Managing Smart Home Technology to Win Residents

Around conference circuits, much time and energy is spent on discussing the merits and values of in-apartment technology upgrades. Nearly every agenda yields a session or two on automation through digital infrastructure. November’s National Multihousing Council OpTech Education & Exposition was no exception. As a panel of seasoned property management and technology veterans touted the value of adding high-tech door locks, thermostat, light controls and other creature comforts, they also offered some sage advice: Don’t be outsmarted by smart home technology devices. “This is an industry that’s in a great deal of flux right now,” said RealPage Vice President Henry Pye. “A lot of people are doing things just because it seems cool.” He and other panelists agreed that multifamily leaders need a measured approach and a lot of thought about how the components operate, whether they meet code compliance and fit in with resident expectations. ‘Smart homes are about a living experience, not gadgets’ Pye was joined by Dwelo Chief Executive Officer Michael Rovito, UDR Director of Building Technology Josh Erosky and Wasatch Chief Operating Officer Jarom Johnson to discuss how to give residents a very cosmopolitan feel with networked digital devices. Digitizing the rudimentary acts of turning on lights, entering apartments and adjusting temperature controls are a shiny marketing tactic for just about any community. Yet tossing an unorganized bundle of technology through the door can spoil what could be an otherwise distinctive experience for renters. “Smart homes are about a living experience not necessarily the gadgets,” Johnson said. “It brings something new to your apartment when it’s interactive with you.” Rovito, whose company offers smart home platforms for the multifamily industry, said properties need to have a connected hub and unified interface that promotes thoughtful interac...