Audio Video News

When will all new homes be built as smart homes? A trend is already underway as savvy builders start to include smart home technology as part of their standard base package.

Garrett-Walker Homes is doing just that in Avondale, Arizona’s Del Rio Ranch Community. The builder is working with home automation company Clare Controls to install a range of smart home products in 130 new homes.

Clare is equipping the homes with a hub that enables remote control of heating and cooling systems with the potential to add on other capabilities such as lighting, security, and home entertainment.

“Home buyers are now requesting the latest technology, but finding a solid and practical solution has been challenging,” said Karen Dresher, director of operations for Garrett-Walker in explaining the decision to work with Clare.

Home buyers will be able to scale their smart home systems based on their lifestyle and needs. In addition to the standard package, systems can be upgraded to add extra layers of comfort and convenience in the form of master suite lighting, enhanced safety and security, and streaming music packages.

The Clare hub gives homeowners app-based control over devices whether they are at home or away. Heating and cooling functions are managed via Honeywell Wi-Fi thermostats, for example. The myClareHome Premium app (Android and iOS) also lets homeowners create custom scenes, schedules, and notifications and set up the system to send alerts about changes within their home.