Page 40 - Green Builder May-June 2017 Issue

HOUSING THE MANY
These smart products

SEVEN offer turnkey

upgrades for rentals

old and new.

Energy- BY GREEN BUILDER STAFF

“Smart house” technology is rapidly becoming a
sought-after feature for homebuyers, with many
saying that they only want to purchase a house
with such capabilities. While newer rental structures
Saving can hold their own as a suitable alternative to
homeownership, renters and landlords of older
apartment buildings might feel left out of this rush
toward green tech. But SRV Network Inc. Chief
Technology Officer Karl Volkman says there are
Products to an otherwise dated dwelling.
many easily available products that can add luster

Here are some everyday items that bring a high-
tech feel to any multi-family home or apartment.

CREDIT: AUGUST CREDIT: BELKIN

August Smart Lock Belkin Wemo Insight

Renters and landlords can upgrade an existing lock (without
harming the door). Users can use their Android or iOS Smart Plug
smartphones to lock and unlock the door, create virtual keys for Anyone who has ever panicked that someone may have left an
guests, and keep track of who comes and goes. Access can also appliance on (a safety hazard and a possibly big electric expense
be granted for only a few weeks, hours, minutes, or even specific for all concerned) can rest a bit easier, according to Volkman.
dates and times. When done, guest access can be deleted time in Wemo grants control of lights and small appliances from
an instant. anywhere via smartphones, tablets, Nest and Amazon Alexa.

38 GREEN BUILDER May/June 2017 www.greenbuildermedia.com

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