Smart From the Ground Up
Integrating Future-Proof Tech in BTR Communities
by Sheri Young
Built-to-rent (BTR) is a rising housing trend and as demand grows, the appeal is obvious — renters want to live in newly built single-family homes with a yard while also enjoying amenities typically only seen in multi-family or condo units.
When designing BTR communities, long-term durability is a key goal. Owners and operators can reduce maintenance costs by installing high-quality, long-lasting materials that withstand the wear and tear of rental living. Features like solid surface countertops, LVP flooring, and other durable finishes help minimize repairs and replacements over time, reducing operational expenses and maximizing the lifespan of the property.
Another way to not only lower maintenance costs but also attract and retain tenants is through the use of smart devices. With a wide range of smart home technology available — including water leak sensors, humidity sensors, smart lighting, and energy management solutions – BTR owners and operators can proactively maintain properties, prevent damage, and enhance the tenant experience with added convenience and security. Smart solutions not only help safeguard assets but also provide tenants with the modern living experience they desire, making your properties more competitive in the rental market. By establishing a comprehensive smart device strategy and integrating technology from the ground up, you can maximize the value of your rental portfolio from day one.
Numerous surveys and reports have indicated that renters not only want smart home technology included in their rental units but are now starting to expect it. In a recent presentation by Parks & Associates, 77% of single-family renters indicated they would like to receive smart home tech from their property manager. Additionally, renters are willing to pay extra (at least $30 more per month) for smart home technology in their rental home (Parks & Associates, Dec 2024).
How Smart Sensing Can Enhance BTR Communities
Smart home tech is not just about doorbell cameras and smart thermostats. Integrating smart home technology during the building phase of a BTR community ensures a seamless installation of sensors or sensor-ready devices throughout homes, while also allowing for more strategic implementation, flexibility, and user configuration and control. Starting smart from the ground up is an efficient way to offer smart home convenience, security, and asset protection (such as moisture control and leak detection).
Installing smart-ready devices in key areas such as bathrooms, the kitchen, and common areas like living rooms or rec rooms will allow for proactive maintenance and tenant-friendly automations such as:
» Automatically controlling humidity and moisture in bathrooms by installing temperature/humidity Inserts into the fan switch. When increases in humidity are detected, the switch will automatically turn on the fan until humidity levels return to normal.
» Remotely monitoring vacant properties when the BTR home is not rented by using video camera Inserts and an intuitive online dashboard. Receive instant alerts of activity in the home to enable a faster response to security incidents such as trespassing.
» Addressing water leaks immediately before they can cause serious damage. Installing Swidget’s water leak sensors in out of sight locations like under sinks or behind dishwashers, will not only immediately alert residents of a water leak but can also turn off power to devices like dishwashers or washing machines to mitigate the amount of water damage that is caused.
Increasing Tenant Stickiness and Reducing Turnover
In the competitive BTR market, smart technology can be the differentiator that sets your home apart, while also enhancing the tenant experience. By outfitting homes with Swidget’s smart-ready devices, BTR owners/operators can provide the ultimate flexibility, allowing renters to personalize their living experiences with the smart sensors that they value most. Whether it is lighting control, USB charging, or automated ventilation, Swidget’s modular approach enables tenants to easily swap or upgrade sensors as their needs change or as technology evolves — without expensive retrofits.
This future-proof design enhances convenience and fosters long-term tenant retention, as renters are more likely to stay in a home that seamlessly adapts to their lifestyle. By offering homes that evolve with the latest smart technologies, operators can reduce turnover rates and associated leasing costs.
Implementation in 5 Easy Steps
While implementing a new smart solution can seem daunting, it does not have to be! Seamlessly integrate Swidget smart technology into your BTR properties in 5 easy steps:
» Plan Smart Capabilities // During the planning phase, identify key areas where built-in smart features, such as leak detection or vacant property monitoring, would add value. Also, consider areas where tenants might want the flexibility to customize their smart capabilities.
» Install Smart-Ready Devices // During construction, install Swidget outlets or switches in all the identified areas. For spaces requiring specific smart capabilities, insert the appropriate smart sensors. By installing modular outlets and switches upfront, properties are instantly equipped for smart capabilities without permanent commitment. Additionally, Swidget smart sensors do not require batteries, lowering maintenance costs and eliminating the hassle of frequent battery replacements.
» Showcase Smart-Ready Homes // When conducting showings or tours, highlight the smart-ready outlets and switches, explaining how tenants can personalize their space with Swidget Inserts. If possible, offer options for tenants to rent or purchase additional smart sensors to enhance their living experience.
» Simplify Tenant Onboarding // Upon move-in, provide tenants with their selected smart sensors and a Swidget quick-start guide to help them easily set up and enjoy their new smart home features.
» Streamline Sensor Management // Upon move-out, collect any provided smart sensors for reuse in future rentals, ensuring ongoing flexibility and cost efficiency for both operators and new tenants.
As the demand for built-to-rent homes continues to rise, building with smart technology in mind presents a significant opportunity for owners and operators to boost revenue, attract and retain new tenants, and keep costs low. Incorporating a modular system like Swidget creates a future-proof living environment that evolves with both tenant needs and the lifespan of the property. Stay ahead of the curve with an intelligent and adaptable smart home strategy that ensures long-term operational success. Learn more at swidget.com.
