As technology continues to evolve, homeowners associations (HOAs) are able improve security and increase property values by integrating smart technology into their communities. These upgrades not only help deter crime but also provide peace of mind and can foster a stronger sense of community.
What is Smart Technology?
Smart technology includes devices that connect to the internet and can collect data, interact with other systems, and respond in real time. For security, think devices like smart cameras, locks, sensors, and doorbells. This technology can be controlled through apps and come with features like motion detection or facial recognition.
Why Implement?
Enhancing your community or household with smart technology has proven to reduce crime, bring reassurance to homeowners, and increase property values. Living in a safe neighborhood allows homeowners to focus on what is important – family and community – rather than worrying about safety.
Implementing smart technology in your community areas is the first step, and it can look like:
Smart Cameras
Implementing smart surveillance cameras goes beyond just recording a video. With new AI and facial-recognition technology, alongside night-vision and motion sensors, smart cameras can record faces and easily track movements. Smart cameras can be configured to differentiate between routine movements or potential threats (such as vandalism). They are also useful in non-criminal events, such as animal incidents or weather disasters for insurance purposes.
If installing smart cameras outside your home, ensure that they adhere to the policies stated in the CCRs of your community. Every HOA community is different, and it is important to check before installing.
Smart Locks
Controlling access to shared community spaces can be challenging. With smart locks, you can use your phone to unlock community centers, pools, gyms, and more. The system logs who enters and exits, helping boards manage access and address damages. Additionally, with smart locks, boards can restrict members with outstanding dues or past violations.
On the flip side, homeowners can implement smart locks into their homes to enhance security measures. Smart locks use a variety of measures, including keypads, apps, and facial recognition, meaning you do not need to worry about losing a set of keys to get into your own home! With certain smart locks, you can remotely control who has access to your home, allowing you to let in guests or maintenance workers from afar.
Doorbell Cameras
Have you ever had someone knocking on your door, and you weren’t sure who was there? Have you ever had a package stolen? Nowadays, there is innovative technology that allows you to set up a small camera as a doorbell. These cameras start recording whenever there is motion, someone rings the bell, or whenever you want to hop on the app! There are many different brands of camera doorbells, all with their own pros and cons. They are a great safety tool if you do not want to commit to safety cameras but still want to see who walks through the front door.
The Cost
The price for smart systems can vary. What you are getting, how large the system is, how advanced a system is, and brand name all contribute to the cost. Basic systems may start around the low thousands, while more advanced setups can exceed tens to thousands of dollars. For homeowners, systems are a bit cheaper, since they are smaller scale. Additionally, monthly fees and maintenance are also an added cost.
Implementing smart technology into your HOA community – or home – is an investment in the future. With the added benefits of protection and property values, the initial price seems a little less scary. Safety is a priority for everyone, and even a small implementation is a step in the right direction. For more helpful tips for HOA communities be sure to visit our blog, or contact us today for a free HOA management quote to learn what makes a Spectrum managed community different.
