Now more than ever, homeowners are weaving smart technologies into their homes. Whether it’s outdoor cameras, video doorbells or automatic lighting, we’re seeing more and more homebuyers opt for these smart home solutions. With tech at the top of everyone’s minds, we connected with the experts at Alpha Wolf Technology to share what’s trending and what to consider incorporating into your new Empire home in Austin or San Antonio.
Smart homes have become the norm rather than the outlier. “We’re seeing homeowners add lighting, thermostats, and door locks that can be controlled through apps, or Alexa and Siri,” says Robert Motsinger of the Alpha Wolf team. “Many are wiring for alarm capabilities, above and beyond standard offerings. We’ve also seen a growing trend in the number of people who wire for security cameras.”
When selecting options for your new Empire home, there are various tech upgrades to consider. Some of the most popular include:
- Smart home systems that interact with alarms, lights, locks, temperature controls, etc.
- Wireless access points
- Surveillance and doorbell cameras
- Central vacuum systems
- Surround-sound theater systems
- Whole home audio systems and media streamers
As Robert explains, “the goal of adding smart technology into your home is to provide convenience, comfort, and security.” Whether it’s running a hardwired Cat6 drop to a TV to eliminate buffering, streaming your favorite album to home speakers without having to battle with multiple apps and receivers, or setting up lighting, locks and alarms to have full control of all systems with the click of a button, smart technology creates a seamless living experience.
With wireless being pushed as much as it is, and most devices existing on the wireless spectrum, investing in a solid wired infrastructure is one of Alpha Wolf’s most recommended tech upgrades. “Making sure areas such as data, TV and surveillance locations are wired will help reduce lagging and inherent issues that come with loading on the wireless bandwidth,” says Robert.
If budget is a concern, allocate dollars to what’s most important to you, whether that’s home protection or entertainment. In addition to the tech upgrades listed above, consider the following if you have a larger budget:
- Wiring each room for data and television
- Wiring the home for alarm capabilities, including all windows and doors, and cameras
- Wiring speakers for the patio, ensuite, office, and garage
- Wiring living spaces or game rooms for surround sound, creating a theater-like listening experience
- Conduit preparation for future solar panels
- Preparation for future backup generators
- A central vacuum system
About Alpha Wolf x Empire
Alpha Wolf is a full-service low voltage and security integrator who works in collaboration with Empire to bring your vision to fruition. Their team meets with each of Empire’s homeowners in Austin and San Antonio who have a pre-construction home to provide full low-voltage and electrical services. Available throughout the building process for walkthroughs and to answer various questions, their team ensures our homeowners are satisfied from beginning to end. And for Empire’s spec homebuyers, Alpha Wolf is available before and after closing for consultations and additions.
Looking to purchase a home with Empire and interested in learning more about the smart technology upgrades available to you? Visit any of Empire’s model homes in Austin and San Antonio or speak with a representative at Alpha Wolf Technology.
Next, learn more about Empire’s stages of construction in Texas and what you need to know about our homebuying process.