Smart home technology is ever growing from security systems that include video and audio recordings, light bulbs, garage door openers, thermostats, door locks and more.  In knowing how to properly assist sellers and buyers, here are some things to know.

Ask Sellers:

• what devices and systems they have and utilize with their property. 
• which ones will transfer to the buyer and which ones will not.

Let’s say they have a Nest thermostat or an Orbit Smart Irrigation Timer for their sprinkler system. Things that are wired are still considered fixtures legally and are to stay with the home. The seller can take these with them, but they need to replace them, and it is best if they do it ahead of or at the time of listing the property. This will assist buyers in better knowing what they are getting if they are looking for the features when viewing the home.

• Have the seller start compiling information to provide the buyer and help facilitate any transfer of accounts and access.  This may include manuals, app information, company websites and phone numbers.  Be sure they disclose the existence of any on-going contract and monthly payments required.

Once they have the list, it’s time for them to properly fill out a Seller’s Property Disclosure with this information. Plus, it’s a good idea for you to get a copy of the list as you may want to market some of them as property benefits in your selling the home.

Appliances Section

• Line 8 is Range – Gas | Electric, but at the end of the section is Comments, which is a where to note the oven can be controlled by an app.
• Line 13 is Kitchen Refrigerator, another one that may need comments as it is smart enabled and can create your grocery list or place music, for example.

Electrical Section

• Lines 6 thru 8 is for Light Fixtures, Switches/Outlets and Celling Fans
• Line 11 is Doorbell and one may think Ring Doorbell should be noted here, but Ring Doorbells are actually a security system.
• Lines 23 thru 25 address Security Systems and Audio/Video Surveillance Systems.

Water/Sewage Systems

• Line 42 has Underground Sprinkler System and in the Comments for that section, is where it should be noted that there is Orbit or Rachio control panel.

Smart home technology is ever growing, but hopefully this gives you a better idea of how to ensure a smooth transaction and transition from seller to buyer, including how the Seller’s Property Disclosure should be utilized.  It is for the benefit and protection of everyone, including the agents involved in the transaction.

It’s no longer Seller’s just handing over keys at the closing anymore, there may handing over smart home technology.