The Internet of Things and Real Estate

What does the Internet of Things mean for the real estate industry? That’s a good question, especially in light of the growing web of connectivity among people, devices, and even homes. Concerns are mounting that the coming decade may mean security breaches on an enormous scale. That’s where the Internet of Things, or “IoT” (also known as the “Cloud of Things” or “real world web”) comes into play. You might call IoT a movement against our reliance on actual computers, with technological interfaces instead being woven directly into products.
“The next generation is not going to understand computers as separate things,” says technology consultant and author Christina Kerley. She wrote “The Smart Revolution” ebook, the industry’s first-ever look at IoT. “When a lightbulb burns out in their house, they’re going to wonder why it didn’t give them a heads-up.”
Tech experts are calling 2015 the year IoT will start to go mainstream. We’re already seeing that happen; companies are gathering information on us to use in a variety of platforms while devices are connecting with each other and transferring data.
“We are looking at re-instrumenting the physical world, [and] 2015 through 2020 are going to be transformative,” Kerley says.
In this CNET article, “Best Smart Devices of 2015,” you’ll find reviews of the latest and greatest smart home products from smart locks to smart lights. Each month, millions of people come to CNET to read the latest technology news and unbiased product reviews. I think the most familiar smart product for your home is the Nest thermostat, controlled from a smartphone (over time, the device figures out your household’s schedule and adapts to that). Nest settings operated by individual users are integrated with data from institutional hubs like the National Weather Service. That makes the Nest a helpful go-between for consumers and municipal smart grids.
To find out more about the Internet of things and real estate, check out this article in Realtor Magazine, “Real Estate and the Internet of Things.” I would also be happy to discuss the topic with you; just give me a call at 805.886.9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com. I will be happy to show what’s on the market in Santa Barbara, Hope Ranch, Montecito and the other surrounding upscale communities. With more than 25 years in the industry, I have the experience and knowledge to find you the perfect home!