Experts Say These Smart Security Upgrades Add the Most Home Value

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If you're going to spend hundreds, even thousands of dollars on home security technology, it's good to know your return on investment, especially if you can get a home value boost out of it.

When it comes to the smart home, security devices are very high on the list of things buyers want: A Security.org study showed that 78% of homebuyers would be willing to pay more for a home that comes with useful smart devices, while a Parks Associates study revealed that households are more concerned with physical security, which has led to an uptick in the security system adoption rate in the 2020s.

Not all home security tech is designed to stay in place. In fact, we've got a whole list of security systems that you can pack in a box and take with you when you're moving. But if you'll be bequeathing home security systems to another buyer, they do have the ability to raise home value or at least make a home easier to sell. That's true for flipping houses, downsizing homes or even getting new tenants in a rental property. Here's how it all works.

How much can security devices increase your home's market price?

We'd love to pull some exact numbers out of a hat, but varying housing markets and constantly shifting prices (or smart home priorities) make that difficult. Consumer Reports estimates that certain kinds of smart home technology can increase home value by 3% to 5%, but data on specific devices like home security cameras isn't readily available and depends on what individual buyers actually want in a house. Vivint has a small study that shows homes with security features can have prices almost $38 more per square foot than homes with no security, but there are a lot of variables at play here, including home types, differing neighborhoods and additional amenities.

The bottom line? Smart security upgrades can make a house easier to sell, and buyers are more likely to choose a smart house than an equal house without smart technology. But the bump in home value is unpredictable and often based on local expectations. Keep in mind there are also proven ways home security can save ongoing home costs for as long as you keep the property.

The best home security technology to improve home value

Home security technology can make a significant difference in a home with just a few devices, making it an easy selling point. These systems tend to have the most impact.

A security system with a sensor set and hub: A full security system that can arm or disarm to protect a home when people are away offers an immediate, obvious advantage to a home. It gets lots of bonus points if the system can integrate with other smart home devices like thermostats, video doorbells and similar gadgets new buyers may want to add. Check out our lists for the best DIY home security systems, overall top security systems and cheap systems. We discuss the third-party options systems like these can support and more important info.

Security cameras (especially with lights): Vivint's study shows that security cameras and lights were the most sought-after security features for Americans. (Interestingly, it also showed preferences vary by state, which can also affect buyer interest.) It's easy to combine these two in the best security cameras with lights and the best cams with floodlights. You can also take a look at the best overall cams, the best 4K cameras and the best home cameras without required subscriptions.

Smart locks: A Nationwide Homeowners survey showed that one of the most commonly recommended security devices by insurance agents is a smart lock. It provides easy front door protection and access management, and many models can work with popular home security systems too. You can unlock it remotely, use fingerprints, share access keys with friends or visitors and plenty more. Take a look at our full list of top smart locks for more details.

Video doorbells: Video doorbells are one of the most popular types of smart home security, offering an eye on visitors and packages while sending you alerts and letting you talk out of the doorbell whenever someone shows up. It's a comprehensive pack in a single device that's usually quite easy to install and has a lot of classic curb appeal to homebuyers looking for safety. Review our guides for the best video doorbells and best cheap doorbells to view options from Google Nest, Arlo, Eufy and many others.

Smart smoke detectors: Insurance agents also frequently recommend a smart smoke detector/carbon monoxide detector/fire alarm for homes. These devices are especially accurate, and some models can even alert you about possible fires even if you aren't home, allowing you to take fast action. Also, they ditch the annoying battery chirps and test requirements, instead using smart alerts about when your detector needs attention. View our list of the best smoke detectors for more information.

What about professional home monitoring and property value?

Professional monitoring services may be able to lower your homeowners insurance, but you can't leave them behind for new owners. That's why they don't really add any home value or make it more likely that a buyer will choose your home. Even brands like ADT with their professional installation and required monitoring contracts still advise you to take your system with you when you move away. For maximum home value, we suggest sticking with a security system that doesn't require a contract and has options that don't include professional monitoring if a buyer doesn't want to pay for it.

Are leftover home security devices safe to use in a new home?

This is an important question. Never use someone's old login or account or expect to transfer your account to new homebuyers. That makes it easy for someone to get unauthorized access to the system. Instead, fully wipe devices before moving out and provide manuals and setup instructions for the new homeowners.

If you're a homebuyer, never use a security device that looks like it's active and hasn't been reset. Instead, perform a full reset to wipe the device and set it up using your own smartphone. You can usually find the model number or other important info on the device itself if you need to look it up.

For an even deeper look at home security, check out our guides on the worst spots to install a security camera, proven tips to deter burglars and expert advice on how thieves are most likely to rob a home.