Adding automation to your home can be a wonderful and exciting process, but the question that looms over everyone’s head is – how much does a home automation solution cost? It is a tricky question, because true luxury home automation will not cost the same as attempting a D.I.Y. home project. The cost will depend on you, so let’s go through some ideas that will help you consider the cost of home automation and if it’s right for you and your home.
How Much Does Whole Home Automation Cost?
According to the HTA Budget Calculator on our website, the price of a whole home automation project in South Florida, for a homeowner with a 5000 sq ft. home, priced at over $2 million, will start at minimum of $100,000 – excluding lighting control and a home theater. This price includes home control, wiring, Wi-Fi/network, security, audio/video and the labor that goes into installing the system. There are multiple reasons behind this cost, so let’s break it down.
- The cost of needing new wiring in an existing home (a retrofit) is substantial, since our team would have to take over a preexisting solution or implement a system in a home that never had smart home technology to begin with. Despite having Bluetooth and wireless capabilities, a home’s technology system is much stronger through a hardwire solution, for a retrofit project this means replacing old wires with new while walls and furniture are already there. This can be messy as holes would need to be cut, attic access, etc. An automated home comes with extensive wiring for home control to reach subsystems, touch panels, TVs, speakers, and other equipment.
- Modern homes with technology systems require and rely on robust network systems, so considering an enterprise-grade solution is crucial for running an effective Whole Home Automation system.
- Audio/Video is important! This price depends on how many TVs you want in your rooms and how you want audio distributed across your home. Will there be outdoor solutions, whole home audio, a connected matrix… there are many questions to ask here before a design can be started.
- Home security, access control and fire detection make us feel safe in our homes. A complete system includes cameras, programming, and quality equipment that is built to last ensuring a long-lasting and comprehensive security system that will be there for you at all times.
A smart home cost will correlate with what you want the automation to do. According to the Home Technology Association, the cost can be about 8% of your home’s value, if you want a high quality, high-functioning system, and a support team that can help you when you need it.
How Do You Calculate Automation Cost?
Calculating the cost of home automation begins with understanding your budget, and what stage your home is in. Is your home being built? Did you buy a home with existing technology in it? Do you want to add technology to your home? There are a few questions to answer when asking yourself about the cost, and we are here to help.
According to the Home Technology Association (HTA), technology budgets typically range from 4% to 8% of a home’s value in major remodels or new builds. This excludes lighting control and home theaters, which can add further investment depending on the level of sophistication.
Earlier in this blog, we mentioned the cost of a home automation project, so let’s continue on with that example. To get a handle on your technology budget, it helps to break down the systems into bite-sized chunks—audio/video, home automation, security, and Wi-Fi networks, among others.
For example, lighting control alone can range from $4 to $7 per square foot, while home theater systems can run anywhere from $50,000 to $1M, depending on your preferences. Wi-Fi and networking are an extremely important aspect to a technology-forward home, considering an enterprise-grade Wi-Fi network is crucial for a true automated solution.
Check out our home automation cost calculator provided by the HTA to help you learn more about the costs that go into your home project. Smart home installation cost does not need to be daunting; we can help lay out the process for you so you can better understand our plan for your system. You will be involved in the entire design process.
The most expensive smart home system is one that is not maintained properly and falls into disrepair. Bad integrators, bad customer service, and faulty technology are reasons why smart home automation can get exorbitantly pricey. Cutting corners during your initial system installation can lead to frustration as home technology touches almost every aspect of daily life. Faulty products, bad wiring setups, shady tech support, and a flaky team can cause you to hate the technology they’ve integrated into your home in the first place.
The point of a home automation system is to enhance your lifestyle, it can anticipate the homeowners’ needs, providing seamless function to all areas. When done wrong it can be a stressful situation to manage as it could affect your entire home depending on the intricacy of the current system.
We recommend a consultative approach to help you balance cost with performance while future-proofing your system. This means we will make it easy to upgrade the system in the future, leaving extra wires in locations, taking detailed notes, and more, so we know that when you’re ready to upgrade we have everything we need.
Don’t underestimate the role that technology plays in your home—well-implemented systems will enhance daily living, while the inverse will cause constant problems and frustration. Our team ensures that your home automation investment meets your needs both now and as technology evolves.
Does Home Automation Increase Home Value?
Yes, home automation can increase a home’s value. Smart home technology is becoming a key feature for buyers, and according to the National Association of Realtors, 77% of surveyed home buyers express interest in tech-enabled homes. Compared to 81% specifically preferring homes with pre-integrated systems. Appraisers often make value adjustments for homes with automated features, helping these properties command higher prices compared to non-tech homes.
Beyond resale value, smart home technology can improve a home’s equity through energy savings. Automated systems such as smart thermostats as well as lighting and shading controls optimize efficiency and reduce utility costs, making the property more attractive and affordable for potential buyers. We believe in providing reliable, well-integrated smart home solutions that add long-term value to your property.
Is Home Automation Really Worth It?
Yes. But like any significant investment, its value depends on thoughtful planning, expert craftsmanship, longevity, and ongoing support. Here’s why smart home automation stands out as a worthwhile investment, particularly when working with professionals like Boca Tech and Automation (BTA):
Home automation systems encompass a wide range of interconnected technologies designed to enhance your home. However, achieving this level of integration and reliability is not something that can be easily added on at the last minute of a home build or renovation.
While architects, interior designers, and builders excel in creating beautiful and functional spaces, their expertise often doesn’t extend into the realm of smart home technology. That’s where specialists like BTA step in. Boca Tech and Automation’s holistic approach ensures that homeowners enjoy a seamless, worry-free experience.
Our White Glove Platinum Service, for example, provides ongoing support, ensuring your system is always up to date and functioning at its best. From remote diagnostics to priority scheduling and proactive updates, homeowners can rest easy knowing their systems are cared for by dedicated experts.
According to industry insights, 61% of architects and builders report that access to reputable automation professionals would encourage them to integrate more smart technology into their designs. However, without a regulated standard for integration companies this can be difficult to achieve, most new automation companies only last 3-5 years.
It’s not about the most popular tech piece on the market; it’s about creating a reliable, long-term solution that enhances your day-to-day life with parts that can communicate together without fault. Working with experts like BTA ensures that the technology enhances life, rather than complicates your living experience. When designed and integrated properly, a smart home system isn’t just an add-on—it’s an essential component of modern living.
In conclusion, the cost of whole home automation is an investment that can significantly enhance your quality of life. While the initial expenses may seem substantial—especially for luxury properties in South Florida—working with an experienced team like ours will ensure that every dollar is well-spent. From wiring to entertainment, each element of your home automation system is meticulously designed to deliver convenience, comfort, and reliability.
By partnering with professionals who understand the intricacies of smart home technology, you are not only future proofing your home but also avoiding the pitfalls of a poorly integrated systems A well-executed solution adds value to your home, both in terms of market appeal and energy savings, while offering an unparalleled living experience.
Home automation is a long-term investment in your property and lifestyle. If you’re ready to take the next step in transforming your home, contact Boca Tech and Automation for a consultation, and discover how our tailored solutions can enhance your day-to-day life.
