The Top 5 Smart Home Upgrades That Add Value to Apartment Buildings

In an increasingly competitive property market, residential building managers and developers are expected to deliver more than just functional living spaces—they must create intelligent, future-ready environments. For property owners and investors, every upgrade should produce measurable benefits: increased rental income, reduced vacancy rates, and enhanced long-term value.  

Smart home technology plays a key role in achieving these outcomes. These innovations go beyond convenience – enhancing energy efficiency, strengthen building security, and streamlining operational control. As demand grows for modern, connected living, smart home upgrades are becoming essential for attracting quality tenants, raising property value, and improving overall resident satisfaction. 

Recent research by JLL highlighted that 90% of occupiers are willing to pay a premium for tech enabled spaces. As demand for smart buildings grows, implementing strategic smart home devices and home automation ideas can give your apartment complex a crucial edge. 

In this article, we explore the top five smart home upgrades that are proven to add value to apartment buildings and how you can prioritise the right investments. 

1. Smart Access Control Systems 

One of the most impactful smart home upgrades for multi-residential buildings is the enhancement of entry and access control. Traditional keys and basic intercom systems are quickly becoming outdated. Today’s tenants expect a higher standard—secure, streamlined access to their homes using modern technology. Whether it’s keyless entry, mobile app integration, or smart intercoms, these solutions offer both convenience and peace of mind. 

Key benefits of smart access control can include: 

• Mobile based entry for residents and guests 

• Integration with visitor management systems 

• Real time access logs and monitoring 

• Reduced costs of replacing lost keys or remotes 

Smart home technology can significantly streamline building operations. Tools such as mobile apps, facial recognition systems, and Bluetooth-enabled door locks offer efficient, secure, and user-friendly solutions for managing access and tenant interactions.  

Learn more about how access technology has evolved in our article, The Evolution of Building Access Systems: From Keycards to Smart Tech. 

2. Smart Climate Control and Energy Management 

Today’s residents are increasingly eco-conscious—and many are willing to pay a premium for sustainable living environments. Smart thermostats and automated energy management systems support these preferences by optimizing energy use across the building. At the same time, they provide residents with greater control over their personal comfort while helping reduce overall utility costs. 

Popular smart home devices for climate control can include: 

• Smart thermostats that learn user preferences 

• Automated HVAC systems linked to occupancy sensors 

• Energy efficient smart lighting controls 

According to Deloitte, smart building technologies that track and optimise energy use are now a top priority for real estate leaders, driving both cost savings and sustainability. 

3. Smart Home Security Systems 

Security continues to be a top priority for both renters and property owners. Integrating advanced smart home security solutions is one of the most effective ways to address this need. These upgrades not only enhance resident peace of mind but also contribute to the overall value and appeal of the building. 

Some essential smart security features could include: 

• Smart video doorbells 

• 24/7 security camera systems with remote monitoring 

• Motion detectors and smart alarms 

• Integrated building wide emergency alerts 

When combined with intuitive building management software, these systems provide peace of mind for residents and operational efficiency for managers.  

Explore more ways to prioritise smart technology in your facility in our guide, What Smart Technology Should You Prioritise in Your Facility?. 

4. Integrated Smart Home Systems 

While individual smart devices offer clear benefits, the most effective smart home systems provide seamless integration across multiple platforms—delivering a more cohesive and elevated living experience. 

Popular systems and features to consider include: 

• Voice-activated assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant 

• Integrated control of lighting, blinds, and entertainment systems 

• Centralised mobile apps for managing all connected home functions 

Fully integrated smart home systems increase the appeal of apartments, positioning them as premium living spaces. Integration also enables automation features like “welcome home” scenes or nighttime routines, enhancing both convenience and comfort in daily life. 

Integrated Technologies Australia highlighted that smart home automation designs provide an unprecedented level of comfort and convenience in Melbourne homes, delivering a personalised and innovative room experience. 

5. High Speed Connectivity and IoT Infrastructure 

Behind every successful smart building is a strong, secure network. High-speed WiFi infrastructure and dependable Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity are no longer optional—they’re essential. These technologies form the backbone of all smart home systems, ensuring reliable performance and a seamless user experience. 

The benefits of strong infrastructure connectivity can include: 

• Smooth operation of smart devices 

• Future proofing for evolving smart home technology 

• Resident satisfaction (and willingness to pay a premium) 

An article from Colliers shows that integrating intelligent technology and IoT into buildings enables the collection of vast amounts of data tracking everything from space usage to energy consumption. Installing advanced fibre connections, 5G support, and building-wide WiFi hotspots will ensure your property is ready for the next wave of innovation. 

How to Prioritise the Right Smart Upgrades 

With a growing range of smart home technologies on the market, choosing the right upgrades for your apartment building requires careful planning. Prioritising features that deliver the most impact—both operationally and financially—can help you future-proof your investment. Here are practical tips to guide your decision-making: 

Start with Security and Access 

• Why it matters: Tenants value safety and convenience, and building owners benefit from fewer lost keys and more efficient property access. 

• How to get started: Install smart locks, video intercoms, and mobile-access systems first. These upgrades are relatively low-cost, easy to implement, and offer quick returns in tenant satisfaction and operational savings. 

Focus on Integration 

• Why it matters: Disconnected devices can complicate operations and frustrate users. Integration creates a seamless, intuitive experience for residents and managers alike. 

• How to get started: Choose platforms that support multiple device types (e.g. lighting, climate, access) and allow centralised control via a single app or hub. Look for open ecosystems over proprietary ones for long-term flexibility. 

Plan for Long-Term Scalability 

• Why it matters: As technology evolves, your building should be able to evolve with it—without needing a full system overhaul. 

• How to get started: Select systems that can expand easily, whether you’re adding more devices, connecting additional units, or upgrading firmware. Prioritise cloud-based solutions and modular systems that grow with demand. 

Partner with Reliable Vendors 

• Why it matters: Not all smart tech is created equal. Partnering with trusted providers ensures better system reliability, ongoing support, and long-term ROI. 

• How to get started: Work with vendors known for responsive customer service, clear documentation, and regular software updates. Check for industry certifications and client references before committing. 

For more insights on rolling out smarter systems, visit our blog on Introducing Smarter Systems to Buildings. 

Conclusion: Future-Proofing Your Apartment Building with Technology 

Adopting smart home technology is more than just a way to modernise your property—it’s a strategic move to future-proof your apartment building. As resident expectations evolve and market demands shift, integrating smart systems becomes essential to staying competitive. From enhanced security features to fully integrated home automation, the right upgrades can elevate the overall tenant experience. 

Whether it’s through improved energy savings, enhanced security, or a more seamless living experience, smart upgrades ensure that your building remains attractive and functional for years to come. 

Ready to transform your property into a cutting edge smart building? 
Book a Demo with MYBOS today and discover how we help building managers deliver smarter, more connected residential experiences. Or, explore how our solutions improve Resident Experience across every touchpoint.