The Best Smart Home Devices in 2025 - What to Buy and Why

Technology is changing the way we live—and the homes we live in. If you're in Manitoba and thinking about buying, selling, or upgrading, you’ve likely come across the term “smart home” more than once. What exactly does it mean, and is it worth investing in smart home tech here in our province?

Smart home devices are no longer just cool tech—they’re practical tools that make everyday life easier, safer, and more energy-efficient. From adjusting your thermostat with your voice to checking your front door while you're on vacation, smart tech gives you control and peace of mind.

If you’re starting to build your smart home or want to upgrade your current setup, here’s a practical guide to the essential smart home categories and what to look for in each one.

What Is a Smart Home?

A smart home uses technology to automate or remotely control systems like lighting, heating, water, security, and appliances—typically through your phone or voice assistant. 

• A thermostat that adjusts while you're at work

• A doorbell camera that shows who's at your door

• Smart plugs, lighting, locks, or even refrigerators

The goal? Convenience, efficiency, and safety.

Start With a Smart Home Hub

Every smart home needs a hub—usually a smart speaker or smart display—that connects your devices and lets you control them with voice or an app. Depending on whether you’re an Apple, Google, or Amazon's Alexa, your ideal hub may vary.

Look for,

• Compatibility with your smartphone or devices

• Support for Matter (a universal smart home standard)

• Easy setup and user-friendly controls

How to Choose the Right Smart Home Devices

Before you start buying, take a moment to think about how you want your smart home to function.

• Pick a Platform: Stick to one ecosystem (Apple, Google, Alexa) to keep things simple and compatible.

• Check Compatibility: Not all devices work with every platform—always double-check before buying.

• DIY vs. Professional: Some devices are easy to install yourself, while others (like thermostats or wired cameras) may require a pro.

• Know the Hub Needs: Some products require a separate hub, while others connect directly via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

• Automate Smarter: Platforms like IFTTT or built-in routines let your devices work together automatically.

Smart Displays - Visual Control

Smart displays add a touchscreen interface to your smart home. They’re great for managing devices, checking security feeds, or even watching videos and making calls.

Choose displays that,

• Integrate well with your devices

• Offer hands-free voice commands

• Have a user-friendly layout

• Can double as entertainment or kitchen assistants

Why Smart Homes Make Sense 

❄️ 1. Energy Efficiency in Our Climate

Our winters are no joke. Smart thermostats like Nest or ecobee can adjust your heat based on your schedule and outdoor temps—saving you energy and money. Some models even qualify for income based rebates through Efficiency Manitoba.

Smart Thermostats - Efficient Comfort

Smart thermostats help regulate your home’s temperature more efficiently. They learn your habits, adjust automatically, and can be controlled from anywhere.

Top features,

• Learning capabilities or preset schedules

• Compatibility with your HVAC system

• Energy usage reports

• Remote access and app control

• Voice control support

Smart Lights - Set the Mood

Smart bulbs let you schedule lighting, dim the room, or change the color to suit your mood—all from your phone or with voice commands.

Choose lights that,

• Support your smart home platform

• Offer color options if desired

• Can be grouped or automated easily

• Work with or without a separate hub

Smart Plugs - Simple and Smart

Smart plugs turn ordinary devices—like lamps, coffee makers, or space heaters—into smart ones. Just plug them in, and you’re ready to go.

Look for,

• Voice control support

• App-based scheduling

• Energy monitoring (for advanced control)

• Multi-plug strips if you want to control several devices

🔒 2. Smarter Security at Home or Away

Whether you're heading to the lake or heading out for the day, smart home security can help you feel protected.

Popular options include,

• Video doorbells (like Ring or Nest Hello) that record motion and alert you to activity

• Smart locks for keyless entry and remote access

• Window and door sensors, motion detectors, and indoor/outdoor cameras Many systems let you monitor everything right from your phone, making it easier to respond quickly—even if you're on vacation.

Smart Security Cameras - Peace of Mind

Indoor and outdoor cameras let you monitor your home remotely. Whether you're checking in on pets or watching your front yard, smart cameras add a valuable layer of security.

Key features to look for,

• High-definition video

• Motion detection

• Night vision

• App alerts and remote access

• Battery vs. wired options, depending on your setup

Video Doorbells - Know Who’s There

Video doorbells let you see and speak to whoever is at your door—whether you’re home or not.

Features to prioritize,

• Wide-angle video

• Two-way audio

• Motion alerts

• Cloud storage or local recording

• Battery vs. wired installation

Smart Locks - Secure and Convenient

Smart locks give you keyless entry, remote locking/unlocking, and the ability to share access codes with family or guests.

Look for,

• Integration with your smart home system

• Backup access options (like a physical key or keypad)

• Auto-lock and unlock features

• Easy installation on your existing door setup

🎬 3. Home Entertainment That Adapts to You

Smart homes aren’t just practical—they’re fun.

Imagine,

• Voice-controlled TV or music systems (Google Home, Alexa, or Apple HomePod)

• Integrated streaming services in every room

• Smart lighting that sets the mood for movie nights or parties Some setups even sync your lights and sound with what’s on screen. Whether you're hosting friends or relaxing after work, it's all about creating the perfect vibe with a simple voice command or tap on your phone.

Smart Speakers - Control Central

Smart speakers act as your home’s command center. They respond to voice commands, control other devices, and can even play music or answer questions.

What to consider,

• Sound quality if you plan to use it for music

• Integration with your preferred smart home platform

• Size and design for your space

📈 4. Adds Value for Buyers

Many buyers today are actively looking for homes with built-in smart tech. If you're selling, even a few upgrades can help your listing stand out and feel “future-ready.” While it’s not the only factor in a home purchase, smart home features can absolutely tip the scales in your favour, especially if you're competing in a crowded market.

Here’s what I’ve seen buyers care about most,

🔐 Security

Smart doorbells, locks, and security cameras are big draws. Buyers appreciate the added peace of mind, especially in family-oriented or urban neighbourhoods.

💡 Energy Efficiency

Smart thermostats, lighting, and energy monitoring devices appeal to buyers who want to save on utilities—and who are environmentally conscious.

📱 Convenience

Remote control of lights, garage doors, blinds, or appliances? That’s real convenience, and it resonates with younger buyers and tech-savvy professionals.

🏡 Home Value Perception

Even if it’s not a make-or-break factor, smart home tech can make your property feel more modern and move-in ready, which helps justify your price point.

Selling a Smart Home? 

• Create a list of installed smart features

• Reset devices and provide instructions

• Mention upgrades in your listing description

As a REALTOR®, I can highlight these features to tech-savvy buyers and market your home accordingly.

What's Out There for Water Tech?

Smart home water tech is a growing category, and it's especially appealing to buyers who care about efficiency, maintenance, or protecting their investment from water damage. If you're selling, even adding just one or two of these features can be a great talking point.

💧 Smart Leak Detectors

These small devices sit near potential trouble spots (under sinks, behind washing machines, near water heaters) and alert you via app if they detect moisture or leaks. Some can even shut off the water automatically to prevent flooding.

Great for preventing costly water damage, especially in basements or older homes.

🚿 Smart Water Heaters

These allow remote control and monitoring—adjust temperature settings, track energy usage, or even schedule heating times for peak efficiency.

Great for saving on energy bills and extending the life of your water heater.

🚰 Smart Water Monitors

These are installed on your main water line and track usage in real time. They can detect leaks, monitor flow rates, and help conserve water by showing you exactly where it's going.

Great for High-efficiency homes or buyers who want full visibility on water usage.

📲 Smart Sump Pump

A smart sump pump uses Wi-Fi and app connectivity to monitor water levels and pump performance, sending real-time alerts to help prevent flooding.

Great for Remote monitoring via smartphone that sends instant alerts for issues.

🌿 Smart Irrigation Systems

Perfect for lawns and gardens—these systems adjust watering schedules based on weather forecasts, soil moisture, and plant type.

Great for Buyers who want low-maintenance landscaping or are environmentally conscious.

🚽 Smart Fixtures

Some high-tech toilets and faucets include touchless controls, automatic flushing, water-saving settings, or even self-cleaning features.

Great for any home or bathroom upgrade that's purpose is to be environmentally conscious, stand out and save money!

 What’s the Cost?

Smart home devices range in price, but many entry-level upgrades are surprisingly affordable. Many systems are modular, so you can start small and build over time.

Here's an estimate,

• Smart lightbulbs: $10–$50

• Video doorbell: $50–$300

• Smart thermostat: $100–$300

• Smart locks: $60–$500

• Smart speakers or hubs: $50–$1000

Do It Yourself or Hire a Professional?

Most smart devices are plug-and-play and can be set up with an app. If you're going for a full system or wired devices, it might be worth calling in a professional installer.

To install smart technology for lighting and water systems in your home, you’ll want to hire professionals who specialize in home automation or smart home integration.

Always consider privacy and data protection—especially when installing cameras or connected security systems.

Types of experts you can consider,

1. Smart Home Integrator / Home Automation Specialist

Best option for full-system installation and integration.

These are professionals who design and install custom smart home systems, integrating multiple technologies such as,

• Smart lighting 

• Smart water systems 

• Voice assistants (Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit)

• Security systems, thermostats, and more

Choose if you're installing a full-suite smart system or want expert advice on product compatibility.

2. Licensed Electrician (for Smart Lighting)

Ideal if your setup involves wiring or replacing switches and fixtures.

Electricians can,

• Install smart light switches, dimmers, and fixtures.

• Ensure compliance with local electrical codes.

• Work with products like Lutron Caseta, Leviton, or other smart switch brands.

Choose for wiring-heavy installations or if your lights require integration into an electrical panel.

3. Plumber (for Smart Water Systems)

Needed for installations involving plumbing.

They handle,

• Smart leak detection devices 

• Smart shut-off valves

• Water flow sensors

• Smart irrigation controllers 

Choose if you’re installing devices that connect directly to your home’s water lines or irrigation.

4. Handyman or Smart Device Installer

Great for basic installations without heavy wiring or plumbing.

Some devices are DIY-friendly and can be installed by,

• A skilled handyman

• A tech-savvy installer from services like Best Buy’s Geek Squad, TaskRabbit, or Homestars.

Choose for plug-and-play smart bulbs, smart plugs, Wi-Fi-connected devices, or replacing thermostats and doorbells.

✅ Tips Before Hiring

• Ask if they are certified or have experience with your specific brands.

• Make sure they are licensed and insured, especially for electrical and plumbing work.

• Request a consultation to assess your home’s compatibility and Wi-Fi needs.

Are Smart Homes Worth It?

Yes—if you invest in the right devices for your lifestyle.

Smart homes can,

• Save you money on utilities

• Make your home more secure

• Simplify daily routines

• Add comfort and convenience

• Boost your home’s appeal to future buyers

You don’t have to buy everything at once. Start with a few smart lights or a speaker, and expand over time. With the right setup, your home can feel more intuitive, responsive, and in tune with your needs.

Smart homes aren’t just for tech lovers—they’re practical, energy-efficient, secure, and a lot of fun. Whether you're upgrading for comfort or adding value before you sell, smart tech is a smart move.

Want to talk about how smart upgrades could improve your home’s value? I’d love to help!

Tara Zacharias | REALTOR®
Helping you buy, sell, or invest in Winnipeg

📞 204-293-033

📧 tara@tarazacharias.com
📍 Real Broker | Winnipeg & surrounding areas