During a panel discussion at Expand North Star 2023, Kashif Ansari, the Co-Founder and Group CEO of the international proptech firm Juwai IQI, offered his insights on smart technology and innovation. 

He shared strategies for Gulf startups to grow quickly and possibly become worth $1 billion.

The post Kashif Ansari: Insights on Smart Technology and Innovation for Startups appeared first on IQI Blog.

In our fast-changing world, where technology shapes our lives, the real estate market is adapting to the rapid rise of smart homes.

These advanced houses are transforming real estate and becoming crucial for both buyers and developers. In this article, we explore how smart homes change the real estate market and the many benefits they offer.

Understanding the Smart Home Revolution

The Smart Home Revolution is a big change in how we think about and use our homes. This change happened because of new technology, especially in home automation, connectivity, and artificial intelligence.

Here, we’ll explore what makes up this revolution and how it affects our everyday lives and the real estate market.

The Transformative Influence of technology in real estate: Smart Homes

The impact of the Smart Home Revolution on the real estate industry is profound and multifaceted. It has disrupted traditional norms and reshaped the way properties are bought, sold, and valued. Here, we’ll delve into the complex details of this impact:

1. Increased Property Values:

Smart homes often command higher prices in the real estate market. This premium pricing is driven by several factors which includes Desirability, Energy Efficiency, Enhanced Security, Futureproofing.

2. Competitive Advantage for Developers:

Developers who incorporate smart home technology into their projects gain a significant competitive edge through Market Appeal, Differentiation, Marketing Advantage and Efficiency and Sustainability.

3. Growing Demand:

The demand for smart homes is on the rise. Several factors contribute to this increasing demand which includes Tech-Savvy Buyers, Remote Control and Monitoring, Security Concerns and Energy Efficiency.

4. Future-Proofing Investments:

Smart homes are viewed as investments that can adapt to changing technologies and lifestyles. This future-proofing quality is attractive to both buyers and investors as they have Adaptability, Resale Value, Appeal to a Wide Range of Buyers.

Unlocking the Advantages of Having a Smart Home

Home automation is a core part of the Smart Home Revolution, offering many benefits that enhance smart homes’ appeal. In this section, we’ll explore its key advantages and how it enhances homeowners’ quality of life.

1. Convenience:

Imagine a home that responds to your every need with a simple voice command or a few taps on your smartphone.

This level of convenience is at the core of the smart home experience. Here’s how it works:

• Voice Commands: With voice-activated assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, homeowners can control a multitude of functions. From adjusting the thermostat to dimming the lights, playing music, or even brewing a cup of coffee, it’s all as simple as saying the word.
• Remote Control: Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or simply lounging on the couch, smart home technology allows you to remotely control various aspects of your living environment.
• Customized Automation: Smart homes enable you to create customized automation routines. For instance, you can program your lights to gradually brighten in the morning, your thermostat to adjust before bedtime, or your security system to arm itself when you leave for work.

This unprecedented level of control and automation makes everyday tasks a breeze, enhancing convenience and reducing the stress of daily life.

2. Energy Efficiency:

Smart homes are champions of energy efficiency, with technology designed to optimize energy usage and reduce utility bills:

• Smart Thermostats: These devices learn your temperature preferences and routines, adjusting the temperature automatically for energy savings when you’re away and comfort when you’re home, leading to significant energy savings.
• Smart Lighting: These systems adapt brightness based on natural light and occupancy, automatically turning off lights in unoccupied rooms and following your schedule to cut energy use.
• Energy Monitoring: Many smart systems track real-time energy consumption, helping homeowners pinpoint areas for further energy optimization.
• Environmental Impact: Lowering energy consumption not only saves money but also promotes sustainability by reducing carbon footprints.

3. Cost Savings:

Although smart home technology can be expensive to start with, the money you save in the long run makes it a worthwhile investment.

• Lower Energy Bills: The energy-saving features of smart homes lower your utility bills over time. This money you save can help cover the upfront cost of installing smart devices.
• Reduced Maintenance Costs: Smart home systems often include predictive maintenance, warning about potential appliance or system issues, allowing early repairs and preventing costly breakdowns.

4. Increased Property Values:

The inclusion of smart home features in the real estate market has had a significant impact on property values:

• Buyer Demand: Smart homes are sought after by tech-savvy buyers, selling faster and at higher prices.
• Premium Pricing: Buyers pay more for homes with smart tech, boosting returns for sellers and developers.

Essential Smart Home Innovations for Modern Living

The Smart Home Revolution is about lots of cool features that can turn a regular house into a modern, connected home. In this section, we’ll look at some of the most wanted smart home features that suit different homeowner needs and likes.

1. Voice-Activated Assistants:

Virtual voice-activated assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri have become indispensable fixtures in smart homes. They serve as the digital gatekeepers of your home’s automation, offering a range of functionalities:

• Voice Control: With a simple voice command, you can control various aspects of your home, such as adjusting the thermostat, dimming the lights, locking doors, or playing your favorite music.
• Information Retrieval: These assistants can provide real-time weather updates, news briefs, and answer a multitude of questions, making them valuable additions to daily life.
• Integration: They seamlessly integrate with other smart devices and platforms, allowing for centralized control and coordination.

2. Smart Thermostats:

Smart thermostats are a game-changer for energy efficiency and comfort in the home:

• Learning Capabilities: These devices learn your temperature preferences and daily routines. Over time, they optimize heating and cooling schedules to conserve energy and reduce utility bills while ensuring your home remains at a comfortable temperature.
• Remote Control: You can adjust your thermostat remotely using your smartphone. This feature is particularly valuable for ensuring your home is comfortable when you arrive.
• Energy Reports: Many smart thermostats provide detailed energy consumption reports, helping homeowners identify opportunities for further savings.

3. Lighting Systems:

Smart lighting systems provide incredible control over your home’s illumination.

• Customization: You can create custom lighting scenes to suit various activities and moods. For example, you can set “movie night” lighting or “morning wake-up” lighting.
• Dimming and Color Control: Smart bulbs allow you to adjust brightness levels and even change the color of your lighting to set the desired ambiance.
• Scheduling: Set schedules for your lights to simulate occupancy when you’re away or to wake you up with natural light in the morning.
• Energy Efficiency: Smart lighting systems can automatically adjust brightness based on natural light, reducing energy consumption.

4. Security Systems:

Smart security systems provide homeowners with peace of mind and enhanced protection:

• Real-time Video Monitoring: Many systems include cameras that offer real-time video monitoring, allowing homeowners to keep an eye on their property remotely.
• Remote Access: You can access and control your security system from your smartphone or computer. This includes arming and disarming alarms, locking and unlocking doors, and receiving alerts.
• Alerts and Notifications: Smart security systems can send instant alerts to your device if unusual activity is detected, providing an added layer of security.
• Integration with Other Devices: Security systems often integrate with other smart devices like doorbell cameras and motion sensors, creating a comprehensive security ecosystem.

These key smart home features are shaping modern living, offering convenience, energy savings, customization, and security. As the Smart Home Revolution continues to evolve, expect more innovative features, making smart homes even more appealing and practical.

Embracing the Era of Smart Homes: Strategies for Real Estate Professionals and Developers

As the Smart Home Revolution transforms real estate, industry pros and developers must adapt to stay competitive and meet buyer demands. Key strategies to consider include:

1. Stay Informed: Keeping up-to-date with Smart Home Technologies

In the rapidly evolving world of smart homes, staying informed about the latest technologies and trends is important.

This knowledge equips real estate agents, property managers, and developers with the expertise needed to guide clients effectively and make informed decisions.

Continuous Learning through Tech News and Publications, Attending Industry Conferences and Seminars and gaining Certifications and Training.

2. Incorporate Smart Features into New Constructions

To meet demand for smart homes, developers should integrate smart features into new projects, boosting property appeal and desirability.

Integrating Smart Technology through Consultation with Tech Experts and Customization Options:

3. Educate Clients about the Benefits of Smart Homes

Educating potential buyers about the advantages of smart homes is essential. Many individuals may not be fully aware of the benefits and may need guidance to make informed decisions about implementing smart technology into their living spaces.

Client Education Strategies can involve Informational Workshops, Case Studies and Collaborate with Real Estate Agents.

4. Collaborate with Tech Experts

To navigate the world of smart home technology, it’s a good idea to work with experts who know this field well. Teaming up with these professionals can make things smooth and efficient for clients.

Leveraging Tech Expertise

To navigate the world of smart home technology, it’s a good idea to work with experts who know this field well. Teaming up with these professionals can make things smooth and efficient for clients.

• Consultation Services: Work with tech experts who provide consultation services to assess properties and suggest the right smart home solutions. This gives clients specialized advice that suits their particular needs.
• Installation and Integration: Collaborate with technology companies that specialize in the installation and integration of smart home systems. This ensures that the implementation process is smooth and hassle-free for buyers.
• Ongoing Support: Build connections with tech experts who can offer continuous support and maintenance for smart home systems. This gives buyers peace of mind, knowing they can rely on reliable help whenever they need it.

Conclusion:

The rise of smart homes is a big deal in the ever-changing world of real estate. As technology keeps moving forward quickly, smart homes have become a major and essential trend.

They do more than just make life easier; they also save energy, money, and boost property values.

For real estate pros and developers, getting on board with this trend isn’t just an option; it’s a must to stay competitive in a tech-driven market.

To succeed in this new era, it’s important to stay up to date on the latest smart home tech, include these features in new builds, educate clients about the benefits, and team up with tech experts.

Smart homes are the future, and we’re here to stay!

Are you ready to join a tech-driven team? Your journey starts right here. Join IQI today and secure your spot in this rapidly expanding industry!

The post Transforming Real Estate with Technology: Smart Homes appeared first on IQI Blog.

This is why companies should integrate AI into theirs if they want to reap the most rewards. In fact, even companies that are new to AI can get significant benefits from it. Let’s explore the most significant ways AI can help your business! 

1. Automated work process  

AI is used to automate complicated commercial procedures. For instance, process automation can be quite helpful in a service organization, such as lessening mistakes and data loss, while boosting transparency and speeding up the process.  

Typical procedures that can be automated are invoicing, sales orders, system queries, payroll and many more. This frees up your employees’ time to focus on more valuable work, instead of completing menial tasks. It also provides deeper insights into your business and the prospect of future improvements. 

2. Provide predictive analysis  

Any sector or business that has enough data with AI can enjoy using predictive analytics (PA). It forecasts future trends using statistical algorithms. With PA, it can optimize inventories, enhance delivery times, boost sales, and lower operating costs.  

PA can be utilized in many situations including forecasting revenue and inventory. Your business can get information from various sources to optimize sales by predicting trends and customer demand. Besides, PA can also boost manufacturing output and reduce equipment downtime of your business. Not only that, you can also foresee when maintenance would be necessary by utilizing PA. 

3. Improve customer experience 

Customers are the heart and soul of your business. So, providing excellent customer experience is important for you to flourish in the experience economy. This is where AI comes in to assist in efficiently handling customer demands.  

AI has many applications in improving customer experience, such as automated follow-ups. This is to ensure the voicemails from consumers are swiftly engaged with, and customers are given the right answers to their inquiries. Your business will have a clear understanding of the issue at hand for an even faster resolution.

Whatever your motivation is for exploring AI, it has the ability to alter how your company runs. An open mind and the willingness to seize new chances wherever and whenever they arise are all that is required to get started. Even so, keep in mind that AI is an emerging technology. There will be a lot more soon given the speed of its growth, and it might create some problems in its early stages, but as we develop and allow some room for improvement, we can start seeing remarkable results. 

Discover These Topics and More in Adapt 2022!

A New Age: Unravelling The Future of Metaverse, AI and Digital Assets   

Like what you’re reading? Come and take a look at ADAPT 2022! A virtual conference that aims to educate, innovate and disrupt digital knowledge on emerging technology. 

Join us this December to receive insightful ideas and get ahead in the game with our lineup of esteemed professionals in the industry. 

The post An Open Secret Of Incorporating AI Into Your Business appeared first on IQI Blog.

What Is A Smart Home Automation System?

The word “smart” has recently become a generic term for Innovative technology that has a certain degree of artificiality in Intelligence. The main attributes of smart technology are the ability to acquire information from the surrounding environment. A smart home is connected to the Internet to provide lighting, heating.

A home automation system combines hardware and software via a wireless network to control your home electronics and appliances through one device which could be a smartphone, tablet, or a specific central automation control hub system. These devices can be controlled remotely even when you’re not at home.

A smart home relies on infrastructure — more specifically, cabling. This may include data cabling for internet provision, speaker cabling for audio and coaxial cable for TV, to name but a few.

This cabling needs to be designed and installed properly to ensure the right cabling is introduced in the right places.

How To Build A Smart Home?

Building a smart home is an exciting adventure, a way to add the most up-to-date technology and design a space just for you. Your home is your sanctuary after a long day at work and you want your dreams to come true. Your home houses all the people and property you love.

One way to build a smart home is to buy many components such as sensors, smart light bulbs, security cameras, speakers and connect them all to the hub to communicate with each other through your Smartphone, to be able to communicate with each other.

The first step in a smart home is to plan and figure out what type of smart home you are creating. This is because smart homes have a variety of technologies, ecosystems, and budget requirements. This may sound impossible, but I promise it will be very easy!

Here`s a simple rundown to help you get started on the smart home of your dreams:

Voice-controlled Smart Speaker:

All smart speakers come with a smart assistant, and usually, these speakers also come with an app that acts as a hub of some sort.

You can use the app to register and access other smart home devices, so you can control all your devices with voice commands through the speaker without having to visit individual apps.

Smart Lighting:

Smart bulbs can be used to save energy, help secure your home, turn your basic light switch into a dimmer, or prevent you from being tied down to an inconveniently located switch.

All you have to do is replace the bulbs you already have with smart bulbs. Many smart light bulbs can connect directly to smart speakers through a separate app, but some smart light bulbs require a separate hub, so check the details of each light bulb before purchasing.

Smart Plug:

A smart plug is exactly what you’d think: It’s an adapter that turns your simple appliances into smart appliances. The smart plug uses Wi-Fi to give you control of the device from anywhere, via an app.

Smart Home Security Devices:

Which require a little more effort for installation but they are easier to set up than most traditional security systems, and they go a long way toward providing peace of mind for you and your family.

Examples Of Smart Homes:

Thermostats

The thermostat is a device for detecting temperature changes aimed at keeping the temperature of a closed space substantially constant. They are not just digital thermostats; they are the central hub of your home.

Thermostats and controls allow you to control energy usage, regulate room temperature, turn on lights, and make it easy to control the comfort of your home.

Smart Locks

A smart lock is a keyless device that connects to your home Wi-Fi and can be opened on your Smartphone. Some devices also have a keypad or code. As well as making life easier, a smart lock can also ensure forgetting or losing your keys is no longer an issue. 

Smart Lights 

lighting is an advanced way to illuminate your home. Smart LED bulbs include software that connects to apps, smart home assistants, or other smart accessories, allowing you to automate or remotely control lighting without the need for traditional wall switches. Putting the right light on the right situation is important to our well-being. With smart lighting, you can create a mood and atmosphere.

Choose a light for cooking or working early in the morning, late at night, or at home. Dimming, switch off, switch on, switch from warm light to cold light via remote control or app.

Video Doorbells

Smart video doorbells allow you to see, hear and talk to the traveler at your door whether or not you`re at home, at work, or on the go.

Security Cameras

Security cameras are video cameras that record people’s activities to detect and prevent crime.

Smart Refrigerators

Smart refrigerators are equipped with a touch screen interface and the ability to connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi, providing a number of additional features.

Smart refrigerators have built-in cameras, more flexible cooling options that you can control, and you can use your Smartphone or tablet to interact with the features when you’re away from home.

Some smart refrigerators can also connect to other smart devices in your home. Speakers, smart TVs, even smart dishwashers or smart microwaves.

Smartwatches

A smartwatch is a wearable device that you can wear on your wrist. Like smartphones, they use touch screens, provide apps, and often record

Electric Smoker, Deluxe

Electric smokers are designed to cook meat at a far lower temperature than a standard charcoal grill or gas grill. To get tender textures and smoke flavor, you must prepare for a long cook

Amazon Echo

Amazon introduced the Echo smart speaker in late 2014. It’s a standalone Bluetooth speaker with a “far-field” microphone array that can hear you from a decent distance as well as a Wi-Fi connection to the Amazon cloud.

Smart Pet Care

Pet care can be automated with connected feeders. Houseplants and lawns can be watered by way of connected timers.

Smart Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detectors

A traditional smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are essentially dam devices. Your alerts may be great, but if no one is at home to hear them, what are they doing?

The smart smoke detector also sounds like a local alarm but also sends an alert to your Smartphone (and others who allow contact) if a threat is detected.

How Can I Make My House A Smart Home?

Visualize How You Plan To Use Each Room Consider

how the house will function as a whole, and decide whether you`d like some degree of integration (window blinds connected to the lighting for instance)  If you plan to live in your new home for the foreseeable future, deciding how your changing needs will be met should also shape your plans.

“Consider how your rooms and home might change “Your tech requirements today are going to be different to those in the future; that playroom might become a study or a cinema room, for instance.” Ultimately, your decisions regarding the technology for your smart home will come down to what you hope to achieve and your budget.

There are different smart devices ready to secure and protect your home. You`ll be able to detect motion, smoke and water leaks, etc, and receive alerts when there`s an emergency.

There are a few things everyone will have to do to get the order to get ready for their new-and-improved home appliances and smart devices.

Upgrade Your Wi-Fi

 All smart home devices use the Internet to communicate, so you need to make sure WiFi is strong enough to handle the exchange of information. For large households, you should consider multiple routers.

Do Your Research

 With so many intelligent systems and smart home devices out there, it’s a wise idea to get used to several different options before settling into one.

 Identify your needs

Figure out exactly what you`re looking for from a smart home, and then pick the areas you want to start addressing right now. From there, it`s a cinch to pull from your research the smart home system and smart devices and appliances that will meet your needs.

There`s nothing worse than buying a fancy new gadget only to have it gathering dust in a corner a few weeks later because it`s not really something you need right now, especially a costly one! Some another thing;

Touch Switch;

A beautiful, sleek, and easy design that makes your property stands out backlit buttons make it is easier at night to spot the switches.

 IOS/Android App Control;

Control your lights from anywhere – be it be your bedroom or the other corner of the world. IOS/Android App control any plugged-in device with your phone such as your lamps

Timer Function;

Time your lighting and wake up comfortably Time your garage lights so that they turn on automatically at night Time your lights to turn on and off when you are away on a holiday to prevent thefts

Control All IR devices On Your Phone;

All the remote controls are put together to control the air conditioner, TV, projector, and mood light with the phone. Unrivaled comfort Turn on the air conditioner in the room 10 minutes before arrival from work to keep the room cool on arrival Budget-friendly Turn off the air conditioner after you go to bed and turn on the air conditioner just before you wake up at night to significantly reduce your electricity bill.

Swing Gate And Slide Gate;

our automatic gate motors are compatible with both swing gate motors and sliding gate motors.

Depending On Your Mood;

Change the color of the light to suit your mood.  Party mode with mood lighting Turn your home into a futuristic party venue with the easy-to-install .mood light Works with existing installations, our solution works with existing plumbing and wiring, so no additional wiring is required.

Voice Control For All Devices;

Switch lights, air conditioners, TVs, projectors, and curtains on and off the bed before going to bed with just your voice.

Smart Home Ideas

The idea of ​​a smart home may make you think of George Jetson and his future residence, or perhaps Bill Gates, who spent more than $100 million building a smart home [source: LevRam]. Smart homes and home automation, which once appealed to the tech-savvy or wealthy, are becoming more common.

Today, there are more and more options for creating smart homes, from Alexa-enabled devices to full-fledged cinema rooms, home-wide lighting, heating, and security solutions.

Audio including multi-room audio. You can play music in all “zones” / rooms, or select different music in different zones.

Visual-From a multi-room system that can stream box sets, sports, etc. to various TVs throughout the house, to dedicated cinemas and media rooms

Lighting: Options include a remote control (which can turn on / off or dim the lights across the room or home) and smart lighting that mimics everyday use during the holidays.

HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). As awareness of energy consumption grows, smart heating control becomes more important. The ability to monitor and change the temperature of each room/zone is one way to reduce consumption.

 Numerous security options, including intelligent door entry systems and CCTV. Visualize how you plan to use each room Consider how the house will function as a whole, and decide whether you`d like some degree of integration (window blinds connected to the lighting for instance) If you plan to live in your new home soon, deciding how your changing needs will be met should also shape your plan.

“Consider how your rooms and home might change” Your technical requirements today will be different from those of tomorrow; this game room can become an office or a movie room, for example. Ultimately, your decision about smart home technology will depend on what you hope to achieve and your budget

As a more affordable alternative, do-it-yourself smart home security systems are ideal for homeowners who want to save money by monitoring their homes.

Our favorite DIY option, the SimpliSafe Home Security System, allows you to remotely protect and monitor your home without using bundles or signing long-term contracts. Keep in mind that the DIY system is up to you to take action when the alarm goes off.

Benefits Of Smart Home Automation System

1. Flexibility

your smart homes work to make your life easier and can adapt as your needs change. Many devices are compatible with each other, and your smart home system allows you to easily add or remove devices as you see fit.

Plus designers are finding increasingly innovative and creative ways to incorporate smart technology into home design and decor.

smart home integrators are interior designers who know exactly how to integrate smart technology into your home without sacrificing style. For example, automatic elevators allow you to store your television or speaker system out of sight until it is used.

Smart Mirrors are an amazing new invention straight out of a fairy tale. Smart mirrors appear to be regular mirrors, but once activated, they can update you about your calendar, daily tasks, and what’s new. Smart mirrors can also play music, search the web, and give you beauty tips.

2. Peace of Mind

There is nothing worse than leaving the house and forgetting if you left the stove on. Or maybe you can’t remember if you locked the door. With smart home technology, you can easily check this.

All you have to do is open and check your smart home app on your phone. If you forgot to turn off the oven or close the door, you can easily fix it.

You can also invest in smart carbon monoxide and smoke alarms. Smart smoke detectors also come with lights that are designed to help you see your way out of a smokey room. Your smart smoke detector also communicates with your HVAC system so smoke isn’t circulated into the rest of the house.

The peace of mind smart home installation provides is worth every penny. You can leave the home knowing everything will be safe and sound when you return.

3. More Energy Efficient

Smart homes are more energy-efficient than traditional homes. With smart home technology, you can easily track your energy use by the time of day and room.

You’re also able to control many appliances remotely. Forgot to turn off the hallway light before bed? No problem, just open your smart home app and let it go dark.

You can also control heating and cooling costs with smart home technology. You can set your smart thermostat to an economical temperature when you’re away and program it to be at your preferred temperature when you return. Gone are the days of unnecessarily heating or cooling an empty house.

smart homes also have multiple temperature trackers throughout the house so you can set your temperature more precisely. Traditional thermostats cannot do this or track your energy use over time.

With intelligent technology, you can reduce energy consumption by 3040%. Intelligent house applications can also analyze their energy consumption and make suggestions for more savings. Or you can program your HVAC system to set the thermostat to specific temperatures at different times of the day.

4. Customize Your Home

You can also create an environment for different occasions. For example, ask your smart assistant to set the stage for a romantic evening in the living room. Everything from temperature to lighting to music instantly adjusts to your default settings.

5. Spend Less on Insurance Premiums

Your insurance co Depending on the programs your insurance company offers, there are several ways your smart home can save company may cover some of the costs associated with renovating your home. Some companies offer discounts or discounts on devices from a specific smart device company. You can usually find details about these deals on your insurance company’s website.

Some companies also defray your installation costs. Depending on the company’s program they may cover all or some of the installation fees.

Did you know that smart appliances can actually save your money on your insurance premiums? Some insurance companies offer monthly premium discounts for customers with smart appliances. Since you can control your security system and appliances remotely your home is safer so your premiums are lower.

6. Increase Your Home`s Value

It should come as no surprise that smart home technology increases your home`s value.

Smart home automation is a feature that can set your home apart from others on the market. If you`re not planning on selling anytime soon, it is still a worthwhile investment.

Pretty soon most people will have some form of smart home automation installed in their homes. The smart home feature is just one of many conveniences that homebuyers expect from their home.

7. Convenience

Imagine an already preheated oven or wake up with freshly brewed coffee. With smart home automation, you can make these dreams a reality. One of the biggest benefits of investing in

Smart Home Automation saves time on tedious and repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus your energy on more important things. We all have such a long to-do list, saving your energy and investing in smart home technology.

8. Security

Smart homes also provide you with added security features, such as front door cameras and alarm systems you can control remotely. Smart home security systems enable you to lock your home from work and check your surveillance cameras from your phone.

Most smart security systems also come with automated pathways and outdoor lights. Now you can easily navigate your yard at night, and effectively keep intruders from lurking in the shadows.

Some security systems also have smart doorbells that come equipped with a camera and speaker system. Now you can see and talk to someone before they enter your home. It can also be used to monitor deliveries and unexpected visitors when not at home.

We have real estate professionals who can help you find your dream smart home. Fill in the form below, to get in touch with them.

The post Smart Home Automation System appeared first on IQI Blog.

Property management platforms are software that assist agents and negotiators be more efficient in their workflow. As it’s title suggests, property management platforms serve the primary purpose of ‘managing’ real estate, be it listings, presentations and so on. Now, let’s look into the four BEST property management platforms a negotiator or agent can make use of. 

1. AppFolio

Appfolio is an app that is renowned among landlords with large rental portfolios with a lot of AI-powered features. Not only that, AppFolio also upholds various property types, including private properties, commercial buildings, student housing, and community associations. 

Different highlights of the app include features that allow you to sift through leads, tenant screenings, landlord and renters insurance as well as online payments and tenant debt collections. Appfolio is well-received among tenants and landlords because of it’s intuitive design and excellent service. 

Appfolio comes with a free trial for you to test out. If you’re looking to use it permanently, it starts off with a 400$ onboarding fee, with individual costs pertaining to specific properties, such as: 

• Residential: $1.40/unit/month
• Commercial: $1.50/unit/month
• Student Housing: $1.40/unit/month
• Community Associations: $0.80/unit/month

2. Atlas

IQI Atlas is the ultimate tool for agents. This super app provides a comprehensive overview of all-things a real estate negotiator has to navigate by when at work while also giving them access to local and global project listings. Features of the app include: 

• Personal and sales team information overview 
• Team hierarchy viewing
• Presentation centre for client viewing 
• IQI Drive 
• Payment vouchers viewing 
• IQI Training Academy                       

And many more! IQI Atlas is dedicated in providing an efficient application to ease the process for their registered real estate negotiators. 

3. TurboTenant

Turbo Tenant is an all-in-one, free property management tool that efficiently manages all aspects of property management. Like Appfolio, Turbo Tenant provides a platform for landlords to optimise their properties efficiently. Features include: 

• Rental Application 
• Tenant Screening 
• Lease Agreement 
• Rent Payments 

Turbo tenant is also 100% FREE for landlords! 

4. Buildium

Buildium offers an end-to-end property management platform for property managers to facilitate. Like others on this list, Buildium streamlines the entirety of the property management platform, which breaks down to:

• Accounting 
• Business Operations 
• Leasing 

Buildium also provides data migration, a customised training plan and buildium academy for anyone trying out their software for the first time or if they’re moving from a different property management platform. 

Although the best property management platforms are subjective, we’re always team ATLAS! If you’re looking into joining the real estate world as a property negotiator equipped with a tool that helps you manage your team, commissions, clients and many other prospects—join us!

The post 4 Best Property Management Platforms for RENs! appeared first on IQI Blog.

Now, a lot of appliances are being made ‘smarter’. This means that technology is getting more useful in our everyday lives. In addition to that, there are many reasons people opt for ‘smart’ technologies such as safety and convenience. According to a survey carried out by August Home and Xfinity Home, 63 percent of respondents said family safety was their main motivator for adopting ‘smart’ technology.  

Before we jump in, a Smart Home or Smart Home System is a series of interconnected devices in your household via the internet. Here are 4 benefits of owning one! 

1. Added-Functionality and Customisation

Through the implementation of smart technologies in homes, numerous added functionalities come with it. One of the more prominent features includes a smart temperature setting option. If you live in an area where are there are various seasons, your smart home can optimise a smart temperature feature where it automatically sets the thermostat to balance out with the current season. Even if you don’t live in a place with changing seasons, this aspect of smart homes permits you full customisation. 

In addition to that, smart homes makes use of voice commands. Need to turn on the TV? Just verbally announce it! Need to turn the stove on? Just announce it. The possibilities are abundant! With just a small detection of your voice, you are able to make your home come to life. 

2. Cost Efficient

In the long run, smart homes can actually help you SAVE money. Several appliances and systems can be automated for better cost efficiency with a smart home implementation, like lighting. Moreover, excessive use of lighting can eventually lead to a pretty hefty electric bill.

If you opt to use smart lighting, it can dim, turn off or change the colour of your light bulbs to prioritise energy-saving, which in turn will lead to you saving your money in the grand scheme of things.

3. Refined Security

One of the prime reasons to opt for smart homes is security. Home is where the heart is, and it should also be the safest place for you. A home with smart technology can utilise special security measures to make you feel safer at your house. This way, it doesn’t matter where you are in the world; your home protection is ensured.

Also, with this technology—remote monitoring is made possible, giving homeowners the ability to monitor their home through digital cameras and screens that they set up around their home through their smartphones. 

4. Innovative and Convenient 

Finally, a smart home is an innovative development for the future of housing. Furthermore, with so many aspects of our life carried out within the tips of our fingers, from commerce to e-hailing, they enter the fray as one of the newest convenience technology.

Key Differences Between Smart Homes and Normal Homes

Looking to make a ‘smart’ investment? At IQI Global, our global team are more than happy to assist you find the perfect investment for YOU! Contact us today. 

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