Connected devices are worth adding where they solve a real problem — scheduling, remote access, or noticing something you would otherwise miss. Compatibility is the part people get wrong, so check it before buying.
Start with scheduling and access
A smart thermostat and a smart lock cover the two things most households want: heating and cooling that follows a schedule, and entry that does not depend on a key of unknown copy count. Thermostats need compatible wiring, and many older systems lack a common wire; locks need the right door bore, backset and thickness.
Monitoring is often the better investment
Leak sensors, a water-monitoring device on the supply line and an indoor air-quality monitor tell you about problems early. During wildfire-smoke periods an air-quality reading helps you decide when to close the house up and run filtration.
Coverage and setup
Older Bay Area homes with lath and plaster or long floor plans often need a mesh Wi-Fi system before any of this works reliably. Sort the network first, then add devices. Keep an inventory of what is installed and the account each device lives under.
Where a professional is needed
Hardwired fixtures, new circuits, main-line water devices and anything touching the HVAC system beyond the thermostat face plate are installation work. Some home projects require specialized training, permits, or a licensed professional. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
Product suggestions
Products mentioned in this article
Informational suggestions only. We do not publish prices, ratings or reviews, and a product is never a substitute for professional work.
Safety and security
New Homeowner EssentialVideo doorbell
A doorbell camera that shows visitors and deliveries from a phone. Some models need existing doorbell wiring; others run on a battery.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Safety and security
New Homeowner EssentialSmart lock
A deadbolt with keypad or app entry, useful when changing access after closing on a home. Measure your existing door bore and backset first.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Safety and security
New Homeowner EssentialOutdoor security cameras
Weather-rated cameras for driveways, side gates and back doors. Check the power source and local storage or subscription requirements.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Preventive maintenance
New Homeowner EssentialSurge protectors
Rated power strips for computers, media equipment and home-office gear. Whole-house protection is electrician work.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Smart-home products
New Homeowner EssentialSmart thermostat
A scheduled, app-controlled thermostat. Confirm compatibility with your system wiring, including whether a common wire is present.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Smart-home products
New Homeowner EssentialSmart plugs
Switched outlets for lamps and seasonal lighting, controllable by app or schedule.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Smart-home products
New Homeowner EssentialSmart lighting
App-controlled bulbs or fixtures with scheduling. Check bulb base type and fixture dimmer compatibility.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Smart-home products
New Homeowner EssentialIndoor air-quality monitor
Tracks particulates and other indoor readings, useful during wildfire-smoke periods.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Smart-home products
New Homeowner EssentialSmart irrigation controller
Adjusts watering schedules using local weather data. Some California water districts publish their own guidance.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Smart-home products
New Homeowner EssentialWi-Fi mesh system
Multiple access points for coverage across larger or older homes with dense walls.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Roofing, electrical, structural, HVAC and anything permit-required or involving gas or main water lines should be handled by a qualified professional — not as a do-it-yourself project. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
Request a Pro MatchKeep reading
Some home projects require specialized training, permits, or a licensed professional. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
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