by Kelly Howe

As we are approaching nearly a decade into the new millennium, and as technology continues to advance, it has brought with it innovation and convenience into our every day lives. As a Builder, we concentrate not only on building a home which demonstrates quality in craftsmanship but also strive to deliver a home that meets the emergent needs of a new home buyer.

The majority of us identify with new technology in the workplace, but as many are learning and experiencing, home owners too can benefit from the convenience and modernization right at their doorstep. Many consumers may not be educated as to certain technology that is available to them which may maximize the efficiency of their home. Home automation is an amazing example of this advancement that is relatively new to the housing market.

Imagine a home that adjusts the air conditioning or heating while you are away or that prepares the temperature for your arrival. A home that detects the sunset and creates a soft light pathway to the bathroom or kitchen at night. A home that may even greet you with tunes from your favorite CD or iPod playlist before you have a chance to set down your keys upon arriving home.

The average family may be unfamiliar with home automation and it may sound intimidating to the majority, but its’ vast capabilities and ease of operation make it a popular option to add to a new or existing home. After the initial set-up is completed, even young children can learn and understand how to use the basic features. Day-to-day events are controlled with one button, such as Day, Night or Away; while more specific activities are menu driven to change temperature, lights, audio and more. Now, imagine that this home can be securely accessed and controlled from anywhere in the world. Even better, imagine that a system like this is affordable and available with your new Cachet home!

Cachet Homes’ newest single family community located in Gilbert Arizona, Carrara Estates, currently has the HAI Home Automation System being demonstrated in its model homes. In fact, the Omni II e system, which is the recommended operating system for most homes and small businesses, comes standard with each home! HAI was formed in 1985 to provide automation products to the newly emerging automation and controls market. The typical cost of a basic HAI home control system ranges from $1-$2 per square foot depending on options. Packages are available to accommodate any size home, attached or detached. A system may be customized to meet the homeowner’s specific needs and is fully upgradeable any time in the future. Some additional upgraded features include touch screens, voice recognition controls, remotes, home theatre controls, motion and vehicle detection, irrigation and pool and spa controls.

SECURITY

A home automation system, also known as domotics, can take place of a standard security system or work with an existing system. It can detect intrusion, smoke and fire, carbon monoxide, water and other hazards through wired and wireless sensors. The system may be personalized to notify a homeowner by the telephone, e-mail, internet surveillance or by central monitoring. Not only can the homeowner initiate contact with their home to check or change the system, the system can actually contact them! You may program your system to call to inform you when your children have arrived home from school or if the alarm has gone off. Also, the system is proven reliable, as back-up battery resources engage during a power loss.

ENERGY MANAGEMENT TOOLS

In addition to the convenience and safety aspects of a home automated system, the homeowner will experience a decrease of utility consumption due to the system’s computer monitored controls which equates to lower monthly bills. By controlling thermostats pre-set by the family’s schedule and activity such as asleep, away, room occupancy and outdoor temperature, the system controls and regulates energy. It is estimated that a home automated system could pay for itself in 2-3 years.

A new homeowner is faced with a variety of options and choices with respect to choosing the home of their dreams. A home with an automated system provides comfort, safety, efficiency and significantly adds value to a home. Please come visit the beautiful Carrara Estates in Gilbert and preview for yourself and learn that dreams can become a reality!