5 Biggest Builder Mistakes in Home Automation

1. Improper Pre-wiring

Unbeknownst to most builders, a few runs of Cat 5 and coax just doesn’t cut it as a home automation pre-wire. Without specific technology know-how, electrical contractors often make costly mistakes running low voltage wire: leaving off labels, not running enough or running wire to useless locations. The truth is, it’s nearly impossible to pre-wire a home properly without a home automation design first.

2. No Automation Resource for the Buyer

Homebuyers typically don’t care about the wiring; they just want systems that work. But without expertise in this area, many builders are unable to answer buyer questions or concerns when it comes to automated systems or insufficient wiring. This can leave an otherwise satisfied customer feeling disgruntled.

On the other end of the spectrum, imagine having an automation point person who can not only answer questions and concerns, but can also up-sell the homebuyer across the board. Because ConnectHome dealers are required to be fully knowledgeable about all home systems, they can work with the buyers to incorporate upgraded custom A/V, security, communication systems, environmental systems and more!

3. Lack of Control

Good controls allow homebuyers to control their desired systems with a single remote. Truthfully, this is what the buyer is expecting when they ask for home automation.

Too many builders frustrate buyers and lose sales because they offer a rack of various components, each with their own remote. Nobody wants 5 different remotes anymore. What buyers now demand is an integrated control system which handles all major systems in the home.

4. Lack of Time

It is common for builders to plan insufficient time for home automation and networking. Custom automation projects should be part of the build, not thrown in haphazardly two weeks before drywall. Remember, home automation is a crucial part of the overall home, because its design allows for proper wiring throughout the house. The design specifies how the major systems will be integrated and controlled, so thorough planning is a must.

At the end of a project, home automation installers must test and set devices. Typically the finish work is done after the painting is complete and the cabinets are installed. Once all devices are installed and tested, the homebuyer will need to receive an automation orientation.

When it comes to timing, remember that automation/networking trim out is a whole different ball game than simply mounting cover plates or heating registers. True whole home automation needs its own slot on the schedule.

5. Going It Alone

Builders can certainly set up a basic automation package as part of their standard offerings, but it can be damaging to sell and explain the system to home buyers without fully understanding its capabilities.

Take the technology talk off your plate by letting a home automation and networking expert sell the full range of possibilities for you. ConnectHome affiliated dealers are an ideal choice, because you can have confidence that they have been pre-screened for expertise and consistently high customer service ratings.

The primary lesson to learn from other builders’ mistakes? Partner with a successful, pre-qualified home automation and networking expert through ConnectHome. As a result, you will increase your profits and home buyer satisfaction.

Top 5 Mistakes is based largely on The Mass Market Challenge, which can be read at www.TecHomeBuilder.com.