Photo by Andrey Bryzgalov via Shutterstock
We’ve learned to use voice controls in our cars for hands-free calling, but what about in our homes? Alexa, Google Assistant, Echo and Siri are for more than simply using your voice to switch on the lights or control the temperature. Here are more ways to control your home with the sound of your voice.
With a robotic mop or vacuum controlled by your device or remotely from your smartphone, you can wipe up spills or clean up the pet hair while you’re at work.
Appliances plugged into outlets use a surprising amount of power throughout the day. But if your device connects to a smart power strip, you can turn off individual outlets from a distance. That way, the slow cooker starts right on time but doesn’t waste power all day. Or set outlets on a timer so that your bedroom fan turns on just before bedtime, or the television automatically shuts off when it’s time for the kids to go to sleep.
When you’re at home and can get to it, you’ll answer the door. But what if your 9-year-old lost their keys and can’t get in after school. Or you’re in the kitchen kneading bread when your mother-in-law pops over. You can see who’s there or open the door with your smart device and a smart lock on the door. Now, when the package arrives, you can arrange for internal delivery. Let your buddies in without missing the big play. It’s all under your command. You can even lock the door just in case you forgot before you went to bed. Call out and let your voice handle it.
Retrofitting your home to be a smart home can increase its value, so be sure your agent knows all the things your home can do.
Since 1990 I've been happily helping people just like you realize their dream of home ownership, and loving every minute of it! I'm an educator by heart, so you won't feel overwhelmed with the whole process. I'll be there with you every step of the way and more! I've been where you are now more than once and I understand all the emotions and apprehensions that come with a move. If you're relocating, I will make sure you have all the information about neighborhoods, schools and services that are important to you. I am detail oriented and I have a strong background in research. I have my BA in Economics from Lewis & Clark College, and graduate studies in Counseling Psychology at St. Martin's University. I'm a graduate of the Masters Sales Academy for Realtors. I've also been an instructor for new real estate agents. I've been recognized with the National Sales Award "The Dozen" for being in the Top 5% of all Realtors & the local Realtors Thurston County Star Agent Award.
