Smart home features in Philadelphia aren’t just for tech lovers—they’re a major selling point in today’s market. Buyers are searching for smart home upgrades that increase value, and local homeowners are asking real estate agents in Philadelphia how to future-proof their investments. From automated lighting to advanced energy-efficient systems, smart homes are no longer a luxury—they’re an expectation.

In fact, “emerging trends in smart home technology” is among the top-Googled real estate questions of 2025. That means if you’re planning to sell in Philly or the Main Line, knowing which features buyers care about most could give your listing an edge.

What Smart Home Upgrades Buyers Want Most in Philadelphia

Every market has its quirks, but here in Philly, the most sought-after smart home features tend to fit into three categories:

• Energy Efficiency
• Smart thermostats like Nest or Ecobee help control utility bills in Center City condos and suburban Ardmore homes alike.
• Energy-efficient smart appliances and lighting appeal to buyers looking for greener living—and long-term savings.
• Security & Safety
• Video doorbells, smart locks, and connected cameras provide peace of mind in rowhomes or Main Line estates.
• Water leak and CO2 detectors are gaining traction as insurance incentives make them even more valuable.
• Convenience & Automation
• Voice-activated assistants that sync with entertainment, lighting, and climate.
• Automated shades and whole-home hubs that make daily living feel seamless.

For Philly homeowners, these aren’t just fun gadgets—they’re upgrades that can directly increase a property’s value.

Do Smart Features Really Add ROI?

Absolutely—not in every case, but smart upgrades can deliver tangible benefits when aligned with buyer preferences. Nationally, studies show features like smart thermostats can modestly increase resale value—around 4.1%—partly due to lower utility costs and potential tax incentives. Additionally, energy-efficient features—including smart thermostats, lighting, and HVAC systems—enhance a home’s marketability and may help it sell faster.

 
While Philly-specific ROI figures are sparse, local trends strongly favor smart and eco-friendly upgrades. A recent Living in Philly article highlights that buyers—especially in neighborhoods like Fishtown and the Main Line—now expect conveniences such as automated lighting, advanced security, and thermostat control as part of modern home listings. (turn0search6) Likewise, data shows that homes with smart features in Pennsylvania suburbs often sell 3–5% higher than comparable homes lacking them.

Given Philadelphia’s tight market—with median home values up about 6% in 2025 and strong demand for walkable, tech-ready neighborhoods—smart upgrades are not just complementary—they’re increasingly part of what makes a home stand out. 

** Bottom line for Philly sellers:** Smart home enhancements may not guarantee a massive price spike, but they build buyer confidence, support faster sales, and help position homes as move-in ready in a highly competitive local market.

At Fresh Places, we often see buyers in Philly and the Main Line light up when they notice smart upgrades during showings. It’s not just about the tech—it’s about the lifestyle it signals: lower bills, added security, and convenience built right in.

How Real Estate Agents in Philadelphia Market Smart Homes

At Fresh Places, our real estate agents in Philadelphia know smart features are more than just nice-to-have—they’re a way to stand out. Here’s how we highlight them in listings:

• Smart-first marketing language: Using terms like “energy-efficient home upgrades Philly” and “smart home-ready” in descriptions.
• Lifestyle framing: Positioning automation as a way to simplify city living or enhance family safety in the suburbs.
• Highlighting future savings: Showing buyers how a smart thermostat or lighting system translates into long-term utility savings.

We also encourage sellers to check out Fresh Places listings to see how homes with these upgrades are being presented in real time.

Tips for Sellers: Make Your Smart Features Shine

If you’re planning to sell soon, don’t just install smart features—make sure buyers know about them.
Stage with intention: Demonstrate smart lighting, locks, or entertainment during showings.

• Highlight in marketing: List every upgrade (big or small) in your property description.
• Bundle features: Grouping thermostats, locks, and security into a “smart package” makes the value clear.
• Price with confidence: Smart homes can justify a higher list price, especially when upgrades are newer and transferrable.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure where to start, smart thermostats, locks, and security systems are the best “first-step” upgrades for ROI in the Philly market.

Future-Proofing Your Philly or Main Line Home

Smart technology isn’t slowing down. By 2030, everything from HVAC systems to kitchen appliances will be expected to integrate seamlessly. For Philadelphia homeowners, that means one thing: the sooner you add smart home upgrades that increase value, the better positioned you’ll be when it’s time to sell.

Whether you’re in Fishtown, Ardmore, or Wynnewood, the key is simple—think beyond today’s buyer and plan for tomorrow’s demand.

Looking to sell your smart-ready home or curious about which upgrades will make the biggest difference? Connect with our real estate agents in Philadelphia to learn how Fresh Places can help you maximize value.