10 Smart Home Features to Consider for Your New Custom Home

Building a custom home gives you an opportunity that is much harder to recreate after construction: planning the home's technology, wiring, controls, and connected systems before the walls are closed.

The best smart home features are not necessarily the most complicated.

A useful smart home should make everyday tasks easier, improve security and comfort, support energy efficiency, and give homeowners flexibility as technology changes.

For homeowners building in Central Texas, that means thinking beyond individual gadgets and planning the underlying infrastructure that allows those systems to work reliably.

In Episode 23 of Home Building Insights: Building With Breven, the Breven Homes team discusses smart technologies worth considering when designing a new custom home and how those features can improve the way you live in the home after move-in.

Quick Answer: What Smart Home Features Should You Consider in a New Build?

Some of the most useful smart home features to consider during a custom home build include:

1. Smart lighting and dimmers
2. Smart thermostats and HVAC controls
3. Smart locks and entry systems
4. Security cameras and video doorbells
5. Smart garage-door controls
6. Whole-home audio
7. Smart shades and window treatments
8. Water-leak detection and automatic shutoff
9. Smart appliances and kitchen technology
10. Strong networking, structured wiring, and future-ready low-voltage infrastructure

The most important decision, however, is not which app or device you buy.

It is making sure the home has the power, wiring, network coverage, equipment locations, and infrastructure needed to support today's technology and future upgrades.

Why Plan Smart Home Technology During Construction?

Many smart devices can be added after you move in.

But some of the most valuable smart-home decisions are much easier and less expensive to make while the home is being designed and built.

Before drywall is installed, your builder and electrical or low-voltage contractors can plan for:

• Ethernet wiring
• Wireless access points
• Camera locations
• Speaker wiring
• Doorbell wiring
• Security sensors
• Smart switches
• Motorized shades
• Equipment closets
• TV and media locations
• Garage controls
• Outdoor technology
• Additional outlets
• Backup power
• Future conduit

Once walls and ceilings are finished, adding some of this infrastructure can require cutting drywall, fishing wires, repainting, or making compromises in equipment placement.

Breven discusses this stage further in Behind the Walls: Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical in Home Construction, where low-voltage planning, internet, cameras, speakers, security systems, and future technology are addressed during the mechanical rough-in phase.

1. Smart Lighting and Dimmers

Smart lighting is one of the most practical home-automation features because homeowners interact with lighting every day.

A smart lighting system can allow you to control lights through:

• Wall switches
• Mobile apps
• Voice commands
• Occupancy sensors
• Timers
• Automated routines
• Preset lighting scenes

For example, a "Good Night" scene might turn off common-area lights, dim hallway lighting, and leave selected exterior lights on.

A "Movie" scene might lower lighting in a media room without requiring several individual switches.

Plan the Physical Controls Too

Do not design a home that depends entirely on a phone.

Visitors, children, service providers, and future homeowners should still be able to operate the lights through intuitive physical controls.

The best system is usually one that makes normal tasks easier without forcing homeowners to open an app every time they enter a room.

2. Smart Thermostats and HVAC Controls

A smart thermostat can provide greater control over heating and cooling while helping homeowners understand and manage energy use.

Depending on the HVAC system, smart controls may provide:

• Remote temperature adjustment
• Scheduling
• Occupancy-based adjustments
• Energy-use information
• Humidity monitoring
• System alerts
• Multi-zone control
• Integration with other home systems

For Central Texas homeowners, HVAC control can be particularly valuable because cooling represents an important part of year-round comfort.

ENERGY STAR explains that certified smart thermostats are designed to provide energy-saving functionality while allowing homeowners to manage heating and cooling more intelligently.

For more information, review the ENERGY STAR guidance on smart thermostats.

Smart Controls Cannot Fix Poor HVAC Design

A sophisticated thermostat cannot compensate for an HVAC system that was poorly sized, installed, or designed.

Smart technology should complement good construction fundamentals, not replace them.

Prioritize:

• Correct HVAC sizing
• Good duct design
• Air sealing
• Insulation
• Proper ventilation
• Humidity management

Then use smart controls to make that well-designed system easier to operate.

3. Smart Locks and Entry Systems

Smart locks can make everyday access more convenient while reducing dependence on physical keys.

Depending on the system, homeowners may be able to:

• Lock or unlock doors remotely
• Create temporary access codes
• Receive entry notifications
• Assign separate codes to family members or service providers
• Check whether a door is locked
• Integrate entry with security routines

Temporary codes can be especially useful for cleaners, house sitters, contractors, guests, or other people who need limited access.

Plan Entry Technology Around Real Life

Before choosing smart locks, consider:

• Battery replacement
• Manual key backup
• Wi-Fi or hub requirements
• Compatibility with the selected door hardware
• Integration with the broader automation system
• Privacy and account security

Convenience should not come at the expense of reliability.

4. Security Cameras and Video Doorbells

Security systems have become one of the most common uses of smart-home technology.

A custom build gives homeowners the opportunity to select camera and doorbell locations before exterior finishes are complete.

Potential locations include:

• Front entry
• Driveway
• Garage
• Side yards
• Rear entrances
• Outdoor living spaces
• Gates
• Detached buildings

Planning those locations during construction can allow for cleaner wiring and better camera positioning than relying entirely on battery-powered devices after move-in.

Wired vs. Wireless Security Devices

Wireless cameras are convenient, but wired or hardwired systems can offer advantages in locations where continuous power and reliable connectivity are important.

Discuss power, network, low-voltage wiring, and mounting locations during design rather than waiting until construction is complete.

5. Smart Garage-Door Controls

The garage is one of the home's most frequently used entry points.

A connected garage-door opener can allow homeowners to:

• Check whether the garage is open or closed
• Close the door remotely
• Receive activity notifications
• Provide temporary access
• Integrate the garage with security routines

This can eliminate the familiar question:

"Did I remember to close the garage door?"

During construction, make sure the garage has appropriate power, Wi-Fi coverage, and compatible opener equipment.

If you plan to install EV charging or other garage technology, discuss those electrical needs at the same time.

6. Whole-Home Audio

Whole-home audio is another feature that is easiest to prepare for while the walls are open.

Homeowners may want speakers in areas such as:

• Kitchen
• Living room
• Primary suite
• Bathroom
• Game room
• Media room
• Patio
• Outdoor kitchen
• Pool area

Prewiring can provide a cleaner installation and reduce dependence on visible power cords or standalone wireless speakers.

Think About Zones, Not Just Speakers

Consider how you actually want to use audio.

You may want different music playing in different parts of the house or the ability to group rooms together for entertaining.

Planning zones, equipment locations, amplifier space, and network connectivity early makes future installation easier.

7. Smart Shades and Automated Window Treatments

Motorized shades can provide more than convenience.

Depending on the home's orientation and glazing, automated shades can help homeowners manage:

• Glare
• Privacy
• Direct sunlight
• Heat gain
• Morning and evening light
• Hard-to-reach windows

They can also be programmed to open and close at specific times.

If motorized shades are being considered, discuss them during electrical planning because some systems benefit from hardwired power.

This is especially useful for large windows or high windows that would otherwise require visible battery packs or frequent battery changes.

8. Smart Water-Leak Detection and Automatic Shutoff

Water damage can become expensive quickly.

Smart leak-detection systems can monitor areas where plumbing failures are more likely to occur, such as:

• Water heaters
• Laundry rooms
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Mechanical rooms
• Refrigerator water lines

Some systems can send alerts when moisture is detected.

More advanced systems may also monitor water flow and automatically shut off the home's supply when abnormal use suggests a major leak.

This is one of the less glamorous smart-home upgrades, but it can provide meaningful protection.

9. Smart Appliances and Kitchen Technology

Smart appliances can add convenience, but this is one area where homeowners should avoid buying technology simply because it is available.

Connected appliances may include:

• Refrigerators
• Ovens
• Ranges
• Dishwashers
• Coffee systems
• Washers
• Dryers

Depending on the product, smart functionality may provide remote monitoring, notifications, diagnostics, scheduling, or integration with other devices.

The important question is:

Will you actually use the feature?

An appliance should first perform its core job well.

Smart functionality should be a useful addition rather than the primary reason for choosing the product.

10. Structured Wiring and a Future-Ready Home Network

This may be the least exciting item on the list, but it may also be the most important.

Almost every smart-home feature depends on reliable connectivity.

A large custom home can quickly overwhelm a single consumer Wi-Fi router placed in a corner of the house.

During construction, plan the home's network as intentionally as the electrical system.

Consider:

• Ethernet wiring
• Ceiling-mounted wireless access points
• Equipment-rack location
• Network switches
• Camera wiring
• TV locations
• Office connections
• Gaming and media areas
• Outdoor Wi-Fi coverage
• Smart-home hubs
• Security equipment
• Backup power for network equipment

Why Hardwired Infrastructure Still Matters

Wi-Fi is convenient, but hardwired connections can reduce network congestion and provide more stable connections for equipment that does not need to move.

Devices such as TVs, access points, security cameras, home offices, and automation controllers may benefit from wired networking.

Even if you do not install every device immediately, running appropriate cable or conduit during construction can make future upgrades significantly easier.

This is why Breven emphasizes technology planning during the custom home building process, particularly before insulation and drywall make wiring changes more disruptive.

Should Every Smart Device Use the Same System?

Not necessarily, but compatibility matters.

A homeowner can easily end up with:

• One app for lighting
• Another for security
• Another for thermostats
• Another for cameras
• Another for the garage
• Another for shades
• Another for audio
• Another for appliances

That can make a supposedly "smart" house feel more complicated rather than more convenient.

Before selecting devices, think about which systems need to work together.

Ask:

• Will these products communicate with one another?
• Can they be controlled from a common platform?
• What happens if the internet goes down?
• Can essential functions still be controlled manually?
• Is the system dependent on a subscription?
• What happens if the manufacturer stops supporting the device?
• Can equipment be replaced without rebuilding the entire system?

Future flexibility is often more valuable than maximum automation.

Should You Install Every Smart Home Feature Available?

No.

More technology does not automatically make a better custom home.

The goal should be to install technology that solves actual problems or improves everyday living.

Prioritize systems that support:

• Convenience
• Security
• Comfort
• Energy management
• Water protection
• Connectivity
• Accessibility
• Future flexibility

Be more cautious with technology that:

• Requires unnecessary complexity
• Depends heavily on subscriptions
• Becomes obsolete quickly
• Cannot operate manually
• Locks the homeowner into one proprietary ecosystem
• Adds significant cost without solving a meaningful problem

Breven's newer guidance on custom home upgrades makes the same broader point: spend first on infrastructure and systems that are difficult or disruptive to change later rather than overspending on technology for technology's sake.

What Smart Home Features Should Be Planned Before Drywall?

Some smart-home features are significantly easier to prepare for before insulation and drywall.

Prioritize early planning for:

Network Infrastructure

• Ethernet
• Wireless access points
• Equipment racks
• Internet service entry

Security

• Cameras
• Doorbell
• Door sensors
• Alarm wiring

Audio and Video

• Speakers
• TVs
• Projectors
• Media rooms

Automated Shades

Provide power where hardwired motors may be used.

Lighting Controls

Coordinate switches, dimmers, sensors, and control locations with the electrician.

Garage Technology

Plan power, networking, door controls, and potential EV charging.

Outdoor Technology

Think about:

• Cameras
• Speakers
• Wi-Fi
• Lighting
• Gates
• Pools
• Outdoor kitchens

Future Conduit

Installing accessible conduit to strategic locations can make future cable upgrades easier even when you do not yet know what technology will eventually be installed.

What Smart Home Features Are Worth the Money?

The best value usually comes from features that homeowners use frequently or that solve an expensive problem.

For many custom homes, high-value smart technology may include:

• Reliable networking
• Smart lighting controls
• Smart thermostats
• Security cameras
• Video doorbells
• Smart locks
• Garage controls
• Leak detection
• Whole-home audio prewire
• Future-ready electrical and low-voltage infrastructure

The exact priorities should depend on the homeowner.

A family that frequently travels may value cameras, smart locks, leak detection, and remote HVAC control.

Someone who entertains frequently may prioritize lighting scenes, audio, outdoor technology, and automated shades.

Someone working from home may prioritize enterprise-quality networking and dedicated wired connections.

Custom means the technology should fit your lifestyle, not a generic checklist.

Questions to Ask Your Builder About Smart Home Technology

Before the electrical and low-voltage plans are finalized, ask:

• Who designs the low-voltage system?
• Where will the internet service enter the house?
• Where will the networking equipment be located?
• How many wireless access points will the home need?
• Which rooms should receive Ethernet?
• Are camera locations prewired?
• Is the video doorbell hardwired?
• Are exterior cameras receiving power and data?
• Where will smart-home hubs be installed?
• Should motorized shades receive power?
• Are speakers being prewired?
• Is outdoor Wi-Fi included?
• Is the garage prepared for smart controls?
• Is EV charging being planned?
• Is whole-home surge protection included?
• Is backup power being considered?
• Can conduit be installed for future technologies?
• Which systems will still work if the internet goes down?

A knowledgeable builder should help coordinate these decisions with the electrician, HVAC contractor, low-voltage contractor, security provider, and other specialists before the walls are closed.

Smart Home Technology and Energy Efficiency

Smart devices can help homeowners operate a home more efficiently, but they should not be confused with energy-efficient construction itself.

A smart thermostat, for example, can help control HVAC operation.

But the home's actual comfort and energy performance also depend on:

• Insulation
• Air sealing
• Windows
• HVAC sizing
• Duct design
• Orientation
• Shading
• Ventilation
• Construction quality

Technology is the control layer.

The underlying building still needs to perform well.

For homeowners interested in the construction side of efficiency, Breven's weatherization and energy tips for custom homes provides additional context on building-envelope and energy decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Home Features

What smart home features should I add when building a new house?

Useful features include smart lighting, thermostats, security cameras, video doorbells, smart locks, garage-door controls, whole-home audio, motorized shades, leak detection, and strong structured networking.

The exact priorities should match your lifestyle and budget.

What smart home features should be wired during construction?

Consider prewiring Ethernet, Wi-Fi access points, cameras, doorbells, speakers, televisions, security equipment, automated shades, and other permanent or high-bandwidth systems before drywall.

Is it better to hardwire smart home devices?

It depends on the device.

Wireless connections are useful for mobile and low-bandwidth devices, while hardwired Ethernet or dedicated low-voltage wiring can provide greater reliability for fixed equipment such as access points, cameras, TVs, and automation controllers.

Are smart thermostats worth installing in a custom home?

For many homeowners, yes.

Smart thermostats can provide remote control, scheduling, usage information, and automation. They work best when paired with a properly designed and installed HVAC system.

Are smart appliances worth the extra money?

Only if the connected functions provide value you will actually use.

Choose appliances primarily for quality, performance, reliability, and serviceability. Treat smart features as an additional benefit.

Should I install smart home technology before or after construction?

Individual devices can often be installed later, but infrastructure such as wiring, conduit, speaker cable, camera wiring, networking, and motorized-shade power is usually easier to install while the home is under construction.

How can I future-proof a smart home?

Focus on infrastructure instead of trying to predict every future gadget.

Install strong networking, Ethernet, accessible equipment locations, additional power, conduit, and flexible low-voltage wiring so future equipment can be added or replaced more easily.

Can a smart home still work if the internet goes down?

That depends on the system.

Some devices retain local or manual functionality while others rely heavily on cloud services.

Ask how essential functions such as lights, locks, thermostats, and security equipment operate during an internet outage before selecting a system.

Build the Infrastructure First, Then Add the Technology

The smartest custom home is not necessarily the home with the most gadgets.

It is the home that was designed to support technology thoughtfully.

A strong network matters.

Well-planned wiring matters.

Proper equipment locations matter.

Manual controls matter.

Compatibility matters.

And the ability to upgrade technology later matters.

When those fundamentals are addressed during design and construction, homeowners can add smart technology without turning the house into a collection of disconnected devices.

If you are planning a custom home in Central Texas, consider your technology needs early in the Breven Homes custom home building process, while wiring, electrical systems, HVAC controls, security equipment, and low-voltage infrastructure can still be coordinated efficiently.