PropTech Security Trends Real Estate Agents Should Know

 

According to the most recent stats, property crimes account for 83% of all crimes in the United States. With new technologies and methods of communication, real estate agents need to stay informed about technologies designed for home security. This allows them to advise sellers on solutions that can preserve the value of their investment and buyers on measures that can provide a safer living environment.

 

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Obviously, real estate agents should also be aware of physical security trends. Installing CCTV cameras on the premises and using window locks or smart doorbells with video security are just some of the ways property owners can protect their investments from theft or vandalism. Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important too. As the number of home and personal devices connected to the internet increases, so does the number of attempted data breaches and attacks from malicious digital intruders.

Real estate agents can ensure that their clients' investments are properly protected by staying up-to-date on the latest security trends and investing in the right solutions. Let's analyze some of these trends.

 

Integrating Cybersecurity and Physical Security

Physical security and cybersecurity for real estate properties are increasingly managed in an integrated and coordinated way. This is especially true for large complexes and high-end homes.

 

Physical security solutions include:

  • cameras to monitor both the exterior and the interior of the property
  • access control systems, such as turnstile doors and access badges
  • motion sensors that detect when someone is on-site
  • door locks that work in tandem with cameras and access control systems.

 

Examples of cybersecurity solutions are:

  • firewalls to restrict unauthorized access to the property's wireless networks
  • encryption protocols to secure data transfers between devices
  • password managers for enhanced authentication security.
  • anti-virus software to protect against malware and other malicious intruders

 

Ways to integrate these two types of solutions include combining door locks with sophisticated encryption protocols so that only approved people can unlock them, using access control systems with two-factor authentication, reinforcing the protection of the property's WI-FI network so that it is virtually impossible for ill-intentioned individuals to access mobile and computer apps used for physical security purposes.

 

Touchless Security Measures for Improved Hygiene

The recent COVID-19 pandemic reminded us of the ever-present danger bacteria, viruses and other invisible pathogens pose to our health. This contributed to the trend towards home security measures that minimize contact with objects while keeping the property safe from intruders and other malicious entities. Touchless and hygiene-based security are becoming increasingly widespread these days.

Here are some tips on implementing touchless and hygiene-based security in your real estate properties.

  • Install automatic door opener systems. They feature sensors or motion detectors to open and close doors, eliminating contact with surfaces that could be harboring germs or bacteria. They can even be controlled remotely with your smartphone.
  • Use a video intercom system for visitors at your front door. This solution allows residents to communicate with visitors without having to open the door. These systems can also be equipped with facial recognition technology to ensure unauthorized individuals cannot access the house without direct permission from authorized users.
  • Consider installing an infrared access control system at all entrances to your home. These systems are used to recognize authorized users and grant them access without requiring any contact with surfaces or objects.
  • Add air filtration systems in your home's interior spaces to reduce allergens and airborne contaminants that could pose a health risk.
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Turn Your Property into a Smart Building

Smart buildings are an increasingly popular trend in both residential and commercial real estate. They feature connected and automated systems that enable owners to remotely monitor and control various aspects of the property. Here are some common features of smart buildings:

  • automated window shades for energy conservation purposes
  • lighting, climate and security system controls accessible via smartphone or tablet
  • sensors to detect temperature changes, humidity levels, water leaks and water damage and CO2 levels.
  • AI-powered assistants that can help occupants manage their homes from a distance
  • keyless entry systems that grant access to authorized individuals without physical contact

Smart buildings provide numerous benefits in terms of efficiency, savings, and improved security. Connecting multiple systems to one network allows owners to monitor energy consumption and make adjustments accordingly. Increased automation reduces the need for manual operations, minimizing costs and energy wastage. Moreover, increased device integration significantly improves the property's security.