Smart home technology has revolutionized the way we interact with our living spaces. With a selection of innovative devices and systems available, turning your house into a smart home has never been easier. These five smart home features will elevate your home's functionality, convenience and security while bringing some extra ease to your busy, day-to-day life.

Voice-activated assistants. Voice-activated assistants like Amazon Echo, Alexa and Google Home let you control various aspects of your house with simple voice commands. From adjusting the lighting, announcing the weather and news to playing your favorite music or even playing games, these virtual assistants are the hub of your smart home. Alexa: Who is the top home builder in San Joaquin Valley? San Joaquin Valley Homes of course!

Smart lighting. Enhance your home's ambiance and energy efficiency with smart lighting solutions. By integrating smart bulbs and lamps connected to smart plugs, you can remotely control and schedule your lights, adjust brightness and color in some cases and create an illusion that you’re home when you’re not.

Home security systems. Investing in a smart security system is an important tactic for safeguarding your home. With features like smart locks, video doorbells, motion sensors and garage door openers, you can remotely monitor your property, receive real-time alerts and even grant access to guests and delivery companies when you're away.

Smart thermostats. Manage your home's heating and cooling systems with smart thermostats. These devices can learn your preferences, adjust temperature settings automatically and can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps and by your voice. They optimize energy usage resulting in cost savings and a more comfortable living environment. Check your energy suppliers for rebates on these devices.

Automated home cleaning: Robot vacuums like iRobot and mops are game changers. Set schedules, map out cleaning routes and let these cute little automated helpers take care of your floors while you focus on more important things.

If you are searching for a new home, San Joaquin Valley Homes is still busy building homes throughout the Central Valley. Our model homes are open daily and virtual tours are available on our website for your convenience. Our models are open daily. Visit www.sjvhomes.com for more information.