If you have been waiting to create your own included tech package in your new homes, you are already behind. Many builder companies have created their own branded standard such as Pulte Group, Lennar, D.R. Horton, and Meritage to name a few. It is more important than ever to update and improve your tech strategy.
There is so much to know and learn, you may be asking, “how can I develop a solid tech strategy?” The journey starts with understanding what your customers and clients are looking for in technology. What life stage are they in? What do they like to do? What kind of discretionary funds do they have available? Then work with your manufacturer and trade allies to identify technology that will appeal to your homebuyers.
Here are 6 key areas to develop that can make tech a strong sustainable part of your business.
[From our free Builder’s Guide to Developing a Winning Home Tech Strategy]
- Sales and marketing.
Many tech products require more explanation and, sometimes, demonstration to be successfully sold and marketed. At times, that is more effectively handled by the specialty trades that install the products. Think through what’s required to effectively present and sell, then hand-off to other trades as appropriate. Also, think about how you can leverage standard packages of tech as differentiators to existing homes and new homes lacking tech features.
- Design.
Tech that is designed into homes early looks better, works better and is more profitable for builders and trade partners. Make sure you have processes that secure early homebuyer decision-making on tech and the layers of your design process allow for the spaces, pathways and electrical infrastructure that enable seamless tech implementation.
- Production.
Because, until recently, tech was not a common inclusion in new homebuilding, the routines and cadence of tech specialty contractors at the jobsite are far from standard for most builders. Thus, carefully define these processes for efficiency, over-communicate to your trade subcontractors and make sure they are resourced to comply with your production schedules and requirements.
- Customer orientation, training, and refresh.
Tech features are only as good as the ways in which homeowners use them. For that reason, ensure you design processes with your trade subcontractors that make for strong initial orientation and training as well as post-occupancy refreshes as necessary.
- Post-occupancy service and support.
Most of today’s technology includes the ability to remotely monitor, troubleshoot and manage products, making for more efficient service and support. Be sure to think through how your customers’ tech-rich homes will be serviced and supported for high levels of satisfaction.
- Tech vendor/trade ally identification and evaluation.
Tech isn’t like building materials or design options, such as flooring and cabinetry. It’s strategic. It interacts with homeowners. It takes more explaining to sell. You need a different template to evaluate your tech vendors and subcontractors that goes beyond price, rebates and margins. Think longer term and think partnership when developing your protocols for identifying and evaluating tech suppliers and subs. The ecosystem of trade and strategic allies you should consider include:
- Manufacturers
- Distributors
- Sales and marketing tools
- Sales trainers
- Integrators
- Other contractors
- Service providers
- Consultants
- Tech-savvy architects and designers
Fast track your research by coming to the TecHome Builder Summit in Louisville this August!
Get a pulse on what homebuyers want and need, meet with builder focused vendors, and leave with actionable information that will help you make lucrative strategy and process improvements to sell and deliver tech to your buyers.
Fill out our application for a VIP hosting package that includes flight hotel meals and registration making your visit virtually cost free
