CES 2026 made it clear that smart home technology has entered a new phase. The focus has shifted away from novelty and toward design, reliability and practical use cases, all of which apply to the real estate industry.
Here are the smart home trends from CES 2026 that real estate agents should pay attention to.
Smart Locks as a Core Property Access Tool
Smart locks were one of the most relevant categories for real estate professionals this year, particularly as access control becomes more flexible and more design conscious.
Kwikset introduced newer, more modern smart lock designs that remain easy to install. For the high-end sector of the industry, this change means sellers are more apt to leave the lock in place, and buyers won’t see it as an eyesore. These locks support Matter, work across major platforms and still include Kwikset’s SmartKey feature, which allows agents or owners to rekey locks quickly between occupants.
Lockly stood out for a different reason. Its tap-based access system allows users to unlock doors without relying on internet connectivity at the property. This is especially valuable for new construction, rental properties and short-term rentals where Wi-Fi may not yet be installed or reliable. The system also delivers information like community details, house rules or welcome instructions. This opens the door to smoother self-guided tours and guest access.
Lockin showcased advanced mortise-style smart locks—a lock in which the latch and deadbolt are combined into a single unit—designed for doors commonly found in condos and multifamily buildings. These locks integrate biometric access, cameras and even wireless charging, eliminating battery maintenance. While a premium investment, they offer a glimpse into the future of access control in urban and higher-density housing.
Why it matters: Smart locks are no longer just a convenience feature. They are becoming an operational tool for agents, builders and property managers.
One Ecosystem Is Better Than Five Apps
Another clear trend was the push toward simplified ecosystems. Brands like Govee, Eufy and others highlighted platforms where lighting, security and automation work together rather than as isolated gadgets.
Many of these systems are being built to work more seamlessly across platforms and to function reliably even when internet connections are unstable. The result is technology that feels less like something homeowners have to manage and more like something that simply works. For buyers and renters, that lowers the barrier to adoption. For agents, it reduces friction during showings and cuts down on avoidable issues.
Eufy leaned heavily into devices that combine multiple functions such as doorbells with built-in cameras and lighting, while keeping processing local and pricing accessible.
Why it matters: Buyers are more likely to embrace smart features when they are easy to understand and do not come with ongoing fees.
AI Sensors Quietly Improve Comfort and Protection
Some of the most practical innovations were not flashy at all. CES 2026 showed how AI-powered sensors are improving comfort, energy efficiency and property protection in subtle ways.
Lutron expanded its smart shade lineup with new wood options that feel premium and design-forward, while adding automation that adjusts shades based on sunlight throughout the day. The company also showcased humidity sensors that automatically trigger bathroom fans, reducing moisture buildup without user intervention.
These features do not scream “smart home,” but they quietly improve how a home feels and functions. This can be an advantage during showings and inspections.
Why it matters: Smart features that work in the background enhance livability without overwhelming buyers.
Home Energy Backup Is Becoming a Selling Feature
Whole-home energy solutions are moving out of the luxury category and into the mainstream.
Anker’s Solix system was positioned as a modular, expandable energy platform that supports outages, solar integration and future needs. These systems are becoming smaller, quieter and more user-friendly, making them easier to adopt and easier for agents to explain.
For buyers who work from home or live in outage-prone areas, energy resilience is increasingly part of the buying decision.
Why it matters: Backup power is shifting from “nice to have” to a meaningful differentiator in certain markets.
Smarter Robots Make Homes Easier to Keep Show-Ready
Robot vacuums and mops continue to evolve, with brands like Roborock, Narwal, Dreame and Ecovacs focusing on autonomy rather than just suction power.
Newer models feature better obstacle detection, automated mop cleaning and slimmer designs that clean under furniture more effectively. The result is less manual upkeep and more consistently clean floors.
For sellers, this means less prep before showings. For rental owners, it means easier turnovers and better presentation.
Why it matters: Automation that saves time helps homes stay market-ready with minimal effort.
Robotic Lawn Care Is Addressing Real Pain Points
Robotic mowers were everywhere at CES, but the biggest improvements centered on precision.
Brands like Mammotion, Ecovacs GOAT, Sunseeker and WORX showcased mowers that use LiDAR and vision systems instead of relying solely on GPS. These upgrades improve edge cutting, slope handling and obstacle avoidance, which have been longstanding weaknesses of earlier models.
For homeowners and rental properties, this supports consistent curb appeal without weekly service visits.
Why it matters: Low-maintenance outdoor automation aligns with buyer demand for convenience and lifestyle-driven features.
Wearables Hint at the Future, With Caution
AI-powered wearables like Looki offered a glimpse at how technology may one day assist with note-taking, memory recall and productivity. For agents, this could eventually support better follow-ups and client management.
Privacy concerns remain significant, however. Devices that record audio or video raise legal and ethical questions, particularly in regulated environments like real estate.
Why it matters: Wearables may become useful professional tools, but adoption should be thoughtful and transparent.
CES 2026 showed that smart home technology has matured. Devices are better designed and easier to use. Overall, the tech is more aligned with real-world needs. For real estate professionals, the opportunity is no longer just pointing out that a home is smart, but explaining how that technology reduces friction by saving time and improving everyday living.
The homes that stand out moving forward will not be packed with gadgets. They will be thoughtfully equipped with technology that simply works.
