6 Mobile Apps For Today’s Home Owners

From home automation systems that allow you to control lighting, security, and climate with a simple tap on your smartphone, to neighborhood-centric platforms like that foster community engagement and safety, there are countless apps out there that simplify home management. Read on to discover some of the most useful apps for homeowners.

See the light with Philips Hue

Wouldn’t it be great if you could have complete control over the lighting in your home? You can with the Philips Hue lighting system starter kit for around $200. It works with LED bulbs that plug into regular sockets but are wirelessly controlled by a base station that connects to your iPhone or iPad. Once it’s set up and you’ve installed the free smart home app and logged on to their site, you can dim, brighten and even change the color of your bulbs to set the mood. You can also set them to slowly brighten in the morning when it’s time for you to get up, create unique color combinations for dinner parties or choose from existing color themes.

Keep comfortable with Google Nest

The smartly designed Nest thermostat costs around $170, and functions like a regular thermostat that you adjust to your preferred temperature depending on the time of day. It soon recognizes your patterns and adjusts itself automatically to the perfect temperature when you are home and lowers it to save you money when you’re away. Using the Google Home app, you can control your Nest thermostat with your smartphone or tablet via when you’re out of the house.

Connect with Samsung SmartThings

Samsung SmartThings is a versatile home automation platform that brings together a wide array of smart devices into one cohesive system. With the SmartThings app for smart homes, users can effortlessly control and monitor their home environment through the SmartThings app. The platform supports a vast range of compatible devices, including lights, thermostats, security cameras, and door locks, allowing for seamless integration and automation. One of the standout features of this smart home app is the ability to create custom routines, enabling users to automate everyday tasks such as turning off lights when leaving the house or setting the thermostat to an optimal temperature before arriving home.

Go the distance with Tape Measure

The Tape Measure app is a powerful tool that transforms your smartphone into a virtual measuring tape, making it easy to take accurate measurements without the need for physical tools. Using augmented reality (AR) technology, the app allows users to measure distances, lengths, and even the dimensions of objects simply by pointing their phone's camera. This makes it incredibly useful for home improvement projects, furniture shopping, and interior design tasks. The app also supports saving and sharing measurements, which can be handy for collaborating on projects or keeping records for future reference.

Nurture your green thumb with Planta

The Planta app is a must-have for plant enthusiasts and homeowners looking to keep their indoor and outdoor plants healthy and thriving. It offers personalized care schedules based on the specific needs of each plant, including watering, fertilizing, and repotting reminders. The app also features a light meter to ensure your plants are getting the right amount of sunlight, helping you find the perfect spot for each one. Additionally, Planta provides detailed care guides and troubleshooting tips for common plant issues, making it easier for users to address problems promptly. With its plant identification tool, users can quickly learn more about the plants they have or discover new ones to add to their collection.

Tackle home repairs with Frontdoor®

The Frontdoor app revolutionizes home repair and maintenance by offering real-time assistance from experienced professionals via video chat. With Frontdoor, homeowners can video chat with Experts for step-by-step guidance on a variety of issues, ranging from plumbing and electrical problems to HVAC and appliance repairs. The app features a membership plan that includes unlimited video chats for just $25 per year, making it a cost-effective solution for those looking to tackle DIY projects or get professional advice without the need for an in-person visit. In addition to video chats, the app provides access to a network of pre-qualified local contractors for those instances where in-person help is necessary.

Don’t Worry, Be Warranty

These are just a sampling of the many apps that make homeownership more convenient and efficient. From home automation to precise measurements, and plant care assistance to home repair video chats, these tools are transforming the way homeowners manage life. 

A home warranty from American Home Shield is yet another tool in any smart homeowner’s arsenal, covering essential systems and appliances to protect homeowners from unexpected breakdowns and repair costs. Plus, with American Home Shield plans, members can book smart home and tech installation services from HelloTech. These apps, along with an American Home Shield warranty, make homeownership a breeze.

AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.