The Ultimate High-and-Low-Tech Gift Guide for Homeowners

Photo by: Sonos.com

First up is the Nest Thermostat. Did you know that almost 50% of your electric bill comes from the thermostat? The Nest Thermostat, however, will learn your home habits and set itself accordingly. That means the heat won’t be blasting while you’re at work, but it’ll be nice and toasty when you get home. All you need is a smartphone and Wi-Fi.

Got a clean freak in the family? We recommend the iRobot Roomba. Just plug it in and set the timer, and this automated vacuum cleaner will run itself every day at the same time. Tight corners, low dressers, carpets and hardwoods are no problem for the Roomba. This little guy can navigate even the trickiest of obstacles. Roomba even puts itself neatly away when the job is done.

Say “so long” to the peephole! With the Doorbot Wi-Fi Enabled Smart Doorbell, you can see who's a'knockin' from anywhere in the world, whether you’re on or off your property. Doorbot sends a video signal to your smartphone to show you just who's there. And it even has night vision, so you're never left in the dark about who's at the door.

Let's talk awesome tunes for a second. Sonos Sound Systems gives any homeowner extraordinary quality sound wirelessly throughout the home. Just purchase the speakers, download the app and let the music flow. You can even listen to different stations in different rooms from the same smart device.

Speaking of music, those who love singing in the shower should look no further than the Kohler Moxie Showerhead and Speaker. This wireless speaker streams your personal music from any Wi-Fi-enabled device. The state-of-the-art showerhead offers a tantalizing 60 angle-spraying radius while you rock out to your favorite tunes.

Is there a battle of the sexes raging in your household bathroom? With the iTouchless Sensor-Controlled Fully-Automated Toilet Seat, leave the dirty work of raising or lowering the toilet seat to a simple wave of your hand. The seat rises and lowers all on its own. That could save a marriage!

For the ultimate in home efficiency, the WeMo Switch and WeMo Motion Kit allows you to turn on and off all your home appliances and electronics remotely. The sensor can also detect movement from up to 10 feet away and wirelessly signals the WeMo-connected device to turn on or off. That includes heaters, TVs, stereos, coffee pots, lights—basically anything with a plug can be controlled any time, anywhere from any smart device.

We’ve talked about smart and efficient high-tech appliances before. These would make great gifts for any homeowner, but these new-to-the-market gadgets should definitely be considered. Now get out there and start shopping for your favorite home-owning gadget geek!

When considering low-tech gift options, an American Home Shield Home Warranty may be just the ticket for efficiency lovers.

Learn how a Home Warranty can keep thier and your budget in control and home running all-year long.