Smart home technology has become a standard feature in many homes. From video doorbells and smart locks to voice assistants and connected thermostats, today’s properties generate far more than convenience. They also generate large amounts of personal data.
For real estate agents, this creates an often-overlooked responsibility in the home-sale process: helping buyers and sellers understand the smart home security risk associated with connected devices.
Why Smart Home Data Matters During a Home Sale
Many homeowners do not realize how much information their devices collect and store. Smart home systems often track occupancy patterns, routines, visitor activity, voice commands, security footage, and device usage history.
These devices may include:
• Smart locks and video doorbells that record access activity and visitor history
• Smart thermostats that track occupancy schedules and daily routines
• Voice assistants that store recordings, searches, and shopping activity
• Security cameras that archive weeks or months of footage
• Smart appliances and Wi-Fi systems that collect usage and connection data
When combined, this information can create a detailed digital profile of how a household lives inside the home.
The Smart Home Security Risk Buyers and Sellers Overlook
Problems can arise when this data remains connected after it is closed.
If smart devices are not properly reset or removed from existing accounts, sellers may unintentionally retain access to cameras, locks, or other connected systems after the buyer moves in. At the same time, buyers could gain access to historical information still associated with the devices.
Beyond privacy concerns, these situations can create security vulnerabilities and liability concerns for everyone involved.
As smart home technology becomes more common, agents are increasingly sought as a source of guidance during the transaction process.
How Real Estate Agents Can Help Protect Clients
Real estate agents are not expected to be cybersecurity experts, but they can play an important role in helping clients think proactively about smart home security before and after closing.
Agents should encourage sellers to:
• Factory reset all smart devices remaining with the property
• Remove devices from connected cloud accounts and mobile apps
• Delete stored data and activity history whenever possible
• Disconnect third-party integrations tied to the home
Buyers should also be encouraged to create new accounts, update passwords, and verify that all devices have been fully transferred or reset before occupancy.
In some cases, certain operational data may still provide value to buyers, such as irrigation schedules or thermostat settings. However, any information intentionally transferred should be documented clearly during the transaction.
Why This Topic Is Becoming More Important
As homes become more connected, digital privacy is becoming part of the broader real estate conversation.
Buyers and sellers are increasingly concerned about cybersecurity, data access, and the protection of their personal information. Agents who understand these risks and help clients navigate them position themselves as trusted advisors who are thinking beyond the transaction itself.
Technology convenience should not come at the expense of security awareness.
Why Education Matters More Than Ever
The modern real estate transaction now involves far more than contracts and negotiations. From smart home technology to evolving privacy concerns, agents who stay informed provide greater value and protection to their clients.
At Fathom Realty, education and professional development remain a top priority. Through ongoing training, technology resources, and agent support, Fathom empowers agents to stay ahead of industry changes and serve clients with confidence.
If you are looking for a brokerage that invests in your growth, education, and long-term success, visit fathomcareers.com to learn how Fathom Realty supports agents at every stage of their career.
