How tech-savvy is your listing?

[Quincy]

Hello everyone!

Technology has changed the way we do things, especially in our homes. You have devices and apps that have been developed to help users control various technological tools. From turning off devices such as your TV remotely, or controlling the heating and cooling temperatures well before you reach home, technology is making our homes an interesting and innovative space.

I've recently purchased one of Google's Nest Mini devices to create grocery shopping lists, reminders, and soon to control the lights at home. 

But how about your listings, are they tech-savvy? What kind of technology do you use to make your life easier or more efficient in your Airbnb?  

Quincy

[Quincy]

Wow, I didn't know that @Melodie-And-John0! It looks like you're quite the techy person then!

Here I am feeling happy that I have a Google Nest and a Chromecast 😂 

Also, I really like your KISS system—it's genius!

[Melodie-And-John0]

Thanks @Quincy , Ive had my arms wrapped around tech in one way or another for a  long time, now I have to be a little more careful than the Consumer Electronics repair world days cause the tech I work on bites back or radiates if I don't handle it carefully.   

Owning tech and sharing tech are different animals, the sky (and your budget) is the limits when your the user all the time that understands it intimately but sharing with guests or a partner that doesnt love tech can get hairy and possibly bad reviews.  Our Idea of easy is likely not the same as JQ Public/ Partner that never did get that clock set on their VCR much less a timer recording! 

When we moved from < a meg upload and down to almost 4, streaming became possible as long as its not super high resolution and not more than one person is doing it. Our provider has done lots of upgrades that havent yet been hooked up but I do look forward to offering some of the streaming media to guests as soon as I have true high speed internet but for now, Im going to have to stick with the DVR on my dish to get me content I dont have.   Be well, JR

[Debra300]

@Quincy,

I think that your question should be specific to internet reliant technology, because even most of the hosts who say they use minimal technology still use a lot of it, and almost everything needs electricity (and water) to function: lights, kitchen and laundry appliances, subscription TV channels, laptops/PCs, telephones, and heating/cooling, are some the main items that come to mind.  Then many of us use a car (whether it's our own or a support person's) in some manner to service our rentals: pick up supplies, pick up guests, travel to the rental - hosts, property managers, cleaners, gardeners, pool keepers.

We use a fair amount of internet related technology in our listings, but there is a simple workaround for everything if the internet service is out.  

1. Wifi door lock - use the key.
2. Streaming device - watch local over-the-air TV channels via the antenna, or movies stored the USB thumb drive that's plugged into the TV. 
3. Wifi AC/heater controller for mini-split system - use the AC/heater's remote control.
4. Wifi infrared space heater - use the heater's remote control.
5. Ring doorbell - if we're not on site to greet guest, send property manager in our place.
6. Ring alarm - if we're not on site, tell guest to call us or property manager if alarm goes off.
7. Security cameras - if there is an incident on the premises, and we are not on site, ask property manager to review video history, and call authorities if necessary.

[Quincy]

This is very interesting to hear @Debra300! There's quite some tech involved in one's home that you sometimes don't even realise.

You've got everything sorted out quite well I see!

[J-Renato0]

@Quincy 

I have a chromecast and I have been using it since 2015. But only in my home.

 As for tech-savvy I believe Google's Nest is fine. However, I have not bought one.

[Veronica-Of-Excel-Proper0]

Hi @Quincy ,  timely post as many consider how to use tech for more automation and saving time. Although I use technology for business and personal reasons, similar to previous contributors, I too am wary of tech overuse.
The 'always listening' apps is one area, I consider as not useful to me at this time.