As homeowners begin to catch on to buzz words like sustainability, energy-efficiency and home automation, along with the processes and technology behind them, custom integrators need to be one step ahead of the demand with their product and service offerings.

Some home builders are already ahead of the game. Meritage Homes is installing energy-efficient home automation packages in every yet-to-be-built home in California through the end of the year. The package includes Clare Controls home automation for security, entertainment and advanced home management.

Meritage Homes aims to design high-performance, affordable new homes that are 100 percent ENERGY STAR certified. 

“Our homes reflect our commitment to environmental protection and sustainability,” says C.R. Herro, VP of energy efficiency and sustainability, Meritage Homes. “By adding smart home technology, we’re creating a new standard in homebuilding that provides better comfort, healthier air, and costs less to own and operate.”

The new homes will be equipped with:

• Clare Controls home automation system controller
• Aprilaire thermostat
• six-month ClareHome Premium Service

Homeowners can also install the ClareHome Premium app, which makes heating and cooling adjustments remotely, creates scenes and schedules, and sends alerts about any changes. 

“We selected Clare to be our technology partner because the manufacturer provides a simple to use, affordable home automation solution that can be readily expanded to include additional features,” says Herro. “We design our homes with features that enhance individual quality of life, and continually adapt to new advancements as you live in it.”

Clare Controls has also installed four interactive Smart Home Display Center kiosks in Meritage Homes Design Centers in Northern and Southern California to help builders take control of the home technology sales process, explain the lifestyle benefits of the technology, and offer upgrade packages to customers.

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