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Raising the Standard for Smart Homes: Talking With Our Partners at MIProTechs

March 7, 2025

At Norfolk Homes, we believe that a modern home should do so much more than just provide shelter—it should enhance your lifestyle through cutting-edge smart home technology. From safety to functionality, we leave no stone unturned with our smart home features—which is exactly why we partner with MIProTechs, a premier technology and entertainment integrator, to ensure every home we build includes high-performance smart features. We recently spoke with Tim Humphries, Senior Design Specialist at MIProTechs, to gain insight into how smart technology is transforming the homebuying experience and how our partnership raises the standard for new homes in Ann Arbor.

What makes MIProTechs different?

MIProTechs stands out in the industry not only for their advanced home technology solutions—but also for their hands-on, educational approach. As Tim explains, “We never try to SELL a homeowner on anything! Our unique process is second to none, and we pride ourselves on our specific educational approach with each and every homeowner.” This ensures that Norfolk Homes buyers receive expert guidance tailored to their specific needs, helping them make informed decisions about their home’s technology features.

The most popular smart home features in 2025

Smart home technology is evolving rapidly, and homeowners today expect their homes to be designed with the latest advancements. MIProTechs has seen an increase in demand for features that enhance convenience, security and entertainment. Tim shares that some of the most sought-after smart home features in 2025 include:

• Network surveillance for enhanced home security
• Built-in distributed audio (ceiling speakers for whole-home sound)
• Mounted TVs rather than traditional stand-alone setups
• Hide-A-Hose Central Vacuum Systems for effortless cleaning
• Alarm systems for added safety and peace of mind

By having the option to integrate these popular features, Norfolk Homes ensures our buyers enjoy a home that meets the needs of modern living. When you choose our new homes in Ann Arbor, every home comes equipped with essential smart features designed to improve daily life. “Currently, we include a Wi-Fi video doorbell, Wi-Fi thermostat, three Wi-Fi light switches and a Wi-Fi garage door opener,” says Tim. These features provide added security, convenience and energy efficiency—making everyday tasks simpler and more intuitive.

For homeowners looking to expand their smart home capabilities, MIProTechs offers additional upgrades, allowing them to customize their space with even more advanced automation, entertainment and security options.

Seamless connectivity: The importance of pre-wiring for a Wireless Access Point (WAP)

One of the standout smart features included in Norfolk Homes is pre-wiring for a Wireless Access Point (WAP). This enhances home connectivity by ensuring Wi-Fi coverage is strong and reliable throughout the entire home. According to Tim, “The modem/router is located in the basement, so the access point(s) installed enhance the Wi-Fi performance immensely. They are centrally located on the ceilings so that coverage is exceptional.” With Norfolk Homes, homeowners can count on superior connectivity—whether they’re working from home, streaming entertainment or managing smart devices.

Ensuring a seamless smart home experience

One of the key benefits of working with MIProTechs is their Concierge Service, which ensures homeowners have a seamless transition into their new smart home. “We provide each homeowner with a Concierge service to set up all included smart devices, load the apps on their smart devices and give them full instruction on how to use them,” explains Tim. This level of support ensures that homeowners can take full advantage of their home’s smart features without the frustration of troubleshooting on their own.

Energy efficiency & future-proofing your home

In addition to convenience and security, smart home technology plays a significant role in energy efficiency—which is a big priority of ours at Norfolk Homes. One standout feature is the Wi-Fi thermostat, which Tim notes can monitor energy usage on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. “Homeowners can create schedules and remotely control heating and cooling if a schedule wasn’t set,” he explains. This helps homeowners reduce energy waste and lower utility bills while maintaining a comfortable living environment.

For those looking to future-proof their home, Tim recommends pre-wiring for any potential upgrades. “A good balance between wired and wireless technology achieves the best network experience,” he advises. Norfolk Homes ensures that our smart home features are designed with both current and future technology in mind, giving homeowners the flexibility to adapt as their needs evolve.

Norfolk Homes: Elevating smart living in Ann Arbor

With a commitment to innovation and homeowner satisfaction, Norfolk Homes is dedicated to raising the standard for smart home technology here in Ann Arbor. Our valued partnership with MIProTechs ensures that every home we build is designed, engineered and equipped to meet the demands of modern living. Whether it’s enhanced connectivity, top-tier security or energy-saving automation—we’re proud to provide the smart home features that truly make a difference alongside our partners at MIProTechs.

If you’re ready to experience the next level of smart home living in Ann Arbor, explore our communities and new construction homes in Ann Arbor and discover why a Norfolk home is the right choice for you. For more information, contact us today at (734) 336-1912 or fill out our online form.