6 Must-Have Smart Tech Every Rental Property Needs (+ ROI Breakdown)

Technology is no longer a “bonus feature” in rental properties. In 2026, it directly shapes guest expectations, operational efficiency, review quality, and long-term ROI.

It’s becoming increasingly important for investors to optimize their villas with smart features. This helps improve the guest experience and, in turn, increases rental revenue.

So, what smart tech do you need to elevate your rental property? Keep reading to find out.

1. Smart Locks

Smart locks are often the first tech upgrade owners install, but their impact goes far beyond convenience. This technology allows renters to do self check-in easily, without waiting for staff or key handovers.

Keyless entry for vacation rentals is now one of the top-rated guest features for short-term rentals worldwide. It removes waiting time for renters to meet villa staff just to open the door, so guests can arrive and settle in faster (especially important after long flights).

Modern smart locks typically cost around $100–$300 per unit to install, but they often only require a small rent increase of $2–$5 per month to achieve a strong return on investment.

Read More Invest In Bali Guide for Foreigners (PDF E-Book Available)

2. Smart Thermostats and AC Control

Energy leakage is one of the largest silent profit killers in rental properties—especially in warm climate environments like Bali, where air conditioning is used daily.

Smart climate control systems allow owners to:

• Set temperature boundaries
• Turn off AC automatically after checkout, helping control electricity bills remotely
• Balance comfort with cost

The International Energy Agency reports that smart climate systems can reduce cooling energy use by 10–30% without impacting user comfort (which can equal savings of up to $100 per month).

This also makes your rental investment more eco-friendly, which is increasingly important to renters in 2026. Learn more about what people are looking for in a Bali property today here: Bali Travel Trend 2026: New Routes, Demand and Investment Outlook

3. Free Wi-Fi

We found that Wi-Fi complaints are among the top negative review triggers across Airbnb and long-stay platforms in Bali.

Over 35% of travelers now combine work with travel, even for short stays. Remote work has permanently changed renter behavior, and reliable internet is no longer optional.

Some best Wi-Fi setup for rental properties include: adding high-speed fiber connection, use mesh Wi-Fi (not a single router), and ensuring clear coverage in bedrooms and living areas. This way, your villa is more friendly for everyone, especially digital nomad.

4. Exterior Security Cameras

Security technology should protect assets without violating guest trust. Exterior-only cameras help:

• Deter unauthorized parties
• Prevent disputes
• Reduce neighborhood complaints
• Lower insurance risk

Modern video monitoring systems typically cost around $350–$500 per unit per year, including hardware and basic subscription fees. These systems are usually easy to install and commonly used to improve both guest safety and long-term property protection

5. Smart TVs and Digital Guest Comfort

Guests expect the same entertainment experience they have at home, especially for long-term stays. Adding smart TVs is a simple way to keep guests comfortable and entertained.

But it doesn’t have to stop there. Some of our properties at Bali Villa Realty also include extra entertainment features like billiard tables, karaoke rooms, game areas, swimming pools, and sunset lounges—giving guests more ways to relax and enjoy their stay.

6. Smart Lighting

Smart lighting upgrades are relatively low-cost, with smart bulbs starting at around $10 per bulb and smart plugs averaging $25 each.

With this system, you can benefit from lower energy waste, create better nighttime presentation, and remote control during vacancy.

These systems are simple to install without rewiring and are designed to last several years, often delivering strong returns with only a $2–$17 monthly rent increase needed for a healthy ROI.

Why Installing Smart Home Technology in Your Villa is a Good Investment?

Installing smart home technology in rental properties is a smart move because it helps owners earn more, spend less, and increase property value.

One of the fastest wins is higher rental pricing. Research from Rently shows that 65% of renters are willing to pay extra for smart home features. In many cases, rent can increase by $25 to over $100 per unit per month.

Zillow also found that homes with smart features can earn about 4.4% more rent than similar properties without them.

The benefits go beyond just higher rent. Smart features can lower running costs, reduce problems, and improve overall profit. Over time, this leads to better Net Operating Income (NOI) and a healthier investment.

Calculating Your Smart Tech Villa ROI (Example)

Disclaimer: This example is for general information only. Actual costs, rental premiums, and returns in Bali can vary.

While there is an upfront cost, these tech upgrades often pay off faster than many owners expect.

For example, a basic smart setup for a Bali villa may include a smart thermostat or AC controller (around $250), a smart lock (around $200), and a video doorbell or exterior camera (around $150). This puts the total investment at roughly $600 per villa.

In many cases, these features can help support a higher nightly rate or monthly rent—often equal to $30–$50 more per month through better positioning, stronger reviews, and higher guest satisfaction.

Over a year, that can mean an extra $360–$600 in rental income. At that pace, the technology may cover its cost within 1–2 years, while continuing to add value for the rest of the villa’s lifespan.

Conclusion

For modern investors, rental technology isn’t just a nice add-on anymore—it’s a must.

Adding these smart features to your villa helps create a better guest experience and can increase your profits over time.

If you want an easier path, you can simply invest in a villa that already comes with smart technology. At Bali Villa Realty, many of our properties are already equipped with the features we’ve talked about.

You can browse our villas for sale page, or ask one of our senior agents to find the best match based on your needs and goals. Invest smarter and elevate your life with Bali Villa Realty today.

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