One of the most common questions in our industry — and one of the least understood. Here’s how Cinergy member firms help clients budget with confidence.
For a new build or major renovation, a useful starting point is to budget home technology as a percentage of the overall construction cost. The right number depends on how integrated and future-ready the home needs to be — but the framework keeps expectations realistic from day one.
The figures below are industry rules of thumb that Cinergy member firms refine with real benchmarking data. Use them to frame the conversation; use our calculator for a tailored estimate.
Reliable networking, distributed audio, and the foundations done right. The non-negotiables of a connected home.
Whole-home AV, lighting control, motorized shades, and a unified experience across every room.
Dedicated theaters, wellness and circadian lighting, advanced security, and fully integrated luxury living.
A useful starting point is to budget home technology as a percentage of the overall construction cost: about 4% for essential systems, 8% for an elevated whole-home experience, and 15% or more for a fully bespoke luxury installation.
A complete home technology budget typically covers networking and infrastructure, audio and video, lighting control, motorized shades, security and surveillance, and climate and energy — designed to work together as one system.
Budgeting as a percentage of overall construction cost keeps expectations realistic from day one and scales with how integrated and future-ready the home needs to be. Cinergy Certified firms refine these rules of thumb with real benchmarking data.
Answer a few questions and get an estimated home technology budget range in seconds.
