
Smart home technology is making homes more efficient, as well as providing homeowners more control and convenience when it comes to basic home functions. Smart thermostats can help your family's schedule and adjust the temperature automatically to save you money. Smart irrigation saves water over traditional sprinkler systems by integrating real-time weather data to determine when your yard does and doesn't need water. Smart lighting not only shuts off automatically when no one is in the room, it lets you control brightness, color and other factors, to create the ambiance you want - all from your smartphone.

It's a trying time for most of us, when not only are we concerned for our physical health and safety, but also for our economic and emotional health. But at least we have the internet and social media to keep us connected, and happily, there are a number of apps that help you do just that. Here are some of our favorite apps for overcoming social distancing and connecting with friends and family members. Plus, some are also a great way for talking to your real estate agent.