How to make your dumb home smarter without spending a fortune
![](https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/9MhDYcBN9rkuPb0jsCnBWw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTU4MQ--/https://o.aolcdn.com/hss/storage/midas/2c227e46e47889771e88515cc1010ede/200476036/tuna-hue-630-10.gif)
If you go all out connecting your house, you can end up spending as much upgrading a smart home as it costs to build a dumb one. But you don't need a ton of proprietary gear to pimp your crib with 21st-century tech. Your smartphone and tablet already serve to consolidate your digital life, and they can do the same with your lights, power outlets, air conditioning and nanny cam -- even your door locks and Crock-Pot can be app-controlled, if you so please. Join us below to explore affordable options for your entire home, all of which can be installed yourself.