Key takeaways
- In 2025, smart building technology is transforming multifamily housing into more connected and efficient communities.
- Centralized ecosystems, AI, and mobile-first tools are setting new standards for both resident experience and property operations.
- Investors and owners benefit from higher retention, stronger NOI, and reduced operating costs when adopting these trends.
- Properties that embrace smart technology today will be better positioned to meet resident expectations and stay competitive tomorrow.
Smart building technology has shifted from a luxury to a necessity in multifamily housing. In 2025, property managers, owners, and developers are embracing tools that make operations more efficient while creating a seamless experience for residents. From AI-powered systems that predict maintenance needs to mobile-first access control that eliminates the hassle of keys, these innovations are shaping how communities are designed, built, and managed.
In this post, you’ll explore the biggest smart building trends in 2025 for multifamily properties and what they mean for the future of your community.
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Video Intercoms
Open doors, gates & garages from anywhere.
QR Code Intercom
Smartphone-based visitor access.
Access Control
Fob, key cards, PINs, and mobile apps.
Security Cameras
Visibility throughout your property.
Vehicle Access
Hands-free access for gates & garages.
Package Room
Receive, store, and manage deliveries.
Smart Locks
Connect to all major brands and models.
Elevator Controls
Unlock key-fobbed elevators for anyone.
Front Desk Station
See all your doors and cameras in one place.
Key smart building trends in 2025 for multifamily properties
Smart building technology is evolving quickly, and multifamily communities are at the forefront of adoption. In 2025, the most impactful trends revolve around creating connected, efficient, and resident-friendly environments. From centralized platforms that simplify operations to mobile-first tools that enhance daily life, these innovations are shaping the way properties function and how residents experience their homes. Below are the key smart building trends to watch in 2025.
The five smart building trends dominating multifamily in 2025 include:
- Centralized ecosystems take center stage
- AI, automation, and data-driven insights
- Mobile-first, touchless resident experiences
- Rethinking staffing with smart visitor management
- Extending access beyond the front door
1. Centralized ecosystems take center stage
Managing a property often means juggling multiple systems: one for access, another for security, and yet another for amenities. In 2025, multifamily communities are shifting toward centralized ecosystems that consolidate these tools in a single dashboard. This not only reduces operating costs but also gives staff a clearer picture of what’s happening across the property.
Solutions such as video intercoms, a property-wide access control system, and a front desk station make it possible to unify entry points, visitor management, and amenity spaces under one platform. For property managers, this means fewer logins and faster responses. For residents, it provides a smoother and more consistent living experience.
2. AI, automation, and data-driven insights
Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming how multifamily properties operate. In 2025, AI is being used to predict maintenance needs, optimize energy consumption, and even improve package management. These technologies help property teams run more efficiently while reducing costs and downtime.
On the security side, connected security cameras provide more than just live footage; they generate actionable insights that make it easier to spot patterns and respond quickly to incidents. By combining automation with real-time data, property managers can shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive decision-making, ultimately creating safer and more reliable communities.
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3. Mobile-first, touchless resident experiences
For today’s renters, a smartphone is more than a communication tool; it’s the key to their lifestyle. In 2025, residents expect to unlock doors, gates, and shared spaces without carrying keys or fobs. Mobile-first, touchless solutions have become the standard for delivering both convenience and security.
Tools like keypads and QR code intercoms make this possible by allowing residents and guests to enter with a simple PIN or scannable code. These features are especially valuable for self-guided tours, guest access, and service provider visits, ensuring that only authorized people can enter while eliminating the hassle of physical credentials.
4. Rethinking staffing with smart visitor management
Multifamily properties have traditionally relied on staffed front desks to greet visitors and manage access. But in 2025, more communities are turning to digital visitor management solutions that reduce the need for constant on-site staffing while still maintaining a high level of service.
The front desk station supports this shift by allowing staff to monitor and manage visitors remotely. This hybrid approach gives residents peace of mind, ensures packages and guests are handled securely, and allows property teams to allocate staff resources more strategically. For communities looking to balance cost savings with resident satisfaction, smart visitor management is becoming an essential trend.
5. Extending access beyond the front door
Smart access doesn’t stop at the lobby. In 2025, residents expect the same seamless experience at garages, parking gates, and other exterior entry points as they do at their front door. Extending access control across the entire property helps create a consistent and convenient experience while also enhancing security.
With vehicle access control, property managers can integrate parking gates into the same system that manages doors and amenities. This ensures residents can enter quickly and securely, while managers gain better visibility into who’s coming and going. By unifying all entry points, communities can deliver a complete access solution that matches modern expectations.
What this means for investors in 2025
For investors, the rise of smart building technology represents more than just a convenience upgrade; it’s a path to stronger returns. Properties equipped with centralized access, automation, and mobile-first solutions are better positioned to attract and retain residents, which directly impacts occupancy rates and long-term profitability.
Smart technology also reduces operating expenses by streamlining workflows, lowering staffing needs, and minimizing maintenance surprises. These savings, combined with the premium residents are willing to pay for modern amenities, contribute to higher net operating income (NOI). In 2025, multifamily properties that adopt smart building trends are increasingly viewed as safer and more resilient investments.
The future of multifamily housing
Looking ahead, multifamily housing is moving toward fully connected communities where technology supports every aspect of daily life. Residents expect a seamless living experience, from unlocking their front door with a smartphone to knowing their deliveries are safe and secure. At the same time, property managers are seeking systems that simplify oversight and reduce operational costs.
Sustainability will also play a larger role in the future of multifamily housing. Smart building technology, paired with AI-driven insights, can help properties cut energy use and meet growing regulatory demands. Together, these trends point to a future where multifamily communities are not only more convenient and secure but also more efficient and environmentally responsible.
2025 smart building trends FAQs
- What is the multifamily construction trend in 2025?
- Is multifamily a good investment in 2025?
- What is the future of multifamily housing?
- What are the projections for multifamily?
What is the multifamily construction trend in 2025?
Construction in 2025 is focused on building smart-ready properties with infrastructure to support IoT, access control, and security systems. Developers are designing with connectivity in mind so that communities can easily adopt the latest technology.
Is multifamily a good investment in 2025?
Yes. Demand for rental housing remains strong, and properties equipped with smart building technology are more attractive to residents. These upgrades improve retention, reduce operating costs, and can increase property value, making multifamily a resilient investment.
What is the future of multifamily housing?
The future of multifamily housing is centered on connected communities. Residents expect mobile-first access, reliable security, and amenities that integrate seamlessly with daily life. Properties that deliver these experiences will stay competitive in the long term.
What are the projections for multifamily?
Industry projections show steady growth in multifamily demand, with smart building technology playing a key role in differentiating properties. Communities that invest in centralized access, automation, and sustainability are expected to perform better than those that lag behind.
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