Imagine… A Smarter Home on Whidbey Island

Living on Whidbey Island means slowing down, enjoying the view, and finding joy in the little things—like watching the sunrise over the Sound or cozying up by the fire on a stormy night. But that doesn’t mean our homes can’t be smart. In fact, the right upgrades can make daily life easier, more efficient, and even more connected to the rhythms of island living.

Light That Moves With You

Smart lighting is one of my favorite upgrades because it’s simple, flexible, and actually fun. You can set lights to follow the sun, brighten on gray mornings, or dim in the evening when it’s time to wind down. Imagine walking into your kitchen after a beach walk and having the lights adjust automatically—no need to fumble for switches.

Peace of Mind, Even From Afar

Our properties can be a little more tucked away out here, which is part of the magic—but it’s also why smart security is such a gift. Cameras, motion detectors, and video doorbells let you check in whether you’re across town or off-island. For second-homeowners, this is especially reassuring.

Cozy When You Need It

Temperatures shift quickly on Whidbey—one minute you’re in a sweater, the next the sun is warming everything up. Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust accordingly, keeping your home cozy without wasting energy. And yes, you can change the temperature from your phone before you even get home from the ferry.

Windows, Gardens, and Beyond

Automated shades protect those big view windows from too much afternoon sun. Smart irrigation systems keep your gardens green without overwatering (they adjust for weather, which feels like a miracle on our rainy days). Both save time, money, and resources while keeping your home looking beautiful.

Voice, Appliances, and Energy

Voice assistants may feel like a luxury, but I see them as one more way to simplify life. “Turn on the lights,” “Play some music,” “What’s the ferry schedule?”—done. Smart appliances can do everything from reminding you about groceries to preheating the oven while you’re still out walking the dog. And with energy monitoring systems and solar + battery storage, you’re not just living smarter, you’re living greener—a priority we all share here on Whidbey.

Why It Matters

Island life is all about balance—slowing down to enjoy the view while making smart choices that make daily living easier. From lights that follow the sun to thermostats that know when you need cozy, discover how smart home upgrades can bring more comfort, security, and efficiency to your Whidbey Island home. And as always, I’m here to connect you with the right people and ideas to help make your house feel more like home.

—Amy Gulden