You may have heard about how homes are becoming "smarter" with connected devices such as smart thermostats, connected kitchen appliances and face-recognizing doorbells. You might even use a few of these products yourself. But did you know that these devices could help you sell your home?

According to information technology resource CITEworld.com, home automation will be the No. 2 trend in residential remodeling over the next five to 10 years (No. 1 is energy efficiency). Not only is technology improving and becoming more affordable, but younger generations who will be moving into homeownership will want and expect these smart features in their homes.

"Smart technology is a way for a home to be differentiated," says Andrew Brooks of home automation company SmartThings. "We've heard stories about buyers walking in and the lights go on, music begins playing, and things respond to and around the guest as he's walking through the house. It's a very high-impact part of the sell."

In fact, vendors of consumer electronics are counting on the importance of connectivity to future buyers. The Consumer Electronics Association has developed a TechHome Rating System to provide nationwide guidelines that define the level and capabilities of the structured wiring installed in a home. This rating will allow sellers and real estate professionals to adjust the value of a home based on the amount of technology that's built into the property.

While not in wide use yet, vendors believe the rating system will become popular as younger, more connected generations start buying their first homes.