Surveillance in Real Estate: The Growing Use of Smart-Home Technology

Introduction to Smart-Home Surveillance

The adoption of smart-home technology is on the rise. Some home sellers now use cameras and recording devices during property tours. These devices allow access to conversations and reactions that buyers assume are private.

A LendingTree survey of 2,000 consumers conducted in June 2026 provides insight. It revealed that 56 percent of sellers employed hidden cameras during home viewings. Meanwhile, 72 percent of buyers believed they were surveilled during home tours.

Why Sellers Choose Surveillance

“Modern smart doorbells capture crystal-clear audio 50 feet away from the front door,” says Greg Field, a specialized Solar Home Realtor® with HomeSmart Realty Pros in Tempe, AZ.

The primary reason for using cameras, according to 61 percent of sellers, is protection. Other reasons include monitoring buyers’ likes and dislikes about the property (19 percent) and gaining insights into buyers’ interest (18 percent).

Cara Ameer, an agent with Coldwell Banker, advises buyers to assume everything they say or do is being recorded during home tours.

Impact on Buyers’ Behavior

Surveillance during showings changes buyers’ approach. Real estate agents warn clients to be cautious about what they say inside a property. This precaution stems from uncertain knowledge about the presence of cameras or recording devices.

Surveillance can bring discomfort to buyers. Nineteen percent left a showing because they felt monitored, and 18 percent chose not to make an offer. Concerns about being recorded prompted 64 percent of recent buyers to worry about privacy during tours.

Legal Implications of Recording Buyers

“Video recording inside the private home is a common practice. Audio is a dangerous legal minefield,” says Field.

Recording legality varies by location and recording type. Video surveillance receives different treatment compared to audio recording, as states have stricter rules regarding recording conversations without consent. Sellers might face legal issues if recording audio.

Real estate professionals often advise sellers to disclose surveillance devices and recommend buyers to be cautious of discussions inside properties.

The safest practice for buyers is to conduct detailed discussions outside the property after the tour.