I use a vera z-wave controller. Created a virtual switch in its interface that is turned on and off when the wattage goes above and below a certain wattage and C4 can be programed to beep the remotes and send a push notification when the switch turns off to the person who is home using the vera geolocation as well. Also used some of @alanchow's experience buttons to show when the washer and dryer are running
https://www.chowmainsoft.com/experience-button-suite
I use these to send notifications when the dryer and washing machine are done but that is about it
https://www.amazon.com/Aeon-Labs-AEDSB09104ZWUS-Aeotec-Monitor/dp/B00DIBSKFU
I am also running into issues with motion sensors. They show motion when testing in the vera gui but no status update in c4. Going to try having the vera sensor turn on and off a virtual switch with scenes. Hide it in navigator and have c4 programimg follow its state
Tried tinkering with the driver for the un65mu6300 to control a un65ks8000 and in the documentation of the driver it says to go into network settings>expert settings> and turn on remote control and that isnt available on the 2016 tv so probably a bust at least for now
Depends on the motors, i would ask your shade guy but there are 2 wireless rts interfaces that connect to a RS232 port of a controller to be able to let c4 talk to them wirelessly so distance/range is a concern. Usually around $300
Plus using the IR to relay and IR to light drivers and programing IFTTT commands based on the state are nice in certain situations when experience buttons wont cut it
Sounds like he is probably overcharging for the speaker install but is definitely undercharging for the programing by at least 3 hours depending on expectations including training/comissioning. A wash is a wash