Ive had one of these controlling my outside lights for the past couple years, installed it when we moved in. Never have to turn on outside lights again.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Honeywell...5?N=5yc1vZc334
For other automation, look into the belkin Wemo products that you can control from your phone, or you can get a full blown system like this, which Ill be doing this next year. No need to incorporate into your car...
http://www.insteon.com/products-home.html
You can control everything from a smartphone or tablet no matter where you are. Anything from sprinkler control to garage door opener, lights, outlets, and cameras.