In today’s stressful world, it makes sense to look into home security options. No matter what the current home-burglary crime rates are, it’s never a bad thing to protect your home and family from potential intruders.
The top two crime issues that cause worry for Americans, according to a Safewise State of Safety in America 2023 survey, are package thefts from people’s homes, and home burglaries. To combat these robberies, a home security system with 24-7 recording video cameras, motion-based sensors to trigger lights and sirens, and remote access can give you peace of mind over your home’s protection, especially when you’re not there.
Of course, many different types of home security options are available in today’s market. You can buy self-monitored home security systems, or invest in professionally monitored home security systems.
Among the key features that you should look for in these systems are:
- 24-7 monitoring which can alert police in the event of an emergency;
- Alarms or siren system that sounds off in the event of a home intruder;
- Doorbell cameras, window sensors, and motion detectors, to detect any movement or unauthorized entry;
- Video camera surveillance on doors to see if anyone is trying to break in, and that you can access remotely through a mobile app or website;
- Mobile access to allow a homeowner to monitor their home and control their security system remotely.
Most self-monitored systems on the market offer these basic features. In higher-end systems, you’ll find features like fire and carbon monoxide detectors, which alert homeowners in case of a gas leak.
Which home security options are right for you?
If you’re thinking about adding on home security options, you’ll need to first decide what type of system is right for your home’s size, layout and budget. A professionally monitored system, from reputable companies like ADT, Vivant, and SimpliSafe, will monitor your home day and night and is responsive to alerts. But that service does come with monthly fees that may be out of your budget’s reach. In that case, you might look at a self-monitoring system.
A U.S. News & World Report survey ranked a few of the top self-monitored systems, and names like Ring Alarm, Xfinity, SimpliSafe, Abode and ADT were at the top. These are all adequate and reliable systems, with features at varying prices to fit the size of your home and the size of your budget.
Installing a home protection system can have benefits in other areas, too. For example, many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners with that put in a home security system. Once you show your insurance company your system is in place, your home insurance premiums may drop.
Plus, having a home monitoring system can bring enhanced home value, if you ever decide to sell your home. Today’s home buyers may be looking for a technology-driven home protection system in place.
Look to the team of First Centennial Mortgage to help with guidance on financing your home. One of our loan officers will be happy to assist you. We understand how important your home and safety is to you.