How to choose your home security system

by Lori Madden 04/03/2022

Home security systems can give homeowners peace of mind by deterring intruders or alerting them if someone tries to break in. Several kinds of security systems are available, which can make it hard to choose one for your home. The following tips can help you decide which kind of home security system you'll need for your specific home living situation.

Choose between wired and wireless

Security systems are available in hard-wired and wireless options. Hard-wired security systems need to be connected to wires in your home, such as a landline phone, to work. Wireless systems don't require these connections, since they rely on Wi-Fi technology to operate. You'll also find security systems that use both wired and wireless connections for sensors, monitoring and other components.

Consider visible or hidden sensors

Security systems have sensors to detect when someone tries to open doors and windows. In some cases, these sensors are placed in hidden areas. Other systems have sensors that are placed in visible areas. While visible sensors might not be visually appealing in your home, having them in plain view could help deter intruders.

Compare monitoring options

There are several security monitoring options. Some will even contact you when they detect anything strange in your home. For example, if your sensors weren't accidentally tripped, some monitoring services will call the police for you and have them go to your home. Monitoring services might also include options to have the security service alert the local fire department in case of a fire.

Think about management options

Security systems come with control panels, keypads and other ways to manage them. Search for a security system that offers keypads and control panels that are easy to use. You might also want to find one with a mobile app, so you can manage your security system from your phone or tablet when you're not home.

Explore extra features

Many security systems have their own added features that set them apart from others. Some offer motion sensors that alert you when there's movement inside your home when you or your household isn't there. Security cameras are another feature to consider. These cameras can provide you with views of the inside and outside of your home and record footage.

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About the Author

Lori Madden

As a Florida native growing up in Sarasota, I have seen my hometown grow from a sleepy coastal town to a highly sought-after destination along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. After working in Chicago for 5 years, I returned to Sarasota and saw it through a new lens and really began to appreciate what makes Sarasota so desirable, including temperatures that allow for year round outdoor activities including tennis (a personal favorite), golf, boating, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, or just relaxing and/or shelling on our pristine sandy shores, including Dr. Beach’s #1 beach in the United States for 2017, Siesta Key! Sarasota’s cultural amenities are many and diverse, appealing to a wide range of arts lovers. Downtown Sarasota has become a destination in itself, drawing many new developments for those who want to be within walking distance of Main Street's offerings and the picturesque bayfront and marina. Foodies will find an eclectic mix of locally owned and operated restaurants offering something for everyone, and there are now Farmers Markets every day of the week in various locations throughout Sarasota, but the Saturday morning Farmers Market in downtown Sarasota draws the biggest crowds. Since 1988, my passion has been selling real estate, representing both buyers and sellers. I have been recognized by my clients and customers for an uncompromising work ethic and dedication to helping them achieve their real estate goals. Relying on my experience as a real estate paralegal and being highly organized, I am able to help make the transition between contract and closing a smooth one for my clients. With an eye for interior and landscape design, I've been known to pitch in and help Sellers minimize and/or reorganize their belongings in order to stage their home to maximize its sale potential. I specialize in out of state buyers looking for their piece of paradise along the Gulf Coast and make it a priority to keep them up to date on our quickly changing local real estate market. I welcome the opportunity to share with you all Sarasota and her surrounding islands have to offer!