Choosing affordable home security
equipment over systems that are monitored by professional security companies. Indeed, nearly half of Americans (49 percent) say they are open to installing their own home security system, according to a 2016 LivSecure survey. Of course, there are pros and cons of taking this DIY approach.
Because there’s no monthly fee, many self-monitoring systems are cheaper than professional home security systems. Proponents also say self-monitoring versions give homeowners a better sense of control over protecting their domain through access to live video feeds, mobile alerts, smartphone technology and other selfmonitoring tools.
Still, a traditional, professionally monitored home security system has advantages. Professional security systems will automatically alert authorities in an emergency situation, such as a break-in or a fire. (With selfmonitoring systems, you have to make the call.) Also, with a security provider, “you have someone to contact should your system have any kind of service issues,” Walters says. A security company “can send out a technician to troubleshoot and fix a panel that’s gone bad, which you don’t have with a DIY approach.”
A security provider can also keep eyes on your house when you’re away on vacation, Guilbeau points out. And security providers will often offer to have an expert assess your home to help you determine the most effective setup for your house.
But professional security providers tend to cost more. According to Consumer Reports, professional monitoring costs range from $100 to $300 annually, plus the cost of equipment. In comparison, DIY system starter kits start at about $200. Also, professionally installed systems typically offer less flexibility. If you move, you may have to pay to have the system reinstalled at your new place.
Three options for DIY-ers
Want to take home security into your own hands? Let’s narrow the options.
At the very least, you’ll want to monitor your home’s exterior using a smart camera, such as the Nest Cam, which sends live video to your phone and detects motion and loud noises. You can get two outdoor Nest Cams (one for your home’s front entry and one for the backyard) for $298.
Looking for a more comprehensive security system? Consider iSmartAlarm, a top performer according to CNET, Consumer Reports and PCMag. Its Shield Package ($613.90), which includes eight contact sensors, seven motion sensors and three remote tags, is well-suited for a three- to four-bedroom house, the company says.
Another DIY option is the Abode Essentials Starter Kit ($229), which includes one door/ window sensor, a battery-powered security camera and motion detector, and a key fob. The system integrates with Amazon Echo, Google Home and other home automations for voiceenabled arming and disarming.
Three options for professional monitoring
Many self-monitoring systems offer professional monitoring services for an additional monthly or annual fee. With its Nest Secure alarm system, Nest offers professional monitoring through Brinks Home Security; a three-year agreement costs $19 monthly and a month-to-month contract that’s $29 a month.
Frontpoint is a highly rated monitoring provider, according to security system review websites SafeWise and A Secure Life. The price ranges from $34.99 to $49.99 monthly — a tad pricey, but the system runs on cellular technology, which means you don’t have to worry about cut wires, loss of internet connection or power outages.
Depending on where you live, you could choose a local security company for a couple of reasons. “A local company will usually respond quicker to issues with the security system than will a national company, and local monitoring will have a better understanding of local crime trends than will a national monitor,” Walters says.