Home Security Systems; What You Need to Know-Part 1
Now that you have the home of your dreams, one of your first thoughts may be how to protect it—and the people and belongings inside it. Deciding whether you need a home security system can feel overwhelming. Some homeowners feel they need one immediately, while others determine they may not need one at all.
How do you work through this decision? What factors should matter most? At Ernest Homes, we take homeowner safety seriously, so we’re here to help you think through the pros and cons in a practical, informed way.
There are both advantages and disadvantages to owning a home security system—and the importance of each will vary by household.
Start With Your Neighborhood
One of the first things to consider is the crime rate in your area. Generally, the lower the crime rate, the less likely you may feel the need for a monitored security system.
To evaluate your neighborhood, review local crime data from reputable sources such as CrimeGrade or NeighborhoodScout.
It’s also wise to consider crime trends in nearby towns and cities. Criminal activity isn’t always limited to one neighborhood, and some offenders travel to areas they believe are easier targets.
Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity. Unlocked doors, weak locks, dark exteriors, and homes that appear unoccupied are far more likely to be targeted than well-lit, secured homes.
Evaluate Your Safety Habits
Good habits go a long way toward protecting your home. When you’re away, use light timers and arrange for mail and packages to be picked up. Avoid posting travel plans or vacation updates on social media until you’ve returned home.
Other deterrents can include motion-activated exterior lighting, visible alarm signage, or even a family dog. While not foolproof, these measures can make your home less appealing to opportunistic intruders.
Understand the Downsides of Security Systems
Home security systems do require attention and consistency. Systems must be armed when leaving and disarmed when returning—something that’s easy to forget when you’re rushed or distracted. Repeated false alarms can also result in fines in some municipalities.
Most systems require routine testing and ongoing maintenance to function properly. Additionally, prices and service quality vary widely across providers. Higher cost does not always equal better performance or customer support.
Be cautious of companies that rely on high-pressure sales tactics or fear-based messaging. A good provider should educate you—not rush you.
How to Research Security Providers
If you decide a home security system makes sense for your household, take time to research reputable companies. Helpful review and comparison resources include:
Have you weighed the factors and decided whether a home security system is right for you?
Be sure to check back on our Ernest Homes Blog, where we’ll continue this series by breaking down system features and helping you choose the right setup for your home.
If you have questions about protecting your new Ernest home, feel free to reach out through our Contact Us page.
