It’s on your mind: security.
The connotation of the word, the concept of protecting ourselves, and the reality of how quickly a life-changing event can happen have all changed pretty dramatically in the last decade. So, too, have our bank accounts and investments. It can be a true quandary when trying to figure out whether or not you can afford a home security system.
A lot of people ask, “Can we afford it?” when really the better question to ask might be “Can we afford not to put one in?”
There are initial costs of getting up and running with a home security system, but consider as well the reality that installing a home security system can save you money in the long run. Those who invest in a security system usually think of it as another layer of insurance. Comparable to health insurance, when we are proactive about our health and safety, lives and money are saved.
There’s a lot of good news about home security systems
Demand has increased in the last decade, so costs have actually come down. And there is a huge variety of both product and price points on the vast array of options. Prices vary from $100 to thousands of dollars; odds are in your favor that there’s a choice for you that will provide the most important aspect of all: your peace of mind.
Consider the ways a system can save you money:
Average of 20% decrease on your home insurance policy
Right off the top, a good chunk of your yearly premium is lobbed right off if you simply share your certificate of ownership for your home security system.
Of course, insurance companies appreciate when their clients make this investment, because as a matter of dollars and cents — it’s going to save them money and claims — if you have a system in place. That’s a good vote of confidence from your insurance company. They simply process fewer claims from home owners who have a security system, and the way they make their money is to process as few claims as possible.
Increase the value of your home
If selling your home is on the horizon in the next few years, this is yet an additional perk for a potential home buyer. People want to buy a home in which they will feel safe. It might be one of those things, like granite counter tops or nice landscaping, that buyers might not immediately invest in upon moving in, but if it’s already there, quite simply, your home will look more attractive to them when they are looking to purchase.
Save costs in damage or loss of goods
The average home burglary averages at about a $2,000 loss, and most people have a $500 or $1,000 deductible on their insurance policies. While the sense of violation adds up to a far greater loss, the financial damage compounds a difficult experience. The goal is to avoid making that burglary claim in the first place.
Fire and carbon monoxide loss
Clearly the loss is far greater than a TV or an heirloom piece of art if there has been damage from smoke or fire. The average cost to renovate after fire damage is just over $45,000, and this is of course if the house is actually salvageable. Often a claim is processed and approved, but once the building project begins, it becomes clear that that costs of services and supplies exceed the amount of the check the homeowner received from the claim.
The loss from carbon monoxide is far greater; if your home does not have at least a plug-in carbon monoxide right now — finish reading this article and take a trek to the local hardware store.
A staggering 73% of home burglaries start right at the front door
As noted, there are many varying types of home security systems. For just around $100, you could start with a simple magnetic strip that you can install at this entry point of your home.
From there, you could graduate up to a do-it-yourself wireless door alarm or system for multiple entrance points. These do-it-yourself projects can be installed for as little as $8.00 or $9.00 per month.
The next step up is the monthly-fee based security system that is both installed (often for free) and monitored by professionals for about $20.00 to $40.00 per month, depending upon the services you pick.
Did you know?
Ninety percent of convicted burglars who were interviewed shared that they stayed away from homes that clearly had a security system.
A window decal or lawn sign is a massive deterrent. The bad guys are going to target the homes that present the message of least resistance, and these signs simply translate to “Get away.” That’s exactly what you want.
Peace of mind is priceless
It’s not always a comfortable thought to ponder: We are all vulnerable to having our homes and personal safety violated, but the good news is that there are many options to consider that can protect your family’s most coveted possession: peace of mind. Unlike a TV or a piece of jewelry, that’s a tough one to replace.
Making the decision to protect your home, pets, family, and yourself can and will bring great peace of mind. Check that off the list, and then get back to the business of enjoying life. You’ll be relieved and glad that you did.
—
Valerie J. Wilson is a freelance writer for many companies and organizations covering a wide variety of topics including Alabama home security.