While more and more homeowners are turning to high-tech security options in order to protect their homes, some experts say that this is not the only option, especially when you consider their overall installation cost. While new homes are being sold with a security system in place, Americans who already own their homes or who are paying a mortgage oftencannot afford to have a installed. However, this doesn’t mean that they have to lie awake and worry about their safety. Instead, there are many other ways to improve their home’s security, ways that won’t put a dent into their bank accounts.
One way that homeowners can save money on home security is to install features, such as lock kits that come with keyless entry.
It has taken people awhile to grasp the concept of entering their homes electronically with a touchpad,” says Joey Davis, product manager for Kwikset. “But keyless fobs for cars came out some time ago and some have keypads, so people are now more comfortable with them.”
Because many of these locks can be installed by the homeowner, the homeowner can save on expensive installation fees or having to pay for a locksmith. Several key companies have come out with complete kits that let allow a homeowner to install a keyless entry system that is both functional and good-looking.
Keyless doors aren’t the only way that homeowners can save money on keeping their homes safe. New deadbolt kits are designed to be both easy to install and virtually invulnerable to any thief. For example, recent deadbolt systems that have been released by the well-known Schlage corporation cannot be damaged by any kind of saw or other sharp tool – and cannot be opened by any kind of lock-picking method. There are several styles and finishes available so that homeowners can match their deadbolt kits to the finish on their doors.
Homeowners who still enjoy the feel of a high-tech home security system but cannot spend the money on one should consider a do-it-yourself camera kit. The starter kit, accessories, and camera cost around $500, depending on what kind of camera is purchased. Real-time home monitoring is possible with this kit, but the homeowner must also have broadband Internet and a cell phone in order to use all the options that come with it, such as temperature monitoring and when family members come and go, providing homeowners peace of mind for just dollars a day.
Emily Stevenson
Author – Emily is a 10 year veteran of the home security industry working in sales. She was a top sales person at leading home security companies, but has shifted her focus to working on helping consumers make the right decisions.