Adding Value to Your Home With A Security System
Any buyer, seller, renter, or investor will find value in a good security system because it does give a sense of peace that the property is protected. Security systems are growing in popularity as technology does the same. It appeals to both the buyer’s emotional side and logical side. Emotionally, of course, the security system keeps our families or tenants safer. Logically, the system, keeps our possessions and property safer. For apartment owners, an updated security system with good lighting will also protect you from unnecessary liability, avoiding tripping accidents in the dark. There are many advantages that buyers will appreciate, often choosing your home or apartment over another.
A survey by Realtor.com concludes that newer technology security systems seem to be on the rise over the older fashioned ones and can can increase the value of a home by up to 5% by adding security, plus can be far less expensive than perceived. Home appraisers are even beginning to factor smart home technology into their valuations, Realtor.com reports; thus, buyers and sellers are beginning to take notice.
There are many types of smart home systems. Do you want to only keep doors locked and have them inform you when breached (rather old fashioned but okay). Do you want one that you can check on before entering? One that you can control the temperature from your phone? Would you like to adjust the radio, television, all lighting, from your phone and/or by voice, on a timer? Some will actually measure the temperature of a room based upon how many people are in the room and adjust accordingly, saving on your energy bill. Think of your needs and lifestyle and go from there.
As you can see, security systems share so many things in common but the most common reason for installing is SAFETY. A thief most often will avoid a home with a prominently displayed security system, motion activated lighting and perhaps security cameras. For additional security, some people like speaker phones at their home doors, with even more people appreciating them when living at gated communities and/or apartments.
Insurance companies offer discounts of up to 20% for homes and apartments with security systems so with the savings from your utilities and insurance, the cost of the security system you choose pays for itself within a few years or less.
Interestingly, people over 60 own more smart home technology than the millennials (comparatively 15% to 10%, but that is changing). Millennials want smart tech for the conveniences as well as the security. Generation Xers want to make a more comfortable and peaceful setting for themselves. Baby boomers are using smart tech to add more value to their homes.
So, a home security system is primarily about safety but can also be about comfort, making it fun, and a long term investment. Back to the original question, yes, a security system will be a good investment for your home. Smart home security is certainly not a passing fad. If you’ve invested in an apartment, it’s an even better investment, adding a wise amenity to help make your rents more acceptable and your property more sellable. Stay safe and profitable!