WHAT EVERY SANTA BARBARA HOMEOWNER NEEDS TO KNOW

We are all aware of the importance of home security systems these days. Every 14.5 seconds, a robbery is reported. While having a home security system installed can be costly, not installing one could cost Santa Barbara and Montecito homeowners even more.
Of course, the main reason homeowners should consider installing a home security system is that it offers protection from intruders for family members and valuables. Experts say homes without security systems are 2.7 times more likely to be targeted by a burglar. In most cases, the mere presence of an alarm system is enough to protect the home and its occupants from break-in.
Additional Reasons Why You Should Install a Monitored Home Security System
These alarm systems also provide additional protection barriers for homeowners. One of the biggest benefits of having a monitored home security system is that it provides constant monitoring even when you are unable to do so yourself. Leaving town for business or going on vacation can be nerve-wracking even with a home security alarm, but with a monitored service, there is always someone to respond to emergency situations. You will also have the ability to monitor your own home remotely.
Then there’s fire prevention. Along with installing fire alarms, most homeowners can relax by knowing their monitoring company offers additional alerts when they detect smoke. Security systems also provide protection for pets. If a fire were to break out when no one but the family pet was home, without a home alarm system that pet would be doomed.
Consider home insurance cost savings. In general, homeowners receive a 10-20% discount on their insurance by having a functioning home alarm system installed. Plus, having a home monitoring system actually increases your home value, especially when it comes to selling your home. As an added bonus, it also keeps your home protected throughout the selling process, when a number of strangers will be inside your home.
What to Look For When Choosing a Home Security Monitoring System
There are various kinds of home security systems available for every household. But what are the important elements Santa Barbara and Montecito homeowners need to look for when selecting the right system?
- 24/7 professional monitoring
One of the most common features you’ll find with home security systems provides an added layer of protection and assistance for you and your home.
- Security cameras
Monitor both the inside and outside of your home via security cameras. Plus, the addition of security cameras is a great deterrent. Visible cameras are likely to make a criminal pass by your home. - Smart home devices
Enhance your home security with smart devices that allow you to control security at your fingertips. Think garage door controllers, smart locks and smart lights; all designed to allow you to manage parts of your home remotely while adding an additional layer of security.
- Mobile app access
Mobile apps allow you to access and control your home security system through your phone while you are away. If you leave your house in a hurry, you can easily set your security alarm via your mobile app. Most security providers today offer mobile app access with your security system.
- Motion sensors
Motion sensors are essential. Think of them as the first line of defense against would-be burglars. These devices detect suspicious activity and can trigger your alarm or, at least, notify you of any movement.
- Control panel
Be sure your system has a central control panel or keypad that allows you to arm or disarm your system. Some alarm systems allow you to use the control panel for two-way communication, too, just in case of an emergency.
Choosing the Right Monitored Home Security System for Your Residence
With so many providers out there today, how does a Montecito or Santa Barbara homeowner select the right system? Be sure to do your due diligence before signing a contract. Start by reviewing this article by the editors of the personal-finance brand and website, MONEY and make sure to pay attention to the following:
- Check out each home security provider’s history, certifications and customer service. Read security service reviews and speak with a team member to feel confident in your choice of the alarm company.
- Think about your home’s security needs and choose the equipment and monitoring plan that meets only those needs. You can always upgrade later.
- Consider how much you’re willing to pay for a home security system. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as equipment, installation, and professional monitoring.
- A monitored home security system can save a lot in the future. Ask your homeowner’s insurance company about available discounts or waived fees that you get for having a home security alarm.
5 Top Home Security Monitoring Companies
Once you have answers to the question above, you’ll be ready to select the perfect 24/7 security system. Here is a list of 5 of the best to consider when it comes to protecting your family and belongings:
1) Frontpoint Security
When the Frontpoint control panel gets a tripped alarm signal from one of the sensors, it immediately sends a secure signal via the cellular network to the monitoring center. That signal is encrypted, meaning that it's almost impossible to disrupt it. You have your choice of monitoring packages from Frontpoint. There are monitoring plans for a number of contingencies, including burglary, fire, and more.
2) ADT
The two most important factors to consider when choosing a home security system are the reliability of equipment and quality of service. ADT offers both, which is why they have become the number one authorized premier provider in the country. It all starts when an experienced installation technique installs your system. After that, homeowners can relax knowing they have chosen a security company that provides exemplary levels of service after installation.
3) Vivint
Vivint Smart Home is another leading smart home company in North America. The company delivers an integrated smart home system with in-home consultation, professional installation, and support delivered by its Smart Home Pros. You can also count on them to provide 24/7 customer care and monitoring. Dedicated to redefining the home experience with intelligent products and services, Vivint serves more than 1.4 million customers throughout the U.S. and Canada.
4) ProtectAmerica Security
ProtectAmerica ( recently acquired by Brinks) believes safety should be within any homeowner's reach. That's why they have created customized home security systems that cost less than with ADT or Vivint while homeowners can still receive award-winning home protection.
Add door sensors, window sensors, glass break detectors, smoke detectors, and more to your system as well. The monitoring service provided by ProtectAmerica covers you all day, every day. If a sensor goes off, you have enough time to get to your control panel and enter your code in order to deactivate it.
5) SimpliSafe Home Security
This is one of the most popular DIY security providers, known for its affordable professional alarm monitoring. Select from a range of home security solutions from three different package options. SimpliSafe’s equipment is modern and easy to install. All packages include the security basics like motion sensors, while the more advanced packages include enhancements like video surveillance or key fob control. The monitoring plans include features like environmental monitoring, mobile alerts, security camera recording and more.
For the latest intel and reviews of the most popular home security systems, visit This Old House.
I delighted to offer this post on my blog since I’m confident it provides Santa Barbara and Montecito homeowners some good intel on all the home security monitoring system options out there today. Chances are, a home or estate you purchase using my services will already have a first-rate monitored security system. If you’re considering selling, remember state-of-the-art home security can make your property much more attractive to potential buyers. Either way, I’m ready to help with your purchase or sale of real estate in Montecito, Hope Ranch or any of Santa Barbara’s upscale communities, just call me at 805.886.9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com.