Eight Common Home Security System Misconceptions

Home security systems are a proven deterrent against burglary and have helped save countless lives from fire and other emergencies when professionally monitored. Millions of people have experienced the benefits of having a professionally-installed home security system, but there are many more who still view security systems as expensive, unnecessary, or inadequate. With KMT Systems being Atlanta’s foremost security provider, we’ve taken the time to dispel several of the most common misconceptions about home security systems to show you how they can help to secure both your home and your family.

I don’t have anything worth protecting.

Many homeowners don’t believe they’ve accumulated enough “stuff” to warrant investing in a security system, but burglars aren’t always after the plasma screens and family jewels. Guns and prescription pills are some of the highest-targeted goods because they are easy to move on the street at a high value. Even then, most people own electronics of some sort – televisions, computers, phones—or personal documents that are also targeted by thieves. The average cost of a burglary is $2,251 per incident, but the psychological cost or long-term damage can be much higher.

Additionally, the most valuable thing you stand to lose is your life. Protecting yourself and your family from home invasion, fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, and the like is well worth the investment in a 24/7-monitored home security system.

Home security systems are too expensive.

If this were the 1960s, you might have a point. Technology has advanced so much in the last few decades that a reliable, high-quality, professionally-installed home security system can be purchased for only a few hundred dollars. Professional monitoring of said system can be purchased for the price of a night of take-out for the family per month. Again, it’s a worthwhile investment when considering what a burglary or home fire would cost you.

I already have a security system—my dog.

Dogs can certainly act as a deterrent to home invaders, but a barking dog isn’t going to do much to stop a burglar whose mind is made up. Most home burglaries occur during the day, so a barking dog is likely to be ignored by neighbors who hear the same dog barking at the mailman or passersby daily. In the event of a home invasion, most dogs nowadays are family dogs who are socialized not to jump on people entering the house. They are easily swayed by treats or some small amount of attention. If a dog does act aggressively toward a burglar, the sad truth is the dog is likely to be harmed or worse in the process of the burglary. What’s more, no matter what Lassie may have led you to believe, the odds are your Pomeranian will not be able to rescue you if your home goes up in flames. Especially if you consider your dog a part of your family, your pup deserves the same protection afforded to the rest of your household.

Your pet is a valued member of your family, but perhaps not the best source of security.

I have pets, so a security system won’t work for me.

If you own Marmaduke or a small elephant, a security system might not be for you. For the rest of us, there are pet-friendly motion sensors whose sensitivity can be adjusted to ignore the movement of small- to medium-sized pets whose sensitivity can be adjusted. It’s just one benefit of professional installation—a custom-engineered solution to fit your (and your pet’s!) needs.

I can just put a security system up myself.

One piece of advice: don’t. Firstly, the “latest and greatest” do-it-yourself (DIY) devices aren’t made to the same standards as those made by professional security vendors. When you hear about home security devices being hacked, it is almost always a DIY device. Even if DIY devices were of higher quality, designing a security system for any building requires thorough training and an understanding of the capacities and limitations of every single device going into the house. Even basic considerations such as device placement can affect the overall functionality of a home security system. Professional security providers have a wealth of experience and training in system engineering and installment that most well-intentioned DIYers have never received. In short, something as vital as securing your property and family is better left to the professionals.

Modern “smart home” security systems are easily hackable.

There’s been a lot of noise in the media about the deficiencies of homes that utilize the internet to connect their devices. Namely, how someone with malicious intent can hack into various devices and control their security system or even communicate with those inside the house. These concerns are valid, but a quick look at these incidents reveals they occurred on DIY systems. Professional security providers use sophisticated, highly-rated control panels and devices that utilize security protocols such as high-level encryption to protect homes from hacking. Making sure to password-protect your home Wi-Fi, another major risk factor should help to cover the rest of the bases. Something a professional security provider is likely to tell you during installation. If you’re willing to spend money on a DIY system that contains security deficiencies, it’s spending the small amount more to have a professional put in high-quality devices.

Professionally-installed smart home systems are far more secure than the problematic “DIY” solutions flooding the market.

Can’t an experienced burglar just cut my phone line, rendering my system useless?

While an uncommon occurrence, this is technically possible on dated plain-old-telephone-service (POTS) lines and systems that use them. Most telephone service providers are turning away from copper phone lines as it is and turning to voice-over-IP (VOIP) lines that are incompatible with most security systems. Forward-thinking security providers such as KMT Systems have turned away from installing phone line-dependent systems in homes and now almost exclusively install home security systems that utilize cellular and internet communication. With these cellular communication devices, there is no phone line to cut, making home security systems more reliable than ever.

I live in a nice neighborhood. I’ll just lock my doors.

Believe it or not, the more affluent neighborhoods can be targeted the most frequently. It’s a simple calculation of risk/reward on the part of the prospective burglar: what house is more likely to have goods of the most value to me? The very mentality of “my neighborhood is nice enough” actually encourages burglars to target these “nice” neighborhoods with more frequency. If you think your neighborhood will be targeted by burglars, you’re more likely to get a security system, and smart burglars understand that. Also, considering the fact that most home burglaries occur by simply breaking in the front door, a normal door lock isn’t likely to cut it.

The KMT Advantage

As you can see, home security systems are safer, more advanced, and more affordable than ever before. If you’re interested in finding out what a professional-grade security system has to offer you and yours in terms of protection, look no further than KMT Systems. KMT has been securing Georgia homes for 15 years and uses that experience to customize security solutions to fit your individual needs.

To learn more about purchasing a security system for your home, talk to an KMT Systems Customer Representative at (770) 284-3144

THE DOS AND DON’TS ABOUT BUYING AND SELLING SMART

THE DOS AND DON’TS ABOUT BUYING AND SELLING SMART

The latest Cheddar @ Home episode details how to buy and sell a home with smart home products

When it comes to buying a new home, house hunters are  inundated with decisions. The typical choices – such as the number of bathrooms and bedrooms, or the style of the home – are still on people’s minds. And these days, another popular topic for first-time homebuyers is a home’s ability to easily incorporate smart home products.

NEED HELP NOW CALL KMT (770) 284-3144

For sellers, they too have choices about smart home products: they can either bring those smart home devices with SELL-Smart-Home-KMT-300x157 THE DOS AND DON'TS ABOUT BUYING AND SELLING SMARTthem, or leave them in the home to increase the value of their home. Cheddar @ Home recently spoke with Lourdes Pena, a real estate agent with Redfin, about the latest home-buying trends. Pena advises her sellers to leave some of those smart devices in the home.

For example, if something is mounted to the wall or ceiling – like a flat-panel TV or a smart thermostat, or a sound system, the sellers will likely leave that. Home owners may want to bring their wireless cameras or appliances to their next home, so it’s best to check with your agent to be sure.

Pena also shared a few other home-buying tips, including:
1. Location. Consider where you want to buy. Should it be in a good school district? Do you want an easy commute?  How about a nice “walking score?”
2. Finances. You’ll want to know what you can afford before you start your search. Pena also recommends to get pre-approved for a loan before you start searching so your dream home doesn’t get snatched up before you can put the money down.

3. Build the team. Get recommendations from family or friends about a good real estate agent and a mortgage lender.

For those sellers looking to upgrade before they list their home on the market, here are a few ways to connect and control your home and make it more comfortable and secure. And, best of luck to those new home buyers as the Spring market heats up!

10 Ways to Protect Your Home While Away On Vacation

10 Ways to Protect Your Home While Away On Vacation

Since a vacation might be something you enjoy only one or two times per year, it’s easy to get excited about what to pack and what you’ll see while you’re away. However, it’s important not to overlook home security during this time, especially since you won’t be around. To help increase your security and peace of mind, take into account the home protection tips below.

1. Plug Electronics Into Timers

Avoid a dark and empty looking home by installing timers on a few of your electronics, such as the TVs and lamps. The best type of timer is one that works at random intervals so the electronics don’t turn on at the same time every day.

2. Plan for Mail Collection

You can easily contact USPS to hold your mail while you’re on vacation. Alternatively, you can ask a trusted neighbor to pick up packages and mail for you and store them at their house.

3. Install a Security System

If you are away often, a home security system is one of the best investments you can make. This is especially true now that home automation and wifi video surveillance make it easy to see everything right from your phone. In fact, with many systems, you can log onto your app, look at videos, turn lights on, change your thermostat, and even lock/unlock doors.

4. Plan for Trash Collection

To make it look like you are home, ask a neighbor to take your bins out and put them away once trash has been collected.

5. Invite Someone Over

If you have a friend or family member who needs some extra cash (or time away from home), invite them to be a house sitter.

6. Keep Your Home Maintained

A home with a lawn that isn’t mowed is a clear signal that someone is unlikely to be home. Hire someone to come by and take care of your landscaping for you.

7. Don’t Post Online

Posting online that you’re leaving is a bad idea, especially if your accounts are public. Don’t let others know you’re going to be away from home. Instead, talk about your vacation when you’re back and are going to be home regularly.

8. Set Up Cameras

If you don’t want a full-on home security system, then consider using wifi video surveillance. With this, you can log onto an app and have a real-time view of the camera footage.

9. Use a Video Doorbell

One great investment you can make in home automation is a video doorbell. With this, you’ll be able to see and talk to who is at your door right when they ring the doorbell. 

10. Keep Your Garage Door Opener

If you keep your garage door opener in your vehicle, take it out and place it somewhere safe. It’s also recommended to lock your garage door, even if this is something you don’t normally need to do.

By using the tips above, you can keep your home safe, even while you’re far away. More importantly, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your home is fully protected at all times.

8 Reasons to Get a Home Security System

Have questions about home security? Call KMT Systems TODAY! (770) 284-3144

Home security is one of the most important gifts you can give your family. Knowing you are safe when you are home is priceless. Knowing your home is safe when you are not in it is equally priceless. If you are on the fence about a home security system, here are eight great reasons it’s time to invest today. 

IQ-Panel-2_Countdown_Lifestyle_LARGE-1024x682 8 Reasons to Get a Home Security System

Deter Criminals 

Burglars and criminals are less likely to target a home that has a security system. Home security is a powerful deterrent, which means your family is safer at home. Criminals look for these when they want to target a home, and most turn around when they notice a system. 

Protect Your Family 

If your family sleeps through a criminal breaking into your home, you may not be able to save them. However, you can protect your family by providing them the benefit of knowing that someone has opened a window or door any time of the day. This helps them prepare for what’s happening instead of ending up surprised when it’s too late. 

Keep Your Kids Safe 

Did you know a security system is about more than just criminals? You can protect your family from the dangers lurking outside even if they aren’t the kind that come inside. For example, if your system comes with a door chime, you will know anytime a door is opened. This might be the notification you need to keep a child inside rather than in the pool. 

Save Money on Homeowners Insurance 

Your homeowner’s insurance premium might go down if you have a security system at home. Call them to find out if you have this option. If you don’t, you can shop around for a lower rate elsewhere by providing them with the name of your security system. 

Provide Your Family with Peace of Mind 

How often do you travel and wonder what’s going on at home? Now you don’t have to wonder. A security system allows you to know if your home is safe and sound even when you are not there to check on it. 

Protect Your Home From Anywhere 

With a security system, you can protect your home from anywhere in the world. You can use your app to turn on the lights, to set the alarm, and even the check on other things. Being remotely connected makes your life easier. It also helps you sleep better at night. 

Control Your Home 

Many security systems now come with smart thermostats and outlets you can control remotely. You can save money on utilities by changing the thermostat anywhere in the world. You can save on worry by turning off outlets if you’re not sure you unplugged something. You can even control the lights and other features in your home. 

Check on the Kids 

If you have kids, you worry about them. With a security system, you can check on them using cameras and other smart technology. You know when they get home from school in the afternoons. You know if they open a door or window. You know everything, and you can even keep track of who comes to your front door when you’re not home. 

A security system is a great investment for the simple reason it makes you feel better about your own life. You are more relaxed, and that’s a priceless feeling. Your home and your family are your priority, and a security system helps you keep them safe.

Spring Break Home Security Tips

Spring Break Home Security Tips

Spring break is a great opportunity to get out of town, visit somewhere new and spend quality time with family. Unfortunately, it’s also a good opportunity for burglars and thieves to break into homes and steal electronics, jewelry and other expensive and sentimental items.

Does this mean that Atlanta families shouldn’t take spring break trips? Of course not! It just means that you’ll have to take a few extra steps to secure your home before heading out of town. We’ll share some spring break security tips below.

Make It Look Like You’re Home

Don’t make it obvious that you’re out of town. Set lights on a timer, or better yet, hook lights up to your smart home system and turn them on and off remotely. Ask a neighbor to take your mail and newspaper inside, and to put the trash cans out on garbage day. If you’re going to be gone for more than a week, make plans to have your grass cut.

Don’t Broadcast Your Travel Plans

In the age of social media, it’s tempting to post about your exciting spring break plans. But even with your privacy settings turned up, would-be burglars may still be able to see that you’ll be gone. Keep quiet about your trip until after you return.

Make Breaking In More Difficult

Install a deadbolt on your doors and windows, and use motion sensor lights outside of your home.

Monitor Your Home Remotely

A smart home system allows you to check in from wherever you are. Consider installing smart cameras, lights, door locks, temperature controls and more.

Install a Home Security System

By far, the best way to prevent a break-in from occurring while you’re out of town is to install and use a home security system. Not only will this protect your home, but it will also give you peace of mind, allowing you to truly relax and enjoy your long-awaited vacation.

Give KMT Systems a call before you head out on your spring break trip. We can install a home security system, help automate your home and much more. Trusted by more than 6,000 Atlanta-area homes and businesses, our award-winning security company is committed to your safety.

Insurance Discounts for Home Security Systems

Insurance Discounts for Home Security Systems

At a recent network meeting, I was talking to an insurance agent.  In our conversation, she reminded me why insurance agents give discounts to home owners who have a home security system.

Insurance Is About Calculated Risks

Insurance companies calculated risks.  Home owner’s insurance premiums are based on calculated risks.  Based on FBI statistics, a US home is burglarized every 13 seconds.  Using use same national statistics, homes with security system are 300% less likely to be burglarized.

Home Security Systems Reduce Insurance Premiums

With a home security system, your home is at a lesser risk.  Most insurance companies provide discounts on your home insurance premiums.  Depending upon your insurance company, you can get anywhere from 5%-20% discount on your homeowners insurance.  There may be additional discounts for deadbolts and other home security options.

Conclusion

Call your insurance agent and explore the discounts that maybe available to you with a home security system.  In you’re an existing Protection Concept customer, supply us with your insurance company information and we will send them the Certificate of Monitoring so you get your insurance discount. Want to learn more why
insurance companies love home security systems, click here for more information.