For new homeowners, selecting furniture, picking paint colors, and getting the perfect bath towels are usually at the forefront of their minds. However, prioritizing home security should be the initial concern.
If being cautious sounds excessive, don’t worry—modern DIY smart security systems and devices not only help deter intruders and troublemakers but also bring added flexibility and convenience to your daily life.
Smart home security involves more than just alarms and cameras. It includes anything that can offer peace of mind, whether it’s ensuring your kids arrive home safely, checking that everything is securely locked when you leave, or even preventing you from stubbing your toe during a late-night snack hunt in your new abode. While the options for gadgets are endless, we have compiled a concise list of essential devices (and a few extras) that suit most needs.
Before incorporating any new gadgets, it’s crucial to verify if your new home is already equipped with any smart devices. If so, and if the previous owner still has control over them, it poses a significant privacy and security risk (as well as a potential inconvenience). Before finalizing your home purchase, reach out to your real estate agent or the seller to identify existing devices, their locations, linked accounts, and any obligations such as long-term contracts, which some home security systems may have. If there are pre-installed devices, ensure a proper transfer of account ownership with updated passwords. In case you discover devices post-purchase, seek guidance from your realtor or the device manufacturer on disabling or transferring ownership.
