Maximum Value Technology Projects: Security

Home is where the heart is. There's no place like home. These familiar phrases are how we view and appreciate our abodes. If the home is the foundation of our livelihood, then it goes without saying that nothing is as important as its security. Thanks to timeless standbys and new technology, there are numerous ways to effectively secure the home. Because times have changed -- leaving front doors unlocked or garage doors open is not nearly as common as it once was -- it's important to take the time and properly secure your property with systems and features that are in tune with your home's needs.

CURRENT TRENDS

• You don't have to break the bank. One of the best things about home security is that the standby home security features such as locking windows, dead bolts and sensor lights are relatively inexpensive but very effective. Securing the home isn't about what kind of technology gets you the biggest return on your investment. Homeowners appreciate the kinds of features that will stand the test of time.
• Bleeding-edge technology. In higher-end markets, security that is integrated with other aspects of home technology are becoming considerably more popular. For example, you can now turn on lights, check security cameras or even open and shut windows and drapes all from a mobile device. Being able to fully secure your home with the ease of a one-touch function can make the newest technologies worth the investment.

BIGGEST MISTAKE

According to appraisal expert Leslie Sellers, president of the Appraisal Institute, the biggest mistake home buyers can make when it comes to home security technology is investing in a more advanced -- and more expensive -- system when there is no need.

"Recognize that you're really never going to 100 percent secure the home," says Sellers. The idea -- especially with burglary -- is to do what you can on a budget that works for you, and invest in certain aspects of security technology when the market your home is in demands it.

EXPERT TIPS

• On a Budget: Standard for some time, deadbolt locks are your best bet for staying on budget but doing a great job at securing the home. Take it a step further and invest in sensor lights and even the wireless door alarms you can buy at your local home improvement store. These are all small and easy fixes that are lower on cost but efficient in securing the home.
• Mid-Range: Home security systems are a solid investment for a mid-range budget. A professionally-installed security system -- with a second party on duty around the clock to secure your home -- is an added benefit that many homeowners appreciate and look for when considering a home purchase. Added to the already low-cost fixes mentioned above, you can rest assured your property is proficiently secured, day and night.   
• High-End: Trending big in higher-end homes is the implementation of high-end motion detectors and perimeter security cameras with home integration technology. With security features becoming a standard at this end of the market, not only are the basic safety fixes a must, but newer "bleeding edge" technology is also seen as a benefit in high-end housing.