Can a Home Security System Increase the Value of Your Home?

One of the first questions people ask when visiting a potential house is whether the neighborhood is safe or not. It makes sense, buying a house is a huge investment, and no one wants to spend all that money to live in a place where their families don’t feel safe. Surveillance cameras help with this, as neighborhoods with monitored houses see an overall decrease in crime. Moreover, when a family has to choose between buying two similar houses, a home security system could be a deciding factor. But how do these devices actually impact the value of your home, and which systems offer a higher return on investment?

Wired vs wireless home security system

When you’re getting a home security system, you need to choose between two options: wired or wireless. While the former is more expensive, as it needs professional installation, it also offers a better value when selling your house. We recommend going for a provider that offers free professional installation, like Monitronics. Buyers will be happy that they won’t have to spend time and money installing the system themselves. On the other hand, since wireless devices are cheaper and easier to set up, they don’t add as much value to the house. After all, buyers can easily install a wireless system themselves.

Smart features are important

More than cameras and other surveillance technology, buyers value smart features. People are especially interested in smart thermostats, fire detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors. Most home security system providers, such as Frontpoint or AlarmForce, offer this type of equipment as an extra. Since prices aren’t too high, it’s worth considering getting these installed before selling your house. Even if it doesn’t increase the house’s actual value, it improves your home’s perceived value. In other words, when buyers are divided between your house and others, the safety provided by your smart devices will be pivotal.

Reduce homeowner insurance

Another way a home security system increases a house’s value is by reducing insurance costs. Some homeowner insurance providers go as far as offering discounts of up to 20% for people who install home security systems on their homes. This means that protecting yourself from criminals can increase your house’s value even before you sell it, as it allows you to save on overall costs. It’s also a benefit that can be explained to the new owners and can be used as a reason to increase the house value above market price. For instance, if we compare two properties – one with a home security system and the other without one – buyers will prefer the one that will offer them savings throughout the many years they’re going to live there.

Besides offering extra peace of mind, home security systems can actually make you money. Even if it doesn’t pay off the full investment you made, your home will be more attractive to interested buyers, who will choose your house when compared to one that’s less secure.