A Look at Affordable Security Systems

There is some new technology when it comes to home security. Do your research, some new systems can keep you safe while possibly even saving money.

As examples of the expanding choices available, here's a quick look at four systems that use modern options -- high tech and low tech, centrally monitored or able to notify you directly if there's an issue.

1. For flexible direct alerting without monthly fees, Sensaphone's Model 400, list price $395, monitors electrical power, high or low temperature, and noise level.

2. For people who have replaced land-line telephones with cellphone or Internet voice service, McLean's Alarm.com takes a different approach. The system connects via a two-way cellular network to an operations center. This system handles traditional alarms such as intrusion and fire as well as non-emergent activities like children returning from school or someone opening a liquor cabinet. This system can also sound an alert if a desired event doesn't happen, such as an elderly parent occasionally moving around. Video connections provides a remote "grannycam" if that option is needed. Monitoring is always on, unlike with many home alarm systems. Price ranges from $300 on up to over $1000 plus monitoring fees.

3. A simple, self-installed intrusion-detection technology comes from LaserShield. Its starter kit, costing $199.99 (plus monitoring fees), includes a master alarm unit, an infrared wireless detection unit, two key-chain remotes and a device to prevent animal-triggered false alarms. Only the master unit needs a telephone connection; units have panic buttons and battery backup.

4. For flexible and modular security, AT&T's Remote Monitor system provides functions ranging from minimal (one door/window intrusion sensor and one camera) to comprehensive (multiple cameras including pan and tilt capability; water, temperature, motion and intrusion sensors; power controller, lamp dimmer; thermostat). Four starter kits are available, ranging from $199 to $899 plus monitoring fees.

All systems have disadvantages as well as the touted features; he pointed out that initial and monthly cost, troubleshooting procedures, customer service, and coverage hours all affect long-term satisfaction. Do your reasearch to find the best system for you and your family. Click here to read the entire Washington Post article.

Stay Safe...

Angela Jones
www.AngelaJonesRealEstate.com

Pouring Cash Into the Bath

Every home seller who's serious about the job knows that scrubbing, de-cluttering, and all manner of primping are mandatory. But how far should you go in making expensive repairs to a bathroom?

Buyers pay a lot of attention to bathrooms. They know it's expensive to remodel, and they're mightily turned off by disrepair. And plenty of homes in this area have bath tiles in horrid hues of yellow, pink, blue and green that cry out for replacement.

A bathroom rehab can move to the top of the to-do list when other parts of the home have already been updated. Buyers tend to expect that a whole house is of similar quality.

If you have already updated the kitchen and other parts of the house, a shabby, old bathroom can stick in buyers' memories, turning your lovely, reasonably priced home into the one shoppers remember as "the house with the ugly blue tiles."

But is it worth remodeling just to help along a sale? To find out, read the following Washington Post article "Pouring Cash Into the Bath".

See You Next Week...

Angela Jones
www.AngelaJonesRealEstate.com

Relaxation, in Rotation

Have you and your family been thinking about purchasing a vacation home but think that you just can't afford 2 mortgages? You may find an answer to your problem in this Washington Post Article written by Karen Tanner Allen. Relaxation, in Rotation discusses the trend of families and friends purchasing vacation homes together, kind of like a "mini timeshare". Allowing families to get away without breaking the bank. This arrangement has multiple families sharing the mortgage as well as the day to day expenses.

If this is something that you may be serious about, you might want to also read Preventing Conflict, Preserving Fun. This related article may give you some helpful hints on drafting a vacation home contract.

Stay Cool...It's Hot Out There!

Angela Jones
AngelaJonesRealEstate.com

America's Most Expensive Homes

Are you as interested as I am in how the uber-rich live? Check out some of America's Most Expensive Homes. There are quite a few homes featured, from a $165 million dollar mansion in Beverly Hills to a $125 million dollar manor in Greenwich, CT...we can dream can't we?

Have a good week!

Angela Jones
AngelaJonesRealEstate.com