JUST LOOK UNDER THE DOOR

There’s no place like home. Really, there isn’t. How we live, how our memories are made, and how we choose to enjoy ourselves revolves a lot of the time around our homes.

Growing up in a semi-rural environment, with neighbours a decent way away and a few big dogs keeping a semi-watchful eye on our house, I can’t truthfully recall a time where keys were necessary. Of course, we had them; but in all honesty, they were seldom used. This was not because we were lazy, but thankfully because of where we were located, how often someone was home and the neighbourhood we lived in. Using keys just wasn’t always a necessity. It’s amusing to reflect on how lax we once were, especially considering how accessible and affordable home security and home tech products are now.

For many reasons, the days of leaving the back door unlocked, or popping a spare key under the pot plant by the front door, are gone. Thankfully, to assist, technology has forged forward from bolt locks to smart phones, connecting all aspects of property at the touch of a finger.

Would I go out without locking my house now?

Absolutely not. But times are different, and I live in a very different area now. In fact, we’ve not long installed a security camera system in our house and not just because my husband loves this stuff. Moreso, because it gives us peace of mind.

It’s a common discussion in our household –technology, that is. You see, the idea of smart tech and home security for my husband – an electrician – is fascinating. For me, I’m quite happy not to have another app on my phone in order to turn the lights on/off; but truth is, there are benefits to incorporating technology into our homes and lives. While our tech knowledge is vastly different, the importance of ensuring our family home is safe and secure remains an important and open topic for discussion.

Growing immensely in popularity over the last few years, home automation can help us manage what’s important in our properties and protect what we hold dear, and best of all, it no longer costs the earth. Depending on what level of security and capability you’d like in your home, there’s something for everyone. From a buyer or renter perspective, it’s often a welcome added addition.

Home hubs give properties a centralised point, where entertainment, news, schedules and calendars are accessible to everyone in the home. These can be fixed or transferrable, depending on what device you are using.

Where they start to level up is by connecting home security, locks, lighting, window covering, heating/cooling… these can all be controlled by the touch of a finger.

Regardless of whether someone is in the house, or everyone is away, the ability to visually check on your own home whenever you feel the need adds a new level of comfort. Even merely the presence of cameras and alarms can be enough to deter unwanted intruders.

Home security systems are not a new concept, but the advancement of their capability and integration with home automation has come forward in leaps and bounds.

Not all home tech and security gadgets can be classed in the same category. Some are wacky, some are fun and some are just downright difficult to use. Do your homework before you install. One of the major benefits to the homeowner and user, is the ability to make environmental and economic decisions that best suit your lifestyle. Usability, safety (both in a physical and intellectual property sense) and affordability will play an important part in what works in your home. The key under the doormat just doesn’t cut it anymore!