Posted by I am planning to get a home security system and after weighing on my option between a monitored system from a DIY security system, I’ve decided to go for a DIY. I thought it would be more economical for me to do it than having some company do it for me and make me pay for every sweat on their foreheads. My neighborhood is also very peaceful and has not seen crime done for quite some time now. We also live in the better part of the city. I also installed security measures like adding more locks on my doors and windows, installing light sensors to almost every corner in my home, more outdoor light fixtures, more smoke and CO2 detectors, door jambs, even timers…but I do not sleep soundly. I wake up at night worried that somebody might be breaking in. My wife told me that a security system might do the job.
I made a little research and now I am ready to go buy. I saw several ads but I really do not need expensive systems. I looked on amazon, then saw what seems to be good buys on ebay. They offer packages with several door/window alarms, motion sensors, sirens, main panel with auto dialer, etc. and they are wireless. I am refraining a bit from buying now coz I am not sure if these systems are reliable and the sellers trustworthy.
Has anyone bought home security systems from ebay? How are they? The feedback from the buyers are mostly good, but Im still holding back. Any help?
22 hours ago – 3 days left to answer.
Great question, what you find on ebay will differ on some points. There are a wide variety of systems for sale. You are doing the right thing with going for one that is well reviewed. See if you can find some reviews on Amazon as well for the equipment. On a DIY system, try to get one that is compatible with many monitoring companies. The GE Simon is one such system but there are others as well. Be wary of products shipping directly from outside of the US. Only buy from an ebay seller with good feedback. Home security systems are good. Cameras are good too, to watch the house when you are not there. Here is what some of the images look like in the dark:
http://www.teepeetech.com/home-security-systems/night-vision-security-cameras-outdoor-security-cameras-25.html
Also, consider buying a dog. A small indoor dog will let you know when someone is trying to get into the house, but don’t buy one if you have little children (especially don’t buy an older dog).
Also, you could get a driveway alarm, which will let you know when someone is in your driveway:
http://www.teepeetech.com/driveway-alarm-system
If you buy a gun, take a good course on how to use it. Have your wife go too. The dog is one of the best things you can do and the alarm system.
You watch way too much TV. You are paranoid. You don’t need this system. What you have is plenty.