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How to Pay for a Home Security System

How to · Tech

How to Pay for a Home Security System

Secure your house with a $900 DIY sensor bundle for $50 a month without paying interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $900 before anything else
Across the 0% window $50.00/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $900 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A good security system should last you a decade. You want a setup that uses modular sensors so you can add a window or a leak detector whenever you want. Buying a bundle upfront is usually cheaper than picking up pieces one by one. Stick to the basics first and expand as you find gaps in your coverage.

Security companies refresh their hardware every few years. Last year's model is almost always the better buy because the sensors themselves rarely change. You are mostly paying for a slightly faster processor in the base station that you will rarely notice in daily use.

The 0% interest rate is a hard deadline, not free money. If you still owe a balance after the 18 months are up, the interest rate will jump to the standard high APR on whatever amount is left.

The steps

  1. 01

    Map your entry points

    Walk around your house and count every window and door on the ground floor. Most bundles come with five sensors, but you will probably need eight to ten for full coverage. Don't forget the door to the garage.

  2. 02

    Use the 18-month window

    Put the $900 bundle on a Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi). You get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This splits your cost into $50 monthly payments.

  3. 03

    Skip the pro install

    Avoid the $200 installation fee that traditional companies charge. These modern systems use simple adhesive strips and a phone app. If you can level a picture frame, you can set this up in an afternoon.

  4. 04

    Buy last year's base station

    Look for hardware that is one generation old. Security tech does not move as fast as phones do. A base station from two years ago still talks to the newest door sensors just fine and costs much less.

  5. 05

    Choose self-monitoring

    Decide if you want to pay for a pro to watch your feed. Many systems let you monitor everything from your phone for no monthly cost. Only pay the subscription fee if you want a call center to contact the police for you.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do I need to pay a monthly fee?

No, most DIY systems have a free tier where you get alerts on your phone. You only pay a monthly fee if you want 24/7 professional monitoring.

Is it hard to install?

It is mostly peeling and sticking sensors to doors and windows. You do not need a drill or a professional to do this anymore.

Will it work if the Wi-Fi goes out?

Most base stations have a battery backup and a cellular chip. They will keep working for a day or two even if your power or internet cuts out.

Can I take it with me if I move?

Yes, that is the best part of DIY kits. You just peel the sensors off the walls and set them up at your new place.