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How to Budget for a Smart Doorbell

How to · Home

How to Budget for a Smart Doorbell

Get your front door connected for about $250 without blowing your monthly budget.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $250 before anything else
Across the 0% window $13.89/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $250 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 smart doorbell lets you see who is at your door from your phone, giving you peace of mind whether you are home or out. Installation usually takes about an hour, and you can often find significant discounts on bundles during Black Friday sales.

Before buying, get at least two quotes from local handymen if you are not comfortable wiring it yourself. Compare the cost of the hardware against the labor to ensure you aren't overpaying for the setup.

That 18-month window is a deadline, not free money. If you have any balance left after the 18 months are up, the bank will start charging you interest, which can get expensive fast.

The steps

  1. 01

    Wait for Black Friday

    Retailers drop prices on smart home bundles every November. Set a price alert now so you know when the hardware hits that $250 target.

  2. 02

    Get two quotes

    Call a few local contractors to see what they charge for a simple doorbell swap. Prices for labor can vary wildly, so don't settle for the first number you hear.

  3. 03

    Use your card terms

    If you use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, you get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you break your $250 cost into payments of $13.89 per month.

  4. 04

    Confirm wiring needs

    Check if your home has the right voltage for the doorbell you want. If you don't have existing wires, you will need a battery-powered model, which might change your budget.

  5. 05

    Schedule the pro

    Once the deal is live and the doorbell is in your hands, book your installer. Having your gear ready before they arrive keeps the labor cost down.

  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 really need a professional to install it?

If your home has existing doorbell wiring, it is often a simple swap. If you are not comfortable working with electricity or need to drill into brick, hire a pro to avoid breaking the device or your wall.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% offer early and trigger late fees. Always set up an auto-pay for at least the minimum to keep your account in good standing.

Are there ongoing costs for these doorbells?

Most smart doorbells require a monthly subscription to save your video footage in the cloud. Factor that $3 to $10 a month into your long-term home budget.

Is the cheapest doorbell always the best deal?

Not necessarily. Check the video resolution and field of view before buying, as a cheap doorbell that doesn't let you see packages on the ground might be a waste of money.