Common Objections to Residential Alarm Systems Sales

Safemart, an online, direct-to-consumer e-tailer of security systems released what it considered consumers' top 10 myths about home security systems. The list, which was released through a press release service aimed at the consumer audience, is an interesting look at the objections that security systems sales face every day. From beliefs that the systems are prohibitively expensive to concerns of false alarms or that wireless systems are unreliable, Safemart sought to shed a little light on the myths perpetuated about electronic residential security systems. If you're selling, you've probably heard these objections, too.

Reprinted below are Safemart's "myths" and how their company tries to overcome those sales objections:

1. A home security system will cost me a bundle
It may if you don't do your research first, but it doesn't have to. Compare different companies and the systems they offer, and you will soon find many affordable options, especially in the area of self-installed systems. Many of these systems require minimal investment of time and money, and can even decrease your homeowner's premium.

2. Alarm systems require a service contract
A common misunderstanding, and most likely the result of the prominent advertising by companies that do require contracts. However, securing your home can be as simple as purchasing a system, installing it, and letting it do its job — without committing yourself to a service contract.

3. Systems must be professionally installed
Installation is a matter of simple wiring and basic programming skills, and can be done by most homeowners, especially those with a "do it yourself" mindset.

4. Alarm System Monitoring is costly
Should you decide to have your alarm system monitored, affordable options are readily available. SafeMart.com offers alarm system monitoring for only $9 per month, with no contract required.

5. My pet will cause false alarms
Alarm system manufacturers know that almost 70% of US homes have one or more pets, and they design their systems accordingly. Motion detectors with pet-immunity are just one example of how alarm systems can be effective while accommodating pet owners.

6. My home isn't a target for intrusion
Perhaps you live in the country and are always home. Or for some other reason you believe you don't need home security or safety products. Firstly, consider that burglars are simply looking for unprotected valuables, not a nice urban setting. Secondly, burglary is not the only consideration. Home safety products such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are critical for any home.

7. Hardwiring an existing home is impossible
Running wires in an existing home is possible. There is duct cover that you can use to hide wire runs, or you can run it above or below the areas you are looking to secure.

8. Wireless alarms are unreliable
Another common misunderstanding. While it may have been true in the past, advancements in technology have made wireless alarm systems a very stable and reliable option. For example, unique radio signals are now used with wireless systems to remedy the problem of frequency interference.

9. Programming is complicated
If you can program a VCR or operate a computer, you can program an alarm system. Like anything that is new, there is a slight learning curve to overcome, but the documentation that is included with every panel is written in a way that is easy to understand.

10. Intruders can easily disable the alarm
Hardwired systems are always a good choice if you are concerned about intruders disabling your alarm system. But this doesn't mean that wireless is a bad choice. With the use of wireless keypads and keychain remotes, you can place your wireless alarm system in a secured area of your home and still have convenient access points to arm and disarm your system.