Home security has evolved far beyond simple locks and alarm bells. Today’s systems are designed for flexibility, real-time alerts, and seamless integration with other smart devices. For Spokane homeowners—whether living near downtown or in growing suburban neighborhoods—understanding which features matter most can make all the difference when selecting the right system.
From smart sensors to remote access, this guide breaks down the top home security system features every property owner should consider.
1. 24/7 Professional Monitoring
At the core of any reliable system is professional monitoring. This means your home is being watched by a monitoring center around the clock, even when you're not there. In the event of an alert—whether it's a triggered door sensor or smoke detector—trained personnel can quickly dispatch emergency services and attempt to contact the homeowner.
This feature is especially useful for Spokane residents who travel often, own second homes, or simply want added assurance that someone is always on standby to respond. Most reputable providers offer this as a core part of their service plans, and many allow you to choose between self-monitoring and professional coverage.
This feature is especially useful for Spokane residents who travel often, own second homes, or simply want added assurance that someone is always on standby to respond. Most reputable providers offer this as a core part of their service plans, and many allow you to choose between self-monitoring and professional coverage.
2. Smartphone Integration and Mobile Alerts
Being able to monitor and control your security system remotely is no longer a luxury—it’s a standard expectation. With smartphone integration, homeowners can receive instant notifications if a sensor is triggered, view live camera feeds, arm or disarm the system, and even check the status of doors and windows.
For example, if you're out enjoying a weekend at Lake Coeur d'Alene or on a business trip outside Spokane, a quick glance at your phone lets you know your home is secure. Look for systems that offer intuitive apps, customizable alerts, and compatibility with both iOS and Android devices.
For example, if you're out enjoying a weekend at Lake Coeur d'Alene or on a business trip outside Spokane, a quick glance at your phone lets you know your home is secure. Look for systems that offer intuitive apps, customizable alerts, and compatibility with both iOS and Android devices.
3. Door and Window Sensors
These are the foundation of most modern security systems. Door and window sensors notify you if a point of entry has been opened or tampered with. They’re small, discreet, and usually battery-powered, making them easy to install without major modifications to your home.
For added customization, many systems let you name each sensor, so you know exactly where an alert is coming from—whether it’s the back patio door or a basement window. This simple feature provides valuable context in the moment and is a must-have when evaluating top home security features.
For added customization, many systems let you name each sensor, so you know exactly where an alert is coming from—whether it’s the back patio door or a basement window. This simple feature provides valuable context in the moment and is a must-have when evaluating top home security features.
4. Video Doorbells and Outdoor Cameras
Cameras have become one of the most sought-after components in any home security package. Video doorbells allow you to see and speak with whoever’s at your front door, whether you're home or away. They’re great for package deliveries, unexpected visitors, or just peace of mind.
Additionally, outdoor cameras provide real-time views of your property and often include motion-triggered recording, night vision, and cloud storage. In Spokane’s variable weather, it's important to look for weather-resistant options rated for both hot summers and cold winters.
Additionally, outdoor cameras provide real-time views of your property and often include motion-triggered recording, night vision, and cloud storage. In Spokane’s variable weather, it's important to look for weather-resistant options rated for both hot summers and cold winters.
5. Motion Detectors with Smart Zoning
Motion sensors help cover the gaps between doors and windows, detecting movement in hallways, living rooms, or exterior zones. Smart motion detectors now allow you to create “zones,” ignoring routine motion like pets walking through the kitchen while still responding to unexpected activity.
When combined with indoor cameras or lighting systems, motion detection can automate other responses—like turning on lights or recording video. In homes with multiple entry points or open floor plans, motion detection adds another layer of security and convenience.
When combined with indoor cameras or lighting systems, motion detection can automate other responses—like turning on lights or recording video. In homes with multiple entry points or open floor plans, motion detection adds another layer of security and convenience.
6. Glass Break Sensors
While door and window sensors detect entry points being opened, glass break sensors listen for the sound frequency of shattering glass. This feature is particularly valuable for homes with large windows or sliding glass doors—a common architectural feature in many Spokane properties.
Glass break sensors typically cover an entire room, making them a strong complement to traditional sensors in living areas or sunrooms. They're discreet and often wireless, easily installed on ceilings or walls.
Glass break sensors typically cover an entire room, making them a strong complement to traditional sensors in living areas or sunrooms. They're discreet and often wireless, easily installed on ceilings or walls.
7. Smoke, CO, and Environmental Sensors
Home security isn't just about deterring intrusions—it’s also about protecting your home from hazards. Many top-tier systems now offer environmental sensors that detect smoke, carbon monoxide, or even flooding from a broken pipe or appliance leak.
Spokane’s winter temperatures mean burst pipes can be a concern in unoccupied or lower-level areas. Sensors that alert you to rising water in a basement or sudden temperature drops give you time to act before serious damage occurs. Integrating these detectors with your system adds year-round protection against multiple types of emergencies.
Spokane’s winter temperatures mean burst pipes can be a concern in unoccupied or lower-level areas. Sensors that alert you to rising water in a basement or sudden temperature drops give you time to act before serious damage occurs. Integrating these detectors with your system adds year-round protection against multiple types of emergencies.
8. Smart Home Integration
Many homeowners want their security systems to work with the devices they already use—smart locks, thermostats, lights, and voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home. Systems that offer seamless integration make it easier to create automated routines. For example, arming your system could trigger the lights to turn off and the thermostat to adjust automatically.
This convenience goes beyond security and into overall home efficiency. Whether you're building a smart home from scratch or adding layers to an existing setup, integration is one of the top home security system features buyers and tech-savvy homeowners are prioritizing.
This convenience goes beyond security and into overall home efficiency. Whether you're building a smart home from scratch or adding layers to an existing setup, integration is one of the top home security system features buyers and tech-savvy homeowners are prioritizing.
Finding the Right System for Your Spokane Home
The right home security system is one that fits both your property and your lifestyle. A downtown condo might prioritize smart locks and video doorbells, while a larger home in Spokane Valley could benefit more from outdoor cameras, environmental sensors, and motion detectors.
As technology evolves, so do the options. Choosing a system with the top home security features ensures your investment is future-proof, customizable, and ready to adapt to your needs.
As technology evolves, so do the options. Choosing a system with the top home security features ensures your investment is future-proof, customizable, and ready to adapt to your needs.
Secure Your Next Move with Avenue Stone Real Estate
Looking for a home in Spokane with built-in security features—or planning to install a system before listing your property? The team at Avenue Stone Real Estate offers local expertise to help you find or sell a home that checks all the boxes. From smart home upgrades to features that add value, they’re here to guide you through every step of your real estate journey with confidence.
