Busting Home Security Myths — The “Free System” Explained (Austin, Texas)

Three common myths about getting professional burglar alarm monitoring in Austin — and the facts from Avenger Security.

Myth #1: “You must sign a 3–5 year agreement to get set up.”

Fact: You don’t. Many national companies require long-term agreements and run a credit check so they can sell the contract’s future value. Avenger Security does not. We operate with a simple 90-day notice to cancel and no credit check to start home security alarm monitoring services.

Myth #2: “The ‘free’ system is worth $800+.”

Fact: There’s no such thing as a truly free system. Typical residential alarm hardware is far less expensive than the marketing suggests. Basic professional hard-wired systems often cost under $100, and common residential packages are well under $300. If you need cellular because there’s no landline, a 4G LTE communicator is about $100. Advanced interactive communicators (e.g., Alarm.com) average around $150. Long contracts are how “free” gear gets paid for.

Myth #3: “You must replace your existing system to get monitoring.”

Fact: In most cases, you don’t. Professional burglar alarm systems can be defaulted to factory settings and reprogrammed to any UL-listed Central Station. Experienced teams routinely adopt existing hardware and bring it online with a new monitoring provider.

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What Avenger Security Does Differently (Austin, TX)

• No long-term commitment: Just a 90-day written notice to cancel service.
• No credit check: Start service without a hard pull.
• Adopt & reprogram existing systems: We specialize in taking over most professional burglar alarm panels.
• Cloud-based options: Integrated solutions for burglar alarm, fire alarm, access control, and video surveillance.
• Dual-licensed in Texas: Private security and commercial fire alarm.

Recommended Residential Platform

For new residential monitoring, Avenger Security recommends the DSC Neo with Alarm.com for reliable sensors, interactive control, and professional monitoring.

Quick Guide: Do You Really Need New Equipment?

• Probably not if your current keypad, panel, and sensors are in good condition.
• Often yes if your communicator is obsolete (e.g., 3G sunset) — we’ll swap in a modern cellular/IP communicator.
• Definitely yes if hardware is damaged, proprietary-locked, or missing key components.

Why the Myths Persist

Large providers bundle equipment, installation, and marketing costs into long contracts. The “free system” pitch hides those costs in multi-year terms and credit-based valuations. In Austin, you have another path: local, transparent service with flexible terms.

Bottom Line

You don’t need a long contract, a credit check, or a full system replacement to get monitored today. Avenger Security can reprogram most systems, add the right communicator, and bring your home online with no long-term agreement.

Ready to switch?

Avenger Security — Austin, Texas
Call (512) 610-2698 or request a quote to reprogram your existing system and start monitoring on your terms.