Prioritize home security products to strengthen client relationships.
Home security continues to worry homeowners with nearly 90 percent expressing home protection as a concern in a recent survey. Finding opportunities to install home security products is good for your client’s well-being and your business.
Home security products won’t always mean big-ticket sales, but look beyond individual transactions and identify ways to proactively build and maintain client relationships. Showing genuine concern for home security and safety will create a better experience for your clients and inspire them to view you as a trusted partner.
Home security products start with lighting
Especially at night, a well-lit property can decrease the chances of a break in, so educate clients about simple, effective and affordable ways to build out their lighting systems.
One simple but effective home security project is upgrading to motion-sensor lights, including floodlights, garden lights and front entrance lights. Some even have cameras integrated to capture movement as the light is activated. Be sure to stay up to date on the latest home security products and trends so you can educate your clients about the available options.
Advancing technology has made outdoor security cameras more affordable, as well as accurate, efficient and compact.
Invest in outdoor cameras
From easy-to-install, single-unit cameras to closed-circuit networks with DVR capabilities, there are various options for outdoor cameras and systems. Advancing home seceurity technology has made outdoor security cameras more affordable, as well as accurate, efficient and compact. Discuss the benefits of each home security product with clients to help them see what would work best for their homes if they were to consider this upgrade.
Another innovative feature to highlight on cameras is Smartphone compatibility. The cameras send notifications in real time when they detect certain types of motion and allow the user to stream live video of their home on a Smartphone, so they can see what’s happening and take action.
Door security
Devices like Ring Pro connect to the doorbell wiring and feature live audio and video streaming.
Another way to make a positive impact on clients is to identify opportunities to improve door security using advanced smart home technologies. Explain the benefits of new home automation technology, including an increased awareness of what happens in and around the home, convenience and efficiency. Even if your client isn’t interested in improving door security now, they may consider hiring you for future jobs.
Educate clients on using Bluetooth-enabled door locks to control front doors from a Smartphone.
Many of these high-tech locks have a built-in security feature that automatically detects each time the door is opened to prevent unauthorized access, along with the option to manage doors and let guests in while away.
Offer to install a video doorbell so clients can see and speak to visitors from anywhere in the world using a Smartphone or tablet. Devices like Ring Pro connect to the doorbell wiring and feature live audio and video streaming. While it could be a DIY project, many homeowners are intimidated by anything that requires a hardwire installation.
Some smoke alarm models can alert on and be controlled by a Smartphone.
Protection from the elements
With Fire Safety Awareness Month in October, safety is top of mind for many homeowners. Three out of five home fire deaths happen in homes where smoke alarms either weren’t installed or didn’t work.
If you’re called to do another home remodeling project, take a few minutes to check the client’s home for functioning fire safety equipment, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. While they may not pay you to install new home security products, your expertise and consideration will help create a positive experience.
If the smoke alarm needs to be replaced, explain the benefits of installing one with a 10-year sealed lithium-ion battery. Some models by Nest and Kidde can alert on and be controlled by a Smartphone. If you are asked to install new fire safety equipment, take advantage of The Home Depot’s Pro Direct program, which allows you to buy products straight from the manufacturer for an average of 30 percent off shelf prices – plus get free direct-to-jobsite delivery.
There are a growing number of home security products that can help protect from fire. For example, be ready to speak to customers who want to take fire safety a step further about fire-resistant drywall and interior wall insulation.
–By J.T. Rieves, Vice President, Pro Business, The Home Depot
J.T. Rieves, Vice President, Pro Business, has been with The Home Depot for 27 years. During that time he’s held many positions including hourly associate, store manager, district manager, regional vice president and two rotations in the corporate office. Rieves has spent time working in hardware and store operations. He is currently in his fifth year as Vice President, Pro Business.
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