Thanks in advance for any guidance/thoughts. My wife and I just bought a home and I’m completely unsure how to proceed. In summary, I’d like a flexible system that I can choose to have monitored if I want. Now some details:

The home is a 120 year old farmhouse with lots of entry points (20 windows, 3 doors + stand alone garage) former owners had Vintage security (the keypads look ancient and all I can find that’s left are two cameras that seem to only be wired for power so not sure I can reuse) and they recently used Simplisafe (but took everything but the signs).

I previously used Vector and, while happy, I’m not thrilled that they require I buy and register all equipment through them and sign a lengthy contract. However they do provide a good service and they handle the install and any issues. Both Vintage and Vector use Alarm.com.

I’d like to have a system that allows me to expand it and select best of breed hardware (for cameras, door locks, thermostats, etc.) As I expand my smart home,. so Alarm.com appeals to me but I’m frustrated to learn that most local companies that install it will only add equipment to the system that they sell me and then it’s dead hardware if I leave them. For reference, Vector quoted me $2500 to install all the door and window contacts, two cameras, four smoke/fire detectors a garage module, glass break, and a video doorbell), so considering flexibility I looked at Surety as I don’t mind self installing, but I just don’t know much about them and it sounds like their customer service is hit and miss.

I’ve read a lot about Simplisafe and I like the self-install model but I worry too that I’m locked into their ecosystem. Is that correct? Seems like they get a lot of positive reviews here.

So with all that – Any recommendations? An angle or option/provider I’m missing? Finally, I’d prefer a single app to rule them all (or most) but if it’s better to break it up and just look at say, Vector, for windows/door and monitoring and go to others for solutions for video, etc. and then integrate via Home Assistant, I’m open to that too. Sorry to be all over the place. Thanks!