Home & Wealth | July 2025

SMART DEVICES TO PROTECT YOUR HOME  
  Smart home sensors protect your home and save you money by detecting problems before they turn into disasters. Some work by themselves, connecting to the internet over Wi-Fi, so you can control them from your phone through a companion app. Some also work with smart home hubs, such as Amazon Echo Hub, Apple TV 4K, Google Nest Hub, Samsung SmartThings Station, or Homey Pro. All notify your smartphone, and many also work with smart speakers, giving you voice notifications and letting you ask about your status.  
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Home security devices. These include high-resolution, weather-resistant outdoor security cameras that capture motion-triggered videos and send alerts that differentiate between people, pets, vehicles, and other moving objects. Smart motion sensors detect open doors or windows and can also be put on refrigerator and garage doors to make sure they’re closed, and on child gates to keep toddlers safe. Video doorbells let you see who’s there no matter where you are, and record videos of people approaching your door while you’re away. Smart locks are convenient, and let you monitor who is entering and leaving your home when you’re away. Professionally monitored smart home security systems provide the highest level of security. 
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Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Conventional smoke alarms are essential for every home, but you only hear them when you are there. Smart smoke alarms will notify your smartphone when you’re out, so you can call 911 sooner to protect your home and neighborhood. Some smart smoke alarms also include a smart carbon monoxide alarm that will notify you to call 911 if carbon monoxide is at a dangerous level. 
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Leak detectors. Water is the biggest cause of home damage. Smart leak sensors catch leaks before they flood the area. Place near sinks, washing machines, dishwashers, hot water heaters, fish tanks, and sump pumps. Some devices detect temperature changes too. Heating and cooling sensors. Connected thermostats regulate your thermostat year-round, and notify you of temperature changes in critical locations, such as baby rooms and pet enclosures. Some connect to smart speakers and can be connected to freeze and motion detectors. 
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Freeze detectors. Frozen water is a large source of damage to homes. Frozen water pipes burst, destroying walls, floors, furniture, and basements. Some smart freeze sensors check the air temperature around the object they’re monitoring, and others put probes on it. When placed on an incoming water line, the sensor notifies you when the temperature drops. Other sensors measure water flow to detect ice forming, send an alert, and trip a shut-off valve. Some freeze sensors also work with home security systems. 
The Jim Passi Team at Citywide Home Loans proudly serves Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Georgia and Flordia. If you are looking to buy a home or refinance, we have you covered. Apply Now to get started.
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Jim Passi - Citiwide Home Loans

Jim Passi
Regional Manager
NMLS# 158000

1121 E. Main Street, Suite 121
St. Charles, IL 60174
Mobile: 847-899-1813
Email: jim.passi@alamedamortgage.com

Matt K. Testimonial

I just wanted to send you a quick note on my recent refinance with your company. I was extremely pleased with how quick and easy it was to refinance with you. Everyone knows that when you are self-employed like myself that refinancing can take much longer and be an aggravating process but you and Tom made the refinance so simple I would highly recommend your company to my friends and family.   As you know, I am an attorney practicing in real estate and have seen many of my clients struggle during the mortgage process in obtaining a loan but seeing how efficient and quick your company was I know I will be recommending you as their lender. Again, thanks for your professionalism in this regards.

Matt K.