The thing is with home security systems, nothing much has changed. At the same time, everything has changed.

In one important respect, home security alarms still perform the simple function of warning homeowners, while they're out of the house, of folks lurking at doors and windows, trying to gain unlawful access. In many other important respects, home security systems now come equipped with bells and whistles that make the old-fashioned systems seem like cow bells in the wind.

New TowlesCorp homes feature top-shelf systems that include 100 percent cellular monitoring, crash and smash protection, remote access, thermostat, light and video control, phone, email and text alerts, and insurance savings. If it's state-of-the-art, TowlesCorp homes come equipped with it.

There's another feature offered in TowlesCorp homes: central vacuum systems. They might have nothing to do with security, but they have plenty to do with bells and whistles. Want to clean up some cat hair? Central vacuum systems will clean up an entire house at the plug-in of a hose.

Both offer more creature comforts, more convenience.

Remote access is the big thing with home security systems - TowlesCorp has been using DSC products for 20 years. Any electronic smart device will do the trick. Say you're on the 10^th tee. You can whip out your trusty smart phone, log in, and set the system. Video access allows you to see what's going on, not just respond to a vague warning.

With central vacuum systems, say goodbye to Dyson and say hello to Vacuflo, a high-end product that is made in the USA and carries a lifetime warranty on its motors. The homeowner simply plugs a hose into a wall and everything gets sucked into a unit installed in the garage. It keeps the house a lot cleaner than standard vacuums and is much, much easier on the back. Dump it out every four to five weeks and spend the rest of the time playing tennis. It's great for people with allergies and medical conditions that require a dependably clean environment.