Best security camera system for a 12 unit 3 Story Apartment

[Suzanne Chan]

We're considering putting up 4-5 cameras interior and exterior for our rectangular shaped apartment. It's 3 stories, with 12 units in Kansas City MO. 

Right now we are in the middle of stabilizing this complex and there are a lot of trespassers and un-wanted guests coming in and out. We are in the process of installing a steel door with a lock code for entrance but need a complete security system.

Right now, we don't have internet but we want it to be cloud based, we do not want to have it saved in a DVR. Since we are out of town, our PM and ourselves would prefer to review the footage remotely. We prefer not to have to pay for internet, is there a hot spot or ability to put in a SIM card? Also, this is a C- class property so I am also afraid they will knock down the cameras, does anyone have experience in this or suggestions? I am hoping that over time, we can see who is letting in the unwanted guests identifying the code and also reviewing the camera. 

Any thoughts or suggestions on cameras or companies in KCMO that can install this?

[Laura Williams]

@Suzanne Chan

I went through similar to what you are right now with a 5 plex from hell. Adding the security doors with codes will definitely help alot with people coming in who shouldn't be. Here are some other things I did if this helps you.

 I got high speed internet throughout the whole building (cost was $65/month) and then I offered it as a perk to all the tenants. Over time this helped me attract better tenants to the building cause other buildings don't offer this.  Then I bought Wyze cameras and put them up everywhere & linked it on the new building internet....like 12 cameras...everywhere I could stick one I put it inside and outside. They cost about $25 each on Amazon so if someone steals them who cares. They do need to be plugged in to an outlet.  So for most of them I put in those special light bulbs that you can plug a cord into and ordered long cords & hung them up high...not the most attractive way but it is a lower income rental building so doesn't need to be pretty. You can also just have your PM handyman install them. You don't need to pay a specialist.

Then I shared the camera codes with my property mngt and also with 2 of my best tenants there so they could help keep an eye on the building and if any riff raff came on the property they could yell out at them through the cameras to go away without being put in a dangerous situation. The tenants actually kept a better eye on the cameras then I was able to & were invested in it.

The other thing I did was to offer discounts on the rent whenever a unit came vacant to anyone who is/was a cop or in the military. I got 2 ex marines in the building now and they took care of the leftover hoodlums the first couple weeks they moved in. Plus now there's American flags everywhere in the windows which also sends a signal to people thinking to break in.

Good luck with everything and hope it all works out ;)