Media for Any tips for a consumer about to purchase a system & contract?

Any tips for a consumer about to purchase a system & contract?

Hello people,

I'm looking to purchase my first alarm system and would welcome any advice you professionals might have WRT selecting a good company and assuring that I'll end up with quality components, service, and installation.

Due to the odd structure of the townhouse, it may be quite challenging to fish wires to the doors and windows, so I'm expecting a wireless solution will be talked about. In addition to the main entrance which is a wood framed metal skinned door, I've got a metal sliding glass door and vinyl windows. I'm thinking fire protection. There really isn't a good place to mount a large panel, so something on the small side would be good. I've got a tiny dog. If based on such a simple description of the environment there would be certain brands or types of solutions I'd want to hear mentioned or not hear mentioned I'd appreciate you pointing them out.

Lastly, if there is anything I should do to assure that I'll have some flexibility down the road... for example, the ability to use the same equipment with a different monitoring company or run it stand alone or whatever... I'd like to know.

Thanks for your time.