Basic newbie selecting initial set up pieces

[IOT7712]

Is any of the discussion posted here but a short time ago relevant to your needs?

Help a Beginner Set Up His New Home

I just moved into a new home and am looking to move into the Home Assistant world after very lightly playing with Google Home and SmartThings. I am reaching out to ask for hardware recommendations for how I should move forward. I am looking to accomplish the following: Set up a professionally monitored security system Control some lighting Control some appliances Perform light automations Integrate exterior security systems (possibly including doorbell cam) Stay away from use of 3rd party ap…