Throwing two cents in here, but a hard-wired system really is no different from a wireless system, in terms of functionality. They operate pretty much exactly the same. If you've got the money and want to throw down the cash for a lot of remodeling, you
can get a hard-wired system.. But it really doesn't matter.
Frankly, I'm more a fan of a wireless system. It allows a greater deal of positioning for sensors and customizing the security for a home. And you
should be able to plug a wireless sensor directly into a wall outlet to provide it with sufficient power. You
can use batteries, but that probably would be a drawback in the long-term, and I suppose that's the only real advantage to a hard-wired system over a wireless. As I said before, though, if you don't have a hard-wired setup already in place, then you can expect to throw down some serious cash.
Also, I have to agree with those who suggested getting an actively monitored system through a security company. I don't say that because I work for one (though, let's be honest--That probably colors my view just a bit :rofl
but because I really do think it's better that way. As havasue pointed out--Going home to check on each and every alarm can really be frustrating, dangerous, and time-consuming. A monitoring company can handle the major aspects of that for you, moreso if you get some form of CCTV installed in your home. Regarding CCTV in particular, Honeywell has a "Total Connect" system they've rolled out in the last few months. Among other things, it offers the ability to remotely view a live security camera feed from an iPhone. Pretty handy stuff, I think.
Anyway, that's my two cents. Or maybe three-fifty, all things considered. Yay diarrhea of the mouth.