Need help building/picking a new system

[widget77]

The more I read about home automation the more there is to read.  So I'm looking for some advice from you all on what I should go about looking into or buying.  I looked at Vera and saw VeraLite is compatible with like 100+ things.  I don't know much about HomeSeer and I guess there CQC.
 
The ideal setup is a non-security system but we'd like just just automate a few things.  Thermostat, window shades, motion sensor, ceiling fan, lights, cameras, door lock.  Just kind of the basics, nothing to fancy.  We'd be open to run it from its native program or from an integrated software where you could run everything through one thing.
 
I currently have no system and just internet.  Don't have a dedicated computer to use as a server.
 
Looking for advice and help.  Thanks.  =)
 
EDIT - 
 
Thinking an Amazon Echo, Vera and an Ecobee 3 thermostat for starters.
 
Any suggestions for door locks or window shade runners that run well with Vera?

 

[Dean Roddey]

The cost of a wee computer to put in the closet as an automation server would be trivial within the overall context of the other hardware involved.

 

[LarrylLix]

Here is an overview of communication techniques.

http://cache.insteon.com/pdf/INSTEONCompared.pdf

 

[zenix]

Since you are starting from scratch, you should take a look at the Lutron systems as well. RadioRA 2 can do most of what you want, or for less money you could have DIY level system with Caseta and HomeKit.
 
http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Products/Pages/WholeHomeSystems/RadioRA2/Components.aspx
http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Products/Pages/SingleRoomControls/CasetaWireless/Components.aspx

 

[bbrendon]

You might find one of these useful at some point. http://static2.zotac.com/typo3temp/pics/673c9da8d0.jpg