Open Source communities really try my patience sometimes.
Still working on that solution to control my mom's TV remotely. What I had before wasn't able to do everything I needed it to do.
I hound Home Assistant, an open source home automation solution that you can do a lot with. It's very promising.
I'm looking for help on how to do a particular automation so do a Google search. Someone else had the same question..
"Is it possible to do this with HA?"
Answer, "Sure it is, you just need to set it up"
SLLLLAPPP!!!
Also a lot of half assed answers assuming everyone reading is already very familiar with the product.
Ha! Home Assistant was recommended for my needs and almost everything is like "Yeah, it can do that, just configure it!"
WTH?
I'm getting more familiar with it, but it's a steep learning curve. Also it's changing fast, so a post or youtube video from two years ago doesn't apply anymore. I've put in lots of time on it so far.
I have a good initial setup to get started and will be able to add features as time goes on. It also has a build in VPN so can make a secure connection to it. Interface will be simple enough so my brother and sister can also use it.