Now that you're familiar with the general home automation scene (read that first if you haven't) we can talk specifics. Like the Control4 system.
(http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/4/2010/12/500x_control4top.jpg)
Control4 is a more entry-level solution to home automation, and they compete mostly with Crestron's Prodigy line, which is also targeted towards lower-budget installs. "Lower budget" is a relative term, obviously, since the starter system I reviewed goes for about $5000, including cost of installation.
Control4 Home Automation Review: Access Anything from Anywhere (http://gizmodo.com/5702651/control4-home-automation-review-access-anything-from-anywhere)