Z-Waver

This sort of response doesn't help the next guy with your question.

I use a brightener automation in a few locations. For hardware I use a Z-Wave dimmer and a motion sensor.

At sunset+offset the lights come on to a 25% dim level. If the light is on and motion is detected, the dimmer is set to 100%. If motion stops, the motion sensor has a 1 minute no-motion window, then wait 2 minutes and set dim level to previous level.

I have no idea how to do this in Apple. IFTTT should absolutely be able to do it. But, why layer on more cloud dependency? Start your local controller journey.

HomeSeer, openHAB, HomeAssistant... there are many good controllers available that integrate a large amount of the various smart home devices..

Based on how you said that you had too many different apps, I'm thinking that you might have some of the proprietary, cloud only, devices. You may need to change some of your existing kit to something more compatible with third-party controllers.

Yes, the sensors are averaged by default.

You can also exclude sensors, for instance excluding the xl850 itself would cause it to use only the remote bedroom sensor.

You can have a relatively high level of security with your home automation. Based on your description so far, you will need a system that offers local control without cloud service reliance. There are several systems HomeSeer, openHAB, Ezlo Hubitat, HomeAssistant, and more, that provide this capability.

I'm afraid I cannot recommend a specific YouTube training series. Most especially with the DIY local only solutions, it is a journey of learning that you must find and follow for yourself.

Your xl850 supports remote temperature sensors and can do what you want. Have a look at ZSENS930AW

You didn't specify exactly which Trane system you got, but I'd bet a dollar that the Ecobee can also be configured to run with that system rather than reliance on the xl850.

I prefer the xl850 to the Ecobee, but because of my particular climate, my thermostat requirements are significantly lower than many people. I simply do not require a lot of home automation control over the thermostat.

I'd love to see your review of your HomeAssistant experience.

But, I know I will never see it because it will be down voted to the depths of hell on this sub.

I'm still trying to figure out if the HA schilling in this sub is organic, based on single experience, Reddit echo chamber, price(free), or Nabu Casa funded "click" farming. Something is up and it's not a matter of vast superiority.

Knowing when the bins are at the curb might be doable. But would it not be easier to know when the bins are NOT in their normal parking spot?

How about attaching a magnetic alarm switch to the bins at park? You could use a magnetic alarm switch, a little length of wire, and a Z-Wave(or other) door/window sensor.

Glue the magnet to the bins. Magnetically stick the sensor to the magnet. When the bins get pulled out, the sensor disconnects and changes the sensor state. You can then re-attach the magnet when the bins come in.

Simple. Cheap. Could be effective.

Homeseer is good. Great features.
Zooz is pushing into the market hard. They seem good, but my experience is limited(short).
Leviton are good.
GE/Enbrighten are decent.
Nortek/Linear/GoControl are good, but paddles are flimsy.

Over a decade in and this has not been my experience.

My personal setup is composed almost entirely of Z-Wave devices, with a small few WiFi connected devices. All of my devices work without internet access. There is no cloud dependency, except for remote access when I'm on the road and notifications. Over the years, I have swapped out controllers because I just wanted to try a different controller, or some other reason. But, regardless of controller, I have not experienced the deterioration that you report.

I have had a small few individual devices fail and require replacement. But, the overall system continues to function well.

I would guess that your deterioration is caused by a few factors. Things such as disparate systems, cloud connectivity, and WiFi issues are a common source of unreliability.