Not All Lock Boxes Are Created Equal
John McCormack's recent post talks about showing houses to a client, and finding an unlocked vacant home. Even as an appraiser, it'a always an uneasy feeling coming across an unlocked home. Please leave any comments on John's post, I'm sure he would like that.
Not All Lock Boxes Are Created Equal
Yesterday I posted about a home I had shown on Sunday that had been left unlocked most likely by the prior showing agent. After reading the comments we all seem to agree it was unacceptable. It did leave me wondering about lock-boxes and the types that Realtors® and boards are using across the U.S. See You Opened It, Surely You Can Lock It!Several years ago our local board elected to use the Supra e-key infrared electronic type boxes which I think they are excellent. When an agent accesses on of my boxes on a listing, it is automatically and immediately sends me an email that the box was opened as well as the exact time and who that agent is. I now have the agents name, contact information and time of showing of the particular address. If I want to request feedback it only takes a few seconds and a couple of key strokes. Likewise if there is a problem with the home after the fact I have a permanent record to support my case. These boxes can also be modified for any specific time interval. Typically an agent can't access until after 9:00am and not later than say 8:00pm. It will not work unless within the time constraints.
When I take a new listing I simply explain to my seller exactly how these boxes work which helps them feel much more secure. I further explain that it is imperative that they request any agent open the lock box even if they are home. This way I have a record and don't have to rely on a business card (they may or may not have left) to get the contact information.
Using this type of key box could not be more simple, I pull out my iPhone, go to my ekey App, enter my pass code that tells the system who I am, then point at the receiver window of the lock box wait for connection and Voila, the key container drops and I have a front door key. Yes it works with Droid as well.These types of boxes are about $100.00 each but they are nearly indestructible and the technology is is great. I have on a couple of occasions got a call from an agent wanting to show a listing stating the key is missing, I can then pull up the key data immediately call the last showing agent to find out what happened to the house key. It's usually in their pocket.
I know we’re on tighter budgets these days but in my opinion these computerized lock-boxes are well worth the $100 bucks. It's easy, effective and keeps everyone honest. So... What type of lock-box do you use?
You Opened it.... Surely you can lock it
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John McCormack Owner/Managing Broker, e-PRO
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