Using a Lockbox with a Key Instead of Personally Showing Property

Using a Lockbox with a Key Instead of Personally Showing Property

Member since 2019 · 4 posts · 2 votes

Hey BP,

So my rental is about a 1 hour drive from where I live and work. I work full time during the day and can't keep asking for 2 hour blocks of time to go show the unit to prospective tenants. I've tried scheduling viewings after work, but people don't seem to be receptive to it. I guess house hunting is not at the top of the list for people who just got off work themselves. I'm available on weekends, but don't want to miss an opportunity to find a great tenant because I wasn't available to show the property. 

I've got a few realtors in the family who suggested that I use a lockbox with the key inside. The idea is that after verifying their identity, I could just provide the code to the lockbox and people can show themselves around the unit without my presence and lock up once they leave. The only valuables inside are the appliances included with the unit. 

I know this is common practice for realtors, but I wouldn't have anyone on-site to supervise. Obviously, there are many ways this could backfire. Thoughts?

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  • Real Estate Agent · Merritt Island, FL · Member since 2017 · 974 posts · 1k+ votes
    7y

    @Paul Teske - the best advice is that you hire an agent and let him/her handle it. Your situation is a very good example of when NOT to do it yourself. Unless a home is junky (ie, a true fixer upper), I will not use a standard lockbox, only electronic. I am a licensed agent so I have that advantage. For a non-agent like yourself who is that far away, hire a professional. 

  • Member since 2019 · 4 posts · 2 votes
    7y
    Originally posted by @Tchaka Owen:

    @Paul Teske - the best advice is that you hire an agent and let him/her handle it. Your situation is a very good example of when NOT to do it yourself. Unless a home is junky (ie, a true fixer upper), I will not use a standard lockbox, only electronic. I am a licensed agent so I have that advantage. For a non-agent like yourself who is that far away, hire a professional. 

     You're probably right. I just can't get comfortable with the idea of letting complete strangers in without any supervision. 

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