Self-showings in Rougher Parts of The City: is it worth it or asking for trouble?

Question

I've got a few vacant units in the rougher parts of Cleveland's east side, and I'm tempted to switch to self-showings (Rently, smart lock, whatever) to offer instant showings and cut down on operating expenses.

That said, I'm genuinely worried about theft/vandalism on the unit and liability if someone gets hurt on the property during a showing.

Anyone have advice on rolling out self-showings in higher-crime areas? Appreciate the help!

Henry Lazerow · Answer

I would not do a self unmanned showing anywhere. So many very sophisticated scammers out there, not worth the risk.

Shiloh Lundahl · Answer

For self showings, I always have the potential tenants send me a picture of their ID after they are identify themselves to make sure that the ID matches the person. And then I have their ID if anything goes wrong.

Drew Sygit · Answer

We've been doing Self-Showings in Class C & D areas for 7+ years.

Comments:1) Scheduling software is a MUST - even for guided showings as reduces phone calls & SMS2) Do NOT just use a lockbox - unless code can be changed daily!3) We started out using Codeboxes, switched to keypad access almost 3 years ago because too many keys; went missing, we're locked inside home, dropped under decks, etc.4) We visit each self-showing property weekly to make sure; secure, check lock batteries, see if any prospects left a "surprise" in the toilet (happens often in Class C/D areas😞)5) Not sure if cost of a self-showing system will be cost-effective for a small DIY owner.

Marc Winter · Answer

Remote showings?  Sure!

As long as that means a great quality walk-through video you send to the prospect.  After they see the video and make application, then show in person.

If you do an actual remote showing, you're saying 'here's the lockbox combo and the key to the house. Please lock up when you leave.'  You have just opened the home to a stranger/s.  Now, I love people, but I do not trust 'the public'.

For a short time we tried that remote showing honor system, and ended up with open lockboxes, stolen keys, toilets used and not flushed--and worse, but not detailing that here.

If you must do remote showings, have video cameras on 24/7 recording everywhere.  Make sure to post notice about the cameras, and KNOW WHO IS ENTERING AND LEAVING.  Good luck.

Jim Johnson · Answer

I’d still consider self-showings, but I’d put more controls around access in those areas rather than rule them out completely.

At minimum, I’d want:

• ID verification before access
• A unique code that only works during the scheduled window
• A log of exactly who accessed the property and when
• Nothing easily removable left in the unit
• Someone checking the property regularly between showings
• Confirmation that my insurance is comfortable with the setup

I’d probably test it on one unit first rather than roll it out across everything. If the added showings and faster leasing actually outweigh the extra monitoring and risk, then expand it. If I’m constantly dealing with access issues or damage, the labor savings aren't really savings anymore.

Golan Corshidi · Answer

Shit, thats definitely the main thing im trying to avoid here. Thanks the feedback.

Golan Corshidi · Answer

@Drew Sygit awesome! Thank you for the feedback. We have 75 doors now so we are looking into this as showings are taking up a lot of time. Makes sense we'll probably use rently or rent engine to assist with that and no keys.

Drew Sygit · Answer

Not sure Rent Engine has a keyless option, so look at ShowMojo.

Golan Corshidi · Answer

@Marc Winter thanks for the reply. Makes sense our local guy suggested cameras as well. We'll try that out!

Self-showings in Rougher Parts of The City: is it worth it or asking for trouble?

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