An electronic lockbox is a secure device that holds your house key and allows real estate agents to access your home for showings. Lockboxes are safe, trackable, and provide a record of every agent who accesses your home. They are standard equipment for most listings.
Types of Lockboxes
The most common lockbox is the electronic, Bluetooth-enabled lockbox used by Supra and SentriLock. Agents access the lockbox using a smartphone app or a specialized key device. The lockbox records the date, time, and agent ID of every access. Some models use a keypad code that the agent enters through their MLS-authorized app.
Older models use a combination dial that requires a code to open. These are less secure and less common now. Electronic lockboxes are the industry standard because they provide an audit trail and can be controlled remotely by the listing agent.
Security Features
Electronic lockboxes offer several security features. Every access is logged with the agent's name, license number, date, and time. The lockbox can be programmed to only work during specific hours. The listing agent can remotely disable the lockbox if needed. The lockbox can be set to expire automatically after the listing period ends. These features ensure that only authorized agents can access your home and that you have a complete record of who has been there.
For added security, you can require that agents show their ID and check in through a showing service before accessing the lockbox. Your agent can also set showing instructions that require confirmation before each showing.
Where to Place the Lockbox
Lockboxes are typically placed on the front door handle, a front porch railing, or a secure hook near the entrance. The location should be visible but not obstructive. Your agent will install the lockbox when the listing goes live and remove it when the home sells or the listing expires.
