Getting Keys to the Guest (Check in/Check out)...What is your Process?

[Alie3]

Having trouble with this one. What is the best way to operate a checkin checkout if you would like to do it both in person and remotely (with but really, without a smart lock?) Anyone?

[Emiel1]

@Alie3,

So you want to check-in/check-out the guests in person AND remotely ?

I would prefer handing over the keys in person, it gives the opportunity to meet,to give some explanation and, when leaving, you be sure you get the keys back.

Best regards,

Emiel

[Ann72]

You could use a lock box and put the key in it.  MasterLock makes an electronic lock box (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071NQ9G3Q/ref=sxr_rr_xsim_1?pf_rd_p=9ddc66f6-9fc0-49ff-b2fa-06a39d9859e6&...

You need to get a non-Airbnb email address for every guest (I mean, you could use the Airbnb email address, but it's about a thousand characters long).  Enter the email address and their phone number in the app and they'll get an invitation.  You can set the start date and time and end date and time of their reservation so they can't access the box before or after.   They need to download the app and have the bluetooth turned on on their phones when they get there.  They'll get a code and be able to open the box and let themselves in.

I used it for the first time last season and it's pretty easy once you get the routine of it.  And I was surprised no one forgot to put the key back!  Two people were technology-challenged and just couldn't manage it, so I gave them each my own code and it was fine.  I host remotely and can't be there to greet people and let them in.

[Mark1128]

Using a smart lock is the best option.  I have 50 properties that I host in Colorado, and keys are simply a nightmere!

By using a smart lock that is connected to the internet you can easily add and remove codes at will.  The ability to add a code on the fly for a service person is awesome!  Also, the ability to remove codes is critical in my mind.  I don't want keys floating around from past guest stays, and I don't want to have to change the locks everytime a guest doesn't return a key, so each guest having their own personalized code works the best.  

I make the code the last four digits of the guests mobile phone number, so it's easy for them to remember.  Then, I remove it at check out.  All very simple using my lock app.

For the last decade i've used Schlage locks with the Zwave technology.  And mynexia.com to connect via their bridge that plugs into the internet router and syncs with the lock.

However, there are some better options that have come out in the last year or so.

Virtual Key is one to look at using a Yale brand electronic lock.

And there are plenty others.

Mark