Lots of people are getting extra income from AirBnB, but this type of side business comes with its own challenges. For example, guests may arrive while you are away at the office or on vacation. Maybe you live far away from the other properties you own. How do you give the keys to your guests when you can’t be physically present? Here are a few strategies that can be used for AirBnb apartment key exchange:
Hidden Keys
The usual tactic is to hide keys somewhere around the house or the unit. This is also used by homeowners to make sure they always have spare keys in case they find themselves locked out of their own house. However, this can be a risky move as thieves may anticipate it. It is such a popular way of doing things that would-be intruders are likely to look around the usual places like planters, mailboxes, outdoor rugs, and the like.
Helpful Friends
A more secure solution is to give the keys to a friend, a neighbor, a cleaning staff, or somebody else that you trust. Have them meet the guest for you and provide the keys. They might even be able to give a tour and answer questions. This would make the guests feel more welcome. The problem is that not everyone has people that they can rely on all the time for this kind of favor.
Key Exchange
An alternative would be to use a AirBnb apartment key exchange service offered by different networks. These are usually anchored on chains of restaurants and coffee shops. Just provide your guests with a one-time code and it will allow them to retrieve the keys. Since these shops are open from early in the morning until late at night, their arrival time should not be an issue. Owners and guests never have to worry.
Lock Boxes
Another strategy is to use lock boxes that are placed near the unit itself. Guests just have to enter a code to unlock this and get the keys. Others may remove the old mechanical locks and replace them with new smart locks which can be opened directly using code or card. These may be remotely controlled via phone using an app. You need to find a smart lock that has excellent security features to prevent unauthorized entry.
Pick an exchange solution based on your needs and your level of comfort with technology.
