Lock Box or no Lock Box

[Edward Smith]

Quick questions BP. I purchased a home that's about 2 hours from me. I've sold a couple of homes in this same area. The ones that I whole-sold have all had lock boxes on them and it has never been an issue. Since I plan on keeping this one would it be still be ok to put a lock box on it and collect the DL from every one viewing it? Or would that be to inviting to scammers. Thoughts opinions advice?

[Mitch Messer]

Hey @Edward Smith. We've been "showing" houses via lockbox for over a decade. Once you get a system, you'll never go out to show a house again!

Do it by appointment only: Do not just give out the code. Get a name, cell phone and email from everyone who wants to see inside. Don't tell them about the lockbox, just say someone will get them inside at the appointed time. Call them at the set time and, if they are at the house, talk them through getting into the lockbox. Have them call you back when they are done so you can help them lockup. Tell them that someone else is coming to see the home after them, but that they have about 30 minutes. Give them 20 minutes and then call if you haven't heard from them. When they are done, walk them through turning off any lights, locking all doors, and returning the key to the lockbox.

Be sure to use the push-button numerical lockbox that connects the key to the removable access face-plate, rather than the kind that dispenses the key all by itself. That way you'll avoid folks losing the key or taking it with them.