Vacation Rental Tools - Locks, Lights, and Listing Sites

[Aaron Norris]

Potentially going into escrow in a property that will be a vacation rental. This would be a first for me and need some help with some tools and resources to make my life easier.

Key-Less Locks

I've seen things like Resort Lock which allows you to update codes for renters to have access to the property but only after a specific time. This alleviates the hassle of making keys and mailing the all over the place. Anybody have specific experience with any of these keyless entry systems?

Lights and Air Apps

Seeing this property is in Palm Springs, electricity costs can get a little nutty. Are there currently any apps that can control air conditioning and lights remotely to make sure upon check out the renter doesn't leave the air on 50 degrees and all the lights on?

Listing Sites

I've a big fan of AirBnB but I've heard there are other sites I should check out. Can anyone tell me their favorite and experience with any of these. I thought it was interesting that airbnb.com does pictures for you and covers you under a $1 million insurance policy. Is that new?

Thanks BP!