Install a smart lock on a bedroom door or keep it keyed?

[Bruce P.]

Hi,

So I'm getting started renting out rooms. I'm thinking to make one an Airbnb and the other a long term rental. In either case, I think it might be a nice amenity for a guest to have a lock on their door to "feel safe".

1) Should I use smart locks on all the bedroom doors (keyless) or use a different keyed lock on each bedroom door?

2) If you think "yes" for smart locks, what do you think of this smart lock - https://www.amazon.com/Advanced-Security-TurboLock-Keyless-Keypad/dp/B06WW2HHZC/ref=asc_df_B06WW2HHZC/ ?  The main feature it has that I like is a "master code" (for an owner) and then custom codes for the tenant. I'm looking for one that allows me to program the locks from the comfort of my computer which I imagine must exist.  But I'm also trying to be conservative with money.

3) If you think "no" for smart locks, what kind of keyed lock(s) should I get?

Does anyone have any other suggestions?

[Michael Baum]

I don't like the look of that lock. No name brand, no history etc. I like the idea of the smart lock on each door.

I would take a look at the Schlage smart locks. I use that in our home on the main entrance. Works great. Zero issues and the 9v battery has lasted almost a year at this point. It is still at 60 percent. I am going to swap it out when I head over next week.

It runs off Z Wave interface so you will have to set that up. Easy to do. I use a Wink 2. WiFi eats batteries as the radio uses a ton more power. 

Very easy to manage the lock codes. Open remotely just in case etc.

It will be more expensive, but I believe it will be worth it. Better to spend a little more now and not have issues in the long term.

https://www.schlage.com/en/home/smart-locks.html