Airbnb Key Lockbox: A Primer for Renters
What happens when your Airbnb guests arrive and you can’t be there to check them in?
Investing in an Airbnb key lockbox can make the initial check-in safe, efficient, and easy – for you and your guests.
This guide covers the basics on Airbnb self-check-in and what you should consider when choosing a lockbox.
The Benefits of an Airbnb Key Lockbox
For the casual homeowner renting out a spare room on Airbnb, checking in your guests yourself makes sense. But for owners with properties in different cities, states, or even countries, it simply isn’t feasible to be physically present for every check-in.
Adding an Airbnb key lockbox to your process is becoming an increasingly popular way to handle the key exchange. These lockboxes can only be opened by those who have a special access code. Once they open the box, they can retrieve the key to the rental property. The reverse process can be used when guests check out.
Lockboxes are huge time-savers for property owners because they don’t have to coordinate check in times or locations with their guests. Renters can retrieve the key and enter the property at their convenience.
It also makes the key exchange process secure. Rather than leaving a key under a mat or in the hands of a neighbor, only the intended users will be able to access it.
Types of Lockboxes
Airbnb owners have several options when choosing a lockbox. The most popular types are
- Wheel locks – a combination entered via multiple scrolling wheels
- Dial locks – a combination is entered by spinning a dial wheel
- Button locks – a code is entered by pushing buttons
The check-in process is simple any each of these lockbox styles. Guests receive the code to the lockbox, which they can enter when they arrive to retrieve the key. To return the key, they simply place the key in the box and secure it.
Lockboxes can range in price, depending on the brand and where you purchase it. Most home improvement, major retailers, and hardware stores will have a variety of lockboxes to choose from. Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from $25 to $50 for a box that can hold up to five keys.
Best Practices for Using an Airbnb Key Lockbox
Lockboxes can be a secure, convenient way for guests to self-check in or out of the rental, provided you follow a few best practices:
Change Your Lockbox Code Often
Ideally, you should use a new code for every guest. This way, only the current guest has access to the property so you can mitigate your risk.
Keep Your Lockbox Hidden
Make sure your lockbox isn’t visible from a main road or outside of a gate. Keeping your lockbox discreet can also help you keep it safe.
Set Clear Expectations
Let your guests know how to use the lockbox, including how to return the key at the end of their stay.
Have a Backup Plan
Accidents happen. Make sure you have a spare key in the event of a lockbox failure or emergency.
Organizing lockbox codes can be tricky, especially if you have multiple properties. Using Hosty Airbnb management software can help you keep all your codes in one place so your guests are never inconvenienced.
You can see Hosty in action with a free for 14-day trial – get started today!
