Airbnb smart locks provide Airbnb hosts with a great way to provide keyless entry to their guests. Why is this important? It can save you time, money and it provides your guests with the flexibility to choose their arrival time. In addition, it’s a requirement if you want your listing to be featured in Airbnb’s work collection.
One of the benefits of staying at a hotel is the peace-of-mind knowing there is always someone there to help you, usually 24/7. Even two and three-star hotels have someone at the front desk to aid your arrival, departure and everything in between. So how do you compete with that? What can you do to provide a similar service as an Airbnb host without actually being there?
Access and Lost Keys
One of the most common reasons a guest needs front desk assistance during their stay is for losing their key. By finding a solution to the greatest need, you reduce your guest’s chance of requiring assistance during their stay. It’s a mindful step for an Airbnb host. An easy way to combat this challenge is by making duplicate sets of keys, as in five or six sets. Playing it safe is important.
You’ll need one set for yourself, a set for your guest and a set for your property manager all the time. This covers the basics. You may want to offer your guests several sets (if there are friends this can be convenient). You will want a back up in the event you lose your set, and a back up in the event the guest loses their set(s). Stranger things have happened. It’s better to be over prepared than under prepared. Give one of the back up sets to a neighbor or relative close by. This is a great way to come to your guest’s aid without actually having to come to your guest’s aid. Being ready for anything shows the guest you are a reliable Airbnb host and will translate to a positive experience in the end.
Airbnb Smart Locks Provide Keyless Entry
Another fabulous way to avoid access challenges is by installing a keyless entry system. These can run on both a key and a code system. The code is emailed to the guest, providing them with access to your Airbnb space worry-free. With this system, you can rest easy knowing your guests are void of access issues and in the end, it will save a lot of hassle on those late nights coming in from the bars. You can pick a keyless entry system up at most hardware stores. They are easy to install and easy to change the code as well.
The best Smart Locks for Airbnb hosts
Here are some great keyless entry system options.
RemoteLock 7i by Lockstate
The RemoteLock 7i is the Ferrari of the smart locks. It’s designed for both outdoor and indoor use and comes with smart lock techonology that allows Airbnb hosts to manage multiple locks remotely. Hosts can monitor lock usage, receive email or text alerts when doors are opened and schedule code changes in advance. RemoteLock 7i works with Airbnb Host Assist to generate guest codes automatically.
Special deal: Use coupon code GP25 to get $25 off your purchase (click here to claim discount).
Related Post: RemoteLock Review: Manage Access to Your Property Remotely
Other Smart locks
Lockitron ($179): backordered for 3 months due to production problems. fits on most existing cylindrical residential dead-bolt style locks.
Schlage Connect ($184.99): Z-wave technology connects to your home automation system and lets you lock or unlock your door remotely via the web or smartphone
August Smartlock ($181.99): Control your door with your smartphone and automatically lock your door as you leave and auto-unlocks as you approach.
Conclusion
A smart lock is one of the essential Airbnb tools that most Airbnb hosts should have. There are a lot of smart locks out there for us Airbnb hosts. Which lock is best for you depends on your situation and how much you want to invest. If you have a high-end listing and you’re charging several hundreds of dollars a night, I’d go for one of the more expensive and sophisticated locks.
Being an Airbnb host just keeps getting easier. I love hearing from you! Do you use a smart lock for your Airbnb? Comment below and let me know!