Self-Serve showings afford prospective tenants a safe, secure means of viewing homes without the presence of a real estate agent. In most cases, homes are available for showings within 10 minutes of a completed registration and showing request.
How Does It Work?
Several companies exist which provide users electronic digital lock boxes. These lock boxes are remotely connected via software programs.
Lock boxes are equipped with 1-time use codes provided to registered users.
Prospective tenants and vendors may register via the secure app or website. Some companies require registrants to scan a driver’s license, credit card and sometimes both into their system as a means of fraud protection.
Each registrant’s identity is attached to his or her personal cell phone number. Upon approval, registrants are issued a one-time use code via text message which grants entry into the desired home. This code expires after a set period of time and cannot be reused upon expiration.
Why Does It Work?
The traditional method of home showings has become rather archaic due to the need for tenants to view homes more expediently than ever before. Prospective tenants utilize technology such as cell phones and laptops to perform home searches and expect to view properties immediately.
The concept of awaiting a return call from a realtor does not appeal to most clientele who prefer to view information online.
Prospects find it more helpful to view properties on their own time, at their own speed.
Self-serve showing systems allow for showings seven days a week, on holidays and any other time a property management company chooses.
Pros and Cons:
Pro: Immediate showing ability, no need to wait for an agent, 7 days a week availability.
Pro: More efficient for a property manager.
Pro: Reduce vacancy times due to faster leasing of homes.
Pro: Instant gratification for a prospect who is excited about a home.
Pro: IPS reduces owner leasing fees when self-service showings are used to view.
Con: Can only be used on vacant properties.
Con: Not all prospects utilize apps and smartphones.
Con: They are not 100% foolproof and glitches in software can occur.
Con: Concern of theft.
IPS' Experience with Self-Serve Showings:
IPS began experimenting with self-serve showings early on in order to best learn the system.
Since 2013, IPS properties have experienced reduced vacancy by 8-13 days.
During that time, nothing was ever damaged or stolen.
IPS has ALWAYS made this an OPTIONAL service to Owners.
IPS will replace up to $1,500 in appliances in the event of theft or damage due to registrant abuse of the self-serve lock box system.
Innovative Property Solutions
8833 Perimeter Park Blvd Suite 301, Jacksonville, FL 32216
