All About Key Lockboxes When Selling Your Home

by Greg Cryns

When we were looking for our home in Paso Robles, California, our real estate agent usually took us to a home when the seller was not present. There are many good reasons why the seller's place is not at home when the house is being shown to a prospective buyer. This is why the real estate industry uses lockboxes. A lockbox is a locked box where the key to the house is stored for easy access by registered real estate salespeople.

Do you have to use a key lockbox? Using the lockbox is optional for the seller but highly recommended for any MLS listing. A home listed in the MLS, regardless of what company has listed it, usually gets more 

showings if a lockbox is available. Agents find that there is less hassle to getting access to a house for a showing when a lockbox is there.

What is the advantage of using a key lockbox? having a key lockbox available, instead of the sellers being president to allow access to the home, the buyer and their agent had a chance to approach and examine the property without feeling rushed. If the seller does not have to be at home, the buyers won't feel like they are inconvenient think the seller. They can discuss the home free lead with their agent without offending the home seller.

Can agents show my home any time they want if I use a key lockbox? No, agents must still schedule a showing of your home, which has to be approved by you. If you want to make the home available without confirmation from you, you can also make those arrangements.

key lockbox manufacturers demsntratre the procedures that real estate agents need to know to use the lockbox, and which have been used for over 30 years. Because these procedures are well known, there are virtually no problems with key lockboxes.

Your home is more likely to sell when you were not present. If the buyer sees you, even if you are on your way out, they have a natural tendency to rush through viewing the home. If at all possible, leave your home during the time of the showing, and head to the mall or out to a park. While you might think this is inconvenient, it makes your home an easier sell, and that should be your number one goal at this point. By using a lockbox, a showing can take place even if you are not available.

Why don't all companies suggest lockboxes for their MLS listings? Some home sellers just don't like the idea of a key lockbox until they understand the facts. Many companies don't take the time to explain how it can reduce showing activity by not having a key lockbox. 

Are key lockboxes secure? Key lockboxes are built as strongly as padlocks, and are very durable. It is probably much more sturdy than your front door or any other door or fixture you might attach it to. 

Is there a reason to use a lockbox after I have sold my home? Yes. Key lockboxes can be used for anyone who wants to provide secure access to their home: people with children, pet sitters, senior citizens, sporting gear storage, and many more:

* Bikes, Motorcycles and Equipment
* Vacation Properties & Home or Apartment Rentals
* On or Off-Site Real Estate & Property Management
* Construction Sites & Vehicles
* Contractors & Subcontractors
* Children Need Access After School: A way children won't lose the key.
* Easy Access for Family and Friends: Give them a way to check on pets, water plants, or keep an eye on our house, etc.
* Cleaning and Maintenance People: You can easily change the lockbox combination.
* Emergency Access for Elderly Residents: Even people with poor vision can use this key lockbox.
* Runners, Joggers & Other Outdoor Sports: Avoid the need to carry your keys with you.
* Sporting Equipment, Recreational Vehicles, & Boats: You don't have to remember to bring your keys any more.

Greg Cryns is the owner of Flat Fee Real Estate Guide - http://www.flatfeerealestateguide.com