Why, being an Airbnb host, you need to think about a specific door lock
Owning an Airbnb is a great way to make a bit of extra money. It can also be a lot of fun. However, like any business endeavor, it can be very stressful as well. This is especially true if you have more than one Airbnb to your name, though one can be just as tricky to manage as multiple, especially if you just use a standard lock and key to let your guests in. With this system, you need to worry about the keys being lost, stolen, or accidentally taken by your guests when they checkout. Not only that, but you will need to either hide the key on your property or meet the guests there when they arrive to give them the key. This could be a huge inconvenience for you and actually, make it so you have to monitor your properties so closely that you can’t ever relax.
On the other hand, if you get a smart lock, you will make your life a whole lot easier. Since there are no keys to use, you don’t have to be present when your guests check in. You simply need to provide them with the correct code through email or an app, and they can check right in. Plus, if you get a more advanced model, like the Samsung and Yale Aurmur Smart Lock and Checkout Button, you won’t really need to do anything but put your guests on the calendar. The lock will generate and send the code, and let you know when your guests have checked out. These locks, plain and simple, will make your life easier, while also helping to keep your properties even more secure than they are now.
Features to consider while choosing an Airbnb smart lock
As you can imagine, there are plenty of different features that you need to consider when looking for the best smart lock for your Airbnb. In this section, we will go through everything you need to know so you can find the best model for your needs.
Security system
When it comes to selecting a smart lock, the first thing that you will want to consider is the security system that it utilizes. There are three basic options when it comes to finding a security system. These include the following:
- Electronic Keypad – This type of security system is the most rugged of the three. It is highly durable and easy to use. Depending on the type you select, it can be programmed to use several different entrance codes, making this system a great option for anyone that is looking for the best smart lock for Airbnb no app required. Since these don’t use very much battery power, the batteries that run them should last for a long time.
- Touchscreen Keypad – Much like an electronic keypad, touchscreen pads are very easy to use. While they are not quite as durable and will use more battery power than their electronic counterparts, these devices are very streamlined. If you are looking for a modern solution to your keypad search, then something like the Schlage FE695 is a great option.
- App-Controlled – These locks are by far the simplest to install and easiest to maintain. Everything is done through an app on a smartphone, making it very easy to grant access to your guests. Of course, if you have someone staying at your Airbnb that doesn’t have a smartphone, this system might not be a good choice.
Maximum number of access codes it can store
Plain and simple, the more access codes your new smart lock can utilize, the more secure your property is going to be. That way, you can make sure that each of your guests has their own unique code.
Though you certainly want to be able to trust the people that are staying at your property, it is never a bad idea to be extremely careful. The last thing you want to have happen is to have someone gain access to your property without your knowledge or consent.
If you want a ton of code options, then the Yale Security YRL236-CBA-619 (250 codes) or the Samsung and Yale Aurmur Smart Lock and Checkout Button (unlimited codes) are both amazing options. On the other hand, if you only need a handful of codes, or you just want to save a bit of money, the TURBOLOCK UL-99-SS (10 codes) might be a good fit for your needs.
If it should be controlled via a smartphone
There aren’t too many smart locks on the market today that utilize a smartphone app. As we mentioned previously, even in our modern world, there are still some folks that don’t use a smartphone, making this kind of lock harder to use.
On the other hand, the August Smart Lock, 3rd Gen Technology works really well for anyone with a smartphone. All you need to do is have your guests download the app, grant access, and they are all set. With the app-enabled, all they have to do is walk up to the door, and it will open up for them. When they leave, the app automatically locks the door, making it an extremely secure choice.
Warranty
As with any larger purchase, and especially with one that is going to determine how safe and secure your properties are, you want to make sure that you look for a product with a good warranty. That way, if something should go wrong with your new smart lock, you will be covered. It is best to look for a warranty that will replace any faulty equipment so that you can keep your Airbnb as safe as possible.
What’s included in the package
When looking for a new lock for your Airbnb, you want to make sure that it comes with everything that you need to install and use it correctly. The contents of the packaging will also clue you into how the new lock will be installed. Some locks, like the Kwikset 92640-001, will only affect your padlock, making them very easy to install. Others, like the TURBOLOCK UL-99-SS, will completely replace your existing doorknob, making them a bit trickier to install.
Extra features
Since all of these smart locks are powered by batteries, perhaps the most important feature to keep in the back of your mind is some sort of low battery indicator. That way, you will be able to make sure that all of your locks are powered up so that they can be used correctly.
Some locks also come with a backup battery pack that will allow you to provide enough power to open the door if the first set of batteries stop working.
Of course, you could also get a lock that comes with a set of standard keys in case the power goes out, like the HAIFUAN Left Hand Digital Keypad Door Lock. That way, you can always get in, regardless of whether or not the batteries died or your guest forgot their passcode. Another good extra feature to look for is a backlight for the keypad. This extra bit of light will make it a lot easier for your guests to get into their room if they arrive after dark.
