Accessibility and convenience are key elements of enabling your short-term rental guests to have a seamless, enjoyable stay. In the pursuit of guest convenience, many short-term rental hosts outfit their properties with smart locks to allow for automated self-check-in, eliminating the hassle of coordinating times to meet up to gain access and the stress of lost keys.
Check out the seven reasons to choose a short-term rental smart lock below, courtesy of Minoan brand partner and premier smart lock provider, Level Home.
1. Enhance Curb Appeal for More Bookings
Smart locks contribute to curb appeal by offering sleek, modern designs that eliminate the need for visible keyholes, resulting in a cleaner and more contemporary look for your front door. With their minimalist appearance and keyless entry systems, smart locks can seamlessly integrate into the overall aesthetic of your home's exterior, enhancing its visual appeal and leaving a positive impression on short-term rental guests.
Level locks are beautifully crafted with timeless designs that match any exterior style, including matching OMNIA door levers for a cohesive hardware finish. And, if you prefer a more classic look, simply update your current deadbolt to a smart deadbolt and retain the physical keys, especially if you prefer to keep your smart lock discreet and accessible only at guest arrival.
2. Keep a Backup Option
Keyless entry provides convenience and flexibility, allowing users to lock or unlock doors without traditional keys, but sometimes hosts prefer an “in case of emergency” manual method of entry. A keyless entry feature on a lock that can still use traditional keys offers a built-in backup feature that enables manual operation like a traditional deadbolt in case of technical issues, reducing the potential cost and inconvenience of locksmith services or troubleshooting during check-in time.
With Level locks, you have the option of providing guests keyless entry by locking or unlocking with a phone, smartwatch, keycards, keyfobs, and keypads – no traditional key required. However, unlike some other smart locks, Level locks still work with a traditional key – so if it encounters an issue, you can still operate the lock manually like a traditional deadbolt. A built-in backup feature for operating your lock reduces the potential cost of calling out a locksmith or the time you may spend troubleshooting.
3. Minimize Installation Time
Smart locks that offer compatibility with existing door hardware are easy to install. Typically requiring only basic tools like a screwdriver and wireless connectivity eliminates the need for complex wiring. Some models offer app-based setup processes that guide users through installation with interactive features.
Level locks are fairly straightforward to install and, most of the time, require only a screwdriver to get the job done.
4. Monitor Access at the Click of a Button
Smart locks also enable short-term vacation rental hosts to monitor access to their properties efficiently and securely. Through the accompanying mobile apps or online platforms, hosts can remotely manage and track access, which is particularly valuable for managing multiple properties or remotely located rentals, as hosts can grant temporary access codes or digital keys to guests, cleaners, or maintenance personnel, ensuring seamless check-ins and check-outs while maintaining security protocols. Additionally, hosts can receive real-time notifications of any unauthorized access attempts, allowing for immediate action to address any security concerns and safeguard the property and guests' well-being.
With a Level lock, you can control the access permissions you grant your renter. You can send them Shared Access through the app while they’re renting and then revoke that access when their stay is over. You can also see the activity history of the lock if you have a Level Connect or direct bluetooth connection. And, you’ll never have to worry about changing your keys when a new guest arrives – the ultimate peace of mind for hosts.
5. Allow Guests to Choose Their Preference
Not all guests may have smartphones or may encounter issues with their devices, making keypad entry a reliable alternative. Keypad entry allows for easy management of access codes, which can be assigned to guests, cleaners, or maintenance personnel without the need for smartphone apps or internet access. This is particularly useful in scenarios where guests may have limited connectivity or prefer not to rely solely on their mobile devices for access, and can serve as a backup method in case of technical issues with mobile entry or for guests who prefer a more traditional means of access.
With the Level Keypad accessory you can open your lock with a code, phone free. Unlike other smart locks on the market, the keypad is not attached to the lock itself so your front door doesn’t have to advertise your smart lock – you can put your keypad on a porch banister and hide it from plain view. The Level Keypad allows you to create names for unique codes, allowing you to easily identify which code is actively being used by your guests.
Additionally, for those who like a physical object but would rather not bother with a traditional key, phone or keypad, some Level locks come with keycards or fobs. These can also provide an easy means of controlling and sharing access to your lock. Just like guest access, key cards/fobs can be granted or revoked via the app. If someone loses their card/fob, you can immediately remove its permissions via the app to secure your home.
6. Unlock Remotely for Easy Access
With remote access, hosts can lock or unlock the rental property's door from anywhere using their smartphone or computer, regardless of their physical proximity to the property. This feature proves invaluable for managing unexpected situations such as last-minute bookings, early check-ins, or late arrivals, allowing hosts to provide seamless access to guests without being physically present. Additionally, remote lock and unlock capabilities enhance security by enabling hosts to promptly respond to any security concerns or unauthorized access attempts, minimizing the risk of property damage or theft.
With a Level lock, you can grant renters access from anywhere through the Level App, eliminating the hassle of key drop-offs. There is no need to come up with a meeting time, or deal with inconvenient delays. Instead, you can allow access to your lock by adding them as guests. You can specify duration, and if you have more than one lock associated with that location, you can control which lock you want to grant access.
7. Auto-Lock Automatically for Better Security
With auto-lock, the door automatically locks after a specified period of time, typically once the door is closed, eliminating the need for guests to remember to manually lock the door behind them. This minimizes the risk of human error and ensures that the property remains secure between guest stays. Auto-lock also helps streamline the turnover process by ensuring that the property is securely locked after each guest departure, reducing the risk of unauthorized access during cleaning or maintenance tasks.
Depending on how you use Airbnb and/or VRBO — whether as your main source of income or just to make something extra — there is a smart lock solution that suits you. With a smart lock like Level locks on your rental property, you’ll gain control, convenience, and safety.
