Contending With Old Lockboxes, Unlabeled Keys, and Security Systems
It’s just good, common sense, but you’d be surprised how many listing agents (representing Sellers) violate the following “Do’s” and “Don’ts” for making their clients’ homes easy to access.
“Do”: use a new(er), easy-to-open lockbox that’s in good repair, and — if not on the front door — easy to find.
“Do“: if there are multiple keys, clearly label each one. The ones at left are labelled “main door,” “unit,” and “garage” (they’re for a condo).
“Don’t“: leave an alarm on prior to showings, and expect Buyers’ agents to disarm it once they’re in the house (and re-arm it afterwards). Instead, homeowners should leave the alarm off during the day.
If that’s too risky (because of the home’s contents), valuables should be removed beforehand.
Which is actually a good idea regardless of whether the “For Sale” home has a security alarm.
See also, “Showing Instructions: the Good, the Bad, and the (Very) Ugly“; “Where Does the Realtor Lockbox Go?”; “Lockbox Combo’s“; “Clever Lockbox Codes, Cont.”; and “Lazy Lockbox Codes.”
