Key Security

Issuing lockboxes for use in selling Fredericksburg Texas real estate should be a no-brainer for our local Board of Realtors.  The fact that local agents aren’t calling for this important change is distressing (to say the least) and, frankly, is increasing risking for the sellers they represent. Let me explain.

The current system employed by agents has each office keeping multiple keys (usually labeled with the sellers name and address) in a (lightly-secured, if secured at all) file or keybox in their offices.  When a showing is scheduled, the showing agent stops by and picks up a key and the agents name and date of showing is noted.  It is not at all unusual for keys to be left for agents in designated places outside of offices (unsecured) for weekend or after-hours showings.  Keys are always checked out to appraiser, inspectors, contractors, etc.

After the showing, agents are to return the keys where they are duly logged back in.  It is not unusual for keys to be returned late (i.e. after two or three days of riding around in an agent/appraiser/inspectors car) and/or left in “after-hours” (unsecured) locations.

This is the reality of how we currently do things.  I’m sure I’ll upset more than a few people by revealing this common practice but the good news is “there is a better way”.  Surely, readers of this blog can assess the mind-boggling liability this system can create.

Now picture a system that electronically tracks and records anyone accessing a key, when they used it, how long they used it for, if they replaced it and has penalties in place for anyone abusing/misusing the system.  The only argument left for no using this system might the rouge agents trying to show a listing (occupied) without an appointment.  That is also handled by tracking these fools who show up “unannounced” and fining them accordingly.

Someone please show me the downside….