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With self-showing technology, a mobile app provides keyless entry into a rental property, or access to a smart lockbox with the key inside. While self-showings seem convenient (which they can be), there are some potential drawbacks to consider when deciding if self-showings are right for your business.
It is not always secure
When prospects let themselves into a property, they’re unattended, which means you don't know who is visiting your home and what they may do while there. Even simple things like tracking mud into the unit or failing to flush the toilet after use are not uncommon.
In addition, self-showing scams are becoming more prevalent. Scammers will “lease” properties that aren’t theirs by duplicating keys and listings and performing their own tours. Then the scammers collect tenants’ security deposits and sensitive information, and in some cases, even let them move in!
It can’t be used for tenant-occupied properties
One of the best ways to reduce vacant days is to show properties before they’re available. You absolutely cannot use self-showings for a property that is currently under lease. In addition, lots of HOAs and condominiums do not allow self-showings.
It is not as personal
Prospects can’t get all of their questions answered from a friendly professional who is there to help. They can’t ask anything about the features of the property or the neighborhood.
It can be cumbersome for prospects
The hurdles of self-showing turns away some of the best prospective renters, who don’t want to have to go through the process required by self-showing technology. This process includes uploading a government-issued ID and using a smartphone camera for a facial recognition scan.
It can leave a bad first impression
This presents your property management business as hands-off. Your prospects may wish to be secure that you will have a person to person relationship with them with any future needs as a resident in your property.
It typically doesn’t provide reliable feedback for owners or property managers
Unless a person has spent time with these prospects you are going to get very little actionable information related to price, cleanliness, quality, etc.
So what should you look for when seeking help with self-showings?
- Safe, secure, and reliable self-showing software
- Professional and personal customer service for when prospects are self-touring
- A solution that is flexible with limited commitments
- Easy scheduling that maximizes availability
- And most important, feedback from the prospect
