MHMLS would like to get the opinion of our membership on lock boxes. A few years ago we investigated the option of utilizing electronic boxes. After careful consideration and membership opinion the consensus was not to migrate to them. The cost associated with them and the user maintenance was found unappealing. We maintained the use of the key boxes whereby the boxes are purchased by the broker and agent for about $30 each. The lock box key is given to any MHMLS member at no cost except for a $100 deposit which is returned when the member surrenders the key in compliance with the MHMLS rules governing such.
We believe due to economic conditions and the cost that electronic lock boxes are still not seen favorable by the membership. It is evident many brokers and agents are using combination boxes more frequently. With that said MHMLS is considering eliminating supporting a key lock box system. Please comment in the comment section of this blog whether or not you are for or against this consideration. Please indicate your agent ID within the comment for validation.
We are soliciting your position as to ensure our thinking to eliminating a key lock box system is correct. This will NOT occur if the majority is not in favor. Please take the time to comment and/or make suggestion regarding key boxes to give us direction in how we may better serve your needs.
Thank You - Sandy
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I am in favor of electronic lock boxes.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I use mostly combination boxes. Occasionally, I'll use a keybox. I see no need to use electronic boxes when our system works just fine.
ReplyDeleteOne advantage that I see to the keybox is that with the recent string of attempts made to gain access to listings by people posing as agents, they offer more security against unwanted access. If someone posing as an agent schedules an appointment, and there is a keybox, they won't have access without the MLS issued key.
I'm in favor of keeping the keyboxes
5663
I do not own any key lock boxes, nor do I support them. To use a Key lock box is to limit showings only to MHMLS members and since a large portion of our sales comes from Non-Members of MHMLS and since most listings are listed in other MLS's since we still do not have a regional MLS it is necessary to use a generic lock box that can be used by any licensed agent in NY.
ReplyDeleteSandy, I'm all for electronic lock boxes but understand if now is not the right time. As for key boxes, I don't use them so I would be fine eliminating them. I would rather see that money to go updating our MLS program. Curt Darragh 5325
ReplyDeleteI only use combo boxes. Eliminating the key would be fine for me.
ReplyDeleteAgent ID 3117
I am a member of the Westchester MLS as well. We use the electronic Sentri lock boxes and the vast majority of the brokers hate them. Besides more fees, you have to update your card all the time. On more then one occasion I have been out with customers and was unable to get the LB open because the battery died or the LB malfunctioned. SAY NO!!! - agent ID 1443
ReplyDeletePlease, no electronic boxes! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI've used the electrnic bx over in ghvmls..don't like them.. i like the key box best...Debbie 6645
ReplyDeleteHi Sandy,
ReplyDeleteBecause I am a member of more than one MLS I do not use key boxes. I would be in favor of eliminating them. I think security issues occur with either type of lockbox ie; agents share keys with non menmbers and unlicensed assistants are given a combo by the licensed agent. Thank you, Agent ID 3226
I occasionally have to use a combo box to accommodate out of town Realtors but the key system is fine, it works well. Besides, it may be a hardship for a majority of agents. They would now be required to purchase all new boxes, this may not be a good time to do that!!
ReplyDeleteIf it ain't broke don't fix it!
AGENT ID 3047
I think we should eliminate the key lockbox because it just easier for access with a combination lockbox for all agents.
ReplyDelete3899
I use combo lock boxes exclusively to allow for access to all agents in the area, not just MHMLS members. It's my opinion that we can get rid of the key boxes. I am not in favor of the electronic boxes either.
ReplyDeleteAgent 3385
Electronic boxes are too expensive. I'm in favor of eliminating key boxes and going only to combo boxes.
ReplyDeleteAgent ID 1190.
I'm a member of 5 MLS's and the ones who've implemented E-KeyBoxes have all been disatisfactory and a huge waste of money.
ReplyDeletePlease wait until a better mouse trap comes out that actually works. In the meantime, focus your energies on updating the antiquated platform of the MidHudson MLS.
p.s. Any agent using a keybox is doing their seller a serious disservice!
When things go electronic, it's asking for malfunctions and more headaches.. But then again I'm one that still uses key boxes and just now getting ready to implement combo boxes. I say give agents a bit of time of still using the key boxes and possibly set a date that they will no longer be offered. This way those who still use them can stock up on combos. Personally I do see key boxes as better security but unfortunately they are becoming obsolete and some agents even get irritated if you say ' keybox' and they have no key. -Jill Doppel, ID #4716
ReplyDeleteI am happy with the present system...key or combo - not interested in going electronic.
ReplyDelete3346
Also, I agree with agent 3047 above. It may be a hardship on many agents. -4716
ReplyDeleteUlster uses electronic boxes and I hate them. The card needs to be updated all the time,if you forget you can't get in. If an agent doesn't have an electronic key and wants to show a listing, they need to reach the LA and ask for a day code. Usually that is not an easy task.
ReplyDeleteCombos work great for agents of all MLS to show a listing. Keys are limited to those who have them.
Both key and combo are fine.
ReplyDelete6636
I agree with many of the prior posts. Key lock boxes offer a bit more security than combos. Most I have spoken to find electronic boxes burdensome and sometimes do not work so well. When using them, we stay with the combo version. I do think that listing agents should make a better effort to SHOW their listings. Are we not retained to SELL properties?
ReplyDeleteCombo locks are best. No worries that somebody somewhere has lost their key and therefore all MLS key box homes are now vulnerable. The concept of electronic boxes sounds good, but if batteries die the concept is better than the reality. One vote for combinations, and against keys. Thanks.
ReplyDelete1431
Combination lockbox is the way to go. The key is OK but electronic is a pain in the neck.
ReplyDeleteAs long as its not the electronic box I'm ok with key or combo. 6135.
ReplyDeleteI am all about technology and innovation, but I agree with most of the comments above and have to say that I think the system is OK as it is currently, no need for change in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteI am a member of Westchester Putnam MLS as well as Mid Hudson MLS and absolutely despise the electronic boxes. The trouble & cost far out way the benifits! Don't try to fix a system that is not broke! The key lock boxes are just fine. Personaly I would hope that Mid Hudson MLS would decide to keep our costs of doing business in check. Most of us don't want nor need at this time the additional fees. Agent Id: 5016
ReplyDeleteI have electronic key as mandated by other MLS in area. Very expensive, not worth the cost. Key lockbox offers more security to homeowner than combo, but of course combo easier for showings to non-members
ReplyDeleteNo e-box/e-key
5607
I prefer combo. I rarely use the key anymore & would love to have my money back. Do not want electronic, yet.
ReplyDeleteMaybe if they devise a better system and a more affordable one it might be beneficial in Dutchess but for now, its not efficient enough.
Marie
3678
Eliminate key boxes, don't start e-keys, they're expensive. Good quality combo works just fine.
ReplyDeleteI am very happy to have a combo or a keybox. The keybox does offer more security. The i-boxes are expensive, confining(can't open before 9AM or after about 7, unless agent resets in the computer)I've arrived for a water reading several times at 8AM & not been able to get in. 4557 Kathy Dawson
ReplyDeleteWe only use combos so that all agents from all MLS's can gain access. I would guess that it will not be long before some tech firm comes out with a cellphone based system. Leave it as it is untill something better is available.
ReplyDeleteNo e-box with cards!
6898
Let's upgrade to the combination boxes (either push button or the spin dials) Key boxes are antiquated, thus limiting the listings from being shown by outside area Brokers.
ReplyDeleteThe Sentrilock system in my opinion is a money making device that has not always dependable. All we did in the other MLS's is make someone very wealthy while comprimising our sellers showings with unreliability.
NO Electronic box and NO KEY box.
We have been transitioning from combo to using more lockboxes. Anybody can call up and pose as an agent and get a combo. At least with the keybox, they must have the mls key to get in. Out of area brokers can be met at the site for access. After reading the comments, we don't want to use electronic boxes either. We like the lockboxes.
ReplyDelete1414
I am opposed to combo boxes for security reasons. Far too many agencies will give out a combination to anyone calling on the phone and claiming to be an agent. I do not feel like I would be adequately protecting my clients (or myself) if I were forced to use a combo box. As an agent, I would never share my key with anyone, but even if there are agents who do so at least they know the person they are giving it to, which is safer than giving a combo to an unknown voice on the phone.
ReplyDeleteI love the push button combos the best, very easy to use. Some of the dial ones get rusted and stuck. I belong to WPMLS and have used the Sentri card with no incident. You can get emailed when it's about to expire and if you are just starting out, you can buy a mobile card reader for your blackberry. But the combo allows access to all agents and then we won't hear the sorry stories about about why they don't have a sentricard or key while we are cursing them out under our breath as this is the cost of doing business and if we have one, they should too!
ReplyDeleteThe combo box is easy to use for everyone. Every try to use an ebox and need a 1 day code and the code doesnt work. They are not reliable and costly.
ReplyDeleteI am not sure if I am just being nostalgic about the key boxes but I always found them to be efficient. But as usual I am of two minds I would like to expose my listings to the widest audience possible. In these dire economic times we need every appointment possible. I use combos exclusively. I am not in favor of electronic boxes at all and hope that we do not wind up going down that path.
ReplyDeleteI might be just a tad nostalgic for the key box but I never use them and only use combos. In these dire economic times I would never limit, in any way showings and combo boxes give the widest access. But please no electronic boxes they seem to have failed miserably. I really liked the concept but the reality did not hold up
ReplyDeleteMost of the boxes out there today are combo boxes. I prefer it!
ReplyDeleteHopefully, agents will choose to buy the easier ones to open-like the push buttons.
Those dials remind me of my school lockers! Go Right to 'S'; Then go Left to 'C" Pass ZZ and then...ooops... I went too far... got to start over again! Ughk!
The Combo box is more friendly to the needs of the client, agent, and whomever else is granted permission. I do not even use a key to get in my house, car, or office... they are all combos!
Christine Jones
Key and Combo are working fine.
ReplyDelete3258
It was Mid-Hudson that first reported about the secret web site in which YOUR combs, yeah, the ones you don't reset but are supposed to, are posted.
ReplyDeleteIt was with horror as I listed to an agent that had wrongfully written down the combo to a box and called me for clarification, repeat the combo to the buyer to try. Yes, he had indeed told the buyer what the combo was. (It was reset within the hour)
The KEY box is and has been corrupt for some time. One key lost or copied and the entire system is destroyed. And that key can easily be copied by any professional locksmith.
There is only one secure way to grant a buyers agent access to your listing and that is by YOU letting them in. Second to that, only the electronic key box, which is widely used with great success across the country, can provide our clients with real security.
The e-key, card or cell phone (depending on the system) must be updated in order to work. The lock box records the day and time and more importantly, who entered the listing. In some cases this is done immediately and others its daily.
Now I am a relatively small brokerage with not nearly as many listings as the big guys, yet I personally know agents, once I have given them the combo to occupied listing, have indeed returned without an appointment and let themselves in. If this has happened to my listings, it IS happening to yours.
Now we list and sell homes in over 6 different MLS areas. One does not use any lock box, four use electronic lock boxes and we are discussing the fifth here. Are we missing something that the others figured out?
If you honestly think that protecting the most valuable possession your client owns is only with $30 then stay with the Combo boxes. If you think its worth more, as I do, then you should seriously consider implementing better safety measures and examining Electronic Lock Boxes again.
These boxes work great, but as with anything, there is a learning curve...1) slide card into slot. 2) enter your code. 3) retrieve key. Or for system #2 1) Place e-key by box. 2) push button, 3) enter your code 4) retrieve key. Yep, it is difficult!
As far as it being expensive...Only if you are not selling homes.
Combo is the best. I have Sentrilock, Combo, CT's Electronic, MH Key...enough! I rarely use or encounter anything other than the combo box and when I do, it's irritating.
ReplyDeleteMLS ID 6230
Would prefer the combo box over the key box and definately no electronic boxes! Thank you for seeking the memberships opinion!-6427
ReplyDeletecombo or key- no electronic boxes.
ReplyDelete6896
I am against electronic lockboxes, since many brokers will not have them. I prefer the key box, because I feel it is more secure. An agent can give the combo to his customer to re-enter the house. Only an agent has a key and should not lend it. If a Westchester agent wants to show my listing, I will temporarily place a combo box on the house
ReplyDeleteI don't like the key box or the elec. box. I think the combo is fine.
ReplyDeleteI am in favor of electronic lock boxes.
ReplyDeleteI am not happy with the electronic lock boxes. The failure rate is high, giving both an electronic and mechanical component that can malfunction at the box and a computer componenet at the card reader that can crash. The daily or weekly card update at a computer with a card reader is cumbersome and adds just another annoyance in today's hectic schedules. The convenience of giving a locked-out owner or and emergency service contractor access to a property is removed. (think vacant REO and short sale listings in the winter) With today's trend of expanding market territories, brokers that do not have the card are excluded from showing those listings. The benefit of getting the showing history from the lock box web site is redundant to the systems already in place at the time of showing set up. I don't think I even have to mention the cost factor given current economic conditions.
ReplyDelete****The single most beneficial tool I've seen in the last 3 years has been the use of the 'Centralized Showing Service' for the scheduling of broker showings. Many MLS systems across the country have integrated their entire network of brokers into this system. It eliminates the need for up-time agents or paid staff to schedule appointments. They are very professional and have a low 'mess up' rate. The cost is cheap per listing. The ability to get showing reports is excellent. The emails to owners and listing agents confirming the appointments are great. The ability to quickly communicate with all past showing agents (price reductions, multiple bid situations...)is very easy. The hours of operation is expanded from 8AM to 8PM. You can literally set up your appointments for the entire day by hitting your speed dial once from your cell phone on your way to get your morning coffee. I would rather see an effort put in that direction. Jim Bergstraser jimb@remax.net
Stick with the key boxes for the folks who like them. I use all combo boxes. Please don't switch to the electronic boxes, having shown homes in ulster and had nothing but trouble with the electronic boxes I would never use them.
ReplyDeleteI have used keys, combos, and electronic "card" boxes. Combos (individual number of letter dials are my favorite vs. 'twisties') are my preverence in this multi-MLS area. Several times I have been out with clients and found that the 2-week update expired the night before.
ReplyDeleteI use only combo boxes for all the reasons that have been stated very well. No electronic boxes, please. It is always painful to show properties in Orange County when I need to additionally schedule a LA along with my buyer and myself.
ReplyDeleteJim Whitlock - 1290
I use only combo boxes for all the reasons so comprehensively covered already. No electronic boxes, please. It is very painful to show properties in GHVMLS when there is an e-box because in addition to synching schedules between my client and myself, I need to also have the LA available. As far as security around giving out combos, there are many ways to secure that, but as with everything procedures must be diligently followed.
ReplyDelete<>< Jim Whitlock - ID 1290
WPMLS has electronic lockboxes and we are forced to pay extra fees in order to access homes that use these boxes. The cost is astronomical and the vast majority of us refuse to use them. Our broker purchased dozens of these boxes at first inception, they remain in the box they came in...a total waste!
ReplyDeleteAs for key boxes, not all of us can afford to belong to both MLS systems, so it's an obstacle for us to access those as well.
I rarely use key boxes having invested in a good number of combo boxes. Combo boxes make it easier to track showings, especially in vacant properties as the showing agent has to call to get the combo. I have found that my clients appreciate the fact that any agent with a key cannot just show up without an appt to show the home. I have used the electronic boxes in Ulster and they are very cumbersome to use. I would hate to use them in Dutchess County. Combo boxes work best for everyone, and any out of area agent can get access to show our properties.
ReplyDeleteNo electronic boxes. I hate using them in Putnam and Westchester. Combos are the most convenient. If all offices are diligent about verifying an agent id, or asking outside agents to fax over a copy of their license prior to handing out the combo, we should be fine. It would also be wise if agents stop writing the combo on the listing sheets. I have found listing sheets with combos left behind me at properties I've shown recently. If anyone gets hold of a listing sheet with a combo code on it (i.e. recycling bins), we will have a big problem. Use paper shredders or put that combo on a sticky note so you can throw it away at the end of the tour.
ReplyDelete-Tammy Benkwitt
No to electronic boxes. We use combo boxes and the key box when we run out of combo boxes. As a member of Ulster and Orange I agree that they are a hastle to constantly keep them updated. And then there is the cost factor. Have you noticed that they keep getting more expensive.
ReplyDeleteVinny Lorio
I think combo boxes are the way to go. Hate electronic boxes. Key lock boxes are not the way to go anymore because of the amount of agents from other MLS's showing properties in Dutchess.
ReplyDeleteI'm not in favor of an electronic box. Combos and keyboxes work just fine. I had one for 7 years as a member of GHVMLS and was far from thrilled with it as it needed to be updated daily. If I had to choose 1 I would say combos work the best.
ReplyDeleteI am in favor of keeping our current key boxes. The electronic ones that I have use are difficult at times. It would be great if the price of the key box was less. This would promote more usage. Maybe a bulk order. 6904
ReplyDeleteI use a combination of key boxes and combo boxes.....both are just fine with me....not in favor of electronic lock boxes at this point...Doug...MLS ID 1202
ReplyDeleteNo in favor of the electronic lock box. Used to use them in Putnam and was very costly. Combo or key is fine by me. Barbara 5742
ReplyDeleteI'm not at all in favor of an electronic box for multiple reasons. Being a member of many different MLS systems, I can tell you that the combo box works just fine and is universal to other agents coming from different areas. I personally do not use a key box and would be fine with it's elimination.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the majority of the contributors. I personally use the combo boxes but I have no problem with the key boxes. I am against the electronic boxes. I was showing some homes up near Albany a couple of weeks ago and it was a pain in the neck to make appointments with the electronic boxes.
ReplyDeleteRudy 4191
No to Sentri lock - just costs agents money and if an out of area agent wants to show your listing, then time consuming getting them a one day code - time consuming for them and for you! If the system goes down (and it does) then no access. I have nothing against the key lock box.
ReplyDeleteNo key AND no electronic works best for me.Number pushbutton or dial work well.
ReplyDeleteIt seems that electronic boxes aren't very popular. This is not the time to add more expenses to agents and companys. Combo's seem the way to go.
ReplyDeleteThe only generic lockbox is a combo box. By using them we would encourage any agent with a customer to sell our listing for the client. Create a program to convert all of the existing key boxes to combo boxes at a reasonable cost. Sounds simple to me.
ReplyDeletePenny Fontaine 6563
ReplyDeleteI am happy with the key box, have no problems whatsoever. Combo are OK No Electronic boxes
I recently started using an electronic lock box for the GHVMLS and I have to say the price is way too much especially for a new agent. The combo box works well for me. I say get rid of the key box and electronic boxes. Offices should be more careful when giving out the combos and only to those who can answer the appropriate questions.
ReplyDeleteHi Sandy,
ReplyDeleteI am a member of Ulster as well as Dutchess and I find the e-boxes to be very difficult. It is true that the battery dies and I have had agents enter houses without appointment. I use only my personal lock boxes now. It is nice to be able to see who enters which home at what time when the e-box is used. Perhaps we could come up with some type of system that would allow us to log in and see who showed what when. Just a thought. Thank you for your efforts.
Hi Sandy:
ReplyDeleteBeing a member of 4 mls' i prefer the combo boxes... Not the letter combos though - when the agent who previously showed the house doesn't turn the knob it doesn't lock and i have been to many houses over the years with letter combos and i just pull it open. It never was locked. I use the Push Button combos that i purchased myself and they work beautifully. No way for an error. AND the agent has to call for the combo - plus it can be changed whenever necessary.
Agent ID 3130
I prefer key boxes for security reasons. I am not in favqr of electronic combo boxes.
ReplyDeleteKey boxes are the easiest and secure - so only MHMLS members can access house
ReplyDelete5333
I think key boxes are the worst. Combo boxes are the easiest. I've been a Realtor for close to 20 years and do not own a key box, only a key. Electronic boxes do offer a higher level of security. What most agents don't realize is the box can be programmed so you don't need a card so show a listing. It can work just like a combo box. They are bulky however. There is no way to access a house with a key box if you don't have a key. I think the standard combo box is far and away the most popular with agents and the easiest to use. I'm also a member of WPMLS and CTMLS. CT has the worst electronic boxes where you have a key pad you have to updated daily and you can't fit it in your wallet like a card.
ReplyDeleteDon 3895
I think combo boxes are the way to go - key boxes and electronic boxes both are problematic
ReplyDelete