Offer guests an autonomous arrival?

In recent years a great debate has arisen in the vacation rental sector. The rapid advance of technology affects practically all sectors, in this case, the tourism sector. More and more tourist accommodations are offering their guests a key safe, a smart lock or simply a keypad. All these tools allow the guest to arrive autonomously, being able to access the accommodation at any time from the time of Check-In. And this is when this great debate arises.

Should we offer guests an autonomous arrival?

In our opinion, there is nothing wrong at all. So why doesn't Ole Solutions advise owners to use this guest entry system? There are several reasons why our team has not implemented this innovative technology to date. Firstly, our experience tells us that, in general, guests prefer to be greeted at the property. A personal greeting always adds a personal touch to the Check-In, as well as allowing us to get to know the tenant a little better. In today's ever-changing world of faceless interaction, automation and artificial intelligence, we could say that we are old school for the 21st century. 

From the experience of the Ole Solutions team, having also worked with smart lock apartments, we have to recognize that the system can be beneficial. That is, as long as the host or manager has provided the guest with the exact information they need to find the property and enter it without any hindrance.

Main advantages of installing a safe-lock

To discuss the advancement in practical security technology and whether you should install a safe-lock on your property, you should first investigate the advantages and disadvantages of implementing this system. Does it save money? Is it more efficient? Is it a good system for a tourist accommodation? Your property manager will not have to meet with guests, so they can arrive at any time. As long as they have the code and the property is clean and ready for their arrival. This is a great advantage for the guest, allowing them great flexibility in terms of arrival time.

In addition, high-security keypad smart locks are affordable. The system can be easily installed on your property's door or front door so that tenants can easily find it. Plus, you can choose from a variety of styles, finishes, textures or colors. Check prices here.

But what happens when a problem arises?

The main problem regarding the smart lock system arises when guests have problems to open the lock. It should be remembered that most of these systems work through Wifi signals, Bluetooth, voice assistants or biometric devices, which can cause failures to our smart lock system. Another big problem regarding safe deposit boxes is that they are heavily exposed to vandalism and unwanted attempts to guess the code and enter the property. 

Also, elderly tenants, in particular, may not feel comfortable using a keyed deadbolt lock. It should be remembered that not all guests are tech-savvy. But for the Ole Solutions team, the main disadvantage comes at check-out time. As a general rule, most guests do not cause damage to the property. But what if guests do cause major damage? If neither the owner nor the property manager checks the condition of the accommodation at check-out, the guest has everything to gain.

Property Management Services for tourist accommodations

In conclusion and speaking from a property manager's point of view, smart locks could save us a lot of time at Check-In, especially when guests do not arrive at the property at the agreed time. In the short term, they could probably save guests money. But what happens when something goes wrong? The property manager needs to be there. A midnight call is an additional cost to the customer and unwanted work for us. 

That's why the Ole Solutions team still prefers to follow the traditional system. That is, getting to know our guests, explaining how the devices work, addressing any issues and even recommending the best restaurants, stores and local entertainment in the area. Guests want experiences. No one chooses a property first, it's the location of the property. And that's the main reason why we are so passionate about providing our guests with the best possible experience at our vacation rental properties.

If you are interested in consulting our property management services for tourist accommodations, do not hesitate to contact the Marketing & Sales department of Ole Solutions.