Showings and Lockboxes Guide

One of the most valuable services for sellers is an efficient property access system. The easier it is for buyer’s agents to show your home, the more showings you’ll receive, increasing the likelihood of a quick sale. Most showings come from REALTORS®, but if a buyer contacts you directly without an agent, pay close attention, as you could avoid paying the 2.5-3% buyer’s agent commission, saving thousands.

We strongly recommend using a Realtor Electronic Lockbox ($199 rental fee, $80 refundable deposit upon return in good condition). Contrary to common belief, you don’t need a full-service broker to access this tool. Realmart provides the same professional lockbox for a nominal fee, saving you tens of thousands compared to traditional listing commissions. The ideal showing instruction for buyer’s agents is “Call & Go” (also known as “Courtesy Call”), allowing agents to access your home after a quick notification. Use a combination lockbox only in specific cases, such as heightened security or monitoring needs. When a buyer’s agent shows the home to their clients, allow them to lead the tour, stepping aside or leaving unless asked questions. Avoid overselling, as this can overwhelm buyers.

For the best results, leave your home during REALTOR® showings. Data shows that buyers spend less time in a home when the seller is present, as they may feel uncomfortable or like they’re intruding. Shorter visits reduce the chance of a second showing or an offer. An Electronic Memory Lockbox simplifies this by enabling secure, tracked access for agents without requiring your presence, maximizing buyer comfort and exposure to your property.

Realtor Lockbox (GE Supra iBox)

A Realtor Lockbox, specifically the GE Supra iBox, is a secure device resembling a large lock that attaches to a door handle or doorknob. It contains a compartment that holds a key to access the home. Commonly known as a “Supra” Keybox or Lockbox, it is designed for use by licensed REALTORS® to facilitate secure and tracked property showings.

Benefits of Using a Realtor Lockbox

Using a Realtor Electronic Lockbox is highly recommended for its security, convenience, and ability to maximize showings. Here are the three key reasons to use one:

1. Enhanced Security and Control: Realtor Lockboxes can only be accessed by licensed REALTORS® using a unique electronic key. Each lockbox has a distinct serial number, and every key records access details, including who entered the home and when. This ensures accountability and traceability if any issues arise. Additionally, Electronic Memory Lockboxes are programmed to restrict access outside of 9 AM to 9 PM, adding an extra layer of security.

2. Time Savings: A lockbox eliminates the need for you to be present during showings, freeing up your schedule. Buyer’s agents can access the property after a courtesy call, allowing for seamless showings without coordinating with you directly.

3. Prevents Missed Showings: Without a lockbox, agents must schedule appointments, which can lead to missed opportunities due to phone tag or scheduling conflicts. Even when an appointment is set, agents or buyers may fail to show up, leaving you waiting. Some agents skip homes without lockboxes entirely, reducing your property’s exposure. A lockbox ensures more showings by enabling easy access for qualified agents.

Realtor Electronic Memory Lockboxes are available in all MLS areas except Hudson MLS.

Combination Keybox (special circumstances)

Combo keyboxes present similar challenges to scheduling appointments, as buyer’s agents must contact you directly to obtain the combination, often leading to “phone tag” delays. Additionally, combo keyboxes lack robust access control. Once the combination is shared, it can be passed to others or reused without your knowledge, and you cannot verify if the recipient is a licensed agent.

In areas where eShowings.com is available, combo keyboxes may be more manageable. eShowings.com distributes the combination to agents after they provide a security code, reducing phone tag and recording all showings with agent details for accountability. However, Realtor Electronic Lockboxes (e.g., GE Supra iBox) are strongly recommended over combo keyboxes. Available at a nominal rental fee ($199, with an $80 refundable deposit upon return in good condition), they offer superior security, access tracking, and convenience by allowing licensed REALTORS® to use electronic keys for secure entry. Master Combo keyboxes can be purchased at stores like Home Depot, but they lack the advanced features and reliability of Realtor Lockboxes.