Consider Automation for Convenience and Security
While smart locks, doorbell cameras, smart thermostats and fire alarms may add initial cost, they can pay off in security and convenience.
There are several different options for dealing with keys. Some people choose to hand off a physical key in person. Greeting their guests and making personal contact can start your customer experience out on a great foot, as long as the meet up goes smoothly. This is great if you have the time and energy, but obvious downsides include the demands on your personal resources and the likelihood of lost or misplaced keys. A lockbox with a numerical code avoids having to be on site to great guests and having to provide numerous sets of keys for different guests heading out for different destinations. However, there is some risk in having keys lost or duplicated.
But with a simple upgrade to a smart lock, you can change the access code between guests and provide cleaners and other vendors with their own codes, all of which can be done remotely. Because everyone entering has a unique access code, it is possible to monitor who entered the unit when. Additionally, you can lock the door remotely, if you find that someone has left a door unlocked. If you’re an Alexa user you can even get a lock that connects.
Smoke Detectors
Smart smoke detectors and air monitors connect through your smartphone, over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and provide updates regarding air quality and smoke detection. Some allow you to remotely disable the devices, and, in some cases, even allow for remote control. They can monitor your home through connected devices.
We like the Nest, because it can almost pinpoint the exact problem and let you know on your smartphone that smoke or carbon monoxide is being emitted from a particular room. Further, you won’t have to subject your guests to that terrible low battery chirp in the middle of the night. The Nest sends a message to your phone before the batteries get to the critical chirp level, allowing you time to have them changed proactively.
A smart thermostat allows the owner to remotely control the temperature of hearing and air conditioning. You can set a comfortable temperature prior to check in and turn it off after check out remotely. Guests often forget this task. Upper and lower temperature limits can also be programmed. Saving on energy is good for your bottom line and the environment. Again, Alexa users have options too.