Homeowners, beware! Unauthorized entry and lockbox risks jeopardize your safety. Whether you are selling your home or simply ensuring its security, understanding the potential risks posed by lockboxes and unauthorized entries is crucial. Unfortunately, unauthorized entry can be gained by anyone, not just agents. As the Broker for Ohio Broker Direct with decades of experience, I am aware of numerous incidents of unauthorized entries and the resulting dangers. This article, Seller Alert: Unauthorized Entry – Lockbox Risks Jeopardize Your Safety, highlights the need for vigilance and awareness to protect your home and family.

Imagine this: You and your partner are in a private moment, and suddenly, a Buyer Agent enters your bedroom with their client. Or perhaps your children are home alone after school, and a Buyer Agent gives unauthorized access to a third party like an appraiser, contractor, or inspector without your knowledge. What if valuables go missing because someone wandered unsupervised through your home? Unfortunately, this happens more often than you might think.

As the principal Broker for Ohio Broker Direct, with decades of experience in the real estate industry, I’ve heard countless horror stories resulting from bad practices. Despite reminders posted in various MLSs and numerous complaints filed by or on behalf of Sellers, unethical Buyer Agents continue to ignore proper protocol. Regulations require written permission from the Seller or their representative before granting unsupervised entry. Complaints are often sent directly to the Broker responsible for the Buyer Agent’s actions and filed with various boards of Realtors rather than the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing (REPL). While Brokers can return an agent’s license to the state and a Board of Realtors can issue fines, require continuing education, and suspend an agent from the MLS, only REPL has the authority to suspend or revoke a license. For that reason, I would encourage the public to file a complaint directly with REPL. Their investigators conduct thorough inquiries, which can take over a year to resolve. The attorneys at REPL are dedicated to safeguarding the public’s interests through rigorous investigations and legal actions.

Here are some real-life incidents:

1. Unauthorized Entry: A Seller caught a Buyer (on camera) entering the property without their agent present, allowing unknown contractors and inspectors into the home. The Agent showed up much later. The fines for such violations can be significant. In 2023, REPL received 480 real estate complaints, including allegations of violations related to advertising, unauthorized access, property management and more, several of which resulted in suspensions and license revocations.
2. Unsupervised Access: Agents often justify their misconduct by claiming they were running late and handed the code to the Buyer while en route. However, what if the Buyer is a criminal or shares the code with someone else? Depending on the service used, codes might not be revocable remotely, which is deeply concerning. Agents also provide unsupervised access to appraisers, contractors, and inspectors and may even tell Sellers they cannot be present during inspections. Sellers, you have every right to attend appraisals, inspections, showings, and final walk-throughs—it’s your home.

Did you know that SentriLock, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR)? Many boards of Realtors, like the Cincinnati Ohio Board of Realtors, mandate paying for NAR owned SentriLock services, even if unused, to increase dues and generate revenue. As a result, real estate professionals, especially those in Cincinnati MLS, must pay extra fees for a service they don’t intend to use, despite preferring other products. Complaints are dismissed as the fee is mandatory and non-negotiable, prioritizing profit over member concerns. Realtors are also worried about potential risks like unauthorized entry or theft, adding to their liability concerns. This requirement burdens Realtors with extra costs and liabilities.

Risks of Non-Revocable Codes

SentriLock for example, offers several ways to provide access to lockboxes for non-members, including FlexCodes, One Day Codes, and the SentriConnect app. However, there are risks associated with certain types of access codes, particularly those that cannot be revoked.

FlexCodes: FlexCodes are temporary access codes that can be used by non-members, homeowners, contractors, and other agents. They can be activated for a minimum of 30 minutes and up to 31 days. While FlexCodes offer flexibility, they also pose a risk if they fall into the wrong hands during the activation period.

One Day Codes: One Day Codes are temporary access codes valid for 24 hours. These codes can be used by non-members, homeowners, contractors, and out-of-area agents. A significant risk with One Day Codes is that they cannot be revoked. Once issued, if the lock itself is not removed, if the code is shared or compromised, there is no way to prevent unauthorized access for the remainder of the 24-hour period.

SentriConnect App: The SentriConnect app provides a more secure option by allowing listing agents to grant temporary access to non-members. Agents can schedule access for up to 14 days in advance and have the ability to revoke access at any time. Non-members receive an email with information about the access, including the lockbox serial number, code, and valid dates. This method reduces the risk of unauthorized access, as access can be controlled and revoked by the listing agent.

In summary, while SentriLock provides various methods of access, it is crucial to consider the risks associated with codes that cannot be revoked.

Alternative Lockbox Advantages:

Here are the advantages of using alternative lockboxes, focusing on special door code access, garage code access, homeowner presence, and remote code resetting:

1. Special Door Code Access: Alternative door locks that provide unique access codes can be changed by Seller frequently, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized entry. This feature offers the Seller more control over who can enter the property and when, enhancing overall security.
2. Garage Code Access: Some locking mechanisms can be programmed to grant access only to specific areas, such as the garage, without providing access to the entire home. This minimizes security risks and ensures that only authorized individuals can enter designated parts of the property.
3. Homeowner Presence: Allowing the property owner to be present ensures that they are fully aware of who is entering their home and when. This approach adds an extra layer of security and provides peace of mind for the property owner.
4. Remote Code Resetting: Certain locking mechanisms and security systems enable sellers to unlock the door or reset access codes remotely as needed, eliminating the need for a physical visit to the property. This option offers convenience while maintaining high security standards. These features provide enhanced security, control, and convenience compared to traditional lockboxes, making them a valuable option for real estate professionals and homeowners.

In conclusion, Seller Alert: Unauthorized Entry – Lockbox Risks Jeopardize Your Safety cannot be overstated. Homeowners must remain vigilant and aware of the potential dangers posed by unauthorized entries and traditional lockboxes. By understanding these risks and exploring alternative security measures, such as special door code access, garage code access, and being present during showings, homeowners can significantly enhance their property’s security and control.

Ultimately, protecting your home and family is paramount. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, you can safeguard your property from unauthorized entries and ensure a secure environment for your loved ones.