Selling by Owner 101

Lockbox Caper – Combo Boxes Lead to Home Invasion in Detroit ~
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WXYZ, Channel 7 in Detroit, reported on 10/17/2008 that two women allegedly broke into listed properties using lockbox codes.  One of the women worked for an appointment setting service, and used her access to the codes to get into the lockboxes.  The two women allegedly stole thousands of dollars worth of merchandise from several homes before getting caught.

In tough economic times, desperate people will increasingly exploit security vulnerabilities.  While we are proud to provide the most secure lockbox system available to you and your clients – one that is not susceptible to the vulnerabilities created by one-day codes and contractor codes – we also recognize the reality that boxes utilizing combinations are still occasionally used.  For those agents who do utilize combo boxes, we encourage you to change the codes frequently, for your safety and the safety of your clients.

The other option is an Electronic Lockbox where only Realtors can access your property and when they do the lock box electronically logs them in and out by name and date and times.  This is a big advantage.