Apartments with Keyless Entry: Pros and Cons

Are keyless entry systems the future of multifamily living? Discover the balance of convenience and cost as apartment communities weigh the pros and cons of going keyless.

Why Keyless Entry Matters

Keyless entry systems are changing the game for apartment living. Forget fumbling for keys or worrying about losing them. With keyless entry, access is as simple as a tap on your phone.

Imagine the convenience:

  • No More Keys: Unlock doors with your smartphone. No more bulky keychains.
  • Enhanced Security: Digital access logs track who enters and when, boosting security.
  • Guest Access: Easily send temporary access to visitors without hassle.
  • Hands-Free: Voice commands with Siri or Google Assistant make entry effortless.

Modern renters crave these perks. They want hassle-free, secure living. Keyless entry delivers just that, making it a top choice for apartment communities.

Improved Security Features

Keyless entry systems aren't just about convenience. They seriously amp up security in apartment communities. Here's how:

First off, no more physical keys means no more worries about lost or stolen keys falling into the wrong hands. Everything's controlled digitally. You can unlock doors with your smartphone, which is far more secure.

Property managers get complete control over who can enter and when. With digital keys, you can easily update access permissions. Lose your phone? No problem. Access can be quickly deactivated, ensuring security isn’t compromised.

Audit trails are another big plus. Every entry and exit is logged, providing a clear record of who accessed the property and when. This makes it easier to track any suspicious activity and bolster overall security.

Here are some key benefits:

  • Reduced Unauthorized Access: No more physical keys to duplicate or lose.
  • Secure Guest Access: Send temporary digital keys to visitors.
  • Detailed Access Logs: Keep track of every entry for enhanced security.

Integrating video surveillance with keyless entry systems adds another layer of protection. Cameras at entry points can capture footage of everyone coming and going. This not only deters potential intruders but also reduces the need for physical guard staff.

For those considering the best entry systems for multifamily properties, it's crucial to look for solutions that unify vehicle gates and entry doors under a single system, as discussed in our guide on choosing the best apartment entry system.

Ultimately, keyless entry systems provide a modern, efficient way to keep multifamily communities safe.

Convenience for Renters

Keyless entry systems make life a lot easier for renters. No more worrying about losing keys or getting locked out. Instead, all you need is your smartphone to unlock doors and gates.

These systems reduce the stress of lockout incidents. Locked out? Just use your phone to get back in. It's that simple—no need to wait for a locksmith or a spare key.

Carrying around physical keys can be a hassle. With keyless entry, you don’t have to. Everything is digital. Your phone becomes your key, meaning one less thing to carry.

Renters love the ease of use, especially in smart home setups. One credential can grant access to multiple areas. Open your apartment door, the gym, and even the pool with the same app. It’s super efficient.

Here’s why renters find it convenient:

  • No More Lockouts: Use your phone to regain access instantly.
  • Less to Carry: Ditch the bulky keyring and just use your smartphone.
  • Unified Access: One app for all entry points in the community.
  • Guest Access: Easily send Visitor’s Keys to friends and family.

This convenience can also boost the property's appeal. Renters are drawn to tech-savvy living spaces that simplify their routines. Keyless entry systems make properties more marketable and attractive to potential tenants. For more insights on how smartphone apps are revolutionizing multifamily living, check out our detailed guide on opening gates with your cellphone and smart access control.

Simplified Apartment Turnover Process

Keyless entry systems make apartment turnovers a breeze—no more dealing with physical keys. When a tenant moves out, property managers don't need to worry about collecting keys or rekeying locks. Everything's digital and can be updated instantly.

Here's how it helps:

  • No More Physical Key Management: Forget about tracking and collecting keys. Digital access means no more lost keys or unreturned sets.
  • Quick Reprogramming: Easily update access codes for new tenants. This can be done remotely, saving time.
  • Cost Reduction: Traditional lock changes can be pricey. Keyless entry eliminates these costs, making turnovers more budget-friendly.
  • Instant Access: New tenants don't have to wait for keys. They can move in and access the property right away with their smartphone.

This streamlined process not only saves time but also enhances security. With digital keys, there's no risk of old tenants retaining access. Everything is controlled through a centralized system, ensuring only authorized individuals can enter. For a deeper understanding of how Gatewise's mobile access control systems outperform other options like fingerprint locks, you can explore our comparison on Mobile Access Control vs Fingerprint Locks.

For property managers, this means quicker turnovers and less hassle. For new tenants, it’s a seamless move-in experience. Keyless entry systems truly simplify the turnover process, making life easier for everyone involved.

Costs and Investments

Keyless entry systems come with their costs. Understanding these can help you decide if they’re the right fit for your property.

Initial installation costs can vary. For a small setup, installations might take a few hours. Larger systems could take a couple of days. These systems need hardware like smart locks and a central management portal.

Maintenance is another factor. Unlike traditional locks, keyless systems require software updates and occasional hardware checks. However, Gatewise offers a lifetime hardware warranty, so you don’t have to worry about hardware replacement costs.

Ongoing costs can actually save you money. Here’s how:

  • No Rekeying: Traditional locks need rekeying for new tenants. Keyless systems eliminate this cost.
  • Lower Management Costs: Digital management reduces the need for physical key tracking and handling.
  • Enhanced Security: Preventing unauthorized access avoids potential security breaches, which can be costly.
  • Visitor’s Key: No more physical guest keys or shared codes, reducing the risk of misuse.

Weighing these benefits against the costs is essential. For many properties, the investment in keyless entry systems pays off in convenience, security, and reduced long-term expenses. For a deeper understanding of how keyless entry systems can enhance multifamily property investments, you can explore how Gatewise's innovative access control system maximizes capital efficiency and property value by offering smart access solutions that appeal to modern renters and streamline operations.

Potential Drawbacks

Keyless entry systems are fantastic, but let's talk about the potential drawbacks. This isn't about scaring you off but helping you make an informed choice.

First up, security risks. One issue is the wear on keypads. Over time, frequently pressed numbers can become visible, giving away your code. This can make it easier for someone to guess the combination.

Maintenance is another consideration. These systems need regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Software updates, battery replacements, and occasional hardware checks are part of the deal. Neglecting this can compromise security and functionality. For insights on selecting the right installer who can manage these maintenance tasks efficiently, you might find our guide on finding the right access control installers helpful.

Initial costs can be high. Installing a keyless entry system isn't cheap. You'll need to invest in smart locks, a central management portal, and possibly some infrastructure upgrades. For larger properties, this can add up quickly. Our comprehensive guide on cloud-based access control systems discusses these costs in detail and provides insights into long-term ROI.

Here are some key points to consider:

  • Wear and Tear: Keypads can show wear, revealing frequently used numbers.
  • Regular Maintenance: Requires updates and checks to ensure reliability.
  • High Initial Costs: Installation and setup can be pricey, especially for large systems.

While keyless entry systems offer many benefits, it's essential to weigh these potential drawbacks. Balancing convenience and security with cost and maintenance will help you decide if this modern solution is right for your community.

apple iphone opens apartment smart lock

Key Takeaways

Keyless entry systems offer a bunch of benefits for multifamily communities. They boost security, simplify daily routines, and make property management a whole lot easier.

Here’s a quick recap of what we’ve covered:

  • Improved Security: Digital keys reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Detailed access logs help track every entry and exit, adding an extra layer of security.

  • Convenience for Renters: No more worrying about lost keys or lockouts. Your smartphone is your key, making life simpler and more efficient. Plus, sending Visitor's Keys to guests is a breeze.

  • Simplified Turnover Process: Digital access eliminates the hassle of collecting and managing physical keys. Updating access for new tenants is quick and easy, saving time and money.

But, keyless entry isn't without its potential downsides. Initial setup costs can be high, especially for larger properties. Regular maintenance and software updates are necessary to keep the system running smoothly.

Here are some drawbacks to consider:

  • High Initial Costs: Installing the infrastructure for keyless entry can be pricey.
  • Regular Maintenance: Systems need updates and checks to stay reliable.
  • Security Risks: Over time, keypads can show wear, potentially compromising security.

Weigh these pros and cons to see if keyless entry is the right fit for your community. Balancing the benefits of enhanced security and convenience with the costs and maintenance needs will help you make an informed decision.

Why Gatewise is Leading the Charge with Keyless Entry in the Multifamily Sector

Gatewise is revolutionizing multifamily access control with its innovative keyless entry system. Our cloud-based solution offers:

  • Smartphone-based access for residents
  • Dual-technology approach using cellular data and Bluetooth
  • Remote management portal for property managers
  • Voice command compatibility with Siri and Google Assistant
  • Quick installation and lifetime hardware warranty
  • Seamless integration with property management systems

Gatewise combines convenience, security, and efficiency to enhance resident experience and simplify management tasks.

Ready to upgrade your apartment community's access system? Learn more about Gatewise's keyless entry solution and how it can transform your property. Contact us today for a personalized demo.