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6 / 8

Pros:

• Bluetooth-enabled
• In-home locking and unlocking
• Affordable
• Auto-lock option
• View history log and receive notifications through Kwikset app

Cons:

• Must be in Bluetooth range to control lock with phone

Many people use Airbnb in cities, beach resorts and other popular tourist destinations, but sometimes they want to get away. Far away. If you’re operating an Airbnb in the middle of nowhere, don’t hide a key under a fake rock.

Even without Wi-Fi, Kwikset’s Aura Bluetooth Door Lock allows Airbnb owners to set individual codes with time limits for guests, cleaners and contractors. You can control the lock with a smartphone. You have to be in Bluetooth range, but for off-the-grid locations with no internet, the Kwikset Aura has a lot of perks.

7 / 8

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Durable
• 5-in-1 entry: Keypad, smartphone, auto unlock, shake to open and key
• Bright backlight for nighttime use
• Easy to install

Cons:

• Doesn’t have all of the smart tech features as high-end models

Smart locks offer tons of helpful services for Airbnb owners—Wi-Fi accessibility, smart home integration and timed access codes. Unfortunately, smart locks commonly cost several hundred dollars.

Luckily, the Ultraloq U-Bolt Smart Lock gives Airbnb owners plenty of great options for a fraction of the cost. For less than $160, Ultraloq gives hosts keypad and Bluetooth accessibility, auto locking and integration with popular smart home devices.

This lock doesn’t have all the bells and whistles. But Amazon verified purchaser Mike Dowgwillo says, “Every now and then you find an exceptional product on Amazon. My first was a $20 grill cover that was built to withstand 1 million years in the sun and rain. My second is this lock.”

“We tried multiple brands of cheaper ones for family and friends (it’s kinda been my go-to gift; lock + install) and then we got this,” Dowgwillo says. “It is way more heavy duty than any of the others we have tried. It is easy to install and is highly secure.”

8 / 8

Pros:

• Built-in alarm technology
• Fingerprint-resistant, classic design
• Works with Amazon Key, Alexa and Google Assistant
• Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled
• Easy to install

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Users recommend installing Schlage Home app and Amazon Key for maximum features

If you’re looking to splurge on a smart lock with a thoughtful design, the Schlage Encode is one to look at. It’s a little pricier than other smart locks on our list, but the Schlage name and enhanced security features justify the splurge.

The fingerprint-resistant touchscreen keeps prying eyes from guessing your guests’ passcodes, and the Encode’s built-in alarm technology alerts you to forced entry. This smart lock comes ready to use, too, with built-in Wi-Fi and compatibility with multiple smart home devices.

“Wish I bought sooner,” writes Amazon verified purchaser Mary C. “We put it on our Airbnb door. Now I want one for my house.”

What to Consider When Buying a Smart Lock for an Airbnb

Smart locks are the way of the future. For Airbnbs, they can make your guests’ arrival smoother, provide an extra layer of safety and make managing the property easier. Before deciding on which smart lock will work best for you, take these things into consideration:

• Installation: If your door is already fitted for a knob and lock, installing a new smart lock should be pretty simple with the help of a few tools. You can hire a professional to install it if the instructions seem slightly out of your league. Always read the product description to ensure the lock is compatible with your door size, shape and material.
• Entry system: Smart locks use several different tech features to activate. There are fingerprint, code and Bluetooth/WiFi or app options that allow you to gain entry. Consider what makes the most sense for your Airbnb regarding your guests and location. For example, we suggest a smart lock that works great for off-the-grid Airbnbs.
• Features: Like with all technology, special features upgrade your experience and make you more connected. Some smart locks can connect with other smart home devices, provide real-time updates and allow total lock control from your phone. Others let you create custom entry codes, which is especially useful for Airbnb owners who manage a lot of guests.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’m an Associate Shopping Editor at Family Handyman with expertise in interior design, home decor, gardening and outdoor trends. We consulted several experts, including Ally Childress, a Dallas-based licensed electrician, and Qaid Jivan, a tech consultant and Airbnb Superhost who runs a top-rated stay in Vancouver.

How We Found the Best Smart Locks for Airbnbs

We consulted several experts to find the best Airbnb smart locks on the market. From there, we researched Airbnb smart locks—looking at cost, safety rating, technological features and consumer reviews—to determine which smart locks are the best for securing your property and are worth your time and money.

FAQ

Do I need a smart lock for an Airbnb?

Let’s put it this way: You don’t want to spend time, energy and resources waiting for guests to arrive to let them into the property when they can easily and securely let themselves in with a smart lock. Smart locks are also a great way to keep your rental safe if a guest attempts to return to the property without permission at a later date. With unique entry codes and other smart features, you remove such risk.

Is Schlage Encode good for an Airbnb?

Yes—and it made our list! Schlage Encode gets great reviews from Airbnb hosts who prefer an easy-to-install, sturdy and reliable option. Users also report that Schlage has outstanding customer service.

Do you need a professional to install your smart lock?

Not necessarily. Many smart door locks are easy to install DIY-style. However, hiccups can occur depending on Wi-Fi connectivity issues and whether you have a custom-made door. Many of the best smart locks for Airbnb rentals offer multiple lock options to circumvent any issues.

Jivan recommends having a professional install it if you’re unsure about what you’re doing or unable to properly connect your smart lock to your Wi-Fi. “If you have an older generation lock, it can sometimes require being placed closer to your router,” he says. “I made this mistake on my first suite and had to go through a major headache to link it properly.”

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