Lock Boxes Types and Styles

Check out the various styles of security lock boxes

By B. Lumadue

Lock boxes types and styles have evolved over the years, but they still provide the same benefits to realtors and sellers: they make showing houses easier. Security lock boxes give a realtor access to the house whenever interested buyers want to take a look, instead of scheduling a time when the seller is available. Key lock boxes hold keys and other small items. They are attached somewhere near a house -- a front door, gate, meter or deck post -- and can be accessed only by those who have a combination or programmed key card.

Lockable boxes come in a variety of styles. Most realtors now use electronic lock boxes that offer the additional feature of storing entrance activity, so that the office can have a record of when a house was shown. However, other less expensive alternatives in locking boxes can be bought in bulk. Some lock boxes types and styles include:

1. Push-button lock boxes;

2. Keyed lock boxes that require a special key to open.

3. Lock boxes that have a dial, similar to a padlock or bicycle lock.

Find electronic lock box suppliers

Electronic lock boxes are the most commonly used lock boxes in the real estate industry. They can be programmed with a realtor's identification number or the listing's MLS number, making it easy to keep track of entries to the property.
Try: The Risco Lock Box from General Electric is the lock box most used by real estate professionals. It opens with an electronic access key, can be programmed so that access is only given at certain hours and stores the last 50 showing records. The REALTOR lock box from SentriLock is an electronic lock box that can be opened with a card that is inserted into a slot.

Locate push button lock boxes for sale

Push button lock boxes are easy to use since there is no fumbling with combinations or dials. They hold keys and small items in the compartment. The unit can be hung on a doorknob or door frame. Lock boxes are set to a default combination that should be immediately changed .
Try: BuyLockBox has push button lock boxes in either three- or four-digit letter or number combinations. Sanzo Specialties carries a three-button push button lock box that can be customized with identification plates and can be programmed with scheduled access for maintenance, deliveries and staff. A combination can be set with your order for an extra charge.

Get keyed boxes from lock box distributors

Keyed lock boxes are opened with a special key that is coded to the lock box. Most suppliers can match an existing key code to a new box.
Try: Roper Lock Box carries key operated lock boxes that can hang on a door or wall and also offers replacement lids. Keys must be purchased separately. Real Estate Products and Services offers the key operated Crest Key lock box, with custom keys sold separately.

Find dial combination lock boxes

Dial lock boxes are similar to padlocks or lockers. They open by dialing each tumbler to the set number. On most lock boxes, the combination can be reset by turning a screw on the box.
Try: Wholesale Locks carries the Supra wall-mounted dial combination lock box. This box can be installed in a concealed location or near the door. Shurlok lock boxes, available from VictoryStore can be used as a padlock or attached to a surface with an accessory bracket. There is a separate dial for the shackle and the compartment. If one number is dialed incorrectly, that number can be corrected. There is no need to start over and redial all the numbers.