When listings are entered into Bright MLS, there is a section to provide instructions to agents.  Buyer agents typically use the link provided to schedule showings.  The link takes them to a program called Showingtime.  Listing agents can include and add instructions, provide access information, manage a calendar for when showings may occur, and any other restrictions.   When the buyer’s agent accesses the lockbox at the listing, the details are tracked in a separate program called Sentrilock.

Even with all the technology, Sentrilock data is often incomplete.  For instance, if you want to know exactly how long an agent is in your home or if they have left, you may not be able to rely on Sentrilock to provide the information.

Even worse, the programs are not in sync.  For instance, a listing agent could block time for no showings or set a particular schedule in one program, and an agent with access to the lockbox could still access the key and home during the prohibited times.  In addition, an agent does not need an appointment to use the lockbox to enter.  Essentially, you could be working at home, cooking a meal, or coming out of the shower, and anyone with lockbox access could decide to pop in.

• Are there lockbox settings that might help prevent unwanted entry?
• Are they reliable? Not necessarily.
• Is it acceptable for an agent (or anyone with lockbox access) to enter without permission? Not unless specifically stated in the instructions.  Otherwise, it is illegal to enter the home outside of an approved time and a violation of our code of ethics.  Realtors reported to the board could lose their license and/or pay a hefty fine.  Unfortunately, it is often not reported.  If the showing leads to a contract, most sellers will overlook the misconduct.

Recently an agent entered a listing during a black out (no entry) timeframe on one of my listings. The only consolation was the listing was vacant (although this was not noted), so the sellers were not vulnerable.  However, it does not negate the lack of professionalism and disregard for seller boundaries.

A home is always vulnerable when on the market.  During my brief time affiliated with Zillow I was contacted to show a $4 million dollar home in Great Falls.  The requester had some information about our group that was not readily available to the public, so we initially thought the lead was legitimate.  Upon running a quick background check, we learned the person had over 50 legal infractions ranging from public intoxication to robbery charges.  The only reason we were able to learn this information was because he used his real phone number when he made the request.  Many online users use fake information.

The time a home is on the market is precarious.  There is a huge reliance on ethical realtors and honest prospects.  Whenever possible, I recommend the home is vacant when listing.  Not only does this protect your possessions but, more importantly, it protects you!

Open houses also invite nefarious activities.  It is very difficult to vet the people who enter your home.  Many visitors provide false names and contact information.  There is no way to know if they are actual buyers or there to stake out the house.  People posing as buyers could be there to see the contents, access points, check for security, look for guns or prescriptions.  Is it common?  No.  Does it happen?  Yes.

As listings agents we do everything we can to manage the process, but we cannot always control (or even predict) the outcomes.  I could share countless stories…finding a lockbox wide open with the key exposed, doors and windows left open, buyers and agents interrupting showings, or walking the property and looking in windows at all times of the day.   There are good reasons sellers do not go on the open market or want to expose their home sale.  When discussing the best strategy for your home sale, no situation or amount of money should compromise your safety.

Last year’s changes have resulted in an abundance off-market sales.  There is so much happening in our local market that is not accessible via the internet.  Many sellers are opting to avoid the crowds and public advertising, and it’s working.  I look forward to sharing more insight this year.