Property Operations

Smart Access Evolution: From Keyless Entry to Seamless security

Luciana Nogales

Smart access is at the heart of the transformation of vacation rental industry. The use of technology to control and manage access to physical spaces, such as buildings, rooms, or vehicles has become essential for some property managers. 

These systems can include a variety of features, such as keyless entry, remote access control, and real-time monitoring. They are also often integrated with other smart technologies, such as security cameras, sensors, and mobile apps, to provide a comprehensive and seamless access management solution.

Leading this charge is Igloohome, a pioneer in smart lock solutions, now partnered with Doinn, a property management platform specializing in cleaning and maintenance coordination. Together, we’re key elements to redefine how hosts and property managers operate, offering seamless, secure, and scalable solutions for modern rentals.

Smart Access

What Is Smart Access?

Easy, it refers to keyless entry systems that allow guests, cleaners, or maintenance staff to enter a property via secure digital methods like PIN codes, mobile apps, or Bluetooth. Unlike traditional keys, smart access solutions provide:

  • 24/7 remote control for owners.
  • Unique, time-sensitive access for guests or service providers.
  • Enhanced security with encrypted technology.
  • Integration with booking platforms and property management tools.

For vacation rentals, this means no more lost keys, rushed check-ins, or security vulnerabilities—just a smoother experience for everyone.

Additionally it’s also assured this will improve your performance on platforms like Airbnb which states “Listings with connected smart locks have an average check-in rating of 4.95”

This is exactly why if you haven’t added smart access to your short term rental property today we’ll explain why you should and suggest some options to move forward with it.

Benefits of Smart Access

One of the key benefits of smart access is the convenience it offers to users. With keyless entry and remote access control, individuals can easily enter and exit a space without the need for physical keys or access cards. This not only eliminates the risk of lost or stolen keys, but also provides a more seamless and efficient access experience. 

Specially for the vacation rentals experience, this can help elevate the guest stay. Here’s why hosts are ditching keys:

🔑 Bye-Bye, Key Drama: Lost keys? Lockouts? Not your problem anymore. Guests get unique PIN codes that magically expire when they check out.

📲 Remote Control Magic: Manage access from your phone, whether you’re sipping margaritas in Bali or watching Netflix at home.

⭐️ Guest Experience Glow-Up: Impress guests with seamless check-ins. They’ll rave about your property (hello, 5-star reviews!).

⏰ Turbocharged Efficiency: Cleaners, repair crews, and co-hosts get temporary access. No more waiting around for someone to unlock the door.

In addition, smart access systems can be integrated with your PMS, allowing the information to flow from one system to the other which can help as mentioned before to control and monitor access from cleaning or maintenance service providers. 

Another major benefit of smart access is the enhanced security it provides. Traditional locks and keys can be easily compromised, but smart access systems offer advanced security features, such as encryption, authentication, and real-time monitoring. 

This helps to prevent unauthorized access and provides a greater level of protection for both individuals. Smart access systems also offer insights and data on access patterns and trends, allowing for better visibility and control over who is entering and exiting the property.

Igloohome’s Solution: Built for STR

Smart access technology encompasses a wide range of hardware and software that work together to provide secure and convenient access control. 

As well, there are a variety of options of key technologies type from: biometrics such as,as fingerprints, to lockboxes. 

Today we’ll discuss Igloohome’s smart locks that are designed specifically for the demands of vacation rentals. Key features include:

  • Auto-Generated PIN Codes: Sync with Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking.com to create unique codes for each guest, active only during their stay.
  • Offline Functionality: No Wi-Fi? No problem. Igloohome locks work offline, ideal for remote properties.
  • Battery-Powered Durability: Up to 2 years of battery life ensures uninterrupted operation.
  • Multi-User Access: Assign temporary codes for cleaners, maintenance crews, or co-hosts.
  • Audit Trail: Track who accessed the property and when for added security.

These features empower hosts to manage properties remotely while offering guests a frictionless, tech-forward experience.

The Igloohome and Doinn Partnership: Streamlining Operations

Igloohome’s collaboration with Doinn works basically from PIN code of each keylock received through the PMS we can then automate the property management workflows.

Doinn automates scheduling for cleaning, maintenance, and inspections, and with Igloohome, easy access performing these services becomes even more efficient:

  • Seamless Coordination: When guests depart, cleaning crews can access easily via Igloohome locks.
  • Real-Time Updates: Property managers receive alerts through the Doinn app when tasks are completed, ensuring the property is ready for the next guest.
  • Enhanced Guest Experience: Faster turnover times mean fewer delays, while keyless entry eliminates check-in hassles.

🔒 Security Concerns with Smart Access: Let’s Get Real

While smart access technology offers numerous benefits, there are also concerns regarding security and privacy. One of the main concerns is the potential for unauthorized access or hacking of smart access systems. As with any connected device or system, there is always a risk of security breaches or vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors.

Another concern is the privacy implications of collecting and storing biometric data for authentication purposes. Biometric data is highly sensitive and personal, and there are concerns about how this data is being used and protected by smart access systems. It’s important for organizations implementing smart access technology to have robust security measures in place to protect biometric data from unauthorized access or misuse.

In addition to security and privacy concerns, there are also potential legal and regulatory implications of using smart access technology. Organizations must ensure that they are compliant with data protection laws and regulations when collecting and storing personal data for access control purposes.

“But wait—what if hackers crack my smart lock?!” Relax, we’ve got answers. While no tech is 100% hack-proof (looking at you, old-school padlocks), Igloohome locks are Fort Knox-level secure:

🔮 The Future of Smart Access: Buckle Up, Hosts!

The vacation rental world is evolving faster than a TikTok trend and trying to predict it is almost impossible but we’ll share some of the trends we can visualize here soon rather than later. 

  • The use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance security and user experience. AI-powered smart access systems can analyze access patterns and behaviors to detect anomalies or potential security threats in real-time. 
  • Blockchain technology to secure access control data. Blockchain offers a decentralized and tamper-proof way to store access logs and authentication data, providing a high level of security and transparency for smart access systems.

Overall, the future of smart access is bright, with continued advancements in technology driving innovation in this space. As smart access systems become more advanced and interconnected, they will continue to provide secure and convenient access control solutions for a wide range of industries and applications. 

However, it’s important for organizations implementing smart access technology to address security and privacy concerns to ensure that these systems are used responsibly and ethically.

Let’s face it: Smart access isn’t just a trend—it’s the new normal. With Igloohome, you’ll save time, dazzle guests, and maybe even reclaim your weekends. Ready to join the smart access revolution? 👉 Visit Igloohome today to explore their smart locks and embrace the future of vacation rentals today—keyless, contactless, and stress-free.