Smart Lock Generation Codes

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"Turn temp down once the motion sensor reports no movement for an hour on a departure date, lock the door in case they didn't,"

This sounds overly complicated, and complicated things are subject to fail. I would say:

1) With erentallock, it set so their code automatically expires upon checkout. The door is already "locked" because no one can now get in.

2) For departure, who cares about resetting the thermostat depending on if there is no motion? If they are supposed to leave, then who cares about their comfort? This looks simpler and less prone to failure...

$70 "Honeywell Wi-Fi 7-Day Programmable Thermostat with Built-In WiFi" at Lowes with features:
-Wi-Fi enabled thermostat allows for remote access via smartphone or computer
-Free smartphone app for iOS and Android operating systems
-Can be configured to meet almost any scheduling requirement - selectable 7-Day Programmable Thermostat with option to select multiple days at a time; 4 program periods per day
-Automatically downloads software updates
-Smart Response Technology - thermostat learns your heating/cooling cycles, then optimizes to deliver the right temperature at the right time
-Auto change from heating to cooling
-Permanent and temporary holds

Hey, BlueMtn

Could you send that e rental lock information to me? I will be setting up my email templates over the next week or so,

You know, I never thought about it. And probably not wise to post phone numbers or email here (I get enough spam!).

There isn't a person to person message function on this forum, is there?

Maybe just post the instruction snippet here?

I have a RemoteLock and love it!!

There are two analog models that generate codes without the need for wifi (RL2000 and RL4000). I've had the RL2000 for a year and it's been so convenient for guests to enter the key and enter the house. In my home's area, we're prone to afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months so the electricity/wifi often gets knocked out temporarily which is why I wasn't keen on having a wifi based lock.

There shouldn't be a concern about scammers because the lock code is only good for the dates/times you designate. If a guest arrives at 9am but the lock was programmed to coincide with the guest's reservation at 4pm, they can't get into the home until 4pm when the lock will recognize the code. I once had a guest who forgot something in the home after they departed and I had to generate a new code for them because their original one expired.

And now RL integrates with Airbnb and HomeAway/VRBO so that when a reservation is made via those platforms, a lock code is automatically generated and included with the guest's booking information.

I decided to purchase a Schlage lock with touchpad for my personal home because my kids keep losing their keys. I like the model that I selected because the touchpad numbers won't wear out - while this might not be a problem for rentals since new numbers are continually generated, the touchpad for your home should be made of materials that won't wear down so that one could figure out a code based on the worn out numbers. The RL4000 also has this type of touchpad.

I do not plan (when I start) to let the codes to my smartlock go to any guest until check-in. There is a national scam going on I read recently where people pretend to be guests, get the code and then get into the unit, steal/vandalize and then leave. It doesn't prevent damage if the code is not active until check-in, if you are not verifying those who show up!

I have decided to use multiple checks on potential guests - OTA reviews of them (no negative or perhaps only if at least one positive), SafelyStay which will do a background check on the booking guest (not a credit check!), require an ID, verify the ID against the credit card when they show up, and eyeball them.

When they present themselves at the Property for check-in, they will be directed to press a Ring Video doorbell, which alerts me. I live in the neighborhood so I will either meet them in person or over the Ring Video.

I will verify the people against the ID, check for things like trying to sneak pets in, how many people show up, etc. If the doorbell doesn't work, they can call my cell. That gives two contact methods in case of problems. Once verified, THEN they get the code!

Here is a new background check service for hosts. Only $5/ report. They're super fast, they don't ask the guest a bunch of questions causing them to not book, and give you a report on how the guest has behaved in previous rentals. Past is the best indicator of the future!https://checkflow.webflow.io/

That kind of micro-management is fine if you only have 1-2 rentals and you have nothing better to do. For me, I want automation. I care not if they sneak extra people in or they have bad reviews or whatever. If they damage something I can charge their deposit. If it's really bad, I can use AirBNB's host guarantee, if they burn the place down I have insurance. I like to spend my limited time on Earth building my business and enjoying life.

Ever occurred to you that owners/managers who allow over occupancy are the reason that localities ban short term rentals? You may not care if they bring 20 people into 2 bd place, but the neighborhood might. I just wish ownwrs/managers thought just a little bit outside their direct profit box.

Another reason to not allow over occupancy is when property is on well/septic. Overoccupying can stress those systems to the point of failure, and remediation will be way more than any deposit. Airbnb will not pay for it either. 

That's not at all why STRs get banned. It's about taxes, lobbying by hotel industry, and taking away housing from locals. You should know that Victoria. But sure, I'll start watching my cameras like a hawk, and will swoop down and charge the guests a fee and/or kick them out for sneaking an extra person in. Because that's what I want to do with my time..... NOT!  :) 

 I did not suggest watching cameras. I suggested minding overoccupancy (however you do it). And yes it is why VRs are being banned. In my own HOA we are fighting against a neighbor who snuck in  and bought a house in our HOA where rules say "no commercial activity" but since it is an old HOA, the bylaws did not specifically mention VRs as commercial activity as VRs were not a thing when HOA was formed 30+ years ago.  he frequently rents to large noisy parties, does not monitor them and the whole street is up in arms considering legal action.