For decades, the key fob has been the standard for residential access. It was an improvement over the metal key, but it represents a technology that has reached its limits. Today's residents expect the same seamless, digital experience from their home as they get from every other aspect of their lives. For property developers and managers, meeting this expectation is the new frontier of competitive advantage.
An integrated, mobile-first access control system is the foundation of the modern smart building. Here are five ways it delivers significant value beyond simply opening doors.
1. Elevate the Resident Experience from Day One
First impressions are critical. A modern access system eliminates friction at every step of the resident journey.
- Seamless Move-Ins: Provision access remotely and instantly. New residents can use their smartphone as their key the moment their lease begins, without needing to pick up a physical fob.
- Effortless Guest & Delivery Access: Residents can grant temporary, secure access to visitors, dog walkers, or delivery services directly from their phone, eliminating the need for a buzzer system or front-desk staff.
- One Key for Everything: A single mobile credential can grant access to the main entrance, lifts, gym, pool, and the resident's own flat, creating a truly frictionless living experience.
2. Streamline Property Management & Reduce Operational Costs
The daily management of physical keys and fobs is a significant operational drain. A centralised, cloud-based system transforms this.
- Eliminate Re-keying: When a resident moves out, revoke their access with a single click. There are no locks to change or fobs to collect, saving significant time and money.
- Remote Management: Grant time-limited access to maintenance staff or contractors without ever having to meet them on-site.
- Reduced Staffing Burden: Automating access reduces the burden on front-desk or concierge staff, allowing them to focus on higher-value resident services.
3. Create New Revenue Streams with Amenity Control
Your building's amenities are valuable assets. A smart access system allows you to manage and monetise them effectively.
- Tiered Access: Offer premium amenity packages (e.g., 24/7 gym access, co-working space bookings) as an ancillary revenue stream, all managed through access credentials.
- Pay-Per-Use Bookings: Allow residents to book and pay for access to specific resources like event spaces, recording studios, or EV charging stations directly through the resident app.
4. Boost Security with Actionable, Real-Time Insights
Modern systems provide far more than a simple lock-and-unlock function. They are powerful data tools.
- Comprehensive Audit Trails: Maintain a secure, time-stamped log of every access event for every door on your property, enhancing accountability and security.
- Real-Time Alerts: Receive instant notifications for important events, such as a door being propped open, to enable a faster security response.
5. Future-Proof Your Asset and Increase Property Value
A smart, connected building is a more valuable asset. An API-first access system is a foundational investment in the future of your property.
- Foundation for a Resident App: A robust access SDK is the perfect anchor for a building-wide resident app, where you can integrate other services like rent payments, maintenance requests, and community announcements.
- Attract Tech-Savvy Residents: A keyless, mobile-first building is a major selling point for the growing demographic of tenants who expect and demand smart home technology.
- Higher Net Operating Income (NOI): By reducing operational costs and creating new revenue opportunities, a smart access system directly contributes to a healthier bottom line and a higher property valuation.
