What's your system for handling keys? We have several SFHs. I've always just kept keys to each property. I tote around a bunch of keys all the time and have ended up with dozens of mystery keys over the years. I see Landlord Locks mentioned here occasionally. I know there are now keyless entry options available too. (I don't think we'd do this due to the upfront costs, but maybe.) Just curious what works (and doesn't work) for others. Thanks!

Landlordlocks.com

I use the iCore series from LL locks. This allows not only master keys for all properties, but you can also "Swap" a core out in about 5 seconds with the Control Key. Costs a few extra bucks, but worth every penny!

Also use LL locks.........they typically have a convention special going on so now might be the time for others on the fence to hop onboard.

I am a contractor and locksmith. The one mistake landlord make is putting the address on the keychain. Then when someone gets a hold of the keys, they know where their next score is located.

A landlord friend had their master keys to their 5 buildings and keys to their 4 homes kept in their vehicle's center counsel. Then when having their car washed, the vacuum guy stole the keys and broke into 30 units and homes. The owner/landlord didn't have a clue the keys were taken. They tried to hide it and not rekey all their rentals, ended up getting sued by her tenants.

I put a dummy address on my key chains. Like the name of one property street is "Gross Ave.". On on that key ring I put "Sick Way". I have two homes on that street so I add Unit "A" and Unit "B". "A" was my first purchase on that street.

At least if these keys are stolen, I have time to respond.

For the LandlordLocks ones, both the "normal" ones and the iCore ones can be swapped out in under 30 seconds.

I do like the iCore design, but didn't know about them until I had already bought at least 10 of the normal ones. So I've continued to standardize on those. Just because I don't want to buy all new and I don't want to have a mix of both.

-John...

I have used landlord locks for fifteen years and love them

With the increased postage costs and increased rekeying costs and increased turnaround time over those years it is not as appealing as it once was

I use Landlord Locks. I love the design, but have had problems recently where the quality doesn't seem to be the same. A call to Ernie resulted in him recommending that I squirt some Houdini spray in the locks 3-4 times a year. Never had to do that kind of maintenance with even my cheapest locks. That said, I haven't found a better system. I love the convenience of picking up the phone and having my keys and/or locks show up in the mail a few days later.

I do have electronic locks on the exterior doors of my rooming houses. Tenant turnover is higher than with a SFH and residents don't always leave on the best of terms. It's helpful that they know I can lock them out with a couple of taps on my phone. I had two residents ask me this week to program in a different code for them. They'd given their code to someone else and regretted it. The bedrooms have keys on a master key system.

I master key all my places because I am lazy. Well, I might have a couple that aren't master keyed right now as I was going to get away from the hassle of doing the master keying.

That being said I keep a book like thing in my truck that has all the keys in it, hung with velcro and a tag.

Each tag is labeled with my unit code. I use the codes when I have receipts for them as well to help me keep track.

This way if someone steals my truck, or just the book, I don't have to rush to rekey everything right then. I do maintenance on other people's property as well and have tags for them. Usually just initials.

I looked into LL Locks and they seemed to have a quality product. I was considering slowly moving to them. Need to know how well the locks hold up to the rain and snow when no storm doors or overhangs are available. Now I hear that the quality might be lacking, so that's a no go for me.

As it is I keep a master keyed set of locks in my truck in case an emergency rekey is needed.

I do like the idea of having only a deadbolt keyed. Would save time and money on the properties that have that option.