Honestly, I get the appeal of lockboxes—especially the ones that don’t scream “spare key here!”—but for me, they just feel like another thing to buy and worry about maintaining. I’m all about keeping things simple and cheap where possible. Here’s what’s worked for us, especially since we’re on a tight budget:
1. Gave a spare key to a neighbor we trust (they’re usually home more than we are anyway).
2. Made sure each adult in the house has their own key—no more “I left it in my other bag” drama.
3. If you’ve got a yard, those fake rock key holders can blend in pretty well if you tuck them somewhere not super obvious (just don’t pick the first spot you think of).
I totally get the frustration with keys getting moved around inside. That’s happened to us too... but at least I didn’t have to shell out for a lockbox or worry about someone guessing the code. It’s not perfect, but it’s worked so far, and it didn’t cost much at all. Sometimes low-tech is just less stress, you know?
I hear you on the low-tech route—sometimes simple is best. But I’ve had a neighbor lose my spare key once (long story involving a dog and a squirrel, don’t ask), and after that, I started using lockboxes at all my rentals. Maintenance is pretty minimal, and honestly, it’s saved me from late-night “I’m locked out” calls more times than I can count. The fake rock thing is clever, but around here, every landscaper seems to spot them right away... Maybe it’s just my luck, but I’d rather trust a code than my neighbor’s memory.
The fake rock thing is clever, but around here, every landscaper seems to spot them right away...
Ha, I hear you—those fake rocks are like a magnet for anyone with a shovel. Had a client once who hid their key in one and the lawn guy handed it to me like, “You dropped this?” Not exactly stealth mode. I’m with you on the lockbox. At least if someone forgets the code, you can just reset it instead of crawling around the yard looking suspicious.
I’ve seen people try to get creative—like hiding keys in birdhouses or even inside fake sprinkler heads. Honestly, I’m not sure those are much better than the rock. Has anyone actually had luck with a “secret” spot that didn’t get discovered immediately?
I’ve tried a bunch of those “secret” key spots over the years—fake rocks, garden gnomes, you name it. The problem is, anyone who’s done a few lockouts knows to check all the usual suspects, especially if the property looks like a rental. I stopped hiding keys altogether and just went with a lockbox mounted somewhere not super obvious but still accessible. Not exactly James Bond, but it’s way more reliable.
Curious if people have actually had a hidden spot that lasted more than a few months without getting found or if it’s just a matter of time before someone figures it out. Ever had tenants get creative and actually stump you?
