Why Security Matters During Showings
When your home is listed for sale, scheduled showings give licensed real estate professionals and qualified buyers access to the property.
Showings are a normal and necessary part of the selling process. Issues are uncommon, but it is still smart to use simple safeguards that create accountability and protect your property, privacy, and peace of mind.
DUFFY’s approach is simple:
Maintain controlled access
Create accountability
Deter inappropriate behavior
Protect your property and privacy
Security is not about fear. It is about professionalism, preparation, and smart systems.
1. Controlled Access with Supra Lockbox
We use the Supra electronic lockbox system to manage access to your home.
Every access event is electronically tracked
We can see exactly who opened the lockbox and when
Only licensed real estate professionals with a paid Supra subscription can access it
An agent’s license must be active and in good standing
The general public cannot access the lockbox
Sellers do not have access to the lockbox
Access credentials cannot be shared casually
This system creates a digital record and built-in accountability for every showing.
2. Front Door Recording Notice
We recommend placing a visible notecard at the front entry that states:
“This home is being recorded by video and audio.”
This notice can serve as a behavioral deterrent and reminds everyone entering the property that the home should be treated with care.
Exterior cameras (such as doorbell or driveway cameras) are also recommended when available.
Note: Always confirm current local and state rules regarding audio recording before using audio inside the home.
3. Interior Door Lock Reminders
Inside the home, we recommend placing a small notecard at each exterior-access door (garage, patio, basement, side entry) that reads:
“Please ensure this door is locked before leaving.”
Agents and buyers can become distracted during showings. A simple visual reminder significantly reduces the chance of a door being unintentionally left unsecured.
4. Secure or Remove Irreplaceable & Sensitive Items
As with any situation where multiple individuals will be touring a property, we recommend removing or securely storing irreplaceable, highly valuable, or sensitive items before listing.
This may include:
- Jewelry
- Firearms
- Cash
- Prescription medications
- Financial documents and checkbooks
- Passports and personal records
- Small electronics
If an item would be difficult or impossible to replace, it should not remain accessible during showings.
5. Protect Personal Information
We also recommend limiting publicly visible personal details such as:
- Family calendars
- Stacks of mail
- School schedules
- Personal paperwork
- Personal photos that reveal private details
This helps protect your privacy while your home is being actively marketed.
6. Garage & Secondary Access Points
Garages and secondary entrances are often overlooked.
We recommend:
Removing spare keys from vehicles
Removing garage door remotes from parked cars
Locking the interior garage entry door
Ensuring all secondary entrances are secured after each showing
Our Philosophy
A well-managed listing should feel organized, professional, and secure.
These measures are about structure, accountability, and peace of mind while your home is on the market.
DUFFY does not rely on assumption. We rely on systems.