Columbus Board of Realtors
The Voice of Real EstateTM in Central Ohio
 
Membership
 
Electronic KeyBox System
DisplayKey now compatible with Windows 7
Beginning October 22, 2009, Windows7 will be widely available for purchase as an upgrade or on newly purchased systems. The DisplayKEY is compatable with Windows 7.  Agents who update their DisplayKEY using the telephone line cradle are not affected by Windows 7. However, those agents who update their DisplayKEY through a USB connection on their PC will need to reinstall the USB Drives for the DisplayKEY. You may follow these instructions, or you may contact Agent Support at (877) 699-6787.


Members of the Columbus Board of REALTORS® (CBR) use an electronic KeyBox system to provide access to real estate professionals showing listed property. The KeyBox hangs on a listing property and holds the key to the property. A special keypad is used to open the KeyBox to get the key. The central computer tracks all KeyBox activity.

The electronic KeyBox system offers a number of advantages

Security – The KeyBox is controlled electronically and uses codes to allow access by authorized personnel only. The KeyBox controls the hours during which a listing can be accessed and validates access privileges. Keypad holders must update their keypads daily.

Convenience – Authorized REALTORS®, appraisers, and inspectors who have joined the system can access the KeyBox for showings, appraisals, inspections, etc. via their keypad instead of having to drive back and forth to get the keys or require the listing agent to meet them at the property.

Tracking – When a SuperKey is placed in the KeyBox, the SuperKey owners name, office, telephone number and time entered are recorded in the KeyBox. This way, listing agents are able to track the time and date of every entry to the listed property. After the information is recorded, which takes just six seconds, the key to the property will drop down from the bottom of the KeyBox. This is a very useful function because if the key to the property was not returned to the KeyBox, the listing agent can read the KeyBox to find out who was the last entrant and call the entrant to locate the key.

Those entering the property must still call the listing agent to schedule a showing appointment.  Those who do not call to schedule a showing appointment can be fined and eliminated from the system.

Additional Information
For the KeyBox transfer/return form, click here
For a chart of compatible devices using eKey and/or Tempo Wireless, click here (PDF)
CBR members looking for more information regarding the KeyBox system may contact Tammy Foor, KeyBox administrator, at (614) 475-4000 ext. 282 or e-mail TFoor@columbusrealtors.com

eKey versus Tempo Wireless
Members using the electronic keybox system have the ability to upgrade to the eKey which offers much greater functionality. With the eKey, members can use their cell phone or PDA as their keypad. One the most significant benefits is access to the MLS data. However, as Tempo Wireless will also provide access to the MLS data for free, here are the differences between the two products.

 e-Key Professional 
  • Access to MLS data via syncing through your computer
  • MLS data is static (updated once per day)
  • More features, including mapping
  • Does not work on BlackBerry devices
  • Costs $24.66/month + tax
 Tempo Wireless
  • Access to all MLS data from anywhere
  • MLS data is live (updated in real time)
  • Device must have a wireless data plan
  • Fewer features (does not include mapping)
  • Free

Both options require using a compatible device; you can have both the eKey and Tempo Wireless on the same device.
 
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