Managers of multifamily properties tackle a range of responsibilities from maintenance to tenant communication – and everything in between – so making the most of top tech tools can be invaluable. Enter Salto’s Homelok smart access solution, offering safety, security, and simplicity.
Salto, a leading access control solutions provider, made a name for itself with smart locks and access control products, developing its innovative SVN data-on-card technology that doesn’t need complicated infrastructure or require expensive wiring to every door.
In supporting the market’s evolution and the needs of property managers, there has been an incredible rise in demand for cloud-based systems. Homelok pairs Salto’s proven hardware with advanced security technology to create a modern cloud-based access control system specifically designed for multifamily building use.
Providing simple solutions
Multifamily housing technology can be cumbersome and overcomplicated, often requiring separate access tools for the main entrance, common areas, and unit entry.
“We don’t believe that the combination of swipe, tap, and key offers a great user experience and doesn’t maximize security,” explains Preston Grutzmacher, Residential Business Leader, Salto North America. “We have invented technologies allowing management to easily access every property opening from the main entry to the garage, elevator, fitness room, staff leasing office, and beyond,” he continues. “By blending hardware and software, we can manage all those access points through a single software suite.”
Time-saving tech
Often managers have to re-program each lock every time a new occupant arrives, spending precious time on tedious tasks. With Homelok, managers can oversee all residents through a single portal. This means that managers can dispense resident key cards, assign mobile credentials, and appoint passcodes – all from the convenience of their smartphone. Homelok allows property managers the ability to use their mobile device to complete any task previously carried out from their computer, from moving in a resident to remotely opening the package delivery room, changing a user, adjusting permissions, and more.
Move-in and move-out administration is a major part of a manager’s workflow, taking up time and leaving room for human error. Homelok is working to integrate with major accounting software programs to simplify this process. With this integration, when a new resident signs a lease, they will be entered into the system with a name, unit number, and lease start and end date – and that information allows for access control. These details will sync with the property management system for a completely seamless process.
Additionally, in the past, managers have been challenged with renters looking to share access to their units by simply disclosing their usernames and passwords with a friend. Homelok challenges this practice, requiring users to access the system using their SSO log-ins for Google, Apple, or Microsoft accounts, rather than local system credentials. While many people may share a username and password with a friend, most people hesitate to allow friends full online access via their web sign-in. This feature acts as a strong deterrent for sharing unit access, offering a significantly more secure process.
The resident experience
Residents are also looking for ways to enhance their living experience, with 72 per cent of renters amenable to paying more for “smart apartment” features. Homelok’s one-portal system elevates the user experience, empowering residents to do more, take some ownership, and audit unit activity.
Access is easy! Residents can use their Apple wallet to operate access doors within the building using an iPhone or Apple watch without having to open up an app. “We are moving the industry forward with cutting-edge technology that allows people to open a door with one tap,” says Grutzmacher. What about Android users? Downloading the app on an Android phone will conveniently afford users all the same features and benefits.
Staying safe and secure
Cybersecurity is on everyone’s minds. In fact, 75 per cent of property managers believe that cybersecurity is a major concern in property management technology. It’s important to know that your system is protected.
Homelok’s cloud security is unsurpassed in the market. Along with cloud security, there is a layer of hardware security with an additional chip, set into all of their locks, adding additional cybersecurity protection. Independent testing, maintaining global standards, and going the extra mile with hardware upgrades, are all steps taken by Salto to prioritize security.
Unlocking the future
The market continues to shift and evolve, and Salto is moving forward with modern solutions to address common multi-family dwelling access challenges. Homelok offers renters and property managers ease of access, peace of mind, and time-saving tools for an exceptional residential experience.
