• DisplayKEY Brochure

Edmonton, January 30, 2008: The REALTORS® Association of Edmonton is the first real estate board in Canada to introduce new lock box technology from GE Security. The updated lock box and ActiveKEY are a convenience for REALTORS® and provide many security features to protect client’s homes and property.

When a REALTOR® lists a home or other property for sale they place a key for the property in a blue lock box which is attached to a door handle or secure fixture close to the front door. The lock box is a mini-safe that is numbered and registered to a particular REALTOR®. There are about 8000 lock boxes registered in the Edmonton area. Other REALTORS® can use their ActiveKEY to open the lock box so that they can show the property to potential buyers.

The ActiveKEY is a wireless lock box key designed specifically for real estate professionals. After entering a password into the ActiveKEY, a REALTOR® points their ActiveKEY at the lock box which  slides open to release the door key. Using cell phone technology, the ActiveKEY immediately sends a message to the lock box registered owner to advise them that their listed property is being shown. The lock box owner can later check the computer to find out who opened their lock box.

The notification feature ensures that the listing REALTOR® is fully aware of all entry and exit activity at the properties they list. Homeowners can then get immediate or daily reports of showing activity. Other features of the ActiveKEY also appeal to REALTORS®. A built-in flashlight and backlit keypad make evening showings more convenient. The ActiveKEY can also display listing details and features of the property as the lock box is being opened.

Homeowners will take comfort in the fact that ActiveKEYs are only available to REALTORS® and if it  is ever lost or stolen it can be deactivated remotely so that it cannot be used to open lock boxes.

The lock boxes were updated in late 2007 and the new ActiveKEYS are now being distributed. GE Security will roll the ActiveKEYS out to other real estate boards over the next year. For additional information or a demonstration, contact the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton.

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The REALTORS® Association of Edmonton (Edmonton Real Estate Board), founded in 1927, is a professional association of 3,241 Brokers and Associates in the greater Edmonton area. The Association administers the Multiple Listing Service®, provides professional education to its members and enforces a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice. The Association also advertises property listings and publishes consumer information on the Internet at mls.ca and ereb.com, as well as in the Real Estate Weekly and on their web site at rewedmonton.ca. The Association supports charities involving shelter and the homeless through the REALTORS® Community Foundation.

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