No Lockbox! Beware!! Audra Lambert 2024

[@mikefults3149]

You often say things that agents don’t approve of. That’s the reason I watch all your videos. Appreciate you sharing your knowledge with everyday consumers.

[@AudraLambert]

You are so welcome! So glad I could assist!! Thanks for watching.

[@audiophileman7047]

Me too...

[@sdcofer52]

Not even two minutes in and you have said it all. The agent should be there.

[@AudraLambert]

Couldn't agree more with you:)

[@BobbieJeanM]

Even without hearing all your excellent reasons not to use a lockbox, my gut instinct is to say heck no I don’t want that thing on my house! Don’t know if it’s paranoia, watching too many news stories or simply good sense. Doesn’t matter, if an agent insists on using one, they aren’t the agent for me. Thank you for sharing so much helpful insight and knowledge about this complex process. 👌👍

[@AudraLambert]

Well, I think you have good instincts. I wouldn't put a lockbox on my house if I was selling it. Just saying. Appreciate your comment...I do agree with you:) Thanks for watching my videos.

[@Reed-2big]

Open houses used to be more lookie loos! Now they seem to actually be serious people. I think the lookie loos are now resorting to just the good pics online, yea! I’ve mention before we had a buyer that presented a pre-approval for a loan, but it was for the property they just bought. My husband was home when they showed up: the buyers were in their 20s and she was quite pregnant. The paperwork gave us enough information to figure out where they were living so the agent could do some research. In the middle of this my mother died which gave the agent an out to send the buyer back to get a specific approval. We did ask whether they were selling the house they were living in, and a bit on whether they were paying cash. It was actually after seeing there was no contingency for the sale of their current home that we started the research and discovered their current home was in new construction and less than a year old. Had we not seen their age we might not have been so concerned which I know isn’t fair as anyone could have money in the family. When we found out the company wasn’t paying for the move was when the agent asked for a better approval. And yes, they pulled the contract. But, that was within 48 hours so it wasn’t off the market. I kinda felt sorry for them as their agent should have caught that there was no way they would qualify for another mortgage! My agent shouldn’t have had to point that out to her either, although it was done with some finesse by blaming us for being stressed and needing better documentation. I just happened to know the company he was moving to and it wasn’t known for being very generous with salaries either! Love all you do for us. And, hopefully you keep even buyers away from weak agents.

[@Starfish2145]

Good luck lady.

[@kristineknoll7841]

I actually had a lock box damage my front door. It had to be sanded and repainted. Not letting one on my house ever again.

[@AudraLambert]

Yes, I meant to add that in my video...that is another issue. Thanks for mentioning that.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Same

[@stevewise1656]

That awful and costly.

[@kathrynbaker5188]

This is one of your best posts ( and they are all great). I completely agree with the No Lockbox plan. If I am hiring you to show my home to strangers, only you or your teammates will have access to my home. Period.

[@valeriewright9250]

Audra, Another great helpful video! I agree with you 💯regarding lock boxes! No way will I agree to that, I get mad when people hang flyers are on my door! 😂 It might be a signal to people that the house is vacant. One significant issue especially here in SoCal is that many of us have swimming pools in the backyard. There is all kinds of iability with people coming onto the property. Another video idea is to address selling pool homes and maybe also selling homes with solar, both leases and paid solar (we have paid solar) Thank you so much for making a video about the issue of dual agency, when I asked your opinion. I have recommended your channel to my neighbors. If/when we sell I will reach out to you for good agents in Temecula. 😊

[@AudraLambert]

Ahh..thanks Valerie. That means the world to me. Very happy to help in anyway I can. I will definitely do a video on swimming pool liability, homes with solar (leases and paid in full) Great idea. Glad you suggested the Dual agency topic. Appreciate your support!!

[@paulineturski1476]

Good points in this video. I absolutely do not like an open house. It brings more nosey neighbors who have no interest in buying. I watched a nearby open house with another neighbor and their friends bring their baby buggies through the house! We have scheduled showings with approval from our listing agent who vets the buyer. We have a lockbox, but honestly, we don't trust anyone! We put a sign on the front door clearly stating they do not have permission to enter without an approved appointment. My last comment is, why people bring kids to a showing is beyond me. We are not the maid to pick up the cookie crumbs and wipe palm prints off the windows.

[@donnabremerman1423]

I am very uncomfortable with the lock box. I'm so glad you are speaking out against these things.

[@AudraLambert]

Hi Donna, I do think its a disservice. I hope it catches on...thanks for commenting.

[@richarddeocio]

Newer agent here. I am finding your content helpful glad I came across your content!

[@PhxDesert9336]

I used to think open houses were a waste of time. But the past year I've been watching a beach market where I own a house. And I've noticed that when a property has been on the market for awhile, having an open house will often lead to it going under contract within a week. So open houses are working there.

[@AudraLambert]

Yes, I agree. Buyers want to go directly to the house without their agent..its more convenient. I am a big fan of open houses for that very reason.

[@terrifiorelli9819]

Realtors hate me for this reason. I will not allow a sign in the yard either. Only prequalified and I mean credit and funds verified. I don’t care if it sells, so there is that. Either you want it or you don’t. Retired from mortgage banking, so should sell my own houses anyway.

[@Joon230]

New subscriber!! I needed this information appx 40 days ago!! This is the second time that I listed my home, with two different agents (who I trusted), paid for the inspections, & still lost out on two properties because my home did not sell before the contracts ended. I no longer trust my judgement and plan to follow your videos!! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise!!

[@audiophileman7047]

I'm with you on the lock box, Audra. It appears to be more to the benefit of the agent than the client. I can remember a time when agents did a lot more for their commission and received less compensation. Technology has made being an agent much much easier, yet the savings in time and cost are often not passed down to the client. I can also remember a time when being an agent was a noble profession and most agents had integrity. So many people have gotten into the real estate "game" for the money, and they spell customer service with a "k". I may take you up on helping us find an agent. I sure wish you could sell our home in Northern California; I'd hire you in a heart beat. I know good people when I see them, and you're real good! 👍👍👍

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...thanks so much for your comment. Really appreciate your kind words. I do agree with you.!!! Happy to find a few agents for you to interview if you need some assistance. Try to interview at least 3:) Appreciate your support of my channel. I really enjoy your remarks. Have a wonderful evening.

[@audiophileman7047]

@@AudraLambert You're welcome and thank you! 👍👍👍

[@Joon230]

I agree with everything you expressed!!

[@snackman2005]

As a buyer I would not like the selling agent lurking around the property while I was with my agent. We have bought three houses over the years. The selling agent has never been on the property while we looked at it.

[@peterwilliams2889]

But you have no problem telling the seller to pay your Agent right?

[@snackman2005]

@@peterwilliams2889 correct I have no problem with that at all. We just sold a house in Florida. And we as the sellers paid ALL closing cost for the buyer including the agents commission. So put that in your pipe and smoke it.

[@peterwilliams2889]

@@snackman2005 Good for you. Would you mind paying my Agent for me?

[@snackman2005]

@@peterwilliams2889 if you were buying our house.

[@Miz-Newsy]

It is literally my agent’s job to be at my property while people are touring my home for sale. My agent WILL be present.

[@AngelinaSkye1695]

I had my agent put a lockbox but I take it off in between showings and only put it on the door right before I leave prior to a showing that I have agreed to ahead of time.

[@deborahpappas7334]

I really appreciate all your great advice for sellers as I am about to sell my own home❤.

[@AudraLambert]

You are so very welcome! So glad I can help!!

[@mindydavis9132]

Hi Audra , many thanks for your very informative information as we are about to embark on listing our home . We truly appreciate your integrity and insight you continue to show display.

[@AudraLambert]

Glad it was helpful! You're going to do great listing your home!!

[@saveourplanet4204]

We used a lock box, BUT only placed key in lock box 5 mins before showing and I stayed in my car parked across the street for my house watching my ho e during showing. We sold privately, this was for showing with buyers agents. Once showing is over, key is removed from lock box.

[@petebusch9069]

In Minnesota we use lock boxes and sometimes 10-15 family members show up at the inspection that have no business being there. I can't keep control of them and they all run through the house messing with everything. If I ask them to leave they won't. When were done I spend a great deal of time putting the house back the way it was and hate it because I feel like we just disrespected someone's home. Most sellers have no idea this happened, if it was my home I would be pissed off. Having the listing agent there would be AWESOME, how do we make this happen in MN?

[@JimenezFernando]

Excellent video !!!! Thank you very much !!!! Have a great night !!!!

[@AudraLambert]

Thank you! You too! Appreciate you watching another one of my videos.

[@florencehendrick4781]

I agree with Mike Fults3149!!!! Yes, Audra Lambert is one of a kind! A realtor with ethics....yep, if only her words of wisdom would catch on like wildfire in this profession....only a matter of time!

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...thanks FLO. That is so nice of you to say!

[@mthelouvre]

Thank you! Thank you! You give such great information!

[@AudraLambert]

You are so welcome! So glad you got some value:)

[@greghernandez9772]

You are definitely the best ❤

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...that makes my day...appreciate it.

[@JKele]

You are soooooo helpful!! Thanks.

[@AudraLambert]

So glad you think so!! Appreciate your sweet comment.

[@EL29376]

As always, great info! What do we do if an agent says he’ll do something for you(show up in every private showing) but doesn’t later? Is that something we can put in the contract with the agent?

[@AudraLambert]

Yes, please do put that in the listing contract that you want someone in the brokerage firm present for all showings. They may or may not agree. If they do agree great. However, if they do agree to it in the listing agreement then stop doing showings, well you can terminate their agreement because they are in breach of the contract. Most agents won't agree to that stipulation in the contract, but it can't hurt to try.

[@alisonbeaty6127]

When I bought a fixer upper I used a lockbox to help manage contractors immediately after buying per my agents suggestion. Within two weeks I caught someone on camera using a prybar to break it open. Nobody should be using a lockbox in a high demand area, especially one that is prone to squatters. When I have to use a lockbox, it is temporarily available in a out-of- sight location in front of my house. Plus cameras running.

[@AudraLambert]

Oh wow...I hate hearing things like this...but I do agree with you. Thanks for the tips...people need to hear this:0

[@imalivinintexas]

Hello and good morning from Texas Ms. Audra 🇨🇱 You’ve surely been blessed with the gift of gab and I’m learning so much from your videos. Would you be able to make a video about how to go about purchasing a home out of state ? 1. Can we use a local realtor in our current state of residence, or do we have to use a realtor in the state where the home is located (do realtors have reciprocity) ? 2. Can the closing take place remotely? 3. Tips / helpful suggestions or best practice ? 4. Risks or hidden caveats that we may not consider or think about? Thank you so very much for helping us non-realtor folks gain a better understanding of the world of real estate. \o/ 🇨🇱

[@AudraLambert]

Hello there! Yes, of course I will do a video on purchasing a home out of state. You've given me inspiration on past videos I created. The agent has to be licensed in the state to represent you. For example, I am only licensed in CA. I can't sell homes in another state unless I get licensed in another state. The best thing you can do to find agents in another state is to do your research. If you want us to screen some agents for you, I'd be happy to assist. Just fill out this link: lambert.homes/referral. It a good idea to interview at least 3 agents. Usually one rises to the top.

[@imalivinintexas]

Thank you Ms. Audra !

[@rootsrocksfeathers1975]

I was an agent in north metro Atlanta/surrounding counties in the days when lockboxes had codes that we needed to write down from the "back room" of the listing. I hated those things because sometimes, they'd malfunction. That was in the mid 90's into the 2000's. I would never do that job in this insane market, but also, I don't like cellphones, never really use one, hate the blasted things. You have a point about the agent being present at showings to represent the house. Personally, knowing what I know, I'd never have lockbox on my own home if we ever listed it. ~Cynthia, N. GA mountains

[@ladikmk]

Audra, when you mentioned your open houses and there are usually only 10-12 "qualified" potential buyers coming through and not the neighbors, are you actually pre-screening who can attend the open house(s)? That was a great video with lots of helpful advice. If someone wanted to use a lockbox on my front door, it would be a hard no for me. That's just an invitation to anyone with bad thoughts, and with squatters running around looking for empty houses to take over could be a potential legal nightmare for someone.

[@AudraLambert]

Hello there!! I am sorry if that was confusing. I screen all my private showing requests. Open houses I do not screen...its really impossible. If you open your house up to the public, you should let them in. However, getting buyers to come to your open houses is very difficult. Most buyers are looking on line. If they don't see what they like online, they won't show up.One of the hardest things to do as a listing agent is to get buyers in the door. Since most of your neighbors can see your house on line, they usually don't show up because they want to avoid the pesky realtor. I think for a lot of people out there who haven't had an open house is several year, their believe there is over 100 people through the open houses. Not the case anymore...at least in my area and my experience. The internet has really slowed the traffic down in our open houses. I do agree, lockbox isn't the way I would do it if I were selling my house. Thanks for your comment and question.

[@lawriefoster5587]

From your friend in Philadelphia...BRAVA BRAVA BRAVA!! Totally agree!

[@AudraLambert]

Thank you Lawrie! Really appreciate your support:). Means a lot to me..BRAVA!!

[@dlemmon1276]

Im selling my half million home. Interveiwed five agents; however, all the them say they will not be there when the buyer and their agent do a showing. They are adamant regarding this. I told them the story of the bathroom. They say they will enter a code and the listing agent will know who, when and for how long they were in the home. They will come by later and check and see if there is any damage, but "too many cooks in the kitchen will kill the sale". What do you think? Wish it could be your way, as it seems safer.

[@allisonaanderson]

I had a realtor show up when I was in the backyard. They decided to start their showing early. They assumed I wasn't home, I didn't know they were in the house, and almost walked in on me in the shower!!! Then they proceeded to look around. Worst experience ever.

[@AudraLambert]

WHAT!! That is just terrible. I am so sorry to hear that. That is an invasion of privacy. UGH. I hate hearing situations like this. Thanks for sharing. People need to hear this.

[@DeaconBeanCooter]

I did too! And I was rather cranky and loud in response to the unwelcomed surprise... There was no appointment at all! No notice, they just saw the listing and then I found them in my back yard!

[@steveadams2888]

Great points

[@AudraLambert]

Ahh...thanks so much. Appreciate your support.

[@steveadams2888]

I am learning a lot

[@mommom3172]

If the lockbox makes it obvious that it is for sale..doesnt a sign in the yard make it obvious? 🤔

[@AudraLambert]

Great question...yes it does...but the for sale sign can't open the door....a lockbox can. Some lockboxes can be picked open...and any agent with a Supra key can open the lockbox and walk in without notice. To be fair, anytime you put your house on MLS, everyone knows your house is for sale. Lockboxes give access...not in love with that.

[@albertcastle5849]

Great video Audra

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...thanks so much. Appreciate it!!

[@Ruby-if4jf]

Agreed! Your info is invaluable. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@AudraLambert]

Glad you think so! Appreciate it!!

[@ChrissyCAGirl]

You should mention in the video that you get a referral fee when recommending an agent to someone.

[@AudraLambert]

Actually, I do on the referral video I created. Happy to send it to you if you're interested. Our fee is below the market norm...and we don't charge the agents a subscription or a start up fee. So far I am $15,000 in the whole for hiring the people to assist my with the referral program. I am not getting rich on the referral program...just trying to help consumers find good agents. I am not getting rich on my KZbin channel either...just trying to help other out. I really feel there is a need out there. There isn't anyone I know who is going to the lengths that we are to provide agent to agent referrals. The money I make on the referrals go back into the business to pay for program.

[@tacobannana6628]

your channel is beyond awesome, hopefully you can get some sponsorships soon to help out a bit. editing takes forever ugh thanks for all you do😅​@@AudraLambert

[@Sonia-h1h]

VERY WISELY WORDS THANKS FOR THE TIPS

[@jessicaLArealestate]

Totally agree. I am personal showing my listing in LA.

[@AudraLambert]

Well, better than the lockbox:). I hate lockbox for sellers.

[@Truth-lover-il6xy]

Hi Audra, I enjoy listening to your videos about selling or buying a house. But what is your advice if I want to sell a block of land?

[@doughenderson4345]

Do you insist potential buyers be pre-approved even with open-houses ??

[@PukeyMcDork]

Keep in mind she is mainly referring to Jumbo houses in an affluent area (for most of you, that is not in the US, go look up where OC is). For houses that are selling for $200k i would think a plain old lock box is fine. If you're selling your house there should be no valuables in it - zero - anyway

[@ExploreEmbraceExpress]

Off topic a little, but Q: Should I register my land survey with the department of deeds?

[@ExploreEmbraceExpress]

Also ty for being so generous with your advice! ❤

[@mindfullymellow2323]

Late comment - but those basic lockboxes can be SO easily picked open. Seen one opened within seconds without knowing the code. Would never approve of using one for my house.

[@johnhaller5851]

Ah, the Master Lock lockbox. The Lock Picking Lawyer KZbin channel shows how easy it is to open that Master Lock. While most door locks are relatively easy to pick, a lock box is a bold sign that no one may be home, while it's risky to pick a lock if someone is home

[@AudraLambert]

Thanks John for the info...that's good info. I really think the lockbox has a lot of safety and security risks involved. Appreciate your comment.

[@Days2222]

1- I think Cons look up on line, for houses that are for sale , I don’t think it is the lockbox , 2- walk around looking for houses that appear vacant not the lock box 3- for sale sign, not the lock box…. As long as there’s an agent present selling or listing agent , just remind the buyer agent to follow rules , example not using the restrooms closing fridge , etc. or lockbox and indoor cameras 👌🏼

[@Reed-2big]

We used a standard box, but just for the contractor, yes singular, that was doing major work on the house. Otherwise I agree. Btw, this house was on a dead end with little traffic.

[@AudraLambert]

Yes, that sounds reasonable. Its different when buyers and agents going directly to a house with out anyone overseeing the showings.

[@Reed-2big]

@@AudraLambert years back, I had a box on the house, but it was one that went over the door so no one could enter when I was there! Still didn’t like it but it was short lived.

[@Chirita008]

Hi Audra! I totally agree with the lockbox issue, especially since I will be continuing to live in my home during the selling process. However, isn't having an Open House contradictory to the requirement of the buyers having to be pre-qualified in order to see the property? Opens houses are prime opportunities for those looky-loos that you DON'T want traipsing through your home. I've spoken to a potential realtor about the lockbox issue, and she says it can be done, but I could tell she wasn't fond of it, as it's difficult to be in multiple places at the same time. I like this realtor as I feel she gets me (outside the lockbox issue). So, I'm torn with this issue and wonder if I need to keep looking. I don't know what commissions are in CA, but I live in SC and the commissions are either 2.5 or 3% and I have not heard of anyone reducing their commission if they use lockboxes. I truly appreciate all the information you provide to us consumers who find this whole real estate thing very challenging. TIA

[@AudraLambert]

Hello there! Sorry that was confusing. I don't pre-qualify buyer/visitors at my open houses...only private showings. Open houses are open to the public..its very difficult to qualify visitors at an open house. Most of my open houses only have 10-12 people through the house. The traffic is much more reduced now that we have the internet. Most your neighbors and looky lous can view your home online. Usually only the serious buyers are checking out the home (at least this is my experience in my area). One of the harder jobs as listing agents is getting buyers to come visit the home, a well run open house is a good way to do this. Where I live it is very competitive...I haven't seen a 3% commission is years. You can always ask if they would reduce their commission...can't hurt. So glad you are getting value out of my videos...glad to know I am helping others. Have a lovely rest of your evening and thanks for watching my videos.

[@diana6842]

Another reason I don't want a lockbox when we sell - we have a rescue dog who is very rude to strangers. When my house is shown, my dog (and all her belongings) will be in the car with me across town. If a lockbox is on my door, I'd be worried some rando realtor would just stop and pop in unannounced while I'm out grocery shopping and the doggie is here alone. That wouldn't be a pleasant experience.

[@AudraLambert]

Totally agree. I do not like the lockbox for that very reason. My dog is a bit rude to strangers too. lol.

[@stevewise1656]

Agreed! We made sure our agent agreement included the agent would be present for all showings. Not being there is lazy. So many agents are incredibly unprofessional and want to do as little as possible. In fact, in the presence of our agent, some moron thought it was a great idea to find out if the ice maker was working. So, this idiot held the ice dispenser on the door, all the while letting ice fall all over our hard wood floors. Like he apparently held it for a long time and tons of ice was all over the floor. The agent told him to stop. The guy didn't even pick it up and walked away. Lastly, a buyers agent was apparently wearing stilettos and made dents all over our hardwood floors.

[@florencehendrick4781]

Yes, if you can find an agent, in my area...please tell me, because this is Florida after all....

[@AudraLambert]

Hi Flo, yes, we got your request. We are working on it. We will be in touch shortly.

[@CVMGAM]

why ? you're going to be there every time there is a visit ?

[@blancajrodriguez]

I love your videos!! I’m a new agent! Do you happen to coach agents?? ❤

[@mommom3172]

Do you have buyer agents submit their client's pre-approval and proof of funds prior to approving showings?

[@AudraLambert]

In most instances yes. If I am already showing a property and an agent asks if they can show the property during the window of time I am already there, I may just ask for details of their buyer.

[@amanacatandhisdog8836]

The sellers agent used one and left it on long after the sale. After about two weeks I complained to my realtor. She had to call to get the lock removed.

[@amanacatandhisdog8836]

After the sale I had concerns about people still thinking the home was for sale or vacant and problems that go with a vacant home.

[@mcds54]

Our super lockbox is locked on our utility piping on the side of the house. No problems so far....

[@AudraLambert]

Just be careful and alter. Just trying to protect consumers out there. Its about avoiding bad situations...not encouraging bad behavior. Glad no problems...so far.

[@miketheyunggod2534]

My house was completely empty along with everything turned off so I just left the backdoor unlocked.

[@AudraLambert]

Hello there...I am no in love with leaving any door unlocked. In most states they people have squatter rights. Beware!

[@anitah2404]

I saw a home for sale in my area where people stole the kitchen cabinets and appliances from there.

[@jkwjcw3ify]

You are Absolutely right! On every point. Except swearing to buda, really?

[@AudraLambert]

Oh...good point!

[@peterwilliams2889]

You’re the only one that I’ve heard say that the Listing Agent should be at every showing. They’re being paid to be there.

[@Barbara-te7xz]

Does the lock picking lawyer have a tutorial on how to pick this yet?

[@AudraLambert]

There will be a KZbin video on that soon...LOL.

[@doreenpettit6553]

Oh my gosh Audra! You don't know what I have gone through with my agent concerning this very thing. No exageration, I admonished her "No lockbox" over 20 times and still she says, she will pick up a key to put in a lockbox.

[@AudraLambert]

Oh, I am so sorry. I hate to hear this!! Call their broker is they don't get it...Ugh. Have a great day!

[@laneo]

Can I insist my buyers agent or their team Only show the house?

[@AudraLambert]

Sure...I would! They may say no...but can't hurt to try.

[@afridgetoofar1818]

@@AudraLambertand if they say _no,_ what should I as the seller do next?

[@smilinjoe23]

This? Especially with squatters taking over ...

[@AudraLambert]

Couldn't agree more with you:)

[@pinkorganichorse]

Are you with Kellar Williams?

[@AudraLambert]

No, I am with Realty One Group West:). I have my own team...my team is called Lambert Group Homes.

[@thomascabral8443]

no lock box they do not pick them up we never knew who showed up not many left cards plus feedback none or little nonono

[@florencehendrick4781]

I wrote an excellent review that was written on day one, and then I learned that my review should not have been written, and the guy refuses to take the review off his site....he wrote something in on the contract after we signed it.....yep, a real "Christian" guy....he told me so....BEWARE Florida is like the swirl at the bottom of the toilet....

[@AudraLambert]

Oh Florence, that is just terrible. You could contact his broker to see if they would assist in the manner. Truly unbelievable.

[@Starfish2145]

Do you seriously think a Listing agent needs to be there for every appointment?? 😂😂😂😂

[@AudraLambert]

Seriously..YES:).

[@mcds54]

No, but maybe at a 2nd showing with serious buyers?

[@Starfish2145]

There are no cons

[@AudraLambert]

You must be a lockbox user..lol. Read the comments below...I promise there are cons to the lockbox.