Why do I need a smart lock?
A: Smart locks simplify property management by allowing you to manage access to your guests remotely, all within AdvanceCM. They eliminate the need for physical key exchanges, provide automated access tied to bookings, and save tons of time coordinating guest or staff access. They also enhance security with features like audit trails and temporary access codes that will expire automatically after use.
What value does it bring over my physical one?
A: Unlike physical locks, smart locks allow you to grant or revoke access instantly, reduce the risk of lost or duplicated keys, and track who enters and exits the property. This saves you a ton of time not doing key handoffs, provides a seamless experience for guests and reduces operational headaches for property managers.
What brands does AdvanceCM support?
A: AdvanceCM supports popular smart lock brands such as Yale, August, Schlage, Nuki, Igloohome and more. If you have a specific model that we don’t support, please let us know and we can follow-up on the feasibility of providing future support. Support devices list can be found here
Is this all within AdvanceCM or do I need to go somewhere else?
A: Everything is managed directly within the AdvanceCM platform. You can generate access codes, monitor your lock status, and monitor access activity without leaving the AdvanceCM Dashboard.
Can locks get hacked?
A: Smart locks are designed with advanced encryption to ensure that your data and access credentials are secure. While no system is ever 100% immune, leading smart lock manufacturers prioritize security and continuously update their firmware to address vulnerabilities.
How reliable are these locks? Do they ever go down?
A: Smart locks are highly reliable and work consistently regardless of circumstances(i.e. poor weather conditions). Locks connected to AdvanceCM (via Seam) usually have an uptime of 99.999%.
Can codes fall into the wrong hands?
A: Temporary and unique access codes minimize this risk. Codes can be tied directly to reservations and expire automatically after checkout. If a code is ever suspected to be compromised, it can be revoked instantly from the dashboard.
How do I connect a Smart Device to AdvanceCM?
A: Please refer to the Smart Devices help article here
What Smart Devices brands can I connect?
A: Any brand available through the AdvanceCM<> Seam connection. For Smart Locks, this will be August, Schlage, SmartThings, Yale, Nuki, SaltoKS, Kwikset, TTLock, 33Lock, Igloohome, Lockly, Wyze and Tedee.
Can I assign different codes for each guest?
A: Yes. You can create multiple codes for the same bookings.
How far in AdvanceCM can I generate codes?
A: Codes can be generated for any confirmed booking in the future
Can I set specific timeframes for the code to be active?
A: Yes, the activation date will set the specific timeframe.
Is it possible to monitor the code usage?
A: Yes. There is a log section for each code. Users can monitor the usage.
What happens if a guest loses the code?
A: Property Managers can instantly revoke the lost code, generate a new code or resend the guest the current code.
Can I set default code settings for all properties in AdvanceCM?
A: General Settings will be applied on all Properties.
Can Smart devices be used for staff and cleaners internally?
A: Yes. Property Managers can generate the code and send it to them manually,
Can I revoke access code access instantly through AdvanceCM
A: Yes. You can delete the code and it will no longer exist or be able to be used on the smart lock.
Can a user connect multiple smart devices in AdvanceCM?
A: Yes, the user can connect multiple smart devices.
Is it a paid or Free feature?
A: It’s a Paid feature.
If it's paid then how does the subscription process work?
A: Users have to subscribe with a payment method and sign a terms of service agreement. Once completed, they will then be prompted to connect their devices.
Do you provide Smart devices access to users on trial?
A: No, Smart devices are not accessible for trial users. They have to subscribe to access it.
Can we customize generated codes before sharing with guests?
A: Yes. Users can customize multiple settings in the General Settings section.
If a code expires for a guest then can I reactivate it as a property manager?
A: No, once a code has reached its end date, the code will be automatically deleted in ACM. You will have to create a new code for your guest.
How will a property manager know if the device is not working or the battery is low?
A: A PM can turn on “Host Notifications” in the General Settings section to be notified. There are notifications for low battery status, codes first being used, and issues on the device that require attention.
What if the device is not working and the guest checks in and they do not get the code? How will they get inside the property?
A: The user has to contact the Property Manager.
If I disconnect my device from AdvanceCM then what will happen to codes which are already sent to guests?
A: Those codes will no longer be usable, as the device’s connection to AdvanceCM no longer exists.
How will it work if my property has multiple doors and each door is linked to a different device?
A: Each device will have its own code.
What is the difference between General Settings and Devices Setup screens?
A: The General Settings section helps Property Managers to turn on/off the notifications, set the default code activation/inactivation time etc. Device Setup shows which accounts are connected in ACM.
Is there any limit to connect a specific number of devices only for each AdvanceCM Account?
A: The user can connect as many smart devices as they wish. There is no limit.
If a user has 1 device then how much he will be charged on a monthly basis per device?
A: It’s a Paid feature with pricing as follows:
1-20 rentals: $8 per month per device
21-50 rentals: $7 per month per device
51-100 rentals: $6 per month per device
101-200 rentals: $5 per month per device
201-500 rentals: $4 per month per device
500+ rentals: $3 per month per device
Are there any yearly subscription plans for Smart Devices?
A: No, there is no yearly plan available at this moment.
How does a subscription plan work for Smart devices?
A: It works on a monthly basis, you will be charged monthly on the same date that you subscribed for the feature.
Can Property Manager generate a device code without linking to any rental?
A: No, Property Managers cannot generate a device code without linking to any rental.
Can Property Manager generate device code without linking to any Inquiry?
A: Yes, Property Manager can generate a device code without linking to an Inquiry.
Can we connect to Smart devices without signing the Smart devices agreement?
A: No, you cannot connect without signing the agreement.
What is the default code length?
A: Default code length will be 4 digits but users can customize it under the General Settings screen using the Code length drop down.
How much does Smart locks devices cost?
A: The cost depends on the smart lock brand and model you choose. Most locks range between $150 and $300 upfront. For locks that do not have built-in WiFi capability, you will also need to buy an associated bridge (i.e. Samsung Smartthings Hub, Igloohome Bridge) to connect it to the internet.
Q: How can I get one Smart lock device if I don’t have one?
A: You can purchase smart locks directly from manufacturers or retailers like Amazon. We recommend brands that are compatible with AdvanceCM, and our team can provide guidance on which ones to select.
As always, please contact us with questions any time. We're happy to help.