Electronic lockboxes are a critical tool for agents to deliver a more professional, secure, and seamless experience for everyone involved.
After thorough, member-informed evaluation process, Minneapolis Area Realtors® (MAR) and the Saint Paul Area Association of Realtors® (SPAAR) are excited to share that our boards of directors selected SentriLock as our new electronic lockbox provider. This decision reflects the feedback collected from hundreds of members over a monthslong vetting process, and we’re grateful to all who participated to help us come to this decision.
SPAAR and MAR will be jointly hosting the SentriLock lockbox exchange in November. There will be six days, and each member should expect the exchange to take about 45 minutes.
*** Note: registration is required for the lockbox exchange events. Members will receive emails from noreply@sentrilock.com to activate a SentriLock account AND another to register for the lockbox exchange events. Watch your inboxes for these emails.
The lockbox exchange locations, dates and times are as follows:
The November 16-19 lockbox exchange sessions will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at 2020 American Boulevard East, Bloomington, MN 55425
- November 16 from 9am to 5pm; the last training session will begin at 4pm.
- November 17 from 9am to 5pm; the last training session will begin at 4pm.
- November 18 from 9am to 8pm. There will be an open-house-style event from 6-8pm. There is no need to register for the open house, just stop by and exchange boxes during this time; optional training at 7pm.
- November 19 from 9am to 5pm; the last training session will begin at 4pm.
The Friday, November 20, lockbox exchange session will take place at the Mounds View Event Center at 5394 Edgewood Drive, Mounds View, MN 55112
- November 20 from 10am to 5pm; the last training session will begin at 4pm.
The Saturday, November 21, lockbox exchange session will take place at the Braham Event Center at 655 8th St SW, Braham, MN 55006
- November 21 from 10am to 5pm; the last training session will begin at 4pm.
This important technology change to SentriLock will affect all agents who use electronic lockboxes throughout the greater Twin Cities region. Current Supra services will continue uninterrupted until the transition.
Lockbox Conversion: What to Know
The lockbox exchange process is scheduled for November 2026. Current Supra users should plan to attend an exchange event (~45 min) during the exchange window to trade in their Supra lockboxes 1:1, free of charge (latest generation boxes only). Non-users are welcome to attend, learn more and register for service at the event.
This important technology change will affect all agents who use electronic lockboxes throughout the greater Twin Cities region. Current Supra services will continue uninterrupted until the transition.
Agents should take these steps to prepare:
- Log into your Supra Web portal and review your lockbox inventory. Only boxes assigned to you are eligible for exchange.
- If you have any lockboxes missing in your inventory/not assigned to you, you must submit a lockbox transfer form with signature from the previous assigned user. This must be completed prior to the event so your inventory is up-to-date at time of exchange.
- Sign up for an exchange event time slot (coming soon!)If you cannot attend a conversion event, please reach out to spaar@spaar.com or call (651) 776-6000 so we can help you make other arrangements.
About This Decision
For many years, MAR and SPAAR have offered Supra lockboxes in our marketplace—a shared contract which is coming to an end in 2026.
Inevitable Tech Transition:
Our goal is never to disrupt your business unnecessarily. Supra will be updating their system in the near future, which means that regardless of vendor selection, members would experience a technology transition.
Thorough Evaluation:
Together, MAR and SPAAR conducted a thorough evaluation process of both Supra and SentriLock, which also included member feedback. Factors included physical functionality, access options, pricing, customer service, and much more.
Reflects Member Preference:
As part of our evaluation, nearly 300 agents and brokers joined our product demonstrations and webinars, saw the lockboxes side by side, and provided their feedback. 59% said SentriLock was their preferred selection.
The Realtor® voice was an important piece of this process.
Electronic Lockboxes
Electronic lockboxes offer agents (and home sellers!) greater security and accountability by ensuring only verified professionals can access the home, with automatic tracking of who entered and when.
The lockboxes also provide more convenience and flexibility, enabling remote access and smoother scheduling, which can lead to more showings. Working with the right electronic lockbox provider directly impacts this critical piece of the homebuying and selling experience for all parties involved.
Why SentriLock?
FAQ: Determining the Lockbox Provider
Why did you choose SentriLock? And who made the choice?
MAR and SPAAR have collaborated for years to operate a single lockbox system for the greater Twin Cities region in the best interests of our collective 17,000 members and the consumers they serve.
MAR and SPAAR conducted a thorough evaluation process to explore the right lockbox provider for our region. This 7-month process included product demonstrations, webinars, task force research and review, broker engagement and member feedback.
The member-led Boards of MAR and SPAAR selected SentriLock as our next electronic lockbox partner, reflecting the feedback we saw from members (59% preferred SentriLock). SentriLock provides exceptional security, flexible access giving you more choice and control, and unmatched customer service.
Why do I have to go through a lockbox conversion? Couldn’t we keep our old provider?
With our shared contract with Supra coming to an end, we needed to take the opportunity to evaluate the options for our region. And importantly: Supra will be updating their technology in the near future, which means that a technology conversion would have been ultimately inevitable either way.
Sentrilock will exchange Supra lockboxes 1:1 free of charge if they are assigned to you in your Supra Web portal.
FAQ: SentriLock Features
How does this switch to SentriLock benefit me?
SentriLock provides significant benefits that include:
Simple:
- NFC Touch-n-Show® access in two sections (the reliable technology used for contactless payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay)
- Flexible options for one-time access for non-keyholders that include secure, individualized access through SentriConnect andFlexCodes for unique situations
- Homeowner Shackle Release
Safe:
- Secure audit trails and alerts
- Bank-grade encryption
- Agent Safety Features
- Unmatched support and service
Reliable:
- 100% US Based Support: 7 days/week, 8 am-midnight
- Built to last and weatherproof
- Military-grade, user-replaceable battery, plus a built-in backup battery
- Larger, attached key bin to avoid jams or misplaced key bins
What will the new SentriLock boxes and key service cost?
Pricing was a key factor in evaluating these vendors and terms, and is reflected in the decision to move to SentriLock.
Current lockboxes registered to MAR and SPAAR members can be exchanged for new SentriLock boxes free of charge at the conversion event alongside activation of your SentriLock service. As long as you’re paying for the monthly SentriLock service the box is yours to use.
SentriLock boxes will also be available for purchase through the Associations as you experienced in the past with Supra boxes. Pricing will be determined by your association. Pricing coming soon.
Which nearby markets use Sentrilock?
Currently West Central Association of Realtors and Greater Lakes Association of Realtors both use SentriLock.
Can I still provide key access to inspectors, photographers, or contractors?
Yes! You control access with ease. Easily grant time-specific access through the SentriConnect app (preferred and most secure option) or FlexCodes that provide revocable temporary access to anyone authorized.
Will I need to change my mobile app?
Yes, you will follow the link provided in the emails from SentriLock to download the SentriKey® Real Estate App.
FAQ: Ongoing Service
How does my subscription for the box and service work?
Similar to the contract with Supra, SentriLock boxes are leased. When you purchase a lockbox from the Association you are paying an upfront cost associated with the lease, in addition to the monthly service fee. Much like an internet service provider, you’ll need to turn your hardware back in unless you’re paying to access the service.
Will this impact my Showingtime Service?
No, Showingtime will still be available and has access to the SentriLock system.
Will my Supra key still work?
Cooperating Supra keys will no longer work as we are switching vendors to SentriLock. You will want to keep your Supra key with the association you purchased it through and set up a new account for SentriLock lockbox access with MAR or SPAAR if you choose to access this service.
[For secondary members with cooperating Supra keys]
Can I keep my Supra lockbox and service instead?
No. Your Supra services were available through the contract offered via MAR and SPAAR. That contract will end, and the regional lockbox option provided through the Associations will be SentriLock. If other areas you work in still use Supra, you may request one-time access from the listing agent.
How long will my Supra box work?
Supra service will continue for MAR and SPAAR members through the end of November 2026.
FAQ: SentriLock Conversion Prep & Events
How do I activate my SentriLock Account?
Watch your inbox for an activation email from SentriLock. Activation emails are sent a few times a week until service is activated.
I can’t attend the event; Can my friend/colleague/assistant exchange for me?
Only you, your broker or your registered Unlicensed Assistant* can trade in your Supra box for new SentriLock boxes. If you cannot attend the conversion event you should make different arrangements with your local association.
*The Unlicensed Assistant needs to be registered with MAR or SPAAR with you as their supervising agent. Unsure of your assistant’s status? Reach out to your Association to confirm.
I have Lockboxes from another association. Can I exchange them?
No. Lockboxes from another association cannot be imported to the MAR or SPAAR system and cannot be exchanged. All Lockboxes you wish to exchange must be registered to MAR or SPAAR.
What should I expect at the conversion event?
Check in your lockboxes with SentriLock Staff. While your new boxes are being programmed you will enter a large ballroom for basic training on the new SentriLock tools. You will then pickup your newly programmed boxes and be on your way.
Plan 30-45 minutes to attend the exchange in-person to convert your new boxes and train.
MAR and SPAAR staff will be available on-site to help navigate any unanticipated issues and ensure an excellent experience.
What happens after I activate my account?
Once your account is activated, you will stop receiving reminder emails and can begin setting up and using the SentriLock system.
What if I’m an eKey user, but don’t have any boxes registered to my name (e.g. buyer’s agent or Affiliate)? Should I still come to the “event” or do I get signed up another way?
Yes! If you are a Key user with no lockboxes you should come for the training portion of the event. You will have received a link to download the app and get started with the system. Sign up for a slot to benefit from the live, hands-on training.
What should I do to prepare for the exchange?
Log into Supra Web and review your lockbox inventory. If you find any lockboxes not assigned to you, you must use the <lockbox transfer form> with signature from the previous assigned user sent to MAR/SPAAR prior to the event to be sure your inventory is up to date. Only lockboxes assigned to you may be exchanged for SentriLock lockboxes during our conversion.
You will receive an email directly from SentriLock to activate your account and register for a time during the event. If you didn’t, search your inbox for notice@sentrilock.com. You must activate your SentriLock account prior to the exchange. Follow the instructions provided in the email.
Note: SupraNet has the most accurate list of lockbox inventory for each member, and the Association staff can access this information. SPAAR will be sending the SupraNet lists to individual members the weeks of October 5, October 19 and October 26 as a reference.
Feel free to contact the Association with any questions or to request information or a copy of the list.
What if I cannot make my scheduled appointment time?
Please reschedule for another time during the conversion event. You will receive the most thorough and timely support during the conversion event, including hands-on training.
FAQ: Lockbox Usage and Property
Will I own the SentriLock boxes provided to me at the lockbox exchange?
No. The SentriLock boxes are being leased from SentriLock to the associations, and the associations are providing these leased boxes on a rental basis to its users and members.
As a current Supra user, simply bring the Supra boxes that are registered to you, and SPAAR or MAR will supply you with the same number of brand new SentriLock boxes in return. You will have continued use of the new lockboxes for as long as you pay your monthly subscription for the SentriLock service.
How does leasing the SentriLock boxes compare to my Supra boxes?
Under the Supra agreement that exists today, the boxes are leased to each keyholder per your keyholder lease. When the Supra contract ends on December 16, 2026, any boxes you’ve leased become the property of the associations per the Supra Keyholder agreement that each keyholder signed prior to accessing Supra services.
The vast majority of Supra boxes held by SPAAR and MAR members, including any boxes you’ve previously received at a lockbox exchange, are leased in this way. Similar to the current Supra agreement, the SentriLock boxes will be leased.
I thought I owned my Supra boxes. I feel like I’m losing something in this new exchange.
The majority of all Supra lockboxes are leased to SPAAR and MAR members and users. Additionally, the Supra boxes that are currently assigned are nearly a decade old. Supra will be transitioning its users to a new, next generation of boxes in the near future so, even if you have newer boxes, all Supra boxes will have minimal to no value once that transition takes place.
When I exchange my Supra boxes for SentriLock boxes, do I pay one monthly service fee, or do I pay the monthly service fee for each box?
SPAAR and MAR members and users will pay one monthly service fee, regardless of the number of boxes each member is exchanging.
Am I able to transfer my SentriLock box to another agent or user?
Yes! Much like with your leased Supra lockbox options, you may transfer your SentriLock box to another agent or user. To track the transfer, it is required that anyone who chooses to do so fill out a transfer form, which will be available following the SentriLock exchange events. This officially tracked information will ensure you’re no longer liable for the lockbox.
SPAAR Lockbox Fee
The monthly key fee through SPAAR is $10.92 (tax included).
Additional questions? Contact:
SPAAR at spaar@spaar.com or (651) 776-6000.
MAR at info@mplsrealtor.com or (952) 993-9020
Thank you!
Helpful terminology from our new partners at SentriLock:
SentriGuard® lockbox: A highly secure, electronic real estate lockbox manufactured by SentriLock, the official solution for the National Association of Realtors®.
SentriKey Real Estate: The primary app for agents to manage lockboxes, generate one-day codes, release shackles, and view property data and access logs.
SentriConnect: A free managed access app that allows lockbox owners (or listing agents) to grant temporary, time-limited access to third parties (like inspectors or contractors).
SentriKey ClientConnect: A companion app that acts as a central hub for homeowners and clients to manage showing appointments, view feedback, and receive notifications.
FlexCodes®: A trackable, time-specific access code you can provide to a contractor, painter, or other third-party person who needs temporary access to a listing.