Lockbox FAQ & Resources

Determining the Lockbox Provider for MAR and SPAAR

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.

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.

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.

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. 

Will this impact my Showingtime Service? 

No, Showingtime will still be available and has access to the SentriLock system.

How long will my Supra box work? 

Supra service will continue for MAR and SPAAR members through the end of November 2026. 

[For secondary members with cooperating Supra keys] 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.

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. 

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. 

I can’t attend the event; Can my friend/colleague/assistant exchange for me? 

Only you 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. 

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. 

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 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.

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 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.

 

Additional questions? Please contact:
MAR Member Services: 952-933-9020, info@mplsrealtor.com
SPAAR: Member Services: 651-776-6000, SPAAR@SPAAR.com

 

Helpful terminology from our new partners at SentriLock: 

• SentriGuard® lockbox is 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.