The Challenge
A leading single-family rental (SFR) company, managing thousands of homes nationwide, sought to replace its traditional shackle-style lockboxes with a keyless entry system for self-guided touring. This decision was driven by the common issue of prospective renters failing to return keys to the lockbox or leaving them inside the property after a tour, which created potential security risks and required significant time for property managers to resolve. The company wanted a flexible, easy-to-install smart lock that didn’t require a smart home hub and was compatible with its existing infrastructure.
The Solution
The smart lock chosen was the Rently Smart Bolt Elite, an all-in-one smart deadbolt custom-built for the rental industry. The Smart Bolt Elite offers both Z-Wave and Bluetooth connectivity, incorporates Kwikset® SmartKey Security® and does not require a smart home hub to manage and control the smart lock.
A significant benefit is the lock’s integration of Kwikset® SmartKey Security® advanced re-key technology. This capability allows property managers to instantly and easily rekey the lock in seconds during tenant turnovers without needing a locksmith, maintaining property security while drastically reducing maintenance expenses, as traditional rekeying typically costs between $75 and $150 per lock.
“Transitioning to Rently’s Smart Bolt Elite locks has vastly simplified the self-guided touring process for prospective residents. Additionally, these locks are highly straightforward to install and, once the property is leased, they provide the enhanced convenience and security that today’s renters expect.”
— Leading SFR Company
The Results
Quick & Easy Installation: Upgrading rentals was faster than anticipated. They reduced their installation time by 40% over other smart locks they’ve used. No need for an electrician or special tools, as everything required is included in the box and available via Rently’s Installer Workflow app.
Enhanced Security & Convenient Rekeying: Eliminating lost or unreturned keys after self-guided tours has significantly improved their rental security. This also removes the typical rekeying expense of $75–$150 per incident. Their staff can now use instant rekeying technology to match all locks to a single key in seconds, which is much quicker and easier.
Future-Proof Hardware Investment: The lock’s versatility is a major benefit, allowing them to deploy smart locks without needing smart hubs immediately. When they do expand to full smart home deployments, they won’t need to purchase new locks.

How it Works
The Smart Bolt Elite is designed to make property management, self-touring, and residency seamless and easy for everyone. Property managers benefit from quick setup and control for vacant unit self-touring. Prospective renters enjoy a keyless, automatic unlock for a smooth self-tour. Residents experience a smarter experience with convenient, multi-option access (app, code, key, fob) and temporary guest codes. Rently Smart Bolt Elite uses bluetooth for immediate keyless functionality, and Z-Wave when you require fully remote control via smart home hub.
Want to learn more about Rently’s Smart Bolt Elite? View more features here!