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In the fast-evolving world of commercial real estate, balancing high-end architectural design with lean operational reality is the ultimate balancing act. On a recent episode of the Access Control Podcast, host Josh Hannum sat down with Brett West—Senior Director of Real Estate Development at Assurity Insurance and founder of West Development—to peel back the layers on how modern developers think about technology, operations, and the physical spaces they build.
With a unique background that spans from practicing architect to commercial developer and property manager, Brett offers a holistic view of where the rubber meets the road in multifamily real estate. Here are the key takeaways from their conversation on maximizing net operating income (NOI), winning the "amenity war," and why access control is shifting from a security afterthought to a major financial driver. 1. Design First, but Make the Numbers Follow For Brett, development always starts with the physical structure and neighborhood context. However, the modern market demands that design and financial proformas walk hand-in-hand. "I'm always going to be a designer first, but I really do enjoy having the two or three screens up where you're looking at the numbers, running the numbers, tweaking the plan simultaneously." — Brett West When building or renovating a property, the physical touchpoints dictate the perceived quality. Developers are shifting budgets away from institutional finishes and focusing dollars on what tenants interact with every single day—like entry sequences, high-quality hardware, and unit fixtures. 2. Winning the "Tour" with Unique Amenities We are living in an era of hyper-competition for Class A apartment rentals. While core physical spaces remain highly similar across competing developments, winning a future resident over comes down to creating a memorable moment during the property tour.
3. Combating Staffing Shortages with Property Management AI One of the most profound shifts in modern multifamily operations is the labor crunch. Historically, property management relied on a strict staffing ratio: approximately one leasing agent per 100 units. Today, finding and retaining high-quality management talent is incredibly difficult. The solution? Drastically leveraging technology to scale staff impact. By integrating AI chatbots, automated texting, and sophisticated leasing software to handle initial inquiries and phone calls, developers are aiming to scale a single leasing professional across up to 800 units across scattered-site portfolios. Tenants routinely research, view, and verify properties entirely online, arriving at the physical space merely to sign. Operations must pivot to support this autonomous, frictionless consumer journey. 4. Smart Access Control: The Frictionless Frontier Staffing limitations have completely altered day-to-day maintenance and leasing workflows. Property managers can no longer afford to manually hand physical keys to a new tenant on a Sunday afternoon. Seamless Remote Credentialing With smart access control, property managers can securely text a digital credential to a resident moving in over the weekend. The resident lets themselves in, handles their move-in autonomously, and the management team follows up on Monday morning with a personal touch, like a gift card to a local business. The Tenant Experience ROI The cost delta between installing a traditional "dumb" lock and a smart, connected lock is minimal compared to the long-term operational payoff. Tenant retention hinges heavily on minimizing daily friction. Clunky entry sequences, constant lockouts, or requiring residents to juggle 17 different smartphone apps to navigate their building creates immediate tenant frustration and vacancy risk. Features like remote guest access, letting in dog walkers, or seamlessly unlocking an entry via a phone add measurable value that moves the needle on stabilizing a property during lease-up. 5. The Death of the Master Key: Risk & Insurance Liabilities While proptech optimizes the front-end tenant experience, it is also solving a massive, hidden liability on the back-end: the master key system. Traditional Master Key Lost = Absolute Operational Nightmare (Total building re-key required) Smart Access Control Glitch = Immediate Remote Digital Reboot/Revocation In mid-sized and major markets across the Midwest, insurance companies writing builder's risk and operational property insurance are beginning to tighten regulations. In cities like Kansas City and Des Moines, many insurance carriers are actively forcing communities to completely eliminate traditional physical master key programs to keep insurance premiums stable. Losing a physical master key introduces an immediate, catastrophic security risk to a 250-unit asset. If a key goes missing, a property manager faces massive costs to physically replace every cylinder in the building. Smart access control mitigates this entirely, offering full visibility into who accessed what space and when, with the ability to instantly revoke credentials remotely. The Verdict: Long-Term Infrastructure Wins Whether managing high-end Class A properties or executing value-add plays on Class B and C affordable housing, retrofitting infrastructure later is an expensive nightmare. Spending thousands of dollars per door down the road to install whole-building Wi-Fi or changing failing hardware cuts directly into an asset's ultimate valuation. The future belongs to operators who build timeless, reliable, and integrated hardware and software ecosystems from day one—protecting the tenant experience, optimizing lean staff, and ultimately defending the bottom line. What proptech solutions have moved the needle most for your net operating income this year? Let us know in the comments below, or subscribe to the Asset Control Podcast for more insider developer insights! <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ah-Kb6PoRNQ?si=l9UuAMUzm5lpWyG7" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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The Bottom Line Up Front: In this episode of Asset Control, host Joshuwa Hannum sits down with Collin Schwartz, co-founder of 11Wealth and Point Guard Omaha. With over 3,500 units under management, Collin breaks down why the "Steady Eddy" Midwest market is the ultimate hedge against coastal volatility. The conversation explores the "infinite return" model, how to identify operational constraints before applying tech, and why the smallest details—like standardized flooring and digital access—can swing an asset’s valuation by millions.
The Midwest Strategy: Stability Over Speculation While coastal markets often experience "boom or bust" cycles—seeing dips as high as 50% in asset values during downturns—Collin highlights the Midwest as a temperate climate for investors. By focusing on Class B and C "value-add" assets, 11Wealth looks to increase the bottom line by 20–30%. The goal? The "Infinite Return." By purchasing a distressed asset (whether financially or operationally distressed), renovating it, and increasing the Net Operating Income (NOI), they can refinance the property, return 100% of investor capital tax-free, and allow partners to stay in the deal forever. Identifying the "Constraint" Before the Tech A common mistake in modern real estate is throwing technology at a problem without understanding the bottleneck. Collin argues that technology should only be used to remove a specific constraint.
One of the most significant financial drains in multifamily is tenant turnover. Collin and Joshua discuss the "hidden" cost of physical keys:
Investors often focus on the P&L, but tenants buy with their senses. Before a tenant even sees a unit, they judge an asset based on:
The conversation concludes with a powerful reminder about the "Visionary" role. Whether navigating the "brain damage" of municipal utilities or turning a "No" into a "Yes," the successful developer must be a steward of the vision. In a business valued on multiples, every dollar added to the NOI is worth $15 to $20 on the exit. Don’t be short-sighted by chasing monthly cash at the expense of the asset's long-term health. SEO Keywords & Strategy Primary Keywords
Ditch the Brass: How ZeroKey Transforms the Tenant Experience and Boosts ROI for Property Managers7/24/2025  The Challenges of Traditional Keys in Modern Living Spaces In today's fast-paced world, property managers and tenants alike are all too familiar with the frustrations that come with traditional brass keys. From the inconvenience of lost keys to the costly process of rekeying locks every time a tenant moves out, these outdated systems not only drain time and resources but also pose significant security risks. Property managers are constantly juggling the need to provide secure access while minimizing operational headaches, and tenants often find themselves locked out or frustrated by the lack of modern convenience. It’s clear that a new approach is needed one that aligns with the expectations of modern living.  Introducing ZeroKey: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities Enter ZeroKey, a revolutionary solution designed to meet the demands of modern living while addressing the pain points of traditional key systems. Perfectly suited for existing properties, ZeroKey offers an effortless way to bring buildings into the modern age. With ZeroKey's digital locking technology, property managers can say goodbye to the hassle of lost keys and expensive rekeying. Even better, ZeroKey requires zero Wi-Fi, zero IT involvement, and zero additional infrastructure. That means no expensive wiring or complex installations just a simple upgrade that dramatically improves both security and convenience. For tenants, it’s a smoother, more secure living experience where access is as easy as a tap on their smartphone. ZeroKey transforms what was once a source of frustration into a seamless, modern convenience.  Enhancing ROI, Tenant Satisfaction, and Time Savings with ZeroKey In addition to elevating security and convenience, ZeroKey delivers a powerful return on investment for property owners and managers. By eliminating the costs associated with rekeying and lost keys, ZeroKey helps streamline operations and reduce overhead. But the benefits don’t stop there. ZeroKey also provides a significant return on time freeing property managers from the constant hassle of managing physical keys, scheduling maintenance calls, or dealing with lockouts. This time savings translates into better service, faster response times, and more attention to the needs of tenants. The result? Happier tenants who are more likely to renew their leases, fewer operational headaches, and a stronger bottom line. With ZeroKey, you’re not just installing new hardware you’re investing in operational freedom.  Partnering with ZeroKey: Investing in the Future of Your Property At ZeroKey, we believe upgrading to a modern access solution is more than just a technological advancement, it’s about building a partnership that invests in your long-term success. You’re not just a customer; you’re part of a forward-thinking network working to create safer, smarter, and more efficient living environments. This partnership goes beyond installation. We provide dedicated support, training, and innovation to ensure your system continues to deliver maximum value. With ZeroKey, you're investing in the future of your property, your team, and your residents. Let’s build it together.  Book a Free Implementation Planning Call
Closing Line: Software doesn't have to be complicated. With the right plan - and the right system - you'll be up and running faster, with less friction and more control.  We’re thrilled to announce that ZeroKey will be a proud vendor at this year’s National Apartment Association (NAA) Apartmentalize conference! Come visit us and discover how our innovative digital locks can revolutionize your property management!
 Let’s be real: most software implementations are a headache. On average, companies spend three months rolling out new systems. During that time, the average employee loses up to 2 full weeks of productivity - around 22 minutes per day - due to delays, confusion, and learning curves. The problem isn’t just the software. It’s how most companies approach implementation. Whether you're installing accounting software, HR tools, or a digital key system, success depends on smart planning and execution. Here’s a proven framework to make any software rollout smoother - especially if you’re the administrator tasked with making it work. 1. Thorough Planning and Preparation a. Define Clear Objectives and Scope Know why you're making the switch. Is it to improve security, reduce key management headaches, or scale with growth? b. Assess Readiness Is your infrastructure up to date? Do you have buy-in from stakeholders and users? c. Develop a Realistic and Detailed Implementation Plan Break your rollout into clear phases with timeframes, responsibilities, and benchmarks. d. Robust Data Migration Strategy Understand where your current data lives, what’s accurate, and how it will move into the new system cleanly. 2. Focus on People a. Effective Change Management Change brings resistance. Help people understand the “why,” not just the “what.” b. Stakeholder Involvement and Communication Bring in the right voices early. Ongoing feedback helps avoid costly missteps later. c. Comprehensive Training Even the best software fails without proper training. Prepare simple, ongoing learning plans. d. Strong Leadership Support When leadership backs the process visibly, the team is more likely to get on board. 3. Strategic Execution a. Assemble a Skilled Team Don’t go it alone. Identify internal champions and, if needed, lean on external expertise. b. Configure and Customize Thoughtfully Avoid over-customizing from day one. Get the core system working well first. c. Thorough Testing in Real-World Scenarios Simulate how people will actually use the system, then iterate. d. Phased Rollout (if applicable) Start with a smaller group or location before going organization-wide. So How Do We Make It Easier? Here’s Our 5-Step Setup for LoxIQ At ZeroKey, we’ve taken everything above and boiled it into a simplified, guided process. LoxIQ is designed to help you go from manual key management to digital access control - without the usual headaches. Here’s our streamlined 5-step implementation method: Step 1: Identify the doors
Step 2: Define user types
Step 3: Plan your data import
Step 4: Import the data
Step 5: Install & connect hardware
Why LoxIQ Works When Others Fail
Book a Demo Book a Free Implementation Planning Call Closing Line: Software doesn't have to be complicated. With the right plan - and the right system - you'll be up and running faster, with less friction and more control.   Managing keys is a hassle—lost keys, rekeying costs, and security risks from copied keys can drain your time and budget. At ZeroKey, we understand these challenges because we’ve been there too. That’s why we’ve developed a solution that eliminates the need for traditional brass keys, without requiring IT involvement. Here’s how ZeroKey can help you:
Pro Tip for Multi-Family Operators: Switching to a keyless system not only saves you time but also boosts tenant satisfaction. A modern access control system is a great selling point for attracting and retaining tenants who value convenience and security. Success Story: Harvest Development, a multi-family property owner, transformed their tenant experience and cut costs by switching to ZeroKey. Their tenants love the convenience, and their team enjoys the reduced workload. Are you ready to simplify access control and save money? CTA: 👉 Book a Free Demo Today 👉 Learn More About ZeroKey ZeroKey is proud to serve property managers, business owners, and facility decision-makers across Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. Let us help you eliminate keys and focus on what matters most—your business.  Do you think your current locking hardware is secure? Let me tell you a story.
Recently, I stayed at an Airbnb, and during the check-in process, I was given a code to the door. Being in the business, I was curious about the type of lock, but I knew it was a 4-digit code. It turned out to be a Schlage Grade 2 lock with a 10-digit keypad. This lock can have a 6-digit master code and up to 10 individual 4-digit codes. I started to wonder: Do they ever change the code? My code was 3558. Do they change it every few stays? With cleaners, maintenance personnel, and others needing access, do they all use the same code? How many times has this code been texted to someone, potentially being shared with multiple others? How do they track who has the code? One incident could occur, and there’d be no way to know if someone unauthorized had accessed the property. While there’s a camera near the door for some level of accountability, what if it’s three days between known entries? How would you find the relevant footage? The camera isn’t on the door, after all. Is my family really safe there at night? The Security Concerns for Property Owners As a property owner, do you think about these issues? What if someone had the code and did something terrible to a family? The lock installed at the Airbnb cost about the same as a Proxess lock, but with Proxess, you get added security and peace of mind, knowing exactly who has access. The Broader Issue with Code Locks This concern isn’t just about one particular lock; it applies to any lock with a code. Some locks are better because they connect to WiFi and change codes automatically. But what if I stayed for two nights, paid for three, and shared the code with an acquaintance? Now, a stranger has access. The Issue with Traditional Keys and Fobs Traditional keys are another problem. I could walk to a hardware store and make 10 copies. Even high-security keys can be ordered online. Classic fobs are an improvement, but there’s still the question of who really holds the fob. The Proxess Solution: Secure and Reliable A system like LoxIQ with Proxess solves all these issues without costing more than a high-quality digital lock. With Proxess, you get all the added security and safety of knowing who truly has access. Our locks don't require a network, and everything is managed through your phone, ensuring that unauthorized access is nearly impossible. Plus, our installation is fast and cost-effective, with no need for extensive infrastructure work. Questions? Book a Free demo with one of our reps from Omaha Nebraska, Des Moines Iowa, or Kansas City Missouri.  Managing a multitude of brass keys can be an overwhelming and frustrating task for any business. Keeping track of who has which key, ensuring keys are returned, and dealing with the inevitable loss or misplacement can consume valuable time and resources. It's a headache you shouldn't have to deal with.
Imagine a world where you never have to worry about misplaced keys again. With a digital locking system like ZeroKey, you can simplify your key management instantly. No more juggling countless keys or worrying about unauthorized duplicates—just streamlined, secure, and efficient access control. Make the switch today and free yourself from the management nightmare, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—growing your business. The High Cost of Rekeying: Why It's Time to Go Digital Every time a brass key is lost, stolen, or an employee leaves, businesses face the costly and time-consuming process of rekeying locks. These expenses can quickly add up, not to mention the operational downtime and inconvenience it causes. It's a recurring expense that businesses can no longer afford to overlook. Imagine eliminating this hassle entirely. With a digital locking system like ZeroKey, you can say goodbye to rekeying costs and hello to a more efficient, secure way of managing access. Make the switch today and invest your resources where they matter most—growing your business and enhancing security. Limited Access Control: Why Brass Keys Are Holding You Back Relying on traditional brass keys means limited control over who can access your premises and when. Adjusting access permissions is cumbersome and time-consuming, making it difficult to adapt quickly to changing security needs. This inflexibility can leave your business vulnerable. Imagine a system where access control is at your fingertips, allowing you to grant or revoke access instantly. With digital locking systems like ZeroKey, you gain the power to manage access effortlessly, enhancing security and operational efficiency. Make the switch today and unlock the full potential of your security strategy. Questions? Book a Free demo with one of our reps from Omaha Nebraska, Des Moines Iowa, or Kansas City Missouri.  If you’ve ever explored the world of access control and the multitude of options available, you’ll find this resonates with you. If you’re just starting to consider controlled access, read on for some key points.
The Complexity of Standard Access Control Systems Most systems on the market are some form of online or LAN (Local Area Network) systems. This means that your hardware needs to be on the grid—your grid. Some use wireless access points, while others are directly wired to a network switch. For small companies or home networks, this might not seem like a big deal since you control the network, and your firewall or router handles the heavy lifting, allowing you to log in with ease. However, these systems come with significant downsides. The added cost of extra devices, wiring, and labor can be substantial. As your needs grow, you might also need to upgrade network switches to accommodate more access points. For businesses with internal IT departments or outsourced IT services, managing these systems can become even more complex. IT professionals control what’s on your network and which devices have access. If you want a system you can control from your phone, you might expose your network to potential outside intrusion. Alternatively, if you only care about handing out fobs and limiting access without remote access, you’re stuck with a local computer that only works for that one system. This means you have to be onsite to make keys, and you miss out on the convenience of remote access—basically, a throwback to the 90s, and it’s expensive. Proxess Locks: A Revolutionary Solution Our Proxess locks address these primary issues seamlessly. Unlike traditional systems, our locks don’t require a network. Everything is managed through your phone—the phone is the network. This eliminates the need for IT involvement unless they also have the key box and control who gets into the building. Proxess locks stay off your grid, ensuring they are not a burden on your network. Because our system doesn’t require extensive infrastructure work, installation is fast and cost-effective. The worst-case scenario might involve installing a power supply and electronic locking device—something common to any system you may need. Key Benefits of Proxess Locks With Proxess locks, you get all the basic benefits of a standard access control system without the complexities and high costs. While there are some limitations, 99% of users don’t need the extensive features of big enterprise systems. Proxess locks provide a perfect balance of functionality, security, and simplicity, making them ideal for most businesses and home networks. Questions? Book a Free demo with one of our reps from Omaha Nebraska, Des Moines Iowa, or Kansas City Missouri.  In today's fast-paced world, efficiency and security are paramount in managing facilities. Traditional key rings, master key systems, and the challenges they present can significantly hamper productivity and security. This white paper explores the inefficiencies of conventional key systems, the drawbacks of master key hierarchies, and introduces the innovative solution offered by ZeroKey using Proxess LoxIQ—a digital master key system that combines Grade 1 hardware durability with state-of-the-art access control technology.
The Problem with Traditional Key Systems Facilities personnel often carry large key rings with multiple keys, each corresponding to different doors within the facility. This system is not only cumbersome but also time-consuming. Based on estimates:
This lost productivity translates to significant operational inefficiencies and increased labor costs. Master Key Systems: A Partial Solution The traditional solution to the problem of large key rings is the implementation of a master key system. This system establishes a hierarchy of keys, with a single master key that can open all doors, and sub-master keys that open specific groups of doors. While this system can reduce the time spent searching for keys by 60% for the holder of the master key, it presents several challenges:
The Digital Master Key Solution: Proxess LoxIQ To address the inefficiencies and security risks associated with traditional key and master key systems, Proxess LoxIQ offers a cutting-edge digital master key solution. This system leverages Grade 1 hardware, ensuring durability and reliability, and incorporates advanced access control technology to streamline key management and enhance security. Key Features and Benefits
Conclusion The Proxess LoxIQ digital master key system offers a revolutionary approach to access control, addressing the inefficiencies and security risks associated with traditional key and master key systems. By integrating high-quality hardware with advanced digital key management, Proxess LoxIQ provides a secure, efficient, and cost-effective solution that enhances productivity and peace of mind for facilities personnel and management alike. Questions? Book a Free demo with one of our reps from Omaha Nebraska, Des Moines Iowa, or Kansas City Missouri. |
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