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While you won’t find outdoor keys on every property, hiding an extra key outside is a reality for many homeowners. Whether it’s under a mat, inside a pot, a garden gnome or on the molding above a door or window, we all know someone who hides a key outside. Keys are often left outside in case children get locked out after school. The method is also used should someone ever lose their keys. Either way, it seems as though some homeowners believe hiding a key from plain view will outsmart a potential burglar. This is not the case. Any place you might think to hide a key outside, your average burglar has probably thought of it too. In fact, burglars count on us to underestimate them.  

Jenn Blake Real Estate never recommends leaving a key outside the home, no matter how well you think you’ve hidden it. So then where should you hide your spare key? This post will address some alternative places to leave a key and while still keeping your safety in mind!

First, learn about these Spare Key No-No’s

• Never put your name, number, address or personal information on a key. If you were ever to lose this key, a thief can easily trace the key back to your home. 
• Never hide your spare key in your wallet. What if someone steals your wallet? They have your home address and the spare key to get inside your home.

Better, But Still Not My Favorite Suggestions to Hide Your Spare Home Key

• Keep a spare key with your BBQ grill sitting in the back yard. Find an inconspicuous spot on it and stash your spare there. It should be tucked away somewhere that isn’t obviously visible from someone’s standing viewpoint and shouldn’t be anywhere within easy finger-swiping reach.
• Place a spare key in a small ziplock bag (to protect from the elements and corrosion) and hide it under a larger rock or pavers stone, step stone, etc. somewhere in the back yard.
• If you have a shed, there will be a multitude of hiding places inside. Maybe under a gas can, or under a stack of scrap wood, etc.

If it is necessary or convenient to have a spare key hidden at your home, my first recommendation is to purchase a high quality lockbox that requires a code.  Be sure to make the access code unique to avoid a simple guess to allow the thief to open it.  Lockboxes at most home improvement and hardware stores, or online.

Hiding your key may seem like a smart way to avoid getting locked out, but it also puts you at risk. Consider the risk of discovery before you decide on a place to hide your spare key. If you’re looking to sell or purchase a home in the San Diego area, contact the Jenn Blake Real Estate Group at 858.663.6788!