RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) is a system that would use a RFID key fob, or card to gain access to a location. Yes, regular keys are initially cheaper, but the expense can grow. To make the best option, the lock will have to be changed with every move out with a tenant. This means new keys must be made, and a locksmith to change the locks. Creating a master key is even more expensive of a venture. Physical key locks can be picked, and entry gained without a key. Keys can get lost, or stolen. If a bad actor knows where that key belongs too, it is a matter of time before they go to the location, gain entry, and rob the person. Keys were essential once, but if a property owner can afford to maintain a system, then RFID makes more sense.
An RFID key can be disabled immediately if lost or stolen. A new key card can be issued to you, and it will work within a few minutes of issuing the new key. This means the bad actor can’t gain entry into your residence if the key has been disabled. Yes, you will need to pay a higher price for the key card. If you lose a key card, you will lose that $25, but you would have to make new keys if you lose your keys, and may have to pay for a locksmith to come and change the locks. With that said, this is a smaller price to pay. You should not trade your key cards. If Alexis and Jane traded their cards, and Alexis loses her card, then the card that Jane is using will be disabled, while the card that Alexis was using will still be active for a bad actor to use against the family. Even if you buy key cards, you still shouldn’t trade your keys.
The RFID key card will also be used to open their mailbox, and any mail storage lockers that might be in the building. This is applicable to apartments only, and houses will have just a mail slot that their mail will be inserted into. All key cards provided by the realty will have the name of the intended person imprinted on the card. If that person no longer needs the key card, they should properly recycle it. A key card from FSP Realty is $25/key card. It would likely be cheaper to look to other places, but you aren’t likely able to customize the key.
Another option which will cost money will be to have an RFID tag inserted into the hand. The tag is the size of a grain of rice, and will sit between the thumb and pointer finger. This will allow you to never have to lose your key (unless you lost your hand).