> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.fortifylistings.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
# Managing Showings: Scheduling, Lockbox, and Access
> Learn how showings work on each Fortify plan — from ShowingTime automated scheduling on Pro and Elite to direct coordination on Essentials.
Once your listing is live on the MLS, buyer agents will start requesting showings. How you manage that process depends on the plan you chose. Pro and Elite sellers get fully automated showing scheduling and an electronic lockbox so agents can access the home without any back-and-forth. Essentials sellers coordinate directly with buyer agents — a simpler setup that works well if you're comfortable managing your own schedule and access. Either way, you stay in control of when your home is shown.
## Pro & Elite: automated scheduling with ShowingTime
On Pro and Elite, showing requests flow through **ShowingTime** — the same platform buyer agents use on traditionally-listed homes. When an agent wants to schedule a showing, they submit a request through ShowingTime, specifying the date and time. You receive an instant notification and can **approve, decline, or suggest an alternative time** right from your phone or the seller dashboard.
Because agents expect ShowingTime on active MLS listings, this removes any friction in getting your home in front of qualified buyers quickly.
### The electronic lockbox
Pro and Elite plans include a **Supra eKey-compatible electronic lockbox** — the standard used by licensed agents throughout Florida. The lockbox attaches to your property (typically the front door handle or a fixed fixture) and stores a copy of your house key. Agents access it using an authorized Supra eKey fob or the Supra smartphone app.
Key features of the electronic lockbox:
* **Controlled access** — only agents with an active, licensed eKey credential can open it
* **Automatic entry log** — every opening is recorded with the agent's identity and timestamp
* **No seller coordination required** — approved showings happen automatically; you don't need to be home or let anyone in
After each showing, many agents send feedback through ShowingTime as well — useful information as you track buyer interest.
Review your ShowingTime showing log regularly. If agents are viewing but not following up, that feedback (or the lack of it) can inform a price adjustment or listing tweak.
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## Essentials: direct coordination with buyer agents
On Essentials, you coordinate showings directly with buyer agents by **phone, text, or email**. When an agent wants to show your home, they'll contact you using the contact information on file in the MLS. You agree on a time, communicate access instructions, and manage entry yourself.
This approach gives you full hands-on control and works well for sellers who are available and comfortable fielding agent calls. The trade-off is that some agents prefer automated scheduling and may move on to the next listing if direct coordination is inconvenient.
Even on Essentials, we strongly recommend using a lockbox of some kind. Agents expect to be able to access listed properties without the seller being present for every showing. A combination lockbox (available at any hardware store) or a basic real estate lockbox lets showings happen on the agent's schedule — and yours. If you upgrade to Pro, a Supra eKey-compatible electronic lockbox is included automatically.
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## Setting your showing preferences
You control when your home is available for showings and how much notice you require. Set these preferences before your listing goes live so agents know what to expect.
Configure your showing availability directly in **ShowingTime** during listing setup. You can specify:
* **Available days and hours** — block out times when showings aren't permitted (e.g., early mornings, late evenings, specific days)
* **Minimum advance notice** — require 1 hour, 2 hours, 24 hours, or more before a showing can be confirmed
* **Confirmation type** — auto-approve showings that fall in your available windows, or require your manual approval for every request
* **Showing instructions** — notes for the agent, such as pet instructions, alarm codes, or entry details
ShowingTime enforces these settings automatically, so you never receive a request outside your stated availability.
Communicate your showing preferences **directly to buyer agents** when they contact you. There's no system to enforce your preferences automatically, so be clear upfront about:
* Days and times you're available
* How much advance notice you need
* How you prefer to be contacted (call, text, or email)
* Any special access or entry instructions
Consider including a brief note in your MLS listing remarks (e.g., "24-hour notice required — call or text \[your number]") so agents see your preferences before they reach out.
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## Yard sign (optional add-on)
A professional **Fortify yard sign** is available as a flat-fee add-on for any plan. You can order it after your listing is accepted and live. The sign displays your property's status and directs interested neighbors, passersby, and drive-by buyers to your listing.
Yard signs are optional but consistently effective — especially in neighborhoods where neighbors are likely to refer friends or family looking to buy. If you're in a high-traffic area or on a visible corner lot, a yard sign can meaningfully expand your exposure beyond the MLS.
To add a yard sign, visit your seller dashboard after your listing goes live and select the yard sign add-on from the available options.
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## Questions about showings?
Reach the Fortify support team at [support@fortifylistings.com](mailto:support@fortifylistings.com) or call **(407) 777-4-MLS**, Monday through Friday, 9 am – 5 pm ET. If you're on Pro or Elite and want to adjust your ShowingTime configuration, your dashboard has direct access to your showing settings at any time.