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The Complete Guide to Apartment Gate Systems
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The Complete Guide to Apartment Gate Systems

Discover the latest advancements in apartment gate systems and find out what to look for when choosing one. Ensure the safety of your property and residents with our complete guide.

Laura Flowers
April 10, 2023

Apartment gate systems have come a long way from older access control methods. They now provide more advanced and convenient features, such as wireless systems and remote access.

These systems play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of your property and residents. However, choosing the right apartment gate system can be a challenging task, given the variety of options available in the market.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • How apartment gate systems work
  • The difference between older models and modern systems
  • How much you can expect to spend on an apartment gate system
  • What to look for in an apartment gate system

Whether you are a property manager or investor, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about apartment gate systems. 

What is an Apartment Gate System?

An apartment gate system is a tool to control access to an apartment complex. There are many different types of apartment gate systems, including manual/automatic gates, keypad/keycard gates, and wireless gate systems.

Manual or automatic gates are controlled by an operator, like a security guard or property manager. While these are fairly basic systems, properties must have someone on site monitoring the gate to let residents into the complex.

Most apartment gate systems use keypads, remotes, or key fobs to provide access. These are popular systems, because they don’t require an on-site attendant and offer moderate security. That said, these systems are both costly and can pose security issues. Specifically, keypad entry codes are often shared with visitors, causing your complex to become less secure over time.

Wireless gate systems are the most modern, convenient and cost-effective solutions. Systems like OpenVia allow residents and visitors to open gates with their smartphones. They offer enhanced convenience and accessibility while maintaining high levels of security.

How Does a Wireless Apartment Gate System Work?

There are different wireless apartment gate systems on the market, but the best solutions are often the most straightforward, like OpenVia’s smartphone entry app.

Residents can manage access via a smartphone app. Not only can they let themselves in, but they can also remotely manage visitor access. With OpenVia, visitors simply scan a QR code at the entry point, search for the resident's name, and start a video call. Residents can easily communicate with visitors and press a button to grant access to the building.

How Much Do Apartment Gate Systems Cost?

Cost of an apartment gate system is entirely dependent on the type of solution you choose. While the physical gate and the motor can run anywhere between $4000 to $20,000, you’re also paying for the access control or code system itself. Some of the biggest, hardware-heavy systems on the market can cost just as much as the gate itself, if not thousands more.

Fortunately, wireless access control systems are much less expensive. They don’t require expensive hardware, warranties, or hidden fees. Take OpenVia, for example. Instead of spending tens of thousands on a new access control system, you’re only charged a low monthly fee per unit. Not only are you getting a better system with modern features, but you’re also controlling your budget.

How to Choose an Apartment Gate System

For property managers looking for the best apartment gate system, a wireless system that offers both security and ease-of-use is the way to go. While many of the systems on the market are hardware-heavy and require a significant upfront investment, wireless gate systems work seamlessly with existing hardware and a mobile app. Here are some key considerations that property managers should keep in mind when selecting an apartment gate system:

Cost

As a property manager or owner, you want to give your residents the modern, convenient amenities they look for in an apartment complex. That said, many amenities and services come with a high price tag, and your budget isn’t limitless (unfortunately). Having to pick and choose amenities and make compromises on features is part of the job.

But when it comes to apartment gate systems, what if you don’t have to compromise? With a wireless system, like OpenVia, you can get the best solution with the features your residents want without making a huge dent in your budget.

Simple Installation

Hardwired systems, and even modern systems like video call boxes, can take hours or days to install and test. Fortunately, OpenVia’s wireless system takes less than 10 minutes to install. A proprietary low-voltage retrofit device is quickly installed and used to actuate the gate or other secure area. This device connects to your property’s WiFi, so all you have to do is install signage for residents and guests to review and start using.

Remote Access Management

As a property manager, your top priority is ensuring the safety of your residents and buildings. Outdated access systems such as keypad entry can have vulnerabilities. By eliminating gate codes and cumbersome intercom systems, wireless gate systems allow residents to use a mobile app to manage entry for themselves and visitors. 

One of the biggest perks for residents is remote access management. Instead of waiting around for delivery drivers or visiting friends and family, residents can grant entry via video call whenever, wherever. Wireless apartment call boxes not only provide convenience but also give property managers and residents a secure and user-friendly solution.

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Residents and visitors alike love OpenVia’s smartphone entry system! Schedule a demo today to learn more!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Laura Flowers

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