Case Study: The Palm Bay Club Modernizes Vacation Rental Access

Stéphane Poorghanad
10/5/2026

Sponsored by dormakaba

Vacation rental managers need to control access for different people and different parts of a property without making arrival more complicated for guests. The Palm Bay Club is a good example of how connected access can extend beyond the rental unit to the rest of the property.

Modern Commercial Locks Provide Vacationers with an Enhanced Keyless Experience

The Palm Bay Club in Siesta Key, Florida, needed to upgrade its door locks as part of a property remodel. With 206 condominiums and 160 vacation rentals, the beachfront resort wanted a keyless solution with the convenience of remote credentialing and a sleek, modern design. They chose the Saffire™ EVO Lock because it integrates with their VillaControl software automation, giving seamless access to owners, guests, and staff. It simplifies the check-in process and enhances access throughout the property, including at the gates, in the condos, at common-area doors, and to resort amenities.

The Challenge: How Do You Maximize Security While Balancing Convenience for Guests?

Saffire EVO keyless locks provide an easy-to-use, secure, and flexible access solution with the benefits of real-time connectivity. Saffire EVO offers the convenience of using either mobile devices, RFID credentials, or secure PINs for access to owner/guest units, common areas, and perimeter doors. Saffire EVO seamlessly integrates with building technology providers and amenities for vacation rental properties.

“We often get feedback from guests about how easy check-in is compared to before. The Saffire EVO Locks combined with our VillaControl software have streamlined operations, allowing us to focus on our guests and giving them a happy vacation. It’s a win-win,” says France Langan, general manager at Palm Bay Club.

The Solution: Integrated Access Provides Secure, Streamlined Operations for Vacation Rentals

A Modern Access Solution

With more than 360 total units to manage, the Palm Bay Club needed an access control solution that was modern, secure, and built to support their property well into the future. They were looking for a system that could simplify access management for short-term guests and staff while delivering a seamless, convenient guest experience.

A Collaborative Upgrade Experience

After discovering the Saffire EVO solution from dormakaba, Palm Bay Club quickly recognized it as the right fit for their property. The platform offered intuitive access control features along with flexible credential options, making it easy to securely deliver access credentials to guests.

The commercial-grade design of the Saffire EVO lock was another key advantage, especially given the property’s location in a hurricane-prone region. Palm Bay Club was confident the locks would provide long-term durability and reliable performance for years to come.

An additional benefit was dormakaba’s compatibility with preferred property management automation software provider, VillaControl. The implementation process itself was smooth and straightforward, supported by responsive sales guidance and strong customer service throughout the upgrade.

Key Results

Since implementing the new Saffire EVO VR Locks, Palm Bay Club has streamlined daily operations and elevated the guest experience. The property now benefits from a reliable, easy-to-manage access solution that improves efficiency while enhancing satisfaction for both guests and property owners.

Click here to read the full case study.

For business queries, please contact vacationrental.sales.US@dormakaba.com

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