Does anyone have thoughts on how to solve this problem or any precedents of failed attempts to? Preferably by eliminating labor without changing the hardware (I.e. obvious solutions of smartlocks or Uber/Gig model).
Besides, if you only lock your door from the outside, then it’s impossible to lock yourself out. That solves the most common scenario.
I lived in a low rise apartment before and just hid a key on the premises in a spot where it couldn't be associated with my apartment and that I thought wouldn't be likely to be disturbed.
As a homeowner, I've come to the conclusion that the best thing is to have some kind of backup system that relies on a code or something not requiring a key at least. Doesn't have to be a smartlock per se, but some system that allows you access without any key.
Good locksmiths do a lot more than just get into a locked door. I learned the hard way that they can fix doors that were never really cut right, have access to locks and bolt systems that you can't buy as a general retail consumer, and lots of other things. I always thought of them as a kind of backup until I ran into a problem (long story, not really my fault actually in many ways), and they recut the door and put in a very high quality lock I would have never been able to purchase myself. I was kicking myself for not calling them years earlier.