Sorry you went through that… as a sitter, I would’ve helped pay but everyone is different.
I got locked out once as a sitter-similar scenario. The HO’s had taped a key under a pile of things in their basement and I was able to get back in.
Always have a spare key!!! if not get a code number lock.
Realtors have a little key hiding lock for apartment showings, for anyone here that uses regular keys, it would be wise to have one of those. It’s 10-20 dollars and will save so much time and effort.