The Difference Between MLS and IDX
Which choice is right for your real estate website
The difference between an MLS and IDX is this:
• MLS is typically reserved for its members: real estate agents and brokers. Agents and brokers upload and share listings and keep these listings up-to-date. Those listings can also be downloaded by agents or shared with their clients through links.
• IDX is software hosted on a website that allows agents to populate listings from a local MLS or multiple MLS’s.
What is IDX?
IDX, or Internet Data Exchange, allows site visitors to search MLS properties on a third-party website. Examples of websites using IDX solutions include Zillow and Trulia. In the past, buyers had to rely on their real estate agent or broker to view listings in their area. With IDX, property information from any MLS is displayed on a website so that the general public can perform their own property searches.
IDX isn’t its own website but a software that allows anyone to share the MLS data on a 3rd party website.
If you are an agent or broker and are in need of a new website, you should consider an IDX solution for your site.
After all, an IDX solution will:
- Attract buyer and seller leads through lead generation forms
- Showcase your listings and those in your target area
- Help your listings to gain more exposure
- Draws more traffic to your website
- Increases the websites authoritativeness on search engines, helping you rank higher
- Helps your buyers find their dream property within your digital ecosystem
There are three top IDX MLS providers to choose from:
– iHomefinder
– IDX Broker
– Showcase IDX
Although all three display the MLS on your site, they showcase MLS information differently and offer different features. There are also better options depending on what platform you are thinking of building your website on.
Not sure what solution is right for you?
Contact us today and we’ll guide you on your options.