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What is Internet Data Exchange (IDX)?

Internet Data Exchange (IDX) is a term that refers to the agreement and technology that allows real estate agents and brokers to display listings from a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) on their websites.

IDX enables agents and brokers to reach more potential buyers and showcase their properties online.

The benefits of using IDX​

You can provide your visitors with a comprehensive and up-to-date property search feature that directly accesses MLS data. IDX can also help you generate leads by offering user registration, saved searches, and property alerts. You can showcase your properties and market yourself as a professional and knowledgeable agent or broker.

Do you always need IDX?​

Whether you need IDX or not depends on your business goals and the purpose of your website. IDX can be beneficial for most real estate professionals, as it provides a convenient way to display up-to-date property listings, generate leads, and showcase your properties. However, there are some cases where IDX might not be necessary or suitable.

  • If your website serves a broader purpose beyond just listing properties, such as offering real estate advice, market insights, or educational content, you might not need IDX. Your website’s primary goal might be to provide information rather than listing properties.

  • If you specialize in a niche market, such as luxury homes, waterfront properties, or historic homes, you might not need IDX. You might prefer to handpick and curate the listings that you display on your website, rather than showing all the MLS listings in your area.

Ultimately, the decision to use IDX depends on your business model, goals, and the nature of your real estate activities. IDX can be a powerful tool for attracting and converting potential clients, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

IDX vs VOW​

IDX and VOW are two ways of displaying MLS listings on a real estate website. The main difference between them is the amount and type of data they provide.

IDX, or Internet Data Exchange, shows only active listings that are available for sale. IDX is used to advertise listings and attract leads. IDX requires the consent of the listing broker to display their listings on another website.

VOW, or Virtual Office Website, shows not only active listings, but also sold, expired, and withdrawn listings. VOW is used to provide brokerage services and compete with physical offices. VOW requires the registration of the website visitor and the approval of the MLS to access the data.

IDX and VOW have different advantages and disadvantages for real estate agents and brokers. IDX is more common and easier to set up, but VOW offers more data and functionality.

How to get IDX on website​

To get IDX on your website, you need to first get permission from your local MLS to display their listings on your website. You may need to fill out some paperwork and pay a fee to access the IDX data.

Second, you need to choose an IDX provider that covers your MLS and offers the features and customization options you want. You can compare their plans and prices on their websites. Providers such as RealtyVis offers affordable plans with many customizations allowing you to showcase a user-friendly MLS search on your website.

Depending on the provider and the platform you use, integrating an IDX solution may involve adding a code snippet, a plugin to your website, or completely migrating to a whole new platform. You may also need to customize your IDX search options and design to match your website’s style and functionality.