Most users looking for a real estate web site are looking for real estate, meaning they want to see available homes and properties for sale. In most markets, the MLS is the best equipped tool to present users with what they are searching for. So, the question we often see, "how do I add the MLS to my site?" There are a few methods discussed below.
First of all, a discussion on how MLS works. MLSs store data in databases. They provide a user view to add, update, read, and delete the data. The data base sits in the background storing all of this working data. In order to build a view for clients to see the data a web master must have access to that data (often via IDX) and know how to format it. That knowledge and ability comes with a price.
Three Methods to Add MLS to Your Site
- Contact your MLS provider and format IDX yourself - Data from the MLS can be fed to a database stored on your server and you can format the data yourself. This option requires an advanced knowledge of web design.
- Use the tool provided by the MLS - One of the only times I suggest using a frame page is with the MLS. Many do-it-yourself web designers are not advanced enough or don't want to spend the time in formatting IDX/MLS data into their site. Many MLS tools provide a tool designers can link to that is virtually a MLS search engine. Designers can choose from several template skins to wrap the data. A frame can include this tool and make it look like the MLS is part of the site or at least related to it.
- Pay a company to provide the local MLS - There are companies specialized in providing the MLS and manipulating IDX. They will charge a monthly fee usually to maintain the data fed into their system.
Make sure you find some method to include the MLS. Many users come looking only for the MLS. When they decide to hire an agent you want them to choose you because they are used to using your site and tools.
If you have any other options not discussed above please comment them below.
For more real estate web site technology ideas visit the Table of Contents - Technology page.
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