Applications and websites have hundreds of features and if a developer wants to write code for every single one of them, it will take years for an app to be ready. And let’s not even talk about all the debugging and troubleshooting. Mostly, developers use libraries in which multiple codes are already up for grabs. Most of these codes may need revising and some may be impractical. That's why most developers use APIs to take care of their coding.
Now, let’s see what an API actually is and how it benefits my Real Estate website:
What is an API
An API or Application Programming Interface is basically a restaurant menu for developers.
They can choose from a list of features on this menu without worrying about the coding behind it.
This means saving a lot of coding time, especially for monotonous and small works and it doesn’t end there.
You can use it from a software/service provider and embed their services into your website or application.
If I need to show the map on my website, I don’t need to write so many codes for it. I simply use the API from a map service provider such as API.
Some APIs are free of charge but even if they come with a price tag, it is often nothing compared to the time and cost of coding.
In addition, you won’t have to worry about updating codes for everything on a website or application. Remember the restaurant menu? The chef will take care of everything.
Examples of APIs for Real Estate Websites
Real estate IDX websites are no exception to this development phenomenon. There are so many features you need to run on your IDX website such as neighborhoods, maps, listings and so on.
Here is a list of popular APIs for your real estate IDX website:
Google Maps API
Please watch the video to see how you can set up a Google Map on your WPL website.
Realtors Property Resource API
Check out What is RPR to get some insights.
Yelp API
Of of the main applications of Yelp in real estate is neighborhood information. Agents, buyers and even sellers can use this valuable source for their property research.
Remember, Realtyna offers a Yelp integration which helps you pull Yelp’s neighborhood data and rating and display it on your website. Check out How to Add Yelp to Your Real Estate IDX Listings for more information.
MLS
Realtyna’s MLS API, for instance, is flexible. It gives you the chance to choose to save locally or on the fly. Please read How Does MLS API Work for more information.
DATA.GOV
In addition to them, this portal offers publicly available governmental datasets that can be used for a real estate website.
Visit the official website and use the search option to find what you need.
Walk Score API
They can enjoy the following features:
- Display the Walk Score or Transit Score of a location
- Enable search by Walk Score on your site
- Show public transit on a map
- Visualize travel time on a map
- Provide neighborhood insight
- Use for websites, mobile sites, and mobile applications
RESO
WPL
Those who Realtyna’s WPL for their website can use WPL API to interact with their platform. They can use this API or write codes for applications based on their WPL websites.
WPL API is based on RESTful technology and is HTTP-based.
Using WPL Plugin, you cam query you WPL Website through following calls:
- Add and remove favorites
- Load favorites
- Save search
- Reset password via SMS
- Show listing details
And more. Please read the documentation for clarifications.
Final Thoughts
APIs have come a long way. Despite their time-saving benefits for real estate web and application developers, APIs have their own share of technical issues.
Once you know your needs and set out to choose an API for it, make sure you do your homework. Check for reviews and purchase APIs from reputable vendors.
Realtyna is authorized by RESO and is an official vendor of its products.
You and your MLS can make the switch to RESO with help from Realtyna experts at every step of the way.
Want to know why and how you can switch to RESO? You should definitely check out the following blogs:
Comments(1)