IDX – more than a listing search

Yesterday I went to my local grocery store for lunch because I had a coupon for a free deli sandwich. I went in, ordered, and while the gentleman behind the counter created my sandwich masterpiece, he informed me that they currently have a promo for a free 20 oz soda to go with my sandwich. So, not only did I get a free sandwich, I got a free soda to go with it! Needless to say, I was pretty jazzed by this little extra they threw in. Sure it didn’t cost them much, but little extras can go a long way in customer satisfaction. Let me give you an example.

IDX (Internet Data Exchange), also called broker reciprocity, is a common tool that REALTORS use to display MLS listings on their own personal website. This offers agents and brokers the ability to give homebuyers the property selection they need to find their dream home, while also giving the agent tools to capture leads and generate new business. If this is how you’ve always thought about IDX, you’re right – but there can be so much more!

IDX is not only a tool for displaying MLS data; it’s a tool to display your own personal listings too! The best IDX tools have extra features that highlight your own listings and make managing your listings easier. For example, IDXPro (Disclosure: IDXPro is an iHOUSEweb product.) has what are called “My Listings” links. These links can be plugged into any website and automatically pull your own listings from your MLS onto that page. Basically, they eliminate the need for you to add your listings to your website. IDXPro has other cool features that highlight your listings too. For example, if a visitor performs an MLS search and one of your listings matches those criteria, your listing will show up first! You can even feature your listings on the main search page.

So next time you’re looking for an IDX search, don’t choose one that just gets the job done. Choose one with extras that will go above and beyond your minimum needs.

If you’re in the market for a top-notch IDX tool, take a free, no obligation test drive of IDXPro!