IDX (or "Internet Data Exchange") allows MLS members to offer on their own Web sites a public search of live MLS data, including their own listings and those of other IDX participants. Depending on your MLS's setup, your Rapattoni MLS software may offer the following IDX feature.
IDX "Smart Framing" -- If your MLS has set this up: The IDX smart framing option lets brokers frame a public-view search of MLS listings right in their offices' Web sites. Setting up an IDX search is simple: the broker copies a hyperlink, then pastes it to a button or link in his/her own Web site labeled something like "Search for Properties."
When someone from the public clicks this link, a search form displays within the broker's Web site. The form offers criteria fields specified by the MLS as public-searchable. The broker can customize the search form by removing or reordering fields, and by changing the colors to blend in with the site.
Search results display real-time listing data, showing only the information designated as public-viewable. Reciprocal listings (those belonging to another broker who also participates in IDX) display an IDX logo and may identify the name of the listing broker/agent (depending on MLS rules) with the heading "Courtesy of ..."; however, contact information is given only for the broker hosting the Web site. Listings belonging to the hosting broker contain active links to the broker's information.
NOTE: Agents may also be able to set up IDX smart-framed searches on their own Web sites. If your MLS allows agent-level IDX, your broker must turn on this feature for an individual agent (by choosing Manage IDX Member Access from the Office menu). Once the broker has done this, you can set up your IDX search.
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