The idea of joining different real estate sites is a good place to start. But, creating one's own page is more beneficial in increasing credibility. IDX provides realtors the benefits of accuracy, lead generation, and data security. So, it's time to know what are the processes of IDX approval. Around 36% of listings in major real estate sites are active, but 20% are inactive because they only use brokerage syndication and MLS Systems data feeds. It only tells that IDX is essential, so here's a step-by-step guide for IDX approval:
IDX Integration Services:
- IDX Broker
- Showcase IDX
- IDX Central
- iHomeFinder
IDX Approval and Paperwork
iHomeFinder listed several questions about the IDX approval. Thus, this article will turn those questions and answers into a step-by-step guide!
Sign up
Realtors must first sign up with their chosen IDX integration service. Email updates and more begin now!
Fill them up
Upon signing up, IDX integration services will email for IDX paperwork completion. For instance, iHomeFinder will email with the subject:
"ACTION REQUIRED: Please complete your IDX paperwork."
Wait for approval
Allow the board to review an application and wait a few business days to receive the approval. However, the approval timeframe for some paperwork takes up to two weeks.
While waiting for approval, here are some items to remember:
- An IDX integration service is not allowed to add IDX on a website unless approved.
- A few boards need an extra fee from the realtors.
- IDX integration services also take holidays and breaks. So, expect the business transactions on business days and hours.
Notification upon approval
Yes, do not worry. An approved IDX is usually announced through a notification. It's essential to be keen on reading the message. Remember, it contains instructions for a successful IDX approval.
Reminders About IDX approval
- Suppose a realtor is working for a team. All the other members should submit separate paperwork and wait for the approval.
- One of the initial requirements that the board looks for is if the agent is active in MLS.
- Approving an IDX request is impossible if a website is not yet approved in the MLS system.
The General Process of IDX Approval
- After signing up, realtors will receive an email with the IDX approval instructions.
- Realtors must wait for the official IDX email from the service provider.
- After sending the completed IDX paperwork, the boards will send it to the MLS within one business day.
- Realtors must wait several business days for the IDX approval.
- There are constant updates during the process of IDX approval.
Realtors have to wait and follow the instructions from the IDX integration services. As a result, it will help them keep track of their progress and avoid problems along the process.
IDX Rules and Regulations Every Realtor Must Know
The first thing that realtors must remember is the goal of IDX. It helps build a data connection between a website and MLS. Hence, it ensures that a website receives updates.
Thus, NAR listed a few regulations that realtors must follow for an effective IDX website:
- Every listing must be approved in MLS or listing broker before featuring it on a site.
- Changing or removing the information about the property, like its features, is impossible. Especially without approval from the listing agent.
- IDX participants are not allowed to post a seller's listing if the seller requested not to.
The Approval of IDX
The National Association of Realtors listed policies about the IDX approval. They drew it from the Handbook on Multiple Listing Policy, where it discusses the following policies:
Policies Applicable to Participant's IDX Sites
It comprises 12 policies that talk about the duties and responsibilities of IDX participants. It also explains the different listing rules to ensure the equal usage of IDX sites.
Policies Applicable to Multiple Listing Services
These 11 policies are about the rules and regulations of MLS. Hence, it also explains the etiquette of realtors, especially in listing activities.
Additional local issues/options
This area of the NAR policies generally talks about the limitations or the dos and don'ts in IDX and MLS. Thus, it also enumerated the participatory rights of the realtors who got approved in IDX.
The Bottom Line
IDX integration makes the realtors' listing jobs easier. As a result, the business becomes more efficient and credible. Keep in mind that the only secret in IDX approval is attention to details. Finally, it is vital to follow the instructions and be patient!
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