1. What is IDX?

IDX stands for Internet Data Exchange. IDX is a cooperative service offered through Realcomp II Ltd. through which participating real estate BROKERS consent to display their on-market listings on other IDX related Websites.

Please note: All participating Data Sharing Partner Listings are included in the IDX feed except those from the Flint Area Association of REALTORS^®.

2. How do Brokers make IDX listing data searches available from their websites?

Realcomp makes IDX listing data available for this purpose through two (2) different options; 1) a newer IDX listing search widget available through Point2 Agent (for use on Point2 Agent websites) and 2) a data feed via FTP or RETS (coming soon).

3. What is the difference between the IDX listing search widget through Point2 Agent and the data feed?

The IDX listing search widget through Point2 Agent enables both Brokers and Agents to incorporate into their Point2 Agent websites a search that references Realcomp's IDX listing database. The search widget (called "MLS Listings" on their site) provides the following features/benefits: simple and easy-to-use search interface, display of IDX listings, display of multiple photos for listings, e-mail leads on listings directed to you, mapping, mortgage calculator, and more. This option is available at no additional cost to Realcomp members.

The data feed option enables Brokers (who publish their firm's listings in the IDX/Point2 listing database) to download raw data from Realcomp's FTP site or RETS server (coming soon). Through custom programming efforts of the Broker (or that person's vendor), he/she is then able to display this data on the firm's website through their own custom interface. The data feed service is a chargeable service.

4. How do Brokers actually publish their firm's listings to the IDX/Point2 listing database?

Realcomp Brokers have the ability to publish their firm's listings to the IDX/Point2 database through the "Office Admin>OfficePreferences" settings of Realcomp Online^®. Unless a Broker has communicated otherwise, the default setting for this service is set to "opt-out". However, this setting can be changed to "opt-in" at any time.

5. How do Brokers and Agents obtain the IDX listing search widget through Point2 Agent?

To gain access to this widget, Realcomp Brokers and Agents will need to sign up for a  Point2 Agent account (which is free for Realcomp members). Signing up can be accomplished by requesting a Point2 invitation. Once you have a Point2 Agent account and are ready to add the IDX search widget to it, simply follow these tip sheet instructions. For additional Point2 Agent information, click here. No IDX contracts are necessary for the Point2 service.

6. How do Brokers obtain a data feed?

Brokers need to read and complete Realcomp's IDX Rules and Regulations and applicable IDX contract forms to obtain a data feed. If your website is hosted or programmed by a third party provider, your provider must sign the Third Party Consultant Form. Your provider will then retrieve daily data extracts from Realcomp and update the data on your IDX Website accordingly.

7. Where do I get the layouts and sample data for the data feed? For layouts, sample data, information, and announcements regarding the data, go to our IDX Service page.

8. Where can I find someone to host my website? Click here to view a list of Web hosting companies in your area.