You’ve probably asked, “What is IDX in real estate?” I know I have. IDX in real estate can seem complicated, but it’s simple to learn about. Once you understand that there is a difference between IDX and MLS, you’ll see how IDX can improve your website and overall business. Let’s look at the essential details about what IDX is and how to create an IDX website.
IDX in Real Estate Defined
IDX stands for Internet Data Exchange. Put simply, it’s the system that allows real estate professionals to display Multiple Listing Service (MLS) listings on their websites. More specifically, it is an agreement between brokers that allows real estate listings to be shared across the internet.
There are multiple ways for agents or brokers to create an IDX website, like using a real estate website builder. An IDX WordPress plugin is the best choice for real estate professionals who want to own their website and have the highest level of flexibility. WordPress IDX plugins make it easy for agents to add listings to their site and customize the display, search filters, and lead capture strategies.
IDX vs MLS
When you’re learning what an IDX website is, it can be misunderstood as being a part of the MLS or Multiple Listing Service. The MLS is the primary source of current real estate listings in a given area, like a city or county. On the other hand, IDX is the behind-the-scenes software that automatically transfers the listing details to a real estate website. For example, even the largest real estate websites, like Zillow and Realtor.com, get their information from local MLS listings.
IDX Regulations
If you choose to incorporate IDX listings on your website (which you absolutely should), make sure you understand the IDX policies for your area’s MLS. Most MLS systems want agents to display listings on their site, but they also set some important rules.
Many IDX regulations state that you cannot:
- Post a seller’s listing if the seller has told their agent they do not want their property listed in IDX
- Leave listings on your website that have not been updated
- Give information to parties not participating in the IDX exchange
- Change information included in the IDX listing (e.g., features and property dimensions)
- Include listings on your website that haven’t been approved for display by the MLS or listing agent
For example, you can view the National Association of Realtor’s (NAR) IDX policies here. Make sure to check specific rules for your local MLS.
Why IDX Is Important for Real Estate Agents
According to the NAR, 100% of homebuyers use the internet in their home search. Plus, for 41% of homebuyers, searching online was the first step they took—even before contacting an agent. This fact means that when you have an IDX website where buyers can search and view active listings, you have the ability to generate buyer leads who are ready to convert.
Some agents think having listings on their website isn’t valuable because buyers mostly use large portals like Zillow or Realtor.com. However, these large listing sites do not include all homes on the MLS. This absence of all listings gives agents a valuable opportunity to show buyers that their sites offer more properties and potentially better search and filtering options.
A few more of the most important benefits of using IDX integrations on WordPress include:
- Search features: Allows users to filter results based on specific needs, like recreational activities, memberships, and property features
- Real-time market updates: Allows users to access the most up-to-date listing information and changes as they happen.
- Generate real estate leads: Many IDX plugins include lead generation tools like lead capture forms or integrations with customer relationship managers (CRMs)
- Integration with email and social media: IDX platforms automatically connect with other platforms to easily share listings via email or social media to generate the maximum traffic
- Analytics: IDX plugins provide analytics so you can see firsthand what your leads and clients are searching for
How to Create an IDX Real Estate Website
Now that we’ve answered, “What is IDX in real estate?” and why it’s important, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to use it. While there are a few different ways to build an IDX website, the primary method is to purchase a real estate domain name, use WordPress to build the site, and purchase an IDX plugin or integration to display listings.
If this is your chosen method, it’s wise to read our guide on How to Build an IDX Real Estate Website in an Afternoon. However, the steps to download and start using an IDX integration with WordPress will look like this:
- Choose an IDX plugin: There are a few well-known plugins like IDX Broker and RealtyNA, but you need to determine which option has the best features for your specific needs. We’ve listed some of the best WordPress IDX Plugin options in the section below.
- Install the plugin: Go to “Plugins” on the main menu in your WordPress dashboard and click “Add New.” Search for the plugin you’ve chosen and click “Install Now.” When you’ve installed it, click “Activate.”
- Configure the plugin: Once you’ve activated the plugin, it will prompt you to purchase an IDX license.
- Update your website with your IDX WordPress Plugin: Add a new page for your IDX feature or embed it onto an existing landing page.
Research your other options if you haven’t already created a WordPress website. For example, Placester is a code-free real estate website builder with IDX capabilities already built in. It’s much easier to use and provides a wide variety of ready-to-use website templates and support options. Read our Placester review to help you decide if it’s right for you.
On the other hand, tools like IXACT Contact might be even better. IXACT Contact is a CRM system that includes a free agent website with IDX—plus additional tools like email marketing and direct mail tools. Learn all the details about IXACT Contact in our review.
Best WordPress IDX Plugins
Using a plugin will easily transform your WordPress website into a listing treasure trove. Take a look at some of the best options below:
| Tool | Best For | Starting Price | Features | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Agents wanting a robust IDX platform with a variety of tools | $199 |
| Visit RealtyNA WPL |
 | Agents wanting a simple tool to import MLS listings | $49 per month |
| Visit MLS Import |
 | Individual agents or agencies seeking a user-friendly tool | $89 |
| Visit Estatik Real Estate |
 | Professionals wanting a user-friendly tool that integrates with a CRM | $84.95 per month |
| Visit Showcase IDX |
 | Agents or teams wanting an affordable solution with add-on options and integrations | $55 per month |
| Visit IDX Broker |
| Tool | Best For | Starting Price | Features | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Agents wanting a robust IDX platform with a variety of tools | $199 |
| Visit RealtyNA WPL |
 | Agents wanting a simple tool to import MLS listings | $49 per month |
| Visit MLS Import |
 | Individual agents or agencies seeking a user-friendly tool | $89 |
| Visit Estatik Real Estate |
 | Professionals wanting a user-friendly tool that integrates with a CRM | $84.95 per month |
| Visit Showcase IDX |
 | Agents or teams wanting an affordable solution with add-on options and integrations | $55 per month |
| Visit IDX Broker |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does IDX stand for?
IDX stands for Internet Data Exchange. It is the system that allows listings from the local MLS to be displayed on real estate agent and broker websites or single-property websites.
What is an IDX website?
An IDX website is a real estate agent or broker’s site with listings that can be viewed or searched. This allows homebuyers and sellers to see active homes for sale and search for listings that may not be shown on large portals.
How do I get IDX on my website?
You can add IDX listings to your website in a few different ways. There are real estate website building platforms that come with IDX capabilities built in or CRM systems with IDX website templates. However, using a WordPress website with an IDX plugin is the most common method.
Bringing It All Together
Having an IDX website is an excellent marketing tool for real estate agents. By having real-time property data and listings on your site, potential homebuyers can use your website to search for properties instead of large real estate portals. Plus, choosing the right IDX plugin makes it easy to add this feature to your website and generate new leads. So, the next time you see an agent scratching their head, wondering, “What is IDX in real estate?” you can show them how you’ve used it to grow your business!
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