MLS Listing Web Service

[termy]

Hello,

I'm a software developer from Boston, MA. I'm looking for more information on how MLS data. Specifically, where the data is stored and how it is accessed.

I googled around and found surpisingly little. I'm inclined to think that there is a big market for new "web 2.0" style software to consume and analyze MLS data.

Any help is appreciated.

Thank you,
Paul Stewart

[abrahamchaffin]

Hey Paul,

I deal in IDX Solutions which stands for Internet Data Xchange and it is the mechanism that allows you to access the MLS data and put it directly on your web site. Maybe IDX is what you are looking for...

[termy]

Thanks for responding. Is IDX a subscription-based service? Where can I find more (hopefully technical) information on it?

[abrahamchaffin]

IDX is a service provided by local MLS's. The technical information would come directly from the MLS. Generally they use an FTP data feed that includes csvs with all the listings' information and jpg images. You transfer the data parse it into your database(s) and then create your mechanism to read the data. The information is generally updated daily and new images are made available each day as well. Hope this helps.

[HHI Golf Guy]

There is no standardization for IDX. Each local Association of Realtors decides what delivery system they will use for IDX, and most are proprietary systems.

[termy]

This definitely helps. It sounds like the IDX protocol could be vastly improved. Transferring data via FTP is stone-age. :)

Any idea who I could pitch some ideas to?

IDX is a service provided by local MLS's. The technical information would come directly from the MLS. Generally they use an FTP data feed that includes csvs with all the listings' information and jpg images. You transfer the data parse it into your database(s) and then create your mechanism to read the data. The information is generally updated daily and new images are made available each day as well. Hope this helps.

[termy]

Would anyone be willing to send me an export of the schema with some test records?

There is no standardization for IDX. Each local Association of Realtors decides what delivery system they will use for IDX, and most are proprietary systems.

[abrahamchaffin]

RETS is the attempt at a standardized transfer method - though a lot of MLS's don't use it and personally I think it is terrible plus there is virtually no support. Google rets or go to http://www.rets.org/ - your looking at a lot to chew if your wanting to standardize the industry :eek: but maybe you have super powers - contact NAR.

[HHI Golf Guy]

As I stated, their is no standardization, nor is there a single entity that controls IDX protocols. You would need to work with each of the tens of thousands of MLS boards individually.

While some MLS organizations will let you format the outgoing data stream to suit your own look and feel, you will need to pay a fee to do so. Many MLS boards won't let you touch their outgoing data.

As far as the ability to make changes to upload data, I would say that your chances of accomplishing that are almost nil. There are too many legalities involved in the posting of real estate listsings (federal. state, and local). That's why it's contolled by the local MLS boards.

[HHI Golf Guy]

Would anyone be willing to send me an export of the schema with some test records?

If an agent does send you info, no doubt they would be violating their own MLS agreement and risk severe penalties for themselves AND their broker.

[termy]

I have plenty of energy and a penchant for useful software. I'm also in the market for a house and haven't been very impressed with the MLS enabled web sites that I've stumbled upon.

[termy]

It sounds like there is lots of potential for thinking outside of the box. ;) Where do the MLS boards get their data?

If an agent does send you info, no doubt they would be violating their own MLS agreement and risk severe penalties for themselves AND their broker.

[HHI Golf Guy]

I have plenty of energy and a penchant for useful software. I'm also in the market for a house and haven't been very impressed with the MLS enabled web sites that I've stumbled upon.

You're right - most do stink. But getting a standardized MLS protocol or getting most MLS boards to listen to your ideas is like asking the IRS to simplify the tax code.

[abrahamchaffin]

Where do the MLS boards get their data?
MLS - is multiple listing service - this is a place where Realtors can maintain their information and view other listings in the area. So the information is directly input by the Listing agents - it's primary function is to let selling agents know what is available.

[HHI Golf Guy]

It sounds like there is lots of potential for thinking outside of the box. ;) Where do the MLS boards get their data?

DUDE - it's proprietary to each local MLS board. They have their own databases, back end modules, and presentation system (usually a framed solution).