What is IDX? Broker Websites in Real Estate?

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IDX, or Internet Data Display, is the practice of real estate brokers exchanging consent to display one another’s property listings on the Internet. It’s a win-win for buyers, sellers, and brokers when everyone comes together to share listing information with the public.

How Do I Get IDX on My Website?

First, you need to choose a domain name and start a real estate website if you don’t already have one. Don’t overanalyze the domain name like I did when I first started selling real estate. If homesinyourcity.com is already taken, choose something that reflects who you are as a broker or agent.

Real Estate Domain Name Ideas

HomesinTempe.com
TempeHomes.com
HotTempeRealEstate.com
HotTempeHomes.com
theTempeAgent.com
yourTempeAgent.com
bestTempeHomes.com
HappyLifeHomes.com
TempePrideRealEstate.com
TempeHouses.com

And the list goes on and on. You can check domain availability here when you sign up for blog hosting.

Once you’ve started a blog, you’ll need to check with your local real estate board or MLS for IDX approval. My local board in Illinois required that I fill out an application and pay a fee annually. My managing broker also had to pay a fee and agree to terms.

How Much Does IDX Cost?

IDX is fairly inexpensive, depending on which vendor you choose. Your managing broker might even offer free access to their IDX provider.

Most IDX plugins range between $50-$100. You can also opt for a full website build through a company like EasyAgentPro, for around $179 per month for an agent site.

How Does IDX Work?

IDX pulls the data from all reciprocating brokers within your MLS to provide listings in your area to your clients.

Think of it as your own personal Zillow.

Is IDX Worth It For Real Estate Agents?

I personally have found it very difficult to beat Zillow on Google. If your broker is able to provide you with a special app with IDX to share with clients, it might be worth it to install IDX on your website.

But for many new agents, I’d recommend creating an informational blog with information on your cities, towns, subdivisions, parks, schools, etc.

You can even break it down and provide copies of restrictive covenants and HOA documents for each subdivision in your market.

While it takes time to build such a database, Google will start to see your site as an authority, and you will begin to move up the rankings. What’s even better is that people (buyers and sellers) in your community will start to see you as the market expert.

IDX is great if you can afford it, but at the very least, every single real estate agent should start a blog.

Learn how to start a blog here.

Melissa

Life is a collection of memories and experiences. There are ups and downs. I am so grateful for God’s grace and am on the journey to a renewed spirit, free of perfectionism. Perfection Hangover offers the sober truth – no filter.

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