In July 2001, TREND launched
Broker Reciprocity, a program where brokers allow other brokers to display their listings on each others' websites. Broker Reciprocity, or Internet Data Exchange (IDX), a term more commonly used by the industry, has experienced great success, and many brokers in TREND's market and nationally license active data for display.
In view of that, TREND is giving BRP a new identity as IDX and, in the coming months will unveil new options for brokers who have these websites. IDX is a product that can create exciting marketing opportunities that benefit you and your clients. TREND is also unveiling a new logo for IDX, which you, as a subscriber, can post on your website.
Two Options: IDX and IDX Plus
Under the new IDX brand, TREND will continue to offer a way to display active MLS listings on your website, including property photos and now open house information.
However, shortly, you will also have the ability to subscribe to IDX Plus, a new option offered by TREND, which enables you to have active listing information as well as sold listing information for display on your website. Having the ability to post this additional information will give you new resources to attract and keep consumers on your website longer.
Competing with Consumer Sites
Sold data can be used on your website for a variety of purposes including home valuation tools.
Many
public websites provide home valuation tools and sale information to consumers without the benefit of your real estate expertise. Websites like Cyberhomes, Trulia and Zillow compete with your site for consumer traffic. They are popular, in large part, due to the information and tools offered.
In an effort to help you compete with these sites, TREND is releasing information about sold MLS listings exclusively to you, as a TREND member. This information can be used on your websites for a variety of purposes including searches for recently sold properties and home valuation tools.
Adding Sold Information is a Plus
Becoming an IDX Plus subscriber enables you to make your website more content rich and allows you to better compete with consumer-based sites. These sites typically get information from public records, which are often incomplete and not updated as frequently as MLS information. MLS listing data is more complete (it has more feature data than public records) and more recent (information on sold properties appears in the MLS before public records).
Upgrading is Easy
You must subscribe to IDX in order to purchase IDX Plus. If you already subscribe to IDX, you can easily upgrade to IDX Plus. More information coming soon!
Being a More Valuable Resource
Your ability to display sold information on your IDX website, combined with your professional expertise, will make you a more valuable resource to the consumer. This will also give you a competitive advantage!