What is IDX / Broker Reciprocity?

IDX or Internet Data Display, is a program initiated by the National Association of Realtors which went into effect on January 1st of 2002. The IDX concept allows the members of an MLS system to display publicly, on their company or personal web site, all of the currently available properties for sale within that MLS system.

Internet Data Exchange, also referred to as "broker reciprocity," is a method of increasing the value of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). IDX also serves as the primary means of enhancing cooperation between REALTORS® to make the purchase and sale of real property easier. As applications of Internet technology to the real estate business have increased in number, quality, and acceptance by the public, many residential real estate brokerage companies have sought to use their online identities to advertise property over the Internet. There is no question but that advertising property listings on such online identities is an increasingly integral element in the prospecting and marketing programs of many REALTOR® companies.

IDX gives MLS participants the tools they need to advertise each other's listings on their Internet Web sites. Under IDX, brokers exchange consent to display each other's listings on the Internet. The essence of the system is that it is voluntary, reciprocal, and mutual. Since any participant can opt out of IDX on a blanket basis, it is presumed that those participants who don't opt out are willing to allow other participants to advertise their listings, except in such infrequent instances where a seller specifically prohibits the listing broker from sharing the display of a listing by other participants.

Despite the fact that brokers have always had the right to allow other brokers to advertise their listings on the Internet, the NAR IDX policy ensures more consistent and widespread access to this Internet marketing system under a set of consistent standards and regulations.

Why Use IDX/Broker Reciprocity?

1. All REALTOR members become empowered to deal with the real estate consumer of the future.

2. Members can fully market their services on the Internet.

3. Members can take advantage of the data brokers have contributed to the system.

4. Members can obtain and maintain first contact with the consumer in the real estate transaction.

5. Brokerage Web sites can become the best source of listing data and compete with other popular sites.

6. Participating brokers may display more data fields (like square footage) than many current Web sites are allowed to display.

7. When consumers visit the Web sites of reciprocal brokers, they will stay longer because the brokers have more listing data to offer.

8. As brokers become more innovative in offering on-line services, listing displays will be a critical factor in their success.