Can you search the Minnesota MLS? Due to technical and required proprietary distinctions, websites sponsored by Minnesota real estate agents cannot feature links that say “Search the MLS.” The search links that are available to the public are actually called “IDX” feeds. However, we receive our IDX feed from the Northstar Regional MLS. There are minor differences in the datasets found between the MLS and IDX systems. From a practical standpoint, however, consumers can use the IDX to find information about almost all homes currently listed by local real estate companies.
At IBR, we believe that Minnesota real estate consumers should have access to as much information as possible. Also, we believe that the information should be provided in the most useful and user-friendly format possible.
Our new IDX solution offers incredible detail, along with an easy, map-based user interface. The interactive map is incredibly fast, flexible, and easy to use. Available properties are displayed from a central focus point. Visitors can simply drag and drop desired search elements on to a page and interacting with the map display. Search results are displayed instantly on the same page as the map with no reloading. Properties shown on the map or on the listed search results can be clicked for full detail, including a mortgage calculator, a mini-map, an aerial view, school, and community information.
Instead of using an overwhelming display of buttons, pull-down menus, and text boxes, the visitor can use slider bars to specify sizes, price ranges, and many other parameters. The slider bars offer the consumer a quantum leap in ease-of-use. However, visitors can still use text boxes for entering search parameters if they prefer. The integrated map allows the user to quickly alter search locations, without typing in zip codes, city names, etc. Additional search criteria can then be added to the new mapped area. City markers display city data, including number of listings available, as well as median and mean home prices.
Unlike other IDX systems, our dsSearchAgent system offers visitors the ability to create specific RSS feeds for any search parameters they choose. In addition to the usual email updates, visitors can use their feedreader to receive the freshest property information. RSS feeds are more convenient than email, and allow visitors to view properties in “real time” and on their own time.
If you want to learn more about RSS feeds, check out this YouTube video.
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