Q.    What is the IDX?

A.    IDX enables MLS Participants to display on Participants’ web sites aggregated MLS active listing information.

Q.    Do I have to allow other Participants to display my listings on their web sites?

A.    No, Participants are free to withhold authority for such display – either on a blanket or on a listing-by-listing basis.

Q.    What happens if I won’t allow other Participants to display my listings on their web sites?

A.    If you prohibit the display of your listings by other Participants, you may not display their listings on your web site pursuant to the IDX program. Other Participants may give you permission to display their listings, but that permission would have to be sought and obtained separately from each Participant.

Q.    Can the MLS refuse to accept my listings if I do not permit other Participants to display them on their web sites?

A.    No. Participants cannot be required to consent to the display of their listings on other Participants’ web sites as a condition of participation in the MLS.

Q.    Can the MLS refuse to transfer my listings to REALTOR.com or to another aggregator of real property ads if I do not permit other Participants to display them on their web sites?

A.    No. IDX is distinguishable from such aggregations, and the right to advertise in that medium is not affected even if a Participant refuses to allow other Participants to display their listings.

Q.    Can the MLS charge a fee for downloading listing information to Participants?

A.    Yes, NAR’s IDX policy does permit the MLS to assess fees and charges for services provided to Participants.

Q.    Must the listing firm be identified when I display other Participants’ listings on my web site?

A.    Yes.

Q.    Why should we let our listings be displayed on our competitors’ web sites?

A.    Letting other Participants display listings on the Internet is a business decision each Participant must make, taking into account their duty to promote the best interests of their clients and to cooperate with other REALTORS, and their opportunity to use the Internet to better serve their clients and customers.