Links:

• IDX Contract.pdf
• IDX Q&A.pdf
• IDX Rules Regs.pdf
• Smart Framing Contract.pdf
• Smart Framing Program.pdf
• Manual Office Export Contract.pdf
• VOW Rules & Regs.pdf

Virtual Office Website (VOW)

Virtual Office Websites ("VOWs") are Internet sites operated by MLS Participants through which they conduct online brokerage. This enables the Participant to establish relationships and work with clients and customers on the Internet in ways similar to how real estate professionals interact in a "brick and mortar" environment.

Participants who wish to operate an on-line brokerage site need to follow the VOW Rules & Regulations. In addition, the Participant will need to request access to the MLS data through the IDX RETS download.

IDX Program

The purpose of IDX is to empower MLS Participants to work with the real estate consumer today and into the future. The MLS of Elkhart County is committed to the IDX program for the following reasons:

1. Allows Participants and their agents to fully market their services on the Internet
2. Allows the brokerage community to take advantage of the data Participants have contributed to the system
3. Allows Participants and their agents to obtain and maintain first contact with the consumer in the real estate transaction. Increasingly, consumers are looking to the Internet for information about real estate for sale.

The MLS offers two different methods for Participants to access the IDX data:

1. IDX Data Feed - offers access to the data in a database format. Allows for full customization of website. Requires payment of a one-time set-up fee and has an ongoing monthly cost. Usually requires the skills of a trained computer programmer.
2. Smart Framing - Smart Framing is an easy method to access data for display on a member's website. The Smart Framing offers limited customization. Requires a one-time set-up fee with no ongoing fees. Is easy to integrate into a member's existing website.