Have you heard the terms "MLS" and "IDX" in real estate and wondered what they mean?

Multiple Listing Service (MLS)

"MLS" stands for "Multiple Listing Service." A powerful marketing tool, the MLS is a centralized online database that allows real estate agents and consumers to search for listed properties via search and filter functions. Brokerages must be members of an MLS to access all property information from that MLS. That consolidated information includes relevant and essential property details like the address, price, property photos, and features.

The MLS benefits a seller by providing increased exposure for their property. Buyers benefit because they can obtain relevant information about all MLS-listed properties for sale. The MLS connects buyers and sellers so everyone can achieve their goals. IMPORTANT NOTE: When real estate brokerages aren't members of an MLS, you won't see any of that proprietary information on their website. MORE INFO HERE: How to conduct a successful online search https://bit.ly/3KZe0pI

Internet Data Exchange (IDX)

"IDX" stands for "Internet Data Exchange" and is the software real estate brokerages use to import MLS listings to their websites. IDX software hosted on a website allows a brokerage to populate listings from an MLS to their website instantly. In a win-win for everyone who uses it, IDX allows anyone to perform a property search and view all applicable MLS listings. IMPORTANT NOTE: When real estate sites don't utilize IDX, you'll find the listings on those sites aren't as comprehensive or up-to-date as the listing information on IDX sites. MORE INFO HERE: How to conduct a successful online search https://bit.ly/3KZe0pI

Listing statuses that will be exhibited on an IDX feed are:

• Active: This is a listing that is still available for purchase.
• Pending: What does "Pending" mean? https://bit.ly/3D9BZ3E

Lewith & Freeman Real Estate's real estate search site utilizes all relevant NEPA IDX feeds obtained through various MLS memberships to ensure that the public can access the most up-to-date information.

Since there are so many vital components of a real estate transaction that online tools can't accomplish, you'll need an experienced REALTOR® to serve as your guide and advocate. A well-informed and knowledgeable REALTOR® brings invaluable local knowledge to the search, so the combination of online tools and an experienced REALTOR® is the formula for success. ALL licensed professionals at Lewith & Freeman Real Estate are REALTORS®, and Lewith & Freeman offers Northeastern PA's Most Powerful Home Search at Lewith-Freeman.com.