Companies like Zillow do not use IDX. Instead, they receive listings from various sources, including brokerage syndication, and in limited cases, from MLS® Systems, and aggregate them on their portal websites. 

The listing information on portal sites like these is often not as comprehensive or as up-to-date as IDX data. For example, studies have shown that upwards of 30% of the listings on Zillow were no longer for sale, and about 20% of active listings in MLS® Systems were missing on these sites.

Offering much more than just IDX search and listing information, Agent Elite helps turn real estate websites into marketing machines.

IDX and Zillow are two terms that are often used interchangeably in the real estate industry, but they are actually quite different. In this article, we will explain the differences between IDX and Zillow and why you should consider having IDX on your real estate website instead of relying solely on your MLS.

What is IDX?

IDX stands for Internet Data Exchange, which is a system that allows real estate agents to display MLS listings on their own website. IDX is a powerful tool that can help agents generate leads and provide a better user experience for potential clients.

What is Zillow?

Zillow is a popular online real estate marketplace that provides information on homes for sale, rental listings, and home values. Unlike IDX, Zillow is not a tool for real estate agents to display MLS listings on their own website. Instead, Zillow aggregates data from various sources, including MLSs, public records, and user-generated content.

What are the differences between IDX and Zillow?

One of the main differences between IDX and Zillow is that IDX is a tool for real estate agents to display MLS listings on their own website, while Zillow is an online marketplace that aggregates data from various sources.

Another key difference is that IDX provides more accurate and up-to-date information than Zillow. This is because IDX is directly connected to the MLS, which is the most reliable source of real estate data. Zillow, on the other hand, relies on a variety of sources, some of which may not be as reliable or up-to-date.

Why should I have IDX on my real estate website instead of using my MLS?

While your MLS may provide you with access to all the listings in your area, it may not offer the same level of customization and branding that IDX can provide. With IDX, you can display MLS listings on your own website while also maintaining your own branding and style.

In addition, IDX allows you to capture leads directly from your website. When visitors search for properties on your website, they can fill out a form to request more information or to schedule a showing. This can help you generate more leads and grow your business.

Finally, IDX allows you to provide a better user experience for potential clients. With IDX, visitors to your website can search for properties using a variety of filters, such as price, location, and features. This can help them find the properties that meet their specific needs and preferences, which can help you build trust and credibility with potential clients.

While Zillow can be a useful tool for homebuyers and sellers to research properties, IDX is a more powerful tool for real estate agents who want to display MLS listings on their own website, generate leads, and provide a better user experience for potential clients. By having IDX on your real estate website, you can differentiate yourself from your competitors, build your brand, and grow your business.