How to find MLS providers?

[skunker]

Hey folks,
First post here...looks like a great service for those of us new to the Real Estate webmaster field. I have a question:

My agent is looking for a CENTRAL TEXAS MLS. How do I find suppliers that provide this info? We were given an option from one firm, but my realtor wants to know if there are other competitors that provide this MLS at a cheaper price.

If someone can point me in the right direction that would be a great start. Thanks and I look forward to sharing and being a part of this community!

[RonnieG]

Check out the web sites of other top agents and brokers in your market and see what they use. Just remember that cheaper is not necessarily better. If the site's IDX functionality doesn't deliver what the consumer wants, and/or doesn't provide the agent with appropriate tools for managing and nurturing leads, then it is worth nothing. A more comprehensive solution that results in better lead retention and higher conversion rates will pay for itself many times over, and will be worth the extra cost.

[skunker]

Ronnie, how would I find out what other agents are using on their website? In their footer?

[webmaster]

You need to click on their MLS search, it will either be iframed or integrated into their site. Typically you will find a credit for work link at the bottom of each IDX page telling you who the vendor is.

You can also ask the board if they have a vendor list.

[RonnieG]

Ronnie, how would I find out what other agents are using on their website? In their footer?

The web site footer might tell you what vendor did their web site, but you would want to not only check out the provider as listed in their IDX search, if it is a vendor product, but also play around with it a bit to see if it is something you would want on your own site. I don't mind if other agents register on my site, as long as they let me know that they are doing so to check out the IDX functionality for registered users.