Los Angeles MLS/IDX issues

[TrojanDLA]

I'm new to this whole website presence thing and new to real estate business in LA as well (previously worked in the Atl and OC real estate markets). I tried searching for any info on this issue but have been unable to find it in these forums, so I'll ask the question with hopes anybody has experienced this. I'm trying to create a website that serves the metro/downtown LA area, but have been told that the LA MLS ( www.themls.com ) was purposefully made not to work with IDX solutions. The public has full access to basic listing info by going directly to the mls website, http://guests.themls.com/ , and browsing for themselves.

Is there anyway I can have a programmer tap into that database for my website's use without the MLS' cooperation? Or is the MLS database pretty much off limits for LA area Realtors?

Thanks for any advice you guys have!

[webmaster]

I am quite sure there is a raw data feed for Los Angeles, I can have Reed our IDX co-ordinator follow up for you. It may be that it is Broker only which is a situation that occurs in a lot of MLS boards (Agents simply are not allowed to have access to a raw data feed) - if that is the case, you are pretty much stuck with the free access or a third party solution. Who is your board? And are you an agent or a broker?

[webmaster]

I just checked our internal search, and I am assuming you are with CLAW is that correct? If so, the message in the system to send to potential customers is

Acquiring your feed: The Broker of Record is the only authorized party to get a raw data feed. They must contact the Combined Los Angeles Multiple Listing Service at idx@themls.com for the required paperwork. If you need any help with this paperwork or the IDX process in general, contact Real Estate Webmasters.
Available for: Broker of record

But yes there is a raw data feed available

[webmaster]

There is more notes in my system

f no feed is available to "agents": The only option for non-broker of record IDX access is to obtain an iFramed solution from the Combined Los Angeles Multiple Listing Service. There is a basic free frameable IDX, a more advanced one with pictures for $199, and a premium one with multiple pictures per listing for $299. This is set up through a member's login at theMLS.com.

[webmaster]

Hope that helps - did you have any other questions?

[TrojanDLA]

Thanks a lot, that clears up much. Fortunately, I am a broker and this looks like an issue that can be resolved after all. And I've also called you guys at REW, just waiting for a call-back from Craig at this point.

[REW Reed]

And if you have any questions in the meantime about the features of the CLAW IDX, post here, email me, reed (at) realestatewebmasters (dot) com, or call and ask for Reed. I'm the IDX Coordinator and can answer most feed-related questions.

[TrojanDLA]

Hey Reed, awesome! I just spoke to Craig and apparently you guys should have no problem setting me up since I'm also the broker of record. I look forward to having the "best" website serving the downtown LA area! Lofty goal eh?

[REW Reed]

Not too lofty if you put your mind to it. Looking forward to talking to you about setting up a feed!