Sample of any MLS Feed file please..

[DaveSmith]

Hi all,
I'm new to MLS/IDX stuff. I've developed a simple Real Estate Listing script and want to integrate IDX/MLS solution.

I've gone through the posts on this forum and cleared a lot of clouds.

To start with I want to integrate importing of MLS feed file into mySQL db obtained from any MLS. I'll write script to parse feed file and then import into mySQL db. I'm using PHP/mySQL for my listing script.

Can I get a sample of "any" MLS feed file, not necessarily real, so that I can experiment with it.

Thanks

[REW Reed]

From our experience with IDX feeds and data, I would suggest creating your own data or waiting until you get access to data from the MLS you are building your product for. We have 60+ feeds for 80+ MLS's and each one is very different.

You could abstract them all down to what you want, but what if you want your display of it to show addresses and the MLS doesn't allow addresses?

[REW Reed]

And are you dealing with a flat-file FTP download or push? Or is it a RETS environment? Each of these radically change how you will be dealing with the data. I would contact the MLS you are going to be working with to find out before getting too far into the programming. Keep in mind too, that likely only Realtor members of the MLS can have IDX. Often only brokers are allowed feeds too.

[webmaster]

IDX feeds are not to be distributed under and circumstances to any non authorized vendor, agent or broker - you are not allowed (Nor is any vendor allowed to provide you with) access to even sample data from an IDX. You are going to have to wait till you get a feed, before you can see what it looks like.

[DaveSmith]

Thanks all for reply. Yes I understood that I can't get a real file without developing the site for agent.

My dilemma is I don't have any exp. in MLS and agents want to see a working sample of MLS before trusting on my abilities.

I can create a dummy file with the details, write script to parse it and import into mySQL but it is not going to win me work.

Most of the agents are having ftp download of MLS.

[Aaron]

Most of the FTP files are Tab, Pipe, or comma delimited files. Some are in better formats that others.
So if you can code a script to parse a delimited file - you should be fine. Might try Quick search for Sample IDX Data #5 looks promising.

Might help ya.

[DaveSmith]

Most of the FTP files are Tab, Pipe, or comma delimited files. Some are in better formats that others.
So if you can code a script to parse a delimited file - you should be fine. Might try Quick search for Sample IDX Data #5 looks promising.

Might help ya.

Thanks Aaron.
That is what I was looking for. Got a sample data file after search but that is not the end.
Need to break Enigma code

[MyREALTY.com]

Dave,

I concur 100% with the comments above - your selling proposition is around your display and tools (search, save, format, etc.) and not dependent on the 'data' per se.

I'd recommend you load up some properties 'generically' (i.e. 21 Jump Street, Anytown, USA) and photos and show your stuff.

Once they like what you are 'doing' with the data (your fake data) then you can get a file sample from their actual MLS and work through the myriad of details and rules, etc. that the specific MLS or board impose upon you.

We are currently offering IDX systems in over 150 MLS markets and every one of them is unique and different as far as data is concerned - however, our 'toolset' is consistent across the board, (pardon the pun) and that is what we market.

Hope this helps!
TM