Hi everyone, I'm new here and am searching for the answers to a few questions regarding MLS integration on a realtor's website. I am in Texas, and am looking to tap into the world of real estate web design.

I am interested in using RETSbond

Has anyone had experience with it? It appears to take current MLS info and download it to a mySQL database. One of the requirements before I set it up though, according to the flyer linked above, is a RETS username and password aquired from MLS host company/developer. I'm a little lost, and I guess I need some help finding out what MLS providers in Texas are RETS compliant. It would be great to be able to set up this RETSbond thing to get me data for all of Texas, but if I need to focus on a particular region, I would want info on the houston area and the austin area. Should access to whatever RETSbond needs cost me anything? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Totally a guess from an ex-Texan and current Chicagoan, but every local realtor organization has its own MLS program database. The local broker has to pay licensing fees to be able to use it or get services from the third parties. If your clients call the local realtor offices, they will give the number for the MLS office and they can ask them about prices, licenses, etc.

web developers (usually) cannot apply for data feeds, in fact I cant think of an instance where they have successfully. What you must do, is have a licenced "broker" in the area who is current with their board dues to apply for the feed, and set you up as their provider. You cannot resell any idx solution that you develop for a broker, each time you develope it you must go through the same application process.

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That is correct. Each MLS has it's own set of rules for data access, but generally speaking a broker in good standing in his board of realtors, and member of the Multiple Listing Service, has the ability to access the raw data in whatever format is provided by that MLS.

As an IDX data provider you enter into a 'three-way' contract between the Broker, the MLS, and you. For each of your broker clients you will need to submit the contract to, and be approved by, the MLS.

And while some of the MLS's may provide you with the IDX contracts, it is normal that you will have to work through a broker to see them.

I'm not familiar with the MLS in Austin, but Houston Assn. of Realtors is very friendly toward third parties and they do offer RETS access. Like the others said, you will only get access via a third party agreement through a broker.