http://www.noss123.com/
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has set policies that permit
brokers to show limited MLS information on their websites under a system
known as *IDX* or *Internet Data Exchange*. NAR has an ownership interest in
Homestore, the company which operates a website that has been given
exclusive rights to display significant MLS information. The site is
Realtor.com.
Using IDX search tools available on most real estate brokers' websites (as
well as on many individual agents' sites), potential buyers may view
properties available on the market, using search features such as location,
type of property (single family, lease, vacant land, duplex), property
features (number of bedrooms and bathrooms), and price ranges. In some
instances photos can be viewed. Many allow for saving search criteria and
for daily email updates of newly-available properties. However, if a
potential buyer finds a property, he/she will still need to contact the
listing agent (or their own agent) to view the house and make an offer.
The U.S. Department of Justice filed an antitrust lawsuit in September 2005
against the National Association of Realtors over NAR's policy which would
have allowed brokers to restrict access to their MLS information from
appearing on the websites of certain brokers which operate solely on the
web. This policy would also have applied to commercial entities which are
also licenced brokerages, such as HomeGain, which solicit clients by
internet advertising and then provide referrals to local agents in return
for a fee of 25% to 35% of the commission.
The DOJ's antitrust claims also include NAR rules that exclude certain kinds
of brokers from membership in MLSs. NAR has revised its policies on allowing
access on web sites operated by member brokers and others to what might be
considered as propriety data.