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NCRMLS2

MLS RETS or API Data Feed

An RETS or API feed is like the bustling activity of worker bees, continuously transferring listings data between a broker's website and the Hive MLS. It diligently keeps the listings up-to-date by updating them as properties come on or off the market, much like how bees work tirelessly to maintain the hive. Whenever you use an online property search feature on a website, you are harnessing the power of the RETS or API feed, just like how bees harness the nectar from flowers. For example, think about other real estate websites that have this feature. When you land on their home page, you see a search bar. If you enter a search term, you can see all the listings matching that term. The RETS or API feed is the vital link that enables the website to display these listings and keep them current in a constantly changing market, much like how the bees keep the hive thriving in a dynamic environment.

It's important to note that data feed is a policy that governs which MLS data can be shared and displayed on a REALTORS® websites.

Data Feed

Who needs a data feed? 

If you're looking to feature MLS listings on your website, you need a place where visitors, including potential customers, can search for homes while engaging with your brand and accessing your contact information, without being bombarded by paid ads from competitors.

This is a must-have for agents, but the real estate technology jargon like IDX, RETS, API, listing syndication, and broker reciprocity can be confusing and overwhelming.

Hive MLS offers simple solutions for integrating IDX feeds into your website. We provide Framing/API/RETS data feeds to ensure that our brokers have different ways to receive MLS data for your Website (IDX), BackOffice (FIU), or Virtual Office (VOW).

IDX Feed

IDX is the most commonly used feed for REALTORS® websites.  This feed gives the website designer raw data and pictures, allowing control, flexibility and tracking of MLS data to your clientele.  All data given in an IDX feed is public data only. 

VOW Feed

VOW (Virtual Office Website) feeds are used for Business.  A VOW feed will have data that consists of what an agent will share with their clientele. 



FIU Feed

Firm Internal Use Feed (FIU) feeds are not for advertising, and cannot be used to display data on websites.  FIU feeds are used for Office use only.  This feed was commonly known as a Back-office feed.

Looking for an all-in-one website?

Have your own real estate website or building one from scratch and need your market's listings (IDX)? Live data options OR a beautiful, all-in-one website option are available.

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IDX SmartFrame

 SmartFrame delivers simplicity and affordability without sacrificing any bells and whistles. Perfect fit for any website. 

Learn More
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IDX Wordpress Plugin

IDX WordPress Plugin is full of search-engine optimized content, powerful widgets, and of course, a responsive design.  

Learn More
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IDX Feed Website

IDX Feed gives website designer the raw data. Allowing control and flexibility in designing a REALTOR'®  website. 

Learn More

Broker or Agent Needing an IDX Solution?

Website (IDX) Vendors with Existing Data Access Agreements

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BackOffice (FIU) Vendors with Existing Data Access Agreements

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Join In

If you are a Website or BackOffice (IDX/FIU) Vendor and are interested in entering a Vendor Data Access Agreement with Hive MLS, and be advertised on this page – please contact Data@HiveMLS.com. 


All other Website vendors will need to enter a Participant Data Access Agreement with the Broker and the Broker’s Association.  There is typically a setup and annual fee charged by the Association for these feeds.  Please have the Broker contact their Association for more details.

It's important to note that data feed is a policy that governs which MLS data can be shared and displayed on a REALTORS® websites.