MLS RETS or API Data Feed
An RETS or API feed is a data connection that transfers listings data between a REALTOR’S® website and the Hive MLS. It will update listings as properties come on or off the market. Anytime a search for properties is online, you are using a website feature built with an RETS or API feed. Think about other real estate websites with this feature. As soon as you land on the home page, you see a search bar. And if you enter a search term, you see all the listings matching that term. The RETS or API feed is the data link that allows the website to display these listings and keep them up-to-date in an ever-changing market.
Starting August 1, 2025, there were some changes made by Hive to the PROCESS of how all agent websites receive MLS data. SourceRE will be only source to obtain your data feed, please read below. DEADLINE to cut over to the SourceRE feed is October 15th
Email: DATA@Hivemls.com
Old way vs the New Way
Before August 1, 2025
Starting August 1, 2025, there were some changes made by Hive to the PROCESS of how all agent websites receive MLS data. Prior to August 1, if a member wanted a website with MLS data, you would find a website vendor, submit paperwork to Association that authorizes MLS data on your website, pay Association an application fee for IDX Data (MLS) and pay BCAR an annual fee for IDX Data.
After August 1, 2025
Starting August 1-
All applications and requests for access to the MLS (IDX Data) will be handled by your website vendor and Hive – The Association is OUT of the mix.
The Association will NOT be assessing ANY fees for IDX (application or annual mentioned above)
This information was sent to ALL website/IDX vendors MONTHS ago, to get them ready for the transition. You may receive an email from your website vendor letting you know about this transition too. It is important to read any correspondence and follow any instructions that may be contained in the message – this may affect your website!
How to get your IDX Feed
What Vendors Need To Do: DEADLINE OCT 15, 2025
Step 1 – Complete the Required Document
If you have not yet claimed your SourceRE account, please complete this document:
👉 https://forms.gle/dA7D6dz85PVMR8BN9
This form is for vendors of Hive MLS to provide information required to complete the migration to Hive MLS's new data distribution platform.
Once submitted, SourceRE will send you a magic link by email.
Step 2 – Check Your Email for the Magic Link from SourceRE
- Check your spam/junk folder if you have not previously communicated with SourceRE.
- Use the magic link provided to set up your account.
Step 3 – Add Clients to Your SourceRE Account
- Add both your current clients and any new clients to your SourceRE account.
- Once added, all agreements will be generated electronically through SourceRE.
- All clients existing and new will sign new agreements that will be sent automatically from SourceRE
- Once your client signs the agreement, you will access to the feed. All agreements are resent automatically every 3 days for awareness.
·👉 Example: Add your clients to SourceRE
Who needs a data feed?
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.
IDX SmartFrame
SmartFrame delivers simplicity and affordability without sacrificing any bells and whistles. Perfect fit for any website.
IDX Wordpress Plugin
IDX WordPress Plugin is full of search-engine optimized content, powerful widgets, and of course, a responsive design.
IDX Feed Website
IDX Feed gives website designer the raw data. Allowing control and flexibility in designing a REALTOR'® website.
Broker or Agent Needing an IDX Solution?
Website (IDX) Vendors with Existing Data Access Agreements
BackOffice (FIU) Vendors with Existing Data Access Agreements
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.
