RE/MAX Unveils New Network
of IDX Web Sites

RE/MAX International this week unveiled its new network of broker IDX (Internet data exchange) Web sites. At remax.com, consumers will be able to view more than 2 million properties, whether they are RE/MAX listings or not. The IDX is an Internet-based exchange of property listings data among real estate brokers.

"We are very pleased," says Kristi Graning, senior vice president of IT and eBusiness. "We've been receiving some great comments, and our leads and traffic are both up."

The IDX is being introduced to RE/MAX offices in a three-phase rollout: First phase: the top major metropolitan areas (already completed) Second phase: identifying and bringing in the next level of markets (now underway) Third phase: continuing to identify markets to join the network (should be complete by the end of the year)

RE/MAX Offices will get to take advantage of RE/MAX lead management and lead generation system on Lead Street. "RE/MAX Associates will use Lead Street to enhance their listings—add virtual tours, photos or more information," says Jack Pearce, Broker for RE/MAX Valley Real Estate. "What's great about this feature is that RE/MAX Associates can also get consumer leads. Consumers are now shopping earlier, but taking more time to turn into serious buyers. Lead Street has tools available for these relationships to help identify which consumers are hot, warm or cold leads, and to help them stay in touch without too much hassle."

From the consumer's perspective, the network looks similar to an MLS. However, that's where the similarities end. The technical infrastructure is completely different from an MLS. This network is composed of broker sites that are laid out together.

In order to be in compliance with IDX rules, a broker has to power the Web site. For example, if you were to type in 'Youngstown,' you would land on an individual office, but would still see the complete listings for the entire area. A round-robin algorithm randomly lands the consumer at a selected office, but does so in such a way that each office in the market gets an equal number of hits. In addition, there are already more than 100 MLS’s working with the network. According to Pearce, “Since Real Estate is a cooperative industry already, and we have always shown other’s listings when talking with buyers, we believe that this network is really in the best interest of our members and our buyers."

For more information on this new feature that RE/MAX has to offer contact RE/MAX Valley Real Estate 330.629.9200 or visit the web: www.OurValleyHomes.com.

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Copyright © 2006 RE/MAX International Inc. 3/01/06