For Consumer's Sake - NIX to IDX

There is a direct relationship to seeking permission from the listing broker to publish and the trend to publish more listings in more places. Models like Trulia, Realtor.com and others respect the listing broker and their models allow the listing brokers/agents to access buyers that have interest in those specific properties.

Just like the old days - sign calls being directed to the listing broker with the sign, ad calls being directed to listing brokers that placed the ad and open house leads being managed by agents from the listing Broker's office. It all made sense, and the consumer was not confused by the advertising. But today? Why would you call American Airlines to ask a question about United Airlines flights? Try it and see what happens. Talk about the single biggest hindrance to improving the consumer real estate experience and IDX is at the heart of the discussion. Why would anyone call GMAC to ask about a Coldwell Banker listing? Why would you do this if you could go direct to the source?

When those companies that profess to understand the power of the Internet begin to structure their industry business models that prove they understand how to link the consumer with the best source for the most complete information on any one listing - the listing broker/agent - then stand back folks and watch the trend to share more listings everywhere soar!

--Ken Jenny, TranCen

All rights reserved. This content may not be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever, in part or in whole, without written permission of Inman News. Use of this content without permission is a violation of federal copyright law.