IDX Compliance Made Simple
IDX data display has rules. NAR policies, MLS-specific requirements, and RESO standards all govern how listings appear on your site. HomeStar handles compliance automatically — so you don't have to think about it.
What is IDX?
IDX (Internet Data Exchange) is a system that allows real estate brokers to display each other's listings on their websites. It's governed by NAR policy 7.58 and implemented through agreements with local Multiple Listing Services (MLSs).
When a listing enters the MLS, the seller can choose whether to allow IDX display. If allowed, participating brokerages can show that listing on their websites — but they must follow specific rules about how data is displayed, attributed, and updated.
Why Compliance Matters
- Fines & Penalties: MLSs can fine non-compliant brokerages
- Access Suspension: Repeated violations can suspend your data access
- Legal Exposure: Incorrect data display can create liability
- Ethics Complaints: NAR ethics violations can affect your license
2024-2025 Policy Updates
NAR's settlement agreement is changing how commission information is displayed. Some MLSs are updating their IDX rules accordingly. HomeStar is monitoring these changes and will update display templates as new rules take effect.
Follow NAR updatesOfficial Resources
Core IDX Requirements
These requirements come from NAR policy 7.58 and are implemented (often with additional rules) by each MLS. HomeStar handles all of these automatically.
Listing Attribution
Display the listing office or broker name with every listing. Required on search results and detail pages.
HomeStar:
HomeStar displays listing broker/office from MLS data automatically.
Brokerage Identification
Your brokerage name must appear on every page where listings are displayed.
HomeStar:
Configurable header/footer branding displays your brokerage on all pages.
Seller Opt-Out
Sellers can opt out of IDX display. These listings must not appear on your site.
HomeStar:
Filtered automatically during sync — opt-out listings never reach your site.
Data Freshness
Listing data must be updated at least once per 24 hours (some MLSs require more frequent).
HomeStar:
Continuous sync keeps data current within 15 minutes of MLS changes.
Display Selection
MLS rules govern which fields can/must be displayed and in what format.
HomeStar:
Per-MLS display templates ensure correct field visibility.
MLS Access Control
Only active MLS participants can display IDX data. Access must be verified.
HomeStar:
Credential validation ensures only authorized brokerages access data.
RESO Standards
RESO (Real Estate Standards Organization) creates industry standards for real estate data. Compliance with RESO standards ensures your data is consistent, reliable, and interoperable across different MLS systems.
RESO Data Dictionary
v2.0Standardized field names and definitions for 1,700+ real estate data points. Ensures consistency across all MLS systems.
Learn moreRESO Web API
v2.0RESTful API specification for accessing MLS data. Uses OData 4.0 for querying and filtering.
Learn moreRESO Certification
vPlatinumThird-party verification that an MLS or technology provider meets RESO standards.
Learn moreHomeStar RESO Compliance
HomeStar uses RESO Data Dictionary field names and consumes data via RESO Web API from RESO-certified aggregators like MLSGrid. This ensures consistent data handling regardless of which MLS your listings come from.
Compliance, Handled
You shouldn't have to be an IDX expert to run a compliant website. HomeStar handles the compliance details so you can focus on serving clients.
Automatic Attribution
Listing office and broker names displayed on every property — no configuration needed.
Per-MLS Templates
Each MLS has specific display rules. We maintain templates for every supported MLS.
Opt-Out Filtering
Seller opt-outs are filtered during data sync. They never appear on your site.
Continuous Sync
Data refreshes every 15 minutes, exceeding the 24-hour requirement by a wide margin.
Audit Trail
Complete logs of data changes for compliance verification if ever needed.
MLS Policy Updates
When MLS rules change, we update templates automatically. You stay compliant.
Built for Trust
Compliance isn't just about following rules — it's about protecting your business and your clients.
Data Security
Encrypted storage and transmission. Credentials stored securely with industry-standard encryption.
Privacy Protection
Seller opt-outs honored. Agent contact info protected. Visitor data anonymized until opt-in.
Audit Ready
Complete data change logs. Export compliance reports anytime. Ready for MLS audits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about IDX compliance and how HomeStar helps.
Ready for Worry-Free Compliance?
HomeStar handles IDX compliance automatically so you can focus on what matters — serving your clients.