IDX Update: ‘First Photo Only’ Restriction for Sold Listings to be Removed

Stellar MLS is removing the restriction that only allows the first photo of a sold listing to be shown on IDX websites. This rule amendment ensures brokers can offer the same display of MLS data for sold properties on their websites that third party portals can.

A revision to Stellar MLS IDX rule Article 19.9 to enact this change will be implemented on October 12, 2020. The revision to this rule is noted below:

Section 9: Designated Display of Data Fields

Listings displayed pursuant to IDX shall contain only those fields of data designated by the MLS. Display of all other fields (as determined by the MLS) is prohibited. Confidential fields intended only for other MLS participants and subscribers (e.g., cooperative compensation offers, showing instructions, property security information, etc.) may not be displayed.  In addition, Sold/Leased listings may only display the first image specified in the data feed. (Amended 10/2020)

The updated rule reflecting this change can be viewed here: Article 19.9: Designated Display of Data Fields.

While this change will impact Article 19.9 for the IDX display of photos for sold properties, it will not affect Article 14.4 of the Stellar MLS rules, which requires that all listing history remain intact within the MLS.

Stellar MLS has alerted IDX vendors via email of this upcoming change for sold listing photos displayed. If you have questions or concerns about photos of sold properties published on your website through an IDX feed, we recommend that you consult with your IDX vendor directly to review your display options.

If you have questions regarding this communication, please reach out to Stellar’s Data Services team at datadelivery@stellarmls.com or 800-686-7451.

Camille Smith Lai

Marketing Specialist