Why do other websites offer incomplete home searches?

Our MLS Search is the most complete & up-to-date MLS Search available in Northern Illinois.  The MLS stands for Multiple Listing Service.  The MLS is a database whereby ALL brokerages (REMAX, Coldwell Banker, Charles Rutenberg, Century 21 etc. etc.) list their available properties for sale. Why would most Realtor & Real Estate related websites offer incomplete & out-of-date information?  And why don't they search every available property in the MLS?

1) Simply put, it is easier and cheaper for them to provide you with an incomplete search.  The MLS has more stringent rules and charges Realtors & Brokerages more money to provide complete access to the entire MLS.  Legal contracts have to be signed, fees have to be paid & strict rules have to be followed for complete access.  The majority of the of Realtor & Real Estate related websites find it easier and cheaper to just provide you with partial MLS access (called IDX Broker Reciprocity).  This incomplete search could result in you missing out on your dream home!

2) Nearly all other Realtor & Real Estate related website searches will not provide you with complete & up-to-date information.  Many of the homes that show up on their PARTIAL search also won't identify the homes that are in "contingent" status.  A status of "contingent" means that the home is under contract -- an offer has been made, negotiated & acccepted between buyer & seller.  The logic behind this is that they want you to call them on that "contingent" home so that they can possibly get you interested in another home that is available.   

We want to help you, not confuse you or waste your time.  Our philosophy is to be as helpful and informative as we can.  We feel that our honesty, integrity and professional competence will result in a more successful and satisfying home buying experience for you.  Your satisfaction is our success and we look forward to making your home buying process an enjoyable one!

Once registered, you will have complete & unlimited access to the entire Northern Illinois MLS.  Your right to privacy is important to us and your personal information will never be shared, sold or provided to any third party, for any reason, ever.