AF IDX: Understanding how the Property search works

AF IDX offers different ways for visitors to search properties on your website. 

Search Widget

One way to offer your clients a way to search is with the Search Widget. This is a search bar that can be added to your website to provide a quick way to search for listings. This is a quick and easy way for visitors to start looking for properties. The search bar widget is typically located at the top of the website and allows users to enter key details such as location, beds, baths, and price range. It’s ideal for users who already have a clear idea of what they’re looking for and want to dive straight into the search without navigating through multiple pages. When they click search it's going to take them to the main search page.

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Main Property Search Page

For a more in-depth search, the main search page offers a more comprehensive set of options. Visitors can input detailed criteria, including location, price range, property type, number of bedrooms, and more. The available filters depend on the data shared from each MLS. The available options could be different depending on your MLS.

It provides greater control over filtering and sorting the results, making it perfect for users who want to explore properties more thoroughly and narrow down their options. The layout typically includes map views, filtering options, and the ability to sort results by newest listings, lowest-priced listings, or highest-priced listings. 

The True Map feature for AF IDX offers an interactive map that will continue to update the featured listings shown as the visitor moves the map.

There are 2 format styles for AF IDX's main search page. You can have your map on the top (Grid View) or the side of the page (Map View). 

Grid View:

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Map View:

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The Main Property Search Page is usually called properties so if you add /properties/ to the end of your domain you should end up on the main search page. 

 

VIP Home Search:

The VIP Home Search is a special feature for AF IDX users who want to offer their visitors a more flexible, keyword-driven search experience. Instead of relying on clicking through the traditional filters, this tool lets visitors enter specific keywords (e.g., "Los Angeles," "pool," "open floor plan," "3 bedrooms") to find properties that match these unique attributes. This is great for users who have particular features or qualities in mind but aren’t sure how to categorize them within the standard search filters. It still needs to be basic words that would usually be available in the MLS so it doesn't limit the search results. It allows a more personalized approach, letting users use natural language (AI) or specific phrases to uncover properties that align with their desires.

While it does a good job trying to match the filters in the property search page, if they use a very specific keyword or get a little too creative it may limit the search results or come up without any available listings. AI tools like this are great, but they are not 100% perfect in all situations. This is why we offer the traditional search page as well.

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The Main Search Page and VIP Home Search can be linked in your menus or added to buttons. The Search Widget is most commonly used on the home page but could be added to other sections as well. If you have any additional questions about how to use these different options you can connect with our support team at support@agentfire.com.