How to Get MLS API Access in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide for Realtors

If you're a realtor looking to integrate MLS listings automatically into your website, the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) provides access to its MLS data via a WebAPI. This guide will walk you through the process of requesting access and implementing the API for seamless property updates.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before applying for access, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• You must be a licensed real estate agent with REBGV, Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB), or Chilliwack & District Real Estate Board (CADREB). These boards share data, so a single connection with REBGV provides access to listings from all three.
• You need a website or application that will display MLS data in compliance with REBGV's policies.
• You must submit IDX (Internet Data Exchange), VOW (Virtual Office Website), and reciprocal data agreements to your real estate board.

Step 2: Request Access to REBGV’s WebAPI

The RETS system previously used for MLS data has been replaced with a modern WebAPI. This API follows the RESO Web API standards, allowing more efficient and flexible access to MLS listings.

How to Apply for WebAPI Access:

1. Contact REBGV’s IDX Department
   1. Email or call REBGV to request WebAPI access.
   2. They will verify your eligibility and ensure you have submitted all necessary agreements.
2. Obtain a Test Login
   1. REBGV will provide test credentials for development purposes.
   2. This login grants access to sample MLS data, allowing developers to integrate and test the API.
3. Develop Your Website or App
   1. Your website must fetch MLS data through the WebAPI and display it correctly.
   2. Follow RESO Web API standards to ensure compliance. (Learn more about RESO Web API)
4. Submit Your Website for Compliance Review
   1. REBGV will review your website to ensure it meets IDX/VOW rules.
   2. This process can take several weeks or months, so plan accordingly.
5. Receive Production Access
   1. Once approved, REBGV will issue production credentials for live MLS data.
   2. Note: Production login settings may differ from the test environment, requiring final adjustments to your integration.

Step 3: Implement Automatic Listing Updates

To keep MLS listings current on your website, your system should:

• Schedule API updates to fetch new listings regularly.
• Store and manage property images efficiently to handle large datasets.
• Ensure compliance with display and advertising rules outlined by REBGV.

For technical details on integrating the RESO Web API, refer to: RESO Web API Documentation

Need Help? Let Jazzed Technology Handle the Setup

Integrating MLS data can be complex, but we make it simple. At Jazzed Technology, we specialize in setting up realtor websites with full MLS integration, ensuring compliance and automatic listing updates.

Contact us today to get your MLS-powered website up and running!

Sources & Disclaimer:

• REBGV WebAPI Transition Guide
• RESO Web API Information

The information in this guide is based on official REBGV and RESO sources. MLS data access policies may change without notice, so always verify with REBGV for the latest requirements.