MLS news: Soon no need to run Windows anymore! MAC users will likely have native MLS access…
During a recent conversation with a MarketLinx representative on the subject of MLS access and the limitations impose by Internet Explorer, the MarketLinx representative said and I quote “we are developing a solution that will allow native MLS access from virtually any platform or browser, including Mac OSX, Safari, Firefox, Chrome, etc. The first Beta installation is happening this spring; rollout to the majority of our MLS customers should begin around the end of the year 2010. Depending on where Southeast Florida MLS falls in the installation schedule, you may not see it until late winter or spring 2011. And that is assuming there are no major hiccups between now and then. That said, this is a very high priority project for MarketLinx, so we’ll be doing our best to stick to the schedule.”
Once these changes become available, it means that no longer you will need to run Windows in order to access the MLS.
As of today the only way to access the MLS is using Windows Internet Explorer application. If you are using a Mac, you first need to install Parallels or VM Fusion software, which allows you to run the Windows operating system (XP or Windows 7). Then of course you can run Internet Explorer and be able to access the MLS. You can also purchase a copy of Crossover software which allows you to run Internet Explorer 6.0 or 7.0 beta. I have tested all of the above solutions and find that Parallels running Windows XP a reasonable combination. But no as a simple, reliable and efficient as running a native Mac application.
Well, hold tight MAC users, within a year from today or sooner your Windows frustrations will go away… You will have access to the MLS using Safari, Firefox, Chrome or any other browser of your choice.
For more information or if you have any questions or comments, please send me an e-mail to: michael@miamiflorida.com or call me at my mobile 305.450.0036
