TIP#1

When will Microsoft be releasing Internet Explorer 7.0 and will it be compatible with MLXchange?

Microsoft has unexpectedly moved up the release date of Internet Explorer 7 and, as of October 19, 2006, the new version of the browser is available for download from Microsoft.com. Microsoft has also just announced it will begin pushing out Internet Explorer 7 through its Automatic Update service to all Windows XP users on November 2nd.

First American MLS Solutions (MLXchange) is committed to fully supporting IE7 and has been rigorously testing its MLS software against the Beta and Release Candidate versions of IE7 to ensure compatibility. FAMLS has already addressed the majority of issues uncovered by their tests, but it is very important that you be aware of the remaining issues they are still working on and how they may affect you if you use IE7 to access MLXchange.

Although Microsoft has officially released their new browser, we recommend that you do not use it at this time. Please watch for an announcement from MLS before attempting to use v7.0 with MLXchange.

If you have already upgraded, click here for known issues when using IE 7 with MLXchange and what you can do if you are experiencing problems.

TIP#2

Every time I conduct a search for a client that wants 1.5 baths or more, I must enter a minimum of "1" into the BATHS field and then a minimum of "1" into the HALF BATHS field.  This type of search will yield all of the homes that have 1.5, 2.5, 3.5 (or more) number of baths.  However, it completely omits the homes that have 2, 3, 4 (or any even number) of baths. Why is that?

The reason you get incorrect results when searching by the Full Baths and Half Baths fields is because, since they are indeed separate fields, a property must meet both criteria produce a match.  Thus entering criteria for Full AND Half eliminates any listings that had Full OR Half baths only.

When MLS was converting to MLXchange back in December of 2005, we recognized the limitations of searching using the two separate bath fields, noting that potential matches would often be missed. At that time, we added a new field to Single Family and Condo property types called "Total Baths". This new field combines both Full and Half baths, so you only need to enter in one value to find properties with a combined total of baths that you desire.

For example:  If you want to find houses that have at least 3 baths in any combination of full and half

1. Add the "Total Bath" field to your search using the "Add more search criteria" link located at the bottom left of the search window.
   1. If you use this field often, you can permanently add it to your search template by selecting "Save Template" from the "Action" list at the bottom left of the screen and follow the prompts.
2. Using the "Advanced Search Options" drop down list, select one of the following options:
   1. "Minimum" to find the matches that have at least the specified number  (or)
   2. "Maximum" to not exceed the number specified (or)
   3. "Between" to specify a range.
3. Enter in the value(s) that meet your search specifications

After all your criteria has been entered and you have added the “Total Baths” field, you should get the desired results.