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Understand XML listing feed

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Summary

Learn how to configure and manage REA XML feeds for property listings, including automatic delivery via FTP/SFTP and handling by third-party systems.

This article covers:

About REA XML listing feeds

Box+Dice generates a standard REA-format XML file for property listings. The system does not alter or customise the XML file for individual clients.

If your third-party system cannot process a standard REA XML file, Box+Dice cannot modify the feed. For compatible systems, Box+Dice requires the provider to supply FTP or SFTP details (username and password) to establish the feed.

Note: Delivery of XML files to the designated FTP/SFTP folder is automatic. Handling and processing of the file on the receiving system is the responsibility of the recipient’s developers.

File naming convention

Each XML file is generated with a timestamp-based filename:

REA_#{Time.now.strftime('%Y-%m-%d-%H_%M_%S')}.xml

Example: 
REA_2015-09-10-12_02_20.xml

This ensures every feed is uniquely identifiable.

How XMl feeds handles existing listings

All XML feeds include complete listing data, not only updates or changes, so updates overwrite existing records if necessary.

Listings are identified by the uniqueID field, ensuring correct replacement of existing property records. Management of previously uploaded files (deletion or archiving) is the client’s responsibility, while Box+Dice maintains a log of outgoing feeds for reference.

XML feeds delivery protocols

XML feeds are delivered securely using FTP or SFTP, following standard port and encryption requirements to ensure reliable transmission.

  • Use an FTP tool such as Ruby net/ftp with the DevDocs library to upload listings
  • The supported protocols and ports are FTP (21) and SFTP (22)
  • Both FTP and SFTP are supported
  • FTP connections use FTP/TLS encryption
  • The sending IP address to whitelist is 13.54.235.25
Note: Not all external websites can accept .xml files. Confirm with the receiving platform whether FTP or SFTP and XML file type are supported.

Listing tags and status

Specific XML tags indicate the type and status of a property to ensure listings appear in the correct category on external websites.

Relevant tags include:

  • business status
  • commercial status
  • land status
  • rental status
  • residential status
  • rural status

Full specifications are available in the REA Partner API Documentation – Listings Elements.

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