One of the most important steps you can take initially with MAX is to Enable Texting and turn on the General Follow up Campaign.
This will help keep your name in front of your leads to help them remember you and allow you to respond quickly even when you are on the go from your mobile device.
Step One: Enable Texting
Log in to your IDX Control Panel and navigate to Communications > Texting > Enable Texting Now
Warning: Texting Activation Delay
Text messaging won’t be available immediately. The total process can take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks to ensure compliance and proper delivery across all networks.
Why Does This Take So Long?
To comply with texting laws and regulations, your number must go through an approval process that includes multiple verification steps. Here’s what to expect:
- New Number Rental: Once you complete your setup, iHomefinder will begin the process of renting your dedicated texting number.
- Identity Verification: Within 7 days, you should receive a text message requesting you to reply Yes to verify your identity.
- Compliance Review: iHomefinder will then submit the necessary paperwork to the texting service provider (Twilio) to ensure compliance with regulations.
- Final Approval & Activation: The texting service provider will review and approve the request within 3-4 weeks, at which point your account will be fully activated.
What Can You Do in the Meantime?
While waiting for texting to be approved, you can still start using the Texting / Email campaign feature. Just keep in mind that the texting function will not be active until the approval process is complete.
This process is essential to ensure that your messages are successfully delivered and comply with all required regulations.
Step Two: Download the MAX Mobile App
The Max Mobile app helps you stay on top of your real estate business from anywhere. You can manage leads, track activity, and stay organized right from your phone. It’s great for responding quickly to clients, building relationships, and keeping things running smoothly on the go.
For additional information, visit MAX Mobile App.
Step Three: Set Default Campaign to General Follow-up (Text & Email)
Once you have successfully Enabled Texting in step one, three new Automated Campaigns will be enabled under Communications > Marketing Automation > Campaigns. Navigate to Communications > Marketing Automation > Automations and set the Default Campaign to "General Follow-up (Text & Email)." This ensures that whenever a new contact is added to your lead list, they are automatically enrolled in the campaign and begin receiving messages immediately, helping you engage them without delay. If you need assistance with this step, just reach out to support@idxcentral.com.
For more information about campaign management go to MAX Campaign Management
IDXCentral Pro Tip - Update Your Leads
Review your contact list, old emails, and notes to identify anyone who might be interested in buying or selling real estate. Add them as new leads, and let the system handle outreach to engage them while keeping your name top of mind.
If you have a lot of leads from another source, you can import them in bulk if you prefer. How to Add Leads
Bonus: Improved Map Search
Take a moment to review your search page. If you're still using the outdated "form-based" search, where users must fill out a form before viewing listings, it might be time for an upgrade. Consider switching to a modern, user-friendly map-based search—similar to Zillow—that's more intuitive and preferred by visitors. This feature is included with MAX.
Curious how it works? Check out this Map Search Demo to see it in action!
