Skip to content
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

Understanding IntelliSearch: Building Smarter Listing Alerts and Saved Searches

A practical guide to Sierra Interactive's updated search interface, commingled MLS feeds, and keyword-based filtering

Most online leads do not convert right away, so relevant listing alerts help keep you top of mind until they are ready to move. IntelliSearch gives you more control over the listings you send, more flexibility in defining locations, and smarter keyword filtering to match leads with the right properties.

 

Three Things to Know About IntelliSearch

1. The user interface uses dropdowns and structured input fields. Searches are built using dropdown menus and structured input fields. The layout is organized to guide you from top to bottom: start with data sources, move through locations, then refine with property types and keywords.

2. Commingled MLS feeds are supported. If your website pulls data from more than one MLS region, those feeds are combined into a single search experience. There are some differences in how criteria appear depending on whether you're using a single feed or multiple.

3. Keyword search is a true text search. Rather than limiting you to checkbox selections, IntelliSearch scans MLS data points, property descriptions, and IDX feed content for the terms you enter. 

Setting Up a Search With IntelliSearch

Data Sources — Select your MLS feed(s), property status, and sold data preferences. ⚠️ Commingled feeds disable the View All checkbox option. Reduce to a single feed temporarily to access it.

Locations — Mix any location types (city, subdivision, school district, map area) in one search. Toggle AND/OR logic to control how selections interact.

Property Types — ⚠️ Selecting a category is a select all. Choose subtypes directly for precise control. Exclude types via the three dots menu or by deselecting during selection.

Keyword Search — Scans MLS fields and property descriptions. Multiple keywords split results into:

  • Exact matches (AND logic — all keywords must match)
  • Partial matches (OR logic — at least one keyword matches)

Choose a preference or exclude partial matches entirely when saving — recommended for qualified buyers.

Finalize — Sort results by Best Match, Days on Site, or Price. Exclude individual properties via the X on the photo. Name the search and set alert frequency under Save and Continue.

Best Practices

  • Start new leads on partial matches to maximize engagement while you learn their preferences
  • Graduate qualified buyers to exact matches once their needs are dialed in
  • Test keyword results before saving. Broad terms return unpredictable results
  • When unfamiliar with MLS criteria, reduce to a single feed first to use the View All option

FAQs

  • What's the difference between the commingled feed and a single MLS feed?
    A commingled feed combines data from multiple MLS regions into a single search. 
  • Can I mix location types in the same search?
    Yes. IntelliSearch allows you to combine cities, subdivisions, school districts, and custom map areas in the same search. Use the AND/OR logic toggle to control how those locations interact.
  • If I select the Residential category, does that include rentals?
    Yes, unless you've excluded rentals in your MLS feed settings or explicitly exclude them in the property type selection.
  • What's the best use of the keyword input field?
    Use it for features your leads care about that aren't consistently captured as MLS data points — things like "pool," "solar," or specific architectural terms.

Additional Resources