Step‑by‑Step Guide to Migrating an IDX Site from GoDaddy to Hostinger

Updated 2026-07-14 · Hosting Reviews

Why Move Your IDX Site to Hostinger?

Migrating an IDX site from GoDaddy to Hostinger can give you faster load times, better security, and lower monthly bills—all while keeping the powerful IDX integration that real‑estate agents need for listings and lead capture. The process is straightforward if you know what to look for: a reliable host, a domain, a WordPress install, and the right IDX plugin.

Step 1: Choose the Right Hosting Plan

For most real‑estate websites, a shared or cloud plan works well. Hostinger offers:

• Shared plans: $3–$15/month – great for new agents or small brokerages.
• Cloud plans: $9–$30/month – scalable when traffic spikes during open‑house seasons.
• VPS: $15–$50/month – for advanced users needing custom PHP or database tweaks.

All plans come with free SSL, a 99.9% uptime guarantee, and one‑click WordPress installs.

Step 2: Transfer Your Domain (Optional)

If you prefer to keep your GoDaddy domain, just update the nameservers to Hostinger’s. If you want a fresh domain, Hostinger’s domain search lets you buy a new one for $8–$12/year.

Step 3: Install WordPress and an IDX Plugin

1. Log into Hostinger’s hPanel and click Website → WordPress → Auto‑Installer.
2. Choose a theme that supports IDX (e.g., Real Homes, Houzez, or a lightweight theme like Astra + Elementor).
3. Install an IDX plugin such as IDX Broker or iHomefinder—most offer a free trial.

Step 4: Export Data from GoDaddy

On your current site, export:

• Database (via phpMyAdmin or a plugin like UpdraftPlus).
• All files (images, CSS, plugins) via FTP or the file manager.
• Any custom PHP or shortcode snippets you use for lead capture.

Step 5: Import to Hostinger

1. Use Hostinger’s Import feature in hPanel or the WordPress importer.
2. Upload the database dump and import it through phpMyAdmin.
3. Replace any old site URLs in the database (search & replace plugin helps).

Step 6: Test, Optimize, and Launch

Check the following:

• Page speed (GTmetrix, PageSpeed Insights). Aim for under 3 seconds.
• SSL certificate is active (https://).
• IDX feeds load correctly; verify a few listings.
• Lead capture forms submit and store data in your CRM or email list.

Once everything’s working, point your domain’s DNS to Hostinger if you haven’t already. Propagation takes up to 48 hours.

Cost Breakdown (Estimated)

• Hostinger shared plan: $3–$15/month (intro rates; renewals higher).
• Domain (if new): $8–$12/year.
• IDX plugin: $50–$200/year (many offer tiered pricing).
• Optional SEO/backup plugins: $5–$20/month.

Total first‑year range: $200–$400, depending on plan and plugin choices.

Speed and Security Basics

• Use a CDN (Hostinger offers free Cloudflare integration).
• Enable caching via W3 Total Cache or WP Rocket (free trial available).
• Keep WordPress, themes, and plugins updated to avoid vulnerabilities.

FAQ

Can I keep my GoDaddy domain while migrating?

Yes. Just change the nameservers to Hostinger’s and your domain will point to the new host.

How long does the migration take?

With a prepared backup and a bit of patience, most agents finish the move in 2–4 hours.

Will my IDX feed still work after the move?

Yes, as long as you update the feed URLs in the plugin settings and re‑authenticate with your IDX provider.