What Does Active Mean in Real Estate?

Real estate transactions involve specific listing statuses that communicate a property’s availability and contractual standing. These statuses are standardized within Multiple Listing Services (MLS), providing clarity for all parties involved in a sale.

Understanding “Active”

An “Active” status indicates a property is currently available for sale. The home is open for showings, and the seller is accepting offers from potential buyers. An active listing has not yet gone under contract, signaling it is genuinely on the market and ready for purchase. Sellers are seeking buyers and prepared to negotiate terms.

This status confirms the property’s information is current and available for viewing. It represents a primary opportunity for buyers to explore and submit offers. For sellers, an active listing communicates their intent to sell and availability to the broader market.

Distinguishing Other Listing Statuses

While “Active” signifies availability, other listing statuses denote different stages in the sales process. “Pending” status means the seller has accepted an offer, and the property is under contract, with contingencies typically met. The sale progresses towards closing, and the listing is generally no longer considered active for new offers. Sellers might still consider backup offers even when a property is pending.

“Contingent” status also indicates an accepted offer, but the sale depends on specific conditions being met. These conditions, or contingencies, might include the buyer securing financing, a satisfactory home inspection, or the sale of the buyer’s current home. Unlike a standard “Pending” status, properties listed as contingent may still be shown to other potential buyers, and sellers may accept backup offers in case the initial deal falls through due to unfulfilled conditions.

A “Sold” or “Closed” status confirms the property sale is complete, with ownership transferred from seller to buyer. All financial and legal requirements have been finalized, and the property is no longer on the market.

When a property is “Withdrawn,” the seller has temporarily removed it from the market, but the listing agreement with the agent remains active. It is not actively marketed or shown, but could return to “Active” status without a new agreement. An “Expired” status means the listing agreement between the seller and agent ended without a sale. The property is no longer marketed through the MLS, and the seller may relist or remove it entirely.

Navigating Listings as a Buyer or Seller

For buyers, “Active” listings represent primary opportunities for making offers and scheduling showings. Encountering a “Contingent” or “Pending” listing does not always mean a dead end; buyers may still inquire about submitting a backup offer, especially for contingent properties. A real estate agent helps interpret each status and determine the appropriate course of action.

Sellers benefit from understanding these statuses to manage their property’s market presence. An “Active” status ensures maximum visibility and communicates full availability. If an offer is accepted, deciding between “Contingent” or “Pending” involves weighing the accepted offer’s security against entertaining backup offers or continuing showings. Keeping statuses updated accurately reflects availability and helps attract buyer interest, guided by the listing agent’s expertise.