Navigating the real estate market requires a clear understanding of the terminology used in listings. One term frequently encountered on Zillow, one of the premier real estate platforms, is “Active.” This status is crucial for buyers and sellers alike as it indicates the availability of a property. As a seasoned luxury broker with a decade of experience in FL, DC, MD, and VA, I, Avisha Kassir, will guide you through what “Active” means on Zillow, why it matters, and its implications for all parties involved.

What Does “Active” Mean?

“Active” status on Zillow denotes that the property is currently available for sale. This means the seller has listed the property and is open to receiving offers from potential buyers. Unlike statuses such as “Pending” or “Contingent,” an “Active” listing indicates there are no accepted offers or pending conditions that need to be fulfilled before the sale can proceed.

Key Points to Understand:

1. Availability: The property is on the market and open for showings and offers.
2. No Accepted Offers: The seller is ready to consider new bids as there are no accepted offers yet.
3. Marketing: The listing is being actively marketed by the seller’s agent.

Why Does “Active” Status Matter?

For Buyers:

1. Opportunity to Act: An “Active” status means you have the opportunity to view the property and submit an offer. If you’re serious about buying, this is the time to act before someone else does.
2. Competitive Advantage: Knowing a property is active allows you to gauge your competition. Acting quickly is essential, especially in a competitive market where properties don’t stay active for long.
3. Flexibility in Negotiation: With an “Active” listing, there’s potential for negotiation. You can submit an offer with favorable terms, knowing the seller is still considering options.

For Sellers:

1. Maximum Exposure: An “Active” status ensures your property is visible to a wide range of potential buyers, helping attract more offers and potentially a higher selling price.
2. Market Interest: Tracking interest and showings of an “Active” property provides valuable feedback and data to the seller and their agent.
3. Adjustments: If an “Active” property isn’t receiving the desired interest, the seller can adjust the listing price, marketing strategy, or property details to attract more buyers.

Other Zillow Statuses and How They Differ

Understanding the difference between “Active” and other statuses is crucial for navigating Zillow effectively. Here are a few other common statuses:

Active Under Contract

“Active Under Contract” means the seller has accepted an offer, but the property is still being shown and can accept backup offers. This status often indicates the sale is contingent on certain conditions being met.

Pending

“Pending” status means the seller has accepted an offer and all contingencies have been addressed. The property is in the final stages before the sale is completed and is no longer being shown to other potential buyers.

Contingent

“Contingent” indicates the seller has accepted an offer, but the sale is contingent upon certain conditions being met, such as the buyer securing financing or a satisfactory home inspection. The property can still be shown, and backup offers can be made.

Off Market

“Off Market” means the property is no longer listed for sale on Zillow. This could be due to the seller withdrawing the listing, the property being sold, or the listing period expiring.

Sold

“Sold” status indicates the property has been sold and is no longer available. This is the final status indicating a completed transaction.

How to Search for Active Listings on Zillow

Zillow offers several filters and search options to help you find “Active” listings. Here’s how you can tailor your search:

1. Use Filters: On the Zillow search page, use the “For Sale” filter and ensure only “Active” listings are selected. You can also filter by price range, property type, and location.
2. Saved Searches: Create and save searches to get alerts when new “Active” listings that meet your criteria are posted.
3. Map Search: Utilize the map feature to visually locate “Active” listings in your desired area.

Tips for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers:

1. Stay Alert: Set up notifications for new “Active” listings in your desired area and price range.
2. Be Prepared: Have your financing and pre-approval ready to move quickly on an “Active” property.
3. Work with an Agent: A real estate agent can help you navigate the market, schedule showings, and make competitive offers.

For Sellers:

1. Market Effectively: Ensure your listing is appealing with high-quality photos and a compelling description.
2. Price Competitively: Set a realistic price based on market conditions to attract serious buyers.
3. Stay Flexible: Be open to showings and adjust your strategy based on market feedback.

Conclusion

The “Active” status on Zillow is a critical piece of information for both buyers and sellers. It signifies an available property ready for offers and negotiations. For buyers, this is the moment to act quickly and decisively. For sellers, it’s a time to maximize exposure and attract the best possible offers. Understanding this status, along with other common Zillow statuses, can empower you to make informed decisions in your real estate journey. Whether you’re buying or selling, staying informed and proactive will help you achieve your real estate goals effectively.