In today’s digital age, many people rely on online platforms like Zillow when they are looking to buy or sell a property. One of the most common terms you will encounter while browsing properties on Zillow is “active.” If you’re unfamiliar with the term, it’s essential to understand what it means because it directly impacts your experience as a buyer, seller, or investor.
An “active” listing on Zillow means the property is still available for sale. This might seem simple, but understanding the nuances of an “active” listing and how it fits into the broader real estate process can help you make more informed decisions. In this article, we’ll explore What Does Active Mean on Zillow, how to interpret it, and why it matters for buyers and sellers.
What Does Active Mean on Zillow?
The term “active” on Zillow refers to a property currently for sale and has not been taken off the market or sold yet. An “active” listing means the seller still accepts offers from potential buyers. In essence, it signals that the home is available for purchase.
In real estate terms, an “active” listing indicates that the property is in the market and the seller is open to negotiations. This status allows potential buyers to view the property, attend open houses, and ultimately make an offer if interested.
How Long Can a Property Stay Active on Zillow?
The time a property stays “active” on Zillow can vary based on several factors, including the local market conditions, the property’s pricing, and the seller’s urgency to sell. In some competitive markets, homes can transition from “active” to “pending” (under contract) very quickly, often within hours or a few days of being listed. On the other hand, in slower markets, a property might remain “active” for weeks or even months if it’s priced higher than similar properties or in a less desirable location.
For buyers, an “active” listing can be an opportunity to make an offer on a property that hasn’t been claimed yet. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the status of a listing can change quickly, so if you’re interested in an “active” property, it’s a good idea to act fast to avoid missing out.
The Difference Between Active, Pending, and Sold Listings
To understand what “active” means on Zillow, it’s helpful to know how it compares to other listing statuses, such as “pending” and “sold.” These statuses represent different stages in the sales process and can tell you more about a property’s availability.
- Active: This status means the property is still for sale and available for offers. The seller has listed the home, and a deal has yet to be finalized.
- Pending: When a property is marked “pending,” it means that the seller has accepted an offer and is in the process of selling the home. The property is only available for new offers if the deal falls through.
- Sold: A “sold” listing indicates that the property has been purchased and is complete. The listing is no longer active on Zillow.
For homebuyers, the key takeaway is that an “active” listing is the only status where you can submit an offer. Once a property becomes “pending” or “sold,” it is no longer available for purchase unless it returns to the market due to a deal falling through.
Why Does Zillow Use the “Active” Status?
Zillow uses the “active” status to help buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market. Knowing that a property is “active” gives buyers the green light to inquire, make an offer, or schedule a showing. For sellers, maintaining an “active” listing means they are still open to offers and that the home is available for viewing.
The term “active” is useful for keeping the market transparent. It allows users to know exactly which homes are still on the market, which can be particularly important in fast-moving real estate markets. In some cases, sellers may keep a listing “active” even if they’ve received an offer to attract more potential buyers, especially if they are looking for backup offers.
How to Find Active Listings on Zillow
Finding these properties on Zillow is easy if you’re a buyer looking for an “active” listing. Simply use the search function to find homes in the area you’re interested in and filter the results by property status. You can specifically choose to view only “active” listings. This will exclude properties that are “pending” or “sold,” giving you a list of currently available homes.
Zillow also allows you to sort listings based on various criteria, such as price, size, and location, which can help narrow your search further. By using filters, you can quickly find “active” listings that fit your criteria and start contacting the seller or agent.
Is It a Good Idea to Wait on an Active Listing?
If you find an ” active ” home but are not ready to make an offer, you may wonder whether it’s okay to wait before acting. In a competitive real estate market, waiting too long could mean missing out, as “active” listings can quickly transition to “pending” status. Many homes in fast-moving markets can go from active to under contract in a few days, sometimes even hours after being listed.
However, in slower markets, you may have more time to consider your options. An “active” listing could remain available for a while, allowing you to decide or negotiate the price with the seller.
If you’re unsure whether to act quickly, it’s always a good idea to contact your real estate agent for advice. An experienced agent can help you gauge the market conditions and decide whether to make an offer immediately or take your time.
What Should You Do If You See an Active Listing on Zillow?
If you see a property you’re interested in marked as “active” on Zillow, the first step is to contact the seller or agent. You can inquire about more details, request a tour, or ask questions about the home. If you feel that the property meets your needs and are ready to move forward, the next step is to make an offer.
Even if you’re not immediately ready to make an offer, it’s always a good idea to gather as much information as possible. This includes looking at the listing photos, reviewing the property details, and understanding the neighborhood before making any decisions.
Conclusion
Understanding What Does Active Mean on Zillow is essential for anyone involved in the real estate market, whether you’re a buyer, seller, or investor. An “active” listing signifies that a property is still available for sale and that the seller is open to receiving offers. This status is crucial because it helps buyers know which properties are still on the market and allows them to make informed decisions about their next steps.
Whether you’re ready to make an offer, schedule a showing, or browse market trends, knowing What Does Active Mean on Zillow can help you navigate the real estate landscape more effectively. Using this knowledge, you can make smarter decisions and ensure that you are taking full advantage of the opportunities in the housing market.
