What Does Active, Contingent or Pending Mean?
By JC Pacific Corp Published 2026-09-01 Last professionally reviewed: September 2026
Active generally indicates a property is being marketed without a reported accepted offer, while contingent or pending statuses usually indicate an accepted contract at different stages. Exact definitions vary between MLS systems.
Active
An active listing is generally available for showings and offers, subject to the seller's instructions. It may already have interest or offers even though the public status remains active.
Contingent or Active Under Contract
This commonly indicates an accepted offer with one or more remaining contingencies or conditions. The seller may continue to consider backup offers.
Pending
Pending generally indicates the transaction has moved further toward closing and may no longer be actively marketed. However, pending transactions can still fail.
Sold or Closed
The transaction has completed and the listing system has reported the sale.
Verify the Status
CRMLS, for example, maintains specific listing-status definitions ( view the definitions ), but other California MLS organizations may use different terminology or rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I offer on a contingent property?
Possibly. The seller may consider a backup offer.
Can a pending home return to the market?
Yes. Financing, inspection, appraisal or other issues can cause a transaction to end.
Why does one website say active while another says pending?
Update timing and data feeds can differ.
If a property interests you, ask your agent to confirm its current status and whether the seller will consider another offer.
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JC Pacific Corp is an Irvine-based Southern California brokerage helping buyers navigate offers, escrow, and financing. Tell us what you are looking for and we will point you to current options across the region.
A note on legal advice: These guides provide general, educational information about California real estate practice. They are not legal advice and do not create an attorney-client relationship. Mortgage information is general education, not individualized lending, tax or legal guidance. For advice about your specific offer, contract, closing or financing, consult a qualified California real estate attorney and a qualified mortgage professional.