In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the meaning of “Active” on Zillow, how it affects your search, and how you can leverage this information to make smarter real estate decisions.
What Does Active Mean on Zillow?
At its core, “Active” on Zillow refers to a property that is currently listed for sale or rent. This means that the home is available for viewing and potentially for purchase or lease. In simpler terms, an “Active” listing is a property that the seller or landlord is actively marketing and is still available on the market. However, as straightforward as this term may seem, there are some nuances to consider.
Active Listings Explained
Active listings on Zillow are properties that are not under contract or pending sale. These properties are still up for grabs, and the seller is willing to entertain offers. In other words, the status “Active” implies that the listing is still open for negotiations, and interested buyers can schedule showings, make offers, or even initiate a bidding war.
Active listings are contrasted with other property statuses like:
- Pending: A pending listing means that the seller has accepted an offer, and the sale is in progress. At this stage, the property is no longer available for other buyers.
- Under Contract: Similar to pending, but with slightly more ambiguity regarding the completion of the sale. The property may still be available if the deal falls through.
- Off-Market: The property has been removed from active listings, meaning the seller has taken it off the market for some reason.
- Sold: The property has been successfully sold, and the listing is no longer active.
The Importance of Active Listings
For anyone searching for a new home or investment property, knowing the difference between “Active” and other listing statuses is crucial. Here’s why:
- Availability: An Active listing is still available for purchase or lease. As a buyer, you know that if you see a property marked as Active, it is up for consideration. You can reach out to the seller or agent for more details, schedule a viewing, and possibly make an offer.
- Competitive Advantage: Knowing the status of a listing helps you avoid wasting time on properties that are no longer available. If a listing has changed from Active to Pending or Under Contract, you can focus your efforts on properties that are still open for negotiation.
- Flexibility: Active listings often allow for more flexibility in terms of negotiation and offer prices. If you’re early in your search, there’s potential to make a competitive offer on a property that is still on the market.
How Zillow Marks Active Listings
Zillow uses a color-coded system to help users quickly differentiate between the various listing statuses. An “Active” listing will be clearly marked with the word “Active” in the listing details, making it easy to identify at a glance. This is a convenient feature for prospective buyers as it provides instant clarity on whether a property is still on the market or not.
How Long Do Properties Stay Active on Zillow?
The length of time a property stays “Active” on Zillow depends on various factors, including market conditions, pricing, and demand. Some properties may remain Active for weeks or even months, while others may quickly go Under Contract within days of being listed.
However, it’s important to note that many listings will automatically switch to “Pending” once an offer is accepted. If you come across a property that interests you, don’t wait too long to act. With a competitive housing market, listings can move fast, and an Active listing may no longer be available by the time you make an offer.
Factors That Impact the Status of Active Listings
Several factors can influence how long a property remains Active on Zillow, including:
- Market Demand: In a seller’s market, where demand exceeds supply, listings tend to move quickly. A listing may only stay Active for a few days before receiving multiple offers and transitioning to Pending or Under Contract status.
- Pricing: Properly priced homes are more likely to stay Active for a shorter period. Overpriced homes may linger on the market longer, while competitively priced homes are often snatched up quickly.
- Location: Properties in highly desirable areas tend to stay Active for a shorter time. Homes located in prime neighborhoods or regions with strong buyer demand often get offers within days of being listed.
- Condition of the Property: Well-maintained homes with modern amenities typically remain Active for less time than homes that need significant repairs or renovations.
Is an Active Listing Always Available?
While an Active listing on Zillow indicates that the property is still for sale, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is guaranteed to be available for long. As mentioned earlier, an Active listing is a property that the seller or landlord is still marketing, but an offer could be pending, or the seller might already have verbal agreements in place.
In some cases, sellers may even have multiple offers and are waiting for the highest bid. If you’re interested in an Active listing, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the listing agent to confirm the status of the property and check if offers have already been made.
Tips for Navigating Active Listings on Zillow
- Set Alerts: Zillow allows users to set alerts for specific properties or property types. This can help you stay updated on new Active listings that match your criteria.
- Filter Your Search: To avoid seeing properties that are no longer available, be sure to filter your search results based on the status of listings. This way, you only see Active listings, saving you time.
- Act Quickly: If you find a property you like that is listed as Active, don’t wait too long to reach out to the seller or agent. In competitive markets, homes can go from Active to Pending within days or even hours.
- Work With an Agent: If you’re serious about buying or renting a property, working with a real estate agent can be incredibly helpful. Agents have direct access to listings and can notify you when an Active listing you’re interested in has a change in status.
Active Listings and Their Relationship with Zillow’s Zestimate
Zillow is well-known for its Zestimate tool, which provides an estimated market value for a property based on various factors like location, square footage, and historical sales data. When browsing Active listings, it’s essential to keep in mind that the Zestimate is an approximation, not an official appraisal.
While the Zestimate can give you a rough idea of a property’s value, it should not be the only factor you rely on when determining whether to make an offer. Always conduct thorough research and consider other tools, such as a professional appraisal or comparative market analysis (CMA), when deciding on the value of an Active listing.
Conclusion
Understanding what “Active” means on Zillow is a fundamental step in your real estate journey. An Active listing indicates that a property is available for sale or rent and that the seller is actively seeking offers. Whether you’re buying your first home, investing in property, or simply browsing for fun, knowing how to spot and interpret Active listings will give you an advantage in navigating the market.
By keeping an eye on the status of listings, setting alerts, and acting quickly when you find a property you like, you can stay ahead of the competition and increase your chances of finding the perfect home. Always remember to consult professionals, conduct proper research, and use all the tools at your disposal for the best possible outcome