What Does Pending Mean on Zillow? A Simple Explanation For 2026

If you’ve been browsing homes online and noticed a listing marked “Pending” on Zillow, you’re not alone in wondering what it really means. 

For many buyers and sellers, this single word can be confusing and even a little stressful especially when it appears on a home you were excited about. 

Does pending mean the house is already sold? Can you still make an offer? And how close is the deal to closing?

In simple terms, pending on Zillow means the seller has accepted an offer, but the sale is not final yet. 

The home is in the middle of the transaction process, where inspections, financing, and other conditions still need to be completed. 

Because deals can still fall through at this stage, a pending home isn’t always completely off the table.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what pending means on Zillow, how it affects buyers and sellers, and what steps you should take next.

What Does “Pending” Mean on Zillow?

When a home is marked pending on Zillow, it means the seller has accepted an offer, and the property is now moving through the final steps of the home-buying process. At this stage, the house is no longer actively being marketed to new buyers, but the sale is not officially complete yet. In other words, the deal is in progress but not guaranteed.

A listing usually becomes pending after both the buyer and seller sign a purchase agreement. From there, the transaction enters what’s often called the escrow or closing period. During this time, several important tasks still need to happen, such as a home inspection, appraisal, title search, and final loan approval. Because these steps involve conditions that must be met, there is still a possibility that the deal could fall through.

Zillow uses the term “pending” based on information it receives from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or listing agents. However, the exact meaning of pending can vary slightly depending on the local market. In some areas, “pending” may indicate that all contingencies have been removed, while in others, it simply means the offer has been accepted but conditions are still outstanding.

This is why a pending home is different from a sold home. A sold listing means the transaction is complete and ownership has officially transferred. Until then, a pending status signals that the home is temporarily off the market, but not permanently gone at least not yet.

Understanding this distinction helps buyers and sellers set realistic expectations and avoid unnecessary confusion when browsing Zillow listings.

What Happens When a Home Goes Pending?

When a home goes pending on Zillow, it enters the most critical phase of the real estate transaction. This is the period after an offer has been accepted but before the sale officially closes. While the listing is no longer active, several important steps are still taking place behind the scenes.

First, the buyer typically schedules a home inspection. This allows them to identify any structural, electrical, or safety issues. If major problems are discovered, the buyer may request repairs, renegotiate the price, or even walk away from the deal. Next comes the appraisal, which is required by most lenders to ensure the home’s value matches the agreed purchase price. A low appraisal can delay or cancel the sale if the buyer cannot cover the difference.

At the same time, the buyer’s lender works on final loan approval, verifying income, credit, and financial documents. The title company also conducts a title search to confirm there are no legal issues, liens, or ownership disputes tied to the property. Once these steps are complete and all contingencies are satisfied, both parties move closer to closing.

During this stage, the seller is expected to keep the property in the same condition and avoid accepting new offers, though some may allow backup offers. While most pending sales do close successfully, this phase exists because things can still go wrong. That’s why a pending status signals progress but not certainty in the home-buying process.

Pending vs Under Contract: What’s the Difference?

The terms pending and under contract are often used interchangeably, but they don’t always mean the exact same thing. This is one of the most confusing parts of Zillow listings, especially for first-time buyers. Understanding the difference can help you better judge how likely a sale is to close.

A home listed as under contract usually means the seller has accepted an offer, but one or more contingencies are still in place. These contingencies might include a home inspection, financing approval, appraisal, or the buyer selling their current home. At this stage, the deal is still flexible, and there is a higher chance that something could derail the transaction.

On the other hand, pending often suggests that most or all contingencies have been met, and the transaction is further along. The buyer and seller are now preparing for closing, and the risk of the deal falling apart is generally lower. However, this is not a universal rule. Some real estate markets use “pending” simply to indicate an accepted offer, regardless of contingency status.

Zillow’s terminology depends heavily on how local MLS systems report listing statuses. In some areas, you may never see “under contract” at all; everything appears as pending. In others, listings move from under contract to pending as conditions are cleared.

For buyers, a pending home typically means competition is over, but it doesn’t hurt to monitor the listing. For sellers, pending signals progress, but staying prepared for last-minute issues is still important.

Pending vs Contingent on Zillow

The difference between pending and contingent on Zillow can be subtle but important, especially if you’re trying to figure out how secure a home sale really is. Both statuses mean an offer has been accepted, but they reflect different stages of the transaction.

A home listed as contingent means the sale depends on specific conditions being met. These conditions called contingencies protect the buyer and sometimes the seller. Common contingencies include a satisfactory home inspection, the buyer securing financing, the home appraising at or above the purchase price, or the buyer selling their current home. While a listing is contingent, the deal is still uncertain, and the seller may continue to show the property or accept backup offers.

A pending status, by contrast, usually indicates that most contingencies have already been satisfied or removed. The transaction has moved past the major approval stages and is closer to closing. This makes pending listings appear more stable than contingent ones, although the sale is still not final.

One reason this distinction can be confusing is that Zillow doesn’t always display “contingent” as a separate status. In many markets, contingent homes are labeled as pending based on how the local MLS reports the data. As a result, a pending home on Zillow might still have active contingencies in the background.

For buyers, contingent listings often present more opportunity than pending ones. For sellers, moving from contingent to pending is a sign that the deal is progressing smoothly toward closing.

Is a Pending Home Already Sold?

A common misconception among home buyers is that a pending status on Zillow means the home is already sold. In reality, that’s not the case. A pending home has an accepted offer, but the sale is not legally complete until the closing process finishes and ownership officially transfers to the buyer.

During the pending phase, several steps still remain. These can include final loan approval, appraisal review, last-minute negotiations, and preparation of closing documents. Until all these requirements are met and the closing date occurs, either party may still be able to walk away, depending on the terms of the contract.

This is why some pending homes unexpectedly return to active status. Deals can fall apart for many reasons, such as inspection problems, financing issues, or a low appraisal. In competitive markets, buyers sometimes overextend themselves and later fail to secure funding, causing the transaction to collapse even after weeks of being pending.

From a legal standpoint, a home is only considered sold once the deed has been recorded and the transaction is finalized. Before that point, the seller still owns the property, and the buyer does not yet have full rights to it.

For buyers, this means a pending home isn’t always completely off the table, though chances are slimmer. For sellers, it’s important to stay cautious until the sale officially closes. Pending indicates strong progress but not a guaranteed outcome.

Can You Make an Offer on a Pending Home?

Yes, in many cases, you can still make an offer on a pending home, but it usually works a bit differently than making an offer on an active listing. Instead of competing directly with the current buyer, you would be submitting what’s known as a backup offer.

A backup offer is an agreement that takes effect only if the original pending deal falls through. Sellers sometimes accept backup offers because they provide security and reduce the need to relist the property if the first transaction fails. From the seller’s perspective, this can save time and keep momentum in the selling process.

For buyers, making an offer on a pending home can be a strategic move, especially in competitive markets where inventory is limited. If the primary deal collapses due to inspection issues, financing problems, or buyer withdrawal, the backup offer may automatically move into first position. However, there’s no guarantee the deal will fall through, and buyers should be emotionally prepared to move on if it closes successfully.

It’s also important to note that some sellers choose not to accept backup offers at all, particularly if the current buyer is well-qualified and contingencies are minimal. In addition, local real estate rules and contract laws may affect how backup offers are handled.

If you’re interested in a pending home, the best approach is to work with a real estate agent who can confirm the listing’s status and advise whether submitting a backup offer makes sense in your situation.

How Long Does a Home Stay Pending on Zillow?

The length of time a home remains pending on Zillow can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the transaction, local market conditions, and the type of contingencies involved. On average, a pending listing lasts anywhere from 30 to 60 days, but it can be shorter or longer depending on specific circumstances.

Several factors influence how long a home stays in pending status. One of the biggest is the type of contingencies attached to the offer. For example, if the buyer is waiting to sell their current home, the pending period may be longer. Similarly, a home that requires extensive repairs or an appraisal that comes in lower than expected can also extend the pending stage.

The buyer’s financing process is another key factor. Mortgage approval, underwriting, and final loan documentation can take several weeks. Any delays in providing necessary paperwork or addressing lender requirements can lengthen the pending period.

In some cases, local real estate markets play a role. In hot markets, pending homes may move quickly to closing, while in slower markets, transactions can linger longer. Additionally, Zillow relies on MLS updates, so the status may appear pending even if some steps are still underway behind the scenes.

While a pending listing generally signals that the sale is moving forward, it’s not a guarantee. Buyers should monitor the listing, stay in contact with agents, and understand that deals can sometimes fall apart even after several weeks of being pending. Sellers should also remain prepared for potential last-minute issues before closing.

Why Do Pending Deals Fall Through?

Even though a pending home indicates that an offer has been accepted, not every pending sale makes it to the closing table. There are several common reasons why pending deals can fall through, and understanding them can help both buyers and sellers manage expectations.

One of the most frequent issues is inspection problems. During the home inspection, buyers may discover serious structural, electrical, plumbing, or safety issues. If the problems are significant and the seller refuses to address them, the buyer may choose to back out of the deal.

Financing problems are another major cause. Even after an offer is accepted, the buyer must still secure final mortgage approval. Unexpected changes in credit, income verification issues, or difficulties with the lender can prevent the loan from closing.

Low appraisals can also derail a pending sale. If the home appraises for less than the agreed-upon purchase price, the lender may not approve the full loan amount. The buyer may need to bring additional cash to the table, renegotiate the price, or walk away entirely.

Other reasons include buyer cold feet, last-minute changes in personal circumstances, or legal/title issues discovered during the title search.

While most pending deals do successfully close, these risks explain why a pending home is not a guaranteed sale. For buyers, knowing these potential pitfalls can inform whether submitting a backup offer makes sense. Sellers, meanwhile, should remain proactive and address contingencies promptly to avoid delays or cancellations. Understanding these factors helps both parties navigate the pending phase with realistic expectations.

What Should Buyers Do When a Home Is Pending?

When a home is marked pending on Zillow, it can be frustrating for buyers who are interested in the property. While it may seem like the house is off-limits, there are several practical steps buyers can take to stay engaged and prepare for opportunities.

First, buyers should confirm the home’s status with a real estate agent. Zillow updates can lag behind the MLS, so an agent can provide the most accurate information about contingencies, expected closing dates, and whether backup offers are being accepted.

Next, consider submitting a backup offer if the property allows it. A backup offer only becomes active if the current pending deal falls through, giving buyers a chance to step in without waiting for a completely new listing. Even if the deal closes successfully, having a backup offer in place can sometimes shorten the waiting time for similar opportunities.

Meanwhile, buyers should monitor the market and similar listings. Pending homes often reappear if deals collapse, and staying alert can help buyers act quickly. It’s also a good time to get finances in order, secure pre-approval, and prepare for fast-moving transactions, especially in competitive markets.

Lastly, patience is key. A pending status signals progress but not finality, so buyers should focus on staying informed, remaining flexible, and planning their next steps. Understanding the pending phase helps buyers make strategic decisions and increases the likelihood of successfully purchasing the right home when opportunities arise.

What Should Sellers Expect During Pending Status?

When a home is marked pending on Zillow, it indicates that the seller has accepted an offer, but the transaction is not yet finalized. While this is an exciting milestone, sellers should understand that several important responsibilities remain during the pending phase.

First, the seller must maintain the property in its original condition. Any significant changes or damages could complicate the sale or give the buyer reason to back out. This includes completing agreed-upon repairs and keeping the home clean and accessible for inspections or appraisals.

Next, sellers should communicate closely with their real estate agent to monitor the progress of contingencies, such as inspections, appraisals, and financing. Timely responses to requests or questions can help prevent delays or misunderstandings that might derail the transaction.

In some cases, sellers may also be asked to provide documentation related to the home, such as property disclosures, title information, or permits. Promptly supplying these documents ensures the deal stays on track.

Sellers should also be aware that some buyers may not close as planned due to financing issues or other unexpected problems. This is why it’s wise to remain prepared for backup offers or contingency adjustments.

Finally, while a pending status signals that the sale is moving forward, it is not a guarantee of completion. Sellers should avoid making major financial or relocation plans until the transaction is officially closed. Understanding the pending phase allows sellers to navigate this critical period carefully, keeping the deal on track and avoiding last-minute complications.

Why Zillow Pending Status May Look Different Than Other Sites

If you’re comparing home listings across multiple platforms, you may notice that Zillow’s pending status sometimes looks different from other real estate websites. This can be confusing, but it’s largely due to how Zillow collects and displays data.

Zillow primarily sources its information from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and updates provided by real estate agents. However, these updates aren’t always instantaneous. A home might have already moved from pending to sold on the MLS, but Zillow may still display it as pending until the next system refresh. Conversely, some sites like Redfin or Realtor.com may update their listings at different intervals, creating discrepancies.

Another factor is terminology differences. Terms like pending, contingent, or under contract may have slightly different meanings depending on the MLS or local real estate practices. For example, a home labeled pending on Zillow might still have active contingencies, while another platform could categorize it as contingent instead.

Zillow also sometimes simplifies listing statuses for clarity. Instead of showing every nuanced stage of a transaction, it may use “pending” to cover multiple phases of the sale. This can make it appear as though a home is closer to closing than it really is.

For buyers and sellers, the takeaway is clear: don’t rely solely on Zillow for real-time status. Always confirm with the listing agent or check the MLS directly to understand the home’s true status. Doing so prevents misunderstandings and ensures that decisions whether making an offer or planning next steps are based on accurate information.

Pending vs Sold vs Active: Key Differences Explained

Understanding the differences between pending, sold, and active listings is essential for buyers and sellers navigating real estate websites like Zillow. Each status represents a specific stage in the home-selling process, and knowing what they mean can help set realistic expectations.

An active listing is a property currently available on the market. Sellers are accepting offers, and buyers can schedule showings, submit offers, and compete with others. Active listings provide the most flexibility for buyers because the property has not yet entered a contractual agreement.

A pending listing indicates that the seller has accepted an offer, but the transaction is not complete. During this phase, the home is in escrow, meaning that inspections, appraisals, and final financing are still in progress. Pending status signals progress and reduces the likelihood of new offers being accepted, though backup offers may sometimes be considered.

Finally, a sold listing represents a completed transaction. The buyer now owns the property, and the sale has officially closed. Sold listings provide historical data for market analysis but are no longer available for purchase.

The key takeaway is that pending is the middle stage between active and sold. While the home is technically off the market, it is not yet fully sold. Buyers should understand that pending homes may still fall through, and sellers should remain attentive to contingencies and deadlines until closing. Recognizing these distinctions helps both parties navigate listings confidently and make informed decisions throughout the buying or selling process.

Common Misunderstandings About “Pending” on Zillow

Many buyers and sellers misinterpret what it means when a listing shows as pending on Zillow, leading to confusion and missed opportunities. Clarifying these common misunderstandings can help users navigate the platform more effectively.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that pending means the home is sold. While the seller has accepted an offer, the sale is not finalized until closing. Contingencies, financing, and inspections can still affect the outcome, so the home is not guaranteed to sell until the transaction is complete.

Another misunderstanding is that buyers can no longer take action. While it’s true that pending homes are off the active market, buyers may still submit backup offers in many cases. Sellers sometimes accept these as insurance in case the initial deal falls through, meaning interested buyers still have a chance.

Some people assume that all pending homes are equal. In reality, the meaning of pending can vary depending on local MLS rules or how Zillow displays the listing. A pending home may still have active contingencies or be closer to closing, so each listing should be evaluated individually.

Finally, many users believe that Zillow is always up to date. Data on pending homes may lag behind MLS updates, causing listings to appear active, pending, or sold inaccurately. Always confirm status with the listing agent to avoid misunderstandings.

By understanding these common misconceptions, buyers and sellers can approach pending listings with realistic expectations, make informed decisions, and avoid unnecessary frustration while navigating the real estate market.

FAQs 

When it comes to pending homes on Zillow, buyers and sellers often have similar questions. Answering these FAQs helps clarify the process and sets realistic expectations for everyone involved.

1. What does pending mean on Zillow exactly?
Pending means that the seller has accepted an offer, but the sale is not finalized. The home is in escrow, and contingencies like inspections, appraisals, or financing approvals are still being completed.

2. Can a pending home go back to active?
Yes. If the current deal falls through due to inspection issues, financing problems, or buyer withdrawal, the home may return to the active market. This is why some buyers monitor pending homes closely or submit backup offers.

3. Should I contact the seller of a pending home?
It’s usually better to go through a real estate agent. Agents can confirm the home’s status, explain whether backup offers are being accepted, and guide you on next steps. Direct contact with the seller is uncommon unless specifically allowed.

4. Is pending the same as contingent?
Not exactly. Contingent means the sale depends on certain conditions being met, while pending usually indicates that major contingencies have been satisfied. However, Zillow may label both statuses as pending depending on the MLS reporting.

5. How often do pending homes fall through?
While most pending deals close successfully, some fail due to inspection, appraisal, or financing issues. The exact rate varies by market and property type.

Conclusion

Understanding what pending means on Zillow is essential for both buyers and sellers navigating the real estate market. A pending status indicates that a seller has accepted an offer, but the sale is not yet finalized. 

Several steps such as inspections, appraisals, and loan approvals still need to be completed before the transaction officially closes.

For buyers, a pending listing doesn’t always mean the home is completely off the market. There may be opportunities to submit backup offers, especially if the current deal falls through. 

Staying in contact with a real estate agent and monitoring the market are key strategies to avoid missing out on potential homes. Buyers should also use this time to prepare finances, secure pre-approval, and plan for a fast-moving transaction once a deal becomes available.

For sellers, pending status is a signal that the sale is progressing, but caution is still required. Maintaining the property, promptly addressing contingencies, and staying organized with documentation are critical steps to ensure the transaction closes smoothly. 

Sellers should also be aware of potential risks, such as inspection or financing issues, which could delay or cancel the sale.

Overall, pending is a middle stage between active and sold, providing a clear signal that a home is under contract but not yet fully sold. 

By understanding the pending process and its implications, buyers and sellers can navigate real estate transactions more confidently, avoid common misunderstandings, and make informed decisions at every step.