What Does Active Contingent Mean in Real Estate?

An active contingent listing means the seller has accepted an offer, but the sale is not yet final because one or more contingencies must still be satisfied. The property remains “active” on the MLS, allowing backup offers while the buyer completes inspections, financing, or appraisal requirements.

⚙️ How Active Contingent Status Works

In most MLS systems, “active contingent” means the seller has a signed contract, but the buyer’s obligations haven’t been fully met yet. Common examples include:

  • Financing contingency: The buyer’s mortgage must be approved (learn more).
  • Appraisal contingency: The home must appraise for at least the purchase price (see how this works).
  • Inspection contingency: The buyer can renegotiate or withdraw based on inspection results.

During this time, the home remains on the market as “active,” meaning other buyers can submit backup offers in case the current deal falls through.

🔍 Active Contingent vs. Pending

A property marked pending has cleared all contingencies and is simply waiting to close. By contrast, an active contingent listing still has conditions that could cancel the sale if unmet.

Learn more about next-stage status updates in our Pending Status Guide and MLS Status Changes article.

💡 What Buyers and Sellers Should Know

  • Buyers: You can still make a backup offer on an active contingent home — it might become available if the first deal collapses.
  • Sellers: Keep your home in top showing condition until the contingencies clear. If a buyer withdraws, you can quickly move to the next offer.
  • FSBO sellers: Clearly mark your MLS listing status to avoid confusion and maintain buyer interest.

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