What Is Temporarily Off Market in Real Estate?

A Temporarily Off Market (TOM) status in real estate means a property has been removed from active MLS listings for a short period but is expected to return to the market. The listing agreement remains in place, but showings and marketing are paused for a specific reason—such as repairs, personal matters, or scheduling conflicts.

⏸️ Why a Listing Might Go Temporarily Off Market

  • Home is undergoing repairs or updates before relaunch.
  • Sellers need time for personal reasons or travel.
  • Seasonal timing — waiting for stronger market conditions.
  • Showing restrictions or tenant coordination delays.

The property is not listed as “withdrawn” or “expired”—it simply takes a pause while still under contract with the same broker or MLS listing provider.

🔄 How It Differs from Other MLS Statuses

  • Withdrawn: Listing has been pulled entirely and may require reactivation or relisting.
  • Expired: The listing agreement has ended without a sale.
  • Temporarily Off Market: Listing remains under contract and will return to active status once ready.

See our MLS status changes guide for more details on how these updates appear in your listing history.

💡 Tips for FSBO Sellers Using Temporarily Off Market

  • Communicate clearly with your MLS provider when pausing your listing.
  • Use the downtime to update photos, price, or property details.
  • Avoid withdrawing completely unless you plan a full relaunch.

When you list with Brokerless, your MLS entry can be easily paused and reactivated without losing visibility or history.