Listing status labels in the MLS tell buyers and agents where a property stands. Active means the home is currently on the market and available for showings and offers. It is the status buyers focus on when searching.
Pending, and the related contingent status, means an offer has been accepted and the sale is in progress but not yet closed. Contingent listings still have conditions to satisfy, while pending ones are further along. Sold, or closed, means the transaction has completed and ownership has transferred.
Other statuses like coming soon, withdrawn, expired, and canceled describe listings that are not currently available for one reason or another. Accurate status keeps the MLS reliable and helps everyone understand true market availability.