Have you ever been browsing Zillow for your dream home and noticed a listing marked “Pending”? At first, it can be confusing — does it mean the house is sold, still available, or something else entirely?
I remember the first time I saw a “Pending” tag and thought, “Can I still make an offer?” If you’ve had the same question, this guide will explain exactly what “Pending” means on Zillow, why listings show this status, what it implies for buyers and sellers, and how it affects your home search.
Quick Answer:
“Pending” on Zillow means the seller has accepted an offer, but the sale hasn’t closed yet. It’s a temporary status showing the transaction is in progress but not finalized.
🧠 What Does Pending Mean on Zillow?
In real estate, pending is a status that comes after a seller has accepted an offer but before the deal officially closes.
Key Points:
- The house is no longer actively available for most buyers.
- The sale is contingent on inspections, appraisals, or financing.
- The property could still fall through if something goes wrong during the process.
Example in a sentence:
“I saw the property I liked was pending, so I decided to keep looking for similar homes.”
In short:
Pending = Offer accepted = Sale in progress but not closed yet.
📱 Where You’ll See “Pending” on Zillow
The Pending status appears on:
- Zillow property listings – prominently near the price or status label.
- Mobile app notifications – when tracking favorite homes.
- Search filters – some buyers filter out pending listings.
Other Notes:
- Pending listings can’t usually be purchased immediately, but you can monitor them in case the sale falls through.
- Realtors may still show the property in back-up offer situations.
🏡 Types of Pending Status on Zillow
Zillow sometimes shows different pending-related statuses:
| Status | Meaning | Implication for Buyers |
|---|---|---|
| Pending | Offer accepted, sale in progress | Usually off-market; watch for back-up offers |
| Pending – Show | Offer accepted, but showings allowed | Possible to schedule visits for backup or inspection |
| Pending – Inspection | Sale contingent on inspection | Buyer may cancel if issues arise |
| Pending – Financing | Contingent on buyer getting a loan | Sale depends on mortgage approval |
Understanding these variations helps you know whether a pending property is worth tracking.
🗣 Examples of “Pending” in Conversation
1
A: “Did you see the 3-bedroom house on Main Street?”
B: “Yeah, it’s pending now. Someone already made an offer.”
2
A: “Can I still make an offer on that condo?”
B: “It’s pending, but the agent said they’re accepting back-up offers.”
3
A: “Why does Zillow still show it?”
B: “Pending listings stay until the deal closes or falls through.”
4
A: “Should I keep looking?”
B: “Yes, pending doesn’t guarantee the sale is complete.”
5
A: “I really like that property!”
B: “Add it to your watchlist in case it becomes active again.”
🕓 When to Watch Pending Listings
✅ When to Monitor
- If you want a back-up opportunity.
- When the sale might fall through.
- If you’re comparing market trends and pricing.
❌ When NOT to Rely on Pending
- If you need a guaranteed purchase.
- If your financing or timeline is time-sensitive.
- When the listing is strictly off-market.
🔄 Related Real Estate Terms on Zillow
| Term | Meaning | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Active | Property is available | Ideal for buyers ready to make offers |
| Contingent | Offer accepted with conditions | Similar to pending but highlights conditions |
| Under Contract | Sale legally in progress | Used by MLS and agents |
| Off-Market | Not actively for sale | Can be sold or withdrawn |
| Sold | Transaction completed | Finalized sale |
🙋 FAQs
1. Does pending mean the house is sold?
No — it means an offer has been accepted, but the sale isn’t finalized yet.
2. Can I make an offer on a pending listing?
Sometimes — you can submit a back-up offer, depending on the seller.
3. How long does a pending sale take to close?
Typically 30–60 days, depending on inspections, financing, and legal processes.
4. Why do some pending listings stay on Zillow?
For visibility, MLS updates, and to allow back-up offers.
5. Can pending listings fall through?
Yes — issues like failed inspections, financing, or buyer withdrawal can cancel the sale.
6. Is “Pending – Inspection” different from regular pending?
Yes — it indicates the sale depends on inspection results.
7. Can I track pending properties for future opportunities?
Absolutely — use Zillow watchlists to monitor changes in status.
📝 Mini Quiz – Test Your Knowledge!
1. What does “Pending” mean on Zillow?
a) House sold
b) Offer accepted, sale in progress ✔
c) House available
2. Can a pending listing fall through?
a) Yes ✔
b) No
3. Which pending type is contingent on inspection?
a) Pending – Inspection ✔
b) Pending – Financing
c) Pending – Show
4. Can buyers still make offers on pending properties?
a) Sometimes ✔
b) Never
5. How long does a pending sale usually take to close?
a) 1–2 weeks
b) 30–60 days ✔
c) 6 months
📝 Conclusion
On Zillow, “Pending” simply means a seller has accepted an offer, but the transaction hasn’t closed. It’s a temporary status indicating the home is off-market for most buyers but could still accept back-up offers. Knowing this helps you track listings smartly, understand market activity, and avoid disappointment in your home search.
Monitoring pending listings can give you a strategic advantage, especially if a sale falls through and the property becomes available again.
