Active under contract means a seller has accepted an offer, but the sale is not fully closed yet. The home may still show as available for backup offers or still have contingencies in play, like inspection, financing, or appraisal.

What it means

  • The buyer and seller have a signed agreement.
  • Some conditions still need to be met before closing.
  • The listing is often still shown as active so other buyers know it is not fully finalized yet.

How it differs from pending

  • Active under contract: the deal is in progress, and contingencies may still need to be resolved.
  • Pending: the contingencies are usually done, and the sale is basically waiting for closing.

What buyers should know

  • You may still be able to submit a backup offer.
  • It does not mean the home is fully off the market yet.

If you want, I can also explain how active under contract differs from contingent and pending in one simple table.