Stellar MLS – “Coming Soon” Status Rules

Stellar MLS – “Coming Soon” Status Rules

🏡Stellar MLS – “Coming Soon” Status Rules

🎯
Purpose

“Coming Soon” is used to market a property before it is available for showings, while still complying with MLS Clear Cooperation rules.

✅
WHEN YOU CAN USE “COMING SOON”

Use this status when:

  • The listing agreement is fully executed
  • Seller wants to generate interest before showings begin
  • Property is not ready for showings (repairs, staging, tenant prep, etc.)

⏳
TIME LIMITS

  • Maximum: 21 days
  • Cannot be extended or renewed
  • After 21 days → must go Active or Withdrawn

👉
You cannot cycle back into Coming Soon to reset the clock

🚫
SHOWINGS & OFFERS RULES

During Coming Soon:

  • ❌
    NO showings allowed
  • ❌
    NO open houses
  • ❌
    NO virtual showings (live or recorded tours intended as showings)

✔
You CAN accept offers, but:

  • You cannot allow anyone to physically or virtually “tour” the property

📸
MARKETING RULES

You CAN:

  • Advertise publicly (social media, signage, websites)
  • Upload photos and details in MLS

You CANNOT:

  • Market in a way that allows showings
  • Circumvent MLS rules by privately showing the property

📅
REQUIRED TRANSITION

On or before the end of Coming Soon:

  • Must be changed to:
    • Active
      (if ready for showings), OR
    • Withdrawn

👉
If you go Active:

  • Showings can begin immediately
  • DOM (Days on Market) typically starts when Active

⚠️
COMPLIANCE RISKS (BIG ONES)

These are the common violations you’ll see:

  • Allowing even one showing during Coming Soon
  • Hosting a “sneak peek” open house ❌
  • Using video tours as a workaround ❌
  • Extending beyond 21 days ❌

👉
These can result in MLS fines and violations

🧠
BEST PRACTICES (Agent Guidance)

  • Set a firm “go live” date with the seller upfront
  • Use Coming Soon ONLY if there is a real delay in showings
  • If property is ready → go Active immediately
  • Avoid pressure from buyers/agents asking for early access

 

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