Northwest MLS Adds a New Listing Status: First Look

What changed

Northwest MLS created a new listing status called First Look. Sellers can use it before a home moves to Active. First Look starts on September 4, 2026. Every First Look home must still go into Northwest MLS and be shared with its member brokers.

What buyers may see online

During First Look, the seller controls how the home is marketed. Some sellers publish it right away on public home search sites. These sites are called IDX sites. They use data from broker listings. Other sellers choose direct marketing first. So you may not see every First Look home online at the same time.

What showings mean during First Look

The seller decides if showings happen during First Look. Some wait until the home reaches Active status. If showings are not open yet, ask your Northwest MLS member broker. They can check with the listing broker about timing.

What your broker can check

Your Northwest MLS member broker can check First Look activity inside the Northwest MLS system. This includes how long a home has been in that status and any price changes before it goes Active. This can help you understand timing before a home appears in public listings.

What to do before you wait for Active

Do not assume a home will appear publicly right when it lists. Ask your Northwest MLS member broker to check First Look activity for homes you like. Have them contact the listing broker directly. This can help you plan ahead with fewer surprises.

Source note

This summary is based on the Northwest MLS announcement, Northwest MLS Expands Listing Options, published August 31, 2026. First Look becomes available September 4, 2026.