For real estate professionals in Greater Lansing, understanding the ins and outs of the Coming Soon status is crucial for ensuring compliance and managing client expectations. Whether you’re a seasoned REALTOR® or a new agent learning to navigate MLS procedures, this quick guide covers everything you need to know to stay on the right track.

📌 What Is “Coming Soon” Status?

The Coming Soon status is used when a property is being prepared for showings but is not yet available to be shown by anyone—not even the seller or the listing agent. This status is a temporary holding stage designed to help sellers and agents get everything in order before showings.

Key Points:

The default period for Coming Soon is up to 14 days. However, this can be shortened or extended as the seller needs. Status will update to active automatically at the “showing start date.” Listings cannot revert back to Coming Soon, this must be done prior to it switching to Active status. No showings are allowed during this time—not even by the seller or agent. Days on Market (DOM) do not accumulate while in Coming Soon status.

✅ Checklist for Listing a Property as Coming Soon

Before you place a listing in Coming Soon status, make sure the following steps are completed:

📝 Authorization Form Signed by the seller, agent, and broker.

🛑 No Accepted Agreement of Sale/Lease: Properties cannot go under contract while in Coming Soon status.

📤 MLS Upload: Listing must be uploaded to the MLS within 1 business day of a signed agreement.

🪧 Clear Marketing Messaging: All promotional materials (including yard signs) must clearly state that the property is Coming Soon and not available for showings.

✍️ Listing Contract Change: If going Active earlier than planned, the listing must be changed manually and a contract amendment must be submitted before the property is shown.

 

⚠️ Crucial Compliance Reminders

Breaking the rules can be costly—and damaging to your professional reputation. Here are some hardline policies to remember:

🔁 You cannot revert a listing back to Coming Soon once it’s moved to Active.

🗓️ Open Houses are prohibited before the Active date.

📛 You cannot use the language “no showings until” on any status.

🔁 A listing may be re-listed as Coming Soon only if:

  • It has been off-market for 90+ days,
  • It’s listed with a new brokerage, or
  • The property has been sold.

💸 Violation Penalty: Agents/brokers in breach of policies will receive a $1,000 fine.

 

Final Thoughts

The Coming Soon status is a valuable tool for building anticipation and setting the stage for a successful listing launch—but it must be used correctly. Keep this guide handy as a reference to protect yourself, your seller, and your bottom line.

For further details, reach out to the Greater Lansing Association of REALTORS®.

June 2025