What's the difference between contingent and pending? Both mean the seller has accepted an offer. A contingent listing is still being marketed and the seller is open to backup offers, while a pending listing has an accepted offer and is no longer being marketed as it heads toward closing.
In the Phoenix area, you won't usually see the word "contingent." The ARMLS system uses two contingent-style statuses, UCB (Under Contract Accepting Back-Up Offers) and CCBS (Contract Contingent on Buyer Sale), alongside Pending. Here's what each means for buyers and sellers.
Data note: Status definitions and timing rules come from the ARMLS Rules and Regulations (last updated May 28, 2026) and ARMLS's own explainers on listing statuses. Contract terms come from the Arizona REALTORS Residential Resale Purchase Contract. Other MLSs and states may use different labels.
ARMLS Listing Statuses at a Glance
- Coming Soon: the seller has delayed public marketing through IDX and portals, for up to 30 days
- Active: published and being marketed
- UCB: offer accepted, seller still marketing for backup offers
- CCBS: offer accepted, but it's contingent on the buyer selling their own home; still marketed
- Pending: offer accepted, no longer marketed, waiting for close of escrow
- Closed: the sale is complete
- Expired, Cancelled, Temp Off Market: the listing isn't currently selling
ARMLS notes that UCB and CCBS are sub-statuses of Active. CCBS listings keep accruing days on market.
UCB, CCBS and Pending, Explained
UCB: Under Contract, Accepting Backup Offers
Under ARMLS Rule 10.8, a listing can use UCB instead of Pending when the seller gives written instructions to keep marketing to obtain additional offers. Sellers may choose UCB when:
- The buyer is still in the inspection period, which defaults to 10 days under the Arizona REALTORS contract
- Financing or appraisal isn't settled yet
- They want a ready plan B if the first deal cancels
CCBS: Contract Contingent on Buyer Sale
CCBS is for an accepted offer that depends on the buyer selling their current home first. ARMLS calls it optional: a seller with a sale-contingent offer isn't required to use it. If you're the buyer who needs to sell first, our guide on selling before buying covers your options.
Pending
Pending means the offer has been accepted and the property is no longer being marketed for sale. It's simply waiting to close. A typical Arizona closing timeline is in our guide on how long it takes to close.
Timing Rules Agents Follow
ARMLS rules set firm deadlines:
- Status change after acceptance: within 3 Days after all parties execute the contract (4 Days when a legal holiday falls next to a weekend), to Pending, UCB or CCBS
- Contingency resolved or contract canceled: reported within 3 Days
- Cancelled pending sale: reported within 3 Days and the listing reinstated immediately
- Sold: within 2 Days after close of escrow
That's why a listing you saved on a Saturday may show a new status by midweek.
Can You Still Make an Offer?
On a Contingent (UCB or CCBS) Home
Yes. The seller is still marketing, which signals openness to backups. A backup offer is typically written to move into first position only if the current contract cancels. Smart moves:
- Ask what's outstanding on the first contract: inspection, appraisal, a home sale
- Keep your offer clean so it's ready to step up
- Keep touring other homes in the meantime
On a Pending Home
You can ask, but the property is no longer being marketed. Ask your agent to call the listing agent before writing an offer. Deals do fall apart over issues like low appraisals or inspection findings, and a status that flips back to Active is your cue.
“I tell buyers not to cross a home off the list just because it's no longer Active. If you love a home in UCB, write a strong backup and keep looking. If the first deal falls through, you're ready, and the seller already knows you're serious.”
— Elizabeth Vijan, Tackett Team, eXp Realty
FAQ: Contingent vs. Pending
What is the difference between contingent and pending?
Contingent (UCB/CCBS) is still marketed; Pending is not.
What does UCB mean in real estate in Arizona?
Under Contract Accepting Back-Up Offers, with written seller instructions.
Can you make an offer on a contingent house?
Yes. It's typically a backup offer.
Can you make an offer on a pending house?
You can ask, but it's no longer being marketed.
Found a Home That's Already Under Contract?
I'll find out what's outstanding on the first deal, help you write a backup offer that's ready to step up, and keep your search moving.
Elizabeth Vijan | Tackett Team, eXp Realty
Scottsdale & Phoenix Real Estate
Let's Talk · Call or text 602-885-7752
Sources: ARMLS: Rules and Regulations · ARMLS: UCB vs. CCBS vs. Pending · ARMLS: New MLS status CCBS · ARMLS: Listing status use · Arizona REALTORS: Residential Resale Purchase Contract (sample)
Disclaimer: General information, not legal advice. Contract terms are negotiable and MLS rules can change. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Tackett Team, eXp Realty · Get in touch