Get to Know First Look Listings
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What is “First Look”?

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On September 4, 2026, NWMLS will introduce a new optional listing status called “First Look”. The new status will allow listing firms to market a property before it is ready for the Active status. First Look resolves some practical issues related to RCW 18.86.130 (Senate Bill 6091) and provides additional options for sellers and listing firms.

The highlights of First Look include:

First Look listings are submitted to NWMLS like all listings and will be available to all brokers and their clients.
First Look is available for a maximum of 21 days.
First Look enables the listing firm to market the property to the public on member websites through the Internet Data Exchange (“IDX program”), but also provides the flexibility for more limited marketing at the seller’s request.
First Look will track days in the status and price changes in the NWMLS database, however days and price changes in First Look will not be available for public display on member websites.

Can There Be Showings During First Look?

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Yes! First Look gives the seller and the listing firm the option to allow showings.

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Four Scenarios for Seller’s To Use First Look

Seller’s can use First Look while still painting, staging, landscaping, to help generate excitement to the full launch or even catch buyers who don’t need all that extra work done and just want the house!
The Listing firm wants to build the listing story through photography, social media, and other marketing channels while preparation is underway. Previously, a home could not be marketed at all before being active on the market.
Perhaps the property is unique with few or no comparable sales and the seller and listing firm want market feedback before moving to Active. This could include testing the price, adjusting photos, getting feedback form showings during this period. Maybe everyone says the home is perfect, but there is one cosmetic piece that is turning people away.
For certain homes sometimes the listing broker’s team and firm need time to organize, finalize marketing, pricing, etc. But a seller needs to put their home on the market as soon as possible. First Look ensures that your timeline can be activated by being on the market while compiling the necessary items to help sell the home for it’s best value.