What is DRF Status in Real Estate MLS? A Complete Guide for Buyers and Sellers

Introduction: Why MLS Status Codes Matter in Real Estate

When you’re browsing homes online or working with a real estate agent, you’ll quickly notice a series of status codes attached to each property listing. These codes—like Active, Pending, Sold, or DRF—aren’t just random letters. They carry important meaning about where a property stands in the buying and selling process.

One code that often confuses buyers and even new agents is DRF status in real estate MLS. If you’ve come across a property marked as DRF in an MLS (Multiple Listing Service), you might be wondering:

• What does DRF mean in MLS?

• How does DRF status affect buyers and sellers?

• Is a DRF property still available to purchase?

This guide will break down everything you need to know about MLS DRF status, why it matters, and how to navigate it as a buyer, seller, or real estate professional.

By the end of this article, you’ll understand:

• The meaning of DRF status in real estate listings

• How DRF compares to other MLS statuses like Active and Pending

• The implications for buyers and sellers when a home is listed as DRF

• Key insights from real estate agents on using MLS status codes effectively

What Does DRF Mean in MLS?

The Definition of DRF Status in Real Estate

In MLS (Multiple Listing Service) terminology, DRF stands for “Due Diligence/Right of First Refusal” (the exact wording can vary slightly depending on the MLS system in use).

Essentially, when a property is marked as DRF, it means:

• A buyer and seller have entered into an agreement.

• The transaction is not yet fully closed, but certain conditions are in play.

• Typically, it involves the buyer conducting due diligence (inspections, financing approvals, appraisals) or a Right of First Refusal clause being exercised.

How MLS DRF Status Differs from Active or Pending

• Active: Property is fully available; no contract in place.

• Pending: Property is under contract, waiting for closing.

• DRF: Property is under special review—buyers are still doing due diligence, or another party has the right to match an offer.

This makes DRF a transitional status, signaling that the property isn’t completely off the market, but it’s also not freely available like an Active listing.

Why MLS DRF Status Exists

MLS systems were created to standardize property information and provide clarity to buyers, sellers, and agents. But real estate deals aren’t always straightforward.

Imagine this:

• A seller receives an offer but gives their homeowners’ association or a tenant the Right of First Refusal to match it.

• A buyer makes an offer but requests 10 days for due diligence before fully committing.

Instead of marking the home Pending or leaving it as Active, MLS systems use DRF status to communicate this in-between stage.

This helps:

• Buyers know the home may still be available under certain conditions.

• Sellers show transparency about where the deal stands.

• Agents avoid miscommunication during negotiations.

Understanding MLS Status Codes: Where DRF Fits In

To better grasp DRF, it helps to see it alongside other MLS status codes.

Common MLS Status Codes Explained

1. Active – Property is fully available, accepting offers.

2. Contingent – Offer accepted, but conditions (financing, inspection, etc.) must be met.

3. Pending – Offer accepted, all contingencies cleared, awaiting closing.

4. Sold/Closed – Transaction completed.

5. Withdrawn/Expired – Property taken off MLS without sale.

6. DRF (Due Diligence/Right of First Refusal) – Special condition status, meaning not fully active or pending.

Active vs DRF Status in Real Estate

• Active: Anyone can submit an offer immediately.

• DRF: Offers may be limited or conditional based on another party’s rights.

Pending vs DRF MLS Status

• Pending: Property is effectively off the market.

• DRF: Property may still be available depending on conditions.

Buyer’s Guide to MLS DRF Status

If you’re a buyer and see DRF status property listings, here’s what you should know:

1. You Might Still Have a Chance

Unlike Pending listings, DRF properties sometimes remain open to backup offers. Your agent can guide you on whether it’s worth submitting one.

2. Due Diligence Can Work in Your Favor

If the current buyer walks away after inspections, financing issues, or other due diligence steps, you may become the next in line.

3. Understand the Right of First Refusal

In cases where DRF means Right of First Refusal, another party (such as a condo association or tenant) has the legal right to match any offer. This doesn’t necessarily exclude you, but it does mean added uncertainty.

4. Ask Your Agent the Right Questions

• How long is the due diligence period?

• Who holds the Right of First Refusal?

• Can I submit a backup offer?

Seller’s Guide to DRF Status in MLS

For sellers, listing your property as DRF has unique implications.

Pros of DRF Status

• Transparency about the deal status.

• Keeps buyers interested in case the current deal falls through.

• Shows MLS compliance and professionalism.

Cons of DRF Status

• May confuse or discourage buyers who don’t understand MLS terminology.

• Risk of losing momentum compared to a straightforward Active/Pending listing.

• Buyers may hesitate due to uncertainty about Right of First Refusal clauses.

Tips for Sellers

• Work with an agent who explains DRF clearly to prospects.

• Set clear timelines for due diligence.

• Be upfront about who holds the Right of First Refusal.

How Real Estate Agents Use DRF Status

For agents, understanding MLS DRF real estate definitions is key to managing client expectations.

• When representing buyers, agents must clarify that DRF doesn’t always mean “off the table.”

• When representing sellers, agents must market the home strategically to keep interest alive.

• Accurate MLS updates protect agents from compliance issues and potential disputes.

FAQs: DRF Status in MLS

Q: Does DRF status mean a house is sold?
A: No. DRF is not the same as Pending or Closed. It indicates due diligence or Right of First Refusal is in process.

Q: Can I make an offer on a DRF property?
A: In many cases, yes—you can submit a backup offer. Always confirm with your agent.

Q: How long does DRF status last?
A: It varies, often tied to inspection or HOA timelines. Typically 7–14 days but can extend longer.

Q: Why don’t all MLS systems use DRF?
A: MLS codes vary by region. Some MLS databases use “Contingent” instead of DRF.

Practical Example of DRF in Action

Imagine you’re buying a condo in a community where the HOA has a Right of First Refusal clause.

• You submit an offer, and the seller accepts.

• Instead of marking the home Pending, the agent updates MLS to DRF.

• The HOA has 10 days to decide whether to match your offer.

• If they decline, the property status moves to Pending.

• If they accept, you’re out—but at least you knew upfront thanks to DRF status.

This example shows how MLS DRF status explained clearly can prevent surprises later in the deal.

Key Takeaways: Understanding DRF Status in Real Estate MLS

• DRF in MLS stands for Due Diligence/Right of First Refusal.

• It’s an in-between stage—not fully Active, not fully Pending.

• For buyers, DRF can still present opportunities if you act strategically.

• For sellers, DRF keeps transparency but requires clear communication.

• For agents, knowing MLS status codes (DRF included) builds trust and credibility.

Conclusion: Making Sense of MLS DRF Status

Navigating the real estate market isn’t always simple, especially when MLS codes like DRF appear on property listings. But understanding these codes gives you an edge—whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a seller trying to close smoothly.

The next time you see DRF status in real estate MLS, you’ll know it signals due diligence or a right of first refusal, not an outright closed deal. Buyers may still have opportunities, and sellers should use it strategically to maintain transparency and interest.