New to the status? Start with how Northwest MLS First Look works.
Have a home in mind? Request a private First Look tour and Aditya will verify the current showing instructions.
The clock starts before Active
Beginning September 4, 2026, Northwest MLS First Look can begin up to 21 days before a property reaches Active status. If you wait for the perfect public listing to appear before selecting a broker, confirming financing, and defining your offer limits, you are starting after part of the timeline has already passed.
What buyers should verify: The clock starts before Active
Moving earlier does not mean writing blindly. It means the decision system is ready before the opportunity arrives.
What the buyer agreement unlocks
A written buyer services agreement defines who represents you, what services are included, and how compensation works. It gives the broker a clear mandate to monitor, analyze, schedule, and negotiate for your search rather than waiting for a one-off showing request.
What buyers should verify: What the buyer agreement unlocks
The agreement does not guarantee a First Look match or tour. Seller instructions still control public display and showing access. It does make responsibilities explicit before speed matters.
Build the buy box now
Write down the numbers: minimum and maximum price, cash available for closing, financing ceiling, target cities, property type, commute constraint, and move date. Add the conditions that would make you walk away.
What buyers should verify: Build the buy box now
Then put that buy box on the First Look Buyer Waitlist. When a relevant property appears, the conversation starts with fit and offer math, not with basic intake.
FAQ
Do I need a buyer agreement to see a First Look home?
Showing and representation requirements depend on the specific circumstances and broker relationship. A written buyer services agreement defines representation before your broker performs ongoing search and negotiation work.
Does joining the waitlist guarantee early access?
No. Every First Look property is available to Northwest MLS member brokers, and sellers control showing availability. The waitlist creates a monitoring process, not a guaranteed match or tour.
Can I join before I am pre-approved?
Yes. Include your current financing position so the next step is clear. The buyer waitlist also offers an optional soft-credit-check lender introduction.
What happens when a property matches my buy box?
Aditya can verify the status and seller instructions, then discuss fit, showing access, financing readiness, and the next buyer decision with you.
Buyer monitoring
Put your buy box on the waitlist
Send your price range, target cities, property type, financing position, and timing. A match or tour is never guaranteed.
Join The First Look Waitlist