What does the term 'listing' refer to in real estate?

In real estate, the term 'listing' specifically refers to the marketing of a property for sale. When a property is listed, it is officially put on the market, which entails entering the property into a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and making it available for potential buyers through various marketing channels. This process includes providing detailed information about the property, such as its features, asking price, and other relevant data that can attract buyers.

Understanding this concept is essential for real estate professionals, as it forms the basis for their sales efforts and the services they provide to sellers. A properly executed listing can significantly impact the speed and success of the sale, as it is typically how buyers first learn about available properties. Thus, recognizing 'listing' as the marketing aspect emphasizes its role in connecting sellers with potential buyers in the real estate market.