AI virtual staging is permitted under the 2026 NAR Code of Ethics — when disclosed and not misleading. What SOP 12-10 requires, how it interacts with state law, and what it means in practice.
The NAR 2026 Code of Ethics, Standard of Practice 12-10, prohibits REALTORS® from manipulating listing content (including images) to produce a deceptive or misleading result. AI virtual staging is permitted — but it must be disclosed and not misrepresent the property.
As AI staging tools become standard, the question agents ask is “is this even allowed?” The answer is yes — AI-assisted staging is a legitimate marketing tool — but it sits under the same honesty obligations as any representation of a property.
NAR’s Code of Ethics is national and applies to all REALTOR® members regardless of state. Standard of Practice 12-10 addresses manipulating (e.g., presenting content out of context) listing and other content in a way that produces a deceptive or misleading result, including misleading images. Articles 2 and 12 more broadly require honest, truthful representation in advertising.
This is the national baseline. States like California (AB 723) and MLS boards layer specific requirements on top — for example, AB 723 makes the original-access requirement statutory in California rather than just an ethics expectation.
SEAREI is built around both the NAR 2026 Code of Ethics standard and the state/MLS rules, producing disclosure and proof for every staged image. The disclosure label travels with the image; the original is hosted on a public verification page; the compliance certificate provides the audit-ready record. The same artifact set satisfies SOP 12-10 plus AB 723 plus NWMLS Rule 80, with the jurisdiction-appropriate wording.
No. AI virtual staging is permitted under the 2026 Code of Ethics when it is disclosed and not misleading. Standard of Practice 12-10 prohibits manipulating listing content to produce a deceptive or misleading result — not the use of staging tools themselves.
A standard under NAR Article 12 that addresses manipulating listing and other content in a way that produces a deceptive or misleading result, including misleading images. It is part of the broader Articles 2 and 12 requirement to be truthful in advertising.
The Code itself only applies to NAR members (REALTORS®). However, the underlying principles (honesty in advertising, not misrepresenting properties) appear in state real estate licensing law that applies to all licensees, REALTOR® member or not.
They overlap but don't conflict. AB 723 is California state law and applies to every licensee in California. SOP 12-10 is a NAR ethics rule and applies to REALTOR® members nationally. A California REALTOR® must comply with both. SEAREI is built around both standards.
Last updated: May 25, 2026 · SEATECHONE LLC
Informational, not legal advice. The Code of Ethics is administered by NAR; SEAREI is not affiliated with or endorsed by NAR. Confirm current Code of Ethics requirements with the National Association of REALTORS® and your local board.