A jurisdiction-agnostic guide to disclosing virtually staged listing images — the universal principle, what differs by state, and a four-step compliance checklist.
If a listing photo has had furniture or physical features digitally added, most U.S. MLS boards — and the NAR 2026 Code of Ethics — require you to disclose it as virtually staged, typically with a visible label and (increasingly) a way to view the original. California's AB 723 makes this a statutory requirement; other states rely on MLS rules and ethics standards.
Virtual staging — digitally placing furniture and décor into an empty room — is one of the most common and most useful tools in real estate marketing. It is also one of the most regulated, because a staged photo can change what a buyer believes about a property.
Beyond that universal principle, the specifics vary by jurisdiction:
SEAREI produces all of this automatically for any listing, with the jurisdiction-appropriate wording.
For every listing, SEAREI applies the jurisdiction-appropriate disclosure wording, hosts the original unaltered image on a public verification page, issues a tamper-evident compliance certificate, and keeps an audit-ready record of what was altered and when. Whether you stage with SEAREI or bring photos staged elsewhere, the compliance layer is produced for you.
Most U.S. MLS boards and the NAR 2026 Code of Ethics require disclosure of virtually staged images. California makes it statutory under AB 723; other states rely on MLS rules and ethics standards. Confirm your specific MLS board's rule.
On or near the photo wherever a typical buyer will see it — both on the image itself (visible label) and in the listing remarks. AB 723 specifically requires the disclosure to be conspicuous and located on or adjacent to the altered image.
Yes. AB 723 requires the original to be accessible via a public link, URL, or QR code in the disclosure. Most MLS boards have their own retention rules on top of that. SEAREI hosts originals permanently on a public verification page.
Yes, if it adds, removes, or changes elements of the property. AI lighting or color correction that doesn't change the property's representation does not require disclosure.
Last updated: May 25, 2026 · SEATECHONE LLC
Informational, not legal advice. Confirm current rules with your MLS, brokerage, and counsel.