Section 3: Images and Documents
This article contains Section 3 of the MLS Now Rules and Regulations (Rules 3.1–3.4), effective 08/03/2026. The rule text below matches the official MLS Now Rules and Regulations. Terms are defined in Section 12.
3.1
Participants must own or have written permission to use images/documents. The following are prohibited: visible branding, watermarks, photos of agent/broker, marketing overlays, QR codes, misleading content, or any content violating law. Lot lines, markers, and labels, for example, may be added if not the primary photo. MLS Now may remove non-compliant content and require timely correction.
3.2 Primary, exterior unaltered photo required
The primary image must be an unaltered current photo, except for new construction where an architectural rendering is permitted.
3.3 Virtual Staging, Digital Alteration, and AI-Generated Content
3.3.1 Permitted alterations (with disclosure): virtual staging limited to movable personal property (e.g., furniture, rugs, art), minor cosmetic edits (exposure, white balance, lens distortion), and sky replacement that does not materially change views or surroundings.
3.3.2 Prohibited alterations: adding, removing, or modifying any permanent or structural feature (e.g., walls, windows, doors, ceilings, floors, cabinets, countertops, appliances, fireplaces, fixtures, decks, pools, fences), property size/lot lines/views, neighboring structures, roads, powerlines, or topography; changing exterior condition or landscaping in a way that misrepresents current condition; removing/obscuring material defects (e.g., cracks, water damage, mold, wiring, stains); depicting additions/renovations/upgrades not actually present; adding people/animals or safety devices; using filters/effects that misrepresent color/condition.
3.3.3 AI-generated/CGI content: renderings, AI-generated images, and virtual remodels are permitted only if clearly labeled on-image as “Rendering,” “Virtual Remodel,” or “AI-Generated,” and must not depict features or conditions that do not exist, except for new construction or proposed improvements expressly identified as such.
3.3.4 Required disclosure and format: every altered/staged/rendered image must include an on-image label in a readable font (minimum comparable prominence) stating “Virtually Staged,” “Digitally Altered,” or “Rendering/AI-Generated,” as applicable. Captions/descriptions must repeat the disclosure. Do not place branding in the disclosure.
3.3.5 Participants must retain original, unaltered media and provide it to MLS Now upon request for verification.
3.4 Subsequent Use of Media
Use of media that is included in the MLS compilation by any subsequent Subscriber requires prior written authorization from the Participant/Subscriber who previously submitted the media and any party with the legal right to grant that authorization.