Compliance guide for real estate professionals
Scotland has a distinct legal system with different property law. The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 still applies. Trading Standards Scotland enforces regulations. Scottish solicitors handle most property sales, with additional oversight from the Law Society of Scotland.
Criminal prosecution under CPRs: unlimited fines and up to 2 years imprisonment. Solicitors face disciplinary action from Law Society of Scotland. Trading Standards Scotland can pursue civil and criminal enforcement.
Scotland's unique Home Report system means buyers receive detailed property information upfront. While the Home Report focuses on survey and energy data, consider noting in your marketing materials that virtually staged images should be viewed alongside the Home Report's factual assessment of property condition.
Trading Standards Scotland applies the CPRs to property marketing. Each staged image needs visible labelling—watermarks or captions stating 'Virtually Staged' or 'Digitally Enhanced'. This must be legible on ESPC, Rightmove, and other platforms.
In Scotland, solicitors often handle property sales directly. If you're an estate agent marketing on behalf of a selling solicitor, ensure they're aware of and approve your virtual staging approach. The Law Society of Scotland holds solicitors accountable for marketing accuracy.
Never alter structural features, flooring, fitted items, or exterior views. Scottish properties often have distinctive features (tenement flats, New Town townhouses, traditional cottages)—these characteristics should be presented accurately. Stage with furniture that complements but doesn't misrepresent.
Include unstaged photographs in your marketing materials so buyers can see the property's actual current condition. This transparency aligns with Scottish property law's emphasis on informed decision-making.
"Images have been virtually staged to illustrate the property's potential. Furniture and décor shown are digitally rendered and are not included with the property. Please refer to the original photographs for an accurate representation of the property's current condition."
"This property features virtual staging to help you visualise its potential. The furniture shown is digitally added and not physically present. Book a viewing to see the actual space. #VirtualStaging #PropertyMarketing"
"This listing includes virtually staged photographs. Digital furniture and décor have been added to help you visualise the space. These items are not present in the physical property. Unstaged photographs are available upon request."
"VIRTUALLY STAGED – Furniture shown is digitally rendered"
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