Compliance guide for real estate professionals
Florida Statute 475.25 treats undisclosed virtual staging as potential fraud. Stellar MLS Article 04.04 has specific requirements including mandatory disclosure at the start of public remarks.
License suspension or revocation under F.S. 475.25. MLS fines and listing removal for rule violations.
Stellar MLS Article 04.04 requires that each virtually staged photo must include the words 'Virtually staged' in the photo description entry field. This is a per-photo requirement, not just a general listing disclosure.
Stellar MLS Article 04.04 requires public remarks to BEGIN with: 'One or more photo(s) was virtually staged.' This must be the first words—don't bury it mid-paragraph or at the end.
Stellar MLS explicitly prohibits exterior staging. This includes adding landscaping, changing exterior paint colors, removing power lines or neighboring structures, and adding outdoor furniture to yards or pools. Exterior staging can result in immediate MLS violations.
Florida Statute 475.25 treats misrepresentation of property condition as potential fraud. Digitally removing water stains, hiding damage, changing flooring, or altering fixtures could constitute fraud under Florida law—not just an MLS violation.
Florida's premium markets often revolve around water views and pool features. These high-value elements attract extra buyer scrutiny. Never digitally enhance water views, remove neighboring boats or docks, or alter pool condition. Misrepresentation of waterfront features is a common source of complaints.
Under Florida Statute 475.25, making false promises or misrepresentations about property is grounds for license revocation. This is stricter than many states—Florida explicitly treats undisclosed staging as a potential fraud issue, not just an ethics violation.
"Images have been virtually staged to illustrate the property's potential. Furniture and decor 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 home features virtual staging to help you visualize its potential. The furniture shown is digitally added and not physically present. Schedule a showing to see the actual space. #VirtualStaging #RealEstate"
"This listing includes virtually staged photographs. Digital furniture and decor have been added to help you visualize the space. These items are not present in the physical property. Original photographs are available upon request."
"VIRTUALLY STAGED – Furniture shown is digitally rendered"
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