Compliance guide for real estate professionals
Texas does not have virtual staging-specific regulations. However, Texas Occupations Code §1101.652 allows TREC to discipline licensees for misrepresentation, and §1101.156 permits rules preventing false, misleading, or deceptive advertising practices.
TREC can impose administrative penalties from $500 to $5,000 per violation. License suspension or revocation possible for misrepresentation under §1101.652.
Texas Occupations Code §1101.652 lists grounds for license discipline, including making a material misrepresentation or failing to disclose material facts. While there's no specific virtual staging rule, undisclosed staging that creates a false impression of property condition could fall under these provisions.
Houston Association of REALTORS (HAR) and other Texas MLS systems have varying requirements. Check your specific MLS for photo rules and disclosure fields. When in doubt, use both a watermark on images and written disclosure in your remarks.
Texas's prohibition on misrepresentation means you shouldn't digitally change walls, windows, flooring, ceiling heights, or other permanent features. Limit staging to adding furniture and décor. Altering structure could be treated as material misrepresentation.
Texas has significant new construction inventory. When staging builder model homes or homes under construction, be clear about what is 'standard' vs. 'upgraded' vs. 'virtually staged.' Buyers of new construction are particularly sensitive to upgrade misrepresentation.
Texas markets like Dallas, Austin, and Houston attract significant out-of-state investor activity. These buyers may purchase without visiting—accurate staging with clear disclosure is essential because they're relying heavily on online materials.
"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"
© 2025 MappedBy Inc. All Rights Reserved