MLS RULE
Active — Ongoing enforcement
Florida & surrounding markets
Stellar MLS
Stellar MLS requires a three-part disclosure for all virtually staged listing photos. Members must label altered images, check a designated field, and include a notice in public remarks. Violations result in photo removal and automatic fines per the MLS violation schedule.
Overview
Stellar MLS, one of the largest multiple listing services in the United States, serving over 80,000 members across Florida and surrounding markets, has established clear rules for virtually staged photos under Article 04.04.
The rule requires that all photos must represent "a true and accurate picture of all property features." Any virtual staging must be disclosed through three distinct mechanisms within the MLS system.
Stellar MLS distinguishes between interior and exterior virtual staging, with stricter limitations on exterior modifications. Permanent structural elements may never be digitally altered.
Quick Facts
Applies to
Stellar MLS Members (80,000+)
Coverage
Florida & surrounding markets
Rule
Article 04.04
Status
Active — Ongoing enforcement
Penalty
Photo removal + automatic fines
Enforcement
Stellar MLS Compliance
Must Be Disclosed
The following virtual staging must be disclosed through all three required mechanisms:
Virtual furniture added to interior spaces
Digital décor, artwork, mirrors, or plants added
Twilight photo modifications (if lighting or sunset/sunrise is altered)
Addition of exterior furniture or décor digitally
Any alteration that misrepresents the true appearance of the property
Prohibited Alterations
The following edits are not allowed, even with disclosure:
Adding, removing, or altering permanent fixtures (walls, windows, flooring, ceilings)
Covering up material flaws, holes, damaged flooring, or exposed wiring
Adding views (gulf, ocean, landmarks) not physically visible from the property
Distorting room dimensions or spatial relationships
Virtual staging of pre-construction or under-construction properties
Adding branding, watermarks, people, or text to photos
What's Exempt
Standard processing that doesn't materially alter the property:
Brightening underexposed photos
Color correction and white balance
Cropping and straightening
Standard HDR processing
Lens distortion correction
Sharpening and clarity adjustments
How to Comply
Stellar MLS requires three-part disclosure for every virtually staged photo.
1
Label Photo Descriptions
Add the words "Virtually staged" to the photo description field for each altered image.
2
Check the MLS Field
Select the designated "Virtually Staged" checkbox in the Stellar MLS system.
3
Update Public Remarks
Begin public remarks with: "One or more photo(s) was virtually staged."
4
Verify Accuracy
Ensure all photos represent a true and accurate picture of all property features.
PropMedia Makes It Easy
Our disclosure tool helps you meet Stellar MLS requirements automatically. Upload your photos, select the edit types, and download a compliant image with a badge that links to the unaltered photo — covering all three disclosure requirements in one step.
Create Compliant Disclosure
Compliance Risks & Penalties
Stellar MLS enforces its virtual staging rules through an automated violation and fine schedule. Non-compliance carries real consequences for your listings and membership.
Photo removal
Non-compliant photos are removed from the listing immediately upon detection. Your listing may appear without photos until the issue is resolved, potentially losing buyer interest.
Automatic fines
Violations trigger automatic fines per Stellar MLS's published violation schedule. Repeat offenses result in escalating penalties that increase with each subsequent violation.
Membership consequences
Repeated or egregious violations may result in additional disciplinary action from Stellar MLS, including potential suspension of MLS access and listing privileges.
Consumer trust & legal exposure
Misleading photos — even if not caught by MLS compliance — can lead to buyer complaints, rescinded offers, and potential legal action for misrepresentation.
Official Source
Read the full Stellar MLS virtual staging rules (Article 04.04) on their official website.
View Stellar MLS Rule
Last updated: February 2026
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