Do I have to disclose virtual staging?

Yes. Practically every MLS requires it, and the NAR Code of Ethics and state advertising rules require an honest picture of the home.

Virtual staging disclosure rules in the USA

Virtual staging is legal in all 50 states. Two rules matter everywhere: disclose that the photos are virtually staged, and never use staging to misrepresent the property.

Adding furniture and style is fine. Hiding a defect or inventing a feature, such as a fireplace or a view that does not exist, is not. Disclosure is governed by the NAR Code of Ethics, your state real estate commission, and your local MLS, which sets the binding labeling requirement.

Allowed: add furniture and decor, declutter, repaint, refresh a dated room.
Not allowed: add features that do not exist, hide a defect, or fake the view.
Label the image itself as virtually staged, and note it in the listing remarks.
Keep the original, unedited photo where your MLS requires it.

Frequently asked questions

Is virtual staging legal?: Yes, in all 50 US states, as long as you disclose that the photos are virtually staged and do not misrepresent the property.
Do I have to disclose virtual staging?: Yes. Practically every MLS requires it, and the NAR Code of Ethics and state advertising rules require an honest picture of the home.