A field-ready reading of Stellar MLS, Article 04.04, with the primary source visible on-page.
This Stellar MLS photo guide is based on Stellar MLS, Article 04.04, checked 2026-07-24. Review the linked current source, preserve original and edited files, and complete every MLS disclosure step before upload.
Pricing: $9 to try your first listing, $33 for a full listing
Time Required: About 15 minutes to prepare and review a listing package
MLS image rules are specific, change over time, and may require disclosures in fields or on images that an editing tool cannot apply for the agent.
Use the cited rule as the authority, retain originals, prepare edits in BuildMyListing, then complete the board-specific disclosure and upload steps yourself.
Each rule statement on this page is tied to Stellar MLS, Article 04.04.
Benefit: Review the authority instead of relying on an uncited summary.
BuildMyListing preserves original and edited outputs for the agent's review.
Benefit: Keep comparison assets available where a board requires them.
Enhancement, virtual staging, and object-removal tools create candidate listing assets.
Benefit: Prepare the files, then apply the MLS-specific disclosure workflow.
Generate descriptions and run a Fair Housing language scan before human review.
Benefit: Keep photo and copy preparation in one listing workflow.
Open the published source below and confirm Article 04.04 is still current.
Upload agent-authorized photos, create candidate edits, and review originals beside the edited versions.
Complete every label, field, watermark, adjacency, and upload step required by Stellar MLS; BuildMyListing does not submit to the MLS.
| Published requirement | Primary authority | Agent action |
|---|---|---|
| The photo description must include “Virtually staged,” the virtual-staging checkbox must be selected, and public remarks must begin “One or more photo(s) was virtually staged.” | Stellar MLS, Article 04.04 | Verify against the live rule and apply it before upload. |
| Virtual staging is limited to personal property and may not add, remove, or alter permanent fixtures or create an impossible view. | Stellar MLS, Article 04.04 | Verify against the live rule and apply it before upload. |
| Exterior staging is limited to unattached furniture and décor; branding, people, and words are prohibited, and the image must remain a true picture of the property. | Stellar MLS, Article 04.04 | Verify against the live rule and apply it before upload. |
Scenario: An empty interior is staged with digital furniture.
Process: Retain the original, create the staged version, then follow the cited MLS disclosure workflow.
Compliance: Apply Stellar MLS's current rule; BuildMyListing does not certify or submit the image.
Scenario: Brightness or presentation is adjusted before upload.
Process: Compare the result with the original and reject any misleading change.
Compliance: Use the definitions and restrictions in Stellar MLS, Article 04.04.
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