February 24, 2025
In today’s digital real estate market, images play a crucial role in attracting potential buyers and renters, and REALTORS know this. However, some unethical Realtors and scammers manipulate (errr… “enhance”) listing photos that may mislead consumers. With the rise of advanced image-editing tools and AI-generated enhancements, buyers must be more vigilant than ever. Here’s how deceptive photos can distort reality in real estate listings that could COST YOU THOUSANDS.
1. AI-Generated Features That Don’t Exist
A growing concern in real estate advertising is the use of artificial intelligence to generate features that do not actually exist on a property. Some listings showcase AI-enhanced images that add features such as swimming pools, lush landscaping, backyard views or even entire rooms that are not part of the home. Buyers who visit the property expecting these elements often experience disappointment and frustration when they discover the reality is far different from the listing photos.
2. Excessive Photo Editing and Retouching
While minor touch-ups to brighten images or improve clarity are acceptable, some realtors take it too far. Over-enhanced images may make small spaces look significantly larger, hide structural issues, or depict a much newer appearance than the actual condition of the property. Some listings may even use wide-angle lenses that can DISTORT perspectives, creating an unrealistic sense of space that vanishes upon an in-person visit.
3. Digitally Staged or Misleading Furniture Placement
The worst offender that I encounter daily when analyzing MLS photos for appraisal assignments are the DIGITALLY STAGED photos WITHOUT any commentary or photo captions. Virtual staging has become a popular tool in real estate, but it can sometimes be deceptive. AI-generated furniture, décor, and even entire layouts are inserted into photos to make properties appear more appealing. While staging can help buyers visualize a home’s potential, misleading virtual elements—such as furniture that can potentially hide damage or layouts that misrepresent room sizes—can result in unmet expectations.
4. Stock Photos or Images from Different Listings
Some unethical agents (and many builders) use stock photos or images from entirely different listings to enhance the appeal of a property without full disclosure in the MLS. This practice is particularly deceptive, as potential buyers may expect a level of luxury or design that does not exist in the actual home. Using misleading images can waste buyers’ time and erode trust in the real estate industry.
How to Protect Yourself from Deceptive Listing Photos
Request recent and unedited images: Ask for unedited, timestamped photos or video walkthroughs before scheduling a visit.
Visit properties in person: Never rely solely on online photos; see the property firsthand whenever possible.
Use online image verification tools: Reverse image search tools can help detect if photos have been used elsewhere.
Ask for a virtual live tour: A live video tour with an agent can provide a more accurate representation of the property.
Final Thoughts
Fake or misleading photos in real estate listings can create false expectations and waste buyers’ time, mislead appraisers that depend on accurate MLS data (and photos), and endanger the entire lending process. With the rise of AI-generated enhancements, it's more important than ever for buyers to stay informed and conduct thorough research before making any commitments. Always verify property details through multiple sources and consult a trusted real estate professional or appraiser to avoid falling for deceptive listings.
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