California now requires AI-edited listing photos to be labeled. Here’s how to read one.
Since January 1, 2026, a California agent who changes a listing photo with software or AI has to say so and show you the original. Here’s what that looks like in practice.
California’s AB 723 took effect on January 1, 2026. It covers real estate brokers and salespeople, and anyone marketing a property on their behalf. If an image has been digitally altered in a way that changes how the property looks, the listing has to say so.
What counts, and what doesn’t
- Counts: adding or removing furniture (virtual staging), changing landscaping or a facade, removing power lines or a neighboring building.
- Doesn’t count: routine fixes like white balance, exposure, sharpening, cropping and color correction.
What the label has to do
The disclosure must be “reasonably conspicuous” and sit on or next to the image. It should say the image was altered and point to the unaltered version, through a link, a URL or a QR code. Willful violations can be a crime under California real estate law.
One honest caveat: the law is new, and industry guidance on exact wording and placement is still being worked out by brokerages and MLSs. Don’t expect every listing to look the same yet.
Sources
- 1.California Legislature — AB 723 bill status
- 2.Open Homes — What you need to know about AB 723
- 3.San Diego MLS — AB 723: Digitally Altered Images
This post is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Figures are as reported by the sources above at the time of writing.
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