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MIMLS rules, no AI-specific statute

Michigan AI Virtual Staging Compliance

No AI statute; Realcomp II rules + MI Consumer Protection Act apply

Last updated Sources linked belowInformation, not legal advice

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The short answer

Michigan has no AI-specific real estate statute. Realcomp II (Detroit metro) and MiRealSource (western MI) require disclosure of digitally altered listing photos. The MI Consumer Protection Act (MCL §445.901) provides a private right of action, though its scope was narrowed by Smith v. Globe Life (2002).

Legal basis: Realcomp II + MiRealSource rules + MI Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs advertising rules + MI Consumer Protection Act (MCL §445.901).

Key facts for Michigan agents

  • Realcomp II — dominant Detroit metro MLS — requires disclosure of altered listing photos.
  • MiRealSource — western MI — same disclosure framework.
  • MI Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs applies advertising rules to listing content.
  • MI Consumer Protection Act allows private action; scope narrowed by Smith v. Globe Life (2002).

MLS rules in Michigan

  • Realcomp II Aligned disclosure

    Detroit metro. Disclosure required on altered photos.

  • MiRealSource Aligned disclosure

    Western MI. Same disclosure framework.

MLS rules change often. Check your MLS’s current rules and any wording it prescribes before publishing.

Michigan virtual staging FAQ

Is there a law on virtual staging in Michigan?

Michigan has no statute written specifically for AI-altered listing photos, as of May 20, 2026. Realcomp II + MiRealSource rules + MI Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs advertising rules + MI Consumer Protection Act (MCL §445.901).

Do I have to disclose virtually staged photos in Michigan?

Plan on it. The MLS rules we track for Michigan (Realcomp II and MiRealSource) address altered or virtually staged photos. REALTORS® everywhere are also bound by Article 12 of NAR’s Code of Ethics, whose Standard of Practice 12-10 bars misleading images in advertising. Label each virtually staged photo and keep the original available.

What should the disclosure say?

Say plainly that the image was digitally altered or virtually staged, place it on or right next to the image, and point to the original photo. If your MLS prescribes specific wording, use that wording.

Will SofaBrain handle the disclosure for me?

It helps, but the responsibility stays with you. SofaBrain can stamp a “Virtually staged” label on downloads and keeps your original beside every result; you choose the wording and placement and check them against your state and MLS rules.

Sources

Nearby states and related rules

Information, not legal advice. This page summarizes Michigan laws, MLS rules and ethics guidance as of May 20, 2026. It does not create an attorney-client relationship, and SofaBrain is not a law firm. For specific questions, consult an attorney licensed in Michigan, your MLS or your E&O carrier.