In this ever-growing age of AI, altered photos are more prevalent than ever. and are flirting heavily with false advertising. Al has made it trivially easy to swap furniture, add a crackling fireplace, or erase a dog that wandered into frame. Consequently, a new law now requires any materially altered listing photo to carry a “Digitally Enhanced” or “Virtually Staged” watermark.

An AI created image of a garage remodel.

Standard edits — brightness, exposure, vibrance — are still acceptable with no disclosure needed. But if the content of the photo has been changed, the original unedited photo must also be published alongside it.

Sellers of 1–4 unit residential properties must now disclose ANY known history of smoking on the property and specifically any smoke residue from any third-hand smoke devices. These devices include all nicotine products, not limited to cigarettes, hookahs, electronic cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and vape devices. The Homeowner’s Guide to Environmental Hazards which has traditionally included topics like lead, asbestos, mold, and radon, will now include a section on smoke residue.  

Safe Homes Grant Program: Homeowners in high wildfire risk zones may apply for grants to install fire-resistant roofs and establish ember-resistant “Zone-Zero” defensible space around their homes. Check your property’s fire hazard severity zone →

Mortgage relief: Homeowners facing hardship due to wildfires may request extended mortgage forbearance while they recover. HUD’s guidance on mortgage forbearance options →