Common MLS Violations to Avoid in 2026
The first quarter of 2026 has already flown by, and MetroTex Compliance continues working hard to help maintain the integrity and accuracy of NTREIS MLS data. As a reminder, many MLS violations are easily preventable with a quick review before submitting or updating a listing.
Below are some of the most commonly reported MLS violations so far this year, along with important rule reminders to help reduce your risk of receiving a violation notice.
Photo Compliance Remains a Major Focus
MLS photo compliance is extremely important because listing photos syndicate across:
- IDX feeds
- brokerage websites
- third-party platforms
NTREIS MLS Rule 7.30 states in part:
“NTREIS does not permit the name, phone number, e-mail address, or web address of the listing agent or other similar information that is not descriptive in nature and relevant to an accurate portrayal of the Listed Property…”
The rule also applies to:
- Property photographs
- Picture descriptions
- Driving directions
Only true current photographs of the property may be used without decorative borders, branding, or digitally enhanced modifications that misrepresent the property’s condition or appearance.
Common Photo Violations
1. Virtual Renovations
Virtual staging is acceptable in many cases, but large-scale virtual renovations can become problematic.
Examples include:
- completely remodeled kitchens
- new flooring
- major structural upgrades
- expensive improvements that do not actually exist
If the renovated feature is not included in the property being sold, avoid digitally altering the property to suggest otherwise.
2. Virtually Enhanced Landscaping
Adding unrealistically green grass, landscaping, trees, or exterior enhancements that do not exist may misrepresent the condition of the property.
Landscaping improvements can be expensive, and listing photos should accurately reflect the property’s actual appearance.
3. QR Codes
QR codes are not permitted in listing photos or attached documents.
QR codes are considered:
- branding
- contact information
- marketing
Contact information is only permitted in:
- private remarks
- agent remarks
- showing instructions
4. Text Overlays on Photos
If information belongs in a designated MLS field, please avoid placing text directly across listing photos.
This includes:
- promotional text
- contact details
- financing information
- marketing slogans
Accurate Property Addressing Matters
Incorrect addresses continue to be one of the most common compliance issues.
Each portion of the address should be entered into the appropriate MLS field:
| Field | Example |
|---|---|
| Street Number | 123 |
| Street Name | Main |
| Street Type | Street |
| City | Anytown |
| State | TX |
| Zip Code | 12345 |
Important Reminder About City Names
The city listed in the MLS must match the taxing city reflected in the County Appraisal District (CAD), not necessarily the USPS mailing city.
Why this matters:
- Tax rates vary by city
- Emergency services may differ
- Voting districts may differ
- Municipal services may vary
Buyers have the right to know the accurate taxing jurisdiction associated with the property.
If no taxing city exists in CAD, the USPS mailing city may then be used.
Pro Tip: While Realist Tax is a valuable resource, it is not always updated in real time. The applicable County Appraisal District remains the definitive source for the most current and accurate property information.
Short Sale Reminder
MetroTex has recently seen an increase in short sale listings.
Please remember: Short sale information may not appear in the public Property Description field.
Per MLS Rule 10.02: Short sale disclosures may only appear in:
- the designated short sale field
- private/agent remarks
This rule exists to protect financial confidentiality and cannot be overridden.
AOC Status Updates
Another frequently overlooked compliance issue involves Active Option Contract (AOC) status updates.
If the option period is extended, the expiration date must also be updated in the MLS.
To update:
- Open the listing under INPUT
- Select “Quick Modify”
- Choose “Change to AOC Status”
- Update the option expiration date
- Submit the changes
A quick update helps maintain accurate listing information for all MLS participants and consumers.
Questions? Contact MetroTex MLS
MetroTex remains committed to helping members navigate MLS compliance successfully. Taking a few extra moments to review listings before submission can help avoid unnecessary violations and improve overall data accuracy throughout the marketplace.