Do You Have Permission to Publish that Photo?

Last Modified: August 18, 2026

This is a question we all need to ask ourselves when we upload photos to the MLS and to additional websites on the Internet. Exterior photos on RCO3 are NO LONGER "fair game" for Realcomp REALTORS^® to copy and use for their own listings. Realcomp's Board of Governors set new policy in regards to this topic in February of this year:

A revised policy concerning the re-use of property photos, virtual tours, and other electronic media - effective immediately. Specifically, this revised policy states these items, including the first primary photo, MAY NOT be reused from a previous listing and another agent unless written permission is provided from the previous list agent. This new policy was adopted in line with the fact that property photos may be copyrighted (by MLS Subscribers, photographers, etc.) and should not be reused without obtaining the proper permissions.

Before copying and using a photo (or any other type of electronic media) taken or provided by someone else, you MUST obtain written permission from that person or entity before doing so. Additionally, when you upload exterior photos of homes to Realcomp for MLS publication, you agree that you not only have the authority to provide the photo to Realcomp, but to also transfer the copyright to Realcomp. If the Terms of Use for those photos don't enable you to transfer the copyright, you SHOULD NOT provide these photos to Realcomp.

Unauthorized usage of another person or company's photos is a BIG DEAL and can land you in LEGAL HOT WATER. Before you upload a photo to Realcomp, be sure you have the proper legal permission to do so.

Last Modified: Tuesday, May 12, 2015

February 2014

Do You Have Permission to Publish that Photo?

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