Not legal advice. Rules differ by state, MLS and brokerage, and they change. Ask your broker or an attorney before relying on this.
The Rule
Section 3604(c) of the federal Fair Housing Act makes it unlawful to publish a housing ad indicating a preference, limitation or discrimination based on a protected class. It does not matter that software wrote the draft. For REALTORS®, Article 12 of the Code of Ethics also requires a true picture in advertising.
Describe the Property, Not the People
AI models learn from old listings, so they can repeat their habits. Rewrite anything that describes who should live there:
- "Perfect for young families" becomes "three bedrooms, fenced yard".
- "Great for empty nesters" becomes "single-level layout, low-maintenance yard".
- "Walking distance to St. Mary's" becomes a plain statement of the distance to named places, if you include it at all.
- "Safe, quiet neighborhood" is a claim you cannot prove. Leave it out and point buyers to public sources.
Check Every Fact
Language models can invent details. Compare the draft with your listing sheet, line by line: bedrooms, square footage, year built, upgrades, views, HOA and school names. Your MLS may also ban contact details or certain wording in remarks.
A Simple Prompt Habit
Give the tool only verified facts and tell it to use nothing else. For example: "Write MLS remarks under 800 characters using only these facts. Describe the property, not who should live there. Do not mention schools, safety or neighbors. List any fact you were unsure of."
Review Routine
- Generate from verified facts only.
- Check each fact against the listing sheet.
- Read for words about people, and rewrite them.
- Have the seller confirm the final text.
Browse listing description tools.
Common Questions
Which Classes Does the Fair Housing Act Protect?
Race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status and national origin. State and local laws often add more, so check yours.
Does a Guardrail in the Tool Protect Me?
It can catch common phrases, but it does not transfer responsibility. Review the text yourself.
Last updated November 6, 2026. Source: Fair Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. § 3604(c); NAR Code of Ethics Article 12.
