2021, it's been a hell of a year and then some.  If there's two things that we the people love (besides family and health), it's real estate followed by comedy.  Interest rates are at an all time low, inventory is at an all time low, and interest in real estate is at an all-time high.  Buyers as well as sellers (and those not even ready to do either) can appreciate the additional exposure (and humor) that creative listing photos provide for a listing.  If the seller and the listing agent agree on a creative listing marketing plan, then there is absolutely no reason that the local MLS should have any part in censoring or restricting the agreed upon listing packet.  

National Association of Realtors - Code of Ethics:

ARTICLE 1 - Duties to Clients and Customers:  When representing a buyer, seller, landlord, tenant, or other client as an agent, REALTORS® pledge themselves to protect and promote the interests of their client. 

If non-typical listing photos are used but they are deemed to be at the best interest of the client, then who is the local MLS to say that the listing agent is not promoting the best interests of the client?

ARTICLE 10 - Duties to the Public: REALTORS® shall not deny equal professional services to any person for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. 

If non-typical listing photos are used but the MLS is denying their use after a real estate professional deems the product to be in the best interest of the seller, then who is the local MLS to say the listing agent is not promoting the best interests of the client?

ARTICLE 15 - Duties to REALTORS: REALTORS® shall not knowingly or recklessly make false or misleading statements about other real estate professionals, their businesses, or their business practices.

If members of the local MLS are making slanderous statements towards the specific  real estate professional(s), then is the local MLS employee really qualified to say that the listing agent is not promoting the best interests of the client?

In conclusion, the agent has a fiduciary duty to the seller of the property.  This is a commitment to act in the best interests of another person or entity.  If the seller and the listing agent agree that humorous or unusual photos will potentially yield a higher amount of interest, therefore yielding more offers as well as financial disbursement to the seller - then the local MLS - HAS NO BUSINESS CENSORING LISTING PHOTOS. 

It is ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY that us real estate professionals are able to act  without restriction, dictatorship and/or censorship as fiduciary agents to our clients.  

From first time home owners, to seasoned real estate investors and the agents who guide deals on both sides - everyone including all of their families are affected.  And YOU CAN BE THE CHANGE.

The golden rule:  'Whatsoever ye would that others should do to you, do ye even so to them.'  

BE THE CHANGE.