The use of AI to enhance real estate images is raising concerns among experts and buyers. Instances of misleading representations, termed 'housefishing,' have emerged as potential buyers find discrepancies between online listings and actual properties. A recent survey indicated that 20% of UK homebuyers encountered digitally enhanced images that did not accurately reflect the homes they viewed.
Real estate agents have traditionally used various methods to make properties more appealing, but the accessibility of AI technology has intensified these practices. Some agents are now implementing policies to label AI-enhanced images to avoid misleading consumers, as regulatory bodies emphasize the importance of transparency in property listings.