Photos are displayed, never copied
MLS Genie does not download, store or host MLS listing photographs. Each imported listing keeps a reference to the photo where the MLS serves it, and your site displays it from there. Your visitors see the images normally; your server never holds a copy.
Why it works this way
Most MLS licence agreements are explicit that photographs may not be replicated or stored by the licensee. It is one of the most commonly overlooked clauses in IDX compliance, and one of the easier ones for a board to check. Products that cache MLS images onto the client's server are taking a risk on the brokerage's behalf.
What it means for your site
- Your media library stays clean. Thousands of imported listings do not become tens of thousands of image files to back up, migrate or pay to store.
- Photos stay current. When a listing agent replaces a photo, your site shows the new one — there is no stale local copy to refresh.
- Your compliance position is defensible. If a board audits you, the answer is simple and true.
What about images you upload yourself?
Anything you add — agent portraits, area photography, images on a Luxury Listings showcase — is yours and is stored normally in your media library. The restriction applies only to photographs that come from the MLS feed.
