Listing videos and the MLS: length, rules and versions
Most MLSs let you add a listing video or virtual tour, but require the version linked there to be unbranded: no agent or brokerage names, logos, phone numbers, emails, websites, QR codes or links that send viewers elsewhere, and often no people. Rules vary by MLS, so check yours, then make two versions of the same video: a branded one for your website and social, and an unbranded one for the MLS. Here's what's typically prohibited, the length and structure that work, and how to make both versions.
What MLSs typically prohibit in tours
| Usually not allowed in the MLS version | Example rule sources |
|---|---|
| Agent or brokerage names and logos | Doorify MLS, MLS Now |
| Phone numbers, emails, websites | Doorify MLS |
| Links or QR codes that lead away from the tour | Doorify MLS |
| A tour page that promotes the agent after the link opens | MLS Now |
| Branded Matterport tours in the unbranded field | Realcomp (add &mls=1 to the link) |
Some MLSs have separate fields for branded and unbranded tours. Read your MLS's rules; violations can mean fines or the listing being suppressed.
Length and structure
| Where | Length | Frame |
|---|---|---|
| MLS virtual tour link | 30–90 s, unbranded | 16:9 |
| Listing page, YouTube | 30–90 s | 16:9 |
| Reels, TikTok | 15–30 s | 9:16 |
Open with the address (if your MLS allows it) and key specs (a timed template), walk the rooms in order, one fact per room, end on the best view instead of an agent card.
Put the MLS facts on screen
Paste the description into Novacut with your clips and ask for "one or two facts from the description that match what's on screen":
Seven walkthrough clips and an MLS description became a beat-synced listing video. Sped up. Phone-size version.
Making the unbranded version
Make the branded version, export it, then send one message:
Make an unbranded version for the MLS: remove the logo, the agent card and the open-house banner. Keep everything else.
Everything else stays as it was: the rooms, the facts on each one and the music, which Novacut trimmed so it still fades out where the picture now ends. If your MLS also bars the address, say so in the same message.
Host it somewhere neutral (an unlisted YouTube or Vimeo link that doesn't show your channel branding prominently, or your tour provider's MLS link) and paste that into the MLS's virtual tour field.
Checklist
- Address, price, beds/baths in the first 5 seconds (if your MLS allows the address)
- Rooms in walking order, one fact each
- Every cut on the beat
- Branded version for your site and social; unbranded for the MLS
- No contact details, logos, links or QR codes in the MLS version
- A vertical cut for Reels (how)
FAQ
Can I put my logo on the MLS virtual tour?
Usually no. Most MLSs require virtual tour links to be unbranded. Use the branded version on your website and social media.
Where do I host a listing video for the MLS?
Many agents use an unlisted YouTube or Vimeo link, or the tour provider's MLS-compliant link. Check that the hosting page itself doesn't promote you.
Can the MLS video show the agent?
Some MLSs prohibit agent photos or contact details in listing media, and branding rules usually rule out an agent introduction. Keep the MLS version to the property.
How long should an MLS listing video be?
30–90 seconds is typical; check whether your MLS has a length or file-size limit for uploaded video.
Sources: Doorify MLS virtual tour requirements; MLS Now, adding a virtual tour; Realcomp, Matterport tours update. Checked October 2026; rules vary by MLS.
Footage: Kindel Media on Pexels (Pexels License). Address, price, listing text and agent are fictional.