Writing Compliant Listing Descriptions
How to write listing copy that sells the unit while staying honest and fair-housing compliant.
Great listing copy is specific, honest, and focused on the home — which also keeps it compliant.
Do
- Lead with location, price, and standout features.
- Describe the property and its amenities accurately.
- Keep availability and details current.
Avoid
- Language describing the “ideal” tenant.
- Anything implying a preference based on a protected class.
- Misleading claims or unrelated photos.
You’re responsible for the legality of your advertising. See Fair Housing basics.
Examples: before and after
Weak: “Perfect for a young professional, no kids.” Better: “Quiet unit on a low-traffic street, second-floor walk-up.” The second version describes the property and still communicates the same practical detail, without describing a preferred occupant.
Frequently asked questions
Can I mention that a property is close to a place of worship?
Best to avoid it — referencing proximity to a place of worship can imply a religious preference. Describe the neighborhood in terms of distance to transit, shopping, or parks instead.
Is it okay to say a listing is “great for a family”?
Avoid it — that phrasing can imply a preference tied to familial status, one of the federally protected classes. Describe the unit’s size and layout instead and let readers decide if it fits their needs.
Can I mention that a unit is on a specific floor or has stairs?
Yes — factual accessibility details like floor level, elevator access, or stairs are useful and appropriate to include; just describe the physical space rather than who you imagine using it.
Related guides
Related features and guides
- Fair Housing Basics — Documentation. The core fair-housing rules that apply when advertising, screening, and leasing on Seayora.
- Creating & Publishing a Listing — Documentation. How to post a rental listing on Seayora — property details, pricing, availability, amenities, and how listings appear in search.
- Uploading Photos & Media — Documentation. How to upload listing photos and files, requirements for images, and your responsibilities for uploaded media on Seayora.
- Listing Descriptions and Photos That Actually Rent the Unit — Guide. How to write honest, compelling rental listings and take photos that fill vacancies faster — while staying compliant and avoiding misleading claims.
- Tenant Screening: What Landlords Need to Know — Guide. How to screen rental applicants fairly and legally — credit and background checks, what you can and can’t consider, and staying compliant with the FCRA and Fair Housing.
- Fair Housing Support — Feature. Structured applications, consistent screening criteria, automated policy application, and listing guidance that supports fair housing compliance.