Copyright & Media Use Policy

Common Infringements to Avoid

One of the most common forms of copyright infringement is when real estate agents, homeowners, or third parties reuse, forward, or republish listing media without proper licensing — especially after a property changes hands or is repurposed.

Examples include:

  • A buyer using listing images to advertise a rental or Airbnb

  • A seller using old listing media for a for-sale-by-owner post

  • An agent reusing content for a future listing or portfolio without authorization

These actions are strictly prohibited unless explicit permission is granted by Sixteen Degree Media. Unauthorized use may result in enforcement and financial penalties.

What Your Media License Includes

When you hireSixteen Degree Media, your media comes with a limited-use license, which allows:

  • Use of the media to market the specific property ordered

  • Use by the original client (agent/team) only

  • Usage during the active listing period, not to exceed 12 months

  • Continued use of the main photo for sold marketing or portfolio content *Additional Continued media use to Real Estate agents available upon request

What Is Not Allowed (Without Written Permission)

  • Transferring or re-licensing media to another agent if the listing expires or is reassigned

  • Giving homeowners, property managers, builders, contractors, or third parties permission to use the media for any reason

  • Using media in any future listing, rental, Airbnb, FSBO, or non-MLS advertising

  • Republishing or editing the media for new commercial use without written approval

If someone other than the original client needs access or usage rights, please email admin@sixteendegree.com. We offer fast and affordable licensing solutions to avoid copyright issues.

Enforcement & Copyright Penalties

Unauthorized use is a violation of U.S. copyright law and may result in infringement fees starting at:

  • $1,000 per occurrence for residential real estate media

  • $5,000 per occurrence for commercial, builder, Airbnb, or FSBO use

If not resolved within 7 days of written notice, we reserve the right to pursue full damages under federal law, including:

  • Up to $30,000 per work, or

  • Up to $150,000 for willful infringement, plus attorney’s fees

We take copyright enforcement seriously to protect the value of our work and our clients’ reputations.

Copyright Ownership

All media created bySixteen Degree Media — including photographs, video, floor plans, site plans, aerial imagery, and social media content — is protected under U.S. copyright law.

All intellectual property rights are owned by Sixteen Degree Media. Only Sixteen Degree Media has the authority to grant or extend licensing.

If you ever need additional use rights or want to expand how you use your media, just email admin@sixteendegree.com. We’re here to help.

Thank you for respecting the creative work behind your listings.

All orders scheduled with Sixteen Degree Media are subject to our Terms of Service.