AI virtual staging tricks renters with fake dream apartments

AI-generated furniture and decor in rental listings are creating unrealistic expectations, as landlords use virtual staging to make cramped or rundown units appear spacious and modern. A New Yorker described her search as 'hell' after viewing a virtually staged studio that looked nothing like the photos. The practice is becoming widespread on platforms like Zillow and StreetEasy, misleading tenants and wasting their time.