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Pointing Down | The Toilet Seat Crime

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with KD Realty - 408.972.1822 CA DRE#01366594

This is my fourth and final entry to the ActiveRain June Point Store Challenge

We are all in with the balance of points to make it a crime to publish real estate marketing photos with the toilet seat up. 

Real Estate Photography Criminalized 

It all began on a peculiar Wednesday morning when Senator Crappy was sipping his third cup of coffee while browsing online real estate listings. His eyes narrowed onto photo after photo of pristine living rooms, glossy kitchens, and manicured lawns. But then it happened—the image that would change the course of history forever. A bathroom. A rogue toilet. Seat up.

“Unacceptable!” Mr. Crappy shouted. “This is an affront to decency and decorum and should be a crime!”

Mr. Crappy’s indignation was not born of mere propriety. It was personal. Years ago, during a particularly heated Thanksgiving debate over cranberry sauce, his Aunt Kathleen mocked him for accidentally leaving the toilet seat up at the family cabin. The humiliation had lingered ever since, festering like a forgotten turkey leg and cranberry sauce in the back of a refrigerator.


And there it was again. A toilet seat—incriminatingly, unapologetically upright—mocking him from a glossy 2D image. Mr. Crappy decided at that moment that he would not rest until every toilet in every real estate listing across this fine nation had its seat firmly down, as the Founding Fathers would have wanted.

The Birth of the Toilet Seat Act


Mr. Crappy contacted Senator Feces and demanded the crappy real estate photos with the toilet seat up be a criminal offense. The senator agreed and drafted a bill: The Toilet Seat Transparency Act of 2025. It was a masterpiece of legislative precision, stipulating that all toilet seats in real estate photographs must be photographed in the "down" position, with violators subject to penalties ranging from hefty fines, public shaming on national television, and in extreme cases, one year in county jail. 

The opposition was swift and fierce. The National Association of Real Estate Agents (NAREA) argued that such legislation infringed upon their creative freedoms. “A bathroom is a blank canvas!” declared one enthusiastic real estate agent during a heated town hall meeting. “Sometimes the seat being up adds… drama!” “That’s a load of crap!” cried Mr. Richard Head.  

Meanwhile, Senator Feces' allies in the Senate, who initially thought he was joking, began to realize he was unwaveringly serious. “This isn’t about toilets,” the Senator proclaimed during a press conference, adjusting his patriotic tie. “This is about respect. About dignity. About not seeing the gaping maw of porcelain staring back at you while imagining your future home!”

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“From the moment we met Kathleen, we were impressed with her professionalism, knowledge, patience, respect, humor, attention to detail, and compassion.  She's the Whole Package ~ excellent agent and wonderful human being!  In a potentially stressful experience, we have felt in good hands all along.  We are so grateful and recommend her without hesitation!”

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Comments(21)

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Ed Silva, 203-206-0754
Mapleridge Realty, CT 203-206-0754 - Waterbury, CT
Associate Real Estate Broker

It is indeed a matter of importance and open or closed sets a tone, he manner of which can determine how long a home sits on market.   It would be a matter of constipated sales.

Jun 25, 2025 04:52 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Love that Ed Silva, 203-206-0754 long time on the market equates to a constipated sale.  Thank you for stopping by. 

Jun 26, 2025 07:22 AM
Debe Maxwell, CRS
Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 - Charlotte, NC
The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!

Oh Kathleen, you never disappoint! And I have to say, at long last, justice flushes forward! I, for one, am relieved that the Toilet Seat Transparency Act is making headlines—because nothing says “dream home” quite like a porcelain throne in its proper position.

 

Bravo, Senator Crappy and Senator Feces—your aim is true, and your seat-down stance is...uplifting!! 

Jun 25, 2025 08:33 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Hello, Miss Debe Maxwell, CRS I am loving the comments and how they play on words.  Thank you for hosting. 

Jun 26, 2025 07:23 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

Good morning, Kathleen... just too bloody funny. I laughed all the way through. If they were giving bonuses for creative entries, you should be the first to get them.

Jun 26, 2025 03:52 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker

Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist I see those all the time, too. And also of kitchen sinks. What are these agents thinking? What are their photographers thinking? And how to do homeowners allow it?

Jun 26, 2025 07:27 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Thank you, Miss Nina Hollander, Broker It seems since I wrote this, I am seeing more and more toilet set up photos in the MLS.  Thankfully, none of them look like the photos in the post.

Jun 26, 2025 07:24 AM
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Kathleen - the cast of characters in the scenario you share is more than a load of $<!+# and giggles, it's a stinkin' success.  A potential potpourri of events, one might say.  

Jun 26, 2025 04:19 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Thank you for stopping by Michael Jacobs - indeed, potpourri would be appropriate as well. 

Jun 26, 2025 07:25 AM
Kat Palmiotti
eXp Commercial, Referral Divison - Kalispell, MT
Helping your Montana dreams take root

Hahaha. First of all, those photos were definitely nasty! YUCK. And second, the Toilet Seat Transparency Act! haha.

Jun 26, 2025 05:02 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

I took those photos Kat Palmiotti.  There is a long story behind that abandoned home. Real estate is not as "glamorous" as some may believe. Long before "covid" I've entered homes with masks, gloves, boots, and overalls.  I still shake my head at the photos with the toilet set up.  Thank you for stopping by. 

Jun 26, 2025 07:29 AM
Brian England
Ambrose Realty Management LLC - Gilbert, AZ
MBA, GRI, REALTOR® Real Estate in East Valley AZ

The toilets that you have pictured are the types that I imagine could be purchased with AR points, since all vendors of nice toilets would think we were bananas for trying to purchase with points, haha.

Jun 26, 2025 05:41 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

They would think we are bananas or worse Brian England - yet the toilet seats must be done in real estate marketing photos.  Thank you for stopping by. 

Jun 26, 2025 07:30 AM
Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

Hi Kathleen,
It's going to be a long time before I can flush that image out of my mind. Thanks a LOT! 😂 

Put it on the ballot to the people. 

Jun 26, 2025 06:56 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Imagine how I felt walking the entire home - believe me, the kitchen and all rooms, and yards were the same.  The transformation of the home was incredible.  Sorry I left you with that image Miss Carol Williams 

Jun 26, 2025 07:32 AM
Anna "Banana" Kruchten
Retired Broker/Owner - Phoenix, AZ
602-380-4886

OMG I am laughing myself off the you  know what Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist !  I had to share this with Gary and now he's laughing too!  Thanks for making our day get off to a GREAT start with laughter!  And please thanks Mr Crappy for all his good work at solving this toilet seat dilemma!  You're the best!!

Jun 26, 2025 09:54 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Miss, Anna "Banana" Kruchten laughter and humor were the goal. There is another tie there, but I won't mention the "P" word.  Thank you for letting me know it touched your funny bone, and Gary's too. 

Jun 27, 2025 08:11 AM
Anna "Banana" Kruchten

No dumping allowed!! 

Jun 27, 2025 04:13 PM
Lew Corcoran
Better Living Real Estate, LLC - East Bridgewater, MA
Expert guidance. Exceptional results.

Thanks so much for sharing this hilarious and clever post, Kathy Streib! I really appreciate your wit and how you turn a simple detail like a toilet seat into a fun, memorable story. It’s a fresh take that keeps the reader engaged and makes a lighthearted point about everyday things we often overlook. Thanks again for brightening my day with your share! 😊

Jun 26, 2025 11:23 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

"Every day thing =s we overlook." in the comfort of our own home is acceptable.  In real estate marketing photos, it is now a crime thanks to Mr. Crappy.  Thank you for stopping by Lew Corcoran 

Jun 27, 2025 08:13 AM
Dr. Paula McDonald
Beam & Branch Realty - Granbury, TX
Granbury, TX 936-203-0279

Girl, you crack me up! This is one crappy post! 💩 💩 💩

Jun 26, 2025 02:42 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

It sure is a crappy pst Dr. Paula McDonald 

Jun 27, 2025 08:13 AM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good morning Kathleen,

OMG! I just read this and just had to laugh hysterically! I am glad like  Kathy Streib I was not easting! LOL! Very creative and loved the name "Senator Feces"

Jun 27, 2025 04:29 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Hello Dorie Dillard Austin TX - I am holding back a comment to Senator Feces so this does not go "political," yet I am sure you might imagine what I am thinking. Thank you for stopping by. 

Jun 27, 2025 08:15 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Kathy. Simply hilarious! Mr. Crappy and Senator Feces make a great comedy team. Thanks for sharing. I have a few stories about bathrooms and children present at showings. Enjoy your day.

Jun 27, 2025 05:42 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Oh Boy, I bet I might guess the outcomes of some of your showings stories Wayne Martin.  Back in the day when I was an open house ninja, just as I was closing up an open house, a pregnant woman ready to pop came running back in asking if she could use the bathroom.  Without my response, she ran back to the primary bathroom in the back of the house.  When I went back to check before locking up, there was an overflow incident.  

Jun 27, 2025 08:18 AM
Scott Schulte
Scott Schulte LLC - Phoenix, AZ

Slim Crappy swore he was done droppin’ rhymes. But between Senator Feces, the Toilet Seat Transparency Act, and the roaring flush of public support, he is startin’ to feel like he's bein’ egged on for another track. 👀🎤🚽

Jun 27, 2025 06:29 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

I am not surprised Scott Schulte 

Sometimes we just have to "go" with what we are "moved" to "doo-doo." 

 

Jun 27, 2025 08:19 AM
Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!
Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374 - St. George, UT
Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.

This is H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S, Kathleen, am still grinning over it! Glad that Mr. Crappy took a very traumatic event and ran with it to make a positive difference in bathroom photo etiquette. Congrats on the being featured in BananaTudes!

Jun 27, 2025 11:46 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Hello Miss Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can! 

Thank you for the Feature Banana Tudes 🍌🍌🍌

Jun 27, 2025 02:41 PM
Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400
HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400 - Pikesville, MD
Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome

Just left you a message, Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist 

What a perfectly perfect potty post, especially after a very challenging week! I'm thrilled that my closing did not circle the drain like this guy:

                                                 

 

 

Jun 27, 2025 01:12 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Hello, Miss Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400 I am sorry I missed your call.  I am heads down today, working on a project for an attorney. I will reach out and catch up as soon as I can come up for air. 

Jun 27, 2025 02:43 PM
Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty
Front Gate Real Estate - Brandon, MS
601-991-2900 Office; 601-278-4513 Cell

I truly hope that is an AI photo and not an original, because the toilet is indeed crappy! 

Jun 27, 2025 02:16 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

I am raising my right hand and solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me GOD Pat Starnes-Front Gate Realty 

I took the photos and many others like it of the entire home, interior, and exterior, all of which look the same as the photos here. No AI photos. 

It has undergone a complete, and I do mean complete, restoration.  

Thank you for stopping by. 

Jun 27, 2025 02:46 PM
Lynn B. Friedman CRS Atlanta, GA 404-617-6375
Atlanta Homes ODAT Realty - Love our Great City - Love our Clients! Buckhead - Midtown - Westside - Atlanta, GA
Concierge Service for Our Atlanta Sellers & Buyers

Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist 
So wonderful that you are participating in this legislation.
Certainly needed.
All the best - Lynn

Jun 27, 2025 06:07 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Hello Lynn B. Friedman CRS Atlanta, GA 404-617-6375 - It is needed. No one needs to see that while searching for homes.  Thank you for stopping by. 

Jun 28, 2025 07:36 AM
Debra Leisek
Bay Realty,Inc Homer Alaska - Homer, AK

There's a lot here to ponder Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist 

“That’s a load of crap!” cried Mr. Richard Head.

 

Jun 28, 2025 01:26 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Humor keeps me balanced when the world around me seems to be spinning out of control Debra Leisek - thank you for stopping by.

Jun 28, 2025 07:37 AM
Debra Leisek

I would say you are pretty balanced Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist  And very funny!

Jun 28, 2025 05:34 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

Thank you, Debra Leisek 

Jun 28, 2025 06:08 PM
Alan May
Jameson Sotheby's International Realty - Evanston, IL
Home again, home again...

Wow... just Wow!

Jun 28, 2025 05:10 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

 

 

Wowzer!

 

 

Jun 28, 2025 06:09 PM
Nick Vandekar, 610-203-4543
Realty ONE Group Advocates 484-237-2055 - Downingtown, PA
Selling the Main Line & Chester County

Very funny and creative, they should include in the same bill that toilet rolls must go over and down, not under and down as well! I once read that the seat should be down as it prevents the "chi" energy in the house from flowing out.

Jun 30, 2025 06:47 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

HaHa  Nick Vandekar, 610-203-4543 the toilet paper up or down remains on the Senate Floor.  

Jun 30, 2025 09:26 AM