Paul,

What a great question.  I would have been inclined to say yes, but then in thinking it through, I think permission is needed.  This would especially apply to high end homes that are often full of valuables.  I would not be adverse to helping someone measure a room, or creating a floor plan for their furnishings.

Thanks for making me think on this one.  A

Our listing agreement will specify if the taking of photos is allowed. If not, then the agent must make note of it in the MLS.

Most of the homes in my market are weekly rental properties that are being sold fully furnished. The buyers frequently take pictures of the furnishings (or videos) so that when we go back through the house for a final walk-through, they can make sure that all the furnishings are still there.

Many years ago, because my buyer had video-ed the TV and sound system in the living room, she could see that the TV had been replaced.  I called the listing agent and informed them that the TV had been replaced, and that we would not be closing until the TV was returned.  Magically, it appeared within the hour and we proceeded to close the transaction.  

No pictures without permission from the owners.  Definitely some privacy issues here.

I don't think it's ok to take photos without permission. 

No. I have heard stories about furious sellers after they found out buyers photographed and filmed inside of their home, including their kids bedrooms. It's friggin amazing how many agents think it is ok. Usually there are already numerous pics in the mls.

Hi Paul --- I will also say this is an interesting question.   Our California residential listing  agreement has a clause that a seller can opt out of that states(paraphrasing) that the seller agrees(or not) that the listing broker and prospective buyers/selling agents can take photos, videos or other images.

So unless, I have been instructed otherwise by the seller(or listing agent when I don't represent the seller) -- my opinion is that is acceptable for buyers to enter the property to be able to take photos.

That said, if the listing agent(or seller) is in attendance at a showing(or open house/broker preview) I will ask permission as a matter of courtesy.

I do ask for permission.  I work with many out of state buyers, even some out of country.  Many times we view homes while they are visiting Tucson, AZ and if we dont find one we like, set them up on a portal.   Some buyers choose to make an offer site unseen, for them I offer to take photos, videos, etc.  I do ask the listing agent first, to get permission.  Granted, I dont do this for all buyers as some simply are not comfortable buying sight unseen.

I don't know why a seller wouldn't want a serious buyer taking pictures or measurments.

Now if they were trying to take pictures of security equipment or how to remove the TV from the wall, etc I think you have a different set of problems. 

Interesting question. I've had a few buyers along the way who have taken pictures...they were genuine buyers. I didn't think twice about it...maybe I should...I do know that when buyers see many homes at one time, it's easy to forget themm so pictures can be helpful in jogging memories.

Depends on whether it is occupied.

You have a valid point.  If the home was vacant, they could take all the photos they want, but if it was occupied, you never know what those pictures could be used for.

NO...I give them a copy of all the photo's on the MLS.  Anyting more they need permission.

Paul Henderson Absolutely not without the permission of the sellers through their respective agent.

You're supposed to get permission in our area. Now, some higher-ups within the board have told us if the Buyer is taking a picture to review later that night in deciding what house to purchase it's ok but it's not ok to post on social media and I remind them of such.

It's all about common sense.

I do ask the homeowners and they have always agreed...

no 

If the home is shown on Zillow the seller has ALREADY forfeited all rights to the imagery of the home. If the home appears on Google maps, the intent of the owner becomes even more clear.

If however the listing agent is PROTECTING their client and takes measures to avoid the perils and hazards created by Zillow, permission will be needed.

Should the seller fall victim to the peril and hazard created, and such peril and hazard not disclosed, the listing agent, their broker, and franchise should be held financially and criminally accountable.

And if the new owner becomes a victim related to the information found on Zillow, the buyers agent, buyer broker, buyer broker franchise, listing agent, listing agent broker and listing agent brokers franchise should all be held financially and criminally accountable for not disclosing such peril and hazard exists for the new owner.