You should use images that you own in your marketing efforts. Copyright laws protect the owners and legal actions can be very expensive for those who use images without permission.

Probably No, not unless you have permission. Also, MLS guidelines probably state that you can't use any photos that you don't actually own.

No, in my MLS you have to digitally sign that you are the sole owner of any photos you are posting.  

It's probably illegal but then again Google uses some of my photographs.

No, you shouldn't do that. From a legal standpoint, someone can sue.  And, if it's Getty or someone similar, they will win.

In my Board you need to own the rights of the photo or have permission to use. 

Sam Shueh as much as I believe Google is not going to come after you, may be, it's a good idea to just go there and take a picture.....

No I think you can get in trouble doing that. How hard is it to take a photograph?

I don't know what the ruling is on Google Earth images. I am sure there are disclosures and feel like you could link to it but shouldn't copy and paste as your own. I always recommend using your own images. 

Sam Shueh I would say no, the photos are protected by copyright laws.

It's not legal unless the Google image allows commercial re-distribution.  Plus, your MLS may have further restrictions about the images you use.

Legal or not, it is a reflection of one's character.  In our opinion it further damages the public's opinion of real estate agents.  Should the person who owns that picture came after someone, it can be detrimental in many ways.  An assistant of an acquaintance used a photo from a photo sight without paying for it.  It cost our acquaintance $3000 to get rid of the problem.  A

Hi Sam --  I don't answer "legal" questions --- ask an attorney.