If the property is currently occupied by the Seller (or Tenant), ask permission to take photos. Avoid taking photos that will include people, pets or personal valuable items belonging to the seller/tenant that are not included in the sale. If the property is vacant, photo taking should not be an issue. If permission to take photos is denied, make a written list of items that should convey with the sale and check your list as you do the walk-through prior to closing. Also, make sure these items are indicated in your sales contract that they are to be conveyed with the sale.

The buyer can take photos of the interior and exterior of the home once a contract has been signed by all parties. This assures the buyer that the property will be transferred exactly as it was when purchased. Although personal items may appear in the photos that is not what the buyer is generally photographing. They want to be sure that the general condition of the home as well as the same appliances, light fixtures and other essentials included in the contract remain in place.

Also, if they are purchasing the contents of the home there should be an addendum to the contract with a complete list of all items included. This includes number of dishes, silerverware, pots and pans, etc. If there are TVs or any items with serial numbers then the model and serial numbers should be documented as well.

A buyer may only take photos by permission of the seller. Photos for the purpose of appraisal, etc., are strictly confidential and only accessible by the appraiser and whomever hired the appraisal and do not have anything to do with personal (moveable) property.

Usually inspections and appraisals entail taking pictures of the subject property. I believe that is standard procedure. Specific approval from the seller is not asked beyond the seller's obligation to allow for inspections and appraisals as agreed to in the contract.