Drone Photography Captures Everything
Drone photography and video can capture the feeling of a property and the surrounding area. The remarks section and amenities ca now be fully visualized with convenient drone images and placed in the photos section. Why is this is so important? Because as the Institute for Behavioral and Experimental Real Estate found, online buyers spent 60 percent of their time on photos, 20 percent on the property description, and 20 percent on the remarks section. Drone photography will now capture all the details that used to reside in the remarks section and fully visualize them for buyers in the photos, where they spend most of their time.
Doesn't Break the Bank
Aerial drone photography is helping agents get more visibility online and sell properties quicker. According to MLS statistics, homes with aerial images sold 68 percent faster than homes with standard images. Drones make this possible by:
- Capturing features that standard, on-the-ground photography can't
- Making it accessible for all budgets
- Selling a lifestyle and amenities to a potential buyer
Real estate agents are able to sell properties more effectively by utilizing drone photography and video without breaking the bank.
The First Listing Photo
Now that over 90 percent of buyers are starting their search online, and will only be presented with that first photo, choosing that first photo is even more important. Drone photography can capture:
- Outdoor entertainment areas
- The entire property or land area
- Pools and custom landscaping
- Water features and water views
- Proximity to Local Amenities
Highlighting these items in the first listing photo ensures that buyers viewing properties don't scroll past your listing because they didn't see the pool of their dreams in the first photo.
FAQs
Do I need a license to fly my Drone?
Yes, you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS rating from the FAA. To become a certified remote pilot, an individual must: (1) be at least 16 years old; (2) be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language; (3) be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a Drone; and (4) pass the initial aeronautical knowledge exam. A certified remote pilot must always possess his or her Remote Pilot Certificate when operating a Drone, and complete online recurrent training every twenty-four (24) calendar months to maintain his or her certificate.
Do I need to register my Drone?
All Drones must be registered with the FAA, and those used for real estate business purposes should be registered under Part 107 (i.e., they do not qualify for the Exception for Recreational Flyers). To register, you will need to provide your email address, physical and mailing address, and details regarding the make and model of your Drone. You will also be required to pay a registration fee. Registration is valid for a period of three (3) years. Once you register with the FAA, you will receive a registration certificate, which you will need to carry on your person any time you operate the Drone. You will also need to include your registration number on an outside surface of the Drone.
Is there a penalty for failing to register a Drone with the FAA?
Yes. Failure to register a Drone may result in civil penalties of up to $27,500 and criminal fines of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for up to three (3) years.
How high does the law permit a Drone to be flown?
In general, a Drone may be flown no higher than 400 feet above ground level, or if flying over a structure, no higher than 400 feet above the structure’s uppermost limit.
What should an individual consider when hiring a company to take pictures or videos of property listings with a Drone?
When selecting a company to take pictures or videos of your property listings with a Drone: (1) make sure the Drone operator has obtained a Remote Pilot Certificate; (2) check the company’s insurance coverage in the event of an accident or other liability that can arise from the Drone operation.