When the public learned about drones years ago, we often pictured military tactical use hovering over a desert landscape. While drones are still an integral part of military operations, they’ve now firmly entered non-military realms of everyday life, especially in residential and commercial real estate.
If you search “how to sell my house” or “home selling tips,” chances are you’ll turn up multiple sources about incorporating drone imagery. Home selling and home shopping strategies are changing rapidly, thanks to the growing use of drones to maximize exposure on online channels.
While commonly referred to as drones, they are technically unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which are part of a larger collection of piloting operations known as the unmanned aircraft system (UAS). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates both and requires training and licensing for commercial use.
Intrigued by the possibility of using drones for aerial photographs of your home and neighborhood in your home marketing plan? Read on for home-selling tips.
The Increase of Drones in Real Estate Marketing
In August 2016, the FAA released guidelines on drones, allowing greater access for users. Before that time, the official use of drones in real estate required waivers and other time-consuming hurdles. The airspace around a house is now available for sellers to showcase and boost their property’s features.
Personal entertainment and commercial delivery systems are two civilian uses of drones, but the real estate industry has quickly embraced the marketing possibilities drones offer traditional home sellers and for sale by owner (FSBO) sellers.
Fierce competition in the real estate world now requires next-level presentation to attract buyers in many markets across the U.S. The high-quality, detailed aerial videos and photographs that drones produce are hard to beat.
Specific guidelines for operating commercial drones are available from the National Association of Realtors. They break down exactly what is required before introducing drones into any marketing program. Briefly, operators can expect to:
- Take an initial aeronautical knowledge test
- Apply for a remote pilot certificate
- Pass the TSA security check
How Do Home Sellers Make the Most of a Drone’s Capabilities?
Real estate agents primarily use drones to capture images, either in video or photographs, for home sale marketing. Pro agents know that they aren’t simply selling the brick-and-mortar of a house; they are selling the “feeling” of home and the lifestyle that accompanies it.
Drones enable buyers to see and experience feelings that still photography can't always convey. The footage demonstrates just how close the walk to an elementary school is, how vast the property expands, and exactly where the pond is located. Buyers prefer detailed information so they can picture themselves in the setting. In more practical terms, buyers can also verify the roof and exterior’s age and finishings, as well as view typical routes and walkways through neighborhoods.
Drones can also be used to capture interior images. A skilled professional is required to pinpoint the best angles without crashing the drone, and to capture spectacular images of grand staircases, vast foyers, and intricate architectural details. Unique sight lines that stand out from routine online videos urge buyers to act quickly, lest they miss the opportunity to make an offer.
Hiring Professionals for Drone Operations
The drama and production of a custom movie produced just for your home sale elicit more relatable feelings than grainy photos ever can. For buyers, positive vibes spring from viewing mature trees lining a street, while doubts are calmed by verifying the state of the structure itself.
Wondering how to find a capable drone operator? Industry leader Aerobo has a network of drone photographers who may serve your area, but the company suggests contacting local real estate agents for their referrals and suggestions. Aerobo also offers this advice for locating qualified photographers.
When vetting an aerial photographer, make sure that they either specialize in or have extensive experience with real estate marketing. A company that primarily shoots for insurance companies will probably not have the skills you need to show your listing in its best light. Aerobo also stresses the importance of liability insurance. Reputable companies for hire will carry general liability insurance to protect against damage.
Sell My Home: Marketing Your Home in the Future
As DIY agents become proficient in handling drones and additional professional drone businesses open for contractual use, the aerial industry will continue to grow and become an in-demand service for home sellers.
For now, real estate groups must make the financial decision to contract out for professional drone videos and photography or invest in personnel for training, licensing, and the initial purchase of the collective UAS.
If your home is for rent or sale on MilitaryByOwner, it's crucial to include high-quality landscape-oriented photographs in your listing to maximize your audience reach. Remember, buyers are trying to envision themselves in your house and can’t tell if the space is cluttered or the room is too dark.
Utilize the resources available from MilitaryByOwner to make the most of your home advertising dollars, like our free home selling guide below.
