Traditionally, real estate professionals have relied on photographs and, more recently, video tours to help sell properties. As technology advances, so do the methods that these pros use to show off their listings. Drone technology, in particular, has become increasingly popular in the real estate profession. This is because of the unique perspective that the filming capabilities of drones provide, allowing prospective buyers to get a more complete view of the properties they are interested in. However, as with all technologies, there are laws and regulations that govern drone usage in real estate. In this article, we will explore how to legally fly drones in the real estate industry.
First, it’s critical to understand that drone use isn’t a free-for-all. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates all types of drone use in the United States, including for real estate purposes. To that end, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the FAA’s rules and regulations before you start flying drones for real estate photography.
One of the most important requirements is that anyone flying a drone for commercial purposes, which includes real estate, must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, more commonly known as a Part 107 license. To acquire this license, you must pass an aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved knowledge testing center. Fortunately, once you have this certification, it’s valid for two years before it requires renewal.
Furthermore, drones used for commercial purposes must register with the FAA. While recreational drone flyers are also mandated to register drones that weigh more than 0.55 pounds, commercial users must register any drone used, no matter its weight. Make sure to consult FAA’s drone zone portal to complete your drone registration and always display your registration number on your drone.
Even with a Part 107 license and a registered drone, it’s essential to abide by the FAA’s operational rules. Some of such rules include flying the drone no higher than 400 feet above ground level, maintaining a visual line of sight with the drone, and not flying the drone over people or moving vehicles. However, under certain circumstances, licensed pilots can apply for specific waivers that could potentially exempt these rules.
While FAA provides the overarching federal regulations, it’s also critical to note that individual states may have additional requirements or restrictions on drone usage. For instance, some states have enacted laws that prohibit drones from flying over private property without the owner’s consent to deter unwanted invasions of privacy. It’s, therefore, crucial to research state and local laws before taking flight.
Important to remember is the ethical use of drone technology in the real estate industry. Respect for privacy must be emphasized, and commercial flyers should ensure they are not invading the personal space or privacy of neighbors or passersby when capturing images or videos of a property. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has developed a Field Guide to Drones and Real Estate, which includes recommendations for ethical drone usage.
Now to the practical aspect of using drones in real estate. Embrace the unique capabilities of drones by capturing aerial photos, creating videos, or even crafting 3D virtual tours of properties. Drone footage can provide potential buyers with a bird’s-eye view of a property, offering a comprehensive understanding of its layout, size, and relation to the surrounding neighborhood.
Drones can also provide close-ups of areas that might be difficult to capture from the ground, such as roofs or upper-story features. For larger properties, a drone can create a “fly-through” video, allowing potential buyers to envision their commute to work or imagine potential home improvements.
When looking to engage the services of a professional drone operator, do ensure they are FAA certified to avoid penalties for non-compliances to FAA regulations. If you opt to purchase a drone and operate it yourself, consider investing in a high-quality drone that offers stability, high-resolution imaging, strong battery life, and easy maneuverability.
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In today’s technologically advanced world, utilizing drone services for real estate is a boon. However, it’s necessary to remember that while technology offers exciting opportunities, it also brings about the necessity for regulation. Thus, gaining comprehensive knowledge about the legalities around operating drones in real estate is necessary before venturing into this ground-breaking field for advertising your properties. Following these norms can lead the way to new heights and perspectives in property showcasing, advertisement, and, ultimately, a successful sale.
