
Drones in the real estate industry have become increasingly more popular. Some believe drone technology is the most important marketing tool to enter the industry; it is definitely hard to argue with that statement. Drones create beautiful aerial shots of properties and provide cinematic video tours that elevate real estate agents and businesses. With that being said, like Uncle Ben, Voltaire, or Winston Churchill stated (in some form or another), "With great power comes great responsibility." Drones provide massive benefits but when being flown there are strict guidelines that must be followed.
BENEFITS

1. Create beautiful images and videos.
Aerial photographs and video provide engaging content that will draw your clients to your property. Heck, fly the drone all the way through the front door and create amazing videos clients won't stop talking about. They create a different perspective ground photography can not quite get.
2. Showcase more property features.
Homes with a lot of acreages or a lot of outdoor features can be easily showcased with drone photography and video. The same goes for the surrounding area where the home is located. Highlight schools, parks, or downtown areas.
3. Stand out against the competition.
Using aerial photography and video elevates your business for prospecting clients and future clients. It makes your business look very professional and shows you are willing to put in the time and effort to promote your client's beautiful home.
REGULATIONS
The benefits for implementing drones in your business are huge but there are very strict regulations, by the FAA, when conducting flights with small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS).

1. Part 107 License (FAA Drone License).
The most important part of flying drones commercially is passing the Part 107 exam (side note: Harpy Vue is Party 107 Certified :)). If you fly drones for profit, you must have a license, or you could face major fines. Obtaining the license also gives your business credibility and shows you're willing to provide the utmost service and safety to your clients and future clients. The test is two hours long and 60 questions, that might seem easy but there is a TON of information to study and the FAA likes to make the questions confusing. I recommend using Drone Pilot School to provide you with study material and videos to give you the exact information that will be on the exam.
2. Remote Identification Rule.
A new requirement that will take effect on September 15, 2023, is that all drones will be required to transmit identification information and location information that can be received by other parties, such as law enforcement agencies. Most newer drones will come equipped with a built-in Remote ID. For a drone that is not equipped, a separate broadcast module may be placed onto the drone.
3. Operations over people and at night.
On March 16, 2021, certain pilots with updated tests or online training may fly at night. Also, drones equipped with flashing anti-collision lights can be flown at night.
4. Insurance Coverage.
This is not a regulation but something important to note is to make sure whether you fly yourself or you hire someone, that they have insurance coverage (like us!).
The benefits of drone photography and video are enormous and can pay dividends for your business. The regulations are important to follow but despite them, these are exciting changes for drones to generate impactful, creative marketing for businesses.
"With great power, comes great responsibility." Fly safe and follow the laws of the air but have fun and create some awesome content!
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