Drone Technology

The use of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in real estate^1,2 is quickly becoming the norm. While there are still many restrictions and barriers, it is slowly becoming a popular way to give a full picture of a property and to complete some processes of real estate transactions more completely. Static photos and videos are still very helpful, but drones are able to go beyond. For example, the ability to show a home or property's proximity to local shops, parks, and the street routes all give buyers a very clear idea of what is around the property. And as you know, this is often just as important as the property itself.

Spanning residential and commercial real estate, there are many aspects of the industry that can benefit from the use of drones or UAVs. We've highlighted a few aspects in greater detail below to help give you some insight into how this technology is starting to enhance and optimize the business.

Perspectives

Drones and UAVs equipped with high-resolution cameras can capture stunning aerial photographs and videos of properties, offering a unique perspective of many facets of the property. This enables real estate agents to showcase property features such as size, location, surroundings, and amenities.

Inspections³ and Surveys

Drones can be used to conduct efficient and cost-effective property inspections and surveys. They can quickly and safely access difficult-toreach areas, such as roofs or tall structures, without the need for manual inspection. Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras can also identify energy inefficiencies or structural issues.

Remote Buyers

With the correct tools, 3D maps and models can be created to provide an accurate depiction of properties and their surroundings. These models can be used for virtual tours, architectural visualization, urban planning, and development projects. They help potential buyers or investors to visualize the property and make informed decisions remotely.

Differentiation

Drones add a dynamic and captivating element to property marketing and advertising campaigns. Aerial footage of properties can be the basis of engaging promotional videos that attract attention and generate interest. This can be a key differentiator in a competitive market and reach a wider audience through various online platforms and social media channels.

Exercising Caution

The use of drones can seem very appealing, but it's important to exercise caution when you're either deciding to embark on the use of this technology or have already decided to do so.

A few things to keep in mind:

1. Understand what your rights are to the footage. The drone company may retain rights to reuse the footage. Understand what materials you are going to reuse the footage for and make sure copyright and usage are clearly spelled out.
2. Make sure the company you employ is certified by the FAA (in the US), and in global regions, be sure to check the laws in the area. Laws will vary depending on where you are, so make sure to do your homework!
3. Verify the company you are using is fully insured in case of accidental damage.
4. Alert the neighbors and be sure all privacy concerns are addressed. For example, if there are children in the area, be sure that they are not filmed in any way.

¹ lunar-ai.com/property-marketing-with-drones
² equinoxsdrones.com/blog/importance-of-drone-technology-in-real-estate-marketing
³ cp.catapult.org.uk/article/high-hopes-for-drone-property-inspections/