Drones are helping real estate agents create unforgettable marketing content. But more importantly, drones are helping real estate agents increase their sales. A recent study showed that 83% of homeowners preferred to work with an agent that used drones. The NAR also reported that 73% of homeowners are more likely to list their home with a real estate agent who provides video of their home. But, only 10% of listing agents are offering these types of drone services.

The good news is drone photography is not outrageously priced and using drones can actually increase an agent’s revenue by attracting more sellers.

Agents interested in flying their own drones can check out our Real Estate Drone Guide and our article on what it takes to fly a real estate drone. Those looking to outsource and hire a professional drone pilot can read on to find out about the cost of hiring someone for drone photography and videography in 2019.

Real Estate Drone Photography Costs

To be transparent, the price will vary depending on factors such as the duration of the shoot, the photographer’s experience, equipment, and the competition in the local market. The type of shoot will also affect the price. However, a basic real estate shoot is usually priced from $100 to $250/hr, with most drone photo and video shoots lasting 1-2 hrs.

The location of the listing will also affect the price. More metropolitan areas and cities tend to have slightly higher costs. No matter where you live, the price should never, exceed $350/hr. per listing. If it does, keep shopping.

How to Shop

When shopping for a real estate a drone photography and videography service there are few quick ways to narrow down your candidates.

1. Make sure the drone pilot has insurance. This is usually displayed on the pilot’s website. If they aren’t insured, keep searching.
2. Make sure the drone pilot has their commercial drone 107 license. This is a seven-digit id for the pilot’s FAA training.
3. Make sure their pricing is displayed on their website. If there is a “contact us” form instead of transparent pricing, the company wants to funnel you into their marketing system. Keep searching.
4. Make sure the pilot specializes in residential real estate. Because drone photography is still so new, most drone pilots will grab up any work they can get. Photographing a serene, forest pond is a lot different than photographing a home so that it sells. Be sure to pick someone with real estate experience, that has a portfolio on display.
5. Ask if the pilot charges extra for travel time and if post-production editing and file sharing is included in the price. These extras can rack up costly, hidden fees.
6. Make sure that the photographer signs usage rights over to you since the photos and video will be used commercially.
7. Check the pilot’s privacy policy. Many drone pilots retain rights to share the content they create, either online or over social media. This might be a red flag for some homeowners, who do not want their home used to promote a drone business.
8. Find out if the pilot has a process for alerting neighboring homeowners when they are using drones. This can avoid privacy complaints.

Shopping Tip: Droners is a website committed to connecting drone pilots with the people who need them. Real estate agents can browse drone pilots in their area by price, insurance, equipment, etc.

Closing

Real estate drone photography and videography is in demand. Home sellers prefer listing agents that will market their homes with video and drones. While some real estate agents are considering investing in their own drones, real estate drone photography costs when hiring a professional are typically $100-$250/hr.

And, to show off every drone video, photo, virtual tour, and any other listings media, check out Single Property Sites.