Marketing a real estate property is a tough task and requires certain skills and practices to help you stand out and above the crowd.
Listings online generate the most lead and the competition is getting tougher by the day.
Potential buyers begin their search online so you need to produce pictures that offer a different perspective and generate interest.
One sure way is the use of aerial photography and videography by using the best drone for real estate.
The introduction of consumer drones changed the entire game and is going to help you capture breathtaking imagery from a bird-eye view.
If you are interested in the best drone for real estate photography, you are definitely in the right place.
Regardless of your price point, join us as we talk about a few units that are suitable for real estate and what they have to offer.
Drone
Features
Price
Best drone for real estate photos and videos
- Flight range: 4.3 miles
- Flight time: 30 minutes
- Weight: 250g
At the top of the list, we have a drone from the drone giant, DJI which comes as no surprise.
DJI is famous in the consumer drone market due to its high-quality products loaded with a ton of advanced features.
The DJI Phantom 4 Pro is probably one of the best drones for real estate photos and videos.
It comes with a 1” CMOS sensor that can capture 4k/60fps videos and 20MP stills.
The unit comes with a mechanical shutter that reduces image and video distortion for cleaner imagery even when flying at high speeds.
Flight performance is great with a flight time of 30 minutes, a maximum flight range of 4.3 miles, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing and avoidance.
Also integrated into this unit are multiple automated flight modes and camera modes that make capturing videos and photos a breeze.
All in all, the Phantom 4 Pro while not exactly cheap is a great versatile unit that can capture real estate photos and 4K videos and other uses as well.
Read more on the Phantom 4 Pro in the DJI Phantom 4 Professional review.
- Camera with 1-inch 20MP sensor the onboard camera has been redesigned to use a 1-inch Megapixel CMOS...
- Five-directions of obstacle sensing
- Remote controller with built-in screen the Phantom 4 Pro controller integrates an upgraded...
- Mobile App: DJI GO 4. It will not work with 3rd party apps
- Flight range: 5 miles
- Flight time: 31 minutes
- Weight: 907g
We have yet another DJI drone and that is because the brand is just that good and much preferred.
The DJI Mavic 2 Pro is an awesome drone that captures 4K videos and comes with a plethora of flight and camera modes for cinematic shots.
Like the previous DJI drone mentioned in this article, it isn’t exactly cheap but for the price, it is worth every single dollar.
The camera also features a 1” CMOS imaging sensor for improved low light performance.
Capture stunning videos in 4K with HDR mode, ActiveTrack, Panoramas, Free, Circle, WayPoint, and Hyperlapse for some professional-quality shots that cannot be matched.
You’ll have a flight time of 31 minutes and the ability to fly out to 5 miles which is more than you’ll need.
The obstacle avoidance technology ensures that both you and the seller’s home are protected from accidental crashes and bumps.
In the end, the DJI Mavic 2 Pro may be limited for professional filmmakers but is just right for real estate photographers and videographers.
- Equipped with a Hasselblad L1D-20c camera with a 20MP 1” CMOS Sensor, the Mavic 2 camera drone...
- Up to 31 minutes flight time, 44 mph max speed, 907G takeoff weight, 3-axis gimbal for steady shots,...
- Functions include ActiveTrack 2.0, Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing, Hyperlapse, Low-Noise Design,...
- The standard remote controller offers up to 135 minutes of battery life on a full charge. Use with...
- DJI GO 4 App requires iOS 10.0.2, Android 5.0 or above. Compatible devices include: iPhone 11 Pro...
- What you get: DJI Mavic 2 Pro, Intelligent Flight Battery, Gimbal Protector, Remote Controller, 3x...
- Flight range: 5.5 miles
- Flight time: 40 minutes
- Weight: 2.1kg
Next, we have the Autel Robotics EVO II that gives you a chance to experience cutting-edge technology in video resolution.
It is the first consumer device to shoot 8k videos and capture high-resolution images, all at an affordable price.
This unit cost about the same as some of the DJI’s models and the camera quality for stills is about the same if not better.
Get 48MP drone pictures for real estate with its ½” Quad Bayer Sensor for remarkable imagery to elevate your photography skills.
It can also work with interchangeable payloads and you can alternate between the 8K, 6K, and DUAL Thermal/8K payload options.
This beast also performs well in the sky and has a flight time of 40 minutes with speeds of 44.8 mph, thanks to its 7100mAh battery.
It transmits HD footage to the controller’s OLED screen from 5.6 miles away while the 12 omnidirectional sensors ensure the drone is safe at all times while capturing amazing shots.
All things considered, the Autel Robotics EVO II is an affordable drone for real estate without compromising on quality.
The EVO II is so versatile that it can also work as an agriculture drone to help farmers monitor crop health, etc.
- 40 MINUTES OF STABLE FLIGHT TIME: From inspecting electrical cell towers to surveying property...
- LIGHTWEIGHT FOLDABLE DESIGN: Deployed in under 30 seconds, the 2.5lb EVO II is ideal for rapid...
- PATENTED LOCKING PROPELLER DESIGN: No tools required, quick release foldable propellers for the EVO...
- INTERCHANGEABLE PAYLOADS: Designed for versatile operations, pilots can alternate between the 8K,...
- LIVE CONTROLLER VIDEO FEED: Control almost all aspects of your mission right off the 3.3 inch OLED...
- Flight range: 1.2 km
- Flight time: 30 minutes
- Weight: 520g
If you are looking for an affordable option, the Ruko F11 Pro drone fits the bill.
It is made from high-quality aluminum which means that it can survive mishaps in the air and on the ground.
The 2500mAh battery gives you a long flight time of 30 minutes which is enough to capture all you need and then some.
You will be able to fly the unit out to 1.2 km and come with a wide range of intelligent features like headless mode, one key landing/takeoff, return to home and follow me mode.
The unit is equipped with a 4K UHD camera that captures high-resolution and clear photos and 2.9k video for stunning clarity, deep contrast, and vivid colors.
The compact controller fits comfortably in your hand and the easy-to-use controls make flying the unit an enjoyable experience.
Overall, the Ruko F11 Pro drone is feature-rich, easy to use, and considering the price gives you the best bang for your buck.
- 【6𝟎 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐅𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞】F11PRO camera drone equipped...
- 【𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐢𝐟𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬】This 4K...
- 【𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐮𝐧 𝐭𝐨...
- 【𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝟔 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞】The...
- 【𝟒𝐊 𝐔𝐇𝐃 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐚】Experience splendid 4k Ultra HD picture quality...
- 【𝐆𝐏𝐒 𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞...
- 【𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐫...
- 【𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐦 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬】 ① The default Beginner Mode will automatically set up...
- Flight range: 2.5 miles
- Flight time: 25 minutes
- Weight: 320g
The Parrot PF728000 ANAFI drone is ultra-compact and is one of the most portable units you can get for real estate.
It weighs just 320 grams and measures 2.6 x 2.5 x 9.6″ when folded and 6.9 x 2.5 x 9.4″ unfolded.
However, don’t let its compact nature fool you, this unit can capture some impressive aerial photos and videos.
It features a foldable design that makes it easy to fit into a backpack for easy transport and can be unfolded and flying in less than 3 seconds.
After launching it into the air, you can capture extraordinary videos in 4K and 21MP HDR enhanced photos.
The unit also comes with a 3-axis stabilization system with a 180-degree gimbal to guarantee clear images anytime, anywhere.
Flight performance is awesome with a flight time of 25 minutes and a flight range up to 2.5 miles.
At the end of the day, the Parrot PF728000 ANAFI drone is a must-have for real estate if you’re a busy agent and constantly on the go.
- This drone with a camera equipped with f/2.4 wide angle ASPH lens, HDR, and up to 2.8 times digital...
- The ANAFI Parrot Drone can have up to 25 minutes of filmed flight time thanks to an intelligent...
- With its ultra-compact and lightweight carbon frame (320 g), this quadcopter drone unfolds in less...
- Equipped with a Parrot Skycontroller 3 folding remote control, the ANAFI Parrot Drone can be located...
- Software updates can make changes to existing features, further enhance ANAFI’s reliability and...
- Egyptian (Publication Language)
Advantages of using drones for real estate
Using drones for real estate purposes can lead to various advantages such as:
Create compelling images
Before consumer drones, real estate agents would rely on ground-based photography which isn’t quite as impressive as aerial images which can add a bit more appeal.
Agents can now capture stunning and dramatic images from above at different angles to show to potential clients.
Not only can these images look extremely professional when taken by a drone with a good camera but they invoke a sense of awe and interest.
Interesting virtual tours
Create wonderful virtual stories with a drone since some of these units can be flown indoors.
Fly the drone throughout the house and combine the video with a professional voice-over to provide a more natural tour than station-based photography.
Highlight property features
Using a drone to highlight features such as a pool, landscaping, back yard, walking paths shows it off from a different perspective.
Capturing footage from a drone can also show nearby parks, schools, and other important features that buyers are looking for.
Attract sellers
While the goal of every real estate agent is to attract buyers, capturing breathtaking imagery will have sellers looking to contract your services to help them sell their properties.
Drone imagery will show sellers that you use every opportunity to make sure their property looks appealing and piques the interest of potential buyers.
Stand out
Drone images and videos will help you to stand out above the rest.
Listings that have compelling visual elements and provide more information sell faster.
Save money
Gone are the days of hiring a helicopter or airplane when filming or taking pics of properties that span a large area.
Drone photography and videography are cheaper and easier to arrange.
Limitations of drones in real estate photography
Drone footage offers a different perspective and may garner more attention but there are a few limitations to these devices in the real estate world.
There are certain situations where an unmanned aerial vehicle may not be the best bet.
Fixed position photography
Oftentimes, you may be required to capture a certain area while avoiding an unpleasant feature or to make a space or yard look larger than it is.
Drones are sometimes equipped with wide lenses which would make fixed position photography difficult.
Small spaces
Some drones cannot be flown indoors and may not be able to fly around in small spaces such as condos and apartments.
In these instances, you’re better off with a handheld camera.
Hidden Homes
If the property you’re photographing has trees all around, it will be impossible for the drone to capture any imagery.
The same will happen if the property is shrouded by other buildings that can cast shadows or block the view altogether.
Street-level shots
One of the main shots that potential buyers look for is street-level shots.
These shots give them a first-hand look at what to expect if they do book a tour so they’ll know what it looks like from outside before going in.
Things to look for in a real estate drone
Before purchasing a drone for real estate purposes, there are a few things to look for to avoid ending up with a unit that isn’t ideal.
Camera quality
The first thing you need to look for in a real estate drone is the camera.
Look for a camera that comes with high-resolution, high megapixels pictures as they will be sharper, clearer, and more detailed than others of lower resolution.
Only a few drone manufactures produce units with the camera that you need so pay special attention to the brand you choose.
For the best camera drones, read the best drone with camera post.
Video quality
4k videos are all the hype right now and most real estate agents want a drone that can capture 4k videos.
This is because 4K videos are sharper with higher resolutions and capture clean, clear, and crisp imagery.
However, real estate videos don’t necessarily need to be in 4k as a drone that can capture 1080p videos is good enough to capture all you need to showcase a property.
Stabilization
Drones are flown in the air and can be at the mercy of the wind sometimes which can toss and turn the drone which can lead to blurry and unclear captures.
This is why you need a drone that comes with some type of stabilization system.
Some models come with a 3 or 6 -axis gimbal stabilization system while others are equipped with electronic image stabilization.
Flight time
A drone with a minimum of 20 minutes flight time can work for real estate.
Flight time is one of the most crucial factors to consider because you want to complete the job in one flight on one battery.
You can purchase a few spare batteries and keep them handy if the property is exceptionally large.
Flight range
The maximum range of a drone isn’t much of a big deal since most places require that you keep the drone in sight at all times.
However, the maximum range mentioned by the manufacturer gives you an idea of the signal strength between the controller and the drone itself.
You need to be able to control the unit even when various obstacles are present.
The higher the range, the better the signal strength and control.
Obstacle avoidance
Obstacle avoidance is important here because some homes may have trees and other obstacles that the drone can crash into while filming.
This feature can save you from hitting something that can potentially damage the drone.
Build
Drones may or may not fall, bump into things or simply crash for unknown reasons.
You need a drone that is made from durable materials that can withstand any minor mishaps and get back in the air without costing you too much.
Look for a drone that is well designed, lightweight and portable since you are always on the move from property to property.
Price
Last but not least, let’s talk about the cost of a real estate drone.
You may feel you need to spend an excessive amount of money on the best drone for real estate photos.
This is far from the truth and you can find some pretty affordable units on the market that will get the job done.
Do your research and choose a drone that gives you the best value for the money.
You will find that with savings, you may be able to purchase a backup drone in the event something goes wrong with your main unit.
Drone
Features
Price