Want your property listing to stand out online? High-quality aerial photos and videos can make all the difference—showcasing the full scale, layout, and beauty of a home in a way ground-level shots simply can’t.
Whether you’re a real estate agent, property manager, or homeowner working with a drone pilot, here’s a complete checklist to ensure your next drone shoot is professional, legal, and visually stunning.
1. Verify the Drone Pilot Is FAA-Certified
This is non-negotiable. Any drone used for real estate marketing must be operated by a pilot certified under FAA Part 107.
Why it matters:
- Ensures legal compliance
- Protects your listing from liability
- Guarantees the pilot has knowledge of airspace and safety rules
Pro Tip: All pilots on Aero National Drones (AND) are pre-verified for FAA Part 107 certification—so you never have to guess.
2. Schedule the Shoot for the Right Time of Day
Lighting can make or break a shoot. For most listings, the best time is:
- Golden Hour – Just after sunrise or before sunset for soft, warm light
- Midday – If you want evenly lit rooflines and fewer shadows
Check the weather forecast ahead of time. Clear skies = clean shots. Cloudy or rainy days can limit visibility and delay flights.
3. Prepare the Property (Exterior)
Treat the drone shoot like a professional open house—everything should look polished.
Before the pilot arrives:
- Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and clear driveways
- Remove cars, trash bins, and clutter
- Open patio umbrellas and pool covers (if applicable)
- Sweep patios, walkways, and driveways
- Turn on exterior lights if the shoot is near sunset
Small details make a big difference from the air.
4. Know Which Shots You Want Captured
A great pilot will guide you, but it helps to plan out the key visuals.
Must-Have Shots:
- Front elevation (straight-on from above)
- Top-down view of entire lot
- Orbiting shots around the property
- Angled flyovers showing neighborhood proximity
- Backyard and amenity features (pools, gardens, patios)
- Surrounding landmarks, roads, or natural features
Bonus Video Ideas:
- Smooth entry-to-exit fly-throughs
- Neighborhood overviews for out-of-town buyers
- Cinematic sweeps or time-lapse of golden hour lighting
You don’t need every option—just what tells the best story for that property.
5. Discuss Deliverables and Editing
Before the shoot, clarify:
- Will you receive raw files or edited footage?
- What file format do you need for your MLS or marketing platforms?
- Do you need both photos and video?
- How soon will the final content be delivered?
AND pilot profiles help you filter based on exactly what you’re looking for, so there’s no confusion post-shoot.
6. Know Local Airspace and Restrictions
Some properties may be located in controlled airspace (near airports or helipads), where special FAA approval is needed.
A certified pilot will:
- Check the airspace beforehand
- File for LAANC authorization if required
- Follow no-fly zone rules and local drone laws
With AND, you’re connecting with professionals who understand these regulations, so there’s no guesswork.
Why This Matters
A successful real estate drone shoot comes down to preparation, communication, and hiring the right professional.
With Aero National Drones (AND), you can confidently hire verified drone pilots who specialize in real estate photography—so every listing gets the attention it deserves from the sky.