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Starting a Real Estate Based Drone Business in 6 Easy Steps

Drones have added a new dimension to a great number of industries and services. Once a pastime for RC enthusiasts, today this technology opens up new opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to start a business. The real estate industry is one such sector that is taking advantage of the new technology. It's easy to see how stunning, high definition aerial footage of a listing would benefit a realtor's marketing efforts. In fact, a growing number of realtor's are turning to this technology to gain a competitive edge, especially for their high-end listings. Drone enthusiasts have taken notice. If you're considering a drone-based business geared towards the real estate industry, there are a number of factors to consider. Read on to learn the 6 top things to consider before you print those business cards.

Step One: Know the Rules and the Regs

It might seem like starting your business is as easy as purchasing a drone, opening the box and launching it into the sky. Well, not quite. In fact, besides securing the normal business licenses, it's important to understand what the FAA requires of all drone operators. Did you know that there are operational requirements for anyone who uses a drone to conduct business? This also includes the requirement to either hold a remote pilot airman certificate with a small UAS rating or be under the direct supervision of someone holding a remote pilot airman certificate. To learn what the rules and regulations are and, most importantly, how they impact you, visit Know Before You Fly. This non-profit organization is dedicated to educating prospective users about the safe and responsible operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

Step Two: Flight Proficiency and Safety

The next considerations are flight proficiency and safety; each are important for the initial and long-term success of your new venture. After all, work as a real estate drone photographer requires a high level of flying expertise. After all, this work involves flying in public places and over private property. One wayward move and the entire endeavor could end in disaster. Flight safety classes area a great place to start. Whether you take lessons from an approved instructor or decide to shadow an experienced pilot, it pays to put in the hours of practice. As mentioned above, the work of real estate aerial photography involves flying in public. As such, safety is crucial. A flight safety class will also help you become familiar with your drone. Once you or an appointed pilot are proficient in flying the drone it's time to consider the next step: choosing the aerial vehicle and equipment.

Step Three: The Right Drone and the Right Equipment

Before you purchase, ask yourself: what type of service do I want to provide? High definition video footage? Aerial photography? What equipment will I need to deliver those services? There are countless drones and drone packages offered today. Your answers will help make your selection a bit more manageable. The old adage remains true, you get what you pay for. Investing in a high quality drone usually means better flight capabilities and higher quality equipment. Take time to comparison shop to ensure you get the best bang for your buck. Some drones come standard with gimbals and flight stabilization software. Others do not. Such equipment ensures the videos and photos you capture are as clear as possible - something that can give you an edge over your competitors.

Step Four: Market Research, Find a Niche and Establish Pricing

It is possible, with a little advanced work, to establish yourself as the go-to real estate photography expert in your area. To do so, it's going to take some research. Find out who in your area is offering similar services and at what prices. Research how they are marketing their services. Do they have a website? Are they on social media platforms, if so, how are they using these platforms to sell their services? As you determine pricing, make sure the packages take into account all the expenses you'll incur to provide this service. Consider any pilot fees, equipment costs and the like while maintaining reasonable fees for the area. Don't limit yourself. There are other areas where your growing skills can be utilized in other industries such as building inspections or land surveying.

Step Five: Business Insurance

The drone industry is still in its formative years and, as of yet, there are no legal requirements for you to insure your drone. However, it is probably a sensible thing to do. From crashes to accidental fly-aways, there are a number of things that can go wrong in a drone related business. It is also a good idea to meet with an insurance agent to find out how to best protect your entire business. After all, crashing a drone through a client's window is certainly a distinct possibility. Its best to have coverage that protects your business for any eventuality. Getting your business insured may not seem worth it but consider the fact that damage to your drone or private property can put a hold on your business, or worse. Plus, it will give any potential clients peace of mind to know your insured.

Step 6: Keep an Eye on Costs

The main aim of starting your real estate photography business is to make money. It is easy to get carried away setting up a new business in an area you’re passionate about but a strong business mind is also required to succeed. As such, it is important to keep an eye on costs. Keep expenditure to a minimum but at the same time never scrimp on quality as this will only affect your final results and customer satisfaction. In your quest to create a successful business it is now also time to get the word out and acquire some clients. There are many ways to do this, including registering on drone services websites, reaching out to real estate companies, social media, and more. When reaching out to real estate offices persistence is important but remain courteous and professional as they can be quite busy. The drone industry and its related business possibilities are still in their infancy. Creating a drone based business now will allow you to take advantage of future business opportunities. The tips above are a great place to start.

How to Start a Drone-Based Business – A Beginners Guide

drone_business Drone is one of the buzzwords of 2016 as Unmanned Aerial Systems continue to enhance and disrupt various industries.

The capabilities and benefits of UAV’s has led many to adopt this technology. This technology has also created a myriad of additional commercial opportunities, as well.

Simply creating a successful business enterprise based on drones is not enough. Effective implementation requires careful planning and training.

With this in mind, we’ve created a guide on how to start a drone-based business for beginners.

Preparation and groundwork

If you’re interested in a drone-based business, your project starts with understanding your UAV. Familiarize yourself with your devices’ operational manual before putting it together and flying it.

Understand the FAA’s rules on flying drones and abide by them. The Know Before You Fly educational campaign offers valuable information on air traffic fundamentals and operating procedures. It is a great online resource for novice drone pilots.

Another vital component of preparation is training. Novice drone pilots need to learn how to operate their remotely piloted aircraft skillfully and safely.

Training also helps reduce operational expenses and minimize downtime due to damaged or destroyed equipment. Basics include: take-off and landing, roll, pitch, and yaw, capturing images and video.

The preparation work you do truly is the foundation on which you build your business; the better your preparation, the better your outcome.

Learning the tricks of your trade

Drones are used for a wide range of applications. As such, pilots must practice and become proficient at the piloting challenges their particular application entails.

For those in the aerial photography and cinematography sector, capturing photos and videos from the air may take some time; this is just as true for seasoned photographers.

Capturing images via drone involves different vantage points and a moving camera. And, of course, particular applications require the development of particular skill sets. For example, wedding photos and video require different angles and shots than real estate photography and videography. Applications involving aerial surveillance and mapping utilize different sets of technical aspects altogether.

No matter the business, practice ensures quality work conducted at the highest possible standard.

Permits and getting your drone-based business certified

Preparation and groundwork is invaluable but it amounts to nothing if you cannot fly due to regulatory restrictions.

As a new and growing sector, drone regulations are a work in progress. However, the basic rule of thumb is that commercial drone use is currently prohibited by the FAA. Companies that wish to use drones for commercial purposes must apply to the FAA for a Section 333 Waiver, which are issued on a case by case basis.

Granting of commercial drone use permits by the FAA began in 2014. To date over 1,500 companies have certified their businesses. Today, acquiring a permit for your drone-based business is pretty straight forward. With advice from a lawyer who specializes in drones, your business can get certified and permitted without too much hassle.

Before you apply, familiarize yourself with the FAA’s guidelines on submitting an application for an exemption. Also, review the section 333 guidelines to learn what you’re required to submit to receive authorization.

Once you understand the requirements, you’re ready to file your application on the public docket.

Currently, blanket exemptions are in force which allow commercial operators to fly below 200 feet and use aircraft that weigh less than 55 pounds. Operators must follow restrictions such as keeping a certain distance away from airports and manned aircraft, as well as daytime and visual line of sight rules.

For any requirements that fall outside of the blanket exemptions, commercial drone operators need to wait for their permit before they can begin operations.

Choosing the right drone for your business

Unmanned aerial systems have quickly evolved from a pastime for drone enthusiasts to indispensable tools in a variety of sectors. But each industry requires a drone that meets certain requirements. Drone selection is usually based on the services you'll provide.

While most drones are similar in design and operation, some are packaged for particular applications. Industry specific drones are often equipped with unique payloads and technologies.

The DJI’s Phantom 4 and the Parrot Disco FPV, for example, are popular choices for aerial photography and video. Depending on your budget, the technology and ability of the drone, there is a wide array from which to choose that range in price from $300 up to well over $1000.

Drones designed for surveying and/or mapping purposes come at a higher price tag because of the hardware and software requirements for such applications.

Professional surveying drones can cost up to $10,000 or more, depending on the model. Usually, these systems are packaged with surveying specific technologies such as RGB and NIR cameras, high resolution imaging, longer flight times, autonomous flight, and faster speeds.

For the budget conscious, less expensive drones can capture aerial surveying images and inspection. However, creating a professional business with a quality product does require investment in a more robust system.

Lastly, an investment in a good drone requires further expenditure on accessories and software. Items such as spare batteries to limit down-times, replacement parts in the event of crashes, and software such as photo editing tools and data storage are essential in keeping a drone-based business running smoothly.

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Launching your business and getting the word out

Based on the number of commercial exemptions granted by the FAA, the interest in creating drone-based businesses is very high. And though the industry is still in its infancy, it’s vital to market your business.

The digital age has made it a little easier to market your business. Platforms such as the internet and social media are valuable resources to help level the playing field somewhat. Other recommendations include joining and contributing to professional UAV organizations that exist around the country and online. Networking with business professionals in the field can establish you and your organization as an authoritative voice in the sector.

Likewise, an online advertising budget can help increase your brand’s reach. Advertising online is less costly than traditional marketing methods and can reach millions of potential customers and clients.

UAVs are extremely popular right now, and there is no better time to start a business in the sector. With preparation, effort and investment your drone-based business can succeed.

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