FAA Drone Rules for Real Estate Agents

If you’re a real estate agent using drones for property photography, here’s what you need to know to stay compliant with FAA drone rules:

• Certification: You need an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107). Pass the FAA exam, renew periodically, and stay updated on regulations.
• Drone Registration: Register each drone at the FAA DroneZone for $5. Include a visible registration number on the drone.
• Flight Rules: Fly only during daylight, within your line of sight, and avoid restricted airspace. Always get property owner permission.
• Safety: Keep a safe distance from people, vehicles, and buildings. Inspect the area before flying and follow FAA safety protocols.

Hiring professional drone services like HomeJab simplifies compliance and ensures high-quality results for $249–$499, saving you time and effort.

FAA License Requirements

Remote Pilot Certificate Basics

If you’re a real estate professional using drones for property photography, you’ll need an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107 regulations. This certification ensures that drone operators meet safety requirements for commercial use.

How to Get Certified

To earn your Remote Pilot Certificate, you’ll need to:

• Be at least 16 years old and fluent in English.
• Study for the FAA exam using official FAA materials.
• Schedule and pass the test at an FAA-approved testing center.

After passing the exam, you’ll officially be certified. Keep in mind, staying certified means handling renewals and keeping up with any changes to FAA regulations.

Certificate Renewal

Remote Pilot Certificates must be renewed periodically. This involves completing recurrent training and staying informed about updated regulations.

Services like HomeJab provide professional aerial photography with certified pilots, ensuring compliance with FAA rules.

Real Estate Drone Laws: Avoid Fines with Licensed Drone Pilots

Drone Registration Rules

If you’re using drones for commercial real estate photography, they must be registered before you can operate them. Here’s how to get it done.

Part 107 Registration Steps

1. Visit the FAA DroneZone: Head to the official FAA DroneZone website (https://faadronezone.faa.gov).
2. Create an Account: Sign up as a commercial drone operator.
3. Submit Drone Information: Provide details like the make, model, and serial number of your drone.
4. Pay the Fee: The cost is $5 per drone.
5. Get Your Registration Number: Within 24 hours, you’ll receive a unique registration number. Make sure it’s accessible on your drone.

Your registration is valid for three years and must be renewed before it expires. Always carry both digital and physical copies of your registration certificate when flying.

Drone Marking Requirements

The FAA requires all commercial drones to have clear identification markings. Here’s what you need to know:

• The registration number must be clearly visible on the outside of the drone.
• It should be readable without needing any tools.
• The markings must withstand regular use.
• Text should remain legible from the ground at a reasonable distance.
• You can use a permanent marker, label, or engraving to display the number.

For real estate photography drones, many operators place the registration number in less conspicuous areas, like the battery compartment or under a propeller arm. This keeps the drone looking professional while staying compliant with FAA rules.

Every drone must have its unique registration number. Flying an unregistered drone for commercial purposes can lead to hefty fines and legal consequences.

Flight Rules for Property Photography

Once you’ve handled licensing and registration, it’s time to focus on safe flying practices.

Height and Visibility Limits

The FAA has specific rules to ensure drones stay clear of manned aircraft. Always keep your drone within your line of sight and fly only in clear visibility conditions.

Time and Location Restrictions

Operate your drone only during daylight hours. Check for any temporary flight restrictions or updated regulations before each flight. If you’re flying near airports or in restricted airspace, use LAANC to get the necessary authorizations.

Property and Safety Guidelines

Keep these safety tips in mind when flying:

• Get permission from the property owner before starting.
• Stay a safe distance from people, vehicles, and buildings.
• Avoid flying over crowds or moving vehicles.
• Inspect the area for potential hazards before takeoff.
• Set up a clear, obstacle-free landing zone.

If your project requires special permissions, like flying at night or over people, apply for the necessary waivers through the FAA’s official portal.

Professional Drone Photography Services

Professional drone services combine FAA compliance with efficiency and high-quality results.

Why Choose Professional Services

While flying your own drone might seem appealing, professional services deliver far better outcomes. Certified operators ensure FAA compliance and use advanced techniques to achieve stunning aerial visuals. From perfecting angles to expert post-processing, they handle it all.

HomeJab Aerial Photography

HomeJab connects real estate agents with certified drone operators who are well-versed in FAA regulations and real estate photography. Their platform simplifies the process of obtaining top-notch aerial photos and videos, with media typically delivered within 24 hours of the shoot ^[1].

“HomeJab’s photographers always do a wonderful job! This time, Mr. Vincent did drone flyover and still photography that showed my listing beautifully!” – Betsy Moston ^[1]

HomeJab offers packages that include both still photos and video footage, with pricing between $249 and $499.

Self-Operation vs. Professional Services

Here’s what sets professional services apart:

• Operating your own drone requires investing in equipment, FAA certification, and taking on full legal responsibility.
• Professional services eliminate these hurdles, offering consistent, high-quality results within 24 to 48 hours.

“This was my first time using HomeJab and I was extremely impressed. The website was easy to schedule a photoshoot, the response was quick, and the photos were delivered within 48 hours. The finished photos were OUTSTANDING! I was a little nervous about what we would get with me not being at the site, but I couldn’t have been happier. Also, the prices were very reasonable. Can’t wait to use them again on other projects.” – BWE Investment Sales ^[1]

Professional services not only ensure FAA compliance but also deliver reliable quality. With HomeJab’s 4.8-star rating from 904 reviews ^[1], it’s clear why choosing professional drone photography is the safer, smarter option for aerial visuals.

Summary

Drone operation for real estate photography requires following FAA regulations and having the necessary expertise to get the job done right.

Hiring professional drone photography services simplifies the process. These providers handle all compliance issues and deliver consistent, high-quality results with quick turnaround times.

“Our high-quality real estate photos, videos, and interactive tours will supercharge your listings and help you sell quickly.” – HomeJab ^[1]

Here’s a breakdown of the differences between doing it yourself and using professional services:

Consideration	Self-Operation	Professional Services
Initial Investment	Equipment costs + FAA certification fees	No upfront investment
Legal Responsibility	Full liability for compliance	Managed by the provider
Time Investment	Training + certification + shooting + editing	None – just schedule and receive
Turnaround Time	Variable	24-48 hours guaranteed
Quality Assurance	Depends on personal skill level	Consistently professional results

This comparison makes it clear: professional services save time, reduce hassle, and ensure compliance. Real estate agents can focus on selling properties while leaving aerial photography to the experts. With pricing between $249 and $499, these services provide an efficient and straightforward solution for delivering impressive results.

FAQs