By now, most realtors in the industry have heard about drone photography for real estate, what it is, why it's useful, and how it can help transform ordinary listings into ones that have the phones ringing off the hook.
But what's the best way to go about finding a drone photography company? How can you be sure you're getting the most out of your drone photography service? Unfortunately, with the proliferation and relative affordability of drone equipment, companies claiming to be experts in the business have mushroomed and it's easy for you to work with someone who isn't qualified.
To that end, we've compiled a list of the top 10 tips on drone photography for realtors, basically things you should know before working with a drone company.
Do your research
Not all drone photography companies are created equal. Some may have more experience than others, some may use higher quality equipment, and some may simply be more reputable than others. It's important to do your research and find a drone photography company that you feel comfortable working with.
Ask for referrals
If you know other realtors who have used drone photography services, ask them for referrals. They'll be able to give you first-hand accounts of their experiences and let you know if they were happy with the results.
Get quotes from multiple companies
Once you've narrowed down your choices, get quotes from each of the drone photography companies you're considering. This will help you compare pricing and services so you can make the best decision for your needs.
Ask about the quality of their equipment
Not all drone companies use the same quality of equipment. Some may use lower-quality cameras that produce subpar results, while others use top-of-the-line cameras that produce stunning images. It's important to find out what kind of equipment a drone photography company uses before you make your final decision.
Find out what kind of editing services they offer
Most drone photography companies will offer some level of editing, but the quality of their services can vary greatly. Some may simply crop and resize your photos, while others will offer more comprehensive editing services that can make your photos pop. Be sure to find out what kind of editing services are included in the price you're quoted.
Ask about their turnaround time
When you're trying to sell a listing, time is of the essence. You need to get those photos up on the MLS as soon as possible so potential buyers can start seeing them. Find out what kind of turnaround time the drone photography company you're considering offers so you can be sure they can meet your needs.
Make sure they're licensed and insured
Any reputable drone photography company should be licensed and insured. This will protect you in case anything goes wrong during the shoot, and it will also protect the drone company in case they damage your property. At Western Mass Drones, all of our drone pilots are fully FAA Certified, licensed, and insured. We also make sure that regular training and certification courses are conducted to keep them at the top of their game.
Ask to see examples of their work
Any drone photography company worth its salt will be able to show you examples of their work. This will give you a good idea of the quality of their work and whether or not they're a good fit for your needs.
Read online reviews
Before you make your final decision, be sure to read online reviews of the drone photography companies you're considering. This can give you some insight into the quality of their work and their customer service.
Get everything in writing
Once you've decided on a drone photography company, be sure to get everything in writing. This includes the price you're paying, the services you're receiving, and the turnaround time you can expect. This will protect you in case anything goes wrong and will give you peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of.
By following these 10 tips, you can be sure you're working with the best drone photography company in Western Massachusetts for your needs and getting the most out of their services. If you take the time to do your research and ask the right questions, you can be sure you'll be happy with the results.