Best Drone for Real Estate: Top 6 Drones

Whether you’re a real estate agent, a property developer, or a drone operator, choosing the best drone for real estate can transform your marketing strategy. With aerial views becoming a key element in property listings, it’s essential to invest in the right gear for the job. This guide explores top choices available in Australia and explains how to stay compliant with CASA regulations while delivering top-tier results.

Why Drones Are Essential in Real Estate Photography

Drones provide unique aerial perspectives that ground cameras simply can’t capture. Aerial photography for real estate enhances listings by showing layout, scale, neighbourhood context, and features like pools, gardens, or nearby amenities. In a competitive market, stunning aerial visuals can increase engagement and drive quicker sales.

Beyond just photography, drones are also used for video walk-throughs, mapping for development, and even 3D modelling. As a result, real estate professionals are increasingly relying on drone operators to tell the full story of a property from every angle. The question of “what drone is best for real estate photography” becomes more than just a spec sheet comparison — it’s about use case, skill level, and legal compliance too.

Top Recommendations: Best Drone for Real Estate

Below are our top picks for the best drone for real estate photography in Australia, with options to suit all experience levels and budgets.

1. DJI Air 3S

This mid-range drone is ideal for real estate. It boasts dual cameras (wide-angle and 3x telephoto), 4K 100fps video, and excellent low-light performance. Its intelligent flight modes like Spotlight and Waypoint make it great for repeatable cinematic movements. So, is the DJI Air 3S good for real estate photography? Absolutely — it’s one of the most balanced choices for value and performance.

It also has subject tracking features that let you orbit or follow key features on a property, making it perfect for dynamic shoots. If you’re a licensed operator looking to scale up from entry-level gear, the Air 3S is an outstanding choice. Check out the DJI Air 3S drone here.

2. DJI Mini 4 Pro

For lightweight portability and intelligent features, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is hard to beat. Weighing under 249g, it avoids some regulatory hurdles and still offers 4K/60fps video, omnidirectional obstacle sensing, and vertical shooting. If you’re working in tight suburban areas or need a lightweight travel setup, this is a solid pick. Is the DJI Mini 4 Pro good for real estate photography? Yes — for most listings, especially residential homes, it will more than suffice.

The vertical video mode also makes it easier to create social media content for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. If you’re a real estate agent managing your own content, this drone is simple to fly and great for DIY property shoots. Check out the DJI Mini 4 Pro drone here.

3. DJI Mini 2

Looking for the most budget-friendly option? Is the DJI Mini 2 good for real estate photography? It can be — but only in the right conditions. With 12MP stills and 4K video, it’s suitable for basic aerial imagery. However, it lacks obstacle avoidance and advanced tracking. Great for entry-level agents or trialling aerials before upgrading.

It’s important to note that the DJI Mini 2 is better suited to wide-open properties without many trees or power lines. Consider it a stepping stone rather than a long-term solution if you plan to scale your video production. Check out the DJI Mini 2 drone here.

4. DJI Mavic 3 Pro

If you need premium-quality real estate videos for high-end listings, the Mavic 3 Pro is the gold standard. With a 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad sensor, adjustable aperture, and up to 5.1K video, it’s built for professionals. It’s also ideal for post-production workflows. Best drone camera for real estate? For quality, yes — but it comes at a higher price point.

This drone is popular with production houses and experienced pilots. If you’re marketing multi-million-dollar estates or producing agency showreels, the Mavic 3 Pro will handle it with ease. It also integrates well with editing suites like DaVinci Resolve or Premiere Pro. Check out the DJI Mavic 3 Pro drone here.

Best FPV Drone for Real Estate

FPV drones offer an immersive fly-through experience perfect for property walk-throughs. Think of soaring down hallways, through open doors, or flying from street to backyard. If you’re after the best FPV drone for real estate, look for a lightweight cinewhoop-style drone with a GoPro or DJI O3 Air Unit. These are used by experienced pilots for dynamic interior and exterior footage.

FPV drone for real estate isn’t just a gimmick — it can make a listing feel like a video game walkthrough, especially for architecturally interesting homes. These drones require manual flying and specialised training, so they’re best operated by professionals.

Check out our services for real estate drone photography if you’re not ready to fly FPV yourself — it’s a high-skill style that takes practice to master.

How Are Drones Used in the Real Estate Industry?

Exterior flyovers showing roof, land size, and neighbouring homes
Neighbourhood and lifestyle shots
FPV fly-throughs inside the property
Highlighting features like pools, patios, or proximity to the beach
Progress shots for developments and construction updates
Showcasing acreage, farmland, and large estates in one frame
Live streaming auctions and open homes for remote buyers

Do I Need a Licence to Fly a Drone for Real Estate?

Yes — if you’re flying commercially in Australia, even for free, you must comply with CASA regulations. That includes registering your drone and holding the appropriate licence.

For drones under 2kg, the excluded category applies, but for repeat or advanced operations, we strongly recommend obtaining your Remote Pilot Licence (RePL). It allows for greater flexibility, safer operations, and more clients will expect it as a basic qualification.

You also must not fly over people, near emergency operations, or higher than 120 metres without specific approvals. If you’re unsure about these limits, training through a licensed school like SkyMedia Training is the best next step.

Final Thoughts

Real estate listings with high-quality drone footage stand out. Whether you’re investing in your first drone or upgrading to capture better footage, knowing the best drone for real estate can give you an edge in a competitive market. Don’t forget to fly legally, and if you’re not sure where to begin, consider getting your RePL or hiring a licensed operator like us at Flying Glass.

To learn more or enquire about filming your next property, visit our real estate drone photography page.