I’ve had the pleasure of doing several photoshoots with Leigh Tracey-Gaynair of HomeSmart. We also live in the same Highland Neighborhood and see each other regularly at the local neighborhood association’s monthly meetings. I put a series of questions to Leigh recently about her experience in the world of real estate:
1. What initially drew you to working with older, stately homes, and what do you find most rewarding about helping clients buy or sell these unique properties?
You know, I fell in love with vintage homes during my own house-hunting journey in Salem. There’s something magical about stepping into a 1920s Craftsman or a cozy Tudor Cottage and feeling the stories within those walls. What drives me now is matching clients with these architectural treasures and seeing their faces light up when they discover original wood moldings or a perfectly preserved butler’s pantry. It’s about protecting and enhancing pieces of Salem’s history while helping families create their own legacies.
2. In your experience, what are some of the most appealing features of older homes in Salem that tend to attract buyers? Are there specific architectural details or characteristics that resonate with clients?
Salem’s vintage homes, particularly in the Grant-Highland and Gaiety Hill-Bush’s Pasture Park neighborhoods, offer details you simply can’t find in new construction. Our buyers are consistently drawn to the craftsmanship – old-growth timber used in construction, hand-carved balusters, leaded glass windows, and those coveted archways. The 1920s Craftsman bungalows in the Court-Chemeketa Historic District are particularly sought after for their built-in cabinetry and signature front porches. Many also feature original hardwood floors, which were often milled right here in the Willamette Valley.
3. Have you noticed any recent trends in Salem’s real estate market, particularly regarding the demand for older homes? How do you think the market for these properties has evolved?
The market for vintage homes in Salem has seen interesting shifts in recent years. While overall inventory remains tight, we’re seeing strong interest from buyers moving down from the Portland area who are drawn to Salem’s more affordable properties. These buyers often appreciate that they can get a vintage property here for a fraction of what it would cost in Portland’s historic districts. The pandemic actually increased interest in these homes, as people wanted more space and separate home offices – features that many older homes naturally provide. There is always a market for vintage homes from the early 1900’s and Mid-Century Modern to 70’s and 80’s contemporary styles. People are drawn to their unique features and become stewards of these properties. It is truly romantic and rewarding.
Here are a few images from a shoot we did in South Salem off Croisan Creek Road earlier this year:
4. What advice would you give buyers considering purchasing an older home in Salem? Are there any unique considerations they should keep in mind?
For buyers interested in vintage properties, I always emphasize the importance of working with inspectors who specialize in older homes. It’s crucial to understand what you’re getting into – these homes often need specialized maintenance and sometimes updating of electrical or plumbing systems. I recommend budgeting for both immediate and long-term maintenance. Also, familiarize yourself with Salem’s historic district guidelines if you’re buying in one of our historic neighborhoods. While these rules protect the character of our historic areas, they can affect what modifications you can make to the property. Choosing a realtor familiar with the quirks and concerns of a vintage home is paramount in having a good experience and choosing the right property.
5. In your view, what makes Salem’s real estate market distinct from other areas in Oregon? How does the city’s character or community play into the appeal of buying an older home here?
What makes Salem unique is our remarkable preservation of entire historic neighborhoods. Unlike some cities where historic homes stand isolated among newer development, Salem has intact historic districts that maintain their original character. The Bush’s Pasture Park area, for instance, offers a complete snapshot of early 20th century architectural styles. We also have several pockets of stunning Mid-Century Modern homes in west and southeast Salem or south Salem like the highly desirable Candelaria neighborhood. Additionally, we have several designated Heritage Neighborhoods featuring vintage homes with charming character. The proximity to state government offices in these “close-in” neighborhoods means we have a stable employment base, which helps maintain property values. Plus, our location in the heart of the Willamette Valley means homeowners can enjoy both small-town charm and easy access to Portland or the coast.
I tell my clients that owning a vintage home in Salem isn’t just buying a property or being its steward – it’s becoming part of a community that values architectural heritage and character. These homes supply the owner with a lifestyle along with a beautiful place to live. Although some may require more commitment than newer properties, the rewards of owning a piece of Salem’s history are truly special.
In the dynamic world of real estate, captivating aerial imagery has become a cornerstone for showcasing properties. Integrating drone photography into your marketing strategy as a real estate agent can significantly elevate your listings, offering potential buyers a unique perspective and a comprehensive view of the property. However, the key to reaping the benefits of drone imagery lies in choosing the right drone pilot.
Here’s a guide to help you vet potential drone pilots effectively.
1. Certification and Compliance
Start by ensuring the drone pilot is FAA-certified. In the U.S., commercial drone pilots must have a Remote Pilot Certificate under the FAA’s Part 107 regulation. This certification is not just a formality; it demonstrates the pilot’s understanding of airspace regulations, safety practices, and operational requirements. Verify their certification and inquire about their understanding of local airspace restrictions, especially in areas with complex regulations like the Willamette Valley, Oregon, known for its proximity to multiple airports.
2. Portfolio and Experience
Experience matters. Review the pilot’s portfolio to assess their expertise in real estate photography. Look for variety in their work – different property types, landscapes, and architectural styles. Please pay attention to how well they capture the essence of each property and the surrounding area. An experienced drone pilot should provide a compelling narrative of the property, showcasing its best features from angles that ground-level photography can’t achieve.
Aerial photos show a dramatic view of the property in context with its surroundings.
3. Equipment and Capabilities
The quality of the drone and camera significantly affects the final output. Inquire about the type of drone and camera the pilot uses. Look for high-resolution cameras capable of capturing 4K video and high-quality stills. Additionally, consider their ability to shoot in various lighting conditions crucial for capturing properties at their most appealing times, like the golden hour.
4. Insurance and Liability
Ensure the drone pilot has liability insurance specifically for drone operations. This is crucial to protect yourself and the property owner from potential damages or accidents during the shoot. A professional drone operator should have no issue providing proof of insurance.
5. Communication and Professionalism
Effective communication is critical. The pilot should be able to understand your specific needs and translate them into stunning visuals. Their professionalism extends beyond flying skills; it includes punctuality, responsiveness, and the ability to work under varying conditions.
6. Creativity and Customization
Each property is unique, and the drone footage should reflect this. A skilled drone pilot can offer creative suggestions and customize their approach to highlight the unique features of each property. Whether capturing the expanse of a rural property in the Willamette Valley or the intricate details of an urban dwelling, their creativity can make a significant difference.
7. Testimonials and References
Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask for references or testimonials from previous clients, especially other real estate agents. Hearing about others’ experiences can provide insights into the pilot’s reliability and quality of work.
Finally…
In conclusion, the right drone pilot can transform your real estate listings, offering breathtaking views that captivate potential buyers. Focusing on these best practices ensures that your aerial imagery meets and exceeds expectations, setting your properties apart in a competitive market.
I was recently contacted to shoot a 60-second video for Harmony Communities’ Salem Green Estates, a peaceful 55+ community in NE Salem. The team found me through Bark.com and requested drone footage highlighting the beautiful neighborhood.
My first visit was in late May, where I captured several short aerial videos and a variety of still photos. I put together a draft video, but after reviewing the footage, they mentioned the property wasn’t quite ready—particularly the pool, which needed some attention to look its best on camera.
In early July, I returned to Salem Green Estates for another round of filming, spending about an hour capturing fresh drone footage and stills. After I shared a second draft video, I asked for feedback on the visuals, text, and titles. After a couple of email exchanges, we fine-tuned the details, and I was able to deliver a final version they were thrilled with. Once they approved it, I rendered the video in full resolution.
It was a great experience working with the team at Salem Green Estates—such nice people—and I enjoyed capturing the welcoming vibe of this lovely community. It’s always rewarding to be part of a project that highlights what makes a place special!
It’s been over two years since I launched Salem Realty Media in the Spring of 2022. It’s been a fun ride! As an aside, I run another business, TradeshowGuy Exhibits, but that’s another story. But I mention it because it’s significant to how I approach running Salem Realty Media. I embrace the same philosophy in Salem Realty Media as I have for the last thirteen years with TradeshowGuy Exhibits: If you look good, I look good.
Since starting the business in ’22, I knew that aerial photography was critical in the overall picture of my success. Drone photos are big in the business as they show off a property, while ground photography simply cannot. But when I started, I’d never flown a drone, and I didn’t know what it took. No matter, my good friend, Tony Marino, has a company, Aerial Northwest, that’s been doing drone photography for several years. He’s been my go-to drone pilot and has done a great job for me. But from the start, I told him that I would eventually be doing it once I was ready.
I got ready over the winter. I studied what it took to pass the Part 107 FAA UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) exam, did my homework, and, long story short, I passed the exam on May 1, which made me an officially certified UAS Pilot. In early April, I purchased a DJI Mini 4 Pro, and have spent a lot of hours learning how to fly. I’ve gotten very comfortable, so much so that yesterday morning, I was navigating through the trees in a beautiful shaded backyard, easily grabbing nice shots and staying away from the branches. And it was a piece of cake. A fun job.
With each house shoot, I learned more about what angles are best, how many pictures to take, what is pleasing to the eye, and so on. It’s not hard, and in fact, it’s great fun. But as I posted on Instagram yesterday, it’s also serious. You have to approach it from a careful, detailed, and process-oriented standpoint, going through checklists, checking out the weather, tools, etcetera.
One big thing that I think I’ve almost figured out (fingers crossed!) is the aspect of getting clearance quickly in certain airspaces. Salem is heavily regulated for drone flying, in particular, within five miles of the airport. As a pilot, I’ve learned what needs to be done to get authorization to fly in certain areas. For example, one shoot I did this week is in an area where a UAS pilot needs ATC (Air Traffic Control) authorization to fly, period. In many areas, instant authorization can be obtained to fly up to fifty feet AGL (Above Ground Level), but to fly higher, a special request must be made (with certain exceptions, drones are limited to flying up to 400 feet AGL anywhere in the country).
The challenge with the request is that once it’s been submitted, you’re told it can come within 30 days—or as much as 90. If it isn’t approved, you may never hear back from them at all. It kind of leaves you in the dark. But I’ve made a handful of requests, and they’ve all been approved, most within a few days, but that timeframe is not guaranteed.
The other thing I learned is that there is a huge community of UAS pilots. They’re all enthusiastic about the activity and willing to offer feedback and answer questions. This means that it’s not hard to get real-world experience from people who’ve been there and done that, making it all that much easier.
Want some drone shots of your next listing? Reach out. We’re happy to help!
Shooting a house from the air opens up myriad possibilities to showcase its strengths, from its location in relation to its surroundings to its size and overall layout. However, it also opens up possibilities to showcase its weaknesses, especially if the house is not adequately prepared for the photoshoot.
Sure, you could engage a photographer and have him or her come out the next day, but I would advise that you sit down with the owner and discuss how best to prepare the property for its moment in the spotlight as seen from the air. After all, first impressions are essential, and you and the owner should do all you can to ensure that the house looks good from all angles. To that end, here’s a list of items to check off before the aerial photographer shows up:
1. All People Inside
– Ensure no people are visible during the aerial photography to maintain focus on the property.
2. Vehicle Management
– Remove all cars from the driveway, and do not park directly in front of the house.
3. Trash and Recycling
– Tuck trash cans away inside the garage or place them close to the side of the house out of view.
4. Patio and Deck
– Arrange patio cushions neatly on furniture.
– Set up umbrellas to add color and dimension to the outdoor space.
5. Pool and Hot Tub
– Remove the pool cleaner and store it out of sight.
– Open the hot tub cover to display the interior, making it look inviting.
6. Lawn and Garden
– Mow the lawn and rake any fallen leaves.
– Prune overgrown shrubs and remove weeds.
– Add fresh mulch to garden beds to make the soil look rich and tidy.
– Decorate with colorful potted plants or flowers to add vibrancy.
7. Roof and Gutters
– Clean out gutters and remove any debris from the roof.
8. Outdoor Lighting
– If the shoot is scheduled for late afternoon or early evening, turn on exterior lighting to give the home a welcoming glow.
9. Sports Equipment and Toys
– Store sports equipment, bicycles, and toys out of sight to minimize clutter.
10. Fences and Walkways
– Ensure all fences are in good condition and that gates are closed.
– Sweep walkways and driveways to clear any debris or leaves.
11. Windows and Blinds
– Clean all windows to remove smudges and streaks.
– Adjust blinds or curtains to present uniformly; either all open or all closed to ensure a neat appearance from an aerial view.
This list should help ensure that the property is well-prepared and presented in its best light for aerial photography, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
In today’s competitive real estate market, standing out is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity. Aerial photography has soared in popularity, offering a distinct perspective that can significantly elevate your property listings. Here’s how to harness the power of aerial shots to captivate potential buyers and showcase your properties like never before.
Showcase the Entire Property
Aerial photography provides a comprehensive view of the entire property, highlighting features often missed at ground level. This is particularly beneficial for large estates or properties with unique landscapes. By displaying the full scope and layout of the property, including outbuildings and land, aerial shots ensure that prospective buyers can grasp the true value of the entire premises without setting foot on it.
Showing the full property and how it fits in the surrounding area is critical on some properties
Highlight the Neighborhood and Surroundings
Aerial images can encapsulate the broader context of a property’s location, showcasing proximity to amenities, access to major roadways, and even the quality of nearby schools and parks. For listings in visually stunning areas like Oregon’s Willamette Valley, aerial shots can beautifully capture the lush surroundings and scenic landscapes, adding a strong emotional pull to the visual narrative of the listing.
Delineate the Specific Lot
Outlining lot or plat lines in aerial photographs is crucial, mainly when the size of the lot is a key selling point. For instance, highlighting that the property extends beyond a visible fence can significantly enhance its appeal. Demonstrating the full scope of the lot can motivate buyers by revealing the true extent of the property, which might otherwise go unnoticed.
Differentiate from the Competition
In a sea of standard property photos, aerial imagery stands out. It provides a high-tech feel to your listing and suggests a professional marketing approach, setting the property and the realtor apart. Utilizing drones for aerial photography adds value to the presentation and boosts the perceived innovation and effort invested in marketing the property.
Optimal Lighting and Conditions
Consider the time of day and weather conditions to make the most of aerial photography. Early morning or late afternoon offers soft natural light, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your property with warm tones and long shadows. Clear, sunny days are ideal, but a dramatic cloud formation can add an intriguing element to your visuals, ensuring they grab attention and stir curiosity.
Compliance and Safety
Always ensure that aerial photography is conducted by a licensed professional, adhering to all local regulations. Safety and legality are paramount, as unauthorized drone operations can lead to fines and other legal issues.
Incorporating aerial photography into your real estate listings enhances the visual appeal and provides a fuller understanding of a property’s potential. By offering these unique bird’s-eye views, you’re not just selling a property but providing a dream and a lifestyle.
