Over the past year and a half as a licensed FAA drone pilot, I’ve fielded a lot of great questions from real estate agents — and some surprised reactions too. Most people assume that if I show up with a drone, I can just launch it into the sky, fly where I want, and get the shots we need. Seems reasonable, right?
But here’s the truth: I don’t control the airspace. The FAA does.
That means, even though I’m the one holding the controller, the Federal Aviation Administration is telling me where and when I can fly. And they’ve made it very clear: anything with wings (even with propellers) that lifts off the ground — even just a foot or two — falls under their jurisdiction.
⏱️ The Timing Challenge
I get it — when you’re preparing to list a property, time matters. Agents want to go live as soon as possible, and that often means turning around photos overnight. That’s absolutely doable for ground photography. But when it comes to aerial shots, the process involves more than just charging a battery.
If the listing is in controlled airspace (and much of Salem is), I may need to submit a flight request to the FAA — and wait for approval before I can legally fly. That’s not always something that can be done in 24 hours.
✈️ What Is LAANC, Anyway?
To streamline operations, the FAA created LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability). This tool helps licensed drone pilots:
Check airspace restrictions in real time
Get instant authorization in certain areas
Submit requests for further coordination if needed
In many parts of Salem, I can get approval within minutes. But in other zones — especially closer to the airport — it may take up to 72 hours to get cleared for flight.
📌 The Legal Side (and Why It Matters)
If a drone pilot skips the FAA process and flies anyway, they risk losing their license. And without that license, they can’t legally operate a drone for commercial work — including real estate marketing.
That’s why timing and planning matter. If aerial photos are a key part of your listing strategy (and they should be), it’s always smart to:
Let your media team know early
Tell us where the property is located
Let us check the airspace while you finalize the listing
🧭 The Bottom Line
If it were up to me, I’d launch the drone the moment I arrive and grab the highest, widest, most dramatic aerials possible. But safe, legal drone photography means working with the FAA, and that means we sometimes need to wait for their go-ahead.
The good news? We’ve made the process simple for you. I’ve created a free 2-page guide to drone flight planning in Salem, with a visual FAA map, zone definitions, and tips for timing your shoot.
I’ve done a handful of photoshoots for Shelby Looney of HomeStar Brokers and noticed that she worked a lot with communities that focus on the 55+ market. I asked if she’d be willing to answer a few questions about her work in the market segment.
What inspired you to focus on the 55+ demographic in your real estate career, and how has this focus shaped your approach to serving clients?
One of the first transactions of my career happened to be a listing in Salemtowne, which is a 55+ community in West Salem. I wanted to provide as much information about the community as possible to support my listing, and that included meeting quite a few of the residents. I learned that this particular demographic is very active, social and ready to enjoy their “golden years” with similar-minded individuals.
I consider myself to be protective by nature and that plays an important role in serving my clients of all ages. Often when working with the 55+ population, my clients are down-sizing, moving closer to family, living on a fixed income, etc. and requires me to be sympathetic to the emotions involved and act as an advocate on their behalf.
2. Can you share what makes developments like Salemtowne particularly appealing to 55+ buyers, and what features they tend to prioritize when choosing a home?
Developments such as Salemtowne provide a sense of connection and safety for the 55+ population different than a typical subdivision. Many people are considering retirement, if not already retired, around the age of 55 and no longer need a large, family home where schools or proximity to jobs are important. By offering smaller, single-level homes, often surrounding a community center or golf-course, these unique developments promote homeowners to get involved in social activities and events with others of the same age to encourage healthy living, both mentally and physically, and at a more relaxed pace.
3. What unique challenges or opportunities have you encountered while helping clients transition to 55+ communities in the mid-Willamette Valley?
A common misconception about 55+ communities is that they are for “old people” and that is just not the case. Often times after touring these developments, buyers find that they are going to be more active than ever before and with more opportunities to connect with people that have common interests. I see almost an immediate excitement for my clients to find the perfect home and begin a new chapter in their lives once they see how much fun they are going to have.
Making the decision to buy a home in a 55+ development can also bring challenges. For instance, the supply or inventory may not match the demand or availability and these are not the types of communities that developers are building in our current market. That can stall the process for a buyer when they are considering a home purchase within a 55+ community. When homes are listed for sale, they are often outdated and buyers have to consider the time and expense needed to get them updated and move-in ready.
4. How has your experience in real estate in the mid-Willamette Valley helped you better understand the needs of this demographic and the local housing market?
Understanding the needs of the 55+ client is not limited to experience in any particular area; however, I am from the mid-Willamette Valley, more specifically Salem, and that has given me an advantage when introducing communities available to this demographic. I have found that most of my buyers have already chosen which development they want to pursue because of existing relationships with others that are living within them. The features and amenities speak for themselves, and therefore I do not have to convince buyers but rather obtain knowledge about each specific community in order to best fit their needs. 55+ communities can be immune to the highs and lows of traditional housing markets and this is largely due to supply and demand. Also, it isn’t uncommon for buyers to pay cash when making a home purchase at this stage of life, so the current interest rates are less of a factor.
5. What advice would you give to someone considering buying a home in a 55+ community, and how do you help guide the clients through that decision?
My advice, first and foremost, is spend some time in the community. Sign up for the newsletter, go for walks and meet the people living within it, ask what they love about where they live and make connections. Consider your timeline, this process can take longer than expected when looking for the home or community that meets all criteria. Rely on me to educate and guide you through the process to better ensure that when the right home becomes available, you are ready. As with all home purchases, there is an emotional component and it can feel even more significant when making this transition to live in a 55+ community. This is a perfect opportunity to evaluate what is most important for your life in this chapter.
I have found immense joy and gratitude working with clients in the 55+ demographic. I take pride in my role as their agent and will eagerly work until they are happy and settled in their new environment.
Thanks to Shelby for sharing her thoughts on this important piece of the real estate market. Feel free to reach out to her here.
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.
The real estate industry is constantly evolving, and 2025 is no exception. Economic shifts, technological advancements, and changing consumer expectations mean that real estate agents must stay on their toes to remain successful. Whether it’s navigating rising interest rates or mastering new tech tools, the ability to adapt is key.
In this post, we’ll explore the biggest challenges agents are likely to face in the next year and provide actionable strategies to tackle them. From managing inventory shortages to building a strong personal brand, here’s what you need to know to stay ahead of the curve.
Challenges Real Estate Agents Face in 2025
1. Rising Interest Rates and Market Uncertainty
– The Challenge: Higher mortgage rates could lead to fewer buyers and longer listing times.
– The Solution: Educate clients on creative financing options, target cash buyers, and hone local market expertise to navigate fluctuations.
2. Inventory Shortages
– The Challenge: Limited homes for sale can create intense buyer competition.
– The Solution: Build relationships with builders, promote off-market listings, and help sellers see the advantages of listing now.
3. Evolving Technology
– The Challenge: Staying up to date with new tools like AI property searches and blockchain transactions.
– The Solution: Adopt tech that enhances client experience, such as virtual tours and CRM systems, and stay informed on industry innovations.
4. Changing Consumer Expectations
– The Challenge: Buyers and sellers demand faster responses and customized services.
– The Solution: Use high-quality marketing materials, maintain consistent communication, and provide neighborhood insights.
5. Increased Competition
– The Challenge: Competing with big platforms, iBuyers, and discount brokerages.
– The Solution: Differentiate through local expertise, strong branding, and niche specialties like luxury or eco-friendly homes.
6. Compliance and Regulatory Changes
– The Challenge: Adapting to new laws about fair housing, disclosures, and compensation.
– The Solution: Stay educated through regular training, inform clients about regulatory changes, and consult industry professionals when needed.
7. Maintaining Work-Life Balance
– The Challenge: Longer hours and pressure to secure deals.
– The Solution: Use time-blocking strategies, delegate non-core tasks, and invest in mobile tools for efficient work on the go.
8. Focus on Sustainability
– The Challenge: Buyers increasingly seek energy-efficient and eco-friendly homes.
– The Solution: Highlight green features in listings, collaborate with energy experts, and stay updated on local sustainability incentives.
Conclusion:
As the real estate market evolves, the agents who thrive are those who embrace change and tackle challenges head-on. By staying informed, adopting the right tools, and focusing on client relationships, you can turn potential roadblocks into opportunities for growth.
2025 may bring its share of uncertainties, but with the right strategies, it’s also full of potential for success. What are you doing to prepare for the challenges ahead? Let us know in the comments!
Introduction: I recently had the chance to reach out to Mark Thomas and Debbie Dailey of Realty One Group, two experienced real estate agents who bring a thoughtful perspective to the current housing market. Though I’ve only had the pleasure of working with them on a few shoots so far—two of which included aerial photography—their appreciation for high-quality visuals highlighting a home’s details was evident from our first collaboration. They discovered my services through a referral from a fellow client, Leigh Tracey-Gaynair, after seeing a set of photos Mark described as capturing the “architectural” essence of the property.
In our Q&A session, Mark and Debbie shared their insights on the effects of the recent dip in interest rates, evolving buyer expectations, and the challenges their clients face in today’s market:
1. How has the recent drop in interest rates affected your business? Are you seeing more activity from buyers and sellers?
The most recent drop of ½ a point on Sept. 20th probably won’t have much impact on the housing market until sometime into the first quarter of next year. The discussion or buzz around rate drops does have some influence on the buyers currently active in the market. It is encouraging to see some signs of movement in that direction. The hope will be to buy while prices remain where they are and later refinance for a better payment option. We are seeing an increase in listings as potential sellers home to have the opportunity to buy themselves!
2. What kind of feedback are you hearing from potential clients regarding the current market conditions?
Current market conditions is a very full term. Home prices are their highest ever and we have the lowest relative consumer wages. Couple those things with the highest interest rates in a decade and it seems that few know what to do. That doesn’t change that fact that for most buyers…when it’s time to buy, you do the best you can with what you have. That “time” is determined by the birth of a child, loss of a family member, divorce, or perhaps Mom and/or Dad moving back in. This lowers the expectations for many buyers who end up perhaps buying a slightly older home or one in an older neighborhood at a lower price than expected. As we see more homes listed on the market we expect to see some lowering of the housing prices.
3. Are your clients feeling more confident about making offers now, or are there still some hesitations?
Offers really aren’t the problem. Qualifying becomes a moment of enlightenment. We all just want to know which loan packages the banks will let us in to. We would all own a million-dollar home if the payments were approved! Of course this isn’t a concern for those with cash payments, 800 plus credit ratings, or a large sum of equity from an out-of-state sale. The best thing to do is “get in the game” and see what you qualify for and perhaps you will find a home that is perfect for you!
4. Have you noticed any shifts in the types of homes or price ranges that buyers are targeting with the lower interest rates?
Lower rates are kind of a sliding scale. If your credit is premium, then you get a little bit better rate, but every credit rating will see some improvements as the prime rate comes down. Higher prices in “stick-built homes” means that entry level home ownership is now at an all-time high! What is the new “entry level”? Manufactured homes or even Tiny Homes. Get into a home that is customarily less expensive, but wouldn’t you know the prices of those have been on the rise now as well. They have come down some in the last 6-12 months as we see increase in the part rents for those homes.
Our conversation highlighted some of the unique challenges and opportunities in real estate right now. Mark and Debbie’s insights reveal that while lower interest rates might offer hope, the impact is more nuanced, affecting buyer confidence and market activity gradually. Despite this, they see potential in helping clients make the most of what’s available, whether that means adjusting price expectations or exploring different home options. Working with agents who share such a clear commitment to guiding their clients through this complex landscape is always a rewarding experience.
Choosing the right real estate photographer is crucial in showcasing properties effectively. Often, real estate agents miss asking some key questions that can greatly impact the quality and effectiveness of the photographs. Here are the top five questions that are often overlooked but essential when hiring a new real estate photographer.
1. What is Your Post-Processing Workflow?
While many agents inquire about the shooting process, they often overlook the equally important post-processing phase. Ask about the photographer’s editing process, including their approach to color correction, exposure adjustments, and handling features like window views and shadows. Understanding their post-processing techniques will give you insight into the final look of your property images.
2. Can You Provide Examples of Different Lighting Conditions?
Photographers usually have a portfolio, but it might not cover a wide range of lighting scenarios. Ask for examples of their work in various lighting conditions, such as low light, bright sunlight, and mixed lighting. This will give you a better understanding of how they handle challenging light situations and maintain consistency in image quality.
3. How Do You Handle Tight Spaces or Unique Architectural Features?
Real estate encompasses a variety of properties, from compact apartments to large estates with unique architectural elements. It’s important to know how a photographer approaches such diverse spaces. Ask how they maximize small areas or capture the essence of unique architectural features. Their approach can significantly influence the appeal of your listings.
4. What is Your Turnaround Time?
Timing is crucial in real estate. While agents often ask about availability, they sometimes forget to discuss turnaround time. Knowing how quickly you can expect to receive the edited photos helps in planning listings and marketing strategies. It’s also worth discussing the process for rush jobs or tight deadlines.
5. How Do You Ensure Property Safety During a Shoot?
This question is especially pertinent now. Inquire about the photographer’s measures to ensure property safety, particularly in the context of ongoing health concerns. Understanding their approach to safety and respect for the property can be crucial for homeowner peace of mind.
Conclusion
Hiring a real estate photographer is more than just finding someone with a camera and a drone. It’s about understanding their complete process, from handling various lighting conditions and architectural challenges to post-processing and safety protocols. By asking these often-overlooked questions, you can ensure a more informed decision, leading to high-quality photographs that effectively market your properties. Whether showcasing a cozy bungalow or a sprawling estate, these questions can help you find the right photographer to bring out the best in your listings.
