Looking Up: Drone market expands with real estate boom

May 1, 2026 - 08:54

There is always a possibility that Jason LaVanture could encounter an armed homeowner or be attacked by a bird while at work. "We've had guns pulled on us for sure," said LaVanture, who owns BlueLaVaMedia and is a licensed drone pilot. "We have been doing this long enough and when you show up, there are always surprises."

The drone market is expanding rapidly, driven largely by the ongoing real estate boom. Agents and developers are turning to aerial photography and video to showcase properties in a competitive market. LaVanture says his business has grown steadily as more clients demand high-quality footage that traditional photography cannot provide. A single drone shot can capture the full layout of a neighborhood, the size of a lot, or the proximity to local amenities.

But the work comes with risks. Birds of prey sometimes attack drones, mistaking them for intruders. Homeowners, especially those in rural areas, may see a hovering aircraft as a threat. LaVanture has learned to announce his presence and fly during daylight hours to avoid misunderstandings. Despite the hazards, he expects demand to keep climbing. As more people buy and sell homes, the need for a bird's-eye view is only going to grow.