Auctioneers using drones to give buyers a bird’s-eye view

The numbers of auctioneers using drones in a bid to sell property is spiralling.

Over the past three months, more than 1,800 drones have been registered with the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), as it is now mandatory.

Now the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV) is backing their use in selling both residential and commercial property.

Pat Davitt, IPAV CEO, said: “A lot of auctioneers are now starting to use drones to sell property. We are already seeing an urban- rural divide on their use, with many of our auctioneers using them for larger properties with acreage.

“We’ve had hundreds of enquires by those working in the property market and those hoping to buy or sell property.

“It is not the IPAV pushing for their use, it is all demand driven by the customer and so far people living in the country but that will change.”

He said the use of drones is good for business, if used correctly. IAA spokerman Tony Lane said there is undoubtably a surge in the use of drones now with prices now very competitive.

“Since, the end of December when drones had to be registered with us, we are definitely seeing queries on how they could be used to sell property,” said Mr Lane.

“Drones are popular because people love to see things at a new angle. You can’t get this type of shot with a camera such as a high altitude picture with scenery in the background.”