The Nashville real estate market has attracted enough video production vendors that agents now have real choices — and real risks. A poorly produced listing video can actually hurt a listing's perception rather than help it. Here's what to evaluate when choosing a real estate videographer in Middle Tennessee.
Verify FAA Part 107 Certification
Any vendor flying a drone commercially for your listing must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This is a legal requirement, not a suggestion. Ask for the certificate number and verify it on the FAA's airmen inquiry portal. If a vendor hesitates or can't provide one, walk away — you assume liability for their unlicensed flight over your listing.
Review the Portfolio Critically
Ask to see recent work — not a highlight reel, but actual listing videos similar in price range and property type to yours. Watch for:
- Camera stability — shaky footage reads as amateur regardless of the equipment used
- Color quality — accurate, attractive color grading vs. flat or oversaturated footage
- Editing pace — does the video let the property breathe, or does it cut so fast you can't absorb anything?
- Audio/music — licensed music that matches the property's tone, not jarring stock tracks
- Aerial quality — smooth, purposeful drone movement vs. robotic or wandering flight paths
Ask About Turnaround Time
A listing that goes on market without its video loses the most valuable first-48-hours window. Confirm the vendor's standard turnaround and ask specifically what happens if they have a backlog. Some vendors take 5 to 7 days — which may not work for your timeline. Film My Listing delivers within 24 to 48 hours of the shoot, guaranteed.
Understand What's Included
Get clarity on deliverables before you book. Questions to ask:
- Is aerial footage included, or is it a separate add-on?
- Do I receive both horizontal (MLS) and vertical (social) formats?
- Are the aerial stills included?
- How are files delivered — download link, Dropbox, WeTransfer?
- Is there a revision process if something needs to be reshot?
Confirm Insurance
Commercial drone operators should carry liability insurance covering their equipment and third-party property damage. Ask for a certificate of insurance. Reputable operators provide this without pushback.
Red Flags to Avoid
- No Part 107 certification or hesitation to provide it
- Pricing significantly below the market rate (often signals uninsured operators or inexperienced crews)
- Portfolio that consists only of interior photos, not video
- No clear turnaround commitment
- No contract or written scope of work
Film My Listing is FAA Part 107 certified, fully insured, and has a straightforward booking process with clear deliverables and 24-48 hour turnaround. Book a shoot and see the difference professional production makes.