Google Street View technology to be used in Scottish property market

Technology used by Google to produce its Street View maps is being deployed in the Scottish property market to help househunters ‘walk around’ homes using their computer or smartphone.

Special cameras offering 360-degree views of house interiors could transform the way people look for property, according to solicitor estate agent Aberdein Considine.

The firm has teamed up with Scottish technology firm Eskimo Intelligent Solutions to offer the digital viewing experience across Scotland.

The virtual tours are created using rapid 360-degree imaging iSTAR panoramic cameras, which precisely capture full spherical images of the property.

Individual panoramic images are ‘stitched’ together – similar to Google Street View – allowing the viewer to move through the property using their mouse or fingertips.

Since their introduction, Google’s 360-degree maps have become part of everyday life for most.

Bob Fraser, senior property partner at Aberdein Considine, believes they could have the same impact in the property market.

“It is unlikely that someone would buy a home without having at least one walk around,” he said.

“However, where this technology will bring enormous benefit is for more remote properties which might not get the footfall urban properties get.

“A virtual tour may catch the eye of a buyer who would otherwise have not seen the inside of the house.”

Mr Fraser, who has been buying and selling property in Scotland for 35 years, added: “I think the sector is now ready for this technology as it has dropped in price over the past 18-months, allowing it to become a feasible marketing tool for people selling their home.”