A revolution in the way homes for sale or rent can be viewed online has begun after 3D property viewings firm Matterport announced a partnership with Google.

When it comes to taking a virtual tour, there are already a host of incredible destinations to explore. Sporty types might want to check out the smart Chalet Etoile ski cabin in the French Alps; while adventurers will enjoy exploring the rustic Bearfoot Lodge tucked into Tennessee’s Bluff Mountains.

Imagine being able to take an open-house tour of a home for sale in your town without actually driving to the property; or, while walking your dog, taking a photo of a house in a nearby neighborhood and finding out how much it last sold for.

iPhone users who love exploring the world from the comfort of their couches have a new app to download: Matterport. The Google Street View rival has brought its virtual reality tours of various real-world locations to the iPhone.