A MELBOURNE building company has launched “virtual reality tours” of display homes in regional Victoria to save time-poor residents travelling long distances to view home designs. Residents in the South Gippsland seaside town of Monthaggi can now head into the local Metricon office, put on a virtual reality headset and digitally “walk through” three of the company’s display homes.

Similar technology is becoming increasingly popular in the real estate sector.

Sydney-based property developer Thirdi Group recently used “augmented reality technology” to create the smartphone app ARTi, which allows prospective off-the-plan buyers to explore developments in 3D before they are built.

Adelaide real estate firm Ouwens Casserly also started holding virtual open for inspections using 3D glasses earlier this year.