Google Maps allows users to see which homes are for sale

Google Maps users will be able to search for listings from estate agents and property websites directly on the maps from today.

Google says companies across the property industry have already put their listings in the database, allowing users to see which homes are available and visit the relevant website from there.

The feature will allow buyers to keep an eye on a particular geographic area and spot when houses become available.

Users can see which houses are for sale or rent by selecting "Properties" from the "More" menu. They can also refine their search by price, type of property, bedrooms and bathrooms.

Andrew Foster, product manager at Google, said, "Given the importance of location to a home search, we have made it easy for home buyers and renters to see listings that match their criteria on Google Maps.

"We know that many UK home buyers are already using Google Maps in their house-hunting, and by adding property listings to the map we are putting everything together for them in one place."

Alex Chesterman, founder and CEO of Zoopla.co.uk, which has loaded its properties onto Google Maps, said, "Google is an important start point in the online journey for many consumers, helping them find relevant content which is very complementary with our business which combines property listings with market data and a variety of tools to help consumers make better property decisions."