With a nod, I was checking the floorplan

TRAIPSING round a stranger’s property as you weigh up whether to make an offer can be an uncomfortable experience. So donning a virtual reality headset can seem a blessing.

No more concerns about bringing mud in on your shoes or catching the seller in their underwear. Within seconds you forget you have a headset on.

I conducted a virtual reality viewing of a new development in Fulham, South-West London, miles away at Foxtons in Islington. All of a sudden an overcast day in Islington became a sunny afternoon on the bank of the River Thames as I was transported to outside the new St George development.

I was able to search the interactive floorplan with a nod of my head. I was taken to the lounge where a neatly laid table, modern sofas and television greeted me.

I was immersed in a 360degree image as I rotated myself to see pictures on the wall. With a nod, I headed into the hallway and visited a bedroom complete with a pink hat left strewn on the bed.

I was also able to visit the onsite facilities – a swimming pool and spa.

The experience makes a nice change from browsing stale property images on Zoopla or Rightmove.

All that was missing were the sounds and smells.

My verdict? Despite the impressive new technology, viewing in person will always be the best way to buy a home.