From today, Google offers users the option to see properties for sale and rent as an overlay to UK maps.

This free service is clearly of great benefit to the many small businesses who operate as estate agents or letting companies: Google says “We are completely open to working with any company”. A link will be provided back to the property website at no charge.

It’s good news for Google’s users, too: surely anyone in the market for a new house these days consults Google Maps, Streetview, and the satellite view to fully case out a property and its location before making a visit.

See the new overlay by going to Google Maps and selecting the ‘more’ drop-down beside the search box.