REA Group, a multinational digital advertising business specializing in property, has agreed to acquire a 61.5% stake in Planitar Inc., the Ontario, Canada-based developer of iGUIDE, a proprietary camera and software platform that generates immersive 3D virtual tours, precise floor plans, and reliable property measurement data.
iGUIDE, founded in Kitchener, Ontario, in 2013, holds a leading position in the Canadian market, with its technology featured in 25% of all homes sold in the country in 2025. Its platform is utilized by real estate photographers and agents across more than 50 countries globally, providing an intuitive and immersive way for consumers to digitally explore properties.
The proprietary PLANIX camera systems employed by iGUIDE integrate advanced LiDAR and 360° imagery to efficiently and accurately map property interiors and exteriors, transforming physical spaces into digital twins. The PLANIX R1 camera facilitates rapid data capture and processing, and the iGUIDE platform offers unique functionality to edit 3D tours after initial capture. This capability allows users to take custom measurements and virtually navigate spaces, enhancing understanding of layout and dimensions for more informed decision-making.
This proposed acquisition aligns with REA Group’s consumer strategy, which focuses on delivering personalized, immersive, and engaging property experiences. REA Group’s realestate.com.au, which serves over 12 million Australians monthly, recently launched an AI-driven next-generation listing initiative, transforming static advertisements into dynamic, real-time property representations that have demonstrated increased consumer engagement.
Owen Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of REA Group, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition. “I’m delighted to welcome the iGUIDE team into REA and look forward to introducing iGUIDE’s leading 3D tour and floor plan technology to the Australian market,” he stated. Mr. Wilson added that spatial mapping technology like iGUIDE instills confidence, aids property seekers in making informed decisions, and provides agents and vendors with a means to differentiate their properties.
While currently less than five percent of listings feature a 3D tour, REA Group anticipates significant growth in this area as technological advancements make solutions like iGUIDE more accessible and higher quality. Mr. Wilson noted that “Interactive content and video will become the standard for property marketing in the coming years,” anticipating positive impacts on consumer engagement and the generation of highly qualified leads.
As part of the transaction, iGUIDE plans to establish on-the-ground sales and operations in Australia later this year, bolstering support for both existing and new customers in the Australian market. iGUIDE currently operates across North America and collaborates with global resellers. Alexander Likholyot, iGUIDE co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, will transition to a Strategic Advisor and Director role upon completion of the transaction.
Mr. Likholyot commented on the synergy with REA Group, stating, “It was clear after we started discussions last year, REA was the right fit for our business and we’re delighted to be joining the Group. REA is a company with a shared vision for accurate property data and information excellence, helping property seekers and industry professionals make the most informed property decisions.”
Jarrad Morden will assume the role of incoming Chief Executive Officer for iGUIDE, with the management team continuing to operate under its current structure and brand. Mr. Morden articulated his outlook, remarking, “This is an exciting milestone for iGUIDE and an opportunity to expand our reach with the support of a global leader in digital property experiences. I’m looking forward to working with REA’s world-class team to unlock new capabilities and establish a strong presence in the Australian market.”
The proposed transaction is subject to specific conditions and is expected to be finalized shortly. TD Securities Inc. served as Planitar’s financial advisor for the transaction, with Pulse Law, LLC providing legal counsel. REA Group Ltd (ASX:REA) operates Australia’s leading residential and commercial property websites and holds various strategic investments in property-related technology and financial services companies internationally.
