'Looks like' in that sense - rather than in constructions such as 'He looks like his father' - started as an American colloquial usage. As with many such things, it has crept into British English now, too. Many would agree with you that it is 'sloppy'. but - as time goes on - it will simply become more and more acceptable.
As you said I'd say, "Usage is king." Certainly, I find this more acceptable than 'look to' to signify intention, as in, 'I'm looking to buy a new flat."