A new poll by PRDnationwide has gauged the biggest deterrents to house hunters. 

The survey found termite damage proved the most off-putting fault among people searching for a property, with 43% tipping it as their number one deterrent. The poll also found 32% considered cracks in the foundation the biggest deterrent, while 22% tipped asbestos building materials as the most off-putting factor. 

PRDnationwide managing director Tony Brasier said many of the problems listed could lead to hundreds of thousands of dollars in repair bills. He urged prospective buyers to be wary of these issues when searching for a home. 

"Often purchasing a home is a decision made with the heart – but to avoid heartbreak these issues need to be evaluated before rushing in to purchasing," Brasier said.