Derelict Churches Awaiting Divine Transformation Into a Dream Home—and Yours for a Little as $60K

Buying a former church can prove to be a lucrative decision for a savvy investor who is seeking a property that offers historical significance, architectural creativity, affordability, and the chance to build a home unlike any other.

When a church ceases to be used as a place of worship, the structure that once housed a congregation is often abandoned, left to wait for a buyer with creativity and drive to see potential in its future.

While church conversions can require careful consideration due to unique zoning, historical significance, and community impact, previous transformations have proven that the effort is more than worth the jaw-dropping results.

Often, these properties feature materials and details that cannot be found in traditional homes.

Steeped in history and still offering a host of period details of its former life as a house of worship, including beautiful stained-glass windows, cathedral ceilings, and even a bell tower, these structures offer a blank canvas for creating an awe-inspiring transformation.

1. 101 S Lincoln St, Smith Center, KS

Price: $397,000

Former United Presbyterian Church: This 6,456-square-foot American Gothic Revival sanctuary has already been converted into a three-bedroom residence.

Built in 1912, the brick structure still features many original highlights, including pointed-arch, stained-glass windows, steep gables, a belfry tower with a functional bell, and hardwood floors in an "interpretive celestial astronomy pattern."

Other impressive details include two kitchens, a home theater, an 850-square-foot lofted primary suite with pews still above, and an enormous finished lower level that could be used as a guest suite. All ground-floor windows were recently replaced.

A full-length basketball court out back needs a resurrection.

Nick Rhodes of Wildlife Properties Land Company is the listing agent.

2. 2406 170th Ave, Aledo, IL

Price: $125,000

Former St. John's Church: A divine intervention has begun at this two-structure rural residence, but buyers should note the church portion does not have plumbing.

Sitting on a 2.5-acre parcel, the residence boasts 4,996 square feet of interior space, offering the "potential to be a home, event center, or business." Built in 1919, the church features cathedral ceilings, stained-glass windows, original millwork, central air conditioning, and forced air heating.

A rec hall, which predates the church, has a kitchen, great room, and "the start of a large bathroom and walk-in closet." It does not have air conditioning.

The property is being sold as is.

Brittney Mills of Mel Foster Co. is the listing agent.

3. 801 4th Ave W, Ashland, WI

Price: $59,900

Former First Assembly of God Church: This 8,004-square-foot structure, awaiting a real estate revival, serves as a blank canvas for the next buyer.

Built in 1910, the sanctuary is steeped in history with stained-glass windows, exposed beams, cathedral ceilings, arched doorways, and hardwood floors. The listing states the property could be used as a "large single family, office space, apartment, or even a performance space."

It is located near Lake Superior.

Jennifer Eng of Coldwell Banker Realty is the listing agent.

4. 30 Quarterline St, Newaygo, MI

Price: $340,000

Former House of Grace: This 2,532-square-foot, "well-maintained church" seeks a buyer to transform the space into a single-family home, multiunit housing, community center, or event venue.

Built in 1887, the brick building features stained glass, arched wood doors, custom millwork, built-ins, a fireplace, and hardwood, tile, and carpet floors. The open floor plan includes a sanctuary, loft area, and several rooms that could be rejuvenated into offices or classrooms.

It is located near the Muskegon River.

Jason Carpenter of Keller Williams Grand Rapids East is the listing agent.

5. 202 E Pleasant, Cincinnati, IA

Price: $75,000

Former United Methodist Church: This 2,150-square-foot former religious institution still has many original details, but buyers should note that the "kitchen has been removed."

Built in 1920, the structure features an open floor plan, allowing the next buyer to keep it as a church or convert it into a single-family residence or investment property. Period details include stained-glass windows, ornate woodwork, hardwood floors, and a church bell. A shower has been added to the bathroom.

The covered back deck overlooks the fenced yard.

Sabrina Wells of Bogle Realty is the listing agent.