EXCLUSIVE Converted churches make divine homes: What they cost - and what buyers must look out for Former churches make unique homes with an array of quirky features But there are restrictions that might put some buyers off We look at how much they cost - and what's on the market right now Updated: 08:55 BST, 28 July 2024 e-mail View comments Church conversion properties offer buyers an impressive exterior, high ceilings and multiple large windows. Each building is unique, and gives buyers the chance to own a home brimming with character and quirks, far more so than can be found in any new-build. We look at how much you might pay for your own heavenly home, and take a look at three examples on the market right now.
Divine: This four-bed converted church in Shillinghill, Scotland, could be yours How much is a converted church home? The uniqueness of church conversions often comes at a premium. Buyers looking for a three-bedroom church conversion can expect to pay 30.8 per cent more for a church conversion than a traditional property.
In research from OnTheMarket seen exclusively by This is Money, data showed that a three-bedroom church conversion typically costs £554,015, against £405,975 for a conventional three-bed home. Four-bedroom church conversion homes typically cost £700,806, while traditional homes with the same number of bedrooms cost around £622,799, OnTheMarket said. However, for smaller properties, it could even be more cost effective to buy a church conversion over a conventional home.
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Share this article Share HOW THIS IS MONEY CAN HELP Looking for a new mortgage? Check out the best rates here Church conversions versus conventional house prices Average price for church Average price for traditional home Bedrooms Price difference £700,806 £622,799 4 +11.8% £554,015 £405,975 3 +30.8% £347,424 £316,872 2 +9.
9% £247,575 £256,898 1 -4.1% £204,400 £455,249 0 -76.1% Source: OnTheMarket At £247,575, the cost of a one-bedroom church conversion is typically 4.
1 per cent lower than a standard one-bedroom property. According to OnTheMarket's research, Kew and Mill Hill in London and Caterham in Surrey are the three most expensive areas to buy a church conversion, with average prices in Kew reaching nearly £3million. At the other end of the market, Stockport, Newport and Bristol are the cheapest areas to buy a church conversion, with costs coming in at £172,450, £374,000 and £411,428 respectively.
With converted churches being relatively rare, the averages will depend on what is on the market at that time. OnTheMarket said the locations with the highest number of church conversion properties on sale were London, Bristol and Stockport. What to watch for when buying a church conversion While appealing, buying and living in a church conversion will not always be straightforward.
Churches can come with all kinds of quirks, and prospective buyers need to get a comprehensive survey carried out before taking the plunge. Matt Thompson, head of sales at Chestertons, told This is Money: 'Often benefiting from impressive exteriors, high ceilings and large statement windows, converted churches are sought-after homes with a considerable fan base. 'Due to their popularity, these properties tend to receive multiple offers when put up for sale and find a new owner fairly quickly.
'Asking prices can vary and depend on the finish of the conversion, the property’s location and its overall condition.' He added: 'As the majority of churches are older buildings, a survey is crucial to identify any fundamental problems such as structural weaknesses. 'We also advise buyers to bear in mind that any desired work such as extensions could be restricted if the property has listed building status.
' Georgia Jakstys, an associate at Knight Frank, added: 'Converted churches appeal to those seeking unconventional properties with unique character.' 'One is likely, however, to be faced with service charges if you buy an apartment within a conversion, a lack of accessibility, or the inability to renovate if the building is listed. 'Despite this, church conversions are typically situated in easily accessible, central locations, often close to transport links and local amenities as they were designed to be community centres.
'Essentially, converted churches offer a special living experience that combines old-world charm with contemporary functionality, appealing to those who want a home that stands out from standard residential offerings. 'They are typically seen to be purchased by end users or accidental landlords rather than investors or developers.' Converted churches for sale This is Money reveals a selection of striking church conversion properties on sale now.
1. Four-bed house, Shillinghill, Scotland, offers over £650k Impressive: This four-bedroom church conversion is on sale via McEwan Fraser Legal All yours: The property is currently on sale for offers over £650,000 Grounds: The converted church and grounds are brimming with period features Welcoming: The interior of the church conversion in Scotland exudes warmth Custom: This property comes with a bespoke spiral staircase Unique: The converted church has its own recording studio First impressions count and this four-bedroom church conversion house in Temple, Midlothian, on sale via OnTheMarket and McEwan Fraser Legal for offers over £650,000, creates a good one. This nineteenth century converted church has four spacious bedrooms, a spiral staircase and a recording studio.
Some notable artists have reportedly recorded in the studio. As well as ample space indoors, the property comes with large grounds, parking and an EV charging station point. The current owners have happily lived in the property for many years.
2. Four-bed house, Back Lane, Caldwell, offers over £425k Wow factor: St Hilda's House in Caudwell is on sale for offers over £425,000 Chic: The interior of St Hilda's House is modern and fabulously livable Features: Who wouldn't want to sleep in a bedroom like this? Finishing touches: St Hilda's House has been finished to a high standard throughout It's got it all: St Hilda's House is located in a rural but accessible setting St Hilda's House, a converted chapel, is located is the village of Caldwell in North Yorkshire and is on sale via Anthony Jones Properties for offers over £425,000. The property has an 180-year history and, internally, blends period features with luxury modern living.
Internally, the property is impressive, boasting bespoke hardwood doors and a bespoke staircase. There are exposed stone walls and timber beams in the galleried landing. Every room has been finished to a high standard.
Externally, a newly created private pathway leads to a secluded courtyard-style garden, perfect for alfresco dining. 3. Three-bed house, Richmond, Yorkshire, £595,000 Dreamy: This three-bedroom converted chapel is on sale via GSC Grays for £595,000 Perfection: The kitchen is light, bright and colourful - a perfect combination Welcoming: The hallway in the property blends a modern finish with many period features Living quarters: The property in Richmond has a warm and welcoming living space High spec: One of the bathrooms in the Richmond chapel conversion This three-bedroom converted chapel in Richmond is located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and on sale for £595,000.
There are stained glass windows, alcoves and stone flooring leading into an inner hall on the ground floor. The living room is an L-shaped room with a dual aspect, including stained glass windows to the side and rear, a multi-fuel stove with a slate hearth and oak beam above. The converted chapel is approached through wrought iron gates to both stone paved pathways and an opening to a gravelled area, providing parking for two or three vehicles.
How to find a new mortgage Borrowers who need a mortgage because their current fixed rate deal is ending, or they are buying a home, should explore their options as soon as possible. What if I need to remortgage? Borrowers should compare rates, speak to a mortgage broker and be prepared to act. Homeowners can lock in to a new deal six to nine months in advance, often with no obligation to take it.
Most mortgage deals allow fees to be added to the loan and only be charged when it is taken out. This means borrowers can secure a rate without paying expensive arrangement fees. Keep in mind that by doing this and not clearing the fee on completion, interest will be paid on the fee amount over the entire term of the loan, so this may not be the best option for everyone.
What if I am buying a home? Those with home purchases agreed should also aim to secure rates as soon as possible, so they know exactly what their monthly payments will be. Buyers should avoid overstretching and be aware that house prices may fall, as higher mortgage rates limit people's borrowing ability and buying power. How to compare mortgage costs The best way to compare mortgage costs and find the right deal for you is to speak to a broker.
This is Money has a long-standing partnership with fee-free broker L&C, to provide you with fee-free expert mortgage advice. Interested in seeing today’s best mortgage rates? Use This is Money and L&Cs best mortgage rates calculator to show deals matching your home value, mortgage size, term and fixed rate needs. If you’re ready to find your next mortgage, why not use L&C’s online Mortgage Finder.
It will search 1,000’s of deals from more than 90 different lenders to discover the best deal for you. > Find your best mortgage deal with This is Money and L&C Be aware that rates can change quickly, however, and so if you need a mortgage or want to compare rates, speak to L&C as soon as possible, so they can help you find the right mortgage for you. Mortgage service provided by London & Country Mortgages (L&C), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (registered number: 143002).
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