Churches converted into houses are often a decorator’s dream. But the work can be daunting.
The seller of this sacred space in Savannah, GA, already started transforming it from a 1970s church into a contemporary home. The midrenovation structure is on the market for $695,000 and could be ideal for someone motivated to finish the job.
“He was going to make it a family compound and an arts studio,” says listing agent Staci Donegan, of Seabolt Real Estate.
But the owner changed course and halted construction, “so the next owner could do what they want,” Donegan says. “It’s basically a blank slate for the buyer.”
A new roof and HVAC system and electrical upgrades are among the completed improvements to the once-hallowed house of worship. The building sits on a 0.7-acre lot dotted with mature oak trees.
Framework for four bedrooms and two baths was added, but a kitchen still needs to be installed. The church’s cathedral ceiling, oak paneling, and oak pews were retained during the renovation and are included in the sale.
(Wayne C. Moore of Back River Photography )
(Wayne C. Moore of Back River Photography )
(Wayne C. Moore of Back River Photography )
(Wayne C. Moore of Back River Photography )
The original social hall behind the church still needs attention, but it does have a bath. The seller’s intent was to use this space as an art studio.
Savannah is a coastal city with roughly 150,000 residents. The unique church is in the Thunderbolt neighborhood and offers easy access to the downtown area, the beaches of Tybee Island, and the Truman Parkway.
“Just walking the streets of Savannah is a great history lesson,” Donegan says. “Along with a historic backdrop, the area offers other perks. Our [housing] market is insulated, compared to the rest of the country. … We are still affordable.”
Indeed, the city’s median listing price is $316,000, according to Realtor.com®.
In 2020, the seller scooped up the church building as a foreclosure for $315,000.
So, what might be the former church’s next incarnation?
“We have had people looking at it as an entertainment venue,” Donegan says. “A church has looked at it. A cabinet builder wanted it to be a showroom.”
Ideally, she says, it will probably be a live-work property.
“I truly believe the buyers for this house will be like the seller—an artist or have some sort of craft they do,” Donegan predicts.
___
Watch: Award-Winning Adobe in New Mexico Asks $14M
