Church

Seen a church for sale ? Why not buy it !

Lovers of exceptional properties should never rule out buying a religious building. As we explain, it’s certainly possible.

According to the French heritage building conservation body the Observatoire du Patrimoine Religieux, there were around 90,000 churches in France in 2019, most of them catholic churches. At least part of this unique heritage is – or will soon be – for sale, because 10% of all France’s chapels, churches, abbeys and convents will be marketed between now and 2030: you might describe it as a godsend for buyers who love nothing better than redesigning, restoring and renovating unique properties.

The very idea of converting a church into an impressive loft-style or a family home may seem far-fetched, but buying a religious property for conversion into a main residence is far from impossible, and may well prove to be a dream come true. Nevertheless, a number of checks will obviously have to be made: the church must have been deconsecrated, and permission must be granted by a Bishop or Prefect. If you plan to carry out any major structural work, it will be essential to check whether the property is a listed historic building. But it may be the cost of restoration that influences your choice of building, because it’s important to bear in mind that just a few changes can make a church both functional and comfortable as a home.What could be more exceptional than a living room in a nave, a family home within the ancient walls of a medieval priory or a room with stunning stained glass windows?

#Church by Espaces Atypiques