Scottish property consultants are currently marketing several old churches for anyone wanting to own a unique family home.

CKD Galbraith is appealing to both developers to turn some churches into grand and stylish properties, and to new owners to move into already converted churches

One such property is The Anchorage Church and Steading which comprises of a stable block and grassed courtyard with planning consent for a four bedroom detached dwelling.

Also included in the sale is the former Alves Parish Church, a grade B listed building with around 1.2 acres dating back to 1769 and which already has full planning consent for a conversion.

The proposed house will comprise of a hall, living room, family dining room, breakfasting kitchen, utility room, bathroom, and four bedrooms (three en-suite).

Rod Christie, handling the sale for CKD Galbraith, said: “This sale represents an exciting business opportunity with the possibility of using both the former stable block and church as income-generating holiday homes once the conversion is complete.”

Alternatively, both buildings can be bought separately for around £80,000 each and would also make spectacular family homes, especially due to its location.

“Situated midway between the pretty towns of Elgin and Forres, the area is renowned for its dramatic coastlines and wide unspoilt beaches whilst the bustling city of Inverness is a mere 34 miles away,” said Rod.  

 “When viewed this way, the sale price of £150,000 for both Church and Steading is brilliant value and offers new owners the chance to develop these extremely well located properties.”

Galbraith is also appealing to buyers who want to move into an already-converted church called Kelham Brae, in Thornhill, Dumfries.

This three bedroom home was renovated in recent years to provide modern and very flexible accommodation with many of the church’s original features retained such as arched windows.

The contemporary annexe found to one side of the property could be let as a holiday cottage or simply used with the main accommodation as a five bedroom family home.

Although situated in a hamlet, Kelham Brae is open to countryside at the back and has its own mature garden with idyllic burn.

Mark and Harriet Thornton, two buyers who have already taken on a church conversion, said they were instantly taken with their property, called The Chapel, and could see its potential due to the terrific atmosphere and stunning setting.

“It was hard work but giving this former chapel a new lease of life for family and friends to enjoy for years to come has been immensely satisfying,” said Harriet.

“Last year alone The Chapel was booked on 25 different occasions through holiday lets company Cottages & Castles, giving us an additional income throughout the year and making the work we did more than financially advantageous.

“I would definitely encourage those considering buying a property to renovate to look at former churches and chapels; you could find yourself with a unique property in a beautiful location for a fraction of the price of other homes in the area.”