Priscilla Houliston's TikTok channel in Pennsylvania is garnering millions of views as she shares her life inside a converted old church. This space, once dedicated to religious activities, has been transformed into a unique personal home, complete with soaring vaulted ceilings and vibrant stained-glass windows.

This trend emerges from the current US real estate market, where average home prices surpass 400.000 USD and can reach 1,6 million USD in major cities. High interest rates and inflation are diminishing homeownership opportunities for many, prompting them to seek alternative housing solutions.

Priscilla Houliston in Pennsylvania, US, showcases her home, a former church purchased for 40.000 USD, 2/2. *Source: The1876studio*

Utilizing platforms like Loopnet, Houliston discovered religious buildings, spanning 180 to 420 square meters, listed for just 50.000 to 100.000 USD. "Finding a church for under 100.000 USD right now is very easy," she stated. "The US currently has over 6.000 old churches awaiting new owners."

Many parishes, struggling with maintenance costs, are forced to sell these structurally sound buildings, often featuring stone cladding and spacious grounds. However, converting a place of worship into a residential space presents numerous legal complications.

One church buyer recounted being stalled for nine months. Local authorities required him to personally fund the construction of an access road and utility upgrades, leaving him to patiently await permits for the building's residential conversion.

Many Americans are seeking to buy churches for homes due to their low price, despite legal risks. *Illustration: Shutterstock*

John Muzyka, a real estate expert from Church Realty, advises prospective buyers to proactively contact local building permit departments to understand the required procedures. Regulatory bodies must approve renovation plans before residents can legally occupy the property.

Buyers also need to consider insurance valuations for unique architectural features. One couple faced significant losses after a fire when their insurance company refused to compensate for 50.000 USD worth of stained-glass windows, citing a lack of official valuation records.

Despite these bureaucratic hurdles, many individuals remain enthusiastic about this unconventional housing option. Below Houliston's video, one user proudly mentioned their uncle's "chouse" (a portmanteau of church and house), while another shared that a relative acquired a seven-bedroom church for under 100.000 USD.

By Minh Phuong (According to NyPost)