Michigan woman buys 128-year-old abandoned church for $45,000 and turns it into her dream home

Whitney Anderson, 45, bought a 128-year-old abandoned church in Michigan for $45,000 and is converting it into her dream home. (Photo: CNBC Make It) Whitney Anderson, 45, took a major financial risk when she bought a 128-year-old abandoned church in Michigan for $45,000 and began transforming it into her dream home. The renovation, which started in June 2024, has already cost her an estimated $194,000, and she hopes to complete most of the work by the end of 2028.In a video feature by CNBC Make It, Anderson offers a look inside the unusual property and explains why she decided to invest her savings in a project that could cost her up to $400,000 by the time it is complete.Anderson calls her unusual home a “chouse” - a church that has been converted into a house. Despite the money and effort involved, she says the sense of peace she feels inside the building keeps her motivated.“This is still the biggest gamble I have ever made in my life,” Anderson said. She admitted that she remains uncertain whether the project will become a sustainable venture or leave her financially struggling.“It's still 50/50 if this is gonna be a sustainable chouse house, whatever you want to call it, or if...