If you're willing to put in a little time (and a whole lot of elbow grease), then snapping up an abandoned building could be a fantastic way of getting your foot on the property ladder. With unique features, versatile interiors and bags of potential, these derelict properties from across the globe could be transformed into breathtaking homes. Click or scroll to discover some of the most promising abandoned buildings on the market right now...

Formerly the site of the first public library in England, this Grade II-listed building is bursting with character and potential. It's listed with Brown&Co for an undisclosed sum, however, according to the Norwich Evening News, it requires £600,000 ($730k) worth of repairs, including £289,000 ($352k) of "immediate, high priority and urgent work,” before anyone can move in.

Known as Guildhall Hill, the beautiful building lies in the centre of Norwich, Norfolk, and has been many things over the years, including a library, which first opened in 1784 and closed in 1976 and, more recently, an office and restaurant. 

Laid out over three floors, the 5,482-square-foot property features plenty of impressive interior spaces that would make for amazing living rooms. The former library room is perhaps the finest space in the building though, with its double-height ceiling, stained-glass elements, wall-to-wall timber bookcases and mezzanine floor.

Other rooms include an entrance hall, two reception rooms, a gallery, a kitchen, an office and the former restaurant, as well as a basement level that spans more than 1,000 square feet, so there's plenty of room for creating a lavish family home with, say, four bedrooms. There's also the potential to renovate and create a boutique hotel or wedding venue. If you've got the imagination and budget to rescue and restore this historic gem, then what are you waiting for?

Sprawling, unique and full of potential, this old abandoned church lies in the city of Anderson, Indiana, and is currently up for grabs for just shy of £41,100 ($50k) – that’s £0.82 ($1) per square foot, since the property spans a staggering 38,988 square feet.

The historic property is considered an Anderson landmark and was constructed back in 1926. From its enticing brick façade to its epic interior, which sprawls across three floors, there are so many options when it comes to renovating this gem.

In fact, inside there's enough space to create a 30-unit apartment building. Alternatively, you could split it into several homes and sell off the ones you don't want to keep. The former church is certainly in need of work, though. From its collapsing ceilings to its rubble-filled floors, graffiti-stained walls and peeling paintwork, this big fixer-upper is not for the faint of heart.

On the plus side, though, the property offers plenty of eye-catching architectural details that are worthy of rescuing. From its tall-arched glass windows to its soaring ceilings, stained glass elements, iron staircases and ornate woodwork, this building has lots to be admired. If you're up to the challenge, then LoopNet has all the details you need.

This unique property was once the local corner store. Located in South Lismore, New South Wales, the steel structure is a piece of regional history and is ready to be turned into a one-of-a-kind modern home.

Available via Raine & Horne and priced at £142,300 ($173k), or AUD$270,000 locally, the former shop was damaged during flooding in 2022, so the current owners stripped it back to its bare walls, ready to start again.

Step through the front door and you'll find yourself in a large, steel-clad space with a high ceiling. The buyer will need to bring their wallet, imagination and tool kit in order to bring this building back up to standards. Measuring 1,636 square feet, the property features lots of lovely features worth preserving, including hardwoods, beautiful floors, cedar weatherboards and, of course, steel columns.

Oh, and did we mention there’s a huge, standalone, steel-framed shed that has endless potential? Think cool home office, workshop or man cave. There's also a 9,052-square-foot garden that's ready to be put to use.

Over in Dayton, Ohio, you could pick up this striking abandoned school for a mere £152,000 ($185k). Built in 1985, the two-storey structure sits on an acre of land and benefits from an exterior with endless kerb appeal.

On the market with LoopNet and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commercial Division, the vacant school spans 3,264 square feet and features huge classrooms with generous ceilings, large sash windows and chalkboard walls.

In need of a total overhaul, the property has bags of potential, but the buyer will need to invest a significant amount of time and money into bringing it back from the brink. From new walls, ceilings and floors, to damp repair, it's likely the renovation will cost thousands. However, we're sure the effort would be well worthwhile.

What's more, the affordable property comes with a good-sized garden, so the buyer could extend the structure or create a private backyard for much-needed R&R. Whether you fancy creating an imposing private mansion or a business opportunity, this former school is sure to tick your boxes.

Have you ever wanted to own your own boutique hotel in France? Well, this incredible property could be the perfect opportunity. Located in the quaint village of Anduze in southern France, the structure is close to Cévennes National Park and the glistening coastal city of Montpellier, making it perfectly placed for tourists. On the market with Patrice Besse for £278,800 ($340k), or €320,000, The Hotel Particulier is located in the heart of the village, across the road from two notable landmarks: the Covered Square and its Pagoda Fountain. 

Built in the late 17th century as the noble, private residence of the Lords of Générargues, the property is covered in lime plaster and boasts plenty of gorgeous period details, such as finely carved stone embellishments, exposed cornerstones and segmental arched windows with stone cornices. Measuring 3,767 square feet, the former noble residence is laid out over four floors, with the ground level home to an independent commercial space, currently operating as a shoe shop. 

The other floors show signs of its life as a hotel, with old discarded furnishings and light fixtures found in some of the rooms. The Hotel Particulier comes complete with an interior courtyard, an entrance hall, a cellar, four private apartments and numerous attic spaces that are waiting to be renovated. There are plenty of amazing features inside, too...        

Highlights include carved wooden transoms depicting angels, terracotta tiled floors, dramatic fireplaces, glass-paned French doors, an imposing central staircase with intricate ironwork and balconies decorated with stone and wrought-iron railings. There’s even a tower, which is accessible from the second floor. In need of a major restoration, it was damaged and partially destroyed during the Wars of Religion, but would make for an amazing feature if carefully preserved.

As striking as it is historic, this former social club can be found in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. Priced at a very reasonable £327,300 ($399k), the building was originally constructed as The Columbus Lodge No.215 in 1915 and exchanged hands in 1941 to become The Venetian Club of Mutual Aid. Later, in 1957, the building was sold to The New Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church of Detroit.  

Measuring 10,800 square feet and set over three floors, the former social club is filled to the brim with amazing details, from 10-foot ceilings and antique light fixtures to sash windows and poured concrete and hardwood floors. It's also said to have amazing acoustics.

As well as a spacious entrance hall, the building also offers a grand main space, which was clearly once used for religious gatherings. There are endless other rooms, too, all of which need to be fully renovated. At one point the basement housed a kitchen, with serving and dining areas. There are also various multi-functional rooms and bathrooms.

Located just off one of Detroit's major thoroughfares, Gratiot Avenue, the listing includes two side lots and is positioned adjacent to a city park, meaning it's unlikely any further developments will go up next door. Plus, according to the listing, the building itself is structurally sound, so all you'll need to do is take care of the interior.

Located in the North Yorkshire resort town of Scarborough, this former warehouse is up for grabs for offers over £350,000 ($427k). Laid out over three substantial floors, the building has been used for both commercial and residential purposes over the years but has now fallen into a state of disrepair. 

Stretching 6,636 square feet, the Victorian-era building is ripe for renovation and could be utilised for various things – a grand family home, a block of apartments you could rent out, or even a hotel or events venue. 

At the moment, the interior benefits from a former shop and warehouse on the ground floor, and rundown and abandoned living spaces on the first and second floors. Every single room is in need of a total makeover.

What's more, there's no chain, which means the buyer could snap up the building quickly. Plus, it's located close to the coast, in Scarborough's South Cliff area, and comes with a front forecourt with private parking.

Those looking for a beautiful barn to convert will definitely be interested in this historic structure. Described as an antique barn by the listing agents, the impressive building was first constructed in 1800 and is now ready to be transformed into a truly mesmerising home.

For sale with Sotheby's International Realty for £471,700 ($575k), the post and beam barn is nestled on more than five acres in Blairstown, New Jersey. Offering three levels of usable square footage, the ground floor was previously used as a garden centre and office, while the main floor has two oversized bays and side rooms. There are also a few mezzanines that were previously used for storage. 

Clearly, a lot of work will be needed to turn the barn into a comfortable home, but with its high ceilings, exposed beams and airy feel, we know how amazing it could be if given the right level of attention. Making things a little easier, the property sits within R5 (residential) zoning, so the buyer will be allowed to create a private residence, without too many problems.

The estate is also home to two greenhouses, both of which need to be restored. Plus, there’s an outdoor entertaining area inside a bamboo forest. It comes complete with a stage and tables, outdoor electrical outlets and spigots for water access – remote luxury retreat, anyone?

Located just off the high street in the town of Birkenhead, Merseyside, this incredible historic building was once the local Guild Hall – properties that were used for tax collecting. Many Guild Halls were later turned into town halls and this palatial structure is no exception. Now, though, it's ready for its next chapter.

Constructed in 1900, the brick building has two entrances and a truly eye-catching interior that spans 10,500 square feet over four floors. This is by far the nicest room in the property, with its curving and decorative ceiling, wood-panelled walls and mesmerising tiled floor. 

There are countless other spaces inside, too, including numerous huge rooms that would make for amazing open-plan living rooms. While the ground, first and second floors are currently set up as commercial accommodation, the building's basement is being utilised for storage, but it could easily be converted into a games room or home cinema.

Ripe for restoration, the historic property clearly needs lots of work and will cost a pretty penny to be restored and converted into a functional home. For sale right now for £499,000 ($608k), the structure presents fantastic value. Especially since adjacent properties have sold for millions. Plus, no VAT is chargeable, which will make the purchase even cheaper.

The English county of Staffordshire has a long and rich industrial history. A hub for the making of iron, clay, pottery, leather and textiles, as well as plenty of other things, the area is bursting with former commercial properties that have already been converted. However, there are plenty of abandoned industrial buildings that are waiting to be rescued, including this former mill in Rugeley, which is available for £950,000 ($1.2m).

Positioned next to the Trent and Mersey Canal, The Old Corn Mill dates back to 1863 and is in a significant state of disrepair. Arranged over four floors, the property measures 6,936 square feet and sits on a 0.24-acre lot, so there's room here for further expansion.

Inside, the property retains plenty of gorgeous period fixtures, such as vaulted and beamed ceilings, roof windows, exposed brick walls and timber floors, all of which will need some TLC when the new owner gets the keys. From crumbling plaster to flaking paintwork, it's clear the building is in need of a total overhaul – a task that could prove costly.

Some of the rooms have lost the fight with Mother Nature, with vines and plants climbing through windows and brickwork. As well as the four-storey mill building, the listing includes a separate detached house, which is also in need of a full renovation. The property received planning consent to be turned into 37 apartments, however, the permit has since expired. So, whether you're looking for an investment opportunity or want to create an incredible dream home, this listing will deliver.

Those looking for a fabulous fixer-upper in Quebec, Canada, could pick up this abandoned retail store for £1.1 million ($1.3m). Situated in the heart of Montreal West, the property dates back to 1930 and benefits from an imposing brick façade and a roomy interior that needs a little TLC.

Sadly we don't know much about the history of the building, but the listing implies it has been most recently used for retail purposes. Inside, the 7,830-square-foot floorplan is open and light-filled, with vacant spaces that are waiting to be put to better use. This room, for example, would make for a fantastic open-plan living area, with a lounge, kitchen and dining space.

Laid out over two floors, the property is a real blank canvas, so the buyer will be able to flex their design skills and transform it how they see fit. There's definitely enough room for four bedrooms, a few living areas, a large kitchen, an office and even a home movie theatre or gym. 

As for architectural details, the building boasts gorgeous exterior brickwork, big sash windows and generous ceilings. However, a total overhaul is needed to turn the abandoned building into a liveable, family home. Are you up to the challenge?

Movie fans will fall head over heels for this historic property. Located in the city of Edmonton in the province of Alberta, the Princess Theatre was built in 1914 by James McKernan and was the first marble-faced building in Western Canada. Spacious, unique and overflowing with historic features, this abandoned commercial building could make for one spectacular family home. 

For sale with MaxWell Commercial for £1.6 million ($1.9m), the building offers a spectacular space for a sensitive redevelopment. Now a Provincial Designated Historic Site, the abandoned cinema covers four floors and boasts 14,270 square feet of inside space. The main entrance foyer is grand and impressive, thanks to its towering ceiling, dazzling chandelier and imposing staircase.

The Princess Theatre benefits from plenty of amazing period details that are just waiting to be brought back to life. From its oversized windows to its decorative tiled entrance, original projector room and incredible main theatre – which comes complete with 360 seats, a second-floor balcony, concession stand and washroom – this is one seriously cool real estate opportunity.

The abandoned commercial building also offers a second theatre room. Known as the Princess II, the space offers 90 seats and a large concession stand outside. With a wow-factor interior and valuable frontage on 82nd Avenue, this remarkable property is just waiting to be transformed into a grand family home, a work-life space or a series of luxurious apartments. The possibilities are endless...

Built between 1910 and 1912, Villa Schwalten is a truly spectacular piece of real estate. Described by listing agents, Sotheby's International Realty, as a "masterpiece of architecture", the grand property was designed by architect and painter, Richard Riemerschmid, as his private residence. Riemerschmid was a major figure in the German Art Nouveau movement and a founder of the architectural style.

According to the listing, Riemerschmid searched for the perfect plot of land – one that was quiet, spacious and far away from train lines or busy roads. He also wanted a lake for swimming and fishing. This is how Villa Schwalten came to be. Located near Füssen in Bavaria, the 11,409-square-foot property is nestled on more than four acres of land and is positioned on an elevated lot to allow for views of the nearby Alps. Once a private family home, the villa was later turned into a hotel. Now abandoned, it's ready to start a new chapter.

Step inside and you'll find spacious, light-filled rooms with high ceilings, endless windows and plenty of quirky architectural details. As for spaces, there’s an entrance hall, a large living room, a dining room, a kitchen, several servants’ rooms, six bedrooms, a cleaning room “for domestic purposes” and a dressing room with built-in wardrobes. Half of the house has a cellar, too, which could be converted into a beautiful basement, while the attic extends almost the entire floor area of the house.

The villa has been partly renovated, but much work is still needed to bring the pad up to scratch. Plus, there’s also an annexe in the grounds, which contains a laundry room, a small workshop, a parlour and, according to the listing, “enough rooms for the janitor's family”. If you've fallen in love with this grand estate, then it could be yours for €7.5 million, which equates to £6.5 million ($7.9m).

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