5 Converted Schoolhouses and Banks You Can Buy Right Now, Priced Below $400K

If you've ever dreamed of owning a charming piece of history and transforming it into the home of your dreams, a former bank or schoolhouse might be just the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Not only do these unique properties offer a place to call home but they also provide a chance to preserve a piece of the past while creating something entirely your own.

Full of charm, character, and possibilities, these structures feature many original details, including vintage bank vaults and architectural details.

From Maine to Wisconsin, we found five converted banks and schoolhouses priced below $400,000 that offer a unique opportunity to live somewhere with a story to tell.

1. 6809 Handsome Brook Rd, Franklin, NY

Price: $275,000

CSAA Landmark Schoolhouse: Built in 1865, this 600-square-foot building has been converted into a stylish one-bedroom, loft-style home.

The charming open floor plan has hardwood floors and a cozy living room that flows into the dining area and kitchen. A spiral staircase leads to the sleeping quarters, which have vaulted wood ceilings. Recent improvements include energy-efficient hydronic baseboard heating.

A garden, an oversized shed, and a hot tub are also on the wooded lot.

Michele M. Barry of Lake Lady Property Management is the listing agent.

Restored historical schoolhouse in Franklin, NY (Realtor.com)

Interior of the restored schoolhouse (Realtor.com)

2. 1478 Stayton Rd, Cumberland Furnace, TN

Price: $230,000

Former Stayton School: Set on 3 acres, this 4,000-square-foot building has 1,400 square feet of finished living space. It comes with unfinished space for the next buyer to remodel.

Built in 1946, the home features many original details, including preserved hardwood floors, custom millwork, oversized windows, and high ceilings. The living room still has a chalkboard lining the wall, and wall-mounted water fountains nod to the building’s past. The updated kitchen has custom cabinetry and a farmhouse sink. An original raised “performance stage” could be used for entertaining or converted into a studio.

The property is being sold as is.

Donna Piehl of Realty Executives Hometown Living is the listing agent.

Former Stayton School in Cumberland Furnace, TN (Realtor.com)

Great room of former schoolhouse (Realtor.com)

3. 25 School St, Stockton Springs, ME

Price: $225,000

Former Stockton Springs High School: Built in 1880, this 6,244-square-foot former schoolhouse serves as a blank canvas. It could be transformed into a one-of-a-kind residence, a multipurpose retreat, or an event space.

Many original features remain, including tile, wood, and vinyl flooring. The generously sized rooms offer endless possibilities for entertaining, workshops, gatherings, or other uses (subject to town approval). Some interior improvements have already been completed, while other projects have been started, giving the next owner a head start on bringing their vision to life. An unfinished lower level provides even more room for expansion and customization.

It is located nearby Stockton Springs Harbor, which flows into Penobscot Bay.

Keirsten Wyman of Re/Max Jaret & Cohn is the listing agent.

Circa 1880 school in Stockton Springs, ME (Realtor.com)

Interior of the former high school (Realtor.com)

4. 1024 3rd Ave, New Brighton, PA

Price: $396,000

Former First National Bank of Pennsylvania: This former financial institution offers more than 5,000 square feet of versatile commercial space, which could be used for offices, retail shops, or a fitness center, with appropriate approvals.

Built in 1901, this property features a vintage bank vault, original ATM, night-deposit box, glass block windows, and private offices. Recent improvements include updated bathrooms featuring luxury vinyl flooring, modern lighting, and new vanities. The lower level has a kitchenette, meeting area, storage space, media room, and high-end carpeting.

The layout also offers the potential to rent out individual offices and generate additional income.

Stephanie Ramer of eXp Realty is the listing agent.

Former bank building in New Brighton, PA (Realtor.com)

Interior of the former bank building (Realtor.com)

5. N8508 Campbell Lake Rd, Ogdensburg, WI

Price: $149,000

Country schoolhouse: Built in 1927, this brick structure has been transformed into a 952-square-foot cabin.

The one-room dwelling has hardwood floors, a custom-detailed ceiling, and numerous windows. An unfinished lower level offers an opportunity for future expansion. A covered deck overlooks the private lot.

According to the listing, the property, "ready for its next chapter," could be used as a primary residence, weekend retreat, or hunting cabin.

Tina Attoe of Beiser Realty is the listing agent.

Former schoolhouse in Ogdensburg, WI (Realtor.com)

Interior of the former schoolhouse (Realtor.com)