Abandoned mortuary sells for $171K

By Adam Dutton via SWNS

An old mortuary complete with original embalming room has sold for £137,000 ($171,287) – more than twice its guide price.

The creepy property was put up for auction with an estimate of around £55,000 ($68,765) by John Pye Auctions.

Auctioneers warned buyers the dilapidated building in Leek, Staffs., England, was in need of full refurbishment or even demolition.

Despite its run down condition, the former morgue attracted more bidders, with some potential buyers wanting to turn it into "a spooky themed Airbnb."

Spooky house hunters have the chance to snap up an eerie former morgue and its listed with a guide price of just $68k too. (John Pye Auctions via SWNS)

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The old mortuary – which was last used to tend the dead 20 years ago – went under the hammer on Thursday, April 27.

It sparked a bidding war until it sold for £137,000 ($171,287) - £82,000 ($102,522) more than expected.

The buyer, who has not been named, has not revealed what they plan to do with the
building and half-an-acre of surrounding land.

Pictures show the building surrounded by overgrown shrubs and weeds while the rooms are piled high with trash.

Further photographs reveal crumbling walls, stained tiles and holes in the ceiling panels.

Auctioneer Helen Bingley said: "It's going to make a amazing project for someone and has huge potential.

"There is quite a market for historical buildings of this nature that people are interested in staying in overnight.

"Other unusual buildings we have had for sale in the past include an observatory, water tower, a former army barracks and windmill, all have proved to be attention grabbers at auction."

The mortuary is just one mile from Cheddleton Village and 10 miles from Stoke-on-Trent making it attractive to commuters.