BUILT as a place of worship, this Edmonton property has served for years as a unique and reliable family home.

Rustic charm is at the heart of the three-bedroom house, which superbly mixes modern living with its former life as a popular Cairns Southside church.

The 1012sq m property is going to auction later this month, with the first open home being held today from 11-11.45am.

Horticulturist Jackie Newell and her husband Gabriel Ayres have adored the unique home since they bought it in December 2009.

“The first time I walked in I was just overwhelmed,” she said.

“The ceilings are so high and the place just has this calmness about it. We fell in love with it.”

Built in 1923, the property looks as though it has hardly been touched, with the facade having stood the test of time.

It was sold by the Anglican Diocese of North Queensland for $80,000 in 2000, and soon converted into a charismatic home.

While some features of its sacred era remain, including the bell tower and alter, the interior is now a smart and highly-liveable setting.

“It is a cute house and we have enjoyed many parties on the back deck,” Ms Newell said.

“People come to visit and are just amazed by it.

“A girlfriend of mine’s daughter was christened here, and they want to come back for a look.”

The three bedrooms are all airconditioned while the gardens have remained in excellent condition.

The home is designed to capture the breeze, and a “stunning outlook” can be enjoyed from the outdoor entertaining area.

A short drive from Cairns, it is also close to a host of local schools and shops.

“We will be sad to go, but my husband and I have a new property we’re ready to move into,” Ms Newell said.

“The neighbourhood is also great and we have not had any problems.”

According to CoreLogic, the median house price at Edmonton as of December was just shy of $350,000.

With a population of just under 10,000, the suburb is poised for growth amid surging interest in Cairns’ southern corridor.

Selling agent for 32 Queen St Karl Latham of Elite Real Estate Services said the home was a “piece of Cairns history”.

“Very rarely is there an opportunity to get something like this, which has so many unique features,” he said.

“You walk through its arched opening and it just puts a smile on your face.

“It is perfect for someone who wants to be able to come home to something different.

“This innovative transformation presents a unique opportunity for the discerning buyer.”

The property is being auctioned on-site at 11am Saturday, April 22.