Choosing a Location
If the congregation decides to stay in the existing location, will the addition increase the value of the property? How long does the church plan to remain at its present location?
Land
If you are planning to relocate, first consider the amount of land needed. It is good to have at least two acres for each 300 attending. However, if the land is 100% usable, four acres could accommodate 900 people. (Note: Christian schools require much more land than churches.) Low-priced property may not be the best option.
Location
The church should try to find something in the main flow of traffic in a growing area (the town courthouse is an excellent source for demographic information), but there are exceptions. Check the contour of the land. Does it contain wetlands? Is it in a flood zone? What is the land history? Why is it being sold? Was it ever exposed to chemicals? What operations are nearby (railroad, smoke stacks, etc.)? Be sure to have an attorney obtain a clear title.
Codes & Zoning
City, county, and state requirements should be checked. The church must be aware of the setback requirements at all property lines. What types of construction are allowed? Try to assess whether the neighbors will resist your building on that location. Most areas require fully certified site engineering.
Utilities
Availability is an important consideration-water (tap and meter fees), fire hydrants and lines, and sewer (tap and meter fees). Is a lift station necessary? What about septic tank requirements? If no sewer is available, get the percolation of the ground tested. Investigate the costs for a well if there is no city water. Check into the availability of electricity, volts and phase power (single or three-phase), and natural gas.
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