For many years, ADF has partnered with Christian Investors Financial (a part of the Evangelical Free Church of America) to provide capital fundraising consulting for Alliance churches. I've asked the vice president in charge of capital campaigns, Steve Johnson, to write a guest blog emphasizing the benefits of a consultant-based capital campaign. ADF is a firm believer that capital campaigns are a critical element of any capital project, so I encourage you to read what Steve has to say:

If your church is planning to move to a new location, choosing the site is obviously one of the biggest decisions you will make. We’ve all heard it said that the three most important considerations in real estate are “location, location, location,” and it’s true—even for a church. There are six factors to consider when choosing a site for your church: visibility, accessibility, the neighborhood, demographics, zoning, and buildability.

“Preparing to plan” sounds a bit redundant, but there are important steps your church should take before you begin the planning phase of a building project. First, you must have a clearly articulated vision and mission for the project, with everyone on board. Too many churches build as a “kneejerk” reaction to a need for space rather than a vision-driven desire to minister more effectively.

Finances may be the biggest hurdle to overcome with a potential building project. Fortunately, you don’t need to have a specific project in mind to begin to conquer this challenge. Even if you are a decade away from building, there are important steps you can begin right away—steps that will set you up for future success.

If your church is leasing its worship property, eventually you will almost certainly consider whether it would be better to purchase your own building. Many factors will influence your decision, from building equity to ministry function to location to monthly costs. Perhaps you are convinced that your church will never want to own a building. If that’s you, experience tells me you may change your mind as your church grows and time passes.