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Ministry Space. From the Experts. Don’t rent more space then you can afford 1,200 sq. ft. is a good start Cheaper isn’t always better Location over cost Sharing space is a last resort We’re jealous! You’re growing – We’re not! The answer is NO! Don’t build-out temporary space
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From the Experts • Don’t rent more space then you can afford • 1,200 sq. ft. is a good start • Cheaper isn’t always better • Location over cost • Sharing space is a last resort • We’re jealous! You’re growing – We’re not! • The answer is NO! • Don’t build-out temporary space • The cost isn’t worth the final result • Flex space is always more valuable • Delineate space with banners, wall hangings, curtains
From the Experts • Be Creative – Schools, Hotels, Funeral Homes, Movie Theaters, Civic Centers, Social Halls, Private Schools, Clubhouses, Homes… • Ask EVERYONE – and you shall receive! • Suitability – Availability - Cost • Silence isn’t always “golden” • Learn from the children (multi-tasking) • Learning centers & carpet squares are better than chairs • Invest in people – over space
From the Experts • Hallways from heaven – use what you have to do what you need to do • Small spaces have large potential • Move when you outgrow the space • You ALWAYS have options • Keep it simple – set-up and take-down get old real fast! (Portablechurch.com) • It’s called “temporary” for a good reason
From the Experts • Temporary Site MUST be in the service area – or VERY CONVENIENT • Locate at the “neck of the balloon” • “Reputation/Image” of Temporary Site must be positive in the community • Get to know your neighbors – be a good neighbor
From the Experts • Visual crowding “feels” more crowded than physical crowding • Clutter is bad (keep the altar area “open”) • 75-80% is full • Add more space • Add a second service (critical mass) • You won’t “save” money by building sooner
From the Experts • Work hard to outgrow your space • Keep looking for another alternative • One move is positive • Three moves can be deadly • Pioneers build mission churches • Homesteaders come later • Not adequate parking – SURPLUS parking
From the Experts • LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION - Visibility pays off no matter what the building looks like • Get estimates on remodeling the space to meet both present and future needs -– BEFORE you sign the lease • Negotiate into the lease as much building and property maintenance as you can afford • Negotiate to insure as few restrictions by the landlord as possible • Make sure that the heating and A/C is sufficient for a large gathering of people (sound issues)
From the Experts • Lease space that will allow for numerical expansion in worship attendance, Christian education and fellowship actives. If you expect to grow, you will grow. • The parking should be paved and lined and have sufficient spaces to allow room for guests – A full parking lot means that there is no room for new people • Don’t let a leased facility bankrupt the congregation - Live within your means • If you outgrow the space, be willing to add a second service - if you need to add a third service, it might be time to move • Leased space is temporary and a tool to help grow the church. When it is time to move, risk making the move.
Rental Agreements • Everything is Negotiable • Be honest in what you can afford • Escalating rental payments might help you afford more space • Long term lease vs. short term and flexible • Trading Spaces: build-outs make a good ministry project • The EOCM Unit is your friend • The 1st Month’s Rent is on us! • Lease in the name of the MD - designated as a developer of the ELCA • Insurance is under the blanket Insurance policy of the ELCA
Rental Agreements • Negotiate the contract – don’t fall in love with your landlord • Get everything in writing • Specify the cost • Designate space to be used (worship, education, office, storage) • Length of time – 24 months basic time • Opportunity for renegotiation & renewal
Rental Agreements • Once a lease has been negotiated… • Before you sign on the dotted line - send a copy to the EOCM Unit for review and approval • Keep the Original Lease • Send a copy to the EOCM Unit