Q: We don’t understand much about building housing. Do we have to do this ourselves? If we don’t, when should we reach out for help?

A: Churches often lack the financial resources, expertise, time, and energy to undertake a housing project independently. It is beneficial for them to partner with affordable housing developers who handle pre-development, financing, construction, lease-up, and property management. However, engaging a developer occurs once the church has clarified its goals, allowing for a confident and strategic choice of a development partner. Abundant Ground assists in understanding and defining these goals. Contact us for a free initial consultation.

Q: Do we have to pay or sell our property?

A: Churches can have affordable housing built on their land without selling it or incurring building costs through common ownership structures like a ground lease. Alternatively, churches can joint venture with developers to participate in project management.

Q: What properties are often used for housing?

A: Affordable housing is commonly developed on churches' excess parking lots, educational or office buildings, and sometimes even where chapels or sanctuaries are located. New spaces for church services or offices can also be integrated into the development.

Q: Can our members live in the new housing?

A: Housing projects receiving public subsidies must adhere to open and fair application processes, allowing qualifying members to apply.

Q: What if our church does not have the property zoning for affordable housing?

A: Reputable affordable housing developers can navigate site zoning adjustments. Having city commitment and support for the project's success is crucial. We currently have churches in the rezoning process.

Q: How is this funded?

A: The fee structure is flexible, contingent upon the level of technical assistance and time invested in the process. our program provides significant value to our faith partners, increases affordable housing, and lends itself to a fee structure which is passed on to the development partners in order to cover the costs of our engagement in these housing projects. We can also work on a consultation bases.

Q: What are the first steps?

A: To initiate the process, we will draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining our mutual commitments. Subsequently, we will coordinate a meeting to discuss the details and establish a timeline for our collaboration. You will also be asked to fill out an intake form if you have not already done so. Contact Jessica Dominguez for more information at jessicadominguez@milehighmin.org.