However, that doesn't mean that churches no longer own parsonages. In one study of Nazarene pastors and churches, Rich Houseal, a research analyst, found that 83 percent of the pastors surveyed said that their churches owned parsonages. Only 17 percent of the churches did not own a manse. By 1990, that percentage dropped to 75 percent. Today it's down to 69 percent.
Some churches rent out their parsonages.
They're also responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the property. Some churches tear down their parsonages and use the land to build other facilities. Many churches keep the empty parsonage but use it for other ministries, such as Sunday school, offices, or youth group. A house is usually a wise investment through which pastors can build equity Red Bridge Baptist Church, in Kansas City, Kansas, owns a ranch-style home on the edge of the church's parking lot. More than a decade ago, the pastor of the church purchased his own house.