Religious Institutions & Non-Profits

As a member of a religious institution, or a non-profit organization, you understand the significant benefits of receiving recurring revenue. A cell tower lease can provide your religious institution the much needed capital it deserves for years to come. It is important however to proceed with caution. Cell tower lease companies typically try and offer religious institutions and non-profits less money than other private property owners. They think you really need the money so you will take whatever they offer you (typically a low ball offer). Do not allow them to take advantage of your generous status. Here are some FAQ from some of our religious institution and non-profit clients

FAQ

• Why have they contacted our religious institution or non-profit to place a cell tower? Typically they have contacted your group for a few reasons. First, often religious institutions and non-profits are located on land with favorable zoning for cell towers and adjacent to residential areas. Second, they think they can get a really good deal with your group because they usually think you desperately need the money. Finally, religious institutions in particular typically provide them steeples which give them a good height to locate their antennas to provide coverage to the surrounding community.
• Are churches popular locations for cell towers and cell sites? Absolutely. The cell tower industry loves installing on properties occupied by religious institutions and non-profits. It is typically easier to get a deal done on their terms. That means a lower rent and better terms for them. Make sure you are not leaving money on the table and being take advantage of. Contact Airwave Advisors!
• What should we look out for with a cell tower lease? Everything! You will be presented a cell tower lease drafted by their legal counsel which is one-sided in favor of them. They view you as an easy target so the business terms will likely be low. Both the lease and the business terms can be improved significantly with our help.
• How do we get a cell tower for our church? Wireless carriers and cell tower companies need to contact the church. Often if the property is in a desirable location, they have a need in the area, and a budget to construct, then they will reach out. To learn more check out our article Cell Tower Locations.
• We are a tax exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit how will a cell tower lease this affect us? Also inquire with a qualified tax advisor to see what the tax implications will be, if any, once you have a cell tower paying you rent on your property. Our understanding is you will not lose your tax exempt status, however, please check with your tax advisor.
• Will the cell tower require a change in the zoning classification of our property? Typically the answer is no. One of the many reasons wireless carriers like installing their equipment on properties occupied by religious institutions and non-profits, is the property is surrounded by residential, however, it is zoned commercial or some other non-residential use. This typically makes it easier to construct a cell tower. One thing you should always look out for in a cell tower lease is to ensure your tenant does not have the right to change the zoning classification of your property without your written approval.
• We do not have much money to pay advising fees, can you help? Yes. We have flexible fee structures to accommodate entities that may be unable to pay market rates for advising services. Give us a call and we can discuss further.

To ensure your institution maximizes their opportunity in new cell tower lease negotiation, lease renewals, or in cell tower lease buyouts, make sure to have Airwave Advisors on your side.

Below are testimonials from clients we have worked with, Habitat for Humanity, and Sacramento Adventist Academy.

We were more than pleased with the results that we achieved from Nick Foster and Airwave Advisors. I was really impressed and understood the gravity that Mr. Foster brings to the table, when we had a negotiation with AT&T and no less than nine people attended the call on behalf of AT&T, to discuss the lease with Mr. Foster and I. The results of the call were impressive and I would recommend Mr. Foster to others. He surely contributed to the growth and security of our affiliate.

Jim W., Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of St. Joseph County

Nick Foster of Airwave Advisors provided tremendous value in helping us better understand our cell tower lease. We can say first-hand that Nick does a great job in not only advising us landlords on the lease agreement but also in leading us to a position to obtain positive results.

Greg F., Board Chair, Sacramento Adventist Academy

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