Area churches using low prices to expand

South Florida churches of all sizes are taking advantage of the down real estate market to buy new land and buildings. The poor economy has led more people to seek out churches, said Mani Maken, president of the West Palm Beach-based Maken Group, which means that the churches need more space. Maken said he is contacted weekly by local churches looking for more property, and at least six South Florida religious groups have acquired property in the last three months.