Scientology Buys Building Near San Francisco Headquarters

The Scientology group acquired a property with three levels at 650 Sacramento St., a short distance from its San Francisco headquarters at 701 Montgomery St. The sale closed on October 26. The building dates to the early 20th century and has about 10,000 square feet of space.

The property had been bought out of foreclosure by its sellers, who considered converting it to offices or housing. Those plans stalled as the pandemic drove up construction costs and weakened demand for redevelopment. The building was left in shell condition, and a future occupant would need to undertake a substantial renovation and seismic work.

The building drew interest from developers, including some who considered housing. Church officials visited several times before buying it. A spokesperson said the purchase would increase the organization’s ability to serve its members and the wider community.

The church intends to retain historic elements while adapting the property for its own uses. Its nearby headquarters is in a landmark building known as the Old Fugazi bank building, with surviving features including basement vaults. The San Francisco chapter opened in 2003 at a high-profile event attended by then-Mayor Willie Brown.