How to Find a Good Local Church
Take a look at their statement of faith.
Compare to Scripture. Is there a reliance on tradition? Is there statements without verses to back them up? Avoid these.
Is the church part of a denomination or other association of churches?
Support gay rights? Allow women to preach? Insist on tithing? Insist on King James only? Known for poor financial management? Insist on continuation of all spiritual gifts? Known for false teaching? If so, avoid it.
Are the leaders qualified based on 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1?
Any women? Any new converts? Avoid these.
Is there accountability for their leadership?
Are the leaders accountable to nobody? Avoid these.
Pay attention to their teaching/sermons.
Do they rely on the inerrency, infallibility and sufficiency of Scripture?
Are there any small groups for all ages?
Discipleship develops within a small group setting. Avoid if no groups.
Look at their available ways to serve.
Are there opportunities to serve with your giftings? If not, reconsider.
Look at their focus on missions/ community outreach.
Are there evangelism efforts for those outside the church? If not, avoid.
Ask about finances.
Where a local church spends its resources says a lot about priorities.
Look at their music style.
Music should not be a primary factor to avoid as it is largely a matter of preference, but avoid when a reliance on songs primarily from Hillsong, Elevation, Vertical or Bethel.
Narrow down choices and visit.
Through it all, Pray, Pray and Pray.