The Best Real Estate Attorneys in State College, PA
Find experienced real estate attorneys in State College, Pennsylvania. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in State College
Scott W. Etter
Etter, McMahon, Lamberson, Clancy & Strouse, LLC
Scott Etter is a highly respected real estate attorney with over 25 years of experience serving State College and central Pennsylvania. As a founding partner of his firm, he specializes in residential and commercial real estate transactions, including complex commercial deals, development projects, and residential closings. He is recognized for his expertise in title insurance matters and land use regulations. Etter has built a strong reputation for providing thorough, client-focused representation and is frequently recommended by local real estate professionals for his attention to detail and deep knowledge of Pennsylvania real estate law.
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Christopher R. Huck
McQuaide Blasko
Christopher Huck is an experienced real estate attorney with McQuaide Blasko's State College office, bringing 18 years of comprehensive real estate law experience. He focuses on commercial real estate transactions, development projects, and business-related property matters. Huck is particularly skilled in handling complex commercial purchases, leasing agreements, and financing arrangements. His practice also includes construction law and land use matters. Clients consistently praise his strategic approach and ability to navigate complicated real estate transactions while protecting their interests.
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John A. Miller
Miller, Kistler & Campbell, Inc.
John Miller brings over 22 years of real estate law experience to his practice at Miller, Kistler & Campbell. Based in State College, he handles a wide range of real estate matters including residential and commercial transactions, land development, zoning issues, and real estate financing. Miller is known for his practical approach to real estate law and his ability to efficiently handle complex transactions. His background in business law provides additional value for clients involved in commercial real estate deals. He maintains strong relationships with local title companies and real estate professionals throughout central Pennsylvania.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is a real estate attorney required for a home purchase in State College, PA?
While Pennsylvania is a "title theory" state where title companies often handle closings, hiring a real estate attorney in State College is highly recommended for reviewing complex contracts, new construction agreements, or if you're buying a unique property like a downtown multi-unit building. An attorney is crucial for navigating Penn State-related leaseback agreements or addressing specific borough zoning questions that a title agent may not handle.
What local State College or Centre County regulations should a real estate attorney help me understand?
A knowledgeable local attorney can guide you on State College Borough's rental housing ordinances, including occupancy limits and inspection requirements crucial for investment properties near Penn State. They also understand Centre County subdivision and land development ordinances, which affect building on lots in surrounding townships, and can advise on local historic district rules if you're buying in the Holmes-Foster or College Heights neighborhoods.
How much does a real estate attorney typically cost for a residential closing in State College?
Fees vary but typically range from $500 to $1,500 for a standard residential transaction in Centre County, depending on the property's complexity and the attorney's involvement. Many attorneys offer flat-fee packages for review and closing services. It's important to get a detailed quote upfront, as costs for dealing with specific issues like unrecorded easements common in older borough neighborhoods or drafting a lease agreement for a student rental will be additional.
What specific services do State College real estate attorneys provide for landlord-tenant matters?
Given the large rental market driven by Penn State, local attorneys frequently draft and review lease agreements tailored to Pennsylvania law and local borough codes, handle eviction proceedings in Centre County Magisterial District Court, and advise on security deposit disputes. They are also essential for helping landlords comply with State College's stringent rental registration and safety inspection requirements to avoid fines.
Can a State College attorney help with title issues common to older properties in the area?
Yes, local attorneys are adept at resolving title issues frequently found in State College's historic core and surrounding older developments, such as vague property line descriptions, missing heirs from decades-old wills, or unrecorded utility easements. They work with title companies to clear these defects and can file necessary actions in the Centre County Recorder of Deeds office or Court of Common Pleas to ensure a marketable title.
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