Real Estate Legal Services Across Central Pennsylvania

Buy or Sell Property with Confidence—We Handle the Legal Details

At Northstar Legal Services, LLC, we provide comprehensive real estate legal services for individuals, families, and investors throughout Lancaster County, Dauphin County, and beyond. Whether you're closing on your first home, selling a commercial building, or navigating a lease agreement, we make sure every contract, title, and signature is sound. With mobile and virtual services available, Attorney Tom McGlaughlin meets you where it’s most convenient—bringing clarity and peace of mind to your real estate transaction.

A Real Estate Attorney Who Comes to You—Literally and Legally

In real estate, the stakes are high and the details matter. A missing disclosure, unclear title, or vague contract clause can lead to costly disputes. That’s why we take a proactive, detail-focused approach to every transaction. As a solo attorney, Tom works directly with each client to ensure your purchase or sale is not only legally compliant—but structured to protect your interests. Whether you’re dealing with residential, commercial, or investment property, we walk you through the legal process step by step.

Residential Purchase & Sale Agreements

We review, draft, and negotiate home contracts that protect your interests and align with Pennsylvania real estate law.

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Commercial Property Transactions

From leasing to purchase agreements, we handle the complexities of commercial real estate with your long-term goals in mind.

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Real Estate Title & Deed Transfers

Ensure clean title and accurate deed preparation with our experienced guidance through Pennsylvania’s recording requirements.

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Legal Issues in Private Real Estate Sales

Selling without a realtor? We handle FSBO contracts, disclosure compliance, and closings for smooth, legal private sales.

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Pennsylvania Real Estate Law Is Complex—We Make It Understandable

Real estate laws in Pennsylvania differ by county, and even township. From understanding seller disclosure requirements to reviewing title insurance documents, we help you make informed, confident decisions—without legal jargon. Every contract we review or draft is tailored to your specific deal, so you're protected now and long after the ink dries.

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Residential Closings

We guide buyers and sellers through Pennsylvania residential transactions—from offer to closing table—ensuring all contracts and disclosures are compliant.

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Commercial Real Estate Transactions

We help business owners and investors negotiate leases, review contracts, and close on commercial buildings with clear legal protections in place.

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Purchase Agreement Review & Drafting

Before you sign, we make sure every contract reflects your interests and protects you from vague terms, hidden risks, or one-sided language.

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Title Review & Resolution

We examine title commitments and help clear up liens, easements, or disputes that could complicate your property rights.

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Deed Transfers & Property Conveyance

From quitclaim to warranty deeds, we prepare and record legally sound transfers to complete your sale or gift.

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For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Support

Selling your home without a realtor? We can draft, review, and help manage your entire FSBO transaction.

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Lease Agreement Drafting & Review

Whether you're a landlord or tenant, we draft clear, enforceable lease agreements that prevent future conflict.

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Mobile & Virtual Legal Services

We’ll meet at your home, a local café, or via Zoom—whatever makes the process easiest for you.

Have Real Estate Questions? We Have Answers.

  • What does a Pennsylvania real estate attorney do that a real estate agent doesn’t?

    While real estate agents handle marketing and negotiations, only a licensed Pennsylvania attorney can provide legal advice, draft custom documents, and resolve disputes that arise before or after closing. A real estate attorney ensures your contracts comply with state law, your deed is properly executed, and your interests are protected—especially in complex sales, FSBO transactions, or properties with title issues.

  • Do I need a lawyer for a private real estate sale in Pennsylvania?

    Yes. In a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) transaction, neither party may have an agent to handle paperwork or ensure legal compliance. A real estate lawyer helps draft or review the purchase agreement, manage disclosures, resolve title concerns, and guide both buyer and seller through closing. We support private real estate transactions in Elizabethtown, Lancaster, Harrisburg, and across Central PA.

  • What’s the difference between residential and commercial real estate contracts in Pennsylvania?

    Residential contracts follow standard forms and involve fewer contingencies, while commercial property contracts are often custom-drafted, with clauses related to zoning, financing, use restrictions, lease terms, and environmental concerns. We provide comprehensive legal counsel to protect your investment in any real estate transaction, whether it's a first home or a mixed-use development.

  • What are the most common legal issues in Pennsylvania real estate transactions?

    Clients often encounter seller misrepresentation, unclear title, boundary disputes, poorly written contingencies, or noncompliance with local ordinances. As experienced Pennsylvania real estate attorneys, we catch problems early, negotiate strong protections into your contracts, and help you avoid costly litigation after closing.

  • How do I transfer property ownership in Pennsylvania?

    Property transfers require a properly drafted deed, title search, and recording with the appropriate county office. Whether you're selling, gifting property to a family member, or resolving an estate, we prepare legally valid deed transfers and ensure clean title. Our office handles all the details for clients throughout Elizabethtown, Hershey, and the surrounding areas.