Tag Archive for: NEPA Real Estate

How to Buy Commercial Land: 3 Strategies For Selecting Land For Your Business

You find a parcel of land that looks perfect online. The price works. The location seems right. Then the questions start stacking up. Can you actually build what you need there? Is there access to utilities? Will customers even find you?

In Northeastern Pennsylvania, choosing commercial land can look very different depending on whether you’re eyeing a small lot in downtown Scranton, a warehouse site in Dunmore, or a more rural parcel with room to expand. At Realty Network Group, we work with businesses across NEPA who come in thinking they solely need land, only to realize they need a strategy.

If you’re learning how to buy commercial land, these three strategies will help you evaluate the right lot before you commit.

1. Define How You’ll Use the Land

Before you ever look at listings, you need to plan for how you’re going to use the property, then match the land to your business needs.

A contractor needs space for equipment storage and easy truck access. A retail owner cares a great deal about visibility and traffic flow. A medical office prioritizes parking and proximity to residential neighborhoods.

This sounds obvious, after all, if you’re shopping for commercial property, you already know what your business needs. But it’s actually where many buyers go wrong. They find a “good deal” on a property first and then try to make it work for their situation after the fact. If the property doesn’t support how your business actually operates day to day, it doesn’t matter how good the price looks.

Lackawanna County operates under a decentralized zoning system where the county planning commission provides guidance, but local municipalities maintain individual zoning ordinances. A property that looks perfect on paper could have limitations affecting everything from building height to signage. 

Review local zoning laws early to save yourself from unexpected (and expensive) surprises. This is all part of due diligence, confirming that a property can support your plans before you move forward.

2. Evaluate Infrastructure, Utilities, and Access

Compared to residential property, commercial land purchases are likely to involve higher costs, stricter requirements, and more moving parts.

What’s already in place on a property will shape both your upfront costs and how quickly you can get up and running. Utilities are a big one. Water, sewer, electric, and gas access can significantly impact both your timeline and your budget. In some cases, extending utilities to an undeveloped site costs more than the land itself.

Access matters just as much. Road visibility, traffic patterns, ease of entry for customers and deliveries—if people can’t find your building, well, there goes the business!

In Lackawanna County, proximity to major roads like I-81 and the Casey Highway will make a huge difference depending on your business type. A logistics-focused company prioritizes highway access, while a local service business benefits more from being embedded in a neighborhood.

Environmental factors are also important to consider. Pennsylvania has specific guidelines around land use, wetlands, and environmental impact. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection offers helpful resources for evaluating a location.

3. Plan for Future Growth and Expansion

When business owners research how to buy commercial land, they’re usually thinking about the here-and-now, rather than the long term. You get excited about taking that next step for your business, and the future feels like a faraway concept you can worry about later. That’s a mistake that will limit your business sooner than you expect. Start planning for the future now.

Ask yourself:

  • Will this location still work if the business doubles in size?
  • Is there room to expand or reconfigure the site?
  • How is the surrounding area changing over time?

Parts of NEPA, like Scranton and Carbondale, are seeing gradual redevelopment and investment. What looks like an “average” location today could become much more valuable a few years from now.

It’s also worth looking at market trends. The U.S. Small Business Administration offers guidance on site selection and long-term planning that can help frame your decision.

It’s common for buyers to start out by focusing on smaller, lower-cost lots. But after factoring in growth projections and nearby development, many realize they need more space than they first expected. Choosing a slightly larger parcel upfront prevents the need to relocate sooner than planned.

How to Buy Commercial Land: Bringing It All Together

Learning how to buy commercial land doesn’t just mean finding a lot within your budget. The right piece of land should support how your business runs today and give you room to grow for tomorrow!

Having a local NEPA perspective makes a real difference. Whether you’re just starting to explore how to buy commercial land or you’re ready to start looking at properties, Realty Network Group’s commercial real estate professionals will guide you through the process. Contact our team and take the next step toward the right property for your business.

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The Top 6 Things To Consider Before Renovating Your House

At some point, almost every homeowner considers giving their home a facelift. Perhaps it’s a dated kitchen. Maybe it’s a bathroom that hasn’t been touched in decades. Or it could be that your home no longer reflects your lifestyle. Whether you’re planning updates yourself or exploring renovated homes already on the market, the goal is the same: creating a space that better fits your life.

But alongside these considerations normally comes hesitation:

  • “What if I spend too much and don’t get it back?”
  • “What if this turns into a much bigger project than I expected?”
  • “What if this disrupts our lives more than we can handle?”

These are valid concerns — and in many cases, they’re the difference between a smart renovation and a stressful one.

If you’re a homeowner in the Greater Scranton area, here are six things you should understand before committing to a major renovation. Let’s break them down for you!

1. Not Every Renovation Adds the Value You Think It Will

One of the biggest misconceptions homeowners have is that any upgrade they make to their home will increase its value. In reality, value is determined by what buyers in your market are willing to pay — not just what you spend. We repeat — what you, the homeowner, spends has very little to do with the property’s value.

In the NEPA region, buyers tend to prioritize these features commonly found in renovated homes:

  • Functional, updated kitchens (not necessarily luxury-level)
  • Clean, modern bathrooms
  • Homes that feel “move-in ready”

What doesn’t always translate?

  • Highly customized finishes
  • Ultra-high-end upgrades in mid-range neighborhoods
  • Layout changes that don’t match buyer expectations

For example, installing top-of-the-line appliances or luxury materials may feel like a major upgrade, but if your home’s price range doesn’t support it, you’ll only recoup a fraction of that investment.

The Takeaway

Before renovating, ask: “Is this improvement for me — or for the market?” The best projects often strike a balance between both.

2. Renovation Costs Rarely Stay Where You Expect Them

Even with detailed estimates, renovations have a way of throwing you a curveball.

This is especially true in older homes throughout Scranton and surrounding communities, where hidden issues are common. Once walls are opened, contractors often uncover:

  • Outdated or unsafe electrical systems
  • Aging plumbing that needs replacement
  • Structural concerns that weren’t visible initially

On top of that, material costs can fluctuate and small design changes can snowball into larger expenses. A simple kitchen refresh can quickly evolve into new cabinetry instead of refacing, upgraded countertops instead of standard materials and electrical updates to meet code.

This is one of the biggest gaps between what people expect from renovated homes and what it actually takes to get there.

The Takeaway

Plan for the unexpected. A contingency fund isn’t optional — it’s essential. We recommend tacking on an additional 25% to best prepare for those sneaky costs. Without it, even a well-intentioned renovation can become financially stressful.

3. Renovations Will Impact Your Daily Life More Than You Think

It’s easy to get ahead of yourself, focus on the finished product and overlook what it takes to get there. But living through a renovation can be one of the most challenging parts of the process.

Depending on the scope, you may deal with:

  • Limited or no access to key spaces (like kitchens or bathrooms)
  • Constant noise and dust
  • Disrupted routines for work, school and family life

For many homeowners, the stress isn’t just physical — it’s mental. Your home, which is normally your place of comfort, temporarily becomes a construction zone.

The Takeaway

Think beyond the project itself and plan for how you’ll live during it.

Ask yourself:

  • Do we need a temporary living arrangement? Maybe there’s a family member who will come to your aid.
  • Can we phase the renovation to minimize disruption?
  • Are we prepared for weeks (or months) of inconvenience?

Being honest about this upfront can prevent burnout midway through the project.

4. Timelines Are Flexible — Whether You Like It or Not

One of the most common frustrations homeowners face is delays. Even when a contractor provides a clear timeline, many factors can shift it, including:

  • Permit approvals
  • Inspection schedules
  • Sub-contractors’ schedules
  • Weather (especially in Northeastern PA)
  • Material backorders

In and around NEPA, timelines can also vary depending on the municipality and the complexity of the project. What was expected to take two months can easily stretch into three or four months, or more.

The Takeaway

Avoid tying your renovation to rigid deadlines, especially if you’re planning around a move, hosting major events, or seasonal transitions. Build flexibility into your expectations. It will save you a lot of frustration.

5. The Contractor You Choose Will Shape the Entire Experience

Two homeowners can take on the exact same renovation and have completely different experiences based on who they hire. Similar to the importance of hiring a top-notch real estate agent for all your buying and selling needs, bringing in a strong contractor who does more than just complete the work is crucial. 

A reputable candidate should:

  • Communicate clearly and consistently
  • Set realistic expectations
  • Help you navigate decisions along the way
  • Keep the project as close to schedule and budget as possible

On the flip side, choosing based on the lowest price can lead to poor workmanship, missed deadlines, and costly corrections down the line.

The Takeaway

Treat hiring a contractor like hiring a key partner — not just a service provider. Look for detailed, written estimates, strong local references and online reviews, and clear communication from the start. The right choice here can save you time, money and stress.

6. Your Long-Term Plans Should Drive Every Decision

Before making any major renovation, you need clarity on one key question: How long do I plan to stay in this home? Your answer should guide everything.

If you’re planning to sell within six to twelve months:

  • Focus on cosmetic updates with broad appeal
  • Avoid major, expensive overhauls
  • Think like a buyer, not an owner

If you’re staying long-term:

  • Prioritize comfort and functionality
  • Invest in features that improve your daily life
  • Customize, but not to the point of limiting future resale

In the Greater Scranton market, where price sensitivity can vary by neighborhood, over-improving can be just as risky as under-improving. For some homeowners, the better move isn’t renovating at all — it’s finding the right renovated home that already checks the boxes.

The Takeaway

Every renovation dollar should align with your future — not just your present. If you’re considering selling within the next year, renovations should be strategic. Here’s a practical checklist to guide your decisions.

Final Thoughts

Renovating your home isn’t just about improving how it looks, it’s about making decisions that affect your finances, your lifestyle, and your future. Whether you’re planning updates yourself or considering renovated homes, the most successful homeowners aren’t the ones who spend the most, they’re the ones who plan with clarity and purpose. 

If you’re unsure where to begin, the best first step isn’t picking out finishes or calling a contractor — it’s understanding what makes sense for your situation, your home, and what you hope to achieve. Realty Network Group is ready to help! Contact us today to get started.

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Buying vs Leasing Office Space: How to Buy a Commercial Property

Buying or leasing office space comes down to one thing: what makes the most sense for your business right now, and where you’re headed next.

For some, buying is a long-term investment. For others, leasing offers the flexibility they need to grow. In NEPA’s evolving market, knowing how to buy a commercial property is the first step toward making the right choice for your business.

Buying vs. Leasing Office Space: What’s the Difference?

The decision comes down to ownership vs. flexibility. 

Buying office space means you own the asset, build equity over time, and have full control over the property.

Leasing gives you access to a space without the long-term commitment or upfront investment. 

One is a long-term investment strategy, the other is a short-term operational decision. 

Pros and Cons of Buying vs. Leasing

Buying Office Space

Thinking long-term? Buying commercial property might be a powerful move, especially if you’re learning how to buy a commercial property with investment in mind.

Pro: Equity + long-term investment
Instead of paying rent, you’re building ownership in an asset that may appreciate over time. Appreciation = higher property value. Now that’s something you’ll appreciate.

Pro: Control over your space
You can customize, renovate, and use the property exactly how your business needs it. Paint the walls or knock them down—it’s your choice.

Pro: Local market opportunities
In many parts of Northeastern PA, buyers can still find value in commercial properties compared to larger metro areas, making ownership more attainable for growing businesses.

Browse our available commercial listings to get a clearer picture of what’s currently on the market.

Con: Higher upfront cost + responsibility
Here’s where the magic wears off. Down payments, maintenance, repairs, and property management all fall on you.

Con: Less flexibility
Owning a property can make it harder to pivot if your business needs change. Selling or relocating takes time and planning, which can limit your ability to move quickly.

Leasing Office Space

Leasing keeps things lighter and more flexible, especially in earlier stages of growth.

Pro: Lower upfront cost
It typically requires less capital to get started than purchasing, so you can get into your commercial space faster.

Pro: Flexibility
Easier to relocate, expand, or downsize as your business changes. Since businesses go through a lot of changes, especially in the early stages, that flexibility can be a huge help.

Pro: Access to established business areas
Leasing can make it easier to secure space in high-traffic or established commercial areas where buying may be more competitive, especially in NEPA’s more established business districts like Downtown Scranton and Wilkes-Barre.

Con: No ownership or long-term return
Less stability. Monthly payments don’t build equity, and rent can increase over time, leading to higher overhead costs.

Con: Limited control over the space
Lease agreements may restrict how much you can modify or customize the property, which can impact how the space reflects your brand.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Buy a Commercial Property 

Leaning towards buying? Here’s a quick guide on how to buy a commercial property, without overcomplicating the process:

  1. Define your needs and budget
    Identify how much space you need, where you want to be located, and what you can realistically afford.
  2. Secure financing
    Explore commercial loans, SBA options, or other funding sources to understand your purchasing power.
  3. Work with a commercial real estate professional
    An experienced agent will help you navigate the market and negotiate effectively.
  4. Evaluate properties
    Look beyond shiny appearances. Consider factors like zoning, accessibility, future growth potential, and total cost.
    Tip: NEPA zoning regulations and municipal requirements can vary significantly, so having someone familiar with the area will help you avoid costly surprises.
  5. Perform due diligence
    Ensure there are no surprises after closing with inspections, financial reviews, and legal checks.
  6. Close the deal
    Finalize terms, secure your approval, and complete the purchase with confidence.

Should You Buy or Lease Office Space?

There’s no universal answer, but there is a right answer for your situation.

Buy if your business is stable, growing, and planning to stay in one location for the long-term. Buying allows you to build equity and create a permanent foundation.

Lease if you need flexibility, are still scaling, or want to preserve capital for other investments. Leasing gives you the versatility to keep up as your business evolves.

 

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Whether you’re early in the process or actively researching how to buy a commercial property, having a clear strategy makes all the difference. 

At Realty Network Group, we’ll help you talk through your situation with a local commercial real estate professional, who will listen to your most pressing needs and understands the Northeastern Pennsylvania market. Reach out to our team and evaluate what makes the most sense for your business.

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Why Buying A Home Is A Good Investment

Tired of renting? We know that feeling: When you realize you’re paying every month for a place you’re not allowed to paint. Or when you get your latest lease renewal and you’re shocked at the price jump. You find yourself scrolling through listings late at night and asking: Is it the right time to buy a house?

It’s easy to get caught up in interest rates, inventory, and predictions. But buying a home isn’t just a market decision, it’s a life decision. When you’re thinking about putting down roots, timing becomes less about chasing that non-existent perfect moment and more about recognizing when you’re ready for what’s next.

When to Buy a House Depends on Personal Readiness

For most first-timers wondering when to buy a house, the answer comes down to stability. Are you planning to stay in Northeastern PA for several years? Do you have a steady income? Manageable debt? Enough savings for upfront costs like the down payment, earnest money and home inspection (to mention a few)? If you’re unsure what upfront costs to expect, resources like HUD’s homebuyer guide help break down what first-time homebuyers should plan for.

Interest rates keep rising and falling, and inventory shrinks and grows. But if you’re planning to own your home for more than a few years, those short-term movements don’t matter as much as your long-term plan. Readiness comes from financial and personal preparation, not a crystal ball.

Building Equity Creates Long-Term Wealth

One of the biggest financial advantages of homeownership is the ability to build equity — the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. With each mortgage payment, you gain equity in an asset that can grow in value instead of paying rent and starting from scratch every year.

Over time, that equity can become a valuable financial tool. It can help pay for your next home or those big renovations you dreamed about when you first moved in. For many homeowners, their property becomes one of their most significant assets.

Appreciation Adds Value Over Time

In markets like NEPA, real estate has historically appreciated over the long term. That growth, combined with paying down your mortgage balance, can strengthen your overall financial position.

For first-time buyers, entering the market means starting that clock. The earlier you begin building equity and benefiting from appreciation, the more opportunity there is for long-term gain. Real estate rewards patience and consistency.

Stability Brings Peace of Mind

Homeownership also provides stability that many renters are looking for. A fixed-rate mortgage offers predictable monthly payments, which can make overall budgeting easier year after year. You’re not left worrying how much your housing costs might increase at the next lease renewal.

There’s also something deeply satisfying about owning your space. You can paint the walls, get a pet (or three) and make updates that reflect your unique style. More than a financial investment, your house becomes home sweet home.

Making a Confident Decision

If you’re asking when to buy a house, take a moment to look at your bigger picture. Are you financially prepared? Do you see yourself staying put for several years? Are you ready for the responsibilities that come with ownership? Those answers will provide more clarity than any market forecast.

Buying a home is a significant milestone. It can feel intimidating at first, especially if you’re navigating the process for the first time. With experienced local guidance and a clear understanding of your goals, the path forward becomes much more manageable.

Final Thoughts

At Realty Network Group, we believe purchasing a home should reflect what’s truly best for you. Our team combines deep local knowledge of Northeastern Pennsylvania with a client-first approach, so you’re never left guessing about your next step. If you’re thinking about when to buy a house, reach out to us today and we’ll help you evaluate your options with a plan that fits your goals.

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Why Homes Sit on the Market: 5 Fixable Reasons

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 Don’t let your home sit—let it stand above the rest of the competition and be noticed. If there’s one thing we counsel our clientele on today, it’s making a distinction between their home and others “on the market, not selling.” What are the unique selling points of their home? What is the state of the market, even as granular as their neighborhood? Are there comparable properties selling right now? Putting together a vivid picture of the subject property and how to elevate it above other similar homes could mean the difference between fewer days on market and maybe even a multiple offer situation. Understanding why homes sit on the market can help sellers create an effective strategy.

1. Pricing

This is the obvious. The elephant in the room. We’d be deceiving ourselves if we didn’t mention this one first, because it’s the most important and for good reason. Remember, the whole process for a buyer begins (or should begin) with an honest assessment of what they can afford and tailoring their search around that benchmark. The buyer consults a mortgage lender, discovers how much they’re pre-approved for, compares that to their financial situation, determines their must-haves when previewing homes, and investigates the market. Homebuyers, especially if they’ve been searching for some time, have an eye for present circumstances and how compatible properties have fared.

Sellers who better understand what buyers are witnessing in terms of pricing can better estimate and position their property for its initial release. That’s why having a REALTOR® generate a competitive market analysis (CMA) tailored to the seller’s home is ideal for understanding how to price it correctly. Although we might be in a period of correction, the market still favors sellers. Because of this, real estate professionals may advise homeowners to set their list price toward the higher end of its value range.

2. Repairs

When owners anticipate selling, they should review all aspects of their property to determine what needs repair and what could benefit from an upgrade. Ideally, this should be done months ahead of time. Consulting a REALTOR® can help owners judge which repairs or updates would help sell the home and which ones to avoid. Sellers want to skip changes that buyers won’t care about or that might negatively affect value.

Some homeowners pursue a “pre-listing” inspection, where a professional evaluates the home and pinpoints potential issues to address before listing. Though less common, this step can be extremely beneficial in certain cases and prevent scenarios where homes sit on the market due to condition concerns.

3. Curb Appeal

We emphasize this often—because it matters. Do you want increased engagement and more prospective buyers to see your home? One of the quickest ways to attract attention, both online and for in-person showings, is to create an inviting atmosphere. The exterior facade will either captivate or deter onlookers. It’s that simple. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, fresh landscaping, trimmed shrubbery, and a new garage door can all enhance appeal.

However, homeowners shouldn’t go overboard. Changes that don’t appeal to most buyers or that seem too high maintenance could turn people off. Sellers should avoid spending on upgrades that won’t deliver a return on investment. Enhancing curb appeal the right way can make a difference in why homes sit on the market or sell quickly.

4. Buyer Incentives

Offering buyers and their agents meaningful perks can help your home stand out. One popular incentive is a home warranty, which covers the home while it’s listed and provides coverage for the buyer after closing. This protects both parties and adds peace of mind.

Other incentives include seller concessions or closing credits. These financial boosts help buyers cover costs and may tip the scales in your favor. Some sellers offer a buyer’s agent bonus, which encourages agents to prioritize showing your home. These strategies can help minimize why homes sit on the market for extended periods.

5. Marketing

Investing in a knowledgeable real estate professional who understands current market conditions can reduce time on the market. Experienced agents know how to position a property for maximum exposure and understand what’s selling—and why.

Sellers should choose a REALTOR® and brand with a track record of attracting a large pool of buyers. Aggressive, strategic marketing and a willingness to go the extra mile are must-haves. Agents should have a clear plan for how to get your home noticed and shown. Without strong marketing, it’s easy to see why homes sit on the market unnecessarily.

Take Action Now

As a homeowner, some factors—like location or costly upgrades—may be out of your control. But the five listed above are well within reach. Sitting down with your agent to create a strategy based on these tips can ultimately reduce the number of days your home stays listed. Understanding why homes sit on the market helps sellers prepare and adjust before listing.

If you’re considering selling, even if it’s months away, it’s never too early to plan. Contact one of our professionals today to get started!

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Post Pandemic: What Does Real Estate Look Like?

The 2020 pandemic accelerated remote work, changed what people wanted from their homes, and contributed to a period of intense demand and rapidly rising prices. Several years later, those effects have not completely disappeared. Buyers are still prioritizing space, flexibility, and affordability, while many homeowners remain reluctant to give up the low mortgage rates they secured during the pandemic. For anyone searching for houses for sale in Northeastern PA, these lingering changes continue to shape what is available and how quickly desirable properties sell.

So, what does post-pandemic real estate look like today, and what should buyers and sellers expect in the Greater Scranton area?

Why Today’s Market Is Different

One of the most lasting effects of the pandemic housing market is the shortage of available homes.

Many homeowners purchased or refinanced when mortgage rates were historically low. Selling now could mean trading that rate for a much higher one, making some owners hesitant to move. This “lock-in effect” has limited the number of existing homes entering the market and contributed to continued supply constraints.

New construction has not fully closed the gap either. National housing supply remains constrained, particularly for affordable and entry-level homes, which keeps competition alive even as the overall market moves at a more measured pace than it did during the height of the pandemic.

For buyers viewing houses for sale in Northeastern PA, that means the number of options may vary considerably by community, property type, and price range.

It is understandable that buyers and sellers may compare today’s uncertainty to the housing crash of 2007 through 2010. However, the conditions surrounding the current market are different.

Before the Great Recession, housing supply was much higher, lending standards were looser, and many homeowners had little equity in their properties. Today’s borrowers generally face more rigorous qualification requirements, and limited housing supply continues to support home values.

The market has certainly cooled from the unusually competitive conditions of 2020 and 2021. That does not automatically point to a widespread crash. Instead, the market is adjusting to higher borrowing costs, slower price growth, and buyers who must be more selective about what they can afford.

What the Post-Pandemic Market Means for Sellers

Sellers should not expect every property to attract immediate offers above asking price. The urgency that defined the height of the pandemic market has eased, and buyers are paying closer attention to price, condition, and monthly affordability.

Still, limited inventory can work in a seller’s favor. Well-maintained homes that are priced appropriately may continue to receive strong interest, particularly in desirable neighborhoods and more affordable price ranges.

What Buyers Should Expect

Buyers face a different set of challenges. Mortgage rates remain considerably higher than the record lows available during the pandemic, affecting both purchasing power and monthly payments. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is around 6.66%  in 2026, although individual rates vary based on the borrower, lender, and loan.

The good news is that buyers may have more negotiating room than they did during the peak pandemic years. Some properties sell below their original asking prices, and buyers may be able to negotiate repairs, closing costs, or other terms depending on the home and level of competition.

However, affordable and move-in-ready houses for sale in Northeastern PA can still attract attention quickly. Buyers should be prepared to act when a property meets their needs without allowing competition to push them beyond a comfortable budget.

The Houses for Sale in Northeastern PA Continue to Offer Value

Affordability remains one of our region’s greatest advantages. Compared with many larger markets throughout Pennsylvania and the Northeast, buyers can often find lower home prices and more space in communities throughout the Greater Scranton area.

This region also appeals to buyers who gained more flexibility after the pandemic. Remote and hybrid work can make it possible to live farther from a traditional office, while still remaining within reach of New York, Philadelphia, and other employment centers.

These factors help explain why interest in houses for sale in Northeastern PA has continued beyond the initial pandemic-era surge.

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Forward-Thinking: The Key To Real Estate

Realty Network Group’s newest REALTOR®, Lisa Armetta, looks forward to the demands of today’s real estate market. Lisa has lived in Northeastern Pennsylvania her whole life. She understands the region, the culture, but most especially its inhabitants. “Our community is loaded with hidden treasures, including its people,” attests Lisa. “Locals need an advocate who will act (when need be) and guide them through the real estate search, transaction and beyond.”

With over thirty years experience in all facets of the restaurant and bar industry, Lisa understands firsthand how to treat clients well. Repeat business has always been extremely important to her! When customers come back, time and time again, it says something about your business: your product and your personal brand. Leaning upon her achievements in managing thriving area businesses, her focus now has shifted. Running a successful real estate business is her goal.

It’s important to work with professionals who understand how daunting the purchase of a home or business can be — it’s a large investment, to say the least. Lisa recognizes how vital it is for those involved to be comfortable with their purchase. Her wish is for her clients to not only see the property for what it is, but also be able to experience it for what it could be, its potential, a reflection of them.

“I chose Realty Network Group because it’s a small business, who’s very involved in our community,” asserts Lisa. “They have a wonderful reputation for supporting their agents and their clients. I’ve spent most of my career building small businesses, where people are family. I desired a company who was inline with that philosophy. My hope is to help prospective buyers find the right property to build their ‘family,’ even if it’s a business one, and help sellers find the right buyer.”

Being involved in real estate over the years, Lisa has a good understanding of potential setbacks for buyers and sellers. Forward-thinking is essential in this business. When Lisa sees opportunity for her and her clients, she acts. She’s an achiever, who will work tirelessly for her clients’ needs. She’s ready for the challenges that lie ahead in this market as well as the next one.

Seeking the services of a professional, but you’re hesitant because of a prior bad experience? If you’re thinking about making a move in 2021, call Lisa Armetta today at 570-840-1793 or via email at larmetta@realtynetwork.net.

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The Same Principles Apply

Realty Network Group’s newest REALTOR® is a native of the Scranton area and currently resides in Eynon. “I understand that where you live and who you represent are most important,” describes Michael Turlip. “These values have been instrumental in my life and continue to guide my endeavors.” Mike Turlip graduated from the University of Scranton in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. From there he served in the U.S. Army for four years as a Military Policeman. In January of 2002, he was deployed to Afghanistan following the events that occurred on September 11, 2001. Upon returning, he completed an overseas tour in Europe, serving as a member of NATO at the Supreme Allied Headquarters in Belgium. His experience in the military has instilled in him what it means to sacrifice and serve others. In 2005, he was accepted to the Pennsylvania State Police Academy in Hershey, Pennsylvania. For the past sixteen years, Mike has continued to serve the public as a Pennsylvania State Trooper.

“My experience in public service has embodied the principles that we as Americans should strive for every opportunity we can,” emphasizes Mike. “I’m thankful for my experience and wish to utilize this drive, which has developed from my military background, in order to be successful. My success will translate to success for my clients and that’s my priority.” Mike understands how central buyers and sellers are to real estate in 2021. He grasps the connection between homeowners, investors and tenants far greater than most real estate professionals who are beginning to grow their business.

Mike has always had an affinity for real estate. Eight years ago, he purchased his first investment property. “I think real estate has always offered me a challenge that intrigues me,” asserts Mike. Whether it’s buying a fixer-upper and transforming it back to a neighborhood treasure or investing in rental properties that provide affordable, well-maintained housing to those in the community, the growth of his portfolio has meant more to him than sheer assets. Investing in our community is foremost, and coupled with his passion to serve others. As a real estate professional, Mike fully intends to provide his clients with knowledgeable service, based on his experience, while taking into consideration their real estate goals.

For the past two decades, Mike has served in some of the most prestigious organizations in the country. The principles conveyed through them, led him to Realty Network Group. This company takes pride in serving its clients well and adheres to the highest standards in the real estate community. Loyalty and service to those we represent coincide with his values as a veteran and a State Trooper. He looks forward to applying these same principles to assist and meet all of his clients’ real estate needs.

If you’re seeking the services of a real estate professional who is dedicated to finding your forever home or selling your current one, contact Michael Turlip today directly at 570-290-4421 or via email at mturlip@realtynetwork.net.

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Selling Beyond Home

Alice Manley is the newest agent to join forces with Realty Network Group. She infuses thirty years of sales expertise with an interest and passion for matching up buyers and sellers. Connecting both parties in a real estate transaction is more than a science. There’s an art to marketing homes or leading buyers in pursuit of theirs. Alice’s vast experience in media and hospitality are added advantages for her and her clients.

Alice will be a valuable asset to the firm as she brings a strong work ethic and a motivation to succeed into the field. She has a desire to work hard for her clients understanding that sometimes you don’t get a second chance to sell for the best price, terms and conditions as trends change. She’s also committed to homebuyers as they begin what will be a remarkable journey toward homeownership! She’s driven to succeed, realizing her successes will be victories for her clients too. Another strength for Alice is her problem-solving abilities. She has an uncanny sense for stopping issues in their tracks and moving toward a resolution that’s acceptable to everyone involved, especially her buyers/sellers.

“If it doesn’t feel right, we’ll search until it does,” expresses Alice. Her words to buyers never ring truer than they do now in a seller’s market. “Your ‘forever home’ wraps you in comfort like an old blanket, gives you refuge during difficult days and is always waiting for you after a long journey. Everyone deserves this and I look forward to bringing this experience to others.”

Alice has lived her entire life in Northeastern Pennsylvania. She loves all the area has to offer, including its seasons, natural landscapes and close-knit communities. She hopes those moving into the region or growing into it can have these experiences as well. “It’s an exciting time in real estate in NEPA,” underscores Alice. “I chose Realty Network Group because of a working relationship I had with one of its owners. It was knowing this person that attracted me to the company. I was certain of the value, integrity and respect I would find there. Furthermore, they train each new REALTOR®, like myself, which was incredibly important to me.”

Are you seeking the services of a real estate professional who’s extremely motivated and will work hard for your interests? Contact Alice Manley now at 570-954-3701 or via email at amanley@realtynetwork.net.

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Every Step Of The Way

Realty Network Group welcomes a new addition to its network of real estate professionals. Her name is Sarah Farrell and her unique skill set offers promise to future clients of the firm. As a native of Northeastern Pennsylvania and a current resident of the Abingtons, Sarah is very familiar with the areas in and around Lackawanna and Luzerne counties. She looks forward to connecting buyers and sellers in a variety of ways as she begins her real estate career.

Her skill set includes, but is not limited to, over twelve years experience in marketing, sales and management for industries pertaining to resorts and travel. She has a background in creative design, which will inevitably enhance her sellers’ ability to showcase their homes, especially when staging. Furthermore, she has a natural ability to connect with consumers while keeping the lines of communications open – a vital part of real estate – ask any successful, veteran REALTOR®.

“I love many aspects of real estate,” emphasizes Sarah. “I’ve always been intrigued by the market, looking at the trends in addition to discovering a home’s special character. That is, how it’s differentiated from the rest. And while HGTV is always ‘background music’ in my home, finding out what makes specific neighborhoods in our region tick is an essential trademark to suitably marketing properties.” Sarah has her sights set on a long and prosperous career in this industry. She’s passionate about getting her feet wet, helping her clients find their forever home or getting top dollar for her sellers.

“I look forward to expanding Realty Network Group’s footprint in NEPA,” underscores Sarah. “They’re an established, up-and-coming company, who offers a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to agents in the field. It felt like an instant fit for me. I love the camaraderie, which exists there. From what I’ve witnessed and heard, there’s a culture of support and encouragement within the company. I’m very happy to be part of this organization.”

The company will continue to grow with agents like Sarah, professionals who understand how cumbersome the real estate process can be at times. Going through this process herself, she knows how imperative being there for her clients is – being present every step of the way. She has a great work ethic and believes integrity and honesty are two of the most important traits a REALTOR® should possess. She also currently serves on a variety of boards in our community including Meeting Planners International, Middle PA Chapter (Vice-President of Education), Northeast Chapter of the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association and American Cancer Society, Northeast Chapter (advisory committee).

If you’re seeking the services of a real estate professional who will work hard for you and your goals, contact Sarah Farrell today directly at 570-417-6932 or via email at sfarrell@realtynetwork.net.

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