Tag Archive for: Wilkes-Barre

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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Realty Network Group Named “Best of 2025” by Business Rate

We’re thrilled to announce that Realty Network Group has been named the “Best of 2025” Real Estate Agency by Business Rate!

This prestigious award reflects our agents’ dedication, the strong relationships we’ve built across Northeastern Pennsylvania with our clients, and the trust they place in us. It’s a powerful testament to our company’s commitment to excellence.

The annual “Best of” awards celebrate local business excellence. The winners for this award are chosen based on public nominations, verified client reviews, demonstrated service excellence, community involvement and professionalism. Being selected as the top agency affirms our goal of delivering a superior service.

Our selection validates the hard work we put into every real estate interaction. The rigorous process combines community feedback and performance data. It also focuses on high client satisfaction, strong industry reputation, service consistency, innovation and local engagement. This award confirms we’re delivering exceptional service to all our clients — from first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors. This is always our hope.

To our cherished clients, partners and the entire community — thank you! Your ongoing trust, referrals and feedback are our driving force. Every success and referral you provide makes this award just as much yours. We’re especially grateful to everyone who continues to support our company and our real estate professionals. You inspire us to raise the bar for real estate services in the Greater Scranton area and beyond.

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Atlas Realty, Inc. Now With A New Face

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Two Real Estate Agencies Built On Integrity Join Forces To Better Serve Region

Real estate is one of the most personal jobs which exists today. Unique relationships are forged between realty professionals and their clients. Many of them develop into life-long business affairs, friendships even. Thus, there’s an expectation from investors, homebuyers and sellers on day one that their interests will be safeguarded throughout the entire real estate process. Integrity and transparency are arguably two of the highest ideals in this industry, but often the perception by those transacting is that these values are lacking by agents in the field.

Recently, Atlas Realty, Inc., a company that has built itself upon integrity for over thirty-five years, decided to join together with Realty Network Group, another established company in the region. Since their inception, both businesses have valued the integrity of their brands and agents, holding it at the forefront of their mission. In 1988, Charles A. Adonizio, III founded Atlas Realty, Inc. and had been its Principal Broker throughout its complete tenure, leading up to its merger with Realty Network Group.

Now a new era begins for Atlas Realty, Inc., one under the leadership of Dianne Montana, the Principal Broker for Realty Network Group. “We’re excited to join Atlas Realty on this new chapter of our company,” emphasizes Mrs. Montana. “Charlie (Charles A. Adonizio, III), Lu-Ann (J. Sperrazza) and Kevin (V. Sobilo) grasp the Greater Wilkes-Barre market better than most agents in our profession. They’re vital to our success as we look to expand into Luzerne County.” Over the past few decades, Atlas Realty, Inc. has promoted the Greater Pittston area and surrounding communities. In fact, they’ve directly impacted the growth of this locality.

Atlas Realty

Charles Adonizio has guided his Brokerage through the sale of hundreds of properties throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. “We’re committed to providing our clients the highest level of service, while adhering to the upmost ethical standards in our business,” explains Mr. Adonizio. “In a market where there’s pressure to win regardless of the cost, we’ve never stooped down nor sacrificed our ideals in order to gain an unfair advantage over our competition. We’ve discovered another company, in Realty Network Group, who holds to this same standard in how they and their professionals operate.”

Charles has quite a resume over the years: He’s received the professional designation of Graduate, REALTORS® Institute (GRI) as well as the Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation. Twice he’s earned the honors of the PAR Excellence Award from the Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS®, which is only awarded to a select group statewide. He’s been incredibly active with the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce in the past, having served two terms on their Board of Directors. He’s worked as a member of the Luzerne County Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors, including serving as President of the Board ten years ago (2014-2015). He’s also been part of the Board of Directors for the Greater Pittston YMCA and the Greater Pittston Jaycees.

Atlas Realty

Like Charles, Lu-Ann Sperrazza is another asset to Realty Network Group. Her belief in a “team”-like approach to the business has enabled her and her clients to have success. She’s loyal, having been with Atlas Realty, Inc. throughout her entire real estate career. As a native to Northeastern Pennsylvania, she has always wanted her clients to believe they had a voice and were being understood. This manner of conducting business has been a means for growth. It’s allowed her to truly connect with her buyers and sellers, while operating in a way where there are few, if any, regrets. “In real estate,” articulates Mrs. Sperrazza, “we’re assisting people, helping them find the place where they’ll raise their family and create many wonderful memories.”

Atlas Realty

Last, but not least, Kevin adds a diverse skill set to the network of agents at Realty Network Group. Much like Charles and Lu-Ann, his family has a history of real estate, moreover, Kevin is an active real estate investor. He desires to understand more about landlords and tenants, who are facing difficult circumstances, both for his own growth in addition to helping those who find themselves in similar situations. Living in the area for well over two decades and being a licensed real estate professional for over fifteen years, Kevin’s strength lies in his ability to effectively communicate with investors. He’s an asset to them and to our firm.

In an industry that has been through a little turmoil and a myriad of changes over the past few years, Realty Network Group understands that client relationships are paramount. Atlas Realty, Inc. and their professionals understand this too. Moving forward, the combination of the two companies makes for stronger connections between buyers and sellers.

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Downtown Living In Northeastern Pennsylvania

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Downtown Living in Northeastern Pennsylvania

Downtown living is a different way of life, especially in Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA). Whether it’s Scranton or Wilkes-Barre, residents enjoy more amenities within reach and a different approach to everyday life than in many surrounding communities.

Downtown living provides options, not only for how people conduct their daily activities, but also for how they interact with their community.

Downtown living in NEPA is often viewed as the opposite of the more rural lifestyle many residents experience. Most of our school districts serve children from small towns and countryside communities. Heck, even some locals joke that driving into downtown Scranton is like entering “the big city.”

Yet many residents have relocated here from major metropolitan areas. To them, Scranton offers downtown living on a much smaller and more manageable scale.

Scranton’s History and Continued Revitalization

The Electric City, as Scranton is also known, was built on the shoulders of coal-mining families and has evolved into something of a regional legend.

On November 30, 1886, the first streetcar system powered entirely by electricity debuted in downtown Scranton. Neighborhoods that once centered around Irish, Italian, Polish, German, and Jewish communities have evolved into a cultural melting pot that continues to shape the city today.

You can see that influence throughout the local dining scene, from Thai Rak Thai to north-side favorites like Casa Bella and Ipanema Grille.

Today, there’s a new-found sense of hope for a rebirth movement in this city.

What Makes Downtown Living Successful?

The rebirth of a city plays a major role in downtown living done right.

Some of the key ingredients include:

  • Walkable neighborhoods
  • Mixed-use commercial development
  • Gathering spaces for recreation, education, and entertainment
  • A strong residential presence
  • Accessible and affordable parking

While these aren’t the only factors that help a downtown thrive, they should be on everyone’s radar.

We believe Scranton is building toward something spectacular. There is still work to be done, but economic revitalization efforts led by the city and organizations such as Scranton Tomorrow have made a significant impact. It’s difficult to overstate how important this volunteer-driven organization has been to transforming downtown Scranton in recent years.

Building a Walkable Downtown Community

Walkability is one of the foundations of successful downtown living.

Wide sidewalks, decorative streetscapes, green spaces, and efforts to reduce graffiti and litter all help create a more welcoming environment for pedestrians.

A mixed-use mindset regarding development is equally important. Residents want to feel connected to the larger community around them. They want convenient access to businesses, services, and gathering places while still feeling like they’re part of something bigger.

Community connection goes beyond shopping and dining. Events, breweries, performing arts centers, fairs, movie theaters, parks, and artisan markets all contribute to the kind of downtown living experience that attracts both residents and visitors.

People want downtown living to feel like their city’s family room, especially during evenings and weekends.

Downtown Living After COVID

Since COVID, many businesses throughout NEPA have adapted in creative ways.

Restaurants and pubs have expanded outdoor dining opportunities, converted underutilized spaces, and created semi-covered patios and gathering areas. Hotels, convention centers, and other businesses have also adjusted, but local restaurants have often led the way in reimagining how people experience downtown spaces.

These changes have helped create a more lively and flexible downtown environment for residents and visitors alike.

The Future of Downtown Living in Scranton

One encouraging trend for downtown living has been the decline in vacant commercial space.

When businesses lease additional space, expand operations, or invest in the downtown area, the entire community wins. Likewise, when developers focus on creating spaces that support a balanced lifestyle rather than serving a single purpose, downtown districts become more attractive places to live, work, and spend time.

In Scranton, Noteology is one example of a business that has continued investing in the downtown area and contributing to its growth.

Successful downtown living is ultimately about creating a shared experience for residents and visitors. When people create memories, build connections, and develop a sense of place, the foundation for a thriving downtown begins to take shape.

Successful downtowns don’t sprout up overnight. They take time, hard work, cooperation, vision, patience, and community support.

Creating a true live-work-play environment in Scranton, or anywhere, takes all of these elements working together.

* Image courtesy of Discover NEPA

Real Estate and Houses for Sale in Scranton, PA

Commercial Properties for Sale Near Scranton, PA

Lake Houses for Sale Near Scranton, PA

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NEPA Pizza Tour 2021

More than five years ago, we featured our top five pizza destinations in Northeastern Pennsylvania. And while much has changed since then, many of the same staples remain within our region. (Sauce, cheese and crust… It’s not that complicated, right?!) Actually, there are many styles and flavors of pizza in our area. If you don’t believe us, ask locals what their favorite pizza is and you’ll be amazed by the responses you’ll receive.

Northeastern Pennsylvania is home to some of the best pizza. Is there better pizza in America than what you’ll discover in the Pizza Capital of Pennsylvania? Absolutely (maybe New Haven, Connecticut?), but NEPA has a distinctly unique taste and variation to their pie (or trays as some may describe them) that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. Barstool Sports founder and notorious pizza aficionado, David Portnoy, even made the trip into NEPA last year to give his opinion on Old Forge style pizza in addition to some well-known pizza spots in Wilkes-Barre, Exeter and Scranton.

Tour some of our favorites, especially during Lent, and let us know which ones we missed.

NEPA Pizza Hotspots (in no particular order):

Pizza L’Oven – Exeter
Colarusso’s Coal Fire Pizza – Dickson City
Arcaro & Genell – Old Forge
Angelo’s Pizza – Wilkes-Barre
Pizza Perfect – Trucksville
Maroni’s Pizza – West Scranton
Sabatini’s Pizza – Exeter
Gerry’s Pizzeria – Wilkes-Barre
Cebula’s Pizza – Dupont
Senape’s Tavern – Hazleton
Andy’s Pizza – Peckville
A Little Pizza Heaven – Scranton
Shelley’s Pizza – Luzerne
Rosario’s – Clarks Summit
Mariano’s La Puccia – Exeter

Check out NEPA Pizza Review. They do a fantastic job of reviewing some of the best and new pizza our region has to offer.

Honorable mentions:

Cali’s Don Tomaso – Dunmore
Two Guys From Italy – Factoryville
Cusumano – Old Forge
Pizza By Pappas – Scranton
Duke’s Pizza – Dunmore
Colarusso’s Cafe – Clarks Summit
Brick Oven Pizzeria – Scranton
Calabria Pizza – Dunmore
Germana’s Pizzeria – Nicholson
Amadeo’s – Moosic
Mary Lou’s Pizza – Old Forge

 

[Updated June 10, 2022]

 

See out latest pizza post here.

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