At MacElree Harvey, our real estate and land use attorneys represent builders, developers, investors, and landowners in a full range of property-related legal matters. Whether you are acquiring land, seeking zoning approval, developing a residential or commercial project, or facing an eminent domain proceeding, we provide the strategic guidance needed to protect your investment and move your project forward. 

Our clients include private landowners, entrepreneurial developers, and institutional investors. We advise on projects of all sizes. From small-scale residential subdivisions to large commercial, industrial, and mixed-use developments. Our experience spans: 

• Shopping centers and retail developments 

• Office buildings and business parks 

• Apartment complexes and condominium conversions 

• Industrial warehouses and manufacturing facilities 

• Hotels, resorts, and hospitality projects 

• Planned residential communities and housing developments 

Full-Service Real Estate & Land Use Counsel 

We guide clients through every stage of real estate development and land use planning, including: 

• Real estate acquisition — drafting and negotiating purchase agreements, due diligence, and title review 

• Subdivision & land development approvals — navigating local, county, and state requirements 

• Zoning variances, special exceptions, and conditional use approvals 

• Land use litigation & administrative proceedings — challenging or defending zoning board and municipal decisions 

• Environmental compliance — advising on environmental regulations, remediation, and permitting 

• Affordable housing development — securing incentives and meeting regulatory requirements 

• Development agreements & contracts — drafting, negotiation, and enforcement 

Specialized Areas of Expertise 

Our team also handles: 

• Urban redevelopment and revitalization projects 

• Public-private partnerships 

• Historic preservation and rehabilitation tax credits 

• Water rights and permitting 

• Easements, covenants, and servitudes 

• Eminent domain and condemnation proceedings — representing property owners and municipalities 

• Mechanics’ lien claims — prosecution and defense 

• Tax assessment appeals & tax exemption applications 

Why Choose MacElree Harvey for Real Estate & Land Use Matters? 

• Local insight — decades of experience with Pennsylvania and Delaware municipal regulations and approval processes 

• Multi-disciplinary support — collaboration with our business, environmental, tax, and litigation attorneys for comprehensive service 

• Proven results — successful representation of major commercial projects, residential communities, and complex redevelopment efforts 

• Strategic advocacy — whether negotiating with municipalities, presenting before zoning boards, or litigating in court 

FAQ: Real Estate & Land Use Law 

What is the difference between zoning and land use? 
Zoning regulates how property can be used within specific geographic areas, while land use law addresses broader issues of property development, planning, and environmental compliance. 

What is eminent domain? 
Eminent domain allows the government to acquire private property for public use, but property owners are entitled to fair market compensation. 

Can I challenge a zoning decision? 
Yes. If a zoning board denies your variance or conditional use request, you may appeal to the courts or pursue alternative approval methods. 

What permits are needed for new construction? 
Requirements vary by municipality but often include zoning approval, subdivision or land development approval, building permits, and environmental permits. 

Do you handle tax assessment appeals? 
Yes. We represent property owners in challenging over-assessed property taxes and in applying for tax exemptions. 

Let our attorneys guide you through every phase of development, zoning, and land use planning. Contact MacElree Harvey Real Estate and Land Use Department today.