Console Matison LLP

When a loved one passes away, selling their home to distribute proceeds or pay estate debts can feel like a logical first step. But in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, inherited property sales usually follow a specific legal sequence, and skipping a step can stall your transaction for months.

Knowing the timeline helps you set realistic expectations and keep the process moving.

To read the full guide on how to sell inherited property in Pennsylvania and New Jersey from Console Matison LLP partner Joseph Console, click here: https://consolematison.com/2026/09/17/how-to-sell-inherited-property-in-pennsylvania-and-new-jersey/

Before you sign an LOI on a Philly commercial-to-residential conversion, confirm your zoning path.

The zoning code determines whether your project is a straightforward approval or a multi-month public hearing, and most investors don't find out which one they're dealing with until the due diligence clock is already running.

Swipe through for a pre-acquisition zoning checklist from Console Matison, LLP partner Joseph Console: base district and permitted residential uses, every overlay that applies to the parcel, historic designation status, which legal path pertains to your project (matter of right, special exception, or variance), and the RCO landscape.

Each slide explains why that step matters before you commit, not after.

This is Part 1 of a 3-part series on converting commercial buildings to residential use in Philadelphia.

When getting married, a prenuptial agreement might be the last thing on your mind, but it can be an essential tool for providing financial clarity and peace of mind.

Without a prenup, default divorce laws in Pennsylvania and New Jersey dictate how your assets are divided, and the rules might surprise you.

If you are entering a second marriage, own a business, expect an inheritance, or have children from a prior relationship, a prenuptial agreement is often worth serious consideration.

In his latest blog post, Console Matison, LLP attorney Scott Matison shares key differences between PA and NJ laws, what makes a prenuptial agreement enforceable, and how to determine if one is right for your situation.

Read more: https://consolematison.com/2016/09/20/is-a-prenup-right-for-me/

We are proud to announce that Console Matison, LLP partner Joseph Console has been named to the 2026 Lawdragon 500 Leading Real Estate Lawyers, one of only 500 attorneys recognized nationwide for their excellence in real estate law.

Now in its third edition, the Lawdragon 500 Leading Real Estate Lawyers guide recognizes advisors who specialize in real estate development, finance, leasing, REITs, construction, and litigation. Being named to this list is a reflection of Joe’s exceptional skill, deep client commitment, and the impact of his work.

Congratulations, Joe!

See the full guide here: https://lnkd.in/egqzrVi2

College costs are one of the most overlooked issues in divorce agreements, and by the time your child is a high school senior, the window to plan has already closed.

The state you live in matters. New Jersey courts can order divorced parents to contribute to college expenses. Pennsylvania courts generally cannot, unless it was already written into the agreement.

Swipe through to learn more from Console Matison, LLP partner Scott Matison.

When a loved one passes away, selling their home to distribute the proceeds or pay estate debts seems like a straightforward next step. However, real estate transactions involving a deceased owner are rarely simple.

Many families and executors assume they can immediately sign a listing agreement and close a deal, only to find the transaction grinding to a halt. In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, unresolved probate issues, like waiting for legal authority, resolving co-heir disputes, or clearing state inheritance tax liens, can easily delay a sale for months.

Identifying these potential roadblocks early helps keep your real estate transaction on track and prevents you from losing buyers.

To read the full blog post on common probate issues that delay real estate transactions from Console Matison, LLP partner Joseph Console, click here: https://consolematison.com/2026/07/17/common-probate-issues-that-delay-real-estate-transactions/

Child support orders are often assumed to be straightforward, but in practice they raise more questions than answers. Does the order cover extracurriculars? What about health insurance or college? And can either parent control how the money is spent?

In his latest blog post, Console Matison, LLP attorney Scott Matison explains how child support works in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, what's included in base support, what counts as an "add-on" expense, and the key differences between the two states, including a major distinction when it comes to college costs.

Read more: https://consolematison.com/2026/07/06/what-expenses-does-child-support-actually-cover/

A new rooftop entertainment venue could soon become part of Camden's evolving waterfront.

Cloud 9 SkyLounge has been proposed for the rooftop of the Hinson Parking Garage, transforming underutilized space into a destination featuring panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline, dining, entertainment, and hospitality amenities.

Console Matison LLP partner Joseph Console is the attorney for the Cloud 9 developers.

If approved, the adaptive reuse project would support Camden's broader waterfront revitalization efforts by activating existing infrastructure, increasing tourism, creating jobs, and generating additional economic activity.

Read more in The Philadelphia Inquirer article here: https://www.inquirer.com/south-jersey/rooftop-nightclub-camden-waterfront-cloud-9-20260624.html?

Many parents ask: "At what age can my child decide which parent to live with?"

The answer is often more complicated than people expect.

In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, there is no specific age at which a child automatically chooses where they will live. Courts may consider a child's preference, but they must also evaluate many other factors when determining what arrangement is in the child's best interests.

Swipe through to learn more from Console Matison, LLP partner Scott Matison.

A Philadelphia property may have potential, but zoning can determine whether that potential can actually move forward.

A rowhome conversion, new business use, addition, storefront, or development project may require more than a permit. If the proposed use or structure does not comply with the Philadelphia Zoning Code, the owner may need a zoning variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

Understanding that process early can help property owners, investors, developers, and business owners avoid delays, unexpected costs, and missed opportunities.

To read the full article on zoning variances in Philadelphia from Console Matison partner Joe Console, click here: https://consolematison.com/2026/06/16/philadelphia-property-owners-guide-to-zoning-variances/