Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2018 
Gene R. Abercrombie is a real estate attorney whose practice is focused principally on commercial real estate transactions, zoning and land use, and related matters affecting the ownership, development, use, and disposition of real property.
Gene advises clients on commercial acquisitions and sales, leasing transactions, Section 1031 tax-deferred exchanges, zoning and planning matters, and real estate tax valuation appeals throughout Ohio. His practice also includes representation of condominium and homeowners’ associations, real estate brokerage matters, and mechanics’ lien issues. Drawing on decades of experience in real estate law, Gene brings a practical, business-oriented approach to transactions and disputes, with particular emphasis on identifying issues early and helping clients navigate complex legal and regulatory requirements efficiently.
Gene has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America® for Real Estate Law and was named the 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” for Real Estate Law in the Toledo, Ohio, metropolitan area.
Prior to joining Semro in November 2025, Gene had been a member of Eastman & Smith Ltd. since 2001.
Gene earned his B.B.A. in Finance from the University of Toledo and graduated cum laude from the University of Toledo College of Law in 1996.
His professional practice is complemented by longstanding involvement in the Toledo community. From 2015 through 2025, Gene served on the Executive Committee and as Secretary of ConnecToledo, a 501(c)(3) organization focused on the redevelopment and revitalization of downtown Toledo. In 2025, he was appointed a Trustee of the University of Toledo Foundation.
Outside of his legal practice, Gene enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, and participating in the tabletop gaming community.
Experience- Outside General Counsel for Northwest Ohio Realtors® since 2015.
- Representation of a national developer on zoning and planning issues for a $90 million lifestyle center in Maumee, Ohio.
- Representation of a county port authority in acquisition and redevelopment of brownfield sites involving former automobile manufacturing and petroleum refining.
- Coordination of all real estate aspects in connection with the sale of a privately held scrap management company to a publicly traded corporation with a sale price in excess of $1 billion.
- Acquisition of multiple parcels and buildings for construction of a $100 million multi-purpose downtown arena.
- Assisting the developer of a national restaurant chain on all real estate aspects for multiple new stores.
- Representation of a cell tower company in zoning hearings regarding special use permit for cell towers.
- Real estate tax appeals for a $40 million office tower in downtown Toledo, a $90 million lifestyle center in Maumee, Ohio, and a $175 million automobile manufacturing facility in Toledo, Ohio.
- Representation of franchisees of national franchises in the restaurant and fitness fields in connection with leasing needs.
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