Mid-level Real Estate Finance Associate Attorney

A law firm in Washington, DC, is seeking a Mid-level Real Estate Finance Associate Attorney with 3-6 years of experience in broad-based commercial real estate finance. The ideal candidate will have strong drafting and communication skills, be motivated to lead transactions, and collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients.

Duties:

• Manage and first-chair commercial real estate finance transactions under the guidance of senior attorneys.
• Draft and negotiate complex financing documents, including loan agreements, mortgages, and security instruments.
• Conduct due diligence reviews and manage closing processes for real estate finance transactions.
• Advise clients on legal and regulatory issues related to real estate finance and lending.
• Collaborate with clients, lenders, and other stakeholders to ensure transactional success and client satisfaction.
• Provide strategic counsel and support on various real estate finance matters.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the District of Columbia Bar and in good standing.
• 3-6 years of experience practicing real estate finance law at a reputable law firm or in-house legal department.
• Solid understanding of commercial real estate transactions, financing structures, and related legal principles.
• Experience in first-chairing or desire to take on a lead role in transactions.
• Strong drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Team-oriented with a proactive and client-focused approach.

Preferred Skills:

• Background in complex real estate finance transactions, including structured finance and CMBS transactions.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance and risk management in real estate finance.
• Experience working with institutional lenders, developers, and investors.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contribution.
• Generous paid time off and vacation policy.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment promoting growth and advancement.

This large DC firm is known as a place that offers a broad and sophisticated practice, while also being very family friendly. Although salaries are slightly less than competitor firms as associates become more senior, this is reflected in the lower billable hour requirement, which seems to be welcomed by associates that seem to value a more balanced work and personal life. We hear that associates are treated with respect, the culture is exceptionally diverse and progressive, and pro bono work is valued beyond mere lip service.