Job Title: Real Estate Associate

Job Summary: As a Real Estate Associate, you will be responsible for providing legal support and representation to clients engaged in various real estate transactions and matters. Working within a legal team or under the supervision of senior attorneys, you will assist in the negotiation, drafting, and review of real estate contracts, leases, financing agreements, and other related documents.

Responsibilities:

1. Transaction Management: Assist in managing real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, leases, and financing arrangements. Coordinate with clients, lenders, real estate agents, title companies, and other parties to ensure smooth and timely completion of transactions.

2. Due Diligence: Conduct due diligence investigations on behalf of clients to evaluate the legal and financial aspects of real estate properties. Review title reports, surveys, zoning ordinances, environmental assessments, and other relevant documents to identify potential issues and risks.

3. Contract Negotiation: Assist in negotiating and drafting real estate contracts, purchase agreements, lease agreements, and other legal documents. Ensure that contracts accurately reflect the terms and conditions negotiated by the parties and comply with applicable laws and regulations.

4. Title Examination: Review title commitments and title insurance policies to verify the ownership status of real property, identify encumbrances or defects in title, and address any title-related issues that may arise during the transaction process.

5. Financing Arrangements: Assist in negotiating and documenting real estate financing arrangements, including mortgages, deeds of trust, promissory notes, and loan agreements. Coordinate with lenders and borrowers to facilitate loan closings and disbursements.

6. Land Use and Zoning: Provide legal advice and assistance to clients regarding land use regulations, zoning laws, and permitting requirements. Advocate for clients in zoning hearings, land use appeals, and other administrative proceedings.

7. Lease Administration: Review and negotiate commercial and residential lease agreements on behalf of landlords and tenants. Address lease disputes, defaults, and other lease-related issues as they arise.

8. Client Communication: Maintain regular communication with clients to provide updates on transaction progress, address inquiries, and ensure that client objectives are being met. Provide timely and practical legal advice to clients on real estate matters.

Qualifications:

1. Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
2. Admission to the state bar and in good standing with the relevant jurisdiction.
3. Previous experience in real estate law, either through internships, clerkships, or prior employment, preferred but not required for entry-level positions.
4. Strong understanding of real estate transactions, contracts, and legal principles.
5. Excellent negotiation, drafting, and analytical skills, with attention to detail.
6. Familiarity with real estate finance, title examination, and land use/zoning regulations preferred.
7. Proficiency in legal research tools and software, such as Westlaw or LexisNexis.
8. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
9. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients and colleagues.