Hall Of Fame

Real estate in Mexico

Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez, S.C.

Undoubtedly one of Mexico’s predominant forces in real estate practice, the ‘attentive’ and ‘robust’ team at Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez, S.C. garners praise for its ‘exceptional knowledge of real estate issues’ and skill at negotiation. The group’s expertise encompasses the regulatory aspects of direct and structured investment, and  strategic property acquisitions in the industrial, retail, commercial, tourism & leisure, residential and urban segments, as well as the development, management and operation of real estate projects. It is routinely instructed by local and multinational developers, promoters, tourism and hospitality companies, and investors – including real estate funds, Mexican CKDs, CERPIs and FIBRAs. The practice is co-led by Monterrey office head Francisco Montalvo, who has a strong track record advising domestic and multinational conglomerates on the acquisition and development of tourism, industrial and residential developments, as well as on the acquisition and divestiture of companies and assets in northern Mexico; and Carlos de Icaza, who works from Mexico City and has led on numerous innovative real estate transactions, often representing industrial groups, real estate investment trusts, development companies and private equity funds. Carlos del Río handles M&A, private equity and real estate transactions from the Mexico City office; Monterrey-based Badir Treviño-Mohamed advises real estate developers, administrators and investors (including international real estate funds, Mexican CKDs and FIBRAs), on the legal and regulatory aspects of investments in real estate for industrial, retail, commercial and tourism purposes. At of counsel level, key contacts include D&I director Valentina Villa and Alejandro Castelló, both of whom focus on real estate and environmental matters; Carlos Yamamoto (real estate and transactional matters); and Alfonso Pulido, who is seen by one client as ‘one of the best real estate lawyers in Mexico’ and is well-versed in the acquisition and sale of industrial and commercial real estate portfolios. Senior associate Brenda Elizondo is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Carlos de Icaza; Francisco Montalvo


Testimonials

Exceptional knowledge of real estate issues, and they negotiate very well with the counterparty on behalf of their clients.

The team is robust and always attentive.

Alfonso Pulido is undoubtedly one of the best real estate lawyers in Mexico. He always demonstrates his business focus, great expertise in the sector and his attention to detail.

They are the best lawyers in Mexico, with great talent and great respect for their clients. They know how to work well as a team and are great negotiators on behalf of their clients.

It is the best law firm in Mexico; the lawyers are excellent – humble, intelligent, hardworking; they always respond on time and make themselves available, they represent their clients well.

Key clients

Gran Ciudad


The Cadillac Fairview Corporation Limited


O’Connor Capital Partners


FIBRA Prologis


Alojica


Apex Tool Group Manufacturing México


Finsa


Equinix


Digital Colony


ROCA Desarrollos


Work highlights


  • Advised Grupo Alójica on the acquisition of the Westin hotel in Puerto Vallarta through the acquisition of the Mexican company owning the hotel.
  • Advised Grupo IGS on the sale of a portfolio of 40 industrial properties worth over $224m located in the states of Chihuahua, Nuevo León and Tamaulipas to 7UMEX.
  • Acted as counsel to Terrafina with respect to the negotiation and execution of a joint venture agreement with an international pension fund.

Greenberg Traurig, S.C.

The ‘talented and responsive’ team at Greenberg Traurig, S.C. is routinely instructed by property developers, lenders, investment managers and private equity funds for assistance with real estate matters. The group’s expertise encompasses the acquisition, development, financing and sale of commercial, recreational, and residential real estate, as well as the stabilisation of projects, loan restructurings, joint ventures, and lease agreements. The practice is co-led by an experienced duo comprising Antonio Diez De Bonilla Martinez, who is praised for his ‘exceptional negotiation skills’ and has focused his practice on joint ventures, M&A, and the sale, purchase and financing of real estate; and Gerardo Carrillo Valadez, who handles real estate development and M&A transactions, and also has niche knowledge of mixed use and multifamily properties. Tax specialist Eduardo Medina Zapata brings over two decades of experience to the table, and majors on tax consulting and the structuring of private and public real estate investment funds and joint ventures. Additional key figures include senior associates Roberto Guerrero C, who handles all types of transactions related to the development and financing of real estate projects; and Julio Sardina, who is singled out for his ‘creative problem-solving mindset. Sardina handles US-Mexico cross-border real estate matters, particularly the legal aspects of structuring and financing of residential, commercial, industrial and hospitality development projects. Since publication, Guerrero has been raised to shareholder - effective as of January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Antonio Diez de Bonilla Martinez; Gerardo Carrillo


Testimonials

The team is talented and responsive.

Antonio Diez de Bonilla has exceptional negotiation skills. He approached each aspect of the deal with a strategic and collaborative mindset, finding creative solutions to reach a favorable outcome for all parties involved.

Julio Sardina is remarkably responsive, and he also has demonstrated a level of knowledge and expertise well beyond his years of experience. Julio approaches challenges with a fresh perspective and a creative problem-solving mindset.

Greenberg Traurig is one of the few firms in Mexico with expertise in hotel branding and management agreements and related development agreements.

The Greenberg Traurig team is always up-to-date on issues related to the real estate industry and is very sensitive to macroeconomic factors that can affect transactions.

The team stands out for its focus and its ability to quickly adapt to the needs of the client.

The lawyers have great experience handling institutional matters. Antonio Diez de Bonilla is a great mediator with the ability to understand the needs of all parties involved.

Key clients

Accor


Capital 4


CCLA


Cinuk


Desarrolladora del Parque


Ennismore


Fibra Inn


Fibra Macquarie


Gentor


Grupo MZ


Grupo Lar


Hines


Holiday Inn Vacation Club


Hyatt Hotels Corporation


ICM Asset Management


Industrial Realty Group


Macquarie Asset Management


Mercado Libre


Nomad Living


O´Donnell


PGIM Real Estate


Playa Hotels & Resorts


PSP


Proximity Parks


Room Mate Hotels


The Sol Melia


Sura Asset Management


Walton Street Capital


Work highlights


  • Advised Hines Industries on a joint venture agreement with a global institutional investor for the development of logistics buildings and industrial parks in major population centers across Mexico.
  • Represented Holiday Inn Vacation Club in the acquisition of six-time share resorts in Quintana Roo Mexico from Royal Resorts.
  • Represented Accor in the negotiation of a management agreement and ancillary documents for the Mondrian Condesa Hotel in Mexico City, MGallery Hotel, Faena Resort, Mondrian and Jo & Joe resorts in Tulum, Quintana Roo.

Mijares, Angoitia, Cortés y Fuentes S.C.

The compact team at Mijares, Angoitia, Cortés y Fuentes S.C. has a first-rate real estate offering, and is adept at advising real estate investors, developers, and construction companies on transactional and regulatory matters. Well-equipped to handle commercial, industrial, residential, and tourism developments, the group also advises on real estate financings, asset and mortgage securitisation structures and M&A. The practice is jointly led by Lorenza Langarica, who is well-versed in structured financings, corporate, M&A, real estate and energy matters; and Eugenio Macouzet, who has focused his practice on advising hospitality companies and investors on the legal and regulatory aspects of real estate investments in the commercial, residential, hospitality and industrial sectors. Partner Carlos Jiménez Cantú has experience in portfolio acquisitions and the representation of FIBRAs in domestic and cross-border financing transactions; founding partner Patricio TradManuel Echave and Ignacio Armida are additional department figures of note. Associates Juan Pablo Betancourt (corporate, financings and transactional matters), Rodrigo González Duarte Morales (project finance, energy, M&A), and Imanol Sánchez-Mújica (real estate development), who is currently undertaking his LLM, all engage in real estate-related matters.

Practice head(s):

Lorenza Langarica; Eugenio Macouzet


Testimonials

Very good team of lawyers. Always available to help on short-notice. Pragmatic in their advice. One of my go-to-law firm for Mexico-related needs.

Lawyers specialized and focused on providing professional legal services with the highest quality.

Key clients

GIC Private Equity


Aligned Data Centers International


BBVA


HSBC


Credit Suisse


Ecoblock International


Work highlights


  • Advised GIC Private Equity on the execution of a management trust agreement along with Hines Interests.
  • Acted as Mexican counsel to Aligned Data Centers International in relation to the acquisition of the Mexican subsidiaries of ODATA from Brazil’s Patria Investimentos and CyrusOne.
  • Advised HSBC ,as lender, in the provision of a syndicated loan (granted jointly with BBVA) to Cabo LHR for up to $100m to refinance a loan agreement entered into with Goldman Sachs and for general corporate purposes.

Nader, Hayaux y Goebel, SC

The ‘skilled and experienced’ team at Nader, Hayaux y Goebel, SC is known for its experience in real estate project financings, lease agreements, joint ventures, due diligence work connected to real estate sales and purchases, and the creation of foreign investment trusts. The ‘professional and committed’ group is regularly instructed by major local and multinational banks, hotel groups and SOFOMES. Michell Nader steers the practice and handles financings, acquisitions and capital markets transactions in the real estate sector. Vanessa Franyutti is active on real estate finance and investment deals involving the retail, residential and industrial properties, and has additional niche expertise with regards to the hospitality segment. Eduardo Villanueva Ortiz routinely participates in complex cross-border real estate deals – namely financings, acquisitions and fund formation – in the retail, residential, industrial and hospitality segments. Alejandro Rojas covers real estate acquisitions and investments, often those involving hotels, industrial parks and time-share regimes; Javier Arreola and Julián Garza support on fund formation. Federico Vergara, who was promoted to of counsel in March 2022, assists on project finance, real estate and antitrust matters.

Practice head(s):

Michell Nader Schekaiban


Testimonials

The team is very professional and committed.

The team is skilled and experienced.

Key clients

Credit Suisse


Grupo Murano


Bancomext


Banco Sabadell


BBVA Bancomer


PGIM Real Estate


Scotiabank


SabCapital


Inmobiliaria Masach


Banco Santander Mexico


Marriott


Work highlights


  • Advised Grupo Murano on a proposed joint venture with commercial partners to finance real estate properties located in Mexico City and Cancun in excess of $1bn.
  • Advised Banco Sabadell, SabCapital and Santander on the $72m multiple draw senior secured credit facility to a Mexican-owned developer in the hospitality and vacation club sector.
  • Advised BBVA, as lender, on the negotiation, structuring and documentation of a secured credit facility granted to Walton for an amount of $205m.

Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C.

The team at Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C., commended by one client as ‘highly knowledgeable on both theoretical and practical aspects of the law’, routinely handles a broad range of matters including private and public real estate fund formation, financings and refinancings, as well as representing real estate investment trusts in their equity and debt investments in Mexico and assisting with related tax and regulatory issues. The group demonstrates strength above all with regards to industrial portfolios, however it also deals with office and residential real estate. Practice co-head Javier Domínguez Torrado has significant expertise advising real estate investment funds and other investors on property acquisitions, disposals, financings, and the development and management of assets. Leading alongside him, Jean Paul Farah Chajín specialises in M&A, infrastructure and real estate finance. Santiago Carrillo Cattori, promoted to the partnership in January 2022, majors on financings, acquisitions and developments relating to industrial and hotel assets, representing domestic and foreign financial institutions, private equity firms and developers. Alfonso Alberto Vargas, who handles finance, M&A and real estate matters, is the key name to note at associate level. Since publication, Vargas has left the firm - effective as of December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Javier Dominguez Torrado; Jean Paul Farah Chajín


Testimonials

The team is highly knowledgeable on both theoretical and practical aspects of the law; they are able to meet the client’s needs effectively.

Key clients

PGIM Real Estate


Corporación Inmobiliaria Vesta


BBVA


Walton Street Capital


Prologis


Banco Nacional de México


Torre Diana


Citibanamex


Thor Urbana Capital


Work highlights


  • Represented BBVA and a group of banks regarding FUNO’s $720m sustainable corporate financing, with the possibility of an extension to $750m.
  • Advised Prologis on the acquisition of an industrial real estate property for the construction of the industrial real estate development “Toluca Park 3”.
  • Represented Thor Urbana in the negotiation and execution of a credit agreement with BBVA for the financing of the construction of The Landmark residential center in Tijuana.

Baker McKenzie Abogados, S.C.

Lauded by one client as ‘one of the most skilled in the market’, the group at global powerhouse Baker McKenzie Abogados, S.C. is known for its broad real estate offering. It is well equipped to assist with land acquisitions, sale, purchase and lease agreements, financings and joint ventures, structuring and securitisations, as well as market entry and exit strategies. Operating from five strategic locations across the country – Guadalajara, Ciudad Juárez, Monterrey, Tijuana and Mexico City – the ‘highly knowledgeable, responsive, and professional’ team routinely assist foreign multinationals and hotel groups with industrial, commercial, residential and tourism real estate projects. The practice is co-led by a trio of experienced partners: Juan Bernardo Garcia heads up both the Monterrey office and the firm’s global real estate and infrastructure practice group; his primarily transactional practice is firmly focused on real estate, development and construction law. José (Pepe) Larroque leads from Tijuana and handles the structuring of cross-border real estate transactions for the acquisition, development and financing of real estate and infrastructure projects; Guadalajara-based co-head Fabián Monsalve also leads the firm’s North America real estate practice, and specialises in project finance, real estate and M&A. Key senior associates support the partners across the range of matters, namely: Gabriela Saucedo (Monterrey), Roberto Cantu-Dessommes (Chicago), Carlos Maass-Porras (Ciudad Juárez), the ‘knowledgeable and availableJuan Carlos Guerra-Gascon and Alejandra Muriel-Vizcaino (both in Guadalajara); and Atziri Rosado-Ontiveros (Mexico City).

Practice head(s):

Juan Bernardo Garcia; Jose (Pepe) Larroque; Fabián Monsalve


Testimonials

Their proximity to the client makes them unique, and their knowledge and experience in real estate law makes them one of the most skilled in the market.

Juan Carlos Guerra-Gascon is without a doubt one of the most expert real estate lawyers that I have met. He has soft and professional skills that clearly differentiate him from lawyers from other firms.

Fabian Monsalve Alejandra Muriel and Juan Carlos Guerra-Gascon are knowledgeable and available.

Key clients

BIC


Polaris


Best Buy


Transat AT


H&M


Dollar General


Marriott


Murano


AmResorts


Vertex


OMNI Manufacturing


Peiyu Plastics


Work highlights


  • Acted for Polaris Industries on the acquisition and development of its manufacturing campus in Monterrey from FIBRA Terrafina, and provided continued representation for the expansion of said campus.
  • Advising Best Buy in support of its strategy to close operations throughout Mexico, including the termination of over 50 leases for stores, distribution centers and offices throughout the country.
  • Assisted Transat AT with an increase of CAD$228m financing facility granted to it by National Bank of Canada and the Canada Enterprise Emergency Funding Corporation.

Galicia Abogados S.C.

In the words of one client, the team at Galicia Abogados S.C. has an ‘in-depth understanding of the real estate sector that other teams lack’. Lauded by another for its ‘high level of knowledge, professionalism, organization, attention to detail and response times’, the 12-strong group is known for advising FIBRAS, banks, real estate developers and hotel groups on commercial, industrial and residential real estate matters. Land acquisitions, joint ventures, real estate financings and refinancings, leasing and property management, real estate litigation, and environmental and regulatory matters are among its core strengths. Ramiro Sandoval co-heads the practice and routinely advises clients in the hospitality sector on complex real estate transactions; alongside him, Rodrigo Rivera is well-versed in real estate financing and related ESG matters. Key senior associates Roxana Schäfer and Mariana Islas support the partners on transactional real estate matters.

Practice head(s):

Ramiro Sandoval; Rodrigo Rivera


Testimonials

The team has an in-depth understanding of the real estate sector that other teams lack. They are up-to-date on real estate news and offer legal solutions for high-level financial, real estate and corporate transactions.

Customer service and response times are first-class. Additionally, they are strong in complex negotiations. Their human quality stands out – they become a strategic ally for the client.

Galicia Abogados stands out for its extensive experience in the hotel real estate sector and specifically on brand contract negotiation processes. Few groups have this level of experience.

The team stands out for its high level of knowledge, professionalism, organization, attention to detail, response times, and completely bilingual talent.

Ramiro Sandoval and the rest of the team are highly trained and stand out for their level of professionalism. Working with this team, we can be confident that the contract review has been done with the attention to detail it deserves and that the recommendations we are being given come from a place of extensive experience.

Key clients

ABB Group


AT&T


Banco Sabadell


Bancomext


Belmond


Capitel


Cinépolis


FIBRA Macquarie


Fibra SOMA


Grupo Gigante


Grupo MRP


Guess


HSBC


Ideurban


Inditex


LatAm Capital Advisors


Liverpool


JECSA


Marhnos


Mazza Capital


MetLife


Orpea Groupe


Patria Investments


PGIM


Pontegadea


Promecap


Protexa


RLD by BK Partners


Rodina


Santander


Seguros Sura


Scotiabank


Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation


SOMA Group


Soriana


Stack Infrastructure


Tessera Capital


UCB


Vertex Real Estate Investors


Yama


Santamarina y Steta

Praised by one client as a ‘firm that inspires confidence from the first moment’, Santamarina y Steta’s real estate group is routinely instructed by international corporations working in the retail, food, luxury goods, energy and logistics sectors. The ‘highly professional and experienced’ team is well-equipped to handle agrarian and urban development matters, land acquisitions, leases and sales, financings and real estate-related due diligence for industrial, residential, tourist, mixed-use and ejidal properties. At the helm of the practice, Vicente Grau regularly advises clients on the acquisition, leasing, development, construction and sale of real estate properties, and is lauded as a ‘specialist’ who offers ‘efficient and comprehensive solutions’. Partner Claudia Rodríguez assists local and international clients with the structuring, planning and implementation of operations for the acquisition, financing, development, leasing and sale of real estate, with a particular focus on the commercial and industrial sectors. Senior associate Ivan Szymanski is active on compliance and real estate matters, while associate Yakov Kobets majors on the structuring and execution of projects related to the acquisition or sale of assets, as well as related due diligence work. Since the conclusion of research, Szymanski has sleft the firm - effective as of September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Vicente Grau


Testimonials

Large firm with a personal touch. All attorneys are very personable. Great bilingual skills.

Ivan Szymanski has been invaluable in assisting with a very difficult situation which involves unusual complications rarely experienced in ordinary leasing matters. He’s always personable and has excellent follow-up. He involves other attorneys and partners when necessary.

It is a firm that inspires confidence from the first moment. The client service is exemplary.

Vicente Grau and the other partners are specialists with extensive knowledge in various areas of law, which translates into efficient and comprehensive solutions.

The team is highly professional and experienced in real estate and corporate governance matters.

Key clients

Home Depot


Work highlights


  • Assisted Home Depot Mexico wih all legal matters related to the opening of its new store in Polanco in Mexico City.

SMPS Legal

The lawyers of SMPS Legal’s ‘highly coordinated’ team are regularly sought out by developers, creditors and investors for their ‘solid training, experience and ethics’. Areas of expertise include the structuring of real estate projects, purchase, lease and sale agreements, financing, development, construction and related due diligence. The practice is co-led by a trio of partners, comprising: María Teresa Paillés, who specialises in real estate along with associated M&A and financial and credit operations, and brings three decades' experience to the table; Andres Pizarro Suarez, who has focused his practice on matters including complex trusts, escrow operations and real estate trusts; and Eduardo Pizarro Suárez, who stands out for his ‘outstanding knowledge and efficient and practical solutions. Key partner María Esther Rey majors on real estate M&A, loan agreements and project finance structures, as well as guaranty structures for real estate. Senior associate-level support comes from Andrés González (real estate, corporate and finance) and Nadiezhda Vázquez Careaga (corporate law, real estate, and M&A).

Practice head(s):

María Teresa Paillés; Andrés Pizarro Suárez; Eduardo Pizarro Suárez


Testimonials

Detailed knowledge of real estate issues and business. They ensure that the client has all the necessary information to make an informed and conscious decision taking risks into account.

It is a highly coordinated team; the associates are highly involved in matters under the supervision of the partners.

The team stands out for its client service and regular follow-ups. Andrés Pizarro and Eduardo Pizarro are available at all times.

The lawyers have solid training, experience and ethics. The concerns of the client are always of the highest priority.

Eduardo Pizarro stands out for his outstanding knowledge and the efficient and practical solutions he provides.

Key clients

Cimbra Capital


Fortem Capital


Gsebi


Citibanamex


Papaya Project


Work highlights


  • Advised Cimbra Capital on a second phase investment in a project in Tijuana, Mexico.
  • Advised Fortem Capital – who made a second CKD issuance for a total amount of up to $91.5m – with the participation of institutional strategic investors from the Mexican pension system and the private sector.
  • Advised G Sebi on the negotiations for the exit of TC Latam from an investment in a residential project under development in Guadalajara, Jalisco.

TA Trujillo Abogados

Willingness, availability and dedication’ are the calling cards of real estate boutique TA Trujillo Abogados, which is known for its expertise with regard to the structuring of investment vehicles, joint ventures, development matters, and the acquisition and sale of all asset types in Mexico, including industrial premises, retail centres, offices, hotels and residential buildings. Legal due diligence, structured finance, senior, syndicated, recourse, cross-collateralized and non-recourse loans; and trusts, mortgage and pledge securities are additional areas of expertise. Clients – including local and international property developers, FIBRAS and pension funds – roundly praise the 14-strong team for the personalised service it provides. Practice head Alejandro Trujillo, singled out for his ‘impeccable client servicegained substantial in house experience before entering private practice; he specialises in advising clients on joint ventures, the creation of special purpose vehicles, and the acquisition, development, management, leasing and disposition of assets, as well as all types of real estate financing. Monterrey-based partner Alejandra Boj focuses on the drafting and negotiation of purchase and sale, lease, development and property management agreements; Miguel López handles the analysis, structuring, financing and implementation of real estate operations in Mexico. At associate level, key contacts include Marian Garcia, who assists with transactions related to the acquisition and sale of shopping centers and industrial assets; Guillermo Christy, (due diligence, reports on risk assessments, drafting and negotiating master purchase & sale agreements); and Oscar Arroyo, who majors on the structuring of real estate financing and is billed by one client as ‘proactive and always available when you need him, providing sound legal advice’.

Practice head(s):

Alejandro Trujillo


Testimonials

Alejandro Trujillo – impeccable client service.

Quality and availability – the lawyers have a deep knowledge of the industry. They are aware of the legal and commercial needs of their clients.

Oscar Arroyo is proactive and always available when you need him. He provides sound legal advice.

It is a specialist firm with a unique approach as the team members are lawyers who have been both in-house and in private practice and therefore have a better understanding of the needs of their clients. They have extensive real estate knowledge and they give you a much more personalised service compared to other firms.

The members of the team are lawyers with extensive knowledge in various areas. Being a boutique firm, their treatment is much friendlier, providing a more personalised service. They are always available and seek to help their clients in a comprehensive manner.

A very dynamic firm and very flexible in all its practices.

They stand out from their competitors in terms of their willingness, availability and dedication.

Key clients

Actinver


Advance Real Estate


Calzedonia Group


Corporate Properties of the Americas


Consorcio Intercom


Credit Suisse


Los Bravos Grupo Inmobiliario


Fibra Monterrey


Fibra Macquarie


Fibra Terrafina


Finsa


Fortem Capital


Guess?  Inc


Grupo Zapata


Grupo Financiero Monex


Hilco Real Estate


HSBC


KPMG


Macquarie Assets Management


Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets


Meor


Mexico Retail Properties


Newmark Knight Frank


Nexxus


Profuturo


Prudential


ProximityParks


PSP Canada Pension Fund


REI Real Estate


Related Group


Sabadell


Santander


TC Latam Partners


The Plaza Group


Urbanología


Vertical


Vesta


Wafra Capital Partners


Walton Street Capital


Washington State Pension Fund


Werfen


Work highlights


  • Represented Corporate Properties of the Americas in the acquisition of 17 industrial warehouses owned by Hines for approximately $170m.
  • Advised Meor on the acquisition of 150,000 sqm of industrial landbank located in Chihuahua, to develop and stabilize an industrial park consisting of four industrial buildings, through a special purpose vehicle.
  • Acted as outside counsel to TC Latam in connection with the acquisition of a plot of land in Reynosa for the development of an industrial complex of 721,305 square feet.

Cannizzo, Ortiz y Asociados SC

The 14-strong group at Cannizzo, Ortiz y Asociados SC, lauded for the ‘great attention to detail and personalised service’ it offers, is well-equipped to advise on the structuring and implementation of property acquisitions, handling negotiations, sales and all development activities necessary for the completion of real estate projects. The ‘knowledgeable and hardworking’ team is regularly sought out by investment and real estate funds, hospitality and leisure companies, commercial and industrial developers, governmental agencies, institutional lenders and other investors. The practice is co-led by Carlo Cannizo, who specialises in cross-border real estate transactions, as well as infrastructure, construction, finance and M&A; and Mauricio Moreno-Rey, who represents clients from a range of sectors including hospitality, industrial, commercial and residential real estate, and infrastructure. Roberto Canizzo, Marco Cannizzo and Stefano Amato are all active on real estate, corporate and M&A transactions; while Enrique García majors on real estate acquisitions in the tourism and industrial segments, along with real estate structured finance and securitisation and construction deals. Associate Emiliano Quiroz assists with domestic and international transactions involving the financing, acquisition and sale of real estate developments in Mexico, as well as corporate and compliance matters. Associate Alexandra Lefterache left the firm, effective August 2022.

Practice head(s):

Carlo Cannizzo; Roberto Cannizzo; Mauricio Moreno-Rey; Marco Cannizzo; Stefano Amato; Enrique García


Testimonials

The real estate team has extensive experience, particularly with clients in the hospitality industry. They have solid knowledge of complex condominium property regimes and branded residential products. The services provided have always been of the highest quality.

They are very knowledgeable and clearly very hardworking, specialising in all types of real estate transactions. Great attention to detail and personalised service.

CMS Woodhouse Lorente Ludlow

The ‘multidisciplinary and committed’ group at CMS Woodhouse Lorente Ludlow is lauded by one client as providing ‘an unbeatable service’ in real estate matters. The group advises developers, institutional investors, and lenders on all necessary areas of real estate projects, including the purchase and sale of land, assistance with real estate financing, and the efficient administration of real estate portfolios. The ‘attentive, diligent and friendly’ team of lawyers is led by César Armando Lechuga, wo is highlighted for his ‘proactivity, willingness and skill at conflict mediationLechuga’s practice is focused on the purchase and sale of real estate assets of all kinds, as well as the drafting, negotiation and implementation of transfer of rights contracts. Key partner Enrique Lorente Ludlow represents landowners, developers and investment funds on complex lease arrangements, as well as on the sale and purchase of commercial, industrial, residential and corporate properties. At associate level, Luis Mora y Medrano advises on real estate matters related to the energy segment; he is praised for his ‘great knowledge of the sector. Associate María José Estrada Suárez left the practice in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

César Armando Lechuga Perezanta


Testimonials

Luis Mora and César Armando Lechuga have great knowledge of the sector.

The team is multidisciplinary and committed, and provides an unbeatable service; the lawyers connect with the client.

The team is attentive, diligent, friendly and always available. Personalized service – issues are always resolved in a timely manner.

They are always attentive and it shows that there is a lot of communication within their team. The speed of their responses stands out.

The team coordinates very well. In more complex cases, there is always the support of various team members.

They are efficient lawyers, always trying to be available and proactively looking for solutions.

They are fantastic – very focused on the needs of the client.

‘Luis Mora and César Armando Lechuga – proactivity, willingness, skill at conflict mediation.’

Key clients

Hasta Capital


Opera Desarrolladora


Innokap


Grupo Kino


PGIM


Garret Motion


Union Real Estate Investment


Deka Inmobilien


Grupo Indi


Work highlights


  • Advising Innokap on the day-to-day negotiations and preparation of various agreements with regards to the sale of a property of 69,679 sqm located in Playa del Carmen.
  • Assisted Grupo INDI with the acquisition of the controlling interests of an SPV, acting as trustor and first place beneficiary of a Trust Agreement constituted for the construction and development of a housing project in Mexico City.
  • Assisted Opera Desarrolladora with the negotiation and drafting of an amendment agreement in order to structure the acquisition of future investments.

Creel Abogados, SC

The team at Creel Abogados, SC specialises in advising funds, investors, developers, financial institutions and retail groups on the full range of real estate matters, including real estate portfolios, the sale and acquisition of properties, project development, financing, due diligence, investments, lease agreements, and real estate trusts. Gustavo Struck Creel and Alfonso Razú co-lead the practice and both handle corporate and real estate matters. Jorge Torres covers hospitality, retail, industrial and residential real estate projects and is an additional key partner-level contact.

Hogan Lovells

Hogan Lovells houses a ‘technically sound’, eight-strong real estate practice that is known for its expertise in real estate due diligence, the sale and acquisition of real estate, leasing and condominium regimes, construction, litigation, and the operation and management of real estate developments. The ‘outstanding’ team regularly counsels international real estate developers and corporations, and operates under the leadership of a trio of experienced partners: Juan Francisco Torres Landa specialises in project financing, foreign investment and M&A; Ángel Domínguez De Pedro handles M&A and real estate financing and is lauded as having an ‘extraordinary understanding of the law’; and Monterrey-based Guillermo González Frankenberger is experienced in M&A, real estate and corporate governance. Of counsel Fernando Medina Luna majors on civil, commercial, corporate and real estate matters, including ejidos, and claims before PROFECO and local authorities. At associate level, Ana Lucía Gutiérrez Fernández is noted for her contributions on land leases, purchases, real estate portfolio transactions and administrative regulatory matters.

Practice head(s):

Juan Francisco Torres Landa Ruffo; Angel Dominguez de Pedro; Guillermo González Frankenberger


Testimonials

The team is very technically sound, with very good knowledge of their subject. Excellent attitude and client service.

Ángel Domínguez De Pedro – great technical knowledge and client service.

The client service and capacity of the team is outstanding.

Ángel Domínguez De Pedro has an extraordinary understanding of the law and resolves conflicts without complicating things.

Key clients

Administradora y Constructora Costa Palmas FS


Bayer de México


Cirion Technologies México


Consorcio de Obras y Dragados Maritimos


Desarrolladora GJA


Education Index Management


Federal Mogul


Ford Motor Company


Konecranes


Google Operaciones de México


Harman de México


Phoenix Tower International


Richard Paek


The Ford Foundation


Deutsche Lufthansa Aktiengesellschaft


Finsa Portafolios


Ibarra, del Paso y Gallego

Ibarra, del Paso y Gallego’s real estate offering encompasses acquisitions, joint ventures, financings, development, construction, leasing, and the development and operation of hotel facilities (including timeshares), as well as secured financing, the constitution of real estate trusts, and vehicle-structuring for real estate developments. Real estate, tourism and hospitality specialist Carlos Ibarra Fernández co-leads the practice along with Gerardo Gallego, who focuses on multinational and cross-border business and real estate transactions. Of counsel Alejandra Gutiérrez is also noted. Ex-practice co-head Rodrigo de los Ríos left the firm in March 2023.

Pérez Correa González

Described by one client as a ‘solid and reliable team – extremely committed with excellent legal and market knowledge’, the real estate practice at Pérez Correa González is known for its counsel on joint ventures, land acquisitions, project development (for industrial, residential and hospitality projects), financings, and purchase and lease agreements. Domestic and multinational corporations, banks, non-bank financial institutions, investment funds and technology companies regularly feature on its client roster. At the helm of the practice, Luis González handles complex real estate and M&A transactions; González is recommended by one client, who considers him an ‘excellent choice’ for his ‘technical skill and ability to resolve doubts’. Vancouver-based partner Omar Aguilar participates in the structuring and negotiation of joint ventures, as well as designing investment and financial structures for real estate clients. Juan Carlos Izaza is the key associate-level contact, and specialises in corporate, M&A and real estate transactions, as well as the design, drafting and negotiation of commercial agreements. Associate María Fernanda López Lledó left the firm in May 2022; however, associate Eduardo Montenegro joined the firm in September of the same year.

Practice head(s):

Luis González


Testimonials

The lawyers have deep knowledge of the real estate sector, anticipating possible risks and complications. It is a very solid and reliable team – extremely committed with excellent legal and market knowledge.

The firm maintains, at all times, very high standards in communication and attention to detail. They are committed to ethical and socially responsible behaviour.

They are excellent professionals both for their technical skill and their client service.

I would like to highlight Luis González. His technical skill and ability to resolve any doubts that arise make him an excellent choice.

Key clients

Fibra Plus


Rube Alimentos & Gear Alimentos


Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions


Proyectos ATB


BigWhite


Akivinta


Stephens Family


Work highlights


  • Assisted Fibra Plus with  an extensive internal property-level real estate due diligence process with respect to 57 individual properties in Mexico, with a total approximate surface of 600,000 square meters.
  • Advised Rube Alimentos & Gear Alimentos throughout the negotiations and execution of a sale transaction with Agrofibra.
  • Advised BigWhite, Puerto Morelos Aventura and Daxi Family Group on the negotiation and securing of easements, the obtaining of state and municipal permits and several additional matters.

Sánchez Devanny

Praised as ‘client-oriented, offering practical solutionsthe team at Sánchez Devanny has significant expertise in real estate transactions, encompassing the acquisition and lease of industrial and retail properties, purchase and construction agreements, litigation, project finance and real estate matters for private equity funds. The practice is co-led by Rafael Villamar-Ramos (managing partner of the firm since July 2023), who is experienced in industrial, commercial and residential real estate acquisition and leasing transactions, and is lauded for his ‘excellent management skills’; and Diego Gómez-Haro, who majors on the structuring of investment vehicles, the leasing, acquisition and sale of real estate, the development and construction of projects, and related due diligence. Senior associate Alfredo Villarreal Hansmann, highlighted for being ‘always willing to go the extra mile’, specialises in lease agreements, acquisitions, and commercial, hospitality and residential projects.

Practice head(s):

Rafael Villamar-Ramos; Diego Gómez-Haro Katznelson


Testimonials

Efficiency, accountability, always evolving to constantly improve.

Rafael Villamar-Ramos, Alfredo Villarreal Hansmann: Always willing to go the extra mile. Rafa is an excellent conversationalist and has excellent management skills.

It is a client-oriented team that offers practical solutions. It is well-coordinated; its competitive advantage over other firms is the proactivity and speed in the delivery of solutions.

The members of the team have demonstrated a detailed knowledge of the matters relevant to the case, regular responses and follow-up on pending issues.

Key clients

Franke Management


Franke Foodservice Systems México


Cloud HQ


H&M Hennes & Mauritz


COS


Giorgio Armani


Sally Beauty


Autozone


Uline


IKEA


Estée Lauder


Knorr-Bremese


Oetker Gruppe


Basham, Ringe y Correa, S.C.

Basham, Ringe y Correa, S.C.’s real estate team majors on land acquisition and sales, project structuring, negotiations, leasing and financing for clients in the commercial, industrial, tourist, and residential sectors. Since the May 2022 retirement of Daniel Del Rio, the practice is led by a trio of partners: Juan Jose Lopez de Silanes, (real estate, tourism and hospitality); Juan Carlos Serra (joint ventures, M&A, reorganisations); and Jesus Colunga (hospitality transactions, franchise matters and joint ventures). Promoted to partner in October 2022, Gerson Vaca is active on corporate and transactional matters in the sector. Former senior associate Ricardo Evangelista moved in house as legal operations counsel at PepsiCo in May 2022.

Key clients

SPG Group


EFI Automotive


Jabil


Bright Machines


Jabil Circuit de Chihuahua


Jabil Circuit de Mexico


Estapack


NPA de Mexico


Agrosoil de Mexico


R3d Consulting


Gonzalez Calvillo

The six-strong practice at Gonzalez Calvillo garners praise for its client focus and is regularly retained by major international corporations in the food and drink, hospitality and retail sectors (among others), seeking assistance with day-to-day real estate negotiations. The group is also well-equipped to handle the management and operation of real estate portfolios, sale and lease transactions and financing, working on behalf of developers, lenders, investment banks, pension funds and real estate investment funds. Practice head Alfredo Chávez Goyeneche focuses on real estate and project development investment and has experience advising Mexican and multinational companies on all types of corporate transactions involving joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, strategic alliances, lease agreements, project financing, investments, public bids, and regulatory issues in general. Key support comes from senior associates Joaquín Alcalá Cuéllar and Haydeé Montserrat Gonzalez Tavira, who major on both corporate and real estate matters.

Practice head(s):

Alfredo Chavez Goyeneche


Testimonials

Alfredo Chávez Goyeneche and the rest of the real estate team are focused on the needs of the client. Their contributions are always timely.

Great customer service and fast response times. The lawyers adapt to the needs of the client.

The service provided is extremely professional and they carry out the negotiation with real estate buyers in an automatic and practical manner. Communication is clear and practical with the lawyers.

Alfredo Chavez Goyeneche and Haydeé Montserrat González Tavira are very professional lawyers, well prepared and with excellent negotiation skills. The documents provided never have errors and their review is quite agile.’

The attention of the Real Estate Law area of GCSC and in particular of its partner, Mr. Alfredo Chavez, is in accordance with the needs of its clients. Their interventions are always done in a timely manner and they make the company’s leadership feel supported when they require it.

Key clients

Baker Hughes International


Canamex International


DuPont


Inmobilia Management


Inmobiliaria Piso 18


International Workplace Group


KiRE


McDonald’s


Ontex


Reichmann International


UST Global


Work highlights


  • Acted for Kisá Proptech (known as KIRE), in developing a new real estate model business in Mexico based on digital means (“Proptech”).
  • Acted as counsel to Reichmann International for the management and operation of its building portfolio in Mexico City.
  • Advised McDonald’s on the preparation, negotiation, and coordination of the execution of all of its lease transactions in Mexico.

Holland & Knight

The practice group at Holland & Knight LLP specialises in cross-border real estate transactions, advising on the planning, development, financing and construction of real estate projects. It also offers tax structuring and real estate-related capital markets expertise; handles FIBRA and CKD work; and has solid experience of industrial, commercial, retail, residential and hospitality-related real estate projects and issues. Department co-head Guillermo Uribe handles real estate acquisitions, rights and follow-on offers, debt deals and FIBRA-related matters. Alongside him, Adrián Gay Lasa focuses on the IPOs of REITS, as well as construction, funding and investment vehicles designed to fund the development and acquisition of real estate portfolios. Associate Jorge González Carlini is noted for his active participation in real estate financing and corporate matters, and the team was further consolidated in September 2023 with the hire of Glafira Mercado -as senior counsel- from developer Grupo Delta in September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Guillermo Uribe; Adrian Gay Lasa


Key clients

AgroFibra


Fibra UNO


Fibra Inn


Fibra Plus


Fibra Educa


CKD Helios


Fibra Haus


Casa de Bolsa Santander


Grupo Financiero Santander México


Chag Construcciones


Cushman & Wakefield Mexico


Macari & Gongora

Praised as providing an ‘excellent, fast and efficient service’ and based in the Yucatán Peninsula, boutique firm Macari & Gongora assists local and international investors with real estate development and tourism-related transactions, above all those located in Southeastern Mexico. Highlighted by clients for its ‘formidable experience in complex matters and excellent knowledge of the particularities of the market in Southeastern Mexico’, the eight-strong group is directed by Mérida-based Pedro Góngora Urcelay, who specialises in joint ventures, the incorporation of real state trusts, due diligence procedures and the design of complex structures for key real estate projects.

Practice head(s):

Pedro Enrique Góngora; Juan Macari


Testimonials

Excellent, fast and efficient service. Strong commitment to attend to matters from start to finish; involvement of the partners at all stages.

Formidable experience in complex matters and excellent knowledge of the particularities of the market in Southeastern Mexico.

I think they have a very capable and professional team;  moreover, they are very dedicated and do not leave anything unattended.

Pedro Gongora is a very capable person and dedicated to his work, in addition to being very kind and respectful in his manner.’

Key clients

Palace Resorts


Kelman Desarrollos


Desarrollos SIMCA


AEI Group


Grupo Emerita


Empaques NOVA


Agrogen


IMPSA


Chada Agricultura


SUA Desarrollos


Work highlights


  • Advised Palace Resorts on the acquisition of Baglioni Hotels, which consists of a Hotel Chain based in Italy with operations in London, the Maldives and Italy.
  • Advised Kelman Desarrollos on the execution of a joint venture with Promotora del Caribe, by preparing documents and final agreements regarding the contribution of a land worth $30m to facilitate a real estate project.
  • Advised SIMCA Desarrollos on the structuring of a golf club’s operation, acquisition of land, and condominium matters.

Sainz Abogados

The ‘efficient, proactive and diverse’ team at Sainz Abogados specialises in advising property developers, lenders, investment managers, private equity funds, real estate investment trusts and private owners on a range of real estate matters, namely land lease and purchase agreements, joint ventures, and related due diligence work. Daniel Saltzberg heads up the practice, and has over 20 years’ experience assisting developers and private equity funds with the acquisition, development, financing and sale of real estate; partner Manuel Corona is also noted. Senior associate Ximena Hernández, who majors on real estate financings, trusts, and corporate and securities matters, provides key support.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Saltzberg


Testimonials

Daniel Saltzberg is a knowledgeable, experienced and creative professional.

The team works in an extremely efficient way and always responds quickly. The group stands out for the involvement of the partners.

Deep business knowledge; proactive attitude, always focused on practical solutions: speedy analysis; diverse team.

Von Wobeser y Sierra, SC

The practice group at Von Wobeser y Sierra, SC specialises above all in the conversion of ejidos into private property, as well as property acquisition, development, management, leasing, financing and litigation. The 13-strong team is co-directed by Pablo Saez, who has extensive M&A experience and is active on social property and urban development matters; and Alejandro Orellana, who advises domestic and foreign developers, lenders, and investors in connection with real estate-related regulatory issues. Raymundo Soberanis and Ariel Garfio are additional partner-level contacts. The practice was strengthened with the March 2023 hire of Rodrigo de los Ríos, formerly a partner at Ibarra, del Paso y Gallego, as counsel.

Practice head(s):

Pablo Saez; Alejandro Orellana


Key clients

Grupo Modelo


Cervecería Modelo del Centro


Airbnb


Zuffa Deportes Mexico


Orlegi Sports & Entertainment


Work highlights


  • Advised Grupo Modelo on the regularisation of industrial real estate in Mexico City.
  • Advised Orlegi Sports & Entertainment on a real estate asset spin-off.
  • Represented Cervecería Modelo del Centro in litigation related to the acquisition of real estate.