Firms To Watch: Real estate

Real estate specialist Emeline Peltier, who has a particularly notable reputation in complex transactions, is the key name at Aramis.
Jeantet's team is led by Catherine Saint Geniest, who specialises in both construction and real estate. Alexae Fournier- de Faÿ is another name to note.
The team at PDGB continues to grow, following the September 2022 arrival of real estate specialist Julien Wlodarczyk from August Debouzy, whose department handles transactional and financing mandates, as well as property management and related tax issues.

Firms in the Spotlight Real estate

CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES

CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES logo

A FULL-EXPERTISE HUMAN RESOURCES LAW FIRM   Founded in 1987, Chassany Watrelot & Associés (CWA) is one of the main French law firms whose activity is exclusively dedicated to employment law and all other legal areas related to human resources management (insurance law, tax law…).

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Vivien & Associés

Vivien & Associés logo

Vivien & Associés offers competitive legal services and representation across a broad range of key practice areas:

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Real estate in France

Clifford Chance

Noted for their availability and professionalism’, the lawyers at the real estate team at Clifford Chance handle all aspects of real estate work, including real estate investments, acquisitions, sales, leasebacks, financings and restructurings. The group’s workload is spread across all major asset classes, including office, retail, residential and logistics. Clients include asset managers, non-bank financial institutions, professional services firms, REITs and corporations. Alexandre Couturier and François Bonteil co-lead the ‘business-oriented’ team and focus on real estate transactions and financings. David Gérard supports the partners with transactional and property managment mandates.

Practice head(s):

François Bonteil; Alexandre Couturier


Testimonials

‘We appreciate their availability and professionalism. They know their clients’ business and understand the underlying issues. They are facilitators and business-oriented.’

Key clients

AEW


Alderan


Pimco Prime


Arpent Capital


Atream


Ofi Invest Real Estate


AXA IM


BNPP REIM


PineBridge


BlackRock


Bouygues Immobilier


Cale Street Partners


CBRE Investment Management


CDC Investissement Immobilier


CNP Assurances


Colony Investment Management


Covivio


Crédit Suisse Asset Management


Cromwell European REIT


Deutsche Bank


DigitalBridge


DWS


Edmond de Rothschild REIM


Fortress


Gecina


Generali Real Estate


GIC


GLP


Goldman Sachs


HSBC REIM


Ivanhoé Cambridge


Kering


Klépierre


Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen (Helaba)


Maple Knoll Capital


Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investment


Oreima


Partners Group


Patrizia


PGGM


Primonial REIM


Proudreed


Richemont Luxury Group


Schroders


Swiss Life Asset Management


Tikehau Investment Management


Total Energies


Union Investment Real Estate


The Valesco Group


Westbrook


Work highlights


  • Advised Prologis on the EUR 1.585bn acquisition of the Crossbay pan-European urban logistics portfolio.
  • Advised The Valesco Group in relation to the acquisition from Accor of the Sequana office property located in Issy les Moulineaux.
  • Advised Union Investment on the acquisition of an office building in Paris.

De Pardieu Brocas Maffei

Lauded for its ‘skilled’ practitioners and ‘business-focused approach’, the team at De Pardieu Brocas Maffei is a strong choice for a wide range of real estate matters. Key strengths include real estate sales and purchases, financings and the setting up of property funds, as well as development and management mandates. The practice is co-led by Emmanuel Fatôme, who routinely assists real estate companies, investment funds, insurance companies and credit institutions with their real estate needs; and Paul Talbourdet, who handles real estate investment and financing mandates. Pierre Gebarowski, Yannick Le Gall and Katia Belhiteche are additional names to note. Adam Haddad was promoted to partner in September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Emmanuel Fatôme; Paul Talbourdet


Other key lawyers:

Pierre Gebarowski; Yannick Le Gall; Katia Belhiteche


Testimonials

‘The main asset of this team is to offer a very business-focused approach. Before embarking on an operation, they always try to fully understand the client’s issues. This time taken at the start of the case means that they provide extremely relevant analyses and recommendations and lead negotiations for the best interests of the client.’

‘Katia Belhiteche: exceptional speed of execution, precision, an excellent negotiator.’

‘A very skilled team with very experienced partners.’

Key clients

Aareal Bank AG


Accor Invest


Allianz


Altarea


Amundi Immobilier


Apsys


Axa Im


Batipart


Blackstone


Bnp Paribas


Bred


Cale Street Partners Llp


Carrefour / Carmila


Covivio


Credit Agricole Group (Ca Cib, Predica)


Data4 Group


Deka Bank


Emerige


Galimmo


Gecina


In’li


Ing


L’Oreal


Natixis


PGIM


Socfim


Societe Generale


Tishman Speyer


Generali


Posteimmo / La Banque Postale


Wendel


Fairway A.A.R.P.I.

Fairway A.A.R.P.I.‘s ‘close-knit’, ‘attentive’ and ‘business-oriented’ real estate team is well-placed to handle transactional and financing mandates, the structuring of investment funds and the setting up of joint ventures. Four partners share leadership of the group: Aubry D’Argenlieu, described as ‘essential on the market’, focuses on real estate M&A, construction and leasing work; Frédéric Lefébure, lauded as ‘very experienced with excellent knowledge of the market’; financing specialist David Franco; and Franck Denis, who majors on real estate development and transactions for office, logistics, retail, hospitality and residential real estate. Cloé Teisson is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Aubry d’Argenlieu; Frédéric Lefébure; Franck Denis; David Franco


Other key lawyers:

Cloé Teisson


Testimonials

‘A very close-knit team. Lots of availability and listening. A constructive business approach. Real customer service.’

‘A team that is very close to its customers. Very attentive, and, above all, very business-oriented. It’s always a pleasure to work with them. In just a few years, Fairway has undoubtedly become the equal of its competitors.’

‘Fairway is one of the market’s leading real estate investment firms. It brings together all the skills of the real estate industry at a high level with different associate profiles who all have in common an excellent knowledge of the market and its practices, a personalised approach and a concern for the preservation of the business.’

‘Special traits: great professionalism, attentive, accessible and available, a driving force in negotiation. Very good use of collaborative tools to advance a multi-handed mark-up.’

‘Excellent knowledge, responsiveness, availability and commitment of teams; very good coverage of skills and very good negotiators; good ability to find solutions to complex issues/negotiations; good ability to adapt to customer practices; very transparent billing.’

‘Very efficient and available team. Responsiveness, fair invoicing, no impression of overbilling. Business-oriented, talented, incredible network available to clients.’

‘David Franco an excellent finance lawyer, with a very good network that he shares with clients. Aubry d’Argenlieu is essential on the market; he excels in complex issues and delicate situations but can also adapt to support his client on a daily basis. This is a particularly valuable asset in negotiation and in strategic thinking about operations.’

‘Frédéric Lefebure and Cloé Teisson are very experienced, with excellent knowledge of the market and practices. Attentive, responsive and proactive, good ability to persuade the opposing party during negotiations. Excellent communication with customers, and a good ability to adapt. A pleasure to work with this team.’

Key clients

Aldi


Abenex Capital


Acofi


Alantra


Altarea


Ag2R La Mondiale


Anru (Agence Nationale Pour La Renovation Urbaine)


Apsys


Ares Management


Atream


Axa Im Real Assets


Bank of Ireland


Brookfield


Carlyle


Cheyne Capital


Covivio


Daa Capital


Dentresangle Initiatives


Edf Invest


Eternam


Freeport Retail


Friedland Investissements


Generali Real Estate


Groupe Les Etincelles / Altitude Resort Development


Helaba


Hig Capital


Groupe Panhard


Icg (Intermediate Capital Group)


Jc Decaux


Kerdonis


Keys Reim


Korian


La Francaise Am


La Francaise Real Estate Partners


Lokalis


Mata Capital


Mirabaud Asset Management


Nexity


Novaxia


Oxenwood


Perial Asset Management


Pitch Prmotion


Primonial Reim


Psa


Realterm


Remake


Scor


Sienna


Sight Capital


Staycity


Tikehau


Vgp


Vinci


Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.

The team at Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I., which one client considers ‘capable of covering the entire range of services that a real estate player may need’, is frequently instructed by real estate companies, fund managers, financial institutions, insurers and hospitality groups. Sales, acquisitions, leasebacks, financing and development mandates are core areas of expertise. The practice is co-led by Frédéric Nouel, who is lauded for his ‘extensive experience and a unique ability to find solutions’, and majors on transactional and financing mandates. Alongside him, Eric Martin-Impératori is well-versed in planning law, construction law and project financing. Additional key department figures include Renaud Baguenault de PuchesseHugues MoreauChristopher Szostak, Rémi Tabbagh and Laetitia Lemercier.

Practice head(s):

Frédéric Nouel; Eric Martin-Impératori


Other key lawyers:

Renaud Baguenault de Puchesse; Hugues Moreau; Christopher Szostak; Rémi Tabbagh; Laetitia Lemercier


Testimonials

‘Rémi Tabbagh has the ability to understand the business in depth and the implications in credit documentation, with flawless attention to detail.’

‘A very appreciable real estate department – perfect control of files, dynamism and a commitment to our side that is reassuring and reassuring. Flawless availability, including on subjects of secondary importance. Fluid billing, unquestionable.’

‘Team capable of covering the entire range of services that a real estate player may need.’

‘A multidisciplinary team, extremely professional and dynamic, with a very good ability to anticipate and adapt to regulatory changes. Exceptional negotiation assistance.’

‘Frédéric Nouel is a lawyer who excels in his field with extensive experience and a unique ability to find solutions to successfully complete the most complex projects. Frédéric is a brilliant negotiator. He also demonstrates great availability.’

‘Notable for the quality of the work provided; the size and composition of the team makes it possible to distribute the workload and adapt the profiles of employees to the subjects.’

‘A team with highly recognised expertise in real estate law; expertise which is essential to deal with the most complex files. The Gide team knows how to be proactive in order to advance and complete the most complex operations. A team that does not only play an advisory role but a real partner in matters.’

‘Responsiveness in files, strategic vision of complex files and high quality of negotiation and monitoring.’

Key clients

Primonial REIM


Accor


Hammerson


NBIM


Swiss Life Investment Managers


Ivanhoé Cambridge


Brookfield


Joint venture between Brookfield and Experimental Group


BNPP REIM


Allianz Trade


Apsys


AEW


Macquarie Asset Management


CRPN


JP Morgan Asset Management France


Stargime


Arkéa Reim, on behalf of SCI Territoires Avenir


Caisse d’Epargne Ile de France


Arkea


Bred


BNP PARIBAS


Société Générale


First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)


Emirates National Bank of Dubai (ENDB)


Crédit Agricole Corporate Investment Bank (CACIB)


NATIXIS


CIC


BECM (Calypso Project)


Lacourte Raquin Tatar

Clients of the ‘brilliant dealmakers’ at Lacourte Raquin Tatar appreciate the practitioners’ ‘excellent industry understanding’ and ‘ability to deliver innovative solutions’. The bulk of the team’s workload is dedicated to leasing, financing, property acquisition, and sale and real estate development mandates, as well as negotiations and contractual regulations. Jean-Jacques Raquin steers the group and has focused his practice on complex and large-scale investment and disinvestment transactions. Emilie Capron regularly assists property investment funds, listed real estate companies and portfolio management companies with complex real estate transactions. Cyrille Bailly is an additional key contact.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Jacques Raquin


Other key lawyers:

Emilie Capron; Nicolas Jullich; Louise Victoire David


Testimonials

‘The team is very skilled, friendly and available. They have very good legal skills and are always available to resolve difficulties and ensure that projects come to fruition.’

‘Emilie Capron, Nicolas Jullich, Louise Victoire David are a great team; they are all very pleasant and competent. Emilie Capron is particularly innovative in her approaches to moving subjects forward.’

‘Brilliant dealmakers. Inventive and persevering. Innovative and 360° vision capacity.’

‘Expert professionals in their field of expertise with excellent knowledge of the market in which their clients operate.’

‘Jean-Jacques Raquin is noted for his understanding of the issues, competence and availability.’

Very knowledgeable and responsive team. Always available. Very dedicated to get to the best end result for our company. Very pleasant people to work with.’

‘An excellent, highly professional team with an excellent industry understanding and the ability to deliver innovative solutions. Dealmaker approach.’

Key clients

Aermont Capital LLP


Allianz


Altarea


Amundi


Angelo Gordon


ARDIAN


Atland


Arkea Real Estate


AXA IM


Bayern LB


BNP Paribas


CDC Habitat


EDF


Gecina


Groupama Immobilier


Groupe Lagardère


Hines France


Immochan


JP Morgan AM


LaSalle Investment Management


Novaxia


Oxford Properties


Poste Immo


Primonial Reim


SFL


Stellantis


The Student Hotel


Tikehau IM


Tivoli Capital


Tristan Capital Partners


Unibail-Rodamco Westfield


Westbrook


Woodeum


Lafarge


Agence de l’eau Artois Picardie


Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP assists domestic and international clients including investors, private equity, debt, pension funds and banks with the structuring, acquisition, disposal and financing of real estate. Its expertise covers a range of asset classes including retail, office, hospitality and residential. Practice head Jean-Dominique Casalta handles the full scope of real estate transactions, as does key partner Xavier Jancène, while Caroline Delavet brings strength to domestic and international real estate financing. Hector Arroyo joined the group from Baker McKenzie in November 2022.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Dominique Casalta


Other key lawyers:

Xavier Jancène; Caroline Delavet


Testimonials

‘It is a very professional team involved in the search for pragmatic solutions in a working atmosphere that was both friendly and efficient.’

‘Two lawyers particularly stood out: Jean-Dominique Casalta and Corentin Dolivet, who followed our case from start to finish with great self-sacrifice. They were able to hold their own in a long, arduous and complicated negotiation.’

‘Broad and excellent knowledge, rigour, proactivity, responsiveness, availability.’

Key clients

Action Logement


Allianz Real Estate


Apollo Global Management


Atream


ARES Management


AXA REIM


Bain Capital


Barings


Berlin Hyp AG


BNP Paribas Real Estate


Blackrock Capital


CBRE Investment Managers


Celes RE


Cicerone Group


Cheyne Capital


Citi


Clarion Partners


Corestate Capital


Deutsche Bank


DRC Capital


DWS Grundbesitz GmbH (Reef Investment)


Eurosic


GECINA


Generali


Goldman Sachs


Goodman Group


Groupama Immobilier


Groupe IDEC


Ghelamco


H.I.G. Capital Inc.


HSBC


Harbet Management Corporation (HMC)


Icade


ING


Ivanhoé Cambridge – Caisse de Dépôt et de Placement du Québec


Katara Hospitality


King Street


LaSalle Investment Management


National Nederlanden


Nokia


Mubadala


PAREF Group


PFA Pension


Primark


Proudreed


Samsung


Schroders


Selectirente


Sienna Real Estate


Sienna Investments


Société Générale


Sogecap


State General Reserve Fund of Oman


Sunrise Capital


Tristan Capital Partners


TwentyTwo Real Estate


6eme Sens Immobilier


Zurich Insurance


Archers A.A.R.P.I.

Archers A.A.R.P.I. is regularly called upon by financial institutions, debt funds, institutional investors and sovereign funds seeking assistance with real estate matters. The team is equipped to handle acquisition financing for single assets and portfolios and real estate company acquisitions, in addition to transactional mandates such as the acquisition, sale and leasing of real estate assets. A group of four practitioners share leadership: Avi Amsellem, Arnaud MoutetJean-Maurice Gaillard and Paul-Henri De Cabissole.

Practice head(s):

Avi Amsellem; Arnaud Moutet; Jean-Maurice Gaillard; Paul-Henri de Cabissole


Testimonials

‘Very skilled team; it is always available, creative and provides very good advice.’

‘The partners are heavily involved in the files.’

‘Arnaud Moutet is the perfect example of a business partner. He avoids complexities and does not hesitate to propose operational and faster solutions.’

Key clients

Primonial


Invesco


Amundi


BC Partners


Covéa


Colony Capital


Ares Management


Groupama


Weinberg Capital Partners


Union Investment


Altarea


La Française REIM


Aareal Bank


Banque Européenne du Crédit Mutuel


Cheyne Capital


Deutsche Pfandbriefbank (PBB)


Natixis


Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank


CIC – Lyonnaise de Banque


Sociéte Générale


La Banque Postale


BNP Paribas


Black Swan Capital


BC Partners


ARA Asset Management


ETERNAM


Fidelity International


BentallGreenOak


Savills AM


DLA Piper

The ‘available, attentive and proactive’ team at DLA Piper is known for providing assistance with transactional, financing, development and management-related real estate mandates. The practice is directed by the ‘solution-driven’ Myriam Mejdoubi, who is recognised by clients for her involvement in ‘the entire investment cycle, from acquisition to asset management’. Additional names to note include Antoine Mercier; financing specialist Erwan Lacheteau‘future leader in his field’ Gabriel Dalarun, who was appointed to the partnership in May 2023; and Capucine Pelissie, praised for her ‘strong expertise in commercial leases’.

Practice head(s):

Myriam Mejdoubi


Other key lawyers:

Capucine Pelissie; Antoine Mercier; Gabriel Dalarun


Testimonials

‘The team is available, attentive, proactive and very helpful in understanding and resolving commercial issues. It displays a strong ability to evolve in an international context by putting into perspective and explaining the subtleties of the French market.’

‘Myriam Mejdoubi is involved in the entire investment cycle, from acquisition to asset management. Myriam is solution-driven and provides invaluable assistance in framing the negotiations. Capucine Pelissie brings strong expertise in commercial leases.’

‘The DLA Piper real estate team is a reference in the French real estate market. It advises real estate companies, insurance companies, debt and investment funds and credit institutions. It is able to handle all legal issues in the sector: sales and purchase operations, creation of real estate funds, and even real estate financing operations.’

‘Antoine Mercier is a very good lawyer; he advises clients on cross-border portfolio acquisitions, with particular experience in industrial assets. Myriam Mejdoubi is pragmatic and business-oriented, and knows how to combine negotiation skills with an understanding of the issues. She has extensive experience in the acquisition and development of logistics assets, and in real estate development. Gabriel Dalarun is clearly a future leader in his field.’

‘Myriam Mejdoubi’s construction expertise, her thorough knowledge of commercial office leasing, and her skill in negotiating are all top-notch.’

‘Myriam Jejdoubi is a fantastic commercial office lease and construction attorney.  Her work was timely and she was always available.’

Key clients

The Blackstone Group International Partners


The Carlyle Group


Gazeley / GLP


Brookfield/EDYN


Amundi


Aviva


AXA REIM


Harbert Management Corporation


AEW


Harrison street


Patrizia


Oxford Properties


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Bentall Greenoak


Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)


M-Seven


Aeroports de Paris


Boreal / Cadillac Fairview


Valor Real Estate Partners


Fortress Investment Group


Linklaters

Praised as ‘exceptional in all respects, both in terms of legal mastery and negotiation skill’, the team at Linklaters is well-placed to handle real estate matters such as disposal, planning, zoning, development, construction, investment, commercial leases and sales. Françoise Maigrot steers the practice and shines on complex transactions which involve real estate, corporate, regulatory, financial and tax elements. The group’s strong associate ranks include active practitioners Saadoun Alioua, Camille Lapeyre and Marine Hennequin, who ‘stand out from their colleagues for their commitment, availability and their broad expertise’.

Practice head(s):

Françoise Maigrot


Other key lawyers:

Saadoun Alioua; Camille Lapeyre; Marine Hennequin


Testimonials

‘Strong in many aspects: transactions (purchase negotiation, sale, legal due diligence), rental negotiations (commercial leases, amendments), and structuring (creation of vehicles, such as specialised funds, associate agreements and management contracts). The team is exceptional in all respects, both in terms of legal mastery and negotiation skill.’

‘Françoise Maigrot, Saadoun Alioua, Camille Lapeyre and Marine Hennequin stand out from their colleagues for their commitment, availability and their broad expertise. They give the impression that we are a priority customer, which is appreciated.’

‘Very professional, with a keen sense of service. The lawyers really listen to the client and do not hesitate to say if the client is going in the wrong direction. Real advice.’

‘Françoise Maigrot is a very accessible, experienced dealmaker.’

‘A very serious, proactive, available and, above all, very friendly team.’

Key clients

Ardian Real Estate


BAE Systems Pension Funds


Balzac REIM


Bank of America


Barings LLC


BNP Paribas Real Estate Investment Management


CACEIS


CBRE Global Investors


Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate


Credit Suisse


Credit Suisse Asset Management


Digital Realty


DWS Grundbesitz GmbH, Paris Branch


Elevations Partners


Employees Provident Fund


Goodman


HSBC


IGIS


Incus Capital Advisors S.A.


Invesco Real Estate


JP Morgan


JR AMC


King Street Capital Management, LP


Lasalle Investment Management


Mandarin Oriental


National Australia Bank


Neovia Logistics


Northwood Investors


Nuveen Real Estate Management Limited


NW Storm


Octopus


Public Sector Pension Investments


Ramsbury


Round Hill Capital


SEDCO Capital


Shurgard


Smart IM


Sogecap


Swiss Life


Tristan Capital Partners


Verlinvest


Vitura


Zurich Insurance


Work highlights


  • Advised Ardian Real Estate European Fund II (ARREEF II) on the setting up of a joint venture with AOG and Emerige through a special purpose vehicle under the form of an FPS (regulated fund) for the carrying out of a major development at Ile Seguin in Boulogne Billancourt.
  • Acted for Barings in the context of a sale and leaseback relating to four hypermarkets Cora.
  • Advised Crédit Suisse Asset Management and Balzac REIM on the signing of a commercial lease for an office property in the 8th arrondissement of Paris.

LPA-CGR avocats

The team at LPA-CGR avocats is cited for its ‘legal expertise, dedication and reliability’. The group specialises in a range of transactional mandates, including real estate and land acquisitions, leasebacks and sales. Silke Nadolni heads up the practice and majors on transactional, financing and ESG matters, with a particular focus on retail, office and logistics properties. Additional key figures include Sidonie Fraîche-DupeyratHassan JavanshirFlorence Defradas and Julie Weiss. Finance partner Alexae Fournier- de Faÿ left the firm in November 2022.

Practice head(s):

Silke Nadolni


Other key lawyers:

Sidonie Fraîche-Dupeyrat; Hassan Javanshir; Florence Defradas; Julie Weiss


Testimonials

‘LPA enjoys exceptional visibility and reputation on the market, which is easily understood by working with this responsive, rigorous and dedicated team.’

‘Silke Nadolni is both rigorous and a dealmaker, two qualities that are difficult to combine.’

‘Detailed and in-depth knowledge of the real estate sector and in particular, the residential sector; patience and listening to customer needs, quality of arguments, commercial sense and finesse of legal and business analysis.’

‘When it comes to legal expertise, dedication and reliability, there’s no team that surpasses expectations quite like LPA-CGR avocats. What truly differentiates the team at LPA from other firms is their unmistakable personal touch. Every case is treated with the utmost dedication, with the team always making the time and effort to achieve optimal results. In an ever-evolving legal landscape, LPA stands out with its innovative approaches.’

‘In the vast expanse of legal professionals, it’s the unique blend of skill, dedication and character that makes certain individuals truly stand out. At LPA, two such professionals that I’ve had the distinct pleasure of working with are Silke Nadolni and Julie Weiss.’

‘Silke Nadolni exhibits an unmatched diligence, combined with a profound understanding of the intricacies of legal matters. Her meticulous attention to detail, paired with her natural ability to strategise, consistently provides a pathway to success. When working with Silke, one is immediately reassured by her confident demeanour and extensive expertise, qualities that aren’t easily found in the industry.’

‘Julie Weiss brings a refreshing mix of passion and professionalism to the table. Julie’s ability to interpret complex situations and translate them into actionable insights is truly unparalleled. Her empathy towards clients, coupled with her razor-sharp legal acumen, offers a blend of both comfort and confidence in the advice and guidance she offers.’

‘The whole team is outstanding regarding its market knowledge, is well-structured and organised, and is always focused on the needs of its clients.’

Key clients

Aberdeen Standard Investments


ADP


AFD


AG2R La Mondiale


Axa Investment Managers Real Assets


Barings Real Estate


Berlin Hyp


Deka Immobilien


Deutsche Pfandbriefbank Ag (Pbb)


Dws


Edf


Enedis


Ginkgo


Groupama Immobilier


Mata Capital


Nhood


Osae Partners


Primonial Reim


Raiffeisen


Real Is


Societe Generale


Mayer Brown

The team at Mayer Brown is regularly instructed by institutional investors, hotel operators and private equity funds for its real estate expertise. The group has knowledge of a broad range of asset classes and is equipped to handle acquisitions, disposals, joint ventures, sales and leasebacks, in addition to financing and regulatory matters. The practice is jointly led by Alexandre Poupard and hospitality real estate specialist Erwan Heurtel, who is lauded for his ‘fabulous market knowledge’. Additional key team members include Déborah Gelblat and Maud Bischoff.

Practice head(s):

Alexandre Poupard; Erwan Heurtel


Other key lawyers:

Déborah Gelblat; Maud Bischoff


Testimonials

‘Mayer Brown’s real estate team is highly complementary, available and business-focused. It can quickly identify its clients’ needs and provide them with pragmatic, effective advice.’

‘Each member of the real estate team is available, highly professional, efficient and business-oriented. Each of them knows how to anticipate our expectations and needs.’

‘Precision, responsiveness and high quality of service. The team is at the level of the best.’

‘Alexandre Poupard, Déborah Gelblat, Maud Bischoff are excellent professionals, with very good human contact.’

‘The team led by Alexandre Poupart has always been technically strong, especially when it comes to complicated transactions. The team knows how to advise its clients on various aspects such as structuring, shareholder agreements, anti-competition points and corporate law points. In addition, they always demonstrate pragmatism and responsiveness.’

‘An extremely pro-active team that seeks solutions for all problems encountered. Great availability. They listen to the customer and understand the issues.’

‘Erwan Heurtel has fabulous market knowledge and is dedicated to the client – he understands the end goals.’

Key clients

ARA Europe


B&B Hotels


Balzac REIM


BNP Paribas REIM


CNP Assurances


Cromwell Property Group


DeA Capital


Europa Capital


La Française REM


LaSalle Investment Management


Lone Star Funds


Tokoro Capital


Union Bancaire Privée


Westmont Hospitality Group


Work highlights


  • Advised CNP Assurances on the restructuring of Icade Santé, as well as the disposal of CNP Assurances’ minority shareholding interest in the group.
  • Advised La Française REM in connection with the acquisition of Tour Eria, La Défense.
  • Advised B&B Hotels in connection with the acquisition of a portfolio of 9 hotels from the Nehô group.

Ashurst LLP

The ‘young, dynamic, technical and commercial’ team at Ashurst LLP is regularly instructed by funds, banks, sponsors, developers and building contractors seeking assistance with domestic and cross-border real estate transactions. The group has particular strength in financing and transactional mandates involving office, hotel, logistics and retail real estate. The practice is jointly led by Philippe None, lauded as a ‘central figure on the real estate market’; David Noblinski, a specialist in acquisitions, urban planning and the environment; and Eric Fiszelson, who joined from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in February 2023.

Practice head(s):

Philippe None; David Noblinski; Eric Fiszelson


Other key lawyers:

Manon Bucaille; Marianne Sajus


Testimonials

‘Young, dynamic, very technical and commercial team.’

‘David Noblinski and Manon Bucaille form an excellent duo. They are always available, fast, reliable and charismatic. We have complete confidence in them.’

‘High degree of competence, excellent human and listening qualities.’

Key clients

Société Foncière Lyonnaise


Savills IM


Samsung SRA Asset Management


M&G Real Estate


La Française Real Estate Managers (La Française REM)


Oxford Properties Group


Perial Asset Management (Perial AM)


Mr Gérard Brémond’s holding (Pierre et Vacances / Center Parc)


Work highlights


  • Advised Oxford Properties Group on the acquisition of the 21,000 sqm Biocitech real estate complex in Romainville.
  • Advised M&G Real Estate on its exclusive talks with the Caisse de Retraite du Personnel Navigant (CRPN) to sell an office in Paris.
  • Advised foreign investors on the restructuring of two of their Paris properties.

August Debouzy

The practice at August Debouzy is equipped to handle a range of real estate matters, including real estate investment and financing, regulatory work and litigation. Its expertise covers all asset classes, including hospitality, office, retail and residential. Real estate and construction specialist Guillaume Aubatier steers the department; his practice has a focus on financing and leasing transactions. Additional key names to note include transactional specialist Antonia Raccat, who joined the group in February 2023.

Practice head(s):

Guillaume Aubatier


Other key lawyers:

Antonia Raccat


Key clients

Union Investment


Axa Investment


City Star


Convera


Ecureuil-Vie


Darphin


Esprit


Immobiliare


Mileway


Tikehau


Ikory


Meridiam


Aerium


Aermont


AEW


Aire Nouvelle


Aquilia


Amundi


Antirion


Allianz


Bacardi


Beaumont Capital


Cegereal


Crossbay


Fendi


EDF REIM


Epopée Gestion


Generali


GreenOak


HIG


ID Gazeley


KKR


Norges


Northwood


OMMAM


Pimco


Prologis


Sogelym Dixence


STAM


MERIDIAM


Envision AESC


CNP Assurances


La française Real Estate Partners


M&G Real Estate


Segro Plc


WeWork


Deka Immobilien GmbH


Diderot Real-Estate


Novaxia


Banque Pictet


Inmark


Scaprim


Accuracy


Constructa Asset Management


Ingka Investment


Ikea


Clemium Real Estate


Hugo Boss


6ème Sens Immobilier


Paref Asset Management


Paris Society


Estée Lauder


Colliers Global Investor


EDF-ENR


Infarm


Hermès


ERM Environnement


Foncière du 8


France Gallop


La Plateforme Campus


Primonial


Volta Charging


Volta Truck


Ynsect


SARP (groupe Véolia)


Fondation Robert de Sorbon


Sostrene Grene


Aegide Domitys


Total


Lafarge


Gilson


Nike


Altarea-Cogedim


Unibail-Rodamco


Burberry


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Apsys


Work highlights


  • Advised Ingka Centres (the investment arm of IKEA) on a complex triple acquisition.
  • Advised Envision AESC on the negotiation and execution of a complex EPC contract for the construction of a 9 GWH electric battery factory plant with a consortium composed of Vinci and Equans.
  • Represented La Nef Lumière in a high-profile dispute with its main tenant, EuropaCorp, regarding La Cité du Cinéma, a real estate complex located in Saint-Denis.

Baker McKenzie

The real estate group at Baker McKenzie is regularly instructed by institutional and private equity investors, banks, REITS and corporations for its expertise in the purchase, leasing and sale of real estate assets, as well as their financing and development. The team is particularly well-versed in transactions involving hotel, retail and office properties, as well as tax and VAT issues relating to real estate. Practice head Marc Mariani, lauded as ‘responsive and always attentive’, covers the range of real estate issues. He is supported by key contacts Hervé Jégou and Maria Batlouni.

Practice head(s):

Marc Mariani


Other key lawyers:

Hervé Jégou; Maria Batlouni


Testimonials

‘Marc Mariani – expert, very available, responsive and always attentive. Xavier Salvatore – available, good advice, responsive.

Key clients

AEW


BNP Paribas REIM


CDC Investissement Immobilier


Generali Real Estate


Invesco


Kering Group


King Street


LaSalle Investment Management


Lidl


NH Investment


Poste Immo


Scaprim


Société Foncière Lyonnaise (SFL)


SOGECAP


ORPEA


Groupama Gan REIM


WP Carey


Swiss Life


Work highlights


  • Advised a real estate fund managed by BNP Paribas REIM France in the structuring, and creation of a joint venture company with AG2R La Mondiale for the acquisition of residential assets in France and the negotiation of the shareholders agreement and management agreements.
  • Advised CDC Investissement Immobilier on the acquisition on behalf of Caisse des Dépôts of 50% of the Easy building located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris.
  • Assisted the Olayan Group with the acquisition of a minority stake of a joint-venture company, structuring and negotiation of the shareholder agreement, in the context of the acquisition of the building located on 150 avenue Champs Elysées in Paris.

BG2V

The ‘united, responsive and efficient’ team at BG2V is well-placed to handle the sale and purchase of real estate portfolios, as well as leases, financing and development. Praised by one client for his ‘great knowledge of the market’, Quentin Leroux steers the ‘multidisciplinary’ practice and majors on asset management, in addition to development and finance transactions, ordinarily acting on the borrower’s side. The ‘competent, attentive and pleasant’ Woody Guirand is an additional key department figure.

Practice head(s):

Quentin Leroux


Other key lawyers:

Woody Guirand


Testimonials

‘Quentin Leroux is a real dealmaker as well as an excellent legal adviser. He is pragmatic and understands immediately the client’s needs.’

‘A human-sized, multidisciplinary and competent firm.’

‘Quentin Leroux is an excellent real estate lawyer. He is a good negotiator and seeks the best arrangements for his clients.’

‘The team is united, responsive and very efficient – it is pragmatic and looks for solutions.’

‘Quentin Leroux stands out. His calm, his great knowledge of the market, his capacity for work and analysis make him a very precise and valuable ally for all major real estate projects. ’

‘Woody Guirand is competent, attentive and pleasant.’

Key clients

AEW


Alios


Allianz Immovalor


Altarea


Aviva Investors


Axtom Groupe


Ba&sh


Bouygues Immobilier


Bowery Europe


Bleu Mercure


BPIFRANCE


Caryatid


CAVP (Caisse d’Assurance Vieillesse des Pharmaciens)


CBRE Investment Management


CDC (Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations)


Colas


Colliers


Constructa


DWS


DTZ Investors


Epopée Gestion


Etam


Exane


Gecina


GDG Investissements


Google


Groupe Duval


HEC Business School


Herno


ICAM School


Impala


JLL (Jones Lang Lasalle)


Kareg


Klépierre


Liberty Real Estate


Linkcity


Logicor (Blackstone / CIC)


Logistics Capital Partners


Montea


Mountpark Properties


Nephos Property Management


Novaxia


Nuveen


Perial


Pepsico


Predica


Scaprim


Schroders


Science Po


Sofidy


Sogecap


Soremi


Spirit


Vailog


Virtuo Industrial Property


Work highlights


  • Advised Allianz Immovalor on the acquisition of the Kappa office building, Docks de Saint-Ouen district, from La Française Real Estate Managers.
  • Advised Logicor on the conclusion of commercial lease with a leading European provider of toys and children’s entertainment relating to a warehouse in Houplines.
  • Advised Liberty Management on the acquisition of the Mazagran building in Paris.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

The ‘complete, skilled, responsive and always available’ team at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner garners praise from clients for its skill in real estate matters. The acquisition and disposal of real estate portfolios, financings and leasings, in addition to commercial property disputes, are core areas of expertise. Practice head Henry Ranchon has experience in transactions across the residential, office, healthcare and industrial asset classes. Additional key partners include Pierre Popesco, Laurent Schittenhelm and urban planning and development specialist Anne Richier.

Practice head(s):

Henry Ranchon


Other key lawyers:

Laurent Schittenhelm; Christine Daric; Anne Richier; Pierre Popesco


Testimonials

‘Anne Richier has my complete confidence. On several files her role was decisive in the development of the project. Her analyses and advice are relevant and clearly presented both in writing and orally.’

‘Available, efficient and always up-to-date with the latest tax provisions. Christine Daric is an exceptional talent – committed, efficient and available.’

‘Complete, skilled, responsive and always available team. Very good long-term support. This team is a partner of choice.’

Key clients

Aspelin Ramm


Pegase Partners


Immovalor Gestion


Axa


Eiffage Concarneau


Cheyne Capital


Aerium


Compagnie Financière de Choiseul


ANFA


Migros Neovitam


Edgar Suites


Infopro Digital


Black Swan Real Estate


Mimco Asset Management


Tristan Capital Partners


Pestana Group


Franklin

The ‘professional and attentive’ real estate practice at Franklin handles real estate asset acquisitions and leases, construction and development, in addition to real estate financings, restructurings and fund formation. Practice head François Verdot specialises in leasing mandates, while Jérémy Goldblum handles all manner of commercial real estate disputes. November 2022 saw the arrival of hospitality real estate specialists Philippe Riglet and Géraldine Machinet, along with six associates, from CMS Francis Lefebvre.

Practice head(s):

François Verdot


Other key lawyers:

Philippe Riglet; Géraldine Machinet; Jérémy Goldblum


Testimonials

‘Philippe Riglet and Géraldine Machinet bring skill and strength in negotiation.’

‘A very professional and attentive team. Wise advice and careful follow-up of files.’

‘Jérémy Goldblum is an excellent professional and always available.’

Key clients

AEW Europe


Allianz Real Estate


Alsei


Belambra Clubs


Conforama


Covivio


Danone


Gecina


Groupama Immobilier


Groupe Duval


Groupe Galeries Lafayette


GSE


Kuehne + Nagel


Mapletree


Mata Capital


Nexity


Panattoni


Pichet


Pierre & Vacances


Pro Distribution


Prologis


Renault


Schroders


Village Nature Tourisme


Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

The ‘extremely specialised and committed’ team at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is equipped to oversee real estate acquisitions, transfers, leases and sales, in addition to urban planning, property development and financing mandates. The practice is directed by market reference’ David Lacaze, who majors on real estate finance, real estate investment funds and real estate restructuring. Additional key figures include Anne Petitjean, who brings strength to off-plan matters; and Isabelle Augais.

Practice head(s):

David Lacaze


Other key lawyers:

Anne Petitjean; Isabelle Augais


Testimonials

‘Anne Petitjean is fast, efficient, and a very good negotiator who always tries to find solutions.’

‘A very competent and committed team.’

‘We recommend David Lacaze, for his ability to manage complex files, and Isabelle Augais for her ability to negotiate in our best interests. When it comes to real estate asset management contracts, they are simply the best on the market.’

Key clients

Tikehau Investment Management


Générale Continentale Investissement


Société Générale


Idemia


MIMCO Asset Management


Willis Tower Watson France


Nuveen


Biocodex


abrdn


Extendam


Brookfield (Uxco Group)


Euryale Asset Management


Work highlights


  • Advised Générale Continentale Investissement on the sale of a property complex in the 16th arrondissement of Paris.
  • Advising Tikehau Investment Management on its acquisition of the Hotel California, a four-star hotel in Paris, from DigitalBridge.
  • Advised Société Générale Group on the sale of the Crédit du Nord headquarters in Lille to Keys REIM.

Jones Day

Singled for its ‘excellent knowledge of the field, responsiveness and pragmatism’, the team at Jones Day takes care of real estate matters such as the acquisition, leasing and sale of assets, property development and financing, plus related tax structuring and litigation. Practice head Erwan Le Douce-Bercot has both advisory and contentious real estate credentials. Flavia Poujade and Solène Maulard also receive client praise. Carine Mou Si Yan joined the practice in December 2023 from Orrick.

Practice head(s):

Erwan Le Douce-Bercot


Other key lawyers:

Flavia Poujade; Solène Maulard


Testimonials

‘Availability, rigour, good reasoning, strong negotiation skills.’

‘The team is attentive, responsive and produces quality work. The lawyers know how to be innovative in many aspects. This is one of the best teams we have ever worked with.’

‘Erwan le Douce-Bercot is recommended for his listening skills, his responsiveness and his commercial sense. Flavia Poujade and Solène Maulard are also quality lawyers, notably due to their technical skills and commercial sense. ’

‘Fully qualified in real estate law. Always strong on varied issues (advice and litigation).’

‘Erwan le Douce-Bercot perfectly manages the various subjects that we entrust to him: due diligence, drafting and negotiations of leases, drafting and negotiations of clauses in deeds, vendor due diligence and SPA negotiations for a portfolio sale, in addition to litigation.’

‘Excellent knowledge of the field, excellent responsiveness and pragmatism.’

The team knows our industry perfectly and is very technical, thoughtful and rational. They also have the ability to think outside the box. Great availability.’

‘Erwan Le Douce-Bercot brings perspective and the ability to reassure and enlighten. Solène Maulard is very technical, and gets to the bottom of things.’

Key clients

AGC Equity Partners


Casino Guichard Perrachon


Catalyst Capital


Crossbay France


Framatome SAS


Goldman Sachs


Heart of La Défense (subsidiary of a consortium led by Amundi)


La Française


MARK Capital Management Limited


Présidence de la République du Togo


Amundi


Sanofi


Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc.


TotalEnergies SE


Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield


Work highlights


  • Advised MARK on the €1.585bn sale to Prologis of its pan-European investment fund dedicated to last-mile logistics assets.
  • Advised Greystar on its first French real estate acquisition: the acquisition of a student residence in a future state of completion located in Ivry.
  • Advised Unibail Rodamco Westfield on the negotiation and drafting of several leases related to the commercialisation of the brand new Trinity building in La Défense tower.

Racine

Racine is active on advisory, transactional and contentious real estate matters across a range of asset classes. Areas of expertise include real estate development, financing, sales, acquisitions, leases and related litigation. The practice is jointly led by Nicolas Boytchev, who majors on commercial leases, construction and real estate management; construction specialist Jean-Philippe Lorizon; and real estate all-rounder Nelson Segundo. Philippe Jonston and Théo Faugeras are additional names to note.

Practice head(s):

Nicolas Boytchev; Jean-Philippe Lorizon; Nelson Segundo


Other key lawyers:

Philippe Johnston; Théo Faugeras


Testimonials

‘A team dedicated to real estate: efficient, complementary and available to the client. An educator in approaching legal issues and force of proposals in order to enable the client to secure their acquisition project or their litigation file.’

‘Nicolas Boytchev is an excellent lawyer and knows his sector (real estate) well. A great pleasure to work opposite him.’

‘The strength of the team in charge of the real estate department is obviously its perfect knowledge of the applicable law in this area but also of related areas also covered by the firm. The teams know how to work in synergy perfectly, which is greatly appreciated.’

‘Within the team, Nicolas Boytchev, Philippe Johnston and Théo Faugeras particularly stand out. One point that distinguishes the team from its peers is the fact that the files are perfectly followed without distinction of seniority.’

‘The Racine team is very efficient. Always available. Very responsive. And showing inventiveness in order to find solutions. They are deal makers.’

‘Nicola Boytchev is constructive. Having a very good knowledge of law, he also has human qualities which clearly distinguish him from his peers.’

Key clients

Paco Rabanne


Inetum


Foncière Magellan


Paradis Groupe


Fondation Bettencourt Schueller


360 Capital Partners


Epopée Gestion


Groupe NW


Puig


Primonial


Nexity


Galimmo


La Française AM


Montblanc


Sofidy


Mediawan


Arkea (Crédit Mutuel)


Maison Alaïa


Tristan Capital Partners


STE – Société de la Tour Eiffel


Chloé


Groupe Up


Dunhill


Panerai


Adeo


IWC


Delvaux


L’Artisan Parfumeur


Work highlights


  • Advised Vinci Immobilier on the construction of its new headquarters in Nanterre, in the Île-de-France region, involving handling the relations between third parties affected by the work and the construction company.
  • Assisted Generali with the sale of the Passy Plaza, a shopping centre in Paris, to AEW Patrimoine, one of the largest international real estate investment managers.
  • Assisted Cora in a sale and leaseback transaction pertaining to four major Cora supermarkets.

sbkg & Associés

Boutique firm sbkg & Associés handles the acquisition and disposal of real estate assets, as well as real estate investment, development and management mandates. The practice is co-led by transactional specialist Vincent Lassalle and Carol Santoni, who majors on real estate investment matters and is noted for her ‘reactivity, availability and flexibility’. Additional key names to note include Bérengère Delsol and Louise Duvernois.

Practice head(s):

Vincent Lassalle; Carol Santoni


Other key lawyers:

Louise Duvernois; Bérengère Delsol; Gwénolé Morineaux


Testimonials

‘A very technically advanced team capable of demonstrating pragmatism.’

‘Louise Duvernois is a very good technician who knows how to demonstrate pragmatism.’

‘The SBKG team knows how to be proactive and persuasive. It demonstrates great efficiency and flawless responsiveness. Their support is naturally very competitive compared to competing teams. In my opinion, SBKG stands out for its innovation in the legal articulation of contracts.’

Key clients

Kanam Grund


Anacap Financial Partners


Covivio


Pramena Investment


Crédit Agricole


Stam Europe


Mediawan


Izivia


Ag2r la Mondiale


Real I.S


Eurazeo


Black Swan Real Estate Capital


Hlog / Foncière Herrmann


P3 Parks


Tristan Capital Partners


Swiss Life Asset Managers France


Relx


Mosaic Investissement


Absolute Secured Debt


Kerdonis


AM alpha


Work highlights


  • Advised Covivio on the setting up and finalisation of the agreements to be concluded with a view to the lease by LVMH of a building located in Paris’ 8th arrondissement.
  • Advised Real I.S. Group, BayernLB’s fund service provider specialising in real estate investments, in the acquisition of a factory, office and retail building in Lyon.
  • Advised AM alpha on the acquisition of a 1,100 m² office building located in Paris’ 7th arrondissement from Edmond de Rothschild Real Estate Investment Management (REIM).

White & Case LLP

The group at White & Case LLP handles the acquisition, development, financing and sale of real estate, and has additional expertise in commercial leasing. Global investment and insurance funds, as well as asset managers and corporations, routinely feature on the practice’s client roster. The team is jointly led by transactional specialist Franck Peter and Brice Engel, who has experience overseeing the sale and acquisition of portfolio properties in France and elsewhere in Europe.

Practice head(s):

Franck Peter; Brice Engel


Testimonials

‘Franck Peter – excellent lawyer, excellent negotiator, immediately grasps the client’s expectations and needs.’

Key clients

Icade Santé, Predica, Sogecap and Cardif


Financière Colisée


Foncière INEA


Foncière Raynouard


GIC


La Française


L’Oréal


Oaktree Capital Management


Prédica


Marriott International


Mark


SCI EM Lyon 2022


Société Générale Insurance (formerly Sogecap)


Sogecap


THOM Group


Vinci Immobilier


York Capital Management


Work highlights


  • Assisted Freo and Cheyne Capital with the acquisition of the real estate group Confiance.
  • Assisted Icade and its minority shareholders with the sale of its stake in Icade Santé to European real estate asset management platform Primonial REIM.
  • Assisted AEW and a consortium of investors with the sale of the CB3 building located in La Défense.

CMS Francis Lefebvre

Key strengths of the real estate practice at CMS Francis Lefebvre include the structuring of investments, development work, acquisition and divestment. Investors, insurers, developers and corporations regularly feature on the group’s client roster. The practice is jointly led by Benjamin BillFlorence Chérel, Aline Divo and Céline Cloché-Dubois, following the departure of Philippe Riglet and Géraldine Machinet in November 2022.

Practice head(s):

Benjamin Bill; Florence Chérel; Aline Divo; Céline Cloché-Dubois


Other key lawyers:

Arnaud Valverde


Testimonials

It is an essential team on the market. Aline Divo is exceptional in terms of skill and kindness.’

‘A well-structured firm with expert specialists. Well-monitored employees with sufficient numbers to respond to emergencies.’

‘Extensive real estate team allowing it to handle a large quantity of documents that need to be worked on. Aline Divo is an excellent professional.’

‘The team is responsive and offers innovative solutions.’

‘ A firm with a mastery of legal solutions to provide to the client. Precise analysis of files.’

‘Arnaud Valverde was available throughout the case and very responsive during our discussions. His legal analysis is a real asset. We highly recommend his services.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas


Deka Immobilien GmbH


Union Investment GmbH


Carlyle


Sienna Real Estate


Segro


Pimco (Allianz Real Estate)


LVMH Group


Franklin Templeton


Société Générale


AXA Real Estate


Ivanhoe Cambridge


UBS Real Estate


NewCold


Penta


CBRE Investment Management


Arcade Group


Work highlights


  • Assisted BNP REIM with the acquisition of two retail parks (‘Enox’ in Gennevilliers and ‘Mon Beau Buchelay’ located in the Paris region).
  • Assisted Union Investment with an off-plan acquisition of a mixed use building located in Lyon.
  • Assisted Penta with its entry into the market involving the acquisition of a data centre facility located in the Paris region.

Dechert LLP

The practice at Dechert LLP specialises in commercial real estate financing and refinancing transactions and is regularly sought out by investment banks, lenders, corporate borrowers and funds for this purpose. The ‘responsive, dynamic and efficient’ team is also equipped to handle pan-European financing mandates, working in conjunction with its peers based in other European jurisdictions. Department lead Privat Vigand boasts an ‘in-depth knowledge of the real and corporate asset acquisition financing market’.

Practice head(s):

Privat Vigand


Testimonials

‘Privat Vigand brings great experience. Pragmatism. A solution provider.’

‘ A responsive, dynamic, efficient team. Pragmatic, excellent relational and writing skills. In-depth knowledge of the real and corporate asset acquisition financing market.’

‘Ability to work and find innovative solutions within the framework of complex structuring.’

‘I had the opportunity to work with Privat Vigand. Beyond his always pleasant relationships, he is a great professional with a lot of technique. He remains available and happily answers questions, clearly and precisely.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas


Crédit Agricole CIB


ING Bank


Natixis


Work highlights


  • Advised a consortium of banks on the restructuring of the existing financing in the context of the acquisition of Sequana Tower, Accor’s headquarters, by British fund Valesco.
  • Advised Crédit Agricole CIB on the financing of a portfolio of student residences.

Dentons

‘Responsiveness, skill and tenacity’ are the calling cards of the team at Dentons, who are active on a range of real estate investment transactions including acquisitions, disposals, sales and leasebacks. Development work, property management and litigation are additional core skills. Property investment specialist Pascal Schmitz heads up the group, which is also home to key figures Véronique Lagarde and Maxime Simonnet. Audrey Arnaut-Lacombe and Charlotte Rossi support the partners across the gamut of matters and also garner client praise.

Practice head(s):

Pascal Schmitz


Other key lawyers:

Véronique Lagarde; Maxime Simonnet; Audrey Arnaut-Lacombe; Charlotte Rossi


Testimonials

‘I had a very good experience with Dentons working with Véronique Lagarde and her team. I appreciate Véronique’s responsiveness and her support on my often complex files.’

‘Team members able to multitask and be innovative when challenges are presented.’

‘Can’t say enough positive things about Veronique Lagarde. She is excellent as a team leader and very responsive. Capable of being a puzzle solver along with having great legal abilities.’

‘Responsiveness, skill, tenacity.’

‘Maxime Simonnet, Audrey Arnaut-Lacombe and Charlotte Rossi – excellent knowledge of their subjects, fine negotiators and integrating the particularities of their clients in the handling of files.’

Key clients

Business & Management


Paref Gestion


The Row


Star Hotels


Trammell Crow


Brookfield Asset Management


Sedco


BASF France


Gecina


Phoenix Tower International


BIC


Groupama Gan REIM


Indigo


Marathon Asset Management (MAM)


MG Real Estate


Oreima


P3 Logistic Parks


Redevco France


Scannell


Grand Case Beach Club SAS


Vectura Immobilier


Work highlights


  • Advised Phoenix Tower International on the acquisition of a portfolio of 50 assets in the French West Indies in a build-to-suit program and on a major pan-European project of land acquisition in France, Ireland, Italy and Cyprus.
  • Advised Business & Management on the acquisition of Exelmans hotel in Paris by a JV formed by three investors: Banque Populaire, Business & Management and Groupe Arcange. The transaction was done via the acquisition of shares of the owner company.
  • Advised Scannell Properties on the development of an urban logistics center near Paris (Conflans Ste Honorine).

Eversheds Sutherland (France) LLP

The practice at Eversheds Sutherland (France) LLP is well-versed in the acquisition, leasing and sale of real estate assets, in addition to project development and land planning mandates, contract drafting and permits work. The group is jointly led by Christophe Sciot-Siegrist, who specialises in the negotiation of commercial lease agreements and the drafting of construction contracts; and real estate all-rounders Patrick Gerry and Eric Métais.

Practice head(s):

Christophe Sciot-Siegrist; Patrick Gerry; Eric Métais


Other key lawyers:

Anaïs Al Nasser


Testimonials

‘This team is the best in Paris for the corporate real estate sector, especially with logistics.’

‘Patrick Gerry and Christophe Sciot-Siegrist are experienced lawyers with very specialised skills.’

‘They know how to handle requests urgently and are precise in their feedback.’

‘Anaïs Al Nasser is very attentive to issues and is very present for emergency management.’

Key clients

American Express GBT


DXC Technology Services


Microsoft


Decathlon


CyrusOne


Urban Outfitters


M3 Group Holding


Alcatel Submarine Networks


EQT-Exeter


P3 Parks


DWS


Real Term


Patrizia


Trammell Crow Corporation


Orrick

Orrick is equipped to handle real estate development and financing mandates, in addition to property acquisition and related disputes. Key department figures include Patrick Tardivy, Olivier JouffroyJessie Gaston and Geoffroy Berthon. Paul Loisel, previously at White & Case LLP, joined the firm in June 2023 and adds expertise in the structuring and financing of energy and real estate projects. Ex-practice co-head Carine Mou Si Yan left the firm in December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Patrick Tardivy; Olivier Jouffroy; Jessie Gaston; Geoffroy Berthon


Key clients

3i European Operational Projects Fund (3i EOPF)


3i Group Plc


Alcentra Limited


Alliages et Territoires


Allianz Global Investors


Almaviva Capital


Antin Infrastructure Partners


AXA Investment Managers – Real Assets


BPCE


Château La Coste


CDC-CDC Habitat-Icade Promotion


Equinix Hyperscale 1 Holdings BV


Fayat


Fidera Limited


Island Global Yachting


LBO France


Société Générale


Work highlights


  • Advised AXA IM Alts on the acquisition from Nexity of a 12 hectare site in Bry-sur-Marne and Villiers-sur-Marne, home to a film and TV recording complex.
  • Advised the winning consortium led by Fayat and Island Global Yachting on the tender process for the €635m 30-year concession contract to renovate and operate the maritime real estate at Vieux Port de Cannes.
  • Advised Icade Promotion, Caisse des Dépôts (Banque des Territoires), and CDC Habitat on the consultation launched by Solideo (the Olympic Works Delivery Company) for the financing and development of Block D of the Olympic Village for the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris.

Paul Hastings LLP

The team at Paul Hastings LLP regularly assists real estate investment funds, local and international developers and institutional investors with transactional matters such as leases and sales, in addition to real estate financing mandates. The group is ably directed by Jean-Louis Martin, who is particularly well-versed in transactional matters involving commercial, hospitality and logistics real estate assets. Key contact Quentin Jobard majors on the acquisitions of real estate, financing and the creation of joint ventures.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Louis Martin


Other key lawyers:

Quentin Jobard


Testimonials

‘Jean-Louis Martin is an experienced and very agile lawyer.’

Key clients

Abercrombie & Fitch


Bank of America Merrill Lynch


CDC


citizenM


CNP


Dell


Eurazeo


Fortress


FREO


GA Smart Building


Hardstone


Highgate


Hollister


Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)


JPMorgan


La Française AM


Powerhouse Habitat


SAP


Scaprim


Swiss Life Asset Managers


Tishman Speyer


Virtuo Industrial Property


Work highlights


  • Advised La Française REM in connection with the share deal acquisition of a portfolio of 38 Grand Frais stores located in France from Abénex for a property value of c. €190m.
  • Advised Virtuo Industrial Property on the creation of a strategic partnership between Virtuo Industrial Property and Axa Investment Managers Alts to develop a portfolio of logistics assets located in France.
  • Advised 3M in connection with the sale and leaseback of a logistics and distribution asset located in Saint-Ouen-l’Aumône to Boreal.

Simmons & Simmons

The group at Simmons & Simmons handles real estate financing, sales and aquisitions. Practice co-head Elisa Bocianowski's expertise covers transactional real estate matters and has a particular focus on commercial lease mandates. Alongside her, Céline Larmet majors on real estate finance and has experience advising lenders and borrowers on local and cross-border lending transactions and debt restructurings. Chloë Nessim and Louis Delestrée are additional key contacts.

Practice head(s):

Elisa Bocianowski; Céline Larmet


Other key lawyers:

Chloë Nessim; Louis Delestrée


Testimonials

‘Responsiveness and professionalism.’

‘Excellent in negotiation, very good support on business points. Always on time. Total transparency on invoicing, deadlines and potential conflicts.’

‘Responsive, efficient and experienced team. Elisa Bocianowski is excellent technician, and is always very up-to-date and infallible on doctrine. Louis Delestrée is a deal facilitator with a large capacity for any urgent work.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas REIM


Groupama Immobilier


Valor Real Estate Partners


Colony Capital


Global Net Lease


Société de Développement Axe Nord


Allianz Real Estate


Champagne Hospitality


Savills Investment Management


Perial


DRC Capital


Ronan Group


MPUR/Stepling


Caisse d’Epargne Normandie


Goldman Sachs


Brookfield


Work highlights


  • Advised Groupama Immobilier on the sale of a historic office building located at 150 Avenue des Champs-Elysées to equity firm Cheval Paris.
  • Advised Brookfield on the acquisition and financing of a large portfolio of data centers in Europe.
  • Advised Goldman Sachs on the implementation of a real estate financing provided to Edyn for the acquisition and redevelopment of a boutique hotel in Paris.

Watson Farley & Williams LLP

The team at Watson Farley & Williams LLP is called upon by investors, developers, lenders, landlords, tenants and borrowers for its real estate expertise. The group is equipped to handle both transactional and advisory mandates, and has particular experience in the financing and refinancing of office, retail, hospitality, logistics and healthcare real estate. Financing specialist Cyrille Gogny-Goubert steers the practice.

Practice head(s):

Cyrille Gogny-Goubert


Testimonials

‘Availability, responsiveness and kindness. Very innovative team and always looking for solutions.’

Key clients

Phoenix Tower International (Blackstone)


Colony Capital


GIC


APG


La Banque Postale Leasing and Factoring


Banque Populaire Grand Ouest


Norma Capital


Almaviva Santé


Edgar Suites


Crédit Agricole


Société Générale


SCPI Atlantique Mur Régions


Work highlights


  • Advised Phoenix Tower International, a subsidiary of Blackstone, in relation to the purchase in various batches from Cellnex, of over 3,200 telecom sites located throughout the French territory.
  • Advised SCPI Vendome Regions in relation to the purchase of a 10,166 sqm, multi-tenant ‘Yellow 5’ office building located in Massy.
  • Advised Atlantique Murs Regions, a real estate fund (SCPI) managed by Banque Populaire Grand Ouest Gestion d’Actifs, on the purchase in state of future completion from Vinci, of the ‘Solferino’ building, a HQE-certified 6,775 sqm building in Rennes.

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés

Practice head(s):

Catherine Castro; Muriel Guillin-Modaine; Bruno Lunghi; Danielle Smolders


Key clients

Aeg Power Solution


American Library Of Paris


Bsh Gaggenau


Caisse Des Depots Et Consignations / Banque des Territoires


Catinvest


Chateau D’eau


Clarins


Collectivité Territoriale De Guyane


Commerce De La Republique (Opci)


Crédit Agricole Immobilier


Criteo


Culligan


Groupe Dokhan


Groupe Le Duff


Hachette Livre


Hines


Les Caisses D’épargne


Meridiam


Montea


Nexity


Nippon Paint Automotive France


Norma Capilal


Patrizia


Sarl Orléans


Sci Mousset


Sci Taillandier


Seita


The Bureau


The Socialite Family


Unedic


Wallis & Futuna


Whirlpool


Work highlights


  • Assisted Hachette Livre with the relocation of its book distribution center.
  • Assisted Hines with the acquisition of the future flagship of Eiffage in Saint Ouen: we have provided tax advice on the acquisition and the structuring of the acquisition.
  • Assisted CDC with the negotiation of a partnership with Roundshield Partners, a UK investment fund, concerning the development, construction and operation of a tourist resort, Les Bordes.

Fieldfisher

Practice head(s):

David Bensimon


Work highlights


GALM Avocats

Practice head(s):

Pierre Appremont; Arnaud Guérin; Paméla Le Jeune; Olivia Michaud


Testimonials

‘Availability, pragmatism, efficiency, technicality.’

‘Arnaud Guérin: pro-business, pragmatic, very available.’

‘An agile, available, pragmatic and multidisciplinary team. Incredible responsiveness.’

Key clients

AG Real Estate France


Altixia


Assembly


AXA Reim


Brockwell Capital Limited


Colliers Global Investors France


Crédit Agricole Immobilier (CAI)


Dentressangle Foncière Immobilière


Eternam


Compagnie Foncière Et Financière d’investissement Immobilier (COFFIM)


GA Promotion


Goodman


Hammerson


Icade


Ivanhoé Cambridge


Kadans Science Partner


Keys Reim


LBO France Gestion


Prédica


Primonial Reim


Prologis


Roche Dubar & Associés


Schroders


Sogelym Dixence


Swiss Life Asset Managers France


Tishman Speyer


Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW)


Work highlights


  • Provided legal and tax advice to Crédit Agricole Immobilier regarding the acquisition of Sudeco, a property management subsidiary of Casino Immobilier.
  • Assisted a developer-investor consortium comprising GA Promotion, Crédit Agricole Immobilier Corporate et Promotion, Equinox and Progama with a transaction relating to an eight-building office complex.
  • Assisted French data center operator Data4 with its acquisition of a site leased from Nokia in Nozay (Essonne) in order to set up a new campus of 8 data centers.

Goodwin

Practice head(s):

Sarah Fleury


Testimonials

‘I work with Sarah Fleury on matters of commercial leases and real estate litigation. Sarah and her team are very competent and very responsive. She is a fine negotiator who makes deals possible.’

‘A very responsive and efficient real estate team. The people in charge do not hesitate to get involved in detail in the processing of the file to result in a service perfectly oriented towards the client’s interest.’

Key clients

Caisse des Dépots et des Consignations


Clarion Gramercy (UK) Limited


Coffim


DocCity


Germitec


GreenOak Europe


Groupe Amaury


Groupe Philippe Ginestet


Epopée Gestion


City (former Fiducim)


Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts


HqO


Meininger Hotel Europe


MACSF


Oaktree Capital Management


Keys REIM


RoundShield Partners


Tokoro Capital


French Food Capital


Repligen


France Thermes


Moderna


Patron Capital Partners


Cromwell


Alvarium Osesam


Azulis Capital


Umiami


Leal Therapeutics


Work highlights


  • Advised Umiami on the acquisition of its first commercial-scale plant consisting of a former Unilever production facility located in Duppigheim, Alsace.
  • Advised Tokoro Capital on the acquisition of an office building located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris.
  • Advised DocCity on the leasing of its properties located in Suresnes, Fréjus, Toulon, and Marseille, consisting of L1 and L2 laboratories and offices.

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Practice head(s):

Michaël Lévy; Laure Nguyen


Other key lawyers:

Margot Derumaux; Alice Houdart


Testimonials

‘A very pleasant and very competent team. We call on HL for our construction matters but also commercial leases as well as disputes. The people we speak to always provide very good advice and are very responsive.’

‘Michael Levy is noted for his commercial approach and his ability to find solutions and compromises in difficult situations; Margot Derumaux, for her work and involvement; and Alice Houdart, for the speed of response, execution and flawless presence in moments of tension.’

‘We’ve been working with Michael Lévy for several years now. Michael Lévy is always extremely responsive and involved, and helps us with legal issues and negotiations. We’ve won a number of deals thanks to his negotiating skills. Michael Lévy is a lawyer who understands financial issues like a businessman.’

‘The team combines thorough analysis and great negotiation skills. They are available any time and able to deliver excellent output in very tight deadlines on all real estate matters.’

‘Michael Lévy is an excellent lawyer, proactive and business-oriented. He is a creative thinker and a great negotiator. Alice Houdart is extremely knowledgeable and delivers outstanding quality outputs under very tight deadlines. It is very reassuring for clients to know they are both 100% reliable.’

Work highlights


  • Advised M&G Real Estate on the acquisition of a new logistics warehouse located in northern France.
  • Assisted Valor Real Estate Partners with numerous transactional and development matters in France.
  • Assisted SCPI Pierval Santé with numerous transactional and development projects in France.

Le 16 Law

Practice head(s):

Morgan Gizardin


Other key lawyers:

Thomas Leblanc


Testimonials

‘Morgan Gizardin is a skilled lawyer with whom it is a pleasure to work: the exchanges are fluid. His colleague Thomas Leblanc is also appreciated.’

‘Availability of advice, general atmosphere of the teams, presence of partners and multidisciplinarity.’

‘Responsiveness and in-depth research.’

‘Morgan Gizardin and Thomas Leblanc form a complementary, responsive duo.’

‘The team is always available, complete and proactive with reasoned feedback. Discussions are always very constructive and pleasant.’

‘Very professional team. Demonstrates teaching skills with great communication skills to facilitate decision-making and the development of legal strategy.’

‘Morgan Gizardin is an excellent professional – very attentive and perfectly comfortable with our business issues, which facilitates discussions and the expression of strategic recommendations. Thomas Leblanc is responsive, displaying an agility of mind, and a perfect understanding of the issues and our expectations.’

Key clients

AEW


Patrizia


Indigo


Welcome to the Jungle


Finspot


Work highlights


  • Advised AEW (acting as landlord) on the negotiation of a 10-year commercial lease agreement with Tethys.
  • Advised Welcome to the Jungle (a tech scale-up company which recently raised EUR 50m) on the negotiation of a 9-year commercial lease agreement regarding its headquarters.
  • Advised Indigo Group (acting as a landlord) on a series of amendments to a lease agreement regarding a car park complex in France with Shurgard.

Reed Smith

Practice head(s):

Stéphane Illouz; Carole Steimlé


Testimonials

‘Very available and responsive team.’

Taylor Wessing

Practice head(s):

Alfred Fink; Amandine Joulié


Testimonials

‘Availability, responsiveness, efficiency, business sense.’

‘Very good ability to work on French law files in a multicultural context. Alfred Fink managed the diversity of speakers of different languages very well on a recent file.’

‘Alfred Fink is an excellent lawyer. He shows a lot of experience and a lot of tact and patience. He works very well and without apparent stress under time constraints.’

‘Alfred Fink is a very competent and experienced real estate lawyer. He gives practical legal advice keeping the client’s business situation in mind.’

‘Amandine Joulié demonstrates great professionalism and is very invested in her clients. She makes herself available, and is very responsive. I really enjoy working as a team with her.’

Key clients

Continuum


Communauté des héritiers RIHS


Global Hotel & Resorts


Garbe


GEW


Coros


Altarea


PREM


Corsalis Real Estate Logistics


Smith Toys


Clear Channel France


Paris Society


La Belle Vie


UGGC Avocats

UGGC Avocats

Practice head(s):

David Gordon-Krief; Julien Mayeras


Key clients

RedTree Capital


Accor


Paris 2024


LFPI (La Financière Patrimoniale d’Investissement) – Lazard Bank


DocCity


Grand Port Maritime de Bordeaux


Eternam


La Fourche


CDC Habitat


Wojo


AB SAGAX