The sizeable real estate finance team at 'top-tier firm' Allen & Overy LLP is 'by far and away the best in terms of expertise, client service and commercial advice' and its 'ability to project manage multi-disciplinary and multi-jurisdictional matters is key'. The team handles senior, mezzanine and development financing, the sale and acquisition of real estate loan portfolios, and complex financings and restructurings across Europe. Following the retirement of Arthur Dyson, the team is led by the 'truly exceptional' Mark Manson-Bahr, who is adept in transactions in the pan-European arena, and Simon Roberts, who acts for both banks and borrowers, with expertise in advising banks on large-scale real estate loan portfolio transactions. Among other key contacts, David Oppenheimer has a broad client base and wide-reaching expertise in complex transactions, and Peter Mailer, who was promoted to partner in May 2020, is active in national and cross-border mandates.
Property finance in London
Allen & Overy LLP
Practice head(s):
Simon Roberts; Mark Manson-Bahr
Other key lawyers:
David Oppenheimer; Peter Mailer; Lucy Oddy; David Varne
Testimonials
‘Top-tier firm. Excellent technical knowledge and very deep market knowledge. They operate very efficiently but without any reduction in the quality of service or responsiveness.’
‘They have great depth in practice and the right balance in terms of strong experienced partners and dynamic hardworking young partners and associates. There are only a few firms that can genuinely deliver large pan-European complicated deals and A&O lead the pack. Their strength in Europe is standout and their ability to project manage multi-disciplinary and multi-jurisdictional matters is key. The team also benefits from experience not only in property finance but leverage, corporate and restructuring matters, with multiple partners experienced in more than one of these areas. If a deal has a hybrid element – which is becoming more and more common – this team is very well placed to do this work and well. In addition to having the knowledge and market experience to assist clients at all levels, they are also very commercial, approachable and good at relationships.’
‘I have known the team a long time but they consistently perform at a high standard. I have the utmost confidence in their expertise, knowledge and capacity to get a transaction done within a tight timescale.’
‘What stands out is the breadth and depth of the team. By far and away the best in terms of expertise, client service and commercial advice.’
‘David Oppenheimer’s star continues to rise. He is simply a great lawyer. He has the right balance of technical excellence, commercial acumen and approachability. Both the commercial teams and the in-house lawyers love working with him. Peter Mailer is one of the best lawyers we have worked with technically and one of the most approachable. He makes complex matters understandable for clients. Peter has a strong future ahead of him. David Varne is a very impressive lawyer. His presence leading on some of the largest pan-European commercial real estate financings over the last few years makes him stand out.’
‘David Oppenheimer and Simon Roberts have been the lead partners for all our transactions so far. They have always provided top-quality advice when required.’
‘Mark Manson-Bahr is truly exceptional. He reads every word, sweats the detail but is commercial and gets the job done with minimum fuss and drama. Always comes in on cost. Best value in the City.’
‘Peter Mailer is very commercial. He provides pragmatic solutions, has excellent technical knowledge, and is very responsive.’
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP's 'commercially astute' real estate finance team works alongside the firm's construction and planning teams and its Manchester and Southampton branches to complete complex and pan-European mandates. Naveen Vijh heads the practice, acting predominantly for lenders on acquisition, development and structured finance mandates. Claire Watson acts for banks, corporations and funds, and also has strengths in the student accommodation arena. Both the 'technically excellent' Daniyal Ansari and Gordon McMillan are highly adept at development and investment financing across a range of asset classes in the UK and overseas. Payam Yoseflavi is experienced in acting for both lenders and borrowers.
Practice head(s):
Naveen Vijh
Other key lawyers:
Claire Watson; Daniyal Ansari; Gordon McMillan; Payam Yoseflavi
Testimonials
‘A skilled and knowledgeable team who are always willing to go above what is required and available any time when needed.’
‘When it comes to executing a real estate finance deal, the strength and depth of the BCLP team is second to none.’
‘The team has great strength in depth at both partner and associate level. They are very responsive and give high-quality commercial advice.’
‘BCLP know their business inside out. Not only the law, but what lenders are in the market and what the current commercial terms are. A very commercially astute practice.’
‘The team is very experienced, particularly in relation to real estate transactions, which is invaluable given the increased complexity of such transactions.’
‘Daniyal Ansari pulls together the team and has respect on both sides of a deal in order to provide workable solutions.’
‘Daniyal Ansari is a class act – technically excellent, innovative, committed and commercial. His ability to get people around a table and agree a way forward is very impressive.’
‘Naveen Vijh is very commercial and knowledgeable. He handles any unforeseen matters in transactions very well and overall transaction management is excellent.’
Key clients
Allianz
Lodha Developers
Unite Students
Northwood Investors
Argent
Cheyne Capital Management Ltd
BlackRock
LaSalle Investment Management
Barclays Bank
Ballymore
Work highlights
- Advised LaSalle Investment Management, a global real estate investment manager, on its £106m loan facility to finance the development of two retirement villages in Cobham, in the south of England.
- Advised Hexagon Holdco S.a r.l. on the €473.4m refinancing of a major part of its €1bn portfolio of 47 logistics assets in Spain, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Belgium and Germany after acting for the client on the acquisition and bridge financing of the portfolio at the start of the year.
- Advised ICG Longbow on two separate facilities worth £140.5m and £36.8m.
Clifford Chance LLP
Clifford Chance LLP's London real estate finance team has wide-reaching expertise across both the UK and the globe. Andrew Carnegie leads the practice, with expertise in real estate finance and arrangements, insolvency, structured finance and securitisation. Jane Cheong Tung Sing focuses on senior, mezzanine and development financings within a pan-European framework, and Barry O’Shea is also strong on pan-European work, advising both lenders and borrowers. Emma Matebalavu is experienced in UK and European loan portfolio sales and financings, as well as advising on commercial mortgage-backed security (CMBS) transactions. In addition, Laura Smallcombe, who was promoted to partner in May 2021, is experienced in major UK and European deals and director Claire Fawcett is also a notable team member.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Carnegie
Other key lawyers:
Jane Cheong Tung Sing; Barry O’Shea; Emma Matebalavu; Claire Fawcett; Laura Smallcombe
Key clients
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Apollo
Deutsche Bank
Goldman Sachs
Morgan Stanley
Blackstone
Wells Fargo
JP Morgan
Fortress Investment Group
Davidson Kempner
Work highlights
- Advised Bank of America on the origination of a £518.3m senior loan facility and an underwritten CMBS of a £450m tranche of that senior loan facility, Taurus 2020-2 UK.
- Advised HSBC and Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited on the £600m financing of 20 Fenchurch Street in London.
- Advised Deutsche Bank AG on the first social housing CMBS on the market.
Addleshaw Goddard
The 'well-resourced, experienced and commercial' real estate finance team at Addleshaw Goddard handles work for both lenders and borrowers in the private rental, student accommodation, hotel, logistics and office sectors. The team is also involved in green real estate finance. Steve Mackie leads the team, with extensive experience in real estate-backed finance and social housing finance work. Paul Salsbury is a member of the firm’s cross-border real estate group, and as a result is also skilled in international real estate finance. The 'excellent' Zoe Maurer has expertise in the hotel, leisure and retail industries, leading the firm’s hotel finance practice. Zak Ikponmwosa is skilled at handling work involving multiple debt issues and cross-border matters.
Practice head(s):
Steve Mackie
Other key lawyers:
Paul Salsbury; Zoe Maurer; Zak Ikponmwosa; Sarah Egbu; Neil McGibbon
Testimonials
‘Great support from a well-resourced, experienced and commercial team. Quick responses and excellent advice in fast-moving situations is key to us as a team and we get that from AG.’
‘The team is exceptional in the service they provide. The insights and the different relationships that we were introduced to were evidence of how good the team was. The feedback and the advice we have received was of the utmost professionalism and had the client’s best interests in mind.’
‘The team are very inclusive and very hands-on from partner to associate levels. The level of engagement occurs across the seniority bands. The team has a varied and deep knowledge of real estate (encompassing the finance and property aspects), having acted for borrowers and lenders in bilateral, syndicated and corporate capacities. This experience spans the development and acquisition/investment finance side. As a result of their depth of knowledge, negotiations on legal documents and structuring are made more efficient and collaborative since they are familiar with the perspective of both lender and borrower. Overall, communication and case management are great.’
‘Sarah Egbu is very easy to deal with. With a strong team behind her she is available when required to assist with matters. Sarah has been incredibly helpful over the years in concluding some challenging deals. I really like the commercial approach that Sarah applies to the challenges being faced.’
‘Neil McGibbon is incredibly knowledgeable and commercial when dealing with matters. I enjoy working with Neil as when issues arise we work through them in a logical manner, considering all the risks before deciding on an appropriate course of action.’
‘Paul Salsbury remains technical, pragmatic, realistic and commercial in his approach. He is market-facing and mindful of the key issues facing lenders and borrowers alike.’
‘Zoe Maurer provided excellent client service. She couples a keen eye for detail with a sound commercial interpretation to inform pragmatic positions being taken on commercial sticking points. Zoe is very responsive, supporting us throughout to ensure that critical deadlines were hit.’
‘Zoe Maurer is an excellent partner, highly experienced and leads transactions very well. A calm head with steel when it is required.’
Key clients
Aareal Bank AG
AIB Group UK plc
AgFe
Al Rayan
Aviva
Bank of Ireland
Bank of London & The Middle East plc
Bayerische Landesbank
British Arab Commercial Bank
C C Land
Canada Life Investments
Cheung Kei Group
CIMB
Clydesdale Bank plc
Coutts & Co
Criterion Capital
Deutsche Hypothekenbank
Emirates NBD Bank, London Branch
Europa Capital Debt Investment
First Abu Dhabi Bank
Fortwell Capital
Gaw Capital Group
GR Properties
Hamburg Commercial Bank
Handelsbanken plc
HB Reavis
Hengli Group
Hillview Real Estate
ICICI
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited
Investec Bank plc
KAMCO Investment Company K.S.C.P.
Kasamar Holdings
KTB Asset Management
Landesbank Hessen-Thuringen GZ
Lembaga Tabung Haji
McLaren Property
MiddleCap Real Estate
Mount Anvil
Nationwide Building Society
Nord/LB, H
Work highlights
- Advised the lenders, RBC Europe Limited and another major financial institution, in relation to Sterling Overnight Index Average (SONIA)-linked facilities to Supermarket Income REIT totalling £150m, comprising an £80m revolving credit facility and a £70m uncommitted accordion option.
- Acted for Clydesdale Bank on the development financing of the Virgin Hotel, Edinburgh, the first Virgin-branded hotel in the UK and across Europe.
- Advised Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC) on the acquisition, development and financing of PIC’s first-ever built-to-rent scheme, a 450,000 square foot residential development next to Victoria Station, Manchester.
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP works closely with its offices in Paris, Frankfurt and Madrid, and thus has cross-border capabilities in real estate financings, restructurings and insolvency mandates. Practice head Simon Chadney has an impressive client base and substantial expertise in acting for borrowers, lenders and other creditors regarding secured and unsecured lending transactions, debt restructurings and insolvencies. The 'excellent' Gary Hommell focuses on investment and development financings throughout the UK, the US and Europe. Chris Mann, who was promoted to partner in May 2021, is another key contact.
Practice head(s):
Simon Chadney
Other key lawyers:
Gary Hommell; Chris Mann
Testimonials
‘I have a very good opinion of the team. I can tell they are coordinated internally (i.e. London-Madrid) and I don’t have to repeat myself or find they are not on top of something jointly. The positive experience has been consistent across the different team members. They are responsive, commercial, give clear explanations and make my life easier.’
‘I enjoy working with the HSF team and think their strength is their good execution of deals across borders and project management. They collaborate well.’
‘Gary Hommel is an excellent relationship partner and Chris Mann, who was promoted from senior associate to partner this year, is now our key contact on day-to-day matters.’
Key clients
Lloyds Bank Plc
The British Land Company Plc
JP Morgan Asset Management
Deutsche Bank AG
Apollo
Capital & Counties
Morgan Stanley
Cerberus
DekaBank
Societe Generale
Deutsche Pfandbriefbank
BNPP
Ballymore
United Overseas Bank
Hammerson
Capital & Counties
Cain International
Brookfield
Work highlights
- Advised the lender group of Lloyds Bank Plc and CIMB on their £139m financing of Elite’s acquisition of a portfolio of office properties in England, Wales and Scotland.
- Advised British Land on its first environmental, social and governance (ESG)-linked £450m revolving credit facility from a syndicate of eight banks.
- Advised BNPP and United Overseas Bank on a £160m development financing of Get Living’s Lewisham build-to-rent development scheme.
Hogan Lovells International LLP
Hogan Lovells International LLP's real estate finance team is noted for its ability to act for a diverse range of lender and borrower clients, including private equity funds, banks, debt funds, family offices and entrepreneurs. It is active in completing restructurings, development finance and acquisition finance mandates in the UK and across Europe. The 'very practical' Andrew Flemming leads the practice, with expertise in handling UK-based and European transactions. The 'commercial, concise and clear' Jo Solomon is also skilled in advising both lenders and borrowers, including private equity firms and investment banks. Katie Gill has a particular focus on acquisition and cross-border finance.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Flemming
Other key lawyers:
Jo Solomon; Katie Gill
Testimonials
‘The team have a great understanding of real estate and the key points which are important to lenders.’
‘Very commercial. Strength in depth, with senior associates who are very strong as well as at partner level.’
‘Experienced team with strong capabilities across all real estate sectors. A cohesive team with appropriate staffing. Partner engagement throughout with strong support by senior associates.’
‘An experienced team that is well supported, able to meet timelines efficiently and looks to provide pragmatic and solution-oriented advice.’
‘Andrew Flemming is very practical and has a calm authority.’
‘Jo Solomon is commercial, concise and clear.’
Key clients
HSBC
Hines European Core Fund
Citi
JP Morgan
DRC Capital
Kingdom Holding Company
Kingdom Hotel Investments
Henderson Global Investors
U + I Group Plc
Cain International
Brent Cross South Limited Partnership
Argent Related
Macquarie
Columbia Threadneedle
Cheyne Capital
M&G
Work highlights
- Advising BXS LP, a partnership between Argent Related and Barnet Council, on the redevelopment of Brent Cross Town, which is to create a 180-acre mixed-use neighbourhood, providing 6,700 new homes and workspace for over 25,000 people.
- Advising Intermediate Capital Group plc on the cross-border financing of the office complex “Energy II” located in Berlin-Moabit.
- Advising Hines European Core Fund on the first green loan facility for the Hines Pan-European Core Fund (HCEF) with ING.
Linklaters LLP
Linklaters LLP's real estate finance team benefits from the firm's international network, and is subsequently active in pan-European deals with strengths in restructuring and insolvency. The team is co-led by Steve Smith and the 'incredibly knowledgable' Scott Simpson. Smith has expertise in structured and distressed transactions, as well as cross-border mandates after previously being based in the firm’s Singapore and Frankfurt offices. Simpson also has cross-border strengths and is active in European transactions, advising banks, fund managers and private equity sponsors. Philip Gore is adept at development financing transactions and mezzanine-level portfolio transactions.
Practice head(s):
Scott Simpson; Steve Smith
Other key lawyers:
Philip Gore; James Godfrey
Testimonials
‘The Linklaters London real estate finance team delivers exceptional work on every transaction. Their knowledge of the market, new legal developments and commercial application of those make them a very much trusted adviser. Not only are they a safe pair of hands, but they consistently push the best outcome, while delivering timely and exceptional quality work, for us.’
‘A solutions-oriented team, not just pointing out what the issues are.’
‘Very commercial approach to the way transactions are approached, with a very solutions-oriented focus.’
‘Scott Simpson is our go-to partner for real estate finance at Links – he is incredibly knowledgeable and very commercial. He is amazing in tough negotiations and just simply gets the job done. It’s clear that his team love working for him and it’s really fun to have him working alongside you. Scott has particular strengths in inter-creditors and pan-European deals.’
‘Scott Simpson and Philip Gore are my go-to for any transaction. They are truly trusted advisers. They are exceptional at balancing a no-nonsense and pragmatic approach with top-level legal and market knowledge.’
‘Steve Smith has an ability to go to heart of the issue.’
‘James Godfrey is great to work with and has a breadth of experience.’
Key clients
Apollo Global Management
M&G Investments
Goldman Sachs
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
King Street Capital Management
Royal Bank of Canada
Citigroup
HSBC
LaSalle Investment Management
Wells Fargo
Lloyds Banking Group
OakNorth Bank
H.I.G. Capital
Sculptor Capital Management
Cale Street Partners
Generali Group
Nuveen
Sculptor Capital
AustralianSuper
Macquarie
Prologis
Deutsche Bank
CACIB
Insight Investment Management
Blackstone Real Estate Strategies
Work highlights
- Advised M&G Investment Management Limited, in its capacity as arranger, and CBRE Loan Services Limited, in its capacities as agent and security agent, in relation to the provision of loan financing of £353m to entities ultimately owned by Zeno Capital Limited in order to refinance existing indebtedness secured against Riverbank House, London and Sainsbury’s supermarket, Croydon.
- Advised Apollo on the Arcadia administration and also ultimately advised on the appointment of KPMG as administrators to the property vehicle owning 314 Oxford Street, London (the Topshop flagship store).
- Advised Goldman Sachs on providing €394m senior term and capex facilities in respect of the acquisition of 30 commercial real estate assets located in a number of major German cities, Paris and Amsterdam.
Mayer Brown International LLP
Mayer Brown International LLP’s 'pragmatic, focused and commercial' real estate finance team acts for both lenders and borrowers nationally and internationally, and in particular for Asian clients investing in London real estate. It is skilled at handling large portfolio financings and title insurance transactions, and it is growing its private equity real estate practice. Andrew Hepner, who is experienced in property finance transactions, debt restructuring, and debt portfolio acquisitions and disposals, and David O’Connor, who is well versed in loan organisations and CMBS, co-lead the team. The addition of Charles Malpass, who joined from Dechert LLP in February 2021, strengthens the team's capabilities with his expertise in advising on transactions in Europe, Russia, the Middle East and the US. Senior associate Annabel Ersser focuses on structured real estate finance for lenders and borrowers, whilst Andrew Crotty is adept at handling work in the residential, healthcare, retail and leisure sectors.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Hepner; David O’Connor
Other key lawyers:
Charles Malpass; Annabel Ersser; Andrew Crotty
Testimonials
‘The team is very well organised and very well managed. The team has a strong knowledge of the law and the real estate market. They always deliver excellent value and provide invaluable answers to difficult commercial or legal questions. They are extremely diligent, very quick, always thinking ahead and very solution driven.’
‘What’s unique about this team is that they understand what matters commercially and flag that to us to pay attention. Very attentive to details and good follow-up on outstanding documents/items.’
‘An extremely competent and well-coordinated deal team across all disciplines, Mayer Brown take a pragmatic, focused and commercial view in their advice and that is why we continue to use them on our most complex transactions.’
‘Fast responses, professional advice given for the protection and best interests of the client, willing to work hard and around the clock to suit the client’s tight time schedule.’
‘Andrew Hepner and Annabel Ersser are excellent lawyers, with strong knowledge of the industry – they are very solution driven, with excellent communication and management skills.’
‘I work mostly with Annabel Ersser and Andrew Hepner. They’re very attentive and commercial. Annabel helps collaborate with various parties, which centralises a lot of discussions, making the process easier. Andrew has many suggestions on commercial points.’
‘Andrew Hepner and Annabel Ersser are an established team in the real estate finance space and their extensive experience allows them to cut through the noise of the deal and focus on the true risks and commercial implications in their advice. We have worked with them for years and will continue to do so as our preferred legal advisers.’
‘Familiar with client needs and views through deals transacted before, and cope with all sorts of new banking compliance and requirements in a very tight timeline set upfront. Can mobilise various parties to cope with complicated transactions.’
Key clients
LKK/Infinitus
China CITIC Bank
Cheyne Capital
Ascott/Capitaland
Citibank
Bank of America Europe
Societe Generale
BNP Paribas
Work highlights
- Advised LKK/Infinitus on the refinancing of the Walkie Talkie building, also known as 20 Fenchurch Street.
- Advised China CITIC Bank International Limited on a $269m syndicated bridging loan facility to Excel Winner UK Limited in connection with the refinancing of the acquisition and development of One Nine Elms Square in central London, a regeneration area that forms part of the wider site of the New Covent Garden Market.
- Advised Cheyne Capital in relation to the debt funding of DTZ Investors’ forward funding of a 310-room co-living scheme in Earlsfield, South West London.
Paul Hastings LLP
Paul Hastings LLP‘s real estate finance team handles debt origination, complex structured joint ventures and funds, and CMBS, with experience advising both lenders and borrowers on senior and mezzanine arrangements and Sharia-compliant financings. Following the departure of former practice co-head Justin Jowitt to White & Case LLP in June 2021, the team is led by ‘creative problem solver‘ Miles Flynn, who is active in the financing, syndication and securitisation of commercial real estate. Sierra Taylor has substantial expertise in the banking and finance arena, especially in mandates with a cross-border element.
Practice head(s):
Miles Flynn
Other key lawyers:
Sierra Taylor
Testimonials
‘The Paul Hastings team, led by Miles Flynn, is our go-to legal team for complex transactions or corporate structuring work. Miles is assisted by able, approachable partners in other areas like tax. He is always supported by able associates and paralegals.’
‘Partner-led service, providing succinct and clear advice and direction.’
‘Miles Flynn is the hardest working lawyer in London. He consistently delivers high-quality work. He is a creative problem solver and never gets into spurious debates with opposing counsel. He is like a member of the team.’
Key clients
Starwood European Finance Partners Limited
Bank of America Europe DAC
Investec Bank Plc
Aareal Bank AG
JP Morgan
Morgan Stanley
AIG
Deutsche Bank
Evans Randall
Och-Ziff
Link Mortgage Servicing
Situs
Freehold Corporation
DRC Capital
Oaktree Capital
Fairfield Real Estate Finance
Work highlights
- Advised Fairfield Real Estate Finance, as the borrower, on the refinancing of a loan on loan facility from JP Morgan.
- Advised Fairfield Real Estate Finance, as the lender, on a development facility to North Western Hall Investments Ltd as borrower.
Ashurst
The real estate finance team at Ashurst advises borrowers and lenders on development finance. Key members of the team include Ruth Harris, Sarah Watkinson and Jessica Jenner.
Other key lawyers:
Ruth Harris; Sarah Watkinson; Jessica Jenner
Testimonials
‘One of the best real estate finance teams.’
‘We love working with the team. Great group.’
‘The team are particularly strong and lead from the front. Great deal management and understanding of what needs to be done. Clear, confident advice from with minimal partner visibility required due to confidence in the team.’
‘Sarah Watkinson is excellent.’
Baker McKenzie
The 'dynamic' real estate finance team at Baker McKenzie is adept at complex cross-border real estate financings involving investment and development. Team head Sébastien Marcelin-Rice specialises in private equity and special situations real estate investment, advising lenders and sponsors across the UK and Europe. Senior associate Lisa Aspden-Li acts for both lenders and sponsors, with experience in mandates involving office assets, shopping centres, hotels, built-to-rent property and student housing.
Practice head(s):
Sébastien Marcelin-Rice
Other key lawyers:
Justin Salked; Lisa Aspden-Li
Testimonials
‘A dynamic team with a deep bench of advisers.’
‘Enthusiastic and willing to go the extra mile to get deals closed. Very prompt at responding.’
‘Sebastien Marcelin-Rice is very industrious and has special knowledge around France and Italy. When it comes to deals with English law documents and a property in France, they are our first choice.’
Key clients
Maybank
Standard Chartered Bank
CIMB Bank Berhad
OCBC Bank Berhad
MARK Capital
Standard Chartered Bank
DPK Management
The Children’s Investment Fund
Citigroup Global Markets Ltd
Goldman Sachs
Intermediate Capital Group plc
Landesbank Baden-Württemberg
Edwardian Group
Work highlights
- Advising Intermediate Capital Group plc on its agreement to forward fund a new 2.94 million sq ft global parts logistics centre for Jaguar Land Rover at Mercia Park, Leicestershire.
- Acted for Landesbank Baden-Württemberg in the $200m acquisition financing of a large portfolio of logistics assets in England and Ireland by JP Morgan private equity funds.
- Advised a syndicate of seven initial purchasers on the €300m 5.25% senior secured high-yield bond issuance by Vía Célere Desarrollos Inmobiliarios.
CMS
With 'strong technical knowledge and good strength in depth', the real estate finance team at CMS is adept at acting for lenders and borrowers across a variety of asset classes, including care homes, offices, hotels, hospitality and leisure properties, and logistics centres. 'Great problem solver' Simon Johnston jointly leads the practice with the 'extremely experienced' Clive Swillman, who has expertise in handling structured real estate financing, development financing and fund finance for both UK and international clients. Andrew Besser is also a notable team member, regularly acting for European investors.
Practice head(s):
Simon Johnston; Clive Swillman
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Besser; Mike Delaney; Catrin Evans
Testimonials
‘An experienced banking and property team which understands key lender requirements and has the ability to recommend solutions to commercial issues.’
‘This is a team with a naturally strong and commercial capability, whilst always striving to assist their clients in finding solutions to what are sometimes difficult and complicated banking and real estate problems.’
‘CMS have strong technical knowledge and good strength in depth across different disciplines (including banking, real estate and construction) and at different levels. I appreciated their ability to meet a tight completion deadline.’
‘The CMS team has a huge wealth of experience in real estate finance. We have found them friendly and approachable to work with, with a collaborative and commercially minded approach to transactions. They are able to smoothly guide us through the financings process, and get on with the job quickly and efficiently. We enjoy working with them.’
‘Mike Delaney is our go-to on real estate financing matters. He anticipates and is able to avoid potential issues on transactions, and works to ensure that our interests are sufficiently covered. Mike understands that we want to get on with the deal and is able to guide all parties through an efficient and swift process. He is always available to bounce ideas around and really gets the key commercial points. He ensures deals are staffed at the right level with appropriate experience and supervision. When working with Mike, we know we are in excellent hands.’
‘Andrew Besser is our friendly and patient lawyer who we rely on for a practical and commercial steer. His standout skills are understanding and fighting our corner in negotiations.’
‘Clive Swillman is an extremely experienced partner who proactively steps in to resolve key issues during negotiations between lender and borrower. Catrin Evans is a highly recommended banking lawyer who is extremely efficient in delivering to timescales and providing commercial advice to lenders.’
‘Simon Johnston has extensive experience and knowledge in UK property finance. He is able to provide simple solutions on complex issues and is very good in negotiation. He is a great problem solver.’
Key clients
HSBC
Santander
Bank of Ireland
M&G Investments
AIB
Galliard
United Overseas Bank
Bank Leumi
Clydesdale Bank
Aviva
UBS
Heron Tower Property Unit Trust
Mountpark
Sun Venture
Kinetic Capital
Work highlights
- Advised Sun Venture, a Singapore-based real estate investor and developer, on a large-scale real estate finance investment deal and a major office investment transaction.
- Advising the Heron Tower Property Unit Trust on the £400m, five-year loan refinancing of 110 Bishopsgate in the City of London with a consortium of lenders including ING, Landesbank Baden-Wurttemberg and SMBC.
- Advising logistics property company Mountpark on a development financing of logistics assets in England and Ireland.
Dentons
Dentons acts for major financial institutions and corporate borrowers, as well as private banks and private wealth teams, regarding investment and development financings. With a sizeable global network, it is adept at cross-border and European financings. 'Commercial' practice co-head Simon Tweedle has expertise in advising both borrowers and lenders on asset classes such as offices, retail and residential properties, hotels, care homes, student accommodation and shopping centres. Co-head James Irvine focuses on real estate finance involving hotels and related restructurings. Simon Masri similarly has expertise in hotel investments.
Practice head(s):
Simon Tweedle; James Irvine
Other key lawyers:
Simon Masri
Testimonials
‘Having worked with the banking and property team on a regular basis, they are easy to work with, take care of matters diligently and get the job done. The banking team are continually on top of things, with James Irvine always looking after our interests but, at the same time, retaining a commercial approach to get the deal done. The property team always seem to get the job done, dealing with issues before they reach me so limited input is often required.’
‘Highly commercial with the ability to pull in the wider expertise of the firm when required.’
‘Simon Tweedle is one of the most commercial and helpful real estate finance lawyers in the market. I will use him as a sounding board on wider matters as well as the deals he is appointed on.’
Key clients
Lloyds Bank
HSBC Bank
Metro Bank
Royal Bank of Scotland
NatWest
Lombard
DBS Bank
Société Générale
Chenavari Investment Managers
Ho Bee Land
Aprirose
McArthurGlen
Harrison Street Real Estate Capital
United Overseas Bank
OCBC
Raven Property Group
Cheyne Capital
InfraRed Capital Partners
Patrizia AG
Mayfair Capital
Swiss Life
Work highlights
- Acted for Cheyne Capital on its financing of the development of Strawberry Star’s Lu2on mixed-use scheme on the site of the former Vauxhall car factory in Luton.
- Acted for Realstar on its acquisition and the related financing elements of two separate long leasehold interests in PRS blocks, totalling 105 individual units across the two transactions, as part of the first phase of the new East Wick and Sweetwater multi-phased development within the Legacy Communities Scheme at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park site.
- Acted for a syndicate of lenders for the refinancing of a last-mile logistics portfolio that was bought by an acquisitive group during the course of 2019, 2020 and early 2021.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper's 'solution-driven and efficient' team has particular strength in complex cross-border mandates and sports stadium finance. Toby Barker leads the UK real estate finance practice, with expertise in complex cross-border portfolio financings. Paul Gray is also active in pan-European finance, focusing on leveraged real estate and structured finance transactions, and is also active in the sports arena. Chris Chan advises on many property asset classes and sectors, including hotels and leisure, commercial, retail, residential and student accommodation.
Practice head(s):
Toby Barker
Other key lawyers:
Paul Gray; Chris Chan
Testimonials
‘The team has a strong knowledge of the law and the real estate market. They always provide invaluable answers to difficult commercial or legal questions. The team is very well organised and very well managed, solution driven, efficient and transparent.’
‘Strong knowledge of clients’ needs, reliability, professional setup and excellent work quality, not overpriced, friendly and commercially thinking people.’
‘The partner involvement and breadth of experience speaks to the advantages of having DLA Piper as our legal counsel. I have lawyers in various jurisdictions all across Europe and DLA’s service and commitment to providing us with the best service has been second to none. The level of detail that DLA goes into is above and beyond expectations, is delivered with great communication and is always timely. I have pushed DLA many times to deliver some urgent matters and no matter the timeline I am always greeted with professional, complete and detailed advice.’
‘The commitment to excellent client service stands out in this firm. Once a relationship is built, DLA maintains that relationship going forward. Toby Barker has come through for my company time and time again as we have been presented with challenging milestones this past year, navigating through the financial difficulties that Covid-19 has presented. Being able to know you can revert to someone and get the right answer the first time is an invaluable resource to have.’
‘Toby Barker is very responsive, friendly and a professional partner with a great understanding of his client’s needs. He thinks commercial and does not show off in meetings like other firm’s partners do.’
Key clients
Aareal Bank AG
Aerium
AIB
Allianz
AMRO Partners
ARA Venn
Ares
Aviva
AXA Investments
Bain Capital
Bank Leumi
Barings Real Estate Advisers
Brookfield Asset Management
Cabot Properties
Cheyne Capital
Credit Suisse AG
Deutsche Bank
DRC
Edyn (formerly Saco)
Generali
Goldman Sachs
GULF
Harel Insurance Company
Harrison Street
Hermes
HIG
HSBC
ICG Longbow
ING
Invesco
Investec Bank plc
Kildare
KKR
LaSalle Investment Management
Laxfield
Mace
Lloyds Bank
M&G
Mount Street Mortgage Servicing Limited
Och Ziff
Oval Real Estate
Oxford Properties
Round Hill
Royal Bank of Scotland
Sabadell
Sanne
Santander
Shaftesbury
SMBC
Solutus Advisors Limited
Tyndaris
Work highlights
- Acting for Aareal Bank AG as lender on the €287m, £40m and SEK 507m refinancing of a European hotel portfolio for the Archer Hotel Group.
- Acting for a joint venture comprising of Harrison Street and Trinity Investment in relation to the refinancing of a portfolio of science parks across the UK.
- Acting for AXA Real Estate Investment Managers UK Ltd on the financing aspects of its share acquisition of a target group of companies to acquire Dolphin Square, London, involving a refinancing of a £365m outstanding debt facility.
Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP
Simon Mead heads Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP's real estate finance team, which is particularly noted for its development finance expertise. Robert Ludwig is also a key contact.
Other key lawyers:
Simon Mead; Robert Ludwig
Jones Day
Jones Day handles high-value London-based development projects and large-scale disposals and acquisitions, with particular expertise in fund finances and mezzanine financings. The 'excellent' team is adept at advising global financial institutions, issuers, borrowers, funds and asset managers, including major lenders such as Goldman Sachs, Blackstone, Greystar and Wells Fargo. Practice head Andrew Barker is skilled in advising on acquisition finance, investment facilities, construction loans, loan portfolio acquisitions and recapitalisations. Emily Stew is experienced in both domestic and cross-border work, representing private equity funds, alternative capital providers and corporate borrowers. Luke Johnson and associates Matt Trafford and Alice Reynolds are also notable team members.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Barker
Other key lawyers:
Emily Stew; Luke Johnson; Matt Trafford; Alice Reynolds
Testimonials
‘Excellent financing team that really feels like an extension of our own execution capability. Extensive knowledge of the applicable areas and a full service from start to finish of each transaction. An invaluable resource.’
‘Andy Barker provides exceptional client coverage and really excels in ensuring every aspect of the relationship is covered.’
‘Luke Johnson and Matt Trafford are both fantastic resources to have involved in closing financings – extremely diligent and knowledgeable, and generally great to work with.’
Key clients
Goldman Sachs
Blackstone
Wells Fargo
Delancey
Greystar
Work highlights
- Advised Goldman Sachs on the acquisition and recapitalisation of the Blanchardstown Centre in Dublin from Blackstone.
Kirkland & Ellis International LLP
Kirkland & Ellis International LLP‘s ‘truly exceptional‘ property finance practice is particularly strong in the private equity arena. The team is also active in handling acquisition and development finance, restructurings and disposals involving properties in the data centre, healthcare, logistics, hotels and leisure, office, residential and student accommodation sectors. The ‘absolutely fantastic‘ Jonathan Birks leads the team, with expertise in advising private equity houses and credit funds on restructurings, distressed investing and loan origination. Kazik Michalski is also strong in acting for private equity clients, as well as handling cross-border mandates.
Practice head(s):
Jonathan Birks
Other key lawyers:
Kazik Michalski; Usman Khan
Testimonials
‘I think the K&E team is truly exceptional. They provide the perfect combination of sector expertise, market knowledge, commercial approach and deal savvy to drive the best outcomes for their clients. The scope of their experience and presence in the market is also extremely helpful given they represent many of the top sponsors and have negotiated financing transactions with all major lenders, therefore, they know how to drive to the most efficient outcome. I wouldn’t use anyone else, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.’
‘My overall impression of K&E’s team is very strong. Having worked with a number of Magic Circle and Silver Circle firms in the past, K&E is a cut above. Their lawyers have no ego, and they are particularly adept at identifying the commercial issues that matter to their clients and finding solutions to pertinent issues. They have an incredible track record of working with financial sponsors, and their responsiveness, accuracy and tenacity is second to none.’
‘Very efficient and highly knowledgeable in their field. Exceptional commercial understanding which helps to identify and prioritise the key aspects of our transactions.’
‘I have worked very closely with Kazik Michalski and his team over the past 24 months and I don’t think our transaction would have completed without him. He’s extremely diligent, thorough, creative, and commercial.’
‘I have a particularly high opinion of Kazik Michalski, and he is undoubtedly the best finance lawyer I have ever worked with. Kazik’s unique combination of sharp intellect and deal intuition makes him an indispensable part of our legal advisory team on large and complex deals.’
‘Jonathan Birks is a standout lawyer; he displays excellent technical skills and commercial pragmatism in equal measure. His ability to remain calm and genuinely good-humoured in the midst of the deal is particularly impressive and much appreciated.’
‘Jonathan Birks is absolutely fantastic. He is extremely knowledgeable both on the law and the market, and very hardworking but also very down to earth and accessible.’
‘Usman Khan is highly responsive and surprisingly relaxed, irrespective of time pressures.’
Key clients
Ares Management
Bain Capital Credit
Blackstone
Brookfield
Centerbridge Partners
GIC
GLP
Node
TPG Real Estate
Work highlights
- Represented GIC in respect of the financing aspects of its joint venture with Equinix, Inc. to develop and operate xScale data centres in Japan.
- Represented Node in relation to the financing aspects of its partnership with Intriva Capital (an independent alternative investment manager) to build a €300m European investment platform.
- Represented GLP on two separate financings in connection with its circa $1bn acquisition of Goodman Group’s CEE logistics platform.
Macfarlanes LLP
Macfarlanes LLP has strengths in financings regarding hotels, the private rented sector and build-to-rent, with an increasing focus on the green and sustainable lending arena. The 'extremely experienced and knowledgeable' Colin Morgan leads the 'technically excellent' team, with expertise in advising senior and mezzanine lenders, borrowers and developers on property investment and development. Clare Breeze counts domestic and international borrowers and lenders among her clients. Jatinder Bains is also a notable team member, as is Laura Bretherton, who was promoted to partner in May 2021.
Practice head(s):
Colin Morgan
Other key lawyers:
Clare Breeze; Jatinder Bains; Laura Bretherton
Testimonials
‘Macfarlanes LLP’s team is really business oriented and very efficient on legal issues. They have a strong and resilient client base and they know their clients’ requests and goals very well.’
‘Technically excellent, responsive and old school, in a good way.’
‘Excellent depth of commercial real estate transactions.’
‘Very reliable and safe pair of hands.’
‘Laura Bretherton and Jat Bains are great to deal with and highly competent.’
‘Very thorough and knowledgeable, whilst also being down to earth and approachable.’
‘Colin Morgan is a smart, commercially focused, responsive lawyer. Extremely experienced and knowledgeable about the family office sector. Very pleasant to deal with.’
Key clients
ARA Venn
Constellation Hotels
DBS Bank Ltd
Harbour Lending Limited
ING Bank N.V.
Legal & General
London and Regional Hotels
Lulu Hospitality
M7 Real Estate
LW Theatres
Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited
PRS Operations Limited
Realstar
Supermarket Income REIT plc
Work highlights
- Advised Constellation Hotels on a £340m long-term facility to refinance The Connaught and The Berkeley hotels.
- Advised Legal & General on the £450m refinancing of an industrial property investment fund.
- Advised ARA Venn, as arranger, on the £29.65m acquisition and development facilities made to an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital, LLC to finance the acquisition and re-development of Tavis House, a 60,000 sq. ft office building in Bloomsbury, London.
Norton Rose Fulbright
With over 50 international offices, Norton Rose Fulbright acts for borrowers and lenders across the globe and domestically, in particular across Africa and Asia. The ‘excellent‘ property finance team is co-led by Dan Kennedy, who has strengths in restructuring deals, development financing and regeneration projects, and ‘superstar‘ Sarah Cullen, who advises on domestic and cross-border debt financings involving office, residential, retail, leisure, hotel, student accommodation and logistics properties. Jennie Dorsaint joined the team from Paul Hastings LLP in December 2020, bringing expertise in representing lenders, arrangers, investors, administrators and debt funds.
Practice head(s):
Sarah Cullen; Dan Kennedy
Other key lawyers:
Daniel Metcalfe; Jennie Dorsaint
Testimonials
‘Dan Metcalfe takes an active role on all transactions and always makes himself available for commercial discussions and negotiations, bringing his many years of experience to bear for the client’s benefit. The team is able to work fast without sacrificing attention to detail when required to meet tight deadlines. They have made increasing use of technology, particularly in the conditions precedent space.’
‘Their partner engagement, client management, knowledge and technical capabilities are outstanding. Clear fee arrangements and periodic WIP billing updates engender confidence in project controls and efficiency of service. Norton Rose made the legal elements of our transaction feel effortless – their advice was always clear, very timely and document reviews were controlled with well-managed and quickly resolved issues lists. A fantastic experience and a top class adviser.’
‘The team are excellent. They go above and beyond to get the deal done and have done a number of extremely difficult deals for us in the past year.’
‘A full-service real estate practice, with direct access to partners who run all elements of the transaction.’
‘Sarah Cullen is an absolute superstar. Highly responsive, very commercial and everything you want in a real estate finance lawyer.’
‘Jennie Dorsaint is a strong partner, is able to work across Europe on transactions with ease, and always manages the entire end-to-end process in order to ensure delivery on time and in a cost-effective manner.’
‘Sarah Cullen is clear, incisive, smart, collegial, patient and highly commercial in approach. She is an exceptional lawyer, with great poise and a very calm and friendly demeanour. Sarah knows exactly what needs to be done and ensures a crisp execution and excellent client management. She also manages her team incredibly well and invisibly, so her associates are empowered and similarly competent and her clients benefit from her close behind the scenes oversight and careful management of key commercials.’
‘Jennie Dorsaint is pragmatic and commercial, has great client knowledge and is cool-headed. She has exceptional knowledge of complex structures.’
Key clients
Olympus Property Holding
Picton Property Income
Standard Chartered Bank
ICBC
Nedbank
L1 UK Property Investments Pty Ltd
Funding Affordable Homes Housing Association Limited
Battersea Power Station
Emirates Bank
Lloyds Bank plc
Crest Nicholson Holdings plc
National Westminster Bank Plc
DBS Bank Ltd
Ivanhoe Cambridge
AIG
RBSI
Münchener Hypothekenbank eG
United Overseas Bank
Work highlights
- Advised a joint venture of institutional investors on the £875m facility arranged by Goldman Sachs in connection with the £1.3bn redevelopment of Olympia London, a 130-year old exhibition and events business.
- Advised PPHE Hotel Group, the FTSE 250 international hospitality real estate company, on its most recent £180m development financing being provided by Bank Hapoalim.
- Advised Standard Chartered Bank on the £48.2m financing to SRE Bourne Limited for the £76m acquisition of the Bourne Business Park.
Reed Smith LLP
Reed Smith LLP acts for lenders across a wide range of real estate finance mandates, including investment and development financing, private equity real estate funds and CMBS transactions. Kamal Arulvel is also ‘extremely knowledgeable‘ in investment and development finance, handling domestic and cross-border mandates. Nicholas Williams is skilled in the financing of private equity real estate transactions. Jason Richardson joined the team from Sidley Austin LLP in February 2021, strengthening its structured finance offering.
Other key lawyers:
Kamal Arulvel; Nicholas Williams; Jason Richardson
Testimonials
‘Great team with strong partner support.’
‘Dynamic, reliable and we particularly like the fact that Kamal Arulvel was hands on and always very responsive.’
‘Their key strengths are their diligence and ability to work with numerous other lawyers across various jurisdictions.’
‘Kamal Arulvel has been exceptionally supportive with the various complex transactions that we have been involved with across Europe. He has continued to provide support on an ongoing basis throughout the loan term and is always available when advice is needed.’
‘Kamal Arulvel is extremely knowledgeable and has a uniquely commercial approach to structuring warehouse/repo facilities.’
Simmons & Simmons
With offices situated across Europe, Simmons & Simmons is active in pan-European real estate finance mandates, offering 'fantastic coverage and advice' to clients including major insurance lenders, alternative lenders, debt funds, private wealth divisions and investment banks. Practice head Mark Waghorn has particular expertise across the residential, hotels and leisure, healthcare and retail asset classes, with a focus on handling restructuring and insolvency mandates for both lenders and borrowers. Paula Macnamara is strong in acting for lenders in acquisition, development and structured financing. Helen Hagan and Will Greig are also notable team members.
Practice head(s):
Mark Waghorn
Other key lawyers:
Paula Macnamara; Helen Hagan; Will Greig
Testimonials
‘We really like how responsive, engaging and likeable the team are. They are also really good at making and sharing connections and working collaboratively, which is critical for us.’
‘Fantastic coverage and advice and they have made a very painful process as fluent and seamless as it could possibly be.’
‘S&S have strength in depth in their real estate finance team. Mark Waghorn is an excellent relationship lead and ably assisted by a good team. I think they stand out for being commercial and making sure the deal gets done on time and budget, and for producing really good AI tools and tool kits, most notably for LIBOR conversion and ESG.’
‘Helen Hagan and Mark Waghorn are knowledgeable, thoughtful, well-connected and fun to work with.’
‘Helen Hagan provides strong and easy-to-follow advice, has great rapport, is always available and gets the job done!’
Key clients
M7 Real Estate Limited
ING Bank
Valor Real Estate Partners LLP
Legal & General
Cheyne Capital
Deutsche Hypo
Tishman Speyer
AgFe
Ingenious Real Estate Finance
Deka Immo
Dekabank
Nuveen
Société Générale
National Bank of Kuwait
Rothschild & Co
Deutsche-Hypo
Work highlights
- Acted for Société Générale on the provision of a £290m real estate investment loan to finance its acquisition of One London Wall Place Limited, for a purchase price of £480m.
- Acted for National Bank of Kuwait in respect of a £226m loan facility secured against a portfolio of high-value properties located in England.
- Advised ING on the origination of its first green multi-currency SONIA-based credit facility to HECF, a pan-European sustainability fund established by Hines, to provide £32m finance for an urban logistics park let to Dnata, located near the cargo area at Heathrow Airport, London.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP's 'extremely responsive' and 'commercial' team is highly active in real estate finance transactions involving private equity funds, with notable clients including Blackstone and KKR. Tom Lloyd leads the team, with expertise in advising clients on cross-border matters involving real estate investments. Promoted to partner in January 2021, Edward Hampson is also a notable team member.
Practice head(s):
Tom Lloyd
Other key lawyers:
Edward Hampson
Testimonials
‘The team is extremely responsive and integral to our business.’
‘They are commercial, solve problems creatively and think outside the box.’
Key clients
Biomed
The Blackstone Group
Joint venture between Blackstone and Telereal Trillium
Goldentree Asset Management
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts
Northwood Investors
Round Hill Capital
Sage Housing Group
Sponda Plc
Testa Residencial SOCIMI
Work highlights
- Represented Blackstone in financing the acquisition of the iQ student housing company from Goldman Sachs and the Wellcome Trust for £4.7bn.
- Advised Blackstone Real Estate Partners on its acquisition and financing of a portfolio of more than 200 Swedish logistics and industrial assets from Castellum Aktiebolag valued at $2.2bn.
- Acted for funds advised by Blackstone Tactical Opportunities and Round Hill Capital in connection with the sale of a portfolio of residential and commercial assets located in the Czech Republic to Heimstaden Bostad AB, for a purchase price of approximately €1.3bn.
Taylor Wessing LLP
With 'excellent real estate and related finance knowledge', the team at Taylor Wessing LLP acts for a wide range of domestic and international clients, including senior and mezzanine lenders, traditional banks, insurance companies, real estate funds and borrowers. Martin Yells leads the team and acts for a growing number of large corporate clients. Jonathan Marks has substantial experience in advising borrowers and lenders on debt financing, and his work can often involve cross-border elements. Heather Buttle has strengths in acting for alternative lenders, as well as handling mandates involving student accommodation. Amar Ali is adept at structured real estate finance, and Gareth Lawson is strong in senior, mezzanine and preferred equity arrangements.
Practice head(s):
Martin Yells
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Marks; Heather Buttle; Amar Ali; Gareth Lawson
Testimonials
‘Excellent real estate and related finance knowledge. Excellent deal management.’
Key clients
PIMCO
Sofina Foods
Starz Real Estate
Deutsche Bank
Deka Bank
PGIM
Helaba
Federated Hermes
Wells Fargo
MetLife Insurance
Work highlights
- Advised MetLife on a loan facility to finance the corporate acquisition of Brainport, a life sciences and innovation campus in Eindhoven, acting alongside teams in the Amsterdam and Eindhoven offices.
- Acted for Lloyds Bank on a £44m development financing for new student accommodation in three separate developments in London, Brighton and Bath.
- Advised a syndicate of lenders on a £450m facilities agreement (involving £200m term loan facilities and £250m revolving credit facilities) to Industrial Property Investment Fund.
White & Case LLP
White & Case LLP has a global team, with its expertise spanning across Europe, Asia and America, and in recent months it has become particularly adept at advising on data centre financings. Practice head Jeffrey Rubinoff has extensive expertise in acting for sponsors and lenders on domestic and pan-European mandates, especially regarding non-performing loan (NPL) financing transactions. The 'very responsive and highly technical' Victoria Landsbert is skilled in advising traditional and alternative lenders as well as family offices, whilst Sudhir Nair has strengths in mandates involving distressed investments and restructurings. The firm's experience in cross-border real estate finance transactions was further boosted by the arrival of Justin Jowitt from Paul Hastings LLP in June 2021.
Practice head(s):
Jeffrey Rubinoff
Other key lawyers:
Victoria Landsbert; Sudhir Nair; Justin Jowitt
Testimonials
‘Very responsive and very client focused.’
‘Extensive knowledge and experience across the sector and throughout the capital stack. Detail-oriented but highly commercial and pragmatic. Jeffrey Rubinoff and his team were essential partners in helping us close a large hospitality financing on a tight timetable.’
‘Great and consistent advice and service.’
‘Jeffrey Rubinoff speaks fluent real estate finance. He brings a sense of calm and composure to deal negotiations and is a thoroughly likeable person to do business with.’
‘Victoria Landsbert is very responsive and highly technical. She has good communication and she takes a pragmatic, commercial approach. She goes the extra mile for clients.’
Key clients
JP Morgan
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board
Royal Bank of Canada
LabTech Investments Limited
Ad-hoc committee of Notes
Aviva Investors Global Services Limited
Archer Hotel Capital
Westmont Hospitality
Global Compute Infrastructure LP
Sequoia Investment Management Co. Ltd
ING Bank N.V.
Global Invest
KSL Capital Partners International
Oaktree Capital Partners
Deutsche Bank
Work highlights
- Advised Archer Hotel Capital B.V. on the financing of a €400m pan-European portfolio of hotels, including one in the UK.
- Advised a major data centre developer on a multi-phase development financing for a new hyper-scale data centre in London.
- Advising Canada Pension Plan Investment Board on the potential restructuring and ultimate disposal of its participation in a mezzanine loan facility extended to London Exec offices.
Dechert LLP
The 'commercially minded' real estate finance team at Dechert LLP has undergone major expansion over the course of the past two years, with the addition of the 'brilliant' Aparna Sehgal, Sarah Smith and John McGrath strengthening the team's market position. The team predominantly acts for financial institutions and alternative lenders across the UK and Europe. Sehgal, who has particular expertise in multi-jurisdictional transactions, leads the team following the departure of former practice head Charles Malpass to Mayer Brown International LLP in February 2021.
Practice head(s):
Aparna Sehgal
Other key lawyers:
Sarah Smith; John McGrath
Testimonials
‘Aparna Sehgal’s finance team at Dechert is quick and efficient, and provides advice to the point across multiple jurisdictions. They have a hands-on approach but are also commercially minded. It is also good fun to work with them.’
‘Aparna Sehgal is a brilliant lawyer, probably one of the best when it comes to highly complex structured financing situations. She is also good fun to work with and always reachable.’
‘It is a pleasure working with Aparna Sehgal: she is a legal professional who sorts the wheat from the chaff and remains focused on the bigger picture, without losing a grasp of the detail if that explodes into a more strategic point. She allows her team room to shine and it shows in their interactions with me as their client, which leads to an efficient allocation of legal resource to the task at hand. Her manner is calm under fire and patient when explaining complex points.’
Key clients
BAWAG PSK
Sculptor Capital
Wells Fargo
Zetland Capital
Blackstone
Citibank N.A.
Ellington Management Group
AGC Equity Partners
Cheyne Capital Management
Apollo Global Management
Fieldfisher
Fieldfisher has rapidly expanded its real estate finance team over the past four years, as well as opening more than ten new offices across Europe, significantly growing its reach and client base. The 'innovative and proactive' team has a strong focus on the financing of hotels, care homes and student accommodation, and has developed expertise in acting for debt fund clients and investment banks. Philip Abbott leads the team as well as co-heading the firm’s financial markets and products group. John Nelmes is also a key member of the practice, alongside Jayne Backett, Iain Thomas and Christian Francis.
Practice head(s):
Philip Abbott
Other key lawyers:
Jayne Backett; Iain Thomas; Christian Francis
Testimonials
‘Really felt that we were valued as a client. The partner-level engagement was amazing. The team took incredible time and care to get to know and understand our team. Quite an incredible experience, especially during the Covid crisis.’
‘Great team to work with. Always innovative and proactive.’
‘Extremely accessible and approachable.’
‘We have worked very closely with the Fieldfisher team for several years now and the standout feature of their service is the way we collaborate. There is no “them and us” distinction. Rather, we operate as one team across the project, with Fieldfisher seamlessly integrating with our team and vice versa. It is an extremely efficient way of working and ensures clear lines of communication. I think of the Fieldfisher people as trusted members of our team, rather than external advisers.’
‘Jayne Backett took real care to build the relationship with the team and always made herself available when needed. She also had a great rapport with the borrower’s legal counsel. It was a really positive working relationship.’
‘Iain Thomas’ expertise in real estate came through very strongly and gave us a great deal of confidence in making decisions.’
Key clients
Allianz Debt Fund SCSp SICAV-SIF
Starz Real Estate
Hippodrome Casino Limited
PBB Deutsche Pfandbriefbank AG
CA Ventures
Metlife
London & Oxford Capital Markets Limited
M7 Real Estate Limited
Downing Development Lending Limited
Consensus Group
Work highlights
- Acted for Allianz Debt Fund SCSp SICAV-SIF as the lender on a £400m transaction.
- Acted for Allianz Debt Fund SCSp SICAV-SIF, as the lender, on a £162m term loan facility made available to a Jersey incorporated group of borrowers for the purposes of refinancing a portfolio of real estate assets, including three prime London office assets and a logistics asset in Milton Keynes.
- Acted for the committee of noteholders in one of the Intu Properties plc debt silos in connection with the real estate aspects of debt restructuring advice.
Fladgate LLP
Fladgate LLP acts for both lenders and borrowers equally, with 'great knowledge and experience' of advising on residential, office and hotel developments, often through senior, mezzanine and bridge financing structures. Practice head Kim McMurray specialises in investment and development loans, hotel, educational institution, charity and care home financing, and senior and mezzanine loans. Both Daniel Polden and Gary Smith have strengths in handling a range of transactions with cross-border elements, while Jenny Sargeant handles secured lending mandates.
Practice head(s):
Kim McMurray
Other key lawyers:
Daniel Polden; Gary Smith; Jenny Sargeant
Testimonials
‘They are good at structuring non-conventional transactions efficiently and reasonably cost effectively to get the required result. They resource the job to get it done on time.’
‘Great team to work with. Always innovative and proactive.’
‘Great knowledge and experience.’
‘Extremely accessible and approachable.’
Key clients
Strawberry Star
Bank of Ireland
London & Regional Properties
ICG Longbow
Greenoak Real Estate
CIMC
London Wall
Bank of Singapore
JP Morgan
KE Hotels
Work highlights
- Advised residential developer Strawberry Star on a £75m funding from Cheyne Capital for its mixed-use development, Lu2on.
- Advised Bank of Ireland on two financings involving two different schemes for a joint venture between private equity investor Angelo Gordon and Ridgeback Group in the build-to-rent sector.
- Advised London & Regional on a series of transactions, including a refinancing from Aareal Bank AG of The Mayfair Town House.
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher acts for UK and international lender and investor clients, which predominantly includes US sponsors, opportunity funds, hotel groups and investors. The 'highly experienced' Alan Samson leads the team, with substantial expertise in corporate and investment acquisitions and disposals, acquisition financing, joint ventures and, in particular, the acquisition of real estate loan portfolios. Ben Myers joined the firm from Kirkland & Ellis International LLP in August 2020, and Robert Carr joined from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP a year later, significantly strengthening the team's real estate finance offering.
Practice head(s):
Alan Samson
Other key lawyers:
Robert Carr; Ben Myers
Testimonials
‘They are committed, highly experienced, commercial and work independently.’
‘Alan Samson is highly experienced, commercial and always has his clients’ best interests at heart.’
Key clients
Accuride Corporation
Apollo Global Management
Ares Management
Brookfield
Cale Street Partners
Centerbridge
Davidson Kempner Capital Management
Deutsche Bank AG
Fremont Realty Capital, LP
Groupe Sofidy
Investcorp Bank B.S.C.
Meadow Partners
M&G
Nuveen Real Estate
Oaktree Capital Management
Realty Income Corporation
Related Companies
Tishman Speyer
Welltower
Ark Capital Advisors
Work highlights
- Advised Cale Street Investments LP, a real estate private equity investment firm, on the equity and debt aspects of its joint venture with Hines to invest €500m to develop 250,000 sq m of “Unione Zero” as part of a masterplan located in Milan.
- Advised South Downs Investment LP, a subsidiary of private equity investor Apollo, in connection with financing the take private of Atlantic Leaf, a dual-listed REIT and owner of a significant portfolio of logistics and industrial properties.
- Represented Cale Street Investments in connection with a $775m loan to Millennium Partners for the construction of the Winthrop Center, a new 690ft 52-storey mixed-use skyscraper in downtown Boston.
Goodwin
With 13 offices situated globally, the 'strong, partner-led' real estate finance team at Goodwin has particular experience in debt-related transactions, mezzanine financing and CMBS loans both domestically and abroad. Practice head Paul Lyons is active in the debt and fund financing arena, advising borrowers and lenders. The team has benefited from the recent additions of Richard Semple, who joined the firm from Kirkland & Ellis International LLP in October 2020, and Geoff O’Dea, who joined from Baker McKenzie in March 2021.
Practice head(s):
Paul Lyons
Other key lawyers:
Richard Semple; Geoff O’Dea
Testimonials
‘Strong partner-led team. Richard Semple is a strong hire with good client contacts and excellent knowledge of the market.’
‘Richard Semple has deep market knowledge and an understanding of the key drivers for us on the client side during the life of a deal, not just at origination.’
Key clients
Ares Management
BentallGreenOak
Crossroads Real Estate Partners
Medical Properties Trust
Lone Star Funds
Meadow Partners
Slate Asset Management
M7 Real Estate
Work highlights
- Advising BentallGreenOak on a number of matters, including a bridge finance for a hotel development at Great Newport Street; the financing of the Brooklyn Hotel in Manchester; and a development financing for a fund managed by Credit Suisse Asset Management Global Real Estate for the acquisition and development of Panther House.
- Advised Medical Properties Trust on a series of financings in connection with MPT’s €700m acquisition of a portfolio of 35 healthcare facilities from MEDIAN Kliniken and MPT’s $900m acquisition of Capella Healthcare.
- Advised MPT in respect of its agreement to acquire a portfolio of select behavioural health facilities, and their concurrent leaseback, from UK behavioural health provider The Priory Group.
Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG acts for UK clearing banks, debt funds and alternative lenders, REITs and overseas banks. The team advises on transactions involving a variety of asset classes, particularly residential, mixed-use, student accommodation, logistics and hotel properties. Nick Turner leads the team and is particularly strong in acting for debt fund clients.
Practice head(s):
Nick Turner
Key clients
ICG-Longbow
HSBC Bank plc
HSBC UK Bank plc
LBBW
Quadrant Real Estate Advisors
Aberdeen Standard European Logistics plc
Gravis Capital Management
London and Cambridge Properties
Empiric Student Property PLC
Deutsche Hypo
HC-One Limited
Work highlights
- Advised a real estate debt fund on a £42m multi-tranche loan acquisition facility to English and Manx borrowers.
- Advised HSBC UK Bank plc on Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CLBILS) facilities in excess of £400m.
- Advised Empiric Student Property plc on portfolio redrawable facilities of over £90m for the investment and development of student assets.
Latham & Watkins
Latham & Watkins has a focus on handling pan-European real estate finance transactions for investment banks, specialist lenders, financing syndicates, borrowers and investors, especially commercial mortgage transactions. Jeremy Trinder is global co-chair of the firm’s real estate practice and is adept at cross-border mandates involving structured finance. Quentin Gwyer has substantial expertise in advising on the debt and equity aspects of real estate mandates. Counsel James Beeson is skilled in acquisition and development finance.
Practice head(s):
Jeremy Trinder
Other key lawyers:
Quentin Gwyer; James Beeson
Key clients
Blackstone Real Estate Advisors
TDR Capital
Lineage Logistics
Stepstone
BAWAG
Cerberus Capital Management
Macquarie
Intriva Capital
Brookfield
Work highlights
- Representing TDR Capital in the financing of its £2.75bn acquisition of a controlling stake in ASDA Group from Walmart Inc.’s wholly owned UK business.
- Advised Blackstone as sole lender on the financing of the acquisition of 12 logistics properties in the UK by Northwood Investors.
- Advising Cerberus in relation to a senior and mezzanine mortgage financing secured over a portfolio of UK logistics properties.
Mishcon de Reya LLP
Nick Strutt leads the real estate finance practice at Mishcon de Reya LLP, which provides ‘sound commercial advice‘ to both lenders and borrowers. Strutt has substantial experience in advising banks, funds and investors on investment, development and structured financings. Raji Bartlett has expertise in advising on syndicated real estate investment and development finance transactions, as well as handling mandates involving student accommodation. The ‘technically very able‘ Sarah Spurling, who was promoted to partner in April 2021, is adept at domestic and international transactions. Former Reed Smith LLP practice head Francisca Sepúlveda joined in September 2021.
Practice head(s):
Nick Strutt
Other key lawyers:
Raji Bartlett; Sarah Spurling; Francisca Sepúlveda
Testimonials
‘I really rate the property finance team and think they provide sound commercial advice and a one-stop shop for our work, with good support from the planning, real estate and construction teams. Mishcon are notable for being ahead of the curve on the IT and AI products available to their clients, which increases efficiency and reduces costs.’
‘A comprehensive and broad set of knowledge and contacts.’
‘We have found MDR to be extremely responsive and able to hit very tight deadlines.’
‘Nick Strutt is a good relationship partner and is well assisted by Sarah Spurling, who was also made up from a legal director to a partner this year and is technically very able and one of our preferred lawyers. Sarah also helps us with other more general topics such as ESG and LIBOR transition.’
‘Nick Strutt understands all there is to know about real estate finance but more importantly he understands all there is to know about our business too. Nick’s ability to make the most complicated matters simple and provide commercial, sensible advice has proven invaluable over a long period of time.’
Key clients
Uninn Investment Fund
Catalina Reinsurance
Spear Street Capital
Bank of London and the Middle East Plc
Structadene (LBG) Properties Limited
PGIM
Helical Bar PLC
The Collective
Delancey Estates
Equites Property Fund
SLQR Trust No. 1
Unnin Investment Fund
Brookfield (Student Roost)
Work highlights
- Advising PGIM Real Estate, as the funder of Prologis’ portfolio of logistics assets, on its acquisition and the assumption of the PGIM debt by Blackstone for £473m, negotiating the terms of assumption, amended debt finance terms and refreshed security.
- Acting for Vebral Limited (a subsidiary of Aroundtown SA) as the lender on a £20m development funding of Bricks Silverstone.
- Acting for Blelatum Limited (a subsidiary of Aroundtown SA) as the lender on a £33m development funding of Bridge House, Uxbridge.
Osborne Clarke LLP
Osborne Clarke LLP's 'very collaborative and experienced' team has broad property finance capabilities, acting for both lenders and borrowers, often on multi-jurisdictional matters. Nick Padget now leads the team, while former practice head Madeleine Clark leads the banking practice. Padget primarily focuses on the investment and development financing of hotel, logistics and residential properties, and Clark has advised on matters involving retail, residential and hotel assets in both the UK and Western Europe. Clients include major clearing banks, investment banks and REITs.
Practice head(s):
Nick Padget
Other key lawyers:
Madeleine Clark
Testimonials
‘We have been hugely impressed by their experience, professional diligence and practical approach to commercial issues raised during lending cases. All staff are very approachable and maintain strong dialogue during the legal process – it’s as smooth and efficient as I have ever experienced. Their holistic approach to problem solving is refreshing and, allied to the depth of the team’s property law expertise, makes the complex very straightforward. They are very open and upfront on billing and never go over the clock without discussions and agreement, which is refreshing in the industry.’
‘We have a longstanding great working relationship with the partners and senior associates at OC. The team are very responsive and offer good value for money.’
‘Overall the team has morphed from completing a very large, complex real estate deal to being adviser of choice in regard to real estate and family office legal requirements in full. They are our planned legal partners for all future transactions.’
‘Value, clarity of understanding and ability to execute within tight timescales.’
‘Very collaborative and experienced team. Highly recommended.’
‘The key partner is Madeleine Clark. She has led by example and guided her team and co-teams in other jurisdictions to ensure we have the best seamless solutions for our transactions, which have not been easy. She has really showed her ability to stand by the client and help them move forward.’
‘Nick Padget is not just an experienced and capable real estate finance lawyer, he takes time to understand the client’s objective and always delivers a personal and bespoke outcome for the client, ensuring that complexity is simplified and all options are well considered and advised on. He is available whenever needed to provide his expert guidance when things aren’t on track. It is clear he inspires his team as all come with the same “can do” and “it’s personal” attitude, delivering well beyond expectations. From our perspective Nick and his team are an integral part of the transaction.’
Key clients
Topland Group
Investec Bank plc
ICG Longbow
Laxfield Capital
U and I Group plc
Oculus Real Estate
Patrizia AG
Edmond de Rothschild
Tunstall Real Estate
Mirastar/KKR
Work highlights
- Acted for Marchmont Investment Management on all aspects of a £9.7m loan to refinance the acquisition of three industrial properties, including warehouse accommodation at the Euro Court urban logistics park in Thurrock, Essex, and multi-let industrial estates at Crammond Park, Harlow, and Ivy Road, Aldershot.
- Acted for debt fund Laxfield LLP in connection with the £53.5m refinancing of Anthology’s residential schemes known as Deptford Foundry and Wembley Parade, which comprise 470 residential units in total.
Pinsent Masons LLP
The 'attentive, proactive and very approachable' real estate finance team at Pinsent Masons LLP is adept at acting for major lenders, and has acquired a particular strength in green development work. Its clients include the major UK clearing banks. William Oliver leads the team and 'takes a commercial approach' to acting for both borrowers and lenders, while Frances Mallender is skilled in large multi-bank real estate finance transactions, advising on senior debt, investment and development finance, and hotel, student accommodation and healthcare financings. Associate Lyndsey Mitchell is also a strong asset to the team.
Practice head(s):
William Oliver
Other key lawyers:
Frances Mallender; Lyndsey Mitchell
Testimonials
‘The team are very user friendly, drawing from a wide variety of expertise within the firm, with a lead partner always driving the process. They are strong in drawing from a wide pool of experience and identifying commercial and practical risk factors alongside legal advice. They are also very happy to pick up the phone and discuss key issues.’
‘They operate in an efficient and commercial manner to ensure appropriate outcomes for all parties. They understand the risk requirements that we operate to, ensuring we remain appropriately protected.’
‘I have found them to be very accommodating, knowledgeable and to have a very commercial outlook on the problems faced. They have a very mature approach to billing, seeing the long game rather than trying to recoup every last penny on individual deals.’
‘Very professional and knowledgeable, extremely efficient and deliver effective communications. They build great relationships with the client, leading to loyalty and longstanding relationships. Their fees are always reasonable.’
‘Attentive, proactive and very approachable. Will Oliver, Frances Mallender and Lyndsey Mitchell all stand out as assets to the firm.’
‘Lyndsey Mitchell provides a clear synopsis of issues to be dealt with and who is to deal with them as we go through a deal. This ensures that everyone is very clear as to how to proceed. Lyndsey has a very commercial approach to deals which is very welcoming.’
‘Our main partner is Will Oliver who always takes a commercial approach to requests received. He also ensures the appropriate team is assembled.’
Key clients
HSBC UK Bank plc
National Westminster Bank plc
AAReal Bank AG
National Bank of Kuwait
Homes England
RDI REIT PLC
Qatar National Bank
Wells Fargo
SACO Property Group
Sir Richard Sutton Limited
Hines
Lendlease
Emerites NBD Bank
Ardstone Capital
Work highlights
- Acting for a syndicate of banks which lends to London Square Developments Limited.
- Acting for the syndicate of banks which lends to Safestore Holdings plc.
Slaughter and May
Slaughter and May is strong in acting for borrowers which are active in the investment and development sectors. The residential property, logistics, hotels and student accommodation sectors are also areas of expertise for the firm. The 'incredibly knowledgeable' Matthew Tobin brings his experience as head of the firm's debt capital markets and sustainable finance practices to property finance transactions.
Practice head(s):
Matthew Tobin
Testimonials
‘Slaughter and May have always taken the time to understand our business and our needs. They have excellent resources and are always able to meet tight deadlines and resolve any complex issues.’
‘Matthew Tobin has always provided an exceptional service. Matthew is always available, thorough and incredibly knowledgeable. He understand our business and adds value to every transaction.’
Key clients
Barratt Developments
Countrywide
Derwent London
Elysian Residences
Harbour Castle
Halsbury Homes
Midlothian Capital Partners
Rightmove
SEGRO
Taylor Wimpey
Work highlights
- Advised Workspace Group PLC on the issuance of a debut sterling-denominated senior unsecured guaranteed green bond issuance in an aggregate principal amount of £300m and for a term of seven years.
- Advised a client in relation to the mezzanine financing to Bricks Capital in connection with the completion and fit out by Bricks of a hotel in at the Silverstone Grand Prix Park to be managed by Hilton Garden Inn.
- Advised Rightmove on its successful application to the Bank of England’s Covid Corporate Financing Facility.
Stephenson Harwood
The real estate finance team at Stephenson Harwood acts on investment and development financings for lenders and borrowers involving urban centres, logistics properties and overseas assets. The team is also active in the ESG arena. James Linforth leads the practice and advises both lenders and borrowers on acquisition financings in the UK and in other jurisdictions. Paul Hayward-Surry is active in the commercial real estate, housing, hotels and leisure sectors, and the 'very commercial' Jonathan Proctor is adept at investment and development financing transactions. Other notable team members include Jayesh Patel and George Vaughton, who has strengths in advising bank and non-bank lenders.
Practice head(s):
James Linforth
Other key lawyers:
Jayesh Patel; Paul Hayward-Surry; Jonathan Proctor; George Vaughton
Testimonials
‘Very good to work with on transactions, due to their experience and knowledge. Always ensure they explain the risk of accepting/rejecting points and provide their recommendation.’
‘Provide useful, relevant and pragmatic advice, based on experience and not just knowledge.’
‘Very professional and personable at the same time.’
‘Jon Proctor is adaptable to dealing with different types of customers. Always takes the time to talk points through and is very commercial. As well as giving his thoughts, he always comes up with solutions too.’
Key clients
Wells Fargo Bank N.A.
ING Bank N.V.
Canada Life
Barings Real Estate Advisers LLP
Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company
Schroders plc
Bank Leumi (UK) plc
Aver Property L.P.
The Royal Bank of Scotland plc
NatWest
Coutts
RBSI
Firethorn Trust
BACB plc
Mercia Real Estate
Work highlights
- Advised Wells Fargo on a £60m debt facility to Supermarket Income REIT plc.
- Advising Mass Mutual in relation to the financing by Hermes Wellington Place LP of Site 1, Wellington Place, Leeds, as part of a major regional development project.
- Advising Firethorn Trust on a series of financings totalling over £100m to acquire and develop logistics sites across the UK.
Alston & Bird LLP
Alston & Bird LLP has a particular focus on structured commercial real estate finance transactions, acting for domestic, Asian and US banks, debt funds, investors, facility agents and trustees. Practice head Andrew Petersen is active in real estate private equity and private debt matters and has been deeply involved with the team’s increasing ESG focus. James Spencer advises banks, debt funds and alternative lenders on commercial real estate whole loans and senior and mezzanine financings. The team was further strengthened when Phil Taylor joined in November 2020 from Sidley Austin LLP.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Petersen; Shanell Cramer
Other key lawyers:
James Spencer; Phil Taylor
Key clients
Invesco Asset Management Limited
Investec Bank PLC
Black Rock Financial Management
CBRE Loan Services Limited
Mount Street Mortgage Servicing Limited
Quadrant Real Estate Advisors
Wilmington Trust SP Services (London) Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for BlackRock as lender on the amend and restate of a real estate finance facility secured over a hotel in West London.
- Acted for Quadrant Real Estate Advisors LLC as mezzanine lender on a senior/mezzanine financing secured over a retail park in the north of England, which subsequently defaulted as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Acted for Wilmington Trust SP Services (London) Limited as security trustee on behalf of certain bondholders on a restructuring of a cover pool of Pfandbrief mortgage loans secured on portfolios of UK real estate.
Bird & Bird LLP
The 'very knowledgeable and commercial' real estate finance team at Bird & Bird LLP has a strong international presence with offices across Europe and Asia, and increasingly advises on inbound real estate investment. Financing date centres and handling work in the logistics sector are also strengths of the practice. The team was significantly bolstered by the arrival of new practice head James Salford, who joined the firm in February 2020 from Addleshaw Goddard and has extensive expertise in the hotel finance sector. Jonathan Baker is also a notable member of the team.
Practice head(s):
James Salford
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Baker
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable and commercial. Particular expertise in the hotel sector.’
‘James Salford is very good at breaking issues down and resolving them. Incredible breadth and depth of knowledge with real insight into the hotel sector.’
Key clients
Aareal Bank
Ahli United Bank (UK) PLC
Bank Leumi
Bank of Ireland
Bank of London and The Middle East plc
Ingenious Real Estate Finance
Gulf Islamic Investments LLC
National Bank of Kuwait (International) PLC
Precis Group
RO Group
Santander
Work highlights
- Acted for Aareal Bank on its first significant financing in the UK for a number of years, a £54m term facility to the Scape Student Accommodation.
- Acted for the Santander Hotel Finance team on the CLBILS financing of the Park Plaza Hotels Group.
- Acted for Mizrahi Tefahot on the development financing of an office building in Milton Keynes for a 200-unit residential scheme.
Brecher LLP
Brecher LLP has a specialism in advising lenders, developers and borrowers on residential and student accommodation developments. Richard Gilchrist leads the team, acting for banks and specialist lenders on their development finance transactions. Other key contacts are Redmond Byrne, who is also active primarily in residential development as well as acquisitions and disposals, and the 'very experienced' Charles Bezzant.
Practice head(s):
Richard Gilchrist
Other key lawyers:
Redmond Byrne; Charles Bezzant
Testimonials
‘Charles Bezzant is a very experienced property lawyer, who thoroughly understands the risks associated with development finance. He is able to provide clear and sensible advice.’
Key clients
Aura Finance
West One Loans
A.S.K. Partners Limited
Castle Trust Capital Plc
Close Brothers Limited
Downing LLP
Glenhawk Financial Services
Hampshire Trust Bank Plc
Heritable Development Finance Limited
Investec Bank Plc
Ironbridge Finance
Jordan International Bank plc
National Westminster Bank Plc
Masthaven Bank Limited
Paragon Development Finance Limited
Pluto Finance
Puma Property Finance
Shawbrook Bank Limited
United Trust Bank Limited
Urban Exposure Plc
Work highlights
- Acted for United Trust Bank on more than 50 development finance transactions throughout the year, with aggregate loan amounts exceeding £150m.
- Acting for United Trust Bank Limited on financing a corporate acquisition and the development financing of a residential scheme at Kew Bridge, London.
- Acted for Shawbrook Bank Limited on a significant number of both development finance and bridge finance loans over the year, including an £11.5m bridge facility secured on property adjoining the railway in Milton Keynes.
Burges Salmon LLP
Burges Salmon LLP's 'very experienced' real estate finance team operates from London and Bristol, predominantly acting for banks and, increasingly, alternative lenders in development and refinancing mandates. Practice co-head Paul Browne has substantial expertise in handling transactions involving hotels, student accommodation and healthcare facilities. Richard Leeming also leads the team and is active in representing clearing banks, investment banks, debt funds and private banks. Katie Allen and Sally Jupp are also of note.
Practice head(s):
Paul Browne; Richard Leeming
Other key lawyers:
Katie Allen; Sally Jupp
Testimonials
‘The team at Burges Salmon is very experienced, demonstrated by the variety and quality of deals they work on and the commercial approach taken in relation to the advice they give.’
‘Consistent and commercial and a pleasure to work with.’
‘They know their clients well and are a real pleasure to work with. I would particularly recommend Katie Allen and Richard Leeming.’
Key clients
Lloyds Banking Group
HSBC
The Royal Bank of Scotland plc
DRC Capital
Gravis Partners LLP
ICG Longbow
Metropolitan Life Insurance Company
National Westminster Bank
Bank Leumi UK Plc
Barratt Developments Plc
Kinetic Capital Limited
Heritage Square Limited
Puma Property Finance Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Kinetic Capital Limited on a £38m development facility to Jensco Nottingham Limited to fund a 550-room student accommodation block in Nottingham.
- Acted for Bank Leumi as lender on a £31m refinancing of three hotels in London and South Wales.
- Acted for National Westminster Bank as arranger and agent on a £21.6m real estate investment facility in respect of a portfolio of industrial properties located throughout London and the South East of England to an Isle of Man incorporated borrowing group.
Charles Russell Speechlys LLP
Charles Russell Speechlys LLP acts for banks, alternative lenders and borrowers, and is particularly strong in handling structured private wealth transactions. Paul Kay heads the 'extremely commercial' team, and is skilled in debt and equity financing, structured finance and asset-based lending, with experience in cross-border mandates. The 'always available' Jon Bond advises both lenders and borrowers on syndicated lending, acquisition and development finance, mezzanine finance and Sharia-compliant finance.
Practice head(s):
Paul Kay
Other key lawyers:
Jon Bond
Testimonials
‘Their ability to act in a collegial way to find solutions to complex real estate matters is second to none.’
‘Extremely commercial and give genuine opinions, rather than sitting on the fence.’
‘Very comprehensive and prompt advice and assistance. We have used CRS for a number of years and they understand our requirements and work very effectively with us.’
‘Jon Bond is always available to discuss and provide guidance on all matters related to real estate finance.’
Key clients
Lloyds Bank
Octopus Property
Exeter Property Group
Silbury Specialty Finance
London & Oxford Capital Markets
Puma Investments
EFG Private Bank
Rothschild Bank
Opera
The Rumi Foundation
Lombard North Central
Downing
Topland Jupiter Limited
Metro Bank
Country Court Care Homes Limited
Ekistics Property Advisors
Salamanca Group
Caring Homes Group
Northridge Capital
Work highlights
- Advised Silbury Specialty Finance on one of its first loans, which was to develop a retirement living scheme.
- Advising longstanding client Octopus Real Estate on over £75m of transactions during 2020.
- Advised London & Oxford Group on a number of property investment transactions and related financings, including City of London and Canary Wharf office acquisitions now in excess of £300m.
Clyde & Co LLP
Debt finance is a strength of the team at Clyde & Co LLP, in addition to Sharia-compliant property finance transactions. Chris Lenton leads the 'joined up, experienced and pragmatic' team, with expertise in advising on complex and mixed-use developments, especially for clients from the Middle East and Far East, and Adil Hussain leads the Islamic finance practice. Dean Gormley, who joined the firm in May 2020 from Irwin Mitchell, and Annabelle Redman are also notable team members.
Practice head(s):
Chris Lenton
Other key lawyers:
Adil Hussein; Dean Gormley; Annabelle Redman
Testimonials
‘Billing transparency and very competitive fee quotes notwithstanding high levels of partner engagement.’
‘The team is joined up, experienced and pragmatic. They have a sensible approach to fees and billings and are always committed to the wider, continuing relationship.’
‘Very professional, with excellent customer service and experience, good market knowledge and clear advice. They are also very forthcoming and willing to offer guidance for every step of the process, i.e. also at the general enquiry stage.’
‘Punch above their weight for their size and position in the market. Client-focused as they take the time to get to know their clients and tailor their approach accordingly. Reasoned and pragmatic advice, which is easy to digest. Responsive and efficient.’
‘Each member of the team faces challenges with good humour and patience. Nothing is too much trouble or effort. Dean Gormley on the banking side leads a team with cheer.’
‘Annabelle Redman is very knowledgeable and in my opinion on top of her field of expertise. She is my go-to person if I encounter unusual sets of circumstances or complex transactions. Response times are quick and she regularly goes the extra mile to provide a very good and personal service.’
Key clients
Regal London
Secure Trust Bank
Marcol Group
OakNorth Bank plc
Roundshield Partners
Freshwater Group
One 55 Fenchurch
Bank of London and the Middle East plc
ABC International Bank plc
Aldgate Developments
U+I Group plc
Lai Sun Developments Limited
Lendinvest
Urban&Civic
Montreaux Limited
British Arab Commercial Bank
New Era Developments
Urbo (West Bar) Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Regal WL Limited, as the borrower, in relation to a £118m funding from ICG Longbow to finance the development of 112 private residential flats and 170 social and affordable flats for Central and Cecil Housing Trust in St John’s Wood.
- Advising ABC International Bank plc regarding the financing of the Lancer Square mixed-used development, which includes 36 boutique apartments and penthouses in the Kensington Palace conservation area.
- Advising Urbo (West Bar) Limited on the financing aspects of the £300m West Bar Square scheme, a mixed-use development in Sheffield.
Collyer Bristow LLP
Collyer Bristow LLP is active in advising Far and Middle Eastern clients on London real estate finance transactions, as well as acting for borrowers and lenders regarding secured lending transactions and property developments. Michael Grace leads the team, while Alex O’Connor is skilled in advising on mixed-use developments and Rory Macpherson has expertise in the residential sector.
Practice head(s):
Michael Grace
Other key lawyers:
Alex O’Connor; Rory Macpherson
Testimonials
‘This team is well organised and responsive and covers the whole range of property issues.’
‘Exceptional personal service and out of hours contact when needed.’
Key clients
Arab National Bank
Bangkok Bank PCL
Hampden & Co. PLC
Handelsbanken PLC
Weatherbys Private Bank Limited
Aldersgate Investments Limited
Bewley Homes plc
Chase New Homes Ltd
Crest Nicholson plc
Ipsus Developments Ltd
Lochailort Investments Ltd
Willmott Dixon Holdings Ltd
Be Living Ltd
Work highlights
- Acting for Willmott Dixon on the funding, acquisition, development and sale of sites in Tower Hamlets, Reading, Sevenoaks and Cheshunt.
- Acting for an entity within the Ipsus Development wider group on a joint venture with a pension fund in connection with the acquisition, funding and development of a site in Caversham.
- Acting for Aberfeldy New Village LLP in connection with the continuing site assembly, funding, development and sales of phase 3 onwards at Aberfeldy New Village in East London.
Farrer & Co
Farrer & Co acts for a range of lenders and borrowers, providing 'trusted advice and sound reasoning' to UK clearing and private banks, high-net-worth individuals, property developers and educational institutions. Martin Blake leads the team, with substantial experience in commercial and residential property finance transactions and acquisition financing. Bethan Waters focuses on the banking side of transactions, while Marc Glancy has strengths in secured lending. Simon Graham is also a notable team member.
Practice head(s):
Martin Blake
Other key lawyers:
Bethan Waters; Marc Glancy; Simon Graham
Testimonials
‘They are a close-knit team who work very well together, providing trusted advice and sound reasoning. Their energy and collaboration remains fresh with every deal and their guidance is invaluable. Their key strength is working for the client, providing solutions to difficult scenarios and meeting time-critical deadlines.’
‘Farrer takes a pragmatic approach. The firm is good at providing the bank with regular updates and making helpful suggestions to enhance security and manage risk.’
‘A personal approach, and practical and commercial advice.’
‘Very knowledgeable team, easy to work with and committed.’
‘All the team deserve recognition. They always make themselves available and are quick to respond to enquiries. They are proactive in their approach and very personable to work with.’
‘The team works very well together. Key values include breadth of knowledge and responsiveness.’
‘Quick to understand the requirements and to find solutions to problems.’
Key clients
Royal Bank of Canada
C. Hoare & Co
Deutsche Bank
Lloyds Bank plc
Coutts & Co
Rothschild & Co
Triodos Bank UK Limited
Arbuthnot Latham & Co Ltd
OakNorth Bank
Secure Trust Bank
Work highlights
- Advising Coutts &Co on an amendment to an existing facility to a large rural estate in order to refinance its existing facility and to facilitate further general investment, and a new facility to a special purpose entity within the wider estate group structure to allow for refinancing of existing debt and to permit a large portion of estate land to be sold for a development of over 2,000 homes.
- Advising a major Swiss bank on the provision of a £36m loan facility to fund the development of a super-prime residential property in one of the most prestigious locations in Central London.
- Advised Deutsche Bank (Suisse) S.A. in relation to the refinancing of three cross-collateralised facilities totalling £27m in aggregate, provided to three separate BVI SPV borrowers and secured against a portfolio of prime Central London residential properties.
Freeths LLP
With 'great knowledge and commercial views', Freeths LLP acts for borrower investment and development companies, private equity and infrastructure funds, and lender clients. Debt financing for healthcare facilities, student accommodation, and mixed-use and residential development schemes is also a strength of the team. The 'brilliant' Richard Williams heads the practice, and has expertise in advising on the funding of residential development schemes. Chris Freeston has strengths in advising both lenders and borrowers and Ed Hall leads the team's public sector offering, acting for local authorities.
Practice head(s):
Richard Williams
Other key lawyers:
Chris Freeston; Ed Hall; Helen Jones
Testimonials
‘Excellent at progressing loan documentation. Great knowledge and commercial views. Overall, deals require less input from our side and transactions are more efficient.’
‘What makes this team unique is they combine expertise and knowledge with a great personal touch and really understand both their work and their clients. They are professional, completely tuned in to the client’s specific needs and always a pleasure to deal with.’
‘A key positive is that when an issue arises or a decision is required, they provide advice and guidance rather than simply requesting us as the client to make a decision. We receive the benefit of their knowledge and understanding of the sector and similar transactions.’
‘Richard Williams is a brilliant lawyer and is able to offer pragmatic and commercial solutions in order to ensure a successful transaction is achieved. He has grown his team and has gone from strength to strength, bringing in some high-profile clients for the firm over the last few years. Helen Jones is also a very capable and technically strong member of the team.’
‘Chris Freeston has a perfect balance of technical expertise and commercial acumen.’
‘I have worked with both Richard Williams and Ed Hall. Richard is an excellent lawyer but also very personable and down to earth and I can see why he wins and retains clients. Ed is easy to deal with and is a very good lawyer. They are both very good communicators.’
Key clients
Daiwa Capital Markets Europe Limited
CBRE Indirect Investment Services Limited
The Bank of London & The Middle East
LaSalle Investment Management
Santander UK plc
ICG-Longbow
Lloyds Banking Group
Clydesdale Bank
Patron Capital
HSBC
RBSi
Hamberley Developments
Amber Infrastructure
Work highlights
- Acting for the City North Finsbury Park joint venture in relation to its £100m debt funding arranged by LaSalle Investment Management in respect of the significant City North mixed-use development
- Acted for the borrower, Real Estate Investors plc, on a £51m refinance of its existing facility with NatWest.
- Advising the CBRE-managed North West Evergreen Fund in relation to a £10.75m loan made to InfraRed Capital Partners to complete its 172,000 sq ft Raven Locks speculative industrial scheme on brownfield land in Little Hulton, Salford.
Greenberg Traurig, LLP
Emma Menzies leads Greenberg Traurig, LLP's 'highly commercial' real estate finance team, which has grown considerably over the past two years from two to six partners. Partha Pal and Gary Bellingham are the team's core partners, handling mandates for real estate investors and debt funds. Pal has experience in acting for UK-based and European lenders and borrowers, while Bellingham focuses his practice on borrowers and asset classes such as office, retail, logistics, industrial and residential properties.
Practice head(s):
Emma Menzies
Other key lawyers:
Partha Pal; Gary Bellingham
Testimonials
‘Highly commercial and personable team.’
Key clients
Nuveen Real Estate
Europa Capital
Peel Logistics Partnership
Big City Holdings LLC
Fabrix Capital
Weerts Group
Oxford Technology Park
Proseed Capital
William Davies
Scape
Zenprop
Paloma
Work highlights
- Advised Nuveen Real Estate on the acquisition of CMBS issued to finance a portfolio of purpose-built student accommodation assets owned by Brookfield Investment Management.
- Represented the borrowers, Edmond de Rothschild Real Estate Investment Management and Tristan Capital Partners, in the financing of a £245m acquisition of a rarely available freehold Central London estate of 2.5 acres from Teddy Sagi’s LabTech.
- Advised Paloma on the corporate sale to Partners Group of a portfolio of 27 light industrial properties for £253m.
Katten
Katten's London real estate finance and lending team is part of a global network of offices, and thus is adept at handling transactions for clients based across the UK, the US and Asia. Kumar Tewari co-leads the team and is strong in acting for international emerging market lenders. Practice co-head Terry Green is deputy managing partner of the London office and advises on a range of asset classes, including hotel, retail and residential properties. Peter Englund is also a notable team member.
Practice head(s):
Kumar Tewari; Terry Green
Other key lawyers:
Peter Englund
Testimonials
‘The team is very efficient and keeps abreast of the latest developments in the market. They are able to explain legal matters and documentation in a simple and clear manner. Katten’s fee level is also competitive in the market.’
‘Kumar Tewari’s experience in the banking industry enables him to understand the challenges faced by the banks and provide practical solutions on these issues. He also has a great network in the banking and legal industry.’
Trowers & Hamlins LLP
Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s client roster includes both lenders and borrowers, and the team has an acknowledged expertise in social housing and public sector finance, in addition to advising on the healthcare, hotel, leisure and student accommodation asset classes. Adrian Carter leads the ‘agile, commercially savvy and responsive‘ team. Other key members of the practice include Eddie O’Hanrahan, who has strengths in development finance and transactions in the logistics sector, while Katharine Lewis advises banks and public sector bodies on traditional and Sharia-compliant transactions. Imogen Fisher is also noted for advising on funding for residential developments.
Practice head(s):
Adrian Carter
Other key lawyers:
Eddie O’Hanrahan; Katharine Lewis; Imogen Fisher; Chen Ikeogu
Testimonials
‘Excellent banking lawyers and true experts in the field of real estate finance given the firm’s unrivalled credentials in all things property. Trowers has real estate in its DNA and its banking and finance team reflects this. This is a real USP for us. Also, we find them more agile, commercially savvy and responsive than any of their competitors. Finally, they offer solutions and work shoulder to shoulder with us until a fix is found. They come off the fence and give seasoned strategic guidance rather than merely presenting lists of issues with oceans of options.’
‘One of Trowers’ strengths is that it provides a wide range of services that not all law firms can offer. It can give advice covering a diverse range of commercial activities and provides a joined-up approach. The expertise available in the firm means that advice is provided on a range of activities such as financing, development agreements, land acquisitions and grant agreements, with an approach that ensures that advice is given but the client still makes the decision.’
‘They are a cohesive and unified team and they have delivered significant support to us in a time when any finance or transaction was made difficult by the pandemic.’
‘High-quality, pragmatic and approachable team. Strength in depth within the team.’
‘Key staff are always available and easy to converse with as many have been with the firm for a number of years. Hard work, long hours, targets met and a touch of realism which is sometimes required in negotiations. Good technical knowledge is obviously a pre-requisite. Building a long-term relationship with the firm/staff is key and I have personally benefited from this over a number of years.’
‘Very quick, both in terms of getting the commercial drivers and the key elements of a given deal and also in terms of service delivery – turning in drafts, following up, expediting matters and making the deal happen without delay.’
‘Chen Ikeogu is a superb communicator, often dealing with complex matters, and provides advice which is clear and concise. Chen is extremely knowledgeable and provides advice which is easy to digest and interpret and implement.’
‘Chen Ikeogu is very experienced and provides an exemplary level of service to us in terms of both skill and dedication.’
Key clients
Apache Capital Partners
Vistry
Global Net Lease Inc.
Affordable Housing & Healthcare Group
Urban Logistics REIT PLC
Shawbrook Bank Limited
EcoWorld
Peabody Trust
Swanton Care & Community Limited
Audley Group
Work highlights
- Advised Urban Logistics REIT on the signing of a new £151m investment loan from Barclays, Santander and Lloyds for the purpose of driving future investment and the expansion of the AIM-listed industrial and logistics group.
- Advised Apache on an £88.5m debt facility from Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., London Branch and LaSalle Investment Management to finance a build-to-rent development in Scotland.
- Advised Audley Cobham Unit Trust on the £47.5m financing of the development of the Audley Fairmile village, an £80m scheme which will provide 74 high-quality retirement properties in Cobham, Surrey.
Blake Morgan LLP
Blake Morgan LLP is on a number of lending panels for clearing banks, investment banks, private banks and non-institutional financiers. The team handles development and agricultural finance and secured and portfolio lending, and has a developing Islamic finance offering thanks to legal director Sophie Shaladi's expertise in the area. Practice head Tony Coyne has strengths in acting for banks, public and private sector clients, and clients based in the Far East.
Practice head(s):
Tony Coyne
Other key lawyers:
Sophie Shaladi
Work highlights
- Acting for a client in a joint venture between a UK developer and an equity investor regarding the £55m refinancing of a site in London, which is being developed to provide over 140 new homes.
Cripps
With offices in Tunbridge Wells and London, the ‘strong‘ real estate finance team at Cripps advises traditional and alternative lenders on investment and development finance. The team is also skilled in handling structures involving offshore jurisdictions, Sharia-compliant finance and bridge financing. Ajoy Bose-Mallick heads the team and predominantly advises on residential and student accommodation properties.
Practice head(s):
Ajoy Bose-Mallick
Testimonials
‘Strong team with strong experience and good reactivity.’
‘Very knowledgeable, understand quickly the legal position of the client and have a good ability to suggest solutions.’
Key clients
Baylight
BRYDG Capital
Niveda Group
London Wall
Liberty Property Trust
Clydesdale Bank PLC
Santander
Handelsbanken
OakNorth Bank
Zorin Finance Limited
Hilltop Credit Partners
Work highlights
- Advising BRYDG Capital on £5m to £50m investment and development finance transactions involving residential, mixed-use and commercial real estate across the UK, many of which involve complex offshore structures.
- Advising landowner and developer Birchall Properties Limited on funding aspects of the Peak Resort scheme in Derbyshire.
- Advising Niveda Group on its investment and development finance requirements for student accommodation sites across the UK, with comprised deals valued at over £100m
Druces LLP
Highlighted for its 'depth of experience and legal creativity', Druces LLP advises on Sharia-compliant transactions and is also strong in handling mandates involving syndicated investment properties. Christopher Axford and senior associate Antony Cotton co-lead the real estate finance team; both are strong in the Islamic financing arena. Suzanne Middleton Lindsley is also a notable team member, acting for international banks, funds, syndicates and high-net-worth individuals.
Practice head(s):
Christopher Axford; Antony Cotton
Other key lawyers:
Suzanne Middleton Lindsley
Testimonials
‘What makes Druces LLP unique is their ability to provide a bespoke service tailored to each client. They really know how to make a client feel like they are their only client. Their sophistication, depth of experience and legal creativity – especially in the area of complex real estate transactions – is simply unrivalled. When there is an unprecedented situation alleged to be perilous, there is no better partner to have in the trenches than Druces.’
‘Suzanne Middleton Lindsley really stands out, as she has provided what is truly a partner-led service. She impressed me with her quick grasp of the very complex circumstances and her in-depth knowledge of how real estate should be structured really gave me great confidence. But it was also her friendly and supportive attitude, and readiness to take calls (or return them promptly if she was in court) which was very reassuring. I was delighted with the positive result of the transaction, and the speed and efficiency with which it was handled.’
Key clients
Bank of London and the Middle East Plc
Ratcliffes/Syndicates D&A
Kuflink Group plc
Alpha Property Lending
Denizbank AS
ICICI Bank UK PLC
Bank of China (UK) Ltd
Astute Capital plc
Propiteer Capital plc
Work highlights
- Advised Bank of London and the Middle East Plc on a Sharia-compliant loan facility for an investor-developer.
- Advised an international bank on the transition away from LIBOR across its whole suite of security documentation.
- Acted for an offshore investor in the refinancing of a £15m prime mixed-use development in the City of London.
DWF
'Responsive and forward looking', the real estate finance team at DWF is adept at acting for bank lenders and handling work including development finance and portfolio funding, with a particular focus on student accommodation and hotels. The team also benefits from the firm’s national presence. The 'excellent' Simon Elphick and Brendan Slack lead the practice, and Iain Shurwood and Stewart Anderson, who joined the firm from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP in April 2020, are also team members of note.
Practice head(s):
Simon Elphick; Brendan Slack
Other key lawyers:
Iain Shurwood; Stewart Anderson
Testimonials
‘Capable, engaging lawyers whose advice is received on time and budget.’
‘Responsive and forward looking.’
‘Longstanding and knowledgeable property team with wide market experience.’
‘Simon Elphick is personable and highly professional, providing straightforward advice on transactions and clearly articulating key risks.’
‘Simon Elphick is excellent in his field of property and construction. Highly capable, delivering clear, timely advice.’
‘Having worked with Simon Elphick for a number of years, he makes himself available when required to discuss issues and formulate solutions.’
‘Simon Elphick has a proactive approach to solving problems and shows attention to detail. He always keeps the client advised of the transaction status, bringing in additional resources and expertise as necessary.’
Key clients
NatWest Group
Santander UK
Lloyds Banking Group
Barclays
Fortwell Capital
Edwin Coe LLP
Edwin Coe LLP is strong in acting for banks on commercial, investment, development and residential financing mandates. Stephen Brower leads the team, with extensive experience of acting for high-net-worth individuals as well as banking clients, and 'always looks to come up with the most practical solution'. Dual qualified in England and Wales and Scotland, Joanne McIvor acts for for both English and Scottish lenders.
Practice head(s):
Stephen Brower
Other key lawyers:
Joanne McIvor
Testimonials
‘They have a breadth of experience across all aspects of construction finance and are not afraid to have the hard conversations to ensure things are set up in the correct manner.’
‘Stephen Brower is never fazed and always looks to come up with the most practical solution to ensure things are done with integrity.’
Key clients
Waterman Group
Havin Bank Ltd
Maybank Berhad
Riyad Bank
Handlesbanken
Hennessy Jones
Forsters LLP
The real estate finance team at Forsters LLP handles development financings, acting for traditional and challenger banks in the hotel, care home and purpose-built student accommodation sectors. Department head and 'excellent negotiator' Victoria Edwards is skilled in residential development mandates, as is Rowena Marshall, who was promoted to partner in April 2020. The 'commercially orientated' Simon Collins is also a notable team member who is adept at loan-on-loan transactions.
Practice head(s):
Victoria Edwards
Other key lawyers:
Simon Collins; Rowena Marshall
Testimonials
‘A very good professional team with understanding of both practical and technical matters.’
‘The team has provided us with consistently reliable legal advice over the years. The advice has always been clear and and the service has always been prompt.’
‘Simon Collins is commercially orientated, and his legal advice is clear and balanced. He has always been accessible and quick to respond.’
‘Victoria Edwards is an excellent negotiator and strongly supports her clients.’
Key clients
OakNorth Bank plc
Pluto Finance
Santander UK plc
Rothschild Bank
Savills Investment Management
J.P. Morgan International Bank Limited
United National Bank Limited
Secure Trust Bank
WMG
Fiera Real Estate
Q Investment Partners
The Clivedale Group
Knight Dragon
Work highlights
- Acted for Notting Hill Genesis on the disposal of a seven-acre mixed-use commercial retail and residential development site with planning for in excess of 1,000 residential units at Canada Water Dock, Southwark, to a German investor.
- Advised OakNorth on a bespoke debt finance package to a leading UK house builder to accelerate growth ambitions to build over 500 homes per annum over the next 36 months.
- Advising Manex Properties on a £49m loan to convert Drury House in London’s Covent Garden into a 141-bedroom Amano Covent Garden hotel.
Hamlins LLP
The real estate finance team at Hamlins LLP has a client roster including traditional banks, opportunistic funds, property companies, developers and family offices, with a focus on asset classes such as student accommodation, hotels and residential properties. Practice head Aselle Djumabaeva-Wood, who has 'impeccable business and professional acumen', is qualified in England and Wales and the CIS, and specialises in secured lending.
Practice head(s):
Aselle Djumabaeva-Wood
Other key lawyers:
Joseph Holder; Mark Hurst; John Leasure
Testimonials
‘The property finance team has excellent acumen, and is very responsive, cohesive and commercially oriented. I would strongly recommend them to clients and other colleagues in the banking industry with confidence.’
‘Hamlins are black and white – during lockdown we worked hard with all departments and it didn’t feel like anyone was working from home; deadlines were met, the usual out-of-hours calls made and everything ran like clockwork!’
‘I have worked with them for several years on the real estate and finance side, and always had great service. I have built good relationships and they are always happy to advise if needed and be proactive in their approach.’
‘Hamlins is a very knowledgeable firm. They are easy to communicate with and always recommend a good solution that balances both risks and customer requests.’
‘Aselle Djumabaeva-Wood has always been proactive and sought out issues that need to be solved and come to us with solutions not problems. A great person to work with and have on your side.’
‘Joseph Holder is commercial with me, we brainstorm and think outside the box, and he is blunt and insistent when I am wrong to make me realise it. This is how I like to work. Aselle Djumabaeva-Wood is a gem. She works all day and all night to meet deadlines, is always is fair on fees and really is an asset to my legal team and the firm.’
‘Aselle Djumabaeva-Wood is very accessible and communicates in a very straightforward way. Mark Hurst stands out for project management and oversight. John Leasure dovetailed effectively with Aselle to advise on property covenants.’
‘The team is helmed by Aselle Djumabaeva-Wood and under her guidance the only way for them is up! She is a well-rounded individual with impeccable business and professional acumen and a very calm spirit, who can solve the most difficult issues with the best possible outcome for everyone involved. She is very responsive, dilligent, down to earth and a great individual to be around and learn from. She has become a mentor not only to her team but also to her partners and clients, and the service she provides will always exceed your expectations. She builds and maintains life-long relationships due to the consistently outstanding service she provides.’
Key clients
Bangkok Bank PCL
Citrus Group
Palace Capital Plc
Pivot Lending Ltd
James Taylor Group
Trevali Mining Corporation
Shaviram Group
Work highlights
- Advised Trevali Mining Corporation on the English law elements of a second amended and restated credit agreement with a syndicate of existing lenders for a $150m first lien secured revolving credit facility and a $20m second lien secured facility agreement with Glencore Canada Corporation.
- Acted for a group of property investment and development companies owned by a high-net-worth family, completing 14 transactions undertaken over 12 months, including advice on bridging loans, investment loans and development loans in connection with the clients’ impressive property portfolio across England and Wales.
- Acting for a private equity investment group on a number of loans to refinance five properties in South East England.
Hill Dickinson LLP
Praised for its 'really wide knowledge of all aspects of property finance', Hill Dickinson LLP has a strong cross-border reach and acts for UK-based and international lenders - as well as an increasing number of borrowers - in the energy, logistics, transport, retail, healthcare, residential, financial services, hotel and leisure sectors. Practice head Jim Garton has particular expertise in development finance.
Practice head(s):
Jim Garton
Testimonials
‘The team have a really wide knowledge of all aspects of property finance and are able to cope with complex cases with ease and efficiency.’
‘Jim Garton leads the team well and in recent cases has gone the extra mile in terms of bottoming out the key risk issues on complex cases, which is greatly appreciated.’
Key clients
Paragon Development Finance Limited
Santander
Espalier Property Ventures
HSBC
Ingenious Real Estate
Wildhorn Investments Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for Paragon Development Finance on a flow of substantial, high-value development funding matters across the UK.
- Acting for Espalier Property Ventures in connection with its planned funding of a development at a key site near the Oval in London to provide a 142-room aparthotel as well as a new retail outlet and dedicated basement parking facility for Europcar rental vehicles, flats and office space.
- Advising NatWest on a range of property finance matters, with recent highlights including assisting the client with an £18.2m development facility for the redevelopment of a Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in the South of England.
Howard Kennedy LLP
Howard Kennedy LLP has 'a wealth of knowledge and expertise' in regional property finance matters, and advises developers, investors and lenders on senior and mezzanine debt and investment, development and bridging finance for commercial, residential and mixed-use properties. Following the departure of former practice head Daniel Fireman to gunnercooke LLP in April 2021, Steve Clinning leads the banking and real estate finance practice, Nada Jarnaz is head of the banking team, with expertise in Islamic finance, and Marcus Jamson leads the structured finance practice.
Practice head(s):
Steve Clinning; Nada Jarnaz; Marcus Jamson
Testimonials
‘They are incredibly responsive and will take the time to explain themselves on items which may be problematic. They are very experienced in what they do and this comes through in their approach. They also have teams across the firm they can call on for specific matters such as planning and banking.’
‘The firm is very strong in the real estate space generally, with an excellent bench in that area. Their team is client-focused and has a wealth of knowledge and expertise across all real estate sectors. Their practical and hands-on approach to transactions makes them a pleasure to work with, especially when it comes to the bridge lending work we do with the firm.’
‘The Howard Kennedy property finance team delivers a responsive, cost-effective and commercially focused service to us. I understand very well the client pressures that are placed on lawyers and law firms and Howard Kennedy are able to deal with those most effectively. The firm has provided us with commercially driven, clear and appropriate advice on a wide range of high-value, highly complex, multi-jurisdictional real estate funding matters over the past year. The advice has always been of top quality and first class. The firm understands how the client wants and needs to get from the start to the end of the transaction efficiently and smoothly, and deals with all issues in a calm and effective manner. I have very much enjoyed working with Howard Kennedy and hope that our relationship continues long into the future.’
‘The team do an outstanding job and always perform on time and within budget, which makes for an easy relationship and also makes life easy for us when handling client expectations. We can always get hold of the right people at the right time and are continually impressed with the speed at which work is turned around.’
‘Nada Jarnaz is extremely responsive and very practical. Nada is diligent, commercial and very user-friendly. She has excellent client-handling skills, coupled with a personal approach and the ability to manage complex property finance transactions. She is a delight and pleasure to deal with.’
‘Steve Clinning is a pleasure to work with. He is smart, proactive and very responsive, ensuring his transactions are completed in time and in good order. His experience as both a banker and a specialist in banking and finance law makes his advice invaluable to clients. I have also worked with Nada Jarnaz, who is very strong in real estate generally, including Islamic finance matters involving real estate. She is a thorough, creative and highly experienced commercial lawyer whom I would trust with any deal regardless of its complexity. I have consistently found her to be a strong performer, with a clear focus on getting the deals done for her clients.’
‘Steve Clinning’s knowledge in the property market is impeccable.’
Work highlights
- Acted for Octopus Real Estate in connection with a facility made available to the seller group to finance and develop the property at 310 Bermondsey and known as Bermondsey Yards.
- Advising City & Dockland in connection with the senior and mezzanine financing of two residential development sites in Scrub Lane.
- Acting for EEH Ventures in connection with the financing and development of a 227-unit scheme in Wembley.
K&L Gates LLP
K&L Gates LLP's 'user-friendly and well-coordinated' team handles structured real estate finance transactions and CMBS deals. With offices in the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Belgium, the firm is noted for its ability to complete deals with a cross-border element. Richard Hardwick leads the team, with expertise in development finance. 'Responsive, organised and knowledgeable' special counsel Michael Anderson is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Richard Hardwick
Other key lawyers:
Michael Anderson
Testimonials
‘The team are very user friendly and are well coordinated across the real estate and finance disciplines. Pragmatic solutions are forthcoming and the team is always switched on and helpful.’
‘Michael Anderson is very responsive, organised and knowledgeable. Mike is capable of quickly instilling confidence across complex subjects. Very reliable and nothing is too much trouble.’
Work highlights
- Acted for an international debt fund providing financing relating to the acquisition of a hotel in England, including a capex facility.
- Acted for an international debt fund providing financing relating to the acquisition of a block of 120 recently completed apartments in England.
- Acted for a foreign trust vehicle providing mezzanine financing relating to prime real estate in London.
Maples Teesdale LLP
Specialist real estate firm Maples Teesdale LLP has particular strength in investment and development finance mandates. The ‘forward-thinking‘ and ‘incredibly client-focused‘ team acts for both lenders and buyers across the UK, handling work in the retail, office, hotel, student accommodation and construction sectors. The team is led by Rohan Campbell.
Practice head(s):
Rohan Campbell
Testimonials
‘The advice is solution based, always finding ways to best protect the client. Forward thinking with excellent communication. Proactive.’
‘My experience in dealing with Maples Teesdale is that they are incredibly client focused, and that each matter is dealt with in a personable, professional and expedient manner.’
‘Maples Teesdale are a specialist property law firm based in the City. They have all the skills and experience that this implies. More than this though, they are exceptional in their level of dedication to their clients.’
‘Problem solving, communication and commercial judgement. Experts in the field.’
‘The individuals we have worked with at Maples Teesdale, from the partners downwards, have all been friendly and approachable, and extremely hardworking and dedicated.’
Key clients
AgFe
Bretby Business Park LP
Bywater Properties
Cheyne Capital
Deutsche Hypo
Greenergy International Limited
ICICI Bank UK Plc
Investec
Lloyds Banking Group
Martin’s Properties
Maslow Capital
Patrizia
Tristan Capital Partners
United Trust Bank
Work highlights
- Advised Deutsche Hypo on the amendment and restatement of a £40m senior facility and related inter-creditor arrangements in respect of the financing of a PRS development.
- Advised AgFe on a £50m accordion facility to a listed borrower group secured on a portfolio of residential assets.
- Advised Maslow Capital on deals for an aggregate value in excess of £75m.
Memery Crystal (part of RGB Legal Services)
The 'well-respected' team at Memery Crystal LLP acts for both lenders and borrowers, and has strengths in advising on debt-based transactions and development finance. The 'very experienced' Matthew Lindsay leads the team, with expertise in international private capital and a focus on assisting clients with strategic investment, acquisition and asset management matters.
Practice head(s):
Matthew Lindsay
Testimonials
‘Well respected in the sector with a good reputation among all parties – this ensures as a client that we are taken seriously and our legal adviser can fight our corner. Direct participation and process management by partners. Good teamwork and ensuring the right resources are brought in when needed.’
‘The very experienced Matthew Lindsay goes the extra mile to deliver an optimal outcome for clients and always makes time to communicate. Smart and very resourceful.’
Key clients
MBU Capital
Bowling Green Asset Management
Ashtrom Properties UK
ASK Partners
CPI Property Group
Zorin Finance
OakNorth Bank
Ziz Properties
Zenprop
EFG Bank
Z Hotels
Dandi Living
Luxgrove Capital Partners
Century Capital
DAO Estate
Work highlights
- Advising specialist independent property funder ASK Partners on a number of residential, commercial and mixed-use financings.
- Advising Ashtrom Properties UK in relation to the acquisition of No. 8 First Street – 170,000 sq ft of Grade A, BREEAM office space in Manchester.
- Advising Gage on a £15m loan from Hilltop Credit Partners for the acquisition and development of nine units within the reputable Taplow Riverside development by Berkeley Homes.
PwC LLP
Described as 'proactive and outstanding at problem solving', the real estate finance team at PwC LLP benefits from the firm's global presence, and advises a range of domestic and international borrowers, including privately owned businesses, family offices and high-net-worth individuals. In particular, the team is strong in advising on financing the acquisition and development of high-value residential property. The 'practical and commercial' Annalie Croney heads the practice.
Practice head(s):
Annalie Croney
Testimonials
‘They adopt a multi-disciplinary approach involving tax, property, regulatory and corporate law coupled with audit capabilities. This is a real strength that makes them somewhat unique. They are very proactive and outstanding at problem solving, and always ready to meet exacting timescales. Nothing is too much trouble. They have excellent document skills.’
‘Our principal contacts are Annalie Croney and Sophie Vann. Both adopt a proactive approach to problem solving, being adept at finding pragmatic solutions. It is commendable that over the last year their high level of service standards has been maintained notwithstanding the Covid 19 restrictions. The PwC team always meet exacting timescales, providing sound advice (using layman’s English) that is readily understandable.’
‘Excellent connectivity to their corporate team. Cross-practice work is seamless, and superior to other City firms.’
‘Annalie Croney has extensive knowledge of the real estate finance market, and always offers practical and commercial advice.’
Key clients
Lazari Investments Limited
Marshall Bridging
Emerald Fund S.C.A SICAV-FIS
Ashford Riverside Park Limited
GRE Assets Limited
Dooba Finance I Limited
Dooba Investments III Limited
KirkstallForge Properties I Limited
Dooba Developments Limited
Global Fixed Income Fund I Limited
Real Estate (RA) Global Opportunity Fund I Limited
Floreat Real Estate Limited
ASE Finance II Sarl
Anglo Scandinavian Estates 5 LLP
ASE II Globe Point Limited
ASE Finance 2 (3) Sarl
ChantryCo Investments Limited
ASE Temple Properties Limited
RAGOF (Colmore Row) Limited
Global Fixed Income Fund I Limited
Real Assets Global Opportunity Fund I Limited
SWI Kirkstall Limited,
Kirkstall Development I Limited
Kirkstall Development II Limited
Lazari Finance Limited
Lazari Finance 2 Limited
RAGOF (Dacre House) Limited
Dooba Finance AB and Dooba Finance (UK) Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Lazari Properties 3 Limited on its £400m new facility with Allianz Debt Fund SCSp SICAV-SIF, secured against five prime freehold central London offices.
- Advised various entities within the CEG-managed ASE II Fund on two separate new combined investment and development bank facilities with HSBC Bank PLC and Aviva Investors, which refinanced an existing facility with Santander UK PLC, raising over £100m of new debt and financing the developments of two sites in Leeds.
- Acted for Emerald Fund S.C.A SICAV-FI on substantial real estate finance transactions.
Shoosmiths LLP
Shoosmiths LLP acts for both lenders and borrowers, with clients including UK clearing banks, senior debt funds, mezzanine lenders, local authorities, investment funds, and alternative and bridging lenders. The team, which operates from offices in Manchester and London, is led by Liz Sweeney, who has extensive experience advising on capital structures. Other key contacts include Debra Cooper, who joined the team in June 2020 from Squire Patton Boggs, and Tim McNamara.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Debra Cooper; Tim McNamara; Barry Stimpson
Key clients
Select Property Group
Cinnamon Care Capital
DCP Group Companies
Hotel La Tour Limited
Moorfield Group Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Select Property Group on the structuring and financing of a development site.
- Acted for Cinnamon Care Capital and its subsidiaries in relation to a £12m loan facility provided by Fortwell Capital and its subsequent increase to £65m, in order to fund the acquisition and build out of a number of care home development schemes.
- Advised Hotel La Tour Limited on a £22m development financing provided by Coutts & Company for a new landmark hotel.
Teacher Stern LLP
The real estate finance team at Teacher Stern LLP provides a 'stellar service' to clients, advising both lenders and borrowers regarding bilateral and syndicated property financings, as well as large developments and property portfolios. The team is also active in Sharia-compliant transactions. Phil Berry heads the team, with strengths in the financing side of mandates, and Claire Gibson is also noted for her 'commercialism and dedication to her clients'.
Practice head(s):
Phil Berry
Other key lawyers:
Claire Gibson; Lorna Clarke; Heledd Jones
Testimonials
‘Very experienced and competent team. Always available and reactive. Knowledgeable and easy to work with.’
‘The real estate finance team offer a stellar service to their clients. The team are professional, personable, pragmatic and always a pleasure to deal with.’
‘Great team. Proactive and very knowledgeable.’
‘The Teacher Stern team is very approachable and collaborative with a cool, calm and commercial approach to complex transactions. It makes this team a pleasure to work with on either side of the transaction.’
‘Phil Berry, Lorna Clarke and Heledd Jones were all a pleasure to deal with. They were responsive and pragmatic and helped deal with complex issues in a measured way.’
‘I found Heledd Jones to be particularly helpful, and always willing to go the extra mile to get the deal done.’
‘Phil Berry brings his unparalleled experience to any transaction and understands what his clients need. Claire Gibson has a wealth of knowledge in her field; her commercialism and dedication to her clients sets her apart from others. Lorna Clarke and Heledd Jones are both great assets to the team and display the same great qualities as the partners heading the group.’
Key clients
Brydg Capital Limited
Emirates NBD Bank
Avamore Capital Limited
Burger & Lobster
Limecourt Finance & Investments
Century Capital
Property Finance Nominees
Englander Group
Kenfin Holdings Limited
Westcity Property Group
Elyseum Finance S.C.A.
BM Samuels
Vindex Property Limited
Park Lane Group Management Corporation
Work highlights
- Advised the lender, Brydg Capital Ltd, on an £18m facility agreement which included security over a property forming part of the Grosvenor Estate.
- Acted for the borrower, Silverstone Capital Management S.À.R.L., in connection with a $33.5m facility for the purpose of refinancing existing debt relating to the purchase of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Jerusalem.
- Advised the lender, Emirates NBD Bank, on lending to a company for the purposes of a refinance with security to be provided over a large portfolio of residential properties in Central London.
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
With experience in lender and borrower-side mandates, Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP has particular expertise in advising on development and investment loans secured against assets such as offices, leisure centres, student accommodation and PRS portfolios. The team also has strengths in regional property finance transactions, with offices nationwide. Charlie Reid heads the practice. Nicola Giddens and Will Fraser are also notable members of the team.
Practice head(s):
Charlie Reid
Other key lawyers:
Nicola Giddens; Will Fraser
Testimonials
‘Young and keen team. Very hands on.’
‘Charlie Reid and Will Fraser are very hands on, and nice guys with whom to work.’
Key clients
Lloyds Bank Plc
HSBC Bank Plc
Svenska Handelsbanken AB
Santander UK Plc
Akelius Residential Limited
Royal Bank of Scotland plc
National Westminster Bank plc
Union Bancaire Privee
Funding Circle
Castle Trust
Propfin
Moorfield
AG Quidnet
ICICI Bank UK plc
Investec
Hampden & Co plc
Apex Bridging
Work highlights
- Acting for a syndicate of banks on a £400m facility made available to property investment and development company Helical plc.
- Acting for Lloyds Bank Plc in relation to the £67m revolving credit facility available to Forelle Estates Limited and the bringing into charge of multiple assets.
- Acting for a syndicate of banks on a £200m facility made available to a national house.
Bates Wells
Alongside its core real estate finance offering, the team at Bates Wells has considerable expertise in acting for lenders in the charity and social enterprise sectors. Mark Traynor leads the team, which also includes Malcolm Headley and Patrick Keown.
Practice head(s):
Mark Traynor
Other key lawyers:
Malcolm Headley; Patrick Keown
Testimonials
‘We have been able to develop an excellent working relationship. The individuals we work with are very knowledgeable and experienced lawyers who have taken the time to understand our business.’
‘Well-structured team that highlights key risks and provides suggestions to mitigate them. There is a good understanding of our requirements – we rarely have to go back and ask follow-up questions or query what has been documented as it is clear and concise and in layman’s terms. The property team collaborates well with other teams such as banking and is very responsive.’
‘Very efficient service with very capable members of the real estate team able to advise on a range of property issues. Large firm expertise at a midsize firm.’
‘Bates Wells have a holistic approach to all issues, taking the time to consider the broader context and objectives. They provide a professional and knowledgeable service. On any matter we refer to Bates Wells they work collaboratively with our staff to tackle the problem, remaining focused on the central issues and working across specialisms as required. The real estate team have been tenacious in dealing with matters and have brought to bear significant expertise in the specific charity law requirements when it comes to the sale and mortgaging of property.’
‘An engaged and committed team with a good in-depth knowledge of property and finance matters, as well as factors relevant to certain specialist sectors – notably charity, healthcare and real estate. The team are responsive and strive to drive a transaction forward. They are always available and are sufficiently resourced that response times are quick.’
‘Malcolm Headley is sensible, doesn’t over or underplay issues and will help provide solutions rather than purely present problems.’
‘Patrick Keown and Malcolm Headley and the wider team have always proved to be knowledgeable, commercial and solution focused.’
Key clients
Architects Heritage Fund
Arbuthnot Latham
Big Issue Invest
The Charity Bank
Coutts
Handelsbanken
Lloyds
Metro
Santander
Reliance
Triodos
UTB
Shelter
People Potential Possibilities
UK Sailing Association
GMS Estates Limited
FM Conway
Work highlights
- Advising People Potential Possibilities on three facility agreements totalling £8m and a grant funding agreement worth £1.5m.
- Acting for Handelsbanken regarding a £20m facility being secured over various investment properties.
- Advising Metro Bank on a £9m advance to Glendower School Trust Limited to finance the acquisition and redevelopment of a property adjoining the existing Glendower school building.
Boodle Hatfield LLP
Boodle Hatfield LLP is active in hotel, residential and private rental developments, as well as Islamic financing, for its lender and borrower clients, including ultra-high-net-worth individuals, privately owned firms, private banks and wealth managers. Adam Chamberlain, who handles development finance across a range of asset classes, and Simon Williams co-lead the team. Rajeev Joshi is also a notable team member with strengths in the hotel sector.
Practice head(s):
Adam Chamberlain; Simon Williams
Other key lawyers:
Rajeev Joshi; Jonathan Hyndman
Testimonials
‘Boodle Hatfield is very synced up across the banking, property and construction teams which helps the process run incredibly smoothly from a client perspective. The partners are very hands on and involved which is brilliant when tackling complex structuring and due diligence issues. They have been particularly helpful in facilitating completions during remote working.’
‘I have worked with the Islamic finance, finance and real estate teams at Boodle Hatfield and have been impressed with their partner-led approach, responsiveness, client focus and collaboration/communication between teams.’
‘We put all our business through BH and have done for many years. An excellent team all round.’
‘Adam Chamberlain is client-focused and responsive.’
Key clients
A.S.K Partners
Crescendo Real Estate Debt Fund
Work highlights
- Acting for the lender, A.S.K. Partners, on multiple financings of UK real estate investment and development, senior and mezzanine loans, with typical loan sizes around £10m.
- Acting for the lender, Crescendo Real Estate, on acquisition financing for a site in South East England as a prelude to development financing in the context of the redevelopment of a residential-led, mixed-use scheme.
Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP
Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP's practice advises lenders and corporate clients on UK and pan-European real estate finance transactions across asset classes including hotels, commercial and residential properties, and healthcare and logistics centres. Practice head Duncan Hubbard is strong in handling cross-border investment and development portfolios.
Practice head(s):
Duncan Hubbard
Other key lawyers:
William Lo; Livia Li
Testimonials
‘Cadwalader has not only structured our whole transaction to a large extent, but also has organised the cooperation among the various law firms. During this transaction, a number of unexpected problems have arisen, which needed immediate attention and creative solutions. The Cadwalader team has managed all these challenges in a highly professional manner. As the transaction has become much more complex than expected, Cadwalader has been flexible with regard to billing.’
‘The property finance team is well known to us. They are quick in providing support.’
‘Duncan Hubbard has a quick and easy approach to solving conflicts. During ongoing and sometimes difficult negotiations, he is always a great support.’
‘Duncan Hubbard was the driving force of the deal. His professionalism, exceptional problem-solving skills and calmness proved to be very valuable. William Lo and Livia Li also contributed greatly to the success of the transaction. Duncan and William have always been available as reliable partners, acting quickly and proactively.’
Key clients
Civitas Social Housing Finance Company 5 Limited
Work highlights
- Acted as leading co-ordinating counsel in advising Civitas Social Housing Finance Company 5 Limited on its financing with M&G in respect of a portfolio of over 150 social housing properties located across the UK.
Glovers Solicitors LLP
Glovers Solicitors LLP predominantly acts for lenders on development finance and investment loans for residential and commercial property. Darran Smith leads the practice, with expertise in secured lending, development mandates and residential acquisitions. Liza Lam-Kee and Philip Mundy are also key members of the real estate finance team.
Practice head(s):
Darran Smith
Other key lawyers:
Liza Lam-Kee; Philip Mundy
Testimonials
‘They have built a strong rapport with their clients, respond promptly, and all case loads are overseen by a partner, regardless of the complexities. The team is very diverse and all employees (from trainee up to partner level) are very approachable. Glovers also have an agreed fee scale with us which allows us to quote fee amounts to clients with a level of certainty. To date, fees for works have never gone above the agreed fee scale.’
‘The property team at Glovers are very experienced and knowledgeable, so I am confident in the quality of the advice that they provide. The team are approachable and efficient and I regularly receive positive feedback from my client base with regard to their attentiveness and professionalism.’
‘Glovers provides excellent execution and delivers on time. During the pandemic they have continued to support us with a number of new deals.’
‘The team is extremely well versed in all aspects of secured lending property transactions. Service levels are high and the response times and overall efficiency on transactions is exceptional.’
‘Glovers have an experienced team, who are able to understand our requirements and assist us with making commercial judgements.’
‘Liza Lam-Kee is our key contact at the firm and handles the majority of our transactions. Liza is organised and diligent and leaves no stone unturned in making sure that the security we have asked her to put in place is robust and all key aspect of the transaction have been thoroughly examined.’
‘Philip Mundy is always professional and goes the extra mile.’
‘People such as Liza Lam-Kee and Darran Smith are always willing to help, even on cases that have not been sent to them direct.’
Key clients
Butterfield Bank (Guernsey) Limited
Commercial Acceptances Limited
Close Brothers Limited
Hampshire Trust Bank plc
Heritable Development Finance Limited
Investec Bank plc
Royal Bank of Canada Trustees Limited
Strata Residential Finance plc
United Trust Bank Limited
Lendinvest Limited
Shawbrook Bank Limited
Hilltop Credit Partners Limited
Investec Bank (Channel Islands) Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Shawbrook Bank Limited on three separate loans with an aggregate loan value of £18m to the Mizen Group to fund the acquisition and development of three new residential and mixed-use sites in Greater London.
- Acted for Hilltop Credit Partners in setting up its banking documents and assisting on its first development loan of circa £2m in relation to a 16-unit development at Prospect House, Hexham.
- Advised United Trust Bank Limited in connection with a £4m development loan to James Taylor Homes as part of a joint venture with Housing Growth Partnership, a social impact investor backed by Lloyds Bank and Homes England.
GSC Solicitors LLP
GSC Solicitors LLP's real estate finance team acts for domestic and international high-net-worth individuals and clients in the retail, hospitality and care home sectors. Peter Belcher leads the team, with skills in handling acquisition and development finance mandates, while Matthew Phillips is adept at matters involving commercial property.
Practice head(s):
Peter Belcher
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Phillips
Testimonials
‘Competent and very easy to talk to.’
Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP
Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP is adept at advising on offshore corporate structures and mezzanine and Islamic finance, with a growing client base in the East Asian market. Practice co-head John O’Callaghan is skilled in advising on commercial developments, while co-head Paul Cain is strong in bridging finance. Other recommended lawyers include Sarah Hung, who is active in investment and development transactions, and associate Simon Lawrence, who has experience in the hotel sector.
Practice head(s):
John O’Callaghan; Paul Cain
Other key lawyers:
Sarah Hung; Simon Lawrence
Testimonials
‘Excellent service, never a stupid question and focused on problem solving.’
Key clients
Octane Property Finance Limited
Cranfield Investments Limited
OneSavings Bank Plc
RGL Services Ltd
Glasshouse Asset Management
Dominvs Property Developments Limited
Keystone Holdings Limited
Ganco Holdings Limited
ILM Capital
Work highlights
- Acting for an offshore developer client on a 32-property, £30m portfolio refinance consisting mainly of Central London commercial and mixed-use properties.
- Acting for a developer in relation to the refinancing a £20m portfolio consisting of 27 residential properties which are being converted into houses of multiple occupation under permitted development.
- Acted for Octane Property Finance Limited on over 100 matters for the client, with a total loan value of at least £80m.
Rosling King
Rosling King LLP acts for both borrowers and lenders, including private banks, debt funds, commercial lenders, investors and developers. The firm’s overseas connections also enable the team to successfully undertake cross-border mandates. The team is adept at handling the refinancing of residential, commercial and hotel properties. Consultant Simon Geoghegan is a key contact.
Practice head(s):
Simon Geoghegan
Testimonials
‘They work closely with us, manage the transactions efficiently and keep us updated. Where problems arise they give us options and recommendations.’
‘Rosling King has been a great additional to our panel. We work with very experienced lawyers at reasonable fee levels. The individuals we work with are very helpful, flexible and responsive.’
‘We have always valued the team’s collaborative and transparent approach. They are clear upfront about work and cost involved, and always work to find solutions to issues rather than provide boiler-plate advice. They also show consistency in the team allocated to provide the work versus the pitch process and always stick to their quote. If additional work is involved then they are upfront about why and work with us to find a solution.’
‘This really is a team with some depth. Lawyers at all levels have a good fundamental understanding of what the client is looking for. We have always been impressed that there seems to be an excellent team spirit among those we have engaged within RK.’
‘The team at Rosling King have an incredible attention to detail and are able to advise us on a number of complex transactions. Simon Geoghegan and his team continue to have a hands-on approach when instructed and provide peace of mind for me.’
‘Having worked with Rosling King for five years, I have found their approach to business collaborative and refreshing. They are incredibly adaptable, working on a number of key initiatives for us and allocating the appropriate skilled resource when needed, often at short notice with tight deadlines.’
‘Simon Geoghegan is a hands-on partner who leads from the front. He is only ever a short call away from being a sounding board for complex transactions. He is honest with turnaround times which makes our life a lot easier when it comes to managing client expectations.’
Key clients
Cynergy Bank
Ingenious Group
M7 – Tunstall Real Estate
Iesis Group/Regen Developments
Mizen Developments
Arbuthnot Latham
Handelsbanken
Alpha Bank
EFG Private Bank
Shakespeare Martineau LLP
Shakespeare Martineau LLP is strong in Islamic financing matters, having set up numerous Islamic banking offerings for its clients. Mohammed Saqub, who is based in London and Birmingham, founded and now leads the practice, with a strong focus on Islamic finance as well as commercial and residential investment and development financings. Legal director Andrew Stevens is also a key member of the team.
Practice head(s):
Mohammed Saqub
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Stevens
Key clients
A.I.B. Group (UK) Plc
Santander UK Plc
Shawbrook Bank
The Charity Bank Limited
Al Rayan Bank Plc
Habib Bank AG Zurich
Handelsbanken
Leumi ABL
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC
Punjab National Bank
OFFA
Work highlights
- Assisted a UK subsidiary of a foreign bank with setting up an Islamic finance practice.
- Acted for clients in completing over £500m-worth of Islamic finance transactions.
- Advised a multinational development bank based in Saudi Arabia on its first UK real estate investment.
Thomson Snell & Passmore
Based in Tunbridge Wells, Thomson Snell & Passmore's property finance team has a strong regional and London presence, predominantly advising senior debt lenders on acquisition and development finance and loan restructurings. Practice head Richard Ellard and Matthew Grogan are notable team members.
Practice head(s):
Richard Ellard
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Grogan
Testimonials
‘We have an excellent relationship with the team. They are all extremely professional and have coped really well during Covid. Service hasn’t suffered and their advice to us is extremely beneficial. Thomson Snell & Passmore have equally provided training support which has been fantastic.’
‘The structured finance team work collaboratively to ensure a smooth process from start to finish. Each team member is capable of picking up and running with any transaction and pleasingly there are no nasty surprises with the final bill.’
‘The team we deal with are helpful and efficient. They talk in plain English and are always willing to assist.’
‘Matthew Grogan has a very good handle on all of our cases, and is well supported by the rest of the structured finance team. They have a can-do attitude and are always proactive to ensure each case is completed within the designated time frame.’
‘Matthew Grogan is our main partner and contact. He is readily available, very knowledgeable and helpful. He gives clear and concise advice, and can be commercial when the situation allows. I really enjoy working with Matt, as do a number of my colleagues.’
Key clients
Close Brothers Limited
Paragon Development Finance Limited
Commercial Acceptances Limited
D&B Lending Designated Activity Company
Aldermore Bank plc
The Charity Bank Limited
Keystone Property Finance Limited
Lendinvest Security Trustees Limited
Handelsbanken plc
Lloyds Bank plc
Work highlights
- Continuing to advise Close Brothers Limited on various loan facilities.
- Advising Paragon Development Finance Limited on all aspects of its real estate finance transactions, including the preparation and negotiation of loan documents.
- Advising Commercial Acceptances Limited regarding its short-term debt for investment and development projects throughout the UK.
Watson Farley & Williams LLP
Watson Farley & Williams LLP is adept at advising lenders and investors on real estate financing across a range of asset classes, including hotels, residential and mixed-use properties, care homes and student accommodation. Richard Hughes, who joined the firm from Pinsent Masons LLP in June 2020, heads the team after the departure of former practice head Ranjeev Kumar to TLT in March 2021.
Practice head(s):
Richard Hughes