Firms To Watch: Property finance

Gregory Palos leads the real estate finance practice at Lawrence Stephens solicitors alongside banking head Steven Bernstein, and the team advises lenders, especially challenger banks, with expertise in bridging finance.
James Dakin leads the team at the boutique commercial real estate firm Newmanor Law, which was established in 2018, and acts for alternative lenders and challenger banks in the development finance space.

Firms in the Spotlight Property finance

Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP

Ronald Fletcher Baker attracts a diverse client base from financial institutions, high-net-worth individuals and substantial freehold corporate investors, as a result of which the firm has considerable expertise acting for corporate investors based in the BVI, Bahamas, Mauritius, Seychelles, Turkey and Isle of Man. This department also acts for sellers and buyers, and buy-to-let investors, …

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Property finance in London

Allen & Overy LLP

The sizeable team at Allen & Overy LLP is ‘unrivalled in real estate finance‘ and highly adept at handling the entire spectrum of debt products for sponsors and lenders, including investment and development, syndicated loans, mezzanine loans, preferred equity and structured finance. A large volume of its work is cross-border in nature, with European development finance mandates and portfolio transactions being key strengths. Its clients roster includes investment banks, German mortgage banks, insurance companies, retail and commercial banks, real estate debt funds, US mortgage REITS and Sovereign Wealth Funds. The ‘exceptional’ Mark Manson-Bahr is head of the global real estate finance practice, and is extremely skilled at handling both European and UK-based transactions for a range of banks and private equity funds. Simon Roberts acts for both banks and borrowers, with expertise in advising banks on large-scale real estate loan portfolio transactions. David Oppenheimer has a ‘wealth of experience‘ and a thriving pan-European practice, and Peter Mailer is also recognised as an asset to the team. David Varne was promoted to partner in May 2021.

Practice head(s):

Mark Manson-Bahr

Testimonials

‘Strong team in terms of size, capability and experience. Also very commercial and a likeable team. Work well with other European teams and provide a seamless solution for pan-European deals. They consistently deliver and have the capacity to do whatever you send to them.’

‘A&O are unrivalled in real estate finance – they are the absolute top. Their geographical reach is backed up by big hitting partners in every jurisdiction and in every supporting business line and their client roster is beyond impressive – on the Sponsor and the Lender side.’

‘A&O’s associates are technically excellent, commercially astute and with an eagerness to get deals done. You absolute get what you pay for with them – they get deals done correctly, commercially and promptly and are always there to support your business.’

Clifford Chance LLP

Clifford Chance LLP’s thriving real estate finance group advises a wide range of clients, including lenders, sponsors, investors and borrowers, on large and complex UK-based and cross-border real estate transactions. Barry O’Shea leads the team and has a thriving pan-European practice, advising both lenders and borrowers on restructurings, acquisitions and structured debt. ‘Seasoned partner‘ Andrew Carnegie has expertise in real estate finance and arrangements, insolvency matters, structured finance and securitisation, especially regarding cross-border work and hotel assets. Praised as ‘fantastic’, Emma Matebalavu sits as co-head of the firm’s global financial market group and is experienced in UK and European financing, including CRE loan portfolio sales and loan on loan financings, and commercial mortgage-backed security (CMBS) transactions. Laura Smallcombe is especially strong in handling structured real estate debt products, and Claire Fawcett, who was promoted to partner in May 2022, acts for both sponsors and lenders across a range of real estate financial transactions. Will Sutton joined the team from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in January 2022, whilst Jane Cheong Tung Sing has taken up a general counsel role.

Practice head(s):

Barry O’Shea

Testimonials

‘The full service offering is very attractive.’

‘They can help you originate, repack, warehouse, repo or securitise and the different teams and jurisdictions work well together. Technically excellent.’

‘Impressive knowledgeable and strong team that produce good work product and are well informed with respect to the market.’

‘Andrew Carnegie is a seasoned partner with a wealth of experience. He can give you the steer you need on where the market is, was and where it should be.’

‘Laura Smallcombe has an amazing career ahead of her. She is technically excellent, organised and a pleasure to deal with.’

‘Barry O’Shea is a go-to partner for every deal. He is commercial and solution-oriented, and transactions are truly in safe hands with him’

‘Emma Matebalavu is fantastic: she knows the market, the participants, has unparalleled legal skills and is also a lovely person.’

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 Goldman Sachs on the financing Apollo’s acquisition from Enpam of a portfolio of properties, including office, housing, hospitality and logistics principally located in the Rome, Lombardy and Milan regions of Italy.    
  • Advised Deutsche Bank AG on Sage AR Funding 2021 PLC.
  • Acted for the borrower on a hybrid real estate and whole business financing secured on data centres in the UK.

Ashurst

Ashurst is praised for having ‘good expertise across all facets of real estate financings’, and the team handles a very broad range of asset classes, including data centres, science parks, retail, residential, student accommodation, hotel and industrial properties. Multi-jurisdictional transactions are within the group’s strong capabilities due to the firm’s presence across Europe, especially regarding development finance, derivative financing, and loan on loan mandates for both lenders and borrowers. Ruth Harris and Sarah Watkinson jointly lead the team; Harris stepped down from her role as managing partner, but is still very active in advising debt funds, life funds and banks, as well as borrowers, and Watkinson has expertise in development and structured finance, hybrid financing and overseas investment transactions. Senior associates Sarah Winter, Kate Davies and Stuart Blacklock are also of note. Jessica Jenner joined Linklaters in June 2022.

Practice head(s):

Ruth HarrisSarah Watkinson

Testimonials

‘Ashurst’s Property Finance practise provides deep sector and technical knowledge, as well as a focus on the client’s needs and expectations. There is a focus on being able to reach the right person, provide the appropriate advice and collaborate across functions where appropriate.’

‘Well coordinated REF team including support functions. Very responsive and demonstrate good commercial nous with a broad range of sector experience.’

‘The real strength of the team lies with the quality of its two leading senior associates, Sarah Winter and Stuart Blacklock. They will move heaven and earth to deliver your trade and are able to draw on a wealth of knowledge in the sector.’

Key clients

Aviva

Banco de Sabadell S.A

Barings Asset Management

Blackrock

Cain International

Hines

ING Bank

Lendlease

M&G

NatWest

OakNorth Bank

Oxford Cranebank Limited

Oxford Properties

Oxford Victoria House Limited

Patrizia

Santander

Security Benefit Life Insurance Company

Work highlights

  • Advised Credit Suisse in relation to a debt financing facility, made available by Carval, to Laurence Kirschel’s Consolidated Developments for the St Giles Circus project in London’s West End.
  • Advises Cain International in connection with a development loan advanced to a joint venture between Ballymore and Oxley for the delivery of Deanston Wharf, a 768-unit residential scheme in the Royal Docks, east London.
  • Advised Oxford Properties in connection with the financing of the bellwether life sciences £429m acquisition of the iconic grade II listed property known as Victoria House in Bloomsbury.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

The real estate finance group at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner handles high-profile and complex work, and is aided by the firm’s strong planning and construction departments, as well as its Manchester and Southampton offices. At the helm of the department is ‘stand-out partner‘ Naveen Vijh, who is highly adept at acting for a wide range of clients, including banks, financial institutions, and corporate and public borrowers on acquisition, development and structured finance mandates. Claire Watson acts across the credit spectrum, handling senior and mezzanine debt, investment and development finance, and restructuring and distressed debt transactions. She also has particular strengths in the student accommodation arena. Other notable names include Gordon McMillan, who has a strong focus on debt financings secured on real estate in the UK and Europe, advising both lenders and sponsors, and Payam Yoseflavi, who is experienced in handling the financing of a range of assets, including offices, residential developments, hotels, logistics, retirement living and retail, as well as conducting islamic finance transactions. Daniyal Ansari joined Greenberg Traurig, LLP in March 2022.

Practice head(s):

Naveen Vijh

Testimonials

‘BCLP’s technical knowledge and speed of execution is second to none.’

‘Great team who are pleasant to work with and always go the extra mile to get the job done.’

‘The team is phenomenal: it has been exceptionally responsive, capable, commercial minded and provided value-add services.’

‘Payam Yoseflavi and his team’s are always on hand to deal with queries and every financing secured has felt like a team collaboration rather than a contractual obligation.’

‘Naveen Vijh is a stand-out partner. Market leading in his experience and technical knowledge, but also it terms of the personality and tenacity he brings to all transactions.’

‘Payam Yoseflavi has been a great resource for intel and market knowledge. His subtle yet simple approach to problems allows us as the client to feel that he is always on top of any issues.’

‘Payam Yoseflavi is knowledgeable, professional, super-attentive, happy to provide his opinion and guidance, pragmatic and calm – a pleasure to work with.’

‘Claire Watson is a very experienced, capable, approachable and responsible finance lawyer. She is trust-worthy, always provides valuable advise, she drives the deal, and is always committed to getting the deal down in an organised fashion. Her response has always been accurate, concise and spot-on.’

Key clients

National Westminster Bank

Tristan Capital Partners

The Carlyle Group

Northwood Investors

Argent

Cheyne Capital Management

Regent’s Crescent Property Group

LaSalle Investment Management

Barclays Bank

Ares Management Corporation

Work highlights

  • Advising King’s Cross Central on all financings across the King’s Cross Estate.
  • Advising the Carlyle Group on the formation of its UK logistics platform and the £158m of the JV’s acquisition of three portfolios of UK logistics assets.
  • Advising Tristan Capital Partners on the £86.8m refinancing of its acquisition of Reading International Business Park, the financing of a £140m development project in Bristol and the £44m acquisition financing of The Fort Shopping Park in Birmingham.

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher

The ‘incredibly knowledgeable‘ team at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher represents investors and lenders, especially from the US, in European real estate finance transactions, including loan portfolio acquisitions and distressed asset mandates. Alan Samson co-chairs the firm’s global real estate practice, and he supports clients on corporate and investment property acquisitions and disposals, acquisition financing matters and joint ventures. The ‘brilliant’ Robert Carr acts for investment banks, private equity funds and other alternative lenders and has particular expertise in representing private equity sponsors on borrowing transactions, as well as loan originations, debt trades and restructurings. Ben Myers is also a notable name, alongside English, Irish and New York qualified lawyer Greg Campbell.

Practice head(s):

Alan Samson

Testimonials

‘The team is incredibly knowledgeable on the current state of the real estate finance market.’

‘They always offer creative and commercial solutions to complex problems that arise on complicated projects.

‘Especially in the development context, the team has done a phenomenal job helping to craft structures that work for the Lenders and Borrowers.’

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

Investcorp Bank B.S.C.

KKR

Meadow Partners

Nuveen Real Estate

Oaktree Capital Management

Realty Income Corporation

Related Companies

Sofidy

Tishman Speyer

Welltower

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

The well-established real estate finance team at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is highly adept at handling ‘the most complex of deals’ across the UK and Europe involving restructurings, investments and insolvencies. The reputable Simon Chadney leads the department and advises borrowers, lenders and other creditors on secured and unsecured lending transactions, debt restructurings and insolvencies. Gary Hommell is managing partner of the firm’s UK, US and European finance practice. The ‘incredibly smart‘ Chris Mann is also notable for his work on senior and mezzanine financings.

Practice head(s):

Simon Chadney

Other key lawyers:

Gary HommellChris Mann

Testimonials

‘HSF are trusted advisors.’

‘The cohesiveness between the Finance team and Property team is incredible and help makes transactions seamless in that regard.’

‘HSF can handle the most complex of deals incredibly well and help to simplify complicated legal concepts into digestible decisions.’

Key clients

China Citic Bank

The British Land Company

JP Morgan Asset Management

Deutsche Bank AG

Capital & Counties

Morgan Stanley

Cerberus

DekaBank

Societe Generale

Deutsche Pfandbriefbank

BNPP

Ballymore

United Overseas Bank

Hammerson

Cain International

Brookfield

St Michaels UK Propco Limited

Starwood Property Trust Inc

Macquarie

Nuveen Asset Management

Almacantar

AusSuper

Work highlights

  • Advised lead arrangers on their £480m development financing of CC Land and R&F Properties residential led development at Nine Elms, London.
  • Advised Starwood as lender on its £365m development financing of Get Living’s Elephant and Castle build to rent development.
  • Advised British Land and GIC’s Broadgate JV on the £420m five year Green Loan refinancing of 100 Liverpool Street.

Hogan Lovells International LLP

Hogan Lovells International LLP boasts ‘one of the most talented real estate finance teams‘ in London, and has a well-established, broad client base consisting of private equity and debt funds, banks, listed property companies, family offices, and entrepreneurs. The team adeptly handles restructurings, loan-on-loan matters, loan purchases, development finance and acquisition finance mandates domestically and across Europe. Andrew Flemming heads the team and is praised as ‘an outstanding business partner‘; Flemming acts for both borrowers and lenders, and especially new market entrants. The firm is also home to Jo Solomon, who acts for institutional investors and private equity funds on development finance matters, and Katie Gill, who’s practice has an emphasis on acquisition and cross-border finance.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Flemming

Other key lawyers:

Jo SolomonKatie Gill

Testimonials

‘One of the most talented real estate finance teams in the market offering the widest and deepest skill sets.’

‘Simply one of the best teams to work with.’

‘Andrew Flemming, an outstanding business partner, has a rare and instinctive talent for getting transactions done by understanding the commercial imperatives on all sides.’

Key clients

HSBC

Hines European Core Fund

Citi

JP Morgan

DRC Capital

Kingdom Holding Company and 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 Brent Cross South which is 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.
  • Advising Standard Chartered Bank on the financing of a cross-border logistics portfolio located in Poland, Germany, France and the Netherlands.
  • Advising ICG on the development financing of 3 hotels at Manchester Airport by way of two cross-collateralised facilities.

Jones Day

Andrew Barker chairs the real estate finance practice at Jones Day with a thriving practice, supporting senior and mezzanine lenders, as well as equity investors. The wider team is highly adept at handling complex London-based development projects, and large scale domestic and pan-European disposals and acquisitions, advising global financial institutions, issuers, borrowers, funds, and asset managers. Fund and mezzanine financings are also particular areas of strength for the group. Emily Stew handles domestic and cross-border real estate finance transactions, representing private equity funds, alternative capital providers and corporate borrowers. Luke Johnson and Matt Trafford are also notable team members.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Barker

Other key lawyers:

Emily StewLuke JohnsonMatt Trafford

Testimonials

‘Experience and sector wide knowledge is impressive, even in emerging market opportunities.’

‘Accessible, practical and knowledgeable team.’

‘Borrower-side sponsors and advisers like and respect their approach and style of engagement.’

‘Exceptional service – very commercial partners and quick turnaround.’

‘The team is efficient, professional, detail oriented, and customer-service oriented, with strong knowledge of the market.’

‘They tailor work to the client and are strong negotiators with commercial perspectives.’

Key clients

Goldman Sachs

Blackstone

Wells Fargo

Delancey

Greystar

LaSalle

Morgan Stanley

Bank of America

Deutsche Bank

Royal Bank of Canada

ARA

Lonestar

Santander

Pictet

CBRE

Cain International

Kirkland & Ellis International LLP

Kirkland & Ellis International LLP has gained a reputation for supporting private equity firms on their real estate finance transactions, from acquisitions and developments to restructurings and disposals across a wide range of asset classes, including data centres, healthcare, logistics, hotels and leisure, office, residential, and student accommodation. The ‘highly knowledgeable‘ Jonathan Birks leads the team with a strong practice, advising private equity and credit fund clients on restructurings, distressed investing and loan origination. Kazik Michalski also has a thriving practice for private equity clients and skilfully handles cross-border mandates. Usman Khan joined the firm from Paul Hastings LLP in September 2021.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Birks

Other key lawyers:

Kazik MichalskiUsman Khan

Testimonials

‘The Kirkland & Ellis team provide invaluable support.’

‘The team are hands on, commercial and able to marry both great attention to detail and an ability to distil key points to non-legal minds.’

‘Well connected team that work cohesively within and across deals.’

‘Highly commercial and enjoyable to work with!’

‘Jonny Birks is highly knowledgeable, skilled, commercial, proactive, pragmatic and fun.’

‘Kazik Michalski is disciplined, calm and motivated with a can-do attitude.’

‘Jonny Birks has been an exceptional support to clients’ businesses, providing both legal and commercial advice. He is always on hand and available, impeccably committed and ready and able to cover the detail and stand back and appreciate the bigger picture.’

Key clients

LaSalle Investment Management

Bain Capital Credit

Blackstone

Brookfield

Centerbridge Partners

GIC

GLP

Node

TPG Real Estate

KKR

Oakview Group

Eagle Street

Edyn Limited

Capital & Regional PLC

Work highlights

  • Represented KKR and GIP on the European financing for their public-to-private acquisition of NASDAQ-listed CyrusOne Inc. for approximately USD15bn.
  • Represented Brookfield in the financing for its successful public-to-private acquisition of alstria office REIT-AG for c.EUR4.7bn.
  • Represented GIC Private Markets Private on its acquisition and subsequent financing of a portfolio of European logistics assets valued at more than EUR3bn.

Linklaters LLP

The real estate finance team at Linklaters LLP ‘is one of the best in the market‘ and advises on high-value, structured transactions domestically and across Europe, especially on matters regarding property restructuring and insolvency mandates. The team is jointly led by the ‘beyond technically excellent‘ Scott Simpson and Philip Gore; Simpson specialises in pan-European deals for banks, debt funds and private equity sponsors, and Gore has an active practice advising lenders on development financing mandates and mezzanine-level portfolio transactions. Previous co-leader of the team Steve Smith left the firm in 2021 to take up a real estate consultant role. Managing associate James Godfrey is fluent in English and French, and advises clients on a wide range of property finance mandates. Jessica Jenner joined the team from Ashurst in early 2022.

Practice head(s):

Scott SimpsonPhilip Gore

Other key lawyers:

Jessica JennerJames Godfrey

Testimonials

‘Strong, smart, and commercially-minded team that works well with the firm’s wider teams in London (RE, Tax, corporate etc) and with their international offices in Europe. They are a young, vibrant, hard-working team who appreciate their clients needs and deliver efficiently and consistently on deals.’

‘Scott and Phil’s real estate finance team is one of the best in the market – technically excellent, commercially astute, their cross-border capabilities are excellent, as is their training of their junior team members – just excellent throughout. They are a go-to firm for complicated, cross-border transactions and for structured finance transactions.’

‘Really strong mezz finance team. Phil Gore and Scott Simpson are leaders in this field.’

‘Scott Simpson is absolutely the top of the market; he’s beyond technically excellent and very much the “in demand” lawyer of our time. If you have a complicated deal, you want Scott to be working on it – clients trust him implicitly.’

‘Scott Simpson is a fantastic lawyer and always a pleasure to deal with. He has great experience of acting on all levels of the debt stack and can switch hats very easily and knows the market. Scott focuses his clients on what is important and is not afraid to hunker down on points.’

‘Phil Gore has really grown into his partner shoes now and is technically good, commercially sensible and finds a way forward politely and fairly through the toughest negotiations.’

‘James Godfrey is incredibly commercial, his practice is diverse and his client base impressive. James always finds the right way to put his point across and he’s rapidly become a very trusted advisor.’

‘James Godfrey is a great associate – intelligent, commercial and hardworking with a great future ahead of him.’

Key clients

Apollo Global Management

M&G Investments

Goldman Sachs

Bank of America Merrill Lynch

King Street Capital Management

Royal Bank of Canada

Citigroup

LaSalle Investment Management

Wells Fargo

Allianz

OakNorth Bank

Sculptor Capital Management

Cale Street Partners

Nuveen

AustralianSuper

Macquarie

Prologis

Blackstone Real Estate Strategies

Work highlights

  • Advised pollo and Blackstone Real Estate Debt Strategies in respect of Blackstone’s £969m offer for the FTSE 250-listed GCP Student Living.
  • Advised Allianz Real Estate and co-lenders on a £397.1m development finance facility to BentallGreenOak, manager of West End of London Property Unit Trust property fund and 105VS Unit Trust.
  • Advised Apollo Global Management Inc as senior lenders to Precis Capital Partners and the Carlyle Group in providing a development facility to Moda Living for the development of Embassy Boulevard in the Nine Elms district in London.

Mayer Brown International LLP

Mayer Brown International LLP’s ‘excellent’ real estate finance practice acts for both lenders and borrowers on bilateral and syndicated facilities across the UK and Europe. Alongside a growing private equity practice, large portfolio financings and loan originations are also within the group’s strong capabilities. The team is led by Andrew Hepner and David O’Connor; Hepner is experienced in structured finance real estate finance transactions, and O’Connor has a strong loan origination and real estate capital markets practice. Charles Malpass continues to bolster the firm’s ability to advise funds and financial institutions, and Andrew Crotty handles debt portfolio acquisition financings in the residential, healthcare, retail and leisure and office sectors. Senior associate Annabel Ersser is also notable and focuses on structured real estate finance for lenders and borrowers.

Testimonials

‘Excellent team covering all aspects of real estate finance.’

‘They are particularly strong in taking loans from Asian banks.’

‘They are supported by various lawyers who are all very responsive and very good.’

‘The partners stay very involved and lead from the front.’

‘Chris Harvey and Andrew Hepner are a very good tag team, very hands on, and have a huge amount of experience in acting on large financings.’

Key clients

Cheyne Capital

Citibank

Generali Real Estate

United Overseas Bank

Kennedy Wilson

Giant Mind

Paul Hastings LLP

‘The breadth and depth of expertise of the real estate finance practice’ at Paul Hastings LLP ‘is one of the best in London'. The team acts for lenders, borrowers and sponsors in three core areas: debt origination, complex structured joint ventures and funds, and CMBS in the UK and continental Europe. The ‘exceptionally strong’ Miles Flynn chairs the group and acts for alternative lenders on loan origination and loan-on-loan finance transactions. Sierra Taylor has extensive experience in acting for European and international investment funds, investment managers, banks and corporate clients, and Christina Olliver is also a notable team member.

Practice head(s):

Miles Flynn

Other key lawyers:

Sierra Taylor; Christina Olliver

Testimonials

‘Deep knowledge on senior mezzanine, A/B and loan to loan structures.’

‘The breadth and depth of expertise of the real estate finance practice at Paul Hastings is one of the best in London.’

‘The partnership works well together, collaborating at the right time to provide cohesive advice across the funding structure, from security, through regulatory and tax.’

‘Paul Hastings’ recognition of budget is an important relationship factor – the best advice is never cheap, but the team manages to stick to agreed figures and communicates clearly when this is not possible.’

‘Market leading property finance team, with a particular specialisation in structured finance and securitisation, in which field Miles Flynn remains one of the leading lights.’

‘Very strong technical abilities in the group, coupled with sensible pricing, means they are a go-to firms for real estate finance.’

‘Miles Flynn leads the team in every sense. He is exceptionally strong technically, completely unflappable and, most importantly, commercial with an innate instinct of knowing when and how to push points in a negotiations. He is front and centre on every engagement and completely accessible, 24/7.’

‘Miles Flynn and Christina Olliver provide a stand out service. Miles always brings a calm rigour to any negotiation and is particularly strong around complex matters that need a commercial head to find a way through.’

Key clients

Starwood European Finance Partners Limited

Bank of America Europe DAC

Investec Bank Plc

JP Morgan

Morgan Stanley

Deutsche Bank

DRC Capital

Oaktree Capital

Fairfield Real Estate Finance

Eastlodge Capital

Goldman Sacs

Work highlights

  • Acting for Goldman Sachs in relation to a €295.3m CMBS collateralised by two loans.
  • Advised Eastlodge Capital in connection with the provision of an £86m development facility to a company owned by Corinthian Homes for the development of Hayle Harbour in Cornwall.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP has a reputable and expanding real estate finance practice, handling a range of domestic and cross-border acquisitions and refinancing mandates. The team is well-known for acting for major private equity real estate funds, including Blackstone and KKR. Tom Lloyd is head of the team with particularly expertise in sponsor-driven real estate investment, and Edward Hampson is also a key member of the real estate finance practice. James Esterkin joined the team in June 2022 from Kirkland & Ellis International LLP; Esterkin’s practice focuses on complex cross-border acquisition and development financing, non-performing loans, and restructuring real estate-related secured debt.

Practice head(s):

Tom Lloyd

Other key lawyers:

Edward Hampson; James Esterkin

Key clients

Apollo Global Management

Biomed

The Blackstone Group

Blackstone

Telereal Trillium

Goldentree Asset Management

Kohlberg Kravis Roberts

MARK

Northwood Investors

Round Hill Capital

Sage Housing Group

Sponda Plc

Testa Residencial SOCIMI

Work highlights

  • Represented Blackstone in its €21bn recapitalisation of Mileway, the largest last mile logistics portfolio in Europe, alongside Blackstone’s Core+ strategy.
  • Representated Blackstone Real Estate Partners in its acquisition and financing of a portfolio for more than 200 Swedish logistics and industrial assets from Castellum Aktiebolag, valued at $2.2bn.
  • Represented Blackstone in the £1.25bn take-private acquisition of housebuilder and logistics firm, St. Modwen Properties.

Addleshaw Goddard

Since the start of 2022, Zoe Maurer has been leading the real estate finance team at Addleshaw Goddard, and she handles mandates for both lenders and borrowers regarding investment and development finance across a range of asset classes, including hotels and leisure, offices, retail, and industrial and residential housing. Previous team leader Steve Mackie is still an active member of the group, with extensive experience in real estate-backed finance, social housing finance work, and student accommodation mandates. Sarah Egbu specialises in hotel finance, whilst Paul Salsbury is a member of the firm’s cross-border real estate group, and thus has expertise handling both UK-based and pan-European real estate finance. Zak Ikponmwosa is skilled at handling work involving multiple debt issues and cross-border matters, and Ian Kyno was promoted to partner in May 2022.

Practice head(s):

Zoe Maurer

Testimonials

‘AG has a particular strength in collaborating well amongst different teams and offices within the firm. AG’s Finance team in London are excellent at managing transactions and liaising with local offices in the Middle East to provide a full transaction service.’

‘The Addleshaw team are able to work efficiently to minimise costs whilst they provide great service, advice and transaction management, enabling smooth transactions and happy borrowers and bank.’

‘The team are solid and know the market well. Very easy to interact with and very down to earth. The team made all the time for us that we needed and nothing was ever an issue.’

‘Excellent commercial awareness, striking just the right balance between commercial and legal considerations. Team works seamlessly with other departments within the firm (property, corporate etc).’

‘Zak Ikponmwosa has been an outstanding member of the REF team at AG – he is always available to provide sound and commercial advice under tight or short timeframes, yet he always delivers quality advice and help. Zak always goes the extra mile to assist.’

‘Sarah Egbu is a particularly good lawyer – her ability to provide guidance between both legal and commercial implications of deal negotiating points is highly valuable to us as a client.’

‘Zoe Maurer has excellent commercial awareness, striking just the right balance between commercial and legal considerations.’

‘Steve Mackie is calm, assured and an industry leader.’

Key clients

Aareal Bank AG

AIB Group UK plc

Aviva

Bank of Ireland

Bank of London & The Middle East plc

Bayerische Landesbank

British Arab Commercial Bank

Canada Life Investments

CC Land

Clydesdale Bank plc

Coutts & Co

Criterion Capital

Emirates NBD Bank

Europa Capital Debt Investment

First Abu Dhabi Bank

Fortwell Capital

Handelsbanken plc

HB Reavis

Hillview Real Estate

ICICI

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China

Investec Bank plc

KAMCO Investment Company K.S.C.P.

Kasamar Holdings

KTB Asset Management

Landesbank Hessen-Thurin

Aareal Bank AG

AIB Group UK plc

Aviva

Bank of Ireland

Bank of London & The Middle East plc

Bayerische Landesbank

British Arab Commercial Bank

Canada Life Investments

CC Land

Clydesdale Bank plc

Coutts & Co

Criterion Capital

Emirates NBD Bank

Europa Capital Debt Investment

First Abu Dhabi Bank

Fortwell Capital

Handelsbanken plc

HB Reavis

Hillview Real Estate

ICICI

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China

Investec Bank plc

KAMCO Investment Company K.S.C.P.

Kasamar Holdings

KTB Asset Management

Landesbank Hessen-Thuringen GZ

Lembarga Tabung Haji

M7 Capital

MiddleCap Real Estate

Nord/LB

OakNorth Bank plc

Public Islamic Bank Berhad

Puma Property Investments

Qatar National Bank

Q Investment Partners Pte

RBC Europe

Rocket Properties

Santander UK plc

Tellon Capital

Tribeca

United Overseas Bank

University Partnership Programme

Venn Partners LLP

Wing Tai Properties

Zorin Finance

gen GZ

Work highlights

  • Supported Aviva in transacting one of its first sustainability-linked loans, which was provided to the Big Yellow Group.
  • Supported NatWest and Bank Leumi in delivering a £150m debt package for the Project Saturn joint venture between EQT and Sigma Capital, established to deliver 3,000 BTR units across Greater London with a scheme value of £1bn.
  • Supported Kamco Invest on the conventional and Shariah-compliant debt provision for a quartet of office acquisitions in Central London, Basildon, Dartford and Birmingham for a combined value of £120m.

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie‘s ‘deeply commercial‘ real estate finance team supports investors, developers, lenders and owners on equity investments and acquisitions, debt financing, real estate, tax and regulatory requirements. Practice head Sebastien Marcelin-Rice has extensive experience in the hotel sector and has mandates spanning across Europe. Oliver Jefferies joined the team from Stephenson Harwood in July 2021 and bolsters the team’s pan-European offering, handling cross-border senior and mezzanine structures and restructuring mandates. Senior associate Lisa Aspden-Li is also notable, with experience advising lenders and sponsors on office buildings, shopping centres, hotels, built-to-rent properties and student housing.

Practice head(s):

Sebastien Marcelin-Rice

Other key lawyers:

Oliver Jefferies; Lisa Aspden-Li

Testimonials

‘Deeply commercial team which is dedicated to delivering the right outcome for its clients. Excellent partner level engagement; senior individuals can be counted on to step in to manage complex legal and transactional points.’

‘At the partner level, very high levels of engagement into the fine details of the deal. Develops innovative solutions for both the borrower and lender, regardless of who they represent, and will offer unique advice to “win” the deal.’

‘The Partners add a level of personal touch, making it a priority to get to know all stakeholders of the transaction. They make an absolute effort to build personal rapport with deal teams, lenders, advisors to ensure that the atmosphere on calls and meetings is met with empathy and humbleness.’

Key clients

Maybank

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

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company

Royal Bank of Canada

Barings Asset Management Ltd

Davidson Kempner Partners

Ares

Tyrus Capital

RoundShield Partners

HIG Realty

CIMB Bank Berhad

OCBC Bank Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised Standard Chartered Bank as Lender in connection with the acquisition of the North Galaxy towers by a KB Financial affiliated entity for in excess of €600m.
  • Act for Royal Bank of Canada as administrative agent providing combined real estate finance and real estate advice in connection with financing of the acquisitions of hospitals and medical office buildings in the UK.
  • Advised a syndicate of seven initial purchasers on the €300m 5.25% senior secured high yield bond issuance by Vía Célere Desarrollos Inmobiliarios.

CMS

The real estate finance team at the ‘outstanding firm‘ CMS is highly skilled in handling large UK-based and pan-European portfolio deals for both lenders and borrowers in the housebuilding, logistics, hotels, hospitality and leisure, office and care home sectors. Clive Swillman is head of the practice, and both him and Simon Johnston are strong in development and structured finance. Andrew Besser acts for lenders and large property companies across the UK and Europe, and Ian McGarr is also notable as head of the firm’s global hotels and leisure finance group. Mike Delaney is adept at advising clients on cross-border mandates, and the ‘excellent’ Josie Hearnden supports clients on senior and mezzanine inter creditor loans, and has a particular specialism in the hotel and healthcare sectors.

Practice head(s):

Clive Swillman

Testimonials

‘CMS is an outstanding firm for the calibre of its lawyers and approach. Their advice has been consistently excellent, pragmatic and solution based. Their teams feel like an extension of your own and you always feel like you are in safe hands.’

‘The team is professional, knowledgeable and very helpful in every deal that we have worked on together. CMS stands out among other firms as the team is approachable and willing to spend time in explaining simple or complex terms and structure in documentation.’

‘Big team with very good strength in depth.’

Key clients

Bank of Ireland

HSBC

Santander

M&G

Galliard

United Overseas Bank

Bank Leumi

Aviva

UBS

AIB

Work highlights

  • Advising Henderson Park on the financing of its £555m acquisition of 12 Hilton branded hotels across England, Scotland and Ireland.
  • Advised Mountpark Logistics EU S.à r.l. on the £250m refinancing of assets across England, Ireland and Spain from Nuveen Real Estate Finance.
  • Advised Grosvenor Liverpool Fund in connection with a £300m refinancing of Liverpool One.

Dechert LLP

The London team at Dechert LLP works closely with the firm’s European offices to support lenders and clients in the financial market on cross-border real estate finance transactions. Aparna Sehgal leads the European structured finance and real estate group and has expertise in complex, multi-jurisdictional transactions. She is praised as ‘a very experienced lawyer, especially on complex asset-backed financings’ and John McGrath is strong in structured finance matters. Richard Pugh joined from the Bank of America in April 2022 with strength in advising on commercial mortgage-backed securitisations, and the team has also grown at the associate level. Sarah Smith joined Baker McKenzie in February 2022.

Practice head(s):

Aparna Sehgal

Testimonials

‘Aparna Sehgal has a great eye for detail and is brilliant at helping to steer large and often challenging groups of parties towards agreement on the legal documentation.’

‘Elizabeth Le Vay is knowledgeable and reliable, and with Aparna, they make a very formidable team.’ 

‘Aparna and her team are a highly capable pair of hands that can be fully relied upon and trusted.’

‘Aparna Sehgal’s team at Dechert is very hands-on and commercial. She’s a very experienced lawyer, especially on complex asset-backed financings.’ 

‘Aparna Sehgal is a very proactive team player.’

‘Aparna Sehgal is very client focused and always works hard to ensure deadlines and expectations are met. She picks up issues quickly and distributes them across the relevant teams at Dechert very well.’

Key clients

AGC Equity Partners

Apollo Global Management

BAWAG PSK

Blackstone

Blackrock

Citibank N.A., London Branch

Edmond De Rothschild

Goldman Sachs

Ping An Overseas Holdings

Real I.S.

Rothesay Life

SAL Pension Fund

Sculptor Capital

Soller Capital Management

Versace UK Plc

Wells Fargo

Zetland Capital

Dentons

Dentons advises major financial institutions, private banks, and borrowers on domestic and cross-border real estate finance transactions; it therefore benefits from the firm’s global presence. The team is co-led by Simon Tweedle, who advises funders and borrowers on investment and development finance mandates across office, retail, residential, hotel, care home, student accommodation and shopping centres asset classes, and James Irvine, who is strong in restructuring mandates and the hotel sector. Similarly, Simon Masri also has expertise in hotel investments, and Marc Gilston joined the team from TLT in May 2021.

Practice head(s):

Simon Tweedle; James Irvine 

Testimonials

‘Strong collaboration with Finance colleagues ensures a joined up and efficient approach to negotiations. Team is joined up, easy to deal with and attentive when required.’

‘They provide solid advice at all levels and have an ability to pull in the experts from across the firm.’

‘The real estate finance team is strong with good partner level advice always available.’

‘Simon Tweedle has long been a go-to source of advice on any real estate finance matter; he is clear, commercial and responsive, as well as fun to work with.’

‘Simon Masri and team always deliver great advice, take a commercial approach, and offer innovative solutions where required. They can work to tight deadlines and deliver excellent value for money.’

‘Simon Masri is always available. He gave great support during all negotiations.’

‘Catherine Astruc is a calm pair of hands and has good sector knowledge.’

‘Simon Masri and James Irvine work closely together and joined up from a client perspective and it always feels like they have your back. They come up with practical, sensible advice.’

Key clients

Lloyds Bank

HSBC Bank

Metro Bank

Royal Bank of Scotland/ NatWest/ Lombard

DBS Bank

Societe Generale

Chenavari Investment Managers and its funding entity (AREO Sarl)

Ho Be 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

Lloyds Bank

Heitman

Work highlights

  • Advising Vengrove on a new up to £100m financing to be provided by ICG to various Vengrove SPVs for the purposes of financing or refinancing the acquisition and certain development works of three initial industrial properties in England.
  • Advising Scottish Widows on the provisions of a £61.7m sustainability linked investment financing for the purposes of refinancing the acquisitions of numerous office properties.
  • Advising NatWest on the provisions of a £100m investment loan to the Primary Health Properties group to refinance existing borrowings.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper‘s ‘broad and experienced‘ real estate finance team is well-known for acting on complex and cross-border transactions, especially regarding sport stadium finance. Toby Barker heads up the practice with expertise in leveraged finance and cross-border mandates, and he is increasingly active regarding green loan financings. Paul Gray has a strong focus on structured real estate finance on a pan-European level, with a specialism in the sports sector. Christopher Chan is also a notable name, advising borrowers and lenders on investment and development financing matters on a wide range of asset classes, including  hotels and leisure, commercial, retail, residential and student accommodation. David Trott joined from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP in May 2021 to lead the firm’s international finance, projects and restructuring group, and Lewis Gaut was promoted to the partnership in May 2022.

Practice head(s):

Toby Barker

Testimonials

‘The DLA Property Finance Team’s commercial approach to issues based on their knowledge, skill and finesse make them among the best of real estate finance legal teams. The DLA team simplifies the process, focusses effort, does not waste time and gets the job done.’

‘Not only are DLA excellent lawyers, but they positively influence their clients’ businesses. The DLA team is always able to bring in their local experts to come in to help when appropriate. The DLA team is very business savvy and drives clients’ businesses forward by solving legal issues.’

‘Hands-on partner support from A to Z, coupled with outstanding communication and negotiation skills.’

Work highlights

  • Acted for Fortress Investment Group LLC in connection with the acquisition of shares and management rights in a number fund vehicles and owned by Colony Capital.
  • Advising Harrison Street in relation to an acquisition and development financing made available by a fund to a JV with CA Ventures to assist with the acquisition and development of a 623 bed purpose-built student accommodation scheme in Cork, Ireland.
  • Acting for Oxford Properties as sponsor on the acquisition financing of a portfolio of logistics and warehousing properties in Denmark.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

The real estate finance team at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP has a strong practice, advising both lenders and borrowers on UK and pan-European mandates; the firm’s international presence is an asset on cross-border deals. The team is particularly noted for its development finance expertise. Simon Mead is praised as ‘an extremely experienced finance lawyer‘ and he heads the department, which is also home to Robert Ludwig, who advises banks and debt funds on senior and mezzanine transactions, and Chris Brooks, who has a strong pan-European practice. Sheena Wells and Jane Allen are also notable names.

Practice head(s):

Simon Mead 

Testimonials

‘One of the largest Real Estate finance teams in the UK.’

‘The team benefits from a strong regional practice and is one of few providers who is genuinely full service and with depth in all areas.’

‘Simon Mead is an extremely experienced finance lawyer. He is able to bring sound commercial reason in aspects of a transaction, and combines technical strengths with accomplished negotiating skills. He is supported by a talented and client-centric team.’

‘Robert Ludwig is very knowledge of the real market, has a strong legal background, and has a very pragmatic approach when it comes to negotiation, leading to a very smooth and easy documentation and funding process.’

‘Robert Ludwig is very hands on, extremely available and pragmatic.’

‘Chris Brooks is pragmatic, responsive and commercial.’

Key clients

PRS Operations Limited

Aviva Commercial Finance Limited

LaSalle Investment Management

Aviva Public Private Finance Limited

Audley Group Developments 1 Limited

Bank Leumi

Waveney Capital

NewRiver

Cheyne Capital

Legal & General

Latham & Watkins

The real estate finance group at Latham & Watkins is praised for providing ‘technical and commercial expertise at the highest level’. The team advises investment banks, specialist real estate lenders, financing syndicates, borrowers and investment trusts on complex and multi-jurisdictional real estate finance matters in the UK and across Europe. In particular, the group is adept at handling mezzanine loan financings, commercial mortgage-backed securities and non-performing loan portfolio financing matters. The ‘highly commercial‘ Jeremy A Trinder leads the practice with expertise in a wide range of matters, including advising lenders and sponsors on leverage and structured finance matters. Quentin A Gwyer has a thriving pan-European practice involving the equity and debt elements of transactions, and counsel James Beeson is skilled in cross-border acquisition and development financing mandates.

Practice head(s):

Jeremy A Trinder

Other key lawyers:

Quentin A GwyerJames Beeson

Testimonials

‘Highly detailed and engaged team who are able to provide technical and commercial expertise at the highest level.’

‘Jeremy Trinder is highly commercial and able to bring creative solutions to the table for a wide variety of deals.’

‘James Beeson is a stand out Counsel – superb technical skills with a high degree of practicality; he is highly personable, cuts through to the core issues and just “gets it”.’

Key clients

Blackstone Real Estate Advisors

Blackstone Mortgage Trust

TDR Capital

Bellis Finco

Lineage Logistics

Cerberus Capital Management

Ares Management

KSL

Brookfield

Partners Group

Barclays

Work highlights

  • Advised Bellis Acquisition Company plc and Bellis Finco plc on the senior secured notes due 2026 and senior notes due 2027 alongside an equity contribution, a new term loan A and term loan B, a revolving credit facility, a £750m forecourt disposal bridge facility and a £950m distribution asset disposal bridge facility.
  • Advised Goldman Sachs on its term loan, bridge, and revolving credit facilities in connection with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Holdings’ £6.6bn take private of WM Morrison Supermarkets Plc.
  • Advised Brookfield on its £714m acquisition and refinancing of the Arlington Group from TPG Real Estate Partners.

Macfarlanes LLP

Macfarlanes LLP‘s real estate finance team is led by the ‘brilliant lawyer‘ Colin Morgan, who advises senior and mezzanine lenders, borrowers and developers on property investment and development, as does Laura Bretherton. The group is adept at handling high-value and complex transactions and LIBOR transitions for lenders and borrowers, often involving the private rented sect, build-to-rent and hotels. Sustainable lending is also an increasing focus of the group. Christine Dowdall, Clare Breeze and Jatinder Bains are also key team members.

Practice head(s):

Colin Morgan

Testimonials

‘Very professional, well informed, technically strong and reliable team. Always seek to deliver and always meet deadlines. Very high quality across all the team. Easy to deal with.’

‘They excel at coordinating transactions involving multiple jurisdictions with other legal counsel and compiling advice therefrom in order to deliver a unified legal advice to their client.’

‘Their outstanding work product stems from their capacity to analyse, dissect and understand any matters which arise in the context of a transaction and their unique ability to provide exceptional legal advice to their clients in relation to such issues in order to safeguard both their interests and the transaction as a whole.’

‘The Macfarlanes property finance team is very responsive, proactive and collaborative across specialties. No transaction is too complex for them, and they have a solid handle on market trends across sectors. The client experience is seamless.’

‘Laura Bretherton’s client service-oriented approach inspires complete confidence at every step through a transaction. She provides advice clearly and confidently. Laura is also a lovely person to deal with personally day-to-day, and as a result she seems to effortlessly form solid working relationships across deals.’

‘Jat Bains knows the debt market inside out; he’s an excellent principle advisor.’

‘Colin Morgan is a brilliant lawyer. He has a deep knowledge of the law and of the market trends which make him extremely capable of tackling complicated matters arising in the context of a transaction and giving precise legal advice to his clients in order to find the best alternatives to such issues.’

‘Christine Dowell is personable and extremely easy to work with. She is quick and intelligent, and her deep knowledge of the law makes her contributions to transactions invaluable. She has a clear and bright mind, she is creative, and she is also efficient and reliable.’

Key clients

Realstar Capital

CHR London Limited

Data4 Group

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited

Arora

Legal & General

One New Fetter Lane Limited

ARA Venn

M7 Real Estate Limited

Supermarket Income REIT plc

Work highlights

  • Advising OCBC on the transition of its entire UK real estate loan book from LIBOR to SONIA as the revised reference rate for each of those loans upon the discontinuation of LIBOR at the end of 2021.
  • Advising CHR on the £76m development financing arranged by Precis Capital for the development of Empire House, a vacant office block on Chiswick High Road comprising with housing 137 homes.
  • Advising Data4 on its historic €620m debt financing to support its pan-European growth plan.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright has a global footprint with 58 international offices, and the London team is therefore well placed to undertake cross-border mandates for major banks and sponsors. It handles senior debt financings, mezzanine structures, development financing, and large-scale mixed-use regeneration projects. Dan Kennedy and Sarah Cullen jointly lead the ‘strong real estate finance practice’; Kennedy is strong in the aforementioned development and regeneration financing projects, and Cullen has a broad practice, advising on office, residential, retail, logistics, and student accommodation asset classes. Jennie Dorsaint has expertise in acting for lenders, arrangers, investors, administrators and debt funds.

Practice head(s):

Dan Kennedy; Sarah Cullen

Other key lawyers:

Jennie Dorsaint; Colin Kwok

Testimonials

‘Reliable and supportive team.’

‘Norton Rose has a strong real estate finance practice with user-friendly partners and associates supported by a solid construction practice.’

‘The team are great to work with.’

‘Exceptional in terms of both quality of advice and transaction management.’

‘Sarah Cullen is a go-to person and a joy to work with. She helps clients navigate very complicated and difficult transactions and keeps a tremendous sense of humour while doing it!’

‘Colin Kwok performs at an extremely high level. It is good to see that the future is very bright in the Norton Rose Fulbright property finance team.’

‘Dan Kennedy is user friendly, very involved on the transactions and will put in the hours to ensure the deal is delivered within timeframe.’

Key clients

Battersea Power Station

West End of London Property Unit Trust

105VS Unit Trust

DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale

Invesco Real Estate

Nedbank

United Overseas Bank

Qatar National Bank

National Westminster Bank plc

Standard Chartered Bank

AIG Asset Management

Work highlights

  • Advised Battersea Power Station on the amendment, restatement and increase of its existing £600m phase 3 development finance facilities by a further £305m to finance the next stage of its development of residential, commercial and retail units located on the 42 acre Battersea Power Station site.
  • Advised on a co-investment led by Welput in connection with a £400m financing provided in part by Allianz Real Estate for the redevelopment of 105 Victoria Street (the former Victoria branch of House of Fraser) into an office, retail and leisure development owned by 105VSUT.
  • Advised a residential fund managed by Invesco Real Estate in relation to a £71m secured term loan facility provided by Wells Fargo.

Reed Smith LLP

Reed Smith LLP represents lenders and borrowers on a wide range of domestic and cross-border real estate finance mandates, including private equity real estate funds and CMBS transactions. Kamal Arulvel leads the group with expertise in investment and development finance, and other core group members include Angelina Soon and Jason Richardson, who are both strong in structured finance, and Iain Balkwill, who has substantial experience in securitisation matters. Francisca Sepúlveda joined Mishcon de Reya LLP in September 2021.

Practice head(s):

Kamal Arulvel

Taylor Wessing LLP

The real estate finance team at Taylor Wessing LLP is praised by clients as a ‘one-stop shop’. It advises a wide array of sponsors and lenders on domestic and pan-European senior, mezzanine and preferred equity lending deals. Martin Yells  sits at the helm of the practice, which is also home to Heather Buttle, who advises banks, insurance companies, mezzanine lenders, developers and property companies across various asset classes and jurisdictions, with a strong focus on the residential sector and student accommodation. Jonathan Marks adeptly handles development, acquisition and refinancing transactions, Gareth Lawson supports UK, European and US financial institutions, and Amar Ali is particularly skilled in structured real estate finance.

Practice head(s):

Martin Yells

Testimonials

‘Excellent service and response times.’

‘A firm which provides a consistently high quality service by some highly experienced individuals and with very competitive pricing.’

‘A team which is always fully engaged, very responsive, provides clear and concise advice, including creative solutions to solve any issues along the way.’

‘A well-connected team that works well with the corporate and real estate teams for seamless delivery.’

‘Taylor Wessing are a real one-stop shop.’

‘The team provides clear, constructive advice and seeks to find solutions to issues that may arise.’

‘TW demonstrated thorough, in-depth knowledge of the loan facility agreement including all the main commercial terms that tend to be closely negotiated – through their experience, seen a variety of transactions which means advice can be provided with reference to precedent situations and general market standard.’

‘General transaction management skills throughout, with consideration to timescales, client feedback/sensitivities, other parties and wider transaction context.’

Key clients

PIMCO

Starz Real Estate

Deutsche Bank

Deka Bank

PGIM

Helaba

Federated Hermes

Wells Fargo

MetLife Insurance

Victory Group

ING Bank N.V.

Security Benefit Life Insurance Company

Cain International

DBS Bank Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acted for Apollo and PIMCO on the senior and mezzanine funding arrangements for the €270m financing to Marlet Property Group for the development of the “College Square” area in Dublin.
  • Acted for Victory Group in relation to the senior and mezzanine funding of Victory Group’s acquisition of ABN AMRO’s head office in Amsterdam.
  • Advising on the £417.6m forward funding of a portfolio of seven logistic assets with a debt facility from BREDS.

White & Case LLP

White & Case LLP‘s ‘technically excellent‘ real estate finance practice advises clients across a range of mandates, from loan origination and syndications, to acquisitions, loan-on-loan financings and CMBS matters. March 2022 saw the opening of a new office in Luxembourg, which will continue to bolster the group’s European offering. Co-practice head Jeffrey Rubinoff is praised as ‘indomitable and hugely experienced’ and has a thriving and broad ranging practice, advising private equity houses, sovereign wealth funds, private property investors, banks and mezzanine debt funds. Justin Jowitt also co-leads the department having joined the firm in June 2021 from Paul Hastings LLP alongside associate Paul Oumade-Singh in October 2021. Other notable names include Victoria Landsbert, who handles acquisition and disposals, and Sudhir Nair, who has strengths in distressed investments and restructurings.

Practice head(s):

Jeffrey Rubinoff; Justin Jowitt

Testimonials

‘The team are not only technically excellent, but are also very commercial, and this runs through both partners and associates. They make you feel valued as a client, not only through very good communication and proactive updates on transactions, but also with general check-ins in between transactions.’

‘Victoria Landsbert is a hard-working, ambitious and competent lawyer.’

‘Jeffrey and Lisa are an understated powerhouse of technical real estate finance excellence – knowledgeable, experienced and straight forward, they have amassed an approachable and technical team, an impressive list of clients and a well deserved reputation.’

‘Very strong team across the board with good strength in depth led by the indomitable and hugely experienced Jeffrey Rubinoff, who remains actively engaged and accessible.’

‘Victoria Landsbert stands out through her deep expertise in both real estate and real estate finance, which allows her to add real technical and commercial value to transactions. She makes herself available whenever needed and she runs her transactions in a way which is cost effective whilst maintaining quality.’

‘Both Justin Jowitt and Paul Oumade-Singh work hard to deliver exceptional service and advice. Very fast response times, clear details, advice and explanations. They really help to streamline a transaction.’

‘Jeffrey is the elder statesman of real estate finance and can always be counted on to round out the discussion on a tense point, provide objective feedback on tough issues and corral an annoyed client to a reasonable compromise. He is technically excellent and his experience is freely imparted in an honest but never judgmental way.’

‘Lisa is an established lawyer and her client facing skills are second to none – she’s approachable, proactive and productive.’

Key clients

Starwood Capital Group

J.P. Morgan

Investec

Deutsche Bank

Blackstone

KSL Credit Management, LLC

GFH Capital Partners

Oaktree Capital Management

Royal Bank of Canada

Aareal Bank

ING Bank

Westmont Hospitality

Oaknorth Bank plc

Work highlights

  • Advised Starwood European Finance Partners in connection with the real estate financing of the acquisition of Macdonald Manchester Hotel and the Macdonald Holyrood Hotel by Zetland Capital Partners.
  • Advised J.P Morgan on the senior and mezzanine financing and inter-creditor arrangements of a block of luxury residential apartments in Grosvenor Square, Mayfair.
  • Advised Investec and GIC on their financing of a newly completed PRS scheme at 2 Millharbour near Canary Wharf.

Fieldfisher

Fieldfisher ‘s ‘extremely experienced and knowledgeable’ real estate finance group has a growing pan-European offering and handles deals involving hotels, care homes, student accommodation, ground rent portfolios and PRS assets. The team has developed expertise in predominantly acting for debt funds, as well as domestic and international banks and borrowers. Philip Abbott heads up the practice and advises lenders and borrowers on investment and development financing mandates in the UK. Christian FrancisJayne Backett and Iain Thomas are also notable team members.

Practice head(s):

Philip Abbott

Testimonials

‘Good knowledge and experience. Take a keen interest in the policies and issues which concern clients, so the focus is on the key issues.’

‘They are a responsive team that proactively manage transactions and regularly keep clients updated without the need to chase. They know how the client operates and how things need to be done, and provide options and recommendations to issues that arise.’

‘Good breadth of experience and knowledge with quality advisors from partner level down to associates.’

‘The team is extremely experienced and knowledgeable about the sector. They combine this with a good commercial approach and understanding of the client’s needs and commercial objectives. They are really pleasant to work with and are really user-friendly.’

‘Iain Thomas is fantastic and a great guy to work with. He really understands the issues that are important to clients and delivers tailored, commercial advice.’

‘Phil Abbott is very knowledgeable.’

‘James Stripe is very reliable and easy to work with.’

Key clients

Elevation Advisors LLP

Deutsche Pfandbriefbank AG

Dominvs Group Limited

Paragon Bank Plc

Work highlights

  • Acted for Elevation Advisors LLP on a significant credit facility.

Fladgate LLP

Fladgate LLP is highly adept at advising borrowers and lenders on acquisitions of loan portfolios and development financing matters. Sectors of focus for the group include hotels, restaurants, retail and healthcare. Kim McMurray chairs the practice with expertise across the spectrum of real estate finance matters, handling a range of asset classes, including student accommodation, care homes, and data centres. The group is also home to Daniel Polden and Gary Smith, who both advise domestic and overseas clients, and Jenny Sargeant, who expertly handles development mandates.

Practice head(s):

Kim McMurray

Key clients

Forma Real Estate Fund II

Work highlights

  • Acted for Forma Real Estate Fund II in connection with the £52m financing for the acquisition of a very high profile office building in the core central business district of Glasgow.

Goodwin

Goodwin ‘demonstrates strength in depth‘ and has particular experience in debt-related transactions, mezzanine financing and CMBS loans both. Practice head Paul Lyons advises borrowers and lenders, and the ‘strong hire‘ Richard Semple and Geoff O’Dea are also notable team members.

Practice head(s):

Paul Lyons

Other key lawyers:

Richard Semple; Toby Young; Emily Lockhart; Geoff O’Dea

Testimonials

‘The team demonstrates strength in depth.’

‘Richard Semple is a strong hire and has significantly expanded the Goodwin Real Estate Finance offering.’

‘Richard Semple is building a strong team and delivers an excellent level of service, attention to detail and commercial awareness.’

‘Counsel Toby Young is recommended.’

‘Paul Lyons leads exceptionally well.’

‘Associate Emily Lockhart is very responsive and insightful.’

Gowling WLG

Gowling WLG handles ‘complex and structured property investment and development transactions’ for clearing banks, debt funds and alternative lenders, overseas banks and borrower funds. In particular, the group has been active in development finance mandates in the private rented sector, build to rent, student accommodation, data centres, mixed residential use, and hotels. Nick Turner heads up the practice, acting for some of the group’s major debt funds and mezzanine lenders. Jon Lent joined Squire Patton Boggs  in June 2021.

Practice head(s):

Nick Turner

Other key lawyers:

Christine Jackson; Alice Bucharova

Testimonials

‘They are able to combine the legal requirements of different jurisdiction in finance documents, because they are open-minded to other legal systems.’

‘Gowling property finance team is able to handle complex and structured property investment and development transactions.’

‘It’s especially impressive that the team has good understanding of financial covenants and commercial matters, which helps with documentation negotiation and drafting.’

‘They are able to draft complex ideas in simple words.’

‘Nick Turner has huge legal knowledge, ability to explain English law requirements to foreign lawyers, is reliable and flexible, and great in negotiations.’

‘Christine Jackson is very experienced and concise in dealing with all real estate topics.’

‘Alice Bucharova follows lengthy, complicated discussions with an amazing ability to put the results into the documentation with great speed. Very organised regarding all details to be observed.’

Key clients

ICG

HSBC Bank

LBBW

Aberdeen Standard European Logistics plc

CBRE

Gravis Capital Management

DZ Hyp

Empiric Student Property PLC

HC-One Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted for CBRE/Daiwa on a £24m facility to fund a bridge to planning transaction.
  • Acted for Hayfield Homes on an increase to its existing facility with OakNorth Bank plc to a total maximum amount of £67m, in order to fund the purchase of an additional site.
  • Acted for Inland Homes on a £21.6m facility agreement with Homes England and a £1.75m increase to its existing facility agreement with Paragon, to refinance existing indebtedness and provide funding for its Cheshunt Lakeside development.

Greenberg Traurig, LLP

Greenberg Traurig, LLP has an increasing focus on acting for alternative lenders, and has strong real estate finance capabilities across the UK and Europe. The team includes the ‘exceptionally strong‘ Partha Pal, who acts for both lenders and borrowers across the entire spectrum of property finance mandates, especially securitisation and structured finance transactions in the commercial real estate space. Daniyal Ansari joined the firm in March 2022 from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, bolstering the team’s pan-European offering. Gary Bellingham left for Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath in January 2023, and Emma Menzies also left the firm in 2023.

Other key lawyers:

Partha Pal; Monica Miranda; Daniyal Ansari

Testimonials

‘The practice has a strong team that is willing to go above and beyond client’s specific requests and provide comprehensive support throughout the process.’

‘Highly responsive and focused on client goals.’

‘Excellent knowledge, commercial and practical disposition, and superb and timely execution.’

‘Partha Pal is probably the best structured finance lawyer in London.’

‘Partha Pal leads by example and defends his clients position very well.’

‘Partha Pal very engaged and willing to go the extra mile to meet client goals.’

‘Partha Pal is not only exceptionally strong from a technical perspective, but also outstanding when it comes to supporting the client during the transaction. His ability to guide and coordinate multiple teams to deliver high quality results is remarkable.’

‘Monica Miranda is a highly talented professional.’

Key clients

Nuveen Real Estate

Europa Capital

Peel Logistics Partnership

Big City Holdings LLC

Fabrix Capital

Weerts Group

Oxford Technology Park

William Davies

Scape

Zenprop

Paloma

H.I.G Capital

Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America

MGT

Oaktree

Linus Capital

Henderson Park

Ares Capital

EQT

Azora Capital

The Ardent Companies

Boundary Real Estate Partners

Work highlights

  • Represented Paloma Unit Trusts in connection with loan facilities up to £300m provided by Wells Fargo Bank in connection with the refinancing of a portfolio of logistic assets.
  • Acted for EQT in a EUR400m financing provided to it by Morgan Stanley.
  • Represented Scape in the £157m refinancing of three student accommodation and co-living assets, with the financing provided by Aareal Bank AG.

Mishcon de Reya LLP

Mishcon de Reya LLP‘s real estate finance team is led by Nick Strutt, who advises banks, financial institutions, funds, developers and investors on development, investment and structured financing matters. Strutt is also praised by clients for his ‘exceptional knowledge and experience'. The team supports both lenders and borrowers equally on a range of transactions, and is home to Raji Bartlett and the ‘very knowledgable’ Francisca Sepúlveda, who are strong in the syndicated finance space. Sarah Spurling is also a key team member and acts on enforcements and restructurings.

Practice head(s):

Nick Strutt

Testimonials

‘The people have good experience and in-depth understanding of what the client requires.’

‘The team are highly regarded within the property finance sector in London and the UK. Their attention to detail is excellent and they understand the need to balance legal protection with being commercial.’

‘Very strong and when there is team rotation they are replaced efficiently with other very strong team members.’

‘The individuals working within the team are some of the best lawyers in London.’

‘Mishcon has all bases covered and delivers that complete service that lets you sleep at night knowing you are in the most capable hands.’

‘Their experience and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a deal can get done is impressive. The Mishcons team are also very commercial.’

‘Sarah Spurling is very knowledgeable, commercial and pragmatic.’

‘Nick Strutt possesses exceptional knowledge and experience, but has the gift of making it all seem simple. Nothing is too challenging and his team have that ability to get deals over the line.’

Key clients

A.S.K. Partners Agent Limited

Catalina Reinsurance

Brookfield

Bank of London and the Middle East Plc

Splenteno Limited

PGIM

Metritamo Limited

Vebral Limited

Arindel Properties Limited

Equites International Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Splenteno Limited in relation to a £16m financing of a residential development, P&H House in Hove, Brighton.
  • Acted for a longstanding client on a £22m mezzanine bridge loan in respect of a student development in Lewisham.
  • Advised multiple clients to transition their loan facilities from LIBOR to SONIA.

Osborne Clarke LLP

Osborne Clarke LLP has a full service offering with an increasing focus on ESG and sustainable loans for banks, alternative lenders, borrowers, and investors. Sectors of focus for the team include retail, logistics, student accommodation, retirement living, standard residential and build-to-rent, as well as the hotel sector. Nick Padget chairs the real estate finance group and Madeleine Clark leads the banking and finance team. Padget’s practice focuses on high-value portfolio transactions, and Clark frequently advises on cross-border investment and development deals. Jason Lawrance is also of note, advising clients on restructuring matters.

Practice head(s):

Nick Padget

Other key lawyers:

Madeleine Clark; Jason Lawrance

Key clients

Patrizia GLI Logistics Fund

Tyrus Capital

Tulin Capital B.V.

Harbour Lending Limited

Mirastar

Topland Group

ICG Longbow

Santander UK plc

Consero Holdings Limited

M7 Capital

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP‘s real estate finance group acts for a range of lenders, including UK clearing banks, international lenders, insurance companies and debt funds. The team is highly adept at handling asset management mandates, as well as complex development and structuring work, and green finance deals. William Oliver heads up the practice and acts for both lenders and borrowers. Frances Mallender is also a name of note and supports clients with senior debt, investment and development finance, and restructurings in the hotel, student accommodation, and healthcare sectors. Lyndsey Mitchell was promoted to senior associate in May 2022 and Meherzad Bilimoria to legal director.

Practice head(s):

William Oliver

Other key lawyers:

Frances Mallender; Sean Houlihan; Lyndsey Mitchell; Meherzad Bilimoria

Testimonials

‘Experienced, highly skilled practice that provides service, support and advice to a very high standard.’

‘Sean Houlihan has a detailed knowledge of Property law and his advice is always technically and commercially sound, and crucially, he recommends appropriate solutions to resolve issues satisfactorily.’

Key clients

HSBC UK Bank plc

National Westminster Bank plc

AAReal Bank AG

National Bank of Kuwait

Homes England

Brightbay Real Estate Partners

Concord Pacific

Wells Fargo

SACO Property Group

Sir Richard Sutton Limited

Hines

Lendlease

Emerites NBD Bank

AIMCO

Pension Insurance Corporation plc

Westminster County Council

Lambeth Council

Work highlights

  • Acting for the syndicate of banks that lend to London Square Developments Limited.
  • Acted for Brightbay on their consolidated hotel financing with Santander UK plc.

Slaughter and May

Slaughter and May is increasingly active in sustainable financing mandates, in addition to handling acquisitions, restructurings and amendments in the hotel, student accommodation and residential spaces. Matthew Tobin heads up the practice, and Caroline Phillips advises clients across a range of real estate finance matters, including securitisation mandates and acquisition finance in the insurance, property, chemicals and energy sectors. Kevin Howes was promoted to the partnership in May 2022.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Tobin

Other key lawyers:

Caroline PhillipsKevin Howes

Testimonials

‘Matthew Tobin has an incredible knowledge of not just the transactions, but of the client’s sector and company. He is always adding value to every deal.’

Key clients

Barratt Developments

Derwent London

Dobbies Garden Centres

Fattal Hotels

Halsbury Homes

Landsec

SEGRO

Unite

Workspace

Work highlights

  • Advised Derwent London plc on its inaugural green bond on the Main Market and the Sustainability Market of the London Stock Exchange.
  • 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 at the Silverstone Grand Prix Park to be managed by Hilton Garden Inn.
  • Advised SEGRO plc on the issuance of EUR500m 0.500% Green Bonds due 22 September 2031.

Stephenson Harwood

Stephenson Harwood‘s property finance team acts on a range of investment and development financing mandates for lenders, borrowers, and other related stakeholders across the full range of asset classes. The practice is also strong in supporting overseas investors on their in-bound acquisition and development of UK property. James Linforth heads up the group and acts for lenders and borrowers on development and acquisition financings. Paul Hayward-Surry has strong relationship with lenders in the commercial real estate and hotel and leisure sectors, Jonathan Proctor handles mandates with a cross-border element, and George Vaughton advises banks and non-bank lenders on syndicated finance matters.

Practice head(s):

James Linforth

Other key lawyers:

Paul Hayward-Surry; Jonathan Proctor; George Vaughton

Testimonials

‘The comfort of strong partner input and an excellent team of seniors and associates, provides client confidence.’ 

Good collaboration between SH teams to address issues and provide solutions to close transactions.’

‘Pragmatic in their approach and keen to simplify matters wherever possible.’

‘James Linforth is very client focused and will ensure his attendance and collaborative skills are available at all stages of the closing process.’

Key clients

Wells Fargo

ING

Canada Life

Barings Real Estate

Schroders plc

Bank Leumi plc

Aver Property L.P.

The Royal Bank of Scotland

NatWest

Coutts

RBSI

Firethorn Trust

BACB plc

OCBC

Work highlights

  • Advised Barings Real Estate on the £87.8m refinancing of Wellington Place, 5 asset multi-let office complex in Leeds, for the international business of Federated Hermes and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board.
  • Acted for Bayern LB in connection with a £66.5m term loan facility made available by Bayerische Landesbank to fund the acquisition of the property known as 14 Ryder Street, London.
  • Advising ING as mandated lead arranger, senior lender and agent on a £177m whole-loan and related intercreditor arrangements with a junior lender advised by Global Holdings.

Alston & Bird LLP

Alston & Bird LLP has a broad client base, including domestic, Asian and US banks, debt funds and alternative lenders, as well as borrowers, investors, facility agents, and trustees. The team handles the acquisition, investment and development of offices, retail and industrial parks, hotels, student accommodation, and residential properties across the UK and Europe. Andrew Petersen and James Spencer jointly lead the practice; Peterson is strong in real estate private equity and private debt matters, and Spencer advises clients on development and structured finance transactions. Senior associate Thomas Dunn is another name of note, and he acts for banks, private equity firms, financial institutions, arrangers, and bond issuers.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Petersen; James Spencer

Other key lawyers:

Thomas Dunn

Testimonials

‘The team has good collaboration and innovation.’

‘Highly knowledgeable and experienced team.’

‘Easy to work with.’

‘Andrew Petersen and James Spencer are commercial in their approach to serving clients without compromising on quality and with an enviable industry network.’

‘Tom Dunn is an excellent real estate finance associate.’

‘James Spencer is very personable, knowledgeable and practical.’

Key clients

Blackrock

Mount Street Mortgage Servicing Limited

Investec Bank PLC

Quadrant Real Estate Advisors LLC

BlackRock Investment Management Limited

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China London

Trimont Real Estate Advisors

Work highlights

  • Acted for Blackrock as lender and Mount Street as facility agent and security agent on the amend and restate of a real estate finance facility secured over a hotel portfolio in West London.
  • Acted for Investec as lender on the amendment of a real estate finance facility secured over a portfolio of properties across the UK and Scotland.
  • Advised Trimont as agent and security agent in relation to three loans included in the Starz CRE CLO, the first European CRE CLO.

Bird & Bird LLP

Bird & Bird LLP‘s real estate finance team benefits from the firm’s international presence; with offices situated across Asia and Europe enabling the London team to undertake domestic and cross-border mandates often involving senior, mezzanine and preferential equity structures. Whilst the team has experience advising on a wide range of asset classes, it is particularly notable in the hotel sector, as well as advising clients on data centres and logistic assets. It is also strong on inbound real estate investment. Practice head James Salford has extensive expertise in the hotel finance sector and Jonathan Baker is a notable name.

Practice head(s):

James Salford

Other key lawyers:

Jonathan Baker; Charlie White

Testimonials

‘The team is experienced in Real Estate and Hotel Finance and take a practical and commercial view to the benefit of transaction management.’

‘A hugely personable team offering expert advice in a commercial manner.’

‘Great communication and detailed explanations of key points, plus a real drive to get the deal done and hit set deadlines.’

‘What set’s the team apart from others is without doubt, reliability.’

‘Clients can rely on Bird & Bird on all transactions we engage on, from fee quote, to quality of advice, speed and commerciality, and customer service.’

‘James Salford and Charles White work excellently as a team, are always available and offer commercial opinions.’

‘Jonathan Baker is a go-to lawyer for trust and professionalism.’

‘James Salford is highly knowledgeable and experienced within the Hotel Finance sector and a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Aareal Bank AG

Bank Leumi

Bank of Ireland

Bank of London and The Middle East plc

Credit Suisse Ltd

Dominvs Group

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China

KSL Capital Partners

Mizrahi Tefahot Bank

National Bank of Kuwait

Oaknorth Bank

Paragon Development Finance

Precis Group

RO Group

Santander

Shawbrook Bank

Work highlights

  • Advising KSL Capital on the financing of the acquisition of The Belfry Hotel & Resort by Goldman Sachs.
  • Advising Aareal Bank on a term facility to the London & Regional Group in relation to the Nobu Hotel London Portman Square.
  • Advising Oaknorth Bank on a £52m facility to the 4C Hotels group to refinance the Westin London.

Brecher LLP

Brecher LLP advises both lenders and developers, including alternative lenders and disrupters, and developers and family offices, on syndicated, senior and mezzanine loans for hotels and student accommodation projects. Richard Gilchrist leads the property finance group alongside the head of secured lending, Michelle Brown, and the head of banking, Redmond Byrne. Gilchrist advises on acquisition and development finance transactions in the residential, mixed use, student, and retirement living sectors and Byrne advises lenders and borrowers on residential developments. Charles Bezzant is skilled in development projects.

Other key lawyers:

Charles Bezzant; Kate George; Sakis Tombolis; Penelope Cockburn-Upward; Rob Willox

Testimonials

‘Brecher has a long history of acting for property lenders and the team reflect that experience, having a wealth of knowledge and expertise across the range of transaction types. They also know and have often acted for many of the participants in the market and that market knowledge is also very valuable.’

‘What distinguishes Brecher LLP from other law firm is their competitive pricing, a strong understanding of lenders’ requirements, their commercial view point on difficult points of negotiation, and open and transparent communication.’

‘Michelle Brown and Kate George have a commercial view point on risks, in-depth knowledge on legal matters affecting the industry, and are good at maintaining a high degree of professionalism.’

Key clients

West One Loans

The Enra Group Limited

A.S.K. Partners Limited

Avenue Capital

Castle Trust Capital Plc

Close Brothers Limited

Commercial Acceptances

Concord London Limited

Downing LLP

Featherstone Homes Limited

Glenhawk Financial Services

Hampshire Trust Bank Plc

Heritable Development Finance Limited

Ironbridge Finance

James Taylor Homes Group Limited

Jordan International Bank plc

LendWell Limited

Masthaven Bank Limited

Montreaux Developments Limited

National Westminster Bank Plc

Paragon Development Finance Limited

Pluto Finance

Puma Property Finance

QIB plc

Rippon Homes Ltd

Shawbrook Bank Limited

The Mezz Lending Company

United Trust Bank Limited

Wigmore Bridging & Finance Limited

Zorin Finance Limited

Maslow Capital LLP

Work highlights

  • Acted for Marylebone Square Developments on a £160m development financing at Concord London for a whole city block development in Marylebone W1.
  • Acted for United Trust Bank on a £31.5m development loan to Regal Homes to build a mixed use scheme with 58 housing units and 26,500 sq ft of commercial floorspace in Hackney.
  • Acted for Shawbrook Bank on a development loan to Torsion Care on a £12.5m loan to build 64 retirement apartments in Derby.

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP acts for lenders and borrowers on property finance transactions across a wide array of sectors, including healthcare, student accommodation, logistics, residential, data centres and commercial real estate. The team also has particular strengths in handling structured private wealth transactions. Paul Kay leads the team with expertise in debt and equity financing, structured finance, asset-based lending, and securitisations, and Daniel Sullivan is also strong in the structured finance space. Jon Bond is notable for having ‘a top-level understanding of legal and commercial issues'.

Practice head(s):

Paul Kay

Other key lawyers:

Daniel Sullivan; James Bateman; Jon BondIsobel Young-Herries

Testimonials

‘Very helpful and prompt in providing advice and guidance.’

‘Their ability to respond on difficult matters is invaluable.’

‘They act as a team to find solutions and provide support.’

‘James Bateman deals with property finance requirements very well.’

‘Jon Bond is excellent to work with. He has a top-level understanding of legal and commercial issues and uses this to not only protect the client’s position, but to also find solutions.’

‘Jon Bond’s willingness to engage and talk through issue is second to none. His calm and helpful demeanor is a great source of comfort with some very difficult issues.’

‘Impressive service from Daniel Sullivan.’

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 Speciality Finance on two transactions valued at £160m.
  • Advised Topland Group on over £50m worth of deals.
  • Advised Gulf Islamic Investments on its second high-end residential development in the London market.

Clyde & Co

Chris Lenton chairs the real estate finance group at Clyde & Co with particular expertise in mixed-use developments. The practice is highly adept at handling debt finance, as well as development finance, acquisitions, onshore and offshore investment mandates, and Islamic finance. The team has capabilities in cross-border Shari’ah compliant transactions, and with offices across the UK, the team also has a strong national presence. Adil Hussain leads the Islamic finance practice from Dubai, and Annabelle Redman is a notable team member, advising domestic and international investors. Norman Fraser joined the firm in 2021 from REN Legal.

Practice head(s):

Chris Lenton

Testimonials

‘Impressive depth and breadth of knowledge, flexibility and reactiveness.’

‘Personable, friendly and approachable.’

‘The team is always very responsive, helpful and willing to think outside the box to try and find acceptable and workable solutions.’

Key clients

Regal London

Secure Bank Trust

Marcol Group

OakNorth Bank plc

Roundshield Partners

Freshwater Group

One 55 Fenchurch

Bank of London & the Middle East plc

ABC International Bank plc

Aldgate Developments

U&I Group Plc

Lai Sun Developments Ltd

Lendinvest

Urban & Civic

Montreaux Limited

British Arab Commercial Bank

New Era Developments

Urbo Limited

Vita

Select

Work highlights

  • Advised Regal London on the £128.225m financing of a complex, connected development arrangements for two apartment buildings consisting of 112 private residential flats and 170 social and affordable flats for a charity which involved multiple stakeholders.
  • Advised OakNorth Bank plc on the £50m financing of a portfolio of care homes located across the UK for the Care Concern Group, including a £9.5m add-on facility to fund the acquisition and development of a care home in Aberdeen.
  • Advised the purchasers on a £81.2m funding from Aviva in relation to the acquisition of a property portfolio and simultaneous refinancing of existing property portfolio totalling 23 multi let estates with a combined value of £130m.

DWF

DWF‘s real estate team is well-known for advising clearing banks, and is increasingly acting for alternative banks and non-bank lenders on residential and commercial development funding and portfolio matters, especially in the student accommodation, hotel and leisure spaces. The team additionally benefits from the firm’s strong national presence. Simon Elphick heads up the real estate team whilst Brendan Slack leads the banking side for the national real estate team. Simon Sharp joined the firm from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner in November 2021 to jointly lead the banking team.

Testimonials

‘Very good at communicating. They are all very professional and really know their stuff.’

‘Able to advise on a range of asset classes.’

‘Experienced individuals, responsive to needs, and always keep the client updated.’

Farrer & Co

The real estate finance group at Farrer & Co is highly adept at advising commercial lenders and private banks, as well as real estate funds, high-net-worth individuals, developers, and charities. The group assists these clients with investment and development finance mandates. Martin Blake heads the practice with a thriving practice involving commercial and residential property finance transactions and development and acquisition financing. Other notable members include Bethan Waters, who focuses on the banking side of transactions; Simon Graham, who advises both borrowers and lenders; and Marc Glancy, who is strong in secured lending matters.

Practice head(s):

Martin Blake

Other key lawyers:

Bethan WatersSimon GrahamMarc Glancy

Testimonials

‘The Farrer team has strong expertise in real estate matters and never relies only on one individual. In case of absences, the hand overs are smooth so that there is continuity in the coverage. They provide clear guidance to the bank not only on the legal matters, but also when looking at the operational and commercial aspects.’

‘Experts in complex landed estate and trust structures. The team work well together to find solutions and communicate their thought process and decisions clearly.’

‘The quality of their service and the constant level of the service regardless of the contact person are praiseworthy. The lawyers have a good ability to find solutions to tailor made requests.’

‘They are very responsive and always available when needed. Very professional and dedicated.’

‘Commercial, pragmatic and practical advice on when a point is important and when to concede.’

‘Relationships are always very personable and professional at the same time. The various colleagues always demonstrate an extremely high level of knowledge.’

‘The individuals are incredibly approachable and friendly, but also very professional in their approach.’

‘Martin Blake is very hands on and will step in when he feels there are more difficult situations to discuss and assist the bank in the decision process for pragmatic solutions that never jeopardise the bank’s legal position.’

Key clients

Coutts & Co

C. Hoare & Co

Deutsche Bank

Lloyds Bank plc

Royal Bank of Canada

Rothschild & Co Wealth Management UK Limited

Triodos Bank NV

Arbuthnot Latham & Co., Ltd

OakNorth Bank PLC

Citibank

Work highlights

  • Advised Coutts & Co on a comprehensive refinancing of a rural estate involving both loan facilities made available to an individual in his personal capacity as well as trustee of a will trust.
  • Advised Deutsche Bank in relation to the refinancing of four cross collateralised facilities totalling £37.65m in aggregate.
  • Advised Coutts & Co on an amendment and restatement of an existing facility secured by a luxury hotel in the Cotswolds in order to refinance an existing facility and to facilitate further investment for capital expenditure.

Freeths LLP

Freeths LLP predominantly acts for borrower investment and development companies, private equity and infrastructure funds, and lenders. The team is strong in handling debt finance in the healthcare and student accommodation sectors, as well as mixed-use and residential development projects. Richard Williams leads the team and has particular expertise in mezzanine and development finance matters, and Chris Freeston heads the firm’s national banking and finance team, and is active in real estate finance projects. Ed Hall‘s practice focuses on development and regeneration projects, acting for alternative lenders as well as clearing banks.

Practice head(s):

Richard Williams

Other key lawyers:

Chris Freeston; Louise Kelly; Ed Hall

Testimonials

‘Absolutely brilliant knowledge and service!’

‘Superb all-round service.’

‘Fantastic attention to detail and great responsiveness to client needs.’

‘Richard Williams has excellent attention to detail and fantastic negotiation skills.’

‘Chris Freeston is excellent from simple to very complex work.’

‘Louise Kelly has an incredible work rate and output.’

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

Allica Bank

Hill Dickinson LLP

Hill Dickinson LLP‘s real estate finance practice is led by Jim Garton, who has particular expertise in the development of hotels and leisure arenas. The team is supported by the firm’s national and international offices, and advises both lenders and borrowers on development finance mandates which can involve cross-border elements. Sectors of strength for the group include energy, logistics, transport, retail, healthcare, financial services and hotels and leisure. Richard Taylor and senior associate Emma McIntosh are also of note.

Practice head(s):

Jim Garton

Other key lawyers:

Richard TaylorEmma McIntosh

Testimonials

‘A very capable firm.’

‘Highly experienced team of banking lawyers supported by a large and capable property practice.’

‘The team is highly commercial and able to absorb and condense complex real estate deals and provide concise and targeted advice.’

Key clients

Paragon Development Finance Limited

Santander

Espalier Property Ventures

HSBC

Ingenious Real Estate

Wildhorn Investments Limited

NatWest

Work highlights

  • Acting for FTSE 250 company Paragon Development Finance on various development funding matters across the UK, including acting for the lender in relation to its involvement in the £50m luxury Trent Bridge Quays waterside development in Nottingham.
  • Acting for a client in connection with the development funding for a key site near the Oval 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.
  • Acted for Paragon Development Finance Limited in respect of phase 1 of the development of Chilmington Green, a secondary school, four primary schools, a supermarket and a new high street and market square near Ashford in Kent.

Howard Kennedy LLP

Howard Kennedy LLP acts for investors, developers and commercial lenders across a broad range of real estate finance matters, including senior and mezzanine debt, investment and development finance, and bridging finance. The team also handles a variety of asset classes, from office, logistics, retail and hotels to student accommodation. Steve Clinning is head of the banking and real estate finance team; Nada Jarnaz leads the banking team and also has a thriving Islamic finance practice; and Marcus Jamson is head of structured finance. Recently promoted legal director Hannah Place is also of note with a strong insolvency law background.

Other key lawyers:

Hannah Place; Laura Brown

Testimonials

‘The team is extremely responsive, very practical, diligent, commercial and very user-friendly. They are also extremely knowledgeable and do not get bogged down in minutiae.’

‘They have excellent client handling skills and have the ability to manage complex property finance transactions with ease. They are a pleasure to deal with.’

‘Full-service firm that acts across the whole breadth of the property finance market. They support clients across the smallest transactions all the way up to £50m. They continue to provide an outstanding service and the highest quality work, whilst also acting commercially and prudently.’

‘They have gone beyond expecations in supporting and understanding the client’s business.’

‘Consistency of quality across the team’s advice and support goes beyond just explanation of the legal points.’

‘Of particular stand out is Laura Brown who consistently goes above and beyond in providing excellent service and work of the highest quality.’

‘Steve Clinning is always contactable and easy to deal with, and makes significant effort to support his clients.’

‘Nada Jarnaz is pragmatic and easy to deal with and is extremely responsive and very practical. Nada is diligent, commercial and very user-friendly. She is simply a very good lawyer who is also extremely knowledgeable and does not get bogged down in minutiae.’

Key clients

Octopus Real Estate

Santander Bank plc

Arbuthnot Latham & Co., Limited

EVH Finance Limited

Puma Property Finance

LendInvest

Rothschild & Co

City & Docklands

Galliard Homes

Southern Grove Real Estate

GRE Finance Limited

Work highlights

  • Represented Octopus Real Estate in relation to the financing of a portfolio of caravan sites in the West Country and the financing of a large development site in Swindon.
  • Represented LendWell Funding 1 Limited in the financing of the acquisition of a large shopping centre in Barnet, North London.

Ropes & Gray

The real estate finance team at Ropes & Gray is led by David Seymour and Sam Norris and handles high-end transactions for a range of clients, especially portfolio financings and loan repurchase structures with international elements. Will Bryant was promoted to partner during the review period and Andrew Baker joined the team in August 2021 from Brown Rudnick LLP and has wide-ranging expertise, from development financings and infrastructure acquisition deals, to hotel and residential financings and real estate backed debt capital market structures.

Practice head(s):

David Seymour; Sam Norris

Other key lawyers:

Will Bryant; Andrew Baker

Testimonials

‘The team really understand that work starts with a deal and so where possible, not only do their provide good commercial advice through a deal, but they also help generate the deals, which is a rare find amongst the community of real estate finance lawyers.’

‘Andrew Baker and Samuel Norris are both exceptionally helpful lawyers who truly add value to a deal process.’

Key clients

Blackstone Mortgage Trust

Blackstone Real Estate Debt Strategies Fund

Partners Group

Cathexis Investment Management

Intermediate Capital Group

QuadReal

Bridgepoint Development Capital

Sixth Street

Bain Capital Credit

King Street Capital Management

Work highlights

  • Advised the London-based real estate team of Sixth Street, on the refinancing of its portfolio of 15 office buildings within a large office campus in the Western Corridor of Lisbon, Portugal.
  • Advised a family office client on an ongoing basis on the development and financing of a large hyperscale, build to suit data centres.
  • Advises a leading global asset management firm in respect of a series of multi-billion-dollar loan repurchase and securitisation structures across multiple jurisdictions.

Trowers & Hamlins LLP

Trowers & Hamlins LLP has a growing private sector real estate finance offering, which includes both lenders and borrowers. The team is particularly adept at handling social housing finance and public sector finance, as well as transactions involving assets in the healthcare, hotels and leisure, student accommodation and logistics sectors. Adrian Carter sits at the helm of the department, which is also home to property finance specialist Eddie O’Hanrahan, who advises developers, sponsors, funds and offshore trusts on domestic and cross-border transactions, especially regarding development finance. Banking and finance lawyer Katharine Lewis is also of note, and supports clients on Shari’ah complaint transactions.

Practice head(s):

Adrian Carter

Other key lawyers:

Eddie O’Hanrahan; Dale Moulden; Jon Grosvernor; Katharine Lewis

Testimonials

‘The team has a diverse range of expertise in property finance, with a good breath of knowledge and experience. The commercial awareness of the team and ability to think about and pre-empt client needs and business sensitivities is excellent.’

‘As well as being very easy to work with, the Trowers & Hamlins team are really strong and experienced in cross border financing transactions involving inward investment into UK real estate, particularly development structures and Islamic finance.’

‘They are always communicative and responsive, and they are generally a pleasure to work with.’

‘Katharine Lewis provides clear instructions on offshore pieces and is always available to discuss matters. She keeps the client updated on timing and expectations (including on fees) which is greatly appreciated. Katharine is very personable, knowledgeable and a pleasure to deal with.’

‘Katharine Lewis is calm, organised, and leads from the front.’

‘Katharine is an excellent lawyer with close attention to detail and the ability to think broadly about all pertinent issues. She is a very effective project manager and is reliable and consistent.’

‘Dale Moulden is excellent in Islamic finance transactions.’

‘Eddie O’Hanrahan and Jon Grosvernor both deliver excellent service.’

Key clients

Third.i Group

Apache Capital Partners

Audley Group

Vistry

Global Net Lease Inc.

Affordable Housing & Healthcare Group

Urban Logistics REIT PLC

Shawbrook Bank Limited

EcoWorld

Peabody Trust

Swanton Care & Community Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising US REIT Global Net Lease on the financing of its £170M purchase of the McLaren F1 Campus in Surrey.
  • Advising Third.i Group on a £128m loan facility arranged by Cheyne Capital for the acquisition and development of Graphite Square, London SE11.
  • Advising Apache Capital on a multi-staged financing for the acquisition and development of a 564 unit build to rent scheme.

Blake Morgan LLP

The real estate finance team at Blake Morgan LLP is adept at handling development finance, secured and portfolio lending and agricultural finance. The group is on a number of panels for UK clearing banks, as well as retail and investment banks and private banks. Tony Coyne leads the practice with a strong emphasis on secured lending, acting for banks, public and private sector clients, and individuals based in the Far East. Sophie Shaladi has a growing Islamic finance practice, and the group offers clients Shariah-compliant finance facilities.

Practice head(s):

Tony Coyne

Other key lawyers:

Sophie Shaladi

Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP

Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP advises both lenders and corporate clients on UK and pan-European real estate finance matters involving a range of asset classes, including hotels, commercial and residential building complexes, and healthcare and logistics centres. Duncan Hubbard leads the team and is strong in single asset transactions and international development portfolios. Associates William Lo and Livia Li are also key team members.

Practice head(s):

Duncan Hubbard

Other key lawyers:

William Lo; Livia Li

Testimonials

‘This team dedicates themselves to absolute client service and are available at immediate notice to revert on challenging and new issues arising on a dynamic basis.’

‘They are responsive and bring a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise.’

‘The team shows incredible professionalism, exceptional capabilities, vast knowledge of best market practice, and most importantly, value for money for the organisation.’

‘Cadwalader can deliver high standard deliverables while maintaining a good fee.’

‘The more important part to note from Cadwalader is the ease of working and doing business with them, and easily coordinating among different stakeholders.’

‘Very innovative team, solution-oriented and flexible.’

‘Very experienced staff in the field of real estate financing – very cooperative.’

‘William Lo is easily contactable via email or phone at any time of the day, and assists wherever required in with different departments from within the company, such as compliance, legal, risk teams, as well as the lenders.’

Key clients

Invesco Real Estate

Wells Fargo

Employee Provident Fund

AEW

Münchener Hypothekenbank eG

Civitas

Work highlights

  • Advised Invesco Real Estate on the financing of its acquisition of the Fort Shopping Park in Birmingham, UK.

Druces LLP

Druces LLP is well-known for undertaking Sharia-compliant financing matters for clients, and also acts for syndicators of investment property. The team additionally handles bespoke transactions for banks and other lenders. Christopher Axford and senior associate Antony Cotton jointly lead the real estate finance practice and both have strengths in Islamic financing. Suzanne Middleton Lindsley is also notable in the development finance space, acting for international banks, funds, syndicates and high-net-worth individuals.

Practice head(s):

Christopher Axford; Antony Cotton

Other key lawyers:

Suzanne Middleton Lindsley; Rebecca Pinder

Testimonials

‘Both Anthony Cotton and Rebecca Pinder are able to quickly highlight the potential points of contention in documentation.’

‘A collaborative and well-read team.’

Key clients

Bank of London and the Middle East Plc

Denizbank AS, Turkey

ICICI Bank UK PLC

Bank of China Ltd

Astute Capital plc

Propiteer Capital plc

Work highlights

  • Advising the Bank of London and the Middle East on a broad range of its Property Finance transactions.

Edwin Coe LLP

Commercial, investment, development and residential finance are core areas of focus for the real estate finance team at Edwin Coe LLP. The group acts for private banks, specialist lenders, and European banks, as well as high-net-worth individuals, private equity funds and family offices on the borrower side. Practice head Stephen Brower supports banks on development finance mandates and advises on loans to high-net-worth individuals. Dual qualified in England and Wales and Scotland, Joanne McIvor has expertise in acting for a wide range of lenders. James Walton and senior associate Neil Flynn joined the team from Rosling King in 2021.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Brower

Other key lawyers:

Joanne McIvorJames WaltonNeil Flynn

Testimonials

‘A team of extremely experienced real estate finance lawyers providing practical and commercial advice to clients, breaking down complicated legal jargon into bitesize and digestible nuggets, and a nice bunch of people too.’

‘A can do attitude with direct access to Partners making transactions easy to proceed with.’

‘Edwin Coe is a very pro-active firm, providing professional advice and guidance to lenders. While they point out the risks, the team also give “in practice” guidance.’

Key clients

Clearwell Capital Group

Mount Street Mortgage Servicing Limited

Handlesbanken

Havin Bank Ltd

Hennessy Jones

Maybank Berhad

Riyad Bank

Waterman Group

Work highlights

  • Advised Mount Street Mortgage Servicing Limited in connection with a high profile £300m acquisition of a non-performing loan portfolio from Natwest, secured on UK shopping centres.
  • Advised an overseas build to rent developer in connection with the £16m financing of a 127 unit BTR scheme in Manchester.
  • Advising NatWest Bank on the £10m finance of residential portfolio in south east England.

GSC Solicitors LLP

GSC Solicitors LLP is active in refinancing mandates for clients in the retail, hospitality and care home sectors, as well as for high-net-worth individuals with extensive residential portfolios. Peter Belcher sits at the helm of the practice, advising on acquisition and development finance matters. Matthew Phillips is also of note for his work in secured lending for fast food franchise owners and commercial tenants.

Practice head(s):

Peter Belcher

Other key lawyers:

Matthew Phillips; Carole Joseph

Testimonials

‘The team works closely with its clients and is very responsive, keeps confidentiality at all times and seems client oriented.’

‘The team is extremely effective and solved various challenging issues in order to meet very short deadlines.’

‘GSC Solicitors are extremely well reputed in this sector and able to understand the clients requirements and the requirements of the financial institution. They understand property and have rich expertise in this sector.’

‘Problem solvers – the team appreciates the commerciality aspect and is able to focus on what makes a difference rather than irrelevant legal points.’

‘Personalised service and availability, commercially focused, and long-term relationships built.’

‘Peter Belcher is well respected amongst financial institutions which gives banks the comfort they need.’

‘Carole Joseph has great availability; clients love to work with her, and she is commercially oriented.’

‘Carole Joseph shows incredible productivity and professionalism in day-to-day support.’

Hamlins LLP

Hamlins LLP‘s real estate finance team has a broad client base, acting for high-street banks, niche lenders, opportunistic funds, and developers, as well as high-net-worth individuals and family offices. The team also handles development financing of a wide range of asset classes, including student accommodation, hotels, and high end residential developments and apartments. Russian and English speaking Aselle Djumabaeva-Wood chairs the group and specialises in secured lending, acting for banks, property investors and developers. She also practises law in the Kyrgyz Republic.

Practice head(s):

Aselle Djumabaeva-Wood

Testimonials

‘Hamlins’ Property Finance team is one of the best.’

‘They have a vast technical knowledge and are always able and willing to support clients on any matter.’

‘The partners are easy to reach and always make themselves available.’

‘Their team is a well-rounded combination of experts that work like a single wheel for a seamless execution of the matter in hand.’

‘Aselle is an inspirational leader! She is extremely talented, knowledgeable, composed, engaged and can manage anything you throw at her and her team. She is highly efficient and the quality of her work is never disappointing. I am always pleased and at ease if she is involved, regardless on which side of a transaction she is on.’

Key clients

Bangkok Bank Pcl

Palace Capital Plc

James Taylor Group

Shaviram Group

Silvertown Group

Work highlights

  • Acted for a group of property investment and development companies owned by a high net worth family on 18 transactions undertaken over 12 months.
  • Acted for Bangkok Bank Pcl in relation to credit facilities to a UK borrower, a parent company guarantee from an English company in relation to revolving credit facilities to its subsidiary in Thailand, buy-to-let mortgages to HNW Thai individuals, as well as transitioning the Bank’s loans from LIBOR to SONIA.
  • Acted for Shaviram Group on a number of loans, including a development loan from a niche lender and a refinance of 2 properties in South East England with PRS Finance Plc.

K&L Gates LLP

K&L Gates LLP‘s team is adept at handling structured real estate finance transactions and CMBS deals. The practice is well-positioned to handle cross-border deals, with offices situated in the UK, Germany, France and Italy. Richard Hardwick is head of the group with substantial experience handling development finance transactions for financial parties, sponsors and borrowers. Promoted to partner in March 2022, Michael Anderson is also recommended for syndication and restructuring of real estate debt, acting for both lenders and borrowers.

Practice head(s):

Richard Hardwick

Other key lawyers:

Michael Anderson

Testimonials

‘The team at K&L are excellent. They go above and beyond to assist with every transaction and are always available to offer assistance.’

‘The entire team is very approachable, knowledgeable and extremely hard working; they are always willing to go the extra mile to help.’

‘Very accessible, willing and able to give high quality advice at any time. Able to navigate and propose good solutions to complex problems and work efficiently and effectively to tight deadlines.’

‘The team are very experienced in property finance transactions, with a high level of understanding of the Banks documentation requirements.’

‘Richard Hardwick is extremely thorough when drafting the Banks loan documentation and the changes needed to align with the Banks requirements are always minimal.’

‘Richard Hardwick is very approachable with excellent legal knowledge and commercial understanding. He is excellent at drilling down to the core of matters and giving clear, pragmatic advice.’

‘Richard Hardwick is the lead partner and he always ensures matters are progressed efficiently and makes himself available for key discussions. His support team are always of high calibre.’

‘Richard is great to work with. Very client focussed.’

Key clients

Trust Inns

UK Retail Warehouse Fund

Patrizia AG

Home House Collection

Work highlights

  • Advised Trust Inns in connection with a refinancing of its £30m facilities secured on its estate of over 350 pubs across England, Wales and Scotland.
  • Acted for a London branch of a foreign bank in relation to the rescheduling and restructuring of a £40m development financing of a property in London.
  • Advised Patrizia AG in relation to the £55m financing for the acquisition of “The Residences” BTR scheme in the Edgbaston district of central Birmingham.

Maples Teesdale LLP

Maples Teesdale LLP is a specialist real estate firm acting for major banks, debt funds, and alternative lenders on investment and development deals involving retail, office, hotels, student accommodation, PRS and industrial assets. The ‘exceptional’ Rohan Campbell leads the team, advising lenders and borrowers on a range of mandates, and Zoe Miller is also a notable team member.

Practice head(s):

Rohan Campbell

Other key lawyers:

Katherine Gardner; Zoe Miller

Testimonials

‘The Maples Teesdale team is efficient and communicative – even in the course of busy transactions, they are focused on ensuring that their services and advice are presented in a clear and concise fashion. As a client, it makes it very easy to work with the team.’

‘The team will respond promptly to any new request for work and their communication is clear and straightforward. All important matters are address head-on and with a mind-set to resolve them commercially.’

‘The team from partner to junior all know the latest market practice and are able to implement it. They raise good questions and find resolutions.’

‘The team is diverse, friendly and efficient. The banking and property teams are one and the same. They all have the same expertise; you do not waste time trying to facilitate communication between teams.’

‘Rohan Campbell is an exceptional partner with a team trained to the highest level. He responds promptly to requests, is clear about the work involved, commercially minded about finding resolutions to deal with issues and raising pertinent questions that help resolve any issues up front.’

‘For property-backed loans, there is no better law firm in England & Wales. You can always reach Rohan and talk through an issue with him and get it resolved immediately or within hours. The level of service provided is exceptional.’

‘Katherine Gardner and Zoe Miller are excellent. Friendly, direct, efficient and able to find solutions to complex property lending issues within a short period of time. They provided a full set of excellent loan documentation within a day with security the following day.’

‘Rohan Campbell is capable and experienced, he is keen to find innovative solutions to unusual structuring and diligence issues.’

Key clients

AgFe

Bywater Properties

Cheyne Capital

Deutsche Hypo Nord LB Real Estate

Greenergy International Limited

ICICI Bank UK Plc

Investec

Lloyds Banking Group

Martin’s Properties

Maslow Capital

Patrizia

Pictet Real Estate Capital

Tristan Capital Partners

Memery Crystal (part of RBG Legal Services)

Memery Crystal (part of RBG Legal Services) has a growing development finance offering, and advises clients on leveraged, syndicated, and high-yield financing matters. Matthew Lindsay is head of the practice with expertise in structured and mezzanine financing. Other notable team members include Rumit Nanji, who has experience in bridging and second charge lending, and William Heywood, who was promoted to partner in May 2021 and acts for a wide range of lenders.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Lindsay

Other key lawyers:

Rumit Nanji; William Heywood

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 ASK on a number of residential, commercial and mixed-use financings.
  • Advising Ashtrom in relation to the acquisition of No. 8 First Street.
  • Advising a private client on the £43m refinancing of three mixed-use properties on Great Portland Street in London’s West End.

Shoosmiths LLP

Shoosmiths LLP handles investment and development, bilateral and syndicated, domestic and offshore and senior and mezzanine transactions across student accommodation, PRS, residential development, leisure, logistics, and retail. It acts for the UK clearing banks, senior debt funds, mezzanine lenders, local authorities, investment funds, and alternative and bridging lenders, as well as investors and developers on the borrower side. Based in London and Manchester, Liz Sweeney leads the team with substantial expertise in hotels, further education, and care homes. Chris Mills joined the firm from Osborne Clarke LLP in early 2022, while Tim McNamara joined CMS in January 2022.

Practice head(s):

Liz Sweeney

Other key lawyers:

Debra CooperChris Mills

Testimonials

‘All members of the team stand out by their reactivity and the quality of their work (spot on, patient and solution oriented).’

‘Knowledgeable, hands-on team lead by Liz Sweeny. They work very well with their property and construction colleagues.’

‘Liz Sweeney is organised and bright and can handle complex and sizeable matters.’

Key clients

Vita Cardiff Limited

Cinnamon Care Capital

Moorfield Group Limited

Edmond de Rothschild

Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority

Work highlights

  • Acted for Westfield on a £74m refinancing of their existing facilities with ICG Longbow  and the introduction of new mezzanine finance from Brydell Partners.
  • Assisted Terido LLP in relation to a bridging loan facility they provided to Aurora Care and Education Midco Limited, to refinance its existing indebtedness.
  • Acted for Coutts & Company on a £50.3m LMA REF investment facility agreement with Meritcape Limited in respect of a Grade A City of London office portfolio owned by Meritcape Limited.

Sidley Austin LLP

Sidley Austin LLP‘s real estate finance team has ‘excellent technical skills‘ and Emilie Stewart is strong on cross-border transactions and is praised as ‘a highly skilled technical lawyer’.

Other key lawyers:

Emilie Stewart

Testimonials

‘The team is fully committed to the transaction at stake and covers each possible legal angle. They are very devoted to the practice and fully available.’

‘Market leading property finance team.’

‘Excellent technical skills and commitment.’

‘Emilie Stewart is a highly skilled technical lawyer offering pragmatic solutions.’

Teacher Stern LLP

Teacher Stern LLP‘s team focuses on bilateral, syndicated and peer-to-peer facilities involving developments and property portfolios for borrowers and lenders. Islamic commodity finance transactions is also an area of strength for the group. Practice head Phil Berry specialises in finance, but additionally has expertise in construction, insolvency and enforcement matters. Claire Gibson is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Phil Berry

Testimonials

‘The Property Finance team delivers exceptional service to its clients.’

‘They are always a pleasure to work with; dedicated, commercial and personable.’

‘Claire Gibson understands what her clients need; she combines her wealth of knowledge with a commercial outlook to deliver a stellar service time and again.’

‘Associates Heledd Jones and Luke Shelley display the same great qualities as the partners heading the group. They are responsive, efficient and great assets to the team.’

‘Lorna Clarke is a pleasure to work with. Very responsive and commercial in her approach to transactions.’

‘Heledd Jones is an excellent lawyer. She is an expert in development finance and a pleasure to work with – friendly, efficient, responsive and always willing to go the extra mile to get a deal done. These combined qualities make her stand out.’

Key clients

Brydg Capital Limited

Emirates NBD Bank

Burger & Lobster

Limecourt Finance & Investments

Century Capital

Englander Group

Kenfin Holdings Limited

Westcity Property Group

Elyseum Finance S.C.A.

PRMO Properties

Aviv Holdings

Merchant Money Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Emirates NBD on the amendment and restatement of an LMA development facility for £62m.
  • Advised “Better Properties” group companies on a £108.6m refinance with NatWest Plc of a portfolio of properties located throughout the UK.
  • Advised group company borrowers on a refinance of an investment portfolio with Barclays Bank Plc for £122m.

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP  acts for UK clearing banks, alternative banks, and borrowers on development and investment loans regarding leisure centres, retail, trade parks and student accommodation. Charlie Reid leads the practice, while other notable individuals include Nicola Giddens and Will Fraser; Giddens, who has almost 20 years' experience, advises predominantly UK-based lenders, and Fraser assists clients investing into the UK.

Practice head(s):

Charlie Reid

Other key lawyers:

Nicola Giddens; Will Fraser

Testimonials

‘Good range of services with reasonable pricing – a one-stop shop for real estate finance requirements.’

‘Property and specialist rural sector knowledge.’

‘A very good team who were very proactive, very knowledgeable and excellent.’

‘The team were conscientious, proactive, and also excellent in the service they delivered and advice they gave.’

‘They tried to find practical and workable solutions, and not just “text book” answers.’

‘Will Fraser is commercial and pragmatic.’

‘Great service level, responsiveness, commercial sense and attention to detail.’

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

Moorfield

AG Quidnet

ICICI Bank UK plc

Investec

Hampden & Co plc

Apex Bridging

Coutts & Co

AgFe

Atelier Capital Partners Limited

Nash Business Capital Limited

HillTop Credit Limited

C Group Developments

Work highlights

  • Acting for the a syndicate of Banks relating to a £400m facility made available to property investment and development company, Helical plc.
  • Acting for a Syndicate relating to a £200m facility made available to a national house builder Hill Holdings Limited.
  • Acting for Lloyds Bank plc in relation to the continuing work associated with a £67m facility for the borrower and bringing into charge new assets.

Acuity Law

Thanks to a period of notable growth for the firm, Acuity Law recently expanded its national offering with the recruitment of Christopher Agius into the firm's Cardiff base alongside the addition of several associate-level names into the London office. The firm is a key name for lender clients and handles a range of investment and development financing mandates; it is also growing its borrower client base, particularly in the healthcare sector. Sam Clarke leads the practice from London, which also fields Edward Finley, Beverley Jones and James Kilgour.

Practice head(s):

Sam Clarke

Other key lawyers:

Christopher Agius; Edward FinleyBeverley JonesJames Kilgour; Damien Cann

Key clients

LifeCare Residences Limited

Principality Building Society

Warwick Capital Partners

Hodge Bank

Development Bank of Wales

Secure Trust Bank

Pure Commercial Finance

Handelsbanken

Zorin Finance Limited

Ingenious Real Estate Finance

Investec Bank plc

Choice Care Group

Portman Healthcare

Bates Wells

Bates Wells has notable expertise in acting in the charity and social enterprise sectors, and the team handles development finance projects regarding social housing, care homes, education and housing associations. Mark Traynor is head of the practice, and Malcolm Headley and finance lawyer Patrick Keown are also names of note.

Practice head(s):

Mark Traynor

Other key lawyers:

Malcolm Headley; Maisie Ireland; Patrick Keown

Testimonials

‘They do a good job.’

‘Good, practical advice. A sensible commercial approach proportionate to the transaction.’

‘Malcolm Headley is easy to talk to, accessible, offers solutions not problems, is aware of timescales and is proactive.’

‘Malcolm Headley and Maisie Ireland provide responsive, experienced, sound advice.’

‘Malcolm Headley is calm, communicative, transparent, professional, pragmatic and persoanble – a combination that is rarely matched.’

Key clients

Architectural Heritage Fund

Arbuthnot Latham

Big Issue Invest

Charity Bank

Coutts

Handelsbanken

Lloyds

Metro

Recognise Bank

Reliance

Santander

Triodos

UTB

Shelter

People Potential Possibilities

UK Sailing Association

GMS Estates Limited

FM Conway

Work highlights

  • Acting for Charity Bank in relation to a loan of £3.5m for the purposes of redeveloping an already-owned freehold site to create a new place of worship.
  • Acting for Triodos Bank in relation to a £11m loan for residential development.
  • Advising Unity Trust Bank plc in connection with a £3.5m refinance of five leasehold pharmacy properties in southeast London.

Boodle Hatfield LLP

Boodle Hatfield LLP‘s real estate finance team is strong in residential development and hotel financing mandates, as well as Sharia financing. The group acts for both lenders and borrowers, including high-net-worth individuals, privately-owned firms and private banks. Jonathan Hyndman leads the team after joining the team in December 2021 from Rosling King, and Rajeev Joshi is notable for his work in the hotel sector. Adam Chamberlain departed for Knights plc in July 2021.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Hyndman

Other key lawyers:

Rajeev Joshi

Testimonials

‘Small firm but very well resourced with individuals that are experienced enough to cross into lateral fields without any loss of expertise, rather than having very siloed teams.’

‘Dedicated and professional team.’

‘Highly skilled and professional.’

‘The Boodle Hatfield team are personable, commercial and efficient.’

‘They focus on finding solutions to problems and focus on completing transactions in the most commercial way possible, rather than getting stuck on legalese.’

‘From a client perspective, it is invaluable to have a partner that focusses on completing transactions in an efficient and commercial manner.’

‘Jonathan Hyndman is an excellent lawyer, who gives sound legal and commercial advice and always focusses on delivering the client’s objectives. He always agrees billing upfront and does not deviate unless their is a significant change in the transaction.’

‘Jonathan Hyndman is very astute at negotiating with the other side in a tactful manner. He takes on a commercial approach without compromising the client’s position.’

Key clients

A.S.K. Partners

Harcourt Investments

DKLM Solicitors

The real estate finance team at DKLM Solicitors is jointly led by Rupika Dawda, Mohi Uddin and Philip Li. The practice supports high-net-worth  individuals and families, as well as domestic owner-managed businesses and commercial clients. The team handles refinancings, acquisitions and development financing mandates, especially for bridging finance companies.

Practice head(s):

Rupika DawdaMohi Uddin; Philip Li

Testimonials

‘The team is highly professional with an in-depth understanding of complex transactions, multi-purchases and portfolio take overs. Billing is fair for the extremely high standard of work. The team is also well diversified.’

‘DKLM not only provide a thorough and knowledgeable legal perspective on matters, but uniquely, also keep their eye on the commercial implications. It is refreshing to work with a group of excellent property finance solicitors who can come up with innovative and creative solutions.’

‘DKLM are practical, professional and affordable. They provide a tailored service with experienced partners. They have resources from which they can draw even in the most complicated scenarios.’

‘DKLM LLP are a go-to firm for lending work. They never fail to deliver in terms of the quality of their legal advice or speed – not only are they incredibly efficient, but they are diligent and a very commercially aware law firm.’

‘Mohi Uddin is always on hand day and night, making the relationship solid.’                        

‘Whatever matter has been presented to Rupika Dawda, she deals with in a very efficient manner. She is always on hand and accessible, and a solution is always put forward.’

Rupika Dawda is a phenomenal lawyer, and it is her commercial awareness that makes her stand out from the crowd. She is able to give real, practical advice in relation to the risks business face and she believes in getting the deal done.’

‘Philip Li is highly focused and is always going the extra mile.’

Key clients

KSEYE Capital LLP

Redsky Homes Limited

Pluto Investments Limited

Market Financial Solutions Limited

TAB

Kuflink

Fraser Morgan Limited

PGI Properties Limited

Premium Quality Foods Limited

Tulip Hotels & Real Estate Limited

Avocado Developments Limited

Quintas Investments Limited

Kimberley Property Investment Limited

Bellevue Mortlakes

Work highlights

  • Acted for a lender in providing an £11m facility on behalf of KSEYE Capital LLP to a client whose ultimate beneficiaries were based in India.
  • Acted for a client on the purchase of a portfolio of 11 properties at auction for £2.9m.
  • Acted for Fraser Morgan on the development finance of a large site which involved creating 64 leases which were then charged as security for the development finance.

Glovers Solicitors LLP

Glovers Solicitors LLP‘s property finance group predominantly acts for lenders on residential development finance mandates, as well as restructurings and disposals. Darran Smith is head of the practice, acting for banks on a range of matters, whilst John Mills advises clients on funding residential and mixed-use UK developments. Liza Lam-Kee and Philip Mundy are also notable this area.

Practice head(s):

Darran Smith

Testimonials

‘The property banking team at Glovers are outstanding in all regards – expertise; experience; service; speed; value for money – and they are extremely nice people to deal with as well.’

‘This is a superbly managed and very expert property team. The partners and associates are all are very responsive and helpful. They generally stick closely to their initial fee quote and communicate regularly if their cost undertaking prove insufficient’

‘Glovers’ whole team approach means all matters are approached and advised on in a cohesive and collaborative way and we always have faith that every team member has the required knowledge and resources to resolve any point that may arise. 

‘The individuals are not only highly experienced and diligent – they are also incredibly easy to get on with. A good relationship with both clients and professionals is what sets good and great lawyers apart. A particular mention is needed for Darran Smith who has been exceptional since we have worked with him.’

‘The Glovers team are always proactive in managing any risks identified, and are able to understand how these can be mitigated and provide recommendations. They are also very accessible and receptive and nothing seems to much of a problem.’

‘Philip Mundy is efficient, professional, knowledgeable, approachable, personable and overall, a pleasure to work with.’

‘Liza Lam-Kee has extensive experience in property matters and a clear comprehension of the key areas to focus on in any given deal.’

‘Darran Smith and Liza Lam-Kee are both great to work with – highly professional, knowledgeable, pragmatic and approachable, and always available to discuss a particular issue. Quick response times to emails and calls returned promptly when initially unavailable.’

Key clients

Commercial Acceptances Limited

Close Brothers Limited

Davon Investments 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

Investec Bank

Paragon Bank Plc

Cambridge & Counties Bank Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised a bank in the development finance industry for a £14m development loan in a prime Mayfair residential development of 10 flats involving issues including rights of light, access and construction methods.

gunnercooke LLP

The real estate finance practice at gunnercooke LLP has continued to grow over recent years with several partner hires, including Daniel Fireman from Howard Kennedy LLP in April 2021. The team acts for lenders and borrowers, including clearing banks, alternative lenders, and developers, on property investment and development finance mandates in the residential, office and hotel sectors. Matthew EastConor Downey and Russell Dellar are other notable members of the team.

Key clients

Shanghai Commercial Bank

Edinburgh House Holdings

Secure Trust Bank plc

Blue Shield Capital

Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP

Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP is skilled in acting for offshore corporate structures, financial institutions and high-net-worth individuals, and the team handles portfolio refinancings, mezzanine loans and Islamic financing matters. The team is jointly led by John O’Callaghan and Paul Cain, who deals with high value commercial and residential properties and their acquisition and development. Associate Simon Lawrence is strong in the investment and development of hotel assets, and Sarah Hung is also strong in property finance.

Practice head(s):

John O’CallaghanPaul Cain

Other key lawyers:

Sarah HungSimon Lawrence

Testimonials

‘Very responsive, able to work independently and to timescales needed.’

‘RFB are nothing but efficient and easy to deal with, especially Paul Cain – his knowledge is impeccable and he is a people person, easy to talk to and explains legal matters in simple terms.’

‘It is a very people-orientated team.’

‘Paul Cain is a stand-out individual.’

‘Paul Cain is great to deal with; he is quick on all matters, efficient and easy to deal with. He explains things in a manor which makes sense too.’

Key clients

Octane Property Finance

Cranfield Investments

OneSavings Bank Plc

RGL Services

Glasshouse Asset Management

Dominvs Property Developments

Keystone Holdings

Ganco Holdings

ILM Capital

Work highlights

  • Acted for Octane Property Finance on over 200 matters with a total loan value of at least £100m.
  • Acted for Kent Reliance on over 200 matters, with a total loan value of at least £80m.
  • Acted for a property investment fund in a £20m refinance of a residential property portfolio.

Rosling King

Alexander Edwards leads the finance team whilst Ann Ebberson and Peter Lewis head up the real estate practice at Rosling King. The group is adept at acting for lenders and borrowers, including private banks, debt funds and commercial lenders, as well as investors, developers and sponsors. In particular, the team handles the development of student accommodation, hotels, commercial buildings, and residential properties. Ryan D'Souza joined the group in June 2022 from Laytons LLP. In late 2021, Jonathan Hyndman left to join Boodle Hatfield LLP and Alexander Pelopidas joined Newmanor Law.

Other key lawyers:

Ryan D’Souza

Testimonials

‘Professional and knowledgeable.’

‘Skilled and highly efficient team.’

‘The team has an excellent understanding of real estate law, combined with a knowledge of market trends and commercial awareness.’

‘Alex Edwards is knowledgeable, a clear communicator, always helpful, and has good commercial awareness.’

Key clients

Cynergy Bank

Ingenious Group

Iesis Group

Mizen Developments

Arbuthnot Latham

Handelsbanken

Alpha Bank

EFG Private Bank

Shakespeare Martineau LLP

Islamic finance is a core offering of the team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP, especially regarding residential developments. London and Birmingham-based Mohammed Saqub leads the department and specialises in Islamic financing, as well as handling commercial and residential property investment and development transactions. Legal director Andrew Stevens is also a key member of the team, advising clients on large syndicated deals and restructurings.

Practice head(s):

Mohammed Saqub

Other key lawyers:

Andrew Stevens

Key clients

A.I.B. Group

Santander

Shawbrook Bank

The Charity Bank

Al Rayan Bank

Habib Bank Zurich

Gatehouse Bank

Handelsbanken

Leumi ABL

Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC

Punjab National Bank

OFFA

Qatar International Bank

Nester

Work highlights

  • Assisted a bank with setting up an Islamic finance practice.
  • Acted for various clients in completing over £500m worth of Islamic finance transactions.
  • Advised a non-bank home purchase plan provider on developing bespoke Islamic banking documentation.

Thomson Snell & Passmore

The real estate finance team at Thomson Snell & Passmore, which is based in Tunbridge Wells, acts for senior debt lenders, as well as mezzanine and short term lenders, on development and acquisition financing, and loan and portfolio refinancing matters. The team also acts for high-net-worth individuals and corporate borrowers. Richard Ellard leads the team, and Matthew Grogan and Laura Keatley are also of note.

Practice head(s):

Richard Ellard

Testimonials

‘Excellent communication and they always review risk items through a commercial lens (as well as legal!).’

‘Efficient with turnaround times, and strong understanding of the client’s business and the importance of client relationships.’

‘Partner engagement with Matt Grogan always exceeds expectations and he has built an excellent team.’

Key clients

Close Brothers

Paragon Development Finance

Commercial Acceptances

D&B Lending Designated Activity Company

Aldermore Bank plc

The Charity Bank

Keystone Property Finance

Lendinvest Security Trustees

Shawbrook Bank

Shareholders of Motorline

Work highlights

  • Acted for Close Brothers Limited on a revolving credit facility of £6m with a gross development value of £10m.
  • Advised long-term client, the Motorline Group, on its sale to Marshall Motor Holdings plc, in an M&A transaction, which involved the acquisition of the entire share capital of Motorline for a cash consideration of £64.5m.
  • Acted for Paragon Development Finance revolving credit facility of £17m to assist with the development of 39 houses and 40 apartments by Burrington Estates in respect of the historic Winslade site in Devon.