Real estate in Norway
Advokatfirmaet Schjødt
Advokatfirmaet Schjødt stands out in the market for its real estate transaction expertise and development project knowledge, acting for buyers, sellers and developers on some of the market’s most valuable and complex transactions and projects; the group recently assisted NCC as developer with the Valle Wood project, a green office building project in Oslo city centre made from wood. Camilla Kristiansen Lunne and Ditlef Thaulow jointly lead the practice, which also fields ‘strong negotiator’ Geir Sand, Einar Caspersen, and Martin Støren, who focuses on zoning, building and pollution law.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Knowledgeable, available and strong on delivery.’
‘The team has a good knowledge of our business and the ability to let us know what we need before we have realised that ourselves.’
‘Geir Sand is an engaged and strong negotiator and team leader, business-oriented and fun.’
‘Camilla Kristiansen Lunne is hardworking, very knowledgeable and direct.’
Key clients
Oslo S Utvikling AS
Oslo Areal AS
Kildare Nordic Acquisitions
Arctic Securities ASA
Entra ASA
Olav Thon Eiendomsselskap ASA
Selvaag Bolig ASA
Selvaag Eiendom AS
Dolphin Eiendom AS
Base Property AS
Oslo Pensjonsforsikring AS
Self Storage Group ASA
Work highlights
- Assisted Oslo S Utvikling with the sale of all shares in Eufemia and a signature office building in Bjørvika, which has Microsoft and PwC as tenants.
- Advised Kildare Nordic Acquisitions on its purchase of all shares in Technopolis Oy, which has subsidiaries in Finland, Lithuania, Sweden and Norway.
- Acted for Arctic Prosjekt 82 on its purchase of Fyrstikkalléen 1.
BAHR
Following a year of change, the ‘young and strong team’ at BAHR is a key name in the market for large real estate developments and urbanisation projects, and also handles substantial transactions and structuring issues. The group acts for a range of domestic and international clients and regularly assists foreign investors investing in the Norwegian market, institutional investors, life insurance companies, private equity funds and asset managers. Anne Sofie Bjørkholt leads the team, which also fields transactional expert Erik Langseth, Lars Kristian Sande, who advises on real estate portfolio work; and senior associate Ole Andreas Dimmen.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team has very good skills and easily understands the problem at hand.’
‘A team that knows our preferences better than anyone. The only focus is on getting the deal done on fair terms, as well as keeping the legal framework within our preferences. Efficient and commercially minded.’
‘Anne Sofie Bjørkholt is an excellent lawyer with impressive skills. She is also very good in explaining difficult cases in an easy way and is very good to work with.’
Key clients
Aker ASA/Fornebuporten
Solon ASA
AVA/Salto Eiendom
Aspelin Ramm
Deka Bank Deutche Girozentrale
Höegh Eiendom AS
Union Eiendomskapital
DNB Livsforsikring ASA/DNB Scandinavian Property Fund
Fredensborg Eiendom AS
Infranode AB
Work highlights
- Acted for Solon Eiendom on its acquisition of a large real estate development at Lørenskog.
- Assisted Heimdal Eiendom with the split, by MBO, of the real estate development division of the group.
- Advised Hines on the sale of 45 Karl Johans Gate, a landmark building in Central Oslo, to Euro Real Estate.
Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS
Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS’ team of ‘commercially outstanding, pragmatic problem solvers’ handles the full spectrum of real estate mandates encompassing transactional work, developments, substantial projects and VAT-related issues. The group has notable strength in cross-border transactions, particularly within the Nordics, and regularly assists foreign investors investing into Norway. Department head Jarle W Holstrøm focuses on development, planning and zoning work; Christian Bjørn-Hansen assists with high-value transactions and lease agreements, Erling Timm is a key contact for residential property developments, and Herman Roksund handles real estate transactions. Clients also praise associate partner Magnus Meisingset-Haug as ‘an exceptionally service-minded lawyer’.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Commercially outstanding, pragmatic problem solvers and high legal competence.’
‘Strong mix of individuals with complementing skills. Works very efficiently with complex matters, and very good at highlighting commercial risks within legal matters. Strong understanding of real estate, and of the requirements private equity investors operate under.’
‘Haavind always deliver on quality. They are very competent, business-oriented and have short response times on any request.’
‘A well-knit team of true professionals, that always stay two steps ahead of the competition. Industry leading in strategic thinking and challenges the status quo. I have never had a meeting where they don’t come truly prepared.’
‘The team is service minded, responds quickly, expertly skilled and thorough, but they also have the ability to separate the important from less important issues.’
‘Erling Timm is business-oriented, trustworthy and a dealmaker.’
‘Magnus Meisingset-Haug is an exceptionally service minded lawyer with excellent commercial knowledge.’
‘Christian Bjørn-Hansen has a very strong commercial understanding and is an excellent partner in complex transactions. Has the ability to meaningfully drive negotiations forward, while keeping his clients’ needs a priority. A very valuable resource and our preferred lawyer on all legal matters in the Norwegian market.’
‘Herman Roksund is very detail focused and efficient, without losing track of the commercial aspects of a transaction.’
‘Christian Bjørn-Hansen stands out. He differs as he has a commercial and business-oriented approach as well as high knowledge on legal matters. He delivers a high level of client service and short response times.’
‘Christian Bjørn-Hansen is a solid negotiator, with a street-smart and serious approach to transactions. The same goes for Erling Timm who also is very knowledgeable with regards to real estate development and rental contracts in particular.’
‘Pål Martin Abell is a rising star in the firm, who takes on every challenge with a great mood and professional weight.’
Key clients
Storebrand Eiendomsfond Norge KS
HIG Capital Realty Partners
Ragde Eiendom AS
Pareto Securities AS
NRP Finans AS
Entra Eiendom ASA
Bulk Infrastructure AS
Anthon B Nilsen Eiendom AS
PEAB Eiendomsutvikling AS
Norwegian Public Roads Administration
HAV Eiendom AS
Selvaag Eiendom AS
Canica Eiendom AS
Skanska Norge AS
Stor-Oslo Eiendom AS
Solon Eiendom ASA
Work highlights
- Advising HIG Petro III on its purchase of Hinna Park Invest.
- Acted for the shareholders of Raufoss Holding on the sale of one of the largest industrial parks in Norway.
- Advised Selvaag Eiendom on the purchase of Dronningens Gate 13, a recently refurbished office building in Oslo.
Advokatfirmaet Selmer AS
Mikkel Vislie heads up the practice at Advokatfirmaet Selmer AS, which excels in real estate transactions and development projects; the group recently advised SBB on its sale of shares in Nye Barcode 121, the head office of DNB Bank in Oslo. The group also saw notable growth recently with the promotion of Mari Helen Gulsvik and Daniel Løken Høgtun to the partnership in 2019, and the recruitment of Trude Gran Melbye from Wikborg Rein in 2018. Other key individuals include Andreas Rørvik, who focuses on real estate finance work; Even Berg, transaction focused Sverre Nordlie, and Thomas Reppe Wetting, who regularly advises on the establishment of syndicates and the fund structure for real estate investments. Line Ravlo-Losvik departed to DLA Piper in 2019.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Andreas Rørvik is probably the best all-round real estate lawyer in Norway.’
Key clients
Vinterparken Holding
Wahl Eiendom AS
Tre Kronor Property Investme
Profier
Samhällsbyggnadsbolaget i Norden AB
Niam V Holding
Carnegie Project Finance
Arctic Secuities
Coop Norge Eiendom
Genesta GNRE II Holdings
Møller Eiendom AS
Selvaag Bolig ASA
Aspelin Ramm
Braathen Eiendom AS
Nærsenter Utvikling AS
Orkla Eiendom AS
Work highlights
- Acted for Samhällsbyggnadsbolaget i Norgen on its sale of shares in Nye Barcode 121, a property company which owns the headquarters of DNB Bank.
- Assisted Profier and Hasle Utvikling with their sale of shares in Hasle Linje Bygg 01.
- Advised Bane Nor Eiendom on its NOK1.7bn sale of shares in BNE Schweigaardsgate 33-1.
Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS
With a team of ‘outstanding individuals’ who are ‘knowledgeable, accurate and well oriented in the market’, Advokatfirmaet Thommessen AS handles the full range of real estate issues and is noted for its transactional, development and project management expertise. The practice also has environmental law and contentious experience. Practice head Christopher Borch is praised by clients as ‘a bright lawyer who thinks outside the box’, the ‘always excellent’ Christian Müller specialises in property developments, and Even Bratsberg assists with real estate transactions and refinancing work. Vidar Havsgård is the key contact in Bergen.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Thommessen has outstanding individuals within all relevant real estate topics compared to its peers.’
‘The team are always ready to help out – day and night!’
‘The team is knowledgeable with quick and accurate responses, and is well oriented in the market.’
‘Christian Müller and Chris Borch are both outstanding individuals, with in-depth knowledge in all real estate topics.’
‘Chris Borch is a bright lawyer with a lot of experience. Thinks outside the box.’
‘Mads Ole Haugen is a steady lawyer with deep experience.’
‘Christian Müller is excellent, always fast and provides reliable answers.’
Key clients
Artic Securities AS
Clarksons Platou Real Estate AS
Nordic Real Estate Partners AS
Norwegian Property ASA
Oslo Areal AS
Starwood Capital Group
Watrium Eiendom AS
Promenaden Property AS
Scandinavian Property Group AS
Angelo Gordon
Meyer Bergman
Realkapital Investor AS
Oslo Airport City AS
Storebrand Eiendom AS
Søylen Eiendom AS
Industrifinans Capital AS
Kruse Smith Eiendom AS
Bulk Industrier AS
Mustad Eiendom AS
Geilo Holding AS
Blackstone
Glastad Farsund AS and Fortus AS
Vika Project Finance AS
Carucel Eiendom AS
Canica Eiendom AS
Eiendomshuset Malling & Co AS /Malling & Co Eiendomsfond AS
Tellus Eiendom AS
Tristan Capital Partners
Scandinavian Development Constructive Development AS
Orkla Eiendom AS
Neptune Properties AS
Norgesgruppen ASA
Work highlights
- Assisted Mustad Eiendom with the development of Lilleakerbyen, a property development project at Lilleaker in Oslo and Bærum municipality.
- Advised Oslo Airport City on the €2bn development of the Gardermoen Næringspark property development, close to Gardermoen Airport.
- Acted for Tristan Capital Partners on the divestment of its retail portfolio in Norway.
Wiersholm
Tom Rune Lian and Ståle Meleng jointly lead the department at Wiersholm, which advises on commercial, corporate and residential real estate projects for a client roster of domestic and international companies; key examples include Pareto Securities, Union Gruppen, Vika Project Finance and Ferd. The group is also noted for its tax and VAT knowledge and Nicolay Vold is singled out for his real estate tax expertise. Other key names include Ronny Lund, who assists with onshore and offshore projects and acts in contentious mandates; and managing associate Kim Hellstrøm Christensen, who specialises in real estate transactions and M&A.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is streetwise and efficient.’
‘Wiersholm is always available, positive and has our back all the time.’
‘Tom Rune Lian is commercial with in-depth knowledge of the real estate sector.’
‘Tom Rune Lian is solution-oriented, smooth and bright.’
Key clients
Pareto Securities
UNION Gruppen
Coop Norge
Axer Eiendom
Ferd Eiendom
Arcus Gruppen
Oslo Pensjonsforsikring
Vika Project Finance
Steen & Strøm
Aberdeen Asset Management
Work highlights
- Advised Innovasjonsparken on its sale of a development area to Helse Stavanger HF.
- Acted for BOS Eiendom on its acquisition of the building plot for Nils Hansens vei 9-11.
- Assisted Værste with the sales of a business portfolio and a building plot portfolio in Fredrikstad.
Wikborg Rein
Wikborg Rein’s ‘young and talented’ real estate group is ‘always available for its clients’ and ‘combines deal-focused and efficient legal advice with thorough in-depth knowledge of the real estate market’. The practice is noted for its experience in property portfolio issues and development projects, and also has expertise in real estate transactions, lease agreements, financing structures, investments and project management work. Ingrid Høstmælingen heads up the team in Oslo while Bjørn Frode Skaar is the key name in Bergen. Clients also praise the ‘outstanding’ Lars Ulleberg Jensen, who has ‘stellar knowledge of the law’. Gøran Mjelde Aarvik joined Advokatfirmaet Simonsen Vogt Wiig in mid-2019.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The real estate team is young and talented. Always available for its clients and high quality in its delivery.’
‘Deal-focused and efficient legal advice combined with thorough in-depth knowledge about the real estate market. Very few have the commercial understanding that Wikborg Rein has.’
‘Able to discover all relevant legal issues and apply commercial sense when recommending how to address said issues. A very good adviser to have in your corner.’
‘Lars Ulleberg Jensen is outstanding! His efficiency and remarkable knowledge of legal matters is impressive.’
‘Lars Ulleberg Jensen has stellar knowledge of the law, follows through, has a good team of lawyers supporting him but is hands-on and aware of all details of any topic. Provides commercially sound advice. Ingrid K. Høstmælingen is extremely detailed, hands-on and very available. Ingrid and Lars are building an impressive team of lawyers around them, including Ine Osland, who is knowledgeable, very capable of running processes and follows up to ensure on time delivery of projects that often exceeds expectations.’
Key clients
Storebrand Liv
DNB Liv
Arctic Securities
Aberdeen Standard Asset Management/Aberdeen Standard Property Investors
Fram Eiendom AS
Clarksons Platou Real Estate
Bergen Tomteselskap AS
Carnegie
Tristan Capital Partners
NorgesGruppen
Work highlights
- Acted for a syndicate set up by DNB Markets on its acquisition of Schweigaardsgate 33 from Bane Nor.
- Assisted DNB Liv with its NOK4.5m acquisition of all shares in the company, which owns a building in Bjørvika, which is currently let out to DNB Bank.
- Advised Aberdeen Eiendomsfond Norge I on a property swap deal with Entra.
Arntzen de Besche
Arntzen de Besche’s ‘experienced, solution-oriented and thorough’ team acts for domestic and international clients on the full spectrum of real estate issues including M&A transactions, private equity investments, financing work, project developments and lease agreements. Key clients include Ness, Risan and Partners, Aberdeen Asset Management Norway and Vika Project Finance, with Arctic Real Estate Development, Lerka and Norwegian Property being new additions to the client roster. Hans Henrik Kværne leads the group, which also counts Eilif S Koch, who regularly advises investors and private equity companies; Thomas Øslebø, who specialises in development issues; and Håvard Bergli, who joined from Advokatfirma Bergli in 2019.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The practice is experienced, solution oriented and thorough.’
‘The key strengths of the team are strong commercial insight and legal approach, combined with the ability to rapidly adapt to the client’s needs.’
‘Håvard Bergli is commercial and pragmatic.’
‘Thomas Øslebø is always keen to adapt to the client`s needs, and is a prodigy with respect to focusing on the matters of importance to the transaction.’
‘Hans Henrik Kværne is probably the most experienced transaction lawyer as of today, which enables him to rapidly provide strong legal advice on complicated matters.’
‘Eilif Koch has a strong legal understanding, making him a preferred advisor for disputes.’
Key clients
Ness, Risan & Partners AS
Stor-Oslo Eiendom AS
Aberdeen Asset Management Norway AS
Møller Eiendom Norge AS
Arctic Real Estate Development AS
Lerka AS
Bovieran Norge AS
Vika Project Finance AS
Fearnley Project Finance AS
Realkapital Investor AS
Norwegian Property ASA
Work highlights
- Acting for NRP Finans on its separate purchases of Stasjonskvartalene, Askeladden Eiendom and Erteløkka.
- Advised Realkapital Investor on the sale of Drammensveien 211-213 to DNB Markets.
- Assisting Meierikvartalet Utvikling with the ongoing development of Meierikvartalet, a mixed-use development in the city centre of Lillestrom.
Advokatfirmaet CLP DA
‘Highly skilled lawyer’ Håvard Skogvoll, heads up the department at Advokatfirmaet CLP DA and has ‘a unique ability to create a friendly deal environment’. Clients also praise Elin Mack Løvdal, who ‘exudes experience with a no-nonsense attitude’, and senior lawyer Mathias Borch, who is ‘an outstanding real estate legal adviser’. The practice focuses on transactions and property development projects including transformation projects and mixed-use projects; the team is also a key name in the market for foreign real estate funds investing in Norway.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘CLP offers a unique team of individuals, with a passion for real estate and top-notch legal competence. Having CLP on the buy side or sell side of a transaction is always a positive when negotiating a real estate transaction. The partners exude trust and are able to create an amiable environment for negotiations and facilitating an effective process for reaching a final agreement.’
‘It is my impression that the firm has a very good insight into the Norwegian real estate market. The advice given is always on-point and the firm provides excellent value for money. I highly appreciate that I have a single point of contact with Håvard Skogvoll, even if multiple lawyers work in the background in case of larger transactions.’
‘Strong ability to understand, solve and communicate the underlying commercial aspects of legal issues. They provide a proactive approach to advising on current and potential risks involved in both developments and transactions.’
‘Håvard Skogvoll has a great sense of humour and has a unique ability to create a friendly deal environment. His legal competence in real estate matters is unquestionable.’
‘Elin Mack Løvdal exudes experience and a no-nonsense attitude.’
‘Mathias Borch exudes confidence and knowledge, as well as being service minded towards clients and others.’
‘I have mainly worked with Håvard Skogvoll from the firm. He is a very skilled lawyer who is able to identify important matters quickly and also provide durable solutions. He is an extremely strong negotiator who has a lot of focus on the commercial aspects of a transaction without compromising the level of legal expertise.’
‘Elin Mach Løvdal provides efficiency and valuable recommendations in every process.’
‘Mathias Borch is an outstanding real estate legal adviser. He has broad experience in the real estate field, and it shows in his advice, as he is able to provide sound legal advice on the whole real estate value chain. This is amplified when he follows a real estate investment from acquisition to development, management and divestment. He can look forward and identify and legally manage potential risks.’
Key clients
Catella Real Estate AG
Scala Eiendom AS
Scandinavian Property Group AS
Euro Real Estate S.a.r.l.
Kongsberg Gruppen ASA
J.B Ugland Eiendom AS
CapMan Real Estate Oy
Selvaag Eiendom AS
Fortum Oy
Fredriksborg Eiendom
Oslo House Development
Work highlights
- Advised Scala Eiendom on its merger with Salto Eiendom and sale of shares to Schage Eiendom.
- Acted for Euro Real Estate on its acquisition of a high-end office and retail property on Oslo’s Karl Johans Gate.
- Assisted a syndicate including JB Ugeland, Otterlei Group and Vedal Investor with the sale of Fyrstikkalléen 1 in Oslo.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper’s practice, which ‘goes the extra mile’, saw substantial expansion in 2019 following the recruitment of Line Ravlo-Losvik and Andreas Mello-Kildal from Advokatfirmaet Selmer AS and Wikborg Rein respectively. Other key individuals include group leader Thomas Rindahl Håkonsen, who focuses on transactional and development work; Bjørn Slaatta, Anders Bergene and Magnus Lutnæs. Tone Gjertsen also leads the firm’s planning group. The team excels in real estate developments and transactions with notable expertise in cross-border mandates.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Always positive and there for us. Good quality in every delivery.’
‘They have good in-house resources and can handle most questions on the fly. They are swift and accurate in the work they deliver. We have always been very happy with the service they provide.’
‘Always fully focused and have our back, thinking of what we don’t think of. Commercial and result oriented in negotiations and understand the customer.’
‘Line Ravlo-Losvik is a very experienced property lawyer. Understands all the topics involved in a transaction. Good on solutions and always follows up.’
‘Thomas Rindahl Håkonsen, has a superb knowledge of the local market, he is good in negotiations and his calm and collected approach fits us superbly.’
Key clients
Aberdeen Eiendomsfond Norge I AS
Skanska Norge
Eiendomsspar AS
Madison International Realty, LLC.
Betonmast Eiendom
Pecunia
Attivo Eiendomsutvikling I, II and III
WeWork Norway
Stor-Oslo Eiendom
Round Hill Capital
90 North Real Estate Partners
Tesla Motors Norway
IKEA / Ingka Centres
Work highlights
- Advised Madison International Realty on its entrance into a joint venture agreement with Carucel Eiendom relating to the sale of shares in Oslo Bay District.
- Acted for Solon Eiendom on a high-value residential development including zoning issues, development agreements and land procurement work.
- Assisted WeWork Norway with the negotiation and drafting of two commercial leases for buildings in Oslo for its first investments and entrance in Norway.
Advokatfirmaet Simonsen Vogt Wiig
Leveraging its national network of six offices, Advokatfirmaet Simonsen Vogt Wiig focuses on transactional and development work at a domestic level and also handles foreign real estate investment into Norway. The group counts financial managers, institutional and industrial investors, real estate companies and developers as clients; noteworthy examples include Njord Securities, Miris and Skanska. Under the leadership of Jørgen Lindboe, the team also includes Pål Brudvik, development specialist Bjørn H. Kise, Arne Oftedal in Stavanger, Gøran Mjelde Aarvik, who joined from Wikborg Rein in 2019, and senior lawyer Caroline Waller, who is the key name for planning and building law.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Simonsen Vogt Wiig’s real estate team has assisted us in real estate matters for several years. The team are very experienced, dependable, get the work done in an efficient manner and deliver a product of high quality. They also have good standing in the market.’
‘Jørgen Lindboe is the reason why we chose Simonsen Vogt Wiig in the first place. He is a skilled lawyer who provides clear advice, he is thorough, but also business minded, and always tries to avoid making things unnecessarily complicated – in short he gets the work done.’
‘Jørgen Lindboe is a very intelligent, commercial lawyer who solves challenges rather than creating problems. His character, personality and ability to find solutions must be highlighted.’
‘I would like to mention Simonsen Vogt Wiig’s Bergen office. They did an outstanding report for us. The quality and efficiency is the best in Norway today.’
Key clients
Njord Securities AS (previous Castelar Corporate Finance AS)
Colliers International Corporate AS
Malling & Co, Project Finance AS
Rimfeldt Eiendom AS
Bjørvika Infrastruktur AS
SPG Private Equity AS
Fazenda Utvikling AS
Tinden Eiendom AS
Bertel O. Steen Eiendom AS
GLS Real Estate AS
Birger N. Haug Holding AS
DNB Bank ASA – DNB Markets Investment Banking Division
RAC NORWAY AS (part of the AVIS group)
Buffin Real Estate Norway AS
Ineo Eiendom AS
Gaustadbekken AS
Forus Næringspark AS
Invento Kapitalforvaltning AS/ Tress Asset Management AS)
Omtanke AS
Miris AS
Coop Eiendom Norge AS
Work highlights
- Advised DNB Bank and Colliers International Corporate as a joint venture on the acquisition of Professor Birkelands Vei 21 from Ragde Eiendom.
- Assisted Colliers International Corporate with the sale of Storgata 5-7 Invest to Realkapital Investor.
- Acted for Njord Securities on multiple transactions including the acquisition and syndication of Stavgården from Lord Eiendom.
Deloitte Advokatfirma AS
Thorvald Nyquist and Christine Haugstvedt Downing jointly lead the practice at Deloitte Advokatfirma AS from Oslo and Bergen respectively; Nyquist is a key name for transactions and lease contracts while Downing handles property developments. The team’s focus areas span four separate sections encompassing commercial real estate transactions, commercial rent and lease work, property developments and ground lease issues; the practice also fields distinct tax and VAT real estate teams. Alongside its substantial Norwegian network, the group also utilises the wider global footprint to advise on international matters.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Their assistance has been of great value for us, as they are always quick responders, delivering the desired assignment within short deadlines, have the necessary branch competence as well as experience with both estate agents, who we engage for their larger projects, as well as the developing of properties, negotiations and the drafting of contracts. Their practice is also unique, referring to the high cross border capabilities we have experienced. And we highly appreciate the follow-up being carried through by the same lawyer as point of contact. They are honest and understandable and give us realistic expectations to results. Pragmatic and focused on solutions.’
‘Christine H Downing is an outstanding lawyer, extremely positive, constructive and effective, showing both commercial and legal competence, and is able to combine these to the benefit of the client. She performs her services with no extra investigations recommended than we absolutely need to serve the purpose. In negotiation meetings, she is a combination of very likeable for all parties, and at the same time very professional and confidence building for the other party.’
‘Christoffer Nicolaisen is forward looking, close to his clients and brings strong value to his products.’
‘They have an extraordinary engagement for every case.’
Key clients
Boligbygg Oslo KF
Lovisenberg Diakonale Sykehus AS
Ruter AS
Uloba AS
Høyskolen Kristiania AS
Varme & Bad AS
Norwegian Nuclear Decommissioning
Olav Thon Gruppen
WPS Næringsmegling AS
Norlandia Eiendom AS
Proaktiv Gruppen
Work highlights
- Investigated 632 property transactions carried out by Boligbygg Oslo.
- Advising Lovisenberg Diakonale on issues relating to its facilities including new lease contracts and landowner negotiations.
- Acting for Norwegian Nuclear Decommissioning on the real estate elements of its decommissioning activities.
Advokatfirmaet Føyen Torkildsen AS
Advokatfirmaet Føyen Torkildsen AS advises on the full spectrum of issues relating to property developments including property purchases, building regulation issues and construction work. The group’s client roster spans corporate occupiers, real estate companies and developers; notable examples include Google, Fabritius Gruppen and Stavanger Utvikling. Group leader Paal-Christian Hansen handles matters across commercial and residential real estate, Ottar Egset is a key name for property developer clients, and Lars David Råmunddal advises on development projects.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Føyen is good at finding and focusing on the right topics.’
‘The team has very good knowledge and experience. They have good internal communication and give us excellent and quick advice.’
‘Andreas Iversen is a partner with in-depth knowledge of the industry which benefits us greatly.’
Key clients
Fabritius Gruppen AS
Stavanger Utvikling KF
Boligpartner AS
Loe Utvikling AS
Rema Etablering Oslo/Østlandet AS
Biltema Realestate AS Norway AS
FFV Gardermoen AS
DNB Bank ASA
Holt Park Holding AS
Student Welfare organisation of Oslo and Akershus
Ulven AS/Obos Eiendom AS
Rica Eiendom Holding AS
Backe Prosjekt AS
Certas Energy Norway AS
Noah AS
Eiendomsspar AS
Optimera (Saint-Gobain)
Icopal AS
Norsk Eiendom
Google LLC
Work highlights
- Advised Holt Park Holding on its acquisition of a property in the municipality of Frogn.
- Assisting the Student Welfare Organisation of Oslo and Akershus with issues relating to its properties including lease issues, developments and acquisitions.
- Acting for Solsiden 1 on a housing project in Risør.
Advokatfirmaet Grette AS
Advokatfirmaet Grette AS’ real estate practice focuses on commercial and residential developments, real estate transactions, lease agreements and infrastructure-related work; clients include Olav Thon Group, Construction City, The Selvaag Group, Tine and The Port Authority of Drammen. Dag Henden Torsteinsen leads the department and handles transactions and development work. Other key practitioners include Rolf Markussen, who specialises in development issues, and Ole-Jacob Farstad, who is experienced in the retail sector. Anders Myhre joined from Advokatfirmaet Hjort in 2020.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Grette is a smaller company than some of the competitors but provides excellent service, and market and business understanding.’
‘Dag Henden Torsteinsen has a genuine interest for commercial real estate and makes a great effort to understand our business. He not only provides excellent legal advice but also great business and strategic advice.’
Key clients
Olav Thon Group
Construction City Eiendom AS
Selvaag Group (Dronningens gate 13 AS)
Harald Lyche Holding AS
Drammensregionens Interkommunale Havnevesen (Drammen Port Authority).
Norsk Rikskringkasting AS
TINE SA
Sisterne Drift DA (Uno-X, Esso, ST1 Circle K)
Husebyplatået AS
Sparebanken Øst Eiendom AS
Work highlights
- Advising Husebyplatået, a joint venture between Milarium and JM Norway, on an 800+ apartment development complex on a former Statnett industrial site.
- Assisting Selvaag Property with the development of Dronningens gate 13.
- Acting for Construction City Eiendom on a development at Ulven.
Kluge Advokatfirma AS
Kluge Advokatfirma AS advises on all phases of real estate developments including planning law, lease issues, property sales and purchases, procurement work, financings and construction matters; the group also handles real estate management mandates. Naja Dannow leads the team from Oslo, while Petter Schmidt and Inger Hygen lead the groups in Stavanger and Bergen respectively. The team also fields development specialist Knut Prestvik and associate partners Aslak Støen and Einar Johan Espeland.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Bane NOR Eiendom AS
Norsk Hydro (ASA and subsidiaries)
Smedvig Eiendom AS
Hafrsby AS
Eidos Eiendomsutvikling AS
Drammen Helsepark AS
Cityplan AS
Cushman & Wakefield
Neptune Properties AS
JM Norge AS
Møller Eiendom Holding AS
Sønderberg Eiendom AS
Østfold fylkeskommune (county authority)
Opplysningsvesenets Fond (The Norwegian Church Endowment) / Clemens Kraft AS
Municipality of Skedsmo
Municipality of Ski
Municipality of Oslo
Avantor AS
Brønnøysundregistrene
AE Gruppen AS / Askim Entreprenør AS /AFB Eiendom
Work highlights
- Acted for Bane Nor Eiendom and Eidos on issues relating to the development and construction of a new hospital in Drammen.
- Assisted Eidos with the development of an industrial area into housing and commercial properties.
- Advising on the establishment of a new headquarters and special purpose buildings for the Brønnøysund Registers.
SANDS
SANDS’ expertise in real estate developments and transactional work was strengthened in 2019 following the recruitment of special counsel Roger Engebretsen from EY Norway and the addition of senior lawyer Sofia Bjørck from Advokatfirmaet Føyen Torkildsen AS, who has notable expertise in zoning matters. Team head Christian Hartmann handles high-value transactions and development issues, and Jens Aas is an expert in the tax and VAT elements of real estate transactions. Clients include real estate investors, corporate occupiers and real estate funds.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Anders Opsahl Holding AS
Oslo Finans AS
Taraldset Eiendom AS
Fearnley Project Finace AS
Fauna Eiendom AS
Loe Utvikling
Sofiemyr Utvikling
Pecunia AS
Angelo Gordon
Greverud Utvikling AS/Kruse Smith AS
Work highlights
- Advising Loe Utvikling on the divestment of Kongeveien 47 and Fløisbonnveien 2-4.
Advokatfirmaet Ræder AS
Advokatfirmaet Ræder AS fields three distinct groups in its real estate division; the transaction and commercial leases group, the construction team and the real estate development practice. The transaction and commercial leases team is led by Anders Utne and acts for domestic and international clients, while new recruit Eva Hagen is the main contact for the development team; Hagen joined from Advokatfirmaet Hammervoll Pind AS in 2019. Andreas Frislid and Erik Salbu Aasland are also key names to note. Former development group member Jøran Kallmyr was appointed Minister of Justice and Immigration in 2019.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The Ræder real estate team has a very high level of local knowledge and expertise in their field. They execute a large number of closings and deliver fast and accurate legal advice and services whenever needed.’
‘Both Erik Saalbu Aasland and Anders Utne are easy to contact – they are always available, quick to respond and understand, and, most importantly, very skilled.’
‘I’m especially impressed with Anders Utne. He always answers and delivers within the needed time frame.’
Key clients
SKB Eiendom AS (Kaare Berg AS)
RiskPoint AS
Food Folk Norge AS (McDonald’s)
Colliers International AS
60 grader Næringsmegling AS
Scandinavian Property Group
Fearnley Project Finance AS
Aberdeen Eiendomsfond Norge I AS
Norgesgruppen ASA
Revcap
Major og Advokat Eivind Eckbos Legat (“Eckbos Legat”).
Retail Stasjonskvartalet AS
Areal Partner AS
Malling & Co AS
Black Bricks AS
Aberdeen Asset Management Norway AS
Cushman & Wakefield Realkapital AS
Saja Eiendom AS
Jahre Eiendom AS
Bonum AS
Axer Eiendom AS
RSV Eiendom AS
Blinken Holding AS
Bjørkelangen Sentrumsutvikling AS
Sørenco AS
Work highlights
- Advising SKB Eiendom on its acquisitions and divestments.
- Acting for Bonum on multiple real estate transactions and the related financing issues.
- Assisted Ravnåsveien Eiendom with the negotiation of new leases with the municipality and the government.
Brækhus Advokatfirma DA
Eirik Espenes and Erling Keyser jointly lead the department at Brækhus Advokatfirma DA, which is singled out for its property development and management expertise; the group also advises landowners affected by expropriations and compulsory acquisitions, handles procurement work and has expertise in VAT and tax issues. Fredrik Huseby is a key contact for expropriation work and Jan Esben Leborg focuses on developments. The team also recently expanded with the recruitment of Thomas Andersen and Per Christian Grant-Carlsen from Dalan Advokatfirma DA and Advokatfirmaet Hammervoll Pind AS in 2019.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘They are highly qualified, and you feel prioritised as a client.’
Key clients
Vinkl Holding AS (former BEE AS)
Jahr Gruppen AS
Røa Centrum AS
Axer Bolig AS
Sparebanken Øst
Sem & Johnsen Bolig- og Næringsmegling AS
TUI Norge AS
St1 Norge AS
Nordvik Eiendomsmegling AS
Opsahl Bolig AS
Stil Invest AS
Mestergruppen AS
Slemmestad Brygge
PostNord
Work highlights
- Advising Vinkl Holding on a residential development.
- Acting for APT Development on several residential developments including the related contractual and contentious matters.
- Assisting Røa Centrum with the development of a commercial and residential project in Oslo.
EY Norway
EY Norway is recognised for its real estate development expertise, real estate-related tax and VAT work and technology issues. In a recent highlight, the team advised Olav Thon Gruppen on several large development projects. Kristian Råum heads up the practice, which also includes VAT specialist Agnete Haugerud, newly promoted partner Egil Jakobsen and Njall Arne Høyland. Henning Raa joined Aabø-Evensen & Co Advokatfirma in 2019.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘They have extensive knowledge and experience, and have a large network of relevant clients and connections. By this, they are also able to participate in lifting issues for the combined business and in contributing to the development of relevant laws and regulations. They have a culture that we like to cooperate with, and that culture is present in all employees and teams we have met.‘
‘They go the extra mile. They are always available, they always deliver. With high integrity, they also live by their boundaries, and are clear about their views even when it is not in the most obvious interest of the client in the short term.‘
Key clients
Olav Thon Gruppen
Taste of North AS
Miris
Møller Eiendom
KLP Eiendom Oslo AS
Veidekke ASA
Boligbyggelaget USBL
Pandox AB
OBOS BBL
Arena Nord AS
Geilo Holding AS
Ystadveien 1 AS
Work highlights
- Assisting Olav Thon Gruppen with multiple development projects.
- Representing Taste of North in a real estate tax case against Tysfjord municipality relating to industrial property taxation.
- Advising Miris on its use of share tokens to digitalise the ownership of new real estate projects.
Advokatfirmaet Hjort
With substantial contentious real estate expertise, Advokatfirmaet Hjort also handles real estate transactions and construction projects. The team is particularly active for contractor clients and the firm’s wider client roster includes Avinor, Peab and Skanska Norge. Liv Zimmermann leads the group and is a specialist in planning and building law. The practice also fields expropriation specialist Frode Innjord, Sveinung Flaaten, who handles ground lease work; and Kristian Korsrud, who specialises in pollution liability matters and development projects. Anders Myhre joined Advokatfirmaet Grette AS in 2020.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Avinor AS
KLP Eiendom AS
Peab AS
Malthus Uniteam AS
Skanska Norge AS
HAB Construction AS
Kruse Smith AS
Selvaag Bolig ASA
Technopolis AS
Risa AS
Midtre Romerike Avløpsselskap – MIRA IKS
SGP Finans AS
Verkis HF
Nyhavn Pluss AS
High Street Shopping AS
LPO Arkitekter AS
Asker municipality
Røa Utvikling AS
Work highlights
- Represented Nyhavn Pluss/Selvaag Bolig in a dispute relating to the responsibility for the clean-up of contaminated land.
- Acted for Røa Utvikling in a lawsuit brought by the owners of apartments in the Røa Bad project.
- Advising Avinor on its real estate and construction issues.
KPMG Law Advokatfirma AS, Norway
KPMG Law Advokatfirma, Norway assists with a range of real estate issues including transactions, litigation, planning and building law and has notable expertise in VAT and tax matters. The group also leverages the wider audit and advisory departments to provide a one-stop-shop service for its client base of funds, investors and real estate companies. Indirect tax expert Jan Ove Fredlund leads the group in Oslo, which also includes Jannicke Knudtzon Rokkan, who leads the Bodø office; Ola Mæle in Bergen and Per Daniel Nyberg, who splits his time between Oslo and Stavanger.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The employees at KPMG are expertly skilled. Deliver at agreed time and price. They are nice people.’
‘We feel very confident and really trust the way things are communicated. Always on time. Always available for questions. Always good and understandable answers.’
Key clients
Madison Real Estate
Blackstone Real Estate Partners IV
Ramsalt Næring AS/Ramsalt Boligsalg AS
Gunvald Johansen Holding AS
T Amundsen Eiendom AS
Hyllbekk Eiendom AS
Bergskås Holding AS / Li Bil AS
Work highlights
- Advised Madison Real Estate on its acquisition of a commercial property portfolio in the Oslo central business district.
- Assisted Blackstone Real Estate Partners IV with its acquisition of ten funds managed by Agasti.
- Acted for Ramsalt on its restructuring.
Ro Sommernes Advokatfirma DA
At Ro Sommernes Advokatfirma DA, Nils Petter Hansson leads the real estate group while Henrik Hareide Nilsen heads up the transactions practice. The group handles a variety of mandates including lease work, development projects, real estate litigation and transactional matters. Noteworthy clients include AF Gruppen, Heilo and Nordic Choice Hospitality Group. Henrik A Christensen is also a key name to note.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Very skilled real estate team with a pragmatic approach. Second to none in the hospitality segment and demonstrates vast experience in hotel real estate matters.’
‘A mid-size firm with the capabilities to punch above its weight!’
‘Nils Petter Hansson is a star. He has a calm and professional appearance. He has really good industry knowledge and is one of the few real estate lawyers who really understands numbers. Nils Petter is very on the point and effective in his working process and communication.’
‘Henrik A. Christensen is a great deal maker who is very connected in the market!’
‘Henrik A. Christensen has an impressive commercial understanding of the hotel industry, and a very pragmatic way of handling hotel transactions.’
Key clients
Strawberry Properties AB
Gipling Holding AS
AF Gruppen
Nordic Choice Hospitality Group AS, Choice Hotels & Resorts AS and Petter A. Stordalen – all companies under the “Strawberry Group AS”-group
JEM AS
Heilo Eiendom AS
Fram Realinvest AS
Framba Holding AS
Pilestredet 35 AS
B.A. 5 Invest AS and Daimyo Eiendom AS
Work highlights
- Assisted Strawberry Properties with its divestment of five landmark hotel properties in Norway and Sweden to Midstar.
- Acted for Gipling Holding on its divestiture of Gipling Bygginvest including seven department stores.
- Advised a joint venture between AF Gruppen and OBOS Nye Hjem on its acquisition of Skårersletta 50 Holding.