Cerha Hempel is tasked with overseeing portfolio transactions across the CEE region and development projects in Austria for real estate funds and corporates across a variety of sectors, ranging from residential developments to deals for hospitality and office space. Practice head Mark Krenn 'really stands out' for his focus on residential projects, which he oversees from conception through to the sale of completed properties, while alongside him Peter Vcelouch handles construction law challenges. Sole practitioner Petra Darilion joined the team in April 2025, bringing additional expertise in both real estate deals and landlord and tenant matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘What makes this practice unique is the mix of real estate depth with corporate and M&A speed. They can switch from title and permit issues to SPA and JV drafting in one call. The team works as one unit - Mark Kreen leads from the front, but I also felt strong support from Petra Darilion. Response times are excellent, even under crazy timelines. Compared to other firms in Vienna, CERHA HEMPEL is more pragmatic and solution-driven for me.’
- ‘What I value most in the individuals is their attitude: humble, responsive, and laser-sharp. Mark Krenn anticipates problems two steps before they appear, whether it is land register quirks, trustee mechanics, or tight signing and closing paths. He is business-minded, gives practical risk rankings, and never hides behind legalese. Petra Darilion impressed me with flawless document control and negotiation prep.’
- ‘What makes this practice unique is the consistency of excellence in every part of the team. From partner to junior associate, you feel the same care and professionalism. They are quick to respond, precise in their advice, and constructive in negotiations. For me, they stand out because they combine the strength of a big international firm with the personal dedication of a boutique.’
- ‘Mark Krenn is exceptional: calm, extremely well prepared, and with a talent to simplify complex Austrian issues for international investors. He always gives clear options and stands firm in negotiations, without unnecessary conflict. This makes him different from others. I value Petra Darilion for her sharp drafting and very practical approach.’
- ‘CERHA HEMPEL’s real estate team is, for me, the most hands-on in Austria. They combine top technical knowledge with a very practical ‘get it done’ mindset. What I value most: partner time is real - Mark Krenn is in the details when it matters, and his team members are fast and precise. Compared to the big-brand competitors, they feel less bureaucratic and much more available.’
- ‘Mark Krenn is the standout: extremely calm under pressure, a very strong negotiator and he explains Austrian specifics in a way that businesspeople understand. He is not just a lawyer, he is a deal partner. I appreciate that he picks up the phone, gives me two options with pros and cons, and we move. He is tough when needed but never theatrical, which keeps counterparties cooperative.’
Key clients
- Honda Motors Europe Ltd, UK
- ESTRELLA Immobilieninvest AG
- NOVOREAL Immobilien Aktiengesellschaft
- AMISOLA Immobilien AG
- ARE – Austrian Real Estate
- SES Spar European Shopping Centers
- SPAR Österreich
- HOTUSA INTERNATIONAL GROUP, S.A.
- IKB Deutsche Industriebank AG
- Schlosshotel Velden GmbH
- REB Real Estate Burgenland GmbH
- numa group GmbH
Work highlights
Advised SES Spar European Shopping Centers on a strategic retail park acquisition in Slovenia.
Advised ARE Austrian Real Estate on the first entirely digital execution of one of Vienna’s largest residential development project, Village im Dritten, including comprehensive contract drafting and escrow services for apartment sales.
Advised the You Will Like It Group, spearheaded on the acquisition of hotel lease rights, combined with a strategic call option for future ownership, in a premier Austrian ski resort.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Peter Vcelouch; Mark Krenn
Other key lawyers
Petra Darilion