Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is known for its strong relationship with Blackstone, assisting with their full spectrum of REIT transactions, including REIT M&A and IPOs. Recently the practice has been assisting underwriters with senior notes offerings and tender offerings. Other than Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust, the firm represents a number of externally managed REITs where it has actively advised on their launches and continues to represent them in matters. Brian Stadler is a M&A expert and key to the team’s relationship with Blackstone, representing REITs in leveraged buyouts, acquisitions and dispositions, and joint ventures. Stadler leads the practice alongside Edgar Lewandowski who focuses on the capital markets side of REIT matters and is particularly noted for his knowledge on REIT spin-offs. For tax-related issues Nancy Mehlman is the go-to, she has expertise in real estate transactional tax issues as well as tax-related problems relating to M&As, partnerships, and joint ventures. All aforementioned lawyers are based in New York.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Simpson Thacher & Bartlett team is involved in some of the largest and most complex REIT M&A transaction and provides sophisticated advice across borders on multijurisdictional transactions.’
‘Brian Stadler is a seasoned veteran with a keen understanding of REIT deal dynamics. He gives thoughtful strategic advice and can cut through the noise to effectively negotiate for his clients' interests.
- 'Matt Rogers is an up-and-coming partner who has developed significant expertise, is always on top of the details and provides thorough and thoughtful advice.'
‘This team is a well oiled machine. They know precedent, they are extremely efficient. They are wonderful to work with. ’
‘Brian Stadler is the star. He has mentored associates and built them into a deep benched team. Matt Rogers is about to break out in his own right. ’
‘The Simpson team has a great cross-disciplinary practice, and brings creativity from its alternative investments practice into the REIT space. ’
‘Brian Stadler, Edgar Lewandowski, and others combine to provide full-service representation, with expertise in all aspects - including REIT formations, financing, capital markets and M&A. Client service takes precedence and egos are not an issue. Great combination of expertise and practicality. ’
Key clients
- Blackstone, Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust and Blackstone Mortgage Trust
- Invitation Homes
- KKR Real Estate Finance Trust
- Centerbridge Partners
- DigitalBridge Group
- BioMed Realty
- Oaktree Real Estate Income Trust
- J.P. Morgan Securities LLC
- QTS Realty Trust
- PS Business Parks
Work highlights
- Advised affiliates of DigitalBridge Group, Inc. and IFM Investors on their $11 billion acquisition of Switch, Inc.
- Represented Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust in a $4 billion investment in BREIT Class I common shares by the Regents of the University of California
- Advised KSL Capital Partners on its $1.4 billion acquisition of Hersha Hospitality Trust in an all-cash transaction
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Brian Stadler; Sasan Mehrara; Edgar Lewandowski
Other key lawyers
Nancy Mehlman; Matt Rogers