The real estate group at Morrison Foerster provides expert advice on a wide range of commercial real estate transactions. The practice handles all types of real estate financings, purchases and sales of related assets, and advises on the structuring and formation of joint ventures with significant experience working with all major asset classes from office and housing to retail and hospitality properties. The team is noted for its experience handling large syndicated term and construction loans, and deals involving multiple layers and types of debt. Mark Edelstein leads the global real estate group from New York, with a practice concentrated on real estate finance and private equity. Leading the US practice are co-chairs Jeffrey Temple, also in New York, and Thomas Fileti, positioned in the Los Angeles office, who focuses on real estate finance transactions and credit facilities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Very good commercial knowledge, unique understanding of government contracts regulations. Availability, and understanding of the urgency of M&A workstreams.’

  • ‘What sets this practice apart is its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and client-centric service. The team’s unique blend of deep industry expertise and forward-thinking strategies consistently delivers exceptional results, making them a standout in the field.'

  • 'Potential clients will be impressed by the team's exceptional depth of knowledge, multidisciplinary approach, and proven track record of success. Their collaborative culture ensures that every client benefits from the collective insights of highly skilled professionals who work seamlessly across specialties.'
  • 'Compared to other firms, this practice distinguishes itself through its proactive problem-solving, personalized client engagement, and ability to adapt quickly to emerging industry trends.’
  • ‘The individuals I work with exemplify professionalism, innovation, and a relentless commitment to excellence. What truly sets them apart is their ability to combine deep technical expertise with a personalized, client-focused approach that fosters trust and delivers exceptional results.'

  • 'Together, these individuals create a powerhouse team driven by shared values of integrity, innovation, and excellence. Their collaborative spirit, combined with unmatched technical acumen, ensures that clients receive not only industry-leading service but also a genuine partnership built on trust and mutual success.’
  • ‘Very commercial; able to provide real business advice.’

Key clients

  • RIDA Development Corporation
  • Realty Income Corporation
  • Reuben Brothers
  • Builder Homesite, Inc.
  • Goldman Sachs
  • RH (formerly known as Restoration Hardware)
  • Breedon Group PLC
  • U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc.
  • M&T Bank

Work highlights

Representing RIDA Development in connection with the acquisition and financing of the Hyatt Regency Resort in Orlando, Florida.
Represented capital partner Realty Income Corporation on a joint venture with Digital Realty Trust to develop two build-to-suit data centers in Northern Virginia for Wells Fargo.
Represented a sponsor on a 2,000-acre master development on the west side of Puerto Rico, to be known as Esencia. Currently anticipated to involve partnerships with leading luxury brands including Aman, Mandarin Oriental, and Rosewood, among others, and to contain multiple golf courses, a private airport and marina, a town center, and direct beachfront access.

Lawyers

Practice head

Mark Edelstein; Thomas Fileti; Jeffrey Temple