Clifford Chance‘s real estate team handles a range of matters throughout the sector, from complex structuring and joint venture transactions, acquisitions, and dispositions, to financings and leasings. Further, the firm has a depth of experience in advising real estate funds, representing clients on investment transactions; it also has an established REIT practice, strengthening its position to advise on REIT compliance and associated joint venture matters. The team is led by Ness Cohen, who is also managing partner of the firm’s New York office; he specializes in real estate private equity and joint venture work. Also in New York is Kris Ferranti, who has experience spanning real estate acquisitions, dispositions, and development projects. Further support in the New York office is provided by Jeanne Roig-Irwin, who specializes in real estate financings, often representing developers, banks, and funds.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The US real estate team at Clifford Chance is known for providing excellent service and acting as a trusted adviser in complex transactions. They combine deep market knowledge with commercial acumen to deliver efficient, tailored solutions.'

  • ‘Kris Ferranti stands out for his exceptional ability to navigate complex real estate transactions with a keen commercial insight and a client-focused approach. His strategic thinking and deep understanding of market dynamics set him apart from competitors, making him a trusted adviser in the industry. Kris is known for his efficiency and ability to deliver tailored solutions that align with the client's business objectives. His collaborative nature and commitment to excellence are qualities that clients and colleagues alike highly value. Working with Kris means benefiting from his expertise, dedication, and the assurance of receiving top legal advice.’

  • ‘Excellent service and cohesive team. They don't let anything slip through the cracks and are thinking several moves ahead. Cool under pressure and an all-around great group that put the client's needs first.' 

  • ‘The team is efficient and commercial without sacrificing quality and level of engagement.’

  • ‘Kris Ferranti is an expert and applies care and ownership in all the transactions we are partnered on.'

  • ‘Provides very thoughtful and insightful legal advice helping guide us through many complex transactions. Thought of as a trusted adviser for all of our transactions.'

  • ‘Kris Ferranti is remarkable for his unique blend of expertise and client-centric approach. He stands out by consistently delivering tailored solutions that address specific client needs, setting him apart from others in the industry. His ability to foresee potential issues and navigate complex situations with ease is particularly impressive. Kris' dedication to fostering strong client relationships and his clear, effective communication make him a standout partner. His innovative thinking and strategic mindset are qualities that I have greatly appreciated in our collaborations.’

  • ‘I had the privilege of working with Kris Ferranti and his team on a large real estate deal and they were great to deal with and truly understood our goals and worked with us to accomplish them.’

  • 'Clifford Chance is head and shoulders above the rest.'

Key clients

  • Almanac Realty Investors
  • Avila Real Estate Capital
  • Madison International Realty, LLC
  • NY Life
  • The Olayan Group
  • Safra National Bank of New York
  • Stockbridge Capital Group
  • Wafra Inc.
  • YES Communities, LLC
  • US Bank

Work highlights

Advised CIL and its subsidiary, Frontier Scientific Solutions, in a multifaceted transaction that included a strategic partnership with GID.
Advised affiliates of Stockbridge Capital Group in a variety of legal matters relating to its Stockbridge MORE Communities single-family housing platform.

Lawyers

Next generation partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Ness Cohen

Other key lawyers

Kris Ferranti; Jeanne Roig-Irwin