Real Estate: District of Columbia

THE FIRM This vibrant real estate practice has extensive expertise, ranging from acquisitions to joint ventures. The group's core areas of focus include the leisure and hospitality industry, sports arenas and senior living facilities. It also advises major lenders on the investment and financing of real estate projects. The firm has developed long-lasting relationships with developer and contractor clients, thanks to its ability to provide both business and legal advice. It provides key advice to Marriott International on transactions in the real estate and hospitality sectors.

Sources say: "Skilled professionals with deep knowledge of DC real estate and surrounding matters."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Newman is known as "the go-to guy for DC bonds." According to clients, "it is impossible to think of another lawyer who represents the private side of bond deals with his level of expertise." Newman also works on financing for nonprofit organizations.

Kimberly Wachen has a "glowing reputation in DC." She is strong in the hospitality sector, and has also been active in portfolio transactions for senior living facilities. Her highlights include advising a major manufacturer on the construction and development of a facility.

Due to his laid-back approach and ability to provide practical counsel, Michael Leahy is recommended as the "consummate deal partner." He is actively engaged in commercial real estate transactions, and notably represents long-standing client Washington Real Estate Investment Trust.

Firm chair Mark Katz is well known for his work for major real estate funds. He also advises major lenders on financing, and has been involved in joint venture transactions. Clients note that he is "a great resource, with good general market knowledge."

THE FIRM Arnold & Porter brings deep expertise to development deals, and also represents clients in programmatic financing for real estate funds. It also specializes in partnership-related real estate work, having acted for joint ventures and PPPs. Highlights for the team include assisting Qatari bank The First Investor with joint venture negotiations, due diligence and tax structuring for a $620 million equity investment in CityCenter DC.

Sources say: "The value I get from Arnold & Porter is by far the best. They are very approachable, which makes all the difference."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients hail Michael Goodwin as "a superstar," while peers praise him as "the smartest guy – the best real estate lawyer." He recently worked for Vornado Realty Trust on the $127 million sale of office buildings.

Gary Humes is one of the firm's lead lawyers in PPP transactions, especially those with federal government interests. Clients say he is "a knowledgeable and competent attorney in the real estate field," with one adding: "I wouldn't hesitate to use Gary." Humes advised the Center for Strategic & International Studies on the financing, acquisition and construction of its headquarters.  

Jennifer Perkins heads the firm's leasing practice and recently advised Vornado Realty Trust on the tenant and lender requirements for a joint venture transaction regarding office properties worth $526 million. Clients appreciate that her abilities help them to "develop a high level of quality."

Peers highlight young attorney Amy Rifkind as "a hard worker – very bright and an excellent lawyer." She focuses on representing major DC developers in redevelopment projects as well as major retail financings, and also has expertise in debt financing and federal transactions.  

THE FIRM This leading firm stands out for its national coverage, with outstanding lawyers in several states enabling it to handle projects in various jurisdictions. The real estate practice is active in leasing, acquisition, financing and joint venture matters, and is noted for its annual Global Real Estate Summit, which provides clients with networking opportunities and market connections.

Sources say: "Their connection and thoughtfulness exceed most firms in the USA."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jay Epstien chairs the firm's US real estate department and is "widely regarded as one of the top guys in the city," to whom peers would happily refer cases. Epstien recently represented ING Clarion in connection with a high-profile 400,000 sq ft lease transaction for the DC office of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom.

Peers "would definitely recommend clients to" Frederick Klein, claiming he is "a delight to work with." Clients say they "don't know of a more connected lawyer than him," and peers agree that "he knows everyone in town and knows what is going on." Klein has been busy of late in a major hotel acquisition for Westbrook Partners.

Jeffrey Keitelman is noted among peers as possibly "having more business than any other real estate attorney in Washington." He is currently representing the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey in connection with One World Trade Center.

THE FIRM Real estate is one of the core practices at this firm, which handles traditional acquisition, disposition and leasing matters. In addition, the department has recently been bolstered by the acquisition of a zoning and land use team with expertise in military housing and privatization. The group's ability to undertake complex and sophisticated transactions means it is often involved in PPP and joint venture work. Notable clients include universities, major lenders, real estate trusts, property developers, owners and retailers.

Sources say: "It's not one of the largest firms but we get just as professional attention at a more economic price, and we like the responsiveness."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Maureen Dwyer has a broad practice but is particularly noted for handling zoning work for educational institutions, and recently acted for George Washington University on securing approval to construct a new science and engineering hall. She is well known in the zoning and land use community, with sources commending her as being "helpful and business-oriented," as well as "a great person and a very good lawyer."

Sheldon Weisel is an experienced attorney who is "very thorough, cheerful, experienced and knowledgeable." He has represented Boston Properties in connection with acquisitions, financing, development and joint ventures.

Distinguished land use attorney Phil Feola has worked for City Interests in connection with approvals for a Child Development Center, and for Forest City Enterprises on the development of retail space.

Allison Prince is recommended as "a terrific practitioner and a credit to the land use Bar." She has advised JBG L'Enfant Plaza on land use matters and zoning approvals.

Thomas Kaufman is noted for his skill in representing large publicly traded REITs in real estate finance and management matters. His recent highlights include representing a REIT in the acquisition of hospitality assets, and handling real estate transactional work for both lenders and developers. "He is very knowledgeable and detail-oriented," say clients.

John Ratino also represents large REITs interested in acquiring hospitality assets, but focuses on the joint venture and acquisition part of the project. He is effective in structuring transactions so as to maximize the benefit from a tax perspective. According to sources, he is "very experienced, business-minded, responsive and resourceful."

THE FIRM This preeminent firm provides a broad range of services to both medium and large-scale clients. The department is active in the development stages of new projects, assisting in securing financing and arranging for leasing of the end product. It includes one of the major land use and zoning groups in DC, handling clients' approval and entitlement needs. Recent highlights include advising Jamestown Properties on the acquisition of the iconic Madison Hotel.

Sources say: "A very solid firm with a lot of talented people."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Norman Glasgow has an outstanding reputation among both peers and clients, who claim he is "terrific – in terms of zoning and land use in DC there is no one better than him." He has been involved in the Hoffman Madison project of late, gaining approvals from the zoning commission for a 3,165,000 sq ft mixed-use development. 

Whayne Quin is praised as "the dean of zoning." He recently advised Akridge on a mixed-use development near Union Station, and acted for McMillan on a mixed-use development at a 25-acre reservoir site.

Known as "the queen of leasing," Janis Boyarsky Schiff stands out for her expertise in retail leasing. She handles national deals for the biggest retail developers, shopping center owners and lenders. Clients agree that she is "indefatigable in terms of work ethic and responsibility to her client."

David Briggs has a well-established land use and zoning practice, focusing on condominiums, and is one of the few lawyers in DC to excel in tenants' rights. He has advised on building code processes and regulatory requirements for entitlements.

David Kahn is known as "one of the brightest people in Washington," with one client saying: "In terms of thoughtfulness and ability to provide different options, I haven't found anyone better in DC." Kahn has had a busy year in leasing, restructuring and financing matters, with highlights including representing Jamestown Properties in connection with the Madison Hotel.

David Silver has a diverse practice, tackling commercial leasing, development and financing. Clients note his connections and that he is "a world-class lawyer," and he is recommended for his responsive attitude toward clients.

Chad Tiedemann is renowned among peers for his development work. Clients appreciate his cost-effective and efficient service, and that he is "a relationship person who takes the time to get to know you."

THE FIRM This leading law firm takes center stage for its representation of special servicers in mortgage modifications and debt sales. The real estate team is adept in advising clients on related development, commercial, tax, land use and finance matters. The impressive client list includes LaSalle Investment Management, Fannie Mae and the International Bank for Reconstruction & Development.

Sources say: “The quality of their work is excellent. They have a high work ethic and are tuned in to clients' needs while still charging reasonable rates.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Philip Horowitz is a nationally recognized lawyer who focuses on leasing for large institutional users and developers. Clients praise him as "an excellent real estate attorney who is very strong in leasing matters and in advising on business aspects as well as the law."

Practice chair Robert Gottlieb is a well-respected attorney and "an expert in real estate tax structures," say clients. He assisted a large regional home builder with the acquisition and mortgage debt foreclosure process relating to the acquisition of a piece of land.

Thomas Millspaugh represents pension advisers investing capital in real estate. Clients note that "he is always looking out for us, not only in an effort to save money but also thinking about things down the road." 

Sources describe Stefan Tucker as a "legend," and clients highlight his experience in the estate planning area of real estate. He focuses on advising high net worth individuals.

THE FIRM This prominent firm is active in the area of transactional real estate, with a team that excels in handling acquisitions, dispositions and financings. It has been involved in numerous deals for leading property owners and major lenders, and clients particularly recommend its expertise in joint ventures.

Sources say: "It is excellent – by far our go-to firm. Good execution, timely response and thoughtful engagement."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Barry Rosenthal has an excellent reputation among peers for undertaking technical and complex work: "He knows how to do deals – having him on the other side is seen as a plus," they say. Clients note Rosenthal as "a super attorney – a real problem solver who is also technically proficient." He recently represented a leading developer in connection with the financing and refinancing of transactions.

Clients commend Michael Pickett for his outstanding work ethic and because he is "helpful, thoughtful and diligent." He is also well respected by peers, who note his "pleasant demeanor." Pickett has been involved in representing a major developer in joint venture acquisitions and redevelopment.

THE FIRM Hogan Lovells has a strong international focus and expertise in the corporate and REIT sectors of real estate. Its prowess in the hospitality sector has enabled the firm to expand its practice from the Napa Valley to major luxury hotel and resort projects in Maldives and Dubai. For example, the team recently advised King Abdullah University of Science & Technology in Saudi Arabia on lease structuring. The clientele includes many significant national and international names, such as Abu Dhabi Tourism Development & Investment, Cafritz Interests and Interstate Hotels & Resorts.

Sources say: "An excellent law firm."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Bruce Parmley is very well known for his hospitality practice, and acts for a strong base of owners and investors. His recent highlights include advising Mubadala Investment on the structuring of agreements for the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi.

Carol Weld King has a strong reputation as an expert practitioner in the hospitality arena. She specializes in representing hotel operators and investors, and recently advised a REIT on the formation of a joint venture to acquire real estate assets.

THE FIRM This team acts for both national and international clients that are looking to do business in DC, and for DC clients that are interested in doing business nationally or internationally. It has a strong equity-based practice, and is also adept at acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, hospitality and joint ventures. The group represents institutional capital clients including private equity and other funds, such as New York Life and OptAsia Capital. It has assisted Carlyle Realty with several matters, including acquisitions, arranging funding and negotiating operation agreements.

Sources say: "They are smart and recognize all the issues, but practical when it comes to assessing what really matters."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Peers describe Keith Willner as "an excellent lawyer" to whom they would happily refer clients. "He is able to express complex legal concepts simply and clearly, and is also very practical," say clients.

Frank Henneburg heads the real estate practice in DC and is also head of the firm's global hospitality and leisure practice. He focuses on financing for institutional investors and lenders, and is "a straight shooter who calls it as he sees it," according to peers. "He has a cool, objective approach and a very good reputation." 

THE FIRM This well-experienced team handles a host of traditional real estate matters, including acquisitions, financings and joint ventures. It recently assisted a major client with reorganizing its real estate companies, advising on the corporate and tax aspects as well as real estate.

Sources say: "Smart and experienced."

KEY INDIVIDUALS John Engel is the firm's lead partner on military housing matters. He is well regarded by peers, and clients hail him as being "first rate" in the practice area. He has recently represented clients in two large building dispositions in New York, and in a mixed-use development in Vienna.

Wendelin White is a well-connected and active practitioner, who stands out for her participation in various real estate associations. Her work highlights include advising Lowe Enterprises and JBG Enterprises on a joint venture to develop a mixed-use property in Northeast Washington.

THE FIRM This strong firm provides seamless advice on real estate litigation, tax and bankruptcy. The team has significant experience in structuring deals for the acquisition or disposition of properties encumbered by some element of debt, and in ensuring tax efficiency in real estate transactions. Highlights include representing a real estate development company in the acquisition of distressed debt.

Sources say: "Work is always of the highest quality – they are very client-friendly and I find they deliver a very good product for the cost."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Peers highlight John Hagner as "one of the best real estate attorneys in the USA – he has great skill and wisdom." He also earns praise from clients, for being "thorough, careful and knowledgeable." Hagner recently represented a life insurance company in the acquisition and redevelopment of a property.

Pamela Rothenberg is recommended for her work on large signature transactions, and is an expert at working on challenging public REITs. She is praised as being "capable and knowledgeable in her field."

Well-experienced practitioner Richard David focuses on commercial real estate transactions. He is "a great draftsman and deal person," say peers, and adept at "intricate, complicated financings."

THE FIRM This well-established law firm is noted for its representation of developers and lenders. The broad practice covers dispositions, financing, bankruptcy, tax and land use, among other matters. Recent highlights include representing Level 2 Development and Centrum Properties in the sale of View 14 Apartments.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Abraham Greenstein handles the development, financing and leasing of real estate projects. One peer working on a project with Greenstein stated: "He is doing a very good job suggesting compromises so we can get the deal done."

Peers, tenants and government sources agree that Richard Luchs is an expert in tenants' rights. As such, he is frequently active in condominium and other residential work, and is highlighted for his "unparalleled expertise in that area."

THE FIRM This boutique firm is very active in representing family businesses, advising on real estate, tax, estate planning and other general business matters. Loyal clients praise the firm's creativity, responsiveness and work ethic.

Sources say: "They're very good, and doing a lot of deals."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Beyda has a long-standing reputation for representing family money real estate owners in DC. "He has some amazing clients," say peers, and "his reputation is fantastic."