Real Estate Finance Associate - Phoenix

Real Estate Finance Associate

Direct Counsel represents a prestigious AmLaw firm seeking a Real Estate Finance Associate to join its nationally recognized Real Estate Finance Practice Group. This opportunity is ideal for a mid-level to senior associate with at least 3 years of experience handling sophisticated commercial real estate finance transactions.

Locations: Multiple

Responsibilities:

• Represent lenders in complex commercial real estate finance transactions
• Draft and negotiate loan agreements, mezzanine financing documents, preferred equity documents, and related transaction materials
• Manage loan origination transactions from inception through closing and post-closing
• Advise clients on asset management, loan workouts, restructurings, and exit strategies
• Coordinate due diligence, transaction teams, and closing processes
• Handle secondary market repurchase facility transactions and related financing structures
• Work directly with clients, borrowers, and internal legal teams to facilitate successful deal execution
• Support the continued growth of the firm's national real estate finance practice

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active bar admission in the jurisdiction where the candidate intends to practice
• Minimum of 3 years of commercial real estate finance experience
• Experience with large structured finance transactions, including:
• Loan originations
• Mezzanine financing
• Preferred equity transactions
• Asset management matters
• Loan workouts and restructurings
• Experience drafting primary loan documents and managing transactions independently
• Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple sophisticated transactions in a fast-paced environment
• Strong academic credentials

Preferred Attributes:

• Experience representing institutional lenders
• Ability to navigate complex transactional matters efficiently and strategically
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong commitment to client service and team collaboration
• Interest in contributing to the growth of a national practice

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary range: $215,000 – $390,000 annually, depending on experience
• Discretionary performance bonus opportunity
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid Time Off (PTO)