Real Estate Finance Associate Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

Real Estate Finance Associate Attorney
Locations: Chicago, IL or New York, NY (Hybrid – 3 days in office / 2 days remote)
Compensation: $240,000 – $300,000 base salary (commensurate with experience)

Direct Counsel is seeking a Real Estate Finance Associate Attorney to join a leading law firm’s Real Estate practice in its Chicago or New York office.

The ideal candidate will have 3–5 years of real estate finance experience , representing lenders and investors in permanent, construction, and mezzanine loan transactions. Experience across a variety of asset classes—including commercial, healthcare, office, multifamily, retail, industrial, and auto-related properties —is preferred.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Representing lenders and investors in real estate finance transactions, including permanent, construction, and mezzanine financings

• Handling acquisitions and dispositions of commercial real estate

• Drafting and negotiating commercial leases (office, retail, warehouse, and industrial)

• Managing matters independently while collaborating closely with partners and client teams

• Participating in client-facing and business development activities

Qualifications:

• 3–5 years of real estate finance experience at a law firm

• Experience closing acquisitions and dispositions and negotiating commercial leases

• Strong academic credentials and a J.D.

• Excellent drafting, organizational, and communication skills

• Admission to or progress toward admission in Illinois or New York

Why This Opportunity:

• Sophisticated, top-tier real estate work in a personalized, collaborative environment

• Meaningful responsibility and client contact

• Strong commitment to professional development and mentorship

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits

• Hybrid work arrangement (three days in office, two days remote)

The firm is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.