Senior-Level Affordable Housing Associate Attorney

Job Title:
Senior-Level Affordable Housing Associate Attorney

Job Overview:
A prominent law firm based in Chicago, IL is seeking a highly experienced attorney to join its nationally recognized practice focused on affordable housing and community development. This opportunity is ideal for a legal professional with a strong transactional background who is passionate about supporting projects that drive accessible housing initiatives. The role involves advising a wide range of stakeholders including developers, lenders, syndicators, and public agencies on complex real estate financing and development matters across multiple jurisdictions.

Duties:

• Manage full-cycle affordable housing transactions, including planning, negotiation, documentation, and closing.

• Advise clients on federal and state housing programs, with particular emphasis on LIHTC (4% and 9%) projects.

• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of legal agreements including partnership agreements, loan documents, and purchase and sale agreements.

• Conduct in-depth legal due diligence related to acquisitions, dispositions, and refinancing of affordable housing properties.

• Serve as lead counsel on projects, coordinating with developers, syndicators, lenders, and government agencies.

• Identify potential legal risks and proactively offer practical solutions.

• Ensure timely and accurate communication with all parties, keeping transactions on track and clients informed.

• Provide strategic guidance to clients on project structuring and regulatory compliance.

• Supervise and mentor junior attorneys and paralegals on transactional matters.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 6-8 years of legal experience in affordable housing or real estate finance within a law firm setting.

• Deep understanding of affordable housing finance, including experience with low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC).

• Familiarity with various transaction types such as acquisitions, exits, and refinancings.

• Strong experience representing developers; experience with investors, lenders, or syndicators is a plus.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

• Exceptional drafting, negotiation, and client-facing skills.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited U.S. law school.

Certifications:

• Active and good standing membership with the Illinois State Bar (or ability to waive in).

Skills:

• Sophisticated transactional drafting and analytical skills.

• Strong organizational capabilities with meticulous attention to detail.

• High emotional intelligence and ability to engage effectively with clients and team members.

• Independent initiative and a collaborative mindset.

• Clear, concise, and persuasive verbal and written communication.

• Ability to handle pressure and meet tight deadlines without compromising quality.

Job Location:

• Chicago, IL (On-site or Hybrid, depending on firm policy)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid vacation and holidays

• Generous parental leave

• 401(k) retirement plan with firm contributions

• Life and disability insurance

• Wellness and mental health support programs

• Professional development resources

• Family care assistance

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