Real Estate (Finance) Associate

Job Overview

An elite law firm is seeking a Real Estate Finance Associate with 3–7 years of experience to join its Chicago office. This role is ideal for attorneys with a strong background in commercial real estate debt financing transactions, including both traditional and complex deal structures. The position provides an opportunity to work on high-profile matters involving mortgage and mezzanine financings, preferred equity, construction loans, and restructuring work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Location

• Chicago, Illinois

Duties

• Advise clients on complex commercial real estate finance transactions

• Structure and negotiate:

  • Mortgage and mezzanine loans

  • Preferred equity investments

  • Bridge and permanent loan originations

  • Construction loan agreements

• Draft and negotiate co-lender agreements, syndications, participations, and intercreditor arrangements

• Counsel lenders and investors on workouts, loan restructurings, and distressed asset scenarios

• Coordinate with tax, corporate, and other legal teams to structure transactions

• Represent a mix of institutional lenders, debt funds, and private equity sponsors

• Manage deal flow and supervise junior associates and paralegals where appropriate

Requirements

• 3–7 years of relevant real estate finance experience at a top-tier law firm

• Substantial experience in commercial lending and real estate structured finance

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex transactional work with multiple stakeholders

• Strong client service orientation and ability to thrive in a high-volume environment

• Proven success handling responsibility for deal management and client communications

Education

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

• Admission to practice law in Illinois or eligibility for admission

Certifications

• No specific certifications required; experience in structured finance or CRE capital markets is a plus

Skills

• Proficient in real estate finance documentation and deal structuring

• Excellent legal drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills

• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced practice

• Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including:

• • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Retirement savings and 401(k) plan options

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Family support and wellness programs

• Performance-based bonus potential

• Opportunities for career advancement and high-value deal exposure

The Illinois law office is the biggest workplace of the firm. The time-honored law practice opened for business at this location one-hundred and three years ago. To date, there are six-hundred and fifty seasoned attorneys staffed at this location. There are eight areas of practice. Disciplines consist of litigation, corporate, real estate, intellectual property, restructuring, tax, employee benefits and tax-estates. The Midwest office received a LEED Silver Certification for their green interior design.