Job Description

Are you an experienced real estate attorney ready to take on complex, high-value deals?

Underberg & Kessler LLP is hiring a seasoned Commercial Real Estate Associate Attorney with 4–7 years of experience in commercial real estate and development. This role is designed for attorneys who can independently manage deals, supervise staff, and serve as a trusted advisor to sophisticated clients.

You will work closely with partners and clients on complex, high-value transactions involving real estate acquisitions, development, leasing, and financing. Our clients include regional and national developers, financial institutions, municipalities, and growing businesses across New York State.

Position Overview:

Manage and advise on a variety of commercial real estate transactions, working with sophisticated clients and collaborating with experienced attorneys and support teams. Take ownership of deals and deliver trusted legal counsel with confidence from purchase and sale agreements to commercial leasing and mortgage financing.

Real Estate Transactions:

• Manage all aspects of commercial real estate deals, including acquisitions, sales, development, leasing, and mortgage financing
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex contracts, including loan documents, purchase and sale agreements, easements, and commercial leases
• Conduct detailed title and survey reviews, identify potential issues, and resolve encumbrances or objections
• Perform due diligence analysis and coordinate environmental, zoning, and land use reviews
• Lead transaction closings from start to finish, including preparing closing checklists and ensuring compliance with timelines and deliverables

Client Advisory & Representation:

• Serve as primary counsel to regional and national developers, lenders, investors, and municipalities
• Provide strategic legal guidance on deal structuring, risk mitigation, and compliance with state and federal regulations
• Interface directly with senior decision-makers and in-house counsel to provide timely, business-oriented advice
• Represent clients in connection with development projects, including negotiation with municipal agencies and regulatory bodies

Team & Project Management:

• Supervise non-attorney staff, including paralegals and closing coordinators, to ensure accuracy and timeliness across transactions
• Coordinate with attorneys across practice groups (e.g., litigation, tax, corporate, trusts & estates) to support multidisciplinary client matters
• Contribute to the growth and success of the Real Estate & Finance Practice Group through mentoring, knowledge sharing, and thought leadership
• Participate in client development efforts and support firm initiatives that advance innovation and client service

Qualifications

• 4–7 years of commercial real estate law experience, with a focus on complex transactions and development
• J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to practice in New York State
• Demonstrated expertise in negotiation, deal management, and client advisory work
• Experience overseeing closing personnel and managing timelines and deliverables
• Tax credit, municipal or commercial leasing experience is a plus

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and associate bonus plan
• 401(k) with 3% profit-sharing + 2% employer contribution
• Medical, dental, vision, life, short-term and long-term disability insurance 4 weeks paid time off + 8 holidays and 1 floating holiday
• Hybrid work schedule after onboarding
• Professional mentorship and career development support

About Underberg & Kessler LLP

With a long-standing history of excellence, Underberg & Kessler has been proudly serving businesses and individuals across Western New York for over 100 years. As a trusted legal partner, we are known for delivering top-tier legal services while fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where attorneys can grow, thrive, and make a meaningful impact.

Underberg & Kessler LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

• Please submit your cover letter, references and resume to Leslie Helmerci, Legal Operations and HR Manager, at lhelmerci@underbergkessler.com

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