Real estate transactions involve a wide range of people and entities – from first-time home buyers to land developers, builders and commercial landlords. Allen Susser and Manuel Irizarry, Jr. of our Real Estate Practice Group apply years of practical knowledge and legal experience to the purchase, sale, development and financing of commercial and residential real estate. The Real Estate Group includes dedicated associates and paralegals to ensure competent and cost effective representation. 

Recently, the Group represented the purchaser of two automobile dealership properties together with construction loan financing with a total value of approximately $30 million.  For another client,  the Group settled a mortgage forecloure priority dispute in which our client was paid in full and attorney fees were covered. 

Under any circumstances, all real estate transactions involve important issues with long term ramifications. Real estate contracts need to be drafted or amended to protect against a wide variety of eventualities, including the right to a detailed home inspection, pest infestation and environmental findings, title defects and restrictions, insurance requirements, and mortgage and related financing issues. Residential and commercial refinancing is beneficial for a variety of reasons, primarily to raise capital, take advantage of advantageous interest rates or reorganize debt.

The firm is also experienced with strategies homeowners and commercial real estate owners may need when faced with potential foreclosure and/or sales in a difficult market. Manuel Irizarry, Jr. has spoken and written on short sales and is experienced with the intricacies that can make real estate transactions so frustrating. Other attorneys in the firm are always available to assist with related issues such as bankruptcy and business reorganization.

The firm is always ready to assist its clients in navigating the unique hazards of commercial real estate transactions. For example, the sale or leasing of commercial properties such as office buildings, warehouses, shopping centers, manufacturing facilities and apartments requires the review of a myriad of potential problems, such as environmental contamination, tenancy problems and title and land use restrictions.

Landlord and tenant law governs the rental of commercial and residential property. It includes the preparation and negotiation of commercial and residential leases, disputes between landlords and tenants, and the resolution of various eviction issues, among others. Procedure is very important to landlord and tenant law. A valid cause of action can result in dismissal if the technical requirements are not followed.

Land use matters involve the interplay of municipal regulations and property development, which tend to change over time. Current and potential land use needs should be considered for both individual and corporate real estate transactions. For example, these issues arise when land is subdivided or an addition is planned for a house or when a developer needs to provide for parking with new construction.