Real Estate Finance Associate (2–3 Years)

Industry: Real Estate / Banking / Structured Finance

Location: New York, NY

A premier U.S. law firm is seeking a mid-level associate (2–3 years of experience) to join its Commercial Real Estate Finance group in New York. The team represents commercial and investment banks, insurance companies, debt funds, and other lenders in financing transactions involving a wide range of commercial property types.

The role offers exposure to loan origination, title and lease diligence, mezzanine financing, and CMBS transactions, with the opportunity to work directly with institutional clients and leading deal teams.

Why This Firm

This firm is a recognized leader in real estate finance, known for advising institutional lenders on complex, high-value transactions nationwide. Associates benefit from direct access to major clients, hands-on deal experience, and a collaborative team structure. The group operates at the intersection of real estate, capital markets, and finance, making it a strong platform for associates who want to build deep, versatile transactional expertise.

What Associates Say

Attorneys in the real estate finance group highlight the balance of mentorship and independence, with many gaining deal ownership early in their careers. Associates appreciate the mix of structured and bespoke work, the collegiality of the team, and the chance to work with major institutional clients in a fast-paced but supportive environment.

Ideal Candidates Will Have:

• 2–3 years of experience representing lenders in commercial real estate finance transactions
• Hands-on experience with title, survey, lease, and commercial property diligence
• Familiarity with loan origination, mezzanine loans, or securitization/syndication of commercial mortgage loans (preferred)
• Strong academic credentials and prior law firm training
• Admission to the New York Bar, or eligibility for admission

Compensation:

Base salary range: $235,000 – $265,000, based on experience and qualifications. Bonus eligible.