Real Estate Finance Lawyer

About the CompanyOur client is a rapidly growing commercial real estate financing platform headquartered in New York. Founded five years ago, the company has quickly emerged as a market leader with a national footprint. Along with its affiliates, the platform has closed more than $2 billion in commercial real estate financing, specializing in construction, bridge, and HUD transactions.As the company continues to scale, it is launching an innovative in‑house law firm to support its expanding deal volume and strategic initiatives.About the OpportunityThe General Counsel is seeking an entrepreneurial, business‑minded attorney to lead and build this internal law firm from the ground up. This is a unique opportunity for a lawyer who wants to combine sophisticated transactional work with the creativity and autonomy of establishing a new legal practice.The internal firm will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of the parent company, with the company serving as its sole client. The role offers the ability to shape the legal function, build best‑in‑class processes, and work closely with senior leadership across the platform.Key ResponsibilitiesServe as the lead attorney for the company’s real estate financing transactions, with a focus on construction, bridge, and HUD loan closings.Build, develop, and manage the internal law firm’s operations, systems, and legal practices.Draft, review, and negotiate loan documents and related transactional agreements.Partner closely with internal stakeholders including originations, underwriting, asset management, and executive leadership.Manage external counsel as needed while driving efficiency and standardization.Ensure compliance with federal, state, and agency regulations related to commercial real estate financing.Contribute to strategic decision‑making as a key member of the legal leadership team.QualificationsJ.D. from an accredited law school; admitted to practice in New York (or ability to register as in‑house counsel).5–10+ years of experience in commercial real estate finance, ideally including construction, bridge, and/or HUD loan transactions.Strong transactional drafting and negotiation skills.Entrepreneurial mindset with the desire to build something new within a growing company.Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with business teams.Experience in a law firm or in‑house real estate finance role is highly preferred.Why This Role Is UniqueBuild and lead a new legal entity within a high‑growth real estate finance platform.Entrepreneurial environment with direct access to senior leadership.High impact: your work will directly influence the company’s growth strategy and deal execution.Competitive compensation and long‑term career growth potential.