Corporate Real Estate Counsel Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the business world, the significance of corporate real estate counsel has never been more pronounced.

As the corporate landscape evolves, so does the demand for proficient experts who can negotiate, manage, and protect our corporate real estate assets.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a corporate real estate counsel?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of corporate real estate law,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable corporate real estate counsel job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Corporate Real Estate Counsel Duties and Responsibilities

Corporate Real Estate Counsels are primarily involved in providing legal advice on real estate matters for corporations.

They are experts in real estate law and transactions, and have a deep understanding of commercial property issues.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Advising corporations on real estate legal issues, including leases, purchases, sales, and property disputes
• Reviewing, drafting, and negotiating commercial real estate agreements such as leases, purchase agreements, and deeds
• Working closely with corporate executives to develop and implement real estate strategies
• Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws and regulations
• Conducting due diligence for real estate transactions, including title reviews and environmental assessments
• Resolving property management issues, such as tenant disputes or property maintenance matters
• Representing the corporation in any real estate litigation or arbitration proceedings
• Staying updated on current trends and legislation in the field of real estate law

 

Corporate Real Estate Counsel Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a diligent Corporate Real Estate Counsel to advise on all legal aspects of our real estate operations.

The key responsibilities include drafting and negotiating real estate transactions, assessing legal risks, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

The ideal candidate should be well-versed in commercial real estate law, possess excellent negotiation skills, and demonstrate a solid understanding of business strategies and operations.

 

Responsibilities

• Navigate a variety of real estate transactions including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, and financings
• Review, draft, and negotiate real estate contracts and agreements
• Provide legal counsel on issues arising from real estate transactions
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal laws regarding real estate transactions
• Coordinate with external counsel where necessary
• Advise on potential legal risks and suggest mitigation strategies
• Maintain current knowledge of industry trends and legislation that may impact the company

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Real Estate Counsel or similar role
• Extensive knowledge of real estate law and industry legal standards
• Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Strong analytical ability and problem-solving skills
• J.D. degree from an accredited law school and a member in good standing of a state bar

 

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Health, vision and dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Corporate Real Estate Counsel
• Work Environment: Professional office environment. Travel may be required for property visits and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the General Counsel or Chief Legal Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $160,000 minimum to $250,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Corporate Real Estate Counsel Do?

Corporate Real Estate Counsels typically work for large corporations or law firms that specialize in real estate.

They can also offer their services as independent legal consultants.

Their main role involves providing legal advice and representation to corporate clients in matters relating to real estate.

This includes acquisitions and disposals, leasing, management, development, financing, and restructuring.

Corporate Real Estate Counsels are responsible for drafting, reviewing, and negotiating real estate contracts such as purchase agreements, lease contracts, and financing agreements.

They also handle legal issues relating to property management, such as disputes with tenants or issues concerning property maintenance.

They also play a crucial role in conducting due diligence on prospective real estate deals.

This involves reviewing title documents, survey documents, environmental assessments, and local zoning laws to identify potential legal risks and advise the client accordingly.

Additionally, they may also represent the corporation in court or before regulatory bodies in case of any legal disputes or proceedings relating to real estate.

They must stay updated on changes in real estate law and market trends to provide the most relevant and effective advice to their clients.

Overall, the Corporate Real Estate Counsel plays a crucial role in the strategic planning, decision-making and risk management in relation to a corporation’s real estate portfolio.

 

Corporate Real Estate Counsel Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Corporate Real Estate Counsel requires skills and qualifications that align with your job requirements, such as:

• Comprehensive knowledge of real estate laws and regulations to provide accurate legal advice and counsel to the corporation.
• Analytical abilities to examine and interpret complex contracts, leases, and legal documents related to real estate transactions.
• Strong negotiation skills to represent the corporation in property acquisition, lease negotiations, and dispute resolution.
• Exceptional communication skills to clearly articulate complex legal matters to executive management and to collaborate effectively with stakeholders.
• Attention to detail to ensure all documentation, contracts, and agreements are compliant with local, state, and federal laws.
• Problem-solving skills to identify potential legal risks and devise strategies to mitigate them.
• Organization skills to manage multiple projects and transactions simultaneously, ensuring all timelines and objectives are met.
• A Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and a valid license to practice law in the state.
• Experience in corporate law, commercial real estate transactions, and property law.

 

Corporate Real Estate Counsel Experience Requirements

Candidates for a Corporate Real Estate Counsel role typically require a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and must have passed the Bar Exam in the jurisdiction in which they intend to practice.

This role usually requires a minimum of 5 to 7 years of experience in a law firm or corporate legal department with a focus on real estate law.

Entry-level candidates may have experience through internships, clerkships, or part-time roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, or real estate companies.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience often have developed their skills in real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, and real estate finance.

They may also have experience in conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, and handling legal proceedings related to real estate.

Candidates with more than 7 years of experience often have a deep knowledge of real estate law and corporate law.

They may have extensive experience in negotiating real estate contracts, managing real estate litigation, and advising corporate clients on real estate investment and development projects.

Those with over 10 years of experience may also have leadership experience, having supervised junior attorneys and paralegals.

They may be ready for a role as a Senior Real Estate Counsel or other management position in the legal department of a corporation.

Their experience may also include developing and implementing legal strategies and policies related to corporate real estate transactions and operations.

 

Corporate Real Estate Counsel Education and Training Requirements

To become a Corporate Real Estate Counsel, a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school is required.

This usually takes three years of postgraduate study to complete.

Before gaining admission into law school, candidates must first complete a bachelor’s degree.

While there is no mandated pre-law major, courses in economics, business, and finance can provide a helpful foundation for the complexities of real estate law.

As law school students, aspiring Corporate Real Estate Counsels may benefit from taking classes in property law, tax law, and corporate law.

Some may choose to focus on real estate law specifically, if it is offered.

Once the J.D. degree is obtained, candidates must then pass the bar examination in the state where they wish to practice.

This is a rigorous examination that tests knowledge on a range of legal topics.

Following licensure, it is beneficial for the Corporate Real Estate Counsels to gain experience in real estate transactions, either through entry-level positions in law firms, real estate companies, or corporate legal departments.

Additionally, some Corporate Real Estate Counsels may choose to pursue a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in real estate or a related field, or achieve a certification from a professional organization such as the American Bar Association, although these are not mandatory.

These advanced credentials can demonstrate a deeper understanding of real estate law and can be beneficial in a competitive job market.

Continuing legal education (CLE) is also essential for Corporate Real Estate Counsels to stay updated on changes in real estate and corporate law.

 

Corporate Real Estate Counsel Salary Expectations

A Corporate Real Estate Counsel can expect to earn an average salary of $147,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, the size of the company they work for, and their geographical location.

 

Corporate Real Estate Counsel Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Corporate Real Estate Counsel need?

A Corporate Real Estate Counsel should have a solid understanding of real estate laws and regulations, along with relevant corporate laws.

They should possess strong negotiation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to strategize and problem-solve complex legal issues.

Excellent communication, both oral and written, is crucial as they often have to liaise with various parties and present complex legal concepts in understandable terms.

 

What qualifications are needed to be a Corporate Real Estate Counsel?

A Corporate Real Estate Counsel should have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and must be licensed to practice law in their respective state.

Experience in commercial real estate law, either through internships or previous work, is typically preferred.

Additional qualifications or certifications in real estate law can be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in a Corporate Real Estate Counsel’s resume?

A Corporate Real Estate Counsel’s resume should highlight their education, including law school achievements and any specializations.

Look for relevant work experience in the field of real estate law, specifically corporate real estate, and any significant cases they have handled.

Additional skills such as contract negotiation, due diligence, and regulatory compliance should also be mentioned.

 

What qualities make a good Corporate Real Estate Counsel?

A good Corporate Real Estate Counsel must be analytical, able to interpret and apply complex laws to various situations.

They need to be detail-oriented, ensuring that all transactions are legally sound and beneficial to the corporation.

Good communication skills are essential for explaining legal concepts to non-lawyers.

They should also be proactive, able to anticipate potential legal issues and propose preventive measures.

 

What is the role of a Corporate Real Estate Counsel in a company?

A Corporate Real Estate Counsel is responsible for managing all legal aspects related to the company’s real estate portfolio.

This includes drafting and negotiating contracts, ensuring regulatory compliance, handling disputes, and providing advice on real estate transactions.

They work closely with management, providing legal advice to support strategic decision-making.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on what it really means to be a Corporate Real Estate Counsel.

Surprised?

It’s not just about legal advisement.

It’s about shaping the future of corporate real estate, one decision at a time.

With our comprehensive Corporate Real Estate Counsel job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why halt your momentum?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next move towards creating laser-sharp listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every legal decision is part of a larger vision.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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