Commercial Real Estate Paralegal

A nationally recognized law firm is seeking an experienced Real Estate Paralegal to support its Real Estate and Corporate Transactions practice. This position is based in Washington, DC.

The role supports a wide range of complex commercial real estate and corporate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures, development projects, financing transactions, private equity matters, and general corporate work. The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, comfortable managing multiple transactions simultaneously, and experienced in commercial (not residential) real estate matters. This individual will work closely with attorneys, clients, and third-party providers and may take a leadership role in training others.

• Conduct title, survey, and zoning reviews for commercial real estate transactions, including preparation of comprehensive summaries, document abstracts, title objection letters, estoppels, subordination/non-disturbance/attornment agreements, releases, notices, and related documentation.
• Communicate directly with title agents, surveyors, and zoning authorities to negotiate title policies, finalize surveys, and complete zoning reports; prepare title and survey memoranda.
• Coordinate directly with clients to obtain signatures, collect documentation, and support transaction logistics.
• Assist attorneys with due diligence, closing documentation, organizational documents, and the preparation of closing binders and deliverables.
• Support the formation, modification, and maintenance of corporate entities related to real estate transactions.
• Assist with commercial lease agreements, amendments, assignments, and related documentation.
• Draft, maintain, and distribute closing checklists and key date trackers to monitor deal progress and deadlines.
• Prepare, redact, and redline legal documents under attorney supervision, including organizational and acquisition/disposition documents.
• Organize and maintain electronic and physical filing systems for corporate and real estate matters.
• Advise attorneys and clients on ALTA title insurance standards, NSPS survey standards, and applicable zoning ordinances.
• Identify and highlight diligence issues and assist attorneys in evaluating and resolving such issues.
• Review recordable documents to ensure proper form and compliance prior to closing.
• Track post-closing title, survey, and zoning obligations and proactively ensure timely completion.
• Assemble execution packets, manage signature pages, and oversee electronic signature workflows through Docu Sign.
• Provide general support across commercial real estate, hospitality assets, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, and related transactional matters.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree and equivalent relevant work experience required.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of commercial real estate transactional experience.
• Experience reviewing due diligence materials for commercial real estate closings, including title, survey, and zoning (large law firm experience preferred).
• Experience supporting acquisitions and entity formation in transactional contexts strongly preferred.
• Commercial real estate experience required; residential experience alone is not sufficient.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong working knowledge of title, survey, and zoning matters related to commercial real estate.
• Exceptional attention to detail and high standards of accuracy.
• Ability to work independently, identify issues, and exercise sound judgment.
• Proven ability to manage multiple assignments, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including interaction with attorneys, clients, and external vendors.
• Demonstrated ability to train and mentor others.
• Collaborative and professional approach when working with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel.
• Experience with document and transaction tools such as Docu Sign, PDF editing software, and document comparison platforms.

The salary range for this position for candidates working or residing in Washington, DC is $80,000–$100,000, depending on experience, qualifications, internal equity, and relevant credentials.