Strategic Legal Guidance for a Changing Commercial Real Estate Landscape
Markets evolve—and so do the risks and opportunities within commercial real estate. At Pinna, Johnston & Burwell, P.A., we provide focused, forward-thinking counsel to developers, investors, landlords, tenants, and lenders navigating today’s complex property transactions. Whether you’re purchasing raw land, negotiating a lease, or structuring a 1031 exchange, our team works to protect your interests and maximize the value of every deal.
From Acquisition to Closing—We Deliver More Than Just Contracts
We don’t just manage the paperwork. We identify risks before they become problems, structure transactions for long-term tax efficiency, and advocate fiercely at the negotiation table. With decades of experience across all commercial property types, we provide practical insight and deep industry knowledge that go far beyond drafting agreements. We’re your legal partner at every stage of the transaction, with a sharp focus on your business objectives.
We represent buyers, sellers, and developers in the purchase and sale of office buildings, raw land, multifamily properties, shopping centers, and more—managing each step from due diligence through closing.
2. Leasing & Landlord-Tenant Matters
Our team drafts, negotiates, and reviews commercial leases and related documents, helping landlords and tenants avoid disputes and protect their investments.
3. Easements, Covenants & Land Use
We prepare easements, licenses, and restrictions to ensure land use aligns with business goals and legal requirements—especially in multi-parcel developments or shared properties.
4. Tax-Advantaged Real Estate Structuring
We advise clients on 1031 like-kind exchanges, opportunity zone investments, and other tax-efficient strategies to help build and preserve wealth through commercial real estate.
Commercial Real Estate Experts
Why Clients Choose Us for Commercial Real Estate Law
With millions of dollars in transactions successfully negotiated, we understand what it takes to close a deal while preserving your long-term interests. We know the industry, anticipate risks, and offer strategic, business-minded solutions at every turn. Whether the project is complex or routine, we treat every transaction as if it were our own—because for our clients, it is.
Broad Industry Experience
From flex space to multifamily developments, we’ve worked with every kind of commercial asset and structure.
Practical, Business-Focused Advice
We speak your language—advising not just on legal risk but on how to structure deals that support your growth.
Tax & Transaction Strategy Under One Roof
With attorneys and CPAs on our team, we align tax strategy with real estate execution for smarter outcomes.
FAQ - Commercial Real Estate
What is a 1031 exchange and how does it work?
A 1031 exchange allows you to sell a commercial property and reinvest the proceeds into another “like-kind” property while deferring capital gains taxes. We guide clients through the strict timing and documentation requirements to ensure compliance and protect tax benefits.
What due diligence is necessary when buying commercial property?
Key due diligence includes title review, environmental inspections, zoning compliance, lease analysis (if tenants exist), and more. We proactively identify red flags and provide practical advice on how to address them before closing.
What should I look for in a commercial lease?
A good lease protects your rights, clarifies responsibilities, and reduces future risk. We help landlords and tenants navigate terms such as CAM charges, maintenance duties, assignment rights, and rent escalations.
How can I protect myself in a real estate partnership or joint venture?
We draft operating agreements, buy-sell provisions, and investor agreements that clearly outline contributions, decision-making authority, profit-sharing, and exit strategies. This helps prevent disputes and align interests.
What’s the benefit of using an attorney in a commercial real estate transaction?
Our legal insight ensures that contracts, financing, tax structures, and risk mitigation strategies are all aligned with your business goals. We don’t just close the deal—we help make sure it’s the right deal.
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