Real Estate

Herbert Smith Freehills offers end-to-end real estate services to leading property companies across Australia. Its real estate team possesses depth and quality of expertise in mixed-use, commercial and residential property matters in addition to corporate, tax and finance expertise. The team is experienced in handling many of Australia's largest real estate deals. Its clients include major players in the domestic real estate market, including leading funds, real estate and development companies, and significant global investors operating throughout the country, with such notable clients as Lendlease, M&G Real Estate and Frasers Property.

"We appreciate HSF's pragmatic and strategic approach when providing advice. The team has good commercial acumen and understands the business deliverables."

"We tend to use HSF in very complex transactions, particularly where the structure is outside the norm. They have experts in a number of areas to provide the right solution."

Herbert Smith Freehills advised Dexus Property and Frasers Property on the approximately AUD3 billion redevelopment of land known as the Central Place Sydney project.

David Sinn is widely respected as a leading real estate lawyer. He frequently acts for major property groups in relation to acquisitions and developments and is particularly noted for his work on matters involving real estate trusts. "David makes very complex matters easy to navigate. He's a savvy and commercial lawyer."

Julie Couch is a well-established figure in the market and is noted for her experience acting on leasings and major urban developments. "Julie Couch handles very complex leases really well."

Frank Poeta has a strong reputation for his expertise in property matters and is widely regarded as one of the top real estate practitioners in Western Australia. He often acts on commercial and mixed-use developments. "Frank is an excellent adviser with a strong understanding of the market in which he advises. He provides commercial advice which is outcomes-focused."

Jane Hodder is an experienced figure who is well respected for her expertise with regard to property developments and transactions. Her clients include developers, property groups and funds. "Jane does very complex work. She can handle very tight timeframes and has always been able to get us across the line."

Luke Simpson is a well-respected figure who assists clients on property acquisitions and commercial developments. "Luke is very successful in Brisbane and is a real authority in the market."

Michael Back is a highly experienced practitioner who frequently acts on property acquisitions. His clients include REITs and major real estate groups.

Nicholas Cowie counts real estate groups and property developers among his clientele. An established figure in the market, he often acts on residential developments and property acquisitions. "Nick demonstrates an incredible attention to detail and work ethic."

Christopher Blue acts for property companies and investment groups in relation to the acquisition, development and sale of major property developments in Brisbane.