Real Estate
Europe Guide 2024 : Belgium
Band 1
Contact number
+32 2 743 43 43About
Provided by Loyens & Loeff
Our strength: Structuring and taxation expertise is our strength and makes us the preferred partner in transactions and assignments where tax matters are of the utmost importance. Taxation is crucial in real estate transactions. Nearly all aspects of real estate law contain tax elements which may, in many cases, have a decisive impact on the profitability of an investment.
Major difference: The whole span of services needed by the real estate sector is offered: real estate investment (investment funds, transactions, finance), real estate management (asset management, environmental responsibilities, reorganisation) and real estate development (construction, planning and zoning). And in all these aspects we also assist our clients in contentious matters. Our integrated approach (tax and non-tax) and the scope of services offered differentiate us from other full-service law firms (that often focus on transactional and tenancy matters) and niche law firms (that often offer quality but in a narrower range of services).
Specific knowledge: Ability to assist with accounting standards and financial reporting questions (Belgian GAAP, Lux GAAP and IFRS) thanks to Yvan Stempnierwsky, former General Secretary of the Belgian Commission for Accounting Standards and current member of the working groups “legislation” and “legal doctrine” of the Luxembourg Commission for Accounting Standards.
Type of clientele: Mainly institutional investors.
Chambers Review
Best known for its strong work on the tax elements of real estate matters, Loyens & Loeff frequently assists Belgian and international investors with the structuring and execution of real estate transactions. The law firm represents clients in the acquisition of logistics, office and residential buildings. It also acts on due diligence, tender procedures and real estate disputes. The team often advises on share deals, as well as construction and development projects and zoning and permitting mandates.
Work Highlights
- Loyens & Loeff advised AXA Belgium on the drafting and negotiation of the agreement relating to the transfer of its long-term lease right on the Hendrik Conscience Building.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"I consider Loyens & Loeff to be one of the best law firms. Its lawyers not only excel in terms of knowledge but are also deal-driven, which means that we can make business decisions that are supported by sound legal information."
"The team at Loyens & Loeff is very professional and was able to execute the deal smoothly."
"It offers some of the best legal advice I have ever seen across different markets in Europe in terms of its service level and responsiveness."
"The team at Loyens & Loeff possesses excellent expertise."
"Loyens & Loeff has a strong ability to handle complex real estate transactions."
"I consider Loyens & Loeff to be one of the best law firms. Its lawyers not only excel in terms of knowledge but are also deal-driven, which means that we can make business decisions that are supported by sound legal information."
"The team at Loyens & Loeff is very professional and was able to execute the deal smoothly."
"It offers some of the best legal advice I have ever seen across different markets in Europe in terms of its service level and responsiveness."
"The team at Loyens & Loeff possesses excellent expertise."
"Loyens & Loeff has a strong ability to handle complex real estate transactions."
Notable Practitioners
Christophe Laurent often advises on high-ticket real estate investments and development projects. He frequently advises prominent investors, including pension funds, on tax-related aspects of transactions.
"Chirstophe Laurent does outstanding work for us."
"I highly respect Christophe Laurent. He is without a doubt a brilliant lawyer."
Ariane Brohez often assists with sales and acquisitions in the logistics sector and with renovations in the retail sector.
"Ariane Brohez is very serious, attentive to our needs and takes the time to explain things when you do not know the market well."
"Ariane Brohez is rigorous, reactive and a deal-maker. I highly recommend her for all real estate matters in Belgium."
"Ariane Brohez is very good technically."
"Ariane Brohez has exceptional knowledge and fiscal intelligence combined with knowledge of real estate, which is a combination that is valuable to us."
"Ariane Brohez's team spirit was very strong and she was always on top of things."