Thoughtful, comprehensive guidance on commercial real estate
Steve Ross advises his clients on complex commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, sales, leasing, financing and corporate formation. He regularly negotiates lease agreements on behalf of landlords and tenants, purchase agreement on behalf of buyers and sellers, and loan documents on behalf of borrowers and lenders with an emphasis on complex commercial construction loans.
Steve values a holistic approach in representing his clients. Whether they are borrowers, lenders, purchasers or sellers, he brings the knowledge he has gained representing both sides to every subsequent representation he undertakes. Steve uses clear and effective communication to ensure his clients have a solid comprehension of the various issues pertinent to each transaction, as a means to successfully navigate the unique pitfalls inherent to any given deal.
During law school, he was involved with Student Legal Relief, a group focused on raising awareness of social and legal issues impacting impoverished communities.
Experience in Action
- Negotiates purchase, leasing and operating agreements, as well as various other instruments related to real estate financing and development on behalf of borrowers and lenders.
- Guides major developers in negotiating the acquisition, financing and disposition of multifamily developments valued in the tens of millions throughout the United States.
Successes
- Represented a Wisconsin-based investor in the $72+ million purchase of a large multifamily apartment complex in Bolingbrook, IL. Advised on negotiation and terms of purchase and sale agreement, and provided title and survey analysis.
- Represented administrative agent for lenders in a $110 million first lien term loan credit facility for construction of a distribution center.
- Represented institutional tenant in negotiation of 20,000 square foot office lease.
- Represented institutional real estate investor in ongoing acquisition and disposition of various senior housing facilities (including disposition of $80 million portfolio and acquisition of $55 million facility).
- Represented purchaser in a $40 million acquisition of business holding title to over a dozen car wash facilities. Assisted with real estate diligence, reviewing leased and owned real property documents, drafting and negotiating collateral real estate documents including easement agreements and reviewing title insurance.
Capabilities
Professional Recognitions
- Best Lawyers in America® "Ones to Watch" (2024: Real Estate Law)
Professional & Civic Activities
- Chicago Bar Association, member
- Illinois State Bar Association, member
News & Insights
Education
- University of Illinois College of Law (J.D., cum laude, 2016)
- Pro Bono Notation, awarded for completing in excess of sixty hours of pro bono work during law school
- Member of the Corporate and Business Law Association and the Law Review
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (B.A., 2013)
- CALI Excellence for the Future Award for Top Score in Real Estate Finance, Fall 2014
Bar Admissions
- Illinois