Real estate

Baker McKenzie LLP

Recently expanding both its capital markets and renewable energy practices, Baker McKenzie is knowledgeable of mixed-use and residential developments. Sebastian Busa oversees the team from Sydney and is informed in purpose-built facilities, while Caroline Ho is a key contact for inbound institutional investors. Roy Melick is often engaged in the acquisition and sales of commercial CBD buildings and Melbourne-based Dora Stilianos is versed in high-end residential off-the-plan subdivisions. Operating out of Brisbane, Sarah Merrett is experienced in renewable energy projects.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The real estate team is professional and provides excellent advice to progress matters in an effective way. I appreciate that they make themselves available with the workflow demands.'
‘The team has diverse experience in hotel sales, acquisitions, development, and financing across multiple markets in Australia and regionally. The team has depth and extensive skills in the technical legal aspects of this work, including corporate & commercial, real estate, employment, and hotel management agreement negotiations.’
‘They have deep relationships, experience, and know-how which facilitates more constructive negotiations and transaction execution.’
‘The team consists of highly experienced lawyers with diverse backgrounds and skill sets, all of whom have specialised knowledge. This enables the team to offer expert advice from multiple perspectives and tailored solutions for a wide range of legal issues.'
‘Baker McKenzie's real estate team is a specialised practice that stands out due to its intricate blend of real estate, hospitality, and corporate law knowledge.'
‘Baker McKenzie real estate practice has a broad range of skills, but what really sets them apart is the people and how dedicated they are to delivering for their clients to the highest possible standard and in a timely manner.’
‘The team has consistently provided highly valuable legal advice and support to our organisation on a number of complex commercial transactions.'
'Sebastian Busa is professional, client-focused, an excellent communicator, and superior in his concise legal advice.’

Key clients

Brookfield Property Group Australia Pty Limited
TFE Hotels
Aria Hotel Partners
AW One Circular Quay Pty Ltd
Avantaus
mRNA Victoria
Global Power Generation Australia Pty Ltd
7-Eleven International LLC
Hallinan's Pty Ltd
Atmos Renewables

Work highlights

Acted for Brookfield on the sale of the Sofitel Brisbane Central Hotel to City Developments Limited.
Advising TFE Hotels on management agreements and leases for new hotel developments, re-branding, and services agreements.
Acted for Aria Hotel Partners on the purchase of Fuggiri Island in the Maldives and the negotiation of hotel management and licensing agreements with Marriott and Bulgari.