With a particular focus on the hospitality sector, Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG acts for hotel developers and operators on the acquisition of single properties and portfolios in Austria and also supports developers on the construction of new facilities. Heading the team in combination are Karl Binder, a transactions specialist who also advises on the development of data centres and pharmaceutical plants, hotel and leisure sector expert Erik Steger, whose practice is primarily deal-focused, and Peter Oberlechner, who brings expertise in real estate development in addition to overseeing real estate-heavy M&A. Stefan Horn, who joined the firm’s partnership in September 2024, advises hotel and leisure clients on commercial leasing arrangements in addition to overseeing broad range of real estate transactions.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘We are highly satisfied with the outstanding work from Wolf Theiss. Their deep knowledge in the hotel and leisure sector, especially through Erik Steger and Stefan Horn, truly sets them apart. At Wolf Theiss, you are treated with genuine care and attention. Their strong team collaboration allows them to manage complex tasks efficiently and thoroughly.’

  • ‘Stefan Horn’s expertise in Austria’s real estate law, especially in the hotel and leisure industry, is unmatched. He combines exceptional communication and negotiation skills with a sharp focus on achieving the best outcomes for his clients. What stands out most about Stefan is his ability to identify the hidden risks and explain complex matters in a straightforward way. He is one of the most exceptional lawyers I’ve had the pleasure of working with across Europe.’

  • ‘Stefan Horn and his team are the perfect match for hotels and businesses in the leisure industry. His dedication to his clients' success and his professionalism are unmatched. Never have I met a lawyer who is so willing to give the utmost for his clients.’

  • ‘The real estate team at Wolf Theiss ticks all of the critical boxes for me in terms of expertise, responsiveness, appropriate staffing and commercial nous. What really sets them apart is their willingness to go above and beyond. They frequently exceed rather than meet our expectations. They are as invested in the success of our projects as we are ourselves.’

  • ‘In my experience, Karl Binder is one of the best real estate lawyers in Europe. He is entirely dependable, always clear and sensible and never gives anything less than 110%.’

  • ‘We are very satisfied with Wolf Theiss' real estate practice. In addition to their strong overall standing, I particularly want to highlight their market knowhow in the hotel and leisure industry. Their communication is clear and to the point. Wolf Theiss's longstanding focus on hotel and leisure projects—especially through the work of Erik Steger and Stefan Horn—makes this firm stand out, in our view.’

  • ‘I can highly recommend Stefan Horn, especially for anyone working in the hotel and leisure industry. He grasps the essential points of any matter and never loses sight of the details. Even in stressful situations, he works very thoroughly. Moreover, he is exceptionally responsive and always available.’

Key clients

  • OBI
  • ÖBB-Infrastruktur
  • Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
  • DSV Road
  • Deka Immobilien Investment
  • Bob W Technologies Finland
  • Wiener Linien
  • Vienna Insurance Group (VIG)
  • JPI Group
  • Radisson Hotel Group
  • UBM Development
  • Warimpex
  • GG Family Holding

Work highlights

  • Provided ongoing legal advice to the JPI Hospitality Investors Club on hotel development and lease agreements, in addition to the acquisition of five new international hotel developments.
  • Advised OBI on the optimisation of its store portfolio, including the installation of PV panels on the majority of its premises.
  • Advised Bob W on entering the Austrian market, including the drafting and negotiating of a hotel development and lease agreement for serviced apartments in Vienna, the setting up of an Austrian legal entity and the securing of the relevant permits.

Lawyers

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Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Karl Binder, Peter Oberlechner, Erik Steger

Other key lawyers

Stefan Horn, Elisabeth Pötscher