
DLA Piper has a strong real estate practice in Hong Kong, providing a full-service team that covers 'all of the clients' needs in a complex real estate transaction‘. Practice head Susheela Rivers has deep knowledge of the hospitality and leisure sectors. The group provides assistance with complex cross-border transactions such as acquisitions, joint ventures, structuring, and real estate asset financing in various sectors. Sally Law counts banks as key clients and is a go-to for the group’s real estate financing work. Another key team member is Ed Sheremeta, who stands out for his depth of knowledge in the real estate financing and investment spaces.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘DLA Piper's real estate and construction practice, particularly in the realm of foreign firms, stands out due to its exceptional professionalism and commercial acumen. What sets this team apart is their ability to seamlessly integrate legal expertise with a deep understanding of the commercial landscape, especially in complex markets such as China. Over the course of more than five real estate transactions in China, we have consistently observed their proficiency in negotiating favorable terms while maintaining strong relationships with local managers, which is crucial for future opportunities.'
- 'Potential clients should know that DLA Piper's team is not only highly knowledgeable in legal matters but also excels in fostering collaborative relationships. This dual capability ensures that clients receive comprehensive legal support that is both strategic and practical.'
‘The individuals at DLA Piper, particularly those we have worked with, such as Ed Sheremeta and Kenneth Lee, are exceptional in their dedication and responsiveness. Ed Sheremeta, a partner at the firm, brings an unparalleled level of expertise and strategic insight to the table. His ability to navigate complex legal frameworks while keeping the client's commercial goals in mind is a testament to his skill and experience. Ed's leadership ensures that the team operates cohesively and efficiently, providing top-tier service.'
- 'Kenneth Lee, an Associate at DLA Piper, has also been incredibly helpful and responsive. His attention to detail and proactive approach significantly contributed to the smooth progression of our transactions. Kenneth's ability to promptly address queries and provide practical solutions highlights his commitment to client service and his deep understanding of the real estate sector.'
- 'Overall, the qualities we have valued most in the DLA Piper team include their professionalism, commercial awareness, and unwavering support. Their ability to combine legal rigor with practical business advice makes them stand out from their competitors and positions them as a crucial partner in our real estate ventures.’
‘We use Ed Sheremeta's team at DLA almost exclusively as I think they key strength is advising what is market and what we kind of terms we can seek from our partners.'
‘DLA provided a full service team to cover all of the clients needs in a complex real estate transaction.’
'Ed Sheremeta is a senior partner whose extensive knowledge of the Asian real estate sector has been invaluable. Ed is deeply knowledgeable in the evolving real estate financing and investment landscape, providing exceptional insights right from the initial contemplation of transactions.'
Key clients
- PGIM Real Estate
- BlackRock Asset Management
- AirTrunk Hong Kong
Work highlights
- Advised PGIM Real Estate on the acquisition of the Ovolo hotel located in Central, Hong Kong, joint venture with Dash Co-living and financing with United Overseas Bank.
- Advised BlackRock on the formation of joint venture with Weave to invest in Citadines Mount Sophia in Singapore and on the related management agreements.
- Advised AirTrunk Hong Kong on its establishment of a new data centre in the New Territories, Hong Kong.
Lawyers

Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Susheela Rivers