When you are a
commercial real estate developer, it can feel like the deck is stacked against you. In addition to the inevitable problems that come up on the job site — rain delays and late deliveries — it can feel like you spend most of your time jumping through hoops to meet the legal and administrative requirements of a development project.
At Downey & Associates, PC, we help real estate developers stay focused on what they do best — planning, building and creating. We manage the distracting, but vital, legal issues related to zoning, entitlements, financing, permits and licensing.
Our firm represents developers, builders, contractors and real estate investors who need sound advice about real estate law matters. If you do business in Denver, the greater Colorado area, or surrounding states, contact us to learn more about how our services can benefit you.
Avoid Delays, Headaches and Money Pits
Legal problems at a construction site can put you behind schedule, land you hot water and cost you money. When you are facing an obstacle, you need to get past it quickly and cost-effectively. With more than 35 years of experience, the commercial real estate lawyers at Downey & Associates can help you get back on track.
We help clients resolve legal matters related to construction and development, including:
- Obtaining commercial finance options and construction loans
- Drafting, reviewing, enforcing and negotiating contracts
- Resolving zoning, entitlements and land use issues
- Acquiring permits and licenses
- Filing mechanics' liens
- Resolving construction defects claims and other construction litigation
Related: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Inking Commercial Real Estate Deals
Contact Us
To speak with one of our knowledgeable commercial real estate attorneys today about an issue related to a commercial lease, zoning, construction defects, construction loans or other construction and development challenges you are facing, call 303-813-1111 or contact us online. We can offer you sound legal advice and effective strategies to keep your project on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of having a commercial real estate attorney during the development approval process in Denver?
Having a commercial real estate attorney during the development approval process in Denver offers significant benefits. They navigate the complex web of local regulations, represent your interests at public hearings, and liaise with governmental agencies to expedite approvals. This can significantly reduce the risk of delays and legal complications.
How can a commercial real estate attorney help with financing options for development projects in Denver?
A commercial real estate attorney can help with financing options by negotiating favorable loan terms, assisting with the preparation of financial documents, and ensuring compliance with lending regulations. Their guidance helps secure the necessary funds under terms that are beneficial for your development project.
What approvals and submittals do large Denver commercial projects typically need, and how do you sequence them to avoid delays?
Many sizable projects start with pre application meetings and may require Large Development Review or an Infrastructure Master Plan. Site Development Plan review, building permits, and related approvals follow, all coordinated through Denver’s Community Planning and Development. We build a sequencing map that aligns entitlement steps with financing and design milestones. Our team tracks the city’s published review time dashboards to set realistic internal schedules. Early coordination reduces resubmittals and keeps the project eligible for targeted programs and reviews. The result is a predictable path from concept to permits and ground breaking.
How do Colorado construction defect laws affect development schedules and dispute strategy?
Before suing over alleged construction defects, claimants must follow a statutory notice of claim process. That process gives construction professionals a right to inspect and to make an offer to repair or settle. It can pause litigation and create timelines that developers must plan around. We integrate these steps into contracts and schedules so claims do not stall financing or delivery. Knowing the process helps us resolve issues early or tee them up properly for court. Careful compliance reduces surprises and preserves defenses.
If a mechanic’s lien is recorded mid project, can you bond around it to keep financing, draws, or closings moving?
Yes, Colorado law allows an owner to substitute a court approved surety bond or undertaking for the lien. Filing the bond in the district court can release the property from the lien’s cloud on title. That substitute security lets lenders continue with draws and allows sales or closings to proceed. We prepare the bonding papers and coordinate with the surety and title company. Meanwhile, the dispute proceeds against the bond rather than the property. This tool keeps projects on schedule while the claim is litigated or resolved.
How can I get in touch with a commercial real estate attorney in Denver for my development project?
If you need a commercial real estate attorney in Denver for your development project, we are here to help. Our team at Downey Law, P.C. is experienced and ready to assist you with all aspects of your real estate development needs. Please contact us to discuss your project and how we can support you.
Additional Information in Denver, Colorado
- National Association of Realtors - Commercial Research: Provides extensive research reports, market analysis, and industry trends related to commercial real estate. This resource helps developers stay informed about the latest market conditions and make data-driven decisions for their projects.
- Colorado Division of Property Taxation - Property Valuation and Taxation for Business and Industry: This resource provides valuable information on the valuation and taxation process for commercial properties in Colorado, which is essential for understanding financial aspects in construction defect cases.
- Development and Land Use Planning: The Colorado Department of Local Affairs offers a comprehensive toolkit for officials focusing on development and land use planning. This resource provides guidelines and best practices for planning sustainable communities, managing land use, and integrating economic development with environmental stewardship. It includes detailed sections on zoning regulations, land use policies, and strategies for effective community engagement.
