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CRE Alert: Legal Power Plays, Leasing Surges & Lessons from Investor Scandals

Big Red Flags & Bold Buys

May 17, 2025

In partnership with

In a significant move to bolster expertise, Adler & Stachenfeld LLP has integrated six professionals from boutique firm Seiden & Schein PC—including founding partner Alvin Schein—into its real estate practice. This merger reinforces Adler & Stachenfeld’s role as a powerhouse in New York’s legal and real estate sectors.

Here’s what to know:

• Legal Synergy: The combined team enhances service across transactional and development advisory work.
• Leadership Addition: Alvin Schein’s respected track record adds depth to the firm’s client counsel.
• Market Signal: A continued strategic legal team consolidation trend as CRE complexity grows.
• Competitive Edge: Clients gain from broader institutional knowledge and reinforced legal horsepower.

This move positions Adler & Stachenfeld to lead more sophisticated deals and precisely navigate the evolving regulatory terrain.

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NAI Parsons Commercial Group has been named exclusive leasing agent for the Riverwalk Innovation District in Lawrence, MA—a 3.6 million square foot mixed-use campus with major momentum.

Highlights of this development:

• Flexibility First: Office and retail units available from 500 to 70,000 square feet.
• Amenity-Rich: Includes on-site dining, fitness centers, and modern collaboration spaces.
• Location Advantage: Prime riverfront access with strong regional transport connectivity.
• Developer Vision: The Lupoli Companies are investing in community-focused growth.

With its forward-looking design and flexible leasing options, Riverwalk is poised to attract tech firms, life sciences, and mission-driven tenants seeking dynamic space.

Despite recent financial hurdles, Fathom Holdings is leaning into innovation with its “Elevate” agent compensation program—offering a 20% commission split and expanded support services.

Here’s what’s happening:

• Agent Surge: 22.8% YoY increase, now totaling 14,715 agents.
• Financial Strategy: Net losses remain, but revenues are up 32.1% YoY.
• CEO Outlook: Marco Fregenal believes Elevate will drive higher margins and improved retention.
• Industry Note: Highlights a broader CRE trend—brokerages adopting performance-linked models and scalable support.

This shift reflects how CRE firms are rethinking agent value propositions in a tech-driven, margin-conscious market.

Texas-based franchisee Charles Carrier, affiliated with “We Buy Ugly Houses,” is under investigation for allegedly operating a Ponzi scheme that impacted numerous investors.

Key takeaways:

• Investor Fallout: Many victims are now seeking restitution through legal and foreclosure actions.
• Ethical Response: HomeVestors has severed ties and reaffirmed a focus on compliance and accountability.
• Lessons Learned: Due diligence and transparent deal structuring remain essential safeguards.
• Community Resilience: Investor efforts underscore a theme of strength, justice, and financial recovery.

For CRE professionals, it’s a sobering reminder to vet partnerships rigorously—and a testament to the power of investor networks rallying for redress.