My journey in the New York City real estate legal world started in 2013, driven by my passion for real estate and a desire to help people within the intricate world of property transactions. Growing up, my father would always take me along with him on real estate development projects, so needless to say, my interest in real estate law comes from my organic and underlying interest in real estate. My parents immigrated from Egypt to Canada in the 1980s, and their dream (as with most newcomers to North America) was to own a home. In my family’s case, that spiraled into buying, selling, fixing and flipping real estate over the years. As my career developed, I was naturally drawn to the idea of assisting individuals in navigating property transactions and making sure my clients’ interests were protected. During my studies at New York Law School, I was able to focus my academia on real estate law. When I graduated law school in 2012, getting a job as a real estate attorney was not easy due to a lack of available jobs and market conditions, but my first job as a junior associate gave me immediate hands-on experience and taught me how to hit the ground running.
Historically, the real estate legal industry is a male-dominated field, with few women holding prominent positions. Developing my career as a female real estate attorney in New York City did not come without its challenges. Overcoming some of the barriers and stereotypes required dedication, building a strong network and delivering high-quality work. Specific to real estate law, being hyper-focused, organized, well-versed in negotiations and maintaining constant communication with all parties is key. Having a family and children (under five) contributes to the challenges faced when it comes to balancing workload and the urgency that often goes with it. In addition to having brokers and clients needing immediate updates, a mom (or dad) also has children who also have immediate needs (usually wants!). Speaking from personal experience, the balancing act is not easy, but it is fulfilling to be able to show my daughters that we women can do it. Encouraging and lifting up other women is an important aspect of my work and fundamental to have that support in a work environment, which is why our firm started the Romer Debbas Women in Real Estate Law (RD W.I.R.E) group. This group works to foster mentorship, career growth and female empowerment at our firm.
Over the past ten years as a real estate attorney, I am pleased to have carved a successful path for myself, contributed to an inclusive future for women and made my immigrant parents proud of the hard work they invested in a new country. My recent promotion to partner at Romer Debbas, LLP is a wonderful honor and recognition of the hard work and determination I have invested in my career. I look forward to continued growth and excellence at this great law firm, working alongside some of the most highly recognized attorneys in NYC.
Throughout my legal career, I was exposed to various roles ranging from in-house counsel to law firm attorney positions—all of which had positive contributions to my growth as a real estate professional. Currently, I am a senior associate with the Agency Lending and Affordable Housing Department at Romer Debbas LLP, where my focus is on multifamily commercial real estate financing backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These two main government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) operate under congressional charters to help stabilize mortgage markets and protect housing during stressful financial periods. It has been a rewarding journey thus far to be involved with agency lending, given the impact it has on affordable housing. This important topic remains at the forefront of a wider conversation in the commercial real estate industry as federal and local governments and GSEs are combatting the lack of affordable housing through various initiatives, which can present an opportunity for multifamily owners as well as lenders across the country. Fortunately, my experience prior to my arrival at Romer Debbas LLP has enabled me to leverage the institutional knowledge gained in my previous roles to understand clients’ business and credit decisions while zealously performing my duties as an attorney. One of the driving factors in continuing my legal career with agency lending is being part of a movement that gives individuals access to safe, decent, affordable housing in neighborhoods where everyone has equitable opportunities to thrive.
Networking is also a powerful tool that has led to my own career growth. My involvement as a Board Member with the Romer Debbas Women in Real Estate Group (W.I.R.E.) has allowed me to exchange valuable ideas with colleagues while taking on a leadership and mentorship role. As a means of “paying it forward,” I can help younger associates and professionals navigate through certain career challenges. The organization is also very involved with social outreach and charity events that address significant issues ranging from women’s full participation in all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life and addressing poverty and hunger within the community.
On a personal level, my Filipino-American heritage has been a source of pride, strength and inspiration. It has enabled me to shape my work ethic and discover my passion for not only becoming an attorney but one that facilitates solving legal issues while motivating colleagues to think creatively and participate fully. During my childhood, I saw my parents work long hours and multiple jobs, but with gratitude and an immense amount of hospitality, care and respect toward their co-workers, friends and neighbors—a Filipino value known as “kapwa.” One of the many life lessons I have learned from my parents that I continue to reflect on today is that although not every circumstance is ideal, nor every resource available, through resilience and grit, one will undoubtedly achieve success.
In today’s changing landscape of real estate law, I encourage legal professionals—young and seasoned—to appreciate all opportunities presented and use them not only to advance their goals but to contribute to the community. I am grateful to Romer Debbas LLP for giving me this platform and for empowering me to celebrate who I am as a second-generation Filipino-American female attorney practicing in the exhilarating area of real estate law with a focus on agency lending and affordable housing.
