Dara Newman Histed

What do you focus on?  

Acquisition, financing and development

I work with developers and owners on all aspects of acquiring, financing and developing multifamily housing. I recently worked with a developer to recapitalize and rehabilitate a 967-unit affordable apartment complex in Boston, Massachusetts. As another example, I work closely with the country’s largest apartment owner to sell its investments in affordable housing communities financed with low-income housing tax credits (LIHTCs).

Joint venture transactions and general real estate transactions

I work with developers and institutional investors to draft and negotiate joint venture agreements for companies that are acquiring, developing, and operating multifamily properties across the country, some located within opportunity zones.

I represent landowners and developers with their general real estate transactions and assist on all aspects of real estate sales or acquisitions, including negotiating purchase and sale agreements and loan documents as well as managing the due diligence review process.

Land use and permitting

Another important part of my practice is land use and permitting work for buildings of all sizes. In one recent project, I helped obtain the needed permits and approvals to construct a market-rate apartment building in the Boston area.

What do you see on the horizon?

The Massachusetts governor is aiming to produce 10,000 multifamily housing units annually through 2020, especially dense developments near urban centers and public transportation. I am excited to work with the developers creating these units, helping the Commonwealth retain its talented young residents and provide housing for its aging population.

Publications

• “Careers in Real Estate: Advice from Practitioners,” Urban Land Institute (panelist)
• If You Can’t Build It, They Won’t Come: Condominium Construction Moratoria and Gentrification,” Boston College Environmental Affairs Law Review, Vol. 35, No. 3 (2008) (author)

Presentations

• “Affordable Housing Investment,” BISNOW Mulifamily Annual Conference East (BMAC), McLean, VA, November 28, 2018