Dara Newman Histed

What do you focus on?

My interest in real estate development began during my time in college as an urban planning major, and I find it fulfilling to help clients close transactions and to see new buildings constructed. Primarily representing developers, owners and investors, I focus my practice on several aspects of multifamily housing development.

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).

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