Mark S. Edelstein

Mark S. Edelstein has built a reputation as one of the nation’s leading real estate attorneys, with decades of experience guiding financial institutions, developers, and investors through some of the industry’s most challenging transactions. His work covers acquisitions, sales, financing, private equity, and restructuring, often involving landmark projects that have reshaped the New York City skyline.

Mark earned his B.A. summa cum laude from City College of New York before completing his J.D. magna cum laude at Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, where he graduated first in his class. His academic excellence laid the foundation for a career dedicated to solving complex financial and legal issues in real estate, lending, and restructuring.

Mark’s practice spans real estate finance, workouts, and bankruptcies. He has represented lenders and investors in mortgage and construction financing, borrowing base facilities, mezzanine lending, and intricate intercreditor arrangements. His experience also extends to distressed assets, chapter 11 proceedings, and high-profile debt restructurings. Mark has handled matters for some of the country’s most notable real estate names during critical industry downturns, including the 1990s crisis and the Great Recession, when he played key roles in high-stakes cases involving General Growth Properties and Extended Stay Hotels.

Recognition for Mark’s achievements includes repeated listings in Best Lawyers in America, Chambers USA, Legal 500, and Who’s Who Legal. He has also been named a Real Estate MVP by Law360 multiple times, a Real Estate “Trailblazer” by the National Law Journal, and a “Power Lawyer” by the Commercial Observer. Additional honors include placement among the top 30 real estate lawyers globally and in the United States by Euromoney’s Expert Guides.

Mark S. Edelstein continues to be a trusted advisor whose insight, strategic counsel, and unmatched experience provide clients with guidance in navigating the most complex real estate challenges. He is also a prolific author and lecturer, contributing thought leadership on finance, equity, and workout strategies. His articles have appeared in leading industry journals, and he has been recognized as a Top Author by JD Supra Readers’ Choice Awards. His involvement with real estate trade groups and editorial boards underscores his influence and commitment to advancing the field.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Morrison & Foerster LLP
• Member, Urban Land Institute
• Member, Association of Foreign Investors in Real Estate
• Member, Mortgage Bankers Association
• Member, Real Estate Lenders Association
• Member, International Council of Shopping Centers
• Member, Real Estate Board of New York
• Member, Real Estate & Construction Council of Lincoln Center
• Member, Real Estate Networking Trust

Licensed State

• New York

Education

• Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• City College of New York
  BA with Summa Cum Laude

Awards & Badges