Ian Graf

Ian dedicates his expertise to the commercial real estate sector, serving a diverse range of clients such as property owners, investors, and developers. His work spans across various aspects of real estate transactions including buying, selling, funding, leasing, and property development. In addition to guiding clients through the intricacies of real estate acquisitions and disposals, Ian's expertise extends to arranging finance deals for both lenders and borrowers. This includes dealings with banks, credit unions, insurance firms, and private financiers on a multitude of financing arrangements like loans for property purchase, construction, and long-term financing.

His advisory role encompasses the formulation of investment strategies in real estate, crafting and reviewing key legal documents, and addressing due diligence concerns to ensure smooth transaction closings. Ian's proficiency also shines in the realm of commercial leasing, where he aids both landlords and tenants by drafting and negotiating lease agreements, including those for ground leases and sublets.

When it comes to navigating the legal landscape of real estate development, Ian is well-versed in advising on matters related to rezoning, subdivision, and compliance with various real estate laws. His background includes a significant role as the chief legal officer for a real estate investment and development firm operating across Canada and the United States. Before his time at BLG, he honed his skills in commercial real estate law at a prestigious global law firm based out of New York.

Ian operates through a Law Corporation, offering his legal prowess across several high-profile transactions. Notable among these are his involvement in the multimillion-dollar sale of an office park in Richmond, B.C., the acquisition of a major development site in Burnaby, B.C., and facilitating a complex exchange of ownership interests in prime office spaces in Vancouver and Mississauga.

His excellence in the field of real estate law has earned him recognition in the 2024 edition of Best Lawyers in Canada®. Ian's academic credentials include an LLB from the University of British Columbia and a BBA from Simon Fraser University, complemented by bar admissions in British Columbia and New York. His areas of specialization cover a broad spectrum of real estate-related legal services, from investments and financing to project development and leasing, showcasing his comprehensive knowledge and experience in the sector.