The Times, They Are A Changing...

 

As we enter the 8th week of the Covid-19 shutdown I wanted to take stock of what has changed for me and how my role in the office has transformed.

Being a landlord-tenant litigator, I have essentially spent my days in Housing Court daily for the better part of the last 23 years. With Housing Court closed and the stay of evictions currently until mid-June, I have reverted to my roots, real estate transactions.

With the stay at home order in place and social distancing a norm, we have had to adapt on the fly in the closing of deals. This past week, the numerous deals closed in a variety of manners: using power of attorney; parties present but social distancing enacted at the closing table; title closers present but sitting in a separate room; no parties present with all documents and funds being sent to a title company to hold in escrow and disburse accordingly.

These transactions all took much communication and coordination but with one common theme, the parties were motivated to close.

This upcoming week we have a full slate of deals set to close. The same as last week, the parties are motivated and will do what’s necessary to get the deals closed.

On the Housing Court front, as of now there’s no indication when courts will be opening. However, on April 30th Chief Administrative Judge Marks issued a memo giving more leeway to virtual appearances, conferences, the argument of motions and potentially e-filing of pleadings. This appears to be the first step in getting Housing Court back online and up and running.

Even with courts closed, we are still dealing with many landlord-tenant related issues. With the escalation of Covid-19, the non-payment of rent and other lease related issues has been rampant. Many landlord clients have sought guidance on how to deal with these issues while we’ve received countless referrals from tenants seeking advice on the other end of the spectrum. The common theme in these discussions: communication. Landlords and tenants should look to resolve issues in a manner beneficial to each side.

Just because one is socially distancing doesn’t mean one can’t be socially active. This past week I participated in a virtual networking group, the second held since the Covid-19 shutdown. I was also a guest panelist for a class held by Jamie concerning commercial leases as well as a panelist with Jamie for a Corcoran group discussion hosted by Seth and Zulla regarding leasing in the month of May.

The times, they are a changing nonetheless there are many ways to stay active and relevant.

Have a great week and stay safe!!