POSITION OVERVIEW
Butler & College seeks an experienced Commercial Real Estate Paralegal to support our growing commercial real estate practice. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in land acquisition, land banking transactions, bill of sale transfers, commercial closing coordination, and document preparation. This role offers an opportunity to work on complex commercial transactions in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Commercial Real Estate Paralegal will perform the following duties:
Prepare and review documents for commercial real estate transactions including purchase agreements, deeds, promissory notes, mortgages, UCC filings, bills of sale, and closing documents
Conduct title research and preliminary title opinions; identify title defects and work with title companies and clients to resolve issues
Coordinate commercial closings including arranging dates, locations, coordinating with lenders, title companies, and all closing parties
Manage land acquisition files from initial intake through recording; track deadlines and ensure timely document preparation
Assist with land banking transactions including option agreements, lot option purchase agreements, and phased acquisition structures
Prepare closing statements and final settlement documents; ensure compliance with lender requirements and applicable law
Handle bill of sale transfers, including preparation of bills of sale for equipment, improvements, and personal property in connection with land and development transactions
Prepare title commitment reviews and work with title companies on endorsement requests and policy issuance
Conduct UCC, lien, and judgment searches; file UCC financing statements and amendments as needed
Maintain organized transaction files with proper documentation and backup systems
Communicate with clients, lenders, title companies, and closing agents to keep transactions on track
Coordinate recording of documents with county recorder offices and obtain recorded copies
Prepare affidavits, legal descriptions, surveys, and other supporting documents as needed for transactions
Assist with commercial loan documentation and escrow coordination
Handle administrative tasks including file opening, cost tracking, bill disbursement, and client account management
Support attorneys with legal research and transaction analysis
Perform other duties as assigned to support the commercial real estate practice
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate must have:
Minimum 3 years of paralegal experience in commercial real estate law (land acquisition, land banking, commercial closings preferred)
Strong knowledge of commercial real estate transactions, closings, and documentation
Experience with title work, title commitments, and title insurance requirements
Familiarity with UCC filings, lien searches, and judgment searches
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Adobe PDF
Experience with document management systems and closing software
Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple transactions simultaneously
Strong attention to detail; ability to spot errors and inconsistencies
Professional communication skills; ability to communicate clearly with clients and third parties
Ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Reliable, responsible, and self-motivated work ethic
High school diploma or GED (Associate degree or paralegal certification preferred)
Understanding of South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia real estate law (or willingness to learn)
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience or knowledge in any of the following is a plus:
Paralegal certification or Associate degree in Paralegal Studies
Experience with residential real estate closings
Knowledge of commercial loan documentation and SBA requirements
Experience with entity formation and corporate documents
Familiarity with development transactions and builder relationships
Experience in multi-state transactions
Knowledge of ALTA endorsements and title insurance requirements
REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
Technical Proficiency: Proficient with legal document preparation, closing software, and office technology
Attention to Detail: Meticulous review of documents and transaction requirements to ensure accuracy
Organization: Ability to manage complex transactions with multiple deadlines and deliverables
Communication: Clear written and verbal communication with clients, attorneys, and third parties
Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues and work collaboratively toward resolution
Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage workload in a busy environment
Professionalism: Reliable, confidential, and ethical handling of client information and transactions
Collaboration: Strong team player who works well with attorneys and other staff members
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Butler & College offers competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health insurance, 401(k) matching, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position is primarily office-based and may involve occasional travel to closing locations. Regular business hours Monday through Friday; occasional evening or weekend work may be required during high-volume closing periods. Ability to work in a professional office environment and manage interruptions during busy transaction periods.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Butler & College, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references Diane Kerley, Director of Operations at diane@bandclawfirm.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.