In its 2025 Year in Review, the New England Real Estate Journal (NEREJ) highlights the accomplishments and significant progress achieved by its clients across New England. In this feature, John H. Sokul, Jr., partner in the Real Estate Group, reflects on the firm’s standout accomplishments in 2025—including intentional growth, investments in technology, and client results—and shares the emerging trends expected to shape opportunities in real estate in 2026.
What accomplishment or milestone stood out for you and your firm in 2025?
In 2025, we focused on intentional growth aligned with our clients’ needs. We made meaningful investments in technology, including AI tools that automate routine tasks more efficiently, allowing our lawyers to focus on higher-value work and creative problem-solving. These investments in our culture and innovation continue to drive client results and satisfaction, which remain our top priorities. Our growth reflects the success of our clients. We’re excited to build on that momentum in 2026.
As you look ahead to 2026, which emerging trends or shifts will shape opportunities for you, your firm, and your market sector?
New housing mandates and infrastructure gaps are driving New England developers and municipalities toward public-private partnerships. This is creating opportunities for developers to partner with cities and towns on projects that require capital support for infrastructure upgrades needed for new housing developments. Our integrated real estate, construction, and public finance teams regularly structure PPP solutions—such as tax increment financing, special assessment districts, and joint development agreements—positioning this as a core growth area for our clients and the firm in 2026.
Originally posted on December 26, 2025, in New England Real Estate Journal.