Cook County Land Bank Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.