Curious about the latest trends shaping the real estate industry? In this insightful Q&A, Kim Pagotto shares how evolving market needs—from sustainability to cybersecurity—are transforming commercial real estate, offering clients a fresh perspective on navigating today’s challenges.

1. Introduce yourself.

My name is Kim Pagotto. I am originally from the Midwest, but I’ve been a commercial real estate lawyer in Washington, DC, for the past 25 years.

2. What inspired you to specialize in commercial real estate?

Our built environment affects every aspect of our lives—from where we live, shop, eat, work and play, to how we get from one place to another. It’s intuitive in a way that not all areas of law are, and it intersects with every other area of law, from corporate law and business, to financing, hospitality, government contracts, sustainability, public policy, security and more.

3. How has your practice evolved over the years? 

Because commercial real estate is driven by markets and necessity, you need to be flexible about where the needs are. When I started, the practice was more local, and it focused more on office and retail spaces. As the world became more connected and technology evolved, issues like sustainability, physical security and cybersecurity have moved to the forefront. I now have an international practice that spans a broader range of product types.

4. You recently have done work with data centers. Can you explain what that entails and what drew you to this area? 

It comes down to the fact that our planet has a finite amount of “dirt” and constantly evolving needs for how we use it. Everyone—from the global corporations I represent to teenagers—needs secure, safe and reliable connectivity. The practice grew organically from this demand.

5. How do you keep up with trends and changes in the real estate sector?

Once you have the ‘real estate lens,’ you see it everywhere. You just need to stay informed about events and listen to what people are talking about. A global pandemic means new ways of thinking about in-person versus remote services. Longer commutes mean infrastructure challenges. More travel leads to shifts in hospitality. Rising housing costs prompt residential conversions. An aging population brings about the need for supportive living communities, and so on. Real estate is an indicator, and there are thoughtful, responsible ways to address these shifts. 

6. What advice would you give to young lawyers aspiring to enter the field of commercial real estate?

Do it! It is an incredibly satisfying area of law to practice. You will encounter every industry, every type of product, and work with smart, interesting people. The consistency in some aspects of the field allows you to build a core skill set, while the constant evolution ensures it never gets boring.

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