How To Pick The Best Real Estate Deal Structure with Thomas J. Handler, Esq.

Every successful real estate transaction begins with a critical question: what is the best way to structure the deal? In this episode of Fried On Business, Jim Fried sits down with attorney Thomas J. Handler, Esq. to explore the legal, financial, and strategic considerations that drive effective real estate deal structuring.

Thomas explains that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The ideal structure depends on the goals of the parties involved, the nature of the asset, the capital sources being used, and the risks each participant is willing to assume. From joint ventures and limited liability companies to preferred equity and complex capital stacks, every structure creates different incentives and outcomes.

The conversation focuses on how investors, developers, and business owners can think through ownership, governance, control, and liability before committing to a transaction. Thomas discusses common mistakes made during negotiations, including failing to clearly define responsibilities, profit distributions, dispute-resolution mechanisms, and exit strategies.

Jim and Thomas also explore the importance of alignment. A deal structure should not only work financially—it should support the long-term relationship among the parties involved. When expectations are clearly established at the outset, conflicts become less likely and opportunities become easier to pursue.

Listeners will gain practical insight into how experienced professionals evaluate risk, protect their interests, and create flexibility within a transaction. Thomas shares how legal preparation can help avoid costly disputes while preserving the value of a deal.

Whether you're an investor, developer, broker, entrepreneur, or simply interested in how sophisticated transactions come together, this episode offers valuable guidance on one of the most important aspects of real estate success.

The right property matters. The right financing matters. But as Thomas Handler explains, the right structure may matter most of all.

This episode of Fried on Business is brought to you by our presenting sponsor, Warren Henry Auto Group.

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Jim Fried has been a real estate business person since 1980 and has had his own radio show since 2009.

Mr. Fried specializes in capitalizing commercial real estate transactions, unearthing urban land opportunities and is also a private lender.

He has been active in the real estate industry for many years as a financial intermediary, broker and investor. He has experience with many property types including, but not limited to: apartments, condominiums, retail centers, office buildings, industrial parks and health care – with a special focus on memory care.

Jim has closed over $3BB in real estate transactions during his career in markets across the eastern US.

Jim uses his communication skills to inform and entertain on his weekly podcast show – Fried on Business. Of course, the show discusses real estate, but he also tackles issues such as branding, sports business, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, public private partnerships as well as health and wellness.

He is also a mentor to many up and coming people in the real estate industry through his membership on the Board of The University of Florida’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies.

Mr. Fried is a winner of the Miami-Dade Public School Alumni Achievement Award.

Contact Jim via email at jim@friedonbusiness.com