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Real Estate

Real estate law encompasses a broad spectrum of potential issues, including property development, purchase and sale of developed and undeveloped plots, official permits, property structuring, expropriation and land reallocation, registration, rent, ground leases, deficiencies, defects and damage to real estate, property management, issues related to joint housing ownership and cooperatives, easements and restrictive covenants, prescriptive rights and neighbour law.

Our lawyers have comprehensive experience in the field of real estate law. We provide our clients with a full range of services in development and modification projects, from the purchase of land, via planning and construction, to sale or rental of the completed project. We have experience and expertise relating to both business and residential properties.

We know the real estate sector and the various stakeholders in development and construction projects well. Several of our lawyers have previously worked in the public administration, and thus have detailed knowledge of administrative and political decision-making processes. As a result, we can help facilitate application processes and contact with the authorities.

Our specialist planning, building and ground lease team is recognised as one of Norway’s leading practice groups.

Our broad experience and background enables us to identify advisory needs quickly. We work with clients to plan efficient assignment performance, taking into account overarching strategic issues like progress, profitability, reputation, etc. Where questions arise with regard to other fields of law, we establish interdisciplinary teams. When a case has to be brought before the courts, we provide first-class advice thanks to our expertise in both real estate law and litigation.

We advise a number of property developers and major property owners (both private and public) with a particular focus on management and operation. In addition, we assist public authorities, including municipalities, in all areas of real estate law, although a large proportion of our advice relates to the interpretation of regulations and the exercise of authority.

Our aim is to provide clients with advice which is solution-oriented and helps them achieve their productivity aims. Contacting us at an early stage of a real estate project can help to ensure good process flow and increase the chances of reaching project goals.

"Hjort is a reliable law firm; they can see solutions and are on the client's side"

– Legal 500, 2025

Our areas of expertise

Housing

We provide comprehensive legal assistance for housing projects, covering both development phases and post-completion matters. Our lawyers have extensive experience in defect follow-up for complex housing projects, representing developers, contractors, and homeowners. Additionally, we specialize in the organization of housing, with a particular focus on owner-occupied condominiums. 

Real Estate Development

Our team offers end-to-end legal support for real estate development projects, from conceptualization to completion. We handle all phases of real estate development and transformation projects, addressing both legal and strategic issues. This includes planning, zoning, development, and the final stages of completion and sale. 

Commercial Property

With deep knowledge of the real estate industry, we understand the challenges faced by real estate professionals. We provide legal assistance in real estate transactions, property management, and leasing agreements. Our lawyers are well-versed in brokerage standards for buying, selling, and renting commercial properties, ensuring tailored adjustments based on your specific needs. 

Planning and Building Matters

We are recognized as one of Norway’s leading legal experts in planning and building law. Our lawyers have contributed to legislative committee work and authored Gyldendal’s commentary on the Planning and Building Act, a key reference in the field. With backgrounds in public sector planning and building case processing, our team has in-depth knowledge of administrative and political systems, ensuring effective handling of complex planning and building matters. 

Assessment and Expropriation

Our firm has a highly skilled team specializing in appraisal and expropriation law. We assist in securing or establishing property rights and other necessary rights for development projects, such as access to roads, water, and sewage systems. Leveraging our extensive experience, we aim to resolve disputes through negotiations, avoiding lengthy legal proceedings whenever possible. 

Plot Attachment and Ground Leases

We are recognized as Norway’s leading experts in ground leases. Our lawyers assist with the negotiation, extension, termination, and redemption of commercial, residential, and leisure leases. Representing primarily landowners and lessees, we have litigated numerous land lease cases in Norwegian courts, including ten cases before the Supreme Court and one before the European Court of Human Rights. 

"They are well recognised and possess a high level of expertise in this field"

– Chambers and Partners, 2025