ERIN TAIT is a partner in the Commercial Real Estate Group at Koffman Kalef LLP. Erin’s practice focuses on commercial real estate transactions and development matters. Erin represents clients in all aspects of real estate transactions including acquisitions and sales of office, retail, industrial, hotel and development properties, leasing transactions on behalf of both landlords and tenants; the creation and implementation of real estate ownership structures, and real estate development matters including, subdivision and servicing requirements, site assembly, and air space parcel subdivisions. Erin also advises developers on compliance matters under the Real Estate Development Marketing Act and the Strata Property Act and prepares Disclosure Statements, and purchase and sale agreements for residential and mixed use developments.
How and why did you get involved with CLEBC?
I was first introduced to volunteering with CLEBC by assisting with updating the Commercial Leasing—Annotated Precedents as an associate lawyer. I realized how valuable the work that CLEBC does is to everyday practice so I have been a willing participant ever since.
What are you are currently working on (or have most recently worked on) with CLEBC?
I am currently preparing to present at Real Estate Fundamentals for Lawyers course on the topic of Due Diligence which will be held on March 3 & 4, 2016.
What has been your most memorable CLEBC experience?
Sitting on the editorial board for the BC Real Estate Practice Manual. In reviewing all of the work of the contributing authors it makes me humbled to be in a profession with so many talented individuals.
What’s the most valuable piece of advice you have received?
What’s for you won’t go by you. Life will have periods of disappointment but sometimes right around the corner is another amazing opportunity that may not have arisen but for something not going right as planned.
What advice would you give newcomers who are interested in working in the legal profession?
Be well rounded. Much of what we do involves people skills and that involves being able to communicate well with others. Have a life outside the law. Volunteer, travel, have social, charitable and recreational interests—these things will go a long way to make you a better well rounded person and I think most clients find that valuable.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
The close friendships I have developed with other lawyers in the city and within my own firm, and, being a real estate lawyer involved in development, seeing areas of Vancouver transform as new communities emerge.
Other than law, what are you passionate about?
My family (being my other full time job with two young daughters at home), travelling, and yoga when I find some time to get on the mat!
What are some of your favourite legal resources? (blogs, websites, etc.)
I find I mostly turn to the CLEBC materials, particularly the BC Strata Property Practice Manual and the BC Real Estate Practice Manual.
I also find the publications on the Urban Development Institute’s website useful for industry specific information and policy papers.
Anything you’d like to shamelessly promote? (favourite charity, social cause, etc.)
I am a big supporter of Vancouver CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women). CREW supports professional women to become leaders in commercial real estate. I am a past board member and current member. I encourage those in the real estate industry to get involved. I’ve developed some wonderful connections and friendships through it.