2025 Ones To Watch - Industry Leaders: Nicole De Bare, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

“Nicole possesses the unique ability to recommend, coordinate and implement a co-ownership structure in the most complex situations, with the most sophisticated parties. Her credibility speaks volumes with adversaries, clients and regulators, alike. She is truly a phenom.” — Jay Neveloff, Chair, Real Estate, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP. 

Recent goal and impact: 

I’ve been schooled in the New York condominium world. For years I’ve poured over AG regulations, and I’ve been in the trenches with major NYC condo developments. But I’ve always been curious about other aspects of a deal — financing, leases, JV negotiations, and guarantees — and thought if I could counsel on all areas of a transaction, I’d be a better attorney and could distinguish myself from peers. At KL, I’ve been fortunate to work with colleagues who give me those opportunities. The impact on my firm: happy clients, happy attorneys, happy life. 

Turning problems into opportunities: 

In the past year we’ve had several lending clients foreclose on distressed assets. These lenders aren’t developers and have little to no appetite to play that role. We have worked with them to strategize various condo structures to sell off parts of the building for different user types, leading to quicker exits and an ability to monetize aspects of the property. Our full-service firm is invaluable to clients and counsel alike, as we are able to work together under one roof to come up with the best solutions, showcasing how our specialists can address all of the unique needs of our clients. 

Giving Back: 

Last month, for the first time, I moderated a panel at the GreenPearl Real Estate Women’s Forum. Being on a stage and in a room with some of the most accomplished women in U.S. real estate — legends — is intimidating. I just wanted to be “good at it” — well spoken, interesting, and dynamic. It was a personal success, at a career level, and surprisingly, a tremendous amount of fun! As I walked back to my office that afternoon I thought: “I want more of that.” 

Best advice for new leaders:

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take”-  Wayne Gretzky (not Michael Jordan).

Who was/is your role model and/or leadership mentor?

My father taught me perseverance, to speak up and earn my way — a lesson for anyone in this industry.