contracts and leases can now be signed electronically, and paper production has decreased significantly compared to 20 years ago! When it comes to technological developments in real estate law, I think that we are still in its embryonic stages. Of course, all lawyers are familiar with precedent banks on various platforms, but I have not yet seen its workings in the AI sector. I am sure that soon it will be available for simple, “off-the-shelf” transactions. I do believe that complex and high-value deals are still the territory of great minds meeting personally and with great care. This cannot compete with AI or automation (at least for now). Looking ahead, what do you foresee as the biggest opportunities and challenges for real estate professionals in London over the next few years? In the real estate world, the rule always remains the same—location, location, location... and price! Good properties bought at the right price will perform in any economic climate. I am also seeing more and more families having professional services denied to them because of the political situation/labeling. In particular, clients with Russian heritage who have been in the UK for decades and hold British passports face discrimination (or selective solidarity) from professional service providers. This is partly due to the nature of the legislation—it is complex, changes frequently, and is not synchronised with the EU directive (which specifically protects individuals who are residents in the EU). They are often denied services because professionals are not clear on the reach and effect of the current rules. The sanctions regime is effective and works well for those on the sanctions list; however, unwittingly, it penalises a huge segment of the population in the UK who do not “de facto” fall under this regime. At Svetlova LLP, we help individuals who can benefit from the correct interpretation of the law, and we address these issues where intervention is needed. We would also like to see a better balance in the landlord and tenant realm, where at the moment, tenants are extremely well protected, and landlords end up facing lengthy and expensive eviction processes where tenants misuse the legal process. This needs rebalancing, and we are working on lobbying for changes in the law. WWW.LAWYER-MONTHLY.COM 59 Aligning interests and having mutual trust is as important as knowing who you are dealing with. About Tatiana Tatiana founded the firm in 2009 and is the managing partner. She provides advice on all aspects of residential and commercial real estate, acting for family offices, private companies, and entrepreneurs. Tatiana is highly regarded by her clients for her extensive experience in investment and joint ventures, as well as her ability to facilitate introductions and create deals. Tatiana frequently offers commentary and expert opinions for BBC, ITV, Al Jazeera, and other publications. Contact Tatiana Svetlova Founder & Managing Partner Svetlova LLP Email: tsvetlova@svetlovallp.com Tel: +44 (0)203 375 904 0 www.svetlovallp.com
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