Department profile
Appleby

Real Estate

Global Guide 2026 : Cayman Islands

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Appleby

Rankings

About

Provided by Appleby

Appleby is a Tier 1 firm and remains the powerhouse in the Cayman real estate sector, leading in the luxury resort, commercial, residential, infrastructure and financing sub-sectors of the market – no other firm can claim the same level of experience across the full range of transactional real estate. For example, Appleby represented the five major retail banks on over US$200m of new real estate finance over the last year (approx. 35% increase year on year).

We have a uniquely experienced and growing team of lawyers and support staff practising exclusively in this field (based on number and experience of team members and their day-to-day exposure to complex and high value transactions). Managing Partner and Head of Property Norman Klein and Partner Adam Johnson are two of the most respected real estate practitioners in Cayman. 

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Real Estate - Cayman Islands

Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Appleby has a leading real estate practice in the Cayman Islands, advising clients on a variety of residential, hospitality and commercial developments. The team has extensive experience concerning luxury resorts and the real estate aspects of major infrastructure projects. It often advises major banks on real estate finance matters, as well as representing high net worth individuals in the acquisition and disposal of Cayman properties. Other clients include strata corporations.

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Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Appleby has continued to assist the Lacovia strata corporation with its redevelopment of the Lacovia site on Seven Mile Beach, including with regard to the preparation of sales agreements for individual condominiums as well as advising on the commercial agreement with its development partner, Bronte.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • They have several lawyers who are first rate in the field.

    Real Estate respondentGlobal

  • They are leaders in the local market; they are well connected and involved in significant transactions.

    Real Estate respondentGlobal

  • Appleby often handles the most complex real estate transactions on the island.

    Real Estate respondentGlobal

  • The Appleby team has a deep understanding of land and strata law, offers commercial guidance and really looks out for the client.

    Real Estate respondentGlobal

  • Appleby stands out for its attentive, timely advice and expertise in the market. They are particularly adept at complex transactions and structures.

    Real Estate respondentGlobal

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Adam Johnson
    Adam Johnson

    Adam Johnson

    Adam Johnson is a leading real estate lawyer in the Cayman Islands and has a very strong reputation in the market. He frequently assists with major development projects, as well as real estate finance matters. He has experience relating to a wide range of asset types including residential, hospitality and office properties.

    • Adam is truly an excellent lawyer and a credit to Appleby. He has a fantastic eye for detail, is commercially savvy and pleasant to deal with.

      Real Estate respondentGlobal

    • Adam is a consummate professional who is incredibly knowledgeable and super-responsive.

      Real Estate respondentGlobal

    • Adam is a fantastic lawyer who provides comfort that you have the right answer from a legal and commercial perspective.

      Real Estate respondentGlobal

    • He is one of the top lawyers in Cayman real estate.

      Real Estate respondentGlobal
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  • Tim Swallow
    Tim Swallow

    Tim Swallow

    Tim Swallow continues to develop his reputation for Cayman Islands real estate work. He acts on a variety of residential and commercial development mandates, and regularly counsels clients on portfolio management.

    • Tim is an excellent lawyer and great to deal with.

      Real Estate respondentGlobal

    • Tim is very reliable and experienced.

      Real Estate respondentGlobal
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Ranked Individuals at Appleby (2)

Cayman Islands

Members

Provided by Appleby

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