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Shareholder

Todd B. Urness

I like to see a deal coalesce around an idea, connect the right people and get it done.

My Approach

When working with my clients, what I really try to do is help them find opportunities that they might not see otherwise, or advise on an overall strategy for their company or for a particular transaction. Sometimes, that means discrete questions about a particular tax credit transaction we’re working on, other times, it can be discussing the financing markets in general and where the industry is going. In general, I act as an outside member of their team as they work around the nation creating affordable or market rate housing through Low Income Housing Tax Credits tax exempt or conventional financing. When I formed the Tax Credit group, ages ago, it was because I saw an opportunity that could create real change for our market and community, and a new and potentially lucrative area for our client.

In addition to representing clients on the legal side, I have been the person on the other side of the desk – I’ve signed guarantees, developed property, and currently own an interest in a significant number of multifamily housing units as well as other business interests. Because I have experience as both a lawyer and a principal I understand the challenges a client goes through, what it means to lie awake at night wondering about the risk, and what it feels like to close on a deal. Using that knowledge, I try to steer my clients through the process and focus their attention and interest in the most meaningful aspects of the process to make it as easy and successful as possible.

Outside of work, I am maniacal about football, like weight-lifting and I will read anything on Bill Gates’ reading list while spending time with my family at the cabin.

Practice Areas

Honors & Awards

Best Lawyers in America©

Tax Law, 2013-2025
Real Estate Law, 2018-2025

Minnesota Super Lawyers®

2004-2024

Recommended in Real Estate

Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers For Business, 2016-2023

Outstanding Director

Twin Cities Business and the National Association of Corporate Directors, 2018

Leaders in their Field

Real Estate
Chambers USA

AV Preeminent

LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell, Peer review ratings

Minnesota Icon

Minnesota Lawyer/Finance & Commerce, 2024

Associations & Memberships

Minnesota State Bar Association

Hennepin County Bar Association

Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants