Jeff Otto is a seasoned attorney with a strong foundation in real estate development and public finance. 

With his many years in the business of managing the development of real estate with several national real estate concerns, as well as acting as in-house and outside counsel for the same, Jeff brings to his practice first-hand industry understanding and the judgment that comes with his broad base of experience. Jeff’s training in architecture, engineering, finance and law enables him to apply a unique combination of skills in finding creative solutions to land-use permitting, leasing, construction, and public and private financing requirements that is needed to bring complex development projects to completion.

A recognized leader in the public finance space, Jeff has played a pivotal role in structuring innovative ownership and financing structures designed to fully deploy available financial incentives and optimize tax advantages.

Jeff’s work spans the full lifecycle of real estate development, including land acquisition, land-use permitting, municipal incentives, leasing, construction contracting, financing, and disposition. Jeff’s client portfolio includes a diverse range of stakeholders such as land, retail, office, nursing home, residential, hotel and industrial developers. His multidisciplinary approach and deep industry knowledge make him a trusted advisor for clients seeking to navigate all aspect of the real estate development process.

  • St. Louis University School of Law, J.D.
  • University of Notre Dame, Professional Degree in Architecture, Minor: Engineering, cum laude

Admissions

Bar Admissions

  • Missouri

Community

  • Past Board Member, The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum
  • Past Adjunct Professor to Washington University School of Law, teaching real estate leasing
  • Past Board Member, YMCA of Greater St. Louis
  • Past Board Member, Board of Education, Mary Queen of Peace Parish School

I am a dedicated swimmer, enjoy playing racquetball and pickleball with my family, am regularly engaged in woodworking and home improvement projects (now mostly for the benefit of my children), have a passion for sailing (including completing 8 Chicago to Mackinac races) and am an avid reader of non-fiction, mostly history, business and science.