2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Steven Altmann, Hinckley Allen

“Steven Altmann exemplifies what it means to be a rising star. His command of complex commercial real estate transactions across acquisitions, leasing, development, and finance, paired with his pragmatic, client-focused approach, sets him apart. His leadership as an ICSC Next Gen Committee Member further reflects his commitment to shaping the future of the industry. We are proud to see his talent and dedication earn this well-deserved recognition.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role? I was drawn to commercial real estate law because the work is tangible. Every deal is tied to a building, a neighborhood, a community, and there is real satisfaction in driving past a project I helped bring to life. The practice has a natural rhythm – negotiation, diligence, closing – but no two deals are the same, keeping it intellectually engaging. I began my career in New York, but intentionally relocated to New England, where the market blends historic redevelopment, life sciences growth, housing demand, and evolving sustainability requirements – making it a dynamic place to practice.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry? The growing reach of ESG regulations and rapid AI adoption stand out to me. Stringent energy-efficiency mandates, like Boston’s BERDO, create compliance challenges and opportunities to reposition assets. Non-compliance carries real financial consequences, reshaping how we negotiate purchase agreements, loan covenants, and environmental risk in leases. Meanwhile, AI is streamlining drafting, title review, and due diligence, but can introduce interpretation errors without careful oversight. It’s important to treat AI as a tool that enhances professional judgment, not one that replaces it.