Introduction

Serena represents clients including some of the leading companies in the Pacific Northwest.

Serena S. Carlsen has guided major commercial real estate transactions in Seattle, the Puget Sound region, and Alaska for more than three decades. She advises clients on land acquisitions, facility purchases, ground leases, office and retail leases, financing, and facilities construction. 

An active member of Seattle’s commercial real estate community, Serena represents a range of clients in the industry. These include universities, hospitals, office building owners, container terminal operators, and construction material and food and beverage companies. Her clients include the University of Washington, SSA Marine, Nucor, Weyerhaeuser, and the Corporation of the Catholic Archbishop of Seattle. 

Education & credentials

  • Seattle University School of Law, J.D., 1984
  • Scripps College, B.A., 1982

Professional recognition

  • Ranked by Chambers USA as “America’s Leading Lawyer" for Real Estate, 2017-2026

  • Listed in Best Lawyers in America: Real Estate Law, 2013-2026

  • Listed in Washington Super Lawyers, 2004-2006

  • *"AV Peer Review Rated – Preeminent in Ethical Standards and Legal Ability" by Martindale-Hubbell
    (AV®, BV® and CV® are registered certification marks of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies.)

Impact

  • Seattle Downtown Association, Board Member
  • Commercial Real Estate Women, Member
  • Washington State Bar Association, Chair, 2000; Legislative Director, 1997-1999; Member