Phaedra J. Howard, Hellmuth & Johnson

Partner, Hellmuth & Johnson, PLLC

What are the biggest challenges you currently see in construction or real estate law?

I work primarily with community associations. One of the biggest challenges they are facing right now is the insurance crisis, which has hit this industry really hard. Many associations are struggling to even get insurance, and many are having to go into the secondary market, which results in premiums that are three to five times higher than what they are used to. This has impacted their finances, property values, delinquencies, ability to get financing, etc. The other challenge we are seeing is coming from the Legislature attempting to create really bad law that will hurt associations and homeowners because they really don’t understand how things work or the potential impact of their proposals.

What advice would you give a business to avoid legal complications in construction or real estate?

I would advise them to be proactive and make sure that they get their documents reviewed and good contracts in place before a problem arises. It is always better to get ahead of things rather than realizing you are in a mess and then trying to fix it after a dispute arises.

What is one thing you would change about Minnesota if you could?

I like winter but could live without the below zero temperatures. I could also live without mosquitos.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

When I was a kid and was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I told people that I wanted to be a linebacker for the Vikings. I think things turned out for the best, though.