USCIS may now deny certain deficient filings without first issuing an RFE or NOID. Here is what changed on August 5, 2026, and how applicants should prepare.

New York-based private real estate lender Urban Standard Capital has expanded its commercial real estate lending capacity with Western Alliance Bank to a combined $200 million across three funds. According to Commercial Observer, the two firms began working together in 2020. The lending relationship started at approximately $40 million, later increased to $125 million, and has now reached $200 million. Urban Standard plans to use the expanded capacity primarily for transition

For eligible H-1B professionals, EB-5 may provide a separate path to permanent residence that does not depend on a particular employer or position.

NYC real estate financing conditions are improving, while the range of active buyers is expanding, according to CBRE’s New York City 2026 Midyear Market Outlook. CBRE reports that New York’s active buyer pool now includes high-net-worth investors, private equity firms, real estate investment trusts and institutional capital, representing the broadest market participation seen in several years. Private capital and local operators remain active, but institutional participation

LMXD and BedRock Real Estate Partners have secured $250 million in Astoria construction financing for a major mixed-income development at 35-10 Steinway Street in Queens. According to Commercial Observer, the loan was provided by New York Life Investment Management’s real estate platform and arranged by JLL. The financing is intended to support both the acquisition and construction of the development. The development team acquired the site, which includes 35-18 Steinway Stree

The State Department has proposed changes to J-1 program termination, certain extensions, SEVIS corrections, and reinstatement. Here is who may be affected and what participants can do now.

The Trump Administration is reportedly considering a proposal that would impose a $100,000 fee on international students seeking to participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program after graduating from a U.S. university. If implemented, the proposal could significantly increase the cost of obtaining post-graduation work authorization. The proposal remains under review at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and no final decision has been announced. This come

JLL Capital Markets has arranged a combined $617 million capitalization for two Grubb Properties-managed real estate investment trusts and Link Apartments 8 Carlisle, a large multifamily development in Manhattan’s Financial District. The transaction was completed through a coordinated three-phase process rather than a single project loan. It combined the formation and capitalization of a larger REIT platform with senior and mezzanine construction financing for Link Apartments

Once an investor subscribes to an EB-5 offering, the need for clear communication does not end. EB-5 investors are generally not involved in the project’s day-to-day management. They rely on the regional center and project team to provide timely, understandable information about capital deployment, project progress, job creation, and material developments. Before investing, families should understand what information they can expect to receive, how updates are typically deliv