David Nahm is a commercial real estate lawyer who advises clients on complex commercial real estate transactions, development projects, and land use issues. He works closely with developers throughout the full lifecycle of a project – from acquisition and purchase agreements through subdivision, development, municipal approvals, construction, and eventual sale.
David represents clients in a range of real estate matters, including drafting and reviewing complex commercial leases, navigating zoning and land use approvals, and handling matters such as variances, municipal ordinance amendments, and property tax appeals. He also works with contractors, lenders, and property owners on issues that arise during development and operation.
With a background in litigation, David brings a practical understanding of the risks that can arise in real estate transactions and development projects. He uses that perspective to help clients anticipate challenges, limit liability, and make informed business decisions.
Prior to joining Morningstar Law Group, David spent more than a decade practicing commercial real estate law in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. He has also taught pre-law courses at James Madison University and Eastern Mennonite University.
Outside of his practice, David enjoys spending time with his family, reading long novels, and listening to the music of the Triangle.
- Best Lawyers: Real Estate Law (2025-2027), Land Use and Zoning Law (2025-2027)
- Martindale Hubbell Distinguished Rated Attorney
- Super Lawyer: Rising Star (2015-2017)
- Represents real estate developers in the acquisition and subdivision of property for development of single family, townhouse, apartment, and condominium communities, including working with municipalities to obtain the necessary rezoning and site plan approval.
- Represents general contractors and subcontractors in negotiating and drafting contracts for both private and public projects, and in resolving contract disputes, including representing clients in State and Federal Courts.
- Represents lenders in connection with defaulted loans on real estate development projects, including successfully representing clients in State and Federal Courts and resolving numerous, complex mechanic’s lien issues.
- Represents commercial landlords in negotiating and drafting complex leases for commercial properties and advising clients in relation to tenant default and disputes related thereto.
- Represents property owners and developers before local governments and municipal bodies in relation to zoning issues, including zoning violations and applications for variances and special use permits.
- Represented oil company in the purchase of chain of gas stations, including the acquisition of a complex assortment of real properties owned or leased by the seller.
- North Carolina State Bar (2021)
- Massachusetts State Bar (2010)
- Virginia State Bar (2007)
- S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia (2015)
- S. District Court, Western District of Virginia (2008)
- Bankruptcy Court of the Eastern District of Virginia (2013)
- Bankruptcy Court of the Western District of Virginia (2008)
- Wake County Bar Association: Continuing Legal Education Committee (2023)
- North Carolina Bar Association: Professionalism Committee (2023)
- Harrisonburg-Rockingham Bar Association: Secretary (2009-2010) Chair, Bar Professionalism Committee (2011-2021)
- Board of Zoning Appeals, Harrisonburg, Virginia: Board Member (2013-2014)
- Blue Ridge Legal Services: Volunteer (2007-2021) Pro Bono Award Recipient (2009, 2018)
- The Collins Center: Board of Directors (2014-2021), Chair, Governance Committee (2018-2021)
- Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance: Organization Committee (2008-2009)
- James Madison University: Adjunct Faculty (2012-2014)
- Eastern Mennonite University: Adjunct Faculty, Pre-Law Advisor (2011-2012)