Real Estate Controller

Property Controller – New York City

Location: New York, NY (On-site / Hybrid) Department: Finance & Accounting Reports To: CFO / VP of Finance

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Property Controller to oversee the financial operations of our clients New York City real estate portfolio. This role is responsible for the full accounting cycle across a portfolio of commercial and/or residential properties, ensuring compliance with GAAP, local NYC regulations, and internal financial policies.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Close

• Manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process for all properties in the portfolio
• Prepare and review financial statements, variance analyses, and management reports
• Consolidate property-level financials and present results to senior leadership

Accounting Operations

• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, rent collections, and general ledger activity
• Review and approve journal entries, bank reconciliations, and balance sheet schedules
• Manage CAM (Common Area Maintenance) reconciliations and tenant billings

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead the annual budgeting process for the property portfolio in collaboration with asset management and operations teams
• Prepare rolling forecasts and cash flow projections
• Analyze budget-to-actual variances and provide actionable commentary

Compliance & Controls

• Ensure compliance with NYC-specific regulations including NYC Local Law requirements, Real Property Tax reporting, and applicable rent stabilization rules
• Maintain strong internal controls and support external audits and tax filings
• Coordinate with external auditors, tax advisors, and legal counsel as needed

Team Leadership

• Supervise and mentor a team of property accountants and analysts
• Drive process improvements and systems efficiencies across the accounting function

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• 10 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 5 years in real estate or property accounting
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and real estate accounting principles (CAM, straight-line rent, lease accounting under ASC 842)
• Proficiency with property management/accounting software (Yardi, MRI, or similar)
• Familiarity with NYC real estate regulations, property taxes, and compliance requirements
• Advanced Excel skills

Preferred

• CPA license
• Experience with both commercial and residential portfolios
• Prior experience in a NYC-based real estate owner, operator, or REIT environment

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.