Her Firm: Sonja Selami is creating an empire of real estate law—and neighborly advice.
In the sparkling, sun-drenched Law Offices of Sonja B. Selami (selamilaw.com) in Wellesley Center are a long way from Tirana, Albania, where the striking brunette grew up in a close-knit family, highlighted by her grandfather. Foni Qirko was a tax attorney whose home was peppered with thick hardcover law books, which 5-year-old Sonja spent hours poring through, page by page. Revisiting those memories, Selami smiles. “Law was so respectable in the community. I wanted to be part of it.” So Selami studied, earned top honors and was the first in her family to move to the United States to pursue law.
“Once I put my mind to something, I get it done. I am very determined.”
You can say that again. As the CEO of her own law firm in what is considered a male-dominated industry, Selami presides over 10 attorneys in multiple offices in Massachusetts. Specializing in mortgage lending services and real estate conveyance, as well as a full range of real estate law, the firm, verified as a secure settlement agent, oversaw $1.5 billion funded real estate transactions in 2017.
Now, Selami is expanding the marketing branch into the community with panel discussions, real estate networking receptions and philanthropic dinners (St. Jude’s is a favorite beneficiary) are a new mainstay in the staff ’s schedule. “We want to change the way business has been done so far, from legal support to which neighborhoods have the best schools,” Selami says.
Her grandfather would be proud.
Written By Lisa Pierpont
Portrait by Gabriella Riggieri
Featured in Boston Common Magazine
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