Regions Bank has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Sabal Capital Partners LLC, a financial services firm focused on lending in the small-balance commercial real estate market for clients nationwide.

“With the addition of Sabal Capital Partners, Regions will become even better positioned to further build on our client base and deliver an expanded range of agency and non-agency options for real estate lending,” said Joel Stephens, head of Capital Markets for Regions Bank. “Sabal’s industry-leading technology platform and its leadership in the small-balance commercial real estate arena make the company a great match for Regions. Our current affordable and large-balance Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac products, combined with Sabal’s small-balance agency capabilities, will allow Regions to offer real estate solutions across the full spectrum of agency offerings. We look forward to working together to provide superior service to more real estate clients across the country.”

“For years, our work has been defined by a constant focus on innovation, and Sabal Capital Partners joining the forward-thinking team at Regions Bank is a natural fit as Sabal offers tailored lending solutions and reaches more clients together with Regions,” said Pat Jackson, chief executive officer of Sabal Capital Partners. “Regions Bank has a demonstrated commitment to delivering competitive options for clients in the small- and middle-market commercial real estate space while maintaining a prudent approach to risk management. By joining Regions, Sabal can make an even greater impact through combining technology-powered services with years of experience and strategic decision making to deliver unparalleled services for new and existing clients.”

Beekman Advisors represented Regions in connection with the Sabal Capital Partners transaction, and Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP served as Regions’ legal counsel. Wells Fargo Securities LLC served as financial advisor to Sabal Capital Partners, and Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP served as Sabal’s legal counsel.