BOMA in Real Estate

In real estate, BOMA stands for the Building Owners and Managers Association International, a leading trade association representing commercial property owners, managers, facility operators, and developers. BOMA is best known for creating and maintaining industry-recognized measurement standards that define how rentable square footage is calculated in office, industrial, retail, and mixed-use properties .

BOMA’s Role in Real Estate

• Establishes BOMA Standards, the globally recognized guidelines for measuring building areas and calculating rentable square footage .

• Provides education, research, and certifications that support professional growth for real estate managers and owners .

• Advocates for commercial real estate by influencing public policy and advancing sustainable, efficient building practices .

• Offers networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities through its international and local chapters .

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What Are BOMA Standards?

• BOMA Standards ensure consistency and transparency in space measurement, defining usable area, rentable area, and how to allocate shared or common spaces fairly.

• Standards apply to multiple property types, including:

  • Office buildings

  • Industrial and warehouse properties

  • Retail centers

  • Mixed-use and medical buildings .

• Used by landlords, tenants, appraisers, brokers, and investors to ensure fair lease negotiations, accurate valuations, and consistent market comparisons .

Why BOMA Standards Matter

• Rental Income: Accurate measurement can increase a property’s rentable square footage, boosting potential income.

• Property Valuation: Standardized measurement improves appraisal accuracy and market comparability.

• Lease Negotiations: Provides clear, fair methods to allocate expenses and reduce disputes between landlords and tenants.

• Industry Recognition: BOMA Standards are widely referenced by governments, professional organizations, and CRE firms worldwide .

Summary Table: BOMA in Real Estate

AspectDescriptionFull NameBuilding Owners and Managers AssociationFounded1907Core ContributionMeasurement and management standards for commercial real estateKey StandardsOffice, industrial, retail, medical, mixed-useMain ImpactConsistent area calculations, advocacy, education, and best practicesStakeholdersOwners, managers, tenants, brokers, appraisers, developersGlobal ReachU.S., Canada, and international chapters