About Us
COLBA was established in 1981 with the purpose of improving the professionalism within the office leasing business to create a better environment for office leasing brokers representing tenants or landlords.
For over 30 years, COLBA members have adhered to its By-Laws and Code of Ethics to foster cooperation among firms and individual brokers to better serve the public. The organization provides an open forum for the exchange of information and continued education relating to real estate activities among the members of COLBA.
Our Mission
Foster a professional and cooperative brokerage environment that benefits the real estate industry and brokerage leasing community.
Provide a forum for the exchange of information regarding the real estate market and business as a whole.
Provide supporting efforts in educational and charitable endeavors.
Provide a social network to unite brokers and salespersons.
Promote common business interest, integrity and continually look to improve the business conditions in our field.
Our Organization
COLBA is a non-for-profit association comprised of more than 150 Chicago area real estate brokers and salespersons who are the top executives in their industry.
Membership Qualifications
Members shall be duly licensed real estate brokers or salespersons primarily engaged in office brokerage activities (whether representing landlord interests or tenant interests) or engaged in the management of such activities being performed by others.
The Board of Directors may establish minimum criteria for membership.
COLBA Members shall subscribe to, be bound by and fulfill all standards, duties, remedies and other provisions contained in the Association’s Code of Ethics and its By-Laws.
Membership Dues
Active COLBA members may attend all COLBA luncheons and cocktail parties free of charge. Non-COLBA members may also attend COLBA events, subject to availability.
Election of Members
Members and Honoraries shall be nominated by the Membership Committee and elected to membership by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.
Voting Rights
Each member shall be entitled to one vote on each matter submitted to a vote of the Members. Honoraries shall not be entitled to vote on any matters.
COLBA is proud to support a variety of local charities and institutions, including the following:
