CBA was founded in 1977 with the initial objective of providing a multiple-listing service exclusively for commercial properties within the state. Deering says in the beginning most that joined were from small- to medium-sized firms. "Now", she says, "at least 90% to 95% of all the commercial brokers in the State of Washington are members." At last count, that membership had grown to roughly 2,300.

To this day, Deering says the key source of income is its commercial MLS on the Internet. Advertising (with few exceptions) all their commercial listings with CBA's service is a requirement for member brokers. While the general public can view general information on the listings at www.commercialmls.com, members can access to information intended for "brokers' eyes only." The executive director says CBA is in the midst of an upgrade that will add more bells and whistles to the site.

The Commercial Real Estate Insight's program is the highlight of the organization's year. The program draws not only is member brokers—it is attended by the top echelon across the industry--from development and management to financial.