Last updated: September 27, 2026
What is an OM in real estate?
In commercial property marketing, OM usually means offering memorandum : a document that introduces a property, summarizes the opportunity, and organizes the information a prospective buyer needs to begin a review. It commonly includes property details, photographs, location information, leases and financial summaries.
What a commercial real estate OM does
A listing OM gives readers a consistent starting point. It explains what is offered, why the property may suit a buyer's objectives, and which facts need further investigation. An office building, shopping center and apartment property need different supporting information, but each benefits from a clear description, dated figures and identified sources.
The document is marketing material. It does not replace inspections, verification of leases and expenses, independent underwriting, or the transaction documents. Distinguish historical results from forecasts, and identify assumptions rather than presenting projected returns as guaranteed outcomes.
What to include
Offering summary: property identity, location, transaction scope and broker contact.Property overview: uses, building and land areas with their measurement basis, condition, amenities and relevant plans.Tenancy: occupancy, rent roll, lease terms and material expirations, subject to appropriate confidentiality controls.Financial information: dated income and expenses, assumptions, and a clear distinction between actual and projected figures.Market context: maps, comparable information and sources that help explain the property.Next steps: how to request information, arrange a viewing or contact the listing team.
Use the printable OM contents checklist to organize the material, and review CREOP's real marketing examples to see different presentations.
A listing OM and a private placement memorandum
The term offering memorandum is also used for documents associated with securities offerings. A property listing and an offering of interests in an investment entity are different transactions. A CRE marketing template does not determine whether a securities offering is compliant or exempt from registration.
The SEC explains that securities offerings must be registered or qualify for an exemption. The applicable pathway determines solicitation, purchaser and other requirements; circulating a document to professional contacts does not, by itself, establish an exemption. For a capital raise, have qualified advisers determine the applicable requirements and prepare or review the disclosure documents. See the SEC's overview of offering pathways .
Make the document useful to a buyer
Use a readable hierarchy and consistent terminology. Put the key property facts near the front, then organize details so readers can find the source behind a summary. Label photographs and plans clearly. An attractive page is most useful when the numbers, dates and supporting records agree.
A confidentiality agreement may control access to supporting documents when appropriate, but it is not the only possible call to action. Tell the reader how to contact the broker and what information or process comes next.
From property information to a branded OM
CREOP helps organize listing information into branded offering memorandums and other marketing materials. Explore CREOP's offering memorandum software , compare OM templates , or contact the team to discuss your workflow.