Saul B F Real Estate Investment Trust POS AM Prospectus update (post-effective amendment)

                                                                   Exhibit 23(a)



                    REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our reports
(and to all references to our Firm) included in or made a part of this
registration statement.



                                                             Arthur Andersen LLP

Vienna, Virginia
January 18, 2002