Item 1.
BUSINESS
General
United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc. is a self administered real estate investment trust, or REIT, that owns, acquires, renovates, develops, and manages apartment communities nationwide. At December 31, 2006, our apartment portfolio included 242 communities located in 33 markets, with a total of 70,339 completed apartment homes. In addition, we had five apartment communities under development.
We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code. To continue to qualify as a REIT, we must continue to meet certain tests which, among other things, generally require that our assets consist primarily of real estate assets, our income be derived primarily from real estate assets, and that we distribute at least 90% of our REIT taxable income (other than our net capital gain) to our stockholders. As a qualified REIT, we generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income taxes at the corporate level on our net income to the extent we distribute such net income to our stockholders. In 2006, we declared total distributions of $1.25 per common share to our stockholders, which represents our 30th year of consecutive dividend increases to our stockholders.
We were formed in 1972 as a Virginia corporation. In June 2003, we changed our state of incorporation from Virginia to Maryland. Our corporate headquarters is located at 400 East Cary Street, Richmond, Virginia. Our principal executive offices are located at 1745 Shea Center Drive, Suite 200, Highlands Ranch, Colorado. As of February 20, 2007, we had 1,809 full-time employees and 127 part-time employees.
Our subsidiaries include two operating partnerships, Heritage Communities L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, and United Dominion Realty L.P., a Delaware limited partnership. Unless the context otherwise requires, all references in this Report to “we,” “us,” “our,” “the company,” or “UDR” refer collectively to United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
Accomplishments
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We increased our common stock dividend for the 30th consecutive year.
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We completed over $1.2 billion of capital transactions in 2006.
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We authorized a new 10 million share repurchase program that replaced our previous 11 million share repurchase program.
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We acquired 2,763 apartment homes in eight communities for approximately $327.5 million and two parcels of land for $19.9 million.
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We completed the disposition of 24 apartment communities with 7,653 apartment homes for an aggregate sales price of approximately $444.9 million. In addition, we sold 384 condominiums within four communities for a total consideration of $72.1 million.
Business Objectives and Operating Strategies
Our principal business objective is to maximize the economic returns of our apartment communities to provide our stockholders with the greatest possible total return and value. To achieve this objective, we intend to continue to pursue the following goals and strategies:
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own and operate apartments across a national platform, thus enhancing stability and predictability of returns to our stockholders,
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manage real estate cycles by taking an opportunistic approach to buying, selling, and building apartment communities,
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empower site associates to manage our communities efficiently and effectively,
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measure and reward associates based on specific performance targets, and
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manage our capital structure to ensure predictability of earnings and dividends.
Acquisitions
During 2006, using the proceeds from our disposition program, as well as debt offerings, we acquired eight communities with 2,763 apartment homes at a total cost of approximately $327.5 million, including the assumption of secured debt. In addition, we purchased two parcels of land for $19.9 million.
When evaluating potential acquisitions, we consider:
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research in the following areas: population growth, cost of alternative housing, overall potential for economic growth and the tax and regulatory environment of the community in which the property is located,
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geographic location, including proximity to our existing communities which can deliver significant economies of scale,
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construction quality, condition and design of the community,
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current and projected cash flow of the property and the ability to increase cash flow,
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potential for capital appreciation of the property,
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ability to increase the value and profitability of the property through upgrades and repositioning,
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terms of resident leases, including the potential for rent increases,
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occupancy and demand by residents for properties of a similar type in the vicinity,
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prospects for liquidity through sale, financing, or refinancing of the property, and
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competition from existing multifamily communities and the potential for the construction of new multifamily properties in the area.
The following table summarizes our apartment acquisitions and our year-end ownership position for the past five years (dollars in thousands):
Dispositions
We regularly monitor and adjust our assets to increase the quality and performance of our portfolio. During 2006, we sold over 7,600 of our slower growing, non-core apartment homes while exiting some markets in an effort to increase the quality and performance of our portfolio. Proceeds from the disposition program were used primarily to reduce debt and fund acquisitions.
Factors we consider in deciding whether to dispose of a property include:
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current market price for an asset compared to projected economics for that asset,
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potential increases in new construction in the market area,
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areas where the economy is not expected to grow substantially, and
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markets where we do not intend to establish long-term concentration.
At December 31, 2006, we had two communities with a total of 475 apartment homes, one community with a total of 320 condominiums, one commercial unit, and one parcel of land classified as real estate held for disposition. We are in the market for replacement properties that will correspond with our expected sales activity to prevent dilution to earnings.
Upgrading and Development Activities
During 2006, we continued to reposition properties in targeted markets where we concluded there was an opportunity to add value and achieve greater than inflationary increases in rents over the long term. In 2006, we spent $21.6 million on five development projects that are expected to be completed in 2007 and 2008. Revenue enhancing capital expenditures, including kitchen and bath renovations, and other extensive interior upgrades totaled $144.1 million or $2,002 per home for the year ended December 31, 2006. In addition, we spent $37.0 million on major renovation projects that included major structural changes and/or architectural revisions to existing buildings and the wiring and/or re-plumbing of an entire building.
The following wholly owned projects were under development as of December 31, 2006:
In addition, we owned five parcels of land held for future development aggregating $35.4 million at December 31, 2006.
The following consolidated joint venture projects were under development as of December 31, 2006:
Financing Activities
As part of our plan to strengthen our capital structure, we utilized proceeds from dispositions, debt and equity offerings and refinancings to extend maturities, pay down existing debt, and acquire apartment communities. The following is a summary of our major financing activities in 2006:
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Repaid $70.3 million of secured debt and $138.8 million of unsecured debt.
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Authorized a new 10 million share repurchase program in February 2006. This program replaces our previous 11 million share repurchase program under which we repurchased approximately 10 million shares.
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Sold $125 million aggregate principal amount of 6.05% senior unsecured notes due June 2013 in June 2006 under our medium-term note program. The net proceeds of approximately $124 million were used for debt repayment.
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Sold $250 million aggregate principal amount of 3.625% convertible senior unsecured notes due 2011 in October 2006. The net proceeds of approximately $245 million were used for the repayment of indebtedness under our revolving credit facility, the cost of a capped call transaction, and for other general corporate purposes. The capped call instrument effectively increased the conversion premium to 40%.
Markets and Competitive Conditions
At December 31, 2006, we owned 242 apartment communities in 33 markets in 16 states. When comparing fourth quarter 2006 to the same period in the prior year, 90% of the portfolio generated positive revenue growth and 75% of the portfolio generated positive net operating income growth. We have a geographically diverse portfolio and we believe that this diversification increases investment opportunity and decreases the risk associated with cyclical local real estate markets and economies, thereby increasing the stability and predictability of our earnings.
We believe changing demographics will have a significant impact on the apartment industry over the next two decades. In particular, we believe the annual number of young people entering the workforce and creating households will be significantly higher over the next 10 to 15 years as compared to the number who entered the workforce over the past 10 years. The number of single people and single parent households continues to grow significantly. The immigrant population is also expected to grow at an accelerated pace. Each of these population segments has a high propensity to rent.
In many of our markets, competition for new residents is intense. Some competing communities offer features that our communities do not have. Competing communities can use concessions or lower rents to obtain temporary competitive advantages. Also, some competing communities are larger or newer than our communities. The competitive position of each community is different depending upon many factors including sub-market supply and demand. In addition, other real estate investors compete with us to acquire existing properties and to develop new properties. These competitors include insurance companies, pension and investment funds, developer partnerships, investment companies and other apartment REITs. This competition could increase prices for properties of the type that we would likely pursue, and our competitors may have greater resources, or lower capital costs, than we do.
We believe that, in general, we are well-positioned to compete effectively for residents and investments. We believe our competitive advantages include:
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a fully integrated organization with property management, development, acquisition, marketing and financing expertise,
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scalable operating and support systems,
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purchasing power,
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geographic diversification with a presence in 33 markets across the country, and
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significant presence in many of our major markets that allows us to be a local operating expert.
Moving forward, we will continue to emphasize aggressive lease management, improved expense control, increased resident retention efforts and the realignment of employee incentive plans tied to our bottom line performance. We believe this plan of operation, coupled with the portfolio’s strengths in targeting renters across a geographically diverse platform, should position us for continued operational improvement.
Communities
At December 31, 2006, our apartment portfolio included 242 communities having a total of 70,339 completed apartment homes. In addition, we had five apartment communities under development. The overall quality of our portfolio has significantly improved since 2001 with the disposition of non-core apartment homes and our upgrade and rehabilitation program. The upgrading of the portfolio provides several key benefits related to portfolio profitability. It enables us to raise rents more significantly and to attract residents with higher levels of disposable income who are more likely to accept the transfer of expenses, such as water and sewer costs, from the landlord to the resident. In addition, it potentially reduces recurring capital expenditures per apartment home, and therefore should result in increased cash flow.
Same Community Comparison
For 2006, same community property operating income increased 8.6% or $30.4 million compared to 2005. The increase in property operating income was primarily attributable to a 6.0% or $34.2 million increase in revenues from rental and other income that was offset by a 1.8% or $3.9 million increase in operating expenses. The increase in revenues from rental and other income was primarily driven by a 4.9% or $28.4 million increase in rental rates, a 17.6% or $2.2 million decrease in concession expense, and a 12.5% or $5.0 million increase in utility reimbursement income and fee income. Physical occupancy increased 0.1% to 94.7%.
The increase in property operating expenses was primarily driven by a 15.8% or $1.6 million increase in insurance costs, a 4.4% or $1.5 million increase in utility costs, a 2.8% or $1.5 million increase in personnel costs, a 1.1% or $0.4 million increase in repair and maintenance expenses, and a 0.5% or $0.3 million increase in real estate taxes. These increases in operating expenses were partially offset by a 6.0% or $1.2 million decrease in administrative and marketing expenses.
Customers
Our upgrade and rehabilitation programs enable us to raise rents and attract residents with higher levels of disposable income who are more likely to accept the transfer of expenses, such as water and sewer costs, from the landlord to the resident. We believe this segment provides the highest profit potential in terms of rent growth, stability of occupancy and investment opportunities.
We believe there will be a significant increase in the number of younger renters over the next 10 to 15 years, and that the immigrant population will remain a significant and growing part of the renter base. Accordingly, we plan to target some of our incremental investments to communities that will be attractive to younger households or to the immigrant populations. These communities will often be located close to where these residents work, shop and play.
Tax Matters
We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Code. To continue to qualify as a REIT, we must continue to meet certain tests that, among other things, generally require that our assets consist primarily of real estate assets, our income be derived primarily from real estate assets, and that we distribute at least 90% of our REIT taxable income (other than net capital gains) to our stockholders. Provided we maintain our qualification as a REIT, we generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income taxes at the corporate level on
our net income to the extent such net income is distributed to our stockholders. Even if we continue to qualify as a REIT, we will continue to be subject to certain federal, state and local taxes on our income and property.
We may utilize taxable REIT subsidiaries to engage in activities that REITs may be prohibited from performing, including the provision of management and other services to third parties and the conduct of certain nonqualifying real estate transactions. Taxable REIT subsidiaries generally are taxable as regular corporations and therefore are subject to federal, state and local income taxes.
Inflation
Substantially all of our leases are for a term of one year or less, which may enable us to realize increased rents upon renewal of existing leases or the beginning of new leases. Such short-term leases generally minimize the risk to us of the adverse effects of inflation, although as a general rule these leases permit residents to leave at the end of the lease term without penalty. Short-term leases and relatively consistent demand allow rents to provide an attractive hedge against inflation.
Environmental Matters
Various environmental laws govern certain aspects of the ongoing operation of our communities. Such environmental laws include those regulating the existence of asbestos-containing materials in buildings, management of surfaces with lead-based paint (and notices to residents about the lead-based paint), use of active underground petroleum storage tanks, and waste-management activities. The failure to comply with such requirements could subject us to a government enforcement action and/or claims for damages by a private party.
To date, compliance with federal, state and local environmental protection regulations has not had a material effect on our capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position. We have a property management plan for hazardous materials. As part of the plan, Phase I environmental site investigations and reports have been completed for each property we acquire. In addition, all proposed acquisitions are inspected prior to acquisition. The inspections are conducted by qualified environmental consultants, and we review the issued report prior to the purchase or development of any property. Nevertheless, it is possible that our environmental assessments will not reveal all environmental liabilities, or that some material environmental liabilities exist of which we are unaware. In some cases, we have abandoned otherwise economically attractive acquisitions because the costs of removal or control of hazardous materials have been prohibitive or we have been unwilling to accept the potential risks involved. We do not believe we will be required to engage in any large-scale abatement at any of our properties. We believe that through professional environmental inspections and testing for asbestos, lead paint and other hazardous materials, coupled with a relatively conservative posture toward accepting known environmental risk, we can minimize our exposure to potential liability associated with environmental hazards.
Federal legislation requires owners and landlords of residential housing constructed prior to 1978 to disclose to potential residents or purchasers of the communities any known lead paint hazards and imposes treble damages for failure to provide such notification. In addition, lead based paint in any of the communities may result in lead poisoning in children residing in that community if chips or particles of such lead based paint are ingested, and we may be held liable under state laws for any such injuries caused by ingestion of lead based paint by children living at the communities.
We are unaware of any environmental hazards at any of our properties that individually or in the aggregate may have a material adverse impact on our operations or financial position. We have not been notified by any governmental authority, and we are not otherwise aware, of any material non-compliance, liability, or claim relating to environmental liabilities in connection with any of our properties. We do not believe that the cost of continued compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations will have a material adverse effect on us or our financial condition or results of operations. Future environmental laws, regulations, or ordinances, however, may require additional remediation of existing conditions that are not currently actionable. Also, if more stringent requirements are imposed on us in the future, the costs of compliance could have a material adverse effect on us and our financial condition.
Insurance
We carry comprehensive general liability coverage on our communities, with limits of liability customary within the industry to insure against liability claims and related defense costs. We are also insured, in all material respects, against the risk of direct physical damage in amounts necessary to reimburse us on a replacement cost basis for costs incurred to repair or rebuild each property, including loss of rental income during the reconstruction period.
Executive Officers of the Company
The following table sets forth information about our executive officers as of February 20, 2007. The executive officers listed below serve in their respective capacities at the discretion of our board of directors.
Set forth below is certain biographical information about our executive officers.
Mr. Toomey spearheads the vision and strategic direction of the company and oversees its executive officers. He joined us in February 2001 as President, Chief Executive Officer and Director. Prior to joining us, Mr. Toomey was with Apartment Investment and Management Company (AIMCO) from January 1996 until February 2001, where he served as Chief Operating Officer for two years and Chief Financial Officer for four years. During his tenure at AIMCO, Mr. Toomey was instrumental in the growth of AIMCO from 34,000 apartment homes to 360,000 apartment homes. He has also served, from 1990 to 1995, as a Senior Vice President and Treasurer at Lincoln Property Company, a national real estate development, property management and real estate consulting company. Mr. Toomey began his career at Arthur Andersen & Co. serving real estate and banking clients as an Audit Manager. He currently serves as a member of the boards of the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts and the National Multihousing Council, and he serves as a consultant to the Homeland Security Task Force of the Real Estate Roundtable and Chairman of the Pandemic Flu Preparedness Committee of the Real Estate Roundtable.
Mr. Wallis oversees the areas of acquisitions, dispositions, condominium conversions, asset quality and development. He joined us in April 2001 as Senior Executive Vice President responsible for acquisitions, dispositions, legal and certain administrative matters. Since that time, his focus has shifted to acquisitions, dispositions, asset quality, condominium conversions and development. Prior to joining us, Mr. Wallis was the
President of Golden Living Communities, a company he established in 1995 to develop senior housing. During his tenure at Golden Living, Mr. Wallis was involved in the development of eight communities containing over 1,200 assisted and independent living apartments. From 1980 to 1995, Mr. Wallis was Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration at Lincoln Property Company where he handled interim and permanent financing for office, retail, multi-family and mixed-use developments. His responsibilities also included the negotiation of acquisitions, dispositions, and management contracts, and oversaw the direction of the national accounting and computer services divisions. Prior to joining Lincoln, Mr. Wallis served as Vice President of Finance for Folsom Investments, Inc., a large diversified real estate developer. Mr. Wallis began his career as an auditor at Alford, Meroney and Company, a Dallas CPA firm.
Mr. Ernst oversees the areas of corporate accounting, financial planning and analysis, investor relations, treasury operations, tax and property tax administration, risk management, SEC reporting and legal administration. He joined us in July 2006 as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining us, Mr. Ernst was with Prentiss Properties Trust (Prentiss), where he most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He joined Prentiss in 1997 in the role of Vice President and Treasurer, and was promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 1999, and then to Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 2001. During his tenure at Prentiss, Mr. Ernst was involved in the development of corporate strategy, was active in corporate mergers and acquisitions activity and structured in excess of $3.5 billion in capital transactions. He was a member of Prentiss’s investment committee and was responsible for corporate and property accounting, capital markets, investor relations and financial planning and analysis. Prior to that, Mr. Ernst worked for Nations Bank, now Bank of America, where he was a Senior Vice President in their real estate finance group.
Ms. Carlin oversees all operations, including property operations, human resources, technology, internet strategy and business development. She joined the company in March 2001 as Senior Vice President responsible for operational efficiencies and revenue enhancement. She was promoted to Senior Vice President, Director of Property Operations in 2004 and to Executive Vice President, Director of Property Operations in 2005. Ms. Carlin was Senior Vice President of Operations for opsXchange, Inc., a real estate procurement technology developer, from 1999 until March 2001. Prior to that, Ms. Carlin was with Apartment Investment and Management Company, from 1996 through 1999, where she served as Senior Vice President of Ancillary Services, President of Buyers Access and was involved in Dispositions and Secured Financing. Ms. Carlin began her accounting career as a member of Arthur Andersen’s Real Estate Services Group.
Mr. Giannotti oversees redevelopment projects in the mid-Atlantic region. He joined us in September 1985 as Director of Development and Construction. He was elected Assistant Vice President in 1988, Vice President in 1989, and Senior Vice President in 1996. In 1998, he was assigned the additional responsibilities of Director of Development for the Eastern Region. In 2003 Mr. Giannotti was promoted to Executive Vice President - Asset Quality to manage the company’s Asset Quality program and to be responsible for the direction of recurring capital expenditures for asset preservation, initial capital expenditures relating to acquisitions and redevelopment projects. In 2006 Mr. Giannotti’s responsibilities shifted to focus on acquisition efforts and development projects in the mid-Atlantic region as well as redevelopment projects.
Mr. Akin oversees our acquisition and disposition efforts. He joined us in 1996 in connection with the merger with SouthWest Property Trust, where he had been a Financial Analyst since 1994. He was promoted to Due Diligence Analyst in April 1998 and to Asset Manager for the Western Region in 1999. Mr. Akin was promoted to Vice President, Senior Business Analyst in September 2000 and his focus shifted to acquisitions for the Western Region. In May 2004 he was promoted to Vice President - Acquisitions, and in August 2006 he was promoted to Senior Vice President - Acquisitions and Dispositions. Prior to joining SouthWest Property Trust, Mr. Akin was with Lexford Properties from 1989 to 1994, where he began as Staff Accountant and was promoted to Assistant Controller.
Mr. Boeckel oversees the conversion of existing apartment properties, the acquisition of properties for conversion, and the development of condominium communities. He joined us in July 2001 as Vice President of Dispositions and Acquisitions and was promoted in February 2002 to Senior Vice President - Dispositions and Acquisitions. His title was changed to Senior Vice President - Condominiums in December of 2004,
when his focus shifted from acquisitions and dispositions to condo conversions and the development of multi-family for-sale housing. Prior to joining us, Mr. Boeckel was with Apartment Investment and Management Company (AIMCO), from 1998 to 2001. Mr. Boeckel served as Regional Vice President, a position with operating responsibilities for a portfolio of 12,000 apartment homes, and as Senior Vice President of Asset Management. Before joining AIMCO, Mr. Boeckel had over 20 years of real estate experience with various firms, including a national multi-family development company, a pension fund advisor, a regional investment banking firm and several national apartment syndication firms.
Mr. Culwell oversees all aspects of in-house development, joint venture development and pre-sale opportunities. He joined us in June 2006 as Senior Vice President - Development. Prior to joining us, Mr. Culwell served as Regional Vice President of Development for Gables Residential, where he established a $300 million pipeline of new development and redevelopment opportunities. Before joining Gables Residential, Mr. Culwell had over 30 years of real estate experience, including working for Elsinore Group, LLC, Lexford Residential Trust, Cornerstone Housing Corporation and Trammell Crow Residential Company, where his development and construction responsibilities included site selection and acquisition, construction oversight, asset management, as well as obtaining financing for acquisitions and rehabilitations. Mr. Culwell began his career, in Houston, as a broker with Vallone and Associates Real Estate Brokerage.
Ms. O’Brien oversees our property operations. She joined us in 1996 as a Community Director and in 1997 she was promoted to Assistant Vice President, District Manager for our Greensboro, North Carolina portfolio. In 2001, Ms. O’Brien joined a real estate company headquartered in Greensboro as a Regional Manager, and then returned to UDR the same year as a Pricing Manager. In June 2002, she was promoted to the position of District Manager, and in October 2003 she was promoted to Vice President-Operations, which encompassed all of North Carolina except Charlotte. In November 2004, she was promoted to Vice President-Operations, which expanded her responsibilities to the entire portfolio. In January 2007, she was promoted to Senior Vice President-Property Operations. Prior to joining us, Ms. O’Brien served as a Property Manager, a Leasing Director and a Regional Marketing Director for several national multi-family housing companies, where her focus was primarily on the development of marketing plans and troubleshooting for underperforming properties.
Mr. Gregory oversees all aspects of our Technology Management. He joined us in March 1997 as Vice President, Chief Information Officer, responsible for the planning and management of all Information Services related activities, including systems development, network operations, training, enterprise applications and end user support. In 1999, Mr. Gregory was promoted to Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer. In addition to oversight of Information Services, his responsibilities include the development of a strategic technology plan for the company and ensuring that the company’s technology supports the company’s strategic business goals as well as the day-to-day operational needs. Prior to joining us, Mr. Gregory was with Crestar Bank for over 20 years, where he began as a Training Manager, managing the technical training for the Information Systems professionals. He was promoted to Solution Center Manager, where he managed the introduction and assimilation of fourth generation languages, personal computers, personal productivity software and local area networks; to Internet Developer, where he researched new technologies and developed internet-based applications, and identified new technologies that would lower costs and improve services to both internal and external customers.
Mr. Messenger oversees all aspects of our accounting functions. He joined us in August 2002 as Vice President and Controller. In that role, Mr. Messenger was responsible for SEC reporting, Sarbanes-Oxley compliance and supervision of all accounting functions. In March 2006, Mr. Messenger was promoted to Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer. In January 2007, Mr. Messenger was promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer. Prior to joining us, Mr. Messenger was owner and President of TRC Management Company, a restaurant management company, in Chicago. He has worked as a Controller at HMS Resource, Inc. Mr. Messenger began his career with Ernst & Young LLP, as a manager in their Chicago real estate division.
Mr. Spangler oversees internal audit, utilities management, procurement and non-rental revenue programs. He joined us in August 1998 as Assistant Vice President, Operational Planning and Asset Management, and
was promoted to Vice President, Director of Operational Planning and Asset Management that same year. He was promoted to Senior Vice President - Business Development in February 2003. Prior to joining us, Mr. Spangler served for nine years as an Asset Manager for Summit Enterprises, Inc. of Virginia, a private investment management firm, where he oversaw a portfolio consisting of agricultural, commercial, mixed-use commercial, industrial and residential properties.
Mr. Walker oversees our Asset Quality, Kitchen & Bath and “Green Building” programs in addition to all non-residential owned and leased real estate. He joined us in May 2006 as Senior Vice President - Transactions. Prior to joining us, Mr. Walker served as a consultant to the multi-family industry. He served as President of Harwood Pacific, a Dallas-based developer of mixed-use high-rise office projects. He was also President of Harwood Management, a division of Harwood International, from 1994 to 2002, where he was responsible for operations of an $800 million portfolio of properties in Europe and the U.S.
Ms. Norwood oversees our legal department, coordinates outside legal services and is our Corporate Secretary. She joined us in August 2001 as Vice President - Legal Administration and Corporate Secretary. Prior to joining us, Ms. Norwood was employed by Centex Corporation in various legal capacities for 15 years, the most recent of which was as its Legal Administrator. Centex is a New York Stock Exchange listed company that operates in the home building, financial services, construction products, construction services and investment real estate business segments.
Mr. Simon oversees capital markets and treasury management. He joined us in October 2006 as Vice President and Treasurer. Prior to joining us, Mr. Simon was with Prentiss Properties Trust (Prentiss) where he most recently served as Senior Vice President and Treasurer. Mr. Simon’s tenure at Prentiss began in 1985 when he joined Cadillac Fairview US, a publicly-held precursor to Prentiss, in the role of tax analyst. In 1987 he was promoted to Corporate Controller, to Vice President Accounting in 1992, and to Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer in 1999. In May 2004 Mr. Simon took over the role of Senior Vice President and Treasurer. During his tenure at Prentiss, Mr. Simon was responsible for the design and implementation of new accounting systems; project leader for the implementation of Sarbanes Oxley; negotiation of construction financing, property level financing, corporate financings and interest rate hedge transactions. He was integrally involved in the merger of Prentiss with Brandywine Realty Trust, including the transfer, pay-off, or defeasance of the Prentiss debt portfolio. Mr. Simon began his career at Fox & Company, now Grant Thornton, as a tax accountant.
Available Information
We file electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K, pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. You may obtain a free copy of our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports on the day of filing with the SEC on our website at www.udrt.com, or by sending an e-mail message to ir@udrt.com.
NYSE Certification
On May 19, 2006, our Chief Executive Officer submitted to the New York Stock Exchange the annual certification required by Section 303A.12(a) of the NYSE Listed Company Manual regarding our compliance with NYSE corporate governance listing standards. In addition, the certifications of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer required under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are filed as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2, respectively, to this Report.
Item 1A.
Item 1A.
RISK FACTORS
There are many factors that affect our business and our results of operations, some of which are beyond our control. The following is a description of important factors that may cause our actual results of operations in future periods to differ materially from those currently expected or discussed in forward-looking statements set forth in this Report relating to our financial results, operations and business prospects. Except as required
by law, we undertake no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which it is made.
Unfavorable Changes in Apartment Market and Economic Conditions Could Adversely Affect Occupancy Levels and Rental Rates. Market and economic conditions in the metropolitan areas in which we operate may significantly affect our occupancy levels and rental rates and, therefore, our profitability. Factors that may adversely affect these conditions include the following:
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a reduction in jobs and other local economic downturns,
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declines in mortgage interest rates, making alternative housing more affordable,
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government or builder incentives which enable first time homebuyers to put little or no money down, making alternative housing decisions easier to make,
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oversupply of, or reduced demand for, apartment homes,
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declines in household formation, and
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rent control or stabilization laws, or other laws regulating rental housing, which could prevent us from raising rents to offset increases in operating costs.
The strength of the United States economy has become increasingly susceptible to global events and threats of terrorism. At the same time, productivity enhancements and the increased exportation of labor have resulted in limited job growth despite an improving economy. Continued weakness in job creation, or any worsening of current economic conditions, generally and in our principal market areas, could have a material adverse effect on our occupancy levels, our rental rates and our ability to strategically acquire and dispose of apartment communities. This may impair our ability to satisfy our financial obligations and pay distributions to our stockholders.
New Acquisitions, Developments and Condominium Projects May Not Achieve Anticipated Results. We intend to continue to selectively acquire apartment communities that meet our investment criteria and to develop apartment communities for rental operations, to convert properties into condominiums and to develop condominium projects. Our acquisition, development and condominium activities and their success are subject to the following risks:
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an acquired apartment community may fail to perform as we expected in analyzing our investment, or a significant exposure related to the acquired property may go undetected during our due diligence procedures,
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when we acquire an apartment community, we often invest additional amounts in it with the intention of increasing profitability. These additional investments may not produce the anticipated improvements in profitability,
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new developments may not achieve pro forma rents or occupancy levels, or problems with construction or local building codes may delay initial occupancy dates for all or a portion of a development community, and
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an over supply of condominiums in a given market may cause a decrease in the prices at which we expect to sell condominium properties.
Possible Difficulty of Selling Apartment Communities Could Limit Operational and Financial Flexibility. We periodically dispose of apartment communities that no longer meet our strategic objectives. Market conditions could change and purchasers may not be willing to pay prices acceptable to us. A weak market may limit our ability to change our portfolio promptly in response to changing economic conditions. Furthermore, a significant portion of the proceeds from our overall property sales may be held by intermediaries in order for some sales to qualify as like-kind exchanges under Section 1031 of the Code, so that any related capital gain can be deferred for federal income tax purposes. As a result, we may not have immediate access to all of the cash flow generated from our property sales. In addition, federal tax laws limit our ability to profit on the sale
of communities that we have owned for fewer than four years, and this limitation may prevent us from selling communities when market conditions are favorable.
Increased Competition Could Limit Our Ability to Lease Apartment Homes or Increase or Maintain Rents. Our apartment communities compete with numerous housing alternatives in attracting residents, including other apartment communities and single-family rental homes, as well as owner occupied single- and multi-family homes. Competitive housing in a particular area could adversely affect our ability to lease apartment homes and increase or maintain rents.
Insufficient Cash Flow Could Affect Our Debt Financing and Create Refinancing Risk. We are subject to the risks normally associated with debt financing, including the risk that our operating income and cash flow will be insufficient to make required payments of principal and interest, or could restrict our borrowing capacity under our line of credit due to debt covenant restraints. Sufficient cash flow may not be available to make all required principal payments and still satisfy our distribution requirements to maintain our status as a REIT for federal income tax purposes, and the full limits of our line of credit may not be available to us if our operating performance falls outside the constraints of our debt covenants. Additionally, we are likely to need to refinance substantially all of our outstanding debt as it matures. We may not be able to refinance existing debt, or the terms of any refinancing may not be as favorable as the terms of the existing debt, which could create pressures to sell assets or to issue additional equity when we would otherwise not choose to do so.
Failure to Generate Sufficient Revenue Could Impair Debt Service Payments and Distributions to Stockholders. If our apartment communities do not generate sufficient net rental income to meet rental expenses, our ability to make required payments of interest and principal on our debt securities and to pay distributions to our stockholders will be adversely affected. The following factors, among others, may affect the net rental income generated by our apartment communities:
•
the national and local economies,
•
local real estate market conditions, such as an oversupply of apartment homes,
•
tenants’ perceptions of the safety, convenience, and attractiveness of our communities and the neighborhoods where they are located,
•
our ability to provide adequate management, maintenance and insurance, and
•
rental expenses, including real estate taxes and utilities.
Expenses associated with our investment in a community, such as debt service, real estate taxes, insurance and maintenance costs, are generally not reduced when circumstances cause a reduction in rental income from that community. If a community is mortgaged to secure payment of debt and we are unable to make the mortgage payments, we could sustain a loss as a result of foreclosure on the community or the exercise of other remedies by the mortgage holder.
Debt Level May Be Increased. Our current debt policy does not contain any limitations on the level of debt that we may incur, although our ability to incur debt is limited by covenants in our bank and other credit agreements. We manage our debt to be in compliance with these debt covenants, but subject to compliance with these covenants, we may increase the amount of our debt at any time without a concurrent improvement in our ability to service the additional debt.
Financing May Not Be Available and Could Be Dilutive. Our ability to execute our business strategy depends on our access to an appropriate blend of debt financing, including unsecured lines of credit and other forms of secured and unsecured debt, and equity financing, including common and preferred equity. Debt or equity financing may not be available in sufficient amounts, on favorable terms or at all. If we issue additional equity securities to finance developments and acquisitions instead of incurring debt, the interests of our existing stockholders could be diluted.
Development and Construction Risks Could Impact Our Profitability. We intend to continue to develop and construct apartment communities. Development activities may be conducted through wholly owned
affiliated companies or through joint ventures with unaffiliated parties. Our development and construction activities may be exposed to the following risks:
•
we may be unable to obtain, or face delays in obtaining, necessary zoning, land-use, building, occupancy and other required governmental permits and authorizations, which could result in increased development costs and could require us to abandon our activities entirely with respect to a project for which we are unable to obtain permits or authorizations,
•
if we are unable to find joint venture partners to help fund the development of a community or otherwise obtain acceptable financing for the developments, our development capacity may be limited,
•
we may abandon development opportunities that we have already begun to explore, and we may fail to recover expenses already incurred in connection with exploring such opportunities,
•
we may be unable to complete construction and lease-up of a community on schedule, or incur development or construction costs that exceed our original estimates, and we may be unable to charge rents that would compensate for any increase in such costs,
•
occupancy rates and rents at a newly developed community may fluctuate depending on a number of factors, including market and economic conditions, preventing us from meeting our profitability goals for that community, and
•
when we sell homes or properties that we developed or renovated to third parties, we may be subject to warranty or construction defect claims that are uninsured or exceed the limits of our insurance.
Construction costs have been increasing in our existing markets, and the costs of upgrading acquired communities have, in some cases, exceeded our original estimates. We may experience similar cost increases in the future. Our inability to charge rents that will be sufficient to offset the effects of any increases in these costs may impair our profitability.
Some Potential Losses Are Not Covered by Insurance. We maintain insurance policies covering our property and operating activities which are of the type and in amounts we believe are reasonable and appropriate to cover our business. There are, however, certain types of extraordinary losses for which we may not have insurance, including certain extraordinary losses resulting from environmental damage or successive natural disasters or other catastrophes. Accordingly, we may sustain uninsured losses due to insurance deductibles, self-insured retention, uninsured claims or casualties, or losses in excess of applicable coverage.
We may not be able to renew insurance coverage in an adequate amount or at reasonable prices. In addition, insurance companies may no longer offer coverage against certain types of losses, such as losses due to terrorist acts and mold, or, if offered, these types of insurance may be prohibitively expensive. If an uninsured loss or a loss in excess of insured limits occurs, we could lose all or a portion of the capital we have invested in a property, as well as the anticipated future revenue from the property. In such an event, we might nevertheless remain obligated for any mortgage debt or other financial obligations related to the property. Material losses in excess of insurance proceeds may occur in the future. If one or more of our significant properties were to experience a catastrophic loss, it could seriously disrupt our operations, delay revenue and result in large expenses to repair or rebuild the property. Such events could adversely affect our cash flow and ability to make distributions to stockholders.
Failure to Succeed in New Markets May Limit Our Growth. We may make acquisitions outside of our existing market areas if appropriate opportunities arise. We may be exposed to a variety of risks if we choose to enter new markets, and we may not be able to operate successfully in new markets. These risks include, among others:
•
inability to accurately evaluate local apartment market conditions and local economies,
•
inability to obtain land for development or to identify appropriate acquisition opportunities,
•
inability to hire and retain key personnel, and
•
lack of familiarity with local governmental and permitting procedures.
Changing Interest Rates Could Increase Interest Costs and Adversely Affect Our Cash Flow and the Market Price of Our Securities. We currently have, and expect to incur in the future, interest-bearing debt at rates that vary with market interest rates. As of December 31, 2006, we had approximately $492.5 million of variable rate indebtedness outstanding, which constitutes approximately 15% of our total outstanding indebtedness as of such date. An increase in interest rates would increase our interest expenses to the extent our variable rate debt is not hedged effectively, and it would increase the costs of refinancing existing indebtedness and of issuing new debt. Accordingly, higher interest rates could adversely affect cash flow and our ability to service our debt and to make distributions to security holders. In addition, an increase in market interest rates may lead our security holders to demand a higher annual yield, which could adversely affect the market price of our common and preferred stock and debt securities.
Risk of Inflation/Deflation. Substantial inflationary or deflationary pressures could have a negative effect on rental rates and property operating expenses.
Limited Investment Opportunities Could Adversely Affect Our Growth. We expect that other real estate investors will compete with us to acquire existing properties and to develop new properties. These competitors include insurance companies, pension and investment funds, developer partnerships, investment companies and other apartment REITs. This competition could increase prices for properties of the type that we would likely pursue, and our competitors may have greater resources than we do. As a result, we may not be able to make attractive investments on favorable terms, which could adversely affect our growth.
Failure to Integrate Acquired Communities and New Personnel Could Create Inefficiencies. To grow successfully, we must be able to apply our experience in managing our existing portfolio of apartment communities to a larger number of properties. In addition, we must be able to integrate new management and operations personnel as our organization grows in size and complexity. Failures in either area will result in inefficiencies that could adversely affect our expected return on our investments and our overall profitability.
Interest Rate Hedging Contracts May Be Ineffective and May Result in Material Charges. From time to time when we anticipate issuing debt securities, we may seek to limit our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates during the period prior to the pricing of the securities by entering into interest rate hedging contracts. We may do this to increase the predictability of our financing costs. Also, from time to time we may rely on interest rate hedging contracts to limit our exposure under variable rate debt to unfavorable changes in market interest rates. If the terms of new debt securities are not within the parameters of, or market interest rates fall below that which we incur under a particular interest rate hedging contract, the contract is ineffective. Furthermore, the settlement of interest rate hedging contracts has involved and may in the future involve material charges.
Potential Liability for Environmental Contamination Could Result in Substantial Costs. Under various federal, state and local environmental laws, as a current or former owner or operator of real estate, we could be required to investigate and remediate the effects of contamination of currently or formerly owned real estate by hazardous or toxic substances, often regardless of our knowledge of or responsibility for the contamination and solely by virtue of our current or former ownership or operation of the real estate. In addition, we could be held liable to a governmental authority or to third parties for property damage and for investigation and clean-up costs incurred in connection with the contamination. These costs could be substantial, and in many cases environmental laws create liens in favor of governmental authorities to secure their payment. The presence of such substances or a failure to properly remediate any resulting contamination could materially and adversely affect our ability to borrow against, sell or rent an affected property.
We Would Incur Adverse Tax Consequences if We Fail to Qualify as a REIT. We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Code. Our qualification as a REIT requires us to satisfy numerous requirements, some on an annual and quarterly basis, established under highly technical and complex Code provisions for which there are only limited judicial or administrative interpretations, and involves the determination of various factual matters and circumstances not entirely within our control. We intend that our current organization and method of operation enable us to continue to qualify as a REIT, but we may not so qualify or we may not be able to remain so qualified in the future. In addition, U.S. federal income tax laws governing REITs and other corporations and the administrative interpretations of those laws may be amended at any
time, potentially with retroactive effect. Future legislation, new regulations, administrative interpretations or court decisions could adversely affect our ability to qualify as a REIT or adversely affect our stockholders.
If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, and applicable relief provisions under the Code were not available, we would be subject to U.S. federal income tax (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) on our taxable income at regular corporate rates, and would not be allowed to deduct dividends paid to our stockholders in computing our taxable income. Also, unless the Internal Revenue Service, or “IRS,” granted us relief under certain statutory provisions, we would be disqualified from treatment as a REIT for the four taxable years following the year in which we first failed to qualify. The additional tax liability from the failure to qualify as a REIT would reduce or eliminate the amount of cash available for investment or distribution to our stockholders. This would likely have a significant adverse effect on the value of our securities and our ability to raise additional capital. In addition, we would no longer be required to make distributions to our stockholders. Even if we continue to qualify as a REIT, we will continue to be subject to certain federal, state and local taxes on our income and property.
We May Conduct a Portion of Our Business Through Taxable REIT Subsidiaries, Which are Subject to Certain Tax Risks. We have established taxable REIT subsidiaries in which we conduct a portion of our business. Despite our qualification as a REIT, our taxable REIT subsidiaries must pay income tax on their taxable income. In addition, we must comply with various tests to continue to qualify as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and our income from and investments in our taxable REIT subsidiaries generally do not constitute permissible income and investments for these tests. While we will attempt to ensure that our dealings with our taxable REIT subsidiaries will not adversely affect our REIT qualification, we cannot provide assurance that we will successfully achieve that result. Furthermore, we may be subject to a 100% penalty tax, we may jeopardize our ability to retain future gains on real property sales, or our taxable REIT subsidiaries may be denied deductions, to the extent our dealings with our taxable REIT subsidiaries are not deemed to be arm’s length in nature or are otherwise not respected.
Certain Property Transfers May Generate Prohibited Transaction Income, Resulting in a Penalty Tax on Gain Attributable to the Transaction. From time to time, we may transfer or otherwise dispose of some of our properties. Under the Code, any gain resulting from transfers of properties that we hold as inventory or primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business would be treated as income from a prohibited transaction subject to a 100% penalty tax. Since we acquire properties for investment purposes, we do not believe that our occasional transfers or disposals of property are prohibited transactions. However, whether property is held for investment purposes is a question of fact that depends on all the facts and circumstances surrounding the particular transaction. The IRS may contend that certain transfers or disposals of properties by us are prohibited transactions. If the IRS were to argue successfully that a transfer or disposition of property constituted a prohibited transaction, then we would be required to pay a 100% penalty tax on any gain allocable to us from the prohibited transaction and we may jeopardize our ability to retain future gains on real property sales. In addition, income from a prohibited transaction might adversely affect our ability to satisfy the income tests for qualification as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Changes in Market Conditions and Volatility of Stock Prices Could Adversely Affect the Market Price of Our Common Stock. The stock markets, including the New York Stock Exchange, on which we list our common shares, have experienced significant price and volume fluctuations. As a result, the market price of our common stock could be similarly volatile, and investors in our common stock may experience a decrease in the value of their shares, including decreases unrelated to our operating performance or prospects.
Property Ownership Through Joint Ventures May Limit Our Ability to Act Exclusively in Our Interest. We have in the past and expect in the future to develop and acquire properties in joint ventures with other persons or entities when we believe circumstances warrant the use of such structures. As a result, we could become engaged in a dispute with one or more of our joint venture partners that might affect our ability to operate a jointly-owned property. Moreover, joint venture partners may have business, economic or other objectives that are inconsistent with our objectives, including objectives that relate to the appropriate timing and terms of any sale or refinancing of a property. In some instances, joint venture partners may have competing interests in our markets that could create conflicts of interest.
Real Estate Tax and Other Laws. Generally we do not directly pass through costs resulting from compliance with or changes in real estate tax laws to residential property tenants. We also do not generally pass through increases in income, service or other taxes, to tenants under leases. These costs may adversely affect funds from operations and the ability to make distributions to stockholders. Similarly, compliance with or changes in (i) laws increasing the potential liability for environmental conditions existing on properties or the restrictions on discharges or other conditions or (ii) rent control or rent stabilization laws or other laws regulating housing, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, may result in significant unanticipated expenditures, which would adversely affect funds from operations and the ability to make distributions to stockholders.
Any Weaknesses Identified in Our Internal Control Over Financial Reporting Could Have an Adverse Effect on Our Stock Price. Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires us to evaluate and report on our internal report over financial reporting. If we identify one or more material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, which in turn could have an adverse effect on our stock price.
Maryland Law May Limit the Ability of a Third Party to Acquire Control of Us, Which May Not be in Our Stockholders’ Best Interests. Maryland business statutes may limit the ability of a third party to acquire control of us. As a Maryland corporation, we are subject to various Maryland laws which may have the effect of discouraging offers to acquire our company and of increasing the difficulty of consummating any such offers, even if our acquisition would be in our stockholders’ best interests. The Maryland General Corporation Law restricts mergers and other business combination transactions between us and any person who acquires beneficial ownership of shares of our stock representing 10% or more of the voting power without our board of directors’ prior approval. Any such business combination transaction could not be completed until five years after the person acquired such voting power, and generally only with the approval of stockholders representing 80% of all votes entitled to be cast and 662/3% of the votes entitled to be cast, excluding the interested stockholder, or upon payment of a fair price. Maryland law also provides generally that a person who acquires shares of our equity stock that represents 10% (and certain higher levels) of the voting power in electing directors will have no voting rights unless approved by a vote of two-thirds of the shares eligible to vote.
Limitations on Share Ownership and Limitations on the Ability of Our Stockholders to Effect a Change in Control of Our Company May Prevent Takeovers That are Beneficial to Our Stockholders. One of the requirements for maintenance of our qualification as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes is that no more than 50% in value of our outstanding capital stock may be owned by five or fewer individuals, including entities specified in the Code, during the last half of any taxable year. Our charter contains ownership and transfer restrictions relating to our stock primarily to assist us in complying with this and other REIT ownership requirements; however, the restrictions may have the effect of preventing a change of control, which does not threaten REIT status. These restrictions include a provision that generally limits ownership by any person of more than 9.9% of the value of our outstanding equity stock, unless our board of directors exempts the person from such ownership limitation, provided that any such exemption shall not allow the person to exceed 13% of the value of our outstanding equity stock. These provisions may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing someone from taking control of us, even though a change of control might involve a premium price for our stockholders or might otherwise be in our stockholders’ best interests.
Under the terms of our shareholder rights plan, our board of directors can, in effect, prevent a person or group from acquiring more than 15% of the outstanding shares of our common stock. Unless our board of directors approves the person’s purchase, after that person acquires more than 15% of our outstanding common stock, all other stockholders will have the right to purchase securities from us at a price that is less than their then fair market value. Purchases by other stockholders would substantially reduce the value and influence of the shares of our common stock owned by the acquiring person. Our board of directors, however, can prevent the shareholder rights plan from operating in this manner. This gives our board of directors significant discretion to approve or disapprove a person’s efforts to acquire a large interest in us. Additional information regarding our shareholder rights plan is set forth in Note 6 in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statement included elsewhere in this Report.
Item 1B.
Item 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
Item 2.
Item 2.
PROPERTIES
At December 31, 2006, our apartment portfolio included 242 communities located in 33 markets, with a total of 70,339 completed apartment homes. In addition, we had five apartment communities under development. We own approximately 53,000 square feet of office space in Richmond, Virginia, for our corporate offices and we lease approximately 11,000 square feet of office space in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, for our principal executive offices. The table below sets forth a summary of our real estate portfolio by geographic market at December 31, 2006.
SUMMARY OF REAL ESTATE PORTFOLIO BY GEOGRAPHIC MARKET AT DECEMBER 31, 2006
(a)
Total Income per Occupied Home represents total revenues per weighted average number of homes occupied.
(b)
Includes real estate held for disposition, real estate under development, and land, but excludes commercial property.
Item 3.
Item 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are subject to various legal proceedings and claims arising in the ordinary course of business. We cannot determine the ultimate liability with respect to such legal proceedings and claims at this time. We believe that such liability, to the extent not provided for through insurance or otherwise, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flow.
Item 4.
Item 4.
SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matters were submitted to a vote of our security holders during the fourth quarter of the year ended December 31, 2006.
PART II
Item 5.
Item 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Common Stock
Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “UDR.” The following tables set forth the quarterly high and low sale prices per common share reported on the NYSE for each quarter of the last two fiscal years. Distribution information for common stock reflects distributions declared per share for each calendar quarter and paid at the end of the following month.
On February 20, 2007, the closing sale price of our common stock was $33.95 per share on the NYSE and there were 5,871 holders of record of the 135,544,953 outstanding shares of our common stock.
We have determined that, for federal income tax purposes, approximately 38% of the distributions for each of the four quarters of 2006 represented ordinary income, 37% represented long-term capital gain, and 25% represented unrecaptured section 1250 gain.
We pay regular quarterly distributions to holders of shares of our common stock. Future distributions will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on our actual funds from operations, financial condition and capital requirements, the annual distribution requirements under the REIT provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, and other factors. The annual distribution payment for calendar year 2006 necessary for us to maintain our status as a REIT was approximately $0.43 per share of common stock. We declared total distributions of $1.25 per share of common stock for 2006.
Series E Preferred Stock
The Series E Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock has no stated par value and a liquidation preference of $16.61 per share. Subject to certain adjustments and conditions, each share of the Series E is convertible at any time and from time to time at the holder’s option into one share of our common stock. The holders of the Series E are entitled to vote on an as-converted basis as a single class in combination with the holders of common stock at any meeting of our stockholders for the election of directors or for any other purpose on which the holders of common stock are entitled to vote. The Series E has no stated maturity and is not subject to any sinking fund or any mandatory redemption.
Distributions declared on the Series E in 2006 were $1.33 per share or $0.3322 per quarter. The Series E is not listed on any exchange. At December 31, 2006, a total of 2,803,812 shares of the Series E were outstanding.
Series F Preferred Stock
We are authorized to issue up to 20,000,000 shares of our Series F Preferred Stock. Our Series F Preferred Stock may be purchased by holders of our operating partnership units, or OP Units, described below under “Operating Partnership Units,” at a purchase price of $0.0001 per share. OP Unitholders are entitled to subscribe for and purchase one share of our Series F Preferred Stock for each OP Unit held. At December 31, 2006, a total of 666,293 shares of the Series F Preferred Stock were outstanding at a value of $66.63. Holders of the Series F Preferred Stock are entitled to one vote for each share of the Series F Preferred Stock they hold, voting together with the holders of our common stock, on each matter submitted to a vote of securityholders at a meeting of our stockholders. The Series F Preferred Stock does not entitle its holders to any other rights, privileges or preferences.
Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan
We have a Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan under which holders of our common stock and our Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock may elect to automatically reinvest their distributions and make additional cash payments to acquire additional shares of our common stock. Stockholders who do not participate in the plan continue to receive dividends as declared. As of February 20, 2007, there were 3,372 participants in the plan.
Operating Partnership Units
From time to time we issue shares of our common stock in exchange for OP Units tendered to our operating partnerships, United Dominion Realty, L.P. and Heritage Communities L.P., for redemption in accordance with the provisions of their respective partnership agreements. At December 31, 2006, there were 9,692,058 OP Units (of which 1,650,322 are owned by the holders of the Series A OPPS) and 329,207 OP Units in United Dominion Realty, L.P. and Heritage Communities L.P., respectively, that were owned by limited partners. The holder of the OP Units has the right to require United Dominion Realty, L.P. to redeem all or a portion of the OP Units held by the holder in exchange for a cash payment based on the market value of our common stock at the time of redemption. However, United Dominion Realty, L.P.’s obligation to pay the cash amount is subject to the prior right of the company to acquire such OP Units in exchange for either the cash amount or shares of our common stock. Heritage Communities L.P. OP Units are convertible into common stock in lieu of cash, at our option, once the holder elects to convert, at an exchange ratio of 1.575 shares for each OP Unit. During 2006, we issued a total of 381,001 shares of common stock in exchange for OP Units.
Purchases of Equity Securities
In February 2006, our Board of Directors authorized a new 10 million share repurchase program. This program replaces our previous 11 million share repurchase program (of which 1,180,737 shares were available for repurchase) and authorizes the repurchase of our common stock in open market purchases, in block purchases, privately negotiated transactions, or otherwise. As reflected in the table below, no shares of common stock were repurchased under this program or otherwise during the quarter ended December 31, 2006.
The following table sets forth certain information regarding our common stock repurchases during the quarter ended December 31, 2006:
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
On October 12, 2006, we completed the sale of $250 million principal amount of our 3.625% convertible senior notes due 2011. These notes are convertible into shares of our common stock at an initial conversion rate of 26.6326 shares per $1,000 principal amount of notes, which equates to an initial conversion price of approximately $37.55 per share. Because the notes and the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the notes were sold to accredited investors in transactions not involving a public offering, the transactions are exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 in accordance with Section 4(2) of the Securities Act. In connection with the offering of the notes, we also entered into a capped call transaction with respect to our common stock with JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, London Branch, an affiliate of one of the initial purchasers of the notes. The capped call transaction covers, subject to anti-dilution adjustments similar to those contained in the notes, approximately 6,658,150 shares of our common stock. Information regarding the offering of our 3.625% convertible senior notes due 2011, the shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of the notes, and the capped call transaction is set forth in our Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 5, 2006 and filed with the SEC on October 12, 2006, and is incorporated herein by reference.
Comparison of Cumulative Total Returns
The following graph provides a comparison from December 31, 2001 through December 31, 2006 of the cumulative total stockholder return (assuming reinvestment of any dividends) among UDR, the NAREIT Equity REIT Index, Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index, the NAREIT Equity Apartment Index and the MSCI US REIT Index. The graph assumes that $100 was invested on December 31, 2001, in each of our common stock and the indices presented. Historical stock price performance is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.
Performance Graph
The foregoing graph and chart shall not be deemed incorporated by reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this Report into any filing under the Securities Act or under the Exchange Act, except to the extent we specifically incorporate this information by reference.
Item 6.
Item 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial and other information as of and for each of the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 2006. The table should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, and Item 7.
Item 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Forward-Looking Statements
This Report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements concerning property acquisitions and dispositions, development activity and capital expenditures, capital raising activities, rent growth, occupancy, and rental expense growth. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results of operations or plans expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among other things, unanticipated adverse business developments affecting us, or our properties, adverse changes in the real estate markets and general and local economies and business conditions. Although we believe that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore such statements included in this Report may not prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that the results or conditions described in such statements or our objectives and plans will be achieved.
Business Overview
We are a real estate investment trust, or REIT, that owns, acquires, renovates, develops, and manages apartment communities nationwide. We were formed in 1972 as a Virginia corporation. In June 2003, we changed our state of incorporation from Virginia to Maryland. Our subsidiaries include two operating partnerships, Heritage Communities L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, and United Dominion Realty, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership. Unless the context otherwise requires, all references in this Report to “we,” “us,” “our,” “the company,” or “UDR” refer collectively to United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
At December 31, 2006, our portfolio included 242 communities with 70,339 apartment homes nationwide. The following table summarizes our market information by major geographic markets (includes real estate held for disposition, real estate under development, and land, but excludes commercial properties):
(a)
Total Income per Occupied Home represents total revenues per weighted average number of apartment homes occupied.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity is the ability to meet present and future financial obligations either through operating cash flows, the sale or maturity of existing assets, or by the acquisition of additional funds through capital management. Both the coordination of asset and liability maturities and effective capital management are important to the maintenance of liquidity. Our primary source of liquidity is our cash flow from operations as determined by rental rates, occupancy levels, and operating expenses related to our portfolio of apartment homes. We routinely use our unsecured bank credit facility to temporarily fund certain investing and financing activities prior to arranging for longer-term financing. During the past several years, proceeds from the sale of real estate have been used for both investing and financing activities.
We expect to meet our short-term liquidity requirements generally through net cash provided by operations and borrowings under credit arrangements. We expect to meet certain long-term liquidity requirements such as scheduled debt maturities, the repayment of financing on development activities, and potential property acquisitions, through long-term secured and unsecured borrowings, the disposition of properties, and the issuance of additional debt or equity securities. We believe that our net cash provided by operations will continue to be adequate to meet both operating requirements and the payment of dividends by the company in accordance with REIT requirements in both the short- and long-term. Likewise, the budgeted expenditures for improvements and renovations of certain properties are expected to be funded from property operations.
We have a shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission which provides for the issuance of an indeterminate amount of common stock, preferred stock, debt securities, warrants, purchase contracts and units to facilitate future financing activities in the public capital markets. Access to capital markets is dependent on market conditions at the time of issuance.
Future Capital Needs
Future development expenditures are expected to be funded with proceeds from the sale of property, with construction loans, through joint ventures and, to a lesser extent, with cash flows provided by operating activities. Acquisition activity in strategic markets is expected to be largely financed through the issuance of equity and debt securities, the issuance of operating partnership units, the assumption or placement of secured and/or unsecured debt and by the reinvestment of proceeds from the sale of properties.
During 2007, we have approximately $81.7 million of secured debt and $167.3 million of unsecured debt maturing and we anticipate repaying that debt with proceeds from borrowings under our secured or unsecured credit facilities, the issuance of new unsecured debt securities or equity or from disposition proceeds.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our critical accounting policies are those having the most impact on the reporting of our financial condition and results and those requiring significant judgments and estimates. These policies include those related to (1) capital expenditures, (2) impairment of long-lived assets, and (3) real estate investment properties. With respect to these critical accounting policies, we believe that the application of judgments and assessments is consistently applied and produces financial information that fairly depicts the results of operations for all periods presented.
Capital Expenditures
In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, we capitalize those expenditures related to acquiring new assets, materially enhancing the value of an existing asset, or substantially extending the useful life of an existing asset. Expenditures necessary to maintain an existing property in ordinary operating condition are expensed as incurred.
During 2006, $215.7 million or $2,996 per home was spent on capital expenditures for all of our communities, excluding development, condominium conversions and commercial properties. These capital improvements included turnover related expenditures for floor coverings and appliances, other recurring capital expenditures such as roofs, siding, parking lots, and other non-revenue enhancing capital expenditures, which
aggregated $34.6 million or $480 per home. In addition, revenue enhancing capital expenditures, kitchen and bath upgrades, upgrades to HVAC equipment, and other extensive exterior/interior upgrades totaled $144.1 million or $2,002 per home, and major renovations totaled $37.0 million or $514 per home for the year ended December 31, 2006.
The following table outlines capital expenditures and repair and maintenance costs for all of our communities, excluding real estate under development, condominium conversions and commercial properties for the periods presented:
Total capital improvements increased $59.6 million or $934 per home for the year ended December 31, 2006 compared to the same period in 2005. This increase was attributable to an additional $18.3 million of major renovations at certain of our properties. These renovations included the re-wiring and/or re-plumbing of an entire building as well as major structural changes and/or architectural revisions to existing buildings. The increase was also attributable to an additional $45.5 million being invested in revenue enhancing improvements. These increases were offset by a $4.2 million decrease in recurring capital expenditures. We will continue to selectively add revenue enhancing improvements which we believe will provide a return on investment substantially in excess of our cost of capital. Recurring capital expenditures during 2007 are currently expected to be approximately $610 per home.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
We record impairment losses on long-lived assets used in operations when events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by the future operation and disposition of those assets are less than the net book value of those assets. Our cash flow estimates are based upon historical results adjusted to reflect our best estimate of future market and operating conditions and our estimated holding periods. The net book value of impaired assets is reduced to fair market value. Our estimates of fair market value represent our best estimate based upon industry trends and reference to market rates and transactions.
Real Estate Investment Properties
We purchase real estate investment properties from time to time and allocate the purchase price to various components, such as land, buildings, and intangibles related to in-place leases in accordance with FASB Statement No. 141, “Business Combinations.” The purchase price is allocated based on the relative fair value of each component. The fair value of buildings is determined as if the buildings were vacant upon acquisition and subsequently leased at market rental rates. As such, the determination of fair value considers the present
value of all cash flows expected to be generated from the property including an initial lease-up period. We determine the fair value of in-place leases by assessing the net effective rent and remaining term of the lease relative to market terms for similar leases at acquisition. In addition, we consider the cost of acquiring similar leases, the foregone rents associated with the lease-up period, and the carrying costs associated with the lease-up period. The fair value of in-place leases is recorded and amortized as amortization expense over the remaining contractual lease period.
Statements of Cash Flow
The following discussion explains the changes in net cash provided by operating activities and net cash used in investing and financing activities that are presented in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
Operating Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2006, our net cash flow provided by operating activities was $229.6 million compared to $248.2 million for 2005. During 2006, the decrease in cash flow from operating activities resulted primarily from an $18.5 million increase in interest expense, a decrease of $17.1 million in other income due to a 2005 sale of a technology investment, an $11.4 million increase in operating assets and a $9.8 million decrease in operating liabilities in 2006 as compared to 2005. These decreases in cash flow from operating activities were partially offset by a $34.2 million increase in property operating results from our apartment community portfolio (see discussion under “Apartment Community Operations”), $5.1 million more in gains recognized from the sale of depreciable property and an unconsolidated joint venture in 2006 as compared to 2005, and an $8.5 million decrease in prepayment penalties from 2005.
Investing Activities
For the year ended December 31, 2006, net cash used in investing activities was $150.0 million compared to $219.0 million for 2005. Changes in the level of investing activities from period to period reflects our strategy as it relates to our acquisition, capital expenditure, development, and disposition programs, as well as the impact of the capital market environment on these activities, all of which are discussed in further detail below.
Acquisitions
For the year ended December 31, 2006, we acquired eight apartment communities with 2,763 apartment homes for an aggregate consideration of $327.5 million and two parcels of land for $19.9 million. For 2005, we acquired eight apartment communities with 2,561 apartment homes for an aggregate consideration of $390.9 million and one parcel of land for $2.9 million. Our long-term strategic plan is to achieve greater operating efficiencies by investing in fewer, more concentrated markets. As a result, we have been expanding our interests in the fast growing Southern California, Florida, and Metropolitan Washington DC markets over the past three years. During 2007, we plan to continue to channel new investments into those markets we believe will provide the best investment returns. Markets will be targeted based upon defined criteria including past performance, expected job growth, current and anticipated housing supply and demand and the ability to attract and support household formation.
Real Estate Under Development
Development activity is focused in core markets in which we have strong operations in place. For the year ended December 31, 2006, we invested approximately $101.8 million in development projects, an increase of $52.5 million from our 2005 level of $49.3 million.
The following wholly owned projects were under development as of December 31, 2006:
In addition, we owned five parcels of land held for future development aggregating $35.4 million at December 31, 2006.
Development Joint Ventures
In June 2006, we completed the formation of a development joint venture that will invest approximately $138 million to develop one apartment community with 298 apartment homes in Marina del Rey, California. UDR is the financial partner and is responsible for funding the costs of development and receives a preferred return from 7% to 8.5% before our partner receives a 50% participation. Our initial investment was $27.5 million.
In July 2006, we closed on a joint venture to develop a site in Bellevue, Washington. At closing, we owned 49% of the $135 million project that involves building a 400 home high rise apartment building with ground floor retail. Our initial investment was $5.7 million.
In November 2006, we closed on a joint venture to develop a site close to Bellevue Plaza in the central business district of Bellevue, Washington. This project will include the development of 271 apartment homes. Construction began in the fourth quarter of 2006 and is scheduled for completion in 2008. At closing, we owned 49% of the $97 million project. Our initial investment was $10.0 million.
Under FASB Interpretation No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities,” these ventures have been consolidated into UDR’s financial statements. Our joint venture partners are the managing partners as well as the developers, general contractors, and property managers.
The following consolidated joint venture projects were under development as of December 31, 2006:
Disposition of Investments
For the year ended December 31, 2006, UDR sold 24 communities with 7,653 apartment homes for a gross consideration of $444.9 million. In addition, we sold 384 condominiums from four communities with a total of 612 condominiums for a gross consideration of $72.1 million. We recognized after-tax gains for financial reporting purposes of $148.6 million on these sales. Proceeds from the sales were used primarily to reduce debt.
For the year ended December 31, 2005, UDR sold 22 communities with 6,352 apartment homes and 240 condominiums from five communities with a total of 648 condominiums for a gross consideration of $456.3 million. In addition, we sold our investment in an unconsolidated joint venture for $39.2 million and one parcel of land for $0.9 million. We recognized gains for financial reporting purposes of $143.5 million on these sales. Proceeds from the sales were used primarily to reduce debt and acquire additional communities. In conjunction with the sale of ten communities in July 2005, we received short-term notes for $124.7 million that bear interest at 6.75% and had maturities ranging from September 2005 to July 2006. As of December 31, 2006, all of the notes receivable had matured and had been repaid. We recognized previously deferred gains for financial reporting purposes of $6.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2006.
During 2007, we plan to continue to pursue our strategy of exiting markets where long-term growth prospects are limited and redeploying capital into those markets we believe will provide the best investment returns. We intend to use the proceeds from 2007 dispositions to reduce debt, acquire communities, and fund development activity.
Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities during 2006 was $93.0 million compared to $21.5 million in 2005. As part of the plan to improve our balance sheet, we utilized proceeds from dispositions, equity and debt offerings, and refinancings to extend maturities, pay down existing debt, and purchase new properties.
The following is a summary of our financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2006:
•
Repaid $70.3 million of secured debt and $138.8 million of unsecured debt.
•
Authorized a new 10 million share repurchase program in February 2006. This program replaces our previous 11 million share repurchase program under which we repurchased approximately 10 million shares.
•
Sold $125 million aggregate principal amount of 6.05% senior unsecured notes due June 2013 in June 2006 under our medium-term note program. The net proceeds of approximately $124 million were used for debt repayment.
•
Sold $250 million aggregate principal amount of 3.625% convertible senior unsecured notes due 2011 in October 2006. The net proceeds of approximately $245 million were used for the repayment of indebtedness under our revolving credit facility, the cost of a capped call transaction, and for other general corporate purposes. The capped call instrument effectively increased the conversion premium to 40%.
Credit Facilities
We have four secured revolving credit facilities with Fannie Mae with an aggregate commitment of $860 million. As of December 31, 2006, $691.8 million was outstanding under the Fannie Mae credit facilities leaving $168.2 million of unused capacity. The Fannie Mae credit facilities are for an initial term of ten years, bear interest at floating and fixed rates, and can be extended for an additional five years at our discretion. We have $399.4 million of the funded balance fixed at a weighted average interest rate of 6.1% and the remaining balance on these facilities is currently at a weighted average variable rate of 5.9%.
We have a $500 million unsecured revolving credit facility that matures in May 2008 and, at our option, can be extended an additional year. We have the right to increase the credit facility to $750 million under
certain circumstances. Based on our current credit ratings, the credit facility bears interest at a rate equal to LIBOR plus 57.5 basis points. Under a competitive bid feature, and for so long as we maintain an Investment Grade Rating, we have the right to bid out 100% of the commitment amount. As of December 31, 2006, $87.2 million was outstanding under the credit facility leaving $412.8 million of unused capacity.
The Fannie Mae credit facility and the bank revolving credit facility are subject to customary financial covenants and limitations.
Interest Rate Risk
We are exposed to interest rate risk associated with variable rate notes payable and maturing debt that has to be refinanced. We do not hold financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes, but rather issue these financial instruments to finance our portfolio of real estate assets. Interest rate sensitivity is the relationship between changes in market interest rates and the fair value of market rate sensitive assets and liabilities. Our earnings are affected as changes in short-term interest rates impact our cost of variable rate debt and maturing fixed rate debt. A large portion of our market risk is exposure to short-term interest rates from variable rate borrowings outstanding under our Fannie Mae credit facility and our bank revolving credit facility, which totaled $292.5 million and $87.2 million, respectively, at December 31, 2006. The impact on our financial statements of refinancing fixed rate debt that matured during 2006 was immaterial.
If market interest rates for variable rate debt average 100 basis points more in 2007 than they did during 2006, our interest expense would increase, and income before taxes would decrease by $4.9 million. Comparatively, if market interest rates for variable rate debt had averaged 100 basis points more in 2006 than in 2005, our interest expense would have increased, and net income would have decreased by $6.0 million. If market rates for fixed rate debt were 100 basis points higher at December 31, 2006, the fair value of fixed rate debt would have decreased from $2.7 billion to $2.6 billion. If market interest rates for fixed rate debt were 100 basis points lower at December 31, 2006, the fair value of fixed rate debt would have increased from $2.7 billion to $2.9 billion.
These amounts are determined by considering the impact of hypothetical interest rates on our borrowing cost. These analyses do not consider the effects of the adjusted level of overall economic activity that could exist in such an environment. Further, in the event of a change of such magnitude, management would likely take actions to further mitigate our exposure to the change. However, due to the uncertainty of the specific actions that would be taken and their possible effects, the sensitivity analysis assumes no change in our financial structure.
Funds from Operations
Funds from operations, or FFO, is defined as net income (computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles), excluding gains (or losses) from sales of depreciable property, plus real estate depreciation and amortization, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. We compute FFO for all periods presented in accordance with the recommendations set forth by the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trust’s (“NAREIT”) April 1, 2002 White Paper. We consider FFO in evaluating property acquisitions and our operating performance, and believe that FFO should be considered along with, but not as an alternative to, net income and cash flow as a measure of our activities in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. FFO does not represent cash generated from operating activities in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and is not necessarily indicative of cash available to fund cash needs.
Historical cost accounting for real estate assets in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles implicitly assumes that the value of real estate assets diminishes predictably over time. Since real estate values instead have historically risen or fallen with market conditions, many industry investors and analysts have considered the presentation of operating results for real estate companies that use historical cost accounting to be insufficient by themselves. Thus, NAREIT created FFO as a supplemental measure of REIT operating performance and defines FFO as net income (computed in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States), excluding gains (or losses) from sales of depreciable property, plus
depreciation and amortization, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. The use of FFO, combined with the required presentations, has been fundamentally beneficial, improving the understanding of operating results of REITs among the investing public and making comparisons of REIT operating results more meaningful. We generally consider FFO to be a useful measure for reviewing our comparative operating and financial performance (although FFO should be reviewed in conjunction with net income which remains the primary measure of performance) because by excluding gains or losses related to sales of previously depreciated operating real estate assets and excluding real estate asset depreciation and amortization, FFO can help one compare the operating performance of a company’s real estate between periods or as compared to different companies. We believe that FFO is the best measure of economic profitability for real estate investment trusts.
The following table outlines our FFO calculation and reconciliation to generally accepted accounting principles for the three years ended December 31, 2006 (dollars in thousands):
In the computation of diluted FFO, OP Units, out-performance partnership shares, and the shares of Series D Cumulative Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock and Series E Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock are dilutive; therefore, they are included in the diluted share count. For the year ended December 31, 2004, distributions to preferred stockholders exclude $5.7 million related to premiums on preferred stock conversions.
Net incremental gains on the sale of condominium homes and the net incremental gain on the disposition of real estate investments developed for sale are defined as net sales proceeds less a tax provision and the gross investment basis of the asset before accumulated depreciation. We consider FFO with gains/losses on the sale of condominium homes and gains/losses on the disposition of real estate investments developed for sale to be a meaningful supplemental measure of performance because the short-term use of funds produce a profit that differs from the traditional long-term investment in real estate for REITs.
The following table is our reconciliation of FFO share information to weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted, reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three years ended December 31, 2006 (shares in thousands):
FFO also does not represent cash generated from operating activities in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and therefore should not be considered an alternative to net cash flows from operating activities, as determined by generally accepted accounting principles, as a measure of liquidity. Additionally, it is not necessarily indicative of cash availability to fund cash needs. A presentation of cash flow metrics based on generally accepted accounting principles is as follows (dollars in thousands):
Results of Operations
The following discussion includes the results of both continuing and discontinued operations for the periods presented.
Net Income Available to Common Stockholders
2006-vs.-2005
Net income available to common stockholders was $113.2 million ($0.85 per diluted share) for the year ended December 31, 2006, compared to $139.8 million ($1.03 per diluted share) for the year ended December 31, 2005, representing a decrease of $26.6 million ($0.18 per diluted share). The decrease for the year ended December 31, 2006, when compared to the same period in 2005, resulted primarily from the following items, all of which are discussed in further detail elsewhere within this Report:
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$31.7 million more in depreciation and amortization expense in 2006,
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$18.5 million more in interest expense in 2006,
•
$17.1 million less in non-property income in 2006, and
•
$6.4 million more in general and administrative expense in 2006.
These decreases in net income were partially offset by $5.1 million more in gains recognized from the sale of depreciable property and an unconsolidated joint venture, an $8.5 million decrease in losses on early debt retirement, and a $34.2 million increase in apartment community operating results in 2006 when compared to 2005.
2005-vs.-2004
Net income available to common stockholders was $139.8 million ($1.03 per diluted share) for the year ended December 31, 2005, compared to $71.9 million ($0.56 per diluted share) for the year ended December 31, 2004, representing an increase of $67.9 million ($0.47 per diluted share). The increase in net income for the year ended December 31, 2005, when compared to the same period in 2004, resulted primarily from the following items, all of which are discussed in further detail elsewhere within this Report:
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$90.6 million more in gains recognized from the sale of depreciable property and an unconsolidated joint venture in 2005,
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a $32.6 million increase in apartment community operating results in 2005,
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an $18.1 million increase in non-property income in 2005,
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a $5.7 million decrease in premiums paid on preferred stock conversions in 2005,
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a $5.5 million charge recorded for hurricane related expenses in 2004,
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$4.2 million less in preferred stock distributions in 2005, and
•
$2.5 million in hurricane related insurance recoveries in 2005.
These increases in net income were partially offset by a $38.7 million increase in interest expense, a $31.8 million increase in real estate depreciation and amortization expense, an $8.5 million increase in losses on early debt retirement, and a $5.5 million increase in general and administrative expense in 2005 when compared to 2004.
Apartment Community Operations
Our net income is primarily generated from the operation of our apartment communities. The following table summarizes the operating performance of our total apartment portfolio for each of the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
*
Excludes depreciation, amortization, and property management expenses. Also excludes $5.5 million of hurricane related expenses in 2004 and $2.5 million of hurricane related insurance recoveries in 2005.
**
Based upon weighted average stabilized units.
The following table is our reconciliation of property operating income to net income as reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the periods presented (dollars in thousands):
2006-vs.-2005
Same Communities
Our same communities (those communities acquired, developed, and stabilized prior to December 31, 2005 and held on December 31, 2006, which consisted of 60,062 apartment homes) provided 82% of our property operating income for the year ended December 31, 2006.
For the year ended December 31, 2006, same community property operating income increased 8.6% or $30.4 million compared to 2005. The increase in property operating income was primarily attributable to a 6.0% or $34.2 million increase in revenues from rental and other income that was offset by a 1.8% or $3.9 million increase in operating expenses. The increase in revenues from rental and other income was primarily driven by a 4.9% or $28.4 million increase in rental rates, a 17.6% or $2.2 million decrease in concession expense, and a 12.5% or $5.0 million increase in utility reimbursement income and fee income. Physical occupancy increased 0.1% to 94.7%.
The increase in property operating expenses was primarily driven by a 15.8% or $1.6 million increase in insurance costs, a 4.4% or $1.5 million increase in utility costs, a 2.8% or $1.5 million increase in personnel costs, a 1.1% or $0.4 million increase in repair and maintenance expenses, and a 0.5% or $0.3 million increase in real estate taxes. These increases in operating expenses were partially offset by a 6.0% or $1.2 million decrease in administrative and marketing expenses.
As a result of the percentage changes in property rental income and property operating expenses, the operating margin (property operating income divided by property rental income) increased 1.5% to 63.5%.
Non-Mature Communities
The remaining 18% of our property operating income during 2006 was generated from communities that we classify as “non-mature communities” (primarily those communities acquired or developed in 2005 and 2006, sold properties, and those properties classified as real estate held for disposition). The 16 communities with 5,324 apartment homes that we acquired in 2005 and 2006 provided $32.8 million of property operating income. The 46 communities with 14,005 homes and the 624 condominiums from five communities that we sold in 2005 and 2006 provided $18.3 million of property operating income. In addition, our development communities, which included 438 apartment homes completed in 2005 and 2006, provided $2.2 million of operating income and the two communities with 475 apartment homes, one community with 320
condominiums, and the one commercial unit classified as real estate held for disposition provided $5.5 million of property operating income. Other non-mature communities provided $23.1 million of property operating income for the year ended December 31, 2006.
2005-vs.-2004
Same Communities
Our same communities (those communities acquired, developed, and stabilized prior to September 30, 2004 and held on December 31, 2005, which consisted of 58,840 apartment homes) provided 73% of our property operating income for the year ended December 31, 2005.
For the year ended December 31, 2005, same community property operating income increased 3.4% or $10.3 million compared to 2004. The increase in property operating income was primarily attributable to a 3.8% or $18.6 million increase in revenues from rental and other income that was partially offset by a 4.4% or $8.3 million increase in operating expenses. The increase in revenues from rental and other income was primarily driven by a 2.0% or $10.3 million increase in rental rates, a 20.2% or $2.9 million decrease in concession expense, a 7.5% or $2.6 million increase in utility reimbursement income and fee income, a 7.8% or $2.5 million decrease in vacancy loss, and a 15.6% or $0.4 million decrease in bad debt expense. Physical occupancy increased 0.6% to 94.5%.
The increase in property operating expenses was primarily driven by a 4.3% or $2.0 million increase in real estate taxes, a 3.8% or $1.9 million increase in personnel costs, a 3.8% or $1.1 million increase in utilities expense, a 2.9% or $0.9 million increase in repair and maintenance costs, a 4.7% or $0.8 million increase in administrative and marketing costs, a 46.7% or $0.7 million increase in incentive compensation, and a 5.4% or $0.5 million increase in insurance costs.
As a result of the percentage changes in property rental income and property operating expenses, the operating margin decreased 0.3% to 61.5%.
Non-Mature Communities
The remaining 27% of our property operating income during 2005 was generated from communities that we classify as “non-mature communities” (primarily those communities acquired or developed in 2003, 2004 and 2005, sold properties, and those properties classified as real estate held for disposition). The 41 communities with 12,458 apartment homes that we acquired in the fourth quarter of 2003, and in 2004 and 2005, provided $87.5 million of property operating income. The 22 communities with 6,352 apartment homes and 240 condominiums sold during 2005 provided $10.0 million of property operating income. In addition, our development communities, which included 244 apartment homes constructed since January 1, 2003, provided $0.7 million of property operating income during 2005, the four communities with a total of 384 condominiums classified as real estate held for disposition provided $0.3 million of property operating income, and other non-mature communities which includes homes that are undergoing major rehabilitation, provided $17.5 million of property operating income for the year ended December 31, 2005.
Real Estate Depreciation and Amortization
For the year ended December 31, 2006, real estate depreciation and amortization on both continuing and discontinued operations increased $31.7 million or 14.8% compared to 2005, primarily due to the significant increase in per home acquisition cost compared to the existing portfolio and other capital expenditures.
For the year ended December 31, 2005, real estate depreciation and amortization on both continuing and discontinued operations increased $31.8 million or 17.6% compared to 2004, primarily due to the significant increase in the per home acquisition cost compared to the existing portfolio and other capital expenditures.
Interest Expense
For the year ended December 31, 2006, interest expense on both continuing and discontinued operations increased $18.5 million or 11.3% from 2005 primarily due to the issuance of debt and higher interest rates. For the year ended December 31, 2006, the weighted average amount of debt outstanding increased 11.7% or $350.4 million compared to 2005 and the weighted average interest rate increased from 5.3% to 5.4% during 2006. The weighted average amount of debt outstanding during 2006 is higher than 2005 as acquisition costs in 2005 and in 2006 have been funded, in most part, by the issuance of debt. The increase in the weighted average interest rate during 2006 reflects short-term bank borrowings and variable rate debt that had higher interest rates when compared to the prior year that were partially offset by the retirement of higher coupon debt with lower coupon debt.
For the year ended December 31, 2005, interest expense on both continuing and discontinued operations increased $47.2 million or 38.1% from 2004 primarily due to the issuance of debt and $8.5 million in prepayment penalties. For the year ended December 31, 2005, the weighted average amount of debt outstanding increased 30.7% or $697.4 million compared to 2004 and the weighted average interest rate increased from 5.0% to 5.3% during 2005. The weighted average amount of debt outstanding during 2005 is higher than 2004 as acquisition costs in 2005 have been funded, in most part, by the issuance of debt. The increase in the weighted average interest rate during 2005 reflects short-term bank borrowings and variable rate debt that had higher interest rates when compared to the prior year.
General and Administrative
For the year ended December 31, 2006, general and administrative expenses increased $6.4 million or 25.7% over 2005 due to a number of factors, including increases in incentive compensation, professional fees, relocation costs, and an operating lease on an airplane.
For the year ended December 31, 2005, general and administrative expenses increased $5.5 million or 28.5% over 2004 primarily as a result of an increase in personnel and incentive compensation costs, an operating lease on an airplane, compliance costs and an operations improvement initiative.
Hurricane Related Expenses and Hurricane Related Insurance Recoveries
In 2005, $2.5 million of hurricane related insurance recoveries were recorded. In 2004, we recognized a $5.5 million charge to cover expenses associated with the damage in Florida caused by hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Jeanne. UDR reported that 25 of our 34 Florida communities were affected by the hurricanes.
Gains on the Sale of Land, Depreciable Property and an Unconsolidated Joint Venture
For the years ended December 31, 2006 and 2005, we recognized after-tax gains for financial reporting purposes of $148.6 million and $143.5 million, respectively. Changes in the level of gains recognized from period to period reflect the changing level of our divestiture activity from period to period as well as the extent of gains related to specific properties sold.
Premium on Preferred Stock Conversions
In the fourth quarter of 2004, we exercised our right to redeem 2 million shares of our Series D Cumulative Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock. Upon receipt of our redemption notice, the shares to be redeemed were converted by the holder into 3,076,769 shares of common stock at a price of $16.25 per share. As a result, we recognized a $5.7 million premium on preferred stock conversions.
The premium amount recognized to convert these shares represents the cumulative accretion to date between the conversion value of the preferred stock and the value at which it was recorded at the time of issuance.
eBay Purchase of Rent.com
On December 16, 2004, eBay announced that it had agreed to acquire privately held Rent.com, a leading Internet listing web site in the apartment and rental housing industry, for approximately $415 million plus acquisition costs, net of Rent.com’s cash on hand. On February 23, 2005, eBay announced that it had completed the acquisition. We owned shares in Rent.com, and as a result of the transaction, we recorded a one-time pre-tax gain of $12.3 million on the sale. In August 2006, we received an additional $0.8 million representing our portion of the escrow balance.
Inflation
We believe that the direct effects of inflation on our operations have been immaterial. Substantially all of our leases are for a term of one year or less which generally minimizes our risk from the adverse effects of inflation.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenue or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material.
Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2006 (dollars in thousands):
During 2006, we incurred interest costs of $181.2 million, of which $5.2 million was capitalized.
Factors Affecting Our Business and Prospects
There are many factors that affect our business and the results of our operations, some of which are beyond our control. These factors include:
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unfavorable changes in apartment market and economic conditions that could adversely affect occupancy levels, rental rates and purchase or sale prices of apartment communities,
•
the failure of acquisitions to achieve anticipated results,
•
possible difficulty in selling apartment communities,
•
the timing and closing of planned dispositions under agreement,
•
competitive factors that may limit our ability to lease apartment homes or increase or maintain rents,
•
insufficient cash flow that could affect our debt financing and create refinancing risk,
•
failure to generate sufficient revenue, which could impair our debt service payments and distributions to stockholders,
•
development and construction risks that may impact our profitability,
•
potential damage from natural disasters, including hurricanes and other weather-related events, which could result in substantial costs,
•
delays in completing developments and lease-ups on schedule,
•
our failure to succeed in new markets,
•
changing interest rates, which could increase interest costs and affect the market price of our securities,
•
potential liability for environmental contamination, which could result in substantial costs, and
•
the imposition of federal taxes if we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year.
Item 7A.
Item 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Information required by this item is included in and incorporated by reference from Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Report.
Item 8.
Item 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The consolidated financial statements and related financial information required to be filed are attached to this Report. Reference is made to page 44 of this Report for the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedule.
Item 9.
Item 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
Item 9A.
Item 9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of December 31, 2006, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed with the objective of ensuring that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in timely alerting them to material information required to be included in our periodic SEC reports.
It should be noted that the design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions, regardless of how remote. However, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective under circumstances where our disclosure controls and procedures should reasonably be expected to operate effectively.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
UDR’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, UDR’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO).
Based on UDR’s evaluation, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2006. Management’s assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over
financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report, which is included herein.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that during the quarter ended December 31, 2006, there has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B.
Item 9B.
OTHER INFORMATION
None.
PART III
Item 10.
Item 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information set forth under the headings “Election of Directors,” “Corporate Governance Matters,” “Audit Committee Report,” “Corporate Governance Matters-Audit Committee Financial Expert,” “Corporate Governance Matters-Identification and Selection of Nominees for Directors,” “Corporate Governance Matters-Board of Directors and Committee Meetings” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our definitive proxy statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 8, 2007.
Information required by this item regarding our executive officers is included in Part I of this Report in the section entitled “Business-Executive Officers of the Company.”
We have a code of ethics for senior financial officers that applies to our principal executive officer, all members of our finance staff, including the principal financial officer, the principal accounting officer, the treasurer and the controller, our director of investor relations, our corporate secretary, and all other company officers. We also have a code of business conduct and ethics that applies to all of our employees. Information regarding our codes is available on our website, www.udrt.com, and is incorporated by reference to the information set forth under the heading “Corporate Governance Matters” in our definitive proxy statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 8, 2007. We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirements under Item 10 of Form 8-K regarding an amendment to, or a waiver from, a provision of our codes by posting such amendment or waiver on our website.
Item 11.
Item 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information set forth under the headings “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management,” “Corporate Governance Matters-Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation,” “Executive Compensation,” “Compensation of Directors” and “Compensation Committee Report” in our definitive proxy statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 8, 2007.
Item 12.
Item 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information set forth under the headings “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management,” “Executive Compensation” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in our definitive proxy statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 8, 2007.
Item 13.
Item 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information set forth under the heading “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management,” “Corporate Governance Matters-Corporate Governance Overview,” “Corporate Governance Matters-Director Independence,” “Corporate Governance Matters-Independence of Audit, Compensation and Governance Committees,” and “Executive Compensation” in our definitive proxy statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 8, 2007.
Item 14.
Item 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information set forth under the headings “Audit Fees” and “Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures” in our definitive proxy statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 8, 2007.
PART IV
Item 15.
Item 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this Report:
1. Financial Statements. See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedule on page 44 of this Report.
2. Financial Statement Schedule. See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedule on page 44 of this Report. All other schedules are omitted because they are not required, are inapplicable, or the required information is included in the financial statements or notes thereto.
3. Exhibits. The exhibits filed with this Report are set forth in the Exhibit Index.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below on March 1, 2007 by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULE
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
All other schedules are omitted since the required information is not present or is not present in amounts sufficient to require submission of the schedule, or because the information required is included in the financial statements and notes thereto.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Board of Directors and Stockholders
United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc.
We have audited management’s assessment, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting included at Item 9A, that United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc. (the “Company”) maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management’s assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, management’s assessment that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on the COSO criteria. Also, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2006 and 2005, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006 of United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc. and our report dated February 23, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Richmond, Virginia
February 23, 2007
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Board of Directors and Stockholders
United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2006 and 2005, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc. at December 31, 2006 and 2005, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 23, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Richmond, Virginia
February 23, 2007
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except for share data)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share data)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(In thousands, except share data)
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY - (Continued)
(In thousands, except share data)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31,
1.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Organization and formation
United Dominion Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation, was formed in 1972. We operate within one defined business segment with activities related to the ownership, management, development, acquisition, renovation, and disposition of multifamily apartment communities nationwide. At December 31, 2006, we owned 242 communities and had five communities under development.
Basis of presentation
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of UDR and its subsidiaries, including United Dominion Realty, L.P., (the “Operating Partnership”), and Heritage Communities L.P. (the “Heritage OP”), (collectively, “UDR”). As of December 31, 2006, there were 166,185,740 units in the Operating Partnership outstanding, of which 156,493,682 units or 94% were owned by UDR and 9,692,058 units or 6% were owned by limited partners (of which 1,650,322 are owned by the holders of the Series A OPPS). As of December 31, 2006, there were 5,542,200 units in the Heritage OP outstanding, of which 5,212,993 units or 94% were owned by UDR and 329,207 units or 6% were owned by limited partners. The consolidated financial statements of UDR include the minority interests of the unitholders in the Operating Partnership and the Heritage OP. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of estimates
The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual amounts realized or paid could differ from those estimates. Certain previously reported amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current financial statement presentation.
Real estate
Real estate assets held for investment are carried at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and any recorded impairment losses.
Expenditures for ordinary repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense as incurred. Expenditures for improvements, renovations, and replacements related to the acquisition and/or improvement of real estate assets are capitalized at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives if the value of the existing asset will be materially enhanced or the life of the related asset will be substantially extended beyond the original life expectancy.
UDR recognizes impairment losses on long-lived assets used in operations when there is an event or change in circumstance that indicates an impairment in the value of an asset and the undiscounted future cash flows are not sufficient to recover the asset’s carrying value. Our cash flow estimates are based upon historical results adjusted to reflect our best estimate of future market and operating conditions and our estimated holding periods. If such indicators of impairment are present, an impairment loss is recognized based on the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its fair value. Our estimates of fair market value represent our best estimate based upon industry trends and reference to market rates and transactions.
UDR purchases real estate investment properties from time to time and allocates the purchase price to various components, such as land, buildings, and intangibles related to in-place leases in accordance with FASB Statement No. 141, “Business Combinations.” The purchase price is allocated based on the relative fair
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
value of each component. The fair value of buildings is determined as if the buildings were vacant upon acquisition and subsequently leased at market rental rates. As such, the determination of fair value considers the present value of all cash flows expected to be generated from the property including an initial lease up period. UDR determines the fair value of in-place leases by assessing the net effective rent and remaining term of the lease relative to market terms for similar leases at acquisition. The fair value of in-place leases is recorded and amortized as amortization expense over the remaining contractual lease period. UDR determines the fair value of in-place leases by considering the cost of acquiring similar leases, the foregone rents associated with the lease-up period, and the carrying costs associated with the lease-up period.
For long-lived assets to be disposed of, impairment losses are recognized when the fair value of the asset less estimated cost to sell is less than the carrying value of the asset. Properties classified as real estate held for disposition generally represent properties that are actively marketed or contracted for sale which are expected to close within the next twelve months. Real estate held for disposition is carried at the lower of cost, net of accumulated depreciation, or fair value, less the cost to dispose, determined on an asset-by-asset basis. Expenditures for ordinary repair and maintenance costs on held for disposition properties are charged to expense as incurred. Expenditures for improvements, renovations, and replacements related to held for disposition properties are capitalized at cost. Depreciation is not recorded on real estate held for disposition.
Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related assets which is 35 years for buildings, 10 to 35 years for major improvements, and 3 to 10 years for furniture, fixtures, equipment, and other assets. The value of acquired in-place leases is amortized over the remaining term of each acquired in-place lease.
All development projects and related carrying costs are capitalized and reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as “Real estate under development.” As each building in a project is completed and becomes available for lease-up, the total cost of the building is transferred to real estate held for investment and the assets are depreciated over their estimated useful lives. The cost of development projects includes interest, real estate taxes, insurance, and allocated development overhead during the construction period.
Interest, real estate taxes, and incremental labor and support costs for personnel working directly on the development site are capitalized as part of the real estate under development to the extent that such charges do not cause the carrying value of the asset to exceed its net realizable value. During 2006, 2005, and 2004, total interest capitalized was $5.2 million, $2.8 million, and $1.0 million, respectively.
Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents include all cash and liquid investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased.
Restricted cash
Restricted cash consists of escrow deposits held by lenders for real estate taxes, insurance and replacement reserves, and security deposits.
Deferred financing costs
Deferred financing costs include fees and other external costs incurred to obtain debt financings and are generally amortized on a straight-line basis, which approximates the effective interest method, over a period not to exceed the term of the related debt. Unamortized financing costs are written-off when debt is retired before its maturity date. During 2006, 2005, and 2004, amortization expense was $6.1 million, $6.5 million, and $5.1 million, respectively.
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
Investments in unconsolidated development joint ventures
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method when major business decisions require approval by the other partners and UDR does not have control of the assets. Investments are recorded at cost and subsequently adjusted for equity in net income (loss) and cash contributions and distributions. UDR eliminates intercompany profits on sales of services that are provided to joint ventures. Differences between the carrying value of investments and the underlying equity in net assets of the investee are due to capitalized interest on the investment balance and capitalized development and leasing costs that are recovered by UDR through fees during construction.
Revenue recognition
UDR’s apartment homes are leased under operating leases with terms generally of one year or less. Rental income is recognized as it is earned and collectability is reasonably assured.
Advertising costs
All advertising costs are expensed as incurred and reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations within the line item “Administrative and marketing.” During 2006, 2005, and 2004, total advertising expense was $9.3 million, $11.2 million, and $10.5 million, respectively
Interest rate swap agreements
UDR accounts for its derivative instruments in accordance with Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133 and No. 138, “Accounting for Certain Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” At December 31, 2006, UDR has no derivative financial instruments reported on its Consolidated Balance Sheet. Prior to their maturity in July 2004, UDR’s derivative financial instruments consisted of interest rate swap agreements that were designated as cash flow hedges of debt with variable interest rate features, and as qualifying hedges for financial reporting purposes. For a derivative instrument that qualifies as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings during the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The remaining gain or loss on the derivative instrument in excess of the cumulative change in the present value of future cash flows of the hedged item, if any, is recognized in current earnings during the period of change.
As part of UDR’s overall interest rate risk management strategy, UDR used derivative financial instruments as a means to artificially fix variable rate debt or to hedge anticipated financing transactions. UDR’s derivative transactions used for interest rate risk management included various interest rate swaps with indices that related to the pricing of specific financial instruments of UDR. Because of the close correlation between the hedging instrument and the underlying cash flow exposure being hedged, fluctuations in the value of the derivative instruments were generally offset by changes in the cash flow of the underlying exposures. As a result, UDR appropriately controlled the risk so that derivatives used for interest rate risk management would not have a material unintended effect on consolidated earnings. UDR does not enter into derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
The fair value of UDR’s derivative instruments were reported on the balance sheet at their current fair value. The estimated fair value for our interest rate swaps relied on prevailing market interest rates. The interest rate swap agreements were designated with all or a portion of the principal balance and term of a specific debt obligation. Each interest rate swap involved the periodic exchange of payments over the life of the related agreement. An amount received or paid on the interest rate swap was recorded on an accrual basis as an adjustment to the related interest expense of the outstanding debt based on the accrual method of
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
accounting. The related amount payable to and receivable from counterparties was included in other liabilities and other assets, respectively.
When the terms of the underlying transaction were modified, or when the underlying hedged item ceased to exist, all changes in the fair value of the instrument were marked-to-market with changes in value included in net income each period until the instrument matured, unless the instrument was redesignated as a hedge of another transaction. If a derivative instrument was terminated or the hedging transaction was no longer determined to be effective, amounts held in accumulated other comprehensive income were reclassified into earnings over the term of the future cash outflows on the related debt.
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive income, which is defined as all changes in equity during each period except for those resulting from investments by or distributions to stockholders, is displayed in the accompanying Statements of Stockholders’ Equity. Other comprehensive income for 2004 consisted of unrealized gains or losses from derivative financial instruments. There is no difference between net income and total comprehensive income for 2006 and 2005.
Stock-based employee compensation plans
UDR adopted the fair-value-based method of accounting for share-based payments effective January 1, 2004, using the prospective method described in FASB Statement No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition and Disclosure.” UDR adopted Statement 123(R) on January 1, 2006, and has continued to use the Black-Scholes-Merton formula to estimate the value of stock options granted to employees, which have not been granted since 2002. Statement 123(R) must be applied not only to new awards but to previously granted awards that are not fully vested on the effective date (as of January 1, 2006, there were no unvested stock options). UDR adopted Statement 123 using the modified prospective transition method (which applied only to awards granted, modified or settled after the adoption date). The adoption of the provisions of Statement 123(R) did not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
Minority interests of unitholders in operating partnerships
Interests in operating partnerships held by limited partners are represented by operating partnership units (“OP Units”). The operating partnerships’ income is allocated to holders of OP Units based upon net income available to common stockholders and the weighted average number of OP Units outstanding to total common shares plus OP Units outstanding during the period. Capital contributions, distributions, and profits and losses are allocated to minority interests in accordance with the terms of the individual partnership agreements. OP Units can be exchanged for cash or shares of UDR’s common stock on a one-for-one basis, at the option of UDR. OP Units, as a percentage of total OP Units and shares outstanding, were 6.1% at December 31, 2006, 5.9% at December 31, 2005, and 6.3% at December 31, 2004.
Minority interests of outside partnerships
UDR has limited partners in certain real estate partnerships acquired in certain merger transactions. Net income for these partnerships is allocated based upon the percentage interest owned by these limited partners in each respective real estate partnership.
Earnings per share
Basic earnings per common share is computed based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings per common share is computed based upon common
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
shares outstanding plus the effect of dilutive stock options and other potentially dilutive common stock equivalents. The dilutive effect of stock options and other potentially dilutive common stock equivalents is determined using the treasury stock method based on UDR’s average stock price.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earning per share (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts):
The effect of the conversion of the operating partnership units, Series A, Series C, and Series D Out-Performance Partnership Shares, convertible preferred stock, and convertible debt is not dilutive and is therefore not included in the above calculations. If the operating partnership units were converted to common stock, the additional shares of common stock outstanding for the three years ended December 31, 2006, would be 8,693,981, 8,545,786, and 8,669,310 weighted average common shares, respectively. If the Series A Out-Performance Partnership Shares were converted to common stock, the additional shares of common stock outstanding for the three years ended December 31, 2006, would be 1,716,659, 1,778,251, and 1,791,329 weighted average common shares, respectively. If the convertible preferred stock were converted to common stock, the additional shares of common stock outstanding for the three years ended December 31, 2006, would be 2,803,812, 2,803,812, and 6,301,821 weighted average common shares, respectively. If the Series C and Series D Out-Performance Partnership Shares were converted to common stock, the additional shares of common stock outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2006, would be 313,145 and 75,869 weighted average common shares, respectively. If the convertible debt was converted to common stock, the additional shares of common stock outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2006, would be 68,132 weighted average common shares.
Income taxes
UDR is operated as, and elects to be taxed as, a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). Generally, a REIT complies with the provisions of the Code if it meets certain requirements concerning its income and assets, as well as if it distributes at least 90% of its REIT taxable income to its stockholders and will not be subject to U.S. federal income taxes if it distributes at least 100% of its income. Accordingly, no provision has been made for federal income taxes of the REIT. UDR is subject to certain state and local excise or franchise taxes, for which provision has been made. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, our taxable income will be subject to United States Federal income tax at regular corporate rates (including any applicable alternative minimum tax). Even if we qualify
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
as a REIT, we may be subject to certain state and local income taxes and to United States Federal income tax. We also will be required to pay a 100% tax on non-arms length transactions between us and a taxable REIT subsidiary and on any net income from sales of property that the IRS successfully asserts was property held for sale to customers in the ordinary course.
The differences between net income available to common stockholders for financial reporting purposes and taxable income before dividend deductions relate primarily to temporary differences, principally real estate depreciation and the tax deferral of certain gains on property sales. The differences in depreciation result from differences in the book and tax basis of certain real estate assets and the differences in the methods of depreciation and lives of the real estate assets.
Consolidation of development partnerships
UDR adopted FASB Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities,” as required, effective March 31, 2004. The adoption required the consolidation of all previously unconsolidated development projects, in which UDR was deemed to be the primary beneficiary. FIN No. 46 requires the Company to consolidate the assets, liabilities and results of operations of the activities of a variable interest entity, for which the Company includes only its development partnerships, if the Company is the primary beneficiary of the partnership. The primary beneficiary is the partner that is entitled to receive a majority of the entity’s residual returns and/or is subject to a majority of the risk of loss from such entity’s activities. As of December 31, 2006, UDR was the primary beneficiary of, and therefore consolidated, its three development partnerships.
Impact of recently issued accounting pronouncements
In July 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” This interpretation requires that income tax positions recognized in an entity’s tax returns have a more-likely-than-not chance of being sustained prior to recording the related tax benefit in the financial statements. Tax benefits would be derecognized if information became available which indicated that it was more-likely-than-not that the position would not be sustained. UDR will adopt this interpretation in the first quarter of fiscal 2007. The Company has substantially completed its analysis of the interpretation and does not expect it to have a material impact on its financial position.
2.
REAL ESTATE OWNED
UDR operates in 33 markets dispersed throughout 16 states. At December 31, 2006, our largest apartment market was Orange County, California, where we owned 12% of our apartment homes, based upon carrying value. Excluding Orange County, California, UDR did not own more than 8% of its apartment homes in any one market, based upon carrying value.
The following table summarizes real estate held for investment at December 31, (dollars in thousands):
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
The following is a summary of real estate held for investment by major geographic markets (in order of carrying value, excluding real estate held for disposition and real estate under development) at December 31, 2006 (dollars in thousands):
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
The following is a summary of real estate held for disposition by major category at December 31, 2006 (dollars in thousands):
The following is a summary of real estate under development by major category at December 31, 2006 (dollars in thousands):
3.
INCOME FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
UDR adopted FASB Statement No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” (FAS 144) as of January 1, 2002. FAS 144 requires, among other things, that the primary assets and liabilities and the results of operations of UDR’s real properties which have been sold subsequent to January 1, 2005, or are held for disposition subsequent to January 1, 2005, be classified as discontinued operations and segregated in UDR’s Consolidated Statements of Operations and Balance Sheets. Properties classified as real estate held for disposition generally represent properties that are actively marketed or contracted for sale which are expected to close within the next twelve months.
For purposes of these financial statements, FAS 144 results in the presentation of the primary assets and liabilities and the net operating results of those properties sold or classified as held for disposition through December 31, 2006, as discontinued operations for all periods presented. The adoption of FAS 144 does not have an impact on net income available to common stockholders. FAS 144 only results in the reclassification of the operating results of all properties sold or classified as held for disposition through December 31, 2006 within the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004, and the reclassification of the assets and liabilities within the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2006 and 2005.
For the year ended December 31, 2006, UDR sold 24 communities and 384 condominiums from four communities with a total of 612 condominiums. We recognized gains for financial reporting purposes of $148.6 million on these sales. At December 31, 2006, UDR had two communities with a net book value of $18.3 million, one community with a total of 320 condominiums and a net book value of $19.0 million, one commercial unit with a net book value of $0.4 million, and one parcel of land with a net book value of $4.1 million included in real estate held for disposition. During 2005, UDR sold 22 communities, 240 condominiums from five communities with a total of 648 condominiums, and one parcel of land. We recognized gains for financial reporting purposes of $139.7 million on these sales. In conjunction with the sale of ten communities in July 2005, we received short-term notes for $124.7 million that bear interest at 6.75% and had maturities ranging from September 2005 to July 2006. As of December 31, 2006, all of the notes receivable had matured and had been repaid. We recognized previously deferred gains for financial reporting
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
purposes of $6.4 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2006. During 2004, UDR sold 19 communities, 24 condominiums from a community of 36 condominiums, and one parcel of land. The results of operations for these properties and the interest expense associated with the secured debt on these properties are classified on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the line item entitled “Income from discontinued operations, net of minority interests.”
The following is a summary of income from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, (dollars in thousands):
UNITED DOMINION REALTY TRUST, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - (Continued)
4.
SECURED DEBT
Secured debt on continuing and discontinued operations of UDR’s real estate portfolio, which encumbers $1.9 billion or 33% of real estate owned based upon book value ($3.9 billion or 67% of UDR’s real estate owned is unencumbered) consists of the following as of December 31, 2006 (dollars in thousands):
Fixed Rate Debt
Mortgage notes payable. Fixed rate mortgage notes payable are generally due in monthly installments of principal and interest and mature at various dates from December 2007 through July 2027 and carry interest rates ranging from 4.55% to 8.18%.
Tax-exempt secured notes payable. Fixed rate mortgage notes payable that secure tax-exempt housing bond issues mature at various dates from May 2008 through March 2031 and carry interest rates ranging from 5.30% to 6.47%. Interest on these notes is generally payable in semi-annual installments.
Secured credit facilities. At December 31, 2006, UDR’s fixed rate secured credit facilities consisted of $399.4 million of the $691.8 million outstanding on an $860 million aggregate commitment under four revolving secured credit facilities with Fannie Mae. The Fannie Mae credit facilities are for an initial term of ten years, bear interest at floating and fixed rates, and can be extended for an additional five years at our discretion. As of December 31, 2006, the fixed rate Fannie Mae credit facilities had a weighted average fixed rate of interest of 6.09%.
Variable Rate Debt
Mortgage notes payable. Variable rate mortgage notes payable are generally due in monthly installments of principal and interest and mature at various dates from October 2009 through July 2013. As of December 31, 2006, these notes had interest rates ranging from 5.99% to 7.70%.
Tax-exempt secured note payable. The variable rate mortgage note payable that secures tax-exempt housing bond issues matures in July 2028. As of December 31, 2006, this note had an interest rate of 3.70%. Interest on this note is payable in monthly installments.
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Secured credit facilities. At December 31, 2006, UDR’s variable rate secured credit facilities consisted of $292.5 million outstanding on the Fannie Mae credit facilities. As of December 31, 2006, the variable rate Fannie Mae credit facilities had a weighted average floating rate of interest of 5.86%.
The aggregate maturities of secured debt for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2006 are as follows (dollars in thousands):
During the first quarter of 2005, we prepaid approximately $110 million of secured debt. In conjunction with these prepayments, we incurred prepayment penalties of $8.5 million in both continuing and discontinued operations as “Loss on early debt retirement.” These penalties were funded by the proceeds from the sale of our technology investment of $12.3 million.
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5.
UNSECURED DEBT
A summary of unsecured debt as of December 31, 2006 and 2005 is as follows (dollars in thousands):
(a)
UDR has a three-year $500 million unsecured revolving credit facility. The credit facility matures on May 31, 2008, and at UDR’s option, can be extended for an additional year. UDR has the right to increase the credit facility to $750 million under certain circumstances. Based on UDR’s current credit ratings, the credit facility carries an interest rate equal to LIBOR plus a spread of 57.5 basis points. Under a competitive bid feature, and for so long as UDR maintains an Investment Grade Rating, UDR has the right to bid out 100% of the commitment amount.
(b)
In January 2007, this medium-term note matured and was repaid using proceeds from property dispositions.
(c)
At any time on or after July 15, 2011, prior to the close of business on the second business day prior to September 15, 2011, and also following the occurrence of certain events, the notes will be convertible at the option of the holder. Upon conversion of the notes, UDR will deliver cash and common stock, if any,
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based on a daily conversion value calculated on a proportionate basis for each trading day of the relevant 30 trading day observation period. The initial conversion rate for each $1,000 principal amount of notes is 26.6326 shares of our common stock, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances. In connection with the issuance of the 3.625% convertible senior notes, UDR entered into a capped call transaction with respect to its common stock. The convertible note and capped call transactions, both of which expire September 2011, must be net share settled. The maximum number of shares to be issued under the convertible notes is 6.7 million shares, subject to certain adjustment provisions. The capped call transaction combines a purchased call option with a strike price of $37.548 with a written call option with a strike price of $43.806. These transactions have no effect on the terms of the 3.625% convertible senior notes and are intended to reduce the potential dilution upon future conversion of the 3.625% convertible senior notes by effectively increasing the initial conversion price to $43.806 per share, representing a 40% conversion premium. The net cost of $12.6 million of the capped call transaction was included in stockholders’ equity.
(d)
Prior to December 15, 2030, upon the occurrence of specified events, the notes will be convertible at the option of the holder into cash and, in certain circumstances, shares of UDR’s common stock at an initial conversion rate of 35.2988 shares per $1,000 principal amount of notes (which equates to an initial conversion price of approximately $28.33 per share). On or after December 15, 2030, the notes will be convertible at any time prior to the second business day prior to maturity at the option of the holder into cash and, in certain circumstances, shares of UDR’s common stock at the above initial conversion rate. The initial conversion rate is subject to adjustment in certain circumstances.
The following is a summary of short-term bank borrowings under UDR’s bank credit facility at December 31, (dollars in thousands):
The aggregate maturities of unsecured debt for the five years subsequent to December 31, 2006 are as follows (dollars in thousands):
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6.
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred Stock
The Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock has no stated par value and a liquidation preference of $25 per share. The Series B has no voting rights except as required by law. The Series B has no stated maturity and is not subject to any sinking fund or mandatory redemption and is not convertible into any of our other securities. The Series B is not redeemable prior to May 29, 2007. On or after this date, the Series B may be redeemed for cash at our option, in whole or in part, at a redemption price of $25 per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends. The redemption price is payable solely out of the sale proceeds of our other capital stock. All dividends due and payable on the Series B have been accrued or paid as of the end of each fiscal year.
Distributions declared on the Series B in 2006 were $2.15 per share or $0.5375 per quarter. The Series B is listed on the NYSE under the symbol “UDRpb.” At December 31, 2006 and 2005, a total of 5,416,009 shares of the Series B were outstanding.
The Series E Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock has no stated par value and a liquidation preference of $16.61 per share. Subject to certain adjustments and conditions, each share of the Series E is convertible at any time and from time to time at the holder’s option into one share of our common stock. The holders of the Series E are entitled to vote on an as-converted basis as a single class in combination with the holders of common stock at any meeting of our stockholders for the election of directors or for any other purpose on which the holders of common stock are entitled to vote. The Series E has no stated maturity and is not subject to any sinking fund or any mandatory redemption.
Distributions declared on the Series E in 2006 were $1.33 per share or $0.3322 per quarter. The Series E is not listed on any exchange. At December 31, 2006 and 2005, a total of 2,803,812 shares of the Series E were outstanding.
UDR is authorized to issue up to 20,000,000 shares of our Series F Preferred Stock. The Series F Preferred Stock may be purchased by holders of UDR’s operating partnership units, or OP Units, at a purchase price of $0.0001 per share. OP Unitholders are entitled to subscribe for and purchase one share of UDR’s Series F Preferred Stock for each OP Unit held. At December 31, 2006, a total of 666,293 shares of the Series F Preferred Stock were outstanding at a value of $66.63. As of December 31, 2005, we had not issued any shares of our Series F Preferred Stock. Holders of the Series F Preferred Stock are entitled to one vote for each share of the Series F Preferred Stock they hold, voting together with the holders of our common stock, on each matter submitted to a vote of securityholders at a meeting of our stockholders. The Series F Preferred Stock does not entitle its holders to any other rights, privileges or preferences.
Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan
UDR’s Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (the “Stock Purchase Plan”) allows common and preferred stockholders the opportunity to purchase, through the reinvestment of cash dividends, additional shares of UDR’s common stock. As of December 31, 2006, 9,893,700 shares of common stock had been issued under the Stock Purchase Plan. Shares in the amount of 15,106,300 were reserved for further issuance under the Stock Purchase Plan as of December 31, 2006. During 2006, 44,691 shares were issued under the Stock Purchase Plan for a total consideration of approximately $1.3 million.
Restricted Stock Awards
UDR’s 1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) authorizes the grant of restricted stock awards to employees, officers, consultants, and directors of UDR. Compensation expense is recorded over the vesting period and is based upon the value of the common stock on the date of issuance. For the years ended
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December 31, 2006, 2005 and 2004, we recognized $4.5 million, $3.2 million, and $2.7 million, respectively, of compensation expense related to the amortization of restricted stock. As of December 31, 2006, 1,268,448 shares of restricted stock have been issued under the LTIP.
Shareholder Rights Plan
UDR’s First Amended and Restated Rights Agreement is intended to protect long-term interests of stockholders in the event of an unsolicited, coercive or unfair attempt to take over UDR. The plan authorized a dividend of one Preferred Share Purchase Right (the “Rights”) on each share of common stock outstanding. Each Right, which is not currently exercisable, will entitle the holder to purchase 1/1000 of a share of a new series of UDR’s preferred stock, designated as Series C Junior Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock, at a price to be determined upon the occurrence of the event, and for which the holder must be paid $45 should the takeover occur. Under the Plan, the Rights will be exercisable if a person or group acquires more than 15% of UDR’s common stock or announces a tender offer that would result in the ownership of 15% of UDR’s common stock.
7.
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The following estimated fair values of financial instruments were determined by UDR using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. Considerable judgment is necessary to interpret market data and develop estimated fair values. Accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts UDR would realize on the disposition of the financial instruments. The use of different market assumptions or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts. The carrying amounts and estimated fair value of UDR’s financial instruments as of December 31, 2006 and 2005, are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):
The following methods and assumptions were used by UDR in estimating fair values.
Cash equivalents
The carrying amount of cash equivalents approximates fair value.
Notes receivable
At December 31, 2006, UDR has a promissory note in the principal amount of $1.5 million that is due in February 2016. The note was received in connection with our investment in the development of an online leasing software and bears interest at 10.0%. In July 2006, UDR received a promissory note in the amount of $4.0 million that became due in January 2007. This note was received in connection with a joint venture project and bears interest at 6.8%. The carrying amount of these notes receivable approximate their fair value.
In July 2005, UDR received short-term notes in the principal amount of $124.7 million that bear interest at 6.75% and had maturities ranging from September 2005 to July 2006. The notes were received in conjunction with the sale of ten communities. As of December 31, 2006, all of the notes receivable had matured and had been repaid. We recognized previously deferred gains for financial reporting purposes of $6.4 million during 2006.
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In June 2003, UDR received a promissory note in the principal amount of $5 million that is due October 2011. The note was received in connection with one of our acquisitions and bears interest of 9.0% that is payable in annual installments. The carrying amount of this note receivable approximates its fair value.
Secured and unsecured debt
Estimated fair value is based on mortgage rates, tax-exempt bond rates, and corporate unsecured debt rates believed to be available to UDR for the issuance of debt with similar terms and remaining lives. The carrying amount of UDR’s variable rate secured debt approximates fair value as of December 31, 2006 and 2005. The carrying amounts of UDR’s borrowings under variable rate unsecured debt arrangements, short-term revolving credit agreements, and lines of credit, approximate their fair values as of December 31, 2006 and 2005.
8.
INCOME TAXES
The aggregate cost of our real estate assets for federal income tax purposes was approximately $5.3 billion at December 31, 2006.
The following table reconciles UDR’s net income to REIT taxable income for the three years ended December 31, 2006 (dollars in thousands):
For income tax purposes, distributions paid to common stockholders may consist of ordinary income, capital gains, and non-taxable return of capital, or a combination thereof. Distributions that exceed our current and accumulated earnings and profits constitute a return of capital rather than taxable income and reduce the stockholder’s basis in their common shares. To the extent that a distribution exceeds both current and accumulated earnings and profits and the stockholder’s basis in the common shares, it generally will be treated
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as a gain from the sale or exchange of that stockholder’s common shares. For the three years ended December 31, 2006, distributions paid per common share were taxable as follows:
We have taxable REIT subsidiaries that are subject to state and federal income taxes. Income tax expense consists of the following for the three years ended December 31, 2006, and is included in gains on the sales (dollars in thousands):
Income tax expense differed from the amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate of 35% to pretax income for the three years ended December 31, 2006, as follows (dollars in thousands):
Deferred income taxes reflect the estimated net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the corresponding amounts for income
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tax purposes. Our taxable REIT subsidiary’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows for the three years ended December 31, 2006 (dollars in thousands):
9.
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Profit Sharing Plan
Our Profit Sharing Plan (the “Plan”) is a defined contribution plan covering all eligible full-time employees. Under the Plan, UDR makes discretionary profit sharing and matching contributions to the Plan as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Aggregate provisions for contributions, both matching and discretionary, which are included in UDR’s Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004 were $0.7 million, $0.6 million, and $0.6 million, respectively.
Stock Option Plan
In May 2001, the stockholders of UDR approved the 1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “LTIP”), which supersedes the 1985 Stock Option Plan. With the approval of the LTIP, no additional grants will be made under the 1985 Stock Option Plan. The LTIP authorizes the granting of awards which may take the form of options to purchase shares of common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, dividend equivalents, other stock-based awards, and any other right or interest relating to common stock or cash. The Board of Directors reserved 4 million shares for issuance upon the grant or exercise of awards under the LTIP. The LTIP generally provides, among other things, that options are granted at exercise prices not lower than the market value of the shares on the date of grant and that options granted must be exercised within ten years. The maximum number of shares of stock that may be issued subject to incentive stock options is 4 million shares. Shares under options that expire or are cancelable are available for subsequent grant.
UDR adopted the fair-value-based method of accounting for share-based payments effective January 1, 2004, using the prospective method described in FASB Statement No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition and Disclosure.” UDR adopted Statement 123(R) on January 1, 2006, and has continued to use the Black-Scholes-Merton formula to estimate the value of stock options granted to employees, which have not been granted since 2002. Statement 123(R) must be applied not only to new awards but to previously granted awards that are not fully vested on the effective date (as of January 1, 2006, there were no unvested stock options). UDR adopted Statement 123 using the modified prospective transition method (which applied only to awards granted, modified or settled after the adoption date). The adoption of
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the provisions of Statement 123(R) did not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
A summary of UDR’s stock option activity during the three years ended December 31, 2006, is provided in the following table:
The weighted average remaining contractual life on all options outstanding is 3.7 years. 578,110 of share options had exercise prices between $9.63 and $10.88, 527,296 of share options had exercise prices between $11.15 and $12.23, and 193,984 of share options had exercise prices between $13.94 and $15.38.
As of December 31, 2006 and 2005, stock-based awards for 2,286,091 and 2,583,586 shares of common stock, respectively, were available for future grants under the 1999 LTIP’s existing authorization.
10.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
Real Estate Under Development
UDR is committed to completing its wholly owned real estate currently under development, which has an estimated cost to complete of $52.6 million as of December 31, 2006.
UDR is committed to completing its development joint venture projects, which have an estimated cost to complete of $235.5 million at December 31, 2006.
UDR has entered into three contracts to purchase apartment communities upon their development completion. Provided that the developer meets certain conditions, UDR will purchase these communities for approximately $105.0 million.
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Land and Other Leases
UDR is party to several ground leases relating to operating communities. In addition, UDR is party to various other operating leases related to the operation of its regional offices and equipment. Future minimum lease payments for non-cancelable land and other leases as of December 31, 2006 are as follows (dollars in thousands):
UDR incurred $2.8 million, $2.4 million and $1.9 million of rent expense for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005, and 2004.
Contingencies
Series C Out-Performance Program
In May 2005, the stockholders of UDR approved a new Out-Performance Program and the first series of new Out-Performance Partnership Shares under the program are the Series C Out-Performance Units (the “Series C Program”) pursuant to which certain executive officers and other key employees of UDR (the “Series C Participants”) were given the opportunity to purchase interests in UDR Out-Performance III, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “Series C LLC”), the only asset of which is a special class of partnership units of the Operating Partnership (“Series C Out-Performance Partnership Shares” or “Series C OPPSs”) . The purchase price for the Series C OPPSs was determined by the Compensation Committee of UDR’s board of directors to be $750,000, assuming 100% participation, and was based upon the advice of an independent valuation expert. UDR’s performance for the Series C Program will be measured over the 36-month period from June 1, 2005 to May 30, 2008.
The Series C Program is designed to provide participants with the possibility of substantial returns on their investment if the cumulative total return on UDR’s common stock, as measured by the cumulative amount of dividends paid plus share price appreciation during the measurement period is at least the equivalent of a 36% total return, or 12% annualized (“Minimum Return”).
At the conclusion of the measurement period, if UDR’s cumulative total return satisfies these criteria, the Series C LLC as holder of the Series C OPPSs will receive (for the indirect benefit of the Series C Participants as holders of interests in the Series C LLC) distributions and allocations of income and loss from the Operating Partnership equal to the distributions and allocations that would be received on the number of OP Units obtained by:
i. determining the amount by which the cumulative total return of UDR’s common stock over the measurement period exceeds the Minimum Return (such excess being the “Excess Return”);
ii. multiplying 2% of the Excess Return by UDR’s market capitalization (defined as the average number of shares outstanding over the 36-month period, including common stock, common stock equivalents and OP Units); and
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iii. dividing the number obtained in clause (ii) by the market value of one share of UDR’s common stock on the valuation date, computed as the volume-weighted average price per day of common stock for the 20 trading days immediately preceding the valuation date.
For the Series C OPPSs, the number determined pursuant to (ii) above is capped at 1% of market capitalization.
If, on the valuation date, the cumulative total return of UDR’s common stock does not meet the Minimum Return, then the Series C Participants will forfeit their entire initial investment.
Based on the results through December 31, 2006, 313,145 Series C OPPSs would have been issued had the Program terminated on that date. However, since the ultimate determination of Series C OPPSs to be issued will not occur until May 30, 2008, and the number of Series C OPPSs is determinable only upon future events, the financial statements do not reflect any impact for these events. Accordingly, the contingently issuable Series C OPPSs will only be included in basic earnings per share after the measurement period has ended and the applicable hurdle has been met. Furthermore, the Series C OPPSs will only be included in common stock and common stock equivalents in the calculation of diluted earnings per share after the measurement period has ended and the hurdle has been met at the end of the reporting period (if any), assuming the measurement period ended at the end of the reporting period.
Series D Out-Performance Program
In February 2006, the board of directors of UDR approved the Series D Out-Performance Program (the “Series D Program”) pursuant to which certain executive officers and other key employees of UDR (the “Series D Participants”) were given the opportunity to purchase interests in UDR Out-Performance IV, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “Series D LLC”), the only asset of which is a special class of partnership units of the Operating Partnership (“Series D Out-Performance Partnership Shares” or “Series D OPPSs”) . The Series D Program is part of the New Out-Performance Program approved by UDR’s stockholders in May 2005. The Series D LLC has agreed to sell 830,000 membership units to members of UDR’s senior management at a price of $1.00 per unit. The aggregate purchase price of $830,000 for the Series D OPPSs, assuming 100% participation, is based upon the advice of an independent valuation expert. The Series D Program will measure the cumulative total return on our common stock over the 36-month period beginning January 1, 2006 and ending December 31, 2008.
The Series D Program is designed to provide participants with the possibility of substantial returns on their investment if the cumulative total return on UDR’s common stock, as measured by the cumulative amount of dividends paid plus share price appreciation during the measurement period is at least the equivalent of a 36% total return, or 12% annualized (“Minimum Return”).
At the conclusion of the measurement period, if UDR’s cumulative total return satisfies these criteria, the Series D LLC as holder of the Series D OPPSs will receive (for the indirect benefit of the Series D Participants as holders of interests in the Series D LLC) distributions and allocations of income and loss from the Operating Partnership equal to the distributions and allocations that would be received on the number of OP Units obtained by:
i. determining the amount by which the cumulative total return of UDR’s common stock over the measurement period exceeds the Minimum Return (such excess being the “Excess Return”);
ii. multiplying 2% of the Excess Return by UDR’s market capitalization (defined as the average number of shares outstanding over the 36-month period, including common stock, OP Units, common stock equivalents and OP Units); and
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iii. dividing the number obtained in (ii) by the market value of one share of UDR’s common stock on the valuation date, computed as the volume-weighted average price per day of the common stock for the 20 trading days immediately preceding the valuation date.
For the Series D OPPSs, the number determined pursuant to clause (ii) above is capped at 1% of market capitalization.
If, on the valuation date, the cumulative total return of UDR’s common stock does not meet the Minimum Return, then the Series D Participants will forfeit their entire initial investment.
Based on the results through December 31, 2006, 75,869 Series D OPPSs would have been issued had the Program terminated on that date. However, since the ultimate determination of Series D OPPSs to be issued will not occur until December 31, 2008, and the number of Series D OPPSs is determinable only upon future events, the financial statements do not reflect any impact for these events. Accordingly, the contingently issuable Series D OPPSs will only be included in basic earnings per share after the measurement period has ended and the applicable hurdle has been met. Furthermore, the Series D OPPSs will only be included in common stock and common stock equivalents in the calculation of diluted earnings per share after the measurement period has ended and the hurdle has been met at the end of the reporting period (if any), assuming the measurement period ended at the end of the reporting period.
Litigation and Legal Matters
UDR is subject to various legal proceedings and claims arising in the ordinary course of business. UDR cannot determine the ultimate liability with respect to such legal proceedings and claims at this time. UDR believes that such liability, to the extent not provided for through insurance or otherwise, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flow.
11.
INDUSTRY SEGMENTS
UDR owns and operates multifamily apartment communities throughout the United States that generate rental and other property related income through the leasing of apartment homes to a diverse base of tenants. UDR separately evaluates the performance of each of its apartment communities. However, because each of the apartment communities has similar economic characteristics, facilities, services, and tenants, the apartment communities have been aggregated into a single apartment communities segment. All segment disclosure is included in or can be derived from UDR’s consolidated financial statements.
There are no tenants that contributed 10% or more of UDR’s total revenues during 2006, 2005, or 2004.
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12.
UNAUDITED SUMMARIZED CONSOLIDATED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA
Summarized consolidated quarterly financial data for the year ended December 31, 2006, with restated amounts that reflect discontinued operations as of December 31, 2006, is as follows (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts):
(a)
Represents rental income from continuing operations.
Summarized consolidated quarterly financial data for the year ended December 31, 2005, with restated amounts that reflect discontinued operations as of December 31, 2006, is as follows (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts):
(a)
Represents rental income from continuing operations.
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SCHEDULE III - REAL ESTATE OWNED
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2006
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(A)
The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes was approximately $5.3 billion at December 31, 2006.
(B)
The depreciable life for all buildings is 35 years.
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3-YEAR ROLLFORWARD OF REAL ESTATE OWNED AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION
The following is a reconciliation of the carrying amount of total real estate owned at December 31:
The following is a reconciliation of total accumulated depreciation for real estate owned at December 31:
EXHIBIT INDEX
The exhibits listed below are filed as part of this Report. References under the caption “Location” to exhibits or other filings indicate that the exhibit or other filing has been filed, that the indexed exhibit and the exhibit referred to are the same and that the exhibit referred to is incorporated by reference. Management contracts and compensatory plans or arrangements filed as exhibits to this Report are identified by an asterisk. The Commission file number for our Exchange Act filings referenced below is 1-10524.