File No. 001-41322
As filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 22, 2022.
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
Amendment No. 1
to
FORM 10
GENERAL FORM FOR REGISTRATION OF SECURITIES
PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Bluerock Homes
Trust, Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
| Maryland (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
874211187 (I.R.S. employer Identification No.) |
| 1345 Avenue of the Americas, 32nd Floor New York, NY (Address of principal executive offices) |
10105 (Zip Code) |
(212) 843-1601
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
With copies to:
| David E. Shapiro, Esq. Victor Goldfeld, Esq. Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz 51 West 52nd Street New York, New York 10019 (212) 403-1000 |
Richard P. Cunningham, Jr., Esq. Kathryn A. Lawrence, Esq. KVCF, PLC 1401 East Cary Street Richmond, Virginia 23219 (804) 823-4000 |
Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of each class to be so registered | Name of each exchange on which each class is to be registered | |
| Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share | New York Stock Exchange American |
Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. (Check one):
| Large accelerated filer | ¨ | Accelerated filer | ¨ | |
| Non-accelerated filer | ¨ | Smaller reporting company | ¨ | |
| (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | ||||
| Emerging growth company | x | |||
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN REGISTRATION STATEMENT
CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET BETWEEN INFORMATION
STATEMENT
AND ITEMS OF FORM 10
Certain information required to be included herein is incorporated by reference to specifically identified portions of the body of the information statement filed herewith as Exhibit 99.1. None of the information contained in the information statement shall be incorporated by reference herein or deemed to be a part hereof unless such information is specifically incorporated by reference herein.
| Item 1. | Business. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Information Statement Summary,” “Risk Factors,” “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements,” “The Separation and the Distribution,” “Capitalization,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Business and Properties,” “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions,” “Description of Material Indebtedness,” “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences” and “Where You Can Find More Information.” Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 1A. | Risk Factors. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors.” Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 2. | Financial Information. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Capitalization,” “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Index to Financial Statements” and the statements referenced therein. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 3. | Properties. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Information Statement Summary,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Business and Properties.” Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 4. | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.” That section is incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 5. | Directors and Executive Officers. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Management” and “Our Manager and Management Agreement.” Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 6. | Executive Compensation. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Our Manager and Management Agreement” and “Management.” Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 7. | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Our Manager and Management Agreement,” “Management” and “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions.” Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 8. | Legal Proceedings. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled “Business and Properties — Legal Proceedings.” That section is incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 9. | Market Price of and Dividends on the Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “The Separation and the Distribution,” “Dividend Policy,” “Capitalization,” “Management,” “Description of Our Capital Stock” and “Shares Eligible for Future Sale.” Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 10. | Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Description of Our Capital Stock.” That section is incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 11. | Description of Registrant’s Securities to be Registered. |
The information required by this item is contained under the sections of the information statement entitled “Dividend Policy,” “The Separation and the Distribution,” “Description of Our Capital Stock” and “Shares Eligible for Future Sale.” Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 12. | Indemnification of Directors and Officers. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled “Description of Our Capital Stock — Indemnification and Limitation of Directors’ and Officers’ Liability.” That section is incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 13. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements” and “Index to Financial Statements” and the financial statements referenced therein. Those sections are incorporated herein by reference.
| Item 14. | Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. |
None.
| Item 15. | Financial Statements and Exhibits. |
| (a) | Financial Statements |
The information required by this item is contained under the section of the information statement entitled “Index to Financial Statements” and the financial statements referenced therein. That section is incorporated herein by reference.
| (b) | Exhibits |
See below.
The following documents are filed as exhibits hereto:
| Exhibit Number |
Exhibit Description | |
| 2.1 | Form of Separation and Distribution Agreement, by and between Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. and Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.* | |
| 2.2 | Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of December 20, 2021, by and among Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc., Badger Parent LLC and Badger Merger Sub LLC, incorporated by reference to Bluerock Residential Growth REIT Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 21, 2021 | |
| 3.1 | Form of Second Articles of Amendment and Restatement of Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.* | |
| 3.2 | Form of Amended and Restated Bylaws of Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. | |
| 10.1 | Form of Tax Matters Agreement by and between Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. and Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.* | |
| 10.2 | Form of Management Agreement by and among Bluerock Homes Manager, LLC, Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. and Bluerock Residential Holdings, L.P.* | |
| 10.3 | Form of Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Bluerock Residential Holdings, L.P.* | |
| 10.4 | Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. 2022 Equity Incentive Plan for Individuals.* | |
| 10.5 | Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. 2022 Equity Incentive Plan for Entities.* | |
| 10.6 | Form of Indemnification Agreement to be entered into between Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. and each of its directors and executive officers.* | |
| 10.7 | Loan Agreement, dated April 6, 2022, by and among persons that are party thereto listed as Borrowers, persons party thereto that are listed as Equity Owners, Bluerock Residential Holdings, L.P., persons that are party thereto listed as Lenders, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Deutsche Bank AG, New York Branch and Computershare Trust Company, N.A. | |
| 21.1 | Subsidiaries of Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.* | |
| 99.1 | Information Statement of Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc., preliminary and subject to completion, dated April 22, 2022. |
* To be filed by amendment.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. | ||
| By: | /s/ R. Ramin Kamfar | |
| Name: R. Ramin Kamfar | ||
| Title: Chief Executive Officer and President | ||
Date: April 22, 2022
Exhibit 3.2
BLUEROCK HOMES TRUST, INC.
AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS
Article I
OFFICES
Section 1. PRINCIPAL OFFICE. The principal office of Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. (the “Corporation”) in the State of Maryland shall be located at such place as the Board of Directors may designate.
Section 2. ADDITIONAL OFFICES. The Corporation may have additional offices, including a principal executive office, at such places as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or the business of the Corporation may require.
Article II
MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS
Section 1. PLACE. All meetings of stockholders shall be held at the principal executive office of the Corporation or at such other place, if any, as shall be set in accordance with these Bylaws and stated in the notice of the meeting.
Section 2. ANNUAL MEETING. An annual meeting of stockholders for the election of directors and the transaction of any business within the powers of the Corporation shall be held on the date and at the time and place, if any, set by the Board of Directors. Failure to hold an annual meeting shall not invalidate the Corporation’s existence or affect any otherwise valid acts of the Corporation. The Corporation may, at any time prior to the holding of an annual meeting of stockholders, and for any reason, postpone, reschedule or cancel any annual meeting of stockholders.
Section 3. SPECIAL MEETINGS.
(a) General. Each of the chairman of the Board of Directors, chief executive officer, president and Board of Directors may call a special meeting of stockholders. Except as provided in subsection (b)(4) of this Section 3, a special meeting of stockholders shall be held on the date and at the time and place set by the chairman of the Board of Directors, chief executive officer, president or Board of Directors, whoever has called the meeting. Subject to subsection (b) of this Section 3, a special meeting of stockholders shall also be called by the secretary of the Corporation to act on any matter that may properly be considered at a meeting of stockholders upon receipt of a Special Meeting Request (as defined below) delivered by stockholders entitled to cast not less than a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on such matter at such meeting (the “Special Meeting Percentage”).
(b) Stockholder-Requested Special Meetings. (1) Any stockholder of record seeking to have stockholders request a special meeting shall, by sending written notice to the secretary (the “Record Date Request Notice”) by registered mail, return receipt requested, request the Board of Directors to fix a record date to determine the stockholders entitled to request a special meeting (the “Request Record Date”). The Record Date Request Notice shall set forth the purpose of the meeting and the matters proposed to be acted on at it, shall be signed by one or more stockholders of record as of the date of signature (or their agents duly authorized in a writing accompanying the Record Date Request Notice), shall bear the date of signature of each such stockholder (or such agent) and shall set forth all information relating to each Special Meeting Proponent (as defined below), each individual, if any, whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election or reelection as a director and each matter, if any, proposed to be acted on at the meeting that would be required to be disclosed in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of directors or the election of each such individual, as applicable, in an election contest (even if an election contest is not involved), or would otherwise be required in connection with such a solicitation, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A (or any successor provision) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder (the “Exchange Act”) and such Record Date Request Notice shall include any other information required to be disclosed pursuant to Section 3(b)(2) of this Article II. Upon receiving the Record Date Request Notice, the Board of Directors may fix a Request Record Date. The Request Record Date shall not precede and shall not be more than ten days after the close of business on the date on which the resolution fixing the Request Record Date is adopted by the Board of Directors. If the Board of Directors, within ten days after the date on which a valid Record Date Request Notice is received, fails to adopt a resolution fixing the Request Record Date, the Request Record Date shall be the close of business on the tenth day after the first date on which a Record Date Request Notice is received by the secretary.
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(2) To request a special meeting to act on any matter that may properly be considered at a meeting of stockholders, one or more written requests for a special meeting (collectively, the “Special Meeting Request”) signed by stockholders of record (or their agents duly authorized in a writing accompanying the request) as of the Request Record Date entitled to cast not less than the “Special Meeting Percentage shall be delivered to the secretary. In addition, the Special Meeting Request shall (a) set forth the purpose of the meeting and the matters proposed to be acted on at it (which shall be limited to those lawful matters set forth in the Record Date Request Notice received by the secretary), (b) bear the date of signature of each such stockholder (or such agent) signing the Special Meeting Request, (c) set forth (i) the name and address, as they appear in the Corporation’s books, of each Special Meeting Proponent, (ii) (A) the class, series, if any, and number of all shares of stock of the Corporation which are, directly or indirectly, owned (beneficially or of record) by each such Special Meeting Proponent, (B) any option, warrant, convertible security, stock appreciation right, instrument, or derivative or synthetic arrangement having the characteristics of a long position in any class or series of stock of the Corporation, or any contract, derivative, swap or other transaction or series of transactions designed to produce economic benefits and risks that correspond substantially to the ownership of any class or series of stock of the Corporation, including due to the fact that the value of such contract, derivative, swap or other transaction or series of transactions is determined by reference to the price, value or volatility of any class or series of stock of the Corporation, whether or not such instrument, contract or right shall be subject to settlement in the underlying class or series of stock of the Corporation, through the delivery of cash or other property, or otherwise, and without regard to whether the stockholder of record, the beneficial owner, if any, or any affiliates or associates or others acting in concert therewith, may have entered into transactions that hedge or mitigate the economic effect of such instrument, contract or right, or any other direct or indirect opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any increase or decrease in the value of stock of the Corporation (a “Derivative Instrument”), directly or indirectly, owned beneficially by such Special Meeting Proponent and any other direct or indirect opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any increase or decrease in the value of stock of the Corporation, (C) a description of any proxy, contract, arrangement, understanding or relationship pursuant to which such Special Meeting Proponent has a right to vote any shares of stock or other security of the Corporation, (D) any Short Interest in any security of the Corporation (for purposes of these Bylaws a person shall be deemed to have a “Short Interest” in a security if such person, directly or indirectly, through any proxy, contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, has the opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any decreased in the value of the subject security or such proxy, contract, arrangement, understanding or relationship held by such person has the purpose or effect of mitigating loss to, reducing the economic risk (of ownership or otherwise) of any class or series of stock of the Corporation by, managing the risk of share price changes for, or increasing or decreasing the voting power of, such Special Meeting Proponent with respect to any class or series of stock of the Corporation), (E) any rights to dividends on the stock of the Corporation owned beneficially by such Special Meeting Proponent that are separated or separable from the underlying stock of the Corporation, (F) any proportionate interest in stock of the Corporation or Derivative Instruments held, directly or indirectly, by a general or limited partnership in which such Special Meeting Proponent is a general partner or, directly or indirectly, beneficially owns an interest in a general partner, (G) any significant equity interests or any Derivative Instruments or Short Interests in any principal competitor of the Corporation held by such Special Meeting Proponent, (H) any direct or indirect interest of such Special Meeting Proponent in any contract with the Corporation, any affiliate of the Corporation or any principal competitor of the Corporation (including, in any such case, any employment agreement, collective bargaining agreement or consulting agreement), (I) all information that would be required to be set forth in a Schedule 13D filed pursuant to Rule 13d-1(a) or an amendment pursuant to Rule 13d-2(a) if such a statement were required to be filed under the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder by such Special Meeting Proponent, if any, (J) any performance-related fees (other than an asset-based fee) that such Special Meeting Proponent is entitled to based on any increase or decrease in the value of stock of the Corporation or Derivative Instruments, if any, including, without limitation, any such interests held by members of such Special Meeting Proponent’s immediate family sharing the same household (which information shall be supplemented by such Special Meeting Proponent not later than ten days after the Meeting Record Date, if any, to disclose such ownership as of the Meeting Record Date), and (K) any other information relating to such Special Meeting Proponent, if any, that would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement and form of proxy or other filings required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies for, as applicable, the proposal and/or for the election of directors in a contested election pursuant to Section 14 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, and (iii) the nominee holder for, and number of, shares of stock of the Corporation owned beneficially but not of record by such stockholder, (d) be sent to the secretary by registered mail, return receipt requested, and (e) be received by the secretary within 60 days after the Request Record Date. Any Special Meeting Proponent must notify the Corporation by sending written notice to the secretary by registered mail each time the Special Meeting Proponent’s stock ownership decreases after delivering the Special Meeting Notice. Any stockholder (or agent duly authorized in a writing accompanying the revocation of the Special Meeting Request) may revoke his, her or its request for a special meeting at any time by written revocation delivered to the secretary.
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(3) If information submitted pursuant to this Section 3(b) by any stockholder proposing seeking to have stockholders request a special meeting shall be inaccurate in any material respect, such information shall be deemed not to have been provided in accordance with this Section 3(b). Any such stockholder shall notify the Corporation of any inaccuracy or change (within two Business Days of becoming aware of such inaccuracy or change) in any such information. Upon written request by the secretary or the Board of Directors, any such stockholder shall provide, within five Business Days of delivery of such request (or such other period as may be specified in such request), (A) written verification, satisfactory, in the discretion of the Board of Directors or any authorized officer of the Corporation, to demonstrate the accuracy of any information submitted by the stockholder pursuant to this Section 3(b), and (B) a written update of any information (including, if requested by the Corporation, written confirmation by such stockholder that it continues to seek to have stockholders request a special meeting) submitted by the stockholder pursuant to this Section 3(b) as of an earlier date. If a stockholder fails to provide such written verification or written update within such period, the information as to which written verification or a written update was requested shall be deemed not to have been provided in accordance with this Section 3(b).
(4) The secretary shall inform the requesting stockholders of the reasonably estimated cost of preparing and mailing or delivering the notice of the meeting (including the Corporation’s proxy materials). The secretary shall not be required to call a special meeting upon stockholder request and such meeting shall not be held unless, in addition to the documents required by paragraphs (1) and (2) of this Section 3(b), the secretary receives payment of such reasonably estimated cost prior to the preparation and mailing or delivery of such notice of the meeting.
(5) In the case of any special meeting called by the secretary upon the request of stockholders (a “Stockholder-Requested Meeting”), such meeting shall be held at such place, if any, date and time as may be designated by the Board of Directors; provided, however, that the date of any Stockholder-Requested Meeting shall be not more than 90 days after the record date for such meeting (the “Meeting Record Date”); and provided further that if the Board of Directors fails to designate, within ten days after the date that a valid Special Meeting Request is actually received by the secretary (the “Delivery Date”), a date and time for a Stockholder-Requested Meeting, then such meeting shall be held at 2:00 p.m., local time, on the 90th day after the Meeting Record Date or, if such 90th day is not a Business Day (as defined below), on the first preceding Business Day; and provided further that in the event that the Board of Directors fails to designate a place, if any, for a Stockholder-Requested Meeting within ten days after the Delivery Date, then such meeting shall be held at the principal executive office of the Corporation. In fixing a date for a Stockholder-Requested Meeting, the Board of Directors may consider such factors as it deems relevant, including, without limitation, the nature of the matters to be considered, the facts and circumstances surrounding any request for the meeting and any plan of the Board of Directors to call an annual meeting or a special meeting. In the case of any Stockholder-Requested Meeting, if the Board of Directors fails to fix a Meeting Record Date that is a date within 30 days after the Delivery Date, then the close of business on the 30th day after the Delivery Date shall be the Meeting Record Date. The Board of Directors may revoke the notice for any Stockholder-Requested Meeting in the event that the requesting stockholders fail to comply with the provisions of paragraph (3) of this Section 3(b).
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(6) If written revocations of the Special Meeting Request have been delivered to the secretary and the result is that stockholders of record (or their agents duly authorized in writing), as of the Request Record Date, entitled to cast less than the Special Meeting Percentage have delivered, and not revoked, requests for a special meeting on the matter to the secretary: (i) if the notice of meeting has not already been delivered, the secretary shall refrain from delivering the notice of the meeting and send to all requesting stockholders who have not revoked such requests written notice of any revocation of a request for a special meeting on the matter, or (ii) if the notice of meeting has been delivered and if the secretary first sends to all requesting stockholders who have not revoked requests for a special meeting on the matter written notice of any revocation of a request for the special meeting and written notice of the Corporation’s intention to revoke the notice of the meeting or for the chairman of the meeting to adjourn the meeting without action on the matter, (A) the secretary may revoke the notice of the meeting at any time before ten days before the commencement of the meeting or (B) the chairman of the meeting may call the meeting to order and adjourn the meeting from time to time without acting on the matter. Any request for a special meeting received after a revocation by the secretary of a notice of a meeting shall be considered a request for a new special meeting.
(7) The chairman of the Board of Directors, chief executive officer, president or Board of Directors may appoint regionally or nationally recognized independent inspectors of elections to act as the agent of the Corporation for the purpose of promptly performing a ministerial review of the validity of any purported Special Meeting Request received by the secretary. For the purpose of permitting the inspectors to perform such review, no such purported Special Meeting Request shall be deemed to have been received by the secretary until the earlier of (i) five Business Days after actual receipt by the secretary of such purported request and (ii) such date as the independent inspectors certify to the Corporation that the valid requests received by the secretary represent, as of the Request Record Date, stockholders of record entitled to cast not less than the Special Meeting Percentage. Nothing contained in this paragraph (6) shall in any way be construed to suggest or imply that the Corporation or any stockholder shall not be entitled to contest the validity of any request, whether during or after such five Business Day period, or to take any other action (including, without limitation, the commencement, prosecution or defense of any litigation with respect thereto, and the seeking of injunctive relief in such litigation).
(8) For purposes of these Bylaws, “Business Day” shall mean any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday or a day on which banking institutions in New York City are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close.
(9) For purposes of these Bylaws, “Special Meeting Proponent” shall mean (a) the stockholder providing the Record Date Request Notice or Special Meeting Request, as applicable, (b) the beneficial owner or beneficial owners, if different, on whose behalf the Record Date Request Notice or Special Meeting Request, as applicable, is made, (c) any affiliate or associate (each within the meaning of Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act for purposes of these Bylaws) of each such stockholder or beneficial owner and (d) any other person with whom such stockholder or beneficial owner (or any of their respective affiliates or associates) is acting in concert.
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Section 4. NOTICE. Not less than ten nor more than 90 days before each meeting of stockholders, the secretary shall give to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting and to each stockholder not entitled to vote who is entitled to notice of the meeting notice in writing or by electronic transmission stating the time and place, if any, of the meeting and, in the case of a special meeting or as otherwise may be required by any statute, the purpose for which the meeting is called, by mail, by presenting it to such stockholder personally, by leaving it at the stockholder’s residence or usual place of business, by electronic transmission or by any other means permitted by Maryland law. If mailed, such notice shall be deemed to be given when deposited in the United States mail addressed to the stockholder at the stockholder’s address as it appears on the records of the Corporation, with postage thereon prepaid. If transmitted electronically, such notice shall be deemed to be given when transmitted to the stockholder by an electronic transmission to any address or number of the stockholder at which the stockholder receives electronic transmissions. The Corporation may give a single notice to all stockholders who share an address, which single notice shall be effective as to any stockholder at such address, unless such stockholder objects to receiving such single notice or revokes a prior consent to receiving such single notice. Failure to give notice of any meeting to one or more stockholders, or any irregularity in such notice, shall not affect the validity of any meeting fixed in accordance with this Article II or the validity of any proceedings at any such meeting.
Subject to Section 11(a) of this Article II, any business of the Corporation may be transacted at an annual meeting of stockholders without being specifically designated in the notice, except such business as is required by any statute or these Bylaws to be stated in such notice. No business shall be transacted at a special meeting of stockholders except as specifically designated in the notice for such special meeting. The Corporation may, at any time prior to the holding of any special meeting of stockholders, and for any reason, postpone, reschedule or cancel any special meeting of stockholders.
Section 5. ORGANIZATION AND CONDUCT. Every meeting of stockholders shall be conducted by an individual appointed by the Board of Directors to be chairman of the meeting or, in the absence of such appointment or appointed individual, by the chairman of the Board of Directors or, in the case of a vacancy in the office or absence of the chairman of the Board of Directors, by one of the following individuals present at the meeting in the following order: the lead independent director, if there is one, the chief executive officer, the president, the vice presidents in their order of rank and, within each rank, in their order of seniority, or the secretary. The secretary or, in the secretary’s absence, an assistant secretary or, in the absence of both the secretary and all assistant secretaries, an individual appointed by the Board of Directors or the chairman of the meeting shall act as secretary. In the event that the secretary presides at a meeting of stockholders, an assistant secretary or, in the absence of all assistant secretaries, an individual appointed by the Board of Directors or the chairman of the meeting, shall record the minutes of the meeting. Even if present at the meeting, the individual holding the position named herein may delegate to another individual the power to act as chairman or secretary of the meeting. The order of business and all other matters of procedure at any meeting of stockholders shall be determined by the chairman of the meeting. The chairman of the meeting may prescribe such rules, regulations and procedures and take such action as, in the discretion of the chairman and without any action by the stockholders, are appropriate for the proper conduct of the meeting, including, without limitation, (a) restricting admission to the time set for the commencement of the meeting; (b) limiting attendance or participation at the meeting to stockholders of record of the Corporation, their duly authorized proxies and such other individuals as the chairman of the meeting may determine; (c) recognizing speakers at the meeting and determining when and for how long speakers and any individual speaker may address the meeting; (d) determining when and for how long the polls should be opened and when the polls should be closed and when announcement of the results should be made; (e) maintaining order and security at the meeting; (f) removing any stockholder or any other individual who refuses to comply with meeting procedures, rules or guidelines as set forth by the chairman of the meeting; (g) concluding a meeting or recessing or adjourning the meeting, whether or not a quorum is present, to a later date and time and at a place, if any, announced at the meeting; (h) complying with any state and local laws and regulations concerning safety and security; and (i) restricting the use of audio or video recording devices at the meeting. Unless otherwise determined by the chairman of the meeting, meetings of stockholders shall not be required to be held in accordance with any rules of parliamentary procedure.
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Section 6. QUORUM. At any meeting of stockholders, the presence in person or by proxy of stockholders entitled to cast a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast at such meeting on any matter shall constitute a quorum (and for the avoidance of doubt, abstentions and broker non- votes shall be treated as present for purposes of determining the presence or absence of a quorum); but this section shall not affect any requirement under any statute or the charter of the Corporation (the “Charter”) for the vote necessary for the approval of any matter. The chairman of the meeting may adjourn or recess the meeting from time to time and for any reason, to a date not more than 120 days after the original record date without notice other than announcement at the meeting, whether or not there is a quorum. At any such adjourned or recessed meeting at which a quorum shall be present, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally notified.
The stockholders present either in person or by proxy, at a meeting which has been duly called and at which a quorum has been established, may continue to transact business until adjournment or recess, notwithstanding the withdrawal from the meeting of enough stockholders to leave fewer than would be required to establish a quorum.
Section 7. VOTING. The affirmative vote of a plurality of all the votes cast at a meeting of stockholders duly called and at which a quorum is present shall be sufficient to elect a director. Each share entitles the holder thereof to vote for as many individuals as there are directors to be elected and for whose election the holder is entitled to vote, without any right to cumulative votes. A majority of the votes cast at a meeting of stockholders duly called and at which a quorum is present shall be sufficient to approve any other matter which may properly come before the meeting, unless more than a majority of the votes cast is required by statute or by the Charter. Unless otherwise provided by statute or by the Charter, each outstanding share of stock, regardless of class, entitles the holder thereof to cast one vote on each matter submitted to a vote at a meeting of stockholders. Voting on any question or in any election may be viva voce unless the chairman of the meeting shall order that voting be by ballot or otherwise.
Section 8. PROXIES. A holder of record of shares of stock of the Corporation may cast votes in person or by proxy executed by the stockholder or by the stockholder’s duly authorized agent in any manner permitted by applicable law. Such proxy or evidence of authorization of such proxy shall be filed with the record of the proceedings of the meeting. No proxy shall be valid more than eleven months after its date unless otherwise provided in the proxy.
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Section 9. VOTING OF STOCK BY CERTAIN HOLDERS. Stock of the Corporation registered in the name of a corporation, limited liability company, partnership, trust, joint venture or other entity, if entitled to be voted, may be voted by the president or a vice president, managing member, member, general partner or trustee thereof, as the case may be, or a proxy appointed by any of the foregoing individuals, unless some other person who has been appointed to vote such stock pursuant to a bylaw or a resolution of the governing body of such corporation or other entity or agreement of the partners of a partnership presents a certified copy of such bylaw, resolution or agreement, in which case such person may vote such stock. Any trustee or fiduciary, in such capacity, may vote stock registered in such trustee’s or fiduciary’s name, either in person or by proxy.
Shares of stock of the Corporation directly or indirectly owned by it shall not be voted at any meeting and shall not be counted in determining the total number of outstanding shares entitled to be voted at any given time, unless they are held by it in a fiduciary capacity, in which case they may be voted and shall be counted in determining the total number of outstanding shares at any given time.
The Board of Directors may adopt by resolution a procedure by which a stockholder may certify in writing to the Corporation that any shares of stock registered in the name of the stockholder are held for the account of a specified person other than the stockholder. The resolution shall set forth the class of stockholders who may make the certification, the purpose for which the certification may be made, the form of certification and the information to be contained in it; if the certification is with respect to a record date, the time after the record date within which the certification must be received by the Corporation; and any other provisions with respect to the procedure which the Board of Directors considers necessary or appropriate. Upon receipt by the secretary of the Corporation of such certification, the person specified in the certification shall be regarded as, for the purposes set forth in the certification, the holder of record of the specified stock in place of the stockholder who makes the certification.
Section 10. INSPECTORS. The Board of Directors or the chairman of the meeting may appoint, before or at the meeting, one or more inspectors for the meeting and any successor to the inspector. Each inspector, before discharging his, her or its duties, shall take and sign an oath faithfully to execute the duties of inspector with strict impartiality and according to the best of his, her or its ability. Except as otherwise provided by the chairman of the meeting, the inspectors, if any, shall (a) determine the number of shares of stock represented at the meeting, in person or by proxy, and the validity and effect of proxies, (b) receive and tabulate all votes, ballots or consents, (c) report such tabulation to the chairman of the meeting, (d) hear and determine all challenges and questions arising in connection with the right to vote, and (e) do such acts as are proper to fairly conduct the election or vote. Each such report shall be in writing and signed by the inspector or by a majority of them if there is more than one inspector acting at such meeting. If there is more than one inspector, the report of a majority shall be the report of the inspectors. The report of the inspector or inspectors on the number of shares represented at the meeting and the results of the voting shall be prima facie evidence thereof.
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Section 11. ADVANCE NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDER NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR AND OTHER STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS.
(a) Annual Meetings of Stockholders. (1) Nominations of individuals for election to the Board of Directors and the proposal of other business to be considered by the stockholders may be made at an annual meeting of stockholders (i) pursuant to the Corporation’s notice of meeting, (ii) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors or (iii) by any stockholder of the Corporation who was a stockholder of record at the record date set by the Board of Directors for the purpose of determining stockholders entitled to vote at the annual meeting, at the time of giving of notice by the stockholder as provided for in this Section 11(a) and at the time of the annual meeting (and any postponement or adjournment thereof), who is entitled to vote at the meeting in the election of each individual so nominated or on any such other business and who has complied with this Section 11(a).
(2) For any nomination or other business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder pursuant to clause (iii) of paragraph (a)(1) of this Section 11, the stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to the secretary of the Corporation and any such other business must otherwise be a proper matter for action by the stockholders. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice shall set forth all information required under this Section 11 and shall be delivered to the secretary at the principal executive office of the Corporation not earlier than the 150th day nor later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the 120th day prior to the first anniversary of the date of the proxy statement (as defined in Section 11(c)(3) of this Article II) for the preceding year’s annual meeting; provided, however, that in connection with the Corporation’s first annual meeting or in the event that the date of the annual meeting is advanced or delayed by more than 30 days from the first anniversary of the date of the preceding year’s annual meeting, in order for notice by the stockholder to be timely, such notice must be so delivered not earlier than the 150th day prior to the date of such annual meeting and not later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the later of the 120th day prior to the date of such annual meeting, as originally convened, or the tenth day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made. The public announcement of a postponement, rescheduling, cancellation, recess or adjournment of an annual meeting shall not commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholder’s notice as described above.
(3) Such stockholder’s notice shall set forth:
(i) as to each individual, if any, whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election or reelection as a director (each, a “Proposed Nominee”), all information relating to the Proposed Nominee that would be required to be disclosed in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of the Proposed Nominee as a director in an election contest (even if an election contest is not involved), or would otherwise be required in connection with such solicitation, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A (or any successor provision) under the Exchange Act (including the Proposed Nominee’s written consent to being named in the proxy statement as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected);
(ii) as to any other business, if any, that the stockholder proposes to bring before the meeting, a description of such business, the stockholder’s reasons for proposing such business at the meeting and any material interest in such business of the Meeting Proponent (as defined below), individually or in the aggregate, including any anticipated benefit to the Meeting Proponent therefrom;
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(iii) as to the Meeting Proponent and any Proposed Nominee,
(A) (I) the class, series, if any, and number of all shares of stock or other securities of the Corporation or any affiliate thereof (each, a “Company Security” and, collectively, the “Company Securities”), if any, which are, directly or indirectly, owned (beneficially or of record) by each such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee, (II) the date on which each such Company Security was acquired and the investment intent of such acquisition, (III) any Derivative Instrument, directly or indirectly, owned beneficially by such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee and any other direct or indirect opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any increase or decrease in the value of any Company Security, (IV) a description of any proxy, contract, arrangement, understanding or relationship pursuant to which such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee has a right to vote any Company Security, (V) any Short Interest in any Company Securities of any such person, (VI) any rights to dividends on the Company Securities owned beneficially by such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee that are separated or separable from the underlying Company Securities, (VII) any proportionate interest in Company Securities or Derivative Instruments held, directly or indirectly, by a general or limited partnership in which such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee is a general partner or, directly or indirectly, beneficially owns an interest in a general partner, (VIII) any performance-related fees (other than an asset-based fee) to which such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee is entitled based on any increase or decrease in the value of Company Securities or Derivative Instruments, if any, including, without limitation, any such interests held by members of such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee’s immediate family sharing the same household (which information shall be supplemented by such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee not later than ten days after the record date, if any, to disclose such ownership as of the record date) and (IX) any other information required to be disclosed pursuant to Section 3(b)(2) of this Article II,
(B) the nominee holder for, and number of, any Company Securities owned beneficially but not of record by such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee,
(C) whether and the extent to which such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee, directly or indirectly (through brokers, nominees or otherwise), is subject to or during the last six months has engaged in any hedging, derivative or other transaction or series of transactions or entered into any other agreement, arrangement or understanding (including any Short Interest, any borrowing or lending of securities or any proxy or voting agreement), the effect or intent of which is to (I) manage risk or benefit of changes in the price of (x) Company Securities or (y) any security of any entity that was listed in the Peer Group in the Stock Performance Graph in the most recent annual report to security holders of the Corporation (a “Peer Group Company”) for such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee or (II) increase or decrease the voting power of such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee in the Corporation or any affiliate thereof (or, as applicable, in any Peer Group Company) disproportionately to such person’s economic interest in the Company Securities (or, as applicable, in any Peer Group Company),
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(D) any substantial interest, direct or indirect (including, without limitation, any existing or prospective commercial, business or contractual relationship with the Corporation), by security holdings or otherwise, of such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee, in the Corporation or any affiliate thereof, other than an interest arising from the ownership of Company Securities where such Meeting Proponent or Proposed Nominee receives no extra or special benefit not shared on a pro rata basis by all other holders of the same class or series,
(E) the name and address of such Meeting Proponent, as they appear on the Corporation’s stock ledger, and the current name and address, if different, of each such Meeting Proponent and any Proposed Nominee and
(F) the investment strategy or objective, if any, of such Meeting Proponent who is not an individual and a copy of the prospectus, offering memorandum or similar document, if any, provided to investors or potential investors in such Meeting Proponent;
(iv) the name and address of any person who contacted or was contacted by the Meeting Proponent about the Proposed Nominee or other business proposal;
(v) to the extent known by the Meeting Proponent, the name and address of any other stockholder supporting the Proposed Nominee or the proposal of other business; and
(vi) a description of all direct and indirect compensation and other material monetary agreements, arrangements and understandings during the past three years, and any other material relationships, between or among such Meeting Proponent, on the one hand, and each Proposed Nominee, and his or her respective affiliates and associates, or others acting in concert therewith, on the other hand, including, without limitation all information that would be required to be disclosed pursuant to Rule 404 or any successor provision promulgated under Regulation S-K if the Meeting Proponent, were the “registrant” for purposes of such rule and the nominee were a director or executive officer of such registrant.
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(4) Such Meeting Proponent’s notice shall, with respect to any Proposed Nominee, be accompanied by a certificate executed by the Proposed Nominee (i) certifying that such Proposed Nominee (a) is not, and will not become, a party to (x) any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether written or oral) with any person or entity other than the Corporation as to how the Proposed Nominee would vote or act on any issue or question as a director (a “Voting Commitment”), in each case that has not been disclosed to the Corporation or (y) any Voting Commitment that could limit or interfere with such Proposed Nominee’s ability to comply, if elected to serve as a member of the Board of Directors, with such Proposed Nominee’s duties under applicable law, (b) is not and will not become a party to any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether written or oral) with any person or entity other than the Corporation with respect to any direct or indirect compensation, reimbursement or indemnification in connection with service or action as a director of the Corporation that has not been disclosed to the Corporation, (c) would be in compliance, if elected as a director of the Corporation, and will comply with all applicable law and all applicable rules of the U.S. exchanges upon which the common stock of the Corporation is listed and all applicable publicly disclosed corporate governance, conflict of interest, confidentiality and stock ownership and trading policies and other guidelines of the Corporation, (d) will serve as a director of the Corporation if elected and intends to serve a full term if elected, and (e) will provide facts, statements and other information in all communications with the Corporation and its stockholders that are or will be true and correct in all material respects and do not and will not omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading; (ii) attaching a completed Proposed Nominee questionnaire (which questionnaire shall be provided by the Corporation, upon written request by the Meeting Proponent providing the notice, and shall include, among other things, all information relating to the Proposed Nominee that would be required to be disclosed in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of the Proposed Nominee as a director in an election contest (even if an election contest is not involved), or would otherwise be required in connection with such solicitation, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A (or any successor provision) under the Exchange Act and the rules thereunder, or would be required pursuant to the rules of any national securities exchange on which any securities of the Corporation are listed or over-the-counter market on which any securities of the Corporation are traded); and (iii) attaching a written director agreement (which agreement shall be provided by the secretary of the Corporation upon written request).
(5) Notwithstanding anything in this subsection (a) of this Section 11 to the contrary, in the event that the number of directors to be elected to the Board of Directors is increased, and there is no public announcement of such action at least 130 days prior to the first anniversary of the (i) date of the proxy statement (as defined in Section 11(c)(3) of this Article II) for the preceding year’s annual meeting or (ii) solely in the case of the first annual meeting of the Corporation held after adoption of these Bylaws, the date that Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. (“Bluerock Residential”) mailed its proxy statement for the preceding year's annual meeting of Bluerock Residential, a stockholder’s notice required by this Section 11(a) shall also be considered timely, but only with respect to nominees for any new positions created by such increase, if it shall be delivered to the secretary at the principal executive office of the Corporation not later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the tenth day following the day on which such public announcement is first made by the Corporation.
(6) For purposes of these Bylaws, “Meeting Proponent” shall mean (i) the stockholder providing notice pursuant to clause (iii) of paragraph (a)(1) of this Section 11, (ii) the beneficial owner or beneficial owners, if different, on whose behalf the notice is made, (iii) any affiliate or associate (each within the meaning of Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act for purposes of these Bylaws) of each such stockholder or beneficial owner and (iv) any other person which whom such stockholder or beneficial owner (or any of their respective affiliates or associates) is acting in concert.
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(b) Special Meetings of Stockholders. Only such business shall be conducted at a special meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting pursuant to the Corporation’s notice of meeting and, except as contemplated by and in accordance with the next two sentences of this Section 11(b), no stockholder may nominate an individual for election to the Board of Directors or make a proposal of other business to be considered at a special meeting. Nominations of individuals for election to the Board of Directors may be made at a special meeting of stockholders at which directors are to be elected only (i) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors or (ii) provided that the special meeting has been called in accordance with Section 3(a) of this Article II for the purpose of electing directors, by any stockholder of the Corporation who is a stockholder of record at the record date set by the Board of Directors for the purpose of determining stockholders entitled to vote at the special meeting, at the time of giving of notice provided for in this Section 11 and at the time of the special meeting (and any postponement or adjournment thereof), who is entitled to vote at the meeting in the election of each individual so nominated and who has complied with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 11. In the event the Corporation calls a special meeting of stockholders for the purpose of electing one or more individuals to the Board of Directors, any stockholder may nominate an individual or individuals (as the case may be) for election as a director as specified in the Corporation’s notice of meeting, if the stockholder’s notice, containing the information required by paragraphs (a)(3) and (4) of this Section 11, is delivered to the secretary at the principal executive office of the Corporation not earlier than the 120th day prior to such special meeting and not later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the later of the 90th day prior to such special meeting or the tenth day following the day on which public announcement is first made of the date of the special meeting and of the nominees proposed by the Board of Directors to be elected at such meeting. The public announcement of a postponement or adjournment of a special meeting shall not commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholder’s notice as described above.
(c) General. (1) If information submitted pursuant to this Section 11 by any stockholder proposing a nominee for election as a director or any proposal for other business at a meeting of stockholders shall be inaccurate in any material respect, such information may be deemed not to have been provided in accordance with this Section 11. Any such stockholder shall notify the Corporation of any inaccuracy or change (within two Business Days of becoming aware of such inaccuracy or change) in any such information. Upon written request by the secretary or the Board of Directors, any such stockholder shall provide, within five Business Days of delivery of such request (or such other period as may be specified in such request), (A) written verification, satisfactory, in the discretion of the Board of Directors or any authorized officer of the Corporation, to demonstrate the accuracy of any information submitted by the stockholder pursuant to this Section 11, and (B) a written update of any information (including, if requested by the Corporation, written confirmation by such stockholder that it continues to intend to bring such nomination or other business proposal before the meeting) submitted by the stockholder pursuant to this Section 11 as of an earlier date. If a stockholder fails to provide such written verification or written update within such period, the information as to which written verification or a written update was requested may be deemed not to have been provided in accordance with this Section 11.
(2) Only such individuals who are nominated in accordance with this Section 11 shall be eligible for election by stockholders as directors, and only such business shall be conducted at a meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting in accordance with this Section 11. The chairman of the meeting shall have the power to determine whether a nomination or any other business proposed to be brought before the meeting was made or proposed, as the case may be, in accordance with this Section 11, and, if any proposed nomination or other business is not in compliance with this Section 11, to declare that such defective proposal or nomination shall be disregarded. If the nomination of an individual is later determined not to be in accordance with this Section 11 at the time of nomination due to the provision of information that is inaccurate in any material respect, such nominee must tender the nominee’s irrevocable resignation, which shall be signed by the nominee.
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(3) The Corporation may require any proposed nominee for director to furnish such other information as it may reasonably require to determine the eligibility of such proposed nominee to serve as a director of the Corporation. Except as otherwise determined by the chairman of the meeting, if the stockholder (or a qualified representative of the stockholder) making a nomination or proposal under this Section 11 does not appear at a meeting of stockholders to present such nomination or proposal, the nomination shall be disregarded and the proposed business shall not be transacted, as the case may be, notwithstanding that proxies in favor thereof may have been received by the Corporation. For purposes of this Section 11, to be considered a qualified representative of the stockholder, a person must be a duly authorized officer, manager or partner of such stockholder or must be authorized by a writing executed by such stockholder or an electronic transmission delivered by such stockholder to act for such stockholder as proxy at the meeting of stockholders and such person must produce such writing or electronic transmission, or a reliable reproduction of the writing or electronic transmission, at the meeting of stockholders.
(4) For purposes of this Section 11, “the date of the proxy statement” shall have the same meaning as “the date of the company’s proxy statement released to shareholders” as used in Rule 14a-8(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act, as interpreted by the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. “Public announcement” shall mean disclosure (A) in a press release reported by the Dow Jones News Service, Associated Press, Business Wire, PR Newswire or other widely circulated news or wire service or (B) in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Exchange Act.
(5) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 11, a stockholder shall also comply with all applicable requirements of state law and of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder with respect to the matters set forth in this Section 11. Nothing in this Section 11 shall be deemed to affect any right of a stockholder to request inclusion of a proposal in, or the right of the Corporation to omit a proposal from, any proxy statement filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 14a-8 (or any successor provision) under the Exchange Act. Nothing in this Section 11 shall require disclosure of revocable proxies received by the Meeting Proponent pursuant to a solicitation of proxies after the filing of an effective Schedule 14A by such Meeting Proponent under Section 14(a) of the Exchange Act.
Section 12. TELEPHONE AND REMOTE COMMUNICATION MEETINGS. The Board of Directors or chairman of the meeting may permit one or more stockholders to participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or other communications equipment in any manner permitted by Maryland law. In addition, the Board of Directors may determine that a meeting not be held at any place, but instead may be held solely by means of remote communication in any matter permitted by Maryland law. Participation in a meeting by these means constitutes presence in person at the meeting.
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Section 13. STOCKHOLDERS’ CONSENT IN LIEU OF MEETING. Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of stockholders may be taken without a meeting (a) if a unanimous consent setting forth the action is given in writing or by electronic transmission by each stockholder entitled to vote on the matter and filed with the minutes of proceedings of the stockholders, (b) if the action is advised, and submitted to the stockholders for approval, by the Board of Directors and a consent in writing or by electronic transmission of stockholders entitled to cast not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take the action at a meeting of stockholders at which all stockholders entitled to vote on the matter are present and voted is delivered to the Corporation in accordance with the Maryland General Corporation Law, or any successor statute (the “MGCL”), or (c) in any manner set forth in the terms of any class or series of preferred stock of the Corporation. The Corporation shall give notice of any action taken by less than unanimous consent to each stockholder not later than ten days after the effective time of such action.
Section 14. CONTROL SHARE ACQUISITION ACT. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Charter or these Bylaws, Title 3, Subtitle 7 of the MGCL or any successor statute, shall not apply to any acquisition by any person of shares of stock of the Corporation. This section may be repealed, in whole or in part, at any time, whether before or after an acquisition of control shares and, upon such repeal, may, to the extent provided by any successor bylaw, apply to any prior or subsequent control share acquisition.
Article III
DIRECTORS
Section 1. GENERAL POWERS. The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed under the direction of the Board of Directors.
Section 2. NUMBER, TENURE AND RESIGNATION. A majority of the entire Board of Directors may establish, increase or decrease the number of directors, provided that the number thereof shall never be less than the minimum number required by the MGCL, nor more than 15, and further provided that the tenure of office of a director shall not be affected by any decrease in the number of directors. Any director of the Corporation may resign at any time by delivering his or her resignation to the Board of Directors, the chairman of the Board of Directors or the secretary. Any resignation shall take effect immediately upon its receipt or at such later time specified in the resignation. The acceptance of a resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective unless otherwise stated in the resignation.
Section 3. ANNUAL AND REGULAR MEETINGS. An annual meeting of the Board of Directors may be held at such time and place, if any, as shall be specified in a notice given as hereinafter provided for special meetings of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may provide, by resolution, the time and place, if any, for regular meetings of the Board of Directors without other notice than such resolution.
Section 4. SPECIAL MEETINGS. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by or at the request of the chairman of the Board of Directors, the chief executive officer, the president or a majority of the directors then in office. The person or persons authorized to call special meetings of the Board of Directors may fix the time and place, if any, for any special meeting of the Board of Directors called by them. The Board of Directors may provide, by resolution, the time and place, if any, for special meetings of the Board of Directors without other notice than such resolution.
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Section 5. NOTICE. Notice of any special meeting of the Board of Directors shall be delivered personally or by telephone, electronic mail, facsimile transmission, courier or United States mail to each director at his or her business or residence address. Notice by personal delivery, telephone, electronic mail or facsimile transmission shall be given at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Notice by United States mail shall be given at least three days prior to the meeting. Notice by courier shall be given at least two days prior to the meeting. Telephone notice shall be deemed to be given when the director or his or her agent is personally given such notice in a telephone call to which the director or his or her agent is a party. Electronic mail notice shall be deemed to be given upon transmission of the message to the electronic mail address given to the Corporation by the director. Facsimile transmission notice shall be deemed to be given upon completion of the transmission of the message to the number given to the Corporation by the director and receipt of a completed answer-back indicating receipt. Notice by courier shall be deemed to be given when deposited with or delivered to a courier properly addressed. Notice by United States mail shall be deemed to be given when deposited in the United States mail properly addressed, with postage thereon prepaid. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any annual, regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors need be stated in the notice, unless specifically required by statute, the Charter or these Bylaws.
Section 6. QUORUM. A majority of the directors then in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Board of Directors, provided that, if less than a majority of such directors is present at such meeting, a majority of the directors present may adjourn the meeting from time to time without further notice, and provided further that if, pursuant to applicable law, the Charter or these Bylaws, the vote of a majority or other percentage of a specified group of directors is required for action, a quorum must also include a majority or such other percentage of such group.
The directors present at a meeting which has been duly called and at which a quorum has been established may continue to transact business until adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal from the meeting of enough directors to leave fewer than required to establish a quorum.
Section 7. VOTING. The action of a majority of the directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the action of the Board of Directors, unless the concurrence of a greater proportion is required for such action by applicable law, the Charter or these Bylaws. If enough directors have withdrawn from a meeting to leave fewer than required to establish a quorum, but the meeting is not adjourned, the action of the majority of that number of directors necessary to constitute a quorum at such meeting shall be the action of the Board of Directors, unless the concurrence of a greater proportion is required for such action by applicable law, the Charter or these Bylaws.
Section 8. ORGANIZATION. At each meeting of the Board of Directors, the chairman of the Board of Directors or, in the absence of the chairman, the lead independent director, if any, shall act as chairman of the meeting. In the absence of both the chairman of the Board of Directors and the lead independent director, the chief executive officer or, in the absence of the chief executive officer, the president or, in the absence of the president, a director chosen by a majority of the directors present shall act as chairman of the meeting. The secretary or, in his or her absence, an assistant secretary of the Corporation or, in the absence of the secretary and all assistant secretaries, an individual appointed by the chairman of the meeting, shall act as secretary of the meeting.
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Section 9. TELEPHONE MEETINGS. Directors may participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or other communications equipment if all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other at the same time. Participation in a meeting by these means shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.
Section 10. CONSENT BY DIRECTORS WITHOUT A MEETING. Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors may be taken without a meeting, if a consent in writing or by electronic transmission to such action is given by each director and is filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board of Directors.
Section 11. VACANCIES. If, for any reason, any or all the directors cease to be directors, such event shall not terminate the Corporation or affect these Bylaws or the powers of the remaining directors hereunder. Except as may be provided by the Board of Directors in setting the terms of any class or series of preferred stock, any vacancy on the Board of Directors may be filled only by a majority of the remaining directors, even if the remaining directors do not constitute a quorum. Any director elected to fill a vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the full term of the directorship in which the vacancy occurred and until a successor is duly elected and qualifies or until his or her earlier death, resignation or removal.
Section 12. COMPENSATION. Directors shall not receive any stated salary for their services as directors but, by resolution of the Board of Directors, may receive compensation per year and/or per meeting and/or per visit to real property or other facilities owned or leased by the Corporation and for any service or activity they performed or engaged in as directors. Directors may be reimbursed for expenses of attendance, if any, at each annual, regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof and for their expenses, if any, in connection with each property visit and any other service or activity they perform or engage in as directors; but nothing herein contained shall be construed to preclude any directors from serving the Corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a director who is also an officer of the Corporation shall not receive additional compensation for such service as a director.
Section 13. RELIANCE. Each director and officer of the Corporation shall, in the performance of his or her duties with respect to the Corporation, be entitled to rely on any information, opinion, report or statement, including any financial statement or other financial data, prepared or presented by an officer or employee of the Corporation whom the director or officer reasonably believes to be reliable and competent in the matters presented, by a lawyer, certified public accountant or other person, as to a matter which the director or officer reasonably believes to be within the person’s professional or expert competence, or, with respect to a director, by a committee of the Board of Directors on which the director does not serve, as to a matter within its designated authority, if the director reasonably believes the committee to merit confidence.
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Section 14. RATIFICATION. The Board of Directors or the stockholders may ratify any act, omission, failure to act or determination made not to act (an “Act”) by the Corporation or its officers to the extent that the Board of Directors or the stockholders could have originally authorized the Act and, if so ratified, such Act shall have the same force and effect as if originally duly authorized, and such ratification shall be binding upon the Corporation and its stockholders. Any Act questioned in any proceeding on the ground of lack of authority, defective or irregular execution, adverse interest of a director, officer or stockholder, non-disclosure, miscomputation, the application of improper principles or practices of accounting or otherwise, may be ratified, before or after judgment, by the Board of Directors or by the stockholders, and such ratification shall constitute a bar to any claim or execution of any judgment in respect of such questioned Act.
Section 15. CERTAIN RIGHTS OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS. A director or officer of the Corporation shall have no responsibility to devote his or her full time to the affairs of the Corporation. Any director or officer, in his or her personal capacity or in a capacity as an affiliate, employee or agent of any other person, or otherwise, may have business interests and engage in business activities similar to, in addition to or in competition with those of or relating to the Corporation.
Section 16. EMERGENCY PROVISIONS. Notwithstanding any other provision in the Charter or these Bylaws, this Section 16 shall apply during the existence of any catastrophe, or other similar emergency condition, as a result of which a quorum of the Board of Directors under Article III of these Bylaws cannot readily be obtained (an “Emergency”). During any Emergency, unless otherwise provided by the Board of Directors, (a) a meeting of the Board of Directors or a committee thereof may be called by any director or officer by any means feasible under the circumstances; (b) notice of any meeting of the Board of Directors during such an Emergency may be given less than 24 hours prior to the meeting to as many directors and by such means as may be feasible at the time, including publication, television or radio; and (c) the number of directors necessary to constitute a quorum shall be one-third of the entire Board of Directors.
Article IV
COMMITTEES
Section 1. NUMBER, TENURE AND QUALIFICATIONS. The Board of Directors may appoint from among its members committees, composed of one or more directors, to serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors. In the absence of any member of any such committee, the members thereof present at any meeting, whether or not they constitute a quorum, may appoint another director to act in the place of such absent member.
Section 2. POWERS. The Board of Directors may delegate to any committee appointed under Section 1 of this Article any of the powers of the Board of Directors, except as prohibited by law. Except as may be otherwise provided by the Board of Directors or prohibited by the charter of such committee, any committee may delegate some or all of its power and authority to one or more subcommittees, composed of one or more directors, as the committee deems appropriate in its sole and absolute discretion.
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Section 3. MEETINGS. Notice of committee meetings shall be given in the same manner as notice for special meetings of the Board of Directors. A majority of the members of the committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the committee. The act of a majority of the committee members present at a meeting shall be the act of such committee. The Board of Directors or, in the absence of such designation, the applicable committee may designate a chairman of any committee, and such chairman or, in the absence of a chairman, any two members of any committee (if there are at least two members of the committee) may fix the time and place of its meeting unless the Board shall otherwise provide.
Section 4. TELEPHONE MEETINGS. Members of a committee of the Board of Directors may participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or other communications equipment if all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other at the same time. Participation in a meeting by these means shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.
Section 5. CONSENT BY COMMITTEES WITHOUT A MEETING. Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of a committee of the Board of Directors may be taken without a meeting, if a consent in writing or by electronic transmission to such action is given by each member of the committee and is filed with the minutes of proceedings of such committee.
Section 6. VACANCIES. Subject to the provisions hereof, the Board of Directors shall have the power at any time to change the membership of any committee, to appoint the chair of any committee, to fill any vacancy, to designate an alternate member to replace any absent or disqualified member or to dissolve any such committee.
Article V
OFFICERS
Section 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS. The officers of the Corporation shall include a president, a secretary and a treasurer and may include a chairman of the Board of Directors, a vice chairman of the Board of Directors, a chief executive officer, one or more vice presidents, a chief operating officer, a chief financial officer, one or more assistant secretaries and one or more assistant treasurers. In addition, the Board of Directors may from time to time elect such other officers with such powers and duties as it shall deem necessary or appropriate. The officers of the Corporation shall be elected annually by the Board of Directors, except that the chief executive officer or president may from time to time appoint one or more vice presidents, assistant secretaries and assistant treasurers or other officers. Each officer shall serve until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, or his or her resignation or removal in the manner hereinafter provided. Any two or more offices except president and vice president may be held by the same person. Election of an officer or agent shall not of itself create contract rights between the Corporation and such officer or agent.
Section 2. REMOVAL AND RESIGNATION. Any officer or agent of the Corporation may be removed, with or without cause, by the Board of Directors if in its judgment the best interests of the Corporation would be served thereby, but such removal shall be without prejudice to the contract rights, if any, of the person so removed. Any officer or agent of the Corporation appointed by the chief executive officer may be removed, with or without cause, by the chief executive officer if in the chief executive officer’s judgment the best interests of the Corporation would be served thereby, but such removal shall be without prejudice to the contract rights, if any, of the person so removed. Any officer of the Corporation may resign at any time by delivering his or her resignation to the Board of Directors, the chairman of the Board of Directors, the lead independent director, the chief executive officer, the president or the secretary. Any resignation shall take effect immediately upon its receipt or at such later time specified in the resignation. The acceptance of a resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective unless otherwise stated in the resignation. Such resignation shall be without prejudice to the contract rights, if any, of the Corporation.
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Section 3. VACANCIES. A vacancy in any office may be filled by the Board of Directors for the balance of the term. A vacancy in any office appointed by the chief executive officer may be filled by the chief executive officer.
Section 4. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER. The Board of Directors may designate a chief executive officer. In the absence of such designation, the chairman of the Board of Directors shall be the chief executive officer of the Corporation. The chief executive officer shall have general responsibility for implementation of the policies of the Corporation, as determined by the Board of Directors, and for the management of the business and affairs of the Corporation. He or she may execute any deed, mortgage, bond, contract or other instrument, except in cases where the execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Board of Directors or by these Bylaws to some other officer or agent of the Corporation or shall be required by law to be otherwise executed; and in general shall perform all duties incident to the office of chief executive officer and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to time.
Section 5. CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER. The Board of Directors may designate a chief operating officer. The chief operating officer shall have the responsibilities and duties as determined by the Board of Directors or the chief executive officer.
Section 6. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER. The Board of Directors may designate a chief financial officer. The chief financial officer shall have the responsibilities and duties as determined by the Board of Directors or the chief executive officer.
Section 7. CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD. The Board of Directors may designate from among its members a chairman of the Board of Directors, who shall not, solely by reason of these Bylaws, be an officer of the Corporation. The Board of Directors may designate the chairman of the Board of Directors as an executive or non-executive chairman. The chairman of the Board of Directors shall preside over the meetings of the Board of Directors and over those meetings of the stockholders as may be required pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5 of these Bylaws. The chairman of the Board of Directors shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him or her by these Bylaws or the Board of Directors.
Section 8. PRESIDENT. In the absence of a chief executive officer, the president shall in general supervise and control all of the business and affairs of the Corporation. In the absence of a designation of a chief operating officer by the Board of Directors, the president shall be the chief operating officer. He or she may execute any deed, mortgage, bond, contract or other instrument, except in cases where the execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Board of Directors or by these Bylaws to some other officer or agent of the Corporation or shall be required by law to be otherwise executed; and in general shall perform all duties incident to the office of president and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to time.
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Section 9. VICE PRESIDENTS. In the absence of the president or in the event of a vacancy in such office, the vice president (or in the event there be more than one vice president, the vice presidents in the order designated at the time of their election or, in the absence of any designation, then in the order of their election) shall perform the duties of the president and when so acting shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the president; and shall perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to such vice president by the chief executive officer, the president or the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may designate one or more vice presidents as executive vice president, senior vice president, or vice president for particular areas of responsibility.
Section 10. SECRETARY. The secretary shall (a) keep the minutes of the proceedings of the stockholders, the Board of Directors and committees of the Board of Directors in one or more books provided for that purpose; (b) see that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these Bylaws or as required by law; (c) be custodian of the corporate records and of the seal of the Corporation; (d) keep a register of the address of each stockholder which shall be furnished to the secretary by such stockholder; (e) have general charge of the stock transfer books of the Corporation; and (f) in general, perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him or her by the chief executive officer, the president or the Board of Directors.
Section 11. TREASURER. The treasurer shall (a) have the custody of the funds and securities of the Corporation, (b) keep full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Corporation, (c) deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Corporation in such depositories as may be designated by the Board of Directors, (d) disburse the funds of the Corporation as may be ordered by the Board of Directors, taking proper vouchers for such disbursements, (e) render to the president and the Board of Directors, at the regular meetings of the Board of Directors or whenever it may so require, an account of all his or her transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the Corporation, and (f) in general, perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him or her by the chief executive officer, the president or the Board of Directors. In the absence of a designation of a chief financial officer by the Board of Directors, the treasurer shall be the chief financial officer of the Corporation.
Section 12. ASSISTANT SECRETARIES AND ASSISTANT TREASURERS. The assistant secretaries and assistant treasurers, in general, shall perform such duties as shall be assigned to them by the secretary or treasurer, respectively, or by the chief executive officer, the president or the Board of Directors.
Section 13. COMPENSATION. The compensation of the officers shall be fixed from time to time by or under the authority of the Board of Directors and no officer shall be prevented from receiving such compensation by reason of the fact that he or she is also a director.
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Article VI
CONTRACTS, CHECKS AND DEPOSITS
Section 1. CONTRACTS. The Board of Directors may authorize any officer or agent to enter into any contract or to execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Corporation and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Any agreement, deed, mortgage, lease or other document shall be valid and binding upon the Corporation when duly authorized or ratified by action of the Board of Directors and executed by an authorized person.
Section 2. CHECKS AND DRAFTS. All checks, drafts or other orders for the payment of money, notes or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of the Corporation shall be signed by such officer or agent of the Corporation in such manner as shall from time to time be determined by the Board of Directors.
Section 3. DEPOSITS. All funds of the Corporation not otherwise employed shall be deposited or invested from time to time to the credit of the Corporation as the Board of Directors, the chief executive officer, the president, the chief financial officer or any other officer designated by the Board of Directors may determine.
Article VII
STOCK
Section 1. CERTIFICATES. Except as may be otherwise provided by the Board of Directors or any officer of the Corporation, stockholders of the Corporation are not entitled to certificates representing the shares of stock held by them. In the event that the Corporation issues shares of stock represented by certificates, such certificates shall be in such form as prescribed by the Board of Directors or a duly authorized officer, shall contain the statements and information required by the MGCL and shall be signed by the officers of the Corporation in any manner permitted by the MGCL. In the event that the Corporation issues shares of stock without certificates, to the extent then required by the MGCL, the Corporation shall provide to the record holders of such shares a written statement of the information required by the MGCL to be included on stock certificates. There shall be no differences in the rights and obligations of stockholders based on whether or not their shares are represented by certificates.
Section 2. TRANSFERS. All transfers of shares of stock shall be made on the books of the Corporation in such manner as the Board of Directors or any officer of the Corporation may prescribe and, if such shares are certificated, upon surrender of certificates duly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignment or authority to transfer. The Corporation or, if authorized by the Corporation, the transfer agent of the Corporation shall cancel the old certificate and record the transaction on its books. The issuance of a new certificate upon the transfer of certificated shares is subject to the determination of the Board of Directors or an officer of the Corporation that such shares shall no longer be represented by certificates. Upon the transfer of any uncertificated shares, to the extent then required by the MGCL, the Corporation shall provide to the record holders of such shares a written statement of the information required by the MGCL to be included on stock certificates.
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The Corporation shall be entitled to treat the holder of record of any share of stock as the holder in fact thereof and, accordingly, shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or on the part of any other person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise expressly provided by the laws of the State of Maryland.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, transfers of shares of any class or series of stock will be subject in all respects to the Charter and all of the terms and conditions contained therein.
Section 3. REPLACEMENT CERTIFICATE. Any officer of the Corporation may direct a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the Corporation alleged to have been lost, destroyed, stolen or mutilated, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person claiming the certificate to be lost, destroyed, stolen or mutilated; provided, however, if such shares have ceased to be certificated, no new certificate shall be issued unless requested in writing by such stockholder and the Board of Directors or an officer of the Corporation has determined that such certificates may be issued. Unless otherwise determined by an officer of the Corporation, the owner of such lost, destroyed, stolen or mutilated certificate or certificates, or his or her legal representative, shall be required, as a condition precedent to the issuance of a new certificate or certificates, to give the Corporation an indemnity or bond in such sums as it may direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against the Corporation.
Section 4. FIXING OF RECORD DATE. The Board of Directors may set, in advance, a record date for the purpose of determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or determining stockholders entitled to receive payment of any dividend or the allotment of any other rights, or in order to make a determination of stockholders for any other proper purpose. Such record date, in any case, shall not be prior to the close of business on the day the record date is fixed and shall be not more than 90 days and, in the case of a meeting of stockholders, not less than ten days, before the date on which the meeting or particular action requiring such determination of stockholders of record is to be held or taken.
When a record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders has been set as provided in this section, such record date shall continue to apply to the meeting if adjourned or postponed, except if the meeting is adjourned or postponed to a date more than 120 days after the record date originally fixed for the meeting, in which case a new record date for such meeting shall be determined as set forth herein.
Section 5. STOCK LEDGER. The Corporation shall maintain at its principal office or at the office of its counsel, accountants or transfer agent, an original or duplicate stock ledger containing the name and address of each stockholder and the number of shares of each class held by such stockholder.
Section 6. FRACTIONAL STOCK; ISSUANCE OF UNITS. The Board of Directors may authorize the Corporation to issue fractional shares of stock or authorize the issuance of scrip, all on such terms and under such conditions as it may determine. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Charter or these Bylaws, the Board of Directors may authorize the Corporation to issue units consisting of different securities of the Corporation. Any security issued in a unit shall have the same characteristics as any identical securities issued by the Corporation, except that the Board of Directors may provide that for a specified period securities of the Corporation issued in such unit may be transferred on the books of the Corporation only in such unit.
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Article VIII
ACCOUNTING YEAR
The Board of Directors shall have the power, from time to time, to fix the fiscal year of the Corporation by a duly adopted resolution.
Article IX
DISTRIBUTIONS
Section 1. AUTHORIZATION. Dividends and other distributions upon the stock of the Corporation may be authorized by the Board of Directors and declared by the Corporation, subject to the provisions of law and the Charter. Dividends and other distributions may be paid in cash, property or stock of the Corporation, subject to the provisions of law and the Charter.
Section 2. CONTINGENCIES. Before payment of any dividend or other distribution, there may be set aside out of any assets of the Corporation available for dividends or other distributions such sum or sums as the Board of Directors may from time to time, in its sole and absolute discretion, think proper as a reserve fund for contingencies, for equalizing dividends, for repairing or maintaining any property of the Corporation or for such other purpose as the Board of Directors shall determine, and the Board of Directors may modify or abolish any such reserve.
Article X
INVESTMENT POLICY
Subject to the provisions of the Charter, the Board of Directors may from time to time adopt, amend, revise or terminate any policy or policies with respect to investments by the Corporation as it shall deem appropriate in its sole and absolute discretion.
Article XI
SEAL
Section 1. SEAL. The Board of Directors may authorize the adoption of a seal by the Corporation. The seal shall contain the name of the Corporation and the year of its incorporation and the words “Incorporated Maryland.” The Board of Directors may authorize one or more duplicate seals and provide for the custody thereof.
Section 2. AFFIXING SEAL. Whenever the Corporation is permitted or required to affix its seal to a document, it shall be sufficient to meet the requirements of any law, rule or regulation relating to a seal to place the word “(SEAL)” adjacent to the signature of the person authorized to execute the document on behalf of the Corporation.
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Article XII
WAIVER OF NOTICE
Whenever any notice of a meeting is required to be given pursuant to the Charter or these Bylaws or pursuant to applicable law, a waiver thereof in writing or by electronic transmission, given by the person or persons entitled to such notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to the giving of such notice. Neither the business to be transacted at nor the purpose of any meeting need be set forth in the waiver of notice of such meeting, unless specifically required by statute. The attendance of any person at any meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where such person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business on the ground that the meeting has not been lawfully called or convened.
Article XIII
EXCLUSIVE FORUM FOR CERTAIN LITIGATION
Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland or, if that Court does not have jurisdiction, the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, Northern Division shall be the sole and exclusive forum for (a) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, (b) any action asserting a claim of breach of any duty owed by any director or officer or other employee of the Corporation to the Corporation or to the stockholders of the Corporation, (c) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation or any director or officer or other employee of the Corporation arising pursuant to any provision of the MGCL, the Charter or these Bylaws, or (d) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation or any director or officer or other employee of the Corporation that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine.
Article XIV
AMENDMENT OF BYLAWS
The Board of Directors shall have the exclusive power to adopt, alter or repeal any provision of these Bylaws and to make new Bylaws.
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Exhibit 10.7
EXECUTION VERSION
LOAN AGREEMENT
Dated as of April 6, 2022
among
THE PERSONS FROM TIME TO TIME
PARTY HERETO AS BORROWERS,
THE PERSONS FROM TIME TO TIME
PARTY HERETO AS EQUITY OWNERS,
BLUEROCK RESIDENTIAL HOLDINGS, LP, as the Risk Retention Sponsor, solely with respect to Section 5.07,
THE PERSONS FROM TIME TO TIME
PARTY HERETO AS LENDERS,
DEUTSCHE BANK SECURITIES INC.,
as Sole Lead Arranger
Deutsche Bank AG, NEW YORK Branch,
as Administrative Agent
and
COMPUTERSHARE TRUST COMPANY, N.A.,
as Paying Agent and Calculation Agent
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS | 1 |
| SECTION 1.01. Certain Defined Terms | 1 |
| SECTION 1.02. Other Terms and Constructions | 72 |
| SECTION 1.03. Computation of Time Periods | 73 |
| SECTION 1.04. Divisions | 73 |
| SECTION 1.05. Interest Rates | 73 |
| SECTION 1.06. Security Procedure Agreement | 74 |
| ARTICLE II AMOUNTS AND TERMS OF THE LOANS | 74 |
| SECTION 2.01. Loans | 74 |
| SECTION 2.02. Borrowing Procedures | 76 |
| SECTION 2.03. [Reserved] | 79 |
| SECTION 2.04. Alternate Rate of Interest. | 79 |
| SECTION 2.05. Interest; Fees. | 81 |
| SECTION 2.06. Principal Payments | 82 |
| SECTION 2.07. Application of Collections | 84 |
| SECTION 2.08. Extension of Maturity Date | 87 |
| SECTION 2.09. Payments and Computations, Etc. | 87 |
| SECTION 2.10. Interest Protection | 88 |
| SECTION 2.11. Increased Capital | 89 |
| SECTION 2.12. Funding Losses | 89 |
| SECTION 2.13. Taxes | 90 |
| SECTION 2.14. Collateral Assignment of Agreements | 94 |
| SECTION 2.15. [Reserved] | 94 |
| SECTION 2.16. Refinancings and Transfers | 94 |
| SECTION 2.17. Release of Lien; Borrowers | 96 |
| SECTION 2.18. The Collection Account | 97 |
| SECTION 2.19. The Paying Agent | 98 |
| SECTION 2.20. The Calculation Agent | 104 |
| SECTION 2.21. Defaulting Lenders | 110 |
| SECTION 2.22. Replacement of a Lender | 111 |
| SECTION 2.23. Joint and Several Liability of Borrowers | 112 |
| SECTION 2.24. Partial Reduction of Commitments | 113 |
| SECTION 2.25. Actions and Events Outside of Lenders’ and Agents’ Control | 114 |
| SECTION 2.26. BRG Restructuring | 114 |
| ARTICLE III CONDITIONS PRECEDENT | 114 |
| SECTION 3.01. Conditions Precedent to Effectiveness | 114 |
| SECTION 3.02. Conditions Precedent to Borrowings of Property Loans | 115 |
| SECTION 3.03. Conditions Precedent to Borrowings of Renovation Loans | 117 |
| ARTICLE IV REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES | 119 |
| SECTION 4.01. Representations and Warranties | 119 |
| ARTICLE V COVENANTS | 127 |
| SECTION 5.01. Affirmative Covenants of the Loan Parties | 127 |
| SECTION 5.02. Reporting Requirements of the Loan Parties | 137 |
| SECTION 5.03. Interest Rate Cap Agreement | 141 |
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| SECTION 5.04. Insurance Requirements; Casualty | 146 |
| SECTION 5.05. Negative Covenants of the Loan Parties | 151 |
| SECTION 5.06. Financial Covenants | 155 |
| SECTION 5.07. Risk Retention | 156 |
| ARTICLE VI RESERVES | 158 |
| SECTION 6.01. [Reserved] | 158 |
| SECTION 6.02. Renovation Reserves | 158 |
| SECTION 6.03. [Reserved] | 160 |
| SECTION 6.04. Debt Service Reserves | 160 |
| SECTION 6.05. Tax Reserve | 160 |
| SECTION 6.06. Insurance Reserves | 161 |
| SECTION 6.07. Standing Reserves | 162 |
| SECTION 6.08. Special Reserves | 163 |
| SECTION 6.09. [Reserved] | 163 |
| SECTION 6.10. Debt Service Account | 163 |
| SECTION 6.11. Reserve Accounts Generally | 164 |
| SECTION 6.12. Sponsor Reporting | 165 |
| ARTICLE VII EVENTS OF DEFAULT | 166 |
| SECTION 7.01. Events of Default | 166 |
| SECTION 7.02. Remedies | 169 |
| SECTION 7.03. Appointment as Attorney in Fact | 171 |
| SECTION 7.04. Powers Coupled with an Interest | 172 |
| ARTICLE VIII INDEMNIFICATION | 172 |
| SECTION 8.01. Indemnities by the Loan Parties | 172 |
| SECTION 8.02. Limited Liability of Parties | 173 |
| ARTICLE IX THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT; THE COLLATERAL AGENT | 173 |
| SECTION 9.01. Authorization and Action | 173 |
| SECTION 9.02. Agents’ Reliance, Etc. | 174 |
| SECTION 9.03. Agents and Affiliates | 175 |
| SECTION 9.04. Lender’s Loan Decision | 175 |
| SECTION 9.05. Delegation of Duties | 175 |
| SECTION 9.06. Indemnification | 175 |
| SECTION 9.07. Successor Agents | 176 |
| SECTION 9.08. Enforcement and Collateral Matters | 176 |
| SECTION 9.09. Erroneous Payments | 177 |
| ARTICLE X MISCELLANEOUS | 178 |
| SECTION 10.01. Amendments, Etc. | 178 |
| SECTION 10.02. Notices, Etc. | 181 |
| SECTION 10.03. Assignability | 181 |
| SECTION 10.04. Consent to Jurisdiction | 184 |
| SECTION 10.05. WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL | 184 |
| SECTION 10.06. Right of Setoff | 184 |
| SECTION 10.07. Ratable Payments | 185 |
| SECTION 10.08. Limitation of Liability | 185 |
| SECTION 10.09. Costs, Expenses | 185 |
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| SECTION 10.10. Confidentiality | 186 |
| SECTION 10.11. No Waiver; Remedies | 187 |
| SECTION 10.12. GOVERNING LAW | 187 |
| SECTION 10.13. Execution in Counterparts; Electronic Signatures | 187 |
| SECTION 10.14. Integration; Binding Effect; Survival of Termination | 188 |
| SECTION 10.15. USA Patriot Act | 188 |
| SECTION 10.16. OFAC | 188 |
| SECTION 10.17. Borrower Representative | 188 |
| SECTION 10.18. State-Specific Provisions | 189 |
| SECTION 10.19. [Reserved]. | 192 |
| SECTION 10.20. Cross-Collateralization; Waiver of Marshalling of Assets | 192 |
| SECTION 10.21. No Advisory or Fiduciary Responsibility | 192 |
| SECTION 10.22. Lender Communications; Lender Objections | 193 |
| SECTION 10.23. Access to Information | 193 |
| SECTION 10.24. NOTICE OF FINAL AGREEMENT | 194 |
| SECTION 10.25. Acknowledgement and Consent to Bail-In of Affected Financial Institutions | 194 |
| SECTION 10.26. Time is of the Essence | 194 |
| SECTION 10.27. Acknowledgment Regarding Any Supported QFCs | 194 |
EXHIBITS AND SCHEDULES
| EXHIBIT A | Form of Acknowledgment |
| EXHIBIT B | Form of Assignment and Acceptance |
| EXHIBIT C | Form of Borrower Joinder Agreement |
| EXHIBIT D | Form of Guarantor Joinder Agreement |
| EXHIBIT E | Form of Monthly Borrower Report |
| EXHIBIT F | Form of Request for Release |
| EXHIBIT G | Form of Promissory Note |
| EXHIBIT H-1 | Form of Borrowing Request for Property Loans |
| EXHIBIT H-2 | Form of Borrowing Request for Renovation Loans |
| EXHIBIT I | Form of Risk Retention Certificate |
| EXHIBIT J | Form of Lender Objection |
| EXHIBIT K | Form of Compliance Certificate |
| EXHIBIT L | Form of Mortgage (TX) |
| EXHIBIT M | Form of Recycled Entity Certificate |
| EXHIBIT N | Form of HOA Certificate |
| SCHEDULE I | Eligible Property Criteria |
| SCHEDULE II | Lender Commitments |
| SCHEDULE III | Notice Addresses |
| SCHEDULE IV | Converted Property Reserve Release Conditions |
| SCHEDULE V | Existing Management Agreements |
| SCHEDULE VI | Calculations Schedule |
| SCHEDULE VII | Mortgage File Required Documents |
| SCHEDULE 4.01 | Capitalization |
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LOAN AGREEMENT
THIS LOAN AGREEMENT, dated as of April 6, 2022, is made by and among THE PERSONS FROM TIME TO TIME PARTY HERETO as Borrowers, THE PERSONS FROM TIME TO TIME PARTY HERETO as Equity Owners, BLUEROCK RESIDENTIAL HOLDINGS, LP, as Risk Retention Sponsor (solely with respect to Section 5.07), THE PERSONS FROM TIME TO TIME PARTY HERETO as Lenders, DEUTSCHE BANK SECURITIES INC., as Sole Lead Arranger, Deutsche Bank AG, NEW YORK Branch, as Administrative Agent and COMPUTERSHARE TRUST COMPANY, N.A., as Paying Agent and Calculation Agent. Capitalized terms used herein shall have the meanings specified in Section 1.01.
PRELIMINARY STATEMENTS
WHEREAS, the Borrowers have purchased and may from time to time purchase Properties and related Assets from third parties; and
WHEREAS, to finance their purchases of Properties, the Borrowers may from time to time request Loans from the Lenders, and the Lenders shall make such Loans, on the terms and conditions of this Agreement;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises, the mutual covenants and agreements herein contained and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, each party hereto agrees as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 1.01. Certain Defined Terms. As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the following meanings (and capitalized terms used but not defined herein which are defined in any other Loan Document shall have the respective meanings given to such terms in such other Loan Document):
“Accession Date” means, with respect to Additional Loan Party, the date such Additional Loan Party becomes a Borrower or an Equity Owner, as applicable, under this Agreement.
“Account Collateral” means the Accounts and (i) all certificates and instruments, if any, from time to time representing or evidencing any of such Accounts or any funds held therein, (ii) all investment property and other financial assets or proceeds thereof held in, or acquired by any Loan Party with funds from, such Accounts and all certificates and instruments from time to time representing or evidencing such investment property and financial assets, (iii) all notes, certificates of deposit and other instruments from time to time hereafter delivered or transferred to, or otherwise possessed by, the Administrative Agent in substitution for any of the then existing Accounts and (iv) all interest, dividends, cash, instruments, financial assets, investment property and other property from time to time received, receivable or otherwise distributed in respect of or in exchange for any or all of the foregoing.
“Accounts” means any account established by this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, including the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account, the Reserve Accounts, the Property Accounts and each Operating Account.
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“Acknowledgment” means an acknowledgment substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit A made by the Borrowers in favor of the Administrative Agent and consented to by Counterparty, or as applicable, Approved Counterparty.
“Acquisition Date” means, with respect to any Property, the date on which such Property was purchased or acquired, or, if earlier, successfully bid upon at auction by any Borrower or an Affiliate thereof.
“Actual Renovation Expenses” means, with respect to any Property, the actual out-of-pocket Renovation Expenses incurred by the applicable Borrower with respect to the renovation of such Property, as demonstrated in a certificate certified by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower Representative delivered to the Diligence Agent and the Administrative Agent; provided that reasonably satisfactory written evidence supporting the Renovation Expenses set forth in such a certificate shall be delivered to the Diligence Agent, the Administrative Agent and, upon request of the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders, to the Lenders; provided further that the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders shall have a right to request recalculation of the Actual Renovation Expenses in any case where either of them considers the evidence supporting the Renovation Expenses not reasonably satisfactory.
“Actual Underwritten Gross Income” means, as of any date of determination, the Underwritten Gross Income with respect to Stabilized Properties that are not Vacant.
“Actual Vacancy Rate” means, as of any date of determination, in respect of any Stabilized Property, a percentage equal to one minus a fraction equal to (i) the Actual Underwritten Gross Income for the Stabilized Properties in the related metropolitan statistical area divided by (ii) the Underwritten Gross Income for the Stabilized Properties in the related metropolitan statistical area.
“Additional Insolvency Opinion” means any subsequent non-consolidation opinion required to be delivered in connection with the Loan Documents, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
“Additional Loan Party” means any Person who becomes a Borrower or an Equity Owner after the Closing Date in accordance with Section 5.01(s).
“Adjusted Actual Vacancy Rate” means, with respect to any multi-unit Property as of any date of calculation, an assumed vacancy rate, expressed as a percentage and calculated as (i) the positive difference between (A) GPR of such multi-unit Property and (B) the lesser of actual cash collections on account of rents paid by residential Tenants of such multi-unit Property for the three (3), six (6) or twelve (12) month period prior to such calculation date, as annualized (if applicable), over (ii) GPR of such multi-unit Property.
“Administrative Agent” means Deutsche Bank AG, New York Branch, in its capacity as agent for the Secured Parties, together with its successors and permitted assigns.
“Administrative Fee” has the meaning set forth in the Fee Letter.
“Adverse Claim” means a Lien other than any Permitted Lien.
“Affected Financial Institution” means (a) any EEA Financial Institution or (b) any UK Financial Institution.
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“Affected Party” means any Lender, the Administrative Agent, individually and in its capacity as Administrative Agent, and, with respect to each of the foregoing, the parent company or holding company that controls such Person.
“Affiliate” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person which, directly or indirectly, Controls, is Controlled by, or is under common Control with, such Person or owns, legally or beneficially, 15% or more of the direct or indirect economic interests in such Person. For purposes hereof, “Control” (together with the correlative meanings of “Controlled by” and “under common Control with”) means possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the day-to-day management and policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract, or otherwise.
“Aged Development Property” means, as of any date of determination, any SFR Property located on a Project, which Project, as of such date, has not been completed or has more than 5% of unfinished Properties for more than 270 days following the first date any SFR Property on such Project became a Financed Property.
“Aged Non-Stabilized Property” means, as of any date of determination, any Financed Property that is a Non-Stabilized Property on such date and that has been a Non-Stabilized Property for more than 180 days following the Acquisition Date for such Financed Property by an applicable Borrower or its Affiliates.
“Aggregate Commitment” means, (a) at any time during the Initial Term, the sum of the Commitments then in effect, and (b) at any time during any Extension Term, the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance at such time. The Aggregate Commitment as of the Closing Date is $150,000,000.00.
“Aggregate Loan Principal Balance” means, at any time, the aggregate outstanding principal amount of all Loans.
“Agreement” means this Loan Agreement.
“Allocated Loan Amount” means:
(a) with respect to each Property (other than a Multi-Unit Property or any Property located on a Single Plat Development) that is the subject of a Borrowing pursuant to Section 2.02(a), an amount equal to the sum of (i) the pro rata portion of the Property Loan made with respect to such Property based on the Purchase Price of such Property at the time such Property Loan was made, plus (ii) the Renovation Loan made with respect to such Property at the time such Renovation Loan was made, as such amount may be reduced in accordance with Section 2.06(c); and
(b) with respect to each Multi-Unit Property (or any Property located on such Single Plat Development) that is the subject of a Borrowing pursuant to Section 2.02(a), an amount determined by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion based upon the ratable amount of sum of (i) the pro rata portion of the Property Loan made with respect to such Multi-Unit Property (including the Properties located on such Single Plat Development) based on the Purchase Price of such Multi-Unit Property at the time such Property Loan was made, plus (ii) the aggregate amount of Renovation Loans made with respect to such Multi-Unit Property (including Properties located on such Single Plat Development) at the time such Renovation Loans were made, as such amounts may be reduced in accordance with Section 2.06(c);
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provided, that, for the avoidance of doubt, and without any implication to the contrary, for any Properties located on a Single Plat Development, an Allocated Loan Amount shall be assigned only to the entire Single Plat Development, and any reference to the Allocated Loan Amount for any individual Property located on a Single Plat Development shall be deemed to refer to the Allocated Loan Amount for the entirety of such Single Plat Development, without double counting for any other Property located on the same Single Plat Development. Any calculation on a pro rata basis with respect to the Allocated Loan Amount for any Financed Property on a Financed Single Plat Development shall be calculated on a pro rata basis with respect to the Allocated Loan Amount for the entire Financed Single Plat Development, without double counting for any other Financed Property located on the same Financed Single Plat Development.
“ALTA” means American Land Title Association, or any successor thereto.
“Alternate Index Rate” means, with respect to each Settlement Period, the per annum rate of interest of the Benchmark Replacement, determined as of the Interest Determination Date with respect to such Settlement Period; provided that in no event will the Alternate Index Rate be less than the Index Floor.
“Alternate Rate” means, with respect to each Settlement Period, the per annum rate of interest equal to the greater of (i) the sum of (A) the Alternate Index Rate plus (B) the Spread, and (ii) the sum of (A) the Index Floor plus (B) the Spread.
“Alternate Rate Loan” means any Loan at such time as interest thereon accrues at a per annum rate of interest based on the Benchmark Replacement.
“Anti-Corruption Laws” has the meaning specified in Section 4.01(s).
“Anti-Money Laundering Laws” any laws relating to money laundering or terrorist financing, including, without limitation, (A) the criminal laws against terrorism; (B) the criminal laws against money laundering, (C) the Bank Secrecy Act, as amended, (D) the Money Laundering Control Act of 1986, as amended, and (E) the Patriot Act.
“Applicable HOA Properties” means, as of any date with respect to any Applicable HOA State, (a) all HOA Properties located in such Applicable HOA State except for any Properties (i) as to which any Liens for HOA Fees are expressly subordinated to the Lien of the Mortgages and the applicable Title Insurance Policy insures against any loss sustained by any Secured Party if such Liens for HOA Fees, including after-arising Liens for HOA Fees, have priority over the Lien of the Mortgages or (ii) with respect to which the Borrowers have delivered to the Administrative Agent an opinion (which may be in the form of a bring-down or date-down opinion with respect to an earlier delivered opinion) dated not more than twelve (12) months prior to such date, satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, from a nationally recognized law firm (or one with prominent standing in the applicable state) that affirmatively concludes that any Liens for HOA Fees (including future-arising Liens for HOA Fees) do not have priority with respect to such related HOA Property (which may be based on the particular terms of the HOA declarations of such related HOA Property as set forth in the applicable local counsel opinion described in clause (b) of Schedule I for that state subject to certification by Simplified Title Company LLC or another reputable title service approved in writing by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion), and (b) each HOA Property designated as an Applicable HOA Property pursuant to Section 5.02(f)(i).
“Applicable HOA Property Fees” means, with respect to any Applicable HOA Property, the HOA Fees payable with respect to such Applicable HOA Property.
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“Applicable HOA State” means (a) a state in which, pursuant to applicable Legal Requirements, (i) a Lien in favor of an HOA may be created through the non-payment of amounts assessed against a Property by such HOA, (ii) any such Lien would have Priority over the lien applicable to the related Mortgage and (iii) any such Lien if foreclosed upon by such HOA would result in an extinguishment of the Lien of the Mortgage on such Property and (b) a state designated as an Applicable HOA State pursuant to Section 5.02(f)(i). For the avoidance of doubt, if a reported decision of a state appellate court would result in the foregoing clauses (a)(i) through (iii) applying in such state, then such state shall constitute an Applicable HOA State.
“Appraisal” means an appraisal (or, to the extent determined by the Administrative Agent to be acceptable in its sole and absolute discretion, an evaluation), and determined on both an “as-is” and “as-stabilized” basis, net of estimated brokerage, legal, marketing and other closing costs obtained by the Administrative Agent from the Diligence Agent that at a minimum complies with FIRREA and conforms to generally accepted appraisal standards as set forth in the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice promulgated by the Appraisal Standards Board of the Appraisal Foundation.
“Approval Requirement Asset” means a Multi-Family Property or a Single Plat Development, as the context requires.
“Approved Counterparty” means (a) Deutsche Bank AG, and any of its affiliates, and (b) any other bank or other financial institution which has (i) a long-term unsecured debt rating of not less than “A-” by S&P and (ii) a long-term unsecured debt rating of not less than “A3” from Moody’s.
“Approved Fund” means any Person (other than a natural person) that is engaged in making, purchasing, holding or investing in bank loans and similar extensions of credit in the ordinary course of its business and that is administered or managed by (i) a Lender, (ii) an Affiliate of a Lender or (iii) any entity or an Affiliate of any entity that administers or manages a Lender, in each case, excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, any portfolio company of any Lender that is engaged in the same line of business as the Loan Parties.
“Approved Multi-Family Property” means any Multi-Family Property approved in writing by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion prior to its becoming a Financed Property.
“Approved Participant” means any Person to whom a participation is sold pursuant to Section 10.03(e) with the approval of the Borrower Representative and written approval of the Administrative Agent (in each case, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld); provided that any Person to whom a participation is sold pursuant to Section 10.03(e) when an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing shall be an Approved Participant. An Approved Participant (in place of the related Assigning Lender) shall be deemed to be a “Lender” for purposes of the definitions of “Majority Lenders” and “Supermajority Lenders” and Section 10.01 to the extent a related Assigning Lender assigns its voting rights to such Approved Participant in connection with the participation.
“Approved Single Plat Development” means any Single Plat Development of which a Borrower owns 100% fee simple interest and possesses all rights to control the use, leasing and management of such development and the properties thereon, including all Properties, facilities, installations and other structures and all fixtures, roadways, access ways, easements, rights of access, signage, additions, enlargements, extensions, modifications and improvements located thereon at any time and all other property and interests related thereto, and approved in writing by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion prior to any Property located on such Single Plat Development becoming a Financed Property.
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“Asset” means all of any Borrower’s right, title and interest in and to (i) any asset owned by a Borrower, which may include, but is not limited to, Properties, (ii) the rights to all payments (including, without limitation, any right to payment with respect to Rents, Insurance Proceeds, Transfer Proceeds, Refinancing Proceeds, Awards and Cap Receipts) with respect to such asset, (iii) all Collections and all other Account Collateral, (iv) the Property File and any other agreements, documents and instruments relating to such asset, (v) all Records relating to such asset and (vi) all proceeds of the foregoing.
“Assigned Documents” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.14.
“Assigning Lender” means a Lender that sells a participation to an Approved Participant.
“Assignment and Acceptance” means an agreement substantially in the form set forth as Exhibit B pursuant to which a new Lender becomes party to this Agreement.
“Assignment of Management Agreement” means each Assignment of Management Agreement and Subordination of Management Fees, executed by the applicable Borrower, Administrative Agent and the applicable Property Manager, substantially in the form agreed to on the Closing Date, or in such other form that is reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders, the applicable Borrower and the applicable Property Manager.
“Available Funds” means, for any Monthly Payment Date and the related Settlement Period, (i) all Collections received in the Collection Account during such Settlement Period, minus (ii) all amounts in respect of such Settlement Period withdrawn from the Collection Account and applied to the prepayment of the Loans prior to such Monthly Payment Date pursuant to Section 2.06.
“Award” means any compensation paid by any Governmental Authority in connection with a Condemnation with respect to all or any part of any Financed Property.
“Bail-In Action” means the exercise of any Write-Down and Conversion Powers by the applicable Resolution Authority in respect of any liability of an Affected Financial Institution.
“Bail-In Legislation” means (a) with respect to any EEA Member Country implementing Article 55 of Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union, the implementing law, regulation rule or requirement for such EEA Member Country from time to time which is described in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule and (b) with respect to the United Kingdom, Part I of the United Kingdom Banking Act 2009 (as amended from time to time) and any other law, regulation or rule applicable in the United Kingdom relating to the resolution of unsound or failing banks, investment firms or other financial institutions or their affiliates (other than through liquidation, administration or other insolvency proceedings).
“Bankruptcy Code” means Title 11 of the United States Code, 11 U.S.C. Section 101 et seq., as the same may be amended from time to time, and any successor statute or statutes and all rules and regulations from time to time promulgated thereunder, and any comparable foreign laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or creditors’ rights or any other federal, state or foreign law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, assignment for the benefit of creditors, conservatorship, moratorium, receivership, rearrangement, reorganization or similar debtor relief laws.
“Basel III” means “A Global Regulatory Framework for More Resilient Banks and Banking Systems” developed by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (or any successor or similar authority), initially published in December 2010.
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“Benchmark” means (i) initially, and continuing unless and until replaced by a Benchmark Replacement pursuant to clause (a) of Section 2.04, the Term SOFR Reference Rate, and (ii) if a Benchmark Transition Event and its related Benchmark Replacement Date have occurred with respect to the Term SOFR Reference Rate or the then-current Benchmark, then the applicable Benchmark Replacement.
“Benchmark Replacement” means, for any Settlement Period, the first alternative set forth in the order below that can be determined by the Administrative Agent (and notified to the Calculation Agent) as of the date that the Loans are converted to Alternate Rate Loans pursuant to Section 2.04 below:
(a) Subject to the provisos at the end of this definition, the sum of: (i) SOFR Average and (ii) the related Benchmark Replacement Adjustment, provided that SOFR Average and the related Benchmark Replacement Adjustment are displayed on a screen or other information service that publishes such rate from time to time as selected by the Administrative Agent in its sole but good faith discretion (and notified in writing to the Calculation Agent); or
(b) the sum of: (i) the floating rate index that the Administrative Agent determines in its sole but good faith discretion (and in connection therewith, the Administrative Agent may take into consideration the recommendations of the Relevant Governmental Body) and that is then, or the Administrative Agent anticipates will be, generally used by the Administrative Agent in its syndicated floating rate single family rental real estate loans similar to the subject Loan as an alternative to the then-current Benchmark, as determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole but good faith discretion (and notified in writing to the Calculation Agent) and (ii) the related Benchmark Replacement Adjustment;
provided that if the index rate set forth in clause (a) above is not then commonly used by the Administrative Agent in its syndicated floating rate single family rental real estate loans similar to the subject Loan as an alternative to the then-current Benchmark, as determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole but good faith discretion, then the Benchmark Replacement shall be determined per clause (b) above.
Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything herein to the contrary, in no event shall the Benchmark Replacement be less than the Index Floor.
“Benchmark Replacement Adjustment” means, for any Settlement Period, the first alternative set forth in the order below that can be determined by the Administrative Agent as of the date that the Loans are converted to Alternate Rate Loans pursuant to Section 2.04 below:
(a) the rate adjustment, or method for calculating or determining such rate adjustment (which may be a positive or negative value or zero) that has been selected, endorsed or recommended by the Relevant Governmental Body for the applicable Unadjusted Benchmark Replacement; or
(b) the rate adjustment (which may be a positive or negative value or zero) that has been determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole but good faith discretion, giving due consideration to any industry-accepted index rate adjustment, or method for calculating or determining such rate adjustment, for the replacement of the then-current Benchmark with the applicable Unadjusted Benchmark Replacement for U.S. dollar-denominated floating rate balance sheet loans.
“Benchmark Replacement Date” means the earliest to occur of the following events with respect to the then-current Benchmark:
(1) in the case of clause (1) or (2) of the definition of “Benchmark Transition Event,” the later of (a) the date of the public statement or publication of information referenced therein and (b) the date on which the administrator of such Benchmark permanently or indefinitely ceases to provide such Benchmark (or the published component used in the calculation thereof);
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(2) in the case of clause (3) of the definition of “Benchmark Transition Event,” the first date on which such Benchmark (or the published component used in the calculation thereof) has been determined and announced by the regulatory supervisor for the administrator of such Benchmark (or such component thereof) to be non-representative; provided that, such non-representativeness will be determined by reference to the most recent statement or publication referenced in such clause (3) and even if such Benchmark continues to be provided on such date; or
(3) in the case of clause (4) of the definition of “Benchmark Transition Event”, the date of the Change in Law Determination; or
(4) in the case of clause (5) of the definition of “Benchmark Transition Event”, the date of the Benchmark Unavailability Determination.
“Benchmark Transition Event” means the occurrence of one or more of the following events with respect to the then-current Benchmark:
(1) a public statement or publication of information by or on behalf of the administrator of such Benchmark (or the published component used in the calculation thereof) announcing that such administrator has ceased or will cease to provide such Benchmark (or such component thereof), permanently or indefinitely, provided that, at the time of such statement or publication, there is no successor administrator that will continue to provide such Benchmark (or such component thereof);
(2) a public statement or publication of information by the regulatory supervisor for the administrator of such Benchmark (or the published component used in the calculation thereof), the Board, the NYFRB, an insolvency official with jurisdiction over the administrator for such Benchmark (or such component), a resolution authority with jurisdiction over the administrator for such Benchmark (or such component) or a court or an entity with similar insolvency or resolution authority over the administrator for such Benchmark (or such component), which states that the administrator of such Benchmark (or such component) has ceased or will cease to provide such Benchmark (or such component thereof) permanently or indefinitely, provided that, at the time of such statement or publication, there is no successor administrator that will continue to provide such Benchmark (or such component thereof);
(3) a public statement or publication of information by or on behalf of the administrator of such Benchmark (or the published component used in the calculation thereof) or the regulatory supervisor for the administrator of such Benchmark (or such component thereof) announcing that such Benchmark (or such component thereof) is not, or as of a specified future date will not be, representative; or
(4) a Change in Law that the Administrative Agent determines (which determination shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes absent manifest error) prohibits, restricts or limits the use of such Benchmark (upon such determination “Change in Law Determination”); or
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(5) a Benchmark Unavailability Period has occurred or exists with respect to such Benchmark, and the Administrative Agent determines in its sole and absolute discretion that such Benchmark shall no longer be used as the Benchmark under this Agreement (a “Benchmark Unavailability Determination”).
“Benchmark Unavailability Period” means each (if any) Settlement Period for which the Administrative Agent determines (which determination shall be conclusive and binding absent manifest error) that adequate and reasonable means do not exist for ascertaining the Interest Rate for the applicable Settlement Period (including, if the Benchmark is Term SOFR or SOFR Average, that Term SOFR or SOFR Average, as applicable, cannot be determined in accordance with the definition thereof).
“Beneficial Ownership Certification” means a certification regarding beneficial ownership required by the Beneficial Ownership Regulation, which certification shall be substantially similar in form and substance to the form of Certification Regarding Beneficial Owners of Legal Entity Customers published jointly, in May 2018, by the Loan Syndications and Trading Association and Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association.
“Beneficial Ownership Regulation” means 31 C.F.R. § 1010.230.
“BHC Act Affiliate” of a party means an “affiliate” (as such term is defined under, and interpreted in accordance with, 12 U.S.C. 1841(k)) of such party.
“Big Four” means any of the following accounting firms: (i) Deloitte & Touche LLP, (ii) Ernst & Young LLP, (iii) KPMG LLP and (iv) PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
“Board” means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System of the U.S.
“Borrower Information” has the meaning specified in Section 10.10(b).
“Borrower Joinder Agreement” means a joinder agreement substantially in the form set forth as Exhibit C pursuant to which a new Borrower becomes party to this Agreement.
“Borrower Parties” has the meaning specified in Section 10.10(a).
“Borrower Representative” means Pkg 10a Recap, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, or any replacement entity thereof that is a Borrower and is selected by Borrowers and approved in writing by the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld).
“Borrower Security Agreement” means the security agreement, dated as of the Closing Date, among the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent.
“Borrowers” means, collectively, Borrower Representative, Pkg 10a Recap, LLC, Pkg 10-Axelrod 22, LLC, Pkg 10-Granbury, LLC, Pkg 10 Lubbock 1.0, LLC, Pkg 10-Lynnwood 20, LLC, Pkg 10-Springtown 14, LLC, Pkg 10-Springtown 70, LLC and Pkg 10-Texarkana 29, LLC, each a Delaware limited liability company, and each such other subsidiary of an Equity Owner which holds Properties, that has been approved in writing by the Administrative Agent (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld) and added as a Borrower hereunder in accordance with Section 5.01(s), each of which, together with the TRS Borrowers, shall be a “Borrower” and including the TRS Borrowers.
“Borrowing” means a borrowing of Loans under this Agreement.
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“Borrowing Date” means the date on which a Loan is funded hereunder.
“Borrowing Request” means an Initial Borrowing Request, a Modified Borrowing Request or a Final Borrowing Request, as the context may require.
“BPO Determined Value” means:
(a) with respect to any Property (other than any Property located in an Single Plat Development), the “as is” value for such Property set forth in the initial Broker Price Opinion obtained by the Administrative Agent from the Diligence Agent with respect to such Property in connection with the Borrowing Request for the Property Loan related to such Property, as adjusted pursuant to the BPO Reconciliation Process, provided that the BPO Determined Value of an Aged Development Property shall be 50% of the “as is” value set forth in the Broker Price Opinion with respect to such Aged Development Property; and
(b) with respect to any Single Plat Development, the “as is” value for such Single Plat Development set forth in the most recent Broker Price Opinion with respect to such Single Plat Development; provided, that (A) if any Property located on a Single Plat Development ceases to be an Eligible Property, the BPO Determined Value of such Single Plat Development shall be zero (unless the Administrative Agent shall determine its value to be higher in its reasonable discretion).
For the avoidance of doubt, and without any implication to the contrary, for any Properties located on a Single Plat Development, a BPO Determined Value shall be assigned only to the entire Single Plat Development, and any reference to the BPO Determined Value for any individual Property located on a Single Plat Development shall be deemed to refer to the BPO Determined Value for the entirety of such Single Plat Development, without double counting for any other Property located on the same Single Plat Development. Any calculation on a pro rata basis with respect to the BPO Determined Value for any Financed Property on a Financed Single Plat Development shall be calculated on a pro rata basis with respect to the BPO Determined Value for the entire Financed Single Plat Development, without double counting for any other Financed Property located on the same Financed Single Plat Development.
The Administrative Agent shall, at the Borrowers’ expense, order Broker Price Opinions from the Diligence Agent as follows:
| (1) | with respect to the Financed Properties other than Multi-Family Properties and Financed Properties located on a Financed Single Plat Development, at any time, but not more than four times each calendar year, for (x) a sample of up to 25.0% (by number) of the Financed Properties, such sample to be selected by the Administrative Agent on a random basis from the Financed Properties (excluding Multi-Family Properties and Financed Properties located on a Financed Single Plat Development) with the Broker Price Opinions obtained more than thirty (30) days prior to the date of a sample selection, such order to be placed pursuant to standing instructions with the Diligence Agent and (y) all the Financed Properties, if the foregoing sample described in clause (x) shows an aggregate BPO Value that results in a Loan to Value Ratio of greater than 70.0%; and |
| (2) | with respect to any Multi-Family Property or any Financed Single Plat Development, at any time, but not more than one time each calendar year. |
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Upon receipt of any such updated Broker Price Opinions, the “BPO Determined Value” shall be the “as is” value for such Property set forth in such Broker Price Opinions, as adjusted by the Administrative Agent pursuant to the BPO Reconciliation Process. Unless otherwise directed by the Majority Lenders in writing, with respect to any Broker Price Opinions which may be ordered by the Administrative Agent pursuant hereto, the Administrative Agent may order Broker Price Opinions for a smaller subset of Properties or no Properties as it may determine in its sole and absolute discretion. The Administrative Agent may also order additional Broker Price Opinions, at the Lenders’ expense, for any additional Properties as it may determine in its sole and absolute discretion; provided, that if an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Administrative Agent may order additional Broker Price Opinions at the Borrowers’ expense. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the BPO Determined Value of any Property that is (x) not an Eligible Property (beyond the applicable Cure Period) or (y) an Aged Non-Stabilized Property, shall be zero, for all purposes of this Agreement, including for purposes of calculating the Loan to Value Ratio for such Property.
“BPO Reconciliation Process” means, in respect of any Property, the process pursuant to which a BPO Determined Value is adjusted in accordance with the terms hereof. A BPO Determined Value may be adjusted if the “as is” value presented in any Broker Price Opinion for a Property is not reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, the Majority Lenders or the Borrower Representative, and the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders, as applicable, notify the Borrower Representative thereof, in the case of an objection by the Majority Lenders, in accordance with Section 10.22 or the Borrower Representative notifies the Administrative Agent of its objection to the BPO Determined Value, in the case of an objection by the Borrower Representative. Any such objection shall be given by written notice by no later than the earlier of (x) ten (10) Business Days following receipt of the related Broker Price Opinion or (y) two (2) Business Days prior to the Borrowing Date of the related Loan in the case of a Broker Price Opinion for a Pending Advance Property. If an objection is properly given, the Administrative Agent shall request that the Diligence Agent reconsider the value for such Property. The Borrower Representative, the Administrative Agent and/or the objecting Majority Lenders shall be provided the opportunity to deliver additional information, including sales of comparable homes or other evidence of market value or a broker price opinion or appraisal (as applicable) from an independent third party, to the Administrative Agent in connection with any such reconsideration, and the Administrative Agent shall forward to the Diligence Agent any such additional information which the Administrative Agent has received within five (5) Business Days of the objection to the BPO Determined Value. The Administrative Agent will direct the Diligence Agent to deliver a final Broker Price Opinion within ten (10) Business Days of the objection to the BPO Determined Value and the BPO Determined Value set forth in such Broker Price Opinion shall be the BPO Determined Value for the applicable Property for purposes of this Agreement until a new BPO Determined Value is determined pursuant to the definition thereof. If the Administrative Agent, the Majority Lenders or the Borrower Representative objects to a BPO Determined Value with respect to any Pending Advance Property for the related Loan prior to the Borrowing Date therefor, then, unless the BPO Determined Value has been reconsidered by the Diligence Agent and the Diligence Agent has either confirmed its Broker Price Opinion or has issued a New Broker Price Opinion therefor prior to such Borrowing Date, such Pending Advanced Property shall be removed from the applicable Borrowing Request prior to disbursement of the Loan with respect thereto (without prejudice to including such Pending Advance Property in a subsequent Borrowing Request). For the avoidance of doubt, any changes in the BPO Determined Value made after the Borrowing Date with respect to the Loan for any Financed Property shall not affect the Allocated Loan Amount in respect of such Financed Property.
“BPO Value” means, with respect to any Property, the BPO Determined Value for such Property; provided that, in the case of any Stabilized Property which, at the time of the related Broker Price Opinion, was a Non-Stabilized Property, the “BPO Value” shall be based on the “as repaired” value (in lieu of the “as is” value) for such Property as set forth in the most recent Broker Price Opinion; provided further that, if the most recent Broker Price Opinion does not include an “as repaired” value, the Borrowers shall have the right to request that the Administrative Agent obtain, at the Borrowers’ expense, a new Broker Price Opinion from the Diligence Agent with respect to such Property (as adjusted pursuant to the BPO Reconciliation Process). Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the BPO Value of any Property that is (A) (I) not an Eligible Property (beyond the applicable Cure Period) or (II) an Aged Non-Stabilized Property, shall be zero, or (B) an Aged Development Property, shall be 50% of the “as is” value set forth in the Broker Price Opinion with respect to such Aged Development Property, for all purposes of this Agreement, including for purposes of calculating the Loan to Value Ratio for such Property.
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“Breakage Costs” shall have the meaning specified in Section 2.12.
“BRG Restructuring” means, as of the “Distribution Date,” the “Separation” of the “Company Remainco Business” from the “Spinco Business” pursuant to the “Separation Documentation” and completion of the “Distribution,” in each case as such terms are defined in the Merger Agreement.
“BRG Restructuring Conditions” means the occurrence (and delivery to the Administrative Agent of a certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower Representative certifying on behalf of the Borrowers of such occurrence) of each of the following:
| (a) | the “Separation Documentation” (as defined in the Merger Agreement), the transaction steps giving effect to the separation of the Company Remainco Business from the Spinco Business and the final corporate structure of the Replacement BRG Sponsor shall be completed and consistent with the provisions of the Merger Agreement; |
| (b) | the Replacement BRG Sponsor shall satisfy each of the Sponsor Financial Covenants applicable to the BRG Sponsor; |
| (c) | before and after giving effect to the BRG Restructuring and occurrence of the BRG Restructuring Effective Date (including replacement of the BRG Sponsor by the Replacement BRG Sponsor for all purposes), the representations and warranties contained in Section 4.01 (other than representations and warranties both inapplicable and unrelated to the BRG Replacement Sponsor and BRG Sponsor Replacement Documents and unaffected by the BRG Restructuring) are true and correct in all material respects (or in the case of any representation or warranty that by its terms is qualified by materiality, true and correct); |
| (d) | no event has occurred and is continuing (other than as may be unrelated to the BRG Replacement Sponsor and BRG Sponsor Replacement Documents and unaffected by the BRG Restructuring), or would result from the BRG Restructuring and occurrence of the BRG Restructuring Effective Date (including replacement of the BRG Sponsor by the Replacement BRG Sponsor for all purposes), which constitutes a Default or an Event of Default; and |
| (e) | the absence of any change, occurrence, or development that, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect after giving effect to the BRG Restructuring. |
“BRG Restructuring Effective Date” means the “Distribution Date,” as defined in the Merger Agreement.
“BRG Sponsor” means (i) prior to the BRG Restructuring Effective Date and the satisfaction of each of the BRG Restructuring Conditions, Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Initial BRG Sponsor”), and (ii) subject to Section 2.26, including the satisfaction of each of the BRG Restructuring Conditions, on and after the BRG Restructuring Effective Date, Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Replacement BRG Sponsor”).
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“BRG Sponsor Replacement Documents” means each of the following:
| (a) | the Replacement BRG Sponsor Guaranty; |
| (b) | a Legal Opinion and an Additional Insolvency Opinion, in each case with respect to the Replacement BRG Sponsor and the transactions contemplated by the Replacement BRG Sponsor Guaranty, this Agreement and the other Loan Documents to which the Replacement BRG Sponsor is a party; |
| (c) | an officer’s certificate of a Responsible Officer of the Replacement BRG Sponsor; |
| (d) | an updated Beneficial Ownership Certification; |
| (e) | to the extent not previously provided and approved in the Administrative Agent’s reasonable discretion, such documents concerning the Replacement BRG Sponsor as may be requested by the Administrative Agent or any Lender in connection with applicable “know your customer” and anti-money laundering rules and regulations. |
“BRG Sponsor Guaranty” means the Sponsor Guaranty, dated as of the Closing Date, executed by the BRG Sponsor in favor of the Administrative Agent, on behalf of the Lenders
“Broker Price Opinion” means with respect to (i) any SFR Property (other than any Property located in an Approved Single Plat Development), either, as determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion (or upon the written request to the Borrower Representative and Administrative Agent by any Lender if clause (y) below is required under applicable law with respect to such Lender in its good faith determination), (x) a broker price opinion obtained by the Administrative Agent from the Diligence Agent or (y) an Appraisal, and (ii) any Property located in an Approved Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, an Appraisal for the entire applicable Permitted Single Plat Development (which Appraisal shall constitute the Broker Price Opinion for all Properties located on such Approved Single Plat Development) or the entire Multi-Family Property, in each case, based solely on the residential units of such Property (unless the non-residential portions of such Property shall reduce such valuation, in which case such valuation shall be calculated net of such reductions). Broker Price Opinions shall include such information and comply with such guidelines (including under applicable law) as shall be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent.
“Business Day” means any day other than (i) a Saturday or a Sunday, (ii) a day on which the New York Stock Exchange or Federal Reserve is closed, (iii) a public holiday or the equivalent for banks in New York City, New York, or (iv) a day on which banking institutions in the State of Maryland or the State of New York are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to be closed.
“Business Plan” means a business plan for each relevant market in which the Borrowers intend to purchase and operate Eligible Properties, substantially in the form agreed on the Closing Date or such other form as may be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent and to which the Majority Lenders do not object within five (5) Business Days after the Lenders are notified thereof, or such shorter period in which the Majority Lenders consent thereto.
“CA Party” has the meaning specified in Section 2.20(d).
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“Calculation Agent” means Computershare, acting by or through its Corporate Trust division or department (including, as applicable, any agents or affiliates utilized thereby), or any replacement designated pursuant to Section 2.20(c).
“Calculation Agent Fee” means (a) with respect to the initial Calculation Agent appointed under this Agreement, an amount equal to $9,500.00 for each Monthly Payment Date and (b) with respect to any replacement calculation agent, such fee as shall be agreed by the Administrative Agent and, so long as no Event of Default then exists, with the consent of the Borrowers. In addition to the foregoing, Borrowers shall pay to the initial Calculation Agent on the Closing Date a one-time upfront fee equal to $10,000.00.
“Calculations” has the meaning specified in Section 2.20(a)(i).
“Cap Receipts” means all amounts received by a Borrower pursuant to an Interest Rate Cap Agreement.
“Capital Expenditures” means, for any period, the amount expended for items capitalized under GAAP (including expenditures for Renovation Expenses).
“Capital Lease Obligations” means, for any Person, all obligations of such Person to pay rent or other amounts under a lease of (or other agreement conveying the right to use) property to the extent such obligations are required to be classified and accounted for as a capital lease on a balance sheet of such Person under GAAP, and, for purposes of this Agreement, the amount of such obligations shall be the capitalized amount thereof, determined in accordance with GAAP.
“Carry-Over Property” means an Eligible Property that is (i) occupied by a Carry-Over Tenant at the time of acquisition of such Eligible Property by a Borrower or its Affiliate and is occupied by the same Carry-Over Tenant as of the date of the related Borrowing Request or (ii) occupied by an individual or individuals at the time of acquisition of such Eligible Property by a Borrower or its Affiliate and which individual or individuals subsequent to acquisition of such Property by such Borrower or its Affiliate enter into an Eligible Lease with such Borrower; provided that, any new or renewal Lease with such Carry-Over Tenant must be an Eligible Lease in order for such Property to continue to constitute a Carry-Over Property.
“Carry-Over Tenant” means (i) with respect to a Property described in clause (i) of the definition of “Carry-Over Property”, one or more individuals who, at the time of acquisition of such Property by a Borrower or its Affiliate and at the time of the related Borrowing Request with respect to such Property, occupy the related Property pursuant to a valid written Lease that is enforceable by the applicable Borrower and entered into on an arms-length basis without payment support by any Loan Party or its Affiliates and (ii) with respect to a Property described in clause (ii) of the definition of “Carry-Over Property”, one or more individuals who, at the time of acquisition of such Property by a Borrower or its Affiliate, occupy the related Property and, subsequent to such acquisition, enter into an Eligible Lease with the applicable Borrower that remains in full force and effect at the time of the related Borrowing Request with respect to such Property.
“Cash Management Trigger Condition” shall exist if (i) an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing or (ii) as of any date of determination, (a) the Loan to Value Ratio for all Financed Properties is greater than 70.0%, (b) the Loan to Cost Ratio for all Financed Properties is greater than 75.0%, (c) the aggregate Debt Yield with respect to all Financed Properties in the aggregate is less than 6.50% or (d) the aggregate Debt Service Coverage Ratio with respect to all Financed Properties is less than 1.30:1.00.
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“Casualty” means the damage or destruction of a Property, in whole or in part, by fire or other casualty.
“Change in Law” means the occurrence, after the date of this Agreement, of any of the following: (a) the adoption or taking effect of any law, rule, regulation or treaty, (b) any change in any law, rule, regulation or treaty or in the administration, interpretation, implementation or application thereof by any Governmental Authority, (c) adjustments to the Regulation D reserve requirements (including, without limitation, all basic, marginal, emergency, supplemental, special or other reserves and taking into account any transitional adjustments or other scheduled changes in reserve requirements) announced by the Board or (d) the making or issuance of any request, rule, guideline or directive (whether or not having the force of law) by any Governmental Authority; provided that notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, (i) the Dodd-Frank Wall Act and all requests, rules, guidelines or directives thereunder or issued in connection therewith and (ii) all requests, rules, guidelines or directives promulgated by the Bank for International Settlements, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (or any successor or similar authority) or the United States or foreign regulatory authorities, in each case pursuant to Basel III, shall in each case be deemed to be a “Change in Law”, regardless of the date enacted, adopted or issued (regardless of whether currently in force and effect).
“Change of Control” means any of the following:
(i) Sponsors shall cease to own directly or indirectly one hundred percent (100%) of the issued and outstanding Equity Interests of each Equity Owner free and clear of all Adverse Claims;
(ii) any Equity Owner shall cease to own directly one hundred percent (100%) of the issued and outstanding Equity Interests of its subsidiary Borrower (or the Equity Owners shall, collectively, cease to own directly one hundred percent (100%) of the issued and outstanding Equity Interests of all Borrowers) free and clear of all Adverse Claims;
(iii) any Equity Owner shall cease to own directly one hundred percent (100%) of the issued and outstanding Equity Interests of its subsidiary TRS Borrower, if any (or the Equity Owners shall, collectively, cease to own directly one hundred percent (100%) of the issued and outstanding Equity Interests of all TRS Borrowers) free and clear of all Adverse Claims;
(iv) any transaction or series of transactions whereby any Person or Persons acting in concert (other than Sponsors) acquire the right, directly or indirectly, by contract or otherwise, to Control any Loan Party, unless otherwise consented to by the Administrative Agent and the Supermajority Lenders in their respective sole discretion; or
(v) applicable only to the three (3) month period following the BRG Restructuring Effective Date, the BRG Replacement Sponsor shall cease to be managed, directly or indirectly through management entities, by substantially the same executive management personnel currently responsible for the management of the Initial BRG Sponsor, it being understood that individual personnel changes occurring in the ordinary course from time to time shall not constitute a change in such executive management personnel.
Notwithstanding the foregoing or, subject to compliance with Section 2.16, anything else to the contrary contained in this Agreement, (i) any transfer by an Equity Owner of all of its Equity Interests in any Borrower in connection with a Refinancing shall not constitute a Change of Control and (ii) so long as all BRG Restructuring Conditions and clause (v) above have been satisfied, the BRG Restructuring shall not constitute a Change of Control.
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“Closing Date” means April 6, 2022.
“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
“Collateral” means, collectively, all of the real, personal and mixed property (including Financed Properties (or with respect to any Property in an Approved Single Plat Development, all Properties located in such Approved Single Plat Development)) in which Liens are purported to be granted pursuant to the Collateral Documents as security for the Obligations.
“Collateral Agent” means any Person appointed by the Administrative Agent to act as collateral agent for the Secured Parties with respect to the Mortgages granted in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, together with its successors and permitted assigns.
“Collateral Assignment” means a collateral assignment of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement made by Pkg 10a Recap, LLC in favor of the Administrative Agent and acknowledged by Counterparty, or as applicable, Approved Counterparty, pursuant to an Acknowledgment.
“Collateral Documents” means the Borrower Security Agreement, the Equity Owner Security Agreement, the Securities Account Control Agreement, each Property Account Control Agreement, each Operating Account Control Agreement, each Assignment of Management Agreement, the Mortgages, and all other instruments, documents and agreements delivered by any Loan Party pursuant to this Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents in order to grant to the Administrative Agent or, with respect to the Mortgages, the Collateral Agent, for the benefit of Secured Parties, a Lien on any real, personal or mixed property of that Loan Party as security for the Obligations.
“Collection Account” means the account identified as the “Collection Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 as a replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative. The Collection Account shall be an Eligible Account.
“Collections” means, without duplication, with respect to any Financed Property, all Rents, Insurance Proceeds (subject to the rights of the Borrowers pursuant to Section 5.04(h) to retain and/or apply any such Insurance Proceeds), Transfer Proceeds in accordance with Section 2.16(a)(iv), Refinancing Proceeds in accordance with Section 2.16(a)(iv), Awards, Cap Receipts, interest on amounts on deposit in the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and the Reserve Accounts, amounts paid to a Borrower with respect to a Financed Property pursuant to the terms of the applicable Purchase Agreement, amounts paid by a Borrower to the Collection Account pursuant to this Agreement, and all other payments received with respect to such Financed Property and all “proceeds” (as defined in Section 9-102 of the UCC) of the foregoing, in each case, as set forth in a Monthly Borrower Report.
“Commitment” of any Lender means the Dollar amount set forth on Schedule II hereto as such Lender’s “Commitment” or, in the case of a Lender that becomes a party to this Agreement pursuant to an Assignment and Acceptance, the amount set forth therein as such Lender’s “Commitment”, in each case as such amount may be reduced or increased by any Assignment and Acceptance entered into by such Lender and the other parties thereto in accordance with the terms hereof or as such amount may be reduced pursuant to Section 2.24.
“Commitment Fee” means, in respect of any Lender, any fees payable on the Closing Date to such Lender in its capacity as a Lender under this Agreement which represent a percentage of its Commitment as in effect on the Closing Date, as such fees are agreed upon between the Borrowers and such Lender.
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“Comparable Units” is defined in the definition of “Qualified Property Manager”.
“Completion Requirements” means, in respect of any Non-Stabilized Property, that (i) all Scheduled Renovation Work for such Property has been completed in a good and workmanlike manner and in accordance with all applicable Legal Requirements, in each case, in all material respects, (ii) such Property satisfies the Renovation Standards in all material respects and is in a good, safe and habitable condition, and (iii) such Property has been leased to the initial Eligible Tenant pursuant to an Eligible Lease and all leasing costs and commissions in respect to such initial leasing have been paid in full.
“Completion Requirements Certification” has the meaning specified in Section 3.03(h).
“Compliance Certificate” means the certificate in the form attached hereto as Exhibit K.
“Computershare” means Computershare Trust Company, N.A., and any successor in interest or replacement thereof
“Condemnation” means a temporary or permanent taking by any Governmental Authority as the result or in lieu or in anticipation of the exercise of the right of condemnation or eminent domain, of all or any part of any Financed Property, or any interest therein or right accruing thereto, including any right of access thereto.
“Conforming Changes” means, with respect to either the use or administration of Term SOFR or the use, administration, adoption or implementation of any Alternate Index Rate, any technical, administrative or operational changes (including, without limitation, changes to the definitions of “Business Day”, “Interest Determination Date”, “Monthly Payment Date”, “Settlement Period” and “U.S. Government Securities Business Day”, preceding and succeeding business day conventions, rounding of amounts, the timing and frequency of determining rates and making payments of interest, the applicability and length of lookback periods, and other technical, administrative or operational matters) that the Administrative Agent determines, from time to time, may be appropriate to reflect the adoption and implementation of any such rate or to permit the use and administration thereof by the Administrative Agent in a manner substantially consistent with market practice for U.S. dollar-denominated floating rate balance sheet loans (or, if the Administrative Agent determines that adoption of any portion of such market practice is not administratively feasible or if the Administrative Agent or its designee determines that no market practice for the use and administration of such rate exists, in such other manner as the Administrative Agent determines is reasonably necessary).
“Connection Income Taxes” means Other Connection Taxes that are imposed on or measured by net income (however denominated) or that are franchise Taxes or branch profits Taxes.
“Constituent Document” means, (i) with respect to any partnership (whether limited or general), (a) the certificate of partnership (or equivalent filings), (b) the partnership agreement (or equivalent organizational documents) of such partnership and (c) any document setting forth the designation, amount and/or rights, limitations and preferences of any of such partnership’s partnership interests or the holders thereof; (ii) with respect to any limited liability company, (a) the certificate of formation (or the equivalent organizational documents) of such entity, (b) the operating agreement (or the equivalent governing documents) of such entity and (c) any document setting forth the designation, amount and/or rights, limitations and preferences of any of such limited liability company’s membership interests or the holders thereof; (iii) with respect to any statutory trust, (a) the certificate of trust or declaration of trust (or equivalent filings), (b) the trust agreement (or equivalent governing instrument) or any other document which creates such trust or governs its affairs and (c) any document setting forth the ownership, powers, rights and limitations of any owner of beneficial interests in such trust; and (iv) with respect to any other type of entity, the organizational and governing document for such entity which are equivalent to those described in clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) above, as applicable.
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“Control” has the meaning set forth in the definition of Affiliate.
“Converted Property” means, as of any date of determination, any Property that was a Non-Stabilized Property at the time such Property became a Financed Property and that is a Stabilized Property on such date of determination. For the avoidance of doubt, no Property that was at any point in time a Carry-Over Property may constitute a Converted Property unless otherwise approved in writing by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion.
“Converted Property Reserve Release Conditions” means the conditions set forth on Schedule IV hereto.
“Counterparty” means, with respect to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, the Approved Counterparty under the Initial Interest Rate Cap Agreement described in Section 5.03, and with respect to any Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement, any Approved Counterparty thereunder.
“Covered Entity” has the meaning specified in Section 7.01(p).
“Covered Party” has the meaning assigned to it in Section 10.27.
“Covered Person” means any of the following:
(i) a “covered entity” as that term is defined in, and interpreted in accordance with, 12 C.F.R. § 252.82(b);
(ii) a “covered bank” as that term is defined in, and interpreted in accordance with, 12 C.F.R. § 47.3(b); or
(iii) a “covered FSI” as that term is defined in, and interpreted in accordance with, 12 C.F.R. § 382.2(b).
“Covered State” means, as of any date of determination, any state with respect to which the Administrative Agent has received an HOA Opinion dated not more than twelve (12) months prior to such date.
“Crowd Funded Person” means a Person that is capitalized through the practice of syndication, advertising or general or broad solicitation, which capitalization is achieved primarily (i) in reliance upon Regulation Crowdfunding promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and/or (ii) through internet-mediated registries, platforms or similar portals, mail-order subscriptions, benefit events and/or other similar methods.
“Cure Period” means, with respect to the failure of any Financed Property to qualify as an Eligible Property, if such failure is reasonably susceptible of cure in the Administrative Agent’s reasonable discretion, a period of thirty (30) days after the earlier of knowledge of such condition by the Borrowers or notice thereof by the Administrative Agent to the Borrower Representative and if such failure is reasonably susceptible to cure, but not within such thirty (30) day period, as determined by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion, then the applicable Borrower shall have an additional sixty (60) days to cure such failure provided that such Borrower diligently pursues such cure; provided, however that if (x) the Obligations have been accelerated pursuant to Section 7.02 or (y) a Financed Property fails to qualify as an Eligible Property due to the occurrence of a Prohibited Action, then the cure period hereunder shall be reduced to zero (0) days. If any failure of any Financed Property to qualify as an Eligible Property is not reasonably susceptible of cure, as determined by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion, then no cure period shall be available.
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“Debt Service” means, with respect to any Property or group of Properties and with respect to the relevant measurement period, the scheduled interest payments due under this Agreement with respect to the outstanding Allocated Loan Amount for such Property or group of Properties.
“Debt Service Account” means the account identified as the “Debt Service Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 in replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative. The Debt Service Account shall be an Eligible Account.
“Debt Service Coverage Ratio” means, with respect to any Property or group of Properties as of any date, the ratio of: (a) the Underwritten Net Cash Flow for such Property or group of Properties for the twelve-month period ending on such date to (b) interest on the outstanding aggregate Allocated Loan Amount for such Property or group of Properties calculated based on a twelve-month period at a rate per annum equal to the sum of (x) the Term SOFR Rate, plus (y) the Spread.
“Debt Service Reserves” has the meaning specified in Section 6.04.
“Debt Service Reserves Account” means the account identified as the “Debt Service Reserves Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 in replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative. The Debt Service Reserves Account shall be an Eligible Account.
“Debt Yield” means, with respect to any Property or group of Properties for the relevant measurement period, a fraction expressed as a percentage, (i) the numerator of which is the Underwritten Net Cash Flow for such Property or group of Properties for the relevant measurement period and (ii) the denominator of which is the outstanding aggregate Allocated Loan Amount for such Property or group of Properties.
“Default” means any event which, with the giving of notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute an Event of Default.
“Default Rate” means a rate per annum equal to the lesser of (i) the Maximum Legal Rate and (ii) three percent (3%) above the Interest Rate.
“Default Right” has the meaning assigned to that term in, and shall be interpreted in accordance with, 12 C.F.R. §§ 252.81, 47.2 or 382.1, as applicable.
“Defaulting Lender” means any Lender that, as determined by the Administrative Agent: (i) has failed to fund any of its obligations to make Loans within three (3) Business Days of the date required to be funded by it hereunder, unless such Lender notifies the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative in writing that such failure is the result of such Lender’s determination that one or more conditions precedent to funding (each of which conditions precedent, together with any applicable default, shall be specifically identified in such writing) has not been satisfied, (ii) has notified the Administrative Agent or the Borrower Representative that it does not intend to comply with such funding obligations or has made a public statement to that effect with respect to such funding obligations hereunder or under other agreements in which it commits to extend credit (unless such writing or public statement relates to such Lender’s obligation to fund a Loan hereunder and states that such position is based on such Lender’s determination that a condition precedent to funding (which condition precedent, together with any applicable default, shall be specifically identified in such writing or public statement) cannot be satisfied), (iii) such Lender has, for three (3) or more Business Days, failed, in good faith, to confirm in writing to the Administrative Agent, in response to a written request of the Administrative Agent, that it will comply with its funding obligations hereunder (provided that such Lender shall cease to be a Defaulting Lender pursuant to this clause (iii) upon receipt of such written confirmation by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative) or (iv) has, or has a direct or indirect parent company that has, become subject to an Event of Bankruptcy or has become the subject of a Bail-In Action; provided, that a Lender shall not be deemed to be a Defaulting Lender hereunder solely by virtue of any control of or ownership interest in, or the acquisition of any ownership interest in, such Lender (or its direct or indirect parent company) or the exercise of control over such Lender (or its direct or indirect parent company) by a Governmental Authority thereof if and for so long as such ownership interest does not result in or provide such Lender (or its direct or indirect parent company) with immunity from the jurisdiction of courts within the United States or from the enforcement of judgments or writs of attachment on its assets or permit such Lender (or its direct or indirect parent company) or allows such Governmental Authority to reject, repudiate, disavow or disaffirm obligations such as those under this Agreement. Any determination that a Lender is a Defaulting Lender under clauses (i) through (iv) above will be made by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion acting in good faith. The Administrative Agent will promptly send to all parties hereto a copy of any notice to the Borrower Representative provided for in this definition.
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“Deficiency” means, with respect to any Property File, (i) the failure of one or more Specified Documents contained therein to be fully executed or to match the information on the related Properties Schedule, as applicable, (ii) one or more Specified Documents contained therein are mutilated or materially damaged, torn or otherwise materially physically altered such that the same is unreadable or (iii) the absence from a Property File of any Specified Document required to be contained in such Property File.
“Delaware LLC Act” means, Chapter 18 of the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act, 6 Del. C. §§ 18-101 et seq., as amended.
“Delinquent Tenant” means (i) in the case of Section 8 Housing Tenants, a Section 8 Housing Tenant with respect to which eighty percent (80%) or more of any individual rent payment under a related Lease remains unpaid for more than 31 days after the original due date for such rent payment and (ii) in the case of any other Tenants, a Tenant whose rent payment under a related Lease remains unpaid in whole or in part for more than 31 days after the original due date for such rent payment.
“Diligence Agent” means, as of any date of determination, collectively, Radian Real Estate Management, LLC (formerly known as Green River Capital, LLC), and/or one or more other Persons designated by the Administrative Agent by written notice to the Borrower Representative and the Lenders at such date to be a “Diligence Agent.” The Diligence Agent may be removed upon at least 30 days’ prior written notice (or such shorter period as shall be acceptable to the Diligence Agent) by the Administrative Agent or, if a Diligence Agent Removal Event has occurred, the Majority Lenders, delivered to the Diligence Agent, the Lenders and the Borrower Representative; provided, however, in each case, that such removal shall not be effective until a successor Diligence Agent acceptable to the Administrative Agent has been selected.
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“Diligence Agent Certification” means, in respect of any Property or group of Properties, a certification of the Diligence Agent that it has performed the applicable diligence services for such Property or Properties under a service agreement between the Diligence Agent and the Administrative Agent relating to the Transactions.
“Diligence Agent Fee” means all fees payable to the Diligence Agent pursuant to that certain Valuation Services Agreement dated as of the Closing Date, between the Administrative Agent and Radian Real Estate Management, LLC, as Diligence Agent, or pursuant to any replacement valuation services agreement between the Administrative Agent and the Person then acting as the Diligence Agent hereunder. The approval of the Borrower Representative (not to be unreasonably withheld) shall be required in connection with any amendment or modification of the above referenced Valuation Services Agreement or any replacement valuation services agreement if such amendment, modification or replacement results in any material increase in any fee category.
“Diligence Agent Removal Event” shall have occurred in respect of a Person then serving as the Diligence Agent under this Agreement if either of the following events has occurred:
(a) the Diligence Agent, or any of its agents, servants or employees, or other persons under its direction or control, shall have engaged, in the reasonable judgment of the Majority Lenders, in any actions or omissions that constitute a material breach of contract, malfeasance, willful misconduct or gross negligence, in each case, in connection with performing the functions expected to be performed by them under this Agreement or any servicing agreement between the Administrative Agent and the Diligence Agent; or
(b) the Diligence Agent shall have become subject to an Event of Bankruptcy.
“Disbursement Account” means the account identified as the “Disbursement Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 in replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and Borrower Representative. The Disbursement Account shall be an Eligible Account.
“Disqualified Person” means any Person (i) that is a Crowd Funded Person, a DST or that is Controlled by a Crowd Funded Person or a DST, or in which a Crowd Funded Person or a DST owns any direct or indirect ownership interest, or (ii) that owns (or, in connection with a proposed Transfer, proposes to own) any direct or indirect interest in any Borrower, any other Loan Party, or any prospective transferee of any Property or Single Plat Development through a tenancy-in-common or other similar form of ownership.
“Disqualified Property” means any Financed Property that no longer qualifies as an Eligible Property.
“Dividing LLC” means, a Delaware limited liability company that is effecting a Division pursuant to and in accordance with Section 18-217 of the Delaware LLC Act.
“Division” means, the division of a Dividing LLC into two or more domestic limited liability companies pursuant to and in accordance with Section 18-217 of the Delaware LLC Act.
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“Dodd-Frank Act” means the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, Pub. L. No. 111-203 and any successor statute.
“Dollars” and “$” each mean the lawful currency of the United States of America.
“DST” means a trust formed under Chapter 38 of Title 12 of the Delaware Code, 12 Del. Code §§ 3801 et seq., or any successor statute thereto, in each case, as amended from time to time, or any similar statutory trust formed under the law of any other state.
“EEA Financial Institution” means (a) any credit institution or investment firm established in any EEA Member Country which is subject to the supervision of an EEA Resolution Authority, (b) any entity established in an EEA Member Country which is a parent of an institution described in clause (a) of this definition, or (c) any financial institution established in an EEA Member Country which is a subsidiary of an institution described in clauses (a) or (b) of this definition and is subject to consolidated supervision with its parent.
“EEA Member Country” means any of the member states of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.
“EEA Resolution Authority” means any public administrative authority or any person entrusted with public administrative authority of any EEA Member Country (including any delegee) having responsibility for the resolution of any EEA Financial Institution.
“Eligible Account” means any account established and maintained at a Qualified Institution and subject to a Securities Account Control Agreement. If at any time the depository institution, trust company, or national banking association at which an Eligible Account is maintained shall no longer be a Qualified Institution, the Paying Agent shall (within thirty (30) calendar days) move such Eligible Account to a Qualified Institution.
“Eligible Lease” means, as of any date of determination, a Lease for a Financed Property or Pending Advance Property that satisfies, and has been certified by the Borrowers prior to such date of determination as satisfying, all of the following:
(i) the Lease reflects customary market standard terms for the metropolitan statistical area of the Financed Property or Pending Advance Property;
(ii) the Lease is entered into on an arms-length basis without payment support by any Borrower or its Affiliates;
(iii) the Lease had, as of its commencement date, an initial lease term of at least six months;
(iv) the Lease is consistent with the Borrowers’ internal leasing guidelines; and
(v) the Lease is in compliance with all applicable laws in all material respects.
“Eligible Property” means, as of any date of determination, a Property that satisfies, and has been certified by the Borrowers prior to such date of determination as satisfying, each of the criteria set forth on Schedule I.
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“Eligible Tenant” means a Tenant who, as of the date such Tenant signs the related Lease, is a bona fide third party lessee of a Financed Property or Pending Advance Property who satisfies, and has been certified by the Borrowers prior to such date of determination as satisfying, each of the following criteria:
(i) such Tenant’s Rent expense for the following 12 month period is not greater than 40% of such Tenant’s Gross Tenant Income for the preceding 12 month period (as verified by the Borrowers based upon a reasonable and customary inquiry by the applicable Borrower immediately prior to the date such Tenant signs the related Lease); provided, however, that the requirement in this clause (i) shall not apply to any Tenant if such Tenant is a Section 8 Housing Tenant whose rental assistance payments continue to be received by the applicable Borrower from the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”);
(ii) such Tenant is not subject to an ongoing Event of Bankruptcy;
(iii) if the Tenant pays all or a portion of any Rent with vouchers provided by the HUD housing choice voucher program, commonly referred to as “Section 8”, the Borrowers (or the applicable Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager, as applicable, on behalf of the Loan Parties) shall have received the applicable vouchers and paperwork necessary to receive such payments directly from HUD; and
(iv) such Tenant otherwise conforms to the Borrowers’ internal tenant leasing criteria;
provided that any material reduction in Borrowers’ credit standards set forth in Borrowers’ internal leasing criteria for Tenants or co-signers shall be notified to the Administrative Agent and, if such reduction is materially below what is customary for public institutional investors in single-family rental properties in the applicable Market, then the Administrative Agent shall notify the Borrowers within five (5) Business Days of such conclusion, and Tenants or co-signers not satisfying such customary standards shall not be deemed Eligible Tenants unless the Administrative Agent otherwise approves such Tenant in writing, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed; provided, further, that if the Administrative Agent fails to respond to any notice of reduction in leasing criteria within five (5) Business Days of receipt of such notice, the Administrative Agent shall be deemed to have agreed that such reduction is not materially below what is customary for public institutional investors in the applicable Market.
“Embargoed Person” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(v)(iii).
“Engineering Report” means, with respect to any Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, a written report prepared by an independent third party engineer based on a property condition assessment of such Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, a written report prepared by an independent third party engineer based on a property condition assessment of such Property delivered to the Administrative Agent in connection with the Loan in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
“Environmental Indemnity” means that certain Environmental Indemnity Agreement, dated as of the Closing Date, executed by each Loan Party and each Sponsor in favor of the Administrative Agent, on behalf of the Lenders.
“Environmental Laws” means any present and future federal, state and local laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations and the like, as well as common law, relating to protection of human health or the environment from Hazardous Substances, relating to Hazardous Substances and/or relating to liability for or costs of other actual or threatened danger to human health or the environment from Hazardous Substances. The term “Environmental Laws” includes, but is not limited to, the following statutes, as amended, any successor thereto, and any regulations promulgated pursuant thereto, and any state or local statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations and the like addressing similar issues: the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act; the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act; the Hazardous Substances Transportation Act; the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (including, but not limited to, Subtitle I relating to underground storage tanks); the Solid Waste Disposal Act; the Clean Water Act; the Clean Air Act; the Toxic Substances Control Act; the Safe Drinking Water Act; the Occupational Safety and Health Act (as it relates to Hazardous Substances); the Federal Water Pollution Control Act; the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act; the Endangered Species Act; the National Environmental Policy Act; the River and Harbors Appropriation Act; and those relating to lead-based paint. The term “Environmental Laws” also includes, but is not limited to, any present and future federal, state and local laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations and the like, as well as common law, conditioning transfer of property upon a negative declaration or other approval of a Governmental Authority of the environmental condition of any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development; requiring notification or disclosure of the presence of or Releases of Hazardous Substances or other environmental condition of any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development to any Governmental Authority or other Person, whether or not in connection with any transfer of title to or interest in such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development; imposing conditions or requirements in connection with permits or other authorization for lawful activity associated with the presence of Hazardous Substances; relating to nuisance, trespass or other causes of action related to any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development associated with the presence of Hazardous Substances; and relating to wrongful death, personal injury or property or other damage in connection with any physical condition or use of any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development associated with the presence of Hazardous Substances.
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“Environmental Liability” means any liability, contingent or otherwise (including any liability for damages, costs of environmental remediation, fines, penalties or indemnities), of any Loan Party directly or indirectly resulting from or based upon (i) violation of any Environmental Law, (ii) the generation, use, handling, transportation, storage, treatment or disposal of any Hazardous Substance, (iii) exposure to any Hazardous Substance, (iv) the release or threatened release of any Hazardous Substance into the environment or (v) any contract, agreement or other consensual arrangement pursuant to which liability is assumed or imposed with respect to any of the foregoing.
“Environmental Report” means, with respect to any Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, a written report prepared by an independent third party engineer based on a property condition assessment of such Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, a written report providing an environmental assessment of such Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property delivered to the Administrative Agent in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
“Equity Interests” means, with respect to any Person, the legal and beneficial interests in shares of capital stock, partnership interests, membership interests, beneficial interests or other equity ownership interests in such Person, and any warrants, options or other rights entitling the holder thereof to purchase or acquire any such equity interest from such Person.
“Equity Owners” means Pkg 10 Pledgor, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and each other direct or indirect subsidiary of a Sponsor that has been approved in writing by the Administrative Agent (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld) after a written request by the Borrower Representative and added as an Equity Owner hereunder in accordance with Section 5.01(s), each of which shall be an “Equity Owner”.
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“Equity Owner Guaranty” means the guaranty, dated as of the Closing Date, executed by each Equity Owner in favor of the Administrative Agent, on behalf of the Lenders.
“Equity Owner Security Agreement” means the security agreement, dated as the Closing Date, among the Equity Owners and the Administrative Agent.
“ERISA” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended from time to time, or any successor statute.
“ERISA Affiliate” means any corporation or trade or business that is a member of any group of organizations (i) described in Section 414(b) or (c) of the Code of which another entity is a member or (ii) described in Section 414(m) or (o) of the Code of which another entity is a member, except that this clause (ii) shall apply solely for purposes of potential liability under Section 302(b) of ERISA and Section 412(b) of the Code and the lien created under Section 303(k) of ERISA and Section 430(k) of the Code.
“ERISA Event” means (i) the failure by a Sponsor, Loan Party, or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates to pay a minimum required contribution or installment to a Plan on or before the due date provided under Section 430 of the Code, (ii) the filing by a Sponsor, Loan Party, or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates of an application with respect to a Plan for a waiver of the minimum funding standard under Section 412(c) of the Code or Section 302(c) of ERISA, (iii) the failure of a Sponsor, a Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates to pay a required contribution or installment to a Multiemployer Plan on or before the applicable due date, (iv) any officer of any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates knows or has reason to know that a Plan is in “at risk” status within the meaning of Section 430(i) of the Code or (v) the occurrence of a Plan Termination Event and any action that any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates proposes to take with respect thereto, together with a copy of any notices received from or filed with PBGC, IRS, Multiemployer Plan or Plan pertaining thereto.
“ERISA Plan” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(g).
“Erroneous Payment” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.09(a).
“Erroneous Payment Notice” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.09(b).
“EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule” means the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule published by the Loan Market Association (or any successor person), as in effect from time to time.
“EU Securitization Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/2402, as amended.
“EU Securitization Rules” means (a) the EU Securitization Regulation; (b) any supplementary regulatory technical standards, implementing technical standards and any official guidance published in relation thereto by the European Supervisory Authorities or by the European Commission, and any implementing laws or regulations in force on the date hereof; and (c) each amendment or modification thereto approved by the parties hereto for purposes of this definition, each to the extent legally binding in the Member State of a Lender and in each case as determined or imposed by any regulatory body having supervisory authority over any Lender.
“European Supervisory Authorities” means, together, the European Banking Authority, the European Securities and Markets Authority and the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (in each case, including any successor or replacement organization thereto).
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“Event of Bankruptcy” means, with respect to any Person:
(i) such Person shall fail generally to pay its debts as they come due, or shall make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or any case or other proceeding shall be instituted by such Person seeking to adjudicate it as bankrupt or insolvent, or seeking liquidation, reorganization, debt arrangement, dissolution, winding up, or composition or readjustment of debts of it or its debts under the Bankruptcy Code; or such Person shall take any corporate, limited partnership or limited liability company action to authorize any of such actions; or
(ii) a case or other proceeding shall be commenced, without the application or consent of such Person in any court seeking the liquidation, reorganization, debt arrangement, dissolution, winding up, or composition or readjustment of debts of such Person, the appointment of a trustee, receiver, custodian, liquidator, assignee, sequestrator or the like for such Person or all or substantially all of its assets, or any similar action with respect to such Person under the Bankruptcy Code, and (A) such case or proceeding shall continue undismissed, or unstayed and in effect, for a period of ninety (90) consecutive days or (B) an order for relief in respect of such Person shall be entered in such case or proceeding or a decree or order granting such other requested relief shall be entered.
“Event of Default” has the meaning assigned to that term in Section 7.01.
“Excess Insurance Reserves” has the meaning specified in Section 6.06(b).
“Excess Tax Reserves” has the meaning specified in Section 6.05(b).
“Excluded Taxes” means any of the following Taxes imposed on or with respect to an Affected Party or required to be withheld or deducted from a payment to an Affected Party, (i) Taxes imposed on or measured by net income (however denominated), franchise Taxes, and branch profits Taxes, in each case, (A) imposed as a result of such Affected Party being organized under the laws of, or having its principal office or, in the case of any Lender, its applicable lending office located in, the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (or any political subdivision thereof) or (B) that are Other Connection Taxes, (ii) in the case of a Lender, U.S. federal withholding Taxes imposed on amounts payable to or for the account of such Lender with respect to an applicable interest in a Loan or Commitment pursuant to a law in effect on the date on which (A) such Lender acquires such interest in the Loan or Commitment (other than pursuant to an assignment request by a Borrower under Section 2.22) or (B) such Lender changes its lending office, except in each case to the extent that, pursuant to Section 2.13, amounts with respect to such Taxes were payable either to such Lender’s assignor immediately before such Lender became a party hereto or to such Lender immediately before it changed its lending office, (iii) Taxes attributable to such Affected Party’s failure to comply with Section 2.13(f) and (iv) any withholding Taxes imposed under FATCA.
“Executive Order 13224” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(v)(ii).
“Existing Management Agreements” means, collectively, (a) each agreement set forth on Schedule V hereto, pursuant to which the Existing Property Manager is to provide property management and other services with respect to the Properties and (b) that certain Assignment of Management Agreement, dated as of the Closing Date, by the Borrowers and the Existing Property Manager.
“Existing Property Manager” means 7000 Prime LLC d/b/a Peak Property Management, a Texas limited liability company.
“Extension Fees” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.08.
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“Extension Request” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.08.
“Extension Term” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.08.
“FATCA” means Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, as of the date of this Agreement (or any amended or successor version that is substantively comparable and not materially more onerous to comply with), any current or future regulations or official interpretations thereof, any agreements entered into pursuant to Section 1471(b)(1) of the Code and any fiscal or regulatory legislation, rules or practices adopted pursuant to any intergovernmental agreement, treaty or convention among Governmental Authorities and implementing such Sections of the Code.
“Fee Letters” means, collectively, the fee letters among the Borrowers and one or more of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, as such fee letters may be amended or otherwise modified from time to time.
“Fees” means, collectively, the Commitment Fee, the Unused Fee, the Extension Fees, the Administrative Fee, the Calculation Agent Fee, the Diligence Agent Fee (as specified in writing by the Administrative Agent to the Calculation Agent and the Borrower Representative), the Paying Agent Fee, any Minimum Yield Fee, any other fee described in the Fee Letter and any other fees (as specified in writing to the Calculation Agent) due to the Administrative Agent, the Lenders, the Collateral Agent or any Servicing Agent hereunder or under the Loan Documents.
“Final Borrowing Request” means a Borrowing Request pursuant to which a Final Report is obtained.
“Final Collection Date” means the date on which the Administrative Agent shall have confirmed in writing that the Aggregate Commitment has been terminated, the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance has been reduced to zero and all other Obligations have been paid in full (other than indemnification or other contingent obligations not then due and owing).
“Final Report” means a Loan Report of the Calculation Agent setting forth the results of any applicable calculations required in connection with a Borrowing Request, which results identify no exceptions as to the related calculations.
“Financed Properties” means, with respect to any Loan, all Properties that were financed by such Loan under this Agreement where the Allocated Loan Amount for each such Property is greater than zero, or any interest, Fees or other Obligations related thereto that are required to be paid on or prior to the date when the Allocated Loan Amount for such Property is required to be repaid remain outstanding.
“Financed Single Plat Development” means, with respect to any Financed Property located in a Single Plat Development, the Single Plat Development in which such Financed Property is located.
“FIRREA” means the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989, as amended, restated or modified from time to time, including all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, including the FIRREA Guidelines.
“FIRREA Guidelines” means the Interagency Appraisal and Evaluation Guidelines, Federal Register Vol. 75, No. 237, December 10, 2010, page 77450, which can be found at https;//www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2010-12-10/pdf/2010-30913.pdf, as the same may be amended or modified from time to time by the applicable regulatory bodies and as in effect as of the date of the related appraisal.
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“First Extension Term” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.08.
“Flood Hazard Determination” means, with respect to any Property or Single Plat Development, a Federal Emergency Management Agency Standard Flood Hazard Determination (ordered by the Borrower Representative, or on its behalf, by a national third-party flood hazard determination service provider or flood hazard data service provider, such as CoreLogic or Lereta) with respect to such Property or Single Plat Development, duly acknowledged by the Borrower Representative.
“Flood Insurance Laws” means the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, as amended by the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994, and in each case, any subsequent amendments thereafter, and the requirements of any regulations promulgated thereunder, including, but not limited to, those implemented by the Office of Comptroller of the Currency at 12 C.F.R. 22.1 et seq.
“Foreign Lender” means a Lender that is not a U.S. Person.
“Foreign Plan” means any “employee benefit plan” as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA that (a) neither is subject to ERISA nor is a governmental plan within the meaning of Section 3(32) of ERISA and that is maintained, or contributed to, by any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates and (b) is mandated by a government other than the United States (other than a state within the United States or an instrumentality thereof) for employees of any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates.
“Formal Objection” has the meaning specified in Section 10.22(b).
“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles as in effect in the United States from time to time, consistently applied.
“Government Lists” has the meaning specified in Section 4.01(v)(ii).
“Governmental Authority” means, with respect to any Person, any nation or government, any state or other political subdivision thereof, any entity exercising executive, legislative, judicial, taxing, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government and any court or arbitrator having jurisdiction over such Person, any of its Subsidiaries or any of its properties.
“GPR” with respect to any multi-unit Property, the sum of (i) annualized actual in place rents under bona fide residential Leases at such multi-unit Property and (ii) annualized market rents (as determined by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion) for units of such multi-unit Property that are Vacant as of the applicable date of calculation.
“Gross Tenant Income” means, with respect to any Tenant, income earned before taxes and other deductions, including income from self-employment, rental property, alimony, child support, public assistance payments received by such Tenant in cash or paid directly to the applicable Borrower in cash, and retirement benefits.
“Guarantee” means, as to any Person, any obligation of such person directly or indirectly guaranteeing any Indebtedness or other obligations of any other Person in any manner providing for the payment of any Indebtedness or other obligations of any other Person or otherwise protecting the holder of such Indebtedness or other obligations against loss (whether by virtue of partnership arrangements, by agreement to keep well, to purchase assets, goods, securities or services, or take or pay or otherwise); provided that the term “Guarantee” shall not include customary and reasonable indemnity obligations in effect on the Closing Date or entered into in connection with any acquisition or disposition of assets permitted under this Agreement (other than such obligations with respect to Indebtedness). The amount of any Guarantee of a Person shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the stated or determinable about of the primary obligation in respect of which such Guarantee is made or, if not stated or determinable, the maximum reasonably anticipated liability in respect thereof as determined by such Person in good faith. The terms “Guarantee” and “Guaranteed” used as verbs shall have correlative meanings.
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“Guarantor” means each Equity Owner, as applicable.
“Guarantor Joinder Agreement” means a joinder agreement substantially in the form set forth as Exhibit D pursuant to which a new Guarantor becomes party to this Agreement.
“Hague Securities Convention” means The Convention on the Law Applicable to Certain Rights in Respect of Securities Held with an Intermediary, ratified Sept. 28, 2016, S. Treaty Doc. No. 112-6 (2012).
“Hazardous Substances” means any and all substances (whether solid, liquid or gas) defined, listed or otherwise classified as pollutants, contaminants, hazardous wastes, hazardous substances, hazardous materials, extremely hazardous wastes or words of similar meaning or regulatory effect under any present or future Environmental Laws, including, but not limited to, petroleum and petroleum products, asbestos and asbestos-containing materials, polychlorinated biphenyls, lead, radon, radioactive materials, flammables and explosives, lead-based paint and Toxic Mold (present at levels above background and indicative of an indoor source). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the term “Hazardous Substances” will not include: (i) substances which otherwise would be included in such definition but which are of kinds and in amounts ordinarily and customarily used or stored in similar properties, including substances used for the purposes of cleaning, maintenance, or operations, substances typically used in construction, and typical products used in properties like each Financed Property, and which are otherwise stored and used in compliance with all Environmental Laws and any permits issued pursuant thereto; or (ii) substances which otherwise would be included in such definition but which are of kinds and amounts ordinarily and customarily utilized in residential properties and which are otherwise in compliance with all Environmental Laws and any permits issued pursuant thereto.
“HOA” means a homeowners association.
“HOA Certificate” means a certificate from Select Title, Inc., or another title agent reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, in substantially the form of Exhibit N.
“HOA Fees” means homeowners’ or condominium owners’ association dues, fees and assessments.
“HOA Opinion” means a local counsel opinion opining that a state in which a Property is located is not an Applicable HOA State; provided that, any Property located in a state for which a local counsel opinion was previously delivered hereunder, such local counsel opinion may be provided in the form of a bring-down opinion by such local counsel in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
“HOA Policy” means property insurance policies that cover a Casualty provided by an HOA.
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“HOA Property” means a Property with an HOA.
“Holding Subsidiary” means a subsidiary, 100% of the Equity Interest of which is owned by the Risk Retention Sponsor and which does not carry on any trade, business or other activity, or hold any assets, other than (i) holding the Risk Retention Sponsor’s Equity Interests in Pkg 8 Parent or Pkg 10 Parent; (ii) holding 100% of the Equity Interest of any entity established for the sole purpose of holding the Risk Retention Sponsor’s Equity Interests in Pkg 8 Parent or Pkg 10 Parent; or (iii) holding any other assets or carrying on activities which are incidental to holding such Equity Interest as is specified in (i) or (ii).
“HUD” has the meaning specified in the definition of “Eligible Tenant”.
“Indebtedness” means, for any Person, without duplication: (i) obligations created, issued or incurred by such Person for borrowed money (whether by loan, the issuance and sale of debt securities or the sale of property to another Person subject to an understanding or agreement, contingent or otherwise, to repurchase such property from such Person); (ii) obligations of such Person to pay the deferred purchase or acquisition price of property or services, including trade accounts payable and accrued expenses; (iii) indebtedness of others secured by a Lien on the property of such Person, whether or not the respective Indebtedness so secured has been assumed by such Person; (iv) accrued obligations of such Person in respect of outstanding letters of credit or similar instruments issued or accepted by banks and other financial institutions for account of such Person; (v) Capital Lease Obligations of such Person; (vi) obligations of such Person under repurchase agreements or like arrangements; (vii) obligations of others described in another clause of this definition that are Guaranteed by such Person; and (viii) any other obligation of such Person evidenced by a note, bond, debenture or similar instrument that would be classified as indebtedness on a balance sheet prepared in accordance with GAAP. The amount of Indebtedness of any Person for purposes of clause (iii) shall be deemed to be equal to the lesser of (a) the aggregate unpaid amount of such Indebtedness and (b) the fair market value of the property encumbered thereby as determined by such Person in good faith.
“Indemnified Amounts” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.01.
“Indemnified Parties” means (i) each Lender, the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent (including in its capacity as the Securities Intermediary), and each other Servicing Agent, (ii) any Person who holds or acquires a full or partial interest in the Loans (including, but not limited to, investors, custodians, trustees and other fiduciaries who hold or have held a full or partial interest in the Loans evidenced for the benefit of third parties), (iii) any Person who holds or acquires a participation or other full or partial interest in the Loan, whether during the term of the Loans or as a part of or following a foreclosure of the Loans, (iv) any successors by merger, consolidation or acquisition of all or a substantial portion of any Lender’s assets and business and (v) the respective officers, directors, shareholders, partners, employees, agents, representatives, contractors, subcontractors, Affiliates, participants, successors and assigns of any Person described in any of the foregoing clauses and the parent company or holding company that controls any such Persons.
“Indemnified Taxes” means (i) any and all Taxes, other than Excluded Taxes, imposed on or with respect to any payment made by or on account of any obligation of any Loan Party under any Loan Document and (ii) to the extent not otherwise described in (i), Other Taxes.
“Independent Director” means, with respect to any general partner of a limited partnership or any limited liability company, an individual reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders who is provided by CT Corporation, Corporation Service Company, National Registered Agents, Inc., Wilmington Trust Company, Wilmington Trust SP Services, Inc., Wilmington Trust, National Association, Stewart Management Company, Lord Securities Corporation or, if none of those companies is then providing professional Independent Director, another nationally-recognized company approved in writing by the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld), in each case that is not an Affiliate of any Relevant Party and that provides professional independent director and other corporate services in the ordinary course of its business, and which individual is duly appointed as a manager or as a member of the board of directors or board of managers of such general partner or limited liability company and is not, and has never been, and will not while serving as Independent Director be, any of the following:
(i) a member (other than Special Member or similar capacity), partner, equity holder, manager (except as independent manager), director, officer or employee of any Relevant Party or any of their respective equity holders or Affiliates (other than as an independent director or Special Member of any Relevant Party or any Affiliate of any Relevant Party that is not in the direct chain of ownership of such Relevant Party and that is required by a creditor to be a single purpose bankruptcy remote entity, provided that such independent director is employed by a company that routinely provides professional independent directors or managers);
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(ii) a creditor, supplier or service provider (including provider of professional services) to any Relevant Party or any of their respective equity holders or Affiliates (other than a nationally-recognized company that routinely provides professional independent directors or managers and other corporate services to any Relevant Party or any of their respective equity holders or Affiliates in the ordinary course of business);
(iii) a family member of any member, partner, equity holder, manager, director, officer, employee, creditor, supplier or service provider of or to any Relevant Party or their Affiliates;
(iv) a member, partner or employee of a law firm that has provided legal services of any kind to any Relevant Party or their Affiliates; or
(v) a Person that controls (whether directly, indirectly or otherwise) any of (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) above.
A natural person who otherwise satisfies the foregoing definition other than subparagraph (i) by reason of being an Independent Director or non-economic “springing member” of any one or more Relevant Parties or any one or more “special purpose entities” affiliated with any Relevant Party shall not be disqualified from serving as an Independent Director, provided that the fees that such individual earns from serving as Independent Director of such Affiliates in any given year constitute in the aggregate less than five percent (5%) of such individual’s annual income for that year.
“Index Floor” means one quarter of one percent (0.25%).
“Individual Material Adverse Effect” means, in respect of an individual Property, any event or condition that has a material adverse effect on the value, use, occupation, leasing or marketability of such Property or results in any liability to, claim against or obligation of any Lender or any materially adverse liability or obligation on the part of any Relevant Party. For the avoidance of doubt, and without any implication to the contrary, any reference to a Property in a Single Plat Development for purposes of an “Individual Material Adverse Effect” shall refer to the individual single family home or one to four unit residential real property and not to the entirety of the Single Plat Development.
“Initial Borrowing Request” has the meaning specified in Section 2.02(a).
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“Initial Objection” has the meaning specified in Section 10.22(b).
“Initial Term” means the period from the Closing Date through April 6, 2024.
“Insolvency Opinion” means a non-consolidation opinion letter delivered by Mayer Brown LLP on the Closing Date.
“Insurance Premiums” has the meaning specified in Section 5.04(b).
“Insurance Proceeds” means proceeds of any insurance policy, including property insurance policies, casualty insurance policies, title insurance policies, “partnership liability” insurance policies and employee fidelity insurance policies, in each case as and to the extent required to be maintained by any Loan Party pursuant to Section 5.04.
“Insurance Reserves” has the meaning specified in Section 6.06(a).
“Insurance Reserves Account” means the account identified as the “Insurance Reserves Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 in replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative. The Insurance Reserves Account shall be an Eligible Account.
“Interest” means, for any Loan and any Settlement Period, the sum for each day during such Settlement Period of the following:
IR x PA/CB
where:
| IR | = | the Interest Rate for such Loan for such day. |
| PA | = | the outstanding principal amount of such Loan on such day. |
| CB | = | 360. |
“Interest Determination Date” means, (i) with respect to the initial Settlement Period, the date that is two (2) U.S. Government Securities Business Days before the Closing Date, (ii) with respect to each Settlement Period thereafter that occurs while the Loans are Term SOFR Loans, the date that is two (2) U.S. Government Securities Business Days prior to the first day of the applicable Settlement Period, (iii) with respect to any Settlement Period that occurs while the Loans are Alternate Rate Loans, the date that is two (2) U.S. Government Securities Business Days prior to the first day of the applicable Settlement Period (or the time determined by the Administrative Agent in accordance with the Conforming Changes), and (iv) with respect to any Settlement Period that occurs while the Loans are Prime Rate Loans, the date that is two (2) Business Days prior to the first day of the applicable Settlement Period.
“Interest Rate” means, with respect to each Settlement Period: (a) an interest rate per annum equal to (i) for any Term SOFR Loan, the Term SOFR Rate, determined as of the Interest Determination Date with respect to such Settlement Period, (ii) for any Alternate Rate Loan, the Alternate Rate, determined as of the Interest Determination Date with respect to such Settlement Period, and (iii) for any Prime Rate Loan, the Prime Rate, determined as of the Interest Determination Date with respect to such Settlement Period; or (b) when applicable pursuant to this Agreement or any other Loan Document, the Default Rate.
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“Interest Rate Cap Agreement” means the ISDA Master Agreement (Multicurrency – Cross Border) (together with the confirmation (including any revised, amended or otherwise modified confirmations) and schedules relating thereto), dated on or about the Closing Date, between the Counterparty and one or more Borrowers, obtained by one or more Borrowers and collaterally assigned to the Administrative Agent (for the benefit of the Lenders) in accordance with this Agreement and the Collateral Assignment. After delivery of a Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement to the Administrative Agent (for the benefit of the Lenders), the term “Interest Rate Cap Agreement” shall be deemed to mean or include, as applicable, any such Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement. The Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York and shall provide for each of the following:
(i) the notional amount of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall be equal to at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the Aggregate Commitment;
(ii) the remaining term of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall at all times extend through the Maturity Date) as extended from time to time pursuant to this Agreement and the Loan Documents;
(iii) the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall be issued by the Counterparty to one or more Borrowers and shall be collaterally assigned to the Administrative Agent by the applicable Borrowers in accordance with this Agreement;
(iv) (a) the Counterparty under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall be obligated to make a stream of payments, directly to the Collection Account (whether or not an Event of Default has occurred) from time to time equal to the product of (I) the notional amount of such Interest Rate Cap Agreement multiplied by (II) the excess if any of Term SOFR (including any upward rounding under the definition of Term SOFR) (or the Alternate Index Rate or Prime Index Rate, as applicable) over the Strike Price, and (b) the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall provide that each such payment shall be made on a monthly basis in each case not later than (after giving effect to and assuming the passage of any cure period afforded to such Counterparty under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, which cure period shall not in any event be more than three Business Days) each Monthly Payment Date;
(v) the Counterparty under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall execute and deliver the Acknowledgment; and
(vi) the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall impose no material obligation on the beneficiary thereof (after payment of the acquisition cost) and shall be in all material respects satisfactory in form and substance to the Administrative Agent.
“IRS” means the Internal Revenue Service, a bureau of the Department of Treasury of the United States of America.
“Lease” means a bona fide written residential lease, sublease, letting, license, concession or other agreement pursuant to which any Tenant is granted a possessory interest in, or right to use or occupy all or any portion of any space in any Financed Property or Pending Advance Property by or on behalf of a Borrower, and (i) every modification, amendment or other agreement relating to such lease, sublease or other agreement entered into in connection with such lease, sublease or other agreement, and (ii) every guarantee of the performance and observance of the covenants, conditions and agreements to be performed and observed by the Tenant.
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“Legal Opinion” means the legal opinion letters delivered (a) on the Closing Date by (i) Mayer Brown LLP with respect to the Loan Parties, the Initial BRG Sponsor and the Risk Retention Sponsor and (ii) Winston & Strawn LLP with respect to the Peak Sponsor and (b) on the BRG Restructuring Effective Date by Mayer Brown LLP or Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz with respect to the Replacement BRG Sponsor.
“Legal Requirements” means all federal, state, county, municipal and other governmental statutes, laws, rules, orders, regulations, ordinances, judgments, decrees and injunctions of Governmental Authorities, whether now or hereafter enacted and in force, and all permits, licenses and authorizations and regulations relating thereto.
“Lender” means each of the financial institutions listed on Schedule II as a “Lender”, together with its respective successors and permitted assigns.
“Lender Objection” means the certificate described in Section 10.22, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit J.
“Lender Percentage” means for any Lender, the percentage equivalent of a fraction (expressed out to five decimal places), the numerator of which is the Commitment of such Lender (or, if such Commitments are terminated, the aggregate outstanding principal amount of all Loans of such Lender) and the denominator of which is the Aggregate Commitment (or, if such Commitments are terminated, the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance).
“Lender Representatives” has the meaning specified in Section 10.10(b).
“Lien” means any mortgage, deed of trust, deed to secure debt, indemnity deed of trust, lien, pledge, hypothecation, easement, right of way, adverse claim, preference, assignment, security interest, covenant, condition, restriction, or any other encumbrance or other use restriction relating to real property, charge or transfer restriction of any kind, including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing, and mechanic’s, materialmen’s and other similar liens and encumbrances.
“Liquidity” means, as of any date of determination with respect to a Person, the Unrestricted Cash of such Person as of such date.
“Loan” means a loan made to a Borrower pursuant to Article II.
“Loan Documents” means collectively, this Agreement, each Note, the Assignment of Management Agreements, each Sponsor Guaranty, the Equity Owner Guaranty, the Environmental Indemnity and each Collateral Document, each promissory note issued pursuant to Section 2.01(g) and all other agreements, documents, fee letters, side letters and instruments executed and delivered by any Relevant Party pursuant thereto or in connection therewith which evidence or secure the Loans.
“Loan Parties” means, collectively, each Equity Owner and each Borrower (including each TRS Borrower).
“Loan Report” means a report of the Calculation Agent in the form agreed to separately in writing between the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent (or, at any time that the same Person acts as Administrative Agent and Calculation Agent, any form provided by the Calculation Agent at such time) setting forth the results of any applicable calculations required in connection with a Borrowing Request with respect to a Loan.
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“Loan to Cost Ratio” means, with respect to any Property or Properties, the percentage determined by dividing (i) the Allocated Loan Amount(s) with respect to such Property or Properties by (ii) the Purchase Price for such Property or Properties.
“Loan to Value Ratio” means, with respect to any Property or Properties, the percentage determined by dividing (i) the Allocated Loan Amount(s) with respect to such Property or Properties by (ii) the BPO Value for such Property or Properties.
“Local Property Manager” means a reputable person that (a) has at least two (2) years’ experience in the management of at least (A) two hundred fifty (250) residential rental properties, and (B) one hundred twenty-five (125) residential rental properties in the metropolitan statistical areas in which such Person shall be managing Financed Properties (unless the Administrative Agent shall otherwise consent in writing with respect to a Property Manager entering into a new market subject to any conditions specified in such consent), (b) has, in connection with the execution of the applicable Management Agreement, cleared any background checks, credit checks or similar diligence required by the Administrative Agent or Diligence Agent in a manner acceptable to the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion, and (c) maintains in good standing all required licenses and permits, and complies in all material respects with all Legal Requirements, applicable to it and to the Borrowers and the Properties it manages.
“Major Lease” means any Lease which, either individually, or when taken together with any other Lease with the same Tenant or its Affiliates, (i) provides for a non-residential use by the Tenant thereunder, (ii) covers more than ten percent (10%) of the units at the Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, (iii) contains an option or other preferential right to purchase all or any portion of the Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, (iv) is with an Affiliate of Borrower as Tenant, or (v) is entered into during the continuance of a Cash Management Trigger Condition.
“Majority Lenders” means, at any time, the Lender or Lenders, including Approved Participants (other than the Defaulting Lenders), whose Commitments (excluding the Commitments of any Defaulting Lenders), or, in the case of any Approved Participant, the portion of a Lender’s Commitment participated to it, or, if such Commitments are terminated, the aggregate outstanding principal amount of all Loans of such Lenders or Approved Participants, together exceed fifty percent (50%) of the Aggregate Commitment (excluding the Commitments of any Defaulting Lenders) at such time, or, if such Commitments are terminated, the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance. For the avoidance of doubt, for purposes of this definition, (i) the Commitment or outstanding Loans of any Assigning Lender that assigns its voting rights to an Approved Participant shall be deemed reduced by the amount of the Commitment or Loans that is participated to such Approved Participant and (ii) any Approved Participant shall be deemed a Defaulting Lender to the extent and for so long as its related Assigning Lender becomes and remains a Defaulting Lender.
“Management Agreements” means, collectively, the Existing Management Agreement or any Replacement Management Agreement pursuant to which a Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager, as applicable, is managing one or more of the Financed Properties in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Agreement.
“Margin Stock” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(i).
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“Market” means each metropolitan statistical area identified as a “Market” in the Business Plan (including the exact constituents of such “Market” by reference to specific zip codes).
“Material Action” has the meaning set forth in clause (i) of the definition of “Special Purpose Entity” below.
“Material Adverse Effect” means a material adverse effect on (a) the use, operation or value of the Financed Properties (or the Financed Single Plat Development of which it is part) taking the Financed Properties as a whole, (b) for any provisions with respect to a Loan Party, the business, operations or financial condition of the Loan Parties, taken as a whole, and for any provisions with respect to a Sponsor, the business, operations or financial condition of such Sponsor, taken as a whole, (c) the ability of any Loan Party or any Sponsor to perform its respective material obligations under any of the Loan Documents to which it is a party, (d) the rights and remedies of any Secured Party under any of the Loan Documents or (e) the enforceability, validity, perfection or priority of any Lien under any of the Loan Documents.
“Material Indebtedness” has the meaning specified in Section 7.01(p).
“Maturity Date” means April 6, 2024, as such date may be extended pursuant to Section 2.08
“Maximum Legal Rate” means the maximum nonusurious interest rate, if any, that at any time or from time to time may be contracted for, taken, reserved, charged or received on the indebtedness under this Agreement and as provided for herein or the other Loan Documents, under the laws of such state or states whose laws are held by any court of competent jurisdiction to govern the interest rate provisions of the Loans.
“Merger Agreement” means the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of December 20, 2021, by and among BRG, Badger Parent LLC and Badger Merger Sub LLC.
“Minimum Disbursement Amount” means $100,000.
“Minimum Yield Fee” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.05(c).
“Modified Borrowing Request” means any Borrowing Request subject to modification as described in Section 2.02(a).
“Modified Report” means a Loan Report of the Calculation Agent setting forth the results of any applicable calculations required in connection with a Modified Borrowing Request.
“Monetary Lien” means a Lien securing an obligation for the payment of money.
“Monthly Borrower Report” means the report prepared by the Borrowers setting forth the information identified on Exhibit E and provided to the Calculation Agent and the Administrative Agent (who shall provide such report to the Lenders) pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.
“Monthly Payment Date” means, with respect to a Settlement Period, the 15th day of the calendar month immediately following such Settlement Period, or, if such date is not a Business Day, the next succeeding Business Day; provided, that the initial Monthly Payment Date under this Agreement shall occur on May 16, 2022, and the final Monthly Payment Date shall occur on the Maturity Date.
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“Monthly Payment Report” means a report prepared by the Calculation Agent reflecting the principal, Interest, fees, costs, expenses, indemnities and deposits into Reserves payable hereunder during the relevant period.
“Moody’s” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., and its successors.
“Mortgage” means a mortgage, deed of trust, deed to secure debt, assignment of leases and rents or similar instrument, (i) in the case of a Property located in Texas, in substantially in the applicable form attached hereto as Exhibit L, with such changes as are reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, or (ii) in the case of a Property located in any other State, in such other form as shall be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent.
“Mortgage File Required Documents” has the meaning specified in Schedule VII.
“Multiemployer Plan” means a plan within the meaning of Section 3(37) of ERISA to which contributions are required to be made by any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates or to which any such entity has any liability.
“Multi-Family Property” means real property with five or more residential units owned by a Borrower.
“Multi-Unit Property” means a Multi-Family Property or any Single Plat Development; provided that, for the avoidance of doubt, any one to four unit residential real property shall not constitute a Multi-Unit Property merely because it consists of more than one unit.
“Non-Consenting Lender” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.22(c).
“Non-Defaulting Lender” means, at any time, a Lender that is not a Defaulting Lender.
“Non-Monetary Lien” means any Lien other than a Monetary Lien.
“Non-Stabilized Property” means any Eligible Property that is not a Stabilized Property.
“Note” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.01(g).
“Notice of Completion” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(a).
“NYFRB” means the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
“Obligations” means all present and future indebtedness and other liabilities and obligations (howsoever created or evidenced, whether direct or indirect, absolute or contingent, or due or to become due) of the Loan Parties to the Secured Parties arising under this Agreement, the Mortgages or any other Loan Document or the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, including the repayment of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance and the payment of Interest, Fees, Breakage Costs and all other amounts due or to become due from any Loan Party under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents (whether in respect of fees, expenses, indemnifications, breakage costs, increased costs or otherwise), interest, fees and other obligations under this Agreement, the Mortgages and the other Loan Documents or the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby that accrue after the commencement of any bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding with respect to any Loan Party (in each case whether or not allowed as a claim in such proceeding).
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“OFAC” has the meaning specified in Section 4.01(v)(ii).
“Official Body” means any Governmental Authority or any accounting board or authority (whether or not part of a government) which is responsible for the establishment or interpretation of national or international accounting principles, in each case whether foreign or domestic.
“Operating Account” means a depositary account in the name of a Pkg Parent maintained at an Operating Account at any time that one or more direct or indirect Subsidiaries of such Pkg Parent is a Borrower or an Equity Owner, and that is subject to an Operating Account Control Agreement.
“Operating Account Bank” means a financial institution at which an Operating Account is maintained.
“Operating Account Control Agreement” means an account control agreement among a Pkg Parent, an Operating Account Bank and the Administrative Agent providing for springing control by the Administrative Agent during an Event of Default only over the applicable Operating Account, substantially in the form agreed to on the Closing Date or such other form as may be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent.
“Operating Expenses” means for any period:
(a) with respect to any Property other than any Multi-Family Property or any Property located on a Single Plat Development, the expenses actually incurred (or in the case of a budget, expected to actually be incurred) in connection with the maintenance and operation of the Financed Properties, including the following, in each case for the relevant period and without duplication: (i) property management fees, (ii) property tax expense, other recurring assessments, sewer charges, HOA dues and other recurring charges, (iii) insurance expense based on the Borrowers’ actual in-place insurance policies and (iv) general expenses for the Properties to the extent not provided for in the property management fees (including but not limited to cost of utilities, inventories, and fixed asset supplies consumed in the operation of the Properties, costs and fees of independent professionals (including legal, consultants and other professional expenses), technical consultants, operational experts (including quality assurance inspectors) or other third parties retained to perform services required or permitted hereunder) but excluding all items described in sub-clauses (A) through (J) of clause (a)(i) of the definition of “Underwritten Operating Expenses”; and
(b) with respect to any Property located in a Single Plat Development or any Multi-Family Property for any period, without duplication, all expenses actually paid or payable by Borrowers during such period in connection with the operation, management, maintenance, repair and use of such Multi-Family Property or, with respect to any Property located on a Single Plat Development, the ratable amount of such expenses of the related Single Plat Development attributable to such Property as determined by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion, determined on an accrual basis, and, except to the extent otherwise provided in this definition, in accordance with GAAP. Operating Expenses specifically shall include (i) all expenses incurred with respect to such Multi-Family Property or such Single Plat Development in the immediately preceding twelve (12) month period based on quarterly financial statements delivered to the Administrative Agent in accordance with Section 5.02(b)(ii) hereof, (ii) all payments required to be made pursuant to any Operations Agreements, (iii) property management fees in an amount equal to the management fees actually paid under the applicable Management Agreement, (iv) administrative, payroll, security and general expenses for such Multi-Family Property or such Single Plat Development, (v) the cost of utilities, inventories and fixed asset supplies consumed in the operation of such Multi-Family Property or such Single Plat Development, (vi) a reasonable reserve for uncollectible accounts, (vii) costs and fees of independent professionals (including legal, accounting, consultants and other professional expenses), technical consultants, operational experts (including quality assurance inspectors) or other third parties retained to perform services required or permitted hereunder, (viii) cost of attendance by employees at training and manpower development programs, (ix) association dues, (x) computer processing charges, (xi) operational equipment and other lease payments, (xii) Taxes and Other Charges (other than income taxes or Other Charges in the nature of income taxes) and insurance premiums and (xiii) all underwritten reserves required by the Administrative Agent hereunder (without duplication). Notwithstanding the foregoing, Operating Expenses shall not include (1) depreciation or amortization, (2) income taxes or Other Charges in the nature of income taxes, (3) any expenses (including legal, accounting and other professional fees, expenses and disbursements) incurred in connection with the making of the Loans or the sale, exchange, transfer, financing or refinancing of all or any portion of such Multi-Family Property or Single Plat Development or in connection with the recovery of Insurance Proceeds or Awards which are applied to prepay the Loans, (4) Capital Expenditures, (5) Debt Service, and (6) any item of expense which would otherwise be considered within Operating Expenses pursuant to the provisions above but is paid directly by any Tenant of such Multi-Family Property or Single Plat Development.
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“Operations Agreements” means, with respect to any Property, any covenants, restrictions, easements, declarations or agreements of record relating to the construction, operation or use of such Property, together with all amendments, modifications or supplements thereto.
“Other Charges” means all HOA Fees, impositions other than Real Estate Taxes, and any other charges levied or assessed or imposed against a Property or any part thereof other than Real Estate Taxes.
“Other Connection Taxes” means, with respect to any Affected Party, Taxes imposed as a result of a present or former connection between such Affected Party and the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (other than connections arising from such Affected Party having executed, delivered, become a party to, performed its obligations under, received payments under, received or perfected a security interest under, engaged in any other transaction pursuant to or enforced any Loan Document, or sold or assigned an interest in any Loan or Loan Document).
“Other Plan Law” has the meaning specified in Section 2.01(d).
“Other Taxes” means any and all present or future stamp, court or documentary, intangible, recording, filing, excise, property or similar Taxes that arise from any payment made under, from the execution, delivery, performance, enforcement or registration of, from the receipt or perfection of a security interest under, or otherwise with respect to, any Loan Document, except any such Taxes that are Other Connection Taxes imposed with respect to an assignment (other than an assignment made pursuant to Section 2.22).
“PA Party” has the meaning specified in Section 2.19(e).
“Participant” has the meaning specified in Section 10.03(e).
“Participant Register” has the meaning specified in Section 10.03(e).
“Patriot Act” has the meaning specified in Section 10.15.
“Patriot Act Offense” has the meaning specified in Section 4.01(v)(ii).
“Paying Agent” means Computershare, acting by or through its Corporate Trust division or department, and its successors or any replacement designated pursuant to Section 2.19(d).
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“Paying Agent Fee” means (a) with respect to the initial Paying Agent appointed under this Agreement, $0 (it being agreed that fees of such Paying Agent are subsumed under the Calculation Agent Fee), and (b) with respect to any replacement paying agent (including the initial Paying Agent if such Paying Agent is no longer acting as the Calculation Agent), such fee or fees as shall be agreed by the Administrative Agent and, so long as no Event of Default then exists, with the consent of the Borrowers.
“PBGC” means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or any entity succeeding to any or all of its functions under ERISA.
“Peak Sponsor” means Peak Housing REIT, Inc., a Maryland corporation.
“Peak Sponsor Guaranty” means the Sponsor Guaranty, dated as of the Closing Date, executed by the Peak Sponsor in favor of the Administrative Agent, on behalf of the Lenders
“Pending Advance Properties” means the Eligible Properties that are the subject of a pending Borrowing Request pursuant to Section 2.02(a) (unless removed from the applicable Borrowing Request by the Borrower Representative upon written notice to the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent pursuant to the BPO Reconciliation Process or in connection with any modification of a Borrowing Request made in accordance with the terms of this Agreement); provided that, if any Eligible Property is located in a Single Plat Development, such Eligible Property may not be a Pending Advance Property unless all Properties in such Single Plat Development are Pending Advance Properties.
“Pending Renovation Advance Inspection Requirement” shall be satisfied in respect of any Pending Renovation Advance Property when (i) the Diligence Agent shall have inspected a Selected Financed Property Sample from the Sample Pool that includes such Pending Renovation Advance Property and (ii) either (a) no non-compliance with the Renovation Standards shall have been identified in respect of any Financed Property included in such Selected Financed Property Sample or (b) if any non-compliance with the Renovation Standards shall have been identified in respect of any Financed Property included in such Selected Financed Property Sample, (x) as provided in Section 6.02(a), the Diligence Agent shall have inspected all or a larger sample of the Financed Properties included in the Sample Pool in respect of such Selected Financed Property Sample to confirm compliance for such Financed Properties with the Renovation Standards and (y) each Pending Renovation Advance Property showing any non-compliance with the Renovation Standards shall have been excluded from the applicable Borrowing Request for Renovation Loans until such time as any such non-compliance is corrected as verified by the Diligence Agent by virtue of a subsequent inspection.
“Pending Renovation Advance Properties” means the Converted Properties that are the subject of a pending Borrowing Request pursuant to Section 2.02(a)(ii) (unless removed from the applicable Borrowing Request by the Borrower Representative upon written notice to the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent in connection with any modification of a Borrowing Request made in accordance with the terms of this Agreement).
“Pending Renovation Reserve Release Inspection Requirement” shall be satisfied in respect of any Converted Property when (i) the Diligence Agent shall have inspected a Selected Financed Property Sample from the Sample Pool that includes such Converted Property and (ii) either (a) no material non-compliance with the Renovation Standards shall have been identified in respect of any Financed Property included in such Selected Financed Property Sample or (b) if any material non-compliance with the Renovation Standards shall have been identified in respect of any Financed Property included in such Selected Financed Property Sample, (x) as provided in Section 6.02(a), the Diligence Agent shall have inspected a larger sample or all of the Financed Properties included in the Sample Pool in respect of such Selected Financed Property Sample to confirm compliance in all material respects for such Financed Properties with the Renovation Standards and (y) each Converted Property showing any material non-compliance with the Renovation Standards shall have been excluded from the applicable Reserve Release Request until such time as any such non-compliance is corrected as verified by the Diligence Agent by virtue of a subsequent inspection.
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“Permitted Indebtedness” means (i) the Loans, (ii) Taxes that are not yet delinquent and (iii) current trade accounts payable and accrued expenses in connection with the completion of the Scheduled Renovation Work for any Property and other customary current trade accounts payable and accrued expenses (in each case that do not constitute Indebtedness for borrowed money and that are incurred in the ordinary course of business), all such trade account payables and accrued expenses not to exceed in the aggregate an amount equal to three percent (3%) of the Aggregate Commitments.
“Permitted Investments” means any one or more of the following: (i) direct obligations of the United States of America, or any agency thereof, or obligations fully guaranteed as to payment of principal and interest by the United States of America, or any agency thereof, provided such obligations are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States of America, and provided, however, that any such investment must (A) have a predetermined fixed dollar amount of principal due at maturity that cannot vary or change, (b) if rated by Standard & Poor’s, must not have an “r” highlighter affixed to their rating, (C) if such investments have a variable rate of interest, such interest rate must be tied to a single interest rate index plus a fixed spread (if any) and must move proportionately with that index, (D) such investments must not be subjected to liquidation prior to their maturity, and (E) no such investment may mature more than 90 days from the date of acquisition thereof; and (ii) deposit accounts with or certificates of deposit which are (a) fully FDIC-insured issued by any bank or trust company organized under the laws of the United States of America or any state thereof and short term unsecured certificates of deposits and time deposits which are rated A-1 or better by Standard & Poor’s Corporation or P-1 or better by Moody’s Investors Services, Inc., in each case maturing not more than 90 days from the date of acquisition thereof, and (b) in the case of certificates of deposit, negotiable and have a ready secondary market in which such investment can be disposed of. The Administrative Agent, the Majority Lenders and the Borrower Representative, each in its sole discretion, may mutually agree upon additions to the types of investments that are Permitted Investments without the consent of any of the Loan Parties or any other party to this Agreement. Each of the Permitted Investments may be purchased by the Paying Agent or through an Affiliate of the Paying Agent, upon the written instruction of the Borrower Representative as provided herein or as otherwise provided pursuant to Section 6.11(b).
“Permitted Liens” means, (i) with respect to a Financed Property, a Financed Single Plat Development or a Pending Advance Property, collectively, (a) the Liens and security interests created by the Loan Documents, (b) all Non-Monetary Liens disclosed prior to the Borrowing Date for such Property in the applicable Title Insurance Policy (or in the marked or initialed binding commitment for a Title Insurance Policy, if no Title Insurance Policy has been issued prior to the Borrowing Date for such Property) relating to such Property that the Diligence Agent determines do not adversely affect (A) the ability of the applicable Borrower to pay any of its obligations to any Person as and when due, (B) the marketability of title to such Property, (C) the fair market value of such Property, or (D) the use, leasing, occupancy or operation of such Property, and, in each case, that are not otherwise objected to by the Diligence Agent or the Administrative Agent prior to the Borrowing Date for such Property or such Single Plat Development (it being understood that any such determination or objection made by the Diligence Agent and/or the Administrative Agent shall be made prior to such Property becoming a Financed Property or such Single Plat Development becoming a Financed Single Plat Development), (c) Liens, if any, for Taxes imposed by any Governmental Authority that are not yet due or delinquent, (d) rights of Tenants, as Tenants only, (e) such other (monetary lien) title and survey exceptions as the Administrative Agent has approved or may approve in writing and that have been presented to the Lenders for review and not objected to by the Majority Lenders within five (5) Business Days after presentation thereof or such shorter period in which the Majority Lenders consent thereto and (f) such other (non-monetary lien) title and survey exceptions as the Administrative Agent has approved or may approve in writing and that have been presented to the Lenders for review and (ii) with respect to any Property other than a Financed Property or a Pending Advance Property or a Single Plat Development other than a Financed Single Plat Development, collectively, (a) any Liens existing on such Property or such Single Plat Development at the time of purchase, (b) any mechanics’, materialman’s or similar Liens that are discharged, released of record or bonded or insured over within thirty (30) days of the applicable Borrower obtaining knowledge thereof, (c) any Non-Monetary Liens incurred in the ordinary course of business that do not adversely affect (A) the ability of the applicable Borrower to pay any of its obligations to any Person as and when due, (B) the marketability of title to such Property or such Single Plat Development, (C) the fair market value of such Property or such Single Plat Development, or (D) the use, leasing, occupancy or operation of such Property or the development of such Single Plat Development and use, leasing, occupancy or operation of each Property located thereon, (d) Liens, if any, for Taxes imposed by any Governmental Authority that are not yet due or delinquent , (e) rights of Tenants, as Tenants only; and (f) in the case of any Property located in a Single Plat Development, restrictions on transfer and otherwise imposed by such Single Plat Development in favor of the applicable Borrower, as owner thereof provided, that for the avoidance of doubt, the “Permitted Liens” described in this clause (ii) shall not include any Liens placed upon a Property by any Relevant Party.
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“Person” means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), joint stock company, limited liability company, trust, unincorporated association, joint venture, Governmental Authority or other entity.
“Pkg 8 Parent” means PH OP Pkg 8, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.
“Pkg 10 Parent” means PH OP Pkg 10, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.
“Pkg Parent” means each of the Pkg 10 Parent and the Pkg 8 Parent.
“Plan” means an “employee pension benefit plan” as defined in Section 3(2) of ERISA that is established, maintained or contributed to by any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates (or as to which such entity has any liability) and that is covered by Title IV of ERISA, other than a Multiemployer Plan.
“Plan Termination Event” means (i) any Reportable Event with respect to any Plan; (ii) the withdrawal of any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates from a Plan during a plan year in which such Sponsor, such Loan Party or such ERISA Affiliate was a “substantial employer” as defined in Section 4001(a)(2) of ERISA; (iii) the imposition of an obligation on any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates under Section 4041 of ERISA to provide affected parties written notice of intent to terminate a Plan in a distress termination described in Section 4041(c) of ERISA; (iv) the institution of proceedings by the PBGC to terminate a Plan or by any similar foreign governmental authority to terminate a Foreign Plan; (v) any event or condition which could reasonably constitute grounds under Section 4042 of ERISA for the termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to administer, any Plan; (vi) the institution of proceedings by a foreign governmental authority to appoint a trustee to administer any Foreign Plan; or (vii) the partial or complete withdrawal, within the meaning of Sections 4203 or 4205 of ERISA or, with respect to a Foreign Plan, other applicable law, of any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates from a Multiemployer Plan or Foreign Plan or a determination that a Multiemployer Plan is, or is expected to be, insolvent, within the meaning of Title IV of ERISA.
“PML” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.04(a)(i).
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“Policy” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.04(b).
“Preliminary Report” means a Loan Report of the Calculation Agent setting forth the results of any applicable calculations required in connection with an Initial Borrowing Request.
“Previously-Owned Properties” means each property shown on any Properties Schedule that is no longer owned by any Borrower as of the date hereof (or, with respect to any Additional Borrower, as of the applicable Accession Date).
“Previously-Owned Properties Liabilities” means any and all liabilities, losses, damages, costs and expenses of any kind or nature whatsoever (including the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for any Borrower, any Equity Owner and/or the Administrative Agent), that are imposed on, incurred by, or asserted against any Borrower, any Equity Owner or the Administrative Agent in any manner relating to or arising out of the Previously-Owned Properties or the Prior Loan Agreement.
“Previously-Owned Properties Transferee” means each Person which has acquired, by deed, operation of law, or otherwise, a Previously-Owned Property from a Borrower.
“Prime Index” means the rate of interest per annum published in The Wall Street Journal from time to time as the “Prime Rate”. If more than one “Prime Rate” is published in The Wall Street Journal for a day, the average of such “Prime Rates” will be used, and such average will be rounded up to the nearest 1/1000th of one percent (0.001%). If The Wall Street Journal ceases to publish the “Prime Rate,” the Administrative Agent will select an equivalent publication that publishes such “Prime Rate,” and if such “Prime Rates” are no longer generally published or are limited, regulated or administered by a governmental or quasi-governmental body, then the Administrative Agent will select a comparable interest rate index.
“Prime Index Rate” means, with respect to each Settlement Period, the per annum rate of interest of the Prime Index, determined as of the Interest Determination Date immediately preceding the commencement of such Settlement Period; provided that in no event will the Prime Index Rate be less than the Index Floor.
“Prime Rate” means, with respect to each Settlement Period, the per annum rate of interest equal to the greater of (i) the sum of (A) the Prime Index Rate plus (B) the Prime Rate Spread, and (ii) the sum of (A) the Index Floor plus (B) the Spread.
“Prime Rate Loan” means a Loan at such time as interest thereon accrues at a rate of interest based upon the Prime Index.
“Prime Rate Spread” means, in connection with any conversion of the Loans in accordance with the terms hereof to Prime Rate Loans, the sum (expressed as the number of basis points and determined at the time of such conversion) of the Spread and the Prime Rate Spread Adjustment; provided that the Prime Rate Spread shall not be less than a spread resulting in the Interest Rate immediately after giving effect to the conversion to Prime Rate Loans being at least equal to the Interest Rate immediately prior to conversion to Prime Rate Loans, and in no event will the Prime Rate Spread be less than zero.
“Prime Rate Spread Adjustment” means, in connection with any conversion of the Loans in accordance with the terms hereof to Prime Rate Loans, a spread adjustment, expressed as the number of basis points and determined at the time of such conversion (which may be positive, negative or zero) equal to (1) (x) if the Loans are being converted from Term SOFR Loans to Prime Rate Loans, the daily average of Term SOFR (with a floor of zero percent) or (y) if the Loans are being converted from Alternate Rate Loans to Prime Rate Loans, the daily average of the Alternate Index Rate (with a floor of zero percent), in either case of (x) or (y), as applicable, over the one hundred eighty (180) day period (or such shorter period to the extent such historical rates are not available, and excluding days within such one hundred eighty (180) day or shorter period that are not U.S. Government Securities Business Days) ending two (2) U.S. Government Business Days prior to the date of conversion, and excluding from such average, if such period of averaging exceeds thirty (30) days, the five (5) highest days and the five (5) lowest days of such one hundred eighty (180) day period), minus (2) the daily average of the Prime Index Rate (with a floor of zero percent) over the one hundred eighty (180) day period (excluding days within such one hundred eighty (180) day period that are not U.S. Government Securities Business Days) ending two (2) U.S. Government Securities Business Days prior to the date of conversion (excluding from such average the five (5) highest days and the five (5) lowest days of such one hundred eighty (180) day period).
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“Principal Portion” has the meaning set forth in the definition of Release Amount.
“Prior Loan” means (a) with respect to each Borrower as of the Closing Date, the indebtedness pursuant to and evidenced by (i) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of September 14, 2021, between Pkg 10-Springtown 70, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (ii) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of September 21, 2021, between Pkg 10-Texarkana 29, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (iii) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of September 29, 2021, between Pkg 10-Granbury, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (iv) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of October 5, 2021, between Pkg 10-Axelrod 22, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (v) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of November 15, 2021, between Pkg 10-Lynnwood 20, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (vi) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of December 6, 2021, between Pkg 10-Lubbock 45, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (vii) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of March 11, 2022, between Pkg 10 Pledgor II, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (viii) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of September 23, 2021, between Pkg 10-Lubbock 1.0, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (ix) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of October 28, 2021, between Pkg 10-Lubbock 2.0, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (x) that certain Promissory Note and that certain Deed of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of October 26, 2021, between Pkg 10-Springtown 14, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (xi) those certain Promissory Notes and those certain Deeds of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of December 1, 2021, between Pkg 10-Lynnwood 2-20, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, (x) those certain Promissory Notes and those certain Deeds of Trust, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement, and Fixture Filing, dated as of December 22, 2021, between Pkg 10 Pledgor, LLC and BRG Pkg 10 Lender, LLC, and (b) with respect to any Additional Borrower or Additional Guarantor, the indebtedness pursuant to and evidenced by the relevant loan agreement specified on the Borrower Joinder Agreement or Guarantor Joinder Agreement pursuant to which such Additional Borrower or Additional Guarantor becomes a Loan Party in accordance with Section 5.01(s).
“Priority” means, with respect to an HOA Property, that the valid and proper foreclosure of a Lien for HOA Fees would extinguish the Lien of a Mortgage relating to HOA Property.
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“Product Information” has the meaning specified in Section 10.10(a).
“Prohibited Action” means, in respect of any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, a voluntary action or omission by any Loan Party or an action or omission by any third party authorized by a Loan Party that, in each case, such Loan Party intends to (i) result in an imposition of an Adverse Claim on such Property or Single Plat Development, (ii) constitute a Transfer in respect of such Property or such Single Plat Development, (iii) with respect to a Single Plat Development, results in a change in the zoning classification of such Single Plat Development to a zoning classification that would not the permit the development of such Single Plat Development or the leasing, occupancy or operation of any Property located in such Single Plat Development or (iv) with respect to a Multi-Family Property, results in a change in the zoning classification of such Multi-Family Property to a zoning classification that would not the leasing, occupancy or operation of any one or more of the residential units or commercial units located in such Multi-Family Property.
“Prohibited Person” means any Person:
| (i) | that is listed on any Government List or is otherwise a Proscribed Person; |
| (ii) | that is listed on the annex to, or is otherwise subject to the provisions of, Executive Order 13224; |
| (iii) | who commits, threatens, conspires to commit or supports “terrorism” as defined in Executive Order 13224; |
| (iv) | that is owned or Controlled by, or acting for on behalf of, any Person that is described in the foregoing clauses (i), (ii) or (iii) above or its otherwise subject to the provisions of Executive Order 13224; |
| (v) | with whom another Person is prohibited from dealing or otherwise engaging in any transaction by any terrorism or money laundering law, including the Patriot Act, Executive Order 13224 and any Anti-Money Laundering Laws; |
| (vi) | that is an Embargoed Person; |
| (vii) | who is an Affiliate of any Person that is described in any of clauses (i) through (vi) above; or |
| (viii) | is a Disqualified Person. |
“Project” means a property development or subdivision consisting of, or to consist of, multiple Properties, each located on an individual tax parcel, and excluding Single Plat Development.
“Properties Schedule” means a data tape of Pending Advance Properties, Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments appended to a Borrowing Request delivered by a Borrower to the Administrative Agent, the Diligence Agent and the Calculation Agent. Each such schedule shall include, for each applicable Pending Advance Property and each Financed Property and Financed Single Plat Development, each of the data fields set forth on Schedule I to the Borrowing Request. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the information relating to the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments which are not the subject of such Borrowing Request included on any Properties Schedule shall be based on the most recent Monthly Borrower Report submitted by the Borrowers prior to such Borrowing Request, as adjusted for the release of Financed Properties in connection with any Refinancing or Transfer, the addition of any new Financed Properties under this Agreement and the establishment and release of Reserves since the date of the most recent Monthly Borrower Report.
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“Property” means (a) a one to four unit residential real property owned by a Borrower, including single family homes in planned unit developments and Approved Single Plat Developments and individual single family townhomes and individual residential condominium units in a low-rise or high-rise condominium project or Approved Single Plat Development, but excluding coops and manufactured housing, and (b) an Approved Multi-Family Property.
“Property Account” means a Rent Collection Account or Security Deposit Account.
“Property Account Bank” means a financial institution at which a Property Account is maintained.
“Property Account Control Agreement” means the account control agreement among the applicable Pkg Parent, the applicable Property Manager (if such Property Manager has signing authority over the applicable Property Account) and any other Person with trust or signatory authority with respect to the applicable Property Account, the applicable Property Account Bank and the Administrative Agent providing for springing control by the Administrative Agent during an Event of Default only over the applicable Property Account, substantially in the form agreed to on the Closing Date or such other form as may be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent.
“Property File” means with respect to each Financed Property, Financed Single Plat Development or Pending Advance Property (and, in the case of any Property located in an Approved Single Plat Development, (x) the documents described in clauses (i), (ii) and (v) shall apply to all Properties located in such Approved Single Plat Development, and (y) each document described in clauses (i) through (ix) may cover the Approved Single Plat Development in which such Property is located, in which case each reference to a “Property” shall be deemed to refer to “the applicable Property or Approved Single Plat Development”):
(i) The Purchase Agreement or other applicable purchase documentation reasonably satisfactory to Administrative Agent;
(ii) The HUD-1 related to the acquisition of such Property, if any;
(iii) The documentation described in items 3 and 4 of Schedule I;
(iv) Evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent of the insurance policies required by Section 5.04 with respect to such Property;
(v) If the Property is a Stabilized Property or Carry-Over Property, the executed Lease;
(vi) The Broker Price Opinion for such Property or, with respect to any Property located in an Approved Single Plat Development, the Broker Price Opinion with respect to all Properties located in such Approved Single Plat Development;
(vii) With respect to any Approval Requirement Asset, such additional documents specified in the Administrative Agent’s written approval of such Approval Requirement Asset, which shall include (without limitation), unless otherwise specified in writing by the Administrative Agent:
| (A) | two (2) prints of an original Survey and improvements thereon for such Approval Requirement Asset dated not more than sixty (60) days prior to the date of the initial Property Loan with respect to such Approval Asset (or, in the case of a Single Plat Development, any Property located thereon); |
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| (B) | evidence satisfactory to Administrative Agent that no portion of such Approval Requirement Asset is “wetlands” under any applicable law and that such Property does not contain and is not within or near any area designated as a hazardous waste site by any Governmental Authority, that neither such Approval Requirement Asset nor any adjoining property contains or has ever contained any Hazardous Substance under any law pertaining to health or the environment, and that neither such Approval Requirement Asset nor any use or activity thereon violates or is or could be subject to any response, remediation, clean up, or other obligation under any law pertaining to health or the environment including without limitation, an Environmental Report (Phase I’s and, if appropriate, Phase II’s) made within thirty (30) days prior to the date of each Borrowing by an engineering firm, and of a scope and in form and content satisfactory to Administrative Agent, showing that there is no evidence of any Hazardous Substance which has been generated, treated, stored, released, or disposed of in such Approval Requirement Asset, and such additional evidence as may be required by Administrative Agent. All reports, drafts of reports, and recommendations, whether written or oral, from such engineering firm shall be made available and communicated to Administrative Agent; |
| (C) | any Engineering Report and Zoning Report (and any other documentation reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent) for such Approval Requirement Asset providing (I) evidence that such Approval Requirement Asset abuts and has fully adequate direct and free access to one or more public streets, dedicated to public use, fully installed and accepted by the appropriate Governmental Authority, that all fees, costs and expenses of the installation and acceptance thereof have been paid in full, and that there are no restrictions on the use and enjoyment of such streets which would adversely affect such Approval Requirement Asset; (II) evidence that all applicable zoning ordinances, restrictive covenants, and laws affecting such Approval Requirement Asset permit the use for which such Approval Requirement Asset is intended and have been or will be complied with without the existence of any variance, non-complying use, nonconforming use or other special exception; (III) evidence that such Approval Requirement Asset and improvements comply and will comply with all laws regarding subdivision and platting and would so comply if such Approval Requirement Asset and the improvements thereon were conveyed as a separate parcel; and (IV) evidence of compliance by Borrowers and such Approval Requirement Asset, and any proposed construction, use and occupancy of the improvements, with such other applicable laws as Administrative Agent may request, including all laws regarding access and facilities for handicapped or disabled persons including, without limitation and to the extent applicable, The Federal Architectural Barriers Act (42 U.S.C. § 4151 et seq.), The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 (42 U.S.C. § 3601 et seq.), The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.), The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. § 794), and any applicable state requirements, with such exceptions therefrom as previously disclosed in writing and accepted by Administrative Agent; and |
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| (D) | Reliance letters from the persons providing the Environmental Reports, the Engineering Reports and the Appraisals for such property, which reliance letters permit the Lenders and the Administrative Agent to rely on such reports and appraisals, in form and substance satisfactory to the Administrative Agent; and |
(viii) Copies of the Mortgage and all Mortgage File Required Documents with respect to such Property;
(ix) Copies of either (x) the Title Insurance Policy with respect to such Property or (y) a marked or initialed binding commitment that is effective as a Title Insurance Policy in respect of such Property, provided that in the case of this clause (ix) the applicable Borrower shall deliver a fully issued Title Insurance Policy in the form and with the coverages and endorsements provided in such marked or initialed binding commitment within thirty (30) days following the date such Property becomes a Financed Property;
(x) A completed Flood Hazard Determination with respect to such Property; and
(xi) If the Property is new construction or has not previously been occupied by a resident, the certificate of occupancy that establishes that the Property may be occupied.
“Property Loan” means a Loan requested by a Borrower pursuant to Section 2.02(a)(i).
“Property Manager” means, with respect to each parcel of Financed Property, the Person that is directly responsible for the day-to-day management of such parcel, including leasing and collecting of Rents in respect thereto, pursuant to a Management Agreement.
“Proposed Scheduled Renovation Work” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(a).
“Proscribed Person” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(v)(ii).
“Published 30 Day Average SOFR” means, with respect to any day: the “30-day Average SOFR” published on or about 2:30 p.m. (New York City time) on the NYFRB’s Website at https://apps.newyorkfed.org/markets/autorates/sofr-avg-ind on the SOFR Determination Date or at such other page as may replace such page on the NYFRB’s Website (as determined by the Administrative Agent and identified to the Calculation Agent in writing); provided that if no such average of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate is published on the SOFR Determination Date, Published 30 Day Average SOFR will be the “30-day Average SOFR” published on the following U.S. Government Securities Business Day.
“Purchase Agreement” means any customary purchase agreement reflecting market standard terms entered into by a Borrower or its Affiliate and a third party seller of a Property or Approved Single Plat Development who is not an Affiliate of any Loan Party.
“Purchase Price” means:
| (a) | with respect to any Property (other than any Property located on an Approved Single Plat Development), the sum (without duplication) of (i) as applicable, the price at which such Property was purchased by the applicable Borrower or its Affiliate pursuant to the applicable Purchase Agreement or the price paid by the applicable Borrower or its Affiliate at auction as demonstrated by written evidence to the Administrative Agent’s satisfaction (without deduction or addition for prorations or adjustments), (ii) the actual, bona fide out-of-pocket closing costs paid by the applicable Borrower or its Affiliate with respect to the acquisition of such Property, including, but not limited to legal, title, escrow and appraisal costs and expenses, not to exceed five percent (5%) of the purchase price of such Property under clause (i) hereof, (iii) taxes, assessments, water and sewer charges and current HOA Fees (if applicable), and arrearages of HOA Fees and similar fees existing on the Acquisition Date for such Property that are required to clear title to such Property to the extent paid by the applicable Borrower or its Affiliate in order to acquire such Property in the aggregate not to exceed ten percent (10%) of the purchase price of such Property under clause (i) hereof and (iv) solely in the case of any Stabilized Property that at the time of the initial Loan with respect to such Stabilized Property was a Non-Stabilized Property (as set forth in the related Borrowing Request), the amount of Actual Renovation Expenses for such Property; |
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| (b) | with respect to any Property located on an Approved Single Plat Development, subject to such discounts and adjustments as may be determined by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion, an amount equal to the product of (x) a fraction (expressed as a percentage) equal to (i) the square footage of such Property, divided by (ii) the square footage of all structures and improvements on such Approved Single Plat Development, and (y) the Purchase Price of the Approved Single Plat Development in which such Property is located; |
| (c) | with respect to any Approved Single Plat Development, the sum (without duplication) of (i) the price at which the related single tax parcel was purchased by the applicable Borrower or its Affiliate pursuant to the applicable Purchase Agreement or the price paid by the applicable Borrower or its Affiliate at auction as demonstrated by written evidence to the Administrative Agent’s satisfaction (without deduction or addition for prorations or adjustments), (ii) the actual, bona fide out-of-pocket closing costs paid by the applicable Borrower or its Affiliate with respect to the acquisition of such single tax parcel, including, but not limited to legal, title, escrow and appraisal costs and expenses, not to exceed five percent (5%) of the purchase price of such single tax parcel under clause (A) hereof, (iii) taxes, assessments, water and sewer charges) existing on the Acquisition Date for such single tax parcel that are required to clear title to such single tax parcel to the extent paid by the applicable Borrower or its Affiliate in order to acquire such single tax parcel in the aggregate not to exceed ten percent (10%) of the purchase price of such single tax parcel under clause (A) hereof, and (iv) the amount of Actual Renovation Expenses with respect to the Financed Properties located on such Approved Single Plat Development. |
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Purchase Price of any Property that is (i) not an Eligible Property (beyond the applicable Cure Period), (ii) an Aged Non-Stabilized Property or (iii) located on a Single Plat Development that is not an Approved Single Plat Development, shall be zero, for all purposes of this Agreement, including for purposes of calculating the Loan to Cost Ratio for such Property
“QFC” has the meaning assigned to the term “qualified financial contract” in, and shall be interpreted in accordance with, 12 U.S.C. 5390(c)(8)(D).
“QFC Credit Support” has the meaning assigned to it in Section 10.27.
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“Qualified Institution” means (a) Computershare or Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. or (b) any depository institution, national banking association or trust company organized under the laws of the United States or any State (or any domestic branch of a foreign bank), (i) (A) that has or the parent of which has, either (1) a long-term unsecured debt rating of “BBB+” or higher by S&P and “Baa1” or higher by Moody’s, or (2) a short-term unsecured debt rating of not less than “A-1” by S&P and not less than “P-1” by Moody’s or (B) is otherwise acceptable to the Administrative Agent and (ii) whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
“Qualified Property Manager” means:
| (a) | with respect to any SFR Property, (i) the Existing Property Manager, which is approved as a Qualified Property Manager as of the Closing Date, (ii) any Person that is under common Control with a Qualified Property Manager and (iii) any other Property Manager that is approved in writing by the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld); and |
| (b) | with respect to any Multi-Family Property, (i) any Person described in clause (a) above, and (ii) an unaffiliated property manager of the Property that (A) is a reputable, nationally or regionally recognized management company having at least five (5) years’ experience in the management of similar type properties, (B) at the time of its engagement as a Property Manager manages not less than five hundred (500) apartment units of similar quality to the Properties (“Comparable Units”) in the applicable State and an aggregate of not less than two thousand five hundred (2,500) Comparable Units and (C) is not the subject of a bankruptcy or similar insolvency proceeding. |
“Qualified Title Insurance Company” means each title insurance company agreed to on the Closing Date and any other title insurance company unless such title insurance company is disqualified by the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders in their sole discretion by notice to the Borrower Representative.
“Quarterly Determination Date” means March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31 of each calendar year.
“Rate Cap Collateral” means all of the right, title and interest of the Borrowers in and to (i) the Interest Rate Cap Agreement; (ii) all payments, distributions, disbursements or proceeds due, owing, payable or required to be delivered to the Borrowers in respect of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement or arising out of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, whether as contractual obligations, damages or otherwise; and (iii) all of each Borrower’s claims, rights, powers, privileges, authority, options, security interests, liens and remedies, if any, under or arising out of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, in each case including all accessions and additions to, substitutions for and replacements, products and proceeds of any or all of the foregoing.
“Rate Conversion” means the conversion of the Loans from Term SOFR Loans to either Prime Rate Loans or Alternate Rate Loans, or from Prime Rate Loans to Term SOFR Loans or Alternate Rate Loans in accordance with Section 2.04.
“Rating Agency” means S&P, Moody’s and any other nationally recognized statistical rating organizations designated by Administrative Agent with the consent of the Borrower Representative from time to time.
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“Real Estate Taxes” means any and all real estate and personal property taxes, assessments, water charges, sewer rents, levies, imposts, deductions, charges or withholdings, and all liabilities with respect thereto now or hereafter levied or assessed or imposed against any Property or part thereof or any Borrower.
“Records” means all leases, agreements, instruments, documents, books, records and other information (including tapes, disks, punch cards and related property and rights) maintained with respect to Assets or the Loan Parties, other than the Property Files.
“Recycled Entity Certificate” means a certificate in the form attached hereto as Exhibit M.
“Recycled Entity Conditions” is defined in the definition of “Special Purpose Entity.”
“Refinancing” means any bona fide secured or unsecured loan or similar financing transaction made by a third party that is not an Affiliate of any Loan Party undertaken by a Borrower or its Affiliate that is secured, directly or indirectly, by a Property that was a Financed Property and/or a Single Plat Development that was a Financed Single Plat Development immediately prior to such Refinancing, so long as no Default or Event of Default (including under Section 5.06) has occurred and is continuing at the time of such transaction or after giving pro forma effect thereto. A Refinancing may be effected in a transaction or series of transactions pursuant to a transfer of Financed Properties and/or Financed Single Plat Developments (and, in the case of Financed Single Plat Developments, shall include all Financed Properties located thereon) that are being refinanced to an Affiliate of a Borrower that shall act as the borrower in such third party financing, and such transaction shall, for all purposes of this Agreement, be considered a Refinancing. For the avoidance of doubt, no Borrower may incur any Indebtedness in connection with a Refinancing of any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development (other than in connection with the Refinancing of all of the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments resulting in the occurrence of the Final Collection Date or the removal of such Person as a Borrower under this Agreement and the payment in full of the Release Amount for all Financed Properties owned by such Borrower prior to its removal as a Borrower and all other amounts required to be paid hereunder in connection therewith). If the Loan Parties transfer any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development other than to an Affiliate in a transaction or series of transactions in connection with any Refinancing, then such transactions shall, for all purposes of this Agreement, be considered a Transfer and not a Refinancing.
“Refinancing or Transfer Date” means the date upon which a Refinancing or Transfer is consummated.
“Refinancing Proceeds” means, with respect to the Refinancing of any Financed Property, all amounts and proceeds ultimately realized or received, or anticipated to be realized or received, in such Refinancing with respect to such Financed Property; provided that, actual funds remitted in connection with the requirements in respect to “Refinancing Proceeds” hereunder may derive from any source available to the Borrowers and shall not be required to be funded directly by the applicable third party in such Refinancing.
“Register” has the meaning specified in Section 10.03(c).
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“Release Amount” means:
(a) for a Financed Property (other than any Financed Property located on a Single Plat Development), the following applicable amounts (hereinafter, the “Principal Portion” of the Release Amount) together with any other amounts specified in Section 2.16(a)(iv):
(i) in connection with any Refinancing of such Property during the Initial Term (so long as no Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing or would occur after giving effect to such Refinancing), an amount equal to the Allocated Loan Amount for such Property;
(ii) in connection with any Refinancing of such Property during any Extension Term (or if a Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing or would occur after giving effect to such Refinancing), the greater of (a) an amount equal to the Allocated Loan Amount for such Property and (b) 100% of Refinancing Proceeds from such Refinancing;
(iii) in connection with any Transfer of such Property during the Initial Term (so long as no Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing or would occur after giving effect to such Transfer), if the Allocated Loan Amount of all Properties and (without double counting) Single Plat Developments to be Transferred (when aggregated with all Transfers pursuant to this clause (iii) and clause (b)(iii) below) is (A) ten percent (10%) or less of the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of all Financed Properties , then an amount equal to the Allocated Loan Amount for such Financed Property, (B) more than ten percent (10%) but less than twenty percent (20%) of the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of all Financed Properties, then an amount equal to (I) the Allocated Loan Amount for such Property multiplied by (II) one hundred five percent (105%), (C) more than twenty percent (20%) but less than thirty percent (30%) of the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of all Financed Properties , then an amount equal to (I) the Allocated Loan Amount for such Property multiplied by (II) one hundred ten percent (110%) or (D) more than thirty percent (30%) of the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of all Financed Properties, then an amount equal to (I) the Allocated Loan Amount for such Financed Property multiplied by (II) one hundred fifteen percent (115%); or
(iv) in connection with any Transfer of such Property during any Extension Term (or if a Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing or would occur after giving effect to such Transfer), an amount equal to the greater of (a) an amount equal to (A) the Allocated Loan Amount for such Property multiplied by (B) one hundred twenty percent (120%) and (b) 100% of the Transfer Proceeds from such Transfer; and
(b) for a Financed Single Plat Development (and any Financed Properties located on such Financed Single Plat Development), the following applicable amounts (hereinafter, the “Principal Portion” of the Release Amount) together with any other amounts specified in Section 2.16(a)(iv):
(i) in connection with any Refinancing of such Financed Single Plat Development (or any Financed Properties on such Financed Single Plat Development) during the Initial Term (so long as no Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing or would occur after giving effect to such Refinancing), an amount equal to the Allocated Loan Amount for such Financed Single Plat Development;
(ii) in connection with any Refinancing of such Financed Single Plat Development (or any Financed Properties on such Financed Single Plat Development) during any Extension Term (or if a Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing or would occur after giving effect to such Refinancing), the greater of (A) an amount equal to the Allocated Loan Amount for such Financed Single Plat Development, and (B) 100% of Refinancing Proceeds from such Refinancing of such Financed Single Plat Development;
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(iii) in connection with any Transfer of such Financed Single Plat Development (or any Financed Properties on such Financed Single Plat Development) during the Initial Term (so long as no Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing or would occur after giving effect to such Transfer), if the Allocated Loan Amount of Financed Single Plat Developments and (without double counting) Properties to be Transferred (when aggregated with all Transfers pursuant to this clause (iii) and clause (a)(iii) above) is (A) ten percent (10%) or less of the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of Financed Single Plat Developments and (without double counting) Financed Properties, then an amount equal to the Allocated Loan Amount for such Single Plat Development, (B) more than ten percent (10%) but less than twenty percent (20%) of the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of all Financed Single Plat Developments and (without double counting) Financed Properties, then an amount equal to (I) the Allocated Loan Amount for such Single Plat Development, multiplied by (II) one hundred five percent (105%), (C) more than twenty percent (20%) but less than thirty percent (30%) of the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of all Financed Single Plat Developments and (without double counting) Financed Properties, then an amount equal to (I) the Allocated Loan Amount for such Single Plat Development, multiplied by (II) one hundred ten percent (110%) or (D) more than thirty percent (30%) of the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of all Financed Single Plat Developments and (without double counting) Financed Properties, then an amount equal to (I) the Allocated Loan Amount for such Single Plat Development, multiplied by (II) one hundred fifteen percent (115%); or
(iv) in connection with any Transfer of such Financed Single Plat Development during any Extension Term (or if a Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing or would occur after giving effect to such Transfer), an amount equal to the greater of (a) an amount equal to (A) the Allocated Loan Amount for such Single Plat Development, multiplied by (B) one hundred twenty percent (120%) and (b) 100% of the Transfer Proceeds from such Transfer of such Financed Single Plat Development.
“Relevant Governmental Body” means the Board and/or the NYFRB, or a committee officially endorsed or convened by the Board and/or the NYFRB or any successor thereto.
“Relevant Party” means each Loan Party and each Sponsor (and, collectively “Relevant Parties”).
“Renovation Expenses” means, the costs and expenses incurred to renovate a Property so that such Property satisfies clauses (i) and (ii) of the definition of “Completion Requirements”. For the avoidance of doubt, Renovation Expenses do not include any fees, costs or expenses associated with any ongoing recurring repairs or maintenance to any Property.
“Renovation Loan” means a Loan requested by a Borrower pursuant to Section 2.02(a)(ii).
“Renovation Reserves” has the meaning specified in Section 6.02(a).
“Renovation Reserves Account” means the account identified as the “Renovation Reserves Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 in replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative. The Renovation Reserves Account shall be an Eligible Account.
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“Renovation Standards” means the maintenance, repairs, improvements and installations that are necessary (i) for a Property to conform to applicable Legal Requirements and not deviate from local rental market standards for the area in which such Property is located, (ii) for a Property to conform to Requirements for Existing Housing One to Four Family Units (4905.1) or Minimum Property Standard for One and Two Family Dwellings (200.926) as applicable, as published by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and (iii) to complete maintenance, repairs, improvements and installations identified in the Scheduled Renovation Work for a Non-Stabilized Property.
“Renovation Standards Inspection” has the meaning specified in Section 6.02(a).
“Rent Collection Account” means a depositary account in the name of a Pkg Parent maintained at a Property Account Bank into which Rents from Properties of each Borrower that is a Subsidiary of such Pkg Parent are collected or deposited.
“Rents” means, with respect to each Property, all rents and rent equivalents and any fees, payments or other compensation from any Tenant.
“Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement” means an interest rate cap agreement from an Approved Counterparty (or, in the event that a Rate Conversion has occurred, an amended interest rate cap agreement from an Approved Counterparty) with terms that are the same in all material respects as the terms of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement except that (i) the same shall be effective as of the date required in Section 5.03 in connection with a replacement pursuant to Section 5.03 (A) following a downgrade, withdrawal or qualification of the long-term unsecured debt rating of the Counterparty or (B) following a Rate Conversion, (ii) the same shall be effective as of the first day of any Extension Term in connection with a replacement (or extension of the then-existing Interest Rate Cap Agreement) related to an extension of the Maturity Date pursuant to Section 2.08 and (iii) if a Rate Conversion has occurred and is continuing, the interest rate cap agreement shall provide protection from an increase in the Alternate Index Rate or Prime Index Rate, as applicable pursuant to Section 2.04.
“Replacement Management Agreement” means, collectively, (a) either (i) a property management agreement with a Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager, as applicable, substantially in the same form and substance as the related Existing Management Agreement or (ii) a property management agreement with a Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager, as applicable, reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders in form and substance, and (b) an Assignment of Management Agreement, executed and delivered to the Administrative Agent by Borrower and such Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager, as applicable, at the Borrowers’ expense.
“Replacement BRG Sponsor Guaranty” means a replacement guaranty in substantially the same form and substance as the BRG Sponsor Guaranty, with such changes as the Administrative Agent may accept in its sole discretion such that (i) the Replacement Sponsor Guaranty shall cover all liabilities previously accrued under the BRG Sponsor Guaranty and accruing from and after the date of such replacement and (ii) the Initial BRG Sponsor shall be fully and completely released (retrospectively and prospectively) from any and all liability under the BRG Sponsor Guaranty.
“Reportable Event” has the meaning set forth in Section 4043 of ERISA.
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“Request for Release” means a request for release of Collateral in connection with any Refinancing or Transfer or the Final Collection Date, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit F.
“Request for Release Report” means a report described in Section 2.16(a)(iii), substantially in the form agreed to separately in writing between the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent (or, at any time that the same Person acts as Administrative Agent and Calculation Agent, any form provided by the Calculation Agent at such time).
“Required Notional Amount” is defined in the definition of “Interest Rate Cap Agreement.”
“Reserve Accounts” means, collectively, the Renovation Reserves Account, the Debt Service Reserves Account, the Tax Reserve Account, the Insurance Reserves Account, the Standing Reserves Account, the Special Reserves Account, the Debt Service Account and any other reserve or escrow account established pursuant to the Loan Documents.
“Reserve Release Date” means any Business Day of a calendar month as requested by the Borrower Representative pursuant to a Reserve Release Request; provided that there shall be no more than one (1) Reserve Release Date in any calendar month.
“Reserve Release Request” means any written request by the Borrower Representative for a release of Reserves held in a Reserve Account made in accordance with Article VI.
“Reserve Release Request Report” means a report described in Section 6.11(e)(ii), substantially in the form agreed to separately in writing between the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent (or, at any time that the same Person acts as Administrative Agent and Calculation Agent, any form provided by the Calculation Agent at such time).
“Reserves” means, collectively, the Renovation Reserves, the Debt Service Reserves, the Tax Reserve, the Insurance Reserves, the Standing Reserves, the Special Reserves and any funds deposited into any other Reserve Account.
“Resolution Authority” means an EEA Resolution Authority or, with respect to any UK Financial Institution, a UK Resolution Authority.
“Responsible Officer” means, as to (i) any Person (other than the Calculation Agent and Paying Agent), the chief executive officer or president or, with respect to financial matters, the chief financial officer or treasurer of such Person; provided, that in the event any such officer is unavailable at any time he or she is required to take any action hereunder, Responsible Officer means any officer authorized to act on such officer’s behalf as demonstrated by a certified resolution or (ii) the Calculation or the Paying Agent, any officer in the corporate trust division or department of the Calculation Agent or the Paying Agent, as applicable, with direct responsibility for the administration of this Agreement and, with respect to a particular matter, any other officer in the corporate trust division or department to whom such matter is referred because of such officer’s knowledge of and familiarity with the particular subject.
“Restricted Junior Payment” means, with respect to any Person, (i) any dividend or other distribution of any nature (cash, securities, assets, Indebtedness or otherwise) and any payment, by virtue of redemption, retirement or otherwise, on any class of Equity Interests or subordinate Indebtedness issued by such Person, whether such Equity Interests are now or may hereafter be authorized or outstanding and any distribution in respect of any of the foregoing, whether directly or indirectly, other than any distribution of Financed Properties in connection with a Refinancing, (ii) any redemption, retirement, sinking fund or similar payment, purchase or other acquisition for value, direct or indirect, of any Equity Interests or subordinate Indebtedness of such Person now or hereafter outstanding, or (iii) any payment of management or similar fees by such Person (other than payment of property management fees under any Management Agreement to the extent expressly permitted by this Agreement). For the avoidance of doubt, any distribution by a Loan Party consisting of Equity Interests effected solely for the purpose of the consummation of a Refinancing (subject to compliance with Section 2.16) shall not constitute a Restricted Junior Payment.
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“Retained Interest” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.07(a).
“Risk Retention Sponsor” means Bluerock Residential Holdings, LP, a Delaware limited partnership.
“S&P” means Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, a Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC business, and its successors.
“Sample Pool” means, with respect to Financed Properties in any calendar month, such Financed Properties where the Scheduled Renovation Work was most recently completed and that are identified in a report delivered by the Borrower Representative to the Administrative Agent and the Diligence Agent on the fifteenth (15th) day and the last day of such calendar month (and, if any such date is not a Business Day, on the immediately succeeding Business Day); provided that (x) any such report shall include each Financed Property where the Scheduled Renovation Work was completed since the date of the immediately preceding report and (y) no Financed Property shall be included in more than one report or more than one Sample Pool.
“Scheduled Renovation Work” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(a).
“Second Extension Term” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.08.
“Section 8 Housing Tenants” means Tenants paying all or a portion of any Rent with vouchers provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development housing choice voucher program, commonly referred to as “Section 8”, and including herein any replacement, successor or similar federal or state program.
“Secured Parties” means, collectively, the Lenders, the Administrative Agent, each Servicing Agent, the Collateral Agent and each other Indemnified Party.
“Securities Account Control Agreement” means with respect to any Eligible Account, the controlled account agreement by and the Borrower Representative, the Paying Agent in its capacity as the Securities Intermediary and the Administrative Agent, providing for the exclusive control of such Eligible Account during an Event of Default, substantially in the form of Exhibit A or such other form as may be reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, as the same may be amended, restated, replaced, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.
“Securities Intermediary” means the Paying Agent in its capacity as Securities Intermediary hereunder and under any Securities Account Control Agreement.
“Securities Intermediary Account Bank” means (a) Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and (b) any other financial institution at which an Eligible Account is maintained. Each Securities Intermediary Account Bank shall be a Qualified Institution. The initial Securities Intermediary Account Bank shall be Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
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“Security Deposit Account” means a depositary account in the name of a Pkg Parent maintained at a Property Account Bank into which security deposits from Properties of each Borrower that is a Subsidiary of such Pkg Parent are collected or deposited.
“Security Procedure Agreement” means that certain security procedure agreement by and between the Administrative Agent and the Paying Agent, specifying the security procedure selected by the Administrative Agent pursuant to which the Paying Agent shall confirm instructions received from the Administrative Agent in connection with the applicable Accounts.
“SEL” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.04(a)(i).
“Selected Financed Property Sample” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(a).
“Servicing Agents” means, collectively, the Paying Agent, the Calculation Agent and the Diligence Agent, and “Servicing Agent” means any one of them.
“Settlement Period” means, (i) as to the initial Monthly Payment Date, the period beginning on, and including, the date hereof and ending on, and including, the last day of the most recently ended calendar month prior to such Monthly Payment Date and (ii) as to any subsequent Monthly Payment Date, the period beginning on, and including, the first day of the most recently ended calendar month and ending on, and including, the last day of the most recently ended calendar month prior to such Monthly Payment Date; provided, that the final Settlement Period shall begin on, and include, the first day of the most recently ended calendar month prior to the calendar month during which the Maturity Date occurs and shall end on the Maturity Date.
“Severed Loan Documents” has the meaning assigned to that term in Section 7.02(c).
“SFR Property” means any Property that is not a Multi-Family Property.
“Single Plat Development” means a horizontal property development located on a single tax parcel, comprised of multiple one to four unit residential properties.
“SOFR” means a rate equal to the secured overnight financing rate as administered by the SOFR Administrator.
“SOFR Administrator” means the NYFRB (or a successor administrator of the secured overnight financing rate).
“SOFR Administrator’s Website” means the website of the NYFRB, currently at http:www.newyorkfed.org, or any successor source for the secured overnight financing rate identified as such by the SOFR Administrator from time to time.
“SOFR Average” means, for any Settlement Period and the Interest Determination Date for such Settlement Period, the compounded average of SOFR over a rolling calendar period of thirty (30) days (“30-Day SOFR Average”) on such Interest Determination Date, with the rate, or methodology for this rate, and conventions for this rate being established by the Administrative Agent in accordance with:
(1) the “30-day Average SOFR” published on the SOFR Administrator’s Website at https://apps.newyorkfed.org/markets/autorates/sofr-avg-ind or any successor or successor page thereto established by the SOFR Administrator (as calculated by the Administrative Agent and rounded upwards, if necessary, to the nearest 1/1,000 of 1%); provided, that if as of 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on any Interest Determination Date such 30-Day SOFR Average has not been published on the SOFR Administrator’s Website and a Benchmark Replacement Date with respect to the SOFR Average has not occurred, then SOFR Average for the related Settlement Period will be the 30-Day SOFR Average as published on the SOFR Administrator’s Website on the first preceding U.S. Government Securities Business Day for which such 30-Day SOFR Average was published on the SOFR Administrator’s Website so long as such first preceding U.S. Government Securities Business Day is not more than three (3) U.S. Government Securities Business Days prior to such Interest Determination Date; and provided, further, that:
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(2) if, and to the extent that, the Administrative Agent determines that 30-Day Average SOFR cannot be determined in accordance with clause (1) above, then the rate, or methodology for this rate, and conventions for this rate that have been selected by the Administrative Agent giving due consideration to any industry accepted market practice for similar U.S. dollar-denominated floating rate balance sheet loans;
provided, further, that if the Administrative Agent determines (or the Calculation Agent notifies the Administrative Agent and the Borrowers) that any such rate, methodology or convention determined in accordance with clause (1) or clause (2) is not administratively feasible for the Administrative Agent or the Calculation Agent, then SOFR Average will be deemed unable to be determined for purposes of the definition of “Benchmark Replacement”.
Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything herein to the contrary, in no event shall SOFR Average be less than the Index Floor.
“Sole Lead Arranger” means Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.
“Solvent” means, with respect to any Person or any consolidated group, on any date of determination, that on such date (i) the fair saleable value of such Person’s or consolidated group’s assets exceeds its total liabilities, including subordinated, unliquidated, disputed and contingent liabilities, (ii) the fair saleable value of such Person’s or consolidated group’s assets exceeds its probable liabilities, as applicable, including the maximum amount of its contingent liabilities on its debts as such debts become absolute and matured, (iii) such Person’s or consolidated group’s assets do not constitute unreasonably small capital to carry out its business as conducted or as proposed to be conducted and (iv) such Person or consolidated group does not intend to, and does not believe that it will, incur debt and liabilities (including contingent liabilities and other commitments) beyond its ability to pay such debt and liabilities as they mature (taking into account the timing and amounts of cash to be received by it and the amounts to be payable on or in respect of its obligations).
“Special Purpose Entity” means a limited liability company that at all times since its date of formation (subject to the proviso at the end hereof) has complied with, and shall at all times comply with, the following requirements. Such entity:
(a) is and shall be organized solely for the purpose of (A) in the case of any Borrower (other than a TRS Borrower), acquiring, renovating, rehabilitating, owning, maintaining, holding, selling, transferring, financing, refinancing, improving, leasing, managing and operating Properties, entering into and performing its obligations under the Loan Documents to which it is a party with the Administrative Agent, refinancing the Properties in connection with a repayment of any Loan, and transacting lawful business that is incident, necessary and appropriate to accomplish the foregoing; (B) in the case of any TRS Borrower, marketing and selling Properties and transacting business that is incident, necessary and appropriate to accomplish the foregoing; and/or (C) in the case of an Equity Owner, owning, holding, financing, selling or transferring it equity interests in one or more Special Purpose Entities (to the extent otherwise permitted hereunder) and transacting any lawful business that is incident, necessary and appropriate to accomplish the foregoing; provided, however, that (i) all right, title, interest and estate in the Previously-Owned Properties were transferred and conveyed by Borrower and/or Borrower TRS, as applicable, to the applicable Previously-Owned Properties Transferee and (ii) such entity previously acquired, renovated, rehabilitated, owned, managed and operated Previously-Owned Properties and entered into a Prior Loan (which shall not be deemed a violation of this clause (a)), and on or prior to the Closing Date (or, with respect to any Additional Loan Party, the applicable Accession Date) each Prior Loan has been satisfied in full with respect to each Loan Party, subject to the accuracy of the representations and warranties set forth in Section 4.01(x) of this Agreement (the “Recycled Entity Conditions”);
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(b) has not engaged and shall not engage in any business unrelated to (A) in the case of any Borrower (other than a TRS Borrower), the acquisition, renovation, rehabilitation, ownership, maintenance, holding, sale, transfer, refinancing, leasing, financing, improvement, management or operation of any one or more Properties, (B) in the case of any TRS Borrower, the marketing and sale of the Properties, and/or (C) in the case of any Equity Owner, owning Equity Interests of one or more Special Purpose Entities; provided, however, that (1) prior to the Closing Date the Borrowers previously owned, managed, marketed and sold Previously-Owned Properties (which shall not be deemed to be a violation of this paragraph (b) and (2) on or prior to the Closing Date all right, title, interest and estate in the Previously-Owned Properties were transferred and conveyed by Borrowers to the applicable Previously-Owned Properties Transferees;
(c) has not owned and shall not own any real property other than, in the case of any Borrower, any one or more Properties (other than Previously-Owned Properties that, on or prior to the Closing Date, were transferred and conveyed to the applicable Previously-Owned Properties Transferees);
(d) does not have and shall not have any assets other than (A) in the case of a Borrower, any one or more Properties, Permitted Investments, personal property necessary or incidental to its ownership and operation of such Properties, including cash and cash equivalents, and/or (B) in the case of an Equity Owner, its Equity Interests in one or more Special Purpose Entities and personal property necessary or incidental to its ownership of such interests, including cash and cash equivalents;
(e) shall not, except to the extent permitted under this agreement, engage in, seek, consent to or permit, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any (i) dissolution, winding up, liquidation, consolidation, division or merger, or (ii) sale or other transfer of all or substantially all its assets or any sale of assets outside the ordinary course of its business;
(f) shall not consent to or permit any amendment of its articles of organization, certificate of formation, operating agreement or other formation document or organizational document (as applicable) (unless required by law) with respect to the matters set forth in this definition or matters as to which such formation document requires prior written consent of the Administrative Agent, in each case without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and, in the case of any such amendments determined by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion to be material and adverse to the Lenders, the consent of the Majority Lenders;
(g) (A) if such entity is a limited liability company (other than a limited liability company meeting all of the requirements applicable to a single-member limited liability company set forth in this definition of “Special Purpose Entity”), shall be a Delaware entity and has and shall have at least one (1) member that is a Special Purpose Entity that is a single-member Delaware limited liability company, that has at least one (1) Independent Director and that directly owns at least one-tenth-of-one percent (0.1%) of the equity of the limited liability company and (B) if such entity is a statutory trust, shall be a Delaware entity with the Owner Trustee serving as sole trustee;
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(h) if such entity is a single-member limited liability company, (i) is and shall be a Delaware limited liability company, (ii) has and shall have at least one (1) Independent Director, (iii) shall not take any Material Action and shall not cause or permit the members or managers of such limited liability company to take any Material Action, in each case unless two (2) Independent Directors then serving as managers of the limited liability company shall have given their prior written consent to such action, and (iv) has and shall have one (1) natural person (who may but need not be Independent Directors) who are not members of the limited liability company, that have signed its limited liability company agreement and that, under the terms of such limited liability company agreement become a member of the limited liability company immediately prior to the withdrawal or dissolution of the last remaining member of the limited liability company;
(i) shall not (and has and shall have a limited liability agreement or operating agreement, as applicable, providing that such entity shall not) (I) except as otherwise permitted by this Agreement, dissolve, merge, liquidate, consolidate or divide; (II) except as otherwise permitted by this Agreement, sell all or substantially all of its assets; (III) amend its organizational documents with respect to the matters set forth in this definition without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and, in the case of any such amendments determined by the Administrative Agent to be material and adverse to the Lenders, the consent of the Majority Lenders; or (IV) without the affirmative vote of one (1) Independent Director of itself: (A) file or consent to the filing of any bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization case or proceeding, institute any proceedings under any applicable insolvency law or otherwise seek relief under any laws relating to the relief from debts or the protection of debtors generally, file a voluntary bankruptcy petition or any other bankruptcy or insolvency petition or otherwise institute insolvency proceedings; (B) seek or consent to the appointment of a receiver, liquidator, assignee, trustee, sequestrator, custodian or any similar official for the entity or a substantial portion of its property; (C) make an assignment for the benefit of the creditors of the entity; or (D) take any action in furtherance of any of the foregoing (actions described in clauses (A) through (D), collectively, the “Material Actions”);
(j) has been capitalized in a manner so that it is expected as of the Closing Date or the applicable Accession Date to at all times remain solvent and shall, to the extent of all available cash flow of such entity, pay its debts and liabilities (including a fairly-allocated portion of any personnel and overhead expenses that it shares with any Affiliate) from its assets as the same shall become due, and shall, to the extent of all available cash flow of such entity, maintain adequate capital for the normal obligations reasonably foreseeable in a business of its size and character and in light of its contemplated business operations; provided, however, that the foregoing provisions of this clause (j) shall not require any shareholder, partner or member of such entity, as applicable, to make additional capital contributions to such entity nor give rise to any liability or obligation on the part of any such shareholder, partner or member or any guarantor under any Loan Documents or otherwise;
(k) shall not fail to correct any known misunderstanding regarding the separate identity of such entity;
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(l) shall maintain books of account and books and records separate from those of any other Person and, to the extent that it is required to file its own tax returns under applicable law, shall file its own tax returns;
(m) shall maintain its own records, books, resolutions and agreements;
(n) shall not commingle its funds or assets with those of any other Person and shall not participate in any cash management system with any other Person, other than as permitted or required by this Agreement;
(o) shall hold its assets in its own name; provided that a Borrower TRS may hold assets in the name of the Borrower who owns the Equity Interests in such Borrower TRS;
(p) shall conduct its business in its name or in a name franchised or licensed to it by an entity other than its Affiliates, except for business conducted on behalf of itself by another Person under a property management agreement that is on commercially-reasonable terms, so long as the manager, or equivalent thereof, under such property management agreement holds itself out as its agent;
(q) (A) shall maintain its financial statements, accounting records and other entity documents separate from those of any other Person (other than as between a Borrower and its subsidiary Borrower TRS), (B) shall show, in its financial statements, if any, its assets and liabilities separate and apart from those of any other Person (other than as between a Borrower and its subsidiary Borrower TRS) and (C) shall not permit its assets to be listed as assets on the financial statements of any of its Affiliates (other than the other Loan Parties); provided, however, that its assets, liabilities, net worth and operating results may be included in a consolidated financial statement of an Affiliate, as required by GAAP, so long as any such consolidated financial statement contains a note indicating that the Special Purpose Entity’s separate assets and credit are not available to pay the debts of such Affiliate and that the Special Purpose Entity’s liabilities do not constitute obligations of such Affiliate except to the extent agreed to in such Affiliate’s guaranty of certain Obligations of the Special Purpose Entity (as applicable);
(r) shall use its own funds and assets to pay its own liabilities and expenses, including the salaries of its own employees, and a fairly allocated portion of any personnel and overhead expenses that it shares with any Affiliate; provided, however, that none of the foregoing shall require any direct or indirect shareholder, partner or member of such entity, as applicable, to make additional capital contributions or loans to, or otherwise make available any funds for, such entity or prohibit dividends or distributions to holders of Equity Interests in such entities to the extent not otherwise prohibited in this Agreement;
(s) shall observe all partnership or limited liability company formalities, as applicable, that are necessary to maintain its separate existence;
(t) shall not assume or guarantee or become obligated for the debts of any other Person, and shall not hold out itself or its credit or assets as being available to satisfy the obligations of any other Person, in each case, except as contemplated by this Agreement and the other Loan Documents with respect to each other Borrower and each other Equity Owner and, to the extent provided in the Loan Documents, each Sponsor, or as otherwise imposed by law;
(u) shall not acquire obligations or securities of its partners, members or shareholders or any other Affiliate (other than Equity Interests in other Loan Parties);
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(v) shall allocate fairly and reasonably any overhead expenses that are shared with any of its Affiliates or any guarantor of any of their respective obligations, or any Affiliate of any of the foregoing, including, but not limited to, paying for shared office space and for services performed by any employee or agent of an Affiliate;
(w) shall use separate stationery, invoices and checks bearing its name and not bearing the name of any other entity (unless such entity is clearly designated as being the Special Purpose Entity’s agent);
(x) shall not pledge its assets to secure the obligations of any other Person, except as required by this Agreement or the other Loan Documents;
(y) shall hold itself out and identify itself as a separate and distinct entity under its own name or in a name franchised or licensed to it by an entity other than an Affiliate of a Loan Party and not as a division or part of any other Person;
(z) shall maintain its assets in such a manner that it shall not be costly or difficult to segregate, ascertain or identify its individual assets from those of any other Person;
(aa) shall not make loans to any Person and shall not hold evidence of indebtedness issued by any other Person (other than cash and investment-grade securities issued by an entity that is not an Affiliate of or subject to common ownership with such entity); provided, that, subject to the Recycled Entity Conditions, the Borrowers remain obligated for certain contingent liabilities which survive the termination of the Prior Loans;
(bb) shall not identify its partners, members or shareholders, or any Affiliate of any of them, as a division or part of it;
(cc) other than capital contributions and distributions permitted under the terms of its organizational documents, shall not enter into or be a party to, any transaction with any of its partners, members, shareholders or Affiliates except (A) in the ordinary course of its business and in each case on terms which are intrinsically fair, commercially reasonable and are comparable to those of an arm’s-length transaction with an unrelated third party, (B) with respect to other Borrowers and Equity Owners pursuant to the Loan Documents, including in connection with the formation of a TRS Borrower and the contribution by Borrower of Collateral to such TRS Borrower, or (C) in connection with a Refinancing or Transfer otherwise permitted under this Agreement;
(dd) shall not have any obligation to, and shall not indemnify its partners, officers, directors, managers or members, as the case may be, in each case unless such an obligation or indemnification is fully subordinated to the Obligations and shall not constitute a claim against it in the event that its cash flow is insufficient to pay the Obligations;
(ee) shall not have any of its obligations guaranteed by any Affiliate except as provided by the Loan Documents;
(ff) shall not form, acquire or hold any subsidiary, except (i) Equity Interests in other Loan Parties and (ii) that the Equity Owners (including any new Equity Owner that becomes a party to this Agreement and the other applicable Loan Documents) may organize new Delaware limited liability companies that become Borrowers hereunder within sixty (60) days of their formation;
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(gg) shall maintain its bank accounts separate from those of any other Person and shall not permit any Affiliate independent access to its bank accounts (other than a Qualified Property Manager, acting in its capacity as agent pursuant to a Management Agreement), except as otherwise contemplated by the Loan Documents with respect to each Borrower;
(hh) is, and shall continue to be duly formed, validly existing, and in good standing in the state of its incorporation or formation and duly qualified in all other jurisdictions where it is required to be qualified in order to do business;
(ii) shall not enter into any transaction or series of transactions to adopt, file, effect or consummate a Division of itself, or otherwise permit any such Division of itself to be adopted, filed, effected or consummated;
(jj) if treated as a “disregarded entity” for U.S. federal income tax purposes, does not have and shall not have any obligation to reimburse its equityholders or any of their Affiliates (other than the other Loan Parties) for any taxes that such equityholders or any of their Affiliates (other than the other Loan Parties) may incur as a result of any profits or losses of such entity;
(kk) it has not incurred and will not incur any Indebtedness other than Permitted Indebtedness and any Prior Loan (which has been satisfied in full on or prior to the Closing Date or, with respect to any Additional Loan Party, the applicable Accession Date), Guarantees or indemnities (other than under its organizational documents), or been a co-borrower relating to prior Indebtedness (other than Indebtedness under any Prior Loan which has been satisfied in full on or prior to the Closing Date or, in the case of any Additional Loan Party, the applicable Accession Date), in each case that have not been released or discharged on or prior to the Closing Date or, with respect to any Additional Loan Party, the applicable Accession Date;
(ll) other than with respect to any Prior Loan or by reason of a Sponsor’s direct or indirect ownership of Equity Interests in such entity, it has no reason to believe that any creditors of its Affiliates previously relied on any assets owned by it in extending credit to such Affiliate;
(mm) with respect to any Prior Loan (i) such Prior Loan has been satisfied in full (x) with respect to each Loan Party as of the Closing Date, on or prior to the Closing Date and (y) with respect to each Additional Loan Party, on or prior to the applicable Accession Date, (ii) no Loan Party has any remaining liabilities or obligations in connection with any Prior Loan (other than environmental and other limited and customary indemnity obligations) and (iii) all collateral and security for any Prior Loan on any assets or property of the Loan Parties has been released (x) with respect to the Loan Parties as of the Closing Date, on or prior to the Closing Date and (y) with respect to any Additional Loan Party, on or prior to the applicable Accession Date;
provided, however, that the parties hereto acknowledge and agree that solely during the period ending prior to the Closing Date, such entity may have not complied with certain of the foregoing requirements relating to (i) Independent Directors, (ii) so called “springing members”, (iii) notations on consolidated financials, (iv) separate books and records, (v) ownership of any real property sold, transferred or otherwise disposed of prior to the date hereof, to the extent that any such real property did not meet the definition of “Property” in this Agreement and (vi) ownership of equity interests in subsidiaries which have been transferred on or before the date hereof.
“Special Reserves” has the meaning specified in Section 6.08.
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“Special Reserves Account” means the account identified as the “Special Reserves Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 in replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative. The Special Reserves Account shall be an Eligible Account.
“Specified Documents” means, with respect to any Property File, each document listed in the definition of “Property File”.
“Sponsor” means each of the Peak Sponsor and the BRG Sponsor.
“Sponsor Financial Covenants” means:
(a) with respect to the BRG Sponsor, the requirement that the BRG Sponsor maintain as of each Quarterly Determination Date:
(i) Tangible Net Worth of at least $400,000,000; and
(ii) Liquidity of at least $10,000,000; and
(b) with respect to the Peak Sponsor, the requirement that the Peak Sponsor maintain as of each Quarterly Determination Date:
(i) Tangible Net Worth of an amount equal to at least $25,000,000; and
(ii) Liquidity of at least $500,000.
“Sponsor Guaranty” means each of the Peak Sponsor Guaranty, the BRG Sponsor Guaranty and the Replacement BRG Sponsor Guaranty.
“Spread” means 2.80% per annum; provided that the Spread will be increased by 0.15% per annum during any Extension Term.
“Stabilized Property” means, as of any date of determination, either (i) an Eligible Property that is a Carry-Over Property, or (ii) an Eligible Property that satisfies the following: (a) the applicable Borrower has satisfied the Completion Requirements (with respect to any multi-unit Property, for all units), (b) the Property (including, for any multi-unit Property, all units) is leased to an Eligible Tenant pursuant to an Eligible Lease; provided that an Eligible Property that has been leased to an Eligible Tenant pursuant to an Eligible Lease shall continue to be a Stabilized Property if such tenancy is terminated as a result of the expiration or termination of such Eligible Lease, (c) the applicable Borrower has received the first monthly rent payment under the Eligible Lease for such Property and (d) the Diligence Agent has completed its due diligence review of such Property and confirmed that such Property satisfied clauses (a) and (b) above, and (v) in the case of any Financed Property that did not constitute a Stabilized Property on the date of the related Property Loan, (A) such Property is an Eligible Property and (B) unless the Borrower Representative notifies the Administrative Agent that the applicable Borrower will not be requesting a Renovation Loan in respect of such Property (which notification shall be final and non-revocable), a Renovation Loan has been made with respect to such Property. For the avoidance of doubt, a Stabilized Property cannot subsequently become a Non-Stabilized Property.
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“Standing Reserves” has the meaning specified in Section 6.07.
“Standing Reserves Account” means the account identified as the “Standing Reserves Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 in replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative. The Standing Reserves Account shall be an Eligible Account.
“State” means any state of the United States.
“Strike Price” means two and one-half percent (2.50%) per annum, or, following the occurrence of a Rate Conversion, the foregoing Strike Price.
“Subsidiary” means, with respect to any Person, any corporation, partnership or other entity of which at least a majority of the securities or other ownership interests having by the terms thereof ordinary voting power to elect a majority of the board of directors or other persons performing similar functions of such corporation, partnership or other entity (irrespective of whether or not at the time securities or other ownership interests of any other class or classes of such corporation, partnership or other entity shall have or might have voting power by reason of the happening of any contingency) is at the time directly or indirectly owned or controlled by such Person or one or more Subsidiaries of such Person or by such Person and one or more Subsidiaries of such Person.
“Supermajority Lenders” means, at any time, the Lender or Lenders, including Approved Participants (other than the Defaulting Lenders), whose Commitments (excluding the Commitments of any Defaulting Lenders) or, in the case of any Approved Participant, the portion of a Lender’s Commitment participated to it, or, if such Commitments are terminated, the aggregate outstanding principal amount of all Loans of such Lenders or Approved Participants, together exceed sixty-six and two thirds percent (66 ⅔%) of the Aggregate Commitment (excluding the Commitments of any Defaulting Lenders) at such time, or if such Commitments are terminated, the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance. For the avoidance of doubt, for purposes of this definition, (i) the Commitment or outstanding Loans of any Assigning Lender that assigns its voting rights to an Approved Participant shall be deemed reduced by the amount of the Commitment or Loans that is participated to such Approved Participant and (ii) any Approved Participant shall be deemed a Defaulting Lender to the extent and for so long as its related Assigning Lender becomes and remains a Defaulting Lender. The calculation of Supermajority Lenders shall in all circumstances be the sole responsibility of the Administrative Agent and such determination shall be binding on each Lender in all respects hereunder absent manifest error.
“Supported QFC” has the meaning assigned to it in Section 10.27.
“SWAP Rate” means the sum of (i) the bid side yield to maturity for the “on the run” United States Treasury note with a three year maturity plus (ii) the mid market three year swap spread, each as displayed on Telerate Page 19901 on Dow Jones Telerate, Inc. (or as determined by the Calculation Agent as of the first day of each Settlement Period from such other market source as the Administrative Agent determines if such Telerate Page 19901 or such service setting forth such yield and spread are not available at the time of determination by the Calculation Agent).
“Tangible Net Worth” means, with respect to any Person at any date, an amount equal to (a) the sum (without double counting) of (i) the consolidated stockholders’ equity of such Person and its Subsidiaries as the same would appear on a consolidated balance sheet of such Person and its Subsidiaries at such date prepared in accordance with GAAP, minus (b) to the extent included when determining stockholders’ equity of either Sponsor and its Subsidiaries: (i) the amount of any write-up in the book value of any assets reflected in any balance sheet resulting from revaluation thereof or any write-up in excess of the cost of such assets acquired, and (ii) the aggregate of all amounts appearing on the assets side of any such balance sheet for franchises, licenses, permits, patents, patent applications, copyrights, trademarks, service marks, trade names, goodwill, treasury stock, experimental or organizational expenses and other like assets which would be classified as intangible assets under GAAP, all determined on a consolidated basis.
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“Tax Reserves” has the meaning specified in Section 6.05(a).
“Tax Reserve Account” means the account identified as the “Tax Reserve Account” in the Securities Account Control Agreement established and maintained by the Securities Intermediary pursuant to Section 2.18 or such other account established pursuant to Section 2.18 in replacement thereof by the Securities Intermediary and designated in writing from time to time by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative. The Tax Reserve Account shall be an Eligible Account.
“Taxes” means all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, duties, deductions, withholdings (including backup withholding), assessments, fees or other charges imposed by any Governmental Authority, including any interest, additions to tax or penalties applicable thereto; and “Tax” shall have the correlative meaning.
“Tenant” means any lessee of any Property.
“Term SOFR” means, with respect to each Settlement Period, the Term SOFR Reference Rate for a one-month period as determined by the Administrative Agent on the Interest Determination Date for such Settlement Period, as such rate is published by the Term SOFR Administrator (as calculated by the Administrative Agent and rounded upwards, if necessary, to the nearest 1/1,000 of 1%); provided, that if as of 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on any Interest Determination Date the Term SOFR Reference Rate for a one-month period has not been published by the Term SOFR Administrator and a Benchmark Replacement Date with respect to the Term SOFR Reference Rate has not occurred, then Term SOFR for the related Settlement Period will be the Term SOFR Reference Rate for such one-month period as published by the Term SOFR Administrator on the first preceding U.S. Government Securities Business Day for which such Term SOFR Reference Rate for a one-month period was published by the Term SOFR Administrator so long as such first preceding U.S. Government Securities Business Day is not more than three (3) U.S. Government Securities Business Days prior to such Interest Determination Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything herein to the contrary, in no event shall Term SOFR be less than the Index Floor.
“Term SOFR Administrator” means CME Group Benchmark Administration Limited (CBA) (or a successor administrator of the Term SOFR Reference Rate selected by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion).
“Term SOFR Loan” means any Loan at such time as interest thereon accrues at a rate of interest based upon Term SOFR.
“Term SOFR Rate” means the sum of (i) Term SOFR and (ii) the Spread.
“Term SOFR Reference Rate” means the forward-looking term rate for a one-month period based on SOFR, currently identified on the Term SOFR Administrator’s website at https://www.cmegroup.com/market-data/cme-group-benchmark-administration/term-sofr.html.
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“Title Insurance Policy” means, with respect to each Financed Property, Financed Single Plat Development or Pending Advance Property, an ALTA mortgagee or owner, as applicable, title insurance policy issued by a Qualified Title Insurance Company in a form reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent (or, if a Property is in a State which does not permit the issuance of such ALTA policy, such form as shall be permitted in such State and determined by the Diligence Agent and reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent), in an amount equal to or greater than the Allocated Loan Amount with respect to such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, as applicable, issued with respect to such Property or such Single Plat Development and insuring the Lien of the Mortgage encumbering such Property or such Single Plat Development or the legal title to such Property or such Single Plat Development (i) in respect of executed originals, delivered to the Administrative Agent and (ii) posted to the Administrative Agent’s online data room pursuant to Section 5.01(t).
“Toxic Mold” means fungi that reproduces through the release of spores or the splitting of cells or other means that may pose a risk to human health or the environment or negatively affect the value of any Financed Property, including, but not limited to, mold, mildew, fungi and fungal spores.
“Transactions” has the meaning specified in Section 10.10(a).
“Transfer” means a bona fide voluntary or involuntary sale, conveyance, assignment, transfer or other transfer or disposal of the legal or beneficial ownership of a Financed Property or a Financed Single Plat Development, whether direct or indirect, by operation of law or otherwise, to a third party that is not an Affiliate of any Loan Party.
“Transfer Proceeds” means, with respect to the Transfer of any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, all amounts and proceeds realized or received with respect to such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development (including with respect to any grant of an option to purchase a legal or beneficial interest in such Financed Property or such Financed Single Plat Development).
“TRS Borrowers” means any direct subsidiary of an Equity Owner or any wholly-owned subsidiary of another Borrower that is treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a “taxable REIT subsidiary” that has been approved in writing by the Administrative Agent (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld) and has been added as a Borrower hereunder in accordance with Section 5.01(s). For the avoidance of doubt, the TRS Borrowers shall be Borrowers hereunder.
“UCC” means the Uniform Commercial Code, as in effect from time to time, of the State of New York or of any other state the laws of which are required as a result thereof to be applied in connection with the attachment, perfection or priority of, or remedies with respect to, any Secured Party’s Lien on any Collateral.
“UK Financial Institution” means any BRRD Undertaking (as such term is defined under the PRA Rulebook (as amended form time to time) promulgated by the United Kingdom Prudential Regulation Authority) or any person falling within IFPRU 11.6 of the FCA Handbook (as amended from time to time) promulgated by the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority, which includes certain credit institutions and investment firms, and certain affiliates of such credit institutions or investment firms.
“UK Resolution Authority” means the Bank of England or any other public administrative authority having responsibility for the resolution of any UK Financial Institution.
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“Unadjusted Benchmark Replacement” means the Benchmark Replacement determined under clause (a)(i) or (b)(i) of the definition thereof excluding the applicable Benchmark Replacement Adjustment.
“Underwriting Schedule” means the schedule setting forth the methodology for calculating the Underwritten Net Cash Flow agreed to on the Closing Date, as may be updated from time to time by the Administrative Agent in accordance herewith by written notice to the Borrower Representative.
“Underwritten Applicable Percentage” means, with respect to any Property, the percentage set forth in the Underwriting Schedule for the applicable revenue or expense category (as such percentage may be updated from time to time as deemed necessary by the Administrative Agent based upon the Administrative Agent’s reasonable underwriting criteria and the actual experience of the Borrowers) for the relevant metropolitan statistical area in which such Property is located.
“Underwritten Gross Income” means, as of any date of determination, the income for each applicable Financed Property or Pending Advance Property calculated as the sum of (i) with respect to a Stabilized Property, annualized actual in-place rent under the Lease or Leases on such Property less any incentives (including free rent or partial rent abatements) offered to Tenants in an amount greater than $150 for such Stabilized Property (a) for the current calendar month if such Property is not Vacant or (b) for the most recent calendar month that Property was not Vacant if such Property is Vacant plus (ii) with respect to a Non-Stabilized Property, the assumed rental payments for such Non-Stabilized Property determined by the Diligence Agent on the basis of (x) if the Borrowers’ total estimated rental payments for all Non-Stabilized Properties financed in the same Loan made (or to be made) with respect to such Property is lower than the total market rental payments estimated under the related Broker Price Opinions for all such Non-Stabilized Properties, the Borrowers’ estimated rental payments for such Non-Stabilized Property and (y) otherwise, the market rental payment estimated under the related Broker Price Opinion for each applicable Property.
“Underwritten NCF Multi-Unit Adjustment” means, as of any date of determination, with respect to any Property located in a Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, the adjustments deemed necessary by the Administrative Agent based upon the Administrative Agent’s reasonable underwriting criteria, as may be updated from time to time by the Administrative Agent, including (without limitation) as of the Closing Date, (A) a deduction of the greater of (x) $250 per residential unit at such Property per annum or (y) $50,000; (B) exclusion of (i) amounts representing non-recurring items and (ii) amounts received from (1) residential Tenants under month-to-month Leases, to the extent such amounts exceed five percent (5%) of the aggregate net cash flow receipts and revenue received on such multi-unit Property for the applicable annualized period and (2) Tenants under Leases where the term is set to expire in the next succeeding calendar quarter.
“Underwritten Net Cash Flow” means, as of any date of determination, with respect to any Property, the excess of (i) (A) Underwritten Gross Income less (B) the Underwritten Vacancy Adjustment over (ii) Underwritten Operating Expenses. Underwritten Net Cash Flow shall be subject to such other adjustments deemed necessary by the Administrative Agent based upon the Administrative Agent’s reasonable underwriting criteria and the actual experience of the Borrowers, including, without limitation, any Underwritten NCF Multi-Unit Adjustments (and the Administrative Agent shall provide written notice to the Borrower Representative of any change in such adjustments); provided, however, that any such adjustments (other than adjustments caused by variations in actual in-place rental payments or various actual in-place charges, costs or expenses) reflecting underwriting criteria that would result in an increased Underwritten Net Cash Flow compared to Underwritten Net Cash Flow calculated without giving effect to such adjustments shall be presented to the Lenders for review and shall become effective on the sixth (6th) Business Day after such presentation, unless the Majority Lenders object to such adjustments prior to such time in accordance with Section 10.22. Lenders constituting Majority Lenders shall have a right at any time to request, in accordance with Section 10.22, that the Administrative Agent review the then current assumptions for calculation of Underwritten Net Cash Flow to determine whether any additional adjustments are necessary; provided that such Majority Lenders shall provide a reasonably detailed written statement of their reasons for making such a request. The Calculation Agent’s calculation of Underwritten Net Cash Flow shall be final absent manifest error. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Underwritten Net Cash Flow of any Property that is (I) not an Eligible Property (beyond the applicable Cure Period) or (II) an Aged Non-Stabilized Property, shall be zero, for all purposes of this Agreement.
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“Underwritten Operating Expenses” means, as of any date of determination, an amount calculated for each applicable Financed Property and Pending Advance Property (in a consistent manner on a portfolio basis for all (i) Financed Properties and Pending Advance Properties or (ii) Financed Properties, as applicable) in accordance with the Underwriting Schedule, as follows:
(a) An annual property management fee equal to the Underwritten Applicable Percentage of (i) Underwritten Gross Income, less (ii) the Underwritten Vacancy Adjustment, plus
(b) Annualized in-place property tax expense, plus
(c) Annualized in-place homeowner association dues, plus
(d) Annualized insurance expense based on the Borrowers’ actual in-place insurance Policies, plus
(e) Annual property maintenance costs equal to the Underwritten Applicable Percentage of Purchase Price, plus
(f) Annual lease-up and marketing turnover costs equal to the Underwritten Applicable Percentage of Underwritten Gross Income, calculated at a rate of 1 minus the “Renewal Rate” as set forth on the Underwriting Schedule for the relevant metropolitan statistical area in which such Property is located,
(g) Annual property maintenance turnover costs equal to the Underwritten Applicable Percentage of Purchase Price, calculated at a rate of 1 minus the “Renewal Rate” as set forth on the Underwriting Schedule for the relevant metropolitan statistical area in which such Property is located, plus
(h) “CapEx Reserve” as set forth on the Underwriting Schedule for the relevant metropolitan statistical area in which such Property is located, plus
(i) If applicable, an adjustment to account for other operating expenses actually incurred by the Borrowers with respect to such Properties. Any such adjustment shall be based on the actual expenses incurred by the Borrowers with respect to the Stabilized Properties in the immediately preceding twelve (12) month period calculated using the quarterly financial statements delivered to the Administrative Agent and based on the monthly average number of Properties owned by the Borrowers during such period. Such additional operating expenses may include, but shall not be limited to, general expenses for the Properties to the extent not provided for in the management fees payable pursuant to any Management Agreement (including but not limited to cost of utilities, inventories, and fixed asset supplies consumed in the operation of the Properties, costs and fees of independent professionals (including legal, consultants and other professional expenses), technical consultants, operational experts (including quality assurance inspectors) or other third parties retained to perform services required or permitted hereunder). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the aforementioned additional operating expenses shall not include (A) expenses expressly addressed in clauses (a) through (h) above, (B) depreciation or amortization, (C) income taxes or other charges in the nature of income taxes, (D) any expenses (including legal, accounting and other professional fees, expenses and disbursements) incurred in connection with the making of any Loan or the sale, exchange, transfer, disposition, financing or refinancing of all or any portion of any Property or in connection with the recovery of Insurance Proceeds or Awards which are applied to prepay the Loans, (E) Capital Expenditures, (F) debt service, (G) expenses incurred in connection with the acquisition, initial renovation and initial leasing of Non-Stabilized Properties and other activities undertaken prior to such initial lease that do not constitute recurring operating expenses to be paid by the Loan Parties, including eviction of existing tenants, incentive payments to tenants (which shall be included in the calculation of Underwritten Gross Income, to the extent provided in the definition thereof) and other similar expenses, (H) any item of expense which would otherwise be considered to be an operating expense pursuant to the provisions above but is paid directly by any Tenant and not reimbursed to the applicable Borrower or its Affiliates in Underwritten Gross Income, (I) any service that is required to be provided by any Property Manager pursuant to the Management Agreement without compensation or reimbursement (other than the management fee set forth in the Management Agreement) and (J) any costs or overhead expenses incurred by any Property Manager relating to the build-up of its operating platform in new markets, including but not limited to, corporate accounting, human resources, payroll, benefits, information technology, asset management, acquisition and rehabilitation personnel and any other related costs and expenses, in each case to the extent not charged by any Property Manager to any Borrower.
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The methodology and assumptions used to calculate Underwritten Operating Expenses shall be subject to such change from time to time by the Administrative Agent based upon the Administrative Agent’s reasonable underwriting criteria and the actual experience of the Borrowers; provided that any such changes (other than changes caused by the variations in the actual in-place charges, costs or expenses) reflecting underwriting criteria that would result in a decreased Underwritten Operating Expenses compared to Underwritten Operating Expenses calculated without giving effect to such changes shall be presented to the Lenders for review and shall become effective on the sixth (6th) Business Day after such presentation, unless the Majority Lenders object to such changes prior to such time in accordance with Section 10.22. Lenders constituting Majority Lenders shall have a right, in accordance with Section 10.22, at any time to request that the Administrative Agent review the then current methodology for calculation of Underwritten Operating Expenses to determine whether any additional adjustments are necessary; provided that such Majority Lenders shall provide a reasonably detailed written statement of their reasons for making such a request. The Administrative Agent shall provide written notice to the Calculation Agent and the Borrower Representative of any such changes.
“Underwritten Vacancy Adjustment” means, as of any date of determination, in respect of any Financed Property, the product of (i) the Underwritten Gross Income plus other income as set forth on the Underwriting Schedule for the relevant metropolitan statistical area in which such Property is located and (ii) the Underwritten Vacancy Adjustment Percentage (or, with respect to any multi-unit Property, if greater, the Underwritten Vacancy Adjustment Multi-Unit Percentage for such Property).
“Underwritten Vacancy Adjustment Multi-Unit Percentage” means, as of any date of determination, with respect to any multi-unit Property, a percentage equal to (x) the greatest of (I) the market vacancy rate (as determined by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion) for properties similar to the units or Properties in the residential component of such multi-unit Property of comparable size in the market area in which such multi-unit Property is located that are professionally managed, (II) the Adjusted Actual Vacancy Rate at such multi-unit Property, as determined by the Administrative Agent, and (III) five percent (5%) of GPR and (y) a reduction of above market rents under residential Leases at such multi-unit Property to market rents as determined by the Administrative Agent.
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“Underwritten Vacancy Adjustment Percentage” means, as of any date of determination, a percentage equal to (i) with respect to a Stabilized Property, the greater of (x) the “Market Vacancy Assumption Percentage” set forth in the Underwriting Schedule and (y) the Actual Vacancy Rate for the related metropolitan statistical area at such time, and (ii) with respect to a Non-Stabilized Property, the “Market Vacancy Assumption Percentage” set forth in the Underwriting Schedule. For the avoidance of doubt, each reference to the “Market Vacancy Assumption Percentage” set forth in the Underwriting Schedule in this definition means the “Market Vacancy Assumption Percentage” for the relevant metropolitan statistical area in which such Property is located.
“United States” means the United States of America.
“Unrestricted Cash” means, as of any date (i) with respect to the Loan Parties, any cash or Permitted Investments not held (or required to be held) in any Collection Account, Disbursement Account, Reserve Account, Rent Collection Account or Security Deposit Account, to the extent the cash value thereof could be distributed as a Restricted Junior Payment by a Loan Party pursuant to Section 5.05(m) on such date, and (ii) with respect to any other Person, any cash or Permitted Investments not held or required to be held in or swept to any reserve account, collection account, disbursement account, rent collection account, tenant deposit account or similar account, to the extent the cash value thereof could be distributed as a Restricted Junior Payment by such Person in compliance with applicable law and all contractual obligations and the organizational documents of such Person on such date.
“Unused Fee” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.05(b).
“Upfront Reserves” means (i) with respect to any Non-Stabilized Property, the upfront Renovation Reserves, Debt Service Reserves, Tax Reserve and Insurance Reserves for such Non-Stabilized Property in the amounts required under Article VI and (ii) with respect to any Stabilized Property, the Standing Reserves, Tax Reserve and Insurance Reserves for such Stabilized Property in the amounts required under Article VI.
“U.S. Government Securities Business Day” means any day except for (a) a Saturday, (b) a Sunday, or (c) a day on which the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association, or any successor thereto, recommends that the fixed income departments of its members be closed for the entire day for purposes of trading in United States government securities.
“U.S. Person” means any Person that is a “United States person” as defined in Section 7701(a)(30) of the Code.
“U.S. Tax Compliance Certificate” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.13(f)(ii)(B)(3).
“U.S. Withholding Agent” means, with respect to any withholding required pursuant to the Code, Computershare Trust Company, N.A., in its capacity as Paying Agent hereunder or any successor thereto.
“Vacant” means, with respect to any Property, that such Property (i) has no Lease in place, (ii) has only a Lease in place that is past the expiration date and the Tenant under such expired Lease is not paying month-to-month rent or (iii) has only a Tenant that is a Delinquent Tenant.
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“Withholding Agent” means any Loan Party, the U.S. Withholding Agent and the Administrative Agent, as applicable.
“Write-Down and Conversion Powers” means, (a) with respect to any EEA Resolution Authority, the write-down and conversion powers of such EEA Resolution Authority from time to time under the Bail-In Legislation for the applicable EEA Member Country, which write-down and conversion powers are described in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule, and (b) with respect to the United Kingdom, any powers of the applicable Resolution Authority under the Bail-In Legislation to cancel, reduce, modify or change the form of a liability of any UK Financial Institution or any contract or instrument under which that liability arises, to convert all or part of that liability into shares, securities or obligations of that person or any other person, to provide that any such contract or instrument is to have effect as if a right had been exercised under it or to suspend any obligation in respect of that liability or any of the powers under that Bail-In Legislation that are related to or ancillary to any of those powers.
“Zoning Report” means, with respect to any Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property, a written report containing a summary of the current zoning district (including permitted uses and requirements for such zoning district) and any open violations, variances, special permits, conditions, exceptions or nonconforming issues of such Single Plat Development or Multi-Family Property delivered to the Administrative Agent in connection with any Loan in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
SECTION 1.02. Other Terms and Constructions.
(a) Under this Agreement, all accounting terms not specifically defined herein shall be construed in accordance with GAAP, and all accounting determinations made and all financial statements prepared hereunder shall be made and prepared in accordance with GAAP (provided that, notwithstanding any other provision contained herein, all terms of an accounting or financial nature used herein shall be construed, and all computations of amounts and ratios referred to herein shall be made, without giving effect to any election under Accounting Standard Codification 825-10-25 (previously referred to as Statement of Financial Accounting Standards 159) (or any other Accounting Standards Codification or Financial Accounting Standard having a similar result or effect) to value any Indebtedness or other liabilities of any Relevant Party at “fair value”, as defined therein).
(b) References herein to “Articles”, “Sections”, “Subsections”, “Subparagraphs”, “Subclauses” and other subdivisions without reference to a document are designated Articles, Sections, Subsections, Subparagraphs and other subdivisions of this Agreement.
(c) A reference to a Subsection, Subparagraph, Subclause or other subdivision without further reference to a Section is a reference to such Subparagraph, Subclause or other subdivision as contained in the same Section in which the reference appears.
(d) All times specified herein or in any other Loan Document (unless expressly specified otherwise) are local times in New York City, New York.
(e) All terms used in Article 9 of the UCC in the State of New York, and not specifically defined herein, are used herein as defined in such Article 9.
(f) The words “herein,” “hereof,” and “hereunder” and other words of similar import refer to this Agreement as a whole, including the exhibits and schedules hereto, as the same may from time to time be amended or supplemented in accordance with the terms hereof and not to any particular section, subsection, or clause contained in this Agreement, and all references to Sections, Exhibits and Schedules shall mean, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the Sections hereof and the Exhibits and Schedules attached hereto, the terms of which Exhibits and Schedules are hereby incorporated into this Agreement.
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(g) The captions and section numbers appearing in this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and do not define, limit, construe or describe the scope or intent of the provisions of this Agreement. Each of the definitions set forth in Section 1.01 shall be equally applicable to both the singular and plural forms of the defined terms.
(h) Unless specifically stated otherwise, all references herein to any statute, rule, regulation or any agreement, document or instrument shall, in each case, be a reference to the same as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time (but with respect to any agreement, document or instrument, only to the extent such amendment, restatement, supplement or other modification is not prohibited by the Loan Documents (as such Loan Documents may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof).
(i) The term “including” means “including without limitation”.
(j) Unless specifically stated otherwise, all references herein to any “reasonable” approval or consent of any Person, or to any Person’s approval or consent not being “unreasonably withheld”, or to other words of similar import, shall mean that such approval or consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed.
(k) The terms defined in this Agreement have the meanings assigned to them in this Agreement and include the plural as well as the singular, and the use of any gender herein shall be deemed to include the other gender.
(l) Unless otherwise indicated, when any date specified herein as the due date for a payment, notice or other deliverable is not a Business Day, such due date shall be extended to the next following Business Day.
SECTION 1.03. Computation of Time Periods. Unless otherwise stated in this Agreement, in the computation of a period of time from a specified date to a later specified date, the word “from” means “from and including” and the words “to” and “until” each means “to but excluding.”
SECTION 1.04. Divisions. For all purposes under this Agreement, in connection with any Division or plan of Division under Delaware law (or any comparable event under a different jurisdiction’s laws): (a) if any asset, right, obligation or liability of any Person becomes the asset, right, obligation or liability of a different Person, then it shall be deemed to have been transferred from the original Person to the subsequent Person, and (b) if any new Person comes into existence, such new Person shall be deemed to have been organized and acquired on the first date of its existence by the holders of its capital stock or similar equity interests at such time.
SECTION 1.05. Interest Rates. Upon the occurrence of a Benchmark Transition Event, Section 2.04 provides a mechanism for determining an alternative rate of interest. The Administrative Agent will promptly notify the Borrower Representative and the Calculation Agent, pursuant to Section 2.04, of any change to the reference rate upon which the interest rate on Loans is based. However, the Administrative Agent does not warrant or accept any responsibility for, and shall not have any liability with respect to, the administration of, or any other matter related to, SOFR, the Prime Rate or any alternative or successor rate thereto, or replacement rate thereof (including (i) any such alternative, successor or replacement rate implemented pursuant to Section 2.04, whether upon the occurrence of a Benchmark Transition Event, and (ii) the implementation of any Conforming Changes pursuant to Section 2.04, including whether the composition or characteristics of any such alternative, successor or replacement reference rate will be similar to, or produce the same value or economic equivalence of, SOFR or have the same volume or liquidity as did SOFR prior to its discontinuance or unavailability).
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SECTION 1.06. Security Procedure Agreement. Any instruction from the Administrative Agent to the Paying Agent under this Agreement directing the disbursement of funds from any Account shall be in accordance with the Security Procedure Agreement. The Administrative Agent acknowledges and agrees that the Paying Agent’s inability to receive or confirm any such instruction pursuant to the security procedure selected by the Administrative Agent as specified in the Security Procedure Agreement may result in a delay in accomplishing such funds transfer, and agrees that the Paying Agent shall not be liable for any losses, liabilities, claims, fees, expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses and court costs), costs, or damages relating to any such delay.
ARTICLE II
AMOUNTS AND TERMS OF THE LOANS
SECTION 2.01. Loans.
(a) On the terms and subject to the conditions hereof, from time to time during the period commencing on the Closing Date and ending at the close of business on the Business Day immediately preceding the last Business Day of the Initial Term, each Lender shall make Property Loans to the Borrowers in an amount, for each Lender, equal to its Lender Percentage of the amount requested by the Borrowers pursuant to Section 2.02(a)(i); provided that no Lender shall make any such Property Loan or portion thereof if any condition precedent set forth in Section 3.02 shall not have been satisfied (or waived) or if after giving effect to such Property Loan:
(i) the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the Loans funded by such Lender hereunder will exceed its Commitment;
(ii) the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance will exceed the Aggregate Commitment;
(iii) the Loan to Value Ratio with respect to all Financed Properties and all Pending Advance Properties in the aggregate will exceed 70.0%;
(iv) the Loan to Cost Ratio with respect to all Financed Properties and all Pending Advance Properties in the aggregate will exceed 75.0%;
(v) the aggregate Debt Yield with respect to all Financed Properties in the aggregate and all Pending Advance Properties in the aggregate determined as of the proposed Borrowing Date will be less than 6.5%;
(vi) the aggregate Debt Service Coverage Ratio with respect to all Financed Properties and all Pending Advance Properties in the aggregate will be less than 1.30:1.00;
(vii) the Loan to Value Ratio with respect to all Pending Advance Properties in the aggregate will exceed 70.0%;
(viii) the Loan to Cost Ratio with respect to all Pending Advance Properties in the aggregate will exceed 75.0%;
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(ix) the aggregate Debt Yield with respect to all Pending Advance Properties and the requested Property Loans determined as of the proposed Borrowing Date will be less than 6.5%; or
(x) the aggregate Debt Service Coverage Ratio with respect to all Pending Advance Properties and the requested Property Loans determined as of the proposed Borrowing Date will be less than 1.30:1.00.
(xi) Each Borrowing of Property Loans shall be in a minimum principal amount equal to $5,000,000.
(b) On the terms and subject to the conditions hereof, from time to time during the period commencing on the Closing Date and ending at the close of business on the Business Day immediately preceding the last Business Day of the Initial Term, each Lender shall make Renovation Loans to the Borrowers in an amount, for each Lender, equal to its Lender Percentage of the amount requested by the Borrowers pursuant to Section 2.02(a)(ii); provided that no Lender shall make any such Renovation Loan or portion thereof if any condition precedent set forth in Section 3.03 shall not have been satisfied (or waived) or if after giving effect to such Renovation Loan:
(i) the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the Loans funded by such Lender hereunder will exceed its Commitment;
(ii) the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance will exceed the Aggregate Commitment;
(iii) the Loan to Value Ratio with respect to all Financed Properties and all Pending Renovation Advance Properties in the aggregate will exceed 70.0%;
(iv) the Loan to Cost Ratio with respect to all Financed Properties and all Pending Renovation Advance Properties in the aggregate will exceed 75.0%;
(v) the aggregate Debt Yield with respect to all Financed Properties in the aggregate and all Pending Renovation Advance Properties in the aggregate determined as of the proposed Borrowing Date will be less than 6.5%;
(vi) the aggregate Debt Service Coverage Ratio with respect to all Financed Properties and all Pending Renovation Advance Properties in the aggregate will be less than 1.30:1.00;
(vii) the Loan to Value Ratio with respect to all Pending Renovation Advance Properties in the aggregate will exceed 70.0%
(viii) the Loan to Cost Ratio with respect to all Pending Renovation Advance Properties in the aggregate will exceed 75.0%;
(ix) the aggregate Debt Yield with respect to all Pending Renovation Advance Properties and the requested Renovation Loans determined as of the proposed Borrowing Date will be less than 6.5%; or
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(x) the aggregate Debt Service Coverage Ratio with respect to all Pending Renovation Advance Properties and the requested Renovation Loans determined as of the proposed Borrowing Date will be less than 1.30:1.00.
Each Borrowing of Renovation Loans shall be in a minimum principal amount equal to $5,000,000.
(c) Subject to the foregoing and to the limitations set forth in Section 2.06, the Borrowers may borrow, prepay and reborrow the Loans hereunder.
(d) Each Borrowing shall consist of Loans made on the same day by each of the Lenders ratably according to their respective Lender Percentages. Each Lender represents and warrants that either (i) no portion of any Loan attributable to such Lender is or shall be funded with the “plan assets” of (A) any “benefit plan investor” within the meaning of 29 C.F.R. Section 2510.3-101, as modified by Section 3(42) of ERISA or (B) any employee benefit plan or plan that is subject to any law, rule or regulation substantially similar to Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code (“Other Plan Law”); or (ii) the Loans and the transactions contemplated by the Loan Documents will not constitute or result in a non-exempt prohibited transaction under Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code or a violation of any applicable Other Plan Law.
(e) The Calculation Agent shall maintain a record or records evidencing the indebtedness of the Borrowers to the Lenders resulting from each Loan made by the Lenders from time to time, including the outstanding principal balance of such Loans and the amount of Interest payable and paid to such Lender from time to time hereunder, which shall be based solely on the information provided to the Calculation Agent. The entries made in such records of the Calculation Agent shall be prima facie evidence of the existence and amounts of the obligations recorded therein absent manifest error; provided, however, that the failure of the Calculation Agent to maintain such records or any error therein shall not in any manner affect the obligation of the Borrowers to repay the Loans in accordance with the terms of this Agreement; provided, further, that in the event of any inconsistency between such records and the Register, the Register shall control.
(f) On the last Business Day of the Initial Term, the Commitments of the Lenders will terminate automatically without any action required on the part of any Person. The Aggregate Loan Principal Balance, together with all other Obligations, shall mature and be due and payable in full in cash on the Maturity Date.
(g) Any Lender may request that Loans made by it be evidenced by a promissory note. In such event, the Borrowers shall prepare, execute and deliver to such Lender one or more promissory notes in any denominations specified by such Lender (in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed the Commitment owing such Lender) payable to the order of such Lender (or, if requested by such Lender, to such Lender and its registered and permitted assigns) substantially in the form of Exhibit G (a “Note”). In no event shall either the Paying Agent or the Calculation Agent have any obligation to maintain a register of holders of any such promissory notes, or to register or otherwise monitor transfers thereof.
SECTION 2.02. Borrowing Procedures.
(a) Borrowing Requests.
(i) The Borrower Representative may request a Borrowing of Property Loans hereunder with respect to Properties that are Pending Advance Properties by submitting to the Administrative Agent, the Calculation Agent and the Diligence Agent a written notice (together with the notice referred to in Section 2.02(a)(ii) below, each an “Initial Borrowing Request”) substantially in the form of Exhibit H-1; provided, that the aggregate number of Initial Borrowing Requests (on an aggregate basis including Borrowing Requests in respect of Property Loans and Renovation Loans) shall not be more than one (1) during any calendar week. Upon receipt of an Initial Borrowing Request, the Administrative Agent shall request confirmation from the Diligence Agent of the items set forth in Section 2.02(a)(iv) in respect of each applicable Pending Advance Property, and further request such confirmation be provided by the Diligence Agent within three (3) Business Days of receipt of an Initial Borrowing Request.
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(ii) The Borrower Representative may request a Borrowing of Renovation Loans hereunder with respect to the completed Scheduled Renovation Work for Converted Properties that are Stabilized Properties by submitting to the Administrative Agent, the Calculation Agent and the Diligence Agent a Borrowing Request substantially in the form of Exhibit H-2; provided, that (x) the aggregate number of Initial Borrowing Requests (on an aggregate basis including Borrowing Requests in respect of Property Loans and Renovation Loans) shall not be more than one (1) during any calendar week, (y) a Renovation Loan in respect of any Property may only be made once; and (z) the Borrowing Date in respect of any Renovation Loans and a Reserve Release Date shall occur on the same day in any calendar month. Upon receipt of an Initial Borrowing Request, the Administrative Agent shall request confirmation from the Diligence Agent of the items set forth in Section 2.02(a)(v) in respect of each applicable Pending Renovation Advance Property, and further request such confirmation be provided by the Diligence Agent within three (3) Business Days of receipt of an Initial Borrowing Request.
(iii) The Calculation Agent shall deliver to the Administrative Agent (or, if the Calculation Agent and the Administrative Agent are the same Person, shall be deemed to have delivered), within two (2) Business Days of receipt of an Initial Borrowing Request, a Preliminary Report setting forth the results of any applicable calculations required in connection with such Initial Borrowing Request. If no calculation exceptions are identified in such Preliminary Report, and no modifications of such Initial Borrowing Request are requested by (x) the Diligence Agent to reflect the results of its diligence review or (y) the Administrative Agent or the Calculation Agent, such Initial Borrowing Request shall constitute a Final Borrowing Request and such Preliminary Report shall constitute a Final Report. If exceptions are identified in such Preliminary Report, or modifications are requested by the Diligence Agent, the Administrative Agent or the Calculation Agent because the initial Borrowing Request is incomplete or contains miscalculations or other errors, the Borrower Representative shall submit a Modified Borrowing Request reflecting such requested modifications and the corrections of such exceptions to the Administrative Agent, the Calculation Agent, and the Diligence Agent, and the Calculation Agent shall generate a Modified Report based on such Modified Borrowing Request. If no calculation exceptions are identified in such Modified Report and no incompletions, miscalculations or other errors are identified in the Modified Borrowing Request, such Modified Borrowing Request shall constitute a Final Borrowing Request and such Modified Report shall constitute a Final Report. To the extent exceptions are identified in such Modified Report, the foregoing process shall be repeated until a Final Report is obtained. The Calculation Agent shall provide the Final Report relating to a Final Borrowing Request to the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative on the same Business Day such Final Report is generated; provided, if such Final Report is generated after 5:00 p.m. New York time on such Business Day, the Calculation Agent shall not be obligated to provide such Final Report to the Administrative Agent or the Borrower Representative until the next Business Day. Promptly after its receipt of a Final Borrowing Request and by no later than three (3) Business Days prior to the proposed Borrowing Date, the Administrative Agent shall deliver the Final Borrowing Request to each Lender, together with the Diligence Agent Certification and the Final Report described above. By no later than 4:00 p.m. (New York City time) one (1) Business Day prior to the proposed Borrowing Date, the Administrative Agent shall provide written instructions for the disbursement of funds to the Paying Agent.
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(iv) Upon receipt of an Initial Borrowing Request for Property Loans, the Administrative Agent shall request that the Diligence Agent confirm that (A) the Property File in respect of each Pending Advance Property that is subject to the related Borrowing Request has been reviewed and that there is no Deficiency with respect to such Property File, (B) the due diligence review in respect of each such Pending Advance Property that is subject of the related Borrowing Request has been completed, including confirmation by the Diligence Agent that it has reviewed the documentation required to be included in the Property File for each Pending Advance Property that is specified in items 3 through 5 of Schedule I and determined that the Eligible Property criteria set forth in items 1 and 2 of Schedule I have been satisfied with respect to each such Pending Advance Property, (C) Broker Price Opinions and inspections for each of the Pending Advance Properties that are the subject of the related Borrowing Request have been ordered and satisfactorily completed, all at the Borrowers’ expense and (D) the BPO Values and Scheduled Renovation Work, if applicable, with respect to each Pending Advance Property that is subject to the related Borrowing Request have been determined. The Administrative Agent shall instruct the Diligence Agent to provide copies of each Broker Price Opinion to the Borrower Representative.
(v) Upon receipt of an Initial Borrowing Request for Renovation Loans, the Administrative Agent shall request that the Diligence Agent confirm that (A) the Property File in respect of each Pending Renovation Advance Property that is subject to the related Borrowing Request has been reviewed and that there is no Deficiency with respect to such Property File, (B) the Completion Requirements in respect of each such Pending Renovation Advance Property are satisfied, (C) the due diligence review in respect of each such Pending Renovation Advance Property that is subject of the related Borrowing Request has been completed (it being understood and agreed that such due diligence review will be limited to matters necessary to determine whether such Pending Renovation Advance Property has satisfied the conditions set forth in clauses (a) and (b) of the definition of Stabilized Property), and (D) inspections for each of the Pending Renovation Advance Properties that are the subject of the related Borrowing Request, to the extent required under Section 3.03(g), have been ordered and satisfactorily completed, all at the Borrowers’ expense.
(vi) It is understood and agreed that any modifications to any Initial Borrowing Request based on the findings of the Administrative Agent, the Calculation Agent or the Diligence Agent (including any modifications resulting from the BPO Reconciliation Process) following the review process set forth in this Section 2.02(a) may cause delays with respect to the occurrence of a proposed Borrowing Date and neither the Administrative Agent, the Calculation Agent nor the Diligence Agent shall have any liability relating in any way to such delay.
(b) Lender’s Commitment. The obligations of any Lender to make Loans hereunder are several from the obligations of any other Lenders. The failure of any Lender to make Loans hereunder shall not release the obligations of any other Lender to make Loans hereunder, but no Lender shall be responsible for the failure of any other Lender to make any Loan hereunder.
(c) Disbursement of Funds. On each Borrowing Date, subject to the satisfaction of the applicable conditions precedent specified in this Agreement, each Lender shall remit its share of the aggregate amount of the Loans requested by the Borrowers to the Disbursement Account (or any other account designated in writing by the Administrative Agent to such Lender) by 2:00 p.m. (New York City time) by wire transfer of same day funds. Upon receipt of such funds, the Paying Agent, in accordance with the written instruction of the Administrative Agent (which may be in electronic form) received no later than 4:00 p.m. (New York City time) one (1) Business Day prior to such Borrowing Date, shall remit such funds by wire transfer of same day funds (i) to the Administrative Agent in the amount of any unpaid fees, costs or expenses of the Administrative Agent that are then due and payable, (ii) to the Diligence Agent, in the amount of any unpaid fees, costs or expenses of the Diligence Agent that are then due and payable, (iii) to the Reserve Accounts in the amount of the Upfront Reserves with respect to the Pending Advance Properties and (iv) the balance of such funds to the accounts specified in such related Borrowing Request by 4:00 p.m. (New York City time) on the applicable Borrowing Date, to the extent it has received such funds from the Lenders no later than 2:00 p.m. (New York City time) on the applicable Borrowing Date. Funds received by the Paying Agent from any Lender after 2:00 p.m. (New York City time) on any Business Day may, at the discretion of the Paying Agent, be deemed to have been received on the next Business Day.
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SECTION 2.03. [Reserved]
SECTION 2.04. Alternate Rate of Interest.
(a) Term SOFR Conforming Changes. In connection with the use or administration Term SOFR, the Administrative Agent shall have the right to make Conforming Changes from time to time and, notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein or in any other Loan Document, any amendments implementing such Conforming Changes will become effective without any further action or consent of Borrower. The Administrative Agent will promptly notify Borrowers and the Calculation Agent of the effectiveness of any such Conforming Changes in connection with the use or administration of Term SOFR.
(b) Alternate Rate Transition Event. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Section 2.04, each Loan shall be a Term SOFR Loan and bear interest at the Term SOFR Rate. In the event that the Administrative Agent shall have determined in its sole and absolute discretion (which determination shall be conclusive and binding upon Borrowers and each other party hereto absent manifest error) that one or more Benchmark Transition Events shall have occurred, the Administrative Agent shall determine the corresponding Benchmark Replacement Date in accordance with the definition thereof, and the Administrative Agent shall, at any time after the Benchmark Replacement Date, have the sole and exclusive right at its election, to be exercised in its sole but good faith discretion, to convert the Loans from Term SOFR Loans to Alternate Rate Loans based on the applicable Benchmark Replacement selected by the Administrative Agent as provided in the definition thereof, or if the Loans had previously been converted to Alternate Rate Loans based upon a Benchmark Replacement, to Alternate Rate Loans based on the applicable alternative Benchmark Replacement selected by the Administrative Agent as provided in the definition thereof, provided in each case that such conversion shall be subject to satisfaction of the following conditions: (A) at the time of conversion, such applicable Benchmark Replacement is a floating rate index that is then commonly used by the Administrative Agent in its floating rate single family rental real estate loans originated and held on its balance sheet as an alternative to the then-current Benchmark, as determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole but good faith discretion, and (B) such applicable Benchmark Replacement is administratively and commercially reasonable for the Administrative Agent, each Lender to implement, as determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole but good faith discretion. In the event the foregoing conditions shall be satisfied and the Loans are converted to Alternate Rate Loans as provided above, the Loans shall bear interest at the applicable Alternate Rate effective as of the first day on which the Loans are converted to the applicable Alternate Rate Loan. The Administrative Agent will promptly notify in writing the Borrowers and the Calculation Agent of the conversion of the Loans to the applicable Alternate Rate Loan. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, in no event shall any Borrower have the right to convert (x) any Term SOFR Loan to an Alternate Rate Loan or (y) any Alternate Rate Loan accruing interest at a rate based upon the then-current Benchmark Replacement to an alternative Alternate Rate Loan accruing interest at a rate based upon any alternative Benchmark Replacement.
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(c) Conversion to Prime Rate Loans. In the event that the Administrative Agent shall have determined in its sole and absolute discretion (which determination shall be conclusive and binding upon Borrowers and each other party hereto absent manifest error) that Term SOFR cannot be ascertained as provided in the definition of Term SOFR as set forth herein, or that the adoption of any requirement of law or any change therein or in the interpretation or application thereof, shall make it unlawful for any Lender to maintain Term SOFR Loans as contemplated hereunder, or Term SOFR would be in excess of the maximum interest rate that Borrowers may by law pay, and the Loans have not previously been converted to Alternate Rate Loans in accordance with Section 2.04(b) above, the Administrative Agent may, in its sole and absolute discretion elect to give notice thereof to the Borrowers (which may be by telephone or e-mail, followed promptly by written notice) and the Calculation Agent. If such notice is given, the Term SOFR Loans shall be converted, as of the first day of the next succeeding Settlement Period, or upon such earlier date as may be required by law, at the Administrative Agent’s option (in the Administrative Agent’s sole and absolute discretion), to Prime Rate Loans bearing interest at the Prime Rate. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, in no event shall Borrowers have the right to convert any Term SOFR Loan to a Prime Rate Loan or an Alternate Rate Loan.
(d) Reversion from Prime Rate to Term SOFR. If, pursuant to Section 2.04(c), the Loans have been converted to Prime Rate Loans and the Administrative Agent shall determine (which determination shall be conclusive and binding upon the Borrowers and each other party hereto absent manifest error) that the event(s) or circumstance(s) which resulted in such conversion shall no longer be applicable and Term SOFR can be determined as provided in the definition of Term SOFR as set forth herein, the Administrative Agent shall give notice thereof to Borrowers (which may be by telephone or e-mail, followed promptly by written notice) and the Calculation Agent prior to the next succeeding Interest Determination Date. Upon the giving of such notice, the Loans shall be converted, as of the first day of the next succeeding Settlement Period, to Term SOFR Loans. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, in no event shall Borrowers have the right to convert any Prime Rate Loan to a Term SOFR Loan or any Term SOFR Loan to a Prime Rate Loan.
(e) Unavailability of Alternate Index Rate. If, pursuant to the terms of Section 2.04(b), the Loans have been converted to Alternate Rate Loans but thereafter the Administrative Agent shall determine (which determination shall be conclusive and binding upon Borrowers and each other party hereto absent manifest error) that the applicable Alternate Index Rate cannot be ascertained, or that the adoption of any requirement of law or any change therein or in the interpretation or application thereof, shall hereafter make it unlawful for any Lender to maintain Alternate Rate Loans as contemplated hereunder, or the applicable Alternate Rate would be in excess of the maximum interest rate that Borrowers may by law pay, the Administrative Agent may, in its sole and absolute discretion, elect to give notice thereof to Borrowers (which may be by telephone or e-mail, followed promptly by written notice) and the Calculation Agent prior to the next succeeding Interest Determination Date. If such notice is given, the Alternate Rate Loans shall be converted, as of the first day of the next succeeding Settlement Period, or upon such earlier date as may be required by law, to Prime Rate Loans bearing interest at the Prime Rate.
(f) Conversion from Prime Rate to Alternate Rate. If, pursuant to the terms of this Section 2.04, the Loans have been converted to Prime Rate Loans and thereafter the Administrative Agent has determined in its sole but good faith discretion that Term SOFR has been succeeded by a Benchmark Replacement and such Benchmark Replacement can be determined, then the Administrative Agent shall have the sole and exclusive right, to be exercised in its sole but good faith discretion, to convert the Loans from Prime Rate Loans to Alternate Rate Loans in accordance with, and subject to satisfaction of the conditions set forth in, the provisions of Section 2.04(b) above, and the Administrative Agent shall give notice thereof to Borrowers (which may be by telephone or e-mail, followed promptly by written notice) and the Calculation Agent prior to the next succeeding Interest Determination Date, and if such notice is given, the Loans shall be converted, as of the first day of the next succeeding Settlement Period, to Alternate Rate Loans. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, in no event shall Borrowers have the right to elect to convert any Alternate Rate Loan to a Prime Rate Loan or any Prime Rate Loan to an Alternate Rate Loan
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(g) Costs of Conversion. Borrowers hereby agree to promptly pay to each Lender, upon demand, any additional amounts necessary to compensate each Lender for any costs incurred by each Lender in making any conversion in accordance with this Agreement, including without limitation, any interest or fees payable by each Lender to lenders of funds obtained by it in order to make or maintain the Term SOFR Loans (or Alternate Rate Loans) hereunder. Each Lender’s notice of such costs, as certified to Borrowers, shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
(h) Benchmark Replacement Conforming Changes. In connection with the use, administration, adoption or implementation of a Benchmark Replacement, the Administrative Agent shall have the right to make Conforming Changes from time to time and, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein or in any other Loan Document, any amendments implementing such Conforming Changes will become effective without any further action or consent of Borrowers or any other party to this Agreement. The Administrative Agent will promptly notify Borrowers and the Calculation Agent of the effectiveness of any such Conforming Changes.
(i) Binding Effect. Any determination, decision or election that may be made by the Administrative Agent pursuant to this Section 2.04 or Section 5.03, including, but not limited to, any determination with respect to a tenor, rate or adjustment or of the occurrence or non-occurrence of an event, circumstance or date, the necessity and amount of any spread adjustment, any Conforming Changes, any replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement, and any decision to take or refrain from taking any action or any selection, will be conclusive and binding absent manifest error and may be made in its sole discretion and without consent from Borrowers.
(j) No Obligation of Calculation Agent or Paying Agent. In no event shall the Calculation Agent or the Paying Agent have any obligation or liability with respect to (i) monitoring, determining or verifying the unavailability or cessation of Term SOFR (or other applicable Benchmark Replacement) or the occurrence of any Benchmark Transition Event or Benchmark Replacement Date, (ii) selecting, determining or designating any Benchmark Replacement or Alternate Index Rate, or determining whether any conditions to the designation of any Benchmark Transition Event or Benchmark Replacement Date have been satisfied, (iii) selecting, determining or designating any Benchmark Replacement Adjustment with respect to any Benchmark Replacement, or (iv) determining whether or what Conforming Changes are necessary in connection with any of the foregoing (except to the extent the Calculation Agent may object to any such Conforming Changes on the basis that such Conforming Changes are not operationally feasible for the Calculation Agent).
SECTION 2.05. Interest; Fees. Interest. Interest shall accrue on the Loans funded by each Lender at the applicable Interest Rate; provided, that following the occurrence and during the continuation of an Event of Default, the outstanding Obligations shall accrue interest at the Default Rate. Each determination by the Administrative Agent of the Interest Rate shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes, absent manifest error. To the extent permitted by applicable law, interest at the Default Rate which remains unpaid on any Monthly Payment Date shall be added to the outstanding Obligations and shall itself accrue interest at the Interest Rate. On each Monthly Payment Date and on the Maturity Date, the Borrowers shall pay to each Lender all accrued and unpaid Interest with respect to the Loans for the preceding Settlement Period pursuant to Section 2.07 of this Agreement. All payments of Interest shall be made out of Collections or such other funds available to the Borrowers.
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(b) Unused Fee. The Borrowers agree to pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Lenders an unused fee of three-eighths of one percent (0.375%) per annum on the daily average unused portion of the Aggregate Commitment during each Settlement Period; provided, that if at any time on or after the date immediately succeeding the six-month anniversary of the Closing Date the daily average unused portion of the Aggregate Commitment during such period is greater than fifty percent (50%) of the Aggregate Commitment, the Borrowers shall pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Lenders an unused fee of five-eighths of one percent (0.625%) per annum on the daily average unused portion of the Aggregate Commitment during such period. Accrued unused fees in respect of each Settlement Period shall be payable on each Monthly Payment Date and on the Maturity Date (such fees, the “Unused Fee”).
(c) Minimum Yield Fee. Upon the earlier to occur of (i) the Maturity Date (as may be extended pursuant to Section 2.08) or (ii) a termination of Commitments, the Borrowers agree to pay to each Lender an additional fee, if any, equal to the positive amount (if any) by which (A) the result of (1) the highest amount of the Aggregate Commitment while this Agreement is outstanding multiplied by Term SOFR, assuming that Term SOFR is equal to 0.25% multiplied by (2) nine (9), exceeds (B) the total amount of interest and fees paid under this Agreement and the Fee Letter (such fees, the “Minimum Yield Fee”). The payment of any Minimum Yield Fee shall be due no earlier than five (5) Business Days after the Borrower Representative’s receipt of written notice thereof from the Administrative Agent, which written notice shall include a calculation of the Minimum Yield Fee.
(d) Additional Fees. The Borrowers agree to pay the additional fees described in the Fee Letter.
SECTION 2.06. Principal Payments.
(a) Optional Prepayments. The Borrowers may, at their option, prepay on any Business Day all or any portion of any Loan upon prior written notice delivered to the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent (with a copy to each Lender) not later than 12:00 p.m. (New York City time) two (2) Business Days prior to the date of such payment. Each such notice shall specify (i) the aggregate amount of the prepayment to be made on the Loans and (ii) the Business Day on which the Borrowers will make such prepayment. Each such prepayment shall be in a minimum principal amount equal to $1,000,000 and shall be applied in accordance with Section 2.06(c). Each such prepayment of the Loans to the Lenders must be accompanied by a payment of all accrued and unpaid Interest through, but not including, the date of repayment on the amount prepaid and any other amounts (including amounts payable under Section 2.05 and Section 2.12) due from the Borrowers hereunder in respect of such prepayment.
(b) Mandatory Prepayments.
(i) Loan to Value Deficiency. If as of any date of determination, the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance with respect to Stabilized Properties exceeds 72.5% of the BPO Value of the Stabilized Properties as of such date or the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance with respect to Non-Stabilized Properties exceeds 72.5% of the BPO Value of the Non-Stabilized Properties as of such date, then the Borrowers shall prepay the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance in part or in whole, such that after giving effect to such prepayment the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance is equal to or less than such sum, and such prepayment shall be made (subject to clause (x) below) by the Borrowers no later than the third (3rd) Business Day following such date of determination.
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(ii) Debt Yield Deficiency. If as of any Quarterly Determination Date, the aggregate Debt Yield, after giving effect to any prepayment required by clause (i) of this Section 2.06(b), of all Financed Properties calculated as of such date is less than 6.25%, then the Borrowers shall prepay the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance in part or in whole, such that after giving effect to such prepayment the aggregate Debt Yield of all Financed Properties as of such Quarterly Determination Date is at least 6.25%, and such prepayment shall be made (subject to clause (x) below) by the Borrowers no later than the third (3rd) Business Day following such Quarterly Determination Date.
(iii) DSCR Deficiency. If as of any Quarterly Determination Date, after giving effect to any prepayment required by clauses (i) and (ii) of this Section 2.06(b), the aggregate Debt Service Coverage Ratio of all Financed Properties calculated as of such date is less than 1.25:1.00, then the Borrowers shall prepay the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance in part or in whole, such that after giving effect to such prepayment the aggregate Debt Service Coverage Ratio of all Financed Properties as of such Quarterly Determination Date is at least 1.25:1.00, and such prepayment shall be made (subject to clause (x) below) by the Borrowers no later than the third (3rd) Business Day following such date of determination.
(iv) [Reserved].
(v) Non-Eligible Properties. If at any time any Financed Property no longer qualifies as an Eligible Property and such failure is not cured within the applicable Cure Period (if any), the Borrowers shall, no later than the close of business on the second (2nd) Business Day following the last day of the applicable Cure Period, give written notice thereof to the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent and either (1) pay the applicable Release Amount to the Debt Service Account with respect to such Financed Property or (2) except to the extent such Financed Property no longer qualifies as an Eligible Property due to the occurrence of a Prohibited Action, deposit an amount equal to 100% of the Allocated Loan Amount for such Financed Property in the Debt Service Account.
(vi) Refinancing; Transfer. If at any time (x) a Borrower Refinances any Financed Property or (y) any Financed Property is Transferred to a third party, then, in either case, the Borrowers shall, no later than the close of business on the day on which the proceeds are disbursed, give written notice thereof to the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent and pay the applicable Release Amount to the Debt Service Account with respect to such Financed Property; provided that, with respect to any transfer to any TRS Borrower in accordance with this Agreement, a Release Amount shall not be payable under this clause (vi) until a Refinancing or further Transfer by such TRS Borrower occurs.
(vii) Interest and Fees on Amounts Prepaid. Concurrently with each prepayment under this Section 2.06, the Borrowers shall pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Lenders all accrued but unpaid Interest on the principal amount prepaid through, but not including, the date of prepayment and any Fees payable with respect to such prepayment.
(viii) Payment from Collection Account. If requested by the Borrower Representative or if the Borrowers do not otherwise make a payment required by Section 2.06 in accordance with Section 2.06 and Section 2.09, the Administrative Agent shall, by written notice to the Borrower Representative, collect any prepayment required under this Section 2.06 by causing (upon written instruction to) the Paying Agent to pay such amount to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Lenders from the Collection Account on the date such prepayment is payable hereunder.
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(ix) Mandatory Prepayment of Aggregate Loan Principal Balance. If (A) as of any date of determination, the aggregate Allocated Loan Amount of all Financed Properties shall be less than fifteen percent (15%) of the Aggregate Commitment or (B) as of any date of determination falling after October 6, 2022, there are Financed Properties and Pending Advance Properties located on four (4) or fewer Projects, then the Borrowers shall immediately prepay the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance in whole.
(x) Capital Call to Satisfy Prepayment. To the extent that funds to make any prepayment required by Section 2.05(b)(i), (ii), (iii) and (v) are not readily available to Borrower, or to any Sponsor and cannot be immediately contributed by such Sponsor to Borrowers for such purpose and it is necessary for any Sponsor to issue one or more capital calls in order to contribute to Borrowers the necessary funds for such purpose, such prepayment shall be remitted to the Paying Agent within ten (10) Business Days following the date of such capital calls (provided that, if this clause (y) is applicable, the Borrowers shall (1) notify the Administrative Agent and Lenders that a capital call will be required within two (2) Business Days following the date of determination, (2) cause such Sponsor to issue capital calls, within two (2) Business Days following the date of determination, in an amount equal to or greater than the amount required to make such prepayment, (3) deliver to the Administrative Agent and Lenders copies of the notices of such capital calls simultaneously with the delivery of such notices by such Sponsor to its investors, and (4) make the required prepayment promptly after the related capital contributions are received by such Sponsor).
(c) Application of Prepayments. All prepayments under clauses (a) and (b) (i) – (iv) above shall reduce the Allocated Loan Amounts for each Financed Property on a pro rata basis and shall be applied ratably among the Lenders based on their respective Lender Percentages. Prepayments under clauses (b) (v) and (vi) above shall reduce the Allocated Loan Amount with respect to the applicable Financed Property, ratably among the Lenders based on their respective Lender Percentages, until the Allocated Loan Amount and any interest, Fees or other Obligations related thereto is zero and any excess shall be applied to reduce the Allocated Loan Amounts for the remaining Financed Properties on a pro rata basis and ratably among the Lenders based on their respective Lender Percentages.
SECTION 2.07. Application of Collections.
(a) The Paying Agent will apply funds on deposit in the Collection Account in accordance with the related Monthly Payment Report as described in this Section 2.07 or on any Refinancing or Transfer Date as required by Section 2.16(a)(iv). No funds shall be transferred from the Collection Account except in accordance with this Section 2.07 or as otherwise required or permitted under this Agreement.
(b) Not less than five (5) Business Days prior to each Monthly Payment Date, the Borrowers shall cause the Borrower Representative to prepare and deliver to the Calculation Agent and the Administrative Agent a Monthly Borrower Report. Upon receipt of such Monthly Borrower Report, the Calculation Agent shall review the substance thereof and verify any applicable calculations contained therein as required under this Agreement and shall prepare and deliver a Monthly Payment Report to the Administrative Agent (with a copy to the Borrower Representative and the Lenders (subject to Section 10.22)) two (2) Business Days prior to the related Monthly Payment Date. Upon the Administrative Agent’s written approval of each such Monthly Payment Report, the Administrative Agent will forward each such Monthly Payment Report to the Paying Agent (with a copy to the Borrower Representative and the Lenders (subject to Section 10.22)) no later than 4:00 p.m. (New York City time) one (1) Business Day prior to the related Monthly Payment Date and instruct the Paying Agent in writing to transfer the funds in the Collection Account in accordance with such Monthly Payment Report in the manner set forth in Section 2.07(c).
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(c) On each Monthly Payment Date, as applicable, the Paying Agent shall, based solely on the information set forth in the related Monthly Payment Report (as supplemented by information provided in writing by the Administrative Agent to the extent required to calculate payments due and payable pursuant to clause (vi) below), apply all Available Funds no later than 2:00 p.m. (New York City time) on such day in the following order and priority:
(i) first, to the Administrative Agent, any Administrative Fee then due and payable and any costs, expenses or indemnities then due and payable (such amounts to be transferred to the Debt Service Account and applied as aforesaid);
(ii) second, to the Calculation Agent, the Calculation Agent Fee then due and payable, to the Paying Agent, the Paying Agent Fee then due and payable, and any fees, costs, expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses), indemnities and any other amounts then due and payable to the Paying Agent (including in its capacity as the Securities Intermediary) and the Calculation Agent (such amounts to be transferred to the Debt Service Account and applied as aforesaid);
(iii) third, to the Diligence Agent, any Fees, costs, expenses or indemnities then due and payable (such amounts to be transferred to the Debt Service Account and applied as aforesaid);
(iv) fourth, to each Lender, pro rata, the unpaid Interest and Fees due to such Lender for the related Settlement Period and any accrued Interest and Fees with respect to any prior Settlement Period to the extent not paid on a prior Monthly Payment Date (such amounts to be transferred to the Debt Service Account and applied as aforesaid);
(v) fifth, to each Lender, pro rata, the amount of any unpaid mandatory prepayment of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance (other than any mandatory prepayment pursuant to Sections 2.06(b)(v) or (vi)) then due and payable (in the case of any mandatory prepayment required under Section 2.06(b)(vi), such amounts to be transferred to the Debt Service Account and applied as aforesaid in accordance with Section 2.16(a)(iv));
(vi) sixth, pro rata to each Lender, any other Fees, costs, expenses or indemnities then due or payable by Borrowers under this Agreement or any other Loan Document (such amounts to be transferred to the Debt Service Account and applied as aforesaid);
(vii) seventh, pro rata to each Reserve Account, any amount necessary to satisfy any requirement to deposit Reserves (other than the Special Debt Service Reserves Amount) set forth herein as of such Monthly Payment Date; and
(viii) eighth, either:
(A) if as of a Monthly Payment Date a Cash Management Trigger Condition exists and is continuing, then on such Monthly Payment Date, the Paying Agent shall, based on the information set forth in the related Monthly Payment Report, apply all remaining Available Funds on such day in the following order and priority:
| (1) | first, to an Operating Account, funds in an amount determined by Administrative Agent in its sole discretion, to be disbursed in a manner reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent for the payment of operating expenses related to the Financed Properties; |
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| (2) | second, pro rata to each Lender, until the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance and all other outstanding Obligations have been paid in full; and |
| (3) | third, any remaining amounts to an Operating Account, as directed in writing by the Borrower Representative; or |
(B) if as of a Monthly Payment Date, no Cash Management Trigger Condition exists:
| (1) | first, to each Lender, pro rata, the amount of any unpaid mandatory prepayment of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance pursuant to Sections 2.06(b)(v) or (vi) then due and payable (in the case of any mandatory prepayment required under Section 2.06(b)(vi), such amounts to be transferred to the Debt Service Account and applied as aforesaid in accordance with Section 2.16(a)(iv)); and |
| (2) | second, any remaining amounts to an Operating Account, as directed by the Borrower Representative. |
(d) Subject to Section 2.18, funds on deposit in the Collection Account and Reserve Accounts from time to time may be invested in Permitted Investments. Each such Permitted Investment shall mature not later than the Business Day preceding the next Monthly Payment Date (or, with respect to any Permitted Investment managed by the Administrative Agent or an Affiliate, on such Monthly Payment Date) and shall be held to maturity. Each investment instruction by the Borrower Representative, which may be a standing instruction, shall designate specific types of Permitted Investments (and the terms thereof) and shall certify that such investments constitute Permitted Investments that will mature at the time specified in the preceding sentence. Absent the written instruction of the Borrower Representative, the funds on deposit in the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and the Reserve Accounts shall remain uninvested, except as otherwise provided pursuant to Section 6.11(b). Earnings on any such Permitted Investment shall be retained in the Collection Account and shall constitute Collections and be applied in accordance with Section 2.07(c). None of the Administrative Agent or the Paying Agent shall be liable for any loss incurred in connection with an investment in the Collection Account. The Collection Account and each Reserve Account shall be owned by each Borrower in proportion to its interest in funds on deposit therein. Each Borrower shall deliver to the U.S. Withholding Agent, on or before the Closing Date, and at such other times as the U.S. Withholding Agent may reasonably request, a properly completed and executed IRS Form W-9 or appropriate IRS Form W-8, as applicable, and, to the extent such Borrower is legally entitled to do so, such other properly completed and executed forms, certifications, and documentation as is required by law or regulation to permit such payments to be made without withholding or at a reduced rate of withholding. In the event any such IRS form, certification or other documentation expires or becomes obsolete or inaccurate in any respect, such Borrower shall promptly update and provide such form, certificate or other documentation to the U.S. Withholding Agent or promptly notify the U.S. Withholding Agent in writing of its legal inability to do so. Computershare, both in its individual capacity and in its capacity as U.S. Withholding Agent, shall have no liability to any Borrower or any other Person in connection with any tax withholding amounts paid or withheld from the Collection Account or any Reserve Account pursuant to applicable law arising from the failure of such Borrower to timely provide an accurate, correct and complete IRS Form W-9, an appropriate IRS Form W-8 or such other documentation contemplated under this paragraph.
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(e) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement or in any other Loan Document, Borrowers’ obligations with respect to the payment of any of the amounts specified in clause (c) above on any Monthly Payment Date shall be deemed satisfied (and interest shall not accrue at the Default Rate and no late payment charge shall be payable, nor shall any Default or Event of Default be deemed to have occurred, with respect thereto) to the extent sufficient amounts are available in the Collection Account as of the last day of the Settlement Period ended immediately prior to such Monthly Payment Date to satisfy such obligations, regardless of whether any of such amounts are so applied by Paying Agent.
(f) For the avoidance of doubt, all amounts in the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account, the Reserve Accounts, the Rent Collection Account, the Security Deposit Account and each Operating Account will be released at the written direction of the Borrower Representative on the Final Collection Date.
SECTION 2.08. Extension of Maturity Date(a) . The Borrower Representative may, by delivering written notice to the Administrative Agent, the Paying Agent, the Calculation Agent and the Lenders (an “Extension Request”) no later than fifteen (15) days prior to the then existing Maturity Date request the Lenders to extend the Maturity Date for a period ending (a) April 6, 2025 (the “First Extension Term”) and (b) April 6, 2026 (the “Second Extension Term” and, together with the First Extension Term, each, an “Extension Term”). Any extension of the Maturity Date shall be subject to the following conditions: (i) no Specified Default (as defined below) or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing before and immediately after giving effect to such extension; provided, however, that an Extension Request may be delivered during the existence of a Specified Default so long as no Specified Default or Event of Default shall be continuing from and after the date that is five (5) days prior to the then existing Maturity Date, (ii) the Borrowers shall obtain a Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement for the applicable Extension Term, (iii) the Borrowers shall have paid any applicable mortgage taxes required to maintain the enforceability and validity of any Mortgage that has been provided and recorded pursuant to this Agreement, (iv) none of the conditions set forth in Section 2.01(a)(iii)-(vi) would be violated as of the last day of the then existing Maturity Date if a Loan for $1 was made on such date, and (v) the Borrowers shall have paid to the Administrative Agent for distribution to each Lender an extension fee in an amount equal to the product of (x) 0.25% and (y) each Lender’s Lender Percentage of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance as of the last day of the Initial Term or the First Extension Term, as applicable (the “Extension Fees”). For purposes of this Section 2.08, “Specified Default” means (1) any Default occurring as a result of any failure to pay any amount (including any Interest, Fees or principal) due and payable by any Relevant Party under this Agreement or any other Loan Document when the same becomes due and payable or (2) any other Default determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion to be material (it being understood that any Default arising from a failure on the part of any Relevant Party to duly observe or perform any covenant or agreement set forth in this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, or any failure of any representation, warranty or statement by or on behalf of any Relevant Party in this Agreement or the other Loan Documents to be true and correct, that is qualified as to materiality or “Material Adverse Effect”, shall in each case be deemed by the Administrative Agent to be material).
SECTION 2.09. Payments and Computations, Etc. All amounts to be paid or deposited by the Borrowers hereunder shall be paid or deposited in accordance with the terms hereof no later than 2:00 p.m. (New York City time) on the day when due in lawful money of the United States in immediately available funds to the Debt Service Account or such account as the Administrative Agent or the relevant Lenders may designate prior to such payment from time to time in writing. The Borrowers shall, to the extent permitted by law, pay to the applicable Lender interest on all amounts not paid or deposited or debited by the Borrowers when due hereunder (subject to any applicable notice and cure periods) at the Default Rate from time to time in effect, payable on demand. All computations of Interest and Fees hereunder shall be made by the Calculation Agent on the basis of a year of 360 days for the actual number of days (including the first but excluding the last day) elapsed; provided, that all computations of Interest calculated based on the Prime Index Rate shall be made by the Calculation Agent on the basis of a year of 365 days for the actual number of days (including the first but excluding the last day) elapsed. In no event shall any provision of this Agreement require the payment or permit the collection of Interest in excess of the Maximum Legal Rate. In the event that any payment hereunder (whether constituting a repayment of Loans or a payment of Interest or any other amount) is rescinded or must otherwise be returned for any reason, the amount of such payment shall be restored and such payment shall be considered not to have been made.
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SECTION 2.10. Interest Protection.
(a) If due to either: (i) the introduction of any Change in Law or any change (including any change by way of imposition or increase of reserve requirements) in or in the interpretation by any Governmental Authority of any law or regulation after the date hereof or (ii) the compliance by any Affected Party with any directive or request from any central bank or other Governmental Authority (whether or not having the force of law) imposed after the date hereof, (1) there shall be an increase in the cost to such Affected Party of funding or maintaining any Loan which accrues Interest at the Term SOFR Rate (or at a rate based upon the then-applicable Benchmark) hereunder or of extending a commitment in respect thereof, or (2) such Affected Party shall be required to make a payment calculated by reference to any Loan which accrues Interest at the Term SOFR Rate (or at a rate based upon the then-applicable Benchmark) funded by it or Interest received by it, or (3) an Affected Party shall be subject to any Taxes (other than (A) Indemnified Taxes, (B) Taxes described in clauses (ii) through (iv) of the definition of Excluded Taxes and (C) Connection Income Taxes) on its loans, loan principal, letters of credit, commitments, or other obligations, or its deposits, reserves, other liabilities or capital attributable thereto, then the Borrowers shall, from time to time, within five (5) Business Days after written demand by the related Lender or other Affected Party, pay such Lender or Affected Party for the account of such Affected Party (as a third party beneficiary, in the case of any Affected Party other than one of the Lenders), that portion of such increased costs incurred, amounts not received or required payment made or to be made, which, subject to the requirements of this Section 2.10, such Lender reasonably determines is attributable to funding and maintaining, or extending a commitment to fund, any portion or all of the Loans; provided, however, that the Borrowers shall only be required to pay any such amounts to such Lender if such Lender is imposing such costs generally on similarly situated borrowers.
(b) Each Affected Party will designate a different lending office if such designation will avoid the need for, or reduce the amount of, such compensation and will not, in the judgment of such Affected Party, be otherwise disadvantageous to it or inconsistent with its internal policies and procedures. In determining the amount of such compensation, such Lender may use any reasonable averaging and attribution methods. The applicable Affected Party shall submit to the Borrower Representative a certificate in reasonable detail describing such increased costs incurred, amounts not received or receivable or required payment made or to be made, which certificate shall be conclusive in the absence of manifest error.
(c) Failure or delay on the part of any Lender to demand compensation pursuant to Section 2.10(a) shall not constitute a waiver of such Lender’s right to demand such compensation; provided that the Borrowers shall not be required to compensate any Lender pursuant to this Section 2.10 for any increased costs or payments incurred more than 180 days prior to the date that such Lender notifies the Borrower Representative of circumstances under subclauses (a)(i) or (ii) above giving rise to such increased costs or payments; provided further that, if the circumstances under subclauses (a)(i) or (ii) above giving rise to such increased costs or payments are retroactive, then the 180-day period referred to above shall be extended to include the period of retroactive effect thereof.
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SECTION 2.11. Increased Capital.
(a) If either (i) the introduction of or any change in or in the interpretation by any Official Body of any law or regulation or (ii) compliance by any Affected Party with (x) any directive or request from any central bank or other Official Body (whether or not having the force of law) imposed after the date hereof or (y) the requirements of, whether such compliance is commenced prior to or after the date hereof, any of (a) Basel III or (b) the Dodd-Frank Act, or any existing rules, regulations, guidance, interpretations or directives from the United States bank regulatory agencies relating to Basel III or the Dodd-Frank Act affects the amount of capital required to be maintained by such Affected Party or such Affected Party reasonably determines that the amount of such capital is increased by or based upon the existence of any Lender’s agreement to make or maintain Loans hereunder and other similar agreements or facilities and such event would have the effect of reducing the rate of return on capital of such Affected Party by an amount deemed by such Affected Party to be material, then, within five (5) Business Days after demand by such Affected Party, the Borrowers shall pay to such Affected Party, from time to time, as specified by such Affected Party, additional amounts sufficient to compensate such Affected Party for such reduction in rate of return, to the extent that such Affected Party reasonably determines such increase in capital to be attributable to the existence of the Affected Party’s agreements hereunder; provided, however, that the Borrowers shall only be required to pay any such amounts to such Lender if such Lender is imposing such costs generally on similarly situated borrowers.
(b) Each Lender will designate a different lending office if such designation will avoid the need for, or reduce the amount of, such compensation and will not, in the judgment of such Lender, be otherwise disadvantageous to it or inconsistent with its internal policies. In determining the amount of such compensation, such Lender may use any reasonable averaging and attribution methods. The applicable Lender shall submit to the Borrower Representative a certificate describing such compensation in reasonable detail, which certificate shall be conclusive in the absence of manifest error.
(c) Failure or delay on the part of any Lender to demand compensation pursuant to Section 2.11(a) shall not constitute a waiver of such Lender’s right to demand such compensation; provided that the Borrowers shall not be required to compensate any Lender pursuant to this Section 2.11 for any increased costs or payments incurred more than 180 days prior to the date that such Lender notifies the Borrower Representative of circumstances under subclauses (a)(i) or (ii) above giving rise to such increased costs or payments; provided further that, if the circumstances under subclauses (a)(i) or (ii) above giving rise to such increased costs or payments are retroactive, then the 180-day period referred to above shall be extended to include the period of retroactive effect thereof.
SECTION 2.12. Funding Losses. Borrower shall indemnify the Administrative Agent for its own account or for the account of the applicable Lender(s) (as the case may be) against any loss or expense which the Administrative Agent or any Lender may actually sustain or incur in liquidating or redeploying deposits from third parties acquired to effect or maintain any Loan or any part thereof as a consequence of (i) any payment or prepayment of such Loan or any portion thereof made on a date other than a Monthly Payment Date and (ii) any default in payment or prepayment of such Loan or any part thereof or interest accrued thereon, as and when due and payable (at the date thereof or otherwise, and whether by acceleration or otherwise) (collectively, “Breakage Costs”). The Administrative Agent shall deliver to Borrowers a statement for any such sums which it (or any Lender) is entitled to receive pursuant to this Section 2.12, which statement shall be binding and conclusive absent manifest error. Borrowers’ obligations under this Section 2.12 are in addition to Borrowers’ obligations to pay any Unused Fee, Extension Fee, Minimum Yield Fee and/or any other fee set forth in this Agreement or any Fee Letter applicable to a payment or prepayment of the Loans.
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SECTION 2.13. Taxes.
(a) Any and all payments by or on account of any obligation of any Loan Party under any Loan Document shall be made without deduction or withholding for any Taxes, except as required by applicable law. If any applicable law (as determined in the good faith discretion of an applicable Withholding Agent) requires the deduction or withholding of any Taxes from any such payment by a Withholding Agent, then the applicable Withholding Agent shall be entitled to make such deduction or withholding and shall timely pay the full amount deducted or withheld to the relevant Governmental Authority in accordance with applicable law and, if such Taxes are Indemnified Taxes, then the sum payable by the applicable Loan Party shall be increased as necessary so that after such deduction or withholding has been made (including such deductions and withholdings applicable to additional sums payable under this Section) the applicable Affected Party receives an amount equal to the sum it would have received had no such deduction or withholding been made.
(b) The Loan Parties shall timely pay to the relevant Governmental Authority in accordance with applicable law, or at the option of the Administrative Agent timely reimburse it for the payment of, any Other Taxes.
(c) The Loan Parties shall jointly and severally indemnify each Affected Party, within 10 days after demand therefor, for the full amount of any Indemnified Taxes (including Indemnified Taxes imposed or asserted on or attributable to amounts payable under this Section) payable or paid by such Affected Party or required to be withheld or deducted from a payment to such Affected Party and any reasonable expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) arising therefrom or with respect thereto, whether or not such Indemnified Taxes were correctly or legally imposed or asserted by the relevant Governmental Authority, and any costs of pursuing enforcement of this indemnification (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses related thereto). A certificate as to the amount of such payment or liability delivered to a Borrower by an Affected Party (with a copy to the Administrative Agent), or by the Administrative Agent on its own behalf or on behalf of an Affected Party, shall be conclusive absent manifest error.
(d) Each Lender shall severally indemnify the Administrative Agent and the U.S. Withholding Agent, within 10 days after demand therefor, for (i) any Indemnified Taxes attributable to such Lender (but only to the extent that any Loan Party has not already indemnified the Administrative Agent for such Indemnified Taxes and without limiting the obligation of the Loan Parties to do so), (ii) any Taxes attributable to such Lender’s failure to comply with the provisions of Section 10.03(e) relating to the maintenance of a Participant Register and (iii) any Excluded Taxes attributable to such Lender, in each case, that are payable or paid by the Administrative Agent or the U.S. Withholding Agent in connection with any Loan Document, and any reasonable expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) arising therefrom or with respect thereto, whether or not such Taxes were correctly or legally imposed or asserted by the relevant Governmental Authority, and any costs of pursuing enforcement of this indemnification (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses related thereto). A certificate as to the amount of such payment or liability delivered to any Lender by the Administrative Agent or the U.S. Withholding Agent shall be conclusive absent manifest error. Each Lender hereby authorizes the Administrative Agent or the U.S. Withholding Agent to set off and apply any and all amounts at any time owing to such Lender under any Loan Document or otherwise payable by the Administrative Agent or the U.S. Withholding Agent to the Lender from any other source against any amount due to the Administrative Agent under this paragraph (d).
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(e) As soon as practicable after any payment of Taxes by any Loan Party to a Governmental Authority pursuant to this Section 2.13, such Loan Party shall deliver to the Administrative Agent the original or a certified copy of a receipt issued by such Governmental Authority evidencing such payment, a copy of the return reporting such payment or other evidence of such payment reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
(f) (i) Any Lender that is entitled to an exemption from or reduction of withholding Taxes with respect to payments made under any Loan Document shall deliver to the Borrower Representative, the Administrative Agent and any applicable Withholding Agent, at the time or times reasonably requested by the Borrower Representative, the Administrative Agent or any Withholding Agent, as applicable, such properly completed and executed documentation reasonably requested by the Borrower Representative, the Administrative Agent or such Withholding Agent, as applicable, as will permit such payments to be made without withholding or at a reduced rate of withholding. In addition, any Lender, if reasonably requested by the Borrower Representative, the Administrative Agent or any Withholding Agent, as applicable, shall deliver such other documentation prescribed by applicable law or reasonably requested by the Borrower Representative, the Administrative Agent or such Withholding Agent, as applicable, as will enable the Borrower Representative, the Administrative Agent or any Withholding Agent, as applicable, to determine whether or not such Lender is subject to backup withholding or information reporting requirements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the preceding two sentences, the completion, execution and submission of such documentation (other than such documentation set forth in Section 2.13(f)(ii)(A), (ii)(B) and (ii)(D) below) shall not be required if in the Lender’s reasonable judgment such completion, execution or submission would subject such Lender to any material unreimbursed cost or expense or would materially prejudice the legal or commercial position of such Lender.
(ii) Without limiting the generality of the foregoing,
(A) any Lender that is a U.S. Person shall deliver to the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent on or prior to the date on which such Lender becomes a Lender under this Agreement (and from time to time thereafter upon the reasonable request of the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative or the Administrative Agent, as applicable), executed originals of IRS Form W-9 certifying that such Lender is exempt from U.S. federal backup withholding tax;
(B) any Foreign Lender shall, to the extent it is legally entitled to do so, deliver to the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent (in such number of copies as shall be requested by the recipient) on or prior to the date on which such Foreign Lender becomes a Lender under this Agreement (and from time to time thereafter upon the reasonable request of the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative or the Administrative Agent), whichever of the following is applicable:
| (1) | in the case of a Foreign Lender claiming the benefits of an income tax treaty to which the United States is a party (x) with respect to payments of interest under any Loan Document, executed originals of IRS Form W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8BEN-E establishing an exemption from, or reduction of, U.S. federal withholding Taxes pursuant to the “interest” article of such tax treaty and (y) with respect to any other applicable payments under any Loan Document, IRS Form W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8BEN-E establishing an exemption from, or reduction of, U.S. federal withholding Taxes pursuant to the “business profits” or “other income” article of such tax treaty; |
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| (2) | executed originals of IRS Form W-8ECI; |
| (3) | in the case of a Foreign Lender claiming the benefits of the exemption for portfolio interest under Section 881(c) of the Code, (x) a certificate in such form as requested by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative to the effect that such Foreign Lender is not a “bank” within the meaning of Section 881(c)(3)(A) of the Code, a “10 percent shareholder” of any Borrower within the meaning of Section 881(c)(3)(B) of the Code, or a “controlled foreign corporation” described in Section 881(c)(3)(C) of the Code (a “U.S. Tax Compliance Certificate”) and (y) executed originals of IRS Form W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8BEN-E; or |
| (4) | to the extent a Foreign Lender is not the beneficial owner or is a partnership, executed originals of IRS Form W-8IMY, accompanied by IRS Form W-8ECI, IRS Form W-8BEN, IRS Form W-8BEN-E, a U.S. Tax Compliance Certificate and/or other certification documents in such form as requested by the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative from or on behalf of each beneficial owner, or IRS Form W-9; |
(C) any Foreign Lender shall, to the extent it is legally entitled to do so, deliver to the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent (in such number of copies as shall be requested by the recipient) on or prior to the date on which such Foreign Lender becomes a Lender under this Agreement (and from time to time thereafter upon the reasonable request of the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative or the Administrative Agent), executed originals of any other form prescribed by applicable law as a basis for claiming exemption from or a reduction in U.S. federal withholding Taxes, duly completed, together with such supplementary documentation as may be prescribed by applicable law to permit the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative or the Administrative Agent to determine the withholding or deduction required to be made; and
(D) if a payment made to a Lender under any Loan Document would be subject to U.S. federal withholding Taxes imposed by FATCA if such Lender were to fail to comply with the applicable reporting requirements of FATCA (including those contained in Section 1471(b) or 1472(b) of the Code, as applicable), such Lender shall deliver to the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent at the time or times prescribed by law and at such time or times reasonably requested by the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative or the Administrative Agent such documentation prescribed by applicable law (including as prescribed by Section 1471(b)(3)(C)(i) of the Code) and such additional documentation reasonably requested by the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative or the Administrative Agent as may be necessary for the U.S. Withholding Agent, the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent to comply with their obligations under FATCA and to determine that such Lender has complied with such Lender’s obligations under FATCA or to determine the amount to deduct and withhold from such payment. The Administrative Agent shall notify the Paying Agent of any deductions and/or withholdings required to be made under FATCA. Solely for purposes of this clause (D), “FATCA” shall include any amendments made to FATCA after the date of this Agreement. Each Lender agrees that if any form or certification it previously delivered expires or becomes obsolete or inaccurate in any respect, it shall update such form or certification or promptly notify the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent in writing of its legal inability to do so. For the avoidance of doubt, neither the Calculation Agent nor the Paying Agent (including in its capacity as the U.S. Withholding Agent) shall have any obligation under this Agreement to determine any withholding amount required pursuant to FATCA or otherwise.
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(g) If any party determines, in its sole discretion exercised in good faith, that it has received a refund of any Taxes as to which it has been indemnified pursuant to this Section 2.13 (including by the payment of additional amounts pursuant to this Section 2.13), it shall pay to the indemnifying party an amount equal to such refund (but only to the extent of indemnity payments made under this Section with respect to the Taxes giving rise to such refund), net of all out-of-pocket expenses (including Taxes) of such indemnified party and without interest (other than any interest paid by the relevant Governmental Authority with respect to such refund). Such indemnifying party, upon the request of such indemnified party, shall repay to such indemnified party the amount paid over pursuant to this paragraph (g) (plus any penalties, interest or other charges imposed by the relevant Governmental Authority) in the event that such indemnified party is required to repay such refund to such Governmental Authority. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this paragraph (g), in no event will the indemnified party be required to pay any amount to an indemnifying party pursuant to this paragraph (g) the payment of which would place the indemnified party in a less favorable net after-Tax position than the indemnified party would have been in if the Taxes subject to indemnification and giving rise to such refund had not been deducted, withheld or otherwise imposed and the indemnification payments or additional amounts with respect to such Taxes had never been paid. This paragraph shall not be construed to require any indemnified party to make available its Tax returns (or any other information relating to its Taxes that it deems confidential) to the indemnifying party or any other Person.
(h) Each party’s obligations under this Section 2.13 shall survive the resignation or replacement of the Administrative Agent or any assignment of rights by, or the replacement of, a Lender, the termination of the Commitments and the repayment, satisfaction or discharge of all Obligations under any Loan Document.
(i) For purposes of this Section 2.13, the term “applicable law” includes FATCA.
(j) Notwithstanding any term or provision of this Section 2.13 to the contrary, and provided that no Borrower has knowledge, prior to Lender’s notification to any Borrower, of any assertion of an assessment by a Governmental Authority for any Indemnified Taxes referred to in this Section 2.13(j), the Borrowers shall not be required to compensate any Lender pursuant to this Section 2.13 for any penalties, interest or expense accrued on Indemnified Taxes payable under this Section 2.13, incurred more than one hundred eighty (180) day prior to the date that such Lender notifies the Borrower Representative of the circumstances giving rise to such Indemnified Taxes.
(k) For U.S. federal income tax purposes (i) the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and the Reserve Accounts will be owned by Borrower Representative (the “Account Owner”). The Account Owner shall provide Computershare, in its capacity as Paying Agent with (i) an IRS Form W-9 or appropriate IRS Form W-8 by the Closing Date, and (ii) any additional IRS forms (or updated versions of any previously submitted IRS forms) or other documentation at such time or times required by applicable law or upon the reasonable request of Computershare as may be necessary (a) to reduce or eliminate the imposition of U.S. withholding taxes to the Account Owner and (b) to permit Computershare to fulfill its tax reporting obligations under applicable law with respect to the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and the Reserve Accounts, as applicable, or any amounts paid to the Account Owner. If any IRS form or other documentation previously delivered by an Account Owner becomes obsolete or inaccurate in any respect (including in connection with the transfer of any beneficial ownership interest in Borrower), the Account Owner shall timely provide to Computershare in its capacity as Paying Agent accurately updated and complete versions of such IRS forms or other documentation. Computershare, both in its individual capacity and in its capacity as Paying Agent, shall have no liability to the Account Owner or any other person in connection with any tax withholding amounts paid or withheld from the Collection Account pursuant to applicable law arising from the Account Owner’s failure to timely provide an accurate, correct and complete IRS Form W-9, an appropriate IRS Form W-8 or such other documentation contemplated under this paragraph.
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SECTION 2.14. Collateral Assignment of Agreements. The Borrowers shall pursuant to the Borrower Security Agreement and the Mortgages collaterally assign to the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, all of the Borrower’s right and title to and interest in, to and under (but not any obligations under) the Purchase Agreements related to Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments, if any, all insurance policies and all other agreements, documents and instruments to which a Borrower is a party evidencing or guarantying any Collateral and all other agreements, documents and instruments to which a Borrower is a party related to any of the foregoing (the “Assigned Documents”). The Borrowers confirm and agree that the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent at the direction of the Administrative Agent or any designee of either such party), during the continuation of an Event of Default, shall have the right to enforce each Borrower’s rights and remedies under each Assigned Document, but without any obligation on the part of the Administrative Agent, the Lenders or any of their respective Affiliates to perform any of the obligations of the Borrowers under any such Assigned Document. The Administrative Agent and Lenders confirm and agree that, so long as no Event of Default exists, the Borrowers shall be permitted to exercise all of their respective rights under the Assigned Documents.
SECTION 2.15. [Reserved].
SECTION 2.16. Refinancings and Transfers.
(a) The Borrowers may effect a Transfer or Refinancing of any Financed Property and direct the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent, as applicable, to release its security interest and Lien, if any, on any such Financed Property (or Financed Single Plat Development, in the case of a Transfer or Refinancing of the Financed Properties comprising such Financed Single Plat Development) and all Collateral related thereto in connection with such Refinancing or Transfer of such Financed Properties, subject to satisfaction of all of the following terms and conditions; provided that this Section 2.16(a) shall not apply to the transfer of any Financed Property to any TRS Borrower:
(i) The Borrowers shall have delivered to the Administrative Agent, the Calculation Agent and the Diligence Agent:
(A) (1) at least ten (10) Business Days prior to any Refinancing or (2) at least five (5) Business Days prior to any Transfer, a Request for Release, together with all attachments thereto and evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent (as confirmed in writing by the Administrative Agent) that the conditions precedent set forth in clause (ii) below will be satisfied prior to the consummation of such Refinancing or Transfer; and
(B) a draft release or assignment of any Mortgage for such Financed Property (or Financed Single Plat Development, in the case of a Transfer or Refinancing of the Financed Properties comprising such Financed Single Plat Development), which release shall be in a form appropriate in the jurisdiction in which such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, as applicable, is located and acceptable to the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent, in each case, in the exercise of their reasonable discretion (as confirmed in writing by the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent) (such release or assignment, a “Mortgage Release”). In addition, the Borrowers shall provide all documentation the Administrative Agent reasonably requires to be delivered by the Borrowers in connection with such release or assignment, together with an officer’s certificate certifying that such documentation (A) will effect such release in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, and (B) will not impair or otherwise adversely affect the Liens, security interests and other rights of any Secured Party under the Loan Documents not being released (or as to the parties to the Loan Documents and Properties subject to the Loan Documents not being released or assigned).
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(ii) On the related Refinancing or Transfer Date, the following shall be true and correct and the Borrowers shall be deemed to have certified that, after giving effect to the Refinancing or Transfer and the release to the Borrowers of the related Collateral on the related Refinancing or Transfer Date:
(A) no more than ten percent (10%) of the Financed Properties (by number) that will remain subject to this Agreement after giving effect to such Refinancing or Transfer will be condominiums;
(B) the representations and warranties contained in the Loan Documents are true and correct in all material respects as of the related Refinancing or Transfer Date, except to the extent any such representations or warranties expressly relate to an earlier date in which case such representations or warranties shall have been true and correct in all material respects as of such earlier date;
(C) no Default arising from a default in payment described in Section 7.01(b) or (d) or an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would exist after giving effect to such Refinancing or Transfer and any related prepayment of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance required pursuant hereto;
(D) if any prepayment of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance is required, whether before or after giving effect to such Refinancing or Transfer, other than the prepayment required under Section 2.06(b)(vi), assuming that the prepayment requirements of Section 2.06(b)(i) – (iii) are tested as of the Refinancing or Transfer Date (rather than a Quarterly Determination Date), such prepayment shall be made concurrently with such Refinancing or Transfer; and
(E) if any Adverse Claim, litigation or governmental proceeding is existing or pending or, to the knowledge of any Borrower, threatened against such Financed Property (or the related Financed Single Plat Development, if any) to be Refinanced or Transferred which may result in liability for the applicable Borrower, adequate reserves reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent shall have been, or upon such Refinancing or Transfer shall be, deposited in the Special Reserves Account.
(iii) (A) The Calculation Agent shall have verified the calculations reflected in the related Request for Release and delivered a report setting forth the results of such calculations (the “Request for Release Report”) to the Administrative Agent and, upon written approval of the same by the Administrative Agent to the Calculation Agent, the Administrative Agent will provide a copy of such report to the Lenders by no later than three (3) Business Days prior to the related Refinancing or Transfer Date and (B) the Administrative Agent shall have received confirmation from the Diligence Agent relating to a sale price for Properties subject to such Request for Release by no later than three (3) Business Days prior to the related Refinancing or Transfer Date.
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(iv) On the related Refinancing or Transfer Date, the Paying Agent shall have received directly from the applicable third party lender with respect to any Refinancing or the applicable transferee with respect to any Transfer (or any agent of such Person, or escrow agent or title insurance company, that is not a Loan Party), for the benefit of the Secured Parties, in immediately available funds, (A) the portion of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance to be prepaid which shall be equal to the applicable Principal Portion of the Release Amount, (B) an amount equal to all unpaid Interest to the extent reasonably determined by the Calculation Agent to be attributable to that portion of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance to be paid in connection with the Refinancing or Transfer, (C) all other unpaid amounts and Fees due to the Administrative Agent, Paying Agent, Calculation Agent, Diligence Agent and the Lenders, as applicable, under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents to the extent accrued to such date, if any, determined by the Calculation Agent to be attributable to that portion of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance to be paid in connection with the Refinancing or Transfer and (D) all other Obligations then due and payable with respect to that portion of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance to be paid in connection with the Refinancing or Transfer. The amount paid pursuant to (1) clause (A) shall be paid to the Debt Service Account on such Refinancing or Transfer Date for application to the payment of principal on the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance to the Lenders, (2) clause (B) shall be deposited in the Collection Account to be applied as Available Funds pursuant to Section 2.07 on the next Monthly Payment Date and (3) clauses (C) and (D) shall be paid to the Persons to whom such amounts are to be owed on the next Monthly Payment Date. Following the application of all payments described in the first sentence of this clause (iv), any remaining amounts shall be paid to or at the written direction of the Borrower Representative.
(v) The Borrowers shall have paid and reimbursed (and hereby agree to pay and reimburse) all reasonable fees and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by the Administrative Agent, any Servicing Agents and the Lenders in connection with any Refinancing or Transfer (including reasonable expenses incurred in connection with the proposed release of any Mortgage and the Lien of the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Lenders and any other party having such an interest in the Collateral in connection with such Refinancing or Transfer).
SECTION 2.17. Release of Lien; Borrowers.
(a) In connection with (i) any Refinancing or Transfer of any Financed Property, the release of any Financed Property that no longer qualifies as an Eligible Property or of the Financed Properties on a Single Plat Development that no longer qualifies as an Approved Single Plat Development in accordance with this Agreement (including Section 2.16) or the release of any Financed Property to cure or avoid an Event of Default in accordance with Sections 7.01(h) or 7.01(i) and subject to the payment of the applicable Release Amount (and deposit of any applicable Special Reserves) with respect to each such Financed Property (including, in the case of any Financed Property located on a Single Plat Development, all Financed Properties located on such Single Plat Development), (ii) any release of any Loan Party permitted by clause (b) below or (iii) the occurrence of the Final Collection Date, the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent agree, at the Borrowers’ expense, and without recourse, representation or warranty, and, in the case of a Refinancing or Transfer, subject to the conditions specified in Section 2.16 and Section 9.08(b), to promptly execute, deliver, file and record any Mortgage Release and any other release, document or other instrument and take such other necessary action that the Borrowers may reasonably request in writing to evidence the release by the Administrative Agent and/or the Collateral Agent, as applicable, of its security interest in the related Collateral.
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(b) If as a result of any Refinancing or Transfer of any Financed Property, the release of any Financed Property that no longer qualifies as an Eligible Property or is located on any Financed Single Plat Development that no longer qualifies as an Approved Single Plat Development in accordance with this Agreement (including Section 2.16) or the release of any Financed Property to cure or avoid an Event of Default in accordance with Sections 7.01(h) or 7.01(i) and subject to the payment of the applicable Release Amount (and deposit of any applicable Special Reserves) with respect to each such Financed Property (including, in the case of any Financed Property located on a Single Plat Development, all Financed Properties located on such Single Plat Development), a Borrower no longer owns any Financed Properties (or Pending Advance Properties) and so long as no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred or be continuing at such time (unless such Event of Default will be cured or avoided in connection with such release), the Administrative Agent and/or the Collateral Agent, as applicable, shall (and is hereby irrevocably authorized by each Lender to), upon the request of the Borrower Representative, release such Borrower (and its related Equity Owner, in each case to the extent that such Person no longer holds any direct or indirect Equity Interest in any other Borrower) from their respective obligations hereunder and under all of the other Loan Documents. In connection with any such release pursuant to this clause (b), the Administrative Agent and/or the Collateral Agent, as applicable, shall (and is hereby irrevocably authorized by each Lender to) execute and deliver to any Loan Party, at Borrowers’ expense, all documents that the Borrowers may shall reasonably request in writing to evidence such release.
SECTION 2.18. The Collection Account.
(a) On or prior to the Closing Date, the Paying Agent shall establish and shall thereafter maintain, at the Securities Intermediary Account Bank, the Collection Account for the purpose of receiving Collections. The Paying Agent shall also establish and maintain, at the Securities Intermediary Account Bank, the Disbursement Account and the Reserve Accounts, which may be sub-accounts of the Collection Account (i.e., ledger or book entry accounts and not actual accounts) or separate Accounts. The taxpayer identification number associated with the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and each Reserve Account shall be that of the Borrower Representative and the Borrower Representative (and other applicable Borrowers) will report for federal, state and local income taxes, as applicable, the income, if any, represented by the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and each Reserve Account. The Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and the Reserve Accounts shall be under the sole dominion and control of the Administrative Agent. All costs and expenses of establishing and maintaining the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and each Reserve Account shall be paid by the Borrowers. For the avoidance of doubt, the Paying Agent (including in its capacity as the Securities Intermediary) shall not be responsible for reviewing and reconciling the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account or any Reserve Account.
(b) The Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and each Reserve Account shall be established and at all times maintained by the Securities Intermediary, which shall act as a “securities intermediary” (as defined in Section 8-102 of the UCC) hereunder and under the Securities Account Control Agreement with respect to the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account and the Reserve Accounts. In the event that the Securities Intermediary Account Bank ceases to be a Qualified Institution, the Securities Intermediary shall, within thirty (30) days thereof, establish a new Collection Account, a new Disbursement Account and new Reserve Accounts, as applicable, at a Qualified Institution (and the Securities Intermediary shall promptly transfer, or cause to be transferred, all amounts in the then existing Collection Account, Disbursement Account and Reserve Accounts, as applicable, to such new accounts).
(c) The Collection Account, the Disbursement Account, and each Reserve Account shall each be a “securities account” as defined in Section 8-501 of the UCC and the Securities Intermediary shall cause each such account to be maintained in the name of the Borrower Representative, subject to the lien of the Administrative Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties. The Securities Intermediary shall (and agrees to cause the Securities Intermediary Account Bank to) treat the Borrower Representative as the “entitlement holder” (within the meaning of Section 8-102(a)(7) of the UCC) under the Securities Account Control Agreement in respect of all “financial assets” (within the meaning of Section 8-102(a)(9) of the UCC) credited to the Collection Account, Disbursement Account, and any Reserve Account.
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(d) The insufficiency of funds on deposit in the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account or any Reserve Account shall not relieve the Borrowers from the obligation to make any payments, as and when due pursuant to this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, and such obligations shall be separate and independent, and not conditioned on any event or circumstance whatsoever.
(e) The rights and protections of the Paying Agent hereunder, including the right to indemnification, shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to the Paying Agent in its capacity as the Securities Intermediary under the Securities Account Control Agreement.
SECTION 2.19. The Paying Agent.
(a) The Administrative Agent hereby appoints Computershare Trust Company, N.A. as the initial Paying Agent. All payments of amounts due and payable in respect of the Obligations that are to be made from amounts withdrawn from the Collection Account pursuant to Section 2.07 shall be made on behalf of the Borrowers by the Paying Agent, in accordance with the written instruction of the Administrative Agent (which may be in electronic form and shall be subject to the terms of this Agreement) received no later than 4:00 p.m. (New York City time) one (1) Business Day prior to the applicable Monthly Payment Date. On the Final Collection Date, all funds then held by the Paying Agent under this Agreement shall, upon receipt of written demand of the Borrowers, be paid to the Administrative Agent to be held and applied according to Section 2.07, and thereupon such Paying Agent shall be released from all further responsibility or liability with respect to such funds.
(b) On each Monthly Payment Date, the Borrowers shall pay to the Paying Agent the Paying Agent Fee pursuant to Section 2.07(c)(ii).
(c) The Paying Agent hereby agrees that subject to the provisions of this Section 2.19, it shall:
(i) hold any sums held by it for the payment of amounts due with respect to the Obligations in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto until such sums shall be paid to such Persons or otherwise disposed of as herein provided and pay such sums to such Persons as herein provided;
(ii) give the Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative notice of any default by any Borrower of which it has actual knowledge in the making of any payment required to be made with respect to the Obligations;
(iii) at any time during the continuance of any Event of Default of which a Responsible Officer of the Paying Agent has received written notice, upon the written instruction of the Administrative Agent (a copy of which shall be provided by the Administrative Agent to the Borrower Representative), promptly pay to the Administrative Agent any sums so held in trust by such Paying Agent;
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(iv) promptly resign as Paying Agent and promptly pay to the Administrative Agent any sums held by it in trust for the payment of the Obligations if at any time it ceases to be a Qualified Institution (in which event the Administrative Agent or one of its Affiliates or designees shall serve as the Paying Agent until such time as a replacement Paying Agent has been appointed in accordance with this Section 2.19);
(v) comply, in its capacity as U.S. Withholding Agent, with all applicable requirements of the Code and any applicable State law with respect to the withholding from any payments made by it in respect of any Obligations of any applicable withholding taxes imposed thereon and with respect to any applicable reporting requirements in connection therewith; and
(vi) provide to the Lenders such information as is required to be delivered under the applicable provisions of the Code or any State law applicable to the particular Paying Agent, relating to payments made by the Paying Agent under this Agreement.
(d) Any successor paying agent shall be appointed by the Administrative Agent (subject to the approval of the Borrower Representative (not to be unreasonably withheld) if no Event of Default has occurred and is then continuing), subject to notice thereof being provided to the Lenders by the Administrative Agent, and to consent by the Majority Lenders; provided that any successor paying agent shall be, at the time of such appointment, a Qualified Institution. The Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative shall mutually agree on the fees required to engage the services of any such successor Paying Agent to the extent that such fees exceed those paid to the prior paying agent and upon such mutual agreement, such approved fee shall constitute the Paying Agent Fee.
(e) The Borrowers shall jointly and severally indemnify the Paying Agent (including in its capacity as the Securities Intermediary) and its officers, directors, employees, affiliates and agents (each, a “PA Party” and collectively, the “PA Parties”) for, and hold them harmless against any loss, liability, damages, fees, costs or expense (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket external attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred, expended or advanced in connection with or arising out of (i) the performance of its obligations under and in accordance with this Agreement, including the reasonable fees, costs and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) of (A) investigating any claim or allegation relating to the exercise or performance of any of its powers or duties under this Agreement, and (B) without duplication of any amount incurred in connection with (A) above, preparing for, and prosecuting or defending itself against any investigation, legal proceeding, whether pending or threatened, related to any claim or liability in connection with the exercise or performance of any of its powers or duties under this Agreement; (ii) pursuing enforcement (including by means of any action, claim, or suit brought by the Paying Agent for such purpose) of any indemnification or other obligation of the Borrowers (the indemnification afforded under this subclause (ii) to include, without limitation, any reasonable and documented out-of-pocket external legal fees, costs and expenses incurred by the Paying Agent in connection therewith); and (iii) the gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith of any Borrower in the performance of its duties hereunder, except in each case to the extent any such loss, liability, damages, fees, costs, or expense results from the gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith of the Paying Agent or any PA Party (in each case, as finally determined by a court of competent jurisdiction or as otherwise agreed to by the parties). All such amounts shall be payable in accordance with Section 2.07. In the event any such indemnity amounts are distributed to the Paying Agent from the Collection Account pursuant to Section 2.07 prior to deposit by the Borrowers of such indemnity amounts therein, the obligation of reimbursement by the Borrowers with respect to such indemnity amounts will instead be payable to the Collection Account. The foregoing indemnification shall survive the termination or assignment of this Agreement and the resignation or removal of the Paying Agent.
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(f) The Paying Agent shall be liable in accordance herewith only to the extent of the obligations specifically undertaken by the Paying Agent in such capacity herein. No implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Agreement against the Paying Agent and no permissive right or privilege of the Paying Agent shall be construed as a duty. In the absence of gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith on the part of the Paying Agent, the Paying Agent may conclusively rely and shall be protected in relying upon the truth of any statements and written direction or instruction and the correctness of the opinions expressed in any certificates or opinions furnished to the Paying Agent pursuant to and conforming to the requirements of this Agreement.
(g) The Paying Agent shall not be liable for (i) an error of judgment made in good faith by one of its officers; or (ii) any action taken, suffered or omitted to be taken in good faith in accordance with or believed by it to be authorized or within the discretion or rights or powers conferred by this Agreement or at the written direction of the Administrative Agent relating to the exercise of any power conferred upon the Paying Agent under this Agreement, in each case, unless it shall be proved that the Paying Agent shall have been grossly negligent or acted in bad faith or with willful misconduct in ascertaining the pertinent facts.
(h) The Paying Agent shall not be charged with knowledge of any Default or Event of Default unless a Responsible Officer of the Paying Agent obtains actual knowledge of such event or the Paying Agent receives written notice of such event from the Borrowers, any Secured Party or the Administrative Agent, as the case may be.
(i) Without limiting the generality of this Section 2.19, the Paying Agent shall have no duty (i) to record, file or deposit this Agreement or any agreement referred to herein or any financing statement or continuation statement evidencing a security interest in the Collateral, or maintain any such recording, filing or depositing or to subsequently record, refile or redeposit any of the same, (ii) except as otherwise provided in Section 2.07, to pay or discharge any Taxes, Real Estate Taxes, assessment or other governmental charge or any Lien or encumbrance of any kind owing with respect to, assessed or levied against, any part of the Assets, (iii) to confirm, recalculate or verify the contents, accuracy or completeness of any reports or certificates of the Administrative Agent or Calculation Agent delivered to the Paying Agent pursuant to this Agreement believed by the Paying Agent to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties or (iv) to ascertain or inquire as to the performance or observance of any of the Borrowers’ representations, warranties or covenants under this Agreement or any other Loan Document.
(j) The Paying Agent shall not be required to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur financial liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if there shall be reasonable grounds for believing that the repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk or liability shall not be reasonably assured to it, and none of the provisions contained in this Agreement shall in any event require the Paying Agent to perform, or be responsible for the manner of performance of, any of the obligations of the Borrowers under this Agreement.
(k) The Paying Agent may conclusively rely and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon any resolution, any certificate of a Responsible Officer, any Monthly Payment Report, any certificate of auditors or any other certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent, order, appraisal, bond or other paper or document reasonably believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties.
(l) The Paying Agent may consult with counsel of its choice with regard to legal questions arising out of or in connection with this Agreement and the advice or opinion of such counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken, omitted or suffered by the Paying Agent in good faith and in accordance therewith. In connection with any request that the Paying Agent take any action or refrain from taking any action, in either case not in conformity with or outside the scope of this Agreement, the Paying Agent shall be entitled to request from the requesting party and to conclusively rely upon, and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon, an officer’s certificate or opinion of counsel delivered by or on behalf of such requesting party. Any opinion of counsel requested by the Paying Agent shall be an expense of the Borrowers.
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(m) The Paying Agent shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights, powers or remedies vested in it by this Agreement (except to comply with its obligations under this Agreement and any other Loan Document to which it is a party) or to institute, conduct or defend any dispute or litigation under this Agreement or in relation to this Agreement, at the request, order or direction of the Administrative Agent pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement, unless the Administrative Agent, on behalf of the Secured Parties, shall have offered to the Paying Agent security or indemnity reasonably acceptable to the Paying Agent against the fees, costs, expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses), damages and liabilities that may be incurred therein or thereby.
(n) The Paying Agent shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts of matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent, order, approval, bond or other paper or document, unless requested in writing so to do by the Administrative Agent; provided, that if the payment within a reasonable time to the Paying Agent of the costs, expenses or liabilities likely to be incurred by it in the making of such investigation shall be, in the opinion of the Paying Agent, not reasonably assured by the Borrowers, the Paying Agent may require security or indemnity reasonably satisfactory to the Paying Agent from the Lenders against such fee, cost, expense (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) or liability as a condition to so proceeding. The reasonable expense of every such examination shall be paid by the Borrowers.
(o) The Paying Agent shall not be responsible or liable for the acts or omissions of the Administrative Agent, the Calculation Agent (unless the same entity is acting as Calculation Agent and Paying Agent), the Borrowers, any Lenders, any Counterparty or any other Person.
(p) Any Person into which the Paying Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which to Paying Agent shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all of the corporate trust business of the Paying Agent, shall be the successor of the Paying Agent under this Agreement, without the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of any of the parties hereto, anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding.
(q) The Paying Agent does not assume and shall have no responsibility for, and makes no representation as to, monitoring the value of the Properties or the Collateral.
(r) The Paying Agent is authorized, in its sole discretion, to disregard any and all notices or instructions given by any other party hereto or by any other person, firm or corporation, except only such notices or instructions as are herein provided for and orders or process of any court entered or issued with or without jurisdiction. If any property subject hereto is at any time attached, garnished or levied upon under any court order or in case the payment, assignment, transfer, conveyance or delivery of any such property shall be stayed or enjoined by any court order, or in case any order, judgment or decree shall be made or entered by any court affecting such property or any part hereof, then and in any of such events the Paying Agent is authorized, in its sole discretion, to rely upon and comply with any such order, writ, judgment or decree with which it is advised by legal counsel of its own choosing is binding upon it, and if it complies with any such order, writ, judgment or decree it shall not be liable to any other party hereto or to any other person, firm or corporation by reason of such compliance even though such order, writ, judgment or decree maybe subsequently reversed, modified, annulled, set aside or vacated.
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(s) The Paying Agent may: (i) terminate its obligations as Paying Agent under this Agreement (subject to the terms set forth herein) upon at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to the Borrowers, the Lenders and the Administrative Agent; provided, however, that, without the consent of the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders, such resignation shall not be effective until a successor paying agent acceptable to the Administrative Agent, and to whose appointment the Majority Lenders do not object within five (5) Business Days after the Lenders are notified thereof (or such shorter period in which the Majority Lenders consent thereto), shall have accepted appointment as Paying Agent, pursuant hereto and shall have agreed to be bound by the terms of this Agreement; or (ii) be removed upon at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice (or such shorter period as shall be acceptable to the Paying Agent) by the Administrative Agent, delivered to the Paying Agent, the Lenders and the Borrower Representative; provided, however, that without the consent of the Majority Lenders, such removal shall not be effective until a successor paying agent acceptable to the Administrative Agent, and to whose appointment the Majority Lenders do not object within five (5) Business Days after the Lenders are notified thereof (or such shorter period in which the Majority Lenders consent thereto) shall have accepted appointment as Paying Agent pursuant hereto and shall have agreed to be bound by the terms of this Agreement. In the event of such termination or removal, the Administrative Agent shall make reasonable efforts to appoint a successor paying agent. If, however, a successor paying agent is not appointed by the Administrative Agent within ninety (90) days after the giving of such notice of resignation or removal, the Paying Agent may petition a court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor paying agent, and the fees, costs and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses and court costs) of such petition shall be paid or reimbursed by the Borrowers.
(t) Any successor paying agent appointed pursuant to the immediately preceding subsection shall execute, acknowledge, and deliver to the Administrative Agent, the Borrower Representative and to the predecessor Paying Agent an instrument accepting such appointment under this Agreement. Thereupon, the resignation or removal of the predecessor Paying Agent shall become effective and such successor paying agent, without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become fully vested with all the rights, powers, duties, and obligations of its predecessor as Paying Agent under this Agreement, with like effect as if originally named as Paying Agent. The predecessor Paying Agent shall upon receipt of payment of all of its fees, costs and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses), indemnity amounts and all other amounts, deliver to the successor Paying Agent all documents and statements and monies held by it under this Agreement; and the Administrative Agent and the predecessor Paying Agent shall execute and deliver such instruments and do such other things as may reasonably be requested by the Administrative Agent for fully and certainly vesting and confirming in the successor paying agent all such rights, powers, duties, and obligations.
(u) In the event the Paying Agent’s appointment hereunder is terminated without cause, the Borrowers shall (i) reimburse the Paying Agent for the reasonable out-of-pocket expenses of the Paying Agent incurred in transferring any funds in its possession to the successor paying agent and (ii) if such termination occurs on or prior to the first anniversary of the appointment of such Paying Agent, pay to the terminated Paying Agent a termination fee equal to the unearned prorated portion of the Paying Agent Fee for that first year.
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(v) The Loan Parties hereby agree, in connection with an appointment of a successor paying agent, to negotiate in good faith any modifications to this Agreement related to the rights and obligations of the Paying Agent which are reasonably requested by such successor paying agent.
(w) Knowledge or information acquired or received by (i) Computershare in any of its respective capacities hereunder or under any other document related to this transaction shall not be imputed to Computershare in any of its other capacities hereunder or under such other documents except to the extent their respective duties are performed by Responsible Officers in the same division or department of Computershare, and (ii) any Affiliate of Computershare shall not be imputed to Computershare in any of its respective capacities hereunder and vice versa.
(x) Other than with respect to any information that the Paying Agent has an express duty hereunder to review, the Paying Agent shall not be deemed to have knowledge of any fact or matter for purposes of this Agreement unless a Responsible Officer of the Paying Agent (i) has actual knowledge thereof or (ii) receives written notice with respect thereto.
(y) The Paying Agent shall not be under any obligation to take any action in the performance of its respective duties hereunder that would be in violation of applicable law, statute, rule, regulation, order or ordinance.
(z) The recitals contained herein shall not be taken as the statements of the Paying Agent and the Paying Agent assumes no responsibility for their accuracy, completeness or correctness.
(aa) For purposes of satisfying any information collection and tax reporting obligations under the Code and U.S. Treasury Regulations (including, without limitation and to the extent applicable, any cost basis reporting obligations thereunder), each Borrower and each Lender agrees to provide to the Paying Agent all information required by the Code and U.S. Treasury Regulations to be provided by such person (or as may be reasonably requested by the Paying Agent), to permit the Paying Agent to satisfy its obligations thereunder.
(bb) The rights, protections, limitations of liability, and immunities of the Paying Agent hereunder, including, without limitation, its right to indemnification, shall also apply to the Paying Agent (including in its capacity as the Securities Intermediary) in the performance or exercise of its duties, powers, and rights under any under the Securities Account Control Agreement.
(cc) The Paying Agent may delegate or perform any of its rights, duties, or powers under this Agreement by or through affiliates, agents, sub-agents, service providers, or attorneys-in-fact and shall be entitled to advice of counsel concerning all matters pertaining to such rights, duties, or powers provided that such delegation shall not relieve Paying Agent of any of its duties or obligations hereunder.
(dd) The Paying Agent shall not be responsible or liable for any delays or failures in performance resulting from a force majeure event outside of its control, which includes, without limitation, an act of God, strike, lockout, riot, act of war or terrorism, epidemic, pandemic, quarantine, governmental or regulatory action, fire, communication line or system failure, computer virus (including any malware or ransomware attack), computer hardware or software failure, power or utility failure, earthquake, or the unavailability of the Federal Reserve Bank wire or telex system or other applicable wire or funds transfer system. Upon the occurrence of such delays or failures in performance, the Paying Agent shall use commercially reasonable efforts to remedy such delays and failures as soon as reasonably practicable.
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(ee) In no event shall the Paying Agent be liable for any special, indirect, punitive or consequential damages (including, but not limited to, lost profits), even if the Paying Agent has been advised of the likelihood of such damage and regardless of the form of action.
(ff) The Paying Agent shall not have any responsibility or liability for or with respect to the perfection or priority of any interest of any party in the Collection Account (or any other account, property, or collateral referenced in this Agreement), or the monitoring or maintenance of any such perfection or priority.
SECTION 2.20. The Calculation Agent.
(a) Computershare Trust Company, N.A. is hereby appointed as Calculation Agent and is authorized to take such actions and to exercise such powers and perform such duties as are expressly delegated to the Calculation Agent by the terms hereof, together with such other powers as are reasonably incidental thereto.
(i) The duties of the Calculation Agent hereunder shall be limited to (A) verifying the calculations of the Borrowers (collectively, the “Calculations”) with respect to each Borrowing Request, each Monthly Borrower Report, each Monthly Payment Report, each Reserve Release Request, each Request for Release and each Compliance Certificate based solely on information provided to the Calculation Agent by the Borrowers, in each case, as set forth on Schedule VI hereto, (B) calculating the Term SOFR Rate or, following a conversion to the Alternate Rate or the Prime Rate pursuant to Section 2.04, the Alternate Rate or the Prime Rate, hereunder (based upon the information provided by the Administrative Agent) and (C) maintaining the records set forth in Section 2.01(e).
(ii) The Calculation Agent shall verify the Calculations as set forth herein.
(iii) In the event of a discrepancy between the calculations received by the Calculation Agent from the Borrowers and the results of the verification conducted by the Calculation Agent, the Calculation Agent shall give prompt written notice (which may be in electronic form) of such discrepancy to the Borrowers, the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent, and the Calculation Agent shall work with such parties in good faith to resolve such discrepancy. In each case, the final result agreed to by the parties with respect to such Calculations shall be approved in writing (which may be in electronic form) by the Borrowers, the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent.
(iv) Each of the Borrowers, the Lenders and the Administrative Agent agree that so long as the Calculation Agent complies with the terms of clauses (ii) and (iii) above, the Calculation Agent shall have no liability with respect to any Calculations that are verified by the Calculation Agent (including pursuant to consultations described in clause (iii) above) that are subsequently determined to be incorrect, except to the extent of the Calculation Agent’s bad faith, gross negligence or willful misconduct. For avoidance of doubt, such exculpation from liability shall include, without limitation, any loss, liability, damage or expense of Lenders (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred as a result of lending to Borrowers based on any such erroneous calculations.
(b) On each Monthly Payment Date, the Borrowers shall pay to the Calculation Agent any Calculation Agent Fee due to the Calculation Agent pursuant to Section 2.07(c)(ii).
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(c) Any successor calculation agent shall be appointed by the Administrative Agent (subject to the approval of the Borrower Representative (not to be unreasonably withheld) so long as no Event of Default has occurred and is then continuing) subject to providing notice thereof to the Lenders and the absence of objection thereto by the Majority Lenders within five (5) Business Days after being notified thereof (or such shorter period in which the Majority Lenders consent thereto). The Administrative Agent and the Borrower Representative shall mutually agree on the fees required to engage the services of any such successor calculation agent to the extent that such fees exceed those paid to the prior Calculation Agent and upon such mutual agreement, such approved fee shall constitute the Calculation Agent Fee.
(d) The Borrowers shall jointly and severally indemnify the Calculation Agent and its officers, directors, employees, affiliates and agents (each, a “CA Party” and collectively, the “CA Parties”) for, and hold them harmless against, any loss, liability, damages, costs or expense (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket external attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred, expended or advanced in connection with or arising out of (i) the performance of its obligations under and in accordance with this Agreement, including the reasonable costs and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) of (A) investigating any claim, dispute or allegation relating to the exercise or performance of any of its powers or duties under this Agreement, and (B) without duplication of any amount incurred in connection with (A) above, preparing for, and prosecuting or defending itself against any claim, dispute, investigation, legal proceeding, whether pending or threatened, related to any claim or liability in connection with the exercise or performance of any of its powers or duties under this Agreement; (ii) pursuing enforcement (including by means of any action, claim, or suit brought by the Calculation Agent for such purpose) of any indemnification or other obligation of the Borrowers (the indemnification afforded under this clause (ii) to include, without limitation, any reasonable and documented out-of-pocket external legal fees, costs and expenses incurred by the Calculation Agent in connection therewith); and (iii) the gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith of any Borrower in the performance of its duties hereunder, except in each case to the extent any such loss, liability, damages, costs or expense results from the gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith of the Calculation Agent or any CA Party (in each case, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction pursuant or as otherwise agreed to by the parties). All such indemnification amounts shall be payable in accordance with Section 2.07. In the event any such indemnity amounts are distributed to the Calculation Agent from the Collection Account pursuant to Section 2.07 prior to deposit by the Borrowers of such indemnity amounts therein, the obligation of reimbursement by the Borrowers with respect to such indemnity amounts will instead be payable to the Collection Account. The foregoing indemnification shall survive the termination or assignment of this Agreement and the resignation or removal of the Calculation Agent.
(e) The Calculation Agent shall be liable in accordance herewith only to the extent of the obligations specifically undertaken by the Calculation Agent in such capacity herein. No implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Agreement against the Calculation Agent, and no permissive right or privilege of the Calculation Agent shall be construed as a duty or obligation. In the absence of gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith on the part of the Calculation Agent, the Calculation Agent may conclusively rely and shall be protected in relying upon the truth of the statements and the correctness of the opinions expressed in any certificates or opinions furnished to the Calculation Agent pursuant to and conforming to the requirements of this Agreement. The Calculation Agent shall not be responsible for verifying any calculations pursuant to this Agreement to the extent information necessary to make such verifications is not provided to it by the Administrative Agent or the Borrowers.
(f) The Calculation Agent shall not be liable for (i) an error of judgment made in good faith by one of its officers, employees, agents, affiliates or attorneys; or (ii) any action taken, suffered or omitted to be taken in good faith in accordance with or believed by it to be authorized or within the discretion or rights, privileges or powers conferred by this Agreement or at the written direction of the Administrative Agent relating to the exercise of any power conferred upon the Calculation Agent under this Agreement, in each case, unless it shall be proved that the Calculation Agent shall have been grossly negligent or acted in bad faith or with willful misconduct in ascertaining the pertinent facts.
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(g) The Calculation Agent shall not be charged with knowledge of any Default or Event of Default unless a Responsible Officer of the Calculation Agent obtains actual knowledge of such event or the Calculation Agent receives written notice of such event from the Borrowers, any Secured Party or the Administrative Agent, as the case may be.
(h) Without limiting the generality of this Section 2.20, the Calculation Agent shall have no duty (i) to record, file or deposit this Agreement or any agreement referred to herein or any financing statement or continuation statement evidencing a security interest in the Collateral, or maintain any such recording, filing or depositing or to subsequently record, refile or redeposit any of the same, (ii) to pay or discharge any Taxes, Real Estate Taxes, assessment or other governmental charge or any Lien or encumbrance of any kind owing with respect to, assessed or levied against, any part of the Assets, (iii) to confirm, recalculate or verify the contents, accuracy or completeness of any reports or certificates of the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent delivered to the Calculation Agent pursuant to this Agreement believed by the Calculation Agent to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties or (iv) to ascertain or inquire as to the performance or observance of any of the Borrowers’ (or any other party’s) representations, warranties or covenants under this Agreement or any other Loan Document.
(i) The Calculation Agent shall not be required to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur financial liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if there shall be reasonable grounds for believing that the repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against such risk or liability shall not be reasonably assured to it, and none of the provisions contained in this Agreement shall in any event require the Calculation Agent to perform, or be responsible for the manner of performance of, any of the obligations of the Borrowers under this Agreement.
(j) The Calculation Agent may conclusively rely and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon any resolution, any certificate of a Responsible Officer, any report, any certificate of auditors or any other certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent, order, appraisal, bond or other paper or document reasonably believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties.
(k) The Calculation Agent may consult with counsel of its choice with regard to legal questions arising out of or in connection with this Agreement and the advice or opinion of such counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken, omitted or suffered by the Calculation Agent in good faith and in accordance therewith. In connection with any request that the Calculation Agent take any action or refrain from taking any action, in either case not in conformity with and outside the scope of this Agreement, the Calculation Agent shall be entitled to request from the requesting party and to conclusively rely upon, and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting upon, an officer’s certificate or opinion of counsel delivered by or on behalf of such requesting party. Any opinion of counsel requested by the Calculation Agent shall be an expense of the Borrowers.
(l) The Calculation Agent shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights, powers, privileges or remedies vested in it by this Agreement (except to comply with its obligations under this Agreement and any other Loan Document to which it is a party) or to institute, conduct or defend any litigation under this Agreement or in relation to this Agreement, at the request, order or direction of the Administrative Agent pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement, unless the Administrative Agent, on behalf of the Secured Parties, shall have offered to the Calculation Agent security or indemnity reasonably satisfactory to the Calculation Agent against the fees, costs, expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) and liabilities that may be incurred therein or thereby.
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(m) The Calculation Agent shall not be bound to make any review or investigation into the facts of matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent, order, approval, bond or other paper or document, unless requested in writing so to do by the Administrative Agent; provided, that if the payment within a reasonable time to the Calculation Agent of the fees, costs, expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) or liabilities likely to be incurred by it in the making of such investigation shall be, in the opinion of the Calculation Agent, not reasonably assured by the Borrowers, the Calculation Agent may require security or indemnity reasonably satisfactory to the Calculation Agent from the Lenders against such fee, cost, expense (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) or liability as a condition to so proceeding. The reasonable expense of every such examination shall be paid by the Borrowers or, if paid by the Calculation Agent, shall be reimbursed by the Borrowers to the extent of funds available therefor pursuant to Section 2.07.
(n) The Calculation Agent shall not be responsible for the acts or omissions of the Administrative Agent, the Paying Agent (unless the same entity is then acting as Calculation Agent and Paying Agent), the Borrowers, any Lenders, any Counterparty or any other Person.
(o) Any Person into which the Calculation Agent may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated, or any Person resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which to Calculation Agent shall be a party, or any Person succeeding to all or substantially all of the corporate trust business of the Calculation Agent, shall be the successor of the Calculation Agent under this Agreement, without the execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of any of the parties hereto, anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding.
(p) The Calculation Agent does not assume and shall have no responsibility for, and makes no representation as to, monitoring the value of the Properties or the Collateral.
(q) If the Calculation Agent shall at any time receive conflicting instructions from the Administrative Agent and the Borrowers or any other party to this Agreement and the conflict between such instructions cannot be resolved by reference to the terms of this Agreement, the Calculation Agent shall be entitled to rely without liability on the instructions of the Administrative Agent. In the absence of bad faith, gross negligence or willful misconduct on the part of the Calculation Agent, the Calculation Agent may rely upon and shall be protected in acting or refraining from acting based upon any resolution, officer’s certificate, any Monthly Payment Report, certificate of auditors, or any other certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent, order, appraisal, bond or other paper or document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper party or parties. The Calculation Agent may rely upon the validity of documents delivered to it, without investigation as to their authenticity or legal effectiveness, and the parties to this Agreement will hold the Calculation Agent harmless from any claims that may arise or be asserted against the Calculation Agent because of the invalidity of any such documents or their failure to fulfill their intended purpose.
(r) The Calculation Agent is authorized, in its sole discretion, to disregard any and all notices or instructions given by any other party hereto or by any other person, firm or corporation, except only such notices or instructions as are herein provided for and orders or process of any court entered or issued with or without jurisdiction. If any property subject hereto is at any time attached, garnished or levied upon under any court order or in case the payment, assignment, transfer, conveyance or delivery of any such property shall be stayed or enjoined by any court order, or in case any order, judgment or decree shall be made or entered by any court affecting such property or any part hereof, then and in any of such events the Calculation Agent is authorized, in its sole discretion, to rely upon and comply with any such order, writ, judgment or decree with which it is advised by legal counsel of its own choosing is binding upon it, and if it complies with any such order, writ, judgment or decree it shall not be liable to any other party hereto or to any other person, firm or corporation by reason of such compliance even though such order, writ, judgment or decree maybe subsequently reversed, modified, annulled, set aside or vacated.
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(s) The Calculation Agent may delegate, exercise, or perform any of its duties, powers, or rights under this Agreement by or through affiliates, agents, sub-agents, service providers or attorneys-in-fact and shall be entitled to advice of counsel concerning all matters pertaining to such duties, powers, or rights. The Calculation Agent shall not be responsible or liable for the negligence or misconduct of any agents, sub-agents, service providers, affiliates, or attorneys-in-fact selected by it with reasonable care in the absence of gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct. The Borrowers shall pay or reimburse the Calculation Agent for any reasonable fees, costs, or expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred, expended, or advanced by the Calculation Agent with respect to any agents, affiliates, sub-agents, service providers, or attorneys-in-fact appointed by the Calculation Agent pursuant to this Section 2.20 and such affiliates, agents, service providers and attorneys-in-fact shall be entitled to all the same protections, indemnification rights, and exculpation by the Loan Parties as may apply to the Calculation Agent.
(t) The Calculation Agent may: (i) terminate its obligations as Calculation Agent under this Agreement (subject to the terms set forth herein) upon at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to the Borrowers, the Lenders and the Administrative Agent; provided, however, that, without the consent of the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders, such resignation shall not be effective until a successor calculation agent acceptable to the Administrative Agent, and to whose appointment the Majority Lenders do not reasonably object within five (5) Business Days after the Lenders are notified thereof (or such shorter period in which the Majority Lenders consent thereto), shall have accepted appointment as Calculation Agent, pursuant hereto and shall have agreed to be bound by the terms of this Agreement; or (ii) be removed upon at least thirty (30) days’ prior written demand of the Administrative Agent, delivered to the Calculation Agent, the Lenders and the Borrower Representative; provided, further, however, that such removal shall not be effective until the appointment of a successor calculation agent acceptable to the Administrative Agent, and to whose appointment the Majority Lenders do not reasonably object within five (5) Business Days after the Lenders are notified thereof (or such shorter period in which the Majority Lenders consent thereto), shall have accepted appointment as Calculation Agent, pursuant hereto and shall have agreed to be bound by the terms of this Agreement. In the event of such termination or removal, the Administrative Agent shall make reasonable efforts to appoint a successor calculation agent. If, however, a successor calculation agent is not appointed by the Administrative Agent within ninety (90) days after the giving of a notice of resignation or removal, the Calculation Agent may petition a court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor calculation agent, and the fees, costs, and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses and court costs) of such petition shall be paid or reimbursed by the Administrative Agent; provided, however, if the failure to appoint a successor calculation agent in accordance with this section is caused by the Borrower Representative’s failure to agree, in contravention of clause (w) below, to modifications of this Agreement related to the rights and obligations of the Calculation Agent which are reasonably requested by such successor calculation agent, including, but not limited to, the fees required to engage the services of such successor calculation agent, then the fees, costs, and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses and court costs) of such petition shall be paid or reimbursed by the Borrowers; provided further if the failure to appoint a successor calculation agent in accordance with this section is caused by the Majority Lenders’ unreasonable objection to the appointment of such successor calculation agent, then the fees, costs, and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses and court costs) of such petition shall be paid or reimbursed by the Lenders ratably according to their respective Lender Percentages.
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(u) Any successor calculation agent appointed pursuant to the immediately preceding subsection shall execute, acknowledge, and deliver to the Administrative Agent, the Borrowers and to the predecessor Calculation Agent a written instrument accepting such appointment under this Agreement. Thereupon, the resignation or removal of the predecessor Calculation Agent shall become effective and such successor calculation agent, without any further act, deed or conveyance, shall become fully vested with all the rights, powers, duties, and obligations of its predecessor as Calculation Agent under this Agreement, with like effect as if originally named as Calculation Agent. The predecessor Calculation Agent shall upon receipt of payment of all of its fees, costs, and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses), indemnity amounts, and any other amounts, deliver to the successor calculation agent all documents and statements and monies held by it under this Agreement; and the Administrative Agent and the predecessor Calculation Agent shall execute and deliver such instruments and do such other things as may reasonably be requested in writing by the Administrative Agent for fully and certainly vesting and confirming in the successor calculation agent all such rights, powers, duties, and obligations.
(v) In the event the Calculation Agent’s appointment hereunder is terminated without cause, the Borrowers shall (i) reimburse the Calculation Agent for the reasonable out-of-pocket fees, costs and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) of the Calculation Agent incurred in transferring any funds in its possession to the successor calculation agent and (ii) if such termination occurs on or prior to the first anniversary of the appointment of such Calculation Agent, pay to the terminated Calculation Agent a termination fee equal to the unearned prorated portion of the Calculation Agent Fee for that first year.
(w) The Loan Parties and the Sponsors hereby agree, in connection with an appointment of a successor Calculation Agent, to negotiate in good faith any modifications to this Agreement related to the rights and obligations of the Calculation Agent which are reasonably requested by such successor Calculation Agent.
(x) Other than with respect to any information that the Calculation Agent has an express duty hereunder to review, the Calculation Agent shall not be deemed to have knowledge of any fact or matter for purposes of this Agreement unless a Responsible Officer of the Calculation Agent (i) has actual knowledge thereof or (ii) receives written notice with respect thereto.
(y) The Calculation Agent shall not be under any obligation to take any action in the performance of its respective duties hereunder that would be in violation of applicable law, statute, regulation, order, or ordinance.
(z) The Calculation Agent shall have no responsibility, obligation or liability with respect to (i) monitoring, determining or verifying the occurrence of any Benchmark Unavailability Condition, or giving notice to any party of the occurrence of any Benchmark Unavailability Condition, (ii) selecting, determining or designating any Alternate Rate or Benchmark Replacement, or determining whether any conditions to the designation of any Alternate Rate or the Prime Rate have been satisfied, or (iii) determining whether or what amendments to this Agreement are necessary in connection with any of the foregoing, even if the Administrative Agent does not take these or any other actions in accordance with this Agreement.
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(aa) The recitals contained herein shall not be taken as the statements of the Calculation Agent and the Calculation Agent shall have and assumes no responsibility for their accuracy, completeness, or correctness.
(bb) The Calculation Agent shall not be responsible or liable for any delays or failures in performance resulting from a force majeure event outside of its control, which includes, without limitation, an act of God, strike, lockout, riot, act of war or terrorism, epidemic, pandemic, quarantine, governmental or regulatory action, fire, communication line or system failure, computer virus (including any malware or ransomware attack), computer hardware or software failure, power or utility failure, earthquake, or the unavailability of the Federal Reserve Bank wire or telex system or other applicable wire or funds transfer system. Upon the occurrence of such delays or failures in performance, the Calculation Agent shall use commercially reasonable efforts to remedy such delays and failures as soon as reasonably practicable.
(cc) In no event shall the Calculation Agent be liable for any special, indirect, punitive or consequential damages (including, but not limited to, lost profits), even if the Calculation Agent has been advised of the likelihood of such damage and regardless of the form of action.
(dd) The Calculation Agent shall not have any responsibility or liability for or with respect to the perfection or priority of any interest of any party in the Collection Account (or any other account, property or collateral referenced in this Agreement), or the monitoring or maintenance of any such perfection or priority.
SECTION 2.21. Defaulting Lenders. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, if any Lender becomes a Defaulting Lender, then the following provisions shall apply for so long as such Lender is a Defaulting Lender:
(a) Unused Fees shall cease to accrue on the unfunded portion of the Commitment of such Defaulting Lender pursuant to Section 2.05(b). Any amount paid by the Borrowers for the account of a Defaulting Lender under this Agreement (whether on account of principal, interest, fees, indemnity payments or other amounts) will not be paid or distributed to such Defaulting Lender, but will instead be retained by the Administrative Agent in a segregated, non-interest bearing account until the occurrence of the Final Collection Date, after which such amount shall be used to pay amounts owing under this Agreement to such Defaulting Lender or as a court of competent jurisdiction may otherwise direct;
(b) upon the election of the Borrowers and written notice to the Administrative Agent, the unused portion of the Commitment of such Defaulting Lender may be reduced to zero without any contemporaneous ratable reduction of the Commitments of the other Lenders;
(c) neither the Commitment nor the Loans of such Defaulting Lender shall be included in determining whether all Lenders or the Majority Lenders have taken or may take any action hereunder and the Defaulting Lender shall not be included in determining whether all Lenders have taken or may have taken any action hereunder (including, in each case, any consent to any amendment or waiver pursuant to Section 10.01); provided, that any waiver, amendment or modification requiring the consent of all Lenders which affects such Defaulting Lender differently than other affected Lenders or Lenders shall require the consent of such Defaulting Lender, as applicable; and
(d) the Borrowers may replace such Defaulting Lender in accordance with Section 2.22.
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In the event that the Administrative Agent, and, so long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Borrower Representative, determines that a Defaulting Lender has adequately remedied all matters that caused such Lender to be a Defaulting Lender, then (x) the Lender Percentages shall be readjusted to reflect the inclusion of such Lender’s Commitment and on such date such Lender shall purchase at par such of the Loans of the other Lenders as the Administrative Agent and the Lenders shall determine may be necessary in order for such Lender to hold such Loans in accordance with its Lender Percentage whereupon such Lender will cease to be a Defaulting Lender and will be a Non-Defaulting Lender and (y) the provisions of clauses (a) through (d) above shall, from and after such determination, cease to be of further force or effect with respect to such Lender; provided that no adjustments will be made retroactively with respect to fees accrued or payments made by or on behalf of the Borrowers while such Lender was a Defaulting Lender; provided, further, that except to the extent otherwise expressly agreed by the affected parties, no change hereunder from Defaulting Lender to Non-Defaulting Lender will constitute a waiver or release of any claim of any party hereunder arising from such Lender having been a Defaulting Lender.
SECTION 2.22. Replacement of a Lender.
(a) If (i) any Affected Party requests compensation under Section 2.10(a), 2.11(a), or 2.13 or any Lender ceases to make any Loans as a result of any condition described in Section 2.10(a), 2.11(a) or 2.13, (ii) any Lender becomes a Defaulting Lender or (iii) any Lender becomes a Non-Consenting Lender, then the Borrowers may, at their sole expense and effort, upon notice to the related Lender and the Administrative Agent, (x) require such Lender to assign and delegate, without recourse (in accordance with and subject to the restrictions contained in Section 10.03), all of its respective interests, rights and obligations under this Agreement to an assignee that shall assume such obligations (which assignee may be another Lender if a Lender accepts such assignment); provided, that (A) the Borrowers shall have received the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent with respect to any assignee that is not already a Lender hereunder, which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld, (B) the assignee shall not be an Affiliate of any Loan Party, (C) such assigning Lender shall have received payment of an amount equal to all outstanding Loans funded or maintained by such Lender, together with all accrued Interest thereon and all accrued Fees and other Obligations payable to them hereunder and under the Loan Documents, from the assignee, (D) in the case of any such assignment resulting from a claim for compensation under Section 2.10(a), Section 2.11(a), or Section 2.13 such assignment will result in a reduction in such compensation or payments and (E) in the case of any such assignment resulting from a Lender becoming a Non-Consenting Lender, the applicable assignee shall have agreed to, and shall be sufficient (together with all other consenting Lenders) to cause the adoption of, the applicable departure, waiver or amendment of the Loan Documents or (y) terminate the Commitment of such Lender and repay all Obligations of the Borrowers owing to such Lender relating to the Loans held by such Lender as of such termination date (without the payment of any fees); provided that in the case of any such termination of a Non-Consenting Lender, such termination shall be sufficient (together with all other consenting Lenders) to cause the adoption of the applicable departure, waiver or amendment of the Loan Documents. A Lender shall not be required to make any such assignment and delegation if, prior thereto, as a result of a waiver by such Lender or otherwise, the circumstances entitling the Borrowers to require such assignment and delegation cease to exist.
(b) Any Lender being replaced pursuant to Section 2.22(a) above shall execute and deliver an Assignment and Acceptance with respect to such Lender’s applicable Commitment and outstanding Loans. Pursuant to such Assignment and Acceptance, (A) the assignee Lender shall acquire all or a portion, as the case may be, of the assigning Lender’s Commitment and outstanding Loans and (B) all obligations of the Borrowers owing to the assigning Lender relating to the Loans and Commitments so assigned shall be paid in full by the assignee Lender to such assigning Lender concurrently with such Assignment and Acceptance, the assignee Lender shall become a Lender hereunder and the assigning Lender shall cease to constitute a Lender hereunder with respect to such assigned Loans and Commitments, except with respect to indemnification provisions under this Agreement, which shall survive as to such assigning Lender. In connection with any such replacement, if any such Non-Consenting Lender or Defaulting Lender does not execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent a duly executed Assignment and Acceptance reflecting such replacement within three (3) Business Days of the date on which the assignee Lender executes and delivers such Assignment and Acceptance to such Non-Consenting Lender or Defaulting Lender, then such Non-Consenting Lender or Defaulting Lender shall be deemed to have executed and delivered such Assignment and Acceptance without any action on the part of the Non-Consenting Lender or Defaulting Lender.
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(c) In the event that the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent has requested that the Lenders consent to a departure or waiver of any provisions of the Loan Documents or agree to any amendment thereto and the consent, waiver or amendment in question requires the agreement of the Supermajority Lenders, all affected Lenders or all the Lenders, in each case in accordance with the terms of Section 10.01 and the Majority Lenders have agreed to such consent, waiver or amendment, then any Lender who does not agree to such consent, waiver or amendment shall be deemed a “Non-Consenting Lender.” For the avoidance of doubt, (x) Non-Consenting Lender shall not include any Lender that abstains from voting on any consent, waiver or amendment if the vote of such Lender would not be required in order for such consent, waiver or amendment to be approved pursuant to this Agreement, and (y) if the Administrative Agent is also a Lender, any failure of the Administrative Agent, acting in its capacity as Administrative Agent, to grant any consent, waiver or amendment shall not result in the Administrative Agent, acting in its capacity as a Lender, being deemed to be a Non-Consenting Lender.
SECTION 2.23. Joint and Several Liability of Borrowers.
(a) Each Borrower hereby irrevocably and unconditionally accepts joint and several liability hereunder and under the other Loan Documents to which a Borrower is a party in consideration of the financial accommodations to be provided by the Lenders under this Agreement, for the mutual benefit, directly and indirectly, of each Borrower and in consideration of the undertakings of the other Borrowers to accept joint and several liability for the Obligations.
(b) Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, each Borrower hereby waives, to the extent permitted by law, notice of acceptance of its joint and several liability, notice of any Loans issued under or pursuant to this Agreement, notice of the occurrence of any Default, Event of Default, or of any demand for any payment under this Agreement, notice of any action at any time taken or omitted by the Administrative Agent or Lenders under or in respect of any of the Obligations, any requirement of diligence or to mitigate damages and, generally, to the extent permitted by applicable law, all demands, notices and other formalities of every kind in connection with this Agreement. Each Borrower hereby, to the extent permitted by law, assents to, and waives notice of, any extension or postponement of the time for the payment of any of the Obligations, the acceptance of any payment of any of the Obligations, the acceptance of any partial payment thereon, any waiver, consent or other action or acquiescence by the Administrative Agent or Lenders at any time or times in respect of any default by any Borrower in the performance or satisfaction of any term, covenant, condition or provision of this Agreement, any and all other indulgences whatsoever by the Administrative Agent or Lenders in respect of any of the Obligations, and the taking, addition, substitution or release, in whole or in part, at any time or times, of any security for any of the Obligations or the addition, substitution or release, in whole or in part, of any Borrower. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each Borrower assents to any other action or delay in acting or failure to act on the part of the Administrative Agent or any Lender with respect to the failure by any Borrower to comply with any of its respective Obligations, including any failure strictly or diligently to assert any right or to pursue any remedy or to comply fully with applicable laws or regulations thereunder, which might, but for the provisions of this Section 2.23 afford grounds for terminating, discharging or relieving any Borrower, in whole or in part, from any of its Obligations under this Section 2.23, it being the intention of each Borrower that, so long as any of the Obligations hereunder remain unsatisfied, the Obligations of each Borrower under this Section 2.23 shall not be discharged except by performance and then only to the extent of such performance. The Obligations of each Borrower under this Section 2.23 shall not be diminished or rendered unenforceable by any winding up, reorganization, arrangement, liquidation, examination, reconstruction or similar proceeding with respect to any Borrower or any Secured Party.
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(c) Each Borrower represents and warrants to the Administrative Agent and Lenders that such Borrower is currently informed of the financial condition of the other Borrowers and of all other circumstances which a diligent inquiry would reveal and which bear upon the risk of nonpayment of the Obligations. Each Borrower further represents and warrants to the Administrative Agent and Lenders that such Borrower has read and understands the terms and conditions of the Loan Documents. Each Borrower hereby covenants that such Borrower will continue to keep informed of other Borrowers’ financial condition, the financial condition of guarantors and of all other circumstances which bear upon the risk of nonpayment or nonperformance of the Obligations.
(d) The provisions of this Section 2.23 are made for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, Lenders and their respective successors and assigns, and may be enforced by it or them from time to time against any or all Borrowers as often as occasion therefor may arise and without requirement on the part of any such the Administrative Agent, Lenders, successor or assign first to marshal any of its or their claims or to exercise any of its or their rights against any Borrower or to exhaust any remedies available to it or them against any Borrower or to resort to any other source or means of obtaining payment of any of the Obligations hereunder or to elect any other remedy. The provisions of this Section 2.23 shall remain in effect until all of the Obligations shall have been paid in full or otherwise fully satisfied and all Commitments have terminated. If at any time, any payment, or any part thereof, made in respect of any of the Obligations, is rescinded or must otherwise be restored or returned by the Administrative Agent or any Lender upon the insolvency, bankruptcy or reorganization of any Borrower, or otherwise, the provisions of this Section 2.23 will forthwith be reinstated in effect, as though such payment had not been made.
(e) Each Borrower hereby agrees that it will not enforce any of its rights of contribution or subrogation, or assert any claim, against any other Borrower with respect to any Indebtedness or other liabilities owing to it from another Borrower, any liability incurred by it hereunder or under any of the other Loan Documents, any payments made by it to the Administrative Agent or Lenders with respect to any of the Obligations or any collateral security therefor until such time as all of the Obligations have been paid in full in cash and, in the event of any insolvency, bankruptcy, receivership, liquidation, examination, reorganization or other similar proceeding under the laws of any jurisdiction relating to any Borrower, its debts or its assets, whether voluntary or involuntary, all such Obligations shall be paid in full in cash before any payment or distribution of any character, whether in cash, securities or other property, shall be made to any other Borrower therefor. If, notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, a Borrower shall collect, enforce or receive any amounts in respect of such Indebtedness or liability, such amounts shall be collected, enforced and received by such Borrower as trustee for the Administrative Agent, and such Borrower shall deliver any such amounts to the Administrative Agent for application to the Obligations in accordance with the priority of payments set forth in Section 2.07.
SECTION 2.24. Partial Reduction of Commitments. The Borrowers may, at their option, from time to time reduce the Aggregate Commitments, upon prior written notice delivered to the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent (with a copy to each Lender) not later than 12:00 p.m. (New York City time) three (3) Business Days prior to the date of such reduction; provided that (i) each reduction of the Aggregate Commitments shall be in an amount equal to $10,000,000, or in increments of $1,000,000 above $10,000,000 and (ii) the Borrowers shall not reduce the Aggregate Commitments if, after giving effect to any concurrent prepayment of the Loans in accordance with Section 2.06(a), the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance would exceed the Aggregate Commitment. Each such notice shall specify (i) the amount of the reduction in the Aggregate Commitment and (ii) the Business Day on which such reduction shall occur.
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SECTION 2.25. Actions and Events Outside of Lenders’ and Agents’ Control. None of the Lenders, Servicing Agents or the Administrative Agent shall be liable in any way to any Relevant Party or third party for any such Lender’s, Servicing Agent’s or the Administrative Agent’s failure to perform or delay in performing under the Loan Documents (and the Administrative Agent or any Lender or Servicing Agent may suspend or terminate all or any portion of the Administrative Agent’s or such Lender’s or Servicing Agent’s obligations under the Loan Documents during any such period) if such failure to perform or delay in performance results directly or indirectly from any act of God, strike, lockout, boycott, blockade, riot, act of war, terrorism, rebellion, insurrection, epidemic, pandemic, quarantine, national emergency, fire, communication line failure, computer virus, computer hardware or software failure, malware or ransomware attack, power failure, earthquake, unavailability of the Federal Reserve Bank wire or telex system, unavailability of any securities clearing system, or any other similar cause or event beyond the reasonable control of Administrative Agent, such Lender or such Servicing Agent. No “Default” or “Event of Default” shall be deemed to have occurred hereunder as a result of the failure of a Loan Party to make payment for an obligation that such Lender, Servicing Agent or the Administrative Agent is required to satisfy through an application of funds on deposit in an Account in accordance with Section 2.07 or Article VI and such Lender, Servicing Agent or the Administrative Agent fails to so pay as the result of any event described in the foregoing sentence, and the performance by any Loan Party of its obligations under this Agreement shall be extended day-for-day by each day that such Loan Party is unable to so perform hereunder directly as the result of such Lender, Servicing Agent or the Administrative Agent failing to perform hereunder as the result of any event described in the foregoing sentence.
SECTION 2.26. BRG Restructuring. Subject to the satisfaction of each of the BRG Restructuring Conditions on or prior to the BRG Restructuring Effective Date, on the BRG Restructuring Effective Date (i) the Initial BRG Sponsor shall be automatically released from the BRG Sponsor Guaranty and from liability under any obligations applicable to the BRG Sponsor under this Agreement, the Environmental Indemnity and the other Loan Documents, and (ii) the BRG Replacement Sponsor (and not the Initial BRG Sponsor) shall be solely responsible for complying with the Sponsor Financial Covenants applicable to the BRG Sponsor and for any and all other obligations applicable to the BRG Sponsor under this Agreement, the Environmental Indemnity and the other Loan Documents, and each reference to the BRG Sponsor under the this Agreement, the Environmental Indemnity and/or under any of the Loan Documents shall be deemed to instead refer to and be the sole responsibility of the Replacement BRG Sponsor, including pursuant to BRG Sponsor Replacement Documents. From and after the BRG Restructuring Effective Date (subject only to compliance with the BRG Restructuring Conditions), (x) the Initial BRG Sponsor shall have no obligations or liabilities whatsoever to the Lenders including but not limited to under the Loan Documents, and (y) all references herein or under any of the Loan Documents to “BRG Sponsor” shall instead mean and refer to the Replacement BRG Sponsor and not to Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc.
ARTICLE III
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT
SECTION 3.01. Conditions Precedent to Effectiveness. The following shall be conditions precedent to the effectiveness of this Agreement:
(a) the Lenders shall have received each of the documents, instruments, legal opinions and other agreements that are required to be delivered on or prior to the date hereof, together with all fees due and payable on the date hereof and which are invoiced or estimated at least two (2) Business Days prior to the Closing Date;
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(b) the absence of (i) any change, occurrence, or development that could, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the business condition (financial or otherwise), operation or performance of any Relevant Party, (ii) any material adverse change in or material disruption of conditions in the financial, banking or capital markets; (iii) [reserved]; and (iv) any change which could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the value or marketability of the transactions contemplated by the Loan Documents or any security derived in whole or in part therefrom;
(c) each Lender shall have completed satisfactory review of UCC, lien, judgment, litigation, bankruptcy and name variation search reports naming each Loan Party from the appropriate offices in relevant jurisdictions;
(d) each Lender shall have completed satisfactory review of all material agreements, including the Existing Management Agreements and the related Assignment of Management Agreements, the Interest Rate Cap Agreement and all other documents, agreements or other instruments material to any Property or Borrowers’ interest therein and approved each of the foregoing;
(e) each Lender and its counsel shall have completed their due diligence review of the financial, business, operations, assets, liabilities, corporate, capital, environmental, legal and management structure and contractual obligations of the Loan Parties and the Replacement BRG Sponsor, which review shall have provided the Administrative Agent and each Lender with results and information which, in the judgment of such Person, are satisfactory to permit the Administrative Agent and each Lender to enter into the financing transactions contemplated hereby;
(f) (i) upon the reasonable request of any Lender made at least ten (10) days prior to the Closing Date, the Borrowers shall have provided to such Lender the documentation and other information so requested in connection with applicable “know your customer” and anti-money laundering rules and regulations, including the Anti-Money Laundering Laws, in each case at least five (5) days prior to the Closing Date and (ii) at least five (5) days prior to the Closing Date, any Borrower that qualifies as a “legal entity customer” under the Beneficial Ownership Regulation shall, upon any Lender request, deliver a Beneficial Ownership Certification in relation to such Borrower;
(g) each Lender shall have received all necessary credit approvals in order to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; and
(h) the Relevant Parties shall have delivered each of the BRG Sponsor Replacement Documents.
SECTION 3.02. Conditions Precedent to Borrowings of Property Loans. Each Property Loan made by the Lenders to any Borrower, shall be subject to the conditions precedent that on the date of each Borrowing of Property Loans, each of the following shall be true and correct both before and immediately after giving effect to such Borrowing:
(a) the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent shall have received a completed Borrowing Request for such Property Loan which shall (A) specify (1) the amount of the requested Borrowing, (2) the type of the requested Borrowing (i.e., Property Loan for an Eligible Property), (3) the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance after giving effect to such Borrowing, (4) the proposed Borrowing Date, and (5) the account of the Borrowers to which the proceeds of such Borrowing are to be remitted and (B) be accompanied by a duly completed Properties Schedule to such Borrowing Request which sets forth the required information regarding the Pending Advance Properties that are the subject of such Borrowing Request substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit H-1 or Exhibit H-2, as applicable;
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(b) the principal amount of the Property Loan requested shall not be in excess of the amount permitted by Section 2.01(a);
(c) the Borrowers shall have posted via a data site accessible to the Calculation Agent all necessary information to generate the calculations and reports contemplated under Sections 2.01(a) and 2.02(a);
(d) the satisfaction of each other condition precedent set forth in Section 2.01(a);
(e) the BPO Value, the Purchase Price, Underwritten Net Cash Flow, Scheduled Renovation Work (if applicable) and Reserves for each Pending Advance Property under the Borrowing Request for the Property Loan and each Financed Property shall have been determined in accordance with this Agreement;
(f) all amounts required to have been deposited in any Reserve Account (including the Renovation Reserves, if applicable) shall have been deposited or will be deposited upon the making of such Property Loan, as required by this Agreement;
(g) the Diligence Agent shall have (i) determined the BPO Value and items described in clause (i) of the definition of Purchase Price of each Pending Advance Property, (ii) confirmed the taxes, insurance and Rents to be paid in respect of each Pending Advance Property, (iii) completed a satisfactory due diligence review and inspection of each Pending Advance Property and a satisfactory review of each Property File related thereto and (iv) delivered to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders a Diligence Agent Certification in respect of each Pending Advance Property, free and clear of any calculation exceptions;
(h) The Administrative Agent shall have received a certification in the Initial Borrowing Request on behalf of the applicable Borrower(s) that (i) the complete Property File for each Property being financed with the proceeds of such Property Loan has been delivered to the Administrative Agent by delivery to the online data room pursuant to Section 5.01(t) and (ii) the Completion Requirements in respect of each Pending Renovation Advance Property that is the subject of such Borrowing have been met (the “Completion Requirements Certification”), and stating the Actual Renovation Expenses in respect of each such Pending Renovation Advance Property in the applicable Properties Schedule and providing a copy of the Eligible Lease in respect of each such Pending Renovation Advance Property as part of the Property File;
(i) with respect to each Pending Advance Property that is, or that is located on, an Approval Requirement Asset, the Borrowers shall have received the written approval of such Approval Requirement Asset from the Administrative Agent;
(j) with respect to each Pending Advance Property, a mortgagee’s Title Insurance Policy in an amount equal to or greater than the Allocated Loan Amount with respect to such Pending Advance Property issued by a Qualified Title Insurance Company with no title exceptions other than Permitted Liens, and with such endorsements available in the relevant jurisdiction as Administrative Agent shall require, in all respects in form and substance as reasonably acceptable to Administrative Agent;
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(k) with respect to each Property Loan made after the Closing Date, not more than five percent (5%) of the sum of the Financed Properties and all Pending Advance Properties (by number) with respect to which such Borrowing Request is made shall be comprised of condominiums;
(l) each Pending Advance Property with respect to which such Borrowing Request is made shall have an initial BPO Value greater than or equal to $75,000; provided, that not more than fifteen percent (15%) of the sum of the Financed Properties and all Pending Advance Properties (by number) with respect to which such Borrowing Request is made shall have an initial BPO Value greater than or equal to $75,000 but less than $125,000;
(m) the Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower Representative certifying on behalf of the applicable Borrower(s) that each Pending Advance Property is an Eligible Property on the date of such Borrowing;
(n) the Administrative Agent shall have received (i) an HOA Certificate in respect of each Pending Advance Applicable HOA State and (ii) an HOA Opinion in respect of each state in which a Pending Advance Property is located that is not a Covered State as of the applicable Borrowing Date;
(o) the representations and warranties contained in the Loan Documents are true and correct in all respects for representations and warranties qualified as to materiality, and true and correct in all material respects for representations and warranties not qualified as to materiality, before and after giving effect to the Borrowing to take place on such Borrowing Date and to the application of proceeds therefrom, on and as of such day as though made on and as of such date (unless such representation or warranty expressly relates to an earlier date in which case such representation or warranty shall be true and correct as of such earlier date);
(p) no event has occurred and is continuing, or would result from such Borrowing, which constitutes a Default or an Event of Default hereunder; and
(q) the absence of any change, occurrence, or development that, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect
SECTION 3.03. Conditions Precedent to Borrowings of Renovation Loans. Each Renovation Loan made by the Lenders to any Borrower, shall be subject to the conditions precedent that on the date of each Borrowing of Renovation Loans, each of the following shall be true and correct both before and immediately after giving effect to such Borrowing:
(a) the Administrative Agent and the Calculation Agent shall have received a completed Borrowing Request for such Renovation Loan which shall (A) specify (1) the amount of the requested Borrowing, (2) the type of the requested Borrowing (i.e., Renovation Loan), (3) the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance after giving effect to such Borrowing, (4) the proposed Borrowing Date, and (5) the account of the Borrowers to which the proceeds of such Borrowing are to be remitted and (B) be accompanied by a duly completed Properties Schedule to such Borrowing Request which sets forth the required information regarding the Pending Renovation Advance Properties that are the subject of such Borrowing Request substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit H-1 or Exhibit H-2, as applicable;
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(b) the principal amount of the Renovation Loan requested shall not be in excess of the amount permitted by Section 2.01(b);
(c) the Borrowers shall have posted via a data site accessible to the Calculation Agent all necessary information to generate the calculations and reports contemplated under Sections 2.01(b) and 2.02(b);
(d) the satisfaction of each other condition precedent set forth in Section 2.01(b);
(e) the BPO Value, the Purchase Price, Underwritten Net Cash Flow, Actual Renovation Expenses and Reserves for each Pending Advance Property under the Borrowing Request for the Renovation Loan and each Financed Property shall have been determined in accordance with this Agreement;
(f) all amounts required to have been deposited in any Reserve Account (including the Renovation Reserves, if applicable) shall have been deposited or will be deposited upon the making of such Renovation Loan, as required by this Agreement;
(g) the Diligence Agent shall have (i) confirmed the taxes, insurance and Rents to be paid in respect of each Pending Renovation Advance Property, (ii) completed a satisfactory due diligence review and inspection of each Pending Renovation Advance Property and a satisfactory review of each Property File related thereto (iii) confirmed that the Pending Renovation Advance Inspection Requirement is satisfied with respect to each Pending Renovation Advance Property and (iv) delivered to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders a Diligence Agent Certification in respect of each Pending Advance Property (or, with respect to any Pending Advance Property that is an existing Financed Property, in lieu of such Diligence Agent Certification, any confirmation of the Diligence Agent acceptable to the Administrative Agent in its good faith discretion), free and clear of any calculation exceptions;
(h) the Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower Representative certifying on behalf of the applicable Borrower(s) that the complete Property File for each Property being financed with the proceeds of such Property Loan has been delivered to the Administrative Agent by delivery to the online data room pursuant to Section 5.01(t);
(i) each Pending Renovation Advance Property that is the subject of such Borrowing shall (i) be an Eligible Property and (ii) meet all of the criteria set forth in clauses (a) through (d) of the definition of “Stabilized Property”;
(j) the Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate signed by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower Representative certifying on behalf of the applicable Borrower(s) that each Pending Renovation Advance Property is an Eligible Property on the date of such Borrowing;
(k) such Pending Renovation Advance Property shall either (i) not have been selected by the Administrative Agent for inspection pursuant to Section 3.03(g) or (ii) if selected by the Administrative Agent for inspection pursuant to Section 3.03(g), the Diligence Agent shall have confirmed compliance of such Property with the Renovation Standards;
(l) the Administrative Agent, in its reasonable discretion, (i) shall have determined that the due diligence review performed by the Diligence Agent is reasonably satisfactory and (ii) shall have been reasonably satisfied with a sample of Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments available for inspection pursuant to Section 3.03(g) and the results thereof;
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(m) the Administrative Agent shall have received such other evidence as the Administrative Agent shall reasonably request in order to confirm the facts stated in an officer’s certificate set forth in Section 3.03(h), including reasonably satisfactory inspection of such Properties if required by Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 3.03(g);
(n) [reserved];
(o) the representations and warranties contained in the Loan Documents are true and correct in all respects for representations and warranties qualified as to materiality, and true and correct in all material respects for representations and warranties not qualified as to materiality, before and after giving effect to the Borrowing to take place on such Borrowing Date and to the application of proceeds therefrom, on and as of such day as though made on and as of such date (unless such representation or warranty expressly relates to an earlier date in which case such representation or warranty shall be true and correct as of such earlier date);
(p) no event has occurred and is continuing, or would result from such Borrowing, which constitutes a Default or an Event of Default hereunder; and
(q) the absence of any change, occurrence, or development that, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
ARTICLE IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
SECTION 4.01. Representations and Warranties. Each Loan Party represents and warrants as of the Closing Date, the BRG Restructuring Effective Date and, subject to Sections 3.02(o) and 3.03(o) above, on each date a Loan is made (and on each other date provided for in the Loan Documents) as follows:
(a) Organization. Each Relevant Party has been duly organized and is validly existing with requisite power and authority to own its properties and to transact the businesses in which it is now engaged. Each Relevant Party is duly qualified to do business and in good standing in each jurisdiction where it is required to be so qualified in connection with its properties, businesses and operations, except to the extent that failure to do so could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Each Relevant Party possesses all rights, licenses, permits and authorizations, governmental or otherwise, necessary to entitle it to own its properties and to transact the businesses in which it is now engaged, except to the extent that failure to do so could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. The sole business of each Loan Party consists of performing its respective obligations under the Loan Documents and any other activities permitted for such Loan Party by Section 5.01(l)(i). The ownership interests in each Loan Party and are as set forth on the organizational chart attached hereto as Schedule 4.01.
(b) Proceedings. Each Relevant Party has taken all necessary action to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents to which it is a party. This Agreement and each other Loan Document has been duly executed and delivered by or on behalf of each Relevant Party party thereto and constitute legal, valid and binding obligations of each Relevant Party party thereto, enforceable against each such Relevant Party thereto in accordance with their respective terms, subject only to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting rights of creditors generally, and subject, as to enforceability, to general principles of equity (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or at law).
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(c) No Conflicts. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents by each Relevant Party party thereto (i) will not contravene such Relevant Party’s Constituent Documents, (ii) will not result in any violation of the provisions of any statute or any order, rule or regulation of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over any Relevant Party or any of each Relevant Party’s properties or assets, (iii) with respect to each Relevant Party, will not conflict with or result in a breach of any of the terms or provisions of, or constitute a default under the terms of any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, deed to secure debt, loan agreement, management agreement or other agreement or instrument to which any Relevant Party is a party or to, which any of each Relevant Party’s property or assets is subject, that could, individually or in the aggregate, be reasonably expected to have a Material Adverse Effect and (iv) with respect to each Relevant Party, except for Liens created under the Loan Documents, will not result in or require the creation or imposition of any Lien upon or with respect to any of the assets of any Relevant Party. Any consent, approval, authorization, order, registration or qualification of or with any such Governmental Authority required for the execution, delivery and performance by each Relevant Party of this Agreement or any other Loan Documents to which it is a party has been obtained and is in full force and effect.
(d) Litigation. There are no actions, suits or proceedings at law or in equity by or before any Governmental Authority or other court or agency now pending or to the Borrowers’ knowledge, threatened against or affecting any Relevant Party, which actions, suits or proceedings (i) involve this Agreement, the Loan Documents or the Transactions contemplated by the Loan Documents or (ii) could, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. There are no actions, suits or proceedings at law or in equity by or before any Governmental Authority or other entity that resulted in a judgment against any Loan Party that has not been paid in full that would otherwise constitute an Event of Default under Section 7.01(s).
(e) Agreements. No Relevant Party is a party to any agreement or instrument or subject to any restriction which would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. No Relevant Party is in default in the performance, observance or fulfillment of any of the obligations, covenants or conditions contained in any agreement or instrument to which it is a party which default could, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Other than the Loan Documents, no Loan Party has a material financial obligation under any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan agreement or other agreement or instrument to which any such Loan Party is a party other than the applicable Purchase Agreements, Management Agreements, agreements that relate to Renovation Expenses, agreements or instruments evidencing Permitted Liens (and agreements and instruments related to tenant improvement work thereunder or in connection therewith) and agreements or instruments evidencing any Permitted Indebtedness.
(f) Solvency. Each Relevant Party has (a) not entered into the transaction contemplated by this Agreement nor executed any Loan Document with the actual intent to hinder, delay or defraud any creditor and (b) received reasonably equivalent value in exchange for its obligations under the Loan Documents. After giving effect to the Loans, each Relevant Party is Solvent. No petition in bankruptcy has been filed against any Relevant Party in the last seven (7) years, and no Relevant Party has, in the last seven (7) years, made an assignment for the benefit of creditors or taken advantage of any insolvency act for the benefit of debtors. No Relevant Party is contemplating either the filing of a petition by it under any state or federal bankruptcy or insolvency laws or the liquidation of all or a major portion of such Person’s assets or property, and to the Borrowers’ knowledge, no Person is contemplating the filing of any such petition against it or against any Relevant Party.
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(g) Employee Benefit Plans/ERISA. Assuming no portion of the assets used by any Lender to fund any Loan constitutes the assets of an ERISA Plan (as defined below), the assets of each Sponsor and each Loan Party do not constitute “plan assets” of (a) any “employee benefit plan” (as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA) that is subject to Title I of ERISA, (b) any “plan” (as defined in Section 4975 of the Code) that is subject to Section 4975 of the Code or (c) any employee benefit plan or plan that is not subject to Title I of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code but is subject to any law, rule or regulation applicable to such Sponsor or such Loan Party which is substantially similar to the prohibited transaction provisions of Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code and which prohibits or otherwise restricts the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including, but not limited to, the exercise by the Administrative Agent or any Lender of any rights under the Loan Documents (each of clauses (a), (b) and (c), an “ERISA Plan”). Neither Sponsor nor any Loan Party sponsors or maintains any Plans or Foreign Plans and does not have any employees.
(h) Employee Benefit Matters. Each Plan (and each related trust, insurance contract or fund) is in compliance in all material respects with its terms and with all applicable laws, including ERISA and the Code. For each Plan that is intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code as currently in effect, and each trust related to any such Plan intended to be exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(a) of the Code as currently in effect, no event has taken place which could reasonably be expected to cause the loss of such qualified status and exempt status. With respect to each Plan, each Sponsor, each Loan Party and all of their respective ERISA Affiliates have satisfied the minimum funding standard under Section 412(a) of the Code and paid all required minimum contributions and all required installments on or before the due dates under Section 430(j) of the Code. Neither Sponsor, any Loan Party nor any of their respective ERISA Affiliates has filed, pursuant to Section 412(c) of the Code or Section 302(c) of ERISA, an application for a waiver of the minimum funding standard. Neither Sponsor, any Loan Party nor any of their respective ERISA Affiliates has incurred any liability to the PBGC which remains outstanding other than the payment of premiums, and there are no premium payments which have become due which are unpaid. No Plan is in “at risk” status within the meaning of Section 430(i) of the Code. There are no existing, pending or threatened claims (other than routine claims for benefits in the normal course), sanctions, actions, lawsuits or other proceedings or investigation involving any Plan to which any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates has incurred or otherwise has or could have an obligation or any liability. With respect to each Multiemployer Plan, each Sponsor, each Loan Party and all of their respective ERISA Affiliates have satisfied all required contributions and installments on or before the applicable due dates and have not incurred a complete or partial withdrawal under Section 4203 or 4205 of ERISA. No Plan Termination Event has or is reasonably expected to occur.
(i) Foreign Plan Matters. Each Foreign Plan is in compliance in all material respects with all laws, regulations and rules applicable thereto and the respective requirements of the governing documents for such plan. The aggregate of the liabilities to provide all of the accrued benefits under each Foreign Plan does not exceed the current fair market value of the assets held in the trust or other funding vehicle for such plan. There are no actions, suits or claims (other than routine claims for benefits) pending or threatened against any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates with respect to any Foreign Plan.
(i) Federal Reserve Regulations. No part of the proceeds of any Loan will be used for the purpose of purchasing or acquiring any “margin stock” within the meaning of Regulation U of the Board (“Margin Stock”) or for any other purpose which would be inconsistent with such Regulation U or any other Regulations of the Board, or for any purposes prohibited by Legal Requirements or by the terms and conditions of this Agreement or the other Loan Documents. None of the Collateral is comprised of Margin Stock and less than 25% of the assets of each Loan Party are comprised of Margin Stock.
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(j) Not a Foreign Person. No Relevant Party is a “foreign person” within the meaning of § 1445(f)(3) of the Code.
(k) Taxes. Each Loan Party has filed, or caused to be filed, on a timely basis (including all permitted extensions) all Tax returns (including all foreign, federal, state, local and other Tax returns) required to be filed by it, is not liable for Taxes (excluding taxes for which Tax Reserves have been established and on deposit in the Tax Reserve Account) payable by any other Person, and has paid or made adequate provisions for the payment of all Taxes (excluding taxes for which Tax Reserves have been established and on deposit in the Tax Reserve Account), assessments and other governmental charges owed and payable by such Loan Party except as permitted by Section 5.01(d). All mortgage, mortgage recording, stamp, intangible or other similar tax required to be paid by any Loan Party under applicable Legal Requirements currently in effect in connection with the execution, delivery, recordation, filing, registration, perfection or enforcement of any of the Loan Documents have been paid.
(l) Investment Company Act. No Loan Party is an “investment company”, or a company “controlled” by an “investment company”, within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and no Loan Party relies solely on the exemption from the definition of “investment company” in Section 3(c)(1) and/or 3(c)(7) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (although such exemptions may be available).
(m) Eligible Property; Approved Single Plat Development. Each (i) Financed Property is an Eligible Property and (ii) Financed Single Plat Development is an Approved Single Plat Development.
(n) Perfection Representations.
(i) the Borrower Security Agreement, the Equity Owner Security Agreement and other Loan Documents create (or, with respect to any Mortgage, shall create on the date executed and delivered) a valid and (A) in the case of all Collateral in which a security interest may be perfected by filing a financing statement under the Uniform Commercial Code, upon the filing of any Uniform Commercial Code financing statements required to be filed in connection therewith, (B) in the case of any pledged Equity Interests in certificated form, upon the delivery to the Administrative Agent of appropriate instruments and certificates, in each case properly endorsed for transfer to the Administrative Agent or in blank, (C) [reserved], (D) in the case of each Eligible Account, each Property Account and each Operating Account, upon the execution of the Securities Account Control Agreement, each Property Account Control Agreement and each Operating Account Control Agreement, as applicable, and (E) in the case of all Mortgages, upon the proper recording in the appropriate jurisdictions, perfected continuing Liens on, and, as applicable, perfected collateral assignments of, such Collateral in favor of the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent), which Liens, in each case, are prior to all other Liens except, in the case of Permitted Liens, to the extent any such Permitted Lien would have priority over the Liens in favor of the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent) pursuant to applicable law, and is enforceable as such against creditors of each Loan Party thereto, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent conveyance, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws affecting creditors’ rights and remedies generally, and to general principles of equity (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding at law or in equity);
(ii) all appropriate financing statements have been, or will in connection with the closing of the initial Loan be (assuming proper filing by the Administrative Agent), filed in the proper filing office in the appropriate jurisdictions under applicable law in order to perfect the security interest granted to the Administrative Agent hereunder in the Collateral that may be perfected by filing a financing statement;
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(iii) other than the Liens granted to the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent, as applicable) pursuant to this Agreement, the Borrower Security Agreement, the Mortgages, the Equity Owner Security Agreement or the other Collateral Documents, as applicable, no Loan Party has pledged, assigned, collaterally assigned, sold, granted a security interest in, or otherwise conveyed any of the Collateral except to the extent expressly permitted by the terms hereof or except to the extent that the same will no longer be effective as of the closing of the initial Loan;
(iv) no Loan Party has authorized the filing of and is not aware of any financing statements against any Loan Party that include a description of any portion of the Collateral other than any financing statement relating to the security interest granted to the Administrative Agent hereunder or under the Collateral Documents or that has been, or will as of the closing of the initial Loan be terminated;
(v) no instrument or document that constitutes or evidences any Collateral has any marks or notations indicating that they have been pledged, assigned or otherwise conveyed to any Person other than the Administrative Agent;
(vi) the grant of the security interests in the Collateral by each Loan Party to the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent, as applicable, for the benefit of the Secured Parties pursuant to this Agreement, the Borrower Security Agreement, the Mortgages, the Equity Owner Security Agreement or the other Loan Documents, as applicable, is in the ordinary course of business for such Loan Party and is not subject to the bulk transfer or any similar statutory provisions in effect in any applicable jurisdiction;
(vii) the chief executive office and the location of each Loan Party’s records regarding the Collateral are listed on Schedule III or at the location notified to the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 5.01(m); except as otherwise disclosed to the Administrative Agent in writing, each Loan Party’s legal name is as set forth in this Agreement and each Loan Party has not changed its name since its formation; except as otherwise listed on Schedule III, no Loan Party has tradenames, fictitious names, assumed names or “doing business as” names and each Loan Party’s federal employer identification number and organizational identification number is set forth on Schedule III; and
(viii) the Borrowers have paid all state, county and municipal recording and other similar taxes imposed upon the execution and recordation of the Mortgages that are due and owing.
(o) Information. The representations and warranties of the Loan Parties contained in the Loan Documents, and all certificates and other documents delivered to the Administrative Agent pursuant to the terms thereof (but excluding any projections, forward-looking statements, budgets, estimates and general market data as to which each Loan Party only represents and warrants that such information was prepared in good faith based on assumptions believed by it to be reasonable at the time), do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements contained herein or therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, when taken as a whole as of the date furnished, not materially misleading. The Loan Parties have not intentionally withheld any fact from the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Diligence Agent, the Paying Agent (including the Securities Intermediary), the Calculation Agent or any Lender in regard to any matter which will have or is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect.
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(p) Business. Since its formation, no Loan Party has conducted any business other than (i) entering into and performing its respective obligations under the Loan Documents to which it is a party, (ii) all activities of such Loan Party prior to the date hereof related to owning, operating and financing the Properties and the Previously-Owned Properties pursuant to the Prior Loan which has been satisfied in full prior to the date hereof (or, with respect to any Additional Loan Party, prior to the applicable Accession Date) with respect to the Loan Parties and (iii) and any other activities permitted for such Loan Party by Section 5.01(l)(i). Since the date of formation of each Loan Party, no event has occurred which would have a Material Adverse Effect. As of the Closing Date, neither Sponsor nor any Loan Party owns or holds, directly or indirectly any capital stock or equity security of, or any equity interest in, any Person other than as set forth on Schedule 4.01. As of the Closing Date, no Loan Party owns or holds, directly or indirectly, any debt security or other evidence of indebtedness of any Person, except for Permitted Investments and as otherwise contemplated by the Loan Documents. No Borrower has any Subsidiary.
(q) Management. Each Property Manager is a Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager, as applicable (including on any date that any such Property Manager begins managing Properties in a new market), and, as of the Closing Date, each Property Manager has complied in all material respects with the applicable Existing Management Agreement. A true, correct and complete copy of each Existing Management Agreement has been posted to the Administrative Agent’s online data room pursuant to Section 5.01(t). The ownership, leasing, management and collection practices used by each Loan Party, Property Manager and sub property manager, as applicable, with respect to the Financed Properties have been, to the knowledge of the Borrowers, proper, customary and in compliance with all applicable Legal Requirements, and all necessary licenses, permits and regulatory requirements pertaining thereto have been obtained and remain in full force and effect, in each case, except to the extent that failure to obtain could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. The Loan Parties have implemented appropriate processes and procedures to comply with the federal Fair Housing Act of 1986 and other applicable non-discrimination Legal Requirements and, without limitation of the foregoing, the leasing, management and collection practices (including the determination of Rents and eviction procedures) used by each Loan Party, and property managers and sub contract managers, in respect of any Section 8 Housing Tenants with respect to any Properties are and have been no less favorable to such Section 8 Housing Tenants than the leasing, management and collection practices (including the determination of Rents and eviction procedures) applicable to similarly situated Tenants that are not Section 8 Housing Tenants.
(r) Event of Default. No Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing.
(s) Compliance with Legal Requirements. Each Loan Party is in compliance with all applicable Legal Requirements, except to the extent that could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. No Loan Party is in default or violation of any order, writ, injunction, decree or demand of any Governmental Authority, except for any default or violation that could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. No Loan Party has failed to comply with any Environmental Law or to obtain, maintain or comply with any permit, license or other approval required under any Environmental Law, or has otherwise become subject to any Environmental Liability, except to the extent that such failure or liability could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Each Loan Party and all Affiliates thereof are in compliance with all applicable anti-bribery and corruption laws and regulations, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 and the U.K. Bribery Act 2010 (collectively, “Anti-Corruption Laws”). No Loan Party or Affiliate thereof has made, offered, promised or authorized a payment of money or anything else of value (i) in order to assist in obtaining or retaining business for or with, or directing business to, any foreign official, foreign political party, party official or candidate for foreign political office, (ii) to any foreign official, foreign political party, party official or candidate for foreign political office, or (iii) with the intent to induce the recipient to misuse his or her official position to direct business wrongfully to such Loan Party or Affiliate thereof or any other Person, in violation of any Anti-Corruption Laws.
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(t) Insurance. The Loan Parties have obtained and delivered to the Administrative Agent certificates evidencing the Policies required to be maintained under Section 5.04. All such Policies are in full force and effect. No claims have been made that are currently pending, outstanding or otherwise remain unsatisfied under any such Policies with respect to any Property that could, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. With respect to any Policy required to be maintained under Section 5.04, there has been no act or omission by any Loan Party, or to the Borrowers’ knowledge, any other Person, that that would impair the coverage of such Policy with respect to any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, the benefits of any endorsement thereto or the validity and binding effect of either in any material respect.
(u) Interest Rate Cap.
(i) Each Interest Rate Cap Agreement constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of one or more of the Borrowers, enforceable against each such Borrower in accordance with its terms, subject only to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting rights of creditors generally, and subject, as to enforceability, to general principles of equity (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or at law).
(ii) The Rate Cap Collateral is free and clear of all claims or security interests of every nature whatsoever, except such as are created pursuant to this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, and the Borrowers have the right to pledge and grant a security interest in the same as herein provided without the consent of any other Person other than any such consent that has been obtained and is in full force and effect.
(iii) The Rate Cap Collateral has been duly and validly pledged hereunder. All consents and approvals required to be obtained by the Borrowers for the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement have been obtained.
(iv) Giving effect to the aforesaid grant and assignment to the Administrative Agent, the Administrative Agent has, as of the date of this Agreement, and as to Rate Cap Collateral acquired from time to time after such date, shall have, a valid, and upon proper filing of any UCC financing statement required to be filed in connection therewith, perfected and continuing first priority lien upon and security interest in the Rate Cap Collateral; provided that no representation or warranty is made with respect to the perfected status of the security interest of the Administrative Agent in the proceeds of Rate Cap Collateral consisting of “cash proceeds” or “non-cash proceeds” as defined in the UCC except if, and to the extent, the provisions of Section 9-315 of the UCC shall be complied with.
(v) Except for financing statements filed or to be filed in favor of the Administrative Agent as secured party, there are no financing statements under the UCC covering any or all of the Rate Cap Collateral and the Borrowers shall not, without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent, until the Final Collection Date, execute and file in any public office, any enforceable financing statement or statements covering any or all of the Rate Cap Collateral, except financing statements filed or to be filed in favor of the Administrative Agent as secured party.
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(v) Patriot Act Compliance.
(i) Each Borrower will comply with the Patriot Act, Anti-Money Laundering Laws and all applicable requirements of Governmental Authorities having jurisdiction over Borrower and/or the Property, including those relating to money laundering and terrorism.
(ii) Neither any Borrower nor any of its Affiliates (i) is or will be a Person listed on any Government Lists, (ii) is or will be a Person listed in the annex to, or otherwise to be subject to the prohibitions of, Presidential Executive Order No. 13224 (Sept. 23, 2001) (“Executive Order 13224”), or subject to any other similar prohibitions contained in the rules and regulations of OFAC or in any enabling legislation or other executive orders in respect thereof, (iii) is a Person that has been previously or will be indicted for or convicted of any felony involving a crime or crimes of moral turpitude or for any Patriot Act Offense, or (iv) is a Person that is currently or will be under investigation by any Governmental Authority for any Patriot Act Offense or other alleged criminal activity (any Person described in any of the foregoing clauses (i)-(iv) a “Proscribed Person”). For purposes hereof, the term “Patriot Act Offense” means any violation of the criminal laws of the United States of America or of any of the several states, or that would be a criminal violation if committed within the jurisdiction of the United States of America or any of the several states, relating to terrorism or the laundering of monetary instruments, including any offense under any Anti-Money Laundering Laws. “Patriot Act Offense” also includes the crimes of conspiracy to commit, or aiding and abetting another to commit, a Patriot Act Offense. For purposes hereof, the term “Government Lists” means (1) the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons Lists and any replacement or other lists maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control or by any successor thereto (“OFAC”), (2) any other list of terrorists, terrorist organizations or narcotics traffickers maintained pursuant to any of the Rules and Regulations of OFAC, and (3) any similar lists maintained by the United States Department of State, the United States Department of Commerce or any other Governmental Authority or pursuant to any Executive Order of the President of the United States of America.
(iii) At all times throughout the term of each Loan, including after giving effect to any Transfers permitted pursuant to the Loan Documents, (i) none of the funds or other assets of any Borrower or any other Loan Party shall constitute property of, or shall be beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by any Person subject to trade restrictions under United States law, including, but not limited to, the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. §§ 1701 et seq., as amended, The Trading with the Enemy Act, 50 U.S.C. App. 1 et seq., as amended, and each of the foreign assets control regulations of the United States Treasury Department (31 CFR, Subtitle B, Chapter V, as amended), the Patriot Act, Executive Order 13224, and any legislation, executive orders and rules and regulations, enabling or promulgated under any of the foregoing (each, an “Embargoed Person”), with the result that the investment in such Borrower or such other Loan Party, as applicable (whether directly or indirectly), would be prohibited by law, or any Loan made by Lenders would be in violation of law, (ii) no Embargoed Person or other Prohibited Person shall have any interest of any nature whatsoever in any Borrower or any other Loan Party, as applicable, with the result that the investment in any Borrower or any other Loan Party, as applicable (whether directly or indirectly), would be prohibited by law or any Loan would be in violation of law, and (iii) none of the funds of any Borrower or any other Loan Party, as applicable, shall be derived from any unlawful activity with the result that the investment in such Borrower or such other Loan Party, as applicable (whether directly or indirectly), would be prohibited by law or any Loan would be in violation of law.
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(iv) At the time the applicable Borrower first entered into a Lease with each Tenant (excluding an in-place Lease with a Carry-Over Tenant, but including a new Lease with any such Carry-Over Tenant), no such Tenant was a Proscribed Person or an Embargoed Person.
(w) Beneficial Ownership Certification. The information in the Beneficial Ownership Certification delivered by the Borrowers (i) on or prior to the Closing Date is true and correct at all times prior to the BRG Restructuring Effective Date, and (ii) on or prior to the BRG Restructuring Effective Date in satisfaction of the relevant BRG Restructuring Condition is true and correct at all times.
(x) Prior Loan. Each holder of a Prior Loan has received, on or prior to the Closing Date (or, with respect to any Additional Loan Party, the applicable Accession Date), the full amount due and owing by the Loan Parties with respect to the Prior Loan as of the Closing Date or the applicable Accession Date, and a complete discharge and release of each applicable Loan Party from the Prior Loan (other than environmental and other limited and customary indemnity obligations and certain contingent liabilities that survive termination of the Prior Loans). The representations and warranties of the applicable Loan Parties in each Recycled Entity Certificate are true and correct in all material respects as of the date thereof.
(y) No Illegal Activity. No portion of any Property has been or will be purchased with proceeds of any illegal activity and to the best of Borrowers’ knowledge, there are no illegal commercial activities or commercial activities relating to controlled substances at such Property (including, without limitation, any growing, distributing and/or dispensing of marijuana for commercial purposes, medical or otherwise, for so long as the foregoing is a violation of a Legal Requirement of any applicable Governmental Authority).
(z) Flood Insurance. With respect to each Financed Property and Financed Single Plat Development for which the Borrower has recorded, or delivered for recording, a Mortgage, as of the date such Mortgage is sent for recording, the related Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, as applicable: (i) has flood insurance coverage that meets the requirements of Section 5.04(i); or (ii) does not require such coverage due to the geographic location of such Financed Property and the requirements of the Flood Insurance Laws.
ARTICLE V
COVENANTS
SECTION 5.01. Affirmative Covenants of the Loan Parties. From the Closing Date until the Final Collection Date, each Loan Party will comply with the following covenants:
(a) Use of Proceeds. The Loan Parties will use the proceeds of the Loans solely to capitalize the acquisition, renovation, rehabilitation, maintenance and leasing of Eligible Properties (including any Properties that fail to qualify as Eligible Properties but that are subject to an ongoing Cure Period) by the Borrowers, activities incidental thereto, and for the payment of the Loans and all fees, costs and expenses described in this Agreement and the other Loan Documents and for all other permitted corporate purposes of the Loan Parties, including making Restricted Junior Payments which are in compliance with Section 5.05(m). The Loan Parties will not, directly or indirectly, knowingly use the proceeds of the Borrowings or knowingly lend, contribute or otherwise make available such proceeds to any subsidiary, affiliate, joint venture partner or other Person: (i) for the purpose of financing or facilitating any activity that would violate applicable Anti-Corruption Laws or Anti-Money Laundering Laws or to engage in any dealings or transactions prohibited by Sanctions; or (ii) to fund or facilitate, directly or indirectly, any activities or business of or with any Person who, at the time of such funding or facilitation, is (a) the subject of Sanctions or (b) located, organized, or resident in any country or territory that is the subject of comprehensive territorial Sanctions; or (iii) in any other manner that will result in a violation of Sanctions by any Person (including any party to this Agreement).
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(b) Compliance with Laws, Etc. The Loan Parties shall do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve, renew and keep in full force and effect their rights, required licenses and permits and to comply in all material respects with all Legal Requirements applicable to the Loan Parties, except where the failure to do so could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. The Loan Parties shall do or cause to be done all things necessary to ensure that each Property (including the leasing and intended use thereof) complies with all applicable Legal Requirements, including building and zoning ordinances and codes and all certifications, permits, licenses and approvals, including certificates of completion and occupancy permits, required for the legal leasing, use, occupancy, habitability and operation of such Property, except to the extent the applicable Borrower has deposited in the Special Reserves Account adequate reserves in respect of any related potential fines or penalties and except as would not reasonably be expected to have an Individual Material Adverse Effect with respect to such Property. The Loan Parties shall promptly perform all of the Scheduled Renovation Work on Financed Properties constituting Non-Stabilized Properties in compliance with all applicable Legal Requirements except to the extent such non-compliance would not result in an Individual Material Adverse Effect with respect to such Non-Stabilized Property.
(c) Preservation of Existence. Each Loan Party shall (i) observe all procedures required by its Constituent Documents and preserve and, except in connection with any merger or consolidation permitted under this Agreement, maintain its corporate existence in the jurisdiction of its organization, and (ii) qualify and remain qualified in good standing (where relevant) as a foreign limited liability company in each other jurisdiction where the nature of its business requires such qualification and to the extent such concept exists in such jurisdiction and except, in the case of clause (ii), where the failure to be so qualified could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
(d) Taxes and Other Charges. Each Loan Party shall file, cause to be filed or obtain an extension of the time to file, all Tax returns and reports required by law to be filed by it and will promptly pay or cause to be paid all Taxes and governmental charges at any time owing by it prior to the same becoming delinquent, and shall promptly pay for all utility services provided to the Properties (other than any such utilities which are, pursuant to the terms of any Lease, required to be paid by the Tenant thereunder directly to the applicable service provider) prior to the same becoming delinquent; provided that such Loan Party may contest in good faith any such Taxes, assessments and other charges and, in such event, may permit the Taxes, assessments or other charges so contested to remain unpaid during any period, including appeals, when a Loan Party is in good faith contesting the same so long as (i) unless the amount in dispute has previously been paid, the applicable Loan Party has set aside on its books (and, with respect to any Borrower, in the Special Reserves Account) adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP, and the non-payment or non-discharge of such Taxes, assessments or other charges could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, (ii) enforcement of the contested Taxes, assessment or other charge is effectively stayed for the entire duration of such contest and no Lien is imposed on any Property or Collateral other than Permitted Liens, and (iii) any Taxes, assessment or other charge determined to be due, together with any interest or penalties thereon, is promptly paid as required after final resolution of such contest. Promptly upon request of the Administrative Agent, the Borrowers shall post to the Administrative Agent’s online data room receipts evidencing payment of all Taxes due in respect of such sample of Financed Properties (by number) as may be reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent, which receipts shall be reviewed by the Diligence Agent to confirm that such Taxes have been paid on a timely basis.
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(e) Litigation. The Loan Parties shall give written notice as promptly as practicable (and in any event within five (5) Business Days upon Borrowers’ knowledge thereof) to the Administrative Agent of any litigation or governmental proceedings involving any amount in excess of $100,000 pending or, to the Borrowers’ knowledge, threatened in writing against any Loan Party.
(f) Access to Properties. Subject to the rights of Tenants, the Loan Parties shall permit agents, representatives and employees of the Administrative Agent to inspect the Financed Properties, Financed Single Plat Developments and Pending Advance Properties or any part thereof at reasonable hours upon reasonable advance notice, which in the case of any Financed Property or Pending Advance Property that is then occupied by a Tenant shall not be shorter than the minimum period required by applicable law.
(g) Perform Loan Documents. Each Loan Party shall, in a timely manner, observe, perform and satisfy all the terms, provisions, covenants and conditions of the Loan Documents executed and delivered by, or applicable to, the Loan Party, and shall pay when due all costs, fees and expenses of the Administrative Agent (including the fees, costs and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) of the Diligence Agent, Calculation Agent and Paying Agent) and any Lender, to the extent required under the Loan Documents executed and delivered by, or applicable to, the Loan Party.
(h) Award and Insurance Benefits. Each Loan Party shall cooperate with the Administrative Agent in obtaining for the benefit of the Secured Parties, in accordance with the relevant provisions of this Agreement, the benefits of any Awards or Insurance Proceeds lawfully or equitably payable in connection with any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, and the Administrative Agent shall be reimbursed for any expenses incurred in connection therewith (including reasonable external attorneys’ fees and disbursements) out of such Awards or Insurance Proceeds; provided, however, that this clause (h) shall not limit any rights of the Borrowers pursuant to Section 5.04(h) to retain any such Insurance Proceeds or limit the fact that all Awards are to be deposited directly into the Collections Account.
(i) Security Interest, Further Assurances. Each Loan Party shall take all necessary action to establish and maintain, in favor of (a) the Collateral Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, a valid and perfected first (except to the extent already encumbered as described in clause (b) below) priority security interest in all Collateral described in the Mortgages (subject to Permitted Liens) and (b) the Administrative Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, a valid and perfected first priority security interest in all other Collateral, in each case as and to the full extent contemplated herein, free and clear of any Adverse Claims (including consenting to the Collateral Agent or Administrative Agent, as applicable, filing all financing statements or other similar instruments or documents necessary under the UCC (or any comparable law) of all appropriate jurisdictions to perfect the Administrative Agent’s or the Collateral Agent’s (for the benefit of the Secured Parties) security interest in the Collateral). Each Loan Party shall, at the Loan Party’s sole cost and expense, execute any and all further documents, financing statements, agreements, affirmations, waivers and instruments, and take all such further actions (including consenting to the Collateral Agent or Administrative Agent, as applicable, filing and recording of financing statements) that may be required under any applicable Legal Requirement, or that the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or the Majority Lenders may deem necessary or advisable, in order to grant, preserve, protect and perfect the validity and priority of the security interests created or intended to be created hereby or by the Collateral Documents or the enforceability of any guaranty or other Loan Document.
(j) Keeping of Records and Books of Account. Each Loan Party shall maintain and implement, or cause to be maintained and implemented, administrative and operating procedures (including an ability to recreate records regarding the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments in the event of the destruction of the originals thereof) and keep and maintain, or cause to be kept and maintained, all documents, books, records and other information reasonably necessary for the collection of all Rents and other Collections and payment of its obligations, and in which timely entries are made in accordance with GAAP. Such books and records shall include, without limitation, records adequate to permit the identification of each Financed Property and each Financed Single Plat Development and all Collections relating thereto.
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(k) Collections; Security Deposits. Each Loan Party shall:
(i) Instruct (or instruct and cause each Property Manager to instruct) each Tenant of a Financed Property to deposit all Rents (excluding all security deposits) paid electronically directly to a Rent Collection Account or to otherwise mail payments by check to such Property Manager, which shall cause all such Rents (excluding all security deposits) received by such Property Manager with respect to the Financed Properties to be deposited directly, and in any event within three (3) Business Days of receipt, to a Rent Collection Account (provided that, for the avoidance of doubt, new payment instructions or conversions to new payment instructions of any Tenants of Financed Properties, shall be to either electronic payments or lockbox payments);
(ii) Deposit or instruct and cause each Property Manager to deposit all amounts received from time to time in any Rent Collection Account into the Collection Account no later than the 7th and 25th day of each calendar month;
(iii) Deposit or instruct and cause each Property Manager to deposit security deposits with respect to all Financed Properties directly to a Security Deposit Account of the relevant Borrower;
(iv) Deposit or cause any escrow agent for the Refinancing or Transfer of any Financed Property to deliver all Refinancing Proceeds or Transfer Proceeds, as applicable, in accordance with Section 2.16(a)(iv);
(v) Deposit or cause to be deposited all other Collections to the Collection Account;
(vi) Cause all Rent Collections Accounts, and use commercially reasonable efforts (to the extent permitted by applicable law and in accordance with the applicable Lease (provided that, for Leases executed after the Closing Date, the Loan Parties shall ensure such Lease permits the Loan Parties)) to cause all Security Deposit Accounts, to be subject at all times to a Property Account Control Agreement;
(vii) Cause each Operating Account to be at all times subject to an Operating Account Control Agreement; and
(viii) Cause the Collection Account, Reserve Accounts and Disbursement Account to be subject at all times to the Securities Account Control Agreement.
(l) Special Purpose Entity/Separateness.
(i) The Loan Parties shall each be and continue to be a Special Purpose Entity subject to a limited liability company agreement, the form of which was approved by the Administrative Agent in writing prior to the Closing Date with respect to the Loan Parties as of the Closing Date.
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(ii) The Loan Parties will comply in all material respects with all of the stated facts and assumptions made with respect to the Loan Parties in the Insolvency Opinion. Each entity other than a Loan Party with respect to which an assumption is made or a fact stated in the Insolvency Opinion will comply in all material respects with all of the assumptions made and facts stated with respect to it in the Insolvency Opinion.
(iii) The Loan Parties shall provide the Administrative Agent with five (5) Business Days’ prior written notice prior to the removal of an Independent Director of a Loan Party and the Loan Parties shall not remove or permit the removal of any such Independent Director except as permitted under the organizational documents of the Loan Parties as of the Closing Date or Accession Date, as applicable, or as modified from time to time in accordance with this Agreement.
(m) Location of Records. Each Loan Party shall keep its chief place of business and chief executive office and the offices where it keeps the Records at the address(es) referred to on Schedule III or upon thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to the Administrative Agent, at any other location in the United States where all actions reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders to protect and perfect the interests of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders in the Collateral have been, or will substantially simultaneously be, taken and completed.
(n) Mortgages; Completion of Property File.
(i) Each Loan Party shall, at such Loan Party’s sole cost and expense, execute all such documents, agreements, affirmations, waivers and instruments, and take all such further actions, as are necessary to complete all Mortgage File Required Documents (including the preparation and recordation of Mortgages). The Borrowers will pay all costs associated with providing Mortgages, including, as applicable, all recordation taxes with respect to such mortgages, any costs and/or expenses related to the assembly of such Mortgages and the delivery thereof to the proper Governmental Authority for recordation, and any attorneys’ fees or fees for other professionals incurred in connection with the recordation of such Mortgages and, as applicable, shall pay the cost of providing Title Insurance Policies ensuring the priority of the Lien of such Mortgages.
(ii) In the event (a) that any Mortgages encumbering one or more Financed Properties or Financed Single Plat Developments is foreclosed in whole or in part or such Mortgages are put into the hands of an attorney for collection, suit, action or foreclosure, (b) of the foreclosure of any mortgage prior to or subsequent to the Mortgage encumbering any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development in which proceeding any Secured Party is made a party, or (c) of the bankruptcy, insolvency, rehabilitation or other similar proceeding in respect of any Borrower, Equity Owner or any other Relevant Parties or an assignment by any Borrower, Equity Owner or any other Relevant Parties for the benefit of its creditors, each Loan Party, its successors or assigns, shall be chargeable with and agree to pay all reasonable costs of collection and defense, including reasonable and documented attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses, incurred by any Secured Party in connection therewith and in connection with any appellate proceeding or post-judgment action involved therein, together with all required service or use taxes.
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(iii) All Leases executed after the Closing Date shall provide that they are subordinate to the Lien of the Mortgage encumbering the applicable Property and that the Tenant agrees to attorn to Lender or any purchaser at a sale by foreclosure or power of sale.
(o) Ownership. Each Loan Party shall take all necessary action to vest legal and equitable title to the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments and the Collateral (as applicable) irrevocably in the applicable Borrower, free and clear of any Adverse Claims. The Borrowers shall warrant and defend (a) the title to each Financed Property and each Financed Single Plat Development and every part thereof, subject only to Permitted Liens and (b) the validity and priority of the Liens of the Mortgages on the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments, subject only to Permitted Liens, in each case against the claims of all Persons whomsoever. The Loan Parties shall reimburse the Administrative Agent for any losses, costs, damages or expenses (including reasonable external attorneys’ fees, out-of-pocket costs and expenses) incurred by the Administrative Agent if an interest in any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, other than as permitted hereunder, is claimed by another Person.
(p) Business and Operations. Each Loan Party shall, directly or through one or more Qualified Property Managers, together with, if such Qualified Property Manager elects to engage a Local Property Manager (which such Qualified Property Manager may do (or not do) in its sole discretion), one or more Local Property Managers, as applicable, continue to engage in the businesses presently conducted by it as and to the extent the same are necessary for the ownership, maintenance, sale, management, leasing and operation, transfer and refinancing of the Financed Properties and Approved Single Plat Developments; provided, however, that in the event that a Property Manager ceases to be a Qualified Property Manager or any Local Property Manager ceases to satisfy the requirements set forth in the definition thereof, as applicable, the foregoing covenant shall not be deemed to be breached if the applicable Borrower(s) shall, within sixty (60) days after the earlier of the date (A) that any Responsible Officer of any Relevant Party becomes aware of such failure of such Property Manager to be a Qualified Property Manager or any such Local Property Manager to satisfy the requirements set forth in the definition thereof, as applicable, or (B) of notice thereof from the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders, terminate the applicable Management Agreement with such Property Manager and enter into a Replacement Management Agreement with a new Qualified Property Manager or, if such Qualified Property Manager has elected to engage a Local Property Manager pursuant to the terms hereof, Local Property Manager, as applicable, and provide to the Administrative Agent a copy of the Replacement Management upon the execution thereof. Each Loan Party shall qualify to do business and will remain in good standing under the laws of each jurisdiction as and to the extent the same are required for the ownership, maintenance, management and operation of the Financed Properties and Approved Single Plat Developments, except to the extent that failure to do so could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Each Borrower shall, at all times during the term of the Loans, continue to own or lease all equipment, fixtures and personal property which are necessary to operate its Financed Properties and Approved Single Plat Developments.
(q) Good Landlord Practices. Each Borrower shall (i) observe and perform the obligations imposed upon the lessor under the Leases for its Financed Properties under applicable law in a commercially reasonable manner consistent with residential real estate manager best practices and with a view towards maintaining each Financed Property in the neighborhood of which it is a part; and (ii) enforce the terms, covenants and conditions contained in such Leases upon the part of the Tenant thereunder to be observed or performed in a commercially reasonable manner.
(r) Operation of Financed Property.
(i) Each Loan Party shall cause the Financed Properties to be operated solely by one or more Qualified Property Managers together with, if such Qualified Property Manager elects to engage a Local Property Manager (which such Qualified Property Manager may do (or not do) in its sole discretion), one or more Local Property Managers, as applicable, in accordance with a related Management Agreement assigned by such Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager, as applicable (in favor of the Administrative Agent on behalf of the Secured Parties), pursuant to an Assignment of Management Agreement executed and delivered by such Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager, as applicable.
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(ii) In the event that a Management Agreement expires or is terminated (without limiting any obligation of the Loan Parties to obtain the Administrative Agent’s consent to any termination by any Loan Party of a Management Agreement or any modification of a Management Agreement providing for a change in fees or any other material modification of a Management Agreement in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Agreement), the Borrowers shall promptly enter into a Replacement Management Agreement with the applicable Property Manager, another Qualified Property Manager or Local Property Manager and provide to the Administrative Agent a copy of the same and an Assignment of Management Agreement with respect to such Replacement Management Agreement upon the execution thereof. In the event that a Property Manager ceases to be a Qualified Property Manager or any Local Property Manager ceases to satisfy the requirements set forth in the definition thereof, as applicable, the Borrowers shall, within sixty (60) days after the earlier of the date (A) that any Responsible Officer of any Relevant Party becomes aware of such failure of such Property Manager to be a Qualified Property Manager or any Loan Property Manager to satisfy the requirements set forth in the definition thereof, as applicable, or (B) of notice thereof from the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders, promptly terminate the applicable Management Agreement with such Property Manager and enter into a Replacement Management Agreement with a new Qualified Property Manager or, if such Qualified Property Manager has elected to engage a Local Property Manager pursuant to the terms hereof, Local Property Manager, as applicable, and provide to the Administrative Agent a copy of the same and an Assignment of Management Agreement with respect to such Replacement Management Agreement upon the execution thereof. Each Borrower shall: (i) promptly perform and/or observe the covenants and agreements required to be performed and observed by it under each of its Management Agreements and do all things necessary to preserve and to keep unimpaired its material rights thereunder; (ii) promptly notify the Administrative Agent of any material default under any Management Agreement of which it is aware; and (iii) enforce the performance and observance in all material respects of all of the covenants and agreements required to be performed and/or observed by each Property Manager under the related Management Agreement, in a commercially reasonable manner. Each Management Agreement shall be on such terms and conditions as are reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent (the Administrative Agent hereby acknowledges that the Existing Management Agreements are satisfactory) and each Management Agreement (or the Assignment of Management Agreement applicable thereto) shall (x) not provide for any fee to be payable to any Property Manager upon termination by the applicable Borrower of such Management Agreement (except for any accrued management or other fees that are due and payable in connection with the services provided by such Property Manager prior to such termination) and (y) provide that the Administrative Agent shall have the right to terminate and replace any Property Manager and/or terminate a Management Agreement upon thirty (30) days prior written notice (i) if an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing (after appropriate cure periods have lapsed), (ii) for fraud, gross negligence, willful misconduct, misappropriation of funds or moral turpitude by a Property Manager, (iii) if any Event of Bankruptcy shall have occurred with respect to the Property Manager, (iv) if there occurs a material breach by a Property Manager under the applicable Management Agreement (and any applicable notice and cure periods have expired), (v) if any indictment or judgment shall be entered in any investigative, administrative or judicial proceeding involving a determination that such Property Manager has violated any civil or criminal law or regulation or (vi) such Property Manager shall be suspended or otherwise prohibited by any federal, state or local housing authority or other Governmental Authority from participation or eligibility to participate in any program that is necessary in connection with such Property Manager’s performance of its obligations under its Management Agreement.
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(s) Formation of New Loan Parties. From time to time during the Initial Term, new Equity Owners and Borrowers may become a party to this Agreement and the other Loan Documents in accordance with the following: (i) any new Borrower shall be a Delaware limited liability company whose Equity Interests are wholly-owned by an Equity Owner, (ii) any new Equity Owner shall be a Delaware limited liability company one-hundred percent (100%) of the Equity Interests of which are owned, directly or indirectly, by Sponsors, (iii) the Constituent Documents of each new Equity Owner and Borrower shall be substantially identical to the Constituent Documents of each Equity Owner and Borrower, respectively, party hereto on the date hereof, or otherwise reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, (iv) such new Equity Owner or Borrower will execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent a Borrower Joinder Agreement or Guarantor Joinder Agreement, as applicable, (v) any new Loan Party will execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent new Collateral Documents, an Environmental Indemnity and, as applicable, an Equity Owner Guaranty (or a supplement to the existing Collateral Documents, Environmental Indemnity and Equity Owner Guaranty), in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Administrative Agent, (vi) in the case of any new Loan Party that was party to a Prior Loan, such new Loan Party (x) shall satisfy each of the Recycled Entity Conditions as of the date such Person becomes a Loan Party and (y) will execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent a Recycled Entity Certificate, (vii) such new Loan Party shall provide to the Administrative Agent an Additional Insolvency Opinion and a Legal Opinion regarding such new Loan Party, together with such certificates, documents, instruments and agreements as the Administrative Agent shall reasonably request, (viii) such new Loan Party shall be in compliance with each of the representations, warranties and covenants set forth in this Agreement and Loan Documents upon its joinder, including the covenants set forth in Sections 5.01(l), 10.15 and 10.17, (ix) such new Loan Party shall provide to the Administrative Agent information satisfactory to the Lenders to comply with applicable Legal Requirements with respect to customers and such other information and documentation reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent consistent with the requirements applicable to the Loan Parties party hereto on the Closing Date or referred to above and (x) Schedules 4.01, III, V and VI to this Agreement shall be updated to add relevant information relating to any new Borrower and new Equity Owner. Any document, agreement, or instrument executed by any such new Loan Party pursuant to this Section 5.01(s)(v), (vi) and/or (vii) shall be a Loan Document. Promptly following the addition of any new Borrower, the Administrative Agent shall provide written notice to the Paying Agent and the Calculation Agent of the addition of such new Borrower.
(t) Property Files. All Property Files will be maintained in an online data room established and controlled by the Administrative Agent and the Administrative Agent shall provide all Lenders with access thereto. Each Loan Party will and will cause their respective representatives to comply with all procedures established by the Administrative Agent from time to time for the delivery, maintenance and use of documents to such online data room. Without limitation of the foregoing, no Loan Party shall modify, alter or remove any document or information previously delivered to such online data room. The Loan Parties shall pay all costs, fees and expenses related to the establishment, maintenance and use of such online data room.
(u) Condition of Properties. The Loan Parties shall keep and maintain, or cause to be kept and maintained, the Financed Properties and all other Properties owned by Borrowers (with respect to each unit for any multi-unit Properties) in a good, safe and habitable condition and repair, and from time to time make, or cause to be made, all repairs, renewals, replacements, betterments and improvements thereto that are reasonably necessary or required by any Governmental Authority. The Borrowers shall not commit, permit or knowingly suffer to exist any illegal commercial activities or commercial activities relating to controlled substances at any Property (including, without limitation, any growing, distributing and/or dispensing of marijuana for commercial purposes, medical or otherwise for so long as the foregoing is a violation of a Legal Requirement of any applicable Governmental Authority).
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(v) ERISA Events. Each Borrower covenants that it shall deliver to the Administrative Agent, at Borrower’s expense, written notice of, and any requested information relating to, each ERISA Event as soon as possible, and in any event within ten (10) Business Days after the occurrence of any such ERISA Event. As soon as possible after the occurrence of a Plan Termination Event, the Borrowers shall provide the Administrative Agent with a notice of any action that the applicable Sponsor, any Loan Party and/or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates proposes to take with respect thereto, along with a copy of any notices received from or filed with the PBGC, the IRS or any Multiemployer Plan with respect to such Plan Termination Event, as applicable. Each Sponsor, each Loan Party and all of their respective ERISA Affiliates shall establish, maintain and operate all Plans to comply in all material respects with the provisions of ERISA, the Code and all applicable laws, the regulations and interpretation thereunder and the respective requirements of the governing documents for such Plans. Each Sponsor, each Loan Party and their respective ERISA Affiliates shall establish, maintain and operate all Foreign Plans to comply in all material respects with all laws, regulations and rules applicable thereto and the respective requirements of the governing documents for such plans.
(w) Estoppel Statements.
(i) Upon request of the Administrative Agent, each Borrower shall within fifteen (15) days furnish the Administrative Agent with a statement, duly acknowledged and certified, setting forth (i) the original principal amount of the Loans, (ii) the unpaid principal amount of the Loans, (iii) the Interest Rate of the Loans, (iv) the date installments of interest and/or principal were last paid, (v) any offsets or defenses to the payment of the Obligations, if any, claimed by Borrower, and (vi) that each Note, this Agreement, the Mortgages and the other Loan Documents are valid, legal and binding obligations of each Loan Party thereto and have not been modified or if modified, giving particulars of such modification; provided, however, the Borrowers shall not be required to provide such statement more often than two (2) times in any calendar year.
(ii) Subject to the terms of the applicable Major Lease or other non-residential Leases, upon request by the Administrative Agent, the Borrowers shall request an estoppel certificate from each Tenant under any Major Lease or other non-residential Leases (provided that the Borrowers shall only be required to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain an estoppel certificate from any Tenant under a Major Lease or other non-residential Leases not required to provide an estoppel certificate under its Major Lease or other non-residential Leases) in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent (it being expressly agreed that any form specified by the terms of any Major Lease or other non-residential Leases that is approved in writing by the Administrative Agent in accordance herewith or is otherwise specified in the Borrowers’ form Major Lease or other non-residential Leases reasonably approved in writing by the Administrative Agent from time to time shall be deemed to be reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent); provided, that the Borrowers shall not be required to deliver such certificates more frequently than one (1) time in any calendar year if no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing.
(x) Post-Closing.
(i) No later than ten (10) Business Days following the Closing Date (or such later date or dates as the Administrative Agent may agree in writing in its sole discretion), the Borrowers shall obtain and deliver to the Administrative Agent written confirmation of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement described in Section 5.03, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
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(ii) No later than twenty (20) Business Days following the Closing Date (or such later date or dates as the Administrative Agent may agree in writing in its sole discretion), the Borrowers shall cause the Counterparty to deliver a guaranty (if required) and counsel to the Counterparty (which may be in-house counsel of the Counterparty) to deliver a legal opinion letter, each with respect to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement delivered pursuant to clause (i) above, which guaranty and legal opinion letter shall be addressed to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, and otherwise in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
(y) Updating of Schedule V. The Borrowers shall be permitted to, and shall promptly, update from time to time Schedule V to this Agreement to list any new Replacement Management Agreements with Qualified Property Managers or Local Property Managers, as applicable, and to remove any Management Agreements replaced by such new Replacement Management Agreements.
(z) Transfer of Financed Properties to the TRS Borrowers. If any other Borrower transfers any Financed Property (provided that, in the case of any Financed Single Plat Development or any Financed Property located on a Financed Single Plat Development, any such transfer shall include all Financed Properties located on such Financed Single Plat Development) to any TRS Borrower, such TRS Borrower shall deliver to the Administrative Agent for the Property File on or before the date of such transfer: either (i) a new Title Insurance Policy (or a marked or initialed binding commitment that is effective as a Title Insurance Policy in respect of such Financed Property (or, if applicable, the related Financed Single Plat Development) naming such TRS Borrower as the fee owner of the applicable Financed Property (or, if applicable, the related Financed Single Plat Development), (ii) an endorsement to the existing Title Insurance Policy in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent naming such TRS Borrower as the fee owner of the applicable Financed Property (and, if applicable, the related Financed Single Plat Development) and indicating that such Financed Property (and, if applicable, the related Financed Single Plat Development) is not subject to any new exceptions (other than Permitted Liens) or (iii) to the extent available and applicable in the state where the applicable Property is located and customarily accepted by similarly situated lenders, evidence satisfactory to Administrative Agent in its sole discretion, that the Title Insurance Policy for each respective Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, by its terms, remains valid and in full force and effect following and notwithstanding the conveyance of the Financed Property (and the related Financed Single Plat Development, if applicable) to such TRS Borrower (with such TRS Borrower as fee owner thereof). No prepayment shall be required in connection with any transfer pursuant to this Section 5.01(z) and no Borrower shall otherwise be required to comply with Section 2.16 in connection with any such transfer.
(aa) Changes to Sponsor Constituent Documents. The Loan Parties shall, or shall cause the applicable Sponsor to, provide the Administrative Agent and each Lender with five (5) Business Days’ prior written notice of any amendment, restatement, supplement or other modification to any Constituent Documents of such Sponsor. For purposes of this clause (aa), the term “Sponsor” shall include the Replacement BRG Sponsor.
(bb) Beneficial Ownership Regulation Compliance. Promptly following any request therefor, provide information and documentation reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent or any Lender for purposes of compliance with applicable “know your customer” requirements under Anti-Money Laundering Laws, the Beneficial Ownership Regulation or other applicable anti-money laundering laws.
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(cc) Anti-Corruption Laws. Each Loan Party shall at all times maintain and enforce appropriate policies, procedures and controls to ensure compliance with all Anti-Corruption Laws.
(dd) Replacement BRG Sponsor Information. No earlier than 15 Business Days prior to and no later than one Business Day after the BRG Restructuring Effective Date, Replacement BRG Sponsor shall demonstrate to Lender’s satisfaction in good faith that Replacement BRG Sponsor is in compliance with applicable “know your customer” requirements, including under Anti-Money Laundering Laws, the Beneficial Ownership Regulation or other applicable anti-money laundering laws and under Anti-Corruption Laws and Sanctions.
SECTION 5.02. Reporting Requirements of the Loan Parties. From the Closing Date until the Final Collection Date, each Loan Party shall furnish or cause to be furnished to the Administrative Agent:
(a) Event of Default. As soon as reasonably practicable and in any event within five (5) Business Days after the Borrowers obtain knowledge of the occurrence of each Event of Default or Default (if such Default is continuing on the date of such notice), a statement of a Responsible Officer of the Borrower Representative setting forth the details of such Event of Default or Default and the action which such Loan Party is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto.
(b) Financial Reporting. The Loan Parties shall keep and maintain on a calendar year basis, in accordance with the requirements for a Special Purpose Entity set forth herein, as applicable, and GAAP (or such other consistently applied accounting basis that is reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders), proper and accurate books, records and accounts reflecting all of the financial affairs of the Loan Parties and all items of income and expense in connection with the operation on an individual basis of the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments. The Administrative Agent and each Lender shall have the right from time to time at all times during normal business hours upon reasonable notice (and, in any event, not more than twice in any calendar year for any such Person (unless an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, in which case no such restriction shall apply)) to examine such books, records, accounts, agreements, leases, instruments and other documents and the collection systems of the Loan Parties or any Property Manager at the offices of the Loan Parties, any Property Manager or any other Person maintaining such books, records and accounts and to make such copies or extracts thereof as the Administrative Agent or such Lender shall reasonably desire (except to the extent disclosure of such items is prohibited by applicable law). After the occurrence of an Event of Default, the Loan Parties shall pay any reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the Administrative Agent and each Lender to examine the Loan Parties’ and any Property Manager’s accounting records, as the Administrative Agent or such Lender shall determine to be necessary or appropriate in the protection of the Lenders’ interest. The Loan Parties will furnish the following financial reports to the Administrative Agent:
(i) as soon as available and in any event within forty five (45) days after the end of each calendar quarter commencing with the first calendar quarter ending after the Closing Date, (A) unaudited copies of the combined balance sheets, statements of operations and retained earnings, and statements of cash flows of each Equity Owner and its Subsidiaries, and (B) unaudited copies of the consolidated balance sheets, statements of operations and retained earnings, and statements of cash flows of each of the BRG Sponsor and the Peak Sponsor and those Subsidiaries of such Sponsor which are required by GAAP to be consolidated with such Sponsor, as at the end of such quarter and for the period commencing at the end of the immediately preceding calendar year and ending with the end of such quarter, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the corresponding date or period of the immediately preceding calendar year, all in reasonable detail and certified by a Responsible Officer of Borrower Representative as fairly presenting, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of such Persons as of the end of such quarter and the results of operations and cash flows of such Persons for such quarter, in accordance with GAAP applied in a manner consistent with that of the most recent audited financial statements of such Persons furnished to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes;
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(ii) as soon as available, and in any event within ninety (90) days after the end of each calendar year, (A) combined balance sheets, statements of operations and retained earnings, and statements of cash flows of each Equity Owner and its Subsidiaries, and (B) consolidated balance sheets, statements of operations and retained earnings, and statements of cash flows of each of the BRG Sponsor and the Peak Sponsor and those Subsidiaries of such Sponsor which are required by GAAP to be consolidated with such Sponsor, in each case, as at the end of such calendar year, setting forth in each case in comparative form the corresponding figures for the immediately preceding calendar year (if any), all in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP, and accompanied by a report and an opinion, prepared in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, of a Big Four accounting firm or any other independent certified public accountants of recognized national standing selected by such Person that is reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders (which opinion on such consolidated information shall be without (1) any qualification as to the scope of such audit or (2) a “going concern” or like qualification;
(iii) as soon as available, and in any event within thirty (30) days after the end of each calendar month (A) an operating statement in respect of such calendar month and a calendar year-to-date operating statement for the Borrowers on a combined basis, (B) a statement for each Financed Property showing (1) rent roll in respect of such calendar month and calendar year-to-date, (2) vacancy status, (3) security deposits maintained, (4) Tenant payment status, (5) Capital Expenditures and repairs and (6) any known violations of any Legal Requirements and (C) upon the Administrative Agent’s request, other information that is reasonably requested regarding the financial position, ongoing maintenance and results of operation of the Financed Properties (on a combined basis) during such calendar month;
(iv) simultaneously with the delivery of the financial statements required by clauses (i) and (ii) above, a certificate of a Responsible Officer of Borrower Representative stating that such Responsible Officer has reviewed the provisions of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents and has made or caused to be made under his or her supervision a review of the condition and operations of the Relevant Parties with a view to determining whether the Relevant Parties are in compliance with the provisions of this Agreement and such Loan Documents at the time of such review, and that such review has not disclosed, and the Borrowers have no knowledge of, the existence of an Event of Default or Default or, if an Event of Default or Default exists, describing the nature and period of existence thereof and the action which the Relevant Parties propose to take or have taken with respect thereto;
(v) simultaneously with the delivery of the financial statements required by clauses (i) and (ii) above, a reconciliation for the relevant period of net income of the Borrowers to Underwritten Net Cash Flow;
(vi) simultaneously with the delivery of the financial statements required by clause (i) above, a duly completed Compliance Certificate, with appropriate insertions, containing the data and calculations set forth in the form agreed to on the Closing Date and setting forth in reasonable detail a calculation of the items set forth in the definition of Sponsor Financial Covenants; and
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(vii) promptly after the end of each calendar month, monthly account statements or, to the extent not previously provided, online access to each Property Account and each Operating Account.
(c) ERISA. As soon as reasonably possible, and in any event within thirty (30) days after the Borrowers have knowledge, or with respect to any Plan or Multiemployer Plan to which any Sponsor or any of its ERISA Affiliates makes direct contributions has reason to believe, that any of the events or conditions specified below with respect to any Plan or Multiemployer Plan has occurred or exists, a statement signed by a senior financial officer of the applicable Sponsor or any Loan Party, as applicable, setting forth details respecting such event or condition and the action, if any, that such Sponsor or any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates proposes to take with respect thereto (and a copy of any report or notice required to be filed with or given to PBGC by any Sponsor, any Loan Party or an ERISA Affiliate with respect to such event or condition):
(i) any Reportable Event with respect to a Plan, as to which the PBGC has not by regulation or otherwise waived the requirement of Section 4043(a) of ERISA that it be notified within thirty (30) days of the occurrence of such event (provided that a failure to meet the minimum funding standard of Section 412 of the Code or Section 302 of ERISA, including the failure to make on or before its due date a required installment under Section 412(m) of the Code or Section 302(e) of ERISA, shall be a Reportable Event regardless of the issuance of any waivers in accordance with Section 412(d) of the Code); and any request for a waiver under Section 412(d) of the Code for any Plan;
(ii) the distribution under Section 4041(c) of ERISA of a notice of intent to terminate any Plan or any action taken by any Sponsor or any of its ERISA Affiliates to terminate any Plan;
(iii) the institution by PBGC of proceedings under Section 4042 of ERISA for the termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to administer, any Plan, or the receipt by any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates of a notice from a Multiemployer Plan that such action has been taken by PBGC with respect to such Multiemployer Plan;
(iv) the complete or partial withdrawal from a Multiemployer Plan by any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates, as applicable, that results in liability under Section 4201 or 4204 of ERISA (including the obligation to satisfy secondary liability as a result of a purchaser default) or the receipt by any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates, as applicable, of notice from a Multiemployer Plan that it is in insolvency pursuant to Section 4245 of ERISA or that it intends to terminate or has terminated under Section 4041A of ERISA;
(v) the institution of a proceeding by a fiduciary of any Multiemployer Plan against any Sponsor, any Loan Party or any of their respective ERISA Affiliates, as applicable, to enforce Section 515 of ERISA; and
(vi) failure to satisfy Section 436 of the Code.
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(d) Reporting on Adverse Effects. Promptly and in no event more than two (2) Business Days after the Borrowers obtain knowledge of any matter or the occurrence of any event concerning any Relevant Party which would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, the written statement of a Responsible Officer of Borrower Representative setting forth the details of such Material Adverse Effect and the action which such Relevant Party is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto.
(e) Defaults. Promptly and in no event more than two (2) Business Days after any Responsible Officer of any Sponsor obtains actual knowledge of any default by any Loan Party under any agreement other than the Loan Documents to which such Loan Party is a party which would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, the statement of a Responsible Officer of such Sponsor setting forth the details of such default and the action which such Loan Party is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto.
(f) HOA Matters.
(i) Not later than December 31 of each calendar year, commencing with December 31, 2022, with respect to each state that is not a Covered State as of such date and is not treated as an Applicable HOA State under this Agreement, one or more HOA Opinions. Any HOA Opinion required to be delivered pursuant to this Section 5.02(f)(i) may be aggregated with any other opinion required to be delivered to the Lenders so long as all of the states in which the Properties are located in are included in such opinion or opinions and such opinion or opinions specifically reference this Agreement and otherwise meet the requirements of this Agreement. If, with respect to any state in which a Property is located and that is not a Covered State, (i) the Borrowers fail to deliver to Agent an HOA Opinion pursuant to this Section 5.02(f)(i), the Administrative Agent may in its sole discretion designate such state an Applicable HOA State by written notice to Borrowers or (ii) any HOA Opinion delivered to Lender pursuant to this Section 5.02(f)(i) shall be materially different from any previously-delivered HOA Opinion with respect to such state and (x) such differences are not satisfactory to the Administrative Agent or (y) the Administrative Agent believes in good faith that such state is an Applicable HOA State, Administrative Agent may request in writing that Borrowers obtain a second HOA Opinion and deliver such HOA Opinion to Administrative Agent within twenty (20) Business Days of such written request and (1) if Borrowers fail to deliver such second HOA opinion to Administrative Agent or (2) if any such second HOA Opinion shall be materially different from any previously-delivered HOA Opinion and such differences are not satisfactory to Administrative Agent, the Administrative Agent may in its sole discretion designate such state an Applicable HOA State by written notice to the Borrowers. In addition, if, as a result of any such differences the Administrative Agent believes in good faith that any provisions for subordination of Liens for HOA Fees to the Lien of the Mortgages are unenforceable under the laws of an Applicable HOA State or that such Lien for HOA Fees would be entitled to Priority, the Administrative Agent may redesignate all affected HOA Properties in such Applicable HOA State as Applicable HOA Properties. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything herein to the contrary, the Administrative Agent shall not be permitted to declare a state an Applicable HOA State pursuant to this Section 5.02(f)(i), if the Administrative Agent has received a legal opinion from a nationally recognized law firm (or one with prominent standing in the applicable state or otherwise reasonably acceptable to Lender) that if delivered by the Borrowers and referencing this Agreement would have resulted in such state not being declared an Applicable HOA State.
(ii) Borrowers shall deliver Administrative Agent, within forty-five (45) days after the end of each calendar quarter, a report (the “Quarterly HOA Report”) containing the following information with respect to the Applicable HOA Properties: proof of payment of the paid HOA Fees identified in the Quarterly HOA Monthly Report (whether in the form of cancelled checks, receipts, ACH confirmations, confirmation of electronic payments or other evidence of such payment reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent) unless such proof of payment has previously been delivered (e.g. quarterly prepayments) as may reflect that as of the end of such calendar quarter, that no other amounts remain then due and payable by the Borrowers or that the Borrowers have prepaid or otherwise have a positive credit balance (whether in the form of invoices, payment coupons, account statements, assessment letters, estoppels, receipts or other evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent). The Quarterly HOA Report shall be certified by a Responsible Officer of Borrowers as true, correct and complete in all material respects.
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(f) Other Information. As soon as reasonably practicable, from time to time, such other information, documents, records or reports respecting the Financed Properties, the Financed Single Plat Developments or the conditions or operations, financial or otherwise, of the Relevant Parties as the Administrative Agent or any Lender (acting through the Administrative Agent) may from time to time reasonably request.
SECTION 5.03. Interest Rate Cap Agreement.
(a) Interest Rate Cap Agreement. One or more Borrowers shall enter into and deliver to the Administrative Agent an Interest Rate Cap Agreement (including the related Acknowledgment) no later than the Closing Date which shall be effective through the Maturity Date (as may be extended pursuant to the terms hereof) and shall thereafter maintain in effect the Interest Rate Cap Agreement through the term hereof.
(b) Covenants.
(i) The Borrowers shall comply with all of their obligations under the terms and provisions of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement. Subject to the terms hereof, provided no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Borrowers shall be entitled to exercise all rights, powers and privileges of the Borrowers under, and to control the prosecution of all claims with respect to, the Interest Rate Cap Agreement and the other Rate Cap Collateral. The Borrowers shall take all actions reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent to enforce the Borrowers’ rights under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement in the event of a default by the Counterparty thereunder and shall not waive, amend or otherwise modify any of its rights thereunder.
(ii) The Borrowers shall defend the Administrative Agent’s right, title and interest in and to the Rate Cap Collateral pledged by the Borrowers pursuant hereto or in which they have granted a security interest pursuant hereto against the claims and demands of all other Persons.
(iii) In the event of any downgrade, withdrawal or qualification of the rating of the Counterparty such that it ceases to qualify as an Approved Counterparty, the Borrowers shall replace the Interest Rate Cap Agreement with a Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement not later than ten (10) Business Days following receipt of notice from the Administrative Agent or any other Person of such downgrade, withdrawal or qualification.
(iv) In the event that a Rate Conversion has occurred, within thirty (30) days after such Rate Conversion, the Borrowers shall either (A) enter into, make all payments under, and satisfy all conditions precedent to the effectiveness of, a Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement (and in connection therewith, but not prior to Borrowers taking all the actions described in this clause (A), the Borrowers shall have the right to terminate any then-existing Interest Rate Cap Agreement) or (B) cause the then-existing Interest Rate Cap Agreement to be modified such that such then-existing Interest Rate Cap Agreement satisfies the requirements of a Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement as set forth below in the definition thereof.
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(v) In the event that the Borrowers fail to purchase and deliver to the Administrative Agent the Interest Rate Cap Agreement as and when required hereunder, the Administrative Agent may, upon five (5) Business Days prior written notice, purchase the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, and the cost incurred by the Administrative Agent in purchasing the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall be paid by the Borrowers to the Administrative Agent with interest thereon at the Default Rate from the date such cost was incurred by the Administrative Agent until such cost is paid by the Borrowers to the Administrative Agent.
(vi) The Borrowers shall not sell, assign, or otherwise dispose of, or grant a Lien on, any of the Rate Cap Collateral (except in favor of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties) or any interest therein, and any sale, assignment, mortgage, pledge or security interest whatsoever made in violation of this covenant shall be a nullity and of no force and effect, and upon demand of the Administrative Agent, shall forthwith be cancelled or satisfied by an appropriate instrument in writing.
(vii) The Borrowers shall not (i) without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and the Supermajority Lenders, modify, amend or supplement the terms of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, (ii) without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and the Supermajority Lenders, except in accordance with the terms of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement or as required by Section 5.03(b)(iii), cause the termination of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement prior to its stated maturity date, (iii) without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld), except as aforesaid, waive or release any obligation of the Counterparty (or any successor or substitute party to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement) under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, (iv) without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and the Supermajority Lenders, consent or agree to any act or omission to act on the part of the Counterparty (or any successor or substitute party to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement) which, without such consent or agreement, would constitute a default under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, (v) fail to exercise diligently each and every material right which it may have under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, (vi) take or intentionally omit to take any action or intentionally suffer or permit any action to be omitted or taken, the taking or omission of which would result in any right of offset against sums payable under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement or any defense by the Counterparty (or any successor or substitute party to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement) to payment or (vii) fail to give prompt notice to the Administrative Agent of any notice of default given by or to the Borrowers under or with respect to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, together with a complete copy of such notice.
(c) Powers of the Borrowers Prior to an Event of Default. Subject to the provisions of Section 5.03, provided no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Borrowers shall be entitled to exercise all rights, powers and privileges of the Borrowers under, and to control the prosecution of all claims with respect to, the Interest Rate Cap Agreement and the other Rate Cap Collateral.
(d) Payments. If the Borrowers at any time shall be entitled to receive any payments with respect to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, such amounts shall, immediately upon becoming payable to the Borrowers, be deposited by Counterparty within one (1) Business Day of receipt into the Collection Account in accordance with Section 5.01(k), or if paid to the Borrowers shall be deposited by the Borrowers within one (1) Business Day of receipt into the Collection Account in accordance with Section 5.01(k).
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(e) Remedies. Subject to the provisions of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, if an Event of Default shall occur and then be continuing:
(i) The Administrative Agent, subject to the consent of the Supermajority Lenders, without obligation to resort to any other security, right or remedy granted under any other agreement or instrument, shall have the right to, in addition to all rights, powers and remedies of a secured party pursuant to the UCC, at any time and from time to time, sell, resell, assign and deliver, any or all of the Rate Cap Collateral (in one or more parcels and at the same or different times) and all right, title and interest, claim and demand therein and right of redemption thereof, at public or private sale, for cash, upon credit or for future delivery, and in connection therewith the Administrative Agent, subject to the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders, may grant options and may impose reasonable conditions such as requiring any purchaser to represent that any “securities” constituting any part of the Rate Cap Collateral are being purchased for investment only, the Loan Parties hereby waiving and releasing any and all equity or right of redemption to the fullest extent permitted by the UCC or applicable law. If all or any of the Rate Cap Collateral is sold by the Administrative Agent, subject to the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders, upon credit or for future delivery, the Administrative Agent shall not be liable for the failure of the purchaser to purchase or pay for the same and, in the event of any such failure, the Administrative Agent may resell such Rate Cap Collateral. It is expressly agreed that the Administrative Agent may exercise its rights with respect to less than all of the Rate Cap Collateral, leaving unexercised its rights with respect to the remainder of the Rate Cap Collateral; provided, however, that such partial exercise shall in no way restrict or jeopardize the Administrative Agent’s right to exercise its rights with respect to all or any other portion of the Rate Cap Collateral at a later time or times.
(ii) The Administrative Agent, on behalf of the Lenders and subject to the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders, may exercise, either by itself or by its nominee or designee, in the name of the Borrowers, all of the Administrative Agent’s rights, powers and remedies in respect of the Rate Cap Collateral, hereunder and under law.
(iii) The Borrowers hereby irrevocably, in the name of the Borrowers or otherwise, authorize and empower the Administrative Agent and assigns and transfers unto the Administrative Agent, and constitutes and appoints the Administrative Agent its true and lawful attorney-in-fact, and as its agent, irrevocably, with full power of substitution for the Borrowers and in the name of the Borrowers, (i) to exercise and enforce every right, power, remedy, authority, option and privilege of the Borrowers under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, including any power to subordinate or modify the Interest Rate Cap Agreement (but not, unless an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the right to terminate or cancel the Interest Rate Cap Agreement), or to give any notices, or to take any action resulting in such subordination, termination, cancellation or modification and (ii) in order to more fully vest in the Administrative Agent the rights and remedies provided for herein, to exercise all of the rights, remedies and powers granted to the Administrative Agent in this Agreement, and the Borrowers further authorize and empower the Administrative Agent, as the Borrowers’ attorney-in-fact, and as its agent, irrevocably, with full power of substitution for the Borrowers and in the name of the Borrowers, to give any authorization, to furnish any information, to make any demands, to execute any instruments and to take any and all other action on behalf of and in the name of the Borrowers which in the opinion of the Administrative Agent may be necessary or appropriate to be given, furnished, made, exercised or taken under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, in order to comply therewith, to perform the conditions thereof or to prevent or remedy any default by the Borrowers thereunder or to enforce any of the rights of the Borrowers thereunder. These powers-of-attorney are irrevocable and coupled with an interest, and any similar or dissimilar powers heretofore given by the Borrowers in respect of the Rate Cap Collateral to any other Person are hereby revoked.
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(iv) The Administrative Agent may, without notice to, or assent by, the Borrowers or any other Person (to the extent permitted by law), but without affecting any of the Obligations, in the name of the Borrowers or in the name of the Administrative Agent, notify the Counterparty, or if applicable, any other counterparty to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, to make payment and performance directly to the Administrative Agent; extend the time of payment and performance of, compromise or settle for cash, credit or otherwise, and upon any terms and conditions, any obligations owing to the Borrowers, or claims of the Borrowers, under the Interest Rate Cap Agreement; file any claims, commence, maintain or discontinue any actions, suits or other proceedings deemed by the Administrative Agent necessary or advisable for the purpose of collecting upon or enforcing the Interest Rate Cap Agreement; and execute any instrument and do all other things deemed necessary and proper by the Administrative Agent to protect and preserve and realize upon the Rate Cap Collateral and the other rights contemplated hereby.
(v) Pursuant to the powers-of-attorney provided for above, the Administrative Agent may take any action and exercise and execute any instrument which it may deem necessary or advisable to accomplish the purposes hereof; provided, however, that the Administrative Agent shall not be permitted to take any action pursuant to said power-of-attorney that would conflict with any limitation on the Administrative Agent’s rights with respect to the Rate Cap Collateral. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administrative Agent, after the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, shall have the right and power to receive, endorse and collect all checks and other orders for the payment of money made payable to the Borrowers representing: (i) any payment of obligations owed pursuant to the Interest Rate Cap Agreement, (ii) interest accruing on any of the Rate Cap Collateral or (iii) any other payment or distribution payable in respect of the Rate Cap Collateral or any part thereof, and for and in the name, place and stead of the Borrowers, to execute endorsements, assignments or other instruments of conveyance or transfer in respect of any property which is or may become a part of the Rate Cap Collateral hereunder.
(vi) the Administrative Agent may exercise all of the rights and remedies of a secured party under the UCC with respect to the Rate Cap Collateral.
(vii) Without limiting any other provision of this Agreement or any of the Borrowers’ rights hereunder, and without waiving or releasing the Borrowers from any obligation or default hereunder, the Administrative Agent shall have the right, but not the obligation, to perform any act or take any appropriate action, as it, in its reasonable judgment, may deem necessary to protect the security of this Agreement, to cure such Event of Default or to cause any term, covenant, condition or obligation required under this Agreement or the Interest Rate Cap Agreement to be performed or observed by the Borrowers to be promptly performed or observed on behalf of the Borrowers. All amounts advanced by, or on behalf of, the Administrative Agent in exercising its rights under this Section 5.03(e)(vii) (including, but not limited to, reasonable legal expenses and disbursements incurred in connection therewith), together with interest thereon at the Default Rate from the date of each such advance, shall be payable by the Borrowers to the Administrative Agent upon demand and shall be secured by this Agreement.
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(f) Sales of Rate Cap Collateral. No demand, advertisement or notice, all of which are, to the fullest extent permitted by law, hereby expressly waived by the Borrowers, shall be required in connection with any sale or other disposition of all or any part of the Rate Cap Collateral during an Event of Default, except that the Administrative Agent shall give the Borrowers at least thirty (30) Business Days’ prior written notice of the time and place of any public sale or of the time when and the place where any private sale or other disposition is to be made, which notice the Borrowers hereby agree is reasonable, all other demands, advertisements and notices (except those required under any Loan Document) being hereby waived. To the extent permitted by law, the Administrative Agent shall not be obligated to make any sale of the Rate Cap Collateral if it shall determine not to do so, regardless of the fact that notice of sale may have been given, and, to the extent permitted by law, the Administrative Agent may without notice or publication, but subject to the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders, adjourn any public or private sale, and such sale may, without further notice (except to the extent required under any Loan Document), be made at the time and place to which the same was so adjourned. Upon each private sale of the Rate Cap Collateral during an Event of Default of a type customarily sold in a recognized market and upon each public sale, unless prohibited by any applicable statute which cannot be waived, the Administrative Agent (or its nominee or designee) may, subject to the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders, purchase any or all of the Rate Cap Collateral being sold, free and discharged from any trusts, claims, equity or right of redemption of the Borrowers, all of which are hereby waived and released to the extent permitted by law, and may make payment therefor by credit against any of the Obligations in lieu of cash or any other obligations. In the case of all sales of the Rate Cap Collateral, public or private, the Borrowers shall pay all reasonable costs and expenses of every kind for sale or delivery, including brokers’ and reasonable attorneys’ fees and disbursements and any tax imposed thereon. However, the proceeds of sale of Rate Cap Collateral shall be available to cover such costs and expenses, and, after deducting such costs and expenses from the proceeds of sale, the Administrative Agent shall apply any residue to the payment of the Obligations in the order of priority as set forth in this Agreement.
(g) Public Sales Not Possible. The Borrowers acknowledge that the terms of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement may prohibit public sales, that the Rate Cap Collateral may not be of the type appropriately sold at public sales, and that such sales may be prohibited by law. In light of these considerations, the Borrowers agree that private sales of the Rate Cap Collateral shall not be deemed to have been made in a commercially unreasonable manner by mere virtue of having been made privately.
(h) Receipt of Sale Proceeds. Upon any sale of the Rate Cap Collateral by the Administrative Agent hereunder (whether by virtue of the power of sale herein granted, pursuant to judicial process or otherwise), the receipt by the Administrative Agent or the officer making the sale or the proceeds of such sale shall be a sufficient discharge to the purchaser or purchasers of the Rate Cap Collateral so sold, and such purchaser or purchasers shall not be obligated to see to the application of any part of the purchase money paid over to the Administrative Agent or such officer or be answerable in any way for the misapplication or non-application thereof.
(i) Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement. All of the provisions of this Section 5.03 applicable to the initial Interest Rate Cap Agreement as in effect on the Closing Date shall be applicable to any Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement, including any Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement obtained in connection with the Borrowers’ exercise of any Extension Request pursuant to Section 2.08.
(j) Increases, Extensions and Replacements of Interest Rate Cap Agreement. In connection with any increase in the notional amount of the Interest Rate Cap Agreement or any extension of the term thereof which may be required by virtue of the provisions of this Section 5.03 or otherwise, or in connection with the delivery of any Replacement Interest Rate Cap Agreement, the Borrowers shall cause counsel to the Counterparty to deliver a legal opinion letter addressed to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.
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SECTION 5.04. Insurance Requirements; Casualty.
(a) Each Borrower shall obtain and maintain, or cause to be obtained and maintained, insurance for itself and all of its Properties providing at least the following coverages:
(i) comprehensive “all risk” or special causes of loss form insurance, as is available in the insurance market as of the Closing Date, including, but not limited to, loss caused by any type of windstorm (including hail) on its Properties (A) in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the “full replacement cost,” which for purposes of this Agreement shall mean actual replacement value (exclusive of costs of excavations, foundations, underground utilities and footings) subject to a minimum loss limit equal to $10,000,000 per occurrence; (B) containing an agreed amount endorsement with respect to the improvements and personal property at any Property waiving all co-insurance provisions or to be written on a no co-insurance form; and (C) providing for no deductible in excess of $25,000 (it being understood that, so long as no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (1) the Borrowers may utilize a $1,000,000 aggregate deductible stop loss subject to a $25,000 per occurrence deductible and a $25,000 maintenance deductible following the exhaustion of the aggregate, (2) the aggregate stop loss does not contain any losses arising from named windstorm, earthquake or flood, (3) the perils of named windstorm or flood shall be permitted to have a per occurrence deductible of five percent (5%) of the total insurable value of a damaged Property subject to a loss (with a minimum deductible of $250,000 per occurrence for any and all locations), (4) the peril of earth movement including but not limited to earthquake shall be permitted to have a per occurrence deductible of ten percent (10%) of the total insurable value of a damaged Property subject to a loss (with a minimum deductible of $250,000 per occurrence for any and all locations) and (5) the peril of “other wind and hail” shall be permitted to have a per-occurrence deductible of five percent (5%) of the total insurable value of the applicable Property (with a minimum deductible of $250,000 per occurrence for any and all locations)). In addition, the Borrowers shall obtain (x) if any portion of a Property is currently or at any time in the future located in a federally designated “special flood hazard area”, flood hazard insurance in an amount equal to the maximum amount of such insurance available under the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 or the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994, as each may be amended, plus excess amounts as the Administrative Agent shall require, (y) named storm insurance in an amount equal to or greater than $10,000,000, provided that such coverage amount shall be increased if a higher coverage amount is indicated (and may be decreased if a lower coverage amount is indicated) based upon a storm risk analysis on a 475 year event Probable Maximum Loss (“PML”) or Scenario Expected Limit (“SEL”) (such analysis to be secured by the applicable Borrower utilizing a third-party firm qualified to perform such storm risk analysis using the most current RMS software, or its equivalent, to include consideration of storm surge, if applicable and loss amplification, at the expense of the applicable Borrower at least one time per year or more frequently as may reasonably be requested by the Administrative Agent and shared with the Administrative Agent presented by the Properties located in areas prone to named storm activity); and (z) earthquake insurance in an amount equal to or greater than $10,000,000, provided that such coverage amount shall be increased if a higher coverage amount is indicated (and may be decreased if a lower coverage amount is indicated) based upon a seismic risk analysis on a 475 year event PML or SEL (such analysis to be secured by the applicable Borrower utilizing a third-party firm qualified to perform such seismic risk analysis using the most current RMS software, or its equivalent, to include consideration of loss amplification, at the expense of the applicable Borrower at least one time per year or more frequently as may reasonably be requested by the Administrative Agent and shared with the Administrative Agent presented by the Properties located in areas prone to seismic activity; provided that the insurance pursuant to subclauses (x), (y) and (z) hereof shall be on terms consistent with the comprehensive all risk insurance policy required under this Section 5.04(a)(i); provided, however, that with respect to any HOA Property for which an HOA Policy is maintained and which sustains a loss covered by the insurance policies described above, subject to the deductibles described above, the all risk comprehensive insurance policies shall (1) cover the “walls-in” improvements and betterments and actual loss of rents sustained with respect to any covered loss at such HOA Property, (2) in the event that the insurance proceeds of the HOA Policy are inadequate to pay for the expected cost of the Restoration of such HOA Property, cover the balance of the expected costs of the Restoration by either (A) covering any special assessments that the HOA levies to fully restore property damaged due to a covered loss or (B) in the event that the HOA cannot or does not complete Restoration of an HOA Property damaged due to a covered loss, paying for the greater of (I) the actual cash value of the HOA Property, inclusive of the “walls-out” portion of the building in which the HOA Property is located or (II) the Allocated Loan Amount of such HOA Property, unless in either case such HOA Property is sold “as-is” before Restoration is completed, in which case the net proceeds of such sale shall be deducted from the amount to be paid under the insurance policies;
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(ii) business income or rental loss insurance, written on an “Actual Loss Sustained Basis” (A) with loss payable to Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties, (B) covering all risks required to be covered by the insurance provided for in Section 5.04(a)(i), (ii), (iv) and (viii), (C) in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the aggregate projected net income from the operation of the Properties for a period of at least twelve (12) months after the date of the Casualty, and (D) containing an extended period of indemnity endorsement which provides that after the physical loss to the improvements and personal property at a Property has been repaired, the continued loss of income will be insured until such income either returns to the same level it was at prior to the loss, or the expiration of thirty (30) days from the date that the applicable Property is repaired or replaced and operations are resumed, whichever first occurs, and notwithstanding that the policy may expire prior to the end of such period. The amount of such business income or rental loss insurance shall be determined prior to the Closing Date and at least once each year thereafter based on the Borrowers’ reasonable estimate of the net income from each Property for the succeeding twelve (12) month period. All proceeds payable pursuant to this subsection shall be deposited directly into the Collection Account and shall be applied in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement; provided, however, that nothing herein contained shall be deemed to relieve the Borrowers of their obligations under the Loan Documents on the respective dates of payment provided for in this Agreement and the other Loan Documents except to the extent such amounts are actually paid out of the proceeds of such business income insurance;
(iii) at all times during which structural construction, repairs or renovation are being made with respect to any Property (or the improvements thereon), and only if each of the property coverage form and the liability insurance coverage form does not otherwise apply, (A) owner’s contingent or protective liability insurance, otherwise known as “Owner Contractor’s Protective Liability” (or its equivalent), covering claims not covered by or under the terms or provisions of the above mentioned commercial general liability insurance policy and (B) the insurance provided for in Section 5.04(a) written in a so-called builder’s risk completed value form including coverage for all insurable hard and soft costs of construction (x) on a non-reporting basis, (y) against all risks insured against pursuant to Section 5.04(a)(i), (iii), (iv) and (viii), (z) including permission to occupy such Property and (D) with an agreed amount endorsement waiving co-insurance provisions;
(iv) commercial general liability insurance against claims for personal injury, bodily injury, death or property damage occurring upon, in or about any Property, such insurance (A) to be on the so-called “occurrence” form with a combined limit of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence; $2,000,000 in the aggregate “per location” and overall $20,000,000 in the aggregate; (B) to continue at not less than the aforesaid limit until required to be changed by the Administrative Agent in writing by reason of changed economic conditions making such protection inadequate and (C) to cover at least the following hazards: (1) premises and operations; (2) products and completed operations on an “if any” basis; (3) independent contractors; (4) contractual liability for all written insured contracts and (5) contractual liability covering the indemnities contained in any Mortgage to the extent the same is available;
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(v) automobile liability coverage for all owned and non-owned vehicles, including rented and leased vehicles containing minimum limits per occurrence of $1,000,000;
(vi) if applicable, worker’s compensation subject to the worker’s compensation laws of the applicable state, and employer’s liability in amounts reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent;
(vii) umbrella and excess liability insurance in an amount not less than five million dollars ($5,000,000) per occurrence and in the aggregate on terms consistent with the commercial general liability insurance policy required under Section 6.8(a)(iv), and including employer liability and automobile liability, if required; and the requirement increasing to Ten Million and No/100 Dollars ($10,000,000) once the Borrower has 1,000 properties on the warehouse line; and an additional Five Million and No/100 Dollars ($5,000,000) in excess liability coverage for each subsequent increase of 1,000 properties added to the warehouse line, subject to a maximum $25,000,000 per occurrence and in the annual aggregate;
(viii) upon sixty (60) days’ written notice, such other reasonable insurance, and in such reasonable amounts as the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders from time to time may reasonably request against such other insurable hazards which at the time are commonly insured against for property similar to the Properties located in or around the metropolitan statistical area in which Properties are located, and
(ix) if applicable, any additional insurance coverage the Borrower Representative may agree in writing to maintain in connection with the approval of any Multi-Family Properties or Single Plat Developments as Approved Multi-Family Properties or Approved Single Plat Developments.
(b) All insurance provided for in this Section 5.04, shall be obtained under valid and enforceable policies (collectively, the “Policies” or in the singular, the “Policy”), and shall be subject to the written approval of the Administrative Agent as to insurance companies, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. The Policies shall be issued by financially sound and responsible insurance companies authorized to do business in the applicable State and (i) prior to a securitization, having a rating of “A-:IX” or better in the current Best’s Insurance Reports or a claims paying ability rating of “A-” or better by S&P or another Rating Agency selected by the Administrative Agent, and (ii) from and after a securitization, having a rating of “A3” or better by Moody’s or, if Moody’s does not provide a rating of an applicable insurance company, a rating of “A-” or better by S&P or Fitch, provided, however, that if Borrower elects to have its insurance coverage provided by a syndicate of insurers, then, if such syndicate consists of five (5) or more members, (i) at least sixty percent (60%) of the insurance coverage (or seventy-five percent (75%) if such syndicate consists of four (4) or fewer members) and one hundred (100%) of the first layer of such insurance coverage shall be provided by insurance companies having a rating of “A3” or better by Moody’s or, if Moody’s does not provide a rating of an applicable insurance company, a rating of “A-” or better by S&P or Fitch and (ii) the remaining forty percent (40%) of the insurance coverage (or the remaining twenty-five percent (25%) if such syndicate consists of four (4) or fewer members) shall be provided by insurance companies having a rating of “Baa2” or better by Moody’s or, if Moody’s does not provide a rating of an applicable insurance company, a rating of “BBB” or better by S&P or Fitch); provided, however, that following any downgrade of an insurance company that previously met the ratings criteria set forth above, the Borrowers shall have a period of thirty (30) days to cause replacement Policies to be issued by financially sound and responsible insurance companies authorized to do business in the applicable State and meeting the ratings criteria set forth above. Borrowers shall deliver to the Administrative Agent (1) within ten (10) days prior to the expiration dates of the Policies theretofore furnished to the Administrative Agent, certificates of insurance, if available, evidencing the renewal or replacement of the Policies accompanied by evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent of payment of the premiums due thereunder (the “Insurance Premiums”); provided that if the certificates of insurance described in the foregoing clause (1) are not available as of the applicable due date, then the Borrowers shall deliver to the Administrative Agent not later than five (5) days prior to the expiration dates such Policies, evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent that the coverages required herein shall have been timely renewed, and shall promptly deliver to the Administrative Agent such certificates once they are available, and in any event, not later than the expirations dates of the applicable Policies, and (2) within five (5) Business Days of the Administrative Agent’s request, certificates of insurance, in a form acceptable to the Administrative Agent, setting forth the particulars as to all Policies required hereunder, that all premiums due thereon have been paid and that the same are in full force and effect, together with any other documentation evidencing the Policies (including copies of the Policies) as may be reasonably requested by the Administrative Agent from time to time. Within thirty (30) days of written request by the Administrative Agent, the Borrowers shall provide full and complete copies of all Policies required hereunder.
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(c) Any blanket insurance Policy shall be subject to Administrative Agent’s prior written approval (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld) and shall provide the same protection as would a separate Policy insuring only each Property in compliance with the provisions of this Section 5.04.
(d) All Policies of insurance provided for or contemplated by this Section 5.04 shall name Borrowers as the named insured and, in the case of liability coverages, shall name the Administrative Agent, as agent for the Lenders, as the additional insured on a form acceptable to the Administrative Agent, as its interests may appear, and all property insurance Policies described in this Section 5.04 shall name the Administrative Agent, as agent for the Lenders, as a mortgagee and lender loss payee and shall contain a so-called New York standard non-contributing mortgagee clause in favor of the Administrative Agent, as agent for the Lenders, providing that the loss thereunder shall be payable to the Administrative Agent, as agent for the Lenders.
(e) Each Policy provided for or contemplated by this Section 5.04 shall contain clauses or endorsements to the effect that:
(i) no act or negligence of any Borrower, or anyone acting for any Borrower, or of any Tenant or other occupant, or failure to comply with the provisions of any Policy, which might otherwise result in a forfeiture of the insurance or any part thereof, or exercise of the Administrative Agent’s rights or remedies hereunder or any other Loan Document, shall in any way affect the validity or enforceability of the insurance insofar as the Administrative Agent is concerned;
(ii) such Policy shall not be materially changed (other than to increase the coverage provided thereby) or canceled without at least thirty (30) days written notice to the Administrative Agent, Diligence Agent and any other party named therein as an additional insured;
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(iii) the issuer thereof shall give written notice to the Administrative Agent and Diligence Agent if such Policy has not been renewed thirty (30) days prior to its expiration; and
(iv) the Administrative Agent shall not be liable for any Insurance Premiums thereon or subject to any assessments thereunder.
(f) The Administrative Agent shall not be deemed by reason of the custody of any Policies, certificates or binders or copies thereof to have knowledge of the contents thereof. If any Borrower fails to maintain any Policy as required pursuant to this Section 5.04, the Administrative Agent may, at its option, obtain such Policy using such carriers and agencies as the Administrative Agent shall elect from year to year (until such Borrower shall have obtained such Policy in accordance with this Section 5.04) and pay the premiums therefor, and the Borrowers shall reimburse the Administrative Agent on demand for any premium so paid, with interest thereon at the Default Rate from the time such premiums are paid by the Administrative Agent until the same are reimbursed by Borrowers, and the amount so owing to the Administrative Agent shall constitute a portion of the Obligations.
(g) In the event of foreclosure of any Mortgage or other transfer of title to any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development in extinguishment in whole or in part of any Loan, all right, title and interest of the Borrowers in and to the Policies then in force concerning such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development (except to the extent that any such insurance policy is a blanket policy) and all proceeds payable thereunder with respect to such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development shall thereupon vest in the purchaser of such foreclosure or the Administrative Agent or other transferee in the event of such other transfer of title.
(h) If a Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development incurs a Casualty, the applicable Borrower shall either (i) retain any Insurance Proceeds with respect thereto and promptly commence and diligently prosecute the completion of the restoration of such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development as nearly as possible to the condition the Property was in immediately prior to such Casualty; provided that within ninety (90) days after receipt of such Insurance Proceeds, the Borrower Representative shall have delivered to the Administrative Agent a certificate of a Responsible Officer of the Borrower Representative to the effect that the applicable Borrower shall so retain such Insurance Proceeds and promptly commence and diligently prosecute the completion of such restoration or (ii) prepay the Loans (in an amount equal to the Allocated Loan Amount, and any interest, Fees or other Obligations related thereto, of the related Financed Property) on the Monthly Payment Date following the Settlement Period in which the Borrowers elects not to restore such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, in which event the Administrative Agent shall release the security interest and Lien in and to all Collateral related to such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development in accordance with Section 2.17; provided, however, if the amount of total Insurance Proceeds in respect of any one Casualty shall exceed twenty percent (20%) of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance at such time, the Majority Lenders shall have a right to direct whether the proceeds shall be applied as described in clause (i) or (ii) above. The applicable Borrower shall give prompt written notice of any such Casualty resulting in either (i) a Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development being destroyed in whole or (ii) damage to one or more Financed Properties or Financed Single Plat Developments in an amount equal to or greater than $500,000 in any single occurrence (fire, named windstorm, etc.). In the event that clause (i) of this clause (h) applies, the Borrowers shall pay all costs of such restoration whether or not such costs are covered by insurance. The Administrative Agent may, but shall not be obligated to, make proof of loss if not made promptly by the Borrowers.
(i) With respect to any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, specifically identified by the applicable Flood Hazard Determination as located in a “special flood hazard area” with respect to which flood insurance has been made available under the Flood Insurance Laws, the Borrowers shall (A) maintain with respect to such Financed Property or, with respect to any Financed Single Plat Development, each Property located thereon, with a financially sound and reputable insurer, flood insurance in an amount sufficient to comply with the Flood Insurance Laws, and (B) provide to the Administrative Agent for delivery to each Lender, an executed notice that satisfies the requirements set forth at 12 C.F.R. 22.9.
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SECTION 5.05. Negative Covenants of the Loan Parties. From the Closing Date until the Final Collection Date, each Loan Party shall comply with the following covenants:
(a) Operation of Properties. The Loan Parties will not, without the Administrative Agent’s prior written consent (not to be unreasonably withheld) and, in the case of any of the actions set forth below determined by the Administrative Agent to be material and adverse to the Lenders, the prior written consent of the Majority Lenders: (1) surrender, terminate or cancel any Management Agreement; provided, that the Borrowers may, without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders, replace a Property Manager so long as (A) the replacement Property Manager is a Qualified Property Manager or a Local Property Manager or (B) the Majority Lenders shall have approved such replacement Property Manager in writing; (2) reduce or consent to the reduction of the term of any Management Agreement (except in accordance with the terms thereof); (3) increase or consent to the increase of the amount of any charges under the Management Agreement (except in accordance with the terms thereof); or (4) otherwise modify, change, supplement, alter or amend, or waive or release any of its rights and remedies under, any Management Agreement in any material respect. The Loan Parties will not suffer any Person to manage any Property at any time that is not a Qualified Property Manager or a Local Property Manager hired pursuant to a Management Agreement that has been assigned pursuant to an Assignment of Management Agreement; provided, however, that in the event that a Property Manager ceases to be a Qualified Property Manager or any Local Property Manager ceases to satisfy the requirements set forth in the definition thereof, the foregoing covenant shall not be deemed to be breached if the Borrowers shall, within sixty (60) days (or such longer period as the Administration Agent may agree to in writing) after the earlier of the date (A) that any Responsible Officer of any Relevant Party becomes aware of such failure of such Property Manager to be a Qualified Property Manager or any such Local Property Manager to satisfy the requirements set forth in the definition thereof, as applicable, or (B) of notice thereof from the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders, terminate the applicable Management Agreement with such Property Manager and enter into a Replacement Management Agreement with a new Qualified Property Manager or, if such Qualified Property Manager has elected to engage a Local Property Manager pursuant to the terms hereof, Local Property Manager, as applicable, and provide to the Administrative Agent a copy of the same upon the execution thereof. Following the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, no Loan Party may exercise any rights, make any decisions, grant any approvals or otherwise take any action under any Management Agreement without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent, and, in the case of any such actions determined by the Administrative Agent to be material and adverse to the Lenders, the consent of the Majority Lenders.
(b) Liens, Etc. Against Assets. The Loan Parties shall not create or suffer to exist any Adverse Claim upon or with respect to, any Asset or assign any right to receive income in respect thereof (other than in favor of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties in accordance with this Agreement or any other Loan Document).
(c) Refinancing and Transfer of Financed Properties. The Loan Parties shall not sell, convey, assign, transfer, grant an option to purchase or otherwise transfer or dispose of a legal or beneficial interest in, whether direct or indirect, or by operation of law (except for any involuntary Condemnation) any Financed Property or consummate any secured or unsecured loan or similar financing transaction that is secured, by, or involving, a Financed Property, other than a (i) Transfer that is conducted in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.16, (ii) a transfer of any Financed Property to any TRS Borrower in accordance with the provisions of Section 5.01(z) in anticipation of a sale of such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development or (iii) any other transaction that is permitted under the Loan Documents or approved in writing by the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders; provided that, in connection with a Refinancing, subject to compliance with Section 2.16, any Borrower may sell, convey, assign or transfer any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development to an Affiliate of a Loan Party; provided further that, in connection with any Transfer of any Financed Property to any TRS Borrower, (A) such Financed Property is Transferred without payment of actual valuable consideration and (B) the Diligence Agent shall have completed a reasonably satisfactory review of the Property File for such Financed Property (and, if applicable, the related Financed Single Plat Development); and provided further that, with respect to any Refinancing or Transfer of any Financed Property located on a Financed Single Plat Development, such Refinancing or Transfer shall include all Financed Properties located on such Financed Single Plat Development.
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(d) Change in Business. No Loan Party shall enter into any line of business other than the activities permitted for such Loan Party by Section 5.01(l)(i), or make any material change in the scope or nature of its business objectives, purposes or operations, or undertake or participate in activities other than the continuance of its present business. No Equity Owner shall engage in any activity other than activities permitted for such Person by Section 5.01(l)(i).
(e) Changes to Accounts. The Loan Parties shall not (i) open or permit to remain open any cash, securities or other account with any bank, custodian or institution other than the Collection Account, the Disbursement Account, the Reserve Accounts, the Property Accounts, each Operating Account, any other Account and any other account of any Borrower that is either (x) subject to a “springing” control agreement in favor of the Administrative Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties or (y) with the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent, maintained solely for the purpose of receiving funds distributed from an Operating Account for the purpose of paying operating expenses and making Restricted Junior Payments to the extent permitted under Section 5.05(m), (ii) change or permit to change any account number of the Collection Account, the Reserve Accounts, any Property Account subject to a Property Account Control Agreement and any Operating Account or (iii) open or permit to remain open any sub-account of the Collection Account (except any Reserve Account), the Reserve Accounts, any Property Account or any Operating Account.
(f) Transfers of Interests; Merger, Consolidation; Etc. No direct or indirect Equity Interests in the Borrowers shall be conveyed, transferred, assigned, sold, pledged or encumbered except (1) to the extent that any such conveyance, transfer, assignment, sale, pledge or encumbrance does not result in a Change of Control, (2) [reserved] or (3) to the extent otherwise approved in writing by the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders in their sole discretion. The Loan Parties shall not (i) engage in any dissolution, liquidation or consolidation, division or merger with or into any other entity, (ii) transfer, lease or sell, in one transaction or any combination of transactions, the assets or all or substantially all of the properties or assets of a Borrower except to the extent permitted by the Loan Documents, or (iii) modify, amend, waive or terminate its organizational documents (except for amendments necessary to implement the BRG Restructuring or ministerial changes necessary to reflect a new equity owner in connection with any conveyance, transfer, assignment or sale or its qualification and good standing in any jurisdiction where the nature of its business requires such qualification and good standing), in each case, without obtaining the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and, in the case of any such amendment, modification, waiver or termination determined by the Administrative Agent to be material and adverse to the Lenders, the consent of the Majority Lenders; provided that, so long as no Default or Event of Default shall then be continuing or would result therefrom, nothing in this Section 5.05(f) shall restrict sale or disposition of any Property that ceases to be a Financed Property; provided, further that, if any Adverse Claim, litigation or governmental proceeding is existing or pending or, to the knowledge of any Borrower, threatened against such Property which may result in liability for the applicable Borrower, adequate reserves reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent shall have been, or upon such sale or disposition shall be, deposited in the Special Reserves Account. The Administrative Agent may, and at the request of the Majority Lenders shall, require the Borrowers by written notice to the Borrower Representative to sell or transfer (which sale or transfer may be to an affiliate of any Borrower for fair market value or otherwise disposed of in manner that would not cause the Loan Parties to violate Section 5.01(l)) (i) any Property that does not constitute a Financed Property or any Single Plat Development that does not constitute a Financed Single Plat Development within ninety (90) days following the acquisition of such Property or such Single Plat Development (or, if later, ninety (90) days following the date of this Agreement), and/or (ii) any Disqualified Property, in each case if the Administrative Agent (or the Majority Lenders) shall have reasonably determined in their judgment that there is material liability at any such Property, or Disqualified Property, as applicable, and sufficient cause exists for such removal (and provided written notice to the Borrowers describing in reasonable detail any such sufficient cause). Upon Borrower Representative’s receipt of such written notice, the Borrowers shall (x) sell or transfer any Property or Single Plat Development described in clause (i) above as soon as reasonably practicable and in any event within one hundred and twenty (120) days after the date of such notice and (y) with respect to any such Disqualified Property described in clause (ii) above, comply with the last sentence of Section 2.06(b)(v) and thereafter sell or transfer such Disqualified Property as soon as reasonably practicable and in any event within one hundred twenty (120) days after the date of receipt of such notice; provided that, if any Adverse Claim, litigation or governmental proceeding is existing or pending or, to the actual knowledge of any Borrower, threatened against such Property or Single Plat Development which may result in liability for the applicable Borrower, adequate reserves reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent shall have been, or upon such sale or disposition shall be, deposited in the Special Reserves Account.
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(g) Organizational Documents; Jurisdiction of Organization. No Loan Party shall (i) amend, modify, terminate or otherwise make any change to its Constituent Documents, in any manner adverse to the Secured Parties or as may violate or permit the violation of the single purpose entity provisions of any Special Purpose Entity set forth therein or (ii) change its form or jurisdiction of organization.
(h) ERISA Matters. Neither Sponsor, nor any of the Loan Parties nor their respective ERISA Affiliates shall establish or be a party to any employee benefit plan within the meaning of Section 3(2) of ERISA that is a defined benefit pension plan that is subject to Part III of Subchapter D, Chapter 1, Subtitle A of Title 26 of the Code.
(i) Indebtedness. The Loan Parties shall not create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Indebtedness except for Indebtedness to the Lenders hereunder and other Permitted Indebtedness.
(j) Limitation on Transactions with Affiliates. The Loan Parties shall not enter into, or be a party to any transaction with any Affiliate of the Loan Parties, except for: (i) the Loan Documents; (ii) capital contributions by (a) an Equity Owner to any Borrower and (b) a Borrower to its subsidiary Borrower TRS, which in each case, are in compliance with Section 5.05(l); (iii) Restricted Junior Payments which are in compliance with Section 5.05(m), (iv) Management Agreements or Replacement Management Agreements that are in compliance with Section 5.01(r); (v) transactions in connection with Refinancings (subject to compliance with Section 2.16) and the transfer of any Financed Property to any TRS Borrower pursuant to the terms hereof; and (vi) to the extent not otherwise prohibited under this Agreement, other transactions upon fair and reasonable terms materially no less favorable to the Loan Parties than would be obtained in a comparable arm’s-length transaction with a Person not an Affiliate.
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(k) Loan Documents. The Loan Parties shall not terminate, amend or otherwise modify or release any Loan Document to which they are a party, or grant or consent to any such termination, amendment, waiver or consent, except in accordance with the terms thereof.
(l) Limitation on Investments. The Loan Parties shall not make any loans or advances to (or suffer to exist any loans or advances made by any Loan Party), or extend any credit to, purchase any property or asset from, or make any investment (by way of transfer of property, contributions to capital, purchase of stock or securities or evidences of indebtedness, acquisition of the business or assets, or otherwise) in, any Person except for (i) acquisitions of Properties and related Assets and Permitted Investments and investments by the Loan Parties in any other Loan Party and (ii) subject to compliance with Section 2.16, transfers of Properties in connection with Refinancings.
(m) Restricted Junior Payments. The Loan Parties shall not make any Restricted Junior Payment; provided, that the Loan Parties may make Restricted Junior Payments so long as (i) no Default or Event of Default shall then be continuing or would result therefrom, (ii) such Restricted Junior Payments have been approved by all necessary action on the part of the Loan Parties and in compliance with all applicable Legal Requirements and (iii) if any Restricted Junior Payment is paid from cash, such Restricted Junior Payments shall be paid from Unrestricted Cash; provided further that however, notwithstanding any Default or Event of Default hereunder, the Loan Parties will be permitted to declare or make or agree to make such Restricted Junior Payments from Unrestricted Cash as are required to be made in order to maintain a Sponsor’s status as a real estate investment trust under Section 856 of the Code, meet the real estate investment trust distribution requirements set forth in Section 857(a) of the Code, and avoid the incurrence of entity level taxes under Section 857(b)(1) and 4981 of the Code.
(n) Limitation on Issuance of Equity Interests. The Loan Parties shall not issue or sell or enter into any agreement or arrangement for the issuance and sale of any Equity Interests subject to mandatory redemption (upon the occurrence of any contingency or otherwise).
(o) Anti-Money Laundering and Sanctions. Each Loan Party shall comply (i) in all material respects with all applicable Anti-Money Laundering Laws and Anti-Corruption Laws and (ii) with all applicable Sanctions; and each Loan Party shall provide notice to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, within two (2) Business Days, of any Loan Party’s receipt of any Anti-Money Laundering Law, Anti-Corruption Law, or Sanctions regulatory notice or action involving the Loan Parties.
(p) OFAC.
(i) The Borrowers shall (A) prior to entering into a Lease with a Tenant, confirm that such Tenant (excluding an in-place Lease with a Carry-Over Tenant, but including a new Lease with any such Carry-Over Tenant) is not listed on any Government List and (B) not enter into a Lease with a Tenant (excluding an in-place Lease with a Carry-Over Tenant, but including a new Lease with any such Carry-Over Tenant) that is listed on any Government List.
(ii) Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Responsible Officer of any Loan Party determines or the Borrowers obtain knowledge that a Tenant is on any Government List, it shall promptly provide notice of such determination to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, within two (2) Business Days.
(q) Major Leases.
(i) Subject to clause (iii) below, no Borrower shall enter into a proposed Major Lease or a proposed renewal, extension or modification of an existing Major Lease without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent.
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(ii) Provided that no Event of Default is continuing, renewals, amendments and modifications of existing Leases and proposed leases, shall not be subject to the prior written approval of the Administrative Agent provided (i) the proposed lease would not be a Major Lease or the existing Lease as amended or modified or the renewal Lease would not be a Major Lease and (ii) the Lease as amended or modified or the renewal Lease or series of leases or proposed lease or series of leases: (A) shall be written substantially in accordance with the standard form of Lease which shall have been approved in writing by the Administrative Agent, (B) shall provide for net effective rental rates comparable to existing local market rates, (C) with respect to non-residential leases (or proposed non-residential Leases), shall provide for automatic self-operative subordination to the Mortgage, (D) shall not contain any option to purchase, any right of first refusal to purchase, any right to terminate (except in the event of the destruction or condemnation of substantially all of the applicable Property), any requirement for a non-disturbance or recognition agreement, or any other provision which might adversely affect the rights of the Administrative Agent or any Lender under the Loan Documents in any material respect, and (E) shall have a term (together with all extensions and renewal options) of not less than six (6) months nor more than two (2) years. Upon the Administrative Agent’s request, the Borrower Representative shall deliver to the Administrative Agent copies of all Leases which are entered into pursuant to the preceding sentence together with each applicable Borrower’s certification that it has satisfied all of the conditions of the preceding sentence within ten (10) days after the Administrative Agent’s request for a copy of such Lease.
(iii) The Borrowers shall not permit or consent to any assignment or sublease of any Major Lease without the Administrative Agent’s prior written approval (other than assignments or subleases expressly permitted under any Major Lease pursuant to a unilateral right of the Tenant thereunder not requiring the consent of the applicable Borrower). The Administrative Agent may, at its option and at the Borrowers’ sole cost and expense, execute and deliver its standard form of subordination, non-disturbance and attornment agreement to Tenants under any future Lease that is a Major Lease approved in writing by the Administrative Agent upon request, with such commercially reasonable changes as may be requested by such Tenants and which are acceptable to the Administrative Agent.
(iv) The Borrowers shall have the right, without the consent or approval of the Administrative Agent, to terminate or accept a surrender of any Lease that is not a Major Lease so long as such termination or surrender is (i) by reason of a tenant default or (ii) is commercially reasonable, as determined by the applicable Borrower in good faith.
SECTION 5.06. Financial Covenants.
(a) Maximum Loan to Value Ratio. The Loan Parties will not permit the Loan to Value Ratio with respect to all Financed Properties to exceed 72.5% as of any Quarterly Determination Date.
(b) Debt Service Coverage Ratio. The Loan Parties will not permit the Debt Service Coverage Ratio for all Financed Properties to be less than 1.25:1.00 as of any Quarterly Determination Date.
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(c) Debt Yield. The Loan Parties will not permit the Debt Yield for all Financed Properties to be less than 6.25% as of any Quarterly Determination Date.
SECTION 5.07. Risk Retention. The Risk Retention Sponsor represents and undertakes to the Administrative Agent and each Lender that, so long as (i) any Lender is subject, whether directly or indirectly, to the EU Securitization Rules; and (ii) the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance is greater than zero:
(a) the Risk Retention Sponsor holds, and shall retain on an ongoing basis, a net economic interest in the transaction contemplated by this Agreement which shall not be less than 5%, as set forth in sub-paragraphs (b) and (c) below (the “Retained Interest”);
(b) the Retained Interest is, and shall be, in the form of the first loss tranche as defined in paragraph (d) of Article 6(3) of the EU Securitization Regulation, as represented by the Risk Retention Sponsor ensuring that:
(i) at all times:
(A) the Risk Retention Sponsor holds and will retain not less than 80% of the Equity Interests in Pkg 10 Parent, either directly or, if indirectly, then only through one or more Holding Subsidiaries; and
(B) Pkg 10 Parent holds and will retain directly 100% of the Equity Interests in Pkg 10 Pledgor, LLC (“Pkg 10 Equity Owner”);
(ii) with effect from the time (if any) at which Pkg 8 Pledgor, LLC is added as an Equity Owner hereunder:
(A) the Risk Retention Sponsor holds and will retain not less than 59.6% of the Equity Interests in Pkg 8 Parent, either directly or, if indirectly, then only through one or more Holding Subsidiaries; and
(B) Pkg 8 Parent holds and will retain directly 100% of the Equity Interests in Pkg 8 Pledgor, LLC (“Pkg 8 Equity Owner”);
(iii) at all times, 100% of the Equity Interests in each Borrower are held and retained by Pkg 8 Equity Owner or Pkg 10 Equity Owner, either directly or, if indirectly, then only through one or more Special Purpose Entities; and
(iv) the amount of Equity Interests held and retained by the Risk Retention Sponsor in each of the Borrowers in accordance with sub-paragraphs (b)(i) to (iii) above equals, in total, at least 5% of the sum, for all Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments, of the amount that is, for each Financed Property and each Financed Single Plat Development, the higher of (x) the Purchase Price of the relevant Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, and (y) the BPO Value of such Financed Property Financed Single Plat Development, in each case, as at the time of origination (being the most recent Borrowing Date to occur under this Agreement for a Financed Property or a Financed Single Plat Development);
(c) the Risk Retention Sponsor will not, and will not permit any affiliate (including any entity referred to in sub-paragraph (b) above, each an “Intermediate Entity”) to: (i) hedge or otherwise mitigate the credit risk arising from or associated with the Retained Interest (including any interest in any Intermediate Entity); or (ii) sell, transfer or otherwise surrender all or part of the rights, benefits or obligations arising from or associated with the Retained Interest (including any interest in any Intermediate Entity), except (in the case of both part (i) and part (ii) of this sub-paragraph (c)) to the extent permitted by the EU Securitization Rules, it being understood that the Interest Rate Cap Agreement shall not constitute a credit risk mitigation or a hedge prohibited by the EU Securitization Rules;
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(d) the Risk Retention Sponsor will confirm to Administrative Agent that it continues to comply with its obligations under sub-paragraphs (a) to (c) above:
(i) each month, at the time the statements referred to in Section 5.02(b)(iii) are required to be provided, a statement confirming that it continues to comply with its obligations under sub-paragraphs (a) through (c) above, in the form attached as Exhibit I;
(ii) in the event of a material change in the performance of the Loans or the risk characteristics of the Loans and the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments as a result of a material change in the structure of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or otherwise; and
(iii) upon the occurrence of any Event of Default or becoming aware of any breach of the obligations contained in any Transaction Documents;
(e) the Risk Retention Sponsor will provide prompt written notice to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders of any breach of its obligations under sub-paragraphs (a) through (c) above;
(f) the Risk Retention Sponsor will not change the manner in which it holds the Retained Interest, or the methodology used to calculate the amount of the Retained Interest, except (in each case) to the extent that such change is permitted under the EU Securitization Rules;
(g) the Risk Retention Sponsor will provide all such information, documents, reports and notifications that the Administrative Agent or any Lender may reasonably require in relation to the Retained Interest, the Financed Properties, the Financed Single Plat Developments and/or the Leases in order that a Lender may comply with its obligations under the EU Securitization Rules;
(h) the Risk Retention Sponsor (i) was not established for, and does not operate for, the sole purpose of securitizing exposures; (ii) holds, and shall continue to invest in and hold, assets, securities and other investments, excluding the Equity Interests in the Borrowers and its interests in the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments; (iii) has, and shall continue to have, the capacity to meet its general payment and other obligations and absorb credit losses through resources other than its Equity Interests in the Borrowers and its interests in the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments; and (iv) has established, and shall maintain, arrangements by which it has the benefit of the services of sufficient decision makers with the required experience to enable the Risk Retention Sponsor to pursue its established business strategy, as well as an adequate corporate governance structure; and
(i) the Risk Retention Sponsor has taken or procured (or, as applicable, will take or procure) all necessary steps to ensure that: (i) the Leases were (or, as applicable, will be) granted on the basis of sound and well-defined underwriting criteria; (ii) clearly established processes are maintained for approving, amending and renewing the Leases; and (iii) effective systems are in place to apply those criteria and processes to ensure that Leases are granted based on a thorough assessment of each Tenant’s creditworthiness.
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ARTICLE VI
RESERVES
With respect to all Reserves and Reserve Accounts, subject to Section 6.11 below:
SECTION 6.01. [Reserved].
SECTION 6.02. Renovation Reserves.
(a) Renovation Reserves Account. Prior to the advance of any Loan related to any Non-Stabilized Property, the Loan Parties shall provide to the Administrative Agent and the Diligence Agent a budget and schedule (the “Proposed Scheduled Renovation Work”) describing the Renovation Expenses necessary in the Borrowers’ good faith determination to cause such Non-Stabilized Properties to be renovated, improved, repaired and completed so as to satisfy the Renovation Standards. In connection with obtaining the BPO Value for such Non-Stabilized Properties, the Administrative Agent will cause the Diligence Agent to inspect such Non-Stabilized Properties and review the Proposed Scheduled Renovation Work to determine if the proposed schedule of repairs, installations, renovations, rehabilitation and other capital expenditures and the amounts budgeted therefor are sufficient to bring such Non-Stabilized Properties into compliance with the Renovation Standards. If the Diligence Agent has determined that such proposed schedule and the amounts budgeted therefor are sufficient for such purpose, such schedule shall constitute the “Scheduled Renovation Work” for such Non-Stabilized Property. If the Diligence Agent has determined that such proposed schedule or the amounts budgeted therefor are not sufficient for such purpose, the Diligence Agent may propose modifications to the Proposed Scheduled Renovation Work for such Non-Stabilized Properties and such revised schedule (once agreed by the Borrowers) shall constitute the “Scheduled Renovation Work” for such Non-Stabilized Property. In any event, the amount of “Renovation Reserves” with respect to each Non-Stabilized Property shall be an amount equal (x) to 100% of the amounts budgeted in the Scheduled Renovation Work with respect thereto. At the time of disbursement of any Loan with respect to any Non-Stabilized Property, an amount equal to the Renovation Reserves with respect to such Non-Stabilized Property shall be deposited by Borrowers with the Paying Agent (or remitted from the proceeds of a related Loan on such Property pursuant to Section 2.02(c)) for transfer to the Renovation Reserves Account. The Loan Parties shall promptly perform all of the Scheduled Renovation Work on Financed Properties constituting Non-Stabilized Properties in a good and workmanlike manner, and shall promptly notify the Administrative Agent and the Diligence Agent when the Scheduled Renovation Work on a Property has been completed (a “Notice of Completion”). The Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders may cause the Diligence Agent to inspect the leases for all such Financed Properties and a sample of up to ten percent (10%) by number of the Financed Properties (any such inspection, a “Renovation Standards Inspection”) with respect to which Notices of Completion have been delivered since the date of the last Renovation Standards Inspection for purposes of verifying compliance with the Renovation Standards, such sample to be selected by the Administrative Agent. If the Diligence Agent is not able to access any such Financed Property selected for inspection, the Administrative Agent shall select other Financed Properties to be inspected, such that such sample is comprised of up to 10% of the Financed Properties with respect to which Notices of Completion have been delivered since the date of the last Renovation Standards Inspection (such sample, as may be adjusted in accordance with the final sentence of this clause (a), the “Selected Financed Property Sample”). The Borrowers will cooperate reasonably to enable the Diligence Agent to inspect such Financed Properties before they become occupied. If any such sample shows that any of such sampled Financed Properties are not then in compliance with the Renovation Standards in all material respects, the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders may cause the Diligence Agent to subsequently inspect all or a larger sample of the Financed Properties included in the Sample Pool in respect of such Selected Financed Property Sample to confirm compliance for such Financed Properties with the Renovation Standards in all material respects. If any such sample shows that material non-compliance with the Renovation Standards shall affect a percentage of Financed Properties (by number) in the Selected Financed Property Sample equal to or greater than ten percent (10%) and such percentage shall represent a minimum of five (5) Financed Properties (or if such material non-compliance with the Renovation Standards shall result in an overall percentage of materially non-compliant Financed Properties (by number) for all Selected Financial Property Samples equal to or greater than five percent (5%)), the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders may with respect to each future Renovation Standards Inspection cause the Diligence Agent to inspect a Selected Financed Property Sample up to one hundred percent (100%) of the Financed Properties with respect to which Notices of Completion have been delivered since the date of the last Renovation Standards Inspection to confirm compliance for such Financed Properties with the Renovation Standards.
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(b) Release of Renovation Reserves. The Administrative Agent shall, from time to time upon satisfaction by the Loan Parties of each of the Converted Property Reserve Release Conditions (or at the time provided in Section 6.11(g)), instruct the Paying Agent in writing, as applicable, to remit to the Borrower Representative the Renovation Reserves with respect to any Converted Properties, to the extent any Renovation Reserves have been funded in cash and are held in the Renovation Reserves Account, from the Renovation Reserves Account. Any Renovation Reserves funded in cash with respect to any Converted Property released under this Section 6.02(b) shall, subject to Section 6.11(e), (i) first be disbursed by the Paying Agent at the written direction of the Administrative Agent to (x) the Standing Reserves Account pursuant to Section 6.07 to the extent the Standing Reserves required for such Property have not previously been funded, (y) the Tax Reserve Account pursuant to Section 6.05 to the extent the Tax Reserves in respect of such Property on deposit in the Tax Reserve Account on such date are not in compliance with the requirements of Section 6.05; and (z) the Insurance Reserves Account pursuant to Section 6.06 to the extent the Insurance Reserves in respect of such Property on deposit in the Insurance Reserves Account on such date are not in compliance with the requirements of Section 6.06; in such proportion as between items (x), (y) and (z) above as the Administrative Agent shall determine in its sole discretion, and (ii) thereafter, if (A) the Actual Renovation Expenses for any such Property are equal to or in excess of the remaining Renovation Reserves for such Property, the entire amount of the Renovation Reserves for such Property shall be released by the Paying Agent to the Borrower Representative, and (B) if the Actual Renovation Expenses for such Properties are less than the Renovation Reserves for such Property, seventy five percent (75%) of the difference (or if the Allocated Loan Amount on the date of the applicable Loan for such Property was less than seventy five percent (75%) of the Purchase Price of such Property, such lesser percentage) shall be distributed at the written direction of the Administrative Agent to the Debt Service Account for application by the Paying Agent, in accordance with the written instructions of the Administrative Agent, to reduce the Allocated Loan Amount for such Property (without the payment of any exit fee), and the remainder of the Renovation Reserves for such Property shall be released by the Paying Agent as directed by the Borrower Representative in writing within five (5) days of the Paying Agent’s receipt of such written direction.
(c) Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent may, or at the direction of the Majority Lenders shall, instruct the Paying Agent in writing to remit all or any portion of the Renovation Reserves from the Renovation Reserves Account and apply such funds either to (i) the costs of completion of the Scheduled Renovation Work of the Financed Properties or (ii) the Allocated Loan Amount in respect of each Financed Property, pro rata to each Lender, in such proportion as between items (i) and (ii) above as the Administrative Agent may determine in its sole discretion. The right to instruct the Paying Agent in writing to remit and apply Renovation Reserves in accordance with the foregoing shall be in addition to all other rights and remedies provided to the Administrative Agent or any Lenders under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents.
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SECTION 6.03. [Reserved].
SECTION 6.04. Debt Service Reserves.
(a) Debt Service Reserves Account. In connection with the disbursement of any Property Loan with respect to a Non-Stabilized Property, a reserve in an amount equal to four (4) months of interest that would accrue under Section 2.05(a) on the amount of such Property Loan related to such Non-Stabilized Property at the applicable Interest Rate in effect at the time of the disbursement of such Property Loan (the “Debt Service Reserves”) shall be deposited with the Paying Agent (or remitted from the proceeds of the Property Loan on such Property pursuant to Section 2.02(c)) for transfer to the Debt Service Reserves Account. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent may, or at the direction of the Majority Lenders shall, direct the Paying Agent in writing to withdraw all or any portion of the Debt Service Reserves or any other amounts on deposit in the Debt Service Reserves Account and apply such funds, on a pro rata basis in respect of each Lender, first, to pay interest on the Loans accrued and payable to such Lender and, second, to reduce the Allocated Loan Amount in respect of each Financed Property, pro rata to each Lender.
(b) Release of Debt Service Reserves. Provided no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, upon a Non-Stabilized Property becoming a Stabilized Property, the Debt Service Reserves or any other amounts on deposit in the Debt Service Reserves Account with respect to such Property shall (i) first be disbursed by the Paying Agent, as directed in writing by the Administrative Agent to (x) the Standing Reserves Account pursuant to Section 6.07 to the extent the Standing Reserves required for such Property have not previously been funded, (y) the Tax Reserve Account pursuant to Section 6.05 to the extent the Tax Reserves in respect of such Property on deposit in the Tax Reserve Account on such date are not in compliance with the requirements of Section 6.05, and (z) the Insurance Reserves Account pursuant to Section 6.06 to the extent the Insurance Reserves in respect of such Property on deposit in the Insurance Reserves Account on such date are not in compliance with the requirements of Section 6.06, in such proportion as between items (x), (y) and (z) above as the Administrative Agent shall determine in its sole discretion; and (ii) second, to the Collection Account for application in accordance with Section 2.07. Provided that a Responsible Officer of the Paying Agent has not received written notice that a Default or Event of Default exists and remains uncured, the Paying Agent shall disburse the Debt Service Reserves to the Borrower Representative (as directed in writing by the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 6.11(e)), with respect to a Property upon the Refinancing or Transfer of such Property and the payment in full of the applicable Release Amount with respect to such Property (or at the time provided in Section 6.11(g)).
SECTION 6.05. Tax Reserve.
(a) At the time of disbursement of a Property Loan with respect to any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, the Borrowers shall pay to the Paying Agent (or such amounts shall be remitted from the proceeds of such Property Loan on such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development pursuant to Section 2.02(c) or upon release of any Renovation Reserves or Debt Service Reserves with respect to any Converted Property, to the extent the Tax Reserves for such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development have not previously been deposited or are not in compliance with this Section 6.05 on such date) for transfer to the Tax Reserve Account an amount equal to the Diligence Agent’s estimate of six (6) months of Real Estate Taxes and Applicable HOA Property Fees with respect to each Financed Property and each Financed Single Plat Development (the “Tax Reserves”) in accordance with this Section 6.05. Borrowers shall provide to the Diligence Agent and the Administrative Agent an estimate of and supporting information for the amount of the real estate taxes and Applicable HOA Property Fees for each Financed Property and each Financed Single Plat Development and of any changes thereto occurring from time to time in order for Diligence Agent to make such estimates of real estate taxes and Applicable HOA Property Fees pursuant to this Section 6.05. The Borrowers shall provide to the Diligence Agent such certificates, tax bills and other evidence as the Diligence Agent may reasonably require. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent may, or at the direction of the Majority Lenders shall, direct the Paying Agent in writing to withdraw all or any portion of the Tax Reserve from the Tax Reserve Account and apply such funds either to pay (i) real estate taxes and Applicable HOA Property Fees or (ii) the Allocated Loan Amount in respect of each Financed Property, pro rata to each Lender, in such proportion as between items (i) and (ii) above as the Administrative Agent may determine in its sole discretion. In making any payment from the Tax Reserve Account during an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent may do so according to any bill, statement or estimate procured from the appropriate public office or HOA, without inquiry into the accuracy of such bill, statement or estimate or into the validity of any tax, assessment, sale, forfeiture, tax lien or title or claim thereof, or Applicable HOA Property Fee or claim thereof. The right to direct the Paying Agent in writing to withdraw and apply Tax Reserves in accordance with the foregoing shall be in addition to all other rights and remedies provided to the Administrative Agent or any Lenders under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents. Provided that a Responsible Officer of the Paying Agent has not received written notice that a Default or Event of Default exists and remains uncured, the Paying Agent shall disburse the Tax Reserve with respect to a Property to the Borrower Representative (as directed in writing by the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 6.11(e)) upon the Refinancing or Transfer of such Property and the payment in full of the applicable Release Amount with respect to such Property (or at the time provided in Section 6.11(g)).
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(b) Release of Tax Reserves. If as of any Quarterly Determination Date the amount held in the Tax Reserve Account exceeds the amount required to be held therein pursuant to Section 6.05(a), as set forth in the most recent Monthly Borrower Report and as confirmed by the Diligence Agent (the amount of such excess, the “Excess Tax Reserves”), the Administrative Agent shall instruct the Paying Agent in writing to disburse to the Collection Account the Excess Tax Reserves from the Tax Reserve Account upon satisfaction of each of the following conditions: (i) the Borrower Representative shall have submitted a written request for release to the Administrative Agent at least five (5) Business Days prior to the date on which the Borrower Representative requests such release be made; provided that only one such request for release shall be permitted to be made in any calendar quarter; and (ii) on the date such request is received by Administrative Agent and on the date such payment is to be made, no Default or Event of Default shall exist and remain uncured.(c)
SECTION 6.06. Insurance Reserves.
(a) At the time of disbursement of a Property Loan with respect to any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, the Borrowers shall pay to the Paying Agent (or such amounts shall be remitted from the proceeds of such Property Loan on such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development pursuant to Section 2.02(c) or upon release of any Renovation Reserves or Debt Service Reserves with respect to any Converted Property, to the extent the Insurance Reserves for such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development have not previously been deposited or are not in compliance with this Section 6.06 on such date) for transfer to the Insurance Reserves Account an amount equal to the Diligence Agent’s estimate of six (6) months of Insurance Premiums with respect to each Financed Property and Financed Single Plat Development (the “Insurance Reserves”) in accordance with this Section 6.06. The Diligence Agent may from time to time revise its reasonable estimate of the amount of the annual Insurance Premiums that will be payable for the renewal of the coverage provided under the Policies covering each Financed Property and Financed Single Plat Development upon the expiration thereof, based on updated information received by the Diligence Agent with respect to the anticipated amount of such Insurance Premiums. Borrowers shall provide to the Administrative Agent and the Diligence Agent an estimate of and supporting information for the amount of the Insurance Premiums for the Policies required to be maintained under this Agreement that relate or are otherwise allocable to each Financed Property and Financed Single Plat Development, pursuant to an allocation methodology reasonably acceptable to Administrative Agent and Diligence Agent in the case of insurance pertaining to multiple Properties or to Borrowers generally, and of any changes thereto occurring from time to time, in order for Diligence Agent to make such estimates of Insurance Premiums pursuant to this Section 6.06. The Borrowers shall provide to the Diligence Agent such certificates, premium amounts due and other evidence as the Diligence Agent may reasonably require.
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(b) Release of Insurance Reserves. Provided no Event of Default is continuing, the Administrative Agent shall apply Insurance Reserves in the Insurance Reserves Account to reimburse Borrowers for payments of Insurance Premiums made by the Borrowers upon the presentation to the Diligence Agent of complete invoices therefor that are reasonably satisfactory to the Diligence Agent. Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent may, or at the direction of the Majority Lenders shall, direct the Paying Agent in writing to withdraw all or any portion of the Insurance Reserves from the Insurance Reserves Account and apply such funds either to pay (i) Insurance Premiums or (ii) the Allocated Loan Amount in respect of each Financed Property, pro rata to each Lender, in such proportion as between items (i) and (ii) above as the Administrative Agent may determine in its sole discretion. In making any payment from the Insurance Reserves Account during an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent may do so according to any bill, statement or estimate procured from the insurer or its agent, without inquiry into the accuracy of such bill, statement or estimate. The right to direct the Paying Agent in writing to withdraw and apply Insurance Reserves in accordance with the foregoing shall be in addition to all other rights and remedies provided to the Administrative Agent or any Lenders under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents. Provided that a Responsible Officer of the Paying Agent has not received written notice that a Default or Event of Default exists and remains uncured, the Paying Agent shall disburse the Insurance Reserves with respect to a Property to the Borrower Representative (as directed in writing by the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 6.11(e)) upon the Refinancing or Transfer of such Property and the payment in full of the applicable Release Amount with respect to such Property (or at the time provided in Section 6.11(g)). Any Insurance Funds remaining in the Insurance Reserve Account after the Obligations have been paid in full shall be returned to Borrower. If as of any Quarterly Determination Date the amount held in the Insurance Reserves Account exceeds the amount required to be held therein pursuant to Section 6.06(a), as set forth in the most recent Monthly Borrower Report and as confirmed by the Diligence Agent (the amount of such excess, the “Excess Insurance Reserves”), the Administrative Agent shall instruct the Paying Agent in writing to disburse to the Collection Account the Excess Insurance Reserves from the Insurance Reserves Account upon satisfaction of each of the following conditions: (i) the Borrower Representative shall have submitted a written request for release to the Administrative Agent at least ten (10) days prior to the date on which the Borrower Representative requests such release be made; provided that only one such request for release shall be permitted to be made in any calendar quarter; and (ii) on the date such request is received by Administrative Agent and on the date such payment is to be made, no Default or Event of Default shall exist and remain uncured.(c)
SECTION 6.07. Standing Reserves. At the time of disbursement of a Property Loan with respect to any Financed Property (or upon release of any Renovation Reserves or Debt Service Reserves with respect to any Converted Property, to the extent the full amount of Standing Reserves for such Financed Property have not previously been deposited into or are not currently on deposit in the Standing Reserves Account), the Borrowers shall pay to the Paying Agent (or such amounts shall be remitted from the proceeds of such Property Loan on such Property pursuant to Section 2.02(c) or upon release of any Renovation Reserves or Debt Service Reserves with respect to any Converted Property, to the extent the full amount of Standing Reserves for such Financed Property have not previously been deposited or are not currently on deposit in the Standing Reserves Account) for deposit into the Standing Reserves Account an amount equal to $300.00 for each Stabilized Property, which amount shall be increased (and Borrower shall, within two (2) Business Days, make such additional deposits as may be required to fund such increase) to (x) as of any date falling on and after the first anniversary of the Closing Date, $400 per Stabilized Property, (y) as of any date falling on and after the second anniversary of the Closing Date, $500 per Stabilized Property, and (z) $650.00 for each Stabilized Property during such time period if the Debt Service Coverage Ratio is less than 1.30:1.00), with a minimum aggregate amount for the Standing Reserves of not less than $200,000 at any time on and after the second anniversary of the Closing Date, on deposit in the Standing Reserves Account) (the sums so deposited the “Standing Reserves”). Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent may, or at the direction of the Majority Lenders shall, direct the Paying Agent in writing to withdraw all or any portion of the Standing Reserves from the Standing Reserves Account and apply such funds either to pay (i) costs and expenses for maintenance or operation of the Properties (as determined by the Administrative Agent or any Servicing Agent in the exercise of their sole discretion acting in good faith) or (ii) the Allocated Loan Amount in respect of each Financed Property, pro rata to each Lender, in such proportion as between items (i) and (ii) above as the Administrative Agent may determine in its sole discretion. The right to direct the Paying Agent in writing to withdraw and apply Standing Reserves in accordance with the foregoing shall be in addition to all other rights and remedies provided to the Administrative Agent or any Lenders under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents. Provided that a Responsible Officer of the Paying Agent has not received written notice that a Default or Event of Default exists and remains uncured, the Paying Agent shall disburse the balance of the Standing Reserves with respect to a Property to the Borrower Representative (as directed in writing by the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 6.11(e)) upon the Refinancing or Transfer of such Property and the payment in full of the applicable Release Amount with respect to such Property.
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SECTION 6.08. Special Reserves. In the event that the Borrowers shall be required pursuant to this Agreement to set aside adequate reserves in connection with any potential liability by depositing such amounts into the Special Reserves Account (the “Special Reserves”), the Borrowers shall provide the Calculation Agent with written notice of any such Special Reserves, and simultaneously with such notice shall deposit such Special Reserves with the Paying Agent for transfer to the Special Reserves Account. Upon the release, discharge or termination of the liability with respect to which such Special Reserves were established (including upon payment thereof with the proceeds of such Special Reserves), as established by such certificates of the Borrower Representative, invoices and other evidence as Administrative Agent may reasonably require, then provided that a Responsible Officer of the Paying Agent has not received written notice that a Default or Event of Default exists and remains uncured, Paying Agent shall disburse the amount of such Special Reserves to the Borrower Representative (as directed in writing by the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 6.11(e)).
SECTION 6.09. [Reserved].
SECTION 6.10. Debt Service Account. The Administrative Agent shall designate and establish the Debt Service Account for the deposit by the Borrowers of payments of interest, fees and, except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, other amounts due Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and/or any other Secured Parties under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents. The Paying Agent shall distribute amounts from the Debt Service Account in accordance with the written instruction of the Administrative Agent (which may be in electronic form) received no later than 4:00 p.m. (New York City time) one (1) Business Day prior to the date of distribution.
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SECTION 6.11. Reserve Accounts Generally.
(a) During the continuance of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders (acting through the Administrative Agent) may direct the Paying Agent in writing to apply any or all the Reserves and other sums then present in any or all of the Reserve Accounts to the payment of the Allocated Loan Amount in respect of each Financed Property, pro rata to each Lender. The right to direct the Paying Agent in writing to withdraw and apply amounts in the Reserve Accounts in accordance with the foregoing shall be in addition to all other rights and remedies provided to the Administrative Agent or any Lenders under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents.
(b) All interest or other earnings on Reserves shall be added to and become a part of such Reserves and shall be disbursed in the same manner as other monies deposited in the applicable Reserve Account. So long as no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, the Borrower Representative shall have the right to direct the investment of sums on deposit in the Reserve Accounts in Permitted Investments if (i) such investments are permitted by applicable Legal Requirements and (ii) the maturity date of the Permitted Investment is not later than the date on which the applicable Reserves are required for payment of an obligation for which the applicable Reserve Account was created. Absent the written instruction of the Borrower Representative, the funds on deposit in the Reserve Accounts shall remain uninvested; provided that, if an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion, shall have the right (but not the obligation) to direct the investment of sums on deposit in the Reserve Accounts in Permitted Investments. The Borrowers shall be responsible for payment of any federal, state or local income or other Taxes applicable to the interest earned on the Reserves credited or paid to any Borrower; provided that, so long as no Default or Event of Default is continuing, such Taxes may be paid from the applicable Reserves, as directed in writing by the Administrative Agent pursuant to Section 6.11(e). No other investments of the sums on deposit in the Reserve Accounts shall be permitted except as set forth in this Section 6.11(b) or Section 2.07(d). Any costs of the account, including with respect to making Permitted Investments in accordance herewith, shall be deducted from the income or earnings on such investment, if any, and to the extent such income or earnings shall not be sufficient to pay such costs, such costs shall be paid by the Borrowers within five (5) Business Days of written demand by the Administrative Agent.
(c) The Paying Agent shall hold each Reserve Account for the benefit of the Secured Parties and Borrowers as provided in the Loan Documents, and each Reserve Account shall be under the sole dominion and control of the Administrative Agent. Each Reserve Account shall be established and entitled as determined by Administrative Agent (in accordance with the terms of this Agreement), including, as Administrative Agent elects, as a sub-account of the Collection Account. The Paying Agent on behalf of the Administrative Agent shall have the sole right to make withdrawals from each Reserve Account.
(d) The Administrative Agent and Paying Agent shall not be liable for any loss sustained on the investment of any funds constituting the Reserves or maintained in the Reserve Accounts. The Borrowers shall indemnify the Administrative Agent and Paying Agent and hold the Administrative Agent and Paying Agent harmless from and against any and all actions, suits, claims, demands, liabilities, losses, damages, obligations and costs and expenses (including litigation costs and reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) arising from or in any way connected with the Reserve Accounts or the performance of the obligations for which the Reserve Accounts were established, including the cost of pursuing the enforcement of this indemnification (including reasonable and documented external attorneys’ fees and expenses); except to the extent caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Administrative Agent or the Paying Agent, as applicable. The Borrowers shall assign to the Administrative Agent all rights and claims the Borrowers may have against all persons or entities supplying labor, materials or other services which are to be paid from or secured by the Reserve Accounts; provided, however, that Administrative Agent may not pursue any such right or claim unless an Event of Default has occurred and remains uncured.
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(e) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Article VI, disbursements of Reserves to the Borrower Representative or any Loan Party shall only occur on the Reserve Release Date upon (i) receipt by the Calculation Agent, the Diligence Agent and the Administrative Agent of a Reserve Release Request from the Borrower Representative not less than five (5) Business Days prior to such date, (ii) delivery by the Calculation Agent to the Administrative Agent for distribution to the Lenders of a report setting forth the results of any applicable calculations required in connection with such Reserve Release Request (the “Reserve Release Request Report”) by no later than three (3) Business Days prior to such date, (iii) receipt by the Administrative Agent of a confirmation from the Diligence Agent of satisfaction of the Converted Property Reserve Release Conditions, as applicable, by no later than three (3) Busines Days prior to such date, and (iv) receipt by the Paying Agent of written instructions provided by the Administrative Agent for the disbursement of funds not later than 4:00 p.m. (New York City time) one (1) Business Day prior to such date and following the satisfaction of all applicable conditions to the release of such Reserves under this Article VI (which written instructions the Administrative Agent agrees to deliver promptly upon receipt of payment instructions from the Borrower Representative); provided, that if the amount of Reserves to be released to the Borrowers on any Reserve Release Date is less than the Minimum Disbursement Amount, then such Reserves shall continue to be maintained in the Reserve Accounts until the next Reserve Release Date on which an amount equal to or greater than the Minimum Disbursement Amount is available for disbursement or until the Final Collection Date.
(f) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, upon the occurrence of the Final Collection Date, the Administrative Agent shall instruct in writing the Paying Agent to release all amounts in any Reserve Account to the Borrower Representative.
(g) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Article VI, in connection with any prepayment required by Section 2.06(b)(v) or (vi) (including in connection with any cure of a Default or an Event of Default), upon the written request of the Borrower Representative, the Administrative Agent shall instruct in writing the Paying Agent to release any related Renovation Reserves, Debt Service Reserves, Special Debt Service Reserves, Tax Reserve and Insurance Reserves associated with the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments that are the subject to such prepayment.
SECTION 6.12. Sponsor Reporting. The Loan Parties shall cause each Sponsor to furnish the following financial reports to the Administrative Agent (and post copies of such financial reports to a data site):
(a) within sixty (60) days after the end of each calendar quarter, unaudited consolidated balance sheets and statements of income and cash flows of such Sponsor, as at the end of such quarter and for the period commencing at the end of the immediately preceding calendar year and ending with the end of such quarter, all in reasonable detail and certified by a Responsible Officer of such Sponsor, as fairly presenting, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of such Persons as of the end of such quarter and the results of operations and cash flows of such Persons for such quarter, in accordance with GAAP as prescribed by the “AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide – Audits of Investment Companies” applied in a manner consistent with that of the most recent audited financial statements of such Person furnished to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnotes; and
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(b) within one hundred twenty (120) days after the end of each calendar year, audited consolidated balance sheets and statements of income and cash flows of such Sponsor, as at the end of such calendar year, setting forth in each case in comparative form the corresponding figures for the immediately preceding calendar year, all in reasonable detail and prepared in accordance with GAAP as prescribed by the “AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide – Audits of Investment Companies”.
ARTICLE VII
EVENTS OF DEFAULT
SECTION 7.01. Events of Default. Each of the following events shall constitute an “Event of Default” hereunder:
(a) the Obligations are not paid in full on the Maturity Date;
(b) default in the payment of any Interest or Fees on the Loans due and payable under this Agreement or any other Loan Document when the same becomes due and payable, and such default shall continue unremedied for a period of two (2) Business Days;
(c) default in the payment, or required prepayment, of the principal amount of the Loans when the same becomes due and payable;
(d) default in the payment of any amount (except Interest, Fees or principal, and except all the Obligations on the Maturity Date) due and payable by any Relevant Party under this Agreement or any other Loan Document when the same becomes due and payable, and such default shall continue for a period of two (2) Business Days following the earlier of the date (i) that any Responsible Officer of any Relevant Party becomes aware of such failure, or (ii) of notice thereof from the Administrative Agent affected Lender to the Borrower Representative;
(e) any Event of Bankruptcy shall occur with respect to any Relevant Party;
(f) (i) any failure on the part of any Loan Party to duly observe or perform any of its covenants set forth in clauses (a), (c), (k), (l) or (dd) of Section 5.01 (other than clauses (k)(i), (ii) and (iii) of Section 5.01 and clause (l)(ii) of Section 5.01), Section 5.03, Section 5.04, Section 5.05 (other than clause (p)(i) of Section 5.05) or in Article VI or of the Risk Retention Sponsor to duly observe or perform any of its covenants set forth in Section 5.07, (ii) any failure on the part of any Loan Party to duly observe or perform any of its covenants set forth in clauses (k)(i), (ii) and (iii) of Section 5.01 that is not capable of being remedied or, if capable of being remedied, continues unremedied for a period of two (2) Business Days; or (iii) any failure on the part of any Loan Party to duly observe or perform any of its covenants set forth in Section 5.06 as of any Quarterly Determination Date that is not capable of being remedied or, if capable of being remedied, continues unremedied after the date of any required prepayment pursuant to Section 2.06(b);
(g) any failure on the part of any Relevant Party to duly observe or perform any of its covenants or agreements set forth in this Agreement or any other Loan Document applicable to such Relevant Party (other than as otherwise described in clauses (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), (h), (i), (j), (k) or (m) in this Section 7.01) that is not capable of being remedied or, if capable of being remedied, continues unremedied for a period of thirty (30) days after the earlier of the date (i) that any Responsible Officer of any Relevant Party becomes aware of such failure, or (ii) of notice thereof from the Administrative Agent or Majority Lenders to the Borrower Representative;
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(h) any failure on the part of any Loan Party to duly observe or perform any of its covenants or agreements set forth in clauses (b), (d), (i) or (u) of Section 5.01, the first two sentences of clause (o) of Section 5.01 or clause (b) of Section 5.05 with respect to any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development, which failure causes such Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development to cease to be an Eligible Property or Approved Single Plat Development (as applicable) if (x) such failure is not cured within the applicable Cure Period (if any) and (y) the Borrowers fail to pay the Release Amount in respect thereof on or prior to the date required pursuant to Section 2.06(b)(v);
(i) (i) the representation and warranty in Section 4.01(m) (or the certifications pursuant to Section 3.02(h) or Section 3.03(h) or (j)) shall fail to be correct with respect to any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development at any time or (ii) the certifications set forth in any Compliance Certificate with respect to (w) a Lease being an Eligible Lease, (x) a Property being an Eligible Property, (y) a Single Plat Development being an Approved Single Plat Development or (z) a lessee being an Eligible Tenant shall fail to be correct in respect of such Financed Property or such Financed Single Plat Development and, with respect to each of clauses (i) and (ii), and, in each case, the Borrowers do not cure such failure within the applicable Cure Period (if any) and fail either (A) to pay the Release Amount in respect thereof or (B) except to the extent such Financed Property or such Financed Single Plat Development fails to satisfy clause (i) or clause (ii) above due to the occurrence of a Prohibited Action, deposit the applicable Release Amount in respect thereof in the amount of 100% of the Allocated Loan Amount in the Debt Service Account, in each case, on or prior to the date required pursuant to Section 2.06(b)(v);
(j) any failure on the part of any Borrower to duly observe or perform any of its covenants set forth in Section 5.05(p)(i) or the representation and warranty in Section 4.01(v)(ii) shall fail to be correct in respect of a Tenant of any Property and, in each case, the applicable Borrower fails to notify OFAC within five (5) Business Days of obtaining knowledge that such Tenant is on any of the lists described in those sections and promptly take such steps as may be required by OFAC with respect to such Tenant;
(k) (i) the representation and warranty in the first and third sentences of Section 4.01(q) shall fail to be correct with respect to any Property Manager at any time or (ii) any Loan Party shall fail to duly observe or perform its covenants set forth in Section 5.01(r)(i) or (ii) with respect to any Property Manager at any time, and, in each case, the Borrowers fail to, (i) within sixty (60) days after the earlier of the date (A) that any Responsible Officer of any Relevant Party becomes aware of such failure of such Property Manager to be a Qualified Property Manager or any such Local Property Manager to satisfy the requirements set forth in the definition thereof, as applicable or (B) of notice thereof from the Administrative Agent or the Majority Lenders, terminate the applicable Management Agreement with such Property Manager, as applicable, and (ii) within ninety (90) days after the earliest to occur of the foregoing (A) or (B), enter into a Replacement Management Agreement with a new Qualified Property Manager or, if such Qualified Property Manager has elected to engage a Local Property Manager pursuant to the terms hereof, new Local Property Manager and provide to the Administrative Agent a copy of the Replacement Management Agreement upon the execution thereof;
(l) any representation, warranty or statement by any Relevant Party or any Responsible Officer of any Relevant Party made in this Agreement or any Loan Document, or any certificate, report or other writing delivered pursuant thereto (other than in Section 4.01(m), the first or third sentence of Section 4.01(q), Section 4.01(v)(iv) or the certifications made pursuant to Section 3.02(k) or set forth in any Compliance Certificate with respect to (w) a Lease being an Eligible Lease, (x) a Property being an Eligible Property, (y) a Single Plat Development being an Approved Single Plat Development or (z) a lessee being an Eligible Tenant shall fail to be correct in respect of such Financed Property or such Financed Single Plat Development), shall prove, with respect to any representation, warranty or statement with no qualification as to materiality, to be incorrect in any material respect, and with respect to any representation, warranty or statement with any qualification as to materiality, to be incorrect in any respect, as of any time when the same shall have been made, and, other than in the case of any representation, warranty or statement made on the Closing Date, if such failure is capable of being remedied, such failure continues unremedied for a period of ten (10) days after the earlier of the date (i) that any Responsible Officer of any Loan Party has knowledge of such failure, or (ii) of notice thereof from the Administrative Agent to the Borrower Representatives;
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(m) (i) any failure on the part of any Loan Party or any other party, as applicable, to duly observe or perform the covenant set forth in Section 5.01(l)(ii) or (ii) any of the assumptions contained in the Insolvency Opinion delivered to the Administrative Agent on the Closing Date, or in any Additional Insolvency Opinion delivered after the Closing Date, is or shall become untrue in any material respect;
(n) (x) any Loan Document shall (except in accordance with its terms or as otherwise provided under the Loan Documents) terminate, cease to be effective or cease to be the legally valid, binding and enforceable obligation of the Loan Party thereto, subject only to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency and similar laws affecting rights of creditors generally, and subject, as to enforceability, to general principles of equity (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or at law), in whole or in part, (y) any Loan Party shall, directly or indirectly, disaffirm or contest in any manner such effectiveness, validity, binding nature or enforceability (other than in accordance with its terms or as a result of the occurrence of the Final Collection Date) or (z) a proceeding shall be commenced by any Governmental Authority of any Relevant Party having jurisdiction over any of them, seeking to establish the invalidity or unenforceability thereof, or any Relevant Party shall deny in writing that it has any liability or obligation purported to be created under any Loan Document (other than in accordance with its terms or as a result of the occurrence of the Final Collection Date);
(o) any Lien purporting (pursuant to the terms and conditions of any Loan Document) to secure any obligation of any Loan Party under the Loan Documents shall, in whole or in part, cease to be a perfected first priority Lien (except to the extent of any prior Lien under any of the other Loan Documents or as otherwise provided under the Loan Documents), subject to Permitted Liens, in favor of the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent, as applicable) for the benefit of the Secured Parties on any portion of the Collateral purported to be covered thereby with a value in excess of $1,000,000;
(p) any Loan Party shall fail to pay any principal of or premium or interest on any indebtedness having a principal amount of $1,000,000 or greater (“Material Indebtedness”), when the same becomes due and payable (whether by scheduled maturity, required prepayment, acceleration, demand or otherwise) and the effect of such failure or breach is to accelerate, or to permit the acceleration of, the maturity of such Material Indebtedness; or any such Material Indebtedness shall be declared to be due and payable, redeemed, purchased or defeased, or an offer to prepay, redeem, purchase or defease such Material Indebtedness shall be required to be made, in each case, prior to the stated maturity thereof;
(q) there shall occur a “termination event” or “event of default” or similar event under any other Loan Document beyond any applicable cure periods contained in such Loan Document if the effect of such “termination event” or “event of default” is to accelerate, or to permit the acceleration of, the maturity of the Loans;
(r) a Change of Control shall occur;
(s) one or more final judgments for the payment of $1,000,000 or more is rendered against any Loan Party, and, in each case, such amount is not covered by insurance or indemnity or not discharged, paid or stayed within thirty (30) days after (i) the date on which the right to appeal thereof has expired if no such appeal has commenced, or (ii) the date on which all rights to appeal have been extinguished;
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(t) any indictment or judgment shall be entered in any investigative, administrative or judicial proceeding involving a determination that any Relevant Party has violated a criminal law or criminal regulation or has been indicted in any criminal investigative, administrative or judicial proceeding or any Relevant Party shall be suspended or otherwise prohibited by any federal, state or local housing authority or other Governmental Authority from participation or eligibility to participate in any applicable program available to owners, landlords or managers of Properties;
(u) if any Loan Party attempts to assign its rights under this Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents or any interest herein or therein in contravention of the Loan Documents;
(v) (i) the BRG Sponsor or the Peak Sponsor fails to comply with any of the Sponsor Financial Covenants applicable to it or (ii) any of the certifications made in any Compliance Certificate with respect to the Sponsor Financial Covenants shall fail to be correct; or
(w) the occurrence of an ERISA Event that could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 7.02. Remedies.
(a) If an Event of Default shall occur and be continuing, the Administrative Agent may, and shall at the request of the Majority Lenders, by written notice to the Borrower Representative, take either or both of the following actions, at the same or different times: (i) terminate the Aggregate Commitment, and thereupon the Aggregate Commitment shall terminate immediately, and (ii) declare all or any portion of the Loans then outstanding to be due and payable, whereupon all or such portion of the outstanding principal of the Loans, all accrued and unpaid interest thereon, all fees and all other amounts payable under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall become due and payable immediately, without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived to the extent permitted by law; and exercise any and all of its other rights and remedies under applicable law, hereunder and under the other Loan Documents; provided, however, that upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of Default described in Section 7.01(e), without any notice to the Borrower Representative or any other Person or any act by Administrative Agent or any Lender, the Aggregate Commitment shall automatically terminate and all outstanding principal of the Loans, together with all accrued and unpaid interest thereon, all fees and all other amounts due under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall become due and payable automatically and immediately, without presentment, demand, protest or notice of any kind, all of which are expressly waived to the extent permitted by law. Upon any such declaration or automatic occurrence, the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and the other Secured Parties shall have, in addition to all other rights and remedies under this Agreement, the other Loan Documents or otherwise, but subject to the following sentence and the limitations set forth in this Article VII and Section 10.09 and any other provision of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, all other rights and remedies provided under the UCC of the applicable jurisdiction and other applicable laws, which rights shall be cumulative. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each Borrower agrees that if an Event of Default is continuing (i) no Secured Party is subject to any “one action” or “election of remedies” law or rule, and (ii) all liens and other rights, remedies or privileges provided to any Secured Party shall remain in full force and effect until each Secured Party has exhausted all of its remedies against the Collateral and any Mortgages have been foreclosed, sold and/or otherwise realized upon in satisfaction of the Obligations or the Obligations have been paid in full.
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(b) With respect to the Borrowers and the Collateral, nothing contained herein or in any other Loan Document shall be construed as requiring any Secured Party to resort to any Collateral for the satisfaction of any of the Obligations in any preference or priority to any other Collateral, and the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent at the direction of the Administrative Agent (or any other applicable Secured Party at the direction of the Administrative Agent) may seek satisfaction out of all of the Collateral or any part thereof, in the absolute discretion of the Administrative Agent in respect of the Obligations. In addition, the Collateral Agent at the direction of the Administrative Agent (or any other applicable Secured Party at the direction of the Administrative Agent) shall have the right from time to time during an Event of Default to partially foreclose any or all of any Mortgages in any manner and for any amounts secured by any Mortgages then due and payable as determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion. During the continuance of any Event of Default pursuant to clause (i) of Section 7.01 or any other monetary Event of Default, the Collateral Agent at the direction of the Administrative Agent (or any other applicable Secured Party at the direction of the Administrative Agent) may during an Event of Default foreclose any or all of the Mortgages to recover the applicable delinquent payments. If, pursuant to its rights set forth in this Section 7.02, the Administrative Agent elects to accelerate less than the entire outstanding principal balance of the Loans, the Collateral Agent at the direction of the Administrative Agent (or any other applicable Secured Party at the direction of the Administrative Agent) may foreclose any or all of the Mortgages to recover so much of the principal balance of the Loans as may be accelerated and such other portions of the Obligations as the Administrative Agent may elect. Notwithstanding any partial foreclosures, the Financed Properties shall remain subject to the Mortgages to secure payment of sums secured by the Mortgages and not previously recovered.
(c) Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent or other applicable Secured Party at the direction of the Administrative Agent) shall have the right from time to time to sever a Note, the Mortgages and the other Loan Documents into one or more separate notes, mortgages and other security documents (the “Severed Loan Documents”) in such denominations as the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent or other applicable Secured Party at the direction of the Administrative Agent) shall determine in its sole discretion for purposes of evidencing and enforcing its rights and remedies provided hereunder. The Borrowers shall execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent (or, if the Administrative Agent shall so instruct, the Collateral Agent) from time to time, promptly after the request of the Administrative Agent, a severance agreement and such other documents as the Administrative Agent (or other applicable Secured Party at the direction of the Administrative Agent) shall request in order to effect the severance described in the preceding sentence, all in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent (and, if applicable, the Collateral Agent). The Borrowers hereby absolutely and irrevocably appoint the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent as its true and lawful attorney, coupled with an interest, in its name and stead to execute the Severed Loan Documents (the Borrowers ratifying all that its said attorney shall do by virtue thereof). The Borrowers are and shall remain obligated to pay any costs or expenses incurred in connection with the preparation, execution, recording or filing of the Severed Loan Documents.
(d) Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, during the continuation of an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent at the direction of the Administrative Agent) on behalf of the Secured Parties without demand of performance or other demand, presentment, protest, advertisement or notice of any kind (except any notice required by law referred to below or required under any Loan Document) to or upon a Borrower or any other Person (all and each of which demands, defenses, advertisements and notices are hereby waived to the extent permitted by law), may in such circumstances forthwith collect, receive, appropriate and realize upon the Collateral, or any part thereof, and/or may forthwith sell, lease, assign, give option or options to purchase, or otherwise dispose of and deliver the Collateral or any part thereof (or contract to do any of the foregoing), at public or private sale or sales, at any exchange, auction or office of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent or elsewhere upon such terms and conditions and at prices that are consistent with the prevailing market for similar collateral as it may deem advisable and at such prices as it may deem best, for cash or on credit or for future delivery without assumption of any credit risk. The Administrative Agent shall apply the net proceeds of any such collection, recovery, receipt, appropriation, realization or sale, after deducting all reasonable costs and expenses of every kind incurred therein or incidental to the care or safekeeping of any of the Collateral or in any way relating to the Collateral or the rights of the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or the Lenders hereunder, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and disbursements, to the payment in whole or in part of the Obligations, in such order as the Administrative Agent may elect, and only after such application and after the payment by the Administrative Agent of any other amount required or permitted by any provision of law, including Section 9-504(1)(c) of the UCC, need the Administrative Agent account for the surplus, if any, to the Borrowers.
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(e) Subject to Article IX, during an Event of Default, the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent at the direction of the Administrative Agent) shall take such actions and pursue such remedies under the Loan Documents, including this Section 7.02, as the Majority Lenders shall direct. Any action by the Administrative Agent related to the Security Deposit Account shall be in accordance with applicable law and the applicable Lease.
SECTION 7.03. Appointment as Attorney in Fact.
(a) Each Loan Party hereby irrevocably constitutes and appoints each of the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and any officer or agent thereof, with full power of substitution, effective during the continuation of any Event of Default, as its true and lawful attorney in fact with full irrevocable power and authority in the place and stead of such Loan Party and in the name of such Loan Party or in its own name, from time to time in the Administrative Agent’s discretion, for the purpose of carrying out the terms of this Agreement, to take any and all appropriate action and to execute any and all documents and instruments which may be necessary or desirable to accomplish the purposes of this Agreement, and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each Loan Party hereby gives the Administrative Agent (and the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent) the power and right, on behalf of such Loan Party, without assent by, but with notice to, such Loan Party, if an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, to do the following:
(i) in the name of such Loan Party or its own name, or otherwise, to take possession of and endorse and collect any checks, drafts, notes, acceptances or other instruments for the payment of moneys due under or with respect to any other Collateral and to file any claim or to take any other action or proceeding in any court of law or equity or otherwise deemed appropriate by the Administrative Agent for the purpose of collecting any and all such moneys with respect to any other Collateral whenever payable;
(ii) to pay or discharge taxes and Liens levied or placed on or threatened against the Collateral; and
(iii) (A) to direct any party liable for any payment under any Collateral to make payment of any and all moneys due or to become due thereunder directly to the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent or as the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent shall direct; (B) to ask or demand for, collect, receive payment of and receipt for, any and all moneys, claims and other amounts due or to become due at any time in respect of or arising out of any Collateral; (C) to sign and endorse any invoices, assignments, verifications, notices and other documents in connection with any of the Collateral; (D) to commence and prosecute any suits, actions or proceedings at law or in equity in any court of competent jurisdiction to collect the Collateral or any thereof and to enforce any other right in respect of any Collateral; (E) to defend any suit, action or proceeding brought against the Loan Parties with respect to any Collateral; (F) to settle, compromise or adjust any suit, action or proceeding described in clause (E) above and, in connection therewith, to give such discharges or releases as the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent) may deem appropriate; and (G) generally, to sell, transfer, pledge and make any agreement with respect to or otherwise deal with any of the Collateral as fully and completely as though the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent were the absolute owner thereof for all purposes, and to do, at the option of the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent) and the Loan Parties’ expense, at any time, or from time to time, all acts and things which the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent) deems necessary to protect, preserve or realize upon the Collateral and the Lien of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties thereon and to effect the intent of this Agreement, all as fully and effectively as the Loan Parties might do.
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The Loan Parties hereby ratify all that such attorneys shall lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. This power of attorney is a power coupled with an interest and shall be irrevocable until the Final Collection Date.
(b) The powers conferred on the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent are solely to protect the Administrative Agent’s and the Collateral Agent’s (for the benefit of the Secured Parties) interests in the Collateral and shall not impose any duty upon the Administrative Agent to exercise any such powers. The Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent shall be accountable only for amounts that it actually receives as a result of the exercise of such powers, and none of the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or any of its officers, directors, or employees shall be responsible to the Loan Parties for any act or failure to act hereunder, except for its own gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct.
SECTION 7.04. Powers Coupled with an Interest. All authorizations and agencies herein contained with respect to the Collateral are irrevocable and powers coupled with an interest.
ARTICLE VIII
INDEMNIFICATION
SECTION 8.01. Indemnities by the Loan Parties. Without limiting any other rights which any Affected Party may have hereunder or under applicable law (including the right to recover damages for breach of contract), the Loan Parties hereby agree to indemnify on a joint and several basis each of the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all damages, losses, claims, liabilities and related costs and expenses, including reasonable external attorneys’ fees and disbursements (which shall be limited to attorneys’ fees and disbursements of one counsel to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders and one local counsel in each applicable jurisdiction) and Taxes (all of the foregoing being collectively referred to as “Indemnified Amounts”), awarded against or incurred by such Indemnified Party to the extent relating to or arising from or as a result of this Agreement or the funding or maintenance of Loans made by a Lender hereunder subject to the proviso set forth below. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing indemnification, the Loan Parties shall jointly and severally indemnify the Indemnified Parties for Indemnified Amounts to the extent relating to or resulting from any of the following:
(i) the failure of any Property represented by any Borrower to be an Eligible Property hereunder to be an “Eligible Property” at the time of such representation;
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(ii) reliance on any representation or warranty made or deemed made by any Relevant Party under this Agreement or any other Loan Document to which it is a party which shall have been false or incorrect when made or deemed made;
(iii) the failure by any Relevant Party to comply with any term, provision or covenant contained in this Agreement or any other Loan Document to which it is party or with any applicable Legal Requirement with respect to any Property or Collateral, or the nonconformity of any Property or Collateral with any such Legal Requirement;
(iv) the failure to pay when due any Taxes, including sales, excise or personal property Taxes payable by any Loan Party in connection with any Property or Collateral;
(v) the failure to vest and maintain vested in the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent, on behalf of the Secured Parties, a first priority perfected security interest in the Collateral, free and clear of any Adverse Claim, whether existing at the time such Collateral arose or at any time thereafter;
(vi) the failure to file, or any delay in filing, financing statements or other similar instruments or documents under the applicable UCC or other applicable laws naming the applicable Borrower as “Debtor” with respect to any Collateral;
(vii) the commingling of Collections with any other funds;
(viii) any investigation, litigation or proceeding related to this Agreement or the use of proceeds of Loans made pursuant to this Agreement or any other Loan Document delivered hereunder or in respect of any of the Collateral;
(ix) the grant by any Borrower of a security interest in any Collateral in violation of any applicable law, rule or regulation;
provided, however, that the Loan Parties shall not be required to indemnify any Indemnified Party for any damages, losses, claims, liabilities, costs or expenses (x) directly resulting from the gross negligence, fraud or willful misconduct of such Indemnified Party or (y) constituting Excluded Taxes. Any amounts subject to the indemnification provisions of this Section 8.01 shall be paid by the Loan Parties to the related Indemnified Party within five (5) Business Days following written demand therefor.
SECTION 8.02. Limited Liability of Parties. No Indemnified Party shall have any liability (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) to the Loan Parties, except to the extent such liability is determined in a final non-appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted from such Indemnified Party’s gross negligence, fraud or willful misconduct. It is understood and agreed that any statement in this Agreement that the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or any Servicing Agent “will” or “shall” perform any action hereunder shall not be construed as a covenant of such Person in favor of any Loan Party.
ARTICLE IX
THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT; THE COLLATERAL AGENT
SECTION 9.01. Authorization and Action. Each Lender hereby appoints and authorizes the Administrative Agent (and, upon designation thereof by the Administrative Agent, each Servicing Agent) to take such action as agent on its behalf (including execution of the other Loan Documents) and to exercise such powers under this Agreement as are delegated to the Administrative Agent (or such Servicing Agent) by the terms of the Loan Documents, together with such powers as are reasonably incidental thereto. The Administrative Agent hereby appoints and authorizes the Collateral Agent to take such action as agent on its behalf with respect to the Mortgages (including execution of any Mortgages) and to exercise such powers under this Agreement as are delegated to the Collateral Agent by the terms of the Loan Documents, together with such powers as are reasonably incidental thereto. Except for the Borrowers’ rights to approve a successor Administrative Agent as provided in Section 9.07, the provisions of this Article IX are solely for the benefit of the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and the Lenders (except to the extent that the provisions of Section 9.07 benefit the Borrowers and/or the Borrower Representative) and the Borrowers shall not have any rights as a third-party beneficiary or otherwise under any of the other provisions hereof. The Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent shall not have any duties or obligations except those expressly set forth in the Loan Documents. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, (a) neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall be subject to any fiduciary or other implied duties, regardless of whether a Default has occurred and is continuing, (b) neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall have any duty to take any discretionary action or exercise any discretionary powers, except discretionary rights and powers expressly contemplated by the Loan Documents that the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent) is required to exercise in writing including as directed by the Majority Lenders (or such other number or percentage of the Lenders as shall be necessary under the circumstances as provided in this Agreement); provided that neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall be required to take any action that, in its opinion or the opinion of its counsel, may expose the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent to liability or that is contrary to any Loan Document or applicable law, including for the avoidance of doubt any action that may be in violation of the automatic stay under the Bankruptcy Code or that may effect a forfeiture, modification or termination of property of a Defaulting Lender in violation of the Bankruptcy Code, and (c) except as expressly set forth in the Loan Documents, neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall have any duty to disclose, and shall not be liable for the failure to disclose, any information relating to any Relevant Party, or any of their respective Subsidiaries that is communicated to or obtained by the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent or any of its Affiliates in any capacity.
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SECTION 9.02. Agents’ Reliance, Etc. None of the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent nor any of its directors, officers, agents or employees shall be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken by it or the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent under or in connection with this Agreement (i) with the consent or at the request of the Majority Lenders or (ii) in the absence of its or their own gross negligence, fraud or willful misconduct. Neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall be deemed to have knowledge of any Default unless and until written notice thereof is given to the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent, as applicable, by a Borrower or a Lender, and neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall be responsible for or have any duty to ascertain or inquire into (i) any statement, warranty or representation made in or in connection with any Loan Document, (ii) the contents of any certificate, report or other document delivered hereunder or in connection with any Loan Document, (iii) the performance or observance of any of the covenants, agreements or other terms or conditions set forth in any Loan Document, (iv) the creation, perfection or priority of Liens on the Collateral or the existence of the Collateral, or (v) the satisfaction of any condition set forth in Article III or elsewhere in any Loan Document, other than to confirm receipt of items expressly required to be delivered to the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent, as applicable. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent: (i) may consult with legal counsel (including counsel for the Borrowers), independent public accountants and other experts selected by it and shall not be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken in good faith by it in accordance with the advice of such counsel, accountants or experts; (ii) makes no warranty or representation to any Lender and shall not be responsible to any Lender for any statements, warranties or representations made in or in connection with this Agreement; (iii) shall not be responsible to any Lender for the due execution, legality, validity, enforceability, genuineness, sufficiency or value of this Agreement or any other instrument or document furnished pursuant hereto; and (v) shall incur no liability under or in respect of this Agreement by acting upon any notice (including notice by telephone), consent, certificate or other instrument or writing (which may be by electronic mail) believed by it to be genuine and signed or sent by the proper party or parties. The Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent shall be entitled to rely upon, and shall not incur any liability for relying upon, any notice, request, certificate, consent, statement, instrument, document or other writing believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or sent by the proper Person. Each of the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent also may rely upon any statement made to it orally or by telephone and believed by it to be made by the proper Person, and shall not incur any liability for relying thereon.
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SECTION 9.03. Agents and Affiliates. Each of the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent, as applicable, shall have the same rights and powers in its capacity as a Lender as any other Lender and may exercise the same as though it were not the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent, as applicable, and such bank and its Affiliates may accept deposits from, lend money to and generally engage in any kind of business with the Loan Parties or any Subsidiary of a Loan Party or other Affiliate thereof and any Person who may do business with or own securities of the Loan Parties or any of their respective Affiliates, all as if such Persons were not Lenders and/or Administrative Agent and/or Collateral Agent and without any duty to account therefor to any Lender.
SECTION 9.04. Lender’s Loan Decision. Each Lender acknowledges that it has, independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or any other Lender or any of their respective Affiliates, and based on such documents and information as it has deemed appropriate, made its own evaluation and decision to enter into this Agreement and, if it so determines, to make Loans hereunder. Each Lender also acknowledges that it will, independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or any other Lender or any of their respective Affiliates, and based on such documents and information as it shall deem appropriate at the time, continue to make its own decisions in taking or not taking action under this Agreement.
SECTION 9.05. Delegation of Duties. Each of the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent may delegate any of its duties under this Agreement by or through sub-agents, service providers or attorneys-in-fact and shall be entitled to advice of counsel concerning all matters pertaining to such duties. Neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall be responsible for the negligence or misconduct of any sub-agents, service providers (including any Servicing Agents) or attorneys-in-fact selected by it with reasonable care in the absence of the Administrative Agent’s gross negligence, fraud or willful misconduct. The Loan Parties will reimburse the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent for any fees, costs or expenses incurred by the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent, respectively, with respect to any agents, service providers or attorneys-in-fact appointed by the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent pursuant to this Section.
SECTION 9.06. Indemnification. Each Lender severally agrees to indemnify the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and their respective directors, officers, employees, affiliates, advisors and sub-agents and the parent company or holding company that controls such Person (the “Indemnified Agent Parties”) (to the extent not reimbursed by the Loan Parties, the Equity Owners pursuant to the Equity Owner Guaranty or a Sponsor pursuant to its Sponsor Guaranty), ratably according to such Lender’s Lender Percentage, from and against any and all liabilities, obligations, losses, damages, penalties, actions, judgments, suits, costs, expenses or disbursements of any kind or nature whatsoever which may be imposed on, incurred by, or asserted against such Indemnified Agent Party in any way relating to or arising out of this Agreement or any action taken or omitted by such Indemnified Agent Party under this Agreement; provided, that no Lender shall be required to indemnify any Indemnified Agent Party to the extent of any amounts resulting from the gross negligence, fraud or willful misconduct of such Indemnified Agent Party. Without limitation of the generality of the foregoing, each Lender agrees to reimburse each of the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent, ratably according to such Lender’s Lender Percentage, promptly upon demand, for any reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including reasonable counsel fees) incurred by the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent in connection with the administration, modification, amendment or enforcement (whether through negotiations, legal proceedings or otherwise) of, or legal advice in respect of rights or responsibilities under, this Agreement.
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SECTION 9.07. Successor Agents. Each of the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent may, upon thirty (30) days’ notice to the Borrower Representative, each Lender and each other party hereto, resign as Administrative Agent or Collateral Agent, as applicable. Any successor Collateral Agent shall be appointed by the Administrative Agent subject to providing notice thereof to the Lenders and the absence of objection thereto by the Majority Lenders within five (5) Business Days after being notified thereof (or such shorter period in which the Majority Lenders consent thereto) and upon such appointment such successor agent shall succeed to the rights, powers and duties of the Collateral Agent, and references herein to the Collateral Agent shall mean such successor agent, effective upon its appointment; and such former Collateral Agent’s rights, powers and duties in such capacity shall be terminated, without any other or further act or deed on the part of such former Collateral Agent or any of the parties to this Agreement. If any party shall resign as Administrative Agent under this Agreement, then, the Supermajority Lenders and, if no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Borrower Representative, during such thirty-day period shall appoint a successor agent, whereupon such successor agent shall succeed to the rights, powers and duties of the Administrative Agent, and references herein to the Administrative Agent shall mean such successor agent, effective upon its appointment; and such former Administrative Agent’s rights, powers and duties in such capacity shall be terminated, without any other or further act or deed on the part of such former Administrative Agent or any of the parties to this Agreement. After any retiring Administrative Agent’s or Collateral Agent’s resignation hereunder as such agent, the provisions of Article VIII, this Article IX and Section 10.09 shall inure to its benefit as to any actions taken or omitted to be taken by it while it was Administrative Agent or Collateral Agent, as applicable, under this Agreement. Any successor Administrative Agent that is not a Lender must be a nationally-recognized financial institution that provides administrative agency services in the ordinary course of its business.
SECTION 9.08. Enforcement and Collateral Matters.
(a) The Lenders are not partners or co-venturers, and no Lender shall be liable for the acts or omissions of, or (except as otherwise set forth herein in case of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent) authorized to act for, any other Lender. The Administrative Agent (and the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent) shall have the exclusive right on behalf of the Lenders to enforce the payment of the principal of and interest on any Loan after the date such principal or interest has become due and payable pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.
(b) Each of the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent in such capacity is a “representative” and “agent” of the Secured Parties within the meaning of the term “secured party” as defined in the New York Uniform Commercial Code. Each Lender authorizes the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent to enter into each of the Collateral Documents to which it is a party, each Sponsor Guaranty and the Equity Owner Guaranty and to take all action contemplated by such documents. Each Lender agrees that no Secured Party (other than the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent) shall have the right individually to seek to realize upon the security granted by any Collateral Document or any rights granted under any Sponsor Guaranty or the Equity Owner Guaranty, it being understood and agreed that such rights and remedies may be exercised solely by the Administrative Agent (and the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent) for the benefit of the Secured Parties upon the terms of such documents. In the event that any Collateral is hereafter pledged by any Person as collateral security for the Obligations, each of the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent is hereby authorized, and is hereby granted a power of attorney, to execute and deliver on behalf of the Secured Parties any Loan Documents necessary or appropriate to grant and perfect a Lien on such Collateral in favor of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent on behalf of the Secured Parties. The Lenders hereby authorize the Administrative Agent (and the Collateral Agent as directed by the Administrative Agent), at its option and in its discretion, to release any Lien granted to or held by the Administrative Agent (or the Collateral Agent) upon any Collateral (i) as described in Section 2.17; (ii) as permitted by, but only in accordance with, the terms of the applicable Loan Document; or (iii) if approved, authorized or ratified in writing by the Majority Lenders, unless such release is required to be approved by all of the Lenders hereunder; provided that, for the avoidance of doubt, Section 10.01(a)(iii) shall not apply to any exercise of rights or remedies by the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent following the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default. Upon request by the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent at any time, the Lenders shall confirm in writing the Administrative Agent’s (or the Collateral Agent’s) authority to release particular types or items of Collateral pursuant hereto. Upon any sale or transfer of assets constituting Collateral which is permitted pursuant to the terms of any Loan Document, or consented to in writing by the Majority Lenders or all of the Lenders, as applicable, the Administrative Agent shall (and is hereby irrevocably authorized by the Lenders to) take, or shall instruct the Collateral Agent to take, such actions as set forth in Section 2.17; provided, however, that (i) neither the Administrative Agent nor the Collateral Agent shall be required to execute any such document on terms which, in the Administrative Agent’s or the Collateral Agent’s opinion, would expose the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent to liability or create any obligation or entail any consequence other than the release of such Liens without recourse or warranty, and (ii) the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent may require the Borrowers to confirm prior to any release that such release shall not in any manner discharge, affect or impair the Obligations or any Liens upon (or obligations of any Borrower or any other Loan Party in respect of) all interests retained by the Borrowers or any other Loan Party, including the proceeds of the sale (as and to the extent provided above), all of which shall continue to constitute part of the Collateral.
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SECTION 9.09. Erroneous Payments.
(a) Each Lender hereby agrees that (i) if the Administrative Agent notifies such Lender that the Administrative Agent has determined in its sole discretion that any funds received by such Lender from the Administrative Agent or any of its Affiliates were erroneously transmitted to, or otherwise erroneously or mistakenly received by, such Lender (whether or not known to such Lender) (whether as a payment, prepayment or repayment of principal, interest, fees or otherwise; individually and collectively, an “Erroneous Payment”) and demands the return of such Erroneous Payment (or a portion thereof), such Lender shall promptly, but in no event later than one (1) Business Day thereafter, return to the Administrative Agent the amount of any such Erroneous Payment (or portion thereof) as to which such a demand was made, in same day funds (in the currency so received), together with interest thereon in respect of each day from and including the date such Erroneous Payment (or portion thereof) was received by such Lender to the date such amount is repaid to the Administrative Agent in same day funds at the greater of the Prime Index Rate and a rate determined by the Administrative Agent in accordance with banking industry rules on interbank compensation from time to time in effect and (ii) to the extent permitted by applicable law, such Lender shall not assert any right or claim to the Erroneous Payment, and hereby waives, any claim, counterclaim, defense or right of set-off or recoupment with respect to any demand, claim or counterclaim by the Administrative Agent for the return of any Erroneous Payments received, including without limitation waiver of any defense based on “discharge for value” or any similar doctrine. A notice of the Administrative Agent to any Lender under this clause (a) shall be conclusive, absent manifest error.
(b) Without limiting the immediately preceding clause (a), each Lender hereby further agrees that if it receives an Erroneous Payment from the Administrative Agent (or any of its Affiliates) (x) that is in a different amount than, or on a different date from, that specified in a notice of payment sent by the Administrative Agent (or any of its Affiliates) with respect to such Erroneous Payment (an “Erroneous Payment Notice”), or (y) that such Lender otherwise becomes aware was transmitted, or received, in error or by mistake (in whole or in part), in each case, such Erroneous Payment was an error (and that such Lender is deemed to have knowledge of such error at the time of receipt of such Erroneous Payment) and to the extent permitted by applicable law, such Lender shall not assert any right or claim to the Erroneous Payment, and hereby waives, any claim, counterclaim, defense or right of set-off or recoupment with respect to any demand, claim or counterclaim by the Administrative Agent for the return of any Erroneous Payments received, including without limitation waiver of any defense based on “discharge for value” or any similar doctrine. Each Lender agrees that, in each such case, it shall promptly (and, in all events, within one (1) Business Day of its knowledge (or deemed knowledge) of such error) notify the Administrative Agent of such occurrence and, upon demand from the Administrative Agent, it shall promptly, but in all events no later than (1) one Business Day thereafter, return to the Administrative Agent the amount of any such Erroneous Payment (or portion thereof) as to which such a demand was made in same day funds (in the currency so received), together with interest thereon in respect of each day from and including the date such Erroneous Payment (or portion thereof) was received by such Lender to the date such amount is repaid to the Administrative Agent in same day funds at the greater of the Prime Index Rate and a rate determined by the Administrative Agent in accordance with banking industry rules on interbank compensation from time to time in effect.
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(c) Each Lender, each Borrower and each other Loan Party hereby agree that (x) in the event an Erroneous Payment (or portion thereof) is not recovered from any Lender that has received such Erroneous Payment (or portion thereof) for any reason, the Administrative Agent shall be subrogated to all the rights of or against such Lender with respect to such amount and (y) an Erroneous Payment shall not pay, prepay, repay, discharge or otherwise satisfy any Obligations owed by the Borrowers or any other Loan Party except to the extent such Erroneous Payment is, and solely with respect to the amount of such Erroneous Payment that is, comprised of funds received by the Administrative Agent from the Loan Parties for the purpose of making such Erroneous Payment.
(d) Each party’s obligations under this Section 9.09 shall survive the resignation or replacement of the Administrative Agent, the termination of any commitments or the repayment, satisfaction or discharge of all Obligations (or any portion thereof) under any Loan Document.
ARTICLE X
MISCELLANEOUS
SECTION 10.01. Amendments, Etc.
(a) Amendments. No amendment to this Agreement shall be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by each of the Loan Parties, the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders, and no waiver of any provision of this Agreement nor consent to any departure by the Loan Parties therefrom shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given; provided, however, that no such waiver or amendment shall:
(i) extend the Maturity Date (other than pursuant to an Extension Term) without the written consent of each Lender directly affected thereby;
(ii) extend the date scheduled for payment of the principal amount of, or accrued interest on, the Loans, without the written consent of each Lender (it being understood that any amendments, modifications or waivers of this Agreement otherwise in accordance with the terms of this Section 10.01 shall not, merely because such amendments, modifications or waivers may have the effect of delaying or otherwise affecting any requirement for payment of amounts hereunder, constitute an extension of the date scheduled for the payment of principal or interest);
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(iii) other than in connection with a transfer permitted under Section 5.05(c) or Section 5.05(f), release the security interest in or transfer all or a substantial portion of the Collateral or release the guarantee of any Guarantor (except as specifically permitted in such guarantee), in each case, without the written consent of each Lender;
(iv) otherwise amend, modify or waive any provision of the guarantee of any Guarantor without the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders; provided that, for the avoidance of doubt, any amendment, modification or waiver that purports to release, or has the effect of releasing the guarantee of any Guarantor shall be subject to compliance with Section 10.01(a)(iii) above;
(v) change the outstanding principal amount of any of the Loans made by any Lender hereunder or reduce the rate of interest thereon other than as provided herein without the written consent of such Lender;
(vi) change the amount of any Lender’s Commitment other than as provided herein without the written consent of such Lender;
(vii) amend, modify or waive any provision of the definitions of “Supermajority Lenders”, “Majority Lenders” or “Collateral” or this Section 10.01 without the written consent of each Lender;
(viii) amend Section 10.07 in a manner that would alter the pro rata sharing of payments required thereby or amend (but not waive) Section 2.07(c) in any manner that would alter the priority of payments, in each case, without the written consent of each Lender;
(ix) amend, modify or waive any provision of Section 5.05(b), (c), (d), (f), (g) or (i) without the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders;
(x) amend, modify or waive any provision of Section 5.05(b) or (i) to the extent the effect of any such amendment, modification or waiver would permit the Borrowers to grant Mortgages on the Financed Properties and/or Financed Single Plat Developments to any Person other than the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent in its capacity as Administrative Agent or Collateral Agent under this Agreement with a priority senior to that of the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent hereunder without the written consent of each Lender;
(xi) amend, modify or waive any provision of Section 5.04 or Article VI without the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders;
(xii) amend, modify or waive the definition of “Permitted Liens” or clause 2 (Adverse Claims) of Schedule I hereto without the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders;
(xiii) other than in connection with a transfer permitted under Section 5.05(c) or Section 5.05(f), consent to or permit the assignment or transfer by the Loan Parties or any of their rights and obligations under this Agreement or of any of their right, title or interest in or to the Collateral without the written consent of each Lender; or
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(xiv) amend, modify or waive any provision of the definition of “Sponsor Financial Covenants” or waive any provision of Section 5.06, without the written consent of the Supermajority Lenders, or amend or modify (but not waive) any provision of Section 5.06 without the written consent of each Lender;
provided, however, that no such agreement shall amend, modify or otherwise affect the rights, powers, privileges, protections, indemnities, immunities, or, except to a de minimis extent, duties of the Calculation Agent or the Paying Agent hereunder without the prior written consent of the Calculation Agent or the Paying Agent, as applicable, and written notice of any other amendment or waiver hereunder shall be delivered to the Calculation Agent or the Paying Agent via email at the addresses set forth on Schedule III hereto at least three (3) Business Days prior to the effective date of the amendment unless the Borrower received such amendment less than three (3) Business Days prior to the effective date, in which case such amendment shall be provided to the Calculation Agent and Paying Agent no later than on the same Business Day received by the Borrower. Neither the Calculation Agent nor the Paying Agent shall have any liability for any amendment, supplement or waiver of which it did not receive notice. To the extent any amendment affects the rights, powers, privileges, protections, indemnities, immunities or duties of the Calculation Agent or the Paying Agent, all reasonable fee, costs and expenses (including reasonable and documented out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by the Calculation Agent or the Paying Agent in reviewing such amendment or waiver shall be paid or reimbursed by the Borrowers. For purposes of this Section 10.01, each Approved Participant to whom a related Assigning Lender assigned its voting rights shall be deemed to be a “Lender” whose consent shall be required to the same extent as consent of any other Lender that would otherwise be required.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 10.01(a), guarantees, collateral security documents and related documents executed by Loan Parties in connection with this Agreement may be in a form reasonably determined by the Administrative Agent and may be, together with this Agreement, amended, supplemented and waived with the consent of the Administrative Agent at the request of the Borrower Representative without the need to obtain the consent of any other Lender if such amendment, supplement or waiver is delivered in order (i) to comply with local law or advice of local counsel, (ii) to cure ambiguities, omissions, mistakes or defects or (iii) to cause such guarantee, collateral security document or other document to be consistent with this Agreement and the other Loan Documents.
(b) Additional State-Specific Provisions. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in Section 10.01(a) above, (i) if any Financed Properties or Financed Single Plat Developments are located in any State other than Indiana, Missouri or Texas, or (ii) if the Administrative Agent determines in its sole discretion that any State-specific provisions set forth in Section 10.18 do not adequately reflect provisions that address local law matters for any applicable State, in each case as determined by the Administrative Agent in its sole discretion, with the written consent of the Borrowers, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent or any Lender, may amend Section 10.18 of this Agreement to include additional State-specific provisions that address local law matters for such State that are customarily addressed in financing agreements for single family rental securitizations. The Administrative Agent shall provide written notice to the Loan Parties, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent and the Lenders of any such amendment. No consent of any other Loan Party, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent, any Lender or any other Person shall be required for any such amendment to become effective.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 10.01, if the Administrative Agent and the Borrowers have jointly identified an ambiguity, omission, mistake or defect in any provision of this Agreement or an inconsistency between provisions of this Agreement, the Administrative Agent and the Borrowers shall be permitted to amend such provision or provisions to cure such ambiguity, omission, mistake, defect or inconsistency so long as to do so would not adversely affect the rights, privileges, protections, indemnities, duties or interests of the Lenders, the Calculation Agent or the Paying Agent. Any such amendment shall become effective without any further action or consent of any of other party to this Agreement; provided that the Administrative Agent shall provide written notice of any such amendment to the Lenders, the Calculation Agent and the Paying Agent.
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SECTION 10.02. Notices, Etc. All notices and other communications provided for hereunder shall, unless otherwise stated herein, be in writing (including communication by electronic mail) and shall be personally delivered or sent by registered mail, return receipt requested, or by overnight courier or by electronic mail, to each party hereto, at its address set forth on Schedule III or at such other address as shall be designated by such party in a written notice to the other parties hereto. All such notices and communications shall be effective, upon receipt, or in the case of overnight courier, two (2) days after being deposited with such courier, or, in the case of notice by electronic mail, when electronic confirmation of receipt is obtained, in each case addressed as aforesaid. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the parties hereto acknowledge and agree that any notice of Default or Event of Default, or any notice stating that there is an event, condition, failure or deficiency which if not cured would, with appropriate notice, if any, or expiration of any cure period, if any, be a Default or Event of Default, delivered by the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, any Servicing Agent or any Lender to any Relevant Party shall be personally delivered or sent by registered mail, return receipt requested, or by overnight courier.
SECTION 10.03. Assignability.
(a) Any Lender may assign to one or more assignees (provided that no assignments shall be made to any Loan Party or its Affiliates or to a natural Person or, so long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, to a competitor) all or a portion of its rights and obligations under this Agreement (including all or a portion of its Commitment and the Loans at the time owing to it), with the prior written consent of the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld; it being acknowledged and agreed that it will be reasonable for the Borrower Representative to withhold its consent to any assignment that includes any unfunded commitment to an entity that does not either have a rating of its senior unsecured debt obligations of not less than investment grade or assets in excess of $2,000,000,000) and the Administrative Agent; provided that no consent of the Borrower Representative or the Administrative Agent shall be required (x) for an assignment to a Lender, an Affiliate of a Lender or an Approved Fund, (y) during any Extension Term or (z) if an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, for an assignment to any other assignee (in each case, subject to the last sentence of this Section 10.03(a)); provided, further, that the Borrower Representative shall be deemed to have consented to any such assignment unless it shall object thereto by written notice to the Administrative Agent within five (5) Business Days after having received notice thereof. Notwithstanding anything in the foregoing to the contrary, the consent of the Borrower Representative shall be required for any assignment to any assignee that is in the business of owning and renting single family homes in the United States or to any Affiliate of any such entity (which consent may be withheld in the sole discretion of the Borrower).
(b) With respect to any assignment hereunder
(i) each such assignment shall be of a constant, and not a varying, percentage of all rights and obligations under this Agreement, and
(ii) the parties to each such assignment shall execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent, for its acceptance and recording in the Register (as defined below), an Assignment and Acceptance, together with a processing and recordation fee of $2,500.
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(c) Upon such execution, delivery, acceptance and recording from and after the effective date specified in such Assignment and Acceptance, (x) the assignee thereunder shall be a party to this Agreement and, to the extent that rights and obligations under this Agreement have been assigned to it pursuant to such Assignment and Acceptance, have the rights and obligations of a Lender thereunder and (y) the assigning Lender shall, to the extent that rights and obligations have been assigned by it pursuant to such Assignment and Acceptance, relinquish such rights and be released from such obligations under this Agreement (and, in the case of an Assignment and Acceptance covering all or the remaining portion of an assigning Lender’s rights and obligations under this Agreement, such Lender shall cease to be a party hereto). At all times during which any Loan is outstanding, the Administrative Agent shall maintain at its address referred to in Section 10.02 of this Agreement (or such other address of the Administrative Agent notified by the Administrative Agent to the other parties hereto) a register as provided herein (the “Register”). The names and addresses of the Lenders, the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance (and stated interest) and any interests therein, and any Assignments and Acceptances of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance or any interest therein delivered to and accepted by the Administrative Agent, shall be registered in the Register, and the Register shall serve as a record of ownership that identifies the owner of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balances and any interest therein. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, no transfer of the Aggregate Loan Principal Balances or any interest therein shall be effective unless and until such transfer has been recorded in the Register. The entries in the Register shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes, absent manifest error, and the Borrowers, the Administrative Agent and the Lenders shall treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Register as a Lender, as the case may be, under this Agreement for all purposes of this Agreement. This Section 10.03(c) shall be construed so that the Aggregate Loan Principal Balance and any interest therein is maintained at all times in “registered form” within the meaning of Sections 163(f), 871(h) and 881(c) of the Code. Solely for the purposes of this Section 10.03(c), the Administrative Agent will act as a non-fiduciary agent of the Borrowers. The Register shall be available for inspection by the Borrowers or any Lender at any reasonable time and from time to time upon reasonable prior notice.
(d) Upon its receipt of an Assignment and Acceptance, the Administrative Agent shall, if such Assignment and Acceptance has been duly completed, (i) accept such Assignment and Acceptance, (ii) record the information contained therein in the Register and (iii) give prompt written notice thereof to the Borrowers and to the Calculation Agent.
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(e) Any Lender may, without the consent of any Loan Party (except in the case of participations to Approved Participants as described below), at no cost to any Loan Party, sell participations to one or more Persons (each, a “Participant”) in all or a portion of its rights and obligations hereunder (including the outstanding Loans); provided that following the sale of a participation under this Agreement (i) the obligations of such Lender shall remain unchanged, (ii) such Lender shall remain solely responsible to the other parties hereto for the performance of such obligations and (iii) the Borrowers, the Administrative Agent and the other Lenders shall continue to deal solely and directly with such Lender in connection with such Lender’s rights and obligations under this Agreement. Any agreement or instrument pursuant to which such Lender sells such a participation shall provide that the Participant shall not have any right to direct the enforcement of this Agreement or the other Loan Documents or to approve any amendment, modification or waiver of any provision of this Agreement or the other Loan Documents; provided that such agreement or instrument may provide that such Lender will not, without the consent of the Participant, agree to any amendment, modification or waiver that (i) increases the Commitment participated to such Participant, (ii) reduces the amount of principal or Interest that is payable on account of any Loan or delays any scheduled date for payment thereof, (iii) reduces any fees payable by the Borrowers to the Administrative Agent (to the extent relating to payments to the Participant) or delays any scheduled date for payment of such fees, (iv) extends the Maturity Date (other than pursuant to an Extension Term), (v) other than as permitted by this Agreement, releases the security interest in substantially all of the Collateral or releases guarantees of all or substantially all Guarantors or (vi) amends, modifies or waives any provision of the definition of “Majority Lenders” or Section 10.01. The Borrowers acknowledge and agree that any Lender’s source of funds may derive in part from its Participants. Accordingly, references in Section 2.10 or Section 2.11 and the other terms and provisions of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents to determinations, reserve and capital adequacy requirements, expenses, increased costs, reduced receipts and the like as they pertain to the Lenders shall be deemed also to include those of its Participants. The Borrower agrees that each Participant shall be entitled to the benefits of Sections 2.10, 2.11, 2.12 and 2.13 (subject to the requirements and limitations therein, including the requirements under Section 2.13(f) it being understood that the documentation required under Section 2.13(f) shall be delivered to the participating Lender by the Lender that sold the participation)) to the same extent as if it were a Lender and had acquired its interest by assignment pursuant to paragraph (a) of this Section; provided that such Participant (A) agrees to be subject to the provisions of Section 2.22 as if it were an assignee under paragraph (a) of this Section; and (B) shall not be entitled to receive any greater payment under Sections 2.10, 2.11, 2.12 or 2.13, with respect to any participation, than its participating Lender would have been entitled to receive, except to the extent such entitlement to receive a greater payment results from a Change in Law that occurs after the Participant acquired the applicable participation. Each Lender that sells a participation shall, acting solely for this purpose as an agent of the Borrower, maintain a register on which it enters the name and address of each Participant and the principal amounts (and stated interest) of each Participant’s interest in the Loans or other obligations under the Loan Documents (the “Participant Register”); provided that no Lender shall have any obligation to disclose all or any portion of the Participant Register (including the identity of any Participant or any information relating to a Participant’s interest in any commitments, loans, letters of credit or its other obligations under any Loan Document) to any Person except to the extent that such disclosure is necessary to establish that such commitment, loan, letter of credit or other obligation is in registered form under Section 5f.103-1(c) of the United States Treasury Regulations. The entries in the Participant Register shall be conclusive absent manifest error, and such Lender shall treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Participant Register as the owner of such participation for all purposes of this Agreement notwithstanding any notice to the contrary. For the avoidance of doubt, the Administrative Agent (in its capacity as Administrative Agent) shall have no responsibility for maintaining a Participant Register. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the sales of participations to Approved Participants shall be subject to prior written consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld) of the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent; provided that no consent of the Borrower Representative shall be required if an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing. For the avoidance of doubt, it is understood and agreed that no Participant shall have the additional rights and obligations granted to each “Approved Participant” under this Agreement unless the assignment to such Participant has been approved by the Borrower Representative and approved in writing by the Administrative Agent (and, if applicable, the related assigning Lender has assigned its voting rights to such Participant) as further described in the definition of “Approved Participant”. Notwithstanding anything in the foregoing to the contrary, at any time no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the consent of the Borrower Representative shall be required for any participation to any participant that is in the business of owning and renting single family homes in the United States or to any Affiliate of any such entity (which consent may be withheld in the sole discretion of the Borrower).
(f) The Loan Parties may not assign any of their respective rights or obligations hereunder or any interest herein without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent and the Majority Lenders.
(g) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, any Lender may at any time pledge or grant a security interest in all or any portion of its rights (including rights to payment of the principal balance of the Loans and Interest with respect thereto) hereunder to secure obligations of such Lender to a Federal Reserve Bank, without notice to or consent of the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent; provided, that no such pledge or grant of a security interest shall (x) release a Lender from any of its obligations hereunder or substitute any such pledgee or grantee for such Lender as a party hereto or (y) create any additional, or modify any existing, obligations of the Borrowers under this Agreement or any other Loan Document.
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SECTION 10.04. Consent to Jurisdiction.
(a) Each Loan Party irrevocably and unconditionally agrees that it will not commence any action, litigation or proceeding of any kind whatsoever, whether in law or equity, or whether in contract or tort or otherwise, against any other party or any other Person in any way relating to this Agreement or any other Loan Document or the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, in any forum other than the courts of the State of New York sitting in Borough of Manhattan and of the United States District Court of the Southern District of New York, and any appellate court from any thereof, and each Loan Party irrevocably and unconditionally submits to the exclusive jurisdiction, and the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, each Lender and each Servicing Agent party hereto submits to the non-exclusive jurisdiction, of such courts and agrees that any such action, litigation or proceeding may be brought in any such New York State court or, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, in such federal court. Each of the parties hereto agrees that a final judgment in any such action, litigation or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law. Nothing herein or in any other Loan Document shall affect any right that the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or any other Secured Party may otherwise have to bring any action or proceeding relating to any Collateral or any Financed Properties or Financed Single Plat Developments in the courts of any jurisdiction where any such Collateral or Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development is located.
(b) Each party hereto irrevocably and unconditionally waives, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the venue of any such action or proceeding in any such court referred to in Section 10.04(a). Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the defense of an inconvenient forum to the maintenance of such action or proceeding in any such court.
SECTION 10.05. WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY WAIVES, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY JUDICIAL PROCEEDING INVOLVING, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, ANY MATTER (WHETHER SOUNDING IN TORT, CONTRACT OR OTHERWISE) IN ANY WAY ARISING OUT OF, RELATED TO, OR CONNECTED WITH THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS RELATED THERETO, IN EACH CASE WHETHER NOW EXISTING OR HEREAFTER ARISING, AND WHETHER FOUNDED IN CONTRACT OR TORT OR OTHERWISE; AND EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY AGREES AND CONSENTS THAT ANY SUCH CLAIM, DEMAND, ACTION OR CAUSE OF ACTION SHALL BE DECIDED BY COURT TRIAL WITHOUT A JURY, AND THAT ANY PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT MAY FILE AN ORIGINAL COUNTERPART OR A COPY OF THIS SECTION 10.05 WITH ANY COURT AS WRITTEN EVIDENCE OF THE CONSENT OF THE SIGNATORIES HERETO TO THE WAIVER OF THEIR RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY.
SECTION 10.06. Right of Setoff. Subject to Section 10.07, each Secured Party is hereby authorized (in addition to any other rights it may have) at any time after the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default, to set off, appropriate and apply (without presentment, demand, protest or other notice which are hereby expressly waived) any deposits and any other indebtedness held or owing by such Secured Party to, or for the account of, such Borrower against the amount of the Obligations owing by such Borrower to such Person.
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SECTION 10.07. Ratable Payments. If any Lender, whether by setoff or otherwise, has payment made to it with respect to any Obligations in a greater proportion than that received by any other Lender entitled to receive a ratable share of such payment, such Lender agrees, promptly upon demand, to purchase for cash without recourse or warranty a portion of such Obligations so that after such purchase each Lender will hold its ratable proportion of such Obligations; provided that if all or any portion of such excess amount is thereafter recovered from such Lender, such purchase shall be rescinded and the purchase price restored to the extent of such recovery, but without interest.
SECTION 10.08. Limitation of Liability.
(a) No claim may be made by any party hereto against any other party hereto or their respective Affiliates, directors, officers, employees, attorneys or agents for any special, indirect, consequential or punitive damages in respect of any claim for breach of contract or any other theory of liability arising out of or related to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or any other Loan Document, or any act, omission or event occurring in connection herewith or therewith, except to the extent such damages are recovered by third parties in connection with claims made by third parties that are indemnified under this Agreement; and each party hereto hereby waives, releases, and agrees not to sue upon any claim for any such damages, whether or not accrued and whether or not known or suspected to exist in its favor; provided that, for the avoidance of doubt, the foregoing limitations shall not be applicable to (i) interest, fees or other amounts that are due and payable under the Loan Documents or (ii) damages that are recovered by third parties in connection with claims made by such third parties that constitute amounts subject to the indemnification provisions of Article VIII.
(b) No recourse under any obligation, covenant or agreement of any party contained in this Agreement or in any other Loan Document shall be had against any incorporator, stockholder, officer, director, member, manager, employee or agent of such party or any of its Affiliates (solely by virtue of such capacity) by the enforcement of any assessment or by any legal or equitable proceeding, by virtue of any statute or otherwise; it being expressly agreed and understood that this Agreement and each other Loan Document is solely a corporate obligation of such party, and that no personal liability whatever shall attach to or be incurred by any incorporator, stockholder, officer, director, member, manager, employee or agent of any party or any of its Affiliates (solely by virtue of such capacity) or any of them under or by reason of any of the obligations, covenants or agreements of such party contained in this Agreement or any other Loan Document, or implied therefrom, and that any and all personal liability for breaches by any party of any of such obligations, covenants or agreements, either at common law or at equity, or by statute, rule or regulation, of every such incorporator, stockholder, officer, director, member, manager, employee or agent is hereby expressly waived as a condition of and in consideration for the execution of this Agreement and each other Loan Document; provided that the foregoing shall not relieve any such Person from any liability it might otherwise have as a result of fraudulent actions taken or fraudulent omissions made by them. For the avoidance of doubt, to the extent that any Relevant Party is a member, manager, partner, trustee, beneficiary or agent of any other Relevant Party, nothing in this paragraph shall limit such Relevant Party’s obligations under any Loan Document to which it is a party.
SECTION 10.09. Costs, Expenses. In addition to the rights of indemnification under Article VIII, the Loan Parties, jointly and severally, agree to pay to or reimburse the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent, the Diligence Agent and each Lender promptly after written demand therefor (i) all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses of the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent, the Diligence Agent and each Lender in connection with the preparation, execution, delivery and administration (including any requested amendments, waivers or consents) of this Agreement and the other documents to be delivered in connection herewith, including all due diligence expenses (whether pre-closing, in connection with any Borrowing Request or otherwise, including the cost of obtaining Broker Price Opinions, inspections of Properties, title insurance, Surveys, Engineering Reports, Environmental Reports, Zoning Reports or with respect to cash management audits of the Loan Parties), and the reasonable fees and out-of-pocket expenses of counsel for the Administrative Agent and each Lender, the Collateral Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent and the Diligence Agent with respect thereto and advising the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent, the Diligence Agent and each Lender as to their respective rights and remedies under this Agreement and the other agreements executed in connection herewith, (ii) all out-of-pocket costs and expenses (including fees and expenses of counsel), incurred by the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent and each Lender in connection with the enforcement (including any enforcement of this indemnification) or protection of their rights under this Agreement and the other agreements and documents to be delivered in connection herewith and (iii) all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses (including reasonable fees and expenses of counsel), incurred by the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent or the Diligence Agent in connection with monthly lien searches related to the Eligible Properties which lien searches shall be performed in accordance with the lien search process agreed to on the Closing Date (it being understood that any failure by the Diligence Agent to follow such lien search process does not relieve the Loan Parties from its obligation to pay the amounts set forth in this clause (iii)).
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SECTION 10.10. Confidentiality.
(a) By accepting delivery of this Agreement, the Borrowers agree not to disclose to any Person the terms of this Agreement or the other Loan Documents (including any pricing and other terms provided by the Administrative Agent or the Lenders) or the amount or terms of any fees payable to the Administrative Agent or the Lenders (collectively, the “Product Information”) in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (the “Transactions”), except (i) to its and Affiliates’ and direct and indirect equity owners and to its and its Affiliates’ and direct and indirect equity owners’ officers, directors, employees, agents, accountants, tax advisors, legal counsel and other representatives (collectively, the “Borrower Parties”) who have a need to know the Product Information in connection with the Transaction or management of the Properties (it being understood that the Persons to whom such disclosure is made will be informed of the confidential nature of such Product Information and instructed to keep such Product Information confidential), (ii) in connection with any legal or regulatory action or proceeding relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby or the exercise of any remedies hereunder, (iii) to the extent required by applicable law, regulation (including any stock exchange or related regulatory requirement), subpoena or other legal process (provided that the Product Information shall be redacted in a manner reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and Lenders to the extent permitted under such applicable law, regulation, subpoena or other legal process) or in connection with the enforcement or protection of their rights under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, (iv) to the extent requested by any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the Loan Parties or any Borrower Parties, (v) in connection with any due diligence request, (vi) to any Rating Agency; provided, in each case in this clause (vi), such recipients agree to be bound by the provisions of this section applicable to the Loan Parties or (vii) to the extent approved by the Administrative Agent in writing. The Borrowers shall be responsible for any failure of any Borrower Party to comply with the provisions of this clause (a).
(b) The Administrative Agent, the Diligence Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent and the Lenders shall not disclose to any Person the confidential or proprietary information regarding the business or Properties of the Borrowers or any other Loan Party furnished to the Administrative Agent, the Diligence Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent or any Lender the Lenders in connection with the Transaction (collectively, the “Borrower Information”), except (i) to their respective Affiliates’ officers, directors, employees, agents, accountants, legal counsel, tax advisors and other representatives (collectively, the “Lender Representatives”) who have a need to know the Borrower Information for the purpose of assisting in the negotiation and completion of the Transaction and who agree to be bound by the provisions in this section applicable to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, (ii) to the extent required by applicable law, regulation, subpoena or other legal process or in connection with the enforcement or protection of their rights under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, (iii) to the extent requested or pursuant to supervisory oversight by any governmental or regulatory authority having jurisdiction over the Administrative Agent, the Lenders, the Lenders or any Lender Representative, (iv) to any Rating Agency, including in compliance with Rule 17g-5 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or any similar rule or regulation in any relevant jurisdiction, (v) to any Servicing Agent, Administrative Agent, Diligence Agent, Paying Agent, Calculation Agent, the Counterparty, any Approved Counterparty or any Lender or any other Person that is involved in the administration of the Transaction, (vi) which is recorded and filed in public records by the Borrower or any of its Affiliates, or (vii) to any assignee, prospective assignee, participant or prospective participant which is not prohibited from being an assignee or participant and which agrees to be bound by the confidentiality provisions set forth herein. The Administrative Agent, the Diligence Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Paying Agent and each Lender, as the case may be, will be responsible for any failure of any related Lender Representative to comply with the provisions of this clause (b).
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SECTION 10.11. No Waiver; Remedies. No failure on the part of the Administrative Agent, any Lender or any other Person to exercise, and no delay in exercising, any right, privilege, power or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right, privilege, power or remedy hereunder preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, privilege, power or remedy. The remedies herein provided are cumulative and not exclusive of any remedies provided by law.
SECTION 10.12. GOVERNING LAW. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED AND ENFORCED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INTERNAL LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK (INCLUDING SECTIONS 5-1401 AND 5-1402 OF THE NEW YORK GENERAL OBLIGATIONS LAW BUT OTHERWISE WITHOUT REFERENCE TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICT LAWS). THE PAYING AGENT AND EACH RELEVANT PARTY AGREES THAT THEY WILL NOT CHANGE THE APPLICABLE LAW IN FORCE WITH RESPECT TO THE ISSUES REFERRED TO IN ARTICLE 2(1) OF THE HAGUE SECURITIES CONVENTION TO A STATE OTHER THAN THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
SECTION 10.13. Execution in Counterparts; Electronic Signatures. This Agreement and any document, amendment, approval, consent, information, notice, certificate, request, statement, disclosure or authorization related to this Agreement and any other Loan Document (each a “Communication”) shall be valid, binding, and enforceable against a party when executed and delivered by an authorized individual on behalf of the party by means of (i) an original manual signature; (ii) a faxed, scanned, or photocopied manual signature, or (iii) any other electronic signature permitted by the federal Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, state enactments of the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act, and/or any other relevant electronic signatures law, including any relevant provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code, in each case to the extent applicable. Each Communication may be in the form of an Electronic Record and may be executed using Electronic Signatures (including, without limitation, facsimile and .pdf) and shall be considered an original, and shall for all purposes have the same validity, legal effect, and admissibility in evidence as an original manual signature. Each party to this Agreement or any Loan Document shall be entitled to conclusively rely upon, and shall have no liability with respect to, any faxed, scanned, or photocopied manual signature, or other electronic signature, of any other party (whether such signature is with respect to this Agreement or any Loan Document, as applicable, or any notice, officer’s certificate or other ancillary document delivered pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement or any Loan Document) and shall have no duty to investigate, confirm or otherwise verify the validity or authenticity thereof. This Agreement and any Loan Document may be executed in any number of counterparts, including both paper and electronic counterparts, and each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which when taken together shall constitute one and the same agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, the authorization under this paragraph may include, without limitation, use or acceptance by any party hereto of a manually signed paper Communication which has been converted into electronic form (such as scanned into PDF format), or an electronically signed Communication converted into another format, for transmission, delivery and/or retention. Electronic Signatures and facsimile signatures shall be deemed valid and binding to the same extent as the original. For purposes hereof, “Electronic Record” and “Electronic Signature” shall have the meanings assigned to them, respectively, by 15 USC §7006, as it may be amended from time to time.
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SECTION 10.14. Integration; Binding Effect; Survival of Termination. This Agreement and the other Loan Documents executed by the parties hereto on the Closing Date contain the final and complete integration of all prior expressions by the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall constitute the entire agreement among the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof superseding all prior oral or written understandings. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns (including any trustee in bankruptcy). Any provisions of this Agreement which are prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions hereof, and any such prohibition or unenforceability in any jurisdiction shall not invalidate or render unenforceable such provision in any other jurisdiction. This Agreement shall create and constitute the continuing obligations of the parties hereto in accordance with its terms and shall remain in full force and effect until the Final Collection Date; provided, however, that the provisions of Sections 2.09, 2.10, 2.11, 2.12 and Article VIII, the provisions of Sections 10.09, 10.10, 10.11 and 10.12 and the representations and warranties of the Relevant Parties in this Agreement, shall survive any termination of this Agreement.
SECTION 10.15. USA Patriot Act. Each Lender hereby notifies the Borrowers and each other Loan Party that pursuant to the requirements of the USA Patriot Act (Title III of Pub. L. 107-56 (signed into law October 26, 2001), as amended) (the “Patriot Act”), it is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies the Borrowers and each other Loan Party, which information includes the name and address of the Borrowers and each other Loan Party and other information that will allow such Lender to identify the Borrowers and each other Loan Party in accordance with the Patriot Act. The Borrowers and each other Loan Party shall promptly provide such information upon request by any Lender. The parties hereto acknowledge that in accordance with requirements established under the Patriot Act, each of the Paying Agent and the Calculation Agent, in order to help fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering, is required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or legal entity that establishes a business relationship or opens an account with the Paying Agent or Calculation Agent. Each party hereby agrees that it shall provide the Paying Agent or Calculation Agent, as applicable, with such information in its possession as the Paying Agent or the Calculation Agent may reasonably request from time to time in order to comply with any applicable requirements of the Patriot Act.
SECTION 10.16. OFAC. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, no Lender will assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement, or sell participations in its rights and/or obligations under this Agreement, to any Person who is (a) listed on the “Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List” maintained by OFAC and/or on any other similar list maintained by OFAC pursuant to any authorizing statute, executive order or regulation or (b) either (i) included within the term of “designated national” as defined in the Cuban Assets Control Regulations, 31 C.F.R. Part 515 or (ii) located, organized or resident in a country or territory that is, or whose government is, the subject of comprehensive territorial Sanctions (currently, Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea and Syria).
SECTION 10.17. Borrower Representative. The Borrower Representative is hereby appointed by each of the Borrowers as its contractual representative hereunder and under each other Loan Document to which any Borrower is a party, and each of the Borrowers irrevocably authorizes the Borrower Representative to act as the contractual representative of such Borrower with the rights and duties expressly set forth herein and in such other Loan Documents and as their agent to receive any and all payments and other amounts due such Borrower hereunder or in any such other Loan Documents.
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SECTION 10.18. State-Specific Provisions.
(a) Alabama Provisions. The following Alabama provisions are not intended to, and do not, limit the express choice of New York law set forth in Section 10.12 of this Agreement and as set forth in the other Loan Documents, and are set forth herein, if and to the extent that, notwithstanding the choice of law provisions contained in this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, Alabama law is held to govern any Mortgage encumbering a Financed Property located in Alabama or any other Loan Document:
(i) [Reserved].
(b) Florida Provisions. Florida. The following Florida provisions are not intended to, and do not, limit the express choice of New York law set forth in Section 10.12 of this Agreement and as set forth in the other Loan Documents, and are set forth herein, if and to the extent that, notwithstanding the choice of law provisions contained in this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, Florida law is held to govern any Mortgage encumbering a Financed Property located in Florida or any other Loan Document:
(i) The parties acknowledge and agree that the Default Rate provided for herein shall also be the rate of interest payable on any judgments entered in favor of Administrative Agent in connection with the loan evidenced hereby.
(c) Georgia Provisions. The following Georgia provisions are not intended to, and do not, limit the express choice of New York law set forth in Section 10.12 of this Agreement and as set forth in the other Loan Documents, and are set forth herein, if and to the extent that, notwithstanding the choice of law provisions contained in this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, Georgia law is held to govern any Mortgage encumbering a Financed Property located in Georgia or any other Loan Document:
(i) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Agreement or any other Loan Document, in any instance where Borrowers or any other Relevant Party is required to reimburse Administrative Agent for any legal fees or expenses incurred by Administrative Agent, (i) “reasonable attorneys’ fees,” “reasonable counsel’s fees,” “attorneys’ fees” and other words of similar import, are not, and shall not be statutory attorneys’ fees under O.C.G.A. § 13-1-11, (ii) if, under any circumstances a Relevant Party is required to pay any or all of Administrative Agent’s attorneys’ fees and expenses, howsoever described or referenced, such Relevant Party shall be responsible only for reasonable legal fees and out-of-pocket expenses actually incurred by Administrative Agent at customary hourly rates actually charged to Administrative Agent for the work done, and (iii) no Relevant Party shall be liable under any circumstances for additional attorneys’ fees or expenses, howsoever described or referenced, under O.C.G.A. § 13-1-11.
(d) Indiana Provisions. The following Indiana provisions do not limit the express choice of New York law as set forth in Section 10.12 of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents. If and to the extent that, notwithstanding the choice of law provisions contained in this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, Indiana law is held to govern this Agreement, any Mortgage encumbering a Property located in Indiana or any other Loan Document:
(i) Any Borrower waives, to the extent not prohibited by the laws of the State of Indiana, the benefit of all laws now existing or that hereafter may be enacted providing for any appraisement or valuation of any portion of any Property.
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(ii) The phrase “attorneys’ fees”, when used herein or in the other Loan Documents shall include any and all attorneys’, paralegals’ and law clerks’ fees and disbursements, including, but not limited to, fees and disbursements at the pre-trial, trial and appellate levels incurred or paid by the Administrative Agent or any Lender in protecting its interest in the Properties, or any part thereof and enforcing its rights hereunder.
(iii) The term “Obligations” as defined in this Agreement shall include, without limitation, any judgment(s) or final decree(s) rendered to collect any money obligations of any Borrower to the Administrative Agent or any Lender and/or to enforce the performance or collection of all covenants, agreements, other obligations and liabilities of the Borrowers under this Agreement or any or all of the Loan Documents; provided, however, such Obligations shall not include any judgment(s) or final decree(s) rendered in another jurisdiction, which judgment(s) or final decree(s) would be unenforceable by an Indiana Court pursuant to Ind. Code §34-54-3-4.
(iv) IT IS EXPRESSLY AGREED AND UNDERSTOOD BY BORROWERS THAT THIS AGREEMENT INCLUDES INDEMNIFICATION PROVISIONS WHICH, IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, INCLUDE AN INDEMNIFICATION BY BORROWERS OF AN INDEMNIFIED PERSON FROM CLAIMS OR LOSSES ARISING AS A RESULT OF SUCH INDEMNIFIED PERSON’S SOLE NEGLIGENCE.
(e) Missouri Provisions. The following Missouri provisions are not intended to, and do not, limit the express choice of New York law set forth in Section 10.12 of this Agreement and as set forth in the other Loan Documents, and are set forth herein, if and to the extent that, notwithstanding the choice of law provisions contained in this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, Missouri law is held to govern any Mortgage encumbering a Property located in Missouri or any other Loan Document:
(i) Statutory Notice - Oral Commitments. Each Borrower has read and understands the following notice pursuant to Section 432.047 of the Missouri Revised Statutes:
Oral or unexecuted agreements or commitments to loan money, extend credit or to forbear from enforcing repayment of a debt including promises to extend or renew such debt are not enforceable, regardless of the legal theory upon which it is based that is in any way related to the credit agreement. To protect you (borrower(s)) and us (creditor) from misunderstanding or disappointment, any agreements we reach covering such matters are contained in this writing, which is the complete and exclusive statement of the agreement between us, except as we may later agree in writing to modify it.
(ii) For purposes of the foregoing subsection (a), “borrower” is the applicable Borrower, “creditor” is any Lender and the Administrative Agent, and the “credit agreement” is the Loan Agreement.
(f) Tennessee Provisions. The following Tennessee provisions are not intended to, and do not, limit the express choice of New York law set forth in Section 10.12 of this Agreement and as set forth in the other Loan Documents, and are set forth herein, if and to the extent that, notwithstanding the choice of law provisions contained in this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, Tennessee law is held to govern any Mortgage encumbering a Financed Property located in Tennessee or any other Loan Document:
(i) The provisions of the Loan Documents as to payment of attorneys’ fees and expenses of collection (i) will be subject to the discretion of the court as to the award and the amount of attorneys’ fees, and (ii) may be subject to T.C.A § 20-12-119(c), which requires a court to award certain litigation costs and reasonable and necessary attorneys’ fees, up to $10,000, to the successful party if the court grants a motion to dismiss pursuant to Rule 12 of the Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure for failure to state a claim upon which relief may be granted.
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(g) Texas Provisions. The following Texas provisions are not intended to, and do not, limit the express choice of New York law set forth in Section 10.12 of this Agreement and as set forth in the other Loan Documents, and are set forth herein, if and to the extent that, notwithstanding the choice of law provisions contained in this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, Texas law is held to govern any Mortgage encumbering a Property located in Texas or any other Loan Document:
(i) Homestead Property. No Property located in the State of Texas forms a part of any property owned, used or claimed by any Borrower as a residence or business homestead, nor is any such Property exempt from forced sale under the laws of the State of Texas. Each Borrower hereby disclaims and renounces each and every claim to the Property as a homestead.
(ii) Notice of Final Agreement. NOTICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 26.02(e) OF THE TEXAS BUSINESS AND COMMERCE CODE: THIS AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS CONSTITUTE A WRITTEN LOAN AGREEMENT (AS DEFINED IN SECTION 26(a)(2) OF THE TEXAS BUSINESS AND COMMERCE CODE, AS AMENDED) AND REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT AND UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE BORROWERS, LENDERS AND OTHER RESPECTIVE PARTIES HERETO AND THERETO AND SUPERSEDE ALL PRIOR AGREEMENTS AND UNDERSTANDINGS BETWEEN SUCH PARTIES RELATING TO THE SUBJECT MATTER HEREOF AND THEREOF AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR CONTEMPORANEOUS OR SUBSEQUENT AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES. THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE PARTIES.
(iii) Collateral Protection Insurance Notice. WITH RESPECT TO ANY PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE STATE OF TEXAS AS REQUIRED BY THE TEXAS FINANCE CODE SECTION 307.052: (i) THE APPLICABLE BORROWER IS REQUIRED TO: (A) KEEP SUCH PROPERTY INSURED AGAINST DAMAGE IN THE AMOUNT THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT (OR THE COLLATERAL AGENT AT THE DIRECTION OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT) SPECIFIES; (B) PURCHASE THE INSURANCE FROM AN INSURER THAT IS AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THE STATE OF TEXAS OR AN ELIGIBLE SURPLUS LINES INSURER; AND (C) NAME THE COLLATERAL AGENT, ON BEHALF OF THE SECURED PARTIES, AS THE PERSON TO BE PAID UNDER THE POLICY IN THE EVENT OF A LOSS; (ii) THE APPLICABLE BORROWER SHALL, IF REQUESTED BY THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT OR THE COLLATERAL AGENT, DELIVER TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT A COPY OF THE POLICY AND PROOF OF THE PAYMENT OF PREMIUMS; AND (iii) IF THE APPLICABLE BORROWER FAILS TO MEET ANY REQUIREMENT LISTED IN CLAUSES (i) OR (ii) OF THIS SECTION, THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT (OR THE COLLATERAL AGENT AT THE DIRECTION OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT) MAY OBTAIN COLLATERAL PROTECTION INSURANCE ON BEHALF OF THE APPLICABLE BORROWER AT SUCH BORROWER’S EXPENSE.
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(iv) Texas Assignment of Rents Act. With respect to any Property located in the State of Texas, any assignment of Leases granted under any Mortgage or any other Loan Document is intended to comply with the Texas Assignment of Rents Act, Chapter 64 of the Texas Property Code (“TARA”). To the extent any terms or provisions of any Mortgage or any other Loan Document conflict or are inconsistent with the terms and provisions of TARA, the terms and provisions of TARA shall govern and control. The Administrative Agent and any Collateral Agent shall be entitled to all rights, benefits and privileges provided for in TARA, whether or not expressly set forth in any Mortgage or any other Loan Document.
SECTION 10.19. [Reserved].
SECTION 10.20. Cross-Collateralization; Waiver of Marshalling of Assets.
(a) Each Borrower agrees that any Mortgages will be cross-collateralized and cross-defaulted with each other so that (i) upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of Default, an event of default shall be deemed to have occurred under each of the Mortgages regardless of whether the event constituting such Event of Default related to any particular Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development or any particular Borrower; (ii) each Mortgage shall constitute security for each promissory note issued pursuant to Section 2.01(g) and all Obligations as if a single blanket lien were placed on all of the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments as security for such notes and Obligations; and (iii) such cross-collateralization shall in no event be deemed to constitute a fraudulent conveyance.
(b) To the fullest extent permitted by law, each of the Borrowers, for itself and its successors and assigns, waives all rights to a marshalling of the assets of such Borrower, such Borrower’s partners and others with interests in such Borrower, and of the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments, or to a sale in inverse order of alienation in the event of foreclosure of any Mortgage, and agrees not to assert any right under any laws pertaining to the marshalling of assets, the sale in inverse order of alienation, homestead exemption, the administration of estates of decedents, or any other matters whatsoever to defeat, reduce or affect the right of any Secured Party under the Loan Documents to a sale of the Financed Properties or Financed Single Plat Developments for the collection of the Obligations without any prior or different resort for collection or of the right of any Secured Party to the payment of the Obligations out of the net proceeds of the Financed Properties or Financed Single Plat Developments in preference to every other claimant whatsoever. In addition, each of the Borrowers, for itself and its successors and assigns, waives, to the extent permitted by law, in the event of foreclosure of any or all of the Mortgages, any equitable right otherwise available to such Borrower which would require the separate sale of the Financed Properties or Financed Single Plat Developments or require any Secured Party to exhaust its remedies against any Financed Property or Financed Single Plat Development or any combination of the Financed Properties and/or Financed Single Plat Developments before proceeding against any other Property, Single Plat Development or combination of Financed Properties and/or Financed Single Plat Developments; and further in the event of such foreclosure such Borrower does hereby expressly consent to and authorize, at the option of the applicable Secured Party, the foreclosure and sale either separately or together of any combination of the Financed Properties and Financed Single Plat Developments.
SECTION 10.21. No Advisory or Fiduciary Responsibility. The Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Paying Agent, the Calculation Agent, the Diligence Agent, each Lender and their Affiliates (collectively, solely for purposes of this paragraph, the “Lender Parties”), may have economic interests that conflict with those of the Relevant Parties, their equityholders and/or their Affiliates. Each Relevant Party agrees that nothing in the Loan Documents or otherwise will be deemed to create an advisory, fiduciary or agency relationship or fiduciary or other implied duty between any Lender Party, on the one hand, and such Relevant Party, its equityholders or its Affiliates, on the other. The Relevant Parties acknowledge and agree that (i) the transactions contemplated by the Loan Documents (including the exercise of rights and remedies hereunder and thereunder) are arm’s-length commercial transactions between the Lender Parties, on the one hand, and the Relevant Parties, on the other, and (ii) in connection therewith and with the process leading thereto, (x) no Lender Party has assumed an advisory or fiduciary responsibility in favor of any Relevant Party, its equityholders or its Affiliates with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby (or the exercise of rights or remedies with respect thereto) or the process leading thereto (irrespective of whether any Lender Party has advised, is currently advising or will advise any Relevant Party, its equityholders or its Affiliates on other matters) or any other obligation to any Relevant Party except the obligations expressly set forth in the Loan Documents and (y) each Lender Party is acting solely as principal and not as the agent or fiduciary of any Relevant Party, its management, equityholders, creditors or any other Person. Each Relevant Party acknowledges and agrees that it has consulted its own legal and financial advisors to the extent it deemed appropriate and that it is responsible for making its own independent judgment with respect to such transactions and the process leading thereto. Each Relevant Party agrees that it will not claim that any Lender Party has rendered advisory services of any nature or respect, or owes a fiduciary or similar duty to such Relevant Party, in connection with such transaction or the process leading thereto.
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SECTION 10.22. Lender Communications; Lender Objections. (a) Communications. On the Closing Date, promptly following request therefor from any Lender, the Administrative Agent shall provide to such Lender a complete list of Lenders, including each Lender’s contact information, as such list may be supplemented by the Administrative Agent from time to time by notice to the Lenders. Notwithstanding anything herein or in the other Loan Documents to the contrary, the Loan Parties acknowledge and agree that the Lenders may communicate with each other concerning any matters relating to the Transactions, whether for the purpose of approving or objecting to matters under the Loan Documents, protecting their rights and interests, enforcing remedies or otherwise.
(b) Objections. In order for a Lender to exercise its objection rights granted by this Agreement, such objection shall be substantially in the form set forth on Exhibit J (the “Lender Objection”) and shall satisfy the following conditions: (i) such objection shall be in writing and executed by each of the Lenders exercising such objection right, (ii) such objection shall specify the nature of the objection, (iii) such objection shall be posted within the applicable timeframe provided by this Agreement (if any) in a sub-folder designated for formal objections on an internet data site to which all of the Lenders and the Administrative Agent have access, (iv) the objecting Lenders shall provide written notice thereof to the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent at the time of posting of such objection, (v) such objection shall specify that the objecting Lenders hold the minimum required percentage of Aggregate Commitment necessary to raise such an objection as provided in this Agreement, and (vi) such objection shall provide contact information for each of the objecting Lenders (any objection that satisfies each of the foregoing conditions, a “Formal Objection”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, any one or more Lenders shall be permitted to post their objections in accordance with the conditions specified in clauses (i), (ii), (iv) and (vi) above; provided any such objections shall be posted in a sub-folder designated for initial objections on an internet data site to which all of the Lenders and the Administrative Agent have access (any such objection, an “Initial Objection”). No Initial Objection shall constitute a Formal Objection pursuant to which the Lenders exercise their objection rights granted by this Agreement until such time as such objection meets each of the requirements of a Formal Objection (including but not limited to being posted in a sub-folder designated for formal objections on an internet data site to which all of the Lenders, the Borrower Representative and the Administrative Agent have access).
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SECTION 10.23. Access to Information. Concurrently with the delivery of any notice, report, valuation, inspection, Property File, document or other deliverable under this Agreement (other than any reports, documents or other deliverables in connection with any Initial Borrowing Request or a Modified Borrowing Request), the other Loan Documents or the servicer agreement between the Administrative Agent and the Diligence Agent, the party required to provide such notice or deliver such deliverable, including the Loan Parties, the Administrative Agent, the Paying Agent, the Calculation Agent and the Diligence Agent, shall post the same to an internet data site to which all of the Lenders have access and which provides prompt email notification to the Lenders of such posting. For the avoidance of doubt, each of the Paying Agent and the Calculation Agent shall be entitled to maintain its own website for such purpose so long as the conditions with respect to access thereto set forth this Section 10.23 are satisfied. Any notice or deliverable required to be delivered by any Relevant Party shall be deemed to be delivered on the date such notice or deliverable is posted to the internet data site if posted prior to 4:00 p.m. New York time on such date.
SECTION 10.24. NOTICE OF FINAL AGREEMENT. THIS WRITTEN AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES. THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE PARTIES.
SECTION 10.25. Acknowledgement and Consent to Bail-In of Affected Financial Institutions. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in any Loan Document or in any other agreement, arrangement or understanding among any such parties, each party hereto acknowledges that any liability of any Affected Financial Institution arising under any Loan Document, to the extent such liability is unsecured, may be subject to the write-down and conversion powers of the applicable Resolution Authority and agrees and consents to, and acknowledges and agrees to be bound by:
(a) the application of any Write-Down and Conversion Powers by the applicable Resolution Authority to any such liabilities arising hereunder which may be payable to it by any party hereto that is an Affected Financial Institution; and
(b) the effects of any Bail-In Action on any such liability, including, if applicable:
(i) a reduction in full or in part or cancellation of any such liability;
(ii) a conversion of all, or a portion of, such liability into shares or other instruments of ownership in such Affected Financial Institution, its parent undertaking, or a bridge institution that may be issued to it or otherwise conferred on it, and that such shares or other instruments of ownership will be accepted by it in lieu of any rights with respect to any such liability under this Agreement or any other Loan Document; or
(iii) the variation of the terms of such liability in connection with the exercise of the write-down and conversion powers of the applicable Resolution Authority.
SECTION 10.26. Time is of the Essence. Time shall be of the essence for each and every provision of this Agreement of which time is an element.
SECTION 10.27. Acknowledgment Regarding Any Supported QFCs. To the extent that the Loan Documents provide support, through a guarantee or otherwise, for swap agreements or any other agreement or instrument that is a QFC (such support “QFC Credit Support” and each such QFC a “Supported QFC”), the parties acknowledge and agree as follows with respect to the resolution power of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act and Title II of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (together with the regulations promulgated thereunder, the “U.S. Special Resolution Regimes”) in respect of such Supported QFC and QFC Credit Support (with the provisions below applicable notwithstanding that the Loan Documents and any Supported QFC may in fact be stated to be governed by the laws of the State of New York and/or of the United States or any other state of the United States).
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In the event a Covered Person that is party to a Supported QFC (each, a “Covered Party”) becomes subject to a proceeding under a U.S. Special Resolution Regime, the transfer of such Supported QFC and the benefit of such QFC Credit Support (and any interest and obligation in or under such Supported QFC and such QFC Credit Support, and any rights in property securing such Supported QFC or such QFC Credit Support) from such Covered Party will be effective to the same extent as the transfer would be effective under the U.S. Special Resolution Regime if the Supported QFC and such QFC Credit Support (and any such interest, obligation and rights in property) were governed by the laws of the United States or a state of the United States. In the event a Covered Party or a BHC Act Affiliate of a Covered Party becomes subject to a proceeding under a U.S. Special Resolution Regime, Default Rights under the Loan Documents that might otherwise apply to such Supported QFC or any QFC Credit Support that may be exercised against such Covered Party are permitted to be exercised to no greater extent than such Default Rights could be exercised under the U.S. Special Resolution Regime if the Supported QFC and the Loan Documents were governed by the laws of the United States or a state of the United States. Without limitation of the foregoing, it is understood and agreed that rights and remedies of the parties with respect to a Defaulting Lender shall in no event affect the rights of any Covered Party with respect to a Supported QFC or any QFC Credit Support.
[Remainder of page intentionally left blank]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered on the date first above written.
| BORROWERS: | ||
| PKG 10A RECAP, LLC | ||
| PKG 10-AXELROD 22, LLC | ||
| PKG 10-GRANBURY, LLC | ||
| PKG 10-LUBBOCK 1.0, LLC | ||
| PKG 10-LYNNWOOD 20, LLC | ||
| PKG 10-SPRINGTOWN 14, LLC | ||
| PKG 10-SPRINGTOWN 70, LLC | ||
| PKG 10-TEXARKANA 29, LLC, | ||
| each a Delaware limited liability company | ||
| By: | /s/ Jordan B. Ruddy | |
| Name: Jordan B. Ruddy | ||
| Title: Authorized Signatory | ||
| EQUITY OWNERS: | ||
| PKG 10 PLEDGOR, LLC, | ||
| each a Delaware limited liability company | ||
| By: | /s/ Jordan B. Ruddy | |
| Name: Jordan B. Ruddy | ||
| Title: Authorized Signatory | ||
| RISK RETENTION SPONSOR: | ||
| BLUEROCK RESIDENTIAL HOLDINGS, LP, | ||
| a Delaware limited partnership, | ||
| solely with respect to Section 5.07 | ||
| By: | /s/ Michael Konig | |
| Name: Michael Konig | ||
| Title: Secretary | ||
Signature Page to
BRG/Peak JV Loan Agreement
| DEUTSCHE BANK AG, NEW YORK BRANCH, | ||
| as Administrative Agent | ||
| By: | /s/ R. Chris Jones | |
| Name: R. Chris Jones | ||
| Title: Director | ||
| By: | /s/ Ryan M. Stark | |
| Name: Ryan M. Stark | ||
| Title: Managing Director | ||
| DEUTSCHE BANK AG, NEW YORK BRANCH, | ||
| as a Lender | ||
| By: | /s/ R. Chris Jones | |
| Name: R. Chris Jones | ||
| Title: Director | ||
| By: | /s/ Ryan M. Stark | |
| Name: Ryan M. Stark | ||
| Title: Managing Director | ||
| DEUTSCHE BANK SECURITIES INC., | ||
| as Sole Lead Arranger | ||
| By: | /s/ R. Chris Jones | |
| Name: R. Chris Jones | ||
| Title: Director | ||
| By: | /s/ Ryan M. Stark | |
| Name: Ryan M. Stark | ||
| Title: Managing Director | ||
Signature Page to
BRG/Peak JV Loan Agreement
| COMPUTERSHARE TRUST COMPANY, N.A., | ||
| as Paying Agent and Calculation Agent | ||
| By: | /s/ Jennifer L. Conley | |
| Name: Jennifer L. Conley | ||
| Title: Vice President | ||
Signature Page to
BRG/Peak JV Loan Agreement
Exhibit 99.1

[ ]
Dear Bluerock Residential Stockholder:
I am pleased to inform you that on [ ], the board of directors of Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Bluerock Residential”), declared a distribution of the outstanding shares of common stock and Class C common stock of Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Bluerock Homes”), which will be an externally managed, publicly traded real estate investment trust (“REIT”) and hold a portfolio of Bluerock Residential’s Single-Family Properties (as hereinafter defined) and certain other assets (collectively with the Single-Family Properties, the “Bluerock Homes Business”).
The distribution of shares of Bluerock Homes common stock and Bluerock Homes Class C common stock (the “Distribution”) is expected to occur prior to the closing of the merger of Bluerock Residential with and into Badger Merger Sub LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a wholly owned subsidiary (“Merger Sub”) of Badger Parent LLC (“Badger Parent”), pursuant to an agreement and plan of merger, dated as of December 20, 2021, by and among Bluerock Residential, Badger Parent and Merger Sub (as amended from time to time, the “Merger Agreement”). Badger Parent and Merger Sub are affiliates of Blackstone Real Estate Partners IX L.P., an affiliate of Blackstone Inc. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, following the completion of the Distribution, Bluerock Residential will merge with and into Merger Sub (the “Merger”), with Merger Sub continuing as the surviving company in the Merger. Completion of the Distribution is one of a number of conditions to completion of the Merger, and the Distribution is contingent upon a number of other conditions having been satisfied or waived.
Prior to the Distribution and the effective time of the Merger (the “Merger Effective Time”), Bluerock Residential will contribute certain single-family properties and other assets, which are held through investments in the general and limited partner interests in the operating partnership of Bluerock Residential, to Bluerock Homes, on the terms and subject to the conditions of a separation and distribution agreement (the “Separation,” and such properties, the “Single-Family Properties”).
The Distribution is expected to occur on [ ], by way of a pro rata special dividend to Bluerock Residential common stockholders. Assuming that the conditions to the Distribution are satisfied, holders of each share of Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Residential Class C common stock as of the close of business on [ ], the expected record date for the Distribution, will be entitled to receive [ ] share[s] of Bluerock Homes common stock or Class C common stock, as applicable. The Distribution is expected to be treated as a taxable distribution to such Bluerock Residential stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Bluerock Residential stockholders are not required to approve the Distribution, and you are not required to take any action to receive your shares of Bluerock Homes common stock and/or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock. The number of shares of Bluerock Residential stock that you own prior to the Distribution will not change as a result of the Distribution. We expect that Bluerock Homes common stock will be listed on the New York Stock Exchange American under the symbol “BHM.” Bluerock Homes Class C common stock will not be listed on a securities exchange.
The enclosed information statement is being made available to all holders of shares of Bluerock Residential common stock that are expected to receive shares of Bluerock Homes common stock in the Distribution. The information statement describes the Separation and the Distribution in detail and contains important information about Bluerock Homes, its business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as certain risks related to its business. You are urged to read the information statement carefully.
I want to thank you for your continued support of Bluerock Residential, and we look forward to your future support of Bluerock Homes.
| Sincerely, | |
| [ ] | |
| R. Ramin Kamfar | |
| Chief Executive Officer and Chairman |

[ ]
Dear Bluerock Homes Stockholder:
It is my pleasure to welcome you as a stockholder of our company, Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Bluerock Homes”). Following the distribution of all of the shares of Bluerock Homes common stock and Class C common stock by Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc., Bluerock Homes will be an externally managed, publicly traded real estate investment trust (“REIT”) that will own and operate high-quality single-family properties located in attractive markets in the United States.
We believe the creation of a REIT focused on first-ring suburban single-family rental homes positions us to benefit from anticipated healthy long-term demand fundamentals for single-family rentals with upgraded amenities. We intend to focus on the knowledge-economy and high quality of life regions of the Sunbelt and the West, utilizing our two primary investment strategies – Scattered-Site Aggregation and Build-to-Rent Development – to drive growth in funds from operations and net asset value at our properties in order to maximize returns to our investors.
We further believe that our management team’s extensive experience and proven track record in residential real estate, as well as its in-depth market knowledge and network of experienced regional owner-operators across the nation, will enable us to successfully execute our business strategy and generate attractive risk-adjusted returns and long-term value for our stockholders. We expect that Bluerock Homes common stock will be listed on the New York Stock Exchange American under the symbol “BHM.” Bluerock Homes Class C common stock will not be listed on a securities exchange.
I invite you to learn more about Bluerock Homes by carefully reviewing the enclosed information statement, which describes the distribution of Bluerock Homes common stock and Class C common stock in detail and contains important information about Bluerock Homes, our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as certain risks related to our business. The information statement also explains how you will receive your shares of Bluerock Homes common stock and/or Class C common stock. We look forward to your support as a stockholder of Bluerock Homes.
| Sincerely, | |
| [ ] | |
| R. Ramin Kamfar | |
| Chief Executive Officer and Chairman | |
| Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. |
Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A Registration Statement on Form 10 relating to these securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
PRELIMINARY AND SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED APRIL 22, 2022
INFORMATION STATEMENT
Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.
This information statement is being furnished in connection with the distribution (the “Distribution”) by Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Bluerock Residential”), to its common stockholders as of the close of business on [ ], the expected record date for the distribution, of all of the outstanding shares of common stock and Class C common stock of Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Bluerock Homes”) and until the Distribution Date (as defined below) a wholly owned subsidiary of Bluerock Residential. The Distribution is expected to occur prior to the closing of the merger of Bluerock Residential with and into Badger Merger Sub LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a wholly owned subsidiary (“Merger Sub”) of Badger Parent LLC (“Badger Parent”) pursuant to an agreement and plan of merger, dated as of December 20, 2021, by and among Bluerock Residential, Merger Sub and Badger Parent (as amended from time to time, the “Merger Agreement”). Badger Parent and Merger Sub are affiliates of Blackstone Real Estate Partners IX L.P., an affiliate of Blackstone Inc. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, following the completion of the Distribution, Bluerock Residential will merge with and into Merger Sub (the “Merger”), with Merger Sub continuing as the surviving company in the Merger. Completion of the Distribution is one of a number of conditions to completion of the Merger, and the Distribution is contingent upon a number of other conditions having been satisfied or waived.
Prior to the Distribution and the effective time of the Merger (the “Merger Effective Time”), Bluerock Residential will contribute certain single-family properties and other assets to Bluerock Homes, which are held through investments in the general and limited partner interests in the operating partnership of Bluerock Residential, on the terms and conditions of a separation and distribution agreement (the “Separation,” and such properties, the “Single-Family Properties”). Following the Separation, Bluerock Homes will be an externally managed, publicly traded real estate investment trust (“REIT”), consisting of a portfolio of Single-Family Properties and certain other assets previously owned by Bluerock Residential (collectively with the Single-Family Properties, the “Bluerock Homes Business”).
The Distribution will be conducted pursuant to the terms of a separation and distribution agreement (the “Separation and Distribution Agreement”). The Distribution is subject to certain conditions, described under the heading “The Separation and the Distribution.”
We expect that the shares of Bluerock Homes common stock will be distributed by Bluerock Residential to Bluerock Residential common stockholders on [ ] (the “Distribution Date”). In the Distribution, Bluerock Residential will distribute all of the outstanding shares of Bluerock Homes common stock to Bluerock Residential common stockholders on a pro rata basis, in a transaction that is expected to be a taxable distribution for U.S. federal income tax purposes. For each share of Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Residential Class C common stock held of record by Bluerock Residential stockholders as of the close of business on [ ], the expected record date for the Distribution, such stockholder will receive [ ] share[s] of Bluerock Homes common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock, as applicable. Bluerock Residential stockholders will receive cash in lieu of any fractional shares of Bluerock Homes common stock that such holders would have otherwise received as a result of the Distribution.
As discussed under “The Separation and the Distribution—Trading Before the Distribution Date,” if you sell your shares of Bluerock Residential common stock in the “regular-way” market beginning on or shortly before the record date and continuing up to and through the Distribution Date you also will be selling your right to receive shares of Bluerock Homes common stock in connection with the Distribution. However, if you sell your shares of Bluerock Residential common stock in the “ex-distribution” market during the same period, you will retain your right to receive shares of Bluerock Homes common stock in connection with the Distribution.
There is no current trading market for Bluerock Homes common stock, although we expect that a limited market, commonly known as a “when-issued” trading market, will develop on or shortly before the record date for the Distribution, and we expect “regular-way” trading of Bluerock Homes common stock to begin on the first trading day following the completion of the Distribution. We expect that our common stock will be listed on the New York Stock Exchange American (the “NYSE American”) under the symbol “BHM.”
We intend to elect and qualify to be taxed as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes commencing with our initial taxable year ending December 31, 2022. Shares of our common stock will be subject to limitations on ownership and transfer that, among other purposes, are intended to assist us in qualifying as a REIT. Our charter (the “Bluerock Homes Charter”) will contain certain restrictions relating to the ownership and transfer of our common stock, including, subject to certain exceptions, a 9.8% limit, in value or by number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, on the ownership of outstanding shares of our common stock and a 9.8% limit, in value, on the ownership of shares of all classes and series of our outstanding stock. For more information, see “Description of Our Capital Stock — Restrictions on Ownership and Transfer.”
Following the Distribution, we expect to be an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (the “JOBS Act”), and, as such, are allowed to provide in this information statement more limited disclosure than an issuer that would not so qualify. In addition, for so long as we remain an emerging growth company, we may also take advantage of certain limited exceptions from investor protection laws such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended, and the Investor Protection and Securities Reform Act of 2010, for limited periods.
Bluerock Residential stockholders are not required to approve the Distribution, and you are not required to take any action to receive your shares of Bluerock Homes common stock and/or Class C common stock.
In reviewing this information statement, you should carefully consider the matters described under the caption “Risk Factors” beginning on page 23.
Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved these securities or determined if this information statement is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
This information statement does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.
The date of this information statement is [ ].
This information statement was first made available to Bluerock Residential stockholders on or about [ ].
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE DISTRIBUTION | 1 |
| INFORMATION STATEMENT SUMMARY | 9 |
| RISK FACTORS | 23 |
| CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS | 65 |
| THE SEPARATION AND THE DISTRIBUTION | 67 |
| DIVIDEND POLICY | 78 |
| CAPITALIZATION | 79 |
| UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 80 |
| UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2021 | 82 |
| UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 | 83 |
| NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 84 |
| MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS | 90 |
| BUSINESS AND PROPERTIES | 103 |
| OUR MANAGER AND MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT | 130 |
| MANAGEMENT | 140 |
| CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS | 158 |
| SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT | 161 |
| DESCRIPTION OF MATERIAL INDEBTEDNESS | 162 |
| DESCRIPTION OF OUR CAPITAL STOCK | 163 |
| MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES | 174 |
| SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE | 205 |
| PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT | 206 |
| WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION | 216 |
| INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | F-1 |
-i-
Presentation of Information
Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this information statement to “Bluerock Homes,” “our company,” “the Company,” “us,” “our” and “we” refer to Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries. References to “Bluerock Residential Holdings” or our “Operating Partnership” refer exclusively to Bluerock Residential Holdings, L.P., a Maryland limited partnership of which we will be the general partner following the Separation. Following the Separation, Bluerock Residential Holdings will function as the operating partnership of Bluerock Homes.
References to the “Merger” refer exclusively to the merger of Bluerock Residential with and into Merger Sub. Badger Parent and Merger Sub are affiliates of Blackstone Real Estate Partners IX L.P., an affiliate of Blackstone Inc. References to Bluerock Homes’ historical business and operations refer to the Single-Family Properties and certain other operations of Bluerock Residential that will be transferred to Bluerock Homes in connection with the Separation.
Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this information statement to “Bluerock Residential” refer to Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc., a Maryland corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries prior to the consummation of the Merger and references to “common stock” of Bluerock Residential refer to Class A common stock of Bluerock Residential, and references to Bluerock Homes “common stock” refer to Class A common stock of Bluerock Homes. Except as otherwise indicated or unless the context otherwise requires, all references to Bluerock Homes per share data assume a distribution ratio of [ ] share[s] of Bluerock Homes common stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Bluerock Homes common stock”), for each share of Bluerock Residential common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Distribution Ratio”).
References to “Bluerock” refer to Bluerock Real Estate, L.L.C. and its affiliates. Bluerock is a private equity real estate investment and asset management firm that is an affiliate of Bluerock Homes Manager, LLC (our “Manager”).
As used herein, all references to “tenants” of Bluerock Homes refer to tenants who have entered into lease agreements with Bluerock Homes or its subsidiaries.
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE DISTRIBUTION
| What is Bluerock Homes, and why is Bluerock Residential separating the Bluerock Homes Business and distributing Bluerock Homes common stock? | Bluerock Homes was formed primarily to hold the Single-Family Properties of Bluerock Residential. The Separation of the Bluerock Homes Business from Bluerock Residential and the Distribution of shares of Bluerock Homes common stock is expected to enable Bluerock Homes to pursue our distinct business strategy focused on our Single-Family Properties. After consideration of strategic alternatives, Bluerock Homes and Bluerock Residential expect that the Separation and the Distribution will provide an opportunity for our experienced management team to implement and execute our growth strategy and for us to enhance investor transparency and better highlight our attributes. For more information, see “The Separation and the Distribution — Background” and “The Separation and the Distribution — Reasons for the Separation and the Distribution.” |
| Why am I receiving this document? | You are receiving this document because you are a holder of shares of Bluerock Residential common stock. If you are a holder of Bluerock Residential common stock as of the close of business on [ ], the expected record date for the Distribution, you will be entitled to receive [ ] shares of Bluerock Homes common stock for each share of Bluerock Residential common stock that you hold at the close of business on such date (and cash in lieu of any fractional shares). The Distribution is expected to occur on [ ]. |
| What is the Separation of the Bluerock Homes Business from Bluerock Residential? |
Prior to the Distribution and the Merger Effective Time, Bluerock Residential will effect an internal reorganization and will contribute certain single-family properties and other assets to Bluerock Homes, which are held through investments in the general and limited partner interests in the operating partnership of Bluerock Residential, on the terms and subject to the conditions of the Separation and Distribution Agreement. Following the Separation, Bluerock Homes will own the Single-Family Properties and certain other assets previously owned by Bluerock Residential.
Bluerock Homes will operate as an UPREIT. This means that an operating partnership of our company will hold substantially all of the properties, conduct substantially all of the business and generate substantially all of the revenues of our company.
Bluerock Residential currently operates as an UPREIT through its Operating Partnership, Bluerock Residential Holdings. Pursuant to the Separation, Bluerock Residential Holdings will form a lower-tier limited partnership or limited liability company treated as a disregarded entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes (the “New LP”). Bluerock Residential Holdings will then contribute its interests in Bluerock Residential’s multi-family residential real estate business and certain other assets to the New LP.
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| Bluerock Residential Holdings will distribute the New LP to Bluerock Residential in exchange for a redemption of 25,210,092 of Bluerock Residential’s common units in Bluerock Residential Holdings and all of Bluerock Residential’s outstanding preferred interests. Duff & Phelps, a Kroll Business operating as Kroll, LLC (“Duff & Phelps”) delivered an opinion on this consideration to the Bluerock Residential board of directors in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement. After consideration of this opinion and other documents and presentations, the non-management directors of the Bluerock Residential board of directors approved this exchange. Pursuant to the Separation, Bluerock Residential will then contribute its remaining interest in Bluerock Residential Holdings (including the general partnership interest) to Bluerock Homes, which will then become the Operating Partnership of Bluerock Homes, through which Bluerock Homes will operate substantially all of its business after the Distribution. |
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| What are the conditions to the Distribution? | The Distribution is subject to the satisfaction (or waiver by Bluerock Residential) of the following conditions in accordance with the Separation and Distribution Agreement: | |
| · | the consummation of the Separation in all material respects; | |
| · | the SEC declaring effective the registration statement of which this information statement forms a part, with no stop order in effect with respect thereto, and no proceeding for such purpose pending before, or threatened by, the SEC; | |
| · | this information statement having been made available to Bluerock Residential stockholders; | |
| · | the receipt of the opinion of Vinson & Elkins L.L.P., to the effect that, beginning with our short taxable year ending December 31, 2022, we will be organized in conformity with the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws, and our intended method of operation will enable us to qualify as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws for our taxable year ending December 31, 2022 and thereafter; | |
| · | the Bluerock Residential board of directors having received one or more opinions from one or more nationally recognized valuation or accounting firms or investment banks reasonably acceptable to Bluerock Residential and Badger Parent as to the solvency of Bluerock Homes after the completion of the Distribution, and such opinion(s) having not been withdrawn or rescinded; | |
| · | no order, injunction, or decree issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing the consummation of the Separation, the Distribution or any of the related transactions being in effect; | |
| · | all necessary permits and authorizations under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act relating to the issuance and trading of shares of Bluerock Homes common stock having been obtained and being in effect; the Bluerock Homes common stock to be distributed having been approved for listing on the NYSE American, subject to official notice of distribution; | |
| · | all actions or filings necessary or appropriate under applicable U.S. federal, state or other securities or blue sky laws and the rules and regulations thereunder having been taken and, where applicable, having become effective or been accepted by the applicable governmental entity; | |
| · | the execution of ancillary agreements by us and Bluerock Residential, including a Tax Matters Agreement; and | |
| · | no other event or development existing or having occurred that, in the judgment of Bluerock Residential’s board of directors, in its sole and absolute discretion, makes it inadvisable to effect the Separation, the Distribution and the other related transactions (except that the consent of Badger Parent would be required for Bluerock Residential to rely on the condition described in this bullet as a basis for not completing the Distribution). | |
| Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes cannot assure you that any or all of these conditions will be met. Bluerock Residential can, subject to the rights of Badger Parent under the Merger Agreement, decline at any time to go forward with the Distribution. Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution. In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement. Accordingly, the Merger will not be completed unless and until the Separation and the Distribution are completed. For a complete discussion of all of the conditions to the Distribution, please refer to “The Separation and the Distribution — The Separation and Distribution Agreement — Conditions to the Distribution.” | ||
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| Can Bluerock Residential unilaterally decide to cancel the Distribution even if all the conditions have been met? | Until the Distribution has occurred, the Bluerock Residential board of directors has the right to terminate the Distribution, even if all of the conditions are satisfied, subject to the rights of Badger Parent under the Merger Agreement. Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Blackstone that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution. In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement. Accordingly, the Merger will not be completed unless and until the Separation and the Distribution are completed. |
| What is the expected date of completion of the Distribution? | The completion and timing of the Distribution are dependent upon a number of conditions, including the conditions listed above. It is expected that the shares of Bluerock Homes common stock will be distributed by Bluerock Residential on [ ], the expected Distribution Date, to the holders of record of shares of Bluerock Residential common stock at the close of business on the record date. However, no assurance can be provided as to the timing of the Distribution or that all conditions to the Distribution will be met. |
| What if I want to sell my Bluerock Residential common stock or my Bluerock Homes common stock? | If you would like to sell your Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Homes common stock, you should consult with your financial advisors, such as your stockbroker, bank or tax advisor. |
| What is “regular-way” and “ex-distribution” trading of Bluerock Residential stock? |
Beginning on or shortly before the record date and continuing up to and through the Distribution Date, it is expected that there will be two markets in Bluerock Residential common stock: a “regular-way” market and an “ex-distribution” market.
Shares of Bluerock Residential common stock that trade on the “regular-way” market will trade with an entitlement to shares of Bluerock Homes common stock distributed in the Distribution. Shares of Bluerock Residential common stock that trade on the “ex-distribution” market will trade without an entitlement to shares of Bluerock Homes common stock distributed pursuant to the Distribution.
If you decide to sell any Bluerock Residential common stock before the Distribution Date, you should make sure your stockbroker, bank or other nominee understands whether you want to sell your Bluerock Residential common stock with or without your entitlement to shares of Bluerock Homes common stock in the Distribution. |
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| Who will be the distribution agent for the Bluerock Homes common stock? |
The distribution agent for the Bluerock Homes common stock will be CTC. For questions relating to the transfer or mechanics of the Distribution, you should contact:
Regular Mail Delivery:
Computershare
Overnight Delivery:
Computershare
If your shares of Bluerock Residential are held by a bank, broker or other nominee, you may call the information agent for the Distribution, CTC, toll free at (866) 574-5492 or (781) 575-2879 if located outside the United States. Banks and brokers should call (866) 567-5704. |
| Who will be the transfer agent for Bluerock Homes common stock? | The transfer agent for the Bluerock Homes common stock will be CTC. |
| Where can I find more information about Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes? |
Before the Distribution, if you have any questions relating to Bluerock Residential’s business performance, you should contact:
Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. |
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After the Distribution, Bluerock Homes stockholders who have any questions relating to Bluerock Homes’ business performance should contact Bluerock Homes at:
Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. | |
| The Bluerock Homes investor website is expected to be operational as of [ ]. | |
| The websites of Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes are not incorporated by reference into this information statement. |
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INFORMATION STATEMENT SUMMARY
The following is a summary of material information discussed in this information statement. This summary may not contain all of the details concerning the Separation, the Distribution or other information that may be important to you. To better understand the Separation, the Distribution and Bluerock Homes’ business and financial position, you should carefully review this entire information statement. Except as otherwise indicated or unless the context otherwise requires, the information included in this information statement assumes the completion of all of the transactions referred to in this information statement in connection with the Separation and the Distribution. Following the Separation and the Distribution, we will conduct our business as an UPREIT, in which our properties will be owned and operated directly or indirectly by our Operating Partnership. Following the Separation, we will be the sole general partner of Bluerock Residential Holdings and own approximately [ ]% of the limited partnership units in Bluerock Residential Holdings. In the future, we may issue common operating partnership units of Bluerock Residential Holdings (“OP units”) or preferred operating partnership units of Bluerock Residential Holdings (“preferred units”) from time to time in connection with acquisitions of properties or for financing, compensation or other reasons.
References in this information statement to Bluerock Homes’ historical assets, liabilities, businesses or activities are generally intended to refer to the historical assets, liabilities, businesses or activities of the transferred businesses as the businesses were conducted as part of Bluerock Residential and its subsidiaries prior to the Separation.
Our Company
We are an externally managed REIT formed to assemble a portfolio of infill first-ring suburban single-family rental homes in knowledge-economy and high quality of life growth markets across the United States, targeting middle-market single-family home renters in the Sunbelt and the West, which we expect should have healthy long-term demand fundamentals for single-family rentals. Our principal business objective is to generate attractive risk-adjusted investment returns by assembling a portfolio of pre-existing single-family rental homes and developing build-to-rent communities. We utilize two primary investment strategies to drive growth in FFO and net asset value (“NAV”) to maximize returns to our investors:
| · | Scattered-Site Aggregation – Aggregation of single-asset and small portfolios of scattered-site homes at above market unlevered yields relative to private and public market valuations; and |
| · | Build-to-Rent Development – Development of Build-to-Rent communities at attractive, stabilized, unlevered yields. |
Our target renter pool includes the large cohort of rental-biased millennials, among others, who are reaching their peak household-formation age, have a bias for renting for lifestyle or flexibility reasons, and/or who do not want or cannot afford the upfront and ongoing financial commitments of home ownership.
We invest primarily through control positions in joint ventures (typically with a 90% economic interest in the joint venture) with a network of established private, regional owner-operators in proprietary, off-market transactions across a broad market footprint, enabling us to execute our strategies across multiple markets and strategies. Where appropriate, we may seek to increase our ownership of the venture to 100%, subsequent to the execution of the initial business plan for each property.
For more information, see “Business and Properties — Our Company.”
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Our Portfolio
Our portfolio consists of scattered-site single family homes and build-to-rent communities. We generally target scattered-site single family homes that are between 15 and 40 years old located in first-ring suburban markets (which are areas within close proximity to downtown amenities, including restaurants and retail shopping) with quality school systems and direct access to large metropolitan areas. Our scattered-site single family homes, which are non-contiguous and often not always part of a single community or development, are typically a core part of our aggregation strategy and our value-add renovation strategy. We source potential investments in scattered-site single family homes through a variety of channels, including our existing relationships and those developed by our network, real estate brokers, auctions and marketed portfolio sales. Our build-to-rent communities are typically developed by our partners with expertise in development utilizing capital which we provide in a variety of structures, including through common equity, preferred equity and mezzanine loans. Our build-to-rent communities are typically located in first-ring suburban markets as part of a larger community with other rental homes. These homes are specifically designed to be rented and are typically amenitized with larger floorplans ranging between two and four bedrooms and consist of both attached and detached homes.
As of December 31, 2021, our portfolio consisted of interests in approximately 3,800 homes, comprised of 1,800 operating homes, of which roughly 1,400 and 400 are scattered-site and build-to-rent, respectively, as well as 2,000 additional homes held through preferred equity and mezzanine loan investments, of which 500 are stabilized and 1,500 are under development. As of December 31, 2021, our properties, exclusive of our development properties, were approximately 93% occupied.
For more information, see “Business and Properties — Our Portfolio.”
Our Target Markets
We focus on knowledge-economy and high quality of life (“Knowledge/Quality”) markets with strong job growth, expanding populations and favorable quality of life characteristics. These Knowledge/Quality markets are typically non-gateway regions, with access to good healthcare, highly-rated school systems, lower crime rates, robust infrastructure, good affordability and a growing economic base. They are generally anchored by major universities, technology, healthcare, trade, next-generation high value-add manufacturing or government industries as well as right to work laws, growing populations, and strong household formations.
Because employment growth is highly correlated with rental demand, we generally select markets with job growth above the national average. In addition, because income growth is highly correlated with ability to deliver rent growth, we select markets with exposure to industries with attractive and growing compensation levels. We believe our approach of focusing on Knowledge/Quality markets with employment and income growth should not only contribute to achieving strong rental demand and occupancy but should also enable us to achieve revenue growth to deliver attractive risk-adjusted returns within our portfolio.
Geographically, the majority of our existing portfolio is positioned in the Sunbelt. According to a study by John Burns Real Estate Consulting conducted in 2021 and a study by the Cooper Center at the University of Virginia published in 2018, the Sunbelt is home to approximately 40% of all U.S. households and is expected to experience average population growth in excess of 10% between 2020 to 2030. Additional existing markets include high-growth areas of the West (excluding California) and other markets with similar attractive demographics as warranted. We believe that the diverse balance of larger and smaller markets within our core footprint, along with a strong current cash flow base and value-add upside, will enable us to deliver attractive investment returns across a full economic cycle.
We select and continuously evaluate our target markets through an analysis of demographic data at both the market and submarket levels, which may include the following:
| · | Strong Economic Drivers. Economy characterized by growth industries and jobs of the future such as healthcare and technology, signaling near- and long-term employment growth, relatively low housing affordability and low rent-to-income ratios that allow for future rent increases. |
| · | Favorable Business Climate. Regulatory conditions that attract, retain, and foster job growth and new business development including lower tax rates and right-to-work states. |
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| · | Robust Infrastructure. Growing economic base driven by the presence of technology centers, major colleges and universities, healthcare, trade, next-generation high value-add manufacturing, government industries, and modern transportation facilities and networks. |
| · | Renter Demographics. The presence of a younger, more educated workforce with a high population of renters by choice. |
| · | High Quality of Life. Areas with abundant recreation, leisure, cultural, and entertainment options, highly rated school systems that appeal to young parents, and plentiful social opportunities including ample recreation and open space, all of which foster population growth and retention. Within our target markets, we focus on submarkets where members of our network have established relationships, transaction history, market knowledge and potential access to off-market investments, as well as an ability to direct property management and leasing operations efficiently. |
For more information, see “Business and Properties — Our Target Markets.”
Our Network Strategy
We believe the most important elements in successful investing in single-family real estate are the ability to access attractive, proprietary deal flow, deep local market knowledge to underwrite appropriately, as well as operational expertise and infrastructure to provide execution of the operating and value creation strategies.
For this reason, we invest primarily through controlling positions in joint ventures (typically with a 90% economic interest in the joint venture) with members of our network, representing experienced regional owner- operators across the nation. These relationships provide a wealth of seasoned market knowledge, along with access to a substantial, often proprietary, transaction pipeline, extensive operating infrastructure, and the ability to execute in our target markets without the cost and logistical burdens of maintaining our own local infrastructure across a broad footprint. Benefits of our network strategy include the following:
| · | Force multiplier sourcing effect that provides access to a sizable pool of attractive, off-market investment opportunities; |
| · | Deep intellectual capital and track record of success, enabling us to deliver a knowledge-based underwriting of the transaction; |
| · | Extensive operational infrastructure enabling us to deliver execution across multiple investment strategies and markets, without the cost and logistical burdens of maintaining our own infrastructure for those markets and strategies; |
| · | Substantial capital to invest alongside us, ensuring our partners’ interests are aligned with ours, particularly in terms of delivering returns for our investors; and |
| · | Opportunity to achieve ambitious growth and diversification goals via rapid deployment of capital and elimination of delays establishing a robust on-the-ground presence in each new market we enter. |
The in-house asset management team of our Manager and its affiliates works in tandem with our network members to oversee the implementation of each asset’s business plan, including budgeting, capital expenditures, tenant improvements and financial performance. We believe that our network partners, given their significant co-investment in the projects, provide superior management execution versus third-party fee-only management companies. Notwithstanding the investments of each member of our network, we expect to maintain substantial control over these ventures, including with respect to strategic decision-making.
For more information, see “Business and Properties — Our Network Strategy.”
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Our Competitive Strengths
We believe that our investment strategy and operating model distinguishes us from other owners, operators, and acquirors of single-family rental real estate in several important ways.
Our Key Principals. Our team offers significant breadth and depth in real estate operating and investment experience. Our team has successfully sourced, structured, acquired and managed more than 50 million square feet of residential real estate investments in our target markets, totaling approximately $13 billion in value, and bring an average of 30 years’ experience across multiple real estate and credit cycles. We believe this experience will provide a competitive advantage, enabling us to grow the company and generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for our stockholders. Our principals’ competitive strengths include:
| · | Expertise Across Our Target Markets. Our principals have significant experience structuring and investing in properties successfully in our target markets, through multiple financial and real estate investment cycles, providing a breadth and depth of operating and investment experience to help steer our investment strategy wisely; |
| · | Expertise Creating Value Across Our Investment Strategies and Various Capital Structures. Our principals have substantial experience executing transactions and creating value across our value-add and development investment strategies, and across capital structures — equity, preferred equity, and mezzanine — providing substantial flexibility to create value in transactions, subject to qualifying and maintaining our qualification as a REIT; |
| · | Expertise in Corporate and Portfolio Transactions to Create Value. Our principals have executed large corporate and portfolio transactions, including the rollup of assets to create multiple public companies, the creation of multiple asset management platforms, and the purchase of distressed assets and/or companies out of bankruptcy, demonstrating a sophisticated structuring capability and an ability to execute complex capital markets transactions, which experience will assist us in growing the company and delivering attractive risk-adjusted returns to our stockholders; and |
| · | Expertise in Financing and Structuring Transactions. Our investment team has substantial expertise structuring and financing transactions, enabling us to evaluate and access the most efficient capital structures for our acquisitions. In addition, our investment team has extensive experience structuring development transactions with network partners to capture significant value while minimizing inherent risks and/or guarantees associated with such transactions. |
Our Network. We invest primarily through controlling positions in joint ventures with members of our network, which allows us to draw on the collective relationships and market knowledge and experience of significant private owner-operators in the nation who invest alongside us in transactions, in order to source, underwrite and execute attractive transactions. We believe our network provides us access to a substantial, often proprietary, transaction pipeline, along with extensive infrastructure and ability to execute across our target markets without the cost and logistical burdens associated with maintaining our own infrastructure and pipeline in these markets.
Disciplined “Broad and Deep” Underwriting. By leveraging our network, we are able to execute a rigorous underwriting process, which we believe improves our ability to evaluate risk and create value in our transactions. To begin, our network partners conduct underwriting and due diligence for our transactions, enabling us to leverage intellectual capital and local experience acquired through their years of experience in the market. At the same time, our team of investment professionals implements our disciplined underwriting and due diligence process, with a focus on value relative to other potential opportunities within our target markets. The ability to review investment opportunities broadly (across markets), as well as deeply (within the target market), greatly improves our ability to source and execute attractive transactions for our portfolio.
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Scalable Operating Model. Our relationships enable us to tap into what we believe to be the substantial, often proprietary, transaction flow of our network, allowing for rapid deployment of available capital. Our extensive network provides us the ability to scale our operations quickly, enabling us to allocate and reallocate capital across multiple target markets and along multiple strategies, and to invest in or divest of properties rapidly without the time delay associated with building infrastructure across multiple markets, and without burdening us with excessive operating and overhead costs.
For more information, see “Business and Properties — Our Competitive Strengths.”
Growth Strategies
Our principal business objective is to generate attractive risk-adjusted investment returns by assembling a portfolio of pre-existing single-family rental homes and developing build-to-rent communities. These will be located across a diverse group of growth markets and will target a growing pool of middle-income renters seeking the single-family lifestyle without the upfront and ongoing investments associated with home ownership. By implementing our investment strategies and our institutional-quality management, we expect to be able to achieve sustainable long-term growth in both our FFO and NAV.
Value Creation Execution. We acquire single-family rental properties with potential for long-term value creation for our stockholders. We utilize the following internal and external growth strategies to drive growth in FFO and NAV for our investors:
| · | Scattered-Site Aggregation. Currently, there is a high level of fragmentation in the single-family rental home market. We believe we can generate economies of scale and enable transaction efficiencies by targeting individual or small portfolios of quality, scattered, single-family rental homes with strong and stable cash flows and aggregate them into larger portfolios, which will allow us to reduce per unit costs, including leasing, marketing, insurance and maintenance related costs through increased purchasing power and sharing of resources. We look for middle-market rents that deliver attractive unlevered yields relative to private market portfolio and public market dividend yields. To date, we have acquired scattered-site homes at year one nominal cap rates exceeding 5% and gross rental yields exceeding 9%. We see an opportunity to replicate this strategy across our markets utilizing our network as a force multiplier on the sourcing and execution fronts. |
| · | Build-to-Rent. We develop build-to-rent communities at attractive stabilized unlevered yields, investing selectively in target markets that we believe will enable us to capture development premiums on completion. We may use a convertible loan or convertible preferred equity structure to provide income during the development stage and/or the ability to capture development premiums at completion by exercising our conversion rights to take ownership. |
| · | Value-Add Renovation. We see significant potential for capital appreciation through renovation of existing assets. Our value-add strategy focuses on working with our local experts to reposition lower-quality, less current assets and drive rent growth and expand margins, increasing net operating income ("NOI") and maximizing our return on investment. |
| · | Institutional Property Management / NOI Margin Expansion. We expect to improve margins at our operating properties by deploying institutional management approaches across the portfolio - including professional management, investment in technology platforms, and leveraging economies of scale - to best position the portfolio for optimal rental growth. Through the aggregation of multiple scattered homes, we seek to address operational inefficiencies, revenue management and deferred capital maintenance at scale and to grow underlying cashflow through substantial NOI margin expansion at stabilized properties. We will also provide an aggressive asset management presence, working alongside our network partners to ensure optimal execution of the asset management plan, enabling us to drive rent growth and values. |
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| · | Technology-Aided Platform. We have implemented a data warehouse, which provides us with real-time visibility into leasing, inventory, maintenance and renovation metrics, allowing us to quickly react to changes in current operational performance and monitor trends across our portfolio. Further, we believe we will be able to utilize our data warehouse technology as a building block in the design and implementation of a portfolio-wide revenue management system to further drive NOI and margin expansion. In addition, we utilize various PropTech solutions to both acquire and maximize operational efficiency. Operational PropTech solutions include focus on streamlining value-add initiatives, integrating smart-home technology, automating the lease process and providing robust and coordinated maintenance services. |
Harvest and Redeploy Capital Selectively. On an opportunistic basis and subject to compliance with REIT restrictions, we intend to sell properties when we have executed our value creation plans and when we believe the investment has limited additional upside relative to other opportunities. This allows us to harvest profits and reinvest proceeds to maximize stockholder value.
For more information, see “Business and Properties — Growth Strategies.”
Market and Investment Opportunity
The single-family rental industry has historically been more resilient to economic cycles than the multi-family sector and is currently benefiting from significant industry tailwinds that have accelerated during the pandemic. We believe industry dynamics present a compelling investment opportunity for us, including:
| · | Supply at accessible price points remains extremely tight, with little new affordable rental product coming on-line over the last decade. These supply and affordability gaps have been in place and intensifying since the wind-down of the Great Recession, with rental prices continuing to increase in step with home price appreciation. |
| · | Limited institutional ownership of single-family rental stock, currently estimated to be approximately 2%, creates potential for outsized growth. Our institutionally operated properties benefit from experienced regional owner-operators and a technology-aided platform, delivering not only a competitive market advantage but also operating growth potential that can benefit investors. |
| · | Demand fundamentals are strong and strengthening further, particularly from rental-biased and debt-burdened millennials now reaching peak single-family house consumption age. We believe that a continued upswing in propensity to rent, coupled with the limited and depleting supply at the middle-income range, signals significant opportunity. |
For more information, see “Business and Properties — Market and Investment Opportunity.”
Our Environmental, Social and Governance Policies
Environmental: Improvements with the Environment in Mind. In keeping with Bluerock Homes’ Environmental Sustainability Policy, we undertake a variety of environmental sustainability initiatives, including the installation of energy- and water-conserving fixtures at many of our upgraded properties. Our value-add investment model generates a continually replenishing opportunity for us to improve the environmental impact of older, less sustainable properties throughout the U.S., while our ground-up, build-to-rent developments incorporate environmentally sound principles from inception. Our due diligence process incorporates evaluation of environmental impacts, which are factored into our projections for acquisition or investment, affording us the functional and financial flexibility to develop or retrofit homes to operate more responsibly in a changing environment.
Social: Social Responsibility. Consistent with Bluerock Homes’ Human Rights Policy, we strive to respect and promote all human rights, consistent with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. We maintain a diverse board of directors, both by ethnicity and gender, and remain committed to ensuring the preservation of human rights in our relationships with our employees, partners and tenants.
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In the creation of our portfolio, we are especially proud that we are able to address a critical and growing need for quality, well-managed and affordable homes in desirable communities, striving to demonstrate the possibility of embracing both people and profits. As we discuss below, according to a study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University conducted in 2020, rent-burdened households are on the rise across the U.S., with more than 10 million renters (one in four) paying more than half of their income on rent and nearly half spending more than the recommended 30% of income on rent and utilities. Through our focus on the middle-income renter with our scattered-site investment strategy, we are seeking to deliver a supply of affordable, well-maintained, single-family housing options, both for renters by choice as well as by necessity.
Governance: Corporate Governance. We have established a governance framework that fosters effective stewardship of investor and shareholder capital, promotes an ethical and transparent approach to doing business, and encourages board diversity. We are committed to operating our business under strong and accountable corporate governance practices and have structured our corporate governance in a manner that we believe aligns our interests with those of our stockholders.
For more information, see “Business and Properties—Our Environmental, Social and Governance Policies.”
The Separation and the Distribution
On December 20, 2021, Bluerock Residential, Badger Parent and Merger Sub entered into the Merger Agreement, pursuant to which, on the terms and conditions set forth therein, Bluerock Residential will merge with and into Merger Sub, with Merger Sub continuing as the surviving company in the Merger. Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution. In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement. Accordingly, the Merger will not be completed unless and until the Separation and the Distribution are completed.
The Distribution is expected to occur on [ ], subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions to the Distribution set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, by way of a special dividend to Bluerock Residential common stockholders. In the Distribution, holders of each share of Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Residential Class C common stock will be entitled to receive [ ] share[s] of Bluerock Homes common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock, as applicable, for each share of Bluerock Residential common stock held at the close of business on the record date. Bluerock Residential stockholders will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange their Bluerock Residential common stock, or take any other action to receive their shares of Bluerock Homes common stock and/or Class C common stock in the Distribution. The Distribution of Bluerock Homes common stock and Class C common stock as described in this information statement is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions, including consummation of the Separation in all material respects.
The foregoing assumes that the holder does not transfer any shares prior to the record date for the Distribution. For more information, see “The Separation and Distribution — Trading Before the Distribution Date.”
We were formed on December 16, 2021 in Maryland as a wholly owned subsidiary of Bluerock Residential. Following the Distribution, we will operate as an externally managed, publicly traded UPREIT in which our properties will be owned and operated by Bluerock Residential Holdings and its subsidiaries. Prior to the Distribution and the Merger Effective Time, Bluerock Residential will complete the Separation to separate the Single-Family Properties and certain other assets such that these businesses and assets are owned and operated by Bluerock Residential Holdings and its subsidiaries.
Following the Separation, Bluerock Homes will be the sole general partner of Bluerock Residential Holdings and own approximately [ ]% of the limited partnership units in Bluerock Residential Holdings.
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The following transactions, among others, are expected to occur in advance of the Distribution:
| · | Bluerock Residential Holdings will form the New LP. Bluerock Residential Holdings will contribute its interests in Bluerock Residential’s multi-family residential real estate business and certain other assets to the New LP; |
| · | Bluerock Residential Holdings will distribute the New LP to Bluerock Residential in exchange for a redemption of 25,210,092 of Bluerock Residential’s common units in Bluerock Residential Holdings and all of Bluerock Residential’s outstanding preferred interests. Duff & Phelps delivered an opinion on this consideration to the Bluerock Residential board of directors in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement. After consideration of this opinion and other documents and presentations, the non-management directors of the Bluerock Residential board of directors approved this exchange; |
| · | Bluerock Residential will then contribute its remaining interest in Bluerock Residential Holdings (including the general partnership interest) to Bluerock Homes; |
| · | As a result of the Separation, we will own the Single Family Properties, subject to approximately $[ ] million of existing secured property-level indebtedness, based on principal balances as of [ ]; |
| · | To provide additional liquidity and facilitate growth, and in connection with the Separation, Bluerock Residential Holdings entered into a $150 million line of credit for financing of acquisitions and refinancing of existing properties; |
| · | We and Bluerock Residential will separate our respective assets and liabilities as set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement; and |
| · | In addition to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, as of or prior to the Distribution, we and Bluerock Residential will enter into a tax matters agreement (the “Tax Matters Agreement”). |
Set forth below are diagrams that graphically illustrate, in simplified form, the existing corporate structure of Bluerock Residential, Bluerock Homes and Bluerock Residential Holdings, and the corporate structure of Bluerock Homes, Bluerock Residential Holdings, and the Bluerock Homes Manager immediately following the Separation and the Distribution.
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Existing Structure
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Structure Following the Separation and the Distribution
Ownership Structure
As a result, at the effective time of the Distribution:
| · | The holders of Bluerock Residential common stock as of the record date will own the same pro rata percentage of Bluerock Homes common stock that they held in Bluerock Residential common stock as of such record date; |
| · | Bluerock Homes’ percentage ownership of OP units will be approximately [ ]%, with the remaining [ ]% being held by the persons who are limited partners (other than Bluerock Residential) of Bluerock Residential Holdings; and |
| · | No preferred units of Bluerock Residential Holdings will be outstanding. |
Bluerock Homes’ Post-Distribution Relationship with Bluerock Residential
We will enter into a Separation and Distribution Agreement with Bluerock Residential as of or prior to the Distribution. In addition, as of or prior to the Distribution, we will enter into various other agreements to effect the Separation and the Distribution, which will provide a framework for our post-Distribution relationship with Bluerock Residential, such as the Tax Matters Agreement. For more information, see “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions.” These agreements will provide for the allocation between us and Bluerock Residential of Bluerock Residential’s assets, liabilities and obligations (including its investments, property, employee, benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to periods prior to, at and after the Distribution, and will govern certain relationships between us and Bluerock Residential after the Distribution and the Merger.
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For additional information regarding the Separation and Distribution Agreement and other transaction agreements, please refer to the sections entitled “Risk Factors — Risks Related to the Separation and the Distribution,” beginning on page 51 and “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions.”
Reasons for the Separation and the Distribution
The Bluerock Residential board of directors believes that the Separation and the Distribution are in the best interests of Bluerock Residential and its stockholders for a number of reasons, including the following:
| · | Create a focused company executing a distinct business strategy. Historically, Bluerock Residential has focused on both its multi-family residential real estate business, as well as its single-family residential real estate business. By separating the Bluerock Homes Business into a stand-alone REIT, our company will have a distinct business strategy focused on our Single-Family Properties. |
| · | Provide an opportunity for our experienced management team to implement and execute our growth strategy. Separating the Bluerock Homes Business from the remainder of Bluerock Residential’s business will allow our management team to focus on the Bluerock Homes Business, which will allow these assets to realize their full potential. |
| · | Enhance investor transparency and better highlight our attributes. The Separation and the Distribution will enable current and potential investors and the financial community to evaluate the Bluerock Homes Business independently of the multi-family residential real estate business and better assess the distinctive merits, performance and future prospects of the Bluerock Homes Business. The Separation and the Distribution will allow individual investors to better control their asset allocation decisions, providing investors the opportunity to invest in a well-capitalized REIT that is positioned to take advantage of the single-family housing sector. |
The Bluerock Residential board of directors also considered a number of potentially negative factors in evaluating the Separation and the Distribution, including the following:
| · | Assumption of certain costs and liabilities. We will bear certain costs and liabilities previously borne by the combined business of Bluerock Residential prior to the Separation, such as the costs associated with being a public company. |
| · | One-time costs of the Separation. Each of Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes will incur costs in connection with our transition to being a separate, stand-alone public company, which may include accounting, tax, legal and other professional services costs and costs to separate information systems. |
| · | Inability to realize anticipated benefits of the Separation. We may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the Separation for a variety of reasons, including: (i) following the Separation, we may be more susceptible to market fluctuations and other adverse events than if we were still a part of Bluerock Residential; and (ii) following the Separation, Bluerock Homes’ business will be less diversified than Bluerock Residential’s business prior to the Separation. |
| · | Taxability of the Distribution. The Distribution is expected to be taxable to Bluerock Residential common stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. |
The Bluerock Residential board of directors concluded that the potential benefits of the Separation and the Distribution outweighed these factors. For more information, see “The Separation and the Distribution — Reasons for the Separation and the Distribution.”
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Agreements to Be Entered into in Connection with the Separation and the Distribution
Separation and Distribution Agreement with Bluerock Residential
Prior to the Distribution, we and Bluerock Residential will enter into the Separation and Distribution Agreement, which will set forth, among other things, our agreements with Bluerock Residential regarding the principal transactions necessary to separate us from Bluerock Residential. It will also set forth other agreements that govern certain aspects of our relationship with Bluerock Residential after the Distribution Date. For more information, see “The Separation and the Distribution — The Separation and Distribution Agreement” and “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions — Agreements with Bluerock Residential.”
Tax Matters Agreement with Bluerock Residential
As of or prior to the Distribution, we and Bluerock Residential will enter into a Tax Matters Agreement that will govern the respective rights, responsibilities and obligations of Bluerock Residential and us after the Distribution with respect to tax liabilities and benefits, tax attributes, the preparation and filing of tax returns, and certain other tax matters. For more information, see “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions — Agreements with Bluerock Residential.”
Sublease with Bluerock Residential
The interests of Bluerock Residential under that certain Sublease, dated as of February 15, 2019, between AllianceBernstein L.P., as Sublandlord, and Bluerock Real Estate L.L.C. (“BRE”) and Bluerock Residential, collectively, as Subtenant, for a portion of the 32nd Floor, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York (the “Sublease”) will be assigned (subject to any required consents of Sublandlord and Landlord) to Bluerock Homes, including all of Bluerock Residential’s liabilities associated therewith, except Badger Parent will pay to Bluerock Homes $2.5 million of the remaining rent as of the consummation of the Distribution at the consummation of the Merger. We expect that this office space at 32nd Floor, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York will serve as our corporate offices following the Distribution. For more information, see “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions—Agreements with Bluerock Residential.”
Corporate Information
We were formed on December 16, 2021 in Maryland as a wholly owned subsidiary of Bluerock Residential. Prior to the contribution of the Bluerock Homes Business to us, which will occur in connection with the Separation prior to the Distribution, we will have no operations and no assets other than nominal cash from our initial capitalization. The address of our principal executive office is 1345 Avenue of the Americas, 32nd Floor, New York, NY 10105. Our telephone number is (212) 843-1601.
Commencing shortly prior to the Distribution, we will also maintain an Internet website at www.bluerockhomes.com. Our website and the information contained therein or connected thereto will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference herein, and you should not rely on any such information in making an investment decision.
Reason for Furnishing This Information Statement
This information statement is being furnished solely to provide information to common stockholders of Bluerock Residential who will receive Bluerock Homes stock in the Distribution. It is not and should not be construed as an inducement or encouragement to buy or sell any of Bluerock Homes’ securities. The information contained in this information statement is believed by us to be accurate as of the date set forth on its cover. Changes may occur after that date and neither we nor Bluerock Residential will update the information, except in the normal course of our and its respective disclosure obligations and practices.
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Risks Associated with Bluerock Homes’ Business and the Separation and the Distribution
Risks Related to our Business, Properties and Industry
| · | Our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows may be adversely affected by pandemics and outbreaks of infectious disease, particularly the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. |
| · | Our current portfolio consists of interests in the Single Family Properties, located primarily in markets in the Southern United States. Any adverse developments in local economic conditions or the demand for single-family properties in these markets may negatively impact our results of operations. |
| · | We may not be successful in identifying and consummating suitable investment opportunities. |
| · | Adverse economic conditions may negatively affect our results of operations and, as a result, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders or to realize appreciation in the value of our properties. |
| · | We have very limited sources of capital other than proceeds from future mortgage debt financings for acquisition and/or development projects, cash generated from operating activities and our $150 million revolving credit facility. |
| · | You will have limited control over changes in our policies and day-to-day operations, which limited control increases the uncertainty and risks you face as a stockholder. In addition, our board of directors may change our major operational policies without your approval. |
| · | The ownership by our executive officers, of interests representing a significant portion of our common stock on a fully diluted basis could allow our executive officers to exert significant influence over our company in a manner that may not be in the best interests of our other stockholders. |
| · | If mortgage debt is unavailable at reasonable rates, it may make it difficult for us to finance or refinance properties, which could reduce the number of properties we can acquire, our cash flows from operations and the amount of cash distributions we can make. |
Risks Related to Our Management and Relationships with Our Manager
| · | Our Manager may not be successful in identifying and consummating suitable investment opportunities. |
| · | The inability of our Manager to retain or obtain key personnel could delay or hinder implementation of our investment strategies, which could impair our ability to make distributions and could reduce the value of your investment. |
| · | Because we will be dependent upon our Manager and its affiliates to conduct our operations, any adverse changes in the financial health of our Manager or its affiliates or our relationship with them could hinder our operating performance and the return on your investment. |
| · | Our board of directors will approve very broad investment guidelines for our Manager and will not approve each investment and financing decision made by our Manager unless required by our investment guidelines. |
| · | We may have conflicts of interest with our Manager and other affiliates, which could result in investment decisions that are not in the best interests of our stockholders. |
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Risks Related to the Separation and Distribution
| · | We have no operating history as an independent company, and our historical and pro forma financial information is not necessarily representative of the results that we would have achieved as a separate, publicly traded company and may not be a reliable indicator of our future results. |
| · | The distribution of Bluerock Homes shares in the Distribution will not qualify for tax-deferred treatment and will be treated as a taxable transaction to Bluerock Residential common stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. |
| · | We may not achieve some or all of the expected benefits of the Separation and the Distribution, and the Separation and the Distribution may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. |
| · | Substantial sales of our common stock may occur in connection with the Distribution, which could cause our share price to decline. |
| · | No market currently exists for the Bluerock Homes common stock, and we cannot be certain that an active trading market for our common stock will develop or be sustained after the Distribution. The price of our common stock may be volatile or may decline. |
Risks Related Our Status as a REIT
| · | Failure to qualify as a REIT would materially and adversely affect us and the value of our common shares. |
| · | In certain circumstances, we may be subject to certain U.S. federal, state and local taxes despite our qualification as a REIT, which would reduce our cash available for distribution to you. |
| · | If Bluerock Residential failed to qualify as a REIT during certain periods prior to the Distribution, we would be prevented from electing to qualify as a REIT. |
| · | If certain of our subsidiaries, including our Operating Partnership, fail to qualify as partnerships or disregarded entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we would cease to qualify as a REIT and suffer other material adverse consequences. |
| · | Legislative or other actions affecting REITs could have a negative effect on us or our investors. |
Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common Stock
| · | A limit on the percentage of our capital stock and common stock a person may own may discourage a takeover or business combination, which could prevent our common stockholders from realizing a premium price for their common stock. |
| · | Maryland law may limit the ability of a third party to acquire control of us. |
| · | Your percentage of ownership may become diluted if we issue new shares of stock or other securities, and issuances of preferred stock or other securities by us may further subordinate the rights of the holders of our common stock. |
| · | Our ability to pay dividends is limited by the requirements of Maryland law. |
| · | We will incur increased costs as a result of operating as a public company. If we fail to maintain proper and effective internal controls, our ability to produce accurate and timely financial statements could be impaired, which could result in sanctions or other penalties that would harm our business. |
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RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider the following risks and other information in this information statement in evaluating our company and our common stock. Any of the following risks could materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Risks Related to Our Business, Properties and Industry
Our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows may be adversely affected by pandemics and outbreaks of infectious disease, particularly the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Pandemics, such as the current Covid-19 pandemic, and outbreaks of infectious disease may adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows. The ongoing Covid-19 outbreak in the United States has led entities directed by, or notionally affiliated with, the federal government as well as certain states and cities, including those in which we own properties and where our principal places of business are located, to impose and continue to implement measures intended to control the spread of Covid-19, including instituting quarantines, restrictions on travel, “shelter in place” rules, and restrictions on types of business that may continue to operate. We depend on rental revenues and other property income from residents for substantially all of our revenues. The Covid-19 outbreak, as well as continuing measures taken by governmental authorities and private actors to limit the spread of this virus or mitigate its impact, are interfering with the ability of some of our residents to meet their lease obligations and make their rent payments on time or at all.
In addition, entities directed by, or notionally affiliated with, the federal government as well as some state and local jurisdictions across the United States, have imposed temporary eviction moratoriums in connection with the Covid-19 outbreak if certain criteria are met by residents, are allowing residents to defer missed rent payments without incurring late fees, and are prohibiting rent increases. Jurisdictions and other local and national authorities may expand or extend measures imposing restrictions on our ability to enforce residents’ contractual rental obligations and limiting our ability to increase rents. While such measures are likely to enable residents to stay in their homes despite an inability to pay because of financial or other hardship stemming from the pandemic, they are likely to continue to result in loss of rental income and other property income. We cannot predict if states, municipalities, local, and/or national authorities will expand existing restrictions, if additional states or municipalities will implement similar restrictions, or when restrictions currently in place will expire.
Additionally, Covid-19 and related containment measures may also continue to interfere with the ability of our associates, suppliers, and other business partners to carry out their assigned tasks or supply materials, services, or funding at ordinary levels of performance relative to the conduct of our business.
Business continuity and disaster recovery issues which may result from the current Covid-19 pandemic or any future pandemic could materially interrupt our business operations. In accordance with phased re-opening guidelines and the ongoing spread of Covid-19 cases in certain states where we operate, the majority of our associates based at our headquarters and local offices continue working remotely. An extended period of remote work arrangements could strain our business continuity plans, introduce operational risk, including, but not limited to, cybersecurity risks, and impair our ability to manage our business.
A significant outbreak of infectious disease in the human population or pandemic may result, and the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted, in a widespread health crisis adversely affecting the economies and financial markets of many countries, resulting in an economic downturn that could negatively affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition.
The Covid-19 pandemic, or a future pandemic, could also have material and adverse effects on our ability to successfully operate our business and on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows due to, among other factors:
| · | demand for single-family rental properties decreasing substantially and/or occupancy decreasing materially; |
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| · | inability of our residents to meet their lease obligations has reduced and may continue to reduce our cash flows, and the resulting impact on rental and other property income could impact our ability to make all required debt service payments and to pay dividends to our stockholders. For example, our future securitized financings may require that monthly cash collections from their respective property collateral pools be controlled by the servicer until monthly debt service payments and property management fees are paid and escrow reserves are funded. So long as we remain in compliance with certain covenants contained in the underlying loan agreements, after such monthly payments are made the servicer will release all residual net cash flow to us. If the property collateral pools experience higher rates of resident defaults or delinquencies, these covenants may not be achieved. This would result in the servicer holding all residual net cash flow from any collateral pool that does not meet the covenant requirements, net of a monthly funding to us for budgeted operating expenses, in blocked collateral accounts for the benefit of the securitized lender rather than being made available to us. Our lack of access to the net cash flow from securitized collateral pools could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition; |
| · | a general decline in business activity and demand for real estate transactions could adversely affect (1) our ability to acquire or dispose of single-family homes on terms that are attractive or at all and (2) the value of our homes and our business such that we may recognize impairment on the carrying value of our investments in single-family residential properties and other assets subject to impairment review, including, but not limited to, goodwill; |
| · | difficulty accessing debt and equity capital on attractive terms, or at all, impacts to our credit ratings, and a severe disruption of, and/or instability in, the global financial markets or deteriorations in credit and financing conditions may affect our access to capital necessary to fund business operations, including acquisitions, or address maturing liabilities on a timely basis; |
| · | the financial impact of the Covid-19 pandemic could negatively impact our compliance with financial covenants of our credit facility and/or other debt agreements and may result in a default and potentially an acceleration of indebtedness, which non-compliance could negatively impact our ability to make additional borrowings or to exercise extension options thereunder; |
| · | a deterioration in our ability to operate in affected areas or delays in the supply of products or services by vendors that are needed for our efficient operations; and |
| · | the potential negative consequences for the health of our associates, particularly if a significant number of them are impacted, could result in a deterioration in our ability to ensure business continuity during this disruption. |
The extent to which the Covid-19 pandemic ultimately impacts our operations depends on ongoing developments, which remain highly uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, including the scope, severity, and duration of the pandemic, variants of Covid-19 (including Delta and Omicron), the extent and duration of actions taken to contain the pandemic or mitigate its impact, the availability of an effective vaccine and therapeutic drugs and the effectiveness of the distribution of any such vaccines and therapeutic drugs, and the direct and indirect economic effects of the pandemic, containment measures, monetary and/or fiscal policies implemented to provide support or relief to businesses and/or residents, and other government, regulatory, and/or legislative changes precipitated by the Covid-19 pandemic, among others.
The ongoing development and fluidity of this situation precludes any prediction as to the full adverse impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the Covid-19 pandemic presents material uncertainty and risk with respect to our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and performance. While we have taken steps to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on our results of operations, there can be no assurance that these efforts will be successful.
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We face numerous risks associated with the real estate industry that could adversely affect our results of operations through decreased revenues or increased costs.
As a real estate company, we are subject to various changes in real estate conditions, and any negative trends in such real estate conditions may adversely affect our results of operations through decreased revenues or increased costs. These conditions include:
| · | changes in national, regional and local economic conditions, which may be negatively impacted by concerns about inflation, deflation, government deficits, high unemployment rates, decreased consumer confidence and liquidity concerns, particularly in markets in which we have a high concentration of properties; |
| · | fluctuations and relative increases in interest rates, which could adversely affect our ability to obtain financing on favorable terms or at all; |
| · | the inability of tenants to pay rent; |
| · | the existence and quality of the competition, such as the attractiveness of our properties as compared to our competitors’ properties based on considerations such as convenience of location, rental rates and safety record; |
| · | increased operating costs, including increased real property taxes, HOA fees, maintenance, insurance and utilities costs; |
| · | weather conditions that may increase or decrease energy costs and other weather-related expenses; |
| · | oversupply of single-family housing or a reduction in demand for real estate in the markets in which our properties are located; |
| · | costs and time period required to convert acquisitions to rental homes; |
| · | a favorable interest rate environment that may result in a significant number of potential residents of our properties deciding to purchase homes instead of renting; |
| · | rules, regulations and/or policy initiatives by government and private actors, including HOAs, to discourage or deter the purchase of single-family properties by entities owned or controlled by institutional investors; |
| · | construction of new supply; |
| · | changes in, or increased costs of compliance with, laws and/or governmental regulations, including those governing usage, zoning, the environment and taxes; and |
| · | rent control or stabilization laws, or other laws regulating rental housing, which could prevent us from raising rents to offset increases in operating costs. |
Moreover, other factors may adversely affect our results of operations, including potential liability under environmental and other laws and other unforeseen events, many of which are discussed elsewhere in the following risk factors. Any or all of these factors could materially adversely affect our results of operations through decreased revenues or increased costs.
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Our current portfolio consists of interests in the Single Family Properties, located primarily in markets in the Southern United States. Any adverse developments in local economic conditions or the demand for single-family properties in these markets may negatively impact our results of operations.
Our current portfolio of properties consists primarily of single-family properties geographically concentrated in the Southern United States, and our portfolio going forward may consist primarily of the same. As such, we are currently susceptible to local economic conditions and the supply of and demand for single-family properties in these markets. If there is a downturn in the economy or an oversupply of or decrease in demand for single-family properties in these markets, our business could be materially adversely affected to a greater extent than if we owned a real estate portfolio that was more diversified in terms of both geography and industry focus.
We are employing a business model with a limited track record, which may make our business difficult to evaluate.
Until recently, the single-family rental business consisted primarily of private and individual investors in local markets and was managed individually or by small, non-institutional owners and property managers. Our business strategy involves purchasing, renovating, maintaining, and managing a large number of residential properties and leasing them to qualified residents. Entry into this market by large, well-capitalized investors is a relatively recent trend, so few peer companies exist and none have yet established long-term track records that might assist us in predicting whether our business model and investment strategy can be implemented and sustained over an extended period of time. It may be difficult for you to evaluate our potential future performance without the benefit of established long-term track records from companies implementing a similar business model. We may encounter unanticipated problems as we continue to refine our business model, which may adversely affect our results of operations and ability to make distributions to our stockholders and cause our stock price to decline significantly.
We have a limited operating history and may not be able to operate our business successfully or generate sufficient cash flows to make or sustain distributions to our stockholders.
We have a limited operating history. As a result, an investment in our common stock may entail more risk than an investment in the common stock of a real estate company with a substantial operating history. If we are unable to operate our business successfully, we would not be able to generate sufficient cash flow to make or sustain distributions to our stockholders, and you could lose all or a portion of the value of your ownership in our common stock. Our ability to successfully operate our business and implement our operating policies and investment strategy depends on many factors, including:
| · | our ability to effectively manage renovation, maintenance, marketing, and other operating costs for our properties; |
| · | economic conditions in our markets, including changes in employment and household earnings and expenses, as well as the condition of the financial and real estate markets and the economy, in general; |
| · | our ability to maintain high occupancy rates and target rent levels; |
| · | the availability of, and our ability to identify, attractive acquisition opportunities consistent with our investment strategy; |
| · | our ability to compete with other investors entering the single-family rental industry; |
| · | costs that are beyond our control, including title litigation, litigation with residents or tenant organizations, legal compliance, property taxes, HOA fees, and insurance; |
| · | judicial and regulatory developments affecting landlord-tenant relations that may affect or delay our ability to dispossess or evict occupants or increase rental rates; |
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| · | reversal of population, employment, or homeownership trends in our markets; and |
| · | interest rate levels and volatility, which may affect the accessibility of short-term and long-term financing on desirable terms. |
In addition, we face significant competition in acquiring attractive properties on advantageous terms, and the value of the properties that we acquire may decline substantially after we purchase them.
A significant portion of our costs and expenses are fixed and we may not be able to adapt our cost structure to offset declines in our revenue.
Many of the expenses associated with our business, such as property taxes, HOA fees, insurance, utilities, acquisition, renovation and maintenance costs, and other general corporate expenses are relatively inflexible and will not necessarily decrease with a reduction in revenue from our business. Some components of our fixed assets depreciate more rapidly and require ongoing capital expenditures. Our expenses and ongoing capital expenditures are also affected by inflationary increases, and certain of our cost increases may exceed the rate of inflation in any given period or market. Our rental income is affected by many factors beyond our control, such as the availability of alternative rental housing and economic conditions in our markets. In addition, state and local regulations may require us to maintain properties that we own, even if the cost of maintenance is greater than the value of the property or any potential benefit from renting the property, or pass regulations that limit our ability to increase rental rates. As a result, we may not be able to fully offset rising costs and capital spending by increasing rental rates, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash available for distribution.
A significant number of our residential properties are part of HOAs and we and our residents are subject to the rules and regulations of such HOAs, which are subject to change and which may be arbitrary or restrictive, and violations of such rules may subject us to additional fees and penalties and litigation with such HOAs, which would be costly.
A significant number of our properties are located within HOAs, which are private entities that regulate the activities of owners and occupants of, and levy assessments on, properties in a residential subdivision. The HOAs in which we own our properties may have enacted or may from time to time enact onerous or arbitrary rules that restrict our ability to restore, market, lease, or operate our properties in accordance with our investment strategy, or require us to restore or maintain such properties at standards or costs that are in excess of our planned budgets. Some HOAs impose limits on the number of property owners who may lease their homes, which, if met or exceeded, would cause us to incur additional costs to sell the property and opportunity costs from lost rental revenue. Furthermore, we may have residents who violate HOA rules and incur fines for which we may be liable as the property owner and for which we may not be able to obtain reimbursement from the resident. Additionally, the governing bodies of the HOAs in which we own property may not make important disclosures about the properties or may block our access to HOA records, initiate litigation, restrict our ability to sell our properties, impose assessments, or arbitrarily change the HOA rules. We may be unaware of or unable to review or comply with HOA rules before purchasing a property, and any such excessively restrictive or arbitrary regulations may cause us to sell such property at a loss, prevent us from leasing such property, or otherwise reduce our cash flow from such property, which would have an adverse effect on our returns on these properties. Several states have enacted laws that provide that a lien for unpaid monies owed to an HOA may be senior to our ownership interests and/or the priority of mortgage liens on properties, which, if not cured, may give rise to events of default under certain of our indebtedness or which otherwise could have a material adverse impact on us.
Increasing property taxes, HOA fees, and insurance costs may negatively affect our financial results.
As a result of our substantial real estate holdings, the cost of property taxes and insuring our properties is a significant component of our expenses. Our properties are subject to real and personal property taxes that may increase as tax rates change and as the real properties are assessed or reassessed by taxing authorities. As the owner of our properties, we are ultimately responsible for payment of the taxes to the applicable government authorities. If real property taxes increase, our expenses will increase. If we fail to pay any such taxes, the applicable taxing authority may place a lien on the real property and the real property may be subject to a tax sale.
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In addition, a significant portion of our properties are located within HOAs and we are subject to HOA rules and regulations. HOAs have the power to increase monthly charges and make assessments for capital improvements and common area repairs and maintenance. Property taxes, HOA fees, and insurance premiums are subject to significant increases, which can be outside of our control. If the costs associated with property taxes, HOA fees and assessments, or insurance rise significantly and we are unable to increase rental rates due to rent control laws or other regulations to offset such increases, our results of operations would be negatively affected.
Our investments are and will continue to be concentrated in our markets and in the single-family properties sector of the real estate industry, which exposes us to seasonal fluctuations in rental demand and downturns in our markets or in the single-family properties sector.
Our investments in real estate assets are and will continue to be concentrated in our markets and in the single-family properties sector of the real estate industry. A downturn or slowdown in the rental demand for single-family housing caused by adverse economic, regulatory, or environmental conditions, or other events, in our markets may have a greater impact on the value of our properties or our operating results than if we had more fully diversified our investments. We believe that there are seasonal fluctuations in rental demand with demand higher in the spring and summer than in the late fall and winter. Such seasonal fluctuations may impact our operating results. The Covid-19 pandemic, or a future pandemic, could also result in demand for single-family rental properties decreasing substantially and/or occupancy decreasing materially. See “—Our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows may be adversely affected by pandemics and outbreaks of infectious disease, particularly the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.”
In addition to general, regional, national, and international economic conditions, our operating performance will be impacted by the economic conditions in our markets. We base a substantial part of our business plan on our belief that property values and operating fundamentals for single-family properties in our markets will continue to improve over the near to intermediate term. However, these markets have experienced substantial economic downturns in recent years and could experience similar or worse economic downturns in the future. Additionally, a significant outbreak of infectious disease in the human population or pandemic may result, and the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted, in a widespread health crisis adversely affecting the economies and financial markets of many countries, resulting in an economic downturn that could negatively affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition. See “—Our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows may be adversely affected by pandemics and outbreaks of infectious disease, particularly the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.” We can provide no assurance as to the extent property values and operating fundamentals in these markets will improve, if at all. If the recent economic downturn in these markets returns or if we fail to accurately predict the timing of economic improvement in these markets, the value of our properties could decline and our ability to execute our business plan may be adversely affected to a greater extent than if we owned a real estate portfolio that was more geographically diversified, which could adversely affect our financial condition, operating results, and ability to make distributions to our stockholders and cause the value of our common stock to decline.
We may not be able to effectively control the timing and costs relating to the renovation and maintenance of our properties, which may adversely affect our operating results and ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
Our properties may require some level of renovation either immediately upon their acquisition or in the future following expiration of a lease or otherwise. We may acquire properties that we plan to extensively renovate. We may also acquire properties that we expect to be in good condition only to discover unforeseen defects and problems that require extensive renovation and capital expenditures. To the extent properties are leased to existing residents, renovations may be postponed until the resident vacates the premises, and we will pay the costs of renovating. In addition, from time to time, we may perform ongoing maintenance or make ongoing capital improvements and replacements and perform significant renovations and repairs that resident deposits and insurance may not cover. Because our portfolio consists of geographically dispersed properties, our ability to adequately monitor or manage any such renovations or maintenance may be more limited or subject to greater inefficiencies than if our properties were more geographically concentrated.
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Our properties have infrastructure and appliances of varying ages and conditions. Consequently, we routinely retain independent contractors and trade professionals to perform physical repair work and are exposed to all of the risks inherent in property renovation and maintenance, including potential cost overruns, increases in labor and materials costs, delays by contractors in completing work, delays in the timing of receiving necessary work permits, certificates of occupancy, and poor workmanship. Additionally, Covid-19 and related containment measures may also continue to interfere with the ability of our associates, suppliers, and other business partners to carry out their assigned tasks or supply materials, services, or funding at ordinary levels of performance relative to the conduct of our business. See “—Our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows may be adversely affected by pandemics and outbreaks of infectious disease, particularly the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.” If our assumptions regarding the costs or timing of renovation and maintenance across our properties prove to be materially inaccurate, our operating results and ability to make distributions to our stockholders may be adversely affected.
We have in the past and may from time to time in the future acquire some of our homes through the auction process, which could subject us to significant risks that could adversely affect us.
We have in the past and may from time to time in the future acquire some of our homes through the auction process, including auctions of homes that have been foreclosed upon by third-party lenders. Such auctions may occur simultaneously in a number of markets, including monthly auctions on the same day of the month in certain markets. As a result, we may only be able to visually inspect properties from the street and will purchase these homes without a contingency period and in “as is” condition with the risk that unknown defects in the property may exist. Upon acquiring a new home, we may have to evict residents who are in unlawful possession before we can secure possession and control of the home. The holdover occupants may be the former owners or residents of a property or others who are illegally in possession. Securing control and possession from these occupants can be both costly and time-consuming or generate negative publicity for our business and harm our reputation.
Allegations of deficiencies in auction practices could result in claims challenging the validity of some auctions, potentially placing our claim of ownership to the properties at risk. Since we may not have obtained title insurance policies for properties we acquired through the auction process, such instances or such proceedings may result in a complete loss without compensation.
Title defects could lead to material losses on our investments in our properties.
Our title to a property may be challenged for a variety of reasons, and in such instances title insurance may not prove adequate. For example, while we do not lend to homeowners and accordingly do not foreclose on a home, our title to properties we acquire at foreclosure auctions may be subject to challenge based on allegations of defects in the foreclosure process undertaken by other parties. In addition, we have in the past, and may from time to time in the future, acquire a number of our properties on an “as is” basis, at auctions or otherwise. When acquiring properties on an “as is” basis, title commitments are often not available prior to purchase and title reports or title information may not reflect all senior liens, which may increase the possibility of acquiring houses outside predetermined acquisition and price parameters, purchasing residences with title defects and deed restrictions, HOA restrictions on leasing, or purchasing the wrong residence without the benefit of title insurance prior to closing. Although we use various policies, procedures, and practices to assess the state of title prior to purchase and obtain title insurance if an acquired property is placed into a securitization facility in connection with a mortgage loan financing, there can be no assurance that these policies and procedures will be effective, which could lead to a material if not complete loss on our investment in such properties.
For properties we acquire at auction, we similarly may not obtain title insurance prior to purchase, and we are not able to perform the type of title review that is customary in acquisitions of real property. As a result, our knowledge of potential title issues will be limited, and title insurance protection may not be in place. This lack of title knowledge and insurance protection may result in third parties having claims against our title to such properties that may materially and adversely affect the values of the properties or call into question the validity of our title to such properties. Without title insurance, we are fully exposed to, and would have to defend ourselves against, such claims. Further, if any such claims are superior to our title to the property we acquired, we risk loss of the property purchased.
Increased scrutiny of title matters could lead to legal challenges with respect to the validity of the sale. In the absence of title insurance, the sale may be rescinded, and we may be unable to recover our purchase price, resulting in a complete loss. Title insurance obtained subsequent to purchase offers little protection against discoverable defects because they are typically excluded from such policies. In addition, any title insurance on a property, even if acquired, may not cover all defects or the significant legal costs associated with obtaining clear title.
Any of these risks could adversely affect our operating results, cash flows, and ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
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We are subject to certain risks associated with bulk portfolio acquisitions and dispositions.
We have acquired and disposed of, and may continue to acquire and dispose of, properties we acquire or sell in bulk from or to other owners of single-family homes, banks, and loan servicers. When we purchase properties in this manner, we often do not have the opportunity to conduct interior inspections or conduct more than cursory exterior inspections on a portion of the properties. Such inspection processes may fail to reveal major defects associated with such properties, which may cause the amount of time and cost required to renovate and/or maintain such properties to substantially exceed our estimates. Bulk portfolio acquisitions are also more complex than single-family home acquisitions, and we may not be able to implement this strategy successfully. The costs involved in locating and performing due diligence (when feasible) on portfolios of homes as well as negotiating and entering into transactions with potential portfolio sellers could be significant, and there is a risk that either the seller may withdraw from the entire transaction for failure to come to an agreement or the seller may not be willing to sell us the bulk portfolio on terms that we view as favorable. In addition, a seller may require that a group of homes be purchased as a package even though we may not want to purchase certain individual assets in the bulk portfolio.
Moreover, to the extent the management and leasing of such properties has not been consistent with our property management and leasing standards, we may be subject to a variety of risks, including risks relating to the condition of the properties, the credit quality and employment stability of the residents, and compliance with applicable laws, among others. In addition, financial and other information provided to us regarding such portfolios during our due diligence may be inaccurate, and we may not discover such inaccuracies until it is too late to seek remedies against such sellers. To the extent we pursue such remedies, we may not be able to successfully prevail against the seller in an action seeking damages for such inaccuracies. If we conclude that certain individual properties purchased in bulk portfolio sales do not fit our target investment criteria, we may decide to sell, rather than renovate and lease, such properties, which could take an extended period of time and may not result in a sale at an attractive price.
From time to time we engage in bulk portfolio dispositions of properties consistent with our business and investment strategy. With respect to any such disposition, the purchaser may default on payment or otherwise breach the terms of the relevant purchase agreement, and it may be difficult for us to pursue remedies against such purchaser or retain or resume possession of the relevant properties. To the extent we pursue such remedies, we may not be able to successfully prevail against the purchaser.
We depend on our residents and their willingness to meet their lease obligations and renew their leases for substantially all of our revenues. Poor resident selection, defaults, and nonrenewals by our residents may adversely affect our reputation, financial performance, and ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
We depend on rental income from residents for substantially all of our revenues. As a result, our success depends in large part upon our ability to attract and retain qualified residents for our properties. Our reputation, financial performance, and ability to make distributions to our stockholders would be adversely affected if a significant number of our residents fail to meet their lease obligations or fail to renew their leases. For example, residents may default on rent payments, make unreasonable and repeated demands for service or improvements, make unsupported or unjustified complaints to regulatory or political authorities, use our properties for illegal purposes, damage or make unauthorized structural changes to our properties that are not covered by security deposits, refuse to leave the property upon termination of the lease, engage in domestic violence or similar disturbances, disturb nearby residents with noise, trash, odors, or eyesores, fail to comply with HOA regulations, sublet to less desirable individuals in violation of our lease, or permit unauthorized persons to live with them. Additionally, the Covid-19 outbreak, as well as continuing measures taken by governmental authorities and private actors to limit the spread of this virus or mitigate its impact, are interfering with the ability of some of our residents to meet their lease obligations and make their rent payments on time or at all. Furthermore, entities directed by, or notionally affiliated with, the federal government as well as some state and local jurisdictions across the United States, have imposed temporary eviction moratoriums in connection with the Covid-19 outbreak if certain criteria are met by residents, are allowing residents to defer missed rent payments without incurring late fees, and are prohibiting rent increases. Jurisdictions and other local and national authorities may expand or extend measures imposing restrictions on our ability to enforce residents’ contractual rental obligations and limiting our ability to increase rents. See “—Our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows may be adversely affected by pandemics and outbreaks of infectious disease, particularly the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.”
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Damage to our properties may delay re-leasing after eviction, necessitate expensive repairs, or impair the rental income or value of the property resulting in a lower than expected rate of return. Increases in unemployment levels and other adverse changes in economic conditions in our markets could result in substantial resident defaults. In the event of a resident default or bankruptcy, we may experience delays in enforcing our rights as landlord at that property and will incur costs in protecting our investment and re-leasing the property.
Our leases are relatively short-term, exposing us to the risk that we may have to re-lease our properties frequently, which we may be unable to do on attractive terms, on a timely basis, or at all.
Substantially all of our new leases have a duration of one to two years. As such leases permit the residents to leave at the end of the lease term, we anticipate our rental revenues may be affected by declines in market rental rates more quickly than if our leases were for longer terms. Short-term leases may result in high turnover, which involves costs such as restoring the properties, marketing costs, and lower occupancy levels. Our resident turnover rate and related cost estimates may be less accurate than if we had more operating data upon which to base such estimates. If the rental rates for our properties decrease or our residents do not renew their leases, our operating results and ability to make distributions to our stockholders could be adversely affected. Alternatively, to the extent that a lease term exceeds one year, we may lose the opportunity to raise rents in an appreciating market and be locked into a lower rent until such lease expires.
Climate change may adversely affect our business.
To the extent that significant changes in the climate occur in areas where our communities are located, we may experience extreme weather and/or changes in precipitation and temperature, all of which may result in physical damage to, or a decrease in demand for, properties located in these areas or affected by these conditions. Should the impact of climate change be material in nature, including significant property damage to or destruction of our properties, or occur for lengthy periods of time, our financial condition or results of operations may be adversely affected. In addition, changes in federal, state, and local legislation and regulation based on concerns about climate change could result in increased capital expenditures on our existing properties (for example, to improve their energy efficiency and/or resistance to inclement weather) without a corresponding increase in revenue, resulting in adverse impacts to our results of operations.
Eminent domain could lead to material losses on our investments in our properties.
Governmental authorities may exercise eminent domain to acquire the land on which our properties are built in order to build roads and other infrastructure. Any such exercise of eminent domain would allow us to recover only the fair value of the affected properties. In addition, “fair value” could be substantially less than the real market value of the property for a number of years, and we could effectively have no profit potential from properties acquired by the government through eminent domain.
Tenant relief laws, including laws regulating evictions, rent control laws, and other regulations that limit our ability to increase rental rates may negatively impact our rental income and profitability.
As the landlord of numerous properties, we are involved from time to time in evicting residents who are not paying their rent or who are otherwise in material violation of the terms of their lease. Eviction activities impose legal and managerial expenses that raise our costs and expose us to potential negative publicity. The eviction process is typically subject to legal barriers, mandatory “cure” policies, our internal policies and procedures, and other sources of expense and delay, each of which may delay our ability to gain possession and stabilize the property. Additionally, state and local landlord-tenant laws may impose legal duties to assist residents in relocating to new housing, or restrict the landlord’s ability to remove the resident on a timely basis or to recover certain costs or charge residents for damage residents cause to the landlord’s premises. Because such laws vary by state and locality, we must be familiar with and take all appropriate steps to comply with all applicable landlord-tenant laws, and need to incur supervisory and legal expenses to ensure such compliance. To the extent that we do not comply with state or local laws, we may be subjected to civil litigation filed by individuals, in class actions or actions by state or local law enforcement and our reputation and financial results may suffer. We may be required to pay our adversaries’ litigation fees and expenses if judgment is entered against us in such litigation or if we settle such litigation.
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Furthermore, state and local governmental agencies may introduce rent control laws or other regulations that limit our ability to increase rental rates, which may affect our rental income. Especially in times of recession and economic slowdown, rent control initiatives can acquire significant political support. If rent controls unexpectedly became applicable to certain of our properties, our revenue from and the value of such properties could be adversely affected.
The Covid-19 pandemic in the United States has led entities directed by, or notionally affiliated with, the federal government as well as certain states and cities, including those in which we own properties and where our principal places of business are located, to impose and continue to implement measures intended to control the spread of Covid-19, including instituting quarantines, restrictions on travel, “shelter in place” rules, and restrictions on types of business that may continue to operate. Entities directed by, or notionally affiliated with, the federal government as well as some state and local jurisdictions across the United States, have imposed temporary eviction moratoriums in connection with the Covid-19 outbreak if certain criteria are met by residents, are allowing residents to defer missed rent payments without incurring late fees, and are prohibiting rent increases. Jurisdictions and other local and national authorities may expand or extend measures imposing restrictions on our ability to enforce residents’ contractual rental obligations and limiting our ability to increase rents. While such measures are likely to enable residents to stay in their homes despite an inability to pay because of financial or other hardship stemming from the pandemic, they are likely to continue to result in loss of rental income and other property income. We cannot predict if states, municipalities, local, and/or national authorities will expand existing restrictions, if additional states or municipalities will implement similar restrictions, or when restrictions currently in place will expire. See “—Our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows may be adversely affected by pandemics and outbreaks of infectious disease, particularly the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.”
We may become a target of legal demands, litigation (including class actions), and negative publicity by tenant and consumer rights organizations, which could directly limit and constrain our operations and may result in significant litigation expenses and reputational harm.
Numerous tenant rights and consumer rights organizations exist throughout the country and operate in our markets, and we may attract attention from some of these organizations and become a target of legal demands, litigation, and negative publicity. Many such consumer organizations have become more active and better funded in connection with mortgage foreclosure-related issues, and with the increased market for homes arising from displaced homeownership, some of these organizations may shift their litigation, lobbying, fundraising, and grassroots organizing activities to focus on landlord-resident issues. While we intend to conduct our business lawfully and in compliance with applicable landlord-tenant and consumer laws, such organizations might work in conjunction with trial and pro bono lawyers in one or multiple states to attempt to bring claims against us on a class action basis for damages or injunctive relief and to seek to publicize our activities in a negative light. We cannot anticipate what form such legal actions might take or what remedies they may seek.
Additionally, such organizations may lobby local county and municipal attorneys or state attorneys general to pursue enforcement or litigation against us, may lobby state and local legislatures to pass new laws and regulations to constrain or limit our business operations, adversely impact our business, or may generate negative publicity for our business and harm our reputation. If they are successful in any such endeavors, they could directly limit and constrain our operations and may impose on us significant litigation expenses, including settlements to avoid continued litigation or judgments for damages or injunctions.
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We may not be successful in identifying and consummating suitable investment opportunities.
Our investment strategy requires us to identify suitable investment opportunities compatible with our investment criteria. We may not be successful in identifying suitable opportunities that meet our criteria or in consummating investments, including those identified as part of our investment pipeline, on satisfactory terms or at all. Our ability to make investments on favorable terms may be constrained by several factors including, but not limited to, competition from other investors with significant capital, including other publicly traded REITs and institutional investment funds, which may significantly increase investment costs; and/or the inability to finance an investment on favorable terms or at all. The failure to identify or consummate investments on satisfactory terms, or at all, may impede our growth and negatively affect our cash available for distribution to our stockholders.
Adverse economic conditions may negatively affect our results of operations and, as a result, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders or to realize appreciation in the value of our properties.
Our operating results may be adversely affected by market and economic challenges, which may negatively affect our returns and profitability and, as a result, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders or to realize appreciation in the value of our properties. These market and economic challenges include, but are not limited to, the following:
| · | any future downturn in the U.S. economy and high unemployment could result in tenant defaults under leases, vacancies in our properties and concessions or reduced rental rates under new leases due to reduced demand. In addition, such downturns could result in reduced demand for homes, which may reduce home prices and make home purchases more affordable as an alternative to renting, which also may materially adversely reduce the demand for rental homes; |
| · | the rate of household formation or population growth in our target markets or a continued or exacerbated economic slow-down experienced by the local economies where our properties are located or by the real estate industry generally may result in changes in supply of or demand for our homes; and |
| · | the failure of the real estate market to attract the same level of capital investment in the future that it attracted at the time of our purchases or a reduction in the number of companies seeking to acquire properties may result in the value of our investments not appreciating or decreasing, possibly significantly, below the amount we pay for these investments. |
The length and severity of any economic slow-down or downturn cannot be predicted. Our operations and, as a result, our ability to make distributions to our stockholders and/or our ability to realize appreciation in the value of our properties could be materially and adversely affected to the extent that an economic slow-down or downturn is prolonged or becomes severe.
Our revenues are significantly influenced by demand for single-family home rental properties generally, and a decrease in such demand will likely have a greater adverse effect on our revenues than if we owned a more diversified real estate portfolio.
Our current portfolio is focused predominately on single-family home properties, and we expect that our portfolio going forward will focus predominately on the same. As a result, we are subject to risks inherent in investments in a single industry, and a decrease in the demand for single-family home rentals would likely have a greater adverse effect on our rental revenues than if we owned a more diversified real estate portfolio.
The properties in our investment pipeline are subject to contingencies that could delay or prevent acquisition or investment in those properties.
At any given time, we are generally in discussions regarding a number of properties for acquisition or investment, which we refer to as our investment pipeline. However, we may not have completed our diligence process on these properties or development projects or have definitive investment or purchase and sale agreements, as applicable, and several other conditions may be required to be met in order for us to complete these acquisitions or developments, including approval by our investment committee or board of directors. If we are planning to use proceeds of an offering of our securities to fund these acquisitions or investments and are unable to complete the acquisition of the interests or investment in any of these properties or experience significant delays in executing any such acquisition or investment, we will have issued securities in an offering without realizing a corresponding current or future increase in earnings and cash flow from acquiring those interests or developing those properties, and may incur expenses in connection with our attempts in consummating such acquisition or investment, which could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, to the extent the uses of proceeds from an offering are designated for the acquisition of or investment in these properties, we will have no specific designated use for the net proceeds from the offering allocated to the purchase or development and investors will be unable to evaluate in advance the manner in which we will invest, or the economic merits of the properties we may ultimately acquire or develop with such proceeds.
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Our expenses may remain constant or increase, even if our revenues decrease, causing our results of operations to be adversely affected.
Costs associated with our business, such as mortgage payments, real estate taxes, insurance premiums and maintenance costs, are relatively inflexible and generally do not decrease, and may increase, when homes are not occupied, rental rates decrease, tenants fail to pay rent or other circumstances cause a reduction in property revenues. As a result, if revenues drop, we may not be able to commensurately reduce our expenses, which would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Competition in identifying and acquiring our properties could adversely affect our ability to implement our business and growth strategies, which could materially and adversely affect us.
In acquiring our properties, we compete with a variety of institutional investors, including other REITs, specialty finance companies, public and private funds, savings and loan associations, banks, mortgage bankers, insurance companies, institutional investors, investment banking firms, financial institutions, governmental bodies, and other entities. We also compete with individual private home buyers and small scale investors.
Certain of our competitors may be larger in certain of our markets and may have greater financial or other resources than we do. Some competitors may have a lower cost of funds and access to funding sources that may not be available to us. In addition, any potential competitor may have higher risk tolerances or different risk assessments and may not be subject to the operating constraints associated with qualification for taxation as a REIT, which could allow them to consider a wider variety of investments. Competition may result in fewer investments, higher prices, a broadly dispersed portfolio of properties that does not lend itself to efficiencies of concentration, acceptance of greater risk, lower yields and a narrower spread of yields over our financing costs. In addition, competition for desirable investments could delay the investment of our capital, which could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows. As a result, there can be no assurance that we will be able to identify and finance investments that are consistent with our investment objectives or to achieve positive investment results, and our failure to accomplish any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on us and cause the value of our common stock to decline.
Our investments will be dependent on tenants for revenue, and tenant failure to pay in a timely manner could reduce our revenues from rents, resulting in the decline in the value of your investment.
The underlying value of our properties and the ability to make distributions to you depend upon the ability of the tenants of our properties to generate enough income to pay their rents in a timely manner, and the success of our investments depends upon the occupancy levels, rental income and operating expenses of our properties and our company. Tenants’ inability to timely or fully pay their rents may be impacted by their employment prospects and/or other constraints on their personal finances, including debts, purchases and other factors. These and other changes beyond our control may adversely affect our tenants’ ability to make their required lease payments. In the event of a tenant default or bankruptcy, we may experience delays in enforcing our rights as landlord and may incur costs in protecting our investment and re-leasing our property. We may be unable to re-lease the property for the rent previously received. We may be unable to sell an unoccupied property without incurring a loss. These events and others could cause us to reduce any amount of distributions we plan to make to stockholders and may also cause the value of your investment to decline.
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Our operating results and distributable cash flow depend on our ability to generate revenue from leasing our properties to tenants on terms favorable to us.
Our operating results depend, in large part, on revenues derived from leasing our single-family properties. We are subject to the credit risk of our tenants, and to the extent our tenants default on their leases or fail to make their required rental payments we may suffer a decrease in our revenue. In addition, if a tenant does not fully pay its rent, we may not be able to enforce our rights as landlord without delays and we may incur substantial legal costs. We are also subject to the risk that, upon the expiration of leases, leases may not be renewed, the homes may not be re-leased or the terms of renewal or re-leasing (including the cost of required renovations or concessions to tenants) may be less favorable to us than current lease terms. If vacancies continue for a long period of time, we may suffer reduced revenues resulting in decreased distributions to our stockholders. In addition, the resale value of such affected properties could be diminished. Further, costs associated with real estate investment, such as real estate taxes and maintenance costs, generally are not reduced when circumstances cause a reduction in revenue. These events would cause a significant decrease in net revenues and could cause us to reduce the amount of distributions to our stockholders.
As the owner of real property, we could become subject to liability for asbestos-containing building materials in the buildings on our properties.
Some of our properties may contain asbestos-containing materials. Environmental laws typically require that owners or operators of buildings with asbestos-containing building materials properly manage and maintain these materials, adequately inform or train those who may come in contact with asbestos and undertake special precautions, including removal or other abatement, in the event that asbestos is disturbed during building renovation or demolition. These laws may impose fines and penalties on building owners or operators for failure to comply with these requirements. In addition, third parties may be entitled to seek recovery from owners or operators for personal injury associated with exposure to asbestos-containing building materials.
In addition, many insurance carriers are excluding asbestos-related claims from standard policies, pricing asbestos endorsements at prohibitively high rates or adding significant restrictions to this coverage. Because of our difficulty in obtaining specialized coverage at rates that correspond to the perceived level of risk, we may not obtain insurance for asbestos-related claims. We will continue to evaluate the availability and cost of additional insurance coverage from the insurance market. If we purchase insurance for asbestos, the cost could have a negative impact on our results of operations.
Costs associated with addressing indoor air quality issues, moisture infiltration and resulting mold remediation may be costly.
As a general matter, concern about indoor exposure to mold or other air contaminants has been increasing as such exposure has been alleged to have a variety of adverse effects on health. Some of our properties may contain microbial matter such as mold and mildew. The terms of our property and general liability policies generally exclude certain mold-related claims. Should an uninsured loss arise against us, we would be required to use our funds to resolve the issue, including litigation costs. We can offer no assurance that liabilities resulting from indoor air quality, moisture infiltration and the presence of or exposure to mold will not have a future impact on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
A change in the United States government policy with regard to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac could impact our financial condition.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are a major source of financing for the single-family real estate sector. We and other companies in the single-family real estate sector depend frequently on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to finance growth by purchasing or guarantying single-family real estate loans. Prior initiatives in the recent past, including proposed legislation, have sought to wind down Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Any decision by the government to eliminate or downscale Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, to reduce their acquisitions or guarantees of single-family real estate mortgage loans, or to reduce government support for single-family housing more generally, may adversely affect interest rates, capital availability, development of single-family communities and our ability to refinance our existing mortgage obligations as they come due and to obtain additional long-term financing for the acquisition of additional single-family communities on favorable terms or at all.
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If we are not able to cost-effectively maximize the life of our properties, we may incur greater than anticipated capital expenditure costs, which may adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
While many of the existing properties we acquire have undergone substantial renovations since they were constructed, older properties may carry certain risks including unanticipated repair costs associated with older properties, increased maintenance costs as older properties continue to age, and cost overruns due to the need for special materials and/or fixtures specific to older properties. Although we take a proactive approach to property preservation, utilizing a preventative maintenance plan, and selective improvements that mitigate the cost impact of maintaining exterior building features and aging building components, if we are not able to cost-effectively maximize the life of our properties, we may incur greater than anticipated capital expenditure costs which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and/or ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
Any uninsured losses or high insurance premiums will reduce our net income and the amount of our cash distributions to stockholders.
We will attempt to ensure adequate insurance is obtained to cover significant areas of risk to us as a company and to our properties. However, there are types of losses at the property level, generally catastrophic in nature, such as losses due to wars, acts of terrorism, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, pollution or environmental matters, which are uninsurable or not economically insurable, or may be insured subject to limitations, such as large deductibles or co-payments. We may not have adequate insurance coverage for such losses. If any of our properties incurs a casualty loss that is not fully insured, the value of our assets will be reduced by any such uninsured loss. In addition, other than any working capital reserve or other reserves we may establish for a particular property, we could have no source of funding to repair or reconstruct any uninsured damaged property. Also, to the extent we must pay unexpectedly large amounts for insurance, we could suffer reduced cash flow that would result in lower distributions to stockholders.
We may have difficulty selling real estate investments, and our ability to distribute all or a portion of the net proceeds from such sale to our stockholders may be limited.
Real estate investments are relatively illiquid. We will have a limited ability to vary our portfolio in response to changes in economic or other conditions. We will also have a limited ability to sell assets in order to fund working capital and similar capital needs. When we sell any of our properties, we may not realize a gain on such sale. We may not elect to distribute any proceeds from the sale of properties to our stockholders; for example, we may use such proceeds to:
| · | purchase additional properties; |
| · | fund capital commitments to our joint ventures; |
| · | repay debt, if any; |
| · | buy out interests of any co-venturers or other partners in any joint venture in which we are a party; |
| · | create working capital reserves; and/or |
| · | make repairs, maintenance, tenant improvements or other capital improvements or expenditures to our remaining properties. |
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Our ability to sell our properties may also be limited by our need to avoid a 100% penalty tax that is imposed on gain recognized by a REIT from the sale of property characterized as held for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business. In order to ensure that we avoid such characterization, we may be required to hold our properties for the production of rental income for a minimum period of time, generally two years, and comply with certain other requirements in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). As such, we could be restricted from selling a property at an opportune time to maximize proceeds.
Representations and warranties made by us in connection with sales of our properties may subject us to liability that could result in losses and could harm our operating results and, therefore, distributions we make to our stockholders.
When we sell a property, we may be required to make representations and warranties regarding the property and other customary items. In the event of a breach of such representations or warranties, the purchaser of the property may have claims for damages against us, rights to indemnification from us or otherwise have remedies against us. In any such case, we may incur liabilities that could result in losses and could harm our operating results and, therefore distributions we make to our stockholders.
Our investments could be adversely affected if a member of our Bluerock operating partner network performs poorly at one or more of our projects, which could adversely affect returns to our stockholders.
In general, we expect to rely on members of our operating partner network for the day-to-day management and development of our real estate investments. Members of our network are not fiduciaries to us, and generally will have limited capital invested in a project, if any. One or more members of our network may perform poorly in managing our project investments for a variety of reasons, including failure to properly adhere to budgets or properly implement the property business plan. A member of our network may also underperform for strategic reasons related to projects or assets that the partner is involved in with a Bluerock affiliate but not our company. If a member of our network does not perform well, we may not be able to ameliorate the adverse effects of poor performance by terminating the partner and finding a replacement partner to manage our projects in a timely manner. In such an instance, the returns to our stockholders could be adversely affected.
Actions of our joint venture partners could subject us to liabilities in excess of those contemplated or prevent us from taking actions which are in the best interests of our stockholders, which could result in lower investment returns to our stockholders.
We have entered into, and in the future intend to enter into, joint ventures with affiliates and other third parties, including with members of our operating partner network, to acquire or improve properties. We may also purchase properties in partnerships, co-tenancies or other co-ownership arrangements. Such investments may involve risks not otherwise present when acquiring real estate directly, including, for example:
| · | joint venturers may share certain approval rights over major decisions and reduce our flexibility to maximize project values or limit property costs; |
| · | that such co-venturer, co-owner or partner may at any time have economic or business interests or goals which are or which become inconsistent with our business interests or goals, including inconsistent goals relating to the timing of the sale of properties held in the joint ventures and/or the timing of termination or liquidation of the joint ventures; |
| · | the possibility that our co-venturer, co-owner or partner in an investment might become insolvent or bankrupt and thus be unable to fulfill its financial obligations to us in that investment; |
| · | the possibility that we may incur liabilities as a result of an action or omission taken by our co-venturer, co-owner or partner; |
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| · | that such co-venturer, co-owner or partner may be in a position to take action contrary to our instructions or requests or contrary to our policies or objectives, including our policy with respect to qualifying and maintaining our qualification as a REIT; |
| · | disputes between us and our joint venturers may result in litigation or arbitration that would increase our expenses and prevent our officers and directors from focusing their time and effort on our business and result in subjecting the properties owned by the applicable joint venture to additional risk; or |
| · | under certain joint venture arrangements, neither venture partner may have the power to control the venture, and an impasse could be reached which might have a negative influence on the joint venture. |
These events might subject us to costs or liabilities in excess of those contemplated and thus reduce your investment returns. If we have a right of first refusal or buy/sell right to buy out a co-venturer, co-owner or partner, we may be unable to finance such a buy-out if it becomes exercisable or we may be required to purchase such interest at a time when it might not otherwise be in our best interest to do so. If our ownership interest is subject to a buy/sell right, we may not have sufficient cash, available borrowing capacity or other capital resources to allow us to elect to purchase an interest of a co-venturer subject to the buy/sell right, in which case we may be forced to sell our interest as the result of the exercise of such right when we would otherwise prefer to keep our interest. Finally, we may not be able to sell our interest in a joint venture if or when we desire to exit the venture.
Your investment return may be reduced if we are required to register as an investment company under the Investment Company Act; if we are subject to registration under the Investment Company Act, we will not be able to continue our business.
Neither we, nor our Operating Partnership, nor any of our subsidiaries intend to register as an investment company under the Investment Company Act. We are organized as a holding company that conducts its businesses primarily through the Operating Partnership, which in turn is a holding company conducting its business through its subsidiaries. We expect that our Operating Partnership’s and subsidiaries’ investments in real estate will represent the substantial majority of our total asset mix, which would not subject us to the Investment Company Act. In order to maintain an exemption from regulation under the Investment Company Act, we intend to engage, through our Operating Partnership and our wholly and majority owned subsidiaries, primarily in the business of buying real estate, and qualifying real estate investments must be made within a year after cash is received by us. If we are unable to invest a significant portion of cash proceeds in properties within one year of receipt, we may avoid being required to register as an investment company by temporarily investing any unused proceeds in government securities with low returns, which would reduce the cash available for distribution to stockholders and possibly lower your returns.
We expect that most of our assets will continue to be held through wholly owned or majority owned subsidiaries of our Operating Partnership. We expect that most of these subsidiaries will be outside the definition of an investment company under Section 3(a)(1) of the Investment Company Act as they are generally expected to hold at least 60% of their assets in real property or in entities that they manage or co-manage that own real property. Section 3(a)(1)(A) of the Investment Company Act defines an investment company as any issuer that is or holds itself out as being engaged primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading in securities. We believe that neither we nor the Operating Partnership will be considered an investment company under Section 3(a)(1)(A) of the Investment Company Act because neither we nor the Operating Partnership will engage primarily or hold itself out as being engaged primarily in the business of investing, reinvesting or trading in securities. Rather, through the Operating Partnership’s wholly-owned or majority owned subsidiaries, we and the Operating Partnership will be primarily engaged in the non-investment company businesses of these subsidiaries.
Section 3(a)(1)(C) of the Investment Company Act defines an investment company as any issuer that is engaged or proposes to engage in the business of investing, reinvesting, owning, holding or trading in securities and owns or proposes to acquire investment securities having a value exceeding 40% of the value of the issuer’s total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities and cash items) on an unconsolidated basis, which we refer to as the 40% test. Excluded from the term “investment securities,” among other things, are U.S. government securities and securities issued by majority owned subsidiaries that are not themselves investment companies and are not relying on the exception from the definition of investment company set forth in Section 3(c)(1) or Section 3(c)(7) of the Investment Company Act. We believe that we, our Operating Partnership and most of the subsidiaries of our Operating Partnership will not fall within this definition of investment company as we invest primarily in real property, through our wholly or majority owned subsidiaries, the majority of which we expect to have at least 60% of their assets in real property or in entities that they manage or co-manage that own real property. Both we and our Operating Partnership intend to conduct our operations so that they comply with the 40% test. We will monitor our holdings to ensure continuing and ongoing compliance with this test.
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In the event that the value of investment securities held by the subsidiaries of our Operating Partnership were to exceed 40%, we expect our subsidiaries to be able to rely on the exclusion from the definition of “investment company” provided by Section 3(c)(5)(C) of the Investment Company Act. Section 3(c)(5)(C), as interpreted by the staff of the SEC, requires each of our subsidiaries relying on this exception to invest at least 55% of its portfolio in “mortgage and other liens on and interests in real estate,” which we refer to as “qualifying real estate assets” and maintain at least 70% to 90% of its assets in qualifying real estate assets or other real estate-related assets. The remaining 20% of the portfolio can consist of miscellaneous assets.
What we buy and sell is therefore limited to these criteria. How we determine to classify our assets for purposes of the Investment Company Act will be based in large measure upon no-action letters issued by the SEC staff in the past and other SEC interpretive guidance. These no-action positions were issued in accordance with factual situations that may be substantially different from the factual situations we may face, and a number of these no-action positions were issued more than ten years ago. Pursuant to this guidance, and depending on the characteristics of the specific investments, certain joint venture investments may not constitute qualifying real estate assets and therefore investments in these types of assets may be limited. No assurance can be given that the SEC will concur with our classification of our assets. Future revisions to the Investment Company Act or further guidance from the SEC may cause us to lose our exclusion from registration or force us to re-evaluate our portfolio and our investment strategy. Such changes may prevent us from operating our business successfully.
In the event that we, or our Operating Partnership, were to acquire assets that could make either entity fall within the definition of investment company under Section 3(a)(1) of the Investment Company Act, we believe that we would still qualify for an exclusion from registration pursuant to Section 3(c)(6). Section 3(c)(6) excludes from the definition of investment company any company primarily engaged, directly or through majority owned subsidiaries, in one or more of certain specified businesses. These specified businesses include the real estate business described in Section 3(c)(5)(C) of the Investment Company Act. It also excludes from the definition of investment company any company primarily engaged, directly or through majority owned subsidiaries, in one or more of such specified businesses from which at least 25% of such company’s gross income during its last fiscal year is derived, together with any additional business or businesses other than investing, reinvesting, owning, holding, or trading in securities. Although the SEC staff has issued little interpretive guidance with respect to Section 3(c)(6), we believe that we and our Operating Partnership may rely on Section 3(c)(6) if 55% of the assets of our Operating Partnership consist of, and at least 55% of the income of our Operating Partnership is derived from, qualifying real estate assets owned by wholly owned or majority owned subsidiaries of our Operating Partnership.
In addition, we believe that the nature of our assets and the sources of our income exclude us from the definition of an investment company pursuant to Rule 3a-1 under the Investment Company Act. Rule 3a-1 provides an exclusion from registration as an investment company if an issuer meets both an asset and an income test and is not otherwise primarily engaged in an investment company business by, among other things, holding itself out to the public as such or by taking controlling interests in companies with a view to realizing profits through subsequent sales of these interests. Generally, an issuer satisfies the asset test of Rule 3a - 1 if it has no more than 45% of the value of its total assets (exclusive of U.S. government securities and cash items) in the form of securities other than interests in majority owned subsidiaries and companies which it primarily controls. A company satisfies the income test of Rule 3a-1 if it has derived no more than 45% of its net income after taxes for its last four fiscal quarters combined from securities other than interests in majority owned subsidiaries and primarily controlled companies through which it engages primarily in a business other than investing in securities. We believe that as long as we control more than 25% of the voting power, which control is greater than any other person’s, of our Operating Partnership we may rely on Rule 3a-1.
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To ensure that neither we, nor our Operating Partnership nor subsidiaries are required to register as an investment company, each entity may be unable to sell assets they would otherwise want to sell and may need to sell assets they would otherwise wish to retain. In addition, we, our Operating Partnership or our subsidiaries may be required to acquire additional income or loss-generating assets that we might not otherwise acquire or forego opportunities to acquire interests in companies that we would otherwise want to acquire. Although we, our Operating Partnership and our subsidiaries intend to monitor our respective portfolios periodically and prior to each acquisition or disposition, any of these entities may not be able to maintain an exclusion from registration as an investment company. If we, our Operating Partnership or our subsidiaries are required to register as an investment company but fail to do so, the unregistered entity would be prohibited from engaging in our business, and criminal and civil actions could be brought against such entity. In addition, the contracts of such entity would be unenforceable unless a court required enforcement, and a court could appoint a receiver to take control of the entity and liquidate its business.
Our internal control over financial reporting may not be effective, which could adversely affect our reputation, results of operations and stock price.
The accuracy of our financial reporting depends on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements and may not prevent or detect misstatements because of its inherent limitations. These limitations include the possibility of human error, inadequacy or circumvention of internal controls and fraud. If we do not attain and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting or implement controls sufficient to provide reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and fair presentation of our financial statements, we could be unable to file accurate financial reports on a timely basis, and our reputation, results of operations and stock price could be materially adversely affected.
We have very limited sources of capital other than proceeds from future mortgage debt financings for acquisition and/or development projects, cash generated from operating activities and our $150 million revolving credit facility.
We have very limited sources of capital other than proceeds from future mortgage debt financings for acquisition and/or development projects, cash generated from operating activities and our $150 million revolving credit facility. As a result, we may not be able to pay our liabilities and obligations when they come due other than with the net proceeds of an offering. Depending on business conditions at the time we might not be able to effectuate an offering, which in either case may limit our ability to implement our business plan.
You will have limited control over changes in our policies and day-to-day operations, which limited control increases the uncertainty and risks you face as a stockholder. In addition, our board of directors may change our major operational policies without your approval.
Our board of directors determines our major policies, including our policies regarding financing, growth, debt capitalization, REIT qualification and distributions. Our board of directors may amend or revise these and other policies without a vote of the stockholders. Under the MGCL and our charter, our stockholders have a right to vote only on limited matters. See “Description of Our Capital Stock.”
Our Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of our company and the selection and management of investments and has broad discretion over the use of proceeds from offerings of our securities. Accordingly, you should not purchase our securities unless you are willing to entrust all aspects of the day-to-day management and the selection and management of investments to our Manager, who will manage our company in accordance with the Management Agreement. In addition, our Manager may retain independent contractors to provide various services for our company, and you should note that such contractors will have no fiduciary duty to you or the other stockholders and may not perform as expected or desired.
In addition, while the section entitled “Business and Properties” and any applicable prospectus or prospectus supplement outlines our investment policies and generally describes our target portfolio, our board of directors may make adjustments to these policies based on, among other things, prevailing real estate market conditions and the availability of attractive investment opportunities. While we have no current intention of changing our investment policies, we may not forego an attractive investment merely because it does not fit within our targeted asset class or portfolio composition. We may use the proceeds of an offering to purchase or invest in any type of real estate which we determine is in the best interest of our stockholders. As such, our actual portfolio composition may vary substantially from the target portfolio described in the section entitled “Business and Properties” and the applicable prospectus or prospectus supplement.
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Our Manager will manage our portfolio pursuant to very broad investment guidelines approved by our board of directors, which does not approve each investment and financing decision made by our management unless required by our investment guidelines.
Our Manager will be authorized to follow very broad investment guidelines established by our board of directors. Our board of directors will periodically review our investment guidelines and our portfolio of assets but will not, and will not be required to, review all of our proposed investments, except in limited circumstances as set forth in our investment guidelines. In addition, in conducting periodic reviews, our board of directors may rely primarily on information provided to them by our Manager. Furthermore, transactions entered into by our Manager may be costly, difficult or impossible to unwind by the time they are reviewed by our board of directors. Our Manager has great latitude within the broad parameters of our investment guidelines in determining the types and amounts of assets in which to invest on our behalf, including making investments that may result in returns that are substantially below expectations or result in losses, which would materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations, or may otherwise not be in the best interests of our stockholders.
We are highly dependent on information systems and therefore systems failures, cybersecurity incidents or other technology disruptions could negatively impact our business.
Our operations are highly dependent upon our information systems that support our business processes, including marketing, leasing, resident and vendor communication, property management and work order processing, finance and intracompany communications throughout our operations. Certain critical components of our information systems are dependent upon third-party providers and a significant portion of our business operations are conducted over the internet. These systems and websites require access to telecommunications or the internet, each of which is subject to system security risks, cybersecurity breaches, outages, and other risks. As a result, we could be severely impacted by a catastrophic occurrence, such as a natural disaster or a terrorist attack, or a circumstance that disrupted access to telecommunications, the internet or operations at our third-party providers, including viruses or experienced computer programmers that could penetrate network security defenses and cause system failures and disruptions of operations. We have implemented processes, procedures and internal controls to help mitigate cybersecurity risks and cyber intrusions, maintain the security and integrity of our information technology networks and related systems, and manage the risk of a security breach or disruption, but these measures, as well as our increased awareness of the nature and extent of a risk of a cyber incident, do not guarantee that our financial results, operations, business relationships or confidential information will not be negatively impacted by such an incident. In addition, while we believe we utilize appropriate duplication and back-up procedures, a significant outage in telecommunications, the internet or at our third-party providers could nonetheless negatively impact our operations.
Our third-party service providers are primarily responsible for the security of their own information technology environments and in certain instances, we rely significantly on third-party service providers to supply and store our sensitive data in a secure manner. All such third-party vendors face risks relating to cybersecurity similar to ours which could disrupt their businesses and therefore adversely impact us. While we provide guidance and specific requirements in some cases, we do not directly control any of such parties’ information technology security operations, or the amount of investment they place in guarding against cybersecurity threats. Accordingly, we are subject to any flaws in or breaches to their information technology systems or those which they operate for us.
Although no material incidents have occurred to date, we cannot be certain that our security efforts and measures will be effective or that our financial results will not be negatively impacted by such an incident should one occur.
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Security breaches and other disruptions could compromise our information and expose us to liability, which would cause our business and reputation to suffer.
Information security risks have generally increased in recent years due to the rise in new technologies and the increased sophistication and activities of perpetrators of cyber-attacks. In the ordinary course of our business we acquire and store sensitive data, including intellectual property, our proprietary business information and personally identifiable information of our prospective and current residents, our employees and third-party service providers in our offices and on our networks and website and on third-party vendor networks. We may share some of this information with vendors who assist us with certain aspects of our business. The secure processing and maintenance of this information is critical to our operations and business and growth strategies. Despite our security measures and those of our third-party vendors, our information technology and such infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or breached due to employee error, malfeasance or other disruptions. Any such breach could compromise our networks and the information stored there could be accessed, publicly disclosed, lost or stolen. Any such access, disclosure or other loss of information could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability under laws that protect the privacy of personal information, regulatory penalties, disruption to our operations and the services we provide to customers or damage our reputation, and thus could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations. In addition, a security breach could require that we expend significant additional resources to enhance our information security systems and could result in a disruption to our operations.
Conflicts of interest may exist or could arise in the future with our Operating Partnership and its limited partners, which may impede business decisions that could benefit our stockholders.
Conflicts of interest may exist or could arise as a result of the relationships between us and our affiliates, on the one hand, and our Operating Partnership or any member thereof, on the other. Our directors and officers have duties to our company and our stockholders under applicable Maryland law in connection with their management of our company. At the same time, we, as general partner of our Operating Partnership, have fiduciary duties to our Operating Partnership and to its limited partners under Delaware law in connection with the management of our Operating Partnership. Our duties to our Operating Partnership and its limited partners as the general partner may come into conflict with the duties of our directors and officers to our company and our stockholders. These conflicts may be resolved in a manner that is not in the best interest of our stockholders.
Conflicts of interest exist between our interests and the interests of our Manager and its affiliates.
Examples of these potential conflicts of interest include:
| · | The possibility that certain of our officers and their respective affiliates will face conflicts of interest relating to the purchase and leasing of properties, and that such conflicts may not be resolved in our favor; |
| · | The possibility that the competing demands for the time of certain of our officers may result in them spending insufficient time on our business, which may result in our missing investment opportunities or having less efficient operations, which could reduce our profitability and result in lower distributions to you; and |
| · | Some of our current investments, generally in development projects, have been made through joint venture arrangements with various investment funds affiliated with affiliates of our Manager, which arrangements were not the result of arm’s-length negotiations of the type normally conducted between unrelated co-venturers, and which could result in a disproportionate benefit to affiliates of our Manager; |
Any of these and other conflicts of interest could have a material adverse effect on the returns on our investments, our ability to make distributions to stockholders and the trading price of our stock.
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The ownership by our executive officers of interests representing a significant portion of our common stock on a fully diluted basis could allow our executive officers to exert significant influence over our company in a manner that may not be in the best interests of our other stockholders.
As of the Distribution, our executive officers are expected to beneficially own interests representing approximately [ ]% of the total economic interest in our common stock and Class C common stock on a fully diluted basis, where “on a fully diluted basis” assumes that all outstanding OP units, C-OP units (as defined in “Partnership Agreement—Classes of Partnership Units”), LTIP units and C-LTIP units (as defined in “Partnership Agreement—Classes of Partnership Units”), whether vested or unvested, in each case are ultimately settled for common stock of Bluerock Homes. In addition, as of the Distribution, the aggregate voting power of our executive officers is expected to represent approximately [ ]% of the total voting power of our outstanding common stock and Class C common stock. As a result of our executive officers’ significant ownership in our company, our executive officers will have significant influence over our affairs and could exercise such influence in a manner that is not in the best interests of our other stockholders, including with respect to matters submitted to our stockholders for approval such as the election of directors and any merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets. Our executive officers may have interests that differ from our other stockholders, and may accordingly vote in ways that may not be consistent with the interests of those other stockholders.
Our executive officers will have competing demands on their time and attention.
Our executive officers have competing demands on their respective time and attention, principally with respect to the provision of services to affiliates of our Manager. Our executive officers are permitted to devote time to certain outside activities, so long as those duties and activities do not unreasonably interfere with the performance of their respective duties. We may use mortgage and other debt financing to acquire properties or interests in properties and otherwise incur other indebtedness, which increases our expenses and could subject us to the risk of losing properties in foreclosure if our cash flow is insufficient to make loan payments.
We are permitted to acquire real properties and other real estate-related investments, including entity acquisitions, by assuming either existing financing secured by the asset or by borrowing new funds. In addition, we may incur or increase our mortgage debt by obtaining loans secured by some or all of our assets to obtain funds to acquire additional investments or to pay distributions to our stockholders. We also may borrow funds if necessary to satisfy the requirement that we distribute at least 90% of our REIT taxable income, determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains, to our stockholders annually, or otherwise as is necessary or advisable to assure that we qualify and maintain our qualification as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
There is no limit on the amount we may invest in any single property or other asset or on the amount we can borrow to purchase any individual property or other investment. If we mortgage a property and have insufficient cash flow to service the debt, we risk an event of default which may result in our lenders foreclosing on the properties securing the mortgage.
If we cannot repay or refinance loans incurred to purchase our properties, or interests therein, then we may lose our interests in the properties secured by the loans we are unable to repay or refinance.
High levels of debt or increases in interest rates could increase the amount of any future loan payments, which could reduce the cash available for distribution to stockholders.
Our policies do not limit us from incurring debt. For purposes of calculating our leverage, we will assume full consolidation of all of our real estate investments, whether or not they would be consolidated under GAAP, include assets we have classified as held for sale, and include any joint venture level indebtedness in our total indebtedness.
Higher debt levels will cause us to incur higher interest charges, resulting in higher debt service payments, and may be accompanied by restrictive covenants. Interest we pay reduces cash available for distribution to stockholders. Additionally, with respect to our variable rate debt, increases in interest rates increase our interest costs, which reduces our cash flow and our ability to make distributions to you. In addition, if we need to repay existing debt during periods of rising interest rates, we could be required to liquidate one or more of our investments in properties at times that may not permit realization of the maximum return on such investments and could result in a loss. In addition, if we are unable to service our debt payments, our lenders may foreclose on our interests in the real property that secures the loans we have entered into.
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Our future variable rate debt may bear interest at a rate derived from SOFR. SOFR is a relatively new reference rate. The publication of SOFR began in April 2018, and, therefore, it has a very limited history. The future performance of SOFR cannot be predicted based on the limited historical performance. Since the initial publication of SOFR, changes in SOFR have, on occasion, been more volatile than changes in other benchmark or market rates, such as United States dollar LIBOR. Additionally, any successor rate to SOFR may not have the same characteristics as SOFR or LIBOR. As a result, the amount of interest we may pay on future variable rate debt indexed to SOFR is difficult to predict.
High mortgage rates may make it difficult for us to finance or refinance properties, which could reduce the number of properties we can acquire, our cash flow from operations and the amount of cash distributions we can make.
To qualify and maintain our qualification as a REIT, we will be required to distribute at least 90% of our REIT taxable income (determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains) to our stockholders in each taxable year, and thus our ability to retain internally generated cash is limited. Accordingly, our ability to acquire properties or to make capital improvements to or remodel properties will depend on our ability to obtain debt or equity financing from third parties or the sellers of properties. If mortgage debt is unavailable at reasonable rates, we may not be able to finance the purchase of properties. If we place mortgage debt on properties, we run the risk of being unable to refinance the properties when the debt becomes due or of being unable to refinance on favorable terms. If interest rates are higher when we refinance the properties, our income could be reduced. We may be unable to refinance properties. If any of these events occurs, our cash flow would be reduced. This, in turn, would reduce cash available for distribution to you and may hinder our ability to raise capital by issuing more stock or borrowing more money.
Lenders may require us to enter into restrictive covenants relating to our operations, which could limit our ability to make distributions to you.
When providing financing, a lender may impose restrictions on us that affect our distribution and operating policies and our ability to incur additional debt. Loan documents we enter into may contain covenants that limit our ability to further mortgage the property, discontinue insurance coverage or impose other limitations. These or other limitations may limit our flexibility and prevent us from achieving our operating plans.
If mortgage debt is unavailable at reasonable rates, it may make it difficult for us to finance or refinance properties, which could reduce the number of properties we can acquire, our cash flows from operations and the amount of cash distributions we can make.
If we are unable to borrow monies on terms and conditions that we find acceptable, we likely will have to reduce the number of properties we can purchase, and the return on the properties we do purchase may be lower. If we place mortgage debt on properties, we run the risk of being unable to refinance the properties when the debt becomes due or of being unable to refinance on favorable terms. If interest rates are higher when we refinance the properties, our income could be reduced. As such, we may find it difficult, costly or impossible to refinance indebtedness that is maturing. If any of these events occur, our interest cost would increase as a result, which would reduce our cash flow. This, in turn, could reduce cash available for distribution to our stockholders and may hinder our ability to raise capital by issuing more stock or borrowing more money. If we are unable to refinance maturing indebtedness with respect to a particular property and are unable to pay the same, then the lender may foreclose on such property.
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Volatility in and regulation of the commercial mortgage-backed securities market has limited and may continue to impact the pricing of secured debt.
As a result of the past crisis in the residential mortgage-backed securities markets, the most recent global recession and some occasional market concerns over Bluerock Homes’ ability to refinance or repay existing commercial mortgage-backed securities as they come due, liquidity previously provided by the commercial mortgage-backed securities and collateralized debt obligations markets has significantly decreased. In addition, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act imposes significant new regulations related to the mortgage-backed securities industry and market participants, which has contributed to uncertainty in the market. The volatility in the commercial mortgage-backed securities market could result in the following adverse effects on our incurrence of secured debt, which could have a materially negative impact on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flow and cash available for distribution:
| · | higher loan spreads; |
| · | tighter loan covenants; |
| · | reduced loan-to-value ratios and resulting borrower proceeds; and |
| · | higher amortization and reserve requirements. |
Some of our mortgage loans may have “due-on-sale” provisions, which may impact the manner in which we acquire, sell and/or finance our properties.
We may obtain financing with “due-on-sale” and/or “due-on-encumbrance” clauses when financing our properties. Due-on-sale clauses in mortgages allow a mortgage lender to demand full repayment of the mortgage loan if the borrower sells the mortgaged property. Similarly, due-on-encumbrance clauses allow a mortgage lender to demand full repayment if the borrower uses the real estate securing the mortgage loan as security for another loan. In such event, we may be required to sell our properties on an all-cash basis, which may make it more difficult to sell the property or reduce the selling price.
Lenders may be able to recover against our other properties under our mortgage loans.
In financing our property acquisitions, we will seek to obtain secured nonrecourse loans. However, only recourse financing may be available, in which event, in addition to the property securing the loan, the lender would have the ability to look to our other assets for satisfaction of the debt if the proceeds from the sale or other disposition of the property securing the loan are insufficient to fully repay it. Also, in order to facilitate the sale of a property, we may allow the buyer to purchase the property subject to an existing loan whereby we remain responsible for the debt.
If we are required to make payments under any “bad boy” carve-out guaranties that we may provide in connection with certain mortgages and related loans, our business and financial results could be materially adversely affected.
In obtaining certain nonrecourse loans, we may provide standard carve-out guaranties. These guaranties are only applicable if and when the borrower directly, or indirectly through agreement with an affiliate, joint venture partner or other third party, voluntarily files a bankruptcy or similar liquidation or reorganization action or takes other actions that are fraudulent or restricted (commonly referred to as “bad boy” guaranties). Although we believe that “bad boy” carve-out guaranties are not guaranties of payment in the event of foreclosure or other actions of the foreclosing lender that are beyond the borrower’s control, some lenders in the real estate industry have recently sought to make claims for payment under such guaranties. In the event such a claim were made against us under a “bad boy” carve-out guaranty following a foreclosure, and such claim were successful, our business and financial results could be materially adversely affected.
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Interest-only indebtedness may increase our risk of default and ultimately may reduce our funds available for distribution to our stockholders.
We may finance our property acquisitions using interest-only mortgage indebtedness. During the interest-only period, the amount of each scheduled payment will be less than that of a traditional amortizing mortgage loan. The principal balance of the mortgage loan will not be reduced (except in the case of prepayments) because there are no scheduled monthly payments of principal during this period. After the interest-only period, we will be required either to make scheduled payments of amortized principal and interest or to make a lump-sum or “balloon” payment at maturity. These required principal or balloon payments will increase the amount of our scheduled payments and may increase our risk of default under the related mortgage loan. If the mortgage loan has an adjustable interest rate, the amount of our scheduled payments also may increase at a time of rising interest rates. Increased payments and substantial principal or balloon maturity payments will reduce the funds available for distribution to our stockholders because cash otherwise available for distribution will be required to pay principal and interest associated with these mortgage loans.
To hedge against interest rate fluctuations, we may use derivative financial instruments that may be costly and ineffective, may reduce the overall returns on your investment and may expose us to the credit risk of counterparties.
To the extent consistent with qualifying and maintaining our qualification as a REIT, we may use derivative financial instruments to hedge exposures to interest rate fluctuations on loans secured by our assets and investments in collateralized mortgage-backed securities. Derivative instruments may include interest rate swap contracts, interest rate cap or floor contracts, futures or forward contracts, options or repurchase agreements. Our actual hedging decisions will be determined in light of the facts and circumstances existing at the time of the hedge and may differ from time to time.
To the extent that we use derivative financial instruments to hedge against interest rate fluctuations, we will be exposed to financing, basis risk and legal enforceability risks. In this context, credit risk is the failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. If the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes us, which creates credit risk for us. Basis risk occurs when the index upon which the contract is based is more or less variable than the index upon which the hedged asset or liability is based, thereby making the hedge less effective. Finally, legal enforceability risks encompass general contractual risks, including the risk that the counterparty will breach the terms of, or fail to perform its obligations under, the derivative contract. If we are unable to manage these risks effectively, our results of operations, financial condition and ability to make distributions to you will be adversely affected.
Complying with REIT requirements may limit our ability to hedge risk effectively.
We must satisfy two gross income tests annually to qualify and maintain our qualification as a REIT. First, at least 75% of our gross income for each taxable year must consist of defined types of income that we derive, directly or indirectly, from investments relating to real property or mortgages on real property or qualified temporary investment income (the “75% Gross Income Test”). Second, at least 95% of our gross income for each taxable year must consist of income that is qualifying income for purposes of the 75% Gross Income Test, other types of interest and dividends, gain from the sale or disposition of shares or securities, or any combination of these (the “95% Gross Income Test”).
These and other REIT provisions of the Code may limit our ability to hedge the risks inherent to our operations. From time to time, we may enter into hedging transactions with respect to one or more of our assets or liabilities. Our hedging transactions may include entering into interest rate swaps, caps and floors, options to purchase these items, and futures and forward contracts. Any income or gain derived by us from transactions that hedge certain risks, such as the risk of changes in interest rates, will not be treated as gross income for purposes of either the 75% Gross Income Test or the 95% Gross Income Test if specific requirements are met. Such requirements include that the hedging transaction be properly identified within prescribed time periods and that the transaction either (1) hedge risks associated with indebtedness issued by us that is incurred to acquire or carry real estate assets, (2) manage the risks of currency fluctuations with respect to income or gain that qualifies under the 75% Gross Income Test or 95% Gross Income Test (or assets that generate such income), or (3) offset a transaction described in (1) or (2) if a portion of the hedge indebtedness is extinguished or the related property disposed of. To the extent that we do not properly identify such transactions as hedges, hedge with other types of financial instruments, or hedge other types of indebtedness, the income from those transactions is not likely to be treated as qualifying income for purposes of the 75% Gross Income Test and the 95% Gross Income Test. As a result of these rules, we may have to limit the use of hedging techniques that might otherwise be advantageous, which could result in greater risks associated with interest rate or other changes than we would otherwise incur.
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You may not receive any profits resulting from the sale of one of our properties, or receive such profits in a timely manner, because we may provide financing for the purchaser of such property.
If we liquidate our company, you may experience a delay before receiving your share of the proceeds of such liquidation. In a forced or voluntary liquidation, we may sell our properties either subject to or upon the assumption of any then-outstanding mortgage debt or, alternatively, may provide financing to purchasers. We may take a purchase-money obligation secured by a mortgage as partial payment. We do not have any limitations or restrictions on our taking such purchase-money obligations. To the extent that we receive promissory notes or other property instead of cash from sales, such proceeds, other than any interest payable on those proceeds, will not be included in net sale proceeds until and to the extent the promissory notes or other property are actually paid, sold, refinanced or otherwise disposed of. In certain cases, we may receive initial down payments in the year of sale in an amount less than the selling price and subsequent payments may be spread over a number of years. In such cases, you may experience a delay in the distribution of the proceeds of a sale until such time.
We are subject to increasing scrutiny from investors with respect to the social and environmental impact of our business, which may adversely impact our business and ability to raise capital from such investors.
In recent years, certain investors have placed increasing importance on the implications of our business with respect to Environmental, Social, and Governance (“ESG”) matters. Investors’ increased focus and activism related to ESG and similar matters may constrain our business operations. In addition, investors may decide to refrain from investing in us as a result of their assessment of our approach to and consideration of the ESG factors.
Risks Related to Our Management and Relationships with Our Manager
We are dependent on our Manager and its key personnel for our success.
We will be externally advised by our Manager and, pursuant to the Management Agreement, our Manager will not be obligated to dedicate any specific personnel exclusively to us, nor will its personnel be obligated to dedicate any specific portion of their time to the management of our business. As a result, we cannot provide any assurances regarding the amount of time our Manager will dedicate to the management of our business. Moreover, each of our officers will also be an employee of our Manager or one of its affiliates, and will have significant responsibilities for other investment vehicles currently managed by Bluerock affiliates, and may not always be able to devote sufficient time to the management of our business. Consequently, we may not receive the level of support and assistance that we otherwise might receive if we were internally managed.
In addition, we offer no assurance that our Manager will remain our manager or that we will continue to have access to our Manager’s principals and professionals. The initial term of our Management Agreement with our Manager extends until [ ], 2023 (the first anniversary of the Distribution Date), with automatic one-year renewals thereafter, and may be terminated earlier under certain circumstances. If the Management Agreement is terminated or not renewed and no suitable replacement is found to manage us, we may not be able to execute our business plan, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and our ability to make distributions to our stockholders.
Our Manager may not be successful in identifying and consummating suitable investment opportunities.
Our investment strategy will require us, through our Manager, to identify suitable investment opportunities compatible with our investment criteria. Our Manager may not be successful in identifying suitable opportunities that meet our criteria or in consummating investments, including those identified as part of our investment pipeline, on satisfactory terms or at all. Our ability to make investments on favorable terms may be constrained by several factors including, but not limited to, competition from other investors with significant capital, including other publicly-traded REITs and institutional investment funds, which may significantly increase investment costs; and/or the inability to finance an investment on favorable terms or at all. The failure to identify or consummate investments on satisfactory terms, or at all, may impede our growth and negatively affect our cash available for distribution to our stockholders.
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The inability of our Manager to retain or obtain key personnel could delay or hinder implementation of our investment strategies, which could impair our ability to make distributions and could reduce the value of your investment.
Our Manager will be obligated to supply us with substantially all of our senior management team, including our chief executive officer, president, chief accounting officer and chief operating officer. Subject to investment, leverage and other guidelines or policies adopted by our board of directors, our Manager will have significant discretion regarding the implementation of our investment and operating policies and strategies. Accordingly, we believe that our success will depend significantly upon the experience, skill, resources, relationships and contacts of the senior officers and key personnel of our Manager and its affiliates. In particular, our success depends to a significant degree upon the contributions of Messrs. Kamfar, Ruddy, MacDonald, Babb, Vohs, DiFranco, Siptrott and Emala, all of whom are senior officers of our Manager. We will not have employment agreements with any of these key personnel and do not have key man life insurance on any of them. If any of Messrs. Kamfar, Ruddy, MacDonald, Babb, Vohs, DiFranco, Siptrott and Emala were to cease their affiliation with us or our Manager, our Manager may be unable to find suitable replacements, and our operating results could suffer. We believe that our future success will depend, in large part, upon our Manager’s ability to hire and retain highly skilled managerial, operational and marketing personnel. Competition for highly skilled personnel is intense, and our Manager may be unsuccessful in attracting and retaining such skilled personnel. If we lose or are unable to obtain the services of highly skilled personnel, our ability to implement our investment strategies could be delayed or hindered, and the value of your investment may decline.
Our Manager’s limited operating history makes it difficult for you to evaluate this investment.
Our Manager has limited operating history and may not be able to successfully operate our business or achieve our investment objectives. We may not be able to conduct our business as described in our plan of operation.
Non-renewal of the Management Agreement, even for poor performance, could be difficult and costly, including as a result of termination fees, and may cause us to be unable to execute our business plan.
Non-renewal of the Management Agreement without cause, even for poor performance, could be difficult and costly. We may decline to renew the Management Agreement without cause upon the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of our independent directors that (1) there has been unsatisfactory performance by our Manager that is materially detrimental to us or (2) the Base Management Fee and Incentive Fee (each as defined in “Our Manager and Management Agreement—Management Agreement”) payable to our Manager are not, taken as a whole, in accordance with then-current market rates charged by asset management companies rendering services similar to those rendered by our Manager, subject to our Manager’s right to prevent such non-renewal by accepting a reduction of the fees agreed to by at least two-thirds of our independent directors. In such a case of non-renewal, our Manager will be paid a termination fee equal to 3.00 times the sum of the Base Management Fee and Incentive Fee earned, in each case, by our Manager during the 12-month period immediately preceding such non-renewal, calculated as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal quarter before the date of non-renewal. These provisions may substantially restrict our ability to not to renew the Management Agreement and would cause us to incur substantial costs in connection with such a non-renewal. Furthermore, in the event that our Management Agreement is not renewed, and we are unable to identify a suitable replacement to manage us, our ability to execute our business plan could be adversely affected.
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Because we will be dependent upon our Manager and its affiliates to conduct our operations, any adverse changes in the financial health of our Manager or its affiliates or our relationship with them could hinder our operating performance and the return on your investment.
We will be dependent on our Manager and its affiliates to manage our operations and acquire and manage our portfolio of real estate assets. Under the direction of our board of directors, and subject to our investment guidelines, our Manager will make all decisions with respect to the management of our company. Our Manager will depend upon the fees and other compensation that it receives from us in connection with managing our company to conduct its operations. Any adverse changes in the financial condition of our Manager or its affiliates, or our relationship with our Manager, could hinder its ability to successfully manage our operations and our portfolio of investments, which would adversely affect us and our stockholders.
Our board of directors will approve very broad investment guidelines for our Manager and will not approve each investment and financing decision made by our Manager unless required by our investment guidelines.
Our Manager will be authorized to follow very broad investment guidelines established by our board of directors. Our board of directors will periodically review our investment guidelines and our portfolio of assets but will not, and will not be required to, review all of our proposed investments, except in limited circumstances as set forth in our investment policies, which are described under “Business and Properties.” In addition, in conducting periodic reviews, our board of directors may rely primarily on information provided to them by our Manager. Furthermore, transactions entered into by our Manager may be costly, difficult or impossible to unwind by the time they are reviewed by our board of directors. Our Manager will have great latitude within the broad parameters of our investment guidelines in determining the types and amounts of assets in which to invest on our behalf, including making investments that may result in returns that are substantially below expectations or result in losses, which would materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations, or may otherwise not be in the best interests of our stockholders.
The Management Agreement with our Manager was not negotiated on an arm’s-length basis and may not be as favorable to us as if it had been negotiated with an unaffiliated third party.
Our executive officers, including one of our five directors, are executives of our Manager. Although the Bluerock Residential board of directors received an opinion from Robert A. Stanger & Company, Inc. that the terms of the Management Agreement are fair, from a financial point of view, to Bluerock Homes, and after consideration of this opinion and other documents and presentations, the non-management directors authorized Bluerock Homes to enter into the Management Agreement, our Management Agreement will be negotiated between related parties and its terms, including fees payable to our Manager, may not be as favorable to us as if it had been negotiated with an unaffiliated third party. In addition, we may choose not to enforce, or to enforce less vigorously, our rights under the Management Agreement because of our desire to maintain our ongoing relationship with Bluerock and its affiliates.
We may have conflicts of interest with our Manager and other affiliates, which could result in investment decisions that are not in the best interests of our stockholders.
There will be numerous conflicts of interest between our interests and the interests of our Manager, Bluerock and their respective affiliates, including conflicts arising out of allocation of personnel to our activities, allocation of investment opportunities between us and investment vehicles affiliated with Bluerock, purchase or sale of apartment properties, including from or to Bluerock or its affiliates and fee arrangements with our Manager that might induce our Manager to make investment decisions that are not in our best interests. Examples of these potential conflicts of interest include:
| · | Competition for the time and services of personnel that work for us and our affiliates; |
| · | Compensation payable by us to our Manager and its affiliates for their various services, which may not be on market terms and is payable, in some cases, whether or not our stockholders receive distributions; |
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| · | The possibility that our Manager, its officers and their respective affiliates will face conflicts of interest relating to the purchase and leasing of properties and that such conflicts may not be resolved in our favor, thus potentially limiting our investment opportunities, impairing our ability to make distributions and adversely affecting the trading price of our stock; |
| · | The possibility that if we acquire properties from Bluerock or its affiliates, the price may be higher than we would pay if the transaction were the result of arm’s-length negotiations with a third party; |
| · | The possibility that our Manager will face conflicts of interest caused by its indirect ownership by Bluerock, some of whose officers are also our officers and one of whom is a director of ours, resulting in actions that may not be in the long-term best interests of our stockholders; |
| · | Our Manager will have considerable discretion with respect to the terms and timing of our acquisition, disposition and leasing transactions, and the Incentive Fee payable by us to our Manager will be determined based on AFFO (as defined in “Our Manager and Management Agreement—Management Agreement”), which may create an incentive for our Manager to make investments that are risky or more speculative than would otherwise be in our best interests; |
| · | The possibility that we may acquire or merge with our Manager, resulting in an internalization of our management functions; and |
| · | The possibility that the competing demands for the time of our Manager, its affiliates and our officers may result in them spending insufficient time on our business, which may result in our missing investment opportunities or having less efficient operations, which could reduce our profitability and result in lower distributions to you. |
The Incentive Fee we pay our Manager may induce it to make riskier investments, which could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and the trading price of our stock.
The Incentive Fee payable by us to our Manager will be determined based on AFFO, which may create an incentive for our Manager to make investments that are risky or more speculative than would otherwise be in our best interests. In evaluating investments and other management strategies, the incentive fee structure may lead our Manager to place undue emphasis on the maximization of AFFO at the expense of other criteria, such as preservation of capital, in order to increase the Incentive Fee. Investments with higher yields generally have higher risk of loss than investments with lower yields, and could result in higher investment losses, particularly during cyclical economic downturns, which could adversely affect the trading price of our stock.
We may be obligated to pay our Manager quarterly Incentive Fees even if we incur a net loss during a particular quarter and our Manager will receive a Base Management Fee regardless of the performance of our portfolio.
Our Manager will be entitled to a quarterly Incentive Fee based on our pre-Incentive Fee AFFO, which will reward our Manager if our quarterly AFFO exceeds an 8% hurdle on our adjusted stockholders’ equity. Our AFFO for a particular quarter will exclude the effect of any unrealized gains, losses or other items during that quarter that do not affect realized net income, even if these adjustments result in a net loss on our statement of operations for that quarter. Thus, we may be required to pay our Manager an Incentive Fee for a fiscal quarter even if we incur a net loss for that quarter as determined in accordance with GAAP. In addition, our Manager will be entitled to receive a Base Management Fee based on a percentage of stockholders’ equity, regardless of our performance or its performance in managing our business. Our Manager will also receive reimbursement of expenses and fees incurred directly on our behalf regardless of its or our performance. As a result, even if our Manager does not identify profitable investment opportunities for us, it will still receive material compensation from us. This compensation structure may reduce our Manager’s incentive to devote time and effort to seeking profitable opportunities for our portfolio.
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If we acquire properties from affiliates of our Manager, the price may be higher than we would pay if the transaction were the result of arm’s-length negotiations.
We may acquire properties or investments from Bluerock, our Manager, directors or officers, or their respective affiliates. The prices we pay for such properties will not be the subject of arm’s-length negotiations, which means that the acquisitions may be on terms less favorable to us than those negotiated in an arm’s-length transaction. Even though we expect to use an independent third-party appraiser to determine fair market value when acquiring properties from our Manager and its affiliates, we may pay more for particular properties than we would have in an arm’s-length transaction, which would reduce our cash available for investment in other properties or distribution to our stockholders.
If we internalize our management functions, we could incur other significant costs associated with being self-managed.
At any time, our board of directors may, but is not obligated to, pursue the internalization of the functions performed for us by our Manager through the acquisition of our Manager or similar transaction through which we would bring onboard our Manager’s management team. The method by which we could internalize these functions could take many forms, and may require agreement with the Manager. While we believe that there may be substantial benefits to internalization of management functions at the appropriate time, there is no assurance that internalization will be beneficial to us and our stockholders, and internalizing our management functions could reduce earnings per share and funds from operation per share. For example, we may not realize the perceived benefits or we may not be able to properly integrate a new staff of managers and employees or we may not be able to effectively replicate the services provided previously by our Manager or its affiliates. Internalization transactions involving the internalization of managers affiliated with entity sponsors have also, in some cases, been the subject of litigation. Even if these claims are without merit, we could be forced to spend significant amounts of money defending claims which would reduce the amount of funds available for us to invest in properties or other investments to pay distributions. All these factors could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and ability to pay distributions.
Risks Related to the Separation and the Distribution
We have no operating history as an independent company, and our historical and pro forma financial information is not necessarily representative of the results that we would have achieved as a separate, publicly traded company and may not be a reliable indicator of our future results.
Our historical and pro forma financial information included in this information statement is derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of Bluerock Residential. Accordingly, the historical and pro forma financial information included in this information statement does not necessarily reflect the financial condition, results of operations or cash flows that we would have achieved as a separate, publicly traded company during the periods presented, or those that we will achieve in the future. Factors which could cause our results to materially differ from those reflected in such historical and pro forma financial information and which may materially and adversely impact our ability to achieve similar results in the future may include, but are not limited to, the following:
| · | the financial results in this information statement do not reflect all the expenses we will incur as a public company; |
| · | prior to the Separation and the Distribution, portions of our business have been operated by Bluerock Residential and as part of its corporate organization. We will need to make investments to replicate or outsource from other providers certain facilities, systems, infrastructure and personnel to which we will no longer have access after the Distribution, which will be costly; |
| · | after the Distribution, we will be unable to use Bluerock Residential’s economies of scope and scale in procuring various services and in maintaining vendor and tenant relationships. Likewise it may be more difficult for us to attract and retain desired tenants. This could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations following the completion of the Distribution; |
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| · | prior to the Separation and the Distribution, the working capital requirements and capital for general corporate purposes, including acquisitions, development, and capital expenditures, relative to the assets we will acquire in the Separation were satisfied as part of the corporation-wide cash management policies of Bluerock Residential. Following the Distribution, we may need to obtain additional financing from banks, through public offerings or private placements of debt or equity securities, strategic relationships or other arrangements, which may not be on terms as favorable as those obtained by Bluerock Residential, and the cost of capital for our business may be higher than Bluerock Residential’s cost of capital prior to the Separation and the Distribution, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations; and |
| · | our cost structure, management, financing and business operations will be significantly different from that of Bluerock Residential as a result of our operating as an independent public company. These changes will result in increased costs on a comparable basis focused on assets under management, including, but not limited to, legal, accounting, compliance and other costs associated with being a public company with equity securities traded on the NYSE American. |
Other significant changes may occur in our cost structure, management, financing and business operations as a result of our status as an independent company. For additional information about the past financial performance of our business assets and the basis of presentation of the historical combined financial statements and the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements of our business, please see “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the historical financial statements and accompanying notes included elsewhere in this information statement.
Bluerock Residential may fail to perform under various transaction agreements that will be executed as part of the separation, or we may fail to have necessary systems and services in place when certain of the transaction agreements expire.
In connection with the Separation and prior to the Distribution, Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes will enter into the Separation and Distribution Agreement and will also enter into various other agreements, including the Tax Matters Agreement. The Separation and Distribution Agreement and the Tax Matters Agreement, together with the documents and agreements by which the internal reorganization will be effected, will determine the allocation of assets and liabilities between the companies following the Separation for those respective areas and will include any necessary indemnifications related to liabilities and obligations. Bluerock Homes will rely on Bluerock Residential to satisfy its performance and payment obligations under these agreements. If Bluerock Residential is unable or unwilling to satisfy its obligations under these agreements, including its indemnification obligations, we could incur operational difficulties and/or losses. If we do not have in place our own systems and services, or if we do not have agreements with other providers of these services once certain transaction agreements expire, we may not be able to operate our business effectively, and our profitability may decline. We are in the process of creating our own, or engaging third parties to provide, systems and services to replace many of the systems and services that Bluerock Residential currently provides to us. However, we may not be successful in implementing these systems and services in a timely manner or at all, we may incur additional costs in connection with, or following, the implementation of these systems and services, and we may not be successful in transitioning data from Bluerock Residential’s systems to ours.
The distribution of Bluerock Homes shares in the Distribution will not qualify for tax-deferred treatment and will be treated as a taxable transaction to Bluerock Residential common stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
The Distribution will not qualify for tax-deferred treatment for U.S. federal income tax purposes. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Distribution, taken together with the receipt of cash pursuant to the Merger, is expected to be treated as a distribution in complete liquidation of Bluerock Residential and a fully taxable transaction. In general, a holder of Bluerock Residential common stock will recognize capital gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference, if any, between (1) the sum of (A) the amount of cash received with respect to such holder’s Bluerock Residential shares in the Merger plus (B) the fair market value, determined when the Distribution occurs, of the Bluerock Homes shares received in the Distribution, and (2) such holder’s adjusted tax basis in its Bluerock Residential shares. However, under certain circumstances, withholding may be required with respect to the Distribution (and the cash consideration payable in the Merger) under applicable tax laws, including in the case of distributions made to certain non-U.S. holders under FIRPTA. Any such withholding would be satisfied by the applicable withholding agent withholding and selling a portion of the Bluerock Homes shares that otherwise would be distributable to the non-U.S. holder, by withholding from the cash consideration payable in the Merger to the non-U.S. holder, or by withholding from other property held in the non-U.S. holder’s account with the withholding agent.
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There can be no assurance that the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) will agree with the treatment of the Distribution and Merger discussed above. If the IRS were to successfully challenge this treatment, it is possible that the Distribution would instead be treated as a taxable distribution separate from the deemed liquidation of Bluerock Residential pursuant to the Merger. In such case, an amount equal to the fair market value of Bluerock Homes common stock received by a Bluerock Residential stockholder will generally be treated as a taxable dividend to the extent of such Bluerock Residential stockholder’s ratable share of any current or accumulated earnings and profits of Bluerock Residential (including any earnings and profits attributable to gain recognized by Bluerock Residential in connection with the Separation, Distribution and the Merger), with the excess treated as a nontaxable return of capital to the extent of such Bluerock Residential stockholder’s tax basis in its shares of Bluerock Residential common stock and any remaining excess treated as capital gain. In addition, Bluerock Residential or other applicable withholding agents may be required or permitted to withhold at the applicable rate at all or a portion of the Distribution payable to non-U.S. holders.
Although Bluerock Residential will be ascribing a value to the Bluerock Homes shares in the Distribution for tax purposes, this valuation is not binding on the IRS or any other taxing authority. These taxing authorities could ascribe a higher valuation to those shares, particularly if Bluerock Homes shares trade at prices significantly above the value ascribed to those shares by Bluerock Residential in the period following the Distribution. Such a higher valuation may cause such stockholders to recognize additional taxable income. Holders should consult their tax advisors as to the particular tax consequences of the Distribution to them, including the applicability and effect of any U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax laws.
Potential indemnification obligations owed to Bluerock Residential pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide for, among other things, the principal corporate transactions required to effect the Separation and the Distribution, certain conditions to the Separation and the Distribution and provisions governing our relationship with Bluerock Residential with respect to and following the Distribution. Among other things, the Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide for indemnification obligations designed to make us financially responsible for substantially all liabilities that may exist related to our business activities. If we are required to indemnify Bluerock Residential under the circumstances set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, we may be subject to substantial liabilities, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Bluerock Residential may not be able to transfer its interests in certain properties in the Separation pursuant to certain agreements, due to the need to obtain the consent of third parties.
Certain covenants and other restrictions contained in debt agreements secured by certain of the legacy Bluerock Residential properties, may require Bluerock Residential to obtain lender consent in order for such properties to be transferred to us in the Separation. There is no assurance that Bluerock Residential will be able to obtain such consents on terms that it determines to be reasonable, or at all. Failure to obtain such consents could require Bluerock Residential to retain properties subject to these consents, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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We may not achieve some or all of the expected benefits of the Separation and the Distribution, and the Separation and the Distribution may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We may not be able to achieve the full strategic and financial benefits expected to result from the Separation and the Distribution, or such benefits may be delayed due to a variety of circumstances, not all of which may be under our control. We may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the Separation and the Distribution for a variety of reasons, including, among others: (i) diversion of management’s attention from operating and growing our business; (ii) disruption of our ongoing business or inconsistencies in our services, standards, controls, procedures and policies, which could materially and adversely affect our ability to maintain relationships with tenants; (iii) increased susceptibility to market fluctuations and other adverse events following the Separation and the Distribution; and (iv) lack of diversification in our business, compared to Bluerock Residential’s businesses prior to the Separation and the Distribution. Failure to achieve some or all of the benefits expected to result from the Separation and the Distribution, or a delay in realizing such benefits, may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our agreements with Bluerock Residential in connection with the Separation and the Distribution involve conflicts of interest, and we might have received better terms from unaffiliated third parties than the terms we will receive in these agreements.
Because the Separation and the Distribution involve the combination and division of certain of Bluerock Residential’s existing businesses into an independent company, we expect to enter into certain agreements with Bluerock Residential to provide a framework for our relationship with Bluerock Residential following the Separation and the Distribution, including the Separation and Distribution Agreement and the Tax Matters Agreement. The terms of these agreements will be determined while portions of our business are still owned by Bluerock Residential and will be negotiated by persons who are at the time employees, officers or directors of Bluerock Residential or their subsidiaries and, accordingly, may have conflicts of interest. For example, during the period in which the terms of those agreements will be negotiated, we will not have a board of directors that will be independent of Bluerock Residential. In addition, certain of the terms in these agreements were provided for in, and were the result of negotiations between Bluerock Residential and Badger Parent in connection with, the Merger Agreement. As a result of these factors, the terms of those agreements may not reflect terms that would have resulted from arm’s-length negotiations between unaffiliated third parties, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
No vote of the Bluerock Residential stockholders is required in connection with the Separation or the Distribution, so stockholder recourse is limited to divestiture.
No vote of the Bluerock Residential stockholders is required in connection with the Separation and the Distribution. Accordingly, if the Distribution occurs and you do not want to receive Bluerock Homes common stock in the Distribution, your only recourse will be to divest your shares of Bluerock Residential common stock prior to the record date for the Distribution.
Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, Bluerock Residential will indemnify us for certain pre-Distribution liabilities and liabilities related to the legacy Bluerock Residential assets. However, there can be no assurance that these indemnities will be sufficient to insure us against the full amount of such liabilities, or that Bluerock Residential’s ability to satisfy its indemnification obligation will not be impaired in the future.
Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, Bluerock Residential will indemnify us for certain liabilities. However, third parties could seek to hold us responsible for any of the liabilities that Bluerock Residential retains, and there can be no assurance that Bluerock Residential will be able to fully satisfy its indemnification obligations to us. Moreover, even if we ultimately succeed in recovering from Bluerock Residential any amounts for which we were held liable by such third parties, any indemnification received may be insufficient to fully offset the financial impact of such liabilities, or we may be temporarily required to bear these losses while seeking recovery from Bluerock Residential, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Substantial sales of our common stock may occur in connection with the Distribution, which could cause our share price to decline.
The common stock that Bluerock Residential intends to distribute to its stockholders generally may be sold immediately in the public market. Upon completion of the Distribution, we expect that we will have an aggregate of approximately [ ] million shares of common stock issued and outstanding, based on the number of issued and outstanding shares of Bluerock Residential common stock as of the record date. Shares of Bluerock Homes common stock following the Distribution will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), unless the shares are owned by one of our “affiliates,” as that term is defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act.
Although we have no actual knowledge of any plan or intention on the part of any of our 5%-or-greater stockholders to sell their shares of Bluerock Homes common stock following the Distribution, it is possible that some of our large stockholders will sell our common stock that they receive in the Distribution. For example, our stockholders may sell our common stock because our concentration in single-family residential properties, our business profile or our market capitalization as an independent company does not fit their investment objectives, or because shares of our common stock are not included in certain indices after the Distribution. A portion of Bluerock Residential common stock is held by index funds, and if we are not included in these indices at the time of the Distribution, these index funds may be required to sell our shares. The sales of significant amounts of our common stock, or the perception in the market that this may occur, may result in the lowering of the market price of our shares, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
No market currently exists for the Bluerock Homes common stock, and we cannot be certain that an active trading market for our common stock will develop or be sustained after the Distribution. The price of our common stock may be volatile or may decline.
A public market for our common stock does not currently exist. We anticipate that beginning on or shortly before the record date, trading of our common stock will begin on a “when-issued” basis and will continue through the Distribution Date. However, we cannot guarantee that an active trading market will develop or be sustained for our common stock after the Distribution. Nor can we predict the prices at which our common stock may trade after the Distribution. The market price of our common stock may fluctuate widely as a result of a number of factors, many of which are outside of our control. In addition, the stock market is subject to fluctuations in share prices and trading volumes that affect the market prices of the shares of many companies. These fluctuations in the stock market may materially and adversely affect the market price of our common stock. Among the factors that could affect the market price of our common stock are:
| · | actual or anticipated quarterly fluctuations in our business, financial condition and operating results; | |
| · | changes in revenues or earnings estimates or publication of research reports and recommendations by financial analysts or actions taken by rating agencies with respect to our securities or those of other REITs; | |
| · | the ability of our tenants to pay rent to us and meet their other obligations to us under current lease terms; | |
| · | our ability to re-lease spaces as leases expire; | |
| · | our ability to refinance our indebtedness as it matures; | |
| · | any changes in our dividend policy; | |
| · | any future issuances of equity securities; | |
| · | strategic actions by us or our competitors, such as acquisitions or restructurings; | |
| · | general market conditions and, in particular, developments related to market conditions for the real estate industry; and | |
| · | domestic and international economic factors unrelated to our performance. |
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We cannot predict the prices at which our common stock may trade before the Distribution on a “when-issued” basis or after the Distribution. Until the market has fully evaluated our business as a stand-alone entity, the prices at which shares of our common stock trade may fluctuate more significantly than might otherwise be typical, even with other market conditions, including general volatility, held constant. The increased volatility of our stock price following the Distribution may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Our Status as a REIT
Failure to qualify as a REIT would materially and adversely affect us and the value of our common shares.
We intend to elect to be taxed as a REIT beginning with our initial taxable year ending December 31, 2022. We believe that, commencing with such taxable year we will be organized and operate in a manner as to qualify for taxation as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes. We have not requested and do not plan to request a ruling from the IRS that we qualify as a REIT, and the statements in this information statement are not binding on the IRS or any court. Therefore, we cannot guarantee that we will qualify as a REIT or that we will remain qualified as such in the future.
As a condition to the Distribution, we expect to receive an opinion from Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. to the effect that, beginning with our short taxable year ending December 31, 2022, we will be organized in conformity with the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws, and our intended method of operation will enable us to qualify as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws for our taxable year ending December 31, 2022 and thereafter. Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.’s opinion will be based upon customary assumptions, representations and undertakings made by us and Bluerock Residential as to factual matters, is conditioned upon certain representations made by us as to factual matters, including representations regarding the nature of our and Bluerock Residential’s assets and the conduct of our and Bluerock Residential’s business. Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.’s opinion will not be binding upon the IRS or any court, and will speak as of the date issued. In addition, Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.’s opinion will be based on existing U.S. federal income tax law governing qualification as a REIT, which is subject to change either prospectively or retroactively.
Moreover, our qualification and taxation as a REIT will depend upon our ability to meet on a continuing basis, through actual results, certain qualification tests set forth in the U.S. federal tax laws. Those qualification tests involve the percentage of income that we earn from specified sources, the percentage of our assets that falls within specified categories, the diversity of our capital stock ownership and the percentage of our earnings that we distribute. Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. will not review our compliance with those tests on a continuing basis. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that our actual results of operations for any particular taxable year will satisfy such requirements. Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.’s opinion will not foreclose the possibility that we may have to use one or more of the REIT savings provisions described below, which could require us to pay an excise or penalty tax (which could be material) in order for us to maintain our REIT qualification.
If we fail to qualify as a REIT or lose our REIT status, we will face significant tax consequences that would substantially reduce our cash available for distribution to our stockholders for each of the years involved because:
| · | we would not be allowed a deduction for dividends paid to stockholders in computing our taxable income and would be subject to regular U.S. federal corporate income tax; |
| · | we could be subject to increased state and local taxes; and |
| · | unless we are entitled to relief under applicable statutory provisions, we could not elect to be taxed as a REIT for four taxable years following the year during which we were disqualified. |
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Any such corporate tax liability could be substantial and would reduce our cash available for, among other things, our operations and distributions to stockholders. In addition, if we fail to qualify as a REIT, we will not be required to make distributions to our stockholders. As a result of all these factors, our failure to qualify as a REIT also could impair our ability to expand our business and raise capital, and could materially and adversely affect the trading price of our common shares.
Qualification as a REIT involves the application of highly technical and complex Code provisions for which there are only limited judicial and administrative interpretations. The determination of various factual matters and circumstances not entirely within our control may affect our ability to qualify as a REIT. In order to qualify as a REIT, we must satisfy a number of requirements, including requirements regarding the ownership of our common shares, requirements regarding the composition of our assets and requirements that certain percentages of our gross income in any year must be derived from qualifying sources, such as “rents from real property.” Also, we must make distributions to stockholders aggregating annually at least 90% of our REIT taxable income, determined without regard to the dividends paid deduction and excluding net capital gains. See “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences — Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations Regarding Bluerock Homes’ Taxation as a REIT— Taxation of Bluerock Homes.” In addition, legislation, new regulations, administrative interpretations or court decisions may materially and adversely affect our investors, our ability to qualify as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes or the desirability of an investment in a REIT relative to other investments.
Even if we qualify as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we may be subject to some federal, state and local income, property and excise taxes on our income or property and, in certain cases, a 100% penalty tax on net income from any “prohibited transaction.” In addition, any taxable REIT subsidiaries (each a “TRS”) of ours will be subject to income tax as regular corporations in the jurisdictions in which they operate.
In certain circumstances, we may be subject to certain U.S. federal, state and local taxes despite our qualification as a REIT, which would reduce our cash available for distribution to you.
Even if we qualify and maintain our qualification as a REIT, we may be subject to certain U.S. federal, state and local taxes on our income and assets. For example, net income from any “prohibited transaction” will be subject to a 100% tax. Any TRSs will be subject to U.S. federal income tax, and applicable state and local taxes, as regular corporations. We may not be able to make sufficient distributions to avoid excise taxes applicable to REITs. We may also decide to retain income we earn from the sale or other disposition of our properties and pay income tax directly on such income. In that event, our stockholders would be treated as if they had earned that income and paid the tax on it directly, would be eligible to receive a credit or refund of the taxes deemed paid on the income deemed earned, and would increase the adjusted basis of their shares by the excess of such deemed income over the amount of taxes deemed paid. However, stockholders that are tax-exempt, such as charities or qualified pension plans, would have no benefit from their deemed payment of such tax liability. We may also be subject to state and local taxes on our income or property, either directly or at the level of the subsidiaries through which we indirectly own our assets. Any U.S. federal or state taxes we pay will reduce our cash available for distribution to you.
If Bluerock Residential failed to qualify as a REIT during certain periods prior to the Distribution, we would be prevented from electing to qualify as a REIT.
We believe that from the time of our formation until the date of the Distribution, we will be treated as a “qualified REIT subsidiary” of Bluerock Residential. Under applicable Treasury Regulations, if Bluerock Residential failed, or fails, to qualify as a REIT during certain periods prior to the Distribution, unless Bluerock Residential’s failure were subject to relief under U.S. federal income tax laws, we would be prevented from electing to qualify as a REIT prior to the fifth calendar year following the year in which Bluerock Residential failed to so qualify.
If certain of our subsidiaries, including our Operating Partnership, fail to qualify as partnerships or disregarded entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we would cease to qualify as a REIT and suffer other material adverse consequences.
We intend that our Operating Partnership will be treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and that our other subsidiaries (other than any TRSs) will each be treated as a partnership or disregarded entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes and, therefore, will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on its income. Instead, each of its partners or its member, as applicable, which may include us, will be allocated, and may be required to pay tax with respect to, such partner’s or member’s share of its income. We cannot assure you that the IRS will not challenge the status of any subsidiary partnership or limited liability company in which we own an interest as a disregarded entity or partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or that a court would not sustain such a challenge. If the IRS were successful in treating any subsidiary partnership or limited liability company as an entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we could fail to meet the gross income tests and certain of the asset tests applicable to REITs and, accordingly, we would likely cease to qualify as a REIT. Also, the failure of any subsidiary partnerships or limited liability company to qualify as a disregarded entity or partnership for applicable income tax purposes could cause it to become subject to federal and state corporate income tax, which would reduce significantly the amount of cash available for debt service and for distribution to its partners or members, including us.
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Distribution requirements imposed by law limit our flexibility.
To qualify and maintain our status as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we generally will be required to distribute to our stockholders at least 90% of our REIT taxable income, determined without regard to the dividends paid deduction and excluding net capital gains, each year. We also will be subject to tax at regular corporate income tax rates to the extent that we distribute less than 100% of our taxable income (including net capital gains) each year.
In addition, we will be subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax to the extent that we fail to distribute during any calendar year at least the sum of 85% of our ordinary income for that calendar year, 95% of our capital gain net income for the calendar year, and any amount of that income that was not distributed in prior years.
We intend to make distributions to our stockholders to comply with the distribution requirements of the Code as well as to reduce our exposure to federal income taxes and the nondeductible excise tax. Differences in timing between the receipt of income and the payment of expenses to arrive at taxable income, along with the effect of required debt amortization payments, could require us to borrow funds to meet the distribution requirements that are necessary to achieve the tax benefits associated with qualifying as a REIT.
We may pay dividends on our common stock in common stock and/or cash. Our stockholders may sell shares of our common stock to pay tax on such dividends, placing downward pressure on the market price of our common stock.
In order to satisfy our REIT distribution requirements, we are permitted, subject to certain conditions and limitations, to make distributions that are in part payable in shares of our common stock. The IRS has issued Revenue Procedure 2017-45 authorizing elective cash/stock dividends to be made by “publicly offered REITs.” Pursuant to Revenue Procedure 2017-45, the IRS will treat the distribution of stock pursuant to an elective cash/stock dividend as a distribution of property under Section 301 of the Code (i.e., a dividend), as long as at least 20% of the total dividend is available in cash and certain other parameters detailed in the Revenue Procedure are satisfied. On November 30, 2021, the IRS issued Revenue Procedure 2021-53, which temporarily reduces (through June 30, 2022) the minimum amount of the distribution that must be available in cash to 10%.
If we make any taxable dividend payable in cash and common stock, taxable stockholders receiving such dividend will be required to include the full amount of the dividend as ordinary income to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, stockholders may be required to pay income tax with respect to such dividends in excess of the cash dividends received. If a stockholder sells shares of our stock that it receives as a dividend in order to pay this tax, the sales proceeds may be less than the amount included in income with respect to the dividend, depending on the market price of the stock at the time of the sale. Furthermore, with respect to certain non-U.S. holders, we may be required to withhold federal income tax with respect to such dividends, including in respect of all or a portion of such dividend that is payable in our stock. If, in any taxable dividend payable in cash and stock, a significant number of our stockholders determine to sell shares of our stock in order to pay taxes owed on dividends, it may be viewed as economically equivalent to a dividend reduction and put downward pressure on the market price of our stock.
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Distributions payable by REITs do not qualify for the reduced tax rates that apply to other corporate distributions.
The maximum U.S. federal income tax rate applicable to income from “qualified dividends” payable to U.S. stockholders that are individuals, trusts and estates is currently 20%, plus a 3.8% “Medicare tax” surcharge. Dividends payable by REITs, however, generally are not eligible for the reduced rates on qualified dividend income. However, for taxable years beginning before January 1, 2026, ordinary REIT dividends constitute “qualified business income,” and thus a 20% deduction is available to individual taxpayers with respect to such dividends, resulting in a 29.6% maximum U.S. federal income tax rate (plus the 3.8% surtax on net investment income, if applicable) for individual U.S. stockholders. However, to qualify for this deduction, the stockholder receiving such dividends must hold the dividend-paying REIT stock for at least 46 days (taking into account certain special holding period rules) of the 91-day period beginning 45 days before the stock becomes ex-dividend, and cannot be under an obligation to make related payments with respect to a position in substantially similar or related property. The more-favorable rates applicable to regular corporate distributions could cause investors who are individuals to perceive investments in REITs to be relatively less attractive than investments in the stocks of non-REIT corporations that pay distributions, which could adversely affect the value of our common stock. See “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences—Taxation of Taxable U.S. Stockholders.”
In certain circumstances, we may be subject to certain U.S. federal, state and local taxes despite our qualification as a REIT, which would reduce our cash available for distribution to you.
Even if we qualify and maintain our qualification as a REIT, we may be subject to certain U.S. federal, state and local taxes on our income and assets. For example, net income from any “prohibited transaction” will be subject to a 100% tax. We may not be able to make sufficient distributions to avoid excise taxes applicable to REITs. We may also decide to retain income we earn from the sale or other disposition of our properties and pay income tax directly on such income. In that event, our stockholders would be treated as if they had earned that income and paid the tax on it directly, would be eligible to receive a credit or refund of the taxes deemed paid on the income deemed earned, and would increase the adjusted basis of their shares by the excess of such deemed income over the amount of taxes deemed paid. However, stockholders that are tax-exempt, such as charities or qualified pension plans, would have no benefit from their deemed payment of such tax liability. We may also be subject to state and local taxes on our income or property, either directly or at the level of the subsidiaries through which we indirectly own our assets. Any U.S. federal or state taxes we pay will reduce our cash available for distribution to you.
We may enter into certain hedging transactions that may have a potential impact on our REIT status.
From time to time, we may enter into hedging transactions with respect to one or more of our assets or liabilities. Our hedging activities may include entering into interest rate and/or foreign currency swaps, caps, and floors, options to purchase these items, and futures and forward contracts. Income and gain from “hedging transactions” that we enter into to hedge indebtedness incurred or to be incurred to acquire or carry real estate assets, or to hedge existing hedging positions after any portion of the related debt or property is extinguished or disposed of, and that are clearly and timely identified as such will be excluded from both the numerator and the denominator for purposes of the gross income tests that apply to REITs. Moreover, any income from a transaction entered into primarily to manage risk of currency fluctuations with respect to any item of income that would be qualifying REIT income under the REIT gross income tests, and any gain from the unwinding of any such transaction, does not constitute gross income for purposes of the REIT gross income tests. To the extent that we do not properly identify such transactions as hedges or we hedge with other types of financial instruments, or hedge other types of indebtedness, the income from those transactions may not be treated as qualifying income for purposes of the REIT gross income tests, and might also give rise to an asset that does not qualify for purposes of the REIT asset tests.
Our ability to provide certain services to our tenants may be limited by the REIT rules or may have to be provided through a TRS.
As a REIT, we generally will not be able provide services to our tenants other than those that are customarily provided by landlords, nor will we be able to derive income from a third party that provides such services. If we forego providing such services to our tenants, we may be at a disadvantage to competitors that are not subject to the same restrictions. However, we can provide such non-customary services to tenants and share in the revenue from such services if we do so through a TRS, though income earned by such TRS will be subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax.
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Any ownership of a TRS will be subject to limitations, and our transactions with a TRS will cause us to be subject to a 100% penalty tax on certain income or deductions if those transactions are not conducted on arm’s-length terms.
Overall, no more than 20% of the value of a REIT’s assets may consist of stock or securities of one or more TRSs. A TRS will be subject to applicable U.S. federal, state and local corporate income tax on its taxable income, and its after-tax net income will be available for distribution to us but is not required to be distributed to us. In addition, the Code limits the deductibility of interest paid or accrued by a TRS to its parent REIT to assure that the TRS is subject to an appropriate level of corporate taxation and, in certain circumstances, other limitations on deductibility may apply. The Code also imposes a 100% excise tax on certain transactions between a TRS and its parent REIT that are not conducted on an arm’s-length basis. We will monitor the value of our respective investments in any TRS for the purpose of ensuring compliance with TRS ownership limitations and will structure our transactions with any TRS on terms that we believe are arm’s-length to avoid incurring the 100% excise tax described above. There can be no assurance, however, that we will be able to comply with the 20% limitation or to avoid application of the 100% excise tax.
The prohibited transactions tax may limit our ability to dispose of our properties.
A REIT’s net income from prohibited transactions is subject to a 100% tax. In general, prohibited transactions are sales or other dispositions of property, other than foreclosure property, held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business. We may be subject to the prohibited transaction tax equal to 100% of net gain upon a disposition of real property. Although a safe harbor to the characterization of the sale of real property by a REIT as a prohibited transaction is available, we cannot assure you that we can comply with the safe harbor or that we will avoid owning property that may be characterized as held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business. Consequently, we may choose not to engage in certain sales of our properties or may conduct such sales through a TRS, which would be subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax.
The ability of our board of directors to revoke our REIT qualification without stockholder approval may cause adverse consequences to our stockholders.
Our charter will provide that our board of directors may revoke or otherwise terminate our REIT election, without the approval of our stockholders, if it determines that it is no longer in our best interests to continue to qualify as a REIT. If we cease to qualify as a REIT, we would become subject to U.S. federal income tax on our taxable income and would no longer be required to distribute most of our taxable income to our stockholders, which may have adverse consequences on our total return to our stockholders.
Legislative or other actions affecting REITs could have a negative effect on us or our investors.
In recent years, numerous legislative, judicial and administrative changes have been made to the U.S. federal income tax laws applicable to investments in real estate and REITs. President Joe Biden has set forth several tax proposals that would, if enacted, make significant changes to U.S. tax laws (including provisions enacted pursuant to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act). Congress is considering, and could include, some or all of these proposals in connection with tax reform to be undertaken by the current administration. It is unclear whether these or similar changes will be enacted and, if enacted, how soon any such changes could take effect. In addition, there can be no assurance that any other future changes to the U.S. federal income tax laws or regulatory changes will not be proposed or enacted that could impact our business and financial results. The REIT rules are constantly under review by persons involved in the legislative process and by the IRS and the U.S. Treasury Department, which may result in revisions to regulations and interpretations in addition to statutory changes. If enacted, certain of such changes could have an adverse impact on our business and financial results. Stockholders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the effect of potential future changes to the U.S. federal income tax laws on an investment in Bluerock Homes common stock.
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Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common Stock
You may be restricted from acquiring or transferring certain amounts of our common stock.
The stock ownership restrictions of the Code for REITs and the 9.8% stock ownership limits in our charter may inhibit market activity in our capital stock and restrict our business combination opportunities.
In order to qualify as a REIT, five or fewer individuals, as defined in the Code to include specified private foundations, employee benefit plans and trusts, and charitable trusts, may not own, beneficially or constructively, more than 50% in value of our issued and outstanding stock at any time during the last half of a taxable year. Attribution rules in the Code determine if any individual or entity beneficially or constructively owns our capital stock under this requirement. Additionally, at least 100 persons must beneficially own our capital stock during at least 335 days of a taxable year. To help insure that we meet these tests, among other purposes, our charter will restrict the acquisition and ownership of shares of our capital stock.
Our charter, with certain exceptions, will authorize our directors to take such actions as are necessary and desirable to preserve our qualification as a REIT. Unless exempted, prospectively or retroactively, by our board of directors, our charter will prohibit any person from beneficially or constructively owning more than 9.8% in value of the aggregate of our outstanding shares of capital stock or 9.8% in value or number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, of the outstanding shares of our common stock. Our board of directors may not grant an exemption from these restrictions to any proposed transferee whose ownership in excess of such thresholds does not satisfy certain conditions designed to ensure that we will not fail to qualify as a REIT. These restrictions on transferability and ownership will not apply, however, if our board of directors determines that it is no longer in our best interest to continue to qualify as a REIT or that compliance is no longer required for REIT qualification.
A limit on the percentage of our capital stock and common stock a person may own may discourage a takeover or business combination, which could prevent our common stockholders from realizing a premium price for their common stock.
Our charter will restrict direct or indirect ownership by one person or entity to no more than 9.8%, in value, of the outstanding shares of all classes and series of our capital stock or 9.8% in value or by number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, of the outstanding shares of our common stock unless exempted (prospectively or retroactively) by our board of directors. This restriction may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of us, including an extraordinary transaction (such as a merger, tender offer or sale of all or substantially all of our assets) that might provide a premium price to our stockholders.
Maryland law may limit the ability of a third party to acquire control of us.
The Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”) provides protection for Maryland corporations against unsolicited takeovers by limiting, among other things, the duties of the directors in unsolicited takeover situations. The duties of directors of Maryland corporations do not require them to (a) accept, recommend or respond to any proposal by a person seeking to acquire control of the corporation, (b) authorize the corporation to redeem any rights under, or modify or render inapplicable, any stockholder rights plan, (c) make a determination under the Maryland Business Combination Act, or (d) act or fail to act solely because of the effect the act or failure to act may have on an acquisition or potential acquisition of control of the corporation or the amount or type of consideration that may be offered or paid to the stockholders in an acquisition. Moreover, under the MGCL, the act of a director of a Maryland corporation relating to or affecting an acquisition or potential acquisition of control is not subject to any higher duty or greater scrutiny than is applied to any other act of a director. The MGCL also contains a statutory presumption that an act of a director of a Maryland corporation satisfies the applicable standards of conduct for directors under the MGCL.
The MGCL also provides that, unless exempted, certain Maryland corporations may not engage in business combinations, including mergers, dispositions of 10% or more of its assets, certain issuances of shares of stock and other specified transactions, with an “interested stockholder” or an affiliate of an interested stockholder for five years after the most recent date on which the interested stockholder became an interested stockholder, and thereafter unless specified criteria are met. An interested stockholder is generally a person owning or controlling, directly or indirectly, 10% or more of the voting power of the outstanding stock of the Maryland corporation, unless the stock had been obtained in a transaction approved by its board of directors. These and other provisions of the MGCL could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a proxy contest, tender offer, merger or other change in control, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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Your rights as stockholders and our rights to recover claims against our officers and directors are limited.
Under Maryland law, our charter , our bylaws and the terms of certain indemnification agreements with our directors and employment or services agreements with our executive officers, we may generally indemnify our officers, our directors, and their respective affiliates to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law. Maryland law permits us to indemnify our present and former directors and officers, among others, against judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and reasonable expenses actually incurred by them in connection with any proceeding to which they may be made or threatened to be made a party by reason of their service in those or other capacities unless it is established that: (1) the act or omission of the director or officer was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty; (2) the director or officer actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services; or (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, the director or officer had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful. As a result, we and our stockholders may have more limited rights against our directors, officers, employees and agents, and their affiliates, than might otherwise exist under common law. In addition, we may be obligated to fund the defense costs incurred by our directors, officers, employees and agents in some cases.
An increase in market interest rates may have an adverse effect on the market price of our common stock.
One of the factors that investors may consider in deciding whether to buy or sell our common stock is our distribution yield, which is our distribution rate as a percentage of our share price, relative to market interest rates. If market interest rates increase, prospective investors may desire a higher distribution yield on our common stock or may seek securities paying higher dividends or interest. As a result, interest rate fluctuations and capital market conditions are likely to affect the market price of our common stock, and such effects could be significant. For example, if interest rates rise without an increase in our distribution rate, the market price of our common stock could decrease because potential investors may require a higher distribution yield on our common stock as market rates on interest-bearing securities, such as bonds, rise.
Your percentage of ownership may become diluted if we issue new shares of stock or other securities, and issuances of preferred stock or other securities by us may further subordinate the rights of the holders of our common stock.
Our board of directors will be authorized, without stockholder approval, to cause us to issue additional shares of our common stock or to raise capital through the issuance of preferred stock (including equity or debt securities convertible into preferred stock), options, warrants and other rights, on such terms and for such consideration as our board of directors in its sole discretion may determine. In addition, holders of warrants may exercise their warrants prior to the record date. Any such issuance or exercise could result in dilution of the equity of our stockholders. Our board of directors may, in its sole discretion, authorize us to issue common stock or other equity or debt securities to persons from whom we purchase apartment communities, as part or all of the purchase price of the community. Our board of directors, in its sole discretion, may determine the value of any common stock or other equity or debt securities issued in consideration of apartment communities or services provided, or to be provided, to us.
Our charter will also authorize our board of directors, without stockholder approval, to designate and issue one or more classes or series of preferred stock (including equity or debt securities convertible into preferred stock) and to set or change the voting, conversion or other rights, preferences, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or other distributions and qualifications or terms or conditions of redemption of each class or series of shares so issued. If any additional preferred stock is publicly offered, the terms and conditions of such preferred stock (including any equity or debt securities convertible into preferred stock) will be set forth in a registration statement registering the issuance of such preferred stock or equity or debt securities convertible into preferred stock. Because our board of directors has the power to establish the preferences and rights of each class or series of preferred stock, it may afford the holders of any series or class of preferred stock preferences, powers, and rights senior to the rights of holders of common stock. If we ever create and issue additional preferred stock or equity or debt securities convertible into preferred stock with a distribution preference over common stock, payment of any distribution preferences of such new outstanding preferred stock would reduce the amount of funds available for the payment of distributions on our common stock. Further, holders of preferred stock will be normally entitled to receive a preference payment if we liquidate, dissolve, or wind up before any payment is made to the common stockholders, likely reducing the amount common stockholders would otherwise receive upon such an occurrence. In addition, under certain circumstances, the issuance of additional preferred stock may delay, prevent, render more difficult or tend to discourage a merger, tender offer, or proxy contest, the assumption of control by a holder of a large block of our securities, or the removal of incumbent management.
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Stockholders will have no rights to buy additional shares of stock or other securities if we issue new shares of stock or other securities. We may issue common stock, convertible debt or preferred stock pursuant to a subsequent public offering or a private placement, or to sellers of properties we directly or indirectly acquire instead of, or in addition to, cash consideration. Investors purchasing shares of our common stock in an offering who do not participate in any future stock issuances will experience dilution in the percentage of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock they own. In addition, depending on the terms and pricing of any additional offerings and the value of our investments, you also may experience dilution in the book value and fair market value of, and the amount of distributions paid on, your shares of common stock.
Our ability to pay dividends is limited by the requirements of Maryland law.
Our ability to pay dividends on our common stock is limited by the laws of Maryland. Under applicable Maryland law, a Maryland corporation, including Bluerock Homes, generally may not make a distribution (including a dividend or redemption) if, after giving effect to the dividend, the corporation would not be able to pay its debts as the debts become due in the usual course of business, or the corporation’s total assets would be less than the sum of its total liabilities plus, unless the corporation’s charter provides otherwise, the amount that would be needed, if the corporation were dissolved at the time of the dividend, to satisfy the preferential rights upon dissolution of stockholders whose preferential rights are superior to those receiving the dividend. Accordingly, we generally may not make a distribution if, after giving effect to the distribution, we would not be able to pay our debts as they become due in the usual course of business or our total assets would be less than the sum of our total liabilities plus, unless our charter provides otherwise, the amount that would be needed to satisfy the preferential rights upon dissolution of stockholders whose preferential rights are superior to those receiving the dividend. Any dividends or redemption payments may be delayed or prohibited. As a result, the price of our common stock may decrease, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We may change our dividend policy.
Future dividends will be declared and paid at the discretion of our board of directors, and the amount and timing of dividends will depend upon cash generated by operating activities, our business, financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, annual distribution requirements under the REIT provisions of the Code, and such other factors as our board of directors deems relevant. Our board of directors may change our dividend policy at any time, and there can be no assurance as to the manner in which future dividends will be paid or that the current dividend level will be maintained in future periods. Any reduction in our dividends may cause investors to seek alternative investments, which would result in selling pressure on, and a decrease in the market price of, our common stock. As a result, the price of our common stock may decrease, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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We will incur increased costs as a result of operating as a public company. If we fail to maintain proper and effective internal controls, our ability to produce accurate and timely financial statements could be impaired, which could result in sanctions or other penalties that would harm our business.
Following the Distribution, we will be subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), and the rules and regulations of the New York Stock Exchange American (the “NYSE American”). Our financial results historically were included within the consolidated results of Bluerock Residential, and until the Distribution occurs, we have not been and will not be directly subject to reporting and other requirements of the Exchange Act and Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. After the Distribution, we will qualify as an “emerging growth company.” For so long as we remain an emerging growth company, we will be exempt from Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, which requires auditor attestation to the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. We will cease to be an emerging growth company on the date that is the earliest of (i) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have total gross annual revenues of $1.07 billion or more; (ii) the last day of our fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the date of the Distribution; (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in nonconvertible debt during the previous three years; or (iv) the date on which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the rules of the SEC. We cannot predict if investors will find our common stock less attractive because we may rely on the exemptions available to us as an emerging growth company. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock, and our stock price may be more volatile.
We will, however, be immediately subject to Section 404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and, as of the expiration of our emerging growth company status, we will be broadly subject to enhanced reporting and other requirements under the Exchange Act and Sarbanes-Oxley Act. This will require, among other things, annual management assessments of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting beginning in our second annual report filed after the Distribution and a report by our independent registered public accounting firm addressing these assessments. These and other obligations will place significant demands on our management, administrative and operational resources, including accounting and information technology resources. To comply with these requirements, we anticipate that we will need to further upgrade our systems, including duplicating computer hardware infrastructure, implement additional financial and management controls, reporting systems and procedures, and hire additional accounting, finance and information technology staff. Our management and other personnel will need to devote a substantial amount of time to these compliance initiatives. Moreover, these rules and regulations will increase our legal and financial compliance costs and will make some activities more time-consuming and costlier. If we are unable to do this in a timely and effective fashion, our ability to comply with our financial reporting requirements and other rules that apply to reporting companies could be impaired and our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations could be harmed.
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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of federal and state securities laws and may be identified by words such as “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “goal,” “future,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “target,” “estimate” and similar words or expressions, including the negative version of such words and expressions. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Company’s present expectations, estimates and projections about the industry and markets in which the Company operates and beliefs of and assumptions made by Company management, involve uncertainty that could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and are not guaranteed to occur. Furthermore, the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, of new information, data or methods, future events or other changes. Investors should not place undue reliance upon these forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, the Company’s actual results and performance could differ materially from those set forth in these forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. Factors that could have a material adverse effect on our operations, future prospects, and the Separation and the Distribution include, but are not limited to:
| · | the failure to satisfy any of the conditions to the completion of the Distribution; | |
| · | the risks that the market does not value Bluerock Homes shares at NAV; | |
| · | the failure to recognize the potential benefits of the Separation and the Distribution due to, among other reasons, Bluerock Homes’ lack of liquidity, small market size or inability to grow and expand revenues and earnings following the Distribution; | |
| · | shareholder litigation in connection with the Separation and the Distribution or the Merger, which may affect the timing or occurrence of the Separation, the Distribution or the Merger or result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; | |
| · | the effect of the announcement of the Separation and the Distribution and the Merger on the ability of the Company to retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with its tenants, vendors and others with whom it does business, or on its operating results and businesses generally; | |
| · | risks associated with the disruption of management’s attention from ongoing business operations due to Separation and the Distribution; | |
| · | the ability to meet expectations regarding the timing and completion of the Separation and the Distribution; | |
| · | the possibility that any opinions, consents or approvals required in connection with Separation and the Distribution will not be received or obtained in the expected time frame, on the expected terms or at all; | |
| · | significant transaction costs, fees, expenses and charges; | |
| · | risks associated with the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or the announcement or pendency of such transactions, including disruptions to operations and the potential distraction of management or employees; and | |
| · | Bluerock Residential’s obligation pursuant to the Merger Agreement to use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, including with respect to the timing of the Distribution and the requirement that Bluerock Residential obtain Badger Parent’s prior written consent to effect certain changes to the terms of the Separation or the Distribution, and the resulting limitations on Bluerock Residential’s ability to determine or alter the structure or timing of the internal restructuring, the Separation and the Distribution or the terms and conditions of the Separation and Distribution Agreement or Tax Matters Agreement. |
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There can be no assurance that the Separation or the Distribution or any other transaction described above will in fact be consummated in the expected time frame, on the expected terms or at all. There can be no assurance as to the impact of Covid-19 and other potential future outbreaks of infectious diseases on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and performance and those of its tenants as well as on the economy and real estate and financial markets, which may impact the timing or occurrence of the Separation or the Distribution. Other factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated include the matters described under “Risk Factors.” Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. The Company claims the safe harbor protection for forward looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
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THE SEPARATION AND THE DISTRIBUTION
Background
On December 20, 2021, Bluerock Residential, Badger Parent and Merger Sub entered into the Merger Agreement, pursuant to which, on the terms and conditions set forth therein, Bluerock Residential will merge with and into Merger Sub, with Merger Sub continuing as the surviving company in the Merger. Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution. In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement. Accordingly, the Merger will not be completed unless and until the Separation and the Distribution are completed.
The Distribution is expected to occur on [ ], subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions to the Distribution set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, by way of a special dividend to Bluerock Residential common stockholders. In the Distribution, holders of each share of Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Residential Class C common stock as of the record date will be entitled to receive [ ] share[s] of Bluerock Homes common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock, as applicable.
Bluerock Homes will not distribute fractional shares of its common stock in the Distribution. Instead, all fractional shares that Bluerock Residential stockholders would otherwise have been entitled to receive will be aggregated into whole shares and sold in the open market by CTC. We expect CTC, acting on behalf of Bluerock Residential, to take several weeks after the Distribution Date to fully distribute the aggregate net cash proceeds of these sales on a pro rata basis (based on the fractional share such holder would otherwise be entitled to receive) to those stockholders who would otherwise have been entitled to receive fractional shares. Recipients of cash in lieu of fractional shares will not be entitled to any interest on the amounts of payment made in lieu of fractional shares.
Bluerock Residential stockholders will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange their Bluerock Residential common stock, or take any other action to receive their shares of Bluerock Homes common stock in the Distribution. The Distribution of Bluerock Homes common stock as described in this information statement is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions, including consummation of the Separation in all material respects. For a more detailed description of these conditions, please refer to the section entitled “The Separation and Distribution Agreement — Conditions to the Distribution.”
Reasons for the Separation and the Distribution
The Bluerock Residential board of directors believes that the Separation and the Distribution are in the best interests of Bluerock Residential and its stockholders for a number of reasons, including the following:
| · | Create a focused company executing a distinct business strategy. Historically, Bluerock Residential has focused on both its multi-family residential real estate business, as well as its single-family residential real estate business. By separating the Bluerock Homes Business into a stand-alone REIT, our company will have a distinct business strategy focused on our Single-Family Properties. |
| · | Provide an opportunity for our experienced management team to implement and execute our growth strategy. Separating the Bluerock Homes Business from the remainder of Bluerock Residential’s business will allow our management team to focus on the Bluerock Homes Business, which will allow these assets to realize their full potential. |
| · | Enhance investor transparency and better highlight our attributes. The Separation and the Distribution will enable current and potential investors and the financial community to evaluate the Bluerock Homes Business independently of the multi-family residential real estate business and better assess the distinctive merits, performance and future prospects of the Bluerock Homes Business. The Separation and the Distribution will allow individual investors to better control their asset allocation decisions, providing investors the opportunity to invest in a well-capitalized REIT that is positioned to take advantage of the single-family housing sector. |
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The Bluerock Residential board of directors also considered a number of potentially negative factors in evaluating the Separation and the Distribution, including the following:
| · | Assumption of certain costs and liabilities. We will bear certain costs and liabilities previously borne by the combined business of Bluerock Residential prior to the Separation, such as the costs associated with being a public company. |
| · | One-time costs of the Separation. Each of Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes will incur costs in connection with our transition to being a separate, stand-alone public company, which may include accounting, tax, legal and other professional services costs and costs to separate information systems. |
| · | Inability to realize anticipated benefits of the Separation. We may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the Separation for a variety of reasons, including: | |
| (i) following the Separation, we may be more susceptible to market fluctuations and other adverse events than if we were still a part of Bluerock Residential; and (ii) following the Separation, Bluerock Homes’ business will be less diversified than Bluerock Residential’s business prior to the Separation. |
| · | Taxability of the Distribution. The Distribution is expected to be taxable to Bluerock Residential common stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. |
The Bluerock Residential board of directors concluded that the potential benefits of the Separation and the Distribution outweighed these factors. For more information, see “Risk Factors” beginning on page 23.
Ownership Structure
Structure and Formation of Bluerock Homes Prior to Bluerock Residential’s Distribution
We were formed on December 16, 2021, in Maryland as a wholly owned subsidiary of Bluerock Residential. Following the Distribution, we will operate as an externally managed, publicly traded UPREIT in which our properties will be owned and operated by Bluerock Residential Holdings and its subsidiaries. Prior to the Distribution and the Merger Effective Time, Bluerock Residential will complete the Separation to separate the Single-Family Properties and certain other assets such that these businesses and assets are owned and operated by Bluerock Residential Holdings and its subsidiaries.
Following the Separation, Bluerock Homes will be the sole general partner of Bluerock Residential Holdings and own approximately [ ]% of the limited partnership units in Bluerock Residential Holdings.
The following transactions, among others, are expected to occur in advance of the Distribution:
| · | Bluerock Residential will have taken all actions necessary to complete the Separation, including but not limited to the following steps: |
| · | Bluerock Residential Holdings will form the New LP. Bluerock Residential Holdings will contribute its interests in Bluerock Residential’s multi-family residential real estate business and certain other assets to the New LP; |
| · | Bluerock Residential Holdings will distribute the New LP to Bluerock Residential in exchange for a redemption of 25,210,092 of Bluerock Residential’s common units in Bluerock Residential Holdings and all of Bluerock Residential’s outstanding preferred interests. Duff & Phelps delivered an opinion on this consideration to the Bluerock Residential board of directors in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement. After consideration of this opinion and other documents and presentations, the non-management directors of the Bluerock Residential board of directors approved this exchange; and |
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| · | Bluerock Residential will then contribute its remaining interest in Bluerock Residential Holdings (including the general partnership interest) to Bluerock Homes. |
As a result of the Separation, we will own the Single Family Properties, subject to approximately $[ ] million of existing secured property-level indebtedness, based on principal balances as of [ ].
In addition to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, as of or prior to the Distribution, we and Bluerock Residential will enter into the Tax Matters Agreement.
Immediately following the Distribution, Bluerock Homes, Bluerock Residential Holdings and our Manager will enter into a management agreement (the “Management Agreement”), pursuant to which our Manager will provide certain services as more fully described in “Our Manager and Management Agreement.”
Our charter will provide for two classes of common stock, the Bluerock Homes common stock and the Bluerock Homes Class C common stock. It is expected that the shares of Bluerock Homes common stock will be distributed by Bluerock Residential on [ ] to holders of record of Bluerock Residential common stock at the close of business on the record date and shares of Bluerock Homes Class C common stock will be distributed by Bluerock Residential on [ ] to holders of record of Bluerock Residential Class C common stock, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions to the Distribution set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, as described above under “—Background.”
The Separation and Distribution Agreement
The following discussion summarizes the material provisions of the Separation and Distribution Agreement. The Separation and Distribution Agreement will set forth, among other things, our agreements with Bluerock Residential regarding the principal transactions necessary to separate us from Bluerock Residential. It also will set forth other agreements that govern certain aspects of our relationship with Bluerock Residential after the Distribution Date. The form of this agreement will be filed as an exhibit to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part.
Transfer of Assets and Assumption of Liabilities
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will identify the assets to be transferred, the liabilities to be assumed and the contracts to be transferred to each of Bluerock Homes and Bluerock Residential as part of the Separation, and will provide for when and how these transfers and assumptions will occur. In particular, the Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that, among other things, subject to the terms and conditions contained therein:
| · | certain assets primarily related to the Bluerock Homes Business (the “Bluerock Homes Assets”) will be retained by or transferred to Bluerock Homes or one of its subsidiaries; |
| · | certain liabilities to the extent related to the Bluerock Homes Business or the Bluerock Homes Assets (the “Bluerock Homes Liabilities”) will be retained by or transferred to Bluerock Homes; and |
| · | all assets and liabilities other than the Bluerock Homes Assets and the Bluerock Homes Liabilities (such assets and liabilities, other than the Bluerock Homes Assets and the Bluerock Homes Liabilities, the “Bluerock Residential Assets” and the “Bluerock Residential Liabilities,” respectively) will be retained by or transferred to Bluerock Residential. |
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Except as expressly set forth in Separation and Distribution Agreement or the Tax Matters Agreement, neither Bluerock Homes nor Bluerock Residential will make any representation or warranty as to the assets, business or liabilities transferred or assumed as part of the Separation, as to any consents or approvals required in connection with the transfers, as to the value of or the freedom from any security interests of any of the assets transferred, as to the absence or presence of any defenses or right of setoff or freedom from counterclaim with respect to any claim or other asset of any of Bluerock Homes or Bluerock Residential, or as to the legal sufficiency of any document or instrument delivered to convey title to any asset to be transferred in connection with the Separation. All assets will be transferred on an “as is,” “where is” basis, and the respective transferees will bear the economic and legal risks that any conveyance will prove to be insufficient to vest in the transferee good and marketable title, free and clear of all security interests, that any necessary consents or governmental approvals or notifications are not obtained or made, or that any requirements of laws or judgments are not complied with.
Information in this information statement with respect to the assets and liabilities of the parties following the Distribution is presented based on the allocation of such assets and liabilities pursuant to the Separation and the Distribution Agreement, unless the context otherwise requires. The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that in the event that the transfer of certain assets and liabilities (or a portion thereof) to Bluerock Homes or Bluerock Residential, as applicable, does not occur prior to the Separation, then until such assets or liabilities (or a portion thereof) are able to be transferred, Bluerock Homes or Bluerock Residential, as applicable, will hold such assets on behalf and for the benefit of the transferee and will pay, perform and discharge such liabilities, for which the transferee will reimburse Bluerock Homes or Bluerock Residential, as applicable, for all commercially reasonable payments made in connection with the performance and discharge of such liabilities.
The Distribution
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will govern the rights and obligations of the parties regarding the Distribution following the completion of the Separation. On the Distribution Date, Bluerock Residential will distribute to its common stockholders that held shares of Bluerock Residential common stock as of the record date all of the issued and outstanding shares of Bluerock Homes common stock on a pro rata basis. No holders of units or other interests of Bluerock Residential Holdings will be entitled to receive any form of compensation from us in connection with the Distribution, and instead will continue to hold their units or other interests of Bluerock Residential Holdings.
Conditions to the Distribution
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that the Distribution is subject to the satisfaction (or waiver by Bluerock Residential) of the following conditions:
| · | the consummation of the Separation in all material respects; |
| · | the SEC declaring effective the registration statement of which this information statement forms a part, with no stop order in effect with respect thereto, and no proceeding for such purpose pending before, or threatened by, the SEC; |
| · | this information statement having been made available to Bluerock Residential stockholders; |
| · | the receipt of the opinion of Vinson & Elkins L.L.P., to the effect that, beginning with our short taxable year ending December 31, 2022, we will be organized in conformity with the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws, and our intended method of operation will enable us to qualify as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws for our taxable year ending December 31, 2022 and thereafter; |
| · | the Bluerock Residential board of directors having received one or more opinions from one or more nationally recognized valuation or accounting firms or investment banks reasonably acceptable to Bluerock Residential and Badger Parent as to the solvency of Bluerock Homes after the completion of the Distribution, and such opinion(s) having not been withdrawn or rescinded; |
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| · | no order, injunction, or decree issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing the consummation of the Separation, the Distribution or any of the related transactions being in effect; |
| · | all necessary permits and authorizations under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act relating to the issuance and trading of shares of Bluerock Homes common stock having been obtained and being in effect; |
| · | the Bluerock Homes common stock to be distributed having been approved for listing on the NYSE American, subject to official notice of distribution; |
| · | all actions or filings necessary or appropriate under applicable U.S. federal, state or other securities or blue sky laws and the rules and regulations thereunder having been taken and, where applicable, having become effective or been accepted by the applicable governmental entity; |
| · | the execution of ancillary agreements by us and Bluerock Residential, including the Tax Matters Agreement; and |
| · | no other event or development existing or having occurred that, in the judgment of Bluerock Residential’s board of directors, in its sole and absolute discretion, makes it inadvisable to effect the Separation, the Distribution and the other related transactions (except that the consent of Badger Parent would be required for Bluerock Residential to rely on the condition described in this bullet as a basis for not completing the Distribution). |
Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes cannot assure you that any or all of these conditions will be met. Bluerock Residential can, subject to the rights of Badger Parent under the Merger Agreement, decline at any time to go forward with the Distribution. Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution. In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement. Accordingly, the Merger will not be completed unless and until the Separation and the Distribution are completed.
Releases
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that Bluerock Homes and its affiliates will release and discharge Bluerock Residential and its affiliates and certain other non-recourse parties from all Bluerock Homes Liabilities, all liabilities arising from or in connection with the activities to implement the Separation and the Distribution, and all liabilities arising from or in connection with all actions, inactions, events, omissions, conditions, facts or circumstances occurring or existing before the Distribution Date to the extent relating to, arising out of or resulting from the Bluerock Homes Business, the Bluerock Homes Assets or the Bluerock Homes Liabilities, in each case except as expressly set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement.
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that Bluerock Residential and its affiliates will release and discharge Bluerock Homes and its affiliates and certain other non-recourse parties from all Bluerock Residential Liabilities, all liabilities arising from or in connection with the activities to implement the Separation and the Distribution, and all liabilities arising from or in connection with all actions, inactions, events, omissions, conditions, facts or circumstances occurring or existing before the Distribution Date to the extent relating to, arising out of or resulting from the Bluerock Residential Business or the Bluerock Residential Liabilities, in each case except as expressly set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement.
These releases will not extend to obligations or liabilities under any agreements among the parties that remain in effect following the Distribution, which agreements include the Separation and Distribution Agreement and the Tax Matters Agreement or to any obligations or liabilities for the sale, lease, construction or receipt of goods, property or services in the ordinary course of business prior to the Distribution Date.
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Indemnification
In the Separation and Distribution Agreement, Bluerock Homes will agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless Bluerock Residential and its affiliates, and each of Bluerock Residential and its affiliates’ directors, officers and employees, from and against all liabilities relating to, arising out of or resulting from:
| · | the Bluerock Homes Liabilities; |
| · | Bluerock Homes’ failure or the failure of any other person to pay, perform or otherwise promptly discharge any of the Bluerock Homes Liabilities, in accordance with their respective terms, whether prior to, at or after the Distribution; |
| · | except to the extent relating to a Bluerock Residential Liability, any guarantee, indemnification or contribution obligation for the benefit of Bluerock Homes by Bluerock Residential that survives the Distribution; |
| · | any breach by Bluerock Homes of the Separation and Distribution Agreement or the Tax Matters Agreement; and |
| · | any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission of material fact with respect to all information contained in the Form 10, this information statement or certain other Bluerock Homes disclosure documents. |
Bluerock Residential will agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless Bluerock Homes and its affiliates and Bluerock Homes and its affiliates’ directors, officers and employees from and against all liabilities relating to, arising out of or resulting from:
| · | the Bluerock Residential Liabilities; |
| · | the failure of Bluerock Residential or any other person to pay, perform or otherwise promptly discharge any of the Bluerock Residential Liabilities in accordance with their respective terms whether prior to, at or after the Distribution; |
| · | except to the extent relating to a Bluerock Homes Liability, any guarantee, indemnification or contribution obligation for the benefit of Bluerock Residential by Bluerock Homes that survives the Distribution; |
| · | any breach by Bluerock Residential of the Separation and Distribution Agreement or the Tax Matters Agreement; and |
| · | any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission of material fact with respect to statements in any Bluerock Residential disclosure document. |
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will also establish procedures with respect to claims subject to indemnification and related matters.
Indemnification with respect to taxes, and the procedures related thereto, will be governed by the Tax Matters Agreement.
Insurance
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide for the allocation among the parties of rights and obligations under existing insurance policies. The Bluerock Homes’ and its subsidiaries’ occurrence-based policies will be allocated to Bluerock Homes (and its subsidiaries). Bluerock Residential (and its subsidiaries) will be entitled (at its cost) to make occurrence-based claims in respect of losses incurred prior to the Distribution under the Bluerock Homes’ and its subsidiaries’ occurrence-based policies in effect as of the Distribution to the extent such policies provided coverage for Bluerock Residential (or any of its subsidiaries) prior to the Distribution. Bluerock Homes’ and its subsidiaries’ property-level insurance policies will be allocated to Bluerock Homes to the extent they provided coverage for Bluerock Homes Assets. Bluerock Residential will provide customary indemnity and cost reimbursement to Bluerock Homes to the extent resulting from access by Bluerock Residential to such insurance policies post-Distribution (including bearing all deductibles, retentions, coinsurance, fees, retroactive and/or future premium increase) and may not make any claim to the extent it would adversely affect Bluerock Homes’ relationship with any such insurer. Each party will control its relationship with its own insurers post-Distribution.
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Employee Liabilities
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that, subject to certain exceptions, Bluerock Homes will assume all assets and liabilities relating to current and former service providers of Bluerock Residential and its subsidiaries and employee benefit plans and agreements.
Further Assurances
In addition to the actions specifically provided for in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, except as otherwise set forth therein or in the Tax Matters Agreement, Bluerock Homes and Bluerock Residential will agree in the Separation and Distribution Agreement to use reasonable best efforts, prior to, on and after the Distribution Date, to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable laws, regulations and agreements to consummate and make effective the transactions contemplated by the Separation and Distribution Agreement and the Tax Matters Agreement.
Dispute Resolution
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will contain provisions that govern, except as otherwise provided in the Tax Matters Agreement, the resolution of disputes, controversies or claims that may arise between Bluerock Homes and Bluerock Residential related to the Separation or Distribution. These provisions will contemplate that efforts will be made to resolve disputes, controversies and claims through a transition committee, then by escalation of the matter to executives of the parties in dispute. If such efforts are not successful, one of the parties in dispute may submit the dispute, controversy or claim to nonbinding mediation or, if such nonbinding mediation is not successful, binding arbitration, subject to the provisions of the Separation and Distribution Agreement.
Expenses
Except as expressly set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement or the Tax Matters Agreement and other than as described in the following sentence, Bluerock Residential will be responsible for all of the out-of-pocket fees, costs and expenses of investment bankers, legal counsel, accountants, experts and other third-party professional advisors, SEC filing fees, printing and mailing costs, proxy solicitation costs and all transfer taxes, in each case incurred by or on behalf of either party at or prior to the Merger Effective Time in connection with the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. The first amount of liabilities incurred by either party or its affiliates relating to any certain transaction litigation up to a specified cap will be borne by Bluerock Residential, with liabilities above the cap to be borne 25% by Bluerock Homes and 75% by Bluerock Residential.
Other Matters
Other matters governed by the Separation and Distribution Agreement will include approvals and notifications of transfer, termination of intercompany accounts and agreements, shared contracts, financial information certifications, transition committee provisions, confidentiality, intellectual property, access to and provision of records, privacy and data protection, control of transaction litigation, production of witnesses, privileged matters, and financing arrangements.
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Amendment and Termination
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that it may be terminated, and the Separation and Distribution may be modified or abandoned, at any time prior to the Distribution Date in the sole and absolute discretion of the Bluerock Residential board of directors without the approval of any person, including Bluerock Homes, subject to the rights of Badger Parent under the Merger Agreement. Pursuant to and subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution.
The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that no provision of the Separation and Distribution Agreement or the Tax Matters Agreement may be waived, amended, supplemented or modified by a party without the written consent of the party against whom it is sought to enforce such waiver, amendment supplement or modification. In addition, under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential may make modifications to the separation principles and the step plan for the internal restructuring from time to time; provided that any such modification shall not be adverse (other than in a de minimis respect) to Bluerock Residential or, after giving effect to the Merger, Badger Parent, unless Badger Parent has provided its prior written consent (not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed).
After the Distribution Date, the Separation and Distribution Agreement may not be amended or terminated, except by an agreement in writing signed by Bluerock Homes and Bluerock Residential.
In the event of a termination of the Separation and Distribution Agreement, no party, nor any of its directors, officers or employees, will have any liability of any kind to the other parties or any other person by reason of the Separation and Distribution Agreement.
Related Agreements
Tax Matters Agreement
As of or prior to the Distribution, we and Bluerock Residential will enter into a Tax Matters Agreement that will govern the respective rights, responsibilities and obligations of Bluerock Residential and us after the Distribution with respect to tax liabilities and benefits, tax attributes, certain indemnification rights with respect to tax matters, the preparation and filing of tax returns, the control of audits and other tax proceedings, the intended federal income tax characterization of the Separation and the Distribution and the agreed-upon reporting thereof, and certain other tax matters. Our obligations under the Tax Matters Agreement will not be limited in amount or subject to any cap. If we are required to pay any liabilities under the circumstances set forth in the Tax Matters Agreement or pursuant to applicable tax law, the amounts may be significant. The form of this agreement will be filed as an exhibit to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part.
When and How You Will Receive the Distribution
With the assistance of CTC Bluerock Residential expects to distribute shares of Bluerock Homes common stock on [ ], the expected Distribution Date, to the holders of record of shares of Bluerock Residential common stock at the close of business on the record date. CTC currently serves as the transfer agent and registrar for Bluerock Residential common stock, and CTC will serve as the distribution agent in connection with the Distribution. Thereafter, CTC will serve as the transfer agent and registrar for Bluerock Homes common stock. If you own shares of Bluerock Residential common stock as of the close of business on the record date, Bluerock Residential, with the assistance of CTC, the distribution agent, will electronically distribute shares of Bluerock Homes common stock to you or to your bank or brokerage firm on your behalf in book-entry form. If you are a registered holder, CTC will mail to you a book-entry account statement that reflects your shares of Bluerock Homes common stock. If you hold your shares through a bank or brokerage firm, your bank or brokerage firm will credit your account for the shares. Book-entry form refers to a method of recording share ownership when no physical share certificates are issued to stockholders, as is the case in this Distribution. If you sell your shares of Bluerock Residential common stock in the “regular-way” market beginning on or shortly before the record date and continuing up to and through the Distribution Date, you also will be selling your right to receive shares of Bluerock Homes common stock in connection with the Distribution.
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Most Bluerock Residential stockholders hold their shares of Bluerock Residential common stock through a bank or brokerage firm. In such cases, the bank or brokerage firm would be said to hold the shares in “street name,” and ownership would be recorded on the bank or brokerage firm’s books. If you hold shares of Bluerock Residential common stock through a bank or brokerage firm, your bank or brokerage firm will credit your account for the shares of Bluerock Homes common stock that you are entitled to receive in the Distribution. If you have any questions concerning the mechanics of having shares held in “street name,” please contact your bank or brokerage firm.
Transferability of Shares You Receive
Shares of Bluerock Homes common stock distributed in connection with the Distribution will be transferable without registration under the Securities Act, except for shares received by persons who may be deemed to be our affiliates. Persons who may be deemed to be our affiliates after the Distribution generally include individuals or entities that control, are controlled by, or are under common control with us, which may include certain of our executive officers, directors or principal stockholders. Securities held by our affiliates will be subject to resale restrictions under the Securities Act. Our affiliates will be permitted to sell shares of our common stock only pursuant to an effective registration statement or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, such as the exemption afforded by Rule 144 under the Securities Act.
The Number of Shares of Bluerock Homes Common Stock You Will Receive
For each share of Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Residential Class C common stock that you own as of the close of business on [ ], the expected record date for the Distribution, you will receive [ ] share[s] of Bluerock Homes common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock, as applicable.
Results of the Distribution
After the Distribution, we will be an independent, publicly traded REIT. The actual number of shares to be distributed will be determined at the close of business on the record date for the Distribution.
Prior to the Distribution, we will enter into the Separation and Distribution Agreement with Bluerock Residential and will enter into other agreements with Bluerock Residential as of or prior to the Distribution to effect the Separation and the Distribution. These agreements will provide a framework for our relationship with Bluerock Residential after the Separation and the Distribution.
Additionally, these agreements will allocate between us and Bluerock Residential the assets, liabilities and obligations of Bluerock Residential (including its investments, property, employee, benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to periods prior to, at and after the Distribution. For a more detailed description of these agreements, see “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions.”
Market for Bluerock Homes Common Stock
There is currently no public trading market for Bluerock Homes common stock. We expect to have our common stock authorized for listing on the NYSE American under the symbol “BHM.” We have not and will not set the initial price of our common stock. The initial price will be established by the public markets. We cannot predict the price at which our common stock will trade after the Distribution. The price at which Bluerock Homes common stock trades may fluctuate significantly, particularly until an orderly public market develops. Until the market has fully evaluated our business as a stand-alone entity, the prices at which shares of our common stock trade may fluctuate more significantly than might otherwise be typical, even with other market conditions, including general volatility, held constant. Trading prices for Bluerock Homes common stock will be determined in the public markets and may be influenced by many factors.
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Trading Before the Distribution Date
Beginning on or shortly before the record date and continuing up to and including the Distribution Date, Bluerock Residential expects that there will be two markets for shares of Bluerock Residential common stock: a “regular-way” market and an “ex-distribution” market. Shares of Bluerock Residential common stock that trade on the “regular-way” market will trade with an entitlement to shares of Bluerock Homes common stock distributed in the Distribution. Shares of Bluerock Residential common stock that trade on the “ex-distribution” market will trade without an entitlement to shares of Bluerock Homes common stock distributed pursuant to the Distribution. Therefore, if you sell your shares of Bluerock Residential common stock in the “regular-way” market beginning on or shortly before the record date and continuing up to and through the Distribution Date, you also will be selling your right to receive shares of Bluerock Homes common stock in connection with the Distribution. However, if you sell your shares of Bluerock Residential common stock in the “ex-distribution” market during the same period, you will retain your right to receive shares of Bluerock Homes common stock in connection with the Distribution.
Furthermore, beginning on or shortly before the record date and continuing up to and through the Distribution Date, Bluerock Homes expects that there will be a “when-issued” market for its common stock. “When-issued” trading refers to a sale or purchase made conditionally, because the security has been authorized but not yet issued. The “when-issued” trading market will be a market for Bluerock Homes common stock that will be distributed to holders of Bluerock Residential common stock on the Distribution Date. If you owned shares of Bluerock Residential common stock at the close of business on the record date, you would be entitled to Bluerock Homes common stock distributed pursuant to the Distribution. With respect to Bluerock Residential stockholders, you may trade this entitlement to Bluerock Homes common stock, without the Bluerock Residential common stock you own, on the “when-issued” market. On the first trading day following the Distribution Date, “when-issued” trading with respect to Bluerock Homes common stock will end, and “regular-way” trading will begin. You should consult your bank, broker, nominee or other advisor before selling your shares to be sure you understand the effects of the NYSE American trading procedures described above.
Conditions to the Distribution
Bluerock Homes has announced that the Distribution is expected to be effective at 12:01 a.m., Eastern time, on [ ], the expected Distribution Date, subject to the satisfaction (or waiver by Bluerock Residential) of the following conditions in accordance with the Separation and Distribution Agreement:
| · | the consummation of the Separation in all material respects; |
| · | the SEC declaring effective the registration statement of which this information statement forms a part, with no stop order in effect with respect thereto, and no proceeding for such purpose pending before, or threatened by, the SEC; |
| · | this information statement having been made available to Bluerock Residential stockholders; |
| · | the receipt of the opinion of Vinson & Elkins L.L.P., to the effect that, beginning with our short taxable year ending December 31, 2022, we will be organized in conformity with the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws, and our intended method of operation will enable us to qualify as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws for our taxable year ending December 31, 2022 and thereafter; |
| · | the Bluerock Residential board of directors having received one or more opinions from one or more nationally recognized valuation or accounting firms or investment banks reasonably acceptable to Bluerock Residential and Badger Parent as to the solvency of Bluerock Homes after the completion of the Distribution, and such opinion(s) having not been withdrawn or rescinded; |
| · | no order, injunction, or decree issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing the consummation of the Separation, the Distribution or any of the related transactions being in effect; |
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| · | all necessary permits and authorizations under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act relating to the issuance and trading of shares of Bluerock Homes common stock having been obtained and being in effect; |
| · | the Bluerock Homes common stock to be distributed having been accepted for listing on the NYSE American, subject to official notice of distribution; |
| · | all actions or filings necessary or appropriate under applicable U.S. federal, state or other securities or blue sky laws and the rules and regulations thereunder having been taken and, where applicable, having become effective or been accepted by the applicable governmental entity; |
| · | the execution of ancillary agreements by Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes, including the Tax Matters Agreement; and |
| · | no other event or development existing or having occurred that, in the judgment of Bluerock Residential’s board of directors, in its sole and absolute discretion, makes it inadvisable to effect the Separation, the Distribution and the other related transactions (except that the consent of Badger Parent would be required for Bluerock Residential to rely on the condition described in this bullet as a basis for not completing the Distribution). |
Bluerock Residential and Bluerock Homes cannot assure you that any or all of these conditions will be met. Bluerock Residential can, subject to the rights of Badger Parent under the Merger Agreement, decline at any time to go forward with the Distribution. Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution. In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement. Accordingly, the Merger will not be completed unless and until the Separation and the Distribution are completed.
Bluerock Residential does not intend to notify its stockholders of any modifications to the terms of the Separation or the Distribution that, in the judgment of its board of directors (or officers insofar as permitted by its board of directors), are not material. The Bluerock Residential board of directors might, however, consider material, for example, significant changes to the Distribution Ratio, or to the assets to be contributed or the liabilities to be assumed in the Separation. To the extent that the Bluerock Residential board of directors determines that any modifications by Bluerock Residential materially change the material terms of the Distribution, Bluerock Residential will notify Bluerock Residential stockholders in a manner reasonably calculated to inform them about the modification as may be required by law, by, for example, publishing a press release, filing a current report on Form 8-K, or circulating a supplement to this information statement.
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DIVIDEND POLICY
We are a newly formed company that has not commenced operations, and as a result, we have not paid any dividends as of the date of this information statement. We intend to elect and qualify to be taxed as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes commencing with our initial taxable year ending December 31, 2022. We intend to make regular distributions to our stockholders to satisfy the requirements to qualify as a REIT and to avoid current entity level U.S. federal income taxes. To qualify as a REIT, we must annually distribute to our stockholders at least 90% of our REIT taxable income, determined without regard to the dividends paid deduction and excluding net capital gains. Please refer to “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences — Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations Regarding Bluerock Homes’ Taxation as a REIT.”
We cannot assure you that our dividend policy will remain the same in the future, or that any estimated dividends will be paid or sustained. Dividends paid by us will be authorized and determined by our board of directors, in its sole discretion, out of legally available funds, and will be dependent upon a number of factors, including restrictions under applicable law, actual and projected financial condition, liquidity, funds from operations and results of operations, the revenue we actually receive from our properties, our operating expenses, our debt service requirements, our capital expenditures, prohibitions and other limitations under our financing arrangements, the annual REIT distribution requirements and such other factors as our board of directors deems relevant. For more information regarding risk factors that could materially and adversely affect our ability to pay dividends, see “Risk Factors” beginning on page 23.
Our dividends may be funded from a variety of sources. In particular, we expect that, initially, our dividends may exceed our net income under GAAP because of non-cash expenses, mainly depreciation and amortization expense, which are included in net income. To the extent that our funds available for distribution are less than the amount we must distribute to our stockholders to satisfy the requirements to qualify as a REIT, we may consider various means to cover any such shortfall, including borrowing under loans, selling certain of our assets or using a portion of the net proceeds we receive from future offerings of equity, equity-related securities or debt securities or declaring taxable share dividends. In addition, our charter allows us to issue shares of preferred equity that could have a preference on dividends, and if we do, the dividend preference on the preferred equity could limit our ability to pay dividends to the holders of our common stock.
For a discussion of the tax treatment of distributions to holders of our common stock, please refer to “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences — Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations Regarding Bluerock Homes’ Taxation as a REIT.”
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CAPITALIZATION
The following table sets forth our capitalization as of December 31, 2021, on a historical basis and on a pro forma basis to give effect to the pro forma adjustments included in our Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements. The information below is not necessarily indicative of what our capitalization would have been had the Separation, the Distribution and related financing transactions been completed as of December 31, 2021. In addition, it is not indicative of our future capitalization. This table should be read in conjunction with “Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and our Combined Financial Statements and notes included in the “Index to Financial Statements” section of this information statement.
| December 31, 2021 | ||||||||
| (dollar amounts in millions) | Actual | Pro Forma | ||||||
| Cash | ||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 128,861 | $ | 157,291 | ||||
| Capitalization: | ||||||||
| Debt Outstanding | ||||||||
| Long-term debt | $ | 58,058 | $ | 63,991 | ||||
| Total indebtedness | 79,381 | 76,465 | ||||||
| Equity | ||||||||
| Common stock, par value $0.01 | $ | [ ] | $ | [ ] | ||||
| Additional paid-in capital | [ ] | [ ] | ||||||
| Total Bluerock Homes Equity | 439,219 | 161,902 | ||||||
| Total equity | 439,219 | 161,902 | ||||||
| Total capitalization | $ | 518,610 | $ | 238,367 | ||||
Bluerock Homes has not yet finalized its post-distribution capitalization. Pro forma financial information reflecting Bluerock Homes’ post-distribution capitalization will be included in an amendment to this information statement.
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UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2021
On December 20, 2021, the Company, Badger Parent and Merger Sub entered into the Merger Agreement, pursuant to which, on the terms and conditions set forth therein, Bluerock Residential will merge with and into Merger Sub, with Merger Sub continuing as the surviving company in the Merger. Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution. In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement.
Prior to the Distribution and the Merger Effective Time, Bluerock Residential will complete the Separation to separate the Single-Family Properties and certain other assets such that these businesses and assets are owned and operated by Bluerock Residential Holdings and its subsidiaries.
Following the Separation, Bluerock Homes will be the sole general partner of Bluerock Residential Holdings and own approximately [ ]% of the limited partnership units in Bluerock Residential Holdings.
The following transactions, among others, are expected to occur in advance of the Distribution:
| · | Bluerock Residential will have taken all actions necessary to complete the Separation, including but not limited to the following steps: |
| · | Bluerock Residential Holdings will form the New LP. Bluerock Residential Holdings will contribute its interests in Bluerock Residential’s multi-family residential real estate business and certain other assets to the New LP; |
| · | Bluerock Residential Holdings will distribute the New LP to Bluerock Residential in exchange for a redemption of 25,210,092 of Bluerock Residential’s common units in Bluerock Residential Holdings and all of Bluerock Residential’s outstanding preferred interests. Duff & Phelps delivered an opinion on this consideration to the Bluerock Residential board of directors in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement. After consideration of this opinion and other documents and presentations, the non-management directors of the Bluerock Residential board of directors approved this exchange; and |
| · | Bluerock Residential will then contribute its remaining interest in Bluerock Residential Holdings (including the general partnership interest) to Bluerock Homes. |
Immediately following the Distribution, Bluerock Homes, Bluerock Residential Holdings and our Manager will enter into a management agreement (the “Management Agreement”), pursuant to which our Manager will provide certain services as more fully described in “Our Manager and Management Agreement.”
The following unaudited pro forma combined financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2021 have been derived from the historical combined financial statements of the Predecessor Entity (as defined in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”) included elsewhere in this information statement.
The following unaudited pro forma combined financial statements give effect to the following:
| · | the Separation and the Distribution; |
| · | our anticipated post-Separation capital structure of which the common stockholders are expected to indirectly own 35% of the Bluerock Homes Business and the unitholders in the Operating Partnership are expected to own 65% of the Bluerock Homes Business; |
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| · | acquisition of 1,647 single-family units since January 1, 2021 which are consolidated in our financial statements; |
| · | net investment of $48.1 million in preferred equity and mezzanine loan investments since January 1, 2021; and |
| · | proceeds of $31.0 million from paydown on a mezzanine loan. |
The unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet assumes the Distribution occurred on December 31, 2021. The unaudited pro forma combined statement of operations presented for the year ended December 31, 2021 assume the Distribution occurred on January 1, 2021. Our unaudited pro forma combined financial statements and explanatory notes present how our financial statements may have appeared had we completed the above transactions as of the dates noted above.
The following unaudited pro forma combined financial statements were prepared using the assumptions set forth in the notes to our unaudited pro forma combined financial statements. The unaudited pro forma combined financial statements are presented for illustrative purposes only and do not purport to reflect the results we may achieve in future periods or the historical results that would have been obtained had the above transactions been completed on January 1, 2021. The unaudited pro forma combined financial statements also do not give effect to the potential impact of current financial conditions, any anticipated synergies, operating efficiencies or cost savings that may result from the transactions described above.
The unaudited pro forma combined financial statements do not indicate results expected for any future period. The unaudited pro forma combined financial statements are derived from and should be read in conjunction with the historical combined financial statements and accompanying notes of the Predecessor Entity appearing elsewhere in this information statement.
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UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2021
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
| Predecessor Historical | Transaction Accounting Adjustments | Pro Forma Total | ||||||||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||||||||
| Net Real Estate Investments | ||||||||||||||
| Land | $ | 41,997 | $ | 1,148 | $ | 43,145 | ||||||||
| Building and improvements | 278,592 | 5,649 | 284,241 | |||||||||||
| Furniture, fixtures and equipment | 2,459 | — | 2,459 | |||||||||||
| Total Gross Real Estate Investments | 323,048 | 6,797 | 329,845 | |||||||||||
| Accumulated depreciation | (4,964 | ) | — | (4,964 | ) | |||||||||
| Total Net Real Estate Investments | 318,084 | 6,797 | A | 324,881 | ||||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 128,861 | 28,430 | B, C | 157,291 | ||||||||||
| Restricted cash | 7,540 | 2,500 | C | 10,040 | ||||||||||
| Notes and accrued interest receivable from related parties | 38,883 | (24,155 | ) | D | 14,728 | |||||||||
| Accounts receivable, prepaids and other assets | 4,917 | 1,487 | E | 6,404 | ||||||||||
| Preferred equity investments and investments in unconsolidated real estate joint ventures | 39,521 | 5,357 | F | 44,878 | ||||||||||
| In-place lease intangible assets, net | 2,525 | — | 2,525 | |||||||||||
| Total Assets | $ | 540,331 | $ | 20,416 | $ | 560,747 | ||||||||
| LIABILITIES AND EQUITY | ||||||||||||||
| Mortgages payable | $ | 63,007 | $ | 5,933 | G | $ | 68,940 | |||||||
| Accounts payable | 2,087 | (756 | ) | H | 1,331 | |||||||||
| Other accrued liabilities | 10,666 | (4,978 | ) | C, H | 5,688 | |||||||||
| Due to affiliates | 506 | — | 506 | |||||||||||
| Distributions payable | 3,115 | (3,115 | ) | H | — | |||||||||
| Total Liabilities | 79,381 | (2,916 | ) | 76,465 | ||||||||||
| Equity | ||||||||||||||
| Bluerock Homes Equity | 439,219 | (277,317 | ) | I | 161,902 | |||||||||
| Noncontrolling Interests | ||||||||||||||
| Operating partnership units | — | 300,676 | J | 300,676 | ||||||||||
| Partially owned properties | 21,731 | (27 | ) | J | 21,704 | |||||||||
| Total Noncontrolling Interests | 21,731 | 300,649 | 322,380 | |||||||||||
| Total Equity | 460,950 | 23,332 | 484,282 | |||||||||||
| TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY | $ | 540,331 | $ | 20,416 | $ | 560,747 | ||||||||
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Balance Sheet
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Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED STATEMENT OF
OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
| Predecessor Historical | Transaction Accounting Adjustments | Pro Forma Total | ||||||||||||||
| Revenues | ||||||||||||||||
| Rental and other property revenues | $ | 9,275 | $ | 16,575 | a | $ | 25,850 | |||||||||
| Interest income from loan investments | 4,452 | (2,778 | ) | b | 1,674 | |||||||||||
| Total revenues | 13,727 | 13,797 | 27,524 | |||||||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||||||
| Property operating | 3,227 | 6,122 | a | 9,349 | ||||||||||||
| Management fees | 550 | 1,947 | c | 2,497 | ||||||||||||
| General and administrative | 3,062 | — | d | 3,062 | ||||||||||||
| Base management fee | — | 7,250 | e | 7,250 | ||||||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 5,862 | 8,541 | f | 14,403 | ||||||||||||
| Total expenses | 12,701 | 23,860 | 36,561 | |||||||||||||
| Operating income | 1,026 | (10,063 | ) | (9,037 | ) | |||||||||||
| Other (expense) income | ||||||||||||||||
| Other income | 250 | — | 250 | |||||||||||||
| Preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures | 1,974 | 3,574 | g | 5,548 | ||||||||||||
| Provision for credit losses | (47 | ) | — | (47 | ) | |||||||||||
| Interest expense, net | (2,915 | ) | 266 | h | (2,649 | ) | ||||||||||
| Total other (expense) income | (738 | ) | 3,840 | 3,102 | ||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) | 288 | (6,223 | ) | (5,935 | ) | |||||||||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating partnership units | — | (2,274 | ) | i | (2,274 | ) | ||||||||||
| Partially-owned properties | (630 | ) | (1,805 | ) | i | (2,435 | ) | |||||||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests | (630 | ) | (4,079 | ) | (4,709 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net income attributable to common stockholders | $ | 918 | $ | (2,144 | ) | $ | (1,226 | ) | ||||||||
| Net Loss Per Common Share – Basic | $ | [ ] | $ | [ ] | ||||||||||||
| Net Loss Per Common Share – Diluted | $ | [ ] | $ | [ ] | ||||||||||||
| Weighted Average Basic Common Shares Outstanding | [ ] | [ ] | ||||||||||||||
| Weighted Average Diluted Common Shares Outstanding | [ ] | [ ] | ||||||||||||||
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statement of Operations
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NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Adjustments to the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Balance Sheet
The unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet as of December 31, 2021 reflects the following adjustments:
| A. | Net real estate investments |
The following table summarizes the purchases of interests in the below properties, which the Company expects to consolidate on its balance sheet (dollars in thousands):
| Date Acquired | Units(3) | Land | Buildings and improvements | Furniture, fixtures and equipment | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| ILE | October 4, 2021(1) | 293 | $ | 601 | $ | 2,668 | $ | — | $ | 3,269 | ||||||||||||
| Golden Pacific | November 23, 2021(2) | 27 | 547 | 2,981 | — | 3,528 | ||||||||||||||||
| 320 | $ | 1,148 | $ | 5,649 | $ | — | $ | 6,797 | ||||||||||||||
| (1) | Land and Building and improvements represent the 14 additional homes that were purchased in 2022. |
| (2) | Land and Building and improvements represent the 20 additional homes that were purchased in 2022. |
| (3) | Total units purchased in 2021 and 2022. |
| B. | Cash and cash equivalents |
Cash and restricted cash balances of $167.3 million represents:
| · | $185.7 million of cash to be contributed to Bluerock Homes immediately prior to the Distribution; |
| · | $33.9 million received from the payoff of the Hartley at Blue Hill mezzanine loan including accrued interest; |
| · | $7.6 million of proceeds received from borrowing on debt allocated to Bluerock Homes (after the execution of the Merger Agreement); |
| · | $2.5 million restricted cash to be received (discussed below in footnote C); offset by, |
| · | $62.4 million of cash used to acquire assets (after the execution of the Agreement) allocated to Bluerock Homes in the Separation. |
| C. | Restricted cash |
Bluerock Residential and BRE are parties to a Leasehold Cost-Sharing Agreement (the “Leasehold Cost-Sharing Agreement”) with respect to the Sublease to provide for the allocation and sharing between BRE and Bluerock Residential of the costs thereunder, including costs associated with tenant improvements. The Sublease permits Bluerock Residential and certain of its respective subsidiaries and/or affiliates to share occupancy of the New York headquarters with BRE. These occupancy costs are shared between Bluerock Residential and BRE, with Bluerock Residential’s allocation being variable based on usage. BRE invoices Bluerock Residential on a quarterly basis under a variable usage formula and Bluerock Residential reimburses BRE for its variable allocation of occupancy costs.
The interests of Bluerock Residential under the Sublease will be assigned (subject to any required consents of Sublandlord and Landlord) to Bluerock Homes, including all of Bluerock Residential’s liabilities associated therewith, except Badger Parent will pay to Bluerock Homes $2.5 million of the remaining rent as of the consummation of the Distribution at the consummation of the Merger. The adjustment amount is reflected as restricted cash and a liability.
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| D. | Notes and accrued interest receivable |
The following table summarizes adjustments to notes and accrued interest receivable as if the activity had occurred on January 1, 2021 (amounts in thousands):
| Total | ||||
| Weatherford | $ | 9,744 | ||
| The Hartley at Blue Hill(1) | (33,899 | ) | ||
| $ | (24,155 | ) | ||
| (1) | Reflects the payoff of the notes and accrued interest receivable in 2022. |
| E. | Accounts receivables, prepaids and other assets |
Represents the following adjustments: (i) increase of accrued interest of $3.0 million related to the increase in preferred equity investments as if these investments had occurred on January 1, 2021, and (ii) decrease of ($1.5) million for assets not specifically identified to be assumed by Bluerock Homes.
| F. | Preferred equity investments and investments in unconsolidated real estate joint ventures |
The following table summarizes adjustments to the carrying amount of preferred equity investments as if these investments had occurred on January 1, 2021 (amounts in thousands):
| Dates of Investments | Total Investment Adjustment | |||||||
| The Cottages of Port St. Lucie | January 31, 2022 February 24, 2022 | $ | 2,309 | |||||
| The Cottages at Myrtle Beach | January 27, 2022 February 28, 2022 | 1,854 | ||||||
| The Cottages at Warner Robins | January 31, 2022 February 24, 2022 | 1,194 | ||||||
| $ | 5,357 | |||||||
| G. | Mortgages payable |
Represents $5.9 million of mortgages payable related to the ILE Homes acquisition.
| H. | Revolving credit facilities, Accounts payable, Other accrued liabilities, Distributions payable |
Represents adjustments for liabilities not specifically identified to be assumed by Bluerock Homes.
| I. | Equity |
Represents the equity of Bluerock Homes’ common stockholders. Following the Separation and the Distribution, the stockholders who receive shares of Bluerock Homes in the Distribution are expected to indirectly own approximately 35% of the Bluerock Homes Business.
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| J. | Noncontrolling interests |
The operating partnership units adjustment represents the interests of the Operating Partnership’s unitholders. Following the Separation and the Distribution, the unitholders are expected to indirectly own approximately 65% of the Bluerock Homes Business.
The partially owned properties adjustment represents the joint venture partners’ interests in consolidated joint ventures.
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Adjustments to the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Statement of Operations
The unaudited pro forma combined statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 reflects the following adjustments:
| a. | Rental and other property revenues and Property operating expenses |
Historical revenues were utilized for our Wayford at Concord property. For the remaining properties, revenues were based on the December 31, 2021 rent rolls which are supported by executed leases. The actual December 31, 2021 rental rates and occupancy percentages from the rent rolls were utilized to reflect the historical revenues as if the properties were acquired on January 1, 2021. Our historical single family residential bad debt expense rate (1.3% of revenues) was also applied to the rent roll revenues.
Historical expenses were utilized for our Wayford at Concord property. For our remaining properties, property operating expenses were based on and adjusted from a combination of actual expenses, property management agreements, our partners' historical expense experience and extrapolations from residential assets based on our historical experience, as if the properties were acquired on January 1, 2021. Below are the details of each property operating expense category:
| • | Real estate tax adjustment is based on actual 2021 real estate tax bills. |
| • | Insurance expense adjustment is based on our current insurance policy premium. |
| • | Franchise tax adjustment is based on calculated tax amounts per the municipality's tax code. |
| • | Homeowners Association (“HOA”) fee adjustment is based on actual HOA dues. |
| • | Leasing commissions are derived from the property management agreements. |
| • | Utilities, administrative, and repairs and maintenance adjustments are based on our joint venture partners' historical experience and our multifamily historical experience. |
The following table summarizes the adjustments to revenues and expenses (amounts in thousands):
| Initial Date Acquired | Units | Rental and other property revenues | Property operating expenses | |||||||||||
| Yauger Park Villas | April 14, 2021 | 80 | $ | 543 | $ | 177 | ||||||||
| Wayford at Concord | June 4, 2021 | 150 | 1,303 | 502 | ||||||||||
| Indy | August 12, 2021 | 44 | 232 | 87 | ||||||||||
| Springfield | August 18, 2021 | 290 | 2,438 | 607 | ||||||||||
| Springtown | September 15, 2021 | 70 | 618 | 229 | ||||||||||
| Texarkana | September 21, 2021 | 29 | 188 | 72 | ||||||||||
| Lubbock | September 24, 2021 | 60 | 442 | 160 | ||||||||||
| Granbury | September 30, 2021 | 36 | 481 | 121 | ||||||||||
| ILE | October 4, 2021 | 293 | 3,440 | 1,704 | ||||||||||
| Axelrod | October 5, 2021 | 22 | 259 | 97 | ||||||||||
| Springtown 2.0 | October 26, 2021 | 14 | 177 | 67 | ||||||||||
| Lubbock 2.0 | October 28, 2021 | 75 | 823 | 230 | ||||||||||
| Lynnwood | November 16, 2021 | 20 | 197 | 59 | ||||||||||
| Golden Pacific | November 23, 2021 | 27 | 158 | 159 | ||||||||||
| Lynnwood 2.0 | December 1, 2021 | 20 | 216 | 61 | ||||||||||
| Lubbock 3.0 | December 8, 2021 | 45 | 461 | 143 | ||||||||||
| Texas Portfolio 183 | December 22, 2021 | 183 | 2,513 | 797 | ||||||||||
| DFW 189 | December 29, 2021 | 189 | 2,086 | 850 | ||||||||||
| 1,647 | $ | 16,575 | $ | 6,122 | ||||||||||
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| b. | Interest income |
The following table summarizes adjustments to interest income from loan investments as if the loan activity had occurred on January 1, 2021 (amounts in thousands):
| Interest income | ||||
| The Hartley at Blue Hill | $ | (3,649 | ) | |
| Corpus Christi | (219 | ) | ||
| Jolin | (83 | ) | ||
| Weatherford | 1,173 | |||
| $ | (2,778 | ) | ||
| c. | Management fees |
Represents the property management and asset management fees related to the properties in Footnote a. Property management fees are calculated pursuant to property management agreements with our property managers and are based on a stated percentage of property revenues. Asset management fees are calculated pursuant to asset management agreements with our joint venture partners and are based on a stated percentage of capital contributions or assets under management, where applicable.
| d. | General and administrative |
Management initially expects annual general and administrative expenses to be in the range of $[ ] million to $[ ] million without consideration for equity-based compensation expenses. Included in this range, we estimate recurring general and administrative expenses of approximately $[ ] million to $[ ] million as the result of being a public company. As we have not yet entered into contracts with third parties to provide the services included within this estimate, these estimated expenses do not appear in the unaudited pro forma combined statement of operations.
| e. | Base management fee |
Represents the Base Management Fee as defined in “Our Manager and Management Agreement—The Management Agreement.”
| f. | Depreciation and amortization |
Represents depreciation and amortization expense adjustments to historical results for the year ended December 31, 2021 based on the allocation of the purchase prices. Depreciation expense is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of 30 – 40 years for the building, 5 – 15 years for building and land improvements and 3 – 7 years for furniture, fixtures and equipment. Amortization expense on identifiable intangible assets is recognized using the straight-line method over the life of the lease, which is generally less than one year.
| g. | Preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures |
The following table summarizes adjustments to the returns from preferred equity investments as if these investments had occurred on January 1, 2021 (amounts in thousands):
| Interest income | ||||
| Peak Portfolio | $ | 942 | ||
| Wayford at Concord(1) | (364 | ) | ||
| Willow Park | 284 | |||
| The Cottages of Port St. Lucie | 1,179 | |||
| The Cottages at Myrtle Beach | 1,300 | |||
| The Cottages at Warner Robins | 176 | |||
| The Woods at Forest Hill | 57 | |||
| $ | 3,574 | |||
| (1) | Reflects an adjustment for the redemption of the preferred equity investment on June 4, 2021 in connection with the purchase of the property. |
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| h. | Interest expense, net |
Represents the following adjustments: (i) decrease of $1.5 million for interest expense not specifically identified to be assumed by Bluerock Homes, (ii) interest expense for Yauger Park Villas of ($0.2) million estimated to have been incurred on a $10.4 million senior loan at a fixed rate of 4.81% and a $4.6 million supplemental loan at a fixed rate of 4.96%, both maturing on April 1, 2026, calculated as if the loan were entered into on January 1, 2021, and lender loan fees which are recognized over the life of the remaining term of the mortgages and (iii) interest expense for ILE Homes of ($1.1) million estimated to have been incurred on a $32.6 million financing at a rate of 3.78%.
| i. | Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests |
Represents the adjustment to allocate net income (loss) to noncontrolling interests for Operating Partnership unitholders and partially owned properties.
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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following is a discussion of the historical results of operations and liquidity and capital resources of Bluerock Homes, which was not operated as a stand-alone business. You should read the following discussion and analysis in conjunction with “Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements” and the financial statements beginning on page F-1 included elsewhere in this information statement. This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements. The matters discussed in these forward-looking statements are subject to risk, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those made, projected or implied in the forward-looking statements. Please refer to “Risk Factors,” beginning on page 23 and “Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements” for a discussion of the uncertainties, risks and assumptions associated with these statements.
The Separation and the Distribution
On December 20, 2021, Bluerock Residential, Badger Parent and Merger Sub entered into the Merger Agreement, pursuant to which, on the terms and conditions set forth therein, Bluerock Residential will merge with and into Merger Sub, with Merger Sub continuing as the surviving company in the Merger. Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the Separation and the Distribution. In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement. Accordingly, the Merger will not be completed unless and until the Separation and the Distribution are completed.
The Distribution is expected to occur on [ ], subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions to the Distribution set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, by way of a special dividend to Bluerock Residential common stockholders. In the Distribution, holders of each share of Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Residential Class C common stock as of the record date will be entitled to receive [ ] share[s] of Bluerock Homes common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock, as applicable. Bluerock Residential stockholders will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange their Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Residential Class C common stock, or take any other action to receive their shares of Bluerock Homes common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock in the Distribution. The Distribution of Bluerock Homes common stock and Bluerock Homes Class C common stock as described in this information statement is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions, including consummation of the Separation in all material respects.
The Company has historically operated as part of Bluerock Residential and not as a stand-alone company. Financial statements representing the historical operations of Bluerock Residential’s single-family rental business have been derived from Bluerock Residential’s historical accounting records and are presented on a carve-out basis. All revenues and costs as well as assets and liabilities directly associated with the business activity of the Company are included in the financial statements. The financial statements also include allocations of certain general, administrative, sales and marketing expenses and operations from Bluerock Residential. However, amounts recognized by the Company are not necessarily representative of the amounts that would have been reflected in the financial statements had the Company operated independently of Bluerock Residential. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
Basis of Presentation
Bluerock Homes consists of the combined financial statements of the following entities and investments: the Operating Partnership, Bluerock REIT Operator, LLC, Golden Pacific, ILE, Navigator Villas, Peak Housing (Axelrod, DFW 189, Granbury, Indy, Lubbock, Lubbock 2.0, Lubbock 3.0, Lynnwood, Lynnwood 2.0, Peak I, Springfield, Springtown, Springtown 2.0, Texarkana and Texas Portfolio 183), The Cottages at Myrtle Beach, The Cottages at Warner Robins, The Cottages of Port St. Lucie, The Hartley at Blue Hill, The Woods at Forest Hill, Wayford at Concord, Wayford at Innovation Park, Willow Park, and Yauger Park Villas (collectively, the “Predecessor Entity”). The general and administrative expenses have been allocated to the Predecessor Entity based on relative unit count, which the Company believes to be a reasonable methodology. These allocated expenses are for corporate office expenses and management including, but not limited to, executive oversight, asset management, treasury, finance, human resources, tax, accounting, financial reporting, information technology and investor relations.
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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Real Estate Investments and Preferred Equity Investments
The Company first analyzes an investment to determine if it is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) in accordance with Topic ASC 810 and, if so, whether the Company is the primary beneficiary requiring consolidation of the entity. A VIE is an entity that has (i) insufficient equity to permit it to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or (ii) equity holders that lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest. VIEs are consolidated by the primary beneficiary, which is the entity that has both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the entity that potentially could be significant to the entity. Variable interests in a VIE are contractual, ownership, or other financial interests in a VIE that change in value with changes in the fair value of the VIE’s net assets. The Company continuously re-assesses at each level of the investment whether the entity is (i) a VIE, and (ii) if the Company is the primary beneficiary of the VIE. If it was determined that an entity in which the Company holds an interest qualified as a VIE and the Company was the primary beneficiary, the entity would be consolidated.
If, after consideration of the VIE accounting literature, the Company has determined that an entity is not a VIE, the Company assesses the need for consolidation under all other provisions of ASC 810. These provisions provide for consolidation of majority-owned entities through a majority voting interest held by the Company providing control.
In assessing whether the Company is in control of and requiring consolidation of the limited liability company and partnership venture structures, the Company evaluates the respective rights and privileges afforded each member or partner (collectively referred to as “member”). The Company’s member would not be deemed to control the entity if any of the other members have either (i) substantive kickout rights providing the ability to dissolve (liquidate) the entity or otherwise remove the managing member or general partner without cause or (ii) substantive participating rights in the entity. Substantive participating rights (whether granted by contract or law) provide for the ability to effectively participate in significant decisions of the entity that would be expected to be made in the ordinary course of business.
If it has been determined that the Company does not have control but does have the ability to exercise significant influence over the entity, the Company accounts for these investments as preferred equity investments and investments in unconsolidated real estate joint ventures in its consolidated balance sheets. In accordance with ASC 320 Investments – Debt Securities, the Company classifies each preferred equity investment as a held to maturity debt security as the Company has the intention and ability to hold the investment to maturity. The Company earns a fixed return on these investments which is included within preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures in its consolidated statements of operations. The Company evaluates the collectability of each preferred equity investment and estimates a provision for credit loss, as applicable. Refer to the Current Expected Credit Losses (“CECL”) section of this Note for further information regarding CECL and the Company’s provision for credit losses.
Notes Receivable (Real Estate Loan Investment)
The Company analyzes each loan arrangement that involves real estate development to consider whether the loan qualifies for accounting as a loan or as an investment in a real estate development project. The Company has evaluated its real estate loans, where appropriate, for accounting treatment as loans versus real estate development projects, as required by ASC 310-10 Receivables. For each loan, the Company has concluded that the characteristics and the facts and circumstances indicate that loan accounting treatment is appropriate. The Company recognizes interest income on its notes receivable on the accrual method unless a significant uncertainty of collection exists. If a significant uncertainty exists, interest income is recognized as collected. Costs incurred to originate its notes receivable are deferred and amortized using the effective interest method over the term of the related notes receivable. The Company evaluates the collectability of each loan investment and estimates a provision for credit loss, as applicable.
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Fair Value of Financial Instruments
As of December 31, 2021, the carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, due to and due from affiliates, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and distributions payable approximate their fair value based on their highly-liquid nature and/or short-term maturities. The carrying values of notes receivable approximate fair value because stated interest rate terms are consistent with interest rate terms on new deals with similar leverage and risk profiles. The fair values of notes receivable are classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to the significant unobservable inputs that are utilized in their respective valuations.
Real Estate Assets
Capital Additions, Depreciation and Amortization
The Company capitalizes costs, including certain indirect costs, incurred in connection with its capital addition activities, including redevelopment, development and construction projects, other tangible property improvements, and replacements of existing property components. Included in these capitalized costs are payroll costs associated with time spent by employees in connection with capital addition activities at the property level. The Company characterizes as “indirect costs” an allocation of certain department costs, including payroll, at the corporate levels that clearly relate to capital additions activities. The Company also capitalizes interest, property taxes and insurance during periods in which redevelopment, development and construction projects are in progress. Cost capitalization begins once the development or construction activity commences and ceases when the asset is ready for its intended use. Repair and maintenance and tenant turnover costs are expensed as incurred. Repair and maintenance and tenant turnover costs include all costs that do not extend the useful life of the real estate asset. Depreciation and amortization expense are computed on the straight-line method over the asset’s estimated useful life. The Company considers the period of future benefit of an asset to determine its appropriate useful life and anticipates the estimated useful lives of assets by class to be generally as follows:
| Buildings | 30 – 40 years |
| Building improvements | 5 – 15 years |
| Land improvements | 5 – 15 years |
| Furniture, fixtures and equipment | 3 – 7 years |
| In-place leases | 6 months |
Impairment of Real Estate Assets
The Company continually monitors events and changes in circumstances that could indicate that the carrying amounts of the Company’s real estate and related intangible assets may not be recoverable. When indicators of potential impairment suggest that the carrying value of real estate and related intangible assets may not be recoverable, the Company assesses the recoverability of the assets by estimating whether the Company will recover the carrying value of the asset through its undiscounted future cash flows and its eventual disposition. Based on this analysis, if the Company does not believe that it will be able to recover the carrying value of the real estate and related intangible assets and liabilities, the Company will record an impairment loss to the extent that the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value of the real estate and related intangible assets. No impairment charges were recorded in 2020 or 2021.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents may include cash and short-term investments. Short-term investments are stated at cost, which approximates fair value.
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Restricted Cash
Restricted cash is comprised of lender-imposed escrow accounts for replacement reserves, real estate taxes and insurance.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company maintains cash balances with high quality financial institutions and periodically evaluates the creditworthiness of such institutions and believes that the Company is not exposed to significant credit risk. Cash balances may be in excess of the amounts insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Rents and Other Receivables
The Company will periodically evaluate the collectability of amounts due from tenants and maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of tenants to make required payments under lease agreements. The Company exercises judgment in establishing these allowances and considers payment history and current credit status of tenants in developing these estimates.
Deferred Financing Fees
Deferred financing fees represent commitment fees, legal fees and other third-party costs associated with obtaining financing. Fees associated with the Company’s lines of credit are recorded within accounts receivable, prepaids and other assets on the combined balances sheet. Deferred fees associated with its lines of credit are amortized to interest expense over the terms of the financing agreements using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method.
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling interests are comprised of the Company’s joint venture partners’ interests in consolidated joint ventures, as well as interests held by Long-term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) unitholders and Operating Partnership unitholders. The Company reports its joint venture partners’ interest in its consolidated real estate joint ventures and other subsidiary interests held by third parties as noncontrolling interests. The Company records these noncontrolling interests at their initial fair value, adjusting the basis prospectively for their share of the respective consolidated investments’ net income or loss and equity contributions and distributions. These noncontrolling interests are not redeemable by the equity holders and are presented as part of permanent equity. Income and losses are allocated to the noncontrolling interest holder pursuant to each joint venture’s operating agreement.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes rental revenue on a straight-line basis over the terms of the rental agreements and in accordance with ASC Topic 842 Leases. Rental revenue is recognized on an accrual basis and when the collectability of the amounts due from tenants is deemed probable. Rental revenue is included within rental and other property revenues on the Company’s combined statement of operations. Amounts received in advance are recorded as a liability within other accrued liabilities on the Company’s combined balance sheet.
Other property revenues are recognized in the period earned.
Reportable Segment
The Company’s current business consists of investing in and operating residential rental properties. Substantially all its consolidated net income (loss) is from investments in residential real estate properties that the Company owns through co-investment ventures or invests in through real estate loans. The Company evaluates operating performance on an individual property investment level and based on the properties’ similar economic characteristics. The Company views its real estate assets as one reportable segment, and, accordingly, aggregates its properties into one reportable segment.
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Lessor Accounting
The Company’s current portfolio generates rental revenue by leasing residential homes. As lease revenues for residential homes fall under the scope of ASC Topic 842, such lease revenues are classified as operating leases with straight-line recognition over the terms of the relevant lease agreement and inclusion within rental revenue. Resident leases are generally for one-year or month-to-month terms and are renewable by mutual agreement between the Company and the resident. Non-lease components of the Company’s leases are combined with the related lease component and accounted for as a single lease component under ASC Topic 842. The balances of net real estate investments and related depreciation on the Company’s combined financial statements relate to assets for which the Company is the lessor.
Lessee Accounting
The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. The Company determined that the lessee operating lease commitments have no material impact on its combined financial statements with the adoption of ASC Topic 842. The Company will continue to assess any modification of existing lease agreements and execution of any new lease agreements for the potential requirement of recording a right-of-use-asset or liability in the future.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-01 “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848)” (“ASU 2021-01”). The amendments in ASU 2021-01 permit entities to elect certain optional expedients in connection with reference rate reform activities and their impact on debt, contract modifications and derivative instruments as it is expected the global market will transition from LIBOR and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. The amendments in ASU 2021-01 are effective immediately and may be elected over time as reference rate reform activities occur through December 31, 2022. The Company will continue to evaluate the impact of the guidance and may apply elections as applicable as changes in the market occur.
Current Expected Credit Losses (“CECL”)
The Company estimates provision for credit losses on its loans (notes receivable) and preferred equity investments under CECL. This method is based on expected credit losses for the life of the investment as of each balance sheet date. The method for calculating the estimate of expected credit loss takes into account historical experience and current conditions for similar loans and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future.
The Company estimates its provision for credit losses using a collective (pool) approach for investments with similar risk characteristics, such as collateral and duration of investment. In measuring the CECL provision for investments that share similar characteristics, the Company applies a default rate to the investments for the remaining loan or preferred equity investment hold period. As the Company does not have a significant historical population of loss data on its loan and preferred equity investments, the Company’s default rate utilized for CECL is based on an external historical loss rate for commercial real estate loans.
In addition to analyzing investments as a pool, the Company performs an individual investment assessment of expected credit losses. If it is determined that the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, or a foreclosure is probable, or the Company expects repayment through the sale of the collateral, the Company calculates expected credit losses based on the value of the underlying collateral as of the reporting date. During this review process, if the Company determines that it is probable that it will not be able to collect all amounts due for both principal and interest according to the contractual terms of an investment, that loan or preferred equity investment is not considered fully recoverable and a provision for credit loss is recorded.
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In estimating the value of the underlying collateral when determining if a loan or preferred equity investment is fully recoverable, the Company evaluates estimated future cash flows to be generated from the collateral underlying the investment. The inputs and assumptions utilized to estimate the future cash flows of the underlying collateral are based upon the Company’s evaluation of the operating results, economy, market trends, and other factors, including judgments regarding costs to complete any construction activities, lease-up and occupancy rates, rental rates, and capitalization rates utilized to estimate the projected cash flows at the disposition. The Company may also obtain a third-party valuation which may value the collateral through an “as-is” or “stabilized value” methodology. If upon completion of the valuation the fair value of the underlying collateral securing the investment is less than the net carrying value, the Company records a provision for credit loss on that loan or preferred equity investment. As the investment no longer displays the characteristics that are similar to those of the pool of loans or preferred equity investments, the investment is removed from the CECL collective (pool) analysis described above.
Results of Operations
Year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2020
Revenue
Rental and other property revenues increased $6.7 million, or 262%, to $9.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $2.6 million for the same prior year period. This was due to a $6.5 million increase from the acquisition of eighteen investments in 2021 and a $0.2 million increase from Navigator Villas.
Interest income from loan investments increased $1.4 million, or 45%, to $4.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $3.1 million for the same prior year period primarily due to an increase in the average outstanding balance of The Hartley at Blue Hill in 2021.
Expenses
Property operating expenses increased $2.3 million, or 262%, to $3.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $0.9 million for the same prior year period. This was primarily due to a $2.2 million increase from the acquisition of investments in 2021 and a $0.1 million increase from Navigator Villas. Property NOI margins remained flat at 65.2% of total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. Property NOI margins are computed as total property revenues less property operating expenses, divided by total property revenues.
Property management fees expense increased $0.5 million, or 613%, to $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $0.1 million in the same prior year period. Property management fees incurred are based on property level revenues; an increase in property management fees was due to the increase in rental and other property revenues.
General and administrative expenses increased $1.9 million, or 167%, to $3.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $1.2 million for the same prior year period.
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased $4.0 million, or 215%, to $5.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 as compared to $1.9 million for the same prior year period. This was due to a $4.5 million increase from the acquisition of investments in 2021 partially offset by a $0.5 million decrease from Navigator Villas.
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Other Income and Expense
Other income and expense amounted to net expense of $0.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to net expense of $2.4 million for the same prior year period. This was primarily due to an increase in preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures of $1.1 million, a decrease of $0.3 million in interest expense, and an increase in other income of $0.3 million.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity is a measure of our ability to meet potential cash requirements, both short- and long-term. Our primary short-term liquidity requirements historically have related to (a) our operating expenses and other general business needs, (b) acquisition of properties, (c) committed investments and capital requirements to fund development and renovations at existing properties, (d) ongoing commitments to repay borrowings, including our revolving credit facility and our maturing short-term debt, and (e) distributions to stockholders.
Our ability to access capital on favorable terms as well as to use cash from operations to continue to meet our short-term liquidity needs could be affected by various risks and uncertainties, including the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and other risks detailed in “Risk Factors.”
In 2020, the Company had provided rent deferral payment plans as a result of hardships certain tenants experienced due to the impact of Covid-19, decreasing from 1% in the quarter ended June 30, 2020 to no payment plans in the year ended December 31, 2021. Although the Company could receive tenant requests for rent deferrals in the coming months, the Company does not expect to waive its contractual rights under its lease agreements. Further, while occupancy remains strong at 93.3% as of December 31, 2021, in future periods, the Company may experience reduced levels of tenant retention as well as reduced foot traffic and lease applications from prospective tenants resulting from the impact of Covid-19.
In general, we believe our available cash balances, cash flows from operations, proceeds from our $150 million revolving credit facility dedicated to single family residential home investments, proceeds from future mortgage debt financings for acquisition and/or development projects, and other financing arrangements will be sufficient to fund our liquidity requirements and growth capital for the next 12 months. In general, we expect that our results related to our existing portfolio will improve in future periods as a result of anticipated future investments in and acquisitions of single-family residential properties and build-to-rent development properties. However, there can be no assurance that the worldwide economic disruptions arising from the Covid-19 pandemic will not cause conditions in the lending, capital and other financial markets to deteriorate, nor that our future revenues or access to capital and other sources of funding will not become constrained, which could reduce the amount of liquidity and credit available for use in acquiring and further diversifying our portfolio of Single-Family Properties. We cannot provide any assurances that we will be able to add properties to our portfolio at the anticipated pace, or at all.
We believe we will be able to meet our primary liquidity requirements going forward through, among other sources:
| · | $128.9 million in cash available at December 31, 2021; |
| · | proceeds from our $150 million revolving credit facility dedicated to single family residential investments; |
| · | proceeds from future mortgage debt financings for acquisition and/or development projects; and |
| · | cash generated from operating activities. |
Only 8.0%, or $4.9 million, of our mortgage debt is maturing within twelve months.
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At the current time, we do not anticipate the need to establish any material contingency reserves related to the Covid-19 pandemic, but we continue to assess along with our network of business partners the possible need for such contingencies, whether at the corporate or property level.
As equity capital market conditions permit, we may supplement our capital for short-term liquidity needs with proceeds of potential offerings of common and preferred stock through underwritten offerings, as well as issuance of OP units. Given the significant volatility in the trading price of REIT equities generally associated with the Covid-19 pandemic and our otherwise stable financial condition and liquidity position, we cannot provide assurances that these offerings are a likely source of capital to meet short-term liquidity needs.
Our primary long-term liquidity requirements relate to (a) costs for additional single-family residential home investments (including build-to-rent development properties), (b) repayment of long-term debt and our revolving credit facility, and (c) capital expenditures.
We intend to finance our long-term liquidity requirements with net proceeds of additional issuances of common and preferred stock, our revolving credit facility, as well as future acquisition or project-based borrowings. Our success in meeting these requirements will therefore depend upon our ability to access capital. Further, our ability to access equity capital is dependent upon, among other things, general market conditions for REITs and the capital markets generally, market perceptions about us and our asset class, and current trading prices of our securities, all of which may continue to be adversely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
We may also meet our long-term liquidity needs through borrowings from a number of sources, either at the corporate or project level. We believe our $150 million revolving credit facility will serve as our primary debt source that will continue to enable us to deploy our capital more efficiently and provide capital structure flexibility as we grow our asset base. In addition to restrictive covenants, our credit facility contains material financial covenants. We will continue to monitor the debt markets, including Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and as market conditions permit, access borrowings that are advantageous to us.
If we are unable to obtain financing on favorable terms or at all, we would likely need to curtail our investment activities, including acquisitions and improvements to and developments of, real properties, which could limit our growth prospects. This, in turn, could reduce cash available for distribution to our stockholders and may hinder our ability to raise capital by issuing more securities or borrowing more money. We also may be forced to dispose of assets at inopportune times to maintain our REIT qualification and Investment Company Act exemption.
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
As of December 31, 2021, we held twenty-seven real estate investments, consisting of nineteen consolidated operating investments and eight investments held through preferred equity and loan investments. During the year ended December 31, 2021, net cash provided by operating activities was $8.4 million after net income of $0.3 million was adjusted for the following:
| · | non-cash items of $4.7 million; |
| · | distributions and preferred returns from unconsolidated joint ventures of $1.6 million; and |
| · | an increase in operating assets and liabilities of $1.8 million. |
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2021, net cash used in investing activities was $289.0 million, primarily due to the following:
| · | $254.9 million used in acquiring consolidated real estate investments; |
| · | $39.6 million used for investments in unconsolidated real estate joint venture interests; and |
| · | $1.0 million used on capital expenditures; partially offset by: |
| · | $6.5 million of proceeds from the redemption of unconsolidated real estate joint ventures. |
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Cash Flows from Financing Activities
During the year end December 31, 2021, net cash provided by financing activities was $375.7 million, primarily due to the following:
| · | $385.4 million from changes in Bluerock Homes investment; |
| · | $30.0 million of proceeds from credit facilities; |
| · | capital contributions of $21.9 million from noncontrolling interests; |
| · | net borrowings of $2.6 million on mortgages payable; and |
| · | $0.6 million in increase of distribution payable; partially offset by: |
| · | $63.0 million of repayments on credit facilities; |
| · | $1.2 million increase in deferred financing costs; |
| · | $0.3 million of repayments of our mortgages payable; and |
| · | $0.3 million in distributions paid to our noncontrolling interests. |
$150 Million Revolving Credit Facility
On April 6, 2022, we entered into a $150 million revolving credit facility dedicated to financing future single family residential home investments owned with one of our joint venture partners.
Mortgages Payable
ILE Mortgage Payable
On October 4, 2021, the Company acquired debt held through five separate credit agreements, each of which is secured by the property. Of the $26.8 million principal balance, $7.5 million held through two credit agreements requires monthly payments of principal and interest, while the remaining principal balance of $19.3 million held through three credit agreements has monthly payments that are currently interest-only. The five credit agreements have maturity dates ranging from 2022 to 2026 and bear interest at one-month LIBOR or prime rate + margins ranging from 0.50% to 3.00%, subject to rate floors, and have current interest rates ranging from 3.50% to 4.25% with a weighted average interest rate of 3.78% as of December 31, 2021.
Navigator Villas Mortgage Payable
On December 18, 2019, the Company assumed a mortgage loan with a principal balance of $14.8 million and entered into a supplemental loan of $5.7 million with both loans secured by Navigator Villas. The mortgage loan and supplemental loan bear interest at fixed rates of 4.31% and 5.23%, respectively. The loans mature on June 1, 2028 and require interest-only payments through June 2021 with future monthly payments based on thirty-year amortization. After November 30, 2027, each loan may be prepaid without penalty or yield maintenance.
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Yauger Park Villas Mortgage Payable
On April 14, 2021, the Company assumed a mortgage loan with a principal balance of $10.5 million and entered into a supplemental loan of $4.6 million with both loans secured by Yauger Park Villas. The mortgage loan and supplemental loan bear interest at fixed rates of 4.81% and 4.96%, respectively. The loans mature on April 1, 2026, and require fixed monthly payments based on thirty-year amortization. After December 30, 2025, each loan may be prepaid without penalty or yield maintenance.
Deferred Financing Costs
Costs incurred in obtaining long-term financing and the revolving credit facility are amortized on a straight-line basis to interest expense over the terms of the related financing agreements, as applicable, which approximates the effective interest method. Amortization of deferred financing costs, including the amounts related to the revolving credit facilities, was $1.0 million and $1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Fair Value Adjustments of Debt
The Company records a fair value adjustment based upon the fair value of the loans on the date they were assumed in conjunction with acquisitions. The fair value adjustments are being amortized to interest expense over the remaining life of the loans. Amortization of fair value adjustments was $0.4 million and $0.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Debt Maturities
As of December 31, 2021, contractual principal payments for the five subsequent years and thereafter are as follows (amounts in thousands):
| Year | Total | |||
| 2022 | $ | 4,949 | ||
| 2023 | 1,769 | |||
| 2024 | 3,468 | |||
| 2025 | 1,848 | |||
| 2026 | 31,478 | |||
| Thereafter | 18,595 | |||
| $ | 62,107 | |||
| Add: Unamortized fair value debt adjustment | 1,555 | |||
| Subtract: Deferred financing costs, net | (655 | ) | ||
| Total | $ | 63,007 | ||
The mortgage loans encumbering the Company’s property are nonrecourse, subject to certain exceptions for which the Company would be liable for any resulting losses incurred by the lender. These exceptions generally include fraud or a material misrepresentation, misstatement or omission by the borrower, intentional or grossly negligent conduct by the borrower that harms the property or results in a loss to the lender, filing of a bankruptcy petition by the borrower, either directly or indirectly, and certain environmental liabilities. In addition, upon the occurrence of certain events, such as fraud or filing of a bankruptcy petition by the borrower, the Company or our joint ventures would be liable for the entire outstanding balance of the loan, all interest accrued thereon and certain other costs, including penalties and expenses. The mortgage loans have a period where a prepayment fee or yield maintenance is required.
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Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2021 which consisted of mortgage notes secured by our properties. At December 31, 2021, our estimated future required payments on these obligations were as follows (amounts in thousands):
| Total | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Thereafter | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mortgages Payable (Principal) | $ | 62,107 | $ | 4,949 | $ | 1,769 | $ | 3,468 | $ | 1,848 | $ | 31,478 | $ | 18,595 | ||||||||||||||
| Estimated Interest Payments on Mortgages Payable | 12,361 | 2,620 | 2,459 | 2,391 | 2,243 | 1,375 | 1,273 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 74,468 | $ | 7,569 | $ | 4,228 | $ | 5,859 | $ | 4,091 | $ | 32,853 | $ | 19,868 | ||||||||||||||
Estimated interest payments are based on the stated rates for mortgage notes payable assuming the interest rate in effect for the most recent quarter remains in effect through the respective maturity dates.
Capital Expenditures
Our total capital expenditures for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021 were $1.9 million. We generally incur three types of capital expenditures.
| (1) | Redevelopment and renovation costs are non-recurring capital expenditures for significant projects that are revenue enhancing through unit, such as kitchen remodels, or in some instances, properties may have common area upgrades, such as clubhouse renovations. |
| (2) | Routine capital expenditures are necessary non-revenue generating improvements that extend the useful life of the property and are less frequent in nature, such as roof repairs and asphalt resurfacing. |
| (3) | Normally recurring capital expenditures are necessary non-revenue generating improvements that occur on a regular ongoing basis, such as carpet and appliances. |
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Funds from Operations and Core Funds from Operations Attributable to Common Stockholders and Unitholders
We believe that funds from operations (“FFO”), as defined by the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (“NAREIT”), and core funds from operations (“CFFO”) are important non-GAAP supplemental measures of operating performance for a REIT.
FFO attributable to common stockholders and unitholders is a non-GAAP financial measure that is widely recognized as a measure of REIT operating performance. We consider FFO to be an appropriate supplemental measure of our operating performance as it is based on a net income analysis of property portfolio performance that excludes non-cash items such as depreciation. The historical accounting convention used for real estate assets requires straight-line depreciation of buildings and improvements, which implies that the value of real estate assets diminishes predictably over time. Since real estate values historically rise and fall with market conditions, presentations of operating results for a REIT, using historical accounting for depreciation, could be less informative. We define FFO, consistent with the NAREIT definition, as net income (loss), computed in accordance with GAAP, excluding gains or losses on sales of depreciable real estate property, plus depreciation and amortization of real estate assets, plus impairment write-downs of certain real estate assets and investments in entities where the impairment is directly attributable to decreases in the value of depreciable real estate held by the entity, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. Adjustments for notes receivable, unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures will be calculated to reflect FFO on the same basis.
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CFFO makes certain adjustments to FFO, removing the effect of items that do not reflect ongoing property operations such as acquisition expenses, non-cash interest expense, unrealized gains or losses on derivatives, losses on extinguishment of debt and debt modification costs (includes prepayment penalties incurred and the write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs and fair market value adjustments of assumed debt), one-time weather-related costs, non-cash equity compensation and preferred stock accretion. We do not deduct the accrued portion of the preferred income on our preferred equity investments from FFO to determine CFFO as the income is deemed fully collectible. The accrued portion of the income totaled $2.6 million and $1.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. We believe that CFFO is helpful to investors as a supplemental performance measure because it excludes the effects of certain items which can create significant earnings volatility, but which do not directly relate to our core recurring property operations. As a result, we believe that CFFO can help facilitate comparisons of operating performance between periods and provides a more meaningful predictor of future earnings potential.
Our calculation of CFFO differs from the methodology used for calculating CFFO by certain other REITs and, accordingly, our CFFO may not be comparable to CFFO reported by other REITs. Our management utilizes FFO and CFFO as measures of our operating performance after adjustment for certain non-cash items, such as depreciation and amortization expenses, and acquisition and pursuit costs that are required by GAAP to be expensed but may not necessarily be indicative of current operating performance and that may not accurately compare our operating performance between periods. Furthermore, although FFO and CFFO and other supplemental performance measures are defined in various ways throughout the REIT industry, we also believe that FFO and CFFO may provide us and our stockholders with an additional useful measure to compare our financial performance to certain other REITs.
Neither FFO nor CFFO is equivalent to net income (loss), including net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders, or cash generated from operating activities determined in accordance with GAAP. Furthermore, FFO and CFFO do not represent amounts available for management’s discretionary use because of needed capital replacement or expansion, debt service obligations or other commitments or uncertainties. Neither FFO nor CFFO should be considered as an alternative to net income (loss), including net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders, as an indicator of our operating performance or as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities as a measure of our liquidity.
The results presented in the table below are not directly comparable and should not be considered an indication of our future operating performance.
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to Bluerock Homes | $ | 918 | $ | (694 | ) | |||
| Bluerock Homes’ pro-rata share of: | ||||||||
| Real estate depreciation and amortization | 4,715 | 1,523 | ||||||
| FFO attributable to Bluerock Homes | 5,633 | 829 | ||||||
| Bluerock Homes’ pro-rata share of: | ||||||||
| Non-cash interest expense | 758 | 265 | ||||||
| Non-real estate depreciation and amortization | 185 | 184 | ||||||
| Non-recurring income | (248 | ) | — | |||||
| Non-cash equity compensation | 1,357 | 158 | ||||||
| Provision for credit losses | 47 | 85 | ||||||
| CFFO Attributable to Bluerock Homes | $ | 7,732 | $ | 1,521 | ||||
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization for Real Estate (“EBITDAre”)
NAREIT defines earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization for real estate (“EBITDAre”) (September 2017 White Paper) as net income (loss), computed in accordance with GAAP, before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization expense, and further adjusted for gains and losses from sales of depreciated operating properties, and impairment write-downs of depreciated operating properties. We consider EBITDAre to be an appropriate supplemental measure of our performance because it eliminates depreciation, income taxes, interest and non-recurring items, which permits investors to view income from operations unobscured by non-cash items such as depreciation, amortization, the cost of debt or non-recurring items. EBITDAre is not a recognized measurement under GAAP. Because not all companies use identical calculations, our presentation of EBITDAre may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. Below is a reconciliation of net income attributable to common stockholders to EBITDAre (unaudited and dollars in thousands).
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| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to Bluerock Homes | $ | 918 | $ | (694 | ) | |||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests | (630 | ) | (85 | ) | ||||
| Interest expense, net | 2,915 | 3,193 | ||||||
| Real Estate depreciation and amortization | 5,676 | 1,677 | ||||||
| EBITDAre | $ | 8,879 | $ | 4,091 | ||||
Net Operating Income
We believe that net operating income (“NOI”), is a useful measure of our operating performance. We define NOI as total property revenues less total property operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization and interest. Other REITs may use different methodologies for calculating NOI, and accordingly, our NOI may not be comparable to other REITs. NOI also is a computation made by analysts and investors to measure a real estate company’s operating performance.
We believe that this measure provides an operating perspective not immediately apparent from GAAP operating income or net income. NOI allows us to evaluate the operating performance of our properties because it measures the core operations of property performance by excluding corporate level expenses and other items not related to property operating performance and captures trends in rental housing and property operating expenses.
However, NOI should only be used as a supplemental measure of our financial performance. The following table reflects net loss attributable to common stockholders together with a reconciliation to NOI, as computed in accordance with GAAP for the period presented (amounts in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to Bluerock Homes | $ | 918 | $ | (694 | ) | |||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests: | (630 | ) | (85 | ) | ||||
| Real estate depreciation and amortization | 5,676 | 1,677 | ||||||
| Non-real estate depreciation and amortization | 185 | 184 | ||||||
| Non-cash interest expense | 747 | 266 | ||||||
| Provision for credit losses | 47 | 85 | ||||||
| Property management fees | 551 | 77 | ||||||
| Corporate operating expenses | 3,063 | 1,148 | ||||||
| Other income: | (250 | ) | — | |||||
| Preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures | (1,974 | ) | (839 | ) | ||||
| Interest income from loan investments | (4,452 | ) | (3,077 | ) | ||||
| Total property income | 3,881 | (1,258 | ) | |||||
| Add: Interest expense | 2,168 | 2,927 | ||||||
| Net operating income | $ | 3,881 | $ | 1,669 | ||||
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BUSINESS AND PROPERTIES
Our Company
We are an externally managed REIT formed to assemble a portfolio of infill first-ring suburban single-family rental homes in knowledge-economy and high quality of life growth markets across the United States, targeting middle-market single-family home renters. Our principal business objective is to generate attractive risk-adjusted investment returns by assembling a portfolio of pre-existing single-family rental homes and developing build-to-rent communities.
Our target renter pool includes the large cohort of rental-biased millennials, among others, who are reaching their peak household-formation age, have a bias for renting for lifestyle or flexibility reasons, and/or who do not want or cannot afford the upfront and ongoing financial commitments of home ownership.
Our target markets are generally the knowledge-economy and high quality of life regions of the Sunbelt and the West, which we expect should have healthy long-term demand fundamentals for single-family rentals. In addition, we believe that our moderate initial rent price points will deliver durable income streams with relatively low turnover, and with potential for upside growth over time.
We utilize two primary investment strategies to drive growth in FFO and NAV to maximize returns to our investors:
| · | Scattered-Site Aggregation – Aggregation of single-asset and small portfolios of scattered-site homes at above market unlevered yields relative to private and public market valuations; and |
| · | Build-to-Rent Development – Development of Build-to-Rent communities at attractive, stabilized, unlevered yields. |
In addition, we utilize a number of strategies to improve property performance, including performing value-add renovations, implementing institutional property management approaches and leveraging our technology-aided platform. See “—Growth Strategies.”
We invest primarily through control positions in joint ventures (typically with a 90% economic interest in the joint venture) with a network of established private, regional owner-operators in proprietary, off-market transactions across a broad market footprint, enabling us to execute our strategies across multiple markets and strategies. Where appropriate, we may seek to increase our ownership of the venture to 100%, subsequent to the execution of the initial business plan for each property.
We were formed in 2021 as a Maryland corporation and intend to elect to be taxed as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes beginning with our taxable year ending December 31, 2022.
Our Portfolio
Our portfolio consists of scattered-site single-family homes and build-to-rent communities. We generally target scattered-site single-family homes that are between 15 and 40 years old located in first-ring suburban markets (which are areas within close proximity to downtown amenities, including restaurants and retail shopping) with quality school systems and direct access to large metropolitan areas. Our scattered-site single-family homes, which are non-contiguous and often not always part of a single community or development, are typically a core part of our aggregation strategy and our value-add renovation strategy. We source potential investments in scattered-site single-family homes through a variety of channels, including our existing relationships and those developed by our network, real estate brokers, auctions and marketed portfolio sales. Our build-to-rent communities are typically developed by our partners with expertise in development utilizing capital which we provide in a variety of structures, including through common equity, preferred equity and mezzanine loans. Our build-to-rent communities are typically located in first-ring suburban markets as part of a larger community with other rental homes. These homes are specifically designed to be rented and are typically amenitized with larger floorplans ranging between two and four bedrooms and consist of both attached and detached homes.
As of December 31, 2021, our portfolio consisted of interests in approximately 3,800 homes, comprised of 1,800 operating homes, of which roughly 1,400 and 400 are scattered-site and build-to-rent, respectively, as well as 2,000 additional homes held through preferred equity and mezzanine loan investments, of which 500 are stabilized and 1,500 are under development. As of December 31, 2021, our properties, exclusive of our development properties, were approximately 93% occupied. All properties were leased on twelve month terms. We currently estimate our planned value-add renovations to cost between $25,000 and $35,000 per unit.
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Summary detail of our existing portfolio as of December 31, 2021 is as follows:
| Name | Type | Location | Average Year Built | Ownership Interest | Occupancy | Units | Average Rent | Initial Purchase Date | Purchase Price | Rentable Square Footage | Rentable
Square Foot per Unit |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating Properties | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Build-to-Rent | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Navigator Villas | BTR | Pasco, WA | 2013 | 90 | % | 96.0 | % | 176 | $ | 1,278 | 12/18/2019 | $ | 28,500,000 | 173,444 | 958 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Springtown 2.0 | BTR | Springtown, TX | 2018 | 80 | % | 92.9 | % | 14 | 1,416 | 10/26/2021 | 2,985,000 | 22,456 | 1,604 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wayford at Concord | BTR | Concord, NC | 2019 | 83 | % | 94.7 | % | 150 | 1,936 | 6/4/2021 | 44,437,500 | 216,450 | 1,443 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Yauger Park Villas | BTR | Olympia, WA | 2010 | 95 | % | 98.8 | % | 80 | 2,085 | 4/14/2021 | 24,500,000 | 97,887 | 1,224 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sub-Total | 420 | 100,422,500 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Scattered Site - Clustered | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Axelrod | Scattered | Garland, TX | 1959 | 80 | % | 100.0 | % | 22 | 1,355 | 10/5/2021 | 4,133,390 | 30,988 | 1,409 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| DFW 189 | Scattered | Dallas-Fort Worth, TX | 1962 | 56 | % | 98.4 | % | 189 | 942 | 12/29/2021 | 27,670,000 | 241,774 | 1,279 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Golden Pacific | Scattered | KS / MO | 1977 | 97 | % | 42.9 | % | 7 | 1,432 | 11/23/2021 | 1,213,000 | 10,634 | 1,519 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Granbury | Scattered | Granbury, TX | 2020-2021 | 80 | % | 97.2 | % | 36 | 1,556 | 9/30/2021 | 8,100,000 | 56,150 | 1,560 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ILE(1) | Scattered | TX / SE US | 1990 | 95 | % | 84.3 | % | 279 | 1,544 | 10/4/2021 | 57,139,138 | 468,917 | 1,681 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Indy | Scattered | Indianapolis, IN | 1958 | 60 | % | 86.4 | % | 44 | 836 | 8/12/2021 | 3,785,000 | 52,022 | 1,182 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lubbock | Scattered | Lubbock, TX | 1955 | 80 | % | 86.7 | % | 60 | 975 | 9/24/2021 | 5,600,000 | 69,674 | 1,161 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lubbock 2.0 | Scattered | Lubbock, TX | 1972 | 80 | % | 92.0 | % | 75 | 1,220 | 10/28/2021 | 9,275,000 | 136,112 | 1,815 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lubbock 3.0 | Scattered | Lubbock, TX | 1945 | 80 | % | 95.6 | % | 45 | 988 | 12/8/2021 | 4,574,053 | 49,257 | 1,095 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lynnwood | Scattered | Lubbock, TX | 2005 | 80 | % | 95.0 | % | 20 | 1,005 | 11/16/2021 | 2,448,000 | 27,560 | 1,378 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lynnwood 2.0 | Scattered | Lubbock, TX | 2003 | 80 | % | 100.0 | % | 20 | 987 | 12/1/2021 | 2,490,000 | 26,184 | 1,309 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Springfield | Scattered | Springfield, MO | 2004 | 60 | % | 99.3 | % | 290 | 1,134 | 8/18/2021 | 49,000,000 | 464,180 | 1,601 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Springtown | Clustered | Springtown, TX | 1991 | 80 | % | 87.1 | % | 70 | 1,235 | 9/15/2021 | 9,350,000 | 72,368 | 1,034 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Texarkana | Scattered | Texarkana, TX | 1967 | 80 | % | 75.9 | % | 29 | 1,019 | 9/21/2021 | 3,100,000 | 38,514 | 1,328 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Texas Portfolio 183 | Scattered | Various / TX | 1975 | 80 | % | 92.3 | % | 183 | 1,275 | 12/22/2021 | 28,290,000 | 219,613 | 1,200 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sub-Total | 1,369 | 216,167,581 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating
Properties Sub-Total | 1,789 | 316,590,081 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Pref / Loan Investments Build-to-Rent | Investment Date | Pref/Loan Investment | Total Commitment Amount | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Cottages at Myrtle Beach | BTR | Myrtle Beach, SC | – | – | – | 294 | 1,743 | 9/9/2021 | 9,034,139 | 275,946 | 939 | $ | 17,912,571 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Cottages at Warner Robins | BTR | Warner Robbins, GA | – | – | – | 251 | 1,346 | 12/8/2021 | – | 248,810 | 991 | 13,250,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Cottages of Port St. Lucie | BTR | Port St. Lucie, FL | – | – | – | 286 | 2,133 | 8/26/2021 | 7,259,942 | 269,884 | 944 | 18,785,236 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Hartley at Blue Hill (2) | BTR | Chapel Hill, NC | – | – | – | 414 | 1,599 | 1/23/2019 | 36,000,000 | 390,054 | 942 | 36,000,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The Woods at Forest Hill | BTR | Forest Hill, TX | – | – | – | 76 | 1,625 | 12/20/2021 | 441,841 | 98,648 | 1,298 | 3,299,938 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wayford at Innovation Park | BTR | Charlotte, NC | – | – | – | 210 | 1,994 | 6/17/2021 | – | 316,470 | 1,507 | 13,400,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Willow Park | BTR | Willow Park, TX | – | – | – | 46 | 2,362 | 6/17/2021 | 2,540,000 | 92,000 | 2,000 | 3,837,205 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sub-Total | – | – | – | 1,577 | 55,275,922 | 106,484,950 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Scattered Site / Clustered | Pref Investment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Peak Housing (2) | Scattered | IN / MO / TX | 474 | 918 | 4/12/2021 | 20,319,000 | 502,440 | 1,060 | 20,319,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sub-Total | 474 | 20,319,000 | 20,319,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Pref
/ Loan Investments Sub-Total | 2,051 | 75,594,922 | 126,803,950 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Portfolio | 3,840 | 392,185,003 | $ | 126,803,950 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (1) | The occupancy for ILE excludes 50 down units under renovation. |
| (2) | The Hartley at Blue Hill property was sold on February 28, 2022, and the mezzanine loan provided by the Company was paid off for $34.4 million, which included principal repayment of $31.0 million and accrued interest of $3.4 million. The $5.0 million senior loan provided by the Company, which is secured by a parcel of land adjacent to The Hartley at Blue Hill property, remains outstanding. |
| (3) | Peak Housing consists of our preferred equity investments in a private single-family home REIT. Unit count excludes consolidated operating investment units which are presented separately. |
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Our Target Markets
We focus on Knowledge/Quality markets with strong job growth, expanding populations and favorable quality of life characteristics. These Knowledge/Quality markets are typically non-gateway regions, with access to good healthcare, highly-rated school systems, lower crime rates, robust infrastructure, good affordability and a growing economic base. They are generally anchored by major universities, technology, healthcare, trade, next-generation high value-add manufacturing or government industries as well as right to work laws, growing populations, and strong household formations. Currently we have properties in and around Orlando, Dallas-Fort Worth, Seattle and Charlotte and are targeting acquisitions in and around a variety of markets, including Tampa, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, Colorado Springs, Raleigh, Atlanta, Nashville, Huntsville and Tucson. Within each metropolitan area, we typically focus on first-ring suburban markets, which are areas within close proximity to downtown amenities, including restaurants and retail shopping.
Because employment growth is highly correlated with rental demand, we generally select markets with job growth above the national average. Employment growth levels for certain of our markets where we are targeting growth as compared to the U.S. average are presented below.

In addition, because income growth is highly correlated with ability to deliver rent growth, we select markets with exposure to industries with attractive and growing compensation levels. Average household income growth levels for certain of our markets where we are targeting growth as compared to the U.S. average are presented in the chart below.
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We believe our approach of focusing on Knowledge/Quality markets with employment and income growth should not only contribute to achieving strong rental demand and occupancy but should also enable us to achieve revenue growth to deliver attractive risk-adjusted returns within our portfolio.
Geographically, the majority of our existing portfolio is positioned in the Sunbelt (see map below). According to a study by John Burns Real Estate Consulting conducted in 2021 and a study by the Cooper Center at the University of Virginia published in 2018, the Sunbelt is home to approximately 40% of all U.S. households and is expected to experience average population growth in excess of 10% between 2020 to 2030. Additional existing markets include high-growth areas of the West (excluding California) and other markets with similar attractive demographics as warranted. We believe that the diverse balance of larger and smaller markets within our core footprint, along with a strong current cash flow base and value-add upside, will enable us to deliver attractive investment returns across a full economic cycle.
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We select and continuously evaluate our target markets through an analysis of demographic data at both the market and submarket levels, which may include the following:
| · | Strong Economic Drivers. Economy characterized by growth industries and jobs of the future such as healthcare and technology, signaling near- and long-term employment growth, relatively low housing affordability and low rent-to-income ratios that allow for future rent increases. |
| · | Favorable Business Climate. Regulatory conditions that attract, retain, and foster job growth and new business development including lower tax rates and right-to-work states. |
| · | Robust Infrastructure. Growing economic base driven by the presence of technology centers, major colleges and universities, healthcare, trade, next-generation high value-add manufacturing, government industries, and modern transportation facilities and networks. |
| · | Renter Demographics. The presence of a younger, more educated workforce with a high population of renters by choice. |
| · | High Quality of Life. Areas with abundant recreation, leisure, cultural, and entertainment options, highly rated school systems that appeal to young parents, and plentiful social opportunities including ample recreation and open space, all of which foster population growth and retention. Within our target markets, we focus on submarkets where members of our network have established relationships, transaction history, market knowledge and potential access to off-market investments, as well as an ability to direct property management and leasing operations efficiently. |
Our Network Strategy
We believe the most important elements in successful investing in single-family real estate are the ability to access attractive, proprietary deal flow, deep local market knowledge to underwrite appropriately, as well as operational expertise and infrastructure to provide execution of the operating and value creation strategies.
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For this reason, we invest primarily through controlling positions in joint ventures (typically with a 90% economic interest in the joint venture) with members of our network, representing experienced regional owner-operators across the nation. These relationships provide a wealth of seasoned market knowledge, along with access to a substantial, often proprietary, transaction pipeline, extensive operating infrastructure, and the ability to execute in our target markets without the cost and logistical burdens of maintaining our own local infrastructure across a broad footprint. Benefits of our network strategy include the following:
| · | Force multiplier sourcing effect that provides access to a sizable pool of attractive, off-market investment opportunities; |
| · | Deep intellectual capital and track record of success, enabling us to deliver a knowledge-based underwriting of the transaction; |
| · | Extensive operational infrastructure enabling us to deliver execution across multiple investment strategies and markets, without the cost and logistical burdens of maintaining our own infrastructure for those markets and strategies; |
| · | Substantial capital to invest alongside us, ensuring our partners’ interests are aligned with ours, particularly in terms of delivering returns for our investors; and |
| · | Opportunity to achieve ambitious growth and diversification goals via rapid deployment of capital and elimination of delays establishing a robust on-the-ground presence in each new market we enter. |
The in-house asset management team of our Manager and its affiliate works in tandem with our network members to oversee the implementation of each asset’s business plan, including budgeting, capital expenditures, tenant improvements and financial performance. We believe that our network partners, given their significant co-investment in the projects, provide superior management execution versus third-party fee-only management companies. Notwithstanding the investments of each member of our network, we expect to maintain substantial control over these ventures, including with respect to strategic decision-making.
Our Competitive Strengths
We believe that our investment strategy and operating model distinguishes us from other owners, operators, and acquirors of single-family rental real estate in several important ways.
Our Key Principals. Our team offers significant breadth and depth in real estate operating and investment experience. Our team has successfully sourced, structured, acquired and managed more than 50 million square feet of residential real estate investments in our target markets, totaling approximately $13 billion in value, and bring an average of 30 years’ experience across multiple real estate and credit cycles. We believe this experience will provide a competitive advantage, enabling us to grow the company and generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for our stockholders. Our principals’ competitive strengths include:
| · | Expertise Across Our Target Markets. Our principals have significant experience structuring and investing in properties successfully in our target markets, through multiple financial and real estate investment cycles, providing a breadth and depth of operating and investment experience to help steer our investment strategy wisely; |
| · | Expertise Creating Value Across Our Investment Strategies and Various Capital Structures. Our principals have substantial experience executing transactions and creating value across our value-add and development investment strategies, and across capital structures — equity, preferred equity, and mezzanine — providing substantial flexibility to create value in transactions, subject to qualifying and maintaining our qualification as a REIT; |
| · | Expertise in Corporate and Portfolio Transactions to Create Value. Our principals have executed large corporate and portfolio transactions, including the rollup of assets to create multiple public companies, the creation of multiple asset management platforms, and the purchase of distressed assets and/or companies out of bankruptcy, demonstrating a sophisticated structuring capability and an ability to execute complex capital markets transactions, which experience will assist us in growing the company and delivering attractive risk-adjusted returns to our stockholders; and |
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| · | Expertise in Financing and Structuring Transactions. Our investment team has substantial expertise structuring and financing transactions, enabling us to evaluate and access the most efficient capital structures for our acquisitions. In addition, our investment team has extensive experience structuring development transactions with network partners to capture significant value while minimizing inherent risks and/or guarantees associated with such transactions. |
Our Network. We invest primarily through controlling positions in joint ventures with members of our network, which allows us to draw on the collective relationships and market knowledge and experience of significant private owner-operators in the nation who invest alongside us in transactions, in order to source, underwrite and execute attractive transactions. We believe our network provides us access to a substantial, often proprietary, transaction pipeline, along with extensive infrastructure and ability to execute across our target markets without the cost and logistical burdens associated with maintaining our own infrastructure and pipeline in these markets.
Disciplined “Broad and Deep” Underwriting. By leveraging our network, we are able to execute a rigorous underwriting process, which we believe improves our ability to evaluate risk and create value in our transactions. To begin, our network partners conduct underwriting and due diligence for our transactions, enabling us to leverage intellectual capital and local experience acquired through their years of experience in the market. At the same time, our team of investment professionals implements our disciplined underwriting and due diligence process, with a focus on value relative to other potential opportunities within our target markets. The ability to review investment opportunities broadly (across markets), as well as deeply (within the target market), greatly improves our ability to source and execute attractive transactions for our portfolio.
Scalable Operating Model. Our relationships enable us to tap into what we believe to be the substantial, often proprietary, transaction flow of our network, allowing for rapid deployment of available capital. Our extensive network provides us the ability to scale our operations quickly, enabling us to allocate and reallocate capital across multiple target markets and along multiple strategies, and to invest in or divest of properties rapidly without the time delay associated with building infrastructure across multiple markets, and without burdening us with excessive operating and overhead costs.
Growth Strategies
Our principal business objective is to generate attractive risk-adjusted investment returns by assembling a portfolio of pre-existing single-family rental homes and developing build-to-rent communities. These will be located across a diverse group of growth markets and will target a growing pool of middle-income renters seeking the single-family lifestyle without the upfront and ongoing investments associated with home ownership. By implementing our investment strategies and our institutional-quality management, we expect to be able to achieve sustainable long-term growth in both our FFO and NAV.
Value Creation Execution. We acquire single-family rental properties with potential for long-term value creation for our stockholders. We utilize the following internal and external growth strategies to drive growth in FFO and NAV for our investors:
| · | Scattered-Site Aggregation. Currently, there is a high level of fragmentation in the single-family rental home market. We believe we can generate economies of scale and enable transaction efficiencies by targeting individual or small portfolios of quality, scattered, single-family rental homes with strong and stable cash flows and aggregate them into larger portfolios, which will allow us to reduce per unit costs, including leasing, marketing, insurance and maintenance related costs through increased purchasing power and sharing of resources. We look for middle-market rents that deliver attractive unlevered yields relative to private market portfolio and public market dividend yields. To date, we have acquired scattered-site homes at year one nominal cap rates exceeding 5% and gross rental yields exceeding 9%. We see an opportunity to replicate this strategy across our markets utilizing our network as a force multiplier on the sourcing and execution fronts. |
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| · | Build-to-Rent. We develop build-to-rent communities at attractive stabilized unlevered yields, investing selectively in target markets that we believe will enable us to capture development premiums on completion. We may use a convertible loan or convertible preferred equity structure to provide income during the development stage and/or the ability to capture development premiums at completion by exercising our conversion rights to take ownership. |
| · | Value-Add Renovation. We see significant potential for capital appreciation through renovation of existing assets. Our value-add strategy focuses on working with our local experts to reposition lower-quality, less current assets and drive rent growth and expand margins, increasing NOI and maximizing our return on investment. |
| · | Institutional Property Management / NOI Margin Expansion. We expect to improve margins at our operating properties by deploying institutional management approaches across the portfolio —including professional management, investment in technology platforms, and leveraging economies of scale — to best position the portfolio for optimal rental growth. Through the aggregation of multiple scattered homes, we seek to address operational inefficiencies, revenue management and deferred capital maintenance at scale and to grow underlying cashflow through substantial NOI margin expansion at stabilized properties. We will also provide an aggressive asset management presence, working alongside our network partners to ensure optimal execution of the asset management plan, enabling us to drive rent growth and values. |
| · | Technology-Aided Platform. We have implemented a data warehouse, which provides us with real-time visibility into leasing, inventory, maintenance and renovation metrics, allowing us to quickly react to changes in current operational performance and monitor trends across our portfolio. Further, we believe we will be able to utilize our data warehouse technology as a building block in the design and implementation of a portfolio-wide revenue management system to further drive NOI and margin expansion. In addition, we utilize various PropTech solutions to both acquire and maximize operational efficiency. Operational PropTech solutions include focus on streamlining value-add initiatives, integrating smart-home technology, automating the lease process and providing robust and coordinated maintenance services. |
Harvest and Redeploy Capital Selectively. On an opportunistic basis and subject to compliance with REIT restrictions, we intend to sell properties when we have executed our value creation plans and when we believe the investment has limited additional upside relative to other opportunities. This allows us to harvest profits and reinvest proceeds to maximize stockholder value.
Market and Investment Opportunity
The single-family rental industry has historically been more resilient to economic cycles than the multi-family sector and is currently benefiting from significant industry tailwinds that have accelerated during the pandemic. We believe industry dynamics present a compelling investment opportunity for us, including:
| · | Supply at accessible price points remains extremely tight, with little new affordable rental product coming on-line over the last decade. These supply and affordability gaps have been in place and intensifying since the wind-down of the Great Recession, with rental prices continuing to increase in step with home price appreciation. |
| · | Limited institutional ownership of single-family rental stock, currently estimated to be approximately 2%, creates potential for outsized growth. Our institutionally operated properties benefit from experienced regional owner-operators and a technology-aided platform, delivering not only a competitive market advantage but also operating growth potential that can benefit investors. |
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| · | Demand fundamentals are strong and strengthening further, particularly from rental-biased and debt-burdened millennials now reaching peak single-family house consumption age. We believe that a continued upswing in propensity to rent, coupled with the limited and depleting supply at the middle-income range, signals significant opportunity. |
A. Supply Overview
Large Market Size / Opportunity – 35% of Rentals are Single-Family
There are approximately 128 million total households in the U.S., of which approximately 49 million units, or 38%, are renters. Of these, approximately 13% of total households – or 35% of the rental cohort – rent a single-family residence, which represents approximately 16.5 million total single-family rental homes in the nation.

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New Home Production and Inventory at Low Levels
Housing production relative to population growth has been on the decline since the 1970s. While the 1970s saw housing production at 0.8x population growth, by 2020 the 10-year average housing production had declined to less than 0.4x population growth.

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The trend exacerbated over the last decade as new home production increasingly fell behind population growth, leading to housing inventories that have remained below long-term average levels since the mid-2010s. According to the National Association of Realtors, Federal Reserve Economic Data, and CEA calculations, as of July 2021 housing inventories were at an all-time low, at approximately 50% below the average inventory over the last decade, as illustrated in the chart below.

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Fewer Moderately Priced Homes Being Built, Leading to Disproportionate Decline in Category
Increases in land prices and construction costs, including both labor and materials, have forced new rental construction to target higher-end residential units, which deliver higher margin potentials, which is leading to a disproportionate decline in supply of moderately priced homes. This trend, coupled with the overall low supply of housing, is pushing moderately priced housing out of reach, particularly in growth markets.
The mismatch in supply and demand of housing has deepened the affordability gap as home prices continue to increase. According to S&P Dow Jones Indices via FRED Economic Data, national home prices, as measured by the Case-Schiller Index, have increased by 7%-19% year-over-year every month from September 2020 to June 2021.

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At the same time, affordable housing options are shrinking disproportionally as a result of the same dynamics, both in terms of absolute unit count and as a share of overall available units.

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Vacancies for Workforce and Affordable Housing Significantly Lower Than Luxury Units
While inventory and sales of moderately priced homes have fallen considerably over the past decade, vacancy rates among affordable and workforce rental units have declined to extremely low levels and remain significantly below luxury units. According to Fannie Mae tabulations of CoStar Data, such extremely low vacancy rates signal substantial demand and the undersupply of non-luxury rental product.
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Single-Family Rents Are Rising Faster Than Inflation
According to Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University tabulations of Consumer Price Indexes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mismatches in supply and demand have caused single-family rents to outpace inflation. Notably, effective rent growth for new single-family leases has generally exceeded Core CPI over most of the past 25 years and has delivered an effective hedge against inflation.
Rent Burdened Households on the Rise in the U.S.
Rent-burdened households are on the rise across the U.S., both in absolute number and share. According to the a study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University conducted in 2020, more than 10 million renters (one in four) pay more than half of their income on rent, and nearly half (47%) spend more than the recommended 30% of their income on rent and utilities. According to the US Census Bureau via FRED, many of these renters are priced out of the homeownership market, creating a large renter-by-necessity cohort.
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Significant Near Obsolescence in Existing Single-Family Housing
As of 2019, only 14% of existing single-family housing product was newer than 20 years old, despite demand for modern amenities, flexible floor plans, and updated kitchens/bathrooms. We believe that the relatively mature age of existing single-family rental stock presents a significant market opportunity to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns by providing desirable homes with upgraded amenities through upgrades of existing homes, as well as developing new build-to-rent communities.
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B. Limited Institutional Ownership of Single-Family Rental Stock
Limited Institutional Quality Product
The single-family rental industry is highly fragmented, with the majority of single-family rental homes owned and operated by individual “mom and pop” investors, many of whom may lack the resources and/or infrastructure to deliver an institutional quality product. In the aggregate, institutional ownership of single-family rental homes today represents less than 2% (approximately 300,000 units) of the roughly 16.5 million single-family rental homes in the nation. We see an outsized opportunity for consolidation by institutional investors, who can offer more attractive, more consistent products while leveraging the operational and management efficiencies as well as economies of scale associated with institutional control and ownership.
C. Strong Demand Fundamentals
The Middle Market Renter Is a Large and Attractive Market
In contrast to the majority of our public REIT peers, our rental strategy focuses on moderate home sizes and a more affordable middle-market target rent. According to GlobeSt, our target “workforce-housing” renter cohort makes up about 60% of the total single-family renter pool – larger than the market-rate and affordable housing segments combined – and represents a large, addressable market.
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As of today, the workforce-housing renter comprises approximately 25 million households with a household income of $70,000 to $110,000 and solid, long-term rental home demand. This cohort includes more than seven million renters, at targeted monthly rents of $1,300 to $2,100. These rent levels typically represent approximately 20% to 25% of household income, providing each household with a meaningful cushion to continue paying rent in times of economic hardship.
We expect to target an accessible and attractive price point for the middle-market renter. Our scattered-site and build-to-rent average rental price points should range from $1,000 – $1,500 per month and $1,500 – $2,300 per month, respectively, both with solid rental upside over time. Because middle-market, single-family home renters are more likely to be families who are long-term residents, we also expect lower turnover costs and stable cash flows.
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Homeownership Unaffordability Driving Single-Family Rental Demand
Single-family rental homes have emerged as an attractive financial solution to the affordability constraints associated with home ownership. As the chart below illustrates, for most of the past 20 years, with the limited exception of the years immediately following the Great Recession, renting was significantly more cost-effective than owning.
In addition, according to a survey of 1,160 single-family renters by John Burns Real Estate Consulting conducted in 2021, for the large millennial cohort that is a prime consumer of single-family homes, ownership unaffordability is further exacerbated by high levels of student debt and, for many, an inability to save for a home down payment, all of which contribute to further demand for single-family rentals. In fact, according to reporting by Forbes in February 2021, the largest concentration of student loan borrowers, at roughly half, is in the 25- to 34-year-old millennial cohort, which comprises 14.8 million borrowers with an average of $33,800 in student loan indebtedness.
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Millennials Are Entering Peak Single-Family Housing Consumption Years, Driving Demand
The millennial cohort is continuing to enter the 35 and over age category, which is traditionally the peak for single-family housing demand. Over the 10-year period ending in 2030, the 35-50 age category is expected to grow by approximately 17 million households. However, instead of purchasing homes like their predecessor cohorts, and driven by factors including the increasing unaffordability of single-family homes, the presence of a sizable student loan debt burden, and an attraction to the financial and lifestyle flexibility that defines the rental market, millennials are increasingly choosing single-family rentals instead. According to Pew Research, millennials today own far less real estate than did baby boomers at their age – the homeownership rate at age 31 for millennials stands at 4%, as compared to 32% for baby boomers.
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Single-Family Rentals Have Demonstrated a History of Resilience During Economic Downturns
Historically, single-family rental rates have tended to be relatively resilient during economic shocks. Even in the aftermath of the Great Recession, single-family rental rates in most top U.S. markets remained either unchanged or slightly down from their peak. Similarly, in the aftermath of the Covid-19 recession, single-family rental rates are exhibiting strong performance across the United States, and particularly in our target markets in the Sunbelt, West, Southwest and Texas according to a study by John Burns Real Estate Consulting conducted in 2021.
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Forecasts Signal Healthy Rent Growth for Single-Family Rentals
We expect healthy effective rent growth for new single-family rental leases across our markets and portfolio. U.S. Census Bureau data show a projected increase of 21% in new single-family rental leases through 2024 on average across the United States.
Financing Policy
We intend to use prudent amounts of leverage in connection with our operations. As of December 31, 2021, we have total indebtedness in an amount equal to approximately [ ]% of the fair market value of our real estate investments. Once we reach sufficient scale, we generally expect our total indebtedness to be less than 75% of the fair market value of our real estate investments. However, we are not subject to any limitations on the amount of leverage we may use, and accordingly, the amount of leverage we use may be significantly less or greater than we currently anticipate. Further, during our ramp-up to scale, we expect that our leverage will fluctuate and for periods of time will exceed 75% of the fair market value of our real estate investments as appropriate. For purposes of calculating our leverage, we assume full consolidation of all of our real estate investments, whether or not they would be consolidated under GAAP, include assets we have classified as held for sale, and include any joint venture level indebtedness in our total indebtedness.
Our board of directors will have the authority to change our financing policies at any time and without stockholder approval. If our board of directors changes our policies regarding our use of leverage, we expect that it will consider many factors, including the lending standards of lenders in connection with the financing of single-family residential properties, the leverage ratios of publicly traded REITs with similar investment strategies, the cost of leverage as compared to expected operating net revenues, and general market conditions.
By operating on a leveraged basis, we expect to have more funds available for real estate investments and other purposes than if we operated without leverage, which we believe will allow us to acquire more investments than would otherwise be possible, resulting in a larger and more diversified portfolio. See “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business, Properties and Industry—High levels of debt or increases in interest rates could increase the amount of any future loan payments, which could reduce the cash available for distribution to stockholders” for more information about the risks related to operating on a leveraged basis.
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Approach to Evaluating Potential Investments
We have developed a disciplined approach to evaluating potential investments that combines our experience with an evaluation structure that emphasizes thorough market research, local market knowledge, underwriting discipline, and risk management.
| · | National Market Research. Our investment team continuously and extensively conducts market research to proactively select our target markets. Our investment team is focused on identifying markets that exhibit outsized population and employment growth, among other salient characteristics, including a high quality of life, an intellectual capital base, and a commitment to investments in infrastructure. We utilize real-time market data, leading third-party research, and the deep transactional knowledge and collective experiences of our network. |
| · | Local Market Knowledge. Our breadth and depth of professional relationships, particularly within our network, provides us with access to substantial and often proprietary coveted off-market opportunities within our target markets. Further, we are able to leverage the local market knowledge of our network to fully evaluate not only a particular submarket’s supply and demand fundamentals, but a property’s competitive position from a neighborhood perspective. |
| · | Underwriting Discipline. We follow a disciplined double underwriting process to examine and evaluate a potential investment in terms of its income-producing capacity and prospects for capital appreciation. Our approach begins with an extensive review of the following: (1) property fundamentals, such as location, expense structure, occupancy, construction quality and deferred maintenance; (2) capital markets fundamentals, including cap rates, debt markets and future capital flows; and (3) market fundamentals, such as rental rates, concession and occupancy levels at comparable properties, along with projected product delivery and absorption rates. We will then utilize our double underwriting approach to verify and refine all assumptions provided by leveraging the local market knowledge and expertise of members of our network. Only those real estate assets meeting our investment criteria will be accepted for inclusion in our portfolio. |
| · | Risk Management. Risk management is a fundamental principle in the construction of our portfolio and in the management of each investment. Prior to the purchase of any individual asset or portfolio, our investment team will develop a ‘360-degree’ asset-level business strategy. The business strategy consists of a detailed forecast of the action items to be taken and the capital needed to achieve the anticipated returns. We regularly review asset-level business strategies to anticipate changes or opportunities in the market during a given phase of a real estate cycle. In addition, we conduct extensive property level diligence leveraging our joint venture partners and third-party experts, including reviewing title and performing physical inspections. |
When evaluating potential acquisitions and dispositions, we generally consider a variety of factors, including both market-level factors and property-level factors. Market-level factors include: income levels and employment growth trends in the relevant market; employment, household growth and net migration of the relevant market’s population; and barriers to entry that would limit competition (zoning laws, building permit availability, supply of undeveloped or developable real estate and local building costs and construction costs). Property-level factors include: the location, construction quality, condition and design of the property; the current and projected cash flow of the property and the ability to increase cash flow; the potential for capital appreciation of the property; purchase price relative to the replacement cost of the property; the potential for rent increases; the potential for economic growth and the tax and regulatory environment of the community in which the property is located; the occupancy and demand by residents for properties of a similar type in the vicinity (the overall market and submarket); the prospects for liquidity through sale, financing or refinancing of the property; the benefits of integration into existing operations; purchase prices and yields of available existing stabilized properties, if any; competition from existing properties and properties under development and the potential for the construction of new properties in the area; and potential for opportunistic selling based on demand and price of high quality assets, including condominium conversions.
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While our pace of acquisition is dependent on a variety of factors, including availability of capital, we believe the infrastructure provided by our manager and our network provides us with the ability to achieve an average acquisition pace of 500 to 1,000 homes per month. Newly acquired homes are generally rent-ready within 75 days from acquisition, although the timing associated with this process will vary based on a number of factors, including location, acquisition channel, construction quality and design of the property, whether the property was vacant when acquired, and the condition of the property at acquisition. Such factors can also result in significant variance in the costs associated with the preparation of newly acquired homes for rental. The cost associated with the preparation of newly acquired homes, in the Company’s experience, has historically ranged from $0 to $20,000 per unit, with an average cost of $500 to $1,000 per unit, although such costs are subject to a variety of factors out of the Company’s control and which are subject to change, including the cost of labor and cost of materials. In addition, we believe our rigorous underwriting process for the evaluation of potential investments will enable us to utilize our value-add renovation strategy to cost-effectively maximize the income-producing capacity and potential for capital appreciation of our investments.
Property Management and Leasing
The day-to-day aspects of property management and leasing are generally conducted by our joint-venture partners or third-party managers with extensive local experience, with oversight to be performed by our Manager’s asset management team. We believe this approach maximizes efficiencies and allows us to leverage local expertise. With respect to potential tenants, our property managers perform a thorough underwriting process tailored to the specific property, in accordance with local market practice and local, state and federal regulations. The typical application and evaluation process includes obtaining appropriate identification, a thorough evaluation of credit history and household income, and a review of the applicant’s rental and other payment history, and may include a background check for criminal activity for all proposed occupants over the age of 18. We also generally require a minimum income-to-rent ratio, and seek tenants with household income that exceeds the median household income of the market in which the property is located. Many additional factors are also taken into consideration during the prospective tenant evaluation process, which may include household size and tenure at current job.
Our Environmental, Social and Governance Policies
Environmental: Improvements with the Environment in Mind. In keeping with Bluerock Homes’ Environmental Sustainability Policy, we undertake a variety of environmental sustainability initiatives, including the installation of energy- and water-conserving fixtures at many of our upgraded properties. Our value-add investment model generates a continually-replenishing opportunity for us to improve the environmental impact of older, less sustainable properties throughout the U.S., while our ground-up, build-to-rent developments incorporate environmentally sound principles from inception. Our due diligence process incorporates evaluation of environmental impacts, which are factored into our projections for acquisition or investment, affording us the functional and financial flexibility to develop or retrofit homes to operate more responsibly in a changing environment.
Social: Social Responsibility. Consistent with Bluerock Homes’ Human Rights Policy, we strive to respect and promote all human rights, consistent with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. We maintain a diverse board of directors, both by ethnicity and gender, and remain committed to ensuring the preservation of human rights in our relationships with our employees, partners and tenants. We are very pleased to report that our most recent engagement survey showed that 87% of the employees of Bluerock Real Estate and its affiliates are proud to work for the Bluerock family of companies.
In the creation of our portfolio, we are especially proud that we are able to address a critical and growing need for quality, well-managed and affordable homes in desirable communities, striving to demonstrate the possibility of embracing both people and profits. As we discuss below, according to a study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University conducted in 2020, rent-burdened households are on the rise across the U.S., with more than 10 million renters (one in four) paying more than half of their income on rent and nearly half spending more than the recommended 30% of income on rent and utilities. Through our focus on the middle-income renter with our scattered-site investment strategy, we are seeking to deliver a supply of affordable, well-maintained, single-family housing options, both for renters by choice as well as by necessity.
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Governance: Corporate Governance. We have established a governance framework that fosters effective stewardship of investor and shareholder capital, promotes an ethical and transparent approach to doing business, and encourages board diversity. We are committed to operating our business under strong and accountable corporate governance practices and have structured our corporate governance in a manner that we believe aligns our interests with those of our stockholders. Key attributes of our corporate governance structure are expected to include the following:
| · | Majority of Board Is Expected To Be Independent. Four of the five members of our board of directors are expected to be independent for purposes of the NYSE American corporate governance listing standards and Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. |
| · | Board of Directors Will Not Be Staggered. Each of our directors will be subject to re-election annually. |
| · | Lead Independent Director. Our lead independent director structure will promote strong, independent oversight of our management and affairs. |
| · | Fully Independent Key Board Committees. We expect to have fully independent Audit, Compensation and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committees. |
| · | Commitment to Board Diversity. Of the five expected members of our board of directors, one is female and four self-identify as an ethnic minority. |
| · | Amended Code of Business Conduct and Ethics. Our directors, officers and employees will be subject to our Amended Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, fostering the highest standards of ethics and conduct in all aspects of our business. |
| · | Stock Ownership Guidelines. To better align the interests of the Company’s directors and executive officers with those of its stockholders, our Stock Ownership Guidelines will require executive officers to maintain specified minimum levels of ownership in our common stock, ranging (depending on position) from $[ ] to $[ ]. Our Stock Ownership Guidelines will further require our independent directors to own shares of our common stock valued at a minimum of three times their annual cash retainer for service on the board of directors. |
| · | Anti-Hedging Policy. Our insider trading policy will expressly prohibit our directors, officers and employees from engaging in certain hedging transactions with respect to any Bluerock Homes securities at any time. |
| · | Pledging Policy. Our Pledging Policy will prohibit our directors and executive officers from pledging, or otherwise using as collateral to secure any loan or other obligation, any Bluerock Homes securities that he or she is required to hold pursuant to our Stock Ownership Guidelines. |
| · | Clawback Policy. Our Clawback Policy will provide for the possible recoupment from our Manager of Incentive Fees in the event of an accounting restatement of our financial statements due to our material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirements under the securities laws (other than due to a change in applicable accounting methods, rules or interpretations). |
| · | We Value Stockholder Input. We will conduct regular and active stockholder engagement. |
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Regulations
Our investments are subject to various federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations, including, among other things, zoning regulations, land use controls, environmental controls relating to air and water quality, noise pollution and indirect environmental impacts such as increased motor vehicle activity. We believe that we have all permits and approvals necessary under current law to operate our investments.
Environmental
As an owner of real estate, we are subject to various environmental laws of federal, state and local governments. Compliance with existing laws has not had a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations, and management does not believe it will have such an impact in the future. However, we cannot predict the impact of unforeseen environmental contingencies or new or changed laws or regulations on properties in which we hold an interest, or on properties that may be acquired directly or indirectly in the future.
Human Capital
We will have no employees and we will rely on the employees of our Manager and its affiliates to conduct our operations. In order to attract and retain high performing individuals, our Manager and its affiliates will be committed to partnering with its employees to provide opportunities for their professional development and promote their well-being. To that end, our Manager or its affiliates will undertake various initiatives, including the following:
| · | implementing an Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance Initiative to codify and disclose its commitment to good corporate citizenship, including the appointment of an internal corporate responsibility committee in support of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, health and safety, corporate social responsibility, corporate governance, and other public policy matters; |
| · | providing department-specific training, access to online training seminars and opportunities to participate in industry conferences; |
| · | providing annual reviews and regular feedback to assist in employee development and providing opportunities for employees to provide suggestions to management and safely register complaints; |
| · | providing family leave, for example, for the birth or adoption of a child, as well as sick leave; |
| · | focusing on creating a workplace that values employee health and safety; |
| · | committing to the full inclusion of all qualified employees and applicants and providing equal employment opportunities to all persons, in accordance with the principles and requirements of the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission and the principles and requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act; and |
| · | recognizing the importance and contributions of a diverse workforce, with an appreciation for the unique perspectives and insights offered by diverse backgrounds. |
Legal Proceedings
We are not party to, and none of our properties are subject to, any material pending legal proceeding.
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OUR MANAGER AND MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
Our Manager
We will be externally managed and advised by our Manager, pursuant to a Management Agreement. See “—The Management Agreement.” Our Manager will be primarily responsible for managing our day-to-day business affairs and assets and implementing our investment strategy, subject to the directives and supervision of our board of directors. Our Manager will maintain a contractual as opposed to a fiduciary relationship with us. Our Manager will conduct our operations and manage our portfolio of real estate investments. We will have no paid employees.
The following table and biographical descriptions set forth certain information with respect to the individuals who we expect to serve as the senior officers of our Manager:
|
Name |
Age* |
Position(s) | ||
| R. Ramin Kamfar | 58 | Chief Executive Officer | ||
| Jordan Ruddy | 59 | President | ||
| Ryan S. MacDonald | 39 | Chief Investment Officer | ||
| James G. Babb, III | 57 | Chief Strategy Officer | ||
| Christopher J. Vohs | 46 | Chief Financial Officer | ||
| Michael DiFranco | 57 | Executive Vice President, Operations | ||
| Steven Siptrott | 36 | Managing Director, Head of Transactions | ||
| Jason Emala | 43 | Chief Legal Officer and Secretary |
*As of April 22, 2022.
R. Ramin Kamfar, Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Kamfar has served as Chairman of the board of directors and Chief Executive Officer of Bluerock Residential since August 2008, and also served as its President from April 2014 until October 2017. Mr. Kamfar also served as Chief Executive Officer of BRG Manager, LLC, the former manager of Bluerock Residential, from August 2008 to February 2013. In addition, Mr. Kamfar has served as Chairman of the board of trustees of Bluerock Total Income + Real Estate Fund, a closed-end interval fund organized by Bluerock, since 2012 and will serve as Chairman of the board of directors of Bluerock Industrial Growth REIT, Inc. and Chief Executive Officer of its external manager, Bluerock Industrial Manager, LLC upon the completion of the Distribution. Mr. Kamfar is the Founder and has also served as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bluerock since 2002. Mr. Kamfar has approximately 30 years of experience in various aspects of real estate, private equity, and investment banking. From 1988 to 1993, Mr. Kamfar worked as an investment banker at Lehman Brothers Inc., New York, New York, where he specialized in mergers and acquisitions and corporate finance. From 1993 to 2002, Mr. Kamfar built a startup into a leading public company in the “fast casual” market now known as Einstein Noah Restaurant Group, Inc. Mr. Kamfar received an M.B.A. degree with distinction in Finance from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and a B.S. degree with distinction in Finance from the University of Maryland, College Park.
Jordan B. Ruddy, President. Mr. Ruddy has served as Chief Operating Officer and President of Bluerock Residential since August 2008, and also served as the President of BRG Manager, LLC, the former manager of Bluerock Residential, from February 2013 to October 2017. In addition, Mr. Ruddy has served as President of Bluerock Total Income+ Real Estate Fund, as well co-portfolio manager of its adviser Bluerock Fund Advisor since October 2013 and will serve as President of Bluerock Industrial Growth REIT, Inc. and its external manager, Bluerock Industrial Manager, LLC upon the completion of the Distribution. Mr. Ruddy joined Bluerock in 2002 and has continuously served in various senior management capacities for it and its affiliates. Mr. Ruddy has approximately 30 years of experience in real estate acquisitions, financings, management and dispositions. Prior to joining Bluerock, Mr. Ruddy served as a real estate investment banker at Banc of America Securities LLC and Smith Barney Inc., as well as Vice President of Amerimar Enterprises, a real estate company specializing in value-added investments nationwide, where he managed acquisitions, financings, leasing, asset management and dispositions involving over 1.5 million square feet of commercial and multifamily real estate. Mr. Ruddy received an M.B.A. degree in Finance and Real Estate from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and a B.S. degree with high honors in Economics from the London School of Economics.
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Ryan S. MacDonald, Chief Investment Officer. Mr. MacDonald has served as Bluerock Residential’s Chief Investment Officer since January 2021 and as its Chief Acquisitions Officer from October 2017 until January 2021. In addition, Mr. MacDonald will serve as Chief Investment Officer of Bluerock Industrial Growth REIT, Inc. and its external manager, Bluerock Industrial Manager, LLC upon the completion of the Distribution. Mr. MacDonald joined Bluerock in 2008 and has continuously served in various senior acquisition and disposition capacities. To date, with Bluerock, Mr. MacDonald has been involved with real estate transactions with an aggregate value of approximately $6.4 billion. Prior to joining Bluerock, Mr. MacDonald was an Analyst for PNC Realty Investors (formerly Mercantile Real Estate Advisors), where he served as part of an investment team that made more than $1.2 billion in investments within all tranches of the capital structure. Mr. MacDonald received a B.A. in Economics from the University of Maryland, College Park.
James G. Babb, III, Chief Strategy Officer. Mr. Babb has served as Chief Strategy Officer of Bluerock Residential since January 2021, and previously served as its Chief Investment Officer from July 2008 until November 2013 and from October 2017 until January 2021. Mr. Babb also previously served as Chief Investment Officer of BRG Manager, LLC from November 2013 until October 2017, as a director of Bluerock Residential until April 2014, as the President of Bluerock Residential from July 2008 until August 2012, and as the President of BRG Manager, LLC, the former manager to Bluerock Residential, from July 2008 until February 2013. In addition, Mr. Babb will serve as Chief Strategy Officer of Bluerock Industrial Growth REIT, Inc. and its external manager, Bluerock Industrial Manager, LLC upon the completion of the Distribution. Mr. Babb joined Bluerock in 2007 and served as its Chief Investment Officer through October 2017, and as a Trustee of Bluerock Total Income + Real Estate Fund from 2012 until November 2019. He has been involved exclusively in real estate acquisition, management, financing and dispositions for approximately 30 years. From 1992 to August 2003, Mr. Babb helped lead the residential and office acquisitions initiatives for Starwood Capital Group, or Starwood Capital. Starwood Capital was formed in 1992 and during his tenure raised and invested funds on behalf of institutional investors through seven private real estate funds, which in the aggregate ultimately invested approximately $8 billion in approximately 250 separate transactions and was also active in Starwood Capital’s efforts to expand its platform to invest in Europe. From August 2003 to July 2007, Mr. Babb founded Bluepoint Capital, LLC, and a private real estate investment company focused on the acquisition, development and/or redevelopment of residential and commercial properties. Mr. Babb received a B.A. degree in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Christopher J. Vohs, Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Vohs has served as Chief Financial Officer of Bluerock Residential since October 2017. In addition, Mr. Vohs will serve as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Bluerock Industrial Growth REIT, Inc. and its external manager, Bluerock Industrial Manager, LLC upon the completion of the Distribution. Mr. Vohs joined Bluerock in July 2010 and has continuously served in various senior accounting and financial capacities for it and its affiliates, including as Bluerock’s Chief Accounting Officer from July 2010 until October 2017. Prior to joining Bluerock, Mr. Vohs served as Corporate Controller for Roberts Realty Investors, Inc., a public multifamily REIT based in Atlanta, Georgia, from March 2009 to July 2010. From October 2004 to March 2009, Mr. Vohs worked at Pulte Homes, a nationwide builder of single-family homes, in various financial roles, including as Internal Audit Manager & Asset Manager and later as Vice President of Finance for Pulte’s Orlando and Southeast Florida operations. From January 1999 to October 2004, Mr. Vohs worked as an Audit Manager for Deloitte & Touche, an international professional services firm, where he earned his CPA certification. Mr. Vohs received his B.A. degree in Accounting from Michigan State University.
Michael DiFranco, Executive Vice President, Operations. Mr. DiFranco has served as Executive Vice President, Operations of Bluerock Residential since November 2018, with responsibility for the operational and financial performance of its multi-family housing portfolio. Previously, from 2005 to 2016, Mr. DiFranco held several roles of increasing responsibilities with Apartment & Investment Management Company (NYSE: AIV), including serving four years as Senior Vice President of Financial Operations. From 2016 to 2018, Mr. DiFranco served as Senior Vice President of Financial Operations with The Irvine Company Apartment Communities, overseeing Revenue Management, Business Intelligence and Portfolio Management. Mr. DiFranco received a B.A. in Business from Texas A&M University, College Station, an M.B.A. from The University of Texas at Austin, and an M.S. in Information Systems from The University of Colorado, Denver.
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Steven Siptrott, Managing Director, Head of Transactions. Mr. Siptrott has served as a Managing Director and Head of Transactions of Bluerock Residential since January 2020 and as Vice President – Acquisitions from July 2017 to January 2020. In addition, Mr. Siptrott will serve as Managing Director and Head of Transactions of Bluerock Industrial Growth REIT, Inc. and its external manager, Bluerock Industrial Manager, LLC upon the completion of the Distribution. Mr. Siptrott rejoined Bluerock in July 2017 from Jones Lang Lasalle where Mr. Siptrott was a Senior Vice President from May 2015 to July 2017. Prior to Jones Lang Lasalle, Mr. Siptrott was a Vice President at Bluerock from November 2012 to May 2015. To date, Mr. Siptrott has been involved with real estate transactions with an aggregate value of approximately $10 billion, including transactions relating to over 70 million square feet of industrial real estate valued at approximately $6.5 billion. Prior to joining Bluerock in 2012, Mr. Siptrott held acquisitions, asset management and portfolio management roles at both LaSalle Investment Management and The Townsend Group. Mr. Siptrott received a B.A. in Economics from the University of Chicago.
Jason Emala, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary. Mr. Emala has served as Secretary of Bluerock Total Income+ Real Estate Fund, as well as General Counsel of both Bluerock Capital Markets and Bluerock Asset Management since May 2018. In addition, Mr. Emala will serve as Chief Legal Officer and Secretary of Bluerock Industrial Growth REIT, Inc. and its external manager, Bluerock Industrial Manager, LLC upon the completion of the Distribution. Prior to joining Bluerock in May 2018, Mr. Emala held senior legal positions at a number of sponsors/broker-dealers in the alternative investment space, including Cantor Fitzgerald from June 2016 to May 2018. Prior to these roles, Mr. Emala was an associate at international law firms White & Case, LLP and Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP. Mr. Emala earned a B.S. in Finance from the University of Maryland, College Park, a J.D., with honors, from the George Washington University Law School and an LLM in Securities and Financial Regulation from the Georgetown University Law Center.
Bluerock Real Estate
Our Manager will be an affiliate of Bluerock Real Estate, L.L.C. (together with its affiliates, “Bluerock”), a leading institutional alternative asset manager based in New York with regional offices across the United States. Bluerock principals have a collective 100+ years of investing experience with more than $48 billion in real estate and capital markets experience and manage multiple well-recognized real estate private and public company platforms, including the successful seeding, public listing and operation of Bluerock Residential. Bluerock has over $11.5 billion in acquired and managed assets.
Management Agreement
We, the Operating Partnership and our Manager will be parties to a Management Agreement (the “Management Agreement”). In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, the Bluerock Residential board of directors received an opinion from Robert A. Stanger & Company, Inc. that the terms of the Management Agreement are fair, from a financial point of view, to Bluerock Homes, and after consideration of this opinion and other documents and presentations, the non-management directors authorized Bluerock Homes to enter into the Management Agreement. The Management Agreement will require our Manager to manage our business affairs in conformity with our investment guidelines and other policies that are approved and monitored by our board of directors. Our Manager’s role as Manager will be under the supervision and direction of our board of directors. Our Manager will not manage or advise any other entities and will not actively seek new management or advisory clients, although it will not be prohibited from doing so by the Management Agreement.
Management Services
Our Manager will be responsible for, among other things, (i) the selection, purchase and sale of our portfolio investments, (ii) our financing activities, and (iii) providing us with advisory services. Our Manager will be responsible for our day-to-day operations and will perform (or will cause to be performed) such services and activities relating to our investments and operations as may be appropriate, which may include, without limitation, the following:
| (1) | serving as our consultant with respect to the periodic review of the investment guidelines and other parameters for our investments, financing activities and operations, any modification to which will be approved by the board of directors (including a majority of the independent directors); |
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| (2) | investigating, analyzing, and selecting possible investment opportunities and acquiring, financing, retaining, selling, restructuring, exchanging or disposing of investments consistent with our investment guidelines; |
| (3) | with respect to prospective investment transactions and financing transactions, conducting negotiations (including negotiation of definitive agreements) on our behalf with sellers, purchasers, and brokers and, if applicable, their respective agents and representatives; |
| (4) | effecting any private placement of interest in the Operating Partnership, tenancy-in-common or other interests in investments as may be approved by the board of directors; |
| (5) | engaging and supervising, on our behalf and at our expense, independent contractors that provide investment banking, securities brokerage, mortgage brokerage, real estate brokerage, other financial services, due diligence services, underwriting review services, legal and accounting services, and all other services (including transfer agent and registrar services) as may be required relating to our operations and actual or potential investments, investment transactions or financing transactions; |
| (6) | coordinating and managing operations of any joint venture or co-investment interests held by us and conducting all matters with our joint venture or co-investment partners; |
| (7) | providing executive and administrative personnel, office space and office services required in rendering services to us; |
| (8) | administering the day-to-day operations and performing and supervising the performance of such other administrative functions necessary to our management as may be agreed upon by our Manager and the board of directors, including, without limitation, the collection of revenues and the payment of our debts and obligations and maintenance of appropriate computer services to perform such administrative functions; |
| (9) | communicating on our behalf with the holders of any of our or the Operating Partnership’s equity or debt securities as required to satisfy the reporting and other requirements of any governmental bodies or agencies or trading markets and to maintain effective relations with such holders; |
| (10) | counseling the board of directors and us in connection with policy decisions to be made by the board of directors; |
| (11) | evaluating and recommending to the board of directors hedging strategies and engaging in hedging activities on our behalf, consistent with such strategies as so modified from time to time, our qualification as a REIT and with our investment guidelines; |
| (12) | counseling the board of directors and us regarding the qualification and maintenance of our qualification as a REIT and monitoring compliance with the various REIT qualification tests and other rules set out in the Code and Treasury Regulations thereunder and using commercially reasonable efforts to cause us to continue to qualify for taxation as a REIT; |
| (13) | counseling us regarding the maintenance of our exemption from the status of an investment company required to register under the Investment Company Act, monitoring our compliance with the requirements for maintaining such exemption and using commercially reasonable efforts to cause us to maintain such exemption from such status; |
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| (14) | furnishing reports and statistical and economic research to us regarding our activities and services performed for us by our Manager, including reports to the board of directors with respect to potential conflicts of interest involving our Manager or any of its affiliates; |
| (15) | monitoring the operating performance of our investments and providing periodic reports with respect thereto to the board of directors, including comparative information with respect to such operating performance and budgeted or projected operating results; |
| (16) | investing and reinvesting any of our moneys and securities (including investing in short-term investments pending investment in other investments, payment of fees, costs and expenses, or payments of dividends or distributions to our stockholders and the Operating Partnership’s partners) and advising us regarding our company’s capital structure and capital raising; |
| (17) | causing us to retain qualified accountants and legal counsel, as applicable, to assist us in developing appropriate accounting procedures and systems, internal controls and other compliance procedures and testing systems with respect to financial reporting obligations and compliance with the provisions of the Code applicable to REITs and, if applicable, taxable REIT subsidiaries, and to conduct quarterly compliance reviews with respect thereto; |
| (18) | assisting us in qualifying to do business in all applicable jurisdictions and to obtain and maintain all appropriate licenses; |
| (19) | assisting us in complying with all regulatory requirements applicable to us in respect of our business activities, including preparing or causing to be prepared all financial statements required under applicable regulations and contractual undertakings and all reports and documents, if any, required under the Exchange Act or the Securities Act, or by the applicable Securities Exchange; |
| (20) | assisting us in taking all necessary action to enable us to make required tax filings and reports, including soliciting stockholders for required information to the extent required by the provisions of the Code applicable to REITs; |
| (21) | handling and resolving all claims, disputes or controversies (including all litigation, arbitration, settlement or other proceedings or negotiations) in which we may be involved or to which we may be subject arising out of our day-to-day operations (other than with our Manager or its affiliates), subject to such limitations or parameters as may be imposed from time to time by the Board; |
| (22) | using commercially reasonable efforts to cause expenses incurred by us or on our company’s behalf to be commercially reasonable or commercially customary and within any budgeted parameters or expense guidelines set by the board of directors from time to time; |
| (23) | serving as our consultant with respect to decisions regarding any of its financings, hedging activities, borrowings or joint venture arrangements undertaken by us, including (i) assisting us in developing criteria for debt and equity financing that is specifically tailored to our investment objectives, and (ii) advising us with respect to obtaining appropriate financing for our investments; |
| (24) | arranging marketing materials, advertising, industry group activities (such as conference participations and industry organization memberships) and other promotional efforts designed to promote our business; |
| (25) | performing such other services as may be required from time to time for management and other activities relating to our assets and business as our board of directors shall reasonably request or our Manager shall deem appropriate under the particular circumstances; and |
| (26) | using commercially reasonable efforts to cause us to comply with all applicable laws. |
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Liability and Indemnification
Pursuant to the Management Agreement, our Manager will not assume any responsibility other than to render the services called for thereunder in good faith and will not be responsible for any action of our board of directors in following or declining to follow its advice or recommendations. Our Manager will maintain a contractual as opposed to a fiduciary relationship with us (however, to the extent that officers of our Manager also serve as our officers, such officers will owe us duties under Maryland law in their capacity as our officers, which may include the duty to exercise reasonable care in the performance of such officers’ responsibilities, as well as the duties of loyalty, good faith and candid disclosure). Under the terms of the Management Agreement, our Manager, its officers, members, managers, directors, personnel, affiliates and any person providing sub-advisory services to our Manager will not be liable to us, our stockholders, partners, members or other holders of equity interests of us for acts or omissions performed in accordance with and pursuant to the Management Agreement, except because of acts or omissions constituting bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of their duties under the Management Agreement as determined by a final non-appealable order of a court of competent jurisdiction.
We will agree to indemnify and hold harmless our Manager, its officers, members, managers, directors, personnel, any person controlling or controlled by our Manager and any person providing sub-advisory services to our Manager with respect to all expenses, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, charges and claims arising from acts or omissions of such indemnified party not constituting bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of duties, performed in good faith in accordance with and pursuant to the Management Agreement as determined by a final, non-appealable order of a court of competent jurisdiction, or those incurred in connection with our Manager’s proper release of our money or other property, as set forth in the Management Agreement. Additionally, we will agree to advance funds to any of the indemnified parties for legal fees and other costs and expenses incurred as a result of any claim, suit, action or proceeding for which indemnification is sought, provided that such indemnified party undertakes to repay the advanced funds to us in the event it is ultimately determined that indemnification is not appropriate. Our Manager will agree to indemnify and hold harmless us, our directors and officers, personnel, agents and affiliates with respect to all expenses, losses, damages, liabilities, demands, charges and claims arising from acts or omissions of our Manager constituting bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its duties under the Management Agreement or any claims by our Manager’s personnel relating to the terms and conditions of their employment by our Manager. Our Manager will carry errors and omissions and other customary insurance naming us and our Operating Partnership as additional insureds.
Management Team
Pursuant to the terms of the Management Agreement, our Manager will be required to provide us with our management team, including a president, chief financial officer and secretary, along with appropriate support personnel, to provide the management services to be provided by our Manager to us. None of the officers or employees of our Manager or its affiliates will be dedicated exclusively to us.
Our Manager will be required to refrain from any action that, in its sole judgment made in good faith, (1) is not in compliance with the investment guidelines, (2) would adversely and materially affect our qualification as a REIT or the Operating Partnership as a partnership under the Code or our status as an entity intended to be exempted or excluded from investment company status under the Investment Company Act or (3) would conflict with or violate any law, rule or regulation of any governmental body or agency having jurisdiction over us or of any securities exchange on which our securities are listed or that would otherwise not be permitted by our charter or bylaws. If our Manager is ordered to take any action by our board of directors, our Manager will promptly notify the board of directors if it is our Manager’s judgment that such action would adversely and materially affect such status or conflict with or violate any such law, rule or regulation or our charter or bylaws.
Term
The initial term of the Management Agreement will expire on [ ], 2023 (the first anniversary of the Distribution Date) and will be automatically renewed for a one-year term on each anniversary date thereafter unless earlier terminated or not renewed as described below. We may decline to renew the Management Agreement upon the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of our independent directors that (1) there has been unsatisfactory performance by our Manager that is materially detrimental to us or (2) the Base Management Fee and Incentive Fee (each as defined below) payable to our Manager are not, taken as a whole, in accordance with then-current market rates charged by asset management companies rendering services similar to those rendered by our Manager, subject to our Manager’s right to prevent such non-renewal by accepting a reduction of the fees agreed to by at least two-thirds of our independent directors. We must provide 180 days’ notice prior to the end of the term, as renewed, of any such non-renewal. In the event of such non-renewal, the Termination Fee set forth below would be payable.
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Our Manager may decline to renew the Management Agreement upon 180 days’ notice prior to the end of the term, as renewed, in which case no Termination Fee would be payable.
Termination for Cause
We may also terminate the Management Agreement at any time, including during the initial term, without the payment of the Termination Fee, upon 30 days’ prior written notice for cause, which is defined as:
| · | our Manager, its agents or assignees breaches any material provision of the Management Agreement and such breach continues for a period of 30 days after written notice thereof, subject to a cure period; |
| · | there is the commencement of any proceeding relating to our Manager’s bankruptcy or insolvency, including an order for relief in an involuntary bankruptcy case or our Manager authorizing or filing a voluntary bankruptcy petition; |
| · | there is a change of control of our Manager which a majority of our independent directors determines is materially detrimental to us; |
| · | our Manager is unable to perform its obligations under the Management Agreement; |
| · | our Manager is dissolved; or |
| · | our Manager commits fraud against us, misappropriates or embezzles funds of ours, or acts, or fails to act, in a manner constituting gross negligence, or acts in a manner constituting bad faith or willful misconduct, in the performance of its duties under the Management Agreement, subject to a cure period. |
Our Manager may terminate the Management Agreement upon 60 days’ prior written notice in the event that we default in the performance of any material term, condition or covenant contained in the Management Agreement and such default continues for a period of 30 days after written notice thereof. In an event of termination by our Manager for cause, the Termination Fee set forth below would be payable.
Our Manager may terminate the Management Agreement if we become required to register as an investment company under the Investment Company Act, but no Termination Fee would be payable in such event.
Termination Fee
In the event a Termination Fee is payable, we will pay our Manager a termination fee equal to 3.00 times the sum of the Base Management Fee and Incentive Fee earned, in each case, by our Manager during the 12-month period immediately preceding such termination, calculated as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal quarter before the date of non-renewal/termination.
Internalization
Upon the determination by at least two-thirds of our independent directors that, upon an internalization of our management, AFFO (as defined below) per share would be greater than AFFO per share immediately prior to such internalization, we may internalize, with consideration upon such internalization being paid by us to our Manager (the “Internalization Consideration”) equal to 2.75 times the sum of the Base Management Fee and Incentive Fee, in each case, earned by our Manager during the 12-month period immediately preceding such internalization, calculated as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal quarter before the date of the internalization. For the avoidance of doubt, at least 50% of the value of the Internalization Consideration will be satisfied in units of the Operating Partnership.
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Assignment
Our Manager may not assign the Management Agreement, except to an affiliate, without the consent of a majority of our independent directors.
We may not assign our rights or responsibilities under the Management Agreement without the prior written consent of our Manager, except in the case of assignment to another REIT or other organization which is our successor, in which case such successor organization will be bound under the Management Agreement and by the terms of such assignment in the same manner as we are bound under the Management Agreement.
Base Management Fee
We will pay our Manager a base management fee (the “Base Management Fee”) in an amount equal to 1.50% of our new stockholders’ equity, per year.
For purposes of calculating the Base Management Fee, our new stockholders’ equity means: (1) the sum of (i) the net asset value of the Operating Partnership (“Net Asset Value”) plus (ii) the net proceeds from the issuance of (or equity value assigned to) equity and equity equivalent securities in any subsequent offering (allocated on a pro rata daily basis for such issuances during the fiscal quarter of any such issuance) plus (iii) retained earnings at the end of the most recently completed calendar quarter (without taking into account any non-cash equity compensation expense incurred in current or prior periods), less (2) any amount that the Company has paid to repurchase our common stock issued in any subsequent offering. New stockholders’ equity also excludes (a) any unrealized gains and losses and other non-cash items (including depreciation and amortization) that have impacted stockholders’ equity as reported in our financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP, and (b) one-time events pursuant to changes in GAAP, and certain non-cash items not otherwise described above, in each case after discussions between our Manager and our independent directors and approval by a majority of our independent directors. We determined Net Asset Value, for purposes of the foregoing, based on the midpoint of the range of net asset values utilized by Duff & Phelps in its analysis underlying the opinion it delivered to the Bluerock Residential board of directors in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement. One half of each quarterly installment of the Base Management Fee will be payable in C-LTIP units, calculated pursuant to the formula above. The remainder of the Base Management Fee will be payable in cash or in C-LTIP units, at the election of our board of directors, in each case calculated pursuant to the formula above.
Incentive Fee
We will pay our Manager an incentive fee (the “Incentive Fee”) with respect to each calendar quarter (or part thereof that the Management Agreement is in effect) in arrears.
The Incentive Fee will be an amount, not less than zero, equal to the difference between (1) the product of (i) 20% and (ii) the difference between (a) the Company’s adjusted funds from operations (“AFFO”) for the previous 12-month period and (b) the product of (A) the product of (x) the weighted average of the price per share of equity securities as derived from the Net Asset Value and the issue price of equity securities issued in future offerings and transactions, multiplied by (y) the weighted average number of all shares of our common stock outstanding on a fully-diluted basis (including any restricted stock units, any restricted shares of our common stock, LTIP units, and other shares of our common stock underlying awards granted under incentive plans and units in the Operating Partnership) in the previous 12-month period multiplied by (B) 8%, and (2) the sum of any Incentive Fee paid to our Manager with respect to the first three calendar quarters of such previous 12-month period; provided, however, that no Incentive Fee is payable with respect to any calendar quarter unless AFFO is greater than zero for the four most recently completed calendar quarters, or the number of completed calendar quarters since the Distribution Date, whichever is less. For purposes of calculating the Incentive Fee during the first 12 months after completion of the Distribution, AFFO will be determined by annualizing the applicable period following completion of the Distribution. One half of each quarterly installment of the Incentive Fee will be payable in C-LTIP units, calculated pursuant to the formula above. The remainder of the Incentive Fee will be payable in cash or in C-LTIP units, at the election of our board of directors, in each case calculated pursuant to the formula above.
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The following example illustrates how we would calculate our quarterly Incentive Fee in accordance with the Management Agreement. Our actual results may differ materially from the following example.
Assume the following:
| · | AFFO for the 12-month period equals $41,000,000; |
| · | weighted average price per share of equity securities is $10.00; |
| · | the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding on a fully diluted basis during the 12-month period is 50,000,000; and |
| · | Incentive Fees paid during the first three calendar quarters of such 12-month period are $0. |
Under these assumptions, the quarterly Incentive Fee payable to our Manager would be $200,000, as calculated below:
Pursuant to the calculation formula, if AFFO increases and the weighted average share price and weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding on a fully diluted basis remain constant, the Incentive Fee will increase.
Reimbursement of Expenses
We will be required to reimburse our Manager for the following expenses:
| · | acquisition expenses incurred in connection with the selection and acquisition of investments; |
| · | general and administrative expenses of us, our Operating Partnership, and our subsidiaries; |
| · | expenses incurred in connection with the issuance of our securities, any financing transaction and other costs incident to the acquisition, development, redevelopment, construction, repositioning, leasing, disposition and financing of investments; |
| · | costs of legal, tax, accounting, consulting, auditing and other similar services rendered for us by providers retained by our Manager or, if provided by our Manager’s personnel, in amounts which are no greater than those that would be payable to outside professionals or consultants engaged to perform such services pursuant to agreements negotiated on an arm’s-length basis; |
| · | the compensation and expenses of our directors and the cost of liability insurance to indemnify us and our directors and officers; |
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| · | costs associated with the establishment and maintenance of any of our credit facilities, other financing arrangements, or other indebtedness of ours (including commitment fees, accounting fees, legal fees, closing and other similar costs) or any of our securities offerings; |
| · | expenses connected with communications to holders of our securities or of our subsidiaries and other bookkeeping and clerical work necessary in maintaining relations with holders of such securities and in complying with the continuous reporting and other requirements of governmental bodies or agencies, including, without limitation, all costs of preparing and filing required reports with the SEC, the costs payable by us to any transfer agent and registrar in connection with the listing and/or trading of our stock on any exchange, the fees payable by us to any such exchange in connection with its listing, costs of preparing, printing and mailing our annual report to our stockholders or our Operating Partnership’s partners, as applicable, and proxy materials with respect to any meeting of our stockholders or our Operating Partnership’s partners, as applicable; |
| · | costs associated with any computer software or hardware, electronic equipment or purchased information technology services from third-party vendors that is used for us; |
| · | expenses incurred by managers, officers, personnel and agents of our Manager for travel on our behalf and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred by managers, officers, personnel and agents of our Manager in connection with the purchase, development, redevelopment, construction, repositioning, leasing, financing, refinancing, sale or other disposition of an investment or establishment of any of our securities offerings, or in connection with any financing transaction; |
| · | costs and expenses incurred with respect to market information systems and publications, research publications and materials, and settlement, clearing and custodial fees and expenses; |
| · | compensation and expenses of our custodian and transfer agent, if any; |
| · | the costs of maintaining compliance with all federal, state and local rules and regulations or any other regulatory agency; |
| · | all taxes and license fees; |
| · | all insurance costs incurred in connection with the operation of our business except for the costs attributable to the insurance that our Manager elects to carry for itself and its personnel costs and expenses incurred in contracting with third parties; |
| · | all other costs and expenses relating to our business and investment operations, including, without limitation, the costs and expenses of acquiring, owning, protecting, maintaining, developing and disposing of investments, including appraisal, reporting, audit and legal fees; |
| · | expenses relating to any office(s) or office facilities, including, but not limited to, disaster backup recovery sites and facilities, maintained for us or our investments separate from the office or offices of our Manager; |
| · | expenses connected with the payments of interest, dividends or distributions in cash or any other form authorized or caused to be made by the board of directors to or on account of holders of our securities or of our subsidiaries, including, without limitation, in connection with any dividend reinvestment plan; |
| · | any judgment or settlement of pending or threatened proceedings (whether civil, criminal or otherwise) against us or any subsidiary, or against any trustee, director, partner, member or officer of us or of any subsidiary in his capacity as such for which we or any subsidiary is required to indemnify such trustee, director, partner, member or officer pursuant to the applicable governing document or other instrument or agreement, or by any court or governmental agency; and |
| · | all other expenses actually incurred by our Manager (except as described below) which are reasonably necessary for the performance by our Manager of its duties and functions under the Management Agreement. |
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In addition, we may be required to pay our pro rata portion of rent, telephone, utilities, office furniture, equipment, machinery and other office, internal and overhead expenses of our Manager and its affiliates required for our operations, provided that such expenses are in amounts no greater than those that would be payable to third-party professionals or consultants engaged to perform such services pursuant to agreements negotiated on an arm’s-length basis, and excepting only those expenses that are specifically the responsibility of our Manager.
Except with respect to the costs of legal services rendered for us by providers retained by our Manager, which costs will be our expense, our Manager will be responsible for the expenses related to any and all personnel of our Manager and its affiliates who provide services to us pursuant to the Management Agreement, including, without limitation, salaries, bonus and other wages, payroll taxes and the cost of employee benefit plans of such personnel, and costs of insurance with respect to such personnel. For the avoidance of doubt, any incentive plan of Bluerock Homes or the Operating Partnership in which any person referred to above participates will not be an expense of our Manager.
Grants of Equity Compensation to Our Manager
We expect to implement the BHM Incentive Plans (as defined below), pursuant to which our compensation committee is expected to be authorized to approve grants of equity-based awards to our officers, directors and affiliates (including officers and employees of our Manager and its affiliates).
MANAGEMENT
Executive Officers Following the Distribution
The individuals listed as those who will be our executive officers below will also serve as officers of our Manager. As executive officers of our Manager, they will serve to manage the day-to-day affairs and carry out the directives of our board of directors in the review, selection and recommendation of investment opportunities and operating acquired investments and monitoring the performance of those investments to ensure that they are consistent with our investment objectives.
The following table sets forth certain information as of the record date for the Distribution concerning our executive officers following the Distribution:
|
Name |
Age* |
Position(s) | ||
| R. Ramin Kamfar | 58 | Chief Executive Officer | ||
| Jordan Ruddy | 59 | President | ||
| Ryan S. MacDonald | 39 | Chief Investment Officer | ||
| James G. Babb, III | 57 | Chief Strategy Officer | ||
| Christopher J. Vohs | 46 | Chief Financial Officer | ||
| Michael DiFranco | 57 | Executive Vice President, Operations | ||
| Steven Siptrott | 36 | Managing Director, Head of Transactions | ||
| Jason Emala | 43 | Chief Legal Officer and Secretary |
| * | As of April 22, 2022. |
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The background and experience of Messrs. Kamfar, Ruddy, MacDonald, Babb, Vohs, DiFranco, Siptrott and Emala are described above in “Our Manager and Management Agreement.”
Board of Directors Following the Distribution
We operate under the direction of our board of directors. Our board of directors will be responsible for the management and control of our affairs. Our board of directors will retain our Manager to manage our day-to-day operations and our portfolio of real estate assets, subject to the supervision of our board of directors. We will have five directors, four of whom we expect to be determined to be independent directors as defined by the listing standards of the NYSE American. The members of our board of directors will each serve for a one-year term expiring at our first annual meeting of stockholders after the Distribution Date, and until their respective successors are duly elected and qualified.
The information presented below highlights each director’s specific experience, qualifications, attributes and skills. We believe that all of our directors have a reputation for integrity, honesty, and adherence to high ethical standards. Each has demonstrated business acumen and an ability to exercise sound judgment, as well as a commitment of service. In addition to meetings of the various committees of our board of directors, which committees we describe below, we expect our directors to hold at least four regular board meetings each year.
We will continue to review the composition of our board of directors in an effort to assemble a group that can best perpetuate the success of our business and represent the interests of our stockholders through the exercise of sound judgment using its diversity of experience in various areas.
The following table sets forth certain information as of the record date for the Distribution concerning the members of our board of directors following the Distribution:
|
Name |
Age* |
Position(s) |
| R. Ramin Kamfar | 58 | Chairman of the Board |
| I. Bobby Majumder | 53 | Lead Independent Director |
| Elizabeth Harrison | 57 | Director |
| Kamal Jafarnia | 55 | Director |
| Romano Tio | 62 | Director |
| * | As of April 22, 2022. |
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The background and experience of Mr. Kamfar is described above in “Our Manager and Management Agreement.”
I. Bobby Majumder. Mr. Majumder has served as an independent member of the board of directors of Bluerock Residential since January 2009, but will no longer serve in such capacity as of the Merger Effective Time. Mr. Majumder is a partner at the law firm of Frost Brown Todd. Mr. Majumder specializes in corporate and securities transactions with an emphasis on the representation of underwriters, placement agents and issuers in both public and private offerings, private investment in public equity (PIPE) transactions and venture capital and private equity funds. Prior to Frost Brown Todd, Mr. Majumder was a partner at the law firm of Reed Smith from May 2019 to September 2021, where he served as the Managing Partner of the firm’s Dallas office and firmwide Co-Chair of the firm’s India practice. Prior to Reed Smith, Mr. Majumder was a partner at the law firm of Perkins Coie from March 2013 to May 2019. Prior to Perkins Coie, Mr. Majumder was a partner in the law firm of K&L Gates LLP from May 2005 to March 2013. From January 2000 to April 2005, Mr. Majumder was a partner at the firm of Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP. Through his law practice, Mr. Majumder has gained significant experience relating to the acquisition of a number of types of real property assets including raw land, improved real estate and oil and gas interests. Mr. Majumder also has served as an independent trustee on the Board of Trustees of Bluerock Total Income + Real Estate Fund, a closed-end interval fund organized by Bluerock Residential, since July 2012. He is an active member of the Park Cities Rotary Club, a charter member of the Dallas Chapter of The Indus Entrepreneurs and an Associate Board member of the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University. Mr. Majumder received a J.D. degree in 1993 from Washington and Lee University School of Law, located in Lexington, Virginia, and a B.A. degree in 1990 from Trinity University, located in San Antonio, Texas.
Elizabeth Harrison. Ms. Harrison has served as an independent member of the board of directors of Bluerock Residential since July 2018, but will no longer serve in such capacity as of the Merger Effective Time. Ms. Harrison has over 23 years of branding and marketing experience. Ms. Harrison serves as the CEO and Principal of H&S Communications (“H&S”), a full-service marketing, branding and public relations agency with offices in New York, Miami and Los Angeles, which she co-founded in 1995. Having organized the sale of H&S to Omnicom Group (NYSE: OMC), a leading global marketing and corporate communications company, in 2003, where she continued to serve as CEO, Ms. Harrison reacquired H&S from Omnicom Group in 2020. As CEO of H&S, Ms. Harrison is responsible for the company’s operations and strategic development, while overseeing communications, partnerships and marketing for clients that include real estate developers, luxury hotel properties and travel technology companies on a global level. In 2011, H&S became the complementary sister-agency of Ketchum, a leading global communications consultancy. Ms. Harrison is the co-author of several books and is frequently invited to share her luxury branding expertise at high-profile conferences and summits, most recently including Harvard’s 5th Annual CEO Roundtable: Building Leading Brands and Driving Growth. Ms. Harrison has also served as a panelist for Step Up Women’s Network’s “View from the Top” seminar. Ms. Harrison has served on the boards of Love Heals and the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education, and also works closely with the Ars Nova Theater Group. Ms. Harrison received a B.A. degree in 1986 from Sarah Lawrence College, located in Bronxville, New York.
Kamal Jafarnia. Mr. Jafarnia has served as an independent member of the board of directors of Bluerock Residential since June 2019, but will no longer serve in such capacity as of the Merger Effective Time. Mr. Jafarnia currently serves as General Counsel, Executive Vice President and Secretary of Lonsdale Digital Management, Inc. Previously, Mr. Jafarnia served as General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer at Artivest Holdings, Inc., which position he held from October 2018 until February 2021, and as Chief Compliance Officer of Altegris Advisors LLC, which was the advisor to the Altegris KKR Commitments Fund. Prior to Artivest, Mr. Jafarnia served as Managing Director for Legal and Business Development at Provasi Capital Partners LP. Prior to that, from October 2014 to December 2017, he served as Senior Vice President of W.P. Carey Inc. (NYSE: WPC), as well as Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of Carey Credit Advisors, Inc. and as Chief Compliance Officer and General Counsel of Carey Financial, LLC. Prior to joining W. P. Carey Inc., Mr. Jafarnia served as Counsel to two American Lawyer Global 100 law firms in New York. From March 2014 to October 2014, Mr. Jafarnia served as Counsel in the REIT practice group at the law firm of Greenberg Traurig, LLP. From August 2012 to March 2014, Mr. Jafarnia served as Counsel in the Financial Services & Products Group and was a member of the REIT practice group of Alston & Bird, LLP. Between 2006 and 2012, Mr. Jafarnia served as a senior executive, in-house counsel, and Chief Compliance Officer for several alternative investment program sponsors, including, among others, American Realty Capital, a real estate investment program sponsor, and its affiliated broker-dealer, Realty Capital Securities, LLC. In addition, Mr. Jafarnia has served as a non-executive independent member of the board of directors of Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. (NYSE: AHT) since January 2013. Mr. Jafarnia received an LL.M. in Securities and Financial Regulation in 2011 from Georgetown University Law Center, located in Washington, D.C., a J.D. degree in 1992 from Temple University, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a B.A. degree in economics and government in 1988 from the University of Texas at Austin.
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Romano Tio. Mr. Tio has served as an independent member of the board of directors of Bluerock Residential since January 2009, but will no longer serve in such capacity as of the Merger Effective Time. Mr. Tio serves as Senior Managing Director of Greystone, a commercial real estate finance and investment firm. From June 2017 to March 2021, Mr. Tio served as Senior Managing Director at Ackman-Ziff, an institutional real estate capital advisory firm. From May 2009 to June 2017, Mr. Tio served as Managing Director of RM Capital Management LLC, a boutique real estate investment and advisory firm. From January 2008 to May 2009, Mr. Tio served as a Managing Director and co-head of the commercial real estate efforts of HCP Real Estate Investors, LLC, an affiliate of Harbinger Capital Partners Funds, a $10+ billion private investment firm specializing in event/distressed strategies. From August 2003 until December 2007, Mr. Tio was a Managing Director at Carlton Group Ltd., a boutique real estate investment banking firm where he was involved in over $2.5 billion worth of commercial real estate transactions. Earlier in his career, Mr. Tio was involved in real estate sales and brokerage for 25 years. Mr. Tio also has served as an independent trustee of the Board of Trustees of Bluerock Total Income + Real Estate Fund, a closed-end interval fund organized by Bluerock Residential, since July 2012. Mr. Tio served as an independent member of the Board of Directors of Yangtze River Development Ltd. from January 2016 until February 2017. Mr. Tio received a B.S. degree in biochemistry in 1982 from Hofstra University, located in Hempstead, New York.
Committees of the Board of Directors
The board of directors will establish four standing committees that perform certain delegated functions of the board: an audit committee, an investment committee, a compensation committee and a nominating and corporate governance committee. All of our committees are expected to consist solely of independent directors, except that R. Ramin Kamfar, our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of our board of directors, will serve on the investment committee. The principal functions of these committees are briefly described below. Our board of directors may from time to time establish other committees to facilitate our management. The committee charters will be available on our website at [ ].
Audit Committee
Our board of directors will establish an audit committee, which is expected to be comprised of three of our independent directors: I. Bobby Majumder, Kamal Jafarnia and Romano Tio. Mr. Majumder will be the chairman of our audit committee and is expected to be designated as the “audit committee financial expert” as defined by the applicable rules promulgated by the SEC and the NYSE American corporate governance listing standards.
The audit committee will meet on a regular basis, at least quarterly and more frequently as necessary. The audit committee’s primary functions will be:
| · | to evaluate and approve the audit and non-audit services and fees of our independent registered public accounting firm; |
| · | to periodically review the auditors’ independence; and |
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| · | to assist our board of directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities by reviewing the financial information to be provided to the stockholders and others, management’s system of internal controls and procedures, and the audit and financial reporting process. |
The audit committee will also review and approve certain related party transactions, as described under “Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions — Related Person Transactions.” The audit committee will fulfill these responsibilities primarily by carrying out the activities enumerated in the audit committee charter, as amended by the audit committee from time to time.
Investment Committee
Our board of directors will establish an investment committee, which will be comprised of Romano Tio, Elizabeth Harrison and R. Ramin Kamfar. Mr. Tio will be the chairman of our investment committee. Pursuant to the investment committee charter, as amended by the investment committee from time to time, the board of directors will delegate to the investment committee (1) certain responsibilities with respect to certain real estate investments proposed by our Manager and (2) the authority to review our investment policies and procedures on an ongoing basis and recommend any changes to our board of directors. Our board of directors will delegate to our Manager, for so long as we are externally managed, the authority to approve all real property acquisitions, developments and dispositions, including real property portfolio acquisitions, developments and dispositions, as well as all other investments in real estate consistent with our investment guidelines, that require an equity investment of less than 5% of our total stockholders’ equity, including any financing of such investment. Our Manager will recommend for consideration by the investment committee suitable transactions requiring an equity investment equal to or in excess of 5%, and up to 10%, of our total stockholders’ equity. Suitable transactions requiring an equity investment equal to or in excess of 10% of our total stockholders’ equity will be recommended by our Manager for consideration by our full board of directors. If the investment committee (or full board of directors, as applicable) approves a given investment, then our Manager will be directed to make such investment on our behalf, if such investment can be completed on approved terms.
Compensation Committee
Our board of directors will establish a compensation committee, which is expected to be comprised of three of our independent directors: Romano Tio, Elizabeth Harrison and I. Bobby Majumder. Mr. Tio will be the chairman of our compensation committee. Our compensation committee charter, as amended by the compensation committee from time to time, will detail the principal functions of the compensation committee. These functions include:
| · | reviewing and approving on an annual basis the corporate goals and objectives relevant to our Chief Executive Officer’s compensation, if any; |
| · | evaluating our Chief Executive Officer’s performance in light of such goals and objectives, and determining and approving the remuneration of our Chief Executive Officer, if any, based on such evaluation; |
| · | reviewing and approving the compensation, if any, of all of our other executive officers; |
| · | reviewing our executive compensation policies and plans; |
| · | overseeing plans and programs related to the compensation of our Manager, including fees payable to our Manager pursuant to the Management Agreement; |
| · | implementing and administering our incentive compensation equity-based remuneration plans, if any; |
| · | assisting management in complying with our proxy statement and annual report disclosure requirements; |
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| · | producing a report on executive compensation to be included in our annual proxy statement; and |
| · | reviewing, evaluating and recommending changes, if appropriate, to the remuneration for directors. |
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
Our compensation committee is expected to be comprised of three of our independent directors. None of these individuals will at any time have served as an officer or employee of the Company. None of our executive officers will have served as a director or member of the compensation committee of any entity that has one or more of its executive officers serving as a member of our board of directors or compensation committee.
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
Our board of directors will establish a nominating and corporate governance committee, which is expected to be comprised of three of our independent directors: I. Bobby Majumder, Kamal Jafarnia, and Romano Tio. Mr. Majumder will be the chairman of our nominating and corporate governance committee. Our nominating and corporate governance committee charter, as amended by the nominating and corporate governance committee from time to time, will detail the principal functions of the nominating and corporate governance committee. These functions include:
| · | identifying and recommending qualified candidates to our full board of directors for election as directors, and recommending nominees for election as directors at the annual meeting of stockholders; |
| · | developing and recommending corporate governance guidelines to our board of directors, and implementing and monitoring such guidelines; |
| · | reviewing and making recommendations on matters involving the general operation of our board of directors, including board size and composition, and committee composition and structure; |
| · | recommending nominees for each committee of our board of directors to our board of directors; |
| · | annually facilitating the assessment of our board of directors’ performance as a whole and of the individual directors, as required by applicable law, regulations and the NYSE American corporate governance listing standards; and |
| · | overseeing our board of directors’ evaluation of management. |
Corporate Governance
We are committed to operating our business under strong and accountable corporate governance practices and have structured our corporate governance in a manner we believe closely aligns our interests with those of our stockholders.
Corporate Governance Guidelines
Our board of directors will adopt, effective immediately prior to the effective time of the Distribution, Corporate Governance Guidelines to assist the board of directors in guiding our governance. The Corporate Governance Guidelines will be re-evaluated periodically and at least annually by the nominating and corporate governance committee in light of changing circumstances in order to ensure that the Corporate Governance Guidelines continue to serve our and our stockholders’ best interests.
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
We will not have a policy that expressly restricts any of our directors, officers, stockholders or affiliates, including our Manager or Bluerock Real Estate L.L.C. or their respective officers and employees, from having a pecuniary interest in an investment in or from conducting, for their own account, business activities of the type we conduct. However, our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics will contain a conflicts of interest policy that prohibits our directors, officers and personnel, as well as officers and employees of our Manager and its affiliates and of Bluerock Real Estate L.L.C. who provide services to us, from engaging in any transaction that involves an actual conflict of interest with us. Notwithstanding the prohibitions in our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, after considering the relevant facts and circumstances of any actual conflict of interest, our board of directors may, on a case-by-case basis and in their sole discretion, waive such conflict of interest for executive officers or directors, and must be promptly disclosed to stockholders. Waivers for other personnel may be made by our Chief Executive Officer. Waivers of our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics will be required to be disclosed in accordance with the NYSE American and SEC requirements. A copy of our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics will be available in the Investor Relations section of our website at [ ].
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Board Leadership Structure
We expect our board composition and our corporate governance guidelines to ensure strong oversight by independent directors. The board of directors’ audit committee, compensation committee and nominating and corporate governance committee are expected to be each composed entirely of independent directors, while the board of directors’ investment committee is expected to be composed of one of our executive officers and two independent directors. The board of directors will be led by Mr. Kamfar. As Chairman of the Board, Mr. Kamfar will be responsible for leading board meetings and meetings of stockholders, generally setting the agendas for board meetings (subject to the requests of other directors) and providing information to the other directors in advance of meetings and between meetings. As Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kamfar will manage our business under the direction of the board of directors and implement our policies as determined by the board of directors. Pursuant to our Corporate Governance Guidelines, the board of directors will not require the role of the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer to be separated. However, our Corporate Governance Guidelines will require the appointment of a lead independent director if the Chairman of the Board is not an independent director. Our lead independent director is expected to be I. Bobby Majumder. The role of our lead independent director will include the following duties:
| · | call meetings of the independent directors, as needed; |
| · | develop the agendas for meetings of the independent directors; |
| · | preside at executive sessions of the independent directors; |
| · | confer regularly with the Chief Executive Officer; and |
| · | serve as a liaison between the Chief Executive Officer and the independent directors. |
Director Independence
Under our Corporate Governance Guidelines, a majority of the members of our board of directors, and all the members of our audit committee, compensation committee, and nominating and corporate governance committee, must be “independent.” Our Corporate Governance Guidelines will define an “independent” director in accordance with the NYSE American Company Guide and under applicable law. In addition, audit and compensation committee members will be subject to the additional independence requirements of applicable SEC rules and NYSE American listing standards. Our Corporate Governance Guidelines will require our board of directors to review the independence of all directors at least annually. A director will not be independent unless our board of directors affirmatively determines that he or she does not have a material relationship with us (either directly or as a partner, director, member, stockholder or officer of an organization that has a relationship with us).
Board Role in Risk Oversight
While our Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day management of risks faced by the Company, our board of directors, as a whole and through its committees, will have responsibility for the oversight of risk management. No less than quarterly, our entire board will review information regarding the Company’s liquidity, borrowings, operations, legal and regulatory compliance and actual and expected material developments in our business, as well as the risks associated with each. In addition, each year the board of directors will review our investment strategies and objectives and their continued viability, and each quarter the directors will review variances in major line items between our current results and our budget from the prior quarter, review all significant changes to our projections for future periods and discuss risks related to our property portfolio. The audit committee will oversee risk management in the areas of financial reporting, internal controls and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The investment committee will oversee risk management with respect to certain real estate investments proposed by our Manager and our investment policies and procedures. The compensation committee will review and approve, on an annual basis, the corporate goals and objectives relevant to our Chief Executive Officer’s compensation, if any, and evaluate our Chief Executive Officer’s performance in light of such goals. The compensation committee will further review and approve, on an annual basis, the compensation, if any, of all of our other officers, and also administer our incentive compensation equity-based plans, if any. The nominating and corporate governance committee will be responsible for identifying and recommending to our full board of directors qualified candidates for election as directors, developing and recommending to our board of directors our Corporate Governance Guidelines, and implementing and monitoring such guidelines. Although the audit committee, investment committee, compensation committee and nominating and corporate governance committee will be responsible for evaluating certain risks and overseeing the management of such risks, the entire board of directors will be regularly informed through reporting by each such committee about such risks.
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Nomination of Directors
Our nominating and corporate governance committee, which consists of three of our independent directors, will adopt a nominating and corporate governance committee charter that details the committee’s principal functions. These functions will include identifying and recommending to our full board of directors qualified candidates for election as directors, and recommending nominees for election as directors at the annual meeting of stockholders. Our bylaws will provide that nominations of individuals for election to the board of directors at an annual meeting of stockholders may be made only (1) pursuant to our notice of the meeting, (2) by or at the direction of the board of directors or (3) by a stockholder who is a stockholder of record at the record date set by the board of directors for the purpose of determining stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, at the time of giving the advance notice required by our bylaws and at the time of the meeting (and any postponement or adjournment thereof), who is entitled to vote at the meeting in the election of each individual so nominated and who has complied with the advance notice procedures of our bylaws. Nominations of individuals for election to the board of directors at a special meeting may be made only (1) by or at the direction of the board of directors, or (2) provided that the board of directors has determined that directors will be elected at the meeting, by a stockholder who is a stockholder of record at the record date set by the board of directors for the purpose of determining stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, at the time of giving the advance notice required by our bylaws and at the time of the special meeting (and any postponement or adjournment thereof), who is entitled to vote at the meeting in the election of each individual so nominated and who has complied with the advance notice provisions of our bylaws.
Board Membership Criteria
Our business involves a wide range of real estate, financing, accounting, management and financial reporting issues. In light of our business and structure, the full board of directors will annually review the appropriate experience, skills and characteristics required of directors in the context of the then-current membership of the board of directors, and the nominating and corporate governance committee will consider the experience, mix of skills, and other qualities of the directors and nominees with respect to all director nominations to ensure appropriate board composition. This assessment will include, in the context of the perceived needs of the board of directors at that time, issues of knowledge, experience, judgment and skills, such as an understanding of the real estate and real estate finance industries, accounting or financial management expertise, or marketing and branding experience. Our nominating and corporate governance committee and board of directors will seek to nominate directors with diverse backgrounds, experiences and skill sets that complement each other so as to maximize the collective knowledge, experience, judgment and skills of the entire board of directors. In particular, the nominating and corporate governance committee and board of directors are expected to believe that directors and nominees with the following qualities and experiences can assist in meeting this goal:
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| · | Senior Leadership Experience. Directors with experience in significant leadership positions provide the Company with perspective in analyzing, shaping and overseeing the execution of operational, organizational and strategic issues at a senior level. Further, such persons have a practical understanding of balancing operational and strategic goals and risk management. |
| · | Business Entrepreneurship and Transactional Experience. Directors who have a background in entrepreneurial businesses and growth transactions can provide insight into developing and implementing strategies for partnering in joint ventures and/or growing via mergers and acquisitions. Further, such directors have a practical understanding of the valuation of transactions and business opportunities and management’s plans for integration with existing operations. |
| · | Financial and Accounting Experience. An understanding of the financial markets, corporate finance, accounting requirements and regulations and accounting and financial reporting processes allows directors to understand, oversee and advise management with respect to the Company’s operating and strategic performance, capital structure, financing and investing activities, financial reporting and internal control of such activities. The Company seeks to have a number of directors who qualify as audit committee financial experts and expects all of its directors to be financially knowledgeable. |
| · | Real Estate Experience. An understanding of real estate issues, particularly with respect to real estate investment trusts, real estate development and single-family rental properties, brings critical industry-specific knowledge and experience to our board of directors. Education and experience in the real estate industry is useful in understanding the Company’s acquisition and development of single-family rental properties and the competitive landscape of our industry. |
| · | Marketing and Branding Experience. Directors with extensive marketing, branding and communications experience can offer advice and insights with regard to strategic, operational and financial aspects of the Company’s integrated and digital marketing. A background in brand management, customer engagement and e-commerce is valuable to the Company’s development and implementation of strategies to strengthen our branding and marketing initiatives and build our overall brand position. |
The composition of our board of directors will also reflect our commitment to diversity. We believe that multiple and varied points of view facilitate more balanced, wide-ranging discussion in the boardroom, and contribute to a more effective decision-making process. Of the five expected members of our board of directors, one is female, and four self-identify as ethnic minorities:
|
Gender Diversity |
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| Women: | 1 | 20% | ||
| Men: | 4 | 80% |
|
Ethnic Diversity |
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| Minority: | 4 | 80% | ||
| Non-minority: | 1 | 20% |
Other considerations in director nominations include the ability of the candidate to attend board meetings regularly and to devote an appropriate amount of time in preparation for those meetings. It also is expected that those nominated to serve as independent directors will be individuals who possess a reputation and hold positions or affiliations befitting a director of a publicly held company and who are actively engaged in their occupations or professions.
A vacancy in our board of directors may be filled only by the vote of a majority of the remaining directors, even if the remaining directors do not constitute a quorum, and any director elected to fill a vacancy will serve for the remainder of the full term of the directorship in which the vacancy occurred and until a successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her earlier death, resignation or removal. Any director may resign at any time. Our charter will provide that any or all of our directors may be removed from office for cause, and then only by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast generally in the election of directors. For these purposes, “cause” means, with respect to any particular director, conviction of a felony or final judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction holding that such director caused demonstrable material harm to us through bad faith or active and deliberate dishonesty.
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Each director will serve a term beginning on the date of his or her election and ending on the next annual meeting of the stockholders and when his or her successor is duly elected and qualifies. Under our bylaws, in order to be elected as a director, a director nominee must receive the affirmative vote of a plurality of all votes cast at a meeting at which a quorum is present. However, because holders of our common stock will have no right to cumulative voting for the election of directors, at each annual meeting of stockholders, the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock will be able to elect all of the directors.
Director Attendance at Annual Meetings
Although we will have no policy with regard to attendance by the members of the board of directors at our annual meetings, we will invite and encourage all members of the board of directors to attend our annual meetings to foster communication between stockholders and the board of directors.
Contacting the Board of Directors
Any stockholder who desires to contact members of the board of directors may do so by writing to: Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc., Board of Directors, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, 32nd Floor, New York, New York 10105, Attention: Secretary. Communications received will be distributed by our Secretary to such member or members of the board of directors as deemed appropriate by our Secretary, depending on the facts and circumstances outlined in the communication received. For example, if any questions regarding accounting, internal accounting controls and auditing matters are received, they will be forwarded by our Secretary to the audit committee for review.
Stock Ownership Guidelines
To further align the interests of our executive officers and directors with the interests of our stockholders, and to promote our commitment to sound corporate governance, our board of directors will implement stock ownership guidelines for our executive officers and our independent directors.
The Stock Ownership Guidelines will provide that, within five years of the later date of adoption of the guidelines or the date an individual first becomes subject to the guidelines upon becoming a director or executive officer:
| · | our Chief Executive Officer will be required to own shares of our common stock, including restricted stock, valued at a minimum of $[ ]; |
| · | all other executive officers will be required to own shares of our common stock, including restricted stock, valued at a minimum of $[ ]; and |
| · | independent directors will be required to own shares of our common stock valued at a minimum of three times their annual cash retainer for service on the board of directors. |
Any shares owned directly or indirectly (including shares owned in trust and including restricted stock) by the executive officer or director, or his or her spouse or minor children, will constitute qualifying shares that count toward satisfaction of the Stock Ownership Guidelines. Deferred or restricted stock units, OP units and LTIP units (with each such OP unit and LTIP unit counting as, and having a value equivalent to, one share of our common stock) owned by the executive officer or director will also constitute qualifying shares that count toward satisfaction of the Stock Ownership Guidelines. Shares underlying stock options will not count toward satisfaction of the Stock Ownership Guidelines.
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As of [ ], we expect that all of our directors and executive officers will be in compliance with our Stock Ownership Guidelines or on track to be compliant within the five-year period specified by the guidelines.
Pledging Policy
Our board of directors will adopt a Pledging Policy Regarding Company Securities (the “Pledging Policy”). The Pledging Policy will be designed to achieve the following goals:
| · | prohibit any pledging by executive officers or directors for the purpose of hedging the pledgor’s exposure to fluctuations in the Company’s stock price; |
| · | strictly limit the amount of leverage allowed on executive officer or director loans from third parties for which a portion of their holdings of Company equity securities have been pledged as collateral, to protect the Company and its stockholders from potential risks associated with a forced sale by the lender; |
| · | require audit committee pre-certification and pre-approval prior to the entry by any executive officer or director into any proposed loan or other arrangement requiring the pledging of Company securities; and |
| · | foster and encourage our executive officers and directors to maintain and increase their equity ownership levels well above the levels mandated by the Company’s Stock Ownership Guidelines, thereby strengthening the alignment of their economic interests in the Company with those of stockholders, in part by permitting them, subject to the strict leverage restrictions, pre-approval and ongoing audit committee monitoring and oversight addressed above, to pledge a limited amount of their Company equity to secure loans. Such limited pledging will offer them access to liquidity, for purposes other than to serve as a hedge, and provide them with an alternative to the sale of such Company equity and the resulting, undesirable reduction in equity ownership and dilution of alignment of interests with stockholders. |
Our board of directors will foster and encourage high levels of equity ownership of the Company’s equity securities by our executive officers and directors in the interest of providing the strongest-possible incentive to align the interests of our executive officers and directors with those of our stockholders. Our board of directors believes that an absolute prohibition on pledging would run counter to these objectives, with the unintended and undesirable consequence of leaving our executive officers and directors with no means of accessing legitimate liquidity needs, other than by the sale of their Company securities holdings.
The Pledging Policy will entirely prohibit the Company’s executive officers and directors from pledging, or otherwise using as collateral to secure any loan or other obligation, any Company securities that such executive officer or director is required to hold pursuant to the Company’s Stock Ownership Guidelines.
The Pledging Policy will prohibit any pledging by executive officers or directors for the purpose of hedging the pledgor’s exposure to fluctuations in the Company’s stock price.
The Pledging Policy will strictly limit pledges by our executive officers and directors, subject to audit committee oversight, to only those Company securities they hold in excess of the Stock Ownership Guidelines applicable to them (such excess, to the extent pledged, the “Pledged Shares”). The Pledging Policy will require executive officers and directors to pre-certify and obtain pre-approval from the audit committee for any such new pledging arrangement, and require re-certification to the audit committee of compliance with the Pledging Policy with respect to existing pledging arrangements. In addition, the Pledging Policy will require all pledgors to annually certify to the audit committee his or her ongoing compliance therewith.
The Pledging Policy will further limit the number of permitted Pledged Shares by setting a maximum leverage rate of thirty percent (30%), such that the number of Pledged Shares cannot exceed, on an annual basis, thirty percent (30%) of the time-weighted value of the lender’s entire collateral package, inclusive of the Pledged Shares.
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The audit committee will monitor compliance with the Pledging Policy by requiring certain certifications from each executive officer or director with a new or existing loan secured in part by Pledged Shares. Prior to entering into any such new pledge, an executive officer or director must certify to the audit committee that the pledge is limited to only such Company securities held in excess of the applicable Stock Ownership Guidelines, and that its sole purpose is not to serve as a hedging arrangement. With respect to previously existing pledge arrangements, promptly following adoption of the Pledging Policy, each executive officer or director must certify to the audit committee that its existing pledge arrangement is not for the sole purpose of serving as a hedging arrangement. In addition, within ten (10) days following each annual meeting of the Company’s stockholders, each pledgor must certify to the audit committee that its Pledged Shares comprised thirty percent (30%) or less of the time-weighted value of the creditor’s collateral package, inclusive of the Pledged Shares.
The Pledging Policy’s restrictions, structuring and certification obligations will be intended to mitigate the risks from a forced sale due to a default under the subject loan or as a result of a decline in the market price of our common stock, should such market price be the valuation parameter applicable to the lender’s collateral package. First, even if an event occurred that would enable a lender to exercise forced sale rights, the fact that the Pledged Shares will be limited to thirty percent (30%) of the time-weighted collateral package means that the lender should have other sources of collateral with which to cover its loan, and thus may not pursue a forced sale, even if authorized to do so. Further, to the extent that the subject loan will have covenants tied to the value of its overall collateral package, valuing the Pledged Shares according to the market price of our common stock mitigates the risk related to even a precipitous drop in such market price, as such a drop might not result in a significant reduction in the value of the lender’s overall collateral package to the point of causing a default, in which case, all else being equal, the lender would not have a forced sale right at all.
The Pledging Policy will simultaneously fulfill the objectives and strategy of the board of directors to further the alignment of stockholder interests by heavily weighting the compensation of our executive officers and directors in Company equity, while recognizing their legitimate need to access liquidity from their earned equity if desired, providing them with a method to do so without having to sell their equity to access that liquidity, thereby reducing their ownership and diluting their alignment with stockholder interests.
Anti-Hedging Policy
Our insider trading policy will expressly prohibit the Company’s directors, officers and employees from engaging in any of the following hedging transactions with respect to any Company securities at any time: short sales (including short sales “against the box”); buying or selling puts or calls; buying financial instruments designed to hedge or offset any decrease in the market value of Company securities owned by the individual directly or indirectly, including prepaid variable forward contracts, equity swaps, collars and exchange funds; and frequent trading to take advantage of fluctuations in share price.
Clawback Policy
Our compensation committee will adopt a policy on the possible recoupment, or “clawback,” of Incentive Fees from our Manager. The policy will be invoked in the event that (a) the Company is required to restate its financial statements due to material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirement under U.S. federal securities laws (whether or not based on fraud or misconduct) and the board of directors or the compensation committee has not determined that such restatement (i) is required or permitted under GAAP in connection with the adoption or implementation of a new accounting standard, or (ii) was caused by the Company’s decision to change its accounting practice, as permitted by applicable law, and (b) the performance measurement period with respect to such Incentive Fees includes one or more fiscal periods affected by such restatement.
In such event, under the terms of the policy, our board of directors or the compensation committee will determine whether, within three (3) completed fiscal years preceding the restatement date and any interim period, our Manager received Incentive Fees in excess of the amount to which it would otherwise have been entitled based on the restated financial statements (such excess amount, “Excess Compensation”). If the board of directors or the compensation committee determines that our Manager received Excess Compensation, the Company will be entitled to recover such Excess Compensation from the Manager, and our board of directors or the compensation committee, in its sole discretion and subject to applicable law, will take such action as it deems necessary to recover such Excess Compensation. Such actions may include requiring repayment or return of prior Incentive Fees paid to our Manager, including Incentive Fees not affected by the accounting restatement, or adjusting the amounts of future fees payable to our Manager.
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Compensation of Directors and Officers
Director Compensation
We will pay each of our independent directors an annual retainer of $[ ]. In addition, we will pay our independent directors $[ ] in cash per board meeting attended, $[ ] in cash for each committee meeting attended, and $[ ] in cash for each teleconference meeting of the board or any committee. All directors will receive reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with attendance at meetings of the board of directors.
Executive Officer Compensation
We do not currently have any employees. We will be externally managed by our Manager pursuant to the Management Agreement, and all of our executive officers are employed by our Manager or its affiliates. We will not reimburse our Manager for compensation paid to our executive officers. We have not paid, and do not expect to pay in 2022, any cash or other compensation to our executive officers. Officers are expected to be eligible for awards under our BHM Equity Incentive Plan for Individuals, as described below.
Incentive Plans
We expect our board of directors to adopt an Equity Incentive Plan for Individuals (the “BHM Individuals Plan”) and an Equity Incentive Plan for Entities (the “BHM Entities Plan”) to attract and retain independent directors, executive officers and other key employees, including officers and employees of our Manager and Operating Partnership and their affiliates and other service providers, including our Manager and its affiliates. Together, we refer to the BHM Individuals Plan and the BHM Entities Plan as the “BHM Incentive Plans.” The BHM Incentive Plans are expected to provide for the grant of options to purchase shares of our common stock, stock awards, stock appreciation rights, performance units, incentive awards and other equity-based awards, and are generally expected to be administered by the compensation committee of our board of directors.
The following discussion summarizes the material provisions of the BHM Incentive Plans. The forms of the BHM Incentive Plans will be filed as exhibits to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part.
Eligibility
Employees and officers of our Company and our affiliates (including employees of our Operating Partnership and Manager), and members of our board of directors, will be eligible to receive grants under the BHM Individuals Plan. In addition, individuals who provide significant services to us or an affiliate, including individuals who provide services to us or an affiliate by virtue of employment with, or providing services to, our Operating Partnership or Manager, will be eligible to receive grants under the BHM Individuals Plan. An entity that provides significant services to us or an affiliate will be eligible to receive grants under the BHM Entities Plan.
Limitation of Awards to Non-Employee Directors
Under the BHM Incentive Plans, no non-employee director may be granted during any calendar year awards with respect to more than 40,000 shares of our common stock.
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Share Authorization
The aggregate number of shares of our common stock that will be authorized for issuance under the BHM Incentive Plans is [ ] shares.
In connection with stock splits, dividends, recapitalizations and certain other events, our board of directors will make equitable adjustments that it deems appropriate in the aggregate number of shares of our common stock that may be issued under the BHM Incentive Plans, the individual grant limit for Nonemployee Directors described below, and the terms of outstanding awards.
If any options or stock appreciation rights terminate, expire or are canceled, forfeited, exchanged or surrendered without having been exercised or are paid in cash without delivery of common stock or if any stock awards, performance units or other equity-based awards are forfeited, the shares of our common stock subject to such awards will again be available for purposes of the BHM Incentive Plans. Shares of our common stock tendered or withheld to satisfy the exercise price of an award or for tax withholding are not available for future grants under the BHM Incentive Plans. If shares of common stock are issued upon the exercise of a stock appreciation right, the number of shares available for future awards under the BHM Incentive Plans shall be reduced by the number of shares for which the stock appreciation right was exercised rather than the number of shares issued to the participant.
Awards Under the BHM Incentive Plans
Options
The BHM Individuals Plan authorizes the grant of incentive stock options (under Section 422 of the Code) and both the BHM Individuals Plan and the BHM Entities Plan authorize the grant of options that do not qualify as incentive stock options. The exercise price of each option will be determined by the administrator, provided that the price cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of the shares of our common stock on the date on which the option is granted (or 110% of the shares’ fair market value on the grant date in the case of an incentive stock option granted to an individual who is a “ten percent stockholder” under Sections 422 and 424 of the Code). Except for adjustments to equitably reflect stock splits, stock dividends or similar events, the exercise price of an outstanding option may not be reduced and no payment may be made to cancel an “underwater” option without the approval of our stockholders. The exercise price for any option is generally payable (i) in cash, (ii) by certified check, (iii) by the surrender of shares of our common stock (or attestation of ownership of shares of our common stock) with an aggregate fair market value on the date on which the option is exercised, equal to the exercise price, or (iv) by payment through a broker in accordance with procedures established by the Federal Reserve Board. The term of an option cannot exceed ten years from the date of grant (or five years in the case of an incentive stock option granted to an individual who is a “ten percent stockholder”). The administrator will prescribe when an option will become exercisable, but options generally will not become exercisable before the first anniversary of its grant, except in the event of the death or disability of the holder or a change in control of the Company, and further provided that awards for up to five percent (5%) of the aggregate number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the BHM Incentive Plans may be granted or awarded without regard to the one-year minimum vesting requirement, in the discretion of the administrator. A participant cannot sell or dispose of more than fifty percent of the shares acquired under an option before the earlier of the first anniversary of the date of the option exercise or the date the participant is no longer employed by or providing services to us, or the Operating Partnership or our Manager. Incentive stock options may only be granted under the BHM Individuals Plan to our employees and employees of our subsidiaries.
Stock Awards
The BHM Incentive Plans also provide for the grant of stock awards. A stock award is an award of shares of our common stock that is subject to vesting requirements, restrictions on transfer and other restrictions as the administrator determines in its sole discretion on the date of grant, including the attainment of performance objectives. The restriction period generally will be at least one year, except in the event of the death or disability of the holder or a change in control of the Company, and further provided that awards for up to five percent (5%) of the aggregate number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the BHM Incentive Plans may be granted or awarded without regard to the one-year minimum vesting requirement, in the discretion of the administrator. A participant may not sell or dispose of more than fifty percent of the shares acquired under a stock award before the earlier of the first anniversary of the date the stock award vests or the date the participant is no longer employed by or providing services to us, or the Operating Partnership or our Manager. A participant who receives a stock award will have all of the rights of a stockholder as to those shares, including, without limitation, voting rights and the right to receive distributions; provided that if a stock award does not vest solely on the basis of continued employment or service, dividends will be accumulated and paid only when, and to the extent that, the stock award vests. During the period when stock awards are non-transferable or forfeitable, (i) a participant is prohibited from selling, transferring, pledging, exchanging, hypothecating or otherwise disposing of the participant’s stock award shares, (ii) the Company will retain custody of any certificates and (iii) a participant must deliver a stock power to the Company for each stock award.
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Stock Appreciation Rights
The BHM Incentive Plans authorize the grant of stock appreciation rights. A stock appreciation right provides the participant with the right to receive, upon exercise of the stock appreciation right, a payment in cash, shares of our common stock or a combination of the two. The amount that the participant will receive upon exercise of the stock appreciation right generally will equal the excess of the fair market value of the shares of our common stock on the date of exercise over the shares’ fair market value on the date of grant. Stock appreciation rights will become exercisable in accordance with terms determined by the administrator but generally will not become exercisable before the first anniversary of the grant, except in the event of the death or disability of the holder or a change in control of the Company, and further provided that awards for up to five percent (5%) of the aggregate number of shares of our common stock authorized for issuance under the BHM Incentive Plans may be granted or awarded without regard to the one-year minimum vesting requirement, in the discretion of the administrator. A participant cannot sell or dispose of more than fifty percent of the shares acquired under a stock appreciation right before the earlier of the first anniversary of the date the stock appreciation right is exercised or the date the participant is no longer employed by or providing services to us, or the Operating Partnership or our Manager. Stock appreciation rights may be granted in tandem with an option grant or as independent grants. The term of a stock appreciation right cannot exceed ten years from the date of grant or five years in the case of a stock appreciation right granted under the BHM Individuals Plan in tandem with an incentive stock option awarded to an individual who is a “ten percent stockholder.”
Performance Units
The BHM Incentive Plans also authorize the grant of performance units. Performance units represent the participant’s right to receive an amount, based on the value of a specified number of shares of our common stock, if performance goals or other requirements established by the administrator are met. The administrator will determine the applicable performance period, the performance goals and such other conditions that apply to the performance unit. If the performance goals are met, payment will be made with respect to the performance units. Performance units will become earned or vested in accordance with terms determined by the administrator, but generally will not become earned or vested before the first anniversary of their grant, except in the event of the death or disability of the holder or a change in control of the Company, and further provided that awards for up to five percent (5%) of the aggregate number of shares of our common stock authorized for issuance under the BHM Incentive Plans may be granted or awarded without regard to the one-year minimum vesting requirement, in the discretion of the administrator. Performance units will be paid in cash, shares of our common stock, other equity-based awards (including LTIP Units), other securities or property or a combination thereof. No more than fifty percent of the shares issued in settlement of performance units may be sold or disposed of before the first anniversary of the date that the shares were issued or the date that the participant is no longer employed by or providing services to us, or the Operating Partnership or our Manager.
Incentive Awards
The BHM Incentive Plans also authorize us to make incentive awards. An incentive award entitles the participant to receive a payment if certain requirements are met. The administrator will establish the requirements that must be met before an incentive award is earned and the requirements may be stated with reference to one or more performance measures or criteria prescribed by the administrator. A performance goal or objective may be expressed on an absolute basis or relative to the performance of one or more similarly situated companies or a published index and may be adjusted for unusual or non-recurring events, changes in applicable tax laws or accounting principles. The period in which the performance will be measured will be at least one year, and the administrator will determine the applicable performance goals and such other conditions that apply to the incentive award. If the performance goals are met, the incentive award will be paid. Incentive awards will become earned or vested in accordance with terms determined by the administrator, but generally will not become earned or vested before the first anniversary of their grant, except in the event of the death or disability of the holder or a change in control of the Company, and further provided that awards for up to five percent (5%) of the aggregate number of shares of our common stock authorized for issuance under the BHM Incentive Plans may be granted or awarded without regard to the one-year minimum vesting requirement, in the discretion of the administrator. An incentive award that is earned will be settled in a single payment which may be in cash, our common stock, other equity-based awards (including LTIP Units), or a combination thereof. No more than fifty percent of the shares issued in settlement of an incentive award may be sold or disposed of before the first anniversary of the date that the shares are issued or the date that the participant is no longer employed by or providing services to us, or the Operating Partnership or our Manager.
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Other Equity-Based Awards
The administrator may grant other types of stock-based awards as other equity-based awards, including LTIP Units, under the BHM Incentive Plans. Other equity-based awards are payable in cash, shares of our common stock or shares or units of such other equity, or a combination thereof, as determined by the administrator. The terms and conditions of other equity-based awards are determined by the administrator, and will include a requirement that performance objectives or other criteria be satisfied. Other equity-based awards generally will not become earned or vested before the first anniversary of their grant, except in the event of the death or disability of the holder or a change in control of the Company, and further provided that awards for up to five percent (5%) of the aggregate number of shares of our common stock authorized for issuance under the BHM Incentive Plans may be granted or awarded without regard to the one-year minimum vesting requirement, in the discretion of the administrator. In addition, a participant may not sell or dispose of more than fifty percent of the shares of our common stock or other equity interests (including LTIP Units) covered by other equity-based awards before the earlier of the first anniversary of the date that the shares or interests become vested or the date that the participant is no longer employed by or providing services to us, or the Operating Partnership or our Manager.
LTIP Units are a special class of partnership interest in our Operating Partnership. Each LTIP Unit awarded will be deemed equivalent to an award of one share of the applicable common stock under the BHM Incentive Plans, reducing their aggregate share authorization for other awards on a one-for-one basis. We will not receive a tax deduction for the value of any LTIP Units granted to participants. The vesting period for any LTIP Units, if any, will be determined at the time of issuance. LTIP Units, whether vested or not, will receive the same per-unit distributions as OP Units, which distributions will generally equal the per share distributions on shares of our common stock. This treatment with respect to distributions is similar to the expected treatment of our stock awards, which will generally receive full dividends whether vested or not. Initially, LTIP Units will not have full parity with OP Units with respect to liquidating distributions. Under the terms of the LTIP Units, our Operating Partnership will revalue its assets upon the occurrence of certain specified events, and any increase in the Operating Partnership’s valuation from the time of the last revaluation until such event will be allocated first to the holders of LTIP Units to equalize the capital accounts of such holders with the capital accounts of holders of OP Units. Upon equalization of the capital accounts of the holders of LTIP Units with the other holders of OP Units, the LTIP Units will achieve full parity with OP Units for all purposes, including with respect to liquidating distributions. If such parity is reached, vested LTIP Units may be converted into an equal number of OP Units at any time, and thereafter enjoy all the rights of OP Units, including redemption/exchange rights. However, there are circumstances under which such parity would not be reached. Until and unless such parity is reached, the value that a holder of LTIP Units will realize for a given number of vested LTIP Units will be less than the value of an equal number of shares of our common stock.
Dividend Equivalent Rights
The administrator may grant dividend equivalent rights in connection with the grant of performance units, other equity-based awards and incentive awards granted under the BHM Incentive Plans. Dividend equivalent rights may be paid currently or accrued as contingent cash obligations (in which case they may be deemed to have been reinvested in shares of our common stock or otherwise reinvested) except that if the underlying award will not vest solely on account of continued employment or service, any dividend equivalents will be accumulated and paid only when and to the extent that the underlying award vests.
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Change in Control
If we experience a change in control, the administrator may, at its discretion, provide that outstanding awards that are not exercised prior to the change in control will be assumed by the surviving entity, or will be replaced by a comparable substitute award of substantially equal value granted by the surviving entity.
Any time-based awards so assumed or replaced with substitute awards in connection with the Change in Control will vest in accordance with their original terms, except that any such time-based awards or substitute awards granted under the BHM Individuals Plan automatically become vested in full if (A) the holder’s employment or service with the Company, the successor entity, or an affiliate thereof is terminated (i) involuntarily without cause or following non-renewal of the holder’s employment agreement or services agreement, (ii) voluntarily by the holder with good reason, or (iii) on account of the holder’s death or disability, and (B) the holder remained in the continuous employ or service of the Company, the successor entity, or the applicable affiliate thereof from the date of such change in control until the date of such termination of employment or service.
Any performance-based awards so assumed or replaced with substitute awards in connection with the change in control will be of the same type of award as the original performance-based awards, and will have a value, as of the date of such change in control, that is substantially equal to the value of the original performance-based awards. In addition, such assumed or substituted performance-based awards will continue to vest in accordance with the terms and conditions of the original performance-based awards being assumed or replaced; provided, that the performance objectives and measures of the original performance-based awards being assumed or replaced shall be adjusted as the administrator determines is equitably required. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence (and solely with respect to assumed or substitute awards for performance-based awards originally granted under the BHM Individuals Plan), if (A) the holder’s employment with the Company, the successor entity, or an affiliate thereof is terminated (i) involuntarily without cause, (ii) following non-renewal of the employment agreement, if any, between the holder and the Company, the successor entity or the applicable affiliate thereof (if the holder has an employment agreement requiring accelerated vesting in such case), (iii) voluntarily by the holder with good reason, or (iv) on account of the holder’s death or disability, and (B) the holder remained in the continuous employ of the Company, the successor entity or the applicable affiliate thereof from the date of such change in control until the date of such termination of employment, then the assumed or substituted performance-based awards will automatically become vested with respect to a pro rata number of the shares or other securities subject to such assumed or substituted performance-based awards based on the extent to which the performance or other objectives are achieved as of the date of such termination of employment or service. Any portion of any such performance-based awards that does not become so vested will be forfeited.
On the date of such change in control, all outstanding awards under the BHM Incentive Plans that are not assumed or replaced with substitute awards in connection with the change in control will become fully vested, provided that any performance-based awards will vest at the greater of (A) the applicable target level and (B) the level of achievement of the performance objectives for the award as determined by the administrator taking into account performance through the latest date preceding the change in control (but not later than the end of the applicable performance period).
The administrator may also provide that any awards (or any portion thereof) that become vested in connection with the change in control as set forth above may be cancelled, in the sole discretion of the administrator, in exchange for a payment, in cash or shares of our common stock or other securities or consideration received by stockholders in the change in control transaction, in an amount substantially equal to (i) the price per share of common stock received by stockholders (in the case of vested shares of common stock), (ii) the amount by which the price per share of our common stock received by stockholders exceeds the option price or Initial Value (in the case of Options and SARs), and (iii) if applicable, the value of the other securities or property in which a Performance Unit or Other Equity-Based Award is denominated. However, in the case of Options and SARs, if the option price or Initial Value exceeds the price per share of our common stock received by stockholders in the change in control transaction, the Option or SAR may be cancelled without any payment to the holder.
In summary, a change in control under the BHM Incentive Plans occurs if:
| • | a person, entity or affiliated group (with certain exceptions) acquires, in a transaction or series of transactions, more than 50% of the total combined voting power of our outstanding securities; |
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| • | there occurs a merger, consolidation, reorganization, or business combination, unless the holders of our voting securities immediately prior to such transaction have more than 50% of the combined voting power of the securities in the successor entity or its parent; |
| • | we (i) sell or dispose of all or substantially all of our assets or (ii) acquire assets or stock of another entity, unless the holders of our voting securities immediately prior to such transaction have more than 50% of the combined voting power of the securities in the successor entity or its parent; or |
| • | during any period of twelve consecutive months, individuals who, at the beginning of such period, constitute our board of directors together with any new directors (other than individuals who become directors in connection with certain transactions or election contests) cease for any reason to constitute a majority of our board of directors. |
The Code has special rules that apply to “parachute payments,” i.e., compensation or benefits the payment of which is contingent upon a change in control. If certain individuals receive parachute payments in excess of a safe harbor amount prescribed by the Code, the payor is denied a federal income tax deduction for a portion of the payments and the recipient must pay a 20% excise tax, in addition to income tax, on a portion of the payments.
If we experience a change in control, benefits provided under the BHM Incentive Plans could be treated as parachute payments. In that event, the BHM Incentive Plans provide that the benefits under the BHM Incentive Plans, and all other parachute payments provided under other plans and agreements, will be reduced to the safe harbor amount, i.e., the maximum amount that may be paid without excise tax liability or loss of deduction, if the reduction allows the participant to receive greater after-tax benefits. The benefits under the BHM Incentive Plans and other plans and agreements will not be reduced, however, if the participant will receive greater after-tax benefits (taking into account the 20% excise tax payable by the participant) by receiving the total benefits. The BHM Incentive Plans also provide that these provisions do not apply to a participant who has an agreement with us providing that the participant cannot receive payments in excess of the safe harbor amount.
Clawback Policy
Any award granted under the BHM Incentive Plans, and any payment made with respect to any such award, are subject to the condition that we may require such award to be returned, and any payment made with respect to such award to be repaid, if such action is required under the terms of any Company recoupment or “clawback” (forfeiture or repayment) policy as in effect on the date the award was granted or if recoupment is required by any law, rule, requirement or regulation.
Amendment; Termination
Our board of directors may amend or terminate the BHM Incentive Plans at any time, provided that no amendment may adversely impair the rights of participants under outstanding awards. Our stockholders must approve any amendment if such approval is required under applicable law or stock exchange requirements. Our stockholders also must approve, among other things, any amendment that materially increases the benefits accruing to participants under the BHM Incentive Plans, materially increases the aggregate number of shares of our common stock that may be issued under the BHM Incentive Plans (other than on account of stock dividends, stock splits, or other changes in capitalization as described above) or materially modifies the requirements as to eligibility for participation in the BHM Incentive Plans. For the avoidance of doubt, without the approval of stockholders, our board of directors may not (except on account of stock dividends, stock splits, or other changes in capitalization) (a) reduce the option price per share of an outstanding option or the exercise price of a stock appreciation right, (b) cancel an outstanding option or stock appreciation right when the option price or exercise prices applicable exceeds the fair market value of our common stock or (c) take any other action that may be treated as a repricing of an option or stock appreciation right under the rules and regulations of the principal exchange on which the common stock is listed for trading. Unless terminated sooner by our board of directors or extended with stockholder approval, the BHM Incentive Plans will terminate on the tenth anniversary of the Distribution Date.
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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS
Merger Agreement
On December 20, 2021, Bluerock Residential, Badger Parent and Merger Sub entered into the Merger Agreement.
Pursuant to the terms and conditions in the Merger Agreement, at the Merger Effective Time, each share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Bluerock Residential (the “Bluerock Residential Common Stock”), that is issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Merger Effective Time will automatically be converted into the right to receive $24.25 in cash, without interest (the “Per Share Merger Consideration”).
Bluerock Residential will deliver a notice of redemption (the “Preferred Stock Redemption Notice”) to the holders of Bluerock Residential’s Series B Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Series B Preferred Stock”), 7.625% Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Series C Preferred Stock”), 7.125% Series D Cumulative Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Series D Preferred Stock”), and Series T Redeemable Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Series T Preferred Stock”), in accordance with their respective Articles Supplementary, in order to provide that such preferred stock will be redeemed effective as of the Merger Effective Time. Each share of Series C Preferred Stock, Series D Preferred Stock and Series T Preferred Stock will be redeemed for an amount equal to $25.00 plus an amount equal to all accrued and unpaid dividends to and including the redemption date set forth in the Preferred Stock Redemption Notice, without interest. Each share of Series B Preferred Stock will be redeemed for an amount equal to $1,000.00 plus an amount equal to all accrued and unpaid dividends to and including the redemption date set forth in the Preferred Stock Redemption Notice, without interest.
The outstanding warrants to purchase Bluerock Residential Common Stock (the “Bluerock Residential Warrants”) will remain outstanding following the Merger Effective Time in accordance with their terms, but the terms of the Warrant Agreements with respect to the Bluerock Residential Warrants will be adjusted so that the holder of any Bluerock Residential Warrant exercised after the Merger Effective Time will be entitled to receive in cash the amount of the Per Share Merger Consideration which, if the Bluerock Residential Warrant had been exercised immediately prior to the Merger Effective Time, such holder would have been entitled to receive upon the consummation of the Merger.
In addition, each award of shares of restricted Bluerock Residential Common Stock that is outstanding immediately prior to the Merger Effective Time will be cancelled in exchange for a cash payment in an amount equal to (i) the number of shares of Bluerock Residential Common Stock subject to such award immediately prior to the Merger Effective Time multiplied by (ii) the Per Share Merger Consideration, without interest and less any applicable withholding taxes.
Bluerock Residential has agreed that, before the completion of the Merger, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to complete the Separation and the Distribution in accordance with the Merger Agreement, including certain separation principles agreed to by Badger Parent and Bluerock Residential in connection with the Merger Agreement that are consistent with the terms of the Separation and the Distribution as described in this information statement and that provide for certain parameters and restrictions on the terms of the Separation and Distribution Agreement and Tax Matters Agreement, including that these agreements must generally be on terms that are customary for similar separation transactions.
The consummation of the Merger is conditioned on the consummation of the Separation and the Distribution, as well as certain customary closing conditions, including, among others, approval of the Merger by the affirmative vote of the stockholders entitled to cast a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the Merger by the holders of issued and outstanding Bluerock Residential Common Stock (the “Bluerock Residential Requisite Vote”). The Merger Agreement requires Bluerock Residential to convene a shareholders’ meeting for purposes of obtaining the Bluerock Residential Requisite Vote.
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The Merger Agreement may be terminated under certain circumstances by Bluerock Residential, including prior to obtaining the Bluerock Residential Requisite Vote, if, after following certain procedures and adhering to certain restrictions, the Bluerock Residential board of directors effects a Company Adverse Recommendation Change (as defined in the Merger Agreement) in connection with a Company Superior Proposal (as defined in the Merger Agreement) and Bluerock Residential enters into a definitive agreement providing for the implementation of a Company Superior Proposal. In addition, Badger Parent may terminate the Merger Agreement under certain circumstances and subject to certain restrictions, including if the Bluerock Residential board of directors effects a Company Adverse Recommendation Change. The Merger Agreement also may be terminated by either Bluerock Residential or Badger Parent if the Merger has not been completed on or prior to the date that is nine months after the date of the Merger Agreement, which date may be extended to complete the Separation and the Distribution, by Bluerock Residential, up to the date that is ten months after the date of the Merger Agreement, or by Badger Parent, up to the date that is twelve months after the date of the Merger Agreement.
Upon a termination of the Merger Agreement, under certain circumstances, Bluerock Residential will be required to pay a termination fee to Badger Parent of $60 million. Upon termination of the Merger Agreement in certain other circumstances, Badger Parent will be required to pay Bluerock Residential a termination fee of $200 million.
The representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained in the Merger Agreement were made only for the purposes of such agreement and as of specified dates, were solely for the benefit of the parties to such agreement, and may be subject to limitations agreed upon by the contracting parties. The representations and warranties have been qualified by confidential disclosures made for the purposes of allocating contractual risk between the parties to the Merger Agreement instead of establishing these matters as facts, and may be subject to standards of materiality applicable to the contracting parties that differ from those applicable to investors. Shareholders should not rely on the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained in the Merger Agreement or any descriptions thereof as characterizations of the actual state of facts or condition of Bluerock Residential, Badger Parent, Merger Sub or any of their respective affiliates or businesses. Moreover, information concerning the subject matter of the representations and warranties may change after the date of the Merger Agreement, which subsequent information may or may not be fully reflected in Bluerock Residential’s public disclosures. Accordingly, the Merger Agreement is incorporated by reference into this filing only to provide investors with information regarding the terms of the Merger Agreement and not to provide investors with any other factual information regarding the parties to the Merger Agreement or their respective businesses.
Related Person Transactions
This section summarizes material agreements between us and certain related parties and agreements between us and Bluerock Residential that will govern the ongoing relationships between the two companies after the Distribution and the Merger. The agreements with Bluerock Residential are intended to provide for an orderly transition to our status as an independent, publicly traded company. Additional or modified agreements, arrangements and transactions, which would be negotiated at arm’s-length, may be entered into between us and Bluerock Residential after the Distribution. These summaries are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of the forms of the applicable agreements, which will be filed as exhibits to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part, and will be incorporated herein by reference.
Agreements with Bluerock Residential
Following the Distribution, we will operate as an independent public company. To govern certain ongoing relationships between us and Bluerock Residential after the Distribution, and to provide mechanisms for an orderly transition, we and Bluerock Residential intend to enter into agreements pursuant to which certain services and rights will be provided for following the Distribution, and we and Bluerock Residential will indemnify each other against certain liabilities arising from our respective businesses. The following is a summary of the terms of the material agreements we expect to enter into with Bluerock Residential.
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Separation and Distribution Agreement
Prior to the Distribution, we and Bluerock Residential will enter into the Separation and Distribution Agreement, which will set forth, among other things, our agreements with Bluerock Residential regarding the principal transactions necessary to separate us from Bluerock Residential. We and Bluerock Residential will also enter into other agreements prior to the Distribution that will effectuate the Separation and the Distribution, provide a framework for our relationship with Bluerock Residential after the Distribution and provide for the allocation between us and Bluerock Residential of Bluerock Residential’s assets, liabilities and obligations (including its investments, property, employee, benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to periods prior to, at and after the Distribution, and govern certain relationships between us and Bluerock Residential after the Distribution and the Merger, such as the Tax Matters Agreement. The forms of the agreements listed above will be filed as exhibits to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part. For more information regarding these agreements, please refer to the discussion under “The Separation and the Distribution—The Separation and Distribution Agreement” and “The Separation and the Distribution—Related Agreements.”
Tax Matters Agreement
As of or prior to the Distribution, we and Bluerock Residential will enter into a Tax Matters Agreement that will govern the respective rights, responsibilities and obligations of Bluerock Residential and us after the Distribution with respect to tax liabilities and benefits, tax attributes, certain indemnification rights with respect to tax matters, the preparation and filing of tax returns, the control of audits and other tax proceedings, the intended federal income tax characterization of the Separation and the Distribution and the agreed upon reporting thereof, and certain other tax matters. Our obligations under the Tax Matters Agreement will not be limited in amount or subject to any cap. If we are required to pay any liabilities under the circumstances set forth in the Tax Matters Agreement or pursuant to applicable tax law, the amounts may be significant.
Sublease with Bluerock Residential
The interests of Bluerock Residential under the Sublease will be assigned (subject to any required consents of Sublandlord and Landlord) to Bluerock Homes, including all of Bluerock Residential’s liabilities associated therewith, and Bluerock Residential (until the consummation of the Distribution) and Bluerock Homes (after the consummation of the Distribution) will use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the release, as of the Distribution, by Sublandlord of Bluerock Residential from any obligations under the Sublease as of and after the consummation of the Distribution, except Badger Parent will pay to Bluerock Homes $2.5 million of the remaining rent as of the consummation of the Distribution at the consummation of the Merger, and each of BRE and Bluerock Homes indemnify Bluerock Residential from obligations accruing under the Sublease from and after the consummation of the Distribution. We expect that this office space at 32nd Floor, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York will serve as our corporate offices following the Distribution.
Management Agreement
We, the Operating Partnership and our Manager will be parties to the Management Agreement. The Management Agreement will require our Manager to manage our business affairs in conformity with our investment guidelines and other policies that are approved and monitored by our board of directors. Our Manager’s role as Manager will be under the supervision and direction of our board of directors. For more information regarding the Management Agreement, please refer to the discussion under “Our Manager and Management Agreement—Management Agreement.”
Related Person Transaction Policy
Our board of directors will adopt a written related person transaction policy, for which the audit committee will oversee compliance. The purpose of this policy is to describe the procedures used to identify, review and approve any existing or proposed transaction, arrangement, relationship (or series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships) in which (a) we, our Operating Partnership or any of our subsidiaries were, are or will be a participant, (b) the aggregate amount involved exceeds $120,000, and (c) a related person has or will have a direct or indirect interest. For purposes of this policy, a related person will be (i) any person who is, or at any time since the beginning of the current fiscal year was, a director, director nominee, or executive officer of Bluerock Homes, (ii) any beneficial owner of more than 5% of our stock, or (iii) any immediate family member of any of the foregoing persons.
Under this policy, our audit committee will be responsible for reviewing and approving or ratifying each related person transaction or proposed related person transaction. In determining whether to approve or ratify a related person transaction, the audit committee will be required to consider all relevant facts and circumstances of the related person transaction available to the audit committee and to approve only those related person transactions that are in the best interests of Bluerock Homes, as the audit committee determines in good faith. No member of the audit committee will be permitted to participate in any consideration of a related person transaction with respect to which that member or any of his or her immediate family is a related person. A copy of our related person transaction policy will be available in the Investor Relations section of our website at [ ].
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SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
Before the Separation and the Distribution, all of the outstanding shares of Bluerock Homes common stock will be owned beneficially and of record by Bluerock Residential. Following the Separation and the Distribution, Bluerock Homes expects to have outstanding an aggregate of approximately [ ] shares of common stock and approximately [ ] shares of Class C common stock based upon approximately [ ] shares of Bluerock Residential common stock and approximately [ ] shares of Bluerock Residential Class C common stock issued and outstanding on [ ], excluding treasury shares, assuming no exercise of Bluerock Residential equity awards and applying the distribution ratio.
The following table shows the number of shares of Bluerock Homes common stock and Bluerock Homes Class C common stock expected to be beneficially owned by each person who is the beneficial owner of 5% or more of our outstanding shares of Bluerock Homes common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock, our directors, named executive officers and our directors and current executive officers as a group immediately following the completion of the Distribution, based on ownership of Bluerock Residential common stock and Bluerock Homes Class C common stock as of [ ], and based on the assumption that, for every share of Bluerock Residential common stock or Bluerock Residential Class C common stock held by such persons, they will receive [ ] share[s] of Bluerock Homes common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock, as applicable. Each person named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to all of the shares of Bluerock Home common stock or Bluerock Homes Class C common stock shown as beneficially owned by such person, except as otherwise set forth in the notes to the table. In general, “beneficial ownership” includes those shares that a person has the sole or shared power to vote or dispose of, including shares that the person has the right to acquire within 60 days.
| Name of Beneficial Owner | Title of Class of Securities Owned | Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership | Percent of Class | Amount of Beneficial Ownership | Percent of Common Stock | |||||||||||||
| 5% Stockholders | ||||||||||||||||||
| BlackRock, Inc. 55 East 52nd Street New York, NY 10022 | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| AllianceBernstein L.P. 1345 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10105 | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Directors and Named Executive Officers | ||||||||||||||||||
| Named Executive Officers | ||||||||||||||||||
| R. Ramin Kamfar | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Class C Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
| Jordan Ruddy | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Class C Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
| Ryan S. MacDonald | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Class C Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
| James G. Babb, III | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Class C Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
| Christopher J. Vohs | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Class C Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
| Michael DiFranco | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Class C Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
| Steven Siptrott | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Class C Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
| Jason Emala | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Class C Common Stock | ||||||||||||||||||
| Independent Directors | ||||||||||||||||||
| I. Bobby Majumder | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Elizabeth Harrison | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Kamal Jafarnia | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| Romano Tio | Class A Common Stock | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | |||||||||||||
| All directors and officers as a group (12 persons) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
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DESCRIPTION OF MATERIAL INDEBTEDNESS
The following discussion summarizes the material provisions of the Loan Agreement (as defined below). The Loan Agreement is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part.
On April 6, 2022, Bluerock Residential Holdings, as risk retention sponsor, and various subsidiaries of the Operating Partnership (the “Borrowers”) entered into a Loan Agreement (the “Loan Agreement”) with Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as sole lead arranger, Deutsche Bank AG, New York Branch, as administrative agent, the financial institutions party thereto as lenders (the “Lenders”) and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as paying agent and calculation agent. Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, consistent with the terms, conditions and provisions of a two-year revolving credit facility, the Borrowers may obtain loans in an aggregate amount not exceeding $150 million (the “Credit Facility”). Borrowings under the Credit Facility are limited to financings related to the acquisition, renovation, rehabilitation, maintenance and leasing of single-family properties. As of the date of this information statement, the Borrowers have drawn $35 million under the Credit Facility.
The Credit Facility has an initial maturity date of April 6, 2024 which may be extended by the Borrowers for up to two years through the exercise of two one-year extension options (each, an “Extension Period”), in each case, subject to certain customary conditions and the payment of an extension fee of 0.25% of the aggregate amount of the then-outstanding revolving commitments. Revolving loans under the Loan Agreement bear interest at a benchmark interest rate, which will initially be based on term SOFR, plus 2.80% (the “Spread”). The Spread shall increase by 0.15% for each Extension Period. Loans owed under the Loan Agreement may be prepaid at any time without premium or penalty, subject to customary conditions. The Borrowers are subject to certain mandatory prepayment provisions under the Loan Agreement in the event certain conditions are not satisfied; provided, that such mandatory prepayments are limited to amounts necessary to satisfy the conditions set forth in the Loan Agreement. The Loan Agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, require customary reporting obligations, contain certain ongoing operational requirements, and restrict, subject to certain exceptions, the incurrence of liens, the ability of the Borrowers and certain affiliates to enter into mergers, consolidations, sales of assets and similar transactions, the making of dividends and other distributions and the consummation of transactions with affiliates. In addition, the Borrowers will be subject to the following financial maintenance covenants: (1) maximum ratio of total indebtedness to total value of the financed assets of 72.5%, (2) minimum ratio of underwritten net cash flow to total interest expense of 1.25 to 1.00, and (3) minimum ratio of underwritten net cash flow to total outstanding debt amounts of 6.25%.
The Loan Agreement contains events of default relating to customary matters, including, among other things, payment defaults, covenant defaults, acceleration of other material indebtedness, bankruptcy events, judgment defaults and change of control events. The occurrence of an event of default will limit the ability of the Borrowers to make distributions and may result in the termination of the Credit Facility, acceleration of repayment obligations and the exercise of other remedies by the Lenders.
In connection with the Loan Agreement, Bluerock Residential entered into a Sponsor Guaranty, dated April 6, 2022, pursuant to which Bluerock Residential provides a guaranty of certain obligations of the Borrowers under the Loan Agreement until the completion of the Distribution. Similarly, Bluerock Homes entered into a Sponsor Guaranty, dated April 6, 2022, pursuant to which Bluerock Homes shall provide a guaranty of certain of the obligations of the Borrowers under the Loan Agreement following the Distribution. Bluerock Residential is also subject to certain financial covenants under the Loan Agreement related to tangible net worth and liquidity. Upon the consummation of the Distribution, Bluerock Residential, as the initial sponsor under the Loan Agreement, shall no longer have any obligations or liabilities to the Lenders under the Loan Agreement. Following the Distribution, Bluerock Homes, as the replacement sponsor, shall be solely responsible for the obligations and liabilities to the Lenders previously held by Bluerock Residential under the Loan Agreement.
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DESCRIPTION OF OUR CAPITAL STOCK
The following summary of the terms of the capital stock of Bluerock Homes does not purport to be complete and is subject to and qualified in its entirety by reference to Maryland law, including the MGCL, and our charter and bylaws, which will be in effect prior to the Distribution. The form of our bylaws is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part. The form of our charter will be filed as an exhibit to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part. See the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information.”
General
Our charter will provide that we may issue up to [ ] shares of common stock, $0.01 par value per share and [ ] shares of preferred stock, par value $[ ] per share.
Immediately following the Distribution, we expect that approximately [ ] shares of our common stock will be issued and outstanding and [ ] shares of our Class C common stock will be issued and outstanding and that no shares of our preferred stock will be issued and outstanding
Subject to the preferential rights of any holders of any series of preferred stock then outstanding, our charter will authorize our board of directors, with the approval of a majority of the directors and without any action by stockholders, to amend our charter from time to time to increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares of stock or the number of shares of stock of any class or series that we have authority to issue. Under Maryland law, our stockholders generally are not liable for our debts or obligations solely as a result of their status as stockholders.
Common Stock
Distributions
Subject to the preferential rights, if any, of holders of any class or series of our stock other than our common stock and to the provisions of our charter regarding the restrictions on the ownership and transfer of stock, the holders of our common stock will be entitled to receive distributions authorized by our board of directors and declared by us out of legally available funds after payment of, or provision for, full cumulative distributions on and any required redemptions of shares of any series of preferred stock then outstanding, and, upon our liquidation or dissolution, will be entitled to share ratably in the distributable assets of our company remaining after satisfaction of the prior preferential rights of any preferred stock and the satisfaction of all of our debts and liabilities.
Voting Rights
Subject to the restrictions on ownership and transfer of stock to be contained in our charter and except as may otherwise be specified in our charter, each share of our common stock will have one vote per share on all matters voted on by common stockholders, including the election of directors. Because stockholders will not have cumulative voting rights, holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock will be able to elect our entire board of directors. Generally, the affirmative vote of a majority of all votes cast will be necessary to take stockholder action, except that a plurality of all the votes cast at a meeting at which a quorum is present will be sufficient to elect a director, except as set forth in the next paragraph.
Under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation generally cannot dissolve, amend its charter, merge, convert, sell all or substantially all of its assets, engage in a share exchange or engage in similar transactions outside the ordinary course of business, unless approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders holding at least two-thirds of the shares entitled to vote on the matter. However, a Maryland corporation may provide in its charter for approval of these matters by a lesser percentage, but not less than a majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Our charter will provide for a majority vote in these situations. Our charter will further provide that any or all of our directors may be removed from office at any time, but only for cause, and then only by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast generally in the election of directors. For these purposes, “cause” will mean, with respect to any particular director, conviction of a felony or final judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction holding that such director caused demonstrable material harm to us through bad faith or active and deliberate dishonesty.
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Other Rights
Holders of our common stock will not have preference, conversion, exchange, sinking fund, or redemption rights or preemptive rights to subscribe for any of our securities, and generally will have no appraisal rights.
Power to Increase or Decrease Authorized Shares of Common Stock, Reclassify Unissued Shares of Common Stock and Issue Additional Shares of Common Stock
Subject to the preferential rights of any holders of preferred stock, our charter will authorize our board of directors, with the approval of a majority of the directors and without any action by stockholders, to amend our charter from time to time to increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares of stock or the number of shares of stock of any class or series that we have authority to issue. In addition, our charter will authorize our board of directors to authorize the issuance from time to time of shares of our common stock.
Our charter also will contain a provision permitting our board of directors, by resolution, to classify or reclassify any unissued common stock into one or more classes or series of stock and establish the preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or other distributions, qualifications, or terms or conditions of redemption of any such stock, subject to certain restrictions, including the express terms of any class or series of stock outstanding at the time. We believe that the power to classify or reclassify unissued shares of stock and thereafter issue the classified or reclassified shares will provide us with increased flexibility in structuring possible future financings and acquisitions and in meeting other needs that might arise.
Transfer Agent and Registrar
The transfer agent and registrar for our common stock and Class C common stock will be CTC.
Listing
We intend to apply to have our shared of common stock listed on the NYSE American under the symbol “BHM.”
Restrictions on Ownership and Transfer
In order for us to qualify and maintain our qualification as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws, we must meet several requirements concerning the ownership of our outstanding capital stock. Specifically, no more than 50% in value of our outstanding shares of capital stock may be owned, directly or indirectly, by five or fewer individuals (as defined in the U.S. federal income tax laws to include specified private foundations, employee benefit plans and trusts, and charitable trusts) during the last half of any taxable year, other than our first REIT taxable year. Moreover, our outstanding shares of capital stock must be beneficially owned by 100 or more persons during at least 335 days of a taxable year of 12 months or during a proportionate part of a shorter taxable year, other than our first REIT taxable year.
Because we expect our board of directors to believe it is essential for our company to qualify and continue to qualify as a REIT and for other corporate purposes, our charter, subject to the exceptions described below, will provide that no person may own, or be deemed to own by virtue of the attribution provisions of the U.S. federal income tax laws, more than 9.8% of:
| · | the total value of the aggregate of the outstanding shares of our capital stock; or |
| · | the total value or number (whichever is more restrictive) of the aggregate of the outstanding shares of our common stock. |
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We refer to these limitations regarding the ownership of our shares collectively as the “9.8% Ownership Limitation.” Further, our charter will provide for certain circumstances where our board of directors may exempt (prospectively or retroactively) a person from the 9.8% Ownership Limitation and establish or increase an excepted holder limit for such person. Subject to certain conditions, our board of directors may also increase the 9.8% Ownership Limitation for one or more persons and decrease the 9.8% Ownership Limitation for all other persons.
To assist us in qualifying and preserving our status as a REIT, among other purposes, our charter will also contain limitations on the ownership and transfer of shares of capital stock that would:
| · | result in our capital stock being beneficially owned by fewer than 100 persons, determined without reference to any rules of attribution; |
| · | result in our company being “closely held” under the U.S. federal income tax laws; and |
| · | cause our company to own, actually or constructively, 9.8% or more of the ownership interests in a tenant of our real property, under the U.S. federal income tax laws or otherwise fail to qualify as a REIT. |
Any attempted transfer of our stock, which, if effective, would result in our stock being beneficially owned by fewer than 100 persons, will be null and void, with the intended transferee acquiring no rights in such shares of stock. If any transfer of our stock occurs which, if effective, would result in any person owning shares in violation of the other limitations described above (including the 9.8% Ownership Limitation), then that number of shares the ownership of which otherwise would cause such person to violate such limitations, rounded up to the nearest whole share, will automatically result in such shares being designated as shares-in-trust and transferred automatically to a trust effective on the close of business on the business day before the purported transfer of such shares. We will designate the trustee, but it will not be affiliated with our company. The beneficiary of the trust will be one or more charitable organizations that are named by our company. If the transfer to the trust would not be effective for any reason to prevent a violation of the limitations on ownership and transfer, then the transfer of that number of shares that otherwise would cause the violation will be null and void, with the intended transferee acquiring no rights in such shares.
Shares-in-trust will remain shares of issued and outstanding capital stock and will be entitled to the same rights and privileges as all other stock of the same class or series, but the intended transferee will acquire no rights in those shares. The trustee will receive all dividends and other distributions on the shares-in-trust and will hold such dividends or other distributions in trust for the benefit of the beneficiary. Any dividend or other distribution paid prior to our discovery that shares of stock have been transferred to the trustee will be paid by the recipient to the trustee upon demand. Any dividend or other distribution authorized but unpaid will be paid when due to the trustee. The trustee will vote all shares-in-trust and, subject to Maryland law, effective as of the date that the shares-in-trust were transferred to the trustee, the trustee will have the authority to rescind as void any vote cast by the proposed transferee prior to our discovery that the shares have been transferred to the trust and to recast the vote in accordance with the desires of the trustee acting for the benefit of the beneficiary. However, if we have already taken irreversible corporate action, then the trustee will not have the authority to rescind and recast the vote.
Within 20 days of receiving notice from us that shares of our stock have been transferred to the trust, the trustee will sell the shares to a person designated by the trustee whose ownership of the shares will not violate the above ownership limitations. Upon the sale, the interest of the beneficiary in the shares sold will terminate and the trustee will distribute the net proceeds of the sale to the record holder of the shares that are designated as shares-in-trust (the “Prohibited Owner”), and to the beneficiary as follows. The Prohibited Owner generally will receive from the trust the lesser of:
| · | the price per share such Prohibited Owner paid for the shares of capital stock that were designated as shares-in-trust or, in the case of a gift or devise, the market price per share on the date of the event causing such transfer; or |
| · | the price per share received by the trust from the sale of such shares-in-trust, net of any commissions and other expenses of sale. |
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The trustee may reduce the amount payable to the Prohibited Owner by the amount of dividends and other distributions that have been paid to the Prohibited Owner and are owed by the Prohibited Owner to the trustee. The trust will distribute to the beneficiary any amounts received by the trust in excess of the amounts to be paid to the Prohibited Owner. If, prior to our discovery that shares of our stock have been transferred to the trust, the shares are sold by the proposed transferee, then the shares will be deemed to have been sold on behalf of the trust and, to the extent that the Prohibited Owner received an amount for the shares that exceeds the amount the Prohibited Owner was entitled to receive, the excess shall be paid to the trustee upon demand.
In addition, the shares-in-trust will be deemed to have been offered for sale to us, or our designee, at a price per share equal to the lesser of:
| · | the price per share in the transaction that created such shares-in-trust or, in the case of a gift or devise, the market price per share on the date of such gift or devise; or |
| · | the market price per share on the date that we, or our designee, accepts such offer. |
We may reduce the amount payable to the Prohibited Owner by the amount of dividends and other distributions that have been paid to the Prohibited Owner and are owed by the Prohibited Owner to the trustee. We may pay the amount of such reduction to the trustee for the benefit of the beneficiary.
“Market price” on any date means the closing price for our stock on such date. The “closing price” refers to the last sale price, regular way as reported by the primary securities exchange or market on which our stock is then listed or quoted for trading. If our stock is not so listed or quoted at the time of determination of the market price, our board of directors will determine the market price.
If you acquire or attempt or intend to acquire shares of our capital stock in violation of the foregoing restrictions, or if you owned common or preferred stock that was transferred to a trust, then we will require you to give us immediate written notice of such event or, in the case of a proposed or attempted transaction, at least 15 days’ written notice, and to provide us with such other information as we may request in order to determine the effect, if any, of such transfer on our status as a REIT.
If you own, directly or indirectly, 5% or more, or such lower percentages as required under the U.S. federal income tax laws, of our outstanding shares of stock, then you must, upon request following the end of each taxable year, provide to us a written statement or affidavit stating your name and address, the number of shares of capital stock owned directly or indirectly, and a description of how such shares are held. In addition, each direct or indirect stockholder must provide to us such additional information as we may request in order to determine the effect, if any, of such ownership on our qualification as a REIT and to ensure compliance with the 9.8% Ownership Limitation.
The 9.8% Ownership Limitation generally will not apply to the acquisition of shares of capital stock by an underwriter that participates in a public offering of such shares. In addition, our board of directors, upon receipt of a ruling from the IRS or an opinion of counsel and upon such other conditions as our board of directors may direct, including the receipt of certain representations and undertakings required by our charter, may exempt (prospectively or retroactively) a person from the ownership limit and establish or increase an excepted holder limit for such person. The 9.8% Ownership Limitation will continue to apply until our board of directors determines that it is no longer in the best interests of our company to attempt to qualify, or to continue to qualify, as a REIT or that compliance is no longer required for REIT qualification.
All certificates, if any, representing our common or preferred stock, will bear a legend referring to the restrictions described above or a legend that we will furnish a full statement about these restrictions on request and without charge.
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The ownership limit in our charter may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a takeover or other transaction or change in control of our company that might involve a premium price for your shares or otherwise be in your interest as a stockholder. The restrictions on ownership and transfer of our stock described above could delay, defer or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might involve a premium price for our common stock or otherwise be in the best interests of our stockholders.
Class C Common Stock
Our Class C common stock will be equivalent in all material respects to, and rank on parity with, our common stock, except that each share of Class C common stock will entitle the holder thereof to up to fifty votes. A holder of Class C common stock will not be entitled to a number of votes in excess of the number of its direct and indirect economic interests in the Operating Partnership. Therefore, no holder of Class C common stock will have a number of votes in respect of its shares of Class C common stock that exceeds the number of shares of Class C common stock, C-LTIP units, LTIP units, C-OP units and OP units beneficially owned by such holder. In order to implement this limitation, the number of votes per share of Class C common stock beneficially owned by a holder will equal the lesser of: (x) 50 and (y) (A) (1) the number of shares of Class C common stock beneficially owned by such holder plus (2) the number of C-LTIP units beneficially owned by such holder plus (3) the regular number of LTIP units beneficially owned by such holder plus (4) the number of C-OP units beneficially owned by such holder plus (5) the number of OP units beneficially owned by such holder divided by (B) the number of shares of Class C common stock beneficially owned by such holder.
Shares of our Class C common stock may be converted, or automatically convert, in certain circumstances to shares of our common stock on a one-for-one basis. Subject to the preferential rights, if any, of holders of any class or series of our stock other than our common stock and to the provisions of our charter regarding the restrictions on the ownership and transfer of stock, the holders of our Class C common stock will be entitled to receive distributions authorized by our board of directors and declared by us out of legally available funds after payment of, or provision for, full cumulative distributions on and any required redemptions of shares of any series of preferred stock then outstanding.
Preferred Stock
Our charter will authorize our board of directors, without further stockholder action, to provide for the issuance of up to [ ] shares of preferred stock, in one or more classes or series, with such terms, preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or other distributions, qualifications and terms or conditions of redemption, as our board of directors may approve, subject to certain restrictions.
If any preferred stock is publicly offered, the terms and conditions of such preferred stock, including any convertible preferred stock, will be set forth in articles supplementary and described in a prospectus supplement relating to the issuance of such preferred stock, if such preferred stock is registered. Because our board of directors will have the power to establish the preferences and rights of each class or series of preferred stock, it may afford the holders of any series or class of preferred stock preferences, powers, and rights senior to the rights of holders of common stock or other preferred stock, subject to certain restrictions. If we ever authorize, create and issue additional preferred stock with a distribution preference over common stock or preferred stock, payment of any distribution preferences of new outstanding preferred stock would reduce the amount of funds available for the payment of distributions on the common stock and junior preferred stock. Further, holders of preferred stock are normally entitled to receive a preference payment if we liquidate, dissolve, or wind up before any payment is made to the common stockholders, likely reducing the amount common stockholders and junior preferred stockholders, if any, would otherwise receive upon such an occurrence. In addition, under certain circumstances, the issuance of additional preferred stock may delay, prevent, render more difficult or tend to discourage the following:
| · | a merger tender offer, or proxy contest; |
| · | the assumption of control by a holder of a large block of our securities; or |
| · | the removal of incumbent management. |
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Also, subject to certain restrictions, our board of directors, without stockholder approval, may issue additional preferred stock with voting and conversion rights that could adversely affect the holders of common stock or preferred stock.
Certain Provisions of Maryland Law and of Our Charter and Bylaws
Our Charter and Bylaws
Stockholder rights and related matters are governed by the MGCL and our charter and bylaws. Provisions of our charter and bylaws, which are summarized below, may make it more difficult to change the composition of our board of directors and may discourage or make more difficult any attempt by a person or group to obtain control of our company.
Our Board of Directors
Our board of directors immediately following the Distribution will consist of five directors. Our charter and bylaws will provide that the number of directors constituting our board of directors may be increased or decreased only by a majority vote of our board of directors, provided that the number of directors may not be decreased to fewer than the minimum number required under the MGCL (which is one).
Subject to the terms of any series of preferred stock then outstanding, any vacancy on our board of directors may be filled only by the vote of a majority of the remaining directors, even if the remaining directors do not constitute a quorum, and any director elected to fill a vacancy will serve for the remainder of the full term of the directorship in which the vacancy occurred. Any director may resign at any time and may be removed only for cause (to be defined in our charter), and then only by our stockholders entitled to cast at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast generally in the election of directors.
Each director will serve a term beginning on the date of his or her election and ending on the next annual meeting of the stockholders and when his or her successor is duly elected and qualifies. Because holders of common stock will have no right to cumulative voting for the election of directors, at each annual meeting of stockholders, the holders of the shares of common stock with a majority of the voting power of the common stock will be able to elect all of the directors. Because stockholders will not have cumulative voting rights, holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock will be able to elect our entire board of directors. Directors will be elected by a majority of the votes cast in an uncontested election and by a plurality of the votes cast in a contested election.
Removal of Directors
Any director may be removed only for cause (as defined in our charter), and then only by our stockholders entitled to cast at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast generally in the election of directors.
Business Combinations
Under the MGCL, certain “business combinations” (including a merger, consolidation, share exchange or, in certain circumstances, an asset transfer or issuance or reclassification of equity securities) between a Maryland corporation and an interested stockholder (defined as any person who beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 10% or more of the voting power of the corporation’s then outstanding voting stock or an affiliate or associate of the corporation who, at any time within the two-year period prior to the date in question, was the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of 10% or more of the voting power of the then-outstanding stock of the corporation) or an affiliate of such an interested stockholder are prohibited for five years after the most recent date on which the interested stockholder becomes an interested stockholder. A person is not an interested stockholder under the statute if the board of directors approved in advance the transaction by which the person otherwise would have become an interested stockholder. However, in approving a transaction, the board of directors may provide that its approval is subject to compliance, at or after the time of approval, with any terms and conditions determined by the board. After the five-year prohibition, any such business combination must be recommended by the board of directors of such corporation and approved by the affirmative vote of at least (1) 80% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of outstanding shares of voting stock of the corporation and (2) two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of voting stock of the corporation other than voting stock held by the interested stockholder with whom (or with whose affiliate) the business combination is to be effected or held by an affiliate or associate of the interested stockholder, unless, among other conditions, the corporation’s common stockholders receive a minimum price (as defined in the MGCL) for their shares and the consideration is received in cash or in the same form as previously paid by the interested stockholder for its shares. These provisions of the MGCL do not apply, however, to business combinations that are approved or exempted by a board of directors prior to the time that the interested stockholder becomes an interested stockholder.
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Pursuant to the statute, we expect board of directors to opt out of these provisions of the MGCL, provided that the business combination is first approved by our board of directors, in which case, the five-year prohibition and the super-majority vote requirements will not apply to business combinations between us and any person. However, such resolution can be altered or repealed, in whole or in part, at any time by our board of directors. As a result, any person may be able to enter into business combinations with us that may not be in the best interest of our stockholders without compliance by our company with the super-majority vote requirements and the other provisions of the statute.
Control Share Acquisitions
The MGCL provides that “control shares” of a Maryland corporation acquired in a “control share acquisition” have no voting rights except to the extent approved at a special meeting by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, excluding shares of stock in a corporation in respect of which any of the following persons is entitled to exercise or direct the exercise of the voting power of shares of stock of the corporation in the election of directors:
| · | a person who makes or proposes to make a control share acquisition; |
| · | an officer of the corporation; or |
| · | an employee of the corporation who is also a director of the corporation. |
“Control shares” are voting shares of stock which, if aggregated with all other such shares of stock previously acquired by the acquiror or in respect of which the acquiror is able to exercise or direct the exercise of voting power (except solely by virtue of a revocable proxy), would entitle the acquiror to exercise voting power in electing directors within one of the following ranges of voting power:
| · | one-tenth or more, but less than one-third; |
| · | one-third or more, but less than a majority; or |
| · | a majority or more of all voting power. |
Control shares do not include shares the acquiring person is then entitled to vote as a result of having previously obtained stockholder approval or shares acquired directly from the corporation. A “control share acquisition” means the acquisition of issued and outstanding control shares, subject to certain exceptions.
A person who has made or proposes to make a control share acquisition, upon satisfaction of certain conditions (including an undertaking to pay expenses), may compel our board of directors to call a special meeting of stockholders to be held within 50 days of demand to consider the voting rights of the shares. If no request for a meeting is made, the corporation may itself present the question at any stockholders meeting.
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If voting rights are not approved at the meeting or if the acquiring person does not deliver an acquiring person statement as required by the statute, then, subject to certain conditions and limitations, the corporation may redeem any or all of the control shares (except those for which voting rights have previously been approved) for fair value determined without regard to the absence of voting rights for the control shares, as of the date of any meeting of stockholders at which the voting rights of such shares are considered and not approved, or, if no such meeting is held, as of the date of the last control share acquisition by the acquiror. If voting rights for control shares are approved at a stockholders meeting and the acquiror becomes entitled to vote a majority of the shares entitled to vote, all other stockholders may exercise appraisal rights. The fair value of the shares as determined for purposes of such appraisal rights may not be less than the highest price per share paid by the acquiror in the control share acquisition.
The control share acquisition statute does not apply to (1) shares acquired in a merger, consolidation or share exchange if the corporation is a party to the transaction, or (2) acquisitions approved or exempted by the charter or bylaws of the corporation.
Our bylaws will contain a provision exempting from the control share acquisition statute any and all acquisitions by any person of our stock. We cannot assure you that such provision will not be amended or eliminated at any time in the future.
Subtitle 8
Subtitle 8 of Title 3 of the MGCL permits a Maryland corporation with a class of equity securities registered under the Exchange Act and at least three independent directors to elect to be subject, by provision in its charter or bylaws or a resolution of its board of directors and notwithstanding any contrary provision in the charter or bylaws, to any or all of the following five provisions:
| · | a classified board; |
| · | a two-thirds vote requirement for removing a director; |
| · | a requirement that the number of directors be fixed only by vote of the directors; |
| · | a requirement that a vacancy on the board be filled only by the remaining directors and for the remainder of the full term of the directorship in which the vacancy occurred; and |
| · | a majority requirement for the calling of a stockholder-requested special meeting of stockholders. |
We expect to elect to be subject to the provisions of Subtitle 8 that require that vacancies on our board of directors may be filled only by the remaining directors and that any director elected by the board of directors shall serve for the remainder of the full term of the directorship in which the vacancy occurred. Through provisions in our charter and bylaws unrelated to Subtitle 8, we will vest in our board of directors the exclusive power to fix the number of directorships and require, unless called by the president, the chief executive officer, the chairman of the board or our board of directors, the request of stockholders entitled to cast at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on any matter that may properly be considered at a meeting of stockholders to call a special meeting to act on such matter.
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Stockholders’ Meetings
An annual meeting of our stockholders will be held each year on the date and at the time and place, if any, set by our board of directors for the purpose of electing directors and for the transaction of such other business as may properly come before the meeting. A special meeting of our stockholders may be called in the manner to be provided in the bylaws, including by the president, the chief executive officer, the chairman of the board, or our board of directors, and, subject to certain procedural requirements to be set forth in our bylaws, must be called by the secretary to act on any matter that may properly be considered at a meeting of stockholders upon written request of stockholders entitled to cast at least a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on such matter at such meeting. Subject to the restrictions on ownership and transfer of stock contained in our charter and the terms of any class or series of any series of preferred stock then outstanding and except as may otherwise be specified in our charter, at any meeting of the stockholders, each outstanding share of common stock will entitle the owner of record thereof on the applicable record date to cast one vote on all matters voted on by common stockholders, including the election of directors and each outstanding share of Class C common stock will entitle the owner of record thereof on the applicable record date to cast up to fifty votes per share on each matter on which holders of common stock are entitled to vote. In general, the presence in person or by proxy of a majority of our outstanding shares of common stock entitled to vote will constitute a quorum, and any matter approved by our stockholders by the vote required under the MGCL, our charter or our bylaws, as applicable, will be binding on all of our stockholders.
Amendments to Our Charter and Bylaws
Except for those amendments permitted to be made without stockholder approval under Maryland law or our charter, our charter generally may be amended only if the amendment is approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast a majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter without the necessity for concurrence by our board of directors.
Our board of directors will have the exclusive power to adopt, alter or repeal any provision of our bylaws and to make new bylaws.
Exclusive Forum
Our bylaws will provide that, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland, or, if that court does not have jurisdiction, the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, Northern Division, will be the sole and exclusive forum for (a) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, (b) any action asserting a claim of breach of any duty owed by any of our directors, officers or other employees to us or to our stockholders, (c) any action asserting a claim against us or any of our directors, officers or other employees arising pursuant to any provision of the MGCL or our charter or bylaws, or (d) any action asserting a claim against us or any of our directors, officers or other employees that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine. Section 27 of the Exchange Act creates exclusive federal jurisdiction over all suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Exchange Act or the rules and regulations thereunder. As a result, the foregoing exclusive forum provision will not apply to suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Exchange Act, and the Company does not intend for the exclusive forum provision to apply to such Exchange Act claims. The foregoing exclusive forum provision could apply, however, to a suit that asserts claims under the Securities Act, inasmuch as Section 22 of the Securities Act creates concurrent jurisdiction for federal and state courts over all suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Securities Act. That said, there is uncertainty as to whether a court would enforce such an exclusive forum provision with respect to such claims under the Securities Act.
Transactions Outside the Ordinary Course of Business
Under the MGCL, a Maryland corporation generally is not entitled to dissolve, merge or consolidate with, or convert into, another entity, sell all or substantially all of its assets or engage in a statutory share exchange unless the action is declared advisable by the board of directors and approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast at least two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, unless a lesser percentage (but not less than a majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter) is specified in the corporation’s charter. Our charter will provide that the corporation may be dissolved under the MGCL at any time by the affirmative vote of a majority of our entire board of directors and of stockholders entitled to cast at least a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Our Operating Partnership has a perpetual existence.
Advance Notice of Director Nominations and New Business
Our bylaws will provide that with respect to an annual meeting of stockholders, nominations of individuals for election to the board of directors and the proposal of business to be considered by stockholders may be made only (1) pursuant to our notice of the meeting, (2) by or at the direction of the board of directors, or (3) by a stockholder who is a stockholder of record at the record date for the meeting, at the time of giving the advance notice required by our bylaws and at the time of the meeting (and any adjournment or postponement thereof), who is entitled to vote at the meeting in the election of each individual so nominated or on such other business and who has complied with the advance notice procedures of the bylaws.
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With respect to special meetings of stockholders, only the business specified in our notice of the meeting may be brought before the meeting. Nominations of individuals for election to the board of directors at a special meeting may be made only (1) by or at the direction of the board of directors, or (2) provided that the special meeting has been called in accordance with our bylaws for the purpose of electing directors, by a stockholder who is a stockholder of record at the record date for the meeting, at the time of giving the advance notice required by our bylaws and at the time of the meeting (and any adjournment or postponement thereof), who is entitled to vote at the meeting in the election of each individual so nominated and who has complied with the advance notice provisions of the bylaws.
The advance notice procedures of our bylaws will provide that, to be timely, a stockholder’s notice with respect to director nominations or other proposals for an annual meeting must be delivered to our corporate secretary at our principal executive office not earlier than the 150th day nor later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the 120th day prior to the first anniversary of the date of the proxy statement for our preceding year’s annual meeting. In the event that the date of the annual meeting is advanced or delayed by more than 30 days from the first anniversary of the date of the preceding year’s annual meeting, to be timely, a stockholder’s notice must be delivered not earlier than the 150th day prior to the date of the annual meeting and not later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the later of the 120th day prior to the date of the annual meeting or the tenth day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made.
REIT Qualification
Our charter will provide that our board of directors may revoke or otherwise terminate our REIT election, without approval of our stockholders, if it determines that it is no longer in our best interests to continue to qualify as a REIT.
Effects of Certain Provisions of Maryland Law and of Our Charter and Bylaws
Our charter and bylaws will contain certain provisions that could make it more difficult to acquire control of the Company by means of a tender offer, a proxy contest or otherwise. These provisions are expected to discourage certain types of coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids and to encourage persons seeking to acquire control of the company to negotiate first with our board of directors. We believe that these provisions increase the likelihood that proposals initially will be on more attractive terms than would be the case in their absence and facilitate negotiations that may result in improvement of the terms of an initial offer that might involve a premium price for our capital stock or otherwise be in the best interest of our stockholders.
Indemnification and Limitation of Directors’ and Officers’ Liability
The MGCL permits us to include in our charter a provision eliminating the liability of our directors and officers to us and our stockholders for money damages, except for liability resulting from (1) actual receipt of an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services, or (2) active and deliberate dishonesty established by a final judgment and which is material to the cause of action. Our charter will contain such a provision eliminating such liability to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law.
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The MGCL requires a corporation (unless its charter provides otherwise, which our charter will not do) to indemnify a director or officer who has been successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of any proceeding to which he or she is made or threatened to be made a party by reason of his or her service in that capacity and permits a corporation to indemnify its present and former directors and officers, among others, against judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and reasonable expenses actually incurred by them in connection with any proceeding to or in which they may be made or threatened to be made a party or witness by reason of their service in those or other capacities unless it is established that:
| · | the act or omission of the director or officer was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and (1) was committed in bad faith or (2) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty; |
| · | the director or officer actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services; or |
| · | in the case of any criminal proceeding, the director or officer had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful. |
The MGCL prohibits us from indemnifying a director or officer who has been adjudged liable in a suit by us or on our behalf or in which the director or officer was adjudged liable on the basis that a personal benefit was improperly received. A court may order indemnification if it determines that the director or officer is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification, even though the director or officer did not meet the prescribed standard of conduct or was adjudged liable on the basis that personal benefit was improperly received; however, indemnification for an adverse judgment in a suit by us or on our behalf, or for a judgment of liability on the basis that personal benefit was improperly received, is limited to expenses.
The MGCL permits a Maryland corporation to advance reasonable expenses to a director or officer upon receipt of a written affirmation by the director or officer of his or her good faith belief that he or she has met the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification and a written undertaking by him or her or on his or her behalf to repay the amount paid or reimbursed if it is ultimately determined that the standard of conduct was not met.
Our charter will authorize us to obligate ourselves to indemnify and, without requiring a preliminary determination of the ultimate entitlement to indemnification, pay or reimburse reasonable expenses in advance of final disposition of a proceeding to our directors and our officers (including any director or officer who is or was serving at the request of our company as a director, officer, partner, member, manager or trustee of another corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise) and to any external manager acting as an agent of the Company. In addition, our charter will permit us, with the approval of our board of directors, to provide such indemnification and advancement of expenses to any individual who served a predecessor of us in any of the capacities described above and to any employee or agent of us or a predecessor of us.
However, the SEC takes the position that indemnification against liabilities arising under the Securities Act is against public policy and unenforceable.
We will enter into indemnification agreements with our current directors and executive officers that will provide for indemnification to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law.
Sale of Unregistered Securities
On December 16, Bluerock Homes issued 1000 shares of its common stock to Bluerock Residential pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act. Bluerock Homes did not register the issuance of the issued shares under the Securities Act because such issuance did not constitute a public offering.
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MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
The following is a general discussion of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Distribution to U.S. holders and non-U.S. holders (each as defined below) of shares of Bluerock Residential common stock (which, for purposes of this discussion under “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences” includes both Bluerock Residential Class A common stock and Bluerock Residential Class C common stock), Bluerock Homes’ election to be taxed as a REIT, and the ownership and disposition of shares of Bluerock Homes common stock (which, for purposes of this discussion under “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences” includes both Bluerock Homes Class A common stock and Bluerock Homes Class C common stock) to U.S. holders and non-U.S. holders (each, as defined below). This discussion is based on the Code, the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, judicial and administrative interpretations thereof, and other administrative interpretations and practices of the IRS, all as in effect as of the date hereof, and all of which are subject to differing interpretations and may change at any time, possibly with retroactive effect. Any such change or differing interpretation could affect the accuracy of the statements and conclusions set forth in this discussion. No assurance can be given that the IRS would not assert, or that a court would not sustain, a position contrary to any of the tax consequences described below. We have not sought and will not seek an advance ruling from the IRS regarding any matter discussed in this section. This summary assumes that the Distribution and the Merger will be consummated in accordance with the Separation and Distribution Agreement and the Merger Agreement and as described in this information statement.
The following discussion applies only to U.S. holders and non-U.S. holders of shares of Bluerock Residential common stock or of shares of Bluerock Homes common stock received in the Distribution, in each case, who hold such shares as a capital asset within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code (generally, property held for investment). This discussion also does not address the U.S. federal income tax consequences to Bluerock Residential stockholders who purchase or sell their Bluerock Residential common stock between the record date and the distribution date. Further, this discussion is for general information purposes only and does not purport to address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to specific holders in light of their particular facts and circumstances, nor does it address the consequences to holders subject to special treatment under the U.S. federal income tax laws, such as, for example:
| · | persons acting as nominees or otherwise not as beneficial owners; |
| · | dealers, brokers or traders in securities or currencies; |
| · | broker-dealers; |
| · | traders in securities that elect to use the mark to market method of accounting; |
| · | tax-exempt entities and organizations; |
| · | cooperatives; |
| · | banks, trusts, financial institutions, mutual funds or insurance companies; |
| · | retirement plans, individual retirement accounts or other tax-deferred or advantaged accounts (or persons holding common shares through such plans or accounts); |
| · | persons who acquired shares of Bluerock Residential common stock pursuant to the exercise of employee equity awards, through a tax qualified retirement plan or otherwise as compensation; |
| · | stockholders who own or have owned at any time, or are deemed to own or to have owned at any time, directly, indirectly or constructively, at least 5% or more, by voting power or value, of Bluerock Residential common stock; |
| · | holders owning Bluerock Residential common stock as part of a position in a straddle or as part of a hedging, conversion, constructive sale, synthetic security, integrated investment, or other risk reduction transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes; |
| · | holders subject to the income recognition rules of Section 451(b) of the code; |
| · | holders that also own (directly, indirectly or constructively) stock of Badger Parent; |
| · | regulated investment companies; |
| · | REITs; |
| · | “qualified foreign pension funds” (within the meaning of Section 897(l)(2) of the Code) or entities all of the interests in which are held by a qualified pension fund; |
| · | “qualified shareholders” (within the meaning of Section 897(k)(3) of the Code) or investors therein; |
| · | former citizens or former long-term residents of the United States; |
| · | holders who are subject to the alternative minimum tax; |
| · | controlled foreign corporations or passive foreign investment companies; |
| · | U.S. holders whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar; |
| · | pass-through entities (such as entities treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes); or |
| · | persons that own Bluerock Residential common stock through partnerships or other pass-through entities. |
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Moreover, this discussion is not a complete description of all of the tax consequences of the Distribution and, in particular, does not address any tax consequences arising under the unearned income Medicare contribution tax pursuant to the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, any considerations in respect of any withholding requirements pursuant to the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act of 2010 (including the Treasury Regulations and administrative guidance thereunder and intergovernmental agreements entered into in connection therewith and any laws, regulations or practices adopted in connection with any such agreement) or any state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences, nor does it address any U.S. federal tax considerations other than those pertaining to the income tax (except as expressly stated herein).
For purposes of this discussion, a U.S. holder is a beneficial owner of Bluerock Residential common stock or of Bluerock Homes common stock received in the Distribution, as applicable, that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:
| · | an individual who is a citizen or a resident of the United States; |
| · | a corporation, or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, created or organized under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia; |
| · | an estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or |
| · | a trust (1) with respect to which a court within the United States is able to exercise primary jurisdiction over its administration and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all of its substantial decisions, or (2) that has a valid election is in place under applicable Treasury Regulations to be treated as a U.S. person. |
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For purposes of this discussion, a non-U.S. holder is a beneficial owner of Bluerock Residential common stock or of Bluerock Homes common stock received in the Distribution, as applicable, that is neither a U.S. holder nor an entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
If a partnership (or any other entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds shares of Bluerock Residential common stock or shares of Bluerock Homes common stock received in the Distribution, the tax treatment of a partner in that partnership generally will depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Such a partner or partnership is urged to consult its tax advisor as to the tax consequences of the Distribution.
DETERMINING THE ACTUAL TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE DISTRIBUTION TO YOU MAY BE COMPLEX AND WILL DEPEND ON YOUR SPECIFIC SITUATION. HOLDERS ARE URGED TO CONSULT WITH THEIR TAX ADVISORS AS TO THE SPECIFIC U.S. FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL, AND NON-U.S. TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE DISTRIBUTION IN LIGHT OF THEIR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES AND THE EFFECT OF POSSIBLE CHANGES IN LAW THAT MIGHT AFFECT THE TAX CONSEQUENCES DESCRIBED IN THIS INFORMATION STATEMENT.
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution
Tax Classification of the Distribution in General
It is expected that (A) the distribution of Bluerock Homes common stock to Bluerock Residential stockholders pursuant to the Distribution and (B) the Merger will be treated as part of a prearranged, integrated plan for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and that for such purposes, the Distribution and the Merger will be viewed together as (i) the adoption by Bluerock Residential of a plan of liquidation, (ii) a sale by Bluerock Residential of a portion of its assets to Badger Parent and (iii) and a distribution by Bluerock Residential of the Bluerock Homes common stock distributed in the Distribution and of the cash consideration payable in connection with the Merger to the Bluerock Residential stockholders in complete liquidation of Bluerock Residential.
There can be no assurance that the IRS will agree with the treatment of the Distribution and Merger described above. If the IRS were to successfully challenge this treatment, it is possible that the Distribution would instead be treated as a taxable distribution separate from the deemed liquidation of Bluerock Residential pursuant to the Merger. In such case, an amount equal to the fair market value of Bluerock Homes common stock received by a Bluerock Residential stockholder will generally be treated as a taxable dividend to the extent of such Bluerock Residential stockholder’s ratable share of any current or accumulated earnings and profits of Bluerock Residential (including any earnings and profits attributable to gain recognized by Bluerock Residential in connection with the Separation, Distribution and the Merger), with the excess treated as a nontaxable return of capital to the extent of such Bluerock Residential stockholder’s tax basis in its shares of Bluerock Residential common stock and any remaining excess treated as capital gain. In addition, Bluerock Residential or other applicable withholding agents may be required or permitted to withhold at the applicable rate at all or a portion of the Distribution payable to non-U.S. holders. The remainder of this discussion assumes that the Distribution will be treated as described in the first paragraph above.
Although Bluerock Residential will ascribe a value to the shares of our common stock distributed in the Distribution, this valuation is not binding on the IRS or any other taxing authority. These taxing authorities could ascribe a higher valuation to the distributed Bluerock Homes shares, particularly if, following the Distribution, those shares trade at prices significantly above the value ascribed to those shares by Bluerock Residential. Such a higher valuation may affect the distribution amount and thus the tax consequences of the Distribution to Bluerock Residential’s stockholders.
Tax Consequences of the Distribution to U.S. Holders of Bluerock Residential Common Stock
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Distribution, taken together with the receipt of cash pursuant to the Merger, is expected to be treated as a distribution in complete liquidation of Bluerock Residential and a fully taxable transaction. In general, a U.S. holder will recognize capital gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference, if any, between (1) the sum of (A) the amount of cash received with respect to such U.S. holder’s Bluerock Residential shares in the Merger plus (B) the fair market value, determined when the Distribution occurs, of the Bluerock Homes shares received in the Distribution, and (2) such U.S. holder’s adjusted tax basis in its Bluerock Residential shares.
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Gain or loss generally will be determined separately for each block of shares of Bluerock Residential common stock (i.e., shares of Bluerock Residential common stock acquired at the same cost in a single transaction). Such gain or loss will be capital gain or loss and generally will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. holder held the shares of Bluerock Residential common stock for more than one year at the time of the Distribution and the Merger. Long-term capital gains of non-corporate U.S. holders (including individuals) are generally eligible for reduced rates of taxation. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations.
A U.S. holder who has held Bluerock Residential common shares for less than six months at the time of the Distribution (and the Merger), taking into account the holding period rules of Sections 246(c)(3) and (4) of the Code, and who recognizes a loss on the exchange of such Bluerock Residential common shares in the Distribution (and the Merger) will be treated as recognizing a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends received from us, or such holder’s share of any designated retained capital gains, with respect to such shares.
A U.S. holder’s tax basis in shares of Bluerock Homes common stock received in the Distribution generally will equal the fair market value of such shares on the date of the Distribution, and the U.S. holder’s holding period for such shares will begin the day after the date of the Distribution.
Any cash received by a U.S. holder in lieu of a fractional share of Bluerock Homes common stock in connection with the Distribution should be treated as if such fractional share had been (i) received by the U.S. holder as part of the Distribution and then (ii) sold by such U.S. holder for the amount of cash received. Because the basis of the fractional share deemed received by a U.S. holder in the Distribution will equal the fair market value of such factional share on the Distribution date, a U.S. holder generally should not recognize additional gain or loss on the transaction described in clause (ii) of the preceding sentence unless the fractional share is sold at a price different from its fair market value on the Distribution date.
Tax Consequences of the Distribution to Non-U.S. Holders of Bluerock Residential Common Stock
General. The U.S. federal income tax consequences to a non-U.S. holder of distributions and payments made with respect to such non-U.S. holder’s Bluerock Residential common stock in connection with the Distribution (and the Merger) will depend on various factors, including whether the receipt of such distributions and payments are treated as distributions from Bluerock Residential that are attributable to gain from the sale of “United States real property interests” (“USRPIs”) pursuant to FIRPTA. The IRS announced in Notice 2007-55 that it intends to take the position that under current law a non-U.S. holder’s receipt of a liquidating distribution from a REIT (including distributions and payments made in connection with the Distribution and the Merger, which as noted, are expected to be treated as distributions in complete liquidation of Bluerock Residential for U.S. federal income tax purposes) is generally subject to tax under FIRPTA as a distribution to the extent attributable to gain from the sale of USRPIs. Although legislation effectively overriding Notice 2007-55 has previously been proposed, it is not possible to say if or when any such legislation will be enacted. Accordingly, we intend to take the position that distributions and payments made with respect to Bluerock Residential common stock pursuant to the Distribution (and the Merger) will be subject to tax in accordance with Notice 2007-55, subject to the 10% Exception, as described in more detail below. In general, the provisions governing the taxation of distributions by REITs can be less favorable to non-U.S. holders than the taxation of sales or exchanges of REIT stock by non-U.S. holders, and non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the application of these provisions.
Distribution of Gain from the Disposition of U.S. Real Property Interests. To the extent that the tax treatment set forth in Notice 2007-55 applies, and the 10% Exception described in the next paragraph below does not apply, then, to the extent that distributions and payments received by a non-U.S. holder with respect to such non-U.S. holder’s Bluerock Residential common stock pursuant to the Distribution (and the Merger) are treated as attributable to gain from the deemed or actual sale of Bluerock Residential’s USRPIs, such amounts will be treated as income effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business of the non-U.S. holder, and generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net basis. A corporate non-U.S. holder will also be subject to the 30% branch profits tax (or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty). In addition, 21% (or 20% to the extent provided in the Treasury Regulations) of any such amounts paid to a non-U.S. holder will be withheld and remitted to the IRS.
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Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Bluerock Residential common shares are considered “regularly traded” (within the meaning of the applicable Treasury Regulations) on an established securities market located in the United States and the non-U.S. holder did not hold more than 10% of such class of stock at any time during the one-year period ending on the date of the Distribution (and the Merger), which we refer to as the “10% Exception,” the tax treatment and consequences described above would not apply, and non-U.S. holders would instead be subject to the rules described below under “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences—Taxable Sale of Bluerock Residential Common Stock.” We believe that shares of Bluerock Residential Class A common stock are, and will be at the time of the Distribution (and the Merger), considered regularly traded on an established securities market located in the United States within the meaning of the applicable Treasury Regulations. Bluerock Residential Class C common shares are not, and will not be at the time of the Distribution (and the Merger), considered regularly traded on an established securities market located in the United States. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding tax consequences of the Distribution (and the Merger) to them.
Taxable Sale of Bluerock Residential Common Stock. If both (A) the tax treatment set forth in Notice 2007-55 were not to apply to a non-U.S. holder’s receipt of distributions and payments with respect to such non-U.S. holder’s common stock pursuant to the Distribution (and the Merger) and (B) either (1) the “publicly traded exception” (as described below) applies or (2) Bluerock Residential is a “domestically controlled qualified investment entity” (as described below), such that the Bluerock Residential common stock does not constitute USRPIs under FIRPTA with respect to such non-U.S. holder, then the non-U.S. holder should not be subject to tax on any gain recognized in connection with the Distribution (which, as described above under “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences—Tax Consequences of the Distribution to U.S. Holders of Bluerock Residential Common Stock” and subject to the discussion of Notice 2007-55 above, is generally expected to be treated as a distribution in complete liquidation of Bluerock Residential and, together with the receipt of cash consideration payable to a holder of Bluerock Residential common stock pursuant to the Merger, as amounts received in full payment in exchange for such holder’s Bluerock Residential common stock) unless: (a) the gain is effectively connected with the non-U.S. holder’s conduct of a trade or business in the United States, or, if required pursuant to an applicable income tax treaty, the gain is attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by the non-U.S. holder in the United States; or (b) the non-U.S. holder is an individual present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the Distribution (and the Merger) and certain other requirements are met.
The “publicly traded exception” applies to a non-U.S. holder if Bluerock Residential common stock is “regularly traded,” as defined by the applicable Treasury Regulations, and the non-U.S. holder has held 10% or less of the Bluerock Residential common stock at all times during the shorter of the period that the non-U.S. holder owned such stock or the five-year period ending on the date of the Distribution (and the Merger). We believe that shares of Bluerock Residential Class A common stock are, and will be at the time of the Distribution (and the Merger), considered regularly traded on an established securities market located in the United States within the meaning of the applicable Treasury Regulations. Bluerock Residential Class C common shares are not, and will not be at the time of the Distribution (and the Merger), considered regularly traded on an established securities market located in the United States.
Bluerock Residential will be a “domestically controlled qualified investment entity” at the time of the Distribution (and the Merger) if non-U.S. holders held directly or indirectly less than 50% in value of shares of Bluerock Residential stock at all times during the five-year period ending with the Distribution (and the Merger). While we believe that Bluerock Residential has been and currently is domestically controlled as of the date hereof, no assurances can be given that the actual ownership of our stock has been or will be sufficient for us to qualify as a “domestically controlled qualified investment entity” at the time of the Distribution (and the Merger).
A non-U.S. holder whose gain is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States (or, if an applicable income tax treaty requires, is attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by the non-U.S. holder in the United States) will generally be subject to U.S. federal income tax on such gain on a net basis in the same manner as a U.S. holder. In addition, a non-U.S. holder that is a corporation may be subject to the branch profits tax at a 30% rate (or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty) on such effectively connected gain described above.
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A non-U.S. holder who is an individual present in the United States for 183 days or more in the taxable year of the Distribution (and the Merger) and who meets certain other requirements will be subject to a flat 30% tax on the gain recognized in connection with the Distribution (and the Merger), which may be offset by certain U.S. source capital losses of the non-U.S. holder.
If a non-U.S. holder’s Bluerock Residential common stock constitutes a USRPI under FIRPTA, any gain recognized by such holder on a sale of such stock will be treated as income effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business of the non-U.S. holder and generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net basis in the same manner as a U.S. holder (and, in the case of a non-U.S. holder that is a corporation, the branch profits tax as described above).
Income Tax Treaties. If a non-U.S. holder is eligible for treaty benefits under an income tax treaty with the United States, the non-U.S. holder may be able to reduce or eliminate certain of the U.S. federal income tax consequences discussed above, such as the branch profits tax. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisor regarding possible benefits under an applicable income tax treaty.
U.S. Withholding Tax. As described above, it is not entirely clear whether the receipt of distributions and payments pursuant to the Distribution (and the Merger) by a non-U.S. holder will be treated as a sale or exchange of shares of Bluerock Residential common stock (if Notice 2007-55 does not apply) or as a distribution from Bluerock Residential that is attributable to gain from the deemed sale of Bluerock Residential’s USRPIs in the Distribution (and the Merger) (if Notice 2007-55 does apply and the holder does not qualify for the 10% Exception described above). Accordingly, Bluerock Residential intends to withhold, pursuant to FIRPTA, U.S. federal income tax at a rate of 21% (or 20% to the extent provided in applicable Treasury Regulations) from the portion of the consideration paid to a non-U.S. holder to the extent attributable to gains that Bluerock Residential recognizes from sales of USRPIs, unless such non-U.S. holder qualifies for the 10% Exception described above. A non-U.S. holder may be entitled to a refund or credit against the holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, with respect to any amount withheld pursuant to FIRPTA, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS on a timely basis. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisor regarding withholding tax considerations.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
Information reporting and backup withholding may apply to distributions and payments made in connection with the Distribution (and the Merger). Backup withholding will not apply, however, to a holder of Bluerock Residential common stock who (1) in the case of a U.S. holder, furnishes a correct taxpayer identification number (“TIN”), certifies that such holder is not subject to backup withholding on an IRS Form W-9, and otherwise complies with all applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules; (2) in the case of a non-U.S. holder, furnishes an applicable IRS Form W-8; or (3) provides proof that such holder is otherwise exempt from backup withholding and complies with other applicable rules and certification requirements. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be refunded or credited against a holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, so long as such holder furnishes the required information to the IRS in a timely manner.
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations Regarding Bluerock Homes’ Taxation as a REIT
The following is a general summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax considerations regarding Bluerock Homes’ election to be taxed as a REIT and the ownership and disposition of Bluerock Homes common stock. For purposes of this discussion, references to “we,” “our” and “us” mean only Bluerock Homes and do not include any of its subsidiaries or Bluerock Residential, except as otherwise indicated.
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Taxation of Bluerock Homes
From the time of our formation until the date of the Distribution, we will be treated as a “qualified REIT subsidiary” of Bluerock Residential. As described below, a corporation that is a “qualified REIT subsidiary” is not treated as a corporation separate from its parent REIT. We intend to elect be taxed as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws commencing with our initial taxable year ending December 31, 2022. We believe that, commencing with such taxable year, we will be organized and will operate so as to qualify us as a REIT, and we intend to continue to operate in such a manner, but no assurances can be given that we will operate in a manner so as to qualify or remain qualified as a REIT. This section discusses the laws governing the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a REIT and its securityholders. These laws are highly technical and complex.
As a condition to the Distribution, we expect to receive an opinion from Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. to the effect that, beginning with our taxable year ending December 31, 2022, we will be organized in conformity with the requirements for qualification and taxation as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws, and our intended method of operation will enable us to qualify as a REIT under the U.S. federal income tax laws for our taxable year ending December 31, 2022 and thereafter. Investors should be aware that Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.’s opinion will be based upon customary assumptions, representations and undertakings made by us and Bluerock Residential as to factual matters, is conditioned upon certain representations made by us as to factual matters, including representations regarding the nature of our and Bluerock Residential’s assets and the conduct of our and Bluerock Residential’s business. Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.’s will not be binding upon the IRS or any court, and will speak as of the date issued. In addition, Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.’s opinion will be based on existing U.S. federal income tax law governing qualification as a REIT, which is subject to change either prospectively or retroactively.
Moreover, our qualification and taxation as a REIT will depend upon our ability to meet on a continuing basis, through actual results, certain qualification tests set forth in the U.S. federal tax laws. Those qualification tests involve the percentage of income that we earn from specified sources, the percentage of our assets that falls within specified categories, the diversity of our capital stock ownership, and the percentage of our earnings that we distribute. Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. will not review our compliance with those tests on a continuing basis. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that our actual results of operations for any particular taxable year will satisfy such requirements. Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.’s opinion will not foreclose the possibility that we may have to use one or more of the REIT savings provisions described below, which could require us to pay an excise or penalty tax (which could be material) in order for us to maintain our REIT qualification. For a discussion of the tax consequences of our failure to qualify as a REIT, see “—Failure to Qualify.”
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As long as we qualify as a REIT, we generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the taxable income that we distribute to our stockholders. The benefit of that tax treatment is that it avoids the “double taxation,” or taxation at both the corporate and stockholder levels, that generally applies to distributions by a corporation to its stockholders. However, even if we qualify as a REIT, we will nonetheless be subject to U.S. federal tax in the following circumstances:
| · | We will pay U.S. federal income tax on any taxable income, including net capital gain, that we do not distribute to stockholders during, or within a specified time period after, the calendar year in which the income is earned. |
| · | We will pay income tax at the highest U.S. federal corporate income tax rate on: |
| · | net income from the sale or other disposition of property acquired through foreclosure (“foreclosure property”) that we hold primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business; and |
| · | other non-qualifying income from foreclosure property. |
| · | We will pay a 100% tax on our net income from sales or other dispositions of property, other than foreclosure property, that we hold primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business. |
| · | If we fail to satisfy one or both of the 75% gross income test or the 95% gross income test, as described below under “—Gross Income Tests,” and nonetheless continue to qualify as a REIT because we meet other requirements, we will pay a 100% tax on the gross income attributable to the greater of the amount by which we fail the 75% gross income test or the 95% gross income test, in either case, multiplied by a fraction intended to reflect our profitability. |
| · | If we fail to distribute during a calendar year at least the sum of (1) 85% of our REIT ordinary income for the year, (2) 95% of our REIT capital gain net income for the year, and (3) any undistributed taxable income required to be distributed from earlier periods, we will pay a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the excess of the required distribution over the amount we actually distributed. |
| · | We may elect to retain and pay income tax on our net long-term capital gain. In that case, a stockholder would be taxed on its proportionate share of our undistributed long-term capital gain (to the extent that we made a timely designation of such gain to the stockholder) and would receive a credit or refund for its proportionate share of the tax we paid. |
| · | We will be subject to a 100% excise tax on transactions with any TRS we may form in the future that are not conducted on an arm’s-length basis. |
| · | If we fail to satisfy any of the asset tests, other than a de minimis failure of the 5% asset test, the 10% vote test or the 10% value test, as described below under “—Asset Tests,” as long as the failure was due to reasonable cause and not to willful neglect, we file a description of each asset that caused such failure with the IRS, and we dispose of the assets causing the failure or otherwise comply with the asset tests within six months after the last day of the quarter in which we identify such failure, we will pay a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or the highest U.S. federal corporate income tax rate then applicable to U.S. corporations (currently 21%) on the net income from the nonqualifying assets during the period in which we failed to satisfy the asset tests. |
| · | If we fail to satisfy one or more requirements for REIT qualification, other than the gross income tests and the asset tests, and such failure is due to reasonable cause and not to willful neglect, we will be required to pay a penalty of $50,000 for each such failure. |
| · | If we acquire any asset from a C corporation, or a corporation that generally is subject to full corporate-level tax, in a merger or other transaction in which we acquire a basis in the asset that is determined by reference either to the C corporation’s basis in the asset or to another asset, we will pay tax at the highest applicable regular U.S. federal corporate income tax rate applicable if we recognize gain on the sale or disposition of the asset during the five-year period after we acquire the asset provided no election is made for the transaction to be taxable on a current basis. The amount of gain on which we will pay tax is the lesser of: |
| · | the amount of gain that we recognize at the time of the sale or disposition; and |
| · | the amount of gain that we would have recognized if we had sold the asset at the time we acquired it. |
| · | We may be required to pay monetary penalties to the IRS in certain circumstances, including if we fail to meet record-keeping requirements intended to monitor our compliance with rules relating to the composition of a REIT’s stockholders, as described below in “—Recordkeeping Requirements.” |
| · | The earnings of any lower-tier entities that are subchapter C corporations, including any TRSs, will be subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax. |
In addition, notwithstanding our qualification as a REIT, we may also have to pay certain state and local income taxes because not all states and localities treat REITs in the same manner that they are treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Moreover, as further described below, any TRSs will be subject to U.S. federal, state and local corporate income tax on their taxable income.
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Requirements for Qualification as a REIT
A REIT is a corporation, trust, or association that meets each of the following requirements:
| 1. | It is managed by one or more trustees or directors. |
| 2. | Its beneficial ownership is evidenced by transferable shares, or by transferable certificates of beneficial interest. |
| 3. | It would be taxable as a domestic corporation, but for the REIT provisions of the U.S. federal income tax laws. |
| 4. | It is neither a financial institution nor an insurance company subject to special provisions of the U.S. federal income tax laws. |
| 5. | At least 100 persons are beneficial owners of its shares or ownership certificates. |
| 6. | Not more than 50% in value of its outstanding shares or ownership certificates is owned, directly or indirectly, by five or fewer individuals, which the Code defines to include certain entities, during the last half of any taxable year. |
| 7. | It elects to be a REIT, or has made such election for a previous taxable year, and satisfies all relevant filing and other administrative requirements established by the IRS that must be met to elect and maintain REIT status. |
| 8. | It meets certain other qualification tests, described below, regarding the nature of its income and assets and the distribution of its income. |
| 9. | It uses a calendar year for U.S. federal income tax purposes and complies with the recordkeeping requirements of the U.S. federal income tax laws. |
| 10. | It has not been a party to a spin-off transaction that is tax-deferred under section 355 of the Code during the applicable period. |
We must meet requirements 1 through 4, 8 and 9 during our entire taxable year and must meet requirement 5 during at least 335 days of a taxable year of 12 months, or during a proportionate part of a taxable year of less than 12 months. Requirements 5 and 6 will apply to us beginning with our 2023 taxable year. If we comply with all the requirements for ascertaining the ownership of our outstanding shares in a taxable year and have no reason to know that we violated requirement 6, we will be deemed to have satisfied requirement 6 for that taxable year. For purposes of determining stock ownership under requirement 6, an “individual” generally includes a supplemental unemployment compensation benefits plan, a private foundation, or a portion of a trust permanently set aside or used exclusively for charitable purposes. An “individual,” however, generally does not include a trust that is a qualified employee pension or profit sharing trust under the U.S. federal income tax laws, and beneficiaries of such a trust will be treated as holding our shares in proportion to their actuarial interests in the trust for purposes of requirement 6.
Our charter will provide restrictions regarding the transfer and ownership of shares of our capital stock. See “Description of Our Capital Stock—Restrictions on Ownership and Transfer.” We believe that we will issue sufficient stock with sufficient diversity of ownership to allow us to satisfy requirements 5 and 6 above. The restrictions in our charter will be intended (among other things) to assist us in continuing to satisfy requirements 5 and 6 above. These restrictions, however, may not ensure that we will, in all cases, be able to satisfy such share ownership requirements. If we fail to satisfy these share ownership requirements, we may fail to qualify as a REIT.
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As noted above, from the time of our formation until the date of the Distribution, we will be treated as a “qualified REIT subsidiary” of Bluerock Residential. Under applicable Treasury regulations, if Bluerock Residential fails to qualify as a REIT in its 2022 taxable year, unless Bluerock Residential’s failure to qualify as a REIT was subject to relief under the U.S. federal income tax laws as described below under “—Failure to Qualify,” we would be prevented from electing to qualify as a REIT prior to the fifth calendar year following the year in which Bluerock Residential failed to qualify.
Qualified REIT Subsidiaries
A corporation that is a “qualified REIT subsidiary” is not treated as a corporation separate from its parent REIT. All assets, liabilities, and items of income, deduction, and credit of a “qualified REIT subsidiary” are treated as assets, liabilities, and items of income, deduction, and credit of the REIT. A “qualified REIT subsidiary” is a corporation, other than a TRS, all of the stock of which is owned by the REIT. Thus, in applying the requirements described herein, any “qualified REIT subsidiary” that we own will be ignored, and all assets, liabilities, and items of income, deduction, and credit of such subsidiary will be treated as our assets, liabilities, and items of income, deduction, and credit.
Other Disregarded Entities and Partnerships
An unincorporated domestic entity, such as a partnership or limited liability company that has a single owner for U.S. federal income tax purposes, generally is not treated as an entity separate from its owner for U.S. federal income tax purposes. An unincorporated domestic entity with two or more owners for U.S. federal income tax purposes is generally treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In the case of a REIT that is a partner in a partnership that has other partners, the REIT is treated as owning its proportionate share of the assets of the partnership and as earning its allocable share of the gross income of the partnership for purposes of the applicable REIT qualification tests. Our proportionate share for purposes of the 10% value test (see “—Asset Tests”) is based on our proportionate interest in the equity interests and certain debt securities issued by the partnership. For all of the other asset and income tests, our proportionate share is based on our proportionate interest in the capital interests in the partnership. Our proportionate share of the assets, liabilities, and items of income of any partnership, joint venture, or limited liability company that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes in which we acquire an equity interest, directly or indirectly, will be treated as our assets and gross income for purposes of applying the various REIT qualification requirements.
We may from time to time own limited partner or non-managing member interests in partnerships and limited liability companies that are joint ventures. If a partnership or limited liability company in which we own an interest takes or expects to take actions that could jeopardize our qualification as a REIT or require us to pay tax, we may be forced to dispose of our interest in such entity. In addition, it is possible that a partnership or limited liability company could take an action which could cause us to fail a gross income or asset test, and that we would not become aware of such action in time to dispose of our interest in the partnership or limited liability company or take other corrective action on a timely basis. In that case, we could fail to qualify as a REIT unless we were able to qualify for a statutory REIT “savings” provision, which could require us to pay a significant penalty tax to maintain our REIT qualification.
Taxable REIT Subsidiaries
A REIT may own up to 100% of the shares of one or more TRSs. A TRS is a fully taxable corporation that may earn income that would not be qualifying income if earned directly by the parent REIT. The subsidiary and the REIT must jointly elect to treat the subsidiary as a TRS. A corporation (other than a REIT) of which a TRS directly or indirectly owns more than 35% of the voting power or value of the securities will automatically be treated as a TRS. We will not be treated as holding the assets of a TRS or as receiving any income that the TRS earns. Rather, the stock issued by a TRS to us will be an asset in our hands, and we will treat the distributions paid to us from such TRS, if any, as income to the extent of the TRS’s earnings and profits. This treatment may affect our compliance with the gross income and asset tests. Because we will not include the assets and income of TRSs in determining our compliance with the REIT requirements, we may use such entities to undertake activities indirectly, such as earning fee income, that the REIT rules might otherwise preclude us from doing directly or through pass-through subsidiaries. Overall, no more than 20% of the value of a REIT’s assets may consist of stock or securities of one or more TRSs.
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A TRS pays income tax at regular corporate rates on any income that it earns. In addition, the TRS rules limit the deductibility of interest paid or accrued by a TRS to its parent REIT to assure that the TRS is subject to an appropriate level of corporate taxation. For example, deductions are disallowed for business interest expense (even if paid to third parties) in excess of the sum of a taxpayer’s business interest income and 30% of the adjusted taxable income of the business, which is its taxable income computed without regard to business interest income or expense, net operating losses (“NOLs”) or the pass-through income deductions (and for taxable years before 2022, excludes depreciation and amortization). Such limitations may also impact the amount of U.S. federal income tax paid by a TRS. Further, the rules impose a 100% excise tax on certain transactions between a TRS and its parent REIT or the REIT’s tenants that are not conducted on an arm’s-length basis.
A TRS may not directly or indirectly operate or manage any healthcare facilities or lodging facilities or provide rights to any brand name under which any healthcare facility or lodging facility is operated. A TRS is not considered to operate or manage a “qualified healthcare property” or “qualified lodging facility” solely because the TRS directly or indirectly possesses a license, permit, or similar instrument enabling it to do so.
Rent that we receive from a TRS will qualify as “rents from real property” as long as (1) at least 90% of the leased space in the property is leased to persons other than TRSs and related-party tenants, and (2) the amount paid by the TRS to rent space at the property is substantially comparable to rents paid by other tenants of the property for comparable space, as described in further detail below under “—Gross Income Tests—Rents from Real Property.” If we lease space to a TRS in the future, we will seek to comply with these requirements.
Gross Income Tests
We must satisfy two gross income tests annually to qualify as a REIT. First, at least 75% of our gross income for each taxable year must consist of defined types of income that we derive, directly or indirectly, from investments relating to real property or mortgages on real property or qualified temporary investment income. Qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test generally includes:
| · | rents from real property; |
| · | interest on debt secured by mortgages on real property, or on interests in real property; |
| · | dividends or other distributions on, and gain from the sale of, shares in other REITs; |
| · | gain from the sale of real estate assets, other than: |
| · | property held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business; and |
| · | debt instruments issued by a “publicly offered REIT” (i.e., a REIT that is required to file annual and periodic reports with the SEC under the Exchange Act), unless the debt instrument is secured by real property or an interest in real property; |
| · | income derived from the operation, and gain from the sale, of foreclosure property; |
| · | amounts (other than amounts the determination of which depends, in whole or in part, on the income or profits of any person) received or accrued as consideration for entering into agreements to make loans secured by mortgages on real property or interests in real property or to purchase or lease real property (including interests in real property and interests in mortgages on real property); and |
| · | income derived from the temporary investment of new capital that is attributable to the issuance of our stock or a public offering of our debt with a maturity date of at least five years and that we receive during the one-year period beginning on the date on which we received such new capital. |
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Second, in general, at least 95% of our gross income for each taxable year must consist of income that is qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test, other types of interest and dividends, gain from the sale or disposition of shares or securities, or any combination of these. Cancellation of indebtedness income (“COD income”) and gross income from our sale of property that we hold primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business are excluded from both the numerator and the denominator in both gross income tests. In addition, income and gain from “hedging transactions” that we enter into to hedge indebtedness incurred or to be incurred to acquire or carry real estate assets and that are clearly and timely identified as such will be excluded from both the numerator and the denominator for purposes of the 75% and 95% gross income tests. Finally, certain foreign currency gains will be excluded from gross income for purposes of one or both of the gross income tests. See “—Foreign Currency Gain.” The following paragraphs discuss the specific application of the gross income tests to us.
Rents from Real Property
Rent that we receive, including as a result of our ownership of preferred or common equity interests in a partnership that owns rental properties, from our real property will qualify as “rents from real property,” which is qualifying income for purposes of the 75% and 95% gross income tests, only if the following conditions are met:
| · | First, the rent must not be based, in whole or in part, on the income or profits of any person, but may be based on a fixed percentage or percentages of receipts or sales. |
| · | Second, neither we nor a direct or indirect owner of 10% or more of our stock may own, actually or constructively, 10% or more of a tenant from whom we receive rent, other than a TRS. |
| · | Third, if the rent attributable to personal property leased in connection with a lease of real property is 15% or less of the total rent received under the lease, then the rent attributable to personal property will qualify as rents from real property. The allocation of rent between real and personal property is based on the relative fair market values of the real and personal property. However, if the 15% threshold is exceeded, the rent attributable to personal property will not qualify as rents from real property. |
| · | Fourth, we generally must not operate or manage our real property or furnish or render services to our tenants, other than through an “independent contractor” who is adequately compensated and from whom we do not derive revenue. However, we need not provide services through an “independent contractor,” but instead may provide services directly to our tenants, if the services are “usually or customarily rendered” in connection with the rental of space for occupancy only and are not considered to be provided for the tenants’ convenience. In addition, we may provide a minimal amount of “noncustomary” services to the tenants of a property, other than through an independent contractor, as long as our income from the services (valued at not less than 150% of our direct cost of performing such services) does not exceed 1% of our income from the related property. Furthermore, we may own up to 100% of the stock of a TRS which may provide customary and noncustomary services to our tenants without tainting our rental income from the related properties. |
If a portion of the rent that we receive from a property does not qualify as “rents from real property” because the rent attributable to personal property exceeds 15% of the total rent for a taxable year, the portion of the rent that is attributable to personal property will not be qualifying income for purposes of either the 75% or 95% gross income test. Thus, if such rent attributable to personal property, plus any other income that is nonqualifying income for purposes of the 95% gross income test, during a taxable year exceeds 5% of our gross income during the year, we would lose our REIT qualification. If, however, the rent from a particular property does not qualify as “rents from real property” because either (1) the rent is considered based on the income or profits of the related tenant, (2) the tenant either is a related party tenant or fails to qualify for the exceptions to the related party tenant rule for qualifying TRSs, or (3) we furnish noncustomary services to the tenants of the property, or manage or operate the property, other than through a qualifying independent contractor or a TRS, none of the rent from that property would qualify as “rents from real property.”
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We intend to lease, through our Operating Partnership and its subsidiaries, substantially all our properties to tenants that are individuals. Our leases will typically have a term of at least one year and require the tenant to pay fixed rent. We do not anticipate leasing significant amounts of personal property pursuant to our leases. Moreover, we do not intend to perform any services other than customary ones for our tenants, unless such services are provided through independent contractors or a TRS. Accordingly, we believe that our leases will generally produce rent that qualifies as “rents from real property” for purposes of the 75% and 95% gross income tests.
In addition to the rent, the tenants may be required to pay certain additional charges. To the extent that such additional charges represent reimbursements of amounts that we are obligated to pay to third parties, such charges generally will qualify as “rents from real property.” To the extent that such additional charges represent penalties for nonpayment or late payment of such amounts, such charges should qualify as “rents from real property.” However, to the extent that late charges do not qualify as “rents from real property,” they instead will be treated as interest that qualifies for the 95% gross income test.
Interest
Interest income generally constitutes qualifying mortgage interest for purposes of the 75% gross income test to the extent that the obligation upon which such interest is paid is secured by a mortgage on real property or a mortgage on an interest in real property. Except as provided in the following sentence, if we receive interest income with respect to a mortgage loan that is secured by both real and other property, and the highest principal amount of the loan outstanding during a taxable year exceeds the fair market value of the real property on the date that we acquired or originated the mortgage loan, the interest income will be apportioned between the real property and the other collateral, and our income from the arrangement will qualify for purposes of the 75% gross income test only to the extent that the interest is allocable to the real property. In the case of real estate mortgage loans secured by both real and personal property, if the fair market value of such personal property does not exceed 15% of the total fair market value of all property securing the loan, then the personal property securing the loan will be treated as real property for purposes of determining whether the mortgage is qualifying under the 75% asset test and as producing interest income that qualifies for purposes of the 75% gross income test.
The term “interest” generally does not include any amount received or accrued, directly or indirectly, if the determination of such amount depends, in whole or in part, on the income or profits of any person. However, interest generally includes the following:
| · | an amount that is based on a fixed percentage or percentages of receipts or sales; and |
| · | an amount that is based on the income or profits of a debtor, as long as the debtor derives substantially all of its income from the real property securing the debt from leasing substantially all of its interest in the property, and only to the extent that the amounts received by the debtor would be qualifying “rents from real property” if received directly by a REIT. |
If a loan contains a provision that entitles a REIT to a percentage of the borrower’s gain upon the sale of the real property securing the loan or a percentage of the appreciation in the property’s value as of a specific date, income attributable to that loan provision will be treated as gain from the sale of the property securing the loan, which generally is qualifying income for purposes of both gross income tests.
We may originate mezzanine loans, which are loans secured by equity interests in an entity that directly or indirectly owns real property, rather than by a direct mortgage of the real property. In Revenue Procedure 2003-65, the IRS established a safe harbor under which loans secured by a first priority security interest in ownership interests in a partnership or limited liability company owning real property will be treated as real estate assets for purposes of the REIT asset tests described below, and interest derived from those loans will be treated as qualifying income for both the 75% and 95% gross income tests, provided that several requirements are satisfied. Although Revenue Procedure 2003-65 provides a safe harbor on which taxpayers may rely, it does not prescribe rules of substantive tax law. Moreover, we anticipate that any mezzanine loans we originate typically will not meet all of the requirements for reliance on the safe harbor. To the extent that any mezzanine loans that we originate do not qualify for the safe harbor described above, the interest income from the loans will be qualifying income for purposes of the 95% gross income test, but there is a risk that such interest income will not be qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test. We intend to invest in mezzanine loans in a manner that will enable us to continue to satisfy the REIT gross income and asset tests.
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Dividends
Our share of any dividends received from any corporation (including any TRS, but excluding any REIT) in which we own an equity interest will qualify for purposes of the 95% gross income test, but not for purposes of the 75% gross income test. Our share of any dividends received from any other REIT in which we own an equity interest, if any, will be qualifying income for purposes of both gross income tests.
Prohibited Transactions
A REIT will incur a 100% tax on the net income (including foreign currency gain) derived from any sale or other disposition of property, other than foreclosure property, that the REIT holds primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of a trade or business. We intend that none of our properties will be held primarily for sale to customers and that a sale of any of our properties will not be in the ordinary course of our business. However, there can be no assurance that the IRS would not disagree with that belief. Whether a REIT holds a property “primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of a trade or business” depends on the facts and circumstances in effect from time to time, including those related to a particular property. A safe harbor to the characterization of the sale of property that is a real estate asset by a REIT as a prohibited transaction and the 100% prohibited transaction tax is available if the following requirements are met:
| · | the REIT has held the property for not less than two years; |
| · | the aggregate expenditures made by the REIT, or any partner of the REIT, during the two-year period preceding the date of the sale that are includable in the adjusted basis of the property do not exceed 30% of the selling price of the property; |
| · | either (1) during the year in question, the REIT did not make more than seven sales of property other than foreclosure property or sales to which Section 1033 of the Code applies, or (2) the aggregate adjusted bases of all such properties sold by the REIT during the year did not exceed 10% of the aggregate bases of all of the assets of the REIT at the beginning of the year, or (3) the aggregate fair market value of all such properties sold by the REIT during the year did not exceed 10% of the aggregate fair market value of all of the assets of the REIT at the beginning of the year, or (4) (i) the aggregate adjusted basis of property sold during the year is 20% or less of the aggregate adjusted basis of all of our assets as of the beginning of the taxable year, and (ii) the aggregate adjusted basis of property sold during the three-year period ending with the year of sale is 10% or less of the aggregate tax basis of all of our assets as of the beginning of each of the three taxable years ending with the year of sale, or (5) (i) the aggregate fair market value of all such property sold by the REIT during the year did not exceed 20% of the aggregate fair market value of all property of the REIT at the beginning of the year and (ii) the average annual percentage of properties sold by the REIT compared to all the REIT’s properties (measured by fair market value) in the current and two prior years did not exceed 10%; |
| · | in the case of property not acquired through foreclosure or lease termination, the REIT has held the property for at least two years for the production of rental income; and |
| · | if the REIT has made more than seven sales of non-foreclosure property during the taxable year, substantially all of the marketing and development expenditures with respect to the property were made through an independent contractor from whom the REIT derives no income or a TRS. |
We will attempt to comply with the terms of the safe-harbor provisions in the U.S. federal income tax laws prescribing when a property sale will not be characterized as a prohibited transaction. We cannot assure you that we can comply with the safe-harbor provisions or that we will avoid owning property that might be characterized as property that we hold “primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of a trade or business.” The 100% tax will not apply to gains from the sale of property that is held through a TRS or other taxable corporation, although such income will be taxed to the corporation at regular corporate income tax rates.
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Fee Income
Fee income generally will not be qualifying income for purposes of both the 75% and 95% gross income tests. Any fees earned by a TRS will not be included for purposes of the gross income tests.
Foreclosure Property
We will be subject to tax at the maximum U.S. federal corporate income tax rate on any income from foreclosure property, which includes certain foreign currency gains and related deductions, other than income that otherwise would be qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test, less expenses directly connected with the production of that income. However, gross income from foreclosure property will qualify under the 75% and 95% gross income tests. Foreclosure property is any real property, including interests in real property, and any personal property incident to such real property:
| · | that is acquired by a REIT as the result of the REIT having bid on such property at foreclosure, or having otherwise reduced such property to ownership or possession by agreement or process of law, after there was a default or when default was imminent on a lease of such property or on indebtedness that such property secured; |
| · | for which the related loan was acquired by the REIT at a time when the default was not imminent or anticipated; and |
| · | for which the REIT makes a proper election to treat the property as foreclosure property. |
However, a REIT will not be considered to have foreclosed on a property where the REIT takes control of the property as a mortgagee-in-possession and cannot receive any profit or sustain any loss except as a creditor of the mortgagor. Property generally ceases to be foreclosure property at the end of the third taxable year (or, with respect to qualified healthcare property, the second taxable year) following the taxable year in which the REIT acquired the property, or longer if an extension is granted by the Secretary of the Treasury. However, this grace period terminates and foreclosure property ceases to be foreclosure property on the first day:
| · | on which a lease is entered into for the property that, by its terms, will give rise to income that does not qualify for purposes of the 75% gross income test, or any amount is received or accrued, directly or indirectly, pursuant to a lease entered into on or after such day that will give rise to income that does not qualify for purposes of the 75% gross income test; |
| · | on which any construction takes place on the property, other than completion of a building or any other improvement, where more than 10% of the construction was completed before default became imminent; or |
| · | which is more than 90 days after the day on which the REIT acquired the property and the property is used in a trade or business which is conducted by the REIT, other than through an independent contractor from whom the REIT itself does not derive or receive any income or through a TRS. |
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Hedging Transactions
From time to time, we or our Operating Partnership may enter into hedging transactions with respect to one or more of our assets or liabilities. Our hedging activities may include entering into interest rate swaps, caps, and floors, options to purchase such items, and futures and forward contracts. Income and gain from “hedging transactions” will be excluded from gross income for purposes of both the 75% and 95% gross income tests, provided that we satisfy the indemnification requirements discussed below. A “hedging transaction” means either (1) any transaction entered into in the normal course of our or our Operating Partnership’s trade or business primarily to manage the risk of interest rate, price changes, or currency fluctuations with respect to borrowings made or to be made, or ordinary obligations incurred or to be incurred, to acquire or carry real estate assets, and (2) any transaction entered into primarily to manage the risk of currency fluctuations with respect to any item of income or gain that would be qualifying income under the 75% or 95% gross income test (or any property which generates such income or gain) and (3) any transaction entered into to “offset” transactions described in clause (1) or (2) if a portion of the hedged indebtedness is extinguished or the related property disposed of. We are required to clearly identify any such hedging transaction before the close of the day on which it was acquired, originated, or entered into and to satisfy other identification requirements. We intend to structure any hedging transactions in a manner that does not jeopardize our qualification as a REIT.
COD Income
From time to time, we and our subsidiaries may recognize COD income in connection with repurchasing debt at a discount. COD income is excluded from gross income for purposes of both the 95% gross income test and the 75% gross income test.
Foreign Currency Gain
Certain foreign currency gains will be excluded from gross income for purposes of one or both of the gross income tests. “Real estate foreign exchange gain” will be excluded from gross income for purposes of the 75% and 95% gross income tests. Real estate foreign exchange gain generally includes foreign currency gain attributable to any item of income or gain that is qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test, foreign currency gain attributable to the acquisition or ownership of (or becoming or being the obligor under) obligations secured by mortgages on real property or an interest in real property and certain foreign currency gain attributable to certain “qualified business units” of a REIT. “Passive foreign exchange gain” will be excluded from gross income for purposes of the 95% gross income test. Passive foreign exchange gain generally includes real estate foreign exchange gain as described above, and also includes foreign currency gain attributable to any item of income or gain that is qualifying income for purposes of the 95% gross income test and foreign currency gain attributable to the acquisition or ownership of (or becoming or being the obligor under) obligations. These exclusions for real estate foreign exchange gain and passive foreign exchange gain do not apply to any certain foreign currency gain derived from dealing, or engaging in substantial and regular trading, in securities. Such gain is treated as nonqualifying income for purposes of both the 75% and 95% gross income tests.
Failure to Satisfy Gross Income Tests
If we fail to satisfy one or both of the gross income tests for any taxable year, we nevertheless may qualify as a REIT for that year if we qualify for relief under certain provisions of the U.S. federal income tax laws. Those relief provisions are available if:
| · | our failure to meet those tests is due to reasonable cause and not to willful neglect; and |
| · | following such failure for any taxable year, we file a schedule of the sources of our income in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the U.S. Treasury. |
We cannot predict, however, whether in all circumstances we would qualify for the relief provisions. In addition, as discussed above in “—Taxation of Bluerock Homes,” even if the relief provisions apply, we would incur a 100% tax on the gross income attributable to the greater of the amount by which we fail the 75% gross income test or the 95% gross income test multiplied, in either case, by a fraction intended to reflect our profitability.
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Asset Tests
To qualify as a REIT, we also must satisfy the following asset tests at the end of each quarter of each taxable year. First, at least 75% of the value of our total assets must consist of:
| · | cash or cash items, including certain receivables and money market funds and, in certain circumstances, foreign currencies; |
| · | government securities; |
| · | interests in real property, including leaseholds and options to acquire real property and leaseholds and personal property, to the extent that such personal property is leased in connection with real property and rents attributable to such personal property are treated as “rents from real property”; |
| · | interests in mortgage loans secured by real property; |
| · | stock in other REITs; and |
| · | investments in stock or debt instruments during the one-year period following our receipt of new capital that we raise through equity offerings or public offerings of debt with at least a five-year term. |
Second, of our investments not included in the 75% asset class, the value of our interest in any one issuer’s securities may not exceed 5% of the value of our total assets (the “5% asset test”).
Third, of our investments not included in the 75% asset class, we may not own more than 10% of the voting power of any one issuer’s outstanding securities or 10% of the value of any one issuer’s outstanding securities (respectively, the “10% vote test” and the “10% value test”).
Fourth, no more than 20% of the value of our total assets may consist of the securities of one or more TRSs.
Fifth, no more than 25% of the value of our total assets may consist of the securities of TRSs and other non-TRS taxable subsidiaries and other assets that are not qualifying assets for purposes of the 75% asset test (the “25% securities test”).
Sixth, not more than 25% of the value of our total assets may be represented by debt instruments issued by “publicly offered REITs” to the extent not secured by real property or interests in real property.
For purposes of the 5% asset test, the 10% vote test, the 10% value test and the 25% securities test, the term “securities” does not include shares in another REIT, debt of “publicly offered REITs,” equity or debt securities of a qualified REIT subsidiary or TRS, mortgage loans that constitute real estate assets, or equity interests in a partnership. The term “securities,” however, generally includes debt securities issued by a partnership or another REIT (other than a “publicly offered REIT”), except that for purposes of the 10% value test, the term “securities” does not include:
| · | “Straight debt” securities, which is defined as a written unconditional promise to pay on demand or on a specified date a sum certain in money if (1) the debt is not convertible, directly or indirectly, into equity, and (2) the interest rate and interest payment dates are not contingent on profits, the borrower’s discretion, or similar factors. “Straight debt” securities do not include any securities issued by a partnership or a corporation in which we or any controlled TRS (i.e., a TRS in which we own directly or indirectly more than 50% of the voting power or value of the stock) hold non-“straight debt” securities that have an aggregate value of more than 1% of the issuer’s outstanding securities. However, “straight debt” securities include debt subject to the following contingencies: |
| · | a contingency relating to the time of payment of interest or principal, as long as either (1) there is no change to the effective yield of the debt obligation, other than a change to the annual yield that does not exceed the greater of 0.25% or 5% of the annual yield, or (2) neither the aggregate issue price nor the aggregate face amount of the issuer’s debt obligations held by us exceeds $1 million and no more than 12 months of unaccrued interest on the debt obligations can be required to be prepaid; and |
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| · | a contingency relating to the time or amount of payment upon a default or prepayment of a debt obligation, as long as the contingency is consistent with customary commercial practice. |
| · | Any loan to an individual or an estate; |
| · | Any “Section 467 rental agreement,” other than an agreement with a related party tenant; |
| · | Any obligation to pay “rents from real property”; |
| · | Certain securities issued by governmental entities; |
| · | Any security issued by a REIT; |
| · | Any debt instrument issued by an entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes in which we are a partner to the extent of our proportionate interest in the equity and debt securities of the partnership; and |
| · | Any debt instrument issued by an entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes not described in the preceding bullet points if at least 75% of the partnership’s gross income, excluding income from prohibited transactions, is qualifying income for purposes of the 75% gross income test described above in “—Gross Income Tests.” |
For purposes of the 10% value test, our proportionate share of the assets of a partnership is our proportionate interest in any securities issued by the partnership, without regard to the securities described in the last two bullet points above.
We believe that our holdings of assets will comply with the foregoing asset tests, and we intend to monitor compliance on an ongoing basis. However, independent appraisals will not be obtained to support our conclusions as to the value of our assets or the value of any particular security or securities. Moreover, values of some assets may not be susceptible to a precise determination, and values are subject to change in the future.
As described above, Revenue Procedure 2003-65 provides a safe harbor pursuant to which certain mezzanine loans secured by a first priority security interest in ownership interests in a partnership or limited liability company will be treated as qualifying assets for purposes of the 75% asset test (and therefore, are not subject to the 5% asset test, the 10% vote test and the 10% value test). See “—Gross Income Tests.” Although we anticipate that our mezzanine loans typically will not qualify for that safe harbor, we believe our mezzanine loans should be treated as qualifying assets for the 75% asset test or should be excluded from the definition of securities for purposes of the 10% vote test and the 10% value test. We intend to make mezzanine loans only to the extent that such loans will not cause us to fail the asset tests described above.
We will monitor the status of our assets for purposes of the various asset tests and will manage our portfolio in order to comply at all times with such tests. However, there is no assurance that we will not inadvertently fail to comply with such tests. If we fail to satisfy the asset tests at the end of a calendar quarter, we will not lose our REIT qualification if:
| · | we satisfied the asset tests at the end of the preceding calendar quarter; and |
| · | the discrepancy between the value of our assets and the asset test requirements arose from changes in the market values of our assets and was not wholly or partly caused by the acquisition of one or more non-qualifying assets. |
If we did not satisfy the condition described in the second item, above, we still could avoid disqualification by eliminating any discrepancy within 30 days after the close of the calendar quarter in which it arose.
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If we violate the 5% asset test, the 10% vote test or the 10% value test described above at the end of any quarter of each taxable year, we will not lose our REIT qualification if (A) the failure is de minimis (up to the lesser of 1% of our assets or $10 million) and (B) we dispose of assets causing the failure or otherwise comply with the asset tests within six months after the last day of the quarter in which we identify such failure. In the event of a failure of any of the asset tests (other than de minimis failures described in the preceding sentence), as long as the failure was due to reasonable cause and not to willful neglect, we will not lose our REIT qualification if we (1) dispose of assets causing the failure or otherwise comply with the asset tests within six months after the last day of the quarter in which we identify such failure, (2) file a description of each asset causing the failure with the IRS and (3) pay a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or 21% of the net income from the assets causing the failure during the period in which we failed to satisfy the asset tests.
Distribution Requirements
Each taxable year, we must distribute dividends, other than capital gain dividends and deemed distributions of retained capital gain, to our stockholders in an aggregate amount at least equal to the sum of:
| · | 90% of our “REIT taxable income,” computed without regard to the dividends paid deduction and our net capital gain or loss; and |
| · | 90% of our after-tax net income, if any, from foreclosure property; minus |
| · | the excess of the sum of certain items of non-cash income over 5% of our REIT taxable income computed without regard to the dividends paid deduction and our net capital gain. |
We must pay such distributions in the taxable year to which they relate, or in the following taxable year if either we (1) declare the distribution before we timely file our U.S. federal income tax return for the year, pay the distribution on or before the first regular dividend payment date after such declaration and elect in our tax return to have a specified dollar amount of such distribution treated as if paid during the prior year, or (2) declare the distribution in October, November or December of the taxable year, payable to stockholders of record on a specified day in any such month, and we actually pay the dividend before the end of January of the following year. The distributions under clause (1) are taxable to the stockholders in the year in which paid, and the distributions in clause (2) are treated as paid on December 31st of the prior taxable year to the extent of our earnings and profits. In both instances, these distributions relate to our prior taxable year for purposes of the 90% distribution requirement.
We will pay U.S. federal income tax on taxable income, including net capital gain, that we do not distribute to stockholders. Furthermore, if we fail to distribute during a calendar year, or by the end of January following the calendar year in the case of distributions with declaration and record dates falling in the last three months of the calendar year, at least the sum of:
| · | 85% of our REIT ordinary income for such year; |
| · | 95% of our REIT capital gain net income for such year; and |
| · | any undistributed taxable income (ordinary and capital gain) from all prior periods; |
then, we will incur a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the excess of such required distribution over the amounts we actually distribute. In making this calculation, the amount that a REIT is treated as having “actually distributed” during the current taxable year is both the amount distributed during the current year and the amount by which the distributions during the prior year exceeded its taxable income and capital gain for that prior year (the prior year calculation uses the same methodology so, in determining the amount of the distribution in the prior year, one looks back to the year before and so forth).
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If we are not treated as a “publicly offered REIT,” in order for distributions to be counted as satisfying the annual distribution requirements for REITs, and to provide us with a REIT-level tax deduction, the distributions must not be “preferential dividends.” A dividend is not a preferential dividend if the distribution is (1) pro rata among all outstanding shares of stock within a particular class, and (2) in accordance with the preferences among different classes of stock as set forth in our organizational documents. The preferential dividend rule does not apply to “publicly offered REITs.” We expect to be a “publicly offered REIT” following the Separation and Distribution. We may elect to retain and pay income tax on the net long-term capital gain we receive in a taxable year. If we so elect, we will be treated as having distributed any such retained amount for purposes of the 4% nondeductible excise tax described above. We intend to make timely distributions sufficient to satisfy the annual distribution requirements and to avoid U.S. federal corporate income tax and the 4% nondeductible excise tax.
It is possible that, from time to time, we may experience timing differences between the actual receipt of income and actual payment of deductible expenses and the inclusion of that income and deduction of such expenses in arriving at our REIT taxable income. Additionally, we may not deduct recognized capital losses from our “REIT taxable income.” Further, from time to time, we may be allocated a share of net capital gain attributable to the sale of depreciated property that exceeds our allocable share of cash attributable to that sale. We generally will be required to recognize certain amounts as income no later than the time such amounts are reflected on certain financial statements.
Additionally, a taxpayer’s net interest expense deduction is generally limited to 30% of the sum of adjusted taxable income, business interest, and certain other amounts. Adjusted taxable income does not include items of income or expense not allocable to a trade or business, business interest or expense, the deduction for qualified business income, NOLs, and for years prior to 2022, deductions for depreciation, amortization, or depletion. For partnerships, the interest deduction limit is applied at the partnership level, subject to certain adjustments to the partners for unused deduction limitation at the partnership level. Disallowed interest expense is carried forward indefinitely.
A real property trade or business may elect out of this interest limit so long as it uses a 40-year recovery period for nonresidential real property, a 30-year recovery period for residential real property, and a 20-year recovery period for related improvements described below. For this purpose, a real property trade or business is any real property development, redevelopment, construction, reconstruction, acquisition, conversion, rental, operating, management, leasing, or brokerage trade or business. We believe this definition encompasses our business and thus will allow us the option of electing out of the limits on interest deductibility should we determine it is prudent to do so.
Taxpayers that do not use the real property trade or business exception to the business interest deduction limits, may use 39-year and 27.5-year straight line recovery periods for nonresidential real property and residential rental property, respectively, and a general 15-year recovery period for tenant improvements. Also, taxpayers may expense 100% of certain new or used tangible property through 2022, phasing out at 20% for each following year.
The NOL deduction is limited to 80% of taxable income (before the deduction). NOLs may not be carried back, but may be carried forward indefinitely.
As a result of the foregoing, we may have less cash than is necessary to distribute all of our taxable income and thereby avoid corporate income tax and the excise tax imposed on certain undistributed income, or even to meet the 90% distribution requirement. In such a situation, we may need to borrow funds or, if possible, pay taxable dividends of our capital stock or debt securities.
We may satisfy the 90% distribution test with taxable distributions of our stock or debt securities. The IRS has issued Revenue Procedure 2017-45, authorizing elective cash/stock dividends to be made by publicly offered REITs. Pursuant to Revenue Procedure 2017-45, the IRS will treat the distribution of stock pursuant to an elective cash/stock dividend as a distribution of property under Section 301 of the Code (i.e., a dividend), as long as at least 20% of the total dividend is available in cash and certain other parameters detailed in the Revenue Procedure are satisfied. On November 30, 2021, the IRS issued Revenue Procedure 2021-53, which temporarily reduces (through June 30, 2022) the minimum amount of the distribution that must be available in cash to 10%. Although we have no current intention of paying dividends in our own stock, if in the future we choose to pay dividends in our own stock, our stockholders may be required to pay tax in excess of the cash that they receive.
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Under certain circumstances, we may be able to correct a failure to meet the distribution requirement for a year by paying “deficiency dividends” to our stockholders in a later year. We may include such deficiency dividends in our deduction for dividends paid for the earlier year. Although we may be able to avoid income tax on amounts distributed as deficiency dividends, we will be required to pay interest to the IRS based upon the amount of any deduction we take for deficiency dividends.
Recordkeeping Requirements
We must maintain certain records in order to qualify as a REIT. In addition, to avoid a monetary penalty, we must request on an annual basis information from our stockholders designed to disclose the actual ownership of our outstanding stock. We intend to comply with these requirements.
Failure to Qualify
If we fail to satisfy one or more requirements for REIT qualification, other than the gross income tests and the asset tests, we could avoid disqualification if our failure is due to reasonable cause and not to willful neglect and we pay a penalty of $50,000 for each such failure. In addition, there are relief provisions for a failure of the gross income tests and asset tests, as described in “—Gross Income Tests” and “—Asset Tests.”
If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, and no relief provision applies, we would be subject to U.S. federal income tax on our taxable income at regular U.S. federal corporate income tax rates, plus potential penalties and/or interest. In calculating our taxable income in a year in which we fail to qualify as a REIT, we would not be able to deduct amounts paid out to stockholders. In fact, we would not be required to distribute any amounts to stockholders in that year. In such event, to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, distributions to stockholders generally would be taxable as ordinary dividend income. Subject to certain limitations of the U.S. federal income tax laws, corporate stockholders might be eligible for the dividends received deduction and domestic non-corporate stockholders might be eligible for the reduced U.S. federal income tax rate of up to 20% on such dividends. Unless we qualified for relief under specific statutory provisions, we also would be disqualified from taxation as a REIT for the four taxable years following the year during which we ceased to qualify as a REIT. We cannot predict whether in all circumstances we would qualify for such statutory relief.
Taxation of Taxable U.S. Holders
As long as we qualify as a REIT, a taxable U.S. holder must generally take into account as ordinary income distributions made out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits that we do not designate as capital gain dividends or retained long-term capital gain. For purposes of determining whether a distribution is made out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, our earnings and profits will be allocated first to our preferred stock dividends, if any, and then to our common stock dividends. Individuals, trusts, and estates generally may deduct 20% of the “qualified REIT dividends” (i.e., REIT dividends other than capital gain dividends and portions of REIT dividends designated as qualified dividend income, which in each case are already eligible for capital gain tax rates) they receive. The deduction for qualified REIT dividends is not subject to the wage and property basis limits that apply to other types of “qualified business income.” However, to qualify for this deduction, the U.S. holder receiving such dividends must hold the dividend-paying REIT stock for at least 46 days (taking into account certain special holding period rules) of the 91-day period beginning 45 days before the stock becomes ex-dividend and cannot be under an obligation to make related payments with respect to a position in substantially similar or related property. The 20% deduction for qualified REIT dividends results in a maximum 29.6% U.S. federal income tax rate on ordinary REIT dividends, not including the 3.8% Medicare tax, discussed below. Without further legislation, the deduction would sunset after 2025.
A U.S. holder will not qualify for the dividends received deduction generally available to corporations. In addition, dividends paid to a U.S. holder generally will not qualify for the 20% tax rate for “qualified dividend income.” The maximum tax rate for qualified dividend income received by U.S. holders taxed at individual rates is currently 20%, plus the 3.8% Medicare tax on net investment income, if applicable. The maximum tax rate on qualified dividend income is lower than the maximum tax rates on ordinary income and REIT dividend income, which are currently 37% and 29.6%, respectively. Qualified dividend income generally includes dividends paid by domestic C corporations and certain qualified foreign corporations to U.S. holders that are taxed at individual rates. Because we are not generally subject to U.S. federal income tax on the portion of our REIT taxable income distributed to our stockholders (see “—Taxation of Bluerock Homes” above), our dividends generally will not be eligible for the 20% rate on qualified dividend income. However, as discussed above, REIT dividends constitute “qualified business income,” and thus a 20% deduction is available to individual taxpayers with respect to such dividends, resulting in a maximum U.S. federal tax rate of 29.6%, not including the 3.8% Medicare tax.
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A U.S. holder generally will recognize distributions that we designate as capital gain dividends as long-term capital gain without regard to how long the U.S. holder has held our common stock. We generally will designate our capital gain dividends as either 20% or 25% U.S. federal income tax rate distributions. See “—Capital Gains and Losses.” A corporate U.S. holder, however, may be required to treat up to 20% of certain capital gain dividends as ordinary income.
We may elect to retain and pay income tax on the net long-term capital gain that we recognize in a taxable year. In that case, to the extent that we designate such amount in a timely notice to such holder, a U.S. holder would be taxed on its proportionate share of our undistributed long-term capital gain. The U.S. holder would receive a credit for its proportionate share of the tax we paid. The U.S. holder would increase the basis in its stock by the amount of its proportionate share of our undistributed long-term capital gain, minus its share of the tax we paid.
A U.S. holder will not incur tax on a distribution in excess of our current and accumulated earnings and profits if the distribution does not exceed the adjusted basis of the U.S. holder’s common stock. Instead, the distribution will reduce the adjusted basis of such stock. A U.S. holder will recognize a distribution in excess of both our current and accumulated earnings and profits and the U.S. holder’s adjusted basis in his or her common stock as long-term capital gain, or short-term capital gain if the shares of the stock have been held for one year or less, assuming the shares of stock are a capital asset in the hands of the U.S. holder. In addition, if we declare a distribution in October, November, or December of any year that is payable to a U.S. holder of record on a specified date in any such month, such distribution shall be treated as both paid by us and received by the U.S. holder on December 31 of such year, to the extent of our earnings and profits, provided that we actually pay the distribution during January of the following calendar year.
U.S. holders may not include in their individual income tax returns any of our net operating losses or capital losses. Instead, these losses are generally carried over by us for potential offset against our future income. Taxable distributions from us and gain from the disposition of our common stock will not be treated as passive activity income and, therefore, holders generally will not be able to apply any “passive activity losses,” such as losses from certain types of limited partnerships in which the U.S. holder is a limited partner, against such income. In addition, taxable distributions from us and gain from the disposition of our common stock generally will be treated as investment income for purposes of the investment interest limitations. We will notify U.S. stockholders after the close of our taxable year as to the portions of the distributions attributable to that year that constitute ordinary income, return of capital and capital gain and “qualified REIT dividends.”
Certain U.S. stockholders who are individuals, estates or trusts and whose income exceeds certain thresholds are required to pay a 3.8% Medicare tax. The Medicare tax applies to, among other things, dividends and other income derived from certain trades or business and net gains from the sale or other disposition of property, such as our capital stock, subject to certain exceptions. Our dividends and any gain from the disposition of our stock generally are the type of gain that is subject to the Medicare tax.
Taxation of U.S. Stockholders on the Disposition of Our Common Stock
A U.S. holder who is not a dealer in securities must generally treat any gain or loss realized upon a taxable disposition of our common stock as long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. holder has held our common stock for more than one year and otherwise as short-term capital gain or loss. In general, a U.S. holder will realize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the sum of the fair market value of any property and the amount of cash received in such disposition and the U.S. holder’s adjusted tax basis. A U.S. holder’s adjusted tax basis generally will equal the U.S. holder’s acquisition cost, increased by the excess of net capital gains deemed distributed to the U.S. holder (discussed above) less tax deemed paid on such gains and reduced by any returns of capital. However, a U.S. holder must treat any loss upon a sale or exchange of common stock held by such holder for six months or less as a long-term capital loss to the extent of capital gain dividends and any other actual or deemed distributions from us that such U.S. holder treats as long-term capital gain. All or a portion of any loss that a U.S. holder realizes upon a taxable disposition of our common stock may be disallowed if the U.S. holder purchases other shares of our stock within 30 days before or after the disposition.
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Capital Gains and Losses
A taxpayer generally must hold a capital asset for more than one year for gain or loss derived from its sale or exchange to be treated as long-term capital gain or loss. The highest marginal U.S. federal individual income tax rate currently is 37%. The maximum U.S. federal income tax rate on long-term capital gain applicable to non-corporate taxpayers is 20%. The maximum tax rate on long-term capital gain from the sale or exchange of “Section 1250 property,” or depreciable real property, is 25%, to the extent that such gain would have been treated as ordinary income if the property were “Section 1245 property.” Individuals, trusts, and estates whose income exceeds certain thresholds are also subject to a 3.8% Medicare tax on gain from the sale of our common stock.
With respect to distributions that we designate as capital gain dividends and any retained capital gain that we are deemed to distribute, we generally may designate whether such a distribution is taxable to our non-corporate stockholders at a 20% or 25% rate. Thus, the tax rate differential between capital gain and ordinary income for those taxpayers may be significant. In addition, the characterization of income as capital gain or ordinary income may affect the deductibility of capital losses. A non-corporate taxpayer may deduct capital losses not offset by capital gains against its ordinary income only up to a maximum annual amount of $3,000 ($1,500 for married individuals filing separate returns). A non-corporate taxpayer may carry forward unused capital losses indefinitely. A corporate taxpayer must pay tax on its net capital gain at ordinary U.S. federal corporate income tax rates. A corporate taxpayer may deduct capital losses only to the extent of capital gains, with unused losses being carried back three years and forward five years.
Taxation of Tax-Exempt Stockholders
Tax-exempt entities, including qualified employee pension and profit sharing trusts and individual retirement accounts, generally are exempt from U.S. federal income taxation. However, they are subject to taxation on their UBTI. Although many investments in real estate generate UBTI, the IRS has issued a ruling that dividend distributions from a REIT to an exempt employee pension trust do not constitute UBTI so long as the exempt employee pension trust does not otherwise use the shares of the REIT in an unrelated trade or business of the pension trust. Based on that ruling, amounts that we distribute to tax-exempt stockholders generally should not constitute UBTI. However, if a tax-exempt stockholder were to finance (or be deemed to finance) its acquisition of our stock with debt, a portion of the income that it receives from us would constitute UBTI pursuant to the “debt-financed property” rules. Moreover, social clubs, voluntary employee benefit associations, supplemental unemployment benefit trusts and qualified group legal services plans that are exempt from taxation under special provisions of the U.S. federal income tax laws are subject to different UBTI rules, which generally will require them to characterize distributions that they receive from us as UBTI. Finally, in certain circumstances, a qualified employee pension or profit sharing trust that owns more than 10% of our capital stock must treat a percentage of the dividends that it receives from us as UBTI. Such percentage is equal to the gross income we derive from an unrelated trade or business, determined as if we were a pension trust, divided by our total gross income for the year in which we pay the dividends. That rule applies to a pension trust holding more than 10% of our capital stock only if:
| · | the percentage of our dividends that the tax-exempt trust must treat as UBTI is at least 5%; |
| · | we qualify as a REIT by reason of the modification of the rule requiring that no more than 50% of our capital stock be owned by five or fewer individuals that allows the beneficiaries of the pension trust to be treated as holding our capital stock in proportion to their actuarial interests in the pension trust; and either: |
| · | one pension trust owns more than 25% of the value of our capital stock; or |
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| · | a group of pension trusts individually holding more than 10% of the value of our capital stock collectively owns more than 50% of the value of our capital stock. |
Tax-exempt U.S. stockholders are urged to consult with their tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal, state and local tax consequences of owning our common stock.
Taxation of Non-U.S. Holders
The rules governing U.S. federal income taxation of non-U.S. holders are complex. This section is only a summary of such rules. We urge non-U.S. holders to consult their tax advisors to determine the impact of federal, state, and local income tax laws on the ownership and disposition of our common stock, including any reporting requirements.
Distributions
A non-U.S. holder that receives a distribution that is not attributable to gain from our sale or exchange of a USRPI and that we do not designate as a capital gain dividend or retained capital gain will recognize ordinary income to the extent that we pay such distribution out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits. A withholding tax equal to 30% of the gross amount of the distribution ordinarily will apply to such distribution unless an applicable tax treaty reduces or eliminates the tax. However, if a distribution is treated as effectively connected with the non-U.S. holder’s conduct of a U.S. trade or business, the non-U.S. holder generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the distribution at graduated rates, in the same manner as U.S. holders are taxed on distributions, and a non-U.S. holder that is a corporation also may be subject to the 30% branch profits tax with respect to that distribution. We plan to withhold U.S. income tax at the rate of 30% on the gross amount of any such distribution paid to a non-U.S. holder unless:
| · | a lower treaty rate applies and the non-U.S. holder files an W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8BEN-E, as applicable, evidencing eligibility for that reduced rate with us; |
| · | the non-U.S. holder files an IRS Form W-8ECI with us claiming that the distribution is effectively connected income; or |
| · | the distribution is treated as attributable to a sale of a USRPI under FIRPTA (discussed below). |
A non-U.S. holder will not incur tax on a distribution in excess of our current and accumulated earnings and profits if the excess portion of such distribution does not exceed the adjusted basis of its common stock. Instead, the excess portion of such distribution will reduce the adjusted basis of such stock. A non-U.S. holder will be subject to tax on a distribution that exceeds both our current and accumulated earnings and profits and the adjusted basis of its common stock, if the non-U.S. holder otherwise would be subject to tax on gain from the sale or disposition of its common stock, as described below. We must withhold 15% of any distribution that exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits. Consequently, although we intend to withhold at a rate of 30% on the entire amount of any distribution, to the extent that we do not do so, we will withhold at a rate of 15% on any portion of a distribution not subject to withholding at a rate of 30%. Because we generally cannot determine at the time we make a distribution whether the distribution will exceed our current and accumulated earnings and profits, we normally will withhold tax on the entire amount of any distribution at the same rate as we would withhold on a dividend. However, by filing a U.S. tax return, a non-U.S. holder may claim a refund of amounts that we withhold if we later determine that a distribution in fact exceeded our current and accumulated earnings and profits.
For any year in which we qualify as a REIT, a non-U.S. holder may incur tax on distributions that are attributable to gain from our sale or exchange of a USRPI under FIRPTA. A USRPI includes certain interests in real property and stock in corporations at least 50% of whose assets consist of interests in real property. Under FIRPTA, a non-U.S. holder is taxed on distributions attributable to gain from sales of USRPIs as if such gain were effectively connected with a U.S. business of the non-U.S. holder. A non-U.S. holder thus would be taxed on such a distribution at the normal capital gains rates applicable to U.S. holders, subject to applicable alternative minimum tax and a special alternative minimum tax in the case of a nonresident alien individual. A corporate non-U.S. holder not entitled to treaty relief or exemption also may be subject to the 30% branch profits tax on such a distribution.
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However, subject to the discussion below regarding distributions to “qualified shareholders” and “qualified foreign pension funds,” under FIRPTA, if our common stock is regularly traded on an established securities market in the United States, capital gain distributions on our common stock that are attributable to our sale of a USRPI will be treated as ordinary dividends rather than as gain from the sale of a USRPI, as long as the non-U.S. holder did not own more than 10% of our common stock at any time during the one-year period preceding the distribution. In such a case, non-U.S. holders generally will be subject to withholding tax on such capital gain distributions in the same manner as they are subject to withholding tax on ordinary dividends.
We believe that our common stock will be regularly traded on an established securities market in the United States following the Separation and Distribution. Our Class C common stock will not be traded on an established securities market in the United States. With respect to our Class C common stock (and our common stock to the extent that it was not regularly traded on an established securities market in the United States), subject to the discussion below regarding distributions to “qualified shareholders” and “qualified foreign pension funds,” capital gain distributions that are attributable to our sale of USRPIs would be subject to tax under FIRPTA, as described above. In such case, we must withhold 21% of any distribution that we could designate as a capital gain dividend. A non-U.S. holder may receive a credit against its tax liability for the amount we withhold. Moreover, if a non-U.S. holder disposes of our common stock during the 30-day period preceding a dividend payment, and such non-U.S. holder (or a person related to such non-U.S. holder) acquires or enters into a contract or option to acquire our common stock within 61 days of the first day of the 30-day period described above, and any portion of such dividend payment would, but for the disposition, be treated as a USRPI capital gain to such non-U.S. holder, then such non-U.S. holder shall be treated as having USRPI capital gain in an amount that, but for the disposition, would have been treated as USRPI capital gain.
Qualified Shareholders
Subject to the exception discussed below, any distribution to a “qualified shareholder” who holds REIT stock directly or indirectly (through one or more partnerships) will not be subject to U.S. tax as income effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business and thus will not be subject to special withholding rules under the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (“FIRPTA”). While a “qualified shareholder” will not be subject to FIRPTA withholding on REIT distributions, certain investors of a “qualified shareholder” (i.e., non-U.S. persons who hold interests in the “qualified shareholder” (other than interests solely as a creditor), and hold more than 10% of REIT stock (whether or not by reason of the investor’s ownership in the “qualified shareholder”)) may be subject to FIRPTA withholding tax.
A “qualified shareholder” is a foreign person that (i) either is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty which includes an exchange of information program and whose principal class of interests is listed and regularly traded on one or more recognized stock exchanges (as defined in such comprehensive income tax treaty), or is a foreign partnership that is created or organized under foreign law as a limited partnership in a jurisdiction that has an agreement for the exchange of information with respect to taxes with the United States and has a class of limited partnership units representing greater than 50% of the value of all the partnership units that is regularly traded on the NYSE or NASDAQ markets, (ii) is a qualified collective investment vehicle (defined below), and (iii) maintains records on the identity of each person who, at any time during the foreign person’s taxable year, is the direct owner of 5% or more of the class of interests or units (as applicable) described in clause (i), above.
A “qualified collective investment vehicle” is a foreign person that (i) would be eligible for a reduced rate of withholding under the comprehensive income tax treaty described above, even if such entity holds more than 10% of the stock of such REIT, (ii) is publicly traded, is treated as a partnership under the Code, is a withholding foreign partnership, and would be treated as a U.S. real property holding corporation (“USRPHC”) if it were a domestic corporation, or (iii) is designated as such by the Secretary of the Treasury and is either (a) fiscally transparent within the meaning of section 894 of the Code, or (b) required to include dividends in its gross income, but is entitled to a deduction for distributions to its investors.
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Qualified Foreign Pension Funds
Any distribution to a “qualified foreign pension fund” or an entity all of the interests of which are held by a “qualified foreign pension fund” who holds REIT stock directly or indirectly (through one or more partnerships) will not be subject to U.S. tax as income effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business and thus will not be subject to the withholding rules under FIRPTA.
A qualified foreign pension fund is any trust, corporation, or other organization or arrangement (A) which is created or organized under the law of a country other than the United States, (B) which is established to provide retirement or pension benefits to participants or beneficiaries that are current or former employees (or persons designated by such employees) of one or more employers in consideration for services rendered, (C) which does not have a single participant or beneficiary with a right to more than 5% of its assets or income, (D) which is subject to government regulation and provides annual information reporting about its beneficiaries to the relevant tax authorities in the country in which it is established or operates, and (E) with respect to which, under the laws of the country in which it is established or operates, (i) contributions to such organization or arrangement that would otherwise be subject to tax under such laws are deductible or excluded from the gross income of such entity or taxed at a reduced rate, or (ii) taxation of any investment income of such organization or arrangement is deferred or such income is taxed at a reduced rate.
Dispositions
Subject to the discussion below regarding dispositions by “qualified shareholders” and “qualified foreign pension funds,” non-U.S. holders could incur tax under FIRPTA with respect to gain realized upon a disposition of our stock if we are a USRPHC during a specified testing period. If at least 50% of a REIT’s assets are USRPIs, then the REIT will be a USRPHC. We believe that we will be a USRPHC based on our initial portfolio and our investment strategy. However, even if we are a USRPHC, a non-U.S. holder generally would not incur tax under FIRPTA on gain from the sale of our common stock if we are a “domestically controlled qualified investment entity.”
A “domestically controlled qualified investment entity” includes a REIT in which, at all times during a specified testing period, less than 50% in value of its shares are held directly or indirectly by non-U.S. holders. We cannot assure you that this test will be met.
If our common stock is regularly traded on an established securities market, an additional exception to the tax under FIRPTA will be available with respect to a non-U.S. holder’s disposition of such stock, even if we do not qualify as a domestically controlled qualified investment entity at the time the non-U.S. holder sells such stock. Under this additional exception, the gain from such a sale by such a non-U.S. holder will not be subject to tax under FIRPTA if (1) our common stock is treated as being regularly traded under applicable Treasury Regulations on an established securities market and (2) the non-U.S. holder owned, actually or constructively, 10% or less of our common stock at all times during a specified testing period. As noted above, we believe that our common stock will be regularly traded on an established securities market following the Separation and Distribution, but our Class C common stock will not be regularly traded on an established securities market.
In addition, a sale of our shares by a “qualified shareholder” or a “qualified foreign pension fund” who holds our common stock directly or indirectly (through one or more partnerships) will not be subject to U.S. federal income taxation under FIRPTA. While a “qualified shareholder” will not be subject to FIRPTA withholding upon sale of our common stock, certain investors of a “qualified shareholder” (i.e., non-U.S. persons who hold interests in the “qualified shareholder” (other than interests solely as a creditor) that hold more than 10% of REIT stock (whether or not by reason of the investor’s ownership in the “qualified shareholder”)) may be subject to FIRPTA withholding.
If the gain on the sale of shares of our common stock were taxed under FIRPTA, a non-U.S. holder would be taxed on that gain in the same manner as U.S. holders, subject to applicable alternative minimum tax and a special alternative minimum tax in the case of nonresident alien individuals. In addition, distributions that are subject to tax under FIRPTA also may be subject to a 30% branch profits tax when made to a non-U.S. holder treated as a corporation (under U.S. federal income tax principles) that is not otherwise entitled to treaty exemption. Finally, if we are not a domestically controlled qualified investment entity at the time our common stock is sold and the non-U.S. holder does not qualify for the exemptions described in the preceding paragraph, then under FIRPTA the purchaser of the shares of our common stock also may be required to withhold 15% of the purchase price and remit this amount to the IRS on behalf of the selling non-U.S. holder.
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With respect to individual non-U.S. holders, even if not subject to FIRPTA, capital gains recognized from the sale of shares of our common stock will be taxable to such non-U.S. holder if he or she is a non-resident alien individual who is present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year and some other conditions apply, in which case the non-resident alien individual may be subject to a U.S. federal income tax on his or her U.S. source capital gain.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
We will report to our stockholders and to the IRS the amount of distributions we pay during each calendar year, and the amount of tax we withhold, if any. Under the backup withholding rules, a stockholder may be subject to backup withholding at a rate of 24% with respect to distributions.
U.S. Holders. Certain U.S. holders are exempt from backup withholding, including corporations and certain tax-exempt organizations. A U.S. holder will be subject to backup withholding if such holder is not otherwise exempt and:
| · | the holder fails to furnish the holder’s taxpayer identification number, which for an individual is ordinarily his or her social security number; |
| · | the holder furnishes an incorrect taxpayer identification number; |
| · | the applicable withholding agent is notified by the IRS that the holder previously failed to properly report payments of interest or dividends; or |
| · | the holder fails to certify under penalties of perjury that the holder has furnished a correct taxpayer identification number and that the IRS has not notified the holder that the holder is subject to backup withholding. |
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be allowed as a refund or a credit against a U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is timely furnished to the IRS. U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding their qualification for an exemption from backup withholding and the procedures for obtaining such an exemption.
Non-U.S. Holders. Distributions to a non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to backup withholding, provided the applicable withholding agent does not have actual knowledge or reason to know the holder is a United States person and the holder either certifies its non-U.S. status, such as by furnishing a valid IRS Form W-8BEN, W-8BEN-E or W-8ECI, or otherwise establishes an exemption. In addition, proceeds of a sale of stock within the United States or conducted through certain U.S.-related brokers generally will not be subject to backup withholding or information reporting, if the applicable withholding agent receives the certification described above and does not have actual knowledge or reason to know that such holder is a United States person, or the holder otherwise establishes an exemption. Proceeds of a sale of such stock conducted through a non-U.S. office of a non-U.S. broker generally will not be subject to backup withholding or information reporting.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be allowed as a refund or a credit against a non-U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the required information is timely furnished to the IRS.
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Medicare Contribution Tax on Unearned Income
Certain U.S. holders that are individuals, estates or trusts are required to pay an additional 3.8% tax on, among other things, dividends on stock and capital gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, subject to certain limitations. U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the effect, if any, of these rules on the Distribution.
Additional Withholding on Payments Made to Foreign Accounts
Withholding taxes may be imposed under FATCA on certain types of payments made to non-U.S. financial institutions and certain other non-U.S. entities. Specifically, a 30% withholding tax may be imposed on dividends on Bluerock Homes’ common stock or (subject to the proposed Treasury Regulations discussed below) gross proceeds from the sale or other disposition of Bluerock Homes’ common stock, in each case paid to a “foreign financial institution” or a “non-financial foreign entity” (each as defined in the Code), unless (1) the foreign financial institution undertakes certain diligence and reporting obligations, (2) the non-financial foreign entity either certifies it does not have any “substantial United States owners” (as defined in the Code) or furnishes identifying information regarding each substantial United States owner, or (3) the foreign financial institution or non-financial foreign entity otherwise qualifies for an exemption from these rules. If the payee is a foreign financial institution and is subject to the diligence and reporting requirements in clause (1) above, it must enter into an agreement with the U.S. Department of the Treasury requiring, among other things, that it undertakes to identify accounts held by certain “specified United States persons” or “United States owned foreign entities” (each as defined in the Code), annually reports certain information about such accounts, and withhold 30% on certain payments to non-compliant foreign financial institutions and certain other account holders. Foreign financial institutions located in jurisdictions that have an intergovernmental agreement with the United States governing FATCA may be subject to different rules.
Under the applicable Treasury Regulations and administrative guidance, withholding under FATCA generally applies to payments of dividends on Bluerock Homes’ common stock. While withholding under FATCA would have applied also to payments of gross proceeds from the sale or other disposition of stock on or after January 1, 2019, proposed Treasury Regulations eliminate FATCA withholding on payments of gross proceeds entirely. Taxpayers generally may rely on these proposed Treasury Regulations until final Treasury Regulations are issued. Because we may not know the extent to which a distribution is a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes at the time it is made, for purposes of these withholding rules we may treat the entire distribution as a dividend.
Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the potential application of withholding under FATCA to the Distribution.
Other Tax Consequences
Tax Aspects of Our Investments in Our Operating Partnership and Subsidiary Partnerships
The following discussion summarizes certain U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to our direct or indirect investments in our Operating Partnership and any subsidiary partnerships or limited liability companies that we form or acquire (each individually a “Partnership” and, collectively, the “Partnerships”). The discussion does not cover state or local tax laws or any U.S. federal tax laws other than income tax laws.
Classification as Partnerships
We are entitled to include in our income our distributive share of each Partnership’s income and to deduct our distributive share of each Partnership’s losses only if such Partnership is classified for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a partnership (or an entity that is disregarded for U.S. federal income tax purposes if the entity is treated as having only one owner or member for U.S. federal income tax purposes) rather than as a corporation or an association taxable as a corporation. An unincorporated entity with at least two owners or members will be classified as a partnership, rather than as a corporation, for U.S. federal income tax purposes if it:
| · | is treated as a partnership under the Treasury Regulations relating to entity classification (the “check-the-box regulations”); and |
| · | is not a “publicly-traded partnership.” |
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Under the check-the-box regulations, an unincorporated entity with at least two owners or members may elect to be classified either as an association taxable as a corporation or as a partnership. If such an entity fails to make an election, it generally will be treated as a partnership (or an entity that is disregarded for U.S. federal income tax purposes if the entity is treated as having only one owner or member for U.S. federal income tax purposes) for U.S. federal income tax purposes. We intend for our Operating Partnership to be classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes and will not cause our Operating Partnership to elect to be treated as an association taxable as a corporation under the check-the-box regulations.
A publicly-traded partnership is a partnership whose interests are traded on an established securities market or are readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof. A publicly-traded partnership will not, however, be treated as a corporation for any taxable year if, for each taxable year beginning after December 31, 1987 in which it was classified as a publicly-traded partnership, 90% or more of the partnership’s gross income for such year consists of certain passive-type income, including real property rents, gains from the sale or other disposition of real property, interest, and dividends (the “90% passive income exception”). Treasury Regulations provide limited safe harbors from the definition of a publicly-traded partnership. Pursuant to one of those safe harbors (the “private placement exclusion”), interests in a partnership will not be treated as readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof if (1) all interests in the partnership were issued in a transaction or transactions that were not required to be registered under the Securities Act, and (2) the partnership does not have more than 100 partners at any time during the partnership’s taxable year. In determining the number of partners in a partnership, a person owning an interest in a partnership, grantor trust, or S corporation that owns an interest in the partnership is treated as a partner in such partnership only if (x) substantially all of the value of the owner’s interest in the entity is attributable to the entity’s direct or indirect interest in the partnership and (y) a principal purpose of the use of the entity is to permit the partnership to satisfy the 100-partner limitation. We expect that our Operating Partnership and any other partnership in which we own an interest will qualify for the private placement exception.
We have not requested and do not intend to request
a ruling from the IRS that our Operating Partnership will be classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. If for
any reason our Operating Partnership were taxable as a corporation, rather than as a partnership, for U.S. federal income tax purposes,
we likely would not be able to qualify as a REIT unless we qualified for certain relief provisions. See “—Gross Income Tests”
and
“—Asset Tests.” In addition, any change in a Partnership’s status for tax purposes might be treated as a taxable
event, in which case we might incur tax liability without any related cash distribution. See “—Distribution Requirements.”
Further, items of income and deduction of such Partnership would not pass through to its partners, and its partners would be treated as
stockholders for tax purposes. Consequently, such Partnership would be required to pay tax at U.S. federal corporate income tax rates
on its net income, and distributions to its partners would constitute dividends that would not be deductible in computing such Partnership’s
taxable income.
Income Taxation of the Partnerships and their Partners
Partners, Not the Partnerships, Subject to Tax
A partnership is not a taxable entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Rather, we are required to take into account our allocable share of each Partnership’s income, gains, losses, deductions, and credits for any taxable year of such Partnership ending within or with our taxable year, without regard to whether we have received or will receive any distribution from such Partnership. Nonetheless, a partnership is liable for paying tax assessed pursuant to an audit adjustment unless the partnership elects to pass through such adjustments to its partners.
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Partnership Allocations
Although a partnership agreement generally will determine the allocation of income and losses among partners, such allocations will be disregarded for tax purposes if they do not comply with the provisions of the U.S. federal income tax laws governing partnership allocations. If an allocation is not recognized for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the item subject to the allocation will be reallocated in accordance with the partners’ interests in the partnership, which will be determined by taking into account all of the facts and circumstances relating to the economic arrangement of the partners with respect to such item. Each Partnership’s allocations of taxable income, gain, and loss are intended to comply with the requirements of the U.S. federal income tax laws governing partnership allocations.
Tax Allocations With Respect to Partnership Properties
Income, gain, loss, and deduction attributable to appreciate or depreciated property that is contributed to a partnership in exchange for an interest in the partnership must be allocated in a manner such that the contributing partner is charged with, or benefits from, respectively, the unrealized gain or unrealized loss associated with the property at the time of the contribution. The amount of the unrealized gain or unrealized loss (“built-in gain” or “built-in loss”) is generally equal to the difference between the fair market value of the contributed property at the time of contribution and the adjusted tax basis of such property at the time of contribution (a “book-tax difference”). Any property purchased for cash initially will have an adjusted tax basis equal to its fair market value, resulting in no book- tax difference.
Allocations with respect to book-tax differences are solely for U.S. federal income tax purposes and do not affect the book capital accounts or other economic or legal arrangements among the partners. The U.S. Treasury Department has issued regulations requiring partnerships to use a “reasonable method” for allocating items with respect to which there is a book-tax difference and outlining several reasonable allocation methods. Under certain available methods, the carryover basis of contributed properties in the hands of our Operating Partnership (1) could cause us to be allocated lower amounts of depreciation deductions for tax purposes than would be allocated to us if all contributed properties were to have a tax basis equal to their fair market value at the time of the contribution and (2) in the event of a sale of such properties, could cause us to be allocated taxable gain in excess of the economic or book gain allocated to us as a result of such sale, with a corresponding benefit to the contributing partners. An allocation described in clause (2) above might cause us to recognize taxable income in excess of cash proceeds in the event of a sale or other disposition of property, which might adversely affect our ability to comply with the REIT distribution requirements and may result in a greater portion of our distributions being taxed as dividends. We have not yet decided what method will be used to account for book-tax differences.
Sale of a Partnership’s Property
Generally, any gain realized by a Partnership on the sale of property held by the Partnership for more than one year will be long-term capital gain, except for any portion of such gain that is treated as depreciation or cost recovery recapture. Under Section 704(c) of the Code, any gain or loss recognized by a Partnership on the disposition of contributed properties will be allocated first to the partners of the Partnership who contributed such properties to the extent of their built-in gain or loss on those properties for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The partners’ built-in gain or loss on such contributed properties will equal the difference between the partners’ proportionate share of the book value of those properties and the partners’ tax basis allocable to those properties at the time of the contribution as reduced for any decrease in the “book-tax difference.” See “—Income Taxation of the Partnerships and their Partners—Tax Allocations With Respect to Partnership Properties.” Any remaining gain or loss recognized by the Partnership on the disposition of the contributed properties, and any gain or loss recognized by the Partnership on the disposition of the other properties, will be allocated among the partners in accordance with their respective percentage interests in the Partnership.
Our share of any gain realized by a Partnership on the sale of any property held by the Partnership as inventory or other property held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of the Partnership’s trade or business will be treated as income from a prohibited transaction that is subject to a 100% penalty tax. Such prohibited transaction income also may have an adverse effect upon our ability to satisfy the income tests for REIT qualification. See “—Gross Income Tests.” We do not presently intend to acquire or hold or allow any Partnership to acquire or hold any property that represents inventory or other property held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of our or such Partnership’s trade or business.
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Partnership Audit Rules
Under the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, any audit adjustment to items of income, gain, loss, deduction or credit of a partnership (and any partner’s distributive share thereof) is determined, and taxes, interest or penalties attributable thereto are assessed and collected, at the partnership level. It is possible that these rules could result in a Partnership being required to pay additional taxes, interest and penalties as a result of an audit adjustment, and we, as a direct or indirect partner of those Partnerships, could be required to bear the economic burden of those taxes, interest and penalties even though we, as a REIT, may not otherwise have been required to pay additional corporate-level taxes as a result of the related audit adjustment. The implementation of these rules is in many respects dependent on the promulgation of future regulations or other guidance by the U.S. Treasury Department. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors with respect to these changes and their potential impact on their ownership of our common stock.
Legislative or Other Actions Affecting REITs
The present U.S. federal income tax treatment of REITs may be modified, possibly with retroactive effect, by legislative, judicial or administrative action at any time, which could affect the U.S. federal income tax treatment of an investment in our common stock. The REIT rules are constantly under review by persons involved in the legislative process and by the IRS and the U.S. Treasury Department, which may result in statutory changes as well as revisions to regulations and interpretations. Additionally, several of the tax considerations described herein are currently under review and are subject to change. Holders are urged to consult with their tax advisors regarding the effect of potential changes to the U.S. federal tax laws on an investment in our common stock.
State and Local Taxes
We and/or you may be subject to taxation by various states and localities, including those in which we or a stockholder transacts business, owns property or resides. The state and local tax treatment may differ from the U.S. federal income tax treatment described above. Consequently, you should consult your tax advisor regarding the effect of state and local tax laws upon an investment in our common stock.
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SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
General
Prior to the Distribution, there will be no market for our common shares. Therefore, future sales of substantial amounts of our common shares in the public market could adversely affect prevailing market prices.
Upon completion of the Distribution, we will have common shares outstanding and common shares reserved for issuance upon redemption of OP units of Bluerock Residential Holdings. In addition, we will have shares of common stock reserved for issuance to directors, executive officers, employees and other individuals who provide services to us that, if and when such shares are issued, may be subject in whole or in part to vesting requirements or the lapsing of restrictions.
The common shares distributed to Bluerock Residential shareholders will be freely transferable, except for shares received by persons who may be deemed to be Bluerock Homes “affiliates” under the Securities Act. Persons who may be deemed to be affiliates of Bluerock Homes after the Separation generally include individuals or entities that control, are controlled by or are under common control with Bluerock Homes and may include directors and certain officers or principal shareholders of Bluerock Homes. Bluerock Homes affiliates will be permitted to sell their Bluerock Homes common shares only pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, such as the exemptions afforded by Rule 144.
Redemption Rights
Pursuant to the partnership agreement of our Operating Partnership, persons that own OP units, other than us or our subsidiaries, will have the right to redeem their units. When an OP unitholder exercises this right with respect to OP units, the Operating Partnership must redeem the OP units for cash or, at our option, shares of our common stock, on a one-for-one basis subject to certain adjustments and the terms and conditions of the partnership agreement. These redemption rights generally may be exercised by the limited partners one year following the issuance of the OP units. Please refer to “Partnership Agreement—Redemption Rights of Qualifying Parties.” Any amendment to the partnership agreement that would affect these redemption rights would require our consent as general partner and the consent of all limited partners adversely affected.
Rule 144
Any “restricted” securities under the meaning of Rule 144 of the Securities Act may not be sold in the absence of registration under the Securities Act unless an exemption from registration is available, including exemptions contained in Rule 144.
In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, if six months have elapsed since the date of acquisition of restricted shares from us or any of our affiliates, the holder of such restricted shares can sell such shares; provided that the number of shares sold by such person within any three-month period cannot exceed the greater of 1% of the total number of shares of our common equity then outstanding or the average weekly trading volume of our common equity on the NYSE American during the four calendar weeks preceding the date on which notice of the sale is filed with the SEC.
Sales under Rule 144 by our affiliates or persons selling shares on behalf of our affiliates also are subject to certain manner of sale provisions, notice requirements and the availability of current public information about us.
Grants Under Our Equity Compensation Plan
It is expected that, prior to the completion of the Separation, Bluerock Homes will adopt an equity compensation plan, which will be described in subsequent amendments to this information statement.
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PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
A summary of the material terms and provisions of the Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Operating Partnership, which we refer to as the “partnership agreement,” is set forth below. The following summary does not purport to be complete and is subject to and qualified in its entirety by reference to Maryland law and the partnership agreement, which will be in effect prior to the Distribution. For more detail, please refer to the partnership agreement itself, a copy of which will be filed with the SEC and will be incorporated by reference as an exhibit to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part. For purposes of this section, references to “we,” “our,” “us,” “our company” and the “general partner” refer to Bluerock Homes, in our capacity as the general partner of our Operating Partnership. See the section entitled “Where You Can Find More Information.”
General
Our Operating Partnership was formed as a Delaware limited partnership on August 8, 2008 and prior to the Separation was the Operating Partnership of Bluerock Residential. Substantially all of our assets will be held by, and substantially all of our operations will be conducted through, our Operating Partnership. Prior to or as of the Distribution, we, as general partner, and the limited partners will enter into that certain Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Operating Partnership (the “partnership agreement”). Pursuant to the partnership agreement, we will be the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership.
As the sole general partner of our Operating Partnership, we will have full, exclusive and complete responsibility and discretion in the management and control of our Operating Partnership, including the ability to cause our Operating Partnership to enter into certain major transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, and refinancings, select tenants for our properties, enter into leases for our properties, make distributions to partners, and cause changes in our Operating Partnership’s business activities.
Limited partners other than us will own approximately [ ]% of our Operating Partnership following the Separation and Distribution. The limited partners of our Operating Partnership will have no authority in their capacity as limited partners to transact business for, or participate in the management activities or decisions of, our Operating Partnership except as required by applicable law. Consequently, we, by virtue of our position as the sole general partner, will control the assets and business of our Operating Partnership.
In the partnership agreement, the limited partners of our Operating Partnership will expressly acknowledge that we, as general partner, are acting for the benefit of our Operating Partnership, the limited partners and our stockholders, collectively. Except as further described below, neither we nor our board of directors will be under any obligation to give priority to the separate interests of the limited partners in deciding whether to cause our Operating Partnership to take or decline to take any actions. In particular, we will be under no obligation to consider any tax consequences to limited partners when making decisions for the benefit of our Operating Partnership. If there is a conflict between the interests of our stockholders, on the one hand, and the interests of the limited partners, on the other, we will endeavor in good faith to resolve the conflict in a manner not adverse to either our stockholders or the limited partners; provided, however, that for so long as we own a controlling interest in our Operating Partnership, we will agree to resolve any conflict that cannot be resolved in a manner not adverse to either our stockholders or the limited partners in favor of our stockholders. We will not be liable under the partnership agreement to our Operating Partnership or to any limited partner for monetary damages for losses sustained, liabilities incurred, or benefits not derived by limited partners in connection with such decisions so long as we have acted in good faith.
Organization and Capital Contributions
As of January 1, 2022, approximately 70% of our Operating Partnership is owned by Bluerock Residential through its wholly owned subsidiary, Bluerock REIT Holdings, LLC (“Holdings LLC”). In connection with the Separation, the limited partnership interest held by Holdings LLC and the general partner interest held by Bluerock Residential in our Operating Partnership will be contributed to us.
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Following the Separation and Distribution, we will be considered an umbrella partnership real estate investment trust (an “UPREIT”). An UPREIT is a structure that allows REITs the ability to acquire real property from sellers on a tax-deferred basis (to the sellers), as sellers can generally defer taxable gain that otherwise would be required to be recognized by them upon the disposition of their property when such property is exchanged for interests in an operating partnership. Such sellers may also desire to achieve diversity in their investment and other benefits afforded to stockholders in a REIT. We believe that our Operating Partnership has been, and will continue to be, treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, our proportionate share of the assets and income of our Operating Partnership will be deemed to be assets and income of Bluerock Homes for purposes of satisfying the asset and gross income tests for qualification as a REIT.
We will be obligated to contribute the net proceeds of any future offering of shares as additional capital to our Operating Partnership and will be deemed to have made additional capital contributions in the amount of the gross offering proceeds we receive. If we contribute additional capital to our Operating Partnership, we will receive additional OP units and our percentage interest will be increased on a proportionate basis based upon the amount of such additional capital contributions and the value of our Operating Partnership at the time of such contributions. Conversely, the percentage interests of the limited partners will be decreased on a proportionate basis in the event of additional capital contributions by us. The partnership agreement will provide that if our Operating Partnership requires additional funds at any time in excess of funds available to our Operating Partnership from cash flow, borrowings by our Operating Partnership or capital contributions, we may borrow such funds from a financial institution or other lenders and lend such funds to our Operating Partnership on the same terms and conditions as are applicable to our borrowing of such funds. In addition, if we contribute additional capital to our Operating Partnership, we will revalue the property of our Operating Partnership to its fair market value (as determined by us) and the capital accounts of the partners will be adjusted to reflect the manner in which the unrealized gain or loss inherent in such property (that has not been reflected in the capital accounts previously) would be allocated among the partners under the terms of the partnership agreement, if there were a taxable disposition of such property for its fair market value (as determined by us) on the date of the revaluation.
Classes of Partnership Units
Subject to our discretion as general partner to create additional classes of limited partnership interests, our Operating Partnership will have two classes of limited partnership interests. These classes will be the OP units and the LTIP units. See “—LTIP Units” below. Certain OP units will be designated as “C-OP Units” and certain LTIP units will be designated as “C-LTIP Units.” In calculating the percentage interests of our Operating Partnership’s limited partners, holders of LTIP units will be treated as holders of OP units and LTIP units will be treated as OP units.
We expect that our Operating Partnership will issue OP units to limited partners, including us, in exchange for capital contributions of cash or property, including in connection with the contribution of the net proceeds of any future offering of our shares, as described above, and that our Operating Partnership will issue LTIP units, pursuant to the BHM Incentive Plans, to persons (including our Manager, directors and employees) or entities who provide services to us. In addition, our Operating Partnership will issue C-LTIP Units to our Manager pursuant to the Management Agreement. One half of each quarterly installment of each of the base management fee and the incentive fee under the Management Agreement will be payable in C-LTIP Units, and the remainder of each of the management fee and the incentive fee will be payable in cash or in C-LTIP Units, at the election of our board of directors. Additional C-LTIP Units will also be issuable to our executive officers or other service providers of Bluerock Homes at the discretion of our board of directors.
As general partner, we may cause our Operating Partnership to issue additional OP units or LTIP units for any consideration, or we may cause the creation of a new class of limited partnership interests, at our sole and absolute discretion. As general partner, we may elect to issue LTIP units subject to vesting agreements, which may provide that a recipient’s rights in such LTIP units vest over time, vest based upon our company’s performance or vest based upon any other conditions that we determine. The only difference between vested and unvested LTIP units is that unvested LTIP units may not be converted into OP units. Taking these differences into account, when we refer to “Partnership Units,” we are referring to OP units and vested and unvested LTIP units collectively.
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Amendments to the Partnership Agreement
Amendments to the partnership agreement may be proposed by us, as general partner, or by limited partners holding 66 2/3% or more of all of the outstanding OP units and LTIP units held by limited partners other than us.
Generally, the partnership agreement will not be able to be amended, modified, or terminated without our approval and the written consent of limited partners holding more than 66 2/3% of all of the outstanding Partnership Units held by limited partners other than us if such actions would adversely affect the rights, privileges and protections afforded to the limited partners under the partnership agreement. As general partner, we will have the power to unilaterally make certain amendments to the partnership agreement without obtaining the consent of the limited partners, as may be necessary to:
| · | add to our obligations as general partner or surrender any right or power granted to us as general partner for the benefit of the limited partners; |
| · | reflect the issuance of additional Partnership Units or the admission, substitution, termination or withdrawal of partners in accordance with the terms of the partnership agreement; |
| · | set forth or amend the designations, rights, powers, duties, and preferences of the holders of any additional Partnership Units issued by our Operating Partnership; |
| · | reflect a change of an inconsequential nature that does not adversely affect the limited partners in any material respect, or cure any ambiguity, correct or supplement any provisions of the partnership agreement not inconsistent with law or with other provisions of the partnership agreement, or make other changes concerning matters under the partnership agreement that will not otherwise be inconsistent with the partnership agreement or law; |
| · | reflect changes that are reasonably necessary for us to qualify and maintain our qualification as a REIT; |
| · | modify the manner in which capital accounts are computed; |
| · | include provisions referenced in future federal income tax guidance relating to compensatory partnership interests that we determine are reasonably necessary in respect of such guidance; or |
| · | satisfy any requirements, conditions or guidelines of federal or state law. |
Amendments that would, among other things, convert a limited partner’s interest into a general partner’s interest, modify the limited liability of a limited partner, adversely alter a partner’s right to receive any distributions or allocations of profits or losses or adversely alter or modify the redemption rights, or alter the protections of the limited partners in connection with the transactions described in “—Restrictions on Mergers, Sales, Transfers and Other Significant Transactions” must be approved by each limited partner that would be adversely affected by such amendment.
In addition, we, as general partner, will not be permitted to do any of the following except as expressly authorized in the partnership agreement:
| · | without the written consent of limited partners holding more than 66 2/3% of all of the outstanding Partnership Units held by limited partners other than us, take any action in contravention of an express prohibition or limitation contained in the partnership agreement; |
| · | enter into or conduct any business other than in connection with our role as general partner of our Operating Partnership and our operation as a REIT; |
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| · | acquire an interest in real or personal property other than through our Operating Partnership; or |
| · | except as described in “—Restrictions on Mergers, Sales, Transfers and Other Significant Transactions,” withdraw from our Operating Partnership or transfer any portion of our general partnership interest. |
Restrictions on Mergers, Sales, Transfers and Other Significant Transactions
We will not be able to voluntarily withdraw from our Operating Partnership or transfer or assign our general partnership interest in our Operating Partnership or engage in any merger, consolidation or other combination, or sale of all, or substantially all, of our assets in a transaction which results in a change of control of Bluerock Homes (as general partner) unless:
| · | we receive the consent of limited partners holding more than 50% of the Partnership Units held by the limited partners (other than those held by us or our subsidiaries); |
| · | as a result of such a transaction, all limited partners (other than us or our subsidiaries) holding Partnership Units will receive for each Partnership Unit an amount of cash, securities or other property equal in value to the amount of cash, securities or other property they would have received if their Partnership Units had been converted into shares of our common stock immediately prior to such transaction, provided that, if, in connection with the transaction, a purchase, tender or exchange offer shall have been made to, and accepted by, the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of our common stock, each holder of OP units (other than us or our subsidiaries) shall be given the option to exchange such OP units for the greatest amount of cash, securities or other property that a limited partner would have received had it (A) exercised its redemption right (described below) and (B) sold, tendered or exchanged pursuant to the offer shares of our common stock received upon exercise of the redemption right immediately prior to the expiration of the offer; or |
| · | we are the surviving entity in the transaction and either (A) our stockholders do not receive cash, securities or other property in the transaction or (B) all limited partners (other than us or our subsidiaries) receive for each Partnership Unit an amount of cash, securities or other property having a value that is no less than the greatest amount of cash, securities or other property received in the transaction by our stockholders. |
We will be able to merge or consolidate with another entity, if immediately after such merger or consolidation, (i) substantially all of the assets of the successor or surviving entity, other than OP units held by us, are contributed, directly or indirectly, to our Operating Partnership as a capital contribution in exchange for OP units with a fair market value equal to the value of the assets so contributed as determined by the survivor in good faith and (ii) the survivor in such merger or consolidation expressly agrees to assume all of our obligations under our partnership agreement and such partnership agreement is amended after any such merger or consolidation so as to arrive at a new method of calculating the amounts payable upon exercise of conversion or redemption rights that approximates the existing method for such calculation as closely as reasonably possible.
We also will be able to (i) transfer all or any portion of our general partnership interest to (A) a wholly owned subsidiary or (B) a parent company, and following such transfer may withdraw as the general partner and (ii) engage in a transaction required by law or by the rules of any national securities exchange on which shares of our common stock are listed.
Limited partners may not transfer their Partnership Units without our consent, as our Operating Partnership’s general partner.
Issuance of Additional Limited Partnership Interests
As the sole general partner of our Operating Partnership, we will be authorized, without the consent of the limited partners, to cause our Operating Partnership to issue additional limited partnership interests to us, to other limited partners or to other persons for such consideration and on such terms and conditions as we deem appropriate. If additional limited partnership interests are issued to us, then, unless the additional limited partnership interests are issued in connection with a contribution of property to our Operating Partnership, we will be required to (1) issue additional shares of our common stock and contribute to our Operating Partnership the entire proceeds received by us from such issuance or (2) issue additional limited partnership interests to all limited partners in proportion to their respective interests in our Operating Partnership. In addition, we will be able to cause our Operating Partnership to issue to us additional limited partnership interests in different series or classes, which may be senior to the existing Partnership Units, in connection with an offering of our securities having substantially similar rights, in which the proceeds thereof are contributed to our Operating Partnership. Consideration for additional limited partnership interests may be cash or other property or assets. No person, including any partner or assignee, will have any preemptive, preferential or similar rights with respect to additional capital contributions to our Operating Partnership or the issuance or sale of any partnership interests therein.
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Our Operating Partnership may issue limited partnership interests that are OP units, limited partnership interests that are preferred as to distributions and upon liquidation to our OP units, LTIP units, and other types of units with such rights and obligations as may be established by us, as the sole general partner of our Operating Partnership, from time to time.
Redemption Rights
Pursuant to the partnership agreement, any holders of OP units, other than us or our subsidiaries, will receive redemption rights, which will enable them to cause our Operating Partnership to redeem their OP units in exchange for, in the case of C-OP Units, cash, or, at our option, shares of our Class C common stock, and, in the case of all other OP Units, cash or, at our option, shares of our common stock. The cash redemption amount per share of common stock will be based, in the case of C-OP Units, on the fair market value as determined by us acting in good faith, and in the case of all other OP Units, on the market price of our common stock at the time of redemption, in each case, multiplied by the conversion ratio set forth in our partnership agreement. Alternatively, we may elect to purchase the OP units by issuing shares of the applicable class of our common stock for OP units, based on the conversion ratio set forth in our partnership agreement.
The conversion ratio will initially be one to one (1:1), but will be adjusted based on certain events including: (i) any distribution in shares of our common stock to holders of our outstanding common stock, (ii) any subdivision of our outstanding common stock, or (iii) any reverse split of our outstanding shares of common stock into a smaller number of shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a limited partner will not be entitled to exercise its redemption rights if the delivery of shares of our common stock to the redeeming limited partner would:
| · | result in any person owning, directly or indirectly, shares of our common stock in excess of the stock ownership limits in our charter; |
| · | result in our common stock being beneficially owned by fewer than 100 persons (determined without reference to any rules of attribution); |
| · | result in our being “closely held” within the meaning of Section 856(h) of the Code; |
| · | cause us to own, actually or constructively, 10% or more of the ownership interests in a tenant (other than a TRS) of ours, our Operating Partnership’s or a subsidiary partnership’s real property, within the meaning of Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Code; |
| · | cause us to fail to qualify as a REIT under the Code; or |
| · | cause the acquisition of our common stock by such redeeming limited partner to be “integrated” with any other distribution of common stock for purposes of complying with the registration provisions of the Securities Act. |
We may, in our sole and absolute discretion, waive certain of these restrictions.
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Subject to the foregoing, limited partners of our Operating Partnership holding OP units will be able to exercise their redemption rights (x) at any time, with respect to OP units held by such limited partners at the time of the Separation and Distribution, and (y) after one year following the date of issuance of their OP units, with respect to OP units acquired by limited partners after the Separation and Distribution. However, a limited partner will not be permitted to deliver more than two notices of redemption during each calendar year (subject to the terms of any agreement between us, as general partner, and a limited partner) and will not be permitted to exercise its redemption right for less than 1,000 OP units (unless such limited partner holds less than 1,000 OP units, in which case, it must exercise its redemption right for all of its OP units). In the event a limited partner of our Operating Partnership exercises its redemption rights, and we elect to redeem the OP units by the issuance of shares of our common stock, we expect to issue unregistered shares, or shares that will be registered after completion of our first underwritten public offering, if any, in connection with any such redemption transaction.
Exculpation and Indemnification of the General Partner
The partnership agreement provides for the indemnification of us as the general partner, and of our officers, directors and employees and any other persons we may designate from and against any and all claims that relate to the operations of our Operating Partnership as set forth in the partnership agreement in which any such indemnitee may be involved, or is threatened to be involved, as a party or otherwise, unless it is established that:
| · | the act or omission of the indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and either was committed in bad faith or was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty; |
| · | the indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services; or |
| · | in the case of any criminal proceeding, the indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful. |
Similarly, the partnership agreement provides that we are not liable to our Operating Partnership or any partner for monetary damages for losses sustained or liabilities incurred as a result of errors in judgment or mistakes of fact or law or of any act or omission if any such party acted in good faith.
In addition, the partnership agreement provides that any such indemnification of any such indemnitee shall be made only out of the assets of our Operating Partnership. Our Operating Partnership must also pay or reimburse the reasonable expenses of any such indemnitee in advance of a final disposition of the proceeding upon its receipt of a written affirmation by the indemnitee of the indemnitee’s good faith belief that the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification has been met and a written undertaking by or on behalf of the indemnitee to repay any amounts paid or advanced if it is ultimately determined that the indemnitee did not meet the standard of conduct for indemnification.
Pursuant to the partnership agreement, the limited partners of our Operating Partnership expressly acknowledge that as the general partner of our Operating Partnership, we are acting for the benefit of our Operating Partnership, the limited partners and our stockholders collectively, and that in such capacity we are under no obligation to consider the separate interests of the limited partners (including, without limitation, the tax consequences to some or all of the limited partners) in deciding whether to cause our Operating Partnership to take, or decline to take, any actions. The partnership agreement provides that in the event of a conflict between the interests of our stockholders on the one hand, and the limited partners of our Operating Partnership on the other hand, we as the general partner will endeavor in good faith to resolve the conflict in a manner not adverse to either our stockholders or the limited partners; provided, however, that so long as we own a controlling interest in our Operating Partnership, any such conflict that we, in our capacity as the general partner, in our sole and absolute discretion, determine cannot be resolved in a manner not adverse to either our stockholders or the limited partners of our Operating Partnership will be resolved in favor of our stockholders, and that we will not be liable for monetary damages for losses sustained, liabilities incurred or benefits not derived by the limited partners in connection with such decisions.
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No Removal of the General Partner
We may not be removed as general partner by the limited partners with or without cause.
Registration Rights
Pursuant to the terms of our partnership agreement, one year after the Distribution and subject to certain further conditions as set forth in the partnership agreement, we will be obligated to file a registration statement covering the issuance or resale of shares of common stock received by limited partners who held their Partnership Units as of the date of the partnership agreement (including their transferees and assigns) upon such limited partners’ redemption of their OP units, under which we will agree:
| · | to use our commercially reasonable efforts to have the registration statement declared effective; |
| · | to register or qualify such shares under the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdictions within the United States as required by law; |
| · | to list our shares of common stock issued pursuant to the exercise of redemption rights on any securities exchange or national market system upon which our shares of common stock are then listed; and |
| · | to indemnify limited partners exercising redemption rights against all losses caused by any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the registration statement, preliminary prospectus or prospectus or caused by any omission to state a material fact required to be stated or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, except insofar as such losses are caused by any untrue statement or omission based upon information furnished to us by such limited partners. |
As a condition to our obligations with respect to such registration, each limited partner will agree:
| · | that it will not offer or sell shares of common stock that are issued upon redemption of its OP units until such shares have been included in an effective registration statement; |
| · | that, if we determine in good faith that registration of shares for resale would require the disclosure of important information that we have a business purpose for preserving as confidential, the registration rights of each limited partner will be suspended until we notify such limited partners that suspension of their registration rights is no longer necessary (so long as we do not suspend their rights for more than 180 days in any 12-month period); and |
| · | that if we propose an underwritten public offering, it will agree not to effect any offer, sale or distribution of our shares of common stock during the period commencing on the tenth day prior to the expected effective date of a registration statement filed with respect to the public offering or commencement date of a proposed offering and ending on the date specified by the managing underwriter for such offering; and to indemnify us and each of our officers, directors and controlling persons against all losses caused by any untrue statement or omission contained in (or omitted from) any registration statement based upon information furnished to us by such limited partner. |
Subject to certain exceptions, our Operating Partnership will pay all expenses in connection with the exercise of registration rights under our partnership agreement.
LTIP Units
In general, LTIP units (including C-LTIP Units) will receive the same per-unit distributions as the OP units. When issued, each LTIP unit will have a capital account balance of zero and, therefore, will not have full parity with OP units with respect to liquidating distributions. However, our partnership agreement will provide that our Operating Partnership’s assets will be revalued upon the occurrence of certain events and any resulting increase in valuation will be allocated first to the LTIP unitholders to equalize the capital accounts of such holders with the capital account of the general partner’s OP units.
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Upon equalization of the capital accounts of the LTIP unitholders with the average per-unit capital account of the general partner’s OP units, the LTIP units will achieve full parity with OP units for all purposes, including with respect to liquidating distributions. If such parity is reached, vested LTIP units may be converted into an equal number of OP units at any time, and thereafter enjoy all the rights of OP units. C-LTIP Units may only be converted into C-OP Units and all other LTIP Units may only be converted into common OP Units. If a sale or revaluation of assets occurs at a time when our Operating Partnership’s assets have appreciated sufficiently since the last revaluation, the LTIP units would achieve full parity with the OP units upon such sale or revaluation. In the absence of sufficient appreciation in the value of our Operating Partnership’s assets at the time of a sale or revaluation, full parity would not be reached.
Consequently, an LTIP unit may never become convertible because the value of our Operating Partnership’s assets may not appreciate sufficiently between revaluations to equalize capital accounts. Until and unless parity is reached, the value for a given number of vested LTIP units will be less than the value of an equal number of our shares of common stock.
Operations
Our partnership agreement will require that our Operating Partnership be operated in a manner that will (1) enable us to satisfy the requirements for qualification as a REIT for tax purposes and avoid any U.S. federal income or excise tax liability, and (2) ensure that our Operating Partnership will not be classified as a “publicly traded partnership” for purposes of Section 7704 of the Code, which classification could result in our Operating Partnership being taxed as a corporation, rather than as a partnership, for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Rights, Obligations and Powers of the General Partner
As our Operating Partnership’s general partner, generally we will have complete and exclusive discretion to manage and control our Operating Partnership’s business and to make all decisions affecting its assets. This authority generally will include, among other things, the authority to:
| · | acquire, purchase, own, operate, lease and dispose of any real property and any other property; |
| · | construct buildings and make other improvements on owned or leased properties; |
| · | authorize, issue, sell, redeem or otherwise purchase any OP units or any securities of the Operating Partnership; |
| · | borrow or lend money; |
| · | make or revoke any tax election; |
| · | maintain insurance coverage in amounts and types as we determine is necessary; |
| · | retain employees or other service providers; |
| · | form or acquire interests in joint ventures; and |
| · | merge, consolidate or combine our Operating Partnership with another entity. |
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In addition to the administrative and operating costs and expenses incurred by our Operating Partnership, our Operating Partnership generally will pay all of our administrative costs and expenses, including:
| · | all expenses relating to our continuity of existence and our subsidiaries’ operations; |
| · | all expenses relating to offerings and registration of securities; |
| · | all expenses associated with the preparation and filing of any of our periodic or other reports and communications under U.S. federal, state or local laws or regulations; |
| · | all expenses associated with our compliance with laws, rules and regulations promulgated by any regulatory body; and |
| · | all of our other operating or administrative costs incurred in the ordinary course of business on behalf of our Operating Partnership. |
These expenses, however, do not include any of our administrative and operating costs and expenses incurred that are attributable to properties or interests in subsidiaries that are owned by us directly rather than by our Operating Partnership or its subsidiaries, if any.
Fiduciary Responsibilities of the General Partner
Our directors and officers will have duties under applicable Maryland law to manage us in a manner consistent with the best interests of our stockholders. At the same time, we, as the general partner of our Operating Partnership, will have fiduciary duties to manage our Operating Partnership in a manner beneficial to our Operating Partnership and its partners. Our duties, as general partner to our Operating Partnership and its limited partners, therefore, may come into conflict with the duties of our directors and officers to our stockholders. In the event that a conflict of interest exists between the interests of our stockholders, on the one hand, and our Operating Partnership’s limited partners, on the other, we will endeavor in good faith to resolve the conflict in a manner not adverse to either our stockholders or such limited partners. However, any such conflict that we determine cannot be resolved in a manner not adverse to either our stockholders or such limited partners shall be resolved in favor of our stockholders. The limited partners of our Operating Partnership will acknowledge expressly that in the event of such a determination by us, as the general partner of our Operating Partnership, we will not be liable to such limited partners for losses sustained or benefits not realized in connection with, or as a result of, such a determination.
Distributions; Allocations of Profits and Losses
Our partnership agreement will provide that our Operating Partnership will distribute cash from operations at times and in amounts determined by us, as the sole general partner of our Operating Partnership, in our sole discretion, to the partners, in accordance with their respective percentage interests in our Operating Partnership. We will cause our Operating Partnership to distribute annually to us amounts sufficient to allow us to satisfy the annual distribution requirements necessary for us to qualify and maintain our qualification as a REIT, currently 90%, of our REIT taxable income (determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains). We generally intend to cause our Operating Partnership to distribute annually to us an amount equal to at least 100% of our taxable income, which we will then distribute to our stockholders. To the extent that we distribute at least 90% our REIT taxable income (determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains), but less than 100% of our taxable income, we will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on such undistributed amount.
Upon liquidation of our Operating Partnership, after payment of, or adequate provision for, debts and obligations of our Operating Partnership, including any partner loans, any remaining assets of our Operating Partnership will be distributed to all partners with positive capital accounts in accordance with their respective positive capital account balances. If any partner has a deficit balance in its capital account (after giving effect to all contributions, distributions and allocations for all taxable years, including the year during which such liquidation occurs), such partner shall have no obligation to make any contribution to the capital of our Operating Partnership with respect to such deficit, and such deficit shall not be considered a debt owed to our Operating Partnership or to any other person for any purpose whatsoever.
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Income, expenses, gains and losses of our Operating Partnership will generally be allocated among the partners in a manner consistent with the distribution of cash described in “—Distributions; Allocations of Profits and Losses” above. Upon the occurrence of certain specified events, as described in “ —LTIP Units” above, our Operating Partnership will revalue its assets and any net increase in valuation will be allocated first to the LTIP units to equalize the capital accounts of such holders with the capital accounts of OP units. All of the foregoing allocations are subject to compliance with the provisions of Sections 704(b) and 704(c) of the Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder. To the extent that Treasury Regulations promulgated pursuant to Section 704(c) of the Code permit, we, as the general partner, will have the authority to elect the method to be used by our Operating Partnership for allocating items with respect to contributed property acquired in connection with any future offering for which fair market value differs from the adjusted tax basis at the time of contribution, and such election will be binding on all partners.
Term and Termination
Our Operating Partnership will continue indefinitely, or until sooner dissolved upon:
| · | our bankruptcy, dissolution, removal or withdrawal (unless the limited partners elect to continue the partnership); |
| · | the passage of 90 days after the sale or other disposition of all, or substantially all, of the assets of the partnership; |
| · | the redemption of all limited partnership interests (other than those held by us or our subsidiaries) unless we decide to continue the partnership by the admission of one or more limited partners; or |
| · | an election by us in our capacity as the general partner. |
Tax Matters
Our partnership agreement will provide that we, as the sole general partner of our Operating Partnership, will be the “partnership representative” of our Operating Partnership and, as such, will have authority to handle tax audits and to make tax elections under the Code on behalf of our Operating Partnership.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We have filed a registration statement on Form 10 with the SEC with respect to the Bluerock Homes common stock being distributed as contemplated by this information statement. This information statement is a part of, and does not contain all of the information set forth in, the registration statement and the exhibits and schedules to the registration statement. For further information with respect to Bluerock Homes and its common stock, please refer to the registration statement, including its exhibits and schedules. Statements made in this information statement relating to any contract or other document are not necessarily complete, and you should refer to the exhibits attached to the registration statement for copies of the actual contract or document. You may review a copy of the registration statement, including its exhibits and schedules, on the Internet website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Information contained on any website referenced in this information statement is not incorporated by reference in this information statement.
As a result of the Distribution, we will become subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and, in accordance with the Exchange Act, will file periodic reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC.
We plan to make available, free of charge, on Bluerock Homes’ Internet website at www.bluerockhomes.com its Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, reports filed pursuant to Section 16 of the Exchange Act and amendments to those reports as soon as reasonably practicable after it electronically files or furnishes such materials to the SEC.
You should rely only on the information contained in this information statement or to which this information statement has referred you. We have not authorized any person to provide you with different information or to make any representation not contained in this information statement.
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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
INDEX TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page
Financial Statements
| Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | F-2 |
| Combined Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 | F-3 |
| Combined Statement of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 | F-4 |
| Combined Statement of Net Parent Investment for the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 | F-5 |
| Combined Statement of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 | F-6 |
| Notes to Combined Financial Statements | F-8 |
F-1
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Board of Directors and Shareholders
Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying combined balance sheets of Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the related combined statements of operations, changes in net parent investment, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2021, and the related notes and financial statement schedules included under Item 15(a) (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the combined financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2021, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB and in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2021.
Southfield, Michigan
March 7, 2022
F-2
BLUEROCK HOMES TRUST, INC.
COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)
| December 31, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||
| Net Real Estate Investments | ||||||||
| Land | $ | 41,997 | $ | 2,027 | ||||
| Buildings and improvements | 278,592 | 27,197 | ||||||
| Furniture, fixtures and equipment | 2,459 | 1,175 | ||||||
| Total Gross Real Estate Investments | 323,048 | 30,399 | ||||||
| Accumulated depreciation | (4,964 | ) | (1,334 | ) | ||||
| Total Net Real Estate Investments | 318,084 | 29,065 | ||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 128,861 | 41,021 | ||||||
| Restricted cash | 7,540 | 261 | ||||||
| Notes and accrued interest receivable, net | 38,883 | 36,853 | ||||||
| Accounts receivable, prepaids and other assets, net | 4,917 | 3,292 | ||||||
| Preferred equity investments and investments in unconsolidated real estate joint ventures, net | 39,521 | 6,488 | ||||||
| In-place lease intangible assets, net | 2,525 | |||||||
| TOTAL ASSETS | $ | 540,331 | $ | 116,980 | ||||
| LIABILITIES AND NET PARENT INVESTMENT | ||||||||
| Mortgages payable | $ | 63,007 | $ | 20,908 | ||||
| Revolving credit facilities | — | 33,000 | ||||||
| Accounts payable | 2,087 | 169 | ||||||
| Other accrued liabilities | 10,666 | 6,289 | ||||||
| Due to affiliates | 506 | 466 | ||||||
| Distributions payable | 3,115 | 2,512 | ||||||
| Total Liabilities | 79,381 | 63,344 | ||||||
| Net Parent Investment | ||||||||
| Bluerock Homes Equity | 439,219 | 52,845 | ||||||
| Noncontrolling Interests | 21,731 | 791 | ||||||
| Total Net Parent Investment | 460,950 | 53,636 | ||||||
| TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET PARENT INVESTMENT | $ | 540,331 | $ | 116,980 | ||||
See Notes to Combined Financial Statements
F-3
BLUEROCK HOMES TRUST, INC.
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands)
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Revenues | ||||||||
| Rental and other property revenues | $ | 9,275 | $ | 2,559 | ||||
| Interest income from loan investments | 4,452 | 3,077 | ||||||
| Total revenues | 13,727 | 5,636 | ||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||
| Property operating | 3,227 | 890 | ||||||
| Property management fees | 550 | 77 | ||||||
| General and administrative | 3,062 | 1,148 | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 5,862 | 1,861 | ||||||
| Total expenses | 12,701 | 3,976 | ||||||
| Operating income | 1,026 | 1,660 | ||||||
| Other income (expense) | ||||||||
| Other income | 250 | — | ||||||
| Preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures | 1,974 | 839 | ||||||
| Provision for credit losses | (47 | ) | (85 | ) | ||||
| Interest expense, net | (2,915 | ) | (3,193 | ) | ||||
| Total other expense | (738 | ) | (2,439 | ) | ||||
| Net income (loss) | 288 | (779 | ) | |||||
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests | (630 | ) | (85 | ) | ||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to Bluerock Homes | $ | 918 | $ | (694 | ) | |||
See Notes to Combined Financial Statements
F-4
BLUEROCK HOMES TRUST, INC.
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF NET PARENT INVESTMENT
(In thousands)
| Bluerock Homes Equity | Noncontrolling Interests | Total Net Parent Investment | ||||||||||
| Balance, January 1, 2020 | $ | 35,019 | $ | 941 | $ | 35,960 | ||||||
| Distributions to partially owned noncontrolling interests | — | (65 | ) | (65 | ) | |||||||
| Contributions, net | 18,520 | — | 18,520 | |||||||||
| Net loss | (694 | ) | (85 | ) | (779 | ) | ||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2020 | $ | 52,845 | $ | 791 | $ | 53,636 | ||||||
| Distributions to partially owned noncontrolling interests | — | (282 | ) | (282 | ) | |||||||
| Contributions, net | 385,456 | 21,852 | 407,308 | |||||||||
| Net income (loss) | 918 | (630 | ) | 288 | ||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2021 | $ | 439,219 | $ | 21,731 | $ | 460,950 | ||||||
See Notes to Combined Financial Statements
F-5
BLUEROCK HOMES TRUST, INC.
COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Cash flows from operating activities | ||||||||
| Net income (loss) | $ | 288 | $ | (779 | ) | |||
| Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: | ||||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 6,869 | 2,886 | ||||||
| Amortization of fair value adjustments | (261 | ) | (88 | ) | ||||
| Preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures | (1,974 | ) | (839 | ) | ||||
| Provision for credit losses | 47 | 85 | ||||||
| Distributions of income and preferred returns from preferred equity investments and unconsolidated real estate joint ventures | 1,581 | 559 | ||||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||
| Due to affiliates, net | 40 | 491 | ||||||
| Accounts receivable, prepaids and other assets | (1,564 | ) | 556 | |||||
| Notes and accrued interest receivable | (2,015 | ) | (608 | ) | ||||
| Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities | 5,397 | 289 | ||||||
| Net cash provided by operating activities | 8,408 | 2,552 | ||||||
| Cash flows from investing activities | ||||||||
| Acquisitions of real estate investments | (254,880 | ) | (47 | ) | ||||
| Capital expenditures | (988 | ) | (175 | ) | ||||
| Investment in notes receivable | (9,893 | ) | (22,500 | ) | ||||
| Repayments on notes receivable | 9,893 | 21,000 | ||||||
| Proceeds from redemption of unconsolidated real estate joint venture | 6,500 | |||||||
| Investments in unconsolidated real estate joint venture interests | (39,595 | ) | (1,817 | ) | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (288,963 | ) | (3,539 | ) | ||||
| Cash flows from financing activities | ||||||||
| Distributions paid | 603 | 745 | ||||||
| Distributions to noncontrolling interests | (282 | ) | (65 | ) | ||||
| Contributions from noncontrolling interests | 21,852 | — | ||||||
| Contributions from Parent | 385,456 | 18,520 | ||||||
| Borrowings on mortgages payable | 2,573 | |||||||
| Repayments on mortgages payable | (323 | ) | ||||||
| Proceeds from credit facilities | 30,000 | 384,189 | ||||||
| Repayments on credit facilities | (63,000 | ) | (369,189 | ) | ||||
| Payments of deferred financing fees | (1,205 | ) | (951 | ) | ||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 375,674 | 33,249 | ||||||
| Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | 95,119 | 32,262 | ||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of year | 41,282 | 9,020 | ||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of year | $ | 136,401 | $ | 41,282 | ||||
| Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | ||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 128,861 | $ | 41,021 | ||||
| Restricted cash | 7,540 | 261 | ||||||
| Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of year | $ | 136,401 | $ | 41,282 | ||||
F-6
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information | ||||||||
| Cash paid for interest (net of interest capitalized) | $ | 2,124 | $ | 2,455 | ||||
| Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities | ||||||||
| Distributions payable – declared and unpaid | $ | 3,115 | $ | 2,512 | ||||
| Mortgages assumed upon property acquisitions | 40,501 | — | ||||||
| Capital expenditures held in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities | $ | 896 | $ | 6 | ||||
See Notes to Combined Financial Statements
F-7
BLUEROCK HOMES Trust, Inc.
Notes to Combined Financial Statements
Note 1 – Organization and Nature of Business
Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. (“The Company” or “Bluerock Homes”) has historically operated as part of Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. (“Bluerock Residential” or “Parent”) and not as a stand alone company. Financial statements representing the historical operations of Bluerock Residential’s single-family rental business have been derived from Bluerock Residential’s historical accounting records and are presented on a carve-out basis. All revenues and costs as well as assets and liabilities directly associated with the business activity of the Company are included in the financial statements. The financial statements also include allocations of certain general, administrative, sales and marketing expenses and operations from Bluerock Residential. However, amounts recognized by the Company are not necessarily representative of the amounts that would have been reflected in the financial statements had the Company operated independently of Bluerock Residential. Related-party allocations are discussed further in Note 10. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
On December 20, 2021, Bluerock Residential, Badger Parent LLC (“Badger Parent”) and Badger Merger Sub LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Badger Parent (“Merger Sub”), entered into an agreement and plan of merger (the “Merger Agreement”) pursuant to which, on the terms and conditions set forth therein, Bluerock Residential will merge with and into Merger Sub, with Merger Sub continuing as the surviving company in the merger (the “Merger”). Under the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential has agreed with Badger Parent that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Bluerock Residential will use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the contribution of certain single-family properties and other assets, which are held through investments in the general and limited partner interests in the operating partnership of Bluerock Residential, to the Company, on the terms and subject to the conditions of a separation and distribution agreement (the “Separation,” and the properties, the “Single-Family Properties”), and the distribution of shares of Company common stock (the “Distribution”). In addition, the completion of the Separation and the Distribution is a condition to the Merger under the Merger Agreement.
Prior to the Distribution and the effective time of the Merger (the “Merger Effective Time”), Bluerock Residential will complete the Separation to separate the Single-Family Properties and certain other assets such that these businesses and assets are owned and operated by Bluerock Residential Holdings and its subsidiaries.
Following the Distribution, the Company will own an aggregate of 3,840 residential rental units held through twenty-seven real estate investments, consisting of nineteen operating investments and eight investments held through preferred equity or loan investments. As of December 31, 2021, the Company’s operating investments were approximately 93.3% occupied.
Note 2 – Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
Bluerock Homes consists of the combined financial statements of the following entities and investments: the Operating Partnership, Bluerock REIT Operator, LLC, Golden Pacific, ILE, Navigator Villas, Peak Housing (Axelrod, DFW 189, Granbury, Indy, Lubbock, Lubbock 2.0, Lubbock 3.0, Lynnwood, Lynnwood 2.0, Peak I, Springfield, Springtown, Springtown 2.0, Texarkana and Texas Portfolio 183), The Cottages at Myrtle Beach, The Cottages at Warner Robins, The Cottages of Port St. Lucie, The Hartley at Blue Hill, The Woods at Forest Hill, Wayford at Concord, Wayford at Innovation Park, Willow Park, and Yauger Park Villas. The general and administrative expenses have been allocated to the Company based on relative unit count, which the Company believes to be a reasonable methodology. These allocated expenses are for corporate office expenses and management including, but not limited to, executive oversight, asset management, treasury, finance, human resources, tax, accounting, financial reporting, information technology and investor relations.
F-8
In accordance with adoption of the lease accounting update issued in July 2018, the Company reflects all income earned pursuant to tenant leases in a single line item, “Rental and other property revenues,” in the combined statements of operations.
Significant Risks and Uncertainties
At the present time, one of the most significant risks and uncertainties is the potential adverse effect of the current pandemic of Covid-19. The Company’s tenants may experience financial difficulty due to the loss of their jobs and some have requested rent deferral or rent abatement during this pandemic. Experts have predicted that the outbreak will trigger, or has already triggered, a period of global economic slowdown or a global recession.
The Covid-19 pandemic could have material and adverse effects on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows in the near term due to, but not limited to, the following:
| · | reduced economic activity may impact the employment of the Company’s tenants and their ability to pay their obligations to the Company, thus requesting modifications of such obligations, resulting in increases in uncollectible receivables and reductions in rental income; |
| · | the negative financial impact of the pandemic could impact the Company’s future compliance with financial covenants of its credit facilities and other debt agreements; |
| · | weaker economic conditions could require that the Company recognize impairment in value of its real estate assets due to a reduction in property income; |
| · | the Company’s inability to maintain occupancy or leasing rates, or increase these rates at stabilizing development properties, including due to possible reduced foot traffic and lease applications from prospective tenants at the Company’s properties as a result of shelter-in-place orders and similar government guidelines; and |
| · | concentration of the Company’s properties in markets that may be more severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic due to its significant negative impact on certain key economic drivers in those markets, such as travel and entertainment. |
The extent to which the Covid-19 pandemic impacts the Company’s operations and those of its tenants will depend on future developments, which are uncertain and cannot be predicted with confidence, including the scope, severity and duration of the pandemic, the actions taken to contain the pandemic or mitigate its impact, and the direct and indirect economic effects of the pandemic and containment measures, among others.
In 2020, the Company had provided rent deferral payment plans as a result of hardships certain tenants experienced due to the impact of Covid-19. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company did not provide rent deferral payment plans, compared to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic (quarter ended June 30, 2020)in which 1% of the tenant base was on payment plans. Although the Company could receive tenant requests for rent deferrals in the coming months, the Company does not expect to waive its contractual rights under its lease agreements. Further, while occupancy remains strong at 93.3% as of December 31, 2021, in future periods, the Company may experience reduced levels of tenant retention as well as reduced foot traffic and lease applications from prospective tenants resulting from the impact of Covid-19.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Real Estate Investments and Preferred Equity Investments
The Company first analyzes an investment to determine if it is a VIE in accordance with Topic ASC 810 and, if so, whether the Company is the primary beneficiary requiring consolidation of the entity. A VIE is an entity that has (i) insufficient equity to permit it to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or (ii) equity holders that lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest. VIEs are consolidated by the primary beneficiary, which is the entity that has both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the entity that potentially could be significant to the entity. Variable interests in a VIE are contractual, ownership, or other financial interests in a VIE that change in value with changes in the fair value of the VIE’s net assets. The Company continuously re-assesses at each level of the investment whether (i) the entity is a VIE, and (ii) the Company is the primary beneficiary of the VIE. If it was determined that an entity in which the Company holds an interest qualified as a VIE and the Company was the primary beneficiary, the entity would be consolidated.
F-9
If, after consideration of the VIE accounting literature, the Company has determined that an entity is not a VIE, the Company assesses the need for consolidation under all other provisions of ASC 810. These provisions provide for consolidation of majority-owned entities through a majority voting interest held by the Company providing control.
In assessing whether the Company is in control of and requiring consolidation of the limited liability company and partnership venture structures, the Company evaluates the respective rights and privileges afforded each member or partner (collectively referred to as “member”). The Company’s member would not be deemed to control the entity if any of the other members has either (i) substantive kickout rights providing the ability to dissolve (liquidate) the entity or otherwise remove the managing member or general partner without cause or (ii) substantive participating rights in the entity. Substantive participating rights (whether granted by contract or law) provide for the ability to effectively participate in significant decisions of the entity that would be expected to be made in the ordinary course of business.
If it has been determined that the Company does not have control but does have the ability to exercise significant influence over the entity, the Company accounts for these investments as preferred equity investments and investments in unconsolidated real estate joint ventures in its consolidated balance sheets. In accordance with ASC 320 Investments – Debt Securities, the Company classifies each preferred equity investment as a held-to-maturity debt security as the Company has the intention and ability to hold the investment to maturity. The Company earns a fixed return on these investments which is included within preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures in its consolidated statements of operations. The Company evaluates the collectability of each preferred equity investment and estimates a provision for credit loss, as applicable. Refer to the CECL section of this Note for further information regarding CECL and the Company’s provision for credit losses.
Notes Receivable (Real Estate Loan Investment)
The Company analyzes each loan arrangement that involves real estate development to consider whether the loan qualifies for accounting as a loan or as an investment in a real estate development project. The Company has evaluated its real estate loans, where appropriate, for accounting treatment as loans versus real estate development projects, as required by ASC 310-10 Receivables. For each loan, the Company has concluded that the characteristics and the facts and circumstances indicate that loan accounting treatment is appropriate. The Company recognizes interest income on its notes receivable on the accrual method unless a significant uncertainty of collection exists. If a significant uncertainty exists, interest income is recognized as collected. Costs incurred to originate its notes receivable are deferred and amortized using the effective interest method over the term of the related notes receivable. The Company evaluates the collectability of each loan investment and estimates a provision for credit loss, as applicable. Refer to the CECL section of this Note for further information regarding CECL and the Company’s provision for credit losses.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
As of December 31, 2021, the carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, due to and due from affiliates, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and distributions payable approximate their fair value based on their highly-liquid nature and/or short-term maturities. The carrying values of notes receivable approximate fair value because stated interest rate terms are consistent with interest rate terms on new deals with similar leverage and risk profiles. The fair values of notes receivable are classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to the significant unobservable inputs that are utilized in their respective valuations. Refer to Note 9 for further information regarding fair value measurements.
F-10
Real Estate Assets
Capital Additions, Depreciation and Amortization
The Company capitalizes costs, including certain indirect costs, incurred in connection with its capital addition activities, including redevelopment, development and construction projects, other tangible property improvements, and replacements of existing property components. Included in these capitalized costs are payroll costs associated with time spent by employees in connection with capital addition activities at the property level. The Company characterizes as “indirect costs” an allocation of certain department costs, including payroll, at the corporate levels that clearly relate to capital additions activities. The Company also capitalizes interest, property taxes and insurance during periods in which redevelopment, development and construction projects are in progress. Cost capitalization begins once the development or construction activity commences and ceases when the asset is ready for its intended use. Repair and maintenance and tenant turnover costs are expensed as incurred. Repair and maintenance and tenant turnover costs include all costs that do not extend the useful life of the real estate asset. Depreciation and amortization expense are computed on the straight-line method over the asset’s estimated useful life. The Company considers the period of future benefit of an asset to determine its appropriate useful life and anticipates the estimated useful lives of assets by class to be generally as follows:
| Buildings | 30 – 40 years |
| Building improvements | 5 – 15 years |
| Land improvements | 5 – 15 years |
| Furniture, fixtures and equipment | 3 – 7 years |
| In-place leases | 6 months |
Impairment of Real Estate Assets
The Company continually monitors events and changes in circumstances that could indicate that the carrying amounts of the Company’s real estate and related intangible assets may not be recoverable. When indicators of potential impairment suggest that the carrying value of real estate and related intangible assets may not be recoverable, the Company assesses the recoverability of the assets by estimating whether the Company will recover the carrying value of the asset through its undiscounted future cash flows and its eventual disposition. Based on this analysis, if the Company does not believe that it will be able to recover the carrying value of the real estate and related intangible assets and liabilities, the Company will record an impairment loss to the extent that the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value of the real estate and related intangible assets. No impairment charges were recorded in 2021 or 2020.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents may include cash and short-term investments. Short-term investments are stated at cost, which approximates fair value.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash is composed of lender-imposed escrow accounts for replacement reserves, real estate taxes and insurance.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company maintains cash balances with high-quality financial institutions and periodically evaluates the creditworthiness of such institutions and believes that the Company is not exposed to significant credit risk. Cash balances may be in excess of the amounts insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
F-11
Rents and Other Receivables
The Company will periodically evaluate the collectability of amounts due from tenants and maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of tenants to make required payments under lease agreements. The Company exercises judgment in establishing these allowances and considers payment history and current credit status of tenants in developing these estimates.
Deferred Financing Fees
Deferred financing fees represent commitment fees, legal fees and other third-party costs associated with obtaining financing. Fees associated with the Company’s lines of credit are recorded within accounts receivable, prepaids and other assets on the combined balance sheet. Deferred fees associated with its lines of credit are amortized to interest expense over the terms of the financing agreements using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method.
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling interests are comprised of the Company’s joint venture partners’ interests in consolidated joint ventures, as well as interests held by LTIP unitholders and OP unitholders. The Company reports its joint venture partners’ interest in its consolidated real estate joint ventures and other subsidiary interests held by third parties as noncontrolling interests. The Company records these noncontrolling interests at their initial fair value, adjusting the basis prospectively for their share of the respective consolidated investments’ net income or loss and equity contributions and distributions. These noncontrolling interests are not redeemable by the equity holders and are presented as part of permanent equity. Income and losses are allocated to the noncontrolling interest holder pursuant to each joint venture’s operating agreement.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes rental revenue on a straight-line basis over the terms of the rental agreements and in accordance with ASC Topic 842 Leases. Rental revenue is recognized on an accrual basis and when the collectability of the amounts due from tenants is deemed probable. Rental revenue is included within rental and other property revenues on the Company’s combined statement of operations. Amounts received in advance are recorded as a liability within other accrued liabilities on the Company’s combined balance sheet.
Other property revenues are recognized in the period earned.
Reportable Segment
The Company’s current business consists of investing in and operating residential rental properties. Substantially all its consolidated net income (loss) is from investments in residential real estate properties that the Company owns through co-investment ventures or invests in through real estate loans. The Company evaluates operating performance on an individual property investment level and based on the properties’ similar economic characteristics. The Company views its real estate assets as one reportable segment, and, accordingly, aggregates its properties into one reportable segment.
Lessor Accounting
The Company’s current portfolio generates rental revenue by leasing residential homes. As lease revenues for residential homes fall under the scope of ASC Topic 842, such lease revenues are classified as operating leases with straight-line recognition over the terms of the relevant lease agreement and inclusion within rental revenue. Resident leases are generally for one-year or month-to-month terms and are renewable by mutual agreement between the Company and the resident. Non-lease components of the Company’s leases are combined with the related lease component and accounted for as a single lease component under ASC Topic 842. The balances of net real estate investments and related depreciation on the Company’s combined financial statements relate to assets for which the Company is the lessor.
F-12
Lessee Accounting
The Company determines whether an arrangement is a lease at inception. The Company determined that the lessee operating lease commitments have no material impact on its combined financial statements with the adoption of ASC Topic 842. The Company will continue to assess any modification of existing lease agreements and execution of any new lease agreements for the potential requirement of recording a right-of-use asset or liability in the future.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU No. 2021-01 “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848)” (“ASU 2021-01”). The amendments in ASU 2021-01 permit entities to elect certain optional expedients in connection with reference rate reform activities and their impact on debt, contract modifications and derivative instruments as it is expected the global market will transition from LIBOR and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. The amendments in ASU 2021-01 are effective immediately and may be elected over time as reference rate reform activities occur through December 31, 2022. The Company will continue to evaluate the impact of the guidance and may apply elections as applicable as changes in the market occur.
Current Expected Credit Losses (“CECL”)
The Company estimates provision for credit losses on its loans (notes receivable) and preferred equity investments under CECL. This method is based on expected credit losses for the life of the investment as of each balance sheet date. The method for calculating the estimate of expected credit loss takes into account historical experience and current conditions for similar loans and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future.
The Company estimates its provision for credit losses using a collective (pool) approach for investments with similar risk characteristics, such as collateral and duration of investment. In measuring the CECL provision for investments that share similar characteristics, the Company applies a default rate to the investments for the remaining loan or preferred equity investment hold period. As the Company does not have a significant historical population of loss data on its loan and preferred equity investments, the Company’s default rate utilized for CECL is based on an external historical loss rate for commercial real estate loans.
In addition to analyzing investments as a pool, the Company performs an individual investment assessment of expected credit losses. If it is determined that the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, or a foreclosure is probable, or the Company expects repayment through the sale of the collateral, the Company calculates expected credit losses based on the value of the underlying collateral as of the reporting date. During this review process, if the Company determines that it is probable that it will not be able to collect all amounts due for both principal and interest according to the contractual terms of an investment, that loan or preferred equity investment is not considered fully recoverable and a provision for credit loss is recorded.
In estimating the value of the underlying collateral when determining if a loan or preferred equity investment is fully recoverable, the Company evaluates estimated future cash flows to be generated from the collateral underlying the investment. The inputs and assumptions utilized to estimate the future cash flows of the underlying collateral are based upon the Company’s evaluation of the operating results, economy, market trends, and other factors, including judgments regarding costs to complete any construction activities, lease-up and occupancy rates, rental rates, and capitalization rates utilized to estimate the projected cash flows at the disposition. The Company may also obtain a third-party valuation which may value the collateral through an “as-is” or “stabilized value” methodology. If upon completion of the valuation the fair value of the underlying collateral securing the investment is less than the net carrying value, the Company records a provision for credit loss on that loan or preferred equity investment. As the investment no longer displays the characteristics that are similar to those of the pool of loans or preferred equity investments, the investment is removed from the CECL collective (pool) analysis described above. Refer to Note 5 and Note 6 for further information regarding CECL and the Company’s provision for credit losses on its pool of investments.
F-13
Note 3 – Investments in Real Estate
As of December 31, 2021, the Company held twenty-seven real estate investments, consisting of nineteen consolidated operating investments and eight investments held through preferred equity and loan investments. The following tables provide summary information regarding the Company’s consolidated operating investments and preferred equity and loan investments.
Consolidated Operating Investments
| Name | Market | Number of Units | Average Year Built | Ownership Interest | ||||||||||
| Golden Pacific | KS / MO | 7 | 1977 | 97 | % | |||||||||
| ILE | TX / SE US | 279 | 1990 | 95 | % | |||||||||
| Navigator Villas | Pasco, WA | 176 | 2013 | 90 | % | |||||||||
| Peak | ||||||||||||||
| Axelrod | Garland, TX | 22 | 1959 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| DFW 189 | Dallas-Fort Worth, TX | 189 | 1962 | 56 | % | |||||||||
| Granbury | Granbury, TX | 36 | 2020-2021 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Indy | Indianapolis, IN | 44 | 1958 | 60 | % | |||||||||
| Lubbock | Lubbock, TX | 60 | 1955 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Lubbock 2.0 | Lubbock, TX | 75 | 1972 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Lubbock 3.0 | Lubbock, TX | 45 | 1945 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Lynnwood | Lubbock, TX | 20 | 2005 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Lynnwood 2.0 | Lubbock, TX | 20 | 2003 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Springfield | Springfield, MO | 290 | 2004 | 60 | % | |||||||||
| Springtown | Springtown, TX | 70 | 1991 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Springtown 2.0 | Springtown, TX | 14 | 2018 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Texarkana | Texarkana, TX | 29 | 1967 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Texas Portfolio 183 | Various / TX | 183 | 1975 | 80 | % | |||||||||
| Wayford at Concord | Concord, NC | 150 | 2019 | 83 | % | |||||||||
| Yauger Park Villas | Olympia, WA | 80 | 2010 | 95 | % | |||||||||
| Total Units | 1,789 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation expense was $3.6 million and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Intangibles related to the Company’s consolidated investments in real estate consist of the value of in-place leases. In-place leases are amortized over the remaining term of the in-place leases, which is approximately six months. Amortization expense related to in-place leases was $2.1 million and $0.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
The Company’s real estate assets are leased to tenants under operating leases for which the terms and expirations vary. The leases may have provisions to extend the lease agreements, options for early termination after paying a specified penalty and other terms and conditions as negotiated. The Company retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the consolidated real estate assets leased to tenants. Generally, upon the execution of a lease, the Company requires security deposits from tenants in the form of a cash deposit. Amounts required as a security deposit vary depending upon the terms of the respective leases and the creditworthiness of the tenant, but generally are not individually significant amounts. Therefore, exposure to credit risk exists to the extent that a receivable from a tenant exceeds the amount of their security deposit. Security deposits received in cash related to tenant leases are included within other accrued liabilities in the accompanying combined balance sheet and totaled $1.5 million and $0.1 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, for the Company’s consolidated real estate investments. No individual tenant represents over 10% of the Company’s annualized base rent for the consolidated real estate investments.
F-14
Preferred Equity and Loan Investments
| Development Investment Name (1) | Location / Market | Actual / Planned Number of Units |
Actual / Estimated Initial Occupancy |
Actual / Estimated Construction Completion | ||||||
| The Hartley at Blue Hill, formerly The Park at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | 414 | 1Q 2022 | 1Q 2023 | ||||||
| Willow Park | Willow Park, TX | 46 | 2Q 2022 | 4Q 2022 | ||||||
| The Woods at Forest Hill | Forest Hill, TX | 76 | 1Q 2023 | 3Q 2023 | ||||||
| The Cottages at Myrtle Beach | Myrtle Beach, SC | 294 | 1Q 2023 | 4Q 2023 | ||||||
| The Cottages at Warner Robins | Warner Robins, GA | 251 | 3Q 2023 | 4Q 2023 | ||||||
| The Cottages of Port St. Lucie | Port St. Lucie, FL | 286 | 1Q 2023 | 4Q 2023 | ||||||
| Wayford at Innovation Park | Charlotte, NC | 210 | 3Q 2023 | 3Q 2024 | ||||||
| Total Development Units | 1,577 | |||||||||
| Operating Investment Name (1) | Location / Market | Number of Units | ||||||||
| Peak Housing (2) | IN / MO / TX | 474 | ||||||||
| Total Operating Units | 474 | |||||||||
| Total Units | 2,051 | |||||||||
| (1) | Investments in which the Company has a loan or preferred equity investment. Operating investments represent stabilized operating investments. Refer to Note 5 and Note 6 for further information. |
| (2) | Peak Housing consists of the Company’s preferred equity investments in a private single-family home REIT (refer to Note 6 for further information). Unit count excludes units in consolidated operating properties. |
Note 4 – Acquisition of Real Estate
The following describes the Company’s significant acquisition activity and related financing during the year ended December 31, 2021 (dollars in thousands). There were no acquisitions in 2020.
| Name | Location / Market | Date | Ownership Interest | Purchase Price | Debt | |||||||||||||
| Yauger Park Villas | Olympia, WA | April 14, 2021 | 95 | % | $ | 24,500 | $ | 15,077 | (1) | |||||||||
| Wayford at Concord | Concord, NC | June 4, 2021 | 83 | % | 44,438 | — | (2) | |||||||||||
| Indy | Indianapolis, IN | August 12, 2021 | 60 | % | 3,785 | 2,650 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Springfield | Springfield, MO | August 18, 2021 | 60 | % | 49,000 | 35,525 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Springtown | Springtown, TX | September 15, 2021 | 80 | % | 9,350 | 6,545 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Texarkana | Texarkana, TX | September 21, 2021 | 80 | % | 3,100 | 2,170 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Lubbock | Lubbock, TX | September 24, 2021 | 80 | % | 5,600 | 3,920 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Granbury | Granbury, TX | September 30, 2021 | 80 | % | 8,100 | 5,670 | (3) | |||||||||||
| ILE | TX / SE US | October 4, 2021 | 95 | % | 57,139 | 26,839 | (4) | |||||||||||
| Axelrod | Garland, TX | October 5, 2021 | 80 | % | 4,133 | 2,893 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Springtown 2.0 | Springtown, TX | October 26, 2021 | 80 | % | 2,985 | 2,090 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Lubbock 2.0 | Lubbock, TX | October 28, 2021 | 80 | % | 9,275 | 6,510 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Lynnwood | Lubbock, TX | November 16, 2021 | 80 | % | 2,448 | 1,714 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Golden Pacific | KS / MO | November 23, 2021 | 97 | % | 1,213 | — | (2) | |||||||||||
| Lynnwood 2.0 | Lubbock, TX | December 1, 2021 | 80 | % | 2,490 | 1,743 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Lubbock 3.0 | Lubbock, TX | December 8, 2021 | 80 | % | 4,574 | 3,202 | (3) | |||||||||||
| Texas Portfolio 183 | Various / TX | December 22, 2021 | 80 | % | 28,290 | 19,803 | (3) | |||||||||||
| DFW 189 | Dallas-Fort Worth | December 29, 2021 | 56 | % | 27,670 | 19,950 | (3) | |||||||||||
| (1) | Mortgage balance includes a $10.5 million senior loan assumption and a $4.6 million supplemental loan assumption secured by the Yauger Park Villas property |
| (2) | Purchase price was funded in full by the Company and its unaffiliated joint venture partner upon acquisition. |
| (3) | As part of the acquisition, the Company provided a mortgage or mezzanine loan to the consolidated portfolio owner in the full amount shown. The loan is eliminated in the Company's consolidated financial statements. Refer to the Peak Housing Financing disclosure in Note 6 for further information. |
| (4) | The amount represents the aggregate debt held through five separate credit agreements. Refer to Note 8 for further information. |
F-15
Purchase Price Allocation
The real estate acquisitions above have been accounted for as asset acquisitions. The purchase prices were allocated to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their estimated fair values at the dates of acquisition.
The following table summarizes the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date for acquisitions made during the year ended December 31, 2021 (amounts in thousands):
| Purchase Price Allocation | ||||
| Land | $ | 39,961 | ||
| Building | 237,751 | |||
| Building improvements | 1,993 | |||
| Land improvements | 10,160 | |||
| Furniture and fixtures | 900 | |||
| In-place leases | 4,616 | |||
| Total assets acquired | $ | 295,381 | ||
| Mortgages assumed | $ | 39,343 | ||
| Fair value adjustments | 1,158 | |||
| Total liabilities assumed | $ | 40,501 | ||
Note 5 – Notes and Interest Receivable
The Hartley at Blue Hill Financing, formerly The Park at Chapel Hill
On November 1, 2019, the Company entered into an agreement to provide a mezzanine loan (the “Hartley Mezz Loan” formerly the “Chapel Hill Mezz Loan”) in an amount up to $40.0 million to BR Chapel Hill JV, LLC (“BR Chapel Hill JV”), of which $29.5 million was funded upon execution of the agreement. BR Chapel Hill JV owns a 100% interest in BR Chapel Hill, LLC (“BR Chapel Hill”) and is a joint venture with a related party. The Hartley Mezz Loan bore interest at a fixed rate of 11.0% per annum with regular monthly payments being interest-only during the initial term. The Hartley Mezz Loan matures on the earliest to occur of: (i) the latest to occur of (a) March 31, 2024, and (b) the applicable maturity date under any extension granted under any construction financing, (ii) the date of sale or transfer of property, or (iii) such earlier date, by declaration of acceleration or otherwise, on which the final payment of principal becomes due. The Hartley Mezz Loan is secured by The Hartley at Blue Hill property and can be prepaid without penalty.
In conjunction with the Hartley Mezz Loan, the Company provided a $5.0 million senior loan to BR Chapel Hill. The senior loan is secured by BR Chapel Hill’s fee simple interest in The Hartley at Blue Hill property. The senior loan matures on March 31, 2024, and bears interest at a fixed rate of 10.0% per annum. Regular monthly payments are interest-only during the initial term. The senior loan can be prepaid without penalty. As of December 31, 2021, the senior loan remains outstanding in full.
F-16
On March 31, 2020, the Company received a paydown of $21.0 million on the Hartley Mezz Loan, reducing the outstanding principal balance to $8.5 million. On May 9, 2020, at the borrower’s request, the Company amended the Hartley Mezz Loan agreement to permit the Hartley Mezz Loan borrower to re-borrow $2.0 million. The Company funded the full $2.0 million during the second quarter 2020 to the Hartley Mezz Loan borrower, increasing the outstanding Hartley Mezz Loan balance to $10.5 million.
On August 18, 2020, the Company entered into an amended and restated mezzanine loan agreement (the “Amended Hartley Mezz Loan.” formerly the “Amended Chapel Hill Mezz Loan”) with BR Chapel Hill JV. As part of the Amended Hartley Mezz Loan, (i) the Company’s maximum loan commitment was adjusted from $40.0 million to $31.0 million, all of which had been funded as of December 31, 2021, and included all previously advanced amounts outstanding, and (ii) the interest rate on the loan was increased to 11.75% per annum from the previous rate of 11% per annum, with 5.25% paid current and 6.5% accrued. The loan maturity events and the ability of the loan to be prepaid without penalty did not change from the previous loan. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company earned interest income of $4.1 million and $3.1 million, respectively, on The Hartley at Blue Hill mezzanine and senior loans. The Company’s loan and accrued interest receivable on The Hartley at Blue Hill investment was $38.9 million and $36.9 million as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Hartley at Blue Hill property is under development and had not commenced lease-up as of December 31, 2021.
Provision for Credit Losses
As of December 31, 2021, the Company’s provision for credit loss on The Hartley at Blue Hill loan investment was $0.06 million on a carrying amount of $38.9 million. Changes in the provision for credit loss on The Hartley at Blue Hill mezzanine loan investment for the year ended December 31, 2021, is summarized in the table below (amounts in thousands):
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Provision for credit loss, beginning of year | $ | 73 | $ | — | ||||
| Provision for credit loss on The Hartley at Blue Hill | (14 | ) | 73 | |||||
| Provision for credit loss, end of year | $ | 59 | $ | 73 | ||||
Note 6 – Preferred Equity Investment
The carrying amount of the Company’s preferred equity investments and investments in unconsolidated real estate joint ventures as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 is summarized in the table below (amounts in thousands):
| Property | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||
| Peak Housing | $ | 20,318 | $ | — | ||||
| The Cottages at Myrtle Beach | 9,034 | — | ||||||
| The Cottages of Port St. Lucie | 7,260 | — | ||||||
| The Woods at Forest Hill | 442 | — | ||||||
| Wayford at Concord (1) | — | 6,500 | ||||||
| Willow Park | 2,540 | — | ||||||
| Total | $ | 39,594 | $ | 6,500 | ||||
| Provision for credit losses | (73 | ) | (12 | ) | ||||
| Total, net | $ | 39,521 | $ | 6,488 | ||||
| (1) | On June 4, 2021, the Company’s preferred equity investment in Wayford at Concord was redeemed. Refer to the Wayford at Concord Interests disclosure below for further information. |
F-17
Provision for Credit Losses
As of December 31, 2021, the Company’s provision for credit losses on its preferred equity investments was $0.07 million on a carrying amount of $39.6 million of these investments. The provision for credit losses of the Company’s preferred equity investments for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 are summarized in the table below (amounts in thousands):
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Provision for credit loss, beginning of year | $ | 12 | $ | — | ||||
| Provision for credit loss on pool of assets | 61 | 12 | ||||||
| Provision for credit loss, end of year | $ | 73 | $ | 12 | ||||
As of December 31, 2021, the Company, through wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Operating Partnership, had outstanding equity investments in five joint ventures. These preferred equity investments are classified as held to maturity debt securities as the Company has the intention and ability to hold the investments to maturity. The Company earns a fixed return on these investments which is included within preferred returns on unconsolidated real estate joint ventures in its consolidated statements of operations.
The preferred returns on the Company’s unconsolidated real estate joint ventures for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 is summarized below (amounts in thousands):
| Property | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||
| Peak Housing | $ | 1,030 | $ | — | ||||
| The Cottages at Myrtle Beach | 300 | — | ||||||
| The Cottages of Port St. Lucie | 227 | — | ||||||
| The Woods at Forest Hill | 2 | — | ||||||
| Wayford at Concord (1) | 364 | 839 | ||||||
| Willow Park | 51 | — | ||||||
| Total preferred returns on unconsolidated joint ventures | $ | 1,974 | $ | 839 | ||||
F-18
Peak Housing Interests
On April 12, 2021, the Company made a $10.7 million preferred equity investment in the Peak REIT OP, a private single family home REIT, for a portfolio of 474 single-family residential homes located throughout Texas. During the third and fourth quarters 2021, the Company made additional preferred equity investments totaling $9.6 million in the Peak REIT OP which is cross-collateralized by an additional fourteen portfolios representing an aggregate of 1,097 single-family residential homes.
Of the Company’s total $20.3 million preferred equity investment in the Peak REIT OP, the Company earns a 7.0% current return and a 3.0% accrued return on $16.0 million of its investment, for a total preferred return of 10.0% per annum. On its remaining $4.3 million investment, the Company earns a 4.0% current return and a 4.0% accrued return, for a total preferred return of 8.0% per annum. The current returns shall be paid monthly to the extent the property generates cash flow in excess of operating costs, and any amount of the current returns not paid monthly shall be accrued at a rate of 15% per annum. The homes in Peak Housing are subject to individual mortgage debt in the aggregate amount of $146.6 million. The Peak REIT OP is required to redeem the Company’s preferred equity interest plus any accrued preferred return in each property, on a pro rata basis, on the earlier date of: (i) the third anniversary on which the Company made its preferred equity investment, with the option for two (2) one-year extensions, subject to certain conditions, (ii) the sale of a property, (iii) the refinancing of the loan related to a property, or (iv) the maturity date of a property loan.
The Cottages at Myrtle Beach Interests
On September 9, 2021, the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with an unaffiliated third party (the “Cottages MB JV”) to develop approximately 294-build for rent, single-family residential homes in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The Company made a commitment to invest $17.9 million of preferred equity interests in the Cottages MB JV, of which $9.0 million had been funded as of December 31, 2021. The Company will earn a 14.5% per annum accrued return on outstanding capital contributions with payments to be remitted when the properties generate cash flow in excess of operating costs and/or there are available net proceeds from financing, refinancing or sale of properties. The Cottages MB JV is required to redeem the Company’s preferred equity interests plus any accrued preferred return on the date the construction loan (referred to below) is due and payable or earlier upon the occurrence of certain events.
F-19
In conjunction with The Cottages at Myrtle Beach investment, The Cottages at Myrtle Beach property owner, which is owned by an entity in which the Company has an equity interest, entered into a $40.2 million construction loan, of which none was outstanding as of December 31, 2021. The loan matures on March 9, 2025 and is secured by the fee simple interest in The Cottages at Myrtle Beach property. The loan contains two (2) one-year extension options, subject to certain conditions, and can be prepaid without penalty. The loan bears interest on the amount drawn at the greater of 3.10% or one-month LIBOR plus 2.60% with interest-only monthly payments through the initial term of the loan.
The Cottages at Warner Robins Interests
On December 8, 2021, the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with an unaffiliated third party (the “Cottages WR JV”) to develop approximately 251-build for rent, single-family residential homes in Warner Robins, Georgia. The Company made a commitment to invest $13.3 million of preferred equity interests in the Cottages WR JV, of which none had been funded as of December 31, 2021. The Company will earn a 14.5% per annum accrued return on outstanding capital contributions with payments to be remitted when the properties generate cash flow in excess of operating costs and/or there are available net proceeds from financing, refinancing or sale of properties. The Cottages WR JV is required to redeem the Company’s preferred equity interests plus any accrued preferred return on the date the construction loan (referred to below) is due and payable or earlier upon the occurrence of certain events.
In conjunction with The Cottages at Warner Robins investment, The Cottages at Warner Robins property owner, which is owned by an entity in which the Company has an equity interest, entered into a $34.5 million construction loan, of which none was outstanding as of December 31, 2021. The loan matures on April 5, 2025 and is secured by the fee simple interest in The Cottages at Warner Robins property. The loan contains an extension option to December 5, 2026, subject to certain conditions, and can be prepaid without penalty. The loan bears interest on the amount drawn at one-month Term SOFR plus 3.10% with interest-only monthly payments through the initial term of the loan.
The Cottages of Port St. Lucie Interests
On August 26, 2021, the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with an unaffiliated third party (the “Cottages St. Lucie JV”) to develop approximately 286-build for rent, single-family residential homes in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The Company made a commitment to invest $18.8 million of preferred equity interests in the Cottages St. Lucie JV, of which $7.3 million had been funded as of December 31, 2021. The Company will earn a 14.5% per annum accrued return on outstanding capital contributions with payments to be remitted when the properties generate cash flow in excess of operating costs and/or there are available net proceeds from financing, refinancing or sale of properties. The Cottages St. Lucie JV is required to redeem the Company’s preferred equity interests plus any accrued preferred return on the date the construction loan (referred to below) is due and payable or earlier upon the occurrence of certain events.
In conjunction with The Cottages of Port St. Lucie investment, The Cottages of Port St. Lucie property owner, which is owned by an entity in which the Company has an equity interest, entered into a $45.2 million construction loan, of which none was outstanding as of December 31, 2021. The loan matures on August 26, 2024 and is secured by the fee simple interest in The Cottages of Port St. Lucie property. The loan contains two (2) one-year extension options, subject to certain conditions, and can be prepaid without penalty. The loan bears interest on the amount drawn at the greater of 3.50% or one-month LIBOR plus 2.75% with interest-only monthly payments through the initial term of the loan.
F-20
The Woods at Forest Hill Interests
On December 20, 2021, the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with Peak Housing REIT (the “Woods JV”) to develop approximately 76-build for rent, single-family residential homes in Forest Hill, Texas. The Company made a commitment to invest $3.3 million of preferred equity interests in the Woods JV, of which $0.4 million had been funded as of December 31, 2021. The Company will earn a 13% per annum accrued return on outstanding capital contributions with payments to be remitted when the properties generate cash flow in excess of operating costs and/or there are available net proceeds from financing, refinancing or sale of properties. The Woods JV is required to redeem the Company’s preferred equity interests plus any accrued preferred return on the date the construction loan (referred to below) is due and payable or earlier upon the occurrence of certain events.
In conjunction with The Woods at Forest Hill development, The Woods at Forest Hill property owner, which is owned by an entity in which the Company has an equity interest, entered into an $8.3 million construction loan, of which none was outstanding as of December 31, 2021. The loan matures on December 20, 2024 and is secured by the fee simple interest in The Woods at Forest Hill property. The loan contains two (2) one-year extension options, subject to certain conditions, and can be prepaid subject to a make whole premium. The loan bears interest on the amount drawn at the greater of 4.75% or the prime rate plus 1.50% with interest-only monthly payments through July 2024 and future monthly payments based on twenty-five-year amortization.
Wayford at Concord Interests
The Company made a $6.5 million preferred equity investment in a joint venture (the “Wayford JV”) with an unaffiliated third party which developed 150-build for rent, single-family residential homes in Concord, North Carolina known as Wayford at Concord. The Company earned a 9.0% current return and a 4.0% accrued return for a total preferred return of 13.0% per annum. The Wayford JV is required to redeem the Company’s preferred membership interest plus any accrued but unpaid preferred return on November 9, 2023 or earlier upon the occurrence of certain events.
On June 4, 2021, the Company, along with an unaffiliated third party, purchased the interests in the Wayford at Concord property, the underlying asset of the Wayford JV, from the Company’s Wayford JV partner for $44.4 million. The Company acquired an 83% interest in Wayford at Concord. In conjunction with the sale, the Company’s preferred equity investment was redeemed by the Wayford JV for $7.0 million, which included its original preferred investment of $6.5 million and accrued preferred return of $0.5 million. Upon the redemption of its preferred investment and the purchase of Wayford at Concord, the Company began consolidating the property’s statement of operations and balance sheet.
Wayford at Innovation Park Interests
On June 17, 2021, the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with an unaffiliated third party (the “Wayford IP JV”) to develop an approximately 210-build for rent, single-family residential homes located in Charlotte, North Carolina to be known as Wayford at Innovation Park. The Company has made a commitment to invest in $13.4 million of preferred equity interests in the Wayford IP JV, of which none had been funded as of December 31, 2021. The Company will begin funding capital once the unaffiliated third party has contributed its full common equity commitment. The Company will earn a 12.5% per annum accrued return on outstanding capital contributions with payments to be remitted when the property generates cash flow in excess of operating costs and/or there are available net proceeds from financing, refinancing or sale of the property. The Wayford IP JV is required to redeem the Company’s preferred equity interest plus any accrued preferred return on June 17, 2026 or earlier upon the occurrence of certain events.
In conjunction with the Wayford at Innovation Park development, the Wayford at Innovation Park property owner, which is owned by an entity in which the Company has an equity interest, entered into a $39.6 million construction loan, of which none was outstanding as of December 31, 2021. The loan matures on October 15, 2026, can be prepaid without penalty, and is secured by the fee simple interest in the Wayford at Innovation Park property. The loan bears interest on the amount drawn at the greater of 3.50% or one-month LIBOR plus 2.25% with interest-only monthly payments through October 2024 and future monthly payments based on thirty-year amortization.
F-21
Willow Park Interests
On June 17, 2021, the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with Peak Housing REIT (the “Willow Park JV”) to develop approximately 46-build for rent, single-family residential homes in Willow Park, Texas. The Company made a commitment to invest $3.8 million of preferred equity interests in the Willow Park JV, of which $2.5 million had been funded as of December 31, 2021. The Company will earn a 13.0% per annum accrued return on outstanding capital contributions with payments to be remitted when the properties generate cash flow in excess of operating costs and/or there are available net proceeds from financing, refinancing or sale of properties. The Willow Park JV is required to redeem the Company’s preferred equity interests plus any accrued preferred return on the date the construction loan (referred to below) is due and payable or earlier upon the occurrence of certain events.
In conjunction with the Willow Park development, the Willow Park property owner, which is owned by an entity in which the Company has an equity interest, entered into an $8.8 million construction loan, of which $1.7 million was outstanding as of December 31, 2021. The loan matures on August 5, 2024 and is secured by the fee simple interest in the Willow Park property. The loan contains two (2) one-year extension options, subject to certain conditions, and can be prepaid subject to a make whole premium. The loan bears interest on the amount drawn at the greater of 4.50% or the prime rate plus 1.25% with interest-only monthly payments through February 2024 and future monthly payments based on twenty-five-year amortization.
Note 7 – Revolving Credit Facility
The outstanding balances on the revolving credit facilities as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 are as follows (amounts in thousands):
Revolving Credit Facilities | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||
| Amended Senior Credit Facility | $ | — | $ | 33,000 | ||||
| Amended Junior Credit Facility | — | — | ||||||
| Total | $ | — | $ | 33,000 | ||||
Amended Senior Credit Facility
On March 6, 2020, the Company entered into the Amended Senior Credit Facility. The Amended Senior Credit Facility provides for a revolving loan with an initial commitment amount of $100 million, which commitment contains an accordion feature to a maximum total commitment of up to $350 million. Borrowings under the Amended Senior Credit Facility bear interest, at the Company’s option, at LIBOR plus 1.30% to 1.65% or the base rate plus 0.30% to 0.65%, depending on the Company’s leverage ratio. The Company pays an unused fee at an annual rate of 0.15% to 0.20% of the unused portion of the Amended Senior Credit Facility, depending on the borrowings outstanding. The Amended Senior Credit Facility matures on March 6, 2023 and contains two one-year extension options, subject to certain conditions. The Amended Senior Credit Facility contains certain financial and operating covenants, including a maximum leverage ratio, minimum liquidity, minimum debt service coverage ratio and minimum tangible net worth. At December 31, 2021, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the Amended Senior Credit Facility. The Company has guaranteed the obligations under the Amended Senior Credit Facility and has pledged certain assets as collateral.
The Amended Senior Credit Facility provides the Company with the ability to issue up to $50 million in letters of credit. While the issuance of letters of credit does not increase the Company’s borrowings outstanding under the Amended Senior Credit Facility, it does reduce the availability of borrowings. At December 31, 2021, the Company had one outstanding letter of credit of $0.8 million.
F-22
Amended Junior Credit Facility
On September 21, 2021, the Company entered into an amended and restated Junior Credit Facility (the “Amended Junior Credit Facility”). The Amended Junior Credit Facility extended the maturity date of the credit facility to December 21, 2023 and included changes in certain financial and operating covenants. There were no other material changes in terms from the previous credit facility. The Amended Junior Credit Facility provides for a revolving loan with a maximum commitment amount of $72.5 million. Borrowings under the Amended Junior Credit Facility bear interest, at the Company’s option, at LIBOR plus 2.75% to 3.25% or the base rate plus 1.75% to 2.25%, depending on the Company’s leverage ratio. The Company pays an unused fee at an annual rate of 0.35% to 0.40% of the unused portion of the Amended Junior Credit Facility, depending on the borrowings outstanding. The Amended Junior Credit Facility contains certain financial and operating covenants, including a maximum leverage ratio, minimum liquidity, minimum debt service coverage ratio, minimum debt yield, minimum tangible net worth and minimum equity raise and collateral values. At December 31, 2021, the Company was in compliance with all covenants under the Amended Junior Credit Facility. The Company has guaranteed the obligations under the Amended Junior Credit Facility and has pledged certain assets as collateral.
The availability of borrowings under the revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2021 was approximately $143.3 million.
Deferred Financing Costs
Costs incurred in obtaining the revolving credit facilities are amortized on a straight-line basis to interest expense over the terms of the related credit facility agreements, as applicable, which approximates the effective interest method. Amortization of deferred financing costs related to the revolving credit facilities was $0.9 million and $1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Note 8 – Mortgages Payable
ILE Mortgage Payable
On October 4, 2021, the Company acquired debt held through five separate credit agreements, each of which is secured by the property. Of the $26.8 million principal balance, $7.5 million held through two credit agreements requires monthly payments of principal and interest, while the remaining principal balance of $19.3 million held through three credit agreements has monthly payments that are currently interest-only. The five credit agreements have maturity dates ranging from 2022 to 2026 and bear interest at one-month LIBOR or prime rate + margins ranging from 0.50% to 3.00%, subject to rate floors, and have current interest rates ranging from 3.50% to 4.25% with a weighted average interest rate of 3.78% as of December 31, 2021.
Navigator Villas Mortgage Payable
On December 18, 2019, the Company assumed a mortgage loan with a principal balance of $14.8 million and entered into a supplemental loan of $5.7 million with both loans secured by Navigator Villas. The mortgage loan and supplemental loan bear interest at fixed rates of 4.31% and 5.23%, respectively. The loans mature on June 1, 2028, and require interest-only payments through June 2021 with future monthly payments based on thirty-year amortization. After November 30, 2027, each loan may be prepaid without penalty or yield maintenance.
Yauger Park Villas Mortgage Payable
On April 14, 2021, the Company assumed a mortgage loan with a principal balance of $10.5 million and entered into a supplemental loan of $4.6 million with both loans secured by Yauger Park Villas. The mortgage loan and supplemental loan bear interest at fixed rates of 4.81% and 4.96%, respectively. The loans mature on April 1, 2026, and require fixed monthly payments based on thirty-year amortization. After December 30, 2025, each loan may be prepaid without penalty or yield maintenance.
Deferred Financing Costs
Costs incurred in obtaining long-term financing are amortized on a straight-line basis to interest expense over the terms of the related financing agreements, as applicable, which approximates the effective interest method. Amortization of deferred financing costs related to long-term financing was $0.1 million and $0.04 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
F-23
Fair Value Adjustments of Debt
The Company records a fair value adjustment based upon the fair value of the loans on the date they were assumed in conjunction with acquisitions. The fair value adjustments are being amortized to interest expense over the remaining life of the loans. Amortization of fair value adjustments was $0.3 million and $0.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Debt Maturities
As of December 31, 2021, contractual principal payments for the five subsequent years and thereafter are as follows (amounts in thousands):
| Purchase Price Allocation | ||||
| 2022 | $ | 4,949 | ||
| 2023 | 1,769 | |||
| 2024 | 3,468 | |||
| 2025 | 1,848 | |||
| 2026 | 31,478 | |||
| Thereafter | 18,595 | |||
| $ | 62,107 | |||
| Add: Unamortized fair value debt adjustment | 1,555 | |||
| Subtract: Deferred financing costs, net | (655 | ) | ||
| Total | $ | 63,007 | ||
The net book value of real estate assets providing collateral for these above borrowings, including the Amended Senior Credit Facility and Amended Junior Credit Facility, was $318 million as of December 31, 2021.
The mortgage loans encumbering the Company’s property are nonrecourse, subject to certain exceptions for which the Company would be liable for any resulting losses incurred by the lender. These exceptions generally include fraud or a material misrepresentation, misstatement or omission by the borrower, intentional or grossly negligent conduct by the borrower that harms the property or results in a loss to the lender, filing of a bankruptcy petition by the borrower, either directly or indirectly, and certain environmental liabilities. In addition, upon the occurrence of certain events, such as fraud or filing of a bankruptcy petition by the borrower, the Company or our joint ventures would be liable for the entire outstanding balance of the loans, all interest accrued thereon and certain other costs, including penalties and expenses. The mortgage loans have a period where a prepayment fee or yield maintenance is required.
Note 9 – Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value Measurements
For financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis, fair value is the price the Company would expect to receive to sell an asset, or pay to transfer a liability, in an orderly transaction with a market participant at the measurement date under current market conditions. In the absence of such data, fair value is estimated using internal information consistent with what market participants would use in a hypothetical transaction.
F-24
In determining fair value, observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect the Company’s market assumptions; preference is given to observable inputs. In accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and as defined in ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement,” these two types of inputs create the following fair value hierarchy:
| · | Level 1: Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets |
| · | Level 2: Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable |
| · | Level 3: Significant inputs to the valuation model are unobservable |
If the inputs used to measure the fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the fair value is determined based upon the lowest-level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Whenever possible, the Company uses quoted market prices to determine fair value. In the absence of quoted market prices, the Company uses independent sources and data to determine fair value.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, due to and due from affiliates, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, and distributions payable approximate their fair value based on their highly liquid nature and/or short-term maturities. The carrying values of notes receivable approximate fair value because stated interest rate terms are consistent with interest rate terms on new deals with similar leverage and risk profiles. The fair values of notes receivable are classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to the significant unobservable inputs that are utilized in their respective valuations.
Fair Value of Debt
As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, based on the discounted amount of future cash flows using rates currently available to the Company for similar liabilities, the fair value of the Company’s mortgages payable is estimated at $64.8 million and $22.6 million compared to the carrying amounts, before adjustments for deferred financing costs, net, of $63.7 million and $21.2 million. The fair value of mortgages payable is estimated based on the Company’s current interest rates (Level 3 inputs of the fair value hierarchy) for similar types of borrowing arrangements.
Note 10 – Related Party Transactions
Administrative Services Agreement
In October 2017, Bluerock Residential entered into an Administrative Services Agreement (the “Administrative Services Agreement”) with Bluerock Real Estate, LLC and its affiliate, Bluerock Real Estate Holdings, LLC (together “BRE”). Pursuant to the Administrative Services Agreement, BRE provides Bluerock Residential with certain human resources, investor relations, marketing, legal and other administrative services (the “Services”). The Services are provided on an at-cost basis, generally allocated based on the use of such Services for the benefit of the business, and are invoiced on a quarterly basis. In addition, the Administrative Services Agreement permits certain employees to provide or cause to be provided services to BRE, on an at-cost basis, generally allocated based on the use of such services for the benefit of the business of BRE, and otherwise subject to the terms of the Services provided by BRE to Bluerock Residential under the Administrative Services Agreement. Payment by Bluerock Residential of invoices and other amounts payable under the Administrative Services Agreement will be made in cash or, at the sole discretion of the board of directors, generally in the form of LTIP units.
Bluerock Residential has the right to renew the Administrative Services Agreement for successive one-year terms upon sixty (60) days written notice prior to expiration. Bluerock Residential renewed the Administrative Services Agreement for a one-year term in 2020, and on August 4, 2021, Bluerock Residential delivered written notice to BRE of the Company’s intention to renew the Administrative Services Agreement for an additional one-year term, to expire on October 31, 2022. The Administrative Services Agreement will automatically terminate (i) upon termination by Bluerock Residential of all Services, or (ii) in the event of nonrenewal by Bluerock Residential. Pursuant to the Administrative Services Agreement, BRE is responsible for the payment of all employee benefits and any other direct and indirect compensation for the employees of BRE (or their affiliates or permitted subcontractors) assigned to perform the Services, as well as such employees’ workers’ compensation insurance, employment taxes, and other applicable employer liabilities relating to such employees.
F-25
All of Bluerock Residential’s executive officers and one of its directors are also executive officers, managers and/or holders of a direct or indirect controlling interest in Bluerock-affiliated entities. As a result, they owe fiduciary duties to each of these entities, their members, limited partners and investors, which fiduciary duties may from time to time conflict with the fiduciary duties that they owe to the Company.
Bluerock Residential and BRE also entered into a Leasehold Cost-Sharing Agreement (the “Leasehold Cost-Sharing Agreement”) with respect to the lease for their New York headquarters (the “NY Lease”) to provide for the allocation and sharing between BRE and Bluerock Residential of the costs thereunder, including costs associated with tenant improvements. The NY Lease permits Bluerock Residential and certain of its respective subsidiaries and/or affiliates to share occupancy of the New York headquarters with BRE. Under the NY Lease, the Company issued a $750,000 letter of credit as a security deposit, and BRE is obligated under the Leasehold Cost-Sharing Agreement to indemnify and hold the Company harmless from loss if there is a claim under such letter of credit. Payment by the Company of any amounts payable under the Leasehold Cost-Sharing Agreement to BRE will be made in cash or, in the sole discretion of the board of directors, generally in the form of LTIP units.
Recorded as part of general and administrative expenses, operating expenses paid by BRE on behalf of the Company of $0.3 million and $0.1 million were expensed during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The Company, pursuant to the terms of the Administrative Services Agreement, paid operating expenses on behalf of BRE of $0.2 million and $0.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020. Operating expense amounts were determined by applying an allocation percentage to (i) total operating expenses paid by BRE on behalf of the Company and (ii) total operating expenses paid by the Company on behalf of BRE. The allocation percentage was determined by taking the number of units carved out of the Bluerock Residential portfolio divided by Bluerock Residential’s total portfolio unit count.
Pursuant to the terms of the Administrative Services Agreement and the Leasehold Cost-Sharing Agreement, summarized below are the net related party amounts payable to BRE allocated to the Company as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 (amounts in thousands):
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Operating and direct expense reimbursements | ||||||||
| Amounts payable to BRE under the Administrative Services Agreement, net | $ | 319 | $ | 367 | ||||
| Amounts payable to BRE under the Leasehold Cost sharing agreement | 187 | 191 | ||||||
| Total | $ | 506 | $ | 558 | ||||
As of December 31, 2021 the Company had no amounts payable to or receivables from related parties other than BRE. In 2020, the Company had a $92 receivable from a related party.
Notes and Interest Receivable
At December 31, 2021, the Company provided loans to related parties in conjunction with the development of The Hartley at Blue Hill, formerly The Park at Chapel Hill. Refer to Note 5 for further information.
Note 11 – Commitments and Contingencies
The Company is subject to various legal actions and claims arising in the ordinary course of business. Although the outcome of any legal matter cannot be predicted with certainty, management does not believe that any of these legal proceedings or matters will have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position or results of operations or liquidity of the Company.
F-26
Note 12 – Subsequent Events
Sale of The Hartley at Blue Hill
The Hartley at Blue Hill property was sold on February 28, 2022, and the mezzanine loan provided by the Company was paid off for $34.4 million, which included principal repayment of $31.0 million and accrued interest of $3.4 million. The $5.0 million senior loan provided by the Company, which is secured by a parcel of land adjacent to The Hartley at Blue Hill property, remains outstanding.
Weatherford Loan Financing
On February 15, 2022, the Company provided a $9.6 million mezzanine loan (the “Weatherford Mezz Loan”) to an unaffiliated third party for land to be used in the development of 185-build for rent, single-family residential homes in Weatherford, Texas. The Weatherford Mezz Loan matures on May 16, 2022 and contains three (3) thirty-day extension options, subject to certain conditions, and can be prepaid without penalty. The Weatherford Mezz Loan bears interest at 12.0% per annum with interest-only payments during the term of the loan.
F-27
| Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc. | December 31, 2021 |
Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation
| COLUMN A | COLUMN B | COLUMN C | COLUMN D | COLUMN E | COLUMN F | COLUMN G | COLUMN H | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Life on Which | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Costs | Gross Amount at Which Carried | Depreciation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Initial Cost | Capitalized | at Close of Period | in Latest | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Subsequent | Income | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Property | Locations | Encumbrances | Land | Buildings
and Improvements | to Acquisition | Land | Buildings
and Improvements | Total | Accumulated Depreciation | Date
of Acquisition | Statement is Computed | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Real Estate Held for Investment | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Navigator Villas | WA | $ | 20,361 | $ | 2,026 | $ | 27,206 | $ | 869 | $ | 2,027 | $ | 28,074 | $ | 30,101 | $ | 2,079 | 2019 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Yauger Park Villas | WA | 14,922 | 1,322 | 24,575 | 211 | 1,322 | 24,786 | 26,108 | 683 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Wayford at Concord | NC | — | 2,933 | 40,922 | 52 | 2,933 | 40,974 | 43,907 | 784 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Indy | IN | — | 593 | 3,210 | 11 | 594 | 3,220 | 3,814 | 36 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Springfield | MO | — | 7,711 | 41,435 | 32 | 7,714 | 41,464 | 49,178 | 461 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Springtown | TX | — | 1,459 | 7,919 | 14 | 1,461 | 7,931 | 9,392 | 66 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Texarkana | TX | — | 438 | 2,681 | 8 | 439 | 2,688 | 3,127 | 22 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lubbock | TX | — | 719 | 4,892 | 26 | 721 | 4,916 | 5,637 | 41 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Granbury | TX | — | 751 | 7,497 | 7 | 751 | 7,504 | 8,255 | 62 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Axelrod | TX | — | 1,115 | 3,078 | 10 | 1,115 | 3,088 | 4,203 | 26 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ILE | TX
/ SE US | 26,824 | 11,277 | 46,999 | 852 | 11,277 | 47,851 | 59,128 | 114 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Springtown 2.0 | TX | — | 106 | 2,891 | — | 106 | 2,891 | 2,997 | 16 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lubbock 2.0 | TX | — | 718 | 8,550 | — | 718 | 8,550 | 9,268 | 47 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lynnwood | TX | — | 281 | 2,192 | — | 281 | 2,192 | 2,473 | 6 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Golden Pacific | KS
/ MO | — | 251 | 1,122 | 19 | 251 | 1,141 | 1,392 | 1 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lynnwood 2.0 | TX | — | 266 | 2,244 | — | 266 | 2,244 | 2,510 | 6 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lubbock 3.0 | TX | — | 245 | 4,382 | — | 245 | 4,382 | 4,627 | 12 | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Texas Portfolio 183 | TX | — | 4,138 | 23,764 | — | 4,138 | 23,764 | 27,902 | — | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| DFW 189 | TX | — | 5,638 | 22,416 | — | 5,638 | 22,416 | 28,054 | — | 2021 | 3 - 40 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Subtotal | $ | 62,107 | $ | 41,987 | $ | 277,975 | $ | 2,111 | $ | 41,997 | $ | 280,076 | $ | 322,073 | $ | 4,462 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Non-Real Estate assets | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| REIT Operator | MI | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 185 | $ | 790 | $ | — | $ | 975 | $ | 975 | $ | 502 | 2017 | 5 Years | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Subtotal | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 185 | $ | 790 | $ | — | $ | 975 | $ | 975 | $ | 502 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 62,107 | $ | 41,987 | $ | 278,160 | $ | 2,901 | $ | 41,997 | $ | 281,051 | $ | 323,048 | $ | 4,964 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
F-28
Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.
Notes to Schedule III - Reconciliation of Real Estate Properties
| 1. | Reconciliation of Real Estate Properties |
The following table reconciles the Real Estate Properties from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021.
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Balance at January 1 | $ | 30,399 | $ | 30,171 | ||||
| Construction and acquisition cost | 292,649 | 228 | ||||||
| Disposition of real estate | — | — | ||||||
| Balance at December 31 | $ | 323,048 | $ | 30,399 | ||||
| 2. | Reconciliation of Accumulated Depreciation |
The following table reconciles the Real Estate Properties from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021.
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Balance at January 1 | $ | 1,334 | $ | 132 | ||||
| Current year depreciation expense | 3,630 | 1,202 | ||||||
| Disposition of real estate | — | — | ||||||
| Balance at December 31 | $ | 4,964 | $ | 1,334 | ||||
F-29
Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.
Schedule IV - Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
| Description | Property Name | Location | Interest Rate | Maturity Date | Periodic Payment Terms | Prior Liens | Face Amount of Mortgages (in thousands) | Carrying Amount of Mortgages (in thousands) | Principal Amount of Mortgages Subject to Delinquent Principal or Interest | |||||||||||||||||||
| Real Estate Senior Loan on Residential Rental Community | The Hartley at Blue Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | 10.0 | % | 3/31/2024 | 10 (1) | — | $ | 5,000 | $ | 5,000 | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Real Estate Mezzanine Loan on Residential Rental Community | The Hartley at Blue Hill | Chapel Hill, NC | 11.75 | % | 3/31/2024 | 5.25 / 6.50 (2) | — | 31,000 | 31,000 | — | ||||||||||||||||||
| $ | 36,000 | $ | 36,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1) Fixed rate, interest only, 10.0% payable monthly
(2) Fixed rate, interest only, 5.25% payable monthly and 6.50% accrued
F-30
Bluerock Homes Trust, Inc.
Note to Schedule IV - Reconciliation of Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
(dollars in thousands)
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Balance at beginning of period | $ | 36,000 | $ | 34,500 | ||||
| Additions during period | ||||||||
| Purchases | — | 2,000 | ||||||
| Other (1) | — | 20,500 | ||||||
| Deductions during period | ||||||||
| Collections of principal | — | (21,000 | ) | |||||
| Balance at end of period | $ | 36,000 | $ | 36,000 | ||||
| (1) | Represents an increase to the principal due to an amended agreement on August 18, 2020. |
F-31