As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 3, 2006

File No.              

 


SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


FORM 10

GENERAL FORM FOR REGISTRATION OF SECURITIES

PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 


REALOGY CORPORATION

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

Delaware   20-4381990

(State or Other Jurisdiction

of Incorporation or Organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

One Campus Drive

Parsippany, NJ

  07054
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)   (Zip Code)

(973) 496-6700

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 


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 $.01 per share   New York Stock Exchange

Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act

None

 



INFORMATION REQUIRED IN REGISTRATION STATEMENT

CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET BETWEEN INFORMATION STATEMENT AND

ITEMS OF FORM 10

Our Information Statement is filed as Exhibit 99.1 to this Form 10. For your convenience, we have provided below a cross-reference sheet identifying where the items required by Form 10 can be found in the Information Statement.

 

Item No.

  

Caption

  

Location in Information Statement

Item 1.    Business    See “Summary,” “Risk Factors,” “The Separation,” “Capitalization,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Business” and “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions”
Item 2.    Financial Information    See “Summary,” “Capitalization,” “Selected Combined Financial Data,” “Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”
Item 3.    Properties    See “Business—Properties and Facilities”
Item 4.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management    See “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management”
Item 5.    Directors and Executive Officers    See “Management”
Item 6.    Executive Compensation    See “Management,” and “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions”
Item 7.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions    See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” “Management” and “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions”
Item 8.    Legal Proceedings    See “Business—Legal Proceedings” and “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Litigation”
Item 9.    Market Price of and Dividends on the Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Shareholder Matters    See “Summary,” “The Separation,” “Capitalization,” and “Dividend Policy”
Item 10.    Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities    Not Applicable
Item 11.    Description of Registrant’s Securities to be Registered    See “The Separation,” “Dividend Policy” and “Description of Capital Stock”
Item 12.    Indemnification of Directors and Officers    See “Management” and “Description of Capital Stock”
Item 13.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data    See “Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information” and “Index to Financial Statements” and the statements referenced therein
Item 14.    Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure    Not Applicable
Item 15.    Financial Statements and Exhibits    See “Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information” and “Index to Financial Statements” and the statements referenced therein

 

1


(a)        List of Financial Statements and Schedules

The following financial statements are included in the Information Statement and filed as part of this Registration Statement on Form 10:

 

  (1) Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information of Realogy Corporation; and

 

  (2) Combined Financial Statements, including Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

(b)        Exhibits    The following documents are filed as exhibits hereto:

 

Exhibit No.  

Exhibit Description

2.1   Form of Separation and Distribution Agreement by and among Realogy Corporation, Cendant Corporation, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation and the Travel Distribution Services company*
3.1   Form of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Realogy Corporation*
3.2   Form of Amended and Restated By-laws of Realogy Corporation*
10.1   Form of Tax Sharing Agreement among Realogy Corporation, Cendant Corporation, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation and the Travel Distribution Services company*
10.2   Form of Transition Services Agreement among Realogy Corporation, Cendant Corporation, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation and the Travel Distribution Services company*
10.3   Employment Agreement with Henry R. Silverman*
10.4   Employment Agreement with Richard A. Smith*
10.5   2006 Equity and Incentive Plan*
10.6   Employee Stock Purchase Plan*
10.7   Savings Restoration Plan*
10.8   Officer Deferred Compensation Plan*
10.9   Non-Employee Directors Deferred Compensation Plan*
10.10   Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement, dated as of January 31, 2005, of PHH Home Loans, LLC, by and between PHH Broker Partner Corporation and Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 4, 2005)
10.10(a)   Amendment Number 1 to the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement, dated as of April 2005, of PHH Home Loans, LLC, by and between PHH Broker Partner Corporation and Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc.
10.10(b)   Amendment Number 2 to the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2006, of PHH Home Loans, LLC, by and between PHH Broker Partner Corporation and Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc.
10.11   Strategic Relationship Agreement, dated as of January 31, 2005, by and among Cendant Real Estate Services Group, LLC, Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc., PHH Corporation, PHH Mortgage Corporation, PHH Broker Partner Corporation and PHH Home Loans, LLC (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 4, 2005)
10.11(a)   Amendment Number 1 to the Strategic Relationship, Agreement, dated May 2005 by and among Cendant Real Estate Services Group, LLC, Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc., PHH Corporation, PHH Mortgage Corporation, PHH Broker Partner Corporation and PHH Home Loans, LLC
10.12   Trademark License Agreement, dated as of February 17, 2004, among SPTC, Inc., Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc., Cendant Corporation and Monticello Licensee Corporation

 

2


Exhibit No.  

Exhibit Description

10.12(a)   Amendment No. 1 to Trademark License Agreement, dated May 2, 2005, by and among SPTC Delaware LLC (as assignee of SPTC, Inc.), Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc., Cendant Corporation and Sotheby’s International Realty Licensee Corporation (f/k/a Monticello Licensee Corporation)
10.12(b)   Amendment No. 2 to Trademark License Agreement, dated May 2, 2005, by and among SPTC Delaware LLC (as assignee of SPTC, Inc.), Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc., Cendant Corporation and Sotheby’s International Realty Licensee Corporation (f/k/a Monticello Licensee Corporation)
10.13   Lease, dated as of December 29, 2000, between One Campus Associates L.L.C. and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.13(a)   First Amendment of Lease, dated as of October 16, 2001, by and between One Campus Associates, L.L.C. and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.13(b)   Second Amendment to Lease, dated as of June 7, 2002, by and between One Campus Associates, L.L.C. and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.13(c)   Third Amendment to Lease, dated as of April 28, 2003, by and between DB Real Estate One Campus Drive, L.P. and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.14   Office Building Lease, dated as of August 29, 2003, between MV Plaza, Inc. and Cendant Corporation
10.15   Agreement of Lease, dated as of August 11, 1997, between MMP Realty, LLC and HFS Mobility Services, Inc.
10.15(a)   First Amendment to Agreement of Lease, dated as of November 4, 2004, by and between MMP Realty, LLC and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.15(b)   Second Amendment to Agreement of Lease, dated as of April 18, 2005, by and between MMP Realty, LLC and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.16   Lease Agreement, dated as of July 25, 2003, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Liberty Property Limited Partnership
10.17   Lease, dated as of November 19, 1997, between HFS, Incorporated and Carramerica Realty, L.P.
10.17(a)   First Amendment to Lease, dated as of January 27, 1999, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Carramerica Realty, L.P.
10.17(b)   Second Amendment of Lease, dated as of April 28, 2003, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Carr Texas OP, LP
10.17(c)   Third Amendment of Lease, dated as of January 1, 2004, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Carr Texas OP, LP
10.17(d)   Fourth Amendment of Lease, dated as of August 19, 2005, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Carr Texas OP, LP
10.18   Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of April 25, 2000 by and between Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, as originator and seller, and Apple Ridge Services Corporation as buyer (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form
8-K dated February 3, 2005)

 

3


Exhibit No.   

Exhibit Description

10.19    Transfer and Servicing Agreement, dated as of April 25, 2000, by and between Apple Ridge Services Corporation, as transferor, Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, as originator and servicer, Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, as originator and Apple Ridge Funding LLC (now known as Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC), as transferee, and Bank One, National Association (now JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association), as indenture trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.20    Performance Guaranty dated as of April 25, 2000 executed by PHH Corporation in favor of Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation and Apple Ridge Funding LLC (now known as Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.21    Assignment and Assumption Agreement Relating to Performance Guaranty entered into December 20, 2004 by PHH Corporation and Cendant Corporation and was agreed and consented to and accepted by Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, Apple Ridge Funding LLC (now known as Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC) and JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as indenture trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.22    Omnibus Amendment, Agreement and Consent entered into December 20, 2004 among Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, Apple Ridge Services Corporation, Apple Ridge Funding LLC (now known as Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC), JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as indenture trustee, The Bank of New York, as paying agent, the insurer and series enhancer and the then existing commercial paper conduits and banks as noteholders or committed purchasers (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form
8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.23    Second Omnibus Amendment, Agreement and Consent entered into January 31, 2005 among Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, Apple Ridge Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as indenture trustee, The Bank of New York, as paying agent, the insurer and series enhancer and the then existing commercial paper conduits and banks as noteholders or committed purchasers (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.24    Indenture Supplement dated as of January 31, 2005 among Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as indenture trustee, and The Bank of New York, as paying agent, authentication agent, transfer agent and registrant (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.25    CMGFSC Purchase Agreement dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, as originator, and Cendant Mobility Government Financial Services Corporation (now known as Cendant Mobility Relocation Company)*
10.26    Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Cendant Mobility Government Financial Services Corporation (now known as Cendant Mobility Relocation Company), as originator and seller, and Kenosia Funding, LLC, as buyer*
10.27    Fee Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, as originator, and Kenosia Funding, LLC, as issuer*

 

4


Exhibit No.   

Exhibit Description

10.28    Servicing Agreement dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, as originator and servicer, Cendant Mobility Government Financial Services Corporation (now known as Cendant Mobility Relocation Company), as originator, Kenosia Funding, LLC, as issuer, and The Bank of New York, as trustee*
10.29    Indenture dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Kenosia Funding, LLC, as issuer, and The Bank of New York, as trustee*
10.30    Omnibus Amendment, Agreement and Consent entered into December 20, 2004 among Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Government Financial Services Corporation (now known as Cendant Mobility Relocation Company), Kenosia Funding, LLC, The Bank of New York, as trustee, the purchaser of the notes, and the administrative agent for the purchaser*
10.31    Second Omnibus Amendment, Agreement and Consent entered into May 19, 2005 among Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Relocation Company, Kenosia Funding, LLC, The Bank of New York, as trustee, the purchaser of the notes, and the administrative agent for the purchaser*
21.1    Subsidiaries of Realogy Corporation
99.1    Information Statement of Realogy Corporation, subject to completion, dated April 3, 2006

* To be filed by amendment.

 

5


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.

 

REALOGY CORPORATION

By:

 

/ S /    R ICHARD A. S MITH

 

Name: Richard A. Smith

 

Title: Vice Chairman and President

Dated: April 3, 2006

 

6


EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit No.   

Exhibit Description

2.1    Form of Separation and Distribution Agreement by and among Realogy Corporation, Cendant Corporation, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation and the Travel Distribution Services company*
3.1    Form of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Realogy Corporation*
3.2    Form of Amended and Restated By-laws of Realogy Corporation*
10.1    Form of Tax Sharing Agreement among Realogy Corporation, Cendant Corporation, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation and the Travel Distribution Services company*
10.2    Form of Transition Services Agreement among Realogy Corporation, Cendant Corporation, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation and the Travel Distribution Services company*
10.3    Employment Agreement with Henry R. Silverman*
10.4    Employment Agreement with Richard A. Smith*
10.5    2006 Equity and Incentive Plan*
10.6    Employee Stock Purchase Plan*
10.7    Savings Restoration Plan*
10.8    Officer Deferred Compensation Plan*
10.9    Non-Employee Directors Deferred Compensation Plan*
10.10    Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement, dated as of January 31, 2005, of PHH Home Loans, LLC, by and between PHH Broker Partner Corporation and Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 4, 2005)
10.10(a)    Amendment Number 1 to the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement, dated as of April 2005, of PHH Home Loans, LLC, by and between PHH Broker Partner Corporation and Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc.
10.10(b)    Amendment Number 2 to the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2006, of PHH Home Loans, LLC, by and between PHH Broker Partner Corporation and Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc.
10.11    Strategic Relationship Agreement, dated as of January 31, 2005, by and among Cendant Real Estate Services Group, LLC, Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc., PHH Corporation, PHH Mortgage Corporation, PHH Broker Partner Corporation and PHH Home Loans, LLC (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 4, 2005)
10.11(a)    Amendment Number 1 to the Strategic Relationship, Agreement, dated May 2005 by and among Cendant Real Estate Services Group, LLC, Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc., PHH Corporation, PHH Mortgage Corporation, PHH Broker Partner Corporation and PHH Home Loans, LLC
10.12    Trademark License Agreement, dated as of February 17, 2004, among SPTC, Inc., Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc., Cendant Corporation and Monticello Licensee Corporation
10.12(a)    Amendment No. 1 to Trademark License Agreement, dated May 2, 2005, by and among SPTC Delaware LLC (as assignee of SPTC, Inc.), Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc., Cendant Corporation and Sotheby’s International Realty Licensee Corporation (f/k/a Monticello Licensee Corporation)
10.12(b)    Amendment No. 2 to Trademark License Agreement, dated May 2, 2005, by and among SPTC Delaware LLC (as assignee of SPTC, Inc.), Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc., Cendant Corporation and Sotheby’s International Realty Licensee Corporation (f/k/a Monticello Licensee Corporation)
10.13    Lease, dated as of December 29, 2000, between One Campus Associates L.L.C. and Cendant Operations, Inc.


Exhibit No.   

Exhibit Description

10.13(a)    First Amendment of Lease, dated as of October 16, 2001, by and between One Campus Associates, L.L.C. and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.13(b)    Second Amendment to Lease, dated as of June 7, 2002, by and between One Campus Associates, L.L.C. and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.13(c)    Third Amendment to Lease, dated as of April 28, 2003, by and between DB Real Estate One Campus Drive, L.P. and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.14    Office Building Lease, dated as of August 29, 2003, between MV Plaza, Inc. and Cendant Corporation
10.15    Agreement of Lease, dated as of August 11, 1997, between MMP Realty, LLC and HFS Mobility Services, Inc.
10.15(a)    First Amendment to Agreement of Lease, dated as of November 4, 2004, by and between MMP Realty, LLC and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.15(b)    Second Amendment to Agreement of Lease, dated as of April 18, 2005, by and between MMP Realty, LLC and Cendant Operations, Inc.
10.16    Lease Agreement, dated as of July 25, 2003, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Liberty Property Limited Partnership
10.17   

Lease, dated as of November 19, 1997, between HFS, Incorporated and Carramerica Realty, L.P.

10.17(a)    First Amendment to Lease, dated as of January 27, 1999, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Carramerica Realty, L.P.
10.17(b)    Second Amendment of Lease, dated as of April 28, 2003, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Carr Texas OP, LP
10.17(c)    Third Amendment of Lease, dated as of January 1, 2004, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Carr Texas OP, LP
10.17(d)    Fourth Amendment of Lease, dated as of August 19, 2005, between Cendant Operations, Inc. and Carr Texas OP, LP
10.18    Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of April 25, 2000 by and between Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, as originator and seller, and Apple Ridge Services Corporation as buyer (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.19    Transfer and Servicing Agreement, dated as of April 25, 2000, by and between Apple Ridge Services Corporation, as transferor, Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, as originator and servicer, Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, as originator and Apple Ridge Funding LLC (now known as Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC), as transferee, and Bank One, National Association (now JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association), as indenture trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.20    Performance Guaranty dated as of April 25, 2000 executed by PHH Corporation in favor of Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation and Apple Ridge Funding LLC (now known as Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.21    Assignment and Assumption Agreement Relating to Performance Guaranty entered into December 20, 2004 by PHH Corporation and Cendant Corporation and was agreed and consented to and accepted by Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, Apple Ridge Funding LLC (now known as Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC) and JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as indenture trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)


Exhibit No.   

Exhibit Description

10.22    Omnibus Amendment, Agreement and Consent entered into December 20, 2004 among Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, Apple Ridge Services Corporation, Apple Ridge Funding LLC (now known as Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC), JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as indenture trustee, The Bank of New York, as paying agent, the insurer and series enhancer and the then existing commercial paper conduits and banks as noteholders or committed purchasers (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form
8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.23    Second Omnibus Amendment, Agreement and Consent entered into January 31, 2005 among Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation, Apple Ridge Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as indenture trustee, The Bank of New York, as paying agent, the insurer and series enhancer and the then existing commercial paper conduits and banks as noteholders or committed purchasers (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.24    Indenture Supplement dated as of January 31, 2005 among Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as indenture trustee, and The Bank of New York, as paying agent, authentication agent, transfer agent and registrant (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Cendant Corporation Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 3, 2005)
10.25    CMGFSC Purchase Agreement dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, as originator, and Cendant Mobility Government Financial Services Corporation (now known as Cendant Mobility Relocation Company)*
10.26    Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Cendant Mobility Government Financial Services Corporation (now known as Cendant Mobility Relocation Company), as originator and seller, and Kenosia Funding, LLC, as buyer*
10.27    Fee Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, as originator, and Kenosia Funding, LLC, as issuer*
10.28    Servicing Agreement dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, as originator and servicer, Cendant Mobility Government Financial Services Corporation (now known as Cendant Mobility Relocation Company), as originator, Kenosia Funding, LLC, as issuer, and The Bank of New York, as trustee*
10.29    Indenture dated as of March 7, 2002 by and between Kenosia Funding, LLC, as issuer, and The Bank of New York, as trustee*
10.30    Omnibus Amendment, Agreement and Consent entered into December 20, 2004 among Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Government Financial Services Corporation (now known as Cendant Mobility Relocation Company), Kenosia Funding, LLC, The Bank of New York, as trustee, the purchaser of the notes, and the administrative agent for the purchaser*
10.31    Second Omnibus Amendment, Agreement and Consent entered into May 19, 2005 among Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, Cendant Mobility Relocation Company, Kenosia Funding, LLC, The Bank of New York, as trustee, the purchaser of the notes, and the administrative agent for the purchaser*
21.1    Subsidiaries of Realogy Corporation
99.1    Information Statement of Realogy Corporation, subject to completion, dated April 3, 2006

* To be filed by amendment.

Exhibit 10.10(a)

AMENDMENT NO. 1

TO THE

AMENDED AND RESTATED

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY OPERATING AGREEMENT

OF PHH HOME LOANS, LLC

This Amendment (this “ Amendment ”), entered into as of the      day of April, 2005, by and between PHH Broker Partner Corporation, a Maryland corporation (the “ PHH Member ”), and Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “ Cendant Member ”), amends the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement of PHH Home Loans, LLC, dated as of January 31, 2005, by and between the PHH Member and the Cendant Member (the “ LLC Agreement ”).

Capitalized terms used in this Amendment without definition shall have the meanings given to them in the LLC Agreement.

WHEREAS, the PHH Member and the Cendant Member desire to amend the LLC Agreement to extend the date after which the Cendant Member may deliver to the PHH Member the Two-Year Termination Notice from the eighth (8 th ) anniversary of the Closing Date to the tenth (10 th ) anniversary of the Closing Date.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual agreements set forth in the LLC Agreement and this Amendment, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, hereby agree as follows:

1. The first paragraph of Section 8.4(a) of the LLC Agreement shall be amended in its entirety to read as follows:

(a) Two-Year Termination . At any time after the tenth (10 th ) anniversary of the Closing Date, the Cendant Member may deliver to the PHH Member a written notice (the “ Two-Year Termination Notice ”) requesting that the PHH Member either (i) purchase or cause to be purchased (the “ Two Year Put ”) all of the Interests held by the Cendant Member or any of its Affiliates on a date no earlier than two years after such Two-Year Termination Notice is delivered to the PHH Member (“ Two Year Put Date ”) or (ii) sell (the “ Two Year PHH Sale ”) all of the Interests then held by the PHH Member and/or any of its Affiliates to a Person that is not affiliated with Cendant (any such Person, for purposes of this Section 8.4, the “ Cendant Designated Buyer ”) on a date no earlier than two years after such Two-Year Termination Notice is delivered to the PHH Member (“ Two Year Sale Date ”).


2. Section 8.2(a)(iii) of the LLC Agreement shall be amended in its entirety to read as follows:

(iii) “ Termination Payment ” means an amount equal to (A) the product of (x) two (2) and (y) the actual Net Income of the Company for the trailing twelve months (“ LTM Net Income ”), plus (B) all costs reasonably incurred by Cendant in unwinding its relationship with PHH pursuant to this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents and transitioning to a new mortgage venture partner; provided , however , that in the case of a Cendant Termination Event pursuant to a PHH Change in Control, in calculating the Termination Payment, the LTM Net Income shall instead be multiplied by the number of years (including fractions thereof) remaining until the twelfth (12 th ) anniversary of the Closing Date; provided further , however , that if such PHH Change in Control termination occurs on or after the tenth (10 th ) anniversary of the Closing Date, the LTM Net Income shall be multiplied by two (2).

3. The term “Agreement” as used in the LLC Agreement shall be deemed to refer to the LLC Agreement as amended hereby. Except as set forth herein, the LLC Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall be otherwise unaffected hereby. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this Amendment, on the one hand, and the LLC Agreement, on the other hand, with respect to the matters set forth herein and contemplated hereby, the provisions of this Amendment shall govern such conflict or inconsistency.

4. This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts, and each of such counterparts shall for all purposes be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same agreement.

 

2


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment to the LLC Agreement, effective as of the date first written above.

 

CENDANT REAL ESTATE SERVICES VENTURE PARTNER, INC.

By:

 

/s/ Dave Weaving

Name:

 

Dave Weaving

Title:

 

SVP

 

PHH BROKER PARTNER

CORPORATION

By:

 

/s/ Joseph E. Suter

 

Name:

 

Joseph E. Suter

Title:

 

President

 

3

Exhibit 10.10(b)

AMENDMENT NO. 2

TO THE

AMENDED AND RESTATED

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY OPERATING AGREEMENT

OF PHH HOME LOANS, LLC

This Amendment (this “ Amendment ”), entered as of the 31 st day of March, 2006, by and between PHH Broker Partner Corporation, a Maryland corporation (the “ PHH Member ”), and Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “ Cendant Member ”), amends the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement of PHH Home Loans, LLC, dated as of January 31, 2005, by and between the PHH Member and the Cendant Member, as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto, dated as of May 12, 2005 (the “ LLC Agreement ”).

Capitalized terms used in the Agreement without definition shall have the meanings given to them in the LLC Agreement.

WHEREAS, the PHH Member and the Cendant Member desire to amend the LLC Agreement to modify the method for calculating the Two Year Put Price and Two Year Sale Price.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual agreements set forth in the LLC Agreement and this Amendment, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, hereby agree as follows:

 

1. Section 8.4(a)(i)(1) of the LLC Agreement shall be amended in its entirety to read as follows:

(1) The exercise price of the Two Year Put (the “ Two Year Put Price ”) shall be an amount equal to the sum of (A) the fair value of the Interests of the Cendant Member and any Affiliate thereof, which shall be determined in accordance with the Valuation Process described below, as of the Two Year Put Closing Date, plus (B) the aggregate amount of all past due quarterly distributions to the Cendant Member and any Affiliate thereof and any unpaid distribution in respect of the most recently completed Fiscal Quarter pursuant to Section 5.6 hereof as of the Two Year Put Closing Date, plus (C) an amount equal to 49.9% of the Net Income realized by the Company at any time after the end of the Fiscal Quarter most recently completed as of the Two Year Put Closing Date attributable to Mortgage Loans in process at any time prior to the Two Year Put Closing Date. No later than sixty (60) days prior to the Two Year Put Date, the Cendant Member shall deliver to the PHH member a written notice setting forth the Cendant Member’s calculation of (B) and (C) above and the basis for such calculation. Any disagreement regarding the Two Year Put Price or any other matter related to the exercise of the Two Year Put shall be resolved in accordance with the provisions of Section 13.6 hereof. In the event that the Cendant Member elects to exercise


the Two Year Put, the PHH Member and the Cendant Member shall, and shall cause their respective Affiliates to, cooperate as fully as reasonably possible with one another to consummate the Two year Put transaction on the Two Year Put Date. Concurrently with the consummation of the Two Year Put transaction, the PHH Member shall pay or cause to be paid the Two Year Put Price to the Cendant Member in cash by wire transfer of immediately available funds to an account or accounts designated in writing by the Cendant Member. The “ Two Year Put Closing Date ” shall be the date on which the Two Year Put is consummated. The Valuation Process shall proceed as follows: Each of the Cendant Member and PHH Member shall submit the matter to an investment banker or appraiser experienced in the valuation of mortgage banking entities (each, a “Valuation Expert” and collectively, the “ Valuation Experts ”) of their own choosing within thirty (30) days of delivery of the Two Year Termination Notice. Within thirty (30) days, or as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable, the Valuation Experts shall issue their determination of the fair value of the Interests of the Cendant Member and any Affiliate thereof as of the Two Year Put Closing Date, understanding and taking into consideration all relevant facts and circumstances, including the consequences of the Two Year Put (including, but not limited to, the automatic termination of all other Transaction Documents); provided , however , that if any party’s Valuation Expert shall not have delivered its determination of fair value within seventy-five (75) days the determination of fair value of the other party’s Valuation Expert shall be binding upon the parties hereto. If the difference between the two valuations shall be less than or equal to ten percent (10%), then the average of the two shall be deemed to be the fair value, which shall be binding upon the parties hereto. If the difference between the two valuations shall be greater than ten percent (10%), then the Valuation Experts shall within 15 days jointly select and submit the matter to a third nationally recognized investment banker or appraiser with experience in valuation of mortgage banking entities (“ Third Expert ”), The Third Expert in turn shall, within thirty (30) days, or as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable, issue its determination of fair value, which shall be binding upon the parties hereto. Cendant Member and PHH Member shall cooperate fully with the Valuation Experts and any Third Expert, and information provided to any Valuation Expert shall also be provided to the other Valuation Expert and the Third Expert in connection with their reviews. Each party shall bear all fees and expenses of its own Valuation Expert, and the parties shall bear equally the fees and expenses of any Third Expert.

 

2. Section 8.4(a)(ii)(2) of the LLC Agreement shall be amended in its entirety to read as follows:

(2) The sale price (the “ Two Year Sale Price ”) of the PHH Member’s Interest to the Cendant Designated Buyer shall be an amount equal to the sum of (A) the fair value of the PHH Member’s Interests, which shall be determined in accordance with the Valuation Process described below, as of the Two Year

 

2


Sale Date, plus (B) the aggregate amount of all past due quarterly distributions to the PHH Member and any Affiliate thereof and any unpaid distribution in respect of the most recently completed Fiscal Quarter pursuant to Section 5.6 hereof as of such date, plus (C) an amount equal to 50.1% of the Net Income realized by the Company at any time after the end of the Fiscal Quarter most recently completed as of the Two Year Sale Date attributable to Mortgage Loans in process at any time prior to the Two Year Sale Date. No later than sixty (60) days prior to the Two Year Sale Date, the Cendant Member shall deliver to the PHH member a written notice setting forth the Cendant Member’s calculation of (B) and (C) above and the basis for such calculation. Any disagreement regarding the Two Year Sale Price or any other matter related to the exercise of the Two Year Sale shall be resolved in accordance with the provisions of Section 13.6 hereof. The Valuation Process shall proceed as follows: Each of the Cendant Member and PHH Member shall submit the matter to a Valuation Expert of their own choosing within thirty (30) days of delivery of the Two Year Termination Notice. Within thirty (30) days, or as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable, the Valuation Experts shall issue their determination of the fair value of the PHH Member’s Interest as of the Two Year Sale Date; provided , however , that if any party’s Valuation Expert shall not have delivered its determination of fair value within seventy-five (75) days the determination of fair value of the other party’s Valuation Expert shall be binding upon the parties hereto. If the difference between the two valuations shall be less than or equal to ten percent (10%), then the average of the two shall be deemed to be the fair value, which shall be binding upon the parties hereto. If the difference between the two valuations shall be greater than ten percent (10%), then the Valuation Experts shall within 15 days jointly select and submit the matter to a Third Expert. The Third Expert in turn shall, within thirty (30) days, or as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable, issue its determination of fair value, which shall be binding upon the parties hereto. Cendant Member and PHH Member shall cooperate fully with the Valuation Experts and any Third Expert, and information provided to any Valuation Expert shall also be provided to the other Valuation Expert and the Third Expert in connection with their reviews. Each party shall bear all fees and expenses of its own Valuation Expert, and the parties shall bear equally the fees and expenses of any Third Expert.

 

3. The term “ Agreement ” as used in the LLC Agreement shall be deemed to refer to the LLC Agreement as amended hereby. Except as set forth herein, the LLC Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall be otherwise unaffected hereby. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Amendment, on the one hand, and the LLC Agreement, on the other hand, with respect to the matters set forth herein and contemplated hereby, the provisions of this Amendment shall govern such conflict or inconsistently.

 

3


4. This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts, and each of such counterparts shall for all purposes be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same agreement.

 

4


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment to the LLC Agreement, effective as of the date first written above.

 

CENDANT REAL ESTATE SERVICES VENTURE PARTNER INC.
By:   /s/ David J. Weaving
  Name: David J. Weaving
  Title:
PHH BROKER PARTNER CORPORATION
By:   /s/ Terence Edwards
  Name: Terence Edwards
  Title:

Exhibit 10.11(a)

AMENDMENT NO. 1

TO THE

STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIP AGREEMENT

This Amendment (this “ Amendment ”), entered into as of the             day of May, 2005, by and among Cendant Real Estate Services Group, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc., a Delaware corporation, PHH Corporation, a Maryland corporation, PHH Mortgage Corporation, a New Jersey corporation, PHH Broker Partner Corporation, a Maryland corporation, and PHH Home Loans, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (collectively, the “ Parties ”), amends the Strategic Relationship Agreement, dated as of January 31, 2005, by and among the Parties (the “ SRA ”).

Capitalized terms used in this Amendment without definition shall have the meanings given to them in the SRA.

WHEREAS, the Parties desire to amend the SRA to create an exception to the exclusivity obligations contained in Section 2.1 thereof where such obligations conflict with law or the terms of certain contracts to which Cendant Mobility is a party.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual agreements set forth in the SRA and this Amendment, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, hereby agree as follows:

1.    Section 2.2 of the SRA shall be amended to add a new subparagraph (c), which will read as follows:

(c) To the extent Cendant Mobility determines that it is required to do so by law or the terms of any contract with a client to which it is or becomes a party, Cendant Mobility may recommend to its relocation customers, in addition to the Company, one or more alternative providers (as specified by the client) of Mortgage Loans and other mortgage products and services not affiliated with Cendant or PHH. In such event, to the extent permissible, Cendant Mobility will use commercially reasonable efforts to recommend to its clients PHH’s other private label customers; provided , however that both PHH and Cendant acknowledge that Cendant Mobility’s customers retain the ultimate decision related to such recommendation.

2.    The term “Agreement” as used in the SRA shall be deemed to refer to the SRA as amended hereby. Except as set forth herein, the SRA shall remain in full force and effect and shall be otherwise unaffected hereby. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of this Amendment, on the one hand, and the SRA, on the other hand, with respect to the matters set forth herein and contemplated hereby, the provisions of this Amendment shall govern such conflict or inconsistency.


3.    This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts, and each of such counterparts shall for all purposes be deemed an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same agreement.

 

2


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment to the SRA, effective as of the date first written above.

 

CENDANT REAL ESTATE SERVICES

GROUP, LLC

By:   / S /    D AVE J. W EAVING
 

Name: Dave J. Weaving

 

Title:   SVP

 

CENDANT REAL ESTATE SERVICES

VENTURE PARTNER, INC.

By:   / S /    D AVE J. W EAVING
 

Name: Dave J. Weaving

 

Title:   SVP

 

PHH CORPORATION

By:   / S /    T ERENCE W. E DWARDS
 

Name: Terence W. Edwards

 

Title:   President and CEO

 

 

PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION

By:   / S /    J OSEPH E. S UTER
 

Name: Joseph E. Suter

 

Title:   President and CEO

 

PHH HOME LOANS, LLC

By:   / S /    T ERENCE W. E DWARDS
 

Name: Terence W. Edwards

 

Title:   President and CEO

 

PHH BROKER PARTNER CORPORATION

By:   / S /    J OSEPH E. S UTER
 

Name: Joseph E. Suter

 

Title:   President

 

3

Exhibit 10.12

Execution Copy

 


TRADEMARK LICENSE AGREEMENT

among

SPTC, INC.

as Licensor,

and

SOTHEBY’S HOLDINGS, INC.

as Guarantor

MONTICELLO LICENSEE CORPORATION

as Licensee,

and

CENDANT CORPORATION

as Guarantor

Dated as of February 17, 2004

 



TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

            Page

ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS AND TERMS

   1

Section 1.1.

   Definitions    1

Section 1.2.

   Other Interpretive Provisions    12

ARTICLE II GRANT OF RIGHTS

   12

Section 2.1.

   Grant of License    12

Section 2.2.

   License of Domain Names    13

Section 2.3.

   Authorized Ancillary Services    14

ARTICLE III BRANDING AND MARKETING

   15

Section 3.1.

   Combined Names and Marks    15

Section 3.2.

   Positioning of Brand    16

Section 3.3.

   Alliance Marketing    16

Section 3.4.

   Trademark Usage Guidelines    17

Section 3.5.

   Promotional Materials    18

Section 3.6.

   Government Filings and Investor Relations    18

Section 3.7.

   Branded Franchise Marketing    18

Section 3.8.

   Licensor’s Publications    19

Section 3.9.

   Modification of Sotheby’s Name    19

Section 3.10.

   Advertising and Marketing Agents    19

ARTICLE IV TERM

   20

Section 4.1.

   Initial Term    20

Section 4.2.

   Renewal Term    20

ARTICLE V FEES

   20

Section 5.1.

   Fees    20

Section 5.2.

   Other Matters Relating to the Determination of Covered Revenue    22

Section 5.3.

   Payment of Fees    23

Section 5.4.

   Late Payment    23

Section 5.5.

   Method of Payment    23

Section 5.6.

   Minimum Fees    24

ARTICLE VI MUTUAL REFERRALS

   24

Section 6.1.

   Referrals by Licensor    24

Section 6.2.

   Referrals by Licensee    25

Section 6.3.

   Payment of Referral Fees    25

ARTICLE VII QUALITY CONTROL

   25

Section 7.1.

   Eligible Markets    25

Section 7.2.

   Sublicensee Eligibility Guidelines    26

Section 7.3.

   Quality Control Standards With Respect To Owned Operations    28

 

(i)


Section 7.4.

   Quality Control Standards With Respect To Affiliated and Franchised Operations    29

Section 7.5.

   Excluded Services by Branded Operators; Prohibition on Co-Mingling Marks    30

Section 7.6.

   Uniform Franchise Offering Circular    30

Section 7.7.

   Termination of Relationship    30

Section 7.8.

   Notice of Breach    31

Section 7.9.

   Sample Uses of Licensed Marks    31

ARTICLE VIII REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

   31

Section 8.1.

   Representation and Warranties of Holdings and Licensor    31

Section 8.2.

   Representations and Warranties of Parent and Licensee    33

ARTICLE IX RECORDS; AUDITS AND INSPECTIONS

   34

Section 9.1.

   Maintenance of Records    34

Section 9.2.

   Right of Inspection and Audit    34

Section 9.3.

   Payment Deficiency    35

ARTICLE X SPECIAL COVENANTS AND AGREEMENTS

   35

Section 10.1.

   Registration of Marks    35

Section 10.2.

   Compliance with Laws    36

Section 10.3.

   Right of First Offer With Respect To Timeshare Brokerage Services    36

Section 10.4.

   Right of First Offer With Respect To Licensee Brokerage Business    37

Section 10.5.

   Certain Trademark Filings    37

Section 10.6.

   Further Assurances    38

Section 10.7.

   Prohibition on Auction House Business    38

Section 10.8.

   Acknowledgement of SIR Rights    38

Section 10.9.

   Establishment of SPV; Transfers and Pledge    38

Section 10.10.

   Synthesis Acknowledgement    39

ARTICLE XI EXCLUSIVITY; NON-COMPETITION

   39

Section 11.1.

   Exclusivity    39

Section 11.2.

   Non-Competition    40

ARTICLE XII OWNERSHIP AND PROTECTION OF MARKS

   41

Section 12.1.

   Ownership of Marks    41

Section 12.2.

   Proprietary Materials    41

Section 12.3.

   Protection of Marks    41

Section 12.4.

   No Registration by Licensee    42

Section 12.5.

   Infringement Actions    42

Section 12.6.

   Licensee Estoppel    44

ARTICLE XIII INDEMNIFICATION

   45

Section 13.1.

   Indemnification by Licensee    45

Section 13.2.

   Indemnification by Licensor    46

Section 13.3.

   Limitations on Indemnification    46

Section 13.4.

   Survival of Representations and Warranties    48

 

(ii)


Section 13.5.

   Notice and Resolution of Claim    48

ARTICLE XIV DEFAULT AND TERMINATION

   50

Section 14.1.

   Termination    50

Section 14.2.

   Effect of Termination    51

ARTICLE XV REVIEW COMMITTEE AND LIAISONS

   52

Section 15.1.

   Formation    52

Section 15.2.

   Responsibilities    53

Section 15.3.

   Liaisons    53

Section 15.4.

   Winding Down    54

Section 15.5.

   Non-Exclusive Role    54

ARTICLE XVI CERTAIN REMEDIES

   54

Section 16.1.

   Specific Performance    54

Section 16.2.

   Limitation of Remedies    54

Section 16.3.

   DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES    54

ARTICLE XVII ASSIGNMENT

   55

Section 17.1.

   Assignments Generally    55

Section 17.2.

   Permitted Assignment    55

Section 17.3.

   Deemed Assignment    55

Section 17.4.

   Assignment of Rights to Fees    55

Section 17.5.

   Effect of Assignment    56

ARTICLE XVIII OPTION RELATING TO FOREIGN TRADEMARKS

   56

Section 18.1.

   Grant of Option    56

Section 18.2.

   Maintenance of Registration; Limitation    56

Section 18.3.

   Exercise of Option    56

Section 18.4.

   Covenant of Licensor Following Exercise    58

Section 18.5.

   Negative Covenants of Licensor With Respect to Option Territory    58

Section 18.6.

   Ownership of Marks    58

ARTICLE XIX GUARANTEE

   59

Section 19.1.

   Guarantees    59

Section 19.2.

   Waiver of Notices, Etc.    60

Section 19.3.

   Reinstatement    61

Section 19.4.

   Waiver of Subrogation; Subordination    61

Section 19.5.

   Successors and Assigns    61

ARTICLE XX MISCELLANEOUS

   62

Section 20.1.

   Information Transmission    62

Section 20.2.

   Notices    62

Section 20.3.

   Amendment; Waiver    62

Section 20.4.

   Expenses    62

Section 20.5.

   GOVERNING LAW; JURISDICTION; VENUE; SERVICE OF PROCESS; WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL    62

Section 20.6.

   Relationship of the Parties    63

Section 20.7.

   Severability    63

Section 20.8.

   Headings    63

Section 20.9.

   Entire Agreement    64

Section 20.10.

   Counterparts    64

 

(iii)


TRADEMARK LICENSE AGREEMENT , dated as of February 17, 2004 (this “ Agreement ”), among SPTC, Inc., a Nevada corporation, and Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc., a Michigan corporation (“ Holdings ”), on the one hand, and Cendant Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“ Parent ”), and Monticello Licensee Corporation, a Delaware corporation and an indirect wholly-owned Subsidiary of Parent (the “ Licensee ”), on the other hand.

W I T N E S S E T H :

WHEREAS , Holdings, Parent and NRT Incorporated, a Delaware corporation and an indirect Subsidiary of Parent (“ Buyer ”), are parties to the Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of the date hereof (the “ Purchase Agreement ”), with respect to the purchase and sale of all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc., a Michigan corporation and a wholly-owned Subsidiary of Holdings (“ SIR ”), upon the terms and conditions set forth therein;

WHEREAS , in connection with the execution and delivery and closing of the Purchase Agreement, the parties hereto are entering into this Agreement;

WHEREAS , in connection with the preparation of this Agreement, the parties have reviewed, together and independently, their respective operations of residential real estate brokerage services, and in particular the operations of the Licensee Group with respect to the high quality of services that it provides, both directly and through its franchisees, the manner in which it operates its franchise systems, and the nature and scope of the quality control standards contained in its franchise agreements;

WHEREAS , Licensor’s determination to enter into this Agreement is based in significant part upon the particular nature and manner of the business operations of the Licensee Group as described above, its highly secure financial condition, its high quality professional management and reputation as a leading provider of residential real estate brokerage services, and the distinct compatibility of the Licensed Marks and the high quality services and reputation of the Licensee Group in the residential real estate brokerage industry;

NOW, THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing premises and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereto agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS AND TERMS

Section 1.1. Definitions . The following terms as used in this Agreement shall have the following meanings:

Acquiror ” is defined in Section 11.2(c).

Acquiror Group ” is defined in Section 11.2(c).

 

1


Affiliate ” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Rule 12b-2 of the General Rules and Regulations under the Exchange Act as in effect as of the Effective Date.

Agreement ” is defined in the initial caption of this Agreement.

Appearance ” shall mean, with respect to a Mark, the color, font (or typography), and the style of such Mark itself, but excluding for the avoidance of doubt and without limitation, ( i ) the size of such Mark (including with respect to its use in advertising, signage, business cards, letterhead and other similar presentations), ( ii ) layout and ( iii ) order or placement in combination or presentation with other Marks (subject to Section 3.1).

Applicable Registered Country ” shall mean, with respect to a Registered Mark, the country in the Territory in which such Registered Mark is registered.

Applicable Registered Services ” shall mean, with respect to a Registered Mark, each specific Authorized Service covered by the certificate of registration for such Registered Mark.

Artistically Significant Residence ” shall mean Residential Real Estate that is reasonably considered to constitute a work of art or that otherwise has important historical, artistic, cultural or architectural significance (whether with respect to architecture, design or materials) or includes or is substantially related to a collection of fine art, antiques, objet d’art or other collectibles or an estate sale.

Artwork ” is defined in Section 12.2.

ASP ” is defined in Section 7.2(a)(i)(A).

Auction House ” shall mean a Person that, directly or indirectly, engages in an Auction House Business.

Auction House Business ” shall mean the business of conducting and sponsoring auctions of property, including antiques, fine art, objet d’art, collectibles, Artistically Significant Residences, and the performance of services and operations relating and incidental thereto, including appraisals and valuation of property, and by way of illustration and not of limitation, the auction business and related services and operations conducted by Holdings as of the Effective Date; provided that the term “Auction House Business” shall be deemed to exclude ( i ) the sale of real estate (other than Artistically Significant Residences) in auction brokerage format by real estate brokers, ( ii ) auctions conducted on the Internet for products that ( A ) are not principally composed of items of property constituting antiques, fine art and objet d’art and ( B ) are marketed to a broad cross section of consumers and ( iii ) Authorized Ancillary Services.

Authorized Ancillary Services ” is defined in Section 2.3(b).

Authorized Brokerage Services ” shall mean real estate brokerage services for Residential Real Estate.

Authorized Services ” is defined in Section 2.1(a).

 

2


Branded Broker Affiliate ” shall mean a Broker Affiliate of Licensee or any Company Affiliate for so long as it offers and sells Authorized Brokerage Services under the Licensed Marks (whether or not combined with any other Mark pursuant to this Agreement).

Branded Franchise ” shall mean a franchise granted to a Franchisee pursuant to a Branded Franchise Agreement.

Branded Franchise Agreement ” shall mean any agreement between a Branded Franchisee and Licensee or a Company Affiliate, pursuant to which such Branded Franchisee is granted a sublicense to any Licensed Mark.

Branded Franchisee ” shall mean a Person that is a licensed provider of Authorized Brokerage Services and that is a Franchisee, for so long as it offers and sells Authorized Brokerage Services under the Licensed Marks (whether or not combined with any other Mark pursuant to this Agreement).

Branded Operator ” shall mean Licensee and any sublicensee of any Licensed Mark, including any Company Affiliate, Branded Owned Office, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Franchisee.

Branded Owned Office ” shall mean an Owned Office for so long as it provides Authorized Brokerage Services under the Licensed Marks (whether or not combined with any other Mark pursuant to this Agreement).

Broker Affiliate ” shall mean, with respect to any Person, a Person that is a licensed provider of Authorized Brokerage Services and who provides such Authorized Brokerage Services pursuant to or in connection with a real estate brokerage affiliation agreement or other similar agreement (other than a franchise agreement) with such first Person, or who is otherwise a member of a real estate brokerage affiliate network of such first Person or its Affiliates, with respect to the offering and provision of Authorized Brokerage Services.

Broker Affiliate Agreement ” shall mean ( i ) an agreement between any Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate, on the one hand, and any of SIR, Licensee or any Company Affiliate, as assignee of SIR or any Licensor Affiliate, on the other hand, that is in effect as of the Effective Date or ( ii ) any agreement between a Branded Broker Affiliate and Licensee or any Company Affiliate pursuant to which such Branded Broker Affiliate is granted a sublicense to any Licensed Mark.

Brokerage Service Provider Claim ” is defined in Section 12.5(b)(i).

Business Day ” shall mean any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday or a day on which banks in New York City are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close.

Buyer ” is defined in the introduction of this Agreement.

Co-Marketer ” is defined in Section 3.3.

Company Affiliate ” shall mean any Affiliate of Licensee.

 

3


Computer Art ” is defined in Section 12.2.

Concierge Service ” shall mean a service provided by a Residential Real Estate broker to a client home buyer or seller as a service ancillary to such brokerage service and pursuant to which the broker provides referrals to, or assists in making logistical arrangements on behalf of the client with, third-party providers of services associated with moving into or out of, or maintaining, a residence, provided that such moving or maintenance services (or services associated therewith) into or out of a residence are provided by a third party and not by the real estate broker or any Person under the Licensed Marks.

Confidential Information ” is defined in Section 9.2(d).

Control ” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Rule 12b-2 of the General Rules and Regulations under the Exchange Act as in effect as of the Effective Date.

Corcoran Legacy Office ” shall mean any Owned Office offering or selling Authorized Brokerage Services under the Corcoran Mark or any derivative thereof, as of the Effective Date, including any subsequent Relocation thereof.

Corcoran Mark ” shall mean the CORCORAN trademark and service mark.

Covered Books and Records ” is defined in Section 9.1(a).

Covered Geographic Area ” is defined in Section 7.2(a)(i).

Covered Revenue ” means Franchisee Covered Revenue or Owned Covered Revenue, as applicable.

Damages ” is defined in Section 13.1.

Derivative Works ” is defined in Section 12.2.

Domain Names ” shall mean the domain names set forth in Part I of Schedule A attached hereto and any similar or successor electronic address mechanism or system, whether now known or hereafter devised from any form, consisting of any Licensed Marks and set forth in Part I of Schedule A, as such Part I of Schedule A may be amended by the parties from time to time.

Earned ” shall mean, with respect to revenue or other income, income or revenue that is earned and accrued.

Effective Date ” shall mean the date hereof.

Election Period ” is defined in Section 13.5(a).

Eligible Market ” is defined in Section 7.1(b).

Eligible Marks ” is defined in Section 3.1(c)(i).

 

4


Eligible SPV ” shall mean a Person that ( i ) is a Subsidiary of Holdings and ( ii ) has in its Organizational Documents provisions substantially similar to or having a substantially similar effect as, the provisions set forth on Exhibit A.

Exchange Act ” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as in effect as of the date hereof.

Excluded Services ” shall mean ( i ) commercial real estate brokerage services, ( ii ) Timeshare Brokerage Services, ( iii ) Residential Real Estate management and management services, other than as specifically included in the definition of “Residential Real Estate” in this Agreement, ( iv ) real estate development services or products (whether as a developer or as an advisor or consultant or other service provider with respect to real estate developments), other than advice and consultation related to sales of Residential Real Estate within any development and ( v ) any other services related to the foregoing or to any real estate brokerage services, in each case other than the Authorized Services.

Existing Auction Client ” is defined in Section 6.2(a).

Existing Brokerage Lead ” is defined in Section 6.1(a).

Extension Right ” is defined in Section 4.1.

Fee Statement ” is defined in Section 5.3(b).

Fees ” shall mean the royalties due to Licensor pursuant to the terms and conditions of Article 5.

First Offer Notice ” is defined in Section 10.3(a).

Foreign Operations Sale ” is defined in Section 18.1.

Former Branded Franchisee-Affiliate ” means, as of any date, a Person that was a Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate in the 12-months immediately proceeding such date.

Franchise Wind-Down Period ” is defined in Section 14.2(a)(iii).

Franchisee ” is defined in Section 2.1(b).

Franchisee Claim ” is defined in Section 12.5(a)(i).

Franchised Mark ” is defined in Section 3.1(b).

Franchisee Covered Revenue ” shall mean, with respect to any Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate, all royalty or equivalent revenue Earned on gross commission income (or, in the event gross commission income is replaced in whole or in part by revenue of another or an equivalent type after the Effective Date in the Residential Real Estate brokerage industry generally, such other or equivalent revenue) of such Branded Franchisee or

 

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Branded Broker Affiliate, as applicable, which royalty or equivalent revenue Earned on gross commission income (or such other or equivalent revenue, as applicable) shall not include: ( i ) payments by any Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate for advertising charges and marketing fees (including by way of example and not of limitation, the National Advertising Fund or NAF, currently maintained by the Licensee Group as of the Effective Date); ( ii ) initial franchise fees paid by any Branded Franchisee that are up front fees not related to actual Residential Real Estate transactions; ( iii ) royalties or equivalent revenue Earned on revenue from the provision of any Authorized Ancillary Services by such Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate; and ( iv ) other payments by any Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate in connection with charges by Licensee or any Company Affiliate for administrative or ancillary services provided by Licensee or any Company Affiliate in its capacity as a franchisor or licensor and which payments are not calculated as a percentage or function of the revenues of the Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate.

Governmental Authority ” shall mean any national, federal, state, local or foreign judicial, legislative, executive, regulatory or administrative authority, self-regulatory organization or arbitrator having legally binding authority.

Guarantee ” is defined in Section 19.1.

Guidelines ” is defined in Section 7.2(a).

Holdings ” is defined in the introduction of this Agreement.

Holdings Change of Control ” is defined in Section 11.2(c).

Holdings Guarantee ” is defined in Section 19.1(b).

Holdings Obligations ” is defined in Section 19.1(b).

Indemnified Party ” is defined in Section 13.5(a).

Indemnifying Party ” is defined in Section 13.5(a).

Indemnity Payments ” is defined in Section 13.5(d).

Initial Termination Date ” is defined in Section 4.1.

Laws ” shall mean any federal, state, foreign or local law, common law, statute, ordinance, rule, regulation, order, judgment, administrative order, decree, administrative or judicial decision and any other executive, legislative, regulatory or administrative proclamation in each case having binding legal effect.

Licensed Marks ” shall mean, collectively, ( i ) the SIR Mark, ( ii ) the Domain Names, ( iii ) any Unregistered Mark and (iv)  in any Option Territory in which the Option is exercised, any of the foregoing (i) – (iii)  transliterated into the applicable local language or languages of such Option Territory effective upon grant of the license pursuant to the terms and conditions of Article 18.

 

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Licensee Brokerage Business ” shall mean the real estate brokerage business of Licensee and the Company Affiliates, including their company-owned, licensed and franchised businesses.

Licensee Deductible Amount ” is defined in Section 13.3(a).

Licensee Group ” shall mean, individually and collectively, Licensee and each Company Affiliate.

Licensee Indemnified Parties ” is defined in Section 13.2.

Licensee Liaison ” shall mean, individually and collectively, the liaisons designated by Licensee pursuant to Section 15.3.

Licensee ” is defined in the initial caption of this Agreement.

Licensee Group Marks ” is defined in Section 3.1(d).

Licensor ” shall mean ( i ) SPTC, Inc., a Nevada corporation, and upon an assignment of the Licensed Marks and Licensor’s rights and obligations under this Agreement to an Eligible SPV pursuant to Section 10.9(a) or 11.1(b), such Eligible SPV, together with ( ii ) any Eligible SPV that becomes a Licensor hereunder pursuant to Section 18.3(e)(v).

Licensor Affiliate ” shall mean Holdings and each of its Subsidiaries, provided that following a Holdings Change of Control, “Licensor Affiliate” shall further include any Affiliate of Holdings.

Licensor Deductible Amount ” is defined in Section 13.3(b).

Licensor Indemnified Parties ” is defined in Section 13.1.

Licensor Liaison ” shall mean the liaison designated by Licensor pursuant to Section 15.3.

Licensor Offer Notice ” is defined in Section 10.4(a).

Litigation ” shall mean any litigation, action, suit, proceeding, claim, arbitration or investigation before any Governmental Authority or before any arbitrator or mediator or similar party, or any investigation or review by any Governmental Authority.

Mark ” shall mean any name, brand, design, trademark, service mark, trade dress, logo, domain name, corporate, trade or business name.

Measurement Period ” is defined in Section 7.1(b).

Minimum Amount ” is defined in Section 5.6(b).

Model Code of Ethics ” shall mean the International Franchise Association Code of Principles and Standards of Conduct as set forth on Exhibit B hereto.

 

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Model Co-Mingling Provisions ” shall mean the “Model Co-Mingling Provisions” set forth on Exhibit C hereto.

Model Provisions ” shall mean, collectively, the Model Co-Mingling Provisions, the Model Quality Control Provisions and the Model Code of Ethics.

Model Quality Control Provisions ” shall mean the “Model Quality Control Provisions” set forth on Exhibit D hereto.

MSP ” is defined in Section 7.1(b).

New Broker Affiliate ” shall mean any Branded Broker Affiliate that is not a Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate.

New Market ” shall mean a Covered Geographic Area in which a Sold Owned Office or a Corcoran Legacy Office, as applicable, performs or offers for sale Authorized Brokerage Services, other than the Covered Geographic Area in which the Sold Owned Office or Corcoran Legacy Office, as applicable, performed the Authorized Brokerage Services as of the Effective Date.

New Owned Office ” shall mean any Branded Owned Office that is not a Sold Office or a Corcoran Legacy Office.

New Style Date ” is defined in Section 3.9.

New Style Notice ” is defined in Section 3.9.

Non-Compete Period ” is defined in Section 11.2(a).

Obligations ” is defined in Section 19.1(a).

Offer ” is defined in Section 10.4(b).

Offer Period ” is defined in Section 10.4(b).

Option ” is defined in Section 18.1.

Option Consents and Filings ” is defined in Section 18.3(c).

Option Period ” is defined in Section 18.1.

Option Territory ” shall mean any country in the world other than ( i ) the Territory, ( ii ) Australia and ( iii ) New Zealand.

Organizational Documents ” shall mean, as to any Person, the certificate of incorporation and bylaws or memorandum and articles of association or other organizational documents of such Person.

 

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Original Territory ” shall mean each of the following countries: ( i ) Canada, ( ii ) Barbados, ( iii ) Israel, ( iv ) Mexico, ( v ) Nassau, The Bahamas, (vi)  St. Barthelemy, (vii)  St. Martin, ( viii ) Turks and Caicos and ( ix ) the United States of America (including the U.S. Virgin Islands).

Other Licensed Mark Claim ” is defined in Section 12.5(c)(i).

Owned Covered Revenue ” shall mean, with respect to any Branded Owned Office, 6% of gross commission income (or, in the event gross commission income is replaced in whole or in part by revenue of another or an equivalent type after the Effective Date in the Residential Real Estate brokerage industry generally, such other or equivalent revenue) of such Branded Owned Office, which gross commission income (or such other or equivalent revenue, as applicable) shall not include ( i ) payments by any Company Affiliate or Branded Owned Office for advertising charges and marketing fees (including by way of example and not of limitation, the National Advertising Fund or NAF, currently maintained by the Licensee Group as of the Effective Date), ( ii ) any revenue Earned from the provision of Authorized Ancillary Services by any such Branded Owned Office and ( iii ) revenue earned by any Branded Owned Office for “principal basis” sales of Residential Real Estate where no commission is earned.

Owned Office ” shall mean a business unit or Person, as applicable, organized as a Residential Real Estate brokerage office, that is owned or held (directly or indirectly) by Licensee or by a Company Affiliate.

Parent ” is defined in the initial caption of this Agreement.

Parent Mark ” shall mean the CENDANT trademark and service mark.

Percentage Increase ” is defined in Section 5.6(b).

Person ” shall mean an individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, trust, unincorporated organization, firm, Governmental Authority or other entity (governmental or private).

Photographs ” is defined in Section 12.2.

Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate ” shall mean a Broker Affiliate of SIR or its Affiliates as of the time immediately prior to the Effective Date.

Prime Rate ” shall mean, at any given time, the prime rate most recently reported by J.P. Morgan Chase, New York, New York (or any successor entity).

Proprietary Materials ” is defined in Section 12.2.

Purchase Agreement ” is defined in the introduction of this Agreement.

Real Estate Referral Services ” shall mean the service of providing a referral with respect to a provider of Authorized Brokerage Services.

 

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Redirection Domain Names ” shall mean the domain names set forth in Part II of Schedule A attached hereto.

Registered Ancillary Services ” shall mean any one or more Authorized Ancillary Services for which Licensor has obtained a certificate of registration of the Licensed Marks from the applicable Governmental Authority in the Territory.

Registered Marks ” shall mean any Licensed Mark that is registered for one or more of the Authorized Services, as set forth in the applicable certificate of registration.

Relocation ” shall mean, with respect to any Sold Owned Office or Corcoran Legacy Office, the relocation of the office facility from which its sales associates and brokers offered and sold Authorized Brokerage Services to another office facility located in the same Covered Geographic Area or a New Market and in which same Covered Geographic Area or New Market the sales associates and brokers of such Sold Owned Office or Corcoran Legacy Office offer and sell Authorized Brokerage Services thereafter.

Residential Real Estate ” shall mean real estate consisting of a residential dwelling (including an apartment within a multi-family building), including leaseholds of dwellings (including the rental and management of properties in vacation and resort markets), cooperatives, condominiums, fractional ownership, manufactured homes, panelized or pre-fabricated housing, undeveloped land, resort, farm and ranch real estate and any other form of real estate for which a residential real estate brokerage license is required under applicable Law, excluding Timeshares.

Review Committee ” is defined in Section 15.1.

Sale Transaction ” is defined in Section 10.4(a).

SIR ” is defined in the introduction of this Agreement.

SIR Legacy Affiliate ” is defined in Section 7.1(e).

Sold Owned Office ” shall mean a residential real estate brokerage office the fee title, leasehold interest or subleasehold interest of which was transferred (directly or indirectly) to Buyer pursuant to the Purchase Agreement.

SIR Mark ” shall mean the SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY trademark and service mark.

Sotheby’s Mark ” shall mean the SOTHEBY’S trademark and service mark.

Subsidiary ” shall mean, with respect to any Person, any Person in which such first Person, directly or indirectly, holds stock or other ownership interests representing ( a ) more than 50% of the voting power of all outstanding stock or ownership interests of such Person or ( b ) the right to receive more than 50% of the net assets of such Person available for distribution to the holders of outstanding stock or ownership interests upon a liquidation or dissolution of such Person.

 

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Superior Offer ” is defined in Section 10.4(c).

Synthesis Agreement ” shall mean the Strategic Partnership Agreement dated as of November 1, 2000, between SIR and Synthesis Realty, LLC.

Taubman Family Member ” shall mean ( i ) A. Alfred Taubman, ( ii ) any of A. Alfred Taubman’s lineal descendants, spouses, lineal descendants of spouses, adopted children or grandchildren, mothers- and fathers-in-law, sons- and daughters-in-law or brothers- and sisters-in-law, ( iii ) the estate of any Person described in clauses (i) and (ii), ( iv ) any trust for the benefit of any Person described in clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) (including the A. Alfred Taubman Restated Revocable Trust (as the same may be amended)), ( v ) any charity, charitable trust or other charitable organization of which any Person described in clauses (i) or (ii) is a director, trustee or officer or ( vi ) any Person, more than 50% of the voting stock, voting securities, partnership interests, limited liability company interests or other beneficial ownership and Control of which is and remains owned and Controlled by one or more Persons described in clauses (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv).

Territory ” shall mean the Original Territory and any country set forth in Schedule C following any exercise of the Option and upon (and subject to) the grant of the license thereunder pursuant to the terms and conditions of Article 18.

Timeshare ” shall mean a commercial arrangement under which a purchaser receives an interest in real property or the right to use an accommodation or amenities related to real properties, or both, for a specified period and on a recurring basis, including in connection with residential and vacation properties.

Timeshare Brokerage Services ” is defined in Section 10.3(a).

Timeshare License ” is defined in Section 10.3(a).

Trademark Usage Guidelines ” shall mean the Trademark Usage Guidelines set forth on Exhibit G hereto.

Transaction Value ” is defined in Section 7.2(a)(i)(B).

UFOC ” shall mean any Uniform Franchise Offering Circular or such other franchise offering documents or circulars that any Person prepares or otherwise uses in connection with the grant of or proposed grant of or offer to grant any franchise.

Unregistered Marks ” shall mean, collectively, the following marks: ( i ) SOTHEBY’S REALTY, ( ii ) SOTHEBY’S REAL ESTATE, ( iii ) SOTHEBY’S REALTOR, ( iv ) SOTHEBY’S REALTORS, and (v)  SOTHEBY’S in combination with words ( A ) denoting realty or real estate and ( B ) words denoting any of the Authorized Ancillary Services (e.g., SOTHEBY’S REALTY TITLE or SOTHEBY’S REALTY MORTGAGE).

 

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Section 1.2. Other Interpretive Provisions .

(a) Except where expressly stated otherwise in this Agreement, the following rules of interpretation apply to this Agreement: ( i ) “either” and “or” are not exclusive and “include”, “includes” and “including” are not limiting; ( ii ) “hereof”, “hereto”, “hereby”, “herein” and “hereunder” and words of similar import when used in this Agreement refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Agreement; ( iii ) “date hereof” refers to the date set forth in the initial caption of this Agreement; ( iv ) “extent” in the phrase “to the extent” shall mean the degree to which a subject or other thing extends, and such phrase does not mean simply “if”; ( v ) definitions contained in this Agreement are applicable to the singular as well as the plural forms of such terms; ( vi ) references to an agreement or instrument mean such agreement or instrument as from time to time amended, modified or supplemented, in each case to the extent not prohibited by such agreement or instrument; ( vii ) references to a Person are also to its permitted successors and assigns; ( viii ) references to an “Article”, “Section”, “Subsection”, “Exhibit” or “Schedule” refer to an Article of, a Section or Subsection of, or an Exhibit or Schedule to, this Agreement; ( ix ) words importing the masculine gender include the feminine or neuter and, in each case, vice versa ; ( x ) references to “$” or otherwise to dollar amounts refer to the lawful currency of the United States; ( xi ) references to a Law include any amendment or modification to such Law and any rules, regulations and delegated legislation issued thereafter, whether such amendment or modification is made, or issuance of such rules, regulations or delegated legislation occurs, before or after the date of this Agreement and ( xii ) any consent or approval of any Person may be granted or withheld in such Person’s sole and absolute discretion.

(b) The parties waive the application of any Law or rule of construction providing that ambiguities in an agreement will be construed against the party drafting such agreement.

ARTICLE II

GRANT OF RIGHTS

Section 2.1. Grant of License .

(a) Pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Licensor hereby grants to Licensee the exclusive right and license, during the term of this Agreement, to use the Licensed Marks (other than the Domain Names) in the Territory solely for the offer and sale of ( i ) Authorized Brokerage Services and ( ii ) subject to Section 2.3, Authorized Ancillary Services (collectively, “ Authorized Services ”), and not in connection with any other product or service of any kind (including any related product or service).

(b) Pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including Section 2.3, Licensor hereby grants to Licensee the exclusive right and license to grant sublicenses, none for a term that extends beyond the then-current term of this Agreement, of the rights and licenses granted pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 2.1(a) solely to any ( i ) Company Affiliate only for so long as it is a Company Affiliate, ( ii ) Owned Office only for so long as it is an Owned Office, ( iii ) Broker Affiliate of Licensee only for so long as it is a Broker Affiliate of Licensee and ( iv ) franchisee of Licensee or any Company Affiliate (other than any franchisee that is a Company Affiliate) that offers and sells Authorized Brokerage Services (“ Franchisee ”)

 

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only for so long as it is a Franchisee, but in each case only for the offer and sale of Authorized Services in the Territory. For the avoidance of doubt, a Company Affiliate that has received a sublicense hereunder may in turn further sublicense the Licensed Marks to any Owned Office, Broker Affiliate or Franchisee set forth in clauses (ii), (iii) or (iv) of the preceding sentence, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

(c) Pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including Section 2.4, Licensor hereby grants to Licensee the exclusive right to use the Licensed Marks (other than the Domain Names) in its or its Affiliates’ corporate, trade or assumed name during the term of this Agreement, and to grant sublicenses of such right to any ( i ) Company Affiliate only for so long as it is a Company Affiliate, ( ii ) Owned Office only for so long as it is an Owned Office, ( iii ) Broker Affiliate of Licensee only for so long as it is a Broker Affiliate of Licensee and ( iv ) Franchisee only for so long as it is a franchisee of Licensee, but in each case only for the offer and sale of Authorized Services in the Territory.

(d) The parties acknowledge that the rights of Licensor in and to the SIR Mark in Israel are pursuant to a sublicense from Sotheby’s (UK), a Licensor Affiliate, for the period from the Effective Date until such time as the registration for the SIR Mark in Israel is transferred to an Eligible SPV pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 10.9.

Section 2.2. License of Domain Names .

(a) Pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Licensor hereby grants to Licensee a license to use, and to sublicense to a Company Affiliate the right to use, during the term of this Agreement, the Domain Names, solely in connection with marketing and promoting the Authorized Services being provided in the Territory by any Branded Operator.

(b) Pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Licensor hereby grants to Licensee a license to use, during the term of this Agreement, the Redirection Domain Names solely for the limited purpose of redirecting users of the Internet who misspell a domain name in a Uniform Resource Locator to another Uniform Resource Locator that is a Domain Name.

(c) The parties acknowledge and agree that insofar as Domain Names are Licensed Marks, any use of the Domain Names, including in connection with any website or other advertising or promotional materials (including electronic mail sent from an electronic mail address associated with the Domain Names) or other content available through the Domain Names, must comply with all restrictions in this Agreement relating to the Licensed Marks, to the extent applicable.

(d) Licensor shall maintain a link on the www.sothebys.com website, to the website at www.sothebysrealty.com. Licensor may include such disclaimers on the www.sothebys.com website or include such intermediary screens to the extent it reasonably considers necessary or advisable under applicable Law to indicate that the www.sothebysrealty.com website is that of the Licensee. Licensee shall reimburse Licensor’s reasonable out-of-pocket expenses resulting from the maintenance of such link, but shall not otherwise be required to compensate Licensor therefor. Unless Licensor shall request the

 

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discontinuation thereof, Licensee shall maintain a link on the www.sothebysrealty.com website, to the website www.sothebys.com. Licensee may include such disclaimers on the www. sothebysrealty.com website or include such intermediary screens to the extent it reasonably considers necessary or advisable under applicable Law to indicate that the www.sothebys.com website is that of the Licensor. Licensor shall reimburse Licensee’s reasonable out-of-pocket expenses resulting from the maintenance of such link, but shall not otherwise be required to compensate Licensee therefor. The Review Committee shall regularly, and not less than once every five years, review this Section 2.2(d) with respect to its practical application to the parties’ businesses and in light of changes in technology, and the Review Committee may propose such amendments to this Section 2.2(d) as it shall deem reasonable and appropriate, such amendments to be subject to the terms and conditions of Section 20.3. For the avoidance of doubt, ( i ) the content included in the www.sothebysrealty.com website shall be owned by Licensee and its Affiliates and ( ii ) Licensor shall remain the owner and registrant with respect to the Domain Names; provided , however , that during the term of this Agreement, Licensee or one of its Affiliates shall be the administrator and administrative, technical and billing contact with the relevant Internet registrar for all purposes with respect to the Domain Names and shall have the right to alter the content of the relevant websites in its sole and absolute discretion, subject to the terms of this Agreement.

(e) With respect to any domain name (if any) registered in the name of SIR as of the time immediately prior to the Effective Date that has not be transferred to a Licensor Affiliate as of, or prior to the Effective Date, Parent shall cause Buyer to execute, acknowledge and deliver all documents, agreements and instruments necessary to transfer to Licensor, and to act in good faith and cooperate with Licensor in connection with the transfer to Licensor of, any such domain name.

Section 2.3. Authorized Ancillary Services .

(a) Pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, Authorized Ancillary Services may be provided under the Licensed Marks by a Branded Operator only to the extent offered as a service ancillary to the provision of Authorized Brokerage Services, and subject to the condition that such Branded Operator does not hold itself out as providing such Authorized Ancillary Services as its principal business or as being a stand-alone provider solely of such Authorized Ancillary Services. Licensee shall cause any materials describing or otherwise relating to the offer or sale of Authorized Ancillary Services by any Branded Operator to include a disclaimer providing that such Authorized Ancillary Services are not provided by Holdings or any Licensor Affiliate.

(b) For purposes of this Agreement, “ Authorized Ancillary Services ” shall mean only the following services: ( i ) relocation, ( ii ) Residential Real Estate title search, ( iii ) Residential Real Estate title insurance, ( iv ) Residential Real Estate appraisal, ( v ) Residential Real Estate closing and Residential Real Estate escrow services and Residential Real Estate mortgage origination, ( vi ) Residential Real Estate mortgage brokerage, ( vii ) Residential Real Estate mortgage banking, ( viii ) home warranties, ( ix ) Real Estate Referral Services, ( x ) Concierge Services and ( xi ) with the consent of Licensor (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld), such additional services that are or become commonly offered or

 

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promoted by high-quality brokers of Residential Real Estate as a service ancillary to the provision of Authorized Brokerage Services.

ARTICLE III

BRANDING AND MARKETING

Section 3.1. Combined Names and Marks .

(a) Generally . Except as expressly permitted by this Agreement, Licensee shall not, and shall cause each of its sublicensees not to, and the licenses and sublicenses granted hereunder and pursuant hereto shall not be deemed to permit, the use of the Sotheby’s Mark or any Licensed Mark, or any derivative thereof, or any confusingly similar Mark, as a Mark by itself or with any other Mark.

(b) Franchise Marks . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 3.1, Licensee shall not, and shall cause each of its sublicensees not to, use any Licensed Mark in combination with any other Mark (other than any Licensed Mark) that is (i)  offered for use by, offered for license (or sublicense) to, or licensed (or sublicensed) to, any Franchisee, or (ii)  offered for use by, or offered for license (or sublicense) to, any prospective Franchisee, by (in the case of both clauses (i) and (ii)) Licensee or any Company Affiliate (including pursuant to a UFOC) (a “ Franchised Mark ”).

(c) Permitted Combinations of Marks .

(i) Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including Section 3.1(c)(ii) and (iii), Licensee and each sublicensee of any Licensed Mark shall be permitted to use any Licensed Mark in combination with any other Mark of Licensee or Company Affiliate or any sublicensee of any Licensed Mark, solely ( x ) in connection with the Authorized Services in the Territory and ( y ) as follows (each such Mark described in (A) and (B) below, an “ Eligible Mark ”):

(A) in certain associations with the Parent Mark as set forth in Exhibit E (and for so long as the Parent Mark is not a Franchised Mark or combined with or embodied in a Franchised Mark); and

(B) subject to Section 3.1(c)(ii), in combination with any Mark of any sublicensee of any Licensed Mark, including any Company Affiliate sublicensee or any Branded Franchisee, that is not the Parent Mark or a Franchised Mark (or combined with or embodied in a Franchised Mark).

(ii) Licensee shall not, and Licensee shall cause each Company Affiliate not to, register, or take any action to effect registration of, any Mark that combines any Licensed Mark with any other Mark; provided , however , that, subject to Section 2.1(c), this clause (ii) shall not be interpreted to prevent Licensee and any Company Affiliate from making such filings with a secretary of state or similar Governmental Authority to establish, or qualify to do business using, a corporate or trade name or assumed name (or d/b/a) consisting of any Licensed Mark.

 

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(iii) With respect to any domain name consisting of any combination of any Licensed Mark with any Eligible Mark pursuant to the terms of Section 3.1(c)(i), the parties acknowledge and agree that ( A ) such domain name shall be subject to Section 2.2(c) with respect to registration and maintenance and ( B ) the respective rights of Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates, on the one hand, and Licensee, the Company Affiliates and their respective sublicensees, on the other hand, to such domain name shall be limited to each of their respective rights, in the case of Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates, in the Licensed Marks, and in the case of Licensee, the Company Affiliates and their respective sublicensees, in the Eligible Marks.

(d) With respect to any use of any Licensed Mark in combination with the Parent Mark, the Corcoran Mark or any other Mark of Licensee or any Company Affiliate (collectively, “ Licensee Group Marks ”) as a combined Mark pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the size of such Licensed Mark (taken as a whole) shall not be smaller relative to the size of such Licensee Group Mark (taken as a whole) with which it is combined as part of a combined Mark.

Section 3.2. Positioning of Brand .

(a) Licensee shall, and shall cause each Company Affiliate and Branded Owned Office, and shall use reasonable efforts to cause each Branded Broker Affiliate and Branded Franchisee, to, ( i ) market, hold out and otherwise position the Authorized Brokerage Services offered under the Licensed Marks, as a leading luxury brand of Residential Real Estate brokerage services. Licensee shall not, and shall not permit any Company Affiliate to, market, hold out or otherwise position any other Mark of the Licensee Group, including any franchise system owned or operated, directly or indirectly, by the Licensee Group, as being associated with more luxurious Residential Real Estate brokerage services or more luxurious Residential Real Estate properties than those offered and sold under the Licensed Marks.

(b) Licensee shall not, and Licensee shall cause each Branded Operator not to, segment or distinguish any Licensed Mark from any other Licensed Mark, or for any Licensed Mark, on the basis of luxury, quality, pre-eminence or similar categorizations, distinctions or brand layering (e.g., “Sotheby’s International Realty Premier” shall be prohibited). The use of a trade or corporate name (including an assumed name or d/b/a) by a Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate that contains a word or name that would be reasonably likely to be interpreted to denote brand segmentation shall not be prohibited by this Section 3.2(b), including by way of example and not of limitation, a Branded Franchisee whose trade name is PREMIER PROPERTIES SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY. No Branded Owned Office or Company Affiliate may have a corporate or trade name or use an assumed name or d/b/a that includes any word or name that, when combined with any Licensed Mark, could be interpreted to denote any brand segmentation prohibited by this Section 3.2(b).

Section 3.3. Alliance Marketing . Subject to Section 3.4, in connection with any proposed agreements between Licensee or any Company Affiliate and any third party pursuant to which Licensee or any Branded Operator would co-market with third-party providers of products or services offered or marketed to home owners or home buyers (or prospective home buyers) (any such Person, a “ Co-Marketer ”) the products or services of such Co-Marketer, including in connection with the Licensee Group’s “alliance marketing program,” Licensee shall only have

 

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the right to include any Licensed Mark in any co-marketing materials created in connection with such agreement with any Co-Marketer if ( a ) the products or services relating to such co-marketing arrangements shall be performed by the Co-Marketer and not by the Licensee or any Branded Operator and ( b ) Licensor has approved such Co-Marketer in advance of any such agreement as provided below. In the event that Licensee or any Company Affiliate proposes to enter into an agreement with any Co-Marketer involving any use of any Licensed Mark, Licensee shall submit to Licensor a written request for approval of such Co-Marketer including a template or mock-up or representative sample demonstrating such intended use, whereupon Licensor may request such additional information as it may reasonably deem relevant to evaluating such request. If Licensor does not object to any proposed Co-Marketer within ten Business Days following receipt of all information requested pursuant to the preceding sentence, Licensor shall be deemed to have approved the proposed Co-Marketer. Licensee shall cause any co-marketing materials to include a disclaimer providing that such Co-Marketer’s products or services are not provided by Holdings, any Licensor Affiliate or any Branded Operator, as applicable, and the use of the Licensed Marks in any co-marketing materials shall comply with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. The right under this Section 3.3 is a right to co-market the Authorized Services with the services or products of an approved Co-Marketer and in no event shall this Section 3.3 be interpreted to expand the scope of the Authorized Services that may be offered and sold under the Licensed Marks.

Section 3.4. Trademark Usage Guidelines .

(a) Any use of a Licensed Mark, including in combination with any other Mark of Licensee, must comply with the Trademark Usage Guidelines ( i ) in all respects relating to the Appearance of any Licensed Mark and ( ii ) otherwise in all material respects, including with respect to the inclusion of all appropriate trademark notices, including the use of the designations ® and sm, as applicable, with the Licensed Marks; provided , however , that solely to the extent that any Licensed Mark is used in a media that does not reasonably permit use in conformity with such Trademark Usage Guidelines (including by way of illustration and not of limitation, use of the Licensed Marks in EDGAR filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission), such use shall not be prohibited by this Section 3.4(a).

(b) Subject to Section 3.4(a) above:

(i) Licensee shall provide Licensor a draft of Licensee’s first Identity Standards Manual that it proposes to include in a UFOC with respect to prospective Branded Franchisees, and which the parties acknowledge may be in a form comparable to the forms of the identity standards manuals that the Licensee Group uses in connection with its other franchisee systems, but must comply with the Trademark Usage Guidelines with respect to the Appearance of any Licensed Mark. Licensor shall review such draft Identity Standards Manual promptly upon receipt, and Licensee acknowledges and agrees that the final Identity Standards Manual included in such UFOC shall be subject to Licensor’s prior approval, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld. To the extent that the Identity Standards Manual approved by Licensor pursuant to the foregoing differs from the Trademark Usage Guidelines, Licensee shall have the right to rely upon and comply with such Identity Standards Manual approved by Licensor as provided herein.

 

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(ii) The Identity Standards Manual approved by Licensor may be amended or supplemented in good faith by Licensee from time to time, provided that any such amendment or supplement complies with the Trademark Usage Guidelines with respect to the Appearance of any Licensed Mark and contains or proposes a change to the Identity Standards Manual that is of a quality equal to or higher, or as or more strict, than the Identity Standards Manual approved by Licensor pursuant to Section 3.4(b)(i).

(c) The words contained in or comprising any Licensed Mark other than the word “Sotheby’s” shall not be smaller in proportion to the word “Sotheby’s” than the approximate proportion of the word “Sotheby’s” with the words “International Realty” as such words appear together in the SIR Mark in the Trademark Usage Guidelines.

(d) This Section 3.4 shall not be deemed to limit or modify any other provision of this Agreement, including with respect to any use of the Licensed Marks.

Section 3.5. Promotional Materials . Subject to Section 3.4, Licensee and their permitted sublicensees shall be permitted to use the Licensed Marks in connection with internal promotional materials for the Authorized Services (examples include clothing, hats, writing implements, mugs and other similar customary marketing materials) that are ( i ) distributed free of charge to any existing or prospective customer of the Authorized Brokerage Services or distributed or sold to any sales associate or employee of any Branded Operator for subsequent distribution free of charge to any existing or prospective customer of the Authorized Brokerage Services, ( ii ) not sold or offered for sale to any person that is not a sales associate or employee of any Branded Operator and ( iii ) subject to the Trademark Usage Guidelines, the Model Provisions and other quality control provisions no less strict than those contained in the Licensee Group’s franchise agreements for Authorized Brokerage Services as in effect on the Effective Date with respect to the use of marks on or in connection with marketing and promotional materials used by Franchisees.

Section 3.6. Government Filings and Investor Relations . Subject to Section 3.4, Licensee and each Company Affiliate is permitted to use any Licensed Mark in or in connection with any filing with any Governmental Authority or stock exchange or any disclosure or materials provided to investors or prospective investors or financial analysts or any materials used for corporate or business matters (including presentation materials) used by Parent, in each case only to the extent that the use permitted by this Section 3.6 is incidental to the operation of the business of providing Authorized Brokerage Services under the Licensed Marks.

Section 3.7. Branded Franchise Marketing

(a) Licensee covenants and agrees that it shall, and it shall cause the applicable Company Affiliates, to spend all advertising charges and marketing payments received from any Branded Franchisees on advertising and marketing promoting the business of such Branded Franchisees. For purposes of the foregoing, the parties acknowledge and agree that such spending of advertising charges and marketing fees is deemed to include spending of such charges and fees for the Licensee Group’s administrative and personnel costs associated with administering the marketing program of the Branded Franchisee franchise system.

 

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(b) Independent of, and without regard to, amounts collected by Licensee or any Company Affiliate from Branded Franchisees for advertising and marketing, Licensee covenants and agrees that it will spend $10,000,000 in cash in calendar year 2005, and that it is its intent to spend $10,000,000 and $5,000,000 in cash in calendar years 2006 and 2007, respectively, in connection with the marketing of the Branded Franchisee system.

Section 3.8. Licensor’s Publications . Licensor covenants and agrees that it will, or will cause the applicable Licensor Affiliates to, accept for publication in its proprietary Preview publication an advertisement from Licensee or from Company Affiliates for Authorized Brokerage Services under any Licensed Mark, which advertisements will be purchased and sold at the then-prevailing rates charged by Licensor to third-party advertisers. The form and presentation of such advertising shall be in Licensor’s sole discretion, including with respect to matters of good taste and the appearance (including as to color, size and other matters) of the Licensed Marks.

Section 3.9. Modification of Sotheby’s Name . In the event that Licensor desires to modify the Sotheby’s Mark or its stylized design with respect to Licensor’s and its Affiliates businesses, Licensor shall provide Licensee with not less than six months’ advance written notice of such change (the “ New Style Notice ”) and the effective date of such change (the “ New Style Date ”), and on the New Style Date each Licensed Mark (including as it is sublicensed by Licensee hereunder) shall be automatically modified accordingly and Licensor’s and its Affiliates use of the Sotheby’s Mark shall also be modified accordingly; provided that modification of the Licensed Marks shall not be required to the extent that the name SOTHEBY’S is changed to include descriptive terms inconsistent with real estate brokerage services (e.g., “Sotheby’s Auction Houses”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Licensor and its Affiliates discontinue all use of the Sotheby’s Mark for a period of at least 12 consecutive months, then Licensee shall have the right to use the Sotheby’s Mark to the extent embodied in each Licensed Mark during the term of this Agreement and pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. As of the New Style Date, all new advertising, marketing materials, signage and any other new representation of each Licensed Mark shall conform to the noticed modifications, provided that for a period of three years from the New Style Date, Licensee and each Branded Operator shall be permitted to use its inventory of marketing materials, signage and other similar materials to the extent in existence as of date of the New Style Notice. The right of Licensor to cause a change to any Licensed Mark pursuant to this Section 3.9 shall be exercisable not more than once in any five-year period during the term.

Section 3.10 . Advertising and Marketing Agents . The parties acknowledge and agree that Licensee’s rights hereunder include the right to allow its agents and the agents of its permitted sublicensees to use the Licensed Marks in the ordinary course of business for the sole and limited purpose of creating and placing marketing and advertising on behalf of Licensee or such permitted sublicensee for the marketing and sale of Authorized Services, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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ARTICLE IV

TERM

Section 4.1. Initial Term . Except as otherwise provided in Sections 4.2 and 4.3, this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and continue, unless earlier terminated, for a term of fifty years ending at 11:59 p.m. on February 16, 2054 (the “ Initial Termination Date ”).

Section 4.2. Renewal Term . Except as otherwise provided in Section 4.3, Licensee shall have the right, exercisable in its sole discretion and subject to Section 4.3, to extend the term of this Agreement for a single additional term of fifty years (the “ Extension Right ”), which Extension Right shall be exercisable at any time on or after February 17, 2049 and prior to the date 180 days prior to the Initial Termination Date, by written notice from Licensee to Licensor. Unless this Agreement has been terminated prior to the date of exercise of such Extension Right, upon timely exercise of the Extension Right, the term of this Agreement shall not terminate as provided in Section 4.1, and shall continue after the Initial Termination Date until 11:59 p.m. on February 16, 2104.

ARTICLE V

FEES

Section 5.1. Fees .

(a) Licensee shall pay to Licensor royalties equal to 9.5% of, without duplication:

(i) Franchisee Covered Revenue Earned by the Licensee Group from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services by any Branded Franchisee (without regard to whether such Branded Franchisee was previously a Broker Affiliate (including a Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate that was terminated or converted into a Branded Franchisee) or Franchisee of Licensee or any Company Affiliate) during the term of this Agreement and during any Franchisee Wind-Down Period pursuant to Section 14.2(a)(iii);

(ii) Franchisee Covered Revenue Earned by the Licensee Group from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services by any Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate during the period commencing on January 1, 2006 (but only to the extent that such Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate has not been terminated or converted into a Branded Franchisee prior to such date) and, thereafter, for the remainder of the term of this Agreement;

(iii) Franchisee Covered Revenue Earned by the Licensee Group from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services by any New Broker Affiliate during the term of this Agreement;

(iv) Owned Covered Revenue Earned by the Licensee Group (excluding the Owned Office referenced in this paragraph) from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services by any Branded Owned Office (or otherwise by Licensee

 

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or any Company Affiliate performing Authorized Brokerage Services under the Licensed Marks) during the term of this Agreement, exclusive of ( A ) any Corcoran Legacy Office that is a Branded Owned Office (except to the extent clause (C) of Section 5.1(a)(vi) applies) and ( B ) any Sold Owned Office;

(v) Owned Covered Revenue Earned by the Licensee Group (excluding the Owned Office referenced in this paragraph) from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services by any Sold Owned Office during the term of this Agreement, solely to the extent Earned by the Licensee Group (excluding the Owned Office referenced in this paragraph) from the performance of the Authorized Brokerage Services (A) by any sales associates or brokers of a Sold Owned Office added after the Effective Date pursuant to a direct or indirect merger, combination or acquisition by or with such Sold Owned Office or (B) in New Markets (excluding any Relocation to a New Market); and

(vi) Owned Covered Revenue Earned by the Licensee Group (excluding the Owned Office referenced in this paragraph) from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services by any Corcoran Legacy Office that is a Branded Owned Office during the term of this Agreement, solely to the extent Earned by the Licensee Group (excluding the Owned Office referenced in this paragraph) from the performance of the Authorized Brokerage Services ( A ) by any sales associates or brokers of a Corcoran Legacy Office added after the Effective Date pursuant to a direct or indirect merger, combination or acquisition by or with such Corcoran Legacy Office, ( B ) in New Markets (excluding any Relocation to a New Market) or ( C ) following the date such Branded Owned Office ceases to use the Corcoran Mark for Authorized Services.

(b) With respect to any Corcoran Legacy Office that is a Branded Owned Office, unless and until any royalties are owed pursuant to Section 5.1(a)(iv) or (vi), Licensee shall pay to Licensor royalties equal to 5% of all Owned Covered Revenue Earned by the Licensee Group (excluding the Owned Office referenced in this paragraph) from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services by such Corcoran Legacy Office that is a Branded Owned Office during the term of this Agreement.

(c) For the avoidance of doubt, with respect to Section 5.1, Owned Covered Revenue or Franchisee Covered Revenue “Earned by the Licensee Group from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services” refers to the royalty fees payable to a member of the Licensee Group with respect to Authorized Brokerage Services by any Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office, as the case may be, not the underlying gross commission income (or other or equivalent revenue) itself of such Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office, as the case may be.

 

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(d) Examples of the basic calculation of the Fee payable to Licensor with respect to Covered Revenue from the performance of Authorized Brokerage Services under Section 5.1 are set forth immediately below, for purposes of illustration only:

Branded Owned Offices:

Example 1: Broker of Branded Owned Office on both sides of transaction *

 

House price sale:

   $ 500,000  

Commission Rate:

     6 % 1

Total Commission (or gross commission income):

   $ 30,000  

Royalty Rate:

     6 %

Total Royalty Recorded by Parent (“Owned Covered Revenue”):

   $ 1,800  

License Agreement Rate:

     9.5 % 2

Fee payable to Licensor:

   $ 171  

Example 2: Broker of Branded Owned Office on single side of transaction

 

House price sale:

   $ 500,000  

Commission Rate:

     3 % 1

Total Commission (or gross commission income):

   $ 15,000  

Royalty Rate:

     6 %

Total Royalty Recorded by Parent (“Owned Covered Revenue”):

   $ 900  

License Agreement Rate:

     9.5 % 2

Fee payable to Licensor:

   $ 85.50  

Branded Franchisee:

Example 3: Franchisee Royalty

 

Total Royalty Recorded by Parent (“Franchisee Covered Revenue”):

   $ 900  

License Agreement Rate:

     9.5 %

Fee payable to Licensor:

   $ 85.50  

Section 5.2. Other Matters Relating to the Determination of Covered Revenue .

(a) Covered Revenue shall include the franchise, broker affiliation or Owned Office royalty or fee payable (in each case net of the amounts included in the definition of “Franchisee Covered Revenue” or “Owned Covered Revenue”, as applicable) with respect to


* Example assumes that the broker is on both the listing and buying side of the relevant transaction.

 

1 Example only, by Law all commissions are negotiable.

 

2 Assumes that the applicable Branded Owned Office is not a Corcoran Legacy Office that is a Branded Owned Office that is subject to the 5% license fee under Section 5.1(b).

 

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sales of personal property made in connection with real estate sales except where such sale of personal property is covered in a transaction separate from the applicable sale of real property (including sales covered under separate bills of sale), which shall be deemed to be excluded from Covered Revenue.

(b) Covered Revenue shall be deemed to include the franchise, broker affiliation or Owned Office royalty or fee payable (in each case net of the amounts included in the definition of “Franchisee Covered Revenue” or “Owned Covered Revenue”, as applicable) with respect to transactions entered into, or sales contracts made, prior to the date of termination of this Agreement irrespective of whether such Covered Revenue is received after the date of termination of this Agreement; provided that, for avoidance of doubt, revenues shall be deemed included in Covered Revenue pursuant to the preceding clause only to the extent such revenues would have constituted Covered Revenue prior to the termination of this Agreement.

(c) In the event that the Licensee Group shall be awarded any damages or shall be paid consideration in settlement of any claim of the Licensee Group, and all or any portion of such award or payment constitutes or is otherwise characterized as being a type of payment that would otherwise constitute Franchisee Covered Revenue (or which is in lieu of, or as compensation for, a payment that would constitute Franchisee Covered Revenue), including any award of damages in lieu of Franchisee royalties or future Franchisee royalties, such portion of such award or payment shall be treated as Franchisee Covered Revenue subject to Section 5.1.

Section 5.3. Payment of Fees .

(a) Fees on Covered Revenue Earned for each calendar quarter (prorated for any shorter period) shall be due and payable on the 15th Business Day after the end of such calendar quarter, in arrears.

(b) Each payment of Fees to Licensor shall be accompanied by a statement, certified by the chief financial officer of the Licensee Brokerage Business, setting forth a reasonably detailed calculation of the Fees and the Covered Revenue corresponding thereto, which statement shall be in substantially the form the parties have agreed to and attached hereto as Exhibit F (the “ Fee Statement ”), with such changes to the form thereof as the parties may agree upon in writing from time to time; provided , however , that in no event shall the form of such Fee Statement be deemed to modify in any respect the terms and conditions of Article 5 or otherwise of this Agreement.

Section 5.4. Late Payment . Any payments of Fees which are not paid by the date such payments are due and payable shall bear interest to the extent permitted by applicable Law at the Prime Rate on the date such payment is due, calculated based on the number of months (pro rated, as necessary) such payment is delinquent; provided that the foregoing shall not limit or otherwise modify any other remedies available to Licensor whether pursuant to this Agreement or at law or equity.

Section 5.5. Method of Payment . All payments to Licensor under this Agreement shall be made by wire transfer of same day funds or check in United States dollars in the requisite amount to such bank account as Licensor may from time to time designate by notice to

 

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Licensee. Payments shall be net of any withholding taxes required by applicable Law. With respect to Fees calculated on Covered Revenue Earned outside the United States upon exercise of the Option, payments shall be calculated based on currency exchange rates for the calendar quarter for which remittance is made for Fees. For each month and each currency, such exchange rate shall equal the arithmetic average of the daily exchange rates (obtained as described below) during the Calendar Quarter; each daily exchange rate shall be obtained from the Reuters Daily Rate Report or, if not so available, from The Wall Street Journal , Eastern United States Edition, or, if not so available, as otherwise agreed by the parties.

Section 5.6. Minimum Fees .

(a) In any case and notwithstanding the foregoing, Licensee shall pay, for each calendar year beginning with the calendar year starting January 1, 2009 (and, at the end of the term for the prorated period, a prorated amount), aggregate Fees (including any true-up payment by Licensee paid by the applicable due dates described in this Section 5.6(a), as needed, to ensure that the Minimum Amount has been satisfied) in an amount not less than the Minimum Amount calculated as of the end of such calendar year. Payment of such minimum Fees shall be made no later than the date on which Fees are due for the last calendar quarter of such calendar year. The final payment of any minimum Fees pursuant to this Section 5.6 shall be due within 60 days following the date of termination of this Agreement (pro rated for the period of the year in which such termination occurs).

(b) “ Minimum Amount ” shall mean $1,500,000, provided that such amount shall be increased as of December 31, 2010 and each December 31 of each subsequent year during the term of this Agreement, by an amount equal to the Percentage Increase of the then-applicable Minimum Amount; provided that such amount shall not exceed $2,000,000. The “ Percentage Increase ” shall be the percentage, if any, by which the Consumer Price Index — All Urban Consumers (or if such ceases to be published, the most reasonably comparable index published by the United States government) increased by the end of the then applicable calendar year from the prior calendar year.

ARTICLE VI

MUTUAL REFERRALS

Section 6.1. Referrals by Licensor .

(a) Licensee agrees to pay to Licensor (or to a Licensor Affiliate designated by Licensor) a fee equal to 30% of any gross commission income per transaction side earned by Licensee or any Company Affiliate from the provision of Authorized Brokerage Services to a third party referred by Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate to the Licensee Group for such Authorized Brokerage Services, provided that such third party is not an Existing Brokerage Lead (it being understood that Licensee shall give first preference in transmitting any such referral to Branded Operators). Any such referral by Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate shall be communicated to Licensee, or to such Company Affiliate as Licensee may from time to time designate to receive such referrals, by written notice to Licensor. An “ Existing Brokerage Lead ” shall mean a Person with whom a broker of a Branded Operator has an existing client

 

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relationship providing Authorized Brokerage Services as of the time Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate made such referral.

(b) Nothing contained in this Section 6.1 shall obligate Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate to make any referral or affirmatively promote the Authorized Brokerage Services of any Branded Operator.

Section 6.2. Referrals by Licensee .

(a) Licensor agrees to pay to Licensee a fee equal to 10% of the gross commission income earned by a Licensor Affiliate from the sale of any property at auction by Holdings, which property is referred to such Licensor Affiliate by Licensee or any Company Affiliate, provided that the property referred to auction by Licensee or a Company Affiliate, as applicable, is not the property of an Existing Auction Client; provided further , that no such fee shall be due to Licensee unless the gross sale price of such property, or such property together with other related properties referred to such Licensor Affiliate in accordance with this Section 6.2(a), is in excess of $100,000. An “ Existing Auction Client ” shall mean a Person with whom a Licensor Affiliate has an existing client relationship with respect to the purchase or sale of property at auction as of the time Licensee or any Company Affiliate made such referral.

(b) Nothing contained herein shall obligate Licensee or any Company Affiliate to make any referral or affirmatively promote the Auction House Business of the Licensor Affiliates.

Section 6.3. Payment of Referral Fees . Payments of any fees under this Article 6 shall be made within 30 days of the payment of the commission or other payment giving rise to a referral fee hereunder and such payment shall be accompanied by a statement setting forth in reasonable detail the calculation of such referral fee, including the amount of the applicable gross commission or other payment and the corresponding referral, and attaching any reasonably requested supporting documentation, which shall be treated confidentially.

ARTICLE VII

QUALITY CONTROL

Section 7.1. Eligible Markets .

(a) Licensee shall have the right to offer and sell the Authorized Services under the Licensed Marks, and to sublicense such right or grant a franchise to a Broker Affiliate, Franchisee or Company Affiliate, including for any Owned Office, in each case only for a geographic area qualifying as an Eligible Market; provided, that in the case of any exercise of the Option, the foregoing requirement shall not apply to any country in the Option Territory for which a license is granted pursuant to such Option exercise.

(b) For purposes hereof, an “ Eligible Market ” shall mean a geographic area in which the median sales price (“ MSP ”) for homes sold in such area during the most recent 12 full calendar months for which data is available immediately prior to ( i ) entering into a Branded Franchise Agreement with a proposed Branded Franchisee or ( ii ) branding the Authorized

 

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Services of a Branded Owned Office with the Licensed Marks, as applicable (the “ Measurement Period ”), is at least 1.5 times the MSP for the United States during the Measurement Period.

(c) The MSPs for the United States shall be determined by Licensee based on data to the extent available provided by a recognized independent publisher of home sale price information (e.g. the National Association of Realtors or Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae)). The MSP for each Covered Geographic Area shall be determined by Licensee based upon data provided by the same source as Licensee used for the foregoing determination with respect to the United States to the extent such data is available from such source and, to the extent that such data is not available from such source, Licensee shall use data that is in Licensee’s good faith business judgment the most comparable to the data used with respect to Licensee’s determination of the MSP for the United States.

(d) Before Licensee shall grant any franchise to a prospective Branded Franchisee, Licensee’s franchise review committee shall, at a minimum, review and consider the following in determining whether to grant such franchise: ( i ) a full and complete franchise application from the prospective franchisee, ( ii ) to the extent available, relevant market data provided by an independent third party, ( iii ) to the extent available, relevant data provided by the Multiple Listing Service covering the applicable geographic area and ( iv ) an on site inspection report submitted by Licensee’s representative.

(e) Each ( i ) Sold Owned Office, ( ii ) Corcoran Legacy Office, ( iii ) Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate and ( iv ) Person that was a broker affiliate of SIR that was terminated by SIR other than for cause, or that exercised a right of termination, during the two years prior to the Effective Date (an “ SIR Legacy Affiliate ”) is deemed to be in an Eligible Market and to satisfy the Guidelines described in Section 7.2 below solely with respect to the Covered Geographic Area in which it offered and sold Authorized Services as of the Effective Date (or in the case of an SIR Legacy Affiliate, as of the time of termination of its broker affiliate agreement with SIR); provided that any Branded Franchise to be granted to an SIR Legacy Affiliate or Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate shall not cover a Covered Geographic Area larger than the Covered Geographic Area provided in such prospective franchisee’s broker affiliate agreement, as in effect as of the Effective Time or as in effect at the time of such termination, as applicable, with SIR, including as modified by any oral agreement or authorized course of dealing.

Section 7.2. Sublicensee Eligibility Guidelines .

(a) In addition to the requirements set forth in Section 7.1, ( x ) prior to granting any franchise to any prospective Branded Franchisee, ( y ) prior to executing any Broker Affiliate Agreement with any prospective Branded Broker Affiliate and ( z ) prior to any Owned Office being branded with any Licensed Mark (including pursuant to any sublicense), Licensee, in determining whether to make such grant or effect such branding, shall take into account the guidelines set forth in clauses (i) and (ii) below (the “ Guidelines ”). Determinations as to whether the Guidelines have been satisfied shall be made by Licensee, in their good faith business judgment, based on such available data as Licensee reasonably deems appropriate. The Guidelines apply to offices of Branded Franchisees, Branded Broker Affiliates and Branded Owned Offices on a company-by-company basis rather than on an office-by-office basis, so that multiple offices operated by a single Person are tested as a whole. Once a Branded Franchisee,

 

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Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office has satisfied the Guidelines it shall be deemed to have satisfied the Guidelines for the term of the License Agreement. The parties acknowledge that the Owned Offices of Buyer and its Subsidiaries and the Pre-Existing Broker Affiliates satisfy the Guidelines for the term of this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in connection with any exercise of the Option, the Guidelines shall not apply to any prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate and Branded Owned Office located outside of the United States, which Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate and Branded Owned Office shall be chosen in Licensee’s sole discretion, provided that, with respect to any Branded Franchisee located outside of the United States, Licensee grants the Branded Franchises pursuant to a master franchisee agreement with a master franchisor the material terms of which master franchise agreement have been presented to Licensor, and such materials terms and such master franchisor are acceptable to Licensor as indicated by it in writing (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld).

A prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office shall satisfy the Guidelines if:

(i) it satisfies any one of the following guidelines for the geographic area (as determined by Licensee) to be covered (the “ Covered Geographic Area ”) by the prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office:

(A) the average selling price (“ ASP ”) for homes sold or purchased by the customers of such prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office in transactions brokered by such prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office in the Covered Geographic Area during the Measurement Period is in the top 40% of selling prices for all homes sold in the Covered Geographic Area; or

(B) during the Measurement Period, such prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office ranked in the top 40% in terms of home purchases or sales brokered in the Covered Geographic Area based on the aggregate sales price of residential real estate transactions actually closed (the “ Transaction Value ”); or

(C) such prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office is ranked first, second or third in the Covered Geographic Area in terms of ( 1 ) highest ASP for homes sold or purchased during the Measurement Period in the Covered Geographic Area or ( 2 ) highest Transaction Value for homes sold or purchased in the Covered Geographic Area during the Measurement Period; or

(D) such prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office owns or operates a newly formed residential brokerage office, which office is or will be composed of agents substantially all of whom, immediately prior to the time the office would become a Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office, were affiliated with a licensed broker that would have satisfied the guidelines in one of clauses (A), (B) or (C) of this Section 7.2(a)(i) with respect to the Measurement Period; or

 

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(ii) it does not satisfy any of the guidelines set forth in Section 7.2(a)(i) but such prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office, together with all Franchisees that became Branded Franchisees, all Broker Affiliates that became Branded Broker Affiliates and all Owned Offices that became Branded Owned Offices during the immediately preceding Measurement Period and who became eligible pursuant this clause (ii) (and not pursuant to Section 7.2(a)(i)), would not represent more than 10% of the total number of all prospective Branded Franchisees, Branded Broker Affiliates or Branded Owned Offices, taken together, that became Branded Franchisees, Branded Broker Affiliates or Branded Owned Offices, respectively, during the Measurement Period.

(b) With respect to the renewal by Licensee or its sublicensee of any Branded Franchise Agreement with a then-existing Branded Franchisee or any Broker Affiliate Agreement with a then-existing Branded Broker Affiliate, in each case during the term of this Agreement, Licensee shall use reasonable efforts to apply the Guidelines; provided , however , that any renewals of such existing Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate shall be at Licensee’s sole discretion; and provided further , that in the event a then existing Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate (other than a Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate) was granted a franchise pursuant to Section 7.2(a)(ii), the renewal of any such Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate shall be subject to the satisfaction of the Guidelines pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 7.2, including Section 7.2(a)(ii).

(c) If the Covered Geographic Area covered by the Branded Franchisee changes to include new offices of such Branded Franchisee located outside of the Eligible Market, then Licensee shall be permitted to expand the Covered Geographic Area to include such new offices if such expanded Covered Geographic Area satisfies the requirements of an Eligible Market at the time of such expansion.

(d) Licensee shall provide to Licensor, on a quarterly basis, a report containing ( i ) the number of Branded Franchises granted and the number of sublicenses granted to Branded Owned Offices and Branded Broker Affiliates during the prior quarter and the corresponding Covered Geographic Area and ( ii ) brief general descriptive information with respect to the business of each such new Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate and Branded Owned Office and ( iii ) such other information as Licensor reasonably requests. Semiannually for the first three years of the term of this Agreement, and thereafter on an annual basis, at Licensor’s option, the parties shall meet in person to discuss the general process by which Licensee determines prospective Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Owned Office eligibility and related matters.

Section 7.3. Quality Control Standards With Respect To Owned Operations .

(a) Licensee shall, and shall cause any Company Affiliate that is a sublicensee hereunder (including any Branded Owned Office) to:

(i) not make or publish any statement or advertisement which would reasonably be expected to be construed to demean the image, value, identity, reputation or goodwill associated with the Sotheby’s Mark or any Licensed Mark;

 

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(ii) advertise only in a manner that is professional, dignified and not intentionally misleading;

(iii) conduct its business in a manner that complies with ( A ) the terms of this Agreement, ( B ) the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS and ( C ) the provisions of the Model Code of Ethics; and

(iv) not provide any Excluded Service under any Licensed Mark.

(b) Licensee shall, and shall cause each Company Affiliate who is a sublicensee of any Licensed Mark to, comply with the terms of this Agreement.

Section 7.4. Quality Control Standards With Respect To Affiliated and Franchised Operations .

(a) In connection with the development of certain supplemental quality control standards established by this Article 7 and elsewhere in this Agreement, the parties acknowledge and express their respective intentions that the provision of the Authorized Services under the Licensed Marks, whether by Licensee or any of its sublicensees (including any Branded Operator), conform to the standards currently employed by Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates and the expectations of the prospective customers of Authorized Services offered and sold under the Licensed Marks as to consistency and quality of the residential real estate brokerage services. The parties have reviewed together their respective operations in the residential real estate brokerage business with respect to the maintenance of quality control. In connection with the foregoing, Licensor has identified and developed Model Provisions for the purpose of maintaining the quality of the Authorized Services provided under the Licensed Marks pursuant to this Agreement at a high-level of quality commensurate with Licensor’s standards of quality existing as of the Effective Date and the standards applicable to the Licensee Brokerage Business pursuant to Section 7.3. Licensee covenants and agrees that any sublicense to use any Licensed Mark granted by Licensee or any Company Affiliate, as sublicensees, to any Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Franchisee (including as contained in any affiliation agreement or Franchise Agreement) shall:

(i) include a code of ethics no less strict than the Model Code of Ethics;

(ii) include specific provisions with respect to the maintenance of the high quality of the Authorized Services provided under the Licensed Marks, which provisions shall be no less strict than the Model Quality Control Provisions; and

(iii) not include any provision in conflict with any term of this Agreement applicable to Branded Broker Affiliates or Branded Franchisees.

(b) Licensee covenants and agrees to enforce diligently, in its reasonable judgment and in good faith, each agreement granting a sublicense to any Licensed Mark to any Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Franchisee, including any Broker Affiliate Agreement or Branded Franchise Agreement.

 

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(c) Licensee acknowledges that its compliance, and the compliance of each of its sublicensees, including any Branded Operator, with the quality control provisions of Section 7.3 and this Section 7.4, is essential to preserve the goodwill of the Licensed Marks and the integrity of the Authorized Services.

Section 7.5. Excluded Services by Branded Operators; Prohibition on Co-Mingling Marks .

(a) Licensee is not prohibited by this Agreement from authorizing or permitting any Branded Operator to provide any Excluded Service provided that such Excluded Service is not ( i ) provided or offered to the public under any Licensed Mark, (ii) provided or offered to the public in any way inconsistent with the terms of the Model Co-Mingling Provisions or ( iii ) otherwise provided or offered to the public in any way that could reasonably be expected to cause confusion that any Excluded Service is designated as being provided under any Licensed Mark.

(b) Licensee covenants and agrees that any agreement between Licensee or any Company Affiliate, on the one hand, and any Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate, on the other hand, and any sublicense of any Licensed Mark to any Branded Owned Office, will contain terms and conditions requiring standards for the separation of any Excluded Service from the offer and sale of any Authorized Service under any Licensed Mark, which provisions will be no less strict than the Model Co-Mingling Provisions.

Section 7.6. Uniform Franchise Offering Circular . With respect to any UFOC that includes or is proposed to include or otherwise relate to a sublicense of any Licensed Mark, such UFOC shall state that such sublicense is granted pursuant to and as authorized by this Agreement, and Licensee shall reference in such UFOC the terms and conditions of this Agreement to the extent Licensee determines to be reasonably necessary or appropriate under applicable Law.

Section 7.7. Termination of Relationship .

(a) Any sublicense to any Branded Owned Office granted pursuant to Section 2.1(b) shall automatically and immediately terminate in the event that the sublicensee ceases to be an Owned Office of Licensee; provided that the foregoing shall not prohibit the Person constituting, owning or acquiring any such Branded Owned Office from offering and selling Authorized Services under the Licensed Marks thereafter pursuant to a Branded Franchise Agreement or any other sublicense of the Licensed Marks, including a Branded Broker Affiliate Agreement, pursuant to this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, this Section 7.7(a) is not intended by the parties to limit the terms and conditions of Section 17.2.

(b) Any sublicense to any Branded Franchisee or Broker Affiliate granted pursuant to Section 2.1(b) shall automatically and immediately terminate upon termination of each Branded Franchise Agreement between such Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate and Licensee or any Company Affiliate, except to the extent of any post-termination wind-down period provided in the terms of the applicable Branded Franchise or Broker Affiliate Agreement and then solely for the duration of such wind-down period (during which time, for

 

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the avoidance of doubt, the Franchisee Covered Revenue Earned from the performance of the Authorized Brokerage Services by such Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate shall be subject to Article 5).

Section 7.8. Notice of Breach . Licensee shall promptly deliver to Licensor notice of any material breach with respect to breaches of the quality control standards contained herein by ( a ) any Licensee of the terms and conditions of this Agreement or ( b ) to the extent known to Licensee, any sublicensee of any Licensed Mark of the terms and conditions of any such sublicensee’s agreement, including any Branded Franchise Agreement and Branded Broker Affiliate Agreement, that are contemplated by this Article 7 to be included therein.

Section 7.9. Sample Uses of Licensed Marks .

(a) Licensee shall periodically deliver to Licensor, upon Licensor’s request, representative samples of promotional materials, including those produced by or on behalf of Licensee or any Company Affiliate, that embody Licensed Marks.

(b) Licensee shall periodically submit to the Licensor Liaison, upon Licensor’s request, representative samples in all applicable media of uses of any Licensed Mark, including labels, signs and advertising and promotional materials embodying any Licensed Mark (including television and radio advertising, print advertising, on-line advertising (including home pages)).

ARTICLE VIII

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

Section 8.1. Representation and Warranties of Holdings and Licensor . Holdings and Licensor represents and warrants to Licensee as follows:

(a) Authority; Validity . Each of Holdings and Licensor is a corporation validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the state of its incorporation. Each of Holdings and Licensor has the corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereunder. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by Holdings and Licensor and the consummation by Holdings and Licensor of the transactions contemplated hereunder, have been duly and validly authorized by Holdings and Licensor, and no other corporate proceedings on the part of Holdings or Licensor are necessary to authorize this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereunder. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by Holdings and Licensor, and, assuming due execution and delivery by Parent and Licensee, constitutes a valid and binding obligations of Holdings and Licensor enforceable against Holdings and Licensor in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by any bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance or similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).

 

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(b) No Conflict; Government Consents .

(i) Neither the execution, delivery or performance by Holdings and Licensor of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and compliance by Holdings and Licensor with any of the provisions hereof will: ( x ) violate any provision of any Organizational Document of Holdings or Licensor, ( y ) require any consent, approval or notice under, violate or result in the violation of, conflict with or result in a breach of any provisions of, constitute a default (or an event which, with notice or lapse of time or both, could reasonably be expected to constitute a default) under, result in the termination of, result in a right of termination of, any material contractual obligation of Holdings or Licensor (other than such consents as have already been obtained), or ( z ) violate any material Law of the United States applicable to Holdings or Licensor.

(ii) No material consent, order or authorization of, or registration, declaration or filing with, any Governmental Authority is required to be obtained or made by Licensor in connection with the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby that has not been obtained or made.

(c) Litigation . There is no Litigation brought by or against Holdings or Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate or any of their respective assets or businesses pending or, to the knowledge of Licensor, threatened against Holdings, Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate which seeks to prevent consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or which seeks damages in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby, and no temporary restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or other order or decree which prevents consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby has been issued against Holdings, Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate.

(d) SIR Mark . Licensor is the sole and exclusive owner of the SIR Mark in the United States. Licensor has the valid right to use the SIR Mark in the Domain Names in the United States. To the knowledge of Licensor, the use of the SIR Mark by Licensee for the offer and sale of Authorized Brokerage Services in the United States and Israel will not infringe on the intellectual property rights of any third party. Schedule 8.1(d) sets forth a complete and accurate list of all registrations as of the Effective Date of the Licensed Marks in the United States and Israel and such registrations are valid and subsisting and in full force and effect as of the Effective Date. Except as set forth in Schedule 3.11(b) to the Purchase Agreement, there is no material Litigation pending or, to the knowledge of Licensor, threatened, and Licensor has not received or sent any written notice of a claim or suit, ( x ) alleging that the SIR Mark infringes upon or otherwise violates any intellectual property rights of any third party in the Original Territory or ( y ) challenging the ownership, use, validity or enforceability of, or application or registration for, the SIR Mark in the Original Territory. Licensor has the full power to license the SIR Mark in the United States, and to sublicense the SIR Mark in Israel, for use in connection with the Authorized Brokerage Services pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Except with respect to ( i ) any license of any Licensed Mark pursuant to any agreement with a Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate, ( ii ) any license or sublicense of any Licensed Mark granted to any agent of any Licensor Affiliate in the ordinary course of business for the sole and limited purpose of creating and placing marketing and advertising on behalf of such

 

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Licensor Affiliate and ( iii ) the Synthesis Agreement, Licensor has not licensed the Licensed Marks to any Person as of the Effective Date other than pursuant to this Agreement.

Section 8.2. Representations and Warranties of Parent and Licensee . Parent and Licensee jointly and severally represent and warrant to Licensor as follows:

(a) Authority; Validity . Each of Parent and Licensee is a corporation validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the state of its incorporation. Each of Parent and Licensee has the corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereunder. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by Parent and Licensee and the consummation by Parent and Licensee of the transactions contemplated hereunder, have been duly and validly authorized by Parent and Licensee, and no other corporate proceedings on the part of Parent or Licensee are necessary to authorize this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereunder. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by Parent and Licensee, and, assuming due execution and delivery by Holdings and Licensor, constitutes a valid and binding obligation of Parent and Licensee enforceable against Parent and Licensee in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by any bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance or similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).

(b) No Conflict; Government Consents .

(i) Neither the execution, delivery or performance by Parent and Licensee of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and compliance by Parent and Licensee with any of the provisions hereof will: ( x ) violate any provision of any Organizational Document of Parent or Licensee, ( y ) require any consent, approval or notice under, violate or result in the violation of, conflict with or result in a breach of any provisions of, constitute a default (or an event which, with notice or lapse of time or both, could reasonably be expected to constitute a default) under, result in the termination of, result in a right of termination of, any material contractual obligation of Parent or Licensee (other than such consents as have already been obtained), or ( z ) violate any material Law of the United States applicable to Parent or Licensee.

(ii) No material consent, order or authorization of, or registration, declaration or filing with, any Governmental Authority is required to be obtained or made by Parent or Licensee in connection with the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby that has not been obtained or made.

(c) Litigation . There is no Litigation brought by or against Parent or Licensee or any Company Affiliate or any of their respective assets or businesses pending or, to the knowledge of Parent or Licensee, threatened against Parent or Licensee or any Company Affiliate (i) which seeks to prevent consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or which seeks damages in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby or (ii) which was required by applicable Law to be described in Parent’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K

 

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filed with the Securities Exchange Commission or in any registration statement, report, schedule, form, statement or other document filed by Parent with the Securities Exchange Commission since the filing of such Form 10-K, and was not so described therein. There is no temporary restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or other order or decree which prevents consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby has been issued against Parent, License or any Company Affiliate.

ARTICLE IX

RECORDS; AUDITS AND INSPECTIONS

Section 9.1. Maintenance of Records .

(a) Licensee shall, and shall cause the Company Affiliates to, maintain accurate books, records and accounts, including financial and accounting records (including by using commercially reasonable efforts to cause each of their independent accountants to retain their working papers) relating to the offer and sale of the Authorized Services, directly or indirectly, by Licensee or any Company Affiliate, including any Branded Owned Office and any Branded Broker Affiliate and Branded Franchisee, the determination of any Fees and referral fees pursuant to this Agreement, and the general process followed by Licensee to confirm compliance by Licensee and any sublicensee of any Licensed Mark with the quality control provisions set forth in Article 7 (such books, records and accounts, collectively, the “ Covered Books and Records ”).

(b) The Covered Books and Records shall be maintained in accordance with Parent’s applicable document retention policy (including as to length of retention).

Section 9.2. Right of Inspection and Audit .

(a) Licensor shall be permitted, during the term of this Agreement and for a period of three years following any termination of this Agreement (or longer to the extent of any applicable statute of limitations or any dispute hereunder), no more than twice in any twelve-month period, to inspect and conduct an audit of the Covered Books and Records relating to the determination of the Fees and referral fees due hereunder. During an inspection or audit, at Licensor’s expense, Licensor shall have the right to make copies or extracts of the Covered Books and Records.

(b) Licensor shall be permitted, during the term of this Agreement and for a period of two years following any termination of this Agreement (or longer to the extent of any applicable statute of limitations or any dispute hereunder), no more than twice in any twelve month period, to meet with Licensee’s officers, employees and applicable agents and representatives for the purpose of reviewing Licensee’s compliance with the quality control provisions of this Agreement, including Sections 7.3 and 7.4.

(c) Licensor shall provide Licensee with not less than 20 days’ advance written notice of any inspection and audit or meeting conducted pursuant to this Section 9.2. Access to Licensee’s facilities in connection with any inspection and audit or meeting conducted pursuant to this Section 9.2 shall be during regular business hours. Licensee shall reasonably

 

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cooperate with, and shall not cause any interference with, any inspection and audit or meeting conducted pursuant to this Section 9.2.

(d) Licensor shall, and cause each Licensor Affiliate and each of their representatives and agents to, keep confidential all proprietary and confidential information that is obtained by Licensor pursuant to this Section 9.2 other than information ( i ) which is generally available to the public at the time it is provided to Licensor or thereafter becomes generally available to the public (other than as a result of disclosure by Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate or any of their representatives or agents), ( ii ) which was available to Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate prior to it being furnished to Licensor pursuant to this Section 9.2, ( iii ) is or becomes available to Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate from a Person other than Licensee or any Company Affiliate or any of their representatives or agents, provided such Person shall not be known by Licensor to be in breach of its obligations to keep confidential such information or ( iv ) was or is independently developed by Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate or others on any of their behalf without recourse to or reliance upon Confidential Information (the “ Confidential Information ”); provided , however , that Licensor and any Licensor Affiliate and any of their representatives and agents may disclose any Confidential Information to the extent such disclosure is required by applicable Law or stock market rule, subject (other than in the case of disclosure pursuant to applicable corporation or securities Laws or regulations of any securities exchange) to prior written notice to Licensee and cooperation with Licensee to obtain a protective order or similar confidentiality arrangement, if available. The covenant set forth in this Section 9.2(d) shall terminate with respect to any Confidential Information one year after the disclosure of such Confidential Information to Licensor under this Section 9.2.

Section 9.3. Payment Deficiency .

(a) Except as otherwise provided in Section 9.3(b), the expenses of any inspection and audit conducted pursuant to Section 9.2 shall be borne by Licensor (which shall not include reimbursement of Licensee’s internal or third-party expenses).

(b) If the aggregated Fees and referral fees actually paid by Licensee pursuant to Articles 5 and 6 are less than the aggregated Fees and referral fees that Licensee was required to pay pursuant to Articles 5 and 6, then Licensee shall promptly (and in no event later than five days following such determination of such payment deficiency) pay to Licensor the amount of such payment deficiency (together with interest from the date originally due to the extent permitted by applicable Law at the Prime Rate on the date such payment was originally due).

ARTICLE X

SPECIAL COVENANTS AND AGREEMENTS

Section 10.1. Registration of Marks .

(a) At the request of Licensee, from time to time during the term of this Agreement, Licensor shall use commercially reasonable efforts to file a trademark or domain name registration (or similar or successor electronic address mechanism or system) application for:

(i) the use of any Licensed Mark solely for Authorized Services (as designated by Licensee) in the Territory, in each case in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, to the extent not already expressly covered by any existing registration of such Licensed Mark; or

 

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(ii) the use of any Licensed Mark or Unregistered Mark solely for Authorized Services (as designated by Licensee) in any country in the Option Territory (as designated by Licensee).

(b) Upon or following any such request by Licensee, Licensee shall prepare (at Licensee’s expense) and deliver to Licensor a trademark registration application in a form suitable for filing by Licensor with the applicable Governmental Authority in connection with such requested registration.

(c) Subject to the ultimate control and authority of Licensor with respect to the form and content of the registration application in all respects, within 10 days following receipt of such trademark application from Licensee, Licensor shall file a trademark registration application with respect to such requested registration, with such changes to such trademark registration application as Licensor determines appropriate in its reasonable discretion. Licensee shall promptly reimburse Licensor for all filing fees and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) incurred in connection with the preparation, filing and prosecution of any such trademark registration application.

(d) Licensor shall promptly forward to Licensee copies of all communications received from the applicable Governmental Authority with whom the trademark registration application was filed and shall otherwise reasonably cooperate with Licensee (at Licensee’s expense) with respect to the prosecution and maintenance of all applications and registrations for Licensed Marks.

Section 10.2. Compliance with Laws . Licensee shall, and shall cause each sublicensee and Branded Owned Office and Company Affiliate to, comply in all material respects with all Laws applicable to the Authorized Services conducted under any Licensed Mark, including all Laws relating to franchisors and franchisees. Licensee shall be responsible for complying with all requirements of Law relating to required franchise disclosure statements (including their preparation) and applicable filing requirements and shall ensure that such franchise disclosure statements (and any oral or written statements made in connection therewith) comply in all material respects with applicable Laws.

Section 10.3. Right of First Offer With Respect To Timeshare Brokerage Services .

(a) Prior to licensing the Sotheby’s Mark to any third party for use in marketing and selling real estate brokerage services in connection with Timeshares in the Territory (“ Timeshare Brokerage Services ”), Licensor shall deliver to Licensee a notice (the “ First Offer Notice ”) advising Licensee that it may make an offer to Licensor to acquire a license to offer and sell Timeshare Brokerage Services under the Licensed Marks in the Territory (a “ Timeshare License ”).

 

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(b) Upon receipt of a First Offer Notice, Licensee shall have 60 days to make such an offer. Licensor shall not be under any obligation to accept or negotiate any offer so received from Licensee and may reject any such offer in its sole discretion. Licensor shall be free, for a period of one year after giving such opportunity to make an offer to Licensee, to enter into any arrangement with any third party on any terms with respect to a Timeshare License.

Section 10.4. Right of First Offer With Respect To Licensee Brokerage Business .

(a) Prior to selling all or substantially all of the business of Licensee and the Company Affiliates with respect to this Agreement and of any Company Affiliate that is a Branded Operator (such business all taken as a whole) (as it exists on the date of such sale), directly or indirectly, in one or more related transactions, to any Person who is not a Company Affiliate, whether by asset sale, stock sale, merger or combination of any entity with any entity Controlled by a Person who is not a Company Affiliate, or any similar transaction, or any combination of any such transactions (a “ Sale Transaction ”), or offering, directly or indirectly, a Sale Transaction to any Person who is not a Company Affiliate, Parent shall deliver to Licensor a notice (the “ Licensor Offer Notice ”) advising Licensor that it may make an offer to Parent to acquire the Licensee Brokerage Business.

(b) Upon receipt of a Licensor Offer Notice, Licensor shall have 120 days (the “ Offer Period ”) to make a bona fide offer to acquire the Licensee Brokerage Business pursuant to a Sale Transaction (the “ Offer ”), which shall include the proposed consideration and other material terms and conditions of Licensor’s proposed acquisition of the Licensee Brokerage Business. If Licensor does not deliver a Offer during the Offer Period, then, during the 120 days following the last day of the Offer Period, Parent may offer a Sale Transaction to any Person who is not a Company Affiliate, and during such 120-day period consummate any such Sale Transaction.

(c) If Licensor delivers a Offer within the Offer Period, then Parent shall have 120 days following the date of receipt of such Offer to solicit offers from third parties to acquire the Licensee Brokerage Business pursuant to a Sale Transaction. If, by the end of such 120-day period, Parent has not received a bona fide firm and binding written offer from a third party that Parent reasonably determines in its good faith judgment to have a higher value and to be otherwise more favorable for Parent than the value of the Offer, then Parent may accept the Offer and use its reasonable best efforts to consummate a Sale Transaction on the terms of the Offer as soon as reasonably practicable. If, during such 120-day period, Parent receives a bona fide firm and binding written offer from a third party that Parent reasonably determines in its good faith judgment to have a higher value and to be otherwise more favorable for Parent than the value of the Offer (a “ Superior Offer ”), then Parent may, only during the 120 day period following receipt of such offer, consummate a Sale Transaction on the terms of the Superior Offer only with the third party who made such Superior Offer. If Parent does not consummate a Sale Transaction during such 120-day period, then Parent may not consummate any Sale Transaction or offer any Sale Transaction to any Person who is not a Company Affiliate without first complying anew with this Section 10.4.

Section 10.5. Certain Trademark Filings . Following the Effective Date, Licensor shall have the right to make any filings related to this Agreement and the performance of the

 

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parties’ obligations and rights hereunder that are required or advisable pursuant to applicable Law in any jurisdiction within the Territory, and Licensee shall cooperate with and reasonably assist Licensor in connection therewith, including in connection with withdrawing any filings upon termination of this Agreement.

Section 10.6. Further Assurances . From and after the Effective Date, upon the terms of this Agreement and subject to applicable Law, Licensor and Licensee shall act in good faith and shall cooperate with each other and use their commercially reasonable efforts to, as soon as reasonably practicable, ( i ) take, or cause to be taken, all actions, ( ii ) execute, acknowledge and deliver all documents, agreements and instruments and ( iii ) perform such other acts and do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable, in each case to confer on each party the rights, benefits and obligations provided by, and to consummate and make effective the transactions contemplated by, this Agreement as soon as practicable.

Section 10.7. Prohibition on Auction House Business .

(a) Licensee shall not, and Licensee shall cause each Branded Owned Office and Company Affiliate not to enter into an affiliation, license or similar agreement with respect to real estate brokerage services with a third party Auction House, in each case in the Territory or any other country in the world, other than Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate.

(b) Licensee shall not, and Licensee shall cause each Company Affiliate not to, use any Licensed Mark in combination with the word “auction” or any word denoting an auction, or any derivation of the word “auction”, in any corporate or trade name or assumed name or d/b/a or in any Mark under which any Authorized Service is offered or sold.

(c) Licensee shall require, in each Branded Franchise Agreement and each Broker Affiliate Agreement with a Branded Broker Affiliate, that the Branded Franchisee or Branded Broker Affiliate, as applicable, will not use any Licensed Mark in combination with the word “auction” or any word denoting an auction, or any derivation of the word “auction”, in any corporate or trade name or assumed name or d/b/a or in any Mark under which any Authorized Service is offered or sold.

Section 10.8. Acknowledgement of SIR Rights . It is understood and agreed by the parties, and Parent and Licensee acknowledge, that any license or sublicense of the Sotheby’s Mark, any Licensed Mark or any other trademark or service mark from any Licensor Affiliate to SIR, or any agreement relating to any such matter, is hereby terminated and of no further force and effect, effective as of the Effective Date, and each of Parent and Licensee agree that they will, and will cause the Company Affiliates to, execute such further documents and take such further actions as may be necessary to further evidence or give further effect to the termination of any such license, sublicense or agreement.

Section 10.9. Establishment of SPV; Transfers and Pledge .

(a) Licensor shall, within 60 days of the Effective Date, have ( i ) established an Eligible SPV, ( ii ) assigned to such Eligible SPV ( A ) all registrations for any Licensed Marks for which registration has been obtained by Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate in the Original Territory, ( B ) all sublicenses of any Licensed Mark for which Licensor is a

 

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sublicensee in the Original Territory and ( C ) all other rights that Licensor has in and to the Licensed Marks in the Original Territory, and ( iii ) assigned its rights and obligations under this Agreement to such Eligible SPV (and such Eligible SPV shall have executed and delivered to Licensee an instrument acknowledging its assumption of Licensor’s rights and obligations under this Agreement and its agreement to be bound by the terms and conditions of this Agreement as Licensor); provided , however , that with respect to the registration for the SIR Mark in Israel, Licensor shall have the right to establish an Eligible SPV to hold such registration in any jurisdiction permitted under Section 18(d), provided further that such Eligible SPV executes and delivers to Licensee the instrument contemplated in the preceding clause (iii).

(b) During such 60-day period, Licensor and Licensee, negotiating in good faith with each other, shall prepare and execute a pledge agreement providing for the grant by the Eligible SPV of a first priority security interest in the Licensed Marks, which agreement shall secure the performance by Licensor of its obligation under this Agreement to license the Licensed Marks to Licensee in the Territory and providing that that the pledgee will be able to exercise its remedies under the lien only upon the occurrence of, “any material failure of Licensor, in breach of the provisions of the License Agreement, to license the Licensed Marks to the Licensee in the Territory, which failure prevents the Licensee from being able to use the Licensed Marks in the Territory as contemplated under the License Agreement.”

(c) In connection with any assignment of this Agreement to an Eligible SPV, Holdings covenants and agrees that it will cause such Eligible SPV to maintain appropriate corporate formalities.

Section 10.10. Synthesis Acknowledgement . It is understood and agreed by the parties that the Synthesis Agreement is in effect as of the Effective Date and that, notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, neither the existence of the Synthesis Agreement, nor the performance of the obligations by either party thereunder pursuant to the terms and conditions thereof, including the grant of the sublicense of the SIR Mark thereunder, shall constitute a breach of the terms and conditions of this Agreement or otherwise be prohibited by this Agreement.

ARTICLE XI

EXCLUSIVITY; NON-COMPETITION

Section 11.1. Exclusivity . (a) During the period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the date of termination of this Agreement (and not extending into any Franchise Wind-Down Period), Holdings and Licensor shall not, and shall cause the Licensor Affiliates (for so long as they remain Licensor Affiliates) not to, use, or grant to any other Person, the right or license to use, anywhere in the Territory or in the Option Territory, ( i ) the Sotheby’s Mark or the name “Sotheby’s” or any derivative thereof or any confusingly similar Mark (other than any Licensed Mark), for any Authorized Brokerage Services, Authorized Ancillary Services or any service described in the definition of Excluded Services, other than Timeshare Brokerage Services and sales of Artistically Significant Residences in auction format, which shall not be prohibited by this Section 11.1 or ( ii ) any Licensed Mark.

 

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(b) During the period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the date of termination of this Agreement, Holdings and Licensor shall not, and Holdings shall cause the Licensor Affiliates (for so long as they remain Licensor Affiliates) not to, sell, dispose or otherwise transfer to any Person any Licensed Mark; provided , however , that the Licensed Marks may, at any time and from time to time, be transferred to an Eligible SPV, provided that ( i ) Licensor’s rights and obligations under this Agreement are assigned to such Eligible SPV, ( ii ) such Eligible SPV shall execute an instrument acknowledging its assumption of Licensor’s rights and obligations under this Agreement and its agreement to be bound by the terms and conditions of this Agreement as Licensor and ( iii ) such Eligible SPV executes and delivers to Licensee a pledge agreement substantially similar to the pledge agreement executed by Licensor pursuant to Section 10.9(b).

Section 11.2. Non-Competition .

(a) During the period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the date that is 10 years following the Effective Date (the “ Non-Compete Period ”), neither Licensor nor Holdings shall, and Holdings shall cause its Subsidiaries (for so long as they remain its Subsidiaries) not to, directly or indirectly, engage, in the Territory, in the Authorized Brokerage Services, other than (i) sales of Artistically Significant Residences in auction format and ( ii ) in the performance of its obligations under this Agreement. If the foregoing, or any portion thereof, shall for any reason be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining portions thereof shall not be affected or impaired thereby and such remaining portions shall remain in full force and effect. Moreover, if any provision shall be held to be excessively broad as to duration, activity or subject, such provision shall be construed by limiting and reducing it so as to be enforceable to the maximum extent allowable by applicable Law.

(b) During the period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the date that is three years following the Effective Date, neither Licensor nor Holdings shall, and Holdings shall cause its Subsidiaries (for so long as they remain Subsidiaries) not to, directly or indirectly:

(i) cause or attempt to cause any employee of Licensee and any of its Affiliates, in each case who was an employee of SIR as of the Effective Date to terminate his or her employment with the Licensee and any of its Affiliates or otherwise engage or participate in any effort to induce any such employee to terminate his or her employment with the Licensee and any of its Affiliates; or

(ii) hire, or solicit or attempt to hire (other than by general advertising), any employee of the Licensee and any of its Affiliates, in each case who was an employee of SIR as of the Effective Date, provided that nothing in this Section 11.2(b) shall prohibit Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate from hiring any such employee whose employment by Licensee or any of its Affiliates has been terminated for at least six months and who initiates, directly or indirectly, discussions with such Licensor or Licensor Affiliate regarding possible employment.

 

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(c) In the event that Holdings becomes Controlled by any Person who is not a Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) who Controls Holdings as of the Effective Date or a Taubman Family Member or such a group of Taubman Family Members (an “ Acquiror ”) (such event, a “ Holdings Change of Control ”), then such Acquiror and such Acquiror’s Affiliates (other than Holdings and its Subsidiaries) (the “ Acquiror Group ”) shall neither provide nor offer any Authorized Brokerage Services under the Licensed Marks or the Sotheby’s Mark. It is understood that the Acquiror Group is not prohibited from offering and providing Authorized Brokerage Services other than under any Licensed Mark or the Sotheby’s Mark.

ARTICLE XII

OWNERSHIP AND PROTECTION OF MARKS

Section 12.1. Ownership of Marks . Licensee shall not (and no sublicense granted by Licensee shall represent or suggest otherwise) acquire any ownership interest in the Licensed Marks throughout the term of this Agreement or otherwise. Licensee acknowledges, and shall caused each sublicensee to acknowledge, that Licensor exclusively owns, and will continue to own, the Licensed Marks and all copyrights, trademarks, services marks, trade names and other intellectual property rights in and to them and all registrations relating to the foregoing. Licensee acknowledges, and shall cause each sublicensee to acknowledge, ( a ) the great value of the goodwill associated with the Licensed Marks and the Sotheby’s Mark; ( b ) that all goodwill associated with the Licensed Marks and the Sotheby’s Mark will inure to the benefit of Licensor; ( c ) that the Licensed Marks and the Sotheby’s Mark have secondary meaning in the minds of the public and ( d ) that the nature of the businesses of Licensor requires public respect for and trust in the reputation and integrity of Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates.

Section 12.2. Proprietary Materials . Licensor acknowledges that Licensee shall own worldwide in perpetuity the following materials (collectively “ Proprietary Materials ”) created by or on behalf of Licensee or any Company Affiliate holding a sublicense for any Licensed Mark: ( i ) all artwork produced that bears any Licensed Mark (“ Artwork ”); ( ii ) all computer artwork incorporating graphic descriptions of any Licensed Mark (“ Computer Art ”); ( iii ) all photographs incorporating graphic descriptions of any Licensed Mark (“ Photographs ”); ( iv ) all derivative works based on any of the Licensed Marks, Computer Art, Photographs, or Artwork (“ Derivative Works ”); and ( v ) all copyrights and other intellectual property rights in, and all duplicates and copies of, the Artwork, Computer Art, Photographs and Derivative Works described in clauses (i) through (iv) except with respect to any Licensed Mark contained or embodied in any such Proprietary Materials. All Proprietary Materials, and the creation and any use thereof, shall be subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement in all respects. Nothing contained in this Section 12.2 shall be construed to alter or modify the rights and interests of Licensor in and to the Licensed Marks.

Section 12.3. Protection of Marks . Licensor will take all reasonable steps to maintain all registrations of the Licensed Marks, including any such registrations obtained pursuant to Section 10.1, in the Territory during the term hereof, to the extent such Licensed Mark is used by Licensee throughout the term hereof. Licensee will fully cooperate with Licensor, at Licensee’s expense, in efforts to obtain, perfect and enforce Licensor’s rights in the Licensed Marks.

 

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Section 12.4. No Registration by Licensee . Licensee shall not, and Licensee shall cause each Branded Owned Office and Company Affiliate not to, on its own behalf or on behalf of any other Person, in any jurisdiction in the Territory or any other country in the world, register or attempt to register as trademarks or service marks any of the Licensed Marks, any trademark or service mark that consists of or includes the Sotheby’s Mark or any trademark or service mark that is confusingly similar thereto.

Section 12.5. Infringement Actions .

(a) Franchisee-Related Claims . In the event that any Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate, or a Former Branded Franchisee-Affiliate, imitates, infringes, uses without authorization or dilutes, in the Territory, any Licensed Mark in connection with the offer or sale of Authorized Services or Excluded Services by such Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Former Branded Franchisee-Affiliate:

(i) Licensee shall have the sole right (subject to Section 12.5(a)(ii)) to commence or prosecute and control the disposition of any claims or suits against such Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Former Branded Franchisee-Affiliate relative to such imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution (a “ Franchisee Claim ”). Holdings shall, and shall cause each Licensor Affiliate to, reasonably cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to Licensee in connection with such Franchisee Claim, at Licensee’s expense. Subject to Section 12.5(a)(ii), Licensee shall determine whether to take action and the type of action, if any, to take against such imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution.

(ii) If Licensee determines that it will not commence or prosecute such Franchisee Claim within 60 days after Licensee has become aware thereof, ( A ) Licensee shall deliver to Licensor notice thereof, accompanied by a reasonable description of such Franchisee Claim and ( B ) Licensor shall have the right to compel Licensee to commence and prosecute such Franchisee Claim. The right to compel prosecution hereunder shall be exercisable by written notice to Licensee, and Licensee shall commence with reasonable diligence prosecute such claim within 60 days following receipt of notice of such demand from Licensor.

(iii) Licensee shall be solely responsible for the fees and expenses (including attorneys’ fees but not including any fees of co-counsel hired pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 12.5(d)) incurred in connection with such Franchisee Claim.

(iv) Licensee shall receive the full amount of any settlement made or damages awarded in or for such Franchisee Claim (it being understood that to the extent any such settlement or damages awarded is characterized as or deemed or otherwise treated as royalties and to the extent that Licensee has not previously paid Licensor a Fee with respect to such royalties pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 5.1, then such amount shall be treated as Franchisee Covered Revenue and a Fee shall be paid thereon pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 5.1).

(b) Brokerage Service Provider Claims . In the event that any third party imitates, infringes, uses without authorization or dilutes, in the Territory, any Licensed Mark and

 

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such third party ( x ) is not then a Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Former Branded Franchisee-Affiliate and ( y ) is in the business of offering and selling Authorized Services:

(i) Licensee shall have the sole initial right (subject to Section 12.5(b)(ii)) to commence or prosecute and control the disposition of a claim or suit relative to such imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution (a “ Brokerage Service Provider Claim ”). Holdings shall, and shall cause each Licensor Affiliate to, reasonably cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to Licensee in connection with such Brokerage Service Provider Claim, at Licensee’s expense. Subject to Section 12.5(b)(ii), Licensee shall determine whether to take action and the type of action, if any, to take against such imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution.

(ii) If Licensee determines that it will not commence or prosecute such Brokerage Service Provider Claim within 30 days after Licensee has become aware thereof, ( A ) Licensee shall deliver to Licensor notice thereof accompanied by a reasonable description of such Brokerage Service Provider Claim and ( B ) Licensor shall have the right (but not the obligation) to commence or prosecute and control the disposition of such Brokerage Service Provider Claim. Parent shall, and shall cause each of its Affiliates to, reasonably cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to Licensor in connection with such Brokerage Service Provider Claim, at Licensee’s expense.

(iii) Licensee shall be solely responsible for the fees and expenses (including attorneys’ fees but not including any fees of co-counsel hired pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 12.5(d)) incurred in connection with any Brokerage Service Provider Claim, whether commenced and prosecuted by Licensee or Licensor. In the case of any Brokerage Service Provider Claim commenced and prosecuted by Licensor, Licensee shall reimburse Licensor for such fees and expenses as incurred.

(iv) Any settlement made or damages awarded in or for such Brokerage Service Provider Claim shall be applied first to reimburse Licensee for its fees and expenses paid pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 12.5(b)(iii), and the remainder of such settlement or damages shall be divided equally between Licensee and Licensor.

(c) Other Licensed Mark Claims . In the event that any third party imitates, infringes, uses without authorization or dilutes any Licensed Mark in the Territory and such third party ( x ) is not then a Branded Franchisee, Branded Broker Affiliate or Former Branded Franchisee-Affiliate and ( y ) is not in the business of offering and selling Authorized Services:

(i) Licensor shall have the sole initial right (subject to Section 12.5(c)(ii)), in its sole discretion, to commence or prosecute and control the disposition of a claim or suit relative to such imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution (an “ Other Licensed Mark Claim ”). Parent shall, and shall cause each of its Affiliates to, reasonably cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to Licensor in connection with such Other Licensed Mark Claim, at Licensor’s expense. Subject to Section 12.5(c)(ii), Licensor shall determine whether to take action and the type of action, if any, to take against such imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution.

 

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(ii) If Licensor does not commence or prosecute such Other Licensed Mark Claim within 60 days after Licensor has become aware thereof, ( A ) Licensor shall deliver to Licensee written notice thereof accompanied by a reasonable description of such Other Licensed Mark Claim and ( B ) Licensee shall have the right to compel Licensor to commence and prosecute such Other Licensed Mark Claim. The right to compel prosecution hereunder shall be exercisable by written notice to Licensor, and Licensor shall commence and with reasonable diligence prosecute such claim within 60 days following receipt of notice of such demand from Licensee.

(iii) Licensor shall be solely responsible for the fees and expenses (including attorneys’ fees but not including any fees of co-counsel hired pursuant to the terms and conditions of Section 12.5(d)) incurred in connection with such Other Licensed Mark Claim.

(iv) Licensor shall receive the full amount of any settlement made or damages awarded in or for such Other Licensed Mark Claim.

(d) Retention of Co-Counsel . Each of Licensor and Licensee shall have the right to hire co-counsel at its sole expense in connection with, and to participate in the prosecution of, any claim or suit that it is not controlling and prosecuting and that is subject to Sections 12.5(a), (b) or (c).

(e) Diligent Prosecution . In the event that Licensor or Licensee has commenced prosecution of any claim that is subject to Sections 12.5(a), (b) or (c), and such Licensor or Licensee does not, or ceases to, conduct the prosecution of such claim or suit with reasonable diligence, then the other of Licensor or Licensee may apply to the court having jurisdiction over such claim or suit to assume control of the prosecution of such claim or suit.

(f) Notice of Infringement . Each of Licensee and Licensor shall notify the other in writing reasonably promptly (and in no event later than 30 days) after becoming aware of any imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution of any Licensed Mark by any Person.

(g) Reservation of Rights . Licensor reserves all rights with respect to any claim with respect to the imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution of any Mark owned by a Licensor Affiliate or in which any Licensor Affiliate holds rights or interests, whether or not a Licensed Mark or owned by Licensor, that is not expressly described in Sections 12.5(a), (b) or (c). It is understood and agreed by the parties that Licensor shall have the sole right to commence or prosecute and control the disposition of any claims or suits with respect to any such imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution, or choose not to so commence or prosecute, without any limitation hereunder, and Licensee shall not have any rights with respect to any such imitation, infringement, use without authorization or dilution or any such claim or suit.

Section 12.6. Licensee Estoppel . Licensee shall not, and Licensee shall cause each Company Affiliate not to, at any time do, or permit to be done, any acts or things which would in any way challenge or impair the rights of Licensor in and to the Licensed Marks or which would be reasonably likely to adversely affect the validity of the Licensed Marks.

 

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ARTICLE XIII

INDEMNIFICATION

Section 13.1. Indemnification by Licensee . Licensee shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Licensor, Holdings and the Licensor Affiliates, the representatives and agents thereof, and each of the successors and assigns of any of the foregoing (but excluding for the avoidance of doubt any Broker Affiliate or franchisee or any sublicensee of Licensor other than an Affiliate thereof) (collectively, the “ Licensor Indemnified Parties ”), from and against any and all costs, expenses, losses, damages and liabilities (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) (“ Damages ”) suffered by any of the Licensor Indemnified Parties resulting from, arising out of, relating to or incurred with respect to (without duplication of any amounts paid pursuant to Section 7.3 of the Purchase Agreement):

(i) any breach by Licensee of this Agreement (including in respect of any representation or warranty of Licensee as of the Effective Date); and

(ii) any claim, suit, demand, investigation, proceeding, arbitration or litigation by a third party against any Licensor Indemnified Party resulting from, arising out of, relating to or incurred with respect to the business, operations, conduct, acts or omissions of Licensee or any Company Affiliate or any of their agents, Subsidiaries, Franchisees or sublicensees or any of their directors, officers, employees, sales agents, independent contractors or representatives, including ( t ) the offer and sale by any such Person or provision of or offer to provide by any such Person any Authorized Services and any matter relating thereto, ( u ) any other Mark of Licensee or any Company Affiliate or other Branded Operator that is combined with any Licensed Mark, to the extent of the portion of the combined Mark that is not the Licensed Mark, ( v ) any failure by any such Person to comply with any applicable Law (including any franchise Law and all Laws relating to the preparation, offering and contents of a Uniform Franchise Offering Circular and any other franchise disclosure or offering documents and any representations made to franchisees or prospective franchisees), ( w ) acts or omissions by any such Person after the Effective Date constituting fraud, tortious conduct, unfair trade practices, negligence or willful misconduct, or resulting in damage or destruction of property, injury, death, loss or other damages of any kind, ( x ) any agreement by or among Licensee or any Company Affiliate or any of their agents, Subsidiaries, Franchisees or sublicensees and any Owned Office, Branded Broker Affiliate (other than a Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate), Branded Franchisee or any other Person (other than a Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate) with respect to any Licensed Mark, including in each case any termination thereof after the Effective Date or breach thereof, ( y ) any agreement by or among Licensee or any Company Affiliate and any Pre-Existing Broker Affiliate ( A ) in existence prior to the Effective Date, including any termination thereof or breach thereof, except for any Damages described on Schedule D or ( B ) entered into after the Effective Date, including any termination thereof or breach thereof and ( z ) any co-marketing agreement between a Co-Marketer and Licensee or any Company Affiliate, or the offer or sale of any product or service of such Co-Marketer pursuant thereto or in connection therewith, except with respect to all of the foregoing clauses in this Section 13.1(ii), for those Losses for which Licensor has an obligation to indemnify a Licensee Indemnified Party pursuant to the terms of Section 13.2 (without giving effect to Section 13.3) or pursuant to the Purchase Agreement (without giving effect to Section 7.4 thereof).

 

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Section 13.2. Indemnification by Licensor . Licensor shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Licensee and the Company Affiliates, the representatives and agents thereof, and each of the successors and assigns of any of the foregoing (but excluding for the avoidance of doubt any Broker Affiliate or Franchisee or any other sublicensee of Licensee other than a Company Affiliate) (collectively, the “ Licensee Indemnified Parties ”), from and against any and all Damages suffered by any of the Licensee Indemnified Parties resulting from, arising out of, relating to or incurred with respect to (without duplication of any amounts paid pursuant to Section 7.2 of the Purchase Agreement):

(i) any breach by Licensor of this Agreement (including in respect of any representation or warranty of Licensor as of the Effective Date, or with respect to the exercise of the Option with respect to any Option Territory, as of the date of license to the extent applicable);

(ii) any third-party claim, suit, demand, investigation, proceeding, arbitration or litigation against any Licensee Indemnified Party that the use of any Registered Mark for the Applicable Registered Services in the Applicable Registered Country violates or infringes the trademark, copyright, right of publicity or privacy or other intellectual property rights of such third party except to the extent resulting from, arising out of, relating to or incurred with respect to ( x ) any use of any Licensed Mark by any Person in breach of this Agreement or any sublicense, ( y ) any combination of any Licensed Mark with any other Mark or ( z ) the provision of any service or product other than the Applicable Registered Services in the Applicable Registered Country under the Registered Mark corresponding thereto; and

(iii) any claim, suit, demand, investigation, proceeding, arbitration or litigation by a third party against any Licensee Indemnified Party resulting from, arising out of, relating to or incurred with respect to the business, operations, conduct, acts or omissions of Licensor, any Licensor Affiliate or any of their agents, Subsidiaries, Affiliates, franchisees or sublicensees conducting business under the Sotheby’s Mark in connection with any service other than the Authorized Services (which shall not include the business, operations, conduct, acts or omissions of any Licensee Indemnified Party or any direct or indirect sublicensee, franchisee, Affiliate or agent of Licensee), and any matter relating thereto, including ( x ) any failure of any such Person to comply with any applicable Law and ( y ) acts or omissions of any such Person constituting fraud, tortious conduct, unfair trade practices, negligence or willful misconduct, or resulting in damage or destruction of property, injury, death, loss or other damages of any kind, except with respect to all of the foregoing for those Damages for which Licensee has an obligation to indemnify a Licensor Indemnified Party pursuant to the terms of clause (i) of Section 13.1 (without giving effect to Section 13.3).

Section 13.3. Limitations on Indemnification . Anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding:

(a) in no event shall Licensee be liable for, or required to make any payment pursuant to, clause (i) of Section 13.1, with respect to any breach of any representation or warranty of Parent and Licensee (other than with respect to any breach or inaccuracy in any of

 

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the representations and warranties of Parent and Licensee set forth in Section 8.2(a) which shall not be subject to the Licensee Deductible Amount), for any indemnifiable Damages suffered by the Licensor Indemnified Parties unless and until the aggregate dollar amount of all such Damages, taken together with the aggregate dollar amount of all indemnifiable Damages suffered by the Seller Indemnified Parties (as such term is defined in the Purchase Agreement) under clause (i) of Section 7.2 of the Purchase Agreement exceeds $1,000,000 (the “ Licensee Deductible Amount ”), and then only to the extent of such excess, provided that Damages indemnified hereunder in respect of claims made by the Licensor Indemnified Parties with respect to breaches or inaccuracies in the representations or warranties set forth in Section 8.2(a), and Damages indemnified under the Purchase Agreement in respect of claims made by the Purchaser Indemnified Parties (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) with respect to breaches or inaccuracies in the representations or warranties of Sellers (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) set forth in Sections 4.1, 4.2, and 4.6 and 4.7 of the Purchase Agreement, shall be disregarded for purposes of determining whether the aggregate Damages exceed the Licensee Deductible Amount as described above;

(b) in no event shall Licensor be liable for, or required to make any payment pursuant to, clause (i) of Section 13.2, with respect to any breach of any representation or warranty of Licensor (other than with respect to any breach or inaccuracy in any of the representations and warranties of Licensor set forth in Section 8.1(a)) which shall not be subject to the Licensor Deductible Amount), for any indemnifiable Damages suffered by the Licensee Indemnified Parties unless and until the aggregate dollar amount of all such Damages, taken together with the aggregate dollar amount of all indemnifiable Damages suffered by the Purchaser Indemnified Parties (as such term is defined in the Purchase Agreement) under clause (i) of Section 7.3 of the Purchase Agreement exceeds $1,000,000 (the “ Licensor Deductible Amount ”), and then only to the extent of such excess, provided that Damages indemnified hereunder in respect of claims made by the Licensee Indemnified Parties with respect to breaches or inaccuracies in the representations or warranties set forth in Section 8.1(a), and Damages indemnified under the Purchase Agreement in respect of claims made by the Seller Indemnified Parties (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) with respect to breaches or inaccuracies in the representations or warranties set forth in Section 3.1, 3.2, 3.10(c), 3.19, 3.21 and 3.22 of the Purchase Agreement, shall be disregarded for purposes of determining whether the aggregate Damages exceed the Licensor Deductible Amount as described above;

(c) in no event shall Licensor or Licensee be liable for, or required to make any payment pursuant to, Sections 13.1 or 13.2 ( i ) to the extent arising out of any indemnifiable matter unless a claim therefor is asserted specifying in good faith, in reasonable detail and in writing by the applicable Licensor Indemnified Party or Licensee Indemnified Party, as the case may be, within the time period that such indemnifiable matter survives in accordance with Section 13.4, failing which such claim shall be waived and extinguished, ( ii ) to the extent arising out of any legislation not in force as of the Effective Date or any change of Law or administrative practice, which takes effect retroactively to periods prior to the Effective Date, ( iii ) which are merely estimates of Damages and not actual Damages or ( iv ) to the extent that the indemnifiable Damages have been incurred as a result of any failure by the Licensor Indemnified Party or Licensee Indemnified Party, as the case may be, to mitigate such Damages as required by applicable law; and

 

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(d) in no event shall Licensor or Licensee be liable for any damages of the type described in Section 16.2.

Section 13.4. Survival of Representations and Warranties . Each of the representations and warranties made by the parties in this Agreement shall terminate on March 31, 2006; provided , however , that (i) the representations and warranties contained in Sections 8.1(a) and (d) and Section 8.2(a) shall remain in full force and effect without termination. In the event notice of any claim for indemnification under Sections 13.1(i) or 13.2(i) of this Agreement shall have been given (within the meaning of Section 13.5) within the applicable survival period, the representations and warranties that are the subject of such indemnification claim shall survive with respect to such claims until such time as such claim is finally resolved.

Section 13.5. Notice and Resolution of Claim .

(a) The Licensor Indemnified Parties or the Licensee Indemnified Parties to be indemnified hereunder (each, an “ Indemnified Party ”), as the case may be, shall promptly give written notice to the indemnifying party (the “ Indemnifying Party ”) after obtaining knowledge of any third party claim against the Indemnified Party as to which recovery may be sought against the Indemnifying Party because of the indemnities set forth in Sections 13.1 or 13.2, specifying in good faith and in reasonable detail the third party claim including, to the extent reasonably practicable, an estimate of Damages claimed, and the basis for indemnification; provided , that the failure of an Indemnified Party promptly to notify the Indemnifying Party of any such matter shall not release the Indemnifying Party, in whole or in part, from its obligations under this Article 13 except to the extent the Indemnified Party’s failure to so notify in breach of this Section 13.5 actually prejudices the Indemnifying Party. The Indemnifying Party shall have the right to assume the defense of any such third party claim at its own cost and expense with counsel selected by the Indemnifying Party (as to which the Indemnified Party has not promptly and reasonably objected) by giving written notice to the Indemnified Party of its intention to assume such defense within the lesser of ( i ) thirty (30) days after notice thereof has been given to the Indemnifying Party, and ( ii ) five (5) Business Days prior to the date required to answer or respond to any such claim (the “ Election Period ”). Commencing on the beginning of and during the Election Period, the Indemnified Party agrees to make available to the Indemnifying Party and its authorized representatives the information relied upon by the Indemnified Party to substantiate the third party claim, as well as any other information bearing thereon reasonably requested by the Indemnifying Party. If the Indemnifying Party fails to notify the Indemnified Party of its election to assume the defense of any such third party claim within the Election Period, then the Indemnified Party shall defend or settle such third party claim in a diligent and commercially reasonable manner and in good faith and may settle such third party claim on such terms as the Indemnified Party may deem appropriate; provided , however , that such Indemnified Party shall not, in defense of such a third party claim, be permitted to admit any liability with respect to, or consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement with respect to, any such third party claim without the prior written consent of the Indemnifying Party (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed), and the Indemnifying Party will not be subject to any liability for any such admission, settlement, compromise, discharge or consent to judgment made by an Indemnified Party without such prior written consent of the Indemnifying Party. An Indemnifying Party may participate in (but not control) any defense assumed by an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 13.5(a), and an Indemnifying Party will bear its own

 

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costs and expenses with respect to such participation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an Indemnifying Party shall have the right to assume the defense of such third party claim at any time prior to settlement, compromise or final determination thereof; provided , however , that an Indemnifying Party shall pay all fees and expenses incurred by an Indemnified Party prior to such Indemnifying Party’s assumption of such defense.

(b) If the Indemnifying Party assumes the defense of any such third party claim, the obligations of the Indemnifying Party under this Article 13 shall include taking all steps deemed necessary by the Indemnifying Party, acting in good faith, in the investigation, defense or settlement of such third party claim (including the retention of legal counsel) and the Indemnifying Party shall, as a condition to assuming such defense, acknowledge that it will hold the Indemnified Party harmless from and against any and all Damages caused by or arising out of any settlement approved by the Indemnifying Party or any judgment in such claim (subject to the applicable deductibles and limitations set forth in Section 13.4). The Indemnifying Party shall notify the Indemnified Party as to the existence of any offers to settle such third party claim, and the Indemnifying Party shall not settle a third party claim if to the knowledge of the Indemnifying Party (after notifying and consulting with the Indemnified Party) such action would reasonably be expected to have a materially adverse impact on the Indemnified Party; otherwise the Indemnifying Party shall have full control of such defense and settlement, including any compromise or settlement thereof; provided , however , that such Indemnifying Party shall permit the Indemnified Party to participate in (but not control) such defense or settlement through separate counsel chosen by such Indemnified Party, with the fees and expenses of such participation and separate counsel borne solely by such Indemnified Party. The Indemnifying Party shall not, in the defense of a third party claim, make any payment of any of such claims, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement with respect to any third party claim without the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed) unless the judgment or proposed settlement ( i ) involves only the payment of money damages and does not involve any finding or admission of any violation of law, ( ii ) includes, as an unconditional term thereof, a release of such Indemnified Party given by the claimant or the plaintiff from any liabilities arising from such third party claim, and ( iii ) does not impose an injunction or other equitable relief, directly or indirectly, upon such Indemnified Party or result in an admission of any wrongdoing by the Indemnified Party. The Indemnified Party shall cooperate with the Indemnifying Party in the defense or settlement thereof, and the Indemnifying Party shall reimburse the Indemnified Party for all its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection therewith.

(c) Indemnified Parties and Indemnifying Parties shall cooperate reasonably in all aspects of any investigation, defense, pre-trial activities, trial compromise, settlement or discharge of any third party claim, including, without limitation, by providing the other party with reasonable access to employees, directors and officers (as witnesses) and other information.

(d) All indemnity payments owed under this Article 13 (“ Indemnity Payments ”), shall be paid in immediately available funds within ten (10) Business Days after final determination (which is final in the sense that it is no longer subject to appeal) and written request therefor by the Indemnified Party. All such Indemnity Payments shall be made to the accounts and in the manner specified in writing by the party entitled to such Indemnity

 

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Payments. Any amounts that are not paid within such ten day period shall accrue interest at the Prime Rate on the date such payment is due.

(e) In the event of any conflict between Section 12.5 and this Article 13, Article 13 shall govern.

ARTICLE XIV

DEFAULT AND TERMINATION

Section 14.1. Termination . Licensor, at its option and in its sole discretion, may immediately terminate this Agreement, upon or at any time after the occurrence of any of the following events:

(a) Licensee attempts to assign any of its rights under this Agreement or any interest herein knowingly in contravention of Article 17 hereof;

(b) Licensee or Parent files a petition in bankruptcy, is adjudicated a bankrupt or files a petition or otherwise seeks relief under or pursuant to any bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization statute or proceeding, or if a petition in bankruptcy is filed against it or it becomes insolvent or makes an assignment for the benefit of its creditors or a custodian, receiver or trustee is appointed for it or a substantial portion of its business or assets;

(c) a court of competent jurisdiction issues a non-appealable, final judgment that either Licensee or Parent is in breach of any payment obligation hereunder, and has failed to cure such breach within 60 days following the date of issuance of such non-appealable, final judgment;

(d) a court of competent jurisdiction issues a non appealable, final judgment that Licensee has committed a pattern of multiple material breaches, that Licensee knew or should have known about at the time of committing such breaches, of Section 7.1(a), 7.1(b) or 7.1(c) of this Agreement, that collectively have had a material adverse effect on the goodwill associated with the Sotheby’s Mark, which breaches shall not have been cured within 60 days after the date of issuance of such non-appealable, final judgment;

(e) any Licensee or any Company Affiliate ( i ) begins to offer or sell services as, or enters into an affiliation, license or similar agreement with respect to real estate brokerage services with, an Auction House in the Territory or any other country in the world, other than Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate or ( ii ) is or becomes, in part or in whole, an Auction House (whether operating in the Territory or any other country in the world), or any Licensee or any Company Affiliate enters into any arrangement which would effect any of the foregoing, and has failed to either ( x ) terminate any agreement, or cease offering or selling services, referenced in clause (i) of this Section 14.1(e) within 60 days following Licensee’s or Parent’s notice (whether constructive or actual) that such agreement has been entered into, or such services have begun to be offered or sold or ( y ) use reasonable best efforts to divest as soon as reasonably practicable any of its assets constituting, individually or collectively, an Auction House referred to in clause (ii)

 

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(Licensee to use and to cause each Company Affiliate to use reasonable best efforts to cause any such divestiture to occur within six months of the event described in clause (ii));

(f) Parent, Licensee, any Company Affiliate or any other Person acting in the name of or on behalf of Parent, Licensee or any Company Affiliate, or the estate of any of the foregoing, including any receiver, custodian, trustee (including any trustee in bankruptcy) and any successor in interest or assignee of any of the foregoing, disclaims the enforceability of the Guarantee or otherwise asserts a defense to the enforceability of the Guarantee (and such assertion is not withdrawn prior to the earlier of ( i ) the time at which a responsive pleading is due to be filed under applicable law or ( ii ) 10 days); or

(g) Licensee discontinues all use of all of the Licensed Marks for a period of twelve consecutive months.

Section 14.2. Effect of Termination .

(a) Upon termination of this Agreement:

(i) except as otherwise provided in Section 14.2(a)(iii) below, the right of Licensee and each Company Affiliate and sublicensee to use the Licensed Marks shall immediately terminate, provided that Licensee shall have a reasonable period of time (not to exceed 180 days) to de-identify each Branded Owned Office and Company Affiliate, and the services offered thereby and by it, with respect to the Licensed Marks, and Licensee shall, and shall cause each Company Affiliate to, promptly take and cause to be taken all actions reasonably necessary to effect such de-identification;

(ii) Licensee shall, and shall cause each Company Affiliate to, and shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cause any other sublicensee of any Licensed Mark to, promptly cease using any Licensed Mark in any corporate or trade name and shall take all actions required to effect a change in such corporate or trade name;

(iii) other than in the case of termination of this Agreement pursuant to Article 4, each sublicense granted by a Licensee to a Branded Broker Affiliate or Branded Franchisee pursuant to the terms of this Agreement shall continue to be valid and in effect (and a non-exclusive license of the Licensed Marks to Licensee shall remain in effect solely to the extent necessary to allow such sublicense to remain in effect) for the remainder of the term of each Branded Franchise Agreement or Broker Affiliate Agreement in effect (such period, the “ Franchise Wind-Down Period ”), it being understood that all Franchisee Covered Revenue relating to the Franchise Wind-Down Period shall be subject to Fees pursuant to the terms and conditions of Article 5 as if during the term of this Agreement and that all other applicable terms and conditions in this Agreement, including Sections 7.4 and 7.5, shall continue in effect for the duration of the Franchise Wind-Down Period; and provided that, during such Franchise Wind-Down Period, Licensee and its Affiliates may seek to re-affiliate any such Branded Franchisees or Broker Affiliate in its discretion with any other franchise brands of Licensee and its Affiliates (but such Branded Franchisee’s or Branded Broker Affiliate’s sublicense to any Licensed Mark shall nevertheless terminate upon the later of termination of the respective Branded Franchise

 

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Agreement or Broker Affiliate Agreement or termination of any post-termination wind-down period (including mandatory renewal periods) required by applicable Law or provided for in any such Branded Franchise Agreement or Broker Affiliate Agreement);

(iv) Licensee shall, and shall cause each Company Affiliate to, cause the non-renewal of each Branded Franchise Agreement, except and solely to the extent prohibited by applicable Law;

(v) the registration for any domain name consisting of both a Licensed Mark and an Eligible Mark shall be cancelled within 60 days following termination of this Agreement; and

(vi) except to the extent expressly provided otherwise by Sections 14.2(a)(i) through (iv), all rights and obligations of any party under this Agreement shall terminate and be of no further force and effect, except that (A)  the agreements and covenants of the parties contained in Articles 5, 9, 13, 15, 16, 19 and 20 and Sections 12.1, 12.2, 12.4 and 12.6 shall survive termination of this Agreement for the period stated therein (or indefinitely if no such period is set forth) and (B)  the agreements and covenants of Licensee set forth in Section 7.3(a)(i) shall survive for ten years from the end of the Franchise Wind-Down Period.

(b) Termination of this Agreement for any reason shall be without prejudice to any rights that shall have accrued to the benefit of any party prior to such termination.

(c) In the event of termination of this Agreement as a result of the occurrence of an event described in Section 14.1(b), no assignee for the benefit of creditors, custodian, receiver, trustee in bankruptcy, sheriff or any other officer of the court or official charged with taking over custody of Licensee’s assets or business may continue this Agreement or exploit or in any way use any Licensed Mark.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, Licensor acknowledges and agrees that this Agreement may not be terminated except as expressly set forth in Section 14.1.

ARTICLE XV

REVIEW COMMITTEE AND LIAISONS

Section 15.1. Formation . Licensee, on the one hand, and Licensor, on the other, shall establish a committee (the “ Review Committee ”) for the purpose of discussing the parties’ respective businesses conducted in connection with this Agreement, those certain other matters contemplated hereby, including as set forth in Section 15.2, and such other matters relating to this Agreement, including disputes hereunder, as the parties may desire to raise with one another. Licensee and Licensor shall have the right to appoint an equal number of representatives to the Review Committee, which shall not exceed two representatives, respectively, unless the parties agree otherwise. The parties’ representatives to the Review Committee shall be officers who ( a ) have responsibility for, and familiarity with, in the case of Licensee, Licensee’s business and operations under the Licensed Marks and, in the case of Licensor, Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates’ business as it relates to matters contemplated by this Agreement and ( b ) the requisite

 

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authority within their respective organizations to make decisions with respect to those business and non-legal matters customarily addressed by the Review Committee. Licensee, on the one hand, and Licensor, on the other, may replace its respective representatives to the Review Committee from time to time by giving notice to the other party.

Section 15.2. Responsibilities . The Review Committee shall meet once approximately every six months until December 31, 2006, and annually thereafter during the term of this Agreement. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in connection with and in view of the long-term nature of the License Agreement and changes which may occur in Law or in the marketplace in the future, in the event that either party proposes amendments in good faith to this Agreement to address any such change to the extent the change would or does result in a material diminishment of the benefits of this Agreement from those that would have been realized by such party without such change, the Review Committee shall discuss and consider such changes and proposed amendments in good faith and the Review Committee shall serve as a non-exclusive forum in which the parties shall negotiate in good faith regarding any such proposed changes; provided that no party hereto shall be obligated to agree to any change to this Agreement and nothing in this Section 15.2 shall modify or limit the terms and conditions of Section 20.3. The Review Committee shall also discuss ways in which each party may benefit from the client base of the other party in marketing or cross-marketing their respective services. The Review Committee shall establish its own procedures with respect to the conduct of its meetings, provided that Licensee, on the one hand, and Licensor, on the other, shall propose any matters for the agenda of each meeting of the Review Committee reasonably in advance by notice to the members of the Review Committee. The parties shall in good faith coordinate with one another to establish the schedule of meetings for the Review Committee as contemplated by this Section 15.2.

Section 15.3. Liaisons . In supplement to, and without limiting the scope and purposes of, the Review Committee, the parties desire that Licensor and Licensee each designate an officer thereof to act as a liaison to the other parties for purposes of facilitating communications by and among the parties in connection with matters relating to this Agreement and addressing business issues and disputes between the parties and issues involving mutual clients that may arise during the term. Licensor and Licensee covenant and agree that its liaison under this Section 15.3 shall have the requisite authority to address the issues and disputes that may be communicated to such liaison, including direct access to senior-level management of Licensee and Licensor, as applicable, as necessary. Licensor and Licensee shall each designate their respective liaisons under this Section 15.3 by written notice to the other parties, which notice shall include the relevant contact information for such liaison. Licensor and Licensee shall have the right to replace its liaison from time to time and designate a replacement liaison who meets the criteria for a liaison contemplated by this Section 5.13, upon notice to the other parties. Licensor shall and shall cause each Licensor Affiliate and the Licensor Liaison, and Licensee shall and shall cause each Company Affiliate and the Licensee Liaison, to cooperate with one another to ensure that they each respond to any matter raised by another party hereunder, including by its liaison, with due regard for the magnitude and time requirements of such matter and, with respect to matters relating to any mutual client regarded by Licensor or Licensee as a very important client, on an extremely expedited basis.

 

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Section 15.4. Winding Down . This Article 15 shall survive termination of this Agreement, for the purpose of monitoring, and otherwise coordinating with respect to, the matters contemplated in Section 14.2, and shall thereafter terminate when the obligations of the parties under Section 14.2 have been fulfilled.

Section 15.5. Non-Exclusive Role . Nothing in this Article 15, including the formation of the Review Committee, its purposes or the designation of the liaisons hereunder, shall in any way limit or modify Section 16.1.

ARTICLE XVI

CERTAIN REMEDIES

Section 16.1. Specific Performance .

(a) The parties agree that if any of the material provisions of this Agreement are not performed in accordance with their specific terms or are otherwise breached, irreparable damage would occur, no adequate remedy at Law would exist and damages would be difficult to determine, and that the parties shall be entitled to specific performance of the terms of this Agreement, in addition to any other remedy at law or equity.

(b) With respect to any material breach or default under this Agreement by Licensee and without limiting in any way the obligation of Licensor to establish such breach, Licensee hereby waives any defense to (other than as to Licensor’s ability to establish its likelihood of success on the merits), and to that extent consents to, the order of specific performance and the entry of preliminary and permanent injunctive relief against Licensee barring such nonperformance or breach and imposing reasonable measures to prevent further nonperformance or breach.

(c) This Section 16.1 shall not in any way limit any remedy that any party may have at law or in equity, and no party shall be required to pursue its rights under this Section 16.1 prior to pursuit of any other remedy at law or in equity. The remedies provided for in this Agreement are cumulative and not exclusive.

Section 16.2. Limitation of Remedies . None of the parties hereto shall be liable to any other party for any indirect, special, incidental, consequential, exemplary or punitive damages, or for lost profits, unrealized expectations or other similar terms, claimed by such other party resulting from such first party’s breach of its obligations, agreements, representations or warranties hereunder, provided that nothing in this Section 16.2 shall preclude any recovery by a party entitled to indemnification pursuant to Article XIII for such Damages payable to any third party as a result of a third party claim.

Section 16.3. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES . OTHER THAN AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH IN SECTION 8.1, LICENSOR MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT TO THE LICENSED MARKS AND THE OTHER MATTERS CONTEMPLATED BY THIS AGREEMENT, INCLUDING ( A ) ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ( B ) ANY WARRANTY WITH RESPECT TO THE VALIDITY OR

 

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ENFORCEABILITY OF, OR OF ANY NON-INFRINGEMENT RELATING TO, THE USE OF ANY LICENSED MARK IN CONNECTION WITH ANY AUTHORIZED ANCILLARY SERVICE AND ( C ) ANY WARRANTY ARISING THROUGH COURSE OF DEALING OR USAGE OF TRADE.

ARTICLE XVII

ASSIGNMENT

Section 17.1. Assignments Generally . The rights granted to Licensee hereunder are personal in nature. Licensee may not assign, sublicense or otherwise transfer any of its rights under this Agreement or other interests herein other than as expressly provided by Article II and 17.2, and any such attempted assignment, sublicense or other transfer, whether voluntary or by operation of law, directly or indirectly, shall be void and of no further force and effect.

Section 17.2. Permitted Assignment . Licensee may assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement in their entirety (but not in part) to ( a ) a Company Affiliate or ( b ) a Person who ( i ) acquires (whether by stock purchase, merger, asset purchase, reorganization, consolidation or in any other form of transaction) all or substantially all of ( x ) the business of Licensee and the Company Affiliates with respect to this Agreement and of any Company Affiliate that is a Branded Operator (such business all taken as a whole) (as it exists on the date of such assignment), ( y ) the Licensee Brokerage Business or ( z ) Licensee’s Residential Real Estate franchise business and ( ii ) agrees with Licensor, in writing, to be bound as a “Licensee” under this Agreement; provided that any assignment to any Person that primarily operates an Auction House Business (whether or not in the United States) or is an Affiliate of any such Person shall require the prior written consent of Licensor.

Section 17.3. Deemed Assignment . For purposes of this Agreement, the following events shall be deemed to be an “assignment” (provided that a permitted assignment shall have not theretofore occurred pursuant to the provisions of Section 17.2):

(a) Licensee ceases to be, directly or indirectly, wholly-owned by Parent; and

(b) Licensee sells or otherwise disposes of or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to any Person.

Section 17.4. Assignment of Rights to Fees . Following the twelfth anniversary of the Effective Date and at any time thereafter during the term, Licensor shall have the right to assign to any Person, Licensor’s right to receive payment of all Fees due and payable thereafter (including any Minimum Amount if applicable); provided , that, only in the case of any proposed assignment to a Person that is not a Licensor Affiliate, not less than 30 days prior to any such proposed assignment, Licensor shall deliver notice to Licensee of Licensor’s intention to assign such right to receive License Fees hereunder, and during such 30-day period Licensee shall have the right to make an offer to be the assignee of such right. Licensor shall not be under any obligation to accept any offer so received from Licensee and may reject any such offer in its sole discretion. At any time following the expiration of the 30-day period following notice from

 

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Licensor, Licensor shall be free to enter into any arrangement with any third party on any terms with respect to the assignment of rights referenced above.

Section 17.5. Effect of Assignment . No assignment by any party hereto of any rights or interests hereunder shall increase the indemnifiable Damages for which an Indemnifying Party may seek indemnification hereunder, or otherwise increase any obligations hereunder of the non-assigning party (it being understood that no such rights or interests may be assigned except as expressly permitted by this Agreement).

ARTICLE XVIII

OPTION RELATING TO FOREIGN TRADEMARKS

Section 18.1. Grant of Option . Pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, during the five-year period commencing on the Effective Date (the “ Option Period ”), Licensee shall have the option (the “ Option ”) to ( i ) license the Licensed Marks for use solely for the offer and sale of Authorized Services, on the terms provided herein, in the Option Territory and ( ii ) to the extent permitted by applicable Law and Licensor’s obligations under applicable agreements of Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates, acquire (a “ Foreign Operations Sale ”) on an “as is, where is” basis and without warranties, either Licensor’s brokerage operations (to the extent not then shut down) in the Option Territory or the franchise and affiliation agreements, if any, to which Licensor is a party at the time of such exercise of the Option.

Section 18.2. Maintenance of Registration; Limitation .

(a) Licensor shall have no obligation to maintain ( i ) its business operations relating to any Licensed Mark in any country in the Option Territory or ( ii ) its use of any Licensed Mark in any country in the Option Territory except with respect to the filings contemplated under Section 18.2(b). In connection with the foregoing, the parties acknowledge that Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates intend to cease conducting residential real estate brokerage services in the Option Territory, and nothing in this Agreement is intended by the parties, nor shall it be interpreted to prevent, Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate from reducing the scope of or ceasing such operations in any country or otherwise restrict the conduct of such operations, except as provided herein.

(b) Subject to Section 18.2(a), if requested by Licensee at any time during the Option Period, Licensor shall make any filing and pay any filing fee in connection with the maintenance of the Licensed Marks, to the extent permitted by applicable Law, provided that Licensee shall reimburse Licensor for its expenses in connection therewith, including all filing fees and attorneys’ fees.

Section 18.3. Exercise of Option .

(a) The exercise price to be paid by Licensee upon any exercise of the Option shall be $1.00 for each country in the Option Territory covered by such exercise.

(b) Each exercise of the Option shall be in writing, accompanied by payment in full of the applicable exercise price. Licensee shall have the right to exercise the Option from

 

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time to time during the Option Period, with respect to one or more countries in any single exercise. Licensee shall retain the right to any additional partial exercise during the Option Period, or any exercise of the Option with respect to the remainder of the countries in the Option Territory, for the remaining balance of the Option Period.

(c) Following any exercise of the Option, Licensor and Licensee shall use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain (at Licensee’s expense) any consents, authorizations, approvals, permits or licenses and submission of all filings, declarations, registrations or notices as are necessary or advisable under applicable Law, including antitrust Laws (“ Option Consents and Filings ”). With respect to any exercise of the Option with respect to Germany, the approval of the German Federal Cartel Office or the confirmation by the German Federal Cartel Office that no filing is required shall be among the Option Consents and Filings.

(d) Following any exercise of the Option, Licensor shall use commercially reasonable efforts to file (at Licensee’s expense) a trademark registration application with respect to the Licensed Marks in each country with respect to which the Option is being exercised, to the extent not already registered (including at Licensee’s request prior to such time). The procedures for preparing, filing and prosecuting each such trademark registration application shall be those applicable to the registration of Licensed Marks in the Option Territory. Licensor will establish (at Licensee’s expense) an Eligible SPV in ( i ) the United States, ( ii ) in the country with respect to which the Option has been exercised (to the extent permitted by applicable Law), ( iii ) the country in which the Licensed Marks with respect to which the Option is being exercised are held at the time of exercise or ( iv ) such other jurisdiction as Licensor reasonably determines, and shall file such trademark registration application in the name of such Eligible SPV (after effecting any necessary transfers of rights to such Eligible SPV).

(e) Following ( x ) the receipt by Licensor of a certificate of registration from the applicable Governmental Authority with respect to each such trademark registration application and ( y ) the receipt or submission of any Option Consents and Filings as are necessary or advisable under applicable Law, the parties will in good faith prepare and enter into an addendum or joinder agreement to this Agreement:

(i) reflecting the application of the terms and conditions of this Agreement to the use of the Licensed Marks in the country or countries with respect to which the Option is being exercised, including with respect to quality control matters and the representations and warranties of each of the parties with respect to the Licensed Marks as of the date of the entering into of such addendum or joinder agreement, and the survival of such representations and warranties for a period of two years thereafter;

(ii) amending Schedule C to reflect as part of the Territory under this Agreement the addition of such country with respect to which the Option has been exercised;

(iii) providing that Fees shall accrue with respect to Covered Revenue Earned from Authorized Brokerage Services in such country or countries, as provided herein;

(iv) containing such other modification to the terms of this Agreement and additional terms and conditions as may be reasonably necessary to comport with the

 

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applicable Law of the country or countries with respect to which the Option is being exercised, to permit Licensor and its Affiliates to comply with any remaining contractual obligations of Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates with respect to the Licensed Marks in such country or countries (including any then-existing broker affiliate agreements) and to accomplish the purposes of this Article 18 and the intentions of the parties without affecting the financial and legal substance of the matters contemplated by this Agreement in a way that is materially adverse to any party; and

(v) otherwise evidencing the agreement of such Eligible SPV to be bound by the terms and conditions of this Agreement as a Licensor hereunder, subject to the foregoing clauses (i) through (iv), including with respect to modifications and additions to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

(f) In the event that Licensee exercises the Option with respect to any Foreign Operations Sale, following the receipt by Licensor of any Option Consents and Filings as are necessary or advisable under applicable Law with respect to such Foreign Operations Sale, the parties will in good faith prepare and enter into a separate agreement effecting such Foreign Operations Sale on an “as is, where is” basis and without warranties, and as otherwise contemplated by this Section 18.3; provided that any Foreign Operations Sale shall be conditioned upon the simultaneous or prior grant of the license for the Licensed Marks (pursuant to Section 18.3(e)) in the country in which the assets covered by such Foreign Operations Sale are located.

Section 18.4. Covenant of Licensor Following Exercise . Following each exercise of the Option, Licensor shall (unless otherwise agreed by Licensor and Licensee), wind-up as promptly as practicable (and in any event within 180 days) all residential real-estate brokerage operations in the country with respect to which the Option is being exercised, including termination of then-existing broker affiliate agreements and franchise agreements to the extent not being assigned to Licensee pursuant to a separate agreement, with respect to such country, subject to the requirements of applicable Law in such country and the contractual and legal obligations of Licensor and the Licensor Affiliates in such country.

Section 18.5. Negative Covenants of Licensor With Respect to Option Territory . During the term of this Agreement, Holdings and Licensor shall not, and Holdings shall cause the Licensor Affiliates (for so long as they remain Licensor Affiliates) not to, without the consent of Licensee, ( a ) enter into any new master franchise agreement or affiliation agreement with respect to the use of ( i ) any Licensed Mark or ( ii ) the Sotheby’s Mark for the offer and sale of Authorized Services in any country in the Option Territory, other than Timeshare Brokerage Services and sales of Artistically Significant Residences in auction format and ( b ) sell, dispose or otherwise transfer to any Person, other than to an Eligible SPV, or grant a license to any Person to use, ( x ) any Licensed Mark or ( y ) the Sotheby’s Mark for the offer and sale of Authorized Services, in any country in the Option Territory, other than Timeshare Brokerage Services and sales of Artistically Significant Residences in auction format.

Section 18.6. Ownership of Marks . Licensee acknowledges that the direct ownership of any Licensed Mark with respect to any country in the Option Territory may be held by a Licensor Affiliate. In the event that Licensee shall exercise the Option with respect to a country

 

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in the Option Territory for which the Licensed Marks are held by a Licensor Affiliate, Licensor shall cause such Licensor Affiliate to execute the respective addendum and/or joinder agreement for the purpose of effecting the grant of the license of the Licensed Marks as contemplated herein.

ARTICLE XIX

GUARANTEE

Section 19.1. Guarantees . (a) Parent hereby unconditionally and absolutely guarantees (this “ Guarantee ”), as a primary obligor and not merely as surety, the full and punctual payment and performance of all debts, obligations and liabilities (including in respect of Fees and referral fees), whether such obligations are direct or indirect, absolute or contingent, now existing or subsequently arising, primary or secondary, now due or hereafter falling due, monetary or otherwise, of Licensee under this Agreement, together with all costs of collection, compromise or enforcement, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred with respect to any such debt, obligations or liabilities, or with respect to this or any other guaranty of any of them, or with respect to a proceeding under the federal bankruptcy laws or any moratorium, insolvency, receivership, arrangement or reorganization law or an assignment for the benefit of creditors concerning Licensee or Parent, together with interest on all such costs of collection, compromise or enforcement from the date arising (collectively, the “ Obligations ”). Parent further agrees that its liability under the Guarantee shall not be discharged, impaired, diminished or otherwise affected by any (a) extension, settlement, modification, compromise, waiver, release or renewal of any Obligation, in whole or in part or (b) any modification or amendment or supplement to this Agreement. The Guarantee is a continuing guarantee, which shall apply to all Obligations which now exist or subsequently arise, whether or not notice of such Obligations is given to Parent, whether or not any or all prior Obligations had been fully paid, performed and observed before any such Obligation arose, and notwithstanding Holdings’ dissolution.

(b) Holdings hereby unconditionally and absolutely guarantees (this “ Holdings Guarantee ”), as a primary obligor and not merely as surety, the full and punctual payment and performance of all debts, obligations and liabilities (including in respect of referral fees), whether such obligations are direct or indirect, absolute or contingent, now existing or subsequently arising, primary or secondary, now due or hereafter falling due, monetary or otherwise, of Licensor under this Agreement, together with all costs of collection, compromise or enforcement, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred with respect to any such debt, obligations or liabilities, or with respect to this or any other guaranty of any of them, or with respect to a proceeding under the federal bankruptcy laws or any moratorium, insolvency, receivership, arrangement or reorganization law or an assignment for the benefit of creditors concerning Licensor or Holdings, together with interest on all such costs of collection, compromise or enforcement from the date arising (collectively, the “ Holdings Obligations ”). Holdings further agrees that its liability under the Holdings Guarantee shall not be discharged, impaired, diminished or otherwise affected by any (a) extension, settlement, modification, compromise, waiver, release or renewal of any Holdings Obligation, in whole or in part or (b) any modification or amendment or supplement to this Agreement. The Holdings Guarantee is a continuing guarantee, which shall apply to all Holdings Obligations which now exist or subsequently arise, whether or not notice of such Holdings Obligations is given to Holdings,

 

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whether or not any or all prior Holdings Obligations had been fully paid, performed and observed before any such Holdings Obligation arose, and notwithstanding Parent’s dissolution.

Section 19.2. Waiver of Notices, Etc. (a) Parent agrees that Licensor shall not be required to give Parent any notice pursuant to the Guarantee, and that no failure to give any notice shall discharge, impair, diminish or otherwise affect the liability which Parent would have had under the Guarantee if notice had been given. Parent waives: ( a ) notice of acceptance of the Guarantee, ( b ) notice of the incurring of additional or increased Obligations, ( c ) notice of the application of any payment, transfer or recovery from security, ( d ) presentment, demand and protest of any instrument, and notice thereof, ( e ) notice of nonpayment or other default under the Guarantee or under any Obligation, ( f ) any right to demand public foreclosure sale of any security, ( g ) notice of foreclosure, ( h ) notice of any release, discharge, modification or failure to obtain any security for any of the Obligations, ( i ) notice of any waiver by Licensor of any of the terms, covenants or conditions of any of the Obligations, ( j ) notice of the granting of any indulgence or extension of time to Licensee, ( k ) notice of any modification, supplement or extension of any of the Obligations, ( l ) notice of any agreement or arrangement with Licensee or anyone else, ( m ) any right to exoneration or to require election of remedies, ( n ) all suretyship defenses and ( o ) any other defenses or notice requirements which may exist at law or in equity. The obligations of Parent under this Article 19 shall not be affected by ( x ) the failure of Licensor to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any right or remedy against Licensee under the provisions of this Agreement or ( y ) any rescission, waiver, amendment or modification of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement. Parent further agrees that the Guarantee constitutes a guarantee of payment and performance when due and not of collection and waives any right to require that any resort be had by Licensor to any other guarantee or any security held for payment or performance of the Obligations.

(b) Holdings agrees that Licensee shall not be required to give Holdings any notice pursuant to the Holdings Guarantee, and that no failure to give any notice shall discharge, impair, diminish or otherwise affect the liability which Holdings would have had under the Guarantee if notice had been given. Holdings waives: ( a ) notice of acceptance of the Holdings Guarantee, ( b ) notice of the incurring of additional or increased Holdings Obligations, ( c ) notice of the application of any payment, transfer or recovery from security, ( d ) presentment, demand and protest of any instrument, and notice thereof, ( e ) notice of nonpayment or other default under the Holdings Guarantee or under any Holdings Obligation, ( f ) any right to demand public foreclosure sale of any security, ( g ) notice of foreclosure, ( h ) notice of any release, discharge, modification or failure to obtain any security for any of the Holdings Obligations, ( i ) notice of any waiver by Licensee of any of the terms, covenants or conditions of any of the Holdings Obligations, ( j ) notice of the granting of any indulgence or extension of time to any Licensor, ( k ) notice of any modification, supplement or extension of any of the Holdings Obligations, ( l ) notice of any agreement or arrangement with any Licensor or anyone else, ( m ) any right to exoneration or to require election of remedies, ( n ) all suretyship defenses and ( o ) any other defenses or notice requirements which may exist at law or in equity. The obligations of Holdings under this Article 19 shall not be affected by ( x ) the failure of Licensee to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any right or remedy against Licensor under the provisions of this Agreement or ( y ) any rescission, waiver, amendment or modification of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement. Holdings further agrees that the Holdings Guarantee constitutes a guarantee of payment and performance when due and not of collection and waives any right to

 

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require that any resort be had by Licensee to any other guarantee or any security held for payment or performance of the Holdings Obligations.

Section 19.3.   Reinstatement . (a) Parent agrees that the Guarantee shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, if at any time payment or performance, or any part thereof, on any Obligation (including any payment pursuant to the Guarantee) is rescinded or must otherwise be restored by Licensor upon the bankruptcy or reorganization of Licensee or otherwise.

(a) Holdings agrees that the Holdings Guarantee shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, if at any time payment or performance, or any part thereof, on any Holdings Obligation (including any payment pursuant to the Holdings Guarantee) is rescinded or must otherwise be restored by Licensee upon the bankruptcy or reorganization of any Licensor or otherwise.

Section 19.4.   Waiver of Subrogation; Subordination . (a) Parent shall have no right of subrogation, reimbursement or indemnity whatsoever, nor any right of recourse to security for the Obligations, except when and so long as all of the Obligations have been fully paid, performed and observed, and have not been reinstated by reason of the avoidance of any transfer, the return of any payment, or otherwise. All present and future debts, obligations and liabilities of Licensee to Parent are hereby waived and postponed in favor of and subordinated to the full payment, performance and observance of the Obligations, and Parent agrees to assign and deliver to Licensor on request, as security for the Guarantee, (a) any such debts, obligations or liabilities, (b) any instruments or documents evidencing the same, (c) any security therefor and (d) any payments or transfers with respect thereto, or recoveries on security therefor, received by Parent after default under any of the Obligations.

(b) Holdings shall have no right of subrogation, reimbursement or indemnity whatsoever, nor any right of recourse to security for the Holdings Obligations, except when and so long as all of the Holdings Obligations have been fully paid, performed and observed, and have not been reinstated by reason of the avoidance of any transfer, the return of any payment, or otherwise. All present and future debts, obligations and liabilities of Licensor to Holdings are hereby waived and postponed in favor of and subordinated to the full payment, performance and observance of the Holdings Obligations, and Holdings agrees to assign and deliver to Licensee on request, as security for the Holdings Guarantee, (a) any such debts, obligations or liabilities, (b) any instruments or documents evidencing the same, (c) any security therefor and (d) any payments or transfers with respect thereto, or recoveries on security therefor, received by Holdings after default under any of the Holdings Obligations.

Section 19.5. Successors and Assigns . (a) The benefit of the Guarantee shall run to Licensor and its heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns. The burden of the Guarantee shall bind Parent and its heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns. The Guarantee shall apply to the Obligations of Licensee and of Licensee’s heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns, including the successor to Licensee upon any merger, consolidation, liquidation or dissolution of Licensee and, including any transferee of all or substantially all of the assets of Licensee to any Person which carries on the business of Licensee.

 

61


(b) The benefit of the Holdings Guarantee shall run to Licensee and its heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns. The burden of the Holdings Guarantee shall bind Holdings and its heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns. The Holdings Guarantee shall apply to the Holdings Obligations of Licensor and of Licensor’s heirs, personal representatives, successors and assigns, including the successor to any Licensor upon any merger, consolidation, liquidation or dissolution of Licensor and, including any transferee of all or substantially all of the assets of any Licensor to any Person which carries on the business of any Licensor.

ARTICLE XX

MISCELLANEOUS

Section 20.1. Information Transmission . Each party shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide all statements and other information required to be provided to the other party pursuant to this Agreement in the format and medium reasonably requested by the other party.

Section 20.2. Notices . All notices, requests, claims, demands, waivers and other communications under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be by facsimile, courier services or personal delivery to the applicable addresses set forth on Schedule B, or at such other address as may be designated from time to time by a party in accordance with this Section 20.2 (in which case Schedule B shall be updated to reflect such new address and an updated copy of Schedule B shall be attached hereto). All notices and communications under this Agreement shall be deemed to have been duly given ( a ) when delivered by hand, if personally delivered, ( b ) when sent, if sent by facsimile, with an acknowledgement of sending being produced by the sending facsimile machine or ( c ) by one Business Day after when delivered to a courier, if delivered by commercial one-day overnight courier service and sent only within the United States.

Section 20.3. Amendment; Waiver . Any provision of this Agreement may be amended, supplemented, modified or waived if, and only if, such amendment, supplement, modification or waiver is in writing and signed, in the case of an amendment, supplement or modification, by Licensee and Licensor or, in the case of a waiver, by the party against whom the waiver is to be effective. No failure or delay by any party in exercising any right, power or privilege hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise thereof preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, power or privilege.

Section 20.4. Expenses . Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, each party will bear its own fees and expenses incident to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby.

Section 20.5. GOVERNING LAW; JURISDICTION; VENUE; SERVICE OF PROCESS; WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL . THIS AGREEMENT HAS BEEN NEGOTIATED, EXECUTED AND DELIVERED IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK AND SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE

 

62


LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO ANY PRINCIPLES OR RULES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW THAT WOULD CAUSE THE APPLICATION OF ANOTHER LAW. EACH PARTY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY AGREES THAT ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY MUST BE BROUGHT IN THE COURTS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK LOCATED IN NEW YORK CITY OR OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY SUBMITS TO THE PERSONAL JURISDICTION AND VENUE OF SUCH COURTS FOR THE PURPOSES THEREOF AND EXPRESSLY WAIVES ANY CLAIM OF IMPROPER VENUE AND ANY CLAIM THAT SUCH COURTS ARE AN INCONVENIENT FORUM. EACH PARTY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY CONSENTS TO THE SERVICE OF PROCESS OF ANY OF THE AFOREMENTIONED COURTS BY NOTICE IN THE MANNER SPECIFIED IN SECTION 20.2. EACH PARTY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY SUCH ACTION OR PROCEEDING.

Section 20.6. Relationship of the Parties .

(a) The parties acknowledge that none of Licensee or any sublicensee has been asked by Licensor to pay a direct or indirect franchise fee to Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate. The parties further acknowledge that is not the intent of the parties that Licensor enter into a franchise relationship with Licensee, any Company Affiliate or any of their respective sublicensees, and such rights as Licensor is provided by this Agreement are for the purpose of maintaining the integrity and value of the Licensed Marks, and such rights do not, and are not intended to, permit Licensor to control the business operations of Licensee, any Company Affiliate or any of their sublicensees, notwithstanding that some sublicensees may be Franchisees of Licensee or any Company Affiliate.

(b) The parties further acknowledge and agree that this Agreement does not create a fiduciary relationship between the parties, and each party hereto shall be an independent contractor. The parties are not partners, joint venturers, or agents or in a franchisor-franchisee relationship and nothing in this Agreement is intended by the parties to create, nor shall be construed to place them in, any such relationship.

Section 20.7. Severability . In the event that any one or more of the provisions contained herein, or the application thereof in any circumstance, is held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect for any reason, the validity, legality and enforceability of any such provision in every other respect and of the remaining provisions hereof shall not be in any way impaired, unless the provisions held invalid, illegal or unenforceable shall substantially impair the benefits of the remaining provisions hereof.

Section 20.8. Headings . The headings herein and in the table of contents hereto are for convenience purposes only, do not constitute a part of this Agreement, and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

63


Section 20.9. Entire Agreement . This Agreement and the Purchase Agreement, together with the exhibits and schedules referenced herein and therein, the Transition Services Agreement (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) and the other agreements, documents and instruments delivered in connection herewith and therewith, contain the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, with respect to such matters.

Section 20.10. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute one and the same agreement.

 

64


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have executed or caused this Agreement to be executed as of the date first written above.

 

SPTC, INC.
By:   /s/ William S. Sheridan
  Name: William S. Sheridan
  Title:   Vice President
SOTHEBY’S HOLDINGS, INC.
By:   /s/ William S. Sheridan
  Name: William S. Sheridan
  Title:   Executive Vice President and Chief             Financial Officer
CENDANT CORPORATION
By:   /s/ C. Patteson Cardwell, IV
  Name: C. Patteson Cardwell, IV
  Title:   Senior Vice President
MONTICELLO LICENSEE CORPORATION
By:   /s/ C. Patteson Cardwell, IV
  Name: C. Patteson Cardwell, IV
  Title:   Senior Vice President


S CHEDULE A

D OMAIN N AMES


S CHEDULE B

N OTICES


S CHEDULE C

T HE T ERRITORY


S CHEDULE D

I NDEMNIFICATION E XCEPTION


S CHEDULE 8.1(d)

R EGISTRATIONS


E XHIBIT A

E LIGIBLE SPV P ROVISIONS


E XHIBIT B

M ODEL C ODE OF E THICS


E XHIBIT C

M ODEL C O -M INGLING P ROVISIONS


E XHIBIT D

M ODEL Q UALITY C ONTROL P ROVISIONS


E XHIBIT E

A GREED C OMBINATION OF N AMES


E XHIBIT F

F EE S TATEMENT


E XHIBIT G

T RADEMARK U SAGE G UIDELINES

Exhibit 10.12(a)

EXECUTION COPY

AMENDMENT NO. 1

TO

TRADEMARK LICENSE AGREEMENT

THIS AMENDMENT TO TRADEMARK LICENSE AGREEMENT is made and entered into on this 2 nd day of May, 2005 by and among SPTC DELAWARE, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (as assignee of SPTC, Inc., a Delaware corporation) ( SPTC ) and SOTHEBY’S HOLDINGS, INC., a Michigan corporation ( Holdings ), on the one hand, and CENDANT CORPORATION, a Delaware Corporation ( Parent ) and SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY LICENSEE CORPORATION (f/k/a Monticello Licensee Corporation), a Delaware corporation (“ Licensee ”). Capitalized terms used herein and not defined herein shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the License Agreement (as defined below).

WHEREAS, SPTC, Holdings, Parent and Licensee entered into that certain Trademark License Agreement on February 17, 2004 (the “License Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, the parties hereby desire to amend the License Agreement to (i) modify the mutual referral program set forth in Article VI thereof, (ii) modify the definition of Authorized Brokerage Services to include, in certain circumstances, commercial real estate brokerage services, (iii) modify the manner in which Branded Operators may provide Excluded Services, and (iv) clarify that Licensee and Branded Operators can use the abbreviation “SIR” in internet domain names, each on the terms and conditions set forth herein.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing premises and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties agree as follows:

1. Referrals by Licensor . The first sentence of Section 6.1(a) is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

“(a) Licensee agrees to pay Licensor (or to a Licensor Affiliate designed by Licensor) a fee equal to 25% of any gross commission income per transaction side earned by Licensee or any Company Affiliate from the provision of Authorized Brokerage Services to a third party referred by Licensor or any Licensor Affiliate to the Licensee Group for such Authorized Brokerage Services, provided that such third party is not an Existing Brokerage Lead (it being understood that Licensee shall give first preference in transmitting any such referral to Branded Operators).”


2. Authorized Commercial Services .

2.1 A new Section 2.4 shall be added to the License Agreement as follows:

“Section 2.4. Authorized Commercial Services . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Commercial Qualifying Branded Operators shall be permitted to provide real estate brokerage services for commercial properties under the Licensed Marks, subject to the following conditions: (i) any such commercial real estate brokerage service is offered as a service ancillary to the provision of real estate brokerage services for Residential Real Estate and (ii) such Branded Operator shall not hold itself out as providing such commercial real estate brokerage services as its principal business or as being a stand-alone provider solely of such services (the provision of real estate brokerage services for commercial properties in compliance with (i) and (ii), Authorized Commercial Services ”) . “ Commercial Qualifying Branded Operator shall mean a Branded Operator whose aggregate listings of commercial properties marketed under the Licensed Marks pursuant to this Agreement do not exceed five percent (5%) of all listings marketed under the Licensed Marks pursuant to this Agreement by such Branded Operator in any calendar year (or portion thereof) included in the term of the agreement between Licensee (or a Company Affiliate) and such Branded Operator. Notwithstanding the foregoing, only Commercial Qualifying Branded Operators who have been authorized to provide, and shall be currently providing, Authorized Commercial Services under agreements in effect on February 17, 2014 shall be authorized to perform such services after such date, and only thereafter for so long as such agreements shall remain in effect.”

2.2 The definition of the term “Authorized Brokerage Services” as set forth in Section 1.1 is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

‘“ Authorized Brokerage Services shall mean (i) real estate brokerage services for Residential Real Estate or (ii) if applicable, Authorized Commercial Services offered in combination with real estate brokerage services for Residential Real Estate pursuant to and in accordance with Section 2.4.’

2.3 The definition of the term “Excluded Services” as set forth in Section 1.1 is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

‘“ Excluded Services shall mean (i) commercial real estate brokerage services (other than Authorized Commercial Services performed under the Licensed Marks pursuant to and in accordance with Section 2.4), (ii) Timeshare Brokerage Services, (iii) Residential Real Estate management and management services, other than as specifically included in the definition of


“Residential Real Estate” in the Agreement, (iv) real estate development services or products (whether as a developer or as an advisor or consultant or other service provider with respect to real estate developments), other than advice and consultation related to sales of Residential Real Estate within any development and (v) any other services relating to the foregoing or to any real estate brokerage services, in each case other than the Authorized Services.’

3. Excluded Services; Model Co-Mingling Provisions . Exhibit C to the License Agreement setting forth the Model Co-Mingling Provisions is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with amended and restated Exhibit C attached hereto. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the License Agreement, the parties further agree that so long as Licensee takes commercially reasonable steps (consistent with its past practices) to enforce the Model Co-Mingling Provisions (as amended hereby) on Branded Operators then Licensee shall not be deemed to be in breach of Section 7.5(a)(iii) of the License Agreement.

4. Domain Names . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the License Agreement (including but not limited to Sections 2.2 and 3.2), the parties acknowledge and agree that Licensee and Branded Operators are permitted to use the consecutive letters “SIR” (in upper or lower case) (the “Abbreviation”) as part of an internet domain name or Uniform Resource Locator relating to the provision of Authorized Services by such Person. In addition, Licensee (or any applicable Company Affiliate) may amend, in good faith, its Identity Standards Manual guidelines to include the use of such Abbreviation in domain names pursuant hereto.

5. Miscellaneous .

5.1 Counterparts . This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which, when taken together shall constitute one and the same agreement.

5.2 Heading . The headings herein are for convenience purposes only, do not constitute a part of this Amendment and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions of this Amendment.

5.3 License Agreement . This Amendment shall operate as an Amendment to the License Agreement. Except as expressly provided herein, the License Agreement is not amended, modified or affected by this Amendment, and the License Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto thereunder are hereby ratified and confirmed by the parties hereto in all respects.

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank; Signature Page Follows]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed as of the date first above written.

 

SPTC DELAWARE, LLC
By:   /s/ William S. Sheridan
Name:   William S. Sheridan
Title:   Vice President and Treasurer
SOTHEBY’S HOLDINGS, INC.
By:   /s/ William S. Sheridan
Name:   William S. Sheridan
Title:   Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
CENDANT CORPORATION
By:   /s/ C. Patteson Cardwell, IV
Name:   C. Patteson Cardwell, IV
Title:   Senior Vice President and Assistant Secretary
SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY LICENSEE CORPORATION
By:   /s/ Kim Vukanovich
Name:   Kim Vukanovich
Title:   Vice President


E XHIBIT C

M ODEL C O -M INGLING P ROVISIONS

Exhibit 10.12(b)

EXECUTION COPY

AMENDMENT NO. 2

TO

TRADEMARK LICENSE AGREEMENT

THIS AMENDMENT TO TRADEMARK LICENSE AGREEMENT is made and entered into on this 2 nd day of May, 2005 by and among SPTC DELAWARE, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (as assignee of SPTC, Inc., a Delaware corporation) ( SPTC ) and SOTHEBY’S HOLDINGS, INC., a Michigan corporation (“ Holdings ”), on the one hand, and CENDANT CORPORATION, a Delaware Corporation (“ Parent ”) and SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY LICENSEE CORPORATION (f/k/a Monticello Licensee Corporation), a Delaware corporation (“ Licensee ”) . Capitalized terms used herein and not defined herein shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the License Agreement (as defined below).

WHEREAS, SPTC, Holdings, Parent and Licensee entered into that certain Trademark License Agreement on February 17, 2004 (as heretofore amended, the “License Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, the parties hereby desire to amend the License Agreement to add the country of New Zealand to the Territory on the terms and conditions set forth herein.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing premises and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties agree as follows:

1. Addition of New Zealand to the Territory . The country of New Zealand is hereby added to the Territory.

1.1 Amendment of Schedule C . Schedule C is hereby amended by adding the country of New Zealand as part of the Territory.

1.2 Amendment of the Definition of “Territory .” The definition of “Territory” under Section 1.1 of the Agreement is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced and superceded by the following (new or revised language has been underscored ):

Territory ” shall mean the Original Territory and any country set forth in Schedule C, as amended, including, without limitation, any country added following any exercise of the Option and upon (and subject to) the grant of the license thereunder pursuant to the terms and conditions of Article 18.


2. Sharing of Development Fees for New Zealand . In the event that an initial franchise fee or development fee (“ Development Fee ) is paid to the Licensee Group in connection with the grant of a master franchise or sub franchise agreement for the country of New Zealand as permitted under Subsection 7.2(a) of the License Agreement, the Licensee Group shall pay to Licensor an amount equal to 35% of such Development Fees on the 15 th Business Day after the end of the calendar month in which such Development Fees are received by the Licensee Group.

3. Miscellaneous .

3.1 Counterparts . This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which, when taken together shall constitute one and the same agreement.

3.2 Heading . The headings herein are for convenience purposes only, do not constitute a part of this Amendment and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions of this Amendment.

3.3 License Agreement . This Amendment shall operate as an Amendment to the License Agreement. Except as expressly provided herein, the License Agreement is not amended, modified or affected by this Amendment, and the License Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto thereunder are hereby ratified and confirmed by the parties hereto in all respects.

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank; Signature Page Follows]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed as of the date first above written.

 

SPTC DELAWARE, LLC
By:   /s/ William S. Sheridan
Name:   William S. Sheridan
Title:   Vice President and Treasurer
SOTHEBY’S HOLDINGS, INC.
By:   /s/ William S. Sheridan
Name:   William S. Sheridan
Title:   Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
CENDANT CORPORATION
By:   /s/ C. Patteson Cardwell, IV
Name:   C. Patteson Cardwell, IV
Title:   Senior Vice President and Assistant Secretary

SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL

REALTY LICENSEE CORPORATION

By:   /s/ Kim Vukanovich
Name:   Kim Vukanovich
Title:   Vice President

Exhibit 10.13

LEASE

BETWEEN

ONE CAMPUS ASSOCIATES, L.L.C., as Lessor

AND

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., as Lessee

DATED: December 29, 2000


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

1.   DESCRIPTION    1
2.   TERM    1
3.   BASIC RENT    1
4.   USE AND OCCUPANCY    3
5.   CARE AND REPAIR OF PREMISES/ENVIRONMENTAL    3
  (A)    Care and Repair    3
  (B)    Compliance with Environmental Laws    4
  (C)    ISRA Compliance    4
  (D)    Information to Lessor    4
  (E)    Lessor Audit    4
  (F)    Lessee Remediation    5
  (G)    Environmental Questionnaire    5
  (H)    Environmental Documents and Conditions    5
  (I)    Lessor’s Right to Perform Lessee’s Obligations    5
  (J)    Indemnity    6
  (K)    Survival    7
  (L)    Interpretation    7
  (M)    Lessor’s Representation    7
6.   ALTERATIONS, ADDITIONS OR IMPROVEMENTS    7
7.   ACTIVITIES INCREASING FIRE INSURANCE RATES    8
8.   INTENTIONALLY OMITTED    8
9.   ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLEASE    8
10.   COMPLIANCE WITH RULES AND REGULATIONS    12
11.   DAMAGES TO BUILDING/WAIVER OF SUBROGATION    12
12.   EMINENT DOMAIN    13
13.   INSOLVENCY OF LESSEE    13
14.   LESSOR’S REMEDIES ON DEFAULT    14
15.   DEFFICIENCY    14
16.   SUBORDINATION OF LEASE    15
17.   SECURITY DEPOSIT    16
18.   RIGHT TO CURE BREACH    17
19.   LIENS    17
20.   RIGHT TO INSPECT AND REPAIR    18
21.   UTILITIES AND ELECTRICAL SERVICE    18
22.   OTHER SERVICES TO BE ARRANGED FOR BY LESSOR    18
23.   INTERRUPTION OF SERVICES    19
24.   ADDITIONAL RENT    20
  (A)    Operating Cost Escalation    20
  (B)    Payment    22
  (C)    Lease Year    22
  (D)    Books and Records    22
  (E)    Right of Review    22
25.   REAL ESTATE TAXES    23

 

i


26.   LESSEE’S ESTOPPEL    25
27.   HOLDOVER TENANCY    25
28.   RIGHT TO SHOW PREMISES    25
29.   WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY    26
30.   LATE CHARGE    26
31.   NO OTHER REPRESENTATIONS    26
32.   QUIET ENJOYMENT    26
33.   INSURANCE    26
34.   RULES OF CONSTRUCTION/APPLICABLE LAW    29
35.   APPLICABILITY TO SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS    30
36.   PARKING SPACES    30
37.   LESSOR’S AND LESSEE’S EXCULPATION    30
38.   BROKER    31
39.   PERSONAL LIABILITY    31
40.   NO OPTION    32
41.   DEFINITIONS    32
  (A)   Additional Rent    32
  (B)   Affiliated Company    32
  (C)   Force Majeure    32
  (D)   Wing(s)    33
42.   LEASE COMMENCEMENT    33
43.   NOTICES    33
44.   INTENTIONALLY OMITTED    33
45.   24-HOUR ACCESS    33
46.   ACCORD AND SATISFACTION    33
47.   EFFECT OF WAIVERS    34
48.   NUMBER AND GENDER    34
49.   LESSOR’S RESERVED RIGHT    34
50.   INDEMNITY    34
  (A)   Lessee’s Indemnity    34
  (B)   Lessor’s Indemnity    35
51.   CORPORATE AUTHORITY    35
52.   GOVERNMENT REQUIREMENTS    35
53.   SIGNS    36
54.   RENEWAL OPTION    36
55.   FEES AND EXPENSES    38
56.   ADDITIONAL BUILDING    38
  (A)   Expansion    38
  (B)   Common Facilities    38
  (C)   Lessee’s Proportionate Share    38
  (D)   Parking    38
57.   RIGHT OF FIRST OFFER    39
58.   WORK ALLOWANCE/EARLY OCCUPANCY    40
59.   BUILDING MANAGEMENT    41

 

ii


60.   SALE OF DEMISED PREMISES    41
61.   GUARANTY    42
62.   RECORDING    42
63.   ROOFTOP EQUIPMENT    42
64.   COUNTERPARTS    42

 

iii


LEASE , made the 29 day of December, 2000, between ONE CAMPUS ASSOCIATES, L.L.C., a New Jersey limited partnership, whose address is c/o Gale & Wentworth Real Estate Advisors, L.L.C., 200 Campus Drive, Suite 200, Florham Park, New Jersey 07932 (hereinafter referred to as “ Lessor ”); and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., a corporation of the State of Delaware, whose address is 6 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (hereinafter referred to as “ Lessee ”).

1. DESCRIPTION . Lessor hereby leases to Lessee and Lessee hereby hires from Lessor, the “ Demised Premises ” or “ Premises ”, consisting of a building of approximately 377,000 square feet located at One Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey (hereinafter called the “ Building ”), and that certain parcel of land and improvements therein (hereinafter called “ Office Building Area ”), as described on Exhibit A attached hereto and made part of this Lease. Lessee acknowledges that it has inspected the Premises, that it is fully familiar with the condition of the Premises, and that it is leasing same in “AS IS” condition, subject only to the terms set forth in Sections 10, 21, 22 and 58 of this Lease.

2. TERM . The term of this Lease and the demise of the Demised Premises shall be for twelve (12) years beginning November 1,2001 (the “ Commencement Date ”) and ending October 31, 2013 or on such earlier or later commencement or termination, as hereinafter set forth (which term is hereinafter called the “ Term ” or “ Lease Term ”).

3. BASIC RENT .

(A) Lessee shall pay to Lessor, during the Term without counterclaim, deduction or setoff, rent in the amount of One Hundred Three Million Two Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Three Hundred Eighty and 00/100 ($103,275,380.00) Dollars (hereinafter referred to as “ Term Basic Rent ”), payable in such coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment shall be legal tender for the payment of public and private debts. The Term Basic Rent shall accrue as follows:

 

Period

   Annual Basic
Rent
   Monthly Basic
Rent

11/01/2001-10/31/2006

   $ 7,934,390.00    $ 661,949.16

11/01/2006-10/31/2011

   $ 8,810,490.00    $ 734,207.50

11/01/2011-10/31/2013

   $ 9,752,990.00    $ 812,749.16

(B) The aforesaid installments of Monthly Basic Rent shall be payable in advance on the first day of each calendar month during the Term, except that a proportionately lesser sum may be paid for the first and last months of the Term of this Lease if the Term commences on a date other than the first day of the month, in accordance with the provisions of this Lease hereinafter set forth.


COPR. 2000 DOLLINGER & DOLLINGER, P.A.

The Monthly Basic Rent and Additional Rent, if any, shall be payable at the office of Lessor, at the address above set forth, or as may otherwise be directed by notice from Lessor to Lessee.

(C) Lessee shall, and will, during the Term well and truly pay, or cause to be paid, to Lessor, the Monthly Basic Rent as herein provided and all other sums that may become due and payable by Lessee, hereunder, at the time and in the manner herein provided, without counterclaim, offset or deduction; and all other sums due and payable by Lessee hereunder may, at Lessor’s option, be deemed to be, and treated as, Additional Rent, and added to any Monthly Basic Rent due and payable by Lessee hereunder, and, in the event of nonpayment of such other sums, Lessor shall have all the rights and remedies herein provided for in the case of the nonpayment of rent, or of a breach of any covenant to be performed by Lessee.

(D) As used in this Lease, Basic Rent shall mean either Term Basic Rent, Annual Basic Rent or Monthly Basic Rent, as appropriate.

(E) On or before March 15, 2001, Lessee shall pay Lessor the sum of Six Hundred Three Thousand Two Hundred and 00/100 ($603,200.00) Dollars, as advance Monthly Basic Rent for the first month of Lessee’s rental obligation, provided that on or before March 15, 2001, Lessor shall pay Broker twenty-five (25%) of the commission due to Broker pursuant to the commission agreement described in Section 38 hereof.

 

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4. USE AND OCCUPANCY . Lessee shall use and occupy the Premises only for general offices and other lawful purposes associated and related thereto, excluding those uses prohibited under Section 9(B)(v) hereof, but including the following ancillary uses: ATM machines; food service; gym facility; day care facility for Lessee’s employees only; data control center; reservation center; sundry shop or similar ancillary retail facility.

5. CARE AND REPAIR OF PREMISES/ENVIRONMENTAL .

(A) Care and Repair. Lessee covenants to commit no act of waste and to take good care of the Premises and the fixtures and appurtenances therein, and shall redecorate, paint and renovate the Premises as may be necessary to keep the same in good condition and appearance. Subject to Section 24 hereof, Lessor shall perform all other repairs to and maintenance of the Demised Premises, the Building Structure, the Building Systems and roof membrane, unless such repairs or maintenance are made necessary due to the negligence of Lessee, its agents, employees, contractors or invitees, and are not covered by insurance, in which event Section 24 shall not apply thereto and Lessee shall pay or reimburse Lessor for the entire cost thereof to the extent not covered by the insurance maintained or required to be maintained by Lessor pursuant to Section 33A(i) and (ii). When used in this Section 5(A) and in Section 24, the term “ repairs ” shall mean all ordinary and extraordinary repairs, replacements and/or renewals, which shall be equal in quality and class to the original work. Lessee shall, in the use and occupancy of the Premises, comply with all present and future laws, orders and regulations of the federal, state and municipal governments or any of their departments affecting the Premises, to include payment of any costs of compliance with laws resulting from Lessor’s recapture of any space pursuant to Section 9 hereof; this covenant to survive the expiration or sooner termination of this Lease. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Lease, Lessor shall be solely responsible to comply with laws applicable to the design of the existing system of detention and drainage and the discharge of storm water from the Office Building Area to any wetlands, brook or stream. Notwithstanding Lessor’s obligation, subject to Section 24 hereof, to repair and maintain the Demised Premises, the Building Structure, the Building Systems and roof membrane, any repairs to the Demised Premises required to be made by any laws enacted after the date of this Lease (“Future Laws”) shall be made by Lessor entirely at Lessee’s expense to the extent that such repairs are required (1) solely because of any work done by Lessee in the Demist. Premises or (2) by Lessee’s specific use of the Demised Premises (as distinguished from use of the Premises for general offices) and/or to the extent such repairs are necessary due to the negligence of Lessee, its agents, employees, contractors or invitees, and are not covered by the insurance maintained or required to be maintained by Lessor pursuant to Section 33(A)(i) and (ii). The cost of any repairs to the Demised Premises required to be made by any such Future Laws which are required due to the use of the Building as general offices shall, to the extent compliance is required because the conditions requiring compliance are not grandfathered, and to the extent permitted pursuant to this Lease, be included in Building Operating Costs and amortized as provided in Subsection 24(A). All improvements made by Lessee to the Premises, which are so attached to the Premises that they cannot be removed without material injury to the Premises, shall become the property of Lessor upon installation. Not later than the last day of the Term, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s expense, remove all Lessee’s personal property, and those improvements made by Lessee which have not become the property of Lessor, including trade fixtures, movable paneling, and partitions; repair all injury done by or in connection with the installation or removal of said property and improvements and surrender the Premises in as good condition as they were at the beginning of the Term, except where the damage was caused by Lessor or where repairs were required to be performed by Lessor, reasonable wear and tear and damage by fire, the elements, or casualty excepted. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee shall not be required to remove any wiring or cabling or data equipment installed in connection with Lessee’s business. All other property of Lessee remaining on the Premises after the last day of the Term of this Lease shall be conclusively deemed abandoned and may be removed by Lessor, and Lessee shall reimburse Lessor for the cost of such removal. Lessor may have any such property stored at Lessee’s risk and expense.

 

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(B) Compliance with Environmental Laws . Subject to the provisions of Section 5(A) above, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s own expense, promptly comply with each and every federal, state, county and municipal environmental law, ordinance, rule, regulation, order, directive and requirement imposing liability for protection of the environment, now or hereafter existing, (“ Environmental Laws ”), applicable to the Premises, Lessee, Lessee’s operations at the Premises, or all of them. Lessor shall procure insurance with respect to the presence of Contaminants at the Premises due to the acts of third parties unrelated to Lessee, at Lessee’s sole cost and as between Lessor and Lessee, Lessee shall solely be liable for the presence of such Contaminants at the Premises due to such acts of third parties unrelated to Lessee. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, Lessee shall have no liability for any cost or expense for compliance with Environmental Laws in connection with the presence of Contaminants or any other environmental condition requiring remediation as of the date of this Lease which (i) pre-existed Lessee’s occupancy of the Premises; or (ii) were caused or created by Lessor, its agents, contractors or employees; or (iii) are present at the Premises due to migration from other sites; or to the extent the conditions described in clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) above were not exacerbated by Lessee, its agents, contractors or employees and except where Lessee had knowledge of such Contaminants or environmental condition requiring remediation and failed to notify Lessor as soon as reasonably possible of same unless Lessor had independent knowledge or reasonably should have had independent knowledge of same. In addition, Lessee shall have no liability for any cost or expense for compliance with Environmental Laws in connection with the presence of Contaminants or any other environmental condition, irrespective of whether or not the same require remediation as of the date of this Lease, which preexisted Lessee’s occupancy of the Premises and which (a) are present on or in the ground within the Office Building Area; or (b) affect the Building Structure; or (c) consist of lead paint, asbestos floor tiles, external transformers containing PCBs, and underground piping connected to a formerly existing 10,000 gallon gasoline tank, to the extent the conditions described in clauses (a), (b) and (c) were not exacerbated by Lessee, its agents, contractors or employees. For purposes of this Section 5, Lessee’s knowledge shall be deemed to be the actual knowledge, without independent investigation, of Thomas Hocker, Lessee’s on-site contact person, or his successor (the “ Responsible Informant ”), all provided that a reasonable person confronted with the information known to the Responsible Informant would understand the same to be a Contaminant or environmental condition requiring remediation.

(C) ISRA Compliance . Lessee shall, at Lessee’s own expense, comply with the Industrial Site Recovery Act, N.J.S.A. 13:1K-6 et seq ., the regulations promulgated thereunder and any amending and successor legislation and regulations (“ ISRA ”).

(D) Information to Lessor . At no expense to Lessor, Lessee shall promptly provide all information in Lessee’s possession and sign all documents reasonably requested by Lessor with respect to compliance with Environmental Laws.

(E) Lessor Audit . Lessee shall permit Lessor and its representatives access to the Premises, once each calendar year, to conduct an environmental assessment, investigation and sampling, all at Lessor’s own expense. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessor may conduct additional environmental assessments, investigations and sampling by consultants reasonably acceptable to Lessee where Lessor shall have a reasonable basis to believe that Contaminants (as

 

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defined in Subsection 5(L)) are present at the Premises. In the event that the presence of such Contaminants is due to the act or omission of Lessee which shall constitute an Event of Default under this Lease, in addition to Lessee’s obligations set forth in Subsection 5(F), Lessee shall pay for the reasonable cost of such additional environmental assessments, investigations and sampling as may be reasonably required to determine the extent of any contamination caused by Lessee.

(F) Lessee Remediation . Should any assessment, investigation or sampling reveal the existence of any spill, discharge or placement of Contaminants in, on, under, or migrating from or on to the Building or the Office Building Area, as a result of the action or omission of Lessee or a Lessee Representative (as hereinafter defined), constituting an Event of Default, at Lessor’s sole option, (i) Lessee shall, at Lessee’s own expense, in accordance with Environmental Laws, undertake all action required by any governmental authority having jurisdiction, including, without limitation, promptly obtaining and delivering to Lessor an unconditional No Further Action Letter (which may permit institutional or engineering controls but may not permit the posting of any notice), or (ii) Lessor shall undertake the action described in the foregoing subsection (i) at Lessee’s sole cost. For purposes of this Section 5, the term “ Lessee Representative ” shall mean any shareholder, officer, director, member, partner, employee, agent, licensee, assignee, sublessee or invitee of Lessee, or any third party present as a result of Lessee’s business activities other than Lessor, or another lessee of the Building or Office Building Area, or a shareholder, officer, director, member, partner, employee, agent, licensee, assignee, sublessee or invitee of any of the foregoing. In no event shall any of Lessee’s remedial action involve engineering or institutional controls, a groundwater classification exception area, or well restriction area, and Lessee’s remedial action shall meet the applicable governmental remediation standards for soil, surface water, groundwater and drinking water. Promptly upon completion of all required investigatory and remedial activities, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s own expense, to Lessor’s reasonable satisfaction, restore the affected area of the Building or the Office Building Area, as the case may be, from any damage or condition caused by the investigatory or remedial work.

(G) Environmental Questionnaire . Upon Lessor’s request, no later than thirty (30) days following the signing and delivery of this Lease, and thereafter upon renewal of this Lease, if at all, Lessee shall complete, execute and deliver to Lessor an environmental questionnaire in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Lessor.

(H) Environmental Documents and Conditions . For purposes of this Section 5, the term “ Environmental Documents ” shall mean all environmental studies concerning the Building or the Office Building Area, of which the Premises is a part, or its environs, commissioned by Lessee and submissions made by Lessee to any governmental agency (or demands or citations received by Lessee from any governmental agency) pertaining to Environmental Laws in the possession or under the control of Lessee, including, without limitation, plans, reports, correspondence and submissions. During the Term of this Lease and, subsequently, promptly upon receipt by Lessee or a Lessee Representative, Lessee shall deliver to Lessor all Environmental Documents concerning or generated by or on behalf of Lessee pertaining to the Premises, whether currently or hereafter existing.

(I) Lessor’s Right to Perform Lessee’s Obligations . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Lease, in the event, pursuant to this Lease, Lessee is required to

 

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undertake any sampling, assessment, investigation or remediation with respect to the Building or the Office Building Area, as the case may be, then, at Lessor’s discretion, Lessor shall have the right, upon notice to Lessee, from time to time, to perform such activities at Lessee’s expense, and all reasonable sums incurred by Lessor shall be paid by Lessee, as Additional Rent, within thirty (30) days of Lessor’s invoice therefor. Notwithstanding the foregoing, except in the case of emergencies, Lessor shall not perform such obligations of Lessee prior to the service of notice and the expiration of the applicable cure periods set forth in Section 14 hereof.

(J) Indemnity . Lessee shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Lessor, Lessor’s officers, directors, shareholders, employees and personal or legal representatives from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, penalties and costs, foreseen or unforeseen, including, without limitation, reasonable counsel, engineering and other professional or expert fees, which an indemnified party may incur resulting directly or indirectly, wholly or partly from Lessee’s actions or omissions which shall constitute an Event of Default under this Lease with regard to Lessee’s obligations for the environmental clean-up costs under this Section to the extent that Lessee’s acts or omissions or those of its agents, contractors or employees contributed to or exacerbated the contaminations for which environmental clean-up costs may be incurred by an indemnified party. Lessor agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Lessee, the Guarantor, their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and personal or legal representatives from and against any and all environmental cleanup costs, administrative and remediation costs (including NJDEP oversight costs and natural resource damages), reasonable attorneys’ fees, investigatory costs, engineering fees and professional or other experts’ fees, fines and penalties levied or assessed in connection with compliance with the Environmental Laws (herein “ Environmental Costs ”), and/or any and all claims by and/or liabilities to third persons for Environmental Costs, which may be incurred by or asserted against Lessee, the Guarantor, their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and personal or legal representatives as a result of (i) any Contaminants or environmental condition requiring remediation caused or created by Lessor’s acts or omissions or those of its agents, contractors or employees or (ii) determined to have been in existence at the Building or Office Building Area prior to the Commencement Date of this Lease, if remediation is required, to the extent Lessee or its agents, contractors or employees have not exacerbated any such pre-existing condition. In addition to Environmental Costs, Lessor shall indemnify and hold harmless Lessee, the Guarantor, their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and personal or legal representatives from any and all third party claims, liabilities, losses, damages, including NJDEP oversight costs and natural resource damages, foreseen or unforeseen, including, without limitation, reasonable counsel fees incurred by Lessee as a result of any Contaminants or environmental condition caused or created by Lessor’s acts or omissions or those of its agents, contractors or employees or determined to have been in existence at the Building or Office Building Area prior to the Commencement Date of this Lease, except to the extent the presence of Contaminants was exacerbated by or contributed to by Lessee or its agents, contractors or employees. Where Lessee’s acts or omissions or those of its agents, contractors or employees have exacerbated any such pre-existing condition, Lessor’s obligations as set forth in this Subsection 5(J) shall not apply to the extent of any costs incurred as a result of such exacerbation by Lessee or its agents, contractors or employees. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Subsection 5(J), Lessor shall indemnify Lessee, the Guarantor, their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and personal or legal representatives for their costs of defense, to include without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and

 

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experts’ fees with respect to any claims brought by third parties arising out of the presence of Contaminants or any environmental condition requiring remediation at the Building or Office Building Area where Lessee has been finally adjudicated not to be responsible for the presence or exacerbation of any such Contaminants or environmental condition requiring remediation.

(K) Survival . This Section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease. Lessee’s failure to abide by the terms of this Section shall be restrainable or enforceable, as the case may be, by injunction.

(L) Interpretation . The obligations imposed upon Lessee under Subsections 5(B) through 5(J) are in addition to and are not intended to limit, but to expand upon, the obligations imposed upon Lessee under Subsection 5(A). As used in this Section 5, the term “Contaminants” shall include, without limitation, any regulated substance, toxic substance, hazardous substance, hazardous waste, pollution, pollutant, contaminant, petroleum, asbestos or polychlorinated biphenyls, as defined or referred to in any Environmental Laws. Where a law or regulation defines any of these terms more broadly than another, the broader definition shall apply. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, Lessee shall be permitted to keep normal office supplies and any chemicals necessary to operate Lessee’s business systems in reasonable quantities which may be included as Contaminants such as cleaning supplies and copier supplies, provided the same are stored, handled and disposed of in full compliance with all Environmental Laws.

(M) Lessor’s Representation . Lessor hereby represents to Lessee that: (i) based solely upon the Phase I Environmental Site Assessment dated July 7, 2000 and supplemented by letter dated December 6, 2000, prepared by Environmental Waste Management Associates, LLC, and the prior reports referenced therein, including the Phase I Environmental Site Assessment prepared by Malcolm Pirnie, Inc. in November of 1995, and without any independent inquiry and except as may be indicated to the contrary in said reports, Lessor believes that there are no Contaminants present at the Building or Office Building Area in quantities exceeding actionable levels; (ii) to the best of Lessor’s knowledge, without any independent investigation, there is no friable asbestos present in the Building; (iii) Lessor has received no notices, complaints or demands relative to the environmental condition of the Building or the Office Building Area; and (iv) Lessor has no actual knowledge that any information set forth in the reports listed on Exhibit B attached hereto, which have been provided to Lessee is incorrect in any material respect.

6. ALTERATIONS, ADDITIONS OR IMPROVEMENTS . Lessee shall not, without first obtaining the written consent of Lessor, make any alterations, additions or improvements in, to or about the Premises, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; provided that, with respect to alterations, additions or improvements which affect the Building Structure or Building Systems, as a condition to Lessor’s consent, Lessor may direct Lessee to restore the alteration, addition or improvement to its prior condition, at the expiration or sooner termination of this Lease. As used herein, “ Building Structure ” shall include the exterior load-bearing walls (excluding windows and glass), foundation, roof, and structural steel framework, and “ Building Systems ” shall include heating, ventilation and air-conditioning, plumbing and electrical systems and the elevators.

 

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7. ACTIVITIES INCREASING FIRE INSURANCE RATES . Lessee shall not do or suffer anything to be done on the Premises in violation of this Lease which will increase the rate of fire insurance on the Building.

8. INTENTIONALLY OMITTED.

9. ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLEASE. Lessee may not mortgage, pledge, hypothecate, assign, transfer or sublet this Lease or the Premises in any manner except as specifically provided for in this Section 9:

(A) Lessee shall notify Lessor in writing of the opportunity to recapture all or any number of full Wing(s) (as defined in Subsection 4 ID) of the Building without any requirement that Lessee first enter into a proposed sublease or assignment or any letter of intent, following which Lessor shall have 10 business days to notify Lessee in writing as to whether or not Lessor elects, in its sole judgment, to recapture all or any number of such full Wing(s). If Lessor elects to recapture all or any number of such full Wing(s), Lessee shall be fully released from any and all obligations with respect to such recaptured space thereafter accruing and Lessor shall abide by the terms of Subsections 9(B)(i), (iv), (v) and (vi) with respect to such recaptured space. Lessee may seek to assign or sublease all or any number of such full Wing(s) which Lessor has elected not to recapture as hereinafter provided in this Section 9.

(B) The terms and conditions of any proposed assignment of this Lease, or sublease of all or a portion of the Premises, to include any space which Lessor has elected not to recapture, shall be communicated to Lessor prior to the effective date thereof and shall be subject to the written consent of Lessor, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld and shall be granted or denied within five (5) business days, provided and upon condition that:

 

  (i) In Lessor’s reasonable judgment, the proposed assignee or subtenant is engaged in a business or activity, and the Premises, or the relevant part thereof, will be used in a manner, which (a) is in keeping with the then standard of the Building, (b) is limited to the use of the Premises permitted under Section 4 hereof;

 

  (ii) The form of the proposed sublease or instrument of assignment shall comply with the applicable provisions of this Section 9 and shall not be inconsistent with the terms of this Lease;

 

  (iii) Lessee shall not advertise the subtenancy for less than the then current market rent per rentable square foot for the Premises as though the Premises were vacant;

 

  (iv) The proposed occupancy shall not, in Lessor’s reasonable opinion, increase the density of population using the Demised Premises to exceed one (1) person per 150 gross rentable square feet of space or exceed the parking allocation presently provided for in this Lease;

 

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  (v) The proposed assignee or subtenant shall not be engaged in any of the following prohibited uses:

 

  (a) educational, including but not limited to, instructional facilities and correspondence schools;

 

  (b) employment agencies;

 

  (c) model agencies;

 

  (d) photographic studios or laboratories;

 

  (e) spas, health, physical fitness or exercise salons;

 

  (f) small loan offices;

 

  (g) medical or dental facilities, including professional offices, treatment facilities, dispensaries or laboratories;

 

  (h) federal, state or local government offices;

 

  (i) so-called boiler room operations;

 

  (j) retail stock brokerage offices; and

 

  (k) religious organizations making facilities available to congregations for uses other than business purposes.

 

  (vi) The proposed assignee or subtenant shall not be entitled, directly or indirectly, to diplomatic or sovereign immunity and shall be subject to the service of process in, and the jurisdiction of, the state courts of New Jersey.

(C) Any permitted assignee shall assume, by written instrument, all of the obligations of this Lease, and a copy of such assumption agreement shall be furnished to Lessor within ten (10) days of its execution. Any permitted sublease shall expressly acknowledge in writing that said sublessee’s rights against the Lessor shall be no greater than those of the Lessee.

(D) The Lessee and each assignee shall be and remain liable for the observance of all the covenants and provisions of this Lease, including, but not limited to, the payment of Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent reserved herein as and when required to be paid, through the entire Term of this Lease, as the same may be renewed, extended or otherwise modified.

(E) The Lessee and any assignee shall promptly pay to Lessor one-half (1/2) of any net consideration received for any assignment or one-half (1/2) of the net rent (Basic and Additional), as and when received in excess of the Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent required to be paid by Lessee for the period affected by said assignment or sublease for the area sublet, computed on the basis of an average square foot rent for the gross square footage Lessee has leased. As used herein, net consideration and/or net rent shall mean gross rent (Basic and Additional) or gross consideration less normal and customary brokerage fees that would be payable to a licensed broker, reasonable legal fees, leasehold improvements and rent concessions for the assignment or sublet, said costs and expenses to be amortized over the term of the assignment or sublet.

(F) In any event, the acceptance by Lessor of any rent (Basic and Additional) from the assignee or from any of the subtenants or the failure of Lessor to insist upon a strict performance of any of the terms, conditions and covenants herein shall not release Lessee herein, nor any assignee assuming this Lease, from any and all of the obligations herein during and for the entire Term of this Lease.

 

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(G) Lessor shall require a Five Hundred and 00/100 ($500.00) Dollar payment to cover its handling charges for each request for consent to any sublet or assignment prior to its consideration of the same; provided, however, that there shall be no such charge in connection with the recapturing of any Wing(s) by Lessor.

(H) Lessee shall have no claim, and hereby waives the right to any claim, against Lessor for money damages by reason of any refusal, withholding or delaying by Lessor of any consent, approval or statement of satisfaction, and in such event, Lessee’s only remedies therefor shall be an action for specific performance, injunction or declaratory judgment to enforce any such requirement.

(I) Any sublet of less than a full Wing of the Building or a sublet of all or part of the Premises or an assignment of this Lease to an “Affiliated Company” as hereinafter defined shall not be subject to the provisions of Subsections 9(A), 9(E) or 9(G) hereof and shall not require Lessor’s prior written consent, but all other provisions of this Section shall apply and Lessee shall serve Lessor with prior notice of same.

(J) In the event that any or all of Lessee’s interest in the Premises and/or this Lease is transferred by operation of law to any trustee, receiver, or other representative or agent of Lessee, or to Lessee as a debtor in possession, and subsequently any or all of Lessee’s interest in the Premises and/or this Lease is offered or to be offered by Lessee or any trustee, receiver, or other representative or agent of Lessee as to its estate or property (such person, firm or entity being hereinafter referred to as the “ Grantor ”), for assignment, conveyance, lease, or other disposition to a person, firm or entity other than Lessor (each such transaction being hereinafter referred to as a “ Disposition ”), it is agreed that Lessor has and shall have a right of first refusal to purchase, take, or otherwise acquire, the same upon the same terms and conditions as the Grantor thereof shall accept upon such Disposition to such other person, firm, or entity; and as to each such Disposition the Grantor shall give written notice to Lessor in reasonable detail of all of the terms and conditions of such Disposition within twenty (20) days next following its determination to accept the same but prior to accepting the same, and Grantor shall not make the Disposition until and unless Lessor has failed or refused to accept such right of first refusal as to the Disposition, as set forth herein.

Lessor shall have sixty (60) days next following its receipt of the written notice as to such Disposition in which to exercise the option to acquire Lessee’s interest by such Disposition, and the exercise of the option by Lessor shall be effected by notice to that effect sent to the Grantor; but nothing herein shall require Lessor to accept a particular Disposition or any Disposition, nor does the rejection of any one such offer of first refusal constitute a waiver or release of the obligation of the Grantor to submit other offers hereunder to Lessor. In the event Lessor accepts such offer of first refusal, the transaction shall be consummated pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Disposition described in the notice to Lessor. In the event Lessor rejects such offer of first refusal, Grantor may consummate the Disposition with such other person, firm, or entity; but any decrease in price of more than two (2%) percent of the price sought from Lessor or any change in the terms of payment for such Disposition shall constitute a new transaction requiring a further option of first refusal to be given to Lessor hereunder.

 

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(K) If pursuant to the Federal Bankruptcy Code (herein the “ Code ”), or any similar law hereafter enacted having the same general purpose, Lessee is permitted to assign this Lease notwithstanding the restrictions contained in this Lease, adequate assurance of future performance by an assignee expressly permitted under such Code shall be deemed to mean the deposit of cash security in an amount equal to one (1) year’s Annual Basic Rent and Additional Rent for the next succeeding twelve (12) months (which Additional Rent shall be reasonably estimated by Lessor), which deposit shall be held by Lessor for the balance of the Term, without interest, as Additional Security Deposit as hereinafter defined for the full performance of all of Lessee’s obligations under this Lease, to be held and applied in the manner specified for security in Section 17.

(L) Except as specifically set forth above, no portion of the Demised Premises or of Lessee’s interest in this Lease may be acquired by any other person or entity, whether by assignment, mortgage, sublease, transfer, operation of law or act of the Lessee, nor shall Lessee pledge its interest in this Lease or in any security deposit required hereunder.

(M) If Lessee is a corporation other than a corporation whose stock is listed and traded on a nationally recognized stock exchange, the provisions of this Section 9 shall apply to a transfer (however accomplished, whether in a single transaction or in a series of related or unrelated transactions) of stock [or any other mechanism such as, by way of example, the issuance of additional stock, a stock voting agreement or change in class(es) of stock] which results in a change of control of Lessee as if such transfer of stock (or other mechanism) which results in a change of control of Lessee were an assignment of this Lease, and if Lessee is a partnership or joint venture, the provisions of this Section 9 shall apply with respect to a transfer (by one or more transfers) of an interest in the distributions of profits and losses of such partnership or joint venture (or other mechanism, such as, by way of example, the creation of additional general partnership or limited partnership interests) which results in a change of control of such a partnership or joint venture as if such transfer of an interest in the distributions of profits and losses of such partnership or joint venture which results in a change of control of such partnership or joint venture were an assignment of this Lease; but the provisions of this Section 9 shall not apply to transactions with a corporation into or with which Lessee is merged or consolidated or to which all or substantially all of Lessee’s assets or stock are transferred or to any corporation which controls or is controlled by Lessee or is under common control with Lessee, provided that in the event of such merger, consolidation, transfer, public offering or reorganization of all or substantially all of Lessee’s assets or stock, (i) the successor to Lessee has a net worth computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles at least equal to the greater of (a) the net worth of Lessee immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or transfer or (b) the net worth of Lessee herein named on the date of this Lease, and (ii) proof satisfactory to Lessor of such net worth shall have been delivered to Lessor promptly following the effective date of any such transaction.

(N) Lessee’s rights as set forth in Sections 54 and 57 shall be deemed null and void in the event that Lessee or its Affiliated Companies are in possession of less than five (5) Wings in the Building.

 

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(O) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Section 9, Lessee shall have the right to select and enter into agreements with vendors for the operation of Lessee’s gym and cafeteria facilities without Lessor’s consent.

(P) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Section 9, subject to their compliance with applicable laws, Lessee may allow third party vendors to use the Building lobby, without the consent of Lessor; provided, however, that at such time as the Building may be occupied by tenants other than Lessee, by virtue of Lessor’s recapture of space within the Demised Premises, such vendors may use only such floors of the Building as may then be fully occupied solely by Lessee or its Affiliates.

10. COMPLIANCE WITH RULES AND REGULATIONS . At such time, if ever, and for so long as the Building may become a multi-tenant building, Lessee shall observe and comply with the rules and regulations hereinafter set forth in Exhibit C attached hereto and made a part hereof and with such further reasonable rules and regulations as Lessor may prescribe, on written notice to Lessee, for the safety, care and cleanliness of the Building and the comfort, quiet and convenience of other occupants of the Building. Lessee shall not place a load upon any floor of the Demised Premises exceeding the floor load per square foot area which it was designed to carry and which is allowed by law. Based solely on the Property Condition Report of Eckland Consultants Inc. dated July 5, 2000 (the “ Eckland Report ”) and without having made any other or independent investigation, Lessor believes that the upper two (2) floors of the Building are able to support a live load of eighty (80) pounds per square foot and a dead load of one hundred (100) pounds per square foot. Lessor reserves the right to prescribe the weight and position of all safes, business machines and mechanical equipment. Such installations shall be placed and maintained by Lessee, at Lessee’s expense, in settings sufficient, in Lessor’s judgment, to absorb and prevent vibration, noise and annoyance. To the extent Lessor enforces such rules and regulations, the same shall be done in a nondiscriminatory manner among all Building tenants. Any modifications to such rules and regulations shall not unreasonably increase Lessee’s obligations or unreasonably decrease Lessee’s rights hereunder.

11 . DAMAGES TO BUILDING/WAIVER OF SUBROGATION . If the Building is damaged by fire or any other cause to such extent that the cost of restoration, as reasonably estimated by Lessor, will equal or exceed twenty-five (25%) percent of the replacement value of the Building (exclusive of foundations) just prior to the occurrence of the damage, then Lessor may, no later than the sixtieth (60th) day following the damage, give Lessee a notice of election to terminate this Lease, or, if the cost of restoration of the Building will equal or exceed fifty (50%) percent of such replacement value, then Lessee may, no later than the sixtieth (60th) day following the damage, give Lessor a notice of election to terminate this Lease. In either said event of election, this Lease shall be deemed to terminate on the thirtieth (30th) day after the giving of said notice, and Lessee shall surrender possession of the Premises within a reasonable time thereafter; and the Term Basic Rent, and any Additional Rent, shall be apportioned as of the date of said surrender, and any Term Basic Rent or Additional Rent paid for any period beyond the latter of the thirtieth (30th) day after said notice or the date Lessee surrenders possession shall be repaid to Lessee this obligation to survive termination of this Lease. If the cost of restoration shall not entitle Lessor to terminate this Lease or if, despite the cost, Lessor does not elect to terminate this Lease, Lessor shall restore the Building and

 

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the Premises with reasonable promptness, subject to Force Majeure, as hereinafter defined, and except as stated above, Lessee shall have no right to terminate this Lease. Lessor need not restore fixtures and improvements owned by Lessee provided, however, that Lessee shall have the right to work alongside Lessor to restore Lessee’s fixtures and improvements so long as Lessee does not interfere with Lessor. There shall be no obligation on the part of Lessor to repair or rebuild the Demised Premises if the casualty occurs during the last fifteen (15) months of the Term of this Lease and the Premises cannot be restored within ninety (90) days from the date of the casualty in Lessor’s reasonable opinion and, in such case, either party may elect to terminate this Lease upon thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to the other party which notice must be given within thirty (30) days of the date of the casualty, and upon the expiration of said thirty (30) day period, this Lease shall thereafter terminate. However, Lessee may, within fifteen (15) days after receipt of Lessor’s notice to terminate this Lease, override such termination by exercising its option to renew pursuant to Section 54 hereof, thus creating a remainder of the Term in excess of twenty-four (24) months.

In any case in which use of the Premises is affected by any damage to the Building, there shall be either an abatement or an equitable reduction in Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent depending on the period for which and the extent to which the Premises are not reasonably usable for the purpose for which they are leased hereunder. The words “ restoration ” and “ restore ” as used in this Section 11 shall include repairs.

12. EMINENT DOMAIN . If Lessee’s use of the Premises is materially affected due to the taking by eminent domain of (a) the Premises or any part thereof or any estate therein; or (b) any other part of the Building; or if the parking spaces provided to Lessee at the Office Building Area art diminished by ten (10%) percent or more as a result of any taking, and Lessor is unable to provide Lessee with replacement parking within the Office Building Area or within reasonable proximity thereto, then, in any such event, this Lease shall terminate on the date when title vests pursuant to such taking. The Term Basic Rent, and any Additional Rent, shall be apportioned as of said termination date and any Term Basic Rent or Additional Rent paid for any period beyond said date shall be repaid to Lessee, this obligation to survive termination of this Lease. In the event of a partial taking which does not effect a termination of this Lease but does deprive Lessee of the use of a portion of the Demised Premises or Lessee’s parking spaces, there shall either be an abatement or an equitable reduction of the Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent depending on the period for which and the extent to which the Premises or parking spaces so taken are not reasonably usable for the purpose for which they are leased hereunder. Lessee shall not be entitled to any part of the award for such taking or any payment in lieu thereof, but Lessee may file a separate claim for any taking of fixtures and improvements owned by Lessee which have not become Lessor’s property, and for moving expenses, provided the same shall in no way affect or diminish Lessor’s award.

13. INSOLVENCY OF LESSEE . Either (a) the appointment of a receiver to take possession of all or substantially all of the assets of Lessee or (b) a general assignment by Lessee for the benefit of creditors or (c) any action taken or suffered by Lessee under any insolvency or bankruptcy act, shall constitute a default of this Lease by Lessee, and Lessor may terminate this Lease forthwith and upon notice of such termination Lessee’s right to possession of the Demised Premises shall cease, and Lessee shall then quit and surrender the Premises to Lessor but Lessee shall remain liable as hereinafter provided in Section 15 hereof. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the

 

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contrary, so long as Lessee has fully and faithfully complied and continues to comply with the terms and provisions of this Lease and continues to do so, the aforesaid shall not be deemed, in and of itself, a default hereunder.

14. LESSOR’S REMEDIES ON DEFAULT . If Lessee defaults in the payment of Term Basic Rent, or any Additional Rent, or defaults in the performance of any of the other covenants and conditions hereof, Lessor may give Lessee notice of such default, and if Lessee does not cure any Term Basic Rent or Additional Rent default within five (5) days of the giving of such notice or other default within thirty (30) days after giving of such notice [or if such other default is of such nature that it cannot be completely cured within such period, if Lessee does not commence such curing within such thirty (30) days and thereafter proceed with reasonable diligence and in good faith to cure such default], then an “Event of Default” shall be deemed to have occurred and Lessor may terminate this Lease on not less than ten (10) days’ notice to Lessee, and on the date specified in said notice, Lessee’s right to possession of the Demised Premises shall cease, and Lessee shall then quit and surrender the Premises to Lessor, but Lessee shall remain liable as hereinafter provided. If this Lease shall have been so terminated by Lessor pursuant to Sections 13 or 14 hereof, Lessor may at any time thereafter resume possession of the Premises by any lawful means and remove Lessee or other occupants and their effects. An Event of Default shall be deemed not to have occurred hereunder unless notice has been served and the applicable opportunity to cure has been given by Lessor.

15. DEFICIENCY . In any case where Lessor has recovered possession of the Premises by reason of Lessee’s default, Lessor may, at Lessor’s option, occupy the Premises or cause the Premises to be redecorated, altered, divided, consolidated with other adjoining premises, or otherwise changed or prepared for reletting, and may relet the Premises or any part thereof as agent of Lessee or otherwise, for a term or terms to expire prior to, at the same time as, or subsequent to, the original expiration date of this Lease, at Lessor’s option, and receive the Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent therefor. Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent so received shall be applied first to the payment of such actual out-of-pocket expenses as Lessor may have incurred in connection with the recovery of possession, redecorating, altering, dividing, consolidating with other adjoining premises, or otherwise changing or preparing for reletting, and the reletting, including actual brokerage and reasonable attorneys’ fees, and then to the payment of damages in amounts equal to the Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent hereunder and to the costs and expenses of performance of the other covenants of Lessee as herein provided. Lessee agrees, in any such case, whether or not Lessor has relet, to pay to Lessor damages equal to the Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent and other sums herein agreed to be paid by Lessee, as and when due, less the net proceeds of the reletting, if any, as ascertained from time to time, as of the due date, and the same shall be payable by Lessee on the several rent days above specified. Lessee shall not be entitled to any surplus accruing as a result of any such reletting, nor shall any surplus be applied to offset the damages referred to in the preceding sentence. In reletting the Premises as aforesaid, Lessor may grant rent concessions, and Lessee shall not be credited therewith. No such reletting shall constitute a surrender and acceptance or be deemed evidence thereof. If Lessor elects, pursuant hereto, actually to occupy and use the Premises or any part thereof during any part of the balance of the Term as originally fixed or since extended, there shall be allowed against Lessee’s obligation for Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent or damages as herein defined, during the period of Lessor’s occupancy, the reasonable value of such occupancy, not to exceed in any event the Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent herein reserved and such occupancy

 

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shall not be construed as a release of Lessee’s liability hereunder. Notwithstanding anything herein contained, Lessor agrees to use reasonable efforts to relet the Premises in order to mitigate its damages, but nothing herein shall limit the Lessor’s right, in its sole but reasonable discretion, to approve any tenant and to determine the terms and conditions of any lease, including but not limited to rent and length of term. Lessor shall not be obligated to display the Premises to prospective tenants if Lessor has other premises available in the Building or within the Additional Building. However, if prospective tenants do not find such other premises suitable, Lessor agrees that it will then display the Premises to the prospective tenants.

Alternatively, in any case where Lessor has recovered possession of the Premises by reason of Lessee’s default, Lessor may at Lessor’s option, and at any time thereafter, and without notice or other action by Lessor, and without prejudice to any other rights or remedies it might have hereunder or at law or equity, become entitled to recover from Lessee, as damages for such breach, in addition to such other sums herein agreed to be paid by Lessee, to the date of re-entry, expiration and/or dispossess, an amount equal to the difference between the Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent reserved in this Lease from the date of such default to the date of expiration of the Term demised, and the then fair and reasonable rental value of the Premises for the same period. Said damages shall become due and payable to Lessor immediately upon such breach of this Lease and without regard to whether this Lease be terminated or not, and if this Lease be terminated, without regard to the manner in which it is terminated. In the computation of such damages, the difference between any installments of rent (Basic and Additional) thereafter becoming due and the fair and reasonable rental value of the Premises for the period for which such installment was payable shall be discounted to the date of such default at the rate of not more than four (4%) percent per annum.

Lessee hereby waives all right of redemption to which Lessee or any person under Lessee might be entitled by any law now or hereafter in force. In addition, in the event of a default which results in the Lessor recovering possession of the Demised Premises, Lessor shall be under no duty to mitigate Lessee’s damages except as provided for in this Section 15.

Lessor’s remedies hereunder are in addition to any remedy allowed by law.

16. SUBORDINATION OF LEASE . This Lease is and shall be subject and subordinate to all present and future first mortgages or first deeds of trust affecting the Demised Premises, provided that Lessor obtains a non-disturbance agreement from any such first mortgagee or holder of any such first deed of trust in such form as may be mutually acceptable to Lessor, Lessee and such first mortgagee or such holder of any first deed of trust. The Lessee shall execute any customarily required instrument which may be deemed necessary or desirable by the Lessor in Lessor’s and Lessee’s reasonable opinion, subject to having a reasonable opportunity to negotiate the terms thereof with such lender’s legal counsel, to further effect or to evidence the subordination of this Lease to any such first mortgage or first deed of trust. The Lessor may assign this Lease to any such first mortgagee or first trust deed holder in connection with any such lien superior to this Lease, and the Lessee shall execute, at no expense to the Lessee, any customarily required instrument which may be deemed necessary by the Lessor in Lessor’s reasonable opinion or the holder of said lien, subject to having a reasonable opportunity to negotiate the terms thereof with such lender’s legal counsel, in connection with said assignment. Any expense incurred in the preparing, executing or recording of such assignment to any such holder shall be without expense or cost to the Lessee.

 

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17. SECURITY DEPOSIT .

(A) If at any time or times during the first five (5) years of the Term of this Lease, Lessee’s financial rating for long term indebtedness shall drop below BBB- as determined by Standard & Poors (“ S&P ”), and below Baa3 as determined by Moody’s Investors Services, Inc. (“ Moody’s ”), Lessee shall be required to post with Lessor, within thirty (30) days after the later to occur of such reduction in financial ratings of long term indebtedness, a security deposit as provided in Subsection 17(B) herein, which Lessee shall be required to maintain until at least one of said ratings is elevated to or above BBB- in the case of S&P or Baa3 in the case of Moody’s; provided, however, that Lessee’s obligation under this Section 17(A) shall be deemed to be fully discharged if or at any time after the first five years of the Term Lessee’s financial rating is elevated to or above BBB- in the case of S&P or Baa3 in the case of Moody’s.

(B) The security deposit referred to in Subsection 17(A) above shall be in an amount equal to Seven Million Two Hundred Thousand and 00/100 ($7,200,000.00) Dollars and shall be in cash or in the form of an unconditional, irrevocable, transferable, evergreen, commercial letter of credit issued by a commercial bank which is a member of the Federal Reserve Bank and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and otherwise reasonably acceptable to Lessor. Any such evergreen letter of credit shall have an initial expiration of no less than one (1) year from the date of issuance and provide for the automatic extension of its expiration for additional periods of one (1) year on an on-going basis throughout the entire Lease Term and any extension or renewal thereof, subject to the limitations set forth in Subsection 17(A) above unless Lessor is given written notice to the contrary by the issuing bank at least sixty (60) days prior to any expiration date. Lessor will endeavor to give Lessee notice of any notification received by Lessor from such issuing bank that such letter of credit will not be extended. Any such letter of credit will permit multiple draws from time to time. Lessor agrees to draw only such sum(s) equivalent to such amount(s) as may be required to cure Event(s) of Default, and Lessor agrees to apply such sum(s) to cure such Event(s) of Default. In the event Lessor receives notice that any such letter of credit will not be extended automatically as required herein, Lessor shall be authorized to draw upon the letter of credit and retain the cash proceeds or so much as shall remain after curing any Event(s) of Default for the balance of the Lease Term or any extension or renewal thereof, as provided in this Subsection 17(B), in an interest-bearing escrow account, with the interest, less Lessor’s reasonable administrative fee not to exceed two (2%) percent per annum to accrue for the benefit of Lessee. In the event Lessor has used any of such cash proceeds to cure any of Lessee’s Event(s) of Defaults or to meet any of Lessee’s obligations, Lessee covenants, upon demand, to replace the amount so utilized. In the event of a bona fide sale, subject to this Lease, Lessor shall transfer the security to the vendee and shall have the vendee confirm the transfer in writing to Lessee and Lessor shall be considered released by Lessee from all liability for the return of such security; and Lessee agrees to look solely to the new landlord for the return of the said security, and it is agreed that this shall apply to every transfer or assignment made of the security to a new landlord. Any fee charged by the issuing bank in connection with the transfer of the letter of credit described in this Subsection 17(B) in connection with the sale of the Demised Premises shall be paid by Lessee. The security deposited hereunder shall not be mortgaged, assigned or encumbered by Lessee without the written consent of Lessor and shall be returned to Lessee, subject to all of the terms of Section 17, at

 

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the expiration of the Term as the same may be extended or renewed or such earlier date as Lessor’s financial ratings for long-term indebtedness are restored as provided in Subsection 17(A). Lessor will surrender any such letter of credit for cancellation at such time as the same shall no longer be required pursuant to the terms of this Lease. Lessor shall pay any fee for failure to surrender such letter of credit charged by any bank issuing such letter of credit if such letter of credit is not surrendered for cancellation to such bank within ten (10) days following notice served upon Lessor by Lessee requiring such letter of credit to be surrendered to such issuing bank for cancellation.

(C) In the event of the insolvency of Lessee, or in the event of the entry of a judgment in bankruptcy in any court against Lessee which is not discharged within thirty (30) days after entry, or in the event a petition is filed by or against Lessee under any chapter of the bankruptcy laws of the State of New Jersey or the United States of America, then in such event, Lessor may require the Lessee to deposit security in the amount specified in Subsection 9(K) to adequately assure Lessee’s performance of all of its obligations under this Lease including all payments subsequently accruing. Failure of Lessee to deposit the security required by this Section 17 within thirty (30) days after Lessor’s written demand shall constitute an Event of Default.

18. RIGHT TO CURE BREACH . If Lessee breaches any covenant or condition of this Lease, Lessor may, on reasonable notice to Lessee which shall not be less than the applicable notice and cure period set forth in Section 14 (except that no notice need be given in case of emergency), cure such breach at the expense of Lessee and the reasonable amount of all expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred by Lessor in so doing (whether paid by Lessor or not) shall be deemed Additional Rent payable within thirty (30) days after Lessor’s invoice therefor.

If Lessor breaches any covenant or condition of this Lease Lessee may, upon thirty (30) days’ notice to Lessor (except that no notice need be given in the case of an emergency), cure such breach at the expense of Lessor and the reasonable amount of all such expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred by Lessee in so doing shall be paid to Lessee by Lessor but Lessee shall have no right of offset against Lessor if Lessor shall fail to repay Lessee. If Lessor commences curing within said thirty (30) day period and diligently pursues said cure, Lessor shall not be in breach. As used herein, “ emergency ” shall mean a situation posing imminent danger to the Building or the Building’s occupants or providing for a fine, penalty or threat thereof.

19. LIENS . Lessee shall not do any act, or make any contract, which may create or be the foundation for any lien or other encumbrance upon any interest of Lessor or any ground or underlying lessor in any portion of the Premises. If, because of any act or omission (or alleged act or omission) of Lessee, any construction lien or other lien as defined in N.J.S.A. 2A:44A-2 (collectively “ Lien ”), charge, or order for the payment of money or other encumbrance shall be filed against Lessor and/or any ground or underlying lessor and/or any portion of the Premises or the Building (whether or not such Lien, charge, order, or encumbrance is valid or enforceable as such), Lessee shall, at its own cost and expense, cause same to be discharged of record or bonded within fifteen (15) days after the filing thereof; and Lessee shall indemnify and save harmless Lessor and all ground and underlying lessor(s) against and from all costs, liabilities, suits, penalties, claims, and demands, including reasonable counsel fees, resulting from a default of Lessee’s obligations pursuant to this Section 19. If Lessee fails to comply with the foregoing provisions, Lessor shall have the option of discharging or bonding

 

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any such Lien, charge, order, or encumbrance, and Lessee agrees to reimburse Lessor for all costs, expenses and other sums of money in connection therewith (as additional rental) with interest at the maximum rate permitted by law promptly upon demand. All materialmen, contractors, artisans, mechanics, laborers, and any other persons now or hereafter contracting with Lessee or any contractor or subcontractor of Lessee for the furnishing of any labor services, materials, supplies, or equipment with respect to any portion of the Premises or the Building, at any time from the date hereof until the end of the Lease Term, are hereby charged with notice that they look exclusively to Lessee to obtain payment for same.

20. RIGHT TO INSPECT AND REPAIR . Lessor may enter the Premises on days other than Sundays or Building Holidays, but shall not be obligated to do so (except as required by some specific provision of this Lease) at any reasonable time on reasonable notice to Lessee (except in an emergency when no notice need be given and entry may be during non-Building Hours and/or on Sundays or Building Holidays) for the purpose of inspection or the making of such repairs, replacement or additions, in, to, on and about the Premises or the Building, as Lessor deems necessary or desirable in order to maintain the Building as a first class office building. Lessor shall make any new installations above the ceiling, below the floor or behind walls of the Building. To the extent Lessor damages the Premises in connection with making any repairs, Lessor shall be liable for such damage. Lessor may enter the Premises on non-business days, provided that Lessee shall have the right (except in an emergency) to require that Lessor be escorted by a representative of Lessee. Such actions by Lessor shall have no effect on this Lease or Lessee’s obligations hereunder, and Lessee shall have no claims or cause of action against Lessor for any abatement of rent or any compensation by reason thereof. Lessor hereby agrees to use reasonable efforts not to interrupt Lessee’s business operations or unreasonably interfere with Building access. No action taken by Lessor pursuant to this Section 20 shall materially alter the character of the Building, or reduce the size of the Building lobby or public access or reduce the size of the Premises.

21. UTILITIES AND ELECTRICAL SERVICE . Based solely on the Eckland Report and without having made any other or independent investigation, Lessor believes that the electrical capacity of the electrical service to the Building is three phase, 13.8 KV. Subject to Section 24 hereof, Lessee shall make all arrangements directly with utility service providers for electrical, gas, water and other utility services. For so long as the Building is leased to and/or occupied solely by Lessee’s Affiliates, subtenants or assignees, it shall pay directly to the appropriate utility company one hundred (100%) percent of the cost of electrical, gas, water and other utility services furnished to the Building. At such time, if ever, and for so long as the Building shall be leased to and/or occupied by one or more tenants in addition to Lessee by virtue of Lessor recapturing portions of the Demised Premises, there will be an equitable allocation of the costs of all electrical, gas, water and other utility services furnished to the Building and Office Building Area among the Demised Premises, the space occupied by another tenant or tenants and common areas of the Building, and Lessee shall pay to Lessor as Additional Rent not more frequently than once a month the share of total Building electricity, gas, water and other utility costs allocated to the Demised Premises plus an equitable share of total Building electricity costs allocated to common areas.

22. OTHER SERVICES TO BE ARRANGED FOR BY LESSOR . Subject to Section 24 hereof, Lessor agrees to make contractual arrangements (all of which shall be cancelable by Lessor

 

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on thirty (30) days notice) for the following additional services, with vendors acceptable to Lessee an in accordance with standards and an operating budget approved by Lessee, on all days except Sundays and the building holidays (“ Building Holidays ”) set forth on Exhibit E attached hereto and made a part hereof:

(A) Cleaning services, as set forth on Exhibit F attached hereto and made a part hereof, subject to the conditions therein stated. Notwithstanding any reduction of Lessee’s Pro Rata Share below one hundred (100%) percent, Lessee shall pay one hundred (100%) percent of the costs of all cleaning services required by Lessee within the Demised Premises and/or Lessee’s Pro Rata Share (as hereinafter defined) of Building common areas in addition to the cleaning services set forth on Exhibit F hereto.

(B) Cold and hot water for drinking and lavatory purposes.

(C) Elevator service (using all passenger elevators during Building Hours and at least one elevator at all other hours of the day, seven (7) days per week, including Sundays and Building Holidays).

(D) Restroom supplies and exterior window cleaning when reasonably required.

(E) Heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (“ HVAC ”), as appropriate for each season, in accordance with specifications set forth on Exhibit G annexed hereto. Lessor and Lessee acknowledge that, except on Building Holidays as set forth on Exhibit E hereto, Lessee intends to require the operation of the HVAC system throughout the Term of the Lease during the hours of 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, and 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Saturday (“ Building Hours ”). Lessor and Lessee further acknowledge that the components of the HVAC system include three separate chillers and that the operation of the three (3) chillers during Business Hours as aforesaid is anticipated to be 1,950 hours per chiller, per annum. Lessee agrees to pay overtime charges to Lessor with respect to any metered usage or operation of the HVAC system in excess of 1,950 hours per chiller, per annum, at the rate of Thirty-Seven and 50/100 ($37.50) Dollars per chiller, per hour (“ Overtime HVAC Charges ”), from and after Lessee’s occupancy of Phase II of the Demised Premises. Overtime Charges shall be deemed Additional Rent, payable within thirty (30) days of Lessor’s invoice(s) with respect to same, which shall be rendered annually. Lessee acknowledges that Overtime Charges are intended to compensate Lessor for excessive use of the HVAC system beyond the scope of the Building Hours, and are a separate payment to the Lessor, in addition to any charge for electrical service otherwise payable by Lessee on account of electrical service to Lessor and/or directly to the utility company providing electrical energy to the Building. Promptly following complete execution of this Lease, Lessor shall provide Lessee with copies of all maintenance and service records in Lessor’s possession with respect to the HVAC system, UPS system and generator at the Building. Lessor shall also endeavor to provide Lessee with copies of all such records in the possession of the present Building tenant.

23. INTERRUPTION OF SERVICES . Interruption or curtailment of any service maintained in the Building or at the Office Building Area, (unless caused by Force Majeure, as hereinafter defined), shall not entitle Lessee to any claim against Lessor or to any abatement in Term

 

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Basic Rent or Additional Rent, and shall not constitute a constructive or partial eviction, In the event of any interruption or curtailment of service, Lessee may direct Lessor to promptly terminate the contract of any service provider. If the Premises are rendered untenantable in whole or in part, for a period often (10) consecutive business days, by the making of repairs, replacements or additions, other than those made with Lessee’s consent or caused by misuse or neglect by Lessee, or Lessee’s agents, contractors, servants, visitors or licensees, there shall be a proportionate abatement of Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent from and after said tenth (10th) consecutive business day and continuing for the period of such untenantability. In no event shall Lessee be entitled to claim a constructive eviction from the Premises unless Lessee shall first have notified Lessor in writing of the condition or conditions giving rise thereto, and, if the complaints be justified, unless Lessor shall have failed, within a reasonable time after receipt of such notice, to remedy, or commence and proceed with due diligence to remedy, such condition or conditions, all subject to Force Majeure, as hereinafter defined. The remedies provided for in this Section 23 shall be Lessee’s sole remedies for any interruption of service or use as described above.

24. ADDITIONAL RENT . It is expressly agreed that Lessee will pay, in addition to the Term Basic Rent provided in Section 3 above, additional rents to cover “ Lessee’s Pro Rata Share ” (which will be equal to one hundred (100%) percent unless and until and for so long as the Building shall be leased to and/or occupied by one or more tenants by virtue of Lessor recapturing space in the Demised Premises in addition to Lessee; and for so long as the Building shall be leased to and/or occupied by one or more tenants in addition to Lessee, shall be equal to the fraction determined by dividing the gross rentable square footage of the Building occupied by Lessee at such time by the gross rentable square footage of the entire Building occupied by Lessee and/or another tenant or tenants) of the increased costs to Lessor, for each of the categories of Building Operating Expenses (as hereinafter defined) enumerated herein, over the Base Building Operating Costs (as hereinafter defined) for each of said categories and 100% of any service required by Lessee in excess of that provided generally all of the tenants in the Building.

(A) Operating Cost Escalation . If during the Lease Term the Building Operating Costs incurred for the Building in which the Demised Premises are located and Office Building Area for any Lease Year or proportionate part thereof if the Lease Term expires or is terminated prior to the end of a full Lease Year (herein a “ Comparison Period ”) shall be greater than the Base Building Operating Costs (reduced proportionately if the Comparison Period is less than a full Lease Year), then Lessee shall pay to Lessor, as Additional Rent, Lessee’s Pro Rata Share of all such excess Building Operating Costs. Each year during the Term and any renewal term, Lessor and Lessee shall meet and establish a budget for Building Operating Costs acceptable to Lessee with respect to the level of services to be furnished to Lessee by service providers designated by and/or acceptable to Lessee, which budget shall be modified from time to time as Lessee may require. As used herein, “ Building Operating Costs ” shall include, by way of illustration and not of limitation: personal property taxes; labor (prorated based on time spent in or at the Building or Office Building Area by the laborer), including all wages and salaries, social security taxes, and other taxes which may be levied against Lessor upon such wages and salaries; supplies; costs of ordinary and necessary repairs to and maintenance of the Demised Premises, Building Systems and the roof membrane; annual installments (as hereinafter determined) on account of (a) costs of any repairs or replacements required to be made by any Future Laws which are required due to the use of the Building as general

 

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offices because the conditions requiring compliance are not grandfathered, to the extent compliance required, amortized as hereinafter provided; and (b) capital expenditures for replacements to Building Systems and the roof membrane and/or other expenditures which are required to be capitalized for federal income tax purposes in each case equal to the aggregate costs of such repairs or replacements as the case may be, amortized on a straight line basis in equal installments over the useful life of such repairs as determined in accordance with standard accounting practices for comparable office buildings in Morris County, New Jersey together with interest at two (2%) percent per annum over the annual percentage rate at which Lessor is able to borrows funds for such purposes payable from the date of installation through the date of repayment of said installment; amounts payable under maintenance and service contracts (but only to the extent Lessee is not required by Section 5.01 (A) or other provision herein to maintain or repair the item); costs of painting, wall and window washing, tools and equipment (which are not required to be capitalized for federal income tax purposes), premiums for Lessor’s insurance required under this Lease; the amount of any deductible that Lessor choose to maintain, subject to Lessee’s prior approval, with respect to losses be covered by insurance; costs of trash removal; and all other items properly constituting direct operating costs according to standard accounting practices for comparable office buildings in Morris County, New Jersey for the benefit of the Building; but “ Building Operating Costs ” shall not include: repairs to or maintenance or replacement of Building Structure; utility charges paid directly or separately by Lessee or other tenants; overtime charges to the extent paid by Lessee pursuant to Section 22; depreciation of Building or equipment; interest; income or excess profits taxes; costs of maintaining Lessor’s corporate or partnership existence; franchise taxes; any items for which insurance is received, but only to the extent of said recovery; any items for which warranties or guaranties exist but only to the extent of the credit as a result of said warranties or guaranties; financing or refinancing costs; interest on debt or amortization payments on any mortgage, rental or other charges under any ground or underlying lease; costs of advertising, brokerage commissions, promotional materials or space planning for other tenants of the Building; cost of renewing any leases with other tenants of the Building, any bad debt loss, rent loss or reserves for bad debts or rent loss; legal and auditing fees, other than reasonable legal and auditing fees (including fees for selling, refinancing, or leasing of the Demised Premises and leasing and development of the Additional Building) necessarily incurred in connection with the normal maintenance and operation of the Building; fines, penalties and interest caused by the acts or omissions of Lessor, its agents, contractors or employees; the cost of any works of art or additions to the Building subsequent to the Commencement Date; amortization of the Building in the event the Building is ground leased; fees and expenses paid to Affiliated Companies of Lessor or any entity controlled by a person related to Lessor in excess of commercially reasonable and customary amounts; dues to professional and lobbying organizations; expenses (e.g., costs of any judgment, settlement or arbitration award) relating to or resulting from the negligence of Lessor, its agents, contractors or employees; the cost of defending any lawsuits with any mortgagee (except as, and to the extent, the actions of Lessee may be an issue); any compensation paid to clerks, attendants or other persons in commercial concessions operated by Lessor in the Building; costs of compliance with any law affecting the Premises to the extent the Premises are not in compliance as of the Commencement Date pursuant to said law as interpreted as of the Commencement Date; costs arising out of environmental conditions in existence irrespective of whether or not in compliance with any Environmental Laws at the commencement of Lessee’s occupancy with respect to (i) the ground within the Office Building Area; or (ii) the Building Structure; or (iii) the existence of lead paint, asbestos floor tiles and external transformers containing PCBs; costs incurred due to the existence of

 

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underground piping connected to a formerly existing 10,000 gallon gasoline tank; costs arising out of environmental conditions attributable to the acts of Lessor, its agents, contractors or employees; costs attributable to the Additional Building if said Additional Building is not on a parcel which is subdivided from the Premises; costs of compliance with laws applicable to the design of the existing system of detention and drainage and the discharge of storm water from the Office Building Area to any wetlands, stream or brook; and any costs associated with the development of the Additional Building, including costs which relate to the Demised Premises, but would not have been incurred but for the development of the Additional Building; executive salaries above the grade of Property Manager; costs attributable to Lessor’s home office overhead; landscaping and other incidental costs incurred in connection with a partial taking of the Demised Premises by eminent domain to the extent condemnation proceeds for the same are received by Lessor; and any other items for which Lessor receives payment. As used in this Subsection 24(A), “ Base Building Operating Costs ” shall mean Seven Hundred Four Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety and 00/100 ($704,990.00) Dollars.

(B) Payment . Lessor shall bill excess Building Operating Costs to Lease no more frequently than monthly throughout the Term and Lessee shall pay Lessee’s Pro Rata Share (which will be equal to one hundred (100%) percent unless and until the Building shall be leased to and/or occupied by one or more tenants by virtue of Lessor’s recapture of any space within the Demised Premises in addition” to Lessee) thereof within thirty (30) days of receipt of each such bill, which shall be in line item format.

(C) Lease Year . As used in this Lease, Lease Year shall mean a calendar year. Any portion of the Term which is less than a Lease Year as hereinbefore defined, that is, from the Commencement Date through the following December 31, and from the last January 1 falling within the Term to the end of the Term, shall be deemed a “ Partial Lease Year .” Any reference in this Lease to a Lease Year shall, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, be deemed to be a reference to a Partial Lease Year if the period in question involves a Partial Lease Year.

(D) Books and Records . For the protection of Lessee, Lessor shall maintain books of account which shall be open to Lessee and its representatives at all reasonable times so that Lessee can determine that such Building Operating Costs have, in fact, been paid or incurred. Lessee’s representatives shall mean only (i) Lessee’s employees or (ii) a certified public accounting firm. Any disagreement with respect to any one or more of said charges, if not satisfactorily settled between Lessor and Lessee shall be referred by either party to an independent certified public accountant to be mutually agreed upon, and if such an accountant cannot be agreed upon, the American Arbitration Association may be asked by either party to select an arbitrator, whose decision on the dispute will be final and binding upon both parties, who shall jointly share any cost of such arbitration. Pending resolution of said dispute, Lessee shall pay to Lessor the sum so billed by Lessor subject to its ultimate resolution as aforesaid. In the event such arbitration determines that such Building Operating Costs have been overstated by more than five (5%) percent, Lessor shall (a) pay the reasonable fees of the arbitration; and (b) reimburse Lessee for the reasonable out of pocket costs of its review of such Building Operating Costs; and (iii) shall return any excess payment to Lessee with interest at the rate of five (5%) percent, said obligation to survive termination of this Lease.

(E) Right of Review . Once Lessor shall have finally determined said Building

 

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Operating Costs at the expiration of a Lease Year, then as to the item so established, Lessee shall one be entitled to dispute said charge as finally established for a period of twenty-four (24) months after such charge is finally established, and Lessee specifically waives any right to dispute any such charge at the expiration of said twenty-four (24) month period.

25. REAL ESTATE TAXES .

(A) As long as Lessee’s Pro Rata Share shall be equal to one hundred (100%) percent, Lessee shall pay directly to the appropriate governmental authority, before any interest or penalties accrue thereon, one hundred (100%) percent of all Real Estate Taxes, as hereinafter defined, and all water and sewer rates and charges and all other governmental charges imposed during the Term on the Demised Premises; and upon request by Lessor, Lessee shall furnish to Lessor receipted bills or other proof of such payments. There shall be apportioned any tax or charge relating to the fiscal years in which the Term of this Lease commences and terminates, this obligation to survive expiration of the Lease Term.

(B) Lessee shall not be required to pay any estate, inheritance, devolution, succession, transfer, legacy or gift tax charged against Lessor or the estate or interest of Lessor in the Demised Premises or upon the right of any person to succeed to the same or any part thereof by inheritance, succession, transfer or gift, nor any capital stock tax or corporate franchise tax incurred by Lessor, nor any income tax upon or against the income of Lessor (including any rental income derived by Lessor from the Demised Premises but this exclusion shall not be applicable to a gross receipts or rental tax which shall be considered a Real Estate Tax).

(C) Lessee shall pay all assessments that may be imposed upon the Demised Premises by reason of any specific public improvement (including but not limited to assessments for street openings, grading, paving and sewer installations and improvements) except that if by law any such special assessment is payable, or may, at the option of the taxpayer, be paid, in installments, Lessee may, whether or not interest accrues on the unpaid balance thereof, pay the same and any accrued interest on any unpaid balance thereof in installments as each installment becomes due and payable, but in any event before any penalty or cost may be added thereto for nonpayment of any installment or interest. Any such benefit, assessment or installment thereof relating to a fiscal period in which the Term of this Lease begins or ends shall be apportioned. Lessor agrees to pay any assessment over the longest period provided by law and Lessee shall only be required to pay that portion falling within the Lease Term.

(D) Lessee, in its name or Lessor’s name, shall have the right to contest, or review, by appropriate proceedings, in such manner as it may deem suitable, at its own expense, and without expense to Lessor, any tax, assessment, water and sewer rents or charges, or other charges payable by Lessee pursuant to this Lease, and upon the request of Lessee, and upon receipt by Lessor of the taxes payable by Lessee under this Section, Lessor will pay, under protest, any tax, assessment, water or sewer rent or charge, or any other charge payable by Lessee pursuant to this Lease, which shall be contested or reviewed by Lessee. Any refund resulting from such contest or review shall be assigned to and belong to Lessee and shall be paid to Lessee promptly upon its receipt by Lessor. If the refund relates to a tax year that is apportioned between Lessor and Lessee, the refund shall be apportioned between Lessor and Lessee, this obligation to survive expiration of the Lease Term.

 

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(E) [Intentionally deleted.]

(F) As used in this Lease, Real Estate Taxes shall mean the property taxes and assessments imposed upon the Office Building Area including the Building, or upon the Rent (Basic and Additional), as such payable by Lessor, including but not limited to, real estate, city, county, village, school and transit taxes, or taxes, assessments or charges levied, imposed or assessed against the Office Building Area including the Building, by any other taxing authority, whether general or specific, ordinary or extraordinary, foreseen or unforeseen. If due to a future change in the method of taxation, any franchise, income or profit tax or other tax shall be levied against Lessor in substitution for, or in lieu of, or in addition to, any tax which would otherwise constitute a Real Estate Tax, such franchise, income or profit tax or other tax shall be deemed to be a Real Estate Tax for the purposes hereof.

(G) In the event of the construction of the Additional Building (as defined in Section 56 hereof) pursuant to an approved subdivision, the description of the Office Building Area as set forth in Exhibit A shall be revised to reflect the reduction in the size of the lot comprising the Office Building Area resulting from the subdivision, as of the date the subdivision is perfected by the filing of an approved final subdivision map or by the recording of approved subdivision deeds, whereupon Lessee shall only be required to pay the Real Estate Taxes for the revised Office Building Area. In the event the Additional Building is constructed without a subdivision of the lot comprising the Office Building Area, Lessee shall only be required to pay the Real Estate Taxes imposed against the condominium unit at which the Building is located, as of the date of recording of the Master Deed. In no event shall (i) Lessee’s obligations to pay the Real Estate Taxes imposed against the Building be modified by the construction of the Additional Building; (ii) Lessee be responsible for Real Estate Taxes with respect to the improvements comprising the Additional Building or the land which pertains to the Additional Building lot or condominium unit; and (iii) Lessee be responsible for water rates, sewer charges or other governmental charges assessed or imposed against the Additional Building. Lessor agrees that it shall not commence any work with respect to the development of the Additional Building prior to the perfection of the subdivision or recording of the Master Deed as aforesaid.

(H) At such time, if ever, and for so long as the Demised Premises are leased to and occupied by one or more tenants in addition to Lessee and Lessee’s Pro Rata Share is thereby diminished to an amount less than one hundred (100%) percent, Lessee shall pay to Lessor as Additional Rent, before the date that any interest or penalties shall accrue thereon ( provided Lessee receives from Lessor an invoice showing the method of computation of the amount of the Additional Rent and a bill to Lessor or other supporting documentation for the required payment), Lessee’s Pro Rata Share of all Real Estate Taxes, water and sewer rates and other governmental charges imposed during the Term on the Demised Premises with 20 days of receipt of Lessor’s invoice and supporting documentation but in no event earlier than 20 days before the same is due. If any refund relates to a charge for the entire Building or Office Building Area, and the Building is then occupied by tenants other than Lessee by virtue of Lessor’s recapture of space within the Demised Premises, then Lessee will be entitled first to recover its reasonable cost of such contest and thereafter its pro rata share of the refund.

 

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26. LESSEE’S ESTOPPEL .

(A) Either party shall, from time to time, within twenty (20) days of the other party’s written request, execute, acknowledge and deliver to the requesting party a written statement certifying that the Lease is unmodified and in full force and effect, or that the Lease is in full force and effect as modified and listing the instruments of modification; the dates to which the Monthly Basic Rent and Additional Rent and charges have been paid; to the best of the furnishing party’s knowledge, whether or not the requesting party is in default hereunder, and, if so, specifying the nature of the default; and any other information which the requesting party shall reasonably request.

(B) Either party’s failure to deliver such statement to the requesting party within such time shall be conclusive upon the requesting party that: (i) this Lease is in full force and effect and not modified except as the requesting party may represent; (ii) not more than one (1) monthly installment of Term Basic Rent has been paid in advance; (iii) there are no such defaults; and (iv) notices to the furnishing party shall be sent to furnishing party’s mailing address as set forth in this Lease. Notwithstanding the presumptions of this Section, the requesting party shall not be relieved of its obligation to deliver said statement.

It is intended that any such statement delivered pursuant to this Section 26 may be relied on by a prospective purchaser of Lessor’s interest or mortgagee of Lessor’s interest or assignee of any mortgage of Lessor’s interest, and in the case of Lessee, by any permitted assignee or subtenant or permitted transferee or party extending lines of credit to Lessee.

27. HOLDOVER TENANCY . Subject to the terms of Section 54 hereof, if Lessee holds possession of the Premises after the Term of this Lease, with Lessor’s consent, Lessee shall become a tenant from month to month under the provisions herein provided, but at a monthly basic rental equal to two hundred (200%) percent of that which was in effect during the last month of the Term as the same may have been renewed for any subsequent months of holdover and without the requirement for demand or notice by Lessor to Lessee demanding delivery of possession of said Premises (but Additional Rent shall continue as provided in this Lease), which sum shall be payable in advance on the first day of each month, and such tenancy shall continue until terminated by Lessor, or until Lessee shall have given to Lessor, at least sixty (60) days prior to the intended date of termination, a written notice of intent to terminate such tenancy, which termination date must be as of the end of a calendar month. The time limitations described in this Section 27 shall not be subject to extension for Force Majeure.

28. RIGHT TO SHOW PREMISES . Lessor may show the Premises to prospective purchasers and mortgagees; and, during the eighteen (18) months prior to termination of this Lease, to prospective tenants, during Building Hours on reasonable notice to Lessee. In showing the Premises, Lessor hereby agrees to endeavor to minimize any interruption to Lessee’s business operations and to comply with Lessee’s reasonable instructions and security requirements.

 

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29. WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY . It is mutually agreed by and between Lessor and Lessee that the respective parties hereto shall and they hereby do waive trial by jury in any action or proceeding brought by either of the parties hereto against the other in any matters whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with this Lease, the relationship of Lessor and Lessee, Lessee’s use or occupancy of the Demised Premises, and/or any claim of injury or damage, and any emergency statutory or any other statutory remedy. Should Lessor seek recourse to equity to enforce any of its rights under this Lease, Lessee agrees to waive any defense which it might otherwise have that Lessor has any adequate remedy at law. Lessee further agrees that it shall not interpose any counterclaim or setoff in a summary proceeding or in any action based, in whole or in part, on nonpayment of Basic Rent or Additional Rent unless by failure to do so, Lessee would be precluded from raising such claim under the Entire Controversy Doctrine.

30. LATE CHARGE . Anything in this Lease to the contrary notwithstanding, at Lessor’s option, Lessee shall pay a “ Late Charge ” of five (5%) percent of any installment of Monthly Basic Rent or Additional Rent paid more than five (5) days after the due date thereof, to cover the extra expense involved in handling delinquent payments. Lessee shall not be charged a Late Charge the first two (2) times Lessee is late during each Lease Year of the Term until Lessee, as to each such time each Lease Year, is given five (5) days’ notice and an opportunity to cure said nonpayment within said notice period and fails to cure said nonpayment within said time.

31. NO OTHER REPRESENTATIONS . No representations or promises shall be binding on the parties hereto except those representations and promises contained herein or in some future writing signed by the party making such representation(s) or promise(s).

32. QUIET ENJOYMENT . Lessor covenants that if, and so long as, Lessee pays the Term Basic Rent, and any Additional Rent as herein provided, and performs the covenants hereof subsequent to any applicable notice and cure periods, Lessor shall do nothing to affect Lessee’s right to peaceably and quietly have, hold and enjoy the Premises for the Term herein mentioned, subject to the provisions of this Lease and to any mortgage or deed of trust to which this Lease may be subordinate.

33. INSURANCE .

(A) During the Term, Lessor shall maintain the following insurance, insuring Lessor and ground lessor, if any, and any mortgagee(s), as their respective interests may appear, and naming the Lessee as an additional insured, the cost of which shall be reimbursed by Lessee as a Building Operating Cost pursuant to Subsection 24(A) above:

 

  (i)

Insurance against damage to the Building by all risks of direct physical loss (at Lessor’s option to include earthquake, flood and such other risks as Lessor deems appropriate) with the policy to contain either the agreed amount endorsement or a replacement cost endorsement, in amounts sufficient to prevent Lessor from becoming a co-insurer. The policy may include, at Lessor’s option, a contingent liability endorsement and/or demolition and increased cost of construction endorsement in order for the Building to be constructed in accordance with all requirements and regulations which may be

 

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applicable at the time of loss or damage, of all governmental agencies having jurisdiction over the Building and construction of such Building.

 

  (ii) Boiler and machinery insurance coverage, if appropriate, for all eligible objects, including pressure vessels and air conditioning equipment, with the electrical apparatus clause, with such limits as may be reasonably necessary to properly insure the values at risk in the Building.

 

  (iii) Rent insurance, with all risk coverage, against the loss of Basic Rent and estimated Additional Rent for no less than one (1) year as provided herein.

 

  (iv) Commercial general liability insurance against claims for bodily injury and property damage occurring in or about the Demised Premises and insurance against such other hazards as, from time to time, are then commonly insured against for premises similarly situated in amounts normally carried with respect thereto, but in no event less than the combined single limit amount of Five Million and 00/100 ($5,000,000.00) Dollars.

All insurance maintained pursuant to this Section 33(A) may be effected by blanket insurance policies.

(B) During the Term of the Lease, Lessee, at its cost, shall provide and keep in force:

 

  (i) A commercial general liability policy in standard form (containing the so-called “occurrence clause”) against claims for personal injury and property damage occurring on, in or about the Demised Premises in the combined single limit amount of Five Million and 00/100 ($5,000,000.00) Dollars per occurrence, and include an endorsement naming Lessor (and at Lessor’s election, its managing agent and/or mortgagee[s]) as an additional insured with respect to liability for ownership, operation, maintenance, use and control.

 

  (ii) “All Risk” property insurance against fire, theft, vandalism, malicious mischief, sprinkler leakage and such additional perils as are now, or hereafter may be, included in a standard extended coverage endorsement from time to time in general use in the State of New Jersey upon property of every description and kind owned by Lessee and/or under Lessee’s care, custody or control located in the Building or within the real property of which the Demised Premises are a part or for which Lessee is legally liable or installed by or on behalf of Lessee, including by way of example and not by way of limitation, furniture, fixtures, fittings, equipment, installations and any other personal property in an amount equal to the full replacement cost thereof.

 

  (iii)

Business interruption insurance in such amounts as will reimburse Lessee for direct or indirect loss of earnings attributable to all perils commonly insured

 

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against by prudent tenants or assumed by Lessee pursuant to this Lease or attributable to prevention or denial of access to the Demised Premises, Building or Office Building Area as a result of such perils.

 

  (iv) Workers’ Compensation insurance in form and amount as required by law.

 

  (v) Lessee shall also furnish, or reimburse Lessor for insurance for such other hazards and in such amounts as Lessor may reasonably require and as at the time are commonly insured against with respect to buildings similar in character, general location and use and occupancy to the Demised Premises in relative amounts normally carried with respect thereto. If, by reason of changed economic conditions, the insurance amounts referred to in this Section 31 (B) become inadequate, Lessee agrees to increase the amounts of such insurance promptly upon Lessor’s reasonable request.

The policies of insurance required pursuant to this Section 33 shall be from a company rated in the A.M. Best Key Rating Guide with a policyholder’s service rating of A and a financial rating of IX. The company shall be licensed by the State of New Jersey and ACORD 27 certificate evidencing the existence of such policy shall be delivered to Lessor, not less than fifteen (15) days prior to the commencement of the Term. The company shall agree to provide a notice of cancellation or non-renewal to the Lessor and any mortgagee at least fifteen (15) days prior to said event becoming effective. At least fifteen (15) days prior to the expiration or termination date of any policy, Lessee shall deliver a renewal or replacement policy, or certificate(s) evidencing the existence thereof, to Lessor together with proof of the payment of the premium therefor. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, Lessee may provide the aforesaid insurance with a deductible not to exceed Five Million and 00/100 ($5,000,000.00) Dollars and, as to said deductible, Lessee shall be deemed a self-insurer, provided said self-insurance would not and does not in fact result in the imposition of liability on Lessor or any other Building tenant for any reason to include their negligence and provided further that Lessee indemnifies and holds Lessor harmless with respect to any claims against Lessor and/or any Building tenant which as a result of said self-insurance or deductible are recovered or asserted against Lessor to the extent the same would not have been recoverable against Lessor if the policies required by this Section 33 hereof were obtained without a deductible.

(C) Lessee represents said representation being specifically designed to induce Lessor to execute this Lease, that Lessee’s personal property, fixtures, goods and inventory and any other items which Lessee may bring to the Demised Premises or which may be under Lessee’s care, custody and control which may be subject to any claim for damages or destruction shall never exceed the amount of insurance which Lessee is required to carry pursuant to this Lease. Lessee shall name Lessor (and at Lessor’s election, Lessor’s managing agent and/or mortgagee[s]) as an additional named insured as its interest may appear. If at any time the amount of personal property, fixtures, goods and inventory or other items located at the Demised Premises shall exceed said amount, Lessee covenants to so notify Lessor and at the same time increase the amount of insurance required to be carried pursuant to Section 33(B)(ii) to an amount sufficient to cover the aforesaid to preclude any liability on Lessor’s part to Lessee. Should Lessee fail to do so, or fail to maintain insurance coverage

 

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adequate to cover the aforesaid, naming Lessor (and at Lessor’s election, Lessor’s managing agent and/or mortgagee[s]) as an additional insured, then Lessee shall be in default hereunder and shall be deemed to have breached its covenants as set forth herein.

(D) All losses paid under the policy or policies carried pursuant to Subsections 33(A)(i), (ii) (iii) and (iv) shall be adjusted by Lessor and the proceeds thereof shall be payable to Lessor and all policies shall so provide. Except as provided in Section 5 hereof, notwithstanding the provisions of this Section of the Lease or any other provision of the Lease, in the event of any loss or damage to the Building, the Premises and/or any contents (herein “ property damage ”), each party waives all claims against the other and its or their agents, contractors, servants, employees and partners for any such loss or damage and each party shall look only to any insurance which it has obtained to protect against such loss (or in the case of Lessee, waives all claims against any tenant of the Building that has similarly waived claims against such Lessee) and each party shall obtain, for each policy of such All Risk insurance, provisions pursuant to which their insurance companies will waive any claims against the other party (and against any other tenant[s] in the Building that has waived subrogation against the Lessee) for loss or damage within the scope of such insurance. Neither party shall be liable to the other for any loss or damage caused by fire, water or any of the risks enumerated in the aforesaid All Risk coverage insurance, provided such insurance was obtainable at the time of such loss or damage. If such insurance policies are obtainable only by the payment of an additional premium charge, the same shall be obtained and such additional premium paid for by Lessee. If the release of either Lessor or Lessee, as set forth in the third sentence of Section 33(D) shall contravene any law with respect to exculpatory agreements, the liability of the party in question shall be deemed not released but shall be deemed secondary to the latter’s insurer.

(E) The policies of insurance required to be carried by Lessee under the terms of this Lease may be included, at the Lessee’s option, in a so-called “blanket policy” covering the Demised Premises and other properties owned or leased by Lessee, provided that such policies likewise comply with the insurance provisions set forth in this Lease, without possibility of reduction or co-insurance by reason of, or damage to any other premises named therein. If the insurance required by the provisions of this Lease shall be effected through blanket policies, Lessee shall furnish Lessor with certificates of insurance earmarking a specific amount of the insurance afforded by such policies as exclusively applicable to the Demised Premises and naming the Lessor and any mortgagee specified by Lessor as additional insureds.

34. RULES OF CONSTRUCTION/APPLICABLE LAW . Any table of contents, captions, headings and titles in this Lease are solely for convenience of reference and shall not affect its interpretation. This Lease shall be construed without regard to any presumption or other rule requiring construction against the party causing this Lease to be drafted. If any words or phrases in this Lease shall have been stricken out or otherwise eliminated, whether or not any other words or phrases have been added, this Lease shall be construed as if the words or phrases so stricken out or otherwise eliminated were never included in this Lease and no implication or inference shall be drawn from the fact that said words or phrases were so stricken out or otherwise eliminated. Each covenant, agreement, obligation or other provision of this Lease on Lessee’s part to be performed, shall be deemed and construed as a separate and independent covenant of Lessee, not dependent on any other provision of this Lease. All terms and words used in this Lease, regardless of the number or gender in

 

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which they are used, shall be deemed to include any other number and any other gender as the context may require. This Lease shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New Jersey (excluding New Jersey conflict of laws) and by the State courts of New Jersey. If any of the provisions of this Lease, or the application thereof to any person or circumstances, shall to any extent be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of this Lease, or the application of such provision or provisions to persons or circumstances other than those as to whom or which it is held invalid or unenforceable, shall not be affected thereby, and every provision of this Lease shall be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

35. APPLICABILITY TO SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS . The provisions of this Lease shall apply to, bind and inure to the benefit of Lessor and Lessee and their respective successors and assigns. It is understood that the term “ Lessor ” as used in this Lease means only the owner, a mortgagee in possession or a term lessee of the Building, so that in the event of any sale of the Building or of any lease thereof or if a mortgagee shall take possession of the Premises, Lessor named herein shall be and hereby is entirely freed and relieved of all covenants and obligations of Lessor hereunder accruing thereafter, and it shall be deemed without further agreement that the purchaser, the term lessee of the Building, or the mortgagee in possession has assumed and agreed to carry out any and all covenants and obligations of Lessor under this Lease, including, without limitation, the obligation to return the security deposit and to pay the Work Allowance and to pay any brokerage commission due and owing as it applies to the Demised Premises. Pursuant to the commission agreement described in Section 38 hereof, this Section 35 shall serve as notice to any purchaser of the Demised Premises and an assumption by said purchaser of Lessor’s obligations under said commission agreement. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 35, any mortgagee shall only be responsible to refund the security deposit if mortgagee receives the same from Lessor, and in no event shall any mortgagee be obligated to pay any brokerage commission due and owing as it applies to the Demised Premises.

36. PARKING SPACES . Lessee’s occupancy of the Demised Premises shall include at no cost to Lessee, the use of all parking spaces presently contained within the Office Building Area shown on the Site Plan annexed as Exhibit I hereto. Subject to the requirements of the applicable governmental approvals to be obtained in connection with the development of the Additional Building, Lessee’s parking spaces shall not be relocated outside of the ring road as shown on the Site Plan attached as Exhibit I hereto, whether or not Lessee becomes a tenant in the Additional Building.

37. LESSOR’S AND LESSEE’S EXCULPATION . (A) Lessor shall not be liable to Lessee for any loss suffered by Lessee under any circumstances, including, but not limited to (i) that arising from the negligence of Lessor, its agents, contractors, servants, invitees, contractors or subcontractors or from defects, errors or omissions in the construction or design of the Premises and/or the Building and/or Office Building Area including the structural and nonstructural portions thereof; or (ii) for loss of or injury to Lessee or to Lessee’s property or that for which Lessee is legally liable from any cause whatsoever, including but not limited to theft or burglary; or (iii) for that which results from or is incidental to the furnishing of or failure to furnish or the interruption in connection with the furnishing of any service which Lessor is obligated to furnish pursuant to this Lease; or (iv) for that which results from any inspection, repair, alteration or addition or the failure thereof undertaken or failed to be undertaken by Lessor; or (v) for any interruption to Lessee’s business, however occurring. In no event shall Lessor be liable to Lessee for consequential damages .

 

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(B) Lessee shall not be liable to Lessor for any damage to the Building or under any circumstances to Lessor’s property caused by (i) the negligence of Lessee, its agents, contractors, servants, invitees, contractors or subcontractors or from defects, errors or omissions in the construction or design of the Premises and/or the Building and/or Office Building Area including the structural and nonstructural portions thereof as the same have been leased to Lessee as of the date hereof; or (ii) for loss of or injury to Lessor or to Lessor’s property or that for which Lessor is legally liable from any cause whatsoever, including but not limited to theft or burglary; or (iii) any loss to Lessor’s property due to any repair, alteration or addition required pursuant to this Lease or undertaken or failed to be undertaken by Lessee and, to the extent of any insurance required to be maintained by Lessor pursuant to this Lease, resulting from any damage to the Building from any repairs, alterations or additions undertaken or failed to be undertaken by Lessee; or iv) any claim for interruption of Lessor’s business, in the event Lessor occupies and conducts business in any portion of the Building. In no event shall Lessee be liable to Lessor for consequential damages.

(C) The aforesaid exculpatory Section is to induce the Lessor, in its judgment, to avoid or minimize covering risks which are better quantified and covered by Lessee either through insurance (or self-insurance or combination thereof if specifically permitted pursuant to this Lease) thereby avoiding the need to increase the Rent charged to Lessee to compensate Lessor for the additional costs in obtaining said coverage or reserving against such losses. Nothing in this Section 37(A), (B), or (C) is intended (i) to absolve Lessor or Lessee from any claims by the other for breach of this Lease; or (ii) to exculpate Lessor as to Lessor’s negligence or intentional acts with respect to claims asserted against Lessee by third parties or to exculpate Lessee as to Lessee’s negligence or intentional acts with respect to claims asserted against Lessor by third parties. Third parties, as used herein, shall include employees of Lessee but shall exclude other tenants of the Building.

38. BROKER . Lessee and Lessor represent and warrant one to the other that Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation (“ Broker ”) is the sole broker with whom either party has negotiated in bringing about this Lease, and Lessee and Lessor agree to indemnify and hold each other harmless from any and all claims of other brokers and expenses in connection therewith arising out of or in connection with any breach of the foregoing representation and warranty. In no event shall Lessor’s mortgagee have any obligation to any broker involved in this transaction. Said commission shall be paid pursuant to the terms of a separate commission agreement between Lessor and Broker which shall also provide for the payment of a commission to Broker in connection with renewals of this Lease and Lessee’s leasing of the Additional Building pursuant to Section 57 hereof.

39. PERSONAL LIABILITY . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary provided in this Lease, it is specifically understood and agreed, such agreement being a primary consideration for the execution of this Lease by Lessor, that there shall be absolutely no personal liability on the part of Lessor, its constituent members (to include but not be limited to officers, directors, shareholders, partners, members, managers and trustees), their respective successors, assigns or any mortgagee in possession (for the purposes of this Section, collectively referred to as “ Lessor ”), with respect to any of the terms, covenants and conditions of this Lease, and that Lessee shall look solely to the equity of Lessor in the Building and any insurance proceeds, sale or refinancing proceeds or condemnation

 

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awards for the satisfaction of each and every remedy of Lessee in the event of any breach by Lessor- of -any of the terms, covenants and conditions of this Lease to be performed by Lessor, such exculpation of liability to be absolute and without any exceptions whatsoever. A deficit capital account of any portion in Lessor shall not be deemed an asset or property of Lessor. The foregoing limitation of liability shall be noted in any judgment secured against Lessor and in the judgment index. Lessor covenants that during the Term of this Lease (or any extensions or renewals thereof) Lessor shall not, in connection with any permanent financing or refinancing of the Building, borrow such that Lessor’s equity in the Building, net of such financing shall be less than the sum of One Million Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 ($1,500,000.00) Dollars as of the date of closing of such financing. In the event that any such financing results in Lessor’s equity in the Building falling below the sum of One Million Five $1,500,000.00, then and in such event, the exculpatory provisions of this Section 38 shall not apply to the extent of the difference between the sum of $ 1,500,000.00 and Lessor’s equity in the Building. For example, should any such financing result in Lessor’s equity in the Building being One Million Four Hundred Thousand and 00/100 ($1,400,000.00) Dollars at the time of the closing of such financing, then the exculpatory provisions of this Section 39 shall not apply to the sum of One Thousand and 00/100 ($100,000.00) Dollars; provided , however, that none of Lessor’s officers, directors, shareholders, partners, members, managers or trustees shall have any personal liability whatsoever. Lessor hereby covenants that it will not look to any officer, employee, partner or Affiliate of the Lessee (except the Guarantor) with respect to enforcing Lessee’s liability pursuant to the terms and provisions of this Lease.

40. NO OPTION . The submission of this Lease Agreement for examination does not constitute a reservation of or option for the Premises, and this Lease Agreement becomes effective as a Lease Agreement only upon execution and delivery thereof by Lessor and Lessee.

41. DEFINITIONS .

(A) Additional Rent . As used in this Lease, Additional Rent shall mean all sums in addition to Term Basic Rent payable by Lessee to Lessor pursuant to the provisions of this Lease.

(B) Affiliated Company . Affiliated Company with respect to either party shall mean any corporation, charity, trust or foundation (“ Entity ”) related to such party as a parent, subsidiary or brother-sister corporation so that such Entity and such party or such Entity and such party and other Entities constitute a controlled group as determined under Section 1563 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and as elaborated by the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder.

(C) Force Majeure . Force Majeure shall mean and include those situations beyond either party’s control, including by way of example and not by way of limitation, acts of God; accidents; repairs; strikes; shortages of labor, supplies or materials; inclement weather; or, where applicable, the passage of time while waiting for an adjustment of insurance proceeds. Any time limits required to be met by either party hereunder, whether specifically made subject to Force Majeure or not, except those related to the payment of Term Basic Rent or Additional Rent and except as to the time periods set forth in Section 11, shall, unless specifically stated to the contrary elsewhere in this Lease, be automatically extended by the number of days by which any performance called for is delayed due to Force Majeure.

 

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(D) Wing(s) . Lessor and Lessee acknowledge that each floor of the Building is comprised of three (3) wings (a “ Wing ” or “ Wings ”) as shown on Exhibit H attached hereto:

42. LEASE COMMENCEMENT . Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if Lessor, for any reason whatsoever including Lessor’s negligence, cannot deliver possession of the Demised Premises to Lessee at the commencement of the agreed Term as set forth in Section 2, this Lease shall not be void or voidable, nor shall Lessor be liable to Lessee for any loss or damage resulting therefrom, but in that event, the Term shall be for the full Term as specified above to commence from and after the date Lessor shall have delivered possession of the Demised Premises to Lessee as required by this Lease, and, if requested by Lessor or Lessee, Lessor and Lessee shall, by a writing signed by the parties, ratify and confirm said commencement and termination dates. If the delivery of possession is delayed by reason of the holding over of the existing Building tenant beyond the expiration of its Lease Term, Lessor shall, at Lessor’s expense, diligently pursue the recovery of possession of the Demised Premises, to include the immediate commencement and diligent prosecution of appropriate litigation, including an action for possession and enforcement of remedies.

43. NOTICES . Any notice by either party to the other shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given only if delivered personally or if sent by Federal Express or other recognized overnight courier service or if sent by registered mail or certified mail in a postpaid envelope addressed, if to Lessee, at the address as set forth above, Attn: Legal Department; and if to Lessor, at Lessor’s address as set forth above; or, to either at such other address as Lessee or Lessor, respectively, may designate in writing. Notice shall be deemed to have been duly given if delivered personally or sent by Federal Express or other recognized overnight courier service, on delivery thereof, and if mailed by certified mail, upon receipt or rejection thereof. Lessor shall not bring any action or proceeding against Lessee without first having actually served Lessee with a copy of the summons, complaint or other appropriate papers at the Premises.

44. INTENTIONALLY OMITTED .

45. 24-HOUR ACCESS . Lessee shall be entitled to twenty (24) hour, seven (7) day a week access to the Demised Premises, subject to any governmental or municipal laws and regulations with respect to said twenty-four (24) hour, seven (7) day a week access. Lessee shall obtain said access by means of card readers at Building entrances.

46. ACCORD AND SATISFACTION . No payment by Lessee or receipt by Lessor of a lesser amount than the Basic Rent and additional charges payable hereunder shall be deemed to be other than a payment on account of the earliest stipulated Monthly Basic Rent and Additional Rent, nor shall any endorsement or statement on any check or any letter accompanying any check or payment for Basic Rent or Additional Rent be deemed an accord and satisfaction, and Lessor may accept such check or payment without prejudice to Lessor’s right to recover the balance of such Basic Rent and Additional Rent or pursue any other remedy provided herein or by law.

 

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47. EFFECT OF WAIVERS . No failure by either party to insist upon the strict performance of any covenant, agreement, term or condition of this Lease or to exercise any right or remedy consequent upon a breach thereof, and no acceptance of full or partial installment of Monthly Basic Rent during the continuance of any such breach, shall constitute a waiver of any such breach or of such covenant, agreement, term or condition. No consent or waiver, express or implied, by either party to or of any breach of any covenant, condition or duty of the other party shall be construed as a consent or waiver to or of any other breach of the same or any other covenant, condition or duty, unless in writing signed by the party to be charged therewith.

48. NUMBER AND GENDER . The terms “Lessor” and “Lessee” wherever used herein shall be applicable to one or more persons, as the case may be, and the singular shall include the plural and neuter shall include the masculine and/or feminine, and if there be more than one , the obligations hereof shall be joint and several. The term “person” wherever used shall mean an individual, trust, estate, partnership, joint venture, association, company, corporation, or other entity.

49. LESSOR’S RESERVED RIGHT . Lessor and Lessee acknowledge that the Premises are in a Building which is not open to the general public. Access to the Building is restricted to Lessor, Lessee, their agents, contractors and employees and to their invited visitors. In the event of a labor dispute including a strike, picketing, informational or associational activities directed at Lessee or any other tenant, Lessor reserves the right unilaterally to alter Lessee’s ingress and egress to the Building or make any other change in operating conditions to restrict pedestrian, vehicular or delivery ingress and egress to a particular location.

50. INDEMNITY .

(A) Lessee’s Indemnity . Lessee shall indemnify, defend and save Lessor harmless against and from all liabilities, claims, suits, fines, penalties, damages, losses, fees, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) which may be imposed upon, incurred by or asserted against Lessor by reason of:

(i) Any work, act or thing done in or on the Demised Premises or any part thereof, and/or any work, act or thing done outside the Demised Premises by Lessee or Lessee’s employees, agents, contractors or representatives if the Building becomes a multi-tenant facility (unless caused or created by Lessor or Lessor’s employees, agents, contractors or representatives, or any condition which pre-exists Lessee’s occupancy of the Demised Premises, except to the extent exacerbated by Lessee, its employees, agents, contractors or representatives);

(ii) Any use, occupation, condition (unless caused or created by Lessor or Lessor’s employees, agents, contractors or representatives or any other tenant of the Building, or its employees, agents, contractors or representatives or any condition which pre-exists Lessee’s occupancy of the Demised Premises, except to the extent exacerbated by Lessee), or operation of the Demised Premises or any part thereof;

(iii) Any negligence on the part of Lessee or any of its subtenants, employees, licensees, contractors or invitees;

 

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(iv) Any accident, injury (including death) or damage to any third party or property owned by someone other than Lessee and not under the care, custody or control of Lessee occurring in, on or about the Demised Premises (unless caused or created by Lessor or Lessor’s employees, agents, contractors or representatives or any other tenant of the Building, or its employees, agents, contractors or representatives or any condition which pre-exists Lessee’s occupancy of the Demised Premises, except to the extent exacerbated by Lessee); and

(v) Any failure on the part of Lessee to perform or comply with any of the covenants, agreements, terms or conditions contained in this Lease.

(B) Lessor’s Indemnity . Lessor agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold Lessee and its respective agents and employees and the Guarantor and its respective agents and employees harmless from and against any and all third party claims, demands, actions, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorney’s fees) as a result of a claim against Lessee or the Guarantor and its respective agents and employees, by any person (other than Lessee, or its subtenants, licensees, employees, agents or contractors on the Premises) for injuries to any persons and damage to or loss of property occurring in or about the Building or Office Building Area as a result of Lessor’s negligence or willful acts or those of its agents, property manager, employees and contractors, or as a result of Lessor’s default in its obligations under this Lease. If any such proceeding is filed against Lessee or any such indemnified party, Lessor agrees to defend Lessee or such party in such proceeding at Lessor’s sole cost by legal counsel reasonably satisfactory to Lessee.

The provisions of this Section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of the Lease. Nothing in this Section 50 is intended to exculpate Lessor as to Lessor’s negligence or intentional acts with respect to claims asserted against Lessor by third parties. Third parties, as used herein, shall include employees of Lessee. Further, nothing in this Section 50 is intended to modify the indemnity provisions set forth in Subsection 5(J) of this Lease.

51. CORPORATE AUTHORITY . If Lessee is a corporation, Lessee represents and warrants that this Lease and the undersigned’s execution of this Lease has been duly authorized and approved by the corporation’s Board of Directors. The undersigned officers and representatives of the corporation executing this Lease on behalf of the corporation represent and warrant that they are officers of the corporation with authority to execute this Lease on behalf of the corporation, and within thirty (30) days of execution hereof, Lessee will provide Lessor with written evidence of such authority which may consist of a copy of a resolution generally authorizing transactions of the type of this Lease and the certification of a corporate officer of Lessee stating that such resolution is presently in full force and effect.

52. GOVERNMENT REQUIREMENTS . In the event of the imposition of federal, state, or local governmental control, rules, regulations, or restrictions on the use or consumption of energy or other utilities or with respect to any other aspect of this Lease during the Term, both Lessor and Lessee shall be bound thereby. In the event of a difference in interpretation of any governmental control, rule, regulation or restriction between Lessor and Lessee, the reasonable interpretation of Lessor shall prevail, and Lessor shall have the right to enforce compliance, including the right of entry into the Premises to effect compliance.

 

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53. SIGNS . No sign, advertisement or notice shall be affixed to or placed upon any part of the Demised Premises by Lessee, except in such manner, and of such size, design and color as shall be approved in advance in writing by Lessor, which approval Lessor shall not unreasonably withhold, provided that: (i) Lessee shall comply with all applicable governmental ordinances and regulations and receives all necessary governmental approvals required for erection and maintenance of the sign; and (ii) no later than the last day of the Term, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s expense, remove the sign and repair all injury done by or in connection with the installation or removal of the sign. Subject to the foregoing, Lessee shall have the right to erect a monument sign at the entrance to the Demised Premises, bearing Lessee’s name and logo. Furthermore, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Lessor shall cooperate with Lessee in attempting to obtain the appropriate municipal approvals in order for Lessee to display its name on a Building facade sign, at no cost to Lessor.

54. RENEWAL OPTION . Lessee is hereby granted two (2) options to renew this Lease upon the following terms and conditions:

(A) At the time of the exercise of each option to renew and at the commencement of each renewal period, no Event of Default in accordance with the terms and provisions of this Lease shall exist.

(B) Tentative notice of the exercise of the first option shall be sent to the Lessor in writing at least eighteen (18) months before the expiration of the Term of this Lease, and tentative notice of the exercise of the second option shall be sent to the Lessor in writing at least eighteen (18) months before the expiration of the first renewal option, TIME HEREBY BEING MADE OF THE ESSENCE.

(C) Each renewal term may, at Lessee’s sole option, be for five (5) years or ten (10) years each as Lessee shall elect in the notice required under Subsection 54(B) above, the first renewal term to commence at the expiration of the Term of this Lease, and the second renewal term to commence at the expiration of the first renewal term, and all of the terms and conditions of this Lease, other than the Annual Basic Rent, shall apply during any such renewal term.

(D) The Annual Basic Rent to be paid during the first renewal term shall not be less than that paid for the Demised Premises during the last year of the original Term of this Lease (without regard to any temporary abatement of rent then in effect pursuant to the Lease provisions); and the Annual Basic Rent to be paid during the second renewal term shall not be less than that paid for the Demised Premises during the last year of the first renewal term (without regard to any temporary abatement of rent then in effect pursuant to the Lease provisions). However, if ninety-five (95%) percent of the fair rental value per square foot at the commencements of either renewal term shall exceed the rent as established in the preceding sentence, the Lessee shall pay ninety-five (95%) percent of such fair rental value. In determining the fair rental value, the Lessor shall notify Lessee of the fair rental value as established by Lessor within fifteen (15) days of receipt of Lessee’s notice tentatively exercising the option. In establishing said fair rental value, the Lessor and any appraiser which may be appointed pursuant to this Subsection (D) are directed to consider all appropriate

 

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factors, to include the “AS IS” condition of the Premises, the absence of a tenant work letter, any rental concessions customarily given at the time to a non-renewal tenant on the basis of a five (5) year letting and other appropriate matters. The Lessor and any such appraiser are further directed to establish fair rental value for a six (6) month renewal term, based on the foregoing factors as the same may be applicable to such six (6) month renewal term. Should Lessee dispute Lessor’s determination, then the Lessee shall be free to, at the Lessee’s sole cost and expense, employ the services of an appraiser familiar with office buildings located within the Parsippany, New Jersey area comparable to the Building, who shall be a member of The Appraisal Institute (“ MAI ”) and who shall render an appraisal. If the Lessor and the Lessee’s appraiser cannot agree on the fair rental value, or in such case, on an independent appraiser acceptable to both within thirty (30) days following notification by Lessor of its determination of fair rental value, either party may request the American Arbitration Association of Somerset, New Jersey to appoint such independent appraiser who shall be a member of MAI familiar with office buildings in the area of the Building and in such event the decision of the majority of the two appraisers and Lessor as to fair market value shall be rendered in writing within fifteen (15) days of such appointment and shall be final and binding upon the parties, subject to Lessee’s right to rescind its tentative exercise of its renewal options. The parties shall share equally in the cost of any such independent appraiser. If fair market value has not been established as of the 60th day following Lessee’s tentative exercise of its renewal option(s), Lessee may, by notice to Lessor served within five (5) days of such sixtieth (60th) day, (a) rescind its tentative exercise of such renewal option and surrender possession of the Demised Premises on the Term expiration date or the expiration of the first renewal term as the case may be; or (b) extend the time for determination of fair rental value for thirty (30) days. If fair rental value has been established as of the sixtieth (60th) day following Lessee’s tentative exercise of its renewal option(s), Lessee may by notice to Lessor served within five (5) days of such sixtieth (60th) day (c) rescind its tentative exercise of its renewal option(s) and either (i) surrender possession of the Demised Premises on the Term expiration date, or the expiration of date of the first renewal term, as the case may be; or (ii) extend the Term of this Lease for thirty (30) days at the Monthly Basic Rent then in effect and/or for six (6) months at fair rental value; or (d) renew the Lease for the renewal term at fair rental value. If Lessee has elected to extend the time for determination of fair rental value for thirty (30) days, and fair rental value has not been established as of the ninetieth (90th) day following Lessee’s tentative exercise of its renewal option(s), Lessee may, by notice to Lessor served within five (5) days of such ninetieth (90th) day (e) rescind its tentative exercise of such renewal option(s) and surrender possession of the Demised Premises on the Term expiration date or the expiration date of the first renewal term, as the case may be (or the thirtieth (30th) day following such applicable expiration date at the Monthly Basic Rent then in effect and/or for six (6) months at fair rental value); or (f) extend the time for determination of fair rental value for another 30 days. If fair rental value has been established as of the ninetieth (90th) day following Lessee’s tentative exercise of its renewal option(s), Lessee may, by notice to Lessor served within five (5) days of such ninetieth (90th) day, (g) rescind its tentative exercise of its renewal option(s) and either (i) surrender possession of the Demised Premises on the Term expiration date, or the expiration date of the first renewal term, as the case may be; or (ii) extend the Term of this Lease for one month at the Monthly Basic Rent then in effect; and/or for six (6) months at fair rental value; or (h) renew the Lease for the renewal term at fair rental value.

If Lessee has elected to extend the time for determination of fair rental value for an aggregate of sixty (60) days, and fair rental value has not been established as of the one hundred twentieth

 

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(120th) day following Lessee’s tentative exercise of its renewal option(s) , Lessee may, by notice to Lessor served within five (5) days of such one hundred twentieth (120th) (i) rescind its tentative exercise of such renewal option and surrender possession of the Demised Premises on the Term expiration date or the expiration date of the first renewal term, as the case may be (or the 60th day following such applicable expiration date at the Monthly Basic Rent then in effect and/or for six (6) months at fair rental value); or (j) renew the Lease and accept Lessor’s determination of fair rental value. If fair rental value has been established as of the one hundred twentieth (120th) day following Lessee’s tentative exercise of its renewal option(s), Lessee may, by written notice to Lessor served within five (5) days of such one hundred twentieth (120th) day, (k) rescind its tentative exercise of its renewal option(s) and either (i) surrender possession of the Demised Premises on the Term expiration date, or the expiration of the first renewal term, as the case may be; or (ii) extend the Term of this Lease for two (2) months at the Monthly Basic Rent then in effect and/or for 6 months at fair market value; or (iii) renew the Lease for the renewal term at fair rental value.

55. FEES AND EXPENSES . The non-prevailing party shall pay the prevailing party, on demand, such expenses as the prevailing party may incur, including without limitation, court costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees and disbursements, in enforcing the performance of any obligation of the non-prevailing party under this Lease.

56. ADDITIONAL BUILDING .

(A) Expansion . Lessee acknowledges that an additional office building (the “ Additional Building ”) may be constructed within the Office Building Area. In such event and provided Lessee does not exercise its right pursuant to Section 56, this Lease shall be modified to reflect that Lessee shall pay its Proportionate Share of expenses in common with the tenants of the Additional Building, with respect to Common Facilities after the subdivision is perfected or the master deed recorded, as the case may be.

(B) Common Facilities . Common Facilities shall include by way of example, but not limitation, the lawns; ingress and egress roads; parking lots; service buildings, parkways, drives, green spaces, parks, driveway areas, whether or not such driveway areas are the subject of recorded driveway easements; sidewalks; drainage facilities; and fountains or retention ponds (if any); or other facilities owned, operated or maintained in whole or in part by Lessor or any other owner or operator of the Additional Building, from time to time that service both the Building and the Additional Building as shown on the site plan attached hereto as Exhibit I .

(C) Lessee’s Proportionate Share . Lessee’s Proportionate Share of Common Facilities shall be arrived at by dividing the gross square footage of the Building ( i.e 377,000 square feet) by the total number of gross square feet of the Building plus the total number of gross square feet of the Additional Building measured outside wall to outside wall. Lessor shall have the right to make changes or revisions in the Common Facilities, which will not unreasonably interfere with Lessee’s parking, ingress, egress or use of the Demised Premises.

(D) Parking . Lessee’s right to utilize parking spaces within the Office Building Area shall be as set forth in Section 36 above until such time, if ever, as the Additional Building may

 

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be constructed; whereupon in the event Lessee shall fail to have exercised its right of first offer with respect to the First Offer Space pursuant to Section 57, Lessor shall assign and designate parking spaces for Lessee’s use within the Office Building Area and the parking lot which will service the Additional Building in accordance with the site plan attached hereto as Exhibit J.

57. RIGHT OF FIRST OFFER . Provided an Event of Default has not occurred, until June 30, 2002, Lessee shall have the exclusive right of first offer to lease all (but not a portion of) the space contained in the Additional Building (hereinafter referred to as the “ First Offer Space ”), which may be constructed at the Demised Premises. Lessor will advise Lessee of the availability of the First Offer Space and Lessee shall have twenty (20) days from receipt of Lessor’s notice setting forth all of the provisions which Lessor would accept, including, without limitation, the Basic and Additional Rent, the term any concessions of allowances and any other relevant matters, within which to respond to Lessor’s offer, TIME HEREBY BEING MADE OF THE ESSENCE. The term of the First Offer Space shall expire coterminously with the expiration date of the Lease, as the same may be extended or renewed. Lessor shall offer the First Offer Space to Lessee at an Annual Basic Rent equal to the then fair market rental rate. Should Lessee elect to lease the First Offer Space, it shall do so at the rate and upon the terms set forth in Lessor’s offer. Should Lessee dispute Lessor’s determination of the fair market rental rate, then the Lessee shall be free to, at the Lessee’s sole cost and expense, employ the services of an appraiser familiar with office buildings located within the Parsippany, New Jersey area comparable to the Building, who shall be a member of The Appraisal Institute (“ MAI ”) and who shall render an appraisal. If the Lessor and the Lessee’s appraiser cannot agree on the fair market rental rate, or in such case, on an independent appraiser acceptable to both, either party may request the American Arbitration Association of Somerset, New Jersey to appoint such independent appraiser who shall be a member of MAI familiar with office buildings in the area of the Building and in such event the judgment of a majority of the two appraisers and Lessor shall be final and binding upon the parties. The parties shall share equally in the cost of any such independent appraiser. Pending resolution of the issue of fair market rental rate, the Lessee shall pay Lessor the Basic Rent as established by Lessor, subject to retroactive adjustment upon final determination of this issue. Should Lessee elect to lease the First Offer Space, the description of the Demised Premises and Basic Rent shall be adjusted to reflect the inclusion of the First Offer Space. Should Lessee decline Lessor’s offer or fail to respond, then Lessee shall lose any prospective rights of first offer with respect to the First Offer Space, and Lessor shall be free during the next twelve (12) months to lease the First Offer Space to any other tenant upon substantially the same terms and conditions as that offered to Lessee, failing which Lessor shall once again be obliged to offer the First Offer Space to Lessee. Substantially, as used herein, shall mean terms not materially different or a rent of not more than five (5%) percent below the rent requested by Lessor of Lessee less the difference, if any, between the leasing commission which would have been payable had Lessee accepted Lessor’s offer and the leasing commission in connection with such other tenants’ acceptance of Lessor’s offer. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that, at any time after June 30, 2002, Lessor shall market the Additional Building on a multi-tenant basis rather than to a single user, Lessor shall have the exclusive right of first offer to lease not less than one entire floor of the Additional Building (the “ Alternate First Offer Space ”). Lessor will advise Lessee of the availability of the Alternate First Offer Space and Lessee shall have ten (10) days from receipt of Lessor’s notice setting forth all of the provisions which Lessor would accept, including without limitation, the Basic and Additional Rent, any concessions or allowances and any other relevant matters, within which to respond to Lessor’s

 

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offer, TIME HEREBY BEING MADE OF THE ESSENCE: The term of the Alternate First Offer Space shall expire coterminously with the expiration date of the Lease, as the same may be extended or renewed. Lessor shall offer the Alternate First Offer Space at the fair market rental rate. Should the Lessee dispute the fair market rental rate, the dispute resolution procedure set forth above in this Section 57 shall apply. Pending resolution of the issue of fair market rental rate, the Lessee shall pay Lessor the Basic Rent as established by Lessor, subject to retroactive adjustment upon final determination of the issue. Should Lessee elect to lease the Alternate First Offer Space, the description of the Demised Premises and Basic Rent shall be adjusted to reflect the inclusion of the Alternate First Offer Space. Should Lessee decline Lessor’s offer or fail to respond, then Lessee shall lose any prospective rights of first offer with respect to the Additional Building and Lessor shall be free during the next twelve (12) months to lease the Alternate First Offer Space to any other tenant upon substantially the same terms and conditions as that offered to Lessee, failing which Lessor shall once again be obliged to offer the Alternate First Offer Space to Lessee. Substantially, as used herein, shall mean terms not materially less favorable to Lessor or a rent of not more than five (5%) percent below the rent requested by Lessor of Lessee less the difference, if any, between the leasing commission which would have been payable had Lessee accepted Lessor’s offer and the leasing commission in connection with such other tenants’ acceptance of Lessor’s offer.

58. WORK ALLOWANCE/EARLY OCCUPANCY . Lessor shall permit Lessee access to the Demised Premises upon full execution of this Lease for purposes of planning, measuring, surveying and purposes related thereto. Lessee shall be permitted to enter upon and Lessor shall deliver “Vacant” (i.e. not occupied by people and broom clean, but including furniture, fixtures and equipment leased to Lessee by the existing Building tenant pursuant to a separate agreement) possession of the third (3rd) floor of the Building and not less than one Wing designated by Lessor on the second (2nd) floor of the Building (consisting of approximately 170,000 gross rentable square feet of space) (“ Phase I ”) on March 15, 2001 or on such earlier date as Lessor may make Phase I available to Lessee, and upon the remainder of the Building (consisting of approximately 207,000 gross rentable square feet of space) (“ Phase II ”) on July 1, 2001. During the period prior to the Commencement Date, Lessee shall comply with Section 33 hereof and Lessee shall pay Lessor for the costs of electricity consumed by Lessee and other Building Operating Costs and Real Estate Taxes (collectively, the “Early Occupancy Costs”), which Lessor shall bill on a monthly basis and Lessee shall pay within thirty (30) days of receipt of such bill, based on the gross rentable square feet of the Building delivered to and accepted by Lessee divided by the gross rentable square feet of the entire Building. Lessee shall be under no obligation to pay any Monthly Basic Rent required by Section 3 hereof until the Commencement Date, but shall otherwise comply with all of the terms and provisions of this Lease. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if (a) Lessor shall not have delivered Vacant possession of the entire third (3rd) floor of the Building on March 15, 2001; or (b) Lessor shall not have delivered Vacant possession of one full Wing on the second floor of the Building on March 30, 2001; or (c) Lessor shall not have delivered Vacant possession of all of Phase II on July 1, 2001, as such dates may be extended by reasons of Force Majeure; or (d) in the event that Lessee is unable to obtain one or more conditional or unconditional certificates of occupancy for the Premises because the condition of the Building fails to comply with all applicable laws and ordinances as of the date of this Lease due not as a result of any work of Lessee, but related solely to non-compliance of the Premises as of the date of this Lease with respect to any applicable law, then, in any such event, Lessee shall be entitled to a one (1) day Basic and Additional Rent abatement for

 

40


each day beyond March 15, 2001 as to the third floor of the Building, for each day beyond March 30, 2001, as to one full Wing on the second floor of the Building and for each day beyond July 1, 2001 as to Phase II, as such dates may be extended for reasons of Force Majeure, and for each day that Lessee is unable to obtain one or more conditional or unconditional certificates of occupancy for the reason described in clause (d) above, until Vacant possession of the applicable space is delivered by Lessor, or until Lessee is able to take lawful occupancy of the Premises pursuant to a conditional or unconditional certificate of occupancy for the uses permitted under Section 4 hereof. The aggregate number of days Rent abatement for Basic and Additional Rent for such applicable portion of gross rentable square feet of space shall be applied as a credit against the Annual Basic Rent and to a proportionate reduction of the Monthly Basic Rent for the first year of the Term. In addition to, and not in limitation of the abatements of Basic and Additional Rent provided for hereinabove in this Section 58, in the event that Lessor fails to deliver one full Vacant Wing on the second floor of the Building on or before April 30, 2001, the abatement of Basic and Additional Rent described above shall apply with respect to the entire Phase I and Lessee shall have no obligation to pay the Early Occupancy Costs with respect to the entire Vacant Phase I for each day commencing on March 30, 2001, and ending on the day the entire Phase I space is delivered to Lessee, as such dates may be extended for reasons of Force Majeure. In addition, if clause (d) above applies, Lessor shall be responsible, at its sole cost, to remedy the conditions preventing the conditional or unconditional certificate of occupancy from being issued, which, together with such abatement shall be Lessee’s sole remedy. In no event shall any such delay postpone Lessee’s obligation to commence the payment of Rent as of the Commencement Date subject, however, to any abatement pursuant to this Lease to which Lessor is entitled. In consideration of the acceptance by Lessee of the Premises in “AS IS” condition, Lessor shall pay to Lessee a Work Allowance in the sum of Four Million and 00/100 ($4,000,000.00) Dollars, Lessee shall submit a written request for payment on or before the twenty-fifth (25th) of each month, along with copies of paid invoices and/or Lessee’s affidavit stating the contractors or suppliers to which the costs for which the applicable portion of the Work Allowance is sought have been incurred for occupancy-related expenses or moving expenses have been paid, and Lessor will render payment on or before the fifteenth (15th) day of each following month. The unused portion, if any, of the Work Allowance shall be funded by Lessor no later than November 15, 2001, and the same shall also be used for occupancy-related expenses or moving expenses. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the preceding sentence, Lessor shall repair the damage within the parking area as described in the Eckland Report and shall repair the irrigation system so that it is in working order not later than May 15, 2001, provided that such repair obligations shall not exceed in the aggregate the sum of Ten Thousand and 00/100 ($10,000.00) Dollars.

59. BUILDING MANAGEMENT . Throughout the Term of this Lease and any renewal thereof, Gale & Wentworth, L.L.C. shall provide property management services for the Demised Premises typically associated with first class office buildings, for which Lessee will pay to Lessor an annual management fee equal to two (2%) percent of the Annual Basic Rent then in effect, such obligation to be included as a Building Operating Cost.

60. SALE OF DEMISED PREMISES . In the event that, at any time during the Term, Lessor markets the sale of the Demised Premises to the general public, Lessor agrees to provide Lessee with Lessor’s marketing materials and Lessee shall have the right to make an offer to Lessor. This right will not preclude Lessor from entering into a transaction with a third party with whom Lessor has had a contractual or investor relationship.

 

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61. GUARANTY . This Lease is expressly conditioned on the execution by Cendant Corporation of the guaranty of the terms, covenants and conditions in this Lease to be performed and observed by Lessee in the form and substance attached hereto and made a part hereof as Exhibit J, which guaranty shall be accompanied by a corporate resolution authorizing the execution thereof, or the opinion of counsel confirming the corporate authority of the signatories thereto.

62. RECORDING . Lessor or Lessee agrees that either party may record, at its expense, a memorandum of this Lease, which memorandum shall include the description, term, right of first offer and renewal option, if any, only and the other party will cooperate in the endeavor and execute the memorandum. Should Lessee seek to record a memorandum prior to the commencement date of this Lease, then, and in such event, it will contemporaneously therewith deliver a cancellation of the memorandum to be held in escrow by Martin E. Dollinger, Esq. to only be recorded in the event of Lessee’s failure to take possession or Lessee’s commission of any other default prior to the commencement date of this Lease.

63. ROOFTOP EQUIPMENT . Provided Lessor shall have the continued ability to lawfully allow other tenants (if the Building is then occupied by tenants other than Lessee by virtue of Lessor’s recapture of space within the Demised Premises) or itself the right to install roof top antennas or other communication devices upon not more than 50% of the space available on the roof of the Building, Lessee shall have the right to install, at its sole cost and expense, such telecommunications equipment, including, without limitation, satellite dishes and antennas (“Rooftop Equipment”), together with the right to install such risers and conduits and to install such wiring to the roof as may be required to install the Rooftop Equipment on the roof of the Building, said Rooftop Equipment to not display any name, logo or identity, and to be installed at Lessee’s sole cost in compliance with any and all necessary governmental approvals. Lessee shall be responsible for any damage caused to the Building in connection with said Rooftop Equipment and indemnifies and holds Lessor harmless from all direct and indirect costs, expenses, and claims resulting therefrom. Lessee shall use such contractor as Lessor shall designate for the installation of the Rooftop Equipment. At Lessee’s option, Lessee may designate its own contractor for Lessor’s approval, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. Lessee agrees not to interfere with other radio transmission or reception equipment properly located at the Building. If Lessee should cause such interference, Lessee shall cease its operation and, at its sole cost and expense, immediately take the necessary and appropriate action to eliminate and correct such interference before resuming operation. Such corrective action may include, but not be limited to, Lessor’s relocation of the Rooftop Equipment and any related equipment, the cost of which Lessee shall pay to Lessor, as Additional Rent, within thirty (30) days of Lessee’s receipt of a bill therefor. Upon the expiration or sooner termination of the Term of this Lease, Lessee, at Lessor’s option, shall remove said Rooftop Equipment and/or the risers, conduits or wiring installed in connection therewith and repair all injury done by or in connection with the installation or removal of the same.

64. COUNTERPARTS . This Lease may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written.

 

ONE CAMPUS ASSOCIATES, L.L.C., Lessor

By:

 

/s/ Christopher F. Sameth

Name:

 

Christopher F. Sameth

Title:

 

Authorized Representative

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., Lessee

By:

 

/s/ David B. Wyshner

Name:

 

David B. Wyshner

Title:

 

SVP, Planning & Development

 

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Exhibit 10.13(a)

FIRST AMENDMENT OF LEASE

This First Amendment of Lease (“First Amendment”) entered into this 16 th day of October, 2001, by and between ONE CAMPUS ASSOCIATES, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company, with offices at c/o Gale & Wentworth Real Estate Advisors, L.L.C., 200 Campus Drive, Suite 200, Florham Park, New Jersey 07932 (“Lessor”) and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., a Delaware corporation, having an address at One Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (“Lessee”).

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee entered into a lease dated December 29, 2000 (the “Lease”) for approximately 377,000 square feet of space located in the building known as and located at One Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey (the “Building”); and

WHEREAS, Lessee has retained the services of Gale & Wentworth Construction Services, LLC (“Contractor”) to construct certain leasehold improvements at the Building; and

WHEREAS, the Lease incorrectly states that Landlord is a New Jersey limited partnership; and

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee mutually desire to modify certain provisions of the Lease.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and promises contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows:

 

  1. The Preamble to the Lease is modified to reflect that Landlord is a Delaware limited liability company.

 

  2. Effective May 2, 2001, Lessor is authorized by Lessee to make payments pursuant only to Lessee’s direction to the Contractor, for services and materials covered by the Work Allowance (as defined in Section 58 of the Lease).

 

  3. Lessee shall submit to Lessor on or before the twenty-fifth (25 th ) day of each month, (a) copies of unpaid invoices covered by the Work Allowance and/or (b) Lessee’s affidavit setting forth (i) the costs for which the applicable portion of the Work Allowance is sought for payment to the Contractor and (ii) that said costs have been incurred for occupancy-related expenses or moving expenses (“Allowable Expenses”).


  4. Lessor will render payment to the Contractors in connection with the Allowable Expenses on or before the fifteenth (15 th ) day of each month following the payment request by Lessee pursuant to Paragraph 3 hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessor shall only render payment for invoices received by Lessor by October 25, 2001. Lessee shall be solely responsible* for the payment of all invoices not received by Lessor by October 25, 2001.

 

  * subject to reimbrusement of the undisbursed Work Allowance pursuant to Section 5 below,

 

  5. All disbursements made by Lessor pursuant to Section 58 of the Lease, as amended herein, will reduce the remaining Work Allowance on a dollar for dollar basis by the amounts disbursed by Lessor for Allowable Expenses. The undisbursed Work Allowance shall be paid by Lessor to Lessee no later than November 15, 2001. Under no circumstances shall the Work Allowance exceed Four Million and 00/100 Dollars ($4,000,000.00).

 

  6. Section 58 of the Lease is hereby modified to divide the approximately 207,000 gross rentable square feet of space comprising Phase II into Phase II A consisting of 41,667 gross rentable square feet (“Phase II-A”) and Phase II B consisting of 165,333 gross rentable square feet of space (Phase II-B”).

 

  7. Lessor delivered, and Lessee accepted, Phase II-A on August 8, 2001, to fulfill Lessor’s obligations pursuant to Section 58 of the Lease regarding Phase II-A.

 

  8. Lessor delivered, and Lessee accepted, Phase II-B on August 14, 2001, to fulfill Lessor’s obligations pursuant to Section 58 of the Lease regarding Phase II-B.

 

  9. The provisions of Section 58 of the Lease which provide a Rent abatement to Lessee for late delivery of Phase II of the Building by certain dates, to be amortized over the first twelve (12) months of the Lease, are deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following:

Lessee shall receive a Rent abatement for Basic and Additional Rent for the first twenty three (23) days in December, 2001 (the “December Abatement”). Lessee’s sole obligation for Basic and Additional Rent for the month of December, 2001, shall be for the period December 24 th through December 31, 2001.

 

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  10. The December Abatement provided to Lessee pursuant to Paragraph 9 hereof, satisfies Lessor’s obligations for late delivery of Phase II to Lessee under Section 58 of the Lease.

 

  11. Except as otherwise provided in this First Amendment, all defined terms contained in this First Amendment shall, for the purposes hereof, have the same meanings ascribed to them in the Lease.

 

  12. Lessor and Lessee represent that the undersigned officers of their respective corporations have been duly authorized to enter into this First Amendment of Lease in accordance with the terms, covenants and conditions set forth herein.

 

  13. This First Amendment may not be changed orally, but only by a writing signed by both Lessor and Lessee.

 

  14. The mailing or delivery of this document or any draft of this document by Lessor or its agent to Lessee, its agent or attorney shall not be deemed an offer by Lessor on the terms set forth in this document or draft, and this document or draft may be withdrawn or modified by Lessor or its agent at any time and for any reason. The purpose of this section is to place Lessee on notice that this document or draft shall not be effective, nor shall Lessee have any rights with respect hereto, unless and until Lessor shall execute and accept this document. No representations or promises shall be binding on the parties hereto except those representations and promises contained in a fully executed copy of this document or in some future writing signed by Lessor and Lessee.

 

  15. Except as expressly modified herein, the Lease shall remain in full force and effect. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this First Amendment and the Lease, the provisions of this First Amendment shall control.

 

  16. The within First Amendment shall be construed and enforced in accordance with Section 34 of the Lease.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have executed and delivered this Agreement the day and year first above written.

 

ATTEST:

   

LESSOR:

   

ONE CAMPUS ASSOCIATES, L.L.C.

Illegible

 

   

BY:

 

/s/ Christopher F. Sameth

     

Name:

 

Christopher F. Sameth

     

Title:

 

Authorized Representative

ATTEST:

   

LESSEE:

   

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.

/s/ Donna L. Madsen

   

BY:

 

/s/ Thomas F. Anderson

     

Name:

 

Thomas F. Anderson

     

Title:

 

Vice President

 

4

Exhibit 10.13(b)

SECOND AMENDMENT TO LEASE

THIS SECOND AMENDMENT TO LEASE (this “Amendment”), made and entered into as of the 7 day of June, 2002, by and between ONE CAMPUS ASSOCIATES, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company, having an address of c/o: The Gale Management Company, L.L.C., 200 Campus Drive, Suite 200, Florham Park, NJ 07932 (“Lessor”), and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., a Delaware corporation, having an address of c/o Cendant Corporation, 1 Campus Drive, Parsippany, NJ 07054 (“Lessee”);

W I T N E S S E T H     T H A T:

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee entered into that certain Lease dated December 29, 2000, as amended by that certain First Amendment of Lease dated October 16, 2001 (as amended, the “Lease”) for the lease of the entire office building consisting of approximately 377,000 square feet of space (the “Building”) and land and related improvements (the “Office Building Area”) known as One Campus Drive, located at One Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey (collectively, the “Demised Premises”);

WHEREAS, the Lease and Tenant’s obligations thereunder are guaranteed by Cendant Corporation (“Guarantor”) pursuant to that certain Guaranty of Lease dated December 29, 2000 (the “Guaranty”);

WHEREAS, the Lease contains certain provisions relating to the construction by Lessor of an “Additional Building” within the Office Building Area, all of which property is currently owned by Lessor;

WHEREAS, Lessor has entered into a contract for the purchase and sale of the Building and portions of the Office Building Area (not including the land on which the Additional Building and certain improvements are to be built) and, in connection therewith, and as contemplated under the terms of Section 25(G) and 56 of the Lease, Lessor has completed the subdivision of the Office Building Area into two separate parcels, being Lot 3.07 (the Lot on which the Building and the remainder of the Office Building Area will be located) and Lot 3.12 (the Lot on which the Additional Building, a parking lot and other related facilities within a portion of the Office Building Area are intended to be constructed);

WHEREAS, in connection with the foregoing, Lessor and Lessee desire to amend the Lease to reflect the reduction in the Demised Premises and that upon Lessor’s sale of the Building and portions of the Office Building Area, Lessee’s and the Lessor’s rights and obligations under the Lease with respect to the Additional Building shall cease and that certain rights of Tenant shall be affected; and

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee desire to evidence the foregoing and to amend certain other terms and conditions of the Lease and evidence their agreements and other matters by means of this Amendment;

 

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NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00), the mutual covenants contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt, adequacy and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Lease is hereby amended and the parties hereto do hereby agree as follows:

 

1. Demised Premises . Effective as of May 31, 2002 (the “Effective Date”), the area constituting the Demised Premises shall be reduced and shall thereafter be deemed to consist of and shall consist only of the Building and that parcel of land being Lot 3.07, Block 202 as described on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference. That portion of the Demised Premises retained by Lessor on which the Additional Building may be built shall be referred to herein as Lot 3.12, Block 202 as described on Exhibit B attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference. From and after the Effective Date, all references in the Lease to the “Demised Premises” shall be deemed to mean and shall only mean the Building and that portion of the Office Building Area as described on Exhibit A attached hereto, being Lot 3.07, Block 202.

 

2. Additional Building . As of the Effective Date, Lessor and Lessee hereby agree that the Lease shall be amended to delete all references to the “Additional Building” and that neither Lessee nor the Lessor shall have any further rights or obligations with respect to the Additional Building under this Lease. In particular, the Lease shall be specifically amended as follows:

 

  (a) Section 15 - The words “or within the Additional Building” contained in the third (3 r d ) line from the bottom of the first (1 st ) full paragraph of such Section are hereby deleted in their entirety.

 

  (b) Section 24(A) - The words “and leasing and development of the Additional Building” in the seventeenth (17 th ) line from the bottom of the paragraph on page 22 of the Lease are hereby deleted in their entirety. In addition, the words “costs attributable to the Additional Building if said Additional Building is not on a parcel which is subdivided from the Premises;” and the words “and any costs associated with the development of the Additional Building, including costs which relate to the Demised Premises, but would not have been incurred but for the development of the Additional Building;” contained on the top of page 23 are hereby deleted in their entirety and the Lessor and Lessee agree that Lessee shall not be obligated to pay any Building Operating Costs or costs of any nature whatsoever, including but not limited to the site improvement work to be completed on the Demised Premises or the Additional Building lot in accordance with the terms of that certain construction agreement dated June 7, 2002 between the current Lessor and the contract purchaser of the Demised Premises, DB Real Estate One Campus Drive, L.P. (“Purchaser”), attributable to the Additional Building.

 

  (c)

Section 25 - Section 25(G) of the Lease is hereby deleted in its entirety and is replaced with the words “Intentionally Deleted.” The Lot on which the

 

2


 

Additional Building is located is a separate tax lot and will be separately assessed for real estate tax purposes. Lessor and Lessee agree that Lessee shall not be obligated to pay any Real Estate Taxes, Water or Sewer Rents or any other charges pursuant to Article 25, or elsewhere, in the Lease, related to the lot on which the Additional Building is located.

 

  (d) Section 36 - Section 36 of the Lease is hereby amended by deleting the second sentence of such Section in its entirety.

 

  (e) Section 38 - The words “and Lessee’s leasing of the Additional Building pursuant to Section 57 hereof in the last line of Section 38 are hereby deleted in their entirety.

 

  (f) Section 56 - Section 56 (Additional Building) is hereby deleted in its entirety and is hereby replaced with the words “Intentionally Deleted.”

 

  (g) Section 57 - Section 57 (Right of First Offer) is hereby deleted in its entirety and is hereby replaced with the words “Intentionally Deleted.”

 

3. Declarations; Zoning .

(a) Declarations . Lessee acknowledges that it has read and reviewed the Declarations, which are attached hereto as Exhibit C, and acknowledges that the Lease shall be subject and subordinate to such Declarations. Lessee acknowledges that as of the Effective Date the Declarations will permit and subject certain portions of the Demised Premises to certain easement rights, covenants, restrictions, and encumbrances (the “Restrictions”) as specified therein in favor of the owner of Lot 3.12 in connection with the development of the Additional Building and Lot 3.12. Lessee hereby acknowledges such Restrictions. Lessee agrees to execute an instrument reasonably acceptable to Lessee to evidence such subordination of the Lease to the Declarations, which agreement shall be substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit D .

 

4. Parking . In addition to the foregoing, Lessee acknowledges that a portion of the parking lot within the Office Building Area which it currently uses is located on Lot 3.12, which parking will be terminated as of the Effective Date. Such parking shall be reconfigured by the named Lessor herein in accordance with the site plan, a copy of which has been previously delivered to Lessee and a schedule of which is attached hereto as Exhibit E and incorporated herein by this reference.

 

5. Release of Lessor; Relinquishment by Lessee . Lessee hereby acknowledges and agrees that as of the Effective Date, the Lessor under the Lease shall have no obligations or liability to Lessee with respect to the Additional Building whatsoever, except as set forth in the Declaration, and that Lessor is hereby fully released from any and all such obligations or liabilities. Lessee hereby further acknowledges and agrees that, as of the Effective Date, it shall have no further rights or obligations with respect to the Additional Buildings Lessee hereby fully relinquishing same.

 

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6. Sale of Demised Premises . Lessee hereby acknowledges that it has received various marketing materials from Lessor pursuant to Section 60 of the Lease in connection with Lessor’s sale of the Demised Premises (or portion thereof) and that Lessee hereby waives its right to make an offer to purchase or to purchase the Demised Premises (or so much as is being sold by Lessor) in connection with the specific sale referenced herein.

 

7. Property Manager . Section 59 of the Lease is hereby amended by deleting said section in its entirety and replacing it with the following new provision:

BUILDING MANAGEMENT . Upon Lessor’s sale of the Building to a third party, Lessor shall cause its successor to agree that at Lessee’s option, (i) such successor of Lessor shall employ a new property management company to provide property management services for the Demised Premises that are typically associated with first class office property management, at an annual rate not to exceed two percent (2%) of the Annual Basic Rent then in effect, or (ii) Lessee shall be responsible, either by way of self-management or providing for third party property management services for the Demised Premises typically associated with first class office buildings. In the event Lessee chooses option (ii), Lessee shall provide Lessor with ninety (90) days advance notice and Lessor and Lessee shall enter into an amendment to the Lease to reflect that Lessor shall have no further obligation for property management and to appropriately modify the economic terms (Annual Basic Rental and Building Operating Costs) to reflect that Lessee shall be responsible for 100% of all Building Operating Costs (excluding those items expressly excluded from Building Operating Costs in Section 24(a) of the Lease) and to further provide that Lessee, rather than Lessor, shall be responsible for the conduct and oversight of the maintenance, operation and management of the Demised Premises and repair and replacement of Building Systems, in each case on terms to be mutually agreed between Lessor and Lessee, but subject to Lessor’s obligations with respect to Building Structure in accordance with the terms of the Lease.

 

8. Enforcement Under Construction Agreement . Lessor hereby acknowledges that it is a party to that certain construction agreement between the current Lessor and the Purchaser dated June 7, 2002 (the “Construction Agreement”), a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit E. Lessor hereby represents and warrants to Lessee that it will diligently, in the exercise of its reasonable commercial judgment, and with due consideration of Lessee’s rights as tenant by and through the terms of its Lease with Lessor, and in good faith pursue and enforce all of its rights and obligations under such Construction Agreement.

 

9. Entire Agreement . This Amendment contains and embodies the entire Amendment of the parties hereto, and no representations, inducements, or agreements, oral or otherwise, between the parties not contained in this Amendment shall be of any force or effect. This Amendment may not be modified, changed or terminated in whole or in part in any manner other than by an agreement in writing duly signed by both parties hereto.

 

10. Capitalized Terms . All capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Lease.

 

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11. Binding Agreement . This Amendment shall not be valid and binding on Lessor and Lessee unless and until it has been completely executed by and delivered to both parties.

 

12. Counterparts . This Amendment may be executed in one (1) or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

 

13. Governing Law . This Amendment shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State of New Jersey.

EXCEPT AS expressly amended and modified hereby, the Lease shall otherwise remain in full force and effect, the parties hereto hereby ratifying and confirming the same. To the extent of any inconsistency between the Lease and this Amendment, the terms of the Lease shall control.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned parties have duly executed this Amendment as of the day and year first above written.

 

LESSOR:
ONE CAMPUS ASSOCIATES, L.L.C.
A Delaware limited liability company
By:  

/s/ Christopher F. Sameth

Print Name: Christopher F. Sameth
Title: Authorized Representative
LESSEE:
CENDANT OPERATIONS, L.L.C.
A Delaware limited liability company
By:  

/s/ Thomas Anderson

Print Name: Thomas Anderson
Title: SVP

 

5

Exhibit 10.13(c)

THIRD AMENDMENT TO LEASE

THIS THIRD AMENDMENT TO LEASE (this “Amendment”), made and entered into as of the 28th day of April, 2003, by and between DB REAL ESTATE ONE CAMPUS DRIVE, L.P., a New Jersey limited partnership, having an address of c/o: DB Real Estate Investment Management, GmbH, Mr. Kurt-Georg Mayer, Mergenthalerallee 73-75, D-65760 Eschborn, Germany (“Lessor”), and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., a Delaware corporation, having an address of 6 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054 (“Lessee”);

W I T N E S S E T H     T H A T:

WHEREAS, One Campus Associates, L.L.C. (“Original Lessor”) and Lessee entered into that certain Lease dated December 29, 2000, as amended by that certain First Amendment of Lease dated October 16, 2001 and that certain Second Amendment to Lease dated as of June 7, 2002 (as amended, the “Lease”) for the lease of the entire office building consisting of approximately 377,000 square feet of space (the “Building”) and land and related improvements known as One Campus Drive, located at One Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey (collectively, the “Demised Premises”), which Lease is guaranteed by Cendant Corporation (“Guarantor”) pursuant to that certain Guaranty of Lease dated December 29, 2000 (the “Guaranty”);

WHEREAS, Lessor has succeeded to the interest of Original Lessor in the Demised Premises;

WHEREAS , Lessee has notified Lessor of its election to self manage the Demised Premises as permitted by the amended Section 59 of the Lease;

WHEREAS, in connection with the foregoing, Lessor and Lessee desire to amend the Lease to reflect Lessee’s election; and

WHEREAS, Lessor and Lessee desire to evidence the foregoing and to amend certain other terms and conditions of the Lease and evidence their agreements and other matters by means of this Amendment;


NOW THEREFORE , in consideration of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00), the mutual covenants contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt, adequacy and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Lease is hereby amended and the parties hereto do hereby agree as follows:

1. Effective April 7, 2003 (“Effective Date”), the Lease shall be modified as follows:

(a) Building Management . Section 59 of the Lease shall be deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: “Lessee shall be responsible, at its sole cost and expense, either by way of self-management or by third-party property management services, to manage, maintain, repair and operate the Demised Premises in a manner which is suitable for first class office buildings in the Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey area. Any third party management company shall be retained pursuant to a separate written agreement and the vendor or provider shall be subject to Lessor’s prior approval, which approval will not be unreasonably withheld. Lessee shall ensure at all times during the Term, that Lessor has current copies of its management contract and any service contracts entered into by or on behalf of Lessee with respect to the Demised Premises, and Lessee covenants and agrees that all of such third party property management and service contracts shall be cancelable for cause upon thirty (30) days’ written notice. Should Lessee fail to manage, maintain, repair or operate the Demised Premises in a first class condition as required under this Lease, and such failure continues for thirty (30) days after notice from Lessor, then, unless Lessee shall have theretofore commenced to cure or remedy the default and continue to do so with due diligence, upon an additional 30 days notice to Lessee, Lessor shall have the right to resume management of the Demised Premises. In such event, the parties hereto will promptly enter into an amendment to this Lease nullifying the agreements set forth in this Amendment from and after the date Lessor resumes such management and restoring the provisions of the Lease which have been modified by this Amendment to the form that existed immediately prior to the Effective Date.”

(b) Care and Repair . Section 5(A) of the Lease shall be deleted and replaced with the following:

“(A) Care and Repair .

(i) Lessee covenants to commit no act of waste and to take good care of the Demised Premises and the fixtures and appurtenances therein, and shall redecorate, paint and renovate and maintain, replace and repair all aspects of the Demised Premises including, without limitation, the Building Systems, the grounds (including parking areas, landscaped areas and exterior lighting), and the roof membrane, all as may be necessary to keep the same in good working order, condition and appearance consistent with other first class single-tenant office buildings in the Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey area, and as necessary to avoid suspension of services to the Demised Premises or danger to life or property (but Lessee’s maintenance obligations above shall not include the Building Structure, which shall be maintained by Lessor as set forth below).

(ii) Lessee shall provide prompt notice to Lessor of any damage or defect in the Building Structure. Subject to Section 24 hereof, Lessor shall perform all repairs to and maintenance of the Building Structure unless such repairs or maintenance are made necessary due to the negligence of Lessee, its agents, employees, contractors or invitees, and are not covered by insurance, in which event Section 24 shall not apply thereto and Lessee shall pay or reimburse Lessor

 

2


for the entire cost thereof to the extent not covered by the insurance maintained or required to be maintained by Lessor pursuant to Section 33(A)(i) and (ii).

(iii) When used in this Section 5(A) and in Section 24, the term “repair” or “repairs” shall mean all ordinary and extraordinary repairs, replacements, and/or renewals, which shall be equal in quality and class to the original work.

(iv) Lessee shall, in the maintenance, repair and use and occupancy of the Demised Premises, comply with all present and future laws, orders and regulation of the federal, state and municipal governments or any of their departments affecting the Demised Premises, such obligations to include payment of any costs of compliance with laws resulting from Lessor’s recapture of any space pursuant to Section 9 hereof; this covenant to survive the expiration or sooner termination of this Lease. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Lease, Lessor shall be solely responsible to comply with laws applicable to the design of the existing system of detention and drainage and the discharge of storm water from the Office Building Area to any wetlands, brook or stream. Notwithstanding Lessor’s obligation, subject to Section 24 hereof, to repair and maintain the Building Structure, any repairs to the Building Structure required to be made by any laws enacted after the date of this Lease (“Future Laws”) shall be made by Lessor entirely at Lessee’s expense to the extent that such repairs are required (1) solely because of any work done by Lessee in the Demised Premises or (2) by Lessee’s specific use of the Demised Premises (as distinguished from use of the Demised Premises for general offices) and/or to the extent such repairs are necessary due to the negligence of Lessee, its agents, employees, contractors or invitees, and are not covered by the insurance maintained or required to be maintained by Lessor pursuant to Section 33(A)(i) and (ii). The cost of any repairs to the Demised Premises required to be made by any such Future Laws which are required due to the use of the Building as general offices shall, to the extent compliance is required because the conditions requiring compliance are not grandfathered, and to the extent permitted pursuant to this Lease, be included in Building Operating Costs and amortized as provided in Subsection 24(A).

(v) All improvements made by Lessee to the Demised Premises, which are so attached to the Demised Premises that they cannot be removed without material injury to the Demised Premises, shall become the property of Lessor upon installation. Not later than the last day of the Term, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s expense, remove all Lessee’s personal property, and those improvements made by Lessee which have not become the property of Lessor, including trade fixtures, movable paneling, and partitions; repair all injury done by or in connection with the installation or removal of said property and improvements and surrender the Demised Premises in as good condition as they were at the beginning of the Term, except where the damage was caused by Lessor or where repairs were required to be performed by Lessor, reasonable wear and tear and damage by fire, the elements, or casualty exempted. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee shall not

 

3


be required to remove any wiring or cabling or data equipment installed in connection with Lessee’s business. All other property of Lessee remaining on the Demised Premises after the last day of the Term of this Lease shall be conclusively deemed abandoned and may be removed by Lessor, and Lessee shall reimburse Lessor for the cost of such removal, and Lessor may have any such property stored at Lessee’s risk and expense.”

(c) Services . Section 22 of the Lease shall be deleted and replaced with the following:

“Lessee shall be responsible, at its sole cost and expense, for providing, with vendors reasonably acceptable to Lessor, the following services for the Demised Premises in a manner consistent with the standards for first class office buildings in the Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey area: cleaning and janitorial services 5 days per week excluding Building Holidays; elevator service and repairs; heating, ventilating and air conditioning services; water and sewer service; snow removal; landscaping; trash removal; security services, and all other services necessary to maintain the interior and exterior of the Building, parking and landscaped areas of the Demised-Premises in a condition and appearance consistent with the standards for first class office buildings in the Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey area.”

(d) Interruption of Services . Section 23 of the Lease shall be deleted and replaced with the following:

“Interruption or curtailment of any service maintained in the Building or at the Office Building Area shall not entitle Lessee to any claim against Lessor or to any abatement in Term Basic Rent or Additional Rent, and shall not constitute a constructive or partial eviction. In the event of any interruption or curtailment of service caused directly and solely by Lessor’s negligence or willful misconduct in the making of repairs, replacements or additions to the Building Structure, repairs or alterations with Lessee’s consent, or repairs necessitated by misuse or neglect by Lessee, or Lessee’s agents, contractors, servants, visitors or licensees which render the Demised Premises untenantable in whole or in part for a period of ten (10) consecutive business days, there shall be a proportionate abatement of Term Basic Rent and Additional Rent from and after said tenth (10 th ) consecutive business day after receipt of notice from Lessee of such interruption, and continuing for the period of such untenantability. In no event shall Lessee be entitled to claim a constructive eviction from the Demised Premises unless the interruption of service is caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of Lessor or its agents in making repairs as described above, Lessee shall first have notified Lessor in writing of the condition or conditions giving rise thereto, and, if the complaints be justified, unless Lessor shall have failed, within a reasonable time after receipt of such notice, to remedy, or commence and proceed with due diligence to remedy, such condition or conditions, all subject to Force Majeure, as

 

4


hereinafter defined. The remedies provided for in this Section 4 shall be Lessee’s sole remedies for any interruption of service or use as described above.”

(e) Exclusions to Building Operating Costs . Section 24(A) of the Lease shall be modified to provide that the following additional categories shall be excluded from “Building Operating Costs”: “costs of services, repair and maintenance to the Demised Premises which are paid directly to third parties by Lessee, property management fees and insurance premiums.”

(f) Reimbursement of Insurance Premiums . The following shall be added as Section 24(F) to the Lease:

“Lessee shall pay, as additional rent, one hundred percent of the premiums for all insurance Lessor obtains in connection with the Demised Premises. Such premiums shall be paid to Lessor within thirty (30) days of Lessor’s invoice for the same, accompanied by reasonable supporting documentation.”

(g) Base Building Operating Costs . Lessor shall reimburse Lessee for the annual base building operating costs in the amount not to exceed Seven Hundred Four Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety and 00/100 ($704,990.00) Dollars in twelve (12) equal monthly installments of Fifty Eight Thousand Seven Hundred Forty Nine and 17/100 ($58,749.17). The aforesaid installment of monthly base building operating costs shall be payable in advance on the first day of each calendar month during the Term via wire transfer pursuant to the wire instructions set forth below:

 

Bank:    JP Morgan Chase
Routing No.:    021000021
Account No.:    9102664449
Reference:   

1 Campus - Monthly refund of Base Year Operating Expenses

100-1590-65600

(c) The following shall be added to the Lease as Section 20.1:

20.1. Records and Reports .

(A) Records . Lessee shall maintain a comprehensive system of office records, correspondence, documents, books and accounts with correct entries of receipts and expenditures incident to the management of the Demised Premises and performance of the property management and care and maintenance responsibilities of Lessee under this Lease, all of which shall be the property of Lessor. Lessor and its representatives shall, at all times, have access to such records, books, and accounts and to all vouchers, files and all other materials pertaining to the Demised Premises, all of which Lessee agrees to keep safe, available, at the Demised Premises and separate from any records not relating to the Demised Premises. Lessee will

 

5


cooperate with and give reasonable assistance to any accountant or other person designated by-Lessor to examine such records.

(B) Monthly Accounting . On or before the fourteenth (14 th ) day of each month, Lessee shall deliver to Lessor, the following statements, prepared on a cash basis, for the preceding month: an itemized accounting of income and expense and a profit and loss statement showing the results of operations of the building for the preceding calendar month and for the year-to-date, with comparisons (for the month and year-to-date) to the approved budget set forth in the Annual Management Plan (as hereinafter defined).

(C) Quarterly Reports . Within fourteen (14) days after the end of each calendar quarter, Lessee shall deliver to Lessor, itemized income and expense and profit and loss statements showing all revenues, expenses and the results of operations for the year-to-date, and a year-to-date balance sheet of the development as of the end of such quarter, providing details of and explaining any positive or negative variances in excess of ten percent (10%) or Two Thousand Five Hundred and No/100 Dollars ($2,500.00), whichever is greater, from the annual budget in any revenue or expense category or capital expenditure category for the preceding quarter. In addition, if it is expected that any such positive or negative variance will continue or if a positive or negative variance of such magnitude in any revenue expense or capital expenditure line item is anticipated, details shall be provided and explained. The foregoing shall not be combined to waive Lessor’s approval rights with respect to variations or deviations from the Annual Management Plan as contemplated herein.

(D) Annual Reports . Within forty-five (45) days after the end of each calendar year, Lessee shall deliver to Lessor, itemized income and expense and profit and loss statements showing all revenues, expenses and the results of operations for the immediately preceding year, and a balance sheet of the development as of the end of such year.

(E) Annual Management Plan . On or before November 1 of each calendar year during the term, Lessee shall provide to Lessor for review and approval (which approval must be in writing, and as to non-structural items, shall not be unreasonably withheld), an annual management plan for the Leased Premises (“Annual Management Plan”). The Annual Management Plan shall include a proposed operating budget and a proposed capital budget for the Demised Premises. The Annual Management Plan shall set forth in detail by line item the estimated expenses of repairs, maintenance, replacements and operation of the Demised Premises, on a cash basis, for each month of the next calendar year, including labor, material and services. Lessee shall provide such other financial data reasonably requested by Lessor. Lessee shall not modify the Annual Management Plan without Lessor’s prior written consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Lessor reserves the right to reject, amend or modify the Annual Management Plan as Lessor may deem appropriate within sixty (60) days after receipt of it. If Lessor does not reject, amend or modify the Annual Management Plan within the sixty (60) day period, the Annual Management Plan shall be deemed approved by Lessor and shall be the operating budget for the year in which it applies (subject to later amendments made in writing by Lessor), but only after delivery to Lessor by Lessee of notice of the pending constructive approval of the Annual Management Plan and passage of ten (10) additional business days without rejection, amendment or modification of the proposed Annual

 

6


Management Plan by Lessor. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee may make changes to the Annual Management Plan in the ordinary course of business without Lessor’s consent so long as such changes do not exceed a cost of Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars and No/100 ($7,500.00) in the aggregate in any one calendar year, and provided that Lessor is promptly provided with a copy of the Annual Management Plan revised to show such changes. Lessee shall provide such other financial data and other information as may reasonably be requested by Lessor. Capital budgets submitted to Lessor are advisory only and all spending under capital budgets is discretionary with Lessor.

(F) Sharing of Information . Lessor will retain an accountant to look after the accounting of the company of Lessor. Lessee hereby agrees that it shall be obliged to provide such accounting firm as designated by Lessor from time to time with all the documents and information that such firm requests and needs in order to prepare and keep the company’s books according to normal accounting principles.”

(G) Other Reports . Lessee shall prepare any other information and reports Lessor may from time to time reasonably request in a form reasonably requested by Lessor, as well as general narrative of activity at the Demised Premises.

2. Effective on the date hereof, the Lease shall be modified as follows:

(a) Section 3(B) of the Lease is hereby amended to delete the language in the second to last line thereof “at the office of Lessor” and to replace the same with the following language: “via wire transfer pursuant to the wire instructions set forth below”. The following wire instructions shall be inserted at the end of said Section 3(B):

 

Bank:    Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas
Routing No.:    021001033
Account No.:    00-422-166
Reference:    DB R.E. One Campus Drive - Tenant
Contact:    Althea Lockley (212)602-1259

(b) The following shall be added to Section 20 of the Lease at the end of such Section:

“Not in limitation of, but in addition to the foregoing rights, Lessor shall have the right to enter the Premises by appointment on reasonable notice at any reasonable time for the purpose of performing comprehensive inspections of the Premises and building systems thereof at least once in any consecutive twelve (12) month period. Lessor hereby agrees to charge a flat fee of One Thousand Five Hundred and No/000 Dollars ($1,500) per year for such inspections, which shall constitute Building Operating Costs. Lessee agrees to make its representative available for such inspections with reasonable promptness. Lessee acknowledges that some interference to Lessee’s business may occur during such inspections, although Lessor will use reasonable efforts to minimize such interference.”

 

7


(c) The following shall be added as Section 4.1 to the Lease: “ Cooperation . Lessee shall promptly deliver to Lessor all notices received from any governmental or official entity or any other party with respect to the Demised Premises. Not in limitation of Lessee’s indemnity obligations under this Lease, Lessee shall give Lessor all pertinent information and reasonable assistance in the defense or disposition of any claims, demands, suits or other legal proceedings which may be made or instituted by any third party against Lessor which arise out of any matters relating to the Demised Premises.”

3. Entire Agreement . This Amendment contains and embodies the entire Amendment of the parties hereto, and no representations, inducements, or agreements, oral or otherwise, between the parties not contained in this Amendment shall be of any force or effect. This Amendment may not be modified, changed or terminated in whole or in part in any manner other than by an agreement in writing duly signed by both parties hereto.

4. Capitalized Terms . All capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Lease.

5. Binding Agreement . This Amendment shall not be valid and binding on Lessor and Lessee unless and until it has been completely executed by and delivered to both parties.

6. Counterparts . This Amendment may be executed in one (1) or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

7. Governing Law . This Amendment shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State of New Jersey.

8. Ratification by Guarantor . Guarantor joins in the execution of this Amendment to evidence its consent thereto, and ratifies and confirms its obligations to guaranty Lessee’s performance under the Lease as more particularly set forth in the Guaranty.

EXCEPT AS expressly amended and modified hereby, the Lease shall otherwise remain in full force and effect, the parties hereto hereby ratifying and confirming the same. To the extent of any inconsistency between the Lease and this Amendment, the terms of the Amendment shall prevail.

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 

8


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned parties have duly executed this Amendment as of the day and year first above written.

 

LESSOR:

 

DB REAL ESTATE ONE CAMPUS DRIVE, L.P., a New Jersey limited partnership

By:

 

/s/ Kurt G. Mayer

Print Name:

 

Kurt G. Mayer

Title:

 

Vice President

By:

 

/s/ Illegible

Print Name:

 

Illegible

Title:

 

President

LESSEE:

 

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.

a Delaware corporation

By:

 

/s/ Thomas F. Anderson

Print Name:

 

Thomas F. Anderson

Title:

 

Senior Vice President

RATIFIED AND ACCEPTED this 18th day of April, 2003

 

GUARANTOR:

 

CENDANT CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation

By:

 

/s/ Thomas F. Anderson

Name:

 

Thomas F. Anderson

Title:

 

Senior Vice President

 

9

Exhibit 10.14

OFFICE BUILDING LEASE

This Lease between MV Plaza, Inc. a California Corporation, (“Landlord”), and Cendant Corporation, a Delaware Corporation, (“Tenant”), is dated for reference purposes August 29, 2003.

1. LEASE OF PREMISES

In consideration of the rent (as defined at Section 5.3) and the provisions of this Lease, Landlord leases to Tenant and Tenant leases from Landlord the Premises shown by diagonal lines on the floor plan attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, and further described at Section 2.1. The Premises are located within the Building and Project described in Section 2.m. Tenant shall have the nonexclusive right (unless otherwise provided herein) in common with Landlord, other tenants, subtenants and invitees, to use of the Common Area (as defined at Section 2.e).

2. DEFINITIONS

As used in this Lease, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

 

a. Base Rent (initial):

   $2,423,032.80 per year calculated at $2.15 per sq. ft. per month Full Service Gross inclusive of estimated Base Year Operating expenses of $0.65 per sq.ft. per month.

b. Base year. The first twelve (12) calendar months after the Commencement Date. Within ninety (90) days following the one year anniversary of the Commencement Date, Landlord will calculate, subject to Section 5, (1) the actual Project Operating Costs attributable to the first consecutive twelve (12) months following the Commencement Date (“First Lease Year”) and (2) whether Tenant’s Proportionate Share, on a monthly basis, of the First Lease Year Project Operating Costs are greater than or less than the Estimated Base Year Operating Costs of $.65 psf/month. If the calculation in clause (2) results in Tenant’s Proportionate Share of actual First Lease Year Project Operating Costs being greater than or less than $.65 psf/month, then the Base Rent of $2.15 psf/month shall be recomputed by increasing or decreasing said $2.15 by the corresponding increase or decrease in Tenant’s Proportionate Share of actual First Lease Year Project Operating Costs and such recomputed number will thereafter be deemed the Base Rent. Further, the Estimated Base Year Costs of $.65 psf/month will be similarly recomputed and such recomputed figure will thereafter be deemed the Project Operating Costs for the Base Year for purposes of calculating comparative year to year increases in Project Operating Costs during the Lease term.

c. Broker(s)

 

Landlord’s:

   None

Tenant’s:

   Coldwell Banker Commercial Towne Centre

d. Commencement Date: Upon dose of escrow or August 29, 2003, whichever is later.

e. Common Areas: The building lobbies, common corridors and hallways, restrooms, garage and parking areas, stairways, elevators and other generally understood public or common areas. Landlord shall have the right to regulate or restrict the use of the Common Areas. Any work, repairs, modifications, installations or replacements that Landlord may be permitted to perform to the Building or the Premises or the common areas or parking area pursuant to the Lease shall be upon reasonable advance notice to Tenant and Landlord shall use best efforts to expedite the completion of any such work in a manner

 

1


intended to cause a minimum of inconvenience to Tenant and Tenant’s operations and any such work shall not interfere with Tenant’s use or enjoyment of the Premises or parking areas, reduce the square footage of the Premises, affect the configuration of the Premises, adversely affect Tenant’s floor plan or access to the Premises or the Building, reduce the number of parking spaces available to Tenant, adversely change the location or configuration of parking area curb cuts and roadways, adversely change the size, shape and extent of common areas, and, provided further, that any change by Landlord to the arrangement and/or location of entranceways or passageways and doorways, windows, elevators, stairs, toilets or other public parts of the Building shall not render access to the Premises or the Building less advantageous to Tenant than prior to the making of any said changes.

f. Expiration Date: The last day of the month in which the 10 year anniversary of the Commencement Date occurs, unless otherwise sooner terminated in accordance with the provisions of this Lease.

g. Landlord’s Mailing Address: 7 Corporate Plaza, Newport Beach, CA 92660

 

Tenant’s Mailing Address:

   c/o Cendant Corporation, 1 Campus Drive, Parsippany, NJ 07054
  

Attn: Legal with copy to the same address as above to

  

Attn: Vice President Corporate Real Estate

h. Monthly Installments of Base Rent (initial): $201,919.40 per month.

Rent Payments. Rent payments are due on the first of each month, made payable to MV Plaza, Inc. Please remit to: MV Plaza, Inc., 7 Corporate Plaza, Newport Beach, CA 92660.

LESSOR DOES NOT INVOICE ON A MONTHLY BASIS.

i. Security Deposit (Article 7): $-0-

j. Upon execution hereof Lessee shall pay Lessor: $-0-.

k. Parking: Tenant shall be permitted, upon payment of the then prevailing monthly rate (as sot by Landlord from time to time) free and in common for the term to park 4:1,000 in common cars on a nonexclusive basis in the area(s) designated by Landlord for parking. Tenant shall abide by any and all parking regulations and rules, (but at no charge imposed therefore and no decrease in number of spaces and no relocation of Spaces) established from time to time by Landlord or Landlord’s parking operator. Landlord reserves the right to separately charge Tenant’s guests and visitors for parking. NO OVERNIGHT PARKING SHALL BE ALLOWED; AT LESSOR’S DISCRETION, VIOLATORS MAY BE TOWED AT VEHICLE OWNER’S EXPENSE. Tenant JS entitled to reserved spaces at the back of the North building numbers 1-15 and spaces at the back of the South building 16,17,18,19, 20, 21 and 22. Landlord may elect, from time to time, to allocate reserved parking spaces in the underground garage to other tenants in the building to which the garage is an amenity provided Tenant will also be allocated its proportionate share on a square footage basis that the Premises bears to the Property and, provided further, that any such allocation by Landlord shall not serve to decrease the Tenant’s parking ratio below 4:1000.

l. Premises: That portion of the North Building containing approximately 72,509 square feet of Rentable Area, shown by diagonal lines on Exhibits “A”, “A-1”, “A-2” and “A-3” located on the 1 st , 2 nd , 3 rd floors and Basement of the Building and known as Suite and that portion of the South Building containing approximately 21,407 square feet of Rentable Area, shown by diagonal lines on Exhibits “B”, and “B-1” located on the 3 rd floor and Basement of the Building. Final square footage to be verified per DOMA standard by Architect at Landlord’s cost prior to the Commencement Date, and if a dicoropaney is found, the rent shall be adjusted accordingly.

 

2


m. Project: The building of which the Premises are a part (the “Building”) and any other buildings or improvements on the real property (the “Property”) located at 27261 and 27271 Las Ramblas, Mission Viejo, CA and further described on Exhibit “A”.

n. Rentable Area: As to both the Premises and the Project, the respective measurements of floor area as may from time to time be subject to lease by Tenant and all tenants of the Project, respectively, as determined by Landlord and applied on a consistent basis throughout the Project. In no event will Rentable area of Premises increase unless Tenant actually takes more space.

o. state: The State of California.

p. Tenant’s Proportionate Share: 71.62%. Such share is a fraction, the numerator of which is the Rentable Area of the Premises, and the denominator of which is the Rentable Area of the Project, as reasonably determined by Landlord from time to time. The Project consists of two (2) buildings containing a total Rentable Area of 131,123 square feet. In no event shall Tenant’s Proportionate Share be increased unless Tenant actually occupies more space in the Premises per an amendment to this Lease. Note: Tenant is 100% responsible for any expenses specifically attributed to the space that they occupy, i.e. electricity for their space, upgraded janitorial, if they request, etc.

q. Tenant’s Use clause (Article 8): General office and any other I awful use as approved by the Landlord (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed).

r. Term: The period commencing on the Commencement Date and expiring at midnight on the Expiration Date.

3. EXHIBITS AND ADDENDA

See Addenda: A, B, C, and Exhibits A, A-1, A-2, A-3, B, B-1 and C attached hereto and made a part hereof by reference.

4. DELIVERY OF POSSESSION

If for any reason Landlord does not deliver possession of the Premises to Tenant on the Commencement Date, Landlord shall not be subjected to any liability for such failure, the Expiration Date shall not charge and the validity of this Lease shall not be impaired, but Rent shall be abated until delivery of possession. If Landlord permits Tenant to enter into possession of the Premises before the Commencement Date, such possession shall be the provision of this Lease, including, without limitation, the payment of Rent.

5. RENT

5.1. Payment of Base Rent. Tenant agrees to pay the Base Rent for the Premises. Monthly Installments of Base Rent shall be payable in advance on the first day of each calendar month of the Term. If the Term begins (or ends) on other than the first (or last) day of a calendar month, the Base Rent for the partial month shall be prorated on a per diem basis. Tenant shall pay Landlord the first Monthly Installment of Base Rent when Tenant executes the Lease.

5.2. Project Operating Costs

a. In order that the Rent payable during the Term reflect any increase in Project Operating Costs, Tenant agrees to pay to Landlord as Rent, Tenant’s Proportionate Share of all increases in costs, expenses and obligations attributable to the Project and its operation, all as provided below.

b. If, during any calendar year during the Term, Project Operating Costs exceed the Project Operating Costs for the Base Year, Tenant shall pay to Landlord, in addition to the Base Rent and all other payments due under this Lease, an amount equal to Tenant’s Proportionate Share of such excess Project Operating Costs in accordance with the provisions of this Section 5.2b.

(1) The term “Project Operating Costs” shall include all those items described in the following subparagraphs (a) and (b).

(a) All taxes, assessments, water and sewer charges and other similar governmental charges levied on or attributable to the Building or Project or their operation, including without limitation, (i) real property taxes or assessments levied or

 

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assessed against the Building or Project, (ii) assessments or charges levied or assessed against the Building or Project by any redevelopment agency, (iii) any tax measured by gross rentals received from the leasing of the Premises, Building or Project, excluding any net income, franchise, capital stock, estate or inheritance taxes imposed by the State or Federal government or their agencies, branches or departments and also excluding: increases in assessed value of the Building or land due to a sale of all or any portion except for the 2003 sale from Cendant to MV Plaza, Inc; the creation of a net lease; any mortgaging or refinancing of the Building or the land (except for a foreclosure by the mortgage holder); improvements for occupants of the Building or the land other than Cendant and its subsidiaries; land held for future development; increases in rentable area of the Building; additions to the land; and capital improvements to the Building or the land unless specifically requested by Tenant, shall also be excluded from real estate taxes. Real estate taxes shall also not include any penalties or late fees or interest. Any increases in real estate taxes caused by the Work or the sale or transfer of the Building shall be excluded from the definition of real estate taxes except as stated in this paragraph. If, by virtue of any application or proceeding brought by or on behalf of Landlord, there shall be reduction of the assessed valuation of the land and/or Building for any fiscal year which affects the real estate taxes, or part thereof, for which Additional Rent has been paid by Tenant, such additional rent payment shall be recomputed on the basis of any such reduction and Landlord will refund Tenant any sums paid by Tenant in excess of the recomputed amounts. Such refund will be made within thirty (30) days after receipt by Landlord of the tax refund. This provision shall survive Lease expiration or termination; provided that if at any time during the Term any governmental entity levies, assesses or imposes on Landlord any (1) general or special, ad valorem or specific, excise, capital levy or other tax, assessment, levy or charge directly on the Rent received under this Lease or on the rent received under any other leases of space in the Building or Project, or (2) any license fee, excise or franchise tax, assessment, levy or charge measured by or based, in whole or in part, upon such rent, or (3) any transfer, transaction, or similar tax, assessment, levy or charge based directly or indirectly upon the transaction represented by this Lease or such other leases, or (4) any occupancy, use, per capita or other tax, assessment, levy or charge based directly or indirectly upon the use or occupancy of the Premises or other premises within the Building or Project, then any such taxes, assessments, levies and charges shall be deemed to be included in the term Project Operating Costs. If at any time during the Term, including the base year, the assessed valuation of, or taxes on, the Project are not based on a completed Project having at least ninety-five percent (95%) of the Rentable Area occupied, then the “taxes” component of Project Operating Costs shall be adjusted by Landlord to reasonably approximate the taxes which would have been payable if the Project were completed and at least ninety-five percent (95%) occupied.

(b) Reasonable and actual Operating costs incurred by Landlord in maintaining and operating the Building and Project, including without limitation the following: costs of (1) utilities; (2) supplies; (3) insurance (including public liability, property damage, earthquake, and fire and extended coverage insurance for the full replacement cost of the Building and Project as required by Landlord or its lenders for the Project); (4) services of independent contractors; (5) compensation (including employment taxes and fringe benefits) of all persons who perform duties connected with the operation, maintenance, repair or overhaul of the Building or Project, and equipment, improvements and facilities located within the Project, including without limitation engineers, janitors, painters, floor waxers, window washers, security and parking personnel and gardeners (but excluding persons performing services not uniformly available to or performed for substantially all Building or Project tenants); (6) operation and maintenance of a room for delivery and distribution of mail to tenants of the Building or Project as required by the U.S. Postal Service (including, without limitation, an amount equal to the fair market rental value of the mail room premises); (7) management of the Building or Project, whether managed by Landlord or an independent contractor (including, without limitation, an amount equal to the fair market value of any on-site manager’s office); (8) rental expenses for (or a reasonable depreciation allowance on) personal property used in the maintenance, operation or repair of the Building or Project; (9) any other costs or expenses incurred by Landlord under this Lease and not otherwise reimbursed by tenants of the Project. If at any time during the Term(including the Base Year), less than ninety-five percent (95%) of the Rentable Area of the Project is occupied, the “operating costs” component of Project Operating Costs shall be adjusted by Landlord to reasonably approximate the operating costs which would have been incurred if the Project had been at least ninety-five percent (95%) occupied. Any expenditures required to be capitalized for federal income tax purposes shall be excluded from Building and Project Operating Costs unless (1) said expenditures are for the purpose of reducing Operating Costs. (2) said expenditures are required under any laws other than those in effect as of the Commencement Date, in either of which events the cost thereof shall be included and

 

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amortized on a straight line basis over the useful life as determined by standard accounting practices for comparable office buildings in Orange County, California, and the annualized installment as hereinabove determined together with interest equal to the Prime Rate plus one percent (1%) per annum, payable from the date of installation through the date of repayment of said installment, shall be included as a Project Operating Cost. For example, if a governmental law (other than a law in effect as of the Commencement Date) causes Landlord to incur a capital expenditure of Five Hundred Thousand and 00/100 ($500,000.00) Dollars during the fourth (4 th ) Lease Year of the Term, for a capital improvement having a useful life of ten (10) years and if the prime rate is nine percent (9%) and, thus, the interest rate in this example would be ten percent (10%) per annum, then, for each of the remaining years of the Term of this Lease, the sum of Eighty-One Thousand Three Hundred Seventy-Two and 70/100 ($81,372.70) Dollars (which includes interest at ten percent (10%) per annum) shall be included as a Project Operating Cost for each of the remaining years of the Term. If the Lease is renewed, such sum would continue to be included as a Project Operating Cost during each year of the renewal term until such sum is fully amortized. In this example, an amortization period of ten (10) years was used due to the fact that the useful life of the improvement was ten (10) years; Operating Expenses shall also specifically exclude or have deducted from them the following items: (i) the cost of (a) any items for which Landlord is reimbursed by insurance, condemnation or otherwise, and (b) repairs or maintenance which are covered by warranties, guaranties or service contracts; (ii) financing or refinancing costs, interest on debt or amortization payments on any mortgage, rental or other charges under any ground or underlying lease, any bad debt loss, rent loss or reserves for bad debts or rent loss; (iii) advertising and promotional expenditures and brokerage commissions for leases, sales or mortgages or other like expenses (including, without limitation, architectural, space planning or engineering services) incurred in leasing or procuring tenants; (iv) legal and auditing fees, other than reasonable legal and auditing fees necessarily incurred in connection with the normal maintenance and operation of the Building (but excluding fees for sales, (re)financings, new leases, renewals and, disputes with tenants) or in connection with the preparation of statements required pursuant to escalation provisions of this Lease; (v) managing agents’ fees in excess of the prevailing rates in the county in which the Building is located for Building management for Buildings of like class and character; (vi) the wages of any employee who does not devote substantially all of his or her time to the Building except that an employee can have the portion of their time that is spent on the property included as part of Operating Expenses; (vii) fines, penalties and interest; (viii) costs for (a) any repairs, alterations, additions, charges, replacements and other items which are made in order to prepare for occupancy by a tenant, or (b) any work or service performed for any tenant (including Tenant) at such tenant’s expense, or (c) performing any work or furnishing services, including electric current, to or for any tenant, which is materially in excess of the work or services provided generally to tenants of the Building without additional charge; (ix) executive salaries above the grade of Building manager including, without limitation, executive managers, accountants, bookkeepers, receptionists, clerks, marketing representatives, administrative assistants, secretaries and brokers and Landlord’s home office overhead; (x) costs of (a) any works of art, or (b) additions to the Building subsequent to the date of original construction, or (c) correcting defects in or inadequacy of design or construction of the Building, or (d) initial painting or decorating of any part of the Building; (xi) the costs of any repairs, alterations, additions, changes, replacements and other items which

 

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are (a) capital expenditures or capital improvements, except that the cost of these improvements can be amortized over their useful life and that portion included in Operating Expenses if said improvement directly benefits Tenant; (xii) depreciation of the Building or amortization of the Building in the event the Building is ground leased; (xiii) fees and expenses paid to affiliates of Landlord or any entity controlled by a person related to Landlord in excess of commercially reasonable and customary amounts; (xiv) dues to professional and lobbying organizations; (xv) expenses (e.g., costs of any judgment, settlement or arbitration award) relating to or resulting from the negligence or willful misconduct of Landlord, its agents or employees; (xvi) costs associated with the operation of the business of the partnership, corporation or owning entity and the cost of defending any lawsuits with any mortgagee (except as, and to the extent, the actions of Tenant may be an issue); (xvii) any funds or money given to other tenants in connection with the leasing of space in the Building; (xviii) costs of repairs or replacements incurred by reason of fire or other casualty or condemnation, except to the extent that the cost thereof is less than the “deductible” in force under Landlord’s insurance policy to the extent such, deductible is not in excess of that generally in force in other office Buildings similar to the Building and located in the county in which the Building is situated; (xix) any profits received by Landlord on account of computations where the aggregate of the proportionate shares for all tenants in the Building equals a number greater than 100; (xx) costs for services, which costs are materially in excess of costs for services provided for tenants in office Building similar to the Building and located in the county in which the Building is situated; (xxi) any compensation paid to clerks, attendants or other persons in commercial concessions operated by Landlord; (xxii) the cost of installing, operating, maintaining, and insuring any specialty facility, such as an observatory, broadcasting facilities, luncheon club, athletic or recreational club, cafeteria or dining facility; (xxiii) expenses allocable to any retail space of the Building; (xxiv) additional rent or other charge under any lease (including any superior or ground lease) or sublease to, or assumed directly or indirectly by, Landlord; (xxv) transfer of taxes, gains taxes and similar costs incurred by Landlord; (xxvi) cost of electricity consumed in any area of the Building rented or available for rent to the extent such costs would not have been included had such space been occupied by another tenant (xxvii) costs that would duplicate costs theretofore included in Operating Expenses; (xxviii) arbitration expenses unrelated to the maintenance, operating and security of the Building and any other arbitration expenses incurred in connection with leases of space in the Building or with default or eviction proceedings against tenants or relating in any other way to tenant disputes; (xxvix) unless caused solely by Tenant after the Commencement Date, costs relating to, or in connection with, the removal containment, encapsulation, disposal, repair, monitoring, testing, venting, clean-up, remediation, or compliance with laws pertaining to (i) asbestos; or (ii) any hazardous, toxic or regulated substance or gas; (xxx) any extraordinary item of Operating Expense arising or incurred during the Lease term; (xxxi) any funds or money given to charities. Before computing Tenant’s proportionate share of Operating Expense Increases Landlord shall be required to deduct any and all revenue derived from the operation of all common areas (i.e., parking fees, license fees).

(c) Landlord and Tenant are aware that certain capital improvements are possibly needing to be completed as of the Commencement Date. These items shall be completed as necessary and the actual cost amortized as more particularly described in Exhibit “C”.

 

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(2) Tenant’s Proportionate Share of Project Operating Costs shall be payable by Tenant to Landlord as follows:

(a) Beginning with the calendar year following the Base Year (first year of the Term) and for each calendar year thereafter (“Comparison Year”), Tenant shall pay Landlord an amount equal to Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the Project Operating Costs incurred by Landlord in the Comparison Year which exceeds the total amount of Project Operating Costs payable by Landlord for the Base Year. This excess is referred to as the “Excess Expenses”.

(b) To provide for current payments of Excess Expenses, Tenant shall, at Landlord’s request, pay as additional rent during each Comparison Year, an amount equal to Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the Excess Expenses payable during such Comparison Year, as reasonably estimated by Landlord from time to time. Such payments shall be made in monthly installments, commencing on the first day of the month following the month in which Landlord notifies Tenant of the amount it is to pay hereunder and continuing until the first day of the month following the month in which Landlord gives Tenant a new notice of estimated Excess Expenses. It is the intention hereunder to estimate from time to time the amount of the Excess Expenses for each Comparison Year and Tenant’s Proportionate Share thereof, and then to make an adjustment in the following year based on the actual Excess Expenses incurred for that Comparison Year.

(c) On or before April 1 of each Comparison Year after the first Comparison Year (or as soon thereafter as is practical), Landlord shall deliver to Tenant a statement setting forth Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the Excess Expenses for the preceding Comparison Year (which statement shall be accompanied by supporting documentation). If Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the actual Excess Expenses for the previous Comparison Year exceeds the total of the estimated monthly payments made by Tenant for such year, Tenant shall pay Landlord the amount of the deficiency within ten (10) thirty (30) days of the receipt of the statement. If such total exceeds Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the actual Excess Expenses for such Comparison Year, then Landlord shall credit against Tenant’s next ensuing monthly installment(s) of additional rent an amount equal to the difference until the credit is exhausted. If a credit is due from Landlord on the Expiration Date, Landlord shall promptly pay Tenant the amount of the credit. The obligations of Tenant and Landlord to make payments required under this Section 5.2 shall survive the Expiration Date.

(d) Tenant’s Proportionate Share of Excess Expenses in any Comparison Year having less than 365 days shall be appropriately prorated.

(e) If any dispute arises as to the amount of any additional rent due hereunder, Tenant shall have the right after reasonable notice and at reasonable times to inspect Landlord’s accounting records at Landlord’s accounting office and, if after such inspection Tenant still disputes the amount of additional rent owed, a certification as to the proper amount shall be made by Landlord’s certified public accountant, which certification shall be final and conclusive. Tenant agrees to pay the cost of such certification unless it is determined that Landlord’s original statement overstated Project Operating Costs by more than five percent (5%) three percent (3%) in which case Landlord shall reimburse Tenant for the cost of the audit and certification. If the dispute reveals an overpayment by Tenant, Landlord shall promptly pay Tenant the amount of the overpayment together with interest at Prime Rate from date paid by Tenant.

5.3. Definition of Rent. All costs and expenses which Tenant assumes or agrees to pay Landlord under this Lease shall be deemed additional rent (which, together with the Base Rent is sometimes referred to as the “Rent”). The Rent shall be paid to the Building manager (or other person) and at such place, as Landlord may from time to time designate in writing, without any prior demand therefor and without deduction or offset, except as provided by this Lease, in lawful money of the United States of America.

5.4 Rent Control. If the amount of Rent or any other payment due under this Lease violates the terms of any governmental restrictions on such Rent or payment, then the Rent or payment due during the period of such restrictions shall be the maximum amount allowable under those restrictions. Upon termination of the restrictions, Landlord shall, to the extent it is legally permitted, recover from Tenant the difference between the amounts received during the period of the restrictions and the amounts Landlord would have received had there been no restrictions.

5.5 Taxes Payable by Tenant. Subject to the exclusions in section 5.2 of this lease, in addition to the Rent and any other charges to be paid by Tenant hereunder, Tenant shall reimburse Landlord upon demand for any and all taxes payable by Landlord (other than net income taxes) which are not otherwise reimbursable under this Lease, whether or not now customary or within the contemplation of the parties, where such taxes are upon, measured by or reasonably attributable to (a) the cost or value of Tenant’s equipment, furniture, fixtures and other personal property located in the Premises, or the cost or value of any leasehold improvements made in or to the Premises by or for Tenant, other than Building Standard Work made by Landlord, regardless of whether title to such improvements is held by Tenant or Landlord; (b) the gross or net Rent payable under this Lease, including, without limitation, any rental or gross receipts tax levied by any taxing

 

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authority with respect to the receipt of the Rent hereunder; (c) the possession, leasing, operation, management, maintenance, alteration, repair, use or occupancy by Tenant of the Premises or any portion thereof; or (d) this transaction or any document to which Tenant is a party creating or transferring an interest or an estate in the Premises. If it becomes unlawful for Tenant to reimburse Landlord for any costs as required under this Lease, the Base Rent shall be revised to net Landlord the same net Rent after imposition of any tax or other charge upon Landlord as would have been payable to Landlord but for the reimbursement being unlawful.

6. INTEREST AND LATE CHARGES

If Tenant fails to pay when due any Rent or other amounts or charges which Tenant is obligated to pay under the terms of this Lease, the unpaid amounts shall bear interest at the maximum rate then allowed by law. Tenant acknowledges that the late payment of any Monthly Installment of Base Rent will cause Landlord to lose the use of that money and incur costs and expenses not contemplated under this Lease, including without limitation, administrative and collection costs and processing and accounting expenses, the exact amount of which is extremely difficult to ascertain. Therefore, in addition to interest, if any such installment is not received by Landlord within ten (10) days from the date it is due, Tenant shall pay Landlord a late charge equal to ten percent (10%) five percent (5%) of such installment. Landlord will commence imposition of the Late Charge if Tenant has failed to timely pay Rent on two (2) occasions during the term of the Lease, even if the two (2) occasions were not consecutive months. Landlord and Tenant agree that this late charge represents a reasonable estimate of such costs and expenses and is fair compensation to Landlord for the loss suffered from such nonpayment by Tenant. Acceptance of any interest or late charge shall not constitute a waiver of Tenant’s default with respect to such nonpayment by Tenant nor prevent Landlord from exercising any other rights or remedies available to Landlord under this Lease.

7. SECURITY DEPOSIT

Tenant agrees to deposit with Landlord the Security Deposit set forth at Article 2.i upon execution of this Lease, as security for Tenant’s faithful performance of its obligations under this Lease. Landlord and Tenant agree that the Security Deposit may be commingled with funds of Landlord and Landlord shall have no obligation or liability for payment of interest on such Deposit. Tenant shall not mortgage, assign, transfer or encumber the Security Deposit without the prior written consent of Landlord and any attempt by Tenant to do so shall be void, without force or effect and shall not be binding upon Landlord. If Tenant fails to pay any Rent or other amount when due and payable under this Lease, or fails to perform any of the terms hereof, Landlord may appropriate and apply or use all or any portion of the Security Deposit for rent payments or any other amount then due and unpaid, for payment of any amount for which Landlord has become obligated as a result of Tenant’s default or breach, and for any loss or damage sustained by Landlord as a result of Tenant’s default or breach and Landlord may so apply or use this deposit without prejudice to any other remedy Landlord may have by reason of Tenant’s default or breach. If Landlord so uses any of the Security Deposit, Tenant shall , within ten (10) days after written demand therefor, restore the Security Deposit to the full amount originally deposited; Tenant’s failure to do so shall constitute an act of default hereunder and Landlord shall have the right to exercise any remedy provided for at Article 27 hereof. Within fifteen(15) days after the Term (or any extension thereof ) has expired or Tenant has vacated the Promises, whichever shall last occur, and provided Tenant is not then in default on any of its obligations hereunder, landlord shall return the Security Deposit to Tenant, or , if Tenant has assigned its interest under this Lease, to the last assignee of Tenant. If Landlord sells its interest in the Premises, Landlord may deliver this deposit to the purchaser of Landlord’s interest and thereupon be relieved of any further liability or obligation with respect to the security Deposit. Note: Security Deposit shall not be applied toward the last month’s rent.

8. TENANT’S USE OF THE PREMISES

Tenant shall use the Premises solely for the purposes set forth in Tenant’s Use Clause. Tenant shall not use or occupy the Premises in violation of law or any covenant, condition, or restriction affecting the Building or Project or the certificate of occupancy issued for the Building or Project, and shall, upon notice from Landlord, immediately discontinue any use of the Premises which is declared by any governmental authority having jurisdiction to be a violation of law or the certificate of occupancy. Tenant shall not do or permit to be done anything which will invalidate or increase the cost of any fire, extended coverage or other insurance policy covering the Building or Project and/or property located therein, and shall comply with all rules, orders, regulations, requirements and recommendations of the Insurance Services Office or any other organization performing a similar function. Tenant shall promptly upon demand reimburse Landlord for any additional premium charged for such policy by reason of Tenant’s failure to comply with the provisions of this Article. Tenant shall not do or permit anything to be done in or about the Premises which will in any way obstruct or interfere with the rights of other tenants or occupants of the Building or Project, or injure or unreasonably annoy them, or use or allow the Premises to be used for any improper, immoral, or unlawful or objectionable purpose, nor shall Tenant cause, maintain or permit any nuisance in, on or about the Premises. Tenant shall not commit or suffer to be committed” any waste in or upon the Premises.

 

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9. SERVICES AND UTILITIES

Provided that Tenant is not in material monetary default hereunder, Landlord agrees to furnish to the Premises during generally recognized business days, and during hours determined by Landlord 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday in its sole discretion, and subject to the Rules and Regulations of the Building or Project, electricity for normal desk top office equipment and normal copying equipment equipment consistent With Tenant’s current use of the Premises, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (“HVAC”) as required in Landlord’s judgment for the comfortable use and occupancy of the Premises. Landlord shall maintain adequate HVAC in Premises at or around 74 degrees Fahrenheit in summer and at around 68 degrees Fahrenheit in winter for standard Office use. If Tenant desires HVAC at any other time, Landlord shall use reasonable efforts to furnish such service upon reasonable notice from Tenant and Tenant shall pay Landlord’s charges therefor on demand following rendition of an invoice, but not to exceed $50.00 per hour per floor in the multi-tenant (South) building. In the single tenant (North) building, any after hours electricity and HVAC cost incurred as a result of Tenant’s after hours use shall be billed at Landlord’s actual cost to the Tenant in the form of excess operating expenses for that building. Landlord shall also maintain and keep lighted the common stairs, common entries and restrooms in the Building. Landlord shall not be in default hereunder or be liable for any damages directly or indirectly resulting from, nor shall the Rent be abated by reason of (i) the installation, use or interruption of use of any equipment in connection with the furnishing of any of the foregoing services, (ii) failure to furnish or delay in furnishing any such services where such failure or delay is caused by accident or any condition or event beyond the reasonable control of Landlord, or by the making of necessary repairs or improvements to the Premises, Building or Project, or (iii) the limitation, curtailment or rationing of, or restrictions on, use of water, electricity, gas or any other form of energy serving the Premises, Building or Project. Landlord shall not be liable under any circumstances for a loss of or injury to property or business, however occurring, through or in connection with or incidental to failure to furnish any such services. If Tenant uses heat generating machines or equipment in the Premises which affect the temperature otherwise maintained by the HVAC system, Landlord reserves the right to install supplementary air conditioning units in the Premises and the cost thereof, including the cost of installation, operation and maintenance thereof, shall be paid by Tenant to Landlord upon demand by Landlord.

If Landlord shall fail adequately to provide any service (including, without limitation, heat, ventilation, cooling, electric running water and supplies in washrooms, access to and egress from the Premises, and heat, lighting and janitorial service to the Premises and common areas), make any repair or otherwise breach any of its obligations under this Lease, then, without waiving any rights or remedies available to Tenant at law or equity, Tenant may upon ten (10) days’ notice to Landlord remediate such remedy or breach, including without limitation, paying outstanding real estate taxes and utilities on the Building, and deduct the reasonable and necessary costs thereof from rent and additional rent payable by Tenant hereunder.

Tenant shall not, without the written consent of Landlord, not to be unreasonably withheld, use any apparatus or device in the Premises, including without limitation, electronic data processing machines, punch card machines or machines using in excess of 120 volts, which consumes more electricity than is usually furnished or supplied for the use of premises as general office space, as reasonably determined by Landlord. Tenant shall not connect any apparatus with electric current except through existing electrical outlets in the Premises. Tenant shall not consume water or electric current in excess of that usually furnished or supplied for the use of premises as general office space (as reasonably determined by Landlord), without first procuring the written consent of Landlord, which Landlord may refuse, and in the event of consent, Landlord may have installed a water meter or electrical current meter in the Premises to measure the amount of water or electrical current consumed. The cost of any such meter and of its installation, maintenance and repair shall be paid for by the Tenant and Tenant agrees to pay to Landlord promptly upon demand for all such water and electric current consumed as shown by said meters, at the rates charged for such services by the local public utility plus any additional actual expense incurred in keeping account of the water and electric current so consumed. If a separate meter is not installed, the excess cost for such water and electric current shall be established by an estimate made by a utility company or electrical engineer hired by Landlord at Tenant’s expense.

 

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Nothing contained in this Article shall restrict Landlord’s right to require at any time separate metering of utilities furnished to the Premises. In the event utilities are separately metered, Tenant shall pay promptly upon demand for all utilities consumed at utility rates charged by the local public utility plus any additional actual expense incurred by Landlord in keeping account of the utilities so consumed. Tenant shall be responsible for the maintenance and repair of any such meters at its sole cost.

Landlord shall furnish elevator service, lighting replacement for building standard lights, restroom supplies, window washing and janitor services in a manner that such services are customarily furnished to comparable office buildings in the area. Janitorial services shall be contracted for pursuant to specifications acceptable to Tenant.

10. CONDITION OF THE PREMISES

Tenant’s taking possession of the Premises shall be deemed conclusive evidence that as of the date of taking possession the Premises are in good order and satisfactory condition, except for such matters as to which Tenant gave Landlord notice on or before the Commencement Date. No promise of Landlord to alter, remodel, repair or improve the Premises, the Building or the Project and no representation, express or implied, respecting any matter or thing relating to the Premises, Building, Project or this Lease (including, without limitation, the condition of the Premises, the Building or the Project) have been made to Tenant by Landlord or its Broker or Sales Agent, other than as may be contained herein or in a separate exhibit or addendum signed by Landlord and Tenant.

11. CONSTRUCTION, REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE

a. Landlord’s Obligations. Landlord shall maintain in good order, condition and repair the Building and all other portions of the Premises not the obligation of Tenant or of any other tenant in the Building.

b. Tenant’s Obligations

(1) Tenant at Tenant’s sole expense shall, except for services furnished by Landlord pursuant to Article 9 hereof, maintain the Premises in good such order, condition and repair as existing on Commencement date , including the interior surfaces of the ceilings, walls and floors, all doors, all interior windows, all plumbing exclusively Serving the Premises, pipes and fixtures exclusively serving the Premises, electrical wiring exclusively serving the Premises, switches and fixtures, Building Standard furnishings and special items and equipment installed by or at the expense of Tenant.

(2) Tenant shall be responsible for all repairs and alterations in and to the Premises, Building and Project and the facilities systems thereof exclusively serving the Premises, the need for which arises out of (i) Tenant’s use or occupancy of the Premises, (ii) the installation, removal, use or operation of Tenant’s Property (as defined in Article 13) in the Premises, (iii) the moving of Tenant’s Property into or out of the Building, or (iv) Subject to Section 23, the act, omission, misuse or negligence of Tenant, its agents, contractors, employees or invitees.

c. Compliance with Law. Landlord and Tenant shall each do all acts required to comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, and rules of any public authority relating to their respective maintenance obligations as set forth herein.

d. Waiver by Tenant. Tenant expressly waives the benefits of any statute now or hereafter in effect which would otherwise afford the Tenant the right to terminate this Lease because of Landlord’s failure to keep the Premises in good order, condition and repair.

e. Load and Equipment Limits. Tenant shall not place a load upon any floor of the Premises which exceeds the load per square foot which such floor was designed to carry. , as determined by Landlord or Landlord’s structural engineer. The cost of any such determination made by Landlord’s structural engineer at Tenant’s request shall be paid for by Tenant upon demand. Tenant shall not install business machines or mechanical equipment which cause noise or vibration to such a degree as to be reasonably objectionable to Landlord or other Building tenants.

f. Except as otherwise expressly provided in this. Lease, Landlord shall have no liability to Tenant nor shall Tenant’s obligations under this Lease be reduced or abated in any manner whatsoever by reason of any inconvenience, annoyance, interruption or injury to business arising from Landlord’s making any repairs or changes which Landlord is required or

 

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permitted by this Lease or by any other tenant’s lease or required by law to make in or to any portion of the Project, Building or the premises. Landlord shall nevertheless use reasonable efforts to minimize any interference with Tenant’s business in the Premises.

g. Tenant shall give Landlord prompt notice of any damage to or defective condition in any part or appurtenance of the Building’s mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC or other systems serving, located in, or passing through the Premises.

12. ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS

a. Tenant may shall not make any additions, alterations or improvements costing in excess of $20,000.00 per individual alteration to the Premises without obtaining the prior written consent of Landlord not to be unreasonably withheld. Landlord’s consent may be conditioned on Tenant’s removing any such additions, alterations or improvements upon the expiration of the Term and restoring the Premises to the same condition as on the date Tenant took possession. All work with respect to any addition, alteration or improvement shall be done in a good and workmanlike manner by properly qualified and licensed personnel reasonably approved by Landlord, and such work shall be diligently prosecuted to completion. Landlord may, at Landlord’s option, require that any such work be performed by Landlord’s contractor, in which case the cost of such work shall be paid for before commencement of the work. Landlord preapproves Tenant performing the fit-out work to the North building space as depicted on the space plan attached as Exhibit D and Tenant shall not be obligated at the end of the term to restore the Premises to their original condition prior to the completion of such work.

b. Tenant shall pay the costs of any work done on the Premises pursuant to Section 12a, and shall keep the Premises, Building and Project free and clear of liens of any kind. Tenant shall indemnify, defend against and keep Landlord free and harmless from all liability, loss, damage, costs, attorneys’ fees and any other expense incurred on account of claims by any person performing work or furnishing materials or supplies for Tenant or any person claiming under Tenant.

Tenant shall keep Tenant’s leasehold interest, and any additions or improvements which are or become the property of Landlord under this Lease, free and clear of all attachment or judgment liens. Before the actual commencement of any work for which a claim or lien may by filed. Tenant shall give Landlord notice of the intended commencement date a sufficient time before that date to enable Landlord to post notices of non-responsibility or any other notices which Landlord deems necessary for the proper protection of Landlord’s interest in the Premises, Building or the Project, and Landlord shall have the right to enter the Premises and post such notices at any reasonable time.

c. Landlord may require, at Landlord’s sole option, that Tenant provide to Landlord, at Tenant’s expense, a lien and completion bond in an amount equal to a least one and one half (1  1 / 2 ) times the total estimated cost of any additions, alterations or improvements to be made in or to the Premises, to protect Landlord against any liability for mechanic’s and materialmen’s liens and to insure timely completion of the work. Nothing contained in this Section 12c shall relieve Tenant of its obligation under Section 12b to keep the Premises, Building and Project free of all liens.

d. Unless their removal is required by Landlord as provided in Section 12a, all additions, alterations and improvements made to the Premises shall become the property of Landlord and be surrendered with the Premises upon the expiration of the Term; provided, however, Tenant’s equipment, machinery and trade fixtures which can be removed without damage to the Premises shall remain the property of Tenant and may be removed, subject to the provisions of Section 13b.

13. LEASEHOLD IMPROVEMENTS; TENANT’S PROPERTY

a. All fixtures, equipment, improvements and appurtenances permanently attached to or built into the Premises at the commencement of or during the Term, whether or not by or at the expense of Tenant (“Leasehold Improvements”), shall be and remain a part of the Premises, shall be the property of Landlord and shall not be removed by Tenant, except as expressly provided in Section 13b.

b. All movable partitions, business and trade fixtures, machinery and equipment, communications equipment and office equipment located in the Premises and acquired by or for the account of Tenant, without expense to Landlord, which can be removed without structural damage to the Building, and all furniture, furnishings and other articles of movable personal property owned by Tenant and located in the Premises (collectively “Tenant’s Property”) shall be and shall remain the property of Tenant and may be removed by Tenant at any time during the Term; provided that if any of Tenant’s Property is removed, Tenant shall promptly repair any damage to the Premises or to the Building resulting from such removal.

 

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14. RULES AND REGULATIONS

Tenant agrees to comply with (and cause its agents, contractors, employees and invitees to comply with) the rules and regulations attached hereto as Addendum B and with such reasonable modifications thereof and additions thereto as Landlord may from time to time make, provided the Landlord will impose no parking charge and, provided further, Landlord enforces all such rules and regulations in a non-discriminatory manner among all tenants of the Building. Irrespective of any provision to the contrary, Landlord may not enact any future rule or regulation which adversely affects Tenant, increase Tenant’s obligations or decreases Tenant’s rights. Landlord shall enforce the rules and regulations in a substantially identical manner among all tenants in the Building and Project. Landlord shall not be responsible for any violation of said rules and regulations by other tenants or occupants of the Building or Project.

15. CERTAIN RIGHTS RESERVED BY LANDLORD

Landlord reserves the following rights, exercisable without liability to Tenant for (a) damage or injury to property, person or business, (b) causing an actual or constructive eviction from the Premises, or (c) disturbing Tenant’s use or possession of the Premises:

a. To name the Building and Project and to change the name or street address of the Building or Project, provided, however, as long as Tenant or an affiliate occupies at least fifty percent (50%) of the entire project, Landlord shall not name Building after another tenant;

b. To install and maintain all signs on the exterior and interior of the Building and Project;

c. To have pass keys to the Premises and all doors within the Premises, excluding Tenant’s vaults and safes;

d. At any time during the Term, and on reasonable prior notice to Tenant, to inspect the Premises, and to show the Premises to any prospective purchaser or mortgagee of the Project, or to any assignee of any mortgage on the Project, or to others having an interest in the Project or Landlord, and during the last six months of the Term, to show the Premises to prospective tenants thereof; and

e. To enter the Premises for the purpose of making inspections, repairs, alterations, additions or improvements to the Premises of the Building (including, without limitation, checking, calibrating, adjusting or balancing controls and other parts of the HVAC system), and to take all steps as may be necessary or desirable for the safety, protection, maintenance or preservation of the Premises or the Building or Landlord’s interest therein, or as may be necessary or desirable for the operation or improvement of the Building or in order to comply with laws, orders or requirements of governmental or other authority. Landlord agrees to use its best efforts (except in an emergency) to minimize interference with Tenant’s business in the Premises in the course of any such entry.

16. ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLETTING

No assignment of this Lease or sublease of all or any part of the Premises shall be permitted, except as provided in this Article 16.

a. Tenant may assign or hypothecate this Lease or any interest herein or sublet the Premises or any part thereof, or permit the use of the Premises by any party other than Tenant without Landlord’s consent, provided however, that Landlord shall have the right to approve the use of such subtenant. If such proposed use is consistent with the permitted use Landlord’s approval shall not be withheld. Any of the foregoing acts without such consent shall be void.

b. If at any time or from time to time during the Term Tenant desires to assign this Lease or sublet all or any part of the Premises, Tenant shall give notice to Landlord setting forth its desire to Sublease and the permitted use of such subtenant. Landlord shall notify Tenant within five (5) days after Tenant’s notice is given whether Landlord approves the proposed use (if other than the permitted use per this lease), (failure of Landlord to respond in such time period shall be deemed approval of the request), Tenant may sublet such space to such proposed assignee or subtenant on the following further conditions:

(1) Landlord shall have the right to approve such proposed assignee or subtenant on the basis of their use, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld;

 

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(2) No assignment or sublease shall be valid and no assignee or sublessee shall take possession of the Premises until an executed counterpart of such assignment or sublease has been delivered to Landlord;

(3) No assignee or sublessee shall have a further right to assign or sublet except on the terms herein contained; and

(4) Fifty percent (50%) of any Any sums or other economic consideration received by Tenant as a result of such assignment or subletting, however denominated under the assignment or sublease, which exceed, in the aggregate, (i) the total sums which Tenant is obligated to pay Landlord under this Lease (prorated to reflect obligations allocable to any portion of the Premises subleased), plus (ii) any real estate brokerage commissions or fees payable by Tenant in connection with such assignment or subletting plus any economic concessions (e.g., free rent, tenant improvement allowance given to subtenant, shall be paid to Landlord as additional rent under this Lease without affecting or reducing any other obligations of Tenant hereunder.

c. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs a and b above, Tenant may assign this Lease or sublet the Premises or any portion thereof, without Landlord’s consent with respect to use to any corporation which controls, is controlled by or is under common control with Tenant, or to any corporation resulting from a merger or consolidation with Tenant, or to any person or entity which acquires all the assets of Tenant’s business as a going concern, provided that (i) the assignee or sublessee assumes, in full, the obligations of Tenant under this Lease, (ii) Tenant remains fully liable under this Lease, and (iii) the use of the Premises under Article 8 remains unchanged.

d. No subletting or assignment shall release Tenant of Tenant’s obligations under this Lease or alter the primary liability of Tenant to pay the Rent and to perform all other obligations to be performed by Tenant hereunder. The acceptance of Rent by Landlord from any other person shall not be deemed to be a waiver by Landlord of any provision hereof. Consent to one assignment or subletting shall not be deemed consent to any subsequent assignment or subletting. In the event of default by an assignee or subtenant of Tenant or any successor of Tenant in the performance of any of the terms hereof, Landlord may proceed directly against Tenant without the necessity of exhausting remedies against such assignee, subtenant or successor. Landlord may consent to subsequent assignments of the Lease or sublettings or amendments or modifications to the Lease with assignees of Tenant, without notifying Tenant, or any successor of Tenant, and without obtaining its or their consent thereto and any such actions shall not relieve Tenant of liability under this Lease .

e. If Tenant assigns the Lease or sublets the Premises or requests the consent of Landlord to any assignment or subletting or if Tenant requests the consent of Landlord for any act that Tenant proposes to do then Tenant shall, upon demand, pay Landlord an administrative fee of One Hundred Fifty and No/100ths Dollars ($150.00) plus any attorneys’ fees reasonably incurred by Landlord in connection with such act or request.

17. HOLDING OVER

If after expiration of the Term, Tenant remains in possession of the Premises with Landlord’s permission (express or implied), Tenant shall become a tenant from month to month only, upon all the provisions of this Lease (except as to term and Base Rent), but the “Monthly Installments of Base Rent” payable by Tenant shall be increased to one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the Monthly Installments of Base Rent payable by Tenant at the expiration of the Term. Such monthly rent shall be payable in advance on or before the first day of each month. If either party desires to terminate such month to month tenancy, it shall give the other party not less than thirty (30) days advance written notice of the date of termination.

18. SURRENDER OF PREMISES

a. Tenant shall peaceably surrender the Premises to Landlord on the Expiration Date, in broom-clean condition and in as good condition as when Tenant took possession, except for (i) reasonable wear and tear, (ii) loss by fire or other casualty, and (iii) loss by condemnation; (iv) damage caused by Landlord; and (v) damage required to be repaired by Landlord. Tenant shall, on Landlord’s request, remove Tenant’s Property on or before the Expiration Date and promptly repair all damage to the Premises or Building caused by such removal. Tenant shall not be required to remove any wiring or cabling and shall not be required to re-paint, re-carpet, or “patch to match”.

b. If Tenant abandons or surrenders the Premises, or is dispossessed by process of law or otherwise, any of Tenant’s Property left on the Premises shall be deemed to be abandoned, and, at Landlord’s option, title shall pass to Landlord under this Lease as by a bill of sale. If Landlord elects to remove all or any part of such Tenant’s Property, the cost of removal, including repairing any damage to the Premises or Building caused by such removal, shall be paid by Tenant. On the Expiration Date Tenant shall surrender all keys to the Premises.

 

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19. DESTRUCTION OR DAMAGE

a. If the Premises or the portion of the Building necessary for Tenant’s occupancy is damaged by fire, earthquake, act of God, the elements or other casualty, Landlord shall, subject to the provisions of this Article, promptly repair the damage, if such repairs can, in Landlord’s opinion, be completed within ninety (90) days. If Landlord determines that repairs can be completed within ninety (90) days, this Lease shall remain in full force and effect, except that if such damage is not the result of the willful misconduct of Tenant or Tenant’s agents, employees, contractors, licensees or invitees, the Base Rent and additional rent shall be abated to the extent Tenant’s use of the Premises is impaired, commencing with the date of damage and continuing until completion of the repairs required of Landlord under Section 19d.

b. If in Landlord’s opinion, such repairs to the Premises or portion of the Building necessary for Tenant’s occupancy cannot be completed within ninety (90) days, Landlord may elect upon notice to Tenant given within thirty (30) days after the date of such fire or other casualty, to repair such damage, in which event this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, but the Base Rent and additional rent shall be partially abated as provided in Section 19a. If Landlord does not so elect to make such repairs, this Lease shall terminate as of the date of such fire or other casualty, and Tenant shall have up to thirty (30) days to vacate the Premises. Should Landlord elect to repair the Premises, but it is reasonably estimated that said repairs cannot be completed within 180 days, tenant may elect to terminate this lease.

c. If any other portion of the Building or Project is totally destroyed or damaged to the extent that in Landlord’s opinion repair thereof cannot be completed within ninety (90) days, Landlord may elect upon notice to Tenant given within thirty (30) days after the date of such fire or other casualty, to repair such damage, in which event this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, but the Base Rent and additional rent shall be partially abated as provided in Section 19a. If Landlord does not elect to make such repairs, this Lease shall terminate as of the date of such fire or other casualty, and Tenant shall have up to thirty (30) days to vacate the Premises. Should Landlord elect to repair the Premises, but it is reasonably estimated that said repairs cannot be completed within 180 days, Tenant may elect to terminate this lease.

d. If the Premises are to be repaired under this Article, Landlord shall repair at its cost any injury or damage to the Building and Building Standard Work in the Premises to the condition existing immediately prior to such casualty. Tenant shall be responsible at its sole cost and expense for the repair, restoration and replacement of any other Leasehold Improvements and Tenant’s Property. Landlord shall not be liable for any loss of business, inconvenience or annoyance arising from any repair or restoration of any portion of the Premises, Building or Project as a result of any damage from fire or other casualty.

e. This Lease shall be considered an express agreement governing any case of damage to or destruction of the Premises, Building or Project by fire or other casualty, and any present or future law which purports to govern the rights of Landlord and Tenant in such circumstances in the absence of express agreement, shall have no application.

20. EMINENT DOMAIN

a. If the whole of the Building or Premises is lawfully taken by condemnation or in any other manner for any public or quasi-public purpose, this Lease shall terminate as of the date of such taking, and Rent shall be prorated to such date. If less than the whole of the Building or Premises is so taken, this Lease shall be unaffected by such taking, provided that (i) Tenant shall have the right to terminate this Lease by notice to Landlord given within ninety (90) days after the date of such taking if twenty percent (20%) or more of the Premises is taken and the remaining area of the Premises is not reasonably sufficient for Tenant to continue operation of its business, and (ii) Landlord shall have the right to terminate this Lease by notice to Tenant given within ninety (90) days after the date of such taking. If either Landlord or Tenant so elects to terminate this Lease, the Lease shall terminate on the thirtieth (30th) day after either such notice. The Rent shall be prorated to the date of termination. If this Lease continues in force upon such partial taking, the Base Rent and Tenant’s Proportionate Share shall be equitably adjusted according to the remaining Rentable Area of the Premises and Project.

b. In the event of any taking, partial or whole, all of the proceeds of any award, judgment or settlement payable by the condemning authority shall be the exclusive property of Landlord, and Tenant hereby assigns to Landlord all of its right, title and interest in any award, judgment or settlement from the condemning authority. Tenant, however, shall have the right, to the extent that Landlord’s award is not reduced or prejudiced, to claim from the condemning authority (but not from Landlord) such compensation as may be recoverable by Tenant in its own right for relocation expenses and damage to Tenant’s personal property.

c. In the event of a partial taking of the Premises which does not result in a termination of this Lease, Landlord shall restore the remaining portion of the Premises as nearly as practicable to its condition prior to the condemnation or taking, but only

 

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to the extent of Building Standard Work. Tenant shall be responsible at its sole cost and expense for the repair, restoration and replacement of any other Leasehold Improvements and Tenant’s Property.

21. INDEMNIFICATION

a. Tenant shall indemnify and hold Landlord harmless against and from liability and claims of any kind for loss or damage to property of Tenant or any other person, or for any injury to or death of any person, to the extent arising out of: (1) Tenant’s use and occupancy of the Premises, or any work, activity or other things allowed or suffered by Tenant to be done in, on or about the Premises; (2) any breach or default by Tenant of any of Tenant’s obligations under this Lease; or (3) any negligent or otherwise tortious act or omission of Tenant, its agents, employees, invitees or contractors. Tenant shall at Tenant’s expense, and by counsel satisfactory to Landlord, defend Landlord in any action or proceeding arising from any such claim and shall indemnify Landlord against all costs, attorneys’ fees, expert witness fees and any other expenses incurred in such action or proceeding. As a material part of the consideration for Landlord’s execution of this Lease, Tenant hereby assumes all risk of damage or injury to any person or property in the Premises from any cause, unless arising from Landlord’s acts, negligence, default, etc.

b. Landlord shall not be liable for injury or damage which may be sustained by the person or property of Tenant, its employees, invitees or customers in the Premises, caused by or resulting from fire, steam, electricity, gas, water or rain which may leak or flow from or into any part of the Premises, or from the breakage, leakage, obstruction or other defects of pipes, sprinklers, wires, appliances, plumbing, air conditioning or lighting fixtures, whether such damage or injury results from conditions arising upon the Premises or upon other portions of the Building or Project or from other sources. Landlord shall not be liable for any damages arising from any act or omission of any other tenant of the Building or Project.

22. TENANT’S INSURANCE

a. All insurance required to be carried by Tenant hereunder shall be issued by responsible insurance companies reasonably acceptable to Landlord and Landlord’s lender and qualified to do business in the State. Each policy shall name Landlord, and at Landlord’s request any mortgagee of Landlord, as an additional insured, as their respective interests may appear. Each policy shall contain (i) a cross-liability endorsement, (ii) a provision that such policy and the coverage evidenced thereby, shall be primary and non-contributing with respect to any policies carried by Landlord and that any coverage carried by Landlord shall be excess insurance, and (iii) a waiver by the insurer of any right of subrogation against Landlord, its agents, employees and representatives, which arises or might arise by reason of any payment under such policy or by reason of any act or omission of Landlord, its agents, employees or representatives. A copy of each paid up policy (authenticated by the insurer) or certificate A Copy of the certificate of the insurer evidencing the existence and amount of each insurance policy required hereunder shall be delivered to Landlord before the date Tenant is first given the right of possession of the Premises, and thereafter within thirty (30) days after any demand by Landlord therefor. Landlord may, at any time and from time to time, inspect and/or copy any insurance policies required to be maintained by Tenant hereunder. No such policy shall be cancelable except after twenty (20) days written notice to Landlord and Landlord’s lender. Tenant shall furnish Landlord with Certificates, renewals or “binders” of any such policy at least ten (10) days prior to the expiration thereof. Tenant agrees that if Tenant does not take out and maintain such insurance, Landlord may (but shall not be required to) on five (5) days’ notice, procure said insurance on Tenant’s behalf and charge the Tenant the premiums together with a twenty-five percent (25%) handling charge, payable upon demand . Tenant shall have the right to provide such insurance coverage pursuant to blanket policies obtained by the Tenant, provided such blanket policies expressly afford coverage to the Premises, Landlord, Landlord’s mortgagee and Tenant as required by this Lease.

Landlord shall maintain commercial general liability (including contractual liability coverage applicable to indemnification provisions of this Lease) covering claims for personal and bodily injury and property damage in an amount not less than $3,000,000 per occurrence combined single limit and a general aggregate limit of not less than $5,000,000. Landlord shall also maintain casualty insurance on the Building and Premises in an amount of 100% of the replacement cost thereof.

b. Beginning on the date Tenant is given access to the Premises for any purpose and continuing until expiration of the Term, Tenant shall procure, pay for and maintain in effect policies of casualty insurance covering (i) all Leasehold Improvements (including any alterations, additions or improvements as may be made by Tenant pursuant to the provisions of Article 12 hereof), and (ii) trade fixtures, merchandise and other personal property from time to time in, on or about the Premises, in an amount not less than one hundred percent (100%)  eighty percent (80%) of their actual replacement

 

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cost from time to time, providing protection against any peril included with the classification “Fire and Extended Coverage” together with insurance against sprinkler damage, vandalism and malicious mischief. The proceeds of such insurance shall be used for the repair or replacement of the property so insured. Upon termination of this Lease following a casualty as set forth herein, the proceeds under (i) shall be paid to Landlord, and the proceeds under (ii) above shall be paid to Tenant.

c. Beginning on the date Tenant is given access to the Premises for any purpose and continuing until expiration of the Term, Tenant shall procure, pay for and maintain in effect workers’ compensation insurance as required by law and comprehensive public liability and property damage insurance with respect to the construction of improvements on the Premises, the use, operation or condition of the Premises and the operations of Tenant in, on or about the Premises, providing personal injury and broad form property damage coverage for not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) combined single limit for bodily injury, death and property damage liability.

d. Not less than every three (3) years during the Term, Landlord and Tenant shall mutually agree to increases, if any, in all of Tenant’s insurance policy limits for all insurance to be carried by Tenant as set forth in this Article. In the event Landlord and Tenant cannot mutually agree upon the amounts of said increases, then Tenant agrees that all insurance policy limits as set forth in this Article shall be adjusted for increases in the cost of living.

23. WAIVER OF SUBROGATION

Landlord and Tenant each hereby waive all rights of recovery against the other and against the officers, employees, agents and representatives of the other, on account of loss by or damage to the waiving party of its property or the property of others under its control, to the extent that such loss or damage is insured against under any fire and extended coverage insurance policy which either may have in force, or be required by this Lease to have in force, at the time of the loss or damage. Tenant shall, upon obtaining the policies of insurance required under this Lease, give notice to its insurance carrier or carriers that the foregoing mutual waiver of subrogation is contained in this Lease.

24. SUBORDINATION AND ATTORNMENT

Upon written request of Landlord, or any first mortgagee or first deed of trust beneficiary of Landlord, or ground lessor of Landlord, Tenant shall, in writing, subordinate its rights under this Lease to the lien of any first mortgage or first deed of trust, or to the interest of any lease in which Landlord is lessee, and to all advances made or hereafter to be made thereunder. However, before signing any subordination agreement, Tenant shall have the right to obtain from any lender or lessor or Landlord requesting such subordination, an agreement in writing providing that, as long as Tenant is not in default hereunder before expiration of all grace periods, this Lease shall remain in effect for the full Term. The holder of any security interest may, upon written notice to Tenant, elect to have this Lease prior to its security interest regardless of the time of the granting or recording of such security interest.

In the event of any foreclosure sale, transfer in lieu of foreclosure or termination of the lease in which Landlord is lessee, Tenant shall attorn to the purchaser, transferee or lessor as the case may be, and recognize that party as Landlord under this Lease, provided such party acquires and accepts the Premises subject to this Lease.

25. TENANT ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATES

Within ten (10)  twenty (20) days after written request from Landlord, Tenant shall execute and deliver to Landlord or Landlord’s designee, a written statement certifying (a) that this Lease is unmodified and in full force and effect, or is in full force and effect as modified and stating the modifications; (b) the amount of Base Rent and the date to which Base Rent and additional rent have been paid in advance; (c) the amount of any security deposited with Landlord; and (d) that Landlord is not in default hereunder or, if Landlord is claimed to be in default, stating the nature of any claimed default. Any such statement may be relied upon by a purchaser, assignee or lender. Tenant’s failure to execute and deliver such statement within the time required shall at Landlord’s election be a default under this Lease and shall also be conclusive upon Tenant that: (1) this Lease is in full force and effect and has not been modified except as represented by Landlord; (2) there are no uncured defaults in Landlord’s performance and that Tenant has no right of offset, counter-claim or deduction against Rent; and (3) not more than one month’s Rent has been paid in advance.

26. TRANSFER OF LANDLORD’S INTEREST

In the event of any sale or transfer by Landlord of the Premises, Building or Project, and assignment of this Lease by Landlord, Landlord shall be and is hereby entirely freed and relieved of any and all liability and obligations contained in or derived from this Lease arising out of any act, occurrence or omission relating to the Premises, Building, Project or Lease occurring after the consummation of such sale or transfer, providing the purchaser shall expressly assume all of the covenants and obligations of Landlord under this Lease. If any security deposit or prepaid Rent has been paid by Tenant,

 

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Landlord may transfer the security deposit or prepaid Rent to Landlord’s successor and upon such transfer, Landlord shall be relieved of any and all further liability with respect thereto.

27. DEFAULT

27.1. Tenant’s Default. The occurrence of any one or more of the following events shall constitute a default and breach of this Lease by Tenant:

a. If Tenant abandons or vacates the Premises accompanied by non-payment of Rent; or

b. If Tenant fails to pay any Rent or any other charges required to be paid by Tenant under this Lease and such failure continues for five (5) days after such payment is due and payable; or

c. If Tenant fails to promptly and fully perform any other covenant, condition or agreement contained in this Lease and such failure continues for thirty (30) days after written notice thereof from Landlord to Tenant unless such failure is not susceptible of cure within such 30 days and Tenant is diligently pursuing a cure; or

d. If a writ of attachment or execution is levied on this Lease or on any of Tenant’s Property; or

e. If Tenant makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, or provides for an arrangement, composition, extension or adjustment with its creditors; or

f. If Tenant files a voluntary petition for relief or if a petition against Tenant in a proceeding under the federal bankruptcy laws or other insolvency laws is filed and not withdrawn or dismissed within forty-five (45) days thereafter, or if under the provisions of any law providing for reorganization or winding up of corporations, any court of competent jurisdiction assumes jurisdiction, custody or control of Tenant or any substantial part of its property and such jurisdiction, custody or control remains in force unrelinquished, unstayed or unterminated for a period of forty-five (45) days; or

g. If in any proceeding or action in which Tenant is a party, a trustee, receiver, agent or custodian is appointed to take charge of the Premises or Tenant’s Property (or has the authority to do so) for the purpose of enforcing a lien against the Premises or Tenant’s Property; or

h. If Tenant is a partnership or consists of more than one (1) person or entity, if any partner of the partnership or other person or entity is involved in any of the acts or events described in subparagraphs d through g above.

27.2. Remedies. In the event of Tenant’s default hereunder, then in addition to any other rights or remedies Landlord may have under any law, Landlord shall have the right, at Landlord’s option, without further notice or demand of any kind to do the following:

a. Terminate this Lease and Tenant’s right to possession of the Premises and reenter the Premises and take possession thereof, and Tenant shall have no further claim to the Premises or under this Lease; or

b. Continue this Lease in effect, reenter and occupy the Premises for the account of Tenant, and collect any unpaid Rent or other charges which have or thereafter become due and payable; or

c. Reenter the Premises under the provisions of subparagraph b, and thereafter elect to terminate this Lease and Tenant’s right to possession of the Premises.

If Landlord reenters the Premises under the provisions of subparagraphs b or c above, Landlord shall not be deemed to have terminated this Lease or the obligation of Tenant to pay any Rent or other charges thereafter occurring, unless Landlord notifies Tenant in writing of Landlord’s election to terminate this Lease. In the event of any reentry or retaking of possession by Landlord, Landlord shall have the right, but not the obligation, to remove all or any part of Tenant’s Property in the Premises and to place such property in storage at a public warehouse at the expense and risk of Tenant. If Landlord elects to relet the Premises for the account of Tenant, the rent received by Landlord from such reletting shall be applied as follows: first, to the payment of any indebtedness other than Rent due hereunder from Tenant to Landlord; second, to the payment of any costs of such reletting; third, to the payment of the cost of any alterations or repairs to the Premises; fourth, to the payment of Rent due and unpaid hereunder; and the balance, if any, shall be held by Landlord and applied in payment of future Rent as it becomes due. If that portion of rent received from the reletting which is applied against the Rent due hereunder is less than the amount of the Rent due, Tenant shall pay the deficiency to Landlord promptly upon demand by Landlord. Such deficiency shall be calculated and paid monthly. Tenant shall also pay to Landlord, as soon as determined, any costs and expenses incurred by Landlord in connection with such reletting or in making alterations and repairs to the Premises, which are not covered by the rent received from the reletting.

 

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Should Landlord elect to terminate this Lease under the provisions of subparagraph a or c above, Landlord may recover as damages from Tenant the following:

1. Past Rent. The worth at the time of the award of any unpaid Rent which had been earned at the time of termination; plus

2. Rent Prior to Award. The worth at the time of the award of the amount by which the unpaid Rent which would have been earned after termination until the time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that Tenant proves could have been reasonably avoided; plus

3. Rent After Award. The worth at the time of the award of the amount by which the unpaid Rent for the balance of the Term after the time of award exceeds the amount of the rental loss that Tenant proves could be reasonably avoided; plus

4. Proximately Caused Damages. Any other amount necessary to compensate Landlord for all detriment proximately caused by Tenant’s failure to perform its obligations under this Lease or which in the ordinary course of things would be likely to result therefrom, including, but not limited to, any costs or expenses (including attorneys’ fees), incurred by Landlord in (a) retaking possession of the Premises, (b) maintaining the Premises after Tenant’s default, (c) preparing the Premises for reletting to a new tenant, including any repairs or alterations, and (d) reletting the Premises, including broker’s commissions.

“The worth at the time of the award” as used in subparagraphs 1 and 2, is to be computed by allowing interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum. “The worth at the time of the award” as used in subparagraph 3 above, is to be computed by discounting the amount at the discount rate of the Federal Reserve Bank situated nearest to the Premises at the time of the award plus one percent (1%).

The waiver by Landlord of any breach of any term, covenant or condition of this Lease shall not be deemed a waiver of such term, covenant or condition or of any subsequent breach of the same or any other term, covenant or condition. Acceptance of Rent by Landlord subsequent to any breach hereof shall not be deemed a waiver of any preceding breach other than the failure to pay the particular Rent so accepted, regardless of Landlord’s knowledge of any breach at the time of such acceptance of Rent. Landlord shall not be deemed to have waived any term, covenant or condition unless Landlord gives Tenant written notice of such waiver.

27.3. Landlord’s Default. If Landlord fails to perform any covenant, condition or agreement contained in this Lease within ten (10) days after receipt of written notice from Tenant specifying such default, or if such default cannot reasonably be cured within ten (10) days (or 24 hours in the case of an emergency), if Landlord fails to commence to cure within that ten (10) day period, then Landlord shall be liable to Tenant for any damages sustained by Tenant as a result of Landlord’s breach; provided, however, it is expressly understood and agreed that if Tenant obtains a money judgment against Landlord resulting from any default or other claim arising under this Lease, that judgment shall be satisfied only out of the rents, issues, profits, and other income actually received on account of Landlord’s right, title and interest in the Premises, Building or Project, and no other real, personal, or mixed property of Landlord (or of any of the partners which comprise Landlord, if any) wherever situated, shall be subject to levy to satisfy such judgment. If, after notice to Landlord of default, Landlord (or any first mortgagee or first deed of trust beneficiary of Landlord) fails to cure the default as provided herein, then Tenant shall have the right to cure that default at Landlord’s expense. Tenant shall not have the right to terminate this Lease or to withhold, reduce or offset any amount against any payments of Rent or any other charges due and payable under this Lease except as otherwise specifically provided herein.

28. BROKERAGE FEES

Tenant warrants and represents that it has not dealt with any real estate broker or agent in connection with this Lease or its negotiation except Broker(s) listed in Article 2.c. of this Lease. Tenant shall indemnify and hold Landlord harmless from any cost, expense or liability (including costs of suit and reasonable attorneys’ fees) for any compensation, commission or fees claimed by any other real estate broker or agent in connection with this Lease or its negotiation by reason of any act of Tenant.

29. NOTICES

All notices, approvals and demands permitted or required to be given under this Lease shall be in writing and deemed duly served or given if personally delivered or sent by certified or registered U.S. mail, postage prepaid, and addressed as follows: (a) if to Landlord, to Landlord’s Mailing Address and to the Building manager, and (b) if to Tenant, to Tenant’s Mailing Address; provided, however, notices to Tenant shall be deemed duly served or given if delivered or mailed to

 

18


Tenant at the Premises. Landlord and Tenant may from time to time by notice to the other designate another place for receipt of future notices.

30. GOVERNMENT ENERGY OR UTILITY CONTROLS

In the event of imposition of federal, state or local government controls, rules, regulations or restrictions on the use or consumption of energy or other utilities during the Term, both Landlord and Tenant shall be bound thereby. In the event of a difference in interpretation by Landlord and Tenant of any such controls, the interpretation of Landlord shall prevail, and Landlord shall have the right to enforce compliance therewith, including the right of entry into the Premises to effect compliance.

31. RELOCATION OF PREMISES

Landlord shall have the right to relocate the Premises to another part of the Building in accordance with the following:

a. The new premises shall be substantially the same in size, dimensions, configuration, decor and nature as the Premises described in this Lease, and if the relocation occurs after the Commencement Date, shall be placed in that condition by Landlord at its cost.

b. Landlord shall give Tenant at lease thirty (30) days written notice of Landlord’s intention to relocate the Premises.

c. As nearly as practicable, the physical relocation of the Premises shall take place on a weekend and shall be completed before the following Monday. If the physical relocation has not been completed in that time, Base Rent shall abate in full from the time the physical relocation commences to the time it is completed. Upon completion of such relocation, the new premises shall become the “Premises” under this Lease.

d. All reasonable costs incurred by Tenant as a result of the relocation shall be paid by Landlord.

e. If the new premises are smaller than the Premises as it existed before the relocation, Base Rent shall be reduced proportionately.

f. The parties hereto shall immediately execute an amendment to this Lease setting forth the relocation of the Premises and the reduction of Base Rent, if any.

32. QUIET ENJOYMENT

Tenant, upon paying the Rent and performing all of its obligations under this Lease, shall peaceably and quietly enjoy the Premises, subject to the terms of this Lease and to any mortgage, lease or other agreement to which this Lease may be subordinate.

33. OBSERVANCE OF LAW

Tenant shall not use the Premises or permit anything to be done in or about the Premises which will in any way conflict with any law, statute, ordinance or governmental rule under Tenant’s control or regulation now in force or which may hereafter be enacted or promulgated. Tenant shall, at its sole cost and expense, promptly comply with all laws, statutes, ordinances and governmental rules, regulations or requirements now in force or which may hereafter be in force, and with the requirements of any board of fire insurance underwriters or other similar bodies now or hereafter constituted, relating to, or affecting the condition manner of, use or occupancy of the Premises, excluding structural changes not related to or affected by Tenant’s Improvements or acts. The non applicable judgment of any court of competent jurisdiction or the admission of Tenant in any action against Tenant, whether Landlord is a party thereto or not, that Tenant has violated any law, ordinance or governmental rule, regulation or requirement, shall be conclusive of that fact as between Landlord and Tenant.

34. FORCE MAJEURE.

Any prevention, delay or stoppage of work to be performed by Landlord or Tenant which is due to strikes, labor disputes, inability to obtain labor, materials, equipment or reasonable substitutes therefor, acts of God, governmental restrictions or regulations or controls, judicial orders, enemy or hostile government actions, civil commotion, fire or other casualty, or other causes beyond the reasonable control of the party obligated to perform hereunder, shall excuse performance of the work by

 

19


that party for a period equal to the duration of that prevention, delay or stoppage. Nothing in this Article 34 shall excuse or delay Tenant’s obligation to pay Rent or other charges under this lease.

35. CURING TENANT’S DEFAULTS.

If Tenant defaults, after the expiration of all grace periods, in the performance of any of its obligations under this Lease, Landlord may (but shall not be obligated to) without waiving such default, and with an additional five (5) days’ notice, perform the same for the account at the expense of Tenant, (unless Tenant shall have theretofore commenced a cure). Any amount so expended by Landlord shall be paid by Tenant promptly after demand with interest at the prime commercial rate then being charged by Bank of America NT & SA plus two percent (2%) per annum, from the date of such work, but not to exceed the maximum rate then allowed by law. Landlord shall have no liability to Tenant for any damage, inconvenience, or interference with the use of the Premises by Tenant as a result of performing any such work.

36. SIGN CONTROL.

Tenant shall not affix, paint, erect or inscribe any sign, projection, awning, signal or advertisement of any kind to any part of the Premises, Building or Project, including without limitation, the inside or outside of windows or doors, without the written consent of Landlord, not to be unreasonably withheld. Landlord shall have the right to remove any signs or other matter, installed without Landlord’s permission, without being liable to Tenant by reason of such removal, and to charge the cost of removal to Tenant as additional rent hereunder, payable within ten (10) days of written demand by Landlord. Landlord approves the following signs: (i) “Cendant” sign located on North building facing freeway; and (ii) Coldwell Banker sign on South side of South building.

37. MISCELLANEOUS.

a. Accord and Satisfaction; Allocation of Payments. No payment by Tenant or receipt by Landlord of a lesser amount than the Rent provided for in this Lease shall be deemed to be other than on account of the earliest due Rent, nor shall any endorsement or statement on any check or letter accompanying any check or payment as Rent be deemed an accord and satisfaction, and Landlord may accept such check or payment without prejudice to Landlord’s right to recover the balance of the Rent or pursue any other remedy provided for in this Lease. In connection with the foregoing, Landlord shall have the absolute right in its sole discretion to apply any payment received from Tenant to any account or other payment of Tenant then not current and due or delinquent.

b. Addenda. If any provision contained in an addendum to this Lease is inconsistent with any other provision herein, the provision contained in the addendum shall control, unless otherwise provided in the addendum.

c. Attorneys’ Fees. If any action or proceeding is brought by either party against the other pertaining to or arising out of this Lease, the finally prevailing party shall be entitled to recover all costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred on account of such action or proceeding.

d. Captions, Articles and Section Numbers. The captions appearing within the body of this Lease have been inserted as a matter of convenience and for reference only and in no way define, limit or enlarge the scope or meaning of this Lease. All references to Article and Section numbers refer to Articles and Sections in this Lease.

e. Changes Requested by Lender. Neither Landlord or Tenant shall unreasonably withhold its consent to changes or amendments to this Lease requested by the lender on Landlord’s interest, so long as these changes do not alter the basic business terms of this Lease or otherwise diminish any rights or increase any obligations of the party from whom consent to such change or amendment is requested.

f. Choice of Law. This Lease shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of California.

g. Consent. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Lease to the contrary, Tenant shall have no claim, and hereby waives the right to any claim against Landlord for money damages by reason of any refusal, withholding or delaying by Landlord of any consent, approval or statement of satisfaction and in such event, Tenant’s only remedies therefor shall be an action for specific performance, injunction or declaratory judgment to enforce any right to such consent, etc.

h. Corporate Authority. If Tenant is a corporation, each individual signing this Lease on behalf of Tenant represents and warrants that he is duly authorized to execute and deliver this Lease on behalf of the corporation, and that this Lease is binding on Tenant in accordance with its terms. Tenant shall at Landlord’s request, deliver a certified copy of a resolution of its board of directors authorizing such execution.

 

20


i. Counterparts. This Lease may be executed in multiple counterparts, all of which shall constitute one and the same Lease.

j. Execution of Lease; No Option. The submission of this Lease to Tenant shall be for examination purposes only, and does not and shall not constitute a reservation of or option for Tenant to lease, or otherwise create any interest of Tenant in the Premises or any other premises within the Building or project. Execution of this Lease by Tenant and its return to Landlord shall not be binding on Landlord notwithstanding any time interval, until Landlord has in fact signed and delivered this Lease to Tenant.

k. Furnishing of Financial Statements; Tenant’s Representation. In order to induce Landlord to enter into this Lease Tenant agrees that it shall promptly furnish Landlord, from time to time, upon Landlord’s written request, with financial statements reflecting Tenant’s current financial condition. If Tenant is a reporting company under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the foregoing request will be satisfied by the delivery of Tenant’s annual report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

l. Further Assurances. The parties agree to promptly sign all documents reasonably requested to give effect to the provisions of this Lease.

m. Mortgage Protection. Tenant agrees to send by certified or registered mail to any first mortgagee or first deed of trust beneficiary of Landlord whose address has been furnished to Tenant, a copy of any notice of default served by Tenant on Landlord. If Landlord fails to cure such default within the time provided for in this Lease, such mortgagee or beneficiary shall have an additional thirty (30) days to cure such default; provided that if such default cannot reasonably be cured within that thirty (30) day period, then such mortgagee or beneficiary shall have such additional time to cure the default as is reasonably necessary under the circumstances.

n. Prior Agreements; Amendments. This Lease contains all of the agreements of the parties with respect to any matter covered or mentioned in this Lease, and no prior agreement or understanding pertaining to any such matter shall be effective for any purpose. No provisions of this Lease may be amended or added to except by an agreement in writing signed by the parties or their respective successors in interest.

o. Recording. Tenant shall not record this Lease without the prior written consent of Landlord. Tenant, upon the request of Landlord, shall execute and acknowledge a “short form” memorandum of this Lease for recording purposes.

p. Severability. A final determination by a court of competent jurisdiction that any provision of this Lease is invalid shall not affect the validity of any other provision, and any provision so determined to be invalid shall, to the extent possible, be construed to accomplish its intended effect.

q. Successors and Assigns. This Lease shall apply to and bind the heirs, personal representatives, and permitted successors and assigns of the parties.

r. Time of the Essence. Time is of the essence of this Lease.

s. Waiver. No delay or omission in the exercise of any right or remedy of Landlord upon any default by Tenant shall impair such right or remedy or be construed as a waiver of such default.

t. Terminology. For purposes of this Lease the term “Landlord” shall be interchangeable with “Lessor” and the term “Tenant” shall be interchangeable with “Lessee”.

The receipt and acceptance by Landlord of delinquent Rent shall not constitute a waiver of any other default; it shall constitute only a waiver of timely payment for the particular Rent payment involved.

No act or conduct of Landlord, including, without limitation, the acceptance of keys to the Premises, shall constitute an acceptance of the surrender of the Premises by Tenant before the expiration of the Term. Only a written notice from Landlord to Tenant shall constitute acceptance of the surrender of the Premises and accomplish a termination of the Lease.

Landlord shall make available to Tenant sufficient space on the roof of the Building for one or more satellite and/or radio antennae and/or other telecommunication equipment and/or rooftop supplementary HVAC units (collectively “Rooftop Equipment”) and access to the roof for purposes of construction, maintenance, repair, operation and use of such Rooftop Equipment, as well as reasonable space in the Building to run electric, telephone and telecommunications conduits from the Rooftop Equipment to the Premises. Said Rooftop

 

   21   
     


Equipment will not be visible from the street or negatively affect the appearance of the Building. Tenant will inform Landlord prior to installation of any rooftop devices and obtain approval of the installation method, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld.

Landlord’s consent to or approval of any act by Tenant requiring Landlord’s consent or approval shall not be deemed to waive or render unnecessary Landlord’s consent to or approval of any subsequent act by Tenant.

Any waiver by Landlord of any default must be in writing and shall not be a waiver of any other default concerning the same or any other provision of the Lease.

The Parties hereto have executed this Lease as of the dates set forth below.

 

Date: August 25, 2003

   

Date: 8/29/03

Landlord: MV Plaza, Inc, a California Corporation

   

Tenant: Cendant Corporation, a Delaware Corporation

 

By:  

/s/ Andrei Olenicoff

   

By:

 

/s/ Illegible

Name: Andrei Olenicoff

   

Name:

 

Title: Vice President, Asset Management

   

Title:

 

 

   22   
     


ADDENDUM “A”

 

BY AND BETWEEN:    MV PLAZA, INC., CALIFORNIA CORPORATION
AS LANDLORD; AND:    CENDANT CORPORATION, A DELAWARE CORPORATION
AS TENANT   
TO LEASE DATED:   

 

1. Options to Renew

 

  (a) Provided that Tenant is not in material default of this Lease at the time of the exercise of the Extension Option (as defined below) or at the expiration of the initial term of this Lease, the Tenant shall have three (3) options to renew and extend this Lease (the “Extension Option”) for one term each of five (5) years (the “Renewal Term”), upon written notice to the Landlord delivered not less than twelve (12) months before the expiration of the initial Lease Term. Upon the delivery of such notice by Tenant and subject to the conditions set forth in the preceding sentence, this Lease shall be extended without the necessity of the execution of any further instrument or document; provided, however, that each party agrees to execute and deliver such further instruments or documents as the other party may reasonably request to memorialize or acknowledge the exercise of the Extension Option. The Renewal Term shall commence upon the expiration of the initial term of this Lease, shall expire upon the anniversary of such date five (5) years thereafter, and be upon the same terms, covenants and conditions as provided in this Lease for the initial Lease Term, except that (1) the Base Rent shall be ninety-five percent (95%) of the then prevailing fair market rental rate as of the commencement of the Renewal Term and (2) the Base Year shall be the calendar year in which the particular Renewal Term commences. The determination of Fair Market Value shall factor in all market inducements given to a non-renewal tenant for comparable space in comparable buildings in Mission Viejo, calculated as of the expiration date of the Lease and the basis of a new five year letting of the Premises, including, but not limited to, free rent, tenant improvements, expense stops, moving allowances, brokerage commissions, work allowances, etc.

 

  (b) Rent . The prevailing fair market rental rate shall be ninety-five percent (95%) of the then going rate for comparable space in comparable buildings in Mission Viejo. Landlord shall notify Tenant of Landlord’s good faith determination of prevailing fair market rental no later than one (1) month after Tenant’s exercise of the Extension Option. No later than one (1) month after Landlord notifies Tenant of the prevailing fair market rental, Tenant shall notify Landlord whether Tenant accepts Landlord’s determination. If Tenant does not agree, Tenant and Landlord shall proceed pursuant to paragraph (c) below.

 

  (c) Objection to Landlord’s Determination . In the event Tenant timely objects to the fair market rental rate submitted by Landlord, Landlord and Tenant shall attempt in good faith to agree upon such fair market rental rate using their best good faith efforts. If Landlord and Tenant fail to reach agreement on such fair market rental rate within fifteen (15) days following Tenant’s notice that Tenant does not accept landlord’s determination of the prevailing fair market rental rate, then each party shall submit a new determination of prevailing fair market rental rate to appraisal in accordance with (d) below.

 

  (d) Appraisal . Landlord and Tenant shall each appoint one (1) independent appraiser who shall by profession be a real estate broker who shall have been active over the five (5) year period ending on the date of such appointment in the leasing of commercial properties in the Mission Viejo area. The determination of the appraisers shall be limited to solely the issue of whether Landlord’s or Tenant’s submitted fair market rental rate for the Premises is the closest to the actual fair market rental rate for the Premises as determined by the appraisers, taking into account the requirements of this Section 1(a). Such decision shall be based upon the projected prevailing fair market rental rate as of the commencement date of the Renewal Term. Each such appraiser shall be appointed within the fifteen (15) day period after Tenant’s notice that Tenant dogs not accept Landlord’s determination.

 

     
     


ADDENDUM “A”

PAGE 2

 

(i) The two (2) appraisers so appointed shall within fifteen (15) days of the date of appointment of the last appointed appraiser agree upon and appoint a third appraiser who shall be qualified under the same criteria set forth hereinabove for qualifications of the initial two (2) appraisers.

(ii) The three (3) appraisers shall within thirty (30) days of the appointment of the third appraiser reach a decision as to whether the parties shall use Landlord’s or Tenant’s submitted fair market rental rate, and shall notify Landlord and Tenant thereof.

(iii) The decision of the majority of the three (3) appraisers shall be binding upon Landlord and Tenant. If either Landlord or Tenant fails to appoint an appraiser within the time period specified in Paragraph (d) hereinabove, the appraiser appointed by one of them shall reach a decision based upon the same procedures as set forth above (i.e., by selecting either Landlord’s or Tenant’s submitted fair market rental rate), and shall notify Landlord and Tenant thereof, and such appraiser’s decision shall be binding upon Landlord and Tenant.

(iv) If the two (2) appraisers fail to agree upon and appoint a third appraiser, both appraisers shall be dismissed and the matter to be decided shall be forthwith submitted to arbitration under the provisions of the American Arbitration Association, but based upon the same procedures as set forth above (i.e., by selecting either Landlord’s or Tenant’s submitted fair market rental rate).

(v) The cost of the appraisal (or arbitration if required pursuant to Paragraph (d) (iv) shall be paid by the party whose submitted fair market rental rate is not accepted.

(vi) It is further agreed that no brokerage commission will be due on any renewal of this Lease. Should either party wish to engage a broker to assist with this transaction, said party will pay the cost of the broker.

 

2. EXTERIOR STORAGE

Tenant shall neither store, nor permit to be stored any goods, machinery, merchandise, equipment, or any other items whatsoever in the parking lot or any other common area adjacent to the Building(s) or the Premises. Tenant may only place or store items wholly within its leased Premises.

 

3. TELEMARKETING LIMITATION

If Tenant uses any portion of the Premises for telemarketing operations, Tenant understands and agrees its total number of employees shall not materially adversely impact the Project parking, or usage of the common areas, or exceed that which would be reasonably expected for normal general office use in a facility of this size, and that non-compliance of these issues shall constitute a material breach of this Lease.

 

4. START DATE AMENDMENT

Upon establishing a fixed Commencement and Expiration Date for this Lease, an amendment shall be created defining said dates which will be attached hereto and will become hereof a part of the terms and conditions of this Lease.

 

5. FIRST RIGHT OF REFUSAL

If during the Term of this Lease, Landlord shall desire to lease additional space in the project (hereinafter called the “Offered Space”), Landlord shall submit to Tenant a Notice (hereinafter called the “Notice”) stating that Landlord is marketing the space under certain terms and conditions (the “Offer”) therefore, and offering to Tenant the right to lease the Offered Space on the identical terms as are contained therein. Within fifteen (15) days after the giving of the Notice (hereinafter called the “Offer Acceptance Period”), Tenant shall elect by giving notice to Landlord either to (i) lease the Offered Space on terms and conditions set forth in the Offer or (ii) waive its Right of First Refusal, subject to reinstatement only as provided below. If Tenant shall fail to respond within the Offer Acceptance Period, Tenant shall be deemed to have rejected the Offer. If Tenant declines to accept the Offer, or fails to deliver notice of acceptance of the Offer on or before the expiration of the Offer Acceptance Period, Landlord may proceed to lease the Offered Space to a third party tenant upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Offer. If Landlord is unable to consummate a lease of the Offered Space to a third party tenant on the terms and provisions of the Offer within sixty (60) days following the date on which Tenant declined the Offer, then Tenant’s Right of First Refusal shall be reinstated. If Tenant shall have elected to lease the Offered Space pursuant to the Right of First Refusal, Landlord and Tenant shall promptly proceed in good faith to enter into an amendment to lease for the Offered Space on terms and conditions consistent with the Offer and reasonably satisfactory to the parties. Landlord’s obligations as set forth in this Section shall continue as long as there exists vacant space in the Building.

 


ADDENDUM “B”

 

BY AND BETWEEN:    MV PLAZA, INC.. CALIFORNIA CORPORATION

AS LESSOR; AND:

AS LESSEE

   Cendant Corporation, a Delaware Corporation

TO LEASE DATED:

   July 3, 2003

 

1. No sign, placard, picture, advertisement, name or notice shall be inscribed, displayed or printed or affixed on or to any part of the outside or inside of the Building without the written consent of Lessor not to be unreasonably withheld and subject to lease signage criteria. Lessor shall have the right to remove and destroy any such sign, placard, picture, advertisement, name or notice without notice to and at the expense of Lessee.

All approved signs or lettering on doors shall be printed, painted, affixed or inscribed at the expense of Lessee by a person approved by the Lessor.

Lessee shall not place anything or allow anything to be placed near the glass of any window, door, partition or wall which may appear unsightly from outside the Premises; provided, however, that the Lessor may furnish and install a Building standard window covering at all exterior windows. Lessee shall not without prior written consent of Lessor cause or otherwise install sunscreen on any window.

 

2. The sidewalks, halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators and stairways, driveways, and parking areas shall not be obstructed by lessees or used by them for any purpose other than for ingress and egress from their respective premises.

 

3. Lessee shall not alter any lock or install any new or additional locks or bolts on any doors or windows of the Premises, without prior written consent of Lessor and subsequent delivery of a duplicate key to Lessor.

 

4. The toilet rooms, urinals, wash bowls and other apparatus shall not be used for any purpose other than that for which they were constructed and no foreign substance of any kind whatsoever shall be thrown therein and the expense of any breakage, stoppage, or damage resulting from the violation of this rule shall be borne by the lessee who, or whose employees or invitees shall have caused it.

 

5. Lessee shall not overload the floor of the Premises or in any way deface the Premises or any part thereof.

 

6. Lessee shall not use, keep or permit to be used or kept any foul or noxious gas or substances in the Premises, or permit or suffer the Premises to be occupied or used in a manner offensive or objectionable to the Lessor or other occupants of the Building by reason of noise, odors and/or vibrations, or interfere in any way with other lessees or those having business therein, nor shall any animals or birds be brought in or kept in or about the Premises or the Building

 

7. No cooking except for normal employee meal preparation shall be done or permitted by any Lessee on the Premises, nor shall the Premises be used for washing clothes, for lodging, or for any improper, objectionable or immoral purpose.

 

8. Lessee shall not keep in the Premises or the Building any kerosene, gasoline or inflammable or combustible fluid or material, or use any method of heating or air conditioning other than that supplied or approved in writing by the Lessor.

 

9. Lessor will direct electricians as to where and how telephone and telegraph wires are to be introduced. No boring or cutting for wires will be allowed without the consent of the Lessor. The locations of telephones, call boxes and other office equipment affixed to the Premises shall be subject to the approval of Lessor.

 

10. Lessor reserves the right to exclude or expel from the Building any person who, in the judgment of Lessor, is intoxicated or under the influence of liquor or drugs, or who shall in any manner do any act in violation of any of the rules and regulations of the Building.

 

11. Lessee shall not disturb, solicit, or canvass any occupant of the Building and shall cooperate to prevent same.

 

12. Without the written consent of Lessor, Lessee shall not use the name of the building in connection with or in promoting or advertising the business of Lessee except as Lessee’s address.

 

13. Lessor shall have the right to control and operate the public portions of the Building, and the public facilities, and heating and air conditioning, as well as facilities furnished for the common use of the lessees, in such manner as it deems best for the benefit of the Lessees generally.

 

14.

All garbage and refuse shall be placed by Lessee in the containers at the location prepared by Lessor for refuse collection, in the manner and at the times and places specified by Lessor. Lessee shall not burn any trash or garbage of any kind in or about the Leased Premises or the Business Park. All cardboard boxes must be “broken down” prior to being placed in the trash container. All styrofoam chips must be bagged or otherwise contained prior to placement in the trash container, so as not to constitute a nuisance. Pallets may not be disposed of in the trash bins or enclosures. It is the Lessee’s responsibility to dispose of pallets by alternative means.


 

 

Should any garbage or refuse not be deposited in the manner specified by Lessor, Lessor may after three (3) hours verbal notice to Lessee, take whatever action necessary to correct the infraction at Lessee’s expense.

 

15. No aerial antenna shall be erected on the roof or exterior walls of the Leased Premises, or on the grounds, without in each instance, the written consent of Lessor first being obtained. Any aerial or antennae so installed without such written consent shall be subject to removal by Lessor at any time without notice.

 

16. No loud speakers, televisions, phonographs, radios or other devices shall be used in a manner so as to be heard or seen outside of the Leased Premises or in neighboring space without the prior written consent of Lessor.

 

17. The outside areas immediately adjoining the Leased Premises shall be kept clean and free from dirt and rubbish by the Lessee, to the satisfaction of the Lessor, and Lessee shall not place or permit any obstruction or materials in such areas. No exterior storage shall be allowed.

 

18. Lessee shall use at Lessee’s cost such pest extermination contractors as Lessor may direct and at such intervals as Lessor may require.


ADDENDUM “C”

 

BY AND BETWEEN:

   MV PLAZA, INC., CALIFORNIA CORPORATION

AS LANDLORD; AND:

   Cendant Corporation, a Delaware Corporation

AS TENANT

  

TO LEASE DATED:

   July 3, 2003

ANNUAL RENT ADJUSTMENT

It is intended that the rent will escalate by $0.05 per square foot per month annually.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 13 th month through the last day of the 24 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $206,615.20*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 25 th month through the last day of the 36 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $211,311.00*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 37 th month through the last day of the 48 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $216,006.80*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 49 th month through the last day of the 60 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $220,702.60*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 61 th month through the last day of the 72 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $225,398.40*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 73 th month through the last day of the 84 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $230,094.20*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 85 th month through the last day of the 96 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $234,790.00*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 97 th month through the last day of the 108 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $239,485.80*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

Beginning on the 1 st day of the 109 th month through the last day of the 120 th month, the Base Monthly Rent shall be $244,181.60*, excluding operating expense increases, if any.

*Note : Rent in years 2-10 is subject to adjustment based on actual operating expenses incurred in year 1 in excess of the budget pursuant to Section 2(b) of the Lease.

 

27

Exhibit 10.15

AGREEMENT OF LEASE

between

MMP REALTY, LLC

(the “Lessor”)

and

HFS MOBILITY SERVICES, INC.

(the “Lessee”)

For Premises Located And To Be Located At:

40 Apple Ridge Road

Danbury, Connecticut

Dated: August 11, 1997


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

1.

   DEFINITIONS    1

2.

   DEMISE    12

3.

   USE AND COMPLIANCE    17

4.

   LESSOR’S WORK    19

5.

   FIXED RENT    23

6.

   ADDITIONAL RENT    26

7.

   INSURANCE AND INDEMNITY    28

8.

   LESSOR’S RIGHT OF ENTRY    31

9.

   REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE    32

10.

   ALTERATIONS    34

11.

   DAMAGE AND DESTRUCTION    36

12.

   SIGNS    38

13.

   UTILITIES    38

14.

   EMINENT DOMAIN    39

15.

   ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLETTING    40

16.

   LESSEE’S DEFAULT, REMEDIES    42

17.

   QUIET ENJOYMENT    44

18.

   HOLDING OVER    44

19.

   LESSEE’S PROPERTY    44


20.

   NOTICE    45

21.

   SATELLITE EQUIPMENT    46

22.

   BROKERAGE    47

23.

   PARKING AND ACCESS ROADS    47

24.

   LESSOR’S COVENANTS, REPRESENTATIONS AND INDEMNIFICATION    48

25.

   WAIVER    50

26.

   SUBORDINATION, ATTORNMENT AND NON-DISTURBANCE    50

27.

   ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATE    51

28.

   NOTICE OF LEASE    52

29.

   DEFINITION OF LESSOR    52

30.

   LIMITATION ON LIABILITY    53

31.

   TERMS AND HEADINGS    54

32.

   INVALIDITY    55

33.

   LEGAL FEES    55

34.

   ACCORD AND SATISFACTION    55

35.

   BINDING EFFECT    56

36.

   ENTIRE AGREEMENT AND GOVERNING LAW    56

37.

   GUARANTY OF LEASE    56

38.

   ARBITRATION PROVISIONS    57


THIS AGREEMENT OF LEASE, entered into this 11 day of August, 1997 by and among MMP REALTY, LLC , a Connecticut limited liability company, with an address at 7 Finance Drive, Danbury, Connecticut 06810 (the “Lessor”) and HFS MOBILITY SERVICES, INC , a Delaware corporation having its principal place of business at 40 Apple Ridge Road, Danbury, Connecticut 06810 (the “Lessee”)

W I T N E S S E T H :

 

1. DEFINITIONS .

1.1. As used in this Lease (including all Exhibits attached hereto, all of which shall be deemed to be part of this Lease as fully set forth herein) the following words and phrases shall have the meaning indicated:

(i) “Additional Rent”: All amounts payable by Lessee to Lessor under this Lease other than Fixed Rent, whether or not expressly stated to constitute Additional Rent.

(ii) “Affiliate(s)”: As to any Person, any other person which Controls or is under common Control with, or is Controlled by such Person.

(iii) “Budget”: The budget to be prepared by Lessor with respect to the itemized cost of carrying out Lessor’s Work and Extra Work, and for purposes of calculating Change Costs (as defined in the Work Letter Agreement attached hereto as Exhibit C). The Budget is attached to the Work Letter Agreement as Schedule 1 thereto. Any changes to the


Budget shall be approved in advance by Lessee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed.

(iv) “Building”: The Existing Building as extended pursuant to Lessor’s Work which, pursuant to the Plans and Specifications, shall contain approximately 229,500 rentable square feet (subject to confirmation and adjustment after Substantial Completion as provided in Section 5.2 below).

(v) “Business Day”: Any day other than:

(a) A Saturday or Sunday; or

(b) A federal or a State of Connecticut holiday.

(vi) “Capital Expense(s)”: Any expense incurred with respect to any improvements or repairs carried out or to be carried out at the Premises, or any part thereof, which under generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied by Lessee would be classified as improvements or repairs of a capital nature.

(vii) “Control(s) (led)”: The ability to direct the management, affairs and operation of any entity.

(viii) “Defects”: Any and all faults, deficiencies and/or defects in the design, workmanship or materials constituting Lessor’s Work, Extra Work or any other repair, construction or warranty work which Lessor performs or for which Lessor is responsible under this Lease.

(ix) “Environmental Laws” means: all federal, state and local environmental statutes and ordinances, and any rule or regulation promulgated thereunder, and any order, standard, interim regulations, moratorium, policy or guideline of any federal, state or

 

2


local government, department or agency pertaining thereto, including without limitation the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, the Toxic Substances Control Act, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, the Noise Control Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, the Refuse Act, and all state and local counterparts of related statutes, laws, regulations, and orders and treaties of the United States. Any reference in this Lease to any such Environmental Laws or provision thereof, shall be deemed to include any amendment, extension or successor thereof, whether or not expressly so stated.

(x) “Excusable Delay”: A delay, obstruction or interference in Lessor’s Work caused by any of the following, provided such cause is beyond Lessor’s reasonable control and not caused by Lessor’s negligence or willful act, or the negligence or willful act of Lessor’s agents, employees or contractors, or financial hardship:

(a) Acts of God;

(b) Fire, earthquake, explosion, landslide, lightning, flood or other casualty;

(c) Epidemic;

(d) Strikes or other labor disputes;

(e) Riots, civil disturbance, insurrection, enemy action, or war;

(f) Embargoes or blockades;

 

3


(g) The unavailability of materials specified by Lessee (or comparable substitutes therefor which would not result in any change in either the Plans and Specifications or the Budget) within a reasonable time period or of specialist laborers required to complete specific parts of Lessor’s Work;

(h) Injunctions, orders or any regulations of any Governmental Entity, and any failure of any Governmental Entity or agent to act within any customary time frame;

(i) Unreasonable interference with Lessor’s Work caused by any improvements being carried out by Lessee or Lessee’s contractors, concurrent with Lessor’s Work, provided Lessor has given Lessee immediate notice of any such interference;

(j) Any request for Extra Work made by Lessee and performed by Lessor, which has the effect of delaying Lessor’s Work; or

(k) Temporary interruption or failure of any utilities (unless caused by Lessor) necessary in connection with Lessor’s Work,

provided that in the event of any of the above, Lessor shall give a written notice to Lessee, briefly describing the delay and estimating the duration thereof accompanied by copies of all documentation and other information in Lessor’s possession relating to any such interruption or failure (the “First Delay Notice”) within three (3) Business Days after Lessor receives notice or otherwise becomes aware that the delay has commenced or can be expected to commence. If within five (5) Business Days after the estimated duration of the delay as set out in the First Delay Notice, Lessee shall make a written request to Lessor for additional information with respect to the delay in question, then Lessor shall give a second notice to Lessee (the “Second Delay

 

4


Notice”) within three (3) Business Days which shall specify in as much detail as reasonably practicable (a) the date when the delay began, (b) the cause of the delay and (c) the duration of the delay. The Second Delay Notice shall include any documents and other information in Lessor’s possession relating to the delay, which Lessee reasonably requests. Further, if a delay continues beyond the estimated duration specified in the First Delay Notice, then upon periodic requests by Lessee for information relative to the delay in question, Lessor shall keep Lessee reasonably apprised of the status of the matter and shall furnish Lessee with any documents or information in Lessor’s possession relating thereto. Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, Lessor shall take all actions within Lessor’s reasonable control (which may include the incurring of reasonable expenses by Lessor) to minimize and ameliorate any loss of time due to such delay. In the event that Lessee shall dispute whether the delay is an Excusable Delay, then Lessee shall, within three (3) Business Days after receipt of the First Delay Notice, give Lessor or its attorney written notice of such dispute, and the reasons therefor (the “Dispute Notice”) and failure by Lessee to so notify Lessor or its attorney of any such dispute shall be deemed a waiver by Lessee of Lessee’s right to dispute the same, except insofar as the substance of Lessee’s grounds for any such dispute is a continuing condition during the period of the alleged Excusable Delay, then for so long as the condition and the delay continue, Lessee shall be entitled to serve a Dispute Notice and the prior failure to serve a Dispute Notice shall only be deemed a waiver up to the date on which a Dispute Notice is delivered to Lessor and in any event, such failure shall not affect any other rights of Lessee under the Lease.

(xi) “Existing Building”: The three-story building containing approximately 92,500 rentable square feet located at 40 Apple Ridge Road, Danbury, Connecticut.

 

5


(xii) “Existing Lease”: The lease of the Existing Building dated February 25, 1993 and granted by Seymour R. Powers, Trustee, Alice Powers, Melvyn J. Powers, Union Trust Company and Melvyn J. Powers, Trustees and Pow-Dan II Corporation as “Lessor” to PHH Homequity Corporation as “Lessee” with Seymour R. Powers as “Limited Guarantor”.

(xiii) “Extra Work”: Work which is not within the scope of Lessor’s Work as at the date hereof and which Lessee requests that Lessor perform as Lessor’s Work during the carrying out of the same, whether or not a modification of existing Lessor’s Work, or an addition thereto.

(xiv) “Fee Mortgagee”: Any holder of a loan secured by a mortgage on, or deed of trust with respect to, Lessor’s fee simple estate in the Premises or any part thereof, now or hereafter existing.

(xv) “Final Completion”: Substantial Completion has occurred, and all of the following have also occurred:

(a) All Punch List Work has been completed in a good and workmanlike manner and in accordance with this Lease;

(b) Lessor’s Work is free from Defects;

(c) A permanent and unconditional (or, if conditional, all conditions shall have been satisfied) Certificate of Occupancy shall have been issued with respect to the Building;

 

6


(d) Lessor shall have removed from the Premises all items and materials utilized in the completion of Lessor’s Work, so that the same are clean and suitable for the conduct of Lessee’s business.

(xvi) “Final Completion Date”: Not later than sixty (60) days after the date upon which Substantial Completion occurs, which date shall be extended by one day for each day of Excusable Delay, occurring after the Rent Commencement Date.

(xvii) “Fixed Rent”: The annual rent referred to in Section 5 of this Lease.

(xviii) “Governmental Entity”: Any federal, state, county, village, township or local government or quasi-government agency, department, office, board or bureau having jurisdiction over the Premises or any portion thereof.

(xix) “Initial Term”: A period of ten (10) years, commencing upon the Rent Commencement Date.

(xx) “Laws”: All laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations, orders, restrictions and other requirements of any Governmental Entities, present or future, having jurisdiction over or affecting the Premises or the terms and conditions of this Lease, including, without limitation, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Environmental Laws, as the same may be amended from time to time.

(xxi) “Lease Year”:

(a) The twelve (12) month period commencing on the Rent Commencement Date; and

 

7


(b) Each twelve (12) month period commencing on each anniversary of such date.

(xxii) “Lessee’s Architect”: The architect and/or engineer or other consultants that Lessee may designate from time to time to monitor completion of Lessor’s Work on behalf of Lessee.

(xxiii) “Lessee’s Delay”: A delay, obstruction, or interference in Lessor’s Work caused mainly by any of the following:

(a) Unreasonable interference with Lessor’s Work caused by any improvements being carried out by Lessee p+l0Xor Lessee’s contractors, concurrent with Lessor’s Work; or

(b) Any request for Extra Work made by Lessee and performed by Lessor, which should reasonably and does actually have the effect of delaying Lessor’s Work.

(xxiv) “Lessee’s Fit-Up Credit”: The sum of $250,000.00 to be given by Lessor to Lessee upon the Rent Commencement Date, subject to the provisions of Section 4.6 below.

(xxv) “Lessor’s Architect”: Stephen Griss Associates or such other architect and/or engineer that Lessor may designate from time to time (subject to the approval of Lessee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld) to monitor completion of Lessor’s Work on behalf of Lessor.

(xxvi) “Lessor’s Work”: The extension of the Existing Building to be carried out by Lessor, which improvements are more particularly set out in the Plans and Specifications, copies of which are attached hereto as Exhibit B and made a part hereof, duplicate

 

8


copies of which have been initialed and dated by Lessor and Lessee for identification. Lessor shall carry out Lessor’s Work in accordance with (1) the terms of the Work Letter Agreement attached hereto as Exhibit C and made a part hereof, and the Budget attached thereto, and (2) the Plans and Specifications. Lessor’s Work shall be subject to the approval of Lessee’s Architect. Lessee may request minor changes to Lessor’s Work and such changes shall not constitute Extra Work, but shall be deemed part of Lessor’s Work, so long as there is no change in the overall Budget and such changes would not reasonably be expected to cause a delay in the Substantial Completion Date. If such changes would increase the Budget or cause such a delay in the Substantial Completion Date, Lessee may elect to proceed with such changes, provided it pays any incremental cost therefor and further provided that any additional time required to complete said changes shall be considered Lessee’s Delay for purposes of determining whether the Substantial Completion Date has been met by Lessor and in determining the Rent Commencement Date.

(xxvii) “Permits”: All licenses, permits and other written authorizations necessary to permit the carrying out of Lessor’s Work and the use and occupancy of the Premises by Lessee for the use permitted hereunder upon Substantial Completion thereof, in full compliance with the Laws.

(xxviii) “Person”: A natural person, a partnership, a corporation or any other form of business or legal association or entity.

(xxix) “Premises”: The real property more particularly described in Exhibit A attached hereto and made a part hereof, together with all improvements now or hereafter constructed thereon including, without limitation, the Building.

 

9


(xxx) “Punch List Work”: Minor items of construction, installation, repair, replacement, finish or adjustment constituting part of Lessor’s Work (including Minor Defects) which:

(a) Do not, except to a de minimis extent, impair the use and occupancy of the Premises or the Building for normal business purposes;

(b) Are not required by any Laws or any Permits to be completed as a condition to the use and occupancy thereof; and

(c) Do not arise mainly as a result of the fault or negligence of Lessee, or Lessee’s employees, agents or contractors.

The Punch List Work shall be identified on a floor-by-floor basis and shall be done at Lessor’s expense, and the items to be included as Punch List Work shall be agreed upon jointly by Lessor’s Architect and Lessee’s Architect.

(xxxi) “Real Estate Taxes”: All taxes, assessments, water and sewer rents, and other charges levied upon the ownership of the Premises by any public or quasi-public authority having jurisdiction. Subject to Section 6.7 below, Real Estate Taxes shall not include any inheritance, estate, succession, transfer, gift, franchise, corporation, income or profit tax, or capital levy or taxes, license fees or other charges on the Rent received by Lessor.

(xxxii) “Renewal Term”: Any of the additional terms of five (5) years, in the event that the Tenant exercises Tenant’s option for the same pursuant to the provisions of Section 2.2 below.

(xxxiii) “Rent”: The Fixed Rent and all Additional Rent together.

 

10


(xxxiv) “Rent Commencement Date”: The Substantial Completion Date, or if later, the actual date of Substantial Completion, provided that in the event that Substantial Completion is delayed due mainly to Lessee’s Delay, then the Rent Commencement Date shall be the date on which Substantial Completion would have occurred but for such Lessee’s Delay, as shall be agreed between Lessee’s Architect and Lessor’s Architect.

(xxxv) “Substantial Completion”:

(a) Lessor’s Work has been completed in a good and workmanlike manner and in accordance herewith, including (without limitation) Exhibit B and Exhibit C, except for Punch List Work;

(b) A final and permanent Certificate of occupancy (subject only to the completion of Punch List Work) permitting the use of the Building and the Premises by Lessee has been issued by City of Danbury; and

(c) Lessor’s Architect and Lessee’s Architect have jointly agreed in writing that Substantial Completion has occurred.

(xxxvi) “Substantial Completion Date”: August 1, 1998, which date shall be extended by one (1) day for each day of Excusable Delay.

(xxxvii) “Term”: The Initial Term, together with each exercised Renewal Term.

Certain other words and phrases are defined elsewhere in this Lease, and are indicated by the use of initial capital letters.

 

11


2. DEMISE .

2.1. Subject to the provisions of Section 2.2 below, in consideration of the Rent hereby reserved and the covenants herein contained and on the part of Lessee to be paid, performed and observed, Lessor does hereby demise and lease unto Lessee, and Lessee hereby hires from Lessor, the Premises, for the duration of the Initial Term, unless sooner terminated pursuant to any of the conditions of limitation or other provisions of this Lease or pursuant to law.

2.2. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 2.1 above, it is hereby agreed, stipulated and understood between Lessor and Lessee that this Lease and the obligations of Lessor and Lessee hereunder are expressly conditioned upon Lessor’s compliance with each of the following (the “Conditions Precedent”):

(a) Lessor obtaining good and marketable title (according to the standards of title espoused by the Connecticut Bar Association) to the Premises;

(b) Lessor obtaining a construction loan in an amount of not less than $11,500,000.00 from a bank, insurance company or other such financial institution, for the purpose of carrying out Lessor’s Work (the “Construction Loan”), the commitment for which (the “Construction Loan Commitment”) shall provide for loan documentation containing (inter alia) the following provisions:

 

  (i)

Lessor’s obligation to deliver a performance bond to Fee Mortgagee in an amount not less than $14,375,000.00 (if the Construction Loan Commitment does not require such a bond, Lessor

 

12


 

shall provide such a bond directly to Lessee from a surety reasonably acceptable to Lessee);

 

  (ii) Fee Mortgagee’s waiver of any requirement to escrow real estate taxes or insurance;

 

  (iii) Fee Mortgagee’s (a) acknowledgment of (1) Lessee’s Fit-Up Credit, (2) sums certain to be paid by Lessor to Lessee for carpeting and painting, and (3) any other monies to be paid by Lessor to Lessee in cash, by rent credit or otherwise, and (b) agreement that its lien on the Premises shall be subordinate to each of the foregoing (which, if not paid, may be taken by Lessee as a credit against rent due under the lease); and

 

  (iv) Fee Mortgagee’s agreement that it shall enter into Subordination, Non-disturbance and Attornment Agreements (substantially similar in form to the one to be entered into with Lessee, with appropriate modifications) with any subtenants or assignees of Lessee contemporaneously with lessee’s execution of any such sublease or assignment; and

 

13


(c) Lessor obtaining approval for variance, zoning, parking and all other necessary Permits for the carrying out of Lessor’s Work from any applicable Governmental Entity.

Lessor shall provide Lessee with a title search or title commitment for the Premises (the “Title Commitment”) within five (5) business days from the date this Lease is fully executed. Lessee shall have a period of five (5) business days from its receipt of the Title Commitment to review and approve same. If the status of title to the Premises is not reasonably acceptable to Lessee, Lessee may terminate this Lease by delivering written notice of such termination to Lesser by the end of the second five (5) business day period referenced above. In addition, Lessor shall provide Lessee with a copy of a term sheet for the Construction Loan (the “Term Sheet”) on or before August 28, 1997. The Term Sheet shall outline the general terms of the Construction Loan and shall be subject to customary commercial due diligence by the lender. Lessee shall have a period of five (5) business days from its receipt of the Term Sheet to review and approve same. If the Term Sheet is not reasonably acceptable to Lessee, Lessee may terminate this Lease by delivery of written notice of such termination to Lessor by the end of said five (5) business day period. On or before September 15, 1997, Lessor shall provide Lessee with a copy of the Construction Loan Commitment. If the Construction Loan Commitment is not reasonably acceptable to Lessee, Lessee may terminate this Lease by delivery of written notice of said termination to Lessor by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 1997. The Construction Loan Commitment shall be deemed acceptable to Lessee if it meets the requirements set forth in subparagraph (b) above, contains customary commercial mortgage loan closing requirements (such as survey, title insurance, hazard insurance, opinion letters, borrower entity authorizations and the like), is unconditional (except

 

14


for the above-referenced closing requirements) and provides for a closing date not later than September 22, 1997.

The Conditions Precedent set forth in subparagraphs (a), (b) and (c) above must be satisfied on or before September 22, 1997, time being of the essence, failing which (1) either Lessor or Lessee may terminate this Lease by delivering written notice of such termination to the other in accordance with the provisions of Section 20 below, whereupon this Lease shall be null and void and of no further effect, so that neither Lessor nor Lessee shall have any further rights, duties or obligations hereunder, or (2) if neither party elects to terminate this Lease, Lessee may elect to have this Lease remain in effect, provided, however, that if Substantial Completion shall not have occurred on or prior to August 11, 1998, then for each day that completion of the Conditions Precedent is delayed beyond September 22, 1997, the Completion Delay Penalty (defined in Section 4.1 below) shall be $6,800.00 per day rather than $4,386.00 per day provided for in Section 4.1 below. Notwithstanding Lessee’s election to have this Lease remain in effect, if the Conditions Precedent have not been satisfied by October 31, 1997, either party may terminate this Lease as provided above.

2.3. It is hereby agreed, stipulated and understood that “Lessor” is currently the successor “Lessor” pursuant to the Existing Lease and that “Lessee” is currently the successor “Lessee” pursuant to the Existing Lease and that the Existing Lease with respect to the Existing Building is currently in full force and effect. It is further agreed, stipulated and understood between Lessor and Lessee that:

(a) Upon the Rent Commencement Date, the Existing Lease shall automatically terminate and thereafter be null and void and of no further force or effect, so that

 

15


neither Lessor nor Lessee nor any other party shall have any further rights, duties or obligations thereunder, which shall include (without limitation) the “Limited Guarantor”, and the Guaranty shall thereupon be returned to the Limited Guarantor. Until the Rent Commencement Date, the Existing Lease shall continue in full force and effect upon the terms and conditions therein contained, and as of the Rent Commencement Date, an appropriate apportionment (based upon the number of days in the month) shall be made between the “Rent” payable pursuant to the Existing Lease and the Rent due hereunder; provided that

(b) In the event that prior to the Rent Commencement Date, this Lease shall be terminated pursuant to the provisions of Section 2.2 above, or for any other reason whatsoever, other than in accordance with Section 4.3 below, then the Existing Lease shall continue in full force and effect upon the terms and conditions therein contained, and the provisions of this Lease prior to such termination shall not be construed as in any way modifying the obligations of Lessor and Lessee thereunder.

2.4. Tenant shall have the option to renew this Lease for three (3) consecutive Renewal Terms, each of five (5) years’ duration, provided that:

(a) at the time of the exercise of this option, Tenant shall not be in material default in the performance of any of the terms, occurrences or conditions herein contained with respect to Notices of Default being given hereunder (to the extent required) and which default has not been remedied within any applicable grace period (for purposes hereof, and without limiting the determination of any other default as a “material default”, non-payment of Rent shall be deemed a “material default”);

 

16


(b) Tenant shall exercise this option by notifying Landlord of Tenant’s election to accept the same at least twelve (12) months prior to the expiration of the Initial Term, or, if appropriate, the first Renewal Term and the Second Renewal Term; and

(c) Each Renewal Term shall be on identical terms, occurrences or conditions as contained in this Lease, and the Fixed Rent shall be as set forth in Sections 5.1(c), (d) and (e) below.

 

3. USE AND COMPLIANCE .

3.1. Lessee may use the Premises for any legally permitted use provided that Lessee shall not permit, allow or cause any obnoxious, disturbing or offensive odors, fumes, gas, noise, or any smoke, dust, steam or vapors, or allow unlawful sound or vibration, to originate in or to be emitted from the Building and/or the Premises, or use the Premises in any other manner which would materially detract from the value or character of the Premises or the business park in which the Premises are situated.

3.2. Lessor shall, at Lessor’s sole cost and expense, be responsible for ensuring that portion of the Building and the Premises to be constructed and/or improved (as appropriate) pursuant to Lessor’s Work, as well as any portion of the Existing Building affected by Lessor’s Work, comply with all Laws enacted prior to the Final Completion Date. Provided that Lessor shall comply with said obligation, Lessee shall thereafter be responsible for ensuring that the Premises and the Building remain in compliance with all Laws, and in particular (but without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing), Lessee shall be responsible for ensuring that the Premises and the Building remain in compliance with all Laws where the need for such

 

17


compliance arises as a result of Lessee’s particular use of the Premises and/or the Building, whether or not herein permitted. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the last three years of the Initial Term, the cost of all Capital Expenses necessary to comply with Lessee’s obligations under this Section 3.2 shall be borne 60% by Lessee and 40% by Lessor. In addition, during each exercised Renewal Term, Lessee shall be responsible only for that portion of the cost of such Capital Expenses computed by amortizing such cost over the term allowed by generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and pro-rating said amount over the number of years remaining in the then current Renewal Term. If Lessee subsequently exercises one or more additional Renewal Terms, the pro-ration will continue so as to include those years allocable to such additional Renewal Terms, but only until the amortization period has been fully utilized. For example, if a Capital Expense is incurred in the first year of the first Renewal Term and GAAP amortizes such cost over eight (8) years, then Lessee shall be responsible for l/8th of such cost in each of the four (4) years remaining in the first Renewal Term. If Lessee then exercises the second Renewal Term, it will be responsible for l/8th of such cost in each of the first four (4) years only of the second Renewal Term, for a total of eight (8) years of payments. As an additional example, if the GAAP amortization period is twenty (20) years, and the cost is incurred in the first year of the second Renewal Term, Lessee shall be responsible for l/20th of such cost in each of the four (4) years remaining in the second Renewal Term. If Lessee exercises the third Renewal Term, it will be responsible for l/20th of such cost in each of the five (5) years of the third Renewal Term, so Lessee will have paid 9/20ths of such cost in total. In said example, the remaining unpaid cost (11/20ths) shall be Lessor’s responsibility.

 

18


4. LESSOR’S WORK .

4.1. Lessor, at Lessor’s sole cost and expense shall obtain all Permits required for Lessor’s Work, and assuming the same are duly obtained by Lessor (so that this Lease is not terminated in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.2 above), shall carry out Lessor’s Work in a good and workmanlike manner using first class materials, and in accordance with all Laws, and as expeditiously as reasonably possible, and in any event shall do everything possible (a) to provide Lessee access to the first floor of the extension to the Building on or before May 18, 1998, to the second floor on or before May 25, 1998, to the third floor on or before June 1, 1998, and to the fourth floor on or before June 8, 1998, so that Lessee may carry out Lessee’s fit-up work prior to the Substantial Completion Date (the foregoing dates being referred to individually as an “Access Date” and collectively as the “Access Dates”), (b) to accomplish Substantial Completion on or before the Substantial Completion Date, and (c) to accomplish Final Completion on or before the Final Completion Date. If Lessor fails to meet any of the Access Dates, provided such failure is not caused by Lessee’s Delay, the number of days Lessor is late in meeting any such Access Date shall cause a corresponding reduction in the number of days constituting Excusable Delay to which Lessor would otherwise be entitled, if any. In the event that Substantial Completion shall not have occurred on or prior to August 11, 1998, then for each day thereafter up to Substantial Completion or termination of this Lease pursuant to Section 4.3 below (whichever first occurs) Lessor shall be subject to a penalty (the “Construction Delay Penalty”) of $4,386.00, the aggregate amount of which shall be paid to Lessee by way of an offset against the first installment or installments (as appropriate) of Rent due hereunder or, if this Lease is

 

19


terminated by Lessee, by way of a lump sum payment to Lessee made within five (5) business days after such termination.

4.2. If Lessee shall desire Extra Work, then Lessee shall deliver to Lessor complete information concerning the same, including, where appropriate, all architectural, electrical, mechanical and finishing drawings, specifications and details. Lessor shall arrange for written budget adjustments relating to Extra Work to be prepared (if appropriate) and shall deliver the same to Lessee for Lessee’s approval, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Lessor shall carry out such Extra Work at Lessor’s sole cost and expense provided that Lessor shall not be obligated to carry out any Extra Work, where the budgeted cost thereof, when added to the aggregate cost of all prior Extra Work agreed to by Lessor, would exceed the amount of Lessee’s Fit-Up Credit. If Lessor, in the exercise of Lessor’s sole and absolute discretion, shall agree to carry out Extra Work where the aggregate approved cost of Extra Work would then exceed Lessee’s Fit-Up Credit, then the difference between Lessee’s Fit-Up Credit and the then approved aggregate cost of all Extra Work shall be payable by Lessee to Lessor in appropriate installments, as the Extra Work progresses, as shall be jointly determined by Lessor’s Architect and Lessee’s Architect. Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, if Lessee requests Extra Work which has the effect of reducing the cost of Lessor’s Work, the savings thus produced shall be accounted for as a credit in favor of Lessee against Lessee’s usage of Lessee’s Fit-Up Credit.

4.3. In the event that Lessor shall fail to accomplish Substantial Completion on or before November 1, 1998 (as determined by arbitration in accordance with the rules and procedures of the American Arbitration Association, in case of dispute), then Lessee shall have the right at Lessee’s election, either (a) to perform the work required to achieve Substantial

 

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Completion, such work to be carried out at Lessor’s sole cost and expense, or (b) to terminate, rescind, and cancel this Lease and the Existing Lease by delivering written notice thereof to Lessor, and upon Lessor’s receipt of said notice, this Lease shall terminate and be of no further force and effect and neither Lessor nor Lessee shall have any further rights, duties or obligations hereunder, and the Existing Lease shall terminate on April 30, 1999, as if such date were the original termination date set forth in the Existing Lease.

4.4. In the event that Lessor shall fail to complete the Punch List Work within thirty (30) days of the Final Completion Date, Lessee may, upon three (3) days prior written notice to Lessor, undertake the carrying out of the remaining Punch List Work, the cost thereof to be repaid to Lessee by Lessor within ten (10) days of receipt of written demand therefor. All Punch List Work carried out by Lessor shall be done at reasonable times and in a manner which reasonably minimizes disturbances to and interruptions of Lessee’s business. Lessor shall use overtime for the completion of the Punch List Work at Lessor’s sole cost and expense.

4.5. For the duration of Lessor’s Work and any Punch List Work performed by Lessor, Lessor will carry and will cause Lessor’s contractors or subcontractors to carry workman’s compensation, employer’s liability insurance, general liability insurance with limits of not less than $5,000,000.00 with respect to bodily injury, and property damage insurance with limits of not less than $5,000,000.00, or, if greater, in amounts which are customary and appropriate in undertaking improvements of a nature and extent similar to Lessor’s Work.

4.6. Lessee may, at Lessee’s option, commence improvements within the extended portions of the Building which Lessee intends to carry out (and which are not part of Lessor’s Work) and install furniture, fixtures and equipment (all of the foregoing being referred

 

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to herein as “Lessee’s Fit-Up”) at such time as Lessor’s Work has proceeded sufficiently to permit the same, so that the performance of such work will not materially interfere with Lessor’s Work. Lessor and Lessee hereby agree to use reasonable efforts to mutually coordinate their respective activities. Upon the Rent Commencement Date, Lessee shall be entitled to Lessee’s Fit-Up Credit, which shall be applied against the cost of Lessee’s Fit-Up and paid by way of an offset against the first installment of Fixed Rent and Additional Rent due and payable from and after the Rent Commencement Date. Lessee’s Fit-Up Credit shall be equal to said sum of $250,000.00, less the aggregate approved cost of all Extra Work (including any appropriate adjustment for savings) performed by Lessor pursuant to the provisions of Section 4.2 above.

4.7. Notwithstanding Substantial Completion and the Rent Commencement Date (as agreed upon by Lessor’s Architect and Lessee’s Architect) it is agreed and understood that nothing herein, and no payments made hereunder by Lessee, shall be construed as a waiver by Lessee of any rights which it might otherwise have due to any latent Defects and Lessor agrees, after notice from Lessee, to correct any and all such latent Defects and repair any portion of the Premises damaged as a result thereof, at Lessor’s sole cost and expense, with reasonable speed and diligence, and in a good and workmanlike manner, upon notice thereof.

4.8. It is agreed and understood that Lessor shall carry out Lessor’s Work in such a manner as shall minimize (to the extent reasonably possible) any disturbance of Lessee’s quiet enjoyment of the Existing Building pursuant to the Existing Lease, in accordance with the procedures more particularly described in Exhibit D attached hereto and made a part hereof.

 

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5. FIXED RENT .

5.1. Lessee shall pay, without any offset or deduction of any kind other than as herein expressly provided for, a Fixed Rent, by way of checks made out to the order of Lessor (or as Lessor shall direct) and mailed to Lessor at its office in Danbury, Connecticut, as set forth above, or to such person or address as otherwise from time to time directed by Lessor in writing, as follows:

(a) During the first five (5) Lease Years, commencing upon the Rent Commencement Date, the annual sum of THREE MILLION ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY-SEVEN THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED FIFTY-FIVE AND ZERO/100THS DOLLARS ($3,187,755.00) based on THIRTEEN AND EIGHTY-NINE/100THS DOLLARS ($13.89) per square foot, payable in advance and on the first Business Day of each month, in equal monthly installments of TWO HUNDRED SIXTY-FIVE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED FORTY-SIX AND TWENTY-FIVE/100THS DOLLARS ($265,646.25).

(b) During the second five (5) Lease Years, commencing upon the five (5) year anniversary of the Rent Commencement Date, the annual sum of THREE MILLION TWO HUNDRED EIGHTY-FOUR THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FIVE AND ZERO/100THS DOLLARS ($3,284,145.00), based on FOURTEEN AND THIRTY-ONE/100THS DOLLARS ($14.31) per square foot, payable in advance and on the first Business Day of each month, in equal monthly installments of TWO HUNDRED SEVENTY-THREE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED SEVENTY-EIGHT AND SEVENTY-FIVE/100THS DOLLARS ($273,678.75).

 

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(c) During the first Renewal Term, if appropriate, commencing upon the ten (10) year anniversary of the Rent Commencement Date, the annual sum of THREE MILLION THREE HUNDRED EIGHTY-TWO THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED THIRTY AND ZERO/100THS DOLLARS ($3,382,830.00), based on FOURTEEN AND SEVENTY-FOUR/100THS DOLLARS ($14.74) per square foot, payable in advance and on the first Business Day of each month, in equal monthly installments of TWO HUNDRED EIGHTY-ONE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED TWO AND FIFTY/100THS DOLLARS ($281,902.50).

(d) During the second Renewal Term, if appropriate, commencing upon the fifteen (15) year anniversary of the Rent Commencement Date, the annual sum of THREE MILLION FOUR HUNDRED EIGHTY-THREE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED TEN AND ZERO/100THS DOLLARS ($3,483,810.00), based on FIFTEEN AND EIGHTEEN/100THS DOLLARS ($15.18) per square foot, payable in advance and on the first Business Day of each month, in equal monthly installments of TWO HUNDRED NINETY THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED SEVENTEEN AND FIFTY/100THS DOLLARS ($290,317.50).

(e) During the third Renewal Term, if appropriate, commencing upon the twenty (20) year anniversary of the Rent Commencement Date, the annual sum of THREE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED EIGHTY-NINE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED EIGHTY AND ZERO/100THS DOLLARS ($3,589,380.00), based on FIFTEEN AND SIXTY-FOUR/100THS ($15.64) DOLLARS per square foot, payable in advance and on the first Business Day of each month, in equal monthly installments of TWO HUNDRED NINETY-NINE THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED FIFTEEN AND ZERO/100THS DOLLARS ($299,115.00).

 

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5.2. Following Substantial Completion, Lessor’s Architect and Lessee’s Architect shall deliver to Lessor and Lessee a certification (the “Architect’s Certification”) stating the total rentable square footage of the Building. If Lessor’s Architect and Lessee’s Architect are unable to agree upon the same, then they shall select a third architect who is independent of both Lessor and Lessee and has never been previously employed by, contracted to or otherwise associated with either Lessor or Lessee, and such architect shall select either the rentable square footage proposed by Lessor’s Architect or the rentable square footage proposed by Lessee’s Architect, and the figure so selected shall control for the purpose of calculating Fixed Rent and for any other matter for which the rentable square footage is a factor hereunder. Such architect shall not be permitted to propose rentable square footage which is different from either of those proposed by Lessor’s Architect and Lessee’s Architect. If the Architect’s Certification indicates that the total rentable square footage of the Building is other than 229,500, Lessor and Lessee shall execute an addendum to this Lease acknowledging the actual square footage of the Building and recalculating the Fixed Rent under Section 5.1 to conform to such square footage determination.

5.3. In the event that the Rent Commencement Date shall be other than on the first day of a month, the Fixed Rent for such month shall be due and payable on the Rent Commencement Date on a pro-rata basis for the balance of such month and the Fixed Rent payable with respect to the next month shall be payable by Lessee to Lessor concurrent therewith. A similar apportionment shall be made at the expiration of the first five (5) Lease Years, at the expiration of the Initial Term and at the expiration of the first Renewal Term and the second Renewal Term, to the extent appropriate.

 

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6. ADDITIONAL RENT .

6.1. From and after the Rent Commencement Date, Lessor shall, immediately upon receipt of any Real Estate Tax bills, forward the same to Lessee, and Lessee, after receipt from Lessor of such Real Estate Tax bill(s) with respect to the Premises, shall promptly pay directly to the appropriate Governmental Entity, as Additional Rent hereunder, all Real Estate Taxes and provide Lessor with a receipt from said Governmental Authority evidencing such payment. Lessor shall promptly reimburse Lessee for any interest or late charges incurred by Lessee as a result of Lessor’s failure to promptly deliver such Real Estate Tax bill(s). Appropriate apportionments shall be made as of the Rent Commencement Date, and on the termination of this Lease between Real Estate Taxes payable by Lessee hereunder, and Real Estate Taxes payable by Lessor.

6.2. Lessee shall also pay:

(i) All taxes which may be levied, imposed or assessed against Lessee’s personal property and/or any leasehold improvements made by or on behalf of Lessee following the Rent Commencement Date, Lessee’s leasehold interest, Lessee’s right to occupy the Premises and/or the Building and any other taxes incident to the operation of Lessee’s business therein; and

(ii) Any business license fees required for the operation of Lessee’s business.

6.3. Notwithstanding any possible interpretation or interpretations of the definition of “Real Estate Taxes”, Lessee shall be responsible for payment of any and all assessments which may be levied against the Premises for the installation of a sewer or water line,

 

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or any other such municipal improvement for which such an assessment is made, during the Term, provided that any such assessments may be paid in installments by Lessee over the longest period permitted by the taxing authority, provided further, however, that if any such assessment shall be made towards the end of the Term, Lessee shall pay an equitable allocation of the next installment due after such termination, in such amount as is attributable to the remaining period of Lessee’s occupancy. Subject the foregoing, Lessee shall not be responsible for the payment of any installments becoming due thereafter.

6.4. Notwithstanding any other provision herein contained, Lessor shall be responsible for the full amount of any increase in Real Estate Taxes, where such increase arises as a result of an increase in the assessed value of the Premises, due to any sale, mortgage or refinancing (or similar transaction howsoever effectuated) with respect thereto, or due to any improvements carried out at the Premises by Lessor, which improvements are not made at the request of and/or for the benefit of Lessee.

6.5. Lessee may contest the validity or amount (including the assessed valuation of the premises) of any Real Estate Taxes payable by Lessee hereunder, provided that any such contest is pursued in accordance with any and all applicable Laws, now or hereafter existing. In the event of any such contest, the payment of the remaining part of the Real Estate Taxes may be deferred during the pendency of the same, provided the same is diligently prosecuted, and Lessor agrees, without cost or expense to Lessor, to join such contest and provide reasonable assistance to Lessee upon Lessee’s request, provided that Lessee shall be entitled to receive the full amount of any refund applicable to any portion of the Term. Nothing herein contained, however, shall be construed so as to allow such items to remain unpaid for such length of time as would permit

 

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the Premises, or any part thereof, to be sold by any Governmental Entity for non-payment of Real Estate Taxes. Within thirty (30) days after the due and payable amount of the contested Real Estate Taxes is determined by a final, unappealable judgment, Lessee shall pay the amount so determined, together with any penalties, interest and expense payable therewith.

6.6. In the event that at any time during the Term, the present method of taxation or assessment shall be so changed that the whole or any part of the taxes, assessments, levies, impositions or charges now levied, assessed or imposed on real estate and the improvements thereon shall be discontinued and as a substitute therefor, or in lieu thereof, or as an addition thereto, taxes, assessments, levies, impositions or charges shall be levied, assessed and/or imposed wholly or partially as a capital levy or otherwise upon the rents received from such real estate and the improvements thereon, then such substitute or additional taxes, assessments, levies, impositions or charges, to the extent so levied, assessed or imposed, shall be payable by Lessee, as if the same were expressly defined as the Real Estate Taxes hereunder.

 

7. INSURANCE AND INDEMNITY .

7.1. Throughout the Term, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole cost and expense, maintain or cause to be maintained such insurance coverages as Lessor from time to time reasonably requests and which are generally consistent with insurance coverages required of other tenants in similar buildings and businesses in the Danbury area, and initially Lessee shall maintain the following coverages in the following amounts (the “Required Insurance”):

(i) “All Risk” insurance coverage, on a full replacement cost basis, covering the Building and all other buildings, improvements (including any plate glass) and

 

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fixtures now or hereafter constituting part of the premises (but not including any improvements made by Lessee) written in favor of Lessor and all Fee Mortgagees of which Lessee has notice, as their interests may appear, with Lessor and said Fee Mortgagees named as loss payee.

(ii) Commercial general liability insurance (broad form) with respect to the premises and the conduct and operation of business thereat, on an “occurrence coverage” basis with Lessor and all Fee Mortgagees of which Lessee has notice, named as additional insureds, with limits of not less than FIVE MILLION AND 00/100 ($5,000,000.00) DOLLARS combined single limit for any one occurrence of bodily injury, personal injury or death to any number of persons and for property damage, which coverage may be placed in any combination of primary and umbrella and/or excess policies;

(iii) Fire and extended coverage insurance with respect to any improvements made by Lessee, Lessee’s personal fixtures, furnishings, removable floor coverings, equipment, signs and such other items of Lessee’s property in the Building, in amounts equal to the full replacement value thereof, naming Lessee as the sole loss payee;

(iv) Business loss insurance against loss arising from any casualty hereby insured against, in a maximum amount equal to not less than the Fixed Rent payable hereunder for a period of one (1) year, calculated from the date of the damage or destruction;

(v) Any other insurance required for compliance with any applicable Laws.

7.2. Lessee shall deliver to Lessor binders or certificates evidencing the required insurance at least ten (10) Business Days prior to the Rent Commencement Date. Such insurance may be carried under an umbrella policy, provided that if required by any Fee Mortgagee, such

 

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umbrella policy will be endorsed to provide specific limits of coverage for the Premises. Lessee shall procure and pay for renewals of the required insurance before the expiration thereof, and Lessee shall deliver to Lessor binders or certificates evidencing such renewals within ten (10) days of the expiration of any existing policy. All such policies shall be issued by companies approved by Lessor (which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed) and licensed to do business in the State of Connecticut, and shall contain a provision whereby the same cannot be changed, cancelled or not renewed (including, without limitation, for nonpayment of premium) unless Lessor and all Fee Mortgagees of which Lessee has notice, are given at least ten (10) days’ prior written notice of such change, cancellation or non-renewal. All such policies shall be written on an “occurrence coverage” basis. Lessee shall have no responsibility for maintaining, nor shall Lessee be responsible for any costs incurred in connection with any insurance coverages maintained by Lessor prior to the Rent Commencement Date.

7.3. Lessee hereby covenants and agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Lessor and all Fee Mortgagees from and against any and all loss, cost, liability and expense (including attorneys fees) that may arise from the date hereof up to the termination of this Lease, howsoever and whensoever determined, on account of or arising out of any negligent or intentional act or omission of Lessee or Lessee’s agents, contractors, servants, employees or invitees on or about the Premises.

7.4. Lessor hereby covenants and agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Lessee from and against any loss, cost, liability and expense (including attorneys fees) that may arise from the date hereof up to the termination of this Lease, howsoever and whensoever determined,

 

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on account of or arising out of any negligent or intentional act or omission of Lessor or Lessor’s agents, contractors, servants, employees or invitees on or about the Premises.

7.5. Lessor shall maintain commercial general liability (Lessor’s risk only) with respect to the Premises, on an occurrence form, with limits of not less than $5,000,000.00 combined single limit for any one occurrence arising out of bodily injury, personal injury, death and property damage.

7.6. Lessor agrees that Lessor shall not carry any property insurance with respect to the Building which might bring into play any co-insurance provisions of any property insurance policy maintained by Lessee hereunder, or might otherwise reduce or interfere with the amounts to be collected under any policy of insurance carried by Lessee and required under this Lease.

 

8. LESSOR’S RIGHT OF ENTRY .

8.1. Lessor, all Fee Mortgagees, and their respective agents and representatives, at all reasonable times and upon written notice in advance (except in cases of emergency) may enter the Premises for the purpose of (i) inspection thereof; (ii) making such repairs, replacements, alterations or additions to the Premises, as may be required pursuant to Section 9 below; (iii) exhibiting the Premises to prospective lenders and purchasers, or (iv) exhibiting the Premises to prospective tenants, purchasers or other persons within the last ninety (90) days of the Term, in each case without imposing any extra obligation or obligations upon Lessor, provided that Lessor shall be accompanied by an agent of Lessee at all times (except in cases of emergency) and Lessor shall not have access to any safe areas unless such access is required in the event of an emergency, in which case, Lessee shall be permitted to institute such safeguard

 

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as may be reasonably appropriate. Lessor shall not damage the Premises or unreasonably interfere with the conduct of Lessee’s business or the business of any permitted assignee or subtenant of Lessee in connection with any entry made by Lessor hereunder.

 

9. REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE .

9.1. Lessor, at Lessor’s sole cost and expense, shall repair, maintain and keep in good condition, in accordance with the standards of comparable first-class office space in the Greater Danbury area, all structural elements and the roof of the Building. Lessee shall promptly notify Lessor of any defective condition of the structure or roof of the Building of which Lessee is aware. Following such notice, Lessor shall remedy the condition with diligence and in a workmanlike manner which minimizes any disturbance to the conduct of Lessee’s business and/or the business of any permitted assignee or subtenant of Lessee. In addition, Lessor hereby warrants the building systems installed pursuant to Lessor’s Work and the building systems in the Existing Building (including, without limitation, the HVAC system) for a period of one (1) year from the Rent Commencement Date, and shall be responsible for all repair and maintenance of the same (to the extent required) during such warranty period, and Lessor shall be responsible for balancing the new HVAC system with the existing system within the Existing Building.

9.2. Subject to the obligations of Lessor pursuant to Section 9.1 above, on and after the Rent Commencement Date, Lessee, at Lessee’s sole cost and expense, shall repair and maintain in good condition, in accordance with the standards of comparable first-class office space in the Greater Danbury area, the Building and the Building’s systems and equipment therein including (but not limited to) repair and maintenance of all elevators, HVAC systems, boilers,

 

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mechanical systems, electrical systems, sprinklers, security systems, plumbing systems and associated equipment within the Building. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the cost of all Capital Expenses necessary to comply with Lessee’s obligations under this Section 9.2 shall be allocated between Lessor and Lessee in the same manner as provided in Section 3.2 above.

9.3. Lessee shall at all times keep the hallways and entrances to the Building free and clear of debris, and shall also provide for interior janitorial service (including carpet maintenance), interior painting (and re-painting, where necessary), replacement of lighting ballasts and bulbs, and interior and exterior window cleaning. Lessor shall assign to Lessee or make available for Lessee’s benefit, all warranties, guaranties and service contracts with respect to the Building or any part thereof.

9.4. Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole cost and expense, repair and maintain, in a manner consistent with comparable Class A office buildings, the parking area, access roads, sidewalks, lawns and planting areas at the Premises, which maintenance shall include, as necessary, desirable or appropriate the mowing, landscaping, plowing, sanding and sweeping thereof. With respect to the access roads that do not form a part of the Premises but are within the Park, Lessor shall maintain the same in a manner consistent with that of comparable business parks, including sanding and plowing, and Lessee shall pay Lessee’s pro rata share of the cost thereof to Lessor, as shall be reasonably determined by Lessor.

9.5. Lessee shall not permit, allow or cause any act or deed to be performed or any practice to be adopted or followed on the Premises and/or within the Building which shall cause or be likely to cause injury or damage to any person or to the Premises or to any part thereof. Lessee at all times shall keep the Premises and the Building in a neat and orderly

 

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condition and clean and free from rubbish, dirt and other miscellaneous items. Lessee shall make provision for adequate refuse containers to be placed upon the Premises in areas to be designated by Lessor and shall cause the same to be emptied periodically. Lessee shall deposit all refuse in such containers and shall keep the area around such containers reasonably neat and attractive.

 

10. ALTERATIONS .

10.1. Lessee shall not, without first obtaining Lessor’s written consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed beyond ten (10) days from receipt of Lessee’s written request) make or perform, or permit the making or performance of, any alterations, installations, improvements, additions and/or other physical changes in, to or upon the Building, interior or exterior, or the Premises or any portion thereof (“Alterations”), which shall include any improvements which Lessee proposes to carry out prior to the Rent Commencement Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, minor items of repair or adjustment and non-structural alterations not exceeding a cost of One Hundred Thousand and 00/100 ($100,000.00) Dollars for any one project, and any decorative changes, shall not be deemed “Alterations” for the purposes of this Lease, provided that such minor items of repair are strictly non-structural in nature.

10.2. Notwithstanding the obtaining of Lessor’s consent to any Alterations, all Alterations shall be made and performed (i) at Lessee’s sole cost and expense and (ii) only by contractors or mechanics approved by Lessor, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. It is agreed, stipulated and understood that together with Lessee’s request for Lessor’s consent thereto, Lessee shall submit to Lessor detailed plans and specifications and such other information with respect to the proposed Alterations as Lessor shall reasonably request. Lessee

 

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shall give The Powers Construction Company the right to make a bid to carry out any such Alterations.

10.3. Prior to the commencement of any proposed Alterations, Lessee shall furnish to Lessor duplicate original policies of (or Certificates of Insurance evidencing) worker’s compensation insurance covering all persons employed by Lessee in connection with such Alterations, including those to be employed by all contractors and subcontractors and such policies shall be issued by companies, and shall be in form and amounts, reasonably satisfactory to Lessor and shall be maintained by Lessee or by the applicable contractors or subcontractors, as the case may be, until the completion of such Alterations. Lessee shall also furnish partial waivers of mechanics’ liens for all work performed and paid for in connection with such Alterations, and copies of all necessary permits.

10.4. In the event that any mechanics’ or other lien or any notice of intention to file a lien is filed against the Premises in connection with any Alterations, Lessee shall promptly cause the same to be discharged of record by payment, bond, order of a court of competent jurisdiction or any other method permitted by law, and in any event, within sixty (60) days after receiving notice of the same. Lessee shall indemnify and save Lessor harmless from and against all costs, liabilities, suits, penalties, claims, and demands (including reasonable counsel fees and disbursements) in connection with the commencement and prosecution of the foreclosure of any such mechanics’ or other lien. If Lessee shall fail to comply with the provisions of this Section 10.4, Lessor shall have the option (but not the obligation) of paying and discharging or bonding any such lien, the cost thereof to be payable by Lessee to Lessor within ten (10) days of receiving a bill therefor, as Additional Rent hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessor shall be

 

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responsible for discharging any mechanics’ lien filed against the Premises, where such mechanics’ lien arises out of the carrying out of Lessor’s Work or out of any other work carried out by Lessor pursuant to this Lease in accordance with the provisions of this Section 10.4.

10.5. Notwithstanding Lessor’s approval of plans and specifications for any Alterations, all Alterations shall be made and performed in full compliance with all applicable Laws then in effect and all necessary Permits, and all materials and equipment to be incorporated in the Building as a result of any Alterations shall be of a quality consistent with that of the original Lessor’s Work.

10.6. Approval by Lessor of any plans, specifications or selection of materials by Lessee in connection with any Alterations shall not constitute an assumption of any responsibility by Lessor of any kind, including (but not limited to) as to their accuracy or sufficiency. Lessee shall be solely responsible for such plans, specifications and the selection of materials. Lessee covenants and agrees to indemnify Lessor and hold Lessor harmless of and from any and all claims, costs, suits, damages and liability whatsoever arising out of or as a result of any Alterations performed by Lessee or by Lessee’s contractors, subcontractors, agents or employees, including reasonable attorneys fees for the defense thereof.

 

11. DAMAGE AND DESTRUCTION .

11.1. In the event that the Building is damaged or destroyed by fire or other casualty so that more than one third (1/3) of the rentable square feet of the Building is rendered untenantable, then Lessee may elect to terminate this Lease as of the date of such damage or destruction by written notice to Lessor, given within thirty (30) days after the date of such damage

 

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or destruction. Upon any such termination, Lessee shall quit, surrender and vacate the Premises, and this Lease shall thereupon be rendered void and of no further effect, provided however that such expiration shall be without prejudice to all rights, duties and obligations arising under this Lease prior thereto, so that all Rent shall be paid up to the date of expiration, and any Rent paid by Lessee on account of any period subsequent to such date, shall be promptly returned by Lessor to Lessee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee shall have no right to terminate this Lease under the provisions of this Section 11.1, in the event that the damage or destruction occurred as a result of the willfulness or negligence of Lessee, or of Lessee’s employees or agents.

11.2. In the event that Lessee shall not terminate this Lease pursuant to Section 11.1 above following any such damage or destruction, or in the event that less than one third (1/3) of the rentable square feet of the Building is rendered untenantable, then as promptly as possible, but in any event within one hundred eighty (180) days of the date on which Lessor obtains the insurance proceeds attributable thereto (the “Restoration Commencement Date”), Lessor shall repair and restore the Building to the condition the same was in immediately following Final Completion of Lessor’s Work, or as near as possible thereto, provided that all such repair and restoration shall be subject to the receipt by Lessor of sufficient insurance proceeds, it being hereby agreed and understood that Lessor shall not have any obligation to use any monies other than said insurance proceeds for the purpose of such repair and restoration. In the event that such repair or restoration is not completed within two hundred forty (240) days from the Restoration Commencement Date (except where the same is delayed due to any matter which would constitute Excusable Delay if the same were Lessor’s Work) then Lessee may elect to terminate this Lease in manner set out in Section 11.1 above. During such repair and restoration, the Fixed Rent

 

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payable hereunder shall continue to be due and payable for so long as the same is recovered by Lessee pursuant to the business loss insurance maintained by Lessee pursuant to Section 7.2 (iv) above. If such repair and restoration shall outlast said insurance, then the Fixed Rent payable hereunder shall be prorated, according to that proportion of the Building which remains usable by Lessee for the conduct of its normal business operations.

 

12. SIGNS .

12.1. Provided that Lessee shall comply with all applicable Laws and shall obtain all necessary Permits, Lessee shall be permitted to erect such signage (including, but not limited to, ground monuments) at the Premises as Lessee may deem desirable. In particular, but without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, any signage erected by Lessee shall comply with all special requirements, rules and regulations with respect to height and/or location thereof due to the proximity of Danbury Airport.

 

13. UTILITIES .

13.1. Lessee shall procure for Lessee’s own account and shall pay the cost for the use of all gas, electric, telephone, heat, air conditioning, sewer, water and other utilities consumed in or at the Premises by Lessee during the Initial Term or any Renewal Term. Notwithstanding the foregoing, it shall be the responsibility of Lessor to ensure that all utilities required for the operation of the Building, as hereby contemplated, are lawfully connected, and that the costs and expenses of all such connections are fully paid (other than payment of future use taxes, where appropriate) as of the Rent Commencement Date.

 

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14. EMINENT DOMAIN .

14.1. Lessor and Lessee agree that should all or substantially all (meaning sixty-seven (67%) percent or more) of the Building and/or the Premises be taken (which term when used herein shall include any conveyance made in avoidance or settlement of condemnation or eminent domain proceedings) by any competent Governmental Entity whether by eminent domain or condemnation proceedings (a “Taking”) then at the election of either party made in writing to the other (such election to be made no later than thirty (30) days after such taking), this Lease shall cease and terminate as at the date of the Taking, and the Rent shall be paid up to such date, and thereafter this Lease shall be null and void and of no further effect.

14.2. In the event of a partial Taking which does not result in the termination of this Lease, the amount of Rent payable during the remainder of the Term shall be prorated according to the square footage of the Building still usable by Lessee. If this Lease shall not be terminated as aforesaid, Lessor shall, at Lessor’s expense (but only to the extent of the net award or other compensation available to Lessor for the improvements taken or conveyed, after deducting all expenses in connection with obtaining the same) make all necessary alterations (subject to applicable Laws) so as to constitute the remaining portion of the Building a complete architectural unit, consistent with the quality and character of Lessor’s Work, provided that Lessor shall have no obligations with respect to any Alterations carried out by Lessee, which shall be restored by Lessee, at Lessee’s expense.

14.3. All awards and compensation for any Taking or Partial Taking shall be the property of Lessor, and Lessee hereby assigns to Lessor all of Lessee’s right, title and interest in

 

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and to any and all such awards and compensation, including, without limitation, any award or compensation for the value of the unexpired portion of the Term. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee shall be entitled to claim, prove and receive in the condemnation proceeding, such award or compensation as may be allowed for Lessee’s trade fixtures and all other items of Lessee’s Property and for loss of business, goodwill, moving expenses, depreciation or injury to and cost of removal of stock in trade and the unamortized cost of any Alterations made by Lessee, provided the same does not reduce the award to Lessor.

 

15. ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLETTING .

15.1. Lessee may not sublet or assign all or any part or parts of the Premises without the prior written consent of Lessor, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. If Lessee shall desire to assign or sublet, it shall first submit in writing to Lessor a notice setting forth in reasonable detail:

(i) The identity and the address of the proposed assignee or subtenant (a “Transferee”);

(ii) The nature and character of the business of the proposed Transferee and the proposed use of the Premises by the proposed Transferee;

(iii) Banking, financial and other credit information relating to the proposed Transferee, reasonably sufficient to enable Lessor to determine the proposed Transferee’s financial responsibilities; and

 

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(iv) The effective date of the proposed assignment or subletting. Lessor shall only be able to take the foregoing factors into account for the purpose of granting or withholding consent to an assignment or subletting, and Lessor may not take into account the financial terms contained in any agreement made between Lessee and a Transferee with respect to any proposed assignment or subletting. In the event that Lessor shall fail to respond to a proposed assignment or subletting within fifteen (15) days of notice by Lessee, Lessor shall be deemed to have approved the same.

15.2. In the event of any assignment or subletting made hereunder (whether or not made with the consent of Lessor), then without prejudice to any rights Lessor may have in the event of an unpermitted assignment or sublease, Lessor shall be entitled to twenty-five (25%) percent of any premium received by Lessee (in whatever form, except with respect to the sale of Lessee’s property) pursuant to any such assignment or subletting and, in the case of a subletting, twenty-five (25%) percent of any increase in the rent payable by the subtenant over the Rent reserved hereby, provided however, that Lessee shall be permitted to deduct from the gross profit all reasonable expenses incurred by Lessee in procuring the assignment or subletting, which expenses shall include (without limitation) brokerage fees and legal fees.

15.3. Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, it is agreed and understood that upon prior notification to Lessor, Lessee may, without obtaining Lessor’s consent, sublet all or part of the Premises to any Affiliate and may assign this Lease in connection with any merger, consolidation or sale or transfer of all or substantially all of the assets or stock of Lessee or in connection with any public offering of stock of Lessee on a recognized exchange, provided that either the net worth of any such assignee shall not be materially less than that of Lessee immediately prior to any such transaction, or such assignee’s creditworthiness is reasonably

 

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satisfactory to Lessor, and in any such case, the provisions of Section 15.2 above, if otherwise applicable, shall be inapplicable.

 

16. LESSEE’S DEFAULT, REMEDIES .

16.1. The happening of either one of the following events (an “Event of Default”), shall constitute a breach of this Lease on the part of Lessee:

(i) The failure of Lessee to pay any Rent due hereunder within five (5) days of the due date thereof, and the continued failure to pay the same for five (5) days or more after delivery by Lessor to Lessee of written notice of such failure;

(ii) Default by Lessee in the performance of any non-monetary obligation hereunder, and the continuance of such default for thirty (30) days after Lessor shall have given Lessee a notice specifying the nature of the same, provided, however, that if the curing of any such default cannot reasonably be completed within such thirty (30) day period, no Event of Default shall be deemed to have occurred if Lessee promptly commences to cure and correct such default and thereafter cures the same within a reasonable time, taking into account all relevant circumstances.

16.2. Upon the happening of any Event of Default (i) Lessor, if Lessor shall so elect, may collect each installment of Rent hereunder as and when the same becomes due, or (ii) Lessor or any other person by Lessor’s order may re-enter the Premises and may either elect to terminate this Lease, or not to terminate this Lease but terminate Lessee’s right to possession and occupancy, and relet the premises, or part or parts thereof, to any person, firm or corporation, as the agent of Lessee, for whatever rent Lessor shall obtain, applying the monies obtained from

 

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such re-letting first to the payment of such reasonable expenses as Lessor may incur in the re-entering and re-letting of the Premises, or part or parts thereof, including (but not limited to) all reasonable and necessary repair work, repossession costs, brokerage commissions, legal expenses, attorneys fees and the collection of rent therefrom, and then to the payment of the Rent due hereunder and the fulfillment of all other covenants of Lessee. In the event of a surplus, Lessor shall pay such surplus monies to Lessee. In the case of a deficiency, Lessee shall pay to Lessor an amount equal to such deficiency each month, upon demand therefor.

16.3. After an Event of Default, the acceptance of Rent or failure to re-enter by Lessor shall not be held to be a waiver of Lessor’s right to terminate this Lease, and Lessor may re-enter and take possession of the premises as if no Rent had been accepted after an Event of Default. All of the remedies given to Lessor in this Lease pursuant to an Event of Default by Lessor are in addition to all other rights or remedies to which Lessor may be entitled at law or in equity. All remedies shall be deemed cumulative and the election of one shall not be deemed a waiver of any other or further rights or remedies.

16.4. Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, it is agreed and understood that Lessor shall use commercially reasonable efforts to re-let the Premises to one or more tenants upon vacation thereof by Lessee, following an Event of Default, in order to mitigate damages, and that any such re-letting shall be on commercially reasonable terms and conditions.

16.5. Without prejudice to any of Lessor’s rights and remedies following an Event of Default, as herein contained, or at law, in the event that Lessee shall neglect or fail to perform or observe any of the non-monetary covenants on the part of Lessee herein contained, or if Lessee shall fail to continue to conclusion the action necessary to remedy such an Event of Default, with

 

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diligence or dispatch, Lessor, at Lessor’s option may, following prior notice thereof to Lessee, perform the same for the account of Lessee and all reasonable costs and expenses paid by Lessor for such purpose shall be paid by Lessee within ten (10) Business Days after demand therefor by Lessor, as Additional Rent hereunder.

 

17. QUIET ENJOYMENT .

17.1. So long as Lessee is not in default in the performance of Lessee’s obligations hereunder, Lessee’s quiet and peaceful enjoyment of the Premises shall not be disturbed or interfered with by Lessor or by any Person claiming by, through or under Lessor.

 

18. HOLDING OVER .

18.1. In the event that Lessee shall (with or without the written consent of Lessor endorsed hereon or upon any duplicate hereof) hold over the Premises beyond the expiration of the Term, Lessee shall hold the Premises upon the same terms and under the same stipulations and agreements as are in this Lease contained, except that the monthly Fixed Rent shall be computed at 150% of the last monthly Fixed Rent prior to such holding over, which sum shall constitute liquidated damages payable on account of such holding over, and no holding over by Lessee shall operate to renew this Lease, nor to create any other type of tenancy whatsoever.

 

19. LESSEE’S PROPERTY .

19.1. All furniture, furnishings, trade fixtures, business machines, communications equipment, movable partitions, chandeliers or other lighting fixtures and any other such personal property (collectively “Lessee’s Property”) installed or used by Lessee at the Premises and whether or not attached thereto, shall remain the property of Lessee and shall be

 

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removed at the request of Lessor or at Lessee’s election upon the expiration or earlier termination of the Term, provided that in the event of such removal, Lessee shall repair any damage caused thereby. Any Lessee’s Property not removed in accordance with the provisions of this Section 19 shall become the property of Lessor.

 

20. NOTICE .

20.1. Any and all notices called for or required by any provision of this Lease shall be delivered to the respective parties by certified mail, return receipt requested, at the following addresses:

To the Lessor:

MMP Realty, LLC

7 Finance Drive

Danbury, Connecticut 06810

With a copy to:

Pepe & Hazard LLP

Goodwin Square

Hartford, Connecticut 06103-4302

Attn: Thomas B. Mitchell, Esq.

To the Lessee:

HFS Mobility Services, Inc.

40 Apple Ridge Road

Danbury, Connecticut 06810

Attn: Property Manager

and

HFS Real Estate Division

HFS Incorporated

6 Sylvan Way

Parsippany, New Jersey 07054-0278

Attn: Senior Vice President and General Counsel

 

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With a copy to:

Battle Fowler LLP

75 East 55th Street

New York, New York 10032

Attn: Bradley A. Kaufman, Esq.

Such addresses may be changed by either party by notifying the other party in the above manner. Notices shall be deemed delivered on the date delivery is first attempted, regardless of whether delivery is accepted. Notices to Lessee shall be deemed effective upon attempted delivery at Lessee’s Danbury, Connecticut address.

 

21. SATELLITE EQUIPMENT .

21.1. Lessee shall have access to the roof of the Existing Building and shall have the right to require Lessor to erect thereon a satellite communication dish (to be supplied by Lessee,) together with related accompanying equipment (the “Equipment”). It is agreed and understood that Lessee shall reimburse Lessor for all reasonable costs and expenses incurred by Lessor in installing the Equipment by way of Additional Rent hereunder, payable within ten (10) days of receiving a bill therefor. Notwithstanding the foregoing, prior to the erection of the Equipment, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole cost and expense, engage the services of a structural engineer reasonably satisfactory to Lessor to ensure that the roof of the Existing Building will support the Equipment, and that the structural integrity of the Existing Building shall remain unimpaired by the installation of the Equipment. At the request of Lessee, Lessor may (but without obligation) carry out such alterations to the structure and/or roof of the Existing Building as may be necessary to support any Equipment desired by Lessee, provided that any such work

 

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shall be carried out at the sole cost and expenses of Lessee. Following installation of the Equipment, Lessee shall maintain the same, -at Lessee’s sole cost and expense, and shall, take all measures necessary to ensure that the Equipment is maintained in accordance with all applicable Laws. In the event that Lessee shall cause any damage to the roof of the Existing Building in the exercise of Lessee’s rights of access pursuant to this Section 21.1, Lessee shall promptly inform Lessor, and shall reimburse Lessor all costs and expenses incurred by Lessor in carrying out any repairs necessitated thereby, as Additional Rent hereunder. It is agreed and understood that no satellite equipment or other such equipment shall be erected on the roof of that portion of the building constructed pursuant to Lessor’s Work.

 

22. BROKERAGE .

22.1. Lessor and Lessee represent and warrant, each to the other, that they neither consulted nor negotiated with any broker or finder with respect to the leasing of the Premises, except for Insignia/Rostenberg Doera, whose brokerage fee shall be paid by Lessor, and Lessor and Lessee agree to indemnify and hold the other harmless from any damages, costs and expenses suffered by the other by reason of any breach of the foregoing representation. Lessor shall have no liability for brokerage commissions arising out of any sublease or assignments by Lessee, and Lessee shall and does hereby indemnify Lessor and holds Lessor harmless from any and all liabilities for brokerage commissions arising out of any such sublease or assignment.

 

23. PARKING AND ACCESS ROADS .

23.1. Lessor agrees that at no extra cost to Lessee, and notwithstanding the number of spaces shown on the site plan for the Premises, Lessor will make available for the use

 

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of Lessee, its agents, employees, invitees and licensees a parking area which shall contain a minimum of six (6) parking spaces per 1000 rentable square feet of the Building (1377 total spaces).

23.2. Lessee shall have the exclusive right to use the parking spaces so reserved, subject to compliance with Lessor’s reasonable rules and regulations with respect to the parking area. It is agreed and understood that nothing contained in this Section 23 shall be construed as affecting Lessee’s obligation to maintain and repair said parking area as provided for in Section 9.4 above.

23.3. Lessee agrees that Lessee and Lessee’s agents, employees, invitees, licensees, vendors, suppliers and independent contractors will use such access roads and will operate trucks and trailers in delivering merchandise to and from the Premises upon and over such access roads as are designated therefor by Lessor as a means of ingress to and egress from the Premises. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessor agrees that unless Lessor shall be legally obligated for any reason to change the location of the access roads existing at the date hereof, Lessor shall not change the location or capacity of the access roads without the consent of Lessee.

 

24. LESSOR’S COVENANTS, REPRESENTATIONS AND INDEMNIFICATION .

24.1. Lessor hereby affirmatively covenants and represents, that as of the date hereof:

(i) Lessor has full right, power and authority to execute and perform this Lease and to grant the estate demised hereby.

 

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(ii) As of the date hereof, there are no leases, tenancies, licenses or other rights of present or future occupancy or use, written or oral, for any portion of the Premises, except for the Existing Lease.

(iii) No portion of the Premises is, and Lessor has not received any notice and has no knowledge that any portion of the Premises will be, subject to or affected by (a) any special assessment (whether or not presently a lien thereon) or (b) any condemnation or similar proceeding.

(iv) Lessor has not received any notice that a default or breach exists under any covenant, condition, restriction, right of way or easement affecting the Premises, or any portion thereof, which is to be performed or complied with by the owner of the Premises, and has no knowledge of any fact or condition (including but not limited to Lessee’s use and occupancy of the Premises under the terms and conditions of this Lease) which would constitute such default or breach.

(v) Lessor knows of no existing legal reason why permission for the construction of the Building would not be granted by any relevant Governmental Entity, provided that Lessee hereby acknowledges and understands that the granting of the necessary Permits is and will be subject to the proper exercise of discretion by all such relevant Governmental Entities.

24.2. To the best of Lessor’s knowledge and belief there has not occurred, nor is there presently occurring a release of any hazardous substance (as defined in any Environmental Laws) on, into or beneath the surface of the Premises or any adjacent or contiguous land. For the purposes of this Section, the term “release” shall mean, releasing, spilling, pumping, pouring, emitting, implying, discharging, escaping, leaching, disposing or dumping. Lessor shall provide

 

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Lessee with copies of all environmental assessment reports and other materials pertaining to the environmental condition of the Premises currently in Lessor’s possession or control or, if hereafter acquired by Lessor, promptly upon Lessor’s receipt thereof.

24.3. Lessor has not been served with an order of the Department of Environmental Protection of the State of Connecticut (or any similar Governmental Entity), of noncompliance relating to any enforcement action concerning the generation, processing, handling, treatment, storage, dumping, discharge or transfer of toxic, hazardous or radioactive materials or substances (defined as aforesaid) at, in, on or from the Premises, nor has Lessor ever been investigated in connection with the same at, in, on or from the Premises. To Lessor’s knowledge, no part of the Premises has been used as a municipal dump or land fill.

 

25. WAIVER .

25.1. The failure of either Lessor or Lessee to insist upon strict performance of any of the covenants or conditions of this Lease, shall not be construed as a waiver or relinquishment of any such covenants or conditions, but the same shall be and remain in full force and effect.

 

26. SUBORDINATION, ATTORNMENT AND NON-DISTURBANCE .

26.1. This Lease shall be subject and subordinate to the lien of any mortgage on the Premises, or any part thereof, but only if such mortgage (or a subordination, non-disturbance and attornment agreement entered into for the benefit of Lessee from the holder thereof) shall provide (i) that the Fee Mortgagee holding such mortgage shall not be entitled to terminate this Lease, or any extension or modification thereof, by foreclosure or other means, or join Lessee

 

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as a defendant in any proceeding to enforce or foreclose such mortgage or in any way disturb Lessee’s use and enjoyment of the premises, or the conduct of Lessee’s business or the business of Lessee’s permitted assignee or sub-tenant(s), provided that Lessee, and/or such assignee or subtenant(s) (as the case may be) shall not be in default hereunder beyond any applicable grace period with respect to such default; (ii) that the lien of such mortgage shall not cover any of Lessee’s fixtures, alterations, improvements or other items of Lessee’s property, which, by law, or the terms of this Lease, Lessee is permitted to remove from the Premises; and (iii) such Fee Mortgagee will comply with the terms and conditions of this Lease with respect to the use of insurance proceeds.

26.2. Subject to the provisions of 26.1 above, Lessee agrees that Lessee shall attorn to and recognize any foreclosing Fee Mortgagee or other such successor in interest to Lessor, as Lessee’s landlord hereunder.

 

27. ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATE .

27.1. Within thirty (30) days following any written request by either party, the other party shall execute and deliver a statement, certifying (i) the commencement date of this Lease; (ii) the fact that this Lease is unmodified and in full force and effect (or, if there have been modifications hereto, that this Lease is in full force and effect, as modified, and stating the date and nature of such modifications); (iii) the date to which the Rent has been paid; (iv) the fact that there are no current defaults under this Lease by either Lessor or Lessee, except as specified in such statement, and (v) such other matters as may be reasonably requested. Lessor and Lessee intend, agree and understand that any such statement delivered pursuant to this Section 27.1 may

 

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be relied upon by any third party with an interest or prospective interest in the Premises or this Lease or any part thereof.

 

28. NOTICE OF LEASE .

28.1. At the request of either party, Lessor and Lessee shall execute, in recordable form, a Notice of Lease pursuant to Section 47-19 of the Connecticut General Statutes. All costs and expenses attributable to such request shall be paid by the requesting party.

 

29. DEFINITION OF LESSOR .

29.1. The term “Lessor” as used in this Lease, so far as covenants or obligations on the part of Lessor are concerned, shall be limited to mean and include only the owner or owners at the time in question of the fee title to (or a lessee’s interest in a ground lease of) the premises. In the event of any transfer, assignment or conveyance of any such title or interest, Lessor herein named shall be automatically freed and relieved from and after the date of such transfer, assignment or conveyance of all liability with respect to the performance of any covenants or obligations on the part of Lessor contained in this Lease thereafter to be performed (except as may be attributable to the period preceding said conveyance, unless expressly assumed by the transferee of any such interest) and, without further agreement, the transferee of such title or interest shall be deemed to have assumed and agreed to observe and perform any and all obligations of Lessor hereunder, during such transferee’s ownership of the Premises. Lessor, or any of the parties comprising “Lessor”, may, at any time from and after the Substantial Completion Date, transfer their respective interests in the Premises without the consent of Lessee. Any such transfer prior to the Substantial Completion Date shall be subject to Lessee’s consent,

 

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which may be withheld for any reason or for no reason. Nothing contained in this Section 29.1 shall be deemed to relieve Lessor from (a) Lessor’s obligation to (i) pay any amount due to Lessee from Lessor hereunder where such obligation arises prior to any such transfer and (ii) apply insurance proceeds or condemnation awards in the manner herein specified where such proceeds or awards are obtained with respect to occurrences or takings which are prior to any such transfer, or (b) Lessor’s liability for any fraud or intentional misrepresentation or (c) Lessor’s liability for any misappropriation or misapplication of funds received by Lessor under the Lease, which funds would have to be repaid or reimbursed by Lessee to a third party.

29.2. Lessor hereby stipulates that with respect to any notice or other communication delivered to Lessee pursuant to or in connection with this Lease, Lessee may conclusively act and rely upon such notices or communications given or made by said Melvyn J. Powers, who is hereby designated as having full authority to act on behalf of Lessor, unless and until Lessee shall receive written notice from Lessor to the contrary.

 

30. LIMITATION ON LIABILITY .

30.1. Subject to the provisions of Section 30.2 below, it is hereby understood and agreed that although the parties which together comprise “Lessor” hereunder shall be jointly and severally liable with respect to Lessor’s obligations hereunder, Lessor, or any agent, principal (disclosed or undisclosed) officer, employee, shareholder or partner of Lessor shall have no personal liability hereunder with respect to any of the covenants, conditions or provisions of this Lease. In the event of a breach or default by Lessor with respect to any of Lessor’s obligations hereunder, Lessee shall look solely to the estate and property of Lessor (or any of them) in the

 

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Premises and the income therefrom, for the satisfaction of Lessee’s remedies, including the collection of a judgment (or other judicial process) requiring the payment of money by Lessor, in the event of any such default or breach by Lessor, and no other property or assets of Lessor shall be subject to levy, execution or other enforcement procedure for the satisfaction thereof and it is expressly understood and agreed that Lessor’s liability under the terms, covenants, conditions and obligations of this Lease shall in no event exceed the loss of Lessor’s equity in the Premises. The provisions of this Section 30 shall apply only to the Lessor above named. These provisions are not for the benefit of any insurance company or any other third party. Nothing contained in this Section 30.1 shall be construed as limiting Lessee’s rights under Section 29.1 above, or Lessee’s rights to obtain non-monetary equitable relief pursuant to law.

30.2. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 30.1 above, Lessor’s liability shall not be so limited until such time as Substantial Completion shall have occurred, and in any event, the provisions of Section 30.1 shall have no effect if a judge, jury, arbitrator or other finder of fact in any proceedings brought with respect to any dispute arising out of this Lease shall determine that any loss suffered by Lessee came as a direct result of capricious actions by Lessor.

 

31. TERMS AND HEADINGS .

31.1. The words “Lessor” and “Lessee” as used herein shall include the plural as well as the singular. Words used in any gender include other genders. If there be more than one Lessor or Lessee (i.e. if two of more persons or entities, now or hereafter, shall constitute “Lessor” or “Lessee”) the obligations hereunder imposed upon said Lessor and/or Lessee shall

 

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be joint and several. The section headings contained in this Lease are not a part of this Lease and shall have no effect upon the construction or interpretation of any part or this Lease.

 

32. INVALIDITY .

32.1. The invalidity of any provision of this Lease shall not be deemed to impair or affect in any manner the validity, enforceability or effect of the remainder of this Lease, to the extent such remainder may be given effect in the absence of said invalid provision(s), and, in such event, all of the other provisions of this Lease shall continue in full force and effect as if such invalid provision had never been included herein.

 

33. LEGAL FEES .

33.1. In any legal proceedings (including arbitration proceedings) brought by either Lessor or Lessee with respect to any dispute arising out of this Lease, the prevailing party shall be reimbursed by the other party for the reasonable legal fees incurred by such prevailing party and all reasonable disbursements made in connection therewith.

 

34. ACCORD AND SATISFACTION .

34.1. No payment by Lessee or receipt by Lessor of a lesser amount than the Rent payment herein stipulated shall be deemed to be other than on account of the Rent, nor shall any endorsement or statement on any check (or contained in any letter accompanying any check) be deemed to constitute an accord and satisfaction, and Lessor may accept any such payment of a lesser amount without prejudice to Lessor’s right to recover the balance of the Rent or to pursue any other remedy provided in this Lease, or available at law.

 

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35. BINDING EFFECT .

35.1. This Lease shall inure to the benefit of Lessor and Lessee, and their successors, heirs, personal representatives and permitted assigns, provided that any assignment by Lessee shall be effective only if made in strict accordance with the terms of this Lease. Words importing the singular number include the plural number and vice versa.

 

36. ENTIRE AGREEMENT AND GOVERNING LAW .

36.1. This Lease contains the entire agreement between Lessor and Lessee and all prior negotiations and agreements are merged into this Lease. This Lease may not be changed, modified, terminated or discharged, in whole or in part, nor any of its provisions waived except by a written instrument which (i) expressly refers to this Lease, and (ii) is executed by the party against whom enforcement of such change, modification, termination, discharge or waiver is sought. All Exhibits attached hereto or referred to herein form an integral part of this Lease and are hereby incorporated by reference.

36.2. The laws of the State of Connecticut shall govern and control the validity, interpretation, construction, performance and enforcement of this Lease and shall apply to any disputes or controversies arising out of or pertaining to this Lease.

36.3. This Lease may be executed and delivered by Lessor and Lessee in two or more counterparts, all of which counterparts together shall be one lease.

 

37. GUARANTY OF LEASE .

37.1. The Powers Construction Co. (“Powers Co.”), which is the general contractor for Lessor’s Work, and Melvyn J. Powers, individually, who is the President of

 

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Powers Co. and a member of Lessor, agree to jointly, severally and irrevocably guaranty the performance by Lessor of Lessor’s obligations under this Lease, in accordance with the terms and conditions of that certain Guaranty of this Lease attached hereto as Exhibit E and made a part hereof.

 

38. ARBITRATION PROVISIONS .

38.1. In each case specified in this Lease in which resort to arbitration shall be required or permitted, such arbitration shall be in the city where the Premises are located and conducted in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (such association or any organization successor thereto, the “AAA”) and the provisions of this Lease, provided, however, all arbitrable disputes relating to the performance of any construction or alterations at the Premises shall be in accordance with the Construction Arbitration Rules of the AAA.

38.2. Either party may request arbitration of any matter in dispute wherein arbitration is expressly provided in this Lease as the appropriate remedy. The party requesting arbitration shall do so by giving notice (an “arbitration notice”) to that effect to the other party, specifying in said notice the nature-of the dispute and the name and address of the person designated to act as an arbitrator on its behalf. Within fifteen (15) days after the service of such notice, the other party shall give notice to the first party specifying the name and address of the person designated to act as an arbitrator on its behalf. If the second party fails to notify the first party of the appointment of its arbitrator, as aforesaid, within the time above specified, then the appointment of the second arbitrator shall be made in the same manner as hereinafter provided for

 

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the appointment of a third arbitrator in a case where the two arbitrators appointed hereunder and the parties are unable to agree upon such appointment. The two arbitrators so chosen shall meet within ten (10) days after the second arbitrator is appointed and, if within thirty (30) days after the second arbitrator is appointed, the two arbitrators shall not agree upon the question in dispute, they shall together appoint a third arbitrator. In the event of their being unable to agree upon such appointment within thirty (30) days after the appointment of the second arbitrator, the third arbitrator shall be selected by the parties themselves, if they can agree thereon, within a further period of fifteen (15) days. If the parties do not so agree, then either party, on behalf of both and on notice to the other, may request such appointment by the office of the AAA in the state in which the Premises are located in accordance with its rules then prevailing. If the AAA shall fail to appoint said third arbitrator within fifteen (15) days after such request is made, then either party may apply, on notice to the other, to the Superior Court in the County of Fairfield (or any other court having jurisdiction and exercising functions similar to those now exercised by said Court) for the appointment of such third arbitrator. Such third arbitrator chosen or appointed pursuant to this Section shall be a disinterested person and each arbitrator chosen or appointed shall have at least ten (10) years’ experience in the County of Fairfield in a calling connected with the dispute.

38.3. Neither the arbitrators selected by the parties hereto nor any arbitrator designated by the AAA or court, if any, shall be a relative, employee or former employee, consultant or former consultant of either party or an Affiliate thereof, to resolve the dispute in question.

 

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38.4. The determination of the arbitration (the “Arbitration Determination”) and the award thereon shall be final, conclusive and binding upon Lessor and Lessee and may not be appealed to any court of law or equity, or otherwise. The arbitrators shall be directed to deliver counterpart copies of the Arbitration Determination and award to each of the parties, including each Fee Mortgagee noted in the request for arbitration. In rendering the award, if any, the arbitrators shall not add to, subtract from or otherwise modify the provisions of this Lease. Judgment may be had on the decision and award of the arbitrators so rendered in any court of competent jurisdiction. The arbitrators shall be directed to determine and include in the Arbitration Determination the party that is more correct in such dispute, and the party that is determined to be less correct shall pay the reasonable, actually incurred costs and expenses (including witness fees and reasonable legal fees and disbursements) incurred by the more correct party relating to such arbitration.

38.5. If Lessee gives an arbitration notice, then Lessee shall, to the extent required by a Fee Mortgagee, simultaneously serve a duplicate of the arbitration notice on each Fee Mortgagee who shall have previously furnished its name and address to Lessee in writing. If Lessor fails to appoint an arbitrator within fifteen (15) days after the giving of the arbitration notice by Lessee, such Fee Mortgagee shall have an additional period of ten (10) days within which to appoint the second arbitrator, who shall thereupon be recognized in all respects as if he had been appointed by Lessor. In addition, if any one or more Fee Mortgagees requires, pursuant to any document entered into with Lessor, its own opportunity to appoint an arbitrator, Lessee shall not object to the appointment of such arbitrator, provided Lessee receives notice of such

 

59


requirement and provided a single arbitrator shall be appointed on behalf of Lessor and such Fee Mortgagee.

38.6. The arbitrators shall have the right to retain and consult experts and competent authorities skilled in the matters under arbitration. The arbitrators shall render their award, upon the concurrence of at least two (2) of their number, within sixty (60) days after the appointment of the third arbitrator.

38.7. If for any reason whatsoever the written decision and award of the arbitrators is not rendered within sixty (60) days after the appointment of the third arbitrator, then at any time thereafter before such decision and award is rendered, either party may apply to the Superior Court in the County of Fairfield or to any other court having jurisdiction and exercising the functions similar to those now exercised by such Court, by action, proceeding or otherwise (but not by a new arbitration proceeding) as may be proper to determine the question in dispute consistently with the provisions of this Lease.

38.8. The parties intend that all disputes submitted to arbitration shall be resolved within ninety (90) days after the date the party requesting arbitration delivers an arbitration notice. The parties shall cooperate with scheduling and similar procedural matters to permit the arbitrators to make the Arbitration Determination as expeditiously as possible.

 

60


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Lessor and Lessee have executed and delivered this Lease as of the day and year first above written.

 

LESSOR:

MMP REALTY, LLC

By:

 

/s/ Melvyn J. Powers

 

Melvyn J. Powers

 

Its Manager

Duly Authorized

LESSEE:

HFS MOBILITY SERVICES, INC.

By:

 

/s/ Paul M. McNicol

 

Paul M. McNicol

 

Its Senior Vice President

Duly Authorized

 

61

Exhibit 10.15(a)

FIRST AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT OF LEASE

AGREEMENT made as of the 4 th day of November, 2004, by and between MMP REALTY, LLC , a Connecticut limited liability company having an address at 7 Finance Drive, Danbury, Connecticut 06810 ( “Lessor” ) and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., a Delaware corporation having a principal place of business at 1 Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 ( “Lessee” ).

RECITALS

A. Lessor and Lessee (through its predecessor, HFS Mobility Services, Inc.) are the parties to an Agreement of Lease dated August 11,1997 (the “Lease” ), pursuant to which the Lessor has leased the premises known as 40 Apple Ridge Road, Danbury, Connecticut (the “Leased Premises” ) to the Lessee.

B. The Lessee has requested that the Lessor construct an addition to the Leased Premises in order to enable the Lessee to move its affiliated operations and employees (the “Affiliate” ) currently located at 51-53 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury, Connecticut (the “Kenosia Premises” ) to the Leased Premises.

C. In order to accommodate the Lessee’s request, the Lessor requires that the Lease be amended as provided herein. All capitalized terms used, but not defined, herein shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the Lease.

D. In consideration of the foregoing, the Lessor and Lessee hereby agree to modify the Lease as set froth below.

AGREEMENT

1. The Lessor agrees to construct an approximately 20,000 square foot addition to the Building (the “Addition”) in accordance with the preliminary plans and specifications approved by the Lessee, copies of which are attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof (the “Addition Plans” ). The Lessor shall carry out said work in accordance with the terms of the work letter attached hereto as Exhibit B and made a part hereof, together with the Addition Plans. The work shall be done at the Lessor’s sole cost and expense and the Lessor shall obtain all permits required therefor. The Lessor shall carry out such work in a good and workmanlike manner using new first class materials, in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations, including applicable zoning regulations, and shall use its best efforts to complete said work and obtain a certificate of occupancy for the Addition on or before September 1, 2005 (the actual date of issuance of the certificate of occupancy is referred to herein as the “Addition Occupancy Date” ). The Lessor represents that it has obtained the necessary site plan approval from the Danbury Zoning Commission, a copy of which approval is attached hereto as Exhibit C and made a part hereof. Upon completion of the Addition and issuance of the certificate of occupancy, the Addition shall be deemed part of the Building and the Premises subject to the Lease. Once the actual Addition Occupancy Date has been


determined, the Lessor and the Lessee shall execute a commencement date agreement memorializing said date.

2. The Lessee agrees that upon receipt of notice from the Lessor of the anticipated Addition Occupancy Date, it will use its best efforts to cause the Affiliate to vacate the Kenosia Premises within thirty (30) days following the date that a certificate of occupancy is actually issued for the Addition. The Lessee acknowledges the importance to the Lessor of the Affiliate vacating the Kenosia Premises, as the Kenosia Premises is owned by an entity controlled by the parties who control the Lessor, and said entity has commitments to other prospective tenants to provide occupancy of the Kenosia Premises on or before September 1,2005; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall obligate Lessee to vacate the Kenosia Premises earlier than thirty (30) days following the date upon which the certificate of occupancy is actually issued for the Addition. Simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement, the parties controlling or affiliated with the Lessor have signed an agreement in the form attached hereto and made a part hereof as Exhibit D memorializing the terms of this paragraph 2.

3. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 2 of the Lease to the contrary, the Lessor and the Lessee hereby agree that the Initial Term of the Lease is hereby extended to, but not including, September 1,2015. In addition, the Lessee shall have two consecutive Renewal Terms, each of five (5) years duration. The conditions precedent to the Lessee’s exercise of such Renewal Terms shall be as provided in Section 2.4.

4. The Lessee hereby acknowledges that the current monthly Fixed Rent due and owing under the Lease is Two Hundred Seventy-Three Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Eight and 75/100 Dollars ($273,678.75). Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 5 of the Lease to the contrary, the Lessor and the Lessee hereby agree that monthly Fixed Rent in said amount ($273,678.75) shall be due and payable through the extended period of the Initial Term, which now ends August 31,2015. Commencing on the Addition Occupancy Date, additional Fixed Rent shall be allocated to the Addition in the amount of Twenty-Eight Thousand One Hundred Fifty and 00/100 Dollars ($28,150.00) per month (pro-rated for any partial month) and shall be due and payable in advance on the first Business Day of each month, continuing until August 31,2015. If the Lessee exercises either of the Renewal Terms, the monthly Fixed Rent due for the entire Premises, including the Addition, during the First Renewal Term shall be Three Hundred Twenty-Two Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Eight and 75/100 Dollars ($322,678.75) and the monthly Fixed Rent due during the second Renewal Term shall be Three Hundred Forty-Three Thousand Five Hundred Twelve and 08/100 Dollars ($343,512.08).

5. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 3.2 of the Lease to the contrary, the 60%/40% split between the Lessee and the Lessor of the cost of all Capital Expenses necessary to comply with Lessee’s obligation under Section 3.2, as described therein, shall commence on July 6, 2005 and continue throughout the Initial Term of the Lease, as extended by this Agreement.

6. Except as expressly modified hereby, the terms and conditions of the Lease remain in full force and effect. To the extent the terms of this Agreement are inconsistent with the terms of the Lease, the terms of this Agreement shall control.

 

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7. The Agreement shall be governed by, and interpreted in accordance with, the laws of the State of Connecticut.

8. This Agreement shall be binding upon the Lessor and the Lessee and their respective successors and assigns. This Agreement may be executed and delivered in two (2) or more counterparts, all of which counterparts, when taken together, shall constitute one and the same Agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Lessor and the Lessee have executed this Agreement as of the day and date first above written.

 

LESSOR:

MMP REALTY, LLC
By:  

MMP Management Company, Inc.,

a Connecticut corporation

 

By:

  /s/ Melvyn J. Powers
   

Melvyn J. Powers

   

Its President

LESSEE:

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.

By:

 

/s/ Frank Galus

 

Name:

 

Frank Galus

 

Title:

 

Vice President

 

3

Exhibit 10.15(b)

SECOND AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT OF LEASE

AGREEMENT made as of the 18 th day of April, 2005, by and between MMP REALTY, LLC, a Connecticut limited liability company having an address at 7 Finance Drive, Danbury, Connecticut 06810 (“Lessor”) and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC. , a Delaware corporation having a principal place of business at 1 Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (“Lessee”) .

RECITALS

A. Lessor and Lessee (through its predecessor, HFS Mobility Services, Inc.) are the parties to an Agreement of Lease dated August 11, 1997 (the “Lease” ), pursuant to which the Lessor has leased the premises known as 40 Apple Ridge Road, Danbury, Connecticut (the “Leased Premises” ) to the Lessee.

B. The Lease was amended by First Amendment To Agreement Of Lease dated November 4, 2004 (the “First Amendment”) to accommodate the Lessee’s request that the Lessor construct a two (2) story, 20,000 square foot addition (the “Original Addition”) to the Leased Premises in order to enable the Lessee to move its affiliated operations and employees currently located at 51-53 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury, Connecticut (the “Kenosia Premises”) to the Leased Premises.

C. The Lessee has requested that the Original Addition be increased in size and scope to three (3) stories and 30,000 square feet. The additional 10,000 square feet of space is referred to herein as the “Additional Space” .

D. In order to accommodate the Lessee’s request to add the Additional Space to the Original Addition, the Lessor requires that the Lease and the First Amendment be further amended as provided herein. All capitalized terms used, but not defined, herein shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in the Lease and the First Amendment.

E. In consideration of the foregoing, the Lessor and Lessee hereby agree to modify the Lease and the First Amendment as set forth below.

AGREEMENT

1. The Lessor and the Lessee agree that the Original Addition described in the First Amendment shall be modified from its original two (2) story, 20,000 square foot design so as to consist of a three (3) story structure consisting of approximately 30,000 square feet (the “Expanded Addition” ), as more particularly described on the plans and specifications approved by the Lessee, copies of which are attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof (the “Revised Addition Plans” ). The Lessor shall carry out said work in accordance with the terms of the work letter attached hereto as Exhibit B and made a part hereof, together with the Revised Addition Plans. The work shall be done at the Lessor’s sole cost and expense and the Lessor shall obtain all permits required therefor. The Lessor shall carry out such work in a good and workmanlike manner using


new first class materials, in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations, including applicable zoning regulations, and shall use its best efforts to complete said work and obtain a certificate of occupancy for the Expanded Addition on or before November 1, 2005 (the actual date of issuance of the certificate of occupancy is referred to herein as the “Addition Occupancy Date” ). The Lessor represents that it has obtained the necessary site plan approval from the Danbury Zoning Commission for the Original Addition (a copy of which is attached as Exhibit C to the First Amendment) and will obtain the necessary site plan approval for the Expanded Addition. Upon completion of the Expanded Addition and issuance of the certificate of occupancy, the Expanded Addition shall be (a) deemed part of the “Building” and the “Premises”, as said terms are defined in the Lease, and (b) subject to all of the terms and conditions of the Lease, as modified hereby. Once the actual Addition Occupancy Date has been determined, the Lessor and the Lessee shall execute a commencement date agreement memorializing said date.

2. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 2 of the Lease and Section 3 of the First Amendment to the contrary, the Lessor and the Lessee hereby agree that the Initial Term of the Lease is hereby extended to November 30, 2015. In addition, the Lessee shall have two consecutive renewal term options, each of five (5) years duration. The conditions precedent to the Lessee’s exercise of such renewal terms shall be as provided in Section 2.4 of the Lease.

3. The Lessee hereby acknowledges that the current monthly Fixed Rent due and owing under the Lease is Two Hundred Seventy-Three Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Eight and 75/100 Dollars ($273,678.75). Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 5 of the Lease and Section 4 of the First Amendment to the contrary, the Lessor and the Lessee hereby agree that monthly Fixed Rent in said amount ($273,678.75) shall be due and payable through the extended period of the Initial Term, which now ends November 30, 2015. Commencing on the Addition Occupancy Date, additional Fixed Rent shall be allocated to the Expanded Addition in the amount of Forty-Two Thousand Two Hundred Twenty-Five and 00/100 Dollars ($42,225.00) per month (pro-rated for any partial month) and shall be due and payable in advance on the first Business Day of each month, continuing until and including November 1, 2015. (This additional Fixed Rent consists of the $28,150.00 per month attributable to the Original Addition, plus $14,075.00 per month attributable to the Additional Space added to the Original Addition by this Agreement.) If the Lessee exercises either of the Renewal Terms, the monthly Fixed Rent due for the entire Premises during the First Renewal Term shall be Three Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Three and 75/100 Dollars ($325,903.75), of which Twelve Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Eight and 33/100 Dollars ($12,558.33) is attributable to the Additional Space, and the monthly Fixed Rent due during the second Renewal Term shall be Three Hundred Forty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Three and 75/100 Dollars ($345,903.75), of which Thirteen Thousand Three Hundred Twenty-Five and 00/100 Dollars ($13,325.00) is attributable to the Additional Space.

4. In connection with the construction of the Expanded Addition, the Lessor agrees to provide an additional 150 parking spaces on-site for use by the Lessee.

5. If the Lessor obtains the necessary approvals for the Additional Space, but is unable to obtain the necessary approvals to add the 150 parking spaces, the Lessor shall promptly notify the Lessee of same. In such event, the Lessor shall continue to be obligated to construct the Expanded

 

2


Addition, and the Lessee shall occupy, but shall not be required to pay the Fixed Rate allocable to, the Additional Space.

6. Except as expressly modified hereby, the terms and conditions of the Lease, as amended by the First Amendment, remain in full force and effect. To the extent the terms of this Agreement are inconsistent with the terms of the Lease and/or the First Amendment, the terms of this Agreement shall control.

7. The Agreement shall be governed by, and interpreted in accordance with, the laws of the State of Connecticut.

8. This Agreement shall be binding upon the Lessor and the Lessee and their respective successors and assigns. This Agreement may be executed and delivered in two (2) or more counterparts, all of which counterparts, when taken together, shall constitute one and the same Agreement.

9. The Lessor agrees that it will obtain a letter from the lessor of the Kenosia Premises acknowledging that the addition to the Leased Premises has been increased from 20,000 square feet to 30,000 square feet, such letter to be in the form attached hereto as Exhibit C .

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Lessor and the Lessee have executed this Agreement as of the day and date first above written.

 

LESSOR:

MMP REALTY, LLC
By:  

MMP Management Company, Inc.,

a Connecticut corporation

 

By:

  /s/ Melvyn J. Powers
   

Melvyn J. Powers

   

Its President

[Signatures continued on following page]

 

3


LESSEE:

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.

By:

 

/s/ Frank Galus                    4/15/05

  Name:  

Frank Galus

 

Title:

 

Vice President

 

4

Exhibit 10.16

LEASE AGREEMENT

Between

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC. (Tenant)

and

LIBERTY PROPERTY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP (Landlord)

Premises :

3001 Leadenhall Road

Township of Mount Laurel

County of Burlington

State of New Jersey


LEASE AGREEMENT

INDEX

 

§

 

Section

   Page

1.

  Summary of Terms and Certain Definitions    1

2.

  Premises    2

3.

  Acceptance of Premises    2

4.

  Use; Compliance    3

5.

  Term    4

6.

  Minimum Rent    5

7.

  Operation of Premises; Payment of Expenses    5

8.

  Signs    10

9.

  Alterations and Fixtures    10

10.

  Mechanics’ Liens    11

11.

  Landlord’s Right of Entry    12

12.

  Damage by Fire or Other Casualty    12

13.

  Condemnation    13

14.

  Non-Abatement of Rent    14

15.

  Indemnification    14

16.

  Intentionally Omitted    15

17.

  Quiet Enjoyment    15

18.

  Assignment and Subletting    15

19.

  Subordination; Mortgagee’s Rights    16

20.

  Recording; Estoppel Certificates    17

 

i


21.

   Surrender; Abandoned Property    17

22.

   Curing Tenant’s Defaults    18

23.

   Defaults – Remedies    18

24.

   Representations of Tenant    20

25.

   Liability of Landlord    21

26.

   Interpretation; Definitions    21

27.

   Notices    22

28.

   Building and Premises Improvements    23

29.

   Environmental Information    27

30.

   Brokers    27

31.

   Contingency    28

32.

   Guaranty of Lease    28

33.

   Renewal Options    28

34.

   Miscellaneous    30

35.

   Satellite Dish Antenna    30

36.

   Non-Competition    31

 

EXHIBITS .

Exhibit “A” – Premises

Exhibit “B” – Lease Commencement Certificate

Exhibit “C” – Memorandum of Lease

Exhibit “D” – Tenant Estoppel Certificate

Exhibit “E” – List Building Plans

Exhibit “F” – Specifications

Exhibit “G” – Corporate Guaranty

 

ii


THIS LEASE AGREEMENT (“Lease”) is made by and between LIBERTY PROPERTY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, a Pennsylvania limited partnership (“LANDLORD”) with its address at 65 Valley Stream Parkway, Suite 100, Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355, and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., a Delaware corporation (“ TENANT ”) with an address at 1 Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 and is dated as of the date on which this Lease has been fully executed and delivered by and between Landlord and Tenant.

1. Summary of Terms and Certain Definitions .

(a) “ PREMISES ”: All that tract of land, together with the building and improvements to be constructed thereon, with a street address of 3001 Leadenhall Road, Mount Laurel, New Jersey 08054 ( Section 2 and Exhibit “A” ) .

(b) “ BUILDING ”: The building to be built pursuant to Section 28 consisting of approximately 80,000 rentable square feet (Section 2) .

(c) “ TERM ”: 120 months plus any partial month from the Commencement Date until the first day of the first calendar month during the Term ( Section 5 ).

 

  (i) “COMMENCEMENT DATE ”: Upon Substantial Completion of the improvements to be performed by Landlord (Section 28) .

 

  (ii) EXPIRATION DATE ”: 120 months plus any partial month after Commencement Date subject to Section 33) .

 

  (iii) OPTIONS ”: 1 – 10 year option or 3 – 5 year options to extend the Lease Term (Section 33) .

(d) “MINIMUM RENT ”: Tenant’s Minimum Rent shall be as follows (Section 6), subject to increase as set forth in Section 31:

 

Lease Years

   Annual    Monthly

1-10

   $ 1,188,800.00    $ 99,066.67

Minimum Rent for any extension term shall be determined pursuant to Section 33 .

(e) “ USE ” ( Section 4 ): General office purposes (including loan processing and call center) and any other lawful use.

(f) “SECURITY DEPOSIT” : $0.00.

 

1


(g) CONTENTS : This Lease consists of a Title Page, Index, pages 1 through          containing Sections 1 through 36 and the following, all of which are attached hereto and made a part of this Lease:

 

Exhibits:        

   Exhibit “A” – Premises
   Exhibit “B” – Lease Commencement Certificate
   Exhibit “C” – Memorandum of Lease
   Exhibit “D” – Tenant Estoppel Certificate
   Exhibit “E” – Building Plans
   Exhibit “F” – Specifications
   Exhibit “G” – Corporate Guaranty

2. Premises : Landlord hereby leases to Tenant and Tenant hereby leases from Landlord all that tract of land located at 3001 Leadenhall Road and more fully described by metes and bounds in Exhibit “A” attached hereto (the “Lot”) and outlined in red on Exhibit “A” hereto, together with the building (“BUILDING”) and improvements to be built thereon pursuant to Section 28, including by way of example, not limitation, the lawns, ingress and egress roads, parking lots, parkways, drives, green spaces, parks, driveway areas, sidewalks, drainage facilities, loading areas, and landscaped areas (the Lot, the Building and any other improvements thereon, collectively, the “ PREMISES ”). Landlord and Tenant currently estimate the Building’s rentable square footage to be 80,000. At Landlord’s cost, within 30 days of Substantial Completion (defined below), Landlord shall cause its architect to measure the actual dimensions of the Building and to determine the rentable square footage of the Building in accordance with BOMA Measurement Standard ANSI Z65.1-1996 (the “Measurement Standard”). Such determination shall be subject to review and approval by Tenant, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed. In the event the rentable square footage calculated in accordance with the Measurement Standard differs from the rentable square footage set forth in subsection l(b), the rentable square footage shall be modified by amendment to this Lease and the Minimum Rent shall be modified accordingly pursuant to the same amendment based upon the per rentable square foot Minimum Rent ($14.86).

3. Acceptance of Premises : Tenant has examined and knows the condition of the Premises, streets, sidewalks, parking areas, curbs and access ways adjoining it, visible easements, any surface conditions and the present uses, and Tenant accepts them in the condition in which they now are, without relying on any representation, covenant or warranty by Tenant, except any representation, covenant or warranty expressly set forth in this Lease, and except as to the work to be performed by Landlord or its Agents under this Lease. Tenant’s occupancy of the Premises shall constitute acceptance of such work by Tenant, subject to completion by Landlord of all Punch List (defined below) items, and further subject to all other terms and conditions of this Lease and to latent defects of which Landlord is notified in writing within one (1) year after the Commencement Date.

 

2


4. Use; Compliance :

(a) Permitted Use . Tenant shall occupy and use the Premises for and only for the Use specified in Section l(e) above and in such a manner as is lawful. The Premises is zoned I (Industry).

(b) Compliance . (i) Landlord at its cost:

(aa) shall deliver the Premises to Tenant in compliance with all laws, ordinances, rules, orders, directives, regulations and requirements of all federal, state, county, and municipal governmental authorities and of all insurance bodies, applicable to the Premises (including the Lot and the Building), or any part thereof including without limitation ADA, OSHA, ASHRAE regulations governing indoor air quality, requirements relating to the protection of public health, safety and welfare, and all applicable environmental laws (“Applicable Laws”);

(bb) shall be responsible for compliance with Applicable Laws now in force or which may hereafter be in force with respect to the Premises’ Structural Components (defined in Section 7(d)(ii)) ;

(cc) shall comply with Applicable Laws in force as of the Commencement Date affecting the design, construction and operation of the Premises (to the extent Tenant is not required to comply therewith as provided below) or relating to the performance by Landlord of any duties or obligations to be performed by it hereunder.

(ii) From and after the Commencement Date and during the Term, subject to the terms and conditions of this Lease, Tenant shall comply, at its sole expense (including making any alterations or improvements), with Applicable Laws (including the ADA) which impose any duty upon Landlord or Tenant with respect to Tenant’s particular use or occupancy of the Premises (but excluding Tenant’s use of the Premises to the extent it is consistent with use for general office purposes (including loan processing and call center)) or Tenant’s alteration of, or Tenant’s installations in or upon, the Premises; provided, however, in the event an Applicable Law first effective after the Commencement Date or an interpretation of an Applicable Law first effective after the Commencement Date requires improvements (other than with respect to the Premises’ Structural Components, as defined in Section 7(d)(ii) , which shall be Landlord’s obligation) with which Tenant is not obligated to comply pursuant to this subsection (ii), Landlord shall comply with such requirement in which case Tenant shall pay Landlord the aggregate costs actually paid by Landlord for such improvements amortized on a straight-line basis in equal annual installments over the useful life of the improvements (determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles), for the balance of the Term (including any exercised options). At Landlord’s option and at Tenant’s expense, Landlord may assume Tenant’s compliance obligations under this Section 4(b)(ii) and Tenant shall pay to Landlord all reasonable costs thereof, together with

 

3


interest thereon, as additional rent, provided Tenant has failed to meet such obligations after applicable notice and cure periods.

(c) Environmental . (i) During the Term, Tenant shall comply, at its sole expense, with all Applicable Laws, and all requirements of insurers relating to the treatment, production, storage, handling, transfer, processing, transporting, use, disposal and release of hazardous substances, hazardous mixtures, chemicals, pollutants, petroleum products, toxic or radioactive matter (“Hazardous Substances”) at the Premises (collectively “Environmental Requirements”), except that Tenant shall only be responsible for such compliance required as a result of the acts or omissions of Tenant, its agents, employees, contractors or invitees (“Agents”). Anything in this Lease to the contrary notwithstanding, Tenant’s environmental liability (including without limitation its compliance obligation) under this Lease, shall be limited to liability caused by the acts or omissions of Tenant or its Agents during the Term or the acts of Tenant or its Agents prior to the Term.

(ii) If at any time during the Term the removal, containment, remediation or abatement of any Hazardous Substances located on or in the Premises including the Building is required by any applicable environmental law (except if required due to the acts or omissions of Tenant or its Agents), Landlord shall proceed to remove, contain or abate the Hazardous Substance as required by applicable environmental laws.

(iii) If Tenant is required to deliver same to governmental authorities pursuant to Applicable Law, Tenant shall deliver to Landlord copies of all Material Safety Data Sheets or other written information prepared by manufacturers, importers or suppliers of any such Hazardous Substances. During the Term and for a period of eighteen (18) months thereafter, Tenant shall deliver to Landlord copies of all notices, filings, permits and any other written communications from or to Tenant and any entity regulating any Environmental Requirements with respect to the Premises.

(d) Notices . If at any time during or within eighteen (18) months after the Term, Tenant becomes aware of any claim, action or investigation relating to the Premises and regarding violation or alleged violation of the Environmental Requirements or the ADA by Tenant or its Agents, relating to the Premises, Tenant shall give Landlord written notice, within 15 days after first learning thereof, providing all relevant information in Tenant’s possession and copies of such notices.

5. Term . The Term of this Lease shall commence (the “Commencement Date”) on the date of Substantial Completion (defined in Section 28 ) of the improvements to be constructed by Landlord under Section 28 , but not later than the date Tenant occupies the Premises for the conduct of its business, and shall end at 11:59 p.m. on the last day of the Term (the “Expiration Date”), without the necessity for notice from either party, unless sooner terminated in accordance with the terms hereof. Tenant shall, on or after the date of Substantial Completion (defined in Section 28 ) of the improvements to be constructed by Landlord under Section 28 and prior to the

 

4


Commencement Date, have the right, at Tenant’s own risk, expense and responsibility, to occupy the Premises, provided that in so doing Tenant shall not interfere with or delay the punch-list work to be performed by Landlord pursuant to Section 28 hereof. If Tenant occupies the Premises prior to the Commencement Date, Tenant shall abide by the terms and conditions of this lease, including without limitation, payment of all costs and expenses pursuant to Section 7 and any other additional rent or sums payable by Tenant to Landlord pursuant to this lease and providing the insurance coverages required pursuant to Section 7 , as if the term of this lease had already commenced, except that Tenant shall have no obligation to pay the Minimum Rent or any portion thereof until the Commencement Date. Promptly after the Commencement Date, the Commencement Date and the Expiration Date shall be confirmed pursuant to a lease commencement certificate in the form attached as Exhibit ‘B’ .” If Substantial Completion (defined below) does not occur on or before October 29, 2004 as a result of Tenant Delay (defined below), the Term and Tenant’s obligation to pay rent hereunder shall commence on the date (but not prior to October 29, 2004) Substantial Completion of the Premises would have occurred but for such Tenant Delay.

6. Minimum Rent . Tenant agrees to pay to Landlord the Minimum Rent in equal monthly installments in the amounts set forth in Section 1(d) , in advance, on the first day of each calendar month during the Term, without notice, demand or setoff, at Landlord’s address designated at the beginning of this Lease, unless Landlord designates otherwise in writing upon 30 days notice. If the Commencement Date falls on a day other than the first day of a calendar month, the rent shall be apportioned pro rata on a per diem basis for the period from the Commencement Date until the first day of the following calendar month and shall be paid on or before the Commencement Date. As used in this Lease, the term “ Lease Year ” means the period from the Commencement Date through the succeeding 12 full calendar months (including for the first Lease Year any partial month from the Commencement Date until the first day of the first full calendar month) and each successive 12 month period thereafter during the Term.

7. Operation of Property; Payment of Expenses .

(a) Payment of Expenses . Costs and expenses in connection with the ownership, operation, repair and maintenance of the Premises shall be paid in accordance with the terms of this Section 7 . Except as otherwise expressly set forth herein, Tenant shall pay all costs and expenses in connection with the ownership, operation, repair and maintenance of the Premises.

(b) Impositions . As used in this Lease the term “impositions” refers to all levies, taxes (including sales taxes and gross receipt taxes) and assessments, which are applicable to the Term and the Premises, and which are imposed by any authority or under any law, ordinance or regulation thereof, or pursuant to any recorded covenants or agreements, upon or with respect to the Premises or any part thereof, or any improvements thereto. Tenant shall pay to Landlord with the monthly payment of Minimum Rent any imposition imposed directly upon this Lease or the Rent (defined in Section 7(g) ) or amounts payable by any subtenants or other occupants of the Premises,

 

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or against Landlord because of Landlord’s estate or interest herein. Tenant shall pay to the local real estate tax office all real estate taxes and assessments and shall furnish to Landlord, not later than 10 days prior to the last day they may be paid without penalty, receipts or other evidence of payment thereof reasonably satisfactory to Landlord. Landlord or Tenant at their respective options shall have the right to contest any imposition, provided such contest does not operate to postpone payment of such taxes, is conducted in good faith and in accordance with Applicable Law and that such contest will not cause a lien to be placed on the Premises. Any such contest shall be done on a contingency fee basis and the cost of the contest shall be paid from the proceeds of any contest award. Notwithstanding whether Landlord or Tenant commences contest of any imposition, Landlord or Tenant shall be entitled to the proceeds or benefit thereof according to the extent to which the parties are responsible for the payment of such imposition under this Lease.

Nothing herein contained shall be interpreted as requiring (a) Tenant to pay any federal, state or local income, franchise, gift, transfer, excise, estate, inheritance, excess profits, or corporate capital stock tax imposed or assessed upon Landlord, unless such tax or any similar tax is levied or assessed in lieu of all or any part of any imposition or an increase in any imposition; or (b) Tenant to be responsible for any imposition that is not related to the Premises and the Term.

(c) Insurance .

(i) Property . Tenant at its expense shall keep in effect insurance against loss or damage to the Premises including the Building by fire and such other casualties as may be included within fire, extended coverage and ISO special form insurance covering the full replacement cost of the Building (including demolition, increased cost of construction, boiler and machinery, flood (including backup of sewers and drains), earthquake and coverage of Tenant’s personal property in, and any alterations by Tenant to, the Premises). Landlord and any mortgagee of Landlord shall be named as additional insured and loss payee with respect to the Premises (but not with respect to coverage of Tenant’s personal property in, and any alterations by Tenant to, the Premises). Such policy or policies (for Landlord’s property) shall be issued in industry-standard form or otherwise in form reasonably acceptable to Landlord. The insurer shall be a responsible insurance carrier which is authorized to issue such insurance and licensed to do business in the state in which the Premises is located and which has at all times during the Term a rating of no less than A-VI in the most current edition of Best’s Insurance Reports. Tenant shall deliver to Landlord on or before the Commencement Date, and subsequently renewals of, a certificate of insurance evidencing such coverage.

(ii) Liability . Tenant at its expense shall keep in effect commercial general liability insurance with respect to the Premises, including contractual liability insurance, with such limits of liability for bodily injury (including death) and property damage to be not less than a combined single limit of $2,000,000 per occurrence and a general aggregate limit of not less than $5,000,000 (which aggregate limit shall apply separately to each of Tenant’s locations if more than the Premises); however, such

 

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limits shall not limit the liability of Tenant hereunder. The policy of commercial general liability insurance also shall name Landlord and Landlord’s agent (if timely communicated by Landlord to Tenant in writing) as additional insured parties with respect to the Premises, shall be written on an “occurrence” basis and not on a “claims made” basis, shall provide that it is primary with respect to any claims for which Tenant is responsible, shall provide that it shall not be cancelable or reduced without at least 30 days prior written notice to Landlord and shall be issued in industry-standard form or otherwise in form reasonably satisfactory to Landlord. The insurer shall be a responsible insurance carrier which is authorized to issue such insurance and licensed to do business in the state in which the Premises is located and which has at all times during the Term a rating of no less than A-VI in the most current edition of Best’s Insurance Reports. Tenant shall deliver to Landlord on or before the Commencement Date, and subsequently renewals of, a certificate of insurance evidencing such coverage and the waiver of subrogation described below.

Landlord, at its own expense, shall maintain commercial general liability (including contractual liability coverage applicable to indemnification provisions of this Lease) covering claims for personal and bodily injury and property damage in an amount not less than $2,000,000 per occurrence combined single limit and a general aggregate limit of not less than $5,000,000. Landlord’s insurance shall be primary for all claims for which Landlord is responsible.

(iii) Waiver of Subrogation . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Lease to the contrary, Landlord and Tenant hereby release each other and waive any and all claims and rights of recovery that they may have against each other and their respective members, officers, directors, partners, shareholders, employees, agents and representatives for loss or damages covered by fire, extended coverage, “all risk” or similar policies maintained (or required to be maintained) by such party under this Lease even if such loss or damage shall be brought about by the fault or negligence of the other party or its Agents. Landlord and Tenant shall have included in their respective property insurance policies waivers of their respective insurers’ right of subrogation against the other party. Tenant assumes all risk of damage of Tenant’s property within the Premises, including any loss or damage caused by water leakage, fire, windstorm, explosion, theft or other cause, unless such loss or damage is caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Landlord or its Agents.

(iv) Increase of Premiums . Tenant agrees not to do anything or fail to do anything which will increase the cost of Landlord’s insurance or which will prevent Landlord from procuring policies (including commercial general liability) from companies and in a form reasonably satisfactory to Landlord. If any breach of the preceding sentence by Tenant causes the rate of Landlord’s insurance to be increased, Tenant shall pay the amount of such increase as additional rent promptly upon being billed.

 

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(d) Repairs and Maintenance .

(i) Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Lease, during the Term, Tenant at its sole expense shall maintain the Premises in good order and condition, make all repairs necessary to maintain such condition, whether such repairs are interior or exterior, and repair any damage to the Premises. All repairs made by Tenant shall utilize materials and equipment which are comparable to those originally used in constructing the Building. The Term “repair” when used in this Subsection (d) shall include replacements and renewals when necessary. Tenant at its cost and expense shall maintain and repair following initial installation by Landlord pursuant to Section 28, the HVAC, mechanical, fire sprinklers, electrical (including connectivity with Bishop’s Gate I, II and IV), utilities/sewer and plumbing systems serving the Premises (collectively the “Building Systems”), and the roof (including the roof membrane) pursuant to service contracts acceptable to Landlord (such acceptance not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed). Tenant shall also be responsible to maintain and repair the roads and parking lots following Landlord’s initial installation thereof. Tenant shall also be responsible to provide for landscaping (pursuant to a service contract acceptable to Landlord, such acceptance not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed) and snow removal services. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event Tenant is required to replace the roof and/or the HVAC and/or the mechanical equipment serving the Building, Landlord shall replace same if reasonably necessary, in which case Tenant shall reimburse Landlord the aggregate cost actually paid by Landlord for the replaced item amortized on a straight-line basis in equal annual installments over the useful life of the item (determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles), for the balance of the Term (including any exercised renewal options). Landlord shall deliver warranties for Building Systems and roof and all other manufacturers’ warranties to Tenant (giving Tenant the full benefit thereof) at the time of Substantial Completion. The roof warranty shall be an industry-standard 10 year warranty in accordance with the Specifications (defined below); provided that if available and desired by Tenant, such warranty will be upgraded at Tenant’s expense. Prior to selection of the roofing contractor, a copy of the roof warranty offered shall be delivered to Tenant for its review.

(ii) Landlord shall, at its sole cost and expense, maintain, repair and replace the structural components, exterior walls, window fenestration, load bearing interior walls, foundation, and columns of the Building (collectively “Structural Components”); provided that Landlord shall have no obligation to make any repair until Landlord receives written notice of the need for such repair.

(iii) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, replacements of the Building Systems and the roof or repairs and replacements of the Structural Components made necessary by the negligence or willful misconduct of Tenant or its Agents or Tenant’s failure to maintain the Building Systems and/or roof in accordance with the terms of any applicable warranty, shall be made at the sole expense of Tenant to the extent not covered by any applicable warranty or insurance proceeds paid to Landlord.

 

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(iv) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, repairs and replacements of the Premises made necessary by the negligence or willful misconduct of Landlord or its Agents shall be made at the sole expense of Landlord to the extent not covered by any applicable warranty or insurance required to be or actually maintained by Tenant hereunder.

(e) Utilities . Landlord at its expense shall bring water, sewer, gas, electric, heat, power, telephone and other communication services to the Premises pursuant to the terms of Section 28 and Exhibits E and F hereto, and Tenant shall pay for its use of such services and the maintenance and repair thereof pursuant to this Lease. Landlord shall be responsible at its cost and expense to maintain, repair and replace electric, water, sewer and gas lines from the street to the Building. Tenant shall be responsible at its cost to maintain, repair and replace electric, water, sewer and gas lines inside the Building. Tenant shall pay for the use of such utilities directly to the appropriate supplier. Landlord represents and warrants that the electricity it provides to the Building will have a minimum capacity equal to that contemplated in Exhibit F .

Landlord and Tenant hereby acknowledge that legislative/regulatory changes have been proposed and may be enacted or promulgated during the Term which shall affect the utility industry and may provide Landlord and Tenant with opportunities to reduce charges for electric service through direct access to sources of power other than the current electric utility. In the event Tenant desires to purchase power directly from these alternative sources during the Term, Tenant shall have the right and option to do so, and Landlord shall use reasonable efforts to assist Tenant in connection therewith, provided that such direct purchase shall not result in capital costs to be incurred by Landlord.

(f) Landlord shall not be responsible or liable for any interruption in services hereinabove identified nor shall such interruption affect the continuation or validity of this Lease; provided, however, if as a result of the negligence or willful misconduct of Landlord or its Agents, such services are interrupted and any portion of the Building becomes unusable by Tenant for the conduct of its business for five (5) consecutive business days by reason thereof, Rent and other charges payable hereunder shall abate thereafter until such portion of the Building becomes usable by Tenant for the conduct of its business, such abatement to be in the proportion that the unusable square footage bears to the total square footage of the Building.

(g) Building Systems . Landlord shall deliver all Building Systems and Structural Components in good working order and repair and in compliance with Applicable Laws on the Commencement Date. To the extent not covered by applicable warranties to be delivered to Tenant pursuant to Section 7(d)(i) , Landlord will, at no charge to Tenant, repair any defects in the Building Systems not caused by the acts or omissions of Tenant or its Agents for a period of one (1) year after the Commencement Date.

(h) “ Rent ”. The term “ RENT ” as used in this Lease means the Minimum Rent and any other additional rent or sums payable by Tenant to Landlord

 

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pursuant to this Lease, all of which shall be deemed rent for purposes of Landlord’s rights and remedies with respect thereto. Tenant shall pay all Rent to Landlord within 30 days after Tenant is billed, unless otherwise provided in this Lease. Anything to the contrary contained in this Lease notwithstanding, with respect to any payment which Tenant is required to make under this Lease (other than a monthly recurring charge), the due date for such payment shall be 30 days after Tenant’s receipt of an invoice with reasonable supporting documentation.

(i) With respect to all work performed by Landlord under this Lease (after the initial improvements), Landlord agrees that without the prior written consent of Tenant, such work shall not (i) reduce the floor area of the Premises, (ii) affect Tenant’s layout (including access to the Premises), or (iii) materially and unreasonably interfere with Tenant’s use and enjoyment of the Premises. Furthermore, any pipes or conduits that may be installed by Landlord in the Premises shall be installed above the ceiling, below the floor or concealed or boxed in a manner consistent with Tenant’s decor. All such work shall be performed by Landlord in such a way as to minimize disruption to Tenant’s business, and any damage caused to the Premises (including Tenant’s decor) shall be repaired by Landlord at its sole cost and expense.

(j) Parking . At its sole cost and expense and pursuant to the Building Plans (defined below), Landlord shall deliver the Premises with a parking lot for Tenant’s use consisting of 7 parking spaces per 1000 square feet of rentable space in the Building, subject to the requirements of any municipal approvals received by Landlord with respect to the Premises and the Building.

8. Signs . Landlord, at Landlord’s expense, will place Tenant’s name and suite number on the Building standard sign and on or beside the entrance door to the Premises and shall place a monument sign on the Premises consistent with Landlord’s obligations under Exhibits F and G hereto. Except for signs which are located wholly within the interior of the Premises and not visible from the exterior of the Premises, no signs shall be placed on the Premises without the prior written consent of Landlord which shall not be unreasonably withheld. Landlord hereby consents to the signage included on the Exhibits to this Lease and no further consent shall be required with respect thereto. All signs installed by Tenant shall be maintained by Tenant in good condition and Tenant shall remove all such signs (except for any monument signs) at the termination of this Lease and shall repair any damage caused by such installation, existence or removal. Landlord, at Landlord’s expense, will put Tenant’s name on the Building, provided such signage is in compliance with Applicable Laws and, if not included as an Exhibit to this Lease, subject to Landlord’s prior written consent, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.

9. Alterations and Fixtures .

(a) Subject to Section 10 , Tenant shall have the right to install its trade fixtures in the Premises, provided that no such installation or removal thereof shall affect any structural portion of the Premises nor any utility lines to the Building. At the

 

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expiration or termination of this Lease and at the option of Landlord or Tenant, Tenant shall remove such installation(s) and, in the event of such removal, Tenant shall repair any damage caused by such installation or removal; if Tenant, with Landlord’s written consent, elects not to remove such installation(s) at the expiration or termination of this Lease, all such installations shall remain on the Premises and become the property of Landlord without payment by Landlord. Anything in this Lease to the contrary notwithstanding, Tenant shall not be required to remove any (i) improvements performed by Landlord pursuant to the Building Plans (defined below), (ii) subsequent tenant improvements for which Landlord did not require such removal at the time of Tenant’s request for non-removal thereof (as set forth in subsection (b) below), or (ii) security systems, lighting or light fixtures, wall coverings, drapes, blinds, or other window coverings, carpet or other floor covering.

(b) Except for non-structural changes which do not exceed $25,000 per project and do not materially and adversely affect the value of the Premises, Tenant shall not make or permit to be made any alterations to the Premises without Landlord’s prior written consent which shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, and which shall be granted or denied within 5 business days of the date Landlord receives written request therefor accompanied by all required plans and specifications therefor. If third party architectural/engineering review is reasonably required in order for Landlord to evaluate such proposed alterations, Tenant shall pay the reasonable costs of any required review. In making any alterations, (i) Tenant shall deliver to Landlord the plans, specifications and necessary permits, together with certificates evidencing that Tenant’s contractors and subcontractors have adequate insurance coverage naming Landlord and Landlord’s agent as additional insureds, at least 10 days prior to commencement thereof, (ii) such alterations shall not impair the structural strength of the Building or reduce the value of the Premises or affect any utility lines to the Building, and (iii) Tenant shall comply with Section 10 . Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Lease, all alterations to the Premises by Tenant shall be the property of Tenant until the expiration or termination of this Lease; at that time all such alterations (except for moveable furniture, fixtures and equipment and except for any trade fixtures) shall remain on the Premises and become the property of Landlord without payment by Landlord unless Landlord shall have given written notice to Tenant to remove the same at the time Tenant requested consent therefor if Tenant requested nonremoval in writing, in which event Tenant will remove such alterations and repair any resulting damage. At Tenant’s request prior to Tenant making any alterations, Landlord shall, within 5 business days of receipt of written request by Tenant that it be permitted to leave such alterations on the Premises at the expiration of termination of the Lease, notify Tenant in writing whether Tenant is required to remove such alterations at the expiration or termination of this Lease.

10. Mechanics’ Liens . Tenant shall pay promptly any contractors and materialmen not hired by Landlord or its Agents who supply labor, work or materials to Tenant at the Premises and shall take all steps permitted by law in order to avoid the imposition of any mechanic’s lien upon all or any portion of the Premises Should any such lien be filed for work performed for Tenant other than by Landlord or Landlord’s

 

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Agents, Tenant shall bond against or discharge the same within 30 days after Tenant has notice that the lien or claim is filed regardless of the validity of such lien. Nothing in this Lease is intended to authorize Tenant to do or cause any work to be done or materials to be supplied for the account of Landlord. All work performed by Tenant shall be solely for Tenant’s account and at Tenant’s risk and expense. Throughout this Lease the term “ mechanic’s lien ” is used to include any lien, encumbrance or charge levied or imposed upon all or any portion of, interest in or income from the Premises on account of any mechanic’s, laborer’s, materialman’s or construction lien or arising out of any debt or liability to or any claim of any contractor, mechanic, supplier, materialman or laborer not hired by Landlord or its Agents.

11. Landlord’s Right of Entry .

Tenant shall permit Landlord and its Agents to enter the Premises at all reasonable times following reasonable notice (except in the event of an emergency), for the purpose of carrying out its obligations under this Lease including maintenance or making repairs, alterations or additions as well as to inspect the Premises for the performance of Landlord’s obligations hereunder, exhibit the Premises for the purpose of sale or mortgage and, during the last 12 months of the Term, to exhibit the Premises to any prospective tenant. Landlord will make reasonable efforts not to inconvenience Tenant in exercising the foregoing rights, but shall not be liable for any loss of occupation or quiet enjoyment thereby occasioned. In the event that Landlord or its Agents are grossly negligent or guilty of willful misconduct in the exercise of such rights as a result of which any portion of the Premises becomes unusable by Tenant for the conduct of its business for five (5) consecutive business days, Rent and other charges payable hereunder shall abate thereafter until such portion of the Premises becomes usable by Tenant for the conduct of its business, such abatement to be in the proportion that the unusable square footage bears to the total square footage of the Premises. If requested by Tenant, a representative of Tenant shall accompany Landlord and its Agent on any such entry, except in the event of an emergency.

12. Damage by Fire or Other Casualty .

(a) If the Premises or Building shall be damaged or destroyed by fire or other casualty, Tenant promptly shall notify Landlord and Landlord, subject to the conditions set forth in this Section 12 , shall repair such damage and restore the Premises to substantially the same condition in which they were immediately prior to such damage or destruction, but not including the repair, restoration or replacement of the fixtures or alterations installed by Tenant. Landlord shall notify Tenant in writing, within 30 days after the date of the casualty, if Landlord anticipates that the restoration will take more than 180 days from the date of the casualty to complete; in such event, Tenant may terminate this Lease effective as of the date of casualty by giving written notice to Landlord within 10 days after Landlord’s notice. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Subsection, in the event Landlord (i) does not notify Tenant that such repair and restoration is anticipated to take more than 180 days to complete, or (ii) notifies Tenant that such repair and restoration will require more than 180 days to

 

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complete and Tenant does not terminate this Lease as provided above, and such restoration is not, in fact, substantially completed within said time period, as said time period shall be extended for Force Majeure (defined below) and Tenant Delay (defined below), then Tenant shall have the option to terminate this Lease on 30 days prior written notice by giving Landlord notice of such termination within 10 days after expiration of such time period, provided, however, that if Tenant gives such notice of termination pursuant to this paragraph and Landlord then substantially completes the restoration and repair with such 30 day period, then Tenant’s notice of termination shall be deemed revoked and this Lease shall continue in full force and effect. Further, if a casualty to a material portion of the Building occurs during the last 12 months of the Term or any extension thereof, Landlord or Tenant may cancel this Lease unless Tenant has the right to extend the Term for at least 3 more years and does so within 30 days after the date of the casualty.

(b) Tenant on Landlord’s behalf shall maintain an industry-standard 12 month rental coverage endorsement or other comparable form of coverage as part of its fire, extended coverage and special form insurance. Tenant will receive an abatement of its Minimum Rent and Additional Rent to the extent the Premises are rendered untenantable, such abatement to be in the proportion that the number of rentable square feet of the Building rendered untenantable bears to the total number of rentable square feet in the Building.

13. Condemnation .

(a) Termination . If (i) all of the Premises are taken by a condemnation or otherwise for any public or quasi-public use, (ii) any part of the Premises is so taken and the remainder thereof is insufficient for the reasonable operation of Tenant’s business, or (iii) any of the Building is so taken and condemnation proceeds are insufficient to restore same to an architectural whole, then this Lease shall terminate and all unaccrued obligations hereunder shall cease as of the day before possession is taken by the condemnor.

(b) Partial Taking . If there is a condemnation and this Lease has not been terminated pursuant to this Section , (i) Landlord shall restore the Building and the improvements (including the parking facilities) which are a part of the Premises to a condition and size as nearly comparable as reasonably possible to the condition and size thereof immediately prior to the date upon which the condemnor took possession, and (ii) the obligations of Landlord and Tenant shall be unaffected by such condemnation except that there shall be an equitable abatement of the Minimum Rent according to the number of rentable square feet of the Building which has been taken.

(c) Award . In the event of a condemnation affecting Tenant, Tenant shall have the right to make a claim against the condemnor for moving expenses, business dislocation damages, loss of business, relocation costs or depreciation to, damage to, or cost of removal of, or for the value of stock, trade fixtures, furniture and other personal property of Tenant, or any other claim permitted by law (other than for

 

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leasehold damages) provided the claim does not reduce the sums otherwise payable by the condemnor to Landlord. Except as aforesaid and except as set forth in (d) below, Tenant hereby assigns all claims against the condemnor to Landlord.

(d) Temporary Taking . No temporary taking of the Premises shall terminate this Lease or give Tenant any right to any rental abatement. Any award made by reason of such temporary taking shall belong entirely to Tenant and Landlord shall not be entitled to share therein.

14. Non-Abatement of Rent . Except as otherwise expressly provided as to damage by fire or other casualty in Section 12(b), as to condemnation in Section 13(b), or elsewhere in this Lease, there shall be no abatement or reduction of the Rent for any cause whatsoever, and this Lease shall not terminate, and Tenant shall not be entitled to surrender the Premises.

15. Indemnification . (a) Subject to Section 7(c)(iii), Tenant will protect, indemnify and hold harmless Landlord (including its parent, subsidiaries and related entities) and its Agents from and against any and all claims, actions, damages, liability and expense (including reasonable fees of attorneys, investigators and experts) in connection with loss of life, personal injury or damage to property in or about the Premises or arising out of the occupancy or use of the Premises by Tenant or its Agents or occasioned wholly or in part by any act or omission of Tenant or its Agents, whether prior to, during or after the Term, except to the extent such loss, injury or damage was caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of Landlord or its Agents. In case any action or proceeding is brought against Landlord and/or its Agents by reason of the foregoing, Tenant, at its expense, shall resist and defend such action or proceeding, or cause the same to be resisted and defended by counsel (reasonably acceptable to Landlord and its Agents) designated by the insurer whose policy covers such occurrence or by counsel designated by Tenant and reasonably approved by Landlord and its Agents. Tenant’s obligations pursuant to this Section 15 shall survive the expiration or, termination of this Lease.

(b) Subject to Section 7(c)(iii), Landlord will protect, indemnify, and hold harmless Tenant (including its parent, subsidiaries and related entities) and its Agents from and against any and all claims, actions, damages, liability and expense (including reasonable fees of attorneys, investigators and experts) in connection with loss of life, personal injury or damage to property in or about the Premises which is occasioned wholly or in part by any act or omission of Landlord or its Agents, whether prior to, during or after the Term, except to the extent such loss, injury or damage was caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of Tenant or its Agents. In case any action or proceeding is brought against Tenant by reason of the foregoing, Landlord, at its expense, shall resist and defend such action or proceeding, or cause the same to be resisted and defended by counsel (reasonably acceptable to Tenant) designated by the insurer whose policy covers such occurrence or by counsel designated by Landlord and reasonably approved by Tenant. Landlord’s obligations pursuant to this Section 15 shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease.

 

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Landlord shall have the right to lease such space to any party (subject to the Use permitted under Section 4 ).

(e) The terms and conditions of any proposed assignment of this Lease, or sublease of all or a portion of the Premises, to include any space which Landlord has elected not to recapture, shall be communicated to Landlord prior to the effective date thereof and shall be subject to the written consent of Landlord, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed and shall be granted or denied within 10 days, provided and upon the condition that any new tenant(s) or occupant(s) is engaged in an office use. The financial condition of a proposed assignee or sublessee shall not constitute grounds for Landlord to withhold consent to a proposed assignment or sublease provided that the Guaranty (as hereinafter defined) remains in full force and effect.

(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Premises may be used and/or occupied, without Landlord’s consent, by any parent, division, affiliate or subsidiary of Tenant, or in connection with a merger, consolidation or reorganization without the same being deemed an assignment or sublet, provided that such entity is engaged in a business or activity which is in keeping with the Use under Section 4 . A sale of all, or substantially all, of assets or stock, or a public offering or distribution of stock, of Tenant or the business unit or division occupying the Premises, shall not be deemed an assignment for purposes of requiring Landlord’s consent. (All of the foregoing being hereinafter referred to as “Permitted Transfers”). A Permitted Transfer shall not be subject to any Landlord recapture or rent sharing rights. Within 20 days of any Permitted Transfer, Tenant shall provide Landlord with notice thereof and copies of relevant documents evidencing said transfer. Any lease transfer not in conformity with this Section 18 shall be void at the option of Landlord, and Landlord may exercise any or all of its rights under Section 23 . A consent to one transfer shall not be deemed to be a consent to any subsequent transfer. “Transfer” shall include any sublease, assignment, license or concession agreement, mortgage or hypothecation of this Lease or Tenant’s interest therein or in all or a portion of the Premises, except as otherwise provided herein.

(g) Conditions . The following shall apply to any transfer, with or without Landlord’s consent.

(i) As of the date of any transfer, Tenant shall not be in monetary or other material default under this Lease.

(ii) No transfer shall relieve Tenant of its obligation to pay the Rent and to perform all its other obligations hereunder (except for a transfer to Landlord pursuant to Landlord’s recapture right). The acceptance of Rent by Landlord from any person shall not be deemed to be a waiver by Landlord of any provision of this Lease or to be a consent to any transfer.

(h) Conditions . The following shall apply to any transfer requiring Landlord’s consent.

 

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(i) Each transfer shall be by a written instrument in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Landlord and in the case of an assignment shall include an assumption of liability by any transferee of all Tenant’s obligations and the transferee’s ratification of and agreement to be bound by all the provisions of this Lease.

(ii) Each transfer shall afford Landlord the right of direct action against the transferee pursuant to the same remedies as are available to Landlord against Tenant provided the Tenant is in default under this Lease and only after all applicable notice and cure rights have been exhausted.

(iii) Each transfer shall be by a written instrument executed by Tenant and transferee.

(iv) Tenant shall pay, within 10 days of receipt of an invoice which shall be no less than $250, Landlord’s reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs in connection with the review, processing and documentation of any transfer for which Landlord’s consent is requested.

(v) Tenant shall pay to Landlord monthly, 50% of the amount of rent received by Tenant from any such assignee or subtenant in excess of the Minimum Rent, after provision has been made for the payment of broker’s commissions actually incurred in connection with such subletting or assignment and the recovery by Tenant of reasonable fit-up costs actually expended by Tenant in connection with any such subletting or assignment.

19. Subordination; Mortgagee’s Rights .

(a) This Lease shall be subordinate to any first mortgage or other primary encumbrance now or hereafter affecting the Premises, provided Tenant is furnished with a commercially reasonable nondisturbance agreement by any such mortgage holder to the effect that so long as Tenant is not in default of its obligations hereunder (after the expiration of applicable notice and/or cure periods), Tenant’s possession of the Premises shall not be disturbed as a result of a default under such mortgage and the exercise of such mortgage holder’s rights thereunder, and the obligations and rights of Tenant under the Lease shall remain in full force and effect. Although the subordination is self-operative, within-30 days after written request, Tenant shall execute and deliver any further instruments confirming such subordination of this Lease and any further instruments of attornment that may be reasonably requested by any such mortgagee or Landlord. However, any mortgagee may at any time subordinate its mortgage to this Lease, without Tenant’s consent, by giving written notice to Tenant, and thereupon this Lease shall be deemed prior to such mortgage without regard to their respective dates of execution and delivery.

(b) It is understood and agreed that any mortgagee shall not be liable to Tenant for any security deposit or advance rent in excess of 1 month paid by Tenant to

 

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Landlord unless such funds actually have been transferred to such mortgagee by Landlord.

20. Recording; Estoppel Certificates .

(a) Provided Tenant is not then in default hereunder, Tenant may record the Memorandum of Lease annexed hereto as Exhibit “C” at any time after Landlord has obtained title to the Lot.

(b) Within 15 days after Landlord or Tenant’s written request of the other, from time to time Landlord and Tenant shall deliver to each other estoppel certificates stating that this Lease is in full force and effect and has not been modified and otherwise as set forth in the form of estoppel certificate attached as Exhibit “D” or with such modifications as may be necessary to reflect accurately the stated facts and/or such other certifications as may be reasonably requested by a mortgagee or purchaser. Landlord and Tenant understand that their failure to execute such documents may cause the other party serious financial damage by causing the failure of a financing, credit, sale or assignment transaction. Both parties further understand the legal significance of an estoppel certificate and the importance of the certificate’s accuracy and reasonableness.

21. Surrender; Abandoned Property .

(a) Subject to the terms of Sections 9(b) , 12 and 13 , at the expiration or termination of this Lease, Tenant promptly shall yield up in the same condition, order and repair in which they are required to be kept throughout the Term, the Premises and all improvements thereto, and all fixtures and equipment servicing the Building, ordinary wear and tear excepted.

(b) Upon or prior to the expiration or termination of this Lease, Tenant shall remove any personal property from the Premises. Any personal property remaining thereafter shall be deemed conclusively to have been abandoned, and Landlord, at Tenant’s expense, may remove, store, sell or otherwise dispose of such property in such manner as Landlord may see fit and/or Landlord may retain such property as its property. If any part thereof shall be sold, then Landlord may receive and retain the proceeds of such sale and apply the same, at its option, against the expenses of the sale, the cost of moving and storage and any Rent due under this Lease.

(c) If Tenant, or any person claiming through Tenant, shall continue to occupy the Premises after the expiration or termination of this Lease or any renewal thereof, such occupancy shall be deemed to be under a month-to-month tenancy under the same terms and conditions set forth in this Lease, except that the monthly installment of the Minimum Rent during such continued occupancy shall be 150% of the amount applicable to the last month of the Term. Anything to the contrary notwithstanding, any holding over by Tenant without Landlord’s prior written consent shall constitute a default hereunder and shall be subject to all the remedies available to Landlord.

 

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22. Curing Tenant’s Defaults . If an event of default by Tenant has occurred hereunder, Landlord, without any obligation to do so, in addition to any other rights it may have in law or equity, may elect to cure such default on behalf of Tenant after written notice and opportunity to cure set forth in Section 23(c) . Tenant shall reimburse Landlord upon demand for any reasonable sums paid or costs incurred by Landlord in curing such default, including interest thereon from the respective dates of Landlord’s incurring such costs, which sums and costs shall be deemed additional rent.

23. Defaults – Remedies .

(a) Defaults . It shall be an event of default:

(i) If Tenant does not pay in full when due any and all Rent;

(ii) If Tenant fails to observe and perform or otherwise breaches any other provision of this Lease;

(iii) If Tenant becomes insolvent or bankrupt in any sense or makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors or offers a settlement to creditors, or if a petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization or for an arrangement with creditors under any federal or state law is filed by or against Tenant, or a bill in equity or other proceeding for the appointment of a receiver for any of Tenant’s assets is commenced, or if any of the real or personal property of Tenant shall be levied upon; provided, however, that any proceeding brought by anyone other than Landlord or Tenant under any bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar law shall not constitute a default until such proceeding has continued unstayed for more than 60 consecutive days.

(b) Remedies . Then, and in any such event, Landlord shall have the following rights:

(i) To charge a late payment fee equal to 5% of any amount due and owing to Landlord pursuant to this Lease which is not paid within 5 days after the due date.

(ii) To enter and repossess the Premises, by breaking open locked doors if necessary, and remove all persons and all or any property therefrom, by action at law or otherwise, without being liable for prosecution or damages therefor, and Landlord may, at Landlord’s option, make alterations and repairs in order to relet the Premises and relet all or any part(s) of the Premises for Tenant’s account. Tenant agrees to pay to Landlord on demand any deficiency that may arise by reason of such reletting. In the event of reletting without termination of this Lease, Landlord may at any time thereafter elect to terminate this Lease for such previous breach.

(iii) To accelerate the whole or any part of the Rent for the balance of the Term, and declare the same to be immediately due and payable.

 

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(iv) To terminate this Lease and the Term without any right on the part of Tenant to save the forfeiture by payment of any sum due or by other performance of any condition, term or covenant broken.

(c) Grace Period . Notwithstanding anything hereinabove stated, neither party will exercise any available right or remedy because of any event of default of the other, except those remedies contained in subsection (b)(i) of this Section, unless such party shall have first given 10 days written notice thereof to the defaulting party in the case of default under Section 23(a)(i) , and 30 days written notice thereof to the defaulting party in the case of default under Section 23(a)(ii) , and the defaulting party shall have failed to cure the event of default within the applicable period; provided, however, that:

(i) Only a 5-day notice shall be required for failure of either party to comply with the provisions of Section 20(b).

(ii) Landlord shall not be required to give such notice more than 2 times during any 12 month period.

(iii) If an event of default under Sections 23(a)(ii) or (iii)  cannot reasonably be cured within 30 days, neither party will exercise any right if the defaulting party begins to cure the event of default within the 30 days and continues actively and diligently in good faith to completely cure said event of default.

(iv) The parties agree that any notice given pursuant to this Subsection 23(c) which is served in compliance with Section 27 shall be adequate notice for the purpose of exercise of any available remedies.

(d) Non-Waiver; Non-Exclusive . No waiver by one party of the other party’s breach shall be a waiver of any subsequent breach, nor shall any forbearance to seek a remedy for any breach be a waiver of any rights and remedies with respect to such or any subsequent breach. Efforts to mitigate damages caused by the other party’s default shall not constitute a waiver of the non-defaulting party’s right to recover damages hereunder. No right or remedy herein conferred upon or reserved is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy provided herein or by law, but each shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right or remedy given herein or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity. No payment by Tenant or receipt or acceptance by Landlord of a lesser amount than the total amount due Landlord under this Lease shall be deemed to be other than on account, nor shall any endorsement or statement on any check or payment be deemed an accord and satisfaction, and Landlord may accept such check or payment without prejudice to Landlord’s right to recover the balance of Rent due, or Landlord’s right to pursue any other available remedy.

(e) In the event of any default under this Lease by Landlord, Landlord shall have 30 days after receipt of written notice thereof to cure such default, unless it shall be of a nature that it cannot reasonably be cured within said 30 day period, in which

 

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event Landlord shall have a reasonable period of time to cure such default provided that Landlord commences to cure such default within said 30 day period and thereafter diligently prosecutes such cure to completion. If Landlord fails to cure any default within the cure period specified above, Tenant without limiting any of its rights or remedies permitted at law or in equity, shall have the right (but not the obligation) to cure such default and to charge Landlord for the reasonable cost thereof.

(f) Mitigation Obligation . Landlord and Tenant agree to mitigate damages in the event of default hereunder. Landlord shall use commercially reasonable efforts to relet the Premises and to mitigate its damages hereunder, but shall not be required to prefer the Premises over other space available for lease in the Building or in other buildings owned by Landlord in the geographic area in which the Building is located.

(g) Costs and Attorneys’ Fees . If either party commences an action against the other party arising out of or in connection with this Lease, the prevailing party shall be entitled to have and recover from the losing party reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of suit, investigation expenses and discovery costs, including costs of appeal.

24. Representations of Tenant . Tenant represents to Landlord and agrees that:

(a) The word Tenant as used herein includes the Tenant named above as well as its successors and assigns, each of which shall be under the same obligations and liabilities and each of which shall have the same rights, remedies, privileges, authorities and powers as it would have possessed had it originally signed this Lease as Tenant. No officer, director, or principal of Tenant shall have any liability with respect to any of the provisions of this Lease or the Premises, and if Tenant is in breach with respect to Tenant’s obligations under this Lease or otherwise, subject to Section 7(c) (insurance), Landlord shall look solely to Tenant and Guarantor (defined below) pursuant to the terms of the Guaranty (defined below) for satisfaction of Landlord’s claims. Each and every person named above as Tenant shall be bound jointly and severally by the terms, covenants and agreements contained herein. However, no such rights, privileges or powers shall inure to the benefit of any assignee of Tenant immediate or remote, unless Tenant has complied with the terms of Section 18 and the assignment to such assignee is permitted or has been approved in writing by Landlord as required herein. Any notice required or permitted by the terms of this Lease may be given by or to any one of the persons named above as Tenant and shall have the same force and effect as if given by or to all thereof.

(b) Tenant is a duly existing corporation and has the power and authority to enter into this Lease and to perform its obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Lease has been approved by the authorized Board of Directors of Tenant and no further corporate action is required on the part of Tenant to consummate the transaction contemplated hereby. The corporate officers executing this Lease on behalf of Tenant have all requisite authority to execute this Lease. There are no

 

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proceedings pending or threatened by or against Tenant in bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization in any state or federal court.

25. Liability of Landlord . (a) The word “Landlord” as used herein includes the Landlord named above as well as its successors and assigns, each of which shall have the obligations and liabilities and each of which have the same rights, remedies, powers, authorities and privileges as it would have had it originally signed this Lease as Landlord. Any such person or entity, whether or not named herein, shall have no liability hereunder after it ceases to hold title to the Premises except for obligations already accrued (and, as to any unapplied portion of Tenant’s Security Deposit, Landlord shall be relieved of all liability therefor upon transfer of such portion to its successor in interest) and Tenant shall look solely to Landlord’s successor in interest for the performance of the covenants and obligations of the Landlord hereunder which thereafter shall accrue. Neither Landlord nor any principal of Landlord nor any owner of the Premises, whether disclosed or undisclosed, shall have any personal liability with respect to any of the provisions of this Lease or the Premises, and if Landlord is in breach or default with respect to Landlord’s obligations under this Lease or otherwise (except with respect to Landlord’s obligations under Section 28 ), Tenant shall look solely to the equity of Landlord in the Premises and any proceeds of liability insurance maintained by Landlord pursuant to Section 7(c)(ii), for the satisfaction of Tenant’s claims. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no mortgagee or ground lessor succeeding to the interest of Landlord hereunder (either in terms of ownership or possessory rights) shall be (a) liable for any previous act or omission of a prior landlord, (b) subject to any rental offsets or defenses against a prior landlord, or (c) liable for payment by Tenant of Minimum Rent in advance in excess of one monthly installment.

(b) If Landlord is a corporation, partnership or any other form of business association or entity, Landlord is duly formed and in good standing, and has full corporate or partnership power and authority, as the case may be, to enter into this Lease and has taken all corporate or partnership action, as the case may be, necessary to carry , out the transaction contemplated herein, so that when executed, this Lease constitutes a valid and binding obligation enforceable in accordance with its terms.

26. Interpretation; Definitions .

(a) Captions . The captions in this Lease are for convenience only and are not a part of this Lease and do not in any way define, limit, describe or amplify the terms and provisions of this Lease or the scope or intent thereof.

(b) Entire Agreement . This Lease represents the entire agreement between the parties hereto and there are no collateral or oral agreements or understandings between Landlord and Tenant with respect to the Premises. No rights, easements or licenses are acquired in the Premises or any land adjacent to the Premises by Tenant by implication or otherwise except as expressly set forth in the provisions of this Lease. This Lease shall not be modified in any manner except by an instrument in writing executed by the parties. The masculine (or neuter) pronoun and the singular

 

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number shall include the masculine, feminine and neuter genders and the singular and plural number. The word including followed by any specific item(s) is deemed to refer to examples rather than to be words of limitation. Both parties having participated fully and equally in the negotiation and preparation of this Lease, this Lease shall not be more strictly construed, nor any ambiguities in this Lease resolved, against either Landlord or Tenant.

(c) Covenants . Each covenant, agreement, obligation, term, condition or other provision herein contained shall be deemed and construed as a separate and independent covenant of the party bound by, undertaking or making the same, not dependent on any other provision of this Lease unless otherwise expressly provided. All of the terms and conditions set forth in this Lease shall apply throughout the Term unless otherwise expressly set forth herein.

(d) Interest . Wherever interest is required to be paid hereunder, such interest shall be at the highest rate permitted under law, but not in excess of the prime interest rate published in The Wall Street Journal (or similar national publication) from time to time.

(e) Severability; Governing Law . If any provisions of this Lease shall be declared unenforceable in any respect, such unenforceability shall not affect any other provision of this Lease, and each such provision shall be deemed to be modified, if possible, in such a manner as to render it enforceable and to preserve to the extent possible the intent of the parties as set forth herein. This Lease shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the state in which the Premises is located.

(f) Mortgage and Mortgagee . The word “ mortgage ” as used herein includes any lien or encumbrance on the Premises or on any part of or interest in or appurtenance to the Premises, including without limitation any ground rent or ground lease if Landlord’s interest is or becomes a leasehold estate. The word “ mortgagee ” as used herein includes the holder of any mortgage, including any ground lessor if Landlord’s interest is or becomes a leasehold estate. Wherever any right is given to a mortgagee, that right may be exercised on behalf of such mortgagee by any representative or servicing agent of such mortgagee.

(g) Person . The word “person” is used herein to include a natural person, a partnership, a corporation, an association and any other form of business association or entity.

27. Notices . Any notice or other communication under this Lease shall be in writing to Landlord at its address specified at the beginning of this Lease (or to such other address as Landlord may designate by 30 days’ prior written notice to Tenant) with a copy to any mortgagee or other party timely designated in writing by Landlord. Any notice to Tenant hereunder shall be sent to Tenant at the address specified at the beginning of this Lease (or to such other address as Tenant may designate by 30 days, prior written notice to Landlord), Attention, Vice President of Corporate Real Estate, and

 

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a copy to Cendant Mortgage, 3000 Leadenhall Road, Mt. Laurel, New Jersey 08054, Attention: Pat Cummings, and Cendant Operations, Inc., 1 Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054, Attention: Legal Department. Each notice or other communication shall be deemed given if sent by prepaid overnight delivery service or by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid or in any other manner, with delivery in any case evidenced by receipt, and shall be deemed received on the day of the actual receipt by the intended recipient or on the business day delivery is refused. The giving of notice by Landlord’s attorneys, representatives and agents under this Section shall be deemed to be the acts of Landlord; however, the foregoing provisions governing the date on which a notice is deemed to have been received shall mean and refer to the date on which a party to this Lease, and not its counsel or other recipient to which a copy of the notice may be sent, is deemed to have received or refused the notice.

28. Building and Premises Improvements .

(a) Construction of Building and Premises . Landlord, at Landlord’s sole cost and expense, shall construct the Building and the Premises in accordance with the list of plans attached or to be attached as Exhibit E including rendering, site plan, Building elevations and prototype floor plan (the Plans ), and the specifications attached as Exhibit F (prototype technical descriptions) (the Specifications ) (collectively Exhibits E and F shall be referred to as the Building Plans ). The Building Plans include or shall include, without limitation, the following elements of the Premises: site work, landscaping and irrigation; patio seating; signage (including exterior monument signage, kitchen signage, and exit signs); Building shell (foundation, steel, precast, glass and roof); concrete floors; lobby and core areas; emergency generator/UPS; power to workstations; fitness room (excluding the equipment therefor); computer room with raised floor; fire protection (including fire extinguishers), PDU, and air conditioning; tenant fitout; kitchen/servery, security system; DataTrax; sound masking; voice/data cabling systems including building interconnect and racks (“Building Interconnect and Racks Systems”); Building Systems including mechanical, HVAC, rooftop systems including low and medium pressure duct work, VAV boxes and diffusers, electrical, utilities/sewer, plumbing systems and fire sprinkler distribution system. Landlord shall pay for and obtain all permits, make all required filings and obtain all final approvals for the improvements to be constructed by Landlord hereunder. All work shall be completed in accordance with plans and specifications consistent with Exhibit F to be prepared by Landlord and approved by Tenant, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed. Notwithstanding the foregoing and notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in the Building Plans, the Building Interconnect and Racks Systems to be purchased and installed by Landlord are subject to an allowance of $150,000 (the “Building Interconnect and Racks Allowance”). To the extent the costs incurred by Landlord for the purchase and installation of the Building Interconnect and Racks Systems (“Landlord’s Cost”) exceed the Building Interconnect and Racks Allowance, Tenant shall pay such excess to Landlord within ten (10) days after receipt of invoice therefor accompanied by reasonable supporting documentation. It is expressly agreed and understood that Tenant shall, at its sole cost and expense, purchase or lease and install the PBX phone switch, telephone recording equipment and

 

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voice/data network equipment notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Building Plans.

Within thirty (30) days after Tenant delivers to Landlord’s architect all of Tenant’s requirements for the Premises, Landlord shall deliver to Tenant for its approval a detailed space plan (“Space Plan”) for the Premises, which shall include, without limitation, the location of doors, partitions, electrical and telephone outlets, plumbing fixtures, heavy floor loads and other special requirements. The Space Plan shall be consistent with the requirements of Exhibit F . Within 5 business days after receipt by Tenant of the Space Plan, Tenant (i) shall give its written approval with respect thereto; or (ii) shall notify Landlord in writing of its disapproval and state the grounds for such disapproval and the revisions or modifications necessary for the Tenant to give its approval. It shall not be grounds for disapproval of the Space Plan that the Space Plan does not include items not shown on Exhibit F unless Tenant agrees to pay for cost increases necessary to effectuate such changes. Within 5 business days following Landlord’s receipt of Tenant’s disapproval, Landlord shall submit to Tenant for approval the requested revisions or modifications. Within 5 business days following receipt by Tenant of such revisions or modifications, Tenant shall give its written approval with respect thereto or shall request other revisions or modifications therein. This process shall continue until the Space Plan is approved by both parties. Landlord shall thereafter promptly submit final Building Plans and specifications including signed and sealed architectural drawings, site plan and mechanical, electric and plumbing drawings, for Tenant’s approval. Within 5 business days after Tenant’s receipt of the final Building Plans and specifications, Tenant shall (i) give its written approval with respect thereto, or (ii) notify Landlord in writing of its disapproval and state the grounds for such disapproval and the revisions necessary for Tenant to give its approval. It shall not be grounds for disapproval of the final Building Plans and specifications that the final Building Plans and specifications do not include items not shown on Exhibit F unless Tenant agrees to pay for cost increases necessary to effectuate such changes. Within 5 business days following Landlord’s receipt of Tenant’s disapproval, Landlord shall submit to Tenant for approval the requested revisions or modifications. Within 5 business days following receipt by Tenant of such revisions or modifications, Tenant shall give its written approval with respect thereto or shall request other revisions or modifications therein. This procedure shall continue until the final Building Plans and specifications are approved by Landlord and Tenant. The approved final Building Plans and specifications shall be incorporated into this Lease as Exhibit E by reference. All costs involved in approving, drafting and preparing the Space Plan and final Building Plans shall be paid by Landlord.

(b) Except for immaterial field changes (which may be made immediately but confirmed by written change order), modifications to the Building Plans must be made and accepted only in writing as follows: within 5 business days of receipt of Tenant’s request to Landlord for a change order (which request, if not in writing, shall be made directly to Landlord’s construction representative in person or by telephone), Landlord shall advise Tenant in writing if it approves of the requested change and, if so, provide Tenant with the following items: (i) a cover sheet summarizing the cost of the

 

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change and advising if such change order will increase project costs or result in delay of completion; (ii) itemization of the contractor’s costs (including line items per trade and unit costs); and (iii) architect drawings, if applicable. If acceptable to Tenant, Tenant shall promptly sign the cover sheet and return it to Landlord by fax (with a copy thereof by overnight mail) and such documentation will constitute an amendment to this Lease. For purposes of this Section, an “immaterial field change” shall mean such field changes which are required by any governmental authority or changes which (A) do not affect the size, configuration, structural integrity, quality, character, architectural appearance, standard of workmanship, and expected date of completion contemplated in the Building Plans, (B) will not result in any default in any obligation to any person or violation of any governmental requirements, and (C) the cost of or reduction resulting from any single field change or extra does not exceed $10,000 and the aggregate amount of all such field changes or extras does not exceed $100,000. Upon substantial completion of the work associated with any change order or immaterial field change, Landlord will send Tenant an invoice for the cost thereof (with all documentation required under this subsection (b) if not theretofore provided to Tenant), and Tenant shall pay such invoice within ten (10) days after receipt thereof.

(c) All construction shall be done in a good and workmanlike manner using only first class new materials and shall comply at the time of completion with all Applicable Laws and in accordance with and without material deviation from the Building Plans.

(d) For purposes hereof, substantial completion (“Substantial Completion”) shall be deemed to be (i) completion of the Building and the Premises in accordance with the Building Plans as acknowledged by Landlord’s architect in writing to Tenant, subject to a mutually agreed upon written punch list (which shall include required time for performance of each item) prepared by the parties which will not materially interfere with Tenant’s ability to utilize the entire Premises for its intended purpose (the “Punch List”), and (ii) issuance of a certificate of occupancy (temporary or permanent) for the Premises, provided the temporary certificate of occupancy allows Tenant to use the entire Premises for the uses permitted under this Lease (without any obligation that Tenant vacate the Premises in order to receive a permanent certificate of occupancy); ceiling and lighting are in and operating; walls, partitions, doors are erected with hardware and final finishes; all flooring is installed, cleaned, buffed; elevator, air conditioning, plumbing, electric, mechanical systems are installed and in good working order; debris caused by Landlord’s general contractor or subcontractors is removed; exterior scaffolding, construction machinery and exterior debris chutes are removed; and all agreed upon site work completed (except for items such as landscaping and topcoating of parking areas which cannot reasonably be completed in the winter due to weather conditions). Landlord shall give Tenant 60 days written notice of the anticipated date of Substantial Completion (the “Anticipated Date of Substantial Completion”). Subject to Force Majeure (defined below) and Tenant Delays (defined below), Landlord shall complete each item on the Punch List within the time agreed upon by the parties at the time the Punch List is prepared.

 

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(e) All necessary construction shall be Substantially Complete (defined in Subsection 28(d)) above and ready for use and occupancy by Tenant on or before the date which is twelve (12) months after Landlord’s receipt of all necessary governmental permits and approvals for the work, subject to extension for delays as set forth in Subsections 28(f) or (g)  below. Landlord shall diligently pursue the issuance of all governmental permits and approvals for the work and the acquisition of the Lot. If Substantial Completion does not occur by December 31, 2004, as such date shall be extended by Force Majeure (as defined below) and Tenant Delays (as defined below) (such date, as extended, the “Penalty Date”), (i) Landlord shall credit against installments of Minimum Annual Rent first coming due under the Lease an amount equal to one (1) day’s Minimum Rent for each day after the Penalty Date until the date Substantial Completion occurs, and (ii) the Term of the Lease shall be extended by the number of days between the Penalty Date and the date Substantial Completion occurs.

(f) Force Majeure . For purposes hereof, “Force Majeure” shall mean time actually lost by Landlord or Landlord’s contractors, subcontractors or suppliers due to governmental restrictions and limitations, scarcity (provided that it is not Force Majeure if alternate suppliers or comparable materials are reasonably available), unavailability or delay in obtaining fuel or materials (provided that it is not Force Majeure if alternate suppliers or comparable fuel or materials are reasonably available), war or other national emergency, accidents, floods, defective materials, fire damage or other casualties (provided same are not caused by Landlord or its Agents), adverse weather conditions (but excluding reasonably anticipated weather conditions for the geographic area of the Premises), or any other cause similar or dissimilar to the foregoing beyond the reasonable control of Landlord or Landlord’s contractors, subcontractors or suppliers, except excluding delay due to the adverse change in Landlord’s financial ability to perform its obligations.

(g) The terms “Tenant Delay” or “Delay caused by Tenant” shall mean delay in completion of construction of the Building and the Premises caused by:

(i) failure of Tenant to perform its design approval obligations within the time periods set forth herein or interference with the work to be performed by Landlord hereunder;

(ii) failure of Tenant to complete furniture installation on or before the Anticipated Date of Substantial Completion; and

(iii) any subsequent changes, modifications, or alterations to the Building Plans which reasonably cause delay in the completion thereof. For purposes of determining delay, the term Tenant shall include Tenant’s contractors, agents and employees. In addition, Landlord shall be required (as a condition to the effectiveness thereof) to provide written notice of the occurrence of such delay within 10 business days following such occurrence.

 

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(h) Tenant and its subcontractors shall have access to the Premises any time prior to the Commencement Date for installation of its furniture or any other Tenant item, provided Tenant does not materially interfere with or delay the work to be performed by Landlord hereunder and provided Tenant obtains Landlord’s prior written approval, such approval not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed.

(i) Landlord hereby warrants all work (including workmanship and materials) performed by it under this Section 28 for a period of 1 year from the Commencement Date (unless such work is a Punch List item in which case the 1 year warranty period shall commence on the date such item is completed).

(j) Landlord and its general contractor shall provide weekly written construction status reports to Tenant’s representative as follows: Attention: Pat Cummings, Vice President/Administration, Cendant Mortgage, 3000 Leadenhall Road, Mount Laurel, New Jersey 08054, and Frank Campana, Director Construction Services, Cendant Corporation, 1 Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054.

(k) During the construction of the Building and the Premises, Landlord shall carry or cause its general contractor to carry general commercial liability insurance with limits at no less than $1 million per occurrence and $2 million in the aggregate; and personal property insurance insuring all equipment, trade fixtures, inventory, fixtures and personal property located on or at the Premises for the perils covered by the causes of loss-special form (all risk) and in addition coverage for flood, earthquake and boiler and machinery (if applicable). Such insurance shall be written on a replacement cost basis (100%) of the full replacement value; workers compensation insurance with statutory employers liability limits; automobile liability insurance with combined single limits of $1 million per occurrence; and builder’s risk.

(l) The obligations of Landlord under this Section 28 are hereby guaranteed by Landlord’s general partner, Liberty Property Trust.

29. Environmental Information . At all times during and after the term of this Lease, Tenant shall furnish Landlord, upon reasonable request, and at no cost to Tenant, such information with respect to Tenant’s operations at the Premises as is necessary in order for Landlord or any successor owner of the Premises to comply with the New Jersey Industrial Site Recovery Act, N.J. Stat. Ann. 13:1K-6 et seq . and other federal and New Jersey environmental laws, regulations and ordinances, including without limitation, affidavits to be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection in connection with requests for letters of non-applicability and negative declarations.

30. Brokers . The parties agree that they have dealt with no brokers in connection with this Lease, except for Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT, Inc. whose commission shall be paid by Landlord pursuant to separate agreement. Each party agrees to indemnify and hold the other harmless from any and all claims for commissions or fees

 

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in connection with the Premises and this Lease from any other real estate brokers or agents with whom they may have dealt.

31. Contingency . This Lease and the obligations of the parties hereunder are contingent upon Landlord’s acquisition of title to the Lot on or before September 30, 2003, such time to be of the essence. In the event the cost of Landlord’s acquisition of the Lot (the “Land Acquisition Cost”) exceeds $1,400,000 (the “Land Budget”), the amount by which the Land Acquisition Cost exceeds the Land Budget shall be paid by Tenant to Landlord as additional rent, without interest, in 120 equal consecutive monthly installments commencing on the first day of the first full month during the Term and continuing on the first day of each month thereafter.

32. Guaranty of Lease . The obligations of Tenant hereunder shall be guaranteed by Cendant Corporation (“Guarantor”) pursuant to a guarantee in the form attached hereto as Exhibit “G” (“Guaranty”).

33. Renewal Options .

Upon the expiration of the Term as set forth in Article 1(c) , Tenant shall have the right and option to extend the Term at its election for either 1 – 10 year term or 3 – 5 year terms, such election to be made by Tenant in Tenant’s written notice of exercise of the first option period. The right and option to extend the term of the Lease shall be subject to and contingent upon the conditions set forth hereinafter. Tenant’s right and option to extend the Term shall be exercisable by Tenant giving written notice of the exercise of the right and option to Landlord at least 12 months prior to the expiration of the Term. In the event Tenant fails to give written notice of its intent to exercise any option as provided above, all of Tenant’s right and options to extend the Term shall be deemed to have been waived by Tenant and shall be of no further force or effect. In the event Tenant exercises its right and option(s) in accordance with the provisions hereof, the Term shall be extended accordingly (subject to Tenant’s rescission right as set forth below), and all the references contained in the Lease to the Term, whether by number of years or number of months, shall be construed to refer to the original term of the Lease, as extended, whether or not specific reference is made thereto in the Lease. Unless otherwise expressly provided to the contrary, the extended Term shall be upon the same terms, conditions, and covenants as set forth in the Lease except that there shall be no further right or option to extend the term of the Lease after the 10 year option term or after the third 5 year option term, as the case may be. The time within which the option(s) must be exercised and the reply times in this Section 33 are hereby made of the essence. The right and option(s) to extend the Lease Term shall be subject to and contingent upon each and every one of the following conditions:

(i) The Lease is in full force and effect;

(ii) Tenant shall not be in monetary or other material default under any of the terms, provisions, covenants and conditions of the Lease;

 

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(iii) All provisions relating to the initial construction of the Premises shall be deleted;

(iv) In lieu of the sums set forth in Paragraph 1(d) of the Lease, the monthly rental to be paid by Tenant during the option period(s) shall be the greater of (A) the fair market rental value, including annual fair market increases in rental value (collectively, the “FMV”) determined pursuant to Subsection 33(v) , or (B) the monthly rent payable by Tenant in the last year of the immediately preceding Term (the “Prior Rent Alternative”).

(v) After Tenant has given written notice to the Landlord of its intention to exercise the renewal option(s), Landlord shall, within 15 business days thereafter, deliver to Tenant a written notice stating the Minimum Rent to be paid for the Premises during the renewal term. If the Minimum Rent quoted by Landlord is not the Prior Rent Alternative and if Tenant objects to the Minimum Rent quoted by Landlord it shall within 15 business days of Tenant’s receipt of Landlord’s quote, either (i) notify Landlord in writing that it elects to rescind its exercise of the renewal option, in which case Tenant shall have no obligation to renew, and Tenant shall be deemed to have waived any present or future right to renew, or (ii) notify Landlord in writing that it objects to the Minimum Rent quoted by Landlord in which case the FMV shall be negotiated between Landlord and Tenant. In the event the parties cannot agree to the FMV within thirty (30) days after Landlord’s receipt of Tenant’s objection, the FMV shall be determined by arbitration as hereinafter provided. Landlord and Tenant shall each appoint a fit and impartial person as an arbitrator who shall have at least 10 years’ experience in the commercial office real estate industry in the Burlington County area. Such appointment shall be signified in writing by each party to the other. The arbitrators so appointed shall appoint a third arbitrator within 10 business days after the appointment of the second arbitrator. In the case of the failure of such arbitrators (or the arbitrators appointed as hereinafter provided) to agree upon a third arbitrator, such third arbitrator shall be appointed by the American Arbitration Association or its successor, or from its qualified panel or arbitrators, and shall be a person having at least 10 years’ experience in the commercial office real estate industry in the Burlington County area. In case either party shall fail to appoint an arbitrator within a period of 10 business days after written notice from the other party to make such appointment, then the American Arbitration Association shall appoint a second arbitrator having at least 10 years’ experience in the commercial office real estate industry in the Burlington County area. The 2 arbitrators so appointed shall appoint the 3 rd arbitrator within 10 business days after the appointment of the 2 nd arbitrator.

Each arbitrator shall proceed with all reasonable dispatch to determine the FMV and under all circumstances shall be bound by the terms of this Lease and shall not add to, subtract from, or otherwise modify such provisions. The decision of each arbitrator shall, in any event, be rendered within thirty (30) days after the appointment of the third arbitrator and such decision shall be in writing and in duplicate with one counterpart delivered to each Landlord and Tenant. The arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (or its successor) and applicable

 

29


New Jersey law, and the FMV shall be determined by averaging the two closest appraisals, which shall be binding, final and conclusive upon Landlord and Tenant. The fees of the arbitrators and the expenses incident to the proceedings shall be borne equally between Landlord and Tenant. In establishing the FMV, Landlord and any appraiser which may be appointed pursuant to this Section 33 are directed to consider all appropriate factors, including without limitation, the “AS IS” condition of the Premises, rental concessions customarily given at the time to a nonrenewal tenant (including without limitation a tenant work allowance, free rent and other economic incentives), rental rates at which comparable landlords at comparable buildings in the Burlington County, New Jersey area have at arms length recently leased comparable size space for comparable time to comparable tenants, and other appropriate matters.

34. Miscellaneous .

(a) Tenant shall be allowed full access to the Premises 7 days per week 24 hours per day (except in the event of an emergency).

(b) Wherever consent or approval is required under this Lease, it shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed by the party required to give such consent or approval.

35. Satellite Dish Antenna . Provided that Tenant is not then in monetary or other material default under this Lease, Tenant shall have right, to install, maintain and repair one or more satellite dish antennas or other telecommunications equipment (the “Antenna”) on the Premises under and subject to the following conditions:

(a) Tenant shall comply with all Applicable Laws, and shall obtain, and deliver to Landlord written evidence of, any approval(s) required under any recorded covenants or restrictions applicable to the Premises.

(b) Tenant shall obtain Landlord’s prior approval of the location of the Antenna on the Premises and of the specifications for the Antenna. If Landlord approves installation of the Antenna on the roof of the Building, Tenant agrees to consult with Landlord’s roofing contractor prior to installation and strictly to comply with the roofing contractor’s recommendations and requirements. Tenant shall pay all costs incurred by Landlord in connection with the Antenna including without limitation all reasonable outside architectural, engineering, contractors’ and legal fees.

(c) Tenant shall comply with the provision of Sections 9(b)(i) through (iii)  of this Lease.

(d) At least 3 business days prior to installation, Tenant shall notify Landlord of the date and time of the installation so that Landlord may at its option be present with Tenant at the installation.

 

30


(e) Tenant shall maintain the Antenna in a safe, good and orderly condition. The installation, maintenance, repair and removal of the Antenna shall be performed by Tenant at Tenant’s sole expense in a manner which will not impair the integrity of, damage or adversely affect the warranty applicable to, the roof or any other portion of the Premises.

(f) No later than the expiration or sooner termination of the Term, at Tenant’s sole expense, Tenant shall remove the Antenna and repair any resulting damage.

(g) Tenant’s indemnification of Landlord pursuant to Section 15(a) of this Lease applies to the Antenna and Tenant’s use of any portion of the Premises therefor. Without limiting the foregoing, Tenant solely shall be responsible for any damages or injury caused by or in any way relating to the Antenna, including, but not limited to, damage or injury caused by reason of the Antenna collapsing or being blown from the roof or any other portion of the Premises.

(h) In the event Landlord recaptures any of the Premises pursuant to Section 18, Landlord shall have the right to grant rights to other tenants to use portions of the roof of the Building for satellite dish antennas or other telecommunications equipment.

36. Non-Competition . So long as Tenant is not in default hereunder beyond applicable notice and/or grace periods herein contained:

(a) Provided Tenant and/or its affiliate(s) occupy at least 57,000 rentable square feet in the Building, Landlord will not lease any space in the Building to any other tenant for the operation of a call center-like business, unless otherwise approved by Tenant in writing. A “call center-like business” for purposes of this Lease shall mean any business with an environment consisting of at least 50 employees (including contract employees) whose primary job function is to receive and handle inbound telephone calls and/or to make outbound telephone calls on behalf of the business for the purpose of soliciting, servicing, retaining, responding to, dunning or converting new or existing customers, debtors, members or clients.

(b) Provided Tenant occupies at least 50% of the Building, Landlord will not lease any space in the Building to any other tenant for the operation of a mortgage company, including without limitation, a mortgage sales or processing center.

 

31


IN WITNESS WHEREOF , and in consideration of the mutual entry into this Lease and for other good and valuable consideration, and intending to be legally bound, Landlord and Tenant have executed this Lease.

 

   

LANDLORD :

    LIBERTY PROPERTY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
   

By:

 

Liberty Property Trust,

Sole General Partner

Date signed: July 25, 2003

   

By:

  /s/ Ward J. Fitzgerald
       

Name:

 

Ward J. Fitzgerald

       

Title:

 

Senior Vice President, Regional Director

    Agreed as to the guarantee of Landlord’s obligations under Section 28 :
    LIBERTY PROPERTY TRUST
   

By:

 

/s/ Ward J. Fitzgerald

       

Name:

 

Ward J. Fitzgerald

       

Title:

 

Senior Vice President, Regional Director

    TENANT :
    CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.

Date signed: July 25, 2003

   

By:

  /s/ Thomas F. Anderson
       

Name:

 

Thomas F. Anderson

       

Title:

 

Senior Vice President

 

32

Exhibit 10.17

[DALLAS: GROSS RENT FORM]

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Lease

ROYAL RIDGE OFFICE CENTER

BELTLINE @ WAYSIDE

LAS COLINAS, TEXAS

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Between

HFS, INCORPORATED,

a Delaware corporation

(Tenant)

and

CARRAMERICA REALTY, L.P.,

a Delaware limited partnership

(Landlord)


GROSS RENT FORM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

                    Page
1.    LEASE AGREEMENT    1
2.    RENT    1
   A.    Types of Rent    2
      (1)    Base Rent    2
      (2)    Operating Cost Share Rent    2
      (3)    Tax Share Rent    2
      (4)    Electrical Cost Share Rent    2
      (5)    Additional Rent    2
      (6)    Rent    2
   B.    Payment of Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent and Electrical Cost Share Rent    2
      (1)    Payment of Estimated Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent and Electrical Cost Share Rent    2
      (2)    Correction of Operating Cost Share Rent    3
      (3)    Correction of Tax Share Rent    3
      (4)    Correction of Electrical Cost Share Rent    3
   C.    Definitions    4
      (1)    Included Operating Costs    4
      (2)    Excluded Operating Costs    4
      (3)    Taxes    6
      (4)    Lease Year    6
      (5)    Fiscal Year    6
   D.    Computation of Base Rent and Rent, Adjustments    6
      (1)    Prorations.    6
      (2)    Default Interest    6
      (3)    Rent Adjustments    7
      (4)    Books and Records    7
      (5)    Miscellaneous    7
   E.    Zero Base Year Provisions    7
3.    PREPARATION AND CONDITION OF PREMISES; POSSESSION AND SURRENDER OF PREMISES    8
   A.    Condition of Premises    8
   B.    Tenant’s Possession    8
   C.    Maintenance    8
   D.    Landlord Certification    8
4.    PROJECT SERVICES    8
   A.    Heating and Air Conditioning    8
   B.    Elevators    9
   C.    Electricity    9
   D.    Water    9
   E.    Janitorial Service    9
   F.    Security Service    9
   G.    Parking    9
   H.    Interruption of Services    9
5.    ALTERATIONS AND REPAIRS    10
   A.    Landlord’s Consent and Conditions    10
   B.    Damage to Systems    11
   C.    No Liens    11
   D.    Ownership of Improvements    11
   E.    Removal at Termination    11
   F.    Satellite Dish    11

 

i


6.

   USE OF PREMISES    12

7.

   GOVERNMENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND BUILDING RULES    12

8.

   WAIVER OF CLAIMS; INDEMNIFICATION; INSURANCE    12
   A.    Waiver of Claims    12
   B.    Indemnification    12
   C.    Tenant’s Insurance    12
   D.    Insurance Certificates    13
   E.    Landlord’s Insurance    13

9.

   FIRE AND OTHER CASUALTY    14
   A.    Termination    14
   B.    Restoration    14

10.

   EMINENT DOMAIN    14

11.

   RIGHTS RESERVED TO LANDLORD    14
   A.    Name    14
   B.    Signs    14
   C.    Window Treatments    14
   D.    Keys    15
   E.    Access    15
   F.    Preparation for Reoccupancy    15
   G.    Heavy Articles    15
   H.    Show Premises    15
   I.    Relocation of Tenant    15
   J.    Use of Lockbox    15
   K.    Repairs and Alterations    15
   L.    Landlord’s Agents    15
   M.    Building Services    16
   N.    Other Actions    16

12.

   TENANT’S DEFAULT    16
   A.    Rent Default    16
   B.    Assignment/Sublease or Hazardous Substances Default    16
   C.    Other Performance Default    16
   D.    Credit Default    16

13.

   LANDLORD REMEDIES    16
   A.    Termination of Lease or Possession    16
   B.    Lease Termination Damages    16
   C.    Possession Termination Damages    17
   D.    Alter Locks    17
   E.    Landlord’s Remedies Cumulative    17
   F.    WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY    17
   G.    Litigation Costs    17
   H.    Reletting    17

14.

   SURRENDER    18

15.

   HOLDOVER    18

16.

   SUBORDINATION TO GROUND LEASES AND MORTGAGES    18
   A.    Subordination    18
   B.    Termination of Ground Lease or Foreclosure of Mortgage    18
   C.    Security Deposit    19
   D.    Notice and Right to Cure    19
   E.    Definitions    19

 

ii


17.

   ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLEASE    19
   A.    In General    19
   B.    Landlord’s Consent    19
   C.    Procedure    19
   D.    Change of Management or Ownership    20
   E.    Excess Payments    20
   F.    Recapture    20
   G.    Related Entity    20

18.

   CONVEYANCE BY LANDLORD    20

19.

   ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATE    20

20.

   SECURITY DEPOSIT    20

21.

   FORCE MAJEURE    21

22.

   LANDLORD’S DEFAULT    21

23.

   NOTICES    21
   A.    Landlord    21
   B.    Tenant    21

24.

   QUIET POSSESSION    22

25.

   REAL ESTATE BROKER    22

26.

   MISCELLANEOUS    22
   A.    Successors and Assigns    22
   B.    Date Payments Are Due    22
   C.    Meaning of “Landlord”, “Re-Entry”, “including” and “Affiliate”    22
   D    Time of the Essence    22
   E.    No Option    22
   F.    Severability    22
   G.    Governing Law    22
   H.    Lease Modification    22
   I.    No Oral Modification    23
   J.    Landlord’s Right to Cure    23
   K.    Captions    23
   L.    Authority    23
   M.    Landlord’s Enforcement of Remedies    23
   N.    Entire Agreement    23
   O.    Landlord’s Title    23
   P.    Light and Air Rights    23
   Q.    Singular and Plural    23
   R.    No Recording by Tenant    23
   S.    Exclusivity    23
   T.    No Construction Against Drafting Party    23
   U.    Survival    23
   V.    Rent Not Based on Income    23
   W.    Building Manager and Service Providers    23
   X.    Late Charge and Interest on Late Payments    23

27.

   UNRELATED BUSINESS INCOME    24

28.

   HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES    24

29.

   EXCULPATION    24

30.

   WAIVER OF CONSUMER RIGHTS    24

 

iii


APPENDIX A    -    PLAN OF THE PREMISES/ET SPACE
APPENDIX B    -    RULES AND REGULATIONS
APPENDIX C    -    TENANT IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT
APPENDIX D    -    MORTGAGES CURRENTLY AFFECTING THE PROJECT
APPENDIX E    -    COMMENCEMENT DATE CONFIRMATION
APPENDIX F    -    EXTENSION OPTION
APPENDIX G    -    RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL
APPENDIX H    -    JANITORIAL SERVICES
APPENDIX I    -    PARTIAL TERMINATION OPTION

 

iv


LEASE

THIS LEASE (the “ Lease ”) is made as of this 19 day of November, 1997 between CarrAmerica Realty, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Landlord ”) and the Tenant as named in the Schedule below. The term “ Project ” means the building (the “ Building ”) to be built and known as “Royal Ridge Office Center” and the land (the “ Land ”) located along Beltline Road and Wayside, Las Colinas, Texas. “ Premises ” means that part of the Project leased to Tenant described in the Schedule and outlined on Appendix A.

The following schedule (the “ Schedule ”) is an integral part of this Lease. Terms defined in this Schedule shall have the same meaning throughout the Lease.

SCHEDULE

 

  1. Tenant : HFS, INCORPORATED

 

  2. Premises : Shown on the Plans.

 

  3. Rentable Square Feet of the Premises : 55,000, subject to verification prior to the Commencement Date by each of Tenant’s and Landlord’s architect based upon the BOMA standards to be set forth in the Plans.

 

  4. Tenant’s Proportionate Share : 54% (based upon a total of 101,933 rentable square feet in the Building, subject to verification upon completion of the Building by each of Tenant’s and Landlord’s architect based upon the same standards as applied to the Premises).

 

  5. Security Deposit : None.

 

  6. Tenant’s Real Estate Broker for this Lease : Colliers Baldwin Company.

 

  7. Landlord’s Real Estate Broker for this Lease : Koll Real Estate Group.

 

  8. Tenant Improvements, if any : See the Tenant Improvement Agreement attached hereto as Appendix C.

 

  9. Commencement Date : Completion Date, as defined on Appendix C hereto; Landlord and Tenant shall execute a Commencement Date Confirmation substantially in the form of Appendix E promptly following the Commencement Date which shall, among other matters, conclusively establish the square footage of the Premises and the Building.

 

  10. Termination Date/Term : Five (5) years after the Commencement Date, or if the Commencement Date is not the first day of a month, then on the last day of the month in which the fifth (5th) anniversary of the Commencement Date occurred.

 

  11. Guarantor : None.

 

  12. Base Year : 1998, but see Paragraph 2E below.

 

  13. Base Rent :

 

Period

   Annual
Base Rent
    Monthly
Base Rent
 

Years 1-3

   $ 16.75 *   $ 76,770.83 **

Years 4-5

   $ 17.25 *   $ 79,062.50 **

 

* See paragraph 2E below

 

** Amounts to be adjusted, as appropriate, based upon final space measurement.

1. LEASE AGREEMENT . On the terms stated in this Lease, Landlord leases the Premises to Tenant, and Tenant leases the Premises from Landlord, for the Term beginning on the Commencement Date and ending on the Termination Date unless extended or sooner terminated pursuant to this Lease.

2. RENT .

A. Types of Rent . Tenant shall pay the following Rent in the form of a check to Landlord at the following address:

CarrAmerica Realty, L.P.

t/a Royal Ridge

P.O. Box [to be provided]

Atlanta, GA 30384

 

1


or by wire transfer as follows:

NationsBank, N.A. (South)

ABA Number 061-000-052

Account Number [to be provided]

or in such other manner as Landlord may notify Tenant reasonably in advance of the applicable payment due date:

(1) Base Rent in monthly installments in advance, the first monthly installment payable upon the Commencement Date and thereafter on or before the first day of each month of the Term in the amount set forth on the Schedule.

(2) Operating Cost Share Rent in an amount equal to the Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the excess of Operating Costs for the applicable fiscal year of the Lease (the “ Excess Operating Costs ”) over the Operating Costs for the Base Year (the “ Base Operating Costs ”), paid monthly in advance in an estimated amount. Definitions of Operating Costs and Tenant’s Proportionate Share, and the method for billing and payment of Operating Cost Share Rent are set forth in Sections 2B, 2C and 2D.

(3) Tax Share Rent in an amount equal to the Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the excess of Taxes for the applicable fiscal year of this Lease (the “ Excess Taxes ”) over the Taxes for the Base Year (the “ Base Taxes ”), paid monthly in advance in an estimated amount. A definition of Taxes and the method for billing and payment of Tax Share Rent are set forth in Sections 2B, 2C and 2D.

(4) Electrical Cost Share Rent in an amount equal to the sum of (a) all electricity used by the Premises; plus (b) Tenant’s Proportionate Share of all electricity used by the Project (“ Electrical Costs ”). Electrical Costs under clause (b) exclude any electricity charges attributable to any tenantable areas (i.e., those areas either leased or being held for lease by Landlord). Such amount shall be payable monthly in advance in an estimated amount. The method of billing and payment of Electrical Cost Share Rent is set forth in Sections 2B and 2D.

(5) Additional Rent in the amount of all costs, expenses, liabilities, and amounts which Tenant is required to pay under this Lease, excluding Base Rent, Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent and Electrical Cost Share Rent, but including any interest for late payment of any item of Rent.

(6) Rent as used in this Lease means Base Rent, Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent, Electrical Cost Share Rent and Additional Rent. Tenant’s agreement to pay Rent is an independent covenant, with no right of setoff, deduction or counterclaim of any kind.

B. Payment of Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent and Electrical Cost Share Rent .

(1) Payment of Estimated Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent and Electrical Cost Share Rent . Landlord shall estimate the Operating Costs, Taxes and Electrical Costs (please see clause A.(4) above for limits on definition of Electrical Costs and clause B.(4) below for “true-up” provisions) of the Project by April 1 of each fiscal year, or as soon as reasonably possible thereafter. Landlord may revise these estimates whenever it obtains more accurate information, such as the final real estate tax assessment or tax rate for the Project.

 

2


Within twenty-five (25) days after receiving the original or revised estimate from Landlord setting forth (a) an estimate of Operating Costs for a particular fiscal year, (b) the Base Operating Costs, and (c) the resulting estimate of Excess Operating Costs for such fiscal year, Tenant shall pay Landlord one-twelfth (l/12th) of Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the estimated Excess Operating Costs, multiplied by the number of months that have elapsed in the applicable fiscal year to the date of such payment including the current month, minus payments previously made by Tenant for the months elapsed. On the first day of each month thereafter, Tenant shall pay Landlord one-twelfth (1/12th) of Tenant’s Proportionate Share of this estimate, until a new estimate becomes applicable.

Within twenty-five (25) days after receiving the original or revised estimate from Landlord setting forth (a) an estimate of Taxes for a particular fiscal year, (b) the Base Taxes, and (c) the resulting estimate of Excess Taxes for such fiscal year, Tenant shall pay Landlord one-twelfth (1/12th) of Tenant’s Proportionate Share of the estimated Excess Taxes, multiplied by the number of months that have elapsed in the applicable fiscal year to the date of such payment including the current-month, minus payments previously made by Tenant for the months elapsed. On the first day of each month thereafter, Tenant shall pay Landlord one-twelfth (1/12th) of Tenant’s Proportionate Share of this estimate, until a new estimate becomes applicable.

Within twenty-five (25) days after receiving the original or revised estimate setting forth an estimate of Tenant’s Proportionate Share of Electrical Costs for a particular fiscal year, Tenant shall pay Landlord one-twelfth (1/12th) of the estimated Tenant’s Proportionate Share of Electrical Costs, multiplied by the number of months that have elapsed in the applicable fiscal year to the date of payment, including the current month, minus payments previously made by Tenant for the months elapsed. On the first day of each month thereafter, Tenant shall pay Landlord one-twelfth (l/12th) of Tenant’s Proportionate Share of such estimate, until a new estimate becomes available.

Landlord agrees to cause the electricity used by the Premises to be separately metered. Tenant must timely pay all separate billing invoices directly to the utility provider and, at the same time, furnish Landlord with evidence of delivery of payment. Tenant must pay all interest, penalties and other charges payable to such utility provider for any failure by Tenant to promptly pay such invoices.

(2) Correction of Operating Cost Share Rent . Landlord shall deliver to Tenant a report for the previous fiscal year (the “ Operating Cost Report ”) by April 1 of each year, or as soon as reasonably possible thereafter, setting forth (a) the actual Operating Costs incurred, (b) the Base Operating Costs, (c) the amount of Operating Cost Share Rent due from Tenant, and (d) the amount of Operating Cost Share Rent paid by Tenant. Within twenty (20) days after such delivery, Tenant shall pay to Landlord the amount due minus the amount paid. If the amount paid exceeds the amount due, Landlord shall apply the excess to Tenant’s payments of Operating Cost Share Rent next coming due and, if such excess has not been fully applied within 2 months, then against other Rent, next becoming due. If this Lease has been terminated prior to such determination, such excess will be promptly paid to Tenant.

(3) Correction of Tax Share Rent . Landlord shall deliver to Tenant a report for the previous fiscal year (the “ Tax Report ”) by April 1 of each year, or as soon as reasonably possible thereafter, setting forth (a) the actual Taxes, (b) the Base Taxes, (c) the amount of Tax Share Rent due from Tenant, and (d) the amount of Tax Share Rent paid by Tenant. Within thirty (30) days after such delivery, Tenant shall pay to Landlord the amount due from Tenant minus the amount paid by Tenant. If the amount paid exceeds the amount due, Landlord shall apply any excess as a credit against Tenant’s payments of Tax Share Rent next coming due and, if such excess has not been fully applied within 2 months, then against other Rent next becoming due. If this Lease has been terminated prior to such determination, such excess will be promptly paid to Tenant.

(4) Correction of Electrical Cost Share Rent . Landlord shall deliver to Tenant a report for the previous fiscal year (the “ Electrical Cost Report ”) by April 1 of each year,

 

3


or as soon as reasonably possible thereafter, setting forth (a) the actual Electrical Costs, (b) the amount of Electrical Cost Share Rent due from Tenant, and (c) the amount of Electrical Cost Share Rent paid by Tenant. Within thirty (30) days after such delivery, Tenant shall pay to Landlord the amount due from Tenant minus the amount paid by Tenant. If the amount paid exceeds the amount due, Landlord shall apply any excess as a credit against Tenant’s payments of Electrical Cost Share Rent next coming due and, if such excess has not been fully applied within 2 months, then against other Rent next coming due. If this Lease has been terminated prior to such determination, such excess will be promptly paid to Tenant.

C. Definitions .

(1) Included Operating Costs . “ Operating Costs ” means any expenses, costs and disbursements of any kind other than Taxes and Electrical Costs, paid or incurred by Landlord in connection with the management (any management fees, however, not to exceed 3% of gross rents from time to time), maintenance, operation, insurance, repair and other related activities in connection with any part of the Project and of the personal property, fixtures, machinery, equipment, systems and apparatus used in connection therewith, including the cost of providing those services required to be furnished by Landlord under this Lease. Operating Costs shall also include the costs of any capital improvements which are intended to reduce Operating Costs or improve safety, and those made to keep the Project in compliance with governmental requirements applicable from time to time (collectively, “ Included Capital Items ”); provided, that the costs of any Included Capital Item shall be amortized by Landlord, together with an amount equal to interest at nine percent (9%) per annum, over the estimated useful life of such item calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied (“ GAAP ”) and such amortized costs are only included in Operating Costs for that portion of the useful life of the Included Capital Item which falls within the Term.

If the Project is not fully occupied during any portion of any fiscal year, Landlord may adjust (an “ Equitable Adjustment ”) Operating Costs to equal what would have been incurred by Landlord had the Project been fully occupied. This Equitable Adjustment shall apply only to Operating Costs which are variable and therefore increase as occupancy of the Project increases. Landlord may incorporate the Equitable Adjustment in its estimates of Operating Costs.

(2) Excluded Operating Costs . Operating Costs shall not include:

 

  (a) costs of alterations of tenant premises;

 

  (b) costs of capital improvements other than Included Capital Items;

 

  (c) interest and principal payments on mortgages or any other debt costs, or rental payments on any ground lease of the Project;

 

  (d) real estate brokers’ leasing commissions;

 

  (e) legal fees, space planner fees and advertising expenses incurred with regard to leasing the Building or portions thereof;

 

  (f) any cost or expenditure for which Landlord is reimbursed, by insurance proceeds or otherwise, except by Operating Cost Share Rent;

 

  (g) the cost of any service furnished to any office tenant of the Project which Landlord does not make available to Tenant;

 

  (h) depreciation (except on any Included Capital Items);

 

  (i) franchise or income taxes imposed upon Landlord, except to the extent imposed in lieu of all or any part of Taxes;

 

4


  (j) costs of correcting defects in construction of the Building (as opposed to the cost of normal repair, maintenance and replacement expected with the construction materials and equipment installed in the Building in light of their specifications);

 

  (k) legal and auditing fees which are for the benefit of Landlord such as collecting delinquent rents, preparing tax returns and other financial statements, and audits other than those incurred in connection with the preparation of reports required pursuant to Section 2B above;

 

  (l) the wages of any employee for services not related directly to the management, maintenance, operation and repair of the Building;
  (m) fines, penalties and interest;

 

  (n) any ground lease rental;

 

  (o) depreciation, amortization and interest payments (except as provided herein and except on materials, tools, supplies and vendor-type equipment purchased by Landlord to enable Landlord to supply services Landlord might otherwise contract for with a third party) where such depreciation, amortization and interest payments would otherwise have been included in the charge for such third party’s services, all as determined in accordance with GAAP, consistently applied, and when depreciation or amortization is permitted or required, the item shall be amortized over its reasonably anticipated useful life;

 

  (p) costs incurred by Landlord due to the violation by Landlord or any tenant of the terms and conditions of any lease of space in the Project;

 

  (q) overhead and profit increment paid to Landlord or to subsidiaries or affiliates of Landlord for goods and/or services in the Project to the extent same exceeds the costs of such goods and/or services rendered by unaffiliated third parties on a competitive basis;

 

  (r) any compensation paid to clerks, attendants or other persons in commercial concessions operated by Landlord or in the parking garage of the Project and/or all fees paid to any parking facility operator (on or off site) (provided, however, if Landlord provides such parking free of charge to Tenant, these expenses may be included as Operating Costs);

 

  (s) advertising and promotional expenditures;

 

  (t) electric power costs for which any tenant directly contracts with the local public service company;

 

  (u) services provided, taxes attributable to, and costs incurred in connection with the operation of any retail, restaurant, and garage operations in the Project, and any replacement garages or parking facilities and any shuttle services;

 

  (v) tax penalties to the extent incurred as a result of Landlord’s negligence, inability or unwillingness to make payments and/or to file any income tax or informational returns when due;

 

  (w) costs arising from the presence of asbestos or PCB’s in or about the Project;

 

  (x) costs arising from Landlord’s charitable or political contributions; and

 

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  (y) costs for sculpture, paintings or other subjects of art to the extent in excess of customary fees for maintenance of public amenities in the public area.

(3) Taxes . “ Taxes ” means any and all taxes, assessments and charges of any kind, general or special, ordinary or extraordinary, levied against the Project, which Landlord shall pay or become obligated to pay in connection with the ownership, leasing, renting, management, use, occupancy, control or operation of the Project or of the personal property, fixtures, machinery, equipment, systems and apparatus used in connection therewith. Taxes shall include real estate taxes, personal property taxes, sewer rents, water rents, special or general assessments, transit taxes, ad valorem taxes, and any tax levied on the rents hereunder or the interest of Landlord under this Lease (the “ Rent Tax ”). Taxes shall also include all fees and other costs and expenses paid by Landlord in reviewing any tax and in seeking a refund or reduction of any Taxes, whether or not the Landlord is ultimately successful. Landlord agrees to use all commercially reasonable efforts to insure that Taxes do not exceed the amount per rentable square foot of comparable buildings within the Royal Tech area. If Landlord elects not to protest Taxes, Tenant may deliver written notice to Landlord requesting that Landlord protest Taxes. If Landlord fails to file such protest within thirty (30) days following Landlord’s receipt of Tenant’s notice then Tenant may, at Tenant’s cost, file such protest on Landlord’s behalf and with Landlord’s cooperation, but such cooperation will not obligate Landlord to incur any tax protest costs. If Tenant files such protest and Taxes are increased from that proposed prior to such protest, Tenant must promptly pay to Landlord an amount equal to the increased Taxes for the current and all future years, all as calculated in a manner reasonably acceptable to Landlord.

For any year, the amount to be included in Taxes (a) from taxes or assessments payable in installments, shall be the amount of the installments (with any interest) due and payable during such year, and (b) from all other Taxes, shall at Landlord’s election be the amount accrued, assessed, or otherwise imposed for such year or the amount due and payable in such year. Any refund or other adjustment to any Taxes by the taxing authority, shall apply during the year in which the adjustment is made.

Taxes shall exclude any net income (except Rent Tax), capital, stock, succession, transfer, franchise, gift, estate or inheritance tax, except to the extent that such tax shall be imposed in lieu of any portion of Taxes,

(4) Lease Year . “ Lease Year ” means each consecutive twelve-month period beginning with the Commencement Date, except that if the Commencement Date is not the first day of a calendar month, then the first Lease Year shall be the period from the Commencement Date through the final day of the twelve months after the first day of the following month, and each subsequent Lease Year shall be the twelve months following the prior Lease Year.

(5) Fiscal Year . “ Fiscal Year ” means the calendar year, except that the first fiscal year and the last fiscal year of the Term may be a partial calendar year.

D. Computation of Base Rent and Rent Adjustments .

(1) Prorations . If this Lease begins on a day other than the first day of a month, the Base Rent, Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent and Electrical Cost Share Rent, shall be prorated for such partial month based on the actual number of days in such month. If this Lease begins on a day other than the first day, or ends on a day other than the last day, of the fiscal year, Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent and Electrical Cost Share Rent, shall be prorated for the applicable fiscal year.

(2) Default Interest. Any sum due from Tenant to Landlord not paid when due shall bear interest from the date due until paid at the lesser of the maximum rate permitted by applicable law or the then Prime Rate (as hereinafter defined) plus two percent (2%) per annum.

 

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(3) Rent Adjustments . The square footage of the Premises and the Building set forth in the Commencement Date Confirmation, when executed will be conclusively deemed to be the actual square footage thereof, without regard to any subsequent remeasurement of the Premises or the Building. If any Operating Cost paid in one fiscal year relates to more than one fiscal year, Landlord may proportionately allocate such Operating Cost among the related fiscal years.

(4) Books and Records . Landlord shall maintain books and records reflecting the Operating Costs, Taxes and Electrical Cost in accordance with sound accounting and management practices. Tenant and its certified public accountant shall have the right to inspect Landlord’s records at Landlord’s office upon at least seventy-two (72) hours’ prior notice during normal business hours during the one hundred twenty (120) days following the respective delivery of the Operating Cost Report, the Tax Report or the Electrical Cost Report. The results of any such inspection shall be kept strictly confidential by Tenant and its agents, and Tenant and its certified public accountant must agree, in their contract for such services, to such confidentiality restrictions and shall specifically agree that the results shall not be made available to any other tenant of the Building. Unless Tenant sends to Landlord any written exception to either such report within said one hundred twenty (120) day period, such report shall be deemed final and accepted by Tenant. Tenant shall pay the amount shown on both reports in the manner prescribed in this Lease, whether or not Tenant takes any such written exception, without any prejudice to such exception. If Tenant makes a timely exception, Landlord shall select and cause an independent certified public accountant, reasonably acceptable to Tenant, with at least ten (10) years of experience in auditing the books and records of commercial office projects to issue a final and conclusive resolution of Tenant’s exception. The cost of such certification shall be borne equally by Tenant and Landlord.

(5) Miscellaneous . So long as Tenant is in default of any monetary obligation under this Lease after the expiration of any applicable cure period, Tenant shall not be entitled to any refund of any amount from Landlord but when such default is cured Tenant will receive such refund. If this Lease is terminated for any reason prior to the annual determination of Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent or Electrical Cost Rent, either party shall pay the full amount due to the other within fifteen (15) days after Landlord’s notice to Tenant of the amount when it is determined. Landlord may commingle any payments made with respect to Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent or Electrical Cost Rent, without payment of interest.

E. Zero Base Year Provisions . Landlord and Tenant agree that the Base Rent includes an estimate of $5.00 per rentable square foot for Operating Costs and Taxes for the Base Year. Upon determination in accordance with subparagraph B above of the actual amount of Operating Costs and Taxes for the Base Year, the Base Rent will be adjusted appropriately. If the actual amount exceeds $5.00, then Tenant will pay Landlord, within 10 days following the dare of determination, the amount of such underpayment calculated from the Commencement Date. If the actual amount is less than $5.00, then Landlord will credit the amount of such overpayment against Tenant’s rental payments next succeeding the date of determination. For example, if the actual amount of Operating Costs and Taxes for the Base Year are $4.50 per rentable square foot, then the following will occur:

(1) Landlord will give Tenant a credit, calculated from the Commencement Date through the date of determination, equal to (a) $0.50 per rentable square foot per annum, multiplied (b) the rentable square footage within the Premises; and

(2) the Base Rent payable thereafter will be reduced by $0.50 per rentable square foot (i.e., reduced to $16.25 during the remainder of years 1-3 and reduced to $16.75 for years 4 and 5).

 

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If, however, the actual amount of Operating Costs and Taxes for the Base Year are $5.25 per rentable square foot, then the following will occur:

(1) Tenant will pay Landlord an amount, calculated from the Commencement Date through the date of determination, equal to (a) $0.25 per rentable square foot per annum, multiplied by (b) the rentable square footage within the Premises; and

(2) the Base Rent payable thereafter will be increased by $0.25 per rentable square foot (i.e., increased to $17.00 during the remainder of years 1-3 and increased to $17.50 for years 4-5).

3. PREPARATION AND CONDITION OF PREMISES; POSSESSION AND SURRENDER OF PREMISES .

A. Condition of Premises . Except to the. extent of the Tenant Improvement items on the Schedule, Landlord is leasing the Premises to Tenant “as is”, without any obligation to alter, remodel, improve, repair or decorate any part of the Premises; provided, however, Landlord shall, at Landlord’s expense, cause the Premises to be completed in a good and workman-like manner in accordance with then applicable, law, with due diligence and in accordance with the Tenant Improvement Agreement attached as Appendix C. Landlord agrees, subject to Appendix C, to deliver the Premises in vacant, “broom clean” condition with all systems serving the Premises in good working order.

B. Tenant’s Possession . Tenant’s taking possession of any portion of the Premises shall be conclusive evidence that the Premises was in good order, repair and condition, except for punch list items, if any, identified by Tenant to Landlord by written notice delivered to Landlord no later than 30 days following substantial completion of the Initial Improvements and, for a period of one (1) year following the Commencement Date, any latent defects in the Premises. If Landlord authorizes Tenant to take possession of any part of the Premises prior to the Commencement Date for purposes of doing business, all terms of this Lease shall apply to such pre-Term possession, including Base Rent at the rate set forth for the First Lease Year in the Schedule prorated for any partial month.

C. Maintenance . Throughout the Term, Tenant shall maintain the Premises in their condition as of the Completion Date, loss or damage caused by the elements, ordinary wear, and fire and other casualty excepted, and at the termination of this Lease, or Tenant’s right to possession, Tenant shall return the Premises to Landlord in broom-clean condition. To the extent Tenant fails to perform either obligation, Landlord may, but need not, restore the Premises to such condition and Tenant shall pay the cost thereof.

D. Landlord Certification . Landlord hereby certifies to Tenant that as of the Commencement Date the Premises will, have been designed and built to (1) comply with then applicable Governmental Requirements and then current customary interpretations of any applicable handicapped accessibility laws (assuming customary office use and not any particular use of Tenant); (2) be free of any latent defects for a period of one (1) year following the Commencement Date; and (3) provide the utility capacities set forth in the Plans. If the Premises do not so comply, Landlord will, at Landlord’s cost, take such action as may be reasonably necessary to cause such compliance. If such certification is not accurate or Landlord otherwise fails to so comply, Tenant may recover its actual damages, but not punitive or other damages.

4. PROJECT SERVICES .

Landlord shall, at Landlord’s cost and expense (subject to Paragraph 2 hereof), furnish services as follows:

A. Heating and Air Conditioning . During the normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, Landlord shall furnish (i) air conditioning within the limits and ranges set forth on the Plans and the work letter, and (ii) heat within the limits and ranges set forth on the Plans and the work letter. Landlord’s obligations hereunder shall be diminished to the extent that Tenant adversely affects the temperature maintained by the heating and air conditioning system by operating its equipment. If Tenant installs such equipment, Landlord may install supplementary air conditioning units in the Premises, and Tenant shall pay to Landlord upon demand as Additional Rent the cost of installation, operation and maintenance thereof. See paragraph below for after hours HVAC provisions.

 

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Landlord shall furnish heating and air conditioning after business hours if Tenant provides Landlord reasonable prior notice, and pays Landlord all then current charges for such additional heating or air conditioning. The changes for after hours HVAC service will be no greater than the actual cost per hour per floor charged to Landlord by the local utility company for such service.

B. Elevators . Landlord shall provide passenger elevator service during normal business hours to Tenant in common with Landlord and all other tenants. Landlord shall provide limited passenger service at other times, except in case of an emergency. Landlord shall, at no cost to Tenant, provide freight access at such times as Tenant shall reasonably require, and subject to such restrictions, as Landlord may reasonably require.

C. Electricity . Landlord shall provide sufficient electricity to operate normal office lighting and equipment. The Building has been designed with the electrical capacity set forth in the Plans. Tenant shall not install or operate in the Premises any electrically operated equipment or other machinery, other than business machines and equipment normally employed for general office use which do not require high electricity consumption for operation, without obtaining the prior written consent of Landlord, If any or all of Tenant’s equipment requires electricity consumption in excess of that which is necessary to operate normal office equipment, such consumption (including consumption for computer or telephone rooms and special HVAC equipment) shall be submetered by Landlord at Tenant’s expense, and Tenant shall reimburse Landlord as Additional Rent for the cost of its submetered consumption based upon Landlord’s average cost of electricity. Such additional rent shall be in addition to Tenant’s obligations pursuant to Section 2A(2) to pay its Proportionate Share of Operating Costs and Section 2A(4) to pay its Proportionate Share of Electrical Costs.

D. Water . Landlord shall furnish hot and cold tap water for drinking and toilet purposes. Tenant shall pay Landlord for water furnished for any other purpose as Additional Rent at rates fixed by Landlord. Tenant shall not permit water to be wasted.

E. Janitorial Service . Landlord shall furnish janitorial service as generally provided to other tenants in the Building and in accordance with the standards set forth on Appendix H.

F. Security Service . Landlord shall provide security service for the Building consistent with that of comparable office buildings in the vicinity, with no warranty or liability, except for Landlord’s gross negligence or willful misconduct, respecting the effectiveness of the service.

G. Parking . Tenant shall be allocated surface parking spaces at the ratio of one space for every 172 r.s.f. within the Premises. Such parking spaces will be provided free of charge during the Lease Term. The location of the surface parking areas are shown on the Plans.

H. Interruption of Services . If any of the Building equipment or machinery ceases to function properly for any cause Landlord shall use reasonable diligence to repair the Same promptly. Landlord’s inability to furnish, to any extent, the Project services set forth in this Section 4, or any cessation thereof resulting from any causes, including any entry for repairs pursuant to this Lease, and any renovation, redecoration or rehabilitation of any area of the Building shall not render Landlord liable for damages, except for Landlord’s negligence or willful misconduct, to either person or property or for interruption or loss to Tenant’s business, nor be construed as an eviction of Tenant, nor work an abatement of any portion of rent, nor relieve Tenant from fulfillment of any covenant or agreement hereof. However, in the event that an interruption of the Project services set forth in this Section 4 causes the Premises to be untenantable for a period of at least ten (10) consecutive business days (or, as to air conditioning service, five (5) consecutive business days), monthly Rent shall be thereafter abated proportionately.

 

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5. ALTERATIONS AND REPAIRS .

A. Landlord’s Consent and Conditions .

Tenant shall not make any improvements or alterations to the Premises (the “ Work ”) without in each instance submitting plans and specifications for the Work to Landlord and obtaining Landlord’s prior written consent (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld) unless (a) the cost thereof is less than $20,000, (b) such Work does not impact the base structural components or, in Landlord’s reasonable opinion, adversely affects systems of the Building, (c) such Work will not materially adversely impact any other tenant’s premises, and (d) such Work does not involve changes to the exterior appearance of the Premises. Tenant shall, except as to the Initial Improvements, pay Landlord’s reasonable out-of-pocket costs incurred for review of the plans and all other items submitted by Tenant. Landlord will be deemed to be acting reasonably in withholding its consent for any Work which (a) impacts the base structural components or, in Landlord’s reasonable opinion, adversely affects systems of the Building, (b) materially adversely impacts any other tenant’s premises, or (c) involves changes to the exterior appearance of the Premises. The Work does not include merely decorative alterations such as painting, carpeting, floor covering, furniture movement, cabling and computer and telephone installation to the extent same do not impact base structural systems or, in Landlord’s reasonable opinion, adversely affect the systems of the Building.

Tenant, shall except as to the Initial Improvements, reimburse Landlord for reasonable out-of-pocket costs incurred for review of the plans and all other items submitted by Tenant. Tenant shall pay for the cost of all Work. All Work shall become the property of Landlord upon its installation, except for Tenant’s trade fixtures and for items which Landlord requires Tenant to remove at Tenant’s cost at the termination of the Lease pursuant to Section 3E.

The following requirements shall apply to all Work:

(1) Prior to commencement, Tenant shall furnish to Landlord building permits, and certificates of insurance reasonably satisfactory to Landlord.

(2) Tenant shall perform all Work so as to maintain peace and harmony among other contractors serving the Project and shall take all reasonable measures so as to avoid interference with other work to be performed or services to be rendered in the Project.

(3) The Work shall be performed in a good and workmanlike manner, meeting the standard for construction and quality of materials in the Building, and shall comply with all insurance requirements and all applicable governmental laws, ordinances and regulations (“ Governmental Requirements ”).

(4) Tenant shall perform all Work so as to minimize or prevent disruption to other tenants, and Tenant shall comply with all reasonable requests of Landlord in response to complaints from other tenants.

(5) Tenant shall perform all Work in compliance with Landlord’s “Policies, Rules and Procedures for Construction Projects” in effect at the time the Work is performed.

(6) Tenant shall permit Landlord to supervise all Work. Landlord may charge a supervisory fee not to exceed five percent (5%) of labor, material, and all other costs of the Work, if Landlord’s employees or contractors perform the Work. The foregoing does not apply to Work which does not require Landlord’s prior consent nor the Initial Improvements.

(7) Upon completion, Tenant shall furnish Landlord with contractor’s affidavits and full and final statutory waivers of liens, as-built plans and specifications, and receipted bills covering all labor and materials, and all other close-out documentation required in Landlord’s “Policies, Rules and Procedures for Construction Projects”.

 

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B. Damage to Systems . If any part of the mechanical, electrical or other systems in the Premises shall be damaged, Tenant shall promptly notify Landlord, and Landlord shall repair such damage. Landlord may also at any reasonable time make any repairs or alterations which Landlord deems necessary for the safety or protection of the Project, or which Landlord is required to make by any court or pursuant to any Governmental Requirement and, if Landlord fails to do so, Tenant may pursue its self-help and offset rights under Section 22 below. Tenant shall at its expense make all other repairs necessary to keep the Premises, and Tenant’s fixtures and personal property, in good order, condition and repair; to the extent Tenant fails to do so (after expiration of all applicable notice and cure periods), Landlord may make such repairs itself. The cost of any repairs made by Landlord on account of Tenant’s default, or on account of the misuse or neglect by Tenant or its invitees, contractors or agents anywhere in the Project, shall become Additional Rent payable by Tenant on demand.

C. No Liens . Tenant has no authority to cause or permit any lien or encumbrance of any kind to affect Landlord’s interest in the Project; any such lien or encumbrance shall attach to Tenant’s interest only. If any mechanic’s lien shall be filed or claim of lien made for work or materials furnished to Tenant, then Tenant shall at its expense within thirty (30) days thereafter either discharge or contest the lien or claim. If Tenant contests the lien or claim, then Tenant shall (i) within such thirty (30) day period, provide Landlord adequate security for the lien or claim, (ii) contest the lien or claim in good faith by appropriate proceedings that operate to stay its enforcement, and (iii) pay promptly any final adverse judgment entered in any such proceeding. If Tenant does not comply with these requirements (after expiration of all applicable notice and cure periods), Landlord may discharge the lien or claim, and the amount paid, as well as reasonable attorney’s fees and other expenses incurred by Landlord, shall become Additional Rent payable by Tenant on demand.

D. Ownership of Improvements . All Work as defined in this Section 5, partitions, hardware, equipment, machinery and all other improvements and all fixtures except trade fixtures, constructed in the Premises by either Landlord or Tenant, (i) shall, except as set forth in Section 5E below, become Landlord’s property upon installation without compensation to Tenant, unless Landlord consents otherwise in writing, and (ii) shall, except as set forth in Subsection 5E below, be surrendered to Landlord with the Premises at the termination of the Lease or of Tenant’s right to possession.

E. Removal at Termination . Upon the termination of this Lease or Tenant’s right of possession Tenant shall remove (and repair any damage caused by such removal) from the Project its trade fixtures, telecommunications and computer equipment, furniture, moveable equipment and other personal property, together with any other non-standard office installations designated by Landlord at the time of Tenant’s installation (e.g., stairwells, safes, etc.). Any standard office installations (i.e., walls, attached bookcases, credenzas, reception desks, etc.) attached to the Premises must remain in the Premises. If Tenant does not timely remove such property, then Tenant shall be conclusively presumed to have, at Landlord’s election (i) conveyed such property to Landlord without compensation or (ii) abandoned such property, and Landlord may dispose of or store any part thereof in any manner at Tenant’s sole cost, without waiving Landlord’s right to claim from Tenant all expenses arising out of Tenant’s failure to remove the property, and without liability to Tenant or any other person. Landlord shall have no duty to be a bailee of any such personal property. If Landlord elects abandonment, Tenant shall pay to Landlord, upon demand, any expenses incurred for disposition.

F. Satellite Dish . Tenant may at its sole cost install, maintain, and from time to time replace a satellite dish (a “ Dish ”) on the roof of the Building, provided that Tenant shall obtain Landlord’s prior reasonable approval of the proposed size, weight and location of the Dish and method for fastening the Dish to the roof, and that Tenant will at its sole cost comply with all Governmental Requirements and the conditions of any bond or warranty maintained by Landlord on the roof. Landlord may supervise any roof penetration. Tenant shall repair any damage to the Building caused by Tenant’s installation, maintenance, replacement, use or removal of the Dish. The Dish shall remain the property of Tenant, and Tenant may remove the Dish at its cost at any time during the Term. Tenant shall remove the Dish at its cost upon expiration or termination of the Lease. Tenant shall protect, defend, indemnify and hold harmless Landlord from and against claims, damages, liabilities, costs and expenses of every kind and nature, including attorneys’ fees,

 

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incurred by or asserted against Landlord arising out of Tenant’s installation, maintenance, replacement, use or removal of the Dish.

6. USE OF PREMISES . Tenant shall use the Premises only for general office purposes and any uses ancillary thereto in compliance with all Governmental Requirements. Tenant shall not allow any hazardous use of the Premises which will increase the cost of coverage of Landlord’s insurance on the Project. The Project is currently zoned to permit office use and Landlord agrees not to change the zoning to prohibit such use. Tenant shall not allow any inflammable or explosive liquids or materials to be kept on the Premises. Tenant shall not allow any use of the Premises which would cause the value or utility of any part of the Premises to diminish or would interfere with any other Tenant or with the operation of the Project by Landlord. Tenant shall not permit any nuisance or waste upon - the Premises, or allow any offensive noise or odor in or around the Premises.

7. GOVERNMENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND BUILDING RULES . Tenant shall comply with all Governmental Requirements applying to its use of the Premises. Tenant shall also comply with all reasonable rules established for the Project from time to time by Landlord. Please see Section 3D regarding Landlord’s certification of existing compliance. The present rules and regulations are contained in Appendix B. Failure by another tenant to comply with the rules or failure by Landlord to enforce them shall not relieve Tenant of its obligation to comply with the rules or make Landlord responsible to Tenant in any way. Landlord shall use reasonable efforts to apply the rules and regulations uniformly and in a non-discriminatory manner with respect to Tenant and tenants in the Building under leases containing rules and regulations similar to this Lease. In the event of alterations and repairs performed by Tenant, Tenant shall comply with the provisions of Section 5 of this Lease and such other rules as Landlord may reasonably require.

8. WAIVER OF CLAIMS; INDEMNIFICATION; INSURANCE .

A. Waiver of Claims . To the extent permitted by law, Tenant waives any claims it may have against Landlord or its officers, directors, employees or agents for business interruption or damage to property sustained by Tenant as the result of any act or omission of Landlord to the extent covered by insurance.

To the extent permitted by law, Landlord waives any claims it may have against Tenant or its officers, directors, employees or agents for loss of rents (other than Rent) or damage to property sustained by Landlord as the result of any act or omission of Tenant to the extent covered by insurance.

B. Indemnification . Tenant shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Landlord and its officers, directors, employees and agents against any claim by any third party for injury to any person or damage to or loss of any property occurring in the Project and arising from the use of the Premises or from any other act or omission or negligence of Tenant or any of Tenant’s employees or agents. Tenant’s obligations under this section shall survive the termination of this Lease.

Landlord shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless Tenant and its officers, directors, employees and agents against any claim by any third party for damage to person or Premises or from any other act or omission or negligence of Landlord or any of Landlord’s employees or agents. Landlord’s obligations under this section shall survive the termination of this Lease.

C. Tenant’s Insurance . Tenant shall maintain insurance as follows, with such other terms, coverages and insurers, as Landlord shall reasonably require from time to time:

(1) Commercial General Liability Insurance, with (a) Contractual Liability including the indemnification provisions contained in this Lease, (b) a severability of interest endorsement, (c) limits of not less than Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) combined single limit per occurrence and not less than Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) in the aggregate for bodily injury, sickness or death, and property damage, and umbrella coverage of not less than Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000).

 

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(2) Property Insurance against “All Risks” of physical loss covering the replacement cost of all improvements, fixtures and personal property. Tenant waives all rights of subrogation, and Tenant’s property insurance shall include a waiver of subrogation in favor of Landlord.

(3) Workers’ compensation or similar insurance in form and amounts required by law, and Employer’s Liability with not less than the following limits:

 

Each Accident

   $ 500,000

Disease—Policy Limit

   $ 500,000

Disease—Each Employee

   $ 500,000

Such insurance shall contain a waiver of subrogation provision in favor of Landlord and its agents and may be under a blanket policy as long as the Premises and Landlord are specifically listed therein in a manner reasonably acceptable to Landlord.

Tenant’s insurance shall be primary and not contributory to that carried by Landlord, its agents, or mortgagee. Landlord, and if any, Landlord’s building manager or agent and ground lessor shall be named as additional insureds as respects to insurance required of the Tenant in Section 8C(1). The company or companies writing any insurance which Tenant is required to maintain under this Lease, as well as the form of such insurance, shall at all times be subject to Landlord’s approval, and any such company shall be licensed to do business in the state in which the Building is located. Such insurance companies shall have a A.M. Best rating of A VI or better.

Tenant shall cause any contractor of Tenant performing work on the Premises to maintain insurance as follows, with such other terms, coverages and insurers, as Landlord shall reasonably require from time to time:

(1) Commercial General Liability Insurance, including contractor’s liability coverage, contractual liability coverage, completed operations coverage, broad form property damage endorsement, and contractor’s protective liability coverage, to afford protection with limits, for each occurrence, of not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) with respect to personal injury, death or property damage.

(2) Workers’ compensation or similar insurance in form and amounts required by law, and Employer’s Liability with not less than the following limits:

 

Each Accident

   $ 500,000

Disease—Policy Limit

   $ 500,000

Disease—Each Employee

   $ 500,000

Such insurance shall contain a waiver of subrogation provision in favor of Landlord and its agents.

Tenant’s contractor’s insurance shall be primary and not contributory to that carried by Tenant, Landlord, their agents or mortgagees. Tenant and Landlord, and if any, Landlord’s building manager or agent, mortgagee or ground lessor shall be named as additional insured on Tenant’s contractor’s insurance policies.

D. Insurance Certificates . Tenant shall deliver to Landlord certificates evidencing all required insurance no later than five (5) days prior to the Commencement Date and each renewal date. Each certificate will provide for thirty (30) days prior written notice of cancellation to Landlord and Tenant.

E. Landlord’s Insurance . Landlord shall maintain “All-Risk” property insurance at replacement cost, including loss of rents, on the Building, and Commercial General Liability insurance policies covering the common areas of the Building, each with such terms, coverages and conditions as are normally carried by reasonably prudent owners of properties similar to the

 

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Project. With respect to property insurance, Landlord and Tenant mutually waive all rights of subrogation, and the respective “All-Risk” coverage property insurance policies carried by Landlord and Tenant shall contain enforceable waiver of subrogation endorsements.

9. FIRE AND OTHER CASUALTY .

A. Termination . If a fire or other casualty causes substantial damage to the Building or the Premises, Landlord shall engage a registered architect to certify within one (1) month of the casualty to both Landlord and Tenant the amount of time needed to restore the Building and the Premises to tenantability, using standard working methods. If the time needed exceeds twelve (12) months from the beginning of the restoration,” or two (2) months therefrom if the restoration would begin during the last twelve (12) months of the Lease, then in the case of the Premises, either Landlord or Tenant may terminate this Lease, and in the case of the Building, Landlord may terminate this Lease, by notice to the other party within ten (10) days after the notifying party’s receipt of the architect’s certificate. The termination shall be effective thirty (30) days from the date of the notice and Rent shall be paid by Tenant to that date, with an abatement for any portion of the space which has been untenantable after the casualty.

B. Restoration . If a casualty causes damage to the Building or the Premises but this Lease is not terminated for any reason, then subject to the rights of any mortgagees or ground lessors (as modified under the terms of any applicable subordination, non-disturbance and attornment agreement which will provide for, the application of such proceeds towards restoration), Landlord shall obtain the applicable insurance proceeds and diligently restore the Building and the Premises subject to current Governmental Requirements. Tenant shall replace its damaged improvements, personal property and fixtures. Rent shall be abated on a per diem basis during the restoration for any portion of the Premises which is untenantable.

10. EMINENT DOMAIN . If a part of the Project is taken by eminent domain or deed in lieu thereof which is so substantial that the Premises cannot reasonably be used by Tenant for the operation of its business, then either party may terminate this Lease effective as of the date of the taking. If any substantial portion of the Project is taken without affecting the Premises, then Landlord may terminate this Lease as of the date of such taking. Rent shall abate from the date of the taking in proportion to any part of the Premises taken. The entire award for a taking of any kind shall be paid to Landlord. Tenant may pursue a separate award for its trade fixtures and moving expenses in connection with the taking, but only if such recovery does not reduce the award payable to Landlord. All obligations accrued to the date of the taking shall be performed by each party.

11. RIGHTS RESERVED TO LANDLORD .

Landlord may exercise at any time any of the following rights respecting the operation of the Project without liability to the Tenant of any kind:

A. Name . To change the name or street address of the Building or the suite number(s) of the Premises; provided, however, Landlord agrees not to name the Building for any company in direct competition with Tenant’s then primary business operations for so long as Tenant (and/or its affiliates) occupies at least 27,500 square feet in the Building.

B. Signs . To install and maintain any signs on the exterior and in the interior of the Building, and to approve, at its sole discretion, prior to installation, any of Tenant’s signs in the Premises visible from the common areas or the exterior of the Building. The Plans will include specifications for the location and design of Tenant’s signage.

C. Window Treatments . To approve, at its discretion (except as otherwise set forth in Paragraph 7), prior to installation, any shades, blinds, ventilators or window treatments of any kind, as well as any lighting within the Premises that may be visible from the exterior of the Building or any interior common area.

 

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D. Keys . Subject to subparagraph E below, to retain and use at any time passkeys to enter the Premises or any door within the Premises. Subject to subparagraph E below, Tenant shall not alter or add any lock or bolt.

E. Access . To have access to inspect the Premises, and to perform its obligations, or make repairs, alterations, additions or improvements, as permitted by this Lease upon reasonable prior notice to Tenant, during normal business hours and with minimal interference with Tenant’s business operations. A representative of Tenant may, at Tenant’s option, be present during any such access. If Tenant complies with all of the requirements set forth in this Section, Tenant may provide its own locks to an area or areas within the Premises (the “ Secured Areas ”). At least ten (10) days prior to the creation of any Secured Area, Tenant shall notify Landlord of the exact location of such Secured Area and the name of the representative of Tenant to be contacted and the manner of contact to avoid a forcible entry. Tenant need not furnish Landlord with keys to the Secured Areas. Upon the termination of this Lease, Tenant shall surrender all keys to Landlord. Landlord shall have no obligation to provide janitorial service to the Secured Areas. If Landlord determines in its reasonable discretion that a suspected fire or flood or other emergency in the Building requires Landlord to gain access to any Secured Area, Landlord may forcibly enter. Landlord shall make a reasonable effort to contact Tenant to secure access, but Landlord shall not be obligated to contact Tenant.

F. Preparation for Reoccupancy . To decorate, remodel, repair, alter or otherwise prepare the Premises for reoccupancy at any time following Tenant’s default (after the expiration of any applicable notice and cure period and Landlord’s exercise of its right to terminate this Lease or Tenant’s possession), without relieving Tenant of any obligation to pay Rent.

G. Heavy Articles . To approve the weight, size, placement and time and manner of movement within the Building of any safe, central filing system or other heavy article of Tenant’s property. Tenant shall move its property entirely at its own risk. The Building has been designed with the floor load capacity referred to on the Plans.

H. Show Premises . To show the Premises to prospective purchasers, tenants (only during the last 6 months of the Term), brokers, lenders, investors, rating agencies or others at any reasonable time, provided that Landlord gives prior notice to Tenant and does not unreasonably interfere with Tenant’s use of the Premises. Tenant may, at Tenant’s option, have a representative present during any such showing.

I. Relocation of Tenant . [Intentionally Deleted].

J. Use of Lockbox . To designate a lockbox collection agent for collections of amounts due Landlord. In that case, the date of payment of Rent or other sums shall be the date of the agent’s receipt of such payment or the date of actual collection if payment is made in the form of a negotiable instrument thereafter dishonored upon presentment. However, Landlord may reject any payment for all purposes as of the date of receipt or actual collection by mailing to Tenant within 21 days after such receipt or collection a check equal to the amount sent by Tenant.

K. Repairs and Alterations . To make repairs or alterations to the Project and in doing so transport any required material through the Premises, to close entrances, doors, corridors, elevators and other facilities in the Project, to open any ceiling in the Premises, or to temporarily suspend services or use of common areas in the Building provided that any such repairs do not unreasonably interfere with Tenant’s use of the Premises. Landlord may perform any such repairs or alterations during ordinary business hours, except that Tenant may require any Work in the Premises to be done after business hours if Tenant pays Landlord for overtime and any other expenses incurred. Landlord may do or permit any work on any nearby building, land, street, alley or way.

L. Landlord’s Agents . If Tenant is in default under this Lease, possession of Tenant’s funds or negotiation of Tenant’s negotiable instrument by any of Landlord’s agents shall not waive any breach by Tenant or any remedies of Landlord under this Lease.

 

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M. Building Services . To install, use and maintain through the Premises, pipes, conduits, wires and ducts serving the Building, provided that such installation, use and maintenance does not unreasonably interfere with Tenant’s use of the Premises.

N. Other Actions . To take any other action which Landlord deems reasonable in connection with the operation, maintenance or preservation of the Building.

12. TENANT’S DEFAULT .

Any of the following shall constitute a default by Tenant:

A. Rent Default . Tenant fails to pay any Rent when due, and such failure continues for five (5) days following the date of Landlord’s written notice to Tenant;

B. Assignment/Sublease or Hazardous Substances Default . Tenant defaults in its obligations under Section 17 Assignment and Sublease or Section 28 Hazardous Substances;

C. Other Performance Default . Tenant fails to perform any other obligation to Landlord under this Lease, and such failure continues for thirty (30) days after written notice from Landlord, except that if Tenant begins to cure its failure within the thirty (30) day period but cannot reasonably complete its cure within such period, then, so long as Tenant continues to diligently attempt to cure its failure, the thirty (30) day period shall be extended to one hundred twenty (120) days, or such lesser period as is reasonably necessary to complete the cure;

D. Credit Default . One of the following credit defaults occurs:

(1) Tenant commences any proceeding under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or relief of debts, or seeks appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for the Tenant or for any substantial part of its property, or any such proceeding is commenced against Tenant and either remains undismissed for a period of thirty days or results in the entry of an order for relief against Tenant which is not fully stayed within ninety (90) days after entry;

(2) Tenant becomes insolvent or bankrupt, does not generally pay its debts as they become due, or admits in writing its inability to pay its debts, or makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors;

(3) Any third party obtains a levy or attachment under process of law against Tenant’s leasehold interest and Tenant fails to have same removed within ninety (90) days.

13. LANDLORD REMEDIES .

A. Termination of Lease or Possession . If Tenant defaults, Landlord may elect by notice to Tenant either to terminate this Lease or to terminate Tenant’s possession of the Premises without terminating this Lease. In either case, Tenant shall immediately vacate the Premises and deliver possession to Landlord, and Landlord may repossess the Premises and may, at Tenant’s sole cost, remove any of Tenant’s signs and any of its other property, without relinquishing its right to receive Rent or any other right against Tenant. If Landlord desires to terminate this Lease as to any non-monetary default, Landlord agrees that notice of termination as to any non-monetary default will only be effective if Tenant fails to cure same within three (3) days following the date of Landlord’s notice.

B. Lease Termination Damages . If Landlord terminates the Lease, Tenant shall pay to Landlord all Rent due on or before the date of termination, plus Landlord’s reasonable estimate of the aggregate Rent that would have been payable from the date of termination through the Termination Date, reduced by the rental value of the Premises calculated as of the date of termination for the same period, taking into account reletting expenses and market concessions, both discounted to present value at the prime rate per annum then published as such in The Wall Street Journal or, if not in existence, such other newspaper having a national circulation (the “ Prime Rate ”). If Landlord shall relet any part of the Premises for any part of such period before

 

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such present value amount shall have been paid by Tenant or finally determined by a court, then the amount of Rent payable pursuant to such reletting (taking into account any concessions) shall be deemed to be the reasonable rental value for that portion of the Premises relet during the period of the reletting.

C. Possession Termination Damages . If Landlord terminates Tenant’s right to possession without terminating the Lease and Landlord takes possession of the Premises itself, Landlord may relet any part of the Premises for such Rent, for such time, and upon such terms as Landlord in its sole discretion shall determine, without any obligation to do so prior to renting other vacant areas in the Building. Any proceeds from reletting the Premises shall first be applied to the expenses of reletting, including redecoration, repair, alteration, advertising, brokerage, legal, and other reasonably necessary expenses. If the reletting proceeds after payment of expenses are insufficient to pay the full amount of Rent under this Lease, Tenant shall pay such deficiency to Landlord monthly upon demand as it becomes due. Any excess proceeds shall be retained by Landlord.

D. Alter Locks . If Tenant defaults, Landlord may, without notice, alter locks or other security devices at the Premises to deprive Tenant of access thereto, and Landlord shall not be required to provide a new key or right of access to Tenant.

E. Landlord’s Remedies Cumulative . All of Landlord’s remedies under this Lease shall be in addition to all other remedies Landlord may have at law or in equity. Waiver by Landlord of any breach of any obligation by Tenant shall be effective only if it is in writing, and shall not be deemed a waiver of any other breach, or any subsequent breach of the same obligation. Landlord’s acceptance of payment by Tenant shall not constitute a waiver of any breach by Tenant, and if the acceptance occurs after Landlord’s notice to Tenant, or termination of the Lease or of Tenant’s right to possession, the acceptance shall not affect such notice or termination. Acceptance of payment by Landlord after commencement of a legal proceeding or final judgment shall not affect such proceeding or judgment. Landlord may advance such monies and take such other actions for Tenant’s account as reasonably may be required to cure or mitigate any default by Tenant. Tenant shall immediately reimburse Landlord for any such advance, and such sums shall bear interest at the default interest rate until paid.

F. WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY . EACH PARTY WAIVES TRIAL BY JURY IN THE EVENT OF ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING BROUGHT BY THE OTHER IN CONNECTION WITH THIS LEASE. EACH PARTY SHALL BRING ANY ACTION AGAINST THE OTHER IN CONNECTION WITH THIS LEASE IN A FEDERAL OR STATE COURT LOCATED US DALLAS COUNTY, TEXAS, CONSENTS TO THE JURISDICTION OF SUCH COURTS, AND WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO HAVE ANY PROCEEDING TRANSFERRED FROM SUCH COURTS ON THE GROUND OF IMPROPER VENUE OR INCONVENIENT FORUM.

G. Litigation Costs . Tenant shall pay Landlord’s reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs in enforcing this Lease, whether or not suit is filed. In the event of any litigation concerning this Lease, the non-prevailing party will reimburse the prevailing party’s reasonable attorneys’ fees, reasonable disbursements and court costs.

H. Reletting . Tenant acknowledges that Landlord has entered into this Lease in reliance upon, among other matters, Tenant’s agreement and continuing obligation to pay all Rent due throughout the Term. As a result, Tenant hereby knowingly and voluntarily waives, after advice of competent counsel, any duty of Landlord (and any affirmative defense based upon such duty) following any default to relet the Premises or otherwise mitigate Landlord’s damages arising from such default. If such waiver is not effective under then applicable law or Landlord otherwise elects, at Landlord’s sole option, to attempt to relet all or any part of the Premises, Tenant agrees that Landlord has no obligation to: (i) relet the Premises prior to leasing any other space within the Building; (ii) relet the Premises (A) at a rental rate or otherwise on terms below market, as then determined by Landlord in its sole discretion; (B) to any entity not satisfying Landlord’s then standard financial credit risk criteria; (C) for a use (1) not consistent with Tenant’s use prior to default; (2) which would violate then applicable law or any restrictive covenant or other lease affecting the Building; (3) which would impose a greater burden upon the Building’s parking,

 

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HVAC or other facilities; and/or (4) which would involve any use of Hazardous Substances; (iii) divide the Premises, install new demising walls or otherwise reconfigure the Premises to make same more marketable; (iv) pay any leasing or other commissions arising from such reletting, unless Tenant unconditionally delivers Landlord, in good and sufficient funds, the full amount thereof in advance; (v) pay, and/or grant any allowance for, tenant finish or other costs associated with any new lease, even though same may be amortized over the applicable lease term, unless Tenant unconditionally delivers Landlord, in good and sufficient funds, the full amount thereof in advance; and/or (vi) relet the Premises, if to do so, Landlord would be required to alter other portions of the Building, make ADA-type modifications or otherwise install or replace any sprinkler, security, safety, HVAC or other Building operating systems. Tenant further acknowledges that if Tenant, notwithstanding Tenant’s waiver above, raises Landlord’s mitigation as an affirmative defense to a claim made by Landlord prior to any actual reentry of the Premises by Landlord then, in such event, Tenant will be deemed to have automatically waived, and released and discharged Landlord from and against, any and all other claims and defenses to the payment of Rent.

14. SURRENDER . Upon termination of this Lease or Tenant’s right to possession, Tenant shall return the Premises to Landlord in good order and condition, ordinary wear and casualty damage excepted. If Landlord requires Tenant to remove any alterations, then Tenant shall remove the alterations in a good and workmanlike manner and restore the Premises to its condition prior to their installation.

15. HOLDOVER . If Tenant retains possession of any part of the Premises after the Term, Tenant shall become a month-to-month tenant for the entire Premises upon all of the terms of this Lease as might be applicable to such month-to-month, tenancy, except that Tenant shall pay all of Base Rent, Operating Cost Share Rent and Tax Share Rent at one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the rate in effect immediately prior to such holdover, computed on a monthly basis for each full or partial month Tenant remains in possession, as liquidated damages for Tenant’s holdover. No acceptance of Rent or other payments by Landlord under these holdover provisions shall operate as a waiver of Landlord’s right to regain possession or any other of Landlord’s remedies.

16. SUBORDINATION TO GROUND LEASES AND MORTGAGES .

A. Subordination . This Lease shall be subordinate to any future ground lease or mortgage respecting the Project, and any amendments to such ground lease or mortgage, at the election of the ground lessor or mortgagee as the case may be, effected by notice to Tenant in the manner provided in this Lease. The subordination shall be effective upon such notice, but at the request of Landlord or ground lessor or mortgagee, Tenant shall within ten (10) days of the request, execute and deliver to the requesting party any reasonable documents provided to evidence the subordination. Any mortgagee has the right, at its option, to subordinate its mortgage to the terms of this Lease, without notice to, nor the consent of, Tenant. There are no existing mortgages or ground leases affecting the Project. As a condition to Tenant’s agreement to subordinate Tenant’s interest in this Lease to any future mortgage or ground lease, the mortgagee or ground lessor, as applicable, must deliver to Tenant a non-disturbance agreement reasonably acceptable to Tenant, providing that so long as Tenant is not in default under this Lease after the expiration of any applicable notice and cure periods, Tenant may remain in possession of the Premises under the terms of this Lease, even if the ground lessor should terminate the ground lease or if the mortgagee or its successor should acquire Landlord’s title to the Project.

B. Termination of Ground Lease or Foreclosure of Mortgage . If any ground lease is terminated or mortgage foreclosed or deed in lieu of foreclosure given and the ground lessor, mortgagee, or purchaser at a foreclosure sale shall thereby become the owner of the Project, Tenant shall attorn to such ground lessor or mortgagee or purchaser without any deduction or set off by Tenant, and this Lease shall continue in effect as a direct lease between Tenant and such ground lessor, mortgagee or purchaser. The ground lessor or mortgagee or purchaser shall be liable as Landlord only during the time such ground lessor or mortgagee or purchaser is the owner of the Project. At the request of Landlord, ground lessor or mortgagee, Tenant shall execute and

 

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deliver within ten (10) days of the request any document furnished by the requesting party to evidence Tenant’s agreement to attorn.

C. Security Deposit . Any ground lessor or mortgagee shall be responsible for the return of any security deposit by Tenant, if any, only to the extent the security deposit is received by such ground lessor or mortgagee.

D. Notice and Right to Cure . The Project is subject to any ground lease and mortgage identified with name and address of ground lessor or mortgagee in Appendix D to this Lease (as the same may be amended from time to time by written notice to Tenant). Tenant agrees to send by registered or certified mail to any ground lessor or mortgagee identified either in such Appendix or in any later notice from Landlord to Tenant a copy of any notice of default sent by Tenant to Landlord. If Landlord fails to cure such default within the required time period under this Lease, but ground lessor or mortgagee begins to cure within ten (10) days after such period and proceeds diligently to complete such cure, then ground lessor or mortgagee shall have such additional time as is necessary to complete such cure, including any time necessary to obtain possession if possession is necessary to cure, and Tenant shall not begin to enforce its remedies so long as the cure is being diligently pursued.

E. Definitions . As used in this Section 16, “mortgage” shall include “deed of trust” and/or “trust deed” and “mortgagee” shall include “beneficiary” and/or “trustee”, “mortgagee” shall include the mortgagee of any ground lessee, and “ground lessor”, “mortgagee”, and “purchaser at a foreclosure sale” shall include, in each case, all of its successors and assigns, however remote.

17. ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLEASE .

A. In General . Tenant shall not, without the prior consent of Landlord in each case, (i) make or allow any assignment or transfer, by operation of law or otherwise, of any part of Tenant’s interest in this Lease, (ii) grant or allow any lien or encumbrance, by operation of law or otherwise, upon any part of Tenant’s interest in this Lease, (iii) sublet any part of the Premises, or (iv) permit anyone other than Tenant and its employees to occupy any part of the Premises. Tenant shall remain primarily liable for all of its obligations under this Lease, notwithstanding any assignment, subletting or transfer under this Paragraph 17 or otherwise. No consent granted by Landlord shall be deemed to be a consent to any subsequent assignment or transfer, lien or encumbrance, sublease or occupancy. Tenant shall pay all of Landlord’s attorneys’ fees and other expenses incurred in connection with any consent requested by Tenant or in reviewing any proposed assignment or subletting. Any assignment or transfer, grant of lien or encumbrance, or sublease or occupancy without Landlord’s prior written consent shall be void. If Tenant shall assign this Lease or sublet the Premises in its entirety any rights of Tenant to renew this Lease, extend the Term or to lease additional space in the Project shall be extinguished thereby and will not be transferred to the assignee or subtenant, all such rights being personal to the Tenant named herein.

B. Landlord’s Consent . Landlord will not unreasonably withhold its consent to any proposed assignment or subletting. It shall be reasonable for Landlord to withhold its consent to any assignment or sublease if (i) Tenant is in monetary default or material non-monetary default under this Lease after the expiration of all applicable cure periods, (ii) the proposed assignee or sublessee is a tenant in the Project or an affiliate of such a tenant or a party that Landlord is then actively involved in negotiations as a prospective tenant in the Project, (iii) the financial responsibility, nature of business, and character of the proposed assignee or subtenant are not all reasonably satisfactory to Landlord, (iv) in the reasonable judgment of Landlord the purpose for which the assignee or subtenant intends to use the Premises (or a portion thereof) is not in keeping with Landlord’s standards for the Building or are in violation of the terms of this Lease or any other leases in the Project, or (v) the proposed assignee or subtenant is a government entity. The foregoing shall not exclude any other reasonable basis for Landlord to withhold its consent.

C. Procedure . Tenant shall notify Landlord of any proposed assignment or sublease at least ten (10) business days prior to its proposed effective date. The notice shall include the name and address of the proposed assignee or subtenant, its corporate affiliates in the case of a

 

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corporation and its partners in a case of a partnership, an execution copy of the proposed assignment or sublease, and sufficient information to permit Landlord to determine the financial responsibility and character of the proposed assignee or subtenant. As a condition to any effective assignment of this Lease, the assignee shall execute and deliver in form reasonably satisfactory to Landlord at least five (5) business days prior to the effective date of the assignment, an assumption of all of the obligations of Tenant under this Lease. As a condition to any effective sublease, subtenant shall execute and deliver in form reasonably satisfactory to Landlord at least five (5) business days prior to the effective date of the sublease, an agreement to comply with all of Tenant’s obligations under this Lease, and at Landlord’s option, an agreement (except for the economic obligations which subtenant will undertake directly to Tenant) to attorn to Landlord (and if Landlord requests such attornment, Landlord must recognize such subtenant) under the terms of the sublease in the event this Lease terminates before the sublease expires.

D. Change of Management or Ownership . Any transfer of the direct or indirect power to affect the management or policies of Tenant or direct or indirect change in 50% or more of the ownership interest in Tenant shall constitute an assignment of this Lease.

E. Excess Payments . If Tenant shall assign this Lease or sublet any part of the Premises, except under Clause G. below, for consideration in excess of the pro-rata portion of Rent applicable to the space subject to the assignment or sublet, less any actual out-of-pocket costs incurred by Tenant, and payable to non-affiliated third parties, in connection therewith (i.e., brokerage commissions, tenant finish costs, legal fees, advertising costs, work allowances, free rent and marketing expenses, all of which must be amortized over the applicable lease term), then Tenant shall pay to Landlord as Additional Rent 50% of any such excess immediately upon receipt.

F. Recapture . [Intentionally Deleted].

G. Related Entity . If Landlord has not elected to terminate this Lease or Tenant’s right to possession in accordance with the provisions of this Lease, Tenant may assign this Lease to an entity into which Tenant is merged or consolidated or to an entity to which substantially all of Tenant’s assets are transferred through a public offering on a recognized exchange or to any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with a Tenant, without first obtaining Landlord’s written consent, if Tenant notifies Landlord at least ten (10) business days prior to the proposed transaction, providing information reasonably satisfactory to Landlord in order to determine the relationship with Tenant. HFS, Incorporated or, if applicable, its successor by merger, consolidation, public offering or otherwise, will at all times remain primarily liable under this Lease, as amended from time to time, following any such transfer.

18. CONVEYANCE BY LANDLORD . If Landlord shall at any time transfer its interest in the Project or this Lease, Landlord shall be released of any obligations occurring after such transfer (as long as Landlord’s successor assumes such liability), except the obligation to return to Tenant any security deposit not delivered to its transferee, and Tenant shall look solely to Landlord’s successors for performance of such obligations. This Lease shall not be affected by any such transfer.

19. ESTOPPEL CERTIFICATE . Each party shall, as soon as reasonably practical but in no event beyond twenty-five (25) days of receiving a request from the other party, execute, acknowledge in recordable form, and deliver to the other party or its designee a certificate stating, subject to a specific statement of any applicable exceptions, that the Lease as amended to date is in full force and effect, that the Tenant is paying Rent and other charges on a current basis, and that to the best of the knowledge of the certifying party, the other party has committed no uncured defaults and has no offsets or claims. The certifying party may also be required to state the date of commencement of payment of Rent, the Commencement Date, the Termination Date, the Base Rent, the current Operating Cost Share Rent, Tax Share Rent and Electrical Cost Share Rent estimates, the status of any improvements required to be completed by Landlord, the amount of any security deposit, and such other matters as may be reasonably requested.

20. SECURITY DEPOSIT . [Intentionally Deleted.]

 

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21. FORCE MAJEURE . Neither party shall be in default under this Lease to the extent such party is unable to perform any of its obligations on account of any strike or labor problem, energy shortage, governmental pre-emption or prescription, national emergency, or any other cause of any kind beyond the reasonable control of such party (“ Force Majeure ’”). This paragraph does not, however, apply to any monetary obligations “under this Lease, including Tenant’s obligation to pay Rent and insure the Premises.

22. LANDLORD’S DEFAULT . If Landlord fails to perform its obligations under this Lease and such failure continues for a period of thirty (30) days following the date of Tenant’s written notice to Landlord specifying such default (or such longer period as may be reasonably necessary to cure such default, as long as Landlord continues to exercise reasonable efforts to cure same) then in such event Tenant may perform same. In such event Landlord will reimburse Tenant for all third party costs actually incurred by Tenant to cure such default and, if Landlord fails to pay same within thirty (30) days following the date of Tenant’s notice specifying such costs and including copies of all relevant invoices therefor, then Tenant may offset same against Rent next becoming due thereafter. In no event, however, will Tenant have any right to terminate this Lease for any default by Landlord, except as provided on Appendix C. Tenant may act sooner in the event of an emergency involving imminent risk of death, personal injury and property damage as long as Tenant has first taken reasonable measures to notify Landlord, and, once the emergency has come under control, permits Landlord to control any remaining corrective measures.

23. NOTICES . All notices, consents, approvals and similar communications to be given by one party to the other under this Lease, shall be given in writing, mailed or personally delivered as follows:

A. Landlord . To Landlord as follows:

CarrAmerica Realty, L.P.

c/o Carr America Realty Corporation

14901 Quorum Drive, Suite 100

Dallas, Texas 75240

Attn: William H. Vanderstraaten

with a copy to:

CarrAmerica Realty Corporation

1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20006

Attn: Lease Administration

or to such other person at such other address as Landlord may designate by notice to Tenant.

B. Tenant . To Tenant as follows:

c/o HFS Mobility Services, Inc.

40 Apple Ridge Road

Danbury, Connecticut 06810

Attn: Director of Real Estate Facilities

with copies to:

HFS Real Estate Division

HFS Incorporated

6 Sylvan Way

Parsippany, New Jersey 07054-0278

Attn: Senior Vice President and General Counsel

and

Battle Fowler LLP

75 East 55th Street

New York, New York 10032

Attention: Bradley A. Kaufman, Esq.

or to such other person at such other address as Tenant may designate by notice to Landlord.

 

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Mailed notices shall be sent by United States certified mail, or by a reputable national overnight courier service, postage prepaid. Mailed notices shall be deemed to have been given on the date of first attempted delivery.

24. QUIET POSSESSION . So long as no default has occurred beyond any applicable notice period and Landlord has not exercised its termination rights hereunder, Tenant shall enjoy peaceful and quiet possession of the Premises against any party claiming through the Landlord.

25. REAL ESTATE BROKER . Each party represents to the other that such party has not dealt with any real estate broker with respect to this Lease except for any broker(s) listed in the Schedule, and no other broker is in any way entitled to any broker’s Fee or other payment in connection with this Lease. Landlord agrees to pay any commissions owed to the brokers identified in such Schedule pursuant to a separate written agreement with such brokers. Each party shall indemnify and defend the other against any claims by any other broker or third party for any payment of any kind in connection with this Lease attributable to the acts of such party.

26. MISCELLANEOUS .

A. Successors and Assigns . Subject to the limits on Tenant’s assignment contained in Section 17, the provisions of this Lease shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of all successors and assigns of Landlord and Tenant.

B. Date Payments Are Due . Except for Base Rent, estimated payments of Additional Rent and other payments to be made by Tenant under this Lease which are due upon demand, Tenant shall pay to Landlord any amount for which Landlord renders a statement of account within thirty (30) days of Tenant’s receipt of Landlord’s statement.

C. Meaning of “Landlord”, “Re-Entry, “including” and “Affiliate” . The term “Landlord” means only the owner of the Project and the lessor’s interest in this Lease from time to time. The words “re-entry” and “re-enter” are not restricted to their technical legal meaning. The words “including” and similar words shall mean “without limitation.” The word “affiliate” shall mean a person or entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the applicable entity, “Control” shall mean the power directly or indirectly, by contract or otherwise, to direct the management and policies of the applicable entity.

D. Time of the Essence . Time is of the essence of each provision of this Lease.

E. No Option . This document shall not be effective for any purpose until it has been executed and delivered by both parties; execution and delivery by one party shall not create any option or other right in the other party.

F. Severability . The unenforceability of any provision of this Lease shall not affect any other provision,

G. Governing Law . This Lease shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the state in which the Project is located, without regard to the principles of conflicts of laws.

H. Lease Modification . Tenant agrees to modify this Lease in any way reasonably requested by a mortgagee which does not cause increased expense or obligation to Tenant or otherwise adversely affect Tenant’s interests under this Lease.

 

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I. No Oral Modification . No modification of this Lease shall be effective unless it is a written modification signed by both parties.

J. Landlord’s Right to Cure . If Landlord breaches any of its obligations under this Lease, Tenant shall notify Landlord in writing and shall take no action respecting such breach so long as Landlord immediately begins to cure the breach and diligently pursues such cure to its completion. Landlord may cure any default by Tenant; any expenses incurred shall become Additional Rent due from Tenant on demand by Landlord.

K. Captions . The captions used in this Lease shall have no effect on the construction of this Lease.

L. Authority . Landlord and Tenant each represents to the other that it has full power and authority to execute and perform this Lease.

M. Landlord’s Enforcement of Remedies . Landlord may enforce any of its remedies under this Lease either in its own name or through an agent.

N. Entire Agreement . This Lease, together with all Appendices, constitutes the entire agreement between the parties. No representations or agreements of any kind have been made by either party which are not contained in this Lease.

O. Landlord’s Title . Landlord’s title shall always be paramount to the interest of the Tenant, and nothing in this Lease shall empower Tenant to do anything which might in any way impair Landlord’s title.

P. Light and Air Rights . Landlord does not grant in this Lease any rights to light and air in connection with Project. Landlord reserves to itself, the Land, the Building below the improved floor of each floor of the Premises, the Building above the ceiling of each floor of the Premises, the exterior of the Premises and the areas on the same floor outside the Premises, along with the areas within the Premises required for the installation and repair of utility lines and other items required to serve other tenants of the Building.

Q. Singular and Plural . Wherever appropriate in this Lease, a singular term shall be construed to mean the plural where necessary, and a plural term the singular. For example, if at any time two parties shall constitute Landlord or Tenant, then the relevant term shall refer to both parties together.

R. No Recording by Tenant . Tenant shall not record in any public records any memorandum or any portion of this Lease.

S. Exclusivity . Landlord does not grant to Tenant in this Lease any exclusive right except the right to occupy its Premises.

T. No Construction Against Drafting Party . The rule of construction that ambiguities are resolved against the drafting party shall not apply to this Lease.

U. Survival . All obligations of Landlord and Tenant under this Lease shall survive the termination of this Lease.

V. Rent Not Based on Income . No rent or other payment in respect of the Premises shall be based in any way upon net income or profits from the Premises. Tenant may not enter into or permit any sublease or license or other agreement in connection with the Premises which provides for a rental or other payment based on net income or profit.

W. Building Manager and Service Providers . Landlord may perform any of its obligations under this Lease through its employees or third parties hired by the Landlord.

X. Late Charge and Interest on Late Payments . Without limiting the provisions of Section 12A, if Tenant fails to pay any installment of Rent or other charge to be paid by Tenant

 

23


pursuant to this Lease when same becomes due and payable, then Tenant shall pay a late charge equal to two percent (2%) of the amount due if not paid by the due date, or, if not paid within five (5) business days following written notice, then five percent (5%) of the amount due. In addition, interest shall be paid by Tenant to Landlord on any late payments of Rent made after five (5) business days from the date due at the rate provided in Section 2D(2) from the date due until paid. Such late charge and interest shall constitute additional Rent due and payable by Tenant to Landlord upon the date of payment of the delinquent payment referenced above.

27. UNRELATED BUSINESS INCOME . If Landlord is advised by its counsel at any time that any part of the payments by Tenant to Landlord under this Lease may be characterized as unrelated business income under the United States Internal Revenue Code and its regulations, then Tenant shall enter into any amendment proposed by Landlord to avoid such income, so long as the amendment does not require Tenant to make more payments or accept fewer services from Landlord, than this Lease provides and is otherwise in form reasonably acceptable to Tenant.

28. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES . Landlord certifies to Tenant that, to Landlord’s current actual knowledge, there are no Hazardous Substances located at the Project, except as disclosed in Landlord’s environmental report or Hazardous Substances customarily used in the operation of comparable office buildings (e.g., janitorial supplies). Landlord shall not, except as aforesaid, dispose of any Hazardous Substances in or near the Project. Landlord shall take all measures, consistent with those taken by the owners of other office buildings similar and within proximity to the Project, to prohibit other tenants from disposing of Hazardous Substances, but Landlord will have no liability should any such tenant dispose of same in violation of its lease or otherwise. Tenant shall not cause or permit any Hazardous Substances to be brought upon, produced, stored, used, discharged or disposed of in or near the Project unless Landlord has consented to such storage or use in its sole discretion. Tenant has no responsibility for any Hazardous Substances brought upon, produced, stored, used, discharged or disposed of in or near the Project, except by Tenant or its employees, agents and affiliates. “ Hazardous Substances ” include those hazardous substances described in the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, 42 U.S.C. Section 9601 et seq., the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. Section 6901 et seq., any other applicable federal, state or local law, and the regulations adopted under these laws. If any lender or governmental agency shall require testing for Hazardous Substances in the Premises, Tenant shall pay for such testing.

29. EXCULPATION . Landlord shall have no personal liability under this Lease; its liability shall be limited to its interest in the Project (including the income and proceeds therefrom), and shall not extend to any other property or assets of the Landlord. In no event shall any officer, director, employee, agent, shareholder, partner, member or beneficiary of Landlord be personally liable for any of Landlord’s obligations hereunder.

30. WAIVER OF CONSUMER RIGHTS . TENANT ACKNOWLEDGES THAT TENANT IS A “BUSINESS CONSUMER” FOR PURPOSES OF THE TEXAS DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES ACT, BUT SHOULD SUCH DETERMINATION BE HELD OTHERWISE BY A FINAL JUDGMENT OF A COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION THE FOLLOWING SHALL APPLY: TENANT WAIVES ALL OF TENANT’S RIGHTS UNDER THE DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES - CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT, SECTION 17.41 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND COMMERCE CODE, A LAW THAT GIVES CONSUMERS SPECIAL RIGHTS AND PROTECTIONS. AFTER CONSULTATION WITH AN ATTORNEY OF TENANT’S OWN SELECTION, TENANT VOLUNTARILY CONSENTS TO THE FOREGOING WAIVER.

LANDLORD AND TENANT EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY THAT THE PREMISES ARE SUITABLE FOR TENANT’S INTENDED COMMERCIAL PURPOSE, AND TENANT’S OBLIGATION TO PAY RENT HEREUNDER IS NOT DEPENDENT UPON THE CONDITION OF THE PREMISES OR THE PERFORMANCE BY LANDLORD OF ITS OBLIGATIONS HEREUNDER, AND, EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, TENANT SHALL CONTINUE TO PAY THE RENT, WITHOUT ABATEMENT, SETOFF, DEDUCTION, NOTWITHSTANDING ANY BREACH BY LANDLORD OF ITS DUTIES OR OBLIGATIONS HEREUNDER, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED.

 

24


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Lease.

 

LANDLORD:

 

CARRAMERICA REALTY, L.P.,

a Delaware limited partnership

By:  

CarrAmerica Realty GP Holdings, Inc.

its general partner

  By:   /s/ Brian K. Fields
  Print Name: Brian K. Fields
  Print Title:   Chief Financial Officer

 

TENANT:

HFS, INCORPORATED,

a Delaware corporation

By:   /s/ Paul M. McNicol
Print Name: Paul M. McNicol
Print Title:   Senior Vice President

 

25

Exhibit 10.17(a)

 

Re:   

Royal Ridge Office Center

Las Colinas, Texas             

FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE

 

THE STATE OF TEXAS

   §   
   §    KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:

COUNTY OF DALLAS

   §   

THIS FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE (this “ Amendment ”) has been executed as of this 27 th day of January, 1999, by CARRAMERICA REALTY, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“ Landlord ”) and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC., a Delaware corporation (“Tenant”), successor in interest to HFS, INCORPORATED, (“HFS”).

R E C I T A L S :

A. Landlord and HFS have heretofore executed that certain Lease dated as of November 19, 1997 (such Lease Agreement is hereinafter called the “ Lease ”), pursuant to which Tenant leased from Landlord certain premises containing 58,331 rentable square feet (the “ Premises ”) in that certain building now known as Royal Ridge Office Center, Las Colinas, Texas and more particularly described in the Lease (the “ Building ”). Unless otherwise defined herein, all initially capitalized terms will have the respective meanings assigned thereto in the Lease.

B. Landlord and Tenant desire to execute this Amendment in order to evidence their agreement to (i) evidence the reduction in the area of the Premises by approximately 18,552 rentable square feet (the “Surrender Space”); and (ii) make certain other resulting amendments to the Lease, all as more particularly set forth in this Amendment.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, Landlord and Tenant agree as follows:

 

FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE - Page 1 of 4


Article I

CERTAIN AMENDMENTS

SECTION 1.01. Landlord and Tenant hereby stipulate that (i) as of the Commencement Date and prior to the execution of this Amendment, the Premises contained 58,331 rentable square feet, and (ii) the Commencement Date was July 1, 1998. Page 1, Schedule, Paragraph 3, is hereby amended by substituting “39,779” for “55,000” in the first line thereof and the Premises are outlined in Appendix A attached hereto and made a part hereof for all purposes.

SECTION 1.02. Page 1, Schedule, Paragraph 4 is hereby amended by substituting “38.94%” for “54%” in the first line thereof, and by substituting “102,151” for “101,933” in the first line thereof.

SECTION 1.03. Page 1, Schedule, Paragraph 13 is hereby deleted and replaced by the following:

13. Base Rent .

 

Period

   Annual Base
Rent Rate
Per Sq. Ft.
    Monthly
Base Rent

The date of this Amendment to June 30, 2001

   $ 16.75 *   $ 55,524.85

July 1, 2001 - June 30, 2003

   $ 17.25 *   $ 57,182.31

 

* subject to adjustment per paragraph 2E of the Lease.

SECTION 1.04. Appendix G, Right of First Refusal, is hereby amended by (i) deleting the words “any remaining rentable square footage in the Building” in the third and fourth lines of Paragraph 1 thereof and substituting “the area described in Attachment A hereto” therefor, (ii) by deleting “46,933” in the fifth line thereof and substituting “23,936” therefor and (iii) by adding Attachment A hereto as Attachment A to Appendix G.

 

FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE - Page 2 of 4


SECTION 1.05. Appendix I, Partial Termination Option, is hereby deleted in its entirety for all purposes.

SECTION 1.06. Landlord and Tenant hereby release and discharge each other from all duties, obligations and covenants under the Lease with respect to the Surrender Space, which accrue after the date of this Amendment, except as set forth in Paragraph 4 of that certain Agreement dated of even date herewith by and among Landlord, Tenant and Freddie Mac, as same may be amended.

SECTION 1.07. The Lease shall be and hereby is further amended wherever necessary, even though not specifically referred to herein, in order to give effect to the terms of this Amendment.

Article II

MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 2.01. The Lease, as amended hereby, is hereby ratified, confirmed and deemed in full force and effect in accordance with its terms. Each party represents to the other that such party (a) is currently unaware of any default by the other party under the Lease; and (b) has full power and authority to execute and deliver this Amendment and this Amendment represents a valid and binding obligation of such party enforceable in accordance with its terms.

SECTION 2.02. This Amendment shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas.

SECTION 2.03. This Amendment may be executed in multiple counterparts each of which is deemed an original but together constitute one and the same instrument. This Amendment may be executed by facsimile and each party has the right to rely upon a facsimile counterpart of this Amendment signed by the other party to the same extent as if such party had received an original counterpart.

 

FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE - Page 3 of 4


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Amendment has been executed as of (but not necessarily on) the date and year first above written.

 

    LANDLORD :
Date: 1/27/1999    

CARRAMERICA REALTY, L.P.,

a Delaware limited partnership

    By:  

CarrAmerica Realty

GP Holdings, Inc.,

its sole general partner

        By:   /s/ Robert E. Peterson
        Name:   Robert E. Peterson
        Title:   Vice President
    TENANT :
Date: 12/18/1998    

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.

a Delaware corporation

    By:   /s/ Paul M. McNicol
      Name:   Paul M. McNicol
      Title:   Senior Vice President

 

FIRST AMENDMENT TO LEASE - Page 4 of 4

Exhibit 10.17(b)

SECOND AMENDMENT OF LEASE

THIS SECOND AMENDMENT OF LEASE (this “ Amendment ”) is entered into on this 28th day of April, 2003, by and between CARR TEXAS OP, LP (“ Landlord ”), successor-in-interest to Carramerica Realty, L.P. (“ Original Landlord ”) and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC. (“ Tenant ”), successor-in-interest to HFS Incorporated (“ Original Tenant ”).

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS , Original Landlord and Original Tenant entered into that certain Lease (the “ Lease Agreement ”), dated November 19, 1997, covering approximately 58,331 square feet of rentable area in that certain building (the “ Building ”) commonly known as Royal Ridge Office Center Building 2 in Las Colinas, Texas;

WHEREAS , Original Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain First Amendment to Lease dated January 27, 1999, wherein the Premises were reduced to approximately 39,779 square feet of rentable area (the Lease Agreement, as so amended, being hereinafter referred to as the “ Lease ”);

WHEREAS , the Premises have subsequently been expanded and remeasured such that Landlord and Tenant hereby stipulate that the Premises contain 43,745 rentable square feet of area; and

WHEREAS , Landlord and Tenant desire to extend the Term of the Lease and to further modify the terms of the Lease in accordance with the terms and conditions herein provided.

NOW, THEREFORE , for and in consideration of the sum of Ten and No/100 Dollars ($10.00) and other good and valuable consideration paid by each party hereto to the other, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby mutually acknowledged, Landlord and Tenant hereby agree as follows:

1. Term . The Term of the Lease is hereby extended so that the Term shall expire on June 30, 2008. As used herein, the term “ Renewal Term ” shall mean the period commencing on May 1, 2003 and ending on June 30, 2008.

2. Base Rent . Tenant’s Base Rent for the Renewal Term shall be as follows:

 

Period

  

Annual Base

Rent Rate
Per Rentable

Square Foot

   Monthly
Base Rent

05/01/03 - 06/30/03

   $ 0.00    $ 0.00

07/01/03 - 06/30/04

   $ 13.00    $ 47,390.42

07/01/04 - 06/30/05

   $ 14.00    $ 51,035.83

07/01/05 - 06/30/06

   $ 15.00    $ 54,681.25

07/01/06 - 06/30/07

   $ 16.00    $ 58,326.67

07/01/07 - 06/30/08

   $ 18.00    $ 65,617.50

Effective as of May 1, 2003, Section 2.E of the Lease Agreement shall be deleted.

3. Base Year . The Base Year during the Renewal Term shall be the calendar year 2004. Effective as of May 1, 2003, the first sentence of the second paragraph of Section 2.C(1) of the Lease Agreement shall be amended to read as follows:

If the Project is not at least 95% occupied during any portion of any fiscal year, Landlord may adjust (an “ Equitable Adjustment ”) Operating Costs to equal what would have been incurred by Landlord had the Project been 95% occupied.

 

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4. Tenant’s Proportionate Share . Tenant’s Proportionate Share is currently 42.9154%.

5. Refurbishment Allowance . Upon execution and delivery of this Amendment, Landlord shall provide Tenant with a refurbishment allowance in an amount equal to $131,235.00, to improve and refurbish the Premises (the “ Refurbishment Work ”). If the Refurbishment Work entails more than painting, carpeting and similar cosmetic changes, Tenant shall obtain Landlord’s prior written approval of the plans and specifications therefor and the contractors who will perform such work. Landlord shall approve such contractors provided they meet Landlord’s current contractor guidelines.

6. Expansion Option .

A. Tenant shall have the option (the “ Expansion Option ”) to expand the Premises to include approximately 3,000 to 4,000 rentable square feet in the Building (the “ Expansion Space ”), the location and configuration of which shall be selected by Landlord. Tenant must exercise the Expansion Option by giving Tenant’s binding written notice thereof (“ Tenant’s Expansion Notice ”) to Landlord at any time, but in no event later than, December 31, 2003. In the event that Tenant timely elects to lease the Expansion Space, the Lease shall be amended to include the Expansion Space in the Premises with rental for the Expansion Space commencing three (3) months following delivery of Tenant’s Expansion Notice (the “ Expansion Space Rental Commencement Date ”). In the event Tenant fails to timely deliver Tenant’s Expansion Notice, Tenant shall be deemed to have waived such right and Tenant shall have no further right with respect thereto.

B. In the event that Tenant shall timely elect to lease the Expansion Space, Landlord and Tenant shall, within thirty (30) days after Tenant delivers to Landlord Tenant’s Expansion Notice, enter into a lease agreement with respect to the Expansion Space on the same terms, covenants, and conditions as are contained in this Lease, except as otherwise expressly provided herein.

C. The Base Rent rate and Base Year for the Expansion Space shall be the Base Rent rate and Base Year applicable to the Premises from time to time, and the payment of Base Rent for the Expansion Space shall commence on the Expansion Space Rental Commencement Date. Tenant’s Proportionate Share shall be adjusted to reflect the addition of the Expansion Space.

D. The Expansion Space shall be delivered to Tenant in an “as is” condition. Upon Landlord’s and Tenant’s execution of a lease amendment incorporating the Expansion Space into the Premises, Landlord shall pay to Tenant a leasehold improvement allowance (the “ Expansion Space Construction Allowance ”) to construct leasehold improvements (the “ Expansion Space Work ”) in the Expansion Space pursuant to plans and specifications approved by Landlord and Tenant (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed). The Expansion Space Work shall be performed only by contractors approved by Landlord (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed). The Expansion Space Construction Allowance shall be equal to $10.00 per rentable square foot in the Expansion Space. If the cost of the Expansion Space Work exceeds the Expansion Space Construction Allowance, Tenant may request Landlord to fund a portion of such excess cost, up to an amount equal to $10.00 per rentable square foot in the Expansion Space (the “ Additional Allowance ”), in which event the monthly Base Rent payable for the Expansion Space shall be increased by an amount equal to the Additional Allowance amortized at the rate of 8% over the remaining months in the Term as of the Expansion Space Rental Commencement Date such excess cost funded by Landlord. For example, if the Expansion Space contains 1,000 rentable square feet, the excess cost above the Expansion Space Construction Allowance equals $10,000.00 and the Expansion Space Rental Commencement Date is September 1, 2003, then Tenant’s Base Rent obligations would be increased by $208.46 per month commencing September 1, 2003 and continuing through June 30, 2008. If Tenant or its agent is managing the performance of the Expansion Space Work, then Tenant shall not become entitled to full credit for the Expansion Space Construction Allowance and Additional Allowance until such work has been substantially completed and Tenant has caused to be delivered to Landlord (i) all invoices from contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers

 

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evidencing the cost of performing the Expansion Space Work, together with unconditional lien waivers from such parties, and (ii) a certificate of occupancy from the appropriate governmental authority, if applicable to the Expansion Space Work, or evidence of governmental inspection and approval of the Expansion Space Work. Any portion of the Expansion Space Construction Allowance which remains unspent as of the first annual anniversary of the Expansion Commencement Date shall be applied to Tenant’s next accruing installments of Base Rent.

E. Tenant shall execute and deliver to Landlord, within ten days after Landlord has requested same, a letter confirming (i) the Expansion Commencement Date, (ii) that Tenant has accepted the Expansion Space, and (iii) that Landlord has performed all of its obligations with respect to the Expansion Space (except for punch-list items specified in such letter with respect to leasehold improvements performed by Landlord at Tenant’s request).

F. Notwithstanding the generality of the foregoing, the rights of Tenant and the obligations of Landlord contained in this Paragraph 6 shall apply only if no uncured default by Tenant exists at the time the right is exercised or any such obligation becomes performable. Any assignment or subletting (of more than 50% of the space) by Tenant of the Lease (except to a Related Entity), or any termination of the Lease, shall terminate the refusal right of Tenant hereby granted.

7. Right of First Refusal . Provided the Lease is then in full force and effect and there is no uncured default thereunder, Tenant shall have the on-going right of first refusal to lease additional space in the Building. Such right of first refusal shall be exercisable at the following times and upon the following conditions.

A. If during the Renewal Term, Landlord receives a bona fide offer from a prospective tenant (the “ Prospective Tenant ”) to lease premises (the “ Offered Premises ”) in the Building, and Landlord desires to accept such offer, Landlord shall notify Tenant of such fact. Tenant shall have a period of seven (7) business days from the date of delivery of such notice to notify Landlord whether Tenant elects to exercise the right granted hereby to lease the Offered Premises. If Tenant fails to give any notice to Landlord within the required seven (7) business day period, Tenant shall be deemed to have refused its right to lease all or any portion of the Offered Premises.

B. If Tenant refuses its right to lease the Offered Premises, either by giving written notice thereof or by failing to give any notice, Landlord shall thereafter have the right to lease the Offered Premises to the Prospective Tenant on such terms and provisions as may be acceptable to Landlord, provided such economic terms and provisions are not more than 5% more favorable than the terms and provisions set forth in the notice from Landlord. If Landlord and the Prospective Tenant fail to enter into a lease within 90 days following Tenant’s refusal to lease the Offered Premises, Tenant shall have the right of first refusal described herein with respect to any subsequent bona fide offers from other prospective tenants to lease the Offered Premises. If Landlord and the Prospective Tenant enter into a lease following Tenant’s refusal to lease the Offered Premises, Tenant shall have the right of first refusal described herein following any termination or expiration thereof, subject to any renewal or other rights granted to the Prospective Tenant.

C. If Tenant exercises its right to lease the Offered Premises, Landlord and Tenant shall, within thirty (30) days after Tenant delivers to Landlord notice of its election, enter into a lease agreement with respect to the Offered Premises in question on the same terms, covenants, and conditions as are contained in this Lease, except as follows:

(i) The rentable area of the Offered Premises shall be equal to the area offered to be leased by the Prospective Tenant.

(ii) The Base Rent rate to be paid for the Offered Premises shall be equal to the base rent rate offered to be paid by the Prospective Tenant, including any offered increases from time to time in such rental rate.

 

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(iii) The expenses stop for the Offered Premises shall be equal to the expense stop offered to the Prospective Tenant.

(iv) The payment of monthly installments of Base Rent with respect to the Offered Premises shall commence on the effective date of the lease of the Offered Premises as offered to the Prospective Tenant, or in the event no specific effective date was so offered, on the date mutually acceptable to Landlord and Tenant, and rent for any partial month shall be prorated.

(v) The term of the lease of the Offered Premises shall commence on the date determined pursuant to subparagraph C.(iv) above, and shall continue thereafter for the full term offered to the Prospective Tenant; provided, however, that if Tenant exercises the right of first refusal on or before April 30, 2005, the term of the lease of the Offered Premises shall be co-terminus with the Term of the Lease.

(vi) Possession of such portion of the Offered Premises shall be delivered to Tenant on the basis offered to the Prospective Tenant, provided, however, that if Tenant exercises this right of first refusal on or before April 30, 2005, the allowances and credits offered to the Prospective Tenant shall be multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which shall be the total number of months (as of the effective date of the demise of the Offered Premises and calculated as if Tenant were to timely exercise any termination right granted to Tenant now and hereafter including Paragraph 9 of this Amendment, unless such right has expired or been waived by Tenant) remaining in the Lease, and the denominator of which shall be the total number of months contained in the term of the lease offered to the Prospective Tenant (but in no event shall such fraction exceed 1). Landlord will use reasonable diligence to make the Offered Premises available to Tenant as soon after the effective date stated above as it can. Landlord shall not be liable for the failure to give possession of the Offered Premises on said date by reason of the holding over or retention of possession of any tenant, tenants, or occupants, nor shall such failure impair the validity of this Lease, nor extend the term hereof, but the rent for the Offered Premises shall be abated until possession is delivered to Tenant and such abatement shall constitute full settlement of all claims that Tenant might otherwise have against Landlord by reason of said failure to give possession of the Offered Premises to Tenant on the scheduled effective date.

D. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Tenant’s right of first refusal pursuant to this paragraph shall be subordinate to any and all rights, including without limitation, renewal rights, expansion rights, rights of first refusal and rights of first offer, under any existing lease demising premises in the Building.

E. Any assignment or subletting (of more than 50% of the space) by Tenant of the Lease (except to a Related Entity), or any termination of the Lease, shall terminate the refusal right of Tenant hereby granted.

8. Extension Options . Subject to Subsection B below, Tenant may at its option extend the Term of this Lease for two (2) successive periods of five (5) years each. Each such period is called a “ Renewal Term ”, and the first such five (5) year period is called the “ First Renewal Term ” and the second such five (5) year period is called the “ Second Renewal Term ”. Each Renewal Term shall be upon the same terms contained in the Lease excluding the provisions of Paragraph 5 of this Amendment and Appendix C of the Lease Agreement and except for the payment of Base Rent during the Renewal Term; and any reference in the Lease to the “Term” of the Lease shall be deemed to include any Renewal Term and apply thereto, unless it is expressly provided otherwise. Tenant shall have no additional extension options.

A. The Base Rent during a Renewal Term shall be the Market Rate (defined hereinafter) for such space for a term commencing on the first day of the Renewal Term. “ Market Rate ” shall mean the then prevailing market rate calculated as of the date Tenant

 

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delivers its renewal notice for a comparable term for tenants of comparable size and creditworthiness for comparable space in the Building and other first class office buildings in the vicinity of the Building taking into consideration the Market Inducements provided to Tenant. Landlord shall provide to Tenant with respect to a Renewal Term all market inducements then being offered to tenants of comparable space in the Building and comparable buildings in the vicinity of the Building, as of the commencement of the Renewal Term, taking into consideration the length of the Renewal Term, including, without limitation, free rent, tenant improvements, expense stops, base year, moving allowances, brokerage commissions and tenant improvement allowances.

B. To exercise any option, Tenant must deliver a binding notice to Landlord not less than twelve (12) months prior to the expiration of the initial Term of this Lease, or the first Renewal Term, as the case may be. Thereafter, the Market Rate for the particular Renewal Term shall be calculated pursuant to Subsection C below and Landlord shall inform Tenant of the Market Rate. Such calculations shall be final and shall not be recalculated at the actual commencement of such Renewal Term. If Tenant fails to timely give its notice of exercise, Tenant will be deemed to have waived its option to extend.

C. Market Rate shall be determined as follows:

(i) If Tenant provides Landlord with its binding notice of exercise pursuant to Subsection B above, then Landlord shall calculate and inform Tenant of the Market Rate. If Tenant rejects the Market Rate as calculated by Landlord, Tenant shall inform Landlord of its rejection within ten (10) days after Tenant’s receipt of Landlord’s calculation, and Landlord and Tenant shall commence negotiations to agree upon the Market Rate. If Tenant fails to timely reject Landlord’s calculation of the Market Rate it will be deemed to have accepted such calculation. If Landlord and Tenant are unable to reach agreement within twenty-one (21) days after Landlord’s receipt of Tenant’s notice of rejection, then the Market Rate shall be determined in accordance with (ii) below.

(ii) If Landlord and Tenant are unable to reach agreement on the Market Rate within said twenty-one (21) day period, then within seven (7) days, Landlord and Tenant shall each simultaneously submit to the other in a sealed envelope its good faith estimate of the Market Rate. If the higher of such estimates is not more than one hundred five percent (105%) of the lower, then the Market Rate shall be the average of the two. Otherwise, the dispute shall be resolved by arbitration in accordance with (iii) below.

(iii) Within seven (7) days after the exchange of estimates, the parties shall select as an arbitrator an independent MAI appraiser with at least five (5) years of experience in appraising office space in the metropolitan area in which the Project is located (a “ Qualified Appraiser ”). If the parties cannot agree on a Qualified Appraiser, then within a second period of seven (7) days, each shall select a Qualified Appraiser and within ten (10) days thereafter the two appointed Qualified Appraisers shall select a third Qualified Appraiser and the third Qualified Appraiser shall be the sole arbitrator. If one party shall fail to select a Qualified Appraiser within the second seven (7) day period, then the Qualified Appraiser chosen by the other party shall be the sole arbitrator.

(iv) Within twenty-one (21) days after submission of the matter to the arbitrator, the arbitrator shall determine the Market Rate by choosing whichever of the estimates submitted by Landlord and Tenant the arbitrator judges to be more accurate. The arbitrator shall notify Landlord and Tenant of its decision, which shall be final and binding. If the arbitrator believes that expert advice would materially assist him, the arbitrator may retain one or more qualified persons to provide expert advice. The fees of the arbitrator and the expenses of the arbitration proceeding, including the fees of any expert witnesses retained by the arbitrator, shall be paid by the party whose estimate is not selected. Each party shall pay the fees of its respective counsel and the fees of any witness called by that party.

 

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D. Tenant’s option to extend this Lease is subject to the conditions that: (i) on the date that Tenant delivers its binding notice exercising an option to extend, Tenant is not in material default under this Lease after the expiration of any applicable notice and cure periods, and (ii) Tenant shall not have assigned the Lease, or sublet any portion of the Premises under a sublease which is effective at any time during the final twelve (12) months of the initial Term or the First Renewal Term, as applicable.

9. Termination Right . If no uncured default exists upon June 30, 2006 (the “ Effective Termination Date ”‘), then Tenant may terminate this Lease upon the Effective Termination Date by delivering to Landlord, (i) no later than December 31, 2005, written notice (the “ Termination Notice ”‘) of such termination, and (ii) no later than the Effective Termination Date, an amount of money equal to the Termination Fee (as defined below). Tenant’s failure to timely notify Landlord of Tenant’s election hereunder or to timely deliver the Termination Fee to Landlord shall automatically extinguish Tenant’s right to terminate this Lease. Landlord shall furnish Tenant within ten (10) business days after delivery of the Termination Notice, the amount of the Termination Fee payable by Tenant. Notwithstanding Tenant’s early termination of this Lease pursuant to this paragraph, Tenant shall remain liable for all obligations which accrue up to the Effective Termination Date. The term “ Termination Fee ” shall mean an amount of money equal to the unamortized portion of the following costs and expenses: (i) the Refurbishment Allowance and any other allowances provided to Tenant under the Lease prior to the date that Landlord receives the Termination Notice, and (ii) the leasing commissions.

10. Tenant Estoppel . Tenant hereby confirms and ratifies the Lease, as amended hereby, acknowledges that Landlord is not in default under the Lease as of the date this Amendment is executed by Tenant and accepts the Premises “AS IS”, without benefit of further improvements except as expressly provided in this Amendment, and without warranty of suitability or fitness for a particular purpose.

11. Commissions . Tenant represents that it has dealt with no broker, agent or other person in connection with this Amendment other than Swearingen Realty Group, LLC, Daniel T. Paterson, broker (“ Broker ”) and that no broker, agent or other person brought about this Amendment (other than Broker), and Tenant shall indemnify and hold Landlord harmless from and against any and all claims, losses, costs or expenses (including attorneys’ fees and expenses) by any broker, agent or other person (except those of Broker) claiming a commission or other form of compensation by virtue of having dealt with Tenant with regard to this transaction contemplated by this Amendment. The provisions of this paragraph shall survive the expiration of the Lease Term or any renewal or extension thereof.

12. Confidentiality . Tenant agrees that Tenant shall not disclose, directly or indirectly, any of the terms, covenants, conditions or agreements set forth in the Lease, this Amendment or any subsequent amendments hereto, nor shall Tenant provide the Lease, this Amendment or any subsequent amendments hereto or any copies of same to any person, including, but not limited to, any other tenants in the Building or any agents or employees of such tenants, except that Tenant may disclose such information for valid business, legal and accounting purposes.

13. Miscellaneous .

(a) Appendix F (Extension Option) and Appendix G (Right of First Refusal) to the Lease Agreement are hereby deleted in their entirety.

(b) Any capitalized term or phrase used in this Amendment shall have the same meaning as the meaning ascribed to such term or phrase in the Lease unless expressly otherwise defined in this Amendment.

(c) In the event that the terms of the Lease conflict or are inconsistent with those of this Amendment, the terms of this Amendment shall govern.

 

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(d) Except as amended by this Amendment, the terms of the Lease remain in full force and effect.

(e) Submission of this Amendment for examination does not constitute an offer, right of first refusal, reservation of, or option for, the Premises or any other premises in the Building. This Amendment shall become effective only upon execution and delivery by both Landlord and Tenant.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , Landlord and Tenant have caused this Amendment to be executed on the date set forth above.

 

LANDLORD :

CARR TEXAS OP, LP,

a Delaware limited partnership

By:  

Carr Texas OP GP, LLC,

a Delaware limited liability company,
its general partner

  By:  

Carr Office Park LLC,

a Delaware limited liability company,

its sole member

    By:  

CarrAmerica Realty Corporation,

a Maryland corporation,

its managing member

      By:   /s/ Philip L. Hawkins
      Name:   Philip L. Hawkins
      Title:   President

 

TENANT :

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.,

a Delaware corporation

By:   /s/ Thomas F. Anderson
Name:   Thomas F. Anderson
Title:   Senior Vice President

 

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Exhibit 10.17(c)

THIRD AMENDMENT OF LEASE

THIS THIRD AMENDMENT OF LEASE (this “ Amendment ”) is entered into as of (but not necessarily on) the 1st day of January, 2004, by and between CARR TEXAS OP, LP (“ Landlord ”), successor-in-interest to Carramerica Realty, L.P. (“ Original Landlord ”) and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC . (“ Tenant ”), successor-in-interest to HFS Incorporated (“ Original Tenant ”).

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS , Original Landlord and Original Tenant entered into that certain Lease (the “ Lease Agreement ”), dated November 19, 1997, covering approximately 58,331 square feet of rentable area in that certain building (the “ Building ”) commonly known as Royal Ridge Office Center Building 2 in Las Colinas, Texas;

WHEREAS , Original Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain First Amendment to Lease dated January 27, 1999, wherein the Premises were reduced to approximately 39,779 square feet of rentable area (the Lease Agreement, as so amended, being hereinafter referred to as the “ Lease ”);

WHEREAS , the Premises have subsequently been expanded and remeasured such that Landlord and Tenant hereby stipulate that the Premises contain 43,745 rentable square feet of area;

WHEREAS , Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain Second Amendment of Lease (the “ Second Amendment ”) dated April 28, 2003; and

WHEREAS , Tenant has exercised its expansion option described in Paragraph 6 of the Second Amendment and Landlord and Tenant desire to enter into this Amendment to modify the terms of the Lease in accordance with the terms and conditions herein provided.

NOW, THEREFORE , for and in consideration of the sum of Ten and No/100 Dollars ($10.00) and other good and valuable consideration paid by each party hereto to the other, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby mutually acknowledged, Landlord and Tenant hereby agree as follows:

1. Premises . Effective as of January 1, 2004 (the “ Expansion Commencement Date ”) the Premises shall be expanded to include approximately 3,990 rentable square feet (the “ Expansion Space ”) so that the Premises shall then consist of approximately 47,735 square feet of rentable area, as outlined and hatched on Appendix A attached hereto and made a part hereof for all purposes.

2. Base Rent . Tenant’s Base Rent for the Expansion Space shall commence on April 1, 2004 and shall be as follows:

 

Period

   Annual Base
Rent Rate
Per Rentable
Square Foot
   Monthly
Base Rent

04/01/04 - 06/30/04

   $ 13.00    $ 4,322.50

07/01/04 - 06/30/05

   $ 14.00    $ 4,655.00

07/01/05 - 06/30/06

   $ 15.00    $ 4,987.50

07/01/06 - 06/30/07

   $ 16.00    $ 5,320.00

07/01/07 - 06/30/08

   $ 18.00    $ 5,985.00

3. Tenant’s Proportionate Share . As of the Expansion Commencement Date Tenant’s Proportionate Share shall be 46.83%.

 

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4. Expansion Space Work . The Expansion Space shall be delivered to Tenant in an “as is” condition. Landlord shall pay to Tenant a leasehold improvement allowance (the “ Expansion Space Construction Allowance ”) to construct leasehold improvements (the “ Expansion Space Work ”) in the Expansion Space pursuant to plans and specifications approved by Landlord and Tenant (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed). The Expansion Space Work shall be performed only by contractors approved by Landlord (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed). The Expansion Space Construction Allowance shall be equal to $10.00 per rentable square foot in the Expansion Space. If the cost of the Expansion Space Work exceeds the Expansion Space Construction Allowance, Tenant may request Landlord to fund a portion of such excess cost, up to an amount equal to $10.00 per rentable square foot in the Expansion Space (the “ Additional Allowance ”), in which event the monthly Base Rent payable for the Expansion Space shall be increased by an amount equal to the Additional Allowance amortized at the rate of 8% over the remaining months in the Term as of April 1,2004. If Tenant or its agent is managing the performance of the Expansion Space Work, then Tenant shall not become entitled to full credit for the Expansion Space Construction Allowance and Additional Allowance until such work has been substantially completed and Tenant has caused to be delivered to Landlord (i) all invoices from contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers evidencing the cost of performing the Expansion Space Work, together with unconditional lien waivers from such parties, and (ii) a certificate of occupancy from the appropriate governmental authority, if applicable to the Expansion Space Work, or evidence of governmental inspection and approval of the Expansion Space Work. Any portion of the Expansion Space Construction Allowance which remains unspent as of January 1, 2005 shall be applied to Tenant’s next accruing installments of Base Rent.

5. Tenant Estoppel . Tenant hereby confirms and ratifies the Lease, as amended hereby, acknowledges that Landlord is not in default under the Lease as of the date this Amendment is executed by Tenant and accepts the Premises “AS IS”, without benefit of further improvements except as expressly provided in this Amendment, and without warranty of suitability or fitness for a particular purpose.

6. Commissions . Tenant represents that it has dealt with no broker, agent or other person in connection with this Amendment other than Swearingen Realty Group, LLC, Daniel T. Paterson, broker (“ Broker ”) and that no broker, agent or other person brought about this Amendment (other than Broker), and Tenant shall indemnify and hold Landlord harmless from and against any and all claims, losses, costs or expenses (including attorneys’ fees and expenses) by any broker, agent or other person (except those of Broker) claiming a commission or other form of compensation by virtue of having dealt with Tenant with regard to this transaction contemplated by this Amendment. The provisions of this paragraph shall survive the expiration of the Lease Term or any renewal or extension thereof.

7. Confidentiality . Tenant agrees that Tenant shall not disclose, directly or indirectly, any of the terms, covenants, conditions or agreements set forth in the Lease, this Amendment or any subsequent amendments hereto, nor shall Tenant provide the Lease, this Amendment or any subsequent amendments hereto or any copies of same to any person, including, but not limited to, any other tenants in the Building or any agents or employees of such tenants, except that Tenant may disclose such information for valid business, legal and accounting purposes.

8. Miscellaneous .

(a) Paragraph 6 of the Second Amendment is hereby deleted in its entirety.

(b) Any capitalized term or phrase used in this Amendment shall have the same meaning as the meaning ascribed to such term or phrase in the Lease unless expressly otherwise defined in this Amendment.

(c) In the event that the terms of the Lease conflict or are inconsistent with those of this Amendment, the terms of this Amendment shall govern.

 

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(d) Except as amended by this Amendment, the terms of the Lease remain in full force and effect.

(e) Submission of this Amendment for examination does not constitute an offer, right of first refusal, reservation of, or option for, the Expansion Space or any other premises in the Building. This Amendment shall become effective only upon execution and delivery by both Landlord and Tenant.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , Landlord and Tenant have caused this Amendment to be executed on the date set forth above.

 

LANDLORD :

CARR TEXAS OP, LP,

a Delaware limited partnership

By:  

Carr Texas OP GP, LLC,

a Delaware limited liability company,

its general partner

  By:  

Carr Office Park LLC,

a Delaware limited liability company,

its sole member

    By:  

CarrAmerica Realty Corporation,

a Maryland corporation,

its managing member

      By:   /s/ William H. Vanderstraaten
      Name:   William H. Vanderstraaten
      Title:   Managing Director, Dallas

 

TENANT :

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.,

a Delaware corporation

By:   /s/ Frank Galus
Name:   Frank Galus
Title:  

Vice President

Cendant Corporate Real Estate

 

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Exhibit 10.17(d)

FOURTH AMENDMENT OF LEASE

THIS FOURTH AMENDMENT OF LEASE (this “ Amendment ”) is entered into on the 19 th day of Aug, 2005, by and between CARR TEXAS OP, LP (“ Landlord ”), successor-in-interest to Carramerica Realty, L.P. (“ Original Landlord ”) and CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC. (“ Tenant ”), successor-in-interest to HFS Incorporated (“ Original Tenant ”).

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS , Original Landlord and Original Tenant entered into that certain Lease (the “ Lease Agreement ”), dated November 19, 1997, covering approximately 68,331 square feet of rentable area in that certain building (the “ Building ”) commonly known as Royal Ridge Office Center Building 2 in Las Colinas Texas;

WHEREAS , Original Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain First Amendment to Lease dated January 27, 1999, wherein the Premises were reduced to approximately _9,779 square feet of rentable area;

WHEREAS , the Premises were subsequently expanded and remeasured so that the Premises then contained 43,745 rentable square feet of area;

WHEREAS , Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain Second Amendment of Lease (the “ Second Amendment ”) dated April 28, 2003;

WHEREAS , Landlord and Tenant entered into that certain Third Amendment of Lease dated as of January 1, 2004, wherein the Premises were expanded to approximately 47,735 square feet of rentable area (the “ Current Premises ”) (the Lease Agreement, as so amended, being hereinafter referred to as the “ Lease ”); and

WHEREAS , Landlord and Tenant desire (i) to expand the Premises to include an additional 14,532 square feet of rentable area (the “ Expansion Space ”) on the second (2 nd ) floor of the Building, as outlined and hatched on the floor plan attached hereto as Appendix A and incorporated herein for all purposes, (ii) extend the Term of the Lease, and (iii) to further modify the terms of the Lease as provided herein.

NOW, THEREFORE , for and in consideration of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) and other good and valuable consideration paid by each party hereto to the other, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby mutually acknowledged, Landlord and Tenant hereby agree as follows:

1. Premises . Effective as of the earlier date (the “ Expansion Commencement Date ”) to occur of (i) forty-five (45) days following the date (estimated to be October 3, 2005)

 

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Landlord commences construction of the Work (as defined in Paragraph 6 below), estimated to be November 16, 2005, or (ii) the date upon which Tenant occupies the Expansion Space for the purpose of doing business, the Premises shall be expanded to include the Expansion Space so that the Premises shall consist of approximately 62,267 square feet of rentable area, as outlined and hatched on Appendix A attached hereto.

2. Lease Term . The Term of the Lease is hereby extended so that the Term of the Lease shall expire on the date (the “ Expiration Date ”) which is seven (7) years following the Expansion Commencement Date, plus any partial calendar month following the Expansion Commencement Date, unless sooner terminated as provided in the Lease.

3. Base Rent . The Lease is hereby amended to reflect that Tenant’s Base Rent commencing on the earlier date to occur of (i) the date Tenant occupies the Expansion Space for the purpose of doing business, or (ii) the fifth (5 th ) day following the expiration of the Construction Period, shall be as follows:

 

Renewal Lease Year

   Annual Base
Rent Rate
Per Rentable
Square Foot
   Monthly
Base Rent

1

   $ 15.25    $ 79,130.98

2-3

   $ 16.25    $ 84,319.90

4-5

   $ 17.75    $ 92.103.27

6-7

   $ 18.50    $ 95,994.96

The Base Rent shall be due and payable in equal monthly installments, each such monthly installment due and payable on the first (1st) day of each calendar month, in advance, without demand and without setoff or deduction whatsoever. As used herein the term “ Renewal Lease Year ” shall mean twelve (12) consecutive calendar months, the first Renewal Lease Year to commence on (i) the Expansion Commencement Date, if such date is the first day of any month, or (ii) the first day of the month following the month during which the Expansion Commencement Date occurs, if the Expansion Commencement Date is not the first day of any month; the portion of the Term following the Expansion Commencement Date and prior to the first Renewal Lease Year shall be treated for all purposes hereunder as part of the first Renewal Lease Year.

4. Tenant’s Proportionate Share . As of the Expansion Commencement Date Tenant’s Proportionate Share shall be 61.09%.

5. Base Year . The Lease is hereby amended to reflect that effective as of the Expansion Commencement Date, the Base Year shall be the calendar year 2005.

6. Improvements .

A. Landlord shall cause to be performed the improvements (the “ Work ”) in the Current Premises and the Expansion Space in accordance with plans and specifications

 

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approved by Tenant and Landlord (“ Tenant’s Plans ”), which approvals shall not be unreasonably withheld. Landlord, with consultation of Tenant, shall select a contractor to perform the construction of the Work. Such contractor shall be selected by a competitive bid process between three contractor; selected by Landlord, with consultation of Tenant.

B. The Work in the Current Premises and the Expansion Space shall be performed pursuant to Tenant’s Plans and at the Tenant’s cost, subject to the Construction Allowance (hereinafter defined). The Construction Allowance shall be equal to the sum of $477,350.00 (being $10.00 per rentable square foot in the Current Premises) plus $217,980.00 (being $15.00 per rentable square foot in the Expansion Space). The Construction Allowance shall be applied toward the costs incurred for the Work, such costs to include, without limitation, construction costs, architectural and engineering costs, telephone and data cabling costs (“ Cabling Costs ”), the actual out-of-pocket costs incurred by Tenant to move into the Expansion Space and to install modular furniture and equipment (collectively, “ Moving Costs ”), construction management fees, and costs to cause the Premises to comply with all applicable Governmental Requirements, including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Texas Accessibility Standards. Landlord has no obligation to pay for costs of the Work in excess of the Construction Allowance. If the costs incurred for the Work exceeds the Construction Allowance, Landlord shall obtain Tenant’s prior written approval of the excess cost (the “ Approved Excess Cost ”). Tenant shall pay the Approved Excess Cost to Landlord within thirty (30) days following receipt of an invoice for the Approved Excess Cost. The costs incurred by Tenant for Cabling Costs and Moving Costs shall be reimbursed to Tenant out of the Construction Allowance within thirty (30) days following Landlord’s receipt of paid invoices therefor. The Work shall be substantially completed when the Work (a) is substantially completed, as evidenced by the issuance in good faith of a certificate of substantial completion by Landlord’s and Tenant’s architects, and (b) has been inspected and approved by all of the appropriate governmental authorities having jurisdiction (i.e., green tagged) so that a certificate of occupancy may be issued. Up to an amount equal to $ 311,335.00 (the “ Rent Credit ”), being $5.00 per rentable square foot in the Current Premises and the Expansion Space, of any unused portion of the Construction Allowance shall be paid to Tenant in two (2) equal monthly installments after the completion of the Work. Any portion of the Construction Allowance which remains unspent as of the Expansion Commencement Date (after the payment of the Rent Credit) shall be retained by Landlord without credit or payment to Tenant. Landlord, or an agent of Landlord, shall provide project management services in connection with the construction of the Work. Such project management services shall be performed for a fee of two and one half percent (2-1/2%) of all costs related to the preparation of Tenant’s Plans and the construction of the Work, which Landlord shall deduct from the Construction Allowance. Tenant may appoint a construction manager to monitor the costs related to the preparation of Tenant’s Plans and the construction of the Work.

7. Extension Option . Paragraph 8 of the Second Amendment is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced by the following provision:

Subject to Subsection B below, Tenant may at its option extend the Term of the Lease for one (1) period of five (5) years (the “ Renewal Term ”). The Renewal Term shall be upon

 

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the same terms contained in the Lease excluding any provision of the Lease granting a leasehold improvement or refurbishment allowance and except for the payment of Base Rent during the Renewal Term and the expense stop; and any reference in the Lease to the “Term” of the Lease shall be deemed to include the Renewal Term and apply thereto, unless it is expressly provided otherwise. Tenant shall have no additional extension options.

A. The Base Rent during the Renewal Term shall be 95% of the Market Rate (defined hereinafter) for such space for a term commencing on the first day of the Renewal Term. “ Market Rate ” shall mean, the then prevailing market rate calculated as of the date. Tenant delivers its renewal notice for a comparable term for tenants of comparable size and creditworthiness for comparable space in the Building and other first class office buildings in the vicinity of the Building taking into consideration the Market Inducements provided to Tenant. Landlord shall provide to Tenant with respect to the Renewal Term all market inducements then being offered to tenants of comparable space in the Building and comparable buildings in the vicinity of the Building, as of the commencement of the Renewal Term, taking into consideration the length of the Renewal Term, including, without limitation, free rent, tenant improvements, expense stops, base year, moving allowances, brokerage commissions and tenant improvement allowances. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the tenant improvement allowance to which Tenant shall be entitled for the Renewal Term shall be an amount equal to the product of $5.00 multiplied by the number of rentable square feet then contained in the Premises. The Base Year for the Renewal Term shall be the calendar year in which the Renewal Term commences.

B. To exercise the option, Tenant must deliver a binding notice to Landlord not less than six (6) months prior to the Expiration Date (as defined in Paragraph 2 of this Amendment). Thereafter, the Market Rate for the Renewal Term shall be calculated pursuant to Subsection C below and Landlord shall inform Tenant of the Market Rate. Such calculations shall be final and shall not be recalculated at the actual commencement of the Renewal Term. If Tenant fails to timely give its notice of exercise, Tenant will be deemed to have waived its option to extend.

C. Market Rate shall be determined as follows:

(i) If Tenant provides Landlord with its binding notice of exercise pursuant to Subsection B above, then Landlord shall calculate and inform Tenant of the Market Rate. If Tenant rejects the Market Rate as calculated by Landlord, Tenant shall inform Landlord of its rejection within ten (10) days after Tenant’s receipt of Landlord’s calculation, and Landlord and Tenant shall commence negotiations to agree upon the Market Rate. If Tenant fails to timely reject Landlord’s calculation of the Market Rate it will be deemed to have accepted such calculation. If Landlord and Tenant are unable to reach agreement within twenty-one (21)

 

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days after Landlord’s receipt of Tenant’s notice of rejection, then the Market Rate shall be determined in accordance with (ii) below.

(ii) If Landlord and Tenant are unable to reach agreement on the Market Rate within said twenty-one (21) day period, then within seven (7) days, Landlord and Tenant shall each simultaneously submit to the other in a sealed envelope its good faith estimate of the Market Rate. If the higher of such estimates is not more than one hundred five percent (105%) of the lower, then the Market Rate shall be the average of the two. Otherwise, the dispute shall be resolved by arbitration in accordance with (iii) below,

(iii) Within seven (7) business days after the exchange of estimates, the parties shall select as an arbitrator an independent MAI appraiser with at least five (5) years of experience in appraising office space in the metropolitan area in which the Project is located (a “ Qualified Appraiser ). If the parties cannot agree on a Qualified Appraiser, then within a second period of seven (7) business days, each shall select a Qualified Appraiser and within ten (10) business days thereafter the two appointed Qualified Appraisers shall select a third Qualified Appraiser and the third Qualified. Appraiser shall be the sole arbitrator. If one party shall fail to select a Qualified Appraiser within the second seven (7) business day period, then the Qualified Appraiser chosen by the other party shall be the sole arbitrator.

(iv) Within twenty-one (21) days after submission of the matter to the arbitrator, the arbitrator shall determine the Market Rate by choosing whichever of the estimates submitted by Landlord and Tenant the arbitrator judges to be more accurate. The arbitrator shall notify Landlord and Tenant of its decision, which shall be final and binding. If the arbitrator believes that expert advice would materially assist him, the arbitrator may regain one or more qualified persons to provide expert advice. The fees of the arbitrator and the expenses of the arbitration proceeding, including the fees of any expert witnesses retained by the arbitrator, shall be paid by the party whose estimate is not selected. Each party shall pay the fees of its respective counsel and the fees of any witness called by that party.

D. Tenant’s option to extend the Lease is subject to the conditions that: (i) on the date that tenant delivers its binding notice exercising an option to extend, Tenant is not in material default under this Lease after the expiration of any applicable notice and cure periods, and (ii) Tenant shall not have assigned the Lease, or sublet any portion of the Premises under a sublease which is effective at any time during the final twelve (12) months prior to the Expiration Date (as defined in Paragraph 2 of this Amendment).

 

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8. Parking . Tenant shall be entitled to six (6) unreserved parking spaces for each 1,000 rentable square feet in the Premises, free of charge through the Expiration Date (as defined in Paragraph 2 above).

9. Tenant Estoppel . Tenant hereby confirms and ratifies the Lease, as amended hereby, acknowledges that Landlord is not in default under the Lease as of the date this Amendment is executed by Tenant and accepts the Premises and the Expansion Space “AS IS”, without benefit of further improvements, except as expressly provided in this Amendment, and without warranty of suitability or fitness for a particular purpose.

10. Commissions . Tenant represents that it has dealt with no broker, agent or other person in connection with this Amendment other than Swearingen Realty Group, LLC, Daniel T. Paterson, broker (“ Broker ”) and that no broker, agent or other person brought about this Amendment (other than Broker) and Tenant shall indemnify and hold Landlord harmless from and against any and all claims, losses, costs or expenses (including attorneys’ fees and expenses) by any broker, agent or other person (except those of Broker) claiming a commission or other form of compensation by virtue of having dealt with Tenant with regard to this transaction contemplated by this Amendment. The provisions of this paragraph shall survive the expiration of the Lease Term or any renewal or extension thereof.

11. Condition Precedent . Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, this Amendment is subject to and conditioned upon Landlord entering into a written agreement with the current tenant of the Expansion Space terminating such tenant’s leasehold interest in the Expansion Space. Landlord shall not be liable for the failure to commence construction of the Work or deliver the Expansion Space to Tenant by the estimated dates set forth in Paragraph 1 of this Amendment by reason of the continued occupancy of the Expansion Space by the current tenant thereof.

12. Miscellaneous .

(a) Paragraph 9 (Termination Right) of the Second Amendment is hereby deleted in its entirety.

(b) Any capitalized term or phrase used in this Amendment shall have the same meaning as the meaning ascribed to such term or phrase in the Lease unless expressly otherwise defined in this Amendment.

(c) In the event that the terms of the Lease conflict or are inconsistent with those of this Amendment, the terms of this Amendment shall govern.

(d) Except as amended by this Amendment, the terms of the Lease remain in full force and effect.

 

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(e) Submission of this Amendment for examination does not constitute an offer, right of first refusal, reservation of, or option for, the Expansion Space or any other premises in the Building. This Amendment shall become effective only upon execution and delivery by both Landlord and Tenant.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , Landlord and Tenant have caused this Amendment to be executed on the date set forth above.

 

LANDLORD :

CARR TEXAS OP, L.P.,

a Delaware limited partnership

By:  

Carr Texas OP GP, LLC,

a Delaware limited liability company,

its general partner

 

By:

 

Carr Office Park, LLC,

a Delaware limited liability company,

its sole member

   

By:

 

CarrAmerica Realty Operating Partnership, L.P.,

a Delaware limited partnership,

its managing member

     

By:

 

CarrAmerica Realty Corporation,

a Maryland corporation,

its general partner

        By:   /s/ Illegible
        Name:   Illegible
        Title:   VP

 

TENANT :

CENDANT OPERATIONS, INC.,

a Delaware corporation

By:   /s/ Frank Galus
  Frank Galus
  Group Vice President

 

-7-

Exhibit 21.1

REALOGY CORPORATION SUBSIDIARY LIST

 

Name

  

Jurisdiction of Incorporation

A Market Place, Inc.

   CA

Advantage Title & Insurance, LLC

   DE

AFS Mortgage

   DE

Allmon, Tiernan & Ely, Inc.

   FL

Alpha Referral Network, Inc.

   TX

American Home Settlement Services, LLC (joint venture)

   DE

American Title Company of Houston

   TX

APEX Real Estate Information Services Alabama, L.L.C.

   AL

APEX Real Estate Information Services, LLC

   PA

APEX Real Estate Information Services, LLP

   PA

Apple Ridge Services Corporation

   DE

Associated Client Referral Corp.

   PA

Associates Investments

   CA

Associates Realty Network

   CA

Associates Realty, Inc.

   CA

Associates Title, LLC

   DE

ATCOH Holding Company

   TX

Atlantic Title & Trust, LLC (joint venture)

   DE

Baldwin County Settlement Services, LLC (joint venture)

   AL

BCD Investments, Inc.

   HI

Bob Tendler Real Estate, Inc.

   CT

Burgdorff Referral Associates, Inc.

   NJ

Burnet Realty Inc. (MN)

   MN

Burnet Realty, Inc. (WI)

   WI

Burnet Title L.L.C.

   MN

Burnet Title of Indiana, LLC (joint venture)

   IN

Burnet Title of Ohio, LLC

   OH

Burnet Title, Inc.

   MN

Burrow Escrow Services, Inc.

   CA

Cambridge Settlement Services.Com, LLC (joint venture)

   AL

Cendant Business Answers No. 2 Plc

   UK

Cendant Franchise Finance, Inc.

   DE

Cendant Global Services East, BV

   Netherlands

Cendant Global Services, BV

   Netherlands

Cendant Global Services, Inc.

   DE

Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC

   DE

Cendant Mobility Financial Corporation

   DE

Cendant Mobility Holdings Limited

   UK

Cendant Mobility II Limited

   UK


Cendant Mobility Limited *

   Hong Kong

Cendant Mobility Limited

   UK

Cendant Mobility Partner Corporation

   DE

Cendant Mobility Property Services Limited

   UK

Cendant Mobility Property Services No 2 Limited

   UK

Cendant Mobility Pte. Ltd.

   Singapore

Cendant Mobility Pty Ltd.

   Australia

Cendant Mobility Puerto Rico Corporation

   Puerto Rico

Cendant Mobility Relocation Company

   DE

Cendant Mobility Services Corporation (Canada)

   New Brunswick

Cendant Mobility Services Corporation

   DE

Cendant Mobility Services Limited

   UK

Cendant Mobility UK Plc

   UK

Cendant Real Estate Services Group LLC

   DE

Cendant Real Estate Services Venture Partner, Inc.

   DE

Cendant Services Ltd.

   UK

Cendant Settlement Services Group LLC

   DE

Central Florida Title Company

   FL

Central Penn Multi-List, Inc. (joint venture)

   PA

Century 21 Real Estate Corporation (Canada) Ltd.

   Canada

Century 21 Real Estate LLC

   DE

CGRN, Inc.

   DE

Cleveland Financial Services Group **

   CA

Coldwell Banker Commercial Pacific Properties, Ltd.

   HI

Coldwell Banker Corporation

   DE

Coldwell Banker King Thompson Auction Services, Inc.

   DE

Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties, Ltd.

   HI

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation

   CA

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services, Inc.

   NJ

Coldwell Banker Real Estate, Inc.

   PA

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Company

   CA

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Corporation

   DE

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Insurance Agency of Maine, Inc.

   ME

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Insurance Agency, Inc.

   MA

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Pardoe, Inc.

   DE

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Inc.

   DE

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate Services of Wisconsin, Inc.

   WI

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Inc.

   CA

Coldwell Banker Residential Referral Network, Inc. (CA)

   CA

Coldwell Banker Residential Referral Network, Inc. (PA)

   PA

Colorado Commercial, LLC

   CO

Cook-Pony Farm Real Estate, Inc.

   NY

Corcoran Group - Brooklyn Landmark, LLC

   NY

Corcoran MLS Holdings LLC

   DE


Cornish & Carey Residential, Inc. *

  

CA

Cosby-Tipton Real Estate, Inc.

  

CA

Cotton Real Estate, Inc.

  

MA

CSSG Affiliates Holdings, Inc.

  

DE

CSSG Holdings, Inc.

  

DE

Del Monte Realty Company

  

CA

DeWolfe Realty Affiliates, Inc.

  

ME

DeWolfe Relocation Services, Inc.

  

MA

Douglas and Jean Burgdorff, Inc.

  

NJ

Equity Title Company

  

CA

Equity Title Messenger Service Holding Company

  

DE

ERA Franchise Systems, Inc.

  

DE

ERA General Agency Corporation

  

MO

ERA General Agency of New Jersey, Inc.

  

NJ

Fairtide Insurance Ltd.

  

Bermuda

FedState Strategic Consulting, Incorporated

  

DE

First Advantage Title, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

First California Escrow Corporation

  

DE

First Place Title, LLC

  

DE

Florida’s Preferred School of Real Estate, Inc.

  

FL

Franchise Settlement Services, Inc.

  

DE

Fred Sands School of Real Estate, Inc.

  

CA

FSA Membership Services, LLC

  

DE

Grand Title, LLC

  

DE

Guardian Holding Company

  

DE

Guardian Title Agency, LLC

  

CO

Guardian Title Company

  

CA

Gulf South Settlement Services, LLC

  

DE

Henry S. Miller Real Estate Institute, Inc. *

  

TX

HFS Mobility Services Inc.

  

Ontario

Hickory Title, LLC

  

DE

Hillshire House, Incorporated

  

CT

Home Referral Network, Inc.

  

MN

Hopkins Associates, Inc.

  

MD

Island Settlement Services, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

J.W. Riker - Northern R.I., Inc.

  

RI

Jack Gaughen, Inc.

  

PA

Kendall, Potter & Mann Realtors, Inc.

  

CA

Kenosia Funding, LLC

  

DE

Keystone Closing Services, LLC

  

DE

Keystone Title, LLC

  

DE

King Title Services, LLC

  

AL

Landmark Shelfco Limited

  

UK

Lehigh Title, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE


Lincoln Settlement Services, LLC

  

DE

Lincoln Title, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

LMS (Delaware) Corp.

  

DE

Market Street Settlement Group, Inc.

  

NH

Mercury Settlement Services, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

Metro Title, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

Mid-Exchange, Inc.

  

CA

Mid-State Escrow Corporation

  

DE

National Coordination Alliance, Inc.

  

CA

NEWMLS LLC (Joint Venture)

  

NJ

Nisbet Corporation *

  

OH

NRT Arizona Commercial, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Arizona Exito, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Arizona Pinnacle Peak, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Arizona Referral, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Arizona Southwest, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Arizona Success, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Arizona, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Chicago LLC

  

DE

NRT Colorado, Inc.

  

CO

NRT Columbus, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Commercial Ohio Incorporated

  

OH

NRT Commercial Utah, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Commercial, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Hawaii Referral, LLC

  

DE

NRT Incorporated

  

DE

NRT Mid-Atlantic Title Services, LLC

  

MD

NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc.

  

MD

NRT Missouri Referral Network, Inc.

  

MO

NRT Missouri, Inc.

  

MO

NRT New England Incorporated

  

DE

NRT New York, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Relocation LLC

  

DE

NRT Settlement Services of Missouri, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Settlement Services of Texas, Inc.

  

DE

NRT Settlement Services, LLC

  

MD

NRT Sunshine Inc.

  

DE

NRT Texas Real Estate Services, Inc.

  

TX

NRT Texas, Inc.

  

TX

NRT The Condo Store Incorporated

  

DE

NRT Title Agency, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

NRT Title Services of Maryland, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

NRT Utah, Inc. (DE)

  

DE

O’Conor, Piper & Flynn Insurance Agency, LLC (joint venture)

  

MD


O’Conor, Piper & Flynn Recreational and Social Club, Inc.

  

MD

Pacesetter Nevada, Inc.

  

NV

Pacific Properties Referrals, Inc.

  

HI

Patriot Settlement Services, LLC

  

DE

PHH Network Services S.A. de C.V.

  

Mexico

PHH Title Services Corporation

  

DE

Platinum Title & Settlement Services, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

Premier Settlement Services, LLC

  

DE

Prime Commercial, Inc.

  

UT

Processing Solutions, Inc.

  

TX

Professionals’ Title Company, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

Progressive Title Company, Inc.

  

CA

Property I.D. Associates, LLC (joint venture)

  

CA

Providence Title Company

  

TX

Quality Title, LLC (joint venture)

  

OH

R.J. Young Company

  

CA

Real Estate Franchise Group, Inc.

  

DE

Real Estate Operations, Inc.

  

CA

Real Estate Referral, Inc.

  

CT

Real Estate Referrals, Inc.

  

MD

Real Estate Services of Pennsylvania, Inc.

  

PA

Real Estate Services, Inc. ***

  

DE

Realogy Intellectual Property Holdings I, Inc.

  

DE

Realogy Intellectual Property Holdings II, Inc.

  

DE

Referral Associates of Florida, Inc.

  

FL

Referral Associates of New England, Inc.

  

MA

Referral Network Inc.

  

TX

Referral Network, Inc. (FL)

  

FL

Referral Network, LLC

  

CO

Regency Title Company, L.L.C. (joint venture)

  

GA

Riverbend Title, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

Rocky Mountain Settlement Services, LLC

  

DE

Scranton Abstract, LLC

  

DE

Seawind Settlement Services, LLC

  

DE

Secured Land Transfers, Inc.

  

PA

Security Settlement Services, LLC

  

DE

Seville Properties, Inc. *

  

CA

Signature Properties, Inc.

  

FL

Skyline Title, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

Soleil Florida Corp.

  

FL

Sotheby’s International Realty Referral, LLC

  

DE

Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc.

  

DE

Sotheby’s International Realty Licensee Corporation

  

DE

Sotheby’s International Realty Limited

  

UK


Sotheby’s International Realty UK Limited

  

UK

Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

  

MI

South Land Title Co., Inc.

  

TX

South-Land Title of Montgomery County, Inc.

  

TX

St. Joe Real Estate Services, Inc.

  

FL

St. Joe Title Services Inc.

  

FL

St. Joe Title Services, LLC

  

DE

St. Mary’s Title Services, LLC (joint venture)

  

NH

Summit Escrow

  

CA

Sunland Title, LLC

  

DE

Susquehanna Land Transfers, LLC (joint venture)

  

DE

TAW Holding, Inc.

  

TX

TBR Settlement Services, LLC

  

DE

Terramar Guaranty Title & Trust, Inc.

  

FL

Texas American Title Company of Austin

  

TX

Texas American Title Company

  

TX

The Corcoran Group Eastside, Inc.

  

NY

The DeWolfe Companies, Inc.

  

MA

The DeWolfe Company, Inc.

  

MA

The Four Star Corp.

  

CT

The Masiello Group Closing Services, LLC (joint venture)

  

NH

The Miller Group, Inc.

  

MD

The NRT Foundation, Inc.

  

DE

The Sunshine Group (Florida) Limited Partnership

  

DE

The Sunshine Group (Florida) Ltd. Corp.

  

FL

The Sunshine Group Limited Partnership

  

DE

The Sunshine Group, Ltd.

  

NY

Title Resources Guaranty Company

  

TX

Title Resources Incorporated

  

DE

Trust of New England, Inc.

  

MA

Valley of California, Inc.

  

CA

West Coast Escrow Closing Co.

  

CA

West Coast Escrow Company

  

CA

West Coast Valencia Escrow Company, Inc.

  

DE

West Shell, Inc.

  

OH

William Orange Realty, Inc.

  

CT

 

* 1% owned by Cendant Corporation (to be transferred)

 

** Names of entities to be changed / possible new entities to be incorporated

 

*** 100% of outstanding preferred stock held by Cendant Internet Group, Inc.
Table of Contents

Exhibit 99.1

LOGO

                    , 2006

Dear Cendant Corporation Stockholder:

I am pleased to inform you that on                     , 2006, the Board of Directors of Cendant Corporation approved the distribution of all of the shares of common stock of Realogy Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cendant, to Cendant stockholders. Realogy holds all of the assets and liabilities associated with Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses and is one of the preeminent providers of real estate and relocation services in the world.

This distribution is the first in a series of distributions to be made pursuant to a plan preliminarily approved by our Board on October 23, 2005 to separate Cendant into four independent, publicly traded companies—one for each of Cendant’s Real Estate Services, Travel Distribution Services, Hospitality Services (including Timeshare Resorts) and Vehicle Rental businesses. Upon each distribution, Cendant stockholders will own 100% of the common stock of the company being distributed. Cendant’s Board of Directors believes that creating four focused companies is the best way to unlock the full value of Cendant’s businesses for the benefit of Cendant, our stockholders and each of the businesses, in both the short and long term. The Cendant Board expects to receive, prior to the distribution being finally approved, an opinion from Evercore Group L.L.C. to the effect that, as of the date of such opinion, the distribution is fair, from a financial point of view, to the stockholders of Cendant. A copy of the opinion that Evercore is expected to deliver to the Cendant Board will be attached to this information statement as Annex A.

The distribution of Realogy common stock will occur on                     , 2006 by way of a pro rata dividend to Cendant stockholders. Each Cendant stockholder will be entitled to receive one share of Realogy common stock for every four shares of Cendant common stock held by such stockholder at the close of business on                     , 2006, the record date of the distribution. The dividend will be issued in book-entry form only, which means that no physical stock certificates will be issued. No fractional shares of Realogy common stock will be issued. If you would otherwise have been entitled to a fractional share of Realogy common stock in the distribution, you will receive the net cash value of such fractional share instead.

Stockholder approval of the distribution is not required, and you are not required to take any action to receive your Realogy common stock.

Following the distribution, you will own shares in both Cendant and Realogy. Cendant’s common stock will continue to trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CD.” We intend to apply to have Realogy’s common stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “H.”

The enclosed information statement, which is being mailed to all Cendant stockholders, describes the distribution in detail and contains important information about Realogy. We urge you to read the information statement carefully.

I want to thank you for your continued support of Cendant and we look forward to your support of Realogy in the future.

Sincerely,

Henry R. Silverman

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

LOGO


Table of Contents

LOGO

                    , 2006

Dear Realogy Corporation Stockholder:

It is our pleasure to welcome you as a stockholder of our company, Realogy Corporation. We are one of the preeminent and most integrated providers of real estate and relocation services in the world. Our operations include real estate brokerage franchise systems operating under the CENTURY 21 ® , COLDWELL BANKER ® , ERA ® , SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ® and COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL ® brands; real estate brokerage operations owned and operated by our NRT Incorporated subsidiary under the COLDWELL BANKER ® , ERA ® , THE CORCORAN GROUP ® and SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ® brands; employee relocation services; and title and settlement services. We are the world’s largest real estate brokerage franchisor, the largest U.S. residential real estate brokerage firm, the largest U.S. provider and a leading global provider of outsourced employee relocation services and a provider of title and settlement services.

We intend to apply to have our common stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “H” in connection with for the distribution of our company’s common stock by Cendant Corporation.

We invite you to learn more about Realogy by reviewing the enclosed information statement. We look forward to our future as an independent, publicly traded company and to your support as a holder of Realogy common stock.

Sincerely,

 

Henry R. Silverman

  

Richard A. Smith

Chairman of the Board

and Chief Executive Officer

  

Vice Chairman of the Board

and President


Table of Contents

Preliminary Information Statement

(Subject to Completion, Dated April 3, 2006)

LOGO

Information Statement

Distribution of

Common Stock of

REALOGY CORPORATION

by

CENDANT CORPORATION

to Cendant Corporation Stockholders

This information statement is being furnished in connection with the distribution by Cendant Corporation to its stockholders of all of its shares of common stock of Realogy Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cendant that holds the assets and liabilities associated with Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses. To implement the distribution, Cendant will distribute all of its shares of Realogy common stock on a pro rata basis to the holders of Cendant common stock. Each of you, as a holder of Cendant common stock, will receive one share of Realogy common stock for every four shares of Cendant common stock that you held at the close of business on                     , 2006, the record date for the distribution. The distribution will be effective as of                     , 2006. Immediately after the distribution is completed, Realogy will be an independent public company.

No vote of Cendant stockholders is required in connection with this distribution. We are not asking you for a proxy and you are requested not to send us a proxy. Cendant stockholders will not be required to pay any consideration for the shares of our common stock they receive in the distribution, and they will not be required to surrender or exchange shares of their Cendant common stock or take any other action in connection with the distribution.

All of the outstanding shares of our common stock are currently owned by Cendant. Accordingly, there currently is no public trading market for our common stock. We intend to file an application to list our common stock under the ticker symbol “H” on the New York Stock Exchange. Assuming that our common stock is approved for listing, we anticipate that a limited market, commonly known as a “when-issued” trading market, for our common stock will develop on or shortly before the record date for the distribution and will continue up to and including through the distribution date, and we anticipate that “regular-way” trading of our common stock will begin on the first trading day following the distribution date.

In reviewing this information statement, you should carefully consider the matters described under the caption “ Risk Factors ” beginning on page 20 of this information statement.

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of any of the securities of Realogy Corporation, or determined whether 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                     , 2006.

This information statement was first mailed to Cendant stockholders on or about                     , 2006.


Table of Contents

LOGO


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Summary

   1

Risk Factors

   20

Forward-Looking Statements

   35

The Separation

   36

Dividend Policy

   51

Capitalization

   52

Selected Combined Financial Data

   53

Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information

   56

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

   62

Business

   78

Management

   106

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

   124

Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions

   126

Description of Capital Stock

   141

Description of Material Indebtedness

   145

Where You Can Find More Information

   147

Index to Financial Statements

   F-1

Opinion of Evercore Group L.L.C.

   A-2

Opinion of Duff & Phelps, LLC

   B-2

 


TRADEMARKS AND SERVICE MARKS

We own or have rights to use the trademarks, service marks and trade names that we use in conjunction with the operation of our business. Some of the more important trademarks that we own or have rights to use that appear in this information statement include the CENTURY 21 ® , COLDWELL BANKER ® , ERA ® , THE CORCORAN GROUP ® , COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL ® and SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ® marks, which may be registered in the United States and other jurisdictions. Each trademark, trade name or service mark of any other company appearing in this information statement is owned by such company.

INDUSTRY DATA

This information statement includes industry and trade association data, forecasts and information that we have prepared based, in part, upon data, forecasts and information obtained from independent trade associations, industry publications and surveys and other information available to us. Some data is also based on our good faith estimates, which are derived from management’s knowledge of the industry and independent sources. The primary sources for third-party industry data and forecasts were The National Association of Realtors and other industry reports and articles. These third-party publications and surveys generally state that the information included therein is believed to have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, and that the publications and surveys can give no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of such information. We have not independently verified any of the data from third-party sources nor have we ascertained the underlying economic assumptions on which such data is based. Similarly, we believe our internal research is reliable, even though such research has not been verified by any independent sources.


Table of Contents

SUMMARY

This summary highlights selected information from this information statement relating to our company, our separation from Cendant and the distribution of our common stock by Cendant to its stockholders. For a more complete understanding of our business and the separation and distribution, you should carefully read the entire information statement.

Except as otherwise indicated or unless the context otherwise requires, the information included in this information statement, including the combined financial statements of the Realogy businesses of Cendant, which are comprised of the assets and liabilities used in managing and operating the Real Estate Services businesses of Cendant, assumes the completion of all the transactions referred to in this information statement in connection with the separation and distribution. Except as otherwise indicated or unless the context otherwise requires, “Realogy Corporation,” “Realogy,” “we,” “us,” “our” and “our company” refer to Realogy Corporation and its combined subsidiaries and “Cendant Corporation” and “Cendant” refer to Cendant Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Our Company

We are one of the preeminent and most integrated providers of real estate and relocation services in the world. We operate in four segments: Real Estate Franchise Services, Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services, Relocation Services and Title and Settlement Services. Through our portfolio of leading brands and the broad range of services we offer, we have established our company as a leader in the residential real estate industry, with operations that are dispersed throughout the United States and around the world. We are the world’s largest real estate brokerage franchisor, the largest U.S. residential real estate brokerage firm, the largest U.S. provider and a leading global provider of outsourced employee relocation services and a provider of title and settlement services.

According to the National Association of Realtors (“NAR”), since 1985, the value of existing home sales in the U.S. has grown at a compounded annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of 10% per year to approximately $1.8 trillion in 2005. We believe that the value of existing home sales will continue to grow at a positive rate in future years. Furthermore, we believe that our strong brand recognition, our geographic diversity and our complementary real estate and relocation services position us to capitalize on this growth. In 2005, we had revenues of $7.1 billion, net income before interest (other than interest on secured obligations), income taxes, depreciation, amortization and minority interest, which we refer to as EBITDA, of $1.2 billion and net income of $627 million, each on an historical basis, representing a CAGR of 60%, 25% and 23%, respectively, since 2001. Assuming the separation was completed on January 1, 2005, we would have had pro forma net income of $504 million for 2005. See “Unaudited Historical and Pro Forma Financial Information” for our adjustments relating to incremental costs associated with operating as a separate public company. For a discussion of EBITDA and a reconciliation of EBITDA to net income see “Summary Historical and Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Data,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

Real Estate Franchise Services .  We are a franchisor of five of the most recognized brands in the real estate industry. We have approximately 15,000 offices and 310,000 sales associates operating under our franchise brands in the U.S. and other countries and territories around the world, which includes over 1,000 of our company owned and operated brokerage offices. In the U.S. during 2005, we estimate, based on publicly available information, that brokers operating under one of our franchised brands represented the buyer and/or the seller in approximately one out of every four single family home sale transactions that involved a broker, and we believe we received approximately 25% of all brokerage commissions paid in such transactions. We believe that the geographic diversity of our franchisees reduces our risk of exposure to local or regional changes in the real

 

1


Table of Contents

estate market. In addition, we have over 5,000 franchisees, none of which represented more than 1% of our franchise royalties (other than our NRT Incorporated subsidiary, which operates our company owned brokerage operations). We believe this minimizes our exposure to any one franchisee. From 2001 to 2005, our franchise business revenues and EBITDA grew at a CAGR of 11% and 19%, respectively, driven both by organic growth of our real estate franchise systems as well as by the acquisition of new brands. Our franchise revenues include intercompany royalties paid by our company owned brokerage operations. In 2005, our real estate franchise business contributed 14% to our revenues and 63% to our EBITDA. Our real estate franchise brands are:

 

    CENTURY 21 ® —one of the world’s largest residential real estate brokerage franchisors, with approximately 7,900 franchise offices and approximately 143,200 sales associates located in 42 countries and territories;

 

    COLDWELL BANKER ® —one of the world’s leading brands for the sale of million-dollar-plus homes and one of the largest residential real estate brokerage franchisors, with approximately 4,000 franchise and company owned offices and approximately 126,400 sales associates in the United States, Canada and 28 other countries and territories;

 

    ERA ® —a leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor, with approximately 2,800 franchise and company owned offices and approximately 36,600 sales associates located in 30 countries and territories;

 

    SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY ® —a luxury real estate brokerage brand. In February 2004, we acquired from Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc. the brand’s company owned offices and the exclusive license for the rights to the Sotheby’s Realty and Sotheby’s International Realty trademarks. Since that time, we have grown the brand from 15 company owned offices to 220 franchise and company owned offices and approximately 5,100 sales associates in the United States and four other countries and territories; and

 

    COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL ® —a leading commercial real estate brokerage franchisor. Our commercial franchise system has approximately 160 franchise offices and approximately 1,400 sales associates worldwide. The number of offices and sales associates in our commercial franchise system does not include our residential franchise and company owned brokerage offices and the sales associates who work out of those brokerage offices that also conduct commercial real estate brokerage transactions.

We derive substantially all of our real estate franchising revenues from royalty fees received under long-term (typically ten year) franchise agreements with our franchisees. The royalty fee is based on a percentage of the franchisees’ gross commission income that they earn from real estate transactions. Our franchisees pay us fees for the right to operate under one of our trademarks and to enjoy the benefits of the systems and tools provided by our real estate franchise operations. These fees enable us to enjoy stable, recurring revenue streams and high operating margins. In exchange, we provide our franchisees with world-class service and support that is designed to facilitate our franchisees in growing their business and increasing their revenue and profitability. We support our franchisees with dedicated national marketing and servicing programs, technology, training and education. We believe that one of our strengths is the strong relationships that we have with our franchisees, as evidenced by our 99% retention rate of franchisees during 2005.

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services .  Through our subsidiary, NRT Incorporated (“NRT”), we own and operate a full-service real estate brokerage business in more than 35 of the largest metropolitan areas of the U.S. Our company owned real estate brokerage business operates under our franchised brands as well as proprietary brands that we own, but do not currently franchise to third parties, such as THE CORCORAN GROUP ® . We have nearly 1,100 company owned brokerage offices, approximately 9,000 employees and over 64,000 independent contractor sales associates working with these company owned offices. From the date of Cendant’s acquisition of 100% of NRT in April 2002 through 2005, we acquired over 90 brokerage companies. Such acquisitions are part of our strategy and have been a substantial contributor to the growth of our company owned brokerage business. We believe that the geographic diversity of our company owned brokerage business could mitigate some of the impact of local or regional changes in the real estate market. From 2003 to 2005, our

 

2


Table of Contents

company owned real estate brokerage business revenues and EBITDA each grew at a CAGR of 15% which was driven both by organic growth of our owned real estate brokerage business as well as by acquisitions. In 2005, our company owned real estate brokerage business contributed 75% to our revenues and 21% to our EBITDA, and paid royalties to our real estate franchise services segment of $369 million.

Our company owned real estate brokerage business derives revenues primarily from sales commissions, which are received at the closing of real estate transactions, which we refer to as gross commission income. Sales commissions usually range from 5% to 7% of the home’s sale price. In transactions in which we act as a broker for solely the buyer or the seller, the seller’s broker typically instructs the closing agent to pay a portion of the sales commission to the broker for the buyer. In addition, as a full-service real estate brokerage company, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, we actively promote the services of our relocation and title and settlement services businesses, as well as the products offered by PHH Home Loans, LLC, our home mortgage venture with PHH Corporation that is the exclusive recommended provider of mortgages for our real estate brokerage and relocation service customers. All mortgage loans originated by PHH Home Loans are sold to PHH or other third party investors, and PHH Home Loans does not hold any mortgage loans for investment purposes or perform servicing functions for any loans it originates. Accordingly, our home mortgage venture structure insulates us from mortgage servicing risk. We own 49.9% of PHH Home Loans and PHH Corporation owns the remaining 50.1%. As a result, our financial results only reflect our proportionate share of the venture’s results of operations which are recorded on the equity method.

Relocation Services .  Through our subsidiary, Cendant Mobility, which is expected to be renamed Cartus Corporation in May 2006, and which is referred to as Cartus in this information statement, we offer a broad range of world-class employee relocation services designed to manage all aspects of an employee’s move and facilitate a smooth transition in what otherwise may be a difficult process for that employee. We assist in over 120,000 relocations in over 140 countries annually for over 1,200 active clients including nearly two-thirds of the Fortune 50, as well as government agencies and membership organizations that offer their members discounted pricing on goods and services, which we refer to as affinity organizations. Our relocation services business operates in six global service centers on four continents and is the largest U.S. and a leading global provider of outsourced employee relocation services. From 2001 to 2005, our relocation services business revenues and EBITDA each grew at a CAGR of 3%. Our relocation services business is a driver of significant revenue to our other businesses because the clients of our relocation services business often utilize the services of our franchisees and company owned brokerage offices as well as our title and settlement services. In 2005, our relocation services business contributed 7% to our revenues and 11% to our EBITDA.

Our relocation services business primarily offers its clients employee relocation services such as home sale assistance, home finding and other destination services, expense processing, relocation policy counseling and other consulting services, arranging household moving services, visa and immigration support, intercultural and language training and group move management services. Clients pay a fee for the services performed and we also receive commissions from third-party service providers, such as real estate brokers and household goods moving service providers. The majority of our clients pay interest on home equity advances and reimburse all costs associated with our services, including, where required, repayment of home equity advances and reimbursement of losses on the sale of homes purchased. We believe we provide our relocation clients with exceptional service which leads to client retention. Our top 25 relocation clients have an average tenure of 15 years with us.

Title and Settlement Services .  In most real estate transactions, a buyer will choose, or will be required, to purchase title insurance that will protect the purchaser and/or the mortgage lender against loss or damage in the event that title is not transferred properly. Our title and settlement services business, which we refer to as Title Resource Group, assists with the closing of a real estate transaction by providing full-service title and settlement (i.e., closing and escrow) services to real estate companies and financial institutions. In addition, we are an underwriter of title insurance policies in connection with residential and commercial real estate transactions. Our

 

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title and settlement services business was formed in 2002 in conjunction with Cendant’s acquisition of 100% of NRT to take advantage of the nationwide geographic presence of our company owned brokerage and relocation services businesses. From 2003 to 2005, our title and settlement services EBITDA grew at a CAGR of 3%. In 2005, our title and settlement services business contributed 4% to our revenues and 5% to our EBITDA.

Our title and settlement services business earns revenues through fees charged in real estate transactions for rendering title and other settlement and non-settlement related services as well as a commission on each title insurance policy sold. We provide many of these services in connection with transactions in which our company owned real estate brokerage and relocation services businesses are participating. The majority of our title and settlement service operations are located in or around our company owned brokerage locations, and during 2005, approximately 50% of the customers of our company owned brokerage offices where we provide coverage also utilized our title and settlement services. Fees for escrow and closing services are generally separate and distinct from premiums paid for title insurance and other real estate services. Our title underwriter generally earns revenues through the collection of premiums on policies that it issues.

Our Strengths

We believe that the following competitive strengths differentiate us from our competitors:

 

    Strong portfolio of leading real estate brands .  Our brands are among the most well known and established real estate brokerage brands in the world. The strong image and familiarity of our brands attract potential real estate buyers and sellers to seek out brokers affiliated with our brands. We believe that brand recognition is important in the real estate business because home buyers and sellers are generally infrequent users of brokerage services and typically rely on reputation as well as word-of-mouth recommendations.

 

    Significant scale and diversity .  We believe that the strong presence of each of our businesses in their respective industries and the broad range of real estate and relocation services that we offer provide us with advantages in the residential real estate market relative to our competitors. We believe that our size and scale reduces our operational risk and improves our operating efficiencies, profit margins and service levels. We also believe that our size enables us to access capital at a relatively low cost to fund strategic acquisitions to grow our business, which has contributed to our revenues and returns over time.

 

    Strong business model with stable cash flows.   We believe that our established role as an intermediary in the home sale process and the integrated business model that we have developed enable us to achieve profitability and stable cash flows. Our franchise operations have a recurring revenue base, generate high profit margins and require relatively minimal capital investment. Our company owned brokerage business provides significant revenues through the payment of royalties to our real estate franchise business, while having a cost structure with a relatively large variable cost component, which allows us to maintain our overall margins. Our business model and strong cash flow allow us the flexibility to grow through multiple avenues and focus on the areas that will maximize our return on capital.

 

   

Revenue enhancing “value circle” among our complementary businesses.   Each one of our businesses, as well as our interest in PHH Home Loans, provides an opportunity to cross-sell additional services to a customer and capture revenue from the different service components associated with residential real estate transactions. For instance, through Cartus and the over 120,000 individual relocations that we manage annually, we are able to capture incremental business opportunities through cross-selling many of our related products and services throughout our company. In addition, we are growing our title and settlement services business by leveraging the strong geographic presence of our company owned brokerage business and franchisees and increasing the percentage of our customers that use our title and settlement services business. We refer to this ability to capture revenues on several

 

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aspects of a real estate transaction as our “value circle.” We believe that our value circle uniquely positions us to generate additional revenue growth opportunities in all of our businesses and enhance the customer’s overall experience.

 

    Strong and experienced management team.   Our executive officers have extensive experience in the real estate industry, which we believe is an essential component to our future growth as a stand-alone real estate and relocation services company. Our experienced senior management team combines a deep knowledge of the real estate markets, an understanding of industry trends and a proven ability to identify, effect and integrate acquisitions.

 

    Innovative technology.   We believe that we effectively use innovative technology to attract more customers, enhance sales associates’ productivity and improve our profitability. We believe that our continued use and marketing of innovative technology, together with our aggressive Internet search engine marketing campaign, assisted in generating over 78 million visitors to our company owned real estate brokerage websites during 2005.

Our Strategy

Our goal is to be the leading provider of a broad range of world-class real estate and relocation services to our customers while increasing revenues and profitability across all of our businesses. Our business strategy is focused on the following initiatives:

 

    Expand and grow our real estate franchise business .  We intend to grow our real estate franchise business by selling new franchises, establishing and/or purchasing new brands, assisting current franchisees with their acquisitions and helping franchisees recruit productive sales associates. According to NAR, approximately 50% of sales associates in the U.S. work at brokerages that are unaffiliated with a national or regional franchise system. We believe our franchise sales force can effectively market our franchise systems to these unaffiliated brokerages. We will also continue to expand our international presence through the sale of international master franchise rights and by providing consulting services to the international master franchisors to facilitate growth in each respective territory.

 

    Effectively grow our company owned real estate brokerage business.   We will continue to grow our company owned real estate brokerage business both organically and through strategic acquisitions. To grow our business organically, our management will focus on working with office managers to recruit, retain and develop effective sales associates that can successfully engage and earn fees from new clients. We also intend to selectively open new offices and monitor existing offices to reduce strorefront costs while increasing operating efficiency. We will continue to be opportunistic and identify and make acquisitions in markets where there is potential for growth or that otherwise serve our overall long-term strategy and goals.

 

    Increase our relocation services client base and service offerings.   We intend to grow our relocation services business through a combination of adding new clients, providing additional services to existing clients and providing new product offerings. We also will continue to be a leader in providing global relocation services in existing and growing markets where our clients are placing employees, by expanding our global network presence with third party agents. We believe our comprehensive suite of services enables us to meet all of our clients’ global relocation needs.

 

    Expand our title and settlement services geographic coverage and capture rate.   We intend to grow our title and settlement services business through the completion of additional acquisitions, increasing the number of title and settlement services offices that are located in or around our company owned brokerage offices and through entering into contracts and ventures with our franchisees that will enable them to participate in the title and settlement services business. We will also continue to provide exceptional service to increase capture rates of available business at our existing locations.

 

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    Utilize new technology.   According to NAR, over 70% of all real estate purchasers currently use the Internet in their search for a new home. In addition, many potential new customers use the Internet to perform research on real estate brokers. Recognizing this trend, we are increasing the percentage of our advertising dollars that are spent on Internet based advertising relative to print ads and other traditional forms of advertising. In addition, we intend to continue to identify, acquire and market new technologies that will be more responsive to our customers’ needs and should help our sales associates to become more efficient and successful.

 

    Increase cross-selling opportunities arising from the value circle.   We will continue to take full advantage of our value circle and to increase revenues in all of our businesses by increasing our cross-selling opportunities. For example, we will seek to increase the percentage of successful referrals that our relocation services business makes to franchised and company owned brokerage offices through enhanced coordination as well as by maintaining a referral network that covers the entire United States.

The Separation

On October 23, 2005, the Board of Directors of Cendant preliminarily approved a plan to separate Cendant into four independent, publicly traded companies—one for each of Cendant’s Real Estate Services, Travel Distribution Services, Hospitality Services (including Timeshare Resorts) and Vehicle Rental businesses. The separation will occur through distributions to Cendant stockholders of all of the shares of common stock of three subsidiaries of Cendant that hold or will hold the assets and liabilities of the businesses other than the Vehicle Rental business which will remain after the distributions. Following each distribution, Cendant stockholders will own 100% of the common stock of the subsidiary being distributed. The distribution to Cendant stockholders of all of the shares of common stock of Realogy Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cendant that holds or will hold the assets and liabilities associated with Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses, is expected to be the first in the series of distributions to effectuate the plan to separate Cendant into four companies. The second distribution is expected to be of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (“Wyndham Worldwide”), the Cendant subsidiary that holds or will hold the assets and liabilities associated with Cendant’s Hospitality (including Timeshare Resorts) businesses and the third and final distribution is expected to be of the Cendant subsidiary that holds or will hold the assets and liabilities associated with Cendant’s Travel Distribution Services businesses (the “Travel Distribution Services company”). Following the final distribution, it is expected that Cendant will change its name to Avis Budget Group, Inc.

Before our separation from Cendant, we will enter into a Separation and Distribution Agreement and several other agreements with Cendant and Cendant’s other businesses to effect the separation and distribution and provide a framework for our relationships with Cendant and Cendant’s other businesses after the separation. These agreements will govern the relationships among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company subsequent to the completion of the separation plan and provide for the allocation among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company of Cendant’s assets, liabilities and obligations (including employee benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to periods prior to our separation from Cendant. The Separation and Distribution Agreement, in particular, requires Realogy to assume certain of Cendant’s contingent corporate and other liabilities and establishes the amount of debt that each separated company will initially incur that will be used to repay Cendant’s corporate debt.

The announcement of the proposed separation plan indicated that the Cendant Board believes that the separation is the best way to unlock the full value of Cendant’s businesses in both the short and long term, which the Cendant Board does not believe has been fully recognized by the investment community. Cendant believes that the separation into four independent, publicly traded companies should not only enhance their strength, but will also improve each company’s strategic, operational and financial flexibility. Although there can be no assurance, Cendant believes that over time following the separation, the common stock of the separated companies should have

 

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a higher aggregate market value, on a fully distributed basis and assuming the same market conditions, than if Cendant were to remain under its current configuration. Cendant expects that such value increase in the common stock should enhance the value of equity-based compensation for the employees of the separated companies and should permit the separated companies to effect future acquisitions with their own common stock, in a manner that preserves capital with significantly less dilution of the existing stockholders’ interests than would occur by issuing pre-distribution Cendant common stock, in each case, resulting in a real and substantial benefit for the companies. Further, the Cendant Board believes that the separation should allow each separated company to maintain a sharper focus on its core business and growth opportunities, which should allow each separated company to be better able to make the changes to its business necessary for it to respond to the industry in which it operates . See “The Separation—Reasons for the Separation,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

The Cendant Board expects to receive an opinion from Evercore Group L.L.C. to the effect that, as of the date of such opinion, the distribution is fair, from a financial point of view, to the stockholders of Cendant. The Cendant Board also expects to receive an opinion from Duff & Phelps, LLC to the effect that Realogy and Cendant will each be solvent and adequately capitalized immediately after the distribution and that Cendant has sufficient surplus under Delaware law to declare the dividend of Realogy common stock.

The distribution of our common stock as described in this information statement is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions. See “The Separation—Conditions to the Distribution,” included elsewhere in this information statement. Furthermore, we cannot provide any assurances that the distribution of either Wyndham Worldwide or the Travel Distribution Services company will be completed, nor can we provide information at this time with respect to the terms on which such other distributions will be consummated. The other distributions are subject to certain conditions precedent, including final approval of the Cendant Board.

We are a newly formed holding company that will, prior to the distribution, hold all of the assets and liabilities of Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses as a result of an internal reorganization implemented by Cendant. Our headquarters is located at One Campus Drive, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 and our general telephone number is (973) 496-6700. We maintain an Internet site at http://www.realogy.com. Our website and the information contained on that site, or connected to that site, are not incorporated by reference into this information statement.

 

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Questions and Answers about Realogy and the Separation

 

Why is the separation of Realogy structured as a distribution?

Cendant believes that a tax-free distribution of shares of Realogy and the other Cendant businesses is a tax-efficient way to separate the companies in a manner that will create benefits and/or value for us and Cendant and long-term value for Cendant stockholders.

 

How will the separation of Realogy work?

The separation will be accomplished through a series of transactions in which the equity interests of the entities that hold all of the assets and liabilities of Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses will be transferred to Realogy and the common stock of Realogy will be distributed by Cendant to its stockholders on a pro rata basis.

 

When will the distribution occur?

We expect that Cendant will distribute the shares of Realogy common stock on                     , 2006 to holders of record of Cendant common stock on                     , 2006, the record date.

 

What do stockholders need to do to participate in the distribution?

Nothing, but we urge you to read this entire document carefully. Stockholders who hold Cendant common stock as of the record date will not be required to take any action to receive Realogy common stock in the distribution. No stockholder approval of the distribution is required or sought. We are not asking you for a proxy and you are requested not to send us a proxy. You will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange your shares of Cendant common stock or take any other action to receive your shares of our common stock. If you own Cendant common stock as of the close of business on the record date, Cendant, with the assistance of Mellon Investor Services, the distribution agent, will electronically issue shares of our common stock to you or to your brokerage firm on your behalf by way of direct registration in book-entry form. Mellon Investor Services will mail you a book-entry account statement that reflects your shares of Realogy common stock, or your bank or brokerage firm will credit your account for the shares. If you sell shares of Cendant common stock in the “regular-way” market through the distribution date, you will be selling your right to receive shares of Realogy common stock in the distribution. Following the distribution, stockholders whose shares are held in book-entry form may request that their shares of Realogy common stock held in book-entry form be transferred to a brokerage or other account at any time, without charge.

 

Can Cendant decide to cancel the distribution of the common stock even if all the conditions have been met?

Yes. The distribution is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions. See “The Separation—Conditions to the Distribution,” included elsewhere in this information statement. Cendant has the right to terminate the distribution, even if all of the conditions are satisfied, if at any time the Board of Directors of Cendant determines that the distribution is not in the best interests of Cendant and its stockholders or that market conditions are such that it is not advisable to separate the Real Estate Services business from Cendant.

 

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Does Realogy plan to pay dividends?

The declaration and payment of any future dividends by us will be subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon many factors, including our financial condition, earnings, capital requirements of our operating subsidiaries, covenants associated with certain of our debt obligations, legal requirements, regulatory constraints and other factors deemed relevant by our Board.

 

Will Realogy have any debt?

Yes. In connection with the separation, Realogy expects to incur $2,175 million of debt. Our borrowing facilities are expected to consist of a $700 million term loan facility, an $800 million revolving credit facility and a $1,225 million interim loan facility. At or prior to the distribution, we intend to draw the entire amount of the term loan facility and the interim loan facility and $250 million of the revolving credit facility and will transfer this $2,175 million in proceeds to Cendant solely for the purpose of repaying certain indebtedness of Cendant. Historical Cendant debt has not been and will not be assigned to the Realogy businesses. The remaining availability under the revolving credit facility will be used to provide liquidity for ongoing working capital and for letters of credit issuance and other general corporate needs. We intend to replace the interim credit facility with permanent financing primarily through the issuance of debt securities.

 

 

Cartus, our relocation services subsidiary, has three pre-existing securitization programs to monetize certain relocation related assets. These programs will remain in place following the separation. As of December 31, 2005, $757 million was outstanding under these programs and $856 million of assets secured this indebtedness.

 

 

For additional information relating to our planned financing arrangements, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness” and “Description of Material Indebtedness” included elsewhere in this information statement.

 

What will the separation cost?

Cendant intends to incur pre-tax separation costs of approximately $990 million to $1,140 million. Over the 12 months following our separation the portion of these pre-tax costs expected to be recorded in our financial statements is approximately $105 million to $130 million. A majority of Realogy’s separation costs are expected to be non-cash.

 

What are the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the distribution to Cendant stockholders?

The distribution is conditioned upon Cendant’s receipt of an opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP substantially to the effect that the distribution, together with certain related transactions, should qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). Assuming the distribution so qualifies, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, no gain or loss will be recognized by you, and no amount will be included in your income, upon the receipt of shares of our common stock

 

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pursuant to the distribution. You generally will recognize gain or loss with respect to any cash received in lieu of a fractional share of our common stock. See “The Separation—Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

 

How will I determine the tax basis I will have in the Realogy shares I receive in the distribution?

Shortly after the distribution is completed, Cendant will provide United States taxpayers with information to enable them to compute their tax bases in both Cendant and Realogy shares and other information they will need to report their receipt of Realogy common stock on their 2006 U.S. federal income tax returns as a tax-free transaction. Generally, your aggregate tax basis in the stock you hold in Cendant and Realogy shares received in the distribution (including any fractional share interest in Realogy common stock for which cash is received) will equal your tax basis in your Cendant common stock immediately before the distribution, allocated between the Cendant common stock and Realogy common stock (including any fractional share interest of Realogy common stock for which cash is received) in proportion to their relative fair market values on the date of the distribution.

 

 

You should consult your tax advisor about the particular consequences of the distribution to you, including the application of state, local and foreign tax laws.

 

What will the relationships between Cendant and Realogy be following the separation?

Before the separation, we will enter into a Separation and Distribution Agreement and several other agreements with Cendant and Cendant’s other businesses to effect the separation and provide a framework for our relationships with Cendant and Cendant’s other businesses after the separation. These agreements will govern the relationships among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company subsequent to the completion of the separation plan and provide for the allocation among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company of Cendant’s assets, liabilities and obligations (including employee benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to periods prior to our separation from Cendant. The Separation and Distribution Agreement, in particular, requires Realogy to assume certain of Cendant’s contingent and other corporate liabilities and establishes the amount of the debt that each separated company will initially incur to repay Cendant’s corporate debt. We cannot assure you that these agreements will be on terms as favorable to us as agreements with independent third parties. See “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

 

 

Our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer will continue to serve as Cendant’s Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer until the distributions of both Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company have been completed. One of our independent directors is expected to serve as a director of the Travel Distribution Services company following its separation from

 

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Cendant. In addition, five of our independent directors will continue to serve as directors of Cendant until the completion of Cendant’s separation plan.

 

Will I receive physical certificates representing shares of Realogy common stock following the separation?

No. Following the separation, neither Cendant nor Realogy will be issuing physical certificates representing shares of Realogy common stock. Instead, Cendant, with the assistance of Mellon Investor Services, the distribution agent, will electronically issue shares of our common stock to you or to your bank or brokerage firm on your behalf by way of direct registration in book-entry form. Mellon Investor Services will mail you a book-entry account statement that reflects your shares of Realogy common stock, or your bank or brokerage firm will credit your account for the shares. A benefit of issuing stock electronically in book-entry form is that there will be none of the physical handling and safekeeping responsibilities that are inherent in owning physical stock certificates.

 

What if I want to sell my Cendant common stock or my Realogy common stock?

You should consult with your financial advisors, such as your stockbroker, bank or tax advisor. Neither Cendant nor Realogy makes any recommendations on the purchase, retention or sale of shares of Cendant common stock or the Realogy common stock to be distributed.

 

 

If you decide to sell any shares before the distribution, you should make sure your stockbroker, bank or other nominee understands whether you want to sell your Cendant common stock or the Realogy common stock you will receive in the distribution or both.

 

Where will I be able to trade shares of Realogy common stock?

There is not currently a public market for our common stock. We intend to apply to list our common stock on the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, under the symbol “H.” We anticipate that trading in shares of our common stock will begin on a “when-issued” basis on or shortly before the record date and will continue through the distribution date and that “regular-way” trading in shares of our common stock will begin on the first trading day following the distribution date. If trading begins on a “when-issued” basis, you may purchase or sell our common stock up to and including through the distribution date, but your transaction will not settle until after the distribution date. We cannot predict the trading prices for our common stock before, on or after the distribution date.

 

Will the number of Cendant shares I own change as a result of the distribution?

No. The number of shares of Cendant common stock you own will not change as a result of the distribution. However, it is anticipated that Cendant will seek to effect a reverse stock split after the completion of the distributions of both Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company.

 

What will happen to the listing of Cendant common stock?

Nothing. It is expected that after the distribution of Realogy common stock, Cendant common stock will continue to be traded on the NYSE under the symbol “CD.” After the final distribution, which, at this time, is expected to be of the Travel Distribution Services company,

 

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Cendant, which will comprise the Vehicle Rental business, is expected to change its name to Avis Budget Group, Inc. and its trading symbol to “CAR,” and the Cendant name and trading symbol are expected to be retired.

 

Will the distribution affect the market price of my Cendant shares?

Yes. As a result of the distribution, we expect the trading price of shares of Cendant common stock immediately following the distribution to be lower than immediately prior to the distribution because the trading price will no longer reflect the value of the Real Estate Services businesses. Furthermore, until the market has fully analyzed the value of Cendant without the Real Estate Services businesses, the price of Cendant shares may fluctuate significantly. In addition, although Cendant believes that over time following the separation, the common stock of the separated companies should have a higher aggregate market value, on a fully distributed basis and assuming the same market conditions, than if Cendant were to remain under its current configuration, there can be no assurance, and thus the combined trading prices of Cendant common stock and Realogy common stock after the distribution may be equal to or less than the trading price of shares of Cendant common stock before the distribution.

 

Are there risks to owning Realogy common stock?

Yes. Our business is subject to both general and specific risks relating to our business, our leverage, our relationship with Cendant and our being a separate publicly traded company. Our business is also subject to risks relating to the separation. These risks are described in the “Risk Factors” section of this information statement beginning on page 20. We encourage you to read that section carefully.

 

Where can Cendant stockholders get more information?

Before the separation, if you have any questions relating to the separation, you should contact:

 

 

Cendant Corporation

 

Investor Relations

 

9 West 57 th Street

 

New York, New York 10019

 

Tel: (212) 413-1800

 

Fax: (212) 413-1909

 

www.cendant.com

 

 

After the separation, if you have any questions relating to our

 

common stock, you should contact:

 

 

Realogy Corporation

 

Investor Relations

 

1 Campus Drive

 

Parsippany, New Jersey 07054

 

Tel: (973) 496-6700

 

Fax: (973) 496-6799

 

www.realogy.com

 

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The Separation

The following is a summary of the material terms of the separation and other related transactions.

 

Distributing company

Cendant Corporation. After the distribution, Cendant will not own any shares of our common stock.

 

Distributed company

Realogy Corporation, a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Cendant that was formed to hold all of the assets and liabilities of Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses. After the distribution, Realogy will be an independent public company. However, our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Cendant until the completion of the separation plan.

 

Distribution ratio

Each holder of Cendant common stock will receive one share of our common stock for every four shares of Cendant common stock held on                     , 2006. Cash will be distributed in lieu of fractional shares, as described below.

 

Distributed securities

All of the shares of Realogy common stock owned by Cendant, which will be 100% of our common stock outstanding immediately prior to the distribution. Based on the approximately 1 billion shares of Cendant common stock outstanding on March 24, 2006, and the distribution ratio of one share of Realogy common stock for every four shares of Cendant common stock, approximately 250 million shares of our common stock will be distributed to Cendant stockholders. The number of shares that Cendant will distribute to its stockholders will be reduced to the extent that cash payments are to be made in lieu of the issuance of fractional shares of our common stock.

 

Fractional shares

Cendant will not distribute any fractional shares of our common stock to its stockholders. Instead, the distribution agent will aggregate fractional shares into whole shares, sell the whole shares in the open market at prevailing market prices and distribute the aggregate net cash proceeds of the sales pro rata to each holder who otherwise would have been entitled to receive a fractional share in the distribution. 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. The receipt of cash in lieu of fractional shares generally will be taxable to the recipient stockholders as described in “The Distribution—Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

 

Record date

The record date for the distribution is the close of business on                     , 2006.

 

Distribution date

The distribution date is                     , 2006.

 

Distribution

On the distribution date, Cendant, with the assistance of Mellon Investor Services, the distribution agent, will electronically issue shares of our common stock to you or to your bank or brokerage firm

 

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on your behalf by way of direct registration in book-entry form. You will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange your shares of Cendant common stock or take any other action to receive your shares of our common stock. If you sell shares of Cendant common stock in the “regular-way” market through the distribution date, you will be selling your right to receive shares of Realogy common stock in the distribution. Registered stockholders will receive additional information from the distribution agent shortly after the distribution date. Following the distribution, stockholders whose shares are held in book-entry form may request that their shares of Realogy common stock be transferred to a brokerage or other account at any time, without charge. Beneficial stockholders that hold shares through brokerage firms will receive additional information from their brokerage firms shortly after the distribution date.

 

Conditions to the distribution

The distribution of our common stock is subject to the satisfaction or, if permissible under the Separation and Distribution Agreement, waiver by Cendant of the following conditions, among other conditions described in this information statement:

 

    the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) shall have declared effective our registration statement on Form 10, of which this information statement is a part, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and no stop order relating to the registration statement is in effect;

 

    all permits, registrations and consents required under the securities or blue sky laws of states or other political subdivisions of the United States or of other foreign jurisdictions in connection with the distribution shall have been received;

 

    Cendant has received a legal opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP substantially to the effect that the distribution together with certain related transactions, should qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code;

 

    our entry into various new debt facilities with a syndicate of financial institutions as described in “Description of Material Indebtedness,” included elsewhere in this information statement;

 

    the listing of our common stock on the NYSE shall have been approved, subject to official notice of issuance;

 

    the Cendant Board shall have received opinions from Duff & Phelps, LLC to the effect that we and Cendant will each be solvent and adequately capitalized immediately after the distribution and that Cendant has sufficient surplus under Delaware law to declare the dividend of Realogy common stock;

 

    the Cendant Board shall have received an opinion from Evercore Group L.L.C. to the effect that, as of the date of such opinion, the distribution is fair, from a financial point of view to the stockholders of Cendant;

 

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    any material government approvals and other consents necessary to consummate the distribution shall have been received;

 

    the securitization programs associated with our relocation business shall have been amended to permit our separation from Cendant; and

 

    no order, injunction or decree issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing consummation of the distribution or any of the transactions related thereto, including the transfers of assets and liabilities contemplated by the Separation and Distribution Agreement, shall be in effect.

 

 

The fulfillment of these conditions does not create any obligation on Cendant’s part to effect the distribution, and the Cendant Board has reserved the right, in its sole discretion, to amend, modify or abandon the distribution and related transactions at any time prior to the distribution date. Cendant has the right not to complete the distribution if, at any time, the Cendant Board determines, in its sole discretion, that the distribution is not in the best interests of Cendant or its stockholders or that market conditions are such that it is not advisable to separate the Real Estate Services businesses from Cendant.

 

Stock exchange listing

We intend to file an application to list our shares of common stock on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “H.” We anticipate that on or prior to the record date for the distribution, trading of shares of our common stock will begin on a “when-issued” basis and will continue up to and including through the distribution date. See “The Separation—Trading Between the Record Date and Distribution Date,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

 

 

After Cendant’s final distribution, Cendant, which is expected to comprise the Vehicle Rental business, is expected to change its name to Avis Budget Group, Inc. and its trading symbol to “CAR,” and the Cendant name and trading symbol are expected to be retired.

 

Transfer agent

Mellon Investor Services LLC

 

480 Washington Boulevard

 

Jersey City, New Jersey 07310

 

Telephone: (800) 589-9469

 

Incurrence of debt

In connection with the separation and distribution, we expect to incur $2,175 million of debt. Our borrowing facilities are expected to consist of a $700 million term loan facility, an $800 million revolving credit facility and a $1,225 million interim loan facility. At or prior to the distribution, we intend to draw the entire amount of the term loan facility and the interim loan facility and $250 million of the revolving credit facility and will transfer this $2,175 million to Cendant solely for the purpose of repaying certain indebtedness of Cendant. The remaining availability under the revolving credit facility will be used to provide liquidity for ongoing working capital and for letters of credit issuance and other general corporate needs.

 

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After the completion of the distribution, we expect to have $550 million of unused revolving credit availability, and we intend to replace the interim credit facility with $1,225 million of permanent financing primarily through the issuance of debt securities.

 

 

For additional information relating to our planned financing arrangements, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness” and “Description of Material Indebtedness,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

 

Risks relating to ownership of our common stock and the distribution

Our business is subject to both general and specific risks relating to our business, our leverage, our relationship with Cendant and our being a separate publicly traded company. Our business is also subject to risks relating to the separation. You should read carefully “Risk Factors,” beginning on page 20 in this information statement.

 

Tax considerations

Assuming the distribution, together with certain related transactions, qualifies as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Section 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code, no gain or loss will be recognized by a stockholder, and no amount will be included in the income of a stockholder, upon the receipt of shares of our common stock pursuant to the distribution. However, a stockholder will generally recognize gain or loss with respect to any cash received in lieu of a fractional share of our common stock as described in “The Separation—Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

 

Certain Agreements with Cendant

Before the distribution, we will enter into a Separation and Distribution Agreement and several other agreements with Cendant and Cendant’s other businesses to effect the separation and distribution and provide a framework for our relationships with Cendant and Cendant’s other businesses after the separation. These agreements will govern the relationships among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company subsequent to the completion of the separation plan and provide for the allocation among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company of Cendant’s assets, liabilities and obligations (including employee benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to periods prior to our separation from Cendant. The Separation and Distribution Agreement, in particular, requires Realogy to assume certain of Cendant’s contingent and other corporate liabilities and establishes the amount of the debt that each separated company will initially incur to repay Cendant’s corporate debt. For a discussion of these arrangements, see “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

 

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Summary Historical and Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Data

The following table presents our summary historical and unaudited pro forma combined financial data, as well as certain operating statistics. The combined statement of income data for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2005 and the combined balance sheet data as of December 31, 2005 and 2004 have been derived from our audited combined financial statements included elsewhere herein. The combined balance sheet data as of December 31, 2003 is derived from our unaudited combined financial statements and, in the opinion of our management, include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the information set forth herein.

The unaudited pro forma combined financial data have been derived from our historical combined financial statements and adjusted to give effect to the following transactions:

 

    the formation of Realogy and a contribution of all the assets and liabilities, including the entities holding substantially all of the assets and liabilities, of Cendant’s real estate services business,

 

    the planned distribution of our common stock to Cendant stockholders by Cendant (assuming a four to one distribution ratio) and the related transfer of certain corporate assets and liabilities (for which we are expected to assume approximately 50%) to us from Cendant (including those relating to unresolved tax and legal matters, which may not be resolved for several years),

 

    $2,175 million of planned borrowings under a term loan facility, an interim loan facility and a revolving credit facility we expect to enter into prior to our separation from Cendant,

 

    the funding of $14 million of estimated financing costs expected to be incurred in connection with the above planned borrowings,

 

    estimated incremental costs associated with operating as a separate public company,

 

    estimated incremental interest expense associated with the planned borrowings, which is calculated using current rates in effect since such borrowings are not yet committed, and

 

    the expected transfer of $2,175 million to Cendant, representing the proceeds received in connection with the above planned borrowings.

The unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet data assumes that the distribution and related transactions occurred on December 31, 2005 and the unaudited pro forma combined statement of income data assumes that the distribution and related transactions occurred on January 1, 2005. The pro forma adjustments are based upon available information and assumptions that we believe are reasonable; however, such adjustments are subject to change based upon the finalization of the terms of the separation and the underlying separation agreements.

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of income does not reflect certain pre-tax charges (which are currently estimated to be in the range of $120 million to $155 million) that are either non-recurring or are not directly attributable to the separation, which will impact net income within the 12 months following the transaction, the majority of which will be non-cash. Included within such range is (i) an estimate of $40 million to $50 million relating to the acceleration of certain Cendant equity awards and (ii) an estimate of $15 million to $25 million relating to restructuring activities to be undertaken in 2006, which are expected to benefit future periods (of which $10 million to $20 million relates to our real estate brokerage business). Additionally, the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statement of income does not reflect any expenses associated with liabilities that may be required to be established for guarantees we expect to provide to Cendant in connection with the separation.

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet does not reflect liabilities that may be required to be established in connection with guarantees we expect to provide to Cendant in connection with the separation. Any such liabilities, which could be material, will reflect the fair value of the guarantees, which is currently being determined. Upon determination of the fair values, we expect to increase pro forma liabilities by such amount with a corresponding decrease to pro forma invested equity.

 

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     Pro Forma   

As of or For the Year Ended

December 31,

 
     2005    2005     2004     2003  
     (In millions, except operating statistics)  

Statement of Income Data:

         

Net revenue

   $ 7,139    $ 7,139     $ 6,549     $ 5,532  

Total expenses

     6,304      6,101       5,548       4,672  
                               

Income before income taxes and minority interest

   $ 835    $ 1,038     $ 1,001     $ 860  
                               

Net income

   $ 504    $ 627     $ 618     $ 569  

EBITDA (a)

     1,107      1,167       1,115       932  

Balance Sheet Data:

         

Secured assets (b)

   $ 856    $ 856     $ 497     $ 485  

Total assets

     5,643      5,439       5,015       4,769  

Secured obligations

     757      757       400       400  

Invested equity

     1,346      3,567       3,552       2,973  

Operating Statistics:

         

Real Estate Franchise Services (c)

         

Closed homesale sides (d)

        1,848,000       1,814,165       1,686,434  

Average homesale price (e)

      $ 224,486     $ 197,547     $ 175,347  

Average homesale brokerage commission rate (f)

        2.51 %     2.56 %     2.62 %

Net effective royalty rate (g)

        4.69 %     4.69 %     4.77 %

Royalty per side (h)

      $ 271     $ 247     $ 228  

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services (i)

         

Closed homesale sides (d)

        468,248       488,658       476,627  

Average homesale price (e)

      $ 470,538     $ 407,757     $ 341,050  

Average homesale brokerage commission rate (f)

        2.49 %     2.53 %     2.58 %

Gross commission income per side (j)

      $ 12,100     $ 10,635     $ 9,036  

Relocation Services

         

Initiations (k)

        121,717       115,516       111,184  

Referrals (l)

        91,787       89,416       82,942  

Title and Settlement Services

         

Purchase title and closing units (m)

        148,316       144,699       143,827  

Refinance title and closing units (n)

        51,903       55,909       117,674  

Average price per closing unit (o)

      $ 1,384     $ 1,262     $ 1,033  

(a) Represents net income before depreciation and amortization, interest expense (other than interest expense relating to secured obligations), income taxes and minority interest, each of which is presented on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income. We believe that EBITDA is useful as a supplemental measure in evaluating the aggregate performance of our operating businesses and provides greater transparency into our combined results of operations. EBITDA is the measure that is used by our management, including our chief operating decision maker, to perform such evaluation, and it is a factor in measuring compliance with debt covenants relating to secured borrowing arrangements within our relocation business. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income or other income statement data prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and our presentation of EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.
(b) Represents the portion of relocation receivables and advances, relocation properties held for sale and other related assets that collateralize our secured obligations. Refer to Note 9 to the Combined Financial Statements for further information.

 

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Provided below is a reconciliation of EBITDA to income before income taxes and minority interest for 2005 on a pro forma basis and each of years in the three year period ended December 31, 2005.

 

     Pro
Forma
                  
     2005    2005     2004     2003  

EBITDA

   $ 1,107    $ 1,167     $ 1,115     $ 932  

Less: Depreciation and amortization

     142      136       120       110  

         Interest income, net

     130      (7 )     (6 )     (38 )
                               

Income before income taxes and minority interest

     835      1,038       1,001       860  

Less: Provision for income taxes

     328      408       379       285  

         Minority interest, net of tax

     3      3       4       6  
                               

Net income

   $ 504    $ 627     $ 618     $ 569  
                               
(c) Real Estate Franchise amounts include only those amounts related to our third-party franchisees and do not include amounts related to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment.
(d) A closed homesale side represents either the “buy” side or the “sell” side of a homesale transaction.
(e) Represents the average selling price of closed homesale transactions.
(f) Represents the average commission rate earned on either the “buy” side or “sell” side of a homesale transaction. Although our average homesale brokerage commission rate has moderated, the resultant impact has been offset by higher home sale prices and an increase in homesale volume.
(g) Represents the average percentage of our franchisees’ commission revenues (excluding NRT) paid to our Real Estate Franchise Services segment as a royalty. Our net effective royalty rate continued to decline due to the fact that our larger franchisees earn greater volume incentives, which are provided in proportion to the gross commission income earned by the franchisee.
(h) Represents net domestic royalties earned from our franchisees (excluding NRT) divided by the total number of our franchisees’ closed homesale sides.
(i) Our real estate brokerage business has a significant concentration of offices and transactions in geographic regions where home prices are at the higher end of the U.S. real estate market, particularly the east and west coasts. The real estate franchise business has franchised offices that are more widely dispersed across the United States than our real estate brokerage operations. Accordingly, operating results and homesale statistics may differ between our brokerage and franchise businesses based upon geographic presence and the corresponding homesale activity in each geographic region.
(j) Represents gross commission income divided by closed homesale sides.
(k) Represents the total number of transferees served by the relocation services business.
(l) Represents the number of referrals from which we received revenue from real estate brokers.
(m) Represents the number of title and closing units processed as a result of a home purchases.
(n) Represents the number of title and closing units processed as a result of homeowners refinancing their home loans.
(o) Represents the average fee we earn on purchase title and refinancing title units.

 

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RISK FACTORS

You should carefully consider each of the following risk factors and all of the other information set forth in this information statement. The risk factors generally have been separated into three groups: (i) risks relating to our business, (ii) risks relating to the separation and (iii) risks relating to our common stock. Based on the information currently known to us, we believe that the following information identifies the most significant risk factors affecting our company in each of these categories of risks. However, the risks and uncertainties our company faces are not limited to those set forth in the risk factors described below. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial may also adversely affect our business. In addition, past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods.

If any of the following risks and uncertainties develops into actual events, these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. In such case, the trading price of our common stock could decline.

Risks Relating to Our Business

Adverse developments in general business, economic and political conditions could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and our results of operations.

Our business and operations are sensitive to general business and economic conditions in the United States and worldwide. These conditions include short-term and long-term interest rates, inflation, fluctuations in debt and equity capital markets and the general condition of the U.S. and world economy.

A host of factors beyond our control could cause fluctuations in these conditions, including the political environment and acts or threats of war or terrorism. Adverse developments in these general business and economic conditions, including through recession, downturn or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and our results of operations.

Our business is significantly affected by the monetary policies of the federal government and its agencies. We are particularly affected by the policies of the Federal Reserve Board, which regulates the supply of money and credit in the United States. The Federal Reserve Board’s policies affect the real estate market through its effect on interest rates as well as the pricing on our interest-earning assets and the cost of our interest-bearing liabilities. Changes in these policies are beyond our control, are difficult to predict and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

A decline in the number of home sales and/or prices could adversely affect our revenues and profitability.

In recent years, based on information published by NAR, existing home sales volumes have risen to their highest levels in history. NAR and the Federal National Mortgage Association, or Fannie Mae, are forecasting, as of March 2006, 6% and 9% decreases, respectively, in the number of existing home sales during 2006 compared to 2005. The residential real estate market tends to be cyclical and typically is affected by changes in general economic conditions which are beyond our control. Any of the following could have a material adverse effect on our business by causing a general decline in the number of home sales and/or prices which, in turn, could adversely affect our revenues and profitability:

 

    periods of economic slowdown or recession;

 

    rising interest rates and general availability of mortgage financing;

 

    adverse changes in local or regional economic conditions;

 

    a decrease in the affordability of homes;

 

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    local, state and federal government regulation;

 

    shifts in populations away from the markets that we or our franchisees serve;

 

    tax law changes, including potential limits or elimination of the deductibility of certain mortgage interest expense, the application of the alternative minimum tax, real property taxes and employee relocation expenses;

 

    decreasing home ownership rates;

 

    declining demand for real estate; and/or

 

    acts of God, such as hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural disasters.

A sustained decline in existing home sales, and any resulting sustained decline in home prices, could adversely affect our results of operations by reducing the royalties we receive from our franchisees and company owned brokerages, reducing the commissions our company owned brokerage operations earn, reducing the demand for our title and settlement services, reducing the referral fees earned by our relocation services business and increasing the risk that our relocation services business will suffer losses in the sale of homes relating to its “at risk” home sale service contracts (i.e., where we purchase the transferring employee’s home and assume the risk of loss in the resale of such home).

Competition in the residential real estate and relocation business is intense and may adversely affect our financial performance.

Competition in the residential real estate services business is intense. As a real estate brokerage franchisor, our products are our brand names and the support services we provide to our franchisees. Competition among national brand franchisors in the real estate brokerage industry to grow their franchise systems is intense. Upon the expiration of a franchise agreement, a franchisee may choose to franchise with one of our competitors or operate as an independent broker. Competitors may offer franchisees whose franchise agreements are expiring similar products and services at rates that are lower than we charge. Our largest national competitors in this industry include Prudential, GMAC Real Estate and RE/MAX real estate brokerage brands. Some of these companies may have greater financial resources than we do, including greater marketing and technology budgets. Regional and local franchisors provide additional competitive pressure in certain areas. We believe that competition for the sale of franchises is based principally upon the perceived value and quality of the brand and services, the nature of those services offered to franchisees and the fees the franchisees must pay. To remain competitive in the sale of franchises and to retain our existing franchisees, we may have to reduce the fees we charge our franchisees to be competitive with those charged by competitors, which may accelerate if market conditions deteriorate. Our franchisees are generally in intense competition with franchisees of other systems and independent real estate brokers. Our revenue will vary directly with our franchisees’ revenue, but is not directly dependent upon our franchisees’ profitability. If competition results in lower average brokerage commission rates or lower sales volume by our franchisees, our revenues will be affected adversely.

Our company owned brokerage business, like that of our franchisees, is generally in intense competition with franchisees of other systems, independent real estate brokerages, owner-operated chains and, in certain markets, our franchisees. We face competition from large regional brokerage firms as well as local brokerage firms, but such competition is limited to the markets in which such competitors operate. Competition is particularly severe in the densely populated metropolitan areas in which we compete. In addition, the real estate brokerage industry has minimal barriers to entry for new participants, including participants pursuing non-traditional methods of marketing real estate, such as Internet-based brokerage. Real estate brokers compete for sales and marketing business primarily on the basis of services offered, reputation, personal contacts and brokerage commission. As with our real estate franchise business, a decrease in the average brokerage commission rate may adversely affect our revenues. We also compete for the services of qualified licensed sales associates. Such competition could reduce the commission amounts retained by our company after giving effect to the split with sales associates and possibly increase the amounts that we spend on marketing.

 

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In our relocation services business, we compete with global and regional outsourced relocation service providers, human resource outsourcing companies and international accounting firms. These human resource outsourcing companies may own or have relationships with other relocation companies. For example, Hewitt Associates, a large human resource outsourcing company, owns its own relocation company. Other human resource outsourcing companies may be seeking to acquire relocation companies or develop preferred relationships with one of our competitors. The larger outsourced relocation service providers that we compete with include Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services, Inc., Sirva, Inc. and Weichert Relocation Resources, Inc.

The title and settlement services industry is highly competitive and fragmented. The number and size of competing companies vary in the different areas in which we conduct business. We compete directly with title insurers, title agents and other vendor management companies. While we are an agent for some of the large title insurers, we also compete with the owned agency operations of these insurers. Competition among underwriters of title insurance policies is much less fragmented, although also very intense. According to the American Land Title Association’s 2005 market share data, the top five title insurance companies accounted for a significant share of total industry net premiums collected in 2005, while more than 40 additional independent title insurance companies also provide a competitive presence.

Several of our businesses are highly regulated and any failure to comply with such regulations or any changes in such regulations could adversely affect our business.

Several of our businesses are highly regulated. The sale of franchises is regulated by various state laws as well as by the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”). The FTC requires that franchisors make extensive disclosure to prospective franchisees but does not require registration. A number of states require registration or disclosure in connection with franchise offers and sales. In addition, several states have “franchise relationship laws” or “business opportunity laws” that limit the ability of franchisors to terminate franchise agreements or to withhold consent to the renewal or transfer of these agreements. While we believe that our franchising operations are in compliance with such existing regulations, we cannot predict the effect any existing or future legislation or regulation may have on our business operation or financial condition.

Our real estate brokerage business must comply with the requirements governing the licensing and conduct of real estate brokerage and brokerage-related businesses in the jurisdictions in which we do business. These laws and regulations contain general standards for and prohibitions on the conduct of real estate brokers and sales associates, including those relating to licensing of brokers and sales associates, fiduciary and agency duties, administration of trust funds, collection of commissions, advertising and consumer disclosures. Under state law, our real estate brokers have the duty to supervise and are responsible for the conduct of their brokerage business.

Our company owned real estate brokerage business, our relocation business, our title and settlement service business and the businesses of our franchisees (excluding commercial brokerage transactions) must comply with the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (“RESPA”). RESPA and comparable state statutes, among other things, restrict payments which real estate brokers, agents and other settlement service providers may receive for the referral of business to other settlement service providers in connection with the closing of real estate transactions. Such laws may to some extent restrict preferred vendor arrangements involving our franchisees and our company owned brokerage business. Additionally, as noted above, our title and settlement services and relocation businesses must comply with RESPA and similar state insurance and other laws. RESPA and similar state laws require timely disclosure of certain relationships or financial interests that a broker has with providers of real estate settlement services.

There is a risk that we could be adversely affected by current laws, regulations or interpretations or that more restrictive laws, regulations or interpretations will be adopted in the future that could make compliance more difficult or expensive. There is also a risk that a change in current laws could adversely affect our business. In September 2005, the Justice Department filed a lawsuit against NAR, of which sales associates associated with our company owned brokerage companies and franchisees are members, asserting that certain adopted rules

 

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regarding the sharing of online property listings between real estate brokers in the marketplace are anticompetitive. The Justice Department contends that the rules discriminate against Internet-based brokers. If NAR is forced to change its rules regarding the sharing and display of online property listings, various changes in the marketplace could occur, including a loss of control over the distribution of our listings data, an increase in referral fees, and/or other changes.

In 2002, Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) began an inquiry into government agency spending on employee relocation programs. His concerns were prompted by several high profile, high cost government employee relocations. The Senator’s focus has been on relocation data management, relocation oversight, policy design and cost containment by the U.S. General Services Administration and the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. As one of the seven larger relocation service providers to the U.S. government, Cartus, our relocation services subsidiary, has been active in providing Senator Grassley’s staff with information and data on government relocation spending and meeting with the Senator and his staff. Cartus has been actively represented on the Government-wide Relocation Advisory Board (the “Advisory Board”), which was established to provide constructive solutions to the U.S. General Services Administration. The Advisory Board recently issued its recommendations which are currently under consideration by the U.S. General Services Administration, the Office of Management and Budget and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Any possible financial impact on Cartus of Senator Grassley’s inquiry is not yet clear. Further, it is not clear whether some or all of the Advisory Board recommendations will be adopted, and what, if any, financial impact they will have on Cartus.

In addition, regulatory authorities have relatively broad discretion to grant, renew and revoke licenses and approvals and to implement regulations. Accordingly, such regulatory authorities could prevent or temporarily suspend us from carrying on some or all of our activities or otherwise penalize us if our practices were found not to comply with the then current regulatory or licensing requirements or any interpretation of such requirements by the regulatory authority. Our failure to comply with any of these requirements or interpretations could have a material adverse effect on our operations.

Our title and settlement services and relocation businesses are also subject to various federal, state and local governmental statutes and regulations, including RESPA. In particular, our title insurance business is subject to regulation by insurance and other regulatory authorities in each state in which we provide title insurance. State regulations may impede or impose burdensome conditions on our ability to take actions that we may want to take to enhance our operating results. In addition, RESPA and comparable state statutes restrict payments which title and settlement services companies and relocation services companies may receive in connection with their services. We cannot assure you that future legislative or regulatory changes will not adversely affect our business operations.

We are also, to a lesser extent, subject to various other rules and regulations such as:

 

    the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act which governs the disclosure and safeguarding of consumer financial information;

 

    various state and federal privacy laws;

 

    the USA PATRIOT Act;

 

    restrictions on transactions with persons on the Specialty Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list promulgated by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury;

 

    federal and state “Do Not Call” and “Do Not Fax” laws;

 

    “controlled business” statutes, which impose limitations on affiliations between providers of title and settlement services, on the one hand, and real estate brokers, mortgage lenders and other real estate providers, on the other hand;

 

    the Fair Housing Act; and

 

    laws and regulations in jurisdictions outside the United States in which we do business.

 

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Our failure to comply with any of the forgoing laws and regulations may subject us to fines, penalties, injunctions and/or potential criminal violations. Any changes to these laws or regulations or any new laws or regulations may make it more difficult for us to operate our business and may have a material adverse effect on our operations.

Seasonal fluctuations in the residential real estate brokerage and relocation businesses could adversely affect our business.

The residential real estate brokerage business is subject to seasonal fluctuations. Historically, real estate brokerage revenues and relocation revenues have been strongest in the second and third quarters of the calendar year. However, many of our expenses, such as rent and personnel, are fixed and cannot be reduced during a seasonal slowdown. As a result, we may be required to borrow cash in order to fund operations during seasonal slowdowns or at other times. Since the terms of our indebtedness may restrict our ability to incur additional debt, we cannot assure that we would be able to borrow such cash. Our inability to finance our funding needs during a seasonal slowdown or at other times could have a material adverse effect on us.

Our brokerage operations are concentrated in metropolitan areas which could subject us to local and regional economic conditions that could differ materially from prevailing conditions in other parts of the country.

Our subsidiary, NRT, owns real estate brokerage offices located in and around large metropolitan areas in the United States. Local and regional economic conditions in these locations could differ materially from prevailing conditions in other parts of the country. NRT has more offices and realizes more of its revenues in California, Florida and the New York metropolitan area than any other regions of the country. In 2005, NRT realized, on a combined basis, approximately 60% of its revenues from California (27%), Florida (12%) and the New York metropolitan area (22%). A downturn in residential real estate demand or economic conditions in these regions could result in a decline in NRT’s total gross commission income and have a material adverse effect on us. In addition, given the significant geographic overlap of our title and settlement services business with our company owned brokerage offices, such regional declines affecting our company owned brokerage operations could have an adverse effect on our title and settlement services business as well.

During 2005, 2004 and 2003, we generated 27%, 27% and 26%, respectively, of our revenues from transactions in the state of California, substantially all of which was generated from our company owned brokerage operations. A downturn in residential real estate demand or economic conditions in California could result in a decline in our overall revenues and have a material adverse effect on us.

We may not have the ability to complete future acquisitions.

We have pursued an active acquisition strategy as a means of strengthening our businesses and have sought to integrate acquisitions into our operations to achieve economies of scale. Our company owned brokerage business has completed more than 300 acquisitions since its formation in 1997 and, in 2004, we acquired the Sotheby’s International Realty residential brokerage business and entered into an exclusive license agreement for the rights to the Sotheby’s International Realty trademarks with which we are in the process of building the Sotheby’s International Realty franchise system. In January 2006, we acquired our title insurance underwriter and certain title agencies. As a result of these and other acquisitions, we have derived a substantial portion of our growth in revenues and net income from acquired businesses. The success of our future acquisition strategy will continue to depend upon our ability to find suitable acquisition candidates on favorable terms and to finance and complete these transactions. Our inability to complete acquisitions could have a material adverse effect on our growth strategy.

We may not realize anticipated benefits from future acquisitions.

Upon completion of an acquisition, we encounter risks related to the possible inability to integrate the acquired business into our operations, the possible defection of a significant number of employees and sales associates, the increased amortization of intangibles, the diversion of management’s attention and unanticipated problems or liabilities. These risks may adversely affect our ability to realize anticipated cost savings and revenue growth from our acquisitions.

 

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Our franchisees and sales associates could take actions that could harm our business.

Our franchisees are independent business operators and the sales associates that work with our company owned brokerage operations are independent contractors, and, as such, neither are our employees, and we do not exercise control over their day-to-day operations. Our franchisees may not successfully operate a real estate brokerage business in a manner consistent with our standards, or may not hire and train qualified sales associates and other employees. If our franchisees and sales associates were to provide diminished quality of service to customers, our image and reputation may suffer materially and affect our results of operations.

Additionally, franchisees and sales associates may engage or be accused of engaging in unlawful or tortious acts such as, for example, violating the anti-discrimination requirements of the Fair Housing Act. Such acts or the accusation of such acts could harm our and our brands’ image, reputation and goodwill.

Franchisees, as independent business operators, may from time to time disagree with us and our strategies regarding the business or our interpretation of our respective rights and obligations under the franchise agreement. This may lead to disputes with our franchisees and we expect such disputes to occur from time to time in the future as we continue to offer franchises. To the extent we have such disputes, the attention of our management and our franchisees will be diverted, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Our relocation business is subject to risks related to acquiring, carrying and reselling real estate.

In a limited number of transactions (approximately 12% of our relocation business home sale transactions), our relocation business enters into “at-risk” home sale transactions whereby we acquire the home being sold by relocating employees and bear the risk of all expenses associated with acquiring, carrying and selling the home, including potential loss on sale. In approximately 60% of these “at-risk” home sale transactions, the ultimate third party buyer is under contract at the time we become the owner of the home. For the remaining 40% of these “at-risk” home sale transactions, adverse economic conditions could reduce the value of such homes, which would potentially increase the losses that we may incur on reselling the homes. In addition, if homes are held for a longer period of time prior to their sale, our carrying costs would increase.

Clients of our relocation business may terminate their contracts at any time.

Substantially all of our contracts with our relocation clients are terminable at any time at the option of the client. If a client terminates its contract, we will only be compensated for all services performed up to the time of termination and reimbursed for all expenses incurred up to the time of termination. If a significant number of our relocation clients terminate their contracts with us, our results of operations may be materially adversely affected.

We may experience significant claims relating to our operations and losses resulting from fraud, defalcation or misconduct.

We issue title insurance policies which provide coverage for real property mortgage lenders and buyers of real property. When acting as a title agent issuing a policy on behalf of an underwriter, our insurance risk is limited to the first $5,000 of claims on any one policy. Our recently acquired title underwriter underwrites title insurance policies on properties up to $1.5 million. For properties valued in excess of this amount, we obtain a reinsurance policy from a national underwriter. We may also be subject to legal claims arising from the handling of escrow transactions and closings. We carry errors and omissions insurance coverage for errors made during the real estate settlement process of up to $50 million per occurrence, $50 million in the aggregate, subject to a deductible of $2.5 million per occurrence. The occurrence of a significant title or escrow claim in any given period could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations during the period.

Fraud, defalcation and misconduct by employees are also risks inherent in our business. At any point in time, we are the custodians of approximately $500 million of cash deposited by customers with specific

 

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instructions as to its disbursement from escrow, trust and account servicing files. We carry insurance covering the loss or theft of funds of up to $50 million annually in the aggregate, subject to a deductible of $2.5 million per occurrence. To the extent that any loss or theft of funds substantially exceeds our insurance coverage, our business could be materially adversely affected.

We would be subject to severe losses if banks do not honor our escrow deposits.

Our company owned brokerage business and our title and settlement services business act as escrow agents for numerous customers. As an escrow agent, we receive money from customers to hold until certain conditions are satisfied. Upon the satisfaction of those conditions, we release the money to the appropriate party. We deposit this money with various banks including Comerica Bank National Association, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and SunTrust Bank National Association, which hold a significant amount of such deposits in excess of the federal deposit insurance limit. If Comerica, SunTrust or any of our other depository banks were to become unable to honor our deposits, we could be responsible for these deposits, which could equal up to $535 million.

Title insurance regulations limit the ability of our insurance underwriters to pay cash dividends to us.

Our title insurance underwriters are subject to regulations that limit their ability to pay dividends or make loans or advances to us, principally to protect policy holders. Generally, these regulations limit the total amount of dividends and distributions to a certain percentage of the insurance subsidiary’s surplus, or 100% of statutory net income for the previous calendar year. These restrictions could limit our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders, repay our indebtedness, make acquisitions or otherwise grow our business.

We may be unable to continue to securitize certain of our relocation assets which may adversely impact our liquidity.

At December 31, 2005, approximately $757 million of debt was outstanding through various bankruptcy remote special purpose entities (“SPEs”) monetizing certain assets of our relocation services business. Through these SPEs, we securitize relocation receivables and advances, relocation properties held for sale and other related assets and the proceeds from the securitization of such assets are used to fund our current working capital needs. Our ability to securitize these assets or receivables depends upon the amount of such receivables and other assets that we hold, the performances of these assets, the market for similar securitized assets, the interest of securities dealers in making a market in the securitized assets and other factors. If we are unable to continue to securitize these assets, we may be required to find additional sources of liquidity which may be on less favorable terms.

We are dependent on our senior management and a loss of any of our senior managers may adversely affect our business and results of operations.

We believe that our future growth depends, in part, on the continued services of our senior management team. Losing the services of any members of our senior management team could adversely affect our strategic and customer relationships and impede our ability to execute our growth strategies.

Our debt rating may suffer a downgrade, which may restrict our access to capital markets.

As a result of national and/or global economic and political events, it is possible that the rating agencies may downgrade the rating and/or outlook for many of the companies in the real estate industry, including our company, and a downgrade below investment grade could increase our borrowing costs and therefore could adversely affect our financial results. In addition, it is possible that rating agencies may downgrade our rating and our outlook for the company based on our results of operations and financial condition. Pricing of any amounts drawn under our syndicated bank credit facilities, for example, includes a spread to LIBOR that increases as our ratings from Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s decrease. A downgrade in our credit rating below investment grade could also result in an increase in the amount of collateral required by our letters of credit.

 

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The cost of compliance or failure to comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 may adversely affect our business.

As a new reporting company under the Exchange Act, we will be subject to certain provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which may result in higher compliance costs and may adversely affect our financial results and our ability to attract and retain qualified members of our Board of Directors or qualified executive officers. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act affects corporate governance, securities disclosure, compliance practices, internal audits, disclosure controls and procedures, and financial reporting and accounting systems. Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, for example, requires companies subject to the reporting requirements of the United States securities laws to do a comprehensive evaluation of its and its consolidated subsidiaries’ internal controls over financial reporting. We will be required to provide our Section 404 evaluation beginning with our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007. The failure to comply with Section 404, when we are required to comply, may result in investors losing confidence in the reliability of our financial statements (which may result in a decrease in the trading price of our common stock), prevent us from providing the required financial information in a timely manner (which could materially and adversely impact our business, our financial condition and the trading price of our common stock), prevent us from otherwise complying with the standards applicable to us as a public company and subject us to adverse regulatory consequences.

Our international operations are subject to risks not generally experienced by our United States operations.

Our relocation services business operates worldwide, and to a lesser extent, our real estate franchise services and company owned real estate brokerage businesses have international operations. Our international operations are subject to risks not generally experienced by our United States operations, and if such risks materialize our profitability may be adversely affected. The risks involved in our international operations that could result in losses against which we are not insured and therefore affect our profitability include:

 

    exposure to local economic conditions;

 

    potential adverse changes in the diplomatic relations of foreign countries with the United States;

 

    hostility from local populations;

 

    restrictions on the withdrawal of foreign investment and earnings;

 

    government policies against businesses owned by foreigners;

 

    investment restrictions or requirements;

 

    diminished ability to legally enforce our contractual rights in foreign countries;

 

    foreign exchange restrictions;

 

    fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates;

 

    withholding and other taxes on remittances and other payments by subsidiaries; and

 

    changes in foreign taxation structures.

We are subject to certain risks related to litigation filed by or against us, and adverse results may harm our business.

We cannot predict with certainty the cost of defense, the cost of prosecution or the ultimate outcome of litigation and other proceedings filed by or against us, including remedies or damage awards, and adverse results in such litigation and other proceedings may harm our business. Such litigation and other proceedings may include, but are not limited to, actions relating to intellectual property, commercial arrangements, employment law or other harm resulting from negligence or fraud by individuals or entities outside of our control, including franchisees, and independent contractors, such as sales associates. In the case of intellectual property litigation and proceedings, adverse outcomes could include the cancellation, invalidation or other loss of material

 

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intellectual property rights used in our business and injunctions prohibiting our use of business processes or technology that is subject to third party patents or other third party intellectual property rights. We are generally not liable for the actions of our franchisees; however, there is no assurance that we would be insulated from liability in all cases.

We are reliant upon information technology to operate our business and maintain our competitiveness, and any disruption or reduction in our information technology capabilities could harm our business.

Our business depends upon the use of sophisticated information technologies and systems, including technology and systems utilized for communications, procurement, call center operations and administrative systems. The operation of these technologies and systems is dependent upon third party technologies, systems and services, for which there are no assurances of continued or uninterrupted availability and support by the applicable third party vendors on commercially reasonable terms. We also cannot assure you that we will be able to continue to effectively operate and maintain our information technologies and systems. In addition, our information technologies and systems are expected to require refinements and enhancements on an ongoing basis, and we expect that advanced new technologies and systems will continue to be introduced. There can be no assurances that we will be able to obtain new technologies and systems, or replace or introduce new technologies and systems as quickly as our competitors or in a cost-effective manner. Also, there can be no assurances that we will achieve the benefits anticipated or required from any new technology or system, or that we will be able to devote financial resources to new technologies and systems in the future.

In addition, our information technologies and systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption from various causes, including (i) natural disasters, war and acts of terrorism, (ii) power losses, computer systems failure, Internet and telecommunications or data network failures, operator error, losses and corruption of data, and similar events and (iii) computer viruses, penetration by individuals seeking to disrupt operations or misappropriate information and other physical or electronic breaches of security. Any extended interruption in our technologies or systems could significantly curtail our ability to conduct our business and generate revenues.

The weakening or unavailability of our intellectual property rights could adversely impact our business.

Our trademarks, trade dress and other intellectual property rights are fundamental to our brands and our franchising business. We generate, maintain, utilize and enforce a substantial portfolio of trademarks, trade dress and other intellectual property rights. We use our intellectual property rights to protect the goodwill of our brand names, to promote our brand name recognition, to protect our proprietary technology and development activities, to enhance our competitiveness and to otherwise support our business goals and objectives. However, there can be no assurances that the steps we take to obtain, maintain and protect our intellectual property rights will be adequate. Our intellectual property rights, including our trademarks, may fail to provide us with significant competitive advantages, particularly in foreign jurisdictions that do not have or do not enforce strong intellectual property rights. In addition, our license agreement with Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc. for the use of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand is terminable by Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc. prior to the end of the license term if certain conditions occur.

Risks Relating to the Separation

We may be unable to achieve some or all of the benefits that we expect to achieve from our separation from Cendant.

We may not be able to achieve the full strategic and financial benefits that we expect will result from our separation from Cendant or such benefits may be delayed or may not occur at all. For example, there can be no assurance that analysts and investors will regard our corporate structure as clearer and simpler than the current Cendant corporate structure or place a greater value on our company as a stand-alone real estate company than on our businesses being a part of Cendant.

 

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We are being separated from Cendant, our parent company, and, therefore, we have no operating history as a separate publicly traded company.

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 primarily as a result of the following factors:

 

    Prior to our separation, our business was operated by Cendant as part of its broader corporate organization, rather than as an independent company. Cendant or one of its affiliates performed various corporate functions for us, including, but not limited to, tax administration, certain governance functions (including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and internal audit) and external reporting. Our historical and pro forma financial results reflect allocations of corporate expenses from Cendant for these and similar functions. These allocations are less than the comparable expenses we believe we would have incurred had we operated as a separate publicly traded company.

 

    Currently, our business is integrated with the other businesses of Cendant. Historically, we have shared economies of scope and scale in costs, employees, vendor relationships and customer relationships. While we expect to enter into short-term transition agreements that will govern certain commercial and other relationships among us, Cendant and the other separated companies after the separation, those temporary arrangements may not capture the benefits our businesses have enjoyed as a result of being integrated with the other businesses of Cendant. The loss of these benefits could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition following the completion of the separation.

 

    Generally, our working capital requirements and capital for our general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and capital expenditures, have historically been satisfied as part of the corporate-wide cash management policies of Cendant. Following the completion of the separation, Cendant will not be providing us with funds to finance our working capital or other cash requirements. Without the opportunity to obtain financing from Cendant, 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.

 

    Subsequent to the completion of our separation, the cost of capital for our business may be higher than Cendant’s cost of capital prior to our separation because Cendant’s credit ratings are higher than what ours are contemplated to be following the separation.

 

    Other significant changes may occur in our cost structure, management, financing and business operations as a result of our operating as a company separate from Cendant.

We may be unable to make, on a timely or cost-effective basis, the changes necessary to operate as an independent company, and we may experience increased costs after the separation or as a result of the separation.

Following the completion of our separation, Cendant and the other separated companies will be contractually obligated to provide to us only those services specified in the Transition Services Agreement and the other agreements we enter into with Cendant and the other separated companies in preparation for the separation. We may be unable to replace in a timely manner or on comparable terms the services that Cendant previously provided to us that are not specified in the Transition Services Agreement or the other agreements. Also, upon the expiration of the Transition Services Agreement or other agreements, many of the services that are covered in such agreements will be provided internally or by unaffiliated third parties, and we expect that in some instances, we will incur higher costs to obtain such services than we incurred under the terms of such agreements. In addition, if Cendant or the other separated companies do not continue to perform effectively the transition services and the other services that are called for under the Transition Services Agreement, we may not be able to operate our business effectively and our profitability may decline. Furthermore, after the expiration of the Transition Services Agreement and the other agreements, we may be unable to replace in a timely manner or on comparable terms the services specified in such agreements.

 

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Our agreements with Cendant and the other separated companies may not reflect terms that would have resulted from arm’s-length negotiations among unaffiliated third parties.

The agreements related to our separation from Cendant and the other separated companies, including the Separation and Distribution Agreement, Tax Sharing Agreement, Transition Services Agreement and the other agreements, were negotiated in the context of our separation from Cendant while we were still part of Cendant and, accordingly, may not reflect terms that would have resulted from arm’s-length negotiations among unaffiliated third parties. The terms of the agreements we negotiated in the context of our separation related to, among other things, allocation of assets, liabilities, rights, indemnifications and other obligations among Cendant, the other separated companies and us. See “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions.”

We will be responsible for certain of Cendant’s contingent and other corporate liabilities.

Under the Separation and Distribution Agreement, we, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company will each assume and be responsible for 50%, 30% and 20%, respectively, of certain of Cendant’s contingent and other corporate liabilities including associated costs and expenses. If any of the parties responsible for such liabilities were to default in its payment, when due, of any such assumed obligations related to any such contingent and other corporate liability, each non-defaulting party (including Avis Budget Group, Inc.) would be required to pay an equal portion of the amounts in default. Accordingly, we may, under certain circumstances, be obligated to pay amounts in excess of the 50% of the assumed obligations related to such contingent and other corporate liabilities including associated costs and expenses.

Many lawsuits are currently outstanding against Cendant, some of which relate to accounting irregularities arising from some of the CUC International, Inc. business units acquired when HFS Incorporated merged with CUC to form Cendant. While Cendant has settled many of the principal lawsuits relating to the accounting irregularities, these settlements do not encompass all litigation associated with the accounting irregularities. We do not believe that it is feasible to predict or determine the final outcome or resolution of these unresolved proceedings. Although we will share any costs and expenses arising out of this litigation with Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company, an adverse outcome from such unresolved proceedings or liabilities or other proceedings for which we have assumed partial liability under the Separation and Distribution Agreement could be material with respect to our earnings in any given reporting period.

For a more detailed description of the Separation and Distribution Agreement and treatment of certain historical Cendant contingent and other corporate liabilities, see “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—The Separation and Distribution Agreement.”

As part of the separation from Cendant, we will incur substantial debt with external lenders, which could subject us to various restrictions and decrease our profitability.

In connection with the separation, we expect to incur $2,175 million of debt through a $700 million term loan facility, an $800 million revolving credit facility of which we intend to draw $250 million on or prior to the distribution date, and a $1,225 million interim loan facility, all of the proceeds of which will be transferred to Cendant to be used solely by Cendant to repay its debt. After completion of the separation and distribution, we intend to replace the $1,225 million interim loan facility with permanent financing, primarily through the issuance of unsecured debt securities. We cannot assure you that we will be able to refinance the interim loan facility at terms that are reasonable to us. These financing arrangements will contain customary restrictions, covenants and events of default. The terms of these financing arrangements and any future indebtedness may impose various restrictions and covenants on us (such as tangible net worth requirements) that could limit our ability to respond to market conditions, provide for capital investment needs or take advantage of business opportunities. In addition, our financing costs may be higher than they were as part of Cendant. For a more detailed discussion of these borrowings and our liquidity following the separation and distribution, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness.”

 

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The ownership by our executive officers and some of our directors of shares of common stock, options, or other equity awards of Cendant or any of the other separated companies may create, or may create the appearance of, conflicts of interest.

Because of their current or former positions with Cendant, substantially all of our executive officers, including our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, our Vice Chairman and President and our Chief Financial Officer, and some of our non-employee director nominees, own Cendant common stock, options to purchase Cendant common stock or other equity awards. Following Cendant’s distribution of the other companies to its stockholders, these officers and non-employee directors will own shares of common stock, options to purchase shares of common stock, and other equity awards in these companies. The individual holdings of common stock, options to purchase common stock of Cendant and the other separated companies, or other equity awards, may be significant for some of these persons compared to these persons’ total assets. Even though our Board of Directors will consist of a majority of directors who are independent from Cendant, our company and the other separated companies, and our executive officers who are currently employees of Cendant will cease to be employees of Cendant upon the separation, other than our Chief Executive Officer, ownership by our directors and officers, after our separation, of common stock or options to purchase common stock of Cendant and the other separated companies, or any other equity awards, creates, or, may create the appearance of, conflicts of interest when these directors and officers are faced with decisions that could have different implications for Cendant or the other separated companies than they do for us.

After the separation, certain of our executive officers and directors may have actual or potential conflicts of interest because of their positions in Cendant and the other separated companies.

After the separation, Mr. Silverman, Cendant’s Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, will serve as our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Silverman will continue to serve as Cendant’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer until the time of the final distribution. Upon completion of the final distribution Mr. Silverman will resign from Cendant’s Board and from his position as Cendant’s Chief Executive Officer. In addition, five of our independent director nominees, Messrs. Edelman, Nederlander, Pittman and Robert F. Smith and Ms. Mills will continue as directors of Cendant until the time of the final distribution. Upon completion of the final distribution, these five directors will resign from Cendant’s Board. However, Mr. Edelman is expected to serve as a director of the Travel Distribution Services company following its separation from Cendant. These common directors could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest when our, Cendant’s and/or and the Travel Distribution Services company’s management and directors face decisions that could have different implications for us, Cendant and the Travel Distribution Services company. For example, potential conflicts of interest could arise in connection with the resolution of any dispute between us, Cendant and the Travel Distribution Services company regarding the terms of the agreements governing the separation and the relationship thereafter between us, Cendant and the Travel Distribution Services company. Potential conflicts of interest could also arise if we, Cendant and/or the Travel Distribution Services company, enter into any commercial arrangements with each other in the future. In addition, conflicts of interest may arise with regard to the allocation of Mr. Silverman’s, Mr. Edelman’s and the other directors’ time between us, Cendant and the Travel Distribution Services company.

If the distribution, together with certain related transactions, were to fail to qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code, then our stockholders and/or we and Cendant might be required to pay U.S. federal income taxes.

The distribution is conditioned upon Cendant’s receipt of an opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, special tax counsel, substantially to the effect that the distribution, together with certain related transactions, should qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code. The opinion of Skadden Arps will be based on, among other things, certain assumptions as well as on the accuracy of certain factual representations and statements that we and Cendant make to Skadden Arps. In rendering its opinion, Skadden Arps also will rely on certain covenants that we and Cendant enter into, including the adherence by Cendant and us to certain restrictions on our future actions. If any of the representations or statements that we or Cendant make are, or become, inaccurate or incomplete, or if we or

 

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Cendant breach any of our covenants, the distribution and such related transactions, might not qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code. You should note that Cendant does not intend to seek a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, as to the U.S. federal income tax treatment of the distribution and such related transactions. The opinion of Skadden Arps is not binding on the IRS or a court, and there can be no assurance that the IRS will not challenge the validity of the distribution and such related transactions, as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code or that any such challenge ultimately will not prevail.

If the distribution, together with certain related transactions, were to fail to qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code, then Cendant would recognize gain in an amount equal to the excess of (i) the fair market value of the Realogy common stock distributed to the Cendant stockholders over (ii) Cendant’s tax basis in such common stock. Under the terms of the Tax Sharing Agreement, in the event the distribution were to fail to qualify as a reorganization and (i) such failure was not the result of actions taken after the distribution by Cendant or us, we, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company would be responsible for 50%, 30% and 20%, respectively, of any taxes imposed on Cendant as a result thereof and (ii) such failure was the result of actions taken after the distribution by Cendant or us, the party responsible for such failure would be responsible for all taxes imposed on Cendant as a result thereof. In addition, each Cendant stockholder who received Realogy common stock in the distribution generally would be treated as having received a taxable distribution in an amount equal to the fair market value of the Realogy common stock received (including any fractional share sold on behalf of the stockholder), which would be taxable as a dividend to the extent of the stockholder’s ratable share of Cendant’s current and accumulated earnings and profits (as increased to reflect any current income including any gain recognized by Cendant on the taxable distribution). The balance, if any, of the distribution would be treated as a nontaxable return of capital to the extent of the Cendant stockholder’s tax basis in its Cendant stock, with any remaining amount being taxed as capital gain.

Realogy and Cendant might not be able to engage in desirable strategic transactions and equity issuances following the distribution.

Realogy’s and Cendant’s ability to engage in significant stock transactions could be limited or restricted after the distribution in order to preserve the tax-free nature of the distribution to Cendant. Even if the distribution, together with certain related transactions, otherwise qualifies as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code, it would be taxable to Cendant (but not to Cendant stockholders) under Section 355(e) of the Code if the distribution were deemed to be part of a plan (or series of related transactions) pursuant to which one or more persons acquired directly or indirectly stock representing a 50% or greater interest, by vote or value, in the stock of either Cendant or Realogy. Current U.S. federal income tax law creates a presumption that the distribution would be taxable to Cendant, but not to its stockholders, if either Realogy or Cendant were to engage in, or enter into an agreement to engage in, a transaction that would result in a 50% or greater change, by vote or value, in Realogy’s or Cendant’s stock ownership during the four-year period that begins two years before the date of the distribution, unless it is established that the transaction is not pursuant to a plan or series of transactions related to the distribution. Treasury regulations currently in effect generally provide that whether an acquisition transaction and a distribution are part of a plan is determined based on all of the facts and circumstances, including, but not limited to, specific factors described in the Treasury regulations. In addition, the Treasury regulations provide several “safe harbors” for acquisition transactions that are not considered to be part of a plan. These restrictions may prevent Realogy and Cendant from entering into transactions which might be advantageous to their respective stockholders, such as issuing equity securities to satisfy financing needs or acquiring businesses or assets with equity securities. Thus, even if the distribution, together with certain related transactions, were to qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code, if acquisitions of Cendant stock or Realogy stock after the distribution were to cause Section 355(e) of the Code to apply, Cendant would recognize taxable gain as described above, but the distribution would be tax free to each Cendant stockholder (except for cash received in lieu of a fractional share of Realogy common stock).

 

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Under the Tax Sharing Agreement, there are restrictions on Realogy’s ability to take actions that could cause the distribution to fail to qualify as a tax-free transaction, including, in certain cases, redeeming equity securities, selling or otherwise disposing of a substantial portion of its assets or acquiring businesses or assets with equity securities, in each case, for a period of 24 months from the day after the distribution. Moreover, the Tax Sharing Agreement generally provides that Realogy will be responsible for any taxes imposed on Cendant or Realogy as a result of the failure of the distribution, together with certain related transactions, to qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code if such failure is attributable to certain post-distribution actions taken by or in respect of Realogy (including its subsidiaries) or its stockholders, such as the acquisition of Realogy by a third party at a time and in a manner that would cause such failure. See “The Separation—Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution” and “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Agreement with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company—Tax Sharing Agreement.”

Risks Relating to Our Common Stock

There is no existing market for our common stock and a trading market that will provide you with adequate liquidity may not develop for our common stock. In addition, once our common stock begins trading, the market price of our shares may fluctuate widely.

There is currently no public market for our common stock. It is anticipated that on or prior to the record date for the distribution, trading of shares of our common stock will begin on a “when-issued” basis and will continue up to and including through the distribution date. However, there can be no assurance that an active trading market for our common stock will develop as a result of the distribution or be sustained in the future.

We cannot predict the prices at which our common stock may trade after the distribution. The market price of our common stock may fluctuate widely, depending upon many factors, some of which may be beyond our control, including:

 

  our business profile and market capitalization may not fit the investment objectives of Cendant stockholders, especially stockholders who hold Cendant stock based on Cendant’s inclusion in the S&P 500 Index, as our common stock may not be included in the S&P 500 Index, and as a result, Cendant stockholders may sell our shares after the distribution;

 

  a shift in our investor base;

 

  our quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in our industry;

 

  actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results due to the seasonality of our business and other factors related to our business;

 

  changes in accounting standards, policies, guidance, interpretations or principles;

 

  announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions or dispositions;

 

  the failure of securities analysts to cover our common stock after the distribution or changes in financial estimates by analysts;

 

  changes in earnings estimates by securities analysts or our ability to meet those estimates;

 

  the operating and stock price performance of other comparable companies;

 

  overall market fluctuations; and

 

  general economic conditions.

Stock markets in general have experienced volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the trading price of our common stock.

 

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Investors may be unable to accurately value our common stock.

Investors often value companies based on the stock prices and results of operations of other comparable companies. Currently, no public real estate company exists that is directly comparable to our size, scale and product offerings. As such, investors may find it difficult to accurately value our common stock, which may cause our common stock price to trade below our true value.

Substantial sales of common stock may occur in connection with this distribution, which could cause our stock price to decline.

The shares of our common stock that Cendant distributes to its stockholders generally may be sold immediately in the public market. Following the distribution, we believe (based on information as of January 26, 2006) that Barclays Global Investors, N.A. will beneficially own 8.88% of our common stock (see “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management”). Although we have no actual knowledge of any plan or intention on the part of any 5% or greater stockholder to sell our common stock following the separation, it is possible that some Cendant stockholders, including possibly some of our large stockholders, will sell our common stock received in the distribution for reasons such as that our business profile or market capitalization as an independent company does not fit their investment objectives. Moreover, index funds tied to the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index, the Russell 1000 Index and other indices hold shares of Cendant common stock. To the extent our common stock is not included in these indices after the distribution, certain of these index funds will likely be required to sell the shares of our common stock that they receive in the distribution. The sales of significant amounts of our common stock or the perception in the market that this will occur may result in the lowering of the market price of our common stock.

Provisions in our certificate of incorporation, by-laws, and of Delaware law may prevent or delay an acquisition of our company, which could decrease the trading price of our common stock.

Our certificate of incorporation, by-laws and Delaware law contain provisions that are intended to deter coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids by making such practices or bids unacceptably expensive to the raider and to encourage prospective acquirors to negotiate with our Board of Directors rather than to attempt a hostile takeover. These provisions include, among others:

 

  elimination of the right of our stockholders to act by written consent;

 

  rules regarding how stockholders may present proposals or nominate directors for election at stockholder meetings;

 

  the right of our Board to issue preferred stock without stockholder approval; and

 

  limitations on the right of stockholders to remove directors.

Delaware law also imposes some restrictions on mergers and other business combinations between us and any holder of 15% or more of our outstanding common stock. For more information, see “Description of Capital Stock—Anti-takeover Effects of Our Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws and Delaware Law.”

We believe these provisions protect our stockholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirors to negotiate with our Board and by providing our Board with more time to assess any acquisition proposal. These provisions are not intended to make our company immune from takeovers. However, these provisions apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some stockholders and could delay or prevent an acquisition that our Board determines is not in the best interests of our company and our stockholders.

We cannot assure you that we will pay any dividends.

There can be no assurance that we will have sufficient surplus under Delaware law to be able to pay any dividends. This may result from extraordinary cash expenses, actual expenses exceeding contemplated costs funding of capital expenditures, or increases in reserves. If we do not pay dividends, the price of our common stock that you receive in the distribution must appreciate for you to receive a gain on your investment in Realogy. This appreciation may not occur.

 

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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Forward-looking statements in our public filings or other public statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or other public statements. These forward-looking statements were based on various facts and were derived utilizing numerous important assumptions and other important factors, and changes in such facts, assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include the information concerning our future financial performance, business strategy, projected plans and objectives. Statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “projects,” “estimates,” “plans,” “may increase,” “may fluctuate,” and similar expression or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may” and “could” are generally forward looking in nature and not historical facts. You should understand that the following important factors could affect our future results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements:

 

  adverse developments in general business, economic and political conditions or any outbreak or escalation of hostilities on a national, regional or international basis;

 

  a decline in the number of home sales and/or prices;

 

  competition in our existing and future lines of business and the financial resources of competitors;

 

  our failure to comply with regulations and any changes in regulations;

 

  seasonal fluctuation in the residential real estate brokerage business;

 

  local and regional conditions in the areas where our franchisees and brokerage operations are located;

 

  our failure to complete future acquisitions or to realize anticipated benefits from completed acquisitions;

 

  actions by our franchisees that could harm our business;

 

  our inability to access capital and/or asset-backed markets on a favorable basis;

 

  the loss of any of our senior management;

 

  risks inherent in operating in foreign countries, including exposure to local economic conditions, government regulation, currency restrictions and other restraints, changes in tax laws, expropriation, political instability and diminished ability to legally enforce our contractual rights;

 

  our failure to provide fully integrated disaster recovery technology solutions in the event of a disaster or other business interruption;

 

  the final resolutions or outcomes with respect to Cendant’s contingent and other corporate liabilities and any related actions for indemnification made pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement;

 

  our inability to operate effectively as a stand-alone, publicly traded company; and

 

  the costs associated with becoming compliant with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the consequences of failing to implement effective internal controls over financial reporting as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 by the date that we must comply with that section of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Other factors not identified above, including the risk factors described in the “Risk Factors” section of this information statement, may also cause actual results to differ materially from those projected by our forward-looking statements. Most of these factors are difficult to anticipate and are generally beyond our control.

You should consider the areas of risk described above, as well as those set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” above, in connection with considering any forward-looking statements that may be made by us and our businesses generally. Except for our ongoing obligations to disclose material information under the federal securities laws, we undertake no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements, to report events or to report the occurrence of unanticipated events unless we are required to do so by law.

 

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THE SEPARATION

General

On October 23, 2005, the Board of Directors of Cendant preliminarily approved a plan to separate Cendant into four independent, publicly traded companies—one for each of Cendant’s Real Estate Services, Travel Distribution Services, Hospitality Services (including Timeshare Resorts) and Vehicle Rental businesses.

After preliminarily approving the separation plan, the Cendant Board established a separation committee of its Board to meet regularly to assist with and oversee the separation process. The members of the separation committee are Robert W. Pittman, Martin L. Edelman and Sheli Z. Rosenberg.

Since October 23, 2005, the Cendant Board and the separation committee met numerous times with and without members of Cendant’s senior management team to discuss the separation. In these meetings, the Cendant Board and the separation committee considered, among other things, the benefits to the businesses and to Cendant stockholders that are expected to result from the separation (see “—Reasons for the Separation”), the capital allocation strategies and dividend policies for the separated companies, the allocation of Cendant’s existing assets, liabilities and businesses among the separated companies, the terms of certain commercial relationships among the separated companies that will exist following the separation, the corporate governance arrangements that will be in place at each company following the separation, and the appropriate members of senior management at each company following the separation.

In furtherance of this plan, on                     , 2006, the Cendant Board approved the distribution of all of the shares of our common stock held by Cendant to holders of Cendant common stock. The distribution of the shares of our common stock is the first in the series of distributions to effectuate the plan to separate Cendant into four independent, publicly traded companies. In the distribution of the shares of our common stock, each holder of Cendant common stock will receive on                     , 2006, the distribution date, one share of our common stock for every four shares of Cendant common stock held at the close of business on the record date, as described below. Following the distribution, Cendant stockholders will own 100% of our common stock. The second distribution is expected to be of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation, the Cendant subsidiary that holds or will hold the assets and liabilities associated with Cendant’s Hospitality Services (including Timeshare Resorts) businesses and the third and final distribution is expected to be of the Cendant subsidiary that holds or will hold the assets and liabilities associated with Cendant’s Travel Distribution Services businesses.  Following the final distribution, it is expected that Cendant will change its name to Avis Budget Group, Inc.

You will not be required to make any payment, surrender or exchange your shares of Cendant common stock or take any other action to receive your shares of our common stock.

We cannot provide any assurances that either of the other distributions, which are the distributions of shares of common stock of the subsidiaries that hold or will hold all of the assets and liabilities associated with Cendant’s Hospitality Services (including Timeshare Resorts) and Travel Distribution Services businesses, will be completed, nor can we provide information at this time with respect to the terms on which the other distributions will be consummated. The other distributions are subject to certain conditions precedent, including final approval of the Cendant Board.

Furthermore, the distribution of our common stock as described in this information statement is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions.  For a more detailed description of these conditions, see “—Conditions to the Distribution.”

Formation of a Holding Company Prior to the Distribution

In connection with and prior to the distribution, Cendant organized Realogy Corporation as a Delaware corporation for the purpose of transferring to Realogy all of the assets and liabilities, including the entities holding substantially all of the assets and liabilities, of Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses.

 

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The Number of Shares You Will Receive

For every four shares of Cendant common stock that you owned at the close of business on                     , 2006, the record date, you will receive one share of our common stock on the distribution date. Cendant will not distribute any fractional shares of our common stock to its stockholders. Instead, the transfer agent will aggregate fractional shares into whole shares, sell the whole shares in the open market at prevailing market prices and distribute the aggregate net cash proceeds of the sales pro rata (based on the fractional share such holder would otherwise be entitled to receive) to each holder who otherwise would have been entitled to receive a fractional share in the distribution. 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.

When and How You Will Receive the Dividend

Cendant will distribute the shares of our common stock on                     , 2006, the distribution date. Mellon Investor Services, which currently serves as the transfer agent and registrar for Cendant’s common stock, will serve as transfer agent and registrar for our common stock and as distribution agent in connection with the distribution.

If you own Cendant common stock as of the close of business on the record date, the shares of Realogy common stock that you are entitled to receive in the distribution will be issued electronically, as of the distribution date, to you or to your bank or brokerage firm on your behalf by way of direct registration in book-entry form. Registration in book-entry form refers to a method of recording stock ownership when no physical share certificates are issued to stockholders, as is the case in this distribution. If you sell shares of Cendant common stock in the “regular-way” market through the distribution date, you will be selling your right to receive shares of Realogy common stock in the distribution.

Commencing on or shortly after the distribution date, if you hold physical stock certificates that represent your shares of Cendant common stock and you are the registered holder of the Cendant shares represented by those certificates, the distribution agent will mail to you an account statement that indicates the number of shares of our common stock that have been registered in book-entry form in your name. If you have any questions concerning the mechanics of having shares of our common stock registered in book-entry form, we encourage you to contact Mellon Investor Services at the address and telephone number set forth on page 15 of this information statement.

Most Cendant stockholders hold their shares of Cendant common stock through a bank or brokerage firm. In such cases, the bank or brokerage firm would be said to hold the stock in “street name” and ownership would be recorded on the bank or brokerage firm’s books. If you hold your Cendant common stock through a bank or brokerage firm, your bank or brokerage firm will credit your account for the shares of our common stock that you are entitled to receive in the distribution. If you have any questions concerning the mechanics of having shares of our common stock held in “street name,” we encourage you to contact your bank or brokerage firm.

Mellon Investor Services, as distribution agent, will not deliver any fractional shares of our common stock in connection with the distribution. Instead, Mellon Investor Services will aggregate all fractional shares and sell them on behalf of the holders who otherwise would be entitled to receive fractional shares. The aggregate net cash proceeds of these sales, which generally will be taxable for U.S. federal income tax purposes, will be distributed pro rata (based on the fractional share such holder would otherwise be entitled to receive) to each holder who otherwise would have been entitled to receive a fractional share in the distribution. See “Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution” below for an explanation of the tax consequences of the distribution. If you physically hold Cendant common stock certificates and are the registered holder, you will receive a check from the distribution agent in an amount equal to your pro rata share of the aggregate net cash proceeds of the sales. We estimate that it will take approximately two weeks from the distribution date for the distribution agent to complete the distributions of the aggregate net cash proceeds. If you hold your Cendant stock through a bank or brokerage firm, your bank or brokerage firm will receive on your behalf your pro rata share of the aggregate net cash proceeds of the sales and will electronically credit your account for your share of such proceeds.

 

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Results of the Separation

After our separation from Cendant, we will be a separate publicly traded company. Immediately following the distribution, we expect to have approximately 7,900 stockholders of record, based on the number of registered stockholders of Cendant common stock on March 29, 2006, and approximately 250 million shares of our common stock outstanding. The actual number of shares to be distributed will be determined on the record date and will reflect any exercise of Cendant options between the date the Cendant Board declares the dividend for the distribution and the record date for the distribution.

Before the separation, we will enter into a Separation and Distribution Agreement and several other agreements with Cendant’s other businesses to effect the separation and provide a framework for our relationships with Cendant’s other businesses after the separation. These agreements will govern the relationships among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company subsequent to the completion of the separation plan and provide for the allocation among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company of Cendant’s assets, liabilities and obligations (including employee benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to periods prior to our separation from Cendant. The Separation and Distribution Agreement, in particular, requires Realogy to assume certain of Cendant’s contingent and other corporate liabilities and establishes the amount of the debt that each separated company will initially incur that will be used solely to repay Cendant’s corporate debt.

For a more detailed description of these agreements, see “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

The distribution will not affect the number of outstanding shares of Cendant common stock or any rights of Cendant stockholders.

Incurrence of Debt

In connection with the separation, we intend to enter into a $700 million loan facility, an $800 million revolving credit facility and a $1,225 million interim loan facility. We expect to draw the entire amount of the term loan facility and the interim loan facility and $250 million of the revolving credit facility at or prior to the distribution. The $2,175 million of proceeds that we expect to draw from these facilities will be transferred to Cendant on the date of the distribution solely for the purpose of repaying certain indebtedness of Cendant. The remaining availability under the revolving credit facility will be used to fund our ongoing working capital and other needs. After completion of the separation and distribution, we intend to replace the interim loan facility with permanent financing, primarily through the issuance of unsecured debt securities. These financing arrangements will contain customary restrictions, covenants and events of default. For a more detailed discussion of these borrowings, see “Description of Material Indebtedness.”

Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution

The following is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the distribution. This summary is based on the Code, Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder and on judicial and administrative interpretations of the Code, all as in effect on the date of this information statement, and is subject to changes in these or other governing authorities, any of which may have a retroactive effect. This summary assumes that the distribution will be consummated in accordance with the Separation and Distribution Agreement and as described in this information statement. This summary is for general information only and does not purport to be a complete description of the consequences of the distribution nor does it address the effects of any state, local or foreign tax laws on the distribution. The tax treatment of a Cendant stockholder may vary depending upon that stockholder’s particular situation, and certain stockholders (including, but not limited to, insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations, financial institutions, broker-dealers, partners in partnerships that hold stock in Cendant, pass-through entities, traders in securities who elect to apply a mark-to-market method of accounting,

 

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stockholders who hold their Cendant stock as part of a “hedge,” “straddle,” “conversion,” or “constructive sale transaction,” individuals who received Cendant common stock upon the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation and non-U.S. stockholders) may be subject to special rules not discussed below. The summary assumes that the Cendant stockholders hold their Cendant common stock as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code.

Each stockholder is urged to consult its tax advisor as to the specific tax consequences of the distribution to that stockholder, including the effect of any state, local or foreign tax laws and of changes in applicable tax laws.

The distribution is conditioned upon Cendant’s receipt of an opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, substantially to the effect that the distribution, together with certain related transactions, should qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code. The opinion of Skadden Arps will be based on, among other things, certain assumptions as well as on the accuracy of certain factual representations and statements that we and Cendant make to Skadden Arps. In rendering its opinion, Skadden Arps also will rely on certain covenants that we and Cendant enter into, including the adherence by Cendant and us to certain restrictions on our future actions.

If any of the representations or statements that we or Cendant make are, or become, inaccurate or incomplete, or if we or Cendant breach any of our covenants, the distribution, together with certain related transactions, might not qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code. You should note that Cendant does not intend to seek a ruling from the IRS as to the U.S. federal income tax treatment of the distribution. The opinion of Skadden Arps is not binding on the IRS or a court, and there can be no assurance that the IRS will not challenge the validity of the distribution and related transactions as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code or that any such challenge ultimately will not prevail.

The Distribution

Assuming that the distribution, together with certain related transactions, qualifies as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code, the following describes certain U.S. federal income tax consequences to us, Cendant and Cendant stockholders:

 

    neither we nor Cendant will recognize any gain or loss upon the distribution of Realogy common stock and no amount will be includible in our income or that of Cendant as a result of the distribution and certain related transactions other than taxes arising out of internal restructurings undertaken in connection with the separation and with respect to any “excess loss account” or “intercompany transaction” required to be taken into account by Cendant under Treasury regulations relating to consolidated federal income tax returns;

 

    a Cendant stockholder will not recognize income, gain, or loss as a result of the receipt of our common stock pursuant to the distribution, except with respect to any cash received in lieu of fractional shares of our common stock;

 

    a Cendant stockholder’s tax basis in such stockholder’s Cendant common stock and in our common stock received in the distribution (including any fractional share interest in our common stock for which cash is received) will equal such stockholder’s tax basis in its Cendant common stock immediately before the distribution, allocated between the Cendant common stock and our common stock (including any fractional share interest of our common stock for which cash is received) in proportion to their relative fair market values on the date of the distribution;

 

    a Cendant stockholder’s holding period for our common stock received in the distribution (including any fractional share interest of our common stock for which cash is received) will include the holding period for that stockholder’s Cendant common stock; and

 

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    a Cendant stockholder who receives cash in lieu of a fractional share of our common stock in the distribution will be treated as having sold such fractional share for cash, and will generally recognize capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount of cash received and the Cendant stockholder’s adjusted tax basis in the fractional share. That gain or loss will be long-term capital gain or loss if the stockholder’s holding period for its Cendant common stock exceeds one year.

U.S. Treasury regulations require each Cendant stockholder who receives our common stock in the distribution to attach to the stockholder’s U.S. federal income tax return for the year in which the stock is received a detailed statement setting forth such data as may be appropriate to demonstrate the applicability of Section 355 of the Code to the distribution. Within a reasonable period of time after the distribution, Cendant will provide to our stockholders, either directly or through our stockholders’ banks or brokerage firms, the information necessary to comply with this requirement.

Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences if the Distribution Were Taxable

An opinion of counsel represents counsel’s best legal judgment and is not binding on the IRS or any court. If the IRS were to assert successfully that the distribution was taxable, the above consequences would not apply and both Cendant and holders of Cendant common stock who received shares of our common stock in the distribution could be subject to tax, as described below. In addition, future events that may or may not be within Cendant’s or our control, including extraordinary purchases of Cendant common stock or our common stock, could cause the distribution not to qualify as tax free to Cendant and/or holders of Cendant common stock. Depending on the circumstances, we may be required to indemnify Cendant for some or all of the taxes and losses resulting from the distribution and certain related transactions not qualifying as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code. See “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Agreement with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company—Tax Sharing Agreement.”

If the distribution were to fail to qualify as a reorganization, then:

 

    Cendant would recognize gain in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of Realogy common stock on the date of the distribution distributed to Cendant stockholders (including any fractional shares sold on behalf of the stockholder) over Cendant’s adjusted tax basis in our stock;

 

    each Cendant stockholder who received Realogy common stock in the distribution would be treated as having received a taxable distribution in an amount equal to the fair market value of such stock (including any fractional shares sold on behalf of the stockholder) on the distribution date. That distribution would be taxable to the stockholder as a dividend to the extent of Cendant’s current and accumulated earnings and profits. Any amount that exceeded Cendant’s earnings and profits would be treated first as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the Cendant stockholder’s tax basis in its Cendant common stock with any remaining amounts being taxed as capital gain;

 

    certain stockholders would be subject to additional special rules governing taxable distributions, such as those that relate to the dividends received deduction and extraordinary dividends; and

 

    a stockholder’s tax basis in Realogy common stock received generally would equal the fair market value of Realogy common stock on the distribution date, and the holding period for that stock would begin the day after the distribution date. The holding period for the stockholder’s Cendant common stock would not be affected by the fact that the distribution was taxable.

Even if the distribution, together with certain related transactions, otherwise qualifies as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code, it could be taxable to Cendant under Section 355(e) of the Code if one or more persons were to acquire directly or indirectly stock representing a 50% or greater interest by vote or value, in Cendant or us during the four-year period beginning on the date which is two years before the date of the distribution, as part of a plan or series of related transactions

 

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that includes the distribution. If such an acquisition of our stock or Cendant’s stock were to trigger the application of Section 355(e), Cendant would recognize taxable gain as described above, but the distribution would be tax free to each Cendant stockholder.

In connection with the distribution, we, Cendant and the other separated companies will enter into a Tax Sharing Agreement pursuant to which we and the other separated companies each will agree to be responsible for certain liabilities and obligations following the distribution. Our indemnification obligations will include a covenant to indemnify Cendant for any losses that it and its subsidiaries incur as a result of any action, misrepresentation or omission by us or one of our subsidiaries that causes the distribution of our common stock by Cendant to fail to qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code. We also will be responsible for 50% of any taxes resulting from the failure of the distribution, together with certain related transactions, to qualify as such a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which failure is not due to the actions, misrepresentations or omissions of us, any of the other separated companies or our respective subsidiaries. In addition, even if we were not contractually required to indemnify Cendant for tax liabilities if the distribution, together with certain related transactions, were to fail to qualify as such a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we nonetheless could be legally liable under applicable tax law for such liabilities if Cendant were to fail to pay them. See “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Agreement with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company—Tax Sharing Agreement” for a more detailed discussion of the Tax Sharing Agreement.

The foregoing is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the distribution under current law and is for general information only. The foregoing does not purport to address all U.S. federal income tax consequences or tax consequences that may arise under the tax laws of other jurisdictions or that may apply to particular categories of stockholders. Each Cendant stockholder should consult its tax advisor as to the particular tax consequences of the distribution to such stockholder, including the application of U.S. federal, state, local and foreign tax laws, and the effect of possible changes in tax laws that may affect the tax consequences described above.

Market for Common Stock

There is currently no public market for our common stock. A condition to the distribution is the listing on the NYSE of our common stock. We intend to apply to list our common stock on the NYSE under the symbol “H.”

Trading Between the Record Date and Distribution Date

Beginning on or shortly before the record date and continuing up to and including through the distribution date, there will be two markets in Cendant common stock: a “regular-way” market and an “ex-distribution” market. Shares of Cendant common stock that trade on the regular way market will trade with an entitlement to shares of our common stock distributed pursuant to the distribution. Shares that trade on the ex-distribution market will trade without an entitlement to shares of our common stock distributed pursuant to the distribution. Therefore, if you sell shares of Cendant common stock in the “regular-way” market through the distribution date, you will be selling your right to receive shares of Realogy common stock in the distribution. If you own shares of Cendant common stock at the close of business on the record date and sell those shares on the “ex-distribution” market, up to and including through the distribution date, you will still receive the shares of our common stock that you would be entitled to receive pursuant to your ownership of the shares of Cendant common stock.

Furthermore, beginning on or shortly before the record date and continuing up to and including through the distribution date, there will be a “when-issued” market in our 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 shares of our common stock that will be distributed to Cendant stockholders on the distribution date. If you owned shares of Cendant common stock at the close of business on the record date, you would be entitled to shares of our common stock distributed pursuant to the distribution. You

 

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may trade this entitlement to shares of our common stock, without the shares of Cendant common stock you own, on the “when-issued” market. On the first trading day following the distribution date, “when issued” trading with respect to our common stock will end and “regular-way” trading will begin.

Conditions to the Distribution

We expect that the distribution will be effective on                     , 2006, the distribution date, provided that, among other conditions described in this information statement, the following conditions shall have been satisfied or, if permissible under the Separation and Distribution Agreement, waived by Cendant:

 

  the SEC shall have declared effective our registration statement on Form 10, of which this information statement is a part, under the Exchange Act, and no stop order relating to the registration statement is in effect;

 

  all permits, registrations and consents required under the securities or blue sky laws of states or other political subdivisions of the United States or of other foreign jurisdictions in connection with the distribution shall have been received;

 

  Cendant shall have received a legal opinion of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP substantially to the effect that the distribution, together with certain related transactions, should qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code;

 

  our entry into various new debt facilities with a syndicate of financial institutions as described in “Description of Material Indebtedness;”

 

  the listing of our common stock on the NYSE shall have been approved, subject to official notice of issuance;

 

  the Cendant Board shall have received an opinion from Duff & Phelps LLC to the effect that we and Cendant will each be solvent and adequately capitalized immediately after the distribution and that Cendant has sufficient surplus under Delaware law to declare the dividend of Realogy common stock;

 

  the Cendant Board shall have received an opinion from Evercore Group L.L.C. to the effect that, as of the date of such opinion, the distribution is fair, from a financial point of view, to the stockholders of Cendant;

 

  any material government approvals and other consents necessary to consummate the distribution shall have been received;

 

  the securitization programs related to our relocation business shall have been amended to permit our separation from Cendant; and

 

  no order, injunction or decree issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or other legal restraint or prohibition preventing consummation of the distribution or any of the transactions related thereto, including the transfers of assets and liabilities contemplated by the Separation and Distribution Agreement, shall be in effect.

The fulfillment of the foregoing conditions does not create any obligations on Cendant’s part to effect the distribution, and the Cendant Board has reserved the right, in its sole discretion, to amend, modify or abandon the distribution and related transactions at any time prior to the distribution date. Cendant has the right not to complete the distribution if, at any time, the Cendant Board determines, in its sole discretion, that the distribution is not in the best interests of Cendant or its stockholders or that market conditions are such that it is not advisable to separate the Real Estate Services businesses from Cendant.

Reasons for the Separation

The Cendant Board regularly reviews the various businesses that Cendant conducts to ensure that Cendant’s resources are properly being put to use in a manner that is in the best interests of Cendant and its stockholders. Over the last several years, Cendant has achieved increased revenues and earnings. During that time, however, Cendant has found that any real or perceived negative issue at any one of its business units has usually obscured

 

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the performance of Cendant as a whole. To this end, the Cendant Board evaluated a number of strategic alternatives to increase value and concluded that a separation would be the most feasible and the most financially attractive approach. The Cendant Board believes that creating four companies each of which is focused on one industry is the best way to unlock the full value of Cendant’s businesses in both the short and long term. There will be one company for each of Cendant’s Real Estate Services, Hospitality Services (including Timeshare Resorts), Travel Distribution Services and Vehicle Rental businesses.

Cendant believes that the separation of its businesses provides each separated company, including us, with certain opportunities and benefits. The following are some of the opportunities and benefits that the Cendant Board considered in preliminarily approving the separation:

 

    Although there can be no assurance, Cendant believes that over time following the separation, the common stock of the separated companies should have a higher aggregate market value, on a fully distributed basis and assuming the same market conditions, than if Cendant were to remain under its current configuration. The Cendant Board believes that such value increase in the common stock should enhance the value of equity-based compensation for each separated company’s employees and should permit each separated company to effect future acquisitions with such common stock, in a manner that preserves capital with significantly less dilution of the existing stockholders’ interests than would occur by issuing pre-distribution Cendant common stock, in each case resulting in a real and substantial benefit for the companies. Further, the Cendant Board believes that the separation will allow each separated company to maintain a sharper focus on its core business and growth opportunities, which will allow each separated company to be better able to make the changes to its business necessary for it to respond to the industry in which it operates.

 

    Allowing the management of each separated company to design and implement corporate policies and strategies that are based primarily on the business characteristics of that company and to concentrate its financial resources wholly on its own operations.

 

    Each separated company will maintain a sharper focus on its core business and growth opportunities, which will allow each separated company to be better able to make the changes to its business necessary for each such company to respond to developments in the industry in which each company operates. In addition, after the separation, the businesses within each company will no longer need to compete internally for capital with businesses operating in other industries.

 

    Each separated company will have a capital structure designed to meet its needs. Our capital structure is expected to facilitate the acquisitions (including, possibly, acquisitions using Realogy common stock as currency), joint ventures, partnerships and internal expansion that are important for us to remain competitive in our industry. Cendant believes that our stock should be an attractive acquisition currency for the typical seller of a business to us. Cendant believes that this should provide Realogy with the ability to finance acquisitions with equity in a manner that preserves capital with significantly less dilution of its stockholders’ interests than would occur by issuing pre-distribution Cendant common stock.

 

    The separation will provide investors with four investment options that may be more attractive to investors than the investment option of one combined company. Separating Cendant into four publicly traded companies will provide investors with the opportunity to invest in each of the separated companies individually. The Cendant Board believes that certain investors may want to invest only in companies that are focused on only one industry and that the demand for the separated companies by such investors may increase the demand for each company’s shares relative to the demand for Cendant’s shares. The separation is intended to reduce the complexities surrounding investor understanding and give current investors in Cendant the ability to choose how to diversify their Cendant holdings.

 

   

The separation will permit the creation of equity securities, including options and restricted stock units, for each of the companies with a value that is expected to reflect more closely the efforts and

 

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performance of each company’s management. Such equity securities should enable each company to provide incentive compensation arrangements for its key employees that are directly related to the market performance of each company’s common stock, and Cendant believes such equity-based compensation arrangements should provide enhanced incentives for performance and improve the ability for each company to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel.

The Cendant Board expects to receive an opinion from Evercore Group L.L.C. to the effect that, as of the date of such opinion, the distribution is fair, from a financial point of view, to the stockholders of Cendant. In addition, the Cendant Board also expects to receive an opinion from Duff & Phelps, LLC to the effect that Realogy and Cendant will each be solvent and adequately capitalized immediately after the distribution and that Cendant has sufficient surplus under Delaware law to declare the dividend of Realogy common stock.

In view of the wide variety of factors considered in connection with the evaluation of the separation and the complexity of these matters, the Cendant Board did not find it useful to, and did not attempt to, quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative weights to the factors considered. The individual members of the Cendant Board likely may have given different weights to different factors.

Opinion of Evercore Group L.L.C.

Cendant expects Evercore to provide to the Cendant Board a written opinion with respect to the fairness, from a financial point of view, to holders of shares of Cendant common stock of the distribution of the shares of Realogy common stock to such holders. Evercore will provide the fairness opinion for the information and assistance of the Cendant Board in connection with the Board’s consideration of whether to declare the distribution. The fairness opinion will not constitute a recommendation to any Cendant stockholder as to how such holder should respond to the distribution and therefore will not constitute a recommendation as to whether such holder should hold or sell shares of Cendant common stock or shares of Realogy common stock. A copy of the fairness opinion that Evercore is expected to deliver to the Cendant Board will be attached to this information statement as Annex A.

For purposes of the fairness opinion and the analyses underlying the fairness opinion, Evercore will assume and rely upon, without assuming any responsibility for independent verification of, the accuracy and completeness of publicly available information and of the information supplied or otherwise made available to, discussed with or reviewed by Evercore. To enable Evercore to perform the analyses underlying the fairness opinion, members of Cendant’s management will provide Evercore with certain financial projections (including Cendant’s outlook with respect to the long-term growth prospects of Cendant’s businesses) relating to Cendant and Realogy. Evercore will assume that the financial projections have been reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best available estimates and good faith judgments of the future competitive, operating and regulatory environments and financial performances of Cendant and Realogy. Additionally, Evercore will rely upon the assessments of Cendant’s management with respect to the business, operational and strategic risks, incremental costs and incremental cost savings arising from the distribution.

Evercore will not make or assume any responsibility for making any independent valuation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities of Cendant or any of its subsidiaries, and Evercore will not be furnished with any such valuations or appraisals. In addition, Evercore will not evaluate the solvency or fair value of Cendant or any of its subsidiaries or of Realogy or any of its subsidiaries under any state or federal laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or similar matters. For the purposes of its analyses, Evercore will assume that the distribution, together with certain related transactions, will qualify as a reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 368(a)(1)(D) and 355 of the Code and, accordingly, that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes: (x) no income, gain or loss will be recognized by Cendant stockholders as a result of the receipt of Realogy common stock pursuant to the distribution, except with respect to any cash received in lieu of fractional shares of Realogy common stock and (y) no gain or loss will be recognized by Cendant or Realogy upon the distribution of Realogy common stock and no amount will be includible in the income of Realogy or Cendant as a result of the

 

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distribution and certain related transactions other than taxes arising out of internal restructuring transactions undertaken in connection with the separation and with respect to any “excess loss account” or “intercompany transaction” required to be taken into account by Cendant under Treasury regulations relating to consolidated federal income tax returns which will be assumed to be not in excess of the aggregate amounts estimated by the management of Cendant and provided to Evercore in connection with its analysis. Evercore will assume that all necessary governmental and regulatory and other approvals or consents (contractual or otherwise) for the distribution have been or will be timely obtained or made and that no restrictions will be imposed or costs incurred that will have an adverse effect on Cendant and its subsidiaries or on Realogy and its subsidiaries following the distribution. Evercore will further assume that the distribution will comply with all applicable U.S. federal and state laws and foreign laws, including, without limitation, laws relating to the payment of dividends, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, fraudulent conveyance, fraudulent transfer and other similar laws affecting the rights of creditors. Evercore is not a legal, regulatory, accounting or tax expert and will assume the accuracy and completeness of assessments by Cendant and its advisors with respect to legal, regulatory, accounting and tax matters.

Evercore was not authorized to solicit, and did not solicit, any proposals from any third parties for the acquisition of any of the assets or businesses of Cendant or any of its subsidiaries, and Evercore did not make any determination as to whether any such proposals could be obtained if solicited. Evercore did not consider and therefore Evercore’s fairness opinion will not address the relative merits of the distribution as compared to other business strategies that might be available to Cendant and the underlying business decision of Cendant to proceed with the distribution.

Evercore’s fairness opinion will not express any view as to the prices at which the shares of Cendant common stock or the shares of Realogy common stock will trade following the separation. The actual values of and prices at which the shares of Cendant common stock and the shares of Realogy common stock will trade following the separation will depend on a variety of factors including, without limitation, prevailing interest rates, dividend rates, market conditions, general economic conditions and other factors that generally influence the prices of securities. Evercore’s fairness opinion will not address whether the aggregate market value of the outstanding shares of Cendant common stock and the outstanding shares of Realogy common stock following the separation will exceed the aggregate market value of the outstanding shares of Cendant common stock at any time prior to the separation or the aggregate market value of the outstanding shares of Cendant common stock in the absence of the separation. The shares of Cendant common stock and the shares of Realogy common stock may, after the distribution, initially trade at prices below those at which they would trade on a fully distributed basis.

Evercore’s fairness opinion will necessarily be based on economic, market and other conditions as in effect on, and the information made available to Evercore as of, the date of delivery of the fairness opinion. It should be understood that subsequent developments may affect Evercore’s fairness opinion and that Evercore will not have any obligation to update, revise or reaffirm its fairness opinion.

Cendant engaged Evercore to act as a financial advisor to the Cendant Board in connection with the distribution of shares of Realogy common stock to holders of Cendant common stock based on Evercore’s qualifications, experience and reputation and Evercore’s knowledge of Cendant’s businesses. Evercore is an internationally recognized investment banking firm and is regularly engaged in the valuation of businesses in connection with mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, competitive biddings, private placements and valuations for corporate and other purposes.

The Evercore engagement letter with Cendant provides that, for its services, Evercore is entitled to receive from Cendant a fee of $15 million payable in three equal installments, each of which is payable upon the consummation of a distribution contemplated by the separation plan. The engagement letter also provides that Evercore will be reimbursed for its reasonable expenses and be indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of Evercore’s engagement.

 

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Opinion of Duff & Phelps, LLC

Duff & Phelps, LLC was engaged by Cendant to provide to the Cendant Board a written opinion as to the sufficiency of the surplus of Cendant under Delaware law to make the distribution of Realogy common stock and as to the solvency and capitalization of each of Cendant and Realogy after giving effect to the distribution. On October 23, 2005, Duff & Phelps made a presentation to the Cendant Board summarizing its preliminary conclusions, based on information available to Duff & Phelps as of October 23, 2005, with respect to the solvency and capitalization of each of Cendant and Realogy and with respect to the surplus of Cendant. Cendant expects that Duff & Phelps will deliver to the Cendant Board a written opinion that provides final conclusions that are consistent with the preliminary conclusions presented to the Cendant Board on October 23, 2005. Duff & Phelps has informed Cendant and the Cendant Board that Duff & Phelps intends to continue to monitor both market conditions and the operating performance and financial condition of each of Cendant and Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses, as such market conditions, operating performance and financial condition relate to such written opinion. In its October 23, 2005 presentation to the Cendant Board, Duff & Phelps preliminarily concluded that:

 

(1) Immediately prior to the distribution, Cendant would have adequate surplus under Delaware General Corporation Law to effect the distribution, and

 

(2) After giving effect to the distribution, Cendant and Realogy would be solvent and adequately capitalized.

Duff & Phelps noted that its preliminary conclusions were based on discussions with management of Cendant and Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses and on market conditions and the operating performance and financial condition of each of Cendant and Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses as such market conditions, operating performance and financial condition existed as of October 23, 2005. Duff & Phelps also noted that it had sufficient time, access to information and access to management to prepare its preliminary conclusions.

Cendant expects that Duff & Phelps will provide final conclusions that will confirm Duff & Phelps’ preliminary conclusions and will deliver to Cendant a written opinion as to the sufficiency of the surplus of Cendant under Delaware law to make the distribution of Realogy common stock and as to the solvency and capitalization of each of Cendant and Realogy after giving effect to the distribution. A the opinion that Duff & Phelps is expected to deliver to the Cendant Board will be attached to this information statement as Annex B. The opinion sets forth, among other things, the assumptions made, procedures followed, matters considered and limitations on the review undertaken by Duff & Phelps in connection with the opinion. You should read the opinion carefully and in its entirety. Any such opinion provided by Duff & Phelps will be provided for the information and assistance of the Cendant Board. Duff & Phelps has indicated that the Board of Directors of Realogy may rely on any such opinion provided to Cendant. Duff & Phelps’ final conclusions as set forth in any such final opinion will be dependent upon the market conditions, operating performance and financial condition of Cendant and Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses as of the time such written opinion is provided. Accordingly, changes in such market conditions, operating performance and financial condition that may occur between October 23, 2005 and the date such written opinion is provided could impact Duff & Phelps’ ability to provide final conclusions that are consistent with the preliminary conclusions presented to the Cendant Board on October 23, 2005.

In preparing its preliminary and final conclusions, Duff & Phelps undertook or will undertake, as applicable, a number of investigations and analyses that it deemed or will deem, as applicable, appropriate, including meetings with senior management regarding the history, current operations, future outlook and “contingent and other liabilities” of Cendant and Realogy; analyses of financial, market and transaction information on public companies deemed or to be deemed, as applicable, comparable to each of Cendant and Realogy and on transactions deemed or to be deemed, as applicable, comparable to the separation of Realogy from Cendant; and a review of industry information and trends germane to each of Cendant’s and Realogy’s businesses. In addition, in preparing its preliminary and final conclusions, Duff & Phelps’ reviewed or will review, as applicable,

 

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Cendant’s annual reports, filings with the SEC and audited and unaudited historical financial statements; certain internally prepared financial reports, including financial projections for Cendant and Realogy; and presentations delivered to the Cendant Board by certain of Cendant’s other financial advisors.

Duff & Phelps relied and will rely upon, as applicable, the accuracy and completeness of all of the financial, accounting, tax and other information discussed or to be discussed, as applicable, with Duff & Phelps or reviewed or to be reviewed, as applicable, by Duff & Phelps and assumed and will assume, as applicable, such accuracy and completeness for purposes of expressing its preliminary conclusions on October 23, 2005 and subsequently rendering any written final opinion. In that regard, Duff &Phelps assumed and will assume, as applicable, with Cendant’s consent, that certain internal analyses and forecasts for Cendant and Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses prepared by management of Cendant and Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses have been prepared or will be prepared, as applicable, on a basis reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments of Cendant and Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses. In addition, Duff & Phelps did not and will not make an independent evaluation or appraisal of the assets and liabilities of Cendant and Cendant’s Real Estate Services businesses and Duff & Phelps was not and is not expected to be furnished with any such evaluation or appraisal.

Cendant specifically requested that Duff & Phelps preliminarily and finally determine whether, as of the date of the distribution and after giving effect to the distribution:

 

(1) The “fair saleable value” of the assets of each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable, exceeds the sum of its respective liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities;

 

(2) The “present fair saleable value” of the assets of each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable, exceeds the amount that will be required to pay its respective probable liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, on its respective existing debts as such debts become absolute and matured;

 

(3) Each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable, will not have an unreasonably small amount of capital for the respective businesses in which it is engaged or is proposed to be engaged following the distribution, based on discussions with management of Cendant or Realogy, as applicable;

 

(4) Each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable, will be able to pay its respective liabilities, including all “contingent and other liabilities”, as they become absolute and matured;

 

(5) The fair saleable value of Cendant’s assets exceeds the value of its liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, by an amount that is greater than its stated capital amount (pursuant to Section 154 of the Delaware General Corporation Law); and

 

(6) The sum of the assets of each of Cendant and Realogy, as appropriate, at fair valuation is greater than all its respective debts at fair valuation.

For the purposes of preparing its preliminary conclusions and final conclusions, Duff & Phelps defined the following terms and phrases as follows:

 

    “Fair saleable value” means the aggregate amount of net consideration (as of the date of the preliminary conclusions or the Duff & Phelps’ opinion, as applicable), after giving effect to reasonable costs of sale or taxes, where the probable amount of any such taxes is disclosed to Duff & Phelps by Cendant, that could be expected to be realized from an interested purchaser by a seller, in an arm’s-length transaction under present conditions in a current market for the sale of assets of a comparable business enterprise, where both parties are aware of all relevant facts and neither party is under any compulsion to act, where such seller is interested in disposing of the entire operation as a going concern, presuming the business will be continued in its present form and character, and with reasonable promptness, not to exceed one year.

 

   

“Present fair saleable value” means the aggregate amount of net consideration (as of the date of the preliminary conclusions or the Duff & Phelps’ opinion, as applicable) after giving effect to reasonable

 

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costs of sale or taxes, where probable amount of any such taxes is disclosed to Duff & Phelps by Cendant, that could be expected to be realized from an interested purchaser by a seller, in an arm’s-length transaction under present conditions in a current market for the sale of assets of a comparable business enterprise, where both parties are aware of all relevant facts and neither party is under any compulsion to act, where such seller is interested in disposing of the entire operation as a going concern, presuming the business will be continued in its present form and character, and with reasonable promptness, not to exceed six months.

 

    “Liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities” has the meanings that are generally determined in accordance with applicable federal laws governing determinations of the insolvency of debtors.

 

    “Contingent and other liabilities” means contingent and other liabilities as either publicly disclosed, set forth in written materials delivered to Duff & Phelps by Cendant or Realogy or identified to Duff & Phelps by officers or representatives of Cendant or Realogy.

 

    “Not have an unreasonably small amount of capital for their respective businesses in which they are engaged or proposed to be engaged” and “able to pay their respective liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, as they mature” means that Cendant or Realogy, as applicable, will be able to generate enough cash from operations, planned asset dispositions, refinancing or a combination thereof to meet its respective obligations (including all contingent and other liabilities) as they become due.

For the purposes of preparing its preliminary and final conclusions, Duff & Phelps conducted or will conduct, as applicable, “balance sheet tests” to determine whether, as of the date of the distribution and after giving effect to the distribution, (i) the fair saleable value and the present fair saleable value, as applicable, of the assets of each of Cendant and Realogy would exceed, as applicable, the sum of the respective liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, or the amount that would be required to pay its respective probable liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, on the respective existing debt of each of Cendant and Realogy as such liabilities become absolute and matured; (ii) the sum of the assets of each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable, at fair valuation would be greater than the respective expected debts of each of Cendant and Realogy at fair valuation; and (iii) the fair saleable value of the assets of Cendant would exceed the value of its expected liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, by an amount that is greater than its stated capital amount pursuant to Section 154 of the Delaware General Corporation Law. Duff & Phelps has tailored or will tailor, as applicable, the balance sheet tests so as to enable Duff & Phelps to reach a conclusion with respect to each of the determinations that Duff & Phelps has been requested to make. As the first part of a balance sheet test, Duff & Phelps used and will use, as applicable, various methodologies, including a discounted cash flow analysis and an analysis of the trading multiples for comparable, public companies and companies involved in merger and acquisition transactions, to estimate the enterprise values of each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable. As the second part of a balance sheet test, Duff & Phelps compared or will compare, as applicable, the enterprise values of each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable, to the respective liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, expected to be allocated to each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable. As part of its preliminary conclusions, Duff & Phelps determined that, based on information available to it on October 23, 2005, as of the expected date of the distribution and after giving effect to the distribution on the terms described to Duff & Phelps, that each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable, would pass the balance sheet tests.

For the purposes of preparing its preliminary and final conclusions, Duff & Phelps conducted or will conduct, as applicable, “capital adequacy tests” to determine whether, after giving effect to the distribution, each of Cendant and Realogy, as applicable, would not have an unreasonably small amount of capital for the respective businesses in which it is engaged or is proposed to be engaged following the consummation of the distribution, based on discussions with management of Cendant or Realogy, as applicable. The capital adequacy test involves the analysis of detailed cash flow projections for each of Cendant and Realogy and an analysis of the respective debt capacities and abilities to access the capital markets of each of Cendant and Realogy to estimate current and projected sources of capital to operate its respective businesses and an analysis of current

 

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and projected capital needs of each of Cendant and Realogy. As part of the capital adequacy test, Duff & Phelps compared or will compare, as applicable, the ability of each of Cendant and Realogy to satisfy its respective current and projected, as applicable, capital needs from its respective current and projected, as applicable, capital sources. Duff & Phelps also compared or will compare, as applicable, the respective current and projected, as applicable, capital needs of each of Cendant and Realogy to the capital needs of similar publicly traded companies.

For the purposes of preparing its preliminary and final conclusions, Duff & Phelps conducted or will conduct, as applicable, “cash flow tests” to determine whether, after giving effect to the distribution, each of Cendant and Realogy would be able to pay its respective liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, as they become absolute and matured. As part of the cash flow tests, Duff & Phelps analyzed or will analyze, as applicable, detailed cash flow projections of the payment of liabilities, including all contingent and other liabilities, by each of Cendant and Realogy and analyzed or will analyze, as applicable, the ability of each of Cendant and Realogy to produce free cash flow, sell assets and access the capital markets to meet its respective liabilities. In addition, Duff & Phelps analyzed or will analyze, as applicable, various cash flow coverage ratios based on the projections.

As part of both the cash flow and capital adequacy tests, Duff & Phelps conducted or will conduct, as applicable, sensitivity analyses using financial assumptions that represent reasonable downside scenarios versus the base case financial assumptions that Duff & Phelps analyzed or will analyze, as applicable. Duff & Phelps compared and will compare, as applicable, the assumptions under these sensitivity analyses to company-specific or industry performance metrics under historical industry “shocks” or economic downturns. Based on these analyses, Duff & Phelps assessed or will assess, as applicable, the ability of each of Cendant and Realogy to weather a future industry shock or economic downturn. As part of its preliminary conclusions, Duff & Phelps concluded that, based on information available to Duff & Phelps on October 23, 2005, it is highly likely each of Cendant and Realogy could weather a disruption or downturn in its respective businesses. Cendant expects that at the time Duff & Phelps is expected to deliver the written opinion Duff & Phelps will be able to come to the same conclusion.

As part of its preliminary conclusions, Duff & Phelps determined that, based on information available to it on October 23, 2005, after giving effect to the distribution on the terms described to Duff & Phelps, that each of Cendant and Realogy would pass the capital adequacy and cash flow tests.

The preparation of an opinion of the type described above is a complex process and is not necessarily susceptible to a summary description. Selecting portions of the summary set forth above, without considering the summary as a whole, could create an incomplete view of the processes underlying Duff & Phelps’ opinion. In addition, analyses underlying opinions of the type described above are based upon forecasts of future results and therefore are not necessarily indicative of actual future results or financial condition. Because such analyses, which are based upon numerous factors or events beyond the control of the parties or their respective advisors, are inherently subject to uncertainty, none of Cendant, Realogy or Duff & Phelps or any other person assumes responsibility if future results or financial condition are different from those forecast.

Cendant selected Duff & Phelps to advise the Cendant Board on the above-described matters because Duff & Phelps is a nationally recognized, independent financial advisory firm that has substantial experience in providing fairness and solvency opinions in connection with transactions similar to the proposed distribution.

Duff & Phelps has provided certain financial advisory services to Cendant and its affiliates from time to time in connection with certain financial reporting requirements for which services Duff & Phelps has received compensation. Duff & Phelps also may provide certain services to Cendant, Realogy and their respective affiliates in the future for which services Duff & Phelps expects to receive compensation.

The Duff & Phelps engagement letter with Cendant provides that, for its services, Duff & Phelps is entitled to receive from Cendant a fee of $1.2 million due and payable as follows: $200,000 upon execution of the

 

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engagement letter, $400,000 on October 31, 2005 and $600,000 upon notice that Duff & Phelps is prepared to deliver its opinion. The engagement letter also provides that Duff & Phelps be reimbursed for its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses and be indemnified against various liabilities.

Reason for Furnishing this Information Statement

This information statement is being furnished solely to provide information to Cendant stockholders who are entitled to receive shares of Realogy common stock in the distribution. The information statement is not, and is not to be construed as an inducement or encouragement to buy, hold or sell any of our securities. We believe that the information in this information statement is accurate as of the date set forth on the cover. Changes may occur after that date and neither Cendant nor we undertake any obligation to update such information except in the normal course of our respective public disclosure obligations.

 

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DIVIDEND POLICY

The declaration and payment of future dividends to holders of our common stock will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend upon many factors, including our financial condition, earnings, capital requirements of our businesses, covenants associated with certain debt obligations, legal requirements, regulatory constraints, industry practice and other factors that the Board of Directors deems relevant. There can be no assurance that we will continue to pay any dividend once we commence the payment of dividends.

 

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CAPITALIZATION

The following table, which should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the combined financial statements and accompanying notes included elsewhere herein, sets forth our cash and cash equivalents, secured assets and combined capitalization as of December 31, 2005 on an historical basis and on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the following planned transactions:

 

    the formation of Realogy Corporation and a contribution of all the assets and liabilities, including the entities holding all of the assets and liabilities of Cendant’s real estate services businesses,

 

    the planned distribution of our common stock to Cendant stockholders by Cendant (assuming a four to one distribution ratio) and the related transfer (and resultant tax impact) of certain corporate assets and liabilities (for which we are expected to assume approximately 50%) to us from Cendant (including those relating to unresolved tax and legal matters, which may not be resolved for several years),

 

    $700 million of planned borrowings under a new term loan facility,

 

    $1,225 million of planned borrowings under a new interim loan facility,

 

    $250 million of planned borrowings under a new $800 million revolving credit facility,

 

    the funding of $14 million of anticipated fees and costs associated with the above planned borrowings,

 

    the expected transfer of $2,175 million to Cendant, representing the proceeds received in connection with the above planned borrowings, and

 

    the elimination of intercompany balances approximating $440 million due to Cendant.

The pro forma adjustments are based upon available information and assumptions that we believe are reasonable; however, such adjustments are subject to change based upon the finalization of the terms of the separation and the underlying separation agreements. The pro forma adjustments do not reflect estimates for any contingent assets that we may be entitled to receive upon positive resolution of certain unresolved matters.

 

       December 31, 2005
       Historical    Pro
Forma
     (in millions)

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 36    $ 22
             

Secured assets (*)

   $ 856    $ 856
             

Secured obligations

   $ 757    $ 757
             

Unsecured debt:

     

Revolving credit facility

          250

Term loan

          700

Interim loan facility

          1,225
             
          2,175
             

Invested equity

     3,567      1,346
             

Total capitalization

   $ 4,324    $ 4,278
             

(*) Represents the portion of relocation receivables and advances, relocation properties held for sale and other related assets that collateralize our secured obligations.

 

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SELECTED HISTORICAL COMBINED FINANCIAL DATA

The following table presents our selected historical combined financial data and operating statistics. The combined statement of income data for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2005 and the combined balance sheet data as of December 31, 2005 and 2004 have been derived from our audited combined financial statements included elsewhere herein. The combined statement of income data for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2001 and the combined balance sheet data as of December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 are derived from the unaudited combined financial statements not included elsewhere herein. The unaudited combined financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as the audited combined financial statements and, in the opinion of our management, include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the information set forth herein.

The selected historical combined financial data and operating statistics presented below should be read in conjunction with our combined financial statements and accompanying notes and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included elsewhere herein. Our combined financial information may not be indicative of our future performance and does not necessarily reflect what our financial position and results of operations would have been had we operated as a separate, stand-alone entity during the periods presented, including changes that will occur in our operations and capitalization as a result of the separation and distribution from Cendant. Refer to “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements” for a further description of the anticipated changes.

 

       As of or For the Year Ended December 31,  
     2005     2004     2003     2002     2001  
     (In millions, except operating statistics)  

Statement of Income Data:

          

Net revenue

   $ 7,139     $ 6,549     $ 5,532     $ 4,117     $ 1,102  

Total expenses

     6,101       5,548       4,672       3,574       669  
                                        

Income before income taxes

     1,038       1,001       860       543       433  

Provision for income taxes

     408       379       285       186       143  

Minority interest, net of tax

     3       4       6       9       15  
                                        

Net income

   $ 627     $ 618     $ 569     $ 348     $ 275  
                                        

Balance Sheet Data:

          

Secured assets (a)

   $ 856     $ 497     $ 485     $ 101     $  

Total assets

     5,439       5,015       4,769       4,051       3,166  

Secured obligations

     757       400       400       80        

Mandatorily redeemable preferred interest

                       375       375  

Invested equity

     3,567       3,552       2,973       2,405       1,520  

Operating Statistics:

          

Real Estate Franchise Services

          

Closed homesale sides—franchisees (b), (c)

     1,848,000       1,814,165       1,686,434       1,571,535       1,494,659  

Closed homesale sides—NRT pre-acquisition (b), (d)

           111,363       357,492  

Average homesale price (e), (f)

   $ 224,486     $ 197,547     $ 175,347     $ 169,727     $ 176,441  

Average homesale brokerage commission rate (e), (g)

     2.51 %     2.56 %     2.62 %     2.65 %     2.66 %

Net effective royalty rate (e), (h)

     4.69 %     4.69 %     4.77 %     5.04 %     5.26 %

Royalty per side (i)

   $ 271     $ 247     $ 228     $ 216     $ 204  

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services (j)

          

Closed homesale sides (b)

     468,248       488,658       476,627       347,896        

Average homesale price (f)

   $ 470,538     $ 407,757     $ 341,050     $ 314,704        

Average homesale brokerage commission rate (g)

     2.49 %     2.53 %     2.58 %     2.63 %      

Gross commission income per side (k)

   $ 12,100     $ 10,635     $ 9,036     $ 8,535        

Relocation Services

          

Initiations (l)

     121,717       115,516       111,184       112,140       139,780  

Referrals (m)

     91,787       89,416       82,942       83,317       86,644  

 

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       As of or For the Year Ended December 31,
     2005    2004    2003    2002    2001
     (In millions, except operating statistics)

Title and Settlement Services (n)

              

Purchase title and closing units (o)

     148,316      144,699      143,827      101,252   

Refinance title and closing units (p)

     51,903      55,909      117,674      60,450   

Average price per closing unit (q)

   $ 1,384    $ 1,262    $ 1,033    $ 1,096   

(a) Represents the portion of relocation receivables and advances, relocation properties held for sale and other related assets that collateralize our secured obligations. Refer to Note 9 to our Combined Financial Statements for further information.
(b) A closed homesale side represents either the “buy” side or the “sell” side of a homesale transaction.
(c) These amounts include only those relating to third-party franchisees and do not include amounts relating to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment with the exception of amounts relating to the period January 1, 2002 through April 16, 2002 and for the entire fiscal year of 2001, representing periods prior to our acquisition of NRT on April 17, 2002.
(d) These amounts include only those relating to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment for the periods prior to our acquisition of NRT on April 17, 2002.
(e) Amounts for the Real Estate Franchise Services segment include only those amounts related to third-party franchisees and do not include amounts related to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment with the exception of amounts relating to the period January 1, 2002 through April 16, 2002 and for the entire fiscal year of 2001, representing periods prior to our acquisition of NRT on April 17, 2002.
(f) Represents the average selling price of closed homesale transactions.
(g) Represents the average commission rate earned on either the “buy” side or “sell” side of a homesale transaction. Although our average homesale brokerage commission rate has moderated, the resultant impact has been offset by higher home sale prices and an increase in homesale volume.
(h) Represents the average percentage of our franchisees’ commission revenues (excluding NRT) paid to the Real Estate Franchise Services segment as a royalty. Our net effective royalty rate continued to decline due to the fact that our larger franchisees earn greater volume incentives, which are provided in proportion to the gross commission income earned by the franchisee.
(i) Represents net domestic royalties earned from our franchisees (excluding NRT) divided by the total number of our franchisees’ closed homesale sides.
(j) NRT was acquired on April 17, 2002. Its results of operations have been included from the acquisition date forward. Our real estate brokerage business has a significant concentration of offices and transactions in geographic regions where home prices are at the higher end of the U.S. real estate market, particularly the east and west coasts. The real estate franchise business has franchised offices that are more widely dispersed across the United States than our real estate brokerage operations. Accordingly, operating results and homesale statistics may differ between our brokerage and franchise businesses based upon geographic presence and the corresponding homesale activity in each geographic region.
(k) Represents gross commission income divided by closed homesale sides.
(l) Represents the total number of transferees served by the relocation services business.
(m) Represents the number of referrals from which we received revenue from real estate brokers.
(n) This business was acquired on April 17, 2002. Its results of operations have been included from the acquisition date forward.
(o) Represents the number of title and closing units processed as a result of a home purchases.
(p) Represents the number of title and closing units processed as a result of homeowners refinancing their home loans.
(q) Represents the average fee we earn on purchase title and refinancing title units.

In presenting the financial data above in conformity with general accepted accounting principles, we are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported. See “Critical Accounting Policies” included elsewhere herein for a detailed discussion of the accounting policies that we believe require subjective and complex judgments that could potentially affect reported results.

Between 2001 and 2005, we completed a number of acquisitions, the results of operations and financial position of which have been included from their acquisition dates forward. See Note 3 to our Combined Financial Statements for a discussion of the 2005, 2004 and 2003 acquisitions. In 2002, we acquired NRT for $230 million, which resulted in approximately $1.6 billion of goodwill, and 19 other residential real estate brokerage operations for $377 million, including Arvida Realty Services and The DeWolfe Companies, which collectively resulted in $288 million of goodwill. NRT generated net revenue of approximately $3.1 billion and $893 million and net loss of $53 million and $55 million during 2001 and through the date we acquired the business in 2002, respectively.

On an historical basis, we incurred amortization expense related to our acquired pendings and listings intangible assets of $23 million, $16 million, $17 million and $197 million in 2005, 2004, 2003 and 2002, respectively. We did not incur any such expense in 2001.

 

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Additionally, during 2002, we adopted the non-amortization provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” Accordingly, our results of operations for 2001 include $24 million of amortization expense related to goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, while our results of operations for 2005, 2004, 2003 and 2002 do not reflect such amortization.

We incurred restructuring and other unusual charges of $124 million in 2001, which primarily consisted of (i) $95 million related to the funding of an irrevocable contribution to an independent technology trust responsible for providing technology initiatives for the benefit of our current and future real estate franchisees and (ii) $27 million related to various strategic initiatives generally aimed at improving the overall level of organizational efficiency, consolidating and rationalizing existing processes, and reducing cost structures in our real estate franchising and relocation services businesses.

 

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UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2005 and the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Income for the year ended December 31, 2005 have been derived from our historical combined financial statements and adjusted to give effect to the following transactions:

 

    the formation of Realogy Corporation and a contribution of all the assets and liabilities, including the entities holding all of the assets and liabilities of Cendant’s real estate services businesses,

 

    the planned distribution of our common stock to Cendant stockholders by Cendant (assuming a four to one distribution ratio) and the related transfer (and resultant tax impact) of certain corporate assets and liabilities (for which we are expected to assume approximately 50%) to us from Cendant (including those relating to unresolved tax and legal matters, which may not be resolved for several years),

 

    $700 million of planned borrowings under a term loan facility we expect to enter into prior to our separation from Cendant,

 

    $1,225 million of planned borrowings under a new interim loan facility we expect to enter into prior to our separation from Cendant,

 

    $250 million of planned borrowings under an $800 million revolving credit facility we expect to enter into prior to our separation from Cendant,

 

    the funding of $14 million of estimated financing costs expected to be incurred in connection with the above planned borrowings,

 

    estimated incremental costs associated with operating as a separate public company,

 

    estimated incremental interest expense associated with the planned borrowings, which is calculated using current rates in effect since such borrowings are not yet committed, and

 

    the expected transfer of $2,175 million to Cendant, representing the proceeds received in connection with the above planned borrowings.

The section entitled “The Separation”, included elsewhere herein, provides a more detailed description of the separation of Realogy from Cendant.

The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet assumes that the distribution and related transactions occurred on December 31, 2005 and the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Income assumes that the distribution and related transactions occurred on January 1, 2005.

Management believes that the assumptions used to derive the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements are reasonable given the information available; however, such adjustments are subject to change based upon the finalization of the terms of the separation and the underlying separation agreements. The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements have been provided for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of the financial condition or results of future operations or the actual financial condition or results that would have been achieved had the transactions occurred on the dates indicated. These Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements (together with the footnotes thereto) should be read in conjunction with the information provided under the sections entitled “Business,” “Selected Historical Combined Financial Data” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included elsewhere herein and our audited historical combined financial statements and accompanying notes thereto, also included elsewhere herein.

The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Income does not reflect certain pre-tax charges (which are currently estimated to be in the range of $120 million to $155 million) that are either non-recurring or are not directly attributable to the separation, which will impact net income within the 12

 

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months following the transaction, the majority of which will be non-cash. Included within such range is (i) an estimate of $40 million to $50 million relating to the acceleration of certain Cendant equity awards and (ii) an estimate of $15 million to $25 million relating to restructuring activities to be undertaken in 2006, which are expected to benefit future periods (of which $10 million to $20 million relates to our real estate brokerage business). Additionally, the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Income does not reflect any expenses associated with liabilities that may be required to be established for guarantees we expect to provide to Cendant in connection with the separation.

The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Balance Sheet does not reflect liabilities that may be required to be established in connection with guarantees we expect to provide to Cendant in connection with the separation. Any such liabilities, which could be material, will reflect the fair value of the guarantees, which is currently being determined. Upon determination of the fair values, we expect to increase pro forma liabilities by such amount with a corresponding decrease to pro forma invested equity.

 

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REALOGY CORPORATION

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2005

(in millions)

 

       Historical
As
Reported
   Adjustments     Pro Forma

Assets

       

Current assets:

       

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 36    $ (14 ) (a)   $ 22

Trade receivables

     112            112

Relocation receivables and advances

     774            774

Relocation properties held for sale

     97            97

Deferred income taxes

     47      119 (b)     166

Other current assets

     94      13 (c)     107
                     

Total current assets

     1,160      118       1,278

Property and equipment, net

     304      30 (c)     334

Deferred income taxes

     296            296

Goodwill

     3,156            3,156

Franchise agreements, net

     346            346

Trademarks and other intangibles, net

     61            61

Other non-current assets

     116      56 (d)     172
                     

Total assets

   $ 5,439    $ 204     $ 5,643
                     

Liabilities and invested equity

       

Current liabilities:

       

Accounts payable

   $ 130    $ 280 (e)   $ 410

Contingent tax liability due to former parent

          317 (f)     317

Secured obligations

     757            757

Due to Cendant, net

     440      (440 ) (g)    

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     492            492
                     

Total current liabilities

     1,819      157       1,976

Unsecured obligations

          2,175 (h)     2,175

Non-current liabilities

     53      93 (e)     146
                     

Total liabilities

     1,872      2,425       4,297
                     

Total invested equity

     3,567      (2,221 ) (i)     1,346
                     

Total liabilities and invested equity

   $ 5,439    $ 204     $ 5,643
                     

 

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REALOGY CORPORATION

NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2005

 

(a) Represents the payment of anticipated fees and costs associated with the planned issuance of $2,175 million of debt.
(b) Represents incremental net deferred tax assets (assuming a tax rate of 39.3%) associated with the expected transfer of certain Cendant corporate assets to, and the expected assumption of certain Cendant corporate liabilities by, Realogy upon separation.
(c) Represents the expected transfer of certain corporate assets to Realogy from Cendant upon separation. The assets primarily comprise shared Cendant equipment and software that is expected to be used exclusively by Realogy employees and leasehold improvements on facilities that are expected to be occupied by Realogy employees subsequent to the separation, as well as approximately 50% of Cendant’s prepaid assets that were established in connection with general business activities and are not directly attributable to a specific Cendant business.
(d) Represents (i) the expected transfer of $42 million of preferred stock and warrants in Affinion Group Holdings, Inc., to Realogy from Cendant upon separation (this pro forma adjustment represents approximately 50% of Cendant’s investment in Affinion) and (ii) $14 million of anticipated fees and costs associated with the planned issuance of $2,175 million of debt.
(e) Represents the assumption of reserves in connection with Cendant corporate liabilities for which Realogy has agreed to directly pay the third-party creditors (representing approximately 50% of certain Cendant corporate liabilities associated with legal matters, as well as approximately 50% of Cendant’s other accrued corporate liabilities that were incurred in connection with general business activities and are not directly attributable to a specific Cendant business). The actual amount that Realogy may be required to pay under this arrangement could vary depending upon the outcome of any unresolved matters, which may not be resolved for several years, and if any of the other parties responsible for such liabilities were to default in its payment of costs or expenses related to any such liability. The pro forma adjustments do not reflect estimates for any contingent assets that we may be entitled to receive upon positive resolution of certain unresolved matters.
(f) Represents the assumption of a reserve in connection with Cendant tax contingencies for which Realogy has agreed to reimburse Cendant in the event of an adverse outcome (representing approximately 50% of Cendant’s aggregate reserve for unresolved tax matters). The actual amount that Realogy may be required to pay under this arrangement could vary depending upon the outcome of the unresolved matters, which may not be resolved for several years, and if any of the other parties responsible for such liabilities were to default in its payment of costs or expenses related to any such liability. The pro forma adjustments do not reflect estimates for any contingent assets that we may be entitled to receive upon positive resolution of certain unresolved matters.
(g) Represents the elimination of the intercompany balance due to Cendant.
(h) Represents the expected issuance of $2,175 million of debt under the following facilities, which Realogy expects to enter into prior to the separation: (i) $1,225 million under an interim facility, which we expect to refinance on a long-term basis as soon as practicable after the separation, (ii) $700 million under a term loan facility and (iii) $250 million under a revolving credit facility. The initial proceeds received in connection with these borrowings are expected to be transferred to Cendant.
(i) Represents reductions to equity to reflect (i) the expected transfer of $2,175 million to Cendant, which is expected to be funded through the planned issuances of debt described in (h) above, (ii) the assumption of a $317 million reserve in connection with Cendant tax contingencies to be assumed by Realogy, as described in (f) above and (iii) the assumption of $373 million of reserves in connection with other Cendant corporate liabilities to be assumed by Realogy, as described in (e) above. These reductions are partially offset by increases to equity to reflect (i) the elimination of $440 million of intercompany balances due to Cendant, (ii) the expected transfer of $85 million of assets to Realogy from Cendant upon separation, as described in (c) and (d) above and (iii) $119 million representing the net tax effect of the above pro forma transactions, as described in (b) above.

 

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REALOGY CORPORATION

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2005

(in millions, except per share data)

 

     Historical
As
Reported
    Adjustments     Pro
Forma

Revenues

      

Gross commission income

   $ 5,666           $ 5,666

Service revenue

     764             764

Franchise fees

     538             538

Other

     171             171
                      

Net revenues

     7,139             7,139
                      

Expenses

      

Commissions and other agent-related expenses

     3,838             3,838

Operating

     1,640             1,640

Marketing

     282             282

General and administrative

     212       60 (a)     272

Depreciation and amortization

     136       6 (b)     142

Interest expense (income), net

     (7 )     137 (c)     130
                      

Total expenses

     6,101       203       6,304
                      

Income before income taxes and minority interest

     1,038       (203 )     835

Provision for income taxes

     408       (80 ) (d)     328

Minority interest, net of tax

     3             3
                      

Net income

   $ 627     $ (123 )   $ 504
                      

Earnings per share (e)

      

Basic

       $ 1.94

Diluted

       $ 1.90

Weighted average shares outstanding (e)

      

Basic

         260.0

Diluted

         265.0

 

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REALOGY CORPORATION

NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2005

 

(a) Represents the incremental estimated costs associated with operating as a separate public company ($98 million), partially offset by the elimination of general corporate overhead allocated by Cendant ($38 million). The $98 million of estimated costs associated with operating as a separate public company includes: (i) $41 million related to staff additions and increases in salaries to replace Cendant support, which was estimated using Cendant historical costs and adjusted for current market conditions as applicable, (ii) $17 million related to facilities and equipment, which was estimated using Cendant historical costs and adjusted for current market conditions as applicable, (iii) $15 million related to legal fees (including our share of unresolved Cendant legal matters), which was estimated using Cendant historical costs and adjusted for expected variations as applicable, (iv) $7 million related to information technology, which was estimated using Cendant historical costs and adjusted for expected variations as applicable, (v) $5 million related to insurance, which estimate was derived from a quote received from our current insurance broker based on current market conditions, (vi) $4 million related to Board of Directors and filing related fees, which was estimated using Cendant historical costs and adjusted for expected variations as applicable, (vii) $3 million related to audit fees, which was estimated using Cendant historical costs and adjusted for expected variations as applicable, (viii) $2 million related to the outsourcing of the payroll and accounts payable functions, which was estimated based upon written quotes received from potential providers and (ix) $4 million of other miscellaneous costs. The estimated public company costs exceed the historical allocations from Cendant by $60 million, which primarily reflects the development of certain infrastructures that were previously maintained at, and leveraged from, Cendant’s corporate function and other businesses.
(b) Represents incremental depreciation we expect to incur as a separate public company due to the expected allocation of certain assets from Cendant prior to the separation.
(c) Represents (i) the elimination of $9 million of interest income that will no longer be earned from Cendant on intercompany cash balances held by Cendant and (ii) $128 million of incremental interest expense in connection with the planned issuance of (i) $1,225 million of under an interim facility bearing interest at a fixed rate, (ii) $700 million of debt under a term loan facility expected to bear interest at LIBOR plus a negotiated spread and (iii) $250 million of debt under a revolving credit facility bearing interest at LIBOR plus a negotiated spread. Assumes an average principal amount outstanding of $2,175 million and a weighted average interest rate of approximately 6% on the aggregate borrowings. A change of one-eighth of 1% (12.5 basis points) in the interest rate associated with these borrowings would result in additional interest expense of approximately $3 million (in the case of an increase to the rate) or a reduction to interest expense of approximately $3 million (in the case of a decrease in the rate).
(d) Represents the income tax effects of (a), (b) and (c) above at an effective tax rate of 39.3%.
(e) Earnings per share and weighted average shares outstanding reflect the estimated number of common shares we expect to have outstanding upon the completion of the distribution (based off an expected distribution ratio of one share of Realogy for every four shares Cendant). These amounts do not reflect the impact of Cendant accelerating the vesting provisions of outstanding equity awards, which is expected to occur in connection with the completion of the second of the series of distributions by Cendant, as such impact will be calculated using balances then-outstanding, which are not currently determinable. Additionally, in connection with the second separation, Cendant expects to cancel equity awards that were granted at “above-target” levels. See “Management—Employee Benefit Plans—2006 Equity and Incentive Plan—Equitable Adjustments to Outstanding Cendant Equity Based Awards,” included elsewhere in this information statement. Based upon the equity awards outstanding as of December 31, 2005 and in connection with Cendant’s plan to equitably adjust its outstanding equity awards, we would have expected to issue approximately 32 million stock options and approximately 3 million shares at the date of separation. We also intend to grant equity awards in Realogy common stock to our employees, which are not reflected in the pro forma amounts as the actual awards have not yet been determined.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our Combined Financial Statements and accompanying Notes thereto included elsewhere herein. Unless otherwise noted, all dollar amounts are in millions and those relating to our results of operations are presented before taxes.

The Realogy Businesses of Cendant are global providers of real estate and relocation services. We operate in the following four segments:

 

    Real Estate Franchise Services —franchises the Century 21, Coldwell Banker, ERA, Sotheby’s International Realty and Coldwell Banker Commercial brand names.

 

    Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services —operates a full-service real estate brokerage business principally under the Coldwell Banker, ERA, Corcoran Group and Sotheby’s International Realty brand names.

 

    Relocation Services —primarily offers clients employee relocation services such as home sale assistance, home finding and other destination services, expense processing, relocation policy counseling and other consulting services, arranging household goods moving services, visa and immigration support, intercultural and language training and group move management services.

 

    Title and Settlement Services —provides full-service title, settlement and vendor management services to real estate companies, affinity groups, corporations and financial institutions with many of these services provided in connection with our real estate brokerage and relocation services businesses.

On October 23, 2005, the Board of Directors of Cendant preliminarily approved a plan to separate Cendant into four independent, publicly traded companies – one for each of Cendant’s real estate services, travel distribution services, hospitality services (including timeshare resorts) and vehicle rental businesses. In connection with the separation, we expect to enter into a $1,225 million interim loan facility, an $800 million revolving credit facility and a $700 million term loan facility. At or prior to the distribution, we intend to utilize the full capacity under these facilities with the exception of $550 million, which is expected to remain available under the revolving credit facility for general corporate purposes subsequent to the distribution. The proceeds received in connection with these borrowings ($2,175 million) are expected to be transferred to Cendant. We expect to refinance borrowings under the $1,225 million interim loan facility as soon as practicable after the distribution. Additionally, pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, we expect to be allocated a portion of certain of Cendant’s corporate assets and assume a portion of certain of Cendant’s corporate liabilities, including those arising from unresolved tax and legal matters, which are not currently reflected in our Combined Balance Sheets (see “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transaction” and “Separation from Cendant and Related Transactions” for more information.) The actual amount that we may be required to pay under these arrangements could vary depending upon the outcome of any unresolved matters, which may not be resolved for several years, and if any of the other parties responsible for such liabilities were to default in its payment of costs or expenses related to any such liability. Additionally, generally accepted accounting principles prohibit us and Cendant from recording estimates for any contingent assets that we may be entitled to receive upon positive resolution of certain unresolved matters. The benefit resulting from such matters will not be recorded within Realogy’s financial statements until the related contingencies have been resolved.

R ESULTS OF O PERATIONS

Within our Real Estate Franchise Services segment and our Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment, we measure operating performance using the following key operating statistics: (i) closed homesale sides, which represents either the “buy” side or the “sell” side of a homesale transaction, (ii) average homesale price, which represents the average selling price of closed homesale transactions and (iii) average homesale brokerage commission rate, which represents the average commission rate earned on either the “buy” side or “sell” side of a homesale transaction. In addition, in our Real Estate Franchise Services segment, we also use the net effective royalty rate, which represents the average percentage of our franchisees’ commission

 

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revenues paid to our Real Estate Franchise Services segment as a royalty. Our Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment has a significant concentration of real estate brokerage offices and transactions in geographic regions where home prices are at the higher end of the U.S. real estate market, particularly the east and west coasts, while our Real Estate Franchise Services segment has franchised offices that are more widely dispersed across the United States. Accordingly, operating results and homesale statistics may differ between our Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment and our Real Estate Franchise Services segment based upon geographic presence and the corresponding homesale activity in each geographic region.

Within our Relocation Services segment, we measure operating performance using the following key operating statistics: (i) initiations, which represent the total number of transferees we serve and (ii) referrals, which represents the number of referrals from which we received revenue from real estate brokers. In our Title and Settlement Services segment, operating performance is evaluated using the following key metrics: (i) purchase title and closing units, which represents the number of title and closing units processed as a result of home purchases, (ii) refinance title and closing units, which represents the number of title and closing units processed as a result of homeowners refinancing their home loans, and (iii) average price per closing unit, which represents the average fee we earn on purchase title and refinancing title units.

Discussed below are our combined results of operations and the results of operations for each of our reportable segments. The reportable segments presented below represent our operating segments for which separate financial information is available and which is utilized on a regular basis by our chief operating decision maker to assess performance and to allocate resources. In identifying our reportable segments, we also consider the nature of services provided by our operating segments. Management evaluates the operating results of each of our reportable segments based upon revenue and “EBITDA,” which is defined as net income before depreciation and amortization, interest expense (other than interest expense relating to secured obligations), income taxes and minority interest, each of which is presented on our Combined Statements of Income. Our presentation of EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly-titled measures used by other companies.

EBITDA includes cost allocations from Cendant of $38 million, $33 million and $30 million in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, for Cendant’s general corporate overhead. Cendant allocates such costs to us based on a percentage of our forecasted revenues or, in the case of our Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment, based on a percentage of revenues after agent commission expense. General corporate expense allocations include costs related to Cendant’s executive management, tax, accounting, legal and treasury services, certain employee benefits and real estate usage for common space. The allocations are not necessarily indicative of the actual expenses that would have been incurred had we been operating as a separate, stand-alone public company for the periods presented.

Year Ended December 31, 2005 vs. Year Ended December 31, 2004

Our combined results comprised the following:

 

       Year Ended December 31,  
     2005    2004    Change  

Net revenues

   $ 7,139    $ 6,549    $ 590  

Total expenses

     6,101      5,548      553  
                      

Income before income taxes and minority interest

     1,038      1,001      37  

Provision for income taxes

     408      379      29  

Minority interest, net of tax

     3      4      (1 )
                      

Net income

   $ 627    $ 618    $ 9  
                      

During 2005, our net revenues increased $590 million (9%) principally due to (i) a $469 million (9%) increase in gross commission income earned by our company owned brokerage operations, of which $223 million (4%) represented organic growth and $246 million (5%) resulted from expanding our presence in

 

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geographically desired areas through the acquisition of significant real estate brokerage operations and (ii) a $61 million (13%) increase in franchise fees generated by our real estate franchise operations. Total expenses increased $553 million (10%) principally reflecting (i) a $344 million (10%) increase in commission and other agent-related expenses that our brokerage operations pay to real estate agents, including $179 million of expenses related to the acquisitions discussed above, and (ii) $142 million (9%) of increased operating expenses primarily to support growth in our real estate brokerage business and current and anticipated future growth in our relocation business. Our effective tax rate increased to 39.3% in 2005 from 37.9% in 2004 primarily due to an increase in state taxes. As a result of these items, our net income increased $9 million (1%). Following is a more detailed discussion of the results of each of our reportable segments:

 

       Revenues    EBITDA  
     %    %  
     2005     2004     Change    2005     2004     Change  

Real Estate Franchise Services

   $ 988     $ 904     9    $ 740     $ 666     11  

Company Owned Real Estate

             

Brokerage Services

     5,723       5,242     9      250       263     (5 )

Relocation Services

     495       455     9      124       126     (2 )

Title and Settlement Services

     316       303     4      53       62     (15 )
                                     

Total Reportable Segments

     7,522       6,904     9      1,167       1,117     4  

Other (a)

     (383 )     (355 )   *            (2 )   *  
                                     

Total Company

   $ 7,139     $ 6,549     9      1,167       1,115     5  
                         

Less:    Depreciationand amortization

            136       120    

Interest income, net

            (7 )     (6 )  
                         

Income before income taxes and minority interest

          $ 1,038     $ 1,001    
                         

(*) Not meaningful.
(a) Includes the elimination of transactions between segments, which consists primarily of (i) intercompany royalties of $369 million and $341 million paid by our Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment to our Real Estate Franchisee Services segment during 2005 and 2004, respectively, and (ii) intercompany royalties of $14 million paid by our Title and Settlement Services segment to our Real Estate Franchise Services segment during both 2005 and 2004.

Real Estate Franchise Services

Revenues and EBITDA increased $84 million (9%) and $74 million (11%), respectively, in 2005 compared with 2004.

We franchise our real estate brokerage franchise systems to real estate brokerage businesses that are independently owned and operated. We provide operational and administrative services, tools and systems to franchisees, which are designed to assist franchisees in achieving increased revenue and profitability. Such services include national and local advertising programs, listing and agent-recruitment tools, training and volume purchasing discounts through our preferred vendor programs. Franchise revenue principally consists of royalty and marketing fees from our franchisees. The royalty received is primarily based on a percentage of the franchisee’s commissions and/or gross commission income. Royalty fees are accrued as the underlying franchisee revenue is earned (upon close of the home sale transaction). Annual volume incentives given to certain franchisees on royalty fees are recorded as a reduction to revenue and are accrued for in relative proportion to the recognition of the underlying gross franchise revenue. Franchise revenue also includes initial franchise fees, which are generally non-refundable and are recognized by us as revenue when all material services or conditions relating to the sale have been substantially performed (generally when a franchised unit opens for business). Royalty increases are recognized with little or no corresponding increase in expenses due to the significant operating leverage within the franchise operations. In addition to royalties received from our third-party franchisees, NRT, our wholly-owned real estate brokerage firm, continues to pay royalties to the Real Estate Franchise Services segment. However, these intercompany royalties, which approximated $369 million and $341 million (a $28 million increase) during 2005 and 2004, respectively, are eliminated in consolidation

 

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through the Other segment and therefore have no impact on combined revenues or EBITDA but do contribute to segment level revenues and EBITDA. Apart from the intercompany royalties received from NRT, we generated $52 million (11%) of incremental royalty revenue in 2005 as compared with 2004. Such growth was primarily driven by a 14% increase in the average price of homes sold and by a 2% increase in the number of homesale transactions from our third-party franchisees. The 14% increase in average price is reflective of the supply of, and the demand for, homes in previous quarters, resulting in an overall increase in the sales prices of homes across the nation. We expect this trend to continue to moderate throughout 2006 as industry-wide inventory levels have increased and the balance between supply and demand has returned to more normalized levels. The increase in the number of homesale transactions is due principally to an increase in closed sides related to new franchisees partially offset by sides lost due to termination or acquisition of franchises. Such increases were partially offset by a 2% decrease in the average brokerage commission rate earned by our franchisees on homesale transactions, which declined from 2.56% in 2004 to 2.51% in 2005. The overall net effective royalty rate we earn on commission revenue generated by our franchisees remained flat year-over-year.

Consistent with our growth strategy, we also earned $7 million of additional revenue in connection with the license of the Sotheby’s brand name in certain countries or international regions.

We also earn marketing fees from our franchisees and utilize such fees to fund advertising campaigns on behalf of our franchisees. In arrangements under which we do not serve as an agent in coordinating advertising campaigns, marketing revenues are accrued as the revenue is earned, which occurs as related marketing expenses are incurred. We do not recognize revenues or expenses in connection with marketing fees we collect under arrangements in which we function as an agent on behalf of our franchisees. During 2005, marketing revenues decreased $7 million, which was offset in EBITDA by a corresponding decrease in marketing expenses we incurred.

EBITDA further reflects $7 million of incremental commissions and compensation costs associated with increased sales of domestic and international franchisees in 2005 and $6 million of increased legal fees.

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

Revenues increased $481 million (9%), while EBITDA decreased $13 million (5%) in 2005 compared with 2004.

As an owner-operator of real estate brokerages, we assist home buyers and sellers in listing, marketing, selling and finding homes. We earn commissions for these services, which are recorded upon the closing of a real estate transaction (i.e., purchase or sale of a home), which we refer to as gross commission income. We then pay commissions to real estate agents, which are recognized concurrently with associated revenues. A core part of our growth strategy is the acquisition of other real estate brokerage operations. Our acquisitions of significant real estate brokerage operations subsequent to January 1, 2004 contributed incremental revenues and EBITDA of $249 million and $8 million, respectively, to 2005 operating results (reflected within the EBITDA contribution is $15 million of intercompany royalties paid to the Real Estate Franchise segment, which is eliminated in consolidation and therefore has no impact on our combined EBITDA but does affect segment level EBITDA).

Apart from these acquisitions, revenues increased $232 million (4%) and EBITDA declined $21 million (8%) in 2005 as compared with 2004. The increase in revenues was substantially comprised of higher commission income earned on homesale transactions, which was primarily driven by a 14% increase in the average price of homes sold, partially offset by (i) a 7% decline in the number of homesale transactions and (ii) a 2% decline in the average broker commission rate earned on homesale transactions. The 14% increase in average price is reflective of the supply of, and demand for, homes in previous quarters, resulting in an overall increase in the sales prices of homes across the nation. We expect this trend to continue to moderate throughout 2006 as industry-wide inventory levels have increased and the balance between supply and demand has returned to more normalized levels. We believe the 7% decline in homesale transactions is reflective of industry trends in the premium coastal markets we serve, particularly Florida, California and New England.

 

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Apart from expenses incurred by the acquired real estate brokerage operations mentioned above, EBITDA further reflects (i) $165 million of incremental commission expenses paid to real estate agents as a result of the incremental revenues earned on homesale transactions, as well as a higher average commission rate paid to real estate agents in 2005 due to the progressive nature of revenue-based agent commission schedules, (ii) a $31 million increase in expenses primarily representing inflationary increases in rent, office administration and other fixed costs, (iii) a $23 million increase in expenses incurred to support growth in the number of offices we operate, (iv) a $17 million increase in marketing expenses due to additional campaigns in 2005 and (v) a $13 million increase in intercompany royalties paid to the Real Estate Franchise Services segment, which is eliminated in consolidation and therefore has no impact on our combined EBITDA but does affect segment level EBITDA.

In 2006, we expect to undertake certain restructuring actions, which are expected to benefit future periods. As a result, we anticipate recording related expenses in the range of $10 million to $20 million.

Relocation Services

Revenues increased $40 million (9%), while EBITDA decreased $2 million (2%) in 2005 compared with 2004.

We provide relocation services to corporate and government clients for the transfer of their employees. Such services include the purchasing and/or selling of a transferee’s home, providing home equity advances to transferees (generally guaranteed by the corporate client), expense processing, arranging household goods moving services, home-finding and other related services. We earn revenues from fees charged to clients for the performance and/or facilitation of these services and recognize such revenue on a net basis as services are provided, except for instances in which we assume the risk of loss on the sale of a transferring employee’s home. In such cases, revenues are recorded on a gross basis as earned with associated costs recorded within operating expenses. In the majority of relocation transactions, the gain or loss on the sale of a transferee’s home is generally borne by the client; however, as discussed above, in certain instances we will assume the risk of loss. When the risk of loss is assumed, we record the value of the home on our Combined Balance Sheets within the relocation properties held for sale line item. The difference between the actual purchase price and proceeds received on the sale of the home is recorded within operating expenses on our Combined Statements of Income. We generally earn interest income on the funds we advance on behalf of the transferring employee, which is recorded as earned until the point of repayment by the client. Additionally, we earn revenue from real estate brokers and other third-party service providers. We recognize such fees from real estate brokers at the time our obligations are complete. For services where we pay a third-party provider on behalf of our clients, we generally earn a referral fee or commission, which is recognized at the time of completion of services.

During 2005, we earned incremental referral fees of $26 million (16%) primarily due to a 13% increase domestically in the average fee per referral and a 3% increase in referral volume. We also earned an additional $12 million (28%) of incremental management fees and commissions from services provided internationally due to increased transaction volume. The increases in referral and transaction volumes in 2005 were primarily related to a 5% increase in initiations. Additionally, revenues we earned under relocation arrangements where we retain the risk of loss on transferees’ homes increased $8 million (8%) primarily due to a 12% increase in home values, partially offset by an 8% decline in volume. These increases were partially offset by a $5 million reduction in net interest income we earned in 2005 due to higher interest and related costs we incurred as a result of utilizing available capacity under our secured financing facilities.

EBITDA further reflects (i) a $30 million increase primarily in staffing to support the increases in volume discussed above and other personnel-related costs, (ii) a $7 million increase in other expenses partially related to infrastructure improvements and (iii) a $4 million increase in expenses related to incremental commissions and other expenses attributable to the increased home values associated with transactions where we retain the risk of loss on transferees’ homes.

 

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Title and Settlement Services

Revenues increased $13 million (4%), while EBITDA decreased $9 million (15%) in 2005 compared with 2004.

We provide title and closing services, which include title search procedures for title insurance policies, home sale escrow and other closing services. Title revenues, which are recorded net of amounts remitted to third party insurance underwriters, and title and closing service fees are recorded at the time a home sale transaction or refinancing closes. We provide many of these services to third party clients in connection with transactions generated by our company owned real estate brokerage and relocation services businesses.

During 2005, we earned incremental title and closing revenues of $23 million primarily due to a 10% increase in the average price per closing unit and a 2% increase in purchase title and closing units, partially offset by a 7% decrease in refinance title and closing units. These increases in revenue were partially offset by the absence in 2005 of a $7 million gain recorded during 2004 on the sale of certain non-core assets.

EBITDA further reflects (i) $14 million of incremental costs associated with the increased volume in our purchase title and closing business and (ii) $7 million of incremental costs related to developing and enhancing certain infrastructures that were previously maintained at and leveraged from Cendant’s former mortgage business.

EBITDA for both 2005 and 2004 include $14 million of intercompany royalties paid to the Real Estate Franchises Services segment. Beginning in January 2006, the Title and Settlement Services segment will no longer remit such amounts to the Real Estate Franchise Services segment.

On January 6, 2006, we completed the acquisition of multiple title companies in Texas in a single transaction for $93 million in cash plus a $10 million (subject to potential downward adjustment) note payable to the seller within two years of the closing date. These entities provide title and closing services, including title searches, title insurance, home sale escrow and other closing services.

Year Ended December 31, 2004 vs. Year Ended December 31, 2003

Our combined results comprised the following:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2004    2003    Change  

Net revenues

   $ 6,549    $ 5,532    $ 1,017  

Total expenses

     5,548      4,672      876  
                      

Income before income taxes and minority interest

     1,001      860      141  

Provision for income taxes

     379      285      94  

Minority interest, net of tax

     4      6      (2 )
                      

Net income

   $ 618    $ 569    $ 49  
                      

During 2004, our net revenues increased approximately $1.0 billion (18%) principally due to (i) an $890 million (21%) increase in gross commission income earned by our brokerage operations, of which $672 million (16%) represented organic growth and $218 million (5%) resulted from expanding our presence in geographically desired areas through the acquisition of significant real estate brokerage operations and (ii) a $76 million (19%) increase in franchise fees generated by our franchise operations. Total expenses increased $876 million (19%) principally reflecting (i) a $625 million (22%) increase in commission and other agent-related expenses that our brokerage operations pay to real estate agents, including $154 million of expenses related to the acquisitions discussed above, and (ii) $152 million (11%) of increased operating expenses primarily to support growth in our real estate brokerage and current and anticipated future growth in our relocation businesses. Our effective tax rate increased to 37.9% in 2004 from 33.1% in 2003 primarily due to the absence in 2004 of a benefit recorded in 2003 relating to a mandatorily redeemable preferred interest. As a result of these items, our

 

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net income increased $49 million (9%). Following is a more detailed discussion of the results of each of our reportable segments:

 

     Revenues     EBITDA
     2004     2003     %
Change
    2004     2003     %
Change

Real Estate Franchise Services

   $ 904     $ 763     18     $ 666     $ 582     14

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

     5,242       4,350     21       263       188     40

Relocation Services

     455       412     10       126       113     12

Title and Settlement Services

     303       314     (4 )     62       50     24
                                    

Total Reportable Segments

     6,904       5,839     18       1,117       933     20

Other (a)

     (355 )     (307 )   *       (2 )     (1 )   *
                                    

Total Company

   $ 6,549     $ 5,532     18       1,115       932     20
                        

Less: Depreciation and amortization

           120       110    

  Interest income, net

           (6 )     (38 )  
                        

Income before income taxes and minority interest

         $ 1,001     $ 860    
                        

(*) Not meaningful.
(a) Includes the elimination of transactions between segments, which consists primarily of (i) intercompany royalties of $341 million and $288 million paid by our Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment to our Real Estate Franchisee Services segment during 2004 and 2003, respectively, and (ii) intercompany royalties of $14 million and $15 million paid by our Title and Settlement Services segment to our Real Estate Franchise Services segment during 2004 and 2003, respectively.

Real Estate Franchise Services

Revenues and EBITDA increased $141 million (18%) and $84 million (14%), respectively, in 2004 compared with 2003.

Royalty revenues generated from our third-party franchise affiliates (which excludes royalties received from NRT) increased $71 million (18%) during 2004 as compared with 2003. Such growth was primarily driven by a 13% increase in the average price of homes sold and an 8% increase in the number of homesale transactions for our third-party franchisees. Such increases were partially offset by (i) a 2% decrease in the average brokerage commission rate earned by our franchisees on homesale transactions, which declined from 2.62% in 2003 to 2.56% in 2004, and (ii) a 2% decrease in the net effective royalty rate we earn on commission revenue generated by such franchisees. The 13% increase in average price is reflective of the supply of, and the demand for, homes resulting in an overall increase in the sales prices of homes across the nation. The 8% increase in transaction volume is also consistent with overall trends in the real estate industry. In addition to royalties received from our third-party franchisees, we received intercompany royalties of $341 million and $288 million from NRT during 2004 and 2003, respectively, representing an increase of $53 million (18%). These intercompany royalties amounts are eliminated in consolidation through the Other segment and therefore have no impact on our combined revenues or EBITDA but do contribute to segment-level revenues and EBITDA.

We also recognized $21 million of incremental marketing revenues, which was offset in EBITDA by a corresponding increase in marketing expenses we incurred during 2004.

EBITDA further reflects (i) the absence of an $11 million credit recorded in 2003 reflecting the favorable resolution of a legal contingency, (ii) $9 million of increased expenses primarily associated with training and other services that we provided to our franchisees, (iii) $6 million associated with the write-off of certain assets received in connection with a legal matter that settled in 2003, (iv) $6 million of higher incentive-based compensation expense in 2004 and (v) $4 million of incremental marketing expenditures associated with increasing recognition of the Sotheby’s brand.

 

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Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

Revenues and EBITDA increased $892 million (21%) and $75 million (40%), respectively, in 2004 compared with 2003.

Our acquisitions of significant real estate brokerage operations subsequent to January 1, 2003 contributed incremental revenues and EBITDA of $223 million and $2 million, respectively, to 2004 operating results (reflected within the EBITDA contribution is $13 million of intercompany royalties paid to the Real Estate Franchise segment). Apart from these acquisitions, revenues and EBITDA increased $669 million (15%) and $73 million (39%), respectively, in 2004 as compared with 2003. The increase in revenues was substantially comprised of higher commission income earned on homesale transactions, which was primarily driven by a 16% increase in the average price of homes sold, partially offset by a 2% decrease in the average brokerage commission rate earned on homesale transactions. The number of homesale transactions remained relatively constant year-over-year. The 16% increase in average price was driven by an overall industry-wide increase in the market prices of homes and stronger volume of higher-priced homesales in 2004 compared with 2003.

Apart from expenses incurred by the acquired real estate brokerage operations mentioned above, EBITDA further reflects (i) $471 million of incremental commission expenses paid to real estate agents as a result of the incremental revenues earned on homesale transactions, as well as a higher average commission rate paid to real estate agents in 2004 due to variances in the geographic mix of homesales and the progressive nature of revenue- based agent commission schedules, (ii) a $40 million increase in intercompany royalties paid to the Real Estate Franchise Services segment, (iii) a $26 million increase in expenses primarily representing inflationary increases in rent, office administration and other fixed costs, (iv) a $25 million increase in marketing expenses due to additional campaigns in 2004, (v) a $20 million increase in expenses incurred to support growth in the number of offices we operate and (vi) $16 million of additional incentive expenses related to increased profitability of our brokerage offices.

Relocation Services

Revenues and EBITDA increased $43 million (10%) and $13 million (12%), respectively, in 2004 compared with 2003, primarily due to $30 million (22%) increase in referral fees principally resulting from a 14% increase domestically in the average fee per referral and an 8% increase in referral volume. We also earned $4 million (9%) of incremental management fees and commissions from services provided internationally due to increased transaction volume. The increases in referral and transaction volumes results from a 4% increase in initiations. Additionally, revenues we earned under relocation arrangements where we retain the risk of loss on transferees’ homes increased $12 million (13%) primarily due to a 9% increase in home values and a 3% increase in volume. We also generated $5 million of additional net interest income in 2004 due to a reduction in interest and related costs we incurred as a result of not fully utilizing available capacity under our secured borrowing facilities, which we utilize to advance funds on behalf of our clients. Partially offsetting the revenue increases were (i) a $6 million decrease in domestic management fees earned on homesale transactions and (ii) a $5 million decrease in intercompany fees previously received from the title and settlement services business for referrals, due to a new intercompany agreement established in 2003.

EBITDA further reflects (i) a $21 million increase in staffing and other personnel-related costs primarily incurred to support increased volume in 2004 and anticipated future growth and (ii) a $5 million increase in expenses related to incremental commissions and other expenses attributable to the increased home values associated with transactions where we retain the risk of loss on transferees’ homes.

Title and Settlement Services

Revenues decreased $11 million (4%) while EBITDA increased $12 million (24%) in 2004 compared with 2003. During 2004, we earned $26 million less title and closing revenue primarily due to a 52% decline in refinance title and closing units, partially offset by (i) a 22% increase in the average price per closing unit and

 

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(ii) a 1% increase in purchase title and closing units. The 52% decline in refinance volume was largely the result of interest rates increasing from the historical lows experienced in 2003. Partially offsetting the reduced title and closing revenue were (i) the effect of consolidating a variable interest entity in 2003 pursuant to FASB Interpretation No. 46, which resulted in incremental revenues of $9 million and (ii) a $7 million gain recorded on the sale of certain non-core assets in 2004.

EBITDA further reflects $23 million of reduced costs associated with the decreased volume in our refinance business and a $3 million credit related to the adjustment of a previously established litigation contingency reserve resulting from a change in estimates. These decreases were partially offset by incremental expenses of $5 million resulting from the consolidation of a variable interest entity discussed above.

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

F INANCIAL C ONDITION

 

     December 31,
2005
   December 31,
2004
   Change

Total assets

   $ 5,439    $ 5,015    $ 424

Total liabilities

     1,872      1,463      409

Invested equity

     3,567      3,552      15

Total assets increased $424 million primarily due to (i) $112 million of additional relocation receivables and advances principally resulting from increased volume and higher home values and (ii) an increase of $245 million in goodwill principally resulting from acquisition activity in 2005 within our brokerage operations. Total liabilities increased $409 million primarily due to $357 million of additional secured borrowings by our relocation business as a result of fully utilizing available capacity in 2005 (see “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Financial Obligations” for a detailed discussion). Invested equity increased $15 million principally due to $627 million of net income generated during 2005, which was substantially offset by a $609 million non-cash dividend to Cendant during 2005 reflecting the forgiveness of certain intercompany balances.

L IQUIDITY AND C APITAL R ESOURCES

Currently, our financing needs are supported by cash generated from operations with the exception of funding requirements of our relocation business where we issue secured obligations to finance relocation receivables and advances and relocation properties held for sale. Upon completion of the new financings, our liquidity will be further augmented through available capacity under our new revolving credit facility and we believe that access to this facility and our current liquidity vehicles will be sufficient to meet our ongoing needs.

Cash Flows

At December 31, 2005, we had $36 million of cash on hand, a decrease of $22 million from $58 million at December 31, 2004. The following table summarizes such decrease:

 

       Year Ended December 31,  
     2005     2004     Change  

Cash provided by (used in):

      

Operating activities

   $ 967     $ 1,039     $ (72 )

Investing activities

     (423 )     (271 )     (152 )

Financing activities

     (566 )     (741 )     175  
                        

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

   $ (22 )   $ 27     $ (49 )
                        

 

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During 2005, we generated $72 million less cash from operating activities as compared with 2004. Such change principally reflects incremental cash outflows of $126 million related to relocation receivables and advances and relocation properties held for sale principally due to increases in volume and higher home values, which resulted in greater advances on behalf of our relocation clients. These incremental cash outflows were partially offset by stronger operating results in 2005 when adjusted for non-cash items.

During 2005, we used $152 million more cash for investing activities in comparison with 2004. The increase in cash outflows primarily relates to (i) $62 million of incremental cash outflows associated with funds we are required to set aside in connection with our real estate brokerage operations and the secured borrowing arrangements of our relocation services business and (ii) an increase of $44 million in capital expenditures, the majority of which relates to leasehold improvements and information technology expenditures for new offices within our real estate brokerage operations. We anticipate aggregate capital expenditure investments for 2006 to approximate $90 million to $110 million.

During 2005, we used $175 million less cash for financing activities as compared with 2004. Such change principally reflects (i) incremental secured borrowings of $357 million within our relocation business as a result of fully utilizing available capacity in 2005 (see “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Financial Obligations” for a detailed discussion) and (ii) a decrease of $38 million in dividends paid to Cendant during 2005. Such decrease was partially offset by an increase of $238 million in intercompany funding to Cendant due to activities in the normal course of business.

In connection with our separation from Cendant, we expect to incur substantial costs, which are not reflected in our historical cash flow activity, to operate as a separate public company. See the section entitled “Separation from Cendant and Related Transactions” for a more information concerning these costs. Additionally, upon distribution of our common stock to Cendant stockholders, we expect to assume and be responsible for 50% of certain Cendant corporate liabilities, including those relating to unresolved tax and legal matters. As such, we may be required to make material cash payments to Cendant in the future. However, the actual amount that we may be required to pay under these arrangements could vary depending upon the outcome of any unresolved matters, which may not be resolved for several years, and if any of the other parties responsible for such liabilities were to default in its payment of costs or expenses related to any such liability. Additionally, we may be entitled to receive compensation from Cendant upon the positive resolution of certain unresolved Cendant matters. See “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions” and “Separation from Cendant and Related Transactions” for more information.

Financial Obligations

Indebtedness pre Separation

Our indebtedness, all of which is secured by collateralizing assets, as of December 31, consisted of:

 

     2005    2004    Change

Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC

   $ 513    $ 400    $ 113

Kenosia Funding LLC

     109           109

U.K. Relocation Receivables Funding Limited

     135           135
                    
   $ 757    $ 400    $ 357
                    

 

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At December 31, 2005, available capacity under these borrowing arrangements was as follows:

 

     Expiration Date    Total
Capacity
   Outstanding
Borrowings
   Available
Capacity (*)

Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC

   May 2006    $ 550    $ 513    $ 37

Kenosia Funding LLC

   May 2006      125      109      16

U.K. Relocation Receivables Funding Limited

   September 2008      172      135      37

Short-term borrowing facilities

   Various      535           535
                       
      $ 1,382    $ 757    $ 625
                       

(*) Capacity is subject to maintaining sufficient assets to collateralize these secured obligations.

We issue secured obligations through Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding, LLC and, beginning in 2005, Kenosia Funding, LLC and U.K. Relocation Receivables Funding Limited. These three entities are consolidated bankruptcy remote special purpose entities that are utilized to securitize relocation receivables generated from advancing funds on behalf of clients of our relocation business in order to facilitate the relocation of their employees. The secured obligations issued by these entities are non-recourse to us and, as of December 31, 2005, were collateralized by $856 million of underlying relocation receivables (which we continue to service) and other related assets, including in certain instances relocation properties held for sale. These collateralizing assets are not available to pay our general obligations. The secured obligations issued by Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding, LLC represent floating rate notes for which the weighted average interest rate was 4%, 2% and 1% for 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. The secured obligations issued by Kenosia Funding, LLC represent floating rate debt for which the weighted average interest rate was 4% for 2005. The secured obligations issued by U.K. Relocation Receivables Funding Limited represent floating rate debt for which the weighted average interest rate was 5% for 2005. Interest expense incurred in connection with borrowings under these three facilities amounted to $24 million, $8 million and $2 million during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. The Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC and Kenosia Funding LLC facilities are subject to annual renewal and were renewed through May 2006 in February and March of 2006, respectively.

In addition, within our title and settlement services and company owned real estate brokerage operations, we act as an escrow agent for numerous customers. As an escrow agent, we receive money from customers to hold on a short-term basis until certain conditions of the homesale transaction are satisfied. We do not have access to these funds for our use. However, through our title and settlement services and company owned real estate brokerage operations, we maintain short-term borrowing facilities that provide for borrowings of up to $535 million. We invest such borrowings in high quality short-term liquid investments. Any outstanding borrowings under these facilities are callable by the lenders at any time. These facilities are renewable annually and are not available for general corporate purposes. Net amounts earned under these arrangements approximated $9 million, $4 million and $2 million during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. There were no outstanding borrowings under these facilities at December 31, 2005 or 2004.

 

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Pro Forma Indebtedness post Separation

The following table reflects our indebtedness (and related collateralizing assets) as of December 31, 2005 after giving affect to the planned debt issuances in connection with the distribution, which are described in more detail in the section entitled “Overview.”

 

     As of
December 31,
2005
   Planned
Issuances/
Borrowings
    Pro
Forma

Secured assets (a)

   $ 856    $     $ 856
                     

Secured obligations

   $ 757    $     $ 757
                     

Unsecured debt:

       

Revolving credit facility

          250 (b)     250

Term loan

          700 (c)     700

Interim loan facility

          1,225 (d)     1,225
                     
          2,175       2,175
                     
   $ 757    $ 2,175     $ 2,932
                     

(a) Represents the portion of relocation receivables and advances ($774 million) and relocation properties held for sale ($97 million) that collateralize our outstanding secured obligations.
(b) Represents unsecured term loans, which are due in         , bear interest at LIBOR plus          basis points and are callable by us after         .
(c) Represents the issuance of term loans, which are due in          and bear interest at         %.
(d) Represents borrowings under a 5-year, $800 million revolving credit facility, which bears interest at LIBOR plus          to          basis points in addition to a commitment fee of          to          basis points, each of which is dependent on our credit ratings.

L IQUIDITY R ISK

Our liquidity position may be negatively affected by unfavorable conditions in the real estate or relocation market, including adverse changes in interest rates and access to our relocation asset-backed facilities, which may be limited if we were to fail to renew any of the facilities on their renewal dates or if we were to fail to meet certain ratios, which may occur in certain instances if the credit quality of the underlying receivables deteriorates.

S EASONALITY

Our businesses are subject to seasonal fluctuations. Historically, operating statistics and revenues for all of our businesses have been strongest in the second and third quarters of the calendar year. A significant portion of the expenses we incur in our real estate brokerage operations are related to marketing activities and commissions and are, therefore, variable. However, many of our other expenses, such as rent and personnel, are fixed and cannot be reduced during a seasonal slowdown.

S EPARATION FROM C ENDANT AND R ELATED T RANSACTIONS

Concurrently with our separation from Cendant, we expect to enter into a Transition Services Agreement with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company to provide for an orderly transition to being an independent company. Under the Transition Services Agreement, Cendant expects to agree to provide us with various services, including services relating to human resources and employee benefits, payroll, financial systems management, treasury and cash management, accounts payable services, telecommunications services and information technology services.

In certain cases, services provided by Cendant under the transition services agreement may be provided by one of the separated companies following the date of such companies’ separation from Cendant. Under the Transition Services Agreement, the cost of each transition service is expected to generally reflect the same payment terms and be calculated using the same cost allocation methodologies for the particular service as those

 

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associated with the costs on our accompanying Combined Financial Statements. The Transition Services Agreement is being negotiated in the context of a parent-subsidiary relationship and in the context of the separation of our company and the subsequent distributions of certain of our affiliated business units. Unless specifically indicated below, all services to be provided under the Transition Services Agreement are expected to be provided for a specified period of time, and both parties ability to terminate those services prior to the contracted terminations date without penalty will be limited. After the expiration of the arrangements contained in the Transition Services Agreement, we may not be able to replace these services in a timely manner or on terms and conditions, including cost, as favorable as those we have received from Cendant. You should refer to the “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions” section of this Information Statement for a more complete description of these and other intercompany agreements and transactions between us and Cendant.

We are working to increase our own internal capabilities to reduce our reliance on Cendant for these services. The following table reflects our current estimate of additional costs associated with being an independent public company that are incremental to our historical cost structure and variations in costs resulting from our separation from Cendant, in each case, for the first full 12-month period following our separation from Cendant (refer to the section entitled “Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements”):

 

     Amount

New costs of being a public company:

  

Facilities and equipment

   $ 17

Legal fees (including share of unresolved Cendant legal matters)

     15

Information technology

     7

Insurance

     5

Board of Directors and filing fees

     4

Audit fees

     3

Other

     4
      
     55
      

Variation in costs from separation from Cendant:

  

Staff additions and related costs to replace Cendant support

     41

Depreciation and amortization related to assets transferred from Cendant

     6

Outsourcing of payroll and accounts payable

     2
      
     49
      

Less: Cendant general corporate overhead allocation

     38
      

Estimated incremental costs

   $ 66
      

Additionally, in connection with our separation, we are expected to assume and be responsible for 50% of certain Cendant corporate liabilities, including those relating to unresolved tax and legal matters. Cendant’s Hospitality and Travel Distribution businesses, both of which are also expected to be distributed to Cendant’s shareholders as part of the separation plan, are expected to assume and be responsible for 30% and 20%, respectively, of these liabilities. The actual amount that we may be required to pay under these arrangements could vary depending upon the outcome of any unresolved matters, which may not be resolved for several years, and if any of the other parties responsible for such liabilities were to default in its payment of costs or expenses related to any such liability.

Certain lawsuits are currently outstanding against Cendant, some of which relate to accounting irregularities arising from some of the CUC International, Inc. business units acquired when HFS Incorporated merged with CUC to form Cendant. While Cendant has settled many of the principal lawsuits relating to the accounting irregularities, these settlements do not encompass all litigation associated with it. Cendant and we do not believe that it is feasible to predict or determine the final outcome or resolution of these unresolved proceedings. An adverse outcome from such unresolved proceedings or other proceedings for which we have assumed liability under the separation agreements could be material with respect to our earnings in any given reporting period.

 

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Generally accepted accounting principles prohibit us and Cendant from recording estimates for any contingent assets that we may be entitled to receive upon positive resolution of certain unresolved matters, including those relating to tax and legal matters.

C ONTRACTUAL O BLIGATIONS

The following table summarizes our future contractual obligations as of December 31, 2005 after giving affect to planned debt issuances/borrowings discussed above. The table below does not include future cash payments related to (i) contingent payments that may be made to Cendant at a future date in connection with the arrangements described above, (ii) payments that may result from the transfer of certain assets by Cendant or assumption of certain Cendant liabilities by us in connection with the separation plan or (iii) the various guarantees described in Note 11 to our Combined Financial Statements.

 

     2006    2007    2008    2009    2010    Thereafter    Total

Secured obligations (a)

   $ 757    $    $    $    $    $    $ 757

Unsecured debt (b)

                              2,175      2,175

Operating leases

     160      130      98      70      47      71      576

Purchase commitments

     15      1                          16
                                                

Total

   $ 932    $ 131    $ 98    $ 70    $ 47    $ 2,246    $ 3,524
                                                

(a) Excludes future cash payments related to interest expense as the underlying debt instruments are variable rate and the interest payments will ultimately be determined by the rates in effect during each period. Although this debt is contractually due in 2006, the facilities under which the debt is issued are subject to renewal, which is expected to occur for the foreseeable future.
(b) Excludes future cash payments related to interest expense. Approximately $950 million of the unsecured debt we plan to issue is expected to be variable rate and the interest payments will ultimately be determined by the rates in effect during each period. Interest expense associated with the fixed rate portion (planned to be approximately $1,225 million) is expected to approximate $75 million during each of 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and thereafter.

C RITICAL A CCOUNTING P OLICIES

In presenting our financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, we are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported therein. Several of the estimates and assumptions we are required to make relate to matters that are inherently uncertain as they pertain to future events. However, events that are outside of our control cannot be predicted and, as such, they cannot be contemplated in evaluating such estimates and assumptions. If there is a significant unfavorable change to current conditions, it could result in a material adverse impact to our combined results of operations, financial position and liquidity. We believe that the estimates and assumptions we used when preparing our financial statements were the most appropriate at that time. Presented below are those accounting policies that we believe require subjective and complex judgments that could potentially affect reported results. However, the majority of our businesses operate in environments where we are paid a fee for a service performed, and therefore the results of the majority of our recurring operations are recorded in our financial statements using accounting policies that are not particularly subjective, nor complex.

Business Combinations

A key component of our growth strategy is to continue to acquire and integrate independently-owned real estate brokerages and other strategic businesses that complement our existing operations. We account for business combinations in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 141, “Business Combinations” and related literature. Accordingly, we allocate the purchase price of acquired companies to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values at the date of purchase. The difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.

 

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In determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination, we use various recognized valuation methods including present value modeling and referenced market values (where available). Further, we make assumptions within certain valuation techniques including discount rates and timing of future cash flows. Valuations are performed by management, or independent valuation specialists, where appropriate. We believe that the estimated fair values assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on reasonable assumptions that marketplace participants would use. However, such assumptions are inherently uncertain and actual results could differ from those estimates.

With regard to the goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets recorded in connection with business combinations, we annually or, more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred, review their carrying values as required by SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” In performing this review, we are required to make an assessment of fair value for our goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets. When determining fair value, we utilize various assumptions, including projections of future cash flows. A change in these underlying assumptions could cause a change in the results of the tests and, as such, could cause the fair value to be less than the respective carrying amount. In such event, we would then be required to record a charge, which would impact earnings.

The aggregate carrying value of our goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets was approximately $3.2 billion and $407 million, respectively, at December 31, 2005. Our goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are allocated among four reporting units. Accordingly, it is difficult to quantify the impact of an adverse change in financial results and related cash flows, as such change may be isolated to one of our reporting units or spread across our entire organization. In either case, the magnitude of any impairment to goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible assets resulting from adverse changes cannot be estimated. However, our businesses are concentrated in one industry and, as a result, an adverse change to the real estate industry will impact our combined results and may result in impairment of our goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible assets.

Income Taxes

We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. We regularly review our deferred tax assets to assess their potential realization and establish a valuation allowance for portions of such assets that we believe will not be ultimately realized. In performing this review, we make estimates and assumptions regarding projected future taxable income, the expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary differences and the implementation of tax planning strategies. A change in these assumptions could cause an increase or decrease to our valuation allowance resulting in an increase or decrease in our effective tax rate, which could materially impact our results of operations.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Our principal market exposure is interest rate risk. Our primary interest rate exposure at December 31, 2005 was to interest rate fluctuations in the United States, specifically LIBOR, and in the United Kingdom, specifically UK LIBOR, due to their impact on variable rate borrowings. We anticipate that LIBOR and UK LIBOR rates will remain a primary market risk exposure for the foreseeable future. We do not have significant exposure to foreign currency risk nor do we expect to have significant exposure to foreign currency risk in the foreseeable future.

We assess our market risk based on changes in interest rates utilizing a sensitivity analysis. The sensitivity analysis measures the potential impact in earnings, fair values and cash flows based on a hypothetical 10% change (increase and decrease) in interest rates. In performing the sensitivity analysis, we are required to make assumptions regarding the fair values of relocation receivables and advances and secured borrowings, which approximate their carrying values due to the short-term nature of these items. We believe our interest rate risk is mitigated as the rate we incur on our secured borrowings and the rate we earn on relocation receivables and advances are based on similar variable indices.

 

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Our total market risk is influenced by factors including the volatility present within the markets and the liquidity of the markets. There are certain limitations inherent in the sensitivity analyses presented. While probably the most meaningful analysis, these “shock tests” are constrained by several factors, including the necessity to conduct the analysis based on a single point in time and the inability to include the complex market reactions that normally would arise from the market shifts modeled. We have determined that the impact of a 10% change in interest rates and prices on our earnings, fair values and cash flows would not be material. While these results may be used as benchmarks, they should not be viewed as forecasts.

 

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BUSINESS

Overview

We are one of the preeminent and most integrated providers of real estate and relocation services in the world. We operate in four segments: Real Estate Franchise Services, Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services, Relocation Services and Title and Settlement Services. Through our portfolio of leading brands and the broad range of services we offer, we have established our company as a leader in the residential real estate industry, with operations that are dispersed throughout the United States and around the world. We are the world’s largest real estate brokerage franchisor, the largest U.S. residential real estate brokerage firm, the largest U.S. and a leading global provider of outsourced employee relocation services and a provider of title and settlement services. We believe that our strong brand recognition, our geographic diversity and the complementary real estate and relocation services that we offer position us to capitalize on this growth. In 2005, we had revenues of $7.1 billion, EBITDA of $1.2 billion and net income of $627 million, each on an historical basis, representing a compounded annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of 60%, 25% and 23%, respectively, since 2001. Assuming the separation and distribution were completed on January 1, 2005, we would have had pro forma net income of $504 million for 2005. See “Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information” for our adjustments relating to increased costs associated with operating as a separate company. For a discussion of EBITDA and a reconciliation of EBITDA to net income see “Summary Historical and Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Data,” included elsewhere in this information statement.

Industry Overview

According to the National Association of Realtors (“NAR”), since 1985, the value of existing home sales in the U.S. has grown at a CAGR of 10% per year to approximately $1.8 trillion in 2005. We believe that the value of existing home sales will continue to grow at a positive rate in future years. We compete primarily in the domestic residential real estate brokerage segment of this industry which, according to Real Trends, generated approximately $67 billion of gross commission income in 2005, of which our company owned brokerage operations and our franchisees together earned $17 billion. Within this industry segment, we also provide relocation, title and settlement services as well as mortgage origination through our venture with PHH Corporation. We also compete to a lesser extent in the commercial real estate brokerage segment.

The highly fragmented real estate brokerage industry consists primarily of a large number of relatively small brokerage companies, a small number of multioffice regional brokerage companies and one national real estate brokerage company, Realogy. In addition, according to a 2004 report of NAR, approximately 93% of all real estate brokerage firms consisted of a single office.

Residential real estate brokerage companies typically realize revenues as a commission that is based on a percentage of the price of each home sold. As a result, the real estate brokerage industry generally benefits from rising home prices and increased volume of home sales. In 2005, the national median price for existing, single-family homes, as reported by NAR, was $208,300, up 12% from 2004. Since 1985, the CAGR of median home prices has increased 5.2%. Rising home ownership rates have also had a positive impact on the real estate brokerage industry. According to the United States Census Bureau, the 2005 national home ownership rate was 69%, the highest rate on record (statistics have been kept since 1900). The home ownership rate is rising in most areas of the country.

Within the domestic residential real estate brokerage industry, we derive the majority of our revenues from serving the needs of buyers and sellers of existing homes rather than those of new homes. We believe that existing home transactions and the services associated with these transactions such as mortgages and title services represents the most attractive segment of the residential real estate brokerage industry. First, we believe that this segment is generally more stable than the new home segment as evidenced by the fact that over the last 15 years, new home sales declined four times versus only twice for existing homes. As shown in the graph below, from 1950 to 2004 the growth of home sale prices has been 4.8% on a compounded annual growth rate basis and in no year have national home prices declined from the prior year. Additionally, the existing home

 

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segment represents a significantly larger addressable demand. Of the 8.3 million home sales in the United States in 2005, NAR estimates that approximately 7.1 million were existing home sales, representing over 84% of the overall sales as measured in units. Additionally, existing home sales afford us the opportunity to represent either the buyer or the seller and in some cases both are represented by a broker owned or associated with us. The new home sale segment is increasingly being served by brokerage arms of the larger homebuilders. However, we aggressively pursue opportunities to represent the buyers and, where appropriate, the selling homebuilders in these transactions.

Industry Trends

We believe that long-term demand for housing and the growth of our industry is primarily driven by the economic health of the domestic economy, interest rates and other locally based dynamics such as household income, employment rates and demand relative to supply.

Favorable long-term economic fundamentals

We believe that an important driver of home sales is positive economic fundamentals. Since 1985, existing home sales have increased from 3.2 million to 7.1 million in 2005, representing a 4.0% CAGR. Over this same period, Gross Domestic Product experienced a 5.6% CAGR. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, per capita household income increased from approximately $26,304 in 1985 to $45,915 in 2005, representing a 2.8% CAGR. Additionally, falling mortgage rates over this time period helped support the home sales growth.

Despite the expected moderation in the number of existing home sales, we expect that the housing market will continue to benefit from positive long-term economic fundamentals. According to the Global Insight, GDP is expected to grow 3.0% per year over the next five years. Additionally, the U.S. Census Bureau projects that household income will increase to $64,181 in 2015 from $45,915 in 2005, representing a CAGR of 3.4%. Finally, according to Global Insight, average 30-year fixed mortgage rates are projected to be between 6.8% and 7.8% through 2015 as compared to 6.22% as of December 31, 2005.

 

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The following graph indicates that, since 1950, home prices have not decreased year over year on a national basis. This includes during eight documented recessions. In addition, according to NAR, in January and February of 2006, average existing home sale prices were up 7% over the corresponding months in 2005 on a national basis. Accordingly, we believe annual home price appreciation is reasonable to forecast.

LOGO

Year   HPA         AVERAGE       Recessions

1950

  5.48            4.8     0

1951

  7.71     4.8     0

1952

  2.67     4.8     0

1953

  1.76     4.8   16

1954

  1.8     4.8   16

1955

  0.9     4.8     0

1956

  2.6     4.8     0

1957

  3.4     4.8   16

1958

  0.8     4.8   16

1959

  0.8     4.8     0

1960

  2     4.8   16

1961

  0.8     4.8     0

1962

  1.6     4.8     0

1963

  1.2     4.8     0

1964

  0.7     4.8     0

1965

  2.1     4.8     0

1966

  4.1     4.8     0

1967

  2.8     4.8     0

1968

  5.3     4.8     0

1969

  7.6     4.8     0

1970

  2.8     4.8   16

1971

  3.666666667     4.8     0

1972

  4.613774022     4.8     0

1973

  9.285203717     4.8     0

1974

  8.35895088     4.8   16

1975

  5.999879278     4.8   16

1976

  7.909572348     4.8     0

1977

  10.63852243     4.8     0

1978

  14.22302776            4.8     0

1979

  12.25154501     4.8     0

1980

  8.27691392     4.8   16

1981

  5.795856667     4.8   16

1982

  2.990842372     4.8   16

1983

  3.064795838     4.8     0

1984

  4.081133172     4.8     0

1985

  4.982216866     4.8     0

1986

  6.977265091     4.8     0

1987

  7.05349665     4.8     0

1988

  6.253820013     4.8     0

1989

  6.272290099     4.8     0

1990

  3.314785546     4.8   16

1991

  1.902845886     4.8   16

1992

  2.724879694     4.8     0

1993

  2.140097295     4.8     0

1994

  2.62250098     4.8     0

1995

  3.279346041     4.8     0

1996

  4.073971336     4.8     0

1997

  3.9926792     4.8     0

1998

  5.320803076     4.8     0

1999

  5.251545288     4.8     0

2000

  7.062704236     4.8     0

2001

  7.945808978     4.8   16

2002

  6.819424624     4.8     0

2003

  6.832313647     4.8     0

2004

  10.67179355     4.8     0

Sources: E.H. Boeckh and Associates, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, Freddie Mac

 

 

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The following graph supports our belief that home price appreciation has been in line with disposable income levels. It also shows that the average size of a house has grown approximately 50% since 1973, which has further supported annual existing home sale price increases.

 

LOGO

Year   Average
    Square Feet    
  Income     CMHPI

1973

  1650   0            0

1974

  1695   8.671889233     7.885304659

1975

  1645   18.58261979     19.3320817

1976

  1700   31.4447076     36.3031234

1977

  1720   44.8715613     52.97832395

1978

  1755   60.35707779     65.64260113

1979

  1760   77.55511022     75.19485692

1980

  1740   89.65203134     80.48586221

1981

  1720   102.4776826     85.99305911

1982

  1710   123.9752232     93.59390112

1983

  1725   136.983057     103.2144279

1984

  1780   148.2419384     117.3806679

1985

  1785   159.1728912     132.6847585

1986

  1825   178.2109674     147.2321784

1987

  1905   195.7004919     162.7240143

1988

  1995   211.6779013     171.4228822

1989

  2035   220.240481     176.5830346

1990

  2080   236.6369102            184.0985379

1991

  2075   243.63272     190.1746601

1992

  2095   256.1668792     197.7470558

1993

  2095   269.5755147     207.5041247

1994

  2100   284.2047732     220.0432383

1995

  2095   299.7267262     232.8156113

1996

  2120   321.9894334     250.4750526

1997

  2150   336.764438     268.766001

1998

  2190   364.0371652     294.6919269

1999

  2223   378.0470031     325.9998862

2000

  2266   394.8988887     354.8443989

2001

  2324   411.0584806     385.4468908

2002

  2320   436.9284023     439.4663481

2003

  2330        

2004

  2349        

2005

             

 

Strong demographics trends

We expect that compelling supply and demand forces, largely driven by favorable demographic trends, will contribute to the continued expansion of the residential real estate market. Favorable demographic factors are expected to continue to drive increased household formations. Generally, the number of U.S. households grew from 96 million in 1991 to 114 million in 2005, increasing at a rate of 1% per year on a CAGR basis. According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, that annual growth trend is expected to continue through 2015. Moreover, as the approximately 75 million baby boomers age, we expect that their housing demand will increasingly be directed toward single-family homes aimed at move-up buyers, as well as second homes. Children of the baby boomers (“echo boom”) are now beginning to impact the housing market and are buying houses at a much younger age than previous generations. Finally, the U.S. housing market is also expected to benefit from immigration which is anticipated to account for almost one third of the net U.S. household growth through the next decade, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University.

 

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Immigration into the U.S.

LOGO

Sources: The Yearbook of Immigration Statistics, Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University

Increasing home ownership

We believe that the historical trend towards increasing home ownership in the U.S. housing market will continue to support the long term growth of the industry. According to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Homeownership Alliance, the overall home ownership rate has increased from approximately 64% in 1990 to 69% in 2004 as low interest rates, strong economic growth and continued demand from both minorities and baby boomers contributed to increasing home ownership. The U.S. Census Bureau and the Homeownership Alliance also anticipate continued growth in the home ownership rate to 70% by 2013 due to the movement of recent immigrants into home ownership and the continued trend of baby boomers entering their peak home ownership years.

Home ownership rate in the United States

LOGO

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, Homeownership Alliance

The growth trend in the home buying market also increases demand for title and settlement services. According to an A.M. Best report, the title and settlement services industry for residential real estate has grown from $4.8 billion in 1995 to $16.4 billion in 2004. Home purchases generally require certain title and settlement services. As home values continue to rise, revenues earned from title insurance premiums have increased. This is because the fee for a title insurance policy is based on the value of the home.

Relocation trends

There has been an increasing trend in which international companies are consolidating their global relocation purchasing with single service providers. This has benefited providers with a more comprehensive suite of services such as Cartus. There has been a continual shift in revenue sources from management fees to referral fees/commissions from third party providers. Increasing home values in recent years have led to increased referral fees (which are based on a percentage of home values) and have further accelerated this favorable trend. Human resource outsourcing firms provide a broad range of human resource services including relocation and have entered this space largely as intermediaries and they are increasingly relying on companies like Cartus to provide them with relocation services.

 

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Internet trends

Consumers’ use of the Internet to search for a home has risen dramatically over time, increasing to more than 70% in 2005 from only 2% of buyers in 1995. The same 2005 study by NAR shows that 24% of home buyers identified the Internet as where they first learned about the home they purchased, up from 15% in 2004.

At the same time, the Internet has not served to disintermediate traditional real estate brokers and agents from their clients. Because homes are unique—they are not commodities—traditional brokers and agents remain integral to the real estate transaction, even as consumers’ Internet usage rises. The NAR survey shows that 81% of buyers who use the Internet to search for a home actually purchase their home through a real estate agent. In contrast, only 63% of non-Internet users buy their homes through a real estate agent. In addition, the level of “For Sale By Owner” sales is on a sustained decline, down to 13% in 2005 from a high of 18% in 1997.

The technology required for brokers to remain state-of-the-art is continually evolving, and firms with the capital resources to make such investments will be better able to attract new franchisees and sales associates. This access to advanced technology—whether it is for marketing, training or online lead management—provides a competitive advantage for our brokers and sales associates, enabling them to attract more buyers and sellers.

While overall real estate advertising spending has held flat during the past three years, more and more advertising has shifted from print to online media. According to Borrell Associates Inc., the percentage share of total real estate advertising dollars spent online nearly doubled in three years, going from 8.3% in 2003 to 15.9% in 2005. For brokers who decrease their dependency on print advertising, this could also contribute to lower marketing costs and potentially lead to a decrease in absolute spending levels for traditional brokers. The Internet has been, and we believe will continue to be a great enabler for the real estate industry.

Our Strengths

We believe that the following competitive strengths differentiate us from our competitors:

 

    Strong portfolio of leading real estate brands .  Our brands are among the most well known and established real estate brokerage brands in the world. The strong image and familiarity of our brands attract potential real estate buyers and sellers to seek out brokers affiliated with our brands. We believe that brand recognition is important in the real estate business because home buyers and sellers are generally infrequent users of brokerage services and typically rely on reputation as well as word-of-mouth recommendations. Each of our brands has a unique history and heritage. Coldwell Banker and Coldwell Banker Commercial are two of the oldest national real estate brands in the U.S. and will be celebrating their 100 th anniversaries in 2006. Century 21, founded in 1971, is the only real estate franchise system brand to earn a place in the book, “America’s Greatest Brands.” ERA, also founded in 1971 as Electronic Realty Associates, Inc., initiated the use of fax machines to sell homes long before any of its competitors. Sotheby’s International Realty, founded in 1976 in part to serve the clients of the Sotheby’s auction house, quickly became known for representing extraordinary estates throughout the world. We believe that maintaining the image and recognizability of our brands is key to our growth. We also believe that real estate sales associates think that a brokerage firm’s image with customers is one of its most important attributes.

 

    Significant scale and diversity .  We believe that the strong presence of each of our businesses in their respective industries and the broad range of real estate and relocation services that we offer provide us with advantages in the residential real estate market relative to our competitors. We believe that our size and scale reduces our operational risk and improves our operating efficiencies, profit margins and service levels through our ability to develop, roll out and integrate new technologies and eliminate redundant costs. We also believe that our size enables us to access capital at a relatively low cost to fund strategic acquisitions to grow our business, which has contributed to our revenues and returns over time. Our size and geographic diversity also reduces the risk that a local or regional slowdown in the real estate market will have a material adverse effect on our financial results.

 

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    Strong business model with stable cash flows.   We believe that our established role as an intermediary in the home sale process and the integrated business model that we have developed enable us to achieve profitability and stable cash flows. Our franchise operations have a recurring revenue base, generate high profit margins and require relatively minimal capital investment. In addition, our franchise systems are marketed and accessible to multiple segments of the residential real estate brokerage market, as our franchisees range from smaller one or two office operations to larger-scale operators with multiple locations and experience in the industry. Our company owned brokerage business provides significant revenues through the payment of royalties to our real estate franchise business, while having a cost structure with a relatively large variable cost component, which allows us to maintain our high overall margins even during a slowdown in the housing market. Our business model and strong cash flow allow us the flexibility to grow through multiple avenues and focus on the areas that will maximize our return on capital.

 

    Revenue enhancing “value circle” among our complementary businesses.   Each one of our businesses, as well as our interest in PHH Home Loans, provides an opportunity to cross-sell additional services to a customer and capture revenue from the different service components associated with residential real estate transactions. We refer to this ability to capture revenues on several aspects of a real estate transaction as our “value circle.” For instance, through Cartus and the over 120,000 individual relocations that we manage annually, we are able to capture incremental business opportunities through cross-selling many of our related products and services throughout our company. For example, when a client of Cartus hires us to relocate one of its employees, the relocation business may refer the employee to a real estate sales associate affiliated with one of our company owned or franchised real estate brokerages to assist him or her in buying a new home and/or selling their current home. In connection with the purchase, the real estate associate may refer the employee to our local title agent for title insurance and settlement services and to PHH Home Loans for mortgage services. In addition, we are growing our title and settlement services business by leveraging the strong geographic presence of our company owned brokerage business and franchisees and increasing the percentage of our customers that use our title and settlement services business. We believe that our value circle uniquely positions us to generate additional revenue growth opportunities in all of our businesses and enhance the customer’s overall experience.

 

    Strong and experienced management team.   Our executive officers have extensive experience in the real estate industry, which we believe is an essential component to our future growth as a stand-alone real estate and relocation services company. Our experienced senior management team combines a deep knowledge of the real estate markets, an understanding of industry trends and a proven ability to identify, effect and integrate acquisitions. Our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Henry R. Silverman, is the current Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Cendant. Mr. Silverman founded HFS Incorporated in 1990 and began acquiring real estate franchisors in 1995. In addition to Mr. Silverman’s real estate experience, his capital markets and public company experience will serve as an invaluable resource to our company. Richard A. Smith, our Vice Chairman and President, has been the head of Cendant’s Real Estate Services division since 1996 and began his franchise career in 1979. Furthermore, the heads of our four operating businesses are seasoned executives with an average of over 20 years of experience in their respective areas in the real estate industry.

 

   

Innovative technology.   We believe that we effectively use innovative technology to attract more customers, enhance sales associates’ productivity and improve our profitability. Early in 2005, we began rolling out our proprietary LeadRouter system. LeadRouter sends Internet customer leads directly to a sales associate’s cellular phone in real time, dramatically increasing the sales associate’s response rate and improving response time. Nearly all of our company owned brokerage operations and over 18% of our franchisees are using LeadRouter. Additionally, our company owned brokerage operations have begun using our proprietary SearchRouter technology and we have begun rolling this new technology out to our franchisees. SearchRouter makes it easy for consumers to go directly from one of our national brand websites to a local broker’s website, thereby transforming the national brand website into a

 

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gateway to view all local listings. We believe that our continued use and marketing of innovative technology, together with our aggressive Internet search engine marketing campaign, assisted in generating over 78 million visitors to our company owned real estate brokerage websites during 2005.

Our Strategy

Our goal is to be the leading provider of a broad range of world-class real estate and relocation services to our customers while increasing revenues and profitability across all of our businesses. Our business strategy is focused on the following initiatives:

 

    Expand and grow our real estate franchise business .  We intend to continue to grow our real estate franchise business by selling new franchises, establishing and/or purchasing new brands, assisting current franchisees with their acquisitions and helping franchisees recruit productive sales associates. According to NAR, approximately 50% of sales associates in the U.S. work at brokerages that are unaffiliated with a national or regional franchise system. We believe our franchise sales force can effectively market our franchise systems to these unaffiliated brokerages. We also intend to grow our real estate franchise business by establishing new franchise brands and/or purchasing additional franchise brands. For example, since we entered into an exclusive license to franchise Sotheby’s International Realty in February 2004, we created a new franchise system which we have now grown from 15 company owned offices to 220 franchise and company owned offices, all of which generate royalties for our franchise business. We believe that the acquisition of the exclusive rights to this brand has enabled us to capitalize on the significant opportunity in the upper end of the real estate market at a rate faster than would otherwise have been possible. We continually seek to improve the world-class service and support that we provide to our franchisees and seek to improve or at least maintain our franchise retention rate of 99% for 2005. We also assist our franchisees in growing their business by providing them with forgivable loans that are intended to cover all or a portion of their out-of-pocket expenses that they incur in the opening of or conversion into offices operating under one of our franchised brands or when our current franchisees acquire independent brokerages. These advances are forgivable over the term of the franchise agreement provided the franchisee’s operations satisfy certain criteria. Furthermore, we seek to provide additional training, technology and marketing programs to enhance the productivity of our franchisees. We will also continue to expand our international presence through the sale of international master franchise rights and by providing consulting services to the international master franchisors to facilitate growth in each respective territory.

 

    Effectively grow our company owned real estate brokerage business.   We intend to grow our company owned real estate brokerage business both organically and through strategic acquisitions, including, possibly, acquisitions using Realogy common stock as currency. To grow our business organically, our management will focus on working with office managers to recruit, retain and develop effective sales associates who can successfully engage and earn fees from new clients. We also intend to selectively open new offices and monitor existing offices to reduce storefront costs while increasing operating efficiency. We will continue to be opportunistic and identify and make acquisitions in markets where there is potential for growth or that otherwise serve our overall long-term strategy and goals.

 

    Increase our relocation services client base and service offerings.   We intend to grow our relocation services business through a combination of adding new clients, providing additional services to existing clients and providing new product offerings. We also will continue to be a leader in providing global relocation services in existing and growing markets where our clients are placing employees, by expanding our global network presence with third party agents. We believe our comprehensive suite of services enables us to meet all of our clients’ global relocation needs. Our top 25 relocation clients have an average tenure of 15 years with us.

 

   

Expand our title and settlement services geographic coverage and capture rate.   The majority of our title and settlement services offices are located in or around our company owned brokerage offices. We believe our title and settlement services business earns a large portion of its revenues because of the proximity of its offices to our company owned brokerage offices and the excellent customer service

 

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provided to sales associates affiliated with these company owned brokerage offices. We intend to grow our title and settlement services business through the completion of additional acquisitions, increasing the number of title and settlement services offices that are located in or around our company owned brokerage offices and through entering into contracts and ventures with our franchisees that will enable them to participate in the title and settlement services business. We will also continue to provide exceptional service to increase capture rates of available business in our existing locations.

 

    Utilize new technology.   According to NAR, over 70% of all homebuyers used the Internet in their search for a new home in 2005. In addition, many potential new customers use the Internet to perform research on real estate brokers. Recognizing this trend and the opportunity it provides for our franchisees and our company owned real estate brokerage business, we are increasing the percentage of our advertising dollars that are spent on Internet based advertising relative to print ads and other traditional forms of advertising. In addition, we intend to continue to develop new technologies that will be more responsive to our customers’ needs and should help our sales associates to become more efficient and successful. In 2006, we will continue the roll-out of LeadRouter (patent pending) and SearchRouter to our franchisees. LeadRouter sends Internet leads directly to a sales associate’s cellular phone in real time, and SearchRouter allows consumers to go directly from one of our national brand websites to a local broker’s website, thereby transforming the national brand website into a gateway to view, in some cases, all local listings. We expect both of these technologies will improve the revenues and profitability of our franchisees. We will continue our efforts to identify, acquire and market new technologies and monitor, and where appropriate, adopt other technologies to improve our business.

 

    Increase cross-selling opportunities arising from the value circle.   We will continue to take full advantage of our value circle and to increase revenues in all of our businesses by increasing our cross-selling opportunities. In our title and settlement services business, we plan to increase revenues by expanding our title and settlement services geographic coverage to additional markets where we have a franchise presence or where we operate our company owned brokerage operations. We will also seek to increase the percentage of customers of our company owned brokerage operations and our relocation services business that use our title and settlement services by providing excellent customer service, lower cost and convenience. Our relocation services business will refer transferring employees to our franchisees and our company owned brokerage offices that are part of the Cartus Broker Network. We will seek to increase the percentage of successful referrals through enhanced coordination as well as by maintaining a referral network that covers the entire United States. We will seek to drive mortgage volume to PHH Home Loans, our mortgage venture, by ensuring the mortgage loan advisor is personally aware of our customer and his or her needs, while seeking to increase the number of referrals that our company owned brokerage offices and franchised real estate offices receive from PHH Home Loans.

Value Circle

Our four complementary businesses work together to form our “value circle.” Our value circle is a major driver of our revenue growth. This is demonstrated through the following examples:

 

    After becoming a franchisee, we may ask the franchisee, if qualified, to join the Cartus Broker Network, our relocation business referral network, and to work with our title and settlement services business. If qualified, the approved broker would be eligible to receive relocation referrals from our relocation services business, and our relocation services business would receive a fee for the referral. Our franchisees may also enter into marketing or service agreements or title agency ventures with our title and settlement services business, which will allow them to participate in the title and settlement services business.

 

    Our Cartus Broker Network is a network of brokers that accepts referrals from our relocation services business. Approximately 94% of the Cartus Broker Network is affiliated with our brands, including both our franchisees and our company owned brokerage business. As such, our real estate franchise systems business, through royalty payments from franchisees and company owned brokerage operations, and our company owned brokerage business, through commissions, earn revenues from the referral.

 

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    The majority of our title and settlement services business offices are located in or around our owned brokerage offices and capture approximately 50% of all title and settlement services that originate in those offices.

 

    When our relocation services business assists a transferee in selling his or her home, the transferee frequently uses our title and settlement services business; and, where customary, our title and settlement service business also provides services in connection with the purchase of the transferee’s new home.

 

    Through our 49.9% ownership of PHH Home Loans, we earn 49.9% of any income earned as a result of a referral from our company owned brokerages or our relocation services business. PHH Mortgage, the mortgage subsidiary of PHH Corporation and the 50.1% owner of PHH Home Loans, LLC, is the only endorsed provider of mortgages for customers of our franchisees and we receive a marketing fee for promotion in connection with our endorsement.

It is possible that all four of our businesses can derive revenue from the same real estate transaction. An example would be when a relocation services business client engages us to relocate an employee, who then hires a real estate agent affiliated with one of our owned and operated real estate brokerages to assist the employee in buying a home from a seller, who listed the house with one of our franchisees and uses our local title agent for title insurance and settlement services and obtains a mortgage through our mortgage venture with PHH Corporation. This value circle uniquely positions us to generate revenue growth opportunities in all of our businesses.

History and Development

We are currently a wholly owned subsidiary of Cendant Corporation that was organized in January 2006 to effectuate this transaction. Cendant Corporation was created in December 1997 through the merger of CUC International, Inc. (“CUC”) and HFS Incorporated (“HFS”). Prior to the merger, HFS was a major real estate, hospitality and car rental franchisor. HFS acquired PHH Corporation in April 1997. HFS owned the Century 21, Coldwell Banker and ERA franchise systems as well as the HFS Mobility relocation business. HFS Mobility was originally comprised of the Coldwell Banker Relocation, Worldwide Relocation and (after April 1997) the PHH Real Estate Services Corporation relocation companies. Following the merger of CUC and HFS, HFS Mobility changed its name to Cendant Mobility Services Corporation. In August 1997, Cendant and other investors, led by Apollo Management, formed NRT to acquire independent residential real estate brokerage offices and convert them to Coldwell Banker and ERA brokerage offices. Between 1997 and 2005, NRT acquired over 300 brokerage companies. In April 2002, Cendant acquired all of NRT’s common stock from Apollo Management and other investors and also simultaneously formed the Cendant Settlement Services Group to hold all of its title and settlement services businesses. In February 2004, Cendant acquired the Sotheby’s International Realty residential brokerage business and entered into an exclusive license agreement for the rights to the Sotheby’s International Realty trademarks. Prior to the distribution, Cendant will transfer to Realogy Corporation all of the assets and liabilities, including the entities holding substantially all of the assets and liabilities, of Cendant’s Real Estate Services business.

Real Estate Franchise Business

As the largest franchisor of real estate brokerages in the world, our brands are among the most well known and established real estate brokerage brands in the real estate industry. We currently have approximately 15,000 franchised and company owned offices and 310,000 sales associates operating under our franchise brands in the U.S. and other countries and territories around the world, which includes over 1,000 of our company owned and operated brokerage offices. In the U.S. during 2005, we estimate, based on publicly available information, that brokers operating under one of our franchised brands represented the buyer or the seller in approximately one out of every four single family homes sale transactions that involved a broker.

Our primary objectives are to sell new franchises, create or acquire new brands, retain existing franchises and, most importantly, provide world-class service and support to our franchisees in a way that enables them to increase their revenue and profitability.

 

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Our real estate franchise brands are:

 

           
    LOGO   LOGO   LOGO   LOGO   LOGO
 
Description  

One of the world’s

largest residential

real estate sales

organizations

 

One of the world’s

largest real estate

brokerage franchisors

 

A leading residential

real estate brokerage

franchisor

 

Luxury real

estate brokerage

franchisor

 

A leader in

commercial real

estate

Offices (a)   7,877   3,835   2,843   220   163
 
Brokers and Agents (a)   143,200   125,000   36,600   5,100   1,400
 
U.S. Annual Sides (b)   893,463   725,814   218,843   9,880   N/A
 

# Countries with Master

Franchise Agreements

  41   29   29   4   6
 
Characteristics  

Ÿ   Well-recognized
name in real estate

Ÿ   Innovative national
and local marketing

 

Ÿ   100-year old real
estate company

Ÿ   Pioneer in Concierge Services
and a market
leader in million-dollar homes

 

Ÿ   30-year old company

Ÿ   Established the first real estate franchise network outside of North America in 1981

 

Ÿ   Well-known name
in the luxury
market

Ÿ   New luxury
franchise model
launched by
Cendant in 2004

 

Ÿ   Founded in 1906

Ÿ   Services
corporations, small
business clients and
investors

Note:  Includes both affiliates and owned brokerages

(a)  Offices and agents as of 12/31/05

(b)  U.S. annual sides as of 12/31/05; includes franchisees only

Our real estate franchise business generates high operating margins and has consistent revenue streams and low capital requirements. We have generated significant growth in our real estate franchise business by increasing the penetration of our existing brands in their markets, increasing the number of master franchise agreements that we sell and increasing the geographic diversity of our franchised locations to ensure exposure to multiple areas. We believe that exposure to multiple geographic areas throughout the U.S. and internationally also reduces our risk of exposure to local or regional changes in the real estate market. In addition, our large number of franchisees reduces our reliance on the revenues of a few franchisees. During 2005, our largest franchisee generated only 0.8% of our real estate franchise business revenues.

We derive substantially all of our real estate franchising revenues from royalty fees received under long-term franchise agreements with our franchisees. The royalty fee is based on a percentage of the franchisees’ gross commission income that they earn from real estate transactions. In general, we provide our franchisees with a license to use the brands’ service marks, tools and systems in connection with their business, provide them with educational materials which contains recommended methods, specifications and procedures for operating the franchise, continuous training programs and assistance and a national marketing program and related services. We operate and maintain an Internet-based reporting system for our franchisees which allows them to electronically transmit listing information, transactions, reporting information and other relevant reporting data. We also own and operate websites for each of our brands. We offer our franchisees the opportunity to sell ancillary services such as title insurance and settlement services as a way to enhance their business and to increase our cross-selling initiative. We believe that one of our strengths is the strong relationships that we have with our franchisees as evidenced by the 99% retention rate in 2005. Our retention rate represents the annual gross commission income generated by our franchisees that is kept in the franchise system on an annual basis, measured against the annual gross commission income as of December 31 of the previous year. Generally, lost gross commission income is due to termination of a franchise for cause including non-payment or non-performance, retirement or a mutual release.

The franchise agreements impose restrictions on the business and operations of the franchisees and requires them to comply with the operating and identity standards set forth in each brand’s policy and procedures manuals. A franchisee’s failure to comply with these restrictions and standards could result in a termination of

 

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the franchise agreement. The franchisees may, in some cases, mostly in the Century 21 brand, have limited rights to terminate the franchise agreements. Prior versions of the Century 21 franchise agreements, that are still in effect but are no longer offered to new franchisees, permit the franchisee to terminate the agreement if the franchisee retires, becomes disabled or dies. Generally, the franchise agreements have a term of ten years and require the franchisees to pay us an initial franchise fee of up to $25,000, plus, upon the receipt of any commission income, a royalty fee, in most cases, equal to 6% of such income. Each of our franchise systems (other than Coldwell Banker Commercial) offers a volume incentive program that returns a portion of the royalties paid. Each franchisee is eligible to receive a volume incentive upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. The amount of the volume incentive varies depending upon the franchisee’s annual gross revenue subject to royalty payments for the prior calendar year. Under the current form of franchise agreements, the maximum volume incentive varies for each franchise system, and ranges from 2% to 3% of gross revenues. We provide a detailed table to each franchisee that describes the gross revenue thresholds required to achieve a volume incentive and the corresponding incentive amounts. We reserve the right to increase or decrease the percentage and/or dollar amounts in the table, subject to certain limitations. Our company owned brokerage offices do not participate in the volume incentive program. Franchisees and company owned offices are also required to make monthly contributions to national advertising funds maintained by each brand for the creation and development of advertising, public relations and other marketing programs.

Under certain circumstances, forgivable loans are extended to eligible franchisees for the purpose of covering all or a portion of the out-of-pocket expenses for a franchisee to open or convert into an office operating under one of our franchise brands, to facilitate the franchisee’s acquisition of an independent brokerage or for major renovations. Many franchisees use the advance to change stationery, signage, business cards and marketing materials or to assist in acquiring companies. The loans are not funded until appropriate credit checks and other due diligence are done and the business is opened and operating under one of our brands. Upon satisfaction of certain criteria, the cash advances are forgiven over the term of the franchise agreement.

In addition to offices owned and operated by our franchisees, we own and operate approximately 1,000 of the Coldwell Banker, ERA, Coldwell Banker Commercial and Sotheby’s International Realty offices through our NRT subsidiary. NRT pays intercompany royalty fees of approximately 6% of its commission income plus marketing fees to our real estate franchise business in connection with its operation of these offices. These fees are recognized as income or expense by the applicable segment level and eliminated in the consolidation of our businesses. NRT is not eligible for any volume incentives and it is the largest contributor to the franchise system’s national marketing funds under which it operates.

In the United States, we employ a direct franchising model whereby we contract with and provide services directly to independent owner-operators. In other parts of the world, we generally employ either a master franchise model, whereby we contract with a qualified, experienced third party to build a franchise enterprise in such third party’s country or region, or a direct franchising model.

We also offer service providers an opportunity to market their products to our brokers, sales associates and their customers through our Preferred Alliance Program. To participate in this program, service providers generally pay us an initial fee, subsequent commissions based upon our franchisees’ or sales associates’ usage of the preferred alliance vendors or both. In connection with the spin-off of PHH Corporation, Cendant’s former mortgage business, PHH Mortgage, the subsidiary of PHH Corporation that conducts mortgage financing, is the only provider of mortgages for customers of our franchisees that we endorse. We receive a marketing fee for promotion in connection with our endorsement.

We own the trademarks “Century 21,” “Coldwell Banker,” “Coldwell Banker Commercial,” “ERA” and related trademarks and logos, and such trademarks and logos are material to the businesses that are part of our real estate business. Our franchisees and our subsidiaries actively use these marks, and all of the material marks are registered (or have applications pending) with the United States Patent and Trademark Office as well as with corresponding trademark offices in major countries worldwide where these businesses have significant operations.

 

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We have an exclusive license to own, operate and franchise the Sotheby’s International Realty brand to qualified residential real estate brokerage offices and individuals operating in eligible markets pursuant to a license agreement with SPTC, Inc., a subsidiary of Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc. Such license agreement has a 100-year term, which consists of an initial 50-year term and a 50-year renewal option. In connection with our acquisition of such license, we also acquired the domestic residential real estate brokerage operations of Sotheby’s which are now operated by NRT. We pay a licensing fee to Sotheby’s Holdings for the use of the Sotheby’s International Realty name equal to 9.5% of the royalties earned by our Real Estate Franchise Business attributable to franchisees affiliated with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand, including company owned brokers.

Each of our brands has a consumer web site that offers real estate listings, contacts and services. Century21.com, coldwellbanker.com, coldwellbankercommercial.com, sothebysrealty.com and era.com are the official web sites for the Century 21, Coldwell Banker, Coldwell Banker Commercial, Sotheby’s International Realty and ERA real estate franchise systems, respectively.

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

Through our subsidiary, NRT, we own and operate a full-service real estate brokerage business in more than 35 of the largest metropolitan areas in the U.S. Our company owned real estate brokerage business operates under our franchised brands, principally Coldwell Banker, ERA and Sotheby’s International Realty, as well as proprietary brands that we own, but do not currently franchise, such as The Corcoran Group. We have nearly 1,100 company owned brokerage offices, approximately 9,000 employees and over 64,000 independent contractor sales associates working with these company owned offices. From the date of Cendant’s acquisition of 100% of NRT in April 2002 through 2005, we acquired over 90 brokerage companies. These acquisitions have been a substantial contributor to the growth of our company owned brokerage business.

Our real estate brokerage business derives revenue primarily from sales commissions, which are received at the closing of real estate transactions, which we refer to as gross commission income. Sales commissions usually range from 5% to 7% of the home’s sale price. In transactions in which we act as a broker for solely the buyer or the seller, the seller’s broker typically instructs the closing agent to pay the buyer’s broker a portion of the sales commission. Sales associates generally receive between 50% and 80% of the commission payable to us. In addition, as a full-service real estate brokerage company, we promote the complementary services of our relocation and title and settlement services businesses, in addition to PHH Home Loans, LLC, our home mortgage venture with PHH Corporation. We own 49.9% of the venture and PHH owns the remaining 50.1%. We believe we are the most integrated brokerage company and our services enhance the customer experience.

When we assist the seller in a real estate transaction, our sales associates generally provide the seller with a full service marketing program, which may include developing a direct marketing plan for the property, assisting the seller in pricing the property and preparing it for sale, listing it on multiple listing services, advertising the property (including on web sites), showing the property to prospective buyers, assisting the seller in sale negotiations, and assisting the seller in preparing for closing the transaction. When we assist the buyer in a real estate transaction, our sales associates generally help the buyer in locating specific properties that meet the buyer’s personal and financial specifications, show properties to the buyer, assist the buyer in negotiating (where permissible) and in preparing for closing the transaction.

We operate approximately 87% of our offices under the Coldwell Banker brand name, approximately 3% of our offices under the ERA brand name, approximately 6% of our offices under The Corcoran Group brand name and approximately 4% of our offices under the Sotheby’s International Realty brand name. Our offices are geographically diverse with a strong presence in the lucrative east and west coast areas, where home prices are generally higher. We operate our Coldwell Banker offices in numerous regions throughout the country, our ERA offices in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, our Corcoran Group offices in New York City, the Hamptons (New York), and Palm Beach, Florida and our Sotheby’s International Realty offices in several regions throughout the country.

 

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We believe that the markets in which we operate generally function independently from one another. Our geographically diverse portfolio of brokerage operations could mitigate some of the impact of local or regional changes in the real estate market. The following table provides information about the various regions we serve:

 

Major Geographic Regions

   % of NRT 2005
Revenue
   

2005

Average

Home Sale Price

Midwest

   15.5 %   $ 278,253

Southern California

   15.0 %   $ 928,393

Northern California

   11.9 %   $ 801,928

Florida

   11.8 %   $ 385,460

Tri-State excluding New York City

   11.1 %   $ 555,717

Mid-Atlantic

   7.4 %   $ 361,743

New England

   7.2 %   $ 432,899

New York City

   6.0 %   $ 1,074,061

Sotheby’s International Realty (all locations)

   5.6 %   $ 1,401,649

All other (a)

   8.5 %   $ 265,306
            

Total

   100.0 %   $ 470,538

(a) Includes Denver, Utah, Arizona, Hawaii, Atlanta and Pittsburgh

We intend to grow our business both organically and through strategic acquisitions. To grow organically, we will focus on working with office managers to recruit, retain and develop effective sales associates that can successfully engage and earn fees from new clients. We will continue to shift from traditional print media marketing to technology media marketing. We also plan to open new offices while monitoring expenses to increase efficiencies.

We have a dedicated group of professionals whose function is to identify, evaluate and complete acquisitions. We are continuously evaluating acquisitions that will allow us to enter into new markets and to expand our market share in existing markets through smaller “tuck-in” acquisitions. Following completion of an acquisition, we consolidate the newly acquired operations with our existing operations. By consolidating operations, we reduce or eliminate duplicative costs, such as advertising, rent and administrative support. By utilizing our existing infrastructure to support a broader network of sales associates and revenue base, we can enhance the profitability of our operations. We also seek to enhance the profitability of newly acquired operations by increasing the productivity of the acquired brokerages’ sales associates. We provide these sales associates with specialized tools, training and resources that are often unavailable at smaller firms, such as access to sophisticated information technology and ongoing technical support; increased advertising and marketing support; relocation referrals, and a wide offering of brokerage-related services. In 2005, we acquired 32 real estate brokerage companies.

Our real estate brokerage business has a contract with Cartus under which the brokerage business provides brokerage services to relocating employees of the clients of Cartus. When receiving a referral from Cartus, our brokerage business seeks to assist the buyer in completing a home sale. Upon completion of a home sale, we receive a commission on the purchase or sale of the property but are obligated to pay Cartus a portion of such commission as a referral fee. We believe that these fees are comparable to the fees charged by other relocation companies.

In connection with Cendant’s January 2005 spin-off of its mortgage and fleet management business, PHH Corporation, we formed a venture with PHH, named PHH Home Loans, LLC, for the purpose of originating and selling mortgage loans primarily to clients of our company owned residential real estate brokerage and relocation businesses. We own 49.9% of the venture and PHH owns 50.1%. As a result, our financial results only reflect our

 

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proportionate share of the venture’s results of operations which are recorded on the equity method. The venture has a 50-year term, subject to earlier termination upon the occurrence of certain events or at our election at any time after January 31, 2015 by providing two years’ notice to PHH. PHH may terminate the venture upon the occurrence of certain events or, at its option, after January 31, 2030. All mortgage loans originated by the venture are sold to PHH or other third party investors, and PHH Home Loans does not hold any mortgage loans for investment purposes or perform servicing functions for any loans it originates. Accordingly, we have no mortgage servicing rights asset risk. PHH Home Loans is the exclusive recommended provider of mortgages for our company owned real estate brokerage business.

Relocation Services

Through our subsidiary, Cartus, we offer a broad range of employee relocation services. We assist in over 120,000 relocations in over 140 countries annually for over 1,200 active clients including nearly two-thirds of the Fortune 50, as well as government agencies and affinity organizations. Our relocation services business operates in six global service centers on four continents and is the largest U.S. and a leading global provider of outsourced employee relocation services.

We primarily offer corporate and government clients employee relocation services, such as:

 

  home-sale assistance, including the evaluation, inspection, purchasing and selling of a transferee’s home, the issuance of home equity advances to transferees permitting them to purchase a new home before selling their current home (these advances are generally guaranteed by the corporate client), certain home management services, assistance in locating a new home and closing on the sale of the old home, generally at the instruction of the client;

 

  expense processing, relocation policy counseling, relocation related accounting, including international compensation administration, and other consulting services;

 

  arranging household goods moving services, with over 70,000 domestic and international shipments in 2005, and providing support for all aspects of moving a transferee’s household goods, including the handling of insurance and claim assistance, invoice auditing and quality control;

 

  visa and immigration support, intercultural and language training and expatriation/ repatriation counseling and destination services; and

 

  group move management services providing coordination for moves involving a large number of transferees to or from a specific regional area over a short period of time.

The wide range of our services allows our high quality clients to outsource their entire relocation programs to us. We believe we provide our relocation clients with exceptional service. As a result, our top 25 relocation clients have an average tenure of 15 years with us.

Under relocation services contracts with our clients, home sale services are divided into two types, “at risk” and “no risk.” Approximately 88% of our home sale services are provided under “no risk” contracts. Under these contracts, the client pays a fee for the relocation service and is responsible for payment of all direct expenses associated with the home sale. Such expenses include, but are not limited to, appraisal, inspection and real estate brokerage commissions. The client also bears the risk of loss on the sale of the transferee’s home. We pay all of these expenses and generally fund them on behalf of the client. When we fund these expenses, the client then reimburses us for those costs plus interest charges on the advanced money. This limits our exposure on “no risk” home sale services to the credit risk of our corporate clients rather than to the potential fluctuations in the real estate market or to the creditworthiness of the individual transferring employee. Due to the credit quality of our corporate clients and our history with such losses, we believe such risk is minimal.

For all U.S. federal government agency clients and a limited number of corporate clients, we provide an “at risk” home sale service in conjunction with the other services we provide. These “at risk” transactions represent

 

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approximately 12% of our total home sale transactions. The “at risk” fee for these transactions is a fixed fee based on a percentage of the value of the underlying property, and is significantly larger than the fee under the “no risk” home sale service because we pay for all direct expenses (acquisition, selling and carrying costs) associated with the home sale, including potential losses on the sale of the home. We do not speculate in the real estate market nor is it our intention to profit on any appreciation in home values. Since we move to dispose of the homes at risk immediately, we limit our exposure to fluctuations in home values. In 2005, approximately 60% of our “at risk” homes were “amended sales,” meaning a third party buyer is under contract at the time we become the owner of the home. This reduces our risk of a decrease in the home’s value. Net resale losses as a percentage of the purchase price of “at risk” homes has averaged approximately 2% over the last three years, which are more than offset by the premium we charge for an “at risk” home sale.

Under all relocation services contracts (regardless of whether the client utilizes the “no risk” or “at risk” home sale service), clients are responsible for payment of all other direct costs associated with the relocation, including, but not limited to, costs to move household goods, mortgage origination points, temporary living and travel expenses. We process all of these expenses and generally fund them on behalf of the client. When we fund these expenses, the client reimburses us for those costs plus interest charges on the advanced money. The exposure for the non-home sale related direct expenses is limited to the credit risk of the corporate clients. We have experienced virtually no credit losses, net of recoveries, over the last three years.

Substantially all of our contracts with our relocation clients are terminable at any time at the option of the client. If a client terminates its contract, we will only be compensated for all services performed up to the time of termination and reimbursed for all expenses incurred to the time of termination.

Regardless of whether the client utilizes the “no risk” or “at risk” home sale service, we also earn commissions from real estate brokers, van lines and other suppliers who provide services to the transferee. The commissions earned allow us pricing flexibility for the fees we charge our clients. We have created the Cartus Broker Network, which is a network of real estate brokers consisting of our company owned brokerage operations, some of our franchisees who have chosen to become members and independent real estate brokers. Member brokers of the Cartus Broker Network receive referrals from our relocation services business in exchange for a referral fee. The Cartus Broker Network closed over 70,000 properties in 2005. We derive about 6% of our relocation revenue from referrals within our Cartus Broker Network.

About 6% of our relocation revenue is derived from our affinity services, which provide real estate and relocation services, including home buying and selling assistance, as well as mortgage assistance and moving services, to organizations such as insurance companies, credit unions and airline companies that have established members. Often these organizations offer our affinity services to their members at no cost and, where permitted, provide their members with a financial incentive for using these services. This service helps the organizations attract new members and retain current members. In 2005, we provided personal assistance to over 68,000 individuals, with approximately 30,000 real estate transactions.

Title and Settlement Services

Our title and settlement services business, Title Resource Group, provides full-service title and settlement (i.e., closing and escrow) services to real estate companies and financial institutions. We are licensed in 37 states and operate mostly in major metropolitan areas. We have approximately 500 offices, 350 of which are co-located with one of our company owned brokerage offices.

We act in the capacity of a title agent and sell title insurance to property buyers and mortgage lenders. We issue title insurance policies on behalf of large national underwriters and through our title insurance venture called Censtar as well as through our wholly owned underwriter, Title Resources Guaranty Company, which we acquired in January 2006. These policies are issued by our wholly and partially owned agency operations that are licensed in 37 states and Washington, D.C., with physical locations in 24 states. For policies issued through our agency operations, we typically are liable only for the first $5,000 of loss for such policies on a per claim basis.

 

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Virtually all lenders require their borrowers to obtain title insurance policies at the time mortgage loans are made on real property. Title insurance policies state the terms and conditions upon which a title underwriter will insure title to real property. Such policies are issued on the basis of a preliminary report or commitment. Such reports are prepared after, among others, a search of public records, maps and other relevant documents to ascertain title ownership and the existence of easements, restrictions, rights of way, conditions, encumbrances or other matters affecting the title to, or use of, real property. To facilitate the preparation of preliminary reports, copies of public records, maps and other relevant historical documents are compiled and indexed in a title plant. We subscribe to title information services provided by title plants owned and operated by independent entities to assist us in the preparation of preliminary title reports. In addition, we own, lease or participate with other title insurance companies or agents in the cooperative operation of such plants.

The terms and conditions upon which the real property will be insured are determined in accordance with the standard policies and procedures of the title underwriter. When our title agencies sell title insurance, the title search and examination function is performed by the agent. The title agent and underwriter split the premium. The amount of such premium “split” is determined by agreement between the agency and underwriter, or is promulgated by state law. We have entered into underwriting agreements with various underwriters, which state the conditions under which we may issue a title insurance policy on their behalf.

Our company owned brokerage operations are the principal source of our title and settlement services business. Other sources of our title and settlement services business include our real estate franchise business, Cartus and PHH Corporation’s mortgage company. Over the past several years, we have increased the geographic coverage of our title and settlement services business principally through acquisitions. When we acquire a title and settlement services business, we typically retain the local brand identity of the acquired business. Our acquisition transactions are often conducted in connection with an acquisition of a brokerage company for our company owned brokerage operations. As a result, many of our offices have subleased space from, and are co-located within, our company owned brokerage offices, a strategy that has proved to be instrumental in improving our capture rates. We have improved the capture rates of our title and settlement services business from 42% in 2003 to 48% in 2005.

Certain states in which we operate have “controlled business” statutes which impose limitations on affiliations between providers of title and settlement services, on the one hand, and real estate brokers, mortgage lenders and other real estate service providers, on the other hand. For example, in California, a title insurer/agent cannot rely on more than 50% of its title orders from “controlled business sources,” which is defined as sources controlled by, or which control, directly or directly, the title insurer/agent, which would include leads generated by our company owned brokerage business. In those states in which we operate our title and settlement services business that have “controlled business” statutes, we comply with such statutes by ensuring that we generate sufficient business from sources we do not control, including sources in which we own a minority ownership interest.

We perform title and settlement services in connection with the mortgage lending business, primarily that of PHH Mortgage. As a result of strong refinancing activity in the past few years, such business has had a material impact on our operating results. In 2003, refinance business contributed 25% of the EBITDA of our title and settlement services business. As interest rates have risen in 2005, however, refinance business represented only 12% of the EBITDA of our title and settlement services business, a level that we believe represents a more normalized level of refinance business we can expect to continue going forward.

In January 2006, we completed our acquisition of American Title Company of Houston, Texas American Title Company and their related title companies based in Texas, including Dallas-based Title Resources Guaranty Company (“TRGC”), a title insurance underwriting business, for $93 million in cash plus a $10 million (subject to potential downward adjustment) note payable to the seller within two years of the closing date of the acquisition. TRGC is a title insurance underwriter licensed in Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Kansas. We anticipate that TRGC will underwrite a portion of the title insurance policies issued by our agency businesses.

 

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We also manage a national network of escrow and closing agents (some of whom are our employees, while others are attorneys in private practice) to provide full-service title and settlement services to a broad-based group that includes lenders, home buyers and sellers, developers, and real estate agents. Our role is generally that of an intermediary managing the completion of all the necessary documentation and services required to complete a real estate transaction.

We derive revenue through fees charged in real estate transactions for rendering the services described above as well as a percentage of the title premium on each title insurance policy sold. We provide many of these services in connection with our residential and commercial real estate brokerage and relocation operations. Fees for escrow and closing services are separate and distinct from premiums paid for title insurance and other real-estate services.

We intend to grow our title and settlement services business through the completion of additional acquisitions (including, possibly, acquisitions using Realogy common stock as currency), by increasing the number of title and settlement services offices that are located in or around our company owned brokerage offices and by increasing our capture rates. We also intend to grow by leveraging our existing geographic coverage, scale, capabilities and reputation into new offices not directly connected with our company owned brokerage offices and through entering into contracts and ventures with our franchisees that will allow them to participate in the title and settlement services business. We will integrate our recent acquisition of American Title Company of Houston, Texas American Title Company, TRGC and their related title companies to expand underwriting activities into other states.

Competition

Real Estate Franchise Business .  Competition among the national real estate brokerage brand franchisors to grow their franchise systems is intense. Our largest national competitors in this industry include, but are not limited to, The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., GMAC Home Services, Inc. and RE/MAX International, Inc. In addition, a real estate broker may choose to affiliate with a regional chain or choose not to affiliate with a franchisor but to remain independent. We believe that competition for the sale of franchises in the real estate brokerage industry is based principally upon the perceived value and quality of the brand and services offered to franchisees.

The ability of our real estate brokerage franchisees to compete is important to our prospects for growth. The ability of an individual franchisee to compete may be affected by the quality of its sales associates, the location of its office, the services provided to its sales associates, the number of competing offices in the vicinity, its affiliation with a recognized brand name, community reputation and other factors. A franchisee’s success may also be affected by general, regional and local economic conditions. The potential negative effect of these conditions on our results of operations is generally reduced by virtue of the diverse geographical locations of our franchisees. At December 31, 2005, our combined real estate franchise systems had approximately 9,200 brokerage offices in the United States and approximately 15,000 offices worldwide. The real estate franchise systems have offices in 59 countries and territories in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia.

Real Estate Brokerage Business .  The real estate brokerage industry is highly competitive, particularly in the metropolitan areas in which our owned brokerage business operates. In addition, the industry has relatively low barriers to entry for new participants, including participants pursuing non-traditional methods of marketing real estate, such as Internet-based listing services. Companies compete for sales and marketing business primarily on the basis of services offered, reputation, personal contacts, and brokerage commissions. We compete primarily with franchisees of local and regional real estate franchisors; franchisees of our brands and of other national real estate franchisors, such as The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., GMAC Home Services, Inc. and RE/MAX International, Inc.; regional independent real estate organizations, such as Weichert Realtors and Long & Foster Real Estate; discount brokerages, such as ZipRealty; and smaller niche companies competing in local areas.

 

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Relocation Business .  Competition in our relocation business is based on service, quality and price. We compete with global and regional outsourced relocation services providers, human resource outsourcing companies, and international accounting firms. These human resource outsourcing companies may own or have relationships with other relocation companies. For example, Hewitt Associates, a large human resource outsourcing company, owns its own relocation company. Other human resource outsourcing companies may be seeking to acquire relocation companies or develop preferred relationships with our competitors. The larger outsourced relocation services providers that we compete with include Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services Inc., Sirva, Inc. and Weichert Relocation Resources, Inc.

Title and Settlement Services .  The title and settlement services business is highly competitive and fragmented. The number and size of competing companies vary in the different areas in which we conduct business. We compete with other title insurers, title agents and vendor management companies. While we are an agent for some of the large insurers, we also compete with the owned agency operations of these insurers. These national competitors include Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, Land America Financial Group, Inc., Stewart Title Guaranty Company, First American Title Insurance Company and Old Republic Title Company. In addition, numerous agency operations and small underwriters provide competition on the local level.

Marketing and Technology

National Advertising Fund

Each of our residential brands operates a National Advertising Fund and our commercial brand operates a Commercial Marketing Fund that is funded by our franchisees and our owned real estate brokerage operations. We are the largest contributor to each of these funds, either through commitments through our contracts with our franchisees or by our agreements with our company owned real estate brokerage operations. The focus of the National Advertising Funds is as follows:

Build and Maintain Strong Consumer Brands

The primary focus of each National Advertising Fund is to build and maintain brand awareness. This is primarily accomplished through television, radio and print advertising. Our Internet presence, for the most part, features our entire listing inventory in our regional and national markets, plus community profiles, home buying and selling advice, relocation tips and mortgage financing information. Each brand manages a comprehensive system of marketing tools, systems and sales information and data that can be accessed through free standing brand intranet sites, to assist sales associates in becoming the best marketer of their listings. In addition to the Sotheby’s International Realty brand, a leading luxury brand, our franchisees and our company owned brokerages also participate in luxury marketing programs, such as Century 21 Fine Homes & Estates SM , Coldwell Banker Previews ® , and ERA International Collection ® .

Drive Customers to Brand Websites

According to NAR, 70% of all homebuyers used the Internet in connection with their search for a new home in 2005. Our marketing and technology strategies focus on capturing this consumer and assisting in their purchase. Internet, print, radio and television advertising are used by the brands to drive consumers to their respective websites. Significant focus is placed on developing each website to create value to the real estate consumer. Each website focuses on streamlined, easy search processes for listing inventory and rich descriptive details and multiple photos to market the listing on the brand website. Additionally, each brand website serves as a national distribution point for sales associates to market themselves to consumers, creating a positive customer experience.

Proprietary Technology

In addition to the websites, each brand focuses on technology initiatives that increase value to the customer and the franchisee. Beginning in 2005, we began rolling out SearchRouter and LeadRouter. The two technologies complement each other and serve to drive traffic back to our franchisees and our company owned real estate

 

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brokerage operations. SearchRouter is a proprietary technology that passes the search criteria from one of our national websites to local franchisees’ websites, thereby delivering all local listings from all real estate companies in a particular area. This permits us to deliver more listings to the consumer than any other national real estate competitor. The second proprietary system, LeadRouter, patent pending, works with each brand’s national website to deliver Internet consumer leads directly to a sales associate’s cellular phone in real time, which dramatically increases the sales associate’s response rate and response time to the consumer.

Company Owned Brokerage Operations

Our company owned real estate brokerage business markets our real estate services and specific real estate listings primarily through individual property signage, the Internet, and by hosting open houses of our listings for potential buyers to view in person during an appointed time period. In addition, contacts and communication with other real estate agents, targeted direct mailings, and local print media, including newspapers and real estate publications, are effective for certain price points and geographical locations. Television (spot cable commercials), radio 10-second spots in select markets, and “out-of-home” (i.e., billboards, train station posters) advertisements are also included in many of our companies’ marketing strategies.

Our sales associates at times choose to supplement our marketing with specialized programs they fund on their own. We provide our sales associates with promotional templates and materials which may be customized for this opportunity.

In addition to our Sotheby’s International Realty offices, we also participate in luxury marketing programs established by our franchisors, such as Coldwell Banker Previews and the ERA International Collection. The programs provide special services for buyers and sellers of luxury homes, with attached logos to differentiate the properties. Our sales associates are offered the opportunity to receive specific training and certification in their respective luxury properties marketing program. Properties listed in the program are highlighted through specific:

 

    signage displaying the appropriate logo;

 

    features in the appropriate section on the company Internet site;

 

    targeted mailings to prospective purchasers using specific mailing lists; and

 

    collateral marketing material, magazines and brochures highlighting the property.

The utilization of information technology as a marketing tool has become increasingly effective in our industry, and we believe that trend will continue to increase. Accordingly, we have sought to become a leader among residential real estate brokerage firms in the use and application of technology. The key features of our approach are as follows:

 

    The integration of our information systems with multiple listing services to:

 

  o provide property information on a substantial number of listings, including those of our competitors when possible to do so;

 

  o integrate with our systems to provide current data for other proprietary technology within our company, such as contact management technology.

 

    The placement of our company listings on multiple web sites, including:

 

  o our NRT operating companies’ local web sites;

 

  o the appropriate brand web site(s) (coldwellbanker.com, era.com and sothebysrealty.com);

 

  o Openhouse.com, Realogy’s multi-branded web site designed specifically for promoting open houses; and

 

  o Realtor.com, the official web site of NAR, by enhancing our presence with additional investments in the web site’s featured home product, presenting certain properties in a featured spot on the search parameter page.

 

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The majority of these web sites provide the opportunity for the customer to utilize different features, allowing them to investigate community information, view property information and print feature sheets on those properties, receive on-line updates, obtain mapping and property tours for open houses, qualify for financing, review the qualifications of our sales associates, receive home buying and selling tips, and view information on our local sales offices. The process usually begins with the browsing consumer providing search parameters to narrow their property viewing experience. Wherever possible, we provide at least six photographs of the property and/or a virtual tour in order to make the selection process as complete as possible. To make readily available the robust experience on our web sites, we utilize paid web search engine advertising as a source for our Internet consumers.

Most importantly, the browsing customer has the ability to contact us regarding their particular interest and receive a rapid response through our proprietary LeadRouter system. Through this program, Internet queries are transferred electronically to our sales associates within a matter of seconds, enabling the consumer to receive the information they desire, including an appointment with our sales associate in a timely manner.

Our sales associates have the ability to access professional support and information through various extranet sites in order to perform their tasks more efficiently. An example of this is the nationwide availability of a current “Do Not Call List” to assist them in the proper telemarketing of their services.

Employees

At December 31, 2005, we had approximately 15,000 employees, including approximately 400 employees outside of the United States. None of our employees are subject to collective bargaining agreements governing their employment with our company. We believe that our employee relations are good.

Sales Associate Recruiting and Training

Each real estate franchise system encourages, and provides some assistance and training with respect to, sales associate recruiting by franchisees. Each system separately develops its own branded recruiting programs that are tailored to the needs of its franchisees.

We encourage our franchisees to recruit sales associates by selectively offering forgivable financing arrangements to franchisees that add sales associates in the early stages of their franchise relationship with us. We typically present these opportunities to unaffiliated brokerages upon conversion to a franchise and when existing franchisees open offices in new markets. For example, a new franchisee may be granted 60 days from the date its brokerage is opened and operating as a franchised business to recruit sales associates in order to increase the opportunity for additional gross revenue that is used as the basis for determining the amount of the forgivable financing arrangement. We will only provide incentives on additional gross commission income from sales associates who were not previously associated with one of our other franchise systems during the past six months.

Each real estate brand provides training and marketing-related materials to its franchisees to assist them in the recruiting process. While we never participate in the selection, interviewing, hiring or termination of franchisee sales associates (and do not provide any advice regarding the structure of the employment or contractor relationship), the common goal of each program is to provide the broker with the information and techniques to help the broker grow their business through sales associate recruitment.

Each system’s recruiting program contains different materials and delivery methods. The marketing materials range from a detailed description of the services offered by our franchise system (which will be available to the sales associate) in brochure or poster format to audio tape lectures from industry experts. Live instructors at conventions and orientation seminars deliver some recruiting modules while other modules can be viewed by brokers anywhere in the world through virtual classrooms over the Internet. Most of the programs and materials are then made available in electronic form to franchisees over the respective system’s private intranet site. Many of the materials are customizable to allow franchisees to achieve a personalized look and feel and make modifications to certain content as appropriate for their business and marketplace.

 

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Properties and Facilities

Corporate Headquarters.   Our corporate headquarters is located in leased offices at One Campus Drive in Parsippany, New Jersey. The lease expires in 2013 and can be renewed at our option for an additional five or ten years.

Real Estate Franchise Services .   Our real estate franchise business conducts its main operations at our leased offices at One Campus Drive in Parsippany, New Jersey. There are also leased facilities at regional offices located in Atlanta, Georgia, Mission Viejo, California, Scottsdale, Arizona and Boston, Massachusetts.

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage .   Our company owned real estate brokerage business leases over 7.3 million square feet of domestic office space under 1,410 leases. Its corporate headquarters are located at 339 Jefferson Road, Parsippany, New Jersey pursuant to leases expiring in 2007. It leases approximately 20 facilities serving as regional headquarters; 60 facilities serving as local administration, training facilities or storage, and nearly 1,100 offices under approximately 1,200 leases serving as brokerage sales offices. These offices are generally located in shopping centers and small office parks, generally with lease terms of five years. In addition, there are 14 leases representing vacant office space, principally as a result of acquisition-related brokerage sales office consolidations.

Relocation Services .   Our relocation business has its main corporate operations in a leased building in Danbury, Connecticut with a lease term expiring in 2015. There are also five leased regional offices located in Mission Viejo and Walnut Creek, California; Chicago, Illinois; Irving, Texas and Bethesda, Maryland, which provide operation support services. International offices are leased in Swindon and Hammersmith, United Kingdom; Melbourne, Australia; Hong Kong and Singapore.

Title and Settlement Services Business .   Our title and settlement services business conducts its main operations at a leased facility in Mount Laurel, New Jersey pursuant to a lease expiring in 2014. This business also has leased regional and branch offices in 23 states and the District of Columbia.

We believe that all of our properties and facilities are well maintained.

Government Regulation

Franchise Regulation.   The sale of franchises is regulated by various state laws, as well as by the Federal Trade Commission (the “FTC”). The FTC requires that franchisors make extensive disclosure to prospective franchisees but does not require registration. A number of states require registration or disclosure in connection with franchise offers and sales. In addition, several states have “franchise relationship laws” or “business opportunity laws” that limit the ability of the franchisor to terminate franchise agreements or to withhold consent to the renewal or transfer of these agreements. While our franchising operations have not been materially adversely affected by such existing regulation, we cannot predict the effect of any future federal or state legislation or regulation. Our franchisors may engage in certain lending transactions common in their respective industries and provide loans to franchisees as part of the sale of the franchise. Such transactions may require the franchisor to register under a law in California governing business lenders.

Real Estate Regulation.   The federal Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (“RESPA”) and state real estate brokerage laws restrict payments which real estate brokers, title agencies, mortgage brokers and other settlement service providers may receive or pay in connection with the sales of residences and referral of settlement services (e.g., mortgages, homeowners insurance and title insurance). Such laws may to some extent restrict preferred alliance and other arrangements involving our real estate franchise, real estate brokerage, settlement services and relocation businesses. Currently, there are local efforts in certain states, which could limit referral fees to our relocation business. In addition, with respect to our company owned real estate brokerage, relocation and title and settlement services businesses, RESPA and similar state laws require timely disclosure of certain relationships or financial interests with providers of real estate settlement services.

 

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Our company owned real estate brokerage business is also subject to numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations that contain general standards for and prohibitions on the conduct of real estate brokers and sales associates, including those relating to licensing of brokers and sales associates, fiduciary and agency duties, administration of trust funds, collection of commissions and advertising and consumer disclosures. Under state law, our real estate brokers have the duty to supervise and are responsible for the conduct of their brokerage business.

Regulation of Title Insurance and Settlement Services.   Each title agency underwriter and/or settlement services provider or certain employees, or all of them, are required to be licensed to issue title insurance or perform closings in states where they operate. Each state licenses and regulates title agencies/settlement service providers and underwriters through their Departments of Insurance or other regulatory body. In many states, title insurance rates are either promulgated by the state or are required to be filed with each state by the agent or underwriter, and some states promulgate the split of title insurance premiums between the agent and underwriter. States sometimes unilaterally lower the insurance rates relative to loss experience and other relevant factors. States also require title agencies and title underwriters to meet certain minimum financial requirements for net worth and working capital. In addition, each of our insurance underwriters is subject to a holding company act in its state of domicile, which regulates, among other matters, investment policies and the ability to pay dividends.

Certain states in which we operate have “controlled business” statutes which impose limitations on affiliations between providers of title and settlement services, on the one hand, and real estate brokers, mortgage lenders and other real estate service providers, on the other hand. For example, in California, a title insurer/agent cannot rely on more than 50% of its title orders from “controlled business sources,” which are defined as sources controlled by, or which control, directly or directly, the title insurer/agent.

Legal Proceedings

Legal

The following litigation relates to Cendant’s Real Estate business, and pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, we have agreed to be responsible for all of the related costs and expenses.

Frank K. Cooper Real Estate #1, Inc. v. Cendant Corp. and Century 21 Real Estate Corporation , (N.J. Super. Ct. L. Div., Morris County, New Jersey). Frank K. Cooper Real Estate #1, Inc. has filed a class action against Cendant and Cendant’s subsidiary, Century 21 Real Estate Corporation (“Century 21”). Cendant and Century 21 were served with the complaint on March 14, 2002. The class action alleges breach of certain provisions of the Real Estate Franchise Agreement entered into between Century 21 and the plaintiffs, as well as the implied duty of good faith and fair dealing, and certain express and implied fiduciary duties. On October 29, 2002, the plaintiffs filed a second amended complaint adding a count against Cendant as guarantor of Century 21’s obligations to its franchisees. In response to an order to show cause with preliminary restraints filed by the plaintiffs, the court entered a temporary restraining order limiting Century 21’s ability to seek general releases from its franchisees in franchise renewal agreements. On June 23, 2003, the court determined that the limitations on Century 21 obtaining general releases should continue with respect to renewals only. The court also ordered a supplemental notice of the progress of the litigation distributed to Century 21 franchisees.

Plaintiffs filed their motion to certify a class on October 1, 2004. The parties conducted discovery on the class certification issues. On January 31, 2006, Defendants filed their opposition to the class motion. Plaintiffs’ reply to the class motion is due by March 31, 2006. The court will hear oral argument on the motion on May 26, 2006.

Rajeev P. Shrestha v. NRT, Inc.; Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corp.; Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Company; Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Inc. (Superior Court of the State of California, County of San Diego Case Number GIC 798126). The original complaint was filed on October 15, 2002. Rajeev Shrestha has filed a class action on behalf of all buyers of real estate who paid a “Transaction Coordinator Fee”

 

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or “Documentation Compliance Fee” to Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Company at any time since October 16, 1998. Shrestha’s First Amended Complaint alleges causes of action for breach of fiduciary duty and violation of California’s Unfair Competition Law, Business and Professions Code section 17200 et seq.

The causes of action are based on the allegation that defendants would charge home buyers a “Transaction Coordinator Fee” or a “Documentation Compliance Fee” in addition to a commission on the sale. Shrestha argues that clients were misled about the nature of the fee, and also that the fee constitutes unfair “double-charging” for services. The San Diego Superior Court initially denied the plaintiffs’ motion for class certification and the appellate court reversed and remanded. On September 14, 2005, the San Diego Superior Court granted Shrestha’s renewed motion for class certification. A trial has been set for September 8, 2006. Mediation is scheduled for the week of April 17, 2006.

Berger v. Property ID Corp., et al. , (CV 05-5373 GHK (CTx) (U.S.D.C., C.D. Cal.)). The original complaint was filed on July 25, 2005. Mark Berger filed an amended, class action lawsuit against Cendant, Century 21 Real Estate Corporation, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Company, and related entities, among other defendants, who are parties to joint venture agreements with Property I.D. Corporation, which markets and sells natural hazard disclosure reports in the state of California. The First Amended Complaint alleged violations of RESPA, which prohibits direct or indirect kickbacks from real estate settlement service providers for the referral of business to other providers, and further alleged unlawful business practices under the California Business and Professions Code. Berger primarily alleges that the joint ventures are sham arrangements that unlawfully receive kickbacks or referral fees in exchange for business.

On November 23, 2005 the Court granted Defendants’ motion to dismiss the First Amended Complaint on the ground that Berger inadequately pled equitable tolling and equitable estoppel. On December 7, 2005 Berger filed a Second Amended Complaint adding two additional plaintiffs and three additional defendants, including additional allegations regarding equitable estoppel and equitable tolling, and adding a breach of fiduciary duty claim against the broker defendants. On January 6, 2006, Defendants filed a motion to dismiss the revised pleading on the grounds that Berger still failed to adequately plead equitable tolling and estoppel and failed to obtain Court approval to add new parties, which motion was denied. Defendants’ motion to bifurcate discovery into two phases, class discovery and merits discovery, is pending before the Court.

Theresa Boschee v. Burnet Title, Inc., (Civil File No. 03-16986, Hennepin County District Court, Minneapolis, Minnesota). Burnet Title, Inc. (“Burnet”) was the settlement agent in connection with the closing of a mortgage transaction for plaintiff on November 1, 1999. Among the fees that Burnet charged plaintiff for its work were a plat/inspection report fee, an assessment fee, and courier fees (collectively, the “Challenged Fees”). On October 17, 2003, plaintiff filed this action in Minnesota state court alleging that the Challenged Fees were excessive and/or duplicative fees. Plaintiff alleged that by charging and collecting the Challenged Fees, Burnet had violated the Minnesota Consumer Fraud Act and the Minnesota Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and had committed common law conversion. Burnet denied plaintiff’s allegations. By order entered on May 18, 2005, the court granted plaintiff’s motion for class certification, and certified a plaintiff class consisting of all persons who, during the time period from January 26, 1994 through the present, (a) were charged one or more of the three Challenged Fees, or other similarly named fee and (b) were charged more than Burnet paid to a third-party service provider for such services. Notice has not yet been sent to the class.

On March 8, 2006, a settlement was reached that includes us, Edina Title Services and Universal Title Company and their pending class action matters pending in Minnesota on the same Challenged Fees. The three-party settlement must be approved by the court and the settlement will then be administered.

This state court matter follows a similar action brought by this plaintiff alleging that certain fees which she had been charged in connection with the refinancing of her home mortgage, a plat/inspection fee, an assessment fee and courier fees, violated section 8(b) of the RESPA. Plaintiff also alleged pendant state law claims for conversion and violation of the Minnesota Consumer Fraud Act and the Minnesota Deceptive Trade Practices Act. On August 2, 2001, the Court certified this matter as a class action. On October 3, 2003, the Court dismissed

 

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the RESPA claim pursuant to the Haug decision, which holds that the mark-up of these kinds of fees by title companies does not violate RESPA. The Court decided that the Class’s state claims should be resolved in state court. Accordingly, plaintiff filed the referenced state court matter.

Leflore County, Mississippi Cases (Civil Action No. 2003-115-CICI, Leflore County, Mississippi). Between June 18, 2003, and August 31, 2004, 30 civil actions were commenced in the State Courts of Leflore County, Mississippi against Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation, and others. Two of these actions have been removed to Federal Court. Plaintiffs allege fraud among the Defendants in connection with the purchase of approximately 90 homes in Leflore County. Specifically, Plaintiffs allege that Defendants made false representations to each Plaintiff regarding the value and/or condition of the properties, which false representations led Plaintiffs to borrow money, at unreasonable rates and with the aid of false documentation, to purchase the properties. Plaintiffs seek actual damages ranging in amounts from $100,000 to $500,000, an unspecified amount of punitive damages, attorneys’ fees and costs. Coldwell Banker aggressively has pursued discovery from the Plaintiffs; sought severance of Plaintiffs’ claims, one from another; and the dismissal of Plaintiffs’ claims due to their failure to cooperate in discovery and comply with the Court’s orders regarding discovery. On July 18, 2005, and again on September 19, 2005, the Court conducted hearings on Coldwell Banker’s Motions to Dismiss. At the conclusion of these hearings, the Court took the Motions to Dismiss under advisement, and, to date, has not ruled on the Motions.

Prior to the July 18, 2005 hearing on Coldwell Banker’s Motions to Dismiss the State Court actions, the same Plaintiffs, and about 30 others, commenced a series of parallel actions in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi. Between July 18, 2005 and July 29, 2005, 21 civil actions were commenced in Federal Court alleging the same state law fraud and misrepresentation claims as were alleged in the prior-filed State Court actions, as well as claims arising under the Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (“RICO”), 18 U.S.C. § 1964, et seq . Coldwell Banker timely filed Motions to Dismiss these Federal actions due to Plaintiffs’ failure to state any viable RICO claims and a lack of federal jurisdiction over Plaintiffs’ State law fraud and misrepresentation claims. On March 20, 2006 in four RICO motions, Coldwell Banker’s Motions to Dismiss were denied. On March 27, 2006 Coldwell Banker filed Motions for Reconsideration of those denials. Plaintiffs have represented to the Court that if Federal jurisdiction is present over these actions, Plaintiffs will dismiss their State Court actions. Consequently, Plaintiffs have sought a stay of the State Court proceedings pending a ruling on Coldwell Banker’s Motions to Dismiss the Federal actions. The Court has held a Case Management Conference with all of the parties, entered Scheduling Orders, and has set the first case for trial, commencing on January 14, 2008. Currently, the parties are engaged in the initial stages of discovery.

Additionally, on January 11, 2005, a putative class action was commenced in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi relating to the same allegations of fraud and misrepresentation in connection with the purchase of residential real estate in Leflore County, Mississippi. Specifically, Plaintiffs have sought certification of a class consisting of the following: “All persons who purchased or sold property within the state of Mississippi while utilizing the services of Coldwell Banker First Greenwood Leflore Realty, Inc., who were misled about the value or condition of the property, or who were misled by Coldwell Banker or its agents concerning the sales price of the real property, or who were promised repairs and/or renovations to the property which were not made or completed, or who, with the active involvement of Coldwell Banker or its agents entered into loans, secured by collateral in the form of real property, who were charged excessive and/or unnecessary fees, charges and related expenses.” The Class Complaint asserts claims for false advertising, breach of fiduciary duty, misrepresentation, deceptive sales practices, fraudulent concealment, fraud in the inducement, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligent infliction of emotional distress, breach of public policy, negligence, gross negligence, and fraud. The Class Complaint seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, attorneys’ fees and costs. On March 31, 2005, Plaintiffs filed a Motion for Class Certification. On April 15, 2005, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation filed its Opposition to Plaintiffs’ Motion for Class Certification. To date, the Court has not ruled on Plaintiffs’ Motion for Class Certification, however, the Court has entered an order staying all discovery pending a ruling on this Motion.

 

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Jim L. Pruett, Bobby Fischer, John William Emory, III, Joni Goss, Ernest Wayne White, Jr. and Daniel Floyd were indicted for their alleged roles in a scheme to submit false information to obtain mortgages. Specifically, they were indicted for wire fraud, mail fraud or conspiring to commit these crimes. Fischer, White, Goss and Pruett entered guilty pleas on January 13, 2006 and are scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Wingate on April 3, 2006. Jim L. Pruett was the secretary of Greenwood Leflore Realty, Inc., which was Coldwell Banker’s franchisee.

Donna J. Fonnotto, v. Cendant Settlement Services Group, Inc., NRT Settlement Services, Inc. and St. Joe Title Services, Inc. d/b/a Sunbelt Title Agency (Case No. 8:05-CV-02155, Pinellas County Florida). The original complaint was filed on June 21, 2005. Plaintiff was formerly an employee of the defendant Sunbelt Title Agency and individually, and on behalf of other similarly situated, alleges the defendant did not pay her, and others similarly situated, the appropriate amount of wages. Discovery is currently in process.

Real Share International, Inc. et al. v. Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation (Case No. 13 114 02166 04, American Arbitration Association, Commercial Arbitration Tribunal). On September 14, 2004, Claimants Real Share International, Inc., RSI 1, Inc., and RSI 2, Inc. filed an arbitration demand against Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation (Coldwell Banker). Claimants RSI 1 and RSI 2 hold the exclusive right to the operation of a Coldwell Banker-branded residential real estate brokerage in Manhattan, under the terms of written franchise agreements with Coldwell Banker. Claimants’ demand alleged that they suffered damages as a result of breach of contract, breach of an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and tortious interference with their prospective economic advantage. Coldwell Banker responded that it had fully honored its obligations under the franchise agreements. Immediately before the hearing, Claimants abandoned their claim of tortious interference.

The parties agreed to bifurcate the liability and damage proceedings, and presented evidence to the arbitrator on liability issues in May 2005. On June 29, 2005, the arbitrator issued an Interim, Partial Award on Liability, addressing the contractual and implied covenant issues and finding liability on certain aspects of Claimants’ contractual claims. In particular, the arbitrator held that Claimants are entitled to lost net profits from Coldwell Banker on certain referrals to Claimants’ competitor. Claimants petitioned the District Court for the Southern District of New York to confirm the award and Coldwell Banker filed a cross-petition to vacate the award. The District Court confirmed the award on September 23, 2005. Coldwell Banker’s appeal to the Second Circuit is pending, with its initial brief to be filed on March 17, 2006. Meanwhile, an evidentiary hearing regarding causation and damages was held on February 6 -10, 2006. On February 22, 2006, the parties filed post hearing briefs. The parties filed reply briefs on March 13, 2006.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation v. RSI 3, Inc. and RSI 4, Inc. (Case No. 05-4459, District of New Jersey). On September 15, 2005, Plaintiff filed an action seeking declaratory judgment against the Defendants that Defendants’ limited exclusivity that prohibits Plaintiff from allowing another franchisee to operate a Coldwell Banker office in Manhattan does not include the exclusive right to receive referrals from all other Coldwell Banker franchisees. This declaratory judgment action seeks to adjudicate the dispute at issue in the Real Share arbitration referred to below with respect to the remaining franchise contracts between Coldwell Banker and Real Share. Defendants will file their answer to the complaint by March 15, 2006. On March 9, 2006, the District Court stayed all proceedings and referred the matter to mediation.

Proa, Jordan and Schiff v. NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc. d/b/a Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage et al. (Case No. 1:05-cv-02157 (AMD), U.S.D.C., District of Maryland, Northern Division). On August 8, 2005, Plaintiffs Proa and Jordan filed a lawsuit against NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc., NRT Incorporated and Angela Shearer, Branch Vice President of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage’s Chestertown, Maryland office. On October 27, 2005, Plaintiffs filed an amended complaint that includes Schiff as a plaintiff, names Sarah Sinnickson, Executive Vice President and General Sales Manager of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage as an individual defendant and asserts eight claims. Plaintiffs’ claims involve alleged conduct arising from the Plaintiffs’ affiliation with NRT’s Chestertown, Maryland office as real estate agents on an independent contractor basis. The Plaintiffs allege violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and violations of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 claiming

 

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discrimination and retaliation on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, racial heritage and/or ethnic or racial associations. The Plaintiffs are also seeking declaratory relief on behalf of themselves and a putative class that they are common law employees as opposed to independent contractors. The Plaintiffs are also alleging various breach of contract, wrongful discharge and negligent supervision claims. In addition, Plaintiffs are alleging that defendant Shearer made false and defamatory remarks about Plaintiffs Proa and Jordan to their co-workers.

The Plaintiffs are seeking compensatory and punitive damages in an amount to be determined at trial, as well as attorneys’ fees. On November 14, 2005, the Defendants filed an answer to the Plaintiffs’ amended complaint. Defendants have filed a motion to dismiss the claim for declaratory judgment based on lack of subject matter jurisdiction as well as a motion for judgment on the pleadings as to Jordan’s Title VII claim based on the statute of limitations. Plaintiffs also have agreed to voluntarily dismiss the defamation claims without prejudice. The Court has not yet entered a Scheduling Order, although one should be entered shortly.

Passen and Friedler et al v. NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc, NRT Mid-Atlantic Title Services, LLC, Cole, Miller et al. (Case No.03-C-04-005534, Baltimore County, Maryland). On June 9, 2004 the plaintiffs filed a lawsuit against NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc., NRT Mid-Atlantic Title Services, LLC, Henry Cole and other defendants. The Plaintiffs allege that the defendants obtained real estate sales commissions, to which they were not entitled, and other funds belonging to the plaintiffs. Cole is a commercial real estate agent formerly affiliated with NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc. Cole, defendant David Miller and the Plaintiffs purchased a series of commercial buildings together. NRT Mid-Atlantic Title Services, LLC provided title services for the transactions. Cole managed the properties through a separate company he controlled. The Plaintiffs allege that Cole promised to forego commissions on the purchase of the properties but secretly obtained them, thereby increasing the purchase price paid by the Plaintiffs. The Plaintiffs also allege that Cole mismanaged the properties and embezzled funds paid to the management company on the Plaintiffs’ behalf. The Plaintiffs allege that the other Defendants conspired with Cole to defraud the Plaintiffs or committed acts amounting to negligent misrepresentation and negligent hiring and supervision.

Following the dismissal of a number of claims against the Defendants in 2005, the remaining claims under the original complaint are for fraud/intentional misrepresentation (against all Defendants), negligent misrepresentation (against all Defendants), negligence (against NRT Mid-Atlantic Title Services, LLC), negligence/respondeat superior (against NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc.), negligent hiring and supervision (against NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc.), civil conspiracy (against all Defendants), breach of fiduciary duties (against Cole), breach of assignment agreement (against Cole) and for an accounting (against Cole’s management company). On December 23, 2005, the Plaintiffs served their first amended complaint adding claims against Cole’s wife and other family members, alleging that they received some of the proceeds of Cole’s alleged schemes. It also adds a count against NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc. and NRT Mid-Atlantic Title Services, LLC for aiding and abetting Cole’s alleged deceit. On March 15, 2006 the Plaintiffs served their second amended complaint adding claims against their former counsel, Richard Miller, alleging that he failed to properly represent Plaintiffs’ interests in the subject real estate transactions. Former NRT Mid-Atlantic, Inc. employees, Patricia Bart and Dennis German, were also named as defendants. Discovery is ongoing and trial is scheduled for January 15, 2007.

In Re Homestore.com Securities Litigation , No. 10-CV-11115 (MJP) (U.S.D.C., C.D. Cal.). On November 15, 2002, Cendant and Richard A. Smith, our Vice Chairman of the Board, President and Director Nominee, were added as defendants in a putative class action. The 26 other defendants in such action include Homestore.com, Inc., certain of its officers and directors and its auditors. Such action was filed on behalf of persons who purchased stock of Homestore.com (an Internet-based provider of residential real estate listings) between January 1, 2000 and December 21, 2001. The complaint in this action alleges violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Exchange Act based on purported misconduct in connection with the accounting of certain revenues in financial statements published by Homestore during the class period. On March 7, 2003, the court granted Cendant’s motion to dismiss lead plaintiff’s claim for failure to state a claim upon which relief could be granted and dismissed the complaint, as against Cendant and Mr. Smith, with prejudice. On March 8, 2004, the court entered final judgment, thus allowing for an appeal to be made regarding its decision dismissing the complaint against Cendant, Mr. Smith and others. Oral argument of the appeal took place on February 6, 2006.

 

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Additionally, from time to time, we are involved in certain other claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of our business. While the results of such claims and legal actions cannot be predicted with certainty, we do not believe based on information currently available to us that the final outcome of these proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Regulatory Proceedings

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) and the FTC are conducting a joint regulatory investigation of the activities of Property I.D. Associates, LLC (“Associates”), a joint venture between Property I.D. Corporation, Cendant Real Estate Services Group LLC and Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Corporation, an NRT subsidiary. This regulatory investigation also includes predecessor joint ventures of Associates, as well as other joint ventures formed by Property I.D. Corporation. Associates and its predecessors provide hazard reports in the California market.

HUD and the FTC have issued subpoenas seeking documents and information from Cendant, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Corporation, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, and Century 21 Real Estate Corporation. According to these subpoenas, this investigation concerns whether the activities of Associates violate RESPA, 12 U.S.C. § 2607 et seq ., and Section 5 of the Trade Commission Act, 12 U.S.C. § 45. Cendant has cooperated in the investigation, and has responded to requests for information and document requests from HUD, and document requests from the FTC. Based on the information currently available, we believe that the eventual outcome of the regulatory investigation will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

 

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MANAGEMENT

Executive Officers Following the Separation

All of our executive officers are currently officers and employees of Cendant. After the separation, none of these individuals, other than Henry R. Silverman, will continue to be employees of Cendant. The following table sets forth information as of December 31, 2005 regarding individuals who are expected to serve as our executive officers following the separation.

 

Name

   Age   

Position(s)

Henry R. Silverman

   65    Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Director Nominee

Richard A. Smith

   52    Vice Chairman of the Board, President and Director Nominee

Anthony E. Hull

   47    Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

C. Patteson Cardwell, IV

   42    Executive Vice President and General Counsel

David J. Weaving

   39    Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer

Alexander E. Perriello, III

   58    President and Chief Executive Officer, Realogy Franchise Group

Kevin J. Kelleher

   52    President and Chief Executive Officer, Cartus Corporation

Bruce Zipf

   49    President and Chief Executive Officer, NRT Incorporated

Donald J. Casey

   44    President and Chief Executive Officer, Title Resource Group

Christopher Cade

   38    Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller

Henry R. Silverman will be our Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and a director. It is expected that Mr. Silverman will step down as our Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2008, and, subject to Board approval, our Vice Chairman and President, Richard A. Smith, will assume the position of Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Silverman has been Chief Executive Officer and a director of Cendant since December 1997, as well as Chairman of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee since July 1998. It is expected that Mr. Silverman will continue as Cendant’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee until completion of the final distribution, at which time Mr. Silverman will resign from all his positions at Cendant. Mr. Silverman was President of Cendant from December 1997 until October 2004. Mr. Silverman was Chairman of the Board, Chairman of the Executive Committee and Chief Executive Officer of HFS Incorporated from May 1990 until December 1997.

Richard A. Smith will be our Vice Chairman of the Board, President and a director. Mr. Smith has been Senior Executive Vice President of Cendant since September 1998 and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Cendant’s Real Estate Services Division since December 1997. Mr. Smith was President of the Real Estate Division of HFS from October 1996 to December 1997 and Executive Vice President of Operations for HFS from February 1992 to October 1996.

Anthony E. Hull will be our Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Mr. Hull has been Executive Vice President, Finance of Cendant since October 2003. From January 1996 to September 2003, Mr. Hull served as Chief Financial Officer for DreamWorks, a diversified entertainment company. From 1990 to 1994, Mr. Hull worked in various capacities for Paramount Communications, a diversified entertainment and publishing company. From 1984 to 1990 Mr. Hull worked in investment banking at Morgan Stanley.

C. Patteson Cardwell, IV will be our Executive Vice President and General Counsel. Mr. Cardwell has been Senior Vice President, Legal responsible for all Cendant Real Estate Services Division matters since March 2000. From November 1996 to March 2000, Mr. Cardwell served as Vice President and Legal Counsel for our Coldwell Banker and Coldwell Banker Commercial brands. From May 1994 to November 1996, Mr. Cardwell was an associate and later a partner in the Law Offices of Cohen & Mohr, in Washington, D.C.

 

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David J. Weaving will be our Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer. Mr. Weaving has been Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cendant’s Real Estate Division since September 2001. From May 2001 through September 2001 he served as Vice President and Divisional Controller for Cendant’s Real Estate Division. Mr. Weaving joined Cendant in 1999 as a Vice President of Finance. From 1995 to 1999, Mr. Weaving worked in increasing roles of responsibility for Cambrex Corporation, a diversified chemical manufacturer. From 1988 to 1995 Mr. Weaving worked as an auditor for Coopers & Lybrand LLP.

Alexander E. Perriello, III will be our President and Chief Executive Officer, Realogy Franchise Group. Mr. Perriello has been President and Chief Executive Officer of the Cendant Real Estate Franchise Group since April 2004. From 1997 through 2004 he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation.

Kevin J. Kelleher will be our President and Chief Executive Officer, Cartus Corporation. Mr. Kelleher has been President and Chief Executive Officer of Cendant Mobility Services Corporation since 1997. From 1993 to 1997 he served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cendant Mobility’s destination services unit. Mr. Kelleher has also held senior leadership positions in sales, client relations, network management and strategic planning.

Bruce Zipf will be our President and Chief Executive Officer, NRT Incorporated. Mr. Zipf was named President and Chief Executive Officer for NRT in 2005. Prior to becoming President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Zipf held the role of NRT’s President and Chief Operating Officer from 2004 to 2005. From 2003 to 2004, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer for NRT responsible for the financial and administrative sectors that included acquisitions and mergers, financial planning, human resources and facilities, and from 1998 to 2003 he served as NRT’s Senior Vice President for most of NRT’s Eastern Operations. From 1996 to 1998, Mr. Zipf served as President and Chief Operating Officer for Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage—New York. Prior to entering the real estate industry, Mr. Zipf was senior audit manager for Ernst and Young.

Donald J. Casey will be our President and Chief Executive Officer, Title Resource Group. Mr. Casey has been President and Chief Executive Officer, Cendant Settlement Services Group since April 2002. From 1995 until April 2002, he served as Senior Vice President, Brands of PHH Mortgage. From 1993 to 1995 Mr. Casey served as Vice President, Government Operations of Cendant Mortgage. From 1989 to 1993 Mr. Casey served as a secondary marketing analyst for PHH Mortgage Services (prior to its acquisition by Cendant).

Christopher Cade will be our Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller. Mr. Cade has been Vice President, Corporate Finance of Cendant since 2004. From 2002 to 2004 he served as Director, Corporate Accounting and Reporting for the Public Service Enterprise Group. From 1996 to 2002, Mr. Cade served in multiple financial and accounting capacities with increasing responsibilities for Pharmacia Corporation (now owned by Pfizer Inc.) and Intermetro Industries Corporation, a subsidiary of Emerson Electric Company.

 

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Board of Directors Following the Separation

The following sets forth information with respect to those persons who are expected to serve on our Board of Directors following the completion of the separation. It is anticipated that one additional individual will be nominated prior to the completion of the separation to serve on our Board of Directors following the separation. The nominees will be presented to our sole stockholder, Cendant, for election. See “—Executive Officers Following the Separation” for Henry R. Silverman’s and Richard A Smith’s biographical information.

 

Name

   Age   

Position(s)

Henry R. Silverman

   65    Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Director Nominee

Richard A. Smith

   52    Vice Chairman of the Board, President and Director Nominee

Martin L. Edelman*

   64    Director Nominee

Kenneth Fisher

   47    Director Nominee

Cheryl D. Mills

   41    Director Nominee

Robert E. Nederlander

   72    Director Nominee

Robert W. Pittman

   52    Director Nominee

Robert F. Smith

   73    Director Nominee

* It is currently anticipated that this director nominee will serve on the board of directors of one of the other separated companies.

Martin E. Edelman will become a director. Mr. Edelman has been a director of Cendant since December 1997 and was a director of HFS Incorporated from November 1993 until December 1997. It is expected that Mr. Edelman will continue as a Cendant director until completion of the final distribution, at which time Mr. Edelman will resign as a director of Cendant. Mr. Edelman has been Of Counsel to Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker, LLP, a New York City law firm since June 2000. Mr. Edelman was a partner with Battle Fowler, which merged with Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker, from 1972 through 1993 and was Of Counsel to Battle Fowler from 1994 until June 2000. Mr. Edelman also serves as a Director of the following corporations which file reports pursuant to the Exchange Act: Capital Trust, Arcadia Realty Trust and Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc.

Kenneth Fisher will become a director. Mr. Fisher has been a Senior Partner in Fisher Brothers, a New York City commercial real estate firm, since April 2003, and was a partner of Fisher Brothers from 1991 to April 2003. Mr. Fisher has been the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fisher House Foundation, Inc., a not-for-profit organization that constructs homes for families of hospitalized military personnel and veterans, since May 2003, and served as Vice Chairman of Fisher House Foundation from May 2001 to May 2003. Mr. Fisher is a 26-year veteran in the real estate industry. Mr. Fisher also is a member of the Executive Committee of the City Investment Fund, LP, a real estate investment fund. Mr. Fisher is a member of the Real Estate Board of New York’s Board of Governors.

Cheryl D. Mills will become a director. Ms. Mills has been a director of Cendant since June 2000. It is expected that Ms. Mills will continue as a Cendant director until completion of the final distribution, at which time Ms. Mills will resign as a director of Cendant. Ms. Mills has been Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary for New York University since February 2006. Ms. Mills was Senior Vice President and Counselor for Operations and Administration for New York University from May 2002 to February 2006. From October 1999 to November 2001, Ms. Mills was Senior Vice President for Corporate Policy and Public Programming of Oxygen Media, Inc. From 1997 to 1999, Ms. Mills was Deputy Counsel to the former President of the United States, William J. Clinton. From 1993 to 1996, Ms. Mills also served as Associate Counsel to the President.

Robert E. Nederlander will become a director. Mr. Nederlander has been a director of Cendant since December 1997 and Chairman of Cendant’s Corporate Governance Committee since October 2002. It is expected that Mr. Nederlander will continue as a Cendant director until completion of the final distribution, at which time Mr. Nederlander will resign as a director of Cendant. Mr. Nederlander was a director of HFS Incorporated from

 

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July 1995 until December 1997. Mr. Nederlander has been President and/or Director since November 1981 of the Nederlander Organization, Inc., owner and operator of legitimate theaters in the City of New York. Since December 1998, Mr. Nederlander has been a managing partner of the Nederlander Company, LLC, operator of legitimate theaters outside the City of New York. Mr. Nederlander was Chairman of the Board of Riddell Sports, Inc. (now known as Varsity Brands, Inc.) from April 1988 to September 2003. He has been a limited partner and a Director of the New York Yankees since 1973. Mr. Nederlander has been President of Nederlander Television and Film Productions, Inc. since October 1985 and was Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Mego Financial Corp. from January 1988 to January 2002. Mr. Nederlander is currently a director of Allis-Chalmers Corp., which files reports pursuant to the Exchange Act.

Robert W. Pittman will become a director. Mr. Pittman has been a director of Cendant since December 1997 and was a director of HFS Incorporated from July 1994 until December 1997. It is expected that Mr. Pittman will continue as a Cendant director until completion of the final distribution, at which time Mr. Pittman will resign as a director of Cendant. Mr. Pittman is a member of Pilot Group Manager LLC, the manager of Pilot Group LP, a private equity fund. From May 2002 to July 2002, Mr. Pittman served as Chief Operating Officer of AOL Time Warner, Inc. Mr. Pittman also served as Co-Chief Operating Officer of AOL Time Warner prior to assuming these responsibilities. From February 1998 until January 2001, Mr. Pittman was President and Chief Operating Officer of America Online, Inc., a provider of Internet online services. Mr. Pittman also serves as a director of Electronic Arts Inc., which files reports pursuant to the Exchange Act.

Robert F. Smith will become a director. Mr. Smith has been a director of Cendant since December 1997 and Chairman of Cendant’s Compensation Committee since October 2004. It is expected that Mr. Smith will continue as a Cendant director until completion of the final distribution, at which time Mr. Smith will resign as a director of Cendant. Mr. Smith was a director of HFS Incorporated from February 1993 until December 1997. Until recently, Mr. Smith served as the Chairman of the Board of American Remanufacturers Inc., a Chicago, Illinois automobile parts remanufacturer in which Mr. Smith has an equity interest. From February 1999 to September 2003, Mr. Smith served as Chief Executive Officer of Car Component Technologies, Inc., an automobile parts remanufacturer located in Bedford, New Hampshire. Mr. Smith is the retired Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Express Bank, Ltd. (“AEBL”). Mr. Smith joined AEBL’s parent company, the American Express Company, in 1981 as Corporate Treasurer before moving to AEBL and serving as Vice Chairman and Co-Chief Operating Officer and then President prior to becoming Chief Executive Officer.

Committees

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee of our Board of Directors will be comprised of Messrs. Silverman (Chairman), Richard Smith and Edelman. Our Executive Committee may exercise all of the powers of our Board when the Board is not in session, including the power to authorize the issuance of stock, except that the Executive Committee has no power to (i) alter, amend or repeal the by-laws or any resolution or resolutions of the Board of Directors, (ii) declare any dividend or make any other distribution to our stockholders, (iii) appoint any member of the Executive Committee or (iv) take any other action that legally may be taken only by the full Board of Directors. The Chairman of the Board will serve as Chairman of the Executive Committee.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee of our Board of Directors will be comprised of Ms. Mills and Messrs. Fisher and Robert Smith (Chairman). All members of our Audit Committee are independent directors as required by the listing standards of the NYSE. We expect that our Board will determine that at least one director meets the requirements for being an “audit committee financial expert” as defined by regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Our Audit Committee will assist our Board in its oversight of our financial reporting process. Our management will have primary responsibility for the financial statements and the reporting process, including

 

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systems of internal controls. Our independent auditors will be responsible for auditing our financial statements and expressing an opinion as to their conformity to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

In the performance of its oversight function, our Audit Committee will review and discuss with management and the independent auditors our audited financial statements. Our Audit Committee will also discuss with the independent auditors the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61 and Auditing Standard No. 2 relating to communication with audit committees. In addition, our Audit Committee will receive from the independent auditors the written disclosures and letter required by Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1 relating to independence discussions with audit committees. Our Audit Committee also will discuss with the independent auditors their independence from our company and our management, and will consider whether the independent auditor’s provision of non-audit services to our company is compatible with maintaining the auditor’s independence.

Our Audit Committee will discuss with our internal and independent auditors the overall scope and plans for their respective audits. Our Audit Committee will meet with the internal and independent auditors, with and without management present, to discuss the results of their examinations, their evaluations of our internal controls and the overall quality of our financial reporting. In addition, our Audit Committee will meet with our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to discuss the processes that they have undertaken to evaluate the accuracy and fair presentation of our financial statements and the effectiveness of our system of disclosure controls and procedures.

Compensation Committee

The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors (the “Compensation Committee”) will be comprised of Messrs. Fisher, Robert Smith and Nederlander. Our Compensation Committee will have oversight responsibility for the compensation programs for our executive officers and other employees. All members of our Compensation Committee will be independent directors as required by (i) the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange, (ii) relevant federal securities laws and regulations, including Section 16 of the Exchange Act, (iii) Section 162(m) of the Code and (iv) our Corporate Governance Principles.

Nominating and Governance Committee

The Nominating and Governance Committee of our Board of Directors will be comprised of Messrs. Nederlander (Chairman) and Pittman and Ms. Mills. Our Nominating and Governance Committee will consider and recommend candidates for election to our Board, advise our Board on director compensation, oversee the annual performance evaluations of our Board and Board committees and advise our Board on corporate governance matters. All members of our Nominating and Governance Committee will be independent directors as required by the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange and our Corporate Governance Principles.

Director Nomination Process . Our Nominating and Governance Committee will consider and recommend candidates for election to our Board. The Committee will also consider candidates for election to our Board that are submitted by stockholders. Each member of the Committee will participate in the review and discussion of director candidates. In addition, members of our Board of Directors who are not on the Committee may meet with and evaluate the suitability of candidates. In making its selections of candidates to recommend for election, the Committee will seek persons who have achieved prominence in their field and who possess significant experience in areas of importance to our company. The minimum qualifications that our Nominating and Governance Committee will require in any nominated candidate will include integrity, independence, forthrightness, analytical skills and the willingness to devote appropriate time and attention to our affairs. Candidates would also need to demonstrate a willingness to work as part of a team in an atmosphere of trust and a commitment to represent the interests of all our stockholders rather than those of a specific constituency. Successful candidates will also need to demonstrate significant experience in areas of importance to our company, such as general management, finance, marketing, technology, law, international business or public sector activities.

 

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Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

With the exception of Messrs. Silverman and Richard Smith, none of our executive officers will serve as a member of our Board of Directors. In addition, neither Mr. Silverman nor Mr. Smith will serve on our Compensation Committee. Following the separation, none of our executive officers will serve as a member of the compensation committee of any entity that has one or more executive officers serving on our Compensation Committee.

Board of Directors’ Compensation

The following table sets forth the compensation for future services expected to be paid to our non-employee directors following the distribution. All director compensation, other than the new director equity grant, will be pro-rated for 2006.

 

     Compensation (1)(3)

Annual Director Retainer (2)

   $ 130,000

New Director Equity Grant (4)

     65,000

Board and Committee Meeting Attendance Fee

    

Audit Committee Chair

     20,000

Audit Committee Member

     10,000

Compensation Committee Chair

     15,000

Compensation Committee Member

     7,500

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Chair

     10,000

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Member

     5,000

Executive Committee Member

     10,000

(1) Members of our Board of Directors who are also our or our subsidiaries’ officers or employees will not receive compensation for serving as directors (other than travel-related expenses for meetings held outside of our headquarters).
(2) The Annual Director Retainer (the “Retainer”) will be paid on a quarterly basis. The Retainer will be paid equally 50% in cash and 50% in shares of common stock required to be deferred under our Non-Employee Directors Deferred Compensation Plan (described below). Such deferred common stock is referred to as “deferred stock units.” A director may elect to receive the entire Retainer in the form of deferred stock units. The number of shares of common stock to be received pursuant to the common stock portion of the Retainer or any other compensation to be paid in the form of common stock will equal the value of the compensation being paid in the form of common stock, divided by the fair market value of the common stock as of the close of business on the date on which the compensation would otherwise have been paid. Each deferred stock unit will entitle the director to receive one share of common stock following such director’s retirement or termination of service from our Board of Directors for any reason. The directors may not sell or receive value from any deferred stock unit prior to such termination of service.
(3) The presiding director stipend, committee chair stipends and all committee membership stipends will be paid 50% in cash and 50% in deferred stock units. Directors may elect to receive more than 50% of such stipends in deferred stock units.
(4) The grant will be made in the form of deferred stock units. The number of units will equal $65,000 divided by the fair market value of a share of our common stock as of the close of business on the date of grant. Persons serving as our non-employee directors at the time of the distribution will receive their grant as of the distribution date.

 

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Executive Compensation

Summary Compensation Table

The following table sets forth information concerning the 2005, 2004 and 2003 cash and non-cash compensation awarded by Cendant and its subsidiaries, prior to the separation, to or earned by our chief executive officer and the persons whom we expect will be our four most highly compensated executive officers (the “Named Executive Officers”):

 

        Annual Compensation       Long Term Compensation    
               

Other Annual

Compensation

 

Restricted Stock

Awards ($)  (3)

 

Underlying

Options

Common
Stock

 

All Other

Compensation

Name and Principal Position

  Year   Salary ($)   Bonus ($) (1)   ($) (2)  

Target

Vesting

  /  

Above-

Target

Vesting

  (#)   ($) (4)

Henry R. Silverman,

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (5)

 

 

 

2005
2004
2003

  3,300,000
3,300,000
3,300,000
  12,316,600
15,281,508
13,787,520
  100,374
325,843
121,001
  0
0
0
  /
/
/
  0
0
0
  0
0
0
  6,600,496
5,089,340
5,604,524

Richard A. Smith,
Vice Chairman and President

 

 

2005
2004
2003

  762,500
762,500
762,500
  1,481,582
2,171,582
1,565,794
  73,863

  2,500,005
2,000,000
1,685,997
  /
/
/
  2,500,005
2,000,000
N/A
  0
0
0
  211,902
254,182
51,366

Bruce Zipf,
President and Chief Executive Officer, NRT

 

 

 

2005
2004
2003

  415,385
364,385
335,000
  324,000
204,966
201,000
 

  500,000
325,000
250,000
  /
/
/
  500,000
325,000
N/A
  0
0
0
 

Alexander E. Perriello,
President and Chief Executive Officer, Realogy Franchise Group

 

 

 

2005
2004
2003

  435,789
414,681
342,342
  517,499
351,799
190,428
 

  600,000
500,000
250,000
  /
/
/
  600,000
500,000
N/A
  0
0
0
 

Kevin J. Kelleher,
President and Chief Executive Officer, Cartus

 

 

2005
2004
2003

  358,061
360,985
338,765
  402,818
338,970
220,197
 

  600,000
450,000
400,000
  /
/
/
  600,000
450,000
N/A
  0
0
0
 


(1) For Mr. Silverman, 2005 bonus amount is his fiscal year 2005 profit-sharing bonus determined pursuant to his employment agreement, approved by the Cendant Compensation Committee and paid in the first quarter of 2006. For Mr. Smith, 2005 bonus amount is the sum of his fiscal year 2005 profit-sharing bonus equal to $1,385,000 and a special bonus under Cendant’s senior officer supplemental life insurance program equal to $96,582, both of which were paid in the first quarter of 2006. For each other Named Executive Officer, 2005 bonus amounts include regular annual bonuses providing an opportunity to receive payment targeted at 100% of base salary, but subject to the Named Executive Officer’s business unit’s attainment of performance goals and the personal performance of the Named Executive Officer, and paid in the first quarter of 2006.

 

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(2) Except where indicated, perquisites and personal benefits are less than the lesser of $50,000 or 10% of the salary and bonus for each Named Executive Officer in each year. In 2005, Mr. Silverman’s perquisites and personal benefits included $49,388 for personal use of aircraft and $49,986 for provision of Company automobiles and drivers, and Mr. Smith’s perquisites and personal benefits included $26,925 for personal use of aircraft and $27,065 for provision of automobiles and drivers (including tax assistance). In 2004, Mr. Silverman’s perquisites and personal benefits included $102,697 for personal use of aircraft and $165,013 for the reimbursement of legal fees (including tax assistance) incurred in connection with the negotiation of his employment agreement. In 2003, Mr. Silverman’s perquisites and personal benefits included $59,825 for personal use of aircraft.
(3) On April 26, 2005, each Named Executive Officer (other than Mr. Silverman) was granted performance-vesting restricted stock units relating to shares of Cendant common stock. Upon the vesting of a unit, the Named Executive Officer becomes entitled to receive a share of Cendant common stock. Up to one-eighth of the units may vest on April 27 in each of 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 based upon the extent to which Cendant attains pre-established performance goals for fiscal year 2005 through the end of the most recently completed fiscal year prior to such business day (i.e., 25% of the units scheduled to vest each year will vest if performance reaches “threshold” levels, and 100% of such units will vest if performance reaches “target” levels). The performance goals relating to these units are based upon the “total unit growth” of the Cendant common stock in relation to the average historic “total stockholder return” of the S&P 500 (“total unit growth” is comprised of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, plus increases in free cash flow generation). Units which fail to vest in 2006, 2007 and 2008 may become vested in later year(s) subject to Cendant’s attainment of cumulative multi-year performance goals. In addition, up to one-half of the units may vest on April 27, 2009 based upon the extent to which Cendant attains cumulative four-year pre-established performance goals. The performance goals relating to these units are based upon the “total unit growth” of the Cendant common stock in relation to the top-quartile average historic “total stockholder return” of the S&P 500. In all cases, intermediate levels of vesting will occur for interim levels of performance. Vesting is also subject to the Named Executive Officer remaining continuously employed with Cendant through the applicable vesting date. Each Named Executive Officer received the following number of performance-vesting restricted stock units (numbers reflect equitable adjustment in connection with Cendant’s 2005 distribution of PHH Corporation common stock to its stockholders): Mr. Silverman, 0; Mr. Smith, 249,626; Mr. Zipf, 49,925; Mr. Perriello, 59,910; and Mr. Kelleher, 59,910. The number of units granted to each Named Executive Officer was approved by the Cendant Compensation Committee. All units are eligible to receive cash dividend equivalents, which remain restricted and subject to forfeiture until the unit for which it was paid becomes vested. The value of the shares of Cendant common stock underlying the units as of the date of grant are shown in the table above and reflect a per unit value of $20.03, based upon the closing price of the Common Stock on April 26, 2005.

 

     Subject to necessary approvals and consents, we expect that all restricted stock units that vest upon the attainment of “above-target” financial performance will be cancelled in connection with Cendant’s separation transaction, and that all other restricted stock units will vest in connection with Cendant’s separation transaction.

The value of the shares underlying all units held by each Named Executive Officer as of December 30, 2005 (including outstanding units granted in 2005 and all prior years) and reflecting a per unit value of the Cendant common stock of $17.25 equaled as follows:

 

    

Above-Target Vesting

(to be canceled)

($)

  

At-Target Vesting

(to be vested)

($)

  

Total

($)

Mr. Silverman

   0    0    0

Mr. Smith

   3,716,409    4,286,177    8,002,586

Mr. Zipf

   684,635    786,773    1,471,408

Mr. Perriello

   907,574    975,488    1,883,062

Mr. Kelleher

   868,469    1,045,540    1,914,008

 

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(4) For Messrs. Silverman and Smith, amounts for fiscal year 2005 consist of (i) Cendant matching contributions to a non-qualified deferred compensation plan maintained by Cendant (“Defined Contribution Match”), (ii) Cendant-paid life insurance premiums or a bonus under Cendant’s senior officer supplemental life insurance program and (iii) executive medical benefits. Defined Contribution Match includes matching contributions relating to deferred bonuses in respect of fiscal year 2005 and paid in the first quarter of 2006. For each other Named Executive Officer, for each year, amounts are less than $100,000. The foregoing amounts were as follows:

 

     Year   

Defined

Contribution

Match ($)

  

Life Insurance

Premium/

Directed Bonus

($)(*)

  

Executive

Medical

Benefits ($)

   Totals ($)

Mr. Silverman

   2005    936,996    5,656,000    7,500    6,600,496

Mr. Smith

   2005    105,975    96,582    9,345    211,902
 
  (*) For Mr. Silverman, the amount represents premiums paid by Cendant for 2005 under Mr. Silverman’s insurance arrangement. For Mr. Smith, amount represents a directed bonus required to be used to pay life insurance premiums for a personal life insurance policy owned by the officer (such bonus amount is also reflected in the Summary Compensation Table above under the “Bonus” column).
(5) We expect Mr. Silverman to enter into a new employment agreement with us pursuant to which Mr. Silverman will provide services to us through December 31, 2007 in exchange for a base salary of $1 per year. Following Mr. Silverman’s separation from Cendant, we expect to assume certain remaining obligations to provide Mr. Silverman with employee benefits and perquisites under his existing employment agreement with Cendant, including relating to his life insurance program, as well as to provide Mr. Silverman with post-retirement employee benefits, perquisites and consulting fees, except to the extent they are settled or assumed by other Cendant entities in connection with the separation.

Option/SAR Grants in Last Fiscal Year

None of the Named Executive Officers received an option grant in 2005, 2004 or 2003.

Aggregated Option Exercises in 2005 and Year-End Option Values

The following table summarizes the exercise of Cendant common stock options by the Named Executive Officers during the last fiscal year and the value of unexercised options held by such officers as of the end of such fiscal year:

 

Name

  

Shares Acquired

on Exercise (#)

  

Value

Realized ($)

  

Number of Securities

Underlying Unexercised

Options/SARS

at FY-End (#)

Exercisable/Unexercisable

  

Value of Unexercised

In-the-Money

Options/SARS

at FY-End ($) (1)

Exercisable/Unexercisable

Mr. Silverman

   9,607,677    117,644,547    25,439,589/0    82,779,980/0

Mr. Smith

   5,323    76,581    3,484,579/0    17,563,686/0

Mr. Zipf

   0    0    102,279/0    0/0

Mr. Perriello

   0    0    211,208/0    10,795/0

Mr. Kelleher

   78,185    775,013    379,802/0    182,702/0

(1) Amounts are based upon a December 30, 2005 closing price per share of Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange of $17.25.

 

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Pension Benefits

Mr. Kelleher is our only Named Executive Officer who was a participant in the Former PHH Corporation Pension Plan and is a participant in the Cendant Corporation Pension Plan. As discussed above, upon the distribution, Mr. Kelleher will continue to be a participant in the portion of the Cendant Corporation Pension Plan which we assume from Cendant. The table below shows the estimated annual benefit payable to Mr. Kelleher commencing at age 65 under the Cendant Pension Plan. Mr. Kelleher does not participate in any supplemental pension plan. Benefit accruals have been frozen in connection with a curtailment of the former PHH Corporation Pension Plan. The benefits set forth in the table reflect straight-life annuity amounts and reflect offset for estimated Social Security benefits.

 

Name

   Years of
Credited
Service as of
January 1, 2006
   Year
Individual
Reaches Age 65
   Estimated
Annual
Benefit at Age 65

Mr. Kelleher

   22    2019    $ 40,400

Employee Benefit Plans

2006 Equity and Incentive Plan

General

Prior to the distribution, we expect that Cendant, as our sole shareholder, will approve the Realogy Corporation 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan. It is expected that the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will provide for the grant of annual cash bonuses and long-term cash awards, as well as equity-based awards, including restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock options, stock appreciation rights and other equity-based awards to our directors, officers and other employees, advisors and consultants who are selected by our Compensation Committee for participation in the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan. Mr. Silverman will not receive future equity awards for his services as an executive officer of Realogy. The material terms of the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan are summarized below. The summary is not intended to be a complete description of the terms of the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan.

Administration

The 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will be administered by our Compensation Committee, which will have the authority, among other things, to determine who will be granted awards and all of the terms and conditions of the awards. The Compensation Committee will also be authorized to determine to what extent an award may be settled, cancelled, forfeited or surrendered, to interpret the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan and any awards granted thereunder and to make all other determinations necessary or advisable for the administration of the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan. Where the vesting or payment of an award under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan is subject to the attainment of performance goals, the Compensation Committee will be responsible for certifying that the performance goals have been attained. Neither the Compensation Committee nor our Board of Directors has the authority under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan to reprice, or to cancel and re-grant, any stock option granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan, or to take any action that would lower the exercise, base or purchase price of any award granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan without first obtaining the approval of our stockholders.

Cash Incentive Programs

The 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will provide for the grant of annual and long-term cash awards to participants selected by our Compensation Committee. The maximum value of the total cash payment that any participant may receive under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan’s annual cash incentive program for any year will be $1 million, and the maximum value of the total payment that any 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan

 

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participant may receive with respect to each performance period under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan’s long-term cash incentive program will be $1 million for each year covered by the performance period. Payment of awards granted under the cash incentive programs may be made subject to the attainment of performance goals to be determined by our Compensation Committee in its discretion. The Compensation Committee may base performance goals on one or more of the following criteria, determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, where applicable:

 

    pre-tax income or after-tax income;

 

    income or earnings including operating income, earnings before or after taxes, earnings before or after interest, depreciation, amortization, royalties, or extraordinary or special items;

 

    net income excluding amortization of intangible assets, depreciation and impairment of goodwill and intangible assets and/or excluding charges attributable to the adoption of new accounting pronouncements;

 

    earnings or book value per share (basic or diluted);

 

    return on assets (gross or net), return on investment, return on capital, or return on equity;

 

    return on revenues;

 

    cash flow, free cash flow, cash flow return on investment (discounted or otherwise), net cash provided by operations, or cash flow in excess of cost of capital;

 

    economic value created;

 

    operating margin or profit margin;

 

    stock price or total stockholder return;

 

    income or earnings from continuing operations;

 

    total unit growth;

 

    real estate transaction sides;

 

    cost targets, reductions and savings, productivity and efficiencies; and

 

    strategic business criteria, consisting of one or more objectives based on meeting specified market penetration or market share, geographic business expansion, customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, human resources management, supervision of litigation, information technology, and goals relating to divestitures, joint ventures and similar transactions.

The performance goals may be expressed in terms of attaining a specified level of the particular criterion or an increase or decrease in the particular criterion, and may be applied to Realogy or one of our subsidiaries or divisions or strategic business units or a combination thereof, or may be applied to the performance of Realogy relative to a market index (including industry or general market indices), or group of other companies, all as determined by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee will have the authority to make equitable adjustments to the performance goals in recognition of unusual or non-recurring events, in response to changes in laws or regulations or to account for extraordinary or unusual events.

With respect to participants who are “covered employees” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, no payment may be made under either of the cash incentive programs prior to certification by the Compensation Committee that the applicable performance goals have been attained.

Equity Incentive Programs

No more than 42 million shares of our common stock will be available for grants pursuant to the equity incentive program under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan, which include (i) shares which may be used for purposes of satisfying our obligations under our Non-Employee Directors Deferred Compensation Plan, Savings

 

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Restoration Plan and Officer Deferred Compensation Plan (each as described below) and (ii) approximately 34 million shares necessary to implement the issuance of equity awards relating to our common stock granted pursuant to equitable adjustments of Cendant equity awards. See “—Equitable Adjustments to Outstanding Cendant Equity-Based Awards” below.

The 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan places limits on the maximum amount of awards that may be granted to any participant in any plan year. Under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan, no participant may receive awards of stock options and stock appreciation rights that cover in the aggregate more than one million shares in any plan year. Additionally, no participant may receive awards of restricted stock, restricted stock units, deferred stock units, and other stock-based awards that cover in the aggregate more than 250,000 shares in any plan year. The maximum number of shares that may be covered by “incentive stock options” within the meaning of section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code may not exceed one million shares. Shares issued under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan may be authorized but unissued shares or treasury shares.

If any shares subject to an award granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan are forfeited, cancelled, exchanged or surrendered or if an award terminates or expires without a distribution of shares, or if shares of stock are surrendered or withheld as payment of either the exercise price of an award or withholding taxes in respect of an award, those shares of common stock will again be available for awards under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan. In the event that the Compensation Committee determines that any corporate event, such as a stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, repurchase or share exchange, affects our common stock such that an adjustment is appropriate in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of the rights of 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan participants, then the Compensation Committee will make those adjustments as it deems necessary or appropriate to any or all of:

 

    the number and kind of shares or other property that may thereafter be issued in connection with future awards;

 

    the number and kind of shares or other property that may be issued under outstanding awards;

 

    the exercise price or purchase price of any outstanding award;

 

    the performance goals applicable to outstanding awards; and

 

    the maximum number of shares that can be issued to any one participant in any one year.

The Compensation Committee will determine all of the terms and conditions of equity-based awards under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan, including whether the vesting or payment of an award will be subject to the attainment of performance goals. The performance goals that may be applicable to the equity incentive program under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will be same as those discussed above under “—Cash Incentive Programs.”

We expect the Cendant Compensation Committee to approve a “2006 Annual Grant” of equity incentive awards for persons who we determine are our key employees, including our Named Executive Officers (other than Mr. Silverman). The 2006 Annual Grant will be subject to our separation from Cendant and may be in the form of restricted stock units, stock options and/or other form of equity-based awards, in each case, relating to Realogy common stock. The total aggregate value of the 2006 Annual Grant is expected to be approximately $80 million. The number of shares of Realogy common stock covered by such grant will equal the aggregate value of such grant (e.g., $80 million) divided by the fair market value of each unit, option and/or other form of award as of the grant of such award (expected to be the date of the distribution). We expect that such awards will generally vest with respect to 25% of the shares underlying the applicable award on each of the first four anniversaries of May 2, 2006, subject to the holder’s continued employment with us and subject to earlier acceleration under certain circumstances. We also expect that a portion of such awards granted to certain of our Named Executive Officers, and certain other executive officers, will be further subject to the attainment of financial performance goals relating to Realogy. We expect that such awards will be granted under our 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan

 

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and will count against the maximum number of shares of our common stock available for issuance under such plan. The expected financial impact relating to this 2006 Annual Grant will add approximately $3 million of annual non-cash expense to the pro forma financial statements set forth in this information statement. We presently anticipate that annual grants in future years will be lower than the 2006 Annual Grant.

Stock Options

The terms and conditions of stock options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will be determined by our Compensation Committee and set forth in an award agreement. Stock options granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan may be “incentive stock options,” or non-qualified stock options. A stock appreciation right confers on the participant the right to receive an amount, in cash or shares of our common stock, equal to the excess of the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of exercise over the grant price of the stock appreciation right, and may be granted alone or in tandem with another award. The exercise price of a stock option or stock appreciation right granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will not be less than the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. The grant price of a stock appreciation right granted in tandem with a stock option will be the same as the stock option to which the stock appreciation right relates. The vesting of a stock option or stock appreciation right will be subject to such conditions as the Compensation Committee may determine, which may include the attainment of performance goals.

Restricted Stock

The terms and conditions of awards of restricted stock granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will be determined by our Compensation Committee and set forth in an award agreement. A restricted stock award granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will consist of shares of our common stock that may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged or otherwise encumbered, except as provided in the applicable award agreement or until such time as the restrictions applicable to the award lapse. Under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee will have the authority to determine the participants to whom restricted stock will be granted and the terms and conditions of restricted stock awards, including whether the lapse of restrictions applicable to the award will be subject to the attainment of one or more performance goals. Certificates issued in respect of shares of restricted stock will be held by us until such time as the restrictions lapse, at which time we will deliver a certificate to the participant.

Restricted Stock Units

A restricted stock unit is an award of a right to receive a share of our common stock. These awards will be subject to such restrictions on transferability and other restrictions, if any, as the Compensation Committee may impose at the date of grant or thereafter, which restrictions may lapse separately or in combination at such times, under such circumstances (including without limitation a specified period of employment or the satisfaction of preestablished performance goals), in such installments, or otherwise, as the Compensation Committee may determine.

Dividends

The Compensation Committee may determine that the holder of restricted stock or restricted stock units may receive dividends (or dividend equivalents, in the case of restricted stock units) that may be deferred during the restricted period applicable to these awards.

Other Equity-Based Awards

The 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will provide for other equity-based awards, the form and terms of which will be as determined by the Compensation Committee, consistent with the purposes of the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan. The vesting or payment of one of these awards may be made subject to the attainment of performance goals.

 

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Change in Control

The 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will provide that, unless otherwise determined by the Compensation Committee at the time of grant, in the event of a change in control (as defined in the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan), all awards granted under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan will become fully vested and/or exercisable, and any performance conditions will be deemed to be fully achieved.

Equitable Adjustments to Outstanding Cendant Equity-Based Awards

In connection with the distribution, we expect that equitable adjustments will be made to outstanding stock option and restricted stock unit awards which currently relate to Cendant common stock, to the extent necessary to maintain equivalent value of such awards following the distribution.

Subject to Cendant Compensation Committee approval and, if necessary, employee consents, all Cendant restricted stock units which would otherwise have been subject to vesting based upon the attainment of “above-target” performance goals will be cancelled prior to the distribution and no additional Realogy or Cendant restricted stock units will be issued in respect to these canceled “above-target” restricted stock units. With respect to remaining Cendant restricted stock units (i.e., those that are not subject to the “above-target” performance goals), we expect that each holder of such restricted stock unit (including Cendant and Realogy employees) will be issued a number of restricted stock units relating to Realogy common stock, equal to the number of shares of Realogy common stock that such holder would receive in the distribution assuming the restricted stock units relating to Cendant common stock represented actual shares of Cendant common stock (i.e., a ratio of one unit relating to Realogy common stock for every four units relating to Cendant common stock). The Realogy restricted stock units and the adjusted Cendant restricted stock units will become vested on the earlier of (i) the date on which such units would have vested in accordance with the terms of the existing vesting schedule or (ii) the 30th day following the completion of the second of the series of distributions pursuant to which Cendant will separate into four independent, publicly traded companies, assuming the holder remains in employment with Cendant or Realogy, as applicable, and will be settled in shares of Realogy stock (net of any tax withholdings) shortly thereafter. For purposes of vesting of Cendant restricted stock units, we expect the Cendant Compensation Committee to determine that continued employment with Cendant, Realogy, Wyndham Worldwide or the Travel Distribution Services company which are expected to be separated from Cendant, will be viewed as continued employment with the issuer of the restricted stock units.

We expect that, effective as of the distribution, equitable adjustments will be approved with respect to stock options relating to Cendant common stock held by Cendant directors, officers and employees (including current and former Realogy directors, officers and employees). Subject to Cendant Compensation Committee approval and, if necessary, employee consents, stock options relating to Cendant common stock which would otherwise have been subject to vesting based upon the attainment of “above-target” performance goals will be canceled immediately prior to the distribution and no additional Realogy or Cendant stock options will be issued in respect to these canceled “above-target” Cendant options. With respect to remaining Cendant stock options (i.e., those that are not subject to the “above-target” performance goals), we expect that all such options will be adjusted into two separate options, one relating to Cendant common stock and one relating to Realogy common stock. Such adjustment is expected to be made such that immediately following the distribution (i) the number of shares relating to the Realogy option will be equal to the number of shares of Realogy common stock that the option holder would have received in the distribution had the Cendant option shares represented outstanding shares of Cendant common stock (i.e., a ratio of one share of Realogy common stock for each four shares of Cendant common stock), and (ii) the per share option exercise price of the original Cendant stock option will be proportionally allocated between the two types of stock options based upon the relative per share trading prices of Cendant and Realogy immediately following the distribution.

We also expect that all Realogy options issued as part of this adjustment and the Cendant options will continue to be subject to their current vesting schedules and become fully vested 30 days following the second

 

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distribution. Further, for purposes of vesting of Cendant stock options and the post-termination exercise periods applicable to Realogy and Cendant stock options, the Cendant Compensation Committee determined that continued employment with Cendant, Realogy, Wyndham Worldwide or the Travel Distribution Services company which are expected to be separated from Cendant, will be viewed as continued employment with the issuer of the options and to the extent permitted under Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code and the terms of the applicable stock option 2006 Equity and Incentive Plans, the post-termination exercise period of certain designated Realogy and Cendant stock options will be extended to three years (but not beyond the original expiration of the option and not if the option holder resigns employment or is terminated in connection with a breach of Code of Conduct of the option holder’s employer).

Term; Amendment

No awards will be made under the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan following the tenth anniversary of the date that the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan becomes effective. Our Board of Directors may amend or terminate the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan at any time, provided that the amendment or termination does not adversely affect any award that is then outstanding without the award holder’s consent. We must obtain stockholder approval of an amendment to the 2006 Equity and Incentive Plan if stockholder approval is required to comply with any applicable law, regulation or stock exchange rule.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Prior to the distribution, we expect that Cendant, as our sole shareholder, will approve an employee stock purchase plan which will enable our eligible employees to purchase shares of our common stock at a discount using amounts deducted from their eligible wages. Amounts will be deducted during each payroll cycle and accumulated during calendar month offering periods. At the end of each offering period, accumulated amounts will be used to purchase shares of our common stock at a discount of 5% from the closing price as of the last day of the offering period. We expect that no more than 250,000 shares of our common stock will be available for issuance under our employee stock purchase plan, subject to equitable adjustment under certain circumstances. Our Compensation Committee will administer the plan, and will have authority, among other things, to make rules concerning the plan’s administration, to change the length of the offering period, and to modify the amount of the discount applicable to shares purchased under the plan.

Savings Restoration Plan

We intend to adopt a savings restoration plan for the benefit of certain of our employees whose contributions to our 401(k) plan are limited by certain Internal Revenue Code rules governing the 401(k) plan. Participants in this plan will be selected by our Compensation Committee and must be, among other things, deemed a “management or highly compensated employee” (within the meaning of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”). Plan participants will be permitted to defer compensation in excess of the amounts permitted by the Internal Revenue Code under our 401(k) plan, but will not be entitled to any matching contributions. Accounts will be established in the participant’s name, and the participant may allocate his or her deferrals to one or more deemed investments under the plan, which may include a deemed investment in our common stock. We intend to establish a so-called “rabbi trust” for the purpose of holding assets to be used for the payment of benefits under the savings restoration plan. Distributions under this plan may be made in a single lump sum or in installments, at the participant’s election, generally commencing following termination of the participant’s employment. In connection with the distribution, we expect that the Cendant Corporation Savings Restoration Plan will be amended to provide that deferred compensation obligations of Realogy employees thereunder will become our obligations. We also expect to enter into an arrangement whereby we and each of the other separated companies, other than Avis Budget Group, Inc., will guarantee each other’s obligations under our respective savings restoration plans for amounts deferred in respect of 2005 and earlier years.

 

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Officer Deferred Compensation Plan

We intend to adopt an officer deferred compensation plan for the benefit of certain of our officers selected by our Compensation Committee from time to time. Under this plan, participants will be permitted to defer compensation on such terms as our Compensation Committee will determine from time to time. We intend to establish a so-called “rabbi trust” for the purpose of holding assets to be used for the payment of benefits under the officer deferred compensation plan. We will contribute amounts deferred by the participant to that trust, as well as any matching contributions that may be made by us in our discretion. Accounts will be established in the participant’s name and the participant may allocate his or her deferrals to one or more deemed investments under the plan, which may include a deemed investment in our common stock. Matching contributions may be subject to such vesting provisions as we will determine from time to time; however, all of a participant’s accounts under this plan will become fully vested in the event of a change in control (as defined in the officer deferred compensation plan) or in the event that the participant’s service with us terminates as a result of death or disability. A participant in this plan may elect a single lump-sum payment of his or her account, or may elect payments over time; however, the participant’s entire account balance will be paid in a single lump sum following a change in control.

In connection with the distribution, we expect that the Cendant Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan will be amended to provide that deferred compensation obligations of Realogy employees thereunder will become our obligations under our new deferred compensation plan, and that a corresponding amount of assets held under a rabbi trust under the Cendant Deferred Compensation Plan will be transferred to a rabbi trust under our deferred compensation plan. We also expect to enter into an arrangement whereby we and each of the other separated companies, other than Avis Budget Group, Inc., will guarantee each other’s obligations under our respective officer deferred compensation plans for amounts deferred in respect of 2005 and earlier years.

Non-Employee Directors Deferred Compensation Plan

We intend to adopt a deferred compensation plan for the benefit of our non-employee directors which will facilitate the deferral of all or a portion of certain fees they receive from us for service on our Board of Directors. See “—Board of Directors’ Compensation.” In connection with the separation, we expect that the Cendant Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors will be amended, among other things, to provide that deferred compensation obligations of Realogy non-employee directors will become our obligations under our deferred compensation plan. We also expect to enter into an arrangement whereby we and each of the other separated companies, other than Avis Budget Group, Inc., will guarantee each other’s obligations under our respective non-employee director deferred compensation plans for amounts deferred in respect of 2005 and earlier years.

Realogy Pension Plan

Cendant sponsors and maintains the Cendant Corporation Pension Plan (the “Cendant Pension Plan”), which is a “defined benefit” employee pension plan subject to ERISA. The Cendant Pension Plan is a successor plan to the PHH Corporation Pension Plan (the “Former PHH Pension Plan”) pursuant to a transaction whereby Cendant caused a number of defined benefit pension plans to become consolidated into a single plan. A number of our employees are entitled to benefits under the Cendant Pension Plan pursuant to their prior participation in the Former PHH Pension Plan as well as subsequent participation in the Cendant Pension Plan. During 1999, the Former PHH Pension Plan was frozen and curtailed, other than for certain employees who attained a certain age and service requirements. As a result, only approximately 362 of our current employees are participants in the Cendant Pension Plan. Of these current employees participating in the Cendant Pension Plan (collectively, “Current Participants”), approximately 345 are no longer accruing additional benefits (other than their right to attain early retirement subsidies) and approximately 17 continue to accrue additional benefits. All of our other employees are not participants in the Cendant Pension Plan.

In connection with the distribution, Cendant and Realogy have agreed to separate the Cendant Pension Plan into two plans. Effective upon the distribution, we will adopt a new defined benefit employee pension plan, to be

 

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named the Realogy Corporation Pension Plan, which will be identical in all material respects to the Cendant Pension Plan (the “New Realogy Plan”). Also effective upon the distribution, the New Realogy Pension Plan will assume all liabilities and obligations under the Cendant Pension Plan which relate to the Former PHH Pension Plan. We will also assume any supplemental pension obligations accrued by any participant of the Cendant Pension Plan which relates to the Former PHH Pension Plan. Our employees who are not participants in the Cendant Pension Plan will not be participants in the New Realogy Plan.

In consideration of the New Realogy Plan accepting and assuming the liabilities and obligations described above under the Cendant Pension Plan, Cendant will cause the Cendant Pension Plan to make a direct transfer of a portion of its assets to the New Realogy Plan. The value of the assets to be transferred from the Cendant Pension Plan to the New Realogy Plan will be proportional to the liabilities assumed by the New Realogy Plan, and such value will be determined based upon applicable law, including under ERISA and IRS regulations.

Retiree Medical Program

Cendant currently maintains a retiree medical and insurance program covering certain of our employees and retirees. In connection with the distribution, we expect to assume such program. The retiree medical program will provide qualifying retirees and their eligible dependents the opportunity, until age 65, to participate in medical and insurance plans offered during the same period to our active employees who reside in the same geographic area. Benefits under our program may be coordinated with and limited by coverage provided under other plans. The cost to qualifying retirees of participation in this program, which cost will be determined by the plan administrator from time to time, may be as high, or higher, than the cost applicable to active employees during the same period residing in the same geographic area.

Code Section 409A

The U.S. federal income tax laws were recently amended to impose additional limitations on certain types of deferred compensation. In the event that any payment under the foregoing programs and policies would result in an imposition of tax under these provisions, we intend to act to modify any such payments to avoid imposition of such tax to the extent permissible under applicable law.

Employment Agreements

Mr. Silverman. We expect to enter into an employment agreement, to be effective as of the date of the distribution, with Henry R. Silverman, who will serve as our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. The agreement will have a term ending on December 31, 2007, at which time Mr. Silverman is expected to retire as an executive officer of Realogy but remain as a non-employee director. Mr. Silverman’s new employment agreement with us will provide that Mr. Silverman will provide services to us for cash compensation equal to $1 per year and that during the period in which Mr. Silverman is the chief executive officer, he will not be eligible to receive any new equity grants or incentive compensation awards. During Mr. Silverman’s employment with us, he will continue to receive the welfare benefits and perquisites to which he is entitled under his existing agreement with Cendant, including benefits in respect of his split-dollar life insurance policies.

Mr. Smith. We expect to enter into an employment agreement, to be effective as of the date of the distribution, with Richard A. Smith, who will serve as Vice Chairman of our Board and President, and who we expect will serve as Chief Executive Officer following Mr. Silverman’s retirement. We expect that such employment agreement will have a term ending on the third anniversary of the distribution. In addition to providing for a minimum base salary of $1 million and employee benefit plans generally available to our executive officers, Mr. Smith’s agreement will provide for an annual incentive award with a target amount equal to no less than 100% of his base salary, subject to attainment of performance goals, and grants of long-term incentive awards, upon such terms and conditions as determined by our Board of Directors or our Compensation Committee. In addition, Mr. Smith will be granted an equity incentive award relating to our common stock that

 

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will have a value on the grant date of $5.0 million. Mr. Smith’s agreement will provide that if his employment with us is terminated by us without “cause” or due to a “constructive discharge” (each term as defined in Mr. Smith’s agreement), he will be entitled to a lump sum payment equal to 299% of the sum of his then-current base salary plus his then-current target annual bonus. In addition, in this event, all of Mr. Smith’s then-outstanding Realogy equity awards will become fully vested (and any Realogy stock options will remain exercisable until the earlier of five years following his termination of employment and the original termination date of such options). Mr. Smith’s employment agreement will also provide him and his dependents with medical benefits through his age 62, and further coverage of such medical benefits in the event of his termination without cause or constructive discharge. We expect that the employment agreement will provide Mr. Smith with the right to claim a constructive discharge if we hire or promote any other person to the role of Chief Executive Officer or if Mr. Silverman remains our Chief Executive Officer beyond December 31, 2007. Mr. Smith’s agreement will provide for post-termination non-competition and non-solicitation covenants which will last for two years following Mr. Smith’s employment with us.

We expect to enter into employment agreements with one or more of our other Named Executive Officers, which will become effective as of the date of the distribution or thereafter. The agreements are expected to set forth the base salary, bonus opportunities and initial equity awards to be provided to each of these officers, in addition to other matters.

 

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SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

As of the date hereof, all of the outstanding shares of our common stock are owned by Cendant. After the distribution, Cendant will own none of our common stock The following table provides information with respect to the expected beneficial ownership of our common stock by (i) each of our stockholders who we believe will be a beneficial owner of more than 5% of our outstanding common stock, (ii) each of the persons nominated to serve as our directors, (iii) each officer named in the Summary Compensation Table and (iv) all of our executive officers and directors nominees as a group. We based the share amounts on each person’s beneficial ownership of Cendant common stock as of March 24, 2006, unless we indicate some other basis for the share amounts, and assuming a distribution ratio of one share of our common stock for every four shares of Cendant common stock.

To the extent our directors and officers own Cendant common stock at the time of the separation, they will participate in the distribution on the same terms as other holders of Cendant common stock. In addition, following the distribution, we expect Cendant stock-based awards held by these individuals will be equitably adjusted to become separate awards relating to both Cendant common stock and our common stock. Such awards relating to our common stock are reflected in the table below based upon our expected adjustment formula. However, certain stock-based awards held by these individuals that will vest on the 30th day following the completion of the second of the series of distributions by Cendant are not included in the table below. For a description of the equitable adjustments expected to be made to Cendant stock-based awards, see “Executive Compensation—Employee Benefit Plans—Equitable Adjustments to Outstanding Cendant Equity-Based Awards.”

Except as otherwise noted in the footnotes below, each person or entity identified below has sole voting and investment power with respect to such securities. Following the distribution, we will have outstanding an aggregate of approximately 250 million shares of common stock based upon approximately 1 billion shares of Cendant common stock outstanding on March 24, 2006, excluding treasury shares and assuming no exercise of Cendant options, and applying the distribution ratio of one share of our common stock for every four shares of Cendant common stock held as of the record date.

 

Name of Beneficial Owner

  

Total # of Shares
to be Beneficially

Owned (a)

   % of Class (b)  

Of the Total #

of Shares

Beneficially

Owned,

Shares which

May be
Acquired
within 60
days (c)

Principal Stockholder:

       

Barclays Global Investors, N.A. (d)

   22,234,700    8.88%   22,234,700

Directors and Executive Officers (e) :

       

Henry R. Silverman

   8,669,354    3.46%   6,359,897

Richard A. Smith (f)

   915,691    *   878,235

Martin L. Edelman (g)

   83,585    *   82,835

Kenneth Fisher

      *  

Cheryl D. Mills (h)

   35,416    *   33,737

Robert E. Nederlander (i)

   82,892    *   82,892

Robert W. Pittman (j)

   225,693    *   209,986

Robert F. Smith (k)

   70,196    *   70,196

Alexander E. Perriello, III (l)

   59,959    *   54,002

Kevin J. Kelleher (m)

   101,609    *   96,871

Bruce Zipf (n)

   26,770    *   26,770

All directors and executive officers as a group (16 persons)

   10,471,789    4.18%   8,086,600

* Amount represents less than 1% of outstanding common stock

 

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(a) The amounts included in this column represent the shares of our common stock which will be beneficially owned by the listed individuals based on the distribution ratio of one share of our common stock for every four shares of Cendant common stock owned by such individuals on March 24, 2006. Amounts include direct and indirect ownership of shares, stock options and restricted stock units that are currently vested or will become vested within 60 days of March 24, 2006 (“Vested Awards”) and shares of common stock, the receipt of which has been deferred by directors in accordance with our and Cendant’s Non-Employee Directors Deferred Compensation Plans (“Deferred Shares”).
(b) Represents the percentage of our common stock which we expect to be outstanding (based on the expected number of our shares to be distributed based on 1,001,772,920 shares of Cendant common stock outstanding on March 24, 2006).
(c) Includes Vested Awards and Deferred Shares.
(d) Reflects beneficial ownership of 88,938,800 shares of Cendant common stock by Barclays Global Investors, N.A. and its affiliated entities (“Barclays”), as derived solely from information reported in a Schedule 13G under the Exchange Act filed by Barclays with the SEC on January 26, 2006. Such Schedule 13G indicates that Barclays has sole voting power over 78,108,267 of the shares and no voting power over 10,830,533 of the shares. The principal business address for Barclays Global Investors, N.A. is 45 Fremont Street, San Francisco, CA 94015. Information is based upon the assumption that Barclays holds 88,938,800 shares of Cendant common stock as of March 24, 2006.
(e) Such directors and/or executive officer’s Vested Awards are deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the percentage of class for such director and/or executive officer.
(f) Includes 19,400 shares held in a non-qualified deferred compensation plan, 129 shares held in a second non-qualified deferred compensation plan and 878,106 Vested Awards.
(g) Includes 7,255 Deferred Shares and 75,580 Vested Awards.
(h) Includes 5,069 Deferred Shares and 28,668 Vested Awards.
(i) Includes 7,312 Deferred Shares and 75,580 Vested Awards.
(j) Includes 9,146 Deferred Shares and 200,840 Vested Awards.
(k) Includes 7,647 Deferred Shares and 62,549 Vested Awards.
(l) Includes 54,002 Vested Awards.
(m) Includes 96,871 Vested Awards.
(n) Includes 26,770 Vested Awards.

 

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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Distribution from Cendant

The distribution will be accomplished by Cendant distributing all of its shares of our common stock to holders of Cendant common stock entitled to such distribution, as described in “The Separation” section included elsewhere in this information statement. Completion of the distribution will be subject to satisfaction or waiver by Cendant of the conditions to the separation and distribution described below under “—Agreements with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company.”

Related Party Transactions

Certain affiliates of Barclays Global Investors, N.A., which we refer to collectively as Barclays, an approximately 8.88% stockholder of Cendant based on a Schedule 13G filed by Barclays in January 2006 and approximately 1 billion shares of Cendant common stock outstanding on March 24, 2006, have performed, and may in the future perform, various commercial banking, investment banking and other financial advisory services for Cendant (including us and our subsidiaries) for which they have received, and will receive, customary fees and expenses. The fees paid to Barclays by Cendant and its subsidiaries in 2005 were approximately $5 million.

Agreements with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company

Before our separation from Cendant, we will enter into a Separation and Distribution agreement and several other agreements with Cendant and Cendant’s other businesses to effect the separation and provide a framework for our relationships with Cendant and Cendant’s other businesses after the separation. These agreements will govern the relationship among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company subsequent to the completion of the separation plan and provide for the allocation among us, Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company of Cendant’s assets, liabilities and obligations (including employee benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to periods prior to the respective separations of each of the businesses from Cendant. In addition to the Separation and Distribution Agreement (which contains many of the key provisions related to our separation from Cendant and the distribution of our shares of common stock to Cendant stockholders), these agreements include:

 

  the Tax Sharing Agreement; and

 

  the Transition Services Agreement.

The principal agreements described below will be filed as exhibits to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this information statement is a part, and the summaries of each of these agreements set forth the terms of the agreements that we believe are material. These summaries are qualified in their entireties by reference to the full text of the applicable agreements, which are incorporated by reference into this information statement.

The terms of the agreements described below that will be in effect following our separation have not yet been finalized; changes, some of which may be material, may be made prior to our separation from Cendant. Moreover, following our separation from Cendant, additional changes may be made by Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company (prior to their respective separations from Cendant) with respect to rights and obligations among those three parties. None of the changes made after our separation from Cendant may be made without our consent if such changes would adversely affect us.

Separation and Distribution Agreement

The Separation and Distribution Agreement will set forth our agreements with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company regarding the principal transactions necessary to separate us from Cendant. It will also set forth other agreements that govern certain aspects of our relationship

 

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with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company after the completion of the separation plan. The parties intend to enter into the Separation and Distribution Agreement immediately before the distribution of our shares to Cendant stockholders. Upon our separation from Cendant, the Separation and Distribution Agreement will be effective as between us and each of Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company with respect to our obligations to each of Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company and with respect to the obligations to us of each of Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company.

Transfer of Assets and Assumption of Liabilities. The Separation and Distribution Agreement will identify assets to be transferred, liabilities to be assumed and contracts to be assigned to each of us, Wyndham Worldwide, the Travel Distribution Services company and Cendant as part of the separation of Cendant into four independent companies, and will describe when and how these transfers, assumptions and assignments will occur, although, many of the transfers, assumptions and assignments may have already occurred prior to the parties’ entering into the Separation and Distribution Agreement. In particular, the Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that, subject to the terms and conditions contained in the Separation and Distribution Agreement:

 

  All of the assets and liabilities (including whether accrued, contingent or otherwise) primarily related to our business (the business and operations of Cendant’s Real Estate Services segment) will be retained by or transferred to us or one of our subsidiaries;

 

  All of the assets and liabilities (including whether accrued, contingent or otherwise) primarily related to the business and operations of Cendant’s Hospitality Services (including Timeshare Resorts) segments will be retained by or transferred to Wyndham Worldwide or one of its subsidiaries;

 

  All of the assets and liabilities (including whether accrued, contingent or otherwise) primarily related to the business and operations of Cendant’s Travel Distribution Services segment will be retained by or transferred to the Travel Distribution Services company or one of its subsidiaries;

 

  All of the assets and liabilities (including whether accrued, contingent or otherwise) primarily related to the business and operations of Cendant’s Vehicle Rental segment will be retained by or transferred to Cendant or one of its subsidiaries;

 

  Liabilities (including whether accrued, contingent or otherwise) related to, arising out of or resulting from businesses of Cendant that were previously terminated or divested will be allocated among the parties to the extent formerly owned or managed by or associated with such parties or their respective businesses;

 

  Each party will assume or retain any liabilities relating to its employees in respect of the period prior to, on or following its separation;

 

  Each party or one of its subsidiaries will assume or retain any liabilities (including under applicable federal and state securities laws) relating to, arising out of or resulting from any registration statement or similar disclosure document which offers for sale any security of such party to the extent such documents exclusively relate to such party or its subsidiaries or affiliates;

 

  Each party or one of its subsidiaries will assume or retain any liabilities relating to, arising out of or resulting from any of its or its subsidiaries’ or controlled affiliates’ indebtedness (including debt securities and asset-backed debt), regardless of the issuer of such indebtedness, exclusively relating to its business or secured exclusively by its assets;

 

 

We will assume 50%, Wyndham Worldwide will assume 30% and the Travel Distribution Services company will assume 20% of certain contingent and other non-contingent corporate liabilities of Cendant or its subsidiaries, which we refer to in this information statement as Assumed Cendant Contingent and Other Liabilities, which are not primarily related to any of our business or the business of Wyndham Worldwide or the Travel Distribution Services company and/or Cendant’s Vehicle Rental business, in each case incurred on or prior to the earlier of (x) December 31, 2006 or (y) the date of the later to occur of the separation of

 

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Wyndham Worldwide or of the Travel Distribution Services company from Cendant, including liabilities related to, arising out of or resulting from (i) certain terminated or divested businesses including, among others, Cendant’s former PHH and Marketing Services (Affinion) businesses, (ii) the Securities Action, the PRIDES Action and the ABI Actions (for further description of these litigation matters see “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Litigation for which we assumed liability pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement”) and (iii) any actions with respect to the separation plan or the distributions (other than actions arising out of disclosure documents relating to the securities or indebtedness of one of the four businesses) made or brought by any third party. Cendant will not assume liability for any such Assumed Cendant Contingent and Other Liabilities (although, if a party defaults in payments in respect of any such liability, each non-defaulting party, including Cendant, will pay an equal share of such defaulted amount);

 

  We will be entitled to receive 50%, Wyndham Worldwide will be entitled to receive 30% and the Travel Distribution Services company will be entitled to receive 20% of the proceeds (or, in certain cases, a portion thereof) from certain contingent corporate assets of Cendant, which we refer to in this information statement as Cendant Contingent Assets, which are not primarily related to any of our business, the business of Wyndham Worldwide or the Travel Distribution Services company or Cendant’s Vehicle Rental business, arising or accrued on or prior to the earlier of (x) December 31, 2006 or (y) the date of the later to occur of the separation of Wyndham Worldwide or the Travel Distribution Services company from Cendant; and

 

  Except as otherwise provided in the Separation and Distribution Agreement or any ancillary agreement, other than the costs and expenses relating to the issuance of debt or debt-related securities by any party or its subsidiaries (the costs and expenses of which are expected to be the responsibility of such party), the corporate costs and expenses relating to the separation plan are expected to be shared among us, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company in a manner to be provided in the Separation and Distribution Agreement.

Except as may expressly be set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement or any ancillary agreement, all assets will be transferred on an “as is,” “where is” basis and the respective transferees will bear the economic and legal risks that (i) any conveyance will prove to be insufficient to vest in the transferee good title, free and clear of any security interest and (ii) any necessary consents or governmental approvals are not obtained 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 separation is presented based on the allocation of such assets and liabilities as set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, unless the context otherwise requires. Certain of the liabilities and obligations to be assumed by one party or for which one party will have an indemnification obligation under the Separation and Distribution Agreement and the other agreements relating to the separation are, and following the separation may continue to be, the legal or contractual liabilities or obligations of another party. Each such party that continues to be subject to such legal or contractual liability or obligation will rely on the applicable party that assumed the liability or obligation or the applicable party that undertook an indemnification obligation with respect to the liability or obligation, as applicable, under the Separation and Distribution Agreement, to satisfy the performance and payment obligations or indemnification obligations with respect to such legal or contractual liability or obligation.

Further Assurances.   To the extent that any transfers contemplated by the Separation and Distribution Agreement have not been consummated on or prior to the date of the applicable separation, the parties will agree to cooperate to effect such transfers as promptly as practicable following the date of the applicable separation. In addition, each of the parties will agree to cooperate with each other and use commercially reasonable efforts to take or to cause to be taken all actions, and to do, or to cause to be done, all things reasonably necessary under applicable law or contractual obligations to consummate and make effective the transactions contemplated by the Separation and Distribution Agreement and the ancillary agreements.

The Distributions and Financings.   The Separation and Distribution Agreement will also govern the rights and obligations of the parties regarding the proposed distributions. Each of us, Wyndham Worldwide and the

 

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Travel Distribution Services company will agree to distribute to Cendant as a stock dividend the number of shares of such party’s common stock distributable in the applicable distribution to effectuate the applicable separation. In addition, Cendant will agree to cause its agent to distribute to Cendant stockholders that hold shares of Cendant common stock as of the applicable record date all the shares of common stock of the company being separated from Cendant.

The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that we, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company will incur indebtedness, establish and draw upon credit facilities and transfer funds in amounts sufficient, in the aggregate, to permit Cendant to repay its existing corporate indebtedness and to pay other costs of Cendant associated with the consummation of the separation plan.

Additionally, the Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that the distributions are subject to several conditions that must be satisfied or waived by Cendant in its sole discretion. For further information regarding our separation from Cendant, see “The Separation—Conditions to the Distribution.”

Intercompany Accounts.   The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that, subject to any provisions in the Separation and Distribution Agreement or any ancillary agreement to the contrary, prior to the separation from Cendant of us, Wyndham Worldwide or the Travel Distribution Services company, as the case may be, intercompany accounts will be settled as will be set forth in the Separation and Distribution Agreement, and it is expected that substantially all of such balances will no longer be outstanding.

Releases and Indemnification.   Except as otherwise provided in the Separation and Distribution Agreement or any ancillary agreement, each party will release and forever discharge each other party and its respective subsidiaries and affiliates from all liabilities existing or arising from any acts or events occurring or failing to occur or alleged to have occurred or to have failed to occur or any conditions existing or alleged to have existed on or before the separation from Cendant of any such parties. The releases will not extend to obligations or liabilities under any agreements between the parties that remain in effect following the separation pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement or any ancillary agreement.

In addition, the Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide for cross-indemnities principally designed to place financial responsibility for the obligations and liabilities of our business with us and financial responsibility for the obligations and liabilities of Cendant’s business, Wyndham Worldwide’s business and the Travel Distribution Services company’s business with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company, respectively. Specifically, each party will, and will cause its subsidiaries and affiliates to, indemnify, defend and hold harmless the other parties, their respective affiliates and subsidiaries and each of their respective officers, directors, employees and agents for any losses arising out of or otherwise in connection with:

 

  the liabilities each such party assumed or retained pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement;

 

  any misstatement of or omission to state a material fact contained in any party’s public filings, only to the extent the misstatement or omission is based upon information that was furnished by the applicable indemnifying party (or incorporated by reference from a filing of such indemnifying party) and then only to the extent the statement or omission was made or occurred after the separation of the party seeking indemnification; and

 

  any breach by such party of the Separation and Distribution Agreement.

Legal Matters.   Each party to the Separation and Distribution Agreement will assume the liability for, and control of, all pending and threatened legal matters related to its own business or assumed or retained liabilities and will indemnify the other parties for any liability arising out of or resulting from such assumed legal matters.

Each party to a claim will agree to cooperate in defending any claims against two or more parties for events that took place prior to, on or after the date of the separation of such party from Cendant.

 

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Except with respect to actions brought against Cendant by a governmental entity (in which case Cendant will act as managing party and manage and assume control of such legal matters), we will act as managing party and manage and assume control of all legal matters related to any Assumed Cendant Contingent and Other Liability or Cendant Contingent Asset. Each of the parties will cooperate fully with the applicable managing party in connection with the management of such assets and liabilities. The party responsible for managing an Assumed Cendant Contingent and Other Liability or Cendant Contingent Asset shall be reimbursed for all out-of-pocket costs and expenses related thereto by Wyndham Worldwide, the Travel Distribution Services company and, if Cendant is acting as managing party, by us, in proportion to the applicable percentage that each such party is responsible for in respect of such liability or right to such asset. If one or more parties defaults in payment of its portion of any Assumed Cendant Contingent and Other Liability or the cost of managing any Cendant Contingent Asset, each non-defaulting party (including Cendant) shall be responsible for an equal portion of the amount in default (although any such payments will not release the obligation of the defaulting party). Additionally, the Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide that if, as a result of a change of control or other extraordinary corporate transaction, any of us, Wyndham Worldwide and/or the Travel Distribution Services company were to suffer certain downgrades to our or its, as applicable, respective senior credit ratings, then upon the demand of us, Wyndham Worldwide, the Travel Distribution Services company or Cendant, as applicable, any such party suffering such credit downgrade would be required to post a letter of credit or similar security obligation generally in respect of its portion of the remaining Assumed Cendant Contingent and Other Liability based on an appraisal prepared by a third-party expert.

The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide for the formation of a contingent claim committee, which will have the responsibility for the adoption of any plan to settle, resolve or achieve the disposition of any Assumed Cendant Contingent and Other Liability or Cendant Contingent Asset, with one representative from each of us, Wyndham Worldwide, the Travel Distribution Services company and Cendant. Resolution of a matter submitted to the contingent claim committee will require the approval of a majority of the representatives entitled to vote on such matter, except that in certain cases where a party may be adversely affected, the approval by the affected party is also required. Except with respect to certain limited matters where Cendant would be adversely affected by the disposition of a claim, Cendant’s representative to the contingent claim committee will not be entitled to vote on matters submitted to the contingent claim committee for resolution.

Employee Matters.   The Separation and Distribution Agreement will allocate liabilities and responsibilities relating to employee compensation and benefit plans and programs and other related matters in connection with the separation of Cendant into four independent companies, including the treatment of certain outstanding and long-term incentive awards, existing deferred compensation obligations and certain retirement and welfare benefit obligations. The Separation and Distribution Agreement will also provide that outstanding Cendant stock options and restricted stock unit awards will be equitably adjusted in connection with each distribution (see “Management—Equitable Adjustments to Outstanding Cendant Equity-Based Awards”).

Non-Competition.   Each party will generally agree not to compete with the businesses of each other party, subject to certain exceptions, for a specified period.

Insurance.   The Separation and Distribution Agreement will provide for the allocation among the parties of benefits under existing insurance policies for occurrences prior to each separation and sets forth procedures for the administration of insured claims. In addition, the agreement will allocate among the parties the right to proceeds and the obligation to incur deductibles under certain insurance policies. In addition, the Separation and Distribution Agreement provides that Cendant will obtain, subject to the terms of the agreement, certain directors and officers insurance policies and error and omissions run-off insurance policies to apply against certain pre-separation claims, if any.

Dispute Resolution.   In the event of any dispute arising out of the Separation and Distribution Agreement, the general counsels of the parties will negotiate for a reasonable period of time to resolve any disputes among the parties. If the parties are unable to resolve disputes in this manner, the disputes will be resolved through binding arbitration.

 

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Other Matters Governed by the Separation and Distribution Agreement.   Other matters governed by the Separation and Distribution Agreement include access to financial and other information, confidentiality, access to and provision of records and treatment of outstanding guarantees and similar credit support.

Tax Sharing Agreement

Before our separation from Cendant, we will enter into a Tax Sharing Agreement with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company that generally will govern Cendant’s, the other separated companies’ and our respective rights, responsibilities and obligations after the distribution with respect to taxes, including ordinary course of business taxes and taxes, if any, incurred as a result of any failure of the distribution of all of the stock of Realogy, Wyndham Worldwide, or the Travel Distribution Services company to qualify as a tax-free distribution for U.S. federal income tax purposes within the meaning of Section 355 of the Code. Under the Tax Sharing Agreement, we expect, with certain exceptions, that:

 

    for taxable years ending on or before December 31, 2006, (i) we generally will be responsible for the payment of income and non-income taxes attributable to our operations that we currently are obligated to pay on a separate return basis (i.e., not as part of a group of which Cendant is the common parent); (ii) each of Wyndham Worldwide, the Travel Distribution Services company and Cendant generally will be responsible for the payment of income and non-income taxes attributable to its (or its subsidiaries’) operations that such company (or its subsidiaries) currently is obligated to pay on a separate return basis (i.e., not as part of a group of which Cendant is the common parent); (iii) we generally will be responsible for the payment of 50% of all income and non-income taxes imposed on Cendant and certain other subsidiaries the operations (or former operations) of which were determined by Cendant not to relate specifically to the businesses of Realogy, Wyndham Worldwide, the Travel Distribution Services company or the Vehicle Rental business or their respective subsidiaries; and (iv) Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company generally will be responsible for the payment of 30% and 20%, respectively, of all income and non-income taxes imposed on Cendant and certain other subsidiaries the operations (or former operations) of which were determined by Cendant not to relate specifically to the businesses of Realogy, Wyndham Worldwide, the Travel Distribution Services company, the Vehicle Rental business or their respective subsidiaries, and

 

    for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2007, Realogy generally will be responsible for the payment of income and non-income taxes imposed on Realogy and its direct or indirect subsidiaries.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, we expect that, under the Tax Sharing Agreement, Realogy also generally will be responsible for the payment of any taxes imposed on Cendant that arise from the failure of the distribution of the stock of Realogy to qualify as a tax-free distribution for U.S. federal income tax purposes within the meaning of Section 355 of the Code, if such failure to qualify is attributable to the actions of or transactions undertaken by Realogy or its direct or indirect subsidiaries after the separation. In addition, we generally will be responsible for the payment of 50% of any taxes imposed on Cendant that arise from the failure of the distribution of the stock of Realogy to qualify as a tax-free distribution for U.S. federal income tax purposes within the meaning of Section 355 of the Code, if such failure to qualify is not attributable to the actions of or transactions undertaken by us, any of the other separated companies or our or their direct or indirect subsidiaries after the separation. The Tax Sharing Agreement also is expected to impose restrictions on our and Cendant’s ability to engage in certain actions following our separation from Cendant and to set forth the respective obligations among us, Cendant and the other separated companies with respect to the filing of tax returns, the administration of tax contests, assistance and cooperation and other matters.

Commercial Intercompany Arrangements with Cendant and its Subsidiaries

We have commercial arrangements with Cendant’s other business units only in limited circumstances. The arrangements we have that will be continuing after our separation from Cendant are described below. Aggregate revenue received from all such arrangements was approximately 0.02% of our revenue in 2005. Aggregate

 

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expenses paid by us in connection with such arrangements equaled less than 0.01% of our expenses in 2005. We believe that these agreements were substantially similar to those we would have entered into with an independent third party.

Corporate Relocation Services Agreements

Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company have agreed to continue to outsource to us their employee relocation services, including relocation policy management, household goods moving services and departure and destination real estate related services. Pursuant to such agreements, we will receive a fee for each relocating employee as well as reimbursement for direct costs associated with the relocation. The agreements with each such company shall continue indefinitely, unless terminated earlier by either party in accordance with the terms of the agreement. Cendant paid us $900,000, $900,000 and $1.2 million in each of 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, for provision of relocation services.

Commercial Real Estate Brokerage Agreement

Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company have agreed to continue to utilize our commercial real estate brokerage network on a non-exclusive basis to provide certain real estate related services, such as transaction management, acquisition and disposition services, broker price opinions, renewal due diligence and portfolio review. The agreements with each such business extends for an initial term of three years, unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms of the agreement. We are not compensated directly for commercial real estate brokerage transactions which utilize our franchisees; however, we do receive revenue in the form of royalty payments made by our commercial real estate brokerage franchisees on such transactions. In certain circumstances, our company owned brokerage operations may provide the ultimate service.

Real Estate Affinity Agreements

Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company have agreed to continue to market our brokerage and settlement services products and services to their respective franchisees, customers and employees, as applicable, via various forms of advertising and media, including but not limited to brochures, newsletters and presentations at various conferences. The agreements with each such business extends for an initial term of three years unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms of the agreement.

Corporate Travel Agreement

We have entered into an agreement with a subsidiary in Cendant’s Travel Distribution Services business to continue to utilize the business’ corporate travel management services, which include full-service ticketing and fulfillment services, a custom-configured corporate on-line booking tool and access to a corporate travel call center. The agreement extends for an initial term of three years, unless terminated earlier by either party in accordance with the terms of the agreement. We paid approximately $378,000 and $237,000 for use of these services in each of 2005 and 2004, respectively. We were not separately charged for these services in 2003. Corporate travel services were not provided through Cendant’s Travel Distribution Services business in 2003.

Car Rental Rate Agreements

We have agreed to designate Cendant’s car rental brands, Avis and Budget, as the primary and secondary suppliers, respectively, of car rental services for our employees. These agreements provide for negotiated car rental rates and discounts for both business and leisure travel on a worldwide basis. The agreements extend for an initial term of three years, unless terminated earlier by either party in accordance with the terms of the agreement. We paid Cendant $130,000, $120,000 and $160,000 for use of its car rental services in each of 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

 

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Travel Reward Agreements

We have agreed to allow Cendant’s Resort Condominiums International, LLC subsidiary (“RCI”) to market reduced-cost vacation certificates to our franchisees and have agreed with Cendant’s Travel Rewards, Inc. subsidiary and RCI to allow certain of their members to earn travel-related “points” in connection with the purchase or sale of real estate handled by real estate brokerage offices in the Cartus broker network or in connection with the utilization of moving companies recommended by Cartus. We received approximately $196,000, $171,000, and $100,000 in each of 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

Commercial Intercompany Arrangements with Former Cendant Affiliates

PHH Corporation

In January 2005, Cendant completed the spin-off of its mortgage and fleet management business, PHH Corporation. In connection with that transaction, we entered into a number of commercial arrangements with PHH, which arrangements are outlined below. In total, we earned $8.0 million from PHH in 2005 from all of the following arrangements.

PHH Home Loans Venture.   We formed a venture with PHH, named PHH Home Loans, LLC, for the purpose of originating and selling mortgage loans primarily sourced through our residential real estate brokerage and relocation businesses. We own 49.9% of the venture and PHH owns 50.1%. As a result, our financial results only reflect our proportionate share of the venture’s results of operations which are recorded on the equity method. The venture has a 50-year term, subject to earlier termination upon the occurrence of certain events or at our election at any time after January 31, 2015 by providing two years’ notice to PHH. PHH may terminate the venture upon the occurrence of certain events or, at its option, after January 31, 2030. All mortgage loans originated by the venture are sold to PHH Mortgage or other third party investors, and PHH Home Loans does not hold any mortgage loans for investment purposes or perform servicing functions for any loans it originates. Accordingly, we have no mortgage servicing rights asset risk. The venture commenced operations on October 1, 2005 and we did not receive distributions from the venture in 2005.

Strategic Relationship Agreement.   Simultaneously with the spin-off of PHH, we entered into an agreement with PHH and PHH Home Loans, which agreement contained detailed covenants regarding the relationship of the parties with respect to the operation of PHH Home Loans. Such covenants include:

 

    Recommendation of the PHH Home Loans venture as the exclusive recommended provider of mortgage loans by us to independent sales associates affiliated with our company owned real estate and relocation businesses, the customers of our real estate and relocation businesses and U.S. based Cendant employees; and

 

    Sales of mortgage origination businesses acquired by our company owned real estate brokerage business to PHH Home Loans pursuant to pre-specified pricing parameters.

Marketing Agreements.   We entered into a 25-year marketing agreement with PHH pursuant to which PHH’s mortgage company will be the exclusive recommended provider of mortgage products and services promoted by us to our franchisees.

In addition, PHH’s mortgage company entered into interim marketing services agreements with our company owned real estate brokerage and relocation businesses also providing for recommendation of PHH’s mortgage business. Both of these agreements were terminated on October 31, 2005 in conjunction with the PHH Home Loans venture commencing operations.

Prior to the spin-off of PHH, our relocation business was party to an agreement with PHH, pursuant to which we marketed PHH’s mortgage services to our corporate relocation clients. This agreement was terminated

 

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simultaneously with the execution of the interim marketing agreement referenced above. We were paid approximately $1.5 million, $1.8 million and $1.8 million in marketing fees in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, in connection with this arrangement.

Company Cars .  Through PHH’s vehicle leasing subsidiary, we leased cars for certain executive officers. We paid PHH approximately, $538,000, $478,000 and $255,000 in 2003, 2004 and 2005, respectively.

Transition Services Agreement

Transition Services Provided by Cendant and the Other Separated Companies to Us

Prior to our separation from Cendant, we will enter into a Transition Services Agreement with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company to provide for an orderly transition to being an independent company. Under the Transition Services Agreement, Cendant will agree to provide us with various services, including services relating to human resources and employee benefits, payroll, financial systems management, treasury and cash management, accounts payable services, telecommunications services and information technology services. In certain cases, services provided by Cendant under the Transition Services Agreement may be provided by one of the separated companies following the date of such company’s separation from Cendant.

Under the Transition Services Agreement, the cost of each transition service will generally reflect the same payment terms and will be calculated using the same cost allocation methodologies for the particular service as those associated with the costs on our historical financial statements. The cost of each transition service will be based on either a flat fee or an allocation of the cost incurred by the company providing the service. The Transition Services Agreement is being negotiated in the context of a parent-subsidiary relationship and in the context of the separation of Cendant into four independent companies. Unless specifically indicated below, all services to be provided under the Transition Services Agreement will be provided for a specified period of time, and both parties’ ability to terminate those services in advance without penalty will be limited. After the expiration of the arrangements contained in the Transition Services Agreement, we may not be able to replace these services in a timely manner or on terms and conditions, including cost, as favorable as those we have received from Cendant, or one of the separated companies. We are developing a plan to increase our own internal capabilities in the future to reduce our reliance on Cendant for these services. We will have the right to receive reasonable information with respect to the charges to us by Cendant for transition services provided by Cendant.

The following sets forth a summary of the services that will be provided to us by Cendant or the other separated companies under the Transition Services Agreement and the manner of allocation of costs to us for these services. Also set forth is a description of payments made for such services for the preceding three fiscal years. We believe these allocations approximate the actual costs to Cendant to provide these services.

Human Resources and Employee Benefits.   Cendant provides us with human resources services and related technology solutions and administers Cendant’s compensation, retirement and benefits plans in which we participate. After our separation from Cendant, we will establish our own 401(k), life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment insurance benefit plans, among others. Under the Transition Services Agreement, Cendant, and following the final distribution, Avis Budget Group, Inc., will continue to provide human resources and employee benefits services to support both our existing and newly established plans and programs until December 31, 2006. Cendant has allocated certain of the costs of human resources services (other than those costs related to human resource-related technology solutions) to us based on the number of our employees. After our separation from Cendant, these costs will be allocated to us in this manner under the Transition Services Agreement. For 2005, 2004 and 2003, Cendant allocated the costs of human resource-related technology solutions to us through our share of Cendant’s general corporate overhead, which is discussed below. Following our separation from Cendant, these costs will be allocated to us based on the number of our employees. Our allocated share of the costs of these services was $2.2 million in 2005, $2.0 million in 2004 and $2.3 million in 2003.

 

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Payroll.   Cendant provides us with payroll management services. Under the Transition Services Agreement, Cendant, and following the final distribution, Avis Budget Group, Inc. will continue to provide such services through March 31, 2007, with an option to extend through June 30, 2007. In addition, the Transition Services Agreement will include provisions for tax filings and the distribution of W-2s to our employees for the 2006 tax year. Cendant has allocated the costs of payroll management services to us based on the number of our employees. After our separation from Cendant, these costs will be allocated to us in this manner under the Transition Services Agreement. In addition, we will pay Cendant a one-time management fee of $50,000 to manage the transition of our payroll processing to a third party provider. Our allocated share of the costs of these services was $900,000 in 2005, $800,000 in 2004 and $800,000 in 2003.

Financial Systems Management.   Cendant provides us with financial systems management. Under the Transition Services Agreement, Cendant, and following the final distribution, Avis Budget Group, Inc., will continue to provide us with financial systems management for a period of six months from the completion date of final distribution. For 2005, 2004 and 2003, Cendant allocated the cost of these services to us through our share of Cendant’s general corporate overhead, which is discussed below. After our separation from Cendant, these costs will be allocated to us under the Transition Services Agreement based on resources used and time spent for support services. Following our separation from Cendant, we may need to purchase from various third parties new licenses for software licensed from such parties that we may require to operate our financial management systems.

Treasury and Cash Management.   Cendant provides us with our treasury and cash management services. Under the Transition Services Agreement, Cendant, and following the final distribution, Avis Budget Group, Inc. will continue to provide us with such services through January 31, 2007 with a possible extension through May 1, 2007. Other than during the extension period referenced in the preceding sentence, neither party has early termination rights with respect to these services. For 2005, 2004 and 2003, Cendant allocated the costs of these services to us through our share of Cendant’s general corporate overhead, which is discussed below. After our separation from Cendant, these costs will be allocated to us in this manner under the Transition Services Agreement.

Accounts Payable Services.   Cendant provides us with management of our accounts payable processing. Under the Transition Services Agreement, Cendant, and following the final distribution, Avis Budget Group, Inc. will continue to provide us with management of such processing through December 31, 2006, with the possibility to extend for up to 120 additional days. Cendant has allocated the costs of this service to us based on the number of transactions it processed for us. After our separation from Cendant, these costs will be allocated to us in this manner under the Transition Services Agreement. Our allocated share of costs for this service was approximately $1.9 million in 2005, $2.3 million in 2004 and $2.7 million in 2003.

Telecommunications and Information Technology Services.   Cendant provides us with both (i) telecommunications services, including our local and long distance rate per minute charges, through arrangements it has with third-party providers and (ii) certain information technology support, software, hardware and services, primarily at or from Cendant’s data center in Denver, Colorado, and generally through contracts with its third party licensors and hardware and service providers. Cendant, and following the final distribution, Avis Budget Group, Inc., and its third party contractors and providers will continue providing telecommunication services until third party contracts expire and information technology services including support, software, hardware and services under the Transition Services Agreement for a period of up to two years from the date of the final distribution. Subject to any potential third party contractual limitations and/or termination restrictions or penalties, we may terminate the provision of these services upon 90 days’ prior written notice to Cendant, or Avis Budget Group, Inc., as applicable. In such event, we would be responsible for the repayment to Cendant or Avis Budget Group, Inc., as applicable, of any unamortized computer hardware service charges and software charges and other associated transition and early termination payments. Cendant has allocated the costs for these services to us based on our actual usage and pre-determined rates and the level of

 

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support we receive from Cendant and its service providers. After our separation from Cendant, these costs will be allocated to us in this manner under the Transition Services Agreement. Our allocated share of the costs for these services was $28.9 million in 2005, $27.0 million in 2004 and $22.1 million in 2003.

Transition Services Provided by Us to Cendant and the Other Separated Companies

In connection with the separation, certain operations previously provided by Cendant to us and to Cendant’s other subsidiaries will be transferred to our company. These operations include event marketing, public and regulatory affairs and corporate communications. As a result, pursuant to the Transition Services Agreement, we may provide these services to Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company for a period of time following the distribution as described below.

Event Marketing.   We will provide Cendant and certain of the other separated companies with event marketing services, such as arranging their annual franchisee conventions and other franchisee events, corporate meetings and other events through December 31, 2006. We will continue to allocate the cost of these services to Cendant and the other separated companies based on the number of meetings and the number of attendees at meetings planned by us for Cendant and/or the other separated companies. In addition, we will assume Cendant’s obligation to provide event marketing services to certain former Cendant affiliates under existing transition services arrangements.

Public and Regulatory Affairs.   We will provide Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company with public and regulatory affairs services, including governmental affairs, until December 31, 2007. Cendant and the other newly separate companies will pay for these services based on the time spent in providing such services.

Other Intercompany Relationships between Cendant, the Other Separated Companies and Us

Franchise Agreement Guarantees

Regulations applicable to the offer and sale of franchises require the inclusion of audited financial statements in offering materials delivered to prospective franchisees. As a division of Cendant, we did not have our own audited financial statements. Therefore, Cendant’s audited financial statements, and its guarantee of our obligations under the franchise agreements associated with such offering materials, were included in the offering materials to satisfy the regulations. Accordingly, Cendant historically has guaranteed the performance of our obligations to our franchisees under our franchise agreements. Following our separation from Cendant, we will include our own audited financial statements in the franchise offering materials, and Cendant will no longer provide these guarantees in connection with franchise agreements entered into or replaced after completion of our separation from Cendant.

Subleases and Related Guarantees

Domestically, Cendant has allocated to us the cost of occupying approximately 133,000 rentable square feet within the One Campus Drive complex for our corporate and Realogy franchise operations in Parsippany, New Jersey, 146,000 square feet within 339 Jefferson Road for our real estate brokerage business in Parsippany, New Jersey, and 90,798 square feet in Mission Viejo, California. We pay Cendant rent for the One Campus Drive and Mission Viejo, California locations. We also pay Cendant for other services relating to our Parsippany and Mission Viejo locations, such as access to the cafeteria, maintenance and security. Our rent and related costs under these agreements were $5.7 million in 2005, $5.6 million in 2004 and $5.1 million in 2003. Leases for the One Campus Drive and Mission Viejo locations will be assigned to us at the time of our separation from Cendant. With respect to One Campus Drive, we will enter into short-term sublease arrangements with Cendant, Wyndham Worldwide and the Travel Distribution Services company to permit their personnel to occupy a total of approximately 85,000 rentable square feet of space. It is expected that all subleases will terminate by June 30, 2007.

Internationally, we currently share space in Hammersmith, United Kingdom with Cendant’s Hospitality Services (including Timeshare Resorts) and Travel Distribution Services businesses. At the time of separation,

 

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we will enter into a sublease arrangement with Wyndham Worldwide as sublandlord and Realogy as subtenant for 3,228 rentable square feet. Total annual charges for the sublease are estimated to be $260,000. In addition, we currently share space in Swindon, United Kingdom with Cendant’s Travel Distribution Services business. At the time of separation, we will sublease approximately 3,641 rentable square feet to the Travel Distribution Services company for less than one year with expected sublease income to Realogy of approximately $19,200 per month.

Finally, we currently occupy space on an exclusive basis in fourteen other locations which are currently in Cendant’s name. At the time of separation, Cendant will assign these leases to us on an exclusive basis. Our rent and related costs under these agreements were $12.0 million in 2005, $9.8 million in 2004 and $9.6 million in 2003 which we billed directly to the subsidiaries.

Cendant will remain liable to landlords for all lease obligations pursuant to either guarantee agreements or the assignment provisions of those leases assigned by Cendant to Realogy, unless expressly released from such liability by the relevant landlord. Estimated liabilities associated with these obligations will be declined over an average term of five years.

Preferred Alliance with Suppliers

We participate in Cendant’s preferred alliance programs pursuant to which we designate to franchisees and other third parties various suppliers for particular goods and services. In connection with such programs, Cendant may earn a commission on goods and services purchased from certain preferred vendors under those programs. We expect that the third party agreements where we, and not Cendant or one of its other affiliates, are the primary participant to the relevant agreement will be assigned to us by Cendant prior to our separation from Cendant. We expect that the third party agreements where both we and other Cendant companies are covered by a single agreement will be assigned to us or amended to enable us to become a party to a separate but identical agreement with the third party vendor. For 2005, 2004 and 2003, Cendant allocated the costs of administration of the preferred alliance programs to us through our share of Cendant’s general corporate overhead, which is discussed below.

Revenue Audit Services

Cendant provides us with revenue audit services by internal auditors. Cendant has allocated the cost of these services to us based on the number of audits performed on our business. Our allocated share of the costs for these services was $2.7 million in 2005, $3.1 million in 2004 and $2.8 million in 2003. Since January 2006, the personnel performing revenue audit services for us were transferred to Realogy’s Franchise Services segment and will therefore no longer be billed to us by Cendant.

Marketing

We participate in Cendant’s third party agreements for the purchase of national media advertising. We paid advertising costs directly to the third party vendor. In addition, Cendant allocated the costs of managing these agreements to us through our share of Cendant’s general corporate overhead, which is discussed below. We will need to negotiate our own agreements with media vendors following our separation from Cendant.

Insurance

We have paid, and currently pay, Cendant for a variety of insurance policies. These insurance policies include executive risk coverage, property and casualty, workers compensation, umbrella liability insurance and losses from crime. Cendant generally has allocated the costs of the insurance policies to us based on the number of our employees. We will be required to purchase our own insurance policies upon consummation of our separation from Cendant. Our insurance in the future will be significantly more expensive than the current insurance costs allocated to us by Cendant. Our allocated share of the costs of insurance policies was $12.6

 

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million in 2005, $12.3 million in 2004 and $9.0 million in 2003. In addition, costs for our directors and officers insurance in 2005, 2004 and 2003 were included in our share of Cendant’s general corporate overhead, which is discussed below. We expect our annual costs for insurance policies to increase by approximately $4.0 million, primarily due to the purchase of directors and officers insurance and errors and omissions insurance.

Event Marketing

Cendant provides us with event marketing services, such as arranging our annual franchisee conventions and other franchisee events. Cendant has allocated the cost of these services to us based on the number of meetings and the number of attendees at meetings planned by Cendant for us. Our allocated share of the cost for these services was $700,000 in 2005, $1.0 million in 2004 and $900,000 in 2003. In connection with the distribution, Cendant’s events marketing operations and personnel will be transferred to us, and we will provide these services to Cendant and certain of the separated companies. See “—Transition Services Provided by Us to Cendant and the Other Separated Companies” above.

Public and Regulatory Affairs

Cendant provides us with public and regulatory affairs services, including governmental affairs. For 2005, 2004 and 2003, Cendant allocated the cost of these services to us through our share of Cendant’s general corporate overhead, which is discussed below. In connection with the distribution, Cendant’s public and regulatory affairs operations and personnel will be transferred to us, and we will provide these services to Cendant and the other separated. See “—Transition Services Provided by Us to Cendant and the Other Separated Companies” above.

General Corporate Overhead

In addition to the services discussed above for which costs are directly allocated to us by Cendant, certain corporate services are charged to us through Cendant’s general corporate overhead allocation, which is calculated based on a percentage of our revenues. These services include certain of the services discussed above, which will be provided to us as transition services for a period of time following our separation from Cendant and services, such as corporate purchasing, that we will have to secure for ourselves following the end of the transition services period. Our share of the general corporate overhead was $38.0 million in 2005, $32.6 million in 2004 and $29.8 million in 2003.

Litigation for which we assumed liability pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement

Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, we agreed to be responsible for 50% of the contingent corporate liabilities (and related costs and expenses) related to the Cendant litigation described below.

After the April 15, 1998 announcement of the discovery of accounting irregularities in the former CUC International, Inc. (“CUC”) business units, and prior to the issuance of this information statement, approximately 70 lawsuits claiming to be class actions and other proceedings were commenced against Cendant and other defendants, of which a number of lawsuits have been settled. Approximately six lawsuits remain unresolved in addition to the matters described below.

In Re Cendant Corporation Litigation , Master File No. 98-1664 (WHW) (D.N.J.) (the “Securities Action”), is a consolidated class action brought on behalf of all persons who acquired securities of Cendant and CUC, except the PRIDES securities, between May 31, 1995 and August 28, 1998. Named as defendants are Cendant; 28 current and former officers and directors of Cendant, CUC and HFS Incorporated; and Ernst & Young LLP, CUC’s former independent accounting firm.

The Amended and Consolidated Class Action Complaint in the Securities Action alleges that, among other things, the lead plaintiffs and members of the class were damaged when they acquired securities of Cendant and

 

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CUC because, as a result of accounting irregularities, Cendant’s and CUC’s previously issued financial statements were materially false and misleading, and the allegedly false and misleading financial statements caused the prices of Cendant’s and CUC’s securities to be inflated artificially.

On December 7, 1999, Cendant announced that it had reached an agreement to settle claims made by class members in the Securities Action for approximately $2.85 billion in cash plus 50 percent of any amount Cendant recovers from Ernst & Young as a result of Cendant’s cross-claims against Ernst & Young as described below. This settlement received all necessary court approvals and was fully funded by Cendant on May 24, 2002.

On January 25, 1999, Cendant asserted cross-claims against Ernst & Young that alleged that Ernst & Young failed to follow professional standards to discover and recklessly disregarded the accounting irregularities and is therefore liable to Cendant for damages in unspecified amounts. The cross-claims assert claims for breaches of Ernst & Young’s audit agreements with Cendant, negligence, breaches of fiduciary duty, fraud and contribution. On July 18, 2000, Cendant filed amended cross-claims against Ernst & Young asserting the same claims.

On March 26, 1999, Ernst & Young filed cross-claims against Cendant and certain of Cendant’s present and former officers and directors that alleged that any failure by Ernst & Young to discover the accounting irregularities was caused by misrepresentations and omissions made to Ernst & Young in the course of its audits and other reviews of Cendant’s financial statements. Ernst & Young’s cross-claims assert claims for breach of contract, fraud, fraudulent inducement, negligent misrepresentation and contribution. Damages in unspecified amounts are sought for the costs to Ernst & Young associated with defending the various shareholder lawsuits, lost business it claims is attributable to Ernst & Young’s association with Cendant, and for harm to Ernst & Young’s reputation. On June 4, 2001, Ernst & Young filed amended cross-claims against Cendant asserting the same claims.

Welch & Forbes, Inc. v. Cendant Corp., et al. , No. 98-2819 (WHW) (the “PRIDES Action”), is a consolidated class action filed on behalf of purchasers of Cendant’s PRIDES securities between February 24 and August 28, 1998. Named as defendants are Cendant; Cendant Capital I, a statutory business trust formed by Cendant to participate in the offering of PRIDES securities; 17 current and former officers and directors of Cendant, CUC and HFS; Ernst & Young; and the underwriters for the PRIDES offering, Merrill Lynch & Co., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated; and Chase Securities Inc. The allegations in the Amended Consolidated Complaint in the PRIDES Action are substantially similar to those in the Securities Action.

On March 17, 1999, Cendant entered into an agreement to settle the claims of class members in the PRIDES Action who purchased PRIDES securities on or prior to April 15, 1998. The settlement did not resolve claims based upon purchases of PRIDES on and after April 16, 1998 and, as of December 31, 2001, other than Welch & Forbes, Inc. v. Cendant Corp., et al., which is previously discussed, no purchasers of PRIDES securities after April 16, 1998 have instituted proceedings against Cendant.

On October 28, 2005, Cendant reached a settlement that resolved the claims of class members who purchased PRIDES on and after April 16, 1998. To settle these claims, Cendant has agreed to pay $32.5 million in cash plus 3.5% of any net recovery from litigation Cendant is pursuing against Ernst & Young, LLP, auditors for the former CUC, arising from the accounting irregularities. Interest will accrue on the cash portion of the settlement beginning on January 27, 2006 when the court approved the settlement in all respects at the federal funds rate applicable on that date.

Semerenko v. Cendant Corp., et al. , Civ. Action No. 98-5384 (D.N.J.), and P. Schoenfield Asset Management LLC v. Cendant Corp., et al. , Civ. Action No. 98-4734 (D.N.J.) (the “ABI Actions”), were initially commenced in October and November of 1998, respectively, on behalf of a putative class of persons who purchased securities of American Bankers Insurance Group, Inc. (“ABI”) between January 27, 1998 and October 13, 1998. Named as defendants are Cendant, four former CUC officers and directors and Ernst & Young. The complaints in the ABI actions, as amended on February 8, 1999, assert violations of Sections 10(b),

 

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14(e) and 20(a) of the Exchange Act. The plaintiffs allege that they purchased shares of ABI common stock at prices artificially inflated by the accounting irregularities after Cendant announced a cash tender offer for 51% of ABI’s outstanding shares of common stock in January 1998. Plaintiffs also allege that after the disclosure of the accounting irregularities, Cendant misstated its intention to complete the tender offer and a second step merger pursuant to which the remaining shares of ABI stock were to be acquired by Cendant. Plaintiffs seek, among other things, unspecified compensatory damages. On April 30, 1999, the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey dismissed the complaints on motions of the defendants. In an opinion dated August 10, 2000, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit vacated the district court’s judgment and remanded the ABI Actions for further proceedings. On December 15, 2000, Cendant filed a motion to dismiss those claims based on ABI purchases after April 15, 1998, and the district court granted this motion on May 7, 2001. The plaintiffs subsequently moved for leave to file a Second Amended Complaint to reallege claims based on ABI purchases between April 16, 1998 and October 13, 1998. That motion was denied on August 15, 2002. On January 27, 2004, plaintiffs filed a motion for class certification. Cendant is engaged in settlement discussions related to this matter; however, no assurances can be made that a settlement will be reached.

The settlements and actions described above do not encompass six additional lawsuits asserting claims against Cendant associated with the accounting irregularities. We cannot give any assurance as to the final outcome or resolution of these unresolved proceedings. An adverse outcome from certain unresolved proceedings could be material with respect to earnings in any given reporting period. However, we do not believe that the impact of such unresolved proceedings should result in a material liability to us in relation to our consolidated financial position or liquidity.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

General

The following is a summary of information concerning our capital stock. The summaries and descriptions below do not purport to be complete statements of the relevant provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or of our amended and restated by-laws. The summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to these documents, which you must read for complete information on our capital stock. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws are included as exhibits to our registration statement on Form 10.

Distributions of Securities

In the past three years, we have not sold any securities, including sales of reacquired securities, new issues, securities issued in exchange for property, services, or other securities, and new securities resulting from the modification of outstanding securities, that were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Common Stock

Immediately following the distribution, our authorized capital stock will consist of up to 750 million shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share.

Shares Outstanding .  Immediately following the distribution, we expect that approximately 250 million shares of our common stock will be issued and outstanding.

Dividends .  Subject to prior dividend rights of the holders of any preferred shares, holders of shares of our common stock are entitled to receive dividends when, as and if declared by our Board of Directors out of funds legally available for that purpose.

Voting Rights .  Each share of common stock is entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. Holders of shares of our common stock do not have cumulative voting rights. In other words, a holder of a single share of common stock cannot cast more than one vote for each position to be filled on our Board. A consequence of not having cumulative voting rights is that the holders of a majority of the shares of common stock entitled to vote in the election of directors can elect all directors standing for election, which means that the holders of the remaining shares will not be able to elect any directors.

Other Rights .  In the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our company, after the satisfaction in full of the liquidation preferences of holders of any preferred shares, holders of shares of our common stock are entitled to ratable distribution of the remaining assets available for distribution to stockholders. The shares of our common stock are not subject to redemption by operation of a sinking fund or otherwise. Holders of shares of our common stock are not currently entitled to pre-emptive rights.

Fully Paid .  The issued and outstanding shares of our common stock are fully paid and non-assessable. This means the full purchase price for the outstanding shares of our common stock has been paid and the holders of such shares will not be assessed any additional amounts for such shares. Any additional shares of common stock that we may issue in the future will also be fully paid and non-assessable.

Preferred Stock

We are authorized to issue up to 2.5 million shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share. Our Board, without further action by the holders of our common stock, may issue shares of our preferred stock. Our Board is vested with the authority to fix by resolution the designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and such qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, including, without limitation, redemption rights, dividend rights, liquidation preferences and conversion or exchange rights of any class or series of preferred stock, and to fix the number of classes or series of preferred stock, the number of shares constituting any such class or series and the voting powers for each class or series.

 

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The authority possessed by our Board to issue preferred stock could potentially be used to discourage attempts by third parties to obtain control of our company through a merger, tender offer, proxy contest or otherwise by making such attempts more difficult or more costly. Our Board may issue preferred stock with voting rights or conversion rights that, if exercised, could adversely affect the voting power of the holders of common stock. There are no current agreements or understandings with respect to the issuance of preferred stock and our Board has no present intention to issue any shares of preferred stock.

Restrictions on Payment of Dividends

We are incorporated in Delaware and are governed by Delaware law. Delaware law allows a corporation to pay dividends only out of surplus, as determined under Delaware law.

Anti-takeover Effects of Our Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws and Delaware Law

Some provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws and of Delaware law could make the following more difficult:

 

    acquisition of us by means of a tender offer;

 

    acquisition of us by means of a proxy contest or otherwise; or

 

    removal of our incumbent officers and directors.

These provisions, which are summarized below, are expected to discourage coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids. These provisions are also designed to encourage persons seeking to acquire control of us to first negotiate with our Board. We believe that the benefits of increased protection give us the potential ability to negotiate with the proponent of an unsolicited proposal to acquire or restructure us and outweigh the disadvantages of discouraging those proposals because negotiation of the proposals could result in an improvement of their terms.

Removal of Directors

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that our directors may only be removed for cause and only by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 80% of the voting power of the then outstanding capital stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors. . This system of removing directors may discourage a third party from making a tender offer or otherwise attempting to obtain control of us because it generally makes it more difficult for stockholders to replace a majority of the Board.

Size of Board and Vacancies

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws provide that our Board may consist of no less than three and no more than 15 directors. The number of directors on our Board will be fixed exclusively by our Board, subject to the minimum and maximum number permitted by our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws. Newly created directorships resulting from any increase in our authorized number of directors will be filled by a majority of our Board then in office, provided that a majority of the entire Board, or a quorum, is present and any vacancies in our Board resulting from death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal from office or other cause will be filled generally by the majority vote of our remaining directors in office, even is less than a quorum is present.

Elimination of Stockholder Action by Written Consent

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws expressly eliminate the right of our stockholders to act by written consent. Stockholder action must take place at the annual or a special meeting of our stockholders.

 

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Stockholder Meetings

Under our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws, only our chairman of the board or our chief executive officer may call special meetings of our stockholders.

Requirements for Advance Notification of Stockholder Nominations and Proposals

Our amended and restated by-laws establish advance notice procedures with respect to stockholder proposals and nomination of candidates for election as directors other than nominations made by or at the direction of our Board or a committee of our Board.

Delaware Anti-takeover Law

Upon the distribution, we will be subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, (“DGCL”), an anti-takeover law. In general, Section 203 prohibits a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in a business combination with an interested stockholder for a period of three years following the date such person becomes an interested stockholder, unless the business combination or the transaction in which such person becomes an interested stockholder is approved in a prescribed manner. Generally, a “business combination” includes a merger, asset or stock sale, or other transaction resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. Generally, an “interested stockholder” is a person that, together with affiliates and associates, owns, or within three years prior to the determination of interested stockholder status did own, 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock. The existence of this provision may have an anti-takeover effect with respect to transactions not approved in advance by our Board, and the anti-takeover effect includes discouraging attempts that might result in a premium over the market price for the shares of our common stock.

Supermajority Voting

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that amendments to provisions in the amended and restated certificate of incorporation relating to the general powers of the Board, the number, classes and tenure of directors, filling vacancies on the board, removal of directors, limitation of liability of directors, indemnification of directors and officers, special meetings of stockholders, stockholder action by written consent, the supermajority amendment provision of the amended and restated by-laws and the supermajority amendment provision of the amended and restated certificate of incorporation shall require the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 80% of the voting power of the shares entitled to vote generally in the election of directors. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws provide that amendments to the by-laws may be made either (i) the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the entire Board or (ii) by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 80% of the voting power of the shares entitled to vote generally in the election of directors.

No Cumulative Voting

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws do not provide for cumulative voting in the election of directors.

Undesignated Preferred Stock

The authorization in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation of undesignated preferred stock makes it possible for our Board to issue our preferred stock with voting or other rights or preferences that could impede the success of any attempt to change control of us. The provision in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation authorizing such preferred stock may have the effect of deferring hostile takeovers or delaying changes of control of our management.

Transfer Agent and Registrar

The transfer agent and registrar for our common stock is Mellon Investor Services.

 

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NYSE Listing

We intend to file an application to list our shares of common stock on The New York Stock Exchange, Inc. We expect that our shares will trade under the ticker symbol “H.”

Limitation on Liability of Directors and Indemnification of Directors and Officers

Section 145 of the DGCL provides that a corporation may indemnify directors and officers as well as other employees and individuals against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, in which such person is made a party by reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation (other than an action by or in the right of the corporation—a “derivative action”), if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe such person’s conduct was unlawful. A similar standard is applicable in the case of derivative actions, except that indemnification only extends to expenses (including attorneys’ fees) incurred in connection with the defense or settlement of such action, and the statute requires court approval before there can be any indemnification where the person seeking indemnification has been found liable to the corporation. The statute provides that it is not exclusive of other indemnification that may be granted by a corporation’s by-laws, disinterested director vote, stockholder vote, agreement or otherwise.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that no director shall be liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except as required by the DGCL, as now in effect or as amended. Currently, Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL requires that liability be imposed for the following:

 

    any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to our company or our stockholders;

 

    any act or omission not in good faith or which involved intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law;

 

    unlawful payments of dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions as provided in Section 174 of the DGCL; and

 

    any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws provide that, to the fullest extent authorized or permitted by the DGCL, as now in effect or as amended, we will indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding by reason of the fact that such person, or a person of whom he or she is the legal representative, is or was our director or officer, or while our director or officer is or was serving, at our request, as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, including service with respect to employee benefit plans maintained or sponsored by us. We will indemnify such persons against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred in connection with such action if such person acted in good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in our best interests and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, had no reason to believe such person’s conduct was unlawful. Any amendment of this provision will not reduce our indemnification obligations relating to actions taken before an amendment.

We intend to obtain policies that insure our directors and officers and those of our subsidiaries against certain liabilities they may incur in their capacity as directors and officers. Under these policies, the insurer, on our behalf, may also pay amounts for which we have granted indemnification to the directors or officers.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF MATERIAL INDEBTEDNESS

New Credit Facility

We intend to enter into a new $1,500 million credit facility, which will consist of an $800 million five-year revolving credit facility and a $700 million five-year term loan facility. As the initial terms of the new credit facility have not been agreed, the final terms may differ from those set forth herein and any such differences may be significant.

At or prior to the separation, we intend to draw the entire amount of the term loan facility and $250 million of the revolving credit facility. The proceeds of the term loan facility and the $250 million drawn from the revolving credit facility will be transferred to Cendant solely for the purpose of repaying certain indebtedness of Cendant. The remaining availability under the revolving credit facility will be used to provide liquidity for ongoing working capital needs, letters of credit issuances and other general corporate needs.

A portion of the revolving credit facility not in excess of $400 million will be available for the issuance of letters of credit by JPMorgan Chase Bank and such other lenders selected by us and reasonably acceptable to the administrative agent, and a portion of the revolving credit facility not in excess of $100 million will be available for swingline loans.

We anticipate the new credit facility will include affirmative covenants that are substantially similar to the affirmative covenants in the current Cendant five-year revolver. Negative covenants in the new credit facility will be substantially similar to those contained in the Cendant five-year revolver and will include customary negative covenants for financings of this type and other terms deemed appropriate by the lenders (with exceptions and baskets to be agreed upon). Events of default in the new credit facility will also be substantially similar to those contained in the Cendant five-year revolver and customary for financings of this type.

Interim Loan Facility

We also intend to enter into a $1,225 million interim loan facility which together with our borrowings described above will be used to pay the expected transfer of $2,175 million to Cendant. The interim loan facility will be unsecured and is expected to contain terms substantially similar to those contained in the $1,500 million credit facility described above. The interim loan facility will include a mandatory prepayment provision requiring the repayment of the facility in full upon the entering into of permanent financing to replace such facility.

Relocation Securitization Programs

Our relocation services company, Cendant Mobility Services Corporation, which will be renamed Cartus Corporation, maintains three separate securitization programs to monetize relocation related assets. Cartus provides employee relocation services to corporations and governmental entities in the U.S. and in foreign jurisdictions and these services are provided under relocation management agreements. Under the relocation agreements, the employers agree to pay fees and other amounts for relocation services provided to their employees by Cartus. Relocation services often include the purchasing and selling of a transferred employee’s home and the issuance of home equity advances to the transferred employee which are to be repaid from the proceeds of sale of the employee’s home.

In each relocation receivables securitization program, specific relocation management agreements are designated to the program. Amounts due from the employers under such agreements and amounts due under related contracts, are sold directly or indirectly to a special purpose entity. The special purpose entity issues notes to one or more commercial paper conduit facilities and uses the proceeds to purchase the relocation assets. The liquidity facilities which support the commercial paper are subject to periodic termination and if not renewed

 

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would result in an amortization of the notes. Each program also lists numerous other events, many tied to the characteristics and performance of the contracts and the assets sold into the program, which could, if not remedied within a predefined amount of time, result in an early amortization of the notes and termination of the program. As of December 31, 2005, approximately $757 million was outstanding under these programs, which was secured by approximately $856 million in assets.

Each program is a revolving program. So long as no termination or amortization event has occurred, any new receivables generated under the designated relocation management agreements are sold into the program, and as new relocation management agreements are entered into, the new agreements may also be designated to a specific program.

The first program, which began in 2000, securitizes assets related to certain of Cartus’ U.S. clients and relating to U.S. domestic and international services. The relocation management agreements designated to this program involve assets and receivables arising under relocation management agreements (i) entered into with corporate employers which are obligated to provide reimbursement for losses on the resale of employees’ homes (“not at-risk”) and (ii) which relate to homes located in the United States. Cartus is the servicer for the assets and receivables sold into the securitization. Cendant and Cendant Real Estate Services Group LLC each guaranty the performance of Cartus as originator of the receivables and as servicer. This program currently is limited to providing financing up to $550 million.

The second program, which began in 2002, securitizes assets related to certain of Cartus’ U.S. clients and relating primarily to U.S. services. The relocation agreements designated to this program involve assets and receivables arising under relocation management agreements with U.S. governmental employers and with certain corporate employers which primarily do not provide reimbursement for losses on the resale of employees’ homes (“at-risk”). Cartus is the servicer for the assets and receivables sold into the securitization. Cendant guaranties the performance of Cartus as originator of the receivables and as servicer of the obligations. This program currently is limited to providing financing up to $125 million.

The third program, which began in 2005, securitizes assets related to certain of Cartus’ U.K. clients and relating to U.K. domestic and international services. The relocation agreements designated to this program involve assets and receivables arising under “not at-risk” relocation management agreements with corporate and U.K. governmental employers and which relate to homes located in England and Wales. Cartus, through its subsidiaries, is the servicer for the assets and receivables sold into the securitization. In connection with this program, Cendant has entered into and provides a parent undertaking to cause each of certain of Cartus’ U.K. subsidiaries to perform their respective obligations in relation to the program. This program currently is limited to financing up to a facility limit of £100 million.

Prior to our separation from Cendant, we expect to receive consent from the noteholders to amend the three securitization programs to substitute a performance guaranty of Realogy for that of Cendant and Cendant Real Estate Services Group LLC, as applicable.

 

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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 shares of our common stock that Cendant stockholders will receive in the distribution. This information statement is a part of that registration statement and, as allowed by SEC rules, does not include all of the information you can find in the registration statement or the exhibits to the registration statement. For additional information relating to our company and the distribution, reference is made to the registration statement and the exhibits to the registration statement. Statements contained in this information statement as to the contents of any contract or document referred to are not necessarily complete and in each instance, if the contract or document is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement, we refer you to the copy of the contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement. Each such statement is qualified in all respects by reference to the applicable document.

After the distribution, we will file annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. We intend to furnish our stockholders with annual reports containing consolidated financial statements audited by an independent registered public accounting firm. The registration statement is, and any of these future filings with the SEC will be, available to the public over the Internet on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. You may read and copy any filed document at the SEC’s public reference rooms in Washington, D.C. at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Judiciary Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20549 and at the SEC’s regional offices in New York at 233 Broadway, New York, New York 10279 and in Chicago at Citicorp Center, 500 W. Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60661. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information about the public reference rooms.

We maintain an Internet site at http://www.realogy.com. Our website and the information contained on that site, or connected to that site, are not incorporated into this information statement or the registration statement on Form 10.

 

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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

       Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   F-2

Combined Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003

   F-3

Combined Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2005 and 2004

   F-4

Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003

   F-5

Combined Statements of Invested Equity for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003

   F-6

Notes to Combined Financial Statements

   F-7

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To Cendant Corporation Board of Directors:

We have audited the accompanying combined balance sheets of Realogy Businesses of Cendant Corporation (the “Company”), consisting of certain businesses of Cendant Corporation (“Cendant”), as of December 31, 2005 and 2004, and the related combined statements of income, invested equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2005. These combined financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these combined financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the auditing standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the combined financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, 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. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such combined financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the combined financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2005 and 2004, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2005, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

As discussed in Note 1 to the combined financial statements, the Company is comprised of the assets and liabilities used in managing and operating the real estate services businesses of Cendant. Included in Note 16 of the combined financial statements is a summary of transactions with related parties.

/s/ Deloitte and Touche LLP

Parsippany, New Jersey

April 3, 2006

 

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REALOGY BUSINESSES OF CENDANT CORPORATION

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In millions)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2005     2004     2003  

Revenues

      

Gross commission income

   $ 5,666     $ 5,197     $ 4,307  

Service revenue

     764       707       693  

Franchise fees

     538       477       401  

Other

     171       168       131  
                        

Net revenues

     7,139       6,549       5,532  
                        

Expenses

      

Commission and other agent-related costs

     3,838       3,494       2,869  

Operating

     1,640       1,498       1,346  

Marketing

     282       265       205  

General and administrative

     212       177       180  

Depreciation and amortization

     136       120       110  

Interest income, net of interest expense of $5, $4 and $4

     (7 )     (6 )     (38 )
                        

Total expenses

     6,101       5,548       4,672  
                        

Income before income taxes and minority interest

     1,038       1,001       860  

Provision for income taxes

     408       379       285  

Minority interest, net of tax

     3       4       6  
                        

Net income

   $ 627     $ 618     $ 569  
                        

See Notes to Combined Financial Statements.

 

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REALOGY BUSINESSES OF CENDANT CORPORATION

COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

(In millions)

 

     December 31,
     2005    2004

ASSETS

     

Current assets:

     

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 36    $ 58

Trade receivables (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2 and $3)

     112      119

Relocation receivables and advances

     774      662

Relocation properties held for sale

     97      72

Deferred income taxes

     47      127

Other current assets

     94      76
             

Total current assets

     1,160      1,114

Property and equipment, net

     304      241

Deferred income taxes

     296      257

Goodwill

     3,156      2,911

Franchise agreements, net

     346      363

Trademarks and other intangibles, net

     61      60

Other non-current assets

     116      69
             

Total assets

   $ 5,439    $ 5,015
             

LIABILITIES AND INVESTED EQUITY

     

Current liabilities:

     

Accounts payable

   $ 130    $ 128

Secured obligations

     757      400

Due to Cendant, net

     440      386

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     492      497
             

Total current liabilities

     1,819      1,411

Non-current liabilities

     53      52
             

Total liabilities

     1,872      1,463
             

Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)

     

Invested equity:

     

Parent Company’s net investment

     3,563      3,545

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     4      7
             

Total invested equity

     3,567      3,552
             

Total liabilities and invested equity

   $ 5,439    $ 5,015
             

See Notes to Combined Financial Statements.

 

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REALOGY BUSINESSES OF CENDANT CORPORATION

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In millions)

 

       Year Ended December 31,  
     2005     2004     2003  

Operating Activities

      

Net income

   $ 627     $ 618     $ 569  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

      

Depreciation and amortization

     136       120       110  

Deferred income taxes

     39       31       (123 )

Net change in assets and liabilities, excluding the impact of acquisitions and dispositions:

      

Trade receivables

     9       7       (34 )

Relocation receivables and advances

     (117 )     (18 )     (76 )

Relocation properties held for sale

     (26 )     1       7  

Income taxes payable to Cendant

     350       336       398  

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     (2 )     (21 )     23  

Other, net

     (49 )     (35 )     39  
                        

Net cash provided by operating activities

     967       1,039       913  
                        

Investing Activities

      

Property and equipment additions

     (131 )     (87 )     (61 )

Net assets acquired (net of cash acquired) and acquisition-related payments

     (262 )     (259 )     (141 )

Investment in PHH Home Loans, LLC

     (33 )            

(Increase) decrease in restricted cash

     5       67       (8 )

Other, net

     (2 )     8       (3 )
                        

Net cash used in investing activities

     (423 )     (271 )     (213 )
                        

Financing Activities

      

Principal payments on borrowings

                 (375 )

Net change in secured borrowings

     357             (80 )

Net intercompany funding from (to) parent

     (926 )     (688 )     (194 )

Dividends paid to Cendant

           (38 )     (4 )

Other, net

     3       (15 )     (53 )
                        

Net cash used in financing activities

     (566 )     (741 )     (706 )
                        

Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents

                 1  
                        

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (22 )     27       (5 )

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     58       31       36  
                        

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

   $ 36     $ 58     $ 31  
                        

Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information

      

Interest payments

   $ 30     $ 17     $ 4  

Income tax payments, net

   $ 17     $ 8     $ 6  

See Notes to Combined Financial Statements.

 

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REALOGY BUSINESSES OF CENDANT CORPORATION

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF INVESTED EQUITY

(In millions)

 

       Parent
Company’s
Net Investment
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
    Total
Invested
Equity
 

Balance at January 1, 2003

   $ 2,404     $ 1     $ 2,405  

Comprehensive income:

      

Net income

     569          

Currency translation adjustment

           3    

Total comprehensive income

                 572  

Dividends paid to Cendant

     (4 )           (4 )
                        

Balance at December 31, 2003

     2,969       4       2,973  

Comprehensive income:

      

Net income

     618          

Currency translation adjustment

           3    

Total comprehensive income

                 621  

Dividends paid to Cendant

     (38 )           (38 )

Distribution of capital to Cendant

     (4 )           (4 )
                        

Balance at December 31, 2004

     3,545       7       3,552  

Comprehensive income:

      

Net income

     627          

Currency translation adjustment

           (3 )  

Total comprehensive income

                 624  

Distribution of capital to Cendant

     (609 )           (609 )
                        

Balance at December 31, 2005

   $ 3,563     $ 4     $ 3,567  
                        

 

See Notes to Combined Financial Statements.

 

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REALOGY BUSINESSES OF CENDANT CORPORATION

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unless otherwise noted, all amounts are in millions, except per share amounts)

 

1. Basis of Presentation

The Realogy businesses of Cendant Corporation (“Realogy”) represent a combined reporting entity comprised of the assets and liabilities used in managing and operating the real estate services businesses of Cendant Corporation (“Cendant”). On October 23, 2005, Cendant’s Board of Directors preliminarily approved a plan to separate Cendant into four independent, publicly traded companies—one for each of Cendant’s real estate services, travel distribution services, hospitality services (including timeshare resorts) and vehicle rental businesses. See Note 18—Subsequent Events for further detail.

The accompanying Combined Financial Statements include the accounts and transactions of Realogy, the entities in which Realogy directly or indirectly has a controlling financial interest and various entities in which Realogy has investments recorded under the equity method of accounting (collectively, the “Company”). The accompanying Combined Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in the Combined Financial Statements. For more detailed information regarding the Company’s consolidation/combination policy, refer to Note 2—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

The Company’s combined results of operations, financial position and cash flows may not be indicative of its future performance and do not necessarily reflect what its combined results of operations, financial position and cash flows would have been had the Company operated as a separate, stand-alone entity during the periods presented, including changes in its operations and capitalization as a result of the separation and distribution from Cendant.

Certain corporate and general and administrative expenses, including those related to executive management, tax, accounting, legal and treasury services, certain employee benefits and real estate usage for common space have been allocated by Cendant to the Company based on forecasted revenues. Management believes such allocations are reasonable. However, the associated expenses recorded by the Company in the accompanying Combined Statements of Income may not be indicative of the actual expenses that would have been incurred had the Company been operating as a separate, stand-alone public company for the periods presented. Following the separation and distribution from Cendant, the Company will perform these functions using internal resources or purchased services, certain of which may be provided by Cendant during a transitional period pursuant to the Transition Services Agreement. Refer to Note 16—Related Party Transactions for a detailed description of the Company’s transactions with Cendant.

In presenting the Combined Financial Statements, management makes estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported and related disclosures. Estimates, by their nature, are based on judgment and available information. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates.

Business Description

The Company operates in the following business segments:

 

    Real Estate Franchise Services —franchises the Century 21, Coldwell Banker, ERA, Sotheby’s International Realty and Coldwell Banker Commercial brand names.

 

    Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services —operates a full-service real estate brokerage business principally under the Coldwell Banker, ERA, Corcoran Group and Sotheby’s International Realty brand names.

 

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    Relocation Services —primarily offers clients employee relocation services such as home sale assistance, home finding and other destination services, expense processing, relocation policy counseling and other consulting services, arranging household goods moving services, visa and immigration support, intercultural and language training and group move management services.

 

    Title and Settlement Services —provides full-service title, settlement and vendor management services to real estate companies, affinity groups, corporations and financial institutions with many of these services provided in connection with the Company’s real estate brokerage and relocation services business.

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

C ONSOLIDATION P OLICY

The Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) No. 46 (Revised 2003), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” (“FIN 46”) in its entirety as of December 31, 2003.

The adoption of FIN 46 did not have a significant impact on the Company’s earnings, financial position or cash flows. However, during 2003, the underlying structure of Cendant Mobility Client-Backed Relocation Receivables Funding LLC (the “Relocation Funding Entity”), formerly, Apple Ridge Funding LLC, an entity utilized to securitize relocation receivables and other relocation assets was amended in a manner that resulted in this entity no longer meeting the criteria to qualify as an off-balance sheet entity. Consequently, the Company consolidated the Relocation Funding Entity on November 26, 2003.

Current Policy. In connection with FIN 46, when evaluating an entity for consolidation, the Company first determines whether an entity is within the scope of FIN 46 and if it is deemed to be a variable interest entity (“VIE”). If the entity is considered to be a VIE, the Company determines whether it would be considered the entity’s primary beneficiary. The Company consolidates those VIEs for which it has determined that it is the primary beneficiary. Generally, the Company will consolidate an entity not deemed either a VIE or qualifying special purpose entity (“QSPE”) upon a determination that its ownership, direct or indirect, exceeds fifty percent of the outstanding voting shares of an entity and/or that it has the ability to control the financial or operating policies through its voting rights, board representation or other similar rights. For entities where the Company does not have a controlling interest (financial or operating), the investments in such entities are classified as available-for-sale debt securities or accounted for using the equity or cost method, as appropriate. The Company applies the equity method of accounting when it has the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies of an investee in accordance with Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 18, “The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock.”

Previous Policy. Prior to the adoption of FIN 46, the Company did not consolidate special purpose entities (“SPEs”) and SPE-type entities unless the Company retained both control of the assets transferred and the risks and rewards of those assets. Additionally, non-SPE-type entities were only consolidated if the Company’s ownership exceeded fifty percent of the outstanding voting shares of an entity and/or if the Company had the ability to control the financial or operating policies of an entity through its voting rights, board representation or other similar rights.

R EVENUE R ECOGNITION

Real Estate Franchise Services

The Company franchises its real estate brokerage franchise systems to real estate brokerage businesses that are independently owned and operated. The Company provides operational and administrative services, tools and systems to franchisees, which are designed to assist franchisees in achieving increased revenue and profitability. Such services include national and local advertising programs, listing and agent-recruitment tools, training and volume purchasing discounts through the Company’s preferred vendor program. Franchise revenue principally consists of royalty and

 

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marketing fees from the Company’s franchisees. The royalty received is primarily based on a percentage of the franchisee’s commissions and/or gross commission income. Royalty fees are accrued as the underlying franchisee revenue is earned (upon close of the home sale transaction). Annual volume incentives given to certain franchisees on royalty fees are recorded as a reduction to revenue and are accrued for in relative proportion to the recognition of the underlying gross franchise revenue. Franchise revenue also includes initial franchise fees, which are generally non-refundable and recognized by the Company as revenue when all material services or conditions relating to the sale have been substantially performed (generally when a franchised unit opens for business). The Company also earns marketing fees from its franchisees and utilizes such fees to fund advertising campaigns on behalf of its franchisees. In arrangements under which the Company does not serve as an agent in coordinating advertising campaigns, marketing revenues are accrued as the revenue is earned, which occurs as related marketing expenses are incurred. The Company does not recognize revenues or expenses in connection with marketing fees it collects under arrangements in which it functions as an agent on behalf of its franchisees.

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

As an owner-operator of real estate brokerages, the Company assists home buyers and sellers in listing, marketing, selling and finding homes. Real estate commissions earned by the Company’s real estate brokerage business are recorded as revenue on a gross basis upon the closing of a real estate transaction (i.e., purchase or sale of a home), which are referred to as gross commission income. The commissions the Company pays to real estate agents are recognized concurrently with associated revenues and presented as commission and other agent-related costs line item on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income.

Relocation Services

The Company provides relocation services to corporate and government clients for the transfer of their employees. Such services include the purchasing and/or selling of a transferee’s home, providing home equity advances to transferees (generally guaranteed by the corporate client), expense processing, arranging household goods moving services, home-finding and other related services. The Company earns revenues from fees charged to clients for the performance and/or facilitation of these services and recognizes such revenue on a net basis as services are provided, except for instances in which the Company assumes the risk of loss on the sale of a transferring employee’s home. In such cases, revenues are recorded on a gross basis as earned with associated costs recorded within operating expenses. In the majority of relocation transactions, the gain or loss on the sale of a transferee’s home is generally borne by the client; however, as discussed above, in certain instances the Company will assume the risk of loss. When the risk of loss is assumed, the Company records the value of the home on its Combined Balance Sheets within the relocation properties held for sale line item at net realizable value less estimated direct costs to sell. The difference between the actual purchase price and proceeds received on the sale of the home is recorded within operating expenses on the Company’s Combined Statements of Income and was not material for any period presented. The aggregate selling price of such homes was $694 million, $651 million and $553 million for 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

Additionally, the Company generally earns interest income on the funds it advances on behalf of the transferring employee, which is recorded within other revenue in the accompanying Combined Statements of Income as earned until the point of repayment by the client. The Company also earns revenue from real estate brokers, which is recognized at the time its obligations are complete, and revenues from other third-party service providers where the Company earns a referral fee or commission, which is recognized at the time of completion of services.

Title and Settlement Services

The Company provides title and closing services, which include title search procedures for title insurance policies, home sale escrow and other closing services. Title revenues, which are recorded net of amounts remitted to third party insurance underwriters, and title and closing service fees are recorded at the time a home sale transaction or refinancing closes.

 

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I NCOME T AXES

The Company’s operations have been included in the consolidated federal tax return of Cendant and will continue to be included up to the date of the separation. In addition, the Company has filed consolidated and unitary state income tax returns with Cendant in jurisdictions where required or permitted and will continue to file with Cendant up to the date of the separation. The income taxes associated with the Company’s inclusion in Cendant’s consolidated federal and state income tax returns are included in the due to Cendant, net line item on the accompanying Combined Balance Sheets. The provision for income taxes is computed as if the Company filed its federal and state income tax returns on a stand-alone basis and, therefore, determined using the asset and liability method, under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated based upon the temporary differences between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities using currently enacted tax rates. These differences are based upon estimated differences between the book and tax basis of the assets and liabilities for the Company as of December 31, 2005 and 2004. The Company’s tax assets and liabilities may be adjusted in connection with the finalization of Cendant’s prior years’ income tax returns.

The Company’s deferred tax assets are recorded net of a valuation allowance when, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the recorded deferred tax assets will not be realized in future periods. Decreases to the valuation allowance are recorded as reductions to the Company’s provision for income taxes and increases to the valuation allowance result in additional provision for income taxes. However, if the valuation allowance is adjusted in connection with an acquisition, such adjustment is recorded through goodwill rather than the provision for income taxes. The realization of the Company’s deferred tax assets, net of the valuation allowance, is primarily dependant on estimated future taxable income. A change in the Company’s estimate of future taxable income may require an addition or reduction to the valuation allowance.

C ASH AND C ASH E QUIVALENTS

The Company considers highly-liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

R ESTRICTED C ASH

Restricted cash primarily relates to amounts specifically designated as collateralization for the repayment of outstanding borrowings under the Company’s secured borrowing facilities. Such amounts approximated $19 million and $24 million at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively and were included with the other current assets line item on the Company’s Combined Balance Sheets.

D ERIVATIVE I NSTRUMENTS

The Company uses derivative instruments from time to time as part of its overall strategy to manage its exposure to market risks primarily associated with foreign currency fluctuations. As a matter of policy, the Company does not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. All derivatives are recorded at fair value either as assets or liabilities. Changes in fair value of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments are recognized currently in earnings and included as a component of other revenues in the Combined Statements of Income. Substantially all of the Company’s derivatives consist of foreign currency forward contracts, which are not designated as hedging instruments.

I NVESTMENTS

At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company had various equity method investments aggregating $51 million and $12 million, respectively, which are primarily recorded under the equity method of accounting within other non-current assets on the accompanying Combined Balance Sheets. Included in such investments is a 49.9% interest in PHH Home Loans, LLC (“PHH Home Loans”), a mortgage origination venture formed in 2005 in connection with Cendant’s spin-off of PHH Corporation (“PHH”) in January 2005. This venture enables

 

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the Company to participate in the earnings generated from mortgages originated by customers of its real estate brokerage and relocation businesses. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss with respect to its investment in PHH Home Loans is limited to its $31 million equity investment. See Note 16—Related Party Transactions for a more detailed description of the Company’s relationship with PHH Home Loans.

During 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company recorded earnings on its equity method investments of $4 million, $3 million and $4 million, respectively, within other revenues on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income.

P ROPERTY AND E QUIPMENT

Property and equipment (including leasehold improvements) are recorded at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation, recorded as a component of depreciation and amortization on the Combined Statements of Income, is computed utilizing the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Amortization of leasehold improvements, also recorded as a component of depreciation and amortization, is computed utilizing the straight-line method over the estimated benefit period of the related assets or the lease term, if shorter. Useful lives are 30 years for buildings, up to 20 years for leasehold improvements and from 3 to 7 years for furniture, fixtures and equipment.

The Company capitalizes the costs of software developed for internal use in accordance with Statement of Position No. 98-1, “Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use.” Capitalization of software developed for internal use commences during the development phase of the project. The Company amortizes software developed or obtained for internal use on a straight-line basis, from 3 to 8 years, when such software is substantially ready for use. The net carrying value of software developed or obtained for internal use was $75 million and $60 million at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively.

I MPAIRMENT OF L ONG -L IVED A SSETS

In connection with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” the Company is required to assess goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually, or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. The Company assesses goodwill for such impairment by comparing the carrying value of its reporting units to their fair values. Each of the Company’s reportable segments represents a reporting unit. The Company determines the fair value of its reporting units utilizing discounted cash flows and incorporates assumptions that it believes marketplace participants would utilize. When available and as appropriate, the Company uses comparative market multiples and other factors to corroborate the discounted cash flow results. Other indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment and written down to fair value, as required by SFAS No. 142.

The Company evaluates the recoverability of its other long-lived assets, including amortizing intangible assets, if circumstances indicate an impairment may have occurred pursuant to SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” This analysis is performed by comparing the respective carrying values of the assets to the current and expected future cash flows, on an undiscounted basis, to be generated from such assets. Property and equipment is evaluated separately within each business. If such analysis indicates that the carrying value of these assets is not recoverable, the carrying value of such assets is reduced to fair value through a charge to the Company’s Combined Statements of Income.

The Company performs its annual impairment testing in the fourth quarter of each year subsequent to completing its annual forecasting process. In performing this test, the Company determines fair value using the present value of expected future cash flows. There were no impairments relating to intangible assets or other long-lived assets during 2005, 2004 or 2003.

A CCUMULATED O THER C OMPREHENSIVE I NCOME (L OSS )

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consists only of accumulated foreign currency translation adjustments. Foreign currency translation adjustments exclude income taxes related to indefinite investments in foreign subsidiaries.

 

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S TOCK -B ASED C OMPENSATION

As of December 31, 2005, all employee stock awards were granted by Cendant. Prior to January 1, 2003, Cendant measured its stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value approach under APB Opinion No. 25, as permitted by SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.”

On January 1, 2003, Cendant adopted the fair value method of accounting for stock-based compensation provisions of SFAS No. 123. Cendant also adopted SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—Transition and Disclosure,” in its entirety on January 1, 2003, which amended SFAS No. 123 to provide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting provisions. As a result, Cendant expenses all employee stock awards over their vesting periods based upon the fair value of the award on the date of grant. As Cendant elected to use the prospective transition method, Cendant allocated expense to the Company for only employee stock awards that were granted subsequent to December 31, 2002. See Note 12 – Stock-Based Compensation for the pro forma stock-based compensation table.

 

3. Acquisitions

Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations were recorded on the Company’s Combined Balance Sheets as of the respective acquisition dates based upon their estimated fair values at such dates. The results of operations of businesses acquired by the Company have been included in the Company’s Combined Statements of Income since their respective dates of acquisition. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the underlying assets acquired (which primarily represent intangible assets) and liabilities assumed was allocated to goodwill. In certain circumstances, the allocations of the excess purchase price are based upon preliminary estimates and assumptions. Accordingly, the allocations may be subject to revision when the Company receives final information, including appraisals and other analyses. Any revisions to the fair values, which may be significant, will be recorded by the Company as further adjustments to the purchase price allocations. The Company is also in the process of integrating the operations of its acquired businesses and expects to incur costs relating to such integrations. These costs may result from integrating operating systems, relocating employees, closing facilities, reducing duplicative efforts and exiting and consolidating other activities. These costs will be recorded on the Company’s Combined Balance Sheets as adjustments to the purchase price or on the Company’s Combined Statements of Income as expenses, as appropriate.

In connection with the Company’s acquisition of real estate brokerage operations, the Company obtains contractual pendings and listings intangible assets, which represent the estimated fair values of homesale transactions that are pending closing or homes listed for sale by the acquired brokerage operations. Pendings and listings intangible assets are amortized over the estimated closing period of the underlying contracts and homes listed for sale, which is generally four to five months.

During 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company made earnout payments of $18 million, $16 million and $8 million, respectively, in connection with previously acquired businesses.

Pending Acquisition

American Title Company of Houston, Texas American Title Company, Title Resources Guaranty Company and related entities . On November 2, 2005, the Company announced a definitive agreement to acquire multiple title companies in Texas in a single transaction for $93 million in cash plus a $10 million (subject to potential downward adjustment) note payable within two years of the closing date. These entities provide title and closing services, including title searches, title insurance, home sale escrow and other closing services. The transaction closed on January 6, 2006 (see Note 18 – Subsequent Events).

2005 A CQUISITIONS

Success Realty, Inc. On September 15, 2005, the Company acquired Success Realty, Inc., a real estate brokerage, for approximately $98 million in cash. This acquisition resulted in goodwill (based on the preliminary allocation of the purchase price) of $82 million, all of which is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. Such

 

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goodwill was assigned to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment. This acquisition also resulted in the recognition of $13 million of other intangible assets. Management believes that this acquisition expanded its geographical presence into a growing market.

During 2005, the Company also acquired 31 other real estate brokerage operations through NRT for approximately $139 million of cash, in the aggregate, which resulted in goodwill (based on the preliminary allocation of the purchase price) of $124 million that was assigned to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment, of which $60 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. These acquisitions also resulted in the recognition of $13 million of other intangible assets. The acquisition of real estate brokerages by NRT is a core part of its growth strategy. In addition, the Company acquired 5 other individually insignificant businesses during 2005, for aggregate consideration of approximately $2 million in cash, which resulted in goodwill of $2 million that was assigned to the Title and Settlement Services segment, $1 million of which is expected to deductible for tax purposes.

These acquisitions were not significant to the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows on a proforma basis individually or in the aggregate. The Company continues to gather information concerning the valuation of identified intangible assets and their associated lives in connection with these acquisitions.

2004 A CQUISITIONS

Sotheby’s International Realty. On February 17, 2004, the Company acquired the domestic residential real estate brokerage operations of Sotheby’s International Realty and obtained the rights to create a Sotheby’s International Realty franchise system pursuant to an agreement to license the Sotheby’s International Realty brand in exchange for a license fee to Sotheby’s Holdings, Inc., the former parent of Sotheby’s International Realty. Such license agreement has a 50-year initial term and a 50-year renewal option. The total cash purchase price for these transactions was approximately $100 million. These transactions resulted in goodwill of $51 million, of which $49 million and $2 million was assigned to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment and Real Estate Franchise Services segment, respectively. All of this goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. These transactions also resulted in the recognition of $50 million of other intangible assets. Management believes that this acquisition enhances the Company’s role in the market place as a premier real estate brokerage firm and increases exposure to high net worth families throughout the United States.

During 2004, the Company also acquired 21 other real estate brokerage operations for approximately $115 million of cash, in the aggregate, which resulted in goodwill of approximately $101 million that was assigned to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment, of which $95 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. These acquisitions also resulted in the recognition of $13 million of other intangible assets. In addition, the Company acquired one other insignificant business, during 2004 for consideration of approximately $11 million in cash, which resulted in goodwill of $9 million that was assigned to the Relocation Services segment, none of which is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

These acquisitions were not significant to the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows on a proforma basis individually or in the aggregate.

2003 A CQUISITIONS

During 2003, the Company acquired 19 real estate brokerage operations for approximately $109 million of cash, which resulted in goodwill of $96 million that was assigned to the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment, of which $80 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. These acquisitions also resulted in the recognition of $14 million of other intangible assets.

These acquisitions were not significant to the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows on a proforma basis individually or in the aggregate.

 

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4. Intangible Assets

Intangible assets consisted of:

 

       As of December 31, 2005    As of December 31, 2004
    

Gross

Carrying

Amount

  

Accumulated

Amortization

  

Net

Carrying

Amount

  

Gross

Carrying

Amount

  

Accumulated

Amortization

  

Net

Carrying

Amount

                 
                 

Amortized Intangible Assets

                 

Franchise agreements (a)

   $ 511    $ 165    $ 346    $ 511    $ 148    $ 363

License agreement (b)

     47      3      44      47      2      45

Pendings and listings (c)

     18      13      5      5      2      3

Other (d)

     10      4      6      9      3      6
                                         
   $ 586    $ 185    $ 401    $ 572    $ 155    $ 417
                                         

Unamortized Intangible Assets

                 

Goodwill

   $ 3,156          $ 2,911      
                         

Trademarks (e)

   $ 6          $ 6      
                         

(a) Generally amortized over a period of 35 or 40 years.
(b) Amortized over 50 years (the contractual term of the license agreement).
(c) Generally amortized over 4 to 5 months (the closing period of the underlying contracts).
(d) Generally amortized over periods ranging from 5 to 10 years.
(e) Relates to the Coldwell Banker tradename, which is expected to generate future cash flows for an indefinite period of time.

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill are as follows:

 

    

Balance at

January 1,

2005

  

Goodwill

Acquired

during

2005

   

Adjustments

to Goodwill

Acquired

during

2004

   

Foreign

Exchange

and

Other

   

Balance at

December 31,

2005

           
           
           

Real Estate Franchise Services

   $ 685    $     $     $     $ 685

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

     2,155      206 (a)     6 (c)     33 (d)     2,400

Relocation Services

     52                  (2 ) (e)     50

Title and Settlement Services

     19      2 (b)                 21
                                     

Total Company

   $ 2,911    $ 208     $ 6     $ 31     $ 3,156
                                     

(a) Relates to the acquisitions of real estate brokerages by NRT (January 2005 and forward).
(b) Relates to the acquisitions of title and appraisal businesses (February 2005 and forward).
(c) Relates to the acquisitions of real estate brokerages by NRT (January 2004 through December 2004), including earnout payments.
(d) Relates to the change in the tax basis of acquired assets and earnout payments for acquisitions of real estate brokerages by NRT prior to 2004.
(e) Relates to foreign exchange translation adjustments.

Amortization expense relating to all intangible assets was as follows:

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
     2005    2004    2003

Franchise agreements

   $ 17    $ 17    $ 17

License agreement

     1      2     

Pendings and listings

     23      16      17

Other

     1      2      1
                    

Total (*)

   $ 42    $ 37    $ 35
                    

(*) Included as a component of depreciation and amortization on the Company’s Combined Statements of Income.

 

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Based on the Company’s amortizable intangible assets as of December 31, 2005, the Company expects related amortization expense for the five succeeding fiscal years to approximate $25 million, $15 million, $15 million, $15 million and $15 million in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010, respectively.

 

5. Franchising and Marketing Activities

Franchise fee revenue of $538 million, $477 million and $401 million on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income for 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, include initial franchise fees of $9 million, $8 million and $6 million, respectively, and are net of annual volume incentives of $115 million, $104 million and $80 million, respectively, provided to real estate brokers. The Company’s real estate franchisees may receive incentives on their royalty payments. Such annual incentives are based upon the amount of commission income earned during a calendar year. Each brand has several annual incentive schedules currently in effect.

The Company’s wholly-owned real estate brokerage firm, NRT, continues to pay royalties to the Company’s franchise business; however, such amounts are eliminated in consolidation and, therefore, not reflected in the above table. During 2005, 2004 and 2003, NRT paid royalties of $369 million, $341 million and $288 million, respectively, to the franchise business.

Marketing fees are paid by the Company’s real estate franchisees and are calculated based on a specified percentage of gross closed commissions earned on the sale of real estate, subject to certain minimum and maximum payments. Such fees approximated $44 million, $52 million and $31 million in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, and are recorded within the other revenue line item on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income. As provided for in the franchise agreements and generally at the Company’s discretion, all of these fees are to be expended for marketing purposes.

The number of franchised and Company Owned outlets in operation are as follows:

 

    

(Unaudited)

As of December 31,

     2005    2004    2003

Franchised:

        

Century 21

   7,879    7,222    6,628

ERA

   2,811    2,601    2,474

Coldwell Banker

   2,892    2,769    2,595

Coldwell Banker Commercial

   163    107    87

Sotheby’s International Realty

   172    22   
              
   13,917    12,721    11,784
              

Company Owned:

        

ERA

   30    30    31

Coldwell Banker

   943    883    891

Corcoran/Other

   61    59    34

Sotheby’s International Realty

   48    27   
              
   1,082    999    956
              

 

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The number of franchised outlets (in the aggregate) changed as follows:

 

       (Unaudited)  
     2005     2004     2003  

Franchised:

      

Beginning balance

   12,721     11,784     11,700  

Additions

   1,845     1,574     1,263  

Terminations

   (649 )   (637 )   (1,179 )
                  

Ending balance

   13,917     12,721     11,784  
                  

Company Owned:

      

Beginning balance

   999     956     966  

Additions

   108     82     72  

Closures

   (25 )   (39 )   (82 )
                  

Ending balance

   1,082     999     956  
                  

As of December 31, 2005, there were an insignificant amount of applications awaiting approval for execution of new franchise agreements. Additionally, as of December 31, 2005, there was an insignificant number of franchise agreements pending termination.

In connection with ongoing fees the Company receives from its franchisees pursuant to the franchise agreements, the Company is required to provide certain services, such as training and marketing. In order to assist franchisees in converting to one of the Company’s brands or in franchise expansion, the Company may also, at its discretion, provide development advances to franchisees who are either new or who are expanding their operations. Provided the franchisee meets certain minimum annual thresholds during the term of the development advance, and is in compliance with the terms of the franchise agreement, the amount of the development advance is forgiven annually in equal ratable amounts (typically nine years). Otherwise, related principal is due and payable to the Company. In certain instances, the Company may earn interest on unpaid franchisee development advances, which was not significant during 2005, 2004 or 2003. The amount of such development advances recorded on the Company’s Combined Balance Sheets was $76 million and $66 million at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. These amounts are principally classified within the other non-current assets line item on the Company’s Combined Balance Sheets. During 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company recorded $13 million, $11 million and $8 million, respectively, of expense related to the forgiveness of these advances. Such amounts are recorded within the operating expense line item on the Company’s Combined Statements of Income.

 

6. Income Taxes

The income tax provision consists of the following for the year ended December 31:

 

       2005    2004     2003  

Current

       

Federal

   $ 320    $ 281     $ 344  

State

     48      66       63  

Foreign

     1      1       1  
                       
     369      348       408  
                       

Deferred

       

Federal

     19      52       (93 )

State

     18      (20 )     (28 )

Foreign

     2      (1 )     (2 )
                       
     39      31       (123 )
                       

Provision for income taxes

   $ 408    $ 379     $ 285  
                       

 

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Pre-tax income for domestic and foreign operations consisted of the following for the year ended December 31:

 

       2005    2004    2003  

Domestic

   $ 1,037    $ 1,001    $ 861  

Foreign

     1           (1 )
                      

Pre-tax income

   $ 1,038    $ 1,001    $ 860  
                      

Current and non-current deferred income tax assets and liabilities, as of December 31, are comprised of the following:

 

       2005     2004  

Current deferred income tax assets:

    

Accrued liabilities and deferred income

   $ 41     $ 35  

Provision for doubtful accounts and relocation properties held for sale

     7       7  

Net operating loss carryforwards

     5       93  

Change in reserves

     1       1  

Other

     1       2  

Valuation allowance (*)

     (4 )     (8 )
                

Current deferred income tax assets

     51       130  
                

Current deferred income tax liabilities:

    

Prepaid expenses

     2       3  

Acquisition and integration-related liabilities

     2        
                

Current deferred income tax liabilities

     4       3  
                

Current net deferred income tax asset

   $ 47     $ 127  
                

Non-current deferred income tax assets:

    

Net operating loss carryforwards

   $ 18     $ 45  

Alternative minimum tax credit carryforward

     28       4  

Accrued liabilities and deferred income

     97       3  

Depreciation and amortization

     157       211  

State tax credits

     2       2  

Other

     1       2  

Valuation allowance (*)

     (7 )     (10 )
                

Non-current deferred income tax assets

   $ 296     $ 257  
                

(*) The valuation allowance of $11 million at December 31, 2005 relates to state net operating loss carryforwards. The valuation allowance will be reduced when and if the Company determines that the deferred income tax assets are more likely than not to be realized.

As of December 31, 2005, the Company had federal net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $10 million, which expire in 2024. No provision has been made for U.S. federal deferred income taxes on approximately $15 million of accumulated and undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries at December 31, 2005 since it is the present intention of management to reinvest the undistributed earnings indefinitely in those foreign operations. The determination of the amount of unrecognized U.S. federal deferred income tax liability for unremitted earnings is not practicable.

 

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The Company’s effective income tax rate differs from the U.S. federal statutory rate as follows for the year ended December 31:

 

       2005     2004     2003  

Federal statutory rate

   35.0 %   35.0 %   35.0 %

State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefits

   4.2     3.0     3.0  

Mandatorily redeemable preferred interest

           (3.9 )

Other

   0.1     (0.1 )   (1.0 )
                  
   39.3 %   37.9 %   33.1 %
                  

The Company and Cendant’s income tax returns are periodically examined by various tax authorities. The Company and Cendant are currently under audit by several tax authorities. In connection with these and future examinations, certain tax authorities, including the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), may raise issues and impose additional assessments. The Company and Cendant regularly evaluate the likelihood of additional assessments resulting from these examinations and establish reserves, through the provision for income taxes for potential amounts that may result therefrom. Reserves are adjusted as information becomes available or when an event requiring a change to the reserve occurs. The resolution of tax matters could have a material impact on the Company’s effective tax rate and results of operations.

The Company and Cendant are subject to income taxes in the United States and several foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining the worldwide provision for income taxes and recording related assets and liabilities. In the ordinary course of business, there are many transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. The Company and Cendant are regularly under audit by tax authorities whereby the outcome of the audits is uncertain. Accruals for tax contingencies are provided for in accordance with the requirements of SFAS No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies.”

The IRS is currently examining Cendant’s taxable years 1998 through 2002 of which the Company is included. Although Cendant believes it has appropriate support for the positions taken on its tax returns, the Company and Cendant have recorded liabilities representing the best estimates of the probable loss on certain positions. Cendant believes that its accruals for tax liabilities are adequate for all open years, based on its assessment of many factors including past experience and interpretations of tax law applied to the facts of each matter. Although the Company and Cendant believe the recorded assets and liabilities are reasonable, tax regulations are subject to interpretation and tax litigation is inherently uncertain; therefore, the Company and Cendant’s assessments can involve both a series of complex judgments about future events and rely heavily on estimates and assumptions. While the Company and Cendant believe that the estimates and assumptions supporting the assessments are reasonable, the final determination of tax audits and any related litigation could be materially different than that which is reflected in historical income tax provisions and recorded assets and liabilities. Based on the results of an audit or litigation, a material effect on our income tax provision, net income, or cash flows in the period or periods for which that determination is made could result.

 

7. Property and Equipment, net

Property and equipment, net, as of December 31, consisted of:

 

     2005     2004  

Furniture, fixtures and equipment

   $ 297     $ 236  

Capitalized software

     184       159  

Building and leasehold improvements

     164       121  

Land

     1       1  
                
     646       517  

Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization

     (342 )     (276 )
                
   $ 304     $ 241  
                

 

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During 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company recorded depreciation and amortization expense of $94 million, $83 million and $75 million, respectively, related to property and equipment.

 

8. Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities, as of December 31, consisted of:

 

     2005    2004

Accrued payroll and related

   $ 130    $ 137

Accrued volume incentives

     84      75

Deferred income

     72      56

Other

     206      229
             
     $492    $ 497
             

 

9. Secured Obligations and Borrowing Arrangements

Indebtedness as of December 31, consisted of:

 

     2005    2004

Relocation Funding Entity

   $ 513    $ 400

Kenosia Funding LLC

     109     

U.K. Relocation Receivables Funding Limited

     135     
             
   $ 757    $ 400
             

Certain of the funds the Company receives from the collection or realization of relocation receivables, relocation properties held for sale and related assets must be utilized to repay secured obligations. Substantially all relocation related assets are realized in less than twelve months from the transaction date. Accordingly, all of the Company’s secured obligations are classified as current on the accompanying Combined Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2005 and 2004.

The Company’s secured obligations contain restrictive covenants, including performance triggers linked to the quality of the underlying assets, financial reporting requirements, restrictions on mergers and change of control and a requirement that the Company generate at least $750 million of net income before depreciation and amortization, interest expense (other than interest expense relating to secured obligations), income taxes and minority interest, determined quarterly for the preceding twelve month period. At December 31, 2005, the Company was in compliance with all financial covenants of its secured obligations.

As of December 31, 2005, available capacity under the Company’s borrowing arrangements was as follows:

 

    

Expiration

Date

   Total
Capacity
   Outstanding
Borrowings
   Available
Capacity (*)

Relocation Funding Entity

   May 2006    $ 550    $ 513    $ 37

Kenosia Funding LLC

   May 2006      125      109      16

U.K. Relocation Receivables Funding Limited

   September 2008      172      135      37

Short-term borrowing facilities

   Various      535           535
                       
      $ 1,382    $ 757    $ 625
                       

(*) Capacity is subject to maintaining sufficient assets to collateralize these secured obligations.

 

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Interest expense incurred in connection with borrowings under these facilities amounted to $24 million, $8 million and $2 million during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, and is recorded within net revenues on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income as related borrowings are utilized to fund advances within the Company’s relocation business where interest income is generally earned on such advances.

S ECURED O BLIGATIONS

Relocation Funding Entity

The Company issues secured obligations through the Relocation Funding Entity, which is a consolidated bankruptcy remote SPE that is utilized to securitize certain relocation receivables generated from advancing funds on behalf of clients of the Company’s relocation business. The secured obligations issued by the Relocation Funding Entity are collateralized by $565 million of underlying relocation receivables and other related assets which are serviced by the Company as of December 31, 2005. These assets are not available to pay the Company’s general obligations. These secured obligations represent floating rate notes for which the weighted average interest rate was 4%, 2% and 1% for 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. This program is subject to annual renewal and carries a commitment fee.

Kenosia Funding, LLC.

The Company issues debt through Kenosia Funding, LLC, which is a consolidated bankruptcy remote SPE that is utilized to securitize certain relocation receivables, including relocation properties held for sale . During May 2005, the Company amended this program to include certain relocation properties held for sale, which did not meet the criteria for participation in the Relocation Funding Entity. Such secured obligations are collateralized by approximately $136 million of underlying relocation receivables, relocation properties held for sale and other related assets as of December 31, 2005, which are serviced by the Company. The assets of this entity are not available to pay the Company’s general obligations. The secured obligations issued by this entity represent floating rate debt for which the weighted average interest rate was 4% for 2005. This program is subject to annual renewal and carries a commitment fee.

U.K. Relocation Receivables Funding Limited

During 2005, the Company also began issuing debt through UK Relocation Receivables Funding Limited, which is a consolidated bankruptcy remote SPE that is utilized to securitize relocation receivables in the UK. The facility has a three-year term expiring on September 30, 2008 and carries a commitment fee. The assets of this entity are not available to pay the Company’s general obligations. These secured obligations are collateralized by $155 million of underlying relocation receivables and related assets. The weighted average interest rate on these secured obligations was 5% in 2005.

Short–Term Borrowing Facilities

Within the Company’s title and settlement services and Company Owned real estate brokerage operations, the Company acts as an escrow agent for numerous customers. As an escrow agent, the Company receives money from customers to hold on a short-term basis until certain conditions of the homesale transaction are satisfied. The Company does not have access to these funds for its use. However, through its title and settlement services and Company Owned real estate brokerage operations, the Company maintains short-term borrowing facilities that provide for borrowings of up to $535 million. The Company invests such borrowings in high quality short-term liquid investments. Any outstanding borrowings under these facilities are callable by the lenders at any time. These facilities are renewable annually and are not available for general corporate purposes. Net amounts earned under these arrangements approximated $9 million, $4 million and $2 million during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, and were recorded within net revenue on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income. There were no outstanding borrowings under these facilities at December 31, 2005 or 2004.

 

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10. Securitizations

Prior to November 26, 2003, sales of relocation receivables to the Relocation Funding Entity were treated as off-balance sheet sales, as this entity was structured as a bankruptcy remote QSPE pursuant to SFAS No. 140 “Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities” and, therefore, excluded from the scope of FIN 46. However, on November 26, 2003, the underlying structure of the Relocation Funding Entity was amended in a manner that resulted in it no longer meeting the criteria to qualify as a QSPE. Consequently, the Company began consolidating the account balances and activities of the Relocation Funding Entity on November 26, 2003 pursuant to FIN 46. Prior to consolidation, the Company recognized gains upon the sale of relocation receivables to the Relocation Funding Entity. However, such gains were not material for the period January 1, 2003 through November 25, 2003. The activities of the Relocation Funding Entity are limited to (i) purchasing relocation receivables from the Company’s relocation subsidiary, (ii) issuing debt securities and/or borrowing under a conduit facility to affect such purchases and (iii) entering into, terminating or modifying certain derivative transactions.

The cash flow activity presented below covers the period up to and including the date of consolidation of this structure.

 

     2003  

Proceeds from new securitizations

   $ 35  

Proceeds from collections reinvested in securitizations

     2,717  

Servicing fees received

     3  

Other cash flows received on retained interests (*)

     38  

Cash paid upon funding of reserve account

     (17 )
 
  (*) Represents cash flows received on retained interests other than servicing fees.

Gains recognized on the securitization of relocation receivables were not material during 2003.

The Company made representations and warranties customary for securitization transactions, including eligibility characteristics of the relocation receivables and servicing responsibilities, in connection with the securitization of these assets. See Note 11—Commitments and Contingencies.

 

11. Commitments and Contingencies

C OMMITMENTS

Leases

The Company is committed to making rental payments under noncancelable operating leases covering various facilities and equipment. Future minimum lease payments required under noncancelable operating leases as of December 31, 2005 are as follows:

 

Year

   Amount

2006

   $ 160

2007

     130

2008

     98

2009

     70

2010

     47

Thereafter

     71
      
   $ 576
      

Commitments under capital leases amounted to $27 million at December 31, 2005.

During 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company incurred total rental expense of $196 million, $179 million and $158 million, respectively.

 

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Purchase Commitments

In the normal course of business, the Company makes various commitments to purchase goods or services from specific suppliers, including those related to capital expenditures. None of the purchase commitments made by the Company as of December 31, 2005 (aggregating approximately $16 million) was individually significant.

L ITIGATION

The Company is involved in claims, legal proceedings and governmental inquiries related to contract disputes, business practices, intellectual property and other commercial, employment and tax matters. Such matters include but are not limited to allegations: (i) concerning a dilution in the value of the Century 21 name and goodwill based upon the changes made to the Century 21 system after the Company acquired it in 1995; (ii) that the Company failed to properly disclose the payment of an additional documentation compliance fee paid to its agents; (iii) that the Company is in violation of RESPA and California’s Unfair Competition Law with respect to a joint venture to which the Company is a party; (iv) concerning the Company’s failure to disclose that it marked up services provided by third parties in charging certain fees to title customers; (v) that the Company conspired with certain local real estate and mortgage related businesses and individuals in Mississippi to inflate appraised values on about 90 properties; (vi) that the Company violated its franchise obligations to a particular franchisee based upon NRT brokerage activities; (vii) that the Company failed to pay the appropriate wages to a certain category of title employees; and (viii) that a group of agents working in a particular NRT brokerage office are common law employees instead of independent contractors, and therefore may bring claims against NRT for breach of contract, wrongful discharge and negligent supervision.

The Company believes that it has adequately accrued for such matters as appropriate or, for matters not requiring accrual, believes that they will not have a material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position or cash flows based on information currently available. However, litigation is inherently unpredictable and, although the Company believes that its accruals are adequate and/or that it has valid defenses in these matters, unfavorable resolutions could occur. As such, an adverse outcome from such unresolved proceedings for which claims are awarded in excess of the amounts accrued for could be material to the Company with respect to earnings or cash flows in any given reporting period. However, the Company does not believe that the impact of such unresolved litigation should result in material liability to the Company in relation to its combined financial position or liquidity.

G UARANTEES /I NDEMNIFICATIONS

Standard Guarantees/Indemnifications

In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into numerous agreements that contain standard guarantees and indemnities whereby the Company indemnifies another party for breaches of representations and warranties. In addition, many of these parties are also indemnified against any third party claim resulting from the transaction that is contemplated in the underlying agreement. Such guarantees or indemnifications are granted under various agreements, including those governing (i) purchases, sales or outsourcing of assets or businesses, (ii) leases of real estate, (iii) licensing of trademarks, (iv) use of derivatives and (v) issuances of debt securities. The guarantees or indemnifications issued are for the benefit of the (i) buyers in sale agreements and sellers in purchase agreements, (ii) landlords in lease contracts, (iii) franchisees in licensing agreements, (iv) financial institutions in derivative contracts and (v) underwriters in debt security issuances. While some of these guarantees extend only for the duration of the underlying agreement, many survive the expiration of the term of the agreement or extend into perpetuity (unless subject to a legal statute of limitations). There are no specific limitations on the maximum potential amount of future payments that the Company could be required to make under these guarantees, nor is the Company able to develop an estimate of the maximum potential amount of future payments to be made under these guarantees as the triggering events are not subject to predictability. With respect to certain of the aforementioned guarantees, such as indemnifications of landlords against third party claims for the use of real estate property leased by the Company, the Company maintains insurance coverage that mitigates any potential payments to be made.

 

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Other Guarantees/Indemnifications

In the normal course of business, the Company coordinates numerous events for its franchisees and thus reserves a number of venues with certain minimum guarantees, such as room rentals at hotels local to the conference center. However, such room rentals are paid by each individual franchisee. If the franchisees do not meet the minimum guarantees, the Company is obligated to fulfill the minimum guaranteed fees. Such guarantees in effect at December 31, 2005 extend into 2008 and the maximum potential amount of future payments that the Company may be required to make under such guarantees is approximately $14 million. The Company would only be required to pay this maximum amount if none of the franchisees conducted their planned events at the reserved venues. Historically, the Company has not been required to make material payments under these guarantees. As of December 31, 2005, the liability recorded by the Company in connection with these guarantees was not significant.

S ELF -I NSURANCE

At December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Combined Balance Sheets include approximately $51 million and $53 million, respectively, of liabilities relating to self-insured risks for errors and omissions, including those associated with legal matters incurred in the ordinary course of business within the Company’s real estate brokerage business and for vacant dwellings and household goods in transit within the Company’s relocation business. Cendant also maintains self-insurance arrangements relating to health and welfare, workers’ compensation and other benefits provided to the Company’s employees. The estimated cost of such benefits has been allocated to the Company.

 

12. Stock-Based Compensation

As of December 31, 2005, all equity awards (stock options and restricted stock units (“RSUs”)) held by Company employees were granted by Cendant in Cendant common stock. At the time of separation, Cendant anticipates equitably adjusting a portion of its outstanding equity awards and, as a result, the Company expects to grant one equity award in Realogy common stock for every four equity awards outstanding in Cendant common stock (subject to change upon finalization of the distribution ratio).

C ENDANT S TOCK -B ASED C OMPENSATION P LANS

Stock Options

Stock options granted by Cendant to its employees generally have a ten-year term, and those granted prior to 2004 vest ratably over periods ranging from two to five years. In 2004, Cendant adopted performance and time vesting criteria for stock option grants. The predetermined performance criteria determine the number of options that will ultimately vest and are based on the growth of Cendant’s earnings and cash flows over the vesting period of the respective award. The number of options that will ultimately vest may range from 0% to 200% of the base award. Vesting occurs over a four-year period, but cannot exceed 25% of the base award in each of the three years following the grant date. Cendant’s policy is to grant options with exercise prices at then-current fair market value.

 

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The annual activity of Cendant’s common stock option plans for Cendant employees consisted of:

 

     2005    2004    2003
     Number of
Options
    Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Number of
Options
    Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Number of
Options
    Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Balance at beginning of year

   151     $ 17.83    188     $ 17.21    237     $ 16.23

Granted at fair market value (a)

   1       20.38    1       23.12    1       13.40

Granted in connection with acquisitions

            2       15.60    1       15.02

Granted in connection with PHH spin-off  (b)

   6       *                  

Exercised

   (24 )     11.35    (38 )     14.61    (40 )     10.77

Forfeited

   (5 )     20.23    (2 )     19.33    (11 )     19.45
                          

Balance at end of year

   129     $ 18.09    151     $ 17.83    188     $ 17.21
                          

(*) Not meaningful.
(a) In 2005 and 2004, reflects the maximum number of options assuming achievement of all performance and time vesting criteria.
(b) As a result of the spin-off of PHH, the closing price of Cendant common stock was adjusted downward by $1.10 on January 31, 2005. Additionally, Cendant granted incremental options to achieve a balance of 1.04249 options outstanding subsequent to the spin-off for each option outstanding prior to the spin-off. The exercise price of each option was also adjusted downward by a proportionate value.

The table below summarizes information regarding Cendant’s outstanding and exercisable stock options as of December 31, 2005:

 

     Outstanding Options    Exercisable Options

Range of Exercise Prices

   Number
of
Options
    Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Number
of
Options
   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

$0.01 to $10.00

   26     3.5    $ 9.15    26    $ 9.15

$10.01 to $20.00

   64     3.8      17.10    63      17.15

$20.01 to $30.00

   25     3.1      22.95    24      23.08

$30.01 to $40.00

   14     1.9      30.93    13      30.93
                   
   129 (*)   3.4    $ 18.09    126    $ 18.10
                   

(*) As of December 31, 2005, approximately 18 million of the total options outstanding in Cendant common stock related to options granted to employees of the Company.

As discussed above, a portion of the total outstanding options granted by Cendant as of the date of the separation will be equitably adjusted, including options that were granted to Company employees as well as options that were granted to other Cendant employees who are not within the Company’s ownership structure. Based upon the current anticipated distribution ratio, as of December 31, 2005, the Company would have expected to issue approximately 32 million options at the date of separation in connection with Cendant’s equitable adjustment.

 

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The weighted-average grant-date fair value of Cendant common stock options granted in the normal course of business during 2005, 2004 and 2003 was $5.89, $6.90 and $5.19, respectively. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of Cendant common stock options granted in connection with acquisitions made during 2004 and 2003 was $9.49 and $3.89, respectively. No options were granted in connection with acquisitions made in 2005. The fair values of these stock options are estimated on the dates of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions for Cendant common stock options granted in 2005, 2004 and 2003:

 

     2005     2004     2003  

Dividend yield

   1.7 %   1.5 %    

Expected volatility

   30.0 %   30.0 %   49.0 %

Risk-free interest rate

   3.8 %   4.0 %   2.4 %

Expected holding period (years)

   5.5     5.5     3.6  

Restricted Stock Units

RSUs granted by Cendant entitle the employee to receive one share of Cendant common stock upon vesting. RSUs granted in 2003 vest ratably over a four-year term. Subsequently, Cendant adopted performance and time vesting criteria for RSU grants. The predetermined performance criteria determine the number of RSUs that will ultimately vest and are based on the growth of Cendant’s earnings and cash flows over the vesting period of the respective award. The number of RSUs that will ultimately vest may range from 0% to 200% of the base award. Vesting occurs over a four year period, but cannot exceed 25% of the base award in each of the three years following the grant date. The annual activity related to Cendant’s RSU plan for Cendant employees consisted of:

 

     2005    2004    2003
    

Number
of

RSUs

    Weighted
Average
Grant
Price
  

Number
of

RSUs

    Weighted
Average
Grant
Price
  

Number
of

RSUs

   Weighted
Average
Grant
Price

Balance at beginning of year

   16     $ 20.85    6     $ 13.98       $

Granted at fair market value (a)

   14       20.19    13       23.16    6      13.98

Granted in connection with PHH spin-off (b)

   1       *                 

Vested

   (3 )     19.48    (2 )     13.97        

Canceled

   (5 )     20.90    (1 )     17.02        
                         

Balance at end of year

   23 (c)     20.65    16     $ 20.85    6    $ 13.98
                         

(*) Not meaningful.
(a) In 2005 and 2004, reflects the maximum number of RSUs assuming achievement of all performance and time vesting criteria.
(b) As a result of the spin-off of PHH, the closing price of Cendant common stock was adjusted downward by $1.10 on January 31, 2005. In order to provide an equitable adjustment to holders of its RSUs, Cendant granted incremental RSUs to achieve a balance of 1.0477 RSUs outstanding subsequent to the spin-off for each RSU outstanding prior to the spin-off.
(c) As of December 31, 2005, approximately six million of the total RSUs outstanding in Cendant common stock related to RSUs granted to employees of the Company.

As discussed above, the total outstanding RSUs granted by Cendant as of the date of the separation will be equitably adjusted, including RSUs that were granted to Company employees as well as RSUs that were granted to other Cendant employees who are not within the Company’s ownership structure. Based upon the current anticipated distribution ratio, as of December 31, 2005, the Company would have expected to issue approximately three million RSUs at the date of separation in connection with Cendant’s equitable adjustment.

S TOCK -B ASED C OMPENSATION E XPENSE A LLOCATED TO THE C OMPANY

During 2005, 2004 and 2003, Cendant allocated pre-tax stock-based compensation expense of $13 million, $9 million and $3 million, respectively, to the Company. Such compensation expense relates only to the options and RSUs that were granted by Cendant to the Company’s employees subsequent to January 1, 2003. The allocation was based on the estimated number of options and RSUs Cendant believed it would ultimately provide

 

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and the underlying vesting period of the award. As Cendant measured its stock-based compensation expense using the intrinsic value method during the periods prior to January 1, 2003, Cendant did not recognize compensation expense upon the issuance of equity awards to its employees. Therefore, the Company was not allocated compensation expense for options that were granted by Cendant to the Company’s employees prior to January 1, 2003 (there were no RSUs granted prior to January 1, 2003). See Note 2—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for a more information regarding Cendant’s accounting policy for stock-based compensation.

Presented below is the effect on net income for 2004 and 2003 had compensation expense been recognized by Cendant and allocated to the Company for options that were granted prior to January 1, 2003.

 

       Year Ended
December 31,
 
     2004     2003  

Reported net income

   $ 618     $ 569  

Add back: Stock-based employee compensation expense included
in reported net income, net of tax

     6       2  

Less: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined
under fair value based method for all awards, net of tax

     (6 )     (9 )
                

Pro forma net income

   $ 618     $ 562  
                

As of January 1, 2005, there were no outstanding awards for which stock-based compensation expense is not reflected within reported net income; accordingly, pro forma information is not presented subsequent to December 31, 2004.

 

13. Employee Benefit Plans

Cendant sponsors a defined contribution savings plan that provides certain eligible employees of the Company an opportunity to accumulate funds for retirement. The Company matches the contributions of participating employees on the basis specified by the plan. The Company’s cost for contributions to this plan was $24 million, $22 million and $18 million during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

 

14. Financial Instruments

R ISK M ANAGEMENT

Following is a description of the Company’s risk management policies.

Foreign Currency Risk

The Company uses foreign currency forward contracts to manage its exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates associated with its foreign currency denominated receivables and forecasted earnings of foreign subsidiaries. The Company primarily hedges its foreign currency exposure to the British pound. These forward contracts utilized by the Company do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment under SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” The fluctuations in the value of these forward contracts do, however, largely offset the impact of changes in the value of the underlying risk that they are intended to economically hedge. The impact of these forward contracts was not material to the Company’s results of operations, cash flows or financial position during 2005, 2004 and 2003.

Interest Rate Risk

In the normal course of business, the Company borrows funds under its secured borrowing facilities and utilizes such funds to generate assets on which it generally earns interest income. The Company does not believe it is exposed to significant interest rate risk in connection with these activities as the rate it incurs on such borrowings and the rate it earns on such assets are based on similar variable indices, thereby providing a natural hedge.

 

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Credit Risk and Exposure

The Company is exposed to counterparty credit risk in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to various agreements and sales transactions. The Company manages such risk by evaluating the financial position and creditworthiness of such counterparties and by requiring collateral in instances in which financing is provided. The Company mitigates counterparty credit risk associated with its derivative contracts by monitoring the amounts at risk with each counterparty to such contracts, periodically evaluating counterparty creditworthiness and financial position, and where possible, dispersing its risk among multiple counterparties.

As of December 31, 2005, there were no significant concentrations of credit risk with any individual counterparty or groups of counterparties. Concentrations of credit risk associated with receivables are considered minimal due to the Company’s diverse customer base.

Market Risk Exposure

During 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company generated 27%, 27% and 26%, respectively, of its net revenues from transactions in the state of California.

F AIR V ALUE

The fair value of financial instruments is generally determined by reference to market values resulting from trading on a national securities exchange or in an over-the-counter market. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair value is based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques, as appropriate. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, relocation receivables, trade receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current liabilities approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these assets and liabilities. The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of all other financial instruments at December 31, are as follows:

 

     2005    2004
     Carrying
Amount
   Estimated
Fair
Value
   Carrying
Amount
   Estimated
Fair
Value

Secured obligations

   $ 757    $ 757    $ 400    $ 400

Foreign exchange forwards (*)

               2      2

(*) Derivative instruments in gain (loss) positions.

 

15. Segment Information

The reportable segments presented below represent the Company’s operating segments for which separate financial information is available and which is utilized on a regular basis by its chief operating decision maker to assess performance and to allocate resources. In identifying its reportable segments, the Company also considers the nature of services provided by its operating segments. Management evaluates the operating results of each of its reportable segments based upon revenue and “EBITDA,” which is defined as net income before depreciation and amortization, interest expense (other than interest expense relating to secured obligations), income taxes and minority interest, each of which is presented on the Company’s Combined Statements of Income. The Company’s presentation of EBITDA may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies.

 

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Y EAR E NDED D ECEMBER  31, 2005

 

       Real Estate
Franchise
Services
   Company
Owned
Real Estate
Brokerage
Services
   Relocation
Services
   Title and
Settlement
Services
   Other  (b)     Total

Net revenues (a)

   $ 988    $ 5,723    $ 495    $ 316    $ (383 )   $ 7,139

EBITDA

     740      250      124      53            1,167

Depreciation and amortization

     24      88      19      5            136

Segment assets

     1,449      2,767      1,179      131      (87 )     5,439

Capital expenditures

     10      85      23      13            131

Y EAR E NDED D ECEMBER  31, 2004

 

     Real Estate
Franchise
Services
   Company
Owned
Real Estate
Brokerage
Services
   Relocation
Services
   Title and
Settlement
Services
   Other  (b)     Total

Net revenues (a)

   $ 904    $ 5,242    $    455    $ 303    $ (355 )   $ 6,549

EBITDA

     666      263      126      62      (2 )     1,115

Depreciation and amortization

     23      74      19      4            120

Segment assets

     1,533      2,453      998      106      (75 )     5,015

Capital expenditures

     7      54      15      11            87

Y EAR E NDED D ECEMBER  31, 2003

 

     Real Estate
Franchise
Services
  

Company

Owned
Real Estate
Brokerage
Services

   Relocation
Services
   Title and
Settlement
Services
   Other  (b)     Total

Net revenues (a)

   $    763    $ 4,350    $    412    $ 314    $ (307 )   $ 5,532

EBITDA

     582      188      113      50      (1 )     932

Depreciation and amortization

     20      70      17      3            110

Capital expenditures

     3      43      7      8            61

(a) Transactions between segments are recorded at fair value and eliminated in consolidation. Revenues for the Real Estate Franchise Services segment include $369 million, $341 million and $288 million of intercompany royalties paid by the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. Such amounts are eliminated through the Other segment. Revenues for the Real Estate Franchise Services segment include $14 million, $14 million and $15 million of intercompany royalties paid by the Title and Settlement Services segment during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. Such amounts are also eliminated through the Other segment. Revenues for the Relocation Services segment include $57 million, $49 million and $42 million of intercompany referral fees paid by the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. Such amounts are recorded as contra-revenues by the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment. There are no other material inter-segment transactions.
(b) Includes the elimination of transactions between segments.

Provided below is a reconciliation of EBITDA to income before income taxes and minority interest.

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2005     2004     2003  

EBITDA

   $ 1,167     $ 1,115     $ 932  

Less:  Depreciation and amortization

     136       120       110  

Interest income, net

     (7 )     (6 )     (38 )
                        

Income before income taxes and minority interest

   $ 1,038     $ 1,001     $ 860  
                        

 

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The geographic segment information provided below is classified based on the geographic location of the Company’s subsidiaries.

 

       United
States
   All Other
Countries
   Total

2005

        

Net revenues

   $ 7,066    $ 73    $ 7,139

Total assets

     5,218      221      5,439

Net property and equipment

     300      4      304

2004

        

Net revenues

   $ 6,488    $ 61    $ 6,549

Total assets

     4,816      199      5,015

Net property and equipment

     237      4      241

2003

        

Net revenues

   $ 5,480    $ 52    $ 5,532

 

16. Related Party Transactions

D ISTRIBUTION OF C APITAL TO C ENDANT

The Company’s relocation business was a subsidiary of PHH through January 31, 2005, the date Cendant completed its spin-off of PHH. In connection with the spin-off, the Company eliminated all intercompany receivables due from PHH through a distribution of capital. Accordingly, the Company recorded a non-cash reduction of $609 million to invested equity on its Combined Balance Sheet. During 2004, the Company distributed $4 million of capital to Cendant, which was recorded as a non-cash reduction of invested equity on its Combined Balance Sheet.

D IVIDENDS TO C ENDANT

During 2004 and 2003, the Company made cash dividend payments of $38 million and $4 million, respectively, to Cendant, which were recorded as a reduction of invested equity on the Company’s Combined Balance Sheets.

D UE TO C ENDANT , N ET

The following table summarizes related party transactions occurring between the Company and Cendant:

 

       Years Ended December 31,  
     2005     2004     2003  

Due to Cendant, beginning balance

   $ 386     $ 723     $ 499  

Corporate related functions

     101       91       84  

Related party agreements

     (3 )     (1 )     (1 )

Income taxes, net

     350       336       359  

Net interest earned on amounts due from and to Cendant

     (9 )     (9 )     (39 )

Advances to Cendant, net

     (385 )     (754 )     (179 )
                        
     54       (337 )     224  
                        

Due to Cendant, ending balance

   $ 440     $ 386     $ 723  
                        

 

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Table of Contents

Corporate Related Functions

The Company is allocated general corporate overhead expenses from Cendant for corporate-related functions based on either a percentage of the Company’s forecasted revenues or, in the case of the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment, based on a percentage of revenues after agent commission expense. General corporate overhead expense allocations include executive management, tax, accounting, legal and treasury services, certain employee benefits and real estate usage for common space. During 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company was allocated $38 million, $33 million and $30 million of general corporate expenses from Cendant, which are included within the general and administrative expenses line item on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income.

Cendant also incurs certain expenses on behalf of the Company. These expenses, which directly benefit the Company, are allocated to the Company based upon the Company’s actual utilization of the services. Direct allocations include costs associated with insurance, information technology, revenue franchise audit, telecommunications and real estate usage for Company-specific space. During 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company was allocated $63 million, $58 million and $54 million of expenses directly benefiting the Company, which are included within the general and administrative expenses line item on the accompanying Combined Statements of Income.

The Company believes the assumptions and methodologies underlying the allocations of general corporate overhead and direct expenses from Cendant are reasonable. However, such expenses are not indicative of, nor is it practical or meaningful for the Company to estimate for all historical periods presented, the actual level of expenses that would have been incurred had the Company been operating as a separate, stand-alone public company.

Related Party Agreements

The Company conducts the following business activities with Cendant and its other subsidiaries: (i) provides employee relocation services, including relocation policy management, household goods moving services and departure and destination real estate related services; (ii) provides commercial real estate brokerage services, such as transaction management, acquisition and disposition services, broker price opinions, renewal due diligence and portfolio review; (iii) provides brokerage and settlement services products and services to employees of Cendant’s other subsidiaries; (iv) utilizes corporate travel management services of Cendant’s travel distribution services business; and (v) designates Cendant’s car rental brands, Avis and Budget, as the exclusive primary and secondary suppliers, respectively, of car rental services for the Company’s employees. In connection with these activities, the Company recorded net revenues of $3 million, $1 million and $1 million during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, which approximates the fair value of the services provided by or to the Company.

Income Taxes, net

As discussed in Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, the Company is included in the consolidated federal and state income tax returns of Cendant. The net income tax payable to Cendant approximated $2.2 billion and $1.8 billion as of December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively, and is recorded as a component of the due to Cendant, net line item on the accompanying Combined Balance Sheets.

Net Interest Earned on Amounts Due from and to Cendant and Advances to Cendant, net

Also in the ordinary course of business, Cendant sweeps cash from the Company’s bank accounts and the Company maintains certain balances due to or from Cendant. Inclusive of unpaid corporate allocations, the Company had net amounts due from Cendant totaling approximately $1.7 billion and $1.4 billion as of December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. Certain of the advances between the Company and Cendant are interest bearing. In connection with the interest bearing activity, the Company recorded net interest income of $9 million, $9 million and $39 million during 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. The 2003 amount includes $29 million of interest income earned on a loan made to Cendant in 2000, with proceeds received on the issuance of a

 

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mandatorily redeemable preferred interest in the Company’s real estate franchise business. This interest, which approximated $375 million, was repaid and the intercompany loan was settled in September 2003. Such repayment is reflected within the principal payments on borrowings line item within our Combined Statements of Cash Flows.

T RANSACTIONS WITH PHH C ORPORATION

In January 2005, Cendant completed the spin-off of its former mortgage, fleet leasing and appraisal businesses in a tax-free distribution of 100% of the common stock of PHH to its stockholders. In connection with the spin-off, the Company entered a venture, PHH Home Loans, with PHH for the purpose of originating and selling mortgage loans primarily sourced through the Company’s real estate brokerage and relocation businesses. The Company owns 49.9% of the venture, which has a 50-year term and is subject to earlier termination upon the occurrence of certain events or at the Company’s election at any time after January 31, 2012 by providing two years’ notice to PHH. PHH may terminate the venture upon the occurrence of certain events or, at its option, after January 31, 2030. The Company also entered into an agreement with PHH and PHH Home Loans regarding the operation of the venture. Under such agreement, the Company must (i) recommend the PHH Home Loans as the exclusive provider of mortgage loans to independent sales associates, employees and customers of the Company’s real estate brokerage and relocation businesses and (ii) sell mortgage origination businesses acquired by the Company’s real estate brokerage business to the PHH Home Loans pursuant to pre-specified pricing parameters. Additionally, the Company maintains a marketing agreement with PHH whereby PHH is the exclusive recommended provider of mortgage products and services promoted by the Company to its independently owned and operated franchisees. This marketing agreement expires in 2030. The Company also maintains a relocation agreement with PHH whereby PHH outsourced its employee relocation function to the Company. In connection with these agreements, the Company recorded net revenues of $9 million during 2005, which approximates the fair value of the services provided by the Company.

 

17. Selected Quarterly Financial Data—(unaudited)

Provided below is selected unaudited quarterly financial data for 2005 and 2004.

 

     2005 (a)  
     First     Second     Third     Fourth  

Net revenues

        

Real Estate Franchise Services

   $ 193     $ 280     $ 286     $ 229  

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

     1,113       1,655       1,667       1,288  

Relocation Services

     105       134       140       116  

Title and Settlement Services

     65       87       93       71  

Other (b)

     (77 )     (110 )     (111 )     (85 )
                                
   $ 1,399     $ 2,046     $ 2,075     $ 1,619  
                                

EBITDA

        

Real Estate Franchise Services

   $ 136     $ 215     $ 219     $ 170  

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

     (8 )     116       123       19  

Relocation Services

     20       40       42       22  

Title and Settlement Services

     5       19       21       8  

Other

     1                   (1 )
                                
     154       390       405       218  

Less: Depreciation and amortization

     30       31       34       41  

Interest expense (income), net

     1       (2 )     (4 )     (2 )
                                

Income before income taxes and minority interest

   $ 123     $ 361     $ 375     $ 179  
                                

Net income

   $ 73     $ 218     $ 227     $ 109  
                                

(a) Income before income taxes and minority interest for the first, second and third quarters include restructuring charges of $4 million, $1 million and $1 million, respectively.
(b) Represents the elimination of transactions primarily between the Real Estate Franchise Services segment and the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment.

 

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     2004 (a)  
     First     Second     Third     Fourth  

Net revenues

        

Real Estate Franchise Services

   $ 164     $ 252     $ 257     $ 231  

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

     952       1,553       1,494       1,243  

Relocation Services

     100       113       125       117  

Title and Settlement Services

     59       95       81       68  

Other (b)

     (67 )     (103 )     (100 )     (85 )
                                
   $ 1,208     $ 1,910     $ 1,857     $ 1,574  
                                

EBITDA

        

Real Estate Franchise Services

   $ 118     $ 193     $ 194     $ 161  

Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services

     (15 )     125       117       36  

Relocation Services

     19       37       45       25  

Title and Settlement Services

     2       29       21       10  

Other

     (1 )           (1 )      
                                
     123       384       376       232  

Less: Depreciation and amortization

     29       30       31       30  

Interest income, net

     (1 )     (1 )     (1 )     (3 )
                                

Income before income taxes and minority interest

   $ 95     $ 355     $ 346     $ 205  
                                

Net income

   $ 59     $ 220     $ 214     $ 125  
                                

(a) In the second quarter of 2004, the Company recognized a $7 million gain on the sale of certain non-core assets, which was recorded within net revenues in the Combined Statements of Income.
(b) Represents the elimination of transactions primarily between the Real Estate Franchise Services segment and the Company Owned Real Estate Brokerage Services segment.

 

18. Subsequent Events

Separation from Cendant (Unaudited)

On October 23, 2005, Cendant’s Board of Directors preliminarily approved a plan to separate Cendant into four independent, publicly traded companies – one for each of Cendant’s real estate services, travel distribution services, hospitality services (including timeshare resorts) and vehicle rental businesses. In connection with the separation and distribution, the Company expects to issue approximately $2.2 billion of debt, which is not reflected within the accompanying Combined Financial Statements. The proceeds received in connection with the planned debt issuances are expected to be transferred to Cendant.

Additionally, pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement, upon distribution of the Company’s common stock to Cendant stockholders, the Company is expected to be allocated 50% of certain Cendant corporate assets and assume and be responsible for 50% of certain Cendant corporate liabilities, including those relating to unresolved tax and legal matters (none of which are reflected within the accompanying Combined Financial Statements). Cendant’s Hospitality and Travel Distribution businesses, both of which are also expected to be distributed to Cendant’s shareholders as part of the separation plan, are expected to assume and be responsible for 30% and 20%, respectively, of these liabilities. The actual amount that the Company may be required to pay under these arrangements could vary depending upon the outcome of any unresolved matters, which may not be resolved for several years, and if any of the other parties responsible for such liabilities were to default in its payment of costs or expenses related to any such liability.

Certain lawsuits are currently outstanding against Cendant, some of which relate to accounting irregularities arising from some of the CUC International, Inc. (“CUC”) business units acquired when HFS Incorporated merged with CUC to form Cendant. While Cendant has settled many of the principal lawsuits relating to the accounting irregularities, these settlements do not encompass all litigation associated with it. Cendant and the Company do not believe that it is feasible to predict or determine the final outcome or resolution of these

 

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unresolved proceedings. An adverse outcome from such unresolved proceedings or other proceedings for which the Company has assumed liability under the separation agreements could be material with respect to the Company’s earnings in any given reporting period.

Acquisition of Texas Title Entities

On January 6, 2006, the Company completed the acquisition of multiple title companies in Texas in a single transaction for $93 million in cash plus a $10 million (subject to potential downward adjustment) note payable within two years of the closing date. These entities provide title and closing services, including title searches, title insurance, home sale escrow and other closing services.

Renewal of the Relocation Funding Entity and Kenosia Funding LLC

The Company has extended the Relocation Funding Entity and Kenosia Funding LLC through May 30, 2006. Both borrowing arrangements are expected to be amended and renewed by that date.

* * * *

 

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Annex A

OPINION OF EVERCORE GROUP L.L.C.

 

A-1


Table of Contents

Annex B

OPINION OF DUFF & PHELPS, LLC

 

B-1