UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549  

 

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

 

(Mark One)

☒  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2019

 

OR

 

☐  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from _________ to __________

 

Commission File Number: 001-38903

 

 

 

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.

 

 

 

Maryland   83-2586114
(State or other jurisdiction   (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation)   Identification No.)

 

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code):
(516) 295-7820

 

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class   Trading Symbol(s)   Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share   PSTL   New York Stock Exchange

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☐ No ☒

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer Accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer Smaller reporting company
    Emerging growth company

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act   ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No  ☒

 

The number of shares of Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the registrant outstanding at June 26, 2019 was 5,285,588.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 2019

 

Table of Contents

 

  P age
PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements 1
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc. Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 2019 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2018 1
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc. Notes to Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) 2
  Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor Combined Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 2019 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2018 5
  Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor Combined Consolidated Statements of Income Periods for the Periods Ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 (Unaudited) 6
  Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor Combined Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity (Deficit) for the Periods Ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 (Unaudited) 7
  Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor Combined Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Periods for the Periods Ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 (Unaudited) 8
  Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 9
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 18
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk 27
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 27
PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings 28
Item 1A. Risk Factors 28
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 28
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 29
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 29
Item 5. Other Information 29
Item 6. Exhibits 29

 

i

 

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

    March 31,
2019
    December 31,
2018
 
    (Unaudited)        
Assets            
Cash   $ 1,000     $ 1,000  
Total Assets   $ 1,000     $ 1,000  
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 600,000,000 shares authorized, 1,000 shares issued and outstanding   $ 10     $ 10  
Additional paid in capital     990       990  
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity   $ 1,000     $ 1,000  

 

See accompanying notes.

 

1

 

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
Notes to Consolidated Balance Sheet
(Unaudited)

 

1. Organization

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “Company” “we”, “us”, or “our”) was organized in the state of Maryland on November 19, 2018. On May 17, 2019, the Company completed its initial public offering (“IPO”) of shares of the Company’s Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (our “Class A Common Stock”). The Company contributed the net proceeds of our initial public offering (our “IPO”) to Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “Operating Partnership”), in exchange for common units of limited partnership interest in our Operating Partnership (“OP Units”). Both the Company and the Operating Partnership commenced operations upon completion of the IPO and certain related formation transactions (the “Formation Transactions”). Prior to the completion of the IPO and the Formation Transactions, on May 17, 2019, the Company had no operations.

 

At March 31, 2019, the Company was authorized to issue up to 600,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share. Upon completion of the IPO on May 17, 2019, we amended our articles of incorporation such that the Company is currently authorized to issue up to 500,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and up to 100,000,000 shares of preferred stock. The Company elected to be taxed as an S-Corporation under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) effective November 19, 2018, and as such, all federal tax liabilities were the responsibility of the Company’s sole stockholder. In anticipation of the IPO, the Company revoked its S-Corporation election on May 14, 2019. The Company intends to qualify and elect to qualify as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under the Code beginning with its short taxable year ending December 31, 2019. As a REIT, the Company generally will not be subject to federal income tax to the extent that it distributes at least 90% of its taxable income for each tax year to its stockholders. REITs are subject to a number of organizational and operational requirements.

 

2. Initial Public Offering and Formation Transactions

 

Both the Company and the Operating Partnership commenced operations upon completion of the IPO and Formation Transactions on May 17, 2019. The Company’s operations are carried on primarily through the Operating Partnership and wholly owned subsidiaries of the Operating Partnership.

 

On May 17, 2019, the Company closed the IPO, pursuant to which it sold 4,500,000 shares of its Class A Common Stock at a public offering price of $17.00 per share. The Company raised $76.5 million in gross proceeds, resulting in net proceeds of approximately $71.1 million after deducting approximately $5.4 million in underwriting discounts and before giving effect to other expenses relating to the IPO. The Company’s Class A Common Stock began trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PSTL” on May 15, 2019.

 

In connection with the IPO and Formation Transactions, the Company, through its Operating Partnership, used a portion of the net proceeds to repay approximately $31.7 million of outstanding indebtedness related to the accounting predecessor to the Company, which is not a legal entity (the “Predecessor”). The remaining funds are expected to be used for general working capital purposes and to fund potential future acquisitions. The accompanying balance sheets of the Company does not reflect the IPO, or the Formation Transactions completed on May 17, 2019.

 

Pursuant to the Formation Transactions, the Company, directly or through the Operating Partnership, acquired the entities that comprise the Predecessor. The initial properties and other interests were acquired in exchange for 1,333,112 OP Units, 637,058 shares of Class A Common Stock 27,206 shares of the Company’s Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share (the “Class B Common Stock”), and $1.9 million of cash. In addition, the Operating Partnership purchased a 100% interest in 81 post office properties in exchange for $26.9 million in cash, including approximately $1.0 million paid to Andrew Spodek, the Company’s chief executive officer and a director.

 

2

 

 

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The balance sheet has been prepared by management in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles. In the opinion of management, the unaudited balance sheet as of March 31, 2019 reflects all adjustments, consisting solely of a normal recurring nature, necessary to present fairly, in all material respects, the Company’s financial position at March 31, 2019. The Company did not have any operations from the date of formation to May 17, 2019.

 

Offering and Other Costs

 

Certain of the costs related to the IPO and Formation Transactions paid by an affiliate of the Company’s sole shareholder at March 31, 2019 will be reimbursed by the Company from the proceeds of the IPO. Organizational costs incurred by the Company will be expensed. Offering costs will be recorded in stockholders’ equity as a reduction of additional paid-in capital. Transaction costs related to asset acquisitions will be capitalized as part of the acquisition. The Company has not recorded any organization, offering or transaction costs at March 31, 2019, because such costs were not the liability of the Company until the successful completion of the IPO. As of March 31, 2019, approximately $2.9 million of offering and other costs had been incurred by an affiliate of the Company’s sole shareholder. Subsequent to March 31, 2019, the affiliate of the Company's sole shareholder has incurred an estimated $2.6 million of offering and other costs.

 

Investments in Real Estate

 

Upon the acquisition of real estate, the purchase price will be allocated based upon the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed for business combinations. The purchase price for asset acquisitions will be allocated based upon the relative fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of the tangible assets of an acquired property by valuing the property as if it were vacant. For transactions that are business combinations, acquisition costs are expensed as incurred. For transactions that are an asset acquisition, acquisition costs are capitalized as incurred.

 

Investments in real estate will generally include land, buildings, tenant improvements and identified intangible assets, such as in-place lease intangibles and above or below-market lease intangibles. Direct and certain indirect costs clearly associated with the development, construction, leasing or expansion of real estate assets will be capitalized as a cost of the property. Repairs and maintenance costs will be expensed as incurred. Depreciation on buildings generally will be provided on a straight-line basis over 39 years. Tenant improvements will be depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the term of the related lease. The acquired in-place lease values will be amortized to expense over the average remaining non-cancellable term of the respect in-place leases. The acquired above or below-market lease intangibles will be amortized to rent income over the applicable lease term, inclusive of any option periods for below-market leases.

 

The carrying value of real estate investments and related intangible assets will be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment exists when the carrying amount of an asset exceeds the aggregate projected future cash flows over the anticipated holding period on an undisclosed basis. An impairment loss is measured based on the excess of the asset’s carrying amount over its estimated fair value. Impairment analyses will be based on current plans, intended holding periods and available market information at the time the analyses are prepared. If estimates of the projected future cash flows, anticipated holding periods or market conditions change, the evaluation of impairment losses may be different and such differences may be material. The evaluation of anticipated cash flows is subjective and is based, in part, on assumptions regarding future occupancy, rental rates and capital requirements that could differ materially from actual results.

 

4. Commitments and Contingencies

 

In the ordinary course of the Company’s business, the Company enters into non-binding (except with regard to exclusivity and confidentiality) letters of intent indicating a willingness to negotiate for acquisitions.  There can be no assurance that definitive contracts will be entered into with respect to any matter covered by letters of intent, that the Company will close the transactions contemplated by such contracts on time, or that the Company will consummate any transaction contemplated by any definitive contract.

 

3

 

 

5. Subsequent Events

 

As discussed in Note 2, the Company completed the IPO and Formation Transactions on May 17, 2019 and used a portion of the net proceeds to repay approximately $31.7 million of outstanding mortgage debt of the Predecessor secured by certain of the initial properties acquired by the Company in connection with such transactions. See Note 2. Initial Public Offering and Formation Transactions.

 

On June 26, 2019, the board of directors of the Company approved and the Company declared a pro-rated cash dividend of $0.063 per share of common stock for the period from May 17, 2019, the closing date of the IPO, to June 30, 2019. The dividend will be payable on July 31, 2019 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on July 9, 2019.

 

In June 2019, the Company, through its Operating Partnership, entered into agreements to acquire three post office properties located in Arkansas, Louisiana and South Carolina for approximately $4.4 million in cash. The transactions are expected to close in the third quarter of 2019, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

 

4

 

 

Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor
Combined Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

    March 31,     December 31,  
    2019     2018  
    (Unaudited)        
             
ASSETS            
Real estate                
Land   $ 7,418,415     $ 7,239,213  
Buildings and improvements     30,014,094       29,550,076  
Tenant improvements     1,664,381       1,646,215  
      39,096,890       38,435,504  
Less: accumulated depreciation     (7,381,310 )     (7,121,532 )
Total real estate, net     31,715,580       31,313,972  
                 
Cash     394,217       262,926  
Rent and other receivables     492,626       601,670  
Prepaid expenses and other assets     143,947       146,014  
Escrows and reserves     600,053       598,949  
Deferred rent receivable     19,226       14,060  
In-place lease intangibles (net of accumulated amortization of $4,604,992 and $4,388,699, respectively)     2,589,138       2,735,927  
Above market leases (net of accumulated amortization of $11,058 and $8,688, respectively)     8,544       10,914  
                 
Total assets   $ 35,963,331     $ 35,684,432  
                 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY (DEFICIT)                
Liabilities                
Mortgage loans payable, net   $ 34,510,797     $ 34,792,419  
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other     1,691,404       1,869,084  
Below market leases (net of accumulated amortization of $1,613,665 and $1,525,540, respectively)     3,832,672       3,842,495  
Deferred tax liability, net     727,952       793,847  
                 
Total liabilities    $ 40,762,825     $   41,297,845  
                 

Commitments and contingencies

               
                 
Equity (deficit)                
Common stock, UPH - no par, 1,000 shares authorized, 1,000 shares issued and outstanding     4,000,000       4,000,000  
NPM - no par, 200 shares authorized, issued and outstanding     200       200  
Additional paid-in capital     3,688,614       3,441,493  
Accumulated equity (deficit)     (11,177,430 )     (11,003,876 )
Member's equity (deficit)     (1,357,793 )     (2,095,823 )
Noncontrolling interest     46,915       44,593  
Total equity (deficit)     (4,799,494 )     (5,613,413 )
                 
Total liabilities and equity (deficit)   $ 35,963,331     $ 35,684,432  

 

( The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited financial statements )

 

5

 

 

Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor
Combined Consolidated Statements of Income
Periods Ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 (Unaudited)

 

    Three months ended
March 31:
 
    2019     2018  
Revenues            
Rent income   $ 1,492,386     $ 1,378,110  
Tenant reimbursements     236,856       215,257  
Fee and other income     286,926       319,903  
Total revenues     2,016,168       1,913,270  
                 
Operating expenses                
Real estate taxes     249,789       222,138  
Property operating expenses     251,706       226,313  
General and administrative     376,891       504,850  
Depreciation and amortization     480,443       456,306  
Total operating expenses     1,358,829       1,409,607  
                 
Income from operations     657,339       503,663  
                 
Interest expense, net     (360,514 )     (384,686 )
                 
Income before income tax expense     296,825       118,977  
                 
Income tax expense     (39,749 )     (24,514 )
                 
Net income     257,076       94,463  
                 
Less: Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest     (2,843 )     (3,822 )
                 
Net income attributable to Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor   $ 254,233     $ 90,641  

 

( The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited financial statements )

 

6

 

 

Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor
Combined Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity (Deficit)
Periods Ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 (Unaudited)

 

    Total     Common
Stock
    Additional
Paid-in
Capital
    Accumulated
Equity (Deficit)
    Member’s
Equity
(Deficit)
    Noncontrolling
Interest
 
Balance - December 31, 2018     (5,613,413 )     4,000,200       3,441,493       (11,003,876 )     (2,095,823 )     44,593  
Capital contributions     1,774,879       -       397,121       -       1,377,758       -  
Distributions and dividends     (1,218,036 )     -       (150,000 )     -       (1,067,515 )     (521 )
Net income (loss)     257,076       -       -       (173,554 )     427,787       2,843  
Balance - March 31, 2019     (4,799,494 )     4,000,200       3,688,614       (11,177,430 )     (1,357,793 )     46,915  
                                                 
Balance - December 31, 2017     (10,010,639 )     4,000,200       3,650,309       (10,693,356 )     (7,012,369 )     44,577  
Capital contributions     1,184,512       -       135,577       -       1,046,284       2,651  
Distributions and dividends     (2,007,003 )     -       (100,245 )     -       (1,904,107 )     (2,651 )
Net income (loss)     94,463       -       -       (228,940 )     319,581       3,822  
Balance - March 31, 2018     (10,738,667 )     4,000,200       3,685,641       (10,922,296 )     (7,550,611 )     48,399  

 

( The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited financial statements )

 

7

 

 

Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor
Combined Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Periods Ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Cash flows from operating activities            
Net income     257,076       94,463  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:                
Depreciation     264,150       246,270  
Amortization of in-place intangibles     216,293       210,036  
Amortization of deferred financing costs     3,179       3,125  
Amortization of above market leases     2,370       2,370  
Amortization of below market leases     (88,125 )     (68,588 )
Deferred rent receivable     (5,166 )     854  
Deferred rent expense payable     532       -  
Deferred tax liability     (65,895 )     (187,827 )
Change in assets and liabilities                
Rent and other receivables     109,044       141,556  
Prepaid expenses and other assets     2,067       3,875  
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other     (178,212 )     275,924  
Net cash provided by operating activities     517,313       722,058  
                 
Cash flows from investing activities                
Acquisition of real estate     (645,120 )     (380,477 )
Capital improvements     (11,840 )     -  
Net cash used in investing activities     (656,960 )     (380,477 )
                 
Cash flows from financing activities                
Proceeds from mortgage payable     -       960,000  
Repayments of mortgages payable     (284,801 )     (265,264 )
Capital contributions     1,774,879       1,184,512  
Distributions and dividends     (1,218,036 )     (2,007,003 )
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     272,042       (127,755 )
                 
Net increase in cash and restricted cash     132,395       213,826  
                 
Cash and restricted cash at beginning of period     861,875       694,418  
                 
Cash and restricted cash at end of period   $ 994,270     $ 908,244  

 

( The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited financial statements )

 

8

 

 

Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)

 

1. ORGANIZATION AND DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

 

Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor (the “Predecessor”) is a combination of limited liability companies (the “LLCs”), one C-Corporation (“UPH”), one S-Corporation (“NPM”) and one limited partnership. The Predecessor is not a legal entity. The entities that comprise the Predecessor were majority owned and controlled by Mr. Andrew Spodek at March 31, 2019 and were acquired by contribution to or merger with Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a recently formed company that intends to qualify as a real estate investment trust (the “Company”) and its recently formed operating partnership, Postal Realty LP (the “Operating Partnership”) in connection with the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO”), which closed on May 17, 2019. The Company is the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership.

 

At March 31, 2019, the Predecessor, through the LLCs, UPH, and the limited partnership, owns 190 post office properties in 33 states: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. All the properties are leased to a single tenant, the United States Postal Service (the “USPS”).

 

NPM, a subchapter S Corporation, was formed on November 17, 2004, for the purposes of managing commercial real estate properties.

 

The Company is a Maryland corporation formed on November 19, 2018. The Company elected to be taxed as an S-Corporation under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) effective November 19, 2018, and as such, all federal tax liabilities were the responsibility of the Company’s sole stockholder. In anticipation of the IPO, the Company revoked its S-Corporation election on May 14, 2019. The Company intends to qualify and elect to qualify as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under the Code beginning with its short taxable year ending December 31, 2019. As a REIT, the Company generally will not be subject to federal income tax to the extent that it distributes at least 90% of its taxable income for each tax year to its stockholders. REITs are subject to a number of organizational and operational requirements.

 

2. THE COMPANY’S INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING AND FORMATION TRANSACTIONS

 

The Company’s operations are carried on primarily through the Operating Partnership and wholly owned subsidiaries of the Operating Partnership. Both the Company and the Operating Partnership commenced operations upon completion of the IPO and related formation transactions (the “Formation Transactions”) on May 17, 2019.

 

On May 17, 2019, the Company closed the IPO, pursuant to which it sold 4,500,000 shares of its Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Class A Common Stock”) at a public offering price of $17.00 per share. The Company raised $76.5 million in gross proceeds, resulting in net proceeds of approximately $71.1 million after deducting approximately $5.4 million in underwriting discounts and before giving effect to other expenses relating to the IPO. The Class A Common Stock began trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PSTL” on May 15, 2019.

 

The Company contributed the net proceeds of the IPO to the Operating Partnership in exchange for common units in the Operating Partnership. The Operating Partnership utilized a portion of the net proceeds of the IPO to acquire properties in the Formation Transactions and to repay mortgage debt secured by certain of the Company’s initial properties. The remaining funds are expected to be used for general working capital purposes and to fund future acquisitions.

 

9

 

 

Pursuant to the Formation Transactions, the Operating Partnership acquired the entities that comprised of the Predecessor. These initial property interests and the business and assets of NPM were acquired in exchange for 1,333,112 OP Units, 637,058 shares of Class A Common Stock, 27,206 shares of Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and $1.9 million of cash. In addition, the Operating Partnership purchased a 100% interest in 81 post office properties in exchange for $26.9 million in cash, including approximately $1.0 million paid to Andrew Spodek, the Company’s chief executive officer and a director.

 

In connection with the IPO and Formation Transactions, the Company, through its Operating Partnership, repaid approximately $31.7 million of outstanding indebtedness related to the Predecessor.

 

The accompanying combined consolidated financial statements do not reflect the results of operations and financial position of the Company or Operating Partnership upon completion of the IPO or the Formation Transactions completed on May 17, 2019.

 

3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Basis of presentation

 

The accompanying combined consolidated financial statements of the Predecessor are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). The effect of all significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. A non-controlling interest is defined as the portion of the equity in an entity not attributable, directly or indirectly, to the Predecessor. Non-controlling interests are required to be presented as a separate component of equity in the combined consolidated balance sheets. Accordingly, the presentation of net income is modified to present the income attributed to controlling and non-controlling interests.

 

The accompanying combined consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 8 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements.

 

The information furnished in the accompanying combined consolidated financial statements reflects all adjustments that, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the aforementioned combined financial statements for the interim periods. Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2019 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2019. These interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with, and follow the same policies and procedures as outlined in the audited combined consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018, included in the Company’s final prospectus dated May 14, 2019.

 

Use of estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of commitments and contingencies at the date of the combined consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ materially from these estimates.

 

10

 

 

Real estate

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2019, the Predecessor acquired one property for a purchase price of $645,120, inclusive of acquisition costs of $10,120. The purchase price was allocated to the separately identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities based on their relative fair values at the date of acquisition. The total purchase price was allocated as follows:

 

Land   $ 179,202  
Building and improvements     456,550  
Tenant improvements     18,166  
In-place lease intangibles     69,504  
Below market leases     (78,302 )
Total   $ 645,120  

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, the Predecessor acquired three properties for an aggregate purchase price of $380,477, inclusive of aggregate acquisition costs of $12,047. The purchase price was allocated to the separately identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities based on their relative fair values at the date of acquisition. The total purchase price was allocated as follows:

 

Land   $ 165,827  
Building and improvements     196,530  
Tenant improvements     13,197  
In-place lease intangibles     55,439  
Above market leases     19,603  
Below market leases     (70,119 )
Total   $ 380,477  

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, no impairment loss was recorded.

 

Cash and Restricted Cash

 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid investment securities with maturities at acquisition of three months or less. Restricted cash is presented as escrows and reserves in the accompanying combined consolidated balance sheets. Cash and restricted cash consist of the following:

 

    March 31,
2019 (Unaudited)
    December 31,
2018
 
Cash   $ 394,217     $ 262,926  
Restricted cash:                
Maintenance reserve     600,053       598,949  
Total cash and restricted cash   $ 994,270     $ 861,875  

 

Deferred financing costs

 

Total amortization expense for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, was $3,179 and $3,125, respectively, which is included in interest expense in the accompanying combined consolidated statements of income.

 

The Predecessor will amortize the remaining deferred financing costs as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,   Amount  
2019 - Remaining   $ 9,548  
2020     12,727  
2021     12,727  
2022     12,727  
2023     12,727  
Thereafter     163,095  
   Total   $ 223,551  

 

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Fair Value of Financial instruments

 

The following disclosure of estimated fair value was determined by management using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. However, considerable judgment is necessary to interpret market data and develop estimated fair value. Accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts the Predecessor could realize on disposition of the assets and liabilities at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018. The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts. Cash equivalents, receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses and other liabilities are carried at amounts which reasonably approximate their fair values as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018. The fair value of the Predecessor’s mortgages loans payable and other obligations aggregated approximately $33,423,184 and $33,586,000, as compared to the book value of $34,510,797 and $34,792,419 as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively. The fair value of the Predecessor’s debt was categorized as a level 3 basis (as provided by ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures ). The fair value was estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis valuation based on the borrowing rates currently available to the Predecessor for loans with similar terms and maturities. The fair value of the mortgage debt was determined by discounting the future contractual interest and principal payments by a market rate. Although the Predecessor has determined that the majority of the inputs used to value its derivative financial instruments fall within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, the credit valuation adjustments associated with its derivative financial instruments utilize level 3 inputs, such as estimates of current credit spreads to evaluate the likelihood of default by itself and its counterparties.

 

Disclosure about fair value of assets and liabilities is based on pertinent information available to management as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively. Although management is not aware of any factors that would significantly affect the fair value amounts, such amounts have not been comprehensively revalued for purposes of these financial statements since March 31, 2019 and current estimates of fair value may differ significantly from the amounts presented herein.

 

Accounting Standards Adopted in 2019

 

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2014-09”) and established Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 606. ASU 2014-09, as amended by subsequent ASUs on the topic, establishes a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most of the existing revenue recognition guidance.

 

This standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods that begin on or after December 15, 2018. The Predecessor adopted ASU 2014-09 on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective method however, there was no cumulative effect required to be recognized in retained earnings at the date of application. Substantially all of the Predecessor’s revenue is derived from its tenant leases and therefore falls outside the scope of this guidance. With respect to its fee-derived revenue, the Predecessor earns monthly base management fees subject to the terms of the contractual agreements with entities that are affiliated with the Predecessor for the day-to-day operations and administration of its managed properties. These services are provided in exchange for monthly management fees, which are based on a percentage of revenues collected from post offices owned by entities that are affiliated with the Predecessor. The Predecessor determined that there is no change to revenue recognition for base management fees as the underlying services are considered to be individual performance obligations composed of a series of distinct services satisfied over time, for which revenue is recognized monthly as earned over the life of the management agreement as services are provided. The total amount of consideration from the contracts is variable as it is based on monthly revenues, which are influenced by multiple factors, some of which are outside the Predecessor’s control. Therefore, the Predecessor recognizes the revenue at the end of each month once the uncertainty is resolved. Due to the standardized terms of the management agreements, the Predecessor accounts for all management agreements in a similar, consistent manner. Therefore, no disaggregated information relating to management agreements is presented.

 

Future Application of Accounting Standards

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (“ASU 2016-02”). ASU 2016-02 outlines a new model for accounting by lessees, whereby all leases, existing and new, with lease terms greater than one year will be recognized on the balance sheet. For lessors, however, the accounting remains largely unchanged from the current model, changes have been made to align certain lessor and lessee accounting guidance and the key aspects of the lessor accounting model with new revenue recognition standard discussed above. Under the new guidance, contract consideration will be allocated to its lease components (and non-lease components (such as maintenance). For the Company as a lessor, any non-lease components will be accounted for under ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , unless the Company elects a lessor practical expedient to not separate the non-lease components from the associated lease component (see discussion below). The new guidance also includes a definition of initial direct costs that is narrower than the prior definition in current GAAP (Topic 840, Leases ). This will result in a change to the accounting for the Company’s internal leasing costs, which will be expensed as incurred, as opposed to being capitalized and deferred. Commissions subsequent to successful lease execution will continue to be capitalized.

 

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ASU 2016-02 initially provided for one retrospective transition method; however, a second transition method was later added with ASU 2018-11 as described below. To ease the transition, the new lease accounting guidance permits companies to utilize certain practical expedients in their implementation of the new standard:

 

  A package of three practical expedients that must be elected together for all leases and includes: (i) not reassessing expired or existing contracts as to whether they are or contain leases; (ii) not reassessing lease classification of existing leases and (iii) not reassessing the amount of capitalized initial direct costs for existing leases;

 

  ASU 2016-02 also includes a practical expedient to use hindsight in determining the lease term or assessing purchase options for existing leases and in assessing impairment of right of use assets;

 

  ASU 2018-01,  Land Easements Practical Expedient for Transition to Topic 842  added a transition practical expedient to not reassess existing or expired land easement agreements not previously accounted for as leases; and

 

  A new practical expedient under ASU 2018-11, described below.

 

In July 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-10, Codification Improvements to Topic 842 , Leases . These amendments provide minor clarifications and corrections to ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). In July 2018, the ASB issued ASU No. 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements . The amendments in this Update provide entities with an additional optional transition method to adopt ASU 2016-02. Under this new transition method, an entity may apply the new leases standard at the adoption date instead of the earliest comparative period presented in its financial statements and recognizes a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. Consequently, an entity’s reporting under this additional transition method for the comparative periods presented in the financial statements prior to the adoption date of the new leases standard will continue to be in accordance with current GAAP (Topic 840, Leases ). The amendments in ASU 2018-11 also provide lessors with a practical expedient, by class of underlying asset, to not separate non-lease components from the associated lease component and, instead, to account for those components as a single component if the non-lease components otherwise would be accounted for under the new revenue guidance (“Topic 606”). To elect the practical expedient, the timing and pattern of transfer of the lease and non-lease components must be the same and the lease component must meet the criteria to be classified as an operating lease if accounted for separately. If these criteria are met, the single component will be accounted for under either under Topic 842 or Topic 606 depending on which component(s) are predominant. The lessor practical expedient to not separate non-lease components from the associated component must be elected for all existing and new leases.

 

As lessor, the Company expects that post-adoption substantially all existing leases will have no change in the timing of revenue recognition until their expiration or termination. The Company expects to elect the lessor practical expedient to not separate non-lease components such as maintenance from the associated lease for all existing and new leases and to account for the combined component as a single lease component. The timing of revenue recognition is expected to be the same for the majority of the Company’s new leases as compared to similar existing leases; however, certain categories of new leases could have different revenue recognition patterns as compared to similar existing leases. As lessee, the Company expects to record a right of use asset and related liability for the office lease disclosed in Note 9. Related Party Transactions.

 

In December 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-20  Leases (Topic 842), Narrow-Scope Improvements for Lessors . This ASU modifies ASU No. 2016-02 to permit lessors, as an accounting policy election, not to evaluate whether certain sales taxes and other similar taxes are lessor costs or lessee costs. Instead, those lessors will account for those costs as if they are lessee costs. Consequently, a lessor making this election will exclude from the consideration in the contract and from variable payments not included in the consideration in the contract all collections from lessees of taxes within the scope of the election and will provide certain disclosures (includes sales, use, value added, and some excise taxes and excludes real estate taxes). The Company has elected not to evaluate whether the aforementioned costs are lessor or lessee costs. ASU 2018-20 also provides that certain lessor costs require lessors to exclude from variable payments, and therefore revenue, specifically lessor costs paid by lessees directly to third parties. The amendments also require lessors to account for costs excluded from the consideration of a contract that are paid by the lessor and reimbursed by the lessee as variable payments. A lessor will record those reimbursed costs as revenue.

 

Topic 842 will be effective for the Company on January 1, 2020 as a result of its classification as an emerging growth company. The Company continues to evaluate the FASB’s activities related to the new leasing standard and the potential impact on its financial results, policies and disclosures upon adoption, including the accounting for costs which may be paid by the lessee directly to a third party, such as real estate taxes.

 

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In December 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-20, Leases — Narrow-Scope Improvements for Lessors which provides guidance to Topic 842 in requiring lessors to recognize certain variable payment amounts in profit or loss in the period when the changes in facts and circumstances on which the variable payment is based occur. This guidance is effective for the Company in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13,  Financial Instruments-Credit Losses  (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments and in November 2018 issued ASU No. 2018-19,  Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses . The guidance changes how entities will measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net income. The guidance replaces the current ‘incurred loss’ model with an ‘expected loss’ approach. The Company will also be required to disclose information about how it developed the allowances, including changes in the factors that influenced the Predecessor’s estimate of expected credit losses and the reasons for those changes. ASU No. 2018-19 excludes operating lease receivables from the scope of this guidance. This guidance will be effective for the Company on January 1, 2022 as a result of its classification as an emerging growth company. The Company is currently in the process of evaluating the impact the adoption of the guidance will have on its combined consolidated financial statements.

 

4. INTANGIBLE ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

 

Amortization of in-place lease intangibles was $216,293 and $210,036 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. This amortization is included in depreciation and amortization in the combined consolidated statements of income. Amortization of acquired above market leases was $2,370 and $2,370 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and is included in rent income in the combined consolidated statements of income. Amortization of acquired below market leases was $88,125 and $68,588 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and is included in rent income in the combined consolidated statements of income.

 

The balance of these intangible assets and liabilities will be amortized as follows:

 

Year ending December 31,   In-Place Lease Intangibles     Below Market Leases     Above Market Leases  
2019 - Remaining   $ 649,965     $ 268,293     $ 5,617  
2020     856,374       354,296       2,927  
2021     825,543       335,784       -  
2022     185,795       314,644       -  
2023     55,741       311,782       -  
Thereafter     15,720       2,247,873       -  
Total   $ 2,589,138     $ 3,832,672     $ 8,544  

 

5. MORTGAGE LOANS PAYABLE

 

The following are the principal balances on the mortgage loans payable as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018:

 

Mortgage loans payable   March 31, 2019     December 31, 2018  
Vision Bank   $ 15,484,514     $ 15,636,243  
Atlanta Postal Credit Union     17,194,853       17,313,481  
First Oklahoma Bank     386,311       389,599  
Vision Bank – 2018     929,048       936,750  
First Oklahoma Bank – 2018     739,622       743,076  
Total mortgage loans payable   $ 34,734,348     $ 35,019,149  

 

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Principal payments on the mortgage loans payable through maturity are as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,   Amount  
2019 – Remaining   $ 849,221  
2020     1,180,685  
2021     17,049,176  
2022     661,457  
2023     698,181  
Thereafter     14,295,628  
      34,734,348  
Less: Deferred financing costs, net     223,551  
Total   $ 34,510,797  

 

The Vision Bank loan, First Oklahoma Bank loan and Vision Bank — 2018 loan contain a personal guaranty of payment by Mr. Spodek. Refer to Note 11. Subsequent Events for a discussion of the repayment of certain of the Predecessor’s mortgage loans payable in conjunction with the Company’s IPO.

 

6. LOANS PAYABLE – RELATED PARTY

 

At March 31, 2018, the Predecessor had interest-only promissory notes in principal amounts aggregating $3,544,215 payable to a related party. The loans bore interest at 1.9% per annum, require interest only payments, and mature between August 1, 2036 through July 1, 2041. In June 2018, pursuant to a loan modification agreement, these notes were assumed by an affiliate of the Predecessor and recorded as an increase in equity of the Predecessor. Interest expense incurred for these notes was $18,616 for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

 

7. OPERATING LEASE AGREEMENTS

 

At March 31, 2019, all of the properties owned by the Predecessor are leased to a single tenant, the USPS. The leases expire at various dates through February 28, 2027.

 

Future minimum rental income to be received on non-cancellable leases is as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,   Amount  
2019 - Remaining   $ 4,225,664  
2020     5,098,410  
2021     4,660,509  
2022     2,444,252  
2023     1,740,243  
Thereafter     2,815,827  
Total   $ 20,984,905  

 

8. INCOME TAXES

 

In order to determine the quarterly provision for income taxes for UPH, the Predecessor used an estimated annual effective tax rate (“ETR”), which is based on expected annual income and statutory tax rates in the various jurisdictions. Certain significant or unusual items are separately recognized as discrete items in the quarter during which they occur and can be a source of variability in the effective tax rates from quarter to quarter. 

 

Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was $39,749 at an effective tax rate of 13.4% and, $24,514 at an effective tax rate of 5.9% for the three months ended March 31, 2018. The effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018 differs from the statutory rate of 21% due to certain entities included in the combined consolidated financial statements that are not subject to tax at the entity level, state taxes and interest and penalties from unrecognized tax benefits primarily related to the utilization of loss carryforwards.

 

The Predecessor has unrecognized tax benefits at March 31, 2019 of $707,920 which is inclusive of interest and penalties. 

 

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9. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

Management fee income

 

The Predecessor recognized management fee income of $257,121 and $312,602 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, from various properties which are affiliated with the owner of NPM. These amounts include accrued management fees receivable of $0 and $80,800 at March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, which is included in rents and other receivables on the combined consolidated balance sheets.

 

Related party lease

 

On October 1, 2018, the Predecessor entered a lease for office space in Cedarhurst, New York with an entity affiliated with the Predecessor (the “Office Lease”). Pursuant to the Office Lease, the monthly rent is $15,000, which will increase by 3% on each anniversary of the lease commencement date. The term of the Office Lease is five years commencing on October 1, 2018 (with rent commencing on January 1, 2019) and will expire on September 30, 2023. For the three months ended March 31, 2019, straight-line rent expense was $45,532 and was recorded in general and administrative expenses in the combined consolidated statements of income.

 

As of March 31, 2019, future minimum rental payments on the noncancelable lease is as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,   Amount  
2019 - Remaining   $ 136,350  
2020     186,791  
2021     192,394  
2022     198,166  
2023     151,944  
Total   $ 865,645  

 

Other Receivables/Other Payables

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2019, the Predecessor paid certain costs on behalf of a related party totaling $45,334, which is recorded in rents and receivables on the combined consolidated balance sheet. Such amount was repaid by the related party in April 2019. During the three months ended March 31, 2019, the Predecessor was advanced certain funds by a related party totaling $20,000, which is recorded in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other on the combined consolidated balance sheet. Such amount was repaid by the Predecessor in April 2019.

 

10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES  

 

At March 31, 2019, the Predecessor was not, and the Company is not currently, involved in any litigation nor to its knowledge is any litigation threatened against the Predecessor or the Company, as applicable, that, in management’s opinion, would result in any material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, or which is not covered by insurance.

 

11. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

As discussed in Note 2, the Company completed the IPO and Formation Transactions on May 17, 2019 and used a portion of the net proceeds to repay approximately $31.7 million of outstanding mortgage debt of the Predecessor secured by certain of the initial properties acquired by the Company in connection with such transactions. See Note 2. The Company’s Initial Public Offering and Formation Transactions.

 

On June 26, 2019, the board of directors of the Company approved and the Company declared a pro-rated cash dividend of $0.063 per share of common stock for the period from May 17, 2019, the closing date of the IPO, to June 30, 2019. The dividend will be payable on July 31, 2019 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on July 9, 2019.

 

In June 2019, the Company, through its Operating Partnership, entered into agreements to acquire three post office properties located in Arkansas, Louisiana and South Carolina for approximately $4.4 million in cash. The transactions are expected to close in the third quarter of 2019, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The following discussion of the financial condition and results of operations of the Company’s accounting Predecessor (the “Predecessor”) should be read in conjunction with the unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto of the Predecessor for the periods ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, included in “Part I, Item 1. Financial Statements” in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this “Quarterly Report”).

 

References to “we,” “our,” “us,” and “the Company” refer to Postal Realty Trust, Inc. a Maryland corporation, together with our consolidated subsidiaries, including Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (our “Operating Partnership”), of which we are the sole general partner and which we refer to in this Quarterly Report as our “Operating Partnership”.

 

Prior to the closing of our initial public offering (the “IPO”) on May 17, 2019, Andrew Spodek, our chief executive officer and a member of our board of directors (the “Board”), directly or indirectly controlled 190 properties that we acquired in the Formation Transactions (as defined below) that were completed simultaneously with the closing of the IPO. Of these 190 properties, 140 were held indirectly by us through a series of holding companies, which we refer to collectively as “UPH.” The remaining 50 properties were owned by Mr. Spodek through 12 limited liability companies and one limited partnership, which we refer to collectively as the “Spodek LLCs.” References to our “Predecessor” are to UPH, the Spodek LLCs and Nationwide Postal Management, Inc., a property management company that we acquired in the Formation Transactions (as defined below), collectively.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

We make statements in this Quarterly Report that are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. In particular, statements pertaining to our capital resources, property performance and results of operations contain forward-looking statements. Likewise, all of our statements regarding anticipated growth in our funds from operations and anticipated market conditions, demographics and results of operations are forward-looking statements. You can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “approximately,” “intends,” “plans,” “pro forma,” “estimates” or “anticipates” or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases which are predictions of or indicate future events or trends and which do not relate solely to historical matters. You can also identify forward-looking statements by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions.

 

Forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and you should not rely on them as predictions of future events. Forward-looking statements depend on assumptions, data or methods which may be incorrect or imprecise and we may not be able to realize them. We do not guarantee that the transactions and events described will happen as described (or that they will happen at all). The following factors, among others, could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those set forth or contemplated in the forward-looking statements:

 

defaults on, early terminations of or non-renewal of leases by the United States Postal Service (the “USPS”);

 

change in the demand for postal services delivered by the USPS;

 

change in the status of the USPS as an independent agency of the executive branch of the U.S. federal government;

 

the solvency and financial health of the USPS;

 

the competitive environment in which we operate;

 

adverse economic or real estate developments, either nationally or in the markets in which our properties are located;

 

decreased rental rates or increased vacancy rates;

 

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our failure to successfully operate developed and acquired properties;

 

fluctuations in mortgage rates and increased operating costs;

 

general economic conditions;

 

financial market fluctuations;

 

lack or insufficient amounts of insurance;

 

conflicts of interests with our officers and/or directors;

 

our failure to obtain necessary outside financing on favorable terms or at all;

 

environmental uncertainties and risks related to adverse weather conditions and natural disasters;

 

difficulties in identifying or completing acquisition opportunities;

 

other factors affecting the real estate industry generally;

 

our failure to qualify and maintain our qualification as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) for federal income tax purposes;

 

limitations imposed on our business and our ability to satisfy complex rules in order for us to qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes; and

 

changes in governmental regulations or interpretations thereof, such as real estate and zoning laws and increases in real property tax rates and taxation of REITs.

 

While forward-looking statements reflect our good faith beliefs, they are not guarantees of future performance. We disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, of new information, data or methods, future events or other changes after the date of this Quarterly Report, except as required by applicable law. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements that are based on information currently available to us or the third parties making the forward-looking statements.

 

Overview

 

The Company

 

We were formed as a Maryland corporation on November 19, 2018 and commenced operations upon completion of our IPO on May 17, 2019 and the related formation transactions (“Formation Transactions”). We conduct our business through a traditional UPREIT structure in which our properties are owned by our Operating Partnership directly or through limited partnerships, limited liability companies or other subsidiaries. Upon completion of our IPO and the Formation Transactions, we currently own and manage a portfolio of 271 postal properties located in 41 states comprising 871,843 net leasable interior square feet, all of which are leased to the USPS, and through our taxable REIT subsidiary (“TRS”), Postal Realty Management TRS, LLC (“PRM”), we provide fee-based third party property management services for an additional 404 postal properties currently leased to the USPS and owned by family members of Mr. Spodek and their partners. We are the sole general partner of our Operating Partnership through which our postal properties are directly or indirectly owned. We own approximately 78.6% of the outstanding common units of limited partnership interest in the Operating Partnership (“OP Units”). Our Board oversees our business and affairs.

 

On May 17, 2019, we closed the IPO, pursuant to which we sold 4,500,000 shares of our Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (our “Common Stock”), at a public offering price of $17.00 per share. We raised $76.5 million in gross proceeds, resulting in net proceeds to us of approximately $71.1 million after deducting approximately $5.4 million in underwriting discounts and before giving effect to other expenses relating to the IPO. Our Common Stock began trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PSTL” on May 15, 2019. In connection with the IPO and the Formation Transactions, we also issued 1,333,112 OP Unites, 637,058 shares of Class A common stock and 27,206 shares of Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share (our “Class B Common Stock”), to Mr. Spodek in exchange for certain properties and interests.

 

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The interim financial statements of the Company and of the Predecessor do not reflect the closing of the IPO or the Formation Transactions.

 

The Company elected to be taxed as an S-Corporation under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) effective November 19, 2018, and as such, all federal tax liabilities were the responsibility of the Company’s sole stockholder. In anticipation of the IPO, the Company revoked its S-Corporation election on May 14, 2019. The Company intends to qualify and elect to qualify as a REIT under the Code beginning with its short taxable year ending December 31, 2019. As a REIT, the Company generally will not be subject to federal income tax to the extent that it distributes at least 90% of its taxable income for each tax year to its stockholders. REITs are subject to a number of organizational and operational requirements.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012, or the JOBS Act, and we are eligible to take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not “emerging growth companies,” including not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and shareholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. If we continue to take advantage of these exemptions, we do not know if some investors will find our shares of our common stock less attractive as a result. The result may be a less active trading market for our shares of our common stock and our share price may be more volatile.

 

In addition, the JOBS Act also provides that an “emerging growth company” can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards. In other words, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. We intend to avail ourselves of these exemptions; although, subject to certain restrictions, we may elect to stop availing ourselves of these exemptions in the future even while we remain an “emerging growth company.”

 

We will remain an “emerging growth company” until the earliest to occur of (i) the last day of the fiscal year during which our total annual revenue equals or exceeds $1.07 billion (subject to periodic adjustment for inflation), (ii) the last day of the fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of this offering, (iii) the date on which we have, during the previous three-year period, issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt or (iv) the date on which we are deemed to be a “large accelerated filer” under the Exchange Act.

 

We are also a “smaller reporting company” as defined in Regulation S-K under the Securities Act and have elected to take advantage of certain of the scaled disclosures available to smaller reporting companies. We may be a smaller reporting company even after we are no longer an “emerging growth company.”

 

Factors That May Influence Future Results of Operations

 

The USPS

 

The USPS is our sole tenant, and, as such, we are substantially dependent on the USPS’s financial and operational stability. The USPS is currently facing a variety of circumstances that are threatening its ability to fund its operations and other obligations as currently conducted without intervention by the federal government.

 

The USPS is constrained by laws and regulations that restrict revenue sources and mandate certain expenses and cap its borrowing capacity. As a result, the USPS is unable to fund its mandated expenses and continues to be subject to mandated payments to its retirement system and health benefits for current workers and retirees. The USPS has taken the position that productivity improvements and cost reduction measures alone without legislative and regulatory intervention will not be sufficient to maintain the ability to meet all of its existing legal obligations when due.

 

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Revenues

 

We derive revenues primarily from rents, tenant reimbursements under leases with the USPS for our properties, and fee and other income under the management agreements with respect to the third party postal properties managed by PRM, our taxable REIT subsidiary. Rent income represents the lease revenue recognized under leases with the USPS. Tenant reimbursements represent payments made by the USPS under the leases to reimburse real estate taxes at each property. Fee and other income principally represent revenue PRM receives from third parties pursuant to the management agreements and typically is a percentage of the lease revenue for the managed property. Factors that could affect our rent income, tenant reimbursement and fee and other income in the future include, but are not limited to: (i) our ability to renew or replace expiring leases and management agreements; (ii) local, regional or national economic conditions; (iii) an oversupply of, or a reduction in demand for, post office space; (iv) changes in market rental rates; (v) changes to the USPS’s current property leasing program or form of lease; and (vi) our ability to provide adequate services and maintenance at our properties and managed properties.

 

Operating Expenses

 

We lease our properties to the USPS. The majority of our leases are modified double-net leases, whereby the USPS is responsible for utilities, routine maintenance and the reimbursement of property taxes and the landlord is responsible for insurance and roof and structure. Thus, an increase in costs related to the landlord’s responsibilities under these leases could negatively influence our operating results.

 

Operating expenses generally consist of real estate taxes, property operating expenses, which consist of insurance, repairs and maintenance (other than those for which the tenant is responsible), property maintenance-related payroll and depreciation and amortization. Factors that may affect our ability to control these operating costs include, but are not limited to: the cost of periodic repair; renovation costs; the cost of re-leasing space; and the potential for liability under applicable laws. Recoveries from the tenant are recognized as revenue on an accrual basis over the periods in which the related expenditures are incurred. Tenant reimbursements and operating expenses are recognized on a gross basis, because (i) generally, we are the primary obligor with respect to the real estate taxes and (ii) we bear the credit risk in the event the tenant does not reimburse the real estate taxes.

 

The expenses of owning and operating a property are not necessarily reduced when circumstances, such as market factors and competition, cause a reduction in income from the property. If revenues drop, we may not be able to reduce our expenses accordingly. Costs associated with real estate investments generally will not be materially reduced even if a property is not fully occupied or other circumstances cause our revenues to decrease. As a result, if revenues decrease in the future, static operating costs may adversely affect our future cash flow and results of operations.

 

General and Administrative

 

General and administrative expenses include employee compensation costs, professional fees, consulting, portfolio servicing costs and other general and administrative expenses. Our Predecessor was privately owned and historically did not incur costs that we incur as a public company, including increased legal, insurance, accounting and other expenses related to corporate governance, filing reports with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and the New York Stock Exchange, and other compliance matters. In addition, while we expect that our general and administrative expenses will continue to rise as our portfolio grows, we expect that such expenses as a percentage of our revenues will decrease over time due to efficiencies and economies of scale.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization expense relate primarily to depreciation on properties and improvements and to amortization of certain lease intangibles.

 

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Indebtedness and Interest Expense

 

Interest expense for the Predecessor related primarily to three mortgage loans payable and related party interest-only promissory notes, which are described under Note 5. Mortgage Loans Payable and Note 6. Loans Payable — Related Party in the notes to the Predecessor’s financial statements. As a result of the Formation Transactions, we assumed certain indebtedness of the Predecessor, a portion of which was repaid without penalty using a portion of the net proceeds from our IPO. Consistent with the method adopted by our Predecessor, we amortize on a non-cash basis the deferred financing costs associated with its debt to interest expense using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest rate method over the terms of the related notes. Any changes to the debt structure, including debt financing associated with property acquisitions, could materially influence the operating results depending on the terms of any such indebtedness.

 

Income Tax Benefit (Expense)

 

As a REIT, we generally will not be subject to federal income tax on our net taxable income that we distribute currently to our stockholders. Under the Code, REITs are subject to numerous organizational and operational requirements, including a requirement that they distribute each year at least 90% of their REIT taxable income, determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding any net capital gains. If we fail to qualify for taxation as a REIT in any taxable year and do not qualify for certain statutory relief provisions, our income for that year will be taxed at regular corporate rates, and we would be disqualified from taxation as a REIT for the four taxable years following the year during which we ceased to qualify as a REIT. Even if we qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes, we may still be subject to state and local taxes on our income and assets and to federal income and excise taxes on our undistributed income. Additionally, any income earned by PRM, and any other TRS we form in the future, will be subject to federal, state and local corporate income tax.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Refer to the heading titled “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” in Company’s final prospectus dated May 14, 2019 for a discussion of our critical accounting policies and estimates. During the three months ended March 31, 2019, there were no material changes to these policies, other than the adoption of the Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606,  Revenue from Contracts with Customers , described in Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies to the unaudited combined consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report.

 

Results of Operations

 

The following discussion of results of operations addresses the Predecessor for the applicable periods which ended prior to our IPO and the Formation Transactions, except with respect to discussions about our IPO or the Formation Transactions, as applicable.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2018, our Predecessor acquired three properties for the aggregate purchase price of approximately $0.4 million, inclusive of acquisition costs.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2019, our Predecessor acquired one property for a purchase price of approximately $0.7 million, inclusive of acquisition costs.

 

As a result of the completion of our IPO and the Formation Transactions, effective as of May 17, 2019, we own and manage a portfolio of 271 postal properties located in 41 states comprising 871,843 net leasable interior square feet, all of which are leased to the USPS, and through PRM, we provide fee-based third party property management services for an additional 404 postal properties leased to the USPS and owned by members of Mr. Spodek’s family and their partners.

 

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Comparison of the Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 and the Three Months Ended March 31, 2018

 

The following discussion includes the results of the operations of the Predecessor as summarized in the table below:

 

    Predecessor  
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
2019
    Three Months Ended
March 31,
2018
    % Change  
Revenues:                        
Rent income   $ 1,492,386     $ 1,378,110       8.3 %
Tenant reimbursements   $ 236,856     $ 215,257       10.0 %
Fee and other income   $ 286,926     $ 319,903       -10.3 %
Total revenues   $ 2,016,168     $ 1,913,270       5.4 %
Operating Expenses:                        
Real estate taxes   $ 249,789     $ 222,138       12.4 %
Property operating expenses   $ 251,706     $ 226,313       11.2 %
General and administrative   $ 376,891     $ 504,850       -25.3 %
Depreciation and amortization   $ 480,443     $ 456,306       5.3 %
Total operating expenses   $ 1,358,829     $ 1,409,607       -3.6 %
Income from operations   $ 657,339     $ 503,663       30.5 %
Interest expense, net   $ (360,514 )   $ (384,686 )     -6.3 %
Income before income tax expense   $ 296,825     $ 118,977       149 %
Income tax expense   $ (39,749 )   $ (24,514 )     62.1 %
Net income   $ 257,076     $ 94,463       172.1 %

 

For the three months ended March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018, approximately 85.8% and 83.3%, respectively, of the Predecessor’s total revenues were attributable to rental revenue and tenant reimbursements under long-term leases with the USPS, with the balance of total revenues in each year consisting of fee and other income as described below. Total revenues increased by $102,898, or 5.4%, to $2,016,168 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $1,913,270 for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

 

Rent Income. Rent income increased by $114,276, or 8.3%, to $1,492,386 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $1,378,110 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to property acquisitions in 2018 and 2019.

 

Tenant reimbursements. Tenant reimbursements increased by $21,599, or 10.0%, to $236,856 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $215,257 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily resulting from property acquisitions and increased real estate tax rates.

 

Fee and other income . Other revenue decreased by $32,977, or 10.3%, to $286,926 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $319,903 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to lower management fees for the three months ended March 31, 2019, partially offset by increased insurance recoveries of approximately $30,000 in the three months ended March 31, 2019.

 

Expenses

 

Real estate taxes. Real estate taxes increased by $27,651, or 12.4%, to $249,789 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $222,138 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to property acquisitions and increased real estate tax rates.

 

23

 

 

Property operating expenses. Property operating expenses increased by $25,393, or 11.2%, to $251,706 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $226,313 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to the hiring in 2018 of additional property management personnel.

 

General and administrative. General and administrative expenses decreased by $127,959, or 25.3%, to $376,891 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $504,850 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to lower professional fees.

 

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense increased by $24,137, or 5.3%, to $480,443 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $456,306 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to property acquisitions in 2018 and 2019.

 

Interest expense net. Interest expense, net decreased by $24,172, or 6.3%, to $360,514 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $384,686 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to lower outstanding balances as principal paydowns occur.

 

Income tax expense. Income tax expense was $39,749 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 compared to $24,514 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, an increase of 62.1%, primarily as a result of higher taxable income related to UPH.

 

Net Income . Net income increased by $162,613, or 172.1%, to $257,076 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $94,463 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to higher income before income tax expense.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Analysis of Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As of March 31, 2019, our Predecessor had approximately $0.4 million of cash. As of June 26, 2019, the Company has approximately $11.2 million of cash.

 

We expect that our short-term liquidity requirements will consist primarily of funds necessary to pay our operating expenses, payment of dividends to our stockholders, and potentially, significant capital expenditures related to our postal properties. We expect to meet our short-term liquidity requirements primarily from cash and cash equivalents, including remaining amounts raised in our IPO, net cash from operating activities and borrowings under the revolving credit facility that we expect to put in place during the second half of 2019.

 

Our long-term liquidity requirements consist primarily of funds necessary to acquire additional postal properties and repay indebtedness. We expect to meet our long-term liquidity requirements through various sources of capital, including borrowings under the revolving credit facility that we expect to put in place during the second half of 2019, net cash from operating activities, future debt and equity financings and proceeds from select sales of our properties. However, in the future, there may be a number of factors that could have a material and adverse effect on our ability to access these capital sources, including unfavorable conditions in the overall equity and credit markets, our degree of leverage, our unencumbered asset base, borrowing restrictions imposed by our lenders, general market conditions for REITs, our operating performance, liquidity and market perceptions about us. The success of our business strategy will depend, to a significant degree, on our ability to access these various capital sources. In addition, we continuously evaluate possible acquisitions of postal properties, which largely depend on, among other things, the market for owning and leasing postal properties and the terms on which the USPS will enter into new or renewed leases.

 

To maintain our qualification as a REIT, we must make distributions to our stockholders aggregating annually at least 90% of our REIT taxable income determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding capital gains. See “Federal Income Tax Considerations—Taxation of Our Company—Distribution Requirements” in our Registration Statement for more information. As a result of this requirement, we cannot rely on retained earnings to fund our business needs to the same extent as other entities that are not REITs. If we do not have sufficient funds available to us from our operations to fund our business needs, we will need to find alternative ways to fund those needs. Such alternatives may include, among other things, divesting ourselves of properties (whether or not the sales price is optimal or otherwise meets our strategic long-term objectives), incurring indebtedness or issuing equity securities in public or private transactions, the availability and attractiveness of the terms of which cannot be assured.

 

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Indebtedness Outstanding as of March 31, 2019

 

As of March 31, 2019, our Predecessor had approximately $34.7 million of outstanding combined indebtedness, none of which was variable rate debt. Historically, our Predecessor’s equity capital was principally provided by Mr. Spodek as majority equity owner of the Predecessor entities and its debt capital was principally provided through first mortgage loans on the Predecessor Properties and promissory notes payable to related parties. Following the completion of the IPO and Formation Transactions, we repaid approximately $31.7 million of indebtedness of the Predecessor using a portion of the net proceeds from the IPO. We believe that the completion of our IPO improved our Predecessor’s financial position by allowing us to reduce our outstanding indebtedness and will provide us various financing sources that may not have previously been available to us as a privately owned company.

 

Indebtedness Repaid in Connection with Our IPO

 

Upon the completion of our IPO, our Operating Partnership used a portion of the net proceeds therefrom to repay approximately $31.7 million of outstanding indebtedness that the Company assumed pursuant to the Formation Transactions. As a result, we have approximately $2.9 million of total indebtedness outstanding at June 26, 2019, with a weighted average interest rate of 4.4% per annum, all of which is fixed rate debt.

 

The following table sets forth information as of March 31, 2019 with respect to the indebtedness of the Predecessor that was repaid with the net proceeds from our IPO:

 

   

Amount

Outstanding at

March 31,
2019

   

Amount

Repaid (1)

    Interest Rate (2)   Maturity Date
Vision Bank   $ 15,484,514     $ 13,825,901     4.00%, Prime + 0.5% (3)   September 2036
Atlanta Postal Credit Union     17,194,853       17,117,032     4.15%   September 2021
First Oklahoma Bank     386,311           4.5%, Prime + .25% (4)   December 2037
Vision Bank—2018     929,048           5.00%, Prime+ 0.5% (5)   January 2038
First Oklahoma Bank—2018     739,622       739,622     5.5%, Prime (6)   October 2043
Total   $ 34,734,348     $ 31,682,555          

 

 

(1) Amounts based on debt principal balances as of the closing of our IPO.

(2) Prime refers to the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate.

(3) Interest rate resets on September 8, 2021.

(4) Interest rate resets on December 31, 2022.

(5) Interest rate resets on January 31, 2023.

(6) Interest rate resets on October 31, 2023.

 

The following discussion relates to indebtedness of the Predecessor as of March 31, 2019.

 

Vision Bank Loan . In September 2016, the Predecessor repaid the mortgage loans that were secured by 26 properties with the proceeds of a mortgage loan from Vision Bank in the aggregate principal amount of approximately $16.9 million. As of March 31, 2019, approximately $15.5 million was outstanding under the Vision Bank loan which requires monthly payments of principal based on a 30-year amortization schedule, plus interest at 4% per annum through September 2021, after which the interest rate will reset at a variable rate equal to the Wall Street Journal prime rate, plus 0.5%. The Vision Bank mortgage loan matures on September 8, 2036, at which time all accrued interest and unpaid principal are due. The loan is collateralized by first mortgage liens on 26 properties and a personal guarantee of payment by Mr. Spodek. On May 17, 2019, our Operating Partnership used a portion of the net proceeds from our IPO to repay approximately $13.8 million of outstanding indebtedness under the Vision Bank loan. As of June 26, 2019, approximately $1.6 million was outstanding under the Vision Bank loan.

 

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Atlanta Postal Credit Union Loan . The Predecessor had a mortgage loan payable to Atlanta Postal Credit Union in the original principal amount of approximately $19.8 million. As of March 31, 2019, approximately $17.2 million was outstanding under this loan, which bears interest at 4.15% per annum and requires monthly payments of principal and interest of $98,475, until maturity on September 1, 2021, at which time all accrued interest and unpaid principal are due. The mortgage loan is secured by first liens on 140 post office properties that we acquired as part of the Formation Transactions from UPH. On May 17, 2019, our Operating Partnership used a portion of the net proceeds from our IPO to repay approximately $17.1 million, the entire outstanding indebtedness under the Atlanta Postal Credit Union loan.

 

First Oklahoma Bank Mortgage Loan . The Predecessor had a mortgage loan payable in the principal amount of approximately $0.4 million as of March 31, 2019. Such loan requires monthly payments of principal and interest of $2,570 based on a 20-year amortization schedule, plus interest at 4.5% per annum through December 31, 2022, after which the interest rate will reset at a variable rate equal to the Wall Street Journal prime rate, plus 0.25%. The mortgage loan matures on December 13, 2037, at which time all accrued interest and unpaid principal are due. The loan is collateralized by first mortgage liens on four properties and a personal guarantee of payment by Mr. Spodek. As of June 26, 2019, approximately $0.4 million as outstanding under the First Oklahoma Bank mortgage loan.

 

Vision Bank – 2018 . In January 2018, the Predecessor entered into a mortgage loan with Vision Bank in the original amount of $960,000 requiring monthly payments of principal and interest of $6,374 based on a 20-year amortization schedule, and interest at 5% per annum through January 31, 2023, after which the interest rate will reset to a variable rate equal to the Wall Street Journal prime rate, plus 0.5%. The mortgage loan matures on January 31, 2038, at which time all accrued interest and unpaid principal are due. This mortgage loan is collateralized by a first mortgage lien on one property and a personal guaranty of payment by Mr. Spodek. As of June 26, 2019, approximately $0.9 million was outstanding under the Vision Bank – 2018 loan.

 

First Oklahoma Bank – 2018 . In October 2018, the Predecessor entered into a mortgage loan payable with First Oklahoma Bank in the original amount of $747,500 requiring monthly payments of principal and interest of $4,592 based on a 25-year amortization schedule, and interest at 5.5% per annum through October 31, 2023, after which the interest rate will reset to a variable rate equal to the Wall Street Journal prime rate. The mortgage loan matures on October 1, 2043, at which time all accrued interest and unpaid principal are due. On May 17, 2019, our Operating Partnership used a portion of the net proceeds from our IPO to repay approximately $0.7 million, the entire outstanding indebtedness under the First Oklahoma – 2018 loan.

 

None of the indebtedness that our Operating Partnership repaid upon completion of our IPO and the Formation Transactions had any prepayment penalties in connection with repayment prior to maturity.

 

Cash Flows

 

Comparison of the Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 and the Three Months Ended March 31, 2018

 

Our Predecessor had cash of $394,217 and $342,490 as of March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018, respectively.

 

Our Predecessor’s net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $204,745, or 28.4%, to $517,313 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $722,058 for the three months ended March 31, 2018. The decrease was primarily due to timing of accounts payable and accrued expenses offset by higher revenues as a result of acquisitions.

 

Our Predecessor’s net cash used in investing activities increased by $276,483, or 72.7%, to $656,960 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $380,477 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to acquisitions of real estate and capital improvements.

 

Our Predecessor’s net cash provided by (used in) financing activities increased by $399,797, or 312.9%, to $272,042 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 from $(127,255) for the three months ended March 31, 2018, primarily due to a decrease in net distributions and dividends and an increase in contributions offset by lower net borrowings.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of March 31, 2019, our Predecessor did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

Inflation

 

Because most of our leases provide for fixed annual rent payments without annual rent escalations, our rent revenues are fixed while our property operating expenses are subject to inflationary increases. A majority of our leases provide for tenant reimbursement of real estate taxes and thus the tenant must reimburse us for real estate taxes. We believe that over time inflationary increases in expenses will be reflected in increased lease renewal rent rates.

 

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Recent Developments

 

On June 26, 2019, the board of directors of the Company approved and the Company declared a pro-rated cash dividend of $0.063 per share of common stock for the period from May 17, 2019, the closing date of the Company's IPO, to June 30, 2019. The dividend will be payable on July 31, 2019 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on July 9, 2019.

 

In June 2019, the Company, through its Operating Partnership, entered into agreements to acquire three post office properties located in Arkansas, Louisiana and South Carolina for approximately $4.4 million in cash. The transactions are expected to close in the third quarter of 2019, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “Exchange Act”)) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports under the Exchange Act is processed, recorded, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and regulations of the SEC and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and President, Treasurer and Secretary (Principal Financial Officer), as appropriate, to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

 

We have carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, regarding the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on the foregoing, our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer have concluded, as of the end of the period covered by this report, that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by us in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act (i) is processed, recorded, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow for timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

We are executing on our plan to remedy the material weakness, described in the Company’s final prospectus dated May 14, 2019, including (i) initiating a full internal review and evaluation of key processes, procedures and documentation and related control procedures, and the subsequent testing of those controls, (ii) hiring additional accounting resources, including our Chief Accounting Officer, Matt Brandwein, who joined us in January 2019, with the appropriate level of technical experience and training in the application of technical accounting guidance to non-routine and complex transactions in order to properly analyze, review, record and report on business transactions, and (iii) implementing policies and procedures focusing on enhancing the review and approval of all relevant data to support our assumptions and judgments in non-routine and complex transactions appropriately and timely and documenting such review and approval. We also have made organizational changes and developed skills in our employees in order to strengthen and improve our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Management believes that these measures will remediate the previously identified material weakness. While we have completed our initial testing of these new controls and have concluded they are in place and operating as designed, we are monitoring their ongoing effectiveness, and will consider the material weakness remediated after the applicable remedial controls operate effectively for an additional period of time.

 

Except as otherwise stated above, there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

27

 

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, we may in the future be party to various claims and routine litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. Our management does not believe that any such litigation will materially affect our financial position or operations.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

There have been no material changes from the risk factors disclosed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” of our Registration Statement.

 

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

On May 17, 2019, we closed our IPO, pursuant to which we sold 4,500,000 shares of our Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, to the public at a public offering price of $17.00 per share. We raised $76.5 million in gross proceeds, resulting in net proceeds to us of approximately $71.1 million after deducting approximately $5.4 million in underwriting discounts and before giving effect to other expenses relating to the IPO . All of the 4,500,000 shares of our Class A Common Stock were sold pursuant to our registration statement on Form S-11 , as amended (File No.333-230684), that was declared effective by the SEC on May 14, 2019. Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, BMO Capital Markets Corp. and Height Capital Markets, LLC served as bookrunning managers for the offering and as representatives of the several underwriters.

 

In connection with the closing of our IPO and the Formation Transactions and pursuant to certain merger and contribution agreements, we issued to (i) Mr. Spodek an aggregate of (a) 637,058 shares of our Class A Common Stock with an aggregate value of approximately $10.8 million based on the IPO price and (b) 27,206 shares of our Class B Common Stock with an aggregate value of approximately $0.5 million if based on the IPO price, and (ii) Mr. Spodek and his affiliates an aggregate of 1,333,112 OP Units with an aggregate value of approximately $22.7 million based on the IPO price. The issuance of such shares and OP Units, as applicable, was effected in reliance upon exemptions from registration provided by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and Regulation D of the Securities Act. Pursuant to the limited partnership agreement of our Operating Partnership and subject to the requirements and restrictions set forth therein, limited partners of our Operating Partnership will have the right, commencing one year from the date of issuance of such units, to require our Operating Partnership to redeem part or all of their OP Units in exchange for cash or, at our Operating Partnership’s option, for shares of our Class A common stock on a one-for-one basis.

 

There has been no material change in our planned use of proceeds from our IPO as described in the final prospectus filed with the SEC on May 16, 2019.

 

28

 

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 5. Other Information

 

In June 2019, the Company, through its Operating Partnership, entered into agreements to acquire three post office properties located in Arkansas, Louisiana and South Carolina for approximately $4.4 million in cash. The transactions are expected to close in the third quarter of 2019, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

 

Item 6. Exhibits

  

Exhibit   Exhibit Description
3.1*   Articles of Amendment and Restatement of the Company, dated as of May 15, 2019
3.2*   Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company, effective as of May 15, 2019
10.1*   First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Postal Realty LP, dated May 16, 2019
10.2*†   Contribution Agreement, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and between Unlimited Postal Holdings, LP and Postal Realty LP
10.3*†   Contribution Agreement, dated effective as of May 16, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Postal Realty LP
10.4*†   Contribution Agreement, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and among Andrew Spodek, IDJ Holdings, LLC, Tayaka Holdings, LLC and Postal Realty LP
10.5*   Contribution Agreement, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and between Nationwide Postal Management Holdings, Inc. and Postal Realty LP
10.6*   Contribution Agreement, dated effective as of May 14, 2019, by and between Postal Realty LP and Postal Realty Management TRS, LLC
10.7*   Agreement and Plan of Merger, by and among Postal Realty Trust, Inc., UPH Merger Sub, LLC, United Postal Holding, Inc. and Andrew Spodek, dated as of May 16, 2019
10.8*   Agreement of Purchase and Sale, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Rosalind Spodek
10.9*   Agreement of Purchase and Sale, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Sara Nathanson
10.10*   Agreement of Purchase and Sale, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Joseph Nathanson
10.11*†   Agreement of Purchase and Sale, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Bessi Marmer
10.12*†  

Agreement of Purchase and Sale, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and IDJ Holdings, LLC

10.13*  

Agreement of Purchase and Sale, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Asset 90047, LLC

10.14*   Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and among Postal Realty Trust, Inc., Postal Realty LP and Andrew Spodek
10.15*  

Tax Indemnification Agreement, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and among Postal Realty Trust, Inc., United Properties Holding, Inc. United Post Office Investments, Inc. and Andrew Spodek

 

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10.16*   Form of Right of First Offer Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 of the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-11/A filed with the Commission on May 7, 2019)
10.17*   Tax Protection Agreement, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and among Postal Realty LP, Postal Realty Trust, Inc., Andrew Spodek, Tayaka Holdings, LLC and IDJ Holdings, LLC
10.18*   Tax Protection Agreement, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and among Postal Realty LP, Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Nationwide Postal Management Holdings, Inc.
10.19*   Tax Protection Agreement, dated as of May 14, 2019, by and among Postal Realty LP, Postal Realty Trust and Unlimited Postal Holdings LP
10.20*   Form of Third Party Management Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 of the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-11/A filed with the Commission on May 7, 2019)
10.21*   Indemnification Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Patrick Donahoe
10.22*   Indemnification Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Anton Feingold
10.23*   Indemnification Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Jeremy Garber
10.24*   Indemnification Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Jane Gural-Senders
10.25*   Indemnification Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Barry Lefkowitz
10.26*   Indemnification Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Andrew Spodek
10.27*   Indemnification Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Matt Brandwein
10.28*†   Employment Agreement, dated June 26, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Andrew Spodek
10.29*†   Employment Agreement, dated June 26, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and Jeremy Garber
31.1*   Certification of Chief Executive Officer furnished pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
31.2*   Certification of President, Treasurer and Secretary furnished pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
32.1*   Certification of Chief Executive Officer furnished pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
32.2*   Certification of President, Treasurer and Secretary furnished pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS   INSTANCE DOCUMENT**
101.SCH   SCHEMA DOCUMENT**
101.CAL   CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT**
101.LAB   LABELS LINKBASE DOCUMENT**
101.PRE   PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT**
101.DEF   DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT**

 

 

* Exhibits filed with this report.
Compensatory plan or arrangement.
** Submitted electronically herewith. Attached as Exhibit 101 to this report are the following documents formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Income; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Equity; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

30

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. 

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
     
Date: June 27, 2019 By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Andrew Spodek
    Chief Executive Officer
    (Principal Executive Officer)
     
Date: June 27, 2019 By: /s/ Jeremy Garber
    Jeremy Garber
    President, Treasurer and Secretary
    (Principal Financial Officer)

 

 

31

 

 

Exhibit 3.1

 

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.

 

ARTICLES OF AMENDMENT AND RESTATEMENT

 

FIRST :          Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Corporation”), desires to amend and restate its charter as currently in effect and as hereinafter amended.

 

SECOND :     The following provisions are all the provisions of the charter currently in effect and as hereinafter amended:

 

ARTICLE I

 

INCORPORATOR

 

James V. Davidson, whose address is c/o Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP, 951 East Byrd Street, Richmond, VA 23219, being at least 18 years of age, formed a corporation under the general laws of the State of Maryland on November 19, 2018.

 

ARTICLE II

 

NAME

 

The name of the corporation (the “Corporation”) is:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

ARTICLE III

 

PURPOSE

 

The purposes for which the Corporation is formed are to engage in any lawful act or activity (including, without limitation or obligation, engaging in business as a real estate investment trust under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or any successor statute (the “Code”)) for which corporations may be organized under the general laws of the State of Maryland as now or hereafter in force. For purposes of the charter of the Corporation (the “Charter”), “REIT” means a real estate investment trust under Sections 856 through 860 of the Code or any successor provisions.

 

 

 

 

ARTICLE IV

 

PRINCIPAL OFFICE IN STATE AND RESIDENT AGENT

 

The address of the principal office of the Corporation in the State of Maryland is c/o CSC-Lawyers Incorporating Service Company, 7 St Paul Street, Suite 820, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. The name of the resident agent of the Corporation in the State of Maryland is CSC-Lawyers Incorporating Service Company whose post address is 7 St Paul Street, Suite 820, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. The resident agent is a Maryland corporation.

 

ARTICLE V

 

PROVISIONS FOR DEFINING, LIMITING

AND REGULATING CERTAIN POWERS OF THE

CORPORATION AND OF THE STOCKHOLDERS AND DIRECTORS

 

Section 5.1            Number of Directors . The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed under the direction of the Board of Directors. The number of directors of the Corporation is currently one, which number may be increased or decreased only by the Board of Directors pursuant to the Bylaws of the Corporation (the “Bylaws”), but shall never be less than the minimum number required by the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”). The name of the director who shall serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until his successors are duly elected and qualify is:

 

Andrew Spodek

 

Any vacancy on the Board of Directors may be filled in the manner provided in the Bylaws.

 

The Corporation elects, effective at such time as it becomes eligible under Section 3-802 of the MGCL to make the election provided for under Section 3-804(c) of the MGCL, that, except as may be provided by the Board of Directors in setting the terms of any class or series of stock, any and all vacancies on the Board of Directors may be filled only by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors remaining in office, even if the remaining directors do not constitute a quorum, and any director elected to fill a vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the full term of the directorship in which such vacancy occurred and until a successor is elected and qualifies.

 

Section 5.2            Extraordinary Actions . Except as specifically provided in Section 5.8 (relating to removal of directors) and in Article VIII (relating to amendments to the Charter), notwithstanding any provision of law requiring any action to be taken or approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast a greater number of votes, any such action shall be effective and valid if declared advisable by the Board of Directors and taken or approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter.

 

Section 5.3           Authorization by Board of Directors of Stock Issuance . The Board of Directors may authorize the issuance from time to time of shares of stock of the Corporation of any class or series, whether now or hereafter authorized, or securities or rights convertible into shares of its stock of any class or series, whether now or hereafter authorized, for such consideration as the Board of Directors may deem advisable (or without consideration in the case of a stock split or stock dividend), subject to such restrictions or limitations, if any, as may be set forth in the Charter or the Bylaws.

 

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Section 5.4            Preemptive and Appraisal Rights . Except as may be provided by the Board of Directors in setting the terms of classified or reclassified shares of stock pursuant to Section 6.4 or as may otherwise be provided by a contract approved by the Board of Directors, no holder of shares of stock of the Corporation shall, as such holder, have any preemptive right to purchase or subscribe for any additional shares of stock of the Corporation or any other security of the Corporation which it may issue or sell. Holders of shares of stock shall not be entitled to exercise any rights of an objecting stockholder provided for under Title 3, Subtitle 2 of the MGCL or any successor statute unless the Board of Directors upon such terms and conditions as may be specified by the Board of Directors, determines that such rights apply, with respect to all or any shares of all or any classes or series of stock, to one or more transactions occurring after the date of such determination in connection with which holders of such shares would otherwise be entitled to exercise such rights.

 

Section 5.5            Indemnification and Advance of Expenses . To the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law in effect from time to time, the Corporation shall indemnify and, without requiring a preliminary determination of the ultimate entitlement to indemnification, shall pay or reimburse reasonable expenses in advance of final disposition of a proceeding to (a) any individual who is a present or former director or officer of the Corporation and who is made or threatened to be made a party to, or witness in, the proceeding by reason of his or her service in that capacity and (b) any individual who, while a director or officer of the Corporation and at the request of the Corporation, serves or has served as a director, officer, partner, member, manager, trustee, employee or agent of another corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise and who is made or threatened to be made a party to, or witness in, the proceeding by reason of his or her service in that capacity, in either case, from and against any claim or liability to which such person may become subject or which such person may incur by reason of his or her service in such capacity. The rights to indemnification and advance of expenses provided by the Charter shall vest immediately upon election of a director or officer. The Corporation may, with the approval of its Board of Directors, provide such indemnification and advance of expenses to an individual who served a predecessor of the Corporation in any of the capacities described in (a) or (b) above and to any employee or agent of the Corporation or a predecessor of the Corporation. The indemnification and payment or reimbursement of expenses provided in the Charter shall not be deemed exclusive of or limit in any way other rights to which any person seeking indemnification or payment or reimbursement of expenses may be or may become entitled under any bylaw, resolution, insurance, agreement or otherwise.

 

Neither the amendment nor repeal of this Section, nor the adoption or amendment of any other provision of the Charter or the Bylaws inconsistent with this Section, shall apply to or affect in any respect the applicability of the preceding paragraph with respect to any act or failure to act which occurred prior to such amendment, repeal or adoption.

 

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Section 5.6            Determinations by Board of Directors . The determination as to any of the following matters, made by or pursuant to the direction of the Board of Directors, shall be final and conclusive and shall be binding upon the Corporation and every holder of shares of its stock: the amount of the net income of the Corporation for any period and the amount of assets at any time legally available for the payment of dividends, acquisition of its stock or the payment of other distributions on its stock; the amount of paid-in surplus, net assets, other surplus, annual or other cash flow, funds from operations, adjusted funds from operations, net profit, net assets in excess of capital, undivided profits or excess of profits over losses on sales of assets; the amount, purpose, time of creation, increase or decrease, alteration or cancellation of any reserves or charges and the propriety thereof (whether or not any obligation or liability for which such reserves or charges shall have been created shall have been set aside, paid or discharged); any interpretation or resolution of any ambiguity with respect to any provision of the Charter (including any of the terms, preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers or rights, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or other distributions, qualifications or terms or conditions of redemption of any shares of any class or series of stock of the Corporation) or of the Bylaws; the number of authorized or outstanding shares of stock of any class or series of the Corporation; the value, fair value, or any sale, bid or asked price to be applied in determining the value, or fair value, of any asset owned or held by the Corporation or of any shares of stock of the Corporation; any matter relating to the acquisition, holding and disposition of any assets by the Corporation; any interpretation of the terms and conditions of one or more agreements with any person, corporation, association, company, trust, partnership (limited or general) or other entity the compensation of directors, officers, employees or agents of the Corporation; or any other matter relating to the business and affairs of the Corporation or required or permitted by applicable law, the Charter or Bylaws or otherwise to be determined by the Board of Directors.

 

Section 5.7            REIT Qualification . If the Corporation elects to qualify for federal income tax treatment as a REIT, the Board of Directors shall use its reasonable best efforts to take such actions as are necessary or appropriate to preserve the status of the Corporation as a REIT; however, if the Board of Directors determines that it is no longer in the best interests of the Corporation to attempt to, or continue to, qualify as a REIT, the Board of Directors may revoke or otherwise terminate the Corporation’s REIT election pursuant to Section 856(g) of the Code. The Board of Directors, in its sole and absolute discretion, also may (a) determine that compliance with any restriction or limitation on stock ownership and transfers set forth in Article VII is no longer required for REIT qualification and (b) make any other determination or take any other action pursuant to Article VII.

 

Section 5.8            Removal of Directors . Subject to the rights of holders of shares of one or more classes or series of Preferred Stock (as defined below) to elect or remove one or more directors, any director, or the entire Board of Directors, may be removed from office at any time, but only for cause and then only by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast generally in the election of directors. For the purpose of this paragraph, “cause” shall mean, with respect to any particular director, conviction of a felony or a final judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction holding that such director caused demonstrable, material harm to the Corporation through bad faith or active and deliberate dishonesty.

 

  4  

 

 

Section 5.9            Corporate Opportunities . The Corporation shall have the power, by resolution of the Board of Directors, to renounce any interest or expectancy of the Corporation in, or in being offered an opportunity to participate in, business opportunities or classes or categories of business opportunities that are presented to the Corporation or developed by or presented to one or more directors or officers of the Corporation.

 

ARTICLE VI

 

STOCK

 

Section 6.1             Authorized Shares . The Corporation has authority to issue 600,027,206 shares of stock, consisting of 500,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share (“Class A Common Stock”), 27,206 shares of Class B Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share (“Class B Common Stock”, and together with Class A Common Stock and any shares of stock herein reclassified by the Board of Directors pursuant to this Article VI, “Common Stock”), and 100,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share (“Preferred Stock”). The aggregate par value of all authorized shares of stock having par value is $6,000,272.06. If shares of one class or series of stock are classified or reclassified into shares of another class or series of stock pursuant to Section 6.2, 6.3, 6.4 or 6.5 of this Article VI, the number of authorized shares of the former class or series shall be automatically decreased and the number of shares of the latter class or series shall be automatically increased, in each case by the number of shares so classified or reclassified, so that the aggregate number of shares of stock of all classes and series that the Corporation has authority to issue shall not be more than the total number of shares of stock set forth in the first sentence of this paragraph. The Board of Directors, with the approval of a majority of the entire Board of Directors and without any action by the stockholders of the Corporation, may amend the Charter from time to time to increase or decrease the aggregate number of shares of stock or the number of shares of stock of any class or series that the Corporation has authority to issue; provided that the Board of Directors may not (i) amend the Charter to increase the aggregate number of shares of Class B Common Stock that the Corporation has the authority to issue, (ii) classify or reclassify shares of another class of stock into Class B Common Stock or (iii) amend the Charter to alter or repeal this proviso or the last sentence of Article VIII or adopt any provision inconsistent herewith, in each case without approval of the affirmative vote of stockholders of the Corporation entitled to cast a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, other than the holders of Class B Common Stock.

 

Section 6.2            Class A Common Stock . Subject to the provisions of Article VII and except as may otherwise be specified in the Charter, each share of Class A Common Stock shall entitle the holder thereof to one vote for each share held of record by such holder on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. Except as otherwise provided in the Charter, the Board of Directors may reclassify any unissued shares of Class A Common Stock from time to time into one or more classes or series of Common Stock or Preferred Stock. In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of, or any distribution of the assets of, the Corporation, each holder of shares of Class A Common Stock shall be entitled (after payment or provision for payment of the debts and other liabilities of the Corporation and subject to the rights of the holders of shares of any class of stock hereafter classified or reclassified having a preference over the Class A Common Stock as to distributions in the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation) to share ratably in the remaining net assets of the Corporation, together with the holders of shares of any other class of stock now existing or hereafter classified or reclassified not having a preference over Class A Common Stock as to distributions in the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation. The holders of shares of Class A Common Stock shall be entitled to receive dividends and other distributions when and as authorized by the Board of Directors and declared by the Corporation out of cash or other assets legally available therefor. Except as expressly provided in this Article VI, shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock shall have the same rights and privileges and rank equally, share ratably in dividends and other distributions and be identical in all respects as to all matters. Except as otherwise provided in the Charter, holders of shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock shall vote together as a single class.

 

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Section 6.3            Class B Common Stock . Subject to the provisions of Article VII and except as may otherwise be specified in the Charter, the shares of Class B Common Stock shall have the additional preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions and qualifications as follows:

 

Section 6.3.1            Definitions . For the purpose of this Section 6.3, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

 

Affiliate . The term “Affiliate” shall mean, with respect to any Person, (i) any Person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with such Person, or (ii) any officer, director, general partner or trustee of such Person or any Person referred to in the foregoing clause (i). For purposes of this definition, “control,” when used with respect to any Person, means the power to direct the management and policies of such Person, directly or indirectly, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise, and the terms “controlling” and “controlled” have meanings correlative to the foregoing.

 

Beneficial Owner . The term “Beneficial Owner” shall have the meaning set forth in Rule 13d-3 and Rule 13d-5 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”).

 

Beneficial Ownership . The term “Beneficial Ownership” shall mean, with respect to any security, the direct or indirect ownership of such security by any Beneficial Owner of such security, except that, in calculating the beneficial ownership of any particular “person” (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act), such “person” will be deemed to have beneficial ownership of all securities that such “person” has the right to acquire by conversion or exercise of other securities, whether such right is currently exercisable or is exercisable only after the passage of time.

 

Immediate Family . The term “Immediate Family” shall mean, with respect to any natural Person, such natural Person’s spouse, parents, descendants, nephews, nieces, brothers and sisters.

 

  6  

 

 

OP Unit . The term “OP Unit” shall mean a Class A Common Unit or a Class B Common Unit, as such terms are defined in the Partnership Agreement.

 

Operating Partnership . The term “Operating Partnership” shall mean Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership.

 

Partnership Agreement . The term “Partnership Agreement” shall mean the Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Operating Partnership, as amended from time to time.

 

Permitted Transferee . The term “Permitted Transferee” shall mean (i) with respect to a natural Person, any member of his Immediate Family, any trust formed for the benefit of himself and/or members of his Immediate Family or any partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, corporation or other business entity comprised only of himself and/or members of his Immediate Family and entities the ownership interests in which are owned by or for the benefit of himself and/or members of his Immediate Family, (ii) with respect to a trust, the beneficiaries of such trust, (iii) with respect to a partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, corporation or other business entity that receives a transfer pursuant to clause (i) above, its partners, owners or stockholders, as the case may be, who are members of the Immediate Family of or are actually the transferor pursuant to clause (i) above, and (iv) with respect to a partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, corporation or other business entity, to its partners, owners, stockholders or Affiliates, as the case may be, or the Persons owning the beneficial interests in any of its partners, owners or stockholders or Affiliates. A trust or other entity will be considered formed “for the benefit” of a Person’s Immediate Family even though some other Person has a remainder interest under or with respect to such trust or other entity.

 

Person . The term “Person” has the meaning set forth in Article VII below.

 

Transfer . The term “Transfer” (and the correlative terms “Transferring” and “Transferred”) has the meaning set forth in Article VII below; provided that for purposes of this Article VII, “Transfer” (and the correlative terms “Transferring” and “Transferred”) shall not include any hypothecation, pledge or security interest that does not include a transfer or sharing of any voting rights of such securities unless and until the secured party gains possession or control of any such voting rights. The term “Transfer” (and the correlative terms “Transferring” and “Transferred”) shall include the exercise of the redemption rights afforded to holders of OP Units under the Partnership Agreement.

 

Section 6.3.2            Voting Rights . Subject to the provisions of Article VII and except as may otherwise be specified in the Charter, each share of Class B Common Stock shall entitle the holder thereof to fifty (50) votes on each matter on which holders of Class A Common Stock are entitled to vote. Except as otherwise provided in the Charter or Bylaws, holders of shares of Class B Common Stock and Class A Common Stock shall vote together as a single class, provided that holders of shares of Class B Common Stock will have exclusive voting power with respect to an amendment to the Charter that would materially and adversely affect any right or voting power of the Class B Common Stock.

 

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Section 6.3.3            Distribution Rights . Subject to the preferences applicable to any class or series of Preferred Stock, if any, outstanding at any time, the holders of shares of Class B Common Stock shall be entitled to share equally, on a per share basis, in such dividends and other distributions of cash, property or shares of stock of the Corporation as may be authorized by the Board of Directors and declared by the Corporation from time to time with respect to outstanding Class A Common Stock out of cash or other assets of the Corporation legally available therefor.

 

Section 6.3.4            Liquidation . In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of, or any distribution of the assets of, the Corporation, each holder of shares of Class B Common Stock shall be entitled (after payment or provision for payment of the debts and other liabilities of the Corporation and to holders of shares of any class of stock hereafter classified or reclassified having a preference over Class B Common Stock as to distributions in the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation) to share ratably in the remaining net assets of the Corporation, together with the holders of shares of any other class of stock hereafter classified or reclassified not having a preference over Class B Common Stock as to distributions in the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation.

 

Section 6.3.5            Conversion . The Class B Common Stock is not convertible into or exchangeable for any other property or securities of the Corporation, except as provided in this Section 6.3.5.

 

(a)           Automatic Conversion . Shares of Class B Common Stock convert automatically into fully-paid and non-assessable shares of Class A Common Stock at a ratio of one (1) share of Class A Common Stock for each share of Class B Common Stock upon the following events and in the following amounts:

 

(i) the Transfer of Beneficial Ownership of Class B Common Stock by a Beneficial Owner thereof, with each share of Class B Common Stock being Transferred converting automatically into Class A Common Stock immediately prior to such Transfer, and

 

(ii) upon the Transfer of Beneficial Ownership of Class B Common Units by a Beneficial Owner of shares of Class B Common Stock, with a number of shares of Class B Common Stock Beneficially Owned by the Beneficial Owner of such Class B Common Units equal to the quotient (rounded up to the nearest whole number) of (x) number of Class B Common Units being Transferred,  divided by (y) forty nine (49), converting automatically into Class A Common Stock immediately prior to such Transfer, such that, for example, the Transfer of Beneficial Ownership of between one (1) and forty nine (49) Class B Common Units results in the automatic conversion of one share of Class B Common Stock, and the Transfer of Beneficial Ownership of between fifty (50) and ninety nine (99) Class B Common Units results in the automatic conversion of two (2) shares of Class B Common Stock.

 

  8  

 

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, (A) if a Transfer of shares of Class B Common Stock or OP Units would otherwise trigger an automatic conversion pursuant to clause (i) or clause (ii) above, such shares of Class B Common Stock shall not be so converted to the extent that the Transfer is made to a Permitted Transferee of such transferring Beneficial Owner;  provided however , that any subsequent Transfers of such Class B Common Units or shares of Class B Common Stock by such Permitted Transferee shall trigger automatic conversion of Class B Common Stock in the amounts and in the manner specified above in this paragraph (a), unless such subsequent Transfer is made to another Permitted Transferee of the original transferring Beneficial Owner, and (B) if a Transfer of shares of Class B Common Units would otherwise trigger an automatic conversion pursuant to clause (ii) above, Class B Common Stock shall not be so converted to the extent that following such Transfer, the transferring Beneficial Owner continues to Beneficially Own at least forty nine (49) Class B Common Units for every share of Class B Common Stock Beneficially Owned by such holder. Any shares of Class B Common Stock automatically converted pursuant to this paragraph (a) shall be converted as and at the times specified in this paragraph (a) without any further action by the holders thereof and whether or not the certificates representing such shares (if any) are surrendered to the Corporation. Upon the automatic conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock pursuant to this paragraph (a), the Beneficial Owner thereof (or transferring Beneficial Owner thereof, if such shares have been Transferred to a Permitted Transferee) shall identify for the Corporation the holder of record of the shares so converted.

 

(b)      Conversion at the Option of the Holder . Pursuant to and in accordance with this paragraph (b), each holder of shares of Class B Common Stock shall have the right, at such holder’s option at any time and from time to time, to convert all or a portion of such holder’s shares of Class B Common Stock into an equal number of fully paid and non-assessable shares of Class A Common Stock by delivering the certificates (if any) representing the shares of Class B Common Stock to be converted, duly endorsed for transfer, together with a written conversion notice to the transfer agent for the Class B Common Stock (or if there is no transfer agent, to the Corporation). Such conversion notice shall state: (i) the number of shares of Class B Common Stock to be converted; and (ii) the date on which such conversion shall occur (which date shall be a Business Day no less than five (5) Business Days and not exceeding twenty (20) Business Days from the date of such conversion notice) (the “Optional Conversion Date”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the shares of Class B Common Stock are held in global form, such notice shall comply with applicable procedures of the Depository Trust Company (“DTC”). In connection with the exercise of any Optional Conversion Right, the Corporation shall comply with all U.S. federal and state securities laws and stock exchange rules in connection with any conversion of shares of Class B Common Stock into shares of Class A Common Stock. Holders of Class B Common Stock may withdraw any conversion notice by a written notice of withdrawal delivered to the Corporation’s transfer agent prior to the close of business on the Business Day prior to the Optional Conversion Date. The notice of withdrawal must state: (x) the number of withdrawn shares of Class B Common Stock; (y) if certificated shares of Class B Common Stock have been issued, the certificate numbers of the withdrawn shares of Class B Common Stock; and (z) the number of shares of Class B Common Stock, if any, which remain subject to the conversion notice. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the shares of Series B Preferred Stock are held in global form, the notice of withdrawal shall comply with applicable DTC procedures. Each conversion pursuant to this paragraph (b) for which the conversion notice has been given and not properly withdrawn shall be deemed to have been effected immediately prior to the close of business on the Optional Conversion Date.

 

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Section 6.4            Equal Status . Except as expressly provided in Article VI, shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock shall have the same rights and privileges and rank equally, share ratably in dividends and other distributions and be identical in all respects as to all matters. In the event that the Corporation splits or subdivides, or effects a reverse stock split or otherwise combines, shares of its outstanding Class A Common Stock or Class B Common Stock, the shares of Class B Common Stock or the Class A Common Stock, respectively, shall be adjusted in a manner, whether by stock split, subdivision, reserve stock split, combination or otherwise, to maintain the correlative voting and distribution rights provided herein.

 

Section 6.5            Preferred Stock . Subject to Section 6.1, the Board of Directors may classify any unissued shares of Preferred Stock and reclassify any previously classified but unissued shares of Preferred Stock of any class or series from time to time, into one or more classes or series of stock.

 

Section 6.6            Classified or Reclassified Shares . Prior to the issuance of classified or reclassified shares of any class or series of stock, the Board of Directors by resolution shall: (a) designate that class or series to distinguish it from all other classes and series of stock of the Corporation; (b) specify the number of shares to be included in the class or series; (c) set or change, subject to the provisions of Article VII and subject to the express terms of any class or series of stock of the Corporation outstanding at the time, the preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends or other distributions, qualifications and terms and conditions of redemption for each class or series; and (d) cause the Corporation to file articles supplementary with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland (the “SDAT”). Any of the terms of any class or series of stock set or changed pursuant to clause (c) of this Section 6.6 may be made dependent upon facts or events ascertainable outside the Charter (including determinations by the Board of Directors or other facts or events within the control of the Corporation) and may vary among holders thereof, provided that the manner in which such facts, events or variations shall operate upon the terms of such class or series of stock is clearly and expressly set forth in the articles supplementary or other charter document.

 

Section 6.7            Action by Stockholders in Lieu of Meeting . Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the holders of Common Stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors may be taken without a meeting by consent, in writing or by electronic transmission, in any manner and by any vote permitted by the MGCL and set forth in the Bylaws.

 

Section 6.8            Charter and Bylaws . The rights of all stockholders and the terms of all stock of the Corporation are subject to the provisions of the Charter and the Bylaws.

 

Section 6.9            Distributions . Except as may otherwise be provided in the terms of any class or series of Preferred Stock, in determining whether a distribution (other than upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up) is permitted under Maryland law, amounts that would be needed, if the Corporation were to be dissolved at the time of the distribution, to satisfy the preferential rights upon dissolution of stockholders whose preferential rights upon dissolution are superior to those receiving the distribution, shall not be added to the Corporation’s total liabilities.

 

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ARTICLE VII

 

RESTRICTION ON TRANSFER AND OWNERSHIP OF SHARES

 

Section 7.1            Definitions . For the purpose of this Article VII, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

 

Beneficial Ownership . The term “Beneficial Ownership” shall mean ownership of Capital Stock by a Person, whether the interest in the shares of Capital Stock is held directly or indirectly (including by a nominee), and shall include interests that would be treated as owned through the application of Section 544 of the Code, as modified by Section 856(h)(1)(B) of the Code. The terms “Beneficial Owner,” “Beneficially Owns” and “Beneficially Owned” shall have the correlative meanings.

 

Business Day . The term “Business Day” shall mean any day, other than a Saturday or Sunday, that is neither a legal holiday nor a day on which banking institutions in New York City are authorized or required by law, regulation or executive order to close.

 

Capital Stock . The term “Capital Stock” shall mean all classes or series of stock of the Corporation, including, without limitation, Common Stock and Preferred Stock.

 

Charitable Beneficiary . The term “Charitable Beneficiary” shall mean one or more beneficiaries of the Trust as determined pursuant to Section 7.3.6, provided that each such organization must be described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Code and contributions to each such organization must be eligible for deduction under each of Sections 170(b)(1)(A), 2055 and 2522 of the Code.

 

Common Stock Ownership Limit . The term “Common Stock Ownership Limit” shall mean 8.5% percent (in value or in number of shares, whichever is more restrictive) of the aggregate of the outstanding shares of Common Stock of the Corporation, or such other percentage determined by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 7.2.8 of the Charter.

 

Constructive Ownership . The term “Constructive Ownership” shall mean ownership of Capital Stock by a Person, whether the interest in the shares of Capital Stock is held directly or indirectly (including by a nominee), and shall include interests that would be treated as owned through the application of Section 318(a) of the Code, as modified by Section 856(d)(5) of the Code. The terms “Constructive Owner,” “Constructively Owns” and “Constructively Owned” shall have the correlative meanings.

 

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Excepted Holder . The term “Excepted Holder” shall mean Andrew Spodek, any Permitted Transferee of Andrew Spodek and any Person who is or would be a Beneficial Owner or Constructive Owner of shares of Common Stock as a result of the Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of shares of Common Stock by Andrew Spodek or his Permitted Transferees or any other stockholder of the Corporation for whom an Excepted Holder Limit is created by the Charter or by the Board of Directors pursuant to Section 7.2.7.

 

Excepted Holder Limit . The term “Excepted Holder Limit” shall mean, provided that the affected Excepted Holder agrees to comply with the requirements established by the Board of Directors pursuant to Section 7.2.7 and subject to adjustment pursuant to Section 7.2.7, the percentage limit established by the Board of Directors pursuant to Section 7.2.7. An Excepted Holder Limit is hereby established permitting Andrew Spodek to Beneficially Own or Constructively Own up to 15% in value or number of shares, whichever is more restrictive, of the outstanding shares of Common Stock, provided that such Excepted Holder Limit shall apply only so long as the Corporation qualifies as a REIT for Federal income tax purposes.

 

Initial Date . The term “Initial Date” shall mean the date of the closing of the issuance of shares of Common Stock pursuant to the initial underwritten public offering of the Corporation.

 

Market Price . The term “Market Price” on any date shall mean, with respect to any class or series of outstanding shares of Capital Stock, the Closing Price for such Capital Stock on such date. The “Closing Price” on any date shall mean the last sale price for such Capital Stock, regular way, or, in case no such sale takes place on such day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices, regular way, for such Capital Stock, in either case as reported in the principal consolidated transaction reporting system with respect to securities listed or admitted to trading on the NYSE or, if such Capital Stock is not listed or admitted to trading on the NYSE, as reported on the principal consolidated transaction reporting system with respect to securities listed on the principal national securities exchange on which such Capital Stock is listed or admitted to trading or, if such Capital Stock is not listed or admitted to trading on any national securities exchange, the last quoted price, or, if not so quoted, the average of the high bid and low asked prices in the over-the-counter market, as reported by the principal automated quotation system that may then be in use or, if such Capital Stock is not quoted by any such organization, the average of the closing bid and asked prices as furnished by a professional market maker making a market in such Capital Stock selected by the Board of Directors or, in the event that no trading price is available for such Capital Stock, the fair market value of the Capital Stock, as determined by the Board of Directors.

 

NYSE . The term “NYSE” shall mean the New York Stock Exchange.

 

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Person . The term “Person” shall mean an individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, estate, trust (including a trust qualified under Sections 401(a) or 501(c)(17) of the Code), a portion of a trust permanently set aside for or to be used exclusively for the purposes described in Section 642(c) of the Code, association, private foundation within the meaning of Section 509(a) of the Code, joint stock company or other entity and also includes a group as that term is used for purposes of Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and a group to which an Excepted Holder Limit applies.

 

Preferred Stock Ownership Limit . The term “Preferred Stock Ownership Limit” shall mean 8.5% percent in value of the aggregate of the outstanding shares of any class or series of Preferred Stock, or such other percentage determined by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 7.2.8 of the Charter.

 

Prohibited Owner . The term “Prohibited Owner” shall mean, with respect to any purported Transfer, any Person who, but for the provisions of this Article VII, would Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Capital Stock in violation of Section 7.2.1, and if appropriate in the context, shall also mean any Person who would have been the record owner of the shares that the Prohibited Owner would have so owned.

 

Restriction Termination Date . The term “Restriction Termination Date” shall mean the first day after the Initial Date on which the Board of Directors determines pursuant to Section 5.7 of the Charter that it is no longer in the best interests of the Corporation to attempt to, or continue to, qualify as a REIT or that compliance with the restrictions and limitations on Beneficial Ownership, Constructive Ownership and Transfers of shares of Capital Stock set forth herein is no longer required in order for the Corporation to qualify as a REIT.

 

TRS . The term “TRS” shall mean a taxable REIT subsidiary (as defined in Section 856(l) of the Code) of the Corporation.

 

Transfer . The term “Transfer” shall mean any issuance, sale, transfer, gift, assignment, devise or other disposition, pledge, hypothecation, grant of security interest or other right to acquire Capital Stock, as well as any other event that causes any Person to acquire Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership, or any agreement to take any such action or cause any such event, of Capital Stock or the right to vote or receive dividends on Capital Stock, including (a) the granting or exercise of any option (or any disposition of any option), (b) any disposition of any securities or rights convertible into or exchangeable for Capital Stock or any interest in Capital Stock or any exercise of any such conversion or exchange right and (c) Transfers of interests in other entities that result in changes in Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of Capital Stock; in each case, whether voluntary or involuntary, whether owned of record, Constructively Owned or Beneficially Owned and whether by operation of law or otherwise. The terms “Transferring” and “Transferred” shall have the correlative meanings.

 

Trust . The term “Trust” shall mean any trust provided for in Section 7.3.1.

 

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Trustee . The term “Trustee” shall mean the Person unaffiliated with the Corporation and a Prohibited Owner that is appointed by the Corporation to serve as trustee of the Trust.

 

Section 7.2            Capital Stock .

 

Section 7.2.1            Ownership Limitations . During the period commencing on the Initial Date and prior to the Restriction Termination Date, but subject to Section 7.4:

 

(a)           Basic Restrictions .

 

(i) (1) No Person, other than an Excepted Holder, shall Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Common Stock in excess of the Common Stock Ownership Limit, (2) no Person, other than an Excepted Holder, shall Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Preferred Stock in excess of the Preferred Stock Ownership Limit and (3) no Excepted Holder shall Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Capital Stock in excess of the Excepted Holder Limit for such Excepted Holder.

 

(ii) No Person shall Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Capital Stock to the extent that such Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of Capital Stock would result in the Corporation being “closely held” within the meaning of Section 856(h) of the Code (without regard to whether the ownership interest is held during the last half of a taxable year), or otherwise failing to qualify as a REIT.

 

(iii) Any Transfer of shares of Capital Stock that, if effective, would result in the Capital Stock being beneficially owned by less than 100 Persons (determined under the principles of Section 856(a)(5) of the Code) shall be void ab initio , and the intended transferee shall acquire no rights in such shares of Capital Stock.

 

(iv) No Person shall Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Capital Stock to the extent such Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership would cause the Corporation to Constructively Own ten percent (10%) or more of the ownership interests in a tenant (other than a TRS) of the Corporation’s real property within the meaning of Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Code.

 

(b)           Transfer in Trust . If any Transfer of shares of Capital Stock occurs which, if effective, would result in any Person Beneficially Owning or Constructively Owning shares of Capital Stock in violation of Section 7.2.1(a)(i), (ii) or (v),

 

(i) then that number of shares of the Capital Stock the Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of which otherwise would cause such Person to violate Section 7.2.1(a)(i), (ii) or (iv) (rounded up to the nearest whole share) shall be automatically transferred to a Trust for the benefit of one or more Charitable Beneficiaries, as described in Section 7.3, effective as of the close of business on the Business Day prior to the date of such Transfer, and such Person shall acquire no rights in such shares; or

 

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(ii) if the transfer to the Trust described in clause (i) of this sentence would not be effective for any reason to prevent the violation of Section 7.2.1(a)(i), (ii) or (iv), then the Transfer of that number of shares of Capital Stock that otherwise would cause any Person to violate Section 7.2.1(a)(i), (ii) or (iv) shall be void ab initio , and the intended transferee shall acquire no rights in such shares of Capital Stock.

 

(iii)        To the extent that, upon a transfer of shares of Capital Stock pursuant to this Section 7.2.1(b), a violation of any provision of this Article VII would nonetheless be continuing (for example where the ownership of shares of Capital Stock by a single Trust would violate the 100 stockholder requirement applicable to REITs), then shares of Capital Stock shall be transferred to that number of Trusts, each having a distinct Trustee and a Charitable Beneficiary or Charitable Beneficiaries that are distinct from those of each other Trust, such that there is no violation of any provision of this Article VII.

 

Section 7.2.2            Remedies for Breach . If the Board of Directors shall at any time determine that a Transfer or other event has taken place that results in a violation of Section 7.2.1 or that a Person intends to acquire or has attempted to acquire Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of any shares of Capital Stock in violation of Section 7.2.1 (whether or not such violation is intended), the Board of Directors shall take such action as it deems advisable to refuse to give effect to or to prevent such Transfer or other event, including, without limitation, causing the Corporation to redeem shares, refusing to give effect to such Transfer on the books of the Corporation or instituting proceedings to enjoin such Transfer or other event; provided , however , that any Transfer or attempted Transfer or other event in violation of Section 7.2.1 shall automatically result in the transfer to the Trust described above, and, where applicable, such Transfer (or other event) shall be void ab initio as provided above irrespective of any action (or non-action) by the Board of Directors.

 

Section 7.2.3            Notice of Restricted Transfer . Any Person who acquires or attempts or intends to acquire Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of shares of Capital Stock that will or may violate Section 7.2.1(a) or any Person who would have owned shares of Capital Stock that resulted in a transfer to the Trust pursuant to the provisions of Section 7.2.1(b) shall immediately give written notice to the Corporation of such event or, in the case of such a proposed or attempted transaction, give at least 15 days prior written notice, and shall provide to the Corporation such other information as the Corporation may request in order to determine the effect, if any, of such Transfer on the Corporation’s status as a REIT.

 

Section 7.2.4            Owners Required To Provide Information . From the Initial Date and prior to the Restriction Termination Date:

 

(a)          every owner of five percent or more (or such lower percentage as required by the Code or the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder) of the outstanding shares of Capital Stock, within 30 days after the end of each taxable year, shall give written notice to the Corporation stating the name and address of such owner, the number of shares of Capital Stock Beneficially Owned and a description of the manner in which such shares are held. Each such owner shall provide to the Corporation such additional information as the Corporation may request in order to determine the effect, if any, of such Beneficial Ownership on the Corporation’s status as a REIT and to ensure compliance with the Common Stock Ownership Limit and the Preferred Stock Ownership Limit; and

 

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(b)          each Person who is a Beneficial Owner or Constructive Owner of Capital Stock and each Person (including the stockholder of record) who is holding Capital Stock for a Beneficial Owner or Constructive Owner shall provide to the Corporation such information as the Corporation may request, in order to determine the Corporation’s status as a REIT and to comply with the requirements of any taxing authority or governmental authority or to determine such compliance.

 

Section 7.2.5            Remedies Not Limited . Subject to Section 5.7 of the Charter, nothing contained in this Section 7.2 shall limit the authority of the Board of Directors to take such other action as it deems necessary or advisable to protect the Corporation in preserving the Corporation’s status as a REIT.

 

Section 7.2.6            Ambiguity . In the case of an ambiguity in the application of any of the provisions of this Section 7.2, Section 7.3 or any definition contained in Section 7.1, the Board of Directors may determine the application of the provisions of this Section 7.2 or Section 7.3 or any such definition with respect to any situation based on the facts known to it. In the event Section 7.2 or Section 7.3 requires an action by the Board of Directors and the Charter fails to provide specific guidance with respect to such action, the Board of Directors may determine the action to be taken so long as such action is not contrary to the provisions of Sections 7.1, 7.2 or 7.3. Absent a decision to the contrary by the Board of Directors, if a Person would have (but for the remedies set forth in Section 7.2.2) acquired Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership of Capital Stock in violation of Section 7.2.1, such remedies (as applicable) shall apply first to the shares of Capital Stock which, but for such remedies, would have been Beneficially Owned or Constructively Owned (but not actually owned) by such Person, pro rata among the Persons who actually own such shares of Capital Stock based upon the relative number of the shares of Capital Stock held by each such Person.

 

Section 7.2.7            Exceptions .

 

(a)          Subject to Section 7.2.1(a)(ii), the Board of Directors, may exempt (prospectively or retroactively) a Person from the Common Stock Ownership Limit and the Preferred Stock Ownership Limit, as the case may be, and may establish or increase an Excepted Holder Limit for such Person if:

 

(i) the Board of Directors obtains such representations and undertakings from such Person as are reasonably necessary for the Board to ascertain that no individual’s Beneficial or Constructive Ownership of such shares of Capital Stock will violate Section 7.2.1(a)(ii); and

 

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(ii) such Person agrees that any violation or attempted violation of such representations or undertakings (or other action which is contrary to the restrictions contained in Sections 7.2.1 through 7.2.6) will result in such shares of Capital Stock being automatically transferred to a Trust in accordance with Sections 7.2.1(b) and 7.3.

 

(b)          Prior to granting any exception pursuant to Section 7.2.7(a), the Board of Directors may require a ruling from the Internal Revenue Service, or an opinion of counsel, in either case in form and substance satisfactory to the Board of Directors, as it may deem necessary or advisable in order to determine or ensure the Corporation’s status as a REIT. Notwithstanding the receipt of any ruling or opinion, the Board of Directors may impose such conditions or restrictions as it deems appropriate in connection with granting such exception.

 

(c)          Subject to Section 7.2.1(a)(ii), an underwriter which participates in a public offering, forward sale or a private placement of Capital Stock (or securities convertible into or exchangeable for Capital Stock) may Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Capital Stock (or securities convertible into or exchangeable for Capital Stock) in excess of the Common Stock Ownership Limit, the Preferred Stock Ownership Limit, or both such limits, but only to the extent necessary to facilitate such public offering, forward sale or private placement.

 

(d)          The Board of Directors may only reduce the Excepted Holder Limit for an Excepted Holder: (1) with the written consent of such Excepted Holder at any time, or (2) pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements and undertakings entered into with such Excepted Holder in connection with the establishment of the Excepted Holder Limit for that Excepted Holder. No Excepted Holder Limit shall be reduced to a percentage that is less than the Common Stock Ownership Limit or the Preferred Stock Ownership Limit, as appropriate.

 

Section 7.2.8            Increase or Decrease in Common Stock Ownership or Preferred Stock Ownership Limits . Subject to Section 7.2.1(a)(ii) and this Section 7.2.8, the Board of Directors may from time to time increase or decrease the Common Stock Ownership Limit and the Preferred Stock Ownership Limit for one or more Persons and increase or decrease the Common Stock Ownership Limit and the Preferred Stock Ownership Limit for all other Persons. No decreased Common Stock Ownership Limit or Preferred Stock Ownership Limit will be effective for any Person whose percentage of ownership of Capital Stock is in excess of such decreased Common Stock Ownership Limit or Preferred Stock Ownership Limit, as applicable, until such time as such Person’s percentage of ownership of Capital Stock equals or falls below the decreased Common Stock Ownership Limit or Preferred Stock Ownership Limit, as applicable; provided, however, any further acquisition of Capital Stock by any such Person (other than a Person for whom an exemption has been granted pursuant to Section 7.2.7(a) or an Excepted Holder) in excess of the Capital Stock owned by such person on the date the decreased Common Stock Ownership Limit or Preferred Stock Ownership Limit, as applicable, became effective will be in violation of the Common Stock Ownership Limit or Preferred Stock Ownership Limit. No increase to the Common Stock Ownership Limit or Preferred Stock Ownership Limit may be approved if the new Common Stock Ownership Limit and/or Preferred Stock Ownership Limit would allow five or fewer Persons to Beneficially Own, in the aggregate more than 49.9% in value of the outstanding Capital Stock.

 

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Section 7.2.9            Legend . Each certificate for shares of Capital Stock, if certificated, shall bear substantially the following legend:

 

The shares represented by this certificate are subject to restrictions on Beneficial Ownership and Constructive Ownership and Transfer for the purpose, among others, of the Corporation’s maintenance of its status as a Real Estate Investment Trust under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). Subject to certain further restrictions and except as expressly provided in the Corporation’s Charter, (i) no Person may Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of the Corporation’s Common Stock in excess of the Common Stock Ownership Limit unless such Person is an Excepted Holder (in which case the Excepted Holder Limit shall be applicable); (ii) no Person may Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Preferred Stock of the Corporation in excess of the Preferred Stock Ownership Limit, unless such Person is an Excepted Holder (in which case the Excepted Holder Limit shall be applicable); (iii) no Person may Beneficially Own or Constructively Own Capital Stock that would result in the Corporation being “closely held” under Section 856(h) of the Code or otherwise cause the Corporation to fail to qualify as a REIT; (iv) no Person may Transfer shares of Capital Stock if such Transfer would result in the Capital Stock of the Corporation being owned by fewer than 100 Persons; and (v) No Person shall Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Capital Stock to the extent such Beneficial Ownership or Constructive Ownership would cause the Corporation to Constructively Own ten percent (10%) or more of the ownership interests in a tenant (other than a TRS) of the Corporation’s real property within the meaning of Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Code. Any Person who Beneficially Owns or Constructively Owns or attempts or intends to Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Capital Stock which cause or will cause a Person to Beneficially Own or Constructively Own shares of Capital Stock in excess or in violation of the above limitations must immediately notify the Corporation. If any of the restrictions on Transfer or ownership provided in (i), (ii), (iii) or (v) above are violated, the shares of Capital Stock in excess or in violation of the above limitations will be automatically transferred to a Trustee of a Trust for the benefit of one or more Charitable Beneficiaries. In addition, the Corporation may redeem shares upon the terms and conditions specified by the Board of Directors in its sole and absolute discretion if the Board of Directors determines that ownership or a Transfer or other event may violate the restrictions described above. Furthermore, if the ownership restrictions provided in (iv) above would be violated or upon the occurrence of certain events, attempted Transfers in violation of the restrictions described above may be void ab initio . All capitalized terms in this legend have the meanings defined in the Charter of the Corporation, as the same may be amended from time to time, a copy of which, including the restrictions on transfer and ownership, will be furnished to each holder of shares of Capital Stock of the Corporation on request and without charge. Requests for such a copy may be directed to the Secretary of the Corporation at its Principal Office.

 

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Instead of the foregoing legend, the certificate or any notice in lieu of a certificate may state that the Corporation will furnish a full statement about certain restrictions on ownership and transfer of the shares to a stockholder on request and without charge.

 

If applicable, each certificate for shares of Class B Common Stock, if certificated, shall also bear substantially the following legend:

 

The shares represented by this certificate have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the security laws of any state of the United States.

 

Section 7.3            Transfer of Capital Stock in Trust .

 

Section 7.3.1            Ownership in Trust . Upon any purported Transfer or other event described in Section 7.2.1(b) that would result in a transfer of shares of Capital Stock to a Trust, such shares of Capital Stock shall be deemed to have been transferred to the Trustee as trustee of a Trust for the exclusive benefit of one or more Charitable Beneficiaries. Such transfer to the Trustee shall be deemed to be effective as of the close of business on the Business Day prior to the purported Transfer or other event that results in the transfer to the Trust pursuant to Section 7.2.1(b). The Trustee shall be appointed by the Corporation and shall be a Person unaffiliated with the Corporation and any Prohibited Owner. Each Charitable Beneficiary shall be designated by the Corporation as provided in Section 7.3.6.

 

Section 7.3.2            Status of Shares Held by the Trustee . Shares of Capital Stock held by the Trustee shall be issued and outstanding shares of Capital Stock of the Corporation. The Prohibited Owner shall have no rights in the shares held by the Trustee. The Prohibited Owner shall not benefit economically from ownership of any shares held in trust by the Trustee, shall have no rights to dividends or other distributions and shall not possess any rights to vote or other rights attributable to the shares held in the Trust.

 

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Section 7.3.3            Dividend and Voting Rights . The Trustee shall have all voting rights and rights to dividends or other distributions with respect to shares of Capital Stock held in the Trust, which rights shall be exercised for the exclusive benefit of the Charitable Beneficiary. Any dividend or other distribution paid prior to the discovery by the Corporation that the shares of Capital Stock have been transferred to the Trustee shall be paid by the recipient of such dividend or other distribution to the Trustee upon demand and any dividend or other distribution authorized but unpaid shall be paid when due to the Trustee. Any dividend or other distribution so paid to the Trustee shall be held in trust for the Charitable Beneficiary. The Prohibited Owner shall have no voting rights with respect to shares of Capital Stock held in the Trust and, subject to Maryland law, effective as of the date that the shares of Capital Stock have been transferred to the Trust, the Trustee shall have the authority (at the Trustee’s sole and absolute discretion) (i) to rescind as void any vote cast by a Prohibited Owner prior to the discovery by the Corporation that the shares of Capital Stock have been transferred to the Trust and (ii) to recast such vote; provided, however, that if the Corporation has already taken irreversible corporate action, then the Trustee shall not have the authority to rescind and recast such vote. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Article VII, until the Corporation has received notification that shares of Capital Stock have been transferred into a Trust, the Corporation shall be entitled to rely on its stock transfer and other stockholder records for purposes of preparing lists of stockholders entitled to vote at meetings, determining the validity and authority of proxies and otherwise conducting votes and determining the other rights of stockholders.

 

Section 7.3.4            Sale of Shares by Trustee . Within 20 days of receiving notice from the Corporation that shares of Capital Stock have been transferred to the Trust, the Trustee of the Trust shall sell the shares held in the Trust to a person, designated by the Trustee, whose ownership of the shares will not violate the ownership limitations set forth in Section 7.2.1(a). Upon such sale, the interest of the Charitable Beneficiary in the shares sold shall terminate and the Trustee shall distribute the net proceeds of the sale to the Prohibited Owner and to the Charitable Beneficiary as provided in this Section 7.3.4. The Prohibited Owner shall receive the lesser of (1) the price paid by the Prohibited Owner for the shares or, if the Prohibited Owner did not give value for the shares in connection with the event causing the shares to be held in the Trust ( e.g. , in the case of a gift, devise or other such transaction), the Market Price of the shares on the day of the event causing the shares to be held in the Trust and (2) the price per share received by the Trustee (net of any commissions and other expenses of sale) from the sale or other disposition of the shares held in the Trust. The Trustee may reduce the amount payable to the Prohibited Owner by the amount of dividends and distributions which have been paid to the Prohibited Owner and are owed by the Prohibited Owner to the Trustee pursuant to Section 7.3.3 of this Article VII. Any net sales proceeds in excess of the amount payable to the Prohibited Owner shall be immediately paid to the Charitable Beneficiary. If, prior to the discovery by the Corporation that shares of Capital Stock have been transferred to the Trustee, such shares are sold by a Prohibited Owner, then (i) such shares shall be deemed to have been sold on behalf of the Trust and (ii) to the extent that the Prohibited Owner received an amount for such shares that exceeds the amount that such Prohibited Owner was entitled to receive pursuant to this Section 7.3.4, such excess shall be paid to the Trustee upon demand.

 

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Section 7.3.5            Purchase Right in Stock Transferred to the Trustee . Shares of Capital Stock transferred to the Trustee shall be deemed to have been offered for sale to the Corporation, or its designee, at a price per share equal to the lesser of (i) the price per share in the transaction that resulted in such transfer to the Trust (or, in the case of a devise or gift, the Market Price at the time of such devise or gift) and (ii) the Market Price on the date the Corporation, or its designee, accepts such offer. The Corporation may reduce the amount payable to the Prohibited Owner by the amount of dividends and distributions which has been paid to the Prohibited Owner and is owed by the Prohibited Owner to the Trustee pursuant to Section 7.3.3 of this Article VII. The Corporation may pay the amount of such reduction to the Trustee for the benefit of the Charitable Beneficiary. The Corporation shall have the right to accept such offer until the Trustee has sold the shares held in the Trust pursuant to Section 7.3.4. Upon such a sale to the Corporation, the interest of the Charitable Beneficiary in the shares sold shall terminate and the Trustee shall distribute the net proceeds of the sale to the Prohibited Owner.

 

Section 7.3.6            Designation of Charitable Beneficiaries . By written notice to the Trustee, the Corporation shall designate one or more nonprofit organizations to be the Charitable Beneficiary or Charitable Beneficiaries of the interest in the Trust such that (i) the shares of Capital Stock held in the Trust would not violate the restrictions set forth in Section 7.2.1(a) in the hands of such Charitable Beneficiary or Charitable Beneficiaries and (ii) each such organization must be described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Code and contributions to each such organization must be eligible for deduction under each of Sections 170(b)(1)(A), 2055 and 2522 of the Code. Neither the failure of the Corporation to make such designation nor the failure of the Corporation to appoint the Trustee before the automatic transfer provided in Section 7.2.1(b) shall make such transfer ineffective, provided that the Corporation thereafter makes such designation and appointment.

 

Section 7.4            NYSE Transactions . Nothing in this Article VII shall preclude the settlement of any transaction entered into through the facilities of the NYSE or any other national securities exchange or automated inter-dealer quotation system. The fact that the settlement of any transaction occurs shall not negate the effect of any other provision of this Article VII and any transferee in such a transaction shall be subject to all of the provisions and limitations set forth in this Article VII.

 

Section 7.5            Enforcement . The Corporation is authorized specifically to seek equitable relief, including injunctive relief, to enforce the provisions of this Article VII.

 

Section 7.6            Non-Waiver . No delay or failure on the part of the Corporation or the Board of Directors in exercising any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver of any right of the Corporation or the Board of Directors, as the case may be, except to the extent specifically waived in writing.

 

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ARTICLE VIII

 

AMENDMENTS

 

The Corporation reserves the right from time to time to make any amendment to the Charter, now or hereafter authorized by law, including any amendment altering the terms or contract rights, as expressly set forth in the Charter, of any shares of outstanding stock. All rights and powers conferred by the Charter on stockholders, directors and officers are granted subject to this reservation. Except as set forth in this Article VIII and except for those amendments permitted to be made without stockholder approval under Maryland law or by specific provision in the Charter, any amendment to the Charter shall be valid only if declared advisable by the Board of Directors and approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Any amendment to Section 5.8 of the Charter, Article VII or to this sentence of the Charter shall be valid only if declared advisable by the Board of Directors and approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast two-thirds of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Any amendment to increase the aggregate number of shares of Class B Common Stock that the Corporation has authority to issue, to alter or repeal the provisio in the last sentence in 6.1 or to this sentence shall, in each case, be valid only if declared advisable by the Board of Directors and approved by the affirmative vote of not less than a majority of all the shares of stock of the Corporation then outstanding and entitled to be cast on the matter, other than shares of Class B Common Stock.

 

ARTICLE IX

 

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

 

To the maximum extent that Maryland law in effect from time to time permits limitation of the liability of directors and officers of a corporation, no present or former director or officer of the Corporation shall be liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for money damages. Neither the amendment nor repeal of this Article IX, nor the adoption or amendment of any other provision of the Charter or Bylaws inconsistent with this Article IX, shall apply to or affect in any respect the applicability of the preceding sentence with respect to any act or failure to act which occurred prior to such amendment, repeal or adoption.

 

THIRD : The amendment to and restatement of the charter as hereinabove set forth have been duly advised by the Board of Directors and approved by the stockholders of the Corporation as required by law.

 

FOURTH : The current address of the principal office of the Corporation is as set forth in Article IV of the foregoing amendment and restatement of the charter.

 

FIFTH : The name and address of the Corporation’s current resident agent are as set forth in Article IV of the foregoing amendment and restatement of the charter.

 

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SIXTH : The number of directors of the Corporation and the names of those currently in office are as set forth in Article V of the foregoing amendment and restatement of the charter.

 

SEVENTH : The total number of shares of stock which the Corporation had authority to issue immediately prior to this amendment and restatement was 600,000,000, consisting of 600,000,000 shares of Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share. The aggregate par value of all shares of stock having par value was $6,000,000.00.

 

EIGHTH : The total number of shares of stock which the Corporation has authority to issue pursuant to the foregoing amendment and restatement of the charter is 600,027,206, consisting of 500,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share, 27,206 shares of Class B Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share, and 100,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share. The aggregate par value of all authorized shares of stock having par value is $6,000,272.06.

 

NINTH : Immediately upon the effectiveness of these Articles of Amendment and Restatement pursuant to the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “Effective Time”), and without any further action on the part of the Corporation or its stockholders, each share of common stock of the Corporation, par value $0.01 per share, issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be reclassified into one share of validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable Class A Common Stock.

 

TENTH : The undersigned officer acknowledges these Articles of Amendment and Restatement to be the corporate act of the Corporation and as to all matters or facts required to be verified under oath, the undersigned officer acknowledges that, to the best of such officer’s knowledge, information and belief, these matters and facts are true in all material respects and that this statement is made under the penalties for perjury.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused these Articles of Amendment and Restatement to be signed in its name and on its behalf by its Chief Executive Officer and attested to by its Secretary on this 15th day of May, 2019.

 

ATTEST:   POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
     
/s/ Jeremy Garber   By: /s/ Andrew Spodek (SEAL)
Secretary     Chief Executive Officer

 

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Exhibit 3.2

 

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.

 

BYLAWS

 

ARTICLE I

 

OFFICES

 

Section 1.           PRINCIPAL OFFICE . The principal office of Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “Corporation”) in the State of Maryland shall be located at such place as the Board of Directors may designate.

 

Section 2.           ADDITIONAL OFFICES . The Corporation may have additional offices, including a principal executive office, at such places as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or the business of the Corporation may require.

 

ARTICLE II

 

MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS

 

Section 1.           PLACE . All meetings of stockholders shall be held at the principal executive office of the Corporation or at such other place as shall be set in accordance with these Bylaws and stated in the notice of the meeting.

 

Section 2.           ANNUAL MEETING . An annual meeting of stockholders for the election of directors and the transaction of any business within the powers of the Corporation shall be held on the date and at the time and place set by the Board of Directors.

 

Section 3.           SPECIAL MEETINGS .

 

(a)           General . Each of the chairman of the board, chief executive officer, president and Board of Directors may call a special meeting of stockholders. Except as provided in subsection (b)(4) of this Section 3, a special meeting of stockholders shall be held on the date and at the time and place set by the chairman of the board, chief executive officer, president or Board of Directors, whoever has called the meeting. Subject to subsection (b) of this Section 3, a special meeting of stockholders shall also be called by the secretary of the Corporation to act on any matter that may properly be considered at a meeting of stockholders upon the written request of stockholders entitled to cast not less than a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on such matter at such meeting.

 

(b)           Stockholder-Requested Special Meetings . (1) Any stockholder of record seeking to have stockholders request a special meeting shall, by sending written notice to the secretary (the “Record Date Request Notice”) by registered mail, return receipt requested, request the Board of Directors to fix a record date to determine the stockholders entitled to request a special meeting (the “Request Record Date”). The Record Date Request Notice shall set forth the purpose of the meeting and the matters proposed to be acted on at it, shall be signed by one or more stockholders of record as of the date of signature (or their agents duly authorized in a writing accompanying the Record Date Request Notice), shall bear the date of signature of each such stockholder (or such agent) and shall set forth all information relating to each such stockholder and each matter proposed to be acted on at the meeting that would be required to be disclosed in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of directors in an election contest (even if an election contest is not involved), or would otherwise be required in connection with such a solicitation, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A (or any successor provision) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder (the “Exchange Act”). Upon receiving the Record Date Request Notice, the Board of Directors may fix a Request Record Date. The Request Record Date shall not precede and shall not be more than ten days after the close of business on the date on which the resolution fixing the Request Record Date is adopted by the Board of Directors. If the Board of Directors, within ten days after the date on which a valid Record Date Request Notice is received, fails to adopt a resolution fixing the Request Record Date, the Request Record Date shall be the close of business on the tenth day after the first date on which a Record Date Request Notice is received by the secretary.

 

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(2)       In order for any stockholder to request a special meeting to act on any matter that may properly be considered at a meeting of stockholders, one or more written requests for a special meeting (collectively, the “Special Meeting Request”) signed by stockholders of record (or their agents duly authorized in a writing accompanying the request) as of the Request Record Date entitled to cast not less than a majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on such matter at such meeting (the “Special Meeting Percentage”) shall be delivered to the secretary. In addition, the Special Meeting Request shall (a) set forth the purpose of the meeting and the matters proposed to be acted on at it (which shall be limited to those lawful matters set forth in the Record Date Request Notice received by the secretary), (b) bear the date of signature of each such stockholder (or such agent) signing the Special Meeting Request, (c) set forth (i) the name and address, as they appear in the Corporation’s books, of each stockholder signing such request (or on whose behalf the Special Meeting Request is signed), (ii) the class, series and number of all shares of stock of the Corporation which are owned (beneficially or of record) by each such stockholder and (iii) the nominee holder for, and number of, shares of stock of the Corporation owned beneficially but not of record by such stockholder, (d) be sent to the secretary by registered mail, return receipt requested, and (e) be received by the secretary within 60 days after the Request Record Date. Any requesting stockholder (or agent duly authorized in a writing accompanying the revocation of the Special Meeting Request) may revoke his, her or its request for a special meeting at any time by written revocation delivered to the secretary.

 

(3)       The secretary shall inform the requesting stockholders of the reasonably estimated cost of preparing and mailing or delivering the notice of the meeting (including the Corporation’s proxy materials). The secretary shall not be required to call a special meeting upon stockholder request and such meeting shall not be held unless, in addition to the documents required by paragraph (2) of this Section 3(b), the secretary receives payment of such reasonably estimated cost prior to the preparation and mailing or delivery of such notice of the meeting.

 

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(4)       In the case of any special meeting called by the secretary upon the request of stockholders (a “Stockholder-Requested Meeting”), such meeting shall be held at such place, date and time as may be designated by the Board of Directors; provided , however, that the date of any Stockholder-Requested Meeting shall be not more than 90 days after the record date for such meeting (the “Meeting Record Date”); and provided further that if the Board of Directors fails to designate, within ten days after the date that a valid Special Meeting Request is actually received by the secretary (the “Delivery Date”), a date and time for a Stockholder-Requested Meeting, then such meeting shall be held at 2:00 p.m., local time, on the 90 th day after the Meeting Record Date or, if such 90 th day is not a Business Day (as defined below), on the first preceding Business Day; and provided further that in the event that the Board of Directors fails to designate a place for a Stockholder-Requested Meeting within ten days after the Delivery Date, then such meeting shall be held at the principal executive office of the Corporation. In fixing a date for a Stockholder-Requested Meeting, the Board of Directors may consider such factors as it deems relevant, including, without limitation, the nature of the matters to be considered, the facts and circumstances surrounding any request for the meeting and any plan of the Board of Directors to call an annual meeting or a special meeting. In the case of any Stockholder-Requested Meeting, if the Board of Directors fails to fix a Meeting Record Date that is a date within 30 days after the Delivery Date, then the close of business on the 30 th day after the Delivery Date shall be the Meeting Record Date. The Board of Directors may revoke the notice for any Stockholder-Requested Meeting in the event that the requesting stockholders fail to comply with the provisions of paragraph (3) of this Section 3(b).

 

(5)       If written revocations of the Special Meeting Request have been delivered to the secretary and the result is that stockholders of record (or their agents duly authorized in writing), as of the Request Record Date, entitled to cast less than the Special Meeting Percentage have delivered, and not revoked, requests for a special meeting on the matter to the secretary: (i) if the notice of meeting has not already been delivered, the secretary shall refrain from delivering the notice of the meeting and send to all requesting stockholders who have not revoked such requests written notice of any revocation of a request for a special meeting on the matter, or (ii) if the notice of meeting has been delivered and if the secretary first sends to all requesting stockholders who have not revoked requests for a special meeting on the matter written notice of any revocation of a request for the special meeting and written notice of the Corporation’s intention to revoke the notice of the meeting or for the chairman of the meeting to adjourn the meeting without action on the matter, (A) the secretary may revoke the notice of the meeting at any time before ten days before the commencement of the meeting or (B) the chairman of the meeting may call the meeting to order and adjourn the meeting from time to time without acting on the matter. Any request for a special meeting received after a revocation by the secretary of a notice of a meeting shall be considered a request for a new special meeting.

 

(6)       The chairman of the board, chief executive officer, president or Board of Directors may appoint regionally or nationally recognized independent inspectors of elections to act as the agent of the Corporation for the purpose of promptly performing a ministerial review of the validity of any purported Special Meeting Request received by the secretary. For the purpose of permitting the inspectors to perform such review, no such purported Special Meeting Request shall be deemed to have been received by the secretary until the earlier of (i) five Business Days after actual receipt by the secretary of such purported request and (ii) such date as the independent inspectors certify to the Corporation that the valid requests received by the secretary represent, as of the Request Record Date, stockholders of record entitled to cast not less than the Special Meeting Percentage. Nothing contained in this paragraph (6) shall in any way be construed to suggest or imply that the Corporation or any stockholder shall not be entitled to contest the validity of any request, whether during or after such five Business Day period, or to take any other action (including, without limitation, the commencement, prosecution or defense of any litigation with respect thereto, and the seeking of injunctive relief in such litigation).

 

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(7)       For purposes of these Bylaws, “Business Day” shall mean any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday or a day on which banking institutions in the State of New York are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close.

 

Section 4.           NOTICE . Not less than ten nor more than 90 days before each meeting of stockholders, the secretary shall give to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting and to each stockholder not entitled to vote who is entitled to notice of the meeting notice in writing or by electronic transmission stating the time and place of the meeting and, in the case of a special meeting or as otherwise may be required by any statute, the purpose for which the meeting is called, by mail, by presenting it to such stockholder personally, by leaving it at the stockholder’s residence or usual place of business, by electronic transmission or by any other means permitted by Maryland law. If mailed, such notice shall be deemed to be given when deposited in the United States mail addressed to the stockholder at the stockholder’s address as it appears on the records of the Corporation, with postage thereon prepaid. If transmitted electronically, such notice shall be deemed to be given when transmitted to the stockholder by an electronic transmission to any address or number of the stockholder at which the stockholder receives electronic transmissions. The Corporation may give a single notice to all stockholders who share an address, which single notice shall be effective as to any stockholder at such address, unless such stockholder objects to receiving such single notice or revokes a prior consent to receiving such single notice. Failure to give notice of any meeting to one or more stockholders, or any irregularity in such notice, shall not affect the validity of any meeting fixed in accordance with this Article II or the validity of any proceedings at any such meeting.

 

Subject to Section 11(a) of this Article II, any business of the Corporation may be transacted at an annual meeting of stockholders without being specifically designated in the notice, except such business as is required by any statute to be stated in such notice. No business shall be transacted at a special meeting of stockholders except as specifically designated in the notice. The Corporation may postpone or cancel a meeting of stockholders by making a public announcement (as defined in Section 11(c)(3) of this Article II) of such postponement or cancellation prior to the meeting. Notice of the date, time and place to which the meeting is postponed shall be given not less than ten days prior to such date and otherwise in the manner set forth in this section.

 

Section 5.           ORGANIZATION AND CONDUCT . Every meeting of stockholders shall be conducted by an individual appointed by the Board of Directors to be chairman of the meeting or, in the absence of such appointment or appointed individual, by the chairman of the board or, in the case of a vacancy in the office or absence of the chairman of the board, by one of the following officers present at the meeting in the following order: the vice chairman of the board, if there is one, the chief executive officer, the president, the vice presidents in their order of rank and, within each rank, in their order of seniority, the secretary, or, in the absence of such officers, a chairman chosen by the stockholders by the vote of a majority of the votes cast by stockholders present in person or by proxy. The secretary or, in the case of a vacancy in the office or absence of the secretary, an assistant secretary or an individual appointed by the Board of Directors or the chairman of the meeting shall act as secretary. In the event that the secretary presides at a meeting of stockholders, an assistant secretary, or, in the absence of all assistant secretaries, an individual appointed by the Board of Directors or the chairman of the meeting, shall record the minutes of the meeting. The order of business and all other matters of procedure at any meeting of stockholders shall be determined by the chairman of the meeting. The chairman of the meeting may prescribe such rules, regulations and procedures and take such action as, in the discretion of the chairman and without any action by the stockholders, are appropriate for the proper conduct of the meeting, including, without limitation, (a) restricting admission to the time set for the commencement of the meeting; (b) limiting attendance or participation at the meeting to stockholders of record of the Corporation, their duly authorized proxies and such other individuals as the chairman of the meeting may determine; (c) limiting the time allotted to questions or comments; (d) determining when and for how long the polls should be opened and when the polls should be closed and when announcement of the results should be made; (e) maintaining order and security at the meeting; (f) removing any stockholder or any other individual who refuses to comply with meeting procedures, rules or guidelines as set forth by the chairman of the meeting; (g) concluding a meeting or recessing or adjourning the meeting, whether or not a quorum is present, to a later date and time and at a place announced at the meeting; and (h) complying with any state and local laws and regulations concerning safety and security. Unless otherwise determined by the chairman of the meeting, meetings of stockholders shall not be required to be held in accordance with any rules of parliamentary procedure.

 

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Section 6.           QUORUM . At any meeting of stockholders, the presence in person or by proxy of stockholders entitled to cast a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast at such meeting on any matter shall constitute a quorum; but this section shall not affect any requirement under any statute or the charter of the Corporation (the “Charter”) for the vote necessary for the approval of any matter. If such quorum is not established at any meeting of the stockholders, the chairman of the meeting may adjourn the meeting from time to time to a date not more than 120 days after the original record date without notice other than announcement at the meeting.

 

The stockholders present either in person or by proxy, at a meeting which has been duly called and at which a quorum has been established, may continue to transact business until adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal from the meeting of enough stockholders to leave fewer than would be required to establish a quorum.

 

Section 7.           VOTING . A plurality of all the votes cast at a meeting of stockholders duly called and at which a quorum is present shall be sufficient to elect a director. Each share entitles the holder thereof to vote for as many individuals as there are directors to be elected and for whose election the holder is entitled to vote. A majority of the votes cast at a meeting of stockholders duly called and at which a quorum is present shall be sufficient to approve any other matter which may properly come before the meeting, unless more than a majority of the votes cast is required by statute or by the Charter. Unless otherwise provided by statute or by the Charter, each outstanding share of stock, regardless of class, entitles the holder thereof to cast one vote on each matter submitted to a vote at a meeting of stockholders. Voting on any question or in any election may be viva voce unless the chairman of the meeting shall order that voting be by ballot or otherwise.

 

Section 8.           PROXIES . A holder of record of shares of stock of the Corporation may cast votes in person or by proxy executed by the stockholder or by the stockholder’s duly authorized agent in any manner permitted by applicable law. Such proxy or evidence of authorization of such proxy shall be filed with the secretary of the Corporation before or at the meeting. No proxy shall be valid more than eleven months after its date unless otherwise provided in the proxy.

 

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Section 9.           VOTING OF STOCK BY CERTAIN HOLDERS . Stock of the Corporation registered in the name of a corporation, limited liability company, partnership, joint venture, trust or other entity, if entitled to be voted, may be voted by the president or a vice president, managing member, manager, general partner or trustee thereof, as the case may be, or a proxy appointed by any of the foregoing individuals, unless some other person who has been appointed to vote such stock pursuant to a bylaw or a resolution of the governing body of such corporation or other entity or agreement of the partners of a partnership presents a certified copy of such bylaw, resolution or agreement, in which case such person may vote such stock. Any trustee or fiduciary, in such capacity, may vote stock registered in such trustee’s or fiduciary’s name, either in person or by proxy.

 

Shares of stock of the Corporation directly or indirectly owned by it shall not be voted at any meeting and shall not be counted in determining the total number of outstanding shares entitled to be voted at any given time, unless they are held by it in a fiduciary capacity, in which case they may be voted and shall be counted in determining the total number of outstanding shares at any given time.

 

The Board of Directors may adopt by resolution a procedure by which a stockholder may certify in writing to the Corporation that any shares of stock registered in the name of the stockholder are held for the account of a specified person other than the stockholder. The resolution shall set forth the class of stockholders who may make the certification, the purpose for which the certification may be made, the form of certification and the information to be contained in it; if the certification is with respect to a record date, the time after the record date within which the certification must be received by the Corporation; and any other provisions with respect to the procedure which the Board of Directors considers necessary or appropriate. On receipt by the secretary of the Corporation of such certification, the person specified in the certification shall be regarded as, for the purposes set forth in the certification, the holder of record of the specified stock in place of the stockholder who makes the certification.

 

Section 10.          INSPECTORS . The Board of Directors or the chairman of the meeting may appoint, before or at the meeting, one or more inspectors for the meeting and any successor to the inspector. Except as otherwise provided by the chairman of the meeting, the inspectors, if any, shall (i) determine the number of shares of stock represented at the meeting, in person or by proxy, and the validity and effect of proxies, (ii) receive and tabulate all votes, ballots or consents, (iii) report such tabulation to the chairman of the meeting, (iv) hear and determine all challenges and questions arising in connection with the right to vote, and (v) do such acts as are proper to fairly conduct the election or vote. Each such report shall be in writing and signed by the inspector or by a majority of them if there is more than one inspector acting at such meeting. If there is more than one inspector, the report of a majority shall be the report of the inspectors. The report of the inspector or inspectors on the number of shares represented at the meeting and the results of the voting shall be prima facie evidence thereof.

 

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Section 11. ADVANCE NOTICE OF STOCKHOLDER NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR AND OTHER STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS .

 

(a)           Annual Meetings of Stockholders . (1) Nominations of individuals for election to the Board of Directors and the proposal of other business to be considered by the stockholders may be made at an annual meeting of stockholders (i) pursuant to the Corporation’s notice of meeting, (ii) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors or (iii) by any stockholder of the Corporation who was a stockholder of record at the record date set by the Board of Directors for the purpose of determining stockholders entitled to vote at the annual meeting, at the time of giving of notice by the stockholder as provided for in this Section 11(a) and at the time of the annual meeting (and any postponement or adjournment thereof), who is entitled to vote at the meeting in the election of each individual so nominated or on any such other business and who has complied with this Section 11(a).

 

(2)       For any nomination or other business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder pursuant to clause (iii) of paragraph (a)(1) of this Section 11, the stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to the secretary of the Corporation and any such other business must otherwise be a proper matter for action by the stockholders. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice shall set forth all information required under this Section 11 and shall be delivered to the secretary at the principal executive office of the Corporation not earlier than the 150 th day nor later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the 120 th day prior to the first anniversary of the date of the proxy statement (as defined in Section 11(c)(3) of this Article II) for the preceding year’s annual meeting; provided, however, that in connection with the Corporation’s first annual meeting or in the event that the date of the annual meeting is advanced or delayed by more than 30 days from the first anniversary of the date of the preceding year’s annual meeting, in order for notice by the stockholder to be timely, such notice must be so delivered not earlier than the 150 th day prior to the date of such annual meeting and not later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the later of the 120 th day prior to the date of such annual meeting, as originally convened, or the tenth day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made. The public announcement of a postponement or adjournment of an annual meeting shall not commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholder’s notice as described above.

 

(3)       Such stockholder’s notice shall set forth:

 

(i)          as to each individual whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election or reelection as a director (each, a “Proposed Nominee”), all information relating to the Proposed Nominee that would be required to be disclosed in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of the Proposed Nominee as a director in an election contest (even if an election contest is not involved), or would otherwise be required in connection with such solicitation, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A (or any successor provision) under the Exchange Act;

 

(ii)         as to any other business that the stockholder proposes to bring before the meeting, a description of such business, the stockholder’s reasons for proposing such business at the meeting and any material interest in such business of such stockholder or any Stockholder Associated Person (as defined below), individually or in the aggregate, including any anticipated benefit to the stockholder or the Stockholder Associated Person therefrom;

 

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(iii)        as to the stockholder giving the notice, any Proposed Nominee and any Stockholder Associated Person,

 

(A)         the class, series and number of all shares of stock or other securities of the Corporation or any affiliate thereof (collectively, the “Company Securities”), if any, which are owned (beneficially or of record) by such stockholder, Proposed Nominee or Stockholder Associated Person, the date on which each such Company Security was acquired and the investment intent of such acquisition, and any short interest (including any opportunity to profit or share in any benefit from any decrease in the price of such stock or other security) in any Company Securities of any such person,

 

(B)         the nominee holder for, and number of, any Company Securities owned beneficially but not of record by such stockholder, Proposed Nominee or Stockholder Associated Person,

 

(C)         whether and the extent to which such stockholder, Proposed Nominee or Stockholder Associated Person, directly or indirectly (through brokers, nominees or otherwise), is subject to or during the last six months has engaged in any hedging, derivative or other transaction or series of transactions or entered into any other agreement, arrangement or understanding (including any short interest, any borrowing or lending of securities or any proxy or voting agreement), the effect or intent of which is to (I) manage risk or benefit of changes in the price of Company Securities for such stockholder, Proposed Nominee or Stockholder Associated Person or ( II ) increase or decrease the voting power of such stockholder, Proposed Nominee or Stockholder Associated Person in the Corporation or any affiliate thereof disproportionately to such person’s economic interest in the Company Securities and

 

(D)         any substantial interest, direct or indirect (including, without limitation, any existing or prospective commercial, business or contractual relationship with the Corporation), by security holdings or otherwise, of such stockholder, Proposed Nominee or Stockholder Associated Person, in the Corporation or any affiliate thereof, other than an interest arising from the ownership of Company Securities where such stockholder, Proposed Nominee or Stockholder Associated Person receives no extra or special benefit not shared on a pro rata basis by all other holders of the same class or series;

 

(iv)        as to the stockholder giving the notice, any Stockholder Associated Person with an interest or ownership referred to in clauses (ii) or (iii) of this paragraph (3) of this Section 11(a) and any Proposed Nominee,

 

(A)         the name and address of such stockholder, as they appear on the Corporation’s stock ledger, and the current name and business address, if different, of each such Stockholder Associated Person and any Proposed Nominee and

 

(B)         the investment strategy or objective, if any, of such stockholder and each such Stockholder Associated Person who is not an individual and a copy of the prospectus, offering memorandum or similar document, if any, provided to investors or potential investors in such stockholder and each such Stockholder Associated Person;

 

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(v)         the name and address of any person who contacted or was contacted by the stockholder giving the notice or any Stockholder Associated Person about the Proposed Nominee or other business proposal; and

 

(vi)        to the extent known by the stockholder giving the notice, the name and address of any other stockholder supporting the nominee for election or reelection as a director or the proposal of other business.

 

(4)       Such stockholder’s notice shall, with respect to any Proposed Nominee, be accompanied by a written undertaking executed by the Proposed Nominee (i) that such Proposed Nominee (a) is not, and will not become, a party to any agreement, arrangement or understanding with any person or entity other than the Corporation in connection with service or action as a director that has not been disclosed to the Corporation and (b) will serve as a director of the Corporation if elected; and (ii) attaching a completed Proposed Nominee questionnaire (which questionnaire shall be provided by the Corporation, upon request by the stockholder providing the notice, and shall include all information relating to the Proposed Nominee that would be required to be disclosed in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of the Proposed Nominee as a director in an election contest (even if an election contest is not involved), or would otherwise be required in connection with such solicitation, in each case pursuant to Regulation 14A (or any successor provision) under the Exchange Act, or would be required pursuant to the rules of any national securities exchange on which any securities of the Corporation are listed or over-the-counter market on which any securities of the Corporation are traded).

 

(5)       Notwithstanding anything in this subsection (a) of this Section 11 to the contrary, in the event that the number of directors to be elected to the Board of Directors is increased, and there is no public announcement of such action at least 130 days prior to the first anniversary of the date of the proxy statement (as defined in Section 11(c)(3) of this Article II) for the preceding year’s annual meeting, a stockholder’s notice required by this Section 11(a) shall also be considered timely, but only with respect to nominees for any new positions created by such increase, if it shall be delivered to the secretary at the principal executive office of the Corporation not later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the tenth day following the day on which such public announcement is first made by the Corporation.

 

(6)       For purposes of this Section 11, “Stockholder Associated Person” of any stockholder shall mean (i) any person acting in concert with such stockholder, (ii) any beneficial owner of shares of stock of the Corporation owned of record or beneficially by such stockholder (other than a stockholder that is a depositary) and (iii) any person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, or is controlled by, or is under common control with, such stockholder or such Stockholder Associated Person.

 

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(b)           Special Meetings of Stockholders . Only such business shall be conducted at a special meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting pursuant to the Corporation’s notice of meeting. Nominations of individuals for election to the Board of Directors may be made at a special meeting of stockholders at which directors are to be elected only (i) by or at the direction of the Board of Directors or (ii) provided that the special meeting has been called in accordance with Section 3(a) of this Article II for the purpose of electing directors, by any stockholder of the Corporation who is a stockholder of record at the record date set by the Board of Directors for the purpose of determining stockholders entitled to vote at the special meeting, at the time of giving of notice provided for in this Section 11 and at the time of the special meeting (and any postponement or adjournment thereof), who is entitled to vote at the meeting in the election of each individual so nominated and who has complied with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 11. In the event the Corporation calls a special meeting of stockholders for the purpose of electing one or more individuals to the Board of Directors, any stockholder may nominate an individual or individuals (as the case may be) for election as a director as specified in the Corporation’s notice of meeting, if the stockholder’s notice, containing the information required by paragraphs (a)(3) and (4) of this Section 11, is delivered to the secretary at the principal executive office of the Corporation not earlier than the 120 th day prior to such special meeting and not later than 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the later of the 90 th day prior to such special meeting or the tenth day following the day on which public announcement is first made of the date of the special meeting and of the nominees proposed by the Board of Directors to be elected at such meeting. The public announcement of a postponement or adjournment of a special meeting shall not commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholder’s notice as described above.

 

(c)           General . (1) If information submitted pursuant to this Section 11 by any stockholder proposing a nominee for election as a director or any proposal for other business at a meeting of stockholders shall be inaccurate in any material respect, such information may be deemed not to have been provided in accordance with this Section 11. Any such stockholder shall notify the Corporation of any inaccuracy or change (within two Business Days of becoming aware of such inaccuracy or change) in any such information. Upon written request by the secretary or the Board of Directors, any such stockholder shall provide, within five Business Days of delivery of such request (or such other period as may be specified in such request), (A) written verification, satisfactory, in the discretion of the Board of Directors or any authorized officer of the Corporation, to demonstrate the accuracy of any information submitted by the stockholder pursuant to this Section 11, and (B) a written update of any information (including, if requested by the Corporation, written confirmation by such stockholder that it continues to intend to bring such nomination or other business proposal before the meeting) submitted by the stockholder pursuant to this Section 11 as of an earlier date. If a stockholder fails to provide such written verification or written update within such period, the information as to which written verification or a written update was requested may be deemed not to have been provided in accordance with this Section 11.

 

(2)       Only such individuals who are nominated in accordance with this Section 11 shall be eligible for election by stockholders as directors, and only such business shall be conducted at a meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting in accordance with this Section 11. The chairman of the meeting shall have the power to determine whether a nomination or any other business proposed to be brought before the meeting was made or proposed, as the case may be, in accordance with this Section 11.

 

(3)       For purposes of this Section 11, “the date of the proxy statement” shall have the same meaning as “the date of the company’s proxy statement released to shareholders” as used in Rule 14a-8(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act, as interpreted by the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. “Public announcement” shall mean disclosure (A) in a press release reported by the Dow Jones News Service, Associated Press, Business Wire, PR Newswire or other widely circulated news or wire service or (B) in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Exchange Act.

 

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(4)       Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 11, a stockholder shall also comply with all applicable requirements of state law and of the Exchange Act with respect to the matters set forth in this Section 11. Nothing in this Section 11 shall be deemed to affect any right of a stockholder to request inclusion of a proposal in, or the right of the Corporation to omit a proposal from, any proxy statement filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 14a-8 (or any successor provision) under the Exchange Act. Nothing in this Section 11 shall require disclosure of revocable proxies received by the stockholder or Stockholder Associated Person pursuant to a solicitation of proxies after the filing of an effective Schedule 14A by such stockholder or Stockholder Associated Person under Section 14(a) of the Exchange Act.

 

(5)       Notwithstanding anything in these Bylaws to the contrary, except as otherwise determined by the chairman of the meeting, if the stockholder giving notice as provided for in this Section 11 does not appear in person or by proxy at such annual or special meeting to present each nominee for election as a director or the proposed business, as applicable, such matter shall not be considered at the meeting.

 

Section 12.         TELEPHONE MEETINGS . The Board of Directors or chairman of the meeting may permit one or more stockholders to participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or other communications equipment if all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other at the same time. Participation in a meeting by these means constitutes presence in person at the meeting.

 

Section 13.          CONTROL SHARE ACQUISITION ACT . Notwithstanding any other provision of the Charter or these Bylaws, Title 3, Subtitle 7 of the Maryland General Corporation Law, or any successor statute (the “MGCL”), shall not apply to any acquisition by any person of shares of stock of the Corporation. This section may be repealed, in whole or in part, at any time, whether before or after an acquisition of control shares and, upon such repeal, may, to the extent provided by any successor bylaw, apply to any prior or subsequent control share acquisition.

 

Section 14.          STOCKHOLDERS’ CONSENT IN LIEU OF MEETING . Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of stockholders may be taken without a meeting (a) if a unanimous consent setting forth the action is given in writing or by electronic transmission by each stockholder entitled to vote on the matter and filed with the minutes of proceedings of the stockholders or (b) if the action is advised, and submitted to the stockholders for approval, by the Board of Directors and a consent in writing or by electronic transmission of stockholders entitled to cast not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take the action at a meeting of stockholders is delivered to the Corporation in accordance with the MGCL. The Corporation shall give notice of any action taken by less than unanimous consent to each stockholder not later than ten days after the effective time of such action.

 

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ARTICLE III

 

DIRECTORS

 

Section 1.           GENERAL POWERS . The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed under the direction of the Board of Directors.

 

Section 2.           NUMBER, TENURE, QUALIFICATIONS AND RESIGNATION . A majority of the entire Board of Directors may establish, increase or decrease the number of directors, provided that the number thereof shall never be less than the minimum number required by the MGCL nor more than 15, and further provided that the tenure of office of a director shall not be affected by any decrease in the number of directors. Each director that is elected by the stockholders of the Corporation shall serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until his or her successor is duly elected and qualifies. Any director of the Corporation may resign at any time by delivering his or her resignation to the Board of Directors, the chairman of the board or the secretary. Any resignation shall take effect immediately upon its receipt or at such later time specified in the resignation. The acceptance of a resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective unless otherwise stated in the resignation.

 

Section 3.           ANNUAL AND REGULAR MEETINGS . An annual meeting of the Board of Directors shall be held immediately after and at the same place as the annual meeting of stockholders, no notice other than this Bylaw being necessary. In the event such meeting is not so held, the meeting may be held at such time and place as shall be specified in a notice given as hereinafter provided for special meetings of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may provide, by resolution, the time and place of regular meetings of the Board of Directors without other notice than such resolution.

 

Section 4.           SPECIAL MEETINGS . Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by or at the request of the chairman of the board, the chief executive officer, the president or a majority of the directors then in office. The person or persons authorized to call special meetings of the Board of Directors may fix the time and place of any special meeting of the Board of Directors called by them. The Board of Directors may provide, by resolution, the time and place of special meetings of the Board of Directors without other notice than such resolution.

 

Section 5.           NOTICE . Notice of any special meeting of the Board of Directors shall be delivered personally or by telephone, electronic mail, facsimile transmission, courier or United States mail to each director at his or her business or residence address. Notice by personal delivery, telephone, electronic mail or facsimile transmission shall be given at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Notice by United States mail shall be given at least three days prior to the meeting. Notice by courier shall be given at least two days prior to the meeting. Telephone notice shall be deemed to be given when the director or his or her agent is personally given such notice in a telephone call to which the director or his or her agent is a party. Electronic mail notice shall be deemed to be given upon transmission of the message to the electronic mail address given to the Corporation by the director. Facsimile transmission notice shall be deemed to be given upon completion of the transmission of the message to the number given to the Corporation by the director and receipt of a completed answer-back indicating receipt. Notice by United States mail shall be deemed to be given when deposited in the United States mail properly addressed, with postage thereon prepaid. Notice by courier shall be deemed to be given when deposited with or delivered to a courier properly addressed. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any annual, regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors need be stated in the notice, unless specifically required by statute or these Bylaws.

 

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Section 6.           QUORUM . A majority of the directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Board of Directors, provided that, if less than a majority of such directors is present at such meeting, a majority of the directors present may adjourn the meeting from time to time without further notice, and provided further that if, pursuant to applicable law, the Charter or these Bylaws, the vote of a majority or other percentage of a specified group of directors is required for action, a quorum must also include a majority or such other percentage of such group.

 

The directors present at a meeting which has been duly called and at which a quorum has been established may continue to transact business until adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal from the meeting of enough directors to leave fewer than required to establish a quorum.

 

Section 7.           VOTING . The action of a majority of the directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the action of the Board of Directors, unless the concurrence of a greater proportion is required for such action by applicable law, the Charter or these Bylaws. If enough directors have withdrawn from a meeting to leave fewer than required to establish a quorum, but the meeting is not adjourned, the action of the majority of that number of directors necessary to constitute a quorum at such meeting shall be the action of the Board of Directors, unless the concurrence of a greater proportion is required for such action by applicable law, the Charter or these Bylaws.

 

Section 8.           ORGANIZATION . At each meeting of the Board of Directors, the chairman of the board or, in the absence of the chairman, the vice chairman of the board, if any, shall act as chairman of the meeting. In the absence of both the chairman and vice chairman of the board, the chief executive officer or, in the absence of the chief executive officer, the president or, in the absence of the president, a director chosen by a majority of the directors present, shall act as chairman of the meeting. The secretary or, in his or her absence, an assistant secretary of the Corporation, or, in the absence of the secretary and all assistant secretaries, an individual appointed by the chairman of the meeting, shall act as secretary of the meeting.

 

Section 9.           TELEPHONE MEETINGS . Directors may participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or other communications equipment if all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other at the same time. Participation in a meeting by these means shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.

 

Section 10.          CONSENT BY DIRECTORS WITHOUT A MEETING . Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors may be taken without a meeting, if a consent in writing or by electronic transmission to such action is given by each director and is filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board of Directors.

 

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Section 11.          VACANCIES . If for any reason any or all the directors cease to be directors, such event shall not terminate the Corporation or affect these Bylaws or the powers of the remaining directors hereunder. Except as may be provided by the Board of Directors in setting the terms of any class or series of preferred stock, any vacancy on the Board of Directors may be filled only by a majority of the remaining directors, even if the remaining directors do not constitute a quorum. Any director elected to fill a vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the full term of the class in which the vacancy occurred and until a successor is elected and qualifies.

 

Section 12.          COMPENSATION . Directors shall not receive any stated salary for their services as directors but, by resolution of the Board of Directors, may receive compensation per year and/or per meeting and/or per visit to real property or other facilities owned or leased by the Corporation and for any service or activity they performed or engaged in as directors. Directors may be reimbursed for expenses of attendance, if any, at each annual, regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof and for their expenses, if any, in connection with each property visit and any other service or activity they perform or engage in as directors; but nothing herein contained shall be construed to preclude any directors from serving the Corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor.

 

Section 13.          RELIANCE . Each director and officer of the Corporation shall, in the performance of his or her duties with respect to the Corporation, be entitled to rely on any information, opinion, report or statement, including any financial statement or other financial data, prepared or presented by an officer or employee of the Corporation whom the director or officer reasonably believes to be reliable and competent in the matters presented, by a lawyer, certified public accountant or other person, as to a matter which the director or officer reasonably believes to be within the person’s professional or expert competence, or, with respect to a director, by a committee of the Board of Directors on which the director does not serve, as to a matter within its designated authority, if the director reasonably believes the committee to merit confidence.

 

Section 14.          RATIFICATION . The Board of Directors or the stockholders may ratify any act, omission, failure to act or determination made not to act (an “Act”) by the Corporation or its officers to the extent that the Board of Directors or the stockholders could have originally authorized the Act and, if so ratified, such Act shall have the same force and effect as if originally duly authorized, and such ratification shall be binding upon the Corporation and its stockholders. Any Act questioned in any proceeding on the ground of lack of authority, defective or irregular execution, adverse interest of a director, officer or stockholder, non-disclosure, miscomputation, the application of improper principles or practices of accounting or otherwise, may be ratified, before or after judgment, by the Board of Directors or by the stockholders, and such ratification shall constitute a bar to any claim or execution of any judgment in respect of such questioned Act.

 

Section 15.          EMERGENCY PROVISIONS . Notwithstanding any other provision in the Charter or these Bylaws, this Section 15 shall apply during the existence of any catastrophe, or other similar emergency condition, as a result of which a quorum of the Board of Directors under Article III of these Bylaws cannot readily be obtained (an “Emergency”). During any Emergency, unless otherwise provided by the Board of Directors, (i) a meeting of the Board of Directors or a committee thereof may be called by any director or officer by any means feasible under the circumstances; (ii) notice of any meeting of the Board of Directors during such an Emergency may be given less than 24 hours prior to the meeting to as many directors and by such means as may be feasible at the time, including publication, television or radio; and (iii) the number of directors necessary to constitute a quorum shall be one-third of the entire Board of Directors.

 

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ARTICLE IV

 

COMMITTEES

 

Section 1.           NUMBER, TENURE AND QUALIFICATIONS . The Board of Directors may appoint from among its members an Audit Committee, a Compensation Committee, a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and other committees, composed of one or more directors, to serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors. In the absence of any member of any such committee, the members thereof present at any meeting, whether or not they constitute a quorum, may appoint another director to act in the place of such absent member.

 

Section 2.           POWERS . The Board of Directors may delegate to any committee appointed under Section 1 of this Article any of the powers of the Board of Directors, except as prohibited by law. Except as may be otherwise provided by the Board of Directors, any committee may delegate some or all of its power and authority to one or more subcommittees, composed of one or more directors, as the committee deems appropriate in its sole discretion.

 

Section 3.           MEETINGS . Notice of committee meetings shall be given in the same manner as notice for special meetings of the Board of Directors. A majority of the members of the committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the committee. The act of a majority of the committee members present at a meeting shall be the act of such committee. The Board of Directors may designate a chairman of any committee, and such chairman or, in the absence of a chairman, any two members of any committee (if there are at least two members of the committee) may fix the time and place of its meeting unless the Board shall otherwise provide.

 

Section 4.           TELEPHONE MEETINGS . Members of a committee of the Board of Directors may participate in a meeting by means of a conference telephone or other communications equipment if all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other at the same time. Participation in a meeting by these means shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.

 

Section 5.           CONSENT BY COMMITTEES WITHOUT A MEETING . Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of a committee of the Board of Directors may be taken without a meeting, if a consent in writing or by electronic transmission to such action is given by each member of the committee and is filed with the minutes of proceedings of such committee.

 

Section 6.           VACANCIES . Subject to the provisions hereof, the Board of Directors shall have the power at any time to change the membership of any committee, to appoint the chair of any committee, to fill any vacancy, to designate an alternate member to replace any absent or disqualified member or to dissolve any such committee.

 

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ARTICLE V

 

OFFICERS

 

Section 1.           GENERAL PROVISIONS . The officers of the Corporation shall include a president, a secretary and a treasurer and may include a chairman of the board, a vice chairman of the board, a chief executive officer, one or more vice presidents, a chief operating officer, a chief financial officer, one or more assistant secretaries and one or more assistant treasurers. In addition, the Board of Directors may from time to time elect such other officers with such powers and duties as it shall deem necessary or appropriate. The officers of the Corporation shall be elected annually by the Board of Directors, except that the chief executive officer or president may from time to time appoint one or more vice presidents, assistant secretaries and assistant treasurers or other officers. Each officer shall serve until his or her successor is elected and qualifies or until his or her death, or his or her resignation or removal in the manner hereinafter provided. Any two or more offices except president and vice president may be held by the same person. Election of an officer or agent shall not of itself create contract rights between the Corporation and such officer or agent.

 

Section 2.           REMOVAL AND RESIGNATION . Any officer or agent of the Corporation may be removed, with or without cause, by the Board of Directors if in its judgment the best interests of the Corporation would be served thereby, but such removal shall be without prejudice to the contract rights, if any, of the person so removed. Any officer of the Corporation may resign at any time by delivering his or her resignation to the Board of Directors, the chairman of the board, the chief executive officer, the president or the secretary. Any resignation shall take effect immediately upon its receipt or at such later time specified in the resignation. The acceptance of a resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective unless otherwise stated in the resignation. Such resignation shall be without prejudice to the contract rights, if any, of the Corporation.

 

Section 3.           VACANCIES . A vacancy in any office may be filled by the Board of Directors for the balance of the term.

 

Section 4.           CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD . The Board of Directors may designate from among its members a chairman of the board, who shall not, solely by reason of these Bylaws, be an officer of the Corporation. The Board of Directors may designate the chairman of the board as an executive or non-executive chairman. The chairman of the board shall preside over the meetings of the Board of Directors. The chairman of the board shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him or her by these Bylaws or the Board of Directors.

 

Section 5.           CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER . The Board of Directors may designate a chief executive officer. In the absence of such designation, the president shall be the chief executive officer of the Corporation. The chief executive officer shall have general responsibility for implementation of the policies of the Corporation, as determined by the Board of Directors, and for the management of the business and affairs of the Corporation. He or she may execute any deed, mortgage, bond, contract or other instrument, except in cases where the execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Board of Directors or by these Bylaws to some other officer or agent of the Corporation or shall be required by law to be otherwise executed; and in general shall perform all duties incident to the office of chief executive officer and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to time.

 

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Section 6.           CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER . The Board of Directors may designate a chief operating officer. The chief operating officer shall have the responsibilities and duties as determined by the Board of Directors or the chief executive officer.

 

Section 7.           CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER . The Board of Directors may designate a chief financial officer. The chief financial officer shall have the responsibilities and duties as determined by the Board of Directors or the chief executive officer.

 

Section 8.           PRESIDENT . In the absence of a chief executive officer, the president shall in general supervise and control all of the business and affairs of the Corporation. In the absence of a designation of a chief operating officer by the Board of Directors, the president shall be the chief operating officer. He or she may execute any deed, mortgage, bond, contract or other instrument, except in cases where the execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Board of Directors or by these Bylaws to some other officer or agent of the Corporation or shall be required by law to be otherwise executed; and in general shall perform all duties incident to the office of president and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to time.

 

Section 9.           VICE PRESIDENTS . In the absence of the president or in the event of a vacancy in such office, the vice president (or in the event there be more than one vice president, the vice presidents in the order designated at the time of their election or, in the absence of any designation, then in the order of their election) shall perform the duties of the president and when so acting shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the president; and shall perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to such vice president by the chief executive officer, the president or the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may designate one or more vice presidents as executive vice president, senior vice president, or vice president for particular areas of responsibility.

 

Section 10.          SECRETARY . The secretary shall (a) keep the minutes of the proceedings of the stockholders, the Board of Directors and committees of the Board of Directors in one or more books provided for that purpose; (b) see that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these Bylaws or as required by law; (c) be custodian of the corporate records and of the seal of the Corporation; (d) keep a register of the address of each stockholder which shall be furnished to the secretary by such stockholder; (e) have general charge of the stock transfer books of the Corporation; and (f) in general perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him or her by the chief executive officer, the president or the Board of Directors.

 

Section 11.          TREASURER . The treasurer shall have the custody of the funds and securities of the Corporation, shall keep full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Corporation, shall deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Corporation in such depositories as may be designated by the Board of Directors and in general perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him or her by the chief executive officer, the president or the Board of Directors. In the absence of a designation of a chief financial officer by the Board of Directors, the treasurer shall be the chief financial officer of the Corporation.

 

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The treasurer shall disburse the funds of the Corporation as may be ordered by the Board of Directors, taking proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall render to the president and Board of Directors, at the regular meetings of the Board of Directors or whenever it may so require, an account of all his or her transactions as treasurer and of the financial condition of the Corporation.

 

Section 12.          ASSISTANT SECRETARIES AND ASSISTANT TREASURERS . The assistant secretaries and assistant treasurers, in general, shall perform such duties as shall be assigned to them by the secretary or treasurer, respectively, or by the chief executive officer, the president or the Board of Directors.

 

Section 13.          COMPENSATION . The compensation of the officers shall be fixed from time to time by or under the authority of the Board of Directors and no officer shall be prevented from receiving such compensation by reason of the fact that he or she is also a director.

 

ARTICLE VI

 

CONTRACTS, CHECKS AND DEPOSITS

 

Section 1.           CONTRACTS . The Board of Directors may authorize any officer or agent to enter into any contract or to execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Corporation and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Any agreement, deed, mortgage, lease or other document shall be valid and binding upon the Corporation when duly authorized or ratified by action of the Board of Directors and executed by an authorized person.

 

Section 2.           CHECKS AND DRAFTS . All checks, drafts or other orders for the payment of money, notes or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of the Corporation shall be signed by such officer or agent of the Corporation in such manner as shall from time to time be determined by the Board of Directors.

 

Section 3.           DEPOSITS . All funds of the Corporation not otherwise employed shall be deposited or invested from time to time to the credit of the Corporation as the Board of Directors, the chief executive officer, the president, the chief financial officer, or any other officer designated by the Board of Directors may determine.

 

ARTICLE VII

 

STOCK

 

Section 1.           CERTIFICATES . Except as may be otherwise provided by the Board of Directors or any officer of the Corporation, stockholders of the Corporation are not entitled to certificates representing the shares of stock held by them. In the event that the Corporation issues shares of stock represented by certificates, such certificates shall be in such form as prescribed by the Board of Directors or a duly authorized officer, shall contain the statements and information required by the MGCL and shall be signed by the officers of the Corporation in any manner permitted by the MGCL. In the event that the Corporation issues shares of stock without certificates, to the extent then required by the MGCL the Corporation shall provide to the record holders of such shares a written statement of the information required by the MGCL to be included on stock certificates. There shall be no difference in the rights and obligations of stockholders based on whether or not their shares are represented by certificates.

 

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Section 2.           TRANSFERS . All transfers of shares of stock shall be made on the books of the Corporation in such manner as the Board of Directors or any officer of the Corporation may prescribe and, if such shares are certificated, upon surrender of certificates duly endorsed. The issuance of a new certificate upon the transfer of certificated shares is subject to the determination of the Board of Directors or an officer of the Corporation that such shares shall no longer be represented by certificates. Upon the transfer of any uncertificated shares, the Corporation shall provide to the record holders of such shares, to the extent then required by the MGCL, a written statement of the information required by the MGCL to be included on stock certificates.

 

The Corporation shall be entitled to treat the holder of record of any share of stock as the holder in fact thereof and, accordingly, shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or on the part of any other person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise expressly provided by the laws of the State of Maryland.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, transfers of shares of any class or series of stock will be subject in all respects to the Charter and all of the terms and conditions contained therein.

 

Section 3.           REPLACEMENT CERTIFICATE . Any officer of the Corporation may direct a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the Corporation alleged to have been lost, destroyed, stolen or mutilated, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person claiming the certificate to be lost, destroyed, stolen or mutilated; provided, however, if such shares have ceased to be certificated, no new certificate shall be issued unless requested in writing by such stockholder and the Board of Directors or an officer of the Corporation has determined that such certificates may be issued. Unless otherwise determined by an officer of the Corporation, the owner of such lost, destroyed, stolen or mutilated certificate or certificates, or his or her legal representative, shall be required, as a condition precedent to the issuance of a new certificate or certificates, to give the Corporation a bond in such sums as it may direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against the Corporation.

 

Section 4.           FIXING OF RECORD DATE . The Board of Directors may set, in advance, a record date for the purpose of determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or determining stockholders entitled to receive payment of any dividend or the allotment of any other rights, or in order to make a determination of stockholders for any other proper purpose. Such record date, in any case, shall not be prior to the close of business on the day the record date is fixed and shall be not more than 90 days and, in the case of a meeting of stockholders, not less than ten days, before the date on which the meeting or particular action requiring such determination of stockholders of record is to be held or taken.

 

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When a record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders has been set as provided in this section, such record date shall continue to apply to the meeting if postponed or adjourned, except if the meeting is postponed or adjourned to a date more than 120 days after the record date originally fixed for the meeting, in which case a new record date for such meeting shall be determined as set forth herein.

 

Section 5.           STOCK LEDGER . The Corporation shall maintain at its principal office or at the office of its counsel, accountants or transfer agent, an original or duplicate stock ledger containing the name and address of each stockholder and the number of shares of each class held by such stockholder.

 

Section 6.           FRACTIONAL STOCK; ISSUANCE OF UNITS . The Board of Directors may authorize the Corporation to issue fractional shares of stock or authorize the issuance of scrip, all on such terms and under such conditions as it may determine. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Charter or these Bylaws, the Board of Directors may authorize the issuance of units consisting of different securities of the Corporation.

 

ARTICLE VIII

 

ACCOUNTING YEAR

 

The Board of Directors shall have the power, from time to time, to fix the fiscal year of the Corporation by a duly adopted resolution.

 

ARTICLE IX

 

DISTRIBUTIONS

 

Section 1.           AUTHORIZATION . Dividends and other distributions upon the stock of the Corporation may be authorized by the Board of Directors, subject to the provisions of law and the Charter. Dividends and other distributions may be paid in cash, property or stock of the Corporation, subject to the provisions of law and the Charter.

 

Section 2.           CONTINGENCIES . Before payment of any dividend or other distribution, there may be set aside out of any assets of the Corporation available for dividends or other distributions such sum or sums as the Board of Directors may from time to time, in its sole discretion, think proper as a reserve fund for contingencies, for equalizing dividends, for repairing or maintaining any property of the Corporation or for such other purpose as the Board of Directors shall determine, and the Board of Directors may modify or abolish any such reserve.

 

ARTICLE X

 

SEAL

 

Section 1.           SEAL . The Board of Directors may authorize the adoption of a seal by the Corporation. The seal shall contain the name of the Corporation and the year of its incorporation and the words “Incorporated Maryland”. The Board of Directors may authorize one or more duplicate seals and provide for the custody thereof.

 

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Section 2.           AFFIXING SEAL . Whenever the Corporation is permitted or required to affix its seal to a document, it shall be sufficient to meet the requirements of any law, rule or regulation relating to a seal to place the word “(SEAL)” adjacent to the signature of the person authorized to execute the document on behalf of the Corporation.

 

ARTICLE XI

 

WAIVER OF NOTICE

 

Whenever any notice of a meeting is required to be given pursuant to the Charter or these Bylaws or pursuant to applicable law, a waiver thereof in writing or by electronic transmission, given by the person or persons entitled to such notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to the giving of such notice. Neither the business to be transacted at nor the purpose of any meeting need be set forth in the waiver of notice of such meeting, unless specifically required by statute. The attendance of any person at any meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where such person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business on the ground that the meeting has not been lawfully called or convened.

 

ARTICLE XII

 

EXCLUSIVE FORUM FOR CERTAIN LITIGATION

 

Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland, or, if that Court does not have jurisdiction, the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, Northern Division, shall be the sole and exclusive forum for (a) any Internal Corporate Claim, as such term is defined in Section 1-101(p) of the MGCL, or any successor provision thereof, (b) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, other than actions arising under federal securities laws, (c) any action asserting a claim of breach of any duty owed by any director or officer or other employee of the Corporation to the Corporation or to the stockholders of the Corporation, (d) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation or any director or officer or other employee of the Corporation arising pursuant to any provision of the MGCL or the Charter or these Bylaws, or (e) any other action asserting a claim against the Corporation or any director or officer or other employee of the Corporation that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine. None of the foregoing actions, claims or proceedings may be brought in any court sitting outside the State of Maryland unless the Corporation consents in writing to such court.

 

ARTICLE XIII

 

AMENDMENT OF BYLAWS

 

The Board of Directors shall have the exclusive power to adopt, alter or repeal any provision of these Bylaws and to make new Bylaws .

 

21

 

 

Exhibit 10.1

 

FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT OF LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

 

OF

 

POSTAL REALTY LP
(a Delaware limited partnership)

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

ARTICLE I DEFINED TERMS 1
ARTICLE II FORMATION OF THE PARTNERSHIP 11
2.01 Formation of the Partnership 11
2.02 Name 11
2.03 Registered Office and Agent; Principal Office 11
2.04 Term and Dissolution. 11
2.05 Filing of Certificate and Perfection of Limited Partnership 12
2.06 Certificates Describing Partnership Units 12
ARTICLE III BUSINESS OF THE PARTNERSHIP 13
ARTICLE IV CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS AND ACCOUNTS 13
4.01 Capital Contributions 13
4.02 Additional Capital Contributions and Issuances of Additional Partnership Units 13
4.03 Additional Funding 16
4.04 LTIP Units 16
4.05 Conversion of LTIP Units 19
4.06 Capital Accounts 22
4.07 Percentage Interests 23
4.08 No Interest on Contributions 23
4.09 Return of Capital Contributions 23
4.10 No Third-Party Beneficiary 23
ARTICLE V PROFITS AND LOSSES; DISTRIBUTIONS 24
5.01 Allocation of Profit and Loss 24
5.02 Distribution of Cash 26
5.03 REIT Distribution Requirements 27
5.04 No Right to Distributions in Kind 27
5.05 Limitations on Return of Capital Contributions 27
5.06 Distributions Upon Liquidation. 27
5.07 Substantial Economic Effect 28
ARTICLE VI RIGHTS, OBLIGATIONS AND POWERS OF THE GENERAL PARTNER 28
6.01 Management of the Partnership 28
6.02 Delegation of Authority 31
6.03 Indemnification and Exculpation of Indemnitees 31
6.04 Liability of the General Partner 32
6.05 Partnership Obligations 33
6.06 Outside Activities 34
6.07 Employment or Retention of Affiliates 34
6.08 General Partner Activities 34
6.09 Title to Partnership Assets 34
ARTICLE VII CHANGES IN GENERAL PARTNER 35
7.01 Transfer of the General Partner’s Partnership Interest 35
7.02 Admission of a Substitute or Additional General Partner 37
7.03 Effect of Bankruptcy, Withdrawal, Death or Dissolution of General Partner 37
7.04 Removal of General Partner 38

 

i

 

 

ARTICLE VIII RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE LIMITED PARTNERS 39
8.01 Management of the Partnership 39
8.02 Power of Attorney 39
8.03 Limitation on Liability of Limited Partners 39
8.04 Common Unit Redemption Right 40
8.05 Registration 42
ARTICLE IX TRANSFERS OF PARTNERSHIP INTERESTS 46
9.01 Purchase for Investment 46
9.02 Restrictions on Transfer of Partnership Units 47
9.03 Admission of Substitute Limited Partner 48
9.04 Rights of Assignees of Partnership Units 49
9.05 Effect of Bankruptcy, Death, Incompetence or Termination of a Limited Partner 49
9.06 Joint Ownership of Partnership Units 49
ARTICLE X BOOKS AND RECORDS; ACCOUNTING; TAX MATTERS 50
10.01 Books and Records 50
10.02 Custody of Partnership Funds; Bank Accounts 50
10.03 Fiscal and Taxable Year 50
10.04 Annual Tax Information and Report 50
10.05 Partnership Representative; Tax Elections; Special Basis Adjustments 51
ARTICLE XI AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT; MERGER 52
11.01 Amendment of Agreement 52
11.02 Merger of Partnership 53
ARTICLE XII GENERAL PROVISIONS 53
12.01 Notices 53
12.02 Survival of Rights 53
12.03 Additional Documents 53
12.04 Severability 53
12.05 Entire Agreement 53
12.06 Pronouns and Plurals 54
12.07 Headings 54
12.08 Counterparts 54
12.09 Governing Law 54

 

ii

 

 

EXHIBITS

 

EXHIBIT A—Partners, Capital Contributions and Percentage Interests

 

EXHIBIT B—Notice of Exercise of Common Unit Redemption Right

 

EXHIBIT C-1—Certification of Non-Foreign Status (For Redeeming Limited Partners That Are Entities)

 

EXHIBIT C-2—Certification of Non-Foreign Status (For Redeeming Limited Partners That Are Individuals)

 

EXHIBIT D—Notice of Election by Partner to Convert LTIP Units into Common Units

 

EXHIBIT E—Notice of Election by Partnership to Force Conversion of LTIP Units into Common Units

 

 

 

 

FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT OF LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
OF
POSTAL REALTY LP
RECITALS

 

Postal Realty LP (the “Partnership” ) was formed as a limited partnership under the laws of the State of Delaware, pursuant to a Certificate of Limited Partnership filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on November 16, 2018 and an Agreement of Limited Partnership entered into as of December 26, 2018 (the “ Original Agreement”) , by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ General Partner ”), and Postal Realty Limited Partner LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “Original Limited Partner” ). This First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership is entered into this 16th day of May, 2019 among the General Partner and the Limited Partners set forth on Exhibit A hereto, for the purpose of amending and restating the Agreement of Limited Partnership.

 

AGREEMENT

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, of mutual covenants between the parties hereto, and of other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree to amend the Agreement of Limited Partnership to read in its entirety as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

DEFINED TERMS

 

The following defined terms used in this Agreement shall have the meanings specified below:

 

Act ” means the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act, as it may be amended from time to time.

 

Additional Funds ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.03 hereof.

 

Additional Securities ” means any: (1) shares of capital stock of the General Partner now or hereafter authorized or reclassified that have dividend rights, or rights upon liquidation, winding up and dissolution, that are superior or prior to the REIT Shares (“ Preferred Shares ”), (2) REIT Shares, (3) shares of capital stock of the General Partner now or hereafter authorized or reclassified that have dividend rights, or rights upon liquidation, winding up and dissolution, that are junior in rank to the REIT Shares (“ Junior Shares ”) and (4) (i) rights, options, warrants or convertible or exchangeable securities having the right to subscribe for or purchase REIT Shares, Preferred Shares or Junior Shares, or (ii) indebtedness issued by the General Partner that provides any of the rights described in clause (4)(i) of this definition (any such securities referred to in clause (4)(i) or (ii) of this definition, “ New Securities ”).

 

Adjustment Events ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.04(a)(i) hereof.

 

 

 

 

Administrative Expenses ” means (i) all administrative and operating costs and expenses incurred by the Partnership, (ii) administrative costs and expenses of the General Partner, including any salaries or other payments to directors, officers or employees of the General Partner, and any accounting and legal expenses of the General Partner, which expenses, the Partners hereby agree are expenses of the Partnership and not the General Partner, and (iii) to the extent not included in clauses (i) or (ii) above, REIT Expenses; provided , however , that Administrative Expenses shall not include any administrative costs and expenses incurred by the General Partner that are attributable to Properties or interests in a Subsidiary that are owned by the General Partner other than through its ownership interest in the Partnership.

 

Affiliate ” means, (i) any Person that, directly or indirectly, controls or is controlled by or is under common control with such Person, (ii) any other Person that owns, beneficially, directly or indirectly, 10% or more of the outstanding capital stock, shares or equity interests of such Person, or (iii) any officer, director, employee, partner, member, manager or trustee of such Person or any Person controlling, controlled by or under common control with such Person. For the purposes of this definition, “control” (including the correlative meanings of the terms “controlled by” and “under common control with”), as used with respect to any Person, shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, through the ownership of voting securities or partnership interests, contract or otherwise.

 

Agreed Value ” means the fair market value of a Partner’s non-cash Capital Contribution as of the date of contribution as agreed to by such Partner and the General Partner. The names and addresses of the Partners, number of Partnership Units issued to each Partner, and the Agreed Value of non-cash Capital Contributions as of the date of contribution is set forth on Exhibit A , as it may be amended or restated from time to time.

 

Agreement ” means this First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership, as it may be amended, supplemented or restated from time to time.

 

Articles ” means the Articles of Amendment and Restatement of the General Partner filed with the State Department and Assessments and Taxation of the State of Maryland, as amended, supplemented or restated from time to time.

 

Board of Directors ” means the Board of Directors of the General Partner.

 

Capital Account ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06 hereof.

 

Capital Account Limitation ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(b) hereof.

 

Capital Contribution ” means the total amount of cash, cash equivalents, and the Agreed Value of any Property or other asset contributed or agreed to be contributed, as the context requires, to the Partnership by each Partner pursuant to the terms of the Agreement. Any reference to the Capital Contribution of a Partner shall include the Capital Contribution made by a predecessor holder of the Partnership Interest of such Partner.

 

Cash Amount ” means an amount of cash per Common Unit equal to the Value of the REIT Shares Amount on the Specified Redemption Date.

 

  2  

 

 

Certificate ” means any instrument or document that is required under the laws of the State of Delaware, or any other jurisdiction in which the Partnership conducts business, to be signed and sworn to by the Partners of the Partnership (either by themselves or pursuant to the power-of-attorney granted to the General Partner in Section 8.02 hereof) and filed for recording in the appropriate public offices within the State of Delaware or such other jurisdiction to perfect or maintain the Partnership as a limited partnership, to effect the admission, withdrawal or substitution of any Partner of the Partnership, or to protect the limited liability of the Limited Partners as limited partners under the laws of the State of Delaware or such other jurisdiction.

 

Change of Control ” means, as to the General Partner, the occurrence of any of the following: (i) the sale, lease or transfer, in one or a series of related transactions, of 80% or more of the assets of the General Partner, taken as a whole, to any Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), other than an Affiliate of the General Partner; or (ii) the acquisition by any Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), including any group acting for the purpose of acquiring, holding or disposing of securities (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5(b)(1) under the Exchange Act), other than an Affiliate of the General Partner in a single transaction or in a related series of transactions, by way of merger, share exchange, consolidation or other business combination or purchase of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, or any successor provision) of more than 50% of the total voting power of the voting capital stock of the General Partner.

 

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and as hereafter amended from time to time. Reference to any particular provision of the Code shall mean that provision in the Code at the date hereof and any successor provision of the Code.

 

Commission ” means the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Common Partnership Unit Distribution ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.04(a)(ii) hereof.

 

Common Redemption Amount ” means either the Cash Amount or the REIT Shares Amount, as selected by the General Partner pursuant to Section 8.04(b) hereof.

 

Class A Common Unit ” means a Partnership Unit which is designated as a Class A Common Unit of the Partnership.

 

Class B Common Unit ” means a Partnership Unit which is designated as a Class B Common Unit of the Partnership.

 

Class A Common Unit Economic Balance ” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.01(g) hereof.

 

Common Unit Redemption Right ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.04(a) hereof.

 

Common Unit ” means either a Class A Common Unit or a Class B Common Unit.

 

Class A Common Unit Transaction ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(f) hereof.

 

  3  

 

 

Constituent Person ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(f) hereof.

 

Conversion Date ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(b) hereof.

 

Conversion Factor ” means a factor of 1.0, as such factor may be adjusted as provided in this definition and in Section 6.08. The Conversion Factor will be adjusted in the event that the General Partner (i) declares or pays a dividend on its outstanding REIT Shares in REIT Shares or makes a distribution to all holders of its outstanding REIT Shares in REIT Shares, (ii) subdivides its outstanding REIT Shares or (iii) combines its outstanding REIT Shares into a smaller number of REIT Shares. In each of such events, the Conversion Factor shall be adjusted by multiplying the Conversion Factor by a fraction, the numerator of which shall be the number of REIT Shares issued and outstanding on the record date for such dividend, distribution, subdivision or combination (assuming for such purposes that such dividend, distribution, subdivision or combination has occurred as of such time), and the denominator of which shall be the actual number of REIT Shares (determined without the above assumption) issued and outstanding on such record date and, provided further , that in the event that an entity other than an Affiliate of the General Partner shall become General Partner pursuant to any merger, consolidation or combination of the General Partner with or into another entity (the “ Successor Entity ”), the Conversion Factor shall be adjusted by multiplying the Conversion Factor by the number of shares of the Successor Entity into which one REIT Share is converted pursuant to such merger, consolidation or combination, determined as of the date of such merger, consolidation or combination. Any adjustment to the Conversion Factor shall become effective immediately after the effective date of such event retroactive to the record date, if any, for such event. If, however, the General Partner receives a Notice of Redemption after the record date, if any, but prior to the effective date of such event, the Conversion Factor shall be determined as if the General Partner had received the Notice of Redemption immediately prior to the record date for the event.

 

Conversion Notice ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(b) hereof.

 

Conversion Right ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(a) hereof.

 

Defaulting Limited Partner ” means a Limited Partner that has failed to pay any amount owed to the Partnership under a Partnership Loan within 15 days after demand for payment thereof is made by the Partnership.

 

Distributable Amount ” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.02(d) hereof.

 

Economic Capital Account Balances ” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.01(g) hereof.

 

Equity Incentive Plan ” means any equity incentive or compensation plan hereafter adopted by the Partnership or the General Partner, including, without limitation, the General Partner’s 2019 Equity Incentive Plan.

 

  4  

 

 

Event of Bankruptcy ” as to any Person means (i) the filing of a petition for relief as to such Person as debtor or bankrupt under the Bankruptcy Code of 1978, as amended, or similar provision of law of any jurisdiction (except if such petition is contested by such Person and has been dismissed within 90 days); (ii) the insolvency or bankruptcy of such Person as finally determined by a court proceeding; (iii) the filing by such Person of a petition or application to accomplish the same or for the appointment of a receiver or a trustee for such Person or a substantial part of his assets; or (iv) the commencement of any proceedings relating to such Person as a debtor under any other reorganization, arrangement, insolvency, adjustment of debt or liquidation law of any jurisdiction, whether now in existence or hereinafter in effect, either by such Person or by another, provided that if such proceeding is commenced by another, such Person indicates his approval of such proceeding, consents thereto or acquiesces therein, or such proceeding is contested by such Person and has not been finally dismissed within 90 days.

 

Excepted Holder Limit ” has the meaning set forth in the Articles.

 

Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

Forced Conversion ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(c) hereof.

 

Forced Conversion Notice ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.05(c) hereof.

 

General Partner ” has the meaning set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

General Partner Loan ” means a loan extended by the General Partner to a Defaulting Limited Partner in the form of a payment on a Partnership Loan by the General Partner to the Partnership on behalf of the Defaulting Limited Partner.

 

General Partnership Interest ” means the Partnership Interest held by the General Partner in its capacity as the general partner of the Partnership, which Partnership Interest is an interest as a general partner under the Act. The General Partnership Interest will be a number of Common Units held by the General Partner equal to one-tenth of one percent (0.1%) of all outstanding Partnership Units. All other Partnership Units owned by the General Partner and any Partnership Units owned by any Affiliate or Subsidiary of the General Partner shall be considered to constitute a Limited Partnership Interest.

 

Indemnified Party ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.05(f) hereof.

 

Indemnifying Party ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.05(f) hereof.

 

Indemnitee ” means (i) any Person made a party to a proceeding by reason of its status as (A) the General Partner or (B) a director of the General Partner or an officer or employee of the Partnership, the General Partner or any Subsidiary thereof, and (ii) such other Persons (including Affiliates of the General Partner or the Partnership) as the General Partner may designate from time to time (whether before or after the event giving rise to potential liability), in its sole and absolute discretion.

 

Independent Director ” means a director of the General Partner who meets the NYSE requirements for an independent director as set forth from time to time.

 

Junior Shares ” has the meaning set forth in the definition of “Additional Securities.”

 

  5  

 

 

Limited Partner ” means any Person named as a Limited Partner on Exhibit A attached hereto, as it may be amended or restated from time to time, and any Person who becomes a Substitute Limited Partner or any additional Limited Partner, in such Person’s capacity as a Limited Partner in the Partnership.

 

Limited Partnership Interest ” means a Partnership Interest held by a Limited Partner at any particular time representing a fractional part of the Partnership Interest of all Limited Partners, and includes any and all benefits to which the holder of such a Limited Partnership Interest may be entitled as provided in this Agreement and in the Act, together with the obligations of such Limited Partner to comply with all the provisions of this Agreement and of the Act. Limited Partnership Interests may be expressed as a number of Common Units, LTIP Units or other Partnership Units.

 

Liquidating Gains ” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.01(g) hereof.

 

LTIP Unit ” means a Partnership Unit which is designated as an LTIP Unit and which has the rights, preferences and other privileges designated in Section 4.04 hereof and elsewhere in this Agreement in respect of holders of LTIP Units, including both vested LTIP Units and Unvested LTIP Units. The allocation of LTIP Units among the Partners shall be set forth on Exhibit A as it may be amended or restated from time to time.

 

LTIP Unitholder ” means a Partner that holds LTIP Units.

 

Loss ” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.01(h) hereof.

 

Majority in Interest ” means Limited Partners holding more than fifty percent (50%) of the Common Percentage Interests of the Limited Partners.

 

New Securities ” has the meaning set forth in the definition of “Additional Securities”.

 

Notice of Redemption ” means the Notice of Exercise of Common Unit Redemption Right substantially in the form attached as Exhibit B hereto.

 

NYSE ” means the New York Stock Exchange.

 

Offer ” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.01(c)(ii) hereof.

 

Offering ” means the underwritten initial public offering of REIT Shares.

 

“Original Date” means December 26, 2019.

 

Original Limited Partner ” has the meaning set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Partner ” means any General Partner or Limited Partner, and “Partners” means the General Partner and the Limited Partners.

 

  6  

 

 

Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain ” has the meaning set forth in Regulations Section 1.704-2(i). A Partner’s share of Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain shall be determined in accordance with Regulations Section 1.704-2(i)(5).

 

Partnership ” means Postal Realty LP, a limited partnership formed under the Act and pursuant to this Agreement, and any successor thereto.

 

Partnership Interest ” means an ownership interest in the Partnership held by a Partner, and includes any and all benefits to which the holder of such a Partnership Interest may be entitled as provided in this Agreement, together with all obligations of such Person to comply with the terms and provisions of this Agreement. A Partnership Interest may be expressed as a number of Class A Common Units, Class B Common Units, LTIP Units or other Partnership Units.

 

Partnership Loan ” means a loan from the Partnership to the Partner on the day the Partnership pays over the excess of the Withheld Amount over the Distributable Amount to a taxing authority.

 

Partnership Minimum Gain ” has the meaning set forth in Regulations Section 1.704-2(d). In accordance with Regulations Section 1.704-2(d), the amount of Partnership Minimum Gain is determined by first computing, for each Partnership nonrecourse liability, any gain the Partnership would realize if it disposed of the property subject to that liability for no consideration other than full satisfaction of the liability, and then aggregating the separately computed gains. A Partner’s share of Partnership Minimum Gain shall be determined in accordance with Regulations Section 1.704-2(g)(1).

 

Partnership Record Date ” means the record date established by the General Partner for the distribution of cash pursuant to Section 5.02 hereof, which record date shall be the same as the record date established by the General Partner for a distribution to its stockholders of some or all of its portion of such distribution.

 

Partnership Representative ” has the meaning set forth within Section 6223 of the Code.

 

Partnership Unit ” means a fractional, undivided share of the Partnership Interests of all Partners issued hereunder, and includes Class A Common Units, Class B Common Units, LTIP Units and any other class or series of Partnership Units that may be established after the date hereof in accordance with the terms hereof. The number of Partnership Units outstanding and the Percentage Interests represented by such Partnership Units are set forth on Exhibit A hereto, as it may be amended or restated from time to time.

 

Partnership Unit Designation ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.02(a)(i) hereof.

 

Percentage Interest ” means (i) as to the Class A Common Units, the percentage determined by dividing the number of Class A Common Units of a Partner by the aggregate number of Class A Common Units of all Partners, treating LTIP Units, in accordance with Section 4.04(a), as Class A Common Units for this purpose (the “ Class A Percentage Interest ”), (ii) as to the Class B Common Units, the percentage determined by dividing the number of Class B Common Units of a Partner by the aggregate number of Class B Common Units of all Partners (the “ Class B Percentage Interest ”), and (iii) as to the Partnership, the percentage determined by dividing the number of Class A and Class B Common Units of a Partner by the aggregate number of Class A and Class B Common Units of all Partners, treating LTIP Units, in accordance with Section 4.04(a), as Class A Common Units for this purpose (the “ Common Percentage Interest ”).

 

  7  

 

 

Person ” means any individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other entity.

 

Preferred Shares ” has the meaning set forth in the definition of “Additional Securities”.

 

Profit ” has the meaning set forth in Section 5.01(h) hereof.

 

Property ” means any property or other investment in which the Partnership, directly or indirectly, holds an ownership interest.

 

Redeeming Limited Partner ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.04(a) hereof.

 

Redemption Shares ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.05(a) hereof.

 

Regulations ” means the Federal Income Tax Regulations issued under the Code, as amended and as subsequently amended from time to time. Reference to any particular provision of the Regulations shall mean that provision of the Regulations on the date hereof and any successor provision of the Regulations.

 

REIT ” means a real estate investment trust under Sections 856 through 860 of the Code.

 

REIT Expenses ” means (i) costs and expenses relating to the formation and continuity of existence and operation of the General Partner and any Subsidiaries thereof (which Subsidiaries shall, for purposes hereof, be included within the definition of the General Partner), including taxes, fees and assessments associated therewith, any and all costs, expenses or fees payable to any director, officer or employee of the General Partner, (ii) costs and expenses relating to any public offering and registration, or private offering, of securities by the General Partner, and all statements, reports, fees and expenses incidental thereto, including, without limitation, underwriting discounts and selling commissions applicable to any such offering of securities, and any costs and expenses associated with any claims made by any holders of such securities or any underwriters or placement agents thereof, (iii) costs and expenses associated with any repurchase of any securities by the General Partner, (iv) costs and expenses associated with the preparation and filing of any periodic or other reports and communications by the General Partner under federal, state or local laws or regulations, including filings with the Commission, (v) costs and expenses associated with compliance by the General Partner with laws, rules and regulations promulgated by any regulatory body, including the Commission and any securities exchange, (vi) costs and expenses associated with any health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, 401(k) plan, incentive plan, bonus plan or other plan providing for compensation or benefits for the employees of the General Partner, (vii) costs and expenses incurred by the General Partner relating to any issuing or redemption of Partnership Interests and (viii) all other operating or administrative costs of the General Partner incurred in the ordinary course of its business on behalf of or related to the Partnership.

 

  8  

 

 

REIT Shares ” means shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the General Partner (or common stock or common shares of beneficial interest of a Successor Entity, as the case may be).

 

REIT Shares Amount ” means the number of REIT Shares equal to the product of (X) the number of Common Units offered for redemption by a Redeeming Limited Partner, multiplied by (Y) the Conversion Factor as adjusted to and including the Specified Redemption Date; provided that in the event that prior to the Specified Redemption Date, the General Partner issues to all holders of REIT Shares rights, options, warrants or convertible or exchangeable securities entitling the holders of REIT Shares to subscribe for or purchase additional REIT Shares, or any other securities or property (collectively, the “ Rights ”), and such Rights have not expired at the Specified Redemption Date, then the REIT Shares Amount shall also include such Rights issuable to a holder of the REIT Shares Amount on the record date fixed for purposes of determining the holders of REIT Shares entitled to Rights.

 

Restriction Notice ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.04(f) hereof.

 

Rights ” has the meaning set forth in the definition of “REIT Shares Amount” herein.

 

Rule 144 ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.05(c)(2) hereof.

 

S-3 Eligible Date ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.05(a) hereof.

 

“Safe Harbor” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.05(d) hereof.

 

Safe Harbor Election ” has the meaning set forth in Section 11.01 hereof.

 

Safe Harbor Interests ” has the meaning set forth in Section 11.01 hereof.

 

Securities Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

Service ” means the Internal Revenue Service.

 

Stock Ownership Limit ” has the meaning set forth in the Articles.

 

Specified Redemption Date ” means the first business day of the calendar quarter that is at least 60 calendar days after the receipt by the General Partner of a Notice of Redemption.

 

Subsidiary ” means, with respect to any Person, any corporation or other entity of which a majority of (i) the voting power of the voting equity securities or (ii) the outstanding equity interests is owned, directly or indirectly, by such Person.

 

Subsidiary Partnership ” means any partnership or limited liability company in which the General Partner, the Partnership, or a wholly owned subsidiary of the General Partner or the Partnership owns a partnership or limited liability company interest.

 

Substitute Limited Partner ” means any Person admitted to the Partnership as a Limited Partner pursuant to Section 9.03 hereof.

 

  9  

 

 

Successor Entity ” has the meaning set forth in the definition of “Conversion Factor” herein.

 

Survivor ” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.01(d) hereof.

 

Trading Day ” means a day on which the principal national securities exchange on which a security is listed or admitted to trading is open for the transaction of business or, if a security is not listed or admitted to trading on any national securities exchange, shall mean any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday or a day on which banking institutions in the State of New York are authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close.

 

Transaction ” has the meaning set forth in Section 7.01(c) hereof.

 

Transfer ” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.02(a) hereof.

 

TRS ” means a taxable REIT subsidiary (as defined in Section 856(l) of the Code) of the General Partner.

 

Unvested LTIP Units ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.04(c)(i) hereof.

 

Value ” means, with respect to any security, the average of the daily market prices of such security for the ten consecutive Trading Days immediately preceding the date of such valuation. The market price for each such Trading Day shall be: (i) if the security is listed or admitted to trading on the NYSE or any other national securities exchange, the last reported sale price, regular way, on such day, or if no such sale takes place on such day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices, regular way, on such day, (ii) if the security is not listed or admitted to trading on the NYSE or any other national securities exchange, the last reported sale price on such day or, if no sale takes place on such day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices on such day, as reported by a reliable quotation source designated by the General Partner, or (iii) if the security is not listed or admitted to trading on the NYSE or any national securities exchange and no such last reported sale price or closing bid and asked prices are available, the average of the reported high bid and low asked prices on such day, as reported by a reliable quotation source designated by the General Partner, or if there shall be no bid and asked prices on such day, the average of the high bid and low asked prices, as so reported, on the most recent day (not more than ten days prior to the date in question) for which prices have been so reported; provided that if there are no bid and asked prices reported during the ten days prior to the date in question, the value of the security shall be determined by the General Partner acting in good faith on the basis of such quotations and other information as it considers, in its reasonable judgment, appropriate. In the event the security includes any additional rights (including any Rights), then the value of such rights shall be determined by the General Partner acting in good faith on the basis of such quotations and other information as it considers, in its reasonable judgment, appropriate.

 

Vested LTIP Units ” has the meaning set forth in Section 4.04(c)(i) hereof.

 

Vesting Agreement ” means each or any, as the context implies, agreement or instrument entered into by an LTIP Unitholder upon acceptance of an award of LTIP Units under an Equity Incentive Plan.

 

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Withheld Amount ” means any amount required to be withheld by the Partnership to pay over to any taxing authority as a result of any allocation or distribution of income to a Partner.

 

ARTICLE II

FORMATION OF THE PARTNERSHIP

 

2.01          Formation of the Partnership . The Partnership was formed as a limited partnership pursuant to the provisions of the Act and upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Original Agreement. Concurrently with the execution of this Agreement, the Original Limited Partner is withdrawing from the Partnership and relinquishing any and all rights or interest he may have in the Partnership other than as set forth on Exhibit A , and the Partnership is continued without dissolution. Except as expressly provided herein to the contrary, the rights and obligations of the Partners and administration and termination of the Partnership shall be governed by the Act. The Partnership Interest of each Partner shall be personal property for all purposes.

 

2.02          Name . The Name of the Partnership shall be “Postal Realty LP” and the Partnership’s business may be conducted under any other name or names deemed advisable by the General Partner, including the name of the General Partner or any Affiliate thereof. The words “Limited Partnership,” “LP,” “L.P.” or “Ltd.” or similar words or letters shall be included in the Partnership’s name where necessary for the purposes of complying with the laws of any jurisdiction that so requires. The General Partner in its sole and absolute discretion may change the name of the Partnership at any time and from time to time and shall notify the Partners of such change in the next regular communication to the Partners; provided, however , failure to so notify the Partners shall not invalidate such change or the authority granted hereunder.

 

2.03          Registered Office and Agent; Principal Office . The registered office of the Partnership in the State of Delaware is located at 1675 South State Street, Suite B, Dover DE 19901 and the registered agent for service of process on the Partnership in the State of Delaware at such registered office is Capitol Services, Inc. The principal office of the Partnership is located at 75Columbia Avenue, Cedarhurst, NY 11516, or such other place as the General Partner may from time to time designate. Upon such a change of the principal office of the Partnership, the General Partner shall notify the Partners of such change in the next regular communication to the Partners; provided , however , failure to so notify the Partners shall not invalidate such change or the authority granted hereunder. The Partnership may maintain offices at such other place or places within or outside the State of Delaware as the General Partner deems necessary or desirable.

 

2.04          Term and Dissolution .

 

(a)            The term of the Partnership shall continue in full force and effect until dissolved upon the first to occur of any of the following events:

 

(i)           the occurrence of an Event of Bankruptcy as to a General Partner or the dissolution, death, removal or withdrawal of a General Partner unless the business of the Partnership is continued pursuant to Section 7.03(b) hereof; provided that if a General Partner is on the date of such occurrence a partnership, the dissolution of such General Partner as a result of the dissolution, death, withdrawal, removal or Event of Bankruptcy of a partner in such partnership shall not be an event of dissolution of the Partnership if the business of such General Partner is continued by the remaining partner or partners, either alone or with additional partners, and such General Partner and such partners comply with any other applicable requirements of this Agreement;

 

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(ii)          the passage of 90 days after the sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Partnership ( provided that if the Partnership receives an installment obligation as consideration for such sale or other disposition, the Partnership shall continue, unless sooner dissolved under the provisions of this Agreement, until such time as such installment obligations are paid in full);

 

(iii)         the redemption of all Limited Partnership Interests (other than any Limited Partnership Interests held by the General Partner), unless the General Partner determines to continue the term of the Partnership by the admission of one or more additional Limited Partners; or

 

(iv)         the dissolution of the Partnership upon election by the General Partner.

 

(b)           Upon dissolution of the Partnership (unless the business of the Partnership is continued pursuant to Section 7.03(b) hereof), the General Partner (or its trustee, receiver, successor or legal representative) shall amend or cancel the Certificate and liquidate the Partnership’s assets and apply and distribute the proceeds thereof in accordance with Section 5.06 hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the liquidating General Partner may either (i) defer liquidation of, or withhold from distribution for a reasonable time, any assets of the Partnership (including those necessary to satisfy the Partnership’s debts and obligations), or (ii) distribute the assets to the Partners in kind.

 

2.05          Filing of Certificate and Perfection of Limited Partnership . The General Partner shall execute, acknowledge, record and file at the expense of the Partnership the Certificate and any and all amendments thereto and all requisite fictitious name statements and notices in such places and jurisdictions as may be necessary to cause the Partnership to be treated as a limited partnership under, and otherwise to comply with, the laws of each state or other jurisdiction in which the Partnership conducts business.

 

2.06          Certificates Describing Partnership Units . At the request of a Limited Partner, the General Partner, at its option, may issue a certificate summarizing the terms of such Limited Partner’s interest in the Partnership, including the class or series and number of Partnership Units owned and the Percentage Interest represented by such Partnership Units as of the date of such certificate. Any such certificate (i) shall be in form and substance as determined by the General Partner, (ii) shall not be negotiable and (iii) shall bear a legend to the following effect:

 

THIS CERTIFICATE IS NOT NEGOTIABLE. THE PARTNERSHIP UNITS REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE GOVERNED BY AND TRANSFERABLE ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH (A) THE PROVISIONS OF THE AGREEMENT OF LIMITED PARTNERSHIP OF POSTAL REALTY LP, AS AMENDED, SUPPLEMENTED OR RESTATED FROM TIME TO TIME, AND (B) ANY APPLICABLE FEDERAL OR STATE SECURITIES OR BLUE SKY LAWS.

 

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ARTICLE III

 

BUSINESS OF THE PARTNERSHIP

 

The purpose and nature of the business of the Partnership is (i) to conduct any business that may be lawfully conducted by a limited partnership organized pursuant to the Act, provided , however , that such business shall be limited to and conducted in such a manner as to permit the General Partner at all times to qualify as a REIT, unless the General Partner otherwise ceases to, or the Board of Directors determines, pursuant to Section 5.7 of the Articles, that the General Partner shall no longer qualify as a REIT, (ii) to enter into any partnership, joint venture or other similar arrangement to engage in any of the foregoing or the ownership of interests in any entity engaged in any of the foregoing and (iii) to do anything necessary or incidental to the foregoing. In connection with the foregoing, and without limiting the General Partner’s right in its sole and absolute discretion to cease qualifying as a REIT, the Partners acknowledge that the General Partner intends to elect REIT status and the avoidance of income and excise taxes on the General Partner inures to the benefit of all the Partners and not solely to the General Partner. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Limited Partners agree that the General Partner may terminate or revoke its status as a REIT under the Code at any time. The General Partner shall also be empowered to do any and all acts and things necessary or prudent to ensure that the Partnership will not be classified as a “publicly traded partnership” taxable as a corporation for purposes of Section 7704 of the Code.

 

ARTICLE IV

CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS AND ACCOUNTS

 

4.01          Capital Contributions . The General Partner and each Limited Partner has made a capital contribution to the Partnership in exchange for the Partnership Units set forth opposite such Partner’s name on Exhibit A hereto, as it may be amended or restated from time to time by the General Partner to the extent necessary to reflect accurately sales, exchanges or other Transfers, redemptions, Capital Contributions, the issuance of additional Partnership Units or similar events having an effect on a Partner’s ownership of Partnership Units.

 

4.02          Additional Capital Contributions and Issuances of Additional Partnership Units . Except as provided in this Section 4.02 or in Section 4.03 hereof, the Partners shall have no right or obligation to make any additional Capital Contributions or loans to the Partnership. The General Partner may contribute additional capital to the Partnership, from time to time, and receive additional Partnership Interests, in the form of Partnership Units, in respect thereof, in the manner contemplated in this Section 4.02.

 

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(a)            Issuances of Additional Partnership Units .

 

(i)           General . As of the effective date of this Agreement, the Partnership shall have authorized three classes of Partnership Units, entitled “Class A Common Units,” “Class B Common Units,” and “LTIP Units.” The General Partner is hereby authorized to cause the Partnership to issue additional Partnership Interests, in the form of Partnership Units, for any Partnership purpose at any time or from time to time to the Partners (including the General Partner) or to other Persons for such consideration and on such terms and conditions as shall be established by the General Partner in its sole and absolute discretion, all without the approval of any Limited Partners. The General Partner’s determination that consideration is adequate shall be conclusive insofar as the adequacy of consideration relates to whether the Partnership Units are validly issued and fully paid. Any additional Partnership Units issued thereby may be issued in one or more classes, or one or more series of any of such classes, with such designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, powers and duties, including rights, powers and duties senior to the then-outstanding Partnership Units held by the Limited Partners, all as shall be determined by the General Partner in its sole and absolute discretion and without the approval of any Limited Partner, subject to Delaware law that cannot be preempted by the terms hereof and as set forth in a written document hereafter attached to and made an exhibit to this Agreement (each, a “ Partnership Unit Designation ”), which document shall include, without limitation, (i) the allocations of items of Partnership income, gain, loss, deduction and credit to each such class or series of Partnership Units; (ii) the right of each such class or series of Partnership Units to share in Partnership distributions; and (iii) the rights of each such class or series of Partnership Units upon dissolution and liquidation of the Partnership; provided , however , that no additional Partnership Units shall be issued to the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly-owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) unless:

 

(1)          (A) the additional Partnership Units are issued in connection with an issuance of REIT Shares or other capital stock of, or other interests in, the General Partner, which REIT Shares, capital stock or other interests have designations, preferences and other rights, all such that the economic interests are substantially similar to the designations, preferences and other rights of the additional Partnership Units issued to the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) by the Partnership in accordance with this Section 4.02 and (B) the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) shall make a Capital Contribution to the Partnership in an amount equal to the cash consideration received by the General Partner, if any, from such grant, award or issuance of such REIT Shares, capital stock or other interests in the General Partner;

 

(2)          (A) the additional Partnership Units are issued in connection with a grant award or issuance of REIT Shares or other capital stock of, or other interests in, the General Partner pursuant to a taxable share dividend declared by the General Partner, which REIT Shares, capital stock or interests have designations, preferences and other rights, all such that the economic interests are substantially similar to the designations, preferences and other rights of the additional Partnership Units issued to the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) by the Partnership in accordance with this Section 4.02, (B) if the General Partner allows the holders of its REIT Shares to elect whether to receive such dividend in REIT Shares or other capital stock of, or other interests in, the General Partner, or cash, the Partnership will give the Limited Partners (excluding the General Partner or any direct or indirect Subsidiary of the General Partner) the same ability to elect to receive (I) Partnership Units or cash or, (II) at the election of the General Partner, REIT Shares, capital stock or other interests in the General Partner or cash, and (C) if the Partnership issues additional Partnership Units pursuant to this Section 4.02(a)(i)(2), then an amount of income equal to the value of the Partnership Units received will be allocated to those holders of Common Units that elect to receive additional Partnership Units;

 

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(3)          the additional Partnership Units are issued in exchange for property owned by the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) with a fair market value, as determined by the General Partner, in good faith, equal to the value of the Partnership Units; or

 

(4)          Common Units are issued to all Partners owning Common Units or LTIP Units in proportion to their respective Percentage Interests.

 

Without limiting the foregoing, the General Partner is expressly authorized to cause the Partnership to issue Partnership Units for less than fair market value, so long as the General Partner concludes in good faith that such issuance is in the interests of the Partnership. Upon the issuance of any additional Partnership Units, the General Partner shall amend Exhibit A as appropriate to reflect such issuance.

 

(ii)          Upon Issuance of Additional Securities . The General Partner shall not issue any Additional Securities (other than REIT Shares issued in connection with an exchange pursuant to Section 8.04 hereof or REIT Shares or other capital stock of or other interests in the General Partner issued in connection with a taxable stock dividend as described in Section 4.02(a)(i)(2) hereof) or Rights other than to all holders of REIT Shares, Preferred Shares, Junior Shares, or New Securities, as the case may be, unless (A) the General Partner shall cause the Partnership to issue to the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) Partnership Units or Rights having designations, preferences and other rights, all such that the economic interests are substantially similar to those of the Additional Securities, and (B) the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) contributes the proceeds from the issuance of such Additional Securities and from any exercise of Rights contained in such Additional Securities to the Partnership; provided , however , that the General Partner is allowed to issue Additional Securities in connection with an acquisition of Property to be held directly by the General Partner, but if and only if, such direct acquisition and issuance of Additional Securities have been approved by a majority of the Independent Directors. Without limiting the foregoing, the General Partner is expressly authorized to issue Additional Securities for less than fair market value, and the General Partner is authorized to cause the Partnership to issue to the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) corresponding Partnership Units, so long as (x) the General Partner concludes in good faith that such issuance is in the best interests of the General Partner and the Partnership and (y) the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) contributes all proceeds from such issuance to the Partnership, including without limitation, the issuance of REIT Shares and corresponding Partnership Units pursuant to a stock purchase plan providing for purchases of REIT Shares at a discount from fair market value or pursuant to stock awards, including stock options that have an exercise price that is less than the fair market value of the REIT Shares, either at the time of issuance or at the time of exercise, and restricted or other stock awards approved by the Board of Directors. For example, in the event the General Partner issues REIT Shares for a cash purchase price and the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) contributes all of the proceeds of such issuance to the Partnership as required hereunder, the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) shall be issued a number of additional Partnership Units equal to the product of (A) the number of such REIT Shares issued by the General Partner, the proceeds of which were so contributed, multiplied by (B) a fraction, the numerator of which is 100%, and the denominator of which is the Conversion Factor in effect on the date of such contribution.

 

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(b)           Certain Contributions of Proceeds of Issuance of REIT Shares . In connection with any and all issuances of REIT Shares, the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) shall make Capital Contributions to the Partnership of the proceeds therefrom (if any), provided that if the proceeds actually received and contributed by the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) are less than the gross proceeds of such issuance as a result of any underwriter’s discount, commissions, placement fees or other expenses paid or incurred in connection with such issuance, then the General Partner (or any direct or indirect wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner) shall be deemed to have made a Capital Contribution to the Partnership in the amount equal to the sum of the net proceeds of such issuance plus the amount of such underwriter’s discount, commissions, placement fees or other expenses paid by the General Partner, and the Partnership shall be deemed simultaneously to have reimbursed such discount, commissions, placement fees and expenses as an Administrative Expense for the benefit of the Partnership for purposes of Section 6.05(b).

 

(c)           Repurchases of General Partner Securities . If the General Partner shall repurchase shares of any class or series of its capital stock, the purchase price thereof and all costs incurred in connection with such repurchase shall be reimbursed to the General Partner by the Partnership pursuant to Section 6.05 hereof and the General Partner shall cause the Partnership to redeem an equivalent number of Partnership Units of the appropriate class or series held by the General Partner, or by the General Partner in its capacity as a Limited Partner (which, in the case of REIT Shares, shall be a number equal to the quotient of the number of such REIT Shares divided by the Conversion Factor).

 

4.03          Additional Funding . If the General Partner determines that it is in the best interests of the Partnership to provide for additional Partnership funds (“ Additional Funds ”) for any Partnership purpose, the General Partner may (i) cause the Partnership to obtain such funds from outside borrowings, or (ii) elect to have the General Partner or any of its Affiliates provide such Additional Funds to the Partnership through loans or otherwise.

 

4.04          LTIP Units .

 

(a)            Issuance of LTIP Units . Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, the General Partner may from time to time issue LTIP Units to Persons who provide services to the Partnership or the General Partner, for such consideration as the General Partner may determine to be appropriate, and admit such Persons as Limited Partners. Subject to the following provisions of this Section 4.04 and the special provisions of Sections 4.05 and 5.01(g) hereof, LTIP Units shall be treated as Class A Common Units, with all of the rights, privileges and obligations attendant thereto. For purposes of computing the Partners’ Percentage Interests, holders of LTIP Units shall be treated as Class A Common Unit holders and LTIP Units shall be treated as Class A Common Units. In particular, the Partnership shall maintain at all times a one-to-one correspondence between LTIP Units and Class A Common Units for conversion, distribution and other purposes, including, without limitation, complying with the following procedures:

 

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(i)           If an Adjustment Event (as defined below) occurs, then the General Partner shall make a corresponding adjustment to the LTIP Units to maintain a one-for-one conversion and economic equivalence ratio between Class A Common Units and LTIP Units. The following shall be “ Adjustment Events ”: (A) the Partnership makes a distribution on all outstanding Class A Common Units in the form of Partnership Units, (B) the Partnership subdivides the outstanding Class A Common Units into a greater number of units or combines the outstanding Class A Common Units into a smaller number of units, or (C) the Partnership issues any Partnership Units in exchange for its outstanding Class A Common Units by way of a reclassification or recapitalization of its Common Units. If more than one Adjustment Event occurs, the adjustment to the LTIP Units need be made only once using a single formula that takes into account each and every Adjustment Event as if all Adjustment Events occurred simultaneously. For the avoidance of doubt, the following shall not be Adjustment Events: (x) the issuance of Partnership Units in a financing, reorganization, acquisition or other similar business Class A Common Unit Transaction, (y) the issuance of Partnership Units pursuant to any employee benefit or compensation plan or distribution reinvestment plan or (z) the issuance of any Partnership Units to the General Partner in respect of a capital contribution to the Partnership of proceeds from the sale of Additional Securities by the General Partner. If the Partnership takes an action affecting the Class A Common Units other than actions specifically described above as “Adjustment Events” and in the opinion of the General Partner such action would require an adjustment to the LTIP Units to maintain the one-to-one correspondence described above, the General Partner shall have the right to make such adjustment to the LTIP Units, to the extent permitted by law and by any Equity Incentive Plan and Vesting Agreement, in such manner and at such time as the General Partner, in its sole discretion, may determine to be appropriate under the circumstances. If an adjustment is made to the LTIP Units, as herein provided, the Partnership shall promptly file in the books and records of the Partnership an officer’s certificate setting forth such adjustment and a brief statement of the facts requiring such adjustment, which certificate shall be conclusive evidence of the correctness of such adjustment absent manifest error. Promptly after filing of such certificate, the Partnership shall deliver a notice to each LTIP Unitholder setting forth the adjustment to his or her LTIP Units and the effective date of such adjustment; provided , however , the failure to deliver such notice shall not invalidate the adjustment or the authority granted hereunder, and

 

(ii)          The LTIP Unitholders shall, when, as and if authorized and declared by the General Partner out of assets legally available for that purpose, be entitled to receive distributions in an amount per LTIP Unit equal to the distributions per Common Unit paid to holders of Common Units on such Partnership Record Date established by the General Partner with respect to such distribution (the “ Common Partnership Unit Distribution ”). So long as any LTIP Units are outstanding, no distributions (whether in cash or in kind) shall be authorized, declared or paid on Common Units, unless equal distributions have been or contemporaneously are authorized, declared and paid on the LTIP Units.

 

(b)           Priority . Subject to the provisions of this Section 4.04, the special provisions of Sections 4.05 and 5.01(g) hereof and any Vesting Agreement, the LTIP Units shall rank pari passu with the Class A Common Units as to the payment of regular and special periodic or other distributions and distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up. As to the payment of distributions and as to distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up, any class or series of Partnership Units which by its terms specifies that it shall rank junior to, on a parity with, or senior to the Common Units shall also rank junior to, or pari passu with, or senior to, as the case may be, the LTIP Units. Subject to the terms of any Vesting Agreement, an LTIP Unitholder shall be entitled to transfer his or her LTIP Units to the same extent, and subject to the same restrictions as holders of Common Units are entitled to transfer their Common Units pursuant to Article IX.

 

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(c)            Special Provisions . LTIP Units shall be subject to the following special provisions:

 

(i)           Vesting Agreements . LTIP Units may, in the sole discretion of the General Partner, be issued subject to vesting, forfeiture and additional restrictions on transfer pursuant to the terms of a Vesting Agreement. The terms of any Vesting Agreement may be modified by the General Partner from time to time in its sole discretion, subject to any restrictions on amendment imposed by the relevant Vesting Agreement or by the Equity Incentive Plan, if applicable. LTIP Units that have vested under the terms of a Vesting Agreement are referred to as “ Vested LTIP Units ”; all other LTIP Units shall be treated as “ Unvested LTIP Units .”

 

(ii)          Forfeiture . Unless otherwise specified in the Vesting Agreement, upon the occurrence of any event specified in a Vesting Agreement resulting in either the right of the Partnership or the General Partner to repurchase LTIP Units at a specified purchase price or some other forfeiture of any LTIP Units, then if the Partnership or the General Partner exercises such right to repurchase or forfeiture occurs in accordance with the applicable Vesting Agreement, the relevant LTIP Units shall immediately, and without any further action, be treated as cancelled and no longer outstanding for any purpose. Unless otherwise specified in the Vesting Agreement, no consideration or other payment shall be due with respect to any LTIP Units that have been forfeited, other than any distributions declared with respect to a Partnership Record Date prior to the effective date of the forfeiture. In connection with any repurchase or forfeiture of LTIP Units, the balance of the portion of the Capital Account of the LTIP Unitholder that is attributable to all of such LTIP Unitholder’s LTIP Units shall be reduced by the amount, if any, by which it exceeds the target balance contemplated by Section 5.01(g) hereof, calculated with respect to the LTIP Unitholder’s remaining LTIP Units, if any.

 

(iii)         Allocations . LTIP Unitholders shall be entitled to certain special allocations of gain under Section 5.01(g) hereof.

 

(iv)         Redemption . The Common Unit Redemption Right provided to Limited Partners under Section 8.04 hereof shall not apply with respect to LTIP Units unless and until they are converted to Common Units as provided in clause (v) below and Section 4.05 hereof.

 

(v)          Conversion to Class A Common Units . Vested LTIP Units are eligible to be converted into Class A Common Units in accordance with Section 4.05 hereof.

 

(d)            Voting . LTIP Unitholders shall (a) have the same voting rights as the holders of Common Units, with all Vested LTIP Units and Unvested LTIP Units voting as a single class with the Common Units and having one vote per LTIP Unit; and (b) have the additional voting rights that are expressly set forth below. So long as any LTIP Units remain outstanding, the Partnership shall not, without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the LTIP Units (Vested LTIP Units and Unvested LTIP Units) outstanding at the time, given in person or by proxy, either in writing or at a meeting (voting separately as a class), amend, alter or repeal, whether by merger, consolidation or otherwise, the provisions of this Agreement applicable to LTIP Units so as to materially and adversely affect (as determined in good faith by the General Partner) any right, privilege or voting power of the LTIP Units or the LTIP Unitholders as such, unless such amendment, alteration, or repeal affects equally, ratably and proportionately the rights, privileges and voting powers of the holders of Class A Common Units; but subject, in any event, to the following provisions:

 

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(i)           With respect to any Common Unit Transaction (as defined in Section 4.05(f) hereof), so long as the LTIP Units are treated in accordance with Section 4.05(f) hereof, the consummation of such Common Unit Transaction shall not be deemed to materially and adversely affect such rights, preferences, privileges or voting powers of the LTIP Units or the LTIP Unitholders as such; and

 

(ii)          Any creation or issuance of any Partnership Units or of any class or series of Partnership Interest including without limitation additional Common Units or LTIP Units, whether ranking senior to, junior to, or on a parity with the LTIP Units with respect to distributions and the distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up, shall not be deemed to materially and adversely affect such rights, preferences, privileges or voting powers of the LTIP Units or the LTIP Unitholders as such.

 

The foregoing voting provisions will not apply if, at or prior to the time when the act with respect to which such vote would otherwise be required will be effected, all outstanding LTIP Units shall have been converted into Common Units.

 

4.05          Conversion of LTIP Units .

 

(a)            Subject to the provisions of this Section 4.05, an LTIP Unitholder shall have the right (the “ Conversion Right ”), at such holder’s option, at any time to convert all or a portion of such holder’s Vested LTIP Units into Class A Common Units; provided , however , that a holder may not exercise the Conversion Right for less than 1,000 Vested LTIP Units or, if such holder holds less than 1,000 Vested LTIP Units, all of the Vested LTIP Units held by such holder. LTIP Unitholders shall not have the right to convert Unvested LTIP Units into Class A Common Units until they become Vested LTIP Units; provided , however , that when an LTIP Unitholder is notified of the expected occurrence of an event that will cause such LTIP Unitholder’s Unvested LTIP Units to become Vested LTIP Units, such LTIP Unitholder may give the Partnership a Conversion Notice conditioned upon and effective as of the time of vesting and such Conversion Notice, unless subsequently revoked by the LTIP Unitholder, shall be accepted by the Partnership subject to such condition. The General Partner shall have the right at any time to cause a conversion of Vested LTIP Units into Class A Common Units. In all cases, the conversion of any LTIP Units into Class A Common Units shall be subject to the conditions and procedures set forth in this Section 4.05.

 

(b)            A holder of Vested LTIP Units may convert such LTIP Units into an equal number of fully paid and non-assessable Class A Common Units, giving effect to all adjustments (if any) made pursuant to Section 4.04 hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event may a holder of Vested LTIP Units convert a number of Vested LTIP Units that exceeds (x) the Economic Capital Account Balance of such Limited Partner, to the extent attributable to its ownership of LTIP Units, divided by (y) the Class A Common Unit Economic Balance, in each case as determined as of the effective date of conversion (the “ Capital Account Limitation ”).

 

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In order to exercise the Conversion Right, an LTIP Unitholder shall deliver a notice (a “ Conversion Notice ”) in the form attached as Exhibit D hereto to the Partnership (with a copy to the General Partner) not less than ten nor more than 60 days prior to a date (the “ Conversion Date ”) specified in such Conversion Notice; provided , however , that if the General Partner has not given to the LTIP Unitholders notice of a proposed or upcoming Class A Common Unit Transaction (as defined in Section 4.05(f) hereof) at least 30 days prior to the effective date of such Common Unit Transaction, then LTIP Unitholders shall have the right to deliver a Conversion Notice until the earlier of (x) the tenth day after such notice from the General Partner of a Class A Common Unit Transaction or (y) the third Trading Day immediately preceding the effective date of such Class A Common Unit Transaction. A Conversion Notice shall be provided in the manner provided in Section 12.01 hereof. Each LTIP Unitholder covenants and agrees with the Partnership that all Vested LTIP Units to be converted pursuant to this Section 4.05(b) shall be free and clear of all liens, claims and encumbrances. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, a holder of LTIP Units may deliver a Notice of Redemption pursuant to Section 8.04(a) hereof relating to those Class A Common Units that will be issued to such holder upon conversion of such LTIP Units into Class A Common Units in advance of the Conversion Date; provided , however , that the redemption of such Class A Common Units by the Partnership shall in no event take place until on or after the Conversion Date. For clarity, it is noted that the objective of this paragraph is to put an LTIP Unitholder in a position where, if such holder so wishes, the Class A Common Units into which such holder’s Vested LTIP Units will be converted can be tendered to the Partnership for redemption simultaneously with such conversion, with the further consequence that, if the General Partner elects to assume the Partnership’s redemption obligation with respect to such Class A Common Units under Section 8.04(b) hereof by delivering to such holder the REIT Shares Amount, then such holder can have the REIT Shares Amount issued to such holder simultaneously with the conversion of such holder’s Vested LTIP Units into Class A Common Units. The General Partner and LTIP Unitholder shall reasonably cooperate with each other to coordinate the timing of the events described in the foregoing sentence.

 

(c)            The Partnership, at any time at the election of the General Partner, may cause any number of Vested LTIP Units held by an LTIP Unitholder to be converted (a “ Forced Conversion ”) into an equal number of Class A Common Units, giving effect to all adjustments (if any) made pursuant to Section 4.04 hereof; provided , however , that the Partnership may not cause Forced Conversion of any LTIP Units that would not at the time be eligible for conversion at the option of such LTIP Unitholder pursuant to Section 4.05(b) hereof. In order to exercise its right of Forced Conversion, the Partnership shall deliver a notice (a “ Forced Conversion Notice ”) in the form attached as Exhibit E hereto to the applicable LTIP Unitholder not less than ten nor more than 60 days prior to the Conversion Date specified in such Forced Conversion Notice. A Forced Conversion Notice shall be provided in the manner provided in Section 12.01 hereof and shall be revocable by the General Partner at any time prior to the Forced Conversion.

 

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(d)            A conversion of Vested LTIP Units for which the holder thereof has given a Conversion Notice or the Partnership has given a Forced Conversion Notice shall occur automatically after the close of business on the applicable Conversion Date without any action on the part of such LTIP Unitholder, as of which time such LTIP Unitholder shall be credited on the books and records of the Partnership with the issuance as of the opening of business on the next day of the number of Class A Common Units issuable upon such conversion. After the conversion of LTIP Units as aforesaid, the Partnership shall deliver to such LTIP Unitholder, upon his or her written request, a certificate of the General Partner certifying the number of Class A Common Units and remaining LTIP Units, if any, held by such person immediately after such conversion. The Assignee of any Limited Partner pursuant to Article IX hereof may exercise the rights of such Limited Partner pursuant to this Section 4.05 and such Limited Partner shall be bound by the exercise of such rights by the Assignee.

 

(e)            For purposes of making future allocations under Section 5.01(g) hereof and applying the Capital Account Limitation, the portion of the Economic Capital Account Balance of the applicable LTIP Unitholder that is treated as attributable to his or her LTIP Units shall be reduced, as of the date of conversion, by the product of the number of LTIP Units converted and the Class A Common Unit Economic Balance.

 

(f)             If the Partnership or the General Partner shall be a party to any Class A Common Unit Transaction (including without limitation a merger, consolidation, unit exchange, self tender offer for all or substantially all Common Units or other business combination or reorganization, or sale of all or substantially all of the Partnership’s assets, but excluding any Class A Common Unit Transaction which constitutes an Adjustment Event) in each case as a result of which Class A Common Units shall be exchanged for or converted into the right, or the holders of Class A Common Units shall otherwise be entitled, to receive cash, securities or other property or any combination thereof (each of the foregoing being referred to herein as a “ Class A Common Unit Transaction ”), then the General Partner shall, subject to the terms of any applicable Equity Incentive Plan or Vesting Agreement, exercise immediately prior to the Class A Common Unit Transaction its right to cause a Forced Conversion with respect to the maximum number of LTIP Units then eligible for conversion, taking into account any allocations that occur in connection with the Class A Common Unit Transaction or that would occur in connection with the Class A Common Unit Transaction if the assets of the Partnership were sold at the Common Unit Transaction price or, if applicable, at a value determined by the General Partner in good faith using the value attributed to the Partnership Units in the context of the Class A Common Unit Transaction (in which case the Conversion Date shall be the effective date of the Class A Common Unit Transaction).

 

In anticipation of such Forced Conversion and the consummation of the Class A Common Unit Transaction, the Partnership shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cause each LTIP Unitholder to be afforded the right to receive in connection with such Class A Common Unit Transaction in consideration for the Class A Common Units into which such LTIP Unitholder’s LTIP Units will be converted the same kind and amount of cash, securities and other property (or any combination thereof) receivable upon the consummation of such Class A Common Unit Transaction by a holder of the same number of Class A Common Units, assuming such holder of Class A Common Units is not a Person with which the Partnership consolidated or into which the Partnership merged or which merged into the Partnership or to which such sale or transfer was made, as the case may be (a “ Constituent Person ”), or an affiliate of a Constituent Person. In the event that holders of Class A Common Units have the opportunity to elect the form or type of consideration to be received upon consummation of the Class A Common Unit Transaction, prior to such Class A Common Unit Transaction, the General Partner shall give prompt written notice to each LTIP Unitholder of such election, and shall use commercially reasonable efforts to afford the LTIP Unitholders the right to elect, by written notice to the General Partner, the form or type of consideration to be received upon conversion of each LTIP Unit held by such holder into Class A Common Units in connection with such Class A Common Unit Transaction. If an LTIP Unitholder fails to make such an election, such holder (and any of its transferees) shall receive upon conversion of each LTIP Unit held by such LTIP Unitholder (or by any of such LTIP Unitholder’s transferees) the same kind and amount of consideration that a holder of a Class A Common Unit would receive if such Class A Common Unit holder failed to make such an election.

 

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Subject to the rights of the Partnership and the General Partner under any Vesting Agreement and any Equity Incentive Plan, the Partnership shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the terms of any Class A Common Unit Transaction to be consistent with the provisions of this Section 4.05(f) and to enter into an agreement with the successor or purchasing entity, as the case may be, for the benefit of any LTIP Unitholders whose LTIP Units will not be converted into Class A Common Units in connection with the Class A Common Unit Transaction that will (i) contain provisions enabling the holders of LTIP Units that remain outstanding after such Class A Common Unit Transaction to convert their LTIP Units into securities as comparable as reasonably possible under the circumstances to the Class A Common Units and (ii) preserve as far as reasonably possible under the circumstances the distribution, special allocation, conversion, and other rights set forth in this Agreement for the benefit of the LTIP Unitholders.

 

4.06          Capital Accounts . A separate capital account (a “ Capital Account ”) shall be established and maintained for each Partner in accordance with Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv). If (i) a new or existing Partner acquires an additional Partnership Interest in exchange for more than a de minimis Capital Contribution, (ii) the Partnership distributes to a Partner more than a de minimis amount of Partnership property as consideration for a Partnership Interest, (iii) the Partnership is liquidated within the meaning of Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(g) or (iv) the Partnership grants a Partnership Interest (other than a de minimis Partnership Interest) as consideration for the provision of services to or for the benefit of the Partnership to an existing Partner acting in a Partner capacity, or to a new Partner acting in a Partner capacity or in anticipation of being a Partner, the General Partner shall revalue the property of the Partnership to its fair market value (as determined by the General Partner, in its sole and absolute discretion, and taking into account Section 7701(g) of the Code) in accordance with Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(f); provided that (i) the issuance of any LTIP Unit shall be deemed to require a revaluation pursuant to this Section 4.06 and (ii) the General Partner may elect not to revalue the property of the Partnership in connection with the issuance of additional Partnership Units pursuant to Section 4.02 to the extent in determines, in its sole and absolute discretion, that revaluing the property of the Partnership in not necessary or appropriate to reflect the relative economic interests of the Partners. When the Partnership’s property is revalued by the General Partner, the Capital Accounts of the Partners shall be adjusted in accordance with Regulations Sections 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(f) and (g), which generally require such Capital Accounts to be adjusted to reflect the manner in which the unrealized gain or loss inherent in such property (that has not been reflected in the Capital Accounts previously) would be allocated among the Partners pursuant to Section 5.01 hereof if there were a taxable disposition of such property for its fair market value (as determined by the General Partner, in its sole and absolute discretion, and taking into account Section 7701(g) of the Code) on the date of the revaluation.

 

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4.07          Percentage Interests . If the number of outstanding Common Units or LTIP Units increases or decreases during a taxable year, each Partner’s Percentage Interest shall be adjusted by the General Partner effective as of the effective date of each such increase or decrease to a percentage equal to the number of Common Units or LTIP Units held by such Partner divided by the aggregate number of Common Units and LTIP Units outstanding after giving effect to such increase or decrease. If the Partners’ Percentage Interests are adjusted pursuant to this Section 4.07, the Profits and Losses for the taxable year in which the adjustment occurs shall be allocated between the part of the year ending on the day when the Partnership’s property is revalued by the General Partner and the part of the year beginning on the following day either (i) as if the taxable year had ended on the date of the adjustment or (ii) based on the number of days in each part. The General Partner, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall determine which method shall be used to allocate Profits and Losses for the taxable year in which the adjustment occurs. The allocation of Profits and Losses for the earlier part of the year shall be based on the Percentage Interests before adjustment, and the allocation of Profits and Losses for the later part shall be based on the adjusted Percentage Interests.

 

4.08          No Interest on Contributions . No Partner shall be entitled to interest on its Capital Contribution.

 

4.09          Return of Capital Contributions . No Partner shall be entitled to withdraw any part of its Capital Contribution or its Capital Account or to receive any distribution from the Partnership, except as specifically provided in this Agreement. Except as otherwise provided herein, there shall be no obligation to return to any Partner or withdrawn Partner any part of such Partner’s Capital Contribution for so long as the Partnership continues in existence.

 

4.10          No Third-Party Beneficiary . No creditor or other third party having dealings with the Partnership shall have the right to enforce the right or obligation of any Partner to make Capital Contributions or loans or to pursue any other right or remedy hereunder or at law or in equity, it being understood and agreed that the provisions of this Agreement, except as provided in Section 6.03(h), shall be solely for the benefit of, and may be enforced solely by, the parties to this Agreement and their respective successors and assigns. None of the rights or obligations of the Partners herein set forth to make Capital Contributions or loans to the Partnership shall be deemed an asset of the Partnership for any purpose by any creditor or other third party, nor may such rights or obligations be sold, transferred or assigned by the Partnership or pledged or encumbered by the Partnership to secure any debt or other obligation of the Partnership or of any of the Partners. In addition, it is the intent of the parties hereto that no distribution to any Limited Partner shall be deemed a return of money or other property in violation of the Act. However, if any court of competent jurisdiction holds that, notwithstanding the provisions of this Agreement, any Limited Partner is obligated to return such money or property, such obligation shall be the obligation of such Limited Partner and not of the General Partner. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, a deficit Capital Account of a Partner shall not be deemed to be a liability of such Partner nor an asset or property of the Partnership.

 

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ARTICLE V

 

PROFITS AND LOSSES; DISTRIBUTIONS

 

5.01          Allocation of Profit and Loss .

 

(a)            Profit . Profit of the Partnership for each fiscal year of the Partnership shall be allocated to the Partners in accordance with their respective Common Percentage Interests.

 

(b)            Loss . Loss of the Partnership for each fiscal year of the Partnership shall be allocated to the Partners in accordance with their respective Common Percentage Interests.

 

(c)            Minimum Gain Chargeback . Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, (i) any expense of the Partnership that is a “nonrecourse deduction” within the meaning of Regulations Section 1.704-2(b)(1) shall be allocated in accordance with the Partners’ respective Percentage Interests, (ii) any expense of the Partnership that is a “partner nonrecourse deduction” within the meaning of Regulations Section 1.704-2(i)(2) shall be allocated to the Partner that bears the “economic risk of loss” of such deduction in accordance with Regulations Section 1.704-2(i)(1), (iii) if there is a net decrease in Partnership Minimum Gain within the meaning of Regulations Section 1.704-2(f)(1) for any Partnership taxable year, then, subject to the exceptions set forth in Regulations Section 1.704-2(f)(2),(3), (4) and (5), items of gain and income shall be allocated among the Partners in accordance with Regulations Section 1.704-2(f) and the ordering rules contained in Regulations Section 1.704-2(j), and (iv) if there is a net decrease in Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain within the meaning of Regulations Section 1.704-2(i)(4) for any Partnership taxable year, then, subject to the exceptions set forth in Regulations Section 1.704(2)(g), items of gain and income shall be allocated among the Partners in accordance with Regulations Section 1.704-2(i)(4) and the ordering rules contained in Regulations Section 1.704-2(j). The manner in which it is reasonably expected that the deductions attributable to nonrecourse liabilities will be allocated for purposes of determining a Partner’s share of the nonrecourse liabilities of the Partnership within the meaning of Regulations Section 1.752-3(a)(3) shall be in accordance with a Partner’s Percentage Interest.

 

(d)            Qualified Income Offset . If a Partner receives in any taxable year an adjustment, allocation or distribution described in subparagraphs (4), (5) or (6) of Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d) that causes or increases a deficit balance in such Partner’s Capital Account that exceeds the sum of such Partner’s shares of Partnership Minimum Gain and Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain, as determined in accordance with Regulations Sections 1.704-2(g) and 1.704-2(i), such Partner shall be allocated specially for such taxable year (and, if necessary, later taxable years) items of income and gain in an amount and manner sufficient to eliminate such deficit Capital Account balance as quickly as possible as provided in Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d). After the occurrence of an allocation of income or gain to a Partner in accordance with this Section 5.01(d), to the extent permitted by Regulations Section 1.704-1(b), items of expense or loss shall be allocated to such Partner in an amount necessary to offset the income or gain previously allocated to such Partner under this Section 5.01(d).

 

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(e)            Capital Account Deficits . Loss shall not be allocated to a Limited Partner to the extent that such allocation would cause a deficit in such Partner’s Capital Account (after reduction to reflect the items described in Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(4), (5) and (6)) to exceed the sum of such Partner’s shares of Partnership Minimum Gain and Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain. Any Loss in excess of that limitation shall be allocated to the General Partner. After the occurrence of an allocation of Loss to the General Partner in accordance with this Section 5.01(e), to the extent permitted by Regulations Section 1.704-1(b), Profit first shall be allocated to the General Partner in an amount necessary to offset the Loss previously allocated to the General Partner under this Section 5.01(e).

 

(f)            Allocations Between Transferor and Transferee . If a Partner transfers any part or all of its Partnership Interest, the distributive shares of the various items of Profit and Loss allocable among the Partners during such fiscal year of the Partnership shall be allocated between the transferor and the transferee Partner either (i) as if the Partnership’s fiscal year had ended on the date of the transfer or (ii) based on the number of days of such fiscal year that each was a Partner without regard to the results of Partnership activities in the respective portions of such fiscal year in which the transferor and the transferee were Partners. The General Partner, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall determine which method shall be used to allocate the distributive shares of the various items of Profit and Loss between the transferor and the transferee Partner.

 

(g)            Special Allocations Regarding LTIP Units . Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 5.01(a) and (b) hereof, Liquidating Gains shall first be allocated to the LTIP Unitholders until their Economic Capital Account Balances, to the extent attributable to their ownership of LTIP Units, are equal to (i) the Class A Common Unit Economic Balance, multiplied by (ii) the number of their LTIP Units. For this purpose, “ Liquidating Gains ” means net capital gains realized in connection with the actual or hypothetical sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Partnership, including but not limited to net capital gain realized in connection with an adjustment to the value of Partnership assets under Section 704(b) of the Code. The “ Economic Capital Account Balances ” of the LTIP Unit holders will be equal to their Capital Account balances to the extent attributable to their ownership of LTIP Units. Similarly, the “ Class A Common Unit Economic Balance ” shall mean (i) the Capital Account balance of the General Partner, plus the amount of the General Partner’s share of any Partner Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain or Partnership Minimum Gain, in either case to the extent attributable to the General Partner’s ownership of Class A Common Units and computed on a hypothetical basis after taking into account all allocations through the date on which any allocation is made under this Section 5.01(g), divided by (ii) the number of the General Partner’s Class A Common Units. Any such allocations shall be made among the LTIP Unitholders in proportion to the amounts required to be allocated to each under this Section 5.01(g). The parties agree that the intent of this Section 5.01(g) is to make the Capital Account balance associated with each LTIP Unit to be economically equivalent to the Capital Account balance associated with the General Partner’s Class A Common Units (on a per-Unit basis).

 

(h)            Definition of Profit and Loss . “ Profit ” and “ Loss ” and any items of income, gain, expense or loss referred to in this Agreement shall be determined in accordance with federal income tax accounting principles, as modified by Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv), except that Profit and Loss shall not include items of income, gain and expense that are specially allocated pursuant to Sections 5.01(c), (d) or (e) hereof. All allocations of income, Profit, gain, Loss and expense (and all items contained therein) for federal income tax purposes shall be identical to all allocations of such items set forth in this Section 5.01, except as otherwise required by Section 704(c) of the Code and Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(4). With respect to properties acquired by the Partnership, the General Partner shall have the authority to elect the method to be used by the Partnership for allocating items of income, gain and expense as required by Section 704(c) of the Code with respect to such properties, and such election shall be binding on all Partners.

 

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(i)             Preferred Units . The General Partner shall amend this agreement from time to time to reflect the allocation of profit and loss in connection with priority distributions on any preferred units of limited partnership interest issued by the Partnership.

 

5.02          Distribution of Cash .

 

(a)            Subject to Sections 5.02(c), (d) and (e) hereof and to the terms of any Partnership Unit Designation, the Partnership shall distribute cash at such times and in such amounts as are determined by the General Partner in its sole and absolute discretion, to the Partners who are Partners on the Partnership Record Date with respect to such quarter (or other distribution period) in proportion with their respective Common Units on the Partnership Record Date.

 

(b)            In accordance with the terms of Section 4.04(a)(ii), the LTIP Unitholders shall be entitled to receive distributions in an amount per LTIP Unit equal to the Common Partnership Unit Distribution.

 

(c)             If a new or existing Partner acquires additional Partnership Units in exchange for a Capital Contribution on any date other than a Partnership Record Date (other than Partnership Units acquired by the General Partner in connection with the issuance of additional REIT Shares or Additional Securities), the cash distribution attributable to such additional Partnership Units relating to the Partnership Record Date next following the issuance of such additional Partnership Units shall be reduced in the proportion to (i) the number of days that such additional Partnership Units are held by such Partner bears to (ii) the number of days between such Partnership Record Date and the immediately preceding Partnership Record Date.

 

(d)            Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the General Partner is authorized to take any action that it determines to be necessary or appropriate to cause the Partnership to comply with any withholding requirements established under the Code or any other federal, state or local law including, without limitation, pursuant to Sections 1441, 1442, 1445, 1446, and 1471-1474 of the Code. To the extent that the Partnership is required to withhold and pay over to any taxing authority any amount resulting from the allocation or distribution of income to a Partner or assignee (including by reason of Section 1446 of the Code), either (i) if the actual amount to be distributed to the Partner (the “ Distributable Amount ”) equals or exceeds the Withheld Amount, the entire Distributable Amount shall be treated as a distribution of cash to such Partner, or (ii) if the Distributable Amount is less than the Withheld Amount, the excess of the Withheld Amount over the Distributable Amount shall be treated as a Partnership Loan from the Partnership to the Partner on the day the Partnership pays over such amount to a taxing authority. A Partnership Loan shall be repaid upon the demand of the Partnership or, alternatively, through withholding by the Partnership with respect to subsequent distributions to the applicable Partner or assignee. In the event that a Limited Partner fails to pay any amount owed to the Partnership with respect to the Partnership Loan within 15 days after demand for payment thereof is made by the Partnership on the Limited Partner, the General Partner, in its sole and absolute discretion, may elect to make the payment to the Partnership on behalf of such Defaulting Limited Partner. In such event, on the date of payment, the General Partner shall be deemed to have extended a General Partner Loan to the Defaulting Limited Partner in the amount of the payment made by the General Partner and shall succeed to all rights and remedies of the Partnership against the Defaulting Limited Partner as to that amount. Without limitation, the General Partner shall have the right to receive any distributions that otherwise would be made by the Partnership to the Defaulting Limited Partner until such time as the General Partner Loan has been paid in full, and any such distributions so received by the General Partner shall be treated as having been received by the Defaulting Limited Partner and immediately paid to the General Partner.

 

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Any amounts treated as a Partnership Loan or a General Partner Loan pursuant to this Section 5.02(d) shall bear interest at the lesser of (i) 300 basis points above the base rate on corporate loans at large United States money center commercial banks, as published from time to time in The Wall Street Journal or, if not so published, in any similar publication, or (ii) the maximum lawful rate of interest on such obligation, such interest to accrue from the date the Partnership or the General Partner, as applicable, is deemed to extend the loan until such loan is repaid in full.

 

(e)             In no event may a Partner receive a distribution of cash with respect to a Partnership Unit if such Partner is entitled to receive a cash dividend or other distribution of cash as the holder of record of a REIT Share for which all or part of such Partnership Unit has been or will be redeemed.

 

5.03          REIT Distribution Requirements . The General Partner shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Partnership to distribute amounts sufficient to enable the General Partner to pay distributions to its stockholders that will allow the General Partner to (i) meet its distribution requirement for qualification as a REIT as set forth in Section 857 of the Code and (ii) avoid any federal income or excise tax liability imposed by the Code, other than to the extent the General Partner elects to retain and pay income tax on its net capital gain.

 

5.04          No Right to Distributions in Kind . No Partner shall be entitled to demand property other than cash in connection with any distributions by the Partnership.

 

5.05          Limitations on Return of Capital Contributions . Notwithstanding any of the provisions of this Article V, no Partner shall have the right to receive, and the General Partner shall not have the right to make, a distribution that includes a return of all or part of a Partner’s Capital Contributions, unless after giving effect to the return of a Capital Contribution, the sum of all Partnership liabilities, other than the liabilities to a Partner for the return of his Capital Contribution, does not exceed the fair market value of the Partnership’s assets.

 

5.06          Distributions Upon Liquidation .

 

(a)             Upon liquidation of the Partnership, after payment of, or adequate provision for, debts and obligations of the Partnership, including any Partner loans, any remaining assets of the Partnership shall be distributed to all Partners with positive Capital Accounts in accordance with their respective positive Capital Account balances.

 

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(b)            For purposes of Section 5.06(a) hereof, the Capital Account of each Partner shall be determined after all adjustments made in accordance with Sections 5.01 and 5.02 hereof resulting from Partnership operations and from all sales and dispositions of all or any part of the Partnership’s assets.

 

(c)            Any distributions pursuant to this Section 5.06 shall be made by the end of the Partnership’s taxable year in which the liquidation occurs (or, if later, within 90 days after the date of the liquidation). To the extent deemed advisable by the General Partner, appropriate arrangements (including the use of a liquidating trust) may be made to assure that adequate funds are available to pay any contingent debts or obligations.

 

5.07          Substantial Economic Effect . It is the intent of the Partners that the allocations of Profit and Loss under this Agreement have substantial economic effect (or be consistent with the Partners’ interests in the Partnership in the case of the allocation of losses attributable to nonrecourse debt) within the meaning of Section 704(b) of the Code as interpreted by the Regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Article V and other relevant provisions of this Agreement shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with such intent.

 

ARTICLE VI

RIGHTS, OBLIGATIONS AND POWERS OF THE GENERAL PARTNER

 

6.01          Management of the Partnership .

 

(a)             Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, the General Partner shall have full, complete and exclusive discretion to manage and control the business of the Partnership for the purposes herein stated, and shall make all decisions affecting the business and assets of the Partnership. Subject to the restrictions specifically contained in this Agreement, the powers of the General Partner shall include, without limitation, the authority to take the following actions on behalf of the Partnership:

 

(i)           acquire, purchase, own, operate, lease and dispose of any real property and any other property or assets including, but not limited to, notes and mortgages that the General Partner determines are necessary or appropriate in the business of the Partnership;

 

(ii)          construct buildings and make other improvements on the properties owned or leased by the Partnership;

 

(iii)         authorize, issue, sell, redeem or otherwise purchase any Partnership Units or any securities of the Partnership (including secured and unsecured debt obligations of the Partnership, debt obligations of the Partnership convertible into any class or series of Partnership Units, or Rights relating to any class or series of Partnership Units);

 

(iv)         borrow or lend money for the Partnership, issue or receive evidences of indebtedness in connection therewith, refinance, increase the amount of, modify, amend or change the terms of, or extend the time for the payment of, any such indebtedness, and secure indebtedness by mortgage, deed of trust, pledge or other lien on the Partnership’s assets;

 

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(v)          pay, either directly or by reimbursement, all operating costs and general administrative expenses of the Partnership to third parties or to the General Partner or its Affiliates as set forth in this Agreement;

 

(vi)         guarantee or become a co-maker of indebtedness of any Subsidiary of the General Partner or the Partnership, refinance, increase the amount of, modify, amend or change the terms of, or extend the time for the payment of, any such guarantee or indebtedness, and secure such guarantee or indebtedness by mortgage, deed of trust, pledge or other lien on the Partnership’s assets;

 

(vii)        use assets of the Partnership (including, without limitation, cash on hand) for any purpose consistent with this Agreement, including, without limitation, payment, either directly or by reimbursement, of all operating costs and general and administrative expenses of the General Partner, the Partnership or any Subsidiary of either, to third parties or to the General Partner as set forth in this Agreement;

 

(viii)       lease all or any portion of any of the Partnership’s assets, whether or not the terms of such leases extend beyond the termination date of the Partnership and whether or not any portion of the Partnership’s assets so leased are to be occupied by the lessee, or, in turn, subleased in whole or in part to others, for such consideration and on such terms as the General Partner may determine and to further lease property from third parties, including ground leases;

 

(ix)          prosecute, defend, arbitrate or compromise any and all claims or liabilities in favor of or against the Partnership, on such terms and in such manner as the General Partner may determine, and similarly prosecute, settle or defend litigation with respect to the Partners, the Partnership or the Partnership’s assets;

 

(x)           file applications, communicate and otherwise deal with any and all governmental agencies having jurisdiction over, or in any way affecting, the Partnership’s assets or any other aspect of the Partnership’s business;

 

(xi)          make or revoke any election permitted or required of the Partnership by any taxing authority;

 

(xii)         maintain such insurance coverage for public liability, fire and casualty, and any and all other insurance for the protection of the Partnership, for the conservation of Partnership assets, or for any other purpose convenient or beneficial to the Partnership, in such amounts and such types, as it shall determine from time to time;

 

(xiii)        determine whether or not to apply any insurance proceeds for any property to the restoration of such property or to distribute the same;

 

(xiv)        establish one or more divisions of the Partnership, hire and dismiss employees of the Partnership or any division of the Partnership, and retain legal counsel, accountants, consultants, real estate brokers and such other persons as the General Partner may deem necessary or appropriate in connection with the Partnership business and pay therefor such reasonable remuneration as the General Partner may deem reasonable and proper;

 

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(xv)        retain other services of any kind or nature in connection with the Partnership’s business, and pay therefor such remuneration as the General Partner may deem reasonable and proper;

 

(xvi)       negotiate and conclude agreements on behalf of the Partnership with respect to any of the rights, powers and authority conferred upon the General Partner;

 

(xvii)      maintain accurate accounting records and file all federal, state and local income tax returns on behalf of the Partnership;

 

(xviii)     distribute Partnership cash or other Partnership assets in accordance with this Agreement;

 

(xix)        form or acquire an interest in, and contribute property to, any further limited or general partnerships, joint ventures or other relationships that it deems desirable (including, without limitation, the acquisition of interests in, and the contributions of property to, its Subsidiaries and any other Person in which it has an equity interest from time to time);

 

(xx)         establish Partnership reserves for working capital, capital expenditures, contingent liabilities or any other valid Partnership purpose;

 

(xxi)        merge, consolidate or combine the Partnership with or into another Person;

 

(xxii)       enter into and perform obligations under underwriting or other agreements in connection with issuances of securities by the Partnership or the General Partner or any affiliate thereof;

 

(xxiii)      do any and all acts and things necessary or prudent to ensure that the Partnership will not be classified as a “publicly traded partnership” taxable as a corporation under Section 7704 of the Code or an “investment company” or a subsidiary of an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940; and

 

(xxiv)      take such other action, execute, acknowledge, swear to or deliver such other documents and instruments, and perform any and all other acts that the General Partner deems necessary or appropriate for the formation, continuation and conduct of the business and affairs of the Partnership (including, without limitation, all actions consistent with allowing the General Partner at all times to qualify as a REIT unless the General Partner voluntarily terminates or revokes its REIT status) and to possess and enjoy all of the rights and powers of a general partner as provided by the Act.

 

(b)            Except as otherwise provided herein, to the extent the duties of the General Partner require expenditures of funds to be paid to third parties, the General Partner shall not have any obligations hereunder except to the extent that Partnership funds are reasonably available to it for the performance of such duties, and nothing herein contained shall be deemed to authorize or require the General Partner, in its capacity as such, to expend its individual funds for payment to third parties or to undertake any individual liability or obligation on behalf of the Partnership.

 

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6.02          Delegation of Authority . The General Partner may delegate any or all of its powers, rights and obligations hereunder, and may appoint, employ, contract or otherwise deal with any Person for the transaction of the business of the Partnership, which Person may, under supervision of the General Partner, perform any acts or services for the Partnership as the General Partner may approve.

 

6.03          Indemnification and Exculpation of Indemnitees .

 

(a)            The Partnership shall indemnify an Indemnitee from and against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities, joint or several, expenses (including reasonable legal fees and expenses), judgments, fines, settlements, and other amounts arising from any and all claims, demands, actions, suits or proceedings, civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, that relate to the operations of the Partnership as set forth in this Agreement in which any Indemnitee may be involved, or is threatened to be involved, as a party or otherwise, unless it is established that: (i) the act or omission of the Indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and either was committed in bad faith or was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty; (ii) the Indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services; or (iii) in the case of any criminal proceeding, the Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful. The termination of any proceeding by judgment, order or settlement does not create a presumption that the Indemnitee did not meet the requisite standard of conduct set forth in this Section 6.03(a). The termination of any proceeding by conviction or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or an entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, creates a rebuttable presumption that the Indemnitee acted in a manner contrary to that specified in this Section 6.03(a). Any indemnification pursuant to this Section 6.03 shall be made only out of the assets of the Partnership.

 

(b)            The Partnership shall reimburse an Indemnitee for reasonable expenses incurred by an Indemnitee who is a party to a proceeding in advance of the final disposition of the proceeding upon receipt by the Partnership of (i) a written affirmation by the Indemnitee of the Indemnitee’s good faith belief that the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification by the Partnership as authorized in this Section 6.03 has been met, and (ii) a written undertaking by or on behalf of the Indemnitee to repay the amount if it shall ultimately be determined that the standard of conduct has not been met.

 

(c)            The indemnification provided by this Section 6.03 shall be in addition to any other rights to which an Indemnitee or any other Person may be entitled under any agreement, pursuant to any vote of the Partners, as a matter of law or otherwise, and shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to serve in such capacity.

 

(d)            The Partnership may purchase and maintain insurance, as an expense of the Partnership, on behalf of the Indemnitees and such other Persons as the General Partner shall determine, against any liability that may be asserted against or expenses that may be incurred by such Person in connection with the Partnership’s activities, regardless of whether the Partnership would have the power to indemnify such Person against such liability under the provisions of this Agreement.

 

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(e)            For purposes of this Section 6.03, the Partnership shall be deemed to have requested an Indemnitee to serve as fiduciary of an employee benefit plan whenever the performance by the Indemnitee of its duties to the Partnership also imposes duties on, or otherwise involves services by, the Indemnitee to the plan or participants or beneficiaries of the plan; excise taxes assessed on an Indemnitee with respect to an employee benefit plan pursuant to applicable law shall constitute fines within the meaning of this Section 6.03; and actions taken or omitted by the Indemnitee with respect to an employee benefit plan in the performance of its duties for a purpose reasonably believed by the Indemnitee to be in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries of the plan shall be deemed to be for a purpose that is not opposed to the best interests of the Partnership.

 

(f)            In no event may an Indemnitee subject the Limited Partners to personal liability by reason of the indemnification provisions set forth in this Agreement.

 

(g)            An Indemnitee shall not be denied indemnification in whole or in part under this Section 6.03 because the Indemnitee had an interest in the transaction with respect to which the indemnification applies if the transaction was otherwise permitted by the terms of this Agreement.

 

(h)            The provisions of this Section 6.03 are for the benefit of the Indemnitees, their heirs, successors, assigns and administrators and shall not be deemed to create any rights for the benefit of any other Persons.

 

(i)            Any amendment, modification or repeal of this Section 6.03 or any provision hereof shall be prospective only and shall not in any way affect the indemnification of an Indemnitee by the Partnership under this Section 6.03 as in effect immediately prior to such amendment, modification or repeal with respect to matters occurring, in whole or in part, prior to such amendment, modification or repeal, regardless of when claims relating to such matters may arise or be asserted.

 

6.04          Liability of the General Partner .

 

(a)            Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this Agreement, neither the General Partner, nor any of its directors, officers, agents or employees shall be liable for monetary damages to the Partnership or any Partners for losses sustained or liabilities incurred as a result of errors in judgment or mistakes of fact or law or of any act or omission if any such party acted in good faith. The General Partner shall not be in breach of any duty that the General Partner may owe to the Limited Partners or the Partnership or any other Persons under this Agreement or of any duty stated or implied by law or equity provided the General Partner, acting in good faith, abides by the terms of this Agreement.

 

(b)            The Limited Partners expressly acknowledge that the General Partner is acting on behalf of the Partnership, the Limited Partners and the General Partner’s stockholders collectively, that the General Partner is under no obligation to consider the separate interests of the Limited Partners (including, without limitation, the tax consequences to Limited Partners or the tax consequences of some, but not all, of the Limited Partners) in deciding whether to cause the Partnership to take (or decline to take) any actions. In the event of a conflict between the interests of the stockholders of the General Partner on the one hand and the Limited Partners on the other, the General Partner shall endeavor in good faith to resolve the conflict in a manner not adverse to either the stockholders of the General Partner or the Limited Partners; provided , however , that for so long as the General Partner owns a controlling interest in the Partnership, any such conflict that the General Partner, in its sole and absolute discretion, determines cannot be resolved in a manner not adverse to either the stockholders of the General Partner or the Limited Partners shall be resolved in favor of the stockholders of the General Partner. The General Partner shall not be liable for monetary damages for losses sustained, liabilities incurred or benefits not derived by the Limited Partners in connection with such decisions.

 

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(c)           Subject to its obligations and duties as General Partner set forth in Section 6.01 hereof, the General Partner may exercise any of the powers granted to it under this Agreement and perform any of the duties imposed upon it hereunder either directly or by or through its agents. The General Partner shall not be responsible for any misconduct or negligence on the part of any such agent appointed by it in good faith.

 

(d)           Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement or the Act, any action of the General Partner on behalf of the Partnership or any decision of the General Partner to refrain from acting on behalf of the Partnership, undertaken in the good faith belief that such action or omission is necessary or advisable in order (i) to protect the ability of the General Partner to continue to qualify as a REIT or (ii) to prevent the General Partner from incurring any taxes under Section 857, Section 4981 or any other provision of the Code, is expressly authorized under this Agreement and is deemed approved by all of the Limited Partners.

 

(e)           Any amendment, modification or repeal of this Section 6.04 or any provision hereof shall be prospective only and shall not in any way affect the limitations on the General Partner’s or any of its officers’, directors’, agents’ or employees’ liability to the Partnership and the Limited Partners under this Section 6.04 as in effect immediately prior to such amendment, modification or repeal with respect to matters occurring, in whole or in part, prior to such amendment, modification or repeal, regardless of when claims relating to such matters may arise or be asserted.

 

6.05          Partnership Obligations .

 

(a)           Except as provided in this Section 6.05 and elsewhere in this Agreement (including the provisions of Articles V and VI hereof regarding distributions, payments and allocations to which it may be entitled), the General Partner shall not be compensated for its services as general partner of the Partnership.

 

(b)           All Administrative Expenses shall be obligations of the Partnership, and the General Partner shall be entitled to reimbursement by the Partnership for any expenditure (including Administrative Expenses) incurred by it on behalf of the Partnership that shall be made other than out of the funds of the Partnership. All reimbursements hereunder shall be characterized for federal income tax purposes as expenses of the Partnership incurred on its behalf, and not as expenses of the General Partner.

 

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6.06          Outside Activities . Subject to Section 6.08 hereof, the Articles and any agreements entered into by the General Partner or its Affiliates with the Partnership or a Subsidiary, any officer, director, employee, agent, trustee, Affiliate or stockholder of the General Partner, the General Partner shall be entitled to and may have business interests and engage in business activities in addition to those relating to the Partnership, including business interests and activities substantially similar or identical to those of the Partnership. Neither the Partnership nor any of the Limited Partners shall have any rights by virtue of this Agreement in any such business ventures, interest or activities. None of the Limited Partners nor any other Person shall have any rights by virtue of this Agreement or the partnership relationship established hereby in any such business ventures, interests or activities, and the General Partner shall have no obligation pursuant to this Agreement to offer any interest in any such business ventures, interests and activities to the Partnership or any Limited Partner, even if such opportunity is of a character that, if presented to the Partnership or any Limited Partner, could be taken by such Person.

 

6.07          Employment or Retention of Affiliates .

 

(a)            Any Affiliate of the General Partner may be employed or retained by the Partnership and may otherwise deal with the Partnership (whether as a buyer, lessor, lessee, manager, furnisher of goods or services, broker, agent, lender or otherwise) and may receive from the Partnership any compensation, price or other payment therefor that the General Partner determines to be fair and reasonable.

 

(b)            The Partnership may lend or contribute to its Subsidiaries or other Persons in which it has an equity investment, and such Persons may borrow funds from the Partnership, on terms and conditions established in the sole and absolute discretion of the General Partner. The foregoing authority shall not create any right or benefit in favor of any Subsidiary or any other Person.

 

(c)            The Partnership may transfer assets to joint ventures, other partnerships, corporations or other business entities in which it is or thereby becomes a participant upon such terms and subject to such conditions as the General Partner deems are consistent with this Agreement and applicable law.

 

6.08          General Partner Activities . The General Partner agrees that, generally, all business activities of the General Partner, including activities pertaining to the acquisition, development, ownership of or investment in real property or other property, shall be conducted through the Partnership or one or more Subsidiaries of the Partnership; provided , however , that the General Partner may make direct acquisitions or undertake business activities if such acquisitions or activities are made in connection with the issuance of Additional Securities by the General Partner or the business activity has been approved by a majority of the Independent Directors. If, at any time, the General Partner acquires material assets (other than Partnership Units or other assets on behalf of the Partnership) without transferring such assets to the Partnership, the definition of “REIT Shares Amount” may be adjusted, as reasonably determined by the General Partner, to reflect only the fair market value of a REIT Share attributable to the General Partner’s Partnership Units and other assets held on behalf of the Partnership.

 

6.09          Title to Partnership Assets . Title to Partnership assets, whether real, personal or mixed and whether tangible or intangible, shall be deemed to be owned by the Partnership as an entity, and no Partner, individually or collectively, shall have any ownership interest in such Partnership assets or any portion thereof. Title to any or all of the Partnership assets may be held in the name of the Partnership, the General Partner or one or more nominees, as the General Partner may determine, including Affiliates of the General Partner. The General Partner hereby declares and warrants that any Partnership assets for which legal title is held in the name of the General Partner or any nominee or Affiliate of the General Partner shall be held by the General Partner for the use and benefit of the Partnership in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement; provided , however , that the General Partner shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause beneficial and record title to such assets to be vested in the Partnership as soon as reasonably practicable. All Partnership assets shall be recorded as the property of the Partnership in its books and records, irrespective of the name in which legal title to such Partnership assets is held.

 

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ARTICLE VII

CHANGES IN GENERAL PARTNER

 

7.01          Transfer of the General Partner’s Partnership Interest .

 

(a)            The General Partner shall not transfer all or any portion of its General Partnership Interests, and the General Partner shall not withdraw as General Partner, except as provided in or in connection with a transaction contemplated by Sections 7.01(c), (d) or (e) hereof.

 

(b)            The General Partner agrees that its General Partnership Interest will at all times be in the aggregate at least 0.1%.

 

(c)             Except as otherwise provided in Section 7.01(d) or (e) hereof, the General Partner shall not engage in any merger, consolidation or other combination with or into another Person or sale of all or substantially all of its assets (other than in connection with a change in the General Partner’s state of incorporation or organizational form), in each case which results in a Change of Control of the General Partner (a “ Transaction ”), unless at least one of the following conditions is met:

 

(i)           the consent of a Majority in Interest (excluding, for purposes of determining a Majority in Interest, Partnership Interests held by the General Partner or any Subsidiary of the General Partner) is obtained;

 

(ii)          as a result of such Transaction, all Limited Partners (other than the General Partner and any Subsidiary of the General Partner, and, in the case of LTIP Unitholders, subject to the terms of any applicable Equity Incentive Plan or Vesting Agreement) will receive, or have the right to receive, for each Partnership Unit an amount of cash, securities or other property equal or substantially equivalent in value, as determined by the General Partner in good faith, to the product of the Conversion Factor and the greatest amount of cash, securities or other property paid in the Transaction to a holder of one REIT Share in consideration of one REIT Share, provided that if, in connection with such Transaction, a purchase, tender or exchange offer (“ Offer ”) shall have been made to and accepted by the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding REIT Shares, each holder of Partnership Units (other than the General Partner and any Subsidiary of the General Partner) shall be given the option to exchange its Partnership Units for an amount of cash, securities or other property equal or substantially equivalent in value, as determined by the General Partner in good faith, to the greatest amount of cash, securities or other property that such Limited Partner would have received had it (A) exercised its Common Unit Redemption Right pursuant to Section 8.04 hereof and (B) sold, tendered or exchanged pursuant to the Offer the REIT Shares Amount that would be receivable upon exercise of the Common Unit Redemption Right immediately prior to the expiration of the Offer; or

 

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(iii)         the General Partner is the surviving entity in the Transaction and either (A) the holders of REIT Shares do not receive cash, securities or other property in the Transaction or (B) all Limited Partners (other than the General Partner or any Subsidiary of the General Partner, and, in the case of LTIP Unitholders, subject to the terms of any applicable Equity Incentive Plan or Vesting Agreement) receive for each Partnership Unit an amount of cash, securities or other property equal or substantially equivalent in value, as determined by the General Partner in good faith, to the product of the Conversion Factor and the greatest amount of cash, securities or other property (expressed as an amount per REIT Share) received in the Transaction by any holder of REIT Shares in respect of such holder’s REIT Shares.

 

(d)            Notwithstanding Section 7.01(c) hereof, the General Partner may merge with or into or consolidate with another entity if immediately after such merger or consolidation (i) substantially all of the assets of the successor or surviving entity (the “ Survivor ”), other than Partnership Units held by the General Partner, are contributed, directly or indirectly, to the Partnership as a Capital Contribution in exchange for Partnership Units, or for economically equivalent partnership interests issued by a Subsidiary Partnership established at the direction of the Board of Directors, with a fair market value equal to the value of the assets so contributed as determined by the Survivor in good faith and (ii) the Survivor expressly agrees to assume all obligations of the General Partner hereunder. Upon such contribution and assumption, the Survivor shall have the right and duty to amend this Agreement as set forth in this Section 7.01(d). The Survivor shall in good faith arrive at a new method for the calculation of the Cash Amount, the REIT Shares Amount and Conversion Factor for a Partnership Unit after any such merger or consolidation so as to approximate the existing method for such calculation as closely as reasonably possible. Such calculation shall take into account, among other things, the kind and amount of securities, cash and other property that was receivable upon such merger or consolidation by a holder of REIT Shares or options, warrants or other rights relating thereto, and which a holder of Partnership Units could have acquired had such Partnership Units been redeemed in exchange for the REIT Shares Amount immediately prior to such merger or consolidation. Such amendment to this Agreement shall provide for adjustment to such method of calculation, which shall be as nearly equivalent as may be practicable to the adjustments provided for with respect to the Conversion Factor. The Survivor also shall in good faith modify the definition of REIT Shares and make such amendments to Section 8.04 hereof so as to approximate the existing rights and obligations set forth in Section 8.04 hereof as closely as reasonably possible. The above provisions of this Section 7.01(d) shall similarly apply to successive mergers or consolidations permitted hereunder.

 

In respect of any transaction described in the preceding paragraph, the General Partner shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to seek to structure such transaction to avoid causing the Limited Partners (other than the General Partner or any Subsidiary) to recognize a gain for federal income tax purposes by virtue of the occurrence of or their participation in such transaction, provided such efforts are consistent with and subject in all respects to the exercise of the Board of Directors’ fiduciary duties to the stockholders of the General Partner under applicable law.

 

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(e)            Notwithstanding anything in this Article VII,

 

(i)           The General Partner may transfer all or any portion of its General Partnership Interest to (A) any wholly owned Subsidiary of the General Partner or (B) the owner of all of the ownership interests of the General Partner, and following a transfer of all of its General Partnership Interest, may withdraw as General Partner; and

 

(ii)          the General Partner may engage in a transaction required by law or by the rules of any national securities exchange or over-the-counter interdealer quotation system on which the REIT Shares are listed or traded.

 

7.02          Admission of a Substitute or Additional General Partner . A Person shall be admitted as a substitute or additional General Partner of the Partnership only if the following terms and conditions are satisfied:

 

(a)            the Person to be admitted as a substitute or additional General Partner shall have accepted and agreed to be bound by all the terms and provisions of this Agreement by executing a counterpart thereof and such other documents or instruments as may be required or appropriate in order to effect the admission of such Person as a General Partner, and a certificate evidencing the admission of such Person as a General Partner shall have been filed for recordation and all other actions required by Section 2.05 hereof in connection with such admission shall have been performed;

 

(b)            if the Person to be admitted as a substitute or additional General Partner is a corporation or a partnership, it shall have provided the Partnership with evidence satisfactory to counsel for the Partnership of such Person’s authority to become a General Partner and to be bound by the terms and provisions of this Agreement; and

 

(c)            counsel for the Partnership shall have rendered an opinion (relying on such opinions from other counsel as may be necessary) that the admission of the Person to be admitted as a substitute or additional General Partner is in conformity with the Act, that none of the actions taken in connection with the admission of such Person as a substitute or additional General Partner will cause (i) the Partnership to be classified other than as a partnership for federal income tax purposes, or (ii) the loss of any Limited Partner’s limited liability.

 

7.03          Effect of Bankruptcy, Withdrawal, Death or Dissolution of General Partner .

 

(a)            Upon the occurrence of an Event of Bankruptcy as to the General Partner (and its removal pursuant to Section 7.04(a) hereof) or the death, withdrawal, removal or dissolution of the General Partner (except that, if the General Partner is on the date of such occurrence a partnership, the withdrawal, death, dissolution, Event of Bankruptcy as to, or removal of a partner in, such partnership shall be deemed not to be a dissolution of the General Partner if the business of the General Partner is continued by the remaining partner or partners), the Partnership shall be dissolved and terminated unless the Partnership is continued pursuant to Section 7.03(b) hereof. The merger of the General Partner with or into any entity that is admitted as a substitute or successor General Partner pursuant to Section 7.02 hereof shall not be deemed to be the withdrawal, dissolution or removal of the General Partner.

 

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(b)            Following the occurrence of an Event of Bankruptcy as to the General Partner (and its removal pursuant to Section 7.04(a) hereof) or the death, withdrawal, removal or dissolution of the General Partner (except that, if the General Partner is on the date of such occurrence a partnership, the withdrawal, death, dissolution, Event of Bankruptcy as to, or removal of a partner in, such partnership shall be deemed not to be a dissolution of the General Partner if the business of such General Partner is continued by the remaining partner or partners), the Limited Partners, within 90 days after such occurrence, may elect to continue the business of the Partnership for the balance of the term specified in Section 2.04 hereof by selecting, subject to Section 7.02 hereof and any other provisions of this Agreement, a substitute General Partner by consent of a Majority in Interest. If the Limited Partners elect to continue the business of the Partnership and admit a substitute General Partner, the relationship with the Partners and of any Person who has acquired an interest of a Partner in the Partnership shall be governed by this Agreement.

 

7.04          Removal of General Partner .

 

(a)            Upon the occurrence of an Event of Bankruptcy as to, or the dissolution of, the General Partner, the General Partner shall be deemed to be removed automatically; provided , however , that if the General Partner is on the date of such occurrence a partnership, the withdrawal, death, dissolution, Event of Bankruptcy as to, or removal of, a partner in such partnership shall be deemed not to be a dissolution of the General Partner if the business of the General Partner is continued by the remaining partner or partners. The Limited Partners may not remove the General Partner, with or without cause.

 

(b)            If the General Partner has been removed pursuant to this Section 7.04 and the Partnership is continued pursuant to Section 7.03 hereof, the General Partner shall promptly transfer and assign its General Partnership Interest in the Partnership to the substitute General Partner approved by a Majority in Interest in accordance with Section 7.03(b) hereof and otherwise be admitted to the Partnership in accordance with Section 7.02 hereof. At the time of assignment, the removed General Partner shall be entitled to receive from the substitute General Partner the fair market value of the General Partnership Interest of such removed General Partner. Such fair market value shall be determined by an appraiser mutually agreed upon by the General Partner and a Majority in Interest (excluding the General Partner and any Subsidiary of the General Partner) within ten days following the removal of the General Partner. In the event that the parties are unable to agree upon an appraiser, the removed General Partner and a Majority in Interest (excluding, for purposes of determining a Majority in Interest, Partnership Interests held by the General Partner and any Subsidiary of the General Partner) each shall select an appraiser. Each such appraiser shall complete an appraisal of the fair market value of the removed General Partner’s General Partnership Interest within 30 days of the General Partner’s removal, and the fair market value of the removed General Partner’s General Partnership Interest shall be the average of the two appraisals; provided , however , that if the higher appraisal exceeds the lower appraisal by more than 20% of the amount of the lower appraisal, the two appraisers, no later than 40 days after the removal of the General Partner, shall select a third appraiser who shall complete an appraisal of the fair market value of the removed General Partner’s General Partnership Interest no later than 60 days after the removal of the General Partner. In such case, the fair market value of the removed General Partner’s General Partnership Interest shall be the average of the two appraisals closest in dollar value.

 

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(c)            The General Partnership Interest of a removed General Partner, during the time after default until transfer under Section 7.04(b) hereof, shall be converted to that of a special Limited Partner; provided , however , such removed General Partner shall not have any rights to participate in the management and affairs of the Partnership, and shall not be entitled to any portion of the income, expense, profit, gain or loss allocations or cash distributions allocable or payable, as the case may be, to the Limited Partners. Instead, such removed General Partner shall receive and be entitled only to retain distributions or allocations of such items that it would have been entitled to receive in its capacity as General Partner, until the transfer is effective pursuant to Section 7.04(b) hereof.

 

(d)            All Partners shall have given and hereby do give such consents, shall take such actions and shall execute such documents as shall be legally necessary and sufficient to effect all the foregoing provisions of this Section 7.04.

 

ARTICLE VIII

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE LIMITED PARTNERS

 

8.01          Management of the Partnership . The Limited Partners shall not participate in the management or control of Partnership business nor shall they transact any business for the Partnership, nor shall they have the power to sign for or bind the Partnership, such powers being vested solely and exclusively in the General Partner. The Limited Partners covenant and agree not to hold themselves out in a manner that could reasonably be considered in contravention of the terms hereof by any third party.

 

8.02          Power of Attorney . Each Limited Partner by entry into this Agreement through execution, execution by power of attorney or other consent, hereby irrevocably appoints the General Partner its true and lawful attorney-in-fact, who may act for each Limited Partner and in its name, place and stead, and for its use and benefit, to sign, acknowledge, swear to, deliver, file or record, at the appropriate public offices, any and all documents, certificates and instruments (including, without limitation, this Agreement and all amendments or restatements thereof) as may be deemed necessary or desirable by the General Partner to carry out fully the provisions of this Agreement and the Act in accordance with their terms, which power of attorney is coupled with an interest and shall survive the death, dissolution or legal incapacity of the Limited Partner, or the transfer by the Limited Partner of any part or all of its Partnership Interest.

 

8.03          Limitation on Liability of Limited Partners . No Limited Partner shall be liable for any debts, liabilities, contracts or obligations of the Partnership. A Limited Partner shall be liable to the Partnership only to make payments of its Capital Contribution, if any, as and when due hereunder. After its Capital Contribution is fully paid, no Limited Partner shall, except as otherwise required by the Act, be required to make any further Capital Contributions or other payments or lend any funds to the Partnership.

 

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8.04          Common Unit Redemption Right .

 

(a)            Subject to Sections 8.04(b), (c), (d), (e) and (f) hereof and the provisions of any agreements between the Partnership and one or more Limited Partners with respect to Common Units (including any LTIP Units that are converted into Class A Common Units) held by them, each Limited Partner (other than the General Partner or any Subsidiary of the General Partner) shall have the right (the “ Common Unit Redemption Right ”) to require the Partnership to redeem on a Specified Redemption Date all or a portion of the Common Units held by such Limited Partner at a redemption price equal to and in the form of the Common Redemption Amount to be paid by the Partnership, provided that (i) Common Units outstanding as of the Original Date shall have been outstanding for at least one year (or such lesser time as determined by the General Partner in its sole and absolute discretion) and (ii) Common Units issued after the Original Date shall be subject to any restriction agreed to in writing between the Redeeming Limited Partner and the General Partner. The Common Unit Redemption Right shall be exercised pursuant to a Notice of Exercise of Redemption Right in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B delivered to the Partnership (with a copy to the General Partner) by the Limited Partner who is exercising the Common Unit Redemption Right (the “ Redeeming Limited Partner ”) and such notice shall be irrevocable unless otherwise agreed upon by the General Partner. In such event, the Partnership shall deliver the Cash Amount to the Redeeming Limited Partner. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Partnership shall not be obligated to satisfy such Common Unit Redemption Right if the General Partner elects to purchase the Common Units subject to the Notice of Redemption pursuant to Section 8.04(b) hereof. No Limited Partner may deliver more than two Notices of Redemption during each calendar year unless otherwise agreed by the General Partner. A Limited Partner may not exercise the Common Unit Redemption Right for less than one thousand (1,000) Common Units or, if such Limited Partner holds less than one thousand (1,000) Common Units, all of the Common Units held by such Limited Partner. The Redeeming Limited Partner shall have no right, with respect to any Common Units so redeemed, to receive any distribution paid with respect to Common Units if the record date for such distribution is on or after the Specified Redemption Date.

 

(b)            Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8.04(a) hereof, if a Limited Partner exercises the Common Unit Redemption Right by delivering to the Partnership a Notice of Redemption, then the Partnership may, in its sole and absolute discretion, elect to cause the General Partner to purchase directly and acquire some or all of, and in such event the General Partner agrees to purchase and acquire, such Common Units by paying to the Redeeming Limited Partner either the Cash Amount or the REIT Shares Amount, as elected by the General Partner (in its sole and absolute discretion) on the Specified Redemption Date, whereupon the General Partner shall acquire the Common Units offered for redemption by the Redeeming Limited Partner and shall be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as the owner of such Common Units.

 

In the event the General Partner purchases Common Units with respect to the exercise of a Common Unit Redemption Right, the Partnership shall have no obligation to pay any amount to the Redeeming Limited Partner with respect to such Redeeming Limited Partner’s exercise of such Common Unit Redemption Right, and each of the Redeeming Limited Partner, the Partnership and the General Partner shall treat the transaction between the General Partner and the Redeeming Limited Partner for federal income tax purposes as a sale of the Redeeming Limited Partner’s Common Units to the General Partner. Each Redeeming Limited Partner agrees to execute such documents as the General Partner may reasonably require in connection with the issuance of REIT Shares upon exercise of the Common Unit Redemption Right.

 

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Each Redeeming Limited Partner covenants and agrees that all Common Units subject to a Notice of Redemption will be delivered to the Partnership or the General Partner free and clear of all liens, claims and encumbrances whatsoever and should any such liens, claims or encumbrances exist or arise with respect to such Common Units, neither the Partnership nor the General Partner shall be under any obligation to redeem or acquire such Common Units.

 

(c)            Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 8.04(a) and 8.04(b) hereof, a Limited Partner shall not be entitled to exercise the Common Unit Redemption Right if the delivery of REIT Shares to such Limited Partner on the Specified Redemption Date by the General Partner pursuant to Section 8.04(b) hereof (regardless of whether or not the General Partner would in fact purchase the Common Units pursuant to Section 8.04(b) hereof) would (i) result in such Limited Partner or any other Person (as defined in the Articles) owning, directly or indirectly, REIT Shares in excess of the Stock Ownership Limit or any Excepted Holder Limit (each as defined in the Articles) and calculated in accordance therewith, except as provided in the Articles, (ii) result in REIT Shares being owned by fewer than 100 persons (determined without reference to any rules of attribution), (iii) result in the General Partner being “closely held” within the meaning of Section 856(h) of the Code, (iv) cause the General Partner to own, actually or constructively, 10% or more of the ownership interests in a tenant (other than a TRS) of the General Partner’s, the Partnership’s or a Subsidiary Partnership’s real property, within the meaning of Section 856(d)(2)(B) of the Code, (v) otherwise cause the General Partner to fail to qualify as a REIT under the Code, or (vi) cause the acquisition of REIT Shares by such Limited Partner to be “integrated” with any other distribution of REIT Shares or Common Units for purposes of complying with the registration provisions of the Securities Act. The General Partner, in its sole and absolute discretion, may waive the restriction on redemption set forth in this Section 8.04(c).

 

(d)            Any Cash Amount to be paid to a Redeeming Limited Partner pursuant to this Section 8.04 shall be paid on the Specified Redemption Date; provided , however , that the General Partner may elect to cause the Specified Redemption Date to be delayed for up to an additional 90 days to the extent required for the General Partner to cause additional REIT Shares to be issued to provide financing to be used to make such payment of the Cash Amount and may also delay such Specified Redemption Date to the extent necessary to effect compliance with applicable requirements of the law. Any REIT Shares Amount to be paid to a Redeeming Limited Partner pursuant to this Section 8.04 shall be paid on the Specified Redemption Date; provided , however , that the General Partner may elect to cause the Specified Redemption Date to be delayed to the extent necessary to effect compliance with applicable requirements of the law. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the General Partner agrees to use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause the closing of the acquisition of redeemed Common Units hereunder to occur as quickly as reasonably possible.

 

(e)            Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the General Partner is authorized to take any action that it determines to be necessary or appropriate to cause the Partnership to comply with any withholding requirements established under the Code or any other federal, state, local or foreign law that apply upon a Redeeming Limited Partner’s exercise of the Common Unit Redemption Right. If a Redeeming Limited Partner believes that it is exempt from such withholding upon the exercise of the Common Unit Redemption Right, such Partner must furnish the General Partner with a FIRPTA Certificate in the form attached hereto as Exhibit C and any similar forms or certificates required to avoid or reduce the withholding under federal, state, local or foreign law or such other form as the General Partner may reasonably request. If the Partnership or the General Partner is required to withhold and pay over to any taxing authority any amount upon a Redeeming Limited Partner’s exercise of the Common Unit Redemption Right and if the Common Redemption Amount equals or exceeds the Withheld Amount, the Withheld Amount shall be treated as an amount received by such Partner in redemption of its Common Units. If, however, the Common Redemption Amount is less than the Withheld Amount, the Redeeming Limited Partner shall not receive any portion of the Common Redemption Amount, the Common Redemption Amount shall be treated as an amount received by such Partner in redemption of its Common Units, and the Partner shall contribute the excess of the Withheld Amount over the Common Redemption Amount to the Partnership before the Partnership is required to pay over such excess to a taxing authority.

 

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(f)             Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the General Partner may place appropriate restrictions on the ability of the Limited Partners to exercise their Common Unit Redemption Rights as and if deemed necessary or reasonable to ensure that the Partnership does not constitute a “publicly traded partnership” under Section 7704 of the Code. If and when the General Partner determines that imposing such restrictions is necessary, the General Partner shall give prompt written notice thereof (a “ Restriction Notice ”) to each of the Limited Partners, which notice shall be accompanied by a copy of an opinion of counsel to the Partnership that states that, in the opinion of such counsel, restrictions are necessary or reasonable in order to avoid the Partnership being treated as a “publicly traded partnership” under Section 7704 of the Code.

 

8.05          Registration . Subject to the terms of any agreement between the General Partner and a Limited Partner with respect to Common Units held by such Limited Partner:

 

(a)            Shelf Registration of the REIT Shares . Following the date on which the General Partner becomes eligible to use a registration statement on Form S-3 for the registration of securities under the Securities Act (the “ S-3 Eligible Date ”), the General Partner shall use commercially reasonable efforts to file with the Commission a shelf registration statement under Rule 415 of the Securities Act (the “ Registration Statement ”), or any similar rule that may be adopted by the Commission, covering (i) the issuance of REIT Shares issuable upon redemption of the Common Units held by the Limited Partners as of the date of this Agreement (“ Redemption Shares ”) and/or (ii) the resale by the holder of the Redemption Shares. In connection therewith, the General Partner will:

 

(1)          use commercially reasonable efforts to have such Registration Statement declared effective;

 

(2)          to use our commercially reasonable efforts to keep the Registration Statement continuously effective (including the preparation an filing of any amendments and supplements necessary for that purpose) until the earlier of (i) the date that is two (2) years after the date of the effectiveness of the Registration Statement, (ii) the date on which all the Redemption Shares registered on the Registration Statement are eligible for sale without registration pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act, or any successor rule thereto (“ Rule 144 ”) without volume limitations or other restrictions on transfer thereunder, or (iii) the date on which all the Redemption Shares registered by the Registration Statement are sold;

 

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(3)          use commercially reasonable efforts to register or qualify the Redemption Shares covered by the Registration Statement under the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdictions within the United States as required by law, and do such other reasonable acts and things as may be required of it to enable such holders to consummate the sale or other disposition in such jurisdictions of the Redemption Shares; provided , however , that the General Partner shall not be required to (i) qualify as a foreign corporation or consent to a general or unlimited service or process in any jurisdictions in which it would not otherwise be required to be qualified or so consent or (ii) qualify as a dealer in securities; and

 

(4)          otherwise use commercially reasonable efforts to comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the Commission in connection with the Registration Statement.

 

The General Partner further agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts to supplement or make amendments to the Registration Statement, if required by the rules, regulations or instructions applicable to the registration form utilized by the General Partner or by the Securities Act or rules and regulations thereunder for the Registration Statement. Each Limited Partner agrees to furnish to the General Partner, upon request, such information with respect to the Limited Partner as may be required to complete and file the Registration Statement and to have the Registration Statement declared effective by the SEC.

 

In connection with and as a condition to the General Partner’s obligations with respect to the filing of the Registration Statement pursuant to this Section 8.05, each Limited Partner agrees with the General Partner that:

 

(w)           it will provide in a timely manner to the General Partner such information with respect to the Limited Partner as reasonably required to complete the Registration Statement or as otherwise required to comply with applicable securities laws and regulations;

 

(x)           it will not offer or sell its Redemption Shares until (A) such Redemption Shares have been included in the Registration Statement and (B) it has received notice that the Registration Statement covering such Redemption Shares, or any post-effective amendment thereto, has been declared effective by the Commission, such notice to have been satisfied by the posting by the Commission on www.sec.gov of a notice of effectiveness;

 

(y)           if the General Partner determines in its good faith judgment, after consultation with counsel, that the use of the Registration Statement, including any pre- or post-effective amendment thereto, or the use of any prospectus contained in such Registration Statement would require the disclosure of important information that the General Partner has a bona fide business purpose for preserving as confidential or the disclosure of which, in the judgment of the General Partner, would impede the General Partner’s ability to consummate a significant transaction, upon written notice of such determination by the General Partner (which notice shall be deemed sufficient if given through the issuance of a press release or filing with the Commission and, if such notice is not publicly distributed, the Limited Partner agrees to keep the subject information confidential and acknowledges that such information may constitute material non-public information subject to the applicable restrictions under securities laws), the rights of each Limited Partner to offer, sell or distribute its Redemption Shares pursuant to such Registration Statement or prospectus or to require the General Partner to take action with respect to the registration or sale of any Redemption Shares pursuant to a Registration Statement (including any action contemplated by this Section 8.05) will be suspended until the date upon which the General Partner notifies such Limited Partner in writing (which notice shall be deemed sufficient if given through the issuance of a press release or filing with the Commission and, if such notice is not publicly distributed, the Limited Partner agrees to keep the subject information confidential and acknowledges that such information may constitute material non-public information subject to the applicable restrictions under securities laws) that suspension of such rights for the grounds set forth in this paragraph is no longer necessary; provided , however , that the General Partner may not suspend such rights for an aggregate period of more than 180 days in any 12-month period; and

 

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(z)           in the case of the registration of any underwritten equity offering proposed by the General Partner (other than any registration by the General Partner on Form S-8, or a successor or substantially similar form, of an employee stock option, stock purchase or compensation plan or of securities issued or issuable pursuant to any such plan), each Limited Partner will agree, if requested in writing by the managing underwriter or underwriters administering such offering, not to effect any offer, sale or distribution of any REIT Shares or Redemption Shares (or any option or right to acquire REIT Shares or Redemption Shares) during the period commencing on the tenth day prior to the expected effective date (which date shall be stated in such notice) of the registration statement covering such underwritten primary equity offering or, if such offering shall be a “take-down” from an effective shelf registration statement, the tenth day prior to the expected commencement date (which date shall be stated in such notice) of such offering, and ending on the date specified by such managing underwriter in such written request to the Limited Partners; provided , however , that no Limited Partner shall be required to agree not to effect any offer, sale or distribution of its Redemption Shares for a period of time that is longer than the greater of 90 days or the period of time for which any senior executive of the General Partner is required so to agree in connection with such offering. Nothing in this paragraph shall be read to limit the ability of any Limited Partner to redeem its Common Units in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

(b)            Listing on Securities Exchange . If the General Partner lists or maintains the listing of REIT Shares on any securities exchange or national market system, it shall, at its expense and as necessary to permit the registration and sale of the Redemption Shares hereunder, list thereon, maintain and, when necessary, increase such listing to include such Redemption Shares.

 

(c)            Registration Not Required . Notwithstanding the foregoing, the General Partner shall not be required to file or maintain the effectiveness of a registration statement relating to Redemption Shares after the first date upon which, in the opinion of counsel to the General Partner, all of the Redemption Shares covered thereby could be sold by the holders thereof either (i) pursuant to Rule 144 without limitation as to amount or manner of sale or (ii) pursuant to Rule 144 in one transaction in accordance with the volume limitations contained in Rule 144(e) under the Securities Act.

 

(d)            Allocation of Expenses . The Partnership shall pay all expenses in connection with the Registration Statement, including without limitation (i) all expenses incident to filing with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., (ii) registration fees, (iii) printing expenses, (iv) accounting and legal fees and expenses, except to the extent holders of Redemption Shares elect to engage accountants or attorneys in addition to the accountants and attorneys engaged by the General Partner or the Partnership, which fees and expenses for such accountants or attorneys shall be for the account of the holders of the Redemption Shares, (v) accounting expenses incident to or required by any such registration or qualification and (vi) expenses of complying with the securities or blue sky laws of any jurisdictions in connection with such registration or qualification; provided , however , neither the Partnership nor the General Partner shall be liable for, or pay (A) any discounts or commissions to any underwriter or broker attributable to the sale of Redemption Shares, or (B) any fees or expenses incurred by holders of Redemption Shares in connection with such registration that, according to the written instructions of any regulatory authority, the Partnership or the General Partner is not permitted to pay.

 

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(e)            Indemnification .

 

(i)           In connection with the Registration Statement, the General Partner and the Partnership agree to indemnify each holder of Redemption Shares and each Person who controls any such holder of Redemption Shares within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act, against all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses (including reasonable costs of investigation) caused by any untrue, or alleged untrue, statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, preliminary prospectus or prospectus (as amended or supplemented if the General Partner shall have furnished any amendments or supplements thereto) or caused by any omission or alleged omission, to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, except insofar as such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses are caused by any untrue statement, alleged untrue statement, omission, or alleged omission based upon information furnished to the General Partner by the Limited Partner or the holder for use therein. The General Partner and each officer, director and controlling person of the General Partner and the Partnership shall be indemnified by each Limited Partner or holder of Redemption Shares covered by the Registration Statement for all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses (including reasonable costs of investigation) caused by any untrue, or alleged untrue, statement or any omission, or alleged omission, based upon information furnished to the General Partner by the Limited Partner or the holder for use therein.

 

(ii)          Promptly upon receipt by a party indemnified under this Section 8.05(e) of notice of the commencement of any action against such indemnified party in respect of which indemnity or reimbursement may be sought against any indemnifying party under this Section 8.05(e), such indemnified party shall notify the indemnifying party in writing of the commencement of such action, but the failure to so notify the indemnifying party shall not relieve it of any liability that it may have to any indemnified party otherwise than under this Section 8.05(e) unless such failure shall materially adversely affect the defense of such action. In case notice of commencement of any such action shall be given to the indemnifying party as above provided, the indemnifying party shall be entitled to participate in and, to the extent it may wish, jointly with any other indemnifying party similarly notified, to assume the defense of such action at its own expense, with counsel chosen by it and reasonably satisfactory to such indemnified party. The indemnified party shall have the right to employ separate counsel in any such action and participate in the defense thereof, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be paid by the indemnified party unless (i) the indemnifying party agrees to pay the same, (ii) the indemnifying party fails to assume the defense of such action with counsel reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party or (iii) the named parties to any such action (including any impleaded parties) have been advised by such counsel that representation of such indemnified party and the indemnifying party by the same counsel would be inappropriate under applicable standards of professional conduct (in which case the indemnified party shall have the right to separate counsel and the indemnifying party shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of such separate counsel, provided that, the indemnifying party shall not be liable for more than one separate counsel). No indemnifying party shall be liable for any settlement of any proceeding entered into without its consent.

 

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(f)            Contribution .

 

(i)           If for any reason the indemnification provisions contemplated by Section 8.05(e) hereof are either unavailable or insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party in respect of any losses, claims, damages or liabilities referred to therein, then the party that would otherwise be required to provide indemnification or the indemnifying party (in either case, for purposes of this Section 8.05(f), the “ Indemnifying Party ”) in respect of such losses, claims, damages or liabilities, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by the party that would otherwise be entitled to indemnification or the indemnified party (in either case, for purposes of this Section 8.05(f), the “ Indemnified Party ”) as a result of such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expense, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of the Indemnifying Party and the Indemnified Party, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of the Indemnifying Party and Indemnified Party shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact related to information supplied by the Indemnifying Party or Indemnified Party, and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission. The amount paid or payable by a party as a result of the losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses referred to above shall be deemed to include any legal or other fees or expenses reasonably incurred by such party.

 

(ii)          The parties hereto agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 8.05(f) were determined by pro rata allocation (even if the holders were treated as one entity for such purpose) or by any other method of allocation that does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to in the immediately preceding paragraph. No person or entity determined to have committed a fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person or entity who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.

 

(iii)         The contribution provided for in this Section 8.05(f) shall survive the termination of this Agreement and shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of any Indemnified Party.

 

ARTICLE IX

TRANSFERS OF PARTNERSHIP INTERESTS

 

9.01          Purchase for Investment .

 

(a)            Each Limited Partner, by its signature below or by its subsequent admission to the Partnership, hereby represents and warrants to the General Partner and to the Partnership that the acquisition of such Limited Partner’s Partnership Units is made for investment purposes only and not with a view to the resale or distribution of such Partnership Units.

 

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(b)            Subject to the provisions of Section 9.02 hereof, each Limited Partner agrees that such Limited Partner will not sell, assign or otherwise transfer such Limited Partner’s Partnership Units or any fraction thereof, whether voluntarily or by operation of law or at judicial sale or otherwise, to any Person who does not make the representations and warranties to the General Partner set forth in Section 9.01(a) hereof.

 

9.02          Restrictions on Transfer of Partnership Units .

 

(a)            Subject to the provisions of Sections 9.02(b) and (c) hereof, no Limited Partner may offer, sell, assign, hypothecate, pledge or otherwise transfer all or any portion of such Limited Partner’s Partnership Units, or any of such Limited Partner’s economic rights as a Limited Partner, whether voluntarily or by operation of law or at judicial sale or otherwise (collectively, a “ Transfer ”) without the consent of the General Partner, which consent may be granted or withheld in its sole and absolute discretion; provided , however , that the term Transfer does not include (a) any redemption of Common Units by the Partnership or the General Partner, or acquisition of Common Units by the General Partner, pursuant to Section 8.04 or (b) any redemption of Partnership Units pursuant to any Partnership Unit Designation. The General Partner may require, as a condition of any Transfer to which it consents, that the transferor assume all costs incurred by the Partnership in connection therewith (including, but not limited to, cost of legal counsel).

 

(b)            No Limited Partner may withdraw from the Partnership other than as a result of a permitted Transfer ( i.e. , a Transfer consented to as contemplated by clause (a) above or a Transfer pursuant to Section 9.05 hereof) of all of such Limited Partner’s Partnership Units pursuant to this Article IX or pursuant to a redemption of all of such Limited Partner’s Common Units pursuant to Section 8.04 hereof. Upon the permitted Transfer or redemption of all of a Limited Partner’s Common Units, such Limited Partner shall cease to be a Limited Partner.

 

(c)            No Limited Partner may effect a Transfer of its Partnership Units, in whole or in part, if, in the opinion of legal counsel for the Partnership, such proposed Transfer would require the registration of the Partnership Units under the Securities Act or would otherwise violate any applicable federal or state securities or blue sky law (including investment suitability standards).

 

(d)            No Transfer by a Limited Partner of its Partnership Units, in whole or in part, may be made to any Person if (i) in the opinion of legal counsel for the Partnership, such Transfer would result in the Partnership being treated as an association taxable as a corporation (other than a qualified REIT subsidiary within the meaning of Section 856(i) of the Code), (ii) in the opinion of legal counsel for the Partnership, it would adversely affect the ability of the General Partner to continue to qualify as a REIT or subject the General Partner to any additional taxes under Section 857 or Section 4981 of the Code, (iii) the General Partner determines, in its sole and absolute discretion, that such Transfer, along or in connection with other Transfers, could cause the Partnership Units to be treated as readily tradable on an “established securities market” or a “secondary market (or the substantial equivalent thereof)” within the meaning of Section 7704 of the Code, or (iv) in the opinion of legal counsel for the Partnership, such Transfer is reasonably likely to cause the Partnership to fail to satisfy the 90% qualifying income test described in Section 7704(c) of the Code.

 

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(e)            Any purported Transfer in contravention of any of the provisions of this Article IX shall be void ab initio and ineffectual and shall not be binding upon, or recognized by, the General Partner or the Partnership.

 

(f)             Prior to the consummation of any Transfer under this Article IX, the transferor and/or the transferee shall deliver to the General Partner such opinions, certificates and other documents as the General Partner shall request in connection with such Transfer.

 

9.03          Admission of Substitute Limited Partner .

 

(a)            Subject to the other provisions of this Article IX, an assignee of the Partnership Units of a Limited Partner (which shall be understood to include any purchaser, transferee, donee or other recipient of any disposition of such Partnership Units) shall be deemed admitted as a Limited Partner of the Partnership only with the consent of the General Partner, which consent may be given or withheld by the General Partner in its sole and absolute discretion, and upon the completion of the following in a manner satisfactory to the General Partner:

 

(i)           The assignee shall have accepted and agreed to be bound by the terms and provisions of this Agreement by executing a counterpart or an amendment thereof, including a revised Exhibit A , and such other documents or instruments as the General Partner may require in order to effect the admission of such Person as a Limited Partner.

 

(ii)          To the extent required, an amended Certificate evidencing the admission of such Person as a Limited Partner shall have been signed, acknowledged and filed in accordance with the Act.

 

(iii)         The assignee shall have delivered a letter containing the representation set forth in Section 9.01(a) hereof and the agreement set forth in Section 9.01(b) hereof.

 

(iv)          If the assignee is a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or trust, the assignee shall have provided the General Partner with evidence satisfactory to counsel for the Partnership of the assignee’s authority to become a Limited Partner under the terms and provisions of this Agreement.

 

(v)          The assignee shall have executed a power of attorney containing the terms and provisions set forth in Section 8.02 hereof.

 

(vi)         The assignee shall have paid all legal fees and other expenses of the Partnership and the General Partner and filing and publication costs in connection with its substitution as a Limited Partner.

 

(vii)        The assignee shall have obtained the prior written consent of the General Partner to its admission as a Substitute Limited Partner, which consent may be given or denied in the exercise of the General Partner’s sole and absolute discretion.

 

(b)            For the purpose of allocating Profits and Losses and distributing cash received by the Partnership, a Substitute Limited Partner shall be treated as having become, and appearing in the records of the Partnership as, a Partner upon the filing of the Certificate described in Section 9.03(a)(ii) hereof or, if no such filing is required, the later of the date specified in the transfer documents or the date on which the General Partner has received all necessary instruments of transfer and substitution.

 

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(c)            The General Partner and the Substitute Limited Partner shall cooperate with each other by preparing the documentation required by this Section 9.03 and making all required filings and publications. The Partnership shall take all such action as promptly as practicable after the satisfaction of the conditions in this Article IX to the admission of such Person as a Limited Partner of the Partnership.

 

9.04          Rights of Assignees of Partnership Units .

 

(a)            Subject to the provisions of Sections 9.01, 9.02 and 9.03 hereof, except as required by operation of law, the Partnership shall not be obligated for any purposes whatsoever to recognize the assignment by any Limited Partner of its Partnership Units until the Partnership has received notice thereof.

 

(b)           Any Person who is the assignee of all or any portion of a Limited Partner’s Partnership Units, but does not become a Substitute Limited Partner and desires to make a further assignment of such Partnership Units, shall be subject to all the provisions of this Article IX to the same extent and in the same manner as any Limited Partner desiring to make an assignment of its Partnership Units.

 

9.05          Effect of Bankruptcy, Death, Incompetence or Termination of a Limited Partner . The occurrence of an Event of Bankruptcy as to a Limited Partner, the death of a Limited Partner or a final adjudication that a Limited Partner is incompetent (which term shall include, but not be limited to, insanity) shall not cause the termination or dissolution of the Partnership, and the business of the Partnership shall continue if an order for relief in a bankruptcy proceeding is entered against a Limited Partner, the trustee or receiver of his estate or, if such Limited Partner dies, such Limited Partner’s executor, administrator or trustee, or, if such Limited Partner is finally adjudicated incompetent, such Limited Partner’s committee, guardian or conservator, shall have the rights of such Limited Partner for the purpose of settling or managing such Limited Partner’s estate property and such power as the bankrupt, deceased or incompetent Limited Partner possessed to assign all or any part of such Limited Partner’s Partnership Units and to join with the assignee in satisfying conditions precedent to the admission of the assignee as a Substitute Limited Partner.

 

9.06          Joint Ownership of Partnership Units . A Partnership Unit may be acquired by two individuals as joint tenants with right of survivorship, provided that such individuals either are married or are related and share the same home as tenants in common. The written consent or vote of both owners of any such jointly held Partnership Unit shall be required to constitute the action of the owners of such Partnership Unit; provided , however , that the written consent of only one joint owner will be required if the Partnership has been provided with evidence satisfactory to the counsel for the Partnership that the actions of a single joint owner can bind both owners under the applicable laws of the state of residence of such joint owners. Upon the death of one owner of a Partnership Unit held in a joint tenancy with a right of survivorship, the Partnership Unit shall become owned solely by the survivor as a Limited Partner and not as an assignee. The Partnership need not recognize the death of one of the owners of a jointly-held Partnership Unit until it shall have received certificated notice of such death. Upon notice to the General Partner from either owner, the General Partner shall cause the Partnership Unit to be divided into two equal Partnership Units, which shall thereafter be owned separately by each of the former owners.

 

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ARTICLE X

BOOKS AND RECORDS; ACCOUNTING; TAX MATTERS

 

10.01          Books and Records . At all times during the continuance of the Partnership, the General Partner shall keep or cause to be kept at the Partnership’s specified office true and complete books of account in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, including: (a) a current list of the full name and last known business address of each Partner, (b) a copy of the Certificate of Limited Partnership and all certificates of amendment thereto, (c) copies of the Partnership’s federal, state and local income tax returns and reports, (d) copies of this Agreement and any financial statements of the Partnership for the three most recent years and (e) all documents and information required under the Act. Any Partner or its duly authorized representative, upon paying the costs of collection, duplication and mailing, shall be entitled to a copy of such records if reasonably requested.

 

10.02        Custody of Partnership Funds; Bank Accounts .

 

(a)            All funds of the Partnership not otherwise invested shall be deposited in one or more accounts maintained in such banking or brokerage institutions as the General Partner shall determine, and withdrawals shall be made only on such signature or signatures as the General Partner may, from time to time, determine.

 

(b)            All deposits and other funds not needed in the operation of the business of the Partnership may be invested by the General Partner. The funds of the Partnership shall not be commingled with the funds of any Person other than the General Partner except for such commingling as may necessarily result from an investment in those investment companies permitted by this Section 10.02(b).

 

10.03        Fiscal and Taxable Year . The fiscal and taxable year of the Partnership shall be the calendar year unless otherwise required by the Code.

 

10.04        Annual Tax Information and Report . Within 75 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Partnership, the General Partner shall furnish to each person who was a Limited Partner at any time during such year the tax information necessary to file such Limited Partner’s individual tax returns as shall be reasonably required by law.

 

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10.05        Partnership Representative; Tax Elections; Special Basis Adjustments .

 

(a)            The General Partner shall designate each year a Partnership Representative of the Partnership, which may be the General Partner and shall be the General Partner if no other person is designated. As Partnership Representative, the General Partner shall have the right and obligation to take all actions authorized and required of such position by Sections 6222 through 6241 of the Code and any Treasury Regulations thereunder and comparable provisions of state and local law (the “ Partnership Audit Rules ”). The General Partner shall have the right to retain professional assistance in respect of any audit of the Partnership by the Service or to retain the services of a Partnership Representative, and all out-of-pocket expenses and fees incurred by the Partnership Representative shall constitute Partnership expenses. Any person who serves as Partnership Representative shall not be liable to the Partnership or any Partner for any action it takes or fails to take in such capacity, unless such action or failure to act constitutes bad faith, willful misconduct, gross negligence, fraud or a material breach of this Agreement. Upon the Partnership’s request, each Partner shall provide to the Partnership within the required time frame any information that the Partnership Representative believes may be necessary or appropriate to resolve any tax issue relating to the Partnership or comply with or be eligible to invoke any aspect of the Partnership Audit Rules. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, any taxes, penalties, and interest payable by the Partnership under the Partnership Audit Rules shall be treated as attributable to the Partners, and, to the extent possible, the Partnership Representative shall allocate the burden of any such amounts to those Partners to whom such amounts are reasonably attributable. Any such amounts allocated to a Partner, at the option of the Partnership Representative, shall (a) be promptly paid to the Partnership by such Partner or (b) be paid by reducing the amount of the current or next succeeding distribution or distributions which would otherwise have been made to such Partner.  The obligations of each Partner (or former Partner) under this Section 10.05(a) shall survive the Transfer by such Partner of its interest in the Partnership or the dissolution of the Partnership.  In the event of a transfer of a Partner’s Interest, the transferee and transferor shall be jointly and severally liable for any liability with respect to the obligations of the transferor Partner under the Partnership Audit Rules. The Partnership shall indemnify Partnership Representative as provided in Section 6.03.

 

(b)            All elections required or permitted to be made by the Partnership under the Code or any applicable state or local tax law shall be made by the General Partner in its sole and absolute discretion.

 

(c)            In the event of a transfer of all or any part of the Partnership Interest of any Partner, the Partnership, at the option of the General Partner, may elect pursuant to Section 754 of the Code to adjust the basis of the Properties. Notwithstanding anything contained in Article V of this Agreement, any adjustments made pursuant to Section 754 shall affect only the successor in interest to the transferring Partner and in no event shall be taken into account in establishing, maintaining or computing Capital Accounts for the other Partners for any purpose under this Agreement. Each Partner will furnish the Partnership with all information necessary to give effect to such election.

 

(d)            The Partners, intending to be legally bound, hereby authorize the Partnership to make an election (the “ Safe Harbor Election ”) to have the “liquidation value” safe harbor provided in Proposed Treasury Regulation § 1.83-3(1) and the Proposed Revenue Procedure set forth in Internal Revenue Service Notice 2005-43, as such safe harbor may be modified when such proposed guidance is issued in final form or as amended by subsequently issued guidance (the “ Safe Harbor ”), apply to any interest in the Partnership transferred to a service provider while the Safe Harbor Election remains effective, to the extent such interest meets the Safe Harbor requirements (collectively, such interests are referred to as “ Safe Harbor Interests ”). The Tax Matters Partner is authorized and directed to execute and file the Safe Harbor Election on behalf of the Partnership and the Partners. The Partnership and the Partners (including any person to whom an interest in the Partnership is transferred in connection with the performance of services) hereby agree to comply with all requirements of the Safe Harbor (including forfeiture allocations) with respect to all Safe Harbor Interests and to prepare and file all U.S. federal income tax returns reporting the tax consequences of the issuance and vesting of Safe Harbor Interests consistent with such final Safe Harbor guidance. The Partnership is also authorized to take such actions as are necessary to achieve, under the Safe Harbor, the effect that the election and compliance with all requirements of the Safe Harbor referred to above would be intended to achieve under Proposed Treasury Regulation § 1.83-3, including amending this Agreement.

 

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(e)            Each Limited Partner shall be required to provide such information as reasonably requested by the Partnership in order to determine whether such Limited Partner (i) owns, directly or constructively (within the meaning of Section 318(a) of the Code, as modified by Section 856(d)(5) of the Code and Section 7704(d)(3) of the Code), five percent (5%) or more of the value of the Partnership or (ii) owns, directly or constructively (within the meaning of Section 318(a) of the Code, as modified by Section 856(d)(5) of the Code and Section 7704(d)(3) of the Code), ten percent (10%) or more of (a) the stock, by voting power or value, of a tenant (other than a “taxable REIT subsidiary” within the meaning of Section 856(d) of the Code) of the Partnership that is a corporation or (b) the assets or net profits of a tenant of the Partnership that is a noncorporate entity.

 

ARTICLE XI

AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT; MERGER

 

11.01        Amendment of Agreement .

 

The General Partner’s consent shall be required for any amendment to this Agreement. The General Partner, without the consent of the Limited Partners, may amend this Agreement in any respect; provided , however , that the following amendments shall require the consent of a Majority in Interest (excluding, for purposes of determining a Majority in Interest, Partnership Interests held by the General Partner or any Subsidiary of the General Partner):

 

(a)            any amendment affecting the operation of the Conversion Factor or the Common Unit Redemption Right (except as otherwise provided herein) in a manner that adversely affects the Limited Partners in any material respect;

 

(b)            any amendment that would adversely affect the rights of the Limited Partners to receive the distributions payable to them hereunder, other than with respect to the issuance of additional Partnership Units pursuant to Section 4.02 hereof;

 

(c)            any amendment that would alter the Partnership’s allocations of Profit and Loss to the Limited Partners, other than with respect to the issuance of additional Partnership Units pursuant to Section 4.02 hereof;

 

(d)            any amendment that would impose on the Limited Partners any obligation to make additional Capital Contributions to the Partnership; or

 

(e)            any amendment to this Article XI.

 

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11.02        Merger of Partnership .

 

The General Partner, without the consent of the Limited Partners, may (i) merge or consolidate the Partnership with or into any other domestic or foreign partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company or corporation or (ii) sell all or substantially all of the assets of the Partnership, in each case in a transaction pursuant to which the Limited Partners (other than the General Partner or any Subsidiary of the General Partner) receive consideration as set forth in Section 7.01(c)(ii) hereof or in a transaction that complies with the provisions of Sections 7.01(c)(iii) or 7.01(d) hereof and may amend this Agreement in connection with any such transaction consistent with the provisions of this Article XI; provided , however , that the consent of a Majority in Interest shall be required in the case of any other (a) merger or consolidation of the Partnership with or into any other domestic or foreign partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company or corporation or (b) sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the Partnership.

 

ARTICLE XII

GENERAL PROVISIONS

 

12.01        Notices . All communications required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given when delivered personally, by email, by press release, by posting on the Web site of the General Partner, or upon deposit in the United States mail, registered, first-class postage prepaid return receipt requested, or via courier to the Partners at the addresses set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto, as it may be amended or restated from time to time; provided , however , that any Partner may specify a different address by notifying the General Partner in writing of such different address. Notices to the General Partner and the Partnership shall be delivered at or mailed to its principal office address set forth in Section 2.03 hereof. The General Partner and the Partnership may specify a different address by notifying the Limited Partners in writing of such different address.

 

12.02        Survival of Rights . Subject to the provisions hereof limiting transfers, this Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Partners and the Partnership and their permitted respective legal representatives, successors, transferees and assigns.

 

12.03       Additional Documents . Each Partner agrees to perform all further acts and execute, swear to, acknowledge and deliver all further documents that may be reasonable, necessary, appropriate or desirable to carry out the provisions of this Agreement or as required by the Act.

 

12.04        Severability . If any provision of this Agreement shall be declared illegal, invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction, then such provision shall be deemed to be severable from this Agreement (to the extent permitted by law) and in any event such illegality, invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect the remainder hereof. To the extent permitted under applicable law, the severed provision shall be interpreted or modified so as to be enforceable to the maximum extent permitted by law.

 

12.05        Entire Agreement . This Agreement and exhibits attached hereto constitute the entire Agreement of the Partners and supersede all prior written agreements and prior and contemporaneous oral agreements, understandings and negotiations with respect to the subject matter hereof.

 

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12.06        Pronouns and Plurals . When the context in which words are used in the Agreement indicates that such is the intent, words in the singular number shall include the plural and the masculine gender shall include the neuter or female gender as the context may require.

 

12.07        Headings . The Article headings or sections in this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not be used in construing the scope of this Agreement or any particular Article.

 

12.08        Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by hand or by power of attorney in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original copy and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument binding on all parties hereto, notwithstanding that all parties shall not have signed the same counterpart.

 

12.09        Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

[Signature page follows.]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have hereunder affixed their signatures to this First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership, all as of the 16th day of May, 2019.

 

  GENERAL PARTNER:
     
  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
      Andrew Spodek,
      Chief Executive Officer
     
  LIMITED PARTNERS:
     
  By:   POSTAL REALTY LIMITED PARTNER LLC
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
     
  By:   Andrew Spodek
     
    /s/ Andrew Spodek

 

 

 

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Exhibit 10.2

 

CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

 

This CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of May 14, 2019 by and among Unlimited Postal Holdings, LP, a Texas limited partnership, ( “Contributor ”), Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Operating Partnershi p”), and Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the“ REIT ”), the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership.

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , Contributor is the direct or indirect owner of the properties described on Exhibit A hereto (each a “ Property ” and collectively, the “ Properties ” or the “ Contributed Interests ”);

 

WHEREAS , Contributor desires to contribute the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership, and the Operating Partnership desires to acquire the Contributed Interests from Contributor, on the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE , for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE CONTRIBUTION

 

1.1 Contribution of Contributed Interests . Contributor irrevocably agrees to contribute, transfer and assign at the Closing (as defined herein) the Contributed Interests, and the Operating Partnership agrees to accept transfer of the Contributed Interests and any such other interests pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement. Contributor shall transfer the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

1.2 Consideration .

 

(a) Consideration Amount . The total consideration (the “ Consideration ”) for which Contributor agrees to contribute, transfer and assign the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership, and for which the Operating Partnership agrees to pay, issue or deliver to Contributor, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing shall be the amount of cash and number of common units of limited partnership interests of the Operating Partnership (“ OP Units ”) set forth on Exhibit A as “Total Consideration.” The Consideration may be adjusted, upward or downward, by the amount of any adjustments arising from the Prorations (as defined herein). Any decrease or increase in the Consideration as a result of the Prorations will adjust the Consideration payable hereunder in the form of OP Units based on the IPO Price. 

 

 

 

 

(b) OP Units . Any portion of the Consideration payable hereunder to be in the form of OP Units shall be registered in the name of Contributor. OP Units will not be delivered to Contributor unless Section 2.2(j) hereof is true and correct as of the Closing Date (as defined herein). No fractional OP Units will be issued and OP Units will be rounded to the nearest whole number. The Consideration, whether in cash, in OP Units or a combination thereof, may be reduced by the amount the Operating Partnership reasonably determines must be withheld for tax purposes. The rights and obligations of holders of OP Units as of the Closing will be as set forth in the First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Operating Partnership (the “ Partnership Agreement ”), the form of which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the REIT’s Registration Statement on Form S-11 (File No. 333- 230684), which the REIT filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) on April 2, 2019. Although initially the OP Units will not be certificated, certificates, if any, subsequently evidencing the OP Units will bear appropriate legends (i) indicating that the OP Units have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), (ii) indicating that the Partnership Agreement will restrict the transfer of the OP Units, and (iii) describing the ownership limitations and transfer restrictions imposed by the charter of the REIT with respect to shares of the REIT’s capital stock.

 

1.3 No Further Interest . Contributor acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by Contributor, the Contributed Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the Operating Partnership, or a subsidiary thereof, and Contributor shall no longer have any further right, title or interest in any of the Contributed Interests, other than indirectly through the ownership of any OP Units.

 

1.4 Tax Consequences to Contributor . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, including without limitation the use of words and phrases such as “sell,” “sale,” “purchase,” and “pay,” the parties hereto acknowledge and agree that (i) all indebtedness to be assumed by the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates pursuant to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement be treated as “qualified liabilities” within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.707-5(a)(5); and (ii) therefore, the Contribution be treated as a nontaxable contribution by the Contributor of the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership under Section 721(a) of the Code, with no gain required to be recognized by the Contributor or any partner in the Contributor as a result thereof. Except as otherwise provided in the Tax Protection Agreement, no Party shall take any position on any tax return that is inconsistent with the foregoing treatment except as required by law.

 

1.5 Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

 

Contributor’s Percentage Interest ” means, with respect to each Contributed Interest, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A hereto under the heading “Contributed Interest”, which reflects the Contributor’s percentage ownership interest in each Property.

 

IPO ” means the underwritten initial public offering of shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the REIT.

 

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IPO Price ” means the public offering price set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the “ Prospectus ”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

Post-Closing Tax Period ” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date. “ Pre-Closing Tax Period ” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or

before the end of the Closing Date.

 

Prorations ” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which the Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date. Contributor shall be entitled to Contributor’s share of all income and responsible for Contributor’s share of all expenses of the Contributed Interest for the period of time up to but not including the Closing Date, and the Operating Partnership shall be entitled to all such income and responsible for all such expenses for the period of time after and including the Closing Date. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the following items of income and expense shall be prorated at Closing:

 

(A) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Property shall be prorated at the Closing;

 

(B) Utilities . All telephone, electric, sewer, water and other utility bills, trash removal bills, janitorial and maintenance service bills and all other expenses relating to a Property, and which are allocable to the period prior to the Closing Date shall be determined and paid, or caused to be paid, by the Contributor before the Closing, if possible, or if such is not determinable before the Closing, then the Parties shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to determine and pay such amounts as promptly as possible following the Closing and the Operating Partnership may withhold from any cash amount of the Consideration payable at the Closing hereunder an amount of cash reasonably estimated to cover any estimated Proration for the items described in this subsection (B);

 

(C) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Property and all other income from the Property shall be prorated at the Closing; and

 

(D) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the county in which the Property is located shall be prorated at the Closing.

 

Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement ” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

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ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Representations by the Operating Partnership . The Operating Partnership hereby represents and warrants to Contributor that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power . The Operating Partnership is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Operating Partnership of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the Operating Partnership and require no further action or approval of the Operating Partnership’s partners or of any other individuals or entities in order to constitute this Agreement as a binding and enforceable obligation of the Operating Partnership.

 

(b) OP Units Validly Issued . The OP Units, when issued in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Partnership Agreement, will be duly and validly authorized and issued, free of any preemptive or similar rights, and will be without any obligation to restore capital, except as required by the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act (the “ Limited Partnership Act ”).

 

2.2 Representations by Contributor . Contributor hereby represents and warrants to the Operating Partnership that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power; Due Authorization . Contributor, if an entity or trust, is duly incorporated, formed or organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of its state of incorporation, formation or organization. Contributor has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by Contributor of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of Contributor and require no further action or approval of Contributor’s members, partners, stockholders, managers, board of directors, trustees or of any other individuals or entities, as applicable, in order to constitute this Agreement as a binding and enforceable obligation of Contributor. This Agreement, and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of Contributor pursuant to this Agreement, constitutes, or when executed and delivered will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of Contributor, enforceable against Contributor in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

(b) Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by Contributor has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to Contributor or to any Contributed Interests.

 

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(c) Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting Contributor in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of Contributor or Property, (3) could adversely affect the ability of Contributor to perform its obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the Contributed Interests, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the Contributed Interests, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

(d) Good Title . Exhibit A accurately sets forth Contributor’s Percentage Interest. Contributor is the sole record and beneficial owner of the Contributed Interests and has full power and authority to convey the Contributed Interests pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. Contributor has good and marketable title to the Contributed Interests. No person has any community property rights, by virtue of marriage or otherwise, with respect to the Contributed Interests. The Contributed Interests are free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or any other matters affecting title thereto and at the Closing will be contributed to the Operating Partnership free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or other matters affecting title thereto. No other person or entity has an option to purchase or a right of first refusal to purchase the Contributed Interests nor are there any agreements or understandings with respect to the voting, ownership or disposition of the Contributed Interests that could adversely affect Contributor’s ability to perform its obligations hereunder or the Operating Partnership’s ownership of the Contributed Interests following the Closing.

 

(e) Contributed Interests . There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Contributed Interests or any equity interest in any Property that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

(f) No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by Contributor has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any contract or agreement with respect to any Property, relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the contribution, acquisition and transfer of the Contributed Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g) Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, Contributor shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Contributed Interests or the Operating Partnership’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Property after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

 

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(h) [Reserved]

 

(i) Securities Law Matters .

 

(1) In deciding to engage in the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including, if applicable, acquiring OP Units, neither Contributor nor any equity holder thereof is relying upon any representations made to it by the Operating Partnership, or any of its partners, officers, employees, or agents that are not contained herein. Contributor is aware of the risks involved in investing in the OP Units and in the securities issuable upon redemption of the OP Units. Contributor is knowledgeable, sophisticated and experienced in business and financial matters and fully understands the limitations on transfer imposed by the federal securities laws and as described in this Agreement and related materials, including the Partnership Agreement. Contributor has received the Partnership Agreement and related materials, including the registration statement filed by the REIT with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the IPO, has reviewed all documents and has had an opportunity to ask questions of, and to receive answers from, the Operating Partnership and the REIT or a person or persons authorized to act on their behalf, concerning the terms and conditions of an investment in the OP Units and the financial condition, affairs, and business of the Operating Partnership and the REIT. Contributor confirms that all documents, records, and information pertaining to its investment in OP Units that have been requested by Contributor have been made available or delivered to Contributor prior to the date hereof.

 

(2) Contributor and each equity holder thereof understands that the offer and sale of OP Units have not been registered under any state or federal securities laws and are instead being offered and sold in reliance on an exemption from such registration requirements and that the Operating Partnership’s reliance on such exemption is predicated in part on the accuracy and completeness of the representations and warranties of Contributor contained herein. The OP Units issuable to Contributor are being acquired by Contributor solely for its own account, for investment, and are not being acquired with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any distribution, subdivision, or fractionalization thereof, in violation of such laws, and Contributor does not have any present intention to enter into any contract, undertaking, agreement, or arrangement with respect to any such resale.

 

(3) Contributor is able to bear the economic risk of holding the OP Units for an indefinite period and is able to afford the complete loss of its investment in the OP Units.

 

(4) Contributor understands that no federal agency (including the SEC) or state agency has made or will make any finding or determination as to the fairness of an investment in the OP Units (including as to the value of the Consideration payable in OP Units).

 

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(5) Contributor understands that there is no established public, private or other market for the OP Units to be issued to Contributor hereunder and it is not anticipated that there will be any public, private or other market for such OP Units in the foreseeable future.

 

(6) Contributor understands that Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act is not currently available with respect to the sale of OP Units.

 

(j) Accredited Investor . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units as some or all of the Consideration as set forth on Exhibit A , Contributor is an “accredited investor,” as that term is defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D under the Securities Act, and has previously provided the Operating Partnership and the REIT with a duly executed questionnaire confirming Contributor’s accredited investor status. No event or circumstance has occurred since delivery of such questionnaire to make the statements therein false or misleading.

 

Tax Matters . (1) Contributor represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own tax advisors advice regarding the tax consequences of (i) the transfer of the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership and the receipt of OP Units and/or cash or deemed assumption of debt as the Consideration therefor, (ii) its admission as a limited partner of the Operating Partnership, if applicable, (iii) any other transaction contemplated by this Agreement and (iv) ownership of OP Units, including the effect of Section 704(c) of the Code. Neither the Operating Partnership nor the REIT has made any representation to Contributor regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and Contributor further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the Operating Partnership or the Operating Partnership’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

(2) Contributor represents and warrants to the Operating Partnership and the REIT to each of the representations and warranties set forth in Section 1.14 of the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement as if they were set forth herein.

 

(k) Bankruptcy with respect to Contributor . No Act of Bankruptcy (as defined below) has occurred with respect to Contributor. As used herein, “ Act of Bankruptcy ” means if Contributor or any equity holder, partner, manager or director thereof shall (A) apply for or consent to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator of itself or of all or a substantial part of its property, (B) admit in writing its inability to pay its debts as they become due, (C) make a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (D) file a voluntary petition or commence a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) be adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) file a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fail to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against it in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any entity action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

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(l) Brokerage Commission . Contributor has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions described herein.

 

(m) No Other Ownership . Except for the Contributed Interests, neither Contributor nor any of its affiliates owns any interest in any Property other than through the Contributed Interests.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a) Subject to Section 3.5 hereof, all representations and warranties of Contributor contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b) Subject to the limitations set forth in Section 3.4 hereof, following the Closing, Contributor shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of its representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by Contributor pursuant thereto.

 

3.2 General Indemnification .

 

(a) From and after the Closing Date, Contributor shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the Operating Partnership and the REIT, and their respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party ”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of Contributor contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by Contributor pursuant thereto. In each case, Contributor shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel and any necessary local counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties).

 

(b) Contributor shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting a third-party claim relating to the Contributed Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to the Closing.

 

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(c) With respect to any indemnification claim by an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the Operating Partnership agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from Contributor until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Operating Partnership or the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the Operating Partnership may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by Contributor for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse Contributor in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by Contributor to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by Contributor with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by Contributor for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

3.3 Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to Contributor, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to Contributor will not relieve Contributor from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of Contributor by reason of the inability or failure of Contributor (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to Contributor, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit Contributor, at Contributor’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by Contributor and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that Contributor shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by Contributor. If Contributor shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of Contributor and at Contributor’s sole cost and expense (subject to the limitations in Section 3.4 hereof).

 

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3.4 Limitations on Indemnification Under Section 3.2(a).

 

(a) Contributor shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Parties under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration (valuing OP Units at the IPO Price) and then only to the extent of such excess. Contributor’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

(b) Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of Contributor and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Parties shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III, (and agree to treat any return of OP Units in satisfaction of indemnification obligations hereunder as an adjustment to the Consideration delivered to Contributor hereunder). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, Contributor shall not be liable to the Indemnified Parties for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Parties.

 

(c) The limitations in this Section 3.4 shall not apply to any obligations of Contributor with respect to Prorations under this Agreement.

 

3.5 Limitation Period .

 

(a) Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b) If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between Contributor and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by Contributor in the form of cash or OP Units. To the extent indemnification is made through delivery by Contributor of OP Units, such OP Units shall be valued at an amount per OP Unit equal to the IPO Price. Contributor hereby authorizes the REIT, as general partner of the Operating Partnership, to take all such action as may be necessary to amend the Partnership Agreement, and any exhibits or schedules thereto, to reflect the delivery of any OP Units by Contributor to the Operating Partnership as an indemnification payment hereunder and to reflect that Contributor has no further right, title or interest with respect to any such OP Units.

 

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ARTICLE IV

COVENANTS

 

4.1 Covenants of Contributor .

 

(a) Satisfaction of Conditions . Contributor hereby covenants that Contributor shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the Operating Partnership’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the Operating Partnership shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the Operating Partnership in writing.

 

(b) Consent to Transfers . Contributor hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to Contributor with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Property or any other company or property being contributed or transferred to the Operating Partnership pursuant to a separate contribution or other agreement.

 

(c) No Disposition or Encumbrance of Contributed Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, Contributor shall not, without the prior written consent of the Operating Partnership: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Contributed Interests or all or any portion of its interest in any Property Partnership or Property; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner the Contributed Interests or the Property.

 

(d) Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, Contributor shall, to the extent within its control, not, with respect to any Property, without the prior written consent of the Operating Partnership, to: (i) mortgage, pledge or encumber any Property, (ii) cause or permit any change to the existing use of any Property; (iii) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (iv) make or change any other tax elections; (vi) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (v) change any annual tax accounting period; (vi) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (vii) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return ”); (viii) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (ix) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiii) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

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4.2 Tax Matters .

 

(a) Contributor shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the Operating Partnership for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences, including all out-of- pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

(1) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation in Section 1.14 of the Representations, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2 ; and

 

(2) all Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, net or gross income, Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any sale, receipt, use, transfer or assignments of property or other asset, or Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any payment or accrual of any amounts (including, without limitation, dividends, interest, or wages), attributable to the period ending on the Closing Date.

 

(b) Survival . The obligations of Contributor to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that Contributor’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, Contributor’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such Contributor’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of Contributor under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

(c) Contributor and the Operating Partnership shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Contributed Interests or the Properties as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The Operating Partnership shall promptly notify Contributor upon receipt by the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to any Property and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of Contributor with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. Contributor shall promptly notify the Operating Partnership in writing upon receipt by Contributor or any of its affiliates of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments with respect to any Property. Each of the Operating Partnership and Contributor may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that Contributor shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Contributor has acknowledged liability (except as a partner of the Operating Partnership) for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the Operating Partnership shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the Operating Partnership nor Contributor may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates (other than on Contributor or any of its affiliates as a partner of the Operating Partnership) without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. Contributor and the Operating Partnership shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Properties, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

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(d) For purposes of allocating items of income, gain, loss and deduction with respect to the Property and/or the Contributed Interests in the manner required by Section 704(c) of the Code, the Operating Partnership shall employ, and shall cause any entity controlled by the Operating Partnership which holds title to the Property or the Contributed Interests to employ, the “traditional method” (without curative allocations) as set forth in Treasury Regulations section 1.704-3(b)(1).

 

ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1 Conditions to the Operating Partnership’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Operating Partnership’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Operating Partnership’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

(b) Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

(c) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by Contributor pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the Operating Partnership, Contributor shall have delivered a certificate to the Operating Partnership to such effect in regard to Contributor’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

 

(d) Performance . Contributor shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 5.2 hereof.

 

(e) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

13

 

 

(f) Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

 

(g) Reliance on Regulation D . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units, the Operating Partnership shall, based on the advice of its counsel and the representations made by Contributor in Contributor’s Investor Questionnaire, be reasonably satisfied that the issuance of OP Units to Contributor may be made without registration under the Securities Act in reliance on Regulation D under the Securities Act.

 

(h) Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(i) No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to any of the Contributed Interests or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Property.

 

(j) Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The Operating Partnership shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the Operating Partnership and its counsel.

 

5.2 Conditions to Contributor’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, Contributor’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to Contributor’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Operating Partnership pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b) Performance . The Operating Partnership shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

(c) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

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ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1 Closing . The consummation and closing of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement (the “ Closing ”) shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the Operating Partnership may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein (the “ Closing Date ”), or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2 Contributor’s Deliveries . At the Closing, Contributor shall deliver the following to the Operating Partnership in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the Operating Partnership by Contributor:

 

(a) Assignment of Contributed Interests . An Assignment, in substantially the form of Exhibit B attached hereto.

 

(b) Execution of Partnership Agreement . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units, signature pages of the Partnership Agreement duly executed by Contributor, as limited partner.

 

(c) FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from Contributor certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Code that Contributor is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

 

(d) Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the Operating Partnership or required hereby.

 

6.3 Default Remedies . If Contributor defaults in performing any of Contributor’s obligations under this Agreement, the Operating Partnership shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from Contributor’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and Contributor’s obligation to convey the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

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ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Notices . Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice, demand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

Operating Partnership :

 

Postal Realty LP

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 E. Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Attention: James V. Davidson

Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Contributor :

 

Unlimited Postal Holdings, LP

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

7.2 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitutes the entire agreement and supersedes each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

7.4 Governing Law .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

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(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

7.5 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

7.6 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7 Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

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7.9 Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder are for the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  CONTRIBUTOR :
         
  UNLIMITED POSTAL HOLDINGS LP, a
Texas limited partnership
         
    By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
      Name: Andrew Spodek
      Title: Managing Partner
         
  OPERATING PARTNERSHIP :
         
  POSTAL REALTY LP,
a Delaware limited partnership
   
    BY: Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
      its general partner
         
      By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
        Name: Andrew Spodek
        Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

{Signature page to Unlimited Postal Holdings LP Contribution Agreement]

 

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Exhibit A

 

Contributed Interests and Property

 

Contributor   Contributed Interest   Contributed Property
Unlimited Postal   100%   Dallas, TX
Holdings, LP        
      San Antonio, TX
         
        San Antonio, TX
         
        Lindale, TX
         
        Muleshoe, TX
         
        Sinton, TX
         
        Corpus Christi, TX
         
        Dallas, TX
         
    Total Consideration    
         
    194,960 OP Units    

  

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Exhibit B

 

Assignment

 

The undersigned (“ Assignor ”), for good and valuable consideration paid to the Assignor by Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (“ Assignee ”), pursuant to the Contribution Agreement dated as of                   , 2019, by and among Assignor, Assignee and Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “ Agreement ”), and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, good and indefeasible right, title and interest to the [partnership or limited liability company interests/shares of common stock] described on Schedule A attached hereto, including, without limitation, all right, title and interest, if any, of the undersigned in and to the assets of each such [partnership/limited liability company/corporation] and the right to receive distributions of money, profits and other assets from each such entity, presently existing or hereafter at any time arising or accruing, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

The undersigned, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby covenants and agrees that, at any time and from time to time after the date hereof, upon the written request of Assignee, the undersigned will, without further consideration, do, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be done, executed, acknowledged and delivered, each of and all of such further acts, deeds, assignments, transfers, conveyances and assurances as may reasonably be required by Assignee in order to assign, transfer, set over, convey, assure and confirm unto and vest in Assignee, its successors and assigns, title to the interests described in Schedule A attached hereto.

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Assignment to be signed by a duly authorized officer this                 day of            , 2019.

 

  ___________, a
  _____  ________________
     
  By:  
    Name:
    Title:

  

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Schedule A

 

Contributed Interests and Property

 

Contributor   Contributed Interest   Contributed Property
         

 

 

 

22

 

Exhibit 10.3

 

CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

 

This Contribution Agreement (“ Agreement ”), effective as of May 16, 2019 (the “ Effective Date ”), is made and entered into by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ Contributor ”), and Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (“ Transferee ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS, the Contributor is the legal, record and beneficial owner of (i) equity interests (the “ Property Entity Interests ”) in the entities (the “ Property Entities ”) described on Schedule A-1 hereto, which Property Entities are the direct or indirect owners of the real properties described on Schedule A-1 hereto (the “ Indirect Properties ”), and (ii) undivided real property interests (the “ Direct Property Interests ”) in the real properties described on Schedule A-2 hereto (the “ Direct Properties ”). The Property Entity Interests, the Direct Property Interests, the Indirect Properties and the Direct Properties collectively are referred to herein as the “ Contributed Property ”; and

 

WHEREAS, in consideration for Contributor’s contribution, assignment and transfer of the Contributed Property to Transferee, Transferee shall assume the existing indebtedness encumbering the Contributed Property and desires to issue and deliver common units of limited partnership interests of Transferee in the amount described in Schedule B (the “ OP Unit Consideration ”) to the Contributor; and

 

WHEREAS, the Contributor now desires to contribute, assign and transfer the Contributed Property to Transferee; and

 

WHEREAS, Transferee desires to acquire and assume the Contributed Property from the Contributor, and issue and deliver to the Contributor the OP Unit Consideration, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

AGREEMENT

 

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

 

1.  Sale, Contribution and Assignment of Contributed Property . The Contributor hereby contributes, assigns and transfers the Contributed Property to Transferee, and Transferee hereby accepts transfer of and assumes the Contributed Property from the Contributor, pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, beneficial ownership of the Contributed Property shall be contributed, assigned and transferred (the “ Contribution ”) on the Effective Date.

 

2.  Consideration . In consideration for Contributor’s contribution, assignment and transfer of the Contributed Property to Transferee, Transferee hereby issues and delivers to the Contributor, and the Contributor hereby accepts transfer of, the OP Unit Consideration.

 

 

 

 

3.  Representations . Each party hereto hereby represents and warrants that, with respect to itself, each and every one of the following statements is true, correct and complete in every material respect as of the date of this Agreement:

 

(a) Such party is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of formation or incorporation, and has full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by such party of its obligations under this Agreement require no further action or approval of its members, of its board of managers, its board of directors or of any other individuals, entities or governing bodies in order to constitute this Agreement as a binding and enforceable obligation of such party.

 

(b) Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by such party has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or has resulted, or will result, in the acceleration of, any obligation under any existing articles of incorporation, bylaws, operating agreements, organizational documents, mortgages, indentures, lien agreements, notes, contracts, permits, judgments, decrees, orders, restrictive covenants, statutes, rules or regulations applicable to such party. With regard to the representations and warranties of Contributor only, Contributor has clear title to the Contributed Property.

 

(c) No authorization, consent, approval, permit or license of, or filing with, any governmental or public body or authority, or any other person or entity is required to authorize, or is required in connection with, the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the agreements contemplated hereby on the part of such party.

 

4.  Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement among the parties hereto and may not be modified or amended except by instrument in writing signed by the parties hereto.

 

5.  Governing Law . This Agreement shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of [Delaware].

 

6.  Severability . If any term, covenant or condition of this Agreement shall to any extent be deemed invalid or unenforceable, then the remainder of this Agreement, and the application of such term, covenant or condition, shall not be affected thereby, and shall be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

 

7.  Further Acts and Assurances . The Contributor and Transferee each covenant that they will take all necessary action to confirm the transactions contemplated hereby, including securing any necessary records of transfer and executing and delivering (or cause to be executed and delivered) all such agreements, instruments, certificates and other documents, and shall take (or cause to be taken) and do (or cause to be done) all things necessary, proper or advisable to consummate and make effective this Agreement.

 

8.  Tax Treatment . The parties to this Agreement intend that, for United States federal income tax purposes, the contribution and assignment of the Contributed Property shall be treated as a tax-deferred contribution under Internal Revenue Code section 721 by the Contributor to Transferee.

 

[Signatures on following page]

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have entered into this Agreement as of the date first above written.

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.,
   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

  POSTAL REALTY LP,
   
  By: Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    its general partner

 

  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

 

[Signature page to Postal Realty Trust, Inc. Contribution Agreement]

 

 

 

 

Schedule A-1

 

Property Entities

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Indirect Property

 

Seller’s Percentage Interest/Sold Entity   Indirect Property
100% Gary Glen Park Realty, LLC   Peru, IN
    Gary, IN
    Deville, LA
    Scotland, SD
     
100% interest in Hiler Buffalo, LLC   Glasgow, VA
    Chicago, IL
    Chester, WV
    Flora, IN
    Edina, MO
    Dobson, NC
    Chicago, IL
    Buffalo, NY
     
100% interest in PPP Assets, LLC   Spring Grove, PA
    Brockway, PA
    Knox, PA
    Frackville, PA
    Girardville, PA
    New Philadelphia, PA
    Orwigsburg, PA
    Ringtown, PA
    Shoemakersville, PA
    Tower City, PA
    Williamstown, PA
    Leola, PA
    Castleton on Hudson, NY
     
100% interest in Asset 20024, LLC   Sundown, TX
    Byron, MI
    Barton, VT
    Enosburg Falls, VT
    Fairlee, VT
    Groton, VT
    Hartford, VT
    Marlborough, NH
    Port Henry, NY
    Sheffield, VT
    South Royalton, VT
    Indian Rocks Beach, FL

 

Schedule A-1

 

 

    Abington, MA
    East Liverpool, OH
    Poseyville, IN
    Wadesville, IN
    Edgewood, IA
    Pelahatchie, MS
    Kimball, NE
    Winamac, IN
    Ralls, TX
     
15% interest in Harbor Station LLC   Milwaukee, WI
     
100% interest in A&J Assets LLC   El Paso, TX
    El Paso, TX
    Stinnett, TX
    Fabius, NY
    Pompey, NY
    Mount Vernon, IL
    Deltaville, VA
    Memphis, TN
    Memphis, TN
     
100% interest in UPH Merger Sub LLC   Adrian, PA – MPO
    Akron, MI - MPO
    Albany, LA - MPO
    Amelia, LA - MPO
    Amoret, MO - MPO
    Arcadia, OK - MPO
    Archer, IA - MPO
    Barton City, MI - MPO
    Basalt, ID - MPO
    Beach, ND - MPO
    Blanco, OK - MPO
    Blandon, PA - MPO

 

Schedule A-1

 

 

    Boswell, PA - MPO
    Briscoe, TX - MPO
    Brownfield, PA - MPO
    Camp Crook, SD - MPO
    Caney, OK - MPO
    Carencro, LA - MPO
    Castlewood, SD - MPO
    Cedarville, AR - MPO
    Chalk Hill, PA - MPO
    Clancy, MT - MPO
    Cochranville, PA - MPO
    Cortland, NE - MPO
    De Witt, MO - MPO
    Dewar, OK - MPO
    Dracut, MA - MPO
    Dunlap, TN - MPO
    Eagle, WI - MPO
    Eden Valley, MN - MPO
    Exline, IA - MPO
    Falcon, MO - MPO
    Flippin, AR - MPO
    Folsom, LA - MPO
    Fountain, MI - MPO
    Foyil, OK - MPO
    Fruitland, ID - MPO

 

Schedule A-1

 

 

    Gallitzin, PA - MPO
    Gillett, TX - MPO
    Glenmora, LA - MPO
    Grand Cane, LA - MPO
    Grantville, KS - MPO
    Guy, TX - MPO
    Hadley, MA - MPO
    Halls, TN - MPO
    Hallsville, TX - MPO
    Hamer, ID - MPO
    Harris, MN - MPO
    Hartland, MI - MPO
    Herminie, PA - MPO
    Hillsdale, OK - MPO
    Hulbert, MI - MPO
    Huntington, MA - MPO
    Iroquois, SD - MPO
    Island Park, ID - MPO
    Jackson Center, PA - MPO
    Julian, PA - MPO
    Kansas, OK - MPO
    Ketchum, OK - MPO
    Knobel, AR - MPO
    Lake Andes, SD - MPO
    Lake Cormorant, MS - MPO

 

Schedule A-1

 

 

    Lake Nebagamon, WI - MPO
    Lake, MI - MPO
    Langley, OK - MPO
    Le Center, MN - MPO
    Liberty, MS - MPO
    Lincoln, AR - MPO
    Luther, OK - MPO
    Maiden Rock, WI - MPO
    Malone, FL - MPO
    Manvel, TX - MPO
    Marietta, IL - MPO
    Marvell, AR - MPO
    Maysville, NC - MPO
    Meeker, OK - MPO
    Midvale, ID - MPO
    Mill Creek, OK - MPO
    Monroe, OK - MPO
    Montello, WI - MPO
    Monterey, LA - MPO
    Monteview, ID - MPO
    Mooringsport, LA - MPO
    Morganton, GA - MPO
    Morrisdale, PA - MPO
    Mount Washington, KY - MPO

 

Schedule A-1

 

 

    New Haven, MI - MPO
    New Salem, PA - MPO
    New Waverly, TX - MPO
    Newcastle, OK - MPO
    Noble, LA - MPO
    Nolensville, TN - MPO
    North Waterboro, ME - MPO
    Oakland, ME - MPO
    Ola, AR - MPO
    Paris, ID - MPO
    Parsons, TN - MPO
    Pewaukee, WI - MPO
    Pilot Knob, MO - MPO
    Plainview, AR - MPO
    Powersville, MO - MPO
    Prue, OK - MPO
    Raymond, SD - MPO
    Richey, MT - MPO
    Ridgetop, TN - MPO
    Rozet, WY - MPO
    Saint Charles, ID - MPO
    Sand Creek, MI - MPO
    Saucier, MS - MPO

 

Schedule A-1

 

 

    Saxton, PA - MPO
    Sheldon, ND - MPO
    Shell, WY - MPO
    Sherburn, MN - MPO
    Shirley, AR - MPO
    Slippery Rock, PA - MPO
    Smokerun, PA - MPO
    Snow Hill, MD - MPO
    Somers, CT - MPO
    Spavinaw, OK - MPO
    Spencer, OK - MPO
    Sprague, NE - MPO
    Storden, MN - MPO
    Strong, AR - MPO
    Stuart, OK - MPO
    Tetonia, ID - MPO
    Towner, ND - MPO
    Trego, MT - MPO
    Troy, TX - MPO
    Turtletown, TN - MPO
    Vici, OK - MPO
    Wadsworth, NV - MPO
    Warden, WA - MPO
    Waskom, TX - MPO
    West, MS - MPO

 

Schedule A-1

 

 

    White, GA - MPO
    Wilmer, AL - MPO
    Wilson, MI - MPO
    Winburne, PA - MPO
    Woodbine, KY - MPO
    Yeagertown, PA - MPO

 

Schedule A-1

 

 

Schedule A-2

 

Direct Properties

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property

 

Seller’s Percentage Interest   Property
100%   Barstow, IL
    Carbon Cliff, IL
    Hillsdale, IL
    Little York, IL
    Lynn Center, IL
    New Windsor, IL
    Rapids City, IL
    Alpha, IL
    Orion, IL
    Seatonville, IL
    Hancock, NY
    Elba, NY
    Tulsa, OK
    Vanndale, AR
    Cadwell, GA
    Colquitt, GA
    Meansville, GA
    Tacoma, WA
    Leslie, MI
    Springport, MI
    Chesaning, MI
    Aurora, CO
    West Sacramento, CA
    Oakdale, PA
    Princess Anne, MD
    Elizabeth, PA

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.4

 

CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

 

This CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of May 14, 2019 by and among Andrew Spodek, IDJ Holdings, LLC and Tayaka Holdings, LLC (“ Contributor ”), Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Operating Partnership ”), and Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”), the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership.

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , Contributor is the record and beneficial owner of equity interests in the amount or percentage described on Exhibit A hereto (the “ Contributed Interests ”) in each of the entities described in Exhibit A hereto (each, a “ Contributed Entity ” and collectively, the “ Contributed Entities ”);

 

WHEREAS , the Contributed Entities are the direct or indirect owners of the properties described on Exhibit A hereto (each a “ Property ” and collectively, the “ Properties ”); and

 

WHEREAS , Contributor desires to contribute the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership, and the Operating Partnership desires to acquire the Contributed Interests from Contributor, on the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE , for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE CONTRIBUTION

 

1.1 Contribution of Contributed Interests . Contributor irrevocably agrees to contribute, transfer and assign at the Closing (as defined herein) the Contributed Interests, together with any other interests such Contributor may have in any of the Contributed Entities, and the Operating Partnership agrees to accept transfer of the Contributed Interests and any such other interests pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement. Contributor shall transfer the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto, except as described on Exhibit A hereto.

 

1.2 Consideration .

 

(a) Consideration Amount . The total consideration (the “ Consideration ”) for which Contributor agrees to contribute, transfer and assign the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership, and for which the Operating Partnership agrees to pay, issue or deliver to Contributor, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing shall be the amount of cash and number of common units of limited partnership interests of the Operating Partnership (“ OP Units ”) set forth on Exhibit A as “Total Consideration.” The Consideration may be adjusted, upward or downward, by the amount of any adjustments arising from the Prorations (as defined herein). Any decrease in the Consideration as a result of the Prorations will be deducted first from the cash portion of the Consideration, if any, and the balance will be deducted from the OP Units. Any increase in the Consideration as a result of the Prorations will adjust the Consideration payable hereunder in the form of OP Units based on the IPO Price.

 

 

 

 

(b) OP Units . Any portion of the Consideration payable hereunder to be in the form of OP Units shall be registered in the name of Contributor. OP Units will not be delivered to Contributor unless Section 2.2(j) hereof is true and correct as of the Closing Date (as defined herein). No fractional OP Units will be issued and OP Units will be rounded to the nearest whole number. The Consideration, whether in cash, in OP Units or a combination thereof, may be reduced by the amount the Operating Partnership reasonably determines must be withheld for tax purposes. The rights and obligations of holders of OP Units as of the Closing will be as set forth in the First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Operating Partnership (the “ Partnership Agreement ”), the form of which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the REIT’s Registration Statement on Form S-11 (File No. 333- 230684), which the REIT filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) on April 2, 2019. Although initially the OP Units will not be certificated, certificates, if any, subsequently evidencing the OP Units will bear appropriate legends (i) indicating that the OP Units have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), (ii) indicating that the Partnership Agreement will restrict the transfer of the OP Units, and (iii) describing the ownership limitations and transfer restrictions imposed by the charter of the REIT with respect to shares of the REIT’s capital stock.

 

1.3 No Further Interest . Contributor acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by Contributor, the Contributed Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the Operating Partnership, or a subsidiary thereof, and Contributor shall no longer be an equity holder of any of the Contributed Entities, shall no longer be entitled to receive any distributions from any of the Contributed Entities, and shall have no further right, title or interest in any of the Contributed Interests, the Contributed Entities or the Property Entities, other than indirectly through the ownership of any OP Units.

 

1.4 Tax Consequences to Contributor . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, including without limitation the use of words and phrases such as “sell,” “sale,” “purchase,” and “pay,” the parties hereto acknowledge and agree that (i) all indebtedness to be assumed by the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates pursuant to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (other than the Minnesota loan and the Reynoldsburg loan) be treated as “qualified liabilities” within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.707-5(a)(5); (ii) the Cash Consideration be treated as a reimbursement of preformation capital expenditures incurred by the Contributor pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.707-4(d); and (iii) therefore, the Contribution be treated as a nontaxable contribution by the Contributor of the Contributed Interests, Contributed Entity or Property to the Operating Partnership under Section 721(a) of the Code, with no gain required to be recognized by the Contributor or any partner in the Contributor as a result thereof. The Parties further intend that any liabilities of the Operating Partnership be allocated to its partners in a manner consistent with the guarantees contemplated by the Tax Protection Agreement. Except as otherwise provided in the Tax Protection Agreement, no Party shall take any position on any tax return that is inconsistent with the foregoing treatment except as required by law.

 

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1.5 Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

 

Contributor’s Percentage Interest ” means, with respect to each Contributed Entity, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A hereto under the heading “Contributed Interest”, which reflects the Contributor’s percentage ownership interest in each Contributed Entity pursuant to and in accordance with the applicable Governing Agreement (as defined herein) of the Contributed Entity.

 

IPO ” means the underwritten initial public offering of shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the REIT.

 

IPO Price ” means the public offering price set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the “ Prospectus ”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

Post-Closing Tax Period ” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period beginning after the Closing Date.

 

Pre-Closing Tax Period ” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date.

 

Property Entity ” means an entity owning a Property, as set forth on Exhibit A hereto.

 

Prorations ” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which the Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date. Contributor shall be entitled to Contributor’s share of all income and responsible for Contributor’s share of all expenses of the Contributed Interest, Contributed Entity and the Property for the period of time up to but not including the Closing Date, and the Operating Partnership shall be entitled to all such income and responsible for all such expenses for the period of time after and including the Closing Date. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the following items of income and expense shall be prorated on the Closing Date:

 

(A) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Property shall be prorated at the Closing;

 

(B) Utilities . All telephone, electric, sewer, water and other utility bills, trash removal bills, janitorial and maintenance service bills and all other expenses relating to a Property, if any, that are obligations of the Property Entity and which are allocable to the period prior to the Closing Date shall be determined and paid, or caused to be paid, by the Property Entity or Contributed Entity before the Closing, if possible, or if such is not determinable before the Closing, then the Parties shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to determine and pay such amounts as promptly as possible following the Closing and the Operating Partnership may withhold from any cash amount of the Consideration payable at the Closing hereunder an amount of cash reasonably estimated to cover any estimated Proration for the items described in this subsection (B);

 

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(C) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Property and all other income from the Property shall be prorated at the Closing; and

 

(D) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the county in which the Property is located shall be prorated at the Closing.

 

Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement ” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

Straddle Period ” means a taxable period beginning before and ending after the Closing Date.

 

ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Representations by the Operating Partnership . The Operating Partnership hereby represents and warrants to Contributor that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power . The Operating Partnership is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Operating Partnership of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the Operating Partnership and require no further action or approval of the Operating Partnership’s partners or of any other individuals or entities in order to constitute this Agreement as a binding and enforceable obligation of the Operating Partnership.

 

(b) OP Units Validly Issued . The OP Units, when issued in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Partnership Agreement, will be duly and validly authorized and issued, free of any preemptive or similar rights, and will be without any obligation to restore capital, except as required by the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act (the “ Limited Partnership Act ”).

 

4

 

 

2.2 Representations by Contributor . Contributor hereby represents and warrants to the Operating Partnership that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power; Due Authorization . Contributor, if an entity or trust, is duly incorporated, formed or organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of its state of incorporation, formation or organization. Contributor has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by Contributor of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of Contributor and require no further action or approval of Contributor’s members, partners, stockholders, managers, board of directors, trustees or of any other individuals or entities, as applicable, in order to constitute this Agreement as a binding and enforceable obligation of Contributor. This Agreement, and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of Contributor pursuant to this Agreement, constitutes, or when executed and delivered will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of Contributor, enforceable against Contributor in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

(b) Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by Contributor has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to Contributor or to any Contributed Interests, any Contributed Entity or any Property Entity.

 

(c) Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting Contributor in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of Contributor, any Contributed Entity, Property Entity or Property, (3) could adversely affect the ability of Contributor to perform its obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the Contributed Interests, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the Contributed Interests, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

(d) Good Title . Exhibit A accurately sets forth Contributor’s Percentage Interest. Contributor is the sole record and beneficial owner of the Contributed Interests and has full power and authority to convey the Contributed Interests pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. Contributor has good and marketable title to the Contributed Interests. No person has any community property rights, by virtue of marriage or otherwise, with respect to the Contributed Interests. The Contributed Interests are free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or any other matters affecting title thereto and at the Closing will be contributed to the Operating Partnership free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or other matters affecting title thereto, except as described on Exhibit A hereto. No other person or entity has an option to purchase or a right of first refusal to purchase the Contributed Interests nor are there any agreements or understandings with respect to the voting, ownership or disposition of the Contributed Interests that could adversely affect Contributor’s ability to perform its obligations hereunder or the Operating Partnership’s ownership of the Contributed Interests following the Closing.

 

5

 

 

(e) Contributed Interests . There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Contributed Interests or any equity interest in any Contributed Entity, Property Entity or Property that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

(f) No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by Contributor has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any Governing Agreement, contract or agreement of any Contributed Entity, or among the partners, members or stockholders of any Contributed Entity, relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the contribution, acquisition and transfer of the Contributed Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g) Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, Contributor shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Contributed Interests or the Operating Partnership’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Property or any Contributed Entity or Property Entity after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

 

(h) Governing Agreements . Contributor has performed all of its obligations under the partnership agreement, limited liability company agreement, operating agreement, charter and bylaws, as such may have been amended from time to time, as applicable, of each Contributed Entity (each, a “ Governing Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Governing Agreements ”).

 

(i) Securities Law Matters .

 

(1) In deciding to engage in the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including, if applicable, acquiring OP Units, neither Contributor nor any equity holder thereof is relying upon any representations made to it by the Operating Partnership, or any of its partners, officers, employees, or agents that are not contained herein. Contributor is aware of the risks involved in investing in the OP Units and in the securities issuable upon redemption of the OP Units. Contributor is knowledgeable, sophisticated and experienced in business and financial matters and fully understands the limitations on transfer imposed by the federal securities laws and as described in this Agreement and related materials, including the Partnership Agreement. Contributor has received the Partnership Agreement and related materials, including the registration statement filed by the REIT with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the IPO, has reviewed all documents and has had an opportunity to ask questions of, and to receive answers from, the Operating Partnership and the REIT or a person or persons authorized to act on their behalf, concerning the terms and conditions of an investment in the OP Units and the financial condition, affairs, and business of the Operating Partnership and the REIT. Contributor confirms that all documents, records, and information pertaining to its investment in OP Units that have been requested by Contributor have been made available or delivered to Contributor prior to the date hereof.

 

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(2) Contributor and each equity holder thereof understands that the offer and sale of OP Units have not been registered under any state or federal securities laws and are instead being offered and sold in reliance on an exemption from such registration requirements and that the Operating Partnership’s reliance on such exemption is predicated in part on the accuracy and completeness of the representations and warranties of Contributor contained herein. The OP Units issuable to Contributor are being acquired by Contributor solely for its own account, for investment, and are not being acquired with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any distribution, subdivision, or fractionalization thereof, in violation of such laws, and Contributor does not have any present intention to enter into any contract, undertaking, agreement, or arrangement with respect to any such resale.

 

(3) Contributor is able to bear the economic risk of holding the OP Units for an indefinite period and is able to afford the complete loss of its investment in the OP Units.

 

(4) Contributor understands that no federal agency (including the SEC) or state agency has made or will make any finding or determination as to the fairness of an investment in the OP Units (including as to the value of the Consideration payable in OP Units).

 

(5) Contributor understands that there is no established public, private or other market for the OP Units to be issued to Contributor hereunder and it is not anticipated that there will be any public, private or other market for such OP Units in the foreseeable future.

 

(6) Contributor understands that Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act is not currently available with respect to the sale of OP Units.

 

(j) Accredited Investor . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units as some or all of the Consideration as set forth on Exhibit A , Contributor is an “accredited investor,” as that term is defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D under the Securities Act, and has previously provided the Operating Partnership and the REIT with a duly executed questionnaire confirming Contributor’s accredited investor status. No event or circumstance has occurred since delivery of such questionnaire to make the statements therein false or misleading.

 

(k) Tax Matters . Contributor represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own tax advisors advice regarding the tax consequences of (i) the transfer of the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership and the receipt of OP Units and/or cash or deemed assumption of debt as the Consideration therefor, (ii) its admission as a limited partner of the Operating Partnership, if applicable, (iii) any other transaction contemplated by this Agreement and (iv) ownership of OP Units, including the effect of Section 704(c) of the Code. Neither the Operating Partnership nor the REIT has made any representation to Contributor regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and Contributor further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the Operating Partnership or the Operating Partnership’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

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(l) Bankruptcy with respect to Contributor . No Act of Bankruptcy (as defined below) has occurred with respect to Contributor. As used herein, “ Act of Bankruptcy ” means if Contributor or any equity holder, partner, manager or director thereof shall (A) apply for or consent to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator of itself or of all or a substantial part of its property, (B) admit in writing its inability to pay its debts as they become due, (C) make a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (D) file a voluntary petition or commence a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) be adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) file a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fail to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against it in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any entity action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

 

(m) Brokerage Commission . Contributor has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions described herein.

 

(n) No Other Ownership . Except for the Contributed Interests, neither Contributor nor any of its affiliates owns any interest in any Property other than through the Contributed Interests.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a) Subject to Section 3.5 hereof, all representations and warranties of Contributor contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b) Subject to the limitations set forth in Section 3.4 hereof, following the Closing, Contributor shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of its representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by Contributor pursuant thereto.

 

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3.2 General Indemnification .

 

(a) From and after the Closing Date, Contributor shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the Operating Partnership and the REIT, and their respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party ”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of Contributor contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by Contributor pursuant thereto. In each case, Contributor shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel and any necessary local counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties).

 

(b) Contributor shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting a third-party claim relating to the Contributed Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to the Closing.

 

(c) With respect to any indemnification claim by an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the Operating Partnership agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from Contributor until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Operating Partnership or the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the Operating Partnership may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by Contributor for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse Contributor in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by Contributor to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by Contributor with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by Contributor for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

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3.3 Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to Contributor, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to Contributor will not relieve Contributor from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of Contributor by reason of the inability or failure of Contributor (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to Contributor, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit Contributor, at Contributor’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by Contributor and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that Contributor shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by Contributor. If Contributor shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of Contributor and at Contributor’s sole cost and expense (subject to the limitations in Section 3.4 hereof).

 

3.4 Limitations on Indemnification Under Section 3.2(a) .

 

(a) Contributor shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Parties under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration (valuing OP Units at the IPO Price) and then only to the extent of such excess. Contributor’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

(b) Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of Contributor and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Parties shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III, (and agree to treat any return of OP Units in satisfaction of indemnification obligations hereunder as an adjustment to the Consideration delivered to Contributor hereunder). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, Contributor shall not be liable to the Indemnified Parties for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Parties.

 

(c) The limitations in this Section 3.4 shall not apply to any obligations of Contributor with respect to Prorations under this Agreement.

 

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3.5 Limitation Period .

 

(a) Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b) If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between Contributor and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by Contributor in the form of cash or OP Units. To the extent indemnification is made through delivery by Contributor of OP Units, such OP Units shall be valued at an amount per OP Unit equal to the IPO Price. Contributor hereby authorizes the REIT, as general partner of the Operating Partnership, to take all such action as may be necessary to amend the Partnership Agreement, and any exhibits or schedules thereto, to reflect the delivery of any OP Units by Contributor to the Operating Partnership as an indemnification payment hereunder and to reflect that Contributor has no further right, title or interest with respect to any such OP Units.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

4.1 Covenants of Contributor .

 

(a) Satisfaction of Conditions . Contributor hereby covenants that Contributor shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the Operating Partnership’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the Operating Partnership shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the Operating Partnership in writing.

 

(b) Consent to Transfers . Contributor hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to Contributor under the Governing Agreements or otherwise with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Contributed Entity, Property Entity or Property or any other company or property being contributed or transferred to the Operating Partnership pursuant to a separate contribution or other agreement.

 

(c) No Disposition or Encumbrance of Contributed Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, Contributor shall not, without the prior written consent of the Operating Partnership: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Contributed Interests or all or any portion of its interest in any Property Partnership or Property; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner the Contributed Interests, the Property Entity or the Property.

 

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(d) Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, Contributor shall, to the extent within its control, cause each Contributed Entity and Property Entity to conduct its business in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, and shall, to the extent within its control, not permit any Contributed Entity or any Property Entity without the prior written consent of the Operating Partnership, to: (i) enter into any material transaction not in the ordinary course of business; (ii) mortgage, pledge or encumber any assets of the Contributed Entity any Property Entity or any Property, (iii) cause or permit any change to the existing use of any Property; (iv) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (v) file an entity classification election pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 301.7701-3(c) on Internal Revenue Service Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) to treat the Contributed Entity as an association taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes; (vi) make or change any other tax elections; (vii) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (viii) change any annual tax accounting period; (ix) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (x) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return ”); (xi) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (xii) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xiii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiv) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

4.2 Tax Matters .

 

(a) Tax Returns.

 

(A) Pre-Closing Tax Periods . Contributor shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns (other than amended Tax Returns) of the Contributed Entities for any Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and Contributor shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such Pre-Closing Tax Periods. Such Tax Returns shall be prepared in a manner consistent with past practice, except as otherwise required by law, and on such Tax Returns, no position shall be taken, election made or method adopted that is inconsistent with positions taken, elections made or methods used in preparing and filing similar Tax Returns in prior periods (including positions, elections or methods that would have the effect of deferring income to periods ending after the Closing Date or accelerating deductions to periods ending on or before the Closing Date). For the avoidance of doubt, the Operating Partnership will have authority to sign any Tax Returns relating to the Contributed Entities that are filed after the Closing Date.

 

(B) Straddle Periods and Post-Closing Periods . The Operating Partnership shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns of the Contributed Entities for all taxable periods other than the Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the Operating Partnership shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such taxable periods. At least 45 days prior to the deadline for the filing of any Tax Return for a Straddle Period (and before the Operating Partnership files such Tax Return), the Operating Partnership shall furnish to Contributor a draft of such Tax Return and Contributor shall have the right to review, provide written comments on, and approve the portion of such draft Tax Return that relates to Taxes allocable to the portion of the Straddle Period for which Contributor is responsible.

 

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(b) Tax Matters . Contributor shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the Operating Partnership for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences, including all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

(A) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation in Section 1.14 of the Representations, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2;

 

(B) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Pre-Closing Tax Period: (i) all such Taxes of the Contributed Entities; (ii) all such Taxes of any other Person that the Contributed Entities are liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred in such Pre-Closing Tax Period; and (iii) all Taxes resulting from a Contributed Entity being a member of, or leaving, during a Pre-Closing Tax Period, an affiliated group of corporations that files a consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return for federal, state, local or foreign Tax purposes; and

 

(C) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Straddle Period: (i) the Taxes of a Contributed Entity attributable to the portion of such Straddle Period that ends on the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) ; and (ii) the Taxes of any other person that a Contributed Entity is liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred on or before the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) .

 

For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Contributor under this Section 4.2 shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Article III .

 

(c) Allocation of Taxes . For purposes of determining the amount of Taxes that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods and Straddle Periods for purposes of any obligation to indemnify for Taxes under Section 4.2(b) the parties agree to use the following conventions:

 

(A) Taxes in the form of interest, penalties, additions to tax or other additional amounts that are actually incurred, accrued, assessed or similarly charged on or after the Closing Date but that relate to Taxes that accrued on or before the Closing Date shall be treated as occurring prior to the Closing Date;

 

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(B) Except for Taxes for which the Operating Partnership is responsible hereunder and for real estate taxes (apportioned pursuant to Section 1.5 ), for all Taxes that are payable with respect to any Straddle Period, the portion of such Tax that is attributable to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date shall be allocated between the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the portion of the period beginning after the Closing Date using the following conventions:

 

(1) in the case of such Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, net or gross income, Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any sale, receipt, use, transfer or assignments of property or other asset, or Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any payment or accrual of any amounts (including, without limitation, dividends, interest, or wages), the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall be the amount of Tax that would be payable for such portion of the Straddle Period if such person filed a separate Tax Return with respect to such Taxes or Taxes solely for the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date using a “closing of the books” methodology for allocating items of such Tax Return; and

 

(2) in the case of all other such Taxes, the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall equal to the amount of Taxes for the entire Straddle Period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of calendar days in the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the denominator of which is the number of calendar days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

For purposes of clause (i), any item determined on an annual or periodic basis (including amortization and depreciation deductions and the effects of graduated rates) shall be allocated to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date based on the relative number of days in such portion of the Straddle Period as compared to the number of days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

(d) Survival . The obligations of Contributor to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that Contributor’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, Contributor’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such Contributor’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of Contributor under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

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(e) Contributor and the Operating Partnership shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Contributed Interests, the Contributed Entities, their subsidiaries, the Property Entities or the Properties as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The Operating Partnership shall promptly notify Contributor upon receipt by the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to the income, properties or operations of any of the Contributed Entities, their subsidiaries, the Property Entities or their subsidiaries or with respect to any Property and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of Contributor with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. Contributor shall promptly notify the Operating Partnership in writing upon receipt by Contributor or any of its affiliates of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments relating to the income, properties or operations of any of the Contributed Entities, the Property Entities or their subsidiaries or with respect to any Property. Each of the Operating Partnership and Contributor may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that Contributor shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Contributor has acknowledged liability (except as a partner of the Operating Partnership) for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the Operating Partnership shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the Operating Partnership nor Contributor may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates (other than on Contributor or any of its affiliates as a partner of the Operating Partnership) without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. Contributor and the Operating Partnership shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Contributed Entities, the Property Entities, their subsidiaries, and the Properties, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

(f) For purposes of allocating items of income, gain, loss and deduction with respect to the Property and/or the Contributed Interests in the manner required by Section 704(c) of the Code, the Operating Partnership shall employ, and shall cause any entity controlled by the Operating Partnership which holds title to the Property or the Contributed Interests to employ, the “traditional method” (without curative allocations) as set forth in Treasury Regulations section 1.704-3(b)(1).

 

4.3 Relationship to Contributed Entities . Contributor and the Operating Partnership acknowledge and agree that, from and after the Closing, Contributor shall no longer be a member, partner, stockholder or equity owner, or, if applicable, managing member or general partner, of any Contributed Entity and shall have no rights or benefits under any Governing Agreement.

 

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ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1 Conditions to the Operating Partnership’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Operating Partnership’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Operating Partnership’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

(b) Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

(c) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by Contributor pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the Operating Partnership, Contributor shall have delivered a certificate to the Operating Partnership to such effect in regard to Contributor’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

 

(d) Performance . Contributor shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 5.2 hereof.

 

(e) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

(f) Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, members or stockholders of any Contributed Entity, Property Entity or their subsidiaries, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

 

(g) Reliance on Regulation D . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units, the Operating Partnership shall, based on the advice of its counsel and the representations made by Contributor in Contributor’s Investor Questionnaire, be reasonably satisfied that the issuance of OP Units to Contributor may be made without registration under the Securities Act in reliance on Regulation D under the Securities Act.

 

(h) Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(i) No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to any of the Contributed Interests or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Property, Property Entity or Contributed Entity.

 

(j) Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The Operating Partnership shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the Operating Partnership and its counsel.

 

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5.2 Conditions to Contributor’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, Contributor’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to Contributor’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Operating Partnership pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b) Performance . The Operating Partnership shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

(c) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1 Closing . The consummation and closing of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement (the “ Closing ”) shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the Operating Partnership may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein (the “ Closing Date ”), or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2 Contributor’s Deliveries . At the Closing, Contributor shall deliver the following to the Operating Partnership in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the Operating Partnership by Contributor:

 

(a) Assignment of Contributed Interests . An Assignment, in substantially the form of Exhibit C attached hereto.

 

(b) Execution of Partnership Agreement . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units, signature pages of the Partnership Agreement duly executed by Contributor, as limited partner.

 

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(c) FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from Contributor certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Code that Contributor is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

 

(d) Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the Operating Partnership or required hereby.

 

6.3 Default Remedies . If Contributor defaults in performing any of Contributor’s obligations under this Agreement, the Operating Partnership shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from Contributor’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and Contributor’s obligation to convey the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Notices . Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice, demand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

Operating Partnership:

 

Postal Re¢alty LP

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 E. Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Attention: James V. Davidson

Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Contributor:

 

Andrew Spodek

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

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Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

7.2 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitutes the entire agreement and supersedes each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

7.4 Governing Law .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

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7.5 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

7.6 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7 Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

7.9 Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder are for the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

20

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  CONTRIBUTOR :
   
  /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
   
  TAYAKA HOLDINGS, LLC
     
    By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
      Name: Andrew Spodek
      Title: Member
     
  IDJ HOLDINGS, LLC
     
    By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
      Name: Andrew Spodek
      Title: Member
     
  OPERATING PARTNERSHIP :
   
  POSTAL REALTY LP, a Delaware limited partnership
   
  By: Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    its general partner
     
    By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
      Name:  Andrew Spodek
      Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

[Signature page to AS Contribution Agreement]

 

 

 

 

  REIT
   
  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC., a Maryland corporation
   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name:  Andrew Spodek
      Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

[Signature page to AS Contribution Agreement]

 

 

 

 

Exhibit A

 

Contributed Entities, Contributed Interests, Property, Property
Entity and Indebtedness

 

Contributor

Contributed
Interest/

Contributed Entity

Property Indebtedness
Andrew Spodek 100% interest in
Alabama Postal
Holdings, LLC
Cedar Bluff, AL -
85% interest in
Harbor Station, LLC
Milwaukee, WI -
100% interest in
Illinois Postal
Holdings, LLC
Trenton, IL -
100% interest in Iowa
Postal Holdings, LLC
Spirit Lake, IA -
100% interest in
Mass Postal
Holdings, LLC
Auburn, MA -
East Weymouth, MA -
North Quincy, MA -
Sharon, MA -
North Weymouth,
MA
-
Maynard, MA -
100% interest in
Michigan Postal
Holdings, LLC
Detroit, MI -
Portland, MI -
Shepherd, MI -
100% interest in
Missouri &
Minnesota Postal
Holdings, LLC
Saint Ann, MO -
Shelbina, MO -
La Grange, MO -
Butterfield, MN $91,553.10
Fulda, MN $104,523.12
Mountain Lake, MN $103,760.18
Trimont, MN $85,449.56
100% interest in Ohio Reynoldsburg, Ohio $924,161.48

 

Exhibit A

 

 

 

 

  Postal Holdings, LLC Rittman, OH -
Cincinnati, OH -
Camden, OH -
Norwood, OH -
Toledo, OH -
100% interest in
Pennsylvania Postal
Holdings, LLC
Denver, PA $607,748.82
Nescopeck, PA -
Williamsburg, PA -
Middleburg, PA $202,584.76
Dillsburg, PA $280,500.08
Reynoldsville, PA $187,000.06
Glen Rock, PA $280,500.08
100% interest in
Postal Holdings, LLC
Galena, AK -
Fairview, OK -
100% interest in
Tennessee Postal
Holdings, LLC
Chattanooga, TN -
Woodbury, TN -
100% interest in
Wisconsin Postal
Holdings LLC
Milwaukee, WI -
Milwaukee, WI -
Stevens Point, WI -
Marinette, WI -

 

Total Consideration

 

Total

Consideration

888,152 OP
       Units      

 

Exhibit A

 

 

 

 

Exhibit C

 

Assignment

 

The undersigned (“ Assignor ”), for good and valuable consideration paid to the Assignor by Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (“ Assignee ”), pursuant to the Contribution Agreement dated as of , 2019, by and among Assignor, Assignee and Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “ Agreement ”), and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, good and indefeasible right, title and interest to the [partnership or limited liability company interests/shares of common stock] described on Schedule A attached hereto, including, without limitation, all right, title and interest, if any, of the undersigned in and to the assets of each such [partnership/limited liability company/corporation] and the right to receive distributions of money, profits and other assets from each such entity, presently existing or hereafter at any time arising or accruing, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto, except as described on Schedule A hereto.

 

The undersigned, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby covenants and agrees that, at any time and from time to time after the date hereof, upon the written request of Assignee, the undersigned will, without further consideration, do, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be done, executed, acknowledged and delivered, each of and all of such further acts, deeds, assignments, transfers, conveyances and assurances as may reasonably be required by Assignee in order to assign, transfer, set over, convey, assure and confirm unto and vest in Assignee, its successors and assigns, title to the interests described in Schedule A attached hereto.

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Assignment to be signed by a duly authorized officer this ___ day of _____, 2019.

 

  ___________, a
  ____________ _____________

 

  By:  
  Name:
  Title:

 

Exhibit C

 

 

 

 

Schedule A

 

    Contributed       Property    
Contributed Entity   Interest (%)   Property   Entity   Indebtedness
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.5

 

CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

 

This CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of May 14, 2019 by and among Nationwide Postal Management Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“ Contributor ”) and Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Operating Partnership ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , Contributor is the record and beneficial owner of equity interests in the amount or percentage described on Exhibit A hereto (the “ Contributed Interests ”) in each of the entities described in Exhibit A hereto (each, a “ Contributed Entity ” and collectively, the “ Contributed Entities ”);

 

WHEREAS , Contributor desires to contribute the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership, and the Operating Partnership desires to acquire the Contributed Interests from Contributor, on the terms and subject to the conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE , for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE CONTRIBUTION

 

1.1 Contribution of Contributed Interests . Contributor irrevocably agrees to contribute, transfer and assign at the Closing (as defined herein) the Contributed Interests, together with any other interests such Contributor may have in any of the Contributed Entities, and the Operating Partnership agrees to accept transfer of the Contributed Interests and any such other interests pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement. Contributor shall transfer the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

1.2 Consideration .

 

(a)  Consideration Amount . The total consideration (the “ Consideration ”) for which Contributor agrees to contribute, transfer and assign the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership, and for which the Operating Partnership agrees to pay, issue or deliver to Contributor, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing shall be the amount of cash and number of common units of limited partnership interests of the Operating Partnership (“ OP Units ”) set forth on Exhibit A  as “Total Consideration.” The Consideration may be adjusted, upward or downward, by the amount of any adjustments arising from the Prorations (as defined herein). Any decrease in the Consideration as a result of the Prorations will be deducted first from the cash portion of the Consideration, if any, and the balance will be deducted from the OP Units. Any increase in the Consideration as a result of the Prorations will adjust the Consideration payable hereunder in the form of OP Units based on the IPO Price.

 

 

 

 

 

(b)  OP Units . Any portion of the Consideration payable hereunder to be in the form of OP Units shall be registered in the name of Contributor. OP Units will not be delivered to Contributor unless Section 2.2(j) hereof is true and correct as of the Closing Date (as defined herein). No fractional OP Units will be issued and OP Units will be rounded to the nearest whole number. The Consideration, whether in cash, in OP Units or a combination thereof, may be reduced by the amount the Operating Partnership reasonably determines must be withheld for tax purposes. The rights and obligations of holders of OP Units as of the Closing will be as set forth in the First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Operating Partnership (the “ Partnership Agreement ”), the form of which was filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Postal Realty Trust, Inc.’s, a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”) Registration Statement on Form S-11 (File No. 333- 230684), which the REIT filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) on April 2, 2019. Although initially the OP Units will not be certificated, certificates, if any, subsequently evidencing the OP Units will bear appropriate legends (i) indicating that the OP Units have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), (ii) indicating that the Partnership Agreement will restrict the transfer of the OP Units, and (iii) describing the ownership limitations and transfer restrictions imposed by the charter of the REIT with respect to shares of the REIT’s capital stock.

 

1.3  No Further Interest . Contributor acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by Contributor, the Contributed Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the Operating Partnership, or a subsidiary thereof, and Contributor shall no longer be an equity holder of any of the Contributed Entities, shall no longer be entitled to receive any distributions from any of the Contributed Entities, and shall have no further right, title or interest in any of the Contributed Interests or the Contributed Entities, other than indirectly through the ownership of any OP Units.

 

1.4  Tax Consequences to Contributor . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, including without limitation the use of words and phrases such as “sell,” “sale,” “purchase,” and “pay,” the parties hereto acknowledge and agree that the Contribution be treated as a nontaxable contribution by the Contributor of the Contributed Interests or Contributed Entity to the Operating Partnership under Section 721(a) of the Code, with no gain required to be recognized by the Contributor or any partner in the Contributor as a result thereof. The Parties further intend that any liabilities of the Operating Partnership be allocated to its partners in a manner consistent with the guarantees contemplated by the Tax Protection Agreement. Except as otherwise provided in the Tax Protection Agreement, no Party shall take any position on any tax return that is inconsistent with the foregoing treatment except as required by law.

 

1.5  Definitions. As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

 

Contributor’s Percentage Interest ” means, with respect to each Contributed Entity, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A hereto under the heading “Contributed Interest”, which reflects the Contributor’s percentage ownership interest in each Contributed Entity pursuant to and in accordance with the applicable Governing Agreement (as defined herein) of the Contributed Entity.

 

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IPO” means the underwritten initial public offering of shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the REIT.

 

IPO Price ” means the public offering price set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the “ Prospectus”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

Post-Closing Tax Period ” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period beginning after the Closing Date.

 

Pre-Closing Tax Period ” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date.

 

Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement ” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

Straddle Period ” means a taxable period beginning before and ending after the Closing Date.

 

ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1  Representations by the Operating Partnership . The Operating Partnership hereby represents and warrants to Contributor that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a)  Organization and Power . The Operating Partnership is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Operating Partnership of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the Operating Partnership and require no further action or approval of the Operating Partnership’s partners or of any other individuals or entities in order to constitute this Agreement as a binding and enforceable obligation of the Operating Partnership.

 

(b)  OP Units Validly Issued . The OP Units, when issued in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Partnership Agreement, will be duly and validly authorized and issued, free of any preemptive or similar rights, and will be without any obligation to restore capital, except as required by the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act (the “ Limited Partnership Act ”).

 

3

 

 

2.2  Representations by Contributor . Contributor hereby represents and warrants to the Operating Partnership that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a)  Organization and Power; Due Authorization . Contributor, if an entity or trust, is duly incorporated, formed or organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of its state of incorporation, formation or organization. Contributor has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by Contributor of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of Contributor and require no further action or approval of Contributor’s members, partners, stockholders, managers, board of directors, trustees or of any other individuals or entities, as applicable, in order to constitute this Agreement as a binding and enforceable obligation of Contributor. This Agreement, and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of Contributor pursuant to this Agreement, constitutes, or when executed and delivered will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of Contributor, enforceable against Contributor in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

(b)  Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by Contributor has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to Contributor or to any Contributed Interests, any Contributed Entity.

 

(c)  Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting Contributor in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of Contributor or any Contributed Entity, (3) could adversely affect the ability of Contributor to perform its obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the Contributed Interests, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the Contributed Interests, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

(d)  [Reserved]

 

(e)  Contributed Interests . There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Contributed Interests or any equity interest in any Contributed Entity that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

4

 

 

(f)  No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by Contributor has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any Governing Agreement, contract or agreement of any Contributed Entity, or among the partners, members or stockholders of any Contributed Entity, relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the contribution, acquisition and transfer of the Contributed Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g)  Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, Contributor shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Contributed Interests or the Operating Partnership’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Contributed Entity after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

 

(h)  Governing Agreements . Contributor has performed all of its obligations under the partnership agreement, limited liability company agreement, operating agreement, charter and bylaws, as such may have been amended from time to time, as applicable, of each Contributed Entity (each, a “ Governing Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Governing Agreements”) .

 

(i)  Securities Law Matters .

 

(1)  In deciding to engage in the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including, if applicable, acquiring OP Units, neither Contributor nor any equity holder thereof is relying upon any representations made to it by the Operating Partnership, or any of its partners, officers, employees, or agents that are not contained herein. Contributor is aware of the risks involved in investing in the OP Units and in the securities issuable upon redemption of the OP Units. Contributor is knowledgeable, sophisticated and experienced in business and financial matters and fully understands the limitations on transfer imposed by the federal securities laws and as described in this Agreement and related materials, including the Partnership Agreement. Contributor has received the Partnership Agreement and related materials, including the registration statement filed by the REIT with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the IPO, has reviewed all documents and has had an opportunity to ask questions of, and to receive answers from, the Operating Partnership and the REIT or a person or persons authorized to act on their behalf, concerning the terms and conditions of an investment in the OP Units and the financial condition, affairs, and business of the Operating Partnership and the REIT. Contributor confirms that all documents, records, and information pertaining to its investment in OP Units that have been requested by Contributor have been made available or delivered to Contributor prior to the date hereof.

 

(2)  Contributor and each equity holder thereof understands that the offer and sale of OP Units have not been registered under any state or federal securities laws and are instead being offered and sold in reliance on an exemption from such registration requirements and that the Operating Partnership’s reliance on such exemption is predicated in part on the accuracy and completeness of the representations and warranties of Contributor contained herein. The OP Units issuable to Contributor are being acquired by Contributor solely for its own account, for investment, and are not being acquired with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any distribution, subdivision, or fractionalization thereof, in violation of such laws, and Contributor does not have any present intention to enter into any contract, undertaking, agreement, or arrangement with respect to any such resale.

 

5

 

 

(3)  Contributor is able to bear the economic risk of holding the OP Units for an indefinite period and is able to afford the complete loss of its investment in the OP Units.

 

(4)  Contributor understands that no federal agency (including the SEC) or state agency has made or will make any finding or determination as to the fairness of an investment in the OP Units (including as to the value of the Consideration payable in OP Units).

 

(5)  Contributor understands that there is no established public, private or other market for the OP Units to be issued to Contributor hereunder and it is not anticipated that there will be any public, private or other market for such OP Units in the foreseeable future.

 

(6)  Contributor understands that Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act is not currently available with respect to the sale of OP Units.

 

(j)  Accredited Investor . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units as some or all of the Consideration as set forth on Exhibit A, Contributor is an “accredited investor,” as that term is defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D under the Securities Act, and has previously provided the Operating Partnership and the REIT with a duly executed questionnaire confirming Contributor’s accredited investor status. No event or circumstance has occurred since delivery of such questionnaire to make the statements therein false or misleading.

 

(k)  Tax Matters . Contributor represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own tax advisors advice regarding the tax consequences of (i) the transfer of the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership and the receipt of OP Units and/or cash or deemed assumption of debt as the Consideration therefor, (ii) its admission as a limited partner of the Operating Partnership, if applicable, (iii) any other transaction contemplated by this Agreement and (iv) ownership of OP Units, including the effect of Section 704(c) of the Code. Neither the Operating Partnership nor the REIT has made any representation to Contributor regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and Contributor further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the Operating Partnership or the Operating Partnership’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

6

 

 

(l)  Bankruptcy with respect to Contributor . No Act of Bankruptcy (as defined below) has occurred with respect to Contributor. As used herein, “ Act of Bankruptcy” means if Contributor or any equity holder, partner, manager or director thereof shall (A) apply for or consent to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator of itself or of all or a substantial part of its property, (B) admit in writing its inability to pay its debts as they become due, (C) make a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, (D) file a voluntary petition or commence a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) be adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) file a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fail to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against it in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any entity action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

 

(m)  Brokerage Commission . Contributor has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions described herein.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1  Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a)  Subject to Section 3.5 hereof, all representations and warranties of Contributor contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b)  Subject to the limitations set forth in Section 3.4 hereof, following the Closing, Contributor shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of its representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by Contributor pursuant thereto.

 

3.2  General Indemnification .

 

(a)  From and after the Closing Date, Contributor shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the Operating Partnership and the REIT, and their respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of Contributor contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by Contributor pursuant thereto. In each case, Contributor shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel and any necessary local counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties).

 

(b)  Contributor shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting a third-party claim relating to the Contributed Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to the Closing.

 

7

 

 

(c) With respect to any indemnification claim by an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the Operating Partnership agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from Contributor until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Operating Partnership or the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the Operating Partnership may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by Contributor for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse Contributor in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by Contributor to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by Contributor with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by Contributor for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

3.3  Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to Contributor, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to Contributor will not relieve Contributor from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of Contributor by reason of the inability or failure of Contributor (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to Contributor, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit Contributor, at Contributor’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by Contributor and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that Contributor shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by Contributor. If Contributor shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of Contributor and at Contributor’s sole cost and expense (subject to the limitations in Section 3.4 hereof).

 

8

 

 

3.4  Limitations on Indemnification Under Section 3.2(a) .

 

(a)  Contributor shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Parties under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration (valuing OP Units at the IPO Price) and then only to the extent of such excess. Contributor’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

(b)  Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of Contributor and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Parties shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III, (and agree to treat any return of OP Units in satisfaction of indemnification obligations hereunder as an adjustment to the Consideration delivered to Contributor hereunder). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, Contributor shall not be liable to the Indemnified Parties for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Parties.

 

3.5  Limitation Period .

 

(a)  Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b)  If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between Contributor and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by Contributor in the form of cash or OP Units. To the extent indemnification is made through delivery by Contributor of OP Units, such OP Units shall be valued at an amount per OP Unit equal to the IPO Price. Contributor hereby authorizes the REIT, as general partner of the Operating Partnership, to take all such action as may be necessary to amend the Partnership Agreement, and any exhibits or schedules thereto, to reflect the delivery of any OP Units by Contributor to the Operating Partnership as an indemnification payment hereunder and to reflect that Contributor has no further right, title or interest with respect to any such OP Units.

 

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ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

4.1  Covenants of Contributor .

 

(a)  Satisfaction of Conditions . Contributor hereby covenants that Contributor shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the Operating Partnership’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the Operating Partnership shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the Operating Partnership in writing.

 

(b)  Consent to Transfers . Contributor hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to Contributor under the Governing Agreements or otherwise with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Contributed Entity, or any other company or property being contributed or transferred to the Operating Partnership pursuant to a separate contribution or other agreement.

 

(c)  No Disposition or Encumbrance of Contributed Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, Contributor shall not, without the prior written consent of the Operating Partnership: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Contributed Interests; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner the Contributed Interests.

 

(d)  Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, Contributor shall, to the extent within its control, cause each Contributed Entity to conduct its business in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, and shall, to the extent within its control, not permit any Contributed Entity without the prior written consent of the Operating Partnership, to: (i) enter into any material transaction not in the ordinary course of business; (ii) mortgage, pledge or encumber any assets of the Contributed Entity, (iii) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (iv) file an entity classification election pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 301.7701-3(c) on Internal Revenue Service Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) to treat the Contributed Entity as an association taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes; (v) make or change any other tax elections; (vi) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (vii) change any annual tax accounting period; (viii) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (ix) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return”); (x) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (xi) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiv) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

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4.2  Tax Matters .

 

(a) Tax Returns.

 

(A) Pre-Closing Tax Periods . Contributor shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns (other than amended Tax Returns) of the Contributed Entities for any Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and Contributor shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such Pre-Closing Tax Periods. Such Tax Returns shall be prepared in a manner consistent with past practice, except as otherwise required by law, and on such Tax Returns, no position shall be taken, election made or method adopted that is inconsistent with positions taken, elections made or methods used in preparing and filing similar Tax Returns in prior periods (including positions, elections or methods that would have the effect of deferring income to periods ending after the Closing Date or accelerating deductions to periods ending on or before the Closing Date). For the avoidance of doubt, the Operating Partnership will have authority to sign any Tax Returns relating to the Contributed Entities that are filed after the Closing Date.

 

(B) Straddle Periods and Post-Closing Periods . The Operating Partnership shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns of the Contributed Entities for all taxable periods other than the Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the Operating Partnership shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such taxable periods. At least 45 days prior to the deadline for the filing of any Tax Return for a Straddle Period (and before the Operating Partnership files such Tax Return), the Operating Partnership shall furnish to Contributor a draft of such Tax Return and Contributor shall have the right to review, provide written comments on, and approve the portion of such draft Tax Return that relates to Taxes allocable to the portion of the Straddle Period for which Contributor is responsible.

 

(b)  Tax Matters . Contributor shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the Operating Partnership for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences, including all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

  (A) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation in Section 1.14 of the Representations, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2;

 

  (B) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Pre-Closing Tax Period: (i) all such Taxes of the Contributed Entities; (ii) all such Taxes of any other Person that the Contributed Entities are liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred in such Pre-Closing Tax Period; and (iii) all Taxes resulting from a Contributed Entity being a member of, or leaving, during a Pre-Closing Tax Period, an affiliated group of corporations that files a consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return for federal, state, local or foreign Tax purposes; and

 

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(C) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Straddle Period: (i) the Taxes of a Contributed Entity attributable to the portion of such Straddle Period that ends on the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c); and (ii) the Taxes of any other person that a Contributed Entity is liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred on or before the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) .

 

For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Contributor under this Section 4.2 shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Article III .

 

(c)  Allocation of Taxes . For purposes of determining the amount of Taxes that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods and Straddle Periods for purposes of any obligation to indemnify for Taxes under Section 4.2(b) the parties agree to use the following conventions:

 

(A) Taxes in the form of interest, penalties, additions to tax or other additional amounts that are actually incurred, accrued, assessed or similarly charged on or after the Closing Date but that relate to Taxes that accrued on or before the Closing Date shall be treated as occurring prior to the Closing Date;

 

(B) Except for Taxes for which the Operating Partnership is responsible hereunder and for real estate taxes (apportioned pursuant to Section 1.5), for all Taxes that are payable with respect to any Straddle Period, the portion of such Tax that is attributable to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date shall be allocated between the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the portion of the period beginning after the Closing Date using the following conventions:

 

(1)  in the case of such Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, net or gross income, Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any sale, receipt, use, transfer or assignments of property or other asset, or Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any payment or accrual of any amounts (including, without limitation, dividends, interest, or wages), the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall be the amount of Tax that would be payable for such portion of the Straddle Period if such person filed a separate Tax Return with respect to such Taxes or Taxes solely for the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date using a “closing of the books” methodology for allocating items of such Tax Return; and

 

(2)  in the case of all other such Taxes, the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall equal to the amount of Taxes for the entire Straddle Period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of calendar days in the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the denominator of which is the number of calendar days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

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For purposes of clause (i), any item determined on an annual or periodic basis (including amortization and depreciation deductions and the effects of graduated rates) shall be allocated to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date based on the relative number of days in such portion of the Straddle Period as compared to the number of days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

(d)  Survival . The obligations of Contributor to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that Contributor’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, Contributor’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such Contributor’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of Contributor under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

(e)  Contributor and the Operating Partnership shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Contributed Interests or the Contributed Entities, their subsidiaries, as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The Operating Partnership shall promptly notify Contributor upon receipt by the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to the income, properties or operations of any of the Contributed Entities or their subsidiaries, and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of Contributor with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. Contributor shall promptly notify the Operating Partnership in writing upon receipt by Contributor or any of its affiliates of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments relating to the income, properties or operations of any of the Contributed Entities or their subsidiaries. Each of the Operating Partnership and Contributor may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that Contributor shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Contributor has acknowledged liability (except as a partner of the Operating Partnership) for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the Operating Partnership shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the Operating Partnership nor Contributor may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates (other than on Contributor or any of its affiliates as a partner of the Operating Partnership) without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. Contributor and the Operating Partnership shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Contributed Entities, their subsidiaries, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

13

 

 

(f)  For purposes of allocating items of income, gain, loss and deduction with respect to the Contributed Interests in the manner required by Section 704(c) of the Code, the Operating Partnership shall employ, and shall cause any entity controlled by the Operating Partnership which holds title to the Contributed Interests to employ, the “traditional method” (without curative allocations) as set forth in Treasury Regulations section 1.704-3(b)(1).

 

4.3  Relationship to Contributed Entities. Contributor and the Operating Partnership acknowledge and agree that, from and after the Closing, Contributor shall no longer be a member, partner, stockholder or equity owner, or, if applicable, managing member or general partner, of any Contributed Entity and shall have no rights or benefits under any Governing Agreement.

 

ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1  Conditions to the Operating Partnership’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Operating Partnership’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Operating Partnership’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a)  IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

(b)  Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

(c)  Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by Contributor pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the Operating Partnership, Contributor shall have delivered a certificate to the Operating Partnership to such effect in regard to Contributor’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

 

(d)  Performance . Contributor shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 5.2 hereof.

 

(e)  Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

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(f)  Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, members or stockholders of any Contributed Entity or their subsidiaries, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

 

(g)  Reliance on Regulation D . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units, the Operating Partnership shall, based on the advice of its counsel and the representations made by Contributor in Contributor’s Investor Questionnaire, be reasonably satisfied that the issuance of OP Units to Contributor may be made without registration under the Securities Act in reliance on Regulation D under the Securities Act.

 

(h)  Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(i)  No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to any of the Contributed Interests or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Contributed Entity.

 

(j)  Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The Operating Partnership shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the Operating Partnership and its counsel.

 

5.2  Conditions to Contributor’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, Contributor’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to Contributor’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a)  Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Operating Partnership pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b)  Performance . The Operating Partnership shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

(c)  Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

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ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1  Closing. The consummation and closing of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement (the “ Closing ”) shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the Operating Partnership may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to the Closing set forth herein (the “ Closing Date”), or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2  Contributor’s Deliveries . At the Closing, Contributor shall deliver the following to the Operating Partnership in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the Operating Partnership by Contributor:

 

(a)  Assignment of Contributed Interests . An Assignment, in substantially the form of Exhibit B attached hereto.

 

(b)  Execution of Partnership Agreement . If Contributor has elected to receive OP Units, signature pages of the Partnership Agreement duly executed by Contributor, as limited partner.

 

(c)  FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from Contributor certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Code that Contributor is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

 

(d)  Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the Operating Partnership or required hereby.

 

6.3  Default Remedies . If Contributor defaults in performing any of Contributor’s obligations under this Agreement, the Operating Partnership shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from Contributor’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and Contributor’s obligation to convey the Contributed Interests to the Operating Partnership hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

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ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1  Notices. Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice, demand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

Operating Partnership :

 

Postal Realty LP

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 E. Byrd Street 

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Attention: James V. Davidson

Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Contributor :

 

NPM Holdings, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue C

edarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

7.2  Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitutes the entire agreement and supersedes each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3  Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

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7.4  Governing Law .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

(b)  Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c)  If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

7.5  Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

7.6  Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7  Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8  Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

7.9  Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder are for the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  CONTRIBUTOR :
     
  NATIONWIDE POSTAL MANAGEMENT
  HOLDINGS, INC., a Delware coporation

 

  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title:  Member

 

  OPERATING PARTNERSHIP :
     
  POSTAL REALTY LP, a Delaware limited partnership
     
  By: Postal Realty Trust Inc.
    its general partner

 

  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title:  Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Exhibit A

 

Contributed Entities, Contributed Interests

 

Contributed Entity   Contributed Interest (%)
NPM Merger Sub, LLC   100%

  

Total Consideration

 

 

Total

Consideration

 
  250,000 OP
Units
 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit B

 

 

 

Exhibit B

 

Assignment

 

The undersigned (“ Assignor ”) , for good and valuable consideration paid to the Assignor by Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (“ Assigne e”), pursuant to the Contribution Agreement dated as of                          , 2019, by and among Assignor, Assignee and Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “ Agreement ”), and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, good and indefeasible right, title and interest to the [partnership or limited liability company interests/shares of common stock] described on Schedule A attached hereto, including, without limitation, all right, title and interest, if any, of the undersigned in and to the assets of each such [partnership/limited liability company/corporation] and the right to receive distributions of money, profits and other assets from each such entity, presently existing or hereafter at any time arising or accruing, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

The undersigned, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby covenants and agrees that, at any time and from time to time after the date hereof, upon the written request of Assignee, the undersigned will, without further consideration, do, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be done, executed, acknowledged and delivered, each of and all of such further acts, deeds, assignments, transfers, conveyances and assurances as may reasonably be required by Assignee in order to assign, transfer, set over, convey, assure and confirm unto and vest in Assignee, its successors and assigns, title to the interests described in Schedule A attached hereto.

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Assignment to be signed by a duly authorized officer this ___ day of _____, 2019.

 

                           , a
                                                            
     
  By:                              
    Name:
    Title:

 

 

Exhibit C

 

   

Schedule A

 

     
  Contributed Interest
Contributed Entity   (%)
     
     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.6

 

CONTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

 

This Contribution Agreement (“ Agreement ”), effective as of May 14, 2019 (the “ Effective Date ”), is made and entered into by and between Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Contributor ”), and Postal Realty Management TRS, LLC a Delaware limited liability company (“ Transferee ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS, the Contributor is the legal and beneficial owner of the assets listed on Schedule A attached hereto (the “ Contributed Property ”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Contributor now desires to contribute, assign and transfer the Contributed Property to Transferee; and

 

WHEREAS, Transferee desires to acquire and assume the Contributed Property from the Contributor, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

AGREEMENT

 

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

 

1.   Sale, Contribution and Assignment of Contributed Property . The Contributor hereby contributes, assigns and transfers the Contributed Property to Transferee, and Transferee hereby accepts transfer of and assumes the Contributed Property from the Contributor, pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, beneficial ownership of the Contributed Property shall be contributed, assigned and transferred (the “ Contribution ”) on the Effective Date.

 

2.   Representations . Each party hereto hereby represents and warrants that, with respect to itself, each and every one of the following statements is true, correct and complete in every material respect as of the date of this Agreement:

 

(a)   Such party is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of formation or incorporation, and has full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by such party of its obligations under this Agreement require no further action or approval of its members, of its board of managers, its board of directors or of any other individuals, entities or governing bodies in order to constitute this Agreement as a binding and enforceable obligation of such party.

 

(b)   Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by such party has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or has resulted, or will result, in the acceleration of, any obligation under any existing articles of incorporation, bylaws, operating agreements, organizational documents, mortgages, indentures, lien agreements, notes, contracts, permits, judgments, decrees, orders, restrictive covenants, statutes, rules or regulations applicable to such party. With regard to the representations and warranties of Contributor only, Contributor has clear title to the Contributed Property.

 

 

 

 

(c)   No authorization, consent, approval, permit or license of, or filing with, any governmental or public body or authority, or any other person or entity is required to authorize, or is required in connection with, the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the agreements contemplated hereby on the part of such party.

 

3.   Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement among the parties hereto and may not be modified or amended except by instrument in writing signed by the parties hereto.

 

4.   Governing Law . This Agreement shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

 

5.   Severability . If any term, covenant or condition of this Agreement shall to any extent be deemed invalid or unenforceable, then the remainder of this Agreement, and the application of such term, covenant or condition, shall not be affected thereby, and shall be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

 

6.   Further Acts and Assurances . The Contributor and Transferee each covenant that they will take all necessary action to confirm the transactions contemplated hereby, including securing any necessary records of transfer and executing and delivering (or cause to be executed and delivered) all such agreements, instruments, certificates and other documents, and shall take (or cause to be taken) and do (or cause to be done) all things necessary, proper or advisable to consummate and make effective this Agreement.

 

7.   Tax Treatment . The parties to this Agreement intend that, for United States federal income tax purposes, the contribution and assignment of the Contributed Property shall be treated as a contribution under Internal Revenue Code section 351.

 

 

[Signatures on following page]

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have entered into this Agreement as of the date first above written.

  

  POSTAL REALTY LP,
         
  By: Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    its general partner
         
    By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
      Name: Andrew Spodek
      Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

  POSTAL REALTY MANAGEMENT TRS LLC
                          
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
  Title: Memeber

 

 

[Signature page to Postal Realty LP Contribution Agreement}

 

 

 

 

Schedule A

 

1. All management contracts contributed to the Contributor by Nationwide Postal Management Holdings, Inc. that relate to real property that is not owned, directly or indirectly, by the Contributor

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.7

 

 

 

 

 

AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER

BY AND AMONG

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.,

UPH MERGER SUB LLC,

UNITED PROPERTIES
HOLDING, INC.

AND

ANDREW SPODEK

 

 

 

Dated as of May 1 6 , 2019

 

 

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    Page
     
ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS 1
     
ARTICLE II THE MERGER 6
     
2.1. The Merger 6
     
2.2. Effective Time 6
     
2.3. Time and Place of Closing 7
     
2.4. Limited Liability Company Agreement 7
     
2.5. Board of Managers 7
     
2.6. Merger Consideration 7
     
2.7. Effect on Capital Stock and Other Matters 7
     
2.8. Prorations 8
     
2.9. Tax Consequences 9
     
ARTICLE III REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE COMPANY AND THE COMPANY STOCKHOLDER 9
     
3.1. Organization and Authority of the Company 9
     
3.2. Capitalization 9
     
3.3. Authority Relative to this Agreement; Board and Company Stockholder Approval 10
     
3.4. Consents and Approvals; No Violations 10
     
3.5. Absence of Certain Events 11
     
3.6. Subsidiaries; Minority Investments 13
     
3.7. Financial Statements 13
     
3.8. Litigation 13
   
3.9. Employee Matters 13
     
3.10. Tax Matters 13
     
3.11. Compliance with Law 15
     
3.12. Fees and Expenses of Brokers and Others 15
     
3.13. Absence of Undisclosed Liabilities 15
     
3.14. Environmental Laws and Regulations 15
     
3.15. Insurance 16
     
3.16. Material Contracts 16
     
3.17. Real Property 17
     
3.18. Books and Records 18

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3.19. Accounts Receivable 19
     
3.20. Indebtedness 19
     
3.21. Full Disclosure 19
     
ARTICLE IV REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE REIT AND MERGER SUBSIDIARY 19
     
4.1. Organization and Authority of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary 19
     
4.2. Authority Relative to this Agreement 20
     
4.3. Consents and Approvals; No Violations 20
     
4.4. REIT Common Stock 20
     
4.5. Litigation 20
     
4.6. Fees and Expenses of Brokers and Others 20
     
4.7. Tax 21
     
ARTICLE V COVENANTS RELATING TO CONDUCT OF BUSINESS 21
     
5.1. Operation in the Ordinary Course 21
     
5.2. Affirmative and Negative Covenants 21
     
ARTICLE VI ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS 23
     
6.1. Access to Information 23
     
6.2. Reasonable Efforts 23
     
6.3. Notification; Updates to Schedules 23
     
6.4. Registration 24
     
ARTICLE VII CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER 28
     
7.1. Conditions Precedent to Obligations of Each Party 28
     
7.2. Conditions Precedent to Obligations of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary 29
     
7.3. Conditions Precedent to Obligations of the Company 29
     
ARTICLE VIII SURVIVAL; INDEMNIFICATION; TAX MATTERS 30
     
8.1. Survival of Representations, Warranties and Covenants 30
     
8.2. Indemnification 30
     
8.3. Tax Indemnification 31
     
8.4. Tax Contests 32
     
ARTICLE IX TERMINATION; AMENDMENT; WAIVER 33
     
9.1. Termination 33
     
9.2. Effect of Termination 33
     
9.3. Amendment 33

 

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9.4. Extension; Waiver 33
     
ARTICLE X MISCELLANEOUS 34
     
10.1. Entire Agreement; Assignment 34
     
10.2. Notices 34
     
10.3. Governing Law; Submission to Jurisdiction; Waiver of Jury Trial 35
     
10.4. Specific Performance 36
     
10.5. Interpretation 36
     
10.6. Parties in Interest 37
     
10.7. No Recourse 37
     
10.8. Execution of this Agreement 37
     
10.9. Severability 37

 

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AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER

 

This AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of May 16, 2019, by and among Postal Realty Trust, Inc. a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”), UPH Merger Sub LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of the REIT (“ Merger Subsidiary ”), United Properties Holding, Inc., a Tennessee corporation (the “ Company ”), and Andrew Spodek, an individual, recites and provides as follows:

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of each of the REIT and the Company have approved this Agreement and the merger of the Company with and into Merger Subsidiary pursuant hereto, with Merger Subsidiary surviving the merger (the “ Merger ”), declared this Agreement and the Merger advisable and in the best interests of the REIT and the Company, respectively, and recommended the adoption of this Agreement to their respective stockholders;

 

WHEREAS, pursuant to and in connection with the Merger, at the Effective Time, all of the issued and outstanding shares of Company Common Stock will be converted into the right to receive the Stock Merger Consideration; and

 

WHEREAS, the REIT, Merger Subsidiary and the Company desire to make certain representations, warranties, covenants and agreements in connection with the Merger and also to prescribe various conditions to the Merger.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises, which are incorporated into and made part of this Agreement, and of the mutual representations, warranties, covenants, agreements and conditions set forth herein and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereby agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS

 

Action ” shall mean any claim, action, cause of action, demand, suit, arbitration, mediation, audit, proceeding, litigation, citation, summons, subpoena or investigation of any nature, civil, criminal, administrative, regulatory or otherwise, whether at law or in equity, in any forum (including judicial, administrative or arbitral).

 

Adjusted Merger Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.2 .

 

Affiliate ” means, with respect to any specified Person, any other Person that, at the time of determination, directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such specified Person. For purposes hereof, “control” means the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise, and “controlled by” and “under common control with” shall have correlative meanings.

 

Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

 

 

 

Articles of Incorporation ” means the REIT’s Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, in the form in effect upon completion of the IPO.

 

Certificate of Merger ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.2 .

 

Class A Common Stock Merger Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.6 .

 

Class B Common Stock Merger Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.6 .

 

Closing ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.3 .

 

Closing Date ” means the date on which the Closing occurs.

 

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

Company Common Stock ” means the common stock, no par value, of the Company.

 

Company ” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Company Financial Statements ” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.7(a) .

 

Company Stockholder ” means PSPI, LLC, a New York limited liability company wholly-owned by Andrew Spodek and the holder of all the outstanding Company Common Stock.

 

Contracts ” means all contracts, agreements, leases (including the Leases), licenses and legally binding commitments or obligations (and all amendments thereto), whether written or verbal.

 

Conversion Shares ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.4(a) .

 

DGCL ” means the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.

 

Disclosure Schedules ” means the disclosure schedules delivered by the Company and the REIT concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement.

 

Effective Time ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.2 .

 

Environmental Law ” means any Law concerning protection of the environment or natural resources or human health and safety in respect of Hazardous Substances, including Laws relating to (i) any discharges, Releases or emissions of Hazardous Substances to the environment including indoor or ambient air, water (including surface water, ground water and wetlands), soil, sediment or subsurface strata, (ii) the quality of any environmental medium, (iii) the generation, treatment, recycling, storage, disposal, transportation or other management of waste, (iv) the manufacture, distribution, disposal, or recycling of chemical substances and mixtures, (v) contamination, pollution, investigation or remediation of any environmental medium or (vi) responsibility or liability for environmental conditions, in each case, as amended from time to time.

 

Environmental Permits ” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.14(c) .

 

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Estimated Net Working Capital Amount ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.8(a) .

 

GAAP ” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, consistently applied.

 

Governmental Authority ” means any federal, state, local, municipal, national, international, foreign, supranational or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency, administrative body or instrumentality, or any court or tribunal.

 

Governmental Order ” means any order, writ, judgment, injunction, decree, ruling, charge, stipulation, award or other restriction entered or issued by a Governmental Authority.

 

Hazardous Substances ” means any substance, material or waste (regardless of physical form or concentration) that is regulated, restricted, listed or identified under any Environmental Law.

 

Income Tax ” or “ Income Taxes ” means any and all Taxes imposed upon or measured by net income (which, for purposes of clarity, shall include interest, penalties and additions imposed with respect to such Taxes).

 

Income Tax Return ” means any Tax Return relating to Income Taxes.

 

Indebtedness ” means, without duplication, (i) any indebtedness for borrowed money (including the issuance of any debt security) to any Person, contingent or otherwise, (ii) all obligations evidenced by mortgages, notes, bonds, debentures or similar instruments, (iii) all obligations issued or assumed as the deferred purchase price of property or services (other than trade payables and other current liabilities incurred in the ordinary course of business), including conditional sales or other title retention agreements relating to property or assets purchase by such Person, (iv) the Indebtedness of any third party secured by a Lien on any of the properties or assets of the Company, (v) interest rate, currency or other hedging arrangements, (vi) letters of credit, (vii) performance and surety bonds, (viii) any guarantee of any such Indebtedness or debt securities of any Person, (ix) obligations of such Person to purchase, redeem, retire, defease or otherwise acquire for value any capital stock of such Person or any warrants, rights or options to acquire such capital stock, (x) renewals, extensions, refundings, deferrals, restructurings, amendments and modifications of any such Indebtedness or guarantee and (xi) all premiums, interest, penalties and other amounts due in connection with any of the foregoing; provided , however , that Indebtedness shall not include (1) any liabilities or obligations, (2) accounts payable to trade creditors, accrued expenses and deferred revenues, in each case arising in the ordinary course of business and (3) the endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business, in each case of clauses (1), (2) and (3), to the extent that any such amounts are included in Net Working Capital.

 

Indemnified Person ” and “ Indemnified Persons ” have the meanings set forth in Section 8.2 .

 

IPO ” means the underwritten initial public offering of REIT Class A Common Stock.

 

IRS ” means the Internal Revenue Service.

 

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Knowledge of the Company Stockholder ” means the knowledge of Andrew Spodek, the sole equity owner of the Company Stockholder.

 

Law ” means any foreign, national, international, supranational, federal, state, local, municipal or other law, statute, rule, regulation, order, act, ordinance, treaty, code, judgment, decree, common law or other requirement of any Governmental Authority.

 

Leases ” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.17 .

 

Lien ” means any mortgages, liens, pledges, charges, security interests, claims, restrictions on the use of real property, encumbrances, hypothecation, option, preemptive purchase right, easement, or other adverse claim of any kind in respect of such property or asset.

 

Losses ” means any and all losses, liabilities, damages, judgments, amounts paid in settlement, costs, expenses, including fines, penalties and reasonable attorneys’ and accountants’ costs, fees and expenses, and all incidental, special and consequential damages to the extent reasonably foreseeable; provided , however, that Losses shall not include indirect, punitive or exemplary damages and, in particular, damages calculated by “multiple of profits” or “multiple of cash flow” or similar valuation methodology (except to the extent any such damages are award to a third party pursuant to a third party indemnification claim).

 

Material Adverse Effect ” means, with respect to any entity or group of entities, any event, fact, circumstance or condition that, individually or in the aggregate with any other such events, facts, circumstances or conditions, has had or would be reasonably expected to have, a material adverse effect on (a) the business, properties, assets, financial condition or results of operations of such entity or group of entities, taken as a whole, or (b) the ability to consummate the Merger or any of the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

Material Contracts ” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.16(a) .

 

Merger ” has the meaning set forth in the recitals to this Agreement.

 

Merger Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.6 .

 

Merger Subsidiary ” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

Most Recent Balance Sheet ” means the most recent combined consolidated balance sheet of Nationwide Postal and Affiliates Predecessor included in the registration statement on Form S-11 relating to the IPO filed by the REIT with the SEC, as it may amended prior to the IPO.

 

Permits ” means all permits, licenses, certificates of occupancy, variances, exemptions, registrations, approvals and authorizations of all Governmental Authorities.

 

Permitted Liens ” means each of the following: (a) Liens for taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies not yet due and payable or, if due and payable, not yet delinquent; (b) pledges or deposits to secure obligations under workers’ compensation or unemployment laws or similar legislation or to secure public or statutory obligations; (c) easements, zoning restrictions, rights of way and other encumbrances on title to real property that do not render title to the property encumbered thereby unmarketable or materially adversely affect the use or value of such property for its present purposes; (d) tenancy leases; and (e) deposits to secure trade contracts (other than for debt), statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds, performance bonds and other obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business.

 

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Person ” means any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, association, trust, joint venture, unincorporated entity or other legal entity or any Governmental Authority.

 

Post-Closing Tax Period ” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period beginning after the Closing Date.

 

Pre-Closing Tax Period ” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date.

 

Real Property ” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.17 .

 

Registration Statement ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.4(a) .

 

REIT ” has the meaning set forth in the preamble to this Agreement.

 

REIT Class A Common Stock ” means the Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the REIT.

 

REIT Class B Common Stock ” means the Class B common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the REIT.

 

REIT Common Stock ” means the REIT Class A Common Stock and the REIT Class B Common Stock.

 

Release ” means any spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying, discharging, injecting, escaping, leaching, dumping, disposing or migrating into or through the environment of any Hazardous Substance.

 

Resale Shares ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.4(a) .

 

Rule 144 ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.4(a)(ii) .

 

S-3 Eligible Date ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.4(a) .

 

SEC ” means the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Securities Act ” has the meaning set forth in Section 6.4(a).

 

Special Representations ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1 .

 

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Straddle Period ” means a taxable period beginning before and ending after the Closing Date.

 

Survival Date ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1 .

 

Surviving Company ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1 .

 

Tax ” or “ Taxes ” means any federal, state, county, local or foreign taxes of any kind whatsoever, including any interest, penalties and additions imposed thereon or with respect thereto, including all Income Taxes, payroll and employee withholding taxes, unemployment insurance, employment taxes, social security taxes, sales and use taxes, ad valorem taxes, escheat and unclaimed property charges, excise taxes, severance taxes, franchise taxes, margin taxes, profits taxes, gross receipts taxes, business license taxes, occupation taxes, real and personal property taxes, stamp taxes, registration taxes, environmental taxes, value added taxes, customs duties, capital stock taxes, transfer taxes, alternative or add-on minimum taxes, workers’ compensation, disability, estimated and other governmental charges of the same or of a similar nature to any of the foregoing, whether disputed or not.

 

Tax Claim ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.4 .

 

Tax Return ” means any return, report, declaration return, information return, claim for refund, declarations of estimated tax or other information required to be supplied to or filed with a taxing authority in connection with any Taxes, including any return of an affiliated or combined or unitary group and including any schedule or attachment thereto and amendment thereof.

 

Tennessee Code ” means the Tennessee Business Corporation Act.

 

ARTICLE II
THE MERGER

 

2.1. The Merger . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, at the Effective Time, the Company shall be merged with and into Merger Subsidiary in accordance with the provisions of, and with the effects provided in, Section 251 of the DGCL and Section 48-21-107 of the Tennessee Code. Merger Subsidiary shall be the surviving company resulting from the Merger (the “ Surviving Company ”), and shall succeed to and assume all of the rights and obligations of the Company, and the separate corporate existence of the Company shall cease.

 

2.2. Effective Time . Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, as soon as practicable on the Closing Date after the Closing occurs, the REIT will file with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware and the Secretary of State of the State of Tennessee a Certificate of Merger or Articles of Merger, as applicable (the “ Certificate of Merger ”), with respect to the Merger, duly executed and completed in accordance with the relevant provisions of the DGCL and the Tennessee Code, and will make all other filings or recordings required under the DGCL and the Tennessee Code to effect the Merger. The Merger will become effective at such time as the Certificate of Merger has been duly filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware and the Secretary of State of the State of Tennessee, or at such subsequent date or time as Merger Subsidiary and the Company may agree and specify in the Certificate of Merger (the time that is the effective time of the Merger being hereinafter referred to as the “ Effective Time ”).

 

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2.3. Time and Place of Closing . The closing of the Merger and other transactions contemplated by this Agreement (the “ Closing ”) shall take place at a time and on a date mutually agreed upon by the parties, but is expected to occur immediately following the closing of the IPO, but subject to the satisfaction or waiver at the Closing of the conditions set forth herein. The Closing shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP, 200 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10166, or at such other location mutually agreed upon by the parties.

 

2.4. Limited Liability Company Agreement . The limited liability company agreement of Merger Subsidiary, as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time, shall be the limited liability company agreement of the Surviving Company until thereafter amended as provided therein or by applicable Law.

 

2.5. Board of Managers . The Board of Managers of the Surviving Company as of immediately after the Effective Time shall be the managers of the Surviving Company and shall serve until their successors have been duly elected or appointed and qualified or until their earlier death, resignation or removal in accordance with the limited liability company agreement of the Surviving Company.

 

2.6. Merger Consideration . At the Effective Time, and without any action on the part of the Company Stockholder, all of the Company Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall automatically be converted into the right to receive an aggregate of 637,058 shares of REIT Class A Common Stock (the “Class A Common Stock Merger Consideration”) and 27,206 shares of REIT Class B Common Stock (the “Class B Common Stock Merger Consideration”, and together with the Class A Common Stock Merger Consideration, the “Merger Consideration”)).

 

2.7. Effect on Capital Stock and Other Matters . As of the Effective Time, by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of any holders of Company Common Stock, REIT Common Stock or membership interests in Merger Subsidiary:

 

(a) All of the issued and outstanding shares of Company Common Stock shall be converted into the right to receive, upon the surrender of the certificate(s) formerly representing such shares of Company Common Stock in accordance with Section 2.8 , the Merger Consideration.

 

(b) All shares of Company Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, when so converted, shall no longer be outstanding and shall automatically be canceled and retired and shall cease to exist, and each holder of Company Common Stock shall cease to have any ownership or other rights with respect thereto, except the right to receive the Merger Consideration in accordance with the terms hereof.

 

(c) Each membership interest of Merger Subsidiary issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall remain outstanding.

 

(d) As of the Effective Time, there shall be no further registration of transfers on the stock transfer books of the Company of shares of Company Common Stock.

 

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(e) The REIT shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from the Merger Consideration otherwise payable pursuant to this Agreement such amounts as are required to be deducted and withheld with respect to the making of such payment under the Code, or any provision of federal, state, local or foreign Tax Law. To the extent that amounts are so withheld, (i) such withheld amounts shall be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having been paid to the Company Stockholder, and (ii) the REIT shall provide the Company Stockholder written notice of the amounts so deducted or withheld.

 

(f) The Company Stockholder waives any and all dissenter’s rights it may have, under applicable statutory provisions or otherwise, in connection with the Merger.

 

2.8. Prorations .

 

(a) The Merger Consideration may be adjusted, upward or downward, by the amount of any adjustments arising from the Prorations (as defined herein) (as so adjusted, the “Adjusted Merger Consideration”). Adjustments arising from the prorations will be deducted or paid, as the case may be, through the reduction or increase, as applicable, in the number of shares of REIT Class A Common Stock comprising the Class A Common Stock Merger Consideration. For purposes of determining the number of shares of REIT Class A Common Stock constituting any Prorations adjustment, the value per share of REIT Class A Common Stock shall be the public offering price set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the REIT’s underwritten initial public offering or REIT Class A Common Stock.

 

For purposes of this Agreement, “ Prorations ” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which Real Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date and shall include:

 

(i) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Real Property shall be prorated at the Closing;

 

(ii) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Real Property and all other income from the Real Property shall be prorated at the Closing; and

 

(iii) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the various counties in which the Real Property is located shall be prorated at the Closing.

 

(b) No less than three (3) but no more than five (5) business days prior to the Closing Date, the Company shall cause to be prepared and delivered a certificate signed by an officer of the Company setting forth the Company’s good faith estimate of the Net Working Capital of the Company as of close of business on the Closing Date (the “ Estimated Net Working Capital Amount ”), which shall be prepared in accordance with the definitions thereof, and which shall be subject to the Company Stockholder’s approval (not to be unreasonably withheld). To the extent that the Estimated Net Working Capital Amount is less than the Required Net Working Capital Amount, then the Merger Consideration payable by the REIT at the Closing shall be decreased by such shortfall. To the extent that the Estimated Net Working Capital Amount is greater than the Required Net Working Capital Amount, then the Merger Consideration payable by the REIT at the Closing shall be increased by such surplus.

 

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(c) All amounts paid by any Person pursuant to this Section 2.8 shall be considered an adjustment to the Merger Consideration for Tax purposes.

 

2.9. Tax Consequences . It is intended that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Merger shall qualify as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code and that this Agreement shall constitute a “plan of reorganization” as that term is used in Sections 354 and 361 of the Code. This Agreement should be interpreted consistent with this intent.

 

ARTICLE III

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE COMPANY AND THE
COMPANY STOCKHOLDER

 

The Company and the Company Stockholder represent and warrant to the REIT and Merger Subsidiary as follows:

 

3.1. Organization and Authority of the Company . The Company is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of the State of Tennessee. The Company has full corporate or entity power to carry on its business as it is now being conducted and to own, operate and hold under lease its assets and properties as, and in the places where, such properties and assets now are owned, operated or held. The Company is duly qualified as a foreign entity to do business , and is in good standing, in each jurisdiction in which its ownership or leasing of property or the conduct of its business as now conducted requires it to qualify, except as would not reasonably be expected, individually or in the aggregate, to have a Material Adverse Effect on the Company. Complete and correct copies of the organizational documents of the Company have been delivered to the REIT as in effect on the date hereof, and, other than as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, no amendment or other modification thereto has been filed, recorded or is pending or contemplated thereto.

 

3.2. Capitalization .

 

(a) The Company’s authorized capital stock consists of 1,000 shares of Company Common Stock and no shares of preferred stock. As of the date hereof, 1,000 shares of Company Common Stock and no shares of preferred stock are issued and outstanding. Such shares of Company Common Stock constitute all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company as of the date hereof. All outstanding shares of Company Common Stock are held by the Company Stockholder. All issued and outstanding shares of Company Common Stock (i) have been duly authorized and validly issued and are fully paid and nonassessable, (ii) are not subject to any preemptive rights, (iii) are not subject to any voting agreements, and (iv) have not been issued in violation of any preemptive rights, rights of first refusal or offer or applicable Law.

 

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(b) Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries is a party to any (A) option, warrant, put, contract, commitment, agreement or other obligation pursuant to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is bound to sell, repurchase or issue any shares of its capital stock or other equity interest, including securities convertible into, exchangeable or exercisable for shares of capital stock, other equity interest or other securities of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, (B) stockholder, member, voting or other agreement affecting or relating to the voting, purchase, redemption, repurchase or transfer of any shares of capital stock or other interest of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. No securities of the Company or any of its subsidiaries are subject to any pledge agreements, buy-sell agreements or other contract, agreement, arrangement, commitment, option, proxy, pledge, right of first offer or refusal, or understanding, including any contract restricting or otherwise relating to the ownership, voting rights, dividend rights, distribution rights, or disposition thereof.

 

(c) All distributions, dividends, repurchases and redemptions of the capital stock (or other equity interests) of the Company were undertaken in compliance with the charter and bylaws of the Company then in effect, any agreement to which the Company was then a party and all applicable Law. There are no dividends or other distributions that have accrued or been declared but that are unpaid and the Company has no current obligation to declare or pay any dividend or distribution to the holders of any preferred stock or the Company Common Stock.

 

3.3. Authority Relative to this Agreement; Board and Company Stockholder Approval . The Company has all requisite corporate power and authority to execute and deliver and to perform its obligations under this Agreement and this Agreement and the Merger have been approved by the Board of Directors of the Company and by the Company Stockholder as required by the Tennessee Code and the Company’s charter and bylaws. No other corporate proceedings on the part of the Company are necessary to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or to consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby. This Agreement has been duly and validly executed and delivered by the Company and (assuming the due authorization, execution and delivery hereof and thereof by the other parties thereto) constitutes the valid and binding agreement of the Company, enforceable against the Company in accordance with its terms, except to the extent that enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other Laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by equitable principles.

 

3.4. Consents and Approvals; No Violations . Except as set forth on Schedule 3.4 , no consent, authorization or approval of, and no notification, submission or filing with, any Governmental Authority or other Person (including filings, consents or approvals required under any material Permits of the Company or any Material Contracts to which the Company is or will be a party) is necessary or required in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and the consummation by the Company of the Merger and other transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Neither the execution or delivery of this Agreement by the Company nor the performance of this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby by the Company will (a) conflict with or result in any breach of any provision of the charter, bylaws or other organizational documents of the Company, (b) result in a violation of, breach of, or a loss of any benefit to which the Company is entitled, or constitute (with or without due notice or lapse of time or both) a default (or give rise to any right of termination, amendment, cancellation or acceleration) under, any of the terms, conditions or provisions of any Material Contract binding upon or providing rights to the Company, (c) violate any material Permit, Governmental Order or Law applicable to the Company or (d) result in the creation or imposition of any Lien (other than Permitted Liens) on any asset of the Company.

 

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3.5. Absence of Certain Events .

 

(a) Since December 31, 2018, no event, fact, circumstance or condition has occurred that has had a Material Adverse Effect on the Company.

 

(b) From December 31, 2018, through the date hereof, (y) the business of the Company has been operated in the ordinary course consistent with past practice and (z) through the date hereof, the Company has not:

 

(i) created, incurred, assumed or permitted to exist any additional Indebtedness or guaranteed any Indebtedness of another Person;

 

(ii) granted any Lien other than a Permitted Lien;

 

(iii) acquired or agreed to acquire by merging or consolidating with, or by purchasing a substantial portion of the assets of, any business or other Person;

 

(iv) incurred or committed to incur any capital expenditures or authorization or commitment with respect thereto that in the aggregate exceeds $100,000;

 

(v) changed any Tax election, changed an annual Tax accounting period, adopted or changed any Tax accounting method, filed any amended Tax Return, entered into any closing agreement, settled any Tax claim or assessment relating to the Company, surrendered any right to claim a refund of Taxes, consented to any extension or waiver of the limitations period applicable to any Tax claim or assessment relating to the Companies, or taken any other similar action;

 

(vi) paid, discharged, settled or satisfied any claims, liabilities or obligations in excess of $10,000 in the aggregate, other than the payment, discharge or satisfaction in the ordinary course of business or as required by their terms as in effect on the date hereof of claims, liabilities or obligations reflected or reserved against in the Most Recent Balance Sheet or incurred in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices;

 

(vii) initiated any material action, suit, claim or proceeding against any customer or vendor before any arbitrator or Governmental Authority;

 

(viii) made any change in the financial or Tax accounting methods or accounting practices followed by the Company, except changes required by Law or as a result of the Audit;

 

(ix) made any loans or advances (except in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice) to, capital contributions to, or investments in, any other Person;

 

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(x) materially amended or extended, or assigned any material rights or claims under, (i) any Material Contract or (ii) any agreement or arrangement with any Affiliate of the Company;

 

(xi)(i) wrote-off as uncollectible any notes or accounts receivable except write-offs in the ordinary course, (ii) wrote-off, wrote-up or wrote-down any other material asset of the Company or (iii) altered the customary time periods for collection of accounts receivable or payments of accounts payable;

 

(xii) entered into any new line of business outside of its existing lines of business;

 

(xiii) suffered any material damage, destruction or other casualty loss (whether or not covered by insurance) affecting the Company or its assets; or

 

(xiv) agreed to do any of the foregoing (except as contemplated by this Agreement).

 

(c) Except as set forth on Schedule 3.5(c) , from December 31, 2018, through the date hereof, the Company has not:

 

(i) issued, sold or granted any shares of capital stock of any class or series, or any other equity interest, including securities or rights convertible into, exchangeable for, or evidencing the right to subscribe for any shares of capital stock or other equity interests, or any rights, warrants, options, calls, commitments or any other agreements of any character to purchase or acquire any shares of capital stock or other equity interests or any securities or rights convertible into, exchangeable for, or evidencing the right to subscribe for, any shares of capital stock or other equity interests in respect of, in lieu of, or in substitution for, shares or other equity interests outstanding on the date hereof;

 

(ii)(i) split, combined, subdivided or reclassified any shares of its capital stock or (ii) declared, set aside for payment or paid any dividend, or made any other distribution, in respect of any of its capital stock, or redeemed or repurchased any of its capital stock or any outstanding options, warrants or rights of any kind to acquire any shares of, or any outstanding securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for any shares of, its capital stock;

 

(iii) adopted any amendments or modification to its certificate of incorporation or bylaws or effected any recapitalization or similar transaction;

 

(iv) sold, leased, licensed, abandoned or otherwise encumbered or subjected to any Lien or otherwise disposed of any of its material properties, assets or rights or any interest therein;

 

(v) waived, canceled, sold, leased, licensed or otherwise disposed of, for less than the face amount thereof, any claim or right it has against others; or

 

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(vi) agreed to do any of the foregoing.

 

3.6. Subsidiaries; Minority Investments . The Company has no subsidiaries and does not, directly or indirectly, own or hold of record and/or beneficially own or hold capital stock or other equity interests in any other Person.

 

3.7. Financial Statements .

 

(a)The Company has delivered to the REIT true and complete copies of the balance sheet and statement of income of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2017 and 2018 (the “ Company Financial Statements ”). The Company Financial Statements (i) fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as of the dates and for the periods indicated, and (ii) were prepared in accordance with the Company’s accounting principles applied on a consistent basis, except as otherwise expressly noted therein and subject, in the case of any unaudited interim financial statements, to normally recurring year-end adjustments (which shall not be material individually or in the aggregate). The Company Financial Statements were prepared from, and are materially consistent with, the accounting records of the Company and were prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

3.8. Litigation . There are no Actions pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, threatened by or against the Company or any of its properties or assets, or any of the directors or officers of the Company in such capacity.

 

3.9. Employee Matters . The Company does not have, and has not within the past five years had, any employees.

 

3.10. Tax Matters. Except as set forth on Schedule 3.10 :

 

(a) the Company has timely filed or caused to be timely filed all Tax Returns required to have been filed by or for it, and all information set forth in such Tax Returns is accurate and complete in all material respects;

 

(b) the Company has timely paid all amounts of Taxes that are due and payable by it whether or not shown or required to be shown on a Tax Return;

 

(c) the Company has not granted (or is not subject to) any waiver that is currently in effect of the period of limitations for the assessment of any Tax; no unpaid Tax deficiency has been assessed or asserted against or with respect to the Company by any Governmental Authority; there are no currently pending administrative or judicial proceedings, or any deficiency or refund litigation, with respect to Taxes of the Company; and any such assertion, assessment, proceeding or litigation disclosed on Schedule 3.10 is being contested in good faith through appropriate measures, and its status is described on Schedule 3.10 ;

 

(d) the Company has timely and properly withheld and paid all material amounts of Taxes required to have been withheld and paid, and has complied in all material respects with all information reporting and backup withholding requirements, including maintenance of required records with respect thereto, in connection with amounts paid or owing to any employee, independent contractor, creditor, stockholder or other third party;

 

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(e) there are no Liens for Taxes (other than Permitted Liens) upon any of the assets of the Company;

 

(f) the Company is not obligated to make any payments, or is a party to any agreement that under certain circumstances could obligate it to make any payments, that will not be deductible under Code § 280G;

 

(g) [Reserved];

 

(h) the Company is not a party to any Tax allocation or sharing agreement with any Person that is not an Affiliate of the Company other than under a lease or other commercial agreement entered into in the ordinary course of business and with respect to each such agreement, a principal purpose of the agreement is not the allocation or sharing of Taxes;

 

(i) the Company (A) has not been a member of an affiliated group filing a consolidated federal Income Tax Return or (B) does not have any liability for the Taxes of any Person under Treas. Reg. § 1.1502-6 (or any similar provision of state, local or foreign Law), as a transferee or successor, by contract or otherwise (except for contracts that were entered into in the ordinary course of business and a principal purpose of such contracts is not the allocation of Taxes);

 

(j) the Company has not been, in the past three (3) years, a party to a transaction reported or intended to qualify as a distribution governed by Code §§ 355, 356 or 361;

 

(k) the Company has not engaged in any transaction which is a “listed transaction” within the meaning of Treasury Regulation §§ 1.6011-4(b)(2) or 301.6111-2(b)(2) (irrespective of the Closing Date);

 

(l) the Company is not required to include a material item of income, or exclude a material item of deduction, for any period after the Closing Date as a result of (i) an installment sale transaction occurring on or before the Closing governed by Code § 453 (or any similar provision of foreign, state, or local Law); (ii) a transaction occurring on or before the Closing reported as an open transaction for federal Income Tax purposes (or any similar doctrine for foreign, state or local tax purposes); (iii) prepaid amounts received on or prior to the Closing; (iv) a change in method of accounting or use of an improper method of accounting, in each case, requested or occurring on or prior to the Closing; (v) an agreement entered into with any taxing authority on or prior to the Closing; or (vi) an election under Code §108(i);

 

(m) set forth on Schedule 3.10(l) is a complete and correct list of all jurisdictions in which the Company has filed Tax Returns;

 

(n) the Company does not have, and has never had, a permanent establishment in any foreign country, as defined in any applicable Tax treaty or convention between the United States and such foreign country, or otherwise has been subject to Tax in any material respect in a jurisdiction where it does not currently file Tax Returns or pay Taxes;

 

(o) the Company is classified, for U.S. federal income Tax purposes, as a C corporation;

 

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(p) the Company has not received any letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (or any comparable ruling from any other taxing authority); and

 

(q) the Company has made available to the REIT (i) true and complete copies of all U.S. federal and state Income Tax Returns and filed by the Company for the past three years and (ii) true and complete copies of all notices of deficiencies, notices of proposed adjustments, notices of assessments, revenue agent reports, closing agreements, settlement agreements, information document requests, and other similar documents, notices, or correspondence that the Company (or any of their representatives) has received from, sent to, or entered with (a) the IRS for the past three years or (b) a state taxing authority in the past three (3) years if, with respect to clause (ii), such documents are readily available to the Company.

 

3.11. Compliance with Law .

 

(a) The Company holds all material Permits necessary for the lawful conduct its business. The Company is in compliance in all material respects with the terms of such material Permits. The Company is (and has been for the prior five (5) years) in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Laws. To the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, no investigation or review by any Governmental Authority with respect to the Company is pending or threatened.

 

3.12. Fees and Expenses of Brokers and Others . The Company is not directly or indirectly committed to any liability for any brokers’ or finders’ fees or any similar fees in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or has retained any broker or other intermediary to act directly or indirectly on its behalf in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

3.13. Absence of Undisclosed Liabilities . Except as set forth on Schedule 3.13 , the Company does not have any liability or obligation of any kind, whether absolute, accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or otherwise, that is not adequately reflected or reserved against on the Most Recent Balance Sheet, except liabilities or obligations (i) that were incurred after the date of the Most Recent Balance Sheet in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practice, or (ii) that were incurred in connection with this Agreement.

 

3.14. Environmental Laws and Regulations . Except as set forth on Schedule 3.14 :

 

(a) the Company is, and has been for the prior five (5) years, in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Environmental Laws;

 

(b) there is no action or proceeding pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, any investigation pending, against the Company, nor, to Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, is any action, proceeding or investigation threatened against the Company, with respect to Hazardous Substances or Environmental Laws; and the Company has not received, any actual or proposed order, notice or other communication (written or oral) from any Governmental Authority or other Person of any actual or potential material violation of, or actual or potential material liability under, any Environmental Law including any corrective, investigatory or remedial obligations, or personal injury, property damage or natural resources damages claims arising under any Environmental Law;

 

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(c) the Company possesses and is in compliance in all material respects with all Permits that are required pursuant to any applicable Environmental Law (“ Environmental Permits ”) for the operation of the Company’s business and none of the Environmental Permits requires consent, notification or other action to remain in full force and effect following consummation of the transactions contemplated herein. All Environmental Permits are in full force and effect and no modification, suspension or cancellation is pending or, to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, threatened; and

 

(d) the Company has not assumed, by contract, agreement or operation of law, the liability of any other Person arising under Environmental Law.

 

3.15. Insurance . To the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, all policies of insurance covering the assets, business and operations of the Company (a) are in full force and effect with all premiums due having been paid in full and (b) are valid, outstanding and enforceable policies. During the past five (5) years, there has been no lapse in coverage or material reduction in scope of the insurance carried by the Company in the ordinary course of its business, and the Company has not received any notice of any proposed material increase in the premiums payable for coverage. None of the insurers of the Company has issued a reservation of rights letter received by the Company in the defense of claims. The Company has complied in all material respects with the terms and conditions of all of the insurance policies owned or held by the Company.

 

3.16. Material Contracts .

 

(a) Schedule 3.16 attached hereto sets forth a correct and complete list of the following Contracts (whether or not included on such schedule, the “ Material Contracts ”):

 

(i) each Contract that currently requires payment by, or payment to, the Company of more than $50,000 per year;

 

(ii) each note, mortgage, indenture, loan or credit agreement, security agreement, and other agreement and instrument reflecting outstanding obligations or available commitments for borrowed money or other Indebtedness;

 

(iii) any guarantee that may result in an obligation by the Company in excess of $10,000; and

 

(iv) all Leases.

 

(b) Assuming the due authorization, execution and delivery by the other parties thereto, each of the Material Contracts is valid, binding, in full force and effect and enforceable by and against the Company in accordance with its terms, except to the extent that its enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other Laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by equitable principles.

 

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(c) The Company is not in breach or default under any Material Contract. To the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, no material breach or material default under any Material Contract by any other party thereto has occurred. There is no event or condition which has occurred or exists which constitutes or which, with or without notice, the happening of any event and/or the passage of time, would constitute a material default or material breach under any Material Contract by the Company or, to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, any other party thereto, or would cause the acceleration of any obligation or loss of any material rights of any party thereto or give rise to any right of termination or cancellation thereof. The Company has delivered to the REIT true and complete copies of each written Material Contract and written summaries of the payment terms and other material terms of any oral Material Contracts.

 

(d) The Company has not received any notice (a) alleging breach of any Material Contract, (b) terminating or threatening to terminate any Material Contract or (c) of intent not to renew a Material Contract and, to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, no counterparty to a Material Contract has any intent to terminate or not renew such Material Contract.

 

(e) Except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect, and solely with respect to Contracts of the Company other than the Material Contracts: (i) each such Contract is valid, binding, in full force and effect and enforceable by and against the Company in accordance with its terms, except to the extent that its enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other Laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by equitable principles; (ii) the Company is not in breach or default under any such Contract, and to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, no breach or default under any such Contract by any party thereto other than the Company has occurred; and (iii) there is no event or condition which has occurred or exists which constitutes or which, with or without notice, the happening of any event or the passage of time, would constitute a material default or breach under any such Contract by the Company or, to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, any other party thereto, or would cause the acceleration of any obligation or loss of any material rights of any party thereto or give rise to any right of termination or cancellation thereof.

 

3.17. Real Property .

 

(a) The real property described on Schedule 3.17 constitutes all the real property owned by the Company (the “ Real Property ”). Other than the Real Property, the Company does not own, lease, sublease, license, occupy or use any real property. The Real Property constitutes all the real property necessary to conduct the Company’s business as currently conducted and as currently proposed by the Company to be conducted. The Company has provided the REIT with true and complete copies of all of the leases and subleases (including any exhibits, addendums, amendments or modifications related thereto) relating to the Real Property (collectively, the “ Leases ”).

 

(b) With respect to the Real Property:

 

(i) all rents and other amounts due under the Leases have been paid in full on or before the date when due and payable, and no security deposit has been applied in connection with a breach or default that has not been replaced in full;

 

(ii) no claim has been asserted against the Company adverse to its rights in the Real Property;

 

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(iii) there are no Liens encumbering the Real Property other than Permitted Liens;

 

(iv) all facilities, buildings, improvements and fixtures on the Real Property are in good condition and repair, subject to normal wear and tear, and are suitable for the continued operation of the Company’s business as currently conducted;

 

(v) to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, there are no pending or threatened condemnation proceedings, lawsuits or administrative actions relating to the Real Property or other matters affecting adversely the current use or occupancy thereof;

 

(vi) to the Knowledge of the Company Stockholder, the Real Property (A) is in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Laws relating to occupancy and operation thereof and there are no violations of Law related to the Real Property, (B) has received all material approvals of Governmental Authorities (including Permits) required in connection with the occupancy and operation thereof and (C) has been operated and maintained in all material respects in accordance with applicable Law;

 

(vii) all facilities located on the Real Property are supplied with utilities and other services necessary for the operation of such facilities by the tenant, including gas, electricity, water, telephone, sanitary sewer and storm sewer, all of which services are reasonably adequate in quality and quantity for the operation of the tenant’s business as currently conducted;

 

(viii) except as set forth on Schedule 3.17 , the Company has not granted a mortgage or security interest in the Real Property and/or the Leases; and

 

(ix) the Company does not owe, and will not owe in connection with the transactions contemplated under this Agreement, any broker’s fees and/or commissions in connection with the Real Property and/or the Leases.

 

3.18. Books and Records .

 

(a) The minute books of the Company have been delivered to the REIT. The books of account and stock record books of the Company are located at the Company’s offices, are complete and correct in all material respects, represent actual, bona fide transactions and have been maintained in accordance with applicable legal and accounting requirements.

 

(b) The Company has established and maintains a system of internal accounting controls reasonably adequate for the size, operations and business of the Company to ensure that (i) all transactions related to the Company are executed in accordance with management’s general or specific authorizations, (ii) transactions are recorded as necessary to permit the preparation of financial statements and to maintain proper accountability for assets and (iii) payments or actions prohibited by anti-bribery, corruption and similar Laws are detected. The Company has not identified or been made aware of any fraud that involves the Company, its Affiliates, or their management, or other current employees or any claim or allegation regarding any of the foregoing, and the Company has not received any written notice from its independent accountants regarding any of the foregoing.

 

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3.19. Accounts Receivable . All of the accounts receivable of the Company are (a) valid and enforceable claims, not subject to any valid defenses, set offs or counterclaims (net of reserves reflected in the Most Recent Balance Sheet), (b) determined in accordance with the Company’s historical accounting principles, consistently applied, (c) arose out of bona fide transactions in the ordinary course of business, (d) represent sales actually made or services actually performed or to be performed in the ordinary course of business in bona fide, arms-length transactions completed in accordance with the terms and provisions contained in any documents relating thereto and in compliance with Laws and (e) as of the date hereof have not been outstanding for more than 90 days from the date of invoice. As of the Closing Date, any reserves for collection losses related to the accounts receivable that are included in the Most Recent Balance Sheet will be reasonably adequate. The Company has not factored or discounted, or agreed to factor or discount, any accounts receivable.

 

3.20. Indebtedness . The Company’s Indebtedness as of the date hereof is set forth on Schedule 3.20.

 

3.21. Full Disclosure . The representations and warranties of the Company contained in this Agreement do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements contained herein or therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. The Company has not made any representations or statements that were misleading or inaccurate in any material respect or has withheld from or failed to disclose to the REIT any data, documents, or other information that could reasonably be expected to affect its ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement, or to conduct its business in the ordinary course.

 

ARTICLE IV

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE REIT AND MERGER

SUBSIDIARY

 

The REIT and Merger Subsidiary hereby represent and warrant to the Company Stockholder as follows:

 

4.1. Organization and Authority of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary . Each of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of the State of Maryland and Delaware, respectively. Each of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary has full corporate or limited liability company- power to execute and deliver and to perform its obligations under this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The REIT owns one hundred percent (100%) of the outstanding equity interests in Merger Subsidiary. Merger Subsidiary was formed for the purpose of effecting the transactions contemplated herein, holds no assets and has no liabilities, and has not engaged in any other business activities or conducted any operations (other than entering into this Agreement).

 

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4.2. Authority Relative to this Agreement . The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the REIT and Merger Subsidiary, as applicable, are within the corporate or limited liability company power and authority of such party. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby have been duly and validly authorized by the applicable governing body of each of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary and no other corporate proceedings on the part of the REIT or Merger Subsidiary are necessary to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. This Agreement has been or will be duly and validly executed and delivered by the REIT and Merger Subsidiary, and assuming the due authorization by the other parties thereto and the authorization, execution and delivery hereof and thereof by such other parties constitute or will constitute valid and binding agreements of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary, as applicable, enforceable against such party in accordance with its terms, except to the extent that their enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or other Laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by equitable principles.

 

4.3. Consents and Approvals; No Violations . No consent or approval of, and no notification, submission, or filing with any Governmental Authority is necessary or required in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the REIT or Merger Subsidiary or for the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby. Except as set forth on Schedule 4.3 attached hereto, neither the execution or delivery of this Agreement by the REIT or Merger Subsidiary, nor the performance of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby by the REIT or Merger Subsidiary will (a) conflict with or result in any breach of any provision of the respective organizational documents of the REIT or Merger Subsidiary (b) result in a material violation or material breach of, or constitute (with or without due notice or lapse of time or both) a material default (or give rise to any right of termination, amendment, cancellation or acceleration) under, any of the terms, conditions or provisions of any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, license, Contract or other instrument or obligation to which the REIT or Merger Subsidiary is a party or by which any of the properties or assets of the REIT or Merger Subsidiary may be bound or (c) violate any order, writ, injunction, decree, statute, rule or regulation applicable to the REIT or Merger Subsidiary or any of the properties or assets of the REIT or Merger Subsidiary.

 

4.4. REIT Common Stock . The issuance of the REIT Class A Common Stock and the REIT Class B Common Stock pursuant to the Merger has been duly authorized by all requisite corporate action of the REIT and upon issuance at Closing in accordance with the terms of this Agreement such stock will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable.

 

4.5. Litigation . As of the date hereof, there is no action, suit, proceeding or investigation pending or, to the knowledge of the REIT, threatened against or relating to the REIT or Merger Subsidiary before any Governmental Authority that seeks restraint, prohibition, damages or other relief in connection with this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

4.6. Fees and Expenses of Brokers and Others . Neither the REIT nor Merger Subsidiary is committed to any liability for any brokers’ or finders’ fees or any similar fees in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or has retained any broker or other similar intermediary to act directly or indirectly on its behalf in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

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4.7. Tax . The REIT intends to qualify as a real estate investment trust under the Code and Merger Subsidiary intends to be classified as disregarded as an entity separate from its owner under Treasury Regulations § 301.7701-3.

 

ARTICLE V

COVENANTS RELATING TO CONDUCT OF BUSINESS

 

5.1. Operation in the Ordinary Course . During the period from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, unless the REIT shall otherwise consent in writing and except as otherwise expressly required by this Agreement or required by Law, the Company shall (a) operate its business in the ordinary course, consistent with past practice; (b) use its reasonable efforts to preserve intact its assets (including its goodwill) and current business organizations, to keep and to maintain current relationships with its tenants, suppliers and others having business relationships with the Company; (c) pay its Indebtedness and trade and other accounts payable punctually when and as the same will become due and payable and perform and observe, in all material respects, its duties and obligations under all contracts; (d) pay all Taxes as they become due and payable and use reasonable efforts to maintain in full force and effect all insurance policies.

 

5.2. Affirmative and Negative Covenants . During the period from the date of this Agreement to the Effective Time, unless the REIT shall otherwise consent in writing (and except as otherwise expressly required by this Agreement or required by Law), the Company shall not, directly or indirectly:

 

(a) issue, sell or grant any shares of capital stock of any class or series, or any other equity interest, including securities or rights convertible into, exchangeable for, or evidencing the right to subscribe for any shares of capital stock or other equity interests, or any rights, warrants, options, calls, commitments or any other agreements of any character to purchase or acquire any shares of capital stock or other equity interests or any securities or rights convertible into, exchangeable for, or evidencing the right to subscribe for, any shares of capital stock or other equity interests in respect of, in lieu of, or in substitution for, shares or other equity interests outstanding on the date hereof;

 

(b)(i) split, combine, subdivide or reclassify any shares of its capital stock or (ii) declare, set aside for payment or pay any dividend, or make any other distribution, in respect of any of its capital stock, or (iii) redeem or repurchase any of its capital stock or any outstanding options, warrants or rights of any kind to acquire any shares of, or any outstanding securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for any shares of, its capital stock;

 

(c) amend or modify its certificate of incorporation or bylaws or effect or become a party to any recapitalization or similar transaction;

 

(d) other than borrowings by the Company in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, create, incur, assume or permit to exist any additional Indebtedness or guarantee any Indebtedness of another Person;

 

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(e) grant any Lien other than a Permitted Lien;

 

(f) acquire or agree to acquire by merging or consolidating with, or by purchasing a substantial portion of the assets of, any business or other Person;

 

(g) sell, lease, license, abandon or otherwise encumber or subject to any Lien or otherwise dispose of any of its properties, assets or rights or any interest therein;

 

(h) make or agree to make any capital expenditures that, when added to all other capital expenditures made by or on behalf of the Company since the date hereof, exceed $100,000;

 

(i) make or change any Tax election, change an annual Tax accounting period, adopt or change any Tax accounting method, file any amended Tax Return, enter into any closing agreement, settle any Tax claim or assessment relating to the Company, surrender any right to claim a refund of Taxes, consent to any extension or waiver of the limitations period applicable to any Tax claim or assessment relating to the Companies, or take any other similar action, if such election, adoption, change, amendment, agreement, settlement, surrender, consent or other action would have the effect of materially increasing the Tax liability of the Company for any period ending after the Closing Date or materially decreasing any Tax attribute of the Company existing on the Closing Date without, in any such case, having the effect of providing a substantially equivalent reduction in Tax liability for any period ending after the Closing Date or increase in one or more Tax attributes existing on or after the Closing Date;

 

(j) pay, discharge, settle or satisfy any claims, liabilities or obligations, other than (i) repayment of any Indebtedness, or (ii) the payment, discharge or satisfaction of claims (A) in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice or (B) as required by their terms as in effect on the date hereof;

 

(k) initiate any material action, suit, claim or proceeding against any tenant or vendor before any arbitrator or Governmental Authority except to the extent necessary to preserve any rights or claims;

 

(l) make any change in the financial or Tax accounting methods or accounting practices followed by the Company, except changes required by Law or by GAAP;

 

(m) make any loans or advances (except in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice) to, capital contributions to, or investments in, any other Person;

 

(n) enter into or materially amend, extend or terminate (other than upon expiration of such Contract), or waive, release or assign any rights or claims under, any Material Contract or any agreement or arrangement with any Company Affiliate;

 

(o) enter into any Contract that places any limitation on the method of conducting or scope of any business of the Company or any of its Affiliates;

 

(p) enter into any new line of business;

 

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(q) cause any material damage, destruction, or other casualty loss (whether or not covered by insurance) affecting the Company or its assets;

 

(r) waive, cancel, sell, lease, license or otherwise dispose of, for less than the face amount thereof, any claim or right it has against others;

 

(s) create any subsidiary of the Company;

 

(t) enter into any joint venture, partnership, strategic alliance or similar arrangement with any Person;

 

(u) take any other action which could reasonably be expected to cause (i) a breach or inaccuracy of any representation or warranty in Article III or (ii) a condition set forth in Article VII not to be satisfied;

 

(v) take any action with the intent to cause a representation or warranty to become untrue or incorrect; or

 

(w) agree to do any of the foregoing.

 

ARTICLE VI

ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS

 

6.1. Access to Information . Upon reasonable notice, the Company shall afford to the officers, employees, accountants, counsel and other representatives of the REIT, reasonable access during normal business hours during the period from the date hereof to the Effective Time, to all of the facilities and properties of the Company and the accountants, properties, books and records, Permits and Contracts of the Company and during such period, the Company shall furnish to the REIT all information concerning its business, financial condition, properties and personnel as the REIT may reasonably request.

 

6.2. Reasonable Efforts . Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, each of the Company and the REIT agrees to use reasonable efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions, and to do, or cause to be done, and to assist and cooperate with the other parties in doing, all things necessary, proper or advisable to consummate and make effective, in the most expeditious manner practicable, the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

6.3. Notification; Updates to Schedules .

 

(a) Prior to the Closing, each of the Company and the REIT shall notify the other party in writing if such party obtains knowledge of any material breaches or inaccuracies of any of the representations and warranties contained herein or any material breach of any covenant or other agreement hereunder by such party; provided that any such notification shall not cure any breach or inaccuracy or affect the other party’s rights and remedies under this Agreement.

 

(b) The Company shall deliver to the REIT prior to the Closing Date a true and complete schedule of changes (the “ Updated Schedules ”) to any of the information contained in the Disclosure Schedules (including changes to any other representations or warranties in Article III hereof as to which no Schedule has been created as of the date hereof but as to which a Schedule would have been required if such changes had existed on the date hereof), but only if such changes are required as a result of events or circumstances occurring after the date hereof and not as a result of any breach or failure to perform any covenant or agreement contained herein, and would render any representation or warranty inaccurate or incomplete at any time. The Updated Schedules shall be dated as of the Closing Date.

 

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6.4. Registration .

 

(a) Shelf Registration of the REIT Class A Common Stock . Following the date on which the REIT becomes eligible to use a registration statement on Form S-3 for the registration of securities (the “ S-3 Eligible Date ”), under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), the REIT shall use commercially reasonable efforts to file with the SEC a shelf registration statement under Rule 415 of the Securities Act (the “ Registration Statement ”), or any similar rule that may be adopted by the SEC, covering (i) the issuance of REIT Class A Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the Class B Common Stock Merger Consideration (the “ Conversion Shares ”) and/or (ii) the resale by the holder of the Conversion Shares and the Class A Common Stock Merger Consideration (together with the Conversion Shares, the “ Resale Shares ”). In connection therewith, the REIT will:

 

(i) use commercially reasonable efforts to have such Registration Statement declared effective;

 

(ii) to use our commercially reasonable efforts to keep the registration statement continuously effective (including the preparation an filing of any amendments and supplements necessary for that purpose) until the earlier of (i) the date that is two (2) years after the date of the effectiveness of the registration statement, (ii) the date on which all the Resale Shares registered on the registration statement are eligible for sale without registration pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act, or any successor rule thereto (“ Rule 144 ”) under the Securities Act without volume limitations or other restrictions on transfer thereunder, or (iii) the date on which all the Resale Shares registered by the registration statement are sold;

 

(iii) use commercially reasonable efforts to register or qualify the Resale Shares covered by the Registration Statement under the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdictions within the United States as required by law, and do such other reasonable acts and things as may be required of it to enable such holders to consummate the sale or other disposition in such jurisdictions of the Resale Shares; provided, however, that the REIT shall not be required to (i) qualify as a foreign corporation or consent to a general or unlimited service or process in any jurisdictions in which it would not otherwise be required to be qualified or so consent or (ii) qualify as a dealer in securities; and

 

(iv) otherwise use commercially reasonable efforts to comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the SEC in connection with the Registration Statement.

 

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The REIT further agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts to supplement or make amendments to the Registration Statement, if required by the rules, regulations or instructions applicable to the registration form utilized by the REIT or by the Securities Act or rules and regulations thereunder for the Registration Statement. The Company Stockholder agrees to furnish to the REIT, upon request, such information as may be required to complete and file the Registration Statement and to have the Registration Statement declared effective by the SEC.

 

In connection with and as a condition to the REIT’s obligations with respect to the filing of the Registration Statement pursuant to this Section 6.4(a) , the Company Stockholder agrees with the REIT that:

 

(i) he will provide in a timely manner to the REIT such information as reasonably required to complete the Registration Statement or as otherwise required to comply with applicable securities laws and regulations;

 

(ii) he will not offer or sell his Resale Shares until (A) such Resale Shares have been included in the Registration Statement and (B) it has received notice that the Registration Statement covering such Resale Shares, or any post- effective amendment thereto, has been declared effective by the SEC, such notice to have been satisfied by the posting by the SEC on www.sec.gov of a notice of effectiveness;

 

(iii) if the REIT determines in its good faith judgment, after consultation with counsel, that the use of the Registration Statement, including any pre- or post- effective amendment thereto, or the use of any prospectus contained in such Registration Statement would require the disclosure of important information that the REIT has a bona fide business purpose for preserving as confidential or the disclosure of which, in the judgment of the REIT, would impede the REIT’s ability to consummate a significant transaction, upon written notice of such determination by the REIT (which notice shall be deemed sufficient if given through the issuance of a press release or filing with the SEC and, if such notice is not publicly distributed, Andrew Spodek agrees to keep the subject information confidential and acknowledges that such information may constitute material non-public information subject to the applicable restrictions under securities laws), the Company Stockholder’s right to offer, sell or distribute his Resale Shares pursuant to such Registration Statement or prospectus or to require the REIT to take action with respect to the registration or sale of any Resale Shares pursuant to a Registration Statement (including any action contemplated by this Section 6.4(a) ) will be suspended until the date upon which the REIT notifies the Company Stockholder in writing (which notice shall be deemed sufficient if given through the issuance of a press release or filing with the SEC and, if such notice is not publicly distributed, the Company Stockholder agrees to keep the subject information confidential and acknowledges that such information may constitute material non-public information subject to the applicable restrictions under securities laws) that suspension of such rights for the grounds set forth in this paragraph is no longer necessary; provided, however, that the REIT may not suspend such rights for an aggregate period of more than 180 days in any 12-month period; and

 

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(iv) in the case of the registration of any underwritten equity offering proposed by the REIT (other than any registration by the REIT on Form S-8, or a successor or substantially similar form, of an employee stock option, stock purchase or compensation plan or of securities issued or issuable pursuant to any such plan), the Company Stockholder will agree, if requested in writing by the managing underwriter or underwriters administering such offering, not to effect any offer, sale or distribution of any REIT Common Stock or Resale Shares (or any option or right to acquire REIT Common Stock or Resale Shares) during the period commencing on the tenth day prior to the expected effective date (which date shall be stated in such notice) of the registration statement covering such underwritten primary equity offering or, if such offering shall be a “take-down” from an effective shelf registration statement, the tenth day prior to the expected commencement date (which date shall be stated in such notice) of such offering, and ending on the date specified by such managing underwriter in such written request to the Company Stockholder; provided, however, that the Company Stockholder shall not be required to agree not to effect any offer, sale or distribution of his Resale Shares for a period of time that is longer than the greater of 90 days or the period of time for which any senior executive of the REIT is required so to agree in connection with such offering.

 

(b) Listing on Securities Exchange . If the REIT lists or maintains the listing of REIT Common Stock on any securities exchange or national market system, it shall, at its expense and as necessary to permit the registration and sale of the Resale Shares hereunder, list thereon, maintain and, when necessary, increase such listing to include such Resale Shares.

 

(c) Registration Not Required . Notwithstanding the foregoing, the REIT shall not be required to file or maintain the effectiveness of a registration statement relating to Resale Shares after the first date upon which, in the opinion of counsel to the REIT, all of the Resale Shares covered thereby could be sold by the holders thereof either (i) pursuant to Rule 144 without limitation as to amount or manner of sale or (ii) pursuant to Rule 144 in one transaction in accordance with the volume limitations contained in Rule 144(e) under the Securities Act.

 

(d) Allocation of Expenses . The REIT shall pay all expenses in connection with the Registration Statement, including without limitation (i) all expenses incident to filing with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., (ii) registration fees, (iii) printing expenses, (iv) accounting and legal fees and expenses, except to the extent holders of Resale Shares elect to engage accountants or attorneys in addition to the accountants and attorneys engaged by the REIT, which fees and expenses for such accountants or attorneys shall be for the account of the holders of the Resale Shares, (v) accounting expenses incident to or required by any such registration or qualification and (vi) expenses of complying with the securities or blue sky laws of any jurisdictions in connection with such registration or qualification; provided, however, the REIT shall not be liable for, or pay (A) any discounts or commissions to any underwriter or broker attributable to the sale of Resale Shares, or (B) any fees or expenses incurred by holders of Resale Shares in connection with such registration that, according to the written instructions of any regulatory authority, the REIT is not permitted to pay.

 

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(e) Indemnification .

 

(i) In connection with the Registration Statement, the REIT agrees to indemnify each holder of Resale Shares and each Person who controls any such holder of Resale Shares within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act, against all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses (including reasonable costs of investigation) caused by any untrue, or alleged untrue, statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, preliminary prospectus or prospectus (as amended or supplemented if the REIT shall have furnished any amendments or supplements thereto) or caused by any omission or alleged omission, to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, except insofar as such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses are caused by any untrue statement, alleged untrue statement, omission, or alleged omission based upon information furnished to the REIT by the Company Stockholder or the holder for use therein. The REIT and each officer, director and controlling person of the REIT shall be indemnified by the Company Stockholder or holder of Resale Shares covered by the Registration Statement for all such losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses (including reasonable costs of investigation) caused by any untrue, or alleged untrue, statement or any omission, or alleged omission, based upon information furnished to the REIT by the Company Stockholder or the holder for use therein.

 

(ii) Promptly upon receipt by a party indemnified under this Section 6.4(e) of notice of the commencement of any action against such indemnified party in respect of which indemnity or reimbursement may be sought against any indemnifying party under this Section 6.4(e) , such indemnified party shall notify the indemnifying party in writing of the commencement of such action, but the failure to so notify the indemnifying party shall not relieve it of any liability that it may have to any indemnified party otherwise than under this Section 6.4(e) unless such failure shall materially adversely affect the defense of such action. In case notice of commencement of any such action shall be given to the indemnifying party as above provided, the indemnifying party shall be entitled to participate in and, to the extent it may wish, jointly with any other indemnifying party similarly notified, to assume the defense of such action at its own expense, with counsel chosen by it and reasonably satisfactory to such indemnified party. The indemnified party shall have the right to employ separate counsel in any such action and participate in the defense thereof, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be paid by the indemnified party unless (i) the indemnifying party agrees to pay the same, (ii) the indemnifying party fails to assume the defense of such action with counsel reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party or (iii) the named parties to any such action (including any impleaded parties) have been advised by such counsel that representation of such indemnified party and the indemnifying party by the same counsel would be inappropriate under applicable standards of professional conduct (in which case the indemnified party shall have the right to separate counsel and the indemnifying party shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of such separate counsel, provided that, the indemnifying party shall not be liable for more than one separate counsel). No indemnifying party shall be liable for any settlement of any proceeding entered into without its consent.

 

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(f) Contribution .

 

(i) If for any reason the indemnification provisions contemplated by Section 6.4(e) hereof are either unavailable or insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party in respect of any losses, claims, damages or liabilities referred to therein, then the party that would otherwise be required to provide indemnification or the indemnifying party (in either case, for purposes of this Section 6.4(f) , the “ Indemnifying Party ”) in respect of such losses, claims, damages or liabilities, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by the party that would otherwise be entitled to indemnification or the indemnified party (in either case, for purposes of this Section 6.4(f) , the “ Indemnified Party ”) as a result of such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expense, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of the Indemnifying Party and the Indemnified Party, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of the Indemnifying Party and Indemnified Party shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact related to information supplied by the Indemnifying Party or Indemnified Party, and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission. The amount paid or payable by a party as a result of the losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses referred to above shall be deemed to include any legal or other fees or expenses reasonably incurred by such party.

 

(ii) The parties hereto agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 6.4(f) were determined by pro rata allocation (even if the holders were treated as one entity for such purpose) or by any other method of allocation that does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to in the immediately preceding paragraph. No person or entity determined to have committed a fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person or entity who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.

 

(iii) The contribution provided for in this Section 6.4(f) shall survive the termination of this Agreement and shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of any Indemnified Party.

 

ARTICLE VII

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO CONSUMMATION OF THE MERGER

 

7.1. Conditions Precedent to Obligations of Each Party . The obligations of each party to consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement are subject to the satisfaction or waiver by such party at or prior to the Effective Time of the following conditions precedent:

 

(a) The pricing of the IPO shall have occurred.

 

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(b) There shall be no pending administrative or judicial proceeding initiated by any Governmental Authority that seeks to prevent consummation of the Merger or other transactions contemplated by this Agreement and no temporary restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction or other Governmental Order preventing the consummation of the Merger or other transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall have been issued by any court of competent jurisdiction or any other Governmental Authority and shall remain in effect, and there shall not be any Law enacted or deemed applicable to the Merger or other transactions contemplated by this Agreement that makes consummation of the Merger or such other transactions illegal or otherwise prohibits or interferes with the consummation of the Merger or such other transactions.

 

7.2. Conditions Precedent to Obligations of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary . The obligations of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary to consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement are subject to the satisfaction or waiver by the REIT at or prior to the Effective Time of the following conditions precedent:

 

(a) Each of the representations and warranties of the Company contained in this Agreement shall have been true and correct as of the date of this Agreement, and shall be true and correct as of the Closing Date as if made on such date (other than any representations and warranties made as of another date, which representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such other date) in all material respects (if not qualified by materiality or by Material Adverse Effect) or in all respects (if qualified by materiality or by Material Adverse Effect).

 

(b) Each of the covenants and agreements of the Company to be performed at or before the Closing pursuant to the terms of this Agreement shall have been duly performed in all material respects.

 

(c) The REIT shall have received a certificate dated as of the Closing Date and executed by the Company Stockholder certifying as to the matters set forth in Sections 7.2(a) and 7.2(b) .

 

(d) The REIT shall have received an affidavit from the Company Stockholder certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Code that the Company Stockholder is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate, or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(e) No change, event, fact, occurrence, circumstance or condition shall have occurred or arisen since the date of this Agreement that, individually or when considered together with all other matters, has had or would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on the Company.

 

7.3. Conditions Precedent to Obligations of the Company . The obligations of the Company to consummate the Merger and other transactions contemplated by this Agreement are subject to the satisfaction or waiver by the Company at or prior to the Effective Time of the following conditions precedent:

 

(a) Each of the representations and warranties of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary contained in Article IV shall have been true and correct as of the date of this Agreement, and shall be true and correct as of the Closing Date as if made on such date (other than any representations and warranties made as of another date, which representations and warranties shall be true and correct as of such other date) in all material respects (if not qualified by materiality or by Material Adverse Effect) or in all respects (if qualified by materiality or by Material Adverse Effect).

 

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(b) Each of the covenants and agreements of the REIT and Merger Subsidiary to be performed at or before the Closing pursuant to the terms of this Agreement shall have been duly performed in all material respects.

 

ARTICLE VIII

SURVIVAL; INDEMNIFICATION; TAX MATTERS

 

8.1. Survival of Representations, Warranties and Covenants . The representations and warranties of the Company and the REIT contained in this Agreement, or in any certificate or other instrument delivered pursuant to this Agreement, and all un-waived covenants or agreements required to be performed at or prior to the Closing, shall terminate on the date that is twelve (12) months after the Closing Date (or, if such date is not a business day, the immediately following business day), except that (i) any covenants or agreements that, by their express terms, survive beyond the Survival Date set forth in the preceding sentence shall survive until the end of such other period expressly set forth herein, (ii) the representations and warranties set forth in Section 3.10 (Tax Matters) (collectively, the “ Special Representations ”) and the covenants concerning Taxes set forth in Section 8.3 shall survive until ninety (90) days after the expiration of the statute of limitations applicable to the underlying claim (the “ Survival Date ”), As of the applicable Survival Date, the applicable representations, warranties, covenants and agreements (or in any instrument delivered pursuant hereto) shall automatically terminate and be of no further force or effect, and except as provided in Section 8.3 , no claims of any type whatsoever arising out of, based upon or relating in any way to any such representations, warranties, covenants and agreements may be brought by any party after such Survival Date.

 

8.2. Indemnification .

 

(a) Tax Treatment of Payments . All indemnification payments made under this Agreement shall be deemed to be an adjustment to the Merger Consideration to the extent permitted by applicable Law.

 

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(b) Preparation and Filing of Tax Returns . The Company Stockholder shall be responsible for preparing and filing all Tax Returns required to be filed by the Company for any period. All Tax Returns filed after the Closing Date for any Pre-Closing Tax Period shall be prepared in a manner that is consistent with the prior practice of the Company, except as otherwise required by applicable Law or agreed by the REIT. Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, the Company Stockholder shall not amend or cause or permit the Company to amend any Tax Return of or relating to the Company for any Pre-Closing Tax Period, unless such amendment is required under applicable law.The Company Stockholder shall submit to the REIT for its review and approval a draft of any Income Tax Return for any Pre-Closing Tax Period (including any Income Tax Return for a Straddle Period) at least forty-five (45) days prior to the due date (taking into account any extensions thereof) or, if the due date is within forty-five (45)) days after the Closing Date, as soon as practical prior to such due date. The REIT shall each have thirty (30) days after receipt of such draft Income Tax Return to notify the Company Stockholder of any disagreement with such draft Tax Return. If the REIT notifies the Company Stockholder of any disagreement with such draft Tax Return, the Company Stockholder shall revise such draft Tax Return for such change and notify the REIT of such change. If the REIT fails to notify the Company Stockholder of any disagreement after having timely received a draft Income Tax Return, then such draft Income Tax Return shall become final and binding on the parties. If the REIT and the Company Stockholder do not resolve such disagreement by the due date (including extensions) for the filing of such Income Tax Return, the Company Stockholder shall file the Income Tax Return in the form prepared by the Company Stockholder with such changes thereto as the REIT and the Company Stockholder may agree, such agreement not to be unreasonably withheld, and the REIT and the Company Stockholder shall select a nationally-recognized accounting firm mutually acceptable to them to resolve any remaining objections. The accounting firm shall be engaged to provide its determination within forty (40) days of the evidence necessary to resolve such dispute first being submitted to it. If an Income Tax Return prepared in accordance with the accounting firm’s determination reflects a change in the amount of Income Tax due or overpayment or refund due to the Company from that reflected in the Income Tax Return as filed, the Company Stockholder shall file an amended Income Tax Return consistent with such determination. The REIT and the Company Stockholder shall pay the fees and expenses of the accounting firm based on the degree to which the accounting firm accepts the respective positions of the parties.

 

(d) If any Tax Return for any Pre-Closing Tax Period requires the payment of any Taxes in excess of the amount of accrued Taxes (but only the actual amount of Taxes accrued and not any deferred Tax items) included in the Most Recent Balance Sheet and in the Final Net Working Capital Amount, the REIT shall be entitled to recover such amount from the Company Stockholder as an indemnification in accordance with Section 8.3(a) .

 

(e) The Company Stockholder and the REIT agree to cooperate with each other to the extent necessary in connection with the filing of any Income Tax Returns of the Company and any investigations or disputes with respect to prior Income Tax Returns.

 

8.3. Tax Indemnification .

 

(a) Subject to the terms of Sections 8.1 , 8.2 and this Section 8.3 , from and after the Closing, the Company Stockholder shall indemnify the Indemnified Persons against (i) all liability for Taxes of the Company for any Pre-Closing Tax Period in excess of the amount of accrued Taxes (but only the actual amount of Taxes accrued and not any deferred Tax items) included in the Most Recent Balance Sheet and in the Final Net Working Capital Amount; (ii) all liability of the Company for Taxes of all Persons (other than Company or the REIT Indemnified Persons) arising (A) under Treasury Regulations §1.1502-6 (or any similar provision of state or local Law) for federal, state and local Income Taxes of any other corporation which is or has been affiliated with the Company for any Pre-Closing Tax Period or (B) by reason of contract, successor liability or otherwise by operation of law; (iii); all Taxes of the Company Stockholder; and (iv) all Losses resulting from a breach or inaccuracy of the representations and warranties set forth in Section 3.10 of this Agreement. For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Company Stockholder under this Section 8.3(a) shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Section 8.3(a)(i) . In the case of any Straddle Period, the amount of any Taxes for the Pre-Closing Tax Period shall: (i) in the case of Taxes based on sales, receipts, gross income or net income, be determined based on an interim closing of the books as of the close of business on the Closing Date (and for such purpose, the taxable period of any partnership or other pass-through entity in which Company or any of its subsidiaries holds a beneficial interest shall be deemed to terminate at such time) and (ii) in the case of all other Taxes, be deemed to be the amount of such Tax for the entire taxable period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of days in the period ending on the Closing Date and the denominator of which is the number of days in such Straddle Period.

 

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(b) Except as expressly provided herein, the Company Stockholder shall be entitled to receive any Income Tax refunds of Income Taxes previously paid by the Company or any of its subsidiaries with respect to a Pre-Closing Tax Period that are received after the Closing Date. Notwithstanding the prior sentence, the Company Stockholder shall not be entitled to receive any Tax refund of the Company resulting from the carryback of a net operating, capital loss or other tax attribute incurred with respect to a Post-Closing Tax Period and any such Tax refund shall be the property of and shall be retained by the Surviving Company or the REIT.

 

(c) All claims for indemnification under this Section 8.3 shall be subject to, and handled in accordance with the provisions of Article VIII .

 

(d) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement, an Indemnified Person shall have the right to be indemnified, held harmless from, defended or reimbursed under this Section 8.3 only if such right is asserted on or before one hundred eighty (180) days after the expiration of the statute of limitations (including extensions thereof) applicable to the Tax in issue.

 

8.4. Tax Contests . The REIT agrees to give written notice to the Company Stockholder of the receipt of any written notice by the REIT or the Surviving Company which involves the assertion of any claim, or the commencement of any proceeding, in respect of which an indemnity may be sought by any Indemnified Person under Section 8.3(a) (a “Tax Claim”); provided, that failure or delay to comply with this provision shall not reduce such Indemnified Person’s right to indemnification hereunder except to the extent that the Company Stockholder is actually prejudiced by such failure or delay on the part of the REIT. If such Tax Claim results in the assessment or assertion of a Tax for which the Company Stockholder may be solely liable under Section 8.3(a) and could not reasonably result in an increase in the Tax liability of the Company with respect to a Post-Closing Tax Period, then the Company Stockholder may choose to control the contest or resolution of such Tax Claim (at the Company Stockholder’s expense) and if so shall provide written notice to the REIT of such intent; all other Tax Claims will be controlled by the REIT. The REIT or the Company Stockholder, as the case may be, will be entitled to participate fully in the defense of any Tax Claim in which a taxing authority could assert or assess any liability for Taxes that is otherwise controlled by the other party and to employ counsel of its choice for such purpose, the fees and expenses of which separate counsel of each of the REIT or the Company Stockholder will be borne by the REIT and the Company Stockholder, respectively. In addition, with respect to a contest or resolution controlled by the Company Stockholder, the Company Stockholder must employ counsel that is acceptable to the REIT. Neither the REIT nor the Company Stockholder, as the case may be, may settle any claim or cease to defend such Tax Claim without the prior written consent of the non-controlling party, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, provided, however, that if a Tax Claim is controlled by the Company Stockholder, then the REIT may withhold consent with respect to such Tax Claim if such settlement could reasonably be expected to increase the Tax liability for any Post-Closing Tax Period. For the avoidance of doubt, where the provisions of this Section 8.4 are in conflict with any other provision in this document, this Section 8.4 shall govern.

 

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ARTICLE IX

TERMINATION; AMENDMENT; WAIVER

 

9.1. Termination . This Agreement may be terminated and the Merger contemplated hereby may be abandoned at any time prior to the Effective Time, notwithstanding approval of this Agreement, the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby by the Company Stockholder:

 

(a) by mutual written consent of the REIT, Merger Subsidiary and the Company;

 

(b) by either the REIT or the Company (upon delivery of written notice to the other):

 

(i) if any court of competent jurisdiction or any Governmental Authority shall have issued an order, decree or ruling or taken any other action that shall have become final and non-appealable permanently enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting the Merger; or

 

(ii) if the Merger shall not have been consummated on or before December 31, 2019;

 

9.2. Effect of Termination . If this Agreement is so terminated and the Merger is not consummated, this Agreement shall forthwith become void and shall have no further force or effect other than the confidentiality provisions of Section 6.1 and the provisions of Sections 6.2 and 9.2 and Article X ; provided that nothing contained in this Section 9.2 shall relieve any party from liability for fraud, intentional misrepresentation or any willful breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement contained in this Agreement.

 

9.3. Amendment . This Agreement may be amended by action taken by the REIT, Merger Subsidiary and the Company; provided, however, that no amendment shall be made that under applicable Law requires the approval of the Company’s stockholders without the approval of the Company Stockholder. This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

9.4. Extension; Waiver . At any time prior to the Effective Time, the Company (on the one hand) and the REIT and the Merger Subsidiary (on the other hand) may, to the extent legally allowed, (i) extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or other acts of such other party hereto, (ii) waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties contained herein or in any document, certificate or writing delivered pursuant hereto by such other party hereto or (iii) waive compliance with any of the agreements or conditions contained herein by such other party hereto. Any agreement on the part of any such party to any such extension or waiver shall be valid only if set forth in an instrument in writing signed on behalf of such party. The failure of any party hereto to assert any of its rights hereunder shall not constitute a waiver of such rights.

 

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ARTICLE X

MISCELLANEOUS

 

10.1. Entire Agreement; Assignment . This Agreement and the schedules attached hereto (a) constitute the entire agreement among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all other prior agreements and understandings, both written and oral, between the parties or any of them with respect to the subject matter hereof and thereof, and (b) shall not be assigned by operation of Law or otherwise; provided, however, that the REIT may assign all or any portion of its rights hereunder to any Affiliate without the prior written consent of the Company. Any purported assignment in violation of this Section 10.1 shall be null and void.

 

10.2. Notices . All notices, requests, consents, claims, demands, waivers and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given: (a) when delivered by hand (with written confirmation of receipt); (b) when received by the addressee if sent by a nationally recognized overnight courier (receipt requested); or (c) on the third business day after the date mailed, by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid. Such communications must be sent to the respective parties at the following addresses (or at such other address for a party as shall be specified in a notice given in accordance with this Section 10.2 ):

 

if to the Company:

 

Attention: Andrew Spodek

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

with a copy (which shall not constitute notice) to:

 

if to the REIT or Merger Subsidiary:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

with a copy (which shall not constitute notice) to:

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 East Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219-4074

Attention: James V. Davidson

 

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or to such other address as the person to whom notice is given may have previously furnished to the others in writing in the manner set forth above.

 

10.3. Governing Law; Submission to Jurisdiction; Waiver of Jury Trial .

 

(a) This Agreement and the transactions contemplated herein, and all disputes between the parties under or related to this Agreement or the facts and circumstances leading to its execution or performance, whether in contract, tort or otherwise, shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without reference to the conflict of laws principles thereof.

 

(b) Each of the parties (i) irrevocably submits itself to the personal jurisdiction of all state and federal courts sitting in the State of New York including to the jurisdiction of all courts to which an appeal may be taken from such courts, in any action, suit or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement, any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or any facts and circumstances leading to its execution or performance, (ii) agrees that all claims in respect of any such action, suit or proceeding must be brought, heard and determined exclusively in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware ( provided  that, in the event that subject matter jurisdiction is declined by or unavailable in the Court of Chancery, then such action, suit or proceeding shall be heard and determined exclusively in any other state or federal court sitting in the State of Delaware), (iii) agrees that it shall not attempt to deny or defeat such personal jurisdiction by motion or other request for leave from such courts, (iv) agrees not to bring any action, suit or proceeding against the other party or its Affiliates arising out of or relating to this Agreement, any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or any facts and circumstances leading to its execution or performance in any other courts and (v) waives any defense of inconvenient forum to the maintenance of any action, suit or proceeding so brought. Each of the parties agrees to waive any bond, surety or other security that might be required of any other party with respect to any such action, suit or proceeding, including any appeal thereof.

 

(c) Each of the parties agrees that service of any process, summons, notice or document in accordance with Section 10.2 shall be effective service of process for any action, suit or proceeding brought against it by the other party in connection with Section 10.3(b) , provided that nothing contained herein shall affect the right of any party to serve legal process in any other manner permitted by applicable Law.

 

(d) EACH PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT ANY CONTROVERSY WHICH MAY ARISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT IS LIKELY TO INVOLVE COMPLICATED AND DIFFICULT ISSUES AND, THEREFORE, EACH SUCH PARTY IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LEGAL ACTION ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT CERTIFIES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT (A) NO REPRESENTATIVE OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER IN THE EVENT OF A LEGAL ACTION, (B) SUCH PARTY HAS CONSIDERED THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS WAIVER, (C) SUCH PARTY MAKES THIS WAIVER VOLUNTARILY, AND (D) SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION 10.3(d) .

 

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10.4. Specific Performance . The parties agree that irreparable damage for which monetary damages, even if available, would not be an adequate remedy, would occur in the event that any of the parties hereto do not perform the provisions of this Agreement (including failing to take such actions as are required of it hereunder to consummate this Agreement) in accordance with its specified terms or otherwise breach such provisions. The parties acknowledge and agree that the parties shall be entitled to seek an injunction, specific performance and other equitable relief to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically the terms and provisions hereof, this being in addition to any other remedy to which they are entitled at law or in equity. Any party seeking an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically the terms and provisions of this Agreement shall not be required to provide any bond or other security in connection with any such order or injunction. The remedies available to the parties pursuant to this Section 10.4 shall be in addition to any other remedy to which they are entitled at law or in equity, and the election to pursue an injunction or specific performance shall not restrict, impair or otherwise limit the parties from, in the alternative, seeking to terminate this Agreement and seeking monetary damages.

 

10.5. Interpretation .

 

(a) The table of contents, headings and captions used in this Agreement are for convenience only and are not to be given effect in the construction or interpretation of this Agreement.

 

(b) Whenever the term “include,” “includes” or “including” is used in this Agreement in connection with a listing of items, that listing is illustrative only and is not a limitation on the general scope of the classification, or as an exclusive listing of the items within the general scope.

 

(c) The terms “hereof,” “herein” and “hereunder” and terms of similar import will refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Agreement.

 

(d) Article, section, clause, subsection, exhibit and schedule references contained in this Agreement are references to articles, sections, clauses, subsections, exhibits and schedules of or to this Agreement, unless otherwise specified.

 

(e) Each defined term used in this Agreement has a comparable meaning when used in its plural or singular form. Each gender-specific term used in this Agreement has a comparable meaning whether used in a masculine, feminine or gender-neutral form.

 

(f) Any amount stated in this Agreement in “Dollars” or by reference to the “$” symbol means United States dollars.

 

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(g) Any reference to any party to this Agreement shall include such party’s successors and permitted assigns.

 

(h) Except as expressly stated otherwise herein, the specificity of any representation or warranty contained herein shall not be deemed to limit the generality of any other representation or warranty contained herein.

 

(i) Each party has been represented and advised by independent counsel of its choice in connection with the execution of this Agreement and has cooperated in the drafting and preparation of this Agreement and the documents delivered in connection herewith. Accordingly, any Law that would require interpretation of this Agreement or any document delivered in connection herewith, including any ambiguous, vague or conflicting term herein or therein, against the drafter should not apply and is expressly waived.

 

10.6. Parties in Interest . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure solely to the benefit of each party hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns, and nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended to or shall confer upon any other person (other than the Indemnified Persons) any rights, benefits or remedies of any nature whatsoever under or by reason of this Agreement.

 

10.7. No Recourse . This Agreement may only be enforced against, and any claims or causes of action that may be based upon, arise out of or relate to this Agreement, or the negotiation, execution or performance of this Agreement, may only be made against the entities that are expressly identified as parties hereto and no past, present or future, direct or indirect, equity holder, controlling person, Affiliate, director, officer, employee, incorporator, member, manager, partner, stockholder, agent, attorney or representative of any party hereto shall have any liability for any obligations or liabilities of the parties to this Agreement or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

10.8. Execution of this Agreement . This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which shall constitute one and the same agreement. The exchange of copies of this Agreement and of signature pages by facsimile or other electronic transmission shall constitute effective execution and delivery of this Agreement as to the parties and may be used in lieu of the original Agreement for all purposes. Signatures of the parties transmitted by facsimile or other electronic transmission shall be deemed to be their original signatures for all purposes.

 

10.9. Severability . If any term or other provision of this Agreement is invalid, illegal or incapable of being enforced as a result of any rule of Law or public policy, all other conditions and provisions of this Agreement shall nevertheless remain in full force and effect so long as the economic or legal substance of the transactions contemplated hereby is not affected by the absence of such provision in any manner adverse to any party. Upon such determination that any term or other provision is invalid, illegal or incapable of being enforced, the parties hereto shall negotiate in good faith to modify this Agreement so as to effect the original intent of the parties as closely as possible in a mutually acceptable manner to the end that the transactions contemplated hereby are fulfilled if practicable.

 

[Signature page follows.]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has caused this Agreement to be duly executed on its behalf, all as of the day and year first above written.

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name:  Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  UPH MERGER SUB LLC
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
UNITED PROPERTIES HOLDING INC.
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Andrew Spodek

 

Signature Page to Agreement and Plan of Merger

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.8  

 

AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE

 

This AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of May 14, 2019 by and among Rosalind Spodek, IL RS Postal LLC, an Illinois limited liability company, NY RS Postal LLC, a New York limited liability company, OK RS Postal LLC, an Oklahoma limited liability company, GA RS Postal LLC, a Georgia limited liability company, WA RS Postal LLC, a Washington limited liability company, MI RS Postal LLC, a Michigan limited liability company, CO RS Postal LLC, a Colorado limited liability company, CA RS Postal LLC, a California limited liability company, , AR RS Postal LLC, an Arkansas limited liability company, PA RS Postal LLC, a Pennsylvania limited liability company, (collectively, the “ Seller ”) and Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , the Seller is the record and beneficial owner of (i) equity interests (the “ Property Entity Interests ”) in the entities (the “ Property Entities ”) described on Exhibit A-1 hereto, which Property Entities are the direct or indirect owners of the real properties described on Exhibit A-1 hereto (the “ Indirect Properties ”), and (ii) undivided real property interests (the “ Direct Property Interests ”) in the real properties described on Exhibit A-2 hereto (the “ Direct Properties ”). The Property Entity Interests and the Direct Property Interests collectively are referred to herein as the “ Interests ” and the Indirect Properties and the Direct Properties collectively are referred to herein as the “ Properties .”

 

WHEREAS, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are related to the proposed initial underwritten public offering of shares of Class A common stock of the REIT (the “ IPO ”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Seller desires to sell, assign and convey the Interests to the REIT, and the REIT desires to acquire the Interests from the Seller, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE PURCHASE

 

1.1 Sale of Interests . The Seller hereby irrevocably agrees to sell, transfer and assign to the REIT at Closing (as defined herein) all of his right, title and interests in the Interests, together with any other interests the Seller may have in any of the Properties and the REIT agrees to purchase the Interests from Seller on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. The Seller shall transfer the Interests to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto, other than Permitted Liens.

 

 

 

 

1.2 Consideration. The total consideration for which the Seller agrees to sell, transfer and assign the Interests to the REIT, and which the REIT agrees to pay to the Seller, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing (as defined herein) shall be calculated as follows:

 

1.3 The consideration for the Property Entities on Exhibit A-1(B) shall be $450,659, the consideration for the Property Entities on Exhibit A-1(A) shall be $7,102,579.69 and the consideration for the Direct Property Interests on Exhibit A-2 shall be $3,784,742.31 (collectively, the “Consideration”). The Consideration shall be adjusted to give effect to Prorations, if any, for the Properties.

 

1.4 No Further Interest . The Seller acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by the Seller, the Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the REIT and the Seller shall no longer be an equity holder of any Property Entity, shall no longer be entitled to receive any distributions from any Property Entity, and shall have no further right, title or interest in any of the Properties or the Property Entities.

 

1.5 Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

 

“Adverse Consequences” means all liabilities, demands, claims, actions, causes of action, costs, expenses, damages (including incidental, special, but excluding consequential and punitive damages and lost profits), Taxes, losses, penalties, fines, judgments or amounts paid in settlement, including reasonable attorneys’ and accountants’ fees, including, without limitation, all Adverse Consequences incurred by the REIT. The term Adverse Consequences expressly includes any consequences arising from the REIT’s sending, or failure to send, any filings relating to transfer taxes due, or otherwise, in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including any interest, penalties or reassessment of the value of any Interest for purposes of ad valorem taxes, and the REIT’s failure to pay any transfer taxes due in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

“IPO Price” means the public offering price per share of the REIT’s Class A common stock set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the “ Prospectus ”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

“Permitted Liens” means such of the following: (a) liens for taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies not yet due and payable or, if due and payable, not yet delinquent; (b) pledges or deposits to secure obligations under workers’ compensation or unemployment laws or similar legislation or to secure public or statutory obligations; (c) easements, zoning restrictions, rights of way and other encumbrances on title to real property that do not render title to the property encumbered thereby unmarketable or materially adversely affect the use or value of such property for its present purposes; (d) tenancy leases; and (e) deposits to secure trade contracts (other than for debt), statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds, performance bonds and other obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business.

 

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“Post-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period beginning after the Closing Date.

 

“Pre-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date.

 

“Prorations” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which the Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date and shall include:

 

(a) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Property shall be prorated at Closing;

 

(b) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Properties and all other income from the Properties shall be prorated at Closing; and

 

(c) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the county in which the Property is located shall be prorated at Closing.

 

“Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

“Seller’s Percentage Interest” means, with respect to each Property Entity, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto under the heading “Seller’s Percentage Interest”, which reflects the Seller’s percentage ownership interest in each Property Entity pursuant to and in accordance with the applicable Governing Agreement (as defined herein) of the Property Entity.

 

“Straddle Period” means a taxable period beginning before and ending after the Closing Date.

 

ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Representations by the REIT . The REIT hereby represents and warrants to the Seller that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct and complete as of the Closing Date (as defined herein):

 

(a) Organization and Power . The REIT is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Maryland, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

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(b) The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the REIT of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the REIT and require no further action or approval of the REIT’s shareholders or of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the REIT.

 

2.2 Representations by the Seller . The Seller hereby represents and warrants to the REIT that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power; Due Authorization . The Seller has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Seller of his obligations hereunder and require no further action or approval of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the Seller. This Agreement and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of the Seller pursuant to this Agreement constitutes, or when executed and delivered, constitute, will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller, each enforceable against the Seller in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

(b) Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by the Seller has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to the Seller or to any Property, Interests or Property Entity.

 

(c) Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting the Seller in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of the Seller or any Property Entity, Interests or Property, (3) could adversely affect the ability of the Seller to perform his obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

(d) Good Title . Exhibit A-1 accurately sets forth the Seller’s Percentage Interest in each Property Entity and Exhibit A-2 accurately sets forth the Seller’s ownership interest in each Direct Property. The Seller is the sole record and beneficial owner of the Interests as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and Exhibit A-2 and has full power and authority to convey the Interests pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. No person has any community property rights, by virtue of marriage or otherwise, with respect to the Interests. The Seller has good and marketable title to the Interests. The Interests are free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, leaseholds by any party other than the current lessee, claims or any other matters affecting title thereto and at the Closing will be sold to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or other matters affecting title thereto, in each case other than Permitted Liens. No other person or entity has an option to purchase or a right of first refusal to purchase any of the Interests nor are there any agreements or understandings with respect to the voting, ownership or disposition of the Interests that could adversely affect the Seller’s ability to perform his obligations hereunder or the REIT’s ownership of the Interests following the Closing. There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Interests or any equity interest in any Property Entity that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

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(e) Indebtedness . There is no indebtedness of any Property Entity or with respect to any Property, other than as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and Exhibit A-2 hereto.

   

(f) No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by the Seller has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any Governing Agreement (as defined herein), contract or agreement of any Property Entity, or among the partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the contribution, acquisition and transfer of the Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g) Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, the Seller shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Interests or the REIT’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Property or any Property Entity after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

    

(h) Governing Documents . The Seller has performed all of its obligations under the limited liability company agreement or operating agreement, as such may have been amended from time to time, as applicable, of each Property Entity in which it owns an interest, (each a “ Governing Agreement ”and collectively, the “ Governing Agreements ”).

    

(i) Tax Treatment . The Seller represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own counsel advice regarding the tax consequences of the transfer of the Interests to the REIT pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. The REIT has not made any representation to the Seller regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the REIT or the REIT’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

(j) Bankruptcy with respect to the Seller . No Act of Bankruptcy has occurred with respect to the Seller or any Property Entity. As used herein, “ Act of Bankruptcy ” means if the Seller (A) applies for or consents to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator, of himself or of all or a substantial part of his property, (B) admits in writing his inability to pay his debts as they become due, (C) makes a general assignment for the benefit of his creditors, (D) files a voluntary petition or commences a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) is adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fails to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against him in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

 

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(k) Brokerage Commission . The Seller has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

    

(l) Foreign Persons . The Seller is not a “foreign person” within the meaning of Section 1445(f) or Section 1446(f) of the Code.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a) All representations and warranties of the Seller contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b) Following the Closing, the Seller shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of his representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto.

 

3.2 General Indemnification .

 

(a) From and after the Closing Date, the Seller shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the REIT and the REIT’s respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party ” and collectively, the “ Indemnified Parties ”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of the Seller contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto. In each case, the Seller shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties), and any necessary local counsel.

 

(b) The Seller shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting from an unrelated third-party claim relating to the Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to Closing.

 

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(c) With respect to any claim of an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the REIT agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from the Seller until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the REIT may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by either the Seller for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse the Seller in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by the Seller to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by the Seller with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by the Seller for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

3.3 Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to the Seller, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to the Seller will not relieve the Seller from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of the Seller by reason of the inability or failure of the Seller (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to the Seller, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit the Seller, at such Seller’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by the Seller and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that the Seller shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by the Seller. If the Seller shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of the Seller and at such Seller’s sole cost and expense.

 

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3.4 Limitations on Indemnification under Section 3.2(a) .

 

(a) The Seller shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Party under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration and then only to the extent of such excess. The Seller’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

(b)  Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of the Seller and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Party shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, the Seller shall not be liable to the Indemnified Party for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Party.

 

(c) The limitations in this Section 3.4 shall not apply to any obligations of the Seller with respect to Prorations under this Agreement.

 

3.5 Limitation Period .

 

(a) Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b) If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between the Seller and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by the Seller in cash.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

4.1 Covenants of the Seller .

 

(a) Satisfaction of Conditions . The Seller hereby covenants that the Seller shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the REIT’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the REIT shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the REIT in writing.

 

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(b) Consent to Transfers . The Seller hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to the Seller under the Governing Agreements or otherwise with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Property Entity or Property or any other company or property being sold or transferred to the REIT by the Seller.

 

(c) No Disposition or Encumbrance of Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall not without the prior written consent of the REIT: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Interests or any interest in any Property; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner any of the Interests or any Property.

 

(d) Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall, to the extent within his control, cause each Property Entity to conduct its business in the ordinary course consistent with past practice, and shall, to the extent within the Seller’s control, not permit any Property Entity or Property without the prior written consent of the REIT and the REIT, to: (i) enter into any material transaction not in the ordinary course of business; (ii) mortgage, pledge or encumber the Interests, any assets of the Property Entity or any Property, (iii) cause or permit any change to the existing use of any Property; (iv) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (v) file an entity classification election pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 301.7701-3(c) on Internal Revenue Service Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) to treat the Property Entity as an association taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes; (vi) make or change any other tax elections; (vii) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (viii) change any annual tax accounting period; (ix) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (x) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return ”); (xi) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (xii) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xiii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiv) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

4.2 Tax Matters .

 

(a) Tax Returns .

 

(1) Pre-Closing Tax Periods . The Seller shall cause each Property Entity to prepare and timely file all Tax Returns (other than amended Tax Returns) of each such Property Entity for any Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the Seller shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such Pre-Closing Tax Periods. Such Tax Returns shall be prepared in a manner consistent with past practice, except as otherwise required by law, and on such Tax Returns, no position shall be taken, election made or method adopted that is inconsistent with positions taken, elections made or methods used in preparing and filing similar Tax Returns in prior periods (including positions, elections or methods that would have the effect of deferring income to periods ending after the Closing Date or accelerating deductions to periods ending on or before the Closing Date). For the avoidance of doubt, the REIT or its assignee will have authority to sign any Tax Returns relating to the Property Entities that are filed after the Closing Date.

 

9

 

 

(2) Straddle Periods and Post-Closing Periods . The REIT or its assignee shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns of the Property Entities for all taxable periods other than the Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the REIT or is assignee shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such taxable periods. At least 45 days prior to the deadline for the filing of any Tax Return for a Straddle Period (and before the REIT or its assignee files such Tax Return), the REIT or its assignee shall furnish to the Seller a draft of such Tax Return and the Seller shall have the right to review, provide written comments on, and approve the portion of such draft Tax Return that relates to Taxes allocable to the portion of the Straddle Period for which the Seller is responsible.

 

(b) Tax Matters . The Seller shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the REIT or its assignee for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences including all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

(1) all Taxes of Seller (including all income Taxes of Seller);

 

(2) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation under Section 2.2(l) or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2 ;

    

(3) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Pre-Closing Tax Period: (i) all such Taxes of the Property Entities; (ii) all such Taxes of any other Person that the Property Entities are liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred in such Pre-Closing Tax Period; and (iii) all Taxes resulting from a Property Entity being a member of, or leaving, during a Pre-Closing Tax Period, an affiliated group of corporations that files a consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return for federal, state, local or foreign Tax purposes; and

    

(4) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Straddle Period: (i) the Taxes of a Property Entity attributable to the portion of such Straddle Period that ends on the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) ; and (ii) the Taxes of any other Person that a Property Entity is liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred on or before the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) .

   

For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Sellers under this Section 4.2 shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Article III .

 

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(c) Allocation of Taxes . For purposes of determining the amount of Taxes that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods and Straddle Periods for purposes of any obligation to indemnify for Taxes under Section 4.2(b) the parties agree to use the following conventions:

 

(1) Taxes in the form of interest, penalties, additions to tax or other additional amounts that are actually incurred, accrued, assessed or similarly charged on or after the Closing Date but that relate to Taxes that accrued on or before the Closing Date shall be treated as occurring prior to the Closing Date;

   

(2) Except for Taxes for which the REIT is responsible hereunder and for real estate taxes (apportioned pursuant to Section 1.5) , for all Taxes that are payable with respect to any Straddle Period, the portion of such Tax that is attributable to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date shall be allocated between the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the portion of the period beginning after the Closing Date using the following conventions:

 

i. in the case of such Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, net or gross income, Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any sale, receipt, use, transfer or assignments of property or other asset, or Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any payment or accrual of any amounts (including, without limitation, dividends, interest, or wages), the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall be the amount of Tax that would be payable for such portion of the Straddle Period if such Person filed a separate Tax Return with respect to such Taxes or Taxes solely for the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date using a “closing of the books” methodology for allocating items of such Tax Return; and

 

ii. in the case of all other such Taxes, the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall equal to the amount of Taxes for the entire Straddle Period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of calendar days in the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the denominator of which is the number of calendar days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

For purposes of clause (i), any item determined on an annual or periodic basis (including amortization and depreciation deductions and the effects of graduated rates) shall be allocated to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date based on the relative number of days in such portion of the Straddle Period as compared to the number of days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

(d) Survival . The obligations of the Seller to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that the Seller’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, the Seller’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such the Seller’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of the Seller under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

11

 

 

(e) The Seller and the REIT shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Interests, the Property Entities or the Properties as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The REIT shall promptly notify the Seller upon receipt by the REIT or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to the income, properties or operations of any of the Property Entities or with respect to any Property and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the REIT or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of the Seller with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. The Seller shall promptly notify the REIT in writing upon receipt by the Seller, or any of the Seller’s affiliates, of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments relating to the income, properties or operations of any of the Property Entities or with respect to any Property. The REIT and the Seller may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that the Seller shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Seller has acknowledged liability for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the REIT shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the REIT nor the Seller may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. The Seller and the REIT shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Sold Entities and the Properties, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

4.3 Relationship to Property Entities . The parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that, from and after the Closing (as defined herein), the Seller shall no longer be a member, partner, stockholder or equity owner, or, if applicable, managing member or general partner, of any Property Entity and shall have no rights or benefits under any Governing Agreement.

 

ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1 Conditions to the REIT’s Obligations . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the REIT’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the REIT’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

12

 

 

(a) IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

(b) Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

(c) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Seller pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the REIT, the Seller shall have delivered a certificate to the REIT to such effect in regard to the Seller’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

   

(d) Performance . The Seller shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 6.2 hereof.

 

(e) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

    

(f) Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents, if any, of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, if any, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

    

(g) Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(h) No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to any of the Property Entities, the Interests or any Property or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Property Entity or any Property.

 

(i) Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The REIT shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the REIT and its counsel.

 

5.2 Conditions to the Seller’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Seller’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

13

 

 

(a) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the REIT pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b) Performance . The REIT shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

(c) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

   

ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1 Closing . The consummation and closing (the “ Closing ”) of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the REIT may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to Closing set forth herein (the “ Closing Date ”), or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2 Seller’s Deliveries . At the Closing, the Seller shall deliver the following to the REIT in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the REIT by Sellers:

 

(a) Assignment of Interests in each Property Entity . An Assignment, in substantially the form of Exhibit B attached hereto with respect to the Property Entity Interests.

 

(b) Certificate . A certificate from the Seller certifying to the REIT the accuracy of the representations and warranties made by the Seller hereunder.

 

(c) FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from the Seller certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Internal Revenue Code that the Seller is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

   

(d) Deed . A special or limited warranty deed (or its local equivalent), executed by the Seller conveying all of the Seller’s right, title and interest to each Direct Property to the REIT.

 

(e) Property Documents . Copies of all existing title policies/commitments, surveys, plans and specifications, permits and approvals and other similar documents which pertain to each Property which may be in the Seller's possession or under its control.

    

(f) Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the REIT or required hereby.

 

14

 

 

6.3 Default Remedies . If the Seller defaults in performing any of the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement, the REIT shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from the Seller’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and the Seller’s obligation to convey the Interests to the REIT hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Notices . Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice, demand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

REIT:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 E. Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Attention: James V. Davidson

Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Seller:

 

Rosalind Spodek

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

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7.2 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitute the entire agreement and supersede each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any Person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

7.4 Governing Law .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

   

7.5 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

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7.6 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7 Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

7.9 Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder are for the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

7.10 Trial by Jury . The parties to this Agreement hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  SELLER :
       
  By: /s/ Rosalind Spodek
    Name: Rosalind Spodek
       
 

IL RS Postal LLC

   
  By: /s/ Rosalind Spodek
    Name: Rosalind Spodek
    Title: Member
       
  NY RS Postal LLC
       
  By: /s/ Rosalind Spodek
    Name: Rosalind Spodek
    Title: Member
       
  OK RS Postal LLC
       
  By: /s/ Rosalind Spodek
    Name: Rosalind Spodek
    Title: Member
       
  GA RS Postal LLC
       
  By: /s/ Rosalind Spodek
    Name: Rosalind Spodek
    Title: Member

 

[ Signature Page to the Rosalind Spodek Purchase and Sale Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

 

  WA RS Postal LLC
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Member
       
 

MI RS Postal LLC

   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Member
       
  CO RS Postal LLC
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Member
       
  CA RS Postal LLC
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Member
       
  PA RS Postal LLC
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Member

 

[ Signature Page to the Rosalind Spodek Purchase and Sale Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

  REIT :
       
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation
       
  By: /s/Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

[ Signature Page to the Rosalind Spodek Purchase and Sale Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

Exhibit A-1

 

Property Entities

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Indirect Property

 

 

Seller

Seller’s Percentage
Interest/Sold Entity
Indirect Property Mortgage
Indebtedness

Rosalind

Spadek

50% interest in Gary Glen
Park Realty LLC

 Peru, IN

 Gary, IN

 
50% interest in Asset  Glasgow, VA  
20024, LLC  Chicago, IL  
   Chester, WV  
   Flora, IN  
    Edina, MO  
    Dobson, NC  
   Chicago, IL  
   Buffalo, NY  
  50% interest in PPP Assets, LLC  Spring Grove, PA  
     Brockway, PA  
     Knox, PA  
     Frackville, PA  
     Girardville, PA  
      New Philadelphia, PA  
     Orwigsburg, PA  
      Ringtown, PA  

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

     Shoemakersville, PA    
     Tower City, PA    
     Williamstown, PA    
     Leola, PA    
     Castleton on Hudson, NY    
  50% interest in Asset 20024, LLC  Sundown, TX    
   Byron, MI    
   Barton, VT    
   Enosburg Falls, VT    
   Fairlee, VT    
   Groton, VT    
   Hartford, VT    
   Marlborough, NH    
   Port Henry, NY    
   Sheffield, VT    
   South Royalton, VT    
   Indian Rocks Beach, FL    
   Abington, MA    
   East Liverpool, OH    
   Poseyville, IN    
   Wadesville, IN    

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

Exhibit A-1(B)

 

Property Entities,

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property [Acquired after 1/1/2018]

  

  Seller Seller’s Percentage Interest/Sold Entity Indirect Property   Mortgage Indebtedness
Rosalind Spodek 50% interest in Gary Glen  Deville, LA  
  Park Realty, LLC  Scotland, SD  
Rosalind Spodek 50% interest in  Edgewood, IA  
  Asset 20024, LLC  Pelahatchie, MS  
     Kimball, NE  
     Winamac, IN 
     Ralls, TX

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

Exhibit A-2

 

Direct Properties

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property

 

Seller Seller’s
Percentage
Interest
  Property Mortgage Indebtedness
Rosalind Spodek 50%  Barstow, IL  
[IL RS Postal LLC]    Carbon Cliff, IL  
     Hillsdale, IL  
     Little York, IL  
     Lynn Center, IL  
     New Windsor, IL  
     Rapids City, IL  
     Alpha, IL  
     Orion, IL  
     Seatonville, IL  
Rosalind Spodek 50%   Hancock, NY  
[NY RS Postal LLC]     Elba, NY  
Rosalind Spodek 50%   Tulsa, OK  
[OK RS Postal LLC]        
Rosalind Spodek 50%   Vanndale, AR  
 [AR RS Postal LLC]        
Rosalind Spodek 50%   Cadwell, GA  
[GA RS Postal LLC]      Colquitt, GA  
      Meansville, GA  
Rosalind Spodek 50%   Tacoma, WA  
[WA RS Postal LLC]      
Rosalind Spodek 50%   Leslie, MI  
[MI RS Postal LLC]     Springport, MI  
      Chesaning, MI  
Rosalind Spodek 66 2/3%   Aurora, CO  
 [CO RS Postal LLC]        
Rosalind Spodek 50%   West Sacramento, CA  
 [CA RS Postal LLC]        
Rosalind Spodek 50%   Oakdale, PA  
 [PA RS Postal LLC]        

 

Exhibit A-2

 

 

Exhibit B

 

Assignment

 

The undersigned (“ Assignor ”), for good and valuable consideration paid to the Assignor by Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“ Assignee ”), pursuant to the Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated as of                         , 2019, by and between Assignor and Assignee (the “ Agreement ”), and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, good and indefeasible right, title and interest to the limited liability company interests described on Schedule A-1 hereto, including, without limitation, all right, title and interest, if any, of the undersigned in and to the assets of each such limited liability company and the right to receive distributions of money, profits and other assets from each such partnership, presently existing or hereafter at any time arising or accruing, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

The undersigned, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby covenants and agrees that, at any time and from time to time after the date hereof, upon the written request of Assignee, the undersigned will, without further consideration, do, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be done, executed, acknowledged and delivered, each of and all of such further acts, deeds, assignments, transfers, conveyances and assurances as may reasonably be required by Assignee in order to assign, transfer, set over, convey, assure and confirm unto and vest in Assignee, its successors and assigns, title to the interests described in Schedule A-1 hereto

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Assignment to be signed by a duly authorized officer this            day of                          , 201       .

 

                              , a
                                                                     
       
  By:                                      
    Name:                                       
    Title:  

 

 

 Exhibit B

 

Exhibit 10.9

 

AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE

 

This AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of May 14, 2019 by and between Sara Nathanson (the “ Seller ”) and Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , the Seller is the record and beneficial owner of (i) equity interests (the “ Property Entity Interests ”) in the entities (the “ Property Entities ”) described on Exhibit A-1 hereto, which Property Entities are the direct or indirect owners of the real properties described on Exhibit A-1 hereto (the “ Indirect Properties ”), and (ii) undivided real property interests (the “ Direct Property Interests ”) in the real properties described on Exhibit A-2 hereto (the “ Direct Properties ”). The Property Entity Interests and the Direct Property Interests collectively are referred to herein as the “ Interests ” and the Indirect Properties and the Direct Properties collectively are referred to herein as the “ Properties .”

 

WHEREAS, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are related to the proposed initial underwritten public offering of shares of Class A common stock of the REIT (the “ IPO ”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Seller desires to sell, assign and convey the Interests to the REIT, and the REIT desires to acquire the Interests from the Seller, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE PURCHASE

 

1.1 Sale of Interests . The Seller hereby irrevocably agrees to sell, transfer and assign to the REIT at Closing (as defined herein) all of his right, title and interests in the Interests, together with any other interests the Seller may have in any of the Properties and the REIT agrees to purchase the Interests from Seller on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. The Seller shall transfer the Interests to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto, other than Permitted Liens.

 

1.2 Consideration . The total consideration for which the Seller agrees to sell, transfer and assign the Interests to the REIT, and which the REIT agrees to pay to the Seller, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing (as defined herein) shall be calculated as follows:

 

The consideration for the Property Entities on Exhibit A-1(B) shall be $450,659, the consideration for the Property Entities on Exhibit A-1(A ) shall be $6,232,030 and the consideration for the Direct Property Interests on Exhibit A-2  shall be $2,523,896.69 (collectively, the “ Consideration ”). The the Consideration shall be adjusted to give effect to Prorations, if any, for the Properties.

 

 

 

 

1.3 No Further Interest . The Seller acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by the Seller, the Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the REIT and the Seller shall no longer be an equity holder of any Property Entity, shall no longer be entitled to receive any distributions from any Property Entity, and shall have no further right, title or interest in any of the Properties or the Property Entities.

 

1.4 Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following

meanings:

 

“Adverse Consequences” means all liabilities, demands, claims, actions, causes of action, costs, expenses, damages (including incidental, special, but excluding consequential and punitive damages and lost profits), Taxes, losses, penalties, fines, judgments or amounts paid in settlement, including reasonable attorneys’ and accountants’ fees, including, without limitation, all Adverse Consequences incurred by the REIT. The term Adverse Consequences expressly includes any consequences arising from the REIT’s sending, or failure to send, any filings relating to transfer taxes due, or otherwise, in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including any interest, penalties or reassessment of the value of any Interest for purposes of ad valorem taxes, and the REIT’s failure to pay any transfer taxes due in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

“IPO Price” means the public offering price per share of the REIT’s Class A common stock set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the “ Prospectus ”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

“Permitted Liens” means such of the following: (a) liens for taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies not yet due and payable or, if due and payable, not yet delinquent; (b) pledges or deposits to secure obligations under workers’ compensation or unemployment laws or similar legislation or to secure public or statutory obligations; (c) easements, zoning restrictions, rights of way and other encumbrances on title to real property that do not render title to the property encumbered thereby unmarketable or materially adversely affect the use or value of such property for its present purposes; (d) tenancy leases; and (e) deposits to secure trade contracts (other than for debt), statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds, performance bonds and other obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business.

 

“Post-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period beginning after the Closing Date.

 

“Pre-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date.

 

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“Prorations” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which the Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date and shall include:

 

(a) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Property shall be prorated at Closing;

 

(b) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Properties and all other income from the Properties shall be prorated at Closing; and

 

(c) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the county in which the Property is located shall be prorated at Closing.

 

“Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

“Seller’s Percentage Interest” means, with respect to each Property Entity, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto under the heading “Seller’s Percentage Interest”, which reflects the Seller’s percentage ownership interest in each Property Entity pursuant to and in accordance with the applicable Governing Agreement (as defined herein) of the Property Entity.

 

“Straddle Period” means a taxable period beginning before and ending after the Closing Date.

 

ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Representations by the REIT . The REIT hereby represents and warrants to the Seller that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct and complete as of the Closing Date (as defined herein):

 

(a) Organization and Power . The REIT is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Maryland, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(b) The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the REIT of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the REIT and require no further action or approval of the REIT’s shareholders or of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the REIT.

 

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2.2 Representations by the Seller . The Seller hereby represents and warrants to the REIT that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power; Due Authorization . The Seller has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Seller of his obligations hereunder and require no further action or approval of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the Seller. This Agreement and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of the Seller pursuant to this Agreement constitutes, or when executed and delivered, constitute, will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller, each enforceable against the Seller in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

(b) Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by the Seller has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to the Seller or to any Property, Interests or Property Entity.

 

(c) Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting the Seller in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of the Seller or any Property Entity, Interests or Property, (3) could adversely affect the ability of the Seller to perform his obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

(d) Good Title . Exhibit A-1 accurately sets forth the Seller’s Percentage Interest in each Property Entity and Exhibit A-2 accurately sets forth the Seller’s ownership interest in each Direct Property. The Seller is the sole record and beneficial owner of the Interests as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and Exhibit A-2 and has full power and authority to convey the Interests pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. No person has any community property rights, by virtue of marriage or otherwise, with respect to the Interests. The Seller has good and marketable title to the Interests. The Interests are free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, leaseholds by any party other than the current lessee, claims or any other matters affecting title thereto and at the Closing will be sold to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or other matters affecting title thereto, in each case other than Permitted Liens. No other person or entity has an option to purchase or a right of first refusal to purchase any of the Interests nor are there any agreements or understandings with respect to the voting, ownership or disposition of the Interests that could adversely affect the Seller’s ability to perform his obligations hereunder or the REIT’s ownership of the Interests following the Closing. There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Interests or any equity interest in any Property Entity that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

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(e) Indebtedness . There is no indebtedness of any Property Entity or with respect to any Property, other than as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and Exhibit A-2 hereto.

 

(f) No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by the Seller has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any Governing Agreement (as defined herein), contract or agreement of any Property Entity, or among the partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the contribution, acquisition and transfer of the Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g) Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, the Seller shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Interests or the REIT’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Property or any Property Entity after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

 

(h) Governing Documents . The Seller has performed all of its obligations under the limited liability company agreement or operating agreement, as such may have been amended from time to time, as applicable, of each Property Entity in which it owns an interest, (each a “ Governing Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Governing Agreements ”).

 

(i) Tax Treatment . The Seller represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own counsel advice regarding the tax consequences of the transfer of the Interests to the REIT pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. The REIT has not made any representation to the Seller regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the REIT or the REIT’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

(j) Bankruptcy with respect to the Seller . No Act of Bankruptcy has occurred with respect to the Seller or any Property Entity. As used herein, “ Act of Bankruptcy ” means if the Seller (A) applies for or consents to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator, of himself or of all or a substantial part of his property, (B) admits in writing his inability to pay his debts as they become due, (C) makes a general assignment for the benefit of his creditors, (D) files a voluntary petition or commences a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) is adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fails to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against him in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

 

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(k) Brokerage Commission . The Seller has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

(l) Foreign Persons . The Seller is not a “foreign person” within the meaning of Section 1445(f) or Section 1446(f) of the Code.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a) All representations and warranties of the Seller contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b) Following the Closing, the Seller shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of his representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto.

 

3.2 General Indemnification .

 

(a) From and after the Closing Date, the Seller shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the REIT and the REIT’s respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party ” and collectively, the “ Indemnified Parties ”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of the Seller contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto. In each case, the Seller shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties), and any necessary local counsel.

 

(b) The Seller shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting from an unrelated third-party claim relating to the Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to Closing.

 

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(c) With respect to any claim of an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the REIT agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from the Seller until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the REIT may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by either the Seller for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse the Seller in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by the Seller to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by the Seller with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by the Seller for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

3.3 Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to the Seller, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to the Seller will not relieve the Seller from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of the Seller by reason of the inability or failure of the Seller (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to the Seller, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit the Seller, at such Seller’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by the Seller and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that the Seller shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by the Seller. If the Seller shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of the Seller and at such Seller’s sole cost and expense.

 

3.4 Limitations on Indemnification under Section 3.2(a) .

 

(a) The Seller shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Party under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration and then only to the extent of such excess. The Seller’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

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(b) Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of the Seller and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Party shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, the Seller shall not be liable to the Indemnified Party for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Party.

 

(c) The limitations in this Section 3.4 shall not apply to any obligations of the Seller with respect to Prorations under this Agreement.

 

3.5 Limitation Period .

 

(a) Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b) If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between the Seller and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by the Seller in cash.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

4.1 Covenants of the Seller .

 

(a) Satisfaction of Conditions . The Seller hereby covenants that the Seller shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the REIT’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the REIT shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the REIT in writing.

 

(b) Consent to Transfers . The Seller hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to the Seller under the Governing Agreements or otherwise with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Property Entity or Property or any other company or property being sold or transferred to the REIT by the Seller.

 

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(c) No Disposition or Encumbrance of Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall not without the prior written consent of the REIT: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Interests or any interest in any Property; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner any of the Interests or any Property.

 

(d) Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall, to the extent within his control, cause each Property Entity to conduct its business in the ordinary course consistent with past practice, and shall, to the extent within the Seller’s control, not permit any Property Entity or Property without the prior written consent of the REIT and the REIT, to: (i) enter into any material transaction not in the ordinary course of business; (ii) mortgage, pledge or encumber the Interests, any assets of the Property Entity or any Property, (iii) cause or permit any change to the existing use of any Property; (iv) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (v) file an entity classification election pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 301.7701-3(c) on Internal Revenue Service Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) to treat the Property Entity as an association taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes; (vi) make or change any other tax elections; (vii) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (viii) change any annual tax accounting period; (ix) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (x) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return”); (xi) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (xii) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xiii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiv) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

4.2 Tax Matters .

 

(a) Tax Returns .

 

(1) Pre-Closing Tax Periods . The Seller shall cause each Property Entity to prepare and timely file all Tax Returns (other than amended Tax Returns) of each such Property Entity for any Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the Seller shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such Pre-Closing Tax Periods. Such Tax Returns shall be prepared in a manner consistent with past practice, except as otherwise required by law, and on such Tax Returns, no position shall be taken, election made or method adopted that is inconsistent with positions taken, elections made or methods used in preparing and filing similar Tax Returns in prior periods (including positions, elections or methods that would have the effect of deferring income to periods ending after the Closing Date or accelerating deductions to periods ending on or before the Closing Date). For the avoidance of doubt, the REIT or its assignee will have authority to sign any Tax Returns relating to the Property Entities that are filed after the Closing Date.

 

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(2) Straddle Periods and Post-Closing Periods . The REIT or its assignee shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns of the Property Entities for all taxable periods other than the Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the REIT or is assignee shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such taxable periods. At least 45 days prior to the deadline for the filing of any Tax Return for a Straddle Period (and before the REIT or its assignee files such Tax Return), the REIT or its assignee shall furnish to the Seller a draft of such Tax Return and the Seller shall have the right to review, provide written comments on, and approve the portion of such draft Tax Return that relates to Taxes allocable to the portion of the Straddle Period for which the Seller is responsible.

 

(b) Tax Matters . The Seller shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the REIT or its assignee for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences including all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

(1) all Taxes of Seller (including all income Taxes of Seller);

 

(2) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation under Section 2.2(l) or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2 ;

 

(3) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Pre-Closing Tax Period: (i) all such Taxes of the Property Entities; (ii) all such Taxes of any other Person that the Property Entities are liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred in such Pre-Closing Tax Period; and (iii) all Taxes resulting from a Property Entity being a member of, or leaving, during a Pre-Closing Tax Period, an affiliated group of corporations that files a consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return for federal, state, local or foreign Tax purposes; and

 

(4) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Straddle Period: (i) the Taxes of a Property Entity attributable to the portion of such Straddle Period that ends on the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) ; and (ii) the Taxes of any other Person that a Property Entity is liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred on or before the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) .

 

For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Sellers under this Section 4.2 shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Article III .

 

(c) Allocation of Taxes . For purposes of determining the amount of Taxes that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods and Straddle Periods for purposes of any obligation to indemnify for Taxes under Section 4.2(b) the parties agree to use the following conventions:

 

(1) Taxes in the form of interest, penalties, additions to tax or other additional amounts that are actually incurred, accrued, assessed or similarly charged on or after the Closing Date but that relate to Taxes that accrued on or before the Closing Date shall be treated as occurring prior to the Closing Date;

 

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(2) Except for Taxes for which the REIT is responsible hereunder and for real estate taxes (apportioned pursuant to Section 1.5 ), for all Taxes that are payable with respect to any Straddle Period, the portion of such Tax that is attributable to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date shall be allocated between the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the portion of the period beginning after the Closing Date using the following conventions:

 

i. in the case of such Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, net or gross income, Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any sale, receipt, use, transfer or assignments of property or other asset, or Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any payment or accrual of any amounts (including, without limitation, dividends, interest, or wages), the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall be the amount of Tax that would be payable for such portion of the Straddle Period if such Person filed a separate Tax Return with respect to such Taxes or Taxes solely for the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date using a “closing of the books” methodology for allocating items of such Tax Return; and

 

ii. in the case of all other such Taxes, the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall equal to the amount of Taxes for the entire Straddle Period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of calendar days in the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the denominator of which is the number of calendar days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

For purposes of clause (i), any item determined on an annual or periodic basis (including amortization and depreciation deductions and the effects of graduated rates) shall be allocated to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date based on the relative number of days in such portion of the Straddle Period as compared to the number of days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

(d) Survival . The obligations of the Seller to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that the Seller’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, the Seller’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such the Seller’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of the Seller under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

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(e) The Seller and the REIT shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Interests, the Property Entities or the Properties as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The REIT shall promptly notify the Seller upon receipt by the REIT or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to the income, properties or operations of any of the Property Entities or with respect to any Property and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the REIT or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of the Seller with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. The Seller shall promptly notify the REIT in writing upon receipt by the Seller, or any of the Seller’s affiliates, of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments relating to the income, properties or operations of any of the Property Entities or with respect to any Property. The REIT and the Seller may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that the Seller shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Seller has acknowledged liability for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the REIT shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the REIT nor the Seller may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. The Seller and the REIT shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Sold Entities and the Properties, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

4.3 Relationship to Property Entities . The parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that, from and after the Closing (as defined herein), the Seller shall no longer be a member, partner, stockholder or equity owner, or, if applicable, managing member or general partner, of any Property Entity and shall have no rights or benefits under any Governing Agreement.

 

ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1 Conditions to the REIT’s Obligations . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the REIT’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the REIT’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

(b) Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

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(c) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Seller pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the REIT, the Seller shall have delivered a certificate to the REIT to such effect in regard to the Seller’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

 

(d) Performance . The Seller shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 6.2 hereof.

 

(e) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

(f) Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents, if any, of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, if any, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

 

(g) Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(h) No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to any of the Property Entities, the Interests or any Property or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Property Entity or any Property.

 

(i) Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The REIT shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the REIT and its counsel.

 

5.2 Conditions to the Seller’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Seller’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the REIT pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b) Performance . The REIT shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

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(c) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1 Closing . The consummation and closing (the “ Closing ”) of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the REIT may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to Closing set forth herein (the “ Closing Date ”), or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2 Seller’s Deliveries . At the Closing, the Seller shall deliver the following to the REIT in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the REIT by Sellers:

 

(a) Assignment of Interests in each Property Entity . An Assignment, in substantially the form of Exhibit B attached hereto with respect to the Property Entity Interests.

 

(b) Certificate . A certificate from the Seller certifying to the REIT the accuracy of the representations and warranties made by the Seller hereunder.

 

(c) FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from the Seller certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Internal Revenue Code that the Seller is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

 

(d) Deed . A special or limited warranty deed (or its local equivalent), executed by the Seller conveying all of the Seller’s right, title and interest to each Direct Property to the REIT.

 

(e) Property Documents . Copies of all existing title policies/commitments, surveys, plans and specifications, permits and approvals and other similar documents which pertain to each Property which may be in the Seller's possession or under its control.

 

(f) Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the REIT or required hereby.

 

6.3 Default Remedies . If the Seller defaults in performing any of the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement, the REIT shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from the Seller’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and the Seller’s obligation to convey the Interests to the REIT hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

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ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Notices . Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice, demand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

REIT:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 E. Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Attention: James V. Davidson

Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Seller:

 

__________________

__________________

__________________

__________________

 

Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

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7.2 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitute the entire agreement and supersede each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any Person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

7.4 Governing Law .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

7.5 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

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7.6 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7 Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

7.9 Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder are for the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

7.10 Trial by Jury . The parties to this Agreement hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  SELLER :
   
  By: /s/ Sara Nathanson
    Name: Sara Nathanson
   
  REIT :
   
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

 

[ Signature Page the Sara Nathanson Purchase and Sale Agreement ]

 

 

 

  

Exhibit A-1(A)

 

Property Entities

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Indirect Property

 

 

Seller

Seller’s Percentage
Interest/Sold Entity
Indirect Property Mortgage
Indebtedness

Sara

Nathanson

50% interest in Gary Glen
Park Realty LLC

 Peru, IN

 Gary, IN

   ●
50% interest in Asset
20024, LLC

 Sundown, TX

 Byron, MI

   ●
     Barton, VT  
     Enosburg Falls, VT  
     Fairlee, VT  
     Groton, VT  
     Hartford, VT  
     Marlborough, NH  
     Port Henry, NY  
     Sheffield, VT  
     South Royalton, VT  
     Indian Rocks Beach, FL
     Abington, MA  
     East Liverpool, OH  
     Poseyville, IN  
    Wadesville, IN  

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

 

 

Exhibit A-1(B)

 

Property Entities,

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property [Acquired after 1/1/2018]

 

 

Seller

Seller’s Percentage
Interest/Sold Entity
Indirect Property Mortgage
Indebtedness
Sara Nathanson 50% interest in Gary Glen Park
Realty, LLC

● Deville, LA

● Scotland, SD

 

50% interest in Asset 20024,

LLC

● Edgewood, IA

● Pelahatchie, MS

● Kimball, NE

● Winamac, IN

● Ralls, TX

 

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

 

 

Exhibit A-2

 

Direct Properties

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property

 

 

Seller

Seller’s
Percentage
Interest
Property Mortgage
Indebtedness
 
Sara Nathanson 50%

● Barstow, IL

● Carbon Cliff, IL

● Hillsdale, IL

● Little York, IL

● Lynn Center, IL

● New Windsor, IL

● Rapids City, IL

● Seatonville, IL

● Alpha, IL

25%

● Orion, IL

● Elba, NY

50% West Sacramento, CA
50% Springport, MI
50% Chesaning, MI
33 1/3% Aurora, CO
50%

● Tulsa, OK

(Northside Station)

  50% Oakdale, PA

 

Exhibit A-2

 

 

 

 

Exhibit B

 

Assignment

 

The undersigned (“ Assignor ”), for good and valuable consideration paid to the Assignor by Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“ Assignee ”), pursuant to the Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated as of___________, 2019, by and between Assignor and Assignee (the “ Agreement ”), and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, good and indefeasible right, title and interest to the limited liability company interests described on Schedule A-1 hereto, including, without limitation, all right, title and interest, if any, of the undersigned in and to the assets of each such limited liability company and the right to receive distributions of money, profits and other assets from each such partnership, presently existing or hereafter at any time arising or accruing, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

The undersigned, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby covenants and agrees that, at any time and from time to time after the date hereof, upon the written request of Assignee, the undersigned will, without further consideration, do, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be done, executed, acknowledged and delivered, each of and all of such further acts, deeds, assignments, transfers, conveyances and assurances as may reasonably be required by Assignee in order to assign, transfer, set over, convey, assure and confirm unto and vest in Assignee, its successors and assigns, title to the interests described in Schedule A-1 hereto

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Assignment to be signed by a duly authorized officer this __ day of___________, 201__.

 

  ___________, a
  ____________ _____________

 

  By:  
  Name:
  Title:

 

 

Exhibit B

 

 

Exhibit 10.10

 

AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE

 

This AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of May 14, 2019 by and between Joseph Nathanson (the “ Seller ”) and Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , the Seller is the record and beneficial owner of (i) equity interests (the “ Property Entity Interests ”) in the entities (the “ Property Entities ”) described on Exhibit A-1 hereto, which Property Entities are the direct or indirect owners of the real properties described on Exhibit A-1 hereto (the “ Indirect Properties ”), and (ii) undivided real property interests (the “ Direct Property Interests ”) in the real properties described on Exhibit A-2 hereto (the “ Direct Properties ”). The Property Entity Interests and the Direct Property Interests collectively are referred to herein as the “ Interests ” and the Indirect Properties and the Direct Properties collectively are referred to herein as the “ Properties .”

 

WHEREAS, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are related to the proposed initial underwritten public offering of shares of Class A common stock of the REIT (the “ IPO ”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Seller desires to sell, assign and convey the Interests to the REIT, and the REIT desires to acquire the Interests from the Seller, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE PURCHASE

 

1.1 Sale of Interests . The Seller hereby irrevocably agrees to sell, transfer and assign to the REIT at Closing (as defined herein) all of his right, title and interests in the Interests, together with any other interests the Seller may have in any of the Properties and the REIT agrees to purchase the Interests from Seller on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. Seller shall transfer the Interests to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto, other than Permitted Liens.

 

 

 

 

1.2 Consideration . The total consideration for which the Seller agrees to sell, transfer and assign the Interests to the REIT, and which the REIT agrees to pay to the Seller, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing (as defined herein) shall be calculated as follows:

 

The consideration for the Property Entities on Exhibit A-1(B) shall be $247,660, the consideration for the Property Entities on Exhibit A-1(A) shall be $3,116,014.97 and the consideration for the Direct Property Interests on Exhibit A-2 shall be $1,346,549.34 (collectively, the “Consideration”). The Consideration shall be adjusted to give effect to Prorations, if any, for the Properties.

 

1.3 No Further Interest . The Seller acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by the Seller, the Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the REIT and the Seller shall no longer be an equity holder of any Property Entity, shall no longer be entitled to receive any distributions from any Property Entity, and shall have no further right, title or interest in any of the Properties or the Property Entities.

 

1.4 Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

 

“Adverse Consequences” means all liabilities, demands, claims, actions, causes of action, costs, expenses, damages (including incidental, special, but excluding consequential and punitive damages and lost profits), Taxes, losses, penalties, fines, judgments or amounts paid in settlement, including reasonable attorneys’ and accountants’ fees, including, without limitation, all Adverse Consequences incurred by the REIT. The term Adverse Consequences expressly includes any consequences arising from the REIT’s sending, or failure to send, any filings relating to transfer taxes due, or otherwise, in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including any interest, penalties or reassessment of the value of any Interest for purposes of ad valorem taxes, and the REIT’s failure to pay any transfer taxes due in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

“IPO Price” means the public offering price per share of the REIT’s Class A common stock set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the “ Prospectus ”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

“Permitted Liens” means such of the following: (a) liens for taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies not yet due and payable or, if due and payable, not yet delinquent; (b) pledges or deposits to secure obligations under workers’ compensation or unemployment laws or similar legislation or to secure public or statutory obligations; (c) easements, zoning restrictions, rights of way and other encumbrances on title to real property that do not render title to the property encumbered thereby unmarketable or materially adversely affect the use or value of such property for its present purposes; (d) tenancy leases; and (e) deposits to secure trade contracts (other than for debt), statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds, performance bonds and other obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business.

 

“Post-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period beginning after the Closing Date.

 

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“Pre-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date.

 

“Prorations” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which the Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date and shall include:

 

(a) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Property shall be prorated at Closing;

 

(b) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Properties and all other income from the Properties shall be prorated at Closing; and

 

(c) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the county in which the Property is located shall be prorated at Closing.

 

“Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

“Seller’s Percentage Interest” means, with respect to each Property Entity, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto under the heading “Seller’s Percentage Interest”, which reflects the Seller’s percentage ownership interest in each Property Entity pursuant to and in accordance with the applicable Governing Agreement (as defined herein) of the Property Entity.

 

“Straddle Period” means a taxable period beginning before and ending after the Closing Date.

 

ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Representations by the REIT . The REIT hereby represents and warrants to the Seller that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct and complete as of the Closing Date (as defined herein):

 

(a) Organization and Power . The REIT is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Maryland, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

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(b) The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the REIT of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the REIT and require no further action or approval of the REIT’s shareholders or of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the REIT.

 

2.2 Representations by the Seller . The Seller hereby represents and warrants to the REIT that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power; Due Authorization . The Seller has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Seller of his obligations hereunder and require no further action or approval of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the Seller. This Agreement and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of the Seller pursuant to this Agreement constitutes, or when executed and delivered, constitute, will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller, each enforceable against the Seller in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

(b) Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by the Seller has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to the Seller or to any Property, Interests or Property Entity.

 

(c) Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting the Seller in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of the Seller or any Property Entity, Interests or Property, (3) could adversely affect the ability of the Seller to perform his obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

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(d) Good Title . Exhibit A-1 accurately sets forth the Seller’s Percentage Interest in each Property Entity and Exhibit A-2 accurately sets forth the Seller’s ownership interest in each Direct Property. The Seller is the sole record and beneficial owner of the Interests as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and Exhibit A-2 and has full power and authority to convey the Interests pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. No person has any community property rights, by virtue of marriage or otherwise, with respect to the Interests. The Seller has good and marketable title to the Interests. The Interests are free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, leaseholds by any party other than the current lessee, claims or any other matters affecting title thereto and at the Closing will be sold to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or other matters affecting title thereto, in each case other than Permitted Liens. No other person or entity has an option to purchase or a right of first refusal to purchase any of the Interests nor are there any agreements or understandings with respect to the voting, ownership or disposition of the Interests that could adversely affect the Seller’s ability to perform his obligations hereunder or the REIT’s ownership of the Interests following the Closing. There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Interests or any equity interest in any Property Entity that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

(e) Indebtedness . There is no indebtedness of any Property Entity or with respect to any Property, other than as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and Exhibit A-2 hereto.

 

(f) No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by the Seller has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any Governing Agreement (as defined herein), contract or agreement of any Property Entity, or among the partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the contribution, acquisition and transfer of the Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g) Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, the Seller shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Interests or the REIT’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Property or any Property Entity after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

 

(h) Governing Documents . The Seller has performed all of its obligations under the limited liability company agreement or operating agreement, as such may have been amended from time to time, as applicable, of each Property Entity in which it owns an interest, (each a “ Governing Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Governing Agreements ”).

 

(i) Tax Treatment . The Seller represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own counsel advice regarding the tax consequences of the transfer of the Interests to the REIT pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. The REIT has not made any representation to the Seller regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the REIT or the REIT’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

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(j) Bankruptcy with respect to the Seller . No Act of Bankruptcy has occurred with respect to the Seller or any Property Entity. As used herein, “ Act of Bankruptcy ” means if the Seller (A) applies for or consents to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator, of himself or of all or a substantial part of his property, (B) admits in writing his inability to pay his debts as they become due, (C) makes a general assignment for the benefit of his creditors, (D) files a voluntary petition or commences a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) is adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fails to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against him in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

 

(k) Brokerage Commission . The Seller has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

(l) Foreign Persons . The Seller is not a “foreign person” within the meaning of Section 1445(f) or Section 1446(f) of the Code.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a) All representations and warranties of the Seller contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b) Following the Closing, the Seller shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of his representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto.

 

3.2 General Indemnification .

 

(a) From and after the Closing Date, the Seller shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the REIT and the REIT’s respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party ” and collectively, the “ Indemnified Parties ”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of the Seller contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto. In each case, the Seller shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties), and any necessary local counsel.

 

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(b) The Seller shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting from an unrelated third-party claim relating to the Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to Closing.

 

(c) With respect to any claim of an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the REIT agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from the Seller until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the REIT may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by either the Seller for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse the Seller in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by the Seller to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by the Seller with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by the Seller for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

3.3 Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to the Seller, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to the Seller will not relieve the Seller from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of the Seller by reason of the inability or failure of the Seller (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to the Seller, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit the Seller, at such Seller’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by the Seller and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that the Seller shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by the Seller. If the Seller shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of the Seller and at such Seller’s sole cost and expense.

 

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3.4 Limitations on Indemnification under Section 3.2(a) .

 

(a) The Seller shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Party under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration and then only to the extent of such excess. The Seller’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

(b) Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of the Seller and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Party shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, the Seller shall not be liable to the Indemnified Party for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Party.

 

(c) The limitations in this Section 3.4 shall not apply to any obligations of the Seller with respect to Prorations under this Agreement.

 

3.5 Limitation Period .

 

(a) Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b) If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between the Seller and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by the Seller in cash.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

4.1 Covenants of the Seller .

 

(a) Satisfaction of Conditions . The Seller hereby covenants that the Seller shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the REIT’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the REIT shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the REIT in writing.

 

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(b) Consent to Transfers . The Seller hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to the Seller under the Governing Agreements or otherwise with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Property Entity or Property or any other company or property being sold or transferred to the REIT by the Seller.

 

(c) No Disposition or Encumbrance of Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall not without the prior written consent of the REIT: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Interests or any interest in any Property; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner any of the Interests or any Property.

 

(d) Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall, to the extent within his control, cause each Property Entity to conduct its business in the ordinary course consistent with past practice, and shall, to the extent within the Seller’s control, not permit any Property Entity or Property without the prior written consent of the REIT and the REIT, to: (i) enter into any material transaction not in the ordinary course of business; (ii) mortgage, pledge or encumber the Interests, any assets of the Property Entity or any Property, (iii) cause or permit any change to the existing use of any Property; (iv) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (v) file an entity classification election pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 301.7701-3(c) on Internal Revenue Service Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) to treat the Property Entity as an association taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes; (vi) make or change any other tax elections; (vii) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (viii) change any annual tax accounting period; (ix) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (x) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return”); (xi) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (xii) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xiii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiv) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

4.2 Tax Matters .

 

(a) Tax Returns .

 

(1) Pre-Closing Tax Periods . The Seller shall cause each Property Entity to prepare and timely file all Tax Returns (other than amended Tax Returns) of each such Property Entity for any Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the Seller shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such Pre-Closing Tax Periods. Such Tax Returns shall be prepared in a manner consistent with past practice, except as otherwise required by law, and on such Tax Returns, no position shall be taken, election made or method adopted that is inconsistent with positions taken, elections made or methods used in preparing and filing similar Tax Returns in prior periods (including positions, elections or methods that would have the effect of deferring income to periods ending after the Closing Date or accelerating deductions to periods ending on or before the Closing Date). For the avoidance of doubt, the REIT or its assignee will have authority to sign any Tax Returns relating to the Property Entities that are filed after the Closing Date.

 

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(2) Straddle Periods and Post-Closing Periods . The REIT or its assignee shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns of the Property Entities for all taxable periods other than the Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the REIT or is assignee shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such taxable periods. At least 45 days prior to the deadline for the filing of any Tax Return for a Straddle Period (and before the REIT or its assignee files such Tax Return), the REIT or its assignee shall furnish to the Seller a draft of such Tax Return and the Seller shall have the right to review, provide written comments on, and approve the portion of such draft Tax Return that relates to Taxes allocable to the portion of the Straddle Period for which the Seller is responsible.

 

(b) Tax Matters . The Seller shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the REIT or its assignee for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences including all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

(1) all Taxes of Seller (including all income Taxes of Seller);

 

(2) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation under Section 2.2(l) or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2;

 

(3) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Pre-Closing Tax Period: (i) all such Taxes of the Property Entities; (ii) all such Taxes of any other Person that the Property Entities are liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred in such Pre-Closing Tax Period; and (iii) all Taxes resulting from a Property Entity being a member of, or leaving, during a Pre-Closing Tax Period, an affiliated group of corporations that files a consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return for federal, state, local or foreign Tax purposes; and

 

(4) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Straddle Period: (i) the Taxes of a Property Entity attributable to the portion of such Straddle Period that ends on the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c); and (ii) the Taxes of any other Person that a Property Entity is liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred on or before the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) .

 

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For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Sellers under this Section 4.2 shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Article III .

 

(c) Allocation of Taxes . For purposes of determining the amount of Taxes that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods and Straddle Periods for purposes of any obligation to indemnify for Taxes under Section 4.2(b) the parties agree to use the following conventions:

 

(1) Taxes in the form of interest, penalties, additions to tax or other additional amounts that are actually incurred, accrued, assessed or similarly charged on or after the Closing Date but that relate to Taxes that accrued on or before the Closing Date shall be treated as occurring prior to the Closing Date;

 

(2) Except for Taxes for which the REIT is responsible hereunder and for real estate taxes (apportioned pursuant to Section 1.5), for all Taxes that are payable with respect to any Straddle Period, the portion of such Tax that is attributable to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date shall be allocated between the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the portion of the period beginning after the Closing Date using the following conventions:

 

i. in the case of such Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, net or gross income, Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any sale, receipt, use, transfer or assignments of property or other asset, or Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any payment or accrual of any amounts (including, without limitation, dividends, interest, or wages), the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall be the amount of Tax that would be payable for such portion of the Straddle Period if such Person filed a separate Tax Return with respect to such Taxes or Taxes solely for the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date using a “closing of the books” methodology for allocating items of such Tax Return; and

 

ii. in the case of all other such Taxes, the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall equal to the amount of Taxes for the entire Straddle Period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of calendar days in the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the denominator of which is the number of calendar days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

For purposes of clause (i), any item determined on an annual or periodic basis (including amortization and depreciation deductions and the effects of graduated rates) shall be allocated to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date based on the relative number of days in such portion of the Straddle Period as compared to the number of days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

(d) Survival . The obligations of the Seller to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that the Seller’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, the Seller’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such the Seller’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of the Seller under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

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(e) The Seller and the REIT shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Interests, the Property Entities or the Properties as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The REIT shall promptly notify the Seller upon receipt by the REIT or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to the income, properties or operations of any of the Property Entities or with respect to any Property and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the REIT or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of the Seller with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. The Seller shall promptly notify the REIT in writing upon receipt by the Seller, or any of the Seller’s affiliates, of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments relating to the income, properties or operations of any of the Property Entities or with respect to any Property. The REIT and the Seller may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that the Seller shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Seller has acknowledged liability for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the REIT shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the REIT nor the Seller may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. The Seller and the REIT shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Sold Entities and the Properties, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

4.3 Relationship to Property Entities . The parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that, from and after the Closing (as defined herein), the Seller shall no longer be a member, partner, stockholder or equity owner, or, if applicable, managing member or general partner, of any Property Entity and shall have no rights or benefits under any Governing Agreement.

 

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ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1 Conditions to the REIT’s Obligations . In addition to any other conditions set

forth in this Agreement, the REIT’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the REIT’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

(b) Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

(c) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Seller pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the REIT, the Seller shall have delivered a certificate to the REIT to such effect in regard to the Seller’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

 

(d) Performance . The Seller shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 6.2 hereof.

 

(e) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

(f) Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents, if any, of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, if any, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

 

(g) Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(h) No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to any of the Property Entities, the Interests or any Property or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Property Entity or any Property.

 

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(i) Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The REIT shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the REIT and its counsel.

 

5.2 Conditions to the Seller’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Seller’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the REIT pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b) Performance . The REIT shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

(c) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1 Closing . The consummation and closing (the “ Closing ”) of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the REIT may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to Closing set forth herein (the “ Closing Date ”), or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2 Seller’s Deliveries . At the Closing, the Seller shall deliver the following to the REIT in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the REIT by Sellers:

 

(a) Assignment of Interests in each Property Entity . An Assignment, in substantially the form of Exhibit B attached hereto with respect to the Property Entity Interests.

 

(b) Certificate . A certificate from the Seller certifying to the REIT the accuracy of the representations and warranties made by the Seller hereunder.

 

(c) FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from the Seller certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Internal Revenue Code that the Seller is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

 

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(d) Deed . A special or limited warranty deed (or its local equivalent), executed by the Seller conveying all of the Seller’s right, title and interest to each Direct Property to the REIT.

 

(e) Property Documents . Copies of all existing title policies/commitments, surveys, plans and specifications, permits and approvals and other similar documents which pertain to each Property which may be in the Seller's possession or under its control.

 

(f) Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the REIT or required hereby.

 

6.3 Default Remedies . If the Seller defaults in performing any of the Seller’so bligations under this Agreement, the REIT shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from the Seller’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and the Seller’s obligation to convey the Interests to the REIT hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Notices . Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice,d emand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

REIT:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 E. Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Attention: James V. Davidson

Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Seller:

 

Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

7.2 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitute the entire agreement and supersede each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any Person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

7.4 Governing Law .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding. 

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(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law. 

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

7.5 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separatec ounterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

7.6 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for thec onvenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7 Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are herebyi ncorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid oru nenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

7.9 Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder aref or the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

7.10 Trial by Jury . The parties to this Agreement hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  SELLER :
   
  By: /s/ Joseph Nathanson
    Name: Joseph Nathanson
   
  REIT :
   
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title:  Chief Executive Officer

 

[Signature Page the Joseph Nathanson Purchase and Sale Agreement]

 

 

 

   

Exhibit A-1(A)

 

Property Entities

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Indirect Property

 

 

Seller

Seller’s Percentage
Interest/Sold Entity
Indirect Property Mortgage
Indebtedness
Joseph 50% interest in Hiler · Glasgow, VA  
Nathanson Buffalo, LLC · Chicago, IL  
    · Chester, WV  
    · Flora, IN  
    · Edina, MO  
    · Dobson, NC  
    · Chicago, IL  
    · Buffalo, NY  
  50% interest in PPP · Spring Grove, PA  
  Assets, LLC · Brockway, PA  
    · Knox, PA  
    · Frackville, PA  
    · Girardville, PA  
    · New Philadelphia, PA  
    · Orwigsburg, PA  
    · Ringtown, PA  
    · Shoemakersville, PA  
    · Tower City, PA  
    · Williamstown, PA  
   

● Leola, PA

Castleton on Hudson, NY

 
  50% interest in A&J ● Fabius, NY  
  Assets LLC ● Pompey, NY  
    ● Mount Vernon, IL  
    ● Deltaville, VA  
    ● Memphis, TN  
    ● Memphis, TN  

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

 

 

Exhibit A-1(B)

 

Property Entities,

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property [acquired after 1/1/18]

 

Seller Seller’s Percentage
Interest/Sold Entity
Indirect Property Mortgage
Indebtedness
Joseph Nathanson 50% interest in A&J Assets LLC

  · El Paso, TX

· El Paso, TX

  · Stinnett, TX

 

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

 

 

Exhibit A-2

 

Direct Properties

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property

 

 

Seller

Seller’s Percentage
Interest
Property Mortgage
Indebtedness
Joseph Nathanson 50% Princess Anne, MD  
33 1/3% Elizabeth, PA  
25% Orion, IL  
50% Tacoma, WA  
50% Cadwell, GA  
50% Colquitt, GA  
50% Meansville, GA  
50% Vanndale, AR  
50% Leslie, MI  
50% Hancock, NY  
25% Elba, NY  

 

 

 

Exhibit A-2

 

 

 

 

Exhibit B

 

Assignment

 

The undersigned (“ Assignor ”), for good and valuable consideration paid to the Assignor by Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“ Assignee ”), pursuant to the Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated as of____________ , 2019, by and between Assignor and Assignee (the “ Agreement ”), and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, good and indefeasible right, title and interest to the limited liability company interests described on Schedule A-1 hereto, including, without limitation, all right, title and interest, if any, of the undersigned in and to the assets of each such limited liability company and the right to receive distributions of money, profits and other assets from each such partnership, presently existing or hereafter at any time arising or accruing, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

The undersigned, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby covenants and agrees that, at any time and from time to time after the date hereof, upon the written request of Assignee, the undersigned will, without further consideration, do, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be done, executed, acknowledged and delivered, each of and all of such further acts, deeds, assignments, transfers, conveyances and assurances as may reasonably be required by Assignee in order to assign, transfer, set over, convey, assure and confirm unto and vest in Assignee, its successors and assigns, title to the interests described in Schedule A-1 hereto

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Assignment to be signed by a duly authorized officer this __ day of____________ , 201__.

 

  ___________, a
  ____________ _____________

 

  By:  
  Name:
  Title:

 

 

Exhibit B

 

Exhibit 10.11

 

AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE

 

This AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of May 14, 2019 by and between Bessi Marmer (the “ Seller ”) and Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , the Seller is the record and beneficial owner of equity interests (the “ Interests ”) in the entity (the “ Property Entity ”) described on Exhibit A-1 hereto, which Property Entity is the direct or indirect owners of the real property described on Exhibit A-1 hereto (the “ Property ”).

 

WHEREAS, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are related to the proposed initial underwritten public offering of shares of Class A common stock of the REIT (the “ IPO ”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Seller desires to sell, assign and convey the Interests to the REIT, and the REIT desires to acquire the Interests from the Seller, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE PURCHASE

 

1.1 Sale of Interests . The Seller hereby irrevocably agrees to sell, transfer and assign to the REIT at Closing (as defined herein) all of his right, title and interests in the Interests, together with any other interests the Seller may have in the Property and the REIT agrees to purchase the Interests from Seller on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. The Sellers shall transfer the Interest to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto, other than Permitted Liens.

 

1.2 Consideration . The total consideration for which the Seller agrees to sell, transfer and assign the Interests to the REIT, and which the REIT agrees to pay to the Seller, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing (as defined herein) shall be calculated as follows:

 

The consideration for the Property Entity on Exhibit A-1 shall be $163,633 (the “ Consideration ”). The Consideration shall be adjusted to give effect to Prorations, if any, for the Property.

 

1.3 No Further Interest . The Seller acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by the Seller, the Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the REIT and the Seller shall no longer be an equity holder of any Property Entity, shall no longer be entitled to receive any distributions from any Property Entity, and shall have no further right, title or interest in the Property or the Property Entity.

 

 

 

 

1.4 Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

 

“Adverse Consequences” means all liabilities, demands, claims, actions, causes of action, costs, expenses, damages (including incidental, special, but excluding consequential and punitive damages and lost profits), Taxes, losses, penalties, fines, judgments or amounts paid in settlement, including reasonable attorneys’ and accountants’ fees, including, without limitation, all Adverse Consequences incurred by the REIT. The term Adverse Consequences expressly includes any consequences arising from the REIT’s sending, or failure to send, any filings relating to transfer taxes due, or otherwise, in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including any interest, penalties or reassessment of the value of any Interest for purposes of ad valorem taxes, and the REIT’s failure to pay any transfer taxes due in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

“IPO Price” means the public offering price per share of the REIT’s Class A common stock set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the “ Prospectus ”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

“Permitted Liens” means such of the following: (a) liens for taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies not yet due and payable or, if due and payable, not yet delinquent; (b) pledges or deposits to secure obligations under workers’ compensation or unemployment laws or similar legislation or to secure public or statutory obligations; (c) easements, zoning restrictions, rights of way and other encumbrances on title to real property that do not render title to the property encumbered thereby unmarketable or materially adversely affect the use or value of such property for its present purposes; (d) tenancy leases; and (e) deposits to secure trade contracts (other than for debt), statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds, performance bonds and other obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business.

 

“Post-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period beginning after the Closing Date.

 

“Pre-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date.

 

“Prorations” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which the Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date and shall include:

 

(a) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Property shall be prorated at Closing;

 

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(b) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Property and all other income from the Property shall be prorated at Closing; and

 

(c) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the county in which the Property is located shall be prorated at Closing.

 

“Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

“Seller’s Percentage Interest” means, with respect to each Property Entity, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto under the heading “Seller’s Percentage Interest”, which reflects the Seller’s percentage ownership interest in each Property Entity pursuant to and in accordance with the applicable Governing Agreement (as defined herein) of the Property Entity.

 

“Straddle Period” means a taxable period beginning before and ending after the Closing Date.

 

ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Representations by the REIT . The REIT hereby represents and warrants to the Seller that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct and complete as of the Closing Date (as defined herein):

 

(a) Organization and Power . The REIT is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Maryland, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(b) The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the REIT of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the REIT and require no further action or approval of the REIT’s shareholders or of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the REIT.

 

2.2 Representations by the Seller . The Seller hereby represents and warrants to the REIT that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power; Due Authorization . The Seller has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Seller of his obligations hereunder and require no further action or approval of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the Seller. This Agreement and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of the Seller pursuant to this Agreement constitutes, or when executed and delivered, constitute, will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller, each enforceable against the Seller in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

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(b) Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by the Seller has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to the Seller or to any Property, Interests or Property Entity.

 

(c) Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting the Seller in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of the Seller or any Property Entity, Interests or Property, (3) could adversely affect the ability of the Seller to perform his obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

(d) Good Title . Exhibit A-1 accurately sets forth the Seller’s Percentage Interest in each Property Entity. The Seller is the sole record and beneficial owner of the Interests as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and has full power and authority to convey the Interests pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. No person has any community property rights, by virtue of marriage or otherwise, with respect to the Interests. The Seller has good and marketable title to the Interests. The Interests are free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, leaseholds by any party other than the current lessee, claims or any other matters affecting title thereto and at the Closing will be sold to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or other matters affecting title thereto, in each case other than Permitted Liens. No other person or entity has an option to purchase or a right of first refusal to purchase any of the Interests nor are there any agreements or understandings with respect to the voting, ownership or disposition of the Interests that could adversely affect the Seller’s ability to perform his obligations hereunder or the REIT’s ownership of the Interests following the Closing. There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Interests or any equity interest in any Property Entity that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

(e) Indebtedness . There is no indebtedness of any Property Entity or with respect to any Property, other than as set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto.

 

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(f) No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by the Seller has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any Governing Agreement (as defined herein), contract or agreement of any Property Entity, or among the partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the contribution, acquisition and transfer of the Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g) Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, the Seller shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Interests or the REIT’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Property or any Property Entity after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

 

(h) Governing Documents . The Seller has performed all of its obligations under the limited liability company agreement or operating agreement, as such may have been amended from time to time, as applicable, of each Property Entity in which it owns an interest, (each a “ Governing Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Governing Agreements ”).

 

(i) Tax Treatment . The Seller represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own counsel advice regarding the tax consequences of the transfer of the Interests to the REIT pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. The REIT has not made any representation to the Seller regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the REIT or the REIT’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

(j) Bankruptcy with respect to the Seller . No Act of Bankruptcy has occurred with respect to the Seller or any Property Entity. As used herein, “ Act of Bankruptcy ” means if the Seller (A) applies for or consents to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator, of himself or of all or a substantial part of his property, (B) admits in writing his inability to pay his debts as they become due, (C) makes a general assignment for the benefit of his creditors, (D) files a voluntary petition or commences a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) is adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fails to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against him in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

 

(k) Brokerage Commission . The Seller has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

(l) Foreign Persons . The Seller is not a “foreign person” within the meaning of Section 1445(f) or Section 1446(f) of the Code.

 

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ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a) All representations and warranties of the Seller contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b) Following the Closing, the Seller shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of his representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto.

 

3.2 General Indemnification .

 

(a) From and after the Closing Date, the Seller shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the REIT and the REIT’s respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party ” and collectively, the “ Indemnified Parties ”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of the Seller contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto. In each case, the Seller shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties), and any necessary local counsel.

 

(b) The Seller shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting from an unrelated third-party claim relating to the Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to Closing.

 

(c) With respect to any claim of an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the REIT agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from the Seller until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the REIT may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by either the Seller for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse the Seller in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by the Seller to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by the Seller with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by the Seller for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

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3.3 Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to the Seller, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to the Seller will not relieve the Seller from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of the Seller by reason of the inability or failure of the Seller (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to the Seller, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit the Seller, at such Seller’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by the Seller and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that the Seller shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by the Seller. If the Seller shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of the Seller and at such Seller’s sole cost and expense.

 

3.4 Limitations on Indemnification under Section 3.2(a) .

 

(a) The Seller shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Party under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration and then only to the extent of such excess. The Seller’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

(b) Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of the Seller and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Party shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, the Seller shall not be liable to the Indemnified Party for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Party.

 

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(c) The limitations in this Section 3.4 shall not apply to any obligations of the Seller with respect to Prorations under this Agreement.

 

3.5 Limitation Period .

 

(a) Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b) If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between the Seller and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by the Seller in cash.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

4.1 Covenants of the Seller .

 

(a) Satisfaction of Conditions . The Seller hereby covenants that the Seller shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the REIT’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the REIT shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the REIT in writing.

 

(b) Consent to Transfers . The Seller hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to the Seller under the Governing Agreements or otherwise with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Property Entity or Property or any other company or property being sold or transferred to the REIT by the Seller.

 

(c) No Disposition or Encumbrance of Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall not without the prior written consent of the REIT: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Interests or any interest in any Property; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner any of the Interests or any Property.

 

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(d) Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall, to the extent within his control, cause each Property Entity to conduct its business in the ordinary course consistent with past practice, and shall, to the extent within the Seller’s control, not permit any Property Entity or Property without the prior written consent of the REIT and the REIT, to: (i) enter into any material transaction not in the ordinary course of business; (ii) mortgage, pledge or encumber the Interests, any assets of the Property Entity or any Property, (iii) cause or permit any change to the existing use of any Property; (iv) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (v) file an entity classification election pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 301.7701-3(c) on Internal Revenue Service Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) to treat the Property Entity as an association taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes; (vi) make or change any other tax elections; (vii) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (viii) change any annual tax accounting period; (ix) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (x) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return ”); (xi) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (xii) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xiii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiv) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

4.2 Tax Matters .

 

(a) Tax Returns .

 

(1) Pre-Closing Tax Periods . The Seller shall cause each Property Entity to prepare and timely file all Tax Returns (other than amended Tax Returns) of each such Property Entity for any Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the Seller shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such Pre-Closing Tax Periods. Such Tax Returns shall be prepared in a manner consistent with past practice, except as otherwise required by law, and on such Tax Returns, no position shall be taken, election made or method adopted that is inconsistent with positions taken, elections made or methods used in preparing and filing similar Tax Returns in prior periods (including positions, elections or methods that would have the effect of deferring income to periods ending after the Closing Date or accelerating deductions to periods ending on or before the Closing Date). For the avoidance of doubt, the REIT or its assignee will have authority to sign any Tax Returns relating to the Property Entity that are filed after the Closing Date.

 

(2) Straddle Periods and Post-Closing Periods . The REIT or its assignee shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns of the Property Entity for all taxable periods other than the Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the REIT or is assignee shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such taxable periods. At least 45 days prior to the deadline for the filing of any Tax Return for a Straddle Period (and before the REIT or its assignee files such Tax Return), the REIT or its assignee shall furnish to the Seller a draft of such Tax Return and the Seller shall have the right to review, provide written comments on, and approve the portion of such draft Tax Return that relates to Taxes allocable to the portion of the Straddle Period for which the Seller is responsible.

 

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(b) Tax Matters . The Seller shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the REIT or its assignee for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences including all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

(1) all Taxes of Seller (including all income Taxes of Seller);

 

(2) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation under Section 2.2(l) or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2 ;

 

(3) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Pre-Closing Tax Period: (i) all such Taxes of the Property Entity; (ii) all such Taxes of any other Person that the Property Entity is liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred in such Pre-Closing Tax Period; and (iii) all Taxes resulting from a Property Entity being a member of, or leaving, during a Pre-Closing Tax Period, an affiliated group of corporations that files a consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return for federal, state, local or foreign Tax purposes; and

 

(4) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Straddle Period: (i) the Taxes of a Property Entity attributable to the portion of such Straddle Period that ends on the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) ; and (ii) the Taxes of any other Person that a Property Entity is liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred on or before the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) .

 

For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Sellers under this Section 4.2 shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Article III .

 

(c) Allocation of Taxes . For purposes of determining the amount of Taxes that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods and Straddle Periods for purposes of any obligation to indemnify for Taxes under Section 4.2(b) the parties agree to use the following conventions:

 

(1) Taxes in the form of interest, penalties, additions to tax or other additional amounts that are actually incurred, accrued, assessed or similarly charged on or after the Closing Date but that relate to Taxes that accrued on or before the Closing Date shall be treated as occurring prior to the Closing Date;

 

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(2) Except for Taxes for which the REIT is responsible hereunder and for real estate taxes (apportioned pursuant to Section 1.5) , for all Taxes that are payable with respect to any Straddle Period, the portion of such Tax that is attributable to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date shall be allocated between the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the portion of the period beginning after the Closing Date using the following conventions:

 

i. in the case of such Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, net or gross income, Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any sale, receipt, use, transfer or assignments of property or other asset, or Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any payment or accrual of any amounts (including, without limitation, dividends, interest, or wages), the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall be the amount of Tax that would be payable for such portion of the Straddle Period if such Person filed a separate Tax Return with respect to such Taxes or Taxes solely for the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date using a “closing of the books” methodology for allocating items of such Tax Return; and

 

ii. in the case of all other such Taxes, the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall equal to the amount of Taxes for the entire Straddle Period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of calendar days in the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the denominator of which is the number of calendar days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

For purposes of clause (i), any item determined on an annual or periodic basis (including amortization and depreciation deductions and the effects of graduated rates) shall be allocated to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date based on the relative number of days in such portion of the Straddle Period as compared to the number of days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

(d) Survival . The obligations of the Seller to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that the Seller’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, the Seller’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such the Seller’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of the Seller under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

(e) The Seller and the REIT shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Interests, the Property Entity or the Property as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The REIT shall promptly notify the Seller upon receipt by the REIT or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to the income, properties or operations of the Property Entity or with respect to any Property and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the REIT or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of the Seller with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. The Seller shall promptly notify the REIT in writing upon receipt by the Seller, or any of the Seller’s affiliates, of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments relating to the income, properties or operations of the Property Entity or with respect to any Property. The REIT and the Seller may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that the Seller shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Seller has acknowledged liability for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the REIT shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the REIT nor the Seller may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. The Seller and the REIT shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Sold Entities and the Property, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

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4.3 Relationship to Property Entity . The parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that, from and after the Closing (as defined herein), the Seller shall no longer be a member, partner, stockholder or equity owner, or, if applicable, managing member or general partner, of the Property Entity and shall have no rights or benefits under any Governing Agreement.

 

ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1 Conditions to the REIT’s Obligations . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the REIT’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the REIT’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

(b) Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

(c) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Seller pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the REIT, the Seller shall have delivered a certificate to the REIT to such effect in regard to the Seller’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

 

(d) Performance . The Seller shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 6.2 hereof.

 

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(e) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

(f) Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents, if any, of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, if any, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

 

g) (Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(h) No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to the Property Entity the Interests or any Property or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Property Entity or any Property.

 

(i) Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The REIT shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the REIT and its counsel.

 

5.2 Conditions to the Seller’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forthin this Agreement, the Seller’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the REIT pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b) Performance . The REIT shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

(c) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

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ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1 Closing . The consummation and closing (the “ Closing ”) of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the REIT may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to Closing set forth herein (the “ Closing Date ”), or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2 Seller’s Deliveries . At the Closing, the Seller shall deliver the following to the REIT in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the REIT by Sellers:

 

(a) Assignment of Interests in each Property Entity . An Assignment, in substantially the form of Exhibit B attached hereto with respect to the Interests.

 

(b) Certificate . A certificate from the Seller certifying to the REIT the accuracy of the representations and warranties made by the Seller hereunder.

 

(c) FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from the Seller certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Internal Revenue Code that the Seller is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

 

(d) [Reserved]

 

(e) Property Documents . Copies of all existing title policies/commitments, surveys, plans and specifications, permits and approvals and other similar documents which pertain to each Property which may be in the Seller's possession or under its control.

 

(f) Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the REIT or required hereby.

 

6.3 Default Remedies . If the Seller defaults in performing any of the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement, the REIT shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from the Seller’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and the Seller’s obligation to convey the Interests to the REIT hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

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ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Notices . Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice, demand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

REIT:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc. 75 Columbia Avenue Cedarhurst, NY 11516 Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP Riverfront Plaza, East Tower 951 E. Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219 Attention: James V. Davidson Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Seller:  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

7.2 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitute the entire agreement and supersede each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any Person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

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7.4 Governing Law .

 

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

7.5 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

7.6 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7 Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

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7.9 Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder are for the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

7.10 Trial by Jury . The parties to this Agreement hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  SELLER:  
     
  By: /s/ Bessi Marmer
    Name: Bessi Marmer
     
  REIT:  
     
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name:  Andrew Spodek
    Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

[ Signature Page to the Marmer Purchase and Sale Agreement ]

 

 

 

 

Exhibit A-1

 

Property Entities

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Indirect Property

 

  Seller’s Percentage       Mortgage
Seller   Interest/Sold Entity   Indirect Property   Indebtedness
Bessi Marmer Harbor   15% interest in   Milwaukee, WI   None
  Station LLC        

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

Exhibit B
Assignment

 

The undersigned (“ Assignor ”), for good and valuable consideration paid to the Assignor by Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“ Assignee ”), pursuant to the Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated as of , 2019, by and between Assignor and Assignee (the “ Agreement ”), and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, good and in defeasible right, title and interest to the limited liability company interests described on Schedule A-1 hereto, including, without limitation, all right, title and interest, if any, of the undersigned in and to the assets of each such limited liability company and the right to receive distributions of money, profits and other assets from each such partnership, presently existing or hereafter at any time arising or accruing, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

The undersigned, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby covenants and agrees that, at any time and from time to time after the date hereof, upon the written request of Assignee, the undersigned will, without further consideration, do, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be done, executed, acknowledged and delivered, each of and all of such further acts, deeds, assignments, transfers, conveyances and assurances as may reasonably be required by Assignee in order to assign, transfer, set over, convey, assure and confirm unto and vest in Assignee, its successors and assigns, title to the interests described in Schedule A-1 hereto

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Assignment to be signed by a duly authorized officer this __ day of ____________, 201__.

 

  ___________, a
  _____  ________________
     
  By:  
    Name:
    Title:

 

 

Exhibit B

 

Exhibit 10.12

 

AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE

 

This AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE (this “ Agreement ”)is made as of May 14, 2019 by and between IDJ Holdings, LLC (the “ Seller ”) and Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , the Seller is the record and beneficial owner of equity interests (the “ Interests ”)in the entities (the “ Property Entities ”)described on Exhibit A-1 hereto, which Property Entities are the direct or indirect owners of the real properties described on Exhibit A-1 hereto (the “ Properties ”).

 

WHEREAS, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are related to the proposed initial underwritten public offering of shares of Class A common stock of the REIT (the “ IPO ”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Seller desires to sell, assign and convey the Interests to the REIT, and the REIT desires to acquire the Interests from the Seller, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE PURCHASE

 

1.1 Sale of Interests . The Seller hereby irrevocably agrees to sell, transfer and assign to the REIT at Closing (as defined herein) all of his right, title and interests in the Interests, together with any other interests the Seller may have in any of the Properties and the REIT agrees to purchase the Interests from Seller on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. The Sellers shall transfer the Interests to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto, other than Permitted Liens.

 

1.2 Consideration . The total consideration (the “Consideration”) for which the Seller agrees to sell, transfer and assign the Interests to the REIT, and which the REIT agrees to pay to the Seller, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing (as defined herein) shall be calculated as follows:

 

The consideration for the Property Entities on Exhibit A-1(B) shall be $247,660 and the consideration for the Properties on Exhibit A-1(A) shall be $766,208 (collectively, the “Consideration”). The Consideration shall be adjusted to give effect to Prorations, if any, for the Properties.

 

 

 

  

1.3 No Further Interest . The Seller acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by the Seller, the Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the REIT and the Seller shall no longer be an equity holder of any Property Entity, shall no longer be entitled to receive any distributions from any Property Entity, and shall have no further right, title or interest in any of the Properties or the Property Entities.

 

1.4 Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

 

“Adverse Consequences” means all liabilities, demands, claims, actions, causes of action, costs, expenses, damages (including incidental, special, but excluding consequential and punitive damages and lost profits), Taxes, losses, penalties, fines, judgments or amounts paid in settlement, including reasonable attorneys’ and accountants’ fees, including, without limitation, all Adverse Consequences incurred by the REIT. The term Adverse Consequences expressly includes any consequences arising from the REIT’s sending, or failure to send, any filings relating to transfer taxes due, or otherwise, in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including any interest, penalties or reassessment of the value of any Interest for purposes of ad valorem taxes, and the REIT’s failure to pay any transfer taxes due in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

“IPO Price” means the public offering price per share of the REIT’s Class A common stock set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the “ Prospectus”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

“Permitted Liens” means such of the following: (a) liens for taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies not yet due and payable or, if due and payable, not yet delinquent; (b) pledges or deposits to secure obligations under workers’ compensation or unemployment laws or similar legislation or to secure public or statutory obligations; (c) easements, zoning restrictions, rights of way and other encumbrances on title to real property that do not render title to the property encumbered thereby unmarketable or materially adversely affect the use or value of such property for its present purposes; (d) tenancy leases; and (e) deposits to secure trade contracts (other than for debt), statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds, performance bonds and other obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business.

 

“Post-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period beginning after the Closing Date.

 

“Pre-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date and, in the case of a Straddle Period, the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date.

 

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“Prorations” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which the Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date and shall include:

 

(a) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Property shall be prorated at Closing;

 

(b) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Properties and all other income from the Properties shall be prorated at Closing; and

 

(c) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the county in which the Property is located shall be prorated at Closing.

 

“Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

“Seller’s Percentage Interest” means, with respect to each Property Entity, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto under the heading “Seller’s Percentage Interest”, which reflects the Seller’s percentage ownership interest in each Property Entity pursuant to and in accordance with the applicable Governing Agreement (as defined herein) of the Property Entity.

 

“Straddle Period” means a taxable period beginning before and ending after the Closing Date.

 

ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Representations by the REIT . The REIT hereby represents and warrants to the Seller that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct and complete as of the Closing Date (as defined herein):

 

(a) Organization and Power . The REIT is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Maryland, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(b) The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the REIT of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the REIT and require no further action or approval of the REIT’s shareholders or of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the REIT.

 

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2.2 Representations by the Seller . The Seller hereby represents and warrants to the REIT that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power; Due Authorization . The Seller has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Seller of his obligations hereunder and require no further action or approval of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the Seller. This Agreement and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of the Seller pursuant to this Agreement constitutes, or when executed and delivered, constitute, will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller, each enforceable against the Seller in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

(b) Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by the Seller has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to the Seller or to any Property, Interests or Property Entity.

 

(c) Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting the Seller in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of the Seller or any Property Entity, Interests or Property, (3) could adversely affect the ability of the Seller to perform his obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

(d) Good Title . Exhibit A-1 accurately sets forth the Seller’s Percentage Interest in each Property Entity. The Seller is the sole record and beneficial owner of the Interests as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and has full power and authority to convey the Interests pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. No person has any community property rights, by virtue of marriage or otherwise, with respect to the Interests. The Seller has good and marketable title to the Interests. The Interests are free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, leaseholds by any party other than the current lessee, claims or any other matters affecting title thereto and at the Closing will be sold to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or other matters affecting title thereto, in each case other than Permitted Liens. No other person or entity has an option to purchase or a right of first refusal to purchase any of the Interests nor are there any agreements or understandings with respect to the voting, ownership or disposition of the Interests that could adversely affect the Seller’s ability to perform his obligations hereunder or the REIT’s ownership of the Interests following the Closing. There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Interests or any equity interest in any Property Entity that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

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(e) Indebtedness . There is no indebtedness of any Property Entity or with respect to any Property, other than as set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto.

 

(f) No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by the Seller has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any Governing Agreement (as defined herein), contract or agreement of any Property Entity, or among the partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the contribution, acquisition and transfer of the Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g) Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, the Seller shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Interests or the REIT’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Property or any Property Entity after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

 

(h) Governing Documents . The Seller has performed all of its obligations under the limited liability company agreement or operating agreement, as such may have been amended from time to time, as applicable, of each Property Entity in which it owns an interest, (each a “ Governing Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Governing Agreements ”).

 

(i) Tax Treatment . The Seller represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own counsel advice regarding the tax consequences of the transfer of the Interests to the REIT pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. The REIT has not made any representation to the Seller regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the REIT or the REIT’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

(j) Bankruptcy with respect to the Seller . No Act of Bankruptcy has occurred with respect to the Seller or any Property Entity. As used herein, “ Act of Bankruptcy ” means if the Seller (A) applies for or consents to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator, of himself or of all or a substantial part of his property, (B) admits in writing his inability to pay his debts as they become due, (C) makes a general assignment for the benefit of his creditors, (D) files a voluntary petition or commences a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) is adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding- up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fails to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against him in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

 

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(k) Brokerage Commission . The Seller has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

(l) Foreign Persons . The Seller is not a “foreign person” within the meaning of Section 1445(f) or Section 1446(f) of the Code.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a) All representations and warranties of the Seller contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b) Following the Closing, the Seller shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of his representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto.

 

3.2 General Indemnification .

 

(a) From and after the Closing Date, the Seller shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the REIT and the REIT’s respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party ” and collectively, the “ Indemnified Parties”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of the Seller contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto. In each case, the Seller shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties), and any necessary local counsel.

 

(b) The Seller shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting from an unrelated third-party claim relating to the Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to Closing.

 

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(c) With respect to any claim of an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the REIT agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from the Seller until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the REIT may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by either the Seller for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse the Seller in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by the Seller to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by the Seller with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by the Seller for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

3.3 Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to the Seller, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to the Seller will not relieve the Seller from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of the Seller by reason of the inability or failure of the Seller (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to the Seller, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit the Seller, at such Seller’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by the Seller and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that the Seller shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by the Seller. If the Seller shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of the Seller and at such Seller’s sole cost and expense.

 

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3.4 Limitations on Indemnification under Section 3.2(a) .

 

(a) The Seller shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Party under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration and then only to the extent of such excess. The Seller’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

(b) Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of the Seller and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Party shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, the Seller shall not be liable to the Indemnified Party for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Party.

 

(c) The limitations in this Section 3.4 shall not apply to any obligations of the Seller with respect to Prorations under this Agreement.

 

3.5 Limitation Period .

 

(a) Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b) If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between the Seller and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by the Seller in cash.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

4.1 Covenants of the Seller .

 

(a) Satisfaction of Conditions . The Seller hereby covenants that the Seller shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the REIT’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the REIT shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the REIT in writing.

 

(b) Consent to Transfers . The Seller hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to the Seller under the Governing Agreements or otherwise with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Property Entity or Property or any other company or property being sold or transferred to the REIT by the Seller.

 

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(c) No Disposition or Encumbrance of Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall not without the prior written consent of the REIT: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Interests or any interest in any Property; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner any of the Interests or any Property.

 

(d) Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall, to the extent within his control, cause each Property Entity to conduct its business in the ordinary course consistent with past practice, and shall, to the extent within the Seller’s control, not permit any Property Entity or Property without the prior written consent of the REIT and the REIT, to: (i) enter into any material transaction not in the ordinary course of business; (ii) mortgage, pledge or encumber the Interests, any assets of the Property Entity or any Property, (iii) cause or permit any change to the existing use of any Property; (iv) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (v) file an entity classification election pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 301.7701-3(c) on Internal Revenue Service Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) to treat the Property Entity as an association taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes; (vi) make or change any other tax elections; (vii) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (viii) change any annual tax accounting period; (ix) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (x) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return ”); (xi) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (xii) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xiii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiv) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

4.2 Tax Matters .

 

(a) Tax Returns .

 

(1) Pre-Closing Tax Periods . The Seller shall cause each Property Entity to prepare and timely file all Tax Returns (other than amended Tax Returns) of each such Property Entity for any Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the Seller shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such Pre-Closing Tax Periods. Such Tax Returns shall be prepared in a manner consistent with past practice, except as otherwise required by law, and on such Tax Returns, no position shall be taken, election made or method adopted that is inconsistent with positions taken, elections made or methods used in preparing and filing similar Tax Returns in prior periods (including positions, elections or methods that would have the effect of deferring income to periods ending after the Closing Date or accelerating deductions to periods ending on or before the Closing Date). For the avoidance of doubt, the REIT or its assignee will have authority to sign any Tax Returns relating to the Property Entities that are filed after the Closing Date.

 

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(2) Straddle Periods and Post-Closing Periods . The REIT or its assignee shall prepare and timely file all Tax Returns of the Property Entities for all taxable periods other than the Pre-Closing Tax Periods, and the REIT or is assignee shall remit or cause to be remitted any Taxes due in respect of such taxable periods. At least 45 days prior to the deadline for the filing of any Tax Return for a Straddle Period (and before the REIT or its assignee files such Tax Return), the REIT or its assignee shall furnish to the Seller a draft of such Tax Return and the Seller shall have the right to review, provide written comments on, and approve the portion of such draft Tax Return that relates to Taxes allocable to the portion of the Straddle Period for which the Seller is responsible.

 

(b) Tax Matters . The Seller shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the REIT or its assignee for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences including all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

(1) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation under Section 2.2 or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2 ;

 

(2) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Pre-Closing Tax Period: (i) all such Taxes of the Property Entities; (ii) all such Taxes of any other Person that the Property Entities are liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred in such Pre-Closing Tax Period; and (iii) all Taxes resulting from a Property Entity being a member of, or leaving, during a Pre-Closing Tax Period, an affiliated group of corporations that files a consolidated, combined or unitary Tax Return for federal, state, local or foreign Tax purposes; and

 

(3) with respect to such Taxes attributable to any Straddle Period: (i) the Taxes of a Property Entity attributable to the portion of such Straddle Period that ends on the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) ; and (ii) the Taxes of any other Person that a Property Entity is liable for as a result of transferee liability, successor liability, or a contractual obligation, in each case, that is attributable to, or arose as a result of actions or breaches, incurred on or before the Closing Date, as determined under Section 4.2(c) .

 

For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Sellers under this Section 4.2 shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Article III .

 

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(c) Allocation of Taxes . For purposes of determining the amount of Taxes that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods and Straddle Periods for purposes of any obligation to indemnify for Taxes under Section 4.2(b) the parties agree to use the following conventions:

 

(1) Taxes in the form of interest, penalties, additions to tax or other additional amounts that are actually incurred, accrued, assessed or similarly charged on or after the Closing Date but that relate to Taxes that accrued on or before the Closing Date shall be treated as occurring prior to the Closing Date;

 

(2) Except for Taxes for which the REIT is responsible hereunder and for real estate taxes (apportioned pursuant to Section 1.5), for all Taxes that are payable with respect to any Straddle Period, the portion of such Tax that is attributable to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date shall be allocated between the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the portion of the period beginning after the Closing Date using the following conventions:

 

i. in the case of such Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, net or gross income, Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any sale, receipt, use, transfer or assignments of property or other asset, or Taxes resulting from, or imposed on, any payment or accrual of any amounts (including, without limitation, dividends, interest, or wages), the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall be the amount of Tax that would be payable for such portion of the Straddle Period if such Person filed a separate Tax Return with respect to such Taxes or Taxes solely for the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date using a “closing of the books” methodology for allocating items of such Tax Return; and

 

ii. in the case of all other such Taxes, the amount allocated to the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date shall equal to the amount of Taxes for the entire Straddle Period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of calendar days in the portion of the period ending on the Closing Date and the denominator of which is the number of calendar days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

For purposes of clause (i), any item determined on an annual or periodic basis (including amortization and depreciation deductions and the effects of graduated rates) shall be allocated to the portion of the Straddle Period ending on the Closing Date based on the relative number of days in such portion of the Straddle Period as compared to the number of days in the entire Straddle Period.

 

(d) Survival . The obligations of the Seller to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that the Seller’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, the Seller’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such the Seller’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of the Seller under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

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(e) The Seller and the REIT shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Interests, the Property Entities or the Properties as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The REIT shall promptly notify the Seller upon receipt by the REIT or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to the income, properties or operations of any of the Property Entities or with respect to any Property and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the REIT or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of the Seller with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. The Seller shall promptly notify the REIT in writing upon receipt by the Seller, or any of the Seller’s affiliates, of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments relating to the income, properties or operations of any of the Property Entities or with respect to any Property. The REIT and the Seller may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that the Seller shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Seller has acknowledged liability for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the REIT shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the REIT nor the Seller may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. The Seller and the REIT shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Sold Entities and the Properties, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

4.3 Relationship to Property Entities . The parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that, from and after the Closing (as defined herein), the Seller shall no longer be a member, partner, stockholder or equity owner, or, if applicable, managing member or general partner, of any Property Entity and shall have no rights or benefits under any Governing Agreement.

 

ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1 Conditions to the REIT’s Obligations . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the REIT’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the REIT’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

(a) IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

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(b) Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

(c) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Seller pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the REIT, the Seller shall have delivered a certificate to the REIT to such effect in regard to the Seller’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

 

(d) Performance . The Seller shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 6.2 hereof.

 

(e) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

(f) Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents, if any, of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, members or stockholders of any Property Entity, if any, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

 

(g) Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(h) No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to any of the Property Entities, the Interests or any Property or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Property Entity or any Property.

 

(i) Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The REIT shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the REIT and its counsel.

 

5.2 Conditions to the Seller’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Seller’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

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(a) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the REIT pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b) Performance . The REIT shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

(c) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1 Closing . The consummation and closing (the “ Closing ”) of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the REIT may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to Closing set forth herein (the “ Closing Date ”),or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2 Seller’s Deliveries . At the Closing, the Seller shall deliver the following to the REIT in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the REIT by Sellers:

 

(a) Assignment of Interests in each Property Entity . An Assignment, in substantially the form of Exhibit B attached hereto with respect to the Interests.

 

(b) Certificate . A certificate from the Seller certifying to the REIT the accuracy of the representations and warranties made by the Seller hereunder.

 

(c) FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from the Seller certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Internal Revenue Code that the Seller is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

 

(d) [Reserved]

 

(e) Property Documents . Copies of all existing title policies/commitments, surveys, plans and specifications, permits and approvals and other similar documents which pertain to each Property which may be in the Seller's possession or under its control.

 

(f) Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the REIT or required hereby.

 

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6.3 Default Remedies . If the Seller defaults in performing any of the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement, the REIT shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from the Seller’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and the Seller’s obligation to convey the Interests to the REIT hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Notices . Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice, demand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

REIT :

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 E. Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Attention: James V. Davidson

Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Seller :

 

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

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7.2 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitute the entire agreement and supersede each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any Person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

7.4 Governing Law .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

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7.5 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

7.6 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7 Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

7.9 Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder are for the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

7.10 Trial by Jury . The parties to this Agreement hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  SELLER :
   
  IDJ HOLDINGS, LLC
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Member
     
  REIT :
   
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

[Signature Page to the IDG Holdings, LLC Purchase and Sale Agreement]

 

 

 

 

Exhibit A-1(A)

 

Property Entities

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Indirect Property

 

Seller Seller’s
Percentage
Interest/Sold
Entity
Indirect Property Mortgage
Indebtedness
IDJ Holdings, 50% interest in      Fabius, NY  
LLC A&J Assets LLC ●      Pompey, NY  
    ●      Mount Vernon, IL  
    ●      Deltaville, VA  
    ●      Memphis, TN  
    ●      Memphis, TN  

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

Exhibit A-1(B)

 

Property Entities,

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property [Acquired after 1/1/2018]

 

Seller Seller’s
Percentage
Interest/Sold
Entity
Indirect Property Mortgage Indebtedness
IDJ Holdings,
LLC
50% interest in
A&J Assets
LLC

●     El Paso, TX

●     El Paso, TX

●     Stinnett, TX

 

 

 

 

Exhibit B

 

Assignment

 

The undersigned (“Assignor”), for good and valuable consideration paid to the Assignor by Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (“Assignee”), pursuant to the Agreement of Purchase and Sale dated as of __________, 2019, by and between Assignor and Assignee (the “ Agreement”), and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby sell, assign, transfer, convey and deliver to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, good and indefeasible right, title and interest to the limited liability company interests described on Schedule A-1 hereto, including, without limitation, all right, title and interest, if any, of the undersigned in and to the assets of each such limited liability company and the right to receive distributions of money, profits and other assets from each such partnership, presently existing or hereafter at any time arising or accruing, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto.

 

The undersigned, for itself, its successors and assigns, hereby covenants and agrees that, at any time and from time to time after the date hereof, upon the written request of Assignee, the undersigned will, without further consideration, do, execute, acknowledge, and deliver or cause to be done, executed, acknowledged and delivered, each of and all of such further acts, deeds, assignments, transfers, conveyances and assurances as may reasonably be required by Assignee in order to assign, transfer, set over, convey, assure and confirm unto and vest in Assignee, its successors and assigns, title to the interests described in Schedule A-1 hereto

 

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Assignment to be signed by a duly authorized officer this __ day of ___________, 201__.

 

  ________, a
  _________ _______________
     
  By:  
    Name:
    Title:

 

  

Exhibit B

 

Exhibit 10.13

 

AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE

  

This AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE AND SALE (this “ Agreement ”) is made as of May 14, 2019 by and between Asset 90047 LLC (the “ Seller ”) and Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , the Seller is the record and beneficial owner of undivided real property interests (the “ Interests ”) in the real properties (the “ Properties ”) described on Exhibit A-1 hereto.

 

WHEREAS, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are related to the proposed initial underwritten public offering of shares of Class A common stock of the REIT (the “ IPO ”); and

 

WHEREAS, the Seller desires to sell, assign and convey the Interests to the REIT, and the REIT desires to acquire the Interests from the Seller, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing, and the representations, warranties and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

THE PURCHASE

 

1.1 Sale of Interests . The Seller hereby irrevocably agrees to sell, transfer and assign to the REIT at Closing (as defined herein) all of his right, title and interests in the Interests, together with any other interests the Seller may have in any of the Properties and the REIT agrees to purchase the Interests from Seller on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. The Seller shall transfer the Interests to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims, and any other matters affecting title thereto, other than Permitted Liens.

 

1.2 Consideration . The total consideration for which the Seller agrees to sell, transfer and assign the Interests to the REIT, and which the REIT agrees to pay to the Seller, subject to the terms of this Agreement, at Closing (as defined herein) shall be calculated as follows:

 

The consideration for the Interests on Exhibit A-1 shall be $670,741 (the“ Consideration ”). The Consideration shall be adjusted to give effect to Prorations, if any, for the Properties.

 

1.3 No Further Interest . The Seller acknowledges and agrees that effective upon the Closing, and without any further action by the Seller, the Interests shall be transferred, assigned and conveyed to the REIT and the Seller shall have no further right, title or interest in any of the Properties.

 

 

 

 

1.4 Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

 

“Adverse Consequences” means all liabilities, demands, claims, actions, causes of action, costs, expenses, damages (including incidental, special, but excluding consequential and punitive damages and lost profits), Taxes, losses, penalties, fines, judgments or amounts paid in settlement, including reasonable attorneys’ and accountants’ fees, including, without limitation, all Adverse Consequences incurred by the REIT. The term Adverse Consequences expressly includes any consequences arising from the REIT’s sending, or failure to send, any filings relating to transfer taxes due, or otherwise, in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including any interest, penalties or reassessment of the value of any Interest for purposes of ad valorem taxes, and the REIT’s failure to pay any transfer taxes due in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

“IPO Price” means the public offering price per share of the REIT’s Class A common stock set forth on the front cover of the final prospectus for the IPO (the“ Prospectus ”), to be filed by the REIT with the SEC.

 

“Permitted Liens” means such of the following: (a) liens for taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies not yet due and payable or, if due and payable, not yet delinquent; (b) pledges or deposits to secure obligations under workers’ compensation or unemployment laws or similar legislation or to secure public or statutory obligations; (c) easements, zoning restrictions, rights of way and other encumbrances on title to real property that do not render title to the property encumbered thereby unmarketable or materially adversely affect the use or value of such property for its present purposes; (d) tenancy leases; and (e) deposits to secure trade contracts (other than for debt), statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds, performance bonds and other obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business.

 

“Post-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period that begins after the Closing Date.

 

“Pre-Closing Tax Period” means any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending on or before the end of the Closing Date.

 

“Prorations” means those proration and adjustment amounts that are customarily applied to closings of commercial real estate transactions in the county in which the Property is located, which amounts shall be calculated as of midnight (Eastern time) of the day immediately preceding the Closing Date and shall include:

 

(a) Taxes . All real estate and personal property taxes and special assessments, if any, with respect to each Property shall be prorated at Closing;

 

(b) Rents . All rents, including, without limitation, base rents, operating expense payments or common area maintenance charges and all other forms of additional rents, payable under the leases for the Properties and all other income from the Properties shall be prorated at Closing; and

 

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(c) Other Items . Any other items of revenue, operating expenses or other items which are customarily prorated between a transferor and transferee of real estate in the county in which the Property is located shall be prorated at Closing.

 

“Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement” means the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement dated May 14, 2019 by and among the REIT, the Operating Partnership and Andrew Spodek.

 

“Seller’s Percentage Interest” means, with respect to each Property, the percentage set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto under the heading “Seller’s Percentage Interest”, which reflects the Seller’s percentage ownership interest in each Property.

 

Tax ” means all federal, state, local and foreign income, withholding, gross receipts, license, property, sales, franchise, employment, payroll, goods and services, stamp, environmental, customs duties, capital stock, social security, transfer, alternative minimum, excise and other taxes, tariffs or governmental charges of any nature whatsoever, including estimated taxes, together with penalties, interest or additions to Tax with respect thereto, whether or not disputed.

 

ARTICLE II

 

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Representations by the REIT . The REIT hereby represents and warrants to the Seller that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct and complete as of the Closing Date (as defined herein):

 

(a) Organization and Power . The REIT is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Maryland, and has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

(b) The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the REIT of its obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all requisite action of the REIT and require no further action or approval of the REIT’s shareholders or of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the REIT.

 

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2.2 Representations by the Seller . The Seller hereby represents and warrants to the REIT that the following statements are true, correct, and complete as of the date of this Agreement and will be true, correct, and complete as of the Closing Date:

 

(a) Organization and Power; Due Authorization . The Seller has full right, power, and authority to enter into this Agreement and to assume and perform all of its obligations under this Agreement; and the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance by the Seller of his obligations hereunder and require no further action or approval of any other individuals or entities in order for this Agreement to constitute a binding and enforceable obligation of the Seller. This Agreement and each agreement, document and instrument executed and delivered by or on behalf of the Seller pursuant to this Agreement constitutes, or when executed and delivered, constitute, will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller, each enforceable against the Seller in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy or the application of equitable principles.

 

(b) Noncontravention . Neither the entry into nor the performance of, or compliance with, this Agreement by the Seller has resulted, or will result, in any violation of, or default under, or result in the acceleration of, any obligation under any charter, bylaws, limited liability company agreement, partnership agreement, declaration of trust, mortgage indenture, lien agreement, note, contract, agreement, permit, judgment, decree, order, restrictive covenant, statute, rule, or regulation applicable to the Seller or to any Property or Interests.

 

(c) Litigation . There is no action, suit, or proceeding, pending or known to be threatened, against or affecting the Seller in any court or before any arbitrator or before any federal, state, municipal, or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or instrumentality which (1) in any manner raises any question affecting the validity or enforceability of this Agreement, (2) could materially and adversely affect the business, financial position, or results of operations of the Seller or any Interests or Property, (3) could adversely affect the ability of the Seller to perform his obligations hereunder, or under any document to be delivered pursuant hereto, (4) could create a lien on the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein, or (5) could adversely affect the any of the Interests or any Property, any part thereof, or any interest therein.

 

(d) Good Title . Exhibit A-1 accurately sets forth the Seller’s ownership interest in each Direct Property. The Seller is the sole record and beneficial owner of the Interests as set forth on Exhibit A-1 and has full power and authority to convey the Interests pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. No person has any community property rights, by virtue of marriage or otherwise, with respect to the Interests. The Seller has good and marketable title to the Interests. The Interests are free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, leaseholds by any party other than the current lessee, claims or any other matters affecting title thereto and at the Closing will be sold to the REIT free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, pledges, voting agreements, prior assignments or conveyances, conditions, restrictions, claims or other matters affecting title thereto, in each case other than Permitted Liens. No other person or entity has an option to purchase or a right of first refusal to purchase any of the Interests nor are there any agreements or understandings with respect to the voting, ownership or disposition of the Interests that could adversely affect the Seller’s ability to perform his obligations hereunder or the REIT’s ownership of the Interests following the Closing. There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Interests that will be in effect as of the Closing.

 

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(e) Indebtedness . There is no indebtdness with respect to any property, other than as set forth on Exhibit A-1 hereto.

 

(f) No Consents . Each consent, approval, authorization, order, license, certificate, permit, registration, designation, or filing by or with any governmental agency or body necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby by the Seller has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date. Each consent or approval required under any contract or agreement relating to indebtedness or otherwise, necessary for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the acquisition and transfer of the Interests has been obtained or will be obtained on or before the Closing Date.

 

(g) Actions Prior to Closing . From the date hereof until the Closing Date, the Seller shall not take any action or fail to take any action the result of which would (1) have a material adverse effect on the Interests or the REIT’s ownership thereof, or any material adverse effect on the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results or operation of any Property after the Closing Date or (2) cause any of the representations and warranties contained in this Section 2.2 to be untrue as of the Closing Date.

 

(h) [Reserved]

 

(i) Tax Treatment . The Seller represents and warrants that it has obtained from its own counsel advice regarding the tax consequences of the transfer of the Interests to the REIT pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. The REIT has not made any representation to the Seller regarding the tax treatment of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and further represents and warrants that it has not relied on the REIT or the REIT’s representatives or counsel for any tax advice.

 

(j) Bankruptcy with respect to the Seller . No Act of Bankruptcy has occurred with respect to the Seller. As used herein,“ Act of Bankruptcy ” means if the Seller (A) applies for or consents to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator, of himself or of all or a substantial part of his property, (B) admits in writing his inability to pay his debts as they become due, (C) makes a general assignment for the benefit of his creditors, (D) files a voluntary petition or commences a voluntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), (E) is adjudicated bankrupt or insolvent, (F) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, (G) fails to controvert in a timely and appropriate manner, or acquiesce in writing to, any petition filed against him in an involuntary case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code (as now or hereafter in effect), or (H) take any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.

 

(k) Brokerage Commission . The Seller has not engaged the services of any real estate agent, broker, finder or any other person or entity for any brokerage or finder’s fee, commission or other amount with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

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(l) Foreign Persons . The Seller is not a “foreign person” within the meaning of Section 1445(f) or Section 1446(f) of the Code.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties; Remedy for Breach .

 

(a) All representations and warranties of the Seller contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered pursuant to this Agreement shall survive the Closing.

 

(b) Following the Closing, the Seller shall be liable under this Agreement for monetary damages (or otherwise) for breach of any of his representations, warranties, covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto.

 

3.2 General Indemnification .

 

(a) From and after the Closing Date, the Seller shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the REIT and the REIT’s respective officers, directors, employees, stockholders, partners, agents and affiliates (each of which is an “ Indemnified Party ” and collectively, the “ Indemnified Parties ”), from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, liabilities and expenses, including, without limitation, interest, penalties, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds (collectively, “ Losses ”) asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Party, to the extent resulting from any breach of a representation, warranty or covenant of the Seller contained in this Agreement, or in any Schedule, Exhibit, certificate or affidavit delivered by the Seller pursuant thereto. In each case, the Seller shall only bear the fees, costs or expenses in connection with the employment of one counsel (regardless of the number of Indemnified Parties), and any necessary local counsel.

 

(b) The Seller shall also indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all Losses asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties to the extent resulting from an unrelated third-party claim relating to the Interests arising from matters that occurred prior to Closing.

 

(c) With respect to any claim of an Indemnified Party pursuant to this Section 3.2, to the extent available, the REIT agrees to use diligent good faith efforts to pursue and collect any and all available proceeds and benefits of any right to defense under any insurance policy that covers the matter which is the subject of the indemnification prior to seeking indemnification from the Seller until all proceeds and benefits, if any, to which the Indemnified Party is entitled pursuant to such insurance policy have been exhausted; provided, however, that the REIT may make a claim under this Section 3.2 even if an insurance coverage dispute is pending, in which case, if the Indemnified Party later receives insurance proceeds with respect to any Losses paid by either the Seller for the benefit of any Indemnified Party, then the Indemnified Party shall reimburse the Seller in an amount equivalent to such proceeds in excess of any deductible amount pursuant to Section 3.2(a) hereof up to the amount actually paid (or deemed paid) by the Seller to the Indemnified Party in connection with such indemnification (it being understood that all costs and expenses incurred by the Seller with respect to insurance coverage disputes shall constitute Losses paid by the Seller for purposes of Section 3.2(a) hereof).

 

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3.3 Notice and Defense of Claims . As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by the Indemnified Party of notice of any liability or claim incurred by or asserted against the Indemnified Party that is subject to indemnification under this Article III, the Indemnified Party shall give notice thereof to the Seller, including liabilities or claims to be applied against the indemnification deductible established pursuant to Section 3.4 hereof; provided that failure to give notice to the Seller will not relieve the Seller from any liability that it may have to any Indemnified Party, unless, and only to the extent that, such failure (a) shall have caused prejudice to the defense of such claim or (b) shall have materially increased the costs or potential liability of the Seller by reason of the inability or failure of the Seller (due to such lack of prompt notice) to be involved in any investigations or negotiations regarding any such claim. Such notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to such Indemnified Party giving rise to such claim, and the amount or good faith estimate of the amount of Losses arising therefrom. Unless prohibited by law, such Indemnified Party shall deliver to the Seller, promptly after such Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents received by such Indemnified Party relating to such claim. The Indemnified Party shall permit the Seller, at such Seller’s option and expense, to assume the defense of any such claim by counsel selected by the Seller and reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party, and to settle or otherwise dispose of the same; provided, however, that the Indemnified Party may at all times participate in such defense at its sole expense; and provided further, however, that the Seller shall not, in defense of any such claim, except with the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party in its sole and absolute discretion, consent to the entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement that does not include as an unconditional term thereof the giving by the claimant or plaintiff in question to all Indemnified Parties a full and complete release of all liabilities in respect of such claims, or that does not result only in the payment of money damages which are paid (or deemed paid) in full by the Seller. If the Seller shall not have undertaken such defense within 20 days after such notice, or within such shorter time as may be reasonable under the circumstances to the extent required by applicable law, then the Indemnified Party shall have the right to undertake the defense, compromise or settlement of such liability or claim on behalf of and for the account of the Seller and at such Seller’s sole cost and expense.

 

3.4 Limitations on Indemnification under Section 3.2(a) .

 

(a) The Seller shall not be liable under Section 3.2(a) hereof unless and until the total amount recoverable by the Indemnified Party under Section 3.2(a) exceeds one percent (1%) of the value of the aggregate Consideration and then only to the extent of such excess. The Seller’s total liability for indemnification shall not exceed the Consideration.

 

(b) Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, before taking recourse against any assets of the Seller and subject to the limitations set forth in the following sentence, the Indemnified Party shall look, first to available insurance proceeds (including without limitation any title insurance proceeds, if applicable) in accordance with Section 3.2(c) above, and then to indemnification under this Article III. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, except in the case of fraud or in the event of Losses relating to a third-party claim, the Seller shall not be liable to the Indemnified Party for any indirect, special or consequential damages, loss of profits, taxes relating to tax years beginning on or after the Closing, loss of value or other similar speculative damages asserted or claimed by the Indemnified Party.

 

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(c) The limitations in this Section 3.4 shall not apply to any obligations of the Seller with respect to Prorations under this Agreement.

 

3.5 Limitation Period .

 

(a) Any claim for indemnification under Section 3.2 hereof must be asserted in writing by the Indemnified Party, stating the nature of the Losses and the basis for indemnification therefor on or prior to the fifth anniversary of the Closing.

 

(b) If asserted in writing on or prior to the date specified in Section 3.5(a) hereof for the applicable claim, any claims for indemnification pursuant to Section 3.2 hereof shall survive until resolved by mutual agreement between the Seller and the Indemnified Party or by arbitration or court proceeding.

 

3.6 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Indemnity payments may be made by the Seller in cash.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

COVENANTS

 

4.1 Covenants of the Seller .

 

(a) Satisfaction of Conditions . The Seller hereby covenants that the Seller shall: (A) use commercially reasonable efforts and diligence in order to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and (B) cooperate and assist in the REIT’s efforts to satisfy all of the conditions to Closing set forth herein, and agrees that the REIT shall not have any obligation to consummate the Closing hereunder unless and until such conditions have been satisfied or waived by the REIT in writing.

 

(b) Consent to Transfers . The Seller hereby consents to the transfer of, and waives any rights of first refusal, right of first offer, buy-sell agreements, put, option or similar parallel or dissenter rights or similar rights afforded to the Seller under the Governing Agreements or otherwise with respect to any equity ownership interest in any Property or any other company or property being sold or transferred to the REIT by the Seller.

 

(c) No Disposition or Encumbrance of Interests . From the date hereof through the Closing, except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall not without the prior written consent of the REIT: (i) sell, transfer (or agree to sell or transfer) or otherwise dispose of, or cause the sale, transfer or disposition of (or agree to do any of the foregoing) all or any portion of the Interests or any interest in any Property; or (ii) mortgage, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber in any manner any of the Interests or any Property.

 

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(d) Ordinary Course of Business . From the date hereof through the Closing, and except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, the Seller shall, to the extent within his control, not permit any Property without the prior written consent of the REIT and the REIT, to: (i) enter into any material transaction not in the ordinary course of business; (ii) mortgage, pledge or encumber any assets of any Property, (iii) cause or permit any change to the existing use of any Property; (iv) cause or take any action that would render any of the representations or warranties set forth herein untrue; (iv) make or change any other tax elections; (vi) settle or compromise any claim, notice, audit report or assessment in respect of taxes; (vii) change any annual tax accounting period; (viii) adopt or change any method of tax accounting; (ix) file any amended return, report or form (including an election, declaration, amendment, schedule, information return or attachment thereto) required to be filed with a governmental authority with respect to taxes (each, a “ Tax Return ”); (x) enter into any tax allocation agreement, tax sharing agreement, tax indemnity agreement or closing agreement relating to any tax; (xi) surrender any right to claim a tax refund; (xii) consent to any extension or waiver of the statute of limitations period applicable to any tax claim or assessment; or (xiii) make any distribution to its partners or members, except for cash distributions in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practices or as permitted by this Agreement.

 

4.2 Tax Matters .

 

(a) Tax Matters . The Seller shall pay and indemnify, without duplication, the REIT or its assignee for the following Taxes (and all related Adverse Consequences including all out-of-pocket expenses incurred in defending an audit or other claim relating to such Taxes):

 

(1) all Taxes incurred and unpaid by of Seller (including all income Taxes of Seller) with respect to the Interests and that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods; and

 

(2) all such Taxes resulting from a breach of any representation under Section 2.2(l) or a breach of any provision of this Section 4.2 ;

 

For the avoidance of doubt, the indemnification obligations of the Sellers under this Section 4.2 shall not be subject to the amount limitations set forth in Article III .

 

(b) Allocation of Taxes . For purposes of determining the amount of Taxes that relate to Pre-Closing Tax Periods for purposes of any obligation to indemnify for Taxes under Section 4.2(a) the parties agree to use the following convention:

 

(1) Taxes in the form of interest, penalties, additions to tax or other additional amounts that are actually incurred, accrued, assessed or similarly charged on or after the Closing Date but that relate to Taxes that accrued on or before the Closing Date shall be treated as occurring prior to the Closing Date.

 

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(c) Survival . The obligations of the Seller to pay or indemnify for a Tax under this Section 4.2 shall expire upon the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations (after taking into account any waiver, extension, tolling, or mitigation thereof) of the underlying Tax; provided, however, to the extent that the Seller’s obligation to pay a Tax arises under a contract or other agreement or arrangement, the Seller’s obligations under this Section 4.2 shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the expiration of such the Seller’s obligation to pay such Tax under the contract or other agreement or arrangement. All other obligations of the Seller under this Section 4.2 shall survive until fully performed.

 

(d) The Seller and the REIT shall provide each other with such cooperation and information relating to any of the Interests or the Properties as the parties reasonably may request in (i) filing any Tax Return, amended Tax Return or claim for tax refund, (ii) determining any liability for taxes or a right to a tax refund, (iii) conducting or defending any proceeding in respect of taxes, or (iv) performing tax diligence, including with respect to the impact of this transaction on the REIT’s tax status as a REIT. Such reasonable cooperation shall include making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to provide additional information and explanation of any material provided hereunder. The REIT shall promptly notify the Seller upon receipt by the REIT or any of its affiliates of notice of (i) any pending or threatened tax audits or assessments with respect to any Property and (ii) any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments of the REIT or any of its affiliates, in each case, which may affect the liabilities for taxes of the Seller with respect to any tax period ending before or as a result of the Closing. The Seller shall promptly notify the REIT in writing upon receipt by the Seller, or any of the Seller’s affiliates, of notice of any pending or threatened federal, state, local or foreign tax audits or assessments with respect to any Property. The REIT and the Seller may participate at its own expense in the prosecution of any claim or audit with respect to taxes attributable to any taxable period ending on or before the Closing Date; provided, that the Seller shall have the right to control the conduct of any such audit or proceeding or portion thereof for which such Seller has acknowledged liability for the payment of any additional tax liability, and the REIT shall have the right to control any other audits and proceedings. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the REIT nor the Seller may settle or otherwise resolve any such claim, suit or proceeding which could have an adverse tax effect on the other party or its affiliates without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld. The Seller and the REIT shall retain all Tax Returns, schedules and work papers with respect to the Properties, and all material records and other documents relating thereto, until the expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by any party, any extensions thereof) of the taxable years to which such Tax Returns and other documents relate and until the final determination of any tax in respect of such years.

 

ARTICLE V

 

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CLOSING

 

5.1 Conditions to the REIT’s Obligations . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the REIT’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.1, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the REIT’s obligations under this Agreement.

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(a) IPO . The IPO, in such form and substance as the REIT, in its sole and absolute discretion, shall have determined to be acceptable, shall have been completed (or be completed simultaneously with the Closing).

 

(b) Formation Transactions . The formation transactions described in the Prospectus shall have occurred or be scheduled to occur contemporaneously with the Closing hereunder.

 

(c) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the Seller pursuant to this Agreement, as well as those contained in the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement, shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing and, if requested by the REIT, the Seller shall have delivered a certificate to the REIT to such effect in regard to the Seller’s representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement.

 

(d) Performance . The Seller shall have performed and complied with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing, including having delivered each of the items set forth in Section 6.2 hereof.

 

(e) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that restrains, prohibits or otherwise invalidates the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

(f) Consents and Approvals . All necessary approvals and consents, if any, of governmental and private parties, including, without limitation, all ground lessors, tenants, other parties to service contracts, lenders and ratings agencies, partners, to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, shall have been obtained.

 

(g) Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement . Each of the parties thereto shall have entered into the Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement.

 

(h) No Material Adverse Change . There shall have not occurred between the date hereof and the Closing Date any material adverse change with respect to the Interests or any Property or any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of any Property.

 

(i) Tenant and Lender Estoppels . The REIT shall have received tenant and lender estoppels in form and substance satisfactory to the REIT and its counsel.

 

5.2 Conditions to the Seller’s Obligation . In addition to any other conditions set forth in this Agreement, the Seller’s obligation to consummate the Closing is subject to the timely satisfaction of each and every one of the conditions and requirements set forth in this Section 5.2, all of which shall be conditions precedent to the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement.

 

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(a) Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties made by the REIT pursuant to this Agreement shall be true and correct as of the Closing as though such representations and warranties were made at the Closing.

 

(b) Performance . The REIT shall have performed and complied in all material respects with all agreements and covenants that it is required to perform or comply with pursuant to this Agreement prior to the Closing.

 

(c) Legal Proceedings . No order, statute, rule, regulation, executive order, injunction, stay, decree, or restraining order shall have been enacted, entered, promulgated or enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction or governmental entity that prohibits the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and no litigation or governmental proceeding seeking such an order shall be pending or threatened.

 

ARTICLE VI

 

CLOSING AND CLOSING DOCUMENTS

 

6.1 Closing . The consummation and closing (the“ Closing ”) of the transactions contemplated pursuant to this Agreement shall take place at the offices of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in New York, New York, or such other place as the REIT may designate, promptly following satisfaction of the conditions to Closing set forth herein (the“ Closing Date ”),or as otherwise set by agreement of the parties.

 

6.2 Seller’s Deliveries . At the Closing, the Seller shall deliver the following to the REIT in addition to all other items required to be delivered to the REIT by Sellers:

 

(a) [Reserved]

 

(b) Certificate . A certificate from the Seller certifying to the REIT the accuracy of the representations and warranties made by the Seller hereunder.

 

(c) FIRPTA Certificate . An affidavit from the Seller certifying pursuant to Section 1445 and Section 1446(f) of the Internal Revenue Code that the Seller is not a foreign corporation, foreign partnership, foreign trust, foreign estate or foreign person (as those terms are defined in the Code and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder).

 

(d) Deed . A special or limited warranty deed (or its local equivalent), executed by the Seller conveying all of the Seller’s right, title and interest to each Property to the REIT.

 

(e) Property Documents . Copies of all existing title policies/commitments, surveys, plans and specifications, permits and approvals and other similar documents which pertain to each Property which may be in the Seller's possession or under its control.

 

(f) Other Documents . Any other document or instrument reasonably requested by the REIT or required hereby.

 

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6.3 Default Remedies . If the Seller defaults in performing any of the Seller’s obligations under this Agreement, the REIT shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law or in equity resulting from the Seller’s default, including without limitation, the right to seek specific performance of this Agreement and the Seller’s obligation to convey the Interests to the REIT hereunder. The parties acknowledge and agree that the failure of a condition precedent to occur, notwithstanding the good faith and commercially reasonable efforts of the applicable party, shall not be a default hereunder.

 

ARTICLE VII

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Notices . Any notice provided for by this Agreement and any other notice, demand, or communication required hereunder shall be in writing and either delivered in person (including by confirmed facsimile transmission) or sent by hand delivered against receipt or sent by recognized overnight delivery service or by certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, with return receipt requested. All notices shall be addressed as follows:

 

REIT :

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

with a copy to (which shall not constitute notice):

 

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Riverfront Plaza, East Tower

951 E. Byrd Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

Attention: James V. Davidson

Fax No.: 804-787-8035

 

Seller :

 

Rosalind Spodek

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

Any address or name specified above may be changed by a notice given by the addressee to the other party. Any notice, demand or other communication shall be deemed given and effective as of the date of delivery in person or set forth on the return receipt. The inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given, or rejection or other refusal to accept any notice, demand or other communication, shall be deemed to be receipt of the notice, demand or other communication as of the date of such attempt to deliver or rejection or refusal to accept.

 

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7.2 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, without limitation, the exhibits hereto, constitute the entire agreement and supersede each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any Person other than the parties hereto.

 

7.3 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto.

 

7.4 Governing Law .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

7.5 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely upon the facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of any other party as if such signature were an original signature.

 

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7.6 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

7.7 Incorporation . All Exhibits attached hereto and referred to herein are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

 

7.8 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

7.9 Waiver of Conditions . The conditions to each party’s obligations hereunder are for the sole benefit of such party and may be waived by such party in whole or in part to the extent permitted by applicable law.

 

7.10 Trial by Jury . The parties to this Agreement hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been entered into effective as of the date first written above.

 

  SELLER :
   
  ASSET 90047 LLC
     
  By: /s/ Rosalind Spodek
    Name: Rosalind Spodek
    Title: Member
     
  REIT :
   
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Chief Executive Officer

 

[Signature Page to the Asset 90047 LLC Purchase and Sale Agreement]

 

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Exhibit A-1

 

Direct Properties

Seller’s Percentage Interest and Property

 

Seller Seller’s
Percentage
Interest
Property Mortgage Indebtedness
Asset 90047, 50% ●      Princess Anne, MD  
LLC 66 2/3%       Elizabeth, PA  

 

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

Exhibit 10.14

 

REPRESENTATION, WARRANTY AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT

 

This REPRESENTATION, WARRANTY AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made and entered into as of May 14, 2019, and is effective as of the Closing Date (as defined herein), by and among Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”), Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership and subsidiary of the REIT (the “ Operating Partnership ”, and together with the REIT, the “ Acquirer ”), and Andrew Spodek (the “ Principal ”). Certain capitalized terms used herein are defined in Section 4.2 hereof.

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , the Principal owns, directly or indirectly, record and beneficial ownership interests in each of the entities described on Schedule I attached hereto and incorporated by this reference (the “ Tier 1 Contributed Entities ”), which Contributed Entities are the direct or indirect owners of the respective properties described on Schedule I (each, a “ Tier 1 Contributed Property ,” and collectively, the “ Tier 1 Contributed Properties ”);

 

WHEREAS , the Principal is the sole shareholder and Chief Executive Officer of Nationwide Postal Management, Inc., a New York corporation that provides property management services to each of the Tier 1 Properties and each of the respective properties described on Schedule II (each a “ Tier 2 Property ,” and together with the Tier 1 Properties, the “ Properties ”), and as such, Principal is familiar with the condition, history and operations of each of the Properties;

 

WHEREAS , the REIT intends to enter into agreements to acquire directly and, through the Operating Partnership or one or more other subsidiaries of the REIT or the Operating Partnership, ownership of the Properties through the acquisition of the Contributed Entities and through direct acquisition of certain of the Properties;

 

WHEREAS, concurrently with the execution of this Agreement, the Operating Partnership is entering into separate contribution agreements with the Principal and contribution agreements and purchase and sale agreements with the other owners of record and beneficial ownership interests of the Contributed Entities (the “ Contributed Interests ”) (the Principal and such other owners, each, a “ Contributor ” and collectively, the “ Contributors ,” and such agreements, each, a “ Contribution Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Contribution Agreements ”), pursuant to which each Contributor shall contribute to the Operating Partnership, or a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Operating Partnership, all of the Contributor’s right, title and interest in the applicable Contributed Entities, and the Operating Partnership, or such subsidiary, as applicable, shall acquire from each Contributor all of each Contributor’s right, title and interest as a holder of interests in the Contributed Entities and in certain instances shall acquire from Contributors fee simple title to Properties owned other than through Contributed Interests ;

 

WHEREAS, capitalized terms used but not elsewhere defined in this Agreement shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in Section 4.2 hereof;

 

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WHEREAS, the Formation Transactions (as defined herein) relate to the proposed underwritten initial public offering (the “ IPO ”) of shares of Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share of the REIT (the “ REIT Shares ”), following which the REIT will operate as a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust within the meaning of Section 856 of the Code;

 

WHEREAS, the Principal, through his direct and indirect ownership of the Contributed Interests, will materially benefit from the Formation Transactions; and

 

WHEREAS, in order to induce the Acquirer to enter into the Formation Transaction Documentation, the Principal has agreed to provide certain representations, warranties and indemnities as set forth herein.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing and the representations, warranties, covenants and other terms contained in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

REPRESENTATION AND WARRANTIES

 

Except as disclosed in the Prospectus or in the schedules referenced in this Article I and attached hereto, the Principal represents and warrants to the each of the REIT and the OP as follows, as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date:

 

1.1 Organization; Authority . (a) Each of the Tier 1 Contributed Entities and each Subsidiary has been duly organized and is validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of its jurisdiction of organization and has all requisite power and authority to carry out the transactions contemplated by the Formation Transaction Documentation (as defined herein), and to own, lease and/or operate each Property owned, leased and/or operated by it and to carry on its business as presently conducted. Each Tier 1 Contributed Entity and each Subsidiary, to the extent required under applicable Laws, is qualified to do business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the nature of its business or the character of its Properties make such qualification necessary, other than such failures to be so qualified as would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. The partnership agreement, limited liability company agreement, operating agreement, Articles of Incorporation, Charter or Bylaws, as applicable, of each Tier 1 Contributed Entity and each subsidiary, as may have been amended from time to time, (each a “ Governing Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Governing Agreements ”) a complete and accurate copy of which has been delivered to the Operating Partnership and its counsel, is in force and effect as of the date hereof, and has not been further modified or amended.

 

(b) Schedule 1.1(b) sets forth as of the date hereof with respect to each Tier 1 Contributed Entity (i) the owners of all the ownership interests of the Tier 1 Contributed Entity and its Subsidiaries, (ii) the ownership interest of each Tier 1 Contributed Entity in each Subsidiary, if any, and, if not wholly owned by a Tier 1 Contributed Entity, the identity and ownership interest of each of the other owners of such Subsidiary, and (iii) each Property owned by each Tier 1 Contributed Entity or its Subsidiaries. There are no rights to purchase, subscriptions, warrants, options, conversion rights or preemptive rights relating to the Contributed Interests or any equity interest in the Tier 1 Contributed Entities, or any other security convertible into or exchangeable for such equity interests.

 

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1.2 Due Authorization . Each agreement, document and instrument included in or contemplated by the Formation Transaction Documentation and executed and delivered by or on behalf of any Tier 1 Contributed Entity constitutes, or when executed and delivered will constitute, the legal, valid and binding obligation of such Tier 1 Contributed Entity, each enforceable against such Tier 1 Contributed Entity in accordance with its terms, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium or other similar Laws relating to creditors’ rights and general principles of equity.

 

1.3 Consents and Approvals . Except as shall have been obtained or satisfied on or prior to the Closing Date, no consent, waiver, approval, authorization, order, license, permit or registration of, qualification, designation, declaration or filing with, any Person or Governmental Authority or under any applicable Laws is required to be obtained by any Tier 1 Contributed Entity or Subsidiary in connection with the execution, delivery and performance of any of the agreements or documents included in or contemplated by the Formation Transaction Documentation and the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby.

 

1.4 No Violation . None of the execution, delivery or performance of any agreement or document included in or contemplated by the Formation Transaction Documentation nor the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby does or will, with or without the giving of notice, lapse of time, or both, violate, conflict with, result in a breach of, or constitute a default under or give to others any right of termination, acceleration, cancellation or other right under, (A) the Governing Agreements of any Tier 1 Contributed Entity or Subsidiary, (B) any agreement, document or instrument to which such Tier 1 Contributed Entity or Subsidiary or any of their respective assets or properties (including the Properties) is bound or (C) any term or provision of any judgment, order, writ, injunction, or decree binding on such Tier 1 Contributed Entity or any Subsidiary.

 

1.5 Capitalization . All of the issued and outstanding equity interests of each Tier 1 Contributed Entity and Subsidiary are duly authorized, validly issued and fully paid and are not subject to preemptive rights or appraisal, dissenters’ or other similar rights under the Governing Agreements of or any contract to which any Tier 1 Contributed Entity or its Subsidiaries is a party or otherwise bound.

 

1.6 Licenses and Permits . All notices, licenses, permits, certificates and authorizations required for the continued use, occupancy, management, leasing and operation of the Properties have been obtained, are in full force and effect, are in good standing and (to the extent required in connection with the transactions contemplated by the Formation Transaction Documentation) are assignable to the Operating Partnership. No Tier 1 Contributed Entity, or Subsidiary or, to the Principal’s knowledge, any Contributor or third party has taken any action that (or failed to take any action the omission of which) would result in the revocation of any such notice, license, permit, certificate or authorization where such revocation or revocations would, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, nor has any of them received any written notice of violation from any Governmental Authority or written notice of the intention of any entity to revoke any of such notice, license, permit, certificate or authorization, that in each case has not been cured or otherwise resolved to the satisfaction of such Governmental Authority except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

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1.7 Litigation . Except for actions, suits or proceedings fully covered by policies of insurance, there is no action, suit or proceeding pending or, to the Principal’s knowledge, threatened against any Tier 1 Contributed Entity or any Contributor, Subsidiary or Property, which, if adversely determined, would, individually or together with all such other actions, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. There is no action, suit or proceeding pending or, to the Principal’s knowledge, threatened against any Contributed Entity, Subsidiary or any Contributor which challenges or impairs the ability of any Contributed Entity, Subsidiary or any Contributor to execute or deliver, or perform its obligations under any of the Formation Transaction Documentation or to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby. There is no judgment, decree, injunction, or order of a Governmental Authority outstanding against any Tier 1 Contributed Entity or Subsidiary or, to the Principal’s knowledge, any officer, director, principal, managing member, or general partner of any of the foregoing in their capacity as such, or, to the Principal’s knowledge, any Contributor which would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. No Contributed Entity or Subsidiary has received any written notice of any pending or threatened proceedings for the rezoning (i.e., as opposed to the current zoning) of any Property or any portion thereof which would substantially and materially impair the current or proposed use thereof.

 

1.8 Compliance With Laws . Each Contributed Entity and its Subsidiaries has conducted its business and maintained its Property in compliance with all applicable Laws, except for such failures that would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. None of the Contributed Entities or Subsidiaries nor, to the Principal’s knowledge, any Contributor or third party has been informed in writing of any continuing violation of any such Laws or that any investigation has been commenced and is continuing or is contemplated respecting any such possible violation, except in each case for violations that would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

1.9 Properties .

 

(a) Each Property is the subject of a policy of title insurance reflecting the respective Contributor as the owner of such Property, and, to the Principal’s knowledge, such owner is the owner of, directly or indirectly, by fee simple estate or otherwise, of such Property, in each case free and clear of all Liens, except for Permitted Liens (as defined herein).

 

(b) Except for matters that would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, (1) no Contributed Entity, nor Subsidiary, nor any other party to any material agreement affecting any Property (other than a Lease (as such term is hereinafter defined) for space within such Property, but including any agreement that constitutes a Permitted Lien), is in breach or default of any such agreement, (2) to the Principal’s knowledge, no event has occurred or has been threatened in writing, which with or without the passage of time or the giving of notice, or both, would, individually or together with all such other events, constitute a default under any such agreement, or would, individually or together with all such other events, reasonably be expected to cause the acceleration of any material obligation of any party thereto or the creation of a Lien upon any asset of any Contributed Entity or Subsidiary, except for Permitted Liens, or otherwise reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect and (3) all agreements affecting any Property required for the continued use, occupancy, management, leasing and operation of such Property (exclusive of space Leases) are valid and binding and in full force and effect, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium or other similar Laws relating to creditors’ rights and general principles of equity.

 

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(c) To the Principal’s knowledge, as presently conducted, none of the operation of the buildings, fixtures and other improvements comprising a part of any Property is in violation of any applicable building code, zoning ordinance or other “land use” Law.

 

(d) Each Contributed Entity holds the lessor’s interest under a lease with the United States Postal Service (collectively, for all of the Properties, the “ Leases ”) as described in the Registration Statement on Form S-11 filed by the REIT with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the IPO. . Except for matters that would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, (1) no Contributed Entity, nor any Subsidiary, nor, to the Principal’s Knowledge, any other party to any Lease, is in breach or default of any such Lease, (2) to the Principal’s knowledge, no event has occurred or has been threatened in writing, which with or without the passage of time or the giving of notice, or both, would, individually or together with all such other events, constitute a default under any Lease, or would permit termination, modification or acceleration under the Lease, and (3) to the Principal’s knowledge, each of the Leases is valid and binding and in full force and effect, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium or other similar Laws relating to creditors’ rights and general principles of equity. To the Principal’s Knowledge, no lessee under any of such Leases is presently the subject of any voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings.

 

1.10 Existing Loans . Schedule 1.10 lists, as of the date hereof, all (i) secured loans encumbering the Properties or any direct or indirect interest in the applicable Property Entity or Contributed Entity and (ii) any other indebtedness of any Contributed Entity or Subsidiary (collectively, the “ Disclosed Loans ”) and the outstanding aggregate principal balance as of the date set forth on Schedule 1.10. To the Principal’s knowledge, no monetary default (beyond applicable notice and cure periods) by any party exists under any of the Disclosed Loans and the documents entered into in connection therewith (collectively, the “ Disclosed Loan Documents ”) and no non-monetary default (beyond applicable notice and cure periods) by any party exists under any of the Disclosed Loan Documents.

 

1.11 Insurance . Each Property Entity or Contributed Entity or its Subsidiaries has in place the public liability, casualty and other insurance coverage with respect to each Property owned, leased and/or managed by it as the Principal reasonably deems necessary and in all cases including such coverage as is required under the terms of any loan or Lease. Each of the insurance policies with respect to each Property is in full force and effect in all material respects   and all premiums due and payable thereunder have been fully paid when due. To the Principal’s knowledge, no Property Entity or Contributed Entity nor any of the Contributors has received from any insurance company any notices of cancellation or intent to cancel any insurance.

 

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1.12 Environmental Matters . Except for matters that would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, (A) each Property Entity, Contributed Entity and its Subsidiaries is in compliance with all applicable Environmental Laws, (B) no Property Entity, Contributed Entity nor, to the Principal’s knowledge, any of the Contributors has received any written notice from any Governmental Authority or third party alleging that such Property Entity, Contributed Entity, Subsidiary or any Property is not in compliance with applicable Environmental Laws, and (C) there has not been a release of a hazardous substance on any Property that would require investigation or remediation under applicable Environmental Laws.

 

1.13 Eminent Domain . There is no existing, or to the Principal’s knowledge, proposed or threatened condemnation, eminent domain or similar proceeding, or private purchase in lieu of such a proceeding which would affect any of the Properties.

 

1.14 Taxes . Except as set forth in Schedule 1.14 :

 

(a) Each Contributed Entity and Subsidiary has timely and properly filed all Tax returns and reports required to be filed by it (after giving effect to any filing extension properly granted by a Governmental Authority having authority to do so), and all such returns and reports are accurate and complete in all material respects, and has timely paid (or had timely paid on its behalf) all Taxes as required to be paid by it.

 

(b) No deficiencies for any Taxes have been proposed, asserted, assessed or, to the Principal’s knowledge, threatened against any Contributed Entity or Subsidiary, and no requests for waivers of the time to assess any such Taxes are pending.

 

(c) No Contributed Entity or Subsidiary holds any asset the disposition of which would be subject to rules similar to Section 1374 of the Code; and no Property Entity, Contributed Entity or Subsidiary has requested or received any ruling from the IRS or comparable rulings from other taxing authorities or has entered into any “closing agreement” as described in Section 7121 of the Code or similar arrangement. There are no liens or encumbrances for Taxes on any Property, other than liens or encumbrances for Taxes not yet due and payable, and no action, proceeding or investigation has been instituted against any Property, Contributed Entity or Subsidiary or, to the Principal’s knowledge, any Contributor that would give rise to any such liens or encumbrances. Each Contributed Entity and Subsidiary has withheld and paid all Taxes required to have been withheld and paid in connection with any amounts paid or owing to any employee, independent contractor, creditor, member or other third party, and all Forms W-2 and 1099 required with respect thereto have been properly completed and timely filed.

 

(d) There are no pending or, to the Principal’s knowledge, threatened audits, assessments or other actions for or relating to any liability in respect of income or material non-income Taxes of any Property Entity, Contributed Entity or Subsidiary, there are no matters under discussion with any Tax authority with respect to income or material non-income Taxes that are likely to result in an additional liability for Taxes with respect to any Property Entity, Contributed Entity or Subsidiary and no Property Entity, Contributed Entity or Subsidiary is, or has ever been, a party to or bound by any Tax indemnity agreement, Tax sharing agreement, Tax allocation agreement or similar contract.

 

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(e) At all times since its formation, each S Corp (including any “predecessor corporation” (within the meaning of Treasury Regulations Section 1.1374-1(e)) to such S Corp) has continuously qualified as an “S corporation” within the meaning of Section 1361(a)(1) of the Code and all applicable corresponding provisions of state and local law, and no Tax authority has claimed in writing that such S Corp does not qualify as an S corporation.

 

(f) No C Corp has any current or accumulated earnings and profits.

 

(g) Since its formation, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, each Property Entity, Contributed Entity and Subsidiary, other than any S Corp or C Corp, has been treated as a partnership or a disregarded entity and not as a corporation or an association taxable as a corporation. Schedule 1.14(g)(i) sets forth each Property Entity, Contributed Entity and Subsidiary that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income Tax purposes, and except as set forth in Schedule 1.14(g)(i) , each such entity has always been treated as a partnership for U.S. federal and applicable state and local income Tax purposes. Schedule 1.14(g)(ii)  sets forth each Property Entity, Contributed Entity and Subsidiary that is treated as an entity disregarded from its owner for U.S. federal income Tax purposes, and except as set forth in Schedule 1.14(g)(ii) , each such entity has always been treated as an entity disregarded from its owner for U.S. federal and applicable state and local income Tax purposes. 

 

(h) The amount of Cash Consideration does not exceed the amount of “preformation expenditures” that may be reimbursed with respect to such properties under Section 1.707-4(d) of the Treasury Regulations without causing such amounts to fall within Section 1.707-3(a) of the Treasury Regulations.

 

(i) Any and all indebtedness to be assumed by the Operating Partnership or any of its affiliates (other than the Minnesota loan and the Reynoldsburg loan) are “qualified liabilities” within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.707-5(a)(5). No inference is intended regarding the treatment of the Minnesota loan or the Reynoldsburg loan.

 

1.15 Non-Foreign Status . None of the Contributors or Contributed Entities is a foreign person (as defined in Section 1445(f) or Section 1446(f) of the Code).

 

1.16 Bankruptcy . No bankruptcy or similar insolvency proceeding has been filed, or is currently contemplated or, to the Principal’s knowledge, threatened, with respect to any Contributed Entity, Subsidiary or any lessee under any of the Leases.

 

1.17 Employees . No Contributed Entity nor Subsidiary has or has ever had any employees. No Contributed Entity nor Subsidiary is delinquent in payments to any employees, consultants or independent contractors for any wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, or other direct compensation for any service performed or amounts required to be reimbursed to employees, consultants or independent contractors. Each Contributed Entity and Subsidiary has, to the extent applicable:

 

(a) complied in all material respects with all applicable laws related to employment;

 

(b) withheld and paid to the appropriate governmental entity or is holding for payment not yet due to such governmental entity all amounts required to be withheld from employees; and

 

(c) no policy, practice, plan or program of paying severance or pay or any form of severance compensation in connection with the termination of employment service and no agreement pursuant to which it would be required to pay severance to any director, officer, employee or consultant.

 

1.18 Contracts and Commitments . Except as set forth in the Governing Agreements of each Contributed Entity, no Contributed Entity nor Subsidiary is a party to any agreements for the sale of its assets, for the grant to any Person of any preferential right to purchase any such assets or the acquisition of any operating business, assets or capital stock of any other corporation, entity or business, other than in the ordinary course of business.

 

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ARTICLE II

 

NATURE OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

2.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties . All representations and warranties contained in this Agreement shall survive after the effective time of the contributions and other Formation Transactions contemplated in the Formation Transaction Documentation until the first anniversary of the Closing Date (the “ Expiration Date ”). If written notice of a claim in accordance with Section 3.2 has been given prior to the Expiration Date, then the relevant representation or warranty shall survive, but only with respect to such specific claim, until such claim has been finally resolved. Any claim for indemnification not so asserted in writing by the Expiration Date may not thereafter be asserted and shall forever be waived. Notwithstanding the foregoing, claims for indemnification resulting from breaches of the representations in Section 1.14 may be asserted until the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations.

 

ARTICLE III

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

3.1 Indemnification of Acquirer . The Principal agree to indemnify and hold harmless the REIT, the Operating Partnership and each of their directors, officers, employees, partners, agents and representatives (each, an “ Indemnified Party ” and collectively, the “ Indemnified Parties ”), under the terms and conditions of this Agreement, from and against any and all Losses arising out of or relating to, asserted against, imposed upon or incurred by the Indemnified Parties in connection with or as a result of any breach of a representation or warranty contained in Article I of this Agreement (subject to any indemnification claim being made prior to the Expiration Date and the survival limitations set forth in Section 2.1 hereof) (collectively, the Indemnified Losses ”); provided, the Indemnified Parties shall only be entitled to indemnification for breaches of representations and warranties made pursuant to Article I of this Agreement to the extent that the Indemnified Losses with respect to such breaches exceed, in the aggregate, one percent (1.0%) of the aggregate consideration paid by the Acquirer for the Contributed Interests (for purposes of such calculation, units of limited partnership interest in the Operating Partnership, REIT Shares and shares of Class B Common Stock of the REIT (“Class B Stock”) shall have a value per share or unit equal to the IPO Price)(the “ Deductible ”). The Principal shall only be liable for Indemnified Losses (after giving effect to, and only for amounts in excess of, the Deductible) up to the Maximum Indemnity Amount.

 

3.2 Claims.

 

(a) At the time when either the REIT or the Operating Partnership learns of any potential claim for Indemnified Losses under this Agreement (a “ Claim ”), it will promptly give written notice (a “ Claim Notice ”) to the Principal; provided that the failure to so notify the Principal shall not prevent recovery under this Agreement, except to the extent that the Principal shall have been materially prejudiced by such failure. Each Claim Notice shall describe in reasonable detail the facts known to the Indemnified Party giving rise to such Claim. The Indemnified Party shall deliver to the Principal, promptly after the Indemnified Party’s receipt thereof, copies of all notices and documents (including court papers) received by such Indemnified Party relating to a Third Party Claim (as defined below); provided that failure to do so shall not prevent recovery under this Agreement, except to the extent that the Principal shall have been materially prejudiced by such failure. Any Indemnified Party may at its option demand indemnity under this Article III as soon as a Claim has been threatened by a third party, regardless of whether an actual Loss has been suffered, so long as the Indemnified Party shall in good faith determine that such claim is not frivolous and that the Indemnified Party may be liable for, or otherwise incur, a Loss as a result thereof.

 

(b) The Principal shall be entitled, at his own expense, to elect to assume and control the defense of any Claim based on claims asserted by third parties (“ Third Party Claims ”), through counsel chosen by the Principal and reasonably acceptable to the Indemnified Parties, if the Principal gives written notice of his intention to do so to the REIT within twenty (20) days following the receipt of the applicable Claim Notice; provided, however, that the Indemnified Parties may at all times participate in such defense at their own expense. Without limiting the foregoing, in the event that the Principal exercises the right to undertake any such defense against a Third Party Claim, the Indemnified Party shall cooperate with the Principal in such defense and make available to the Principal, at the Principal’s expense, all witnesses, pertinent records, materials and information in the Indemnified Party’s possession or under such Indemnified Party’s control relating thereto as is reasonably required by the Principal. No compromise or settlement of such Third Party Claim may be effected by either the Indemnified Party, on the one hand, or the Principal, on the other hand, without the other party’s consent (which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed) unless (i) there is no finding or admission of any violation of Law and no effect on any other claims that may be made against such other party, (ii) each Indemnified Party that is party to such claim is released from all liability with respect to such claim, and (iii) there is no equitable order, judgment or term that in any manner affects, restrains or interferes with the business of the Indemnified Party that is party to such claim or any of its Affiliates. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the compromise or settlement of such Third Party Claim could reasonably be expected to adversely affect the status of the REIT as a real investment trust within the meaning of Section 856 of the Code, then the REIT shall make such decision to compromise or settle the Third Party Claim without the need to obtain the Principal’s consent.

 

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3.3 Delivery of Indemnity Amounts . Upon resolution of any disputed Claim or portion of a Claim as evidenced by (x) a written agreement between the Acquirer and the Principal or (y) a final award of an arbitral tribunal in accordance with this Agreement, the Principal shall deliver the amount of the indemnification to the Indemnified Party. Indemnity payments may be made by the Principal in the form of cash, REIT Shares, Class B Stock or OP Units. To the extent indemnification is made through delivery by the Principal of REIT Shares, Class B Stock or OP Units, such REIT Shares, Class B Stock or OP Units shall be valued at an amount per REIT Share, share of Class B Stock or OP Unit equal to the IPO Price. The Principal hereby authorizes the REIT, as general partner of the Operating Partnership, to take all such action as may be necessary to amend the stock ownership records of the REIT and the partnership agreement of the Operating Partnership, and any exhibits or schedules thereto, and to reflect the delivery of any REIT Shares, Class B Stock or OP Units by the Principal as an indemnification payment hereunder and to reflect that the Principal has no further right, title or interest with respect to any such REIT Shares or OP Units.

 

3.4 Exclusive Remedy . The sole and exclusive remedy for Indemnified Parties with respect to any and all claims relating to a breach of this Agreement (other than breaches arising out of or in connection with fraud) shall be indemnification in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. The Principal shall not be liable or obligated to make payments under this Agreement in excess of the Maximum Indemnity Amount (as defined herein).

 

3.5 Characterization of Payments . Any indemnity payments shall constitute an adjustment of the contribution consideration received by the Principal pursuant to his Contribution Agreement for Tax purposes and shall be treated as such by all parties on their tax returns to the extent permitted by Law.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

GENERAL PROVISIONS

 

4.1 Notices . All notices and other communications under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed given (i) when delivered personally, (ii) five (5) Business Days after being mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid, (iii) one (1) Business Day after being sent by a nationally recognized overnight courier or (iv) transmitted by facsimile if confirmed within twenty four (24) hours thereafter by a signed original sent in the manner provided in clause (i), (ii) or (iii) to the parties at the following addresses (or at such other address for a party as shall be specified by notice from such party): If to the REIT or the Operating Partnership, to: Postal Realty LP, 75 Columbia Avenue, Cedarhurst, NY 11516, Attention: Jeremy Garber; if to the Principal, to: 75 Columbia Avenue, Cedarhurst, NY 11516, Attention: Andrew Spodek.

 

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4.2 Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

 

(a)   Affiliate ” means, with respect to any Person, a Person that, directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the specified Person. For the purposes of this definition, “control” (including, with correlative meanings, the terms “controlled by” and “under common control with”) as used with respect to any Person, shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by agreement or otherwise.

 

(b) “ Business Day ” means any day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday in the State of New York.

 

(c) “ C Corp ” means the entities listed on Schedule 4.2(c).

   

(d) “ Closing Date ” means the closing date of the transactions contemplated by the Formation Transaction Documents.

 

(e) “ Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, together with the rules and regulations promulgated or issued thereunder.

 

(f) “ Environmental Laws ” means all federal, state and local Laws governing pollution or the protection of human health or the environment.

 

(g) “ Formation Transaction Documentation ” means all of the Contribution Agreements, this Agreement and related documents and agreements pursuant to which all of the Contributed Entities and/or the equity interests in the Contributed Entities and the Property Entities, and the Properties are to be acquired by the REIT or the Operating Partnership, directly or indirectly, as part of the Formation Transactions.

   

(h) “ Formation Transactions ” means the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the other Formation Transaction Documentation.

 

(i) “ GAAP ” means generally accepted accounting principles, as in effect in the United States of America as of the date of determination.

 

(j) “ Governmental Authority ” means any government or agency, bureau, board, commission, court, department, official, political subdivision, tribunal or other instrumentality of any government, whether federal, state or local, domestic or foreign.

   

(k) “ IPO Price ” means the public offering price set forth on the cover of the final prospectus for the IPO.

 

(l) Laws ” means laws, statutes, rules, regulations, codes, orders, ordinances, judgments, injunctions, decrees and policies of any Governmental Authority, including, without limitation, zoning, land use or other similar rules or ordinances.

 

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(m) “ Liens ” means all pledges, claims, liens, charges, restrictions, controls, easements, rights of way, exceptions, reservations, leases, licenses, grants, covenants and conditions, encumbrances and security interests of any kind or nature whatsoever.

 

(n) “ Losses ” means charges, complaints, claims, actions, causes of action, losses, damages, Taxes, liabilities and expenses of any nature whatsoever, including without limitation, amounts paid in settlement, reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs of investigation, costs of investigative judicial or administrative proceedings or appeals therefrom and costs of attachment or similar bonds, as well as all collection costs and enforcement expenses incurred in retaking, holding, preparing for sale, selling or otherwise disposing of or realizing on collateral or otherwise exercising or enforcing any rights or remedies under pledge and security or other collateral documents.

 

(o) “ Material Adverse Effect ” means with respect to each Contributed Entity, Property Equity, Subsidiary or Property, any material adverse change in any of the assets, business, condition (financial or otherwise), results of operation or prospects of such Contributed Entity, Property Entity, Subsidiary or Property.

 

(p) “ Maximum Indemnity Amount ” means ten percent (10%) of the aggregate value of the consideration paid by the Acquirer for the Contributed Interests (for purposes of such calculation, units of limited partnership interest in the Operating Partnership, REIT Shares and shares of Class B Stock shall have a value per share or unit equal to the IPO Price)

 

(q) “ Permitted Liens ” means (i) Liens, or deposits made to secure the release of such Liens, securing Taxes, the payment of which is not delinquent or the payment of which (including, without limitation, the amount or validity thereof) is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings for which adequate reserves have been made in accordance with GAAP; (ii) zoning, entitlement, building and other land use Laws imposed by governmental agencies having jurisdiction over any Property; (iii) covenants, conditions, restrictions, easements for public utilities, encroachments, rights of access or other non-monetary matters that do not materially impair the use of any Property for the purposes for it is currently being used or proposed to be used in connection with the relevant Person’s business; (iv) Liens securing Disclosed Loans; (v) Liens arising under leases disclosed in full to the Acquirer and in effect as of the Closing Date; (vi) any exceptions contained in the title policies relating to the Properties as of the Closing Date, copies of which title policies were provided to the Acquirer and their counsel, none of which substantially and materially impair the use of any Property for the purposes for which it is currently being used; and (vii) mechanics’, carriers’, workers’, repairers’ and similar Liens arising or incurred in the ordinary course of business that are not yet due and payable and which are not, in the aggregate, material to the business, operations and financial condition of any Property so encumbered.

 

(r) “ Person ” means an individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, trust, unincorporated organization or other entity.

 

(s) “ Prospectus ” means the preliminary prospectus filed by the REIT with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and used in the marketing of the IPO.

 

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(t) “ Properties ” shall have the meaning given in the Recitals and “Property” shall have the correlative meaning.

 

(u) “ S Corp ” means the entities listed on Schedule 4.2(u).

 

(v) “ Subsidiary ” means any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other legal entity in which a Contributed Entity owns (either directly or through or together with another Subsidiary) either (i) a general partner, managing member or other similar interest, or (ii) outstanding capital stock or other equity interests of such corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture or other legal entity. As used herein, “ Subsidiary ” or “ Subsidiaries ” refers to the Subsidiaries of the Contributed Entities, as set forth on Schedule 4.2(u) , unless the context otherwise requires.

 

(w) “ Tax ” means all federal, state, local and foreign income, withholding, gross receipts, license, property, sales, franchise, employment, payroll, goods and services, stamp, environmental, customs duties, capital stock, social security, transfer, alternative minimum, excise and other taxes, tariffs or governmental charges of any nature whatsoever, including estimated taxes, together with penalties, interest or additions to Tax with respect thereto, whether or not disputed.

 

4.3 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies hereof, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all of the parties hereto. Each party may rely on a facsimile or electronic pdf email signature of the other party as if it were an original signature.

 

4.4 Entire Agreement; Third-Party Beneficiaries . This Agreement, including, withoutlimitation, the exhibits hereto, constitute the entire agreement and supersede each prior agreement and understanding, whether written or oral, among the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. This Agreement is not intended to confer any rights or remedies on any Person other than the parties hereto.

 

4.5 Governing Law and Jurisdiction .

 

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with  the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflicts of law rules thereof. Each party agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be, except to the extent otherwise required by applicable law, commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any provision of this Agreement), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding.

 

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(b) Each party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

(c) If one or more parties shall commence an action, suit or proceeding to enforce any provision of this Agreement, the prevailing party or parties in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party or parties to such action, suit or proceeding for the reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred by the prevailing party or parties with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action, suit or proceeding.

 

4.6 Assignment . This Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall be enforceable by and inure to the benefit of, the parties hereto and their respective heirs, legal representatives, successors and assigns; provided, however, that this Agreement may not be assigned (except by operation of law) by any party without the prior written consent of the other parties, and any attempted assignment without such consent shall be null and void and of no force and effect, except that the REIT and the Operating Partnership may assign its rights and obligations hereunder to an Affiliate.

 

4.7 Severability . Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to that jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms and provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction. If any provision of this Agreement is so broad as to be unenforceable, the provision shall be interpreted to be only so broad as is enforceable.

 

4.8 Rules of Construction .

 

(a) The parties hereto agree that they have been represented by counsel during the negotiation, preparation and execution of this Agreement and, therefore, waive the application of any law, regulation, holding or rule of construction providing that ambiguities in an agreement or other document will be construed against the party drafting such agreement or document.

 

(b) The words “hereof,” “herein” and “herewith” and words of similar import shall, unless otherwise stated, be construed to refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Agreement, and article, section, paragraph, exhibit and schedule references are to the articles, sections, paragraphs, exhibits and schedules of this Agreement unless otherwise specified. Whenever the words “include,” “includes” or “including” are used in this Agreement, they shall be deemed to be followed by the words “without limitation.” All terms defined in this Agreement shall have the defined meanings contained herein when used in any certificate or other document made or delivered pursuant hereto unless otherwise defined therein. The definitions contained in this Agreement are applicable to the singular as well as the plural forms of such terms and to the masculine as well as to the feminine and neuter genders of such terms, unless otherwise defined herein. Any agreement, instrument or statute defined or referred to herein or in any agreement or instrument that is referred to herein means such agreement, instrument or statute as from time to time, amended, qualified or supplemented, including (in the case of agreements and instruments) by waiver or consent and (in the case of statutes) by succession of comparable successor statutes and all attachments thereto and instruments incorporated therein. References to a Person are also to its permitted successors and assigns.

 

4.9 Equitable Remedies . The parties agree that irreparable damage would occur to the Acquirer in the event that any of the provisions of this Agreement were not performed in accordance with their specific terms or were otherwise breached. It is accordingly agreed that the Acquirer shall be entitled to an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement by the Principal and to enforce specifically the terms and provisions hereof in any federal or state court located in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan, this being in addition to any other remedy to which the Acquirer is entitled under this Agreement or otherwise at law or in equity.

 

4.10 Time of the Essence . Time is of the essence with respect to all obligations under this Agreement.

 

4.11 Headings . Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Agreement are for the convenience of the parties only, and shall be given no substantive or interpretive effect whatsoever.

 

[ Signature Page Follows. ]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be signed by their respective duly authorized officers, all as of the date first written above.

 

  ACQUIRER:
   
  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC., a Maryland
  corporation
   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title:  Chief Executive Officer
     
  POSTAL REALTY LP, a Delaware limited
  partnership
   
  By: Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    a Maryland corporation, its General Partner
   
    By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
      Name: Andrew Spodek
      Title:  Chief Executive Officer

 

[Signature Page to Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement]

 

 

 

 

  PRINCIPAL :
   
  Andrew Spodek
   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Andrew Spodek

 

[Signature Page to Representation, Warranty and Indemnity Agreement]

 

 

 

 

Schedule I

 

Mass Postal Holdings, LLC
Michigan Postal Holdings LLC
Ohio Postal Holdings, LLC
Pennsylvania Postal Holdings, LLC
Wisconsin Postal Holdings, LLC
Alabama Postal Holdings, LLC
Illinois Postal Holdings, LLC
Iowa Postal Holdings, LLC
Postal Holdings LLC
Tennessee Postal Holdings, LLC
15% interest in Harbor Station LLC
Missouri & Minnesota Postal Holdings, LLC

 

 

 

 

Schedule II

Barstow, IL

Carbon Cliff, IL

Hillsdale, IL

Little York, IL

Lynn Center, IL 

New Windsor, IL

Rapids City, IL

Alpha, IL

Orion, IL 

Seatonville, IL

Hancock, NY

Elba, NY

Tulsa, OK 

Vanndale, AR 

Cadwell, GA

Colquitt, GA

Meansville, GA

Tacoma, WA

Leslie, MI

Springport, MI 

Chesaning, MI

Aurora, CO

West Sacramento, CA 

Oakdale, PA

Princess Anne, MD

Elizabeth, PA

Peru, IN

Gary, IN 

Deville, LA

Scotland, SD 

 

Glasgow, VA
Chicago, IL
Chester, WV
Flora, IN
Edina, MO
Dobson, NC
Chicago, IL
Buffalo, NY

 

Spring Grove, PA
Brockway, PA
Knox, PA
Frackville, PA

 

 

 

 

Girardville, PA
New Philadelphia, PA
Orwigsburg, PA
Ringtown, PA
Shoemakersville, PA
Tower City, PA
Williamstown, PA
Leola, PA
Castleton on Hudson, NY

 

Sundown, TX
Byron, MI
Barton, VT
Enosburg Falls, VT
Fairlee, VT
Groton, VT
Hartford, VT
Marlborough, NH
Port Henry, NY
Sheffield, VT
South Royalton, VT
Indian Rocks Beach, FL
Abington, MA
East Liverpool, OH
Poseyville, IN
Wadesville, IN
Edgewood, IA
Pelahatchie, MS
Kimball, NE
Winamac, IN
Ralls, TX

 

Milwaukee, WI

 

El Paso, TX
El Paso, TX
Stinnett, TX
Fabius, NY
Pompey, NY
Mount Vernon, IL
Deltaville, VA
Memphis, TN
Memphis, TN

 

 

Exhibit 10.15

   

TAX INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

TAX INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT, dated as of May 14, 2019 (the “Agreement”), between Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “Company”), United Properties Holding, Inc. (“UPH”), United Post Office Investments, Inc. (“UPOI”), and Andrew Spodek (the “Stockholder”).

 

WHEREAS, UPH owns 100% of the stock of UPOI;

 

WHEREAS, UPH intends to merge into the Company, with the Company surviving (the “Merger”), and as a result, the Company will succeed to any tax liabilities of UPH;

 

WHEREAS, the parties hereto desire to address certain matters between themselves in respect of the allocation of taxable income and liability for taxes in connection with the Public Offering (as defined below); and

 

WHEREAS, the parties hereto wish to provide for the termination of this Agreement such that it has no effect should the Merger not close.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing premises and the covenants and agreements hereinafter set forth, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the parties hereto agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

DEFINITIONS

 

1.1. DEFINITIONS.

 

The following terms as used herein have the following meanings:

 

“Adjustment Amount” means the net increase in taxable income or decrease in any net operating loss carryforward or net capital loss carryforward of UPH or UPOI for any period ending on or prior to the Closing Date based on a Final Determination and that gives rise to a payment pursuant to Section 2.1 hereof.

 

“Closing Date” means the date on which the Merger closes.

 

“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

“Final Determination” means the final resolution of any income or franchise tax liability (including all related interest and penalties) for a taxable period. A Final Determination shall result from the first to occur of:

 

(i) the expiration of 30 days after acceptance by the Internal Revenue Service of a Waiver of Restrictions on Assessment and Collection of Deficiency in Tax and Acceptance of Overassessment (the “Waiver”) on Federal Revenue Form 870 or 870-AD (or any successor comparable form or the expiration of a comparable period with respect to any comparable agreement or form under the laws of any other jurisdiction), unless, within such period, the applicable taxpayer gives notice of that taxpayer’s intention to attempt to recover all or part of any amount paid pursuant to the Waiver by filing a timely claim for refund;

 

 

 

(ii) a decision, judgment, decree or other order by a court of competent jurisdiction that is not subject to further judicial review (by appeal or otherwise) and has become final;

 

(iii) the execution of a closing agreement under section 7121 of the Code or the acceptance by the Internal Revenue Service or its counsel of an offer in compromise under section 7122 of the Code or the execution of a comparable agreement under the laws of any other jurisdiction;

 

(iv)       the expiration of the time for filing a claim for refund or for instituting suit in respect of a claim for refund disallowed in whole or part by the Internal Revenue Service or any other relevant taxing authority;

 

(v) any other final disposition of the tax liability for such period by reason of the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations; or

 

(vi) any other event that the parties hereto agree is a final and irrevocable determination of the liability at issue.

 

“Merger” has the meaning given such term in the Recitals.

 

“Taxable Year” means any taxable year (or portion thereof) of UPH or UPOI ending on or prior to the Closing Date.

 

“Tax Detriment” means any amount by which the tax liability of UPH, UPOI, or the Company in any taxable year is actually increased by reason of an Adjustment Amount on a tax return for such year.

 

“Taxing Authority” means the Internal Revenue Service or any comparable state taxing authority.

 

ARTICLE II

 

OBLIGATIONS

 

2.1. STOCKHOLDER’S INDEMNIFICATION OF THE COMPANY FOR TAX LIABILITIES.

 

(a) In the event of an adjustment of one or more tax returns of UPH or UPOI for a Taxable Year ending on or before the Closing Date based on a Final Determination which results in a net increase in taxable income of UPH or UPOI for a Taxable Year or a decrease in any net operating loss carryforward or net capital loss carryforward, the Stockholder agrees to pay to the Company an amount equal to the Company’s Tax Detriment.

 

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(b) The Stockholder shall pay to the Company any amounts calculated in accordance with this Section 2.1 within 30 business days after the first to occur of delivery of a notice from the Company of such Final Determination.

 

ARTICLE III

 

CONTESTS/COOPERATION

 

3.1. CONTESTS.

 

Whenever the Stockholder or the Company becomes aware of an issue that they or it believe could result in a Final Determination which could give rise to a payment or indemnification obligation under Article II, the Stockholder or the Company (as the case may be) shall promptly give notice of the issue to the other parties hereto. The Stockholder and his representatives, at his expense, shall be entitled to participate in all conferences and meetings with or proceedings before the Internal Revenue Service or any other Taxing Authority with respect to the issue. The parties shall consult and cooperate with each other in the negotiation and settlement or litigation of any adjustment that may give rise to any payment or indemnification obligation under Article II. All decisions with respect to such negotiation and settlement or litigation shall be made by the parties after full, good faith consultation or pursuant to the dispute resolution provisions of Section 3.2.

 

3.2. DISPUTE RESOLUTION.

 

(a) If the parties hereto are, after negotiation in good faith, unable to agree upon the appropriate application of the provisions of this Agreement, the controversy shall be settled by a “Big 4” (or equivalent) accounting firm, other than the independent public accountants for the Company, chosen by the Company. The decision of the Accounting Firm with respect thereto shall be final, and the Stockholder and the Company, as applicable, shall immediately pay any amounts due under this Agreement pursuant to such decision. The applicable expenses of the Accounting Firm shall be borne one-half by the Company and one-half by the Stockholder unless the Accounting Firm specifies otherwise.

 

(b) In the event that either the Stockholder or the Company receives notice, whether verbally or in writing, of any federal, state, local or foreign tax examination, claim, settlement, proposed adjustment or related matter that may affect in any way the liability of a Stockholder under this Agreement, the Stockholder or the Company, as applicable, shall within ten (10) days notify the other parties hereto in writing thereof; provided, however, that any failure to give such notice shall not reduce a party’s right to indemnification under this Agreement except to the extent of actual damage incurred by the other parties as a result of such failure. The party or parties who would be required to indemnify (the “Indemnifying Party”) the other party or parties (the “Indemnified Party”) shall be entitled in their reasonable discretion and at their sole expense to handle, control and compromise or settle the defense of any matter that may give rise to a liability under this Agreement; provided, however, that such Indemnifying Party from time to time provides assurances reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnified Party that (i) the Indemnifying Party is financially capable of pursuing such defense to its conclusion, and (ii) such defense is actually being pursued in a reasonable manner.

 

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3.3. COOPERATION.

 

The parties shall make available to each other, as reasonably requested, and to any Taxing Authority all information, records or documents relating to any liability for taxes covered by this Agreement and shall preserve such information, records and documents until the expiration of any applicable statute of limitations or extensions thereof. The party requesting such information shall reimburse the other party for all reasonable out-of-pocket costs incurred in producing such information.

 

3.4. COSTS.

 

Except to the extent otherwise provided herein, each party shall bear its own costs in connection with this Agreement.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

4.1. COUNTERPARTS AND FACSIMILES.

 

This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which counterparts collectively shall constitute a single instrument representing the agreement among the parties hereto. Transmission of facsimile copies of an executed counterpart of a signature page of this Agreement will have the same effect as delivery of the manually executed counterpart of this Agreement.

 

4.2. CONSTRUCTION OF TERMS.

 

Nothing herein expressed or implied is intended, or shall be construed, to confer upon or give any person, firm or corporation, other than the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns, any rights or remedies under or by reason of this Agreement.

 

4.3. GOVERNING LAW.

 

This Agreement and the rights and duties of the parties hereunder shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

 

4.4. AMENDMENT AND MODIFICATION.

 

This Agreement may be amended, modified or supplemented only by a writing executed by all the parties hereto.

 

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4.5. ASSIGNMENT.

 

Except by operation of law or in connection with the sale of all or substantially all the assets of a party, this Agreement shall not be assignable, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, by the Stockholder without the written consent of the Company or by the Company without the written consent of the Stockholder. Any attempt to assign any rights or obligations arising under this Agreement without such consent shall be void. The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by, the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns.

 

4.6. INTERPRETATION.

 

The title, article and section headings contained in this Agreement are solely for the purpose of reference, are not part of the agreement of the parties, and shall not in any way affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

 

4.7. SEVERABILITY.

 

In the event that any one or more of the provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be illegal, invalid or unenforceable in any respect, the same shall not in any respect affect the validity, legality or enforceability of the remainder of this Agreement, and the parties shall use their best efforts to replace such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision with an enforceable provision approximating, to the extent possible, the original intent of the parties.

 

4.8. ENTIRE AGREEMENT.

 

This Agreement embodies the entire agreement and understanding of the parties hereto in respect to the subject matter contained herein. There are no representations, promises, warranties, covenants or undertakings other than those expressly set forth herein. This Agreement supersedes all prior agreements and understandings between the parties with respect to such subject matter.

 

4.9. FURTHER ASSURANCES.

 

Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, the parties shall acknowledge such other instruments and documents and take all other actions that may be reasonably required in order to effectuate the purposes of this Agreement.

 

4.10. WAIVERS, ETC.

 

No failure or delay on the part of any party in exercising any power or right under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such right or power or any abandonment or discontinuance of steps to enforce such right or power preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right or power. No waiver of any provision of this Agreement nor consent to any departure by the parties therefrom shall in any event be effective unless it shall be in writing, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the purpose for which it was given.

 

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4.11. SET-OFF.

 

All payments to be made by the Stockholder under this Agreement shall be made without set-off, counterclaim or withholding, all of which are expressly waived.

 

4.12. CHANGE OF LAW.

 

If, due to any change in applicable law or regulations or the interpretation thereof by any court or other governing body having jurisdiction subsequent to the date of this Agreement, performance of any provision of this Agreement shall be impracticable or impossible, the parties shall use their best efforts to find an alternative means to achieve the same or substantially the same results as are contemplated by such provision.

  

4.13. NOTICES.

 

All notices under this Agreement shall be validly given if in writing and delivered personally or sent by registered mail, postage prepaid at the respective addresses set forth below:

 

If to the Company, at:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

If to UPH, at:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

Attention: UPH - Andrew Spodek

 

If to UPOI, at:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

Attention: UPOI - Andrew Spodek

 

If to the Stockholder, at:

 

Nationwide Postal Properties, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Andrew Spodek

 

or at such other address as any party may, from time to time, designate in a written notice given in a like manner. Notice given by mail shall be deemed delivered five calendar days after the date mailed.

 

4.14. TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT.

 

This Agreement shall terminate and be void, as if it never had been executed, if the Closing Date does not occur on or before May 14, 2019.

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
       
  By /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: Chief Executive Officer
       
  UNITED PROPERTIES HOLDINGS, INC.
       
  By /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: On behalf of the Sole Stockholder
       
  UNITED POST OFFICE INVESTMENTS, INC.
       
  By /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Name: Andrew Spodek
    Title: On behalf of the Sole Stockholder
       
  STOCKHOLDER
       
    /s/ Andrew Spodek
    Andrew Spodek

 

Signature Page for Tax Indemnification Agreement

  

 

7

 

Exhibit 10.17

 

TAX PROTECTION AGREEMENT

 

THIS TAX PROTECTION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made and entered into as of May 14, 2019 by and among Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”), Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “ REIT ”), and the sole general partner of the Partnership, and Andrew Spodek, Tayaka Holdings, LLC, and IDJ Holdings, LLC, as contributors (the “ Contributors ”) (together with the Partnership and the REIT, the “ Parties ”).

 

WHEREAS, the Contributors, pursuant to that certain Contribution Agreement, dated the date hereof, by and among the Contributors and the Partnership (the “ Contribution Agreement ”), are contributing limited liability company interests (the “ Contribution ”), in each Entity (as defined below), to the Partnership in exchange for common units of limited partnership interest in the Partnership (“ OP Units ”);

 

WHEREAS, it is intended for federal income tax purposes that the Contribution for OP Units will be treated as a tax-deferred contribution of the interests in the Entities, or the Properties (as defined below), in the case of any Entities that are disregarded as separate from a Contributor for federal income tax purposes, to the Partnership for OP Units under Section 721 of the Code;

 

WHEREAS, Tayaka Holdings, LLC and IDJ Holdings, LLC are treated as disregarded entities wholly owned by Andrew Spodek;

 

WHEREAS, in consideration for the agreement of the Contributors to make the Contribution, the Parties desire to enter into this Agreement regarding certain tax matters as set forth herein; and

 

WHEREAS, the REIT and the Partnership desire to evidence their agreement regarding amounts that may be payable in the event of certain actions being taken by the Partnership regarding the disposition of certain of the Properties held within the Entities, and regarding certain minimum debt obligations of the Partnership and its subsidiaries.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and the mutual representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained herein and in the Contribution Agreement, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS

 

To the extent not otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used in this Agreement have the meanings ascribed to them in the Partnership Agreement (as defined below).

 

Accounting Firm ” has the meaning set forth in the Section 4.2 .

 

Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

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Book Gain ” means any gain that would not be required under Section 704(c) of the Code and the applicable regulations to be specially allocated to the Protected Partners for federal income tax purposes (for example, any gain attributable to appreciation in the actual value of the Gain Limitation Property following the Closing Date or any gain resulting from reductions in the “book value” of the Gain Limitation Property following the Closing Date).

 

Cash Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a) .

 

Closing Date ” means the date on which the Contribution will be effective.

 

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

Contribution ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Contribution Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Deficit Restoration Obligation ” means a written obligation by a Protected Partner to restore part or all of its deficit capital account in the Partnership upon the occurrence of certain events (which written obligation may provide for an indemnity in favor of the REIT as general partner of the Partnership).

 

Entity ” means each limited liability company in which the Contributor is contributing its limited liability company interests as described in the Preamble and as set forth next to each Gain Limitation Property on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto.

 

Final Determination ” means (i) a decision, judgment, decree or other order by any court of competent jurisdiction, which decision, judgment, decree or other order has become final after all allowable appeals by either party to the action have been exhausted or after the time for filing such appeals has expired, (ii) a binding settlement agreement entered into in connection with an administrative or judicial proceeding (iii) the expiration of the time for instituting a claim for refund, or if such a claim was filed, the expiration of the time for instituting suit with respect thereto or (iv) the expiration of the time for instituting suit with respect to a claimed deficiency.

 

Gain Limitation Property ” means (i) each property or asset identified on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto as a Gain Limitation Property; (ii) any direct or indirect interest owned by the Partnership in any entity that owns an interest in a Gain Limitation Property, if the disposition of that interest would result in the recognition of Protected Gain by a Protected Partner; and (iii) any other property that the Partnership directly or indirectly receives that is in whole or in part a “substituted basis property” as defined in Section 7701(a)(42) of the Code with respect to a Gain Limitation Property.

 

Guaranteed Amount ” means the aggregate amount of each Guaranteed Debt that is guaranteed at any time by Partner Guarantors.

 

Guaranteed Debt ” means any loans incurred (or assumed) by the Partnership or any of its subsidiaries that are guaranteed by Partner Guarantors at any time after the Closing Date pursuant to Article 3 hereof.

 

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Indirect Owner ” means, in the case of a Protected Partner that is an entity that is classified as a partnership, disregarded entity or subchapter S corporation or real estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes, any person owning an equity interest in such Protected Partner, and in the case of any Indirect Owner that itself is an entity that is classified as a partnership, disregarded entity, subchapter S corporation or real estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes, any person owning an equity interest in such entity.

 

Maintained Debt ” means (1) that certain Business Loan Agreement, dated December 13, 2017, between Missouri & Minnesota Postal Holdings LLC, as borrower, and First Oklahoma Bank, as lender (the “Minnesota Loan”) and (2) that certain Business Loan Agreement, dated as of January 30, 2018, between Ohio Postal Holdings LLC, as borrower, and Vision Bank, NA, as lender (the “Reynoldsburg Loan”).

 

Maintained Debt Guarantees ” means (1) that certain Commercial Guaranty, dated as of December 13, 2017, by Andrew Spodek, as guarantor, in favor of First Oklahoma Bank related to the Minnesota Loan and (2) that certain Commercial Guaranty, dated as of January 30, 2018, by Andrew Spodek, as guarantor, in favor of Vision Bank, NA, related to the Reynoldsburg Loan.

 

Minimum Liability Amount ” means, for each Protected Partner, the amount set forth next to such Protected Partner’s name on Schedule 3.2(a) hereto.

 

Nonrecourse Liability ” has the meaning set forth in Treasury Regulations Section 1.752-1(a)(2).

 

Notice Period ” means the period commencing on May 14, 2029, and ending May 14, 2031, provided, however, that the Notice Period shall terminate at such time as such Protected Partner has disposed of 100% of the OP units received upon the Contribution in one or more taxable transactions.

 

OP Units ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Parties ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Partner Guarantors ” means those Protected Partners who have guaranteed any portion of the Guaranteed Debt.

 

Partnership ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Partnership Agreement ” means the Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Partnership, dated as of May 14, 2019, as amended, and as the same may be further amended in accordance with the terms thereof.

 

Partnership Interest Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a) .

 

Property ” or “ Properties ” means the real property assets or other assets of an Entity.

 

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Protected Gain ” shall mean the gain that would be allocable to and recognized by a Protected Partner for federal income tax purposes under Section 704(c) of the Code in the event of the sale of a Gain Limitation Property in a fully taxable transaction. The initial amount of Protected Gain with respect to each Protected Partner shall be determined as if the Partnership sold each Gain Limitation Property in a fully taxable transaction on the Closing Date for consideration equal to the Section 704(c) Value of such Gain Limitation Property on the Closing Date, and is set forth on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto. After the Closing Date, Protected Gain shall be reduced from time to time to reflect reductions in the “book-tax disparity” with respect to each Property in accordance with Treasury Regulations § 1.704-3 as provided in Article 6 below. Book Gain shall not be considered Protected Gain.

 

Protected Partner ” means the Contributors and any person who (i) acquires OP Units from a Protected Partner in a transaction in which gain or loss is not recognized in whole or in part and in which such transferee’s adjusted basis for federal income tax purposes is determined in whole or in part by reference to the adjusted basis of the Protected Partner in such OP Units, (ii) has notified the Partnership of its status as a Protected Partner and (iii) provides all documentation reasonably requested by the Partnership to verify such status (including any applicable debt guarantee), but excludes any person that ceases to be a Protected Partner pursuant to this Agreement.

 

Section 704(c) Value ” means the fair market value of any Gain Limitation Property as of the Closing Date, as determined by the Partnership and as set forth next to each Gain Limitation Property on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto. The Partnership shall initially carry the Gain Limitation Property on its books at a value equal to the Section 704(c) Value as set forth on Schedule 2.1.

 

Subsidiary ” means any entity in which the Partnership owns a direct or indirect interest that owns a Gain Limitation Property on the Closing Date or that thereafter is a successor to the Partnership’s direct or indirect interests in a Gain Limitation Property.

 

Successor Partnership ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(b) .

 

Tax Protection Period ” means the period commencing on the Closing Date and ending at 12:01 AM on May 14, 2029, provided, however, that with respect to a Protected Partner, the Tax Protection Period shall terminate at such time as (i) such Protected Partner has disposed of one hundred percent (100%) of the OP Units received on the Contribution in one or more taxable transactions or (ii) there is a Final Determination that no portion of the Contribution qualified for tax-deferred treatment under Section 721 of the Code.

 

Vertical Slice Guarantee ” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.2(a) .

 

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ARTICLE 2

RESTRICTIONS ON DISPOSITIONS OF

GAIN LIMITATION PROPERTIES

 

2.1 Restrictions on Disposition of Gain Limitation Properties .

 

(a) The Partnership agrees for the benefit of each Protected Partner, for the term of the Tax Protection Period, not to directly or indirectly sell, exchange, transfer, or otherwise dispose of a Gain Limitation Property or any interest therein, without regard to whether such disposition is voluntary or involuntary, in a transaction that would cause any Protected Partner to recognize any Protected Gain.

 

Without limiting the foregoing, the term “sale, exchange, transfer or disposition” by the Partnership shall be deemed to include, and the prohibition shall extend to:

 

(i) any direct or indirect disposition by any direct or indirect Subsidiary of any Gain Limitation Property or any interest therein;
   
(ii) any direct or indirect disposition by the Partnership of any Gain Limitation Property (or any direct or indirect interest therein) that is subject to Section 704(c)(1)(B) of the Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder; and
   
(iii) any distribution by the Partnership to a Protected Partner that is subject to Section 737 of the Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder.

 

Without limiting the foregoing, a disposition shall include any transfer, voluntary or involuntary, by the Partnership or any Subsidiary in a foreclosure proceeding, pursuant to a deed in lieu of foreclosure, or in a bankruptcy proceeding.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 2.1 shall not apply to a voluntary, actual disposition by a Protected Partner of OP Units in connection with a merger or consolidation of the Partnership pursuant to which (1) the Protected Partner is offered as consideration for the OP Units either cash or property treated as cash pursuant to Section 731 of the Code (“ Cash Consideration ”) or partnership interests and the receipt of such partnership interests would not result in the recognition of gain for federal income tax purposes by the Protected Partner (“ Partnership Interest Consideration ”); (2) the Protected Partner has the right to elect to receive solely Partnership Interest Consideration in exchange for his OP Units, and the continuing partnership has agreed in writing to assume the obligations of the Partnership under this Agreement; (3) no Protected Gain is recognized by the Partnership as a result of any partner of the Partnership receiving Cash Consideration; and (4) the Protected Partner elects or is deemed to elect to receive solely Cash Consideration.

 

(b) Notwithstanding the restriction set forth in this Section 2.1 , the Partnership and any Subsidiary may dispose of any Gain Limitation Property (or any interest therein) if such disposition qualifies as a “like-kind exchange” under Section 1031 of the Code, or an involuntary conversion under Section 1033 of the Code, or other transaction (including, but not limited to, a contribution of property to any entity that qualifies for the non-recognition of gain under Section 721 or Section 351 of the Code, or a merger or consolidation of the Partnership with or into another entity that qualifies for taxation as a “partnership” for federal income tax purposes (a “ Successor Partnership ”) that, as to each of the foregoing, does not result in the recognition of any taxable income or gain to any Protected Partner with respect to any of the OP Units; provided, however, that in the case of a “like-kind exchange” under Section 1031 of the Code, if such exchange is with a “related party” within the meaning of Section 1031(f)(3) of the Code, any direct or indirect disposition by such related party of the Gain Limitation Property or any other transaction prior to the expiration of the two (2) year period following such exchange that would cause Section 1031(f)(1) of the Code to apply with respect to such Gain Limitation Property (including by reason of the application of Section 1031(f)(4) of the Code) shall be considered a violation of this Section 2.1 by the Partnership.

 

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ARTICLE 3

ALLOCATION OF LIABILITIES; GUARANTEE AND DEFICIT RESTORATION

OBLIGATION OPPORTUNITY; NOTIFICATION OF REDUCTION OF LIABILITIES;

COOPERATION REGARDING ADDITIONAL ALLOCATION OF LIABILITIES

 

3.1 Maintenance of Specific Indebtedness . As of the date hereof, Andrew Spodek has entered into the Maintained Debt Guarantees. Until May 14, 2023, the Partnership shall maintain the Maintained Debt, provided that the Partnership may make any required debt service payments on the Maintained Debt pursuant to the terms as of the date hereof, and the Partnership may refinance the Maintained Debt with property level debt secured by the same properties that currently secure the Maintained Debt so long as the refinancing debt has a term and payment schedule no earlier than the Maintained Debt. If the Partnership refinances the Maintained Debt, the Partnership will offer to each Protected Partner the opportunity to enter into a guarantee with terms comparable to the Maintained Debt Guarantee with respect to such refinancing debt. After May 14, 2023, subject to the entrepreneurial risk of the Partnership, the Partnership may, but is not required to, reduce the Maintained Debt, provided that the obligation to allocate the Minimum Liability Amount to the extent required by this Article 3 shall continue to apply.

 

3.2 Maintenance of Indebtedness . During the Tax Protection Period, the Partnership shall maintain an amount of indebtedness sufficient to allow each Protected Partner, after taking advantage of the provisions of this Article 3, to be allocated Partnership liabilities for purposes of Section 752 of the Code, and to be “at risk” with respect to Partnership liabilities for purposes of Section 465 of the Code, in each case in an amount no less than such Protected Partner’s Minimum Liability Amount. For the avoidance of doubt, the parties acknowledge that in addition to the Maintained Debt Guarantees, the Contributors as of the date hereof have also provided a guarantee of the full amount of that certain Loan Agreement, dated as of September 8, 2016, between Florida Postal Holdings, LLC, Pennsylvania Postal Holdings, LLC, Colorado Postal Holdings, LLC, Mass Postal Holdings, LLC, Michigan Postal Holdings, LLC, Unlimited Postal Holdings, LP, Ohio Postal Holdings, LLC, Kinston Metro Postal, LLC and Wisconsin Postal Holdings, LLC, as borrowers, and Vision Bank, NA, as lender, pursuant to that certain Unconditional and Continuing Guaranty dated as of September 8, 2016, by Andrew Spodek, as guarantor, in favor of Vision Bank, NA.

 

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3.3 Minimum Liability Allocation .

 

(a) During the Tax Protection Period, the Partnership will offer to each Protected Partner the opportunity, in the Partnership’s discretion, either (i) to enter into a “vertical slice guarantee” of certain liabilities of the Partnership (substantially in the form set forth in Schedule 3.2(b)) pursuant to which the lender for such Guaranteed Debt is required to pursue all other collateral and security for the Guaranteed Debt (other than any “vertical slice guarantees”) prior to seeking to collect on such a Partner Guarantor, and the Protected Partner will guarantee a fractional share of each dollar of the Guaranteed Debt, and the maximum aggregate liability of each partner for all Guaranteed Debt shall be limited to the amount actually guaranteed by such Partner Guarantor (a “ Vertical Slice Guarantee ”) or (ii) in the event that the Partnership has sufficient recourse debt outstanding, to enter into a Deficit Restoration Obligation, in such amount or amounts so as to cause a special allocation of partnership liabilities to such Protected Partner for purposes of Section 752 of the Code such that the Protected Partner’s allocable share of Partnership liabilities equals such Protected Partner’s Minimum Liability Amount and to cause a special allocation of partnership liabilities for purposes of Section 465 of the Code that increases the Protected Partner’s “at risk” amount such that the Protected Partner’s “at-risk” amount equals such Protected Partner’s Minimum Liability Amount. In order to minimize the need for Protected Partners to enter into such Vertical Slice Guarantees or Deficit Restoration Obligations, the Partnership will use the additional method under Treasury Regulations Section 1.752-3(a)(3) to allocate Nonrecourse Liabilities considered secured by a Gain Limitation Property to the Protected Partners to the extent that the “built-in gain” with respect to those properties exceeds the amount of the Nonrecourse Liabilities considered secured by such Gain Limitation Property allocated to the Protected Partners under Treasury Regulations Section 1.752-3(a)(2).

 

(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, if, due to a change in law, a Protected Partner reasonably believes that such Protected Partner may no longer continue to be allocated such Guaranteed Amount of a Guaranteed Debt, such Protected Partner may request a modification of such Vertical Slice Guarantee and the Partnership will use its commercially reasonable efforts to work with the lender with respect to such Guaranteed Debt to have the Vertical Slice Guarantee amended in a manner that will permit such Protected Partner to be allocated such Protected Partner’s Guaranteed Amount with respect to the Guaranteed Debt or, in the event the Partnership has sufficient recourse debt outstanding, such Protected Partner, at its option, shall be offered the opportunity to enter into a Deficit Restoration Obligation in an amount equal to such Guaranteed Amount so that, assuming such Deficit Restoration Obligation is effective under applicable law, the amount of Partnership liabilities allocated to such Protected Partner shall not decrease as a result of the change in law. Furthermore, if, due to a change in law, a Protected Partner reasonably believes such Protected Partner may no longer continue to be allocated Partnership liabilities with respect to a Deficit Restoration Obligation, such Protected Partner may request a modification of the terms of such Deficit Restoration Obligation and the Partnership will use commercially reasonable efforts to modify such Deficit Restoration Obligation in a manner that will permit such Protected Partner to be allocated Partnership liabilities in an amount so as to cause such Protected Partner’s allocable share of Partnership liabilities to equal such Protected Partner’s Minimum Liability Amount.

 

3.4 Notification Requirement . During the Tax Protection Period, the Partnership shall provide prior written notice to a Protected Partner if the Partnership intends to repay, retire, refinance or otherwise reduce (other than due to scheduled amortization) the amount of liabilities with respect to a Gain Limitation Property in a manner that would cause a Protected Partner to recognize gain for federal income tax purposes as a result of a decrease of the Protected Partner’s share of Partnership liabilities below the Minimum Liability Amount (determined as of the Closing Date).

 

7

 

 

3.5 Additional Allocation of Liabilities . If the Partnership provides notice to a Protected Partner pursuant to Section 3.3 , the Partnership shall cooperate with the Protected Partner to arrange an additional allocation of liabilities of the Partnership to the Protected Partner in such amount or amounts so as to increase the amount of partnership liabilities allocated to such Protected Partner for purposes of Section 752 of the Code by an amount necessary to prevent the Protected Partner from recognizing gain for federal income tax purposes up to the Minimum Liability Amount (determined as of the Closing Date) as a result of the intended repayment, retirement, refinancing or other reduction (other than scheduled amortization) in the amount of liabilities with respect to a Gain Limitation Property, including, without limitation, offering to the Protected Partner the opportunity, in the Partnership’s discretion, either (i) to enter into additional Vertical Slice Guarantees (substantially in the form set forth in Schedule 3.2(b) or (ii) to enter into additional Deficit Restoration Obligations, in either case to the extent of the amount of the Minimum Liability Amount (determined as of the Closing Date). In order to minimize the need to make additional special allocations of liabilities of the Partnership pursuant to the preceding sentence, the Partnership will use the additional method under Treasury Regulations Section 1.752-3(a)(3) to allocate Nonrecourse Liabilities considered secured by a Gain Limitation Property to the Protected Partner to the extent that the “built-in gain” with respect to those properties exceeds the amount of the Nonrecourse Liabilities considered secured by such Gain Limitation Property and allocated to the Protected Partner under Treasury Regulations Section 1.752-3(a)(2).

 

3.6 Deficit Restoration Obligation . In the event that the Partnership otherwise has sufficient recourse debt outstanding and a Protected Partner has elected to enter into a Deficit Restoration Obligation, the Partnership will maintain an amount of indebtedness of the Partnership that is considered “recourse” indebtedness (taking into account all of the facts and circumstances related to the indebtedness, the Partnership and the general partner) equal to or greater than the sum of the amounts subject to a Deficit Restoration Obligation of all Protected Partners and other partners in the Partnership. The Deficit Restoration Obligation shall be conclusively presumed to cause the Protected Partner to be allocated an amount of liabilities equal to the Deficit Restoration Obligation amount of such Protected Partner for purposes of Sections 465 and 752 of the Code, provided that (1) the Partnership maintains an amount of debt that is considered “recourse” indebtedness (determined for purposes of Section 752 of the Code and taking into account all of the facts and circumstances related to the indebtedness, the Partnership and the general partner) equal to the aggregate Deficit Restoration Obligation amounts of all partners of the Partnership and (2) all other terms and conditions of the Partnership Agreement with respect to such Deficit Restoration Obligation are met.

 

8

 

 

ARTICLE 4

REMEDIES FOR BREACH

 

4.1 Monetary Damages . In the event that the Partnership breaches its obligations set forth in Article 2 or Article 3 with respect to a Protected Partner, the Protected Partner’s sole remedy shall be to receive from the Partnership, and the Partnership shall pay to such Protected Partner as damages, an amount equal to:

 

(a) in the case of a violation of Article 2, the aggregate federal, state, and local income taxes incurred by the Protected Partner or an Indirect Owner with respect to the Protected Gain that is allocable to such Protected Partner under the Partnership Agreement as a result of the disposition of the Gain Limitation Property; and
   
(b) in the case of a violation of Article 3, the aggregate federal, state and local income taxes incurred by the Protected Partner or an Indirect Owner as a result of the income or gain allocated to, or otherwise recognized by, such Protected Partner with respect to its OP Units by reason of such breach.

 

In addition, the Partnership shall pay to the Protected Partner or Indirect Owner an amount equal to the aggregate federal, state, and local income taxes payable by the Protected Partner or Indirect Owner as a result of the receipt of any payment required under this Section 4.1.

 

For the avoidance of doubt, so long as the Partnership provides the opportunities referenced in Sections 3.2 and 3.4 and complies with the notification requirement of Section 3.3 , the Partnership shall have no liability pursuant to this Section 4.1 in the event it is determined that a Protected Partner has not been specially allocated for purposes of Section 752 of the Code an amount of partnership liabilities equal to such Protected Partner’s Minimum Liability Amount or is not treated as receiving a special allocation of partnership liabilities for purposes of Section 465 of the Code that increases such Protected Partner’s “at risk” amount by an amount equal to such Protected Partner’s Minimum Liability Amount. Furthermore, the Partnership shall have no liability pursuant to this Section 4.1 if the Partnership merges into another entity treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes or the Protected Partner accepts an offer to exchange its OP Units for equity interests in another entity treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes so long as, in either case, such successor entity assumes or agrees to assume the Partnership’s obligations pursuant to this Agreement.

 

For purposes of computing the amount of federal, state, and local income taxes required to be paid by a Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner), (i) any deduction for state income taxes payable as a result thereof actually allowed in computing federal income taxes shall be taken into account, and (ii) a Protected Partner’s (or Indirect Owner’s) tax liability shall be computed using the highest federal, state and local marginal income tax rates (plus the tax rate on net investment income, if applicable) that would be applicable to such Protected Partner’s (or Indirect Owner’s) taxable income (taking into account the character and type of such income or gain) for the year with respect to which the taxes must be paid, without regard to any deductions, losses or credits that may be available to such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) that would reduce or offset its actual taxable income or actual tax liability if such deductions, losses or credits could be utilized by the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) to offset other income, gain or taxes of the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner), either in the current year, in earlier years, or in later years.

 

9

 

 

4.2 Process for Determining Damages . If the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 or Article 3 (or a Protected Partner asserts that the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 or Article 3 ), the Partnership and the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) agree to negotiate in good faith to resolve any disagreements regarding any such breach or violation and the amount of damages, if any, payable to such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) under Section 4.1 . If any such disagreement cannot be resolved by the Partnership and such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) within sixty (60) days after the receipt of notice from the Partnership of such breach and the amount of income to be recognized by reason thereof (or, if applicable, receipt by the Partnership of an assertion by a Protected Partner that the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 or Article 3 ), the Partnership and the Protected Partner shall jointly retain a nationally recognized independent public accounting firm (an “ Accounting Firm ”) to act as an arbitrator to resolve as expeditiously as possible all points of any such disagreement (including, without limitation, whether a breach of any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 or Article 3, has occurred and, if so, the amount of damages to which the Protected Partner is entitled as a result thereof, determined as set forth in Section 4.1 ). The Partnership and the Protected Partner shall cooperate with the Accounting Firm and shall furnish the Accounting Firm with all information reasonably requested by the Accounting Firm. All determinations made by the Accounting Firm with respect to the resolution of any breach or violation of any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 or Article 3 and the amount of damages payable to the Protected Partner under Section 4.1 shall be final, conclusive and binding on the Partnership and the Protected Partner. The fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be shared equally by the Partnership and the Protected Partner, provided that if the amount determined by the Accounting Firm to be owed by the Partnership to the Protected Partner is more than five percent (5%) higher than the amount proposed by the Partnership to be owed to such Protected Partner prior to the submission of the matter to the Accounting Firm, then all of the fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be paid by the Partnership and if the amount determined by the Accounting Firm to be owed by the Partnership to the Protected Partner is more than five percent (5%) less than the amount proposed by the Partnership to be owed to such Protected Partner prior to the submission of the matter to the Accounting Firm, then all of the fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be paid by the Protected Partner.

 

4.3 Required Notices; Time for Payment . In the event that there has been a breach of Article 2 or Article 3, the Partnership shall provide to each affected Protected Partner notice of the transaction or event giving rise to such breach not later than at such time as the Partnership provides to the Protected Partners the IRS Schedule K-1’s to the Partnership’s federal income tax return for the year of such transaction. All payments required to be made under this Article 4 to any Protected Partner shall be made to such Protected Partner on or before April 15 of the year following the year in which the gain recognition event giving rise to such payment took place; provided that, if the Protected Partner is required to make estimated tax payments that would include such gain (taking into account all available safe harbors), the Partnership shall make a payment to the Protected Partner on or before the due date for such estimated tax payment and such payment from the Partnership shall be in an amount that corresponds to the amount of the estimated tax being paid by such Protected Partner at such time as a result of the gain recognition event, which payment shall be credited against the total amount payable under this Article 4. In the event of a payment made after the date required pursuant to this Section 4.3 , interest shall accrue on the aggregate amount required to be paid from such date to the date of actual payment at a rate equal to the “prime rate” of interest, as published in the Wall Street Journal (or if no longer published there, an equivalent publication) effective as of the date the payment is required to be made.

 

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ARTICLE 5

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL GAIN LIMITATION PROPERTY DURING

NOTICE PERIOD

 

During the Notice Period, if the Partnership intends to dispose of a Gain Limitation Property in a taxable transaction, the Partnership shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide at least 90 days’ prior written notice (prior to the closing of such disposition) to the Protected Partners.

 

ARTICLE 6

SECTION 704(C) METHOD AND ALLOCATIONS

 

Notwithstanding any provision of the Partnership Agreement, the Partnership shall use the “traditional method” under Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-3(b) for purposes of making all allocations under Section 704(c) of the Code with respect to any Gain Limitation Property.

 

ARTICLE 7

AMENDMENT OF THIS AGREEMENT; WAIVER OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS

 

7.1 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, directly or indirectly (including by reason of a merger between either the Partnership or the REIT and another entity) except by a written instrument signed by the REIT, the Partnership, and each of the Protected Partners to be subject to such amendment, except that the Partnership may amend Schedules 2.1(a) and 3.2(a) upon a person becoming a Protected Partner as a result of a transfer of OP Units.

 

7.2 Waiver . Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon written request by the Partnership, each Protected Partner, in its sole discretion, may waive the payment of any damages or indemnification amount that is otherwise payable to such Protected Partner pursuant to Article 4 hereof. Such a waiver shall be effective only if obtained in writing from the affected Protected Partner.

 

ARTICLE 8

MISCELLANEOUS

 

8.1 Additional Actions and Documents . Each of the Parties hereby agrees to take or cause to be taken such further actions, to execute, deliver, and file or cause to be executed, delivered and filed such further documents, and will obtain such consents, as may be necessary or as may be reasonably requested in order to fully effectuate the purposes, terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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8.2 Assignment . No Party shall assign its or his rights or obligations under this Agreement, in whole or in part, except by operation of law, without the prior written consent of the other Parties, and any such assignment contrary to the terms hereof shall be null and void and of no force and effect.

 

8.3 Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the Protected Partners and their respective successors and permitted assigns, whether so expressed or not. This Agreement shall be binding upon the REIT, the Partnership, and any entity that is a direct or indirect successor, whether by merger, transfer, spin-off or otherwise, to all or substantially all of the assets of either the REIT or the Partnership (or any prior successor thereto as set forth in the preceding portion of this sentence), provided that none of the foregoing shall result in the release of liability of the REIT and the Partnership hereunder. The REIT and the Partnership covenant with and for the benefit of the Protected Partners not to undertake any transfer of all or substantially all of the assets of either entity (whether by merger, transfer, spin-off or otherwise) unless the transferee has acknowledged in writing and agreed in writing to be bound by this Agreement, provided that the foregoing shall not be deemed to permit any transaction otherwise prohibited by this Agreement.

 

8.4 Modification; Waiver . No failure or delay on the part of any Party in exercising any power or right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such right or power, or any abandonment or discontinuance of steps to enforce such a right or power, preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right or power. The rights and remedies of the Parties are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies which they would otherwise have. No modification or waiver of any provision of this Agreement, nor consent to any departure by any Party therefrom, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the purpose for which given. No notice to or demand on any Party in any case shall entitle such Party to any other or further notice or demand in similar or other circumstances.

 

8.5 Representations and Warranties Regarding Authority; Noncontravention . Each of the REIT and the Partnership has the requisite corporate or other (as the case may be) power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its respective obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by each of the REIT and the Partnership and the performance of each of its respective obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all necessary trust, partnership, or other (as the case may be) action on the part of each of the REIT and the Partnership. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by each of the REIT and the Partnership and constitutes a valid and binding obligation of each of the REIT and the Partnership, enforceable against each of the REIT and the Partnership in accordance with its terms, except as such enforcement may be limited by (i) applicable bankruptcy or insolvency laws (or other laws affecting creditors’ rights generally) or (ii) general principles of equity. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by each of the REIT and the Partnership do not, and the performance by each of its respective obligations hereunder will not, conflict with, or result in any violation of (i) the Partnership Agreement or (ii) any other agreement applicable to the REIT and/or the Partnership, other than, in the case of clause (ii), any such conflicts or violations that would not materially adversely affect the performance by the Partnership and the REIT of their obligations hereunder.

 

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8.6 Captions . The Article and Section headings contained in this Agreement are inserted for convenience of reference only, shall not be deemed to be a part of this Agreement for any purpose, and shall not in any way define or affect the meaning, construction or scope of any of the provisions hereof.

 

8.7 Notices . All notices and other communications given or made pursuant hereto shall be in writing, shall be deemed to have been duly given or made as of the date delivered, mailed or transmitted, and shall be effective upon receipt, if delivered personally, mailed by registered or certified mail (postage prepaid, return receipt requested) to the Parties at the following addresses (or at such other address for a Party as shall be specified by like changes of address) or sent by electronic transmission to the telecopier number specified below:

 

(a) if to the REIT, to:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: President

 

(b) if to the Partnership, to:

 

Postal Realty LP

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: General Partner

 

(c) if to a Protected Partner, to the address on file with the Partnership.

 

Each Party may designate by notice in writing a new address to which any notice, demand, request or communication may thereafter be so given, served or sent. Each notice, demand, request, or communication which shall be hand delivered, sent, mailed, telecopied or telexed in the manner described above, or which shall be delivered to a telegraph company, shall be deemed sufficiently given, served, sent, received or delivered for all purposes at such time as it is delivered to the addressee (with the return receipt, the delivery receipt, or (with respect to a telecopy or telex) the answerback being deemed conclusive, but not exclusive, evidence of such delivery) or at such time as delivery is refused by the addressee upon presentation.

 

8.8 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and each of which shall be deemed an original.

 

8.9 Governing Law . The interpretation and construction of this Agreement, and all matters relating thereto, shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the choice of law provisions thereof.

 

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8.10 Consent to Jurisdiction; Enforceability .

 

(a) This Agreement and the duties and obligations of the Parties shall be enforceable against any of the other Parties in the courts of the State of New York. For such purpose, each Party and the Protected Partners hereby irrevocably submits to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of such courts and agrees that all claims in respect of this Agreement may be heard and determined in any of such courts.

 

(b) Each Party hereby irrevocably agrees that a final judgment of any of the courts specified above in any action or proceeding relating to this Agreement shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law.

 

8.11 Severability . If any part of any provision of this Agreement shall be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, such part shall be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability only, without in any way affecting the remaining parts of such provision or the remaining provisions of this Agreement.

 

8.12 Costs of Disputes . Except as otherwise expressly set forth in this Agreement, the nonprevailing Party in any dispute arising hereunder shall bear and pay the costs and expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by the prevailing Party or Parties in connection with resolving such dispute.

 

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Agreement to be signed by their respective officers, general partners, or delegates thereunto duly authorized all as of the date first written above.

 

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.,    
a Maryland corporation    
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek    
  Name: Andrew Spodek    
  Title: Chief Executive Officer    
       
POSTAL REALTY LP,    
a Delaware limited partnership    
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek    
  Name: Andrew Spodek    
  Title: CEO of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.,    
  as general partner of Postal Realty LP    
       
ANDREW SPODEK    
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek    
       
TAYAKA HOLDINGS, LLC    
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek    
  Name: Andrew Spodek    
  Title: Sole Member    
       
IDJ HOLDINGS, LLC    
       
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek    
  Name: Andrew Spodek    
  Title: Sole Member    

 

Signature Page for Tax Protection Agreement with Andrew Spodek

 

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Schedule 2.1(a)

 

List of Protected Partners

 

Andrew Spodek, including Tayaka Holdings, LLC and IDJ Holdings, LLC as disregarded entities of Andrew Spodek

 

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Schedule 2.1(b)**

 

Gain Limitation Properties

Estimated Closing Date Protected Gain for Protected Partners

Section 704(c) Value to be used in computing Protected Gain

 

Gain Limitation Property  

Estimated Closing Date

Protected Gain

  Section 704(c) Value

Auburn, MA - MPO

60 Auburn St.
Auburn, MA 01501

       

Butterfield, MN - MPO*

105 2nd Street N
Butterfield, MN 56120

       

Camden, OH - MPO

32 W Central Ave

Camden, OH 45311

       

Cedar Bluff, AL - MPO

3390 Grove Street

Cedar Bluff, AL 35959

       

Cincinnati, OH - Taft Branch

7350 Montgomery Rd.

Cincinnati, OH 45236

       

Denver, PA - MPO*

101 Snyder St.

Denver, PA 17517

       
Detroit, MI - P & DC Warehouse SP EMG
1550 W FORT ST
Detroit, MI 48216-1960
       

Dillsburg, PA - MPO*

30 N Baltimore St.

Dillsburg, PA 17019

       

East Weymouth, MA - MPO

1377 Commercial St.
East Weymouth, MA 02189

       

Fairview, OK - MPO

115 W Broadway

Fairview, OK 73737

       

Fulda, MN - MPO*
109 N Baltimore Avenue

Fulda, MN 56151

       
Galena, AK - MPO
511 Galena Rd
Galena, AK 99741-9800
       

Glen Rock, PA - MPO*

201 Church St.
Glen Rock, PA 17327

       

 

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La Grange, MO - MPO
202 N Main Street
La Grange, MO 63448
     

Marinette, WI - MPO

2016 -30 Maple Ave.

Marinette, WI 54143

       

Maynard, MA - MPO

142 Main St.
Maynard, MA 01754

       

Middleburg, PA - MPO*

9 N Main St.
Middleburg, PA 17842

       

Milwaukee, WI - Bay View Station

1603 E Oklahoma Ave.

Milwaukee, WI 53207

       

Milwaukee, WI - Harbor Station

1416 S. 11th St.
Milwaukee, WI 53204

       

Milwaukee, WI - Parklawn Station

3931 N 35th St.
Milwaukee, WI 53216

       

Mountain Lake, MN - MPO*

211 10th Street N
Mountain Lake, MN 56159

       

Nescopeck, PA - MPO

311 Broad St.
Nescopeck, PA 18635

       

North Quincy, MA - MPO (Retail)

454 Hancock St.
North Quincy, MA 02171

       

North Weymouth, MA - MPO

53 Sea St.
North Weymouth, MA 02191

       

Norwood, OH - MPO

4515 Allison Street

Norwood, OH 45212

       

Portland, MI - MPO

235 N Lincoln St.

Portland, MI 48875

       

Reynoldsville, PA - MPO

350 E. Main Street
Reynoldsville, PA 15851

       

Rittman, OH - MPO

100 N Main St.

Rittman, OH 44270

       
Saint Ann, MO - MPO
10401 International Plaza
Dr. Saint Ann, MO 63074
       

Sharon, MA - MPO
15 S Main St.
Sharon, MA 02067

       

 

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Shelbina, MO - MPO

107 E Chestnut Street

Shelbina, MO 63468

     

Shepherd, MI - MPO

101 N 2nd St.
Shepherd, MI 48883

       

Spirit Lake, IA - MPO

1513 Hill Avenue

Spirit Lake, IA 51630

       

Stevens Point, WI - MPO

1320 Main St.
Stevens Point, WI 54481

       

Trimont, MN - MPO

1 Main Street E

Trimont, MN 56176

       

Williamsburg, PA - MPO

234 High St.
Williamsburg, PA 16693

       
Woodbury, TN - MPO
203 W High St
Woodbury, TN 37190-9998
       

 

** The parties hereto will endeavor in good faith to complete this schedule within 75 days after the Closing Date.

 

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Schedule 3.2(a)**

 

Minimum Liability Amount

 

Protected Partner   Minimum Liability Amount
Andrew Spodek    

 

** The parties hereto will endeavor in good faith to complete this schedule within 75 days after the Closing Date.

 

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Schedule 3.2(b)

 

Form of Guaranty

 

GUARANTEE

 

This Guarantee is made and entered into as of the ____ day of ____________ 2019, by the persons listed on Exhibit A annexed hereto (the “ Guarantors ”) for the benefit of the Lender set forth on Exhibit B annexed hereto and made a part hereof (the “ Lender ,” which term shall include any person or entity who hereafter holds the Note (as defined below) in accordance with the terms thereof).

 

This Form of the Guarantee Agreement is for Guaranteed Debt where the following conditions all are applicable:

 

(i) there are no other guarantees or any similar contractual or statutory obligations in effect with respect to such Guaranteed Debt;
   
(ii) the collateral securing such Guaranteed Debt is not collateral for any other indebtedness that is senior to or pari passu with such Guaranteed Debt;
   
(iii) no additional guarantees with respect to such Guaranteed Debt will be entered into during the applicable Tax Protection Period;
   
(iv) there are no indemnities, reimbursement arrangements, or similar arrangements that would reimburse the Guarantor in the event Guarantor must perform under the Guarantee;
   
(v) the lender with respect to such Guaranteed Debt is not the Partnership, any Subsidiary or other entity in which the Partnership owns a direct or indirect interest, the REIT, any other partner in the Partnership, or any person related to any partner in the Partnership as determined for purposes of Treasury Regulations Section 1.752-2; and
   
(vi) none of the REIT, nor any other partner in the Partnership, nor any person related to any partner in the Partnership as determined for purposes of Treasury Regulations Section 1.752-2 shall have provided, or shall thereafter provide, collateral for, or otherwise shall have entered, or thereafter shall enter, into a relationship that would cause such person or entity to be considered to bear risk of loss with respect to such Guaranteed Debt, as determined for purposes of Treasury Regulations Section 1.752-2.

 

If, and to the extent that, one or more of these conditions is not applicable, appropriate changes to the attached Form of Guaranty will be required in order to cause the various conditions set forth in Article 3 of the Tax Protection Agreement to be satisfied.

 

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RECITALS

 

WHEREAS, the Lender has loaned to the borrower set forth on Exhibit B (the “ Borrower ”) the amount set forth opposite such Lender’s name on Exhibit B , which loan (i) is evidenced by the promissory note described on Exhibit C hereto (the “ Note ”), (ii) has a current outstanding balance in the amount set forth on Exhibit B annexed hereto, and (iii) is secured by a mortgage or deed of trust on the collateral described on Exhibit D annexed hereto (the “ Deed of Trust ,” with the property and other assets securing such Deed of Trust referred to as the “ Collateral ”);

 

WHEREAS, the Borrower is either Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”), or a subsidiary of the Partnership in which the Partnership owns a [___]% or greater interest and which is either a tax-disregarded entity or an entity taxed under subchapter K of the Internal Revenue Code;

 

WHEREAS, the Guarantors are limited partners in the Partnership; and

 

WHEREAS, the Guarantors are executing and delivering this Guarantee to guarantee a portion of the Borrower’s payments with respect to the Note, subject to and otherwise in accordance with the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.

 

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing recitals and facts and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and legal sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, each of the Guarantors hereby agree as follows:

 

1. Guarantee and Performance of Payment .

 

(a) The Guarantors hereby irrevocably and unconditionally guarantee the collection by the Lender of, and hereby agree to pay to the Lender upon demand (following (1) foreclosure of the Deed of Trust, exercise of the powers of sale thereunder and/or acceptance by the Lender of a deed to the Collateral in lieu of foreclosure, and (2) the exhaustion of the exercise of any and all remedies available to the Lender against the Borrower, including, without limitation, realizing upon the assets of the Borrower other than the Collateral against which the Lender may have recourse), an amount equal to the vertical slice percentage (the “ Vertical Slice Percentage ”) listed next to Guarantor’s name on Exhibit A multiplied by the excess, if any, of the outstanding balance under the Note over the Lender Proceeds (as hereinafter defined). Each Guarantor’s aggregate obligation under this Guarantee shall be limited to the maximum guarantee amount (the “ Maximum Guarantee Amount ”) calculated on Exhibit A attached hereto next to such Guarantor’s name. The Guarantors’ obligations as set forth in this Paragraph 1(a) are hereinafter referred to as the “ Guaranteed Obligations .”

 

(b) For the purposes of this Guarantee, the term “ Lender Proceeds ” shall mean the aggregate of (i) the Foreclosure Proceeds (as hereinafter defined) plus (ii) all amounts collected by the Lender from the Borrower (other than payments of principal, interest or other amounts required to be paid by the Borrower to Lender under the terms of the Note that are paid by the Borrower to the Lender at a time when no default has occurred under the Note and is continuing) or realized by the Lender from the sale of assets of the Borrower other than the Collateral.

 

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(c) For the purposes of this Guarantee, the term “ Foreclosure Proceeds ” shall have the applicable meaning set forth below with respect to the Collateral:

 

1. If at least one bona fide third party unrelated to the Lender (and including, without limitation, any of the Guarantors) bids for such Collateral at a sale thereof, conducted upon foreclosure of the related Deed of Trust or exercise of the power of sale thereunder, Foreclosure Proceeds shall mean the highest amount bid for such Collateral by the party that acquires title thereto (directly or through a nominee) at or pursuant to such sale. For the purposes of determining such highest bid, amounts bid for the Collateral by the Lender shall be taken into account notwithstanding the fact that such bids may constitute credit bids which offset against the amount due to the Lender under the Note.

 

2. If there is no such unrelated third-party at such sale of the Collateral so that the only bidder at such sale is the Lender or its designee, the Foreclosure Proceeds shall be deemed to be fair market value (the “ Fair Market Value ”) of the Collateral as of the date of the foreclosure sale, as such Fair Market Value shall be mutually agreed upon by the Lender and the Guarantor or determined pursuant to Paragraph 1(d).

 

3. If the Lender receives and accepts a deed to the Collateral in lieu of foreclosure in partial satisfaction of the Borrower’s obligations under the Note, the Foreclosure Proceeds shall be deemed to be the Fair Market Value of such Collateral as of the date of delivery of the deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, as such Fair Market Value shall be mutually agreed upon by the Lender and the Guarantor or determined pursuant to Paragraph 1(d).

 

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(d) Fair Market Value of the Collateral (or any item thereof) shall be the price at which a willing seller not compelled to sell would sell such Collateral, and a willing buyer not compelled to buy would purchase such Collateral, free and clear of all mortgages but subject to all leases and reciprocal easements and operating agreements. If the Lender and the Guarantor are unable to agree upon the Fair Market Value of any Collateral in accordance with Paragraphs 1(c)(2) or 1(c)(3) above, as applicable, within twenty (20) days after the date of the foreclosure sale or the delivery of the deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, as applicable, relating to such Collateral, either party may have the Fair Market Value of such Collateral determined by appraisal by appointing an appraiser having the qualifications set forth below to determine the same and by notifying the other party of such appointment within twenty (20) days after the expiration of such twenty (20) day period. If the other party shall fail to notify the first party, within twenty (20) days after its receipt of notice of the appointment by the first party, of the appointment by the other party of an appraiser having the qualifications set forth below, the appraiser appointed by the first party shall alone make the determination of such Fair Market Value. Appraisers appointed by the parties shall be members of the Appraisal Institute (MAI) and shall have at least ten years’ experience in the valuation of properties similar to the Collateral being valued in the greater metropolitan area in which such Collateral is located. If each party shall appoint an appraiser having the aforesaid qualifications and if such appraisers cannot, within thirty (30) days after the appointment of the second appraiser, agree upon the determination hereinabove required, then they shall select a third appraiser which third appraiser shall have the aforesaid qualifications, and if they fail so to do within forty (40) days after the appointment of the second appraiser they shall notify the parties hereto, and either party shall thereafter have the right, on notice to the other, to apply for the appointment of a third appraiser to the chapter of the American Arbitration Association or its successor organization located in the metropolitan area in which the Collateral is located or to which the Collateral is proximate or if no such chapter is located in such metropolitan area, in the metropolitan area closest to the Collateral in which such a chapter is located. Each appraiser shall render its decision as to the Fair Market Value of the Collateral in question within thirty (30) days after the appointment of the third appraiser and shall furnish a copy thereof to the Lender and the Guarantor. The Fair Market Value of the Collateral shall then be calculated as the average of (i) the Fair Market Value determined by the third appraiser and (ii) whichever of the Fair Market Values determined by the first two appraisers is closer to the Fair Market Value determined by the third appraiser; provided, however, that if the Fair Market Value determined by the third appraiser is higher or lower than both Fair Market Values determined by the first two appraisers, such Fair Market Value determined by the third appraiser shall be disregarded and the Fair Market Value of the Collateral shall then be calculated as the average of the Fair Market Value determined by the first two appraisers. The Fair Market Value of a Property, as so determined, shall be binding and conclusive upon the Lender and the Guarantors. Guarantors shall bear the cost of its own appraiser and, subject to Paragraph 1(e), shall bear all reasonable costs of appointing, and the expenses of, any other appraiser appointed pursuant to this Paragraph 1(d).

 

(e) Notwithstanding anything in the preceding subparagraphs of this Paragraph 1, in no event shall the aggregate amount required to be paid pursuant to this Guarantee by any Guarantor with respect to all defaults under the Note and the Deed of Trust securing the obligations thereunder exceed the Maximum Guarantee Amount.

 

(f) In confirmation of the foregoing, and without limitation, the Lender must first exhaust all of its rights and remedies against all property of the Borrower as to which the Lender has (or may have) a right of recourse, including, without limitation, the institution and prosecution to completion of appropriate foreclosure proceedings under the Deed of Trust, before exercising any right or remedy or making any claim, under this Guarantee.

 

(g) The obligations under this Guarantee shall be personal to each Guarantor and shall not be affected by any transfer of all or any part of a Guarantor’s interests in the Partnership; provided, however, that if a Guarantor has disposed of all of its equity interests in the Partnership, the obligations of such Guarantor under this Guarantee shall terminate 12 months after the date of such disposition (the “Termination Date”) provided (i) the Guarantor notifies the Lender that it is terminating its obligations under this Guarantee as of the Termination Date and (ii) the fair market value of the Collateral exceeds the outstanding balance of the Note, including accrued and unpaid interest, as of the Termination Date. Further, no Guarantor shall have the right to recover from the Borrower any amounts such Guarantor pays pursuant to this Guarantee (except and only to the extent that the amount paid to the Lender by such Guarantor exceeds the amount required to be paid by such Guarantor under the terms of this Guarantee).

 

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(h) The obligations of any Guarantor who is an individual as a Guarantor hereunder shall terminate with respect to such Guarantor one week after the death of such Guarantor if, as a result of the death of such Guarantor, all property held by the Guarantor on the date of death would have a basis for federal income tax purposes equal to the fair market value of such property on such date (unless a later date were to be elected by the executor of the Guarantor’s estate in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code).

 

2. Intent to Benefit Lender . This Guarantee is expressly for the benefit of the Lender. The Guarantors intend that the Lender shall have the right to enforce the obligations of the Guarantors hereunder separately and independently of the Borrower, subject to the provisions of Paragraph 1 hereof, without any requirement whatsoever of resort by the Lender to any other party. The Lender’s rights to enforce the obligations of the Guarantors hereunder are material elements of this Guarantee. This Guarantee shall not be modified, amended or terminated (other than as specifically provided herein) without the written consent of the Lender. The Borrower shall furnish a copy of this Guarantee to the Lender contemporaneously with its execution.

 

3. Waivers . Each Guarantor intends to bear the ultimate economic responsibility for the payment hereof of the Guaranteed Obligations to the extent set forth in Paragraph 1 above. Pursuant to such intent:

 

(a) Except as expressly set forth in Paragraph 1 above, each Guarantor expressly waives any right (pursuant to any law, rule, arrangement or relationship) to compel the Lender, or any subsequent holder of the Note or any beneficiary of the Deed of Trust to sue or enforce payment thereof or pursue any other remedy in the power of the Borrower, the Lender or any subsequent holder of the Note or any beneficiary of the Deed of Trust whatsoever, and failure of the Borrower or the Lender or any subsequent holder of the Note or any beneficiary of the Deed of Trust to do so shall not exonerate, release or discharge a Guarantor from its absolute unconditional obligations under this Guarantee. Each Guarantor hereby binds and obligates itself, and its permitted successors and assignees, for performance of the Guaranteed Obligations according to the terms hereof, whether or not the Guaranteed Obligations or any portion thereof are valid now or hereafter enforceable against the Borrower or shall have been incurred in compliance with any of the conditions applicable thereto, subject, however, in all respects to the limitations set forth in Paragraph 1.

 

(b) Each Guarantor expressly waives any right (pursuant to any law, rule, arrangement, or relationship) to compel any other person (including, but not limited to, the Borrower, the Partnership, any subsidiary of the Partnership or the Borrower, or any other partner or affiliate of the Partnership or the Borrower) to reimburse or indemnify such Guarantor for all or any portion of amounts paid by such Guarantor pursuant to this Guarantee to the extent such amounts do not exceed the amounts required to be paid by such Guarantor pursuant to paragraph 1 hereof (taking into account the limitations set forth therein).

 

25

 

 

(c) Except as expressly set forth in Paragraph 1 above, if and only to the extent that the Borrower has made similar waivers under the Note or the Deed of Trust, each Guarantor expressly waives: (i) the defense of the statute of limitations in any action hereunder or for the collection or performance of the Note or the Deed of Trust; (ii) any defense that may arise by reason of: the incapacity, or lack of authority of the Borrower, the revocation or repudiation hereof by such Guarantor, the revocation or repudiation of the Note or the Deed of Trust by the Borrower, the failure of the Lender to file or enforce a claim against the estate (either in administration, bankruptcy or any other proceeding) of the Borrower; the unenforceability in whole or in part of the Note, the Deed of Trust or any other document or instrument related thereto; the Lender’s election, in any proceeding by or against the Borrower under the federal Bankruptcy Code, of the application of Section 1111(b)(2) of the federal Bankruptcy Code; or any borrowing or grant of a security interest under Section 364 of the federal Bankruptcy Code; (iii) presentment, demand for payment, protest, notice of discharge, notice of acceptance of this Guarantee or occurrence of, or any default in connection with, the Note or the Deed of Trust, and indulgences and notices of any other kind whatsoever, including, without limitation, notice of the disposition of any collateral for the Note; (iv) any defense based upon an election of remedies (including, if available, an election to proceed by non-judicial foreclosure) or other action or omission by the Lender or any other person or entity which destroys or otherwise impairs any indemnification, contribution or subrogation rights of such Guarantor or the right of such Guarantor, if any, to proceed against the Borrower for reimbursement, or any combination thereof; (v) subject to Paragraph 4 below, any defense based upon any taking, modification or release of any collateral or guarantees for the Note, or any failure to create or perfect any security interest in, or the taking of or failure to take any other action with respect to any collateral securing payment or performance of the Note; (vi) any rights or defenses based upon any right to offset or claimed offset by such Guarantor against any indebtedness or obligation now or hereafter owed to such Guarantor by the Borrower; or (vii) any rights or defenses based upon any rights or defenses of the Borrower to the Note or the Deed of Trust (including, without limitation, the failure or value of consideration, any statute of limitations, accord and satisfaction, and the insolvency of the Borrower); it being intended, except as expressly set forth in Paragraph 1 above, that such Guarantor shall remain liable hereunder, to the extent set forth herein, notwithstanding any act, omission or thing which might otherwise operate as a legal or equitable discharge of any of such Guarantor or of the Borrower.

 

4. Amendment of Note and Deed of Trust . Without in any manner limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Lender or any subsequent holder of the Note or beneficiary of the Deed of Trust may, from time to time, without notice to or consent of the Guarantors, agree to any amendment, waiver, modification or alteration of the Note or the Deed of Trust relating to the Borrower and its rights and obligations thereunder (including, without limitation, renewal, waiver or variation of the maturity of the indebtedness evidenced by the Note, increase or reduction of the rate of interest payable under the Note, release, substitution or addition of any Guarantor or endorser and acceptance or release of any security for the Note), it being understood and agreed by the Lender, however, that the Guarantor’s obligations hereunder are subject, in all events, to the limitations set forth in Paragraph 1; provided that (i) in the event that the Lender consents to the release of any Collateral securing the Note pursuant to the Deed of Trust, the Guaranteed Amount shall be reduced by the Fair Market Value of such Collateral on the date of such release (determined as set forth in Paragraph 1(d)); and (ii) upon any material change to the Note or the Deed of Trust, including, without limitation, the maturity date or the interest rate of the Note, or upon any release or substitution of any Collateral securing the Note, within thirty (30) days of any Guarantor’s receipt of actual notice of such event, subject to the following sentence, such Guarantor may elect to terminate such Guarantor’s obligations under this Guarantee by written notice to the Lender. Such termination shall take effect on the 31st day following such actual notice, provided that no default under the Guaranteed Obligation has occurred and is then continuing.

 

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5. Termination of Guarantee . Subject to Paragraph 4, this Guarantee is irrevocable as to any and all of the Guaranteed Obligations.

 

6. Independent Obligations . Except as expressly set forth in Paragraph 1, the obligations of each Guarantor hereunder are independent of the obligations of the Borrower, and a separate action or actions may be brought by a Lender against the Guarantors, whether or not actions are brought against the Borrower. Each Guarantor expressly waives any and all rights of subrogation, reimbursement, indemnity, exoneration, contribution or any other claim which such Guarantor may now or hereafter have against the Borrower, or any other person directly or contingently liable for the payment or performance of the Note and the Deed of Trust arising from the existence or performance of this Guarantee (including, but not limited to, the Partnership, Postal Realty Trust, Inc., or any other partner of the Partnership) (except and only to the extent that a Guarantor makes a payment to the Lender in excess of the amount required to be paid under Paragraph 1 and the limitations set forth therein).

 

7. Net Worth Representation . The Guarantor hereby represents and warrants that it has sufficient net worth (excluding the value of its equity interests in the Partnership) to satisfy the Aggregate Guarantee Liability as of the date hereof and hereby agrees to maintain a sufficient net worth to satisfy the Aggregate Guarantee Liability as of any relevant date of determination until the obligations of Borrower for principal and interest now or hereafter existing under the Guaranteed Obligations shall have been paid.

 

8. Understanding With Respect to Waivers . Each Guarantor warrants and represents that each of the waivers set forth above are made with full knowledge of their significance and consequences, and that under the circumstances, the waivers are reasonable and not contrary to public policy or law. If any of said waivers are determined to be contrary to any applicable law or public policy, such waiver shall be effective only to the maximum extent permitted by law.

 

9. No Assignment . No Guarantor shall be entitled to assign his or her rights or obligations under this Guarantee to any other person without the written consent of the Lender.

 

10. Entire Agreement . The parties agree that this Guarantee contains the entire understanding and agreement between them with respect to the subject matter hereof and cannot be amended, modified or superseded, except by an agreement in writing signed by the parties.

 

27

 

 

11. Notices . Any notice given pursuant to this Guarantee shall be in writing and shall be deemed given when delivered personally, or sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, as follows:

 

If to the Partnership:

 

Postal Realty LP

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: Jeremy Garber

 

or to such other address with respect to which notice is subsequently provided in the manner set forth above; and

 

If to a Guarantor, to the address set forth on Exhibit A hereto, or to such other address with respect to which notice is subsequently provided in the manner set forth above.

 

12. Applicable Law . This Guarantee shall be governed by, interpreted under and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York without reference to its choice of law provisions.

 

13. Consent to Jurisdiction, Enforceability .

 

(a) This Guarantee and the duties and obligations of the parties hereto shall be enforceable against each Guarantor in the courts of the State of New York. For such purpose, each Guarantor hereby irrevocably submits to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of such courts and agrees that all claims in respect of this Guarantee may be heard and determined in any of such courts.

 

(b) Each Guarantor hereby irrevocably agrees that a final judgment of any of the courts specified above in any action or proceeding relating to this Guarantee shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law.

 

14. Condition of Borrower . Each Guarantor is fully aware of the financial condition of the Borrower and is executing and delivering this Guarantee based solely upon its own independent investigation of all matters pertinent hereto and is not relying in any manner upon any representation or statement of the Lender or the Borrower. Each Guarantor represents and warrants that it is in a position to obtain, and hereby assumes full responsibility for obtaining, any additional information concerning the Borrower’s financial conditions and any other matter pertinent hereto as it may desire, and it is not relying upon or expecting the Lender to furnish to it any information now or hereafter in the Lender’s possession concerning the same. By executing this Guarantee, each Guarantor knowingly accepts the full range of risks encompassed within a contract of this type, which risks it acknowledges.

 

15. Expenses . Each Guarantor agrees that, promptly after receiving Lender’s notice therefor, such Guarantor shall reimburse Lender, subject to the limitation set forth in Paragraph 1(e) and to the extent that such reimbursement is not made by Borrower, for all reasonable expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys fees and disbursements) incurred by Lender in connection with the collection of the Guaranteed Obligations or any portion thereof or with the enforcement of this Guarantee.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned Guarantors set forth on Exhibit A hereto have executed this Guarantee as of the date first set forth above.

 

  GUARANTORS SET FORTH ON EXHIBIT A HERETO:
     
  By:                

 

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Exhibit A to Guarantee

 

Name and Address   Vertical Slice       Maximum
of Partner Guarantors   Percentage   Loan Amount   Guaranty Amount
[                          ]   [__]   [__]   [__]

 

30

 

Exhibit B to Guarantee

 

    Date of and Principal   Debt Balance as of  
Name of Lender   Name of Borrower   Amount of Loan   __/__/__   Guaranteed Amount
                 
                 

 

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Exhibit C to Guarantee

 

Summary of Principal Terms of Note [or attach copy of Note]

 

32

 

 

Exhibit D to Guarantee

 

Identification of Deed of Trust and

Brief Summary Description of Collateral

 

33

Exhibit 10.18

   

TAX PROTECTION AGREEMENT

 

THIS TAX PROTECTION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made and entered into as of May 14, 2019 by and among Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”), Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “REIT”), and the sole general partner of the Partnership, and Nationwide Postal Management Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation, as contributor (the “Contributor”) (together with the Partnership and the REIT, the “ Parties ”).

 

WHEREAS, the Contributor, pursuant to that certain Contribution Agreement, dated the date hereof, by and among the Contributor and the Partnership (the “ Contribution Agreement ”) are contributing limited liability company interests (the “ Contribution ”), in the Entity (as defined below), to the Partnership in exchange for common units of limited partnership interest in the Partnership (“ OP Units ”);

 

WHEREAS, it is intended for federal income tax purposes that the Contribution for OP Units will be treated as a tax-deferred contribution of the interests in the Entities, or the Properties (as defined below), in the case of any Entities that are disregarded as separate from a Contributor for federal income tax purposes, to the Partnership for OP Units under Section 721 of the Code;

 

WHEREAS, in consideration for the agreement of the Contributor to make the Contribution, the Parties desire to enter into this Agreement regarding certain tax matters as set forth herein; and

 

WHEREAS, the REIT and the Partnership desire to evidence their agreement regarding amounts that may be payable in the event of certain actions being taken by the Partnership regarding the disposition of certain of the Properties held within the Entities, and regarding certain minimum debt obligations of the Partnership and its subsidiaries.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and the mutual representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained herein and in the Contribution Agreement, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS

 

To the extent not otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used in this Agreement have the meanings ascribed to them in the Partnership Agreement (as defined below).

 

Accounting Firm ” has the meaning set forth in the Section 4.2 .

 

Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Book Gain ” means any gain that would not be required under Section 704(c) of the Code and the applicable regulations to be specially allocated to the Protected Partners for federal income tax purposes (for example, any gain attributable to appreciation in the actual value of the Gain Limitation Property following the Closing Date or any gain resulting from reductions in the “book value” of the Gain Limitation Property following the Closing Date).

 

 

 

  

Cash Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a).

 

Closing Date ” means the date on which the Contribution will be effective.

 

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. “ Contribution” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Contribution Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Entity ” means each limited liability company in which the Contributor is contributing its limited liability company interests as described in the Preamble and as set forth next to each Gain Limitation Property on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto.

 

Final Determination ” means (i) a decision, judgment, decree or other order by any court of competent jurisdiction, which decision, judgment, decree or other order has become final after all allowable appeals by either party to the action have been exhausted or after the time for filing such appeals has expired, (ii) a binding settlement agreement entered into in connection with an administrative or judicial proceeding (iii) the expiration of the time for instituting a claim for refund, or if such a claim was filed, the expiration of the time for instituting suit with respect thereto or (iv) the expiration of the time for instituting suit with respect to a claimed deficiency.

 

Gain Limitation Property ” means (i) each property or asset identified on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto as a Gain Limitation Property; (ii) any direct or indirect interest owned by the Partnership in any entity that owns an interest in a Gain Limitation Property, if the disposition of that interest would result in the recognition of Protected Gain by a Protected Partner; and (iii) any other property that the Partnership directly or indirectly receives that is in whole or in part a “substituted basis property” as defined in Section 7701(a)(42) of the Code with respect to a Gain Limitation Property.

 

Indirect Owner ” means, in the case of a Protected Partner that is an entity that is classified as a partnership, disregarded entity or subchapter S corporation or real estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes, any person owning an equity interest in such Protected Partner, and in the case of any Indirect Owner that itself is an entity that is classified as a partnership, disregarded entity, subchapter S corporation or real estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes, any person owning an equity interest in such entity.

 

Notice Period ” means the period commencing on May 14, 2029, and ending May 14, 2031, provided, however, that the Notice Period shall terminate at such time as such Protected Partner has disposed of 100% of the OP units received upon the Contribution in one or more taxable transactions.

 

OP Units ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Parties ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

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Partnership ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Partnership Agreement ” means the Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Partnership, dated as of May 14, 2019, as amended, and as the same may be further amended in accordance with the terms thereof.

 

Partnership Interest Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a) .

 

Property ” or “ Properties ” means the real property assets or other assets of an Entity.

 

Protected Gain ” shall mean the gain that would be allocable to and recognized by a Protected Partner for federal income tax purposes under Section 704(c) of the Code in the event of the sale of a Gain Limitation Property in a fully taxable transaction. The initial amount of Protected Gain with respect to each Protected Partner shall be determined as if the Partnership sold each Gain Limitation Property in a fully taxable transaction on the Closing Date for consideration equal to the Section 704(c) Value of such Gain Limitation Property on the Closing Date, and is set forth on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto. After the Closing Date, Protected Gain shall be reduced from time to time to reflect reductions in the “book-tax disparity” with respect to each Property in accordance with Treasury Regulations § 1.704-3 as provided in Article 5 below. Book Gain shall not be considered Protected Gain.

 

Protected Partner ” means the Contributor and any person who (i) acquires OP Units from a Protected Partner in a transaction in which gain or loss is not recognized in whole or in part and in which such transferee’s adjusted basis for federal income tax purposes is determined in whole or in part by reference to the adjusted basis of the Protected Partner in such OP Units, (ii) has notified the Partnership of its status as a Protected Partner and (iii) provides all documentation reasonably requested by the Partnership to verify such status, but excludes any person that ceases to be a Protected Partner pursuant to this Agreement.

 

Section 704(c) Value ” means the fair market value of any Gain Limitation Property as of the Closing Date, as determined by the Partnership and as set forth next to each Gain Limitation Property on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto. The Partnership shall initially carry the Gain Limitation Property on its books at a value equal to the Section 704(c) Value as set forth on Schedule 2.1(b).

 

Subsidiary ” means any entity in which the Partnership owns a direct or indirect interest that owns a Gain Limitation Property on the Closing Date or that thereafter is a successor to the Partnership’s direct or indirect interests in a Gain Limitation Property.

 

Successor Partnership ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(b).

 

Tax Protection Period ” means the period commencing on the Closing Date and ending at 12:01 AM on May 14, 2029, provided, however, that with respect to a Protected Partner, the Tax Protection Period shall terminate at such time as (i) such Protected Partner has disposed of one hundred percent (100%) of the OP Units received on the Contribution in one or more taxable transactions or (ii) there is a Final Determination that no portion of the Contribution qualified for tax-deferred treatment under Section 721 of the Code.

 

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ARTICLE 2

RESTRICTIONS ON DISPOSITIONS OF
GAIN LIMITATION PROPERTIES

 

2.1 Restrictions on Disposition of Gain Limitation Properties.

 

(a)  The Partnership agrees for the benefit of each Protected Partner, for the term of the Tax Protection Period, not to directly or indirectly sell, exchange, transfer, or otherwise dispose of a Gain Limitation Property or any interest therein, without regard to whether such disposition is voluntary or involuntary, in a transaction that would cause any Protected Partner to recognize any Protected Gain.

 

Without limiting the foregoing, the term “sale, exchange, transfer or disposition” by the Partnership shall be deemed to include, and the prohibition shall extend to:

 

(i) any direct or indirect disposition by any direct or indirect Subsidiary of any Gain Limitation Property or any interest therein;

 

(ii) any direct or indirect disposition by the Partnership of any Gain Limitation Property (or any direct or indirect interest therein) that is subject to Section 704(c)(1)(B) of the Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder; and

 

(iii) any distribution by the Partnership to a Protected Partner that is subject to Section 737 of the Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder.

 

Without limiting the foregoing, a disposition shall include any transfer, voluntary or involuntary, by the Partnership or any Subsidiary in a foreclosure proceeding, pursuant to a deed in lieu of foreclosure, or in a bankruptcy proceeding.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 2.1 shall not apply to a voluntary, actual disposition by a Protected Partner of OP Units in connection with a merger or consolidation of the Partnership pursuant to which (1) the Protected Partner is offered as consideration for the OP Units either cash or property treated as cash pursuant to Section 731 of the Code (“Cash Consideration”) or partnership interests and the receipt of such partnership interests would not result in the recognition of gain for federal income tax purposes by the Protected Partner (“Partnership Interest Consideration”); (2) the Protected Partner has the right to elect to receive solely Partnership Interest Consideration in exchange for his OP Units, and the continuing partnership has agreed in writing to assume the obligations of the Partnership under this Agreement; (3) no Protected Gain is recognized by the Partnership as a result of any partner of the Partnership receiving Cash Consideration; and (4) the Protected Partner elects or is deemed to elect to receive solely Cash Consideration.

 

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(b) Notwithstanding the restriction set forth in this Section 2.1, the Partnership and any Subsidiary may dispose of any Gain Limitation Property (or any interest therein) if such disposition qualifies as a “like-kind exchange” under Section 1031 of the Code, or an involuntary conversion under Section 1033 of the Code, or other transaction (including, but not limited to, a contribution of property to any entity that qualifies for the non-recognition of gain under Section 721 or Section 351 of the Code, or a merger or consolidation of the Partnership with or into another entity that qualifies for taxation as a “partnership” for federal income tax purposes (a “ Successor Partnership”)) that, as to each of the foregoing, does not result in the recognition of any taxable income or gain to any Protected Partner with respect to any of the OP Units; provided, however, that in the case of a “like-kind exchange” under Section 1031 of the Code, if such exchange is with a “related party” within the meaning of Section 1031(f)(3) of the Code, any direct or indirect disposition by such related party of the Gain Limitation Property or any other transaction prior to the expiration of the two (2) year period following such exchange that would cause Section 1031(f)(1) of the Code to apply with respect to such Gain Limitation Property (including by reason of the application of Section 1031(f)(4) of the Code) shall be considered a violation of this Section 2.1 by the Partnership.

 

ARTICLE 3

 

[Reserved]

 

ARTICLE 4

REMEDIES FOR BREACH

 

4.1 Monetary Damages. In the event that the Partnership breaches its obligations set forth in Article 2 with respect to a Protected Partner, the Protected Partner’s sole remedy shall be to receive from the Partnership, and the Partnership shall pay to such Protected Partner as damages, an amount equal to the aggregate federal, state, and local income taxes incurred by the Protected Partner or an Indirect Owner with respect to the Protected Gain that is allocable to such Protected Partner under the Partnership Agreement as a result of the disposition of the Gain Limitation Property. In addition, the Partnership shall pay to the Protected Partner or Indirect Owner an amount equal to the aggregate federal, state, and local income taxes payable by the Protected Partner or Indirect Owner as a result of the receipt of any payment required under this Section 4.1.

 

For purposes of computing the amount of federal, state, and local income taxes required to be paid by a Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner), (i) any deduction for state income taxes payable as a result thereof actually allowed in computing federal income taxes shall be taken into account, and (ii) a Protected Partner’s (or Indirect Owner’s) tax liability shall be computed using the highest federal, state and local marginal income tax rates (plus the tax rate on net investment income, if applicable) that would be applicable to such Protected Partner’s (or Indirect Owner’s) taxable income (taking into account the character and type of such income or gain) for the year with respect to which the taxes must be paid, without regard to any deductions, losses or credits that may be available to such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) that would reduce or offset its actual taxable income or actual tax liability if such deductions, losses or credits could be utilized by the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) to offset other income, gain or taxes of the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner), either in the current year, in earlier years, or in later years.

 

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4.2 Process for Determining Damages. If the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 (or a Protected Partner asserts that the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2), the Partnership and the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) agree to negotiate in good faith to resolve any disagreements regarding any such breach or violation and the amount of damages, if any, payable to such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) under Section 4.1. If any such disagreement cannot be resolved by the Partnership and such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) within sixty (60) days after the receipt of notice from the Partnership of such breach and the amount of income to be recognized by reason thereof (or, if applicable, receipt by the Partnership of an assertion by a Protected Partner that the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2), the Partnership and the Protected Partner shall jointly retain a nationally recognized independent public accounting firm (an “ Accounting Firm”) to act as an arbitrator to resolve as expeditiously as possible all points of any such disagreement (including, without limitation, whether a breach of any of the covenants set forth in Article 2, has occurred and, if so, the amount of damages to which the Protected Partner is entitled as a result thereof, determined as set forth in Section 4.1). The Partnership and the Protected Partner shall cooperate with the Accounting Firm and shall furnish the Accounting Firm with all information reasonably requested by the Accounting Firm. All determinations made by the Accounting Firm with respect to the resolution of any breach or violation of any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 and the amount of damages payable to the Protected Partner under Section 4.1 shall be final, conclusive and binding on the Partnership and the Protected Partner. The fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be shared equally by the Partnership and the Protected Partner, provided that if the amount determined by the Accounting Firm to be owed by the Partnership to the Protected Partner is more than five percent (5%) higher than the amount proposed by the Partnership to be owed to such Protected Partner prior to the submission of the matter to the Accounting Firm, then all of the fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be paid by the Partnership and if the amount determined by the Accounting Firm to be owed by the Partnership to the Protected Partner is more than five percent (5%) less than the amount proposed by the Partnership to be owed to such Protected Partner prior to the submission of the matter to the Accounting Firm, then all of the fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be paid by the Protected Partner.

 

4.3 Required Notices; Time for Payment. In the event that there has been a breach of Article 2, the Partnership shall provide to each affected Protected Partner notice of the transaction or event giving rise to such breach not later than at such time as the Partnership provides to the Protected Partners the IRS Schedule K-1’s to the Partnership’s federal income tax return for the year of such transaction. All payments required to be made under this Article 4 to any Protected Partner shall be made to such Protected Partner on or before April 15 of the year following the year in which the gain recognition event giving rise to such payment took place; provided that, if the Protected Partner is required to make estimated tax payments that would include such gain (taking into account all available safe harbors), the Partnership shall make a payment to the Protected Partner on or before the due date for such estimated tax payment and such payment from the Partnership shall be in an amount that corresponds to the amount of the estimated tax being paid by such Protected Partner at such time as a result of the gain recognition event, which payment shall be credited against the total amount payable under this Article 4. In the event of a payment made after the date required pursuant to this Section 4.3, interest shall accrue on the aggregate amount required to be paid from such date to the date of actual payment at a rate equal to the “prime rate” of interest, as published in the Wall Street Journal (or if no longer published there, an equivalent publication) effective as of the date the payment is required to be made.

 

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ARTICLE 5

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL GAIN LIMITATION PROPERTY DURING
NOTICE PERIOD

 

During the Notice Period, if the Partnership intends to dispose of a Gain Limitation Property in a taxable transaction, the Partnership shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide at least 90 days’ prior written notice (prior to the closing of such disposition) to the Protected Partners.

 

ARTICLE 6

SECTION 704(C) METHOD AND ALLOCATIONS

 

Notwithstanding any provision of the Partnership Agreement, the Partnership shall use the “traditional method” under Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-3(b) for purposes of making all allocations under Section 704(c) of the Code with respect to any Gain Limitation Property.

 

ARTICLE 7

AMENDMENT OF THIS AGREEMENT; WAIVER OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS

 

7.1  Amendment. This Agreement may not be amended, directly or indirectly (including by reason of a merger between either the Partnership or the REIT and another entity) except by a written instrument signed by the REIT, the Partnership, and each of the Protected Partners to be subject to such amendment, except that the Partnership may amend Schedule 2.1(a) upon a person becoming a Protected Partner as a result of a transfer of OP Units.

 

7.2 Waiver. Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon written request by the Partnership, each Protected Partner, in its sole discretion, may waive the payment of any damages or indemnification amount that is otherwise payable to such Protected Partner pursuant to Article 4 hereof. Such a waiver shall be effective only if obtained in writing from the affected Protected Partner.

 

ARTICLE 8

MISCELLANEOUS

 

8.1 Additional Actions and Documents. Each of the Parties hereby agrees to take or cause to be taken such further actions, to execute, deliver, and file or cause to be executed, delivered and filed such further documents, and will obtain such consents, as may be necessary or as may be reasonably requested in order to fully effectuate the purposes, terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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8.2 Assignment. No Party shall assign its or his rights or obligations under this Agreement, in whole or in part, except by operation of law, without the prior written consent of the other Parties, and any such assignment contrary to the terms hereof shall be null and void and of no force and effect.

 

8.3 Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the Protected Partners and their respective successors and permitted assigns, whether so expressed or not. This Agreement shall be binding upon the REIT, the Partnership, and any entity that is a direct or indirect successor, whether by merger, transfer, spin-off or otherwise, to all or substantially all of the assets of either the REIT or the Partnership (or any prior successor thereto as set forth in the preceding portion of this sentence), provided that none of the foregoing shall result in the release of liability of the REIT and the Partnership hereunder. The REIT and the Partnership covenant with and for the benefit of the Protected Partners not to undertake any transfer of all or substantially all of the assets of either entity (whether by merger, transfer, spin-off or otherwise) unless the transferee has acknowledged in writing and agreed in writing to be bound by this Agreement, provided that the foregoing shall not be deemed to permit any transaction otherwise prohibited by this Agreement.

 

8.4 Modification; Waiver. No failure or delay on the part of any Party in exercising any power or right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such right or power, or any abandonment or discontinuance of steps to enforce such a right or power, preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right or power. The rights and remedies of the Parties are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies which they would otherwise have. No modification or waiver of any provision of this Agreement, nor consent to any departure by any Party therefrom, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the purpose for which given. No notice to or demand on any Party in any case shall entitle such Party to any other or further notice or demand in similar or other circumstances.

 

8.5 Representations and Warranties Regarding Authority; Noncontravention. Each of the REIT and the Partnership has the requisite corporate or other (as the case may be) power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its respective obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by each of the REIT and the Partnership and the performance of each of its respective obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all necessary trust, partnership, or other (as the case may be) action on the part of each of the REIT and the Partnership. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by each of the REIT and the Partnership and constitutes a valid and binding obligation of each of the REIT and the Partnership, enforceable against each of the REIT and the Partnership in accordance with its terms, except as such enforcement may be limited by (i) applicable bankruptcy or insolvency laws (or other laws affecting creditors’ rights generally) or (ii) general principles of equity. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by each of the REIT and the Partnership do not, and the performance by each of its respective obligations hereunder will not, conflict with, or result in any violation of (i) the Partnership Agreement or (ii) any other agreement applicable to the REIT and/or the Partnership, other than, in the case of clause (ii), any such conflicts or violations that would not materially adversely affect the performance by the Partnership and the REIT of their obligations hereunder.

 

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8.6 Captions. The Article and Section headings contained in this Agreement are inserted for convenience of reference only, shall not be deemed to be a part of this Agreement for any purpose, and shall not in any way define or affect the meaning, construction or scope of any of the provisions hereof.

 

8.7 Notices. All notices and other communications given or made pursuant hereto shall be in writing, shall be deemed to have been duly given or made as of the date delivered, mailed or transmitted, and shall be effective upon receipt, if delivered personally, mailed by registered or certified mail (postage prepaid, return receipt requested) to the Parties at the following addresses (or at such other address for a Party as shall be specified by like changes of address) or sent by electronic transmission to the telecopier number specified below:

 

(a) if to the REIT, to:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: President

 

(b) if to the Partnership, to:

 

Postal Realty LP

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: General Partner

 

(c) if to a Protected Partner, to the address on file with the Partnership.

 

Each Party may designate by notice in writing a new address to which any notice, demand, request or communication may thereafter be so given, served or sent. Each notice, demand, request, or communication which shall be hand delivered, sent, mailed, telecopied or telexed in the manner described above, or which shall be delivered to a telegraph company, shall be deemed sufficiently given, served, sent, received or delivered for all purposes at such time as it is delivered to the addressee (with the return receipt, the delivery receipt, or (with respect to a telecopy or telex) the answerback being deemed conclusive, but not exclusive, evidence of such delivery) or at such time as delivery is refused by the addressee upon presentation.

 

8.8  Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and each of which shall be deemed an original.

 

8.9 Governing Law. The interpretation and construction of this Agreement, and all matters relating thereto, shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the choice of law provisions thereof.

 

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8.10 Consent to Jurisdiction; Enforceability.

 

(a) This Agreement and the duties and obligations of the Parties shall be enforceable against any of the other Parties in the courts of the State of New York. For such purpose, each Party and the Protected Partners hereby irrevocably submits to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of such courts and agrees that all claims in respect of this Agreement may be heard and determined in any of such courts.

 

(b) Each Party hereby irrevocably agrees that a final judgment of any of the courts specified above in any action or proceeding relating to this Agreement shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law.

 

8.11 Severability. If any part of any provision of this Agreement shall be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, such part shall be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability only, without in any way affecting the remaining parts of such provision or the remaining provisions of this Agreement.

 

8.12 Costs of Disputes. Except as otherwise expressly set forth in this Agreement, the nonprevailing Party in any dispute arising hereunder shall bear and pay the costs and expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by the prevailing Party or Parties in connection with resolving such dispute.

 

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Agreement to be signed by their respective officers, general partners, or delegates thereunto duly authorized all as of the date first written above.

 

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.,
a Maryland corporation
 
     
By: /s/ Andrew Spodek  
Name: Andrew Spodek  
Title: Chief Executive Officer  
     
POSTAL REALTY LP,  
a Delaware limited partnership  
     
By: Postal Realty Trust, Inc., its general partner  
     
By: /s/ Andrew Spodek  
Name: Andrew Spodek  
Title: Chief Executive Officer  
     
NATIONWIDE POSTAL MANAGEMENT HOLDINGS, INC., a Delaware corporation  
     
By: /s/ Andrew Spodek  
Name: Andrew Spodek  
Title: Sole Shareholder  

 

Signature Page for Tax Protection Agreement with Nationwide Postal Management Holdings, Inc.

   

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Schedule 2.1(a)

 

List of Protected Partners

 

Nationwide Postal Management Holdings, Inc.

 

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Schedule 2.1(b)**

 

Gain Limitation Properties

Estimated Closing Date Protected Gain for Protected Partners Section 704(c) Value to be used in computing Protected Gain

 

 

Gain Limitation Property

Estimated Closing Date
Protected Gain
Section 704(c) Value
Third party management contracts (and pursuant to clause (iii) of the definition of Gain Limitation Property, the equity of Postal Realty Management TRS, LLC) 1    

 

** The parties hereto will endeavor in good faith to complete this schedule within 75 days after the Closing Date.

 

 

 

 

 

1 For the avoidance of doubt, any third party management contracts contributed by Postal Realty LP to a corporation can be sold by that corporation without regard to this Agreement.

 

 

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Exhibit 10.19

 

TAX PROTECTION AGREEMENT

 

THIS TAX PROTECTION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made and entered into as of May 14, 2019 by and among Postal Realty LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”), Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “REIT”), and the sole general partner of the Partnership, and Unlimited Postal Holdings LP, a Texas limited partnership, as contributor (the “ Contributor ”) (together with the Partnership and the REIT, the “ Parties ”).

 

WHEREAS, the Contributor, pursuant to that certain Contribution Agreement, dated the date hereof, by and among the Contributor and the Partnership (the “ Contribution Agreement ”) are contributing limited liability company interests (the “ Contribution ”), in each Entity (as defined below), to the Partnership in exchange for common units of limited partnership interest in the Partnership (“OP Units”);

 

WHEREAS, it is intended for federal income tax purposes that the Contribution for OP Units will be treated as a tax-deferred contribution of the interests in the Entities, or the Properties (as defined below), in the case of any Entities that are disregarded as separate from a Contributor for federal income tax purposes, to the Partnership for OP Units under Section 721 of the Code;

 

WHEREAS, in consideration for the agreement of the Contributor to make the Contribution, the Parties desire to enter into this Agreement regarding certain tax matters as set forth herein; and

 

WHEREAS, the REIT and the Partnership desire to evidence their agreement regarding amounts that may be payable in the event of certain actions being taken by the Partnership regarding the disposition of certain of the Properties held within the Entities, and regarding certain minimum debt obligations of the Partnership and its subsidiaries.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and the mutual representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained herein and in the Contribution Agreement, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE 1
DEFINITIONS

 

To the extent not otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used in this Agreement have the meanings ascribed to them in the Partnership Agreement (as defined below).

 

Accounting Firm ” has the meaning set forth in the Section 4.2.

 

Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Book Gain ” means any gain that would not be required under Section 704(c) of the Code and the applicable regulations to be specially allocated to the Protected Partners for federal income tax purposes (for example, any gain attributable to appreciation in the actual value of the Gain Limitation Property following the Closing Date or any gain resulting from reductions in the “book value” of the Gain Limitation Property following the Closing Date).

 

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Cash Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a) .

 

Closing Date ” means the date on which the Contribution will be effective.

 

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 

Contribution ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Contribution Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Entity ” means each limited liability company in which the Contributor is contributing its limited liability company interests as described in the Preamble and as set forth next to each Gain Limitation Property on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto.

 

Final Determination ” means (i) a decision, judgment, decree or other order by any court of competent jurisdiction, which decision, judgment, decree or other order has become final after all allowable appeals by either party to the action have been exhausted or after the time for filing such appeals has expired, (ii) a binding settlement agreement entered into in connection with an administrative or judicial proceeding (iii) the expiration of the time for instituting a claim for refund, or if such a claim was filed, the expiration of the time for instituting suit with respect thereto or (iv) the expiration of the time for instituting suit with respect to a claimed deficiency.

 

Gain Limitation Property ” means (i) each property or asset identified on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto as a Gain Limitation Property; (ii) any direct or indirect interest owned by the Partnership in any entity that owns an interest in a Gain Limitation Property, if the disposition of that interest would result in the recognition of Protected Gain by a Protected Partner; and (iii) any other property that the Partnership directly or indirectly receives that is in whole or in part a “substituted basis property” as defined in Section 7701(a)(42) of the Code with respect to a Gain Limitation Property.

 

Indirect Owner ” means, in the case of a Protected Partner that is an entity that is classified as a partnership, disregarded entity or subchapter S corporation or real estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes, any person owning an equity interest in such Protected Partner, and in the case of any Indirect Owner that itself is an entity that is classified as a partnership, disregarded entity, subchapter S corporation or real estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes, any person owning an equity interest in such entity.

 

Notice Period ” means the period commencing on May 14, 2029, and ending May 14, 2031, provided, however, that the Notice Period shall terminate at such time as such Protected Partner has disposed of 100% of the OP units received upon the Contribution in one or more taxable transactions.

 

OP Units ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

 

Parties ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

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Partnership ” has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.

 

Partnership Agreement ” means the Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Partnership, dated as of May 14, 2019, as amended, and as the same may be further amended in accordance with the terms thereof.

 

Partnership Interest Consideration ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(a) .

 

Property ” or “ Properties ” means the real property assets or other assets of an Entity.

 

Protected Gain ” shall mean the gain that would be allocable to and recognized by a Protected Partner for federal income tax purposes under Section 704(c) of the Code in the event of the sale of a Gain Limitation Property in a fully taxable transaction. The initial amount of Protected Gain with respect to each Protected Partner shall be determined as if the Partnership sold each Gain Limitation Property in a fully taxable transaction on the Closing Date for consideration equal to the Section 704(c) Value of such Gain Limitation Property on the Closing Date, and is set forth on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto. After the Closing Date, Protected Gain shall be reduced from time to time to reflect reductions in the “book-tax disparity” with respect to each Property in accordance with Treasury Regulations § 1.704-3 as provided in Article 5 below. Book Gain shall not be considered Protected Gain.

 

Protected Partner ” means the Contributor and any person who (i) acquires OP Units from a Protected Partner in a transaction in which gain or loss is not recognized in whole or in part and in which such transferee’s adjusted basis for federal income tax purposes is determined in whole or in part by reference to the adjusted basis of the Protected Partner in such OP Units, (ii) has notified the Partnership of its status as a Protected Partner and (iii) provides all documentation reasonably requested by the Partnership to verify such status, but excludes any person that ceases to be a Protected Partner pursuant to this Agreement.

 

Section 704(c) Value ” means the fair market value of any Gain Limitation Property as of the Closing Date, as determined by the Partnership and as set forth next to each Gain Limitation Property on Schedule 2.1(b) hereto. The Partnership shall initially carry the Gain Limitation Property on its books at a value equal to the Section 704(c) Value as set forth on Schedule 2.1(b).

 

Subsidiary ” means any entity in which the Partnership owns a direct or indirect interest that owns a Gain Limitation Property on the Closing Date or that thereafter is a successor to the Partnership’s direct or indirect interests in a Gain Limitation Property.

 

Successor Partnership ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1(b) .

 

Tax Protection Period ” means the period commencing on the Closing Date and ending at 12:01 AM on May 14, 2029, provided, however, that with respect to a Protected Partner, the Tax Protection Period shall terminate at such time as (i) such Protected Partner has disposed of one hundred percent (100%) of the OP Units received on the Contribution in one or more taxable transactions or (ii) there is a Final Determination that no portion of the Contribution qualified for tax-deferred treatment under Section 721 of the Code.

 

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ARTICLE 2

RESTRICTIONS ON DISPOSITIONS OF
GAIN LIMITATION PROPERTIES

 

2.1  Restrictions on Disposition of Gain Limitation Properties .

 

(a) The Partnership agrees for the benefit of each Protected Partner, for the term of the Tax Protection Period, not to directly or indirectly sell, exchange, transfer, or otherwise dispose of a Gain Limitation Property or any interest therein, without regard to whether such disposition is voluntary or involuntary, in a transaction that would cause any Protected Partner to recognize any Protected Gain.

 

Without limiting the foregoing, the term “sale, exchange, transfer or disposition” by the Partnership shall be deemed to include, and the prohibition shall extend to:

 

(i) any direct or indirect disposition by any direct or indirect Subsidiary of any Gain Limitation Property or any interest therein;

 

(ii) any direct or indirect disposition by the Partnership of any Gain Limitation Property (or any direct or indirect interest therein) that is subject to Section 704(c)(1)(B) of the Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder; and

 

(iii) any distribution by the Partnership to a Protected Partner that is subject to Section 737 of the Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder.

 

Without limiting the foregoing, a disposition shall include any transfer, voluntary or involuntary, by the Partnership or any Subsidiary in a foreclosure proceeding, pursuant to a deed in lieu of foreclosure, or in a bankruptcy proceeding.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 2.1 shall not apply to a voluntary, actual disposition by a Protected Partner of OP Units in connection with a merger or consolidation of the Partnership pursuant to which (1) the Protected Partner is offered as consideration for the OP Units either cash or property treated as cash pursuant to Section 731 of the Code (“ Cash Consideration ”) or partnership interests and the receipt of such partnership interests would not result in the recognition of gain for federal income tax purposes by the Protected Partner (“ Partnership Interest Consideration ”); (2) the Protected Partner has the right to elect to receive solely Partnership Interest Consideration in exchange for his OP Units, and the continuing partnership has agreed in writing to assume the obligations of the Partnership under this Agreement; (3) no Protected Gain is recognized by the Partnership as a result of any partner of the Partnership receiving Cash Consideration; and (4) the Protected Partner elects or is deemed to elect to receive solely Cash Consideration.

 

(b) Notwithstanding the restriction set forth in this Section 2.1 , the Partnership and any Subsidiary may dispose of any Gain Limitation Property (or any interest therein) if such disposition qualifies as a “like-kind exchange” under Section 1031 of the Code, or an involuntary conversion under Section 1033 of the Code, or other transaction (including, but not limited to, a contribution of property to any entity that qualifies for the non-recognition of gain under Section 721 or Section 351 of the Code, or a merger or consolidation of the Partnership with or into another entity that qualifies for taxation as a “partnership” for federal income tax purposes (a “ Successor Partnership ”)) that, as to each of the foregoing, does not result in the recognition of any taxable income or gain to any Protected Partner with respect to any of the OP Units; provided, however, that in the case of a “like-kind exchange” under Section 1031 of the Code, if such exchange is with a “related party” within the meaning of Section 1031(f)(3) of the Code, any direct or indirect disposition by such related party of the Gain Limitation Property or any other transaction prior to the expiration of the two (2) year period following such exchange that would cause Section 1031(f)(1) of the Code to apply with respect to such Gain Limitation Property (including by reason of the application of Section 1031(f)(4) of the Code) shall be considered a violation of this Section 2.1 by the Partnership.

 

4

 

 

ARTICLE 3

 

[Reserved]

 

ARTICLE 4

REMEDIES FOR BREACH

 

4.1  Monetary Damages . In the event that the Partnership breaches its obligations set forth in Article 2 with respect to a Protected Partner, the Protected Partner’s sole remedy shall be to receive from the Partnership, and the Partnership shall pay to such Protected Partner as damages, an amount equal to the aggregate federal, state, and local income taxes incurred by the Protected Partner or an Indirect Owner with respect to the Protected Gain that is allocable to such Protected Partner under the Partnership Agreement as a result of the disposition of the Gain Limitation Property. In addition, the Partnership shall pay to the Protected Partner or Indirect Owner an amount equal to the aggregate federal, state, and local income taxes payable by the Protected Partner or Indirect Owner as a result of the receipt of any payment required under this Section 4.1.

 

For purposes of computing the amount of federal, state, and local income taxes required to be paid by a Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner), (i) any deduction for state income taxes payable as a result thereof actually allowed in computing federal income taxes shall be taken into account, and (ii) a Protected Partner’s (or Indirect Owner’s) tax liability shall be computed using the highest federal, state and local marginal income tax rates (plus the tax rate on net investment income, if applicable) that would be applicable to such Protected Partner’s (or Indirect Owner’s) taxable income (taking into account the character and type of such income or gain) for the year with respect to which the taxes must be paid, without regard to any deductions, losses or credits that may be available to such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) that would reduce or offset its actual taxable income or actual tax liability if such deductions, losses or credits could be utilized by the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) to offset other income, gain or taxes of the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner), either in the current year, in earlier years, or in later years.

 

5

 

   

4.2  Process for Determining Damages . If the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 (or a Protected Partner asserts that the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2), the Partnership and the Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) agree to negotiate in good faith to resolve any disagreements regarding any such breach or violation and the amount of damages, if any, payable to such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) under Section 4.1 . If any such disagreement cannot be resolved by the Partnership and such Protected Partner (or Indirect Owner) within sixty (60) days after the receipt of notice from the Partnership of such breach and the amount of income to be recognized by reason thereof (or, if applicable, receipt by the Partnership of an assertion by a Protected Partner that the Partnership has breached or violated any of the covenants set forth in Article 2), the Partnership and the Protected Partner shall jointly retain a nationally recognized independent public accounting firm (an “ Accounting Firm ”) to act as an arbitrator to resolve as expeditiously as possible all points of any such disagreement (including, without limitation, whether a breach of any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 , has occurred and, if so, the amount of damages to which the Protected Partner is entitled as a result thereof, determined as set forth in Section 4.1) . The Partnership and the Protected Partner shall cooperate with the Accounting Firm and shall furnish the Accounting Firm with all information reasonably requested by the Accounting Firm. All determinations made by the Accounting Firm with respect to the resolution of any breach or violation of any of the covenants set forth in Article 2 and the amount of damages payable to the Protected Partner under Section 4.1 shall be final, conclusive and binding on the Partnership and the Protected Partner. The fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be shared equally by the Partnership and the Protected Partner, provided that if the amount determined by the Accounting Firm to be owed by the Partnership to the Protected Partner is more than five percent (5%) higher than the amount proposed by the Partnership to be owed to such Protected Partner prior to the submission of the matter to the Accounting Firm, then all of the fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be paid by the Partnership and if the amount determined by the Accounting Firm to be owed by the Partnership to the Protected Partner is more than five percent (5%) less than the amount proposed by the Partnership to be owed to such Protected Partner prior to the submission of the matter to the Accounting Firm, then all of the fees and expenses of any Accounting Firm incurred in connection with any such determination shall be paid by the Protected Partner.

 

4.3 Required Notices; Time for Payment . In the event that there has been a breach of Article 2 , the Partnership shall provide to each affected Protected Partner notice of the transaction or event giving rise to such breach not later than at such time as the Partnership provides to the Protected Partners the IRS Schedule K-1’s to the Partnership’s federal income tax return for the year of such transaction. All payments required to be made under this Article 4 to any Protected Partner shall be made to such Protected Partner on or before April 15 of the year following the year in which the gain recognition event giving rise to such payment took place; provided that, if the Protected Partner is required to make estimated tax payments that would include such gain (taking into account all available safe harbors), the Partnership shall make a payment to the Protected Partner on or before the due date for such estimated tax payment and such payment from the Partnership shall be in an amount that corresponds to the amount of the estimated tax being paid by such Protected Partner at such time as a result of the gain recognition event, which payment shall be credited against the total amount payable under this Article 4 . In the event of a payment made after the date required pursuant to this Section 4.3 , interest shall accrue on the aggregate amount required to be paid from such date to the date of actual payment at a rate equal to the “prime rate” of interest, as published in the Wall Street Journal (or if no longer published there, an equivalent publication) effective as of the date the payment is required to be made.

 

6

 

 

ARTICLE 5

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL GAIN LIMITATION PROPERTY DURING
NOTICE PERIOD

 

During the Notice Period, if the Partnership intends to dispose of a Gain Limitation Property in a taxable transaction, the Partnership shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide at least 90 days’ prior written notice (prior to the closing of such disposition) to the Protected Partners.

 

ARTICLE 6

SECTION 704(C) METHOD AND ALLOCATIONS

 

Notwithstanding any provision of the Partnership Agreement, the Partnership shall use the “traditional method” under Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-3(b) for purposes of making all allocations under Section 704(c) of the Code with respect to any Gain Limitation Property.

 

ARTICLE 7

AMENDMENT OF THIS AGREEMENT; WAIVER OF CERTAIN PROVISIONS

 

7.1 Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended, directly or indirectly (including by reason of a merger between either the Partnership or the REIT and another entity) except by a written instrument signed by the REIT, the Partnership, and each of the Protected Partners to be subject to such amendment, except that the Partnership may amend Schedule 2.1(a) upon a person becoming a Protected Partner as a result of a transfer of OP Units.

 

7.2 Waiver . Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon written request by the Partnership, each Protected Partner, in its sole discretion, may waive the payment of any damages or indemnification amount that is otherwise payable to such Protected Partner pursuant to Article 4 hereof. Such a waiver shall be effective only if obtained in writing from the affected Protected Partner.

 

ARTICLE 8

MISCELLANEOUS

 

8.1 Additional Actions and Documents . Each of the Parties hereby agrees to take or cause to be taken such further actions, to execute, deliver, and file or cause to be executed, delivered and filed such further documents, and will obtain such consents, as may be necessary or as may be reasonably requested in order to fully effectuate the purposes, terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

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8.2 Assignment . No Party shall assign its or his rights or obligations under this Agreement, in whole or in part, except by operation of law, without the prior written consent of the other Parties, and any such assignment contrary to the terms hereof shall be null and void and of no force and effect.

 

8.3 Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the Protected Partners and their respective successors and permitted assigns, whether so expressed or not. This Agreement shall be binding upon the REIT, the Partnership, and any entity that is a direct or indirect successor, whether by merger, transfer, spin-off or otherwise, to all or substantially all of the assets of either the REIT or the Partnership (or any prior successor thereto as set forth in the preceding portion of this sentence), provided that none of the foregoing shall result in the release of liability of the REIT and the Partnership hereunder. The REIT and the Partnership covenant with and for the benefit of the Protected Partners not to undertake any transfer of all or substantially all of the assets of either entity (whether by merger, transfer, spin-off or otherwise) unless the transferee has acknowledged in writing and agreed in writing to be bound by this Agreement, provided that the foregoing shall not be deemed to permit any transaction otherwise prohibited by this Agreement.

 

8.4  Modification; Waiver . No failure or delay on the part of any Party in exercising any power or right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such right or power, or any abandonment or discontinuance of steps to enforce such a right or power, preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right or power. The rights and remedies of the Parties are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies which they would otherwise have. No modification or waiver of any provision of this Agreement, nor consent to any departure by any Party therefrom, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the purpose for which given. No notice to or demand on any Party in any case shall entitle such Party to any other or further notice or demand in similar or other circumstances.

 

8.5  Representations and Warranties Regarding Authority; Noncontravention . Each of the REIT and the Partnership has the requisite corporate or other (as the case may be) power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its respective obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by each of the REIT and the Partnership and the performance of each of its respective obligations hereunder have been duly authorized by all necessary trust, partnership, or other (as the case may be) action on the part of each of the REIT and the Partnership. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by each of the REIT and the Partnership and constitutes a valid and binding obligation of each of the REIT and the Partnership, enforceable against each of the REIT and the Partnership in accordance with its terms, except as such enforcement may be limited by (i) applicable bankruptcy or insolvency laws (or other laws affecting creditors’ rights generally) or (ii) general principles of equity. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by each of the REIT and the Partnership do not, and the performance by each of its respective obligations hereunder will not, conflict with, or result in any violation of (i) the Partnership Agreement or (ii) any other agreement applicable to the REIT and/or the Partnership, other than, in the case of clause (ii), any such conflicts or violations that would not materially adversely affect the performance by the Partnership and the REIT of their obligations hereunder.

 

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8.6  Captions . The Article and Section headings contained in this Agreement are inserted for convenience of reference only, shall not be deemed to be a part of this Agreement for any purpose, and shall not in any way define or affect the meaning, construction or scope of any of the provisions hereof.

 

8.7  Notices . All notices and other communications given or made pursuant hereto shall be in writing, shall be deemed to have been duly given or made as of the date delivered, mailed or transmitted, and shall be effective upon receipt, if delivered personally, mailed by registered or certified mail (postage prepaid, return receipt requested) to the Parties at the following addresses (or at such other address for a Party as shall be specified by like changes of address) or sent by electronic transmission to the telecopier number specified below:

 

(a) if to the REIT, to:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: President

 

(b) if to the Partnership, to:

 

Postal Realty LP

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Attention: General Partner

 

(c) if to a Protected Partner, to the address on file with the Partnership.

 

Each Party may designate by notice in writing a new address to which any notice, demand, request or communication may thereafter be so given, served or sent. Each notice, demand, request, or communication which shall be hand delivered, sent, mailed, telecopied or telexed in the manner described above, or which shall be delivered to a telegraph company, shall be deemed sufficiently given, served, sent, received or delivered for all purposes at such time as it is delivered to the addressee (with the return receipt, the delivery receipt, or (with respect to a telecopy or telex) the answerback being deemed conclusive, but not exclusive, evidence of such delivery) or at such time as delivery is refused by the addressee upon presentation.

 

8.8  Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, all of which shall be considered one and the same agreement and each of which shall be deemed an original.

 

8.9  Governing Law . The interpretation and construction of this Agreement, and all matters relating thereto, shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the choice of law provisions thereof.

 

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8.10 Consent to Jurisdiction; Enforceability .

 

(a) This Agreement and the duties and obligations of the Parties shall be enforceable against any of the other Parties in the courts of the State of New York. For such purpose, each Party and the Protected Partners hereby irrevocably submits to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of such courts and agrees that all claims in respect of this Agreement may be heard and determined in any of such courts.

 

(b) Each Party hereby irrevocably agrees that a final judgment of any of the courts specified above in any action or proceeding relating to this Agreement shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law.

 

8.11 Severability . If any part of any provision of this Agreement shall be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, such part shall be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability only, without in any way affecting the remaining parts of such provision or the remaining provisions of this Agreement.

 

8.12 Costs of Disputes . Except as otherwise expressly set forth in this Agreement, the nonprevailing Party in any dispute arising hereunder shall bear and pay the costs and expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by the prevailing Party or Parties in connection with resolving such dispute.

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Agreement to be signed by their respective officers, general partners, or delegates thereunto duly authorized all as of the first written above.

 

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.,

a Maryland corporation

 

By: /s/ Andrew Spodek  
Name: Andrew Spodek  
Title: Chief Executive Officer  

 

POSTAL REALTY LP,

a Delaware limited partnership

 

By: /s/ Andrew Spodek  
Name: Andrew Spodek  
Title: CEO of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.,  
  as general partner of Postal Realty LP  

 

UNLIMITED POSTAL HOLDINGS, LP

a Texas limited partnership

 

By: /s/ Andrew Spodek  
Name: Andrew Spodek  
Title: Partner  

 

 

Signature Page for Tax Protection Agreement with Unlimited Postal Holdings, LP

 

11

 

Schedule 2.1(a)

 

List of Protected Partners

 

Unlimited Postal Holdings LP

 

12

 

 

Schedule 2.1(b)**

 

Gain Limitation Properties

Estimated Closing Date Protected Gain for Protected Partners
Section 704(c) Value to be used in computing Protected Gain

 

Gain Limitation Property

  Estimated Closing Date
Protected Gain
  Section 704(c) Value

Corpus Christi, TX - Stonewall Mall Station

10515 Stonewall Blvd.

Corpus Christi, TX 78410

       

Dallas, TX - A Station
515 Centre St.

Dallas, TX 75208

       
Dallas, TX - A Station-Parking
512-516 Centre St.
Dallas, TX 75208
       
Lindale, TX - MPO
507 S Main St
Lindale, TX 75771
       

Muleshoe, TX - MPO
221 E3rd St.

Muleshoe, TX 79347

       
San Antonio, TX - Hackberry Station 2000 S. Hackberry St.
San Antonio, TX 78210
       

San Antonio, TX - Highland Hills Station

3918 Clark Drive

San Antonio, TX 78223

       
Sinton, TX - MPO
104 S San Patricio
Sinton, TX 78387
       

Westminster, TX - MPO
701 W Houston St

Westminster, TX 75485-999

       

 

** The parties hereto will endeavor in good faith to complete this schedule within 75 days after the Closing Date.

 

 

 

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Exhibit 10.21

 

INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

THIS INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the 17th day of May, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and Patrick Donahoe (“Indemnitee”).

 

WHEREAS, at the request of the Company, Indemnitee currently serves as a director of the Company and may, therefore, be subjected to claims, suits or proceedings arising as a result of such service;

 

WHEREAS, as an inducement to Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve in such capacity, the Company has agreed to indemnify Indemnitee and to advance expenses and costs incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any such claims, suits or proceedings, to the maximum extent permitted by law; and

 

WHEREAS, the parties by this Agreement desire to set forth their agreement regarding indemnification and advance of expenses;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement:

 

(a) “Change in Control” means a change in control of the Company occurring after the Effective Date of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or in response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement; provided, however, that, without limitation, such a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred if, after the Effective Date (i) any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 35% or more of the combined voting power of all of the Company’s then-outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors without the prior approval of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such person’s attaining such percentage interest; (ii) the Company is a party to a merger, consolidation, sale of assets, plan of liquidation or other reorganization not approved by at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors then in office, as a consequence of which members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such transaction or event constitute less than a majority of the Board of Directors thereafter; or (iii) at any time, a majority of the members of the Board of Directors are not individuals (A) who were directors as of the Effective Date or (B) whose election by the Board of Directors or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then in office who were directors as of the Effective Date or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved.

 

 

 

 

(b) “Corporate Status” means the status of a person as a present or former director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company. As a clarification and without limiting the circumstances in which Indemnitee may be serving at the request of the Company, service by Indemnitee shall be deemed to be at the request of the Company: (i) if Indemnitee serves or served as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (1) of which a majority of the voting power or equity interest is or was owned directly or indirectly by the Company or (2) the management of which is controlled directly or indirectly by the Company and (ii) if, as a result of Indemnitee’s service to the Company or any of its affiliated entities, Indemnitee is subject to duties to, or required to perform services for, an employee benefit plan or its participants or beneficiaries, including as a deemed fiduciary thereof.

 

(c) “Disinterested Director” means a director of the Company who is not and was not a party to the Proceeding in respect of which indemnification and/or advance of Expenses is sought by Indemnitee and has no financial stake in the outcome of the Proceeding or determination referred to in Section 10 hereof.

 

(d) “Effective Date” means the date set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

(e) “Expenses” means any and all reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and costs, retainers, court costs, arbitration and mediation costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, witness fees, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, federal, state, local or foreign taxes imposed on Indemnitee as a result of the actual or deemed receipt of any payments under this Agreement, ERISA excise taxes and penalties and any other disbursements or expenses incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in or otherwise participating in a Proceeding. Expenses shall also include Expenses incurred in connection with any appeal resulting from any Proceeding, including, without limitation, the premium for, security for and other costs relating to any cost bond, supersedeas bond or other appeal bond or its equivalent and any expenses incurred establishing a right of indemnification.

 

(f) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a member of a law firm, that is experienced in matters of corporation law and neither is, nor in the past five years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company or Indemnitee (or any major shareholder thereof) or any affiliate of either such party in any matter material to either such party (other than with respect to matters concerning Indemnitee under this Agreement or of other indemnitees under similar indemnification agreements), or (ii) any other party to or participant or witness in the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay fees and expenses of Independent Counsel.

 

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(g)“Proceeding” means any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing, claim, demand or discovery request or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought by or in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil (including intentional or unintentional tort claims), criminal, administrative or investigative (formal or informal) nature, including any appeal therefrom, except one pending or completed on or before the Effective Date, unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing by the Company and Indemnitee. If Indemnitee reasonably believes that a given situation may lead to or culminate in the institution of a Proceeding, such situation shall also be considered a Proceeding.

 

Section 2. Services by Indemnitee . Indemnitee serves or will serve in the capacity or capacities set forth in the first WHEREAS clause above. However, this Agreement shall not impose any independent obligation on Indemnitee or the Company to continue Indemnitee’s service to the Company. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any other entity) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 3. General . The Company shall indemnify, and advance Expenses to, Indemnitee (a) as provided in this Agreement and (b) otherwise to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law in effect on the Effective Date and as amended from time to time; provided, however, that no change in Maryland law shall have the effect of reducing the benefits available to Indemnitee hereunder based on Maryland law as in effect on the Effective Date. The rights of Indemnitee provided in this Section 3 shall include, without limitation, the rights set forth in the other sections of this Agreement, including any additional indemnification permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”), including, without limitation, Section 2-418 of the MGCL.

 

Section 4. Standard for Indemnification . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with any such Proceeding unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of Indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) Indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal Proceeding, Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

 

Section 5. Certain Limits on Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement (other than Section 6), Indemnitee shall not be entitled to:

 

(a) indemnification hereunder if the Proceeding was one by or in the right of the Company and Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable to the Company;

 

(b) indemnification hereunder if Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable on the basis that personal benefit in money, property or services was improperly received in any Proceeding charging improper personal benefit to Indemnitee, whether or not involving action in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status; or

 

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(c) indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder if the Proceeding was brought by Indemnitee, unless: (i) the Proceeding was brought to enforce indemnification under this Agreement, and then only to the extent in accordance with and as authorized by Section 12 of this Agreement, or (ii) the Company’s charter or Bylaws, a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors or an agreement approved by the Board of Directors to which the Company is a party expressly provide otherwise.

 

Section 6. Court-Ordered Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, a court of appropriate jurisdiction, upon application of Indemnitee and such notice as the court shall require, may order indemnification of Indemnitee by the Company in the following circumstances:

 

(a) if such court determines that Indemnitee is entitled to reimbursement under Section 2-418(d)(1) of the MGCL, the court shall order indemnification, in which case Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover the Expenses of securing such reimbursement; or

 

(b) if such court determines that Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances, whether or not Indemnitee (i) has met the standards of conduct set forth in Section 2-418(b) of the MGCL or (ii) has been adjudged liable for receipt of an improper personal benefit under Section 2-418(c) of the MGCL, the court may order such indemnification as the court shall deem proper without regard to any limitation on such court-ordered indemnification contemplated by Section 2-418(d)(2)(ii) of the MGCL.

 

Section 7. Indemnification for Expenses of an Indemnitee Who is Wholly or Partially Successful . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and without limiting any such provision, to the extent that Indemnitee was or is, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a party to (or otherwise becomes a participant in) any Proceeding and is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful, on the merits or otherwise, as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee under this Section 7 for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with each such claim, issue or matter, allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. For purposes of this Section 7 and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

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Section 8. Advance of Expenses for Indemnitee . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall, without requiring a preliminary determination of Indemnitee’s ultimate entitlement to indemnification hereunder, advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of Indemnitee in connection with such Proceeding. The Company shall make such advance of incurred Expenses within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advance from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding, which advance may be in the form of, in the reasonable discretion of Indemnitee (but without duplication), (a) payment of such Expenses directly to third parties on behalf of Indemnitee, (b) advance of funds to Indemnitee in an amount sufficient to pay such Expenses or (c) reimbursement to Indemnitee for Indemnitee’s payment of such Expenses. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee and shall include or be preceded or accompanied by a written affirmation by Indemnitee and a written undertaking by or on behalf of Indemnitee, in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of the execution thereof. To the extent that Expenses advanced to Indemnitee do not relate to a specific claim, issue or matter in the Proceeding, such Expenses shall be allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. The undertaking required by this Section 8 shall be an unlimited general obligation by or on behalf of Indemnitee and shall be accepted without reference to Indemnitee’s financial ability to repay such advanced Expenses and without any requirement to post security therefor.

 

Section 9. Indemnification and Advance of Expenses as a Witness or Other Participant . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee is or may be, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a witness or otherwise asked to participate in any Proceeding, whether instituted by the Company or any other person, and to which Indemnitee is not a party, Indemnitee shall be advanced and indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting any such advance or indemnification from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee. In connection with any such advance of Expenses, the Company may require Indemnitee to provide an undertaking and affirmation substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of execution thereof.

 

Section 10. Procedure for Determination of Entitlement to Indemnification .

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request, including therein or therewith such documentation and information as is reasonably available to Indemnitee and is reasonably necessary or appropriate to determine whether and to what extent Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification. Indemnitee may submit one or more such requests from time to time and at such time(s) as Indemnitee deems appropriate in Indemnitee’s sole discretion. The officer of the Company receiving any such request from Indemnitee shall, promptly upon receipt of such a request for indemnification, advise the Board of Directors in writing that Indemnitee has requested indemnification.

 

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(b) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 10(a) above, a determination, if required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement thereto shall promptly be made in the specific case: (i) if a Change in Control has occurred, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee, which Independent Counsel shall be selected by Indemnitee and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; or (ii) if a Change in Control has not occurred, (A) by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors or by the majority vote of a group of Disinterested Directors designated by the Disinterested Directors to make the determination, (B) if Independent Counsel has been selected by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL and approved by Indemnitee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee or (C) if so directed by the Board of Directors, by the stockholders of the Company, other than directors or officers who are parties to the Proceeding. If it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall make payment to Indemnitee within ten days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the person, persons or entity making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such person, persons or entity upon reasonable advance request any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary or appropriate to such determination in the discretion of the Board of Directors or Independent Counsel if retained pursuant to clause (ii)(B) of this Section 10(b). Any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the person, persons or entity making such determination shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company shall indemnify and hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

(c) The Company shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of Independent Counsel, if one is appointed.

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings .

 

(a) In making any determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, the person or persons (including any court having jurisdiction over the matter) making such determination shall presume that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 10(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of overcoming that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, does not create a presumption that Indemnitee did not meet the requisite standard of conduct described herein for indemnification.

 

(c) The knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any other director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or any other director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining any other right to indemnification under this Agreement.

 

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Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee .

 

(a) If (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement thatIndemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advance of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement within 60 days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification, (iv) payment of indemnification is not made pursuant to Sections 7 or 9 of this Agreement within ten days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor, or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to any other section of this Agreement or the charter or Bylaws of the Company is not made within ten days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication in an appropriate court located in the State of Maryland, or in any other court of competent jurisdiction, or, at Indemnitee’s option, in an arbitration conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (provided, however, that the Company and the Indemnitee agree to use reasonable efforts to ensure that the arbitrator makes a ruling in any such arbitration under this Section 12(a) within 60 days of the commencement of such arbitration), of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification or advance of Expenses. Indemnitee shall commence a proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not apply to a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under Section 7 of this Agreement. Except as set forth herein, the provisions of Maryland law (without regard to its conflicts of laws rules) shall apply to any such arbitration. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

(b) In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall be presumed to be entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be, under this Agreement and the Company shall have the burden of proving that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be. If Indemnitee commences a judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall not be required to reimburse the Company for any advances pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement until a final determination is made with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification (as to which all rights of appeal have been exhausted or lapsed). The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

(c) If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification that was not disclosed in connection with the determination.

 

(d) In the event that Indemnitee is successful in seeking, pursuant to this Section 12, a judicial adjudication of or an award in arbitration to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under, or to recover damages for breach of, this Agreement, Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover from the Company, and shall be indemnified by the Company for, any and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in such judicial adjudication or arbitration. If it shall be determined in such judicial adjudication or arbitration that Indemnitee is entitled to receive part but not all of the indemnification or advance of Expenses sought, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with such judicial adjudication or arbitration shall be appropriately prorated.

 

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(e) Interest shall be paid by the Company to Indemnitee at the maximum rate allowed to be charged for judgments under the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland for amounts which the Company pays or is obligated to pay for the period (i) commencing with either the tenth day after the date on which the Company was requested to advance Expenses in accordance with Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement or the 60 th day after the date on which the Company was requested to make the determination of entitlement to indemnification under Section 10(b) of this Agreement, as applicable, and (ii) ending on the date such payment is made to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 13. Defense of the Underlying Proceeding .

 

(a) Indemnitee shall notify the Company promptly in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, request or other document relating to any Proceeding which may result in the right to indemnification or the advance of Expenses hereunder and shall include with such notice a description of the nature of the Proceeding and a summary of the facts underlying the Proceeding. The failure to give any such notice shall not disqualify Indemnitee from the right, or otherwise affect in any manner any right of Indemnitee, to indemnification or the advance of Expenses under this Agreement unless the Company’s ability to defend in such Proceeding or to obtain proceeds under any insurance policy is materially and adversely prejudiced thereby, and then only to the extent the Company is thereby actually so prejudiced.

 

(b) Subject to the provisions of the last sentence of this Section 13(b) and of Section 13(c) below, the Company shall have the right to defend Indemnitee in any Proceeding which may give rise to indemnification hereunder; provided, however, that the Company shall notify Indemnitee of any such decision to defend within 15 days following receipt of notice of any such Proceeding under Section 13(a) above. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, consent to the entry of any judgment against Indemnitee or enter into any settlement or compromise with respect to Indemnitee which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, (ii) does not include, as an unconditional term thereof, the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding, which release shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Indemnitee, or (iii) would impose any Expense, judgment, fine, penalty or limitation on Indemnitee. This Section 13(b) shall not apply to a Proceeding brought by Indemnitee under Section 12 of this Agreement.

 

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(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13(b) above, if in a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, (i) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that Indemnitee may have separate defenses or counterclaims to assert with respect to any issue which may not be consistent with other defendants in such Proceeding, (ii) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that an actual or apparent conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest exists between Indemnitee and the Company, or (iii) if the Company fails to assume the defense of such Proceeding in a timely manner, Indemnitee shall be entitled to be represented by separate legal counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company. In addition, if the Company fails to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or in the event that the Company or any other person takes any action to declare this Agreement void or unenforceable, or institutes any Proceeding to deny or to recover from Indemnitee the benefits intended to be provided to Indemnitee hereunder, Indemnitee shall have the right to retain counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company (subject to Section 12(d) of this Agreement), to represent Indemnitee in connection with any such matter.

 

Section 14. Non-Exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Subrogation .

 

(a) The rights of indemnification and advance of Expenses as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the charter or Bylaws of the Company, any agreement or a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors, or otherwise. Unless consented to in writing by Indemnitee, no amendment, alteration or repeal of the charter or Bylaws of the Company, this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal, regardless of whether a claim with respect to such action or inaction is raised prior or subsequent to such amendment, alteration or repeal. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right or remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prohibit the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) In the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

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Section 15. Insurance .

 

(a) The Company will use its reasonable best efforts to acquire directors and officers liability insurance, on terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors, with the advice of counsel, covering Indemnitee or any claim made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status and covering the Company for any indemnification or advance of Expenses made by the Company to Indemnitee for any claims made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status. In the event of a Change in Control, the Company shall maintain in force any and all directors and officers liability insurance policies that were maintained by the Company immediately prior to the Change in Control for a period of six years with the insurance carrier or carriers and through the insurance broker in place at the time of the Change in Control; provided, however, (i) if the carriers will not offer the same policy and an expiring policy needs to be replaced, a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount shall be obtained and (ii) if any replacement insurance carrier is necessary to obtain a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount, such insurance carrier shall have an AM Best rating that is the same or better than the AM Best rating of the existing insurance carrier; provided, further, however, in no event shall the Company be required to expend in the aggregate in excess of 250% of the annual premium or premiums paid by the Company for directors and officers liability insurance in effect on the date of the Change in Control. In the event that 250% of the annual premium paid by the Company for such existing directors and officers liability insurance is insufficient for such coverage, the Company shall spend up to that amount to purchase such lesser coverage as may be obtained with such amount.

 

(b) Without in any way limiting any other obligation under this Agreement, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for any payment by Indemnitee which would otherwise be indemnifiable hereunder arising out of the amount of any deductible or retention and the amount of any excess of the aggregate of all judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding over the coverage of any insurance referred to in Section 15(a). The purchase, establishment and maintenance of any such insurance shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company or Indemnitee under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein, and the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and Indemnitee shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company under any such insurance policies. If, at the time the Company receives notice from any source of a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party or a participant (as a witness or otherwise) the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such Proceeding to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies.

 

(c) The Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Company or any insurance carrier of the Company with respect to any Proceeding.

 

Section 16. Coordination of Payments . The Company shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment of amounts otherwise indemnifiable or payable or reimbursable as Expenses hereunder if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such payment under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise.

 

Section 17. Contribution . If the indemnification provided in this Agreement is unavailable in whole or in part and may not be paid to Indemnitee for any reason, other than for failure to satisfy the standard of conduct set forth in Section 4 or due to the provisions of Section 5, then, with respect to any Proceeding in which the Company is jointly liable with Indemnitee (or would be if joined in such Proceeding), to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying and holding harmless Indemnitee, shall pay, in the first instance, the entire amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for Expenses, judgments, penalties, and/or amounts paid or to be paid in settlement, in connection with any Proceeding without requiring Indemnitee to contribute to such payment, and the Company hereby waives and relinquishes any right of contribution it may have at any time against Indemnitee.

 

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Section 18. Reports to Stockholders . To the extent required by the MGCL, the Company shall report in writing to its stockholders the payment of any amounts for indemnification of, or advance of Expenses to, Indemnitee under this Agreement arising out of a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company with the notice of the meeting of stockholders of the Company next following the date of the payment of any such indemnification or advance of Expenses or prior to such meeting.

 

Section 19. Duration of Agreement; Binding Effect .

 

(a) This Agreement shall continue until and terminate on the later of (i) the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company and (ii) the date that Indemnitee is no longer subject to any actual or possible Proceeding (including any rights of appeal thereto and any Proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement).

 

(b) The indemnification and advance of Expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Agreement shall be binding upon and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns (including any direct or indirect successor by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise to all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company), shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company, and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s spouse, assigns, heirs, devisees, executors and administrators and other legal representatives.

 

(c) The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

(d) The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement, at some later date, may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult to ascertain, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which Indemnitee may be entitled. Indemnitee shall further be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertakings in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that, in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by a court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of such a bond or undertaking.

 

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Section 20. Severability . If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 21. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, (delivery of which may be by facsimile, or via e-mail as a portable document format (.pdf) or other electronic format), each of which will be deemed to be an original, and it will not be necessary in making proof of this Agreement or the terms of this Agreement to produce or account for more than one such counterpart. One such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought shall be sufficient to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 22. Headings . The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 23. Modification and Waiver . No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by both of the parties hereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions hereof (whether or not similar) nor, unless otherwise expressly stated, shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

 

Section 24. Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, on the day of such delivery, or (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, to the address set forth on the signature page hereto.

 

(b) If to the Company, to:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

or to such other address as may have been furnished in writing to Indemnitee by the Company or to the Company by Indemnitee, as the case may be.

 

Section 25. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws rules.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS] 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name:  Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
   
  INDEMNITEE:
   
  /s/ Jeremy Garber
  Name: Jeremy Garber
  Address: 75 Columbia Ave, Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

AFFIRMATION AND UNDERTAKING TO REPAY EXPENSES ADVANCED

 

To: The Board of Directors of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

Re: Affirmation and Undertaking

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

This Affirmation and Undertaking is being provided pursuant to that certain Indemnification Agreement dated the _____ day of______________, 20____, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and the undersigned Indemnitee (the “Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which I am entitled to advance of Expenses in connection with [Description of Proceeding] (the “Proceeding”).

 

Terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings specified in the Indemnification Agreement.

 

I am subject to the Proceeding by reason of my Corporate Status or by reason of alleged actions or omissions by me in such capacity. I hereby affirm my good faith belief that at all times, insofar as I was involved as [a director] [and] [an officer] of the Company, in any of the facts or events giving rise to the Proceeding, I (1) did not act with bad faith or active or deliberate dishonesty, (2) did not receive any improper personal benefit in money, property or services and (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that any act or omission by me was unlawful.

 

In consideration of the advance by the Company for Expenses incurred by me in connection with the Proceeding (the “Advanced Expenses”), I hereby agree that if, in connection with the Proceeding, it is established that (1) an act or omission by me was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (a) was committed in bad faith or (b) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty or (2) I actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, I had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful, then I shall promptly reimburse the portion of the Advanced Expenses relating to the claims, issues or matters in the Proceeding as to which the foregoing findings have been established.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Affirmation and Undertaking on this ___ day of__________, 20____.

 

  Name:    

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.22

 

INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

THIS INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the 17th day of May, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and Anton Feingold (“Indemnitee”).

 

WHEREAS, at the request of the Company, Indemnitee currently serves as a director of the Company and may, therefore, be subjected to claims, suits or proceedings arising as a result of such service;

 

WHEREAS, as an inducement to Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve in such capacity, the Company has agreed to indemnify Indemnitee and to advance expenses and costs incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any such claims, suits or proceedings, to the maximum extent permitted by law; and

 

WHEREAS, the parties by this Agreement desire to set forth their agreement regarding indemnification and advance of expenses;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement:

 

(a) “Change in Control” means a change in control of the Company occurring after the Effective Date of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or in response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement; provided, however, that, without limitation, such a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred if, after the Effective Date (i) any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 35% or more of the combined voting power of all of the Company’s then-outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors without the prior approval of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such person’s attaining such percentage interest; (ii) the Company is a party to a merger, consolidation, sale of assets, plan of liquidation or other reorganization not approved by at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors then in office, as a consequence of which members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such transaction or event constitute less than a majority of the Board of Directors thereafter; or (iii) at any time, a majority of the members of the Board of Directors are not individuals (A) who were directors as of the Effective Date or (B) whose election by the Board of Directors or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then in office who were directors as of the Effective Date or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved.

 

 

 

 

(b) “Corporate Status” means the status of a person as a present or former director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company. As a clarification and without limiting the circumstances in which Indemnitee may be serving at the request of the Company, service by Indemnitee shall be deemed to be at the request of the Company: (i) if Indemnitee serves or served as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (1) of which a majority of the voting power or equity interest is or was owned directly or indirectly by the Company or (2) the management of which is controlled directly or indirectly by the Company and (ii) if, as a result of Indemnitee’s service to the Company or any of its affiliated entities, Indemnitee is subject to duties to, or required to perform services for, an employee benefit plan or its participants or beneficiaries, including as a deemed fiduciary thereof.

 

(c) “Disinterested Director” means a director of the Company who is not and was not a party to the Proceeding in respect of which indemnification and/or advance of Expenses is sought by Indemnitee and has no financial stake in the outcome of the Proceeding or determination referred to in Section 10 hereof.

 

(d) “Effective Date” means the date set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

(e) “Expenses” means any and all reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and costs, retainers, court costs, arbitration and mediation costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, witness fees, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, federal, state, local or foreign taxes imposed on Indemnitee as a result of the actual or deemed receipt of any payments under this Agreement, ERISA excise taxes and penalties and any other disbursements or expenses incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in or otherwise participating in a Proceeding. Expenses shall also include Expenses incurred in connection with any appeal resulting from any Proceeding, including, without limitation, the premium for, security for and other costs relating to any cost bond, supersedeas bond or other appeal bond or its equivalent and any expenses incurred establishing a right of indemnification.

 

(f) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a member of a law firm, that is experienced in matters of corporation law and neither is, nor in the past five years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company or Indemnitee (or any major shareholder thereof) or any affiliate of either such party in any matter material to either such party (other than with respect to matters concerning Indemnitee under this Agreement or of other indemnitees under similar indemnification agreements), or (ii) any other party to or participant or witness in the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay fees and expenses of Independent Counsel.

 

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(g) “Proceeding” means any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing, claim, demand or discovery request or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought by or in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil (including intentional or unintentional tort claims), criminal, administrative or investigative (formal or informal) nature, including any appeal therefrom, except one pending or completed on or before the Effective Date, unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing by the Company and Indemnitee. If Indemnitee reasonably believes that a given situation may lead to or culminate in the institution of a Proceeding, such situation shall also be considered a Proceeding.

 

Section 2. Services by Indemnitee . Indemnitee serves or will serve in the capacity or capacities set forth in the first WHEREAS clause above. However, this Agreement shall not impose any independent obligation on Indemnitee or the Company to continue Indemnitee’s service to the Company. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any other entity) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 3. General . The Company shall indemnify, and advance Expenses to, Indemnitee (a) as provided in this Agreement and (b) otherwise to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law in effect on the Effective Date and as amended from time to time; provided, however, that no change in Maryland law shall have the effect of reducing the benefits available to Indemnitee hereunder based on Maryland law as in effect on the Effective Date. The rights of Indemnitee provided in this Section 3 shall include, without limitation, the rights set forth in the other sections of this Agreement, including any additional indemnification permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”), including, without limitation, Section 2-418 of the MGCL.

 

Section 4. Standard for Indemnification . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with any such Proceeding unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of Indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) Indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal Proceeding, Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

 

Section 5. Certain Limits on Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement (other than Section 6), Indemnitee shall not be entitled to:

 

(a) indemnification hereunder if the Proceeding was one by or in the right of the Company and Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable to the Company;

 

(b) indemnification hereunder if Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable on the basis that personal benefit in money, property or services was improperly received in any Proceeding charging improper personal benefit to Indemnitee, whether or not involving action in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status; or

 

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(c) indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder if the Proceeding was brought by Indemnitee, unless: (i) the Proceeding was brought to enforce indemnification under this Agreement, and then only to the extent in accordance with and as authorized by Section 12 of this Agreement, or (ii) the Company’s charter or Bylaws, a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors or an agreement approved by the Board of Directors to which the Company is a party expressly provide otherwise.

 

Section 6. Court-Ordered Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, a court of appropriate jurisdiction, upon application of Indemnitee and such notice as the court shall require, may order indemnification of Indemnitee by the Company in the following circumstances:

 

(a) if such court determines that Indemnitee is entitled to reimbursement under Section 2-418(d)(1) of the MGCL, the court shall order indemnification, in which case Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover the Expenses of securing such reimbursement; or

 

(b) if such court determines that Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances, whether or not Indemnitee (i) has met the standards of conduct set forth in Section 2-418(b) of the MGCL or (ii) has been adjudged liable for receipt of an improper personal benefit under Section 2-418(c) of the MGCL, the court may order such indemnification as the court shall deem proper without regard to any limitation on such court-ordered indemnification contemplated by Section 2-418(d)(2)(ii) of the MGCL.

 

Section 7. Indemnification for Expenses of an Indemnitee Who is Wholly or Partially Successful . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and without limiting any such provision, to the extent that Indemnitee was or is, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a party to (or otherwise becomes a participant in) any Proceeding and is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful, on the merits or otherwise, as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee under this Section 7 for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with each such claim, issue or matter, allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. For purposes of this Section 7 and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

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Section 8. Advance of Expenses for Indemnitee . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall, without requiring a preliminary determination of Indemnitee’s ultimate entitlement to indemnification hereunder, advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of Indemnitee in connection with such Proceeding. The Company shall make such advance of incurred Expenses within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advance from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding, which advance may be in the form of, in the reasonable discretion of Indemnitee (but without duplication), (a) payment of such Expenses directly to third parties on behalf of Indemnitee, (b) advance of funds to Indemnitee in an amount sufficient to pay such Expenses or (c) reimbursement to Indemnitee for Indemnitee’s payment of such Expenses. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee and shall include or be preceded or accompanied by a written affirmation by Indemnitee and a written undertaking by or on behalf of Indemnitee, in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of the execution thereof. To the extent that Expenses advanced to Indemnitee do not relate to a specific claim, issue or matter in the Proceeding, such Expenses shall be allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. The undertaking required by this Section 8 shall be an unlimited general obligation by or on behalf of Indemnitee and shall be accepted without reference to Indemnitee’s financial ability to repay such advanced Expenses and without any requirement to post security therefor.

 

Section 9. Indemnification and Advance of Expenses as a Witness or Other Participant . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee is or may be, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a witness or otherwise asked to participate in any Proceeding, whether instituted by the Company or any other person, and to which Indemnitee is not a party, Indemnitee shall be advanced and indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting any such advance or indemnification from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee. In connection with any such advance of Expenses, the Company may require Indemnitee to provide an undertaking and affirmation substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of execution thereof.

 

Section 10. Procedure for Determination of Entitlement to Indemnification .

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request, including therein or therewith such documentation and information as is reasonably available to Indemnitee and is reasonably necessary or appropriate to determine whether and to what extent Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification. Indemnitee may submit one or more such requests from time to time and at such time(s) as Indemnitee deems appropriate in Indemnitee’s sole discretion. The officer of the Company receiving any such request from Indemnitee shall, promptly upon receipt of such a request for indemnification, advise the Board of Directors in writing that Indemnitee has requested indemnification.

 

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(b) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 10(a) above, a determination, if required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement thereto shall promptly be made in the specific case: (i) if a Change in Control has occurred, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee, which Independent Counsel shall be selected by Indemnitee and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; or (ii) if a Change in Control has not occurred, (A) by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors or by the majority vote of a group of Disinterested Directors designated by the Disinterested Directors to make the determination, (B) if Independent Counsel has been selected by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL and approved by Indemnitee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee or (C) if so directed by the Board of Directors, by the stockholders of the Company, other than directors or officers who are parties to the Proceeding. If it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall make payment to Indemnitee within ten days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the person, persons or entity making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such person, persons or entity upon reasonable advance request any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary or appropriate to such determination in the discretion of the Board of Directors or Independent Counsel if retained pursuant to clause (ii)(B) of this Section 10(b). Any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the person, persons or entity making such determination shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company shall indemnify and hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

(c) The Company shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of Independent Counsel, if one is appointed.

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings .

 

(a) In making any determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, the person or persons (including any court having jurisdiction over the matter) making such determination shall presume that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 10(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of overcoming that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, does not create a presumption that Indemnitee did not meet the requisite standard of conduct described herein for indemnification.

 

(c) The knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any other director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or any other director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining any other right to indemnification under this Agreement.

 

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Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee .

 

(a) If (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advance of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement within 60 days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification, (iv) payment of indemnification is not made pursuant to Sections 7 or 9 of this Agreement within ten days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor, or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to any other section of this Agreement or the charter or Bylaws of the Company is not made within ten days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication in an appropriate court located in the State of Maryland, or in any other court of competent jurisdiction, or, at Indemnitee’s option, in an arbitration conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (provided, however, that the Company and the Indemnitee agree to use reasonable efforts to ensure that the arbitrator makes a ruling in any such arbitration under this Section 12(a) within 60 days of the commencement of such arbitration), of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification or advance of Expenses. Indemnitee shall commence a proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not apply to a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under Section 7 of this Agreement. Except as set forth herein, the provisions of Maryland law (without regard to its conflicts of laws rules) shall apply to any such arbitration. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

(b) In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall be presumed to be entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be, under this Agreement and the Company shall have the burden of proving that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be. If Indemnitee commences a judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall not be required to reimburse the Company for any advances pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement until a final determination is made with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification (as to which all rights of appeal have been exhausted or lapsed). The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

(c) If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification that was not disclosed in connection with the determination.

 

(d) In the event that Indemnitee is successful in seeking, pursuant to this Section 12, a judicial adjudication of or an award in arbitration to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under, or to recover damages for breach of, this Agreement, Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover from the Company, and shall be indemnified by the Company for, any and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in such judicial adjudication or arbitration. If it shall be determined in such judicial adjudication or arbitration that Indemnitee is entitled to receive part but not all of the indemnification or advance of Expenses sought, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with such judicial adjudication or arbitration shall be appropriately prorated.

 

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(e) Interest shall be paid by the Company to Indemnitee at the maximum rate allowed to be charged for judgments under the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland for amounts which the Company pays or is obligated to pay for the period (i) commencing with either the tenth day after the date on which the Company was requested to advance Expenses in accordance with Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement or the 60 th day after the date on which the Company was requested to make the determination of entitlement to indemnification under Section 10(b) of this Agreement, as applicable, and (ii) ending on the date such payment is made to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 13. Defense of the Underlying Proceeding .

 

(a) Indemnitee shall notify the Company promptly in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, request or other document relating to any Proceeding which may result in the right to indemnification or the advance of Expenses hereunder and shall include with such notice a description of the nature of the Proceeding and a summary of the facts underlying the Proceeding. The failure to give any such notice shall not disqualify Indemnitee from the right, or otherwise affect in any manner any right of Indemnitee, to indemnification or the advance of Expenses under this Agreement unless the Company’s ability to defend in such Proceeding or to obtain proceeds under any insurance policy is materially and adversely prejudiced thereby, and then only to the extent the Company is thereby actually so prejudiced.

 

(b) Subject to the provisions of the last sentence of this Section 13(b) and of Section 13(c) below, the Company shall have the right to defend Indemnitee in any Proceeding which may give rise to indemnification hereunder; provided, however, that the Company shall notify Indemnitee of any such decision to defend within 15 days following receipt of notice of any such Proceeding under Section 13(a) above. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, consent to the entry of any judgment against Indemnitee or enter into any settlement or compromise with respect to Indemnitee which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, (ii) does not include, as an unconditional term thereof, the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding, which release shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Indemnitee, or (iii) would impose any Expense, judgment, fine, penalty or limitation on Indemnitee. This Section 13(b) shall not apply to a Proceeding brought by Indemnitee under Section 12 of this Agreement.

 

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(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13(b) above, if in a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, (i) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that Indemnitee may have separate defenses or counterclaims to assert with respect to any issue which may not be consistent with other defendants in such Proceeding, (ii) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that an actual or apparent conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest exists between Indemnitee and the Company, or (iii) if the Company fails to assume the defense of such Proceeding in a timely manner, Indemnitee shall be entitled to be represented by separate legal counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company. In addition, if the Company fails to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or in the event that the Company or any other person takes any action to declare this Agreement void or unenforceable, or institutes any Proceeding to deny or to recover from Indemnitee the benefits intended to be provided to Indemnitee hereunder, Indemnitee shall have the right to retain counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company (subject to Section 12(d) of this Agreement), to represent Indemnitee in connection with any such matter.

 

Section 14. Non-Exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Subrogation .

 

(a) The rights of indemnification and advance of Expenses as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the charter or Bylaws of the Company, any agreement or a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors, or otherwise. Unless consented to in writing by Indemnitee, no amendment, alteration or repeal of the charter or Bylaws of the Company, this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal, regardless of whether a claim with respect to such action or inaction is raised prior or subsequent to such amendment, alteration or repeal. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right or remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prohibit the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) In the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

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Section 15. Insurance .

 

(a) The Company will use its reasonable best efforts to acquire directors and officers liability insurance, on terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors, with the advice of counsel, covering Indemnitee or any claim made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status and covering the Company for any indemnification or advance of Expenses made by the Company to Indemnitee for any claims made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status. In the event of a Change in Control, the Company shall maintain in force any and all directors and officers liability insurance policies that were maintained by the Company immediately prior to the Change in Control for a period of six years with the insurance carrier or carriers and through the insurance broker in place at the time of the Change in Control; provided, however, (i) if the carriers will not offer the same policy and an expiring policy needs to be replaced, a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount shall be obtained and (ii) if any replacement insurance carrier is necessary to obtain a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount, such insurance carrier shall have an AM Best rating that is the same or better than the AM Best rating of the existing insurance carrier; provided, further, however, in no event shall the Company be required to expend in the aggregate in excess of 250% of the annual premium or premiums paid by the Company for directors and officers liability insurance in effect on the date of the Change in Control. In the event that 250% of the annual premium paid by the Company for such existing directors and officers liability insurance is insufficient for such coverage, the Company shall spend up to that amount to purchase such lesser coverage as may be obtained with such amount.

 

(b) Without in any way limiting any other obligation under this Agreement, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for any payment by Indemnitee which would otherwise be indemnifiable hereunder arising out of the amount of any deductible or retention and the amount of any excess of the aggregate of all judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding over the coverage of any insurance referred to in Section 15(a). The purchase, establishment and maintenance of any such insurance shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company or Indemnitee under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein, and the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and Indemnitee shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company under any such insurance policies. If, at the time the Company receives notice from any source of a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party or a participant (as a witness or otherwise) the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such Proceeding to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies.

 

(c) The Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Company or any insurance carrier of the Company with respect to any Proceeding.

 

Section 16. Coordination of Payments . The Company shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment of amounts otherwise indemnifiable or payable or reimbursable as Expenses hereunder if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such payment under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise.

 

Section 17. Contribution . If the indemnification provided in this Agreement is unavailable in whole or in part and may not be paid to Indemnitee for any reason, other than for failure to satisfy the standard of conduct set forth in Section 4 or due to the provisions of Section 5, then, with respect to any Proceeding in which the Company is jointly liable with Indemnitee (or would be if joined in such Proceeding), to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying and holding harmless Indemnitee, shall pay, in the first instance, the entire amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for Expenses, judgments, penalties, and/or amounts paid or to be paid in settlement, in connection with any Proceeding without requiring Indemnitee to contribute to such payment, and the Company hereby waives and relinquishes any right of contribution it may have at any time against Indemnitee.

 

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Section 18. Reports to Stockholders . To the extent required by the MGCL, the Company shall report in writing to its stockholders the payment of any amounts for indemnification of, or advance of Expenses to, Indemnitee under this Agreement arising out of a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company with the notice of the meeting of stockholders of the Company next following the date of the payment of any such indemnification or advance of Expenses or prior to such meeting.

 

Section 19. Duration of Agreement; Binding Effect .

 

(a) This Agreement shall continue until and terminate on the later of (i) the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company and (ii) the date that Indemnitee is no longer subject to any actual or possible Proceeding (including any rights of appeal thereto and any Proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement).

 

(b) The indemnification and advance of Expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Agreement shall be binding upon and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns (including any direct or indirect successor by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise to all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company), shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company, and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s spouse, assigns, heirs, devisees, executors and administrators and other legal representatives.

 

(c) The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

(d) The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement, at some later date, may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult to ascertain, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which Indemnitee may be entitled. Indemnitee shall further be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertakings in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that, in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by a court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of such a bond or undertaking.

 

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Section 20. Severability . If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 21. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, (delivery of which may be by facsimile, or via e-mail as a portable document format (.pdf) or other electronic format), each of which will be deemed to be an original, and it will not be necessary in making proof of this Agreement or the terms of this Agreement to produce or account for more than one such counterpart. One such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought shall be sufficient to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 22. Headings . The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 23. Modification and Waiver . No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by both of the parties hereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions hereof (whether or not similar) nor, unless otherwise expressly stated, shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

 

Section 24. Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, on the day of such delivery, or (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, to the address set forth on the signature page hereto.

 

(b) If to the Company, to:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

75 Columbia Avenue

Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

or to such other address as may have been furnished in writing to Indemnitee by the Company or to the Company by Indemnitee, as the case may be.

 

Section 25. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws rules.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name:  Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
   
  INDEMNITEE:
   
   
  Name:
  Address:

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
   
  By:                                                            
  Name:
  Title:
   
  INDEMNITEE:
   
  /s/ Anton Feingold
  Name: Anton Feingold

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

AFFIRMATION AND UNDERTAKING TO REPAY EXPENSES ADVANCED

 

To: The Board of Directors of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

Re: Affirmation and Undertaking

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

This Affirmation and Undertaking is being provided pursuant to that certain Indemnification Agreement dated the _____ day of___________, 20____, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and the undersigned Indemnitee (the “Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which I am entitled to advance of Expenses in connection with [Description of Proceeding] (the “Proceeding”).

 

Terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings specified in the Indemnification Agreement.

 

I am subject to the Proceeding by reason of my Corporate Status or by reason of alleged actions or omissions by me in such capacity. I hereby affirm my good faith belief that at all times, insofar as I was involved as [a director] [and] [an officer] of the Company, in any of the facts or events giving rise to the Proceeding, I (1) did not act with bad faith or active or deliberate dishonesty, (2) did not receive any improper personal benefit in money, property or services and (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that any act or omission by me was unlawful.

 

In consideration of the advance by the Company for Expenses incurred by me in connection with the Proceeding (the “Advanced Expenses”), I hereby agree that if, in connection with the Proceeding, it is established that (1) an act or omission by me was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (a) was committed in bad faith or (b) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty or (2) I actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, I had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful, then I shall promptly reimburse the portion of the Advanced Expenses relating to the claims, issues or matters in the Proceeding as to which the foregoing findings have been established.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Affirmation and Undertaking on this ___ day of__________, 20____.

 

  Name:    

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.23

 

INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

THIS INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the 17th day of May, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and Jeremy Garber (“Indemnitee”).

 

WHEREAS, at the request of the Company, Indemnitee currently serves as an officer of the Company and may, therefore, be subjected to claims, suits or proceedings arising as a result of such service;

 

WHEREAS, as an inducement to Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve in such capacity, the Company has agreed to indemnify Indemnitee and to advance expenses and costs incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any such claims, suits or proceedings, to the maximum extent permitted by law; and

 

WHEREAS, the parties by this Agreement desire to set forth their agreement regarding indemnification and advance of expenses;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement:

 

(a) “Change in Control” means a change in control of the Company occurring after the Effective Date of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or in response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement; provided, however, that, without limitation, such a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred if, after the Effective Date (i) any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 35% or more of the combined voting power of all of the Company’s then-outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors without the prior approval of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such person’s attaining such percentage interest; (ii) the Company is a party to a merger, consolidation, sale of assets, plan of liquidation or other reorganization not approved by at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors then in office, as a consequence of which members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such transaction or event constitute less than a majority of the Board of Directors thereafter; or (iii) at any time, a majority of the members of the Board of Directors are not individuals (A) who were directors as of the Effective Date or (B) whose election by the Board of Directors or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then in office who were directors as of the Effective Date or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved.

 

 

 

 

(b) “Corporate Status” means the status of a person as a present or former director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company. As a clarification and without limiting the circumstances in which Indemnitee may be serving at the request of the Company, service by Indemnitee shall be deemed to be at the request of the Company: (i) if Indemnitee serves or served as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (1) of which a majority of the voting power or equity interest is or was owned directly or indirectly by the Company or (2) the management of which is controlled directly or indirectly by the Company and (ii) if, as a result of Indemnitee’s service to the Company or any of its affiliated entities, Indemnitee is subject to duties to, or required to perform services for, an employee benefit plan or its participants or beneficiaries, including as a deemed fiduciary thereof.

 

(c) “Disinterested Director” means a director of the Company who is not and was not a party to the Proceeding in respect of which indemnification and/or advance of Expenses is sought by Indemnitee and has no financial stake in the outcome of the Proceeding or determination referred to in Section 10 hereof.

 

(d) “Effective Date” means the date set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

(e) “Expenses” means any and all reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and costs, retainers, court costs, arbitration and mediation costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, witness fees, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, federal, state, local or foreign taxes imposed on Indemnitee as a result of the actual or deemed receipt of any payments under this Agreement, ERISA excise taxes and penalties and any other disbursements or expenses incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in or otherwise participating in a Proceeding. Expenses shall also include Expenses incurred in connection with any appeal resulting from any Proceeding, including, without limitation, the premium for, security for and other costs relating to any cost bond, supersedeas bond or other appeal bond or its equivalent and any expenses incurred establishing a right of indemnification.

 

(f) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a member of a law firm, that is experienced in matters of corporation law and neither is, nor in the past five years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company or Indemnitee (or any major shareholder thereof) or any affiliate of either such party in any matter material to either such party (other than with respect to matters concerning Indemnitee under this Agreement or of other indemnitees under similar indemnification agreements), or (ii) any other party to or participant or witness in the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay fees and expenses of Independent Counsel.

 

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(g) “Proceeding” means any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing, claim, demand or discovery request or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought by or in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil (including intentional or unintentional tort claims), criminal, administrative or investigative (formal or informal) nature, including any appeal therefrom, except one pending or completed on or before the Effective Date, unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing by the Company and Indemnitee. If Indemnitee reasonably believes that a given situation may lead to or culminate in the institution of a Proceeding, such situation shall also be considered a Proceeding.

 

Section 2. Services by Indemnitee . Indemnitee serves or will serve in the capacity or capacities set forth in the first WHEREAS clause above. However, this Agreement shall not impose any independent obligation on Indemnitee or the Company to continue Indemnitee’s service to the Company. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any other entity) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 3. General . The Company shall indemnify, and advance Expenses to, Indemnitee (a) as provided in this Agreement and (b) otherwise to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law in effect on the Effective Date and as amended from time to time; provided, however, that no change in Maryland law shall have the effect of reducing the benefits available to Indemnitee hereunder based on Maryland law as in effect on the Effective Date. The rights of Indemnitee provided in this Section 3 shall include, without limitation, the rights set forth in the other sections of this Agreement, including any additional indemnification permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”), including, without limitation, Section 2-418 of the MGCL.

 

Section 4. Standard for Indemnification . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with any such Proceeding unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of Indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) Indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal Proceeding, Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

 

Section 5. Certain Limits on Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement (other than Section 6), Indemnitee shall not be entitled to:

 

(a) indemnification hereunder if the Proceeding was one by or in the right of the Company and Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable to the Company;

 

(b) indemnification hereunder if Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable on the basis that personal benefit in money, property or services was improperly received in any Proceeding charging improper personal benefit to Indemnitee, whether or not involving action in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status; or

 

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(c) indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder if the Proceeding was brought by Indemnitee, unless: (i) the Proceeding was brought to enforce indemnification under this Agreement, and then only to the extent in accordance with and as authorized by Section 12 of this Agreement, or (ii) the Company’s charter or Bylaws, a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors or an agreement approved by the Board of Directors to which the Company is a party expressly provide otherwise.

 

Section 6. Court-Ordered Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, a court of appropriate jurisdiction, upon application of Indemnitee and such notice as the court shall require, may order indemnification of Indemnitee by the Company in the following circumstances:

 

(a) if such court determines that Indemnitee is entitled to reimbursement under Section 2-418(d)(1) of the MGCL, the court shall order indemnification, in which case Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover the Expenses of securing such reimbursement; or

 

(b) if such court determines that Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances, whether or not Indemnitee (i) has met the standards of conduct set forth in Section 2-418(b) of the MGCL or (ii) has been adjudged liable for receipt of an improper personal benefit under Section 2-418(c) of the MGCL, the court may order such indemnification as the court shall deem proper without regard to any limitation on such court-ordered indemnification contemplated by Section 2-418(d)(2)(ii) of the MGCL.

 

Section 7. Indemnification for Expenses of an Indemnitee Who is Wholly or Partially Successful . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and without limiting any such provision, to the extent that Indemnitee was or is, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a party to (or otherwise becomes a participant in) any Proceeding and is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful, on the merits or otherwise, as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee under this Section 7 for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with each such claim, issue or matter, allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. For purposes of this Section 7 and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

Section 8. Advance of Expenses for Indemnitee . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall, without requiring a preliminary determination of Indemnitee’s ultimate entitlement to indemnification hereunder, advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of Indemnitee in connection with such Proceeding. The Company shall make such advance of incurred Expenses within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advance from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding, which advance may be in the form of, in the reasonable discretion of Indemnitee (but without duplication), (a) payment of such Expenses directly to third parties on behalf of Indemnitee, (b) advance of funds to Indemnitee in an amount sufficient to pay such Expenses or (c) reimbursement to Indemnitee for Indemnitee’s payment of such Expenses. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee and shall include or be preceded or accompanied by a written affirmation by Indemnitee and a written undertaking by or on behalf of Indemnitee, in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of the execution thereof. To the extent that Expenses advanced to Indemnitee do not relate to a specific claim, issue or matter in the Proceeding, such Expenses shall be allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. The undertaking required by this Section 8 shall be an unlimited general obligation by or on behalf of Indemnitee and shall be accepted without reference to Indemnitee’s financial ability to repay such advanced Expenses and without any requirement to post security therefor.

 

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Section 9. Indemnification and Advance of Expenses as a Witness or Other Participant . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee is or may be, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a witness or otherwise asked to participate in any Proceeding, whether instituted by the Company or any other person, and to which Indemnitee is not a party, Indemnitee shall be advanced and indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting any such advance or indemnification from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee. In connection with any such advance of Expenses, the Company may require Indemnitee to provide an undertaking and affirmation substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of execution thereof.

 

Section 10. Procedure for Determination of Entitlement to Indemnification .

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request, including therein or therewith such documentation and information as is reasonably available to Indemnitee and is reasonably necessary or appropriate to determine whether and to what extent Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification. Indemnitee may submit one or more such requests from time to time and at such time(s) as Indemnitee deems appropriate in Indemnitee’s sole discretion. The officer of the Company receiving any such request from Indemnitee shall, promptly upon receipt of such a request for indemnification, advise the Board of Directors in writing that Indemnitee has requested indemnification.

  

(b) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 10(a) above, a determination, if required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement thereto shall promptly be made in the specific case: (i) if a Change in Control has occurred, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee, which Independent Counsel shall be selected by Indemnitee and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; or (ii) if a Change in Control has not occurred, (A) by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors or by the majority vote of a group of Disinterested Directors designated by the Disinterested Directors to make the determination, (B) if Independent Counsel has been selected by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL and approved by Indemnitee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee or (C) if so directed by the Board of Directors, by the stockholders of the Company, other than directors or officers who are parties to the Proceeding. If it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall make payment to Indemnitee within ten days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the person, persons or entity making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such person, persons or entity upon reasonable advance request any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary or appropriate to such determination in the discretion of the Board of Directors or Independent Counsel if retained pursuant to clause (ii)(B) of this Section 10(b). Any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the person, persons or entity making such determination shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company shall indemnify and hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

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(c) The Company shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of Independent Counsel, if one is appointed.

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings .

 

(a) In making any determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, the person or persons (including any court having jurisdiction over the matter) making such determination shall presume that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 10(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of overcoming that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, does not create a presumption that Indemnitee did not meet the requisite standard of conduct described herein for indemnification.

 

(c) The knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any other director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or any other director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining any other right to indemnification under this Agreement.

 

Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee .

 

(a) If (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advance of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement within 60 days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification, (iv) payment of indemnification is not made pursuant to Sections 7 or 9 of this Agreement within ten days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor, or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to any other section of this Agreement or the charter or Bylaws of the Company is not made within ten days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication in an appropriate court located in the State of Maryland, or in any other court of competent jurisdiction, or, at Indemnitee’s option, in an arbitration conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (provided, however, that the Company and the Indemnitee agree to use reasonable efforts to ensure that the arbitrator makes a ruling in any such arbitration under this Section 12(a) within 60 days of the commencement of such arbitration), of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification or advance of Expenses. Indemnitee shall commence a proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not apply to a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under Section 7 of this Agreement. Except as set forth herein, the provisions of Maryland law (without regard to its conflicts of laws rules) shall apply to any such arbitration. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

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(b) In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall be presumed to be entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be, under this Agreement and the Company shall have the burden of proving that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be. If Indemnitee commences a judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall not be required to reimburse the Company for any advances pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement until a final determination is made with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification (as to which all rights of appeal have been exhausted or lapsed). The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

(c) If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification that was not disclosed in connection with the determination.

 

(d) In the event that Indemnitee is successful in seeking, pursuant to this Section 12, a judicial adjudication of or an award in arbitration to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under, or to recover damages for breach of, this Agreement, Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover from the Company, and shall be indemnified by the Company for, any and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in such judicial adjudication or arbitration. If it shall be determined in such judicial adjudication or arbitration that Indemnitee is entitled to receive part but not all of the indemnification or advance of Expenses sought, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with such judicial adjudication or arbitration shall be appropriately prorated.

 

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(e) Interest shall be paid by the Company to Indemnitee at the maximum rate allowed to be charged for judgments under the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland for amounts which the Company pays or is obligated to pay for the period (i) commencing with either the tenth day after the date on which the Company was requested to advance Expenses in accordance with Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement or the 60 th day after the date on which the Company was requested to make the determination of entitlement to indemnification under Section 10(b) of this Agreement, as applicable, and (ii) ending on the date such payment is made to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 13. Defense of the Underlying Proceeding .

 

(a) Indemnitee shall notify the Company promptly in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, request or other document relating to any Proceeding which may result in the right to indemnification or the advance of Expenses hereunder and shall include with such notice a description of the nature of the Proceeding and a summary of the facts underlying the Proceeding. The failure to give any such notice shall not disqualify Indemnitee from the right, or otherwise affect in any manner any right of Indemnitee, to indemnification or the advance of Expenses under this Agreement unless the Company’s ability to defend in such Proceeding or to obtain proceeds under any insurance policy is materially and adversely prejudiced thereby, and then only to the extent the Company is thereby actually so prejudiced.

 

(b) Subject to the provisions of the last sentence of this Section 13(b) and of Section 13(c) below, the Company shall have the right to defend Indemnitee in any Proceeding which may give rise to indemnification hereunder; provided, however, that the Company shall notify Indemnitee of any such decision to defend within 15 days following receipt of notice of any such Proceeding under Section 13(a) above. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, consent to the entry of any judgment against Indemnitee or enter into any settlement or compromise with respect to Indemnitee which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, (ii) does not include, as an unconditional term thereof, the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding, which release shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Indemnitee, or (iii) would impose any Expense, judgment, fine, penalty or limitation on Indemnitee. This Section 13(b) shall not apply to a Proceeding brought by Indemnitee under Section 12 of this Agreement.

 

(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13(b) above, if in a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, (i) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that Indemnitee may have separate defenses or counterclaims to assert with respect to any issue which may not be consistent with other defendants in such Proceeding, (ii) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that an actual or apparent conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest exists between Indemnitee and the Company, or (iii) if the Company fails to assume the defense of such Proceeding in a timely manner, Indemnitee shall be entitled to be represented by separate legal counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company. In addition, if the Company fails to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or in the event that the Company or any other person takes any action to declare this Agreement void or unenforceable, or institutes any Proceeding to deny or to recover from Indemnitee the benefits intended to be provided to Indemnitee hereunder, Indemnitee shall have the right to retain counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company (subject to Section 12(d) of this Agreement), to represent Indemnitee in connection with any such matter.

 

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Section 14. Non-Exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Subrogation .

 

(a) The rights of indemnification and advance of Expenses as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the charter or Bylaws of the Company, any agreement or a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors, or otherwise. Unless consented to in writing by Indemnitee, no amendment, alteration or repeal of the charter or Bylaws of the Company, this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal, regardless of whether a claim with respect to such action or inaction is raised prior or subsequent to such amendment, alteration or repeal. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right or remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prohibit the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) In the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

Section 15. Insurance .

 

(a) The Company will use its reasonable best efforts to acquire directors and officers liability insurance, on terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors, with the advice of counsel, covering Indemnitee or any claim made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status and covering the Company for any indemnification or advance of Expenses made by the Company to Indemnitee for any claims made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status. In the event of a Change in Control, the Company shall maintain in force any and all directors and officers liability insurance policies that were maintained by the Company immediately prior to the Change in Control for a period of six years with the insurance carrier or carriers and through the insurance broker in place at the time of the Change in Control; provided, however, (i) if the carriers will not offer the same policy and an expiring policy needs to be replaced, a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount shall be obtained and (ii) if any replacement insurance carrier is necessary to obtain a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount, such insurance carrier shall have an AM Best rating that is the same or better than the AM Best rating of the existing insurance carrier; provided, further, however, in no event shall the Company be required to expend in the aggregate in excess of 250% of the annual premium or premiums paid by the Company for directors and officers liability insurance in effect on the date of the Change in Control. In the event that 250% of the annual premium paid by the Company for such existing directors and officers liability insurance is insufficient for such coverage, the Company shall spend up to that amount to purchase such lesser coverage as may be obtained with such amount.

 

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(b) Without in any way limiting any other obligation under this Agreement, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for any payment by Indemnitee which would otherwise be indemnifiable hereunder arising out of the amount of any deductible or retention and the amount of any excess of the aggregate of all judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding over the coverage of any insurance referred to in Section 15(a). The purchase, establishment and maintenance of any such insurance shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company or Indemnitee under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein, and the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and Indemnitee shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company under any such insurance policies. If, at the time the Company receives notice from any source of a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party or a participant (as a witness or otherwise) the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such Proceeding to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies.

 

(c) The Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Company or any insurance carrier of the Company with respect to any Proceeding.

 

Section 16. Coordination of Payments . The Company shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment of amounts otherwise indemnifiable or payable or reimbursable as Expenses hereunder if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such payment under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise.

 

Section 17. Contribution . If the indemnification provided in this Agreement is unavailable in whole or in part and may not be paid to Indemnitee for any reason, other than for failure to satisfy the standard of conduct set forth in Section 4 or due to the provisions of Section 5, then, with respect to any Proceeding in which the Company is jointly liable with Indemnitee (or would be if joined in such Proceeding), to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying and holding harmless Indemnitee, shall pay, in the first instance, the entire amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for Expenses, judgments, penalties, and/or amounts paid or to be paid in settlement, in connection with any Proceeding without requiring Indemnitee to contribute to such payment, and the Company hereby waives and relinquishes any right of contribution it may have at any time against Indemnitee.

 

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Section 18. Reports to Stockholders . To the extent required by the MGCL, the Company shall report in writing to its stockholders the payment of any amounts for indemnification of, or advance of Expenses to, Indemnitee under this Agreement arising out of a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company with the notice of the meeting of stockholders of the Company next following the date of the payment of any such indemnification or advance of Expenses or prior to such meeting.

 

Section 19. Duration of Agreement; Binding Effect .

 

(a) This Agreement shall continue until and terminate on the later of (i) the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company and (ii) the date that Indemnitee is no longer subject to any actual or possible Proceeding (including any rights of appeal thereto and any Proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement).

 

(b) The indemnification and advance of Expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Agreement shall be binding upon and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns (including any direct or indirect successor by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise to all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company), shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company, and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s spouse, assigns, heirs, devisees, executors and administrators and other legal representatives.

 

(c) The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

(d) The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement, at some later date, may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult to ascertain, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which Indemnitee may be entitled. Indemnitee shall further be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertakings in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that, in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by a court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of such a bond or undertaking.

 

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Section 20. Severability . If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 21. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, (delivery of which may be by facsimile, or via e-mail as a portable document format (.pdf) or other electronic format), each of which will be deemed to be an original, and it will not be necessary in making proof of this Agreement or the terms of this Agreement to produce or account for more than one such counterpart. One such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought shall be sufficient to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 22. Headings . The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 23. Modification and Waiver . No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by both of the parties hereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions hereof (whether or not similar) nor, unless otherwise expressly stated, shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

 

Section 24. Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, on the day of such delivery, or (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, to the address set forth on the signature page hereto.

 

(b) If to the Company, to:
     
    Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    75 Columbia Avenue
    Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

or to such other address as may have been furnished in writing to Indemnitee by the Company or to the Company by Indemnitee, as the case may be.

 

Section 25. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws rules.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  INDEMNITEE:
     
    /s/ Jeremy Garber
  Name: Jeremy Garber
  Address:  

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

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EXHIBIT A

 

AFFIRMATION AND UNDERTAKING TO REPAY EXPENSES ADVANCED

 

To: The Board of Directors of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

Re: Affirmation and Undertaking

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

This Affirmation and Undertaking is being provided pursuant to that certain Indemnification Agreement dated the _____ day of______________ , 20____, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and the undersigned Indemnitee (the “Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which I am entitled to advance of Expenses in connection with [Description of Proceeding] (the “Proceeding”).

 

Terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings specified in the Indemnification Agreement.

 

I am subject to the Proceeding by reason of my Corporate Status or by reason of alleged actions or omissions by me in such capacity. I hereby affirm my good faith belief that at all times, insofar as I was involved as [a director] [and] [an officer] of the Company, in any of the facts or events giving rise to the Proceeding, I (1) did not act with bad faith or active or deliberate dishonesty, (2) did not receive any improper personal benefit in money, property or services and (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that any act or omission by me was unlawful.

 

In consideration of the advance by the Company for Expenses incurred by me in connection with the Proceeding (the “Advanced Expenses”), I hereby agree that if, in connection with the Proceeding, it is established that (1) an act or omission by me was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (a) was committed in bad faith or (b) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty or (2) I actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, I had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful, then I shall promptly reimburse the portion of the Advanced Expenses relating to the claims, issues or matters in the Proceeding as to which the foregoing findings have been established.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Affirmation and Undertaking on this ___day of____________________ , 20____.

 

  Name:  

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.24

 

INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

THIS INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the 17th day of May, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and Jane Gural-Senders (“Indemnitee”).

 

WHEREAS, at the request of the Company, Indemnitee currently serves as a director of the Company and may, therefore, be subjected to claims, suits or proceedings arising as a result of such service;

 

WHEREAS, as an inducement to Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve in such capacity, the Company has agreed to indemnify Indemnitee and to advance expenses and costs incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any such claims, suits or proceedings, to the maximum extent permitted by law; and

 

WHEREAS, the parties by this Agreement desire to set forth their agreement regarding indemnification and advance of expenses;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement:

 

(a) “Change in Control” means a change in control of the Company occurring after the Effective Date of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or in response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement; provided, however, that, without limitation, such a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred if, after the Effective Date (i) any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 35% or more of the combined voting power of all of the Company’s then-outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors without the prior approval of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such person’s attaining such percentage interest; (ii) the Company is a party to a merger, consolidation, sale of assets, plan of liquidation or other reorganization not approved by at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors then in office, as a consequence of which members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such transaction or event constitute less than a majority of the Board of Directors thereafter; or (iii) at any time, a majority of the members of the Board of Directors are not individuals (A) who were directors as of the Effective Date or (B) whose election by the Board of Directors or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then in office who were directors as of the Effective Date or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved.

 

 

 

 

(b) “Corporate Status” means the status of a person as a present or former director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company. As a clarification and without limiting the circumstances in which Indemnitee may be serving at the request of the Company, service by Indemnitee shall be deemed to be at the request of the Company: (i) if Indemnitee serves or served as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (1) of which a majority of the voting power or equity interest is or was owned directly or indirectly by the Company or (2) the management of which is controlled directly or indirectly by the Company and (ii) if, as a result of Indemnitee’s service to the Company or any of its affiliated entities, Indemnitee is subject to duties to, or required to perform services for, an employee benefit plan or its participants or beneficiaries, including as a deemed fiduciary thereof.

 

(c) “Disinterested Director” means a director of the Company who is not and was not a party to the Proceeding in respect of which indemnification and/or advance of Expenses is sought by Indemnitee and has no financial stake in the outcome of the Proceeding or determination referred to in Section 10 hereof.

 

(d) “Effective Date” means the date set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

(e) “Expenses” means any and all reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and costs, retainers, court costs, arbitration and mediation costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, witness fees, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, federal, state, local or foreign taxes imposed on Indemnitee as a result of the actual or deemed receipt of any payments under this Agreement, ERISA excise taxes and penalties and any other disbursements or expenses incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in or otherwise participating in a Proceeding. Expenses shall also include Expenses incurred in connection with any appeal resulting from any Proceeding, including, without limitation, the premium for, security for and other costs relating to any cost bond, supersedeas bond or other appeal bond or its equivalent and any expenses incurred establishing a right of indemnification.

 

(f) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a member of a law firm, that is experienced in matters of corporation law and neither is, nor in the past five years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company or Indemnitee (or any major shareholder thereof) or any affiliate of either such party in any matter material to either such party (other than with respect to matters concerning Indemnitee under this Agreement or of other indemnitees under similar indemnification agreements), or (ii) any other party to or participant or witness in the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay fees and expenses of Independent Counsel.

 

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(g) “Proceeding” means any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing, claim, demand or discovery request or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought by or in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil (including intentional or unintentional tort claims), criminal, administrative or investigative (formal or informal) nature, including any appeal therefrom, except one pending or completed on or before the Effective Date, unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing by the Company and Indemnitee. If Indemnitee reasonably believes that a given situation may lead to or culminate in the institution of a Proceeding, such situation shall also be considered a Proceeding.

 

Section 2. Services by Indemnitee . Indemnitee serves or will serve in the capacity or capacities set forth in the first WHEREAS clause above. However, this Agreement shall not impose any independent obligation on Indemnitee or the Company to continue Indemnitee’s service to the Company. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any other entity) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 3. General . The Company shall indemnify, and advance Expenses to, Indemnitee (a) as provided in this Agreement and (b) otherwise to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law in effect on the Effective Date and as amended from time to time; provided, however, that no change in Maryland law shall have the effect of reducing the benefits available to Indemnitee hereunder based on Maryland law as in effect on the Effective Date. The rights of Indemnitee provided in this Section 3 shall include, without limitation, the rights set forth in the other sections of this Agreement, including any additional indemnification permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”), including, without limitation, Section 2-418 of the MGCL.

 

Section 4. Standard for Indemnification . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with any such Proceeding unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of Indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) Indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal Proceeding, Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

 

Section 5. Certain Limits on Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement (other than Section 6), Indemnitee shall not be entitled to:

 

(a) indemnification hereunder if the Proceeding was one by or in the right of the Company and Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable to the Company;

 

(b) indemnification hereunder if Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable on the basis that personal benefit in money, property or services was improperly received in any Proceeding charging improper personal benefit to Indemnitee, whether or not involving action in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status; or

 

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(c) indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder if the Proceeding was brought by Indemnitee, unless: (i) the Proceeding was brought to enforce indemnification under this Agreement, and then only to the extent in accordance with and as authorized by Section 12 of this Agreement, or (ii) the Company’s charter or Bylaws, a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors or an agreement approved by the Board of Directors to which the Company is a party expressly provide otherwise.

 

Section 6. Court-Ordered Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, a court of appropriate jurisdiction, upon application of Indemnitee and such notice as the court shall require, may order indemnification of Indemnitee by the Company in the following circumstances:

 

(a) if such court determines that Indemnitee is entitled to reimbursement under Section 2-418(d)(1) of the MGCL, the court shall order indemnification, in which case Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover the Expenses of securing such reimbursement; or

 

(b) if such court determines that Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances, whether or not Indemnitee (i) has met the standards of conduct set forth in Section 2-418(b) of the MGCL or (ii) has been adjudged liable for receipt of an improper personal benefit under Section 2-418(c) of the MGCL, the court may order such indemnification as the court shall deem proper without regard to any limitation on such court-ordered indemnification contemplated by Section 2-418(d)(2)(ii) of the MGCL.

 

Section 7. Indemnification for Expenses of an Indemnitee Who is Wholly or Partially Successful . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and without limiting any such provision, to the extent that Indemnitee was or is, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a party to (or otherwise becomes a participant in) any Proceeding and is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful, on the merits or otherwise, as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee under this Section 7 for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with each such claim, issue or matter, allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. For purposes of this Section 7 and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

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Section 8. Advance of Expenses for Indemnitee . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall, without requiring a preliminary determination of Indemnitee’s ultimate entitlement to indemnification hereunder, advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of Indemnitee in connection with such Proceeding. The Company shall make such advance of incurred Expenses within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advance from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding, which advance may be in the form of, in the reasonable discretion of Indemnitee (but without duplication), (a) payment of such Expenses directly to third parties on behalf of Indemnitee, (b) advance of funds to Indemnitee in an amount sufficient to pay such Expenses or (c) reimbursement to Indemnitee for Indemnitee’s payment of such Expenses. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee and shall include or be preceded or accompanied by a written affirmation by Indemnitee and a written undertaking by or on behalf of Indemnitee, in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of the execution thereof. To the extent that Expenses advanced to Indemnitee do not relate to a specific claim, issue or matter in the Proceeding, such Expenses shall be allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. The undertaking required by this Section 8 shall be an unlimited general obligation by or on behalf of Indemnitee and shall be accepted without reference to Indemnitee’s financial ability to repay such advanced Expenses and without any requirement to post security therefor.

 

Section 9. Indemnification and Advance of Expenses as a Witness or Other Participant . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee is or may be, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a witness or otherwise asked to participate in any Proceeding, whether instituted by the Company or any other person, and to which Indemnitee is not a party, Indemnitee shall be advanced and indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting any such advance or indemnification from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee. In connection with any such advance of Expenses, the Company may require Indemnitee to provide an undertaking and affirmation substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of execution thereof.

 

Section 10. Procedure for Determination of Entitlement to Indemnification .

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request, including therein or therewith such documentation and information as is reasonably available to Indemnitee and is reasonably necessary or appropriate to determine whether and to what extent Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification. Indemnitee may submit one or more such requests from time to time and at such time(s) as Indemnitee deems appropriate in Indemnitee’s sole discretion. The officer of the Company receiving any such request from Indemnitee shall, promptly upon receipt of such a request for indemnification, advise the Board of Directors in writing that Indemnitee has requested indemnification.

 

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(b) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 10(a) above, a determination, if required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement thereto shall promptly be made in the specific case: (i) if a Change in Control has occurred, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee, which Independent Counsel shall be selected by Indemnitee and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; or (ii) if a Change in Control has not occurred, (A) by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors or by the majority vote of a group of Disinterested Directors designated by the Disinterested Directors to make the determination, (B) if Independent Counsel has been selected by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL and approved by Indemnitee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee or (C) if so directed by the Board of Directors, by the stockholders of the Company, other than directors or officers who are parties to the Proceeding. If it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall make payment to Indemnitee within ten days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the person, persons or entity making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such person, persons or entity upon reasonable advance request any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary or appropriate to such determination in the discretion of the Board of Directors or Independent Counsel if retained pursuant to clause (ii)(B) of this Section 10(b). Any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the person, persons or entity making such determination shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company shall indemnify and hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

(c) The Company shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of Independent Counsel, if one is appointed.

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings .

 

(a) In making any determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, the person or persons (including any court having jurisdiction over the matter) making such determination shall presume that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 10(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of overcoming that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, does not create a presumption that Indemnitee did not meet the requisite standard of conduct described herein for indemnification.

 

(c) The knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any other director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or any other director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining any other right to indemnification under this Agreement.

 

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Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee .

 

(a) If (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advance of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement within 60 days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification, (iv) payment of indemnification is not made pursuant to Sections 7 or 9 of this Agreement within ten days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor, or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to any other section of this Agreement or the charter or Bylaws of the Company is not made within ten days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication in an appropriate court located in the State of Maryland, or in any other court of competent jurisdiction, or, at Indemnitee’s option, in an arbitration conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (provided, however, that the Company and the Indemnitee agree to use reasonable efforts to ensure that the arbitrator makes a ruling in any such arbitration under this Section 12(a) within 60 days of the commencement of such arbitration), of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification or advance of Expenses. Indemnitee shall commence a proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not apply to a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under Section 7 of this Agreement. Except as set forth herein, the provisions of Maryland law (without regard to its conflicts of laws rules) shall apply to any such arbitration. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

(b) In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall be presumed to be entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be, under this Agreement and the Company shall have the burden of proving that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be. If Indemnitee commences a judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall not be required to reimburse the Company for any advances pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement until a final determination is made with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification (as to which all rights of appeal have been exhausted or lapsed). The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

(c) If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification that was not disclosed in connection with the determination.

 

(d) In the event that Indemnitee is successful in seeking, pursuant to this Section 12, a judicial adjudication of or an award in arbitration to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under, or to recover damages for breach of, this Agreement, Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover from the Company, and shall be indemnified by the Company for, any and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in such judicial adjudication or arbitration. If it shall be determined in such judicial adjudication or arbitration that Indemnitee is entitled to receive part but not all of the indemnification or advance of Expenses sought, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with such judicial adjudication or arbitration shall be appropriately prorated.

 

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(e) Interest shall be paid by the Company to Indemnitee at the maximum rate allowed to be charged for judgments under the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland for amounts which the Company pays or is obligated to pay for the period (i) commencing with either the tenth day after the date on which the Company was requested to advance Expenses in accordance with Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement or the 60 th day after the date on which the Company was requested to make the determination of entitlement to indemnification under Section 10(b) of this Agreement, as applicable, and (ii) ending on the date such payment is made to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 13. Defense of the Underlying Proceeding .

 

(a) Indemnitee shall notify the Company promptly in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, request or other document relating to any Proceeding which may result in the right to indemnification or the advance of Expenses hereunder and shall include with such notice a description of the nature of the Proceeding and a summary of the facts underlying the Proceeding. The failure to give any such notice shall not disqualify Indemnitee from the right, or otherwise affect in any manner any right of Indemnitee, to indemnification or the advance of Expenses under this Agreement unless the Company’s ability to defend in such Proceeding or to obtain proceeds under any insurance policy is materially and adversely prejudiced thereby, and then only to the extent the Company is thereby actually so prejudiced.

 

(b) Subject to the provisions of the last sentence of this Section 13(b) and of Section 13(c) below, the Company shall have the right to defend Indemnitee in any Proceeding which may give rise to indemnification hereunder; provided, however, that the Company shall notify Indemnitee of any such decision to defend within 15 days following receipt of notice of any such Proceeding under Section 13(a) above. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, consent to the entry of any judgment against Indemnitee or enter into any settlement or compromise with respect to Indemnitee which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, (ii) does not include, as an unconditional term thereof, the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding, which release shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Indemnitee, or (iii) would impose any Expense, judgment, fine, penalty or limitation on Indemnitee. This Section 13(b) shall not apply to a Proceeding brought by Indemnitee under Section 12 of this Agreement.

 

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(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13(b) above, if in a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, (i) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that Indemnitee may have separate defenses or counterclaims to assert with respect to any issue which may not be consistent with other defendants in such Proceeding, (ii) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that an actual or apparent conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest exists between Indemnitee and the Company, or (iii) if the Company fails to assume the defense of such Proceeding in a timely manner, Indemnitee shall be entitled to be represented by separate legal counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company. In addition, if the Company fails to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or in the event that the Company or any other person takes any action to declare this Agreement void or unenforceable, or institutes any Proceeding to deny or to recover from Indemnitee the benefits intended to be provided to Indemnitee hereunder, Indemnitee shall have the right to retain counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company (subject to Section 12(d) of this Agreement), to represent Indemnitee in connection with any such matter.

 

Section 14. Non-Exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Subrogation .

 

(a) The rights of indemnification and advance of Expenses as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the charter or Bylaws of the Company, any agreement or a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors, or otherwise. Unless consented to in writing by Indemnitee, no amendment, alteration or repeal of the charter or Bylaws of the Company, this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal, regardless of whether a claim with respect to such action or inaction is raised prior or subsequent to such amendment, alteration or repeal. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right or remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prohibit the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) In the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

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Section 15. Insurance .

 

(a) The Company will use its reasonable best efforts to acquire directors and officers liability insurance, on terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors, with the advice of counsel, covering Indemnitee or any claim made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status and covering the Company for any indemnification or advance of Expenses made by the Company to Indemnitee for any claims made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status. In the event of a Change in Control, the Company shall maintain in force any and all directors and officers liability insurance policies that were maintained by the Company immediately prior to the Change in Control for a period of six years with the insurance carrier or carriers and through the insurance broker in place at the time of the Change in Control; provided, however, (i) if the carriers will not offer the same policy and an expiring policy needs to be replaced, a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount shall be obtained and (ii) if any replacement insurance carrier is necessary to obtain a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount, such insurance carrier shall have an AM Best rating that is the same or better than the AM Best rating of the existing insurance carrier; provided, further, however, in no event shall the Company be required to expend in the aggregate in excess of 250% of the annual premium or premiums paid by the Company for directors and officers liability insurance in effect on the date of the Change in Control. In the event that 250% of the annual premium paid by the Company for such existing directors and officers liability insurance is insufficient for such coverage, the Company shall spend up to that amount to purchase such lesser coverage as may be obtained with such amount.

 

(b) Without in any way limiting any other obligation under this Agreement, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for any payment by Indemnitee which would otherwise be indemnifiable hereunder arising out of the amount of any deductible or retention and the amount of any excess of the aggregate of all judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding over the coverage of any insurance referred to in Section 15(a). The purchase, establishment and maintenance of any such insurance shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company or Indemnitee under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein, and the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and Indemnitee shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company under any such insurance policies. If, at the time the Company receives notice from any source of a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party or a participant (as a witness or otherwise) the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such Proceeding to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies.

 

(c) The Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Company or any insurance carrier of the Company with respect to any Proceeding.

 

Section 16. Coordination of Payments . The Company shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment of amounts otherwise indemnifiable or payable or reimbursable as Expenses hereunder if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such payment under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise.

 

Section 17. Contribution . If the indemnification provided in this Agreement is unavailable in whole or in part and may not be paid to Indemnitee for any reason, other than for failure to satisfy the standard of conduct set forth in Section 4 or due to the provisions of Section 5, then, with respect to any Proceeding in which the Company is jointly liable with Indemnitee (or would be if joined in such Proceeding), to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying and holding harmless Indemnitee, shall pay, in the first instance, the entire amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for Expenses, judgments, penalties, and/or amounts paid or to be paid in settlement, in connection with any Proceeding without requiring Indemnitee to contribute to such payment, and the Company hereby waives and relinquishes any right of contribution it may have at any time against Indemnitee.

 

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Section 18. Reports to Stockholders . To the extent required by the MGCL, the Company shall report in writing to its stockholders the payment of any amounts for indemnification of, or advance of Expenses to, Indemnitee under this Agreement arising out of a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company with the notice of the meeting of stockholders of the Company next following the date of the payment of any such indemnification or advance of Expenses or prior to such meeting.

 

Section 19. Duration of Agreement; Binding Effect .

 

(a) This Agreement shall continue until and terminate on the later of (i) the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company and (ii) the date that Indemnitee is no longer subject to any actual or possible Proceeding (including any rights of appeal thereto and any Proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement).

 

(b) The indemnification and advance of Expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Agreement shall be binding upon and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns (including any direct or indirect successor by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise to all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company), shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company, and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s spouse, assigns, heirs, devisees, executors and administrators and other legal representatives.

 

(c) The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

(d) The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement, at some later date, may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult to ascertain, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which Indemnitee may be entitled. Indemnitee shall further be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertakings in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that, in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by a court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of such a bond or undertaking.

 

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Section 20. Severability . If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 21. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, (delivery of which may be by facsimile, or via e-mail as a portable document format (.pdf) or other electronic format), each of which will be deemed to be an original, and it will not be necessary in making proof of this Agreement or the terms of this Agreement to produce or account for more than one such counterpart. One such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought shall be sufficient to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 22. Headings . The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 23. Modification and Waiver . No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by both of the parties hereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions hereof (whether or not similar) nor, unless otherwise expressly stated, shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

 

Section 24. Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, on the day of such delivery, or (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, to the address set forth on the signature page hereto.

 

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(b) If to the Company, to:
     
    Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    75 Columbia Avenue
    Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

or to such other address as may have been furnished in writing to Indemnitee by the Company or to the Company by Indemnitee, as the case may be.

 

Section 25. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws rules.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
   
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  INDEMNITEE:
     
  /s/ Jane Gural-Senders
  Name: Jane Gural-Senders
  Address:  

  

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

AFFIRMATION AND UNDERTAKING TO REPAY EXPENSES ADVANCED

 

To: The Board of Directors of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

Re: Affirmation and Undertaking

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

This Affirmation and Undertaking is being provided pursuant to that certain Indemnification Agreement dated the _____ day of______________, 20____, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and the undersigned Indemnitee (the “Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which I am entitled to advance of Expenses in connection with [Description of Proceeding] (the “Proceeding”).

 

Terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings specified in the Indemnification Agreement.

 

I am subject to the Proceeding by reason of my Corporate Status or by reason of alleged actions or omissions by me in such capacity. I hereby affirm my good faith belief that at all times, insofar as I was involved as [a director] [and] [an officer] of the Company, in any of the facts or events giving rise to the Proceeding, I (1) did not act with bad faith or active or deliberate dishonesty, (2) did not receive any improper personal benefit in money, property or services and (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that any act or omission by me was unlawful.

 

In consideration of the advance by the Company for Expenses incurred by me in connection with the Proceeding (the “Advanced Expenses”), I hereby agree that if, in connection with the Proceeding, it is established that (1) an act or omission by me was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (a) was committed in bad faith or (b) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty or (2) I actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, I had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful, then I shall promptly reimburse the portion of the Advanced Expenses relating to the claims, issues or matters in the Proceeding as to which the foregoing findings have been established.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Affirmation and Undertaking on this ___ day of____________________, 20____.

 

  Name:  

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.25

 

INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

THIS INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the 17th day of May, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and Barry Lefkowitz (“Indemnitee”).

 

WHEREAS, at the request of the Company, Indemnitee currently serves as a director of the Company and may, therefore, be subjected to claims, suits or proceedings arising as a result of such service;

 

WHEREAS, as an inducement to Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve in such capacity, the Company has agreed to indemnify Indemnitee and to advance expenses and costs incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any such claims, suits or proceedings, to the maximum extent permitted by law; and

 

WHEREAS, the parties by this Agreement desire to set forth their agreement regarding indemnification and advance of expenses;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement:

 

(a) “Change in Control” means a change in control of the Company occurring after the Effective Date of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or in response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement; provided, however, that, without limitation, such a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred if, after the Effective Date (i) any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 35% or more of the combined voting power of all of the Company’s then-outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors without the prior approval of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such person’s attaining such percentage interest; (ii) the Company is a party to a merger, consolidation, sale of assets, plan of liquidation or other reorganization not approved by at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors then in office, as a consequence of which members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such transaction or event constitute less than a majority of the Board of Directors thereafter; or (iii) at any time, a majority of the members of the Board of Directors are not individuals (A) who were directors as of the Effective Date or (B) whose election by the Board of Directors or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then in office who were directors as of the Effective Date or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved.

 

 

 

 

(b) “Corporate Status” means the status of a person as a present or former director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company. As a clarification and without limiting the circumstances in which Indemnitee may be serving at the request of the Company, service by Indemnitee shall be deemed to be at the request of the Company: (i) if Indemnitee serves or served as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (1) of which a majority of the voting power or equity interest is or was owned directly or indirectly by the Company or (2) the management of which is controlled directly or indirectly by the Company and (ii) if, as a result of Indemnitee’s service to the Company or any of its affiliated entities, Indemnitee is subject to duties to, or required to perform services for, an employee benefit plan or its participants or beneficiaries, including as a deemed fiduciary thereof.

 

(c) “Disinterested Director” means a director of the Company who is not and was not a party to the Proceeding in respect of which indemnification and/or advance of Expenses is sought by Indemnitee and has no financial stake in the outcome of the Proceeding or determination referred to in Section 10 hereof.

 

(d) “Effective Date” means the date set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

(e) “Expenses” means any and all reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and costs, retainers, court costs, arbitration and mediation costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, witness fees, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, federal, state, local or foreign taxes imposed on Indemnitee as a result of the actual or deemed receipt of any payments under this Agreement, ERISA excise taxes and penalties and any other disbursements or expenses incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in or otherwise participating in a Proceeding. Expenses shall also include Expenses incurred in connection with any appeal resulting from any Proceeding, including, without limitation, the premium for, security for and other costs relating to any cost bond, supersedeas bond or other appeal bond or its equivalent and any expenses incurred establishing a right of indemnification.

 

(f) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a member of a law firm, that is experienced in matters of corporation law and neither is, nor in the past five years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company or Indemnitee (or any major shareholder thereof) or any affiliate of either such party in any matter material to either such party (other than with respect to matters concerning Indemnitee under this Agreement or of other indemnitees under similar indemnification agreements), or (ii) any other party to or participant or witness in the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay fees and expenses of Independent Counsel.

 

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(g) “Proceeding” means any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing, claim, demand or discovery request or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought by or in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil (including intentional or unintentional tort claims), criminal, administrative or investigative (formal or informal) nature, including any appeal therefrom, except one pending or completed on or before the Effective Date, unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing by the Company and Indemnitee. If Indemnitee reasonably believes that a given situation may lead to or culminate in the institution of a Proceeding, such situation shall also be considered a Proceeding.

 

Section 2. Services by Indemnitee . Indemnitee serves or will serve in the capacity or capacities set forth in the first WHEREAS clause above. However, this Agreement shall not impose any independent obligation on Indemnitee or the Company to continue Indemnitee’s service to the Company. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any other entity) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 3. General . The Company shall indemnify, and advance Expenses to, Indemnitee (a) as provided in this Agreement and (b) otherwise to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law in effect on the Effective Date and as amended from time to time; provided, however, that no change in Maryland law shall have the effect of reducing the benefits available to Indemnitee hereunder based on Maryland law as in effect on the Effective Date. The rights of Indemnitee provided in this Section 3 shall include, without limitation, the rights set forth in the other sections of this Agreement, including any additional indemnification permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”), including, without limitation, Section 2-418 of the MGCL.

 

Section 4. Standard for Indemnification . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with any such Proceeding unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of Indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) Indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal Proceeding, Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

 

Section 5. Certain Limits on Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement (other than Section 6), Indemnitee shall not be entitled to:

 

(a) indemnification hereunder if the Proceeding was one by or in the right of the Company and Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable to the Company;

 

(b) indemnification hereunder if Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable on the basis that personal benefit in money, property or services was improperly received in any Proceeding charging improper personal benefit to Indemnitee, whether or not involving action in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status; or

 

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(c) indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder if the Proceeding was brought by Indemnitee, unless: (i) the Proceeding was brought to enforce indemnification under this Agreement, and then only to the extent in accordance with and as authorized by Section 12 of this Agreement, or (ii) the Company’s charter or Bylaws, a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors or an agreement approved by the Board of Directors to which the Company is a party expressly provide otherwise.

 

Section 6. Court-Ordered Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, a court of appropriate jurisdiction, upon application of Indemnitee and such notice as the court shall require, may order indemnification of Indemnitee by the Company in the following circumstances:

 

(a) if such court determines that Indemnitee is entitled to reimbursement under Section 2-418(d)(1) of the MGCL, the court shall order indemnification, in which case Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover the Expenses of securing such reimbursement; or

 

(b) if such court determines that Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances, whether or not Indemnitee (i) has met the standards of conduct set forth in Section 2-418(b) of the MGCL or (ii) has been adjudged liable for receipt of an improper personal benefit under Section 2-418(c) of the MGCL, the court may order such indemnification as the court shall deem proper without regard to any limitation on such court-ordered indemnification contemplated by Section 2-418(d)(2)(ii) of the MGCL.

 

Section 7. Indemnification for Expenses of an Indemnitee Who is Wholly or Partially Successful . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and without limiting any such provision, to the extent that Indemnitee was or is, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a party to (or otherwise becomes a participant in) any Proceeding and is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful, on the merits or otherwise, as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee under this Section 7 for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with each such claim, issue or matter, allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. For purposes of this Section 7 and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

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Section 8. Advance of Expenses for Indemnitee . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall, without requiring a preliminary determination of Indemnitee’s ultimate entitlement to indemnification hereunder, advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of Indemnitee in connection with such Proceeding. The Company shall make such advance of incurred Expenses within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advance from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding, which advance may be in the form of, in the reasonable discretion of Indemnitee (but without duplication), (a) payment of such Expenses directly to third parties on behalf of Indemnitee, (b) advance of funds to Indemnitee in an amount sufficient to pay such Expenses or (c) reimbursement to Indemnitee for Indemnitee’s payment of such Expenses. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee and shall include or be preceded or accompanied by a written affirmation by Indemnitee and a written undertaking by or on behalf of Indemnitee, in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of the execution thereof. To the extent that Expenses advanced to Indemnitee do not relate to a specific claim, issue or matter in the Proceeding, such Expenses shall be allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. The undertaking required by this Section 8 shall be an unlimited general obligation by or on behalf of Indemnitee and shall be accepted without reference to Indemnitee’s financial ability to repay such advanced Expenses and without any requirement to post security therefor.

 

Section 9. Indemnification and Advance of Expenses as a Witness or Other Participant . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee is or may be, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a witness or otherwise asked to participate in any Proceeding, whether instituted by the Company or any other person, and to which Indemnitee is not a party, Indemnitee shall be advanced and indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting any such advance or indemnification from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee. In connection with any such advance of Expenses, the Company may require Indemnitee to provide an undertaking and affirmation substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of execution thereof.

 

Section 10. Procedure for Determination of Entitlement to Indemnification .

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request, including therein or therewith such documentation and information as is reasonably available to Indemnitee and is reasonably necessary or appropriate to determine whether and to what extent Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification. Indemnitee may submit one or more such requests from time to time and at such time(s) as Indemnitee deems appropriate in Indemnitee’s sole discretion. The officer of the Company receiving any such request from Indemnitee shall, promptly upon receipt of such a request for indemnification, advise the Board of Directors in writing that Indemnitee has requested indemnification.

 

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(b) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 10(a) above, a determination, if required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement thereto shall promptly be made in the specific case: (i) if a Change in Control has occurred, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee, which Independent Counsel shall be selected by Indemnitee and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; or (ii) if a Change in Control has not occurred, (A) by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors or by the majority vote of a group of Disinterested Directors designated by the Disinterested Directors to make the determination, (B) if Independent Counsel has been selected by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL and approved by Indemnitee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee or (C) if so directed by the Board of Directors, by the stockholders of the Company, other than directors or officers who are parties to the Proceeding. If it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall make payment to Indemnitee within ten days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the person, persons or entity making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such person, persons or entity upon reasonable advance request any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary or appropriate to such determination in the discretion of the Board of Directors or Independent Counsel if retained pursuant to clause (ii)(B) of this Section 10(b). Any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the person, persons or entity making such determination shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company shall indemnify and hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

(c) The Company shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of Independent Counsel, if one is appointed.

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings .

 

(a) In making any determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, the person or persons (including any court having jurisdiction over the matter) making such determination shall presume that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 10(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of overcoming that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, does not create a presumption that Indemnitee did not meet the requisite standard of conduct described herein for indemnification.

 

(c) The knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any other director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or any other director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining any other right to indemnification under this Agreement.

 

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Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee .

 

(a) If (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advance of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement within 60 days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification, (iv) payment of indemnification is not made pursuant to Sections 7 or 9 of this Agreement within ten days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor, or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to any other section of this Agreement or the charter or Bylaws of the Company is not made within ten days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication in an appropriate court located in the State of Maryland, or in any other court of competent jurisdiction, or, at Indemnitee’s option, in an arbitration conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (provided, however, that the Company and the Indemnitee agree to use reasonable efforts to ensure that the arbitrator makes a ruling in any such arbitration under this Section 12(a) within 60 days of the commencement of such arbitration), of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification or advance of Expenses. Indemnitee shall commence a proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not apply to a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under Section 7 of this Agreement. Except as set forth herein, the provisions of Maryland law (without regard to its conflicts of laws rules) shall apply to any such arbitration. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

(b) In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall be presumed to be entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be, under this Agreement and the Company shall have the burden of proving that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be. If Indemnitee commences a judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall not be required to reimburse the Company for any advances pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement until a final determination is made with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification (as to which all rights of appeal have been exhausted or lapsed). The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

(c) If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification that was not disclosed in connection with the determination.

 

(d) In the event that Indemnitee is successful in seeking, pursuant to this Section 12, a judicial adjudication of or an award in arbitration to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under, or to recover damages for breach of, this Agreement, Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover from the Company, and shall be indemnified by the Company for, any and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in such judicial adjudication or arbitration. If it shall be determined in such judicial adjudication or arbitration that Indemnitee is entitled to receive part but not all of the indemnification or advance of Expenses sought, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with such judicial adjudication or arbitration shall be appropriately prorated.

 

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(e) Interest shall be paid by the Company to Indemnitee at the maximum rate allowed to be charged for judgments under the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland for amounts which the Company pays or is obligated to pay for the period (i) commencing with either the tenth day after the date on which the Company was requested to advance Expenses in accordance with Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement or the 60 th day after the date on which the Company was requested to make the determination of entitlement to indemnification under Section 10(b) of this Agreement, as applicable, and (ii) ending on the date such payment is made to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 13. Defense of the Underlying Proceeding .

 

(a) Indemnitee shall notify the Company promptly in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, request or other document relating to any Proceeding which may result in the right to indemnification or the advance of Expenses hereunder and shall include with such notice a description of the nature of the Proceeding and a summary of the facts underlying the Proceeding. The failure to give any such notice shall not disqualify Indemnitee from the right, or otherwise affect in any manner any right of Indemnitee, to indemnification or the advance of Expenses under this Agreement unless the Company’s ability to defend in such Proceeding or to obtain proceeds under any insurance policy is materially and adversely prejudiced thereby, and then only to the extent the Company is thereby actually so prejudiced.

 

(b) Subject to the provisions of the last sentence of this Section 13(b) and of Section 13(c) below, the Company shall have the right to defend Indemnitee in any Proceeding which may give rise to indemnification hereunder; provided, however, that the Company shall notify Indemnitee of any such decision to defend within 15 days following receipt of notice of any such Proceeding under Section 13(a) above. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, consent to the entry of any judgment against Indemnitee or enter into any settlement or compromise with respect to Indemnitee which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, (ii) does not include, as an unconditional term thereof, the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding, which release shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Indemnitee, or (iii) would impose any Expense, judgment, fine, penalty or limitation on Indemnitee. This Section 13(b) shall not apply to a Proceeding brought by Indemnitee under Section 12 of this Agreement.

 

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(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13(b) above, if in a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, (i) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that Indemnitee may have separate defenses or counterclaims to assert with respect to any issue which may not be consistent with other defendants in such Proceeding, (ii) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that an actual or apparent conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest exists between Indemnitee and the Company, or (iii) if the Company fails to assume the defense of such Proceeding in a timely manner, Indemnitee shall be entitled to be represented by separate legal counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company. In addition, if the Company fails to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or in the event that the Company or any other person takes any action to declare this Agreement void or unenforceable, or institutes any Proceeding to deny or to recover from Indemnitee the benefits intended to be provided to Indemnitee hereunder, Indemnitee shall have the right to retain counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company (subject to Section 12(d) of this Agreement), to represent Indemnitee in connection with any such matter.

 

Section 14. Non-Exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Subrogation .

 

(a) The rights of indemnification and advance of Expenses as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the charter or Bylaws of the Company, any agreement or a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors, or otherwise. Unless consented to in writing by Indemnitee, no amendment, alteration or repeal of the charter or Bylaws of the Company, this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal, regardless of whether a claim with respect to such action or inaction is raised prior or subsequent to such amendment, alteration or repeal. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right or remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prohibit the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) In the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

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Section 15. Insurance .

 

(a) The Company will use its reasonable best efforts to acquire directors and officers liability insurance, on terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors, with the advice of counsel, covering Indemnitee or any claim made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status and covering the Company for any indemnification or advance of Expenses made by the Company to Indemnitee for any claims made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status. In the event of a Change in Control, the Company shall maintain in force any and all directors and officers liability insurance policies that were maintained by the Company immediately prior to the Change in Control for a period of six years with the insurance carrier or carriers and through the insurance broker in place at the time of the Change in Control; provided, however, (i) if the carriers will not offer the same policy and an expiring policy needs to be replaced, a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount shall be obtained and (ii) if any replacement insurance carrier is necessary to obtain a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount, such insurance carrier shall have an AM Best rating that is the same or better than the AM Best rating of the existing insurance carrier; provided, further, however, in no event shall the Company be required to expend in the aggregate in excess of 250% of the annual premium or premiums paid by the Company for directors and officers liability insurance in effect on the date of the Change in Control. In the event that 250% of the annual premium paid by the Company for such existing directors and officers liability insurance is insufficient for such coverage, the Company shall spend up to that amount to purchase such lesser coverage as may be obtained with such amount.

 

(b) Without in any way limiting any other obligation under this Agreement, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for any payment by Indemnitee which would otherwise be indemnifiable hereunder arising out of the amount of any deductible or retention and the amount of any excess of the aggregate of all judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding over the coverage of any insurance referred to in Section 15(a). The purchase, establishment and maintenance of any such insurance shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company or Indemnitee under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein, and the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and Indemnitee shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company under any such insurance policies. If, at the time the Company receives notice from any source of a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party or a participant (as a witness or otherwise) the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such Proceeding to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies.

 

(c) The Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Company or any insurance carrier of the Company with respect to any Proceeding.

 

Section 16. Coordination of Payments . The Company shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment of amounts otherwise indemnifiable or payable or reimbursable as Expenses hereunder if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such payment under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise.

 

Section 17. Contribution . If the indemnification provided in this Agreement is unavailable in whole or in part and may not be paid to Indemnitee for any reason, other than for failure to satisfy the standard of conduct set forth in Section 4 or due to the provisions of Section 5, then, with respect to any Proceeding in which the Company is jointly liable with Indemnitee (or would be if joined in such Proceeding), to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying and holding harmless Indemnitee, shall pay, in the first instance, the entire amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for Expenses, judgments, penalties, and/or amounts paid or to be paid in settlement, in connection with any Proceeding without requiring Indemnitee to contribute to such payment, and the Company hereby waives and relinquishes any right of contribution it may have at any time against Indemnitee.

 

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Section 18. Reports to Stockholders . To the extent required by the MGCL, the Company shall report in writing to its stockholders the payment of any amounts for indemnification of, or advance of Expenses to, Indemnitee under this Agreement arising out of a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company with the notice of the meeting of stockholders of the Company next following the date of the payment of any such indemnification or advance of Expenses or prior to such meeting.

 

Section 19. Duration of Agreement; Binding Effect .

 

(a) This Agreement shall continue until and terminate on the later of (i) the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company and (ii) the date that Indemnitee is no longer subject to any actual or possible Proceeding (including any rights of appeal thereto and any Proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement).

 

(b) The indemnification and advance of Expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Agreement shall be binding upon and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns (including any direct or indirect successor by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise to all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company), shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company, and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s spouse, assigns, heirs, devisees, executors and administrators and other legal representatives.

 

(c) The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

(d) The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement, at some later date, may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult to ascertain, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which Indemnitee may be entitled. Indemnitee shall further be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertakings in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that, in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by a court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of such a bond or undertaking.

 

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Section 20. Severability . If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 21. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, (delivery of which may be by facsimile, or via e-mail as a portable document format (.pdf) or other electronic format), each of which will be deemed to be an original, and it will not be necessary in making proof of this Agreement or the terms of this Agreement to produce or account for more than one such counterpart. One such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought shall be sufficient to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 22. Headings . The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 23. Modification and Waiver . No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by both of the parties hereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions hereof (whether or not similar) nor, unless otherwise expressly stated, shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

 

Section 24. Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, on the day of such delivery, or (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, to the address set forth on the signature page hereto.

 

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(b) If to the Company, to:
     
    Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    75 Columbia Avenue
    Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

 

or to such other address as may have been furnished in writing to Indemnitee by the Company or to the Company by Indemnitee, as the case may be.

 

Section 25. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws rules.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  INDEMNITEE:
     
 
  Name:
  Address:

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
     
  By:
  Name:
  Title:
     
  INDEMNITEE:
     
  /s/ Barry Lefkowitz
  Name:  Barry Lefkowitz
  Address:  75 Columbia Ave, Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

AFFIRMATION AND UNDERTAKING TO REPAY EXPENSES ADVANCED

 

To: The Board of Directors of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

Re: Affirmation and Undertaking

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

This Affirmation and Undertaking is being provided pursuant to that certain Indemnification Agreement dated the _____ day of _____________, 20____, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and the undersigned Indemnitee (the “Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which I am entitled to advance of Expenses in connection with [Description of Proceeding] (the “Proceeding”).

 

Terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings specified in the Indemnification Agreement.

 

I am subject to the Proceeding by reason of my Corporate Status or by reason of alleged actions or omissions by me in such capacity. I hereby affirm my good faith belief that at all times, insofar as I was involved as [a director] [and] [an officer] of the Company, in any of the facts or events giving rise to the Proceeding, I (1) did not act with bad faith or active or deliberate dishonesty, (2) did not receive any improper personal benefit in money, property or services and (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that any act or omission by me was unlawful.

 

In consideration of the advance by the Company for Expenses incurred by me in connection with the Proceeding (the “Advanced Expenses”), I hereby agree that if, in connection with the Proceeding, it is established that (1) an act or omission by me was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (a) was committed in bad faith or (b) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty or (2) I actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, I had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful, then I shall promptly reimburse the portion of the Advanced Expenses relating to the claims, issues or matters in the Proceeding as to which the foregoing findings have been established.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Affirmation and Undertaking on this ___ day of ____________, 20____.

 

  Name:  

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.26

 

INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

THIS INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the 17th day of May, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and Andrew Spodek (“Indemnitee”).

 

WHEREAS, at the request of the Company, Indemnitee currently serves as an officer of the Company and may, therefore, be subjected to claims, suits or proceedings arising as a result of such service;

 

WHEREAS, as an inducement to Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve in such capacity, the Company has agreed to indemnify Indemnitee and to advance expenses and costs incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any such claims, suits or proceedings, to the maximum extent permitted by law; and

 

WHEREAS, the parties by this Agreement desire to set forth their agreement regarding indemnification and advance of expenses;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement:

 

(a) “Change in Control” means a change in control of the Company occurring after the Effective Date of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or in response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement; provided, however, that, without limitation, such a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred if, after the Effective Date (i) any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 35% or more of the combined voting power of all of the Company’s then-outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors without the prior approval of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such person’s attaining such percentage interest; (ii) the Company is a party to a merger, consolidation, sale of assets, plan of liquidation or other reorganization not approved by at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors then in office, as a consequence of which members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such transaction or event constitute less than a majority of the Board of Directors thereafter; or (iii) at any time, a majority of the members of the Board of Directors are not individuals (A) who were directors as of the Effective Date or (B) whose election by the Board of Directors or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then in office who were directors as of the Effective Date or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved.

 

 

 

 

(b) “Corporate Status” means the status of a person as a present or former director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company. As a clarification and without limiting the circumstances in which Indemnitee may be serving at the request of the Company, service by Indemnitee shall be deemed to be at the request of the Company: (i) if Indemnitee serves or served as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (1) of which a majority of the voting power or equity interest is or was owned directly or indirectly by the Company or (2) the management of which is controlled directly or indirectly by the Company and (ii) if, as a result of Indemnitee’s service to the Company or any of its affiliated entities, Indemnitee is subject to duties to, or required to perform services for, an employee benefit plan or its participants or beneficiaries, including as a deemed fiduciary thereof.

 

(c) “Disinterested Director” means a director of the Company who is not and was not a party to the Proceeding in respect of which indemnification and/or advance of Expenses is sought by Indemnitee and has no financial stake in the outcome of the Proceeding or determination referred to in Section 10 hereof.

 

(d) “Effective Date” means the date set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

(e) “Expenses” means any and all reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and costs, retainers, court costs, arbitration and mediation costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, witness fees, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, federal, state, local or foreign taxes imposed on Indemnitee as a result of the actual or deemed receipt of any payments under this Agreement, ERISA excise taxes and penalties and any other disbursements or expenses incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in or otherwise participating in a Proceeding. Expenses shall also include Expenses incurred in connection with any appeal resulting from any Proceeding, including, without limitation, the premium for, security for and other costs relating to any cost bond, supersedeas bond or other appeal bond or its equivalent and any expenses incurred establishing a right of indemnification.

 

(f) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a member of a law firm, that is experienced in matters of corporation law and neither is, nor in the past five years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company or Indemnitee (or any major shareholder thereof) or any affiliate of either such party in any matter material to either such party (other than with respect to matters concerning Indemnitee under this Agreement or of other indemnitees under similar indemnification agreements), or (ii) any other party to or participant or witness in the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay fees and expenses of Independent Counsel.

 

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(g) “Proceeding” means any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing, claim, demand or discovery request or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought by or in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil (including intentional or unintentional tort claims), criminal, administrative or investigative (formal or informal) nature, including any appeal therefrom, except one pending or completed on or before the Effective Date, unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing by the Company and Indemnitee. If Indemnitee reasonably believes that a given situation may lead to or culminate in the institution of a Proceeding, such situation shall also be considered a Proceeding.

 

Section 2. Services by Indemnitee . Indemnitee serves or will serve in the capacity or capacities set forth in the first WHEREAS clause above. However, this Agreement shall not impose any independent obligation on Indemnitee or the Company to continue Indemnitee’s service to the Company. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any other entity) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 3. General . The Company shall indemnify, and advance Expenses to, Indemnitee (a) as provided in this Agreement and (b) otherwise to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law in effect on the Effective Date and as amended from time to time; provided, however, that no change in Maryland law shall have the effect of reducing the benefits available to Indemnitee hereunder based on Maryland law as in effect on the Effective Date. The rights of Indemnitee provided in this Section 3 shall include, without limitation, the rights set forth in the other sections of this Agreement, including any additional indemnification permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”), including, without limitation, Section 2-418 of the MGCL.

 

Section 4. Standard for Indemnification . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with any such Proceeding unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of Indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) Indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal Proceeding, Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

 

Section 5. Certain Limits on Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement (other than Section 6), Indemnitee shall not be entitled to:

 

(a) indemnification hereunder if the Proceeding was one by or in the right of the Company and Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable to the Company;

 

(b) indemnification hereunder if Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable on the basis that personal benefit in money, property or services was improperly received in any Proceeding charging improper personal benefit to Indemnitee, whether or not involving action in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status; or

 

- 3 -

 

 

(c) indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder if the Proceeding was brought by Indemnitee, unless: (i) the Proceeding was brought to enforce indemnification under this Agreement, and then only to the extent in accordance with and as authorized by Section 12 of this Agreement, or (ii) the Company’s charter or Bylaws, a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors or an agreement approved by the Board of Directors to which the Company is a party expressly provide otherwise.

 

Section 6. Court-Ordered Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, a court of appropriate jurisdiction, upon application of Indemnitee and such notice as the court shall require, may order indemnification of Indemnitee by the Company in the following circumstances:

 

(a) if such court determines that Indemnitee is entitled to reimbursement under Section 2-418(d)(1) of the MGCL, the court shall order indemnification, in which case Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover the Expenses of securing such reimbursement; or

 

(b) if such court determines that Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances, whether or not Indemnitee (i) has met the standards of conduct set forth in Section 2-418(b) of the MGCL or (ii) has been adjudged liable for receipt of an improper personal benefit under Section 2-418(c) of the MGCL, the court may order such indemnification as the court shall deem proper without regard to any limitation on such court-ordered indemnification contemplated by Section 2-418(d)(2)(ii) of the MGCL.

 

Section 7. Indemnification for Expenses of an Indemnitee Who is Wholly or Partially Successful . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and without limiting any such provision, to the extent that Indemnitee was or is, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a party to (or otherwise becomes a participant in) any Proceeding and is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful, on the merits or otherwise, as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee under this Section 7 for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with each such claim, issue or matter, allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. For purposes of this Section 7 and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

Section 8. Advance of Expenses for Indemnitee . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall, without requiring a preliminary determination of Indemnitee’s ultimate entitlement to indemnification hereunder, advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of Indemnitee in connection with such Proceeding. The Company shall make such advance of incurred Expenses within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advance from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding, which advance may be in the form of, in the reasonable discretion of Indemnitee (but without duplication), (a) payment of such Expenses directly to third parties on behalf of Indemnitee, (b) advance of funds to Indemnitee in an amount sufficient to pay such Expenses or

 

(c) reimbursement to Indemnitee for Indemnitee’s payment of such Expenses. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee and shall include or be preceded or accompanied by a written affirmation by Indemnitee and a written undertaking by or on behalf of Indemnitee, in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of the execution thereof. To the extent that Expenses advanced to Indemnitee do not relate to a specific claim, issue or matter in the Proceeding, such Expenses shall be allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. The undertaking required by this Section 8 shall be an unlimited general obligation by or on behalf of Indemnitee and shall be accepted without reference to Indemnitee’s financial ability to repay such advanced Expenses and without any requirement to post security therefor.

 

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Section 9. Indemnification and Advance of Expenses as a Witness or Other Participant . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee is or may be, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a witness or otherwise asked to participate in any Proceeding, whether instituted by the Company or any other person, and to which Indemnitee is not a party, Indemnitee shall be advanced and indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting any such advance or indemnification from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee. In connection with any such advance of Expenses, the Company may require Indemnitee to provide an undertaking and affirmation substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of execution thereof.

 

Section 10. Procedure for Determination of Entitlement to Indemnification .

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request, including therein or therewith such documentation and information as is reasonably available to Indemnitee and is reasonably necessary or appropriate to determine whether and to what extent Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification. Indemnitee may submit one or more such requests from time to time and at such time(s) as Indemnitee deems appropriate in Indemnitee’s sole discretion. The officer of the Company receiving any such request from Indemnitee shall, promptly upon receipt of such a request for indemnification, advise the Board of Directors in writing that Indemnitee has requested indemnification.

 

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(b) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 10(a) above, a determination, if required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement thereto shall promptly be made in the specific case: (i) if a Change in Control has occurred, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee, which Independent Counsel shall be selected by Indemnitee and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; or (ii) if a Change in Control has not occurred, (A) by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors or by the majority vote of a group of Disinterested Directors designated by the Disinterested Directors to make the determination, (B) if Independent Counsel has been selected by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL and approved by Indemnitee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee or (C) if so directed by the Board of Directors, by the stockholders of the Company, other than directors or officers who are parties to the Proceeding. If it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall make payment to Indemnitee within ten days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the person, persons or entity making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such person, persons or entity upon reasonable advance request any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary or appropriate to such determination in the discretion of the Board of Directors or Independent Counsel if retained pursuant to clause (ii)(B) of this Section 10(b). Any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the person, persons or entity making such determination shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company shall indemnify and hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

(c) The Company shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of Independent Counsel, if one is appointed.

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings .

 

(a) In making any determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, the person or persons (including any court having jurisdiction over the matter) making such determination shall presume that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 10(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of overcoming that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, does not create a presumption that Indemnitee did not meet the requisite standard of conduct described herein for indemnification.

 

(c) The knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any other director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or any other director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining any other right to indemnification under this Agreement.

 

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Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee .

 

(a) If (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advance of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement within 60 days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification, (iv) payment of indemnification is not made pursuant to Sections 7 or 9 of this Agreement within ten days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor, or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to any other section of this Agreement or the charter or Bylaws of the Company is not made within ten days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication in an appropriate court located in the State of Maryland, or in any other court of competent jurisdiction, or, at Indemnitee’s option, in an arbitration conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (provided, however, that the Company and the Indemnitee agree to use reasonable efforts to ensure that the arbitrator makes a ruling in any such arbitration under this Section 12(a) within 60 days of the commencement of such arbitration), of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification or advance of Expenses. Indemnitee shall commence a proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not apply to a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under Section 7 of this Agreement. Except as set forth herein, the provisions of Maryland law (without regard to its conflicts of laws rules) shall apply to any such arbitration. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

(b) In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall be presumed to be entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be, under this Agreement and the Company shall have the burden of proving that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be. If Indemnitee commences a judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall not be required to reimburse the Company for any advances pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement until a final determination is made with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification (as to which all rights of appeal have been exhausted or lapsed). The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

(c) If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification that was not disclosed in connection with the determination.

 

(d) In the event that Indemnitee is successful in seeking, pursuant to this Section 12, a judicial adjudication of or an award in arbitration to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under, or to recover damages for breach of, this Agreement, Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover from the Company, and shall be indemnified by the Company for, any and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in such judicial adjudication or arbitration. If it shall be determined in such judicial adjudication or arbitration that Indemnitee is entitled to receive part but not all of the indemnification or advance of Expenses sought, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with such judicial adjudication or arbitration shall be appropriately prorated.

 

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(e) Interest shall be paid by the Company to Indemnitee at the maximum rate allowed to be charged for judgments under the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland for amounts which the Company pays or is obligated to pay for the period (i) commencing with either the tenth day after the date on which the Company was requested to advance Expenses in accordance with Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement or the 60 th day after the date on which the Company was requested to make the determination of entitlement to indemnification under Section 10(b) of this Agreement, as applicable, and (ii) ending on the date such payment is made to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 13. Defense of the Underlying Proceeding .

 

(a) Indemnitee shall notify the Company promptly in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, request or other document relating to any Proceeding which may result in the right to indemnification or the advance of Expenses hereunder and shall include with such notice a description of the nature of the Proceeding and a summary of the facts underlying the Proceeding. The failure to give any such notice shall not disqualify Indemnitee from the right, or otherwise affect in any manner any right of Indemnitee, to indemnification or the advance of Expenses under this Agreement unless the Company’s ability to defend in such Proceeding or to obtain proceeds under any insurance policy is materially and adversely prejudiced thereby, and then only to the extent the Company is thereby actually so prejudiced.

 

(b) Subject to the provisions of the last sentence of this Section 13(b) and of Section 13(c) below, the Company shall have the right to defend Indemnitee in any Proceeding which may give rise to indemnification hereunder; provided, however, that the Company shall notify Indemnitee of any such decision to defend within 15 days following receipt of notice of any such Proceeding under Section 13(a) above. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, consent to the entry of any judgment against Indemnitee or enter into any settlement or compromise with respect to Indemnitee which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, (ii) does not include, as an unconditional term thereof, the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding, which release shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Indemnitee, or (iii) would impose any Expense, judgment, fine, penalty or limitation on Indemnitee. This Section 13(b) shall not apply to a Proceeding brought by Indemnitee under Section 12 of this Agreement.

 

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(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13(b) above, if in a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, (i) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that Indemnitee may have separate defenses or counterclaims to assert with respect to any issue which may not be consistent with other defendants in such Proceeding, (ii) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that an actual or apparent conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest exists between Indemnitee and the Company, or (iii) if the Company fails to assume the defense of such Proceeding in a timely manner, Indemnitee shall be entitled to be represented by separate legal counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company. In addition, if the Company fails to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or in the event that the Company or any other person takes any action to declare this Agreement void or unenforceable, or institutes any Proceeding to deny or to recover from Indemnitee the benefits intended to be provided to Indemnitee hereunder, Indemnitee shall have the right to retain counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company (subject to Section 12(d) of this Agreement), to represent Indemnitee in connection with any such matter.

 

Section 14. Non-Exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Subrogation .

 

(a) The rights of indemnification and advance of Expenses as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the charter or Bylaws of the Company, any agreement or a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors, or otherwise. Unless consented to in writing by Indemnitee, no amendment, alteration or repeal of the charter or Bylaws of the Company, this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal, regardless of whether a claim with respect to such action or inaction is raised prior or subsequent to such amendment, alteration or repeal. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right or remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prohibit the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) In the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

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Section 15. Insurance .

 

(a) The Company will use its reasonable best efforts to acquire directors and officers liability insurance, on terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors, with the advice of counsel, covering Indemnitee or any claim made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status and covering the Company for any indemnification or advance of Expenses made by the Company to Indemnitee for any claims made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status. In the event of a Change in Control, the Company shall maintain in force any and all directors and officers liability insurance policies that were maintained by the Company immediately prior to the Change in Control for a period of six years with the insurance carrier or carriers and through the insurance broker in place at the time of the Change in Control; provided, however, (i) if the carriers will not offer the same policy and an expiring policy needs to be replaced, a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount shall be obtained and (ii) if any replacement insurance carrier is necessary to obtain a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount, such insurance carrier shall have an AM Best rating that is the same or better than the AM Best rating of the existing insurance carrier; provided, further, however, in no event shall the Company be required to expend in the aggregate in excess of 250% of the annual premium or premiums paid by the Company for directors and officers liability insurance in effect on the date of the Change in Control. In the event that 250% of the annual premium paid by the Company for such existing directors and officers liability insurance is insufficient for such coverage, the Company shall spend up to that amount to purchase such lesser coverage as may be obtained with such amount.

 

(b) Without in any way limiting any other obligation under this Agreement, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for any payment by Indemnitee which would otherwise be indemnifiable hereunder arising out of the amount of any deductible or retention and the amount of any excess of the aggregate of all judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding over the coverage of any insurance referred to in Section 15(a). The purchase, establishment and maintenance of any such insurance shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company or Indemnitee under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein, and the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and Indemnitee shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company under any such insurance policies. If, at the time the Company receives notice from any source of a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party or a participant (as a witness or otherwise) the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such Proceeding to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies.

 

(c) The Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Company or any insurance carrier of the Company with respect to any Proceeding.

 

Section 16. Coordination of Payments . The Company shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment of amounts otherwise indemnifiable or payable or reimbursable as Expenses hereunder if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such payment under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise.

 

Section 17. Contribution . If the indemnification provided in this Agreement is unavailable in whole or in part and may not be paid to Indemnitee for any reason, other than for failure to satisfy the standard of conduct set forth in Section 4 or due to the provisions of Section 5, then, with respect to any Proceeding in which the Company is jointly liable with Indemnitee (or would be if joined in such Proceeding), to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying and holding harmless Indemnitee, shall pay, in the first instance, the entire amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for Expenses, judgments, penalties, and/or amounts paid or to be paid in settlement, in connection with any Proceeding without requiring Indemnitee to contribute to such payment, and the Company hereby waives and relinquishes any right of contribution it may have at any time against Indemnitee.

 

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Section 18. Reports to Stockholders . To the extent required by the MGCL, the Company shall report in writing to its stockholders the payment of any amounts for indemnification of, or advance of Expenses to, Indemnitee under this Agreement arising out of a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company with the notice of the meeting of stockholders of the Company next following the date of the payment of any such indemnification or advance of Expenses or prior to such meeting.

 

Section 19. Duration of Agreement; Binding Effect .

 

(a) This Agreement shall continue until and terminate on the later of (i) the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company and (ii) the date that Indemnitee is no longer subject to any actual or possible Proceeding (including any rights of appeal thereto and any Proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement).

 

(b) The indemnification and advance of Expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Agreement shall be binding upon and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns (including any direct or indirect successor by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise to all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company), shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company, and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s spouse, assigns, heirs, devisees, executors and administrators and other legal representatives.

 

(c) The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

(d) The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement, at some later date, may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult to ascertain, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which Indemnitee may be entitled. Indemnitee shall further be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertakings in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that, in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by a court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of such a bond or undertaking.

 

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Section 20. Severability . If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 21. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, (delivery of which may be by facsimile, or via e-mail as a portable document format (.pdf) or other electronic format), each of which will be deemed to be an original, and it will not be necessary in making proof of this Agreement or the terms of this Agreement to produce or account for more than one such counterpart. One such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought shall be sufficient to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 22. Headings . The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 23. Modification and Waiver . No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by both of the parties hereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions hereof (whether or not similar) nor, unless otherwise expressly stated, shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

 

Section 24. Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, on the day of such delivery, or (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, to the address set forth on the signature page hereto.

 

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(b) If to the Company, to:
     
    Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    75 Columbia Avenue
    Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

or to such other address as may have been furnished in writing to Indemnitee by the Company or to the Company by Indemnitee, as the case may be.

 

Section 25. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws rules.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  INDEMNITEE:
     
  /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name:  Andrew Spodek
  Address:  75 Columbia Ave, Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

AFFIRMATION AND UNDERTAKING TO REPAY EXPENSES ADVANCED

 

To: The Board of Directors of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

Re: Affirmation and Undertaking

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

This Affirmation and Undertaking is being provided pursuant to that certain Indemnification Agreement dated the _____ day of ____________, 20____, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and the undersigned Indemnitee (the “Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which I am entitled to advance of Expenses in connection with [Description of Proceeding] (the “Proceeding”).

 

Terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings specified in the Indemnification Agreement.

 

I am subject to the Proceeding by reason of my Corporate Status or by reason of alleged actions or omissions by me in such capacity. I hereby affirm my good faith belief that at all times, insofar as I was involved as [a director] [and] [an officer] of the Company, in any of the facts or events giving rise to the Proceeding, I (1) did not act with bad faith or active or deliberate dishonesty, (2) did not receive any improper personal benefit in money, property or services and (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that any act or omission by me was unlawful.

 

In consideration of the advance by the Company for Expenses incurred by me in connection with the Proceeding (the “Advanced Expenses”), I hereby agree that if, in connection with the Proceeding, it is established that (1) an act or omission by me was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (a) was committed in bad faith or (b) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty or (2) I actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, I had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful, then I shall promptly reimburse the portion of the Advanced Expenses relating to the claims, issues or matters in the Proceeding as to which the foregoing findings have been established.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Affirmation and Undertaking on this ___ day of _________________, 20____.

 

  Name:  

 

 

Exhibit 10.27

 

INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

 

THIS INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of the 17th day of May, 2019, by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and Matt Brandwein (“Indemnitee”).

 

WHEREAS, at the request of the Company, Indemnitee currently serves as an officer of the Company and may, therefore, be subjected to claims, suits or proceedings arising as a result of such service;

 

WHEREAS, as an inducement to Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve in such capacity, the Company has agreed to indemnify Indemnitee and to advance expenses and costs incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any such claims, suits or proceedings, to the maximum extent permitted by law; and

 

WHEREAS, the parties by this Agreement desire to set forth their agreement regarding indemnification and advance of expenses;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

Section 1. Definitions . For purposes of this Agreement:

 

(a) “Change in Control” means a change in control of the Company occurring after the Effective Date of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or in response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement; provided, however, that, without limitation, such a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred if, after the Effective Date (i) any “person” (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act) is or becomes the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 35% or more of the combined voting power of all of the Company’s then-outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors without the prior approval of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such person’s attaining such percentage interest; (ii) the Company is a party to a merger, consolidation, sale of assets, plan of liquidation or other reorganization not approved by at least two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors then in office, as a consequence of which members of the Board of Directors in office immediately prior to such transaction or event constitute less than a majority of the Board of Directors thereafter; or (iii) at any time, a majority of the members of the Board of Directors are not individuals (A) who were directors as of the Effective Date or (B) whose election by the Board of Directors or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then in office who were directors as of the Effective Date or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved.

 

 

 

 

(b) “Corporate Status” means the status of a person as a present or former director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company. As a clarification and without limiting the circumstances in which Indemnitee may be serving at the request of the Company, service by Indemnitee shall be deemed to be at the request of the Company: (i) if Indemnitee serves or served as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (1) of which a majority of the voting power or equity interest is or was owned directly or indirectly by the Company or (2) the management of which is controlled directly or indirectly by the Company and (ii) if, as a result of Indemnitee’s service to the Company or any of its affiliated entities, Indemnitee is subject to duties to, or required to perform services for, an employee benefit plan or its participants or beneficiaries, including as a deemed fiduciary thereof.

 

(c) “Disinterested Director” means a director of the Company who is not and was not a party to the Proceeding in respect of which indemnification and/or advance of Expenses is sought by Indemnitee and has no financial stake in the outcome of the Proceeding or determination referred to in Section 10 hereof.

 

(d) “Effective Date” means the date set forth in the first paragraph of this Agreement.

 

(e) “Expenses” means any and all reasonable and out-of-pocket attorneys’ fees and costs, retainers, court costs, arbitration and mediation costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, witness fees, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, federal, state, local or foreign taxes imposed on Indemnitee as a result of the actual or deemed receipt of any payments under this Agreement, ERISA excise taxes and penalties and any other disbursements or expenses incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in or otherwise participating in a Proceeding. Expenses shall also include Expenses incurred in connection with any appeal resulting from any Proceeding, including, without limitation, the premium for, security for and other costs relating to any cost bond, supersedeas bond or other appeal bond or its equivalent and any expenses incurred establishing a right of indemnification.

 

(f)   “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a member of a law firm, that is experienced in matters of corporation law and neither is, nor in the past five years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company or Indemnitee (or any major shareholder thereof) or any affiliate of either such party in any matter material to either such party (other than with respect to matters concerning Indemnitee under this Agreement or of other indemnitees under similar indemnification agreements), or (ii) any other party to or participant or witness in the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” shall not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement. The Company agrees to pay fees and expenses of Independent Counsel.

 

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(g) “Proceeding” means any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, arbitration, alternate dispute resolution mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing, claim, demand or discovery request or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought by or in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil (including intentional or unintentional tort claims), criminal, administrative or investigative (formal or informal) nature, including any appeal therefrom, except one pending or completed on or before the Effective Date, unless otherwise specifically agreed in writing by the Company and Indemnitee. If Indemnitee reasonably believes that a given situation may lead to or culminate in the institution of a Proceeding, such situation shall also be considered a Proceeding.

 

Section 2. Services by Indemnitee . Indemnitee serves or will serve in the capacity or capacities set forth in the first WHEREAS clause above. However, this Agreement shall not impose any independent obligation on Indemnitee or the Company to continue Indemnitee’s service to the Company. This Agreement shall not be deemed an employment contract between the Company (or any other entity) and Indemnitee.

 

Section 3. General . The Company shall indemnify, and advance Expenses to, Indemnitee (a) as provided in this Agreement and (b) otherwise to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law in effect on the Effective Date and as amended from time to time; provided, however, that no change in Maryland law shall have the effect of reducing the benefits available to Indemnitee hereunder based on Maryland law as in effect on the Effective Date. The rights of Indemnitee provided in this Section 3 shall include, without limitation, the rights set forth in the other sections of this Agreement, including any additional indemnification permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law (the “MGCL”), including, without limitation, Section 2-418 of the MGCL.

 

Section 4. Standard for Indemnification . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee against all judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with any such Proceeding unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of Indemnitee was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) Indemnitee actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal Proceeding, Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

 

Section 5. Certain Limits on Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement (other than Section 6), Indemnitee shall not be entitled to:

 

(a) indemnification hereunder if the Proceeding was one by or in the right of the Company and Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable to the Company;

 

(b) indemnification hereunder if Indemnitee is adjudged, in a final adjudication of the Proceeding not subject to further appeal, to be liable on the basis that personal benefit in money, property or services was improperly received in any Proceeding charging improper personal benefit to Indemnitee, whether or not involving action in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status; or

 

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(c) indemnification or advance of Expenses hereunder if the Proceeding was brought by Indemnitee, unless: (i) the Proceeding was brought to enforce indemnification under this Agreement, and then only to the extent in accordance with and as authorized by Section 12 of this Agreement, or (ii) the Company’s charter or Bylaws, a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors or an agreement approved by the Board of Directors to which the Company is a party expressly provide otherwise.

 

Section 6. Court-Ordered Indemnification . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, a court of appropriate jurisdiction, upon application of Indemnitee and such notice as the court shall require, may order indemnification of Indemnitee by the Company in the following circumstances:

 

(a) if such court determines that Indemnitee is entitled to reimbursement under Section 2-418(d)(1) of the MGCL, the court shall order indemnification, in which case Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover the Expenses of securing such reimbursement; or

 

(b) if such court determines that Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification in view of all the relevant circumstances, whether or not Indemnitee (i) has met the standards of conduct set forth in Section 2-418(b) of the MGCL or (ii) has been adjudged liable for receipt of an improper personal benefit under Section 2-418(c) of the MGCL, the court may order such indemnification as the court shall deem proper without regard to any limitation on such court-ordered indemnification contemplated by Section 2-418(d)(2)(ii) of the MGCL.

 

Section 7. Indemnification for Expenses of an Indemnitee Who is Wholly or Partially Successful . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, and without limiting any such provision, to the extent that Indemnitee was or is, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a party to (or otherwise becomes a participant in) any Proceeding and is successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding but is successful, on the merits or otherwise, as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee under this Section 7 for all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with each such claim, issue or matter, allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. For purposes of this Section 7 and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, shall be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

 

Section 8. Advance of Expenses for Indemnitee . If, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be, made a party to any Proceeding, the Company shall, without requiring a preliminary determination of Indemnitee’s ultimate entitlement to indemnification hereunder, advance all Expenses incurred by or on behalf of Indemnitee in connection with such Proceeding. The Company shall make such advance of incurred Expenses within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advance from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding, which advance may be in the form of, in the reasonable discretion of Indemnitee (but without duplication), (a) payment of such Expenses directly to third parties on behalf of Indemnitee, (b) advance of funds to Indemnitee in an amount sufficient to pay such Expenses or (c)    reimbursement to Indemnitee for Indemnitee’s payment of such Expenses. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee and shall include or be preceded or accompanied by a written affirmation by Indemnitee and a written undertaking by or on behalf of Indemnitee, in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of the execution thereof. To the extent that Expenses advanced to Indemnitee do not relate to a specific claim, issue or matter in the Proceeding, such Expenses shall be allocated on a reasonable and proportionate basis. The undertaking required by this Section 8 shall be an unlimited general obligation by or on behalf of Indemnitee and shall be accepted without reference to Indemnitee’s financial ability to repay such advanced Expenses and without any requirement to post security therefor.

 

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Section 9. Indemnification and Advance of Expenses as a Witness or Other Participant . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, to the extent that Indemnitee is or may be, by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, made a witness or otherwise asked to participate in any Proceeding, whether instituted by the Company or any other person, and to which Indemnitee is not a party, Indemnitee shall be advanced and indemnified against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection therewith within ten days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting any such advance or indemnification from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of such Proceeding. Such statement or statements shall reasonably evidence the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee. In connection with any such advance of Expenses, the Company may require Indemnitee to provide an undertaking and affirmation substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A or in such form as may be required under applicable law as in effect at the time of execution thereof.

 

Section 10. Procedure for Determination of Entitlement to Indemnification .

 

(a) To obtain indemnification under this Agreement, Indemnitee shall submit to the Company a written request, including therein or therewith such documentation and information as is reasonably available to Indemnitee and is reasonably necessary or appropriate to determine whether and to what extent Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification. Indemnitee may submit one or more such requests from time to time and at such time(s) as Indemnitee deems appropriate in Indemnitee’s sole discretion. The officer of the Company receiving any such request from Indemnitee shall, promptly upon receipt of such a request for indemnification, advise the Board of Directors in writing that Indemnitee has requested indemnification.

 

(b) Upon written request by Indemnitee for indemnification pursuant to Section 10(a) above, a determination, if required by applicable law, with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement thereto shall promptly be made in the specific case: (i) if a Change in Control has occurred, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee, which Independent Counsel shall be selected by Indemnitee and approved by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld; or (ii) if a Change in Control has not occurred, (A) by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors or by the majority vote of a group of Disinterested Directors designated by the Disinterested Directors to make the determination, (B) if Independent Counsel has been selected by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 2-418(e)(2)(ii) of the MGCL and approved by Indemnitee, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, by Independent Counsel, in a written opinion to the Board of Directors, a copy of which shall be delivered to Indemnitee or (C) if so directed by the Board of Directors, by the stockholders of the Company, other than directors or officers who are parties to the Proceeding. If it is so determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall make payment to Indemnitee within ten days after such determination. Indemnitee shall cooperate with the person, persons or entity making such determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such person, persons or entity upon reasonable advance request any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary or appropriate to such determination in the discretion of the Board of Directors or Independent Counsel if retained pursuant to clause (ii)(B) of this Section 10(b). Any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the person, persons or entity making such determination shall be borne by the Company (irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification) and the Company shall indemnify and hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom.

 

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(c) The Company shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of Independent Counsel, if one is appointed.

 

Section 11. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings .

 

(a) In making any determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, the person or persons (including any court having jurisdiction over the matter) making such determination shall presume that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 10(a) of this Agreement, and the Company shall have the burden of overcoming that presumption in connection with the making of any determination contrary to that presumption.

 

(b) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, or entry of an order of probation prior to judgment, does not create a presumption that Indemnitee did not meet the requisite standard of conduct described herein for indemnification.

 

(c) The knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any other director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or any other director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining any other right to indemnification under this Agreement.

 

Section 12. Remedies of Indemnitee .

 

(a)   If (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) advance of Expenses is not timely made pursuant to Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement, (iii) no determination of entitlement to indemnification shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement within 60 days after receipt by the Company of the request for indemnification, (iv) payment of indemnification is not made pursuant to Sections 7 or 9 of this Agreement within ten days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor, or (v) payment of indemnification pursuant to any other section of this Agreement or the charter or Bylaws of the Company is not made within ten days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, Indemnitee shall be entitled to an adjudication in an appropriate court located in the State of Maryland, or in any other court of competent jurisdiction, or, at Indemnitee’s option, in an arbitration conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association (provided, however, that the Company and the Indemnitee agree to use reasonable efforts to ensure that the arbitrator makes a ruling in any such arbitration under this Section 12(a) within 60 days of the commencement of such arbitration), of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification or advance of Expenses. Indemnitee shall commence a proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within 180 days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such proceeding pursuant to this Section 12(a); provided, however, that the foregoing clause shall not apply to a proceeding brought by Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under Section 7 of this Agreement. Except as set forth herein, the provisions of Maryland law (without regard to its conflicts of laws rules) shall apply to any such arbitration. The Company shall not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

 

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(b) In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall be presumed to be entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be, under this Agreement and the Company shall have the burden of proving that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advance of Expenses, as the case may be. If Indemnitee commences a judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to this Section 12, Indemnitee shall not be required to reimburse the Company for any advances pursuant to Section 8 of this Agreement until a final determination is made with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification (as to which all rights of appeal have been exhausted or lapsed). The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, be precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and shall stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

(c)   If a determination shall have been made pursuant to Section 10(b) of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company shall be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 12, absent a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification that was not disclosed in connection with the determination.

 

(d) In the event that Indemnitee is successful in seeking, pursuant to this Section 12, a judicial adjudication of or an award in arbitration to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under, or to recover damages for breach of, this Agreement, Indemnitee shall be entitled to recover from the Company, and shall be indemnified by the Company for, any and all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in such judicial adjudication or arbitration. If it shall be determined in such judicial adjudication or arbitration that Indemnitee is entitled to receive part but not all of the indemnification or advance of Expenses sought, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with such judicial adjudication or arbitration shall be appropriately prorated.

 

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(e)   Interest shall be paid by the Company to Indemnitee at the maximum rate allowed to be charged for judgments under the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland for amounts which the Company pays or is obligated to pay for the period (i) commencing with either the tenth day after the date on which the Company was requested to advance Expenses in accordance with Sections 8 or 9 of this Agreement or the 60th day after the date on which the Company was requested to make the determination of entitlement to indemnification under Section 10(b) of this Agreement, as applicable, and (ii) ending on the date such payment is made to Indemnitee by the Company.

 

Section 13. Defense of the Underlying Proceeding .

 

(a) Indemnitee shall notify the Company promptly in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, request or other document relating to any Proceeding which may result in the right to indemnification or the advance of Expenses hereunder and shall include with such notice a description of the nature of the Proceeding and a summary of the facts underlying the Proceeding. The failure to give any such notice shall not disqualify Indemnitee from the right, or otherwise affect in any manner any right of Indemnitee, to indemnification or the advance of Expenses under this Agreement unless the Company’s ability to defend in such Proceeding or to obtain proceeds under any insurance policy is materially and adversely prejudiced thereby, and then only to the extent the Company is thereby actually so prejudiced.

 

(b) Subject to the provisions of the last sentence of this Section 13(b) and of Section 13(c) below, the Company shall have the right to defend Indemnitee in any Proceeding which may give rise to indemnification hereunder; provided, however, that the Company shall notify Indemnitee of any such decision to defend within 15 days following receipt of notice of any such Proceeding under Section 13(a) above. The Company shall not, without the prior written consent of Indemnitee, which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, consent to the entry of any judgment against Indemnitee or enter into any settlement or compromise with respect to Indemnitee which (i) includes an admission of fault of Indemnitee, (ii) does not include, as an unconditional term thereof, the full release of Indemnitee from all liability in respect of such Proceeding, which release shall be in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Indemnitee, or (iii) would impose any Expense, judgment, fine, penalty or limitation on Indemnitee. This Section 13(b) shall not apply to a Proceeding brought by Indemnitee under Section 12 of this Agreement.

 

(c) Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 13(b) above, if in a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, (i) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that Indemnitee may have separate defenses or counterclaims to assert with respect to any issue which may not be consistent with other defendants in such Proceeding, (ii) Indemnitee reasonably concludes, based upon an opinion of counsel approved by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, that an actual or apparent conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest exists between Indemnitee and the Company, or (iii) if the Company fails to assume the defense of such Proceeding in a timely manner, Indemnitee shall be entitled to be represented by separate legal counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company. In addition, if the Company fails to comply with any of its obligations under this Agreement or in the event that the Company or any other person takes any action to declare this Agreement void or unenforceable, or institutes any Proceeding to deny or to recover from Indemnitee the benefits intended to be provided to Indemnitee hereunder, Indemnitee shall have the right to retain counsel of Indemnitee’s choice, subject to the prior approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed, at the expense of the Company (subject to Section 12(d) of this Agreement), to represent Indemnitee in connection with any such matter.

 

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Section 14. Non-Exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Subrogation .

 

(a)   The rights of indemnification and advance of Expenses as provided by this Agreement shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the charter or Bylaws of the Company, any agreement or a resolution of the stockholders entitled to vote generally in the election of directors or of the Board of Directors, or otherwise. Unless consented to in writing by Indemnitee, no amendment, alteration or repeal of the charter or Bylaws of the Company, this Agreement or of any provision hereof shall limit or restrict any right of Indemnitee under this Agreement in respect of any action taken or omitted by such Indemnitee in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status prior to such amendment, alteration or repeal, regardless of whether a claim with respect to such action or inaction is raised prior or subsequent to such amendment, alteration or repeal. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right or remedy shall be cumulative and in addition to every other right or remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, shall not prohibit the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

 

(b) In the event of any payment under this Agreement, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

Section 15. Insurance .

 

(a)   The Company will use its reasonable best efforts to acquire directors and officers liability insurance, on terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the Board of Directors, with the advice of counsel, covering Indemnitee or any claim made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status and covering the Company for any indemnification or advance of Expenses made by the Company to Indemnitee for any claims made against Indemnitee by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status. In the event of a Change in Control, the Company shall maintain in force any and all directors and officers liability insurance policies that were maintained by the Company immediately prior to the Change in Control for a period of six years with the insurance carrier or carriers and through the insurance broker in place at the time of the Change in Control; provided, however, (i) if the carriers will not offer the same policy and an expiring policy needs to be replaced, a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount shall be obtained and (ii) if any replacement insurance carrier is necessary to obtain a policy substantially comparable in scope and amount, such insurance carrier shall have an AM Best rating that is the same or better than the AM Best rating of the existing insurance carrier; provided, further, however, in no event shall the Company be required to expend in the aggregate in excess of 250% of the annual premium or premiums paid by the Company for directors and officers liability insurance in effect on the date of the Change in Control. In the event that 250% of the annual premium paid by the Company for such existing directors and officers liability insurance is insufficient for such coverage, the Company shall spend up to that amount to purchase such lesser coverage as may be obtained with such amount.

 

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(b) Without in any way limiting any other obligation under this Agreement, the Company shall indemnify Indemnitee for any payment by Indemnitee which would otherwise be indemnifiable hereunder arising out of the amount of any deductible or retention and the amount of any excess of the aggregate of all judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding over the coverage of any insurance referred to in Section 15(a). The purchase, establishment and maintenance of any such insurance shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company or Indemnitee under this Agreement except as expressly provided herein, and the execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Company and Indemnitee shall not in any way limit or affect the rights or obligations of the Company under any such insurance policies. If, at the time the Company receives notice from any source of a Proceeding to which Indemnitee is a party or a participant (as a witness or otherwise) the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company shall give prompt notice of such Proceeding to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies.

 

(c)   The Indemnitee shall cooperate with the Company or any insurance carrier of the Company with respect to any Proceeding.

 

Section 16. Coordination of Payments . The Company shall not be liable under this Agreement to make any payment of amounts otherwise indemnifiable or payable or reimbursable as Expenses hereunder if and to the extent that Indemnitee has otherwise actually received such payment under any insurance policy, contract, agreement or otherwise.

 

Section 17. Contribution . If the indemnification provided in this Agreement is unavailable in whole or in part and may not be paid to Indemnitee for any reason, other than for failure to satisfy the standard of conduct set forth in Section 4 or due to the provisions of Section 5, then, with respect to any Proceeding in which the Company is jointly liable with Indemnitee (or would be if joined in such Proceeding), to the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying and holding harmless Indemnitee, shall pay, in the first instance, the entire amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for Expenses, judgments, penalties, and/or amounts paid or to be paid in settlement, in connection with any Proceeding without requiring Indemnitee to contribute to such payment, and the Company hereby waives and relinquishes any right of contribution it may have at any time against Indemnitee.

 

Section 18. Reports to Stockholders . To the extent required by the MGCL, the Company shall report in writing to its stockholders the payment of any amounts for indemnification of, or advance of Expenses to, Indemnitee under this Agreement arising out of a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company with the notice of the meeting of stockholders of the Company next following the date of the payment of any such indemnification or advance of Expenses or prior to such meeting.

 

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Section 19. Duration of Agreement; Binding Effect .

 

(a) This Agreement shall continue until and terminate on the later of (i) the date that Indemnitee shall have ceased to serve as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or as a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company and (ii) the date that Indemnitee is no longer subject to any actual or possible Proceeding (including any rights of appeal thereto and any Proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement).

 

(b) The indemnification and advance of Expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Agreement shall be binding upon and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns (including any direct or indirect successor by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise to all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company), shall continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or a director, trustee, officer, partner, manager, managing member, fiduciary, employee or agent of any other foreign or domestic corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise that such person is or was serving in such capacity at the request of the Company, and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s spouse, assigns, heirs, devisees, executors and administrators and other legal representatives.

 

(c) The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all or a substantial part, of the business and/or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

(d) The Company and Indemnitee agree that a monetary remedy for breach of this Agreement, at some later date, may be inadequate, impracticable and difficult to ascertain, and further agree that such breach may cause Indemnitee irreparable harm. Accordingly, the parties hereto agree that Indemnitee may enforce this Agreement by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance hereof, without any necessity of showing actual damage or irreparable harm and that by seeking injunctive relief and/or specific performance, Indemnitee shall not be precluded from seeking or obtaining any other relief to which Indemnitee may be entitled. Indemnitee shall further be entitled to such specific performance and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the necessity of posting bonds or other undertakings in connection therewith. The Company acknowledges that, in the absence of a waiver, a bond or undertaking may be required of Indemnitee by a court, and the Company hereby waives any such requirement of such a bond or undertaking.

 

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Section 20. Severability . If any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and shall remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions shall be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section, paragraph or sentence of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, void, illegal or otherwise unenforceable) shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

 

Section 21. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, (delivery of which may be by facsimile, or via e-mail as a portable document format (.pdf) or other electronic format), each of which will be deemed to be an original, and it will not be necessary in making proof of this Agreement or the terms of this Agreement to produce or account for more than one such counterpart. One such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought shall be sufficient to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

 

Section 22. Headings . The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute part of this Agreement or to affect the construction thereof.

 

Section 23. Modification and Waiver . No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by both of the parties hereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other provisions hereof (whether or not similar) nor, unless otherwise expressly stated, shall such waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

 

Section 24. Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if (i) delivered by hand and receipted for by the party to whom said notice or other communication shall have been directed, on the day of such delivery, or (ii) mailed by certified or registered mail with postage prepaid, on the third business day after the date on which it is so mailed:

 

(a) If to Indemnitee, to the address set forth on the signature page hereto.

 

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(b) If to the Company, to:
     
    Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
    75 Columbia Avenue
    Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

or to such other address as may have been furnished in writing to Indemnitee by the Company or to the Company by Indemnitee, as the case may be.

 

Section 25. Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Maryland, without regard to its conflicts of laws rules.

 

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST,INC.
     
  By: /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Name: Andrew Spodek
  Title: Chief Executive Officer
     
  INDEMNITEE:

   
 
  Name:
  Address:

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

 

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

 

  POSTAL REALTY TRUST,INC.
     
  By:
  Name:
  Title:       
     
  INDEMNITEE:
   
  /s/ Matt Brandwein
  Name:  Matt Brandwein
  Address:  75 Columbia Ave, Cedarhurst, NY 11516

 

[Signature Page to D&O Indemnification Agreement]

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

AFFIRMATION AND UNDERTAKING TO REPAY EXPENSES ADVANCED

 

To: The Board of Directors of Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

Re: Affirmation and Undertaking

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

This Affirmation and Undertaking is being provided pursuant to that certain Indemnification Agreement dated the               day of                                        20         , by and between Postal Realty Trust, Inc., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), and the undersigned Indemnitee (the “Indemnification Agreement”), pursuant to which I am entitled to advance of Expenses in connection with [Description of Proceeding] (the “Proceeding”).

 

Terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings specified in the Indemnification Agreement.

 

I am subject to the Proceeding by reason of my Corporate Status or by reason of alleged actions or omissions by me in such capacity. I hereby affirm my good faith belief that at all times, insofar as I was involved as [a director] [and] [an officer] of the Company, in any of the facts or events giving rise to the Proceeding, I (1) did not act with bad faith or active or deliberate dishonesty, (2) did not receive any improper personal benefit in money, property or services and (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that any act or omission by me was unlawful.

 

In consideration of the advance by the Company for Expenses incurred by me in connection with the Proceeding (the “Advanced Expenses”), I hereby agree that if, in connection with the Proceeding, it is established that (1) an act or omission by me was material to the matter giving rise to the Proceeding and (a) was committed in bad faith or (b) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty or (2) I actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (3) in the case of any criminal proceeding, I had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful, then I shall promptly reimburse the portion of the Advanced Expenses relating to the claims, issues or matters in the Proceeding as to which the foregoing findings have been established.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have executed this Affirmation and Undertaking on this                   day of                            , 20       .

 

Name:  

 

 

 

Exhibit 10.28

 

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

 

THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT, effective as of the Effective Date (as hereinafter defined) between POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC., a Maryland corporation (the “ Company ”), and Andrew Spodek (the “ Executive ”), recites and provides as follows:

 

WHEREAS , the Company desires to employ the Executive as its Chief Executive Officer, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

NOW, THEREFORE , for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Executive hereby agree as follows:

 

1.  Employment and Duties .

 

(a)  General . The Company shall employ the Executive, and the Executive agrees to be so employed, in the capacity of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer to serve for the Term (as hereinafter defined) hereof, subject to earlier termination as hereinafter provided. The Executive shall have such duties and responsibilities commensurate with such title and as the Board may designate from time to time.  The Executive shall at all times be the highest ranking officer of the Company and shall report exclusively to the Board and/or such committees thereof as the Board may designate. In addition, the Executive shall be appointed to serve as a director on the Board and, at each annual stockholders meeting during the Term of Employment, shall be nominated for re-election to the Board, in each case to the extent not inconsistent with the fiduciary duties of the Board in making such appointment and re-nomination. The Executive shall be based at the Company’s corporate headquarters in Cedarhurst, New York, unless and until the corporate headquarters are moved to another location, which will then be the location where the Executive is based.

 

(b)  Exclusive Services . The Executive shall devote substantially all of the Executive’s business time, attention and effort to the Company’s affairs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive may (i) serve on corporate boards, provided the Executive receives prior permission from the Board; and (ii) serve on corporate, civic and children sports organizations or charitable boards or engage in charitable activities without remuneration therefor, provided that such activity does not contravene the first sentence of this Section.

 

(c)  Dodd-Frank, Sarbanes-Oxley and Other Applicable Law Requirements . The Executive agrees (i) to abide by any compensation recovery, recoupment, anti-hedging or other policy applicable to executives of the Company and its affiliates that is hereafter adopted by the Board or a duly authorized committee thereof to comply with applicable law as required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “ Dodd-Frank Act ”), the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“ Sarbanes-Oxley ”), or other applicable law; and (ii) that the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be deemed automatically and unilaterally amended to the minimum extent necessary to ensure compliance by the Executive and this Agreement with such policies, the Dodd-Frank Act, Sarbanes-Oxley, and any other applicable law.

 

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2.  Term . The Initial Term of the Executive’s employment hereunder (the “ Initial Term ”) shall be for a period of three (3) years commencing on the closing date of the initial public offering of the Company’s Common stock (the “ Effective Date ”), and continuing until the third anniversary of the Effective Date. The term of this Agreement shall be extended automatically for up to two, successive twelve (12) month periods, beginning on the last day of the Initial Term and each twelve (12) month renewal period thereafter unless the Company or the Executive has provided the other with written notice of an intention to terminate this Agreement at least ninety (90) days before the end of the Initial Term (or any subsequent renewal period). For purposes of this Agreement, the word “ Term ” means the Initial Term and any renewal period pursuant to the preceding sentence and any extension pursuant to clause (ii) of the following sentence. Notwithstanding the preceding sentences (i) this Agreement may be terminated earlier as provided herein and (ii) if a Change in Control (as defined in the 2019 Equity Incentive Plan) occurs during the Term, then the Term shall not end before the first anniversary of the Control Change Date or the date this Agreement is terminated earlier as provided herein.

 

3.  Compensation and Benefits .

 

(a)  Base Salary . During the Term, the Company will pay the Executive a base salary of $350,000 per year (“ Base Salary ”), less payroll deductions and all required withholdings, payable in accordance with the Company’s payroll practices and prorated for any partial month of employment. The annual base salary may be increased, but not decreased, by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Compensation Committee ”) in its discretion pursuant to the Company’s policies as in effect from time to time, and such increased amount thereafter will be the Executive’s base salary per year for purposes of this Agreement.

 

(b)  Annual Bonus . The Executive shall also be eligible to receive an annual incentive bonus for each calendar year ending during the Term with a target bonus of 125% of Base Salary, with the actual amount of such bonus to be determined by the Compensation Committee, using such performance measures as mutually agreed upon by the Company and the Executive.  Such bonus, if any, shall be paid to the Executive in the form of a lump sum no later than sixty (60) days after the end of the year to which the bonus relates.  Except as otherwise provided in  Section 4 : (i) the annual bonus will be subject to the terms of any Company bonus plan under which it is granted and (ii) in order to be eligible to receive an annual bonus, the Executive must be employed by the Company on the last day of the calendar year to which the performance relates.

 

(c)  Long-Term Incentives . During the Term of this Agreement, the Executive shall be eligible to participate in the Company’s 2019 Long-Term Incentive Plan, or any other equity compensation plan adopted by the Company, on terms no less favorable than those that apply to similarly situated executive officers of the Company.

 

(d)  Health Insurance and Medical Exam . During the Term of this Agreement, the Company shall (i) provide the Executive and his dependents with health insurance, life insurance and disability coverage no less favorable than that made available to other key executives and (ii) pay or reimburse the Executive for all reasonable costs of an annual medical exam of the Executive by a physician of his choice.

 

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(e)  Paid Time Off .  During the Term of this Agreement, the Executive shall be entitled to paid time off (“ PTO ”) in accordance with the Company’s PTO policy, as it may be amended from time to time, but in no event shall it be less than four weeks per year.

 

(f)  Business Expenses .  The Executive shall be entitled to reimbursement of business expenses that are incurred in the ordinary course of business, in accordance with the applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures of the Company as in effect from time to time.

 

(g)  Other Benefits . In addition to the benefits provided pursuant to the preceding paragraphs of this  Section 3 , the Executive shall be eligible to participate in such other executive compensation and retirement plans of the Company as are applicable generally to other executive officers, and in such welfare plans, programs, practices and policies of the Company as are generally applicable to other executive officers, unless such participation would duplicate, directly or indirectly, benefits already accorded to the Executive. In addition, the Company agrees to reimburse the Executive up to $30,000 per annum for reasonable additional benefits that may cover, amongst other things, life insurance premiums, financial and tax planning assistance, etc.

 

(h)  Indemnification . To the fullest extent permitted by the indemnification provisions of the articles of incorporation (or similar document) and Bylaws of the Company in effect from time to time and the indemnification provisions of the corporate statute of the jurisdiction of the Company’s incorporation in effect from time to time (collectively the “ Indemnification Provisions ”), and in each case subject to the conditions thereof, the Company shall (i) indemnify the Executive, as a director and officer of the Company or a trustee or fiduciary of an employee benefit plan of the Company against all liabilities and reasonable expenses that the Executive may incur in any threatened, pending, or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal or administrative, or investigative and whether formal or informal, because the Executive is or was a director or officer of the Company or a trustee or fiduciary of such employee benefit plan, and against which the Executive may be indemnified by the Company, and (ii) pay for or reimburse the reasonable expenses incurred by the Executive in the defense of any proceeding to which the Executive is a party because the Executive is or was a director or officer of the Company or a trustee or fiduciary of such employee benefit plan. The rights of the Executive under the Indemnification Provisions shall survive the termination of the employment of the Executive by the Company. Additionally, to the extent that the Company maintains a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy (or policies), or an errors and omissions liability insurance policy (or policies), in place covering individuals who are current or former officers or directors of the Company, the Executive shall be entitled to coverage under such policies on the same terms and conditions (including, without limitation, with respect to scope, exclusions, amounts and deductibles) as are available to other senior executives of the Company, while the Executive is employed with the Company and thereafter until the sixth anniversary of the Executive’s termination date. Nothing in this Agreement shall require the Company to purchase or maintain any such insurance policy.

 

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4.  Payments Upon Termination of Employment .

 

(a)  Termination by the Company without Cause, or Termination by the Executive for Good Reason, or Termination Due to the Executive’s Death or Disability .  If during the Term of this Agreement the Executive’s employment is terminated (x) by the Company without Cause or (y) by the Executive for Good Reason or (z) due to the Executive’s death or Disability, then the Executive shall be entitled to the following from the Company: (1) Base Salary accrued through the date of termination, based on the number of days in such year that had elapsed as of the termination date; (2) any accrued but unpaid PTO through the date of termination; (3) any bonuses earned but unpaid with respect to fiscal years or other completed bonus periods preceding the termination date; (4) any vested benefits due to the Executive under the terms of any deferred compensation, incentive or other benefit plans maintained by the Company, payable in accordance with the terms of the applicable plan; (5)  any expenses owed to the Executive under  Sections 3(f) , or  3(g) ; (6) all of the Executive’s outstanding stock options, restricted stock or other equity awards with time-based vesting shall become fully vested and, in the case of stock options, exercisable in full; (7) the treatment of all of the Executive’s outstanding stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units or other equity awards with performance-based vesting shall be determined in accordance with the long-term incentive plan, and any other plans, pursuant to which such awards were granted and the applicable award agreement; (8) a lump sum payment equal to the sum of: (A) three times the Executive’s Base Salary and (B) three times the Executive’s target bonus opportunity for the year within which his employment is terminated (however, if such target opportunity has not been set by the Board or the Compensation Committee as of the Executive’s termination, then this subsection 4(a)(8)(B) shall be equal to three times the Executive’s Base Salary); and (9) a lump sum amount equal to twelve months of the monthly premium payment to continue the Executive’s (and the Executive’s family’s) existing group health, dental coverage and vision, calculated under the applicable provisions of Section 4980B of the Code, and calculated without regard to whether the Executive actually elects such continuation coverage. All payments required to be made pursuant to this Section 4(a) shall be made to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the date of such termination of employment and within any shorter time period required by law.

 

(i) For purposes of this Agreement, “ Cause ” shall mean: (1) the Executive’s intentional failure to perform a material duty as directed by the Board (other than a failure to perform by reason of the Executive’s death or Disability); (2) the Executive’s knowing material breach of an obligation in this Agreement or a knowing breach of a material written policy of the Company; (3) the Executive’s knowing breach of a material duty to the Company; (4) intentional conduct by the Executive that is demonstrably and material injurious to the Company; or (5) the Executive’s conviction of, or plea of guilty or nolo contender to, (y) a felony or (z) a crime involving moral turpitude or fraud involving the assets of the Company. Notwithstanding anything in this Section 4(a)(i) to the contrary, no event or condition described in the foregoing (1) through (4) shall constitute Cause unless (x) within ninety (90) days from the Board first acquiring actual knowledge of the existence of the Cause condition, the Board provides the Executive written notice of its intention to terminate the Executive’s employment for Cause and the grounds for such termination; (y) such grounds for termination (if susceptible to correction) are not corrected by the Executive within thirty (30) days of the Executive’s receipt of such notice (or, in the event that such grounds cannot be corrected within such thirty-day (30 period, the Executive has not taken all reasonable steps within such thirty-day (30) period to correct such grounds as promptly as practicable thereafter); and (z) the Board terminates the Executive’s employment with the Company immediately following expiration of such thirty-day (30) period.  For purposes of the foregoing, any attempt by the Executive to correct a stated Cause shall not be deemed an admission by the Executive that the Board’s assertion of Cause is valid.

 

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(ii) For purposes of this Agreement, “ Good Reason ” shall mean: (1) the assignment of duties materially inconsistent with the Executive’s title and position; (2) a material diminution in the Executive’s annual Base Salary or annual bonus opportunity; (3) a material diminution in the Executive’s authority, duties or responsibilities (e.g., such material diminution includes the Company ceasing to be a reporting company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), or the Company or the Board prevents the Executive from fulfilling or exercising such authority, duties or responsibilities; (4) a material breach by the Company of this Agreement, (5) this Agreement is not assumed by the successor to the Company in a Change in Control transaction or (6) the Company requiring the Executive to be based at any office or location more than fifty miles from Cedarhurst, New York, however, notwithstanding the foregoing to the contrary, any relocation required of the Executive due to the Company relocating its headquarters shall not be deemed to violate this subsection 4(a)(ii)(6) or provide the Executive with rights to Good Reason under this Agreement. No event or condition described in the foregoing shall constitute Good Reason unless, (x) within ninety (90) days from the Executive first acquiring actual knowledge of the existence of the Good Reason condition described in the foregoing, the Executive provides the Board written notice of the Executive’s intention to terminate the Executive’s employment for Good Reason and the grounds for such termination; (y) such grounds for termination (if susceptible to correction) are not corrected by the Board within thirty (30) days of the Board’s receipt of such notice (or, in the event that such grounds cannot be corrected within such thirty-day (30) period, the Board has not taken all reasonable steps within such thirty-day (30) period to correct such grounds as promptly as practicable thereafter); and (z) the Executive terminates the Executive’s employment with the Company immediately following expiration of such thirty-day (30) period. For purposes of the foregoing, any attempt by the Board to correct a stated Good Reason shall not be deemed an admission by the Board that the Executive’s assertion of Good Reason is valid.

 

(iii) For purposes of this Agreement, “ Disability ” shall mean that the Executive has been unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, and the permanence and degree of which shall be supported by medical evidence satisfactory to the Board. The determination of a Disability for purposes of this Agreement shall be made by the Board in its sole and absolute discretion.

 

(b)  Termination of the Executive’s Employment by the Company for Cause, or by the Executive without Good Reason or Upon Expiration of the Term . If the Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company for Cause or by the Executive without Good Reason or upon expiration of the Term without this Agreement being renewed, then the Executive shall only be entitled to the payments set forth in subsections 4(a)(1)-(6) . All payments required to be made pursuant to this subsection 4(b) shall be made to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the date of such termination of employment and within any shorter time period required by law.

 

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(c)  Waiver and Release . Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement to the contrary, the Company shall not make or provide for the payments in Section 4(a) unless the Executive timely executes and delivers to the Company a general release (which shall be provided by the Company not later than five (5) days from the date on which the Executive’s employment is terminated and be substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A , the “ Waiver and Release ”), and such Waiver and Release remains in full force and effect, has not been revoked and is no longer subject to revocation, within sixty (60) calendar days after the date of termination. If the requirements of this Section 4(c) are not satisfied by the Executive (or the Executive’s estate or legally appointed personal representative), then no payments pursuant to Section 4(a) shall be due to the Executive (or the Executive’s estate) pursuant to this Agreement. The foregoing payments subject to this Section 4(c) shall not be paid until the first scheduled payment date following the date the Waiver and Release is executed and no longer subject to revocation; provided , that if the period during which the Executive has discretion to execute or revoke the Waiver and Release straddles two calendar years, then the payments subject to this Section 4(c) shall be paid or commence being paid, as applicable, in the second calendar year, with the first such payment being in an amount equal to the total amount to which the Executive would otherwise have been entitled during the period following the date of termination if such deferral had not been required.

 

(d)  Resignation from Directorships, Officerships and Fiduciary Titles . The termination of the Executive’s employment for any reason shall constitute the Executive’s immediate resignation from (i) any officer or employee position the Executive has with the Company, unless mutually agreed upon by the Executive and the Board; (ii) any position on the Board; and (iii) all fiduciary positions (including as a trustee) the Executive holds with respect to any employee benefit plans or trusts established by the Company. The Executive agrees that this Agreement shall serve as written notice of resignation in this circumstance.

 

5.  Section 280G . Notwithstanding anything else in this Agreement to the contrary, in the event that it shall be determined that any payments or distributions by the Company to or for the benefit of the Executive, whether paid or payable or distributed or distributable pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise (together, the “ Payments ”) would constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code, then the Payments shall be payable either in (i) full or (ii) as to such lesser amount which would result in no portion of such Payments being subject to the excise tax imposed under Section 4999 of the Code, such that the Executive shall receive the greater, on an after-tax basis, of either (i) or (ii) above, as determined by an independent accountant or tax advisor (“ Independent Tax Advisor ”) selected by the Company.  In the event that the Payments are to be reduced pursuant to this  Section 5 , such Payments shall be reduced as determined by the Independent Tax Advisor such that the reduction of compensation to be provided to or for the benefit of the Executive as a result of this  Section 5  is minimized and to effectuate that, Payments shall be reduced (i) by first reducing or eliminating the portion of such Payments which is not payable in cash (other than that portion of such payments that is subject to clause (iii) below), (ii) then by reducing or eliminating cash Payments (other than that portion of such Payments subject to clause (iii) below) and (iii) then by reducing or eliminating the portion of such Payments (whether or not payable in cash) to which Treas. Reg. §1.280G-1 Q/A 24(c) (or any successor provision thereto) applies, in each case in reverse order beginning with Payments which are to be paid the farthest in time from the date of the transaction constituting a change in ownership of the Company within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code.  Any reductions made pursuant to this  Section 5  shall be made in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 409A and where two economically equivalent amounts are subject to reduction but payable at different times, such amounts shall be reduced on a pro rata basis but not below zero. If any dispute arises between the Company (or any successor) and the Executive regarding the Executive’s right to payments under this Section 5 , the Executive shall be entitled to recover his attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in connection with such dispute if the Executive is determined to be the prevailing party.  The following additional terms and conditions shall apply to the reimbursement of any attorneys’ fees and costs: (i) the attorneys’ fees and costs must be incurred by the Executive within five years following the date of the Executive’s termination or resignation; (ii) the attorneys’ fees and costs shall be paid by the Company by the end of the taxable year following the year in which the attorneys’ fees and costs were incurred; (iii) the amount of any attorneys’ fees and costs paid by the Company in one taxable year shall not affect the amount of any attorneys’ fees and costs to be paid by the Company in any other taxable year; and (iv) the Executive’s right to receive attorneys’ fees and costs may not be liquidated or exchanged for any other benefit.

 

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6.  Withholding and Section 409A Compliance .

 

(a)  Withholding . The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, have the right to withhold and deduct from any payment hereunder any federal, state or local taxes of any kind required by law to be withheld with respect to any such payment.

 

(b)  Section 409A of the Code . This Agreement is intended to comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code or an exemption thereunder, and shall be interpreted and construed consistently with such intent.  The payments to the Executive pursuant to this Agreement are intended to be exempt from Section 409A of the Code to the maximum extent possible, under the separation pay exemption, as short-term deferrals, or otherwise.  For purposes of Section 409A of the Code, each installment payment provided under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment.  In the event the terms of this Agreement would subject the Executive to additional income taxes, interest or penalties under Section 409A of the Code (“ 409A Penalties ”), the Company and the Executive shall cooperate diligently to amend the terms of this Agreement to avoid such 409A Penalties, to the extent possible.  To the extent any amounts under this Agreement are payable by reference to the Executive’s “termination,” “termination of employment,” or similar phrases, such term shall be deemed to refer to the Executive’s “separation from service” (as defined in Section 409A of the Code).  Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, including but not limited to  Sections 4 and 5 , if the Executive is a “specified employee” (as defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(b)(i)), then to the extent any amount payable under this Agreement (i) constitutes the payment of nonqualified deferred compensation, within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, (ii) is payable upon the Executive’s separation from service, and (iii) under the terms of this Agreement would be payable prior to the six-month anniversary of the Executive’s separation from service, such payment shall be delayed and paid to the Executive, on the first day of the first calendar month beginning at least six months following the date of termination, or, if earlier, within ninety (90) days following the Executive’s death to the Executive’s surviving spouse (or such other beneficiary as the Executive may designate in writing).  Any reimbursement or advancement payable to the Executive pursuant to this Agreement shall be conditioned on the submission by the Executive of all expense reports reasonably required by the Company under any applicable expense reimbursement policy, and shall be paid to the Executive within thirty (30) days following receipt of such expense reports, but in no event later than the last day of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the Executive incurred the reimbursable expense.  Any amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement, or in-kind benefit provided, during a calendar year shall not affect the amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement, or in-kind benefit to be provided, during any other calendar year.  The right to any reimbursement or in-kind benefit pursuant to this Agreement shall not be subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit.

 

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7.  Protection of Confidential Information . The Executive hereby agrees that, during his employment with the Company and thereafter, he shall not, directly or indirectly, disclose or make available to any person, firm, Company, association or other entity for any reason or purpose whatsoever, any Confidential Information (defined below).  The Executive further agrees that, upon the date of the Executive’s termination, all Confidential Information in his possession that is in written or other tangible form shall be returned to the Company and shall not be retained by the Executive or furnished to any third party, in any form except as provided herein.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 7  shall not apply to Confidential Information that (i) was publicly known at the time of disclosure to the Executive, (ii) becomes publicly known or available thereafter other than by any means in violation of this Agreement or any other duty owed to the Company by the Executive, (iii) is lawfully disclosed to the Executive by a third party, or (iv) is required to be disclosed by law or by any court, arbitrator or administrative or legislative body with actual or apparent jurisdiction to order the Executive to disclose or make accessible any information.  As used in this Agreement, Confidential Information means, without limitation, any non-public confidential or proprietary information disclosed to the Executive or known by the Executive as a consequence of or through the Executive’s relationship with the Company, in any form, including electronic media.  Confidential Information also includes, but is not limited to the Company’s business plans and financial information, marketing plans, and business opportunities.  Nothing herein shall limit in any way any obligation the Executive may have relating to Confidential Information under any other agreement or promise to the Company.

 

The Executive specifically acknowledges that all such Confidential Information, whether reduced to writing, maintained on any form of electronic media, or maintained in the mind or memory of the Executive and whether compiled by the Company, and/or the Executive, derives independent economic value from not being readily known to or ascertainable by proper means by others who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use, that reasonable efforts have been made by the Company to maintain the secrecy of such information, that such information is the sole property of the Company and that any retention and use of such information by the Executive during his employment with the Company (except in the course of performing his duties and obligations to the Company) or after the termination of his employment shall constitute a misappropriation of the Company’s trade secrets.

 

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The Executive agrees that Confidential Information gained by the Executive during the Executive’s association with the Company, has been developed by the Company through substantial expenditures of time, effort and money and constitute valuable and unique property of the Company.  The Executive recognizes that because his work for the Company will bring him into contact with confidential and proprietary information of the Company, the restrictions of this  Section 7  are required for the reasonable protection of the Company and its investments and for the Company’s reliance on and confidence in the Executive.  The Executive further understands and agrees that the foregoing makes it necessary for the protection of the Company’s business that the Executive not compete with the Company during his employment with the Company and not compete with the Company for a reasonable period thereafter, as further provided in the following Section 8 .

 

8.  Covenant Not to Compete . The Executive hereby agrees that he will not, either during the Term or at all times until the earlier of one year from the time his employment ceases or a Change in Control of the Company (such earlier of being, the “ Restricted Period ”), engage in the (i) ownership or operation of post office facilities; (ii) investment in or lending to post office facilities; (iii) management of post office facilities; or (iv) provision of any planning, development or executive services for post office facilities. The Executive will be deemed to be engaged in such competitive business activities if he participates in such a business enterprise as an employee, officer, director, consultant, agent, partner, proprietor, or other participant; provided that the ownership of no more than two percent (2%) of the stock of a publicly traded Company engaged in a competitive business shall not be deemed to be engaging in competitive business activities.

 

During the Restricted Period, the Executive will be prohibited, to the fullest extent allowed by applicable law, from directly or indirectly, individually or on behalf of any person or entity, encouraging, inducing, attempting to induce, recruiting, attempting to recruit, soliciting or attempting to solicit or participating in the recruitment for employment, contractor or consulting opportunities anyone who is employed at that time by the Company or any subsidiary or affiliate.

 

During his employment with the Company and thereafter, the Executive will not make or authorize anyone else to make on the Executive’s behalf any disparaging or untruthful remarks or statements, whether oral or written, about the Company, its operations or its products, services, affiliates, officers, directors, employees, or agents, or issue any communication that reflects adversely on or encourages any adverse action against the Company.  The Executive will not make any direct or indirect written or oral statements to the press, television, radio or other media or other external persons or entities concerning any matters pertaining to the business and affairs of the Company, its affiliates or any of its officers or directors.

 

While employed by the Company and during the Restricted Period, the Executive will communicate the contents of this  Section 8  to any person, firm, association, partnership, Company or other entity that the Executive intends to be employed by, associated with, or represent.

 

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9.  Injunctive Relief . The Executive acknowledges and agrees that it would be difficult to fully compensate the Company for damages resulting from the breach or threatened breach of the covenants set forth in  Sections 7 and 8 of this Agreement and accordingly agrees that the Company shall be entitled to temporary and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the need to post any bond, to enforce such provisions in any action or proceeding instituted in any court in the State of New York having subject matter jurisdiction.  This provision with respect to injunctive relief shall not, however, diminish the Company’s right to claim and recover damages.

 

10.  Notices . All notices or communications hereunder shall be in writing and sent by overnight courier, certified mail, or registered mail (return receipt requested), postage prepaid, addressed as follows (or to such other address as such party may designate in writing from time to time):

 

If to the Company:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
75 Columbia Ave.
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
Attention: Chairman of the Compensation Committee

 

If to the Executive, at the address on file with the Company’s Human Resources department.

 

The actual date of mailing, as shown by a mailing receipt therefor, shall determine the time at which notice was given.

 

11.  Separability . If any provision of this Agreement shall be declared to be invalid or unenforceable, in whole or in part, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect the remaining provisions hereof which shall remain in full force and effect. It is expressly understood and agreed that although the parties consider the restrictions contained in this Agreement to be reasonable, if a court determines that the time or territory or any other restriction contained in this Agreement is an unenforceable restriction on the activities of the Executive, no such provision of this Agreement shall be rendered void but shall be deemed amended to apply as to such maximum time and territory and to such extent as such court may judicially determine or indicate to be reasonable.

 

12.  Assignment . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the heirs and representatives of the Executive and the assigns and successors of the Company, but neither this Agreement nor any rights or obligations hereunder shall be assignable or otherwise subject to hypothecation by the Executive.

 

13.  Entire Agreement . This Agreement represents the entire agreement of the parties and shall supersede any and all previous contracts, arrangements or understandings between the Company and the Executive (including the Prior Employment Agreement).  This Agreement may be amended at any time by mutual written agreement of the parties hereto.

 

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14.  Governing Law and Arbitration . This Agreement shall be construed, interpreted, and governed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to principles of conflicts of laws. Any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or related to this Agreement or any breach of this Agreement shall be submitted to and decided by binding arbitration. Arbitration shall be administered exclusively by the American Arbitration Association and shall be conducted in accordance with the National Rules for the Resolution of Employment Disputes. Any arbitral award determination shall be final and binding upon the parties. Judgment may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall be entitled to seek a restraining order or injunction in any court of competent jurisdiction to prevent any continuation of any violation of Sections 7 or 8 hereof. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement or any other agreement to the contrary, in the event a legal dispute occurs between the Company and the Executive, then the Company shall reimburse the Executive for his legal fees irrespective of whether the Executive is the prevailing party.

 

15.  Survival . Subject to any limits on applicability contained therein, Sections 7 through 10 , Section 12 , and Section 14 hereof shall survive and continue in full force in accordance with their terms notwithstanding any termination of the Term or this Agreement.

 

[SIGNATURES ON NEXT PAGE]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Company has caused this Agreement to be duly executed, and the Executive has hereunto set his hand, as of the day and year first above written.

 

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.   EXECUTIVE  
         
By: /s/ Jeremy Garber     /s/ Andrew Spodek
         
Its: President   Print Name:  Andrew Spodek
         
Dated:  June 26, 2019   Dated: June 26, 2019

   

 

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Exhibit 10.29

 

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

 

THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT, effective as of the Effective Date (as hereinafter defined) between POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC., a Maryland corporation (the “ Company ”), and Jeremy Garber (the “ Executive ”), recites and provides as follows:

 

WHEREAS , the Company desires to employ the Executive as its President, Treasurer and Secretary, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

NOW, THEREFORE , for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Executive hereby agree as follows:

 

1.  Employment and Duties .

 

(a)  General . The Company shall employ the Executive, and the Executive agrees to be so employed, in the capacity of the Company’s President, Treasurer and Secretary to serve for the Term (as hereinafter defined) hereof, subject to earlier termination as hereinafter provided. The Executive shall have such duties and responsibilities commensurate with such title and as the Board or the Chief Executive Officer may designate from time to time.  The Executive shall report to the Chief Executive Officer. The Executive shall be based at the Company’s corporate headquarters in Cedarhurst, New York, unless and until the corporate headquarters are moved to another location, which will then be the location where the Executive is based.

 

(b)  Exclusive Services . The Executive shall devote substantially all of the Executive’s business time, attention and effort to the Company’s affairs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Executive may (i) serve on corporate boards, provided the Executive receives prior permission from the Board; and (ii) serve on corporate, civic and children sports organizations or charitable boards or engage in charitable activities without remuneration therefor, provided that such activity does not contravene the first sentence of this Section.

 

(c)  Dodd-Frank, Sarbanes-Oxley and Other Applicable Law Requirements . The Executive agrees (i) to abide by any compensation recovery, recoupment, anti-hedging or other policy applicable to executives of the Company and its affiliates that is hereafter adopted by the Board or a duly authorized committee thereof to comply with applicable law as required by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the Dodd-Frank Act ), the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 ( Sarbanes-Oxley ), or other applicable law; and (ii) that the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be deemed automatically and unilaterally amended to the minimum extent necessary to ensure compliance by the Executive and this Agreement with such policies, the Dodd-Frank Act, Sarbanes-Oxley, and any other applicable law.

 

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2.  Term . The Initial Term of the Executive’s employment hereunder (the Initial Term ) shall be for a period of three (3) years commencing on the closing date of the initial public offering of the Company’s Common stock (the Effective Date ), and continuing until the third anniversary of the Effective Date. The term of this Agreement shall be extended automatically for up to two, successive twelve (12) month periods, beginning on the last day of the Initial Term and each twelve (12) month renewal period thereafter unless the Company or the Executive has provided the other with written notice of an intention to terminate this Agreement at least ninety (90) days before the end of the Initial Term (or any subsequent renewal period). For purposes of this Agreement, the word Term means the Initial Term and any renewal period pursuant to the preceding sentence and any extension pursuant to clause (ii) of the following sentence. Notwithstanding the preceding sentences (i) this Agreement may be terminated earlier as provided herein and (ii) if a Change in Control (as defined in the 2019 Equity Incentive Plan) occurs during the Term, then the Term shall not end before the first anniversary of the Control Change Date or the date this Agreement is terminated earlier as provided herein.

 

3.  Compensation and Benefits .

 

(a)  Base Salary . During the Term, the Company will pay the Executive a base salary of $290,000 per year ( Base Salary ), less payroll deductions and all required withholdings, payable in accordance with the Company’s payroll practices and prorated for any partial month of employment. The annual base salary may be increased, but not decreased, by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (the Compensation Committee ) in its discretion pursuant to the Company’s policies as in effect from time to time, and such increased amount thereafter will be the Executive’s base salary per year for purposes of this Agreement.

 

(b)  Annual Bonus . The Executive shall also be eligible to receive an annual incentive bonus for each calendar year ending during the Term with a target bonus of 112.5% of Base Salary, with the actual amount of such bonus to be determined by the Compensation Committee, using such performance measures as the Compensation Committee deems to be appropriate.  Such bonus, if any, shall be paid to the Executive in the form of a lump sum no later than sixty (60) days after the end of the year to which the bonus relates.  Except as otherwise provided in  Section 4 : (i) the annual bonus will be subject to the terms of any Company bonus plan under which it is granted and (ii) in order to be eligible to receive an annual bonus, the Executive must be employed by the Company on the last day of the calendar year to which the performance relates.

 

(c)  Long-Term Incentives . During the Term of this Agreement, the Executive shall be eligible to participate in the Company’s 2019 Long-Term Incentive Plan, or any other equity compensation plan adopted by the Company, on terms no less favorable than those that apply to similarly situated executive officers of the Company.

 

(d)  Health Insurance and Medical Exam . During the Term of this Agreement, the Company shall provide the Executive and his dependents with health insurance, life insurance and disability coverage no less favorable than that made available to other key executives.

 

(e)  Paid Time Off .  During the Term of this Agreement, the Executive shall be entitled to paid time off ( PTO ) in accordance with the Company’s PTO policy, as it may be amended from time to time, but in no event shall it be less than four weeks per year.

 

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(f)  Business Expenses .  The Executive shall be entitled to reimbursement of business expenses that are incurred in the ordinary course of business, in accordance with the applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures of the Company as in effect from time to time.

 

(g)  Other Benefits . In addition to the benefits provided pursuant to the preceding paragraphs of this  Section 3 , the Executive shall be eligible to participate in such other executive compensation and retirement plans of the Company as are applicable generally to other executive officers, and in such welfare plans, programs, practices and policies of the Company as are generally applicable to other executive officers, unless such participation would duplicate, directly or indirectly, benefits already accorded to the Executive.

 

(h)  Indemnification . To the fullest extent permitted by the indemnification provisions of the articles of incorporation (or similar document) and Bylaws of the Company in effect from time to time and the indemnification provisions of the corporate statute of the jurisdiction of the Company’s incorporation in effect from time to time (collectively the “ Indemnification Provisions ”), and in each case subject to the conditions thereof, the Company shall (i) indemnify the Executive, as a director and officer of the Company or a trustee or fiduciary of an employee benefit plan of the Company against all liabilities and reasonable expenses that the Executive may incur in any threatened, pending, or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal or administrative, or investigative and whether formal or informal, because the Executive is or was a director or officer of the Company or a trustee or fiduciary of such employee benefit plan, and against which the Executive may be indemnified by the Company, and (ii) pay for or reimburse the reasonable expenses incurred by the Executive in the defense of any proceeding to which the Executive is a party because the Executive is or was a director or officer of the Company or a trustee or fiduciary of such employee benefit plan. The rights of the Executive under the Indemnification Provisions shall survive the termination of the employment of the Executive by the Company. Additionally, to the extent that the Company maintains a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy (or policies), or an errors and omissions liability insurance policy (or policies), in place covering individuals who are current or former officers or directors of the Company, the Executive shall be entitled to coverage under such policies on the same terms and conditions (including, without limitation, with respect to scope, exclusions, amounts and deductibles) as are available to other senior executives of the Company, while the Executive is employed with the Company and thereafter until the sixth anniversary of the Executive’s termination date. Nothing in this Agreement shall require the Company to purchase or maintain any such insurance policy.

 

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4.  Payments Upon Termination of Employment .

  

(a)  Termination by the Company without Cause, or Termination by the Executive for Good Reason, or Termination Due to the Executive’s Death or Disability .  If during the Term of this Agreement the Executive’s employment is terminated (x) by the Company without Cause or (y) by the Executive for Good Reason or (z) due to the Executive’s death or Disability, then the Executive shall be entitled to the following from the Company: (1) Base Salary accrued through the date of termination, based on the number of days in such year that had elapsed as of the termination date; (2) any accrued but unpaid PTO through the date of termination; (3) any bonuses earned but unpaid with respect to fiscal years or other completed bonus periods preceding the termination date; (4) any vested benefits due to the Executive under the terms of any deferred compensation, incentive or other benefit plans maintained by the Company, payable in accordance with the terms of the applicable plan; (5)  any expenses owed to the Executive under  Sections 3(f) , or 3 (g) ; (6) all of the Executive’s outstanding stock options, restricted stock or other equity awards with time-based vesting shall become fully vested and, in the case of stock options, exercisable in full; (7) the treatment of all of the Executive’s outstanding stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units or other equity awards with performance-based vesting shall be determined in accordance with the long-term incentive plan, and any other plans, pursuant to which such awards were granted and the applicable award agreement; (8) a lump sum payment equal to the sum of: (A) one times the Executive’s Base Salary and (B) one times the Executive’s target bonus opportunity for the year within which his employment is terminated (however, if such target opportunity has not been set by the Board or the Compensation Committee as of the Executive’s termination, then this subsection 4(a)(8)(B) shall be equal to one times the Executive’s Base Salary); and (9) a lump sum amount equal to twelve months of the monthly premium payment to continue the Executive’s (and the Executive’s family’s) existing group health, dental coverage and vision, calculated under the applicable provisions of Section 4980B of the Code, and calculated without regard to whether the Executive actually elects such continuation coverage. All payments required to be made pursuant to this Section 4(a) shall be made to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the date of such termination of employment and within any shorter time period required by law.

 

(i) For purposes of this Agreement, “ Cause ” shall mean: (1) the Executive’s failure to perform a material duty as directed by the Board (other than a failure to perform by reason of the Executive’s death or Disability); (2) the Executive’s material breach of an obligation in this Agreement or a breach of a material written policy of the Company; (3) the Executive’s breach of a material duty to the Company; (4) intentional conduct by the Executive that is demonstrably and material injurious to the Company; or (5) the Executive’s conviction of, or plea of guilty or nolo contender to, (y) a felony or (z) a crime involving moral turpitude or fraud involving the assets of the Company. Notwithstanding anything in this Section 4(a)(i) to the contrary, no event or condition described in the foregoing (1) through (4) shall constitute Cause unless (x) within ninety (90) days from the Board first acquiring actual knowledge of the existence of the Cause condition, the Board provides the Executive written notice of its intention to terminate the Executive’s employment for Cause and the grounds for such termination; (y) such grounds for termination (if susceptible to correction) are not corrected by the Executive within thirty (30) days of the Executive’s receipt of such notice (or, in the event that such grounds cannot be corrected within such thirty-day (30 period, the Executive has not taken all reasonable steps within such thirty-day (30) period to correct such grounds as promptly as practicable thereafter); and (z) the Board terminates the Executive’s employment with the Company immediately following expiration of such thirty-day (30) period.  For purposes of the foregoing, any attempt by the Executive to correct a stated Cause shall not be deemed an admission by the Executive that the Board’s assertion of Cause is valid.

 

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(ii) For purposes of this Agreement, “ Good Reason ” shall mean: (1)  the assignment of duties materially inconsistent with the Executive’s title and position; (2) a material diminution in the Executive’s annual Base Salary or annual bonus opportunity; (3) a material diminution in the Executive’s authority, duties or responsibilities ( e.g ., such material diminution includes the Company ceasing to be a reporting company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), or the Company or the Board prevents the Executive from fulfilling or exercising such authority, duties or responsibilities; (4) a material breach by the Company of this Agreement, (5) this Agreement is not assumed by the successor to the Company in a Change in Control transaction or (6) the Company requiring the Executive to be based at any office or location more than fifty miles from Cedarhurst, New York, however, notwithstanding the foregoing to the contrary, any relocation required of the Executive due to the Company relocating its headquarters shall not be deemed to violate this subsection 4(a)(ii)(6) or provide the Executive with rights to Good Reason under this Agreement. No event or condition described in the foregoing shall constitute Good Reason unless, (x) within ninety (90) days from the Executive first acquiring actual knowledge of the existence of the Good Reason condition described in the foregoing, the Executive provides the Board written notice of the Executive’s intention to terminate the Executive’s employment for Good Reason and the grounds for such termination; (y) such grounds for termination (if susceptible to correction) are not corrected by the Board within thirty (30) days of the Board’s receipt of such notice (or, in the event that such grounds cannot be corrected within such thirty-day (30) period, the Board has not taken all reasonable steps within such thirty-day (30) period to correct such grounds as promptly as practicable thereafter); and (z) the Executive terminates the Executive’s employment with the Company immediately following expiration of such thirty-day (30) period. For purposes of the foregoing, any attempt by the Board to correct a stated Good Reason shall not be deemed an admission by the Board that the Executive’s assertion of Good Reason is valid.

 

(iii) For purposes of this Agreement, “ Disability ” shall mean that the Executive has been unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, and the permanence and degree of which shall be supported by medical evidence satisfactory to the Board. The determination of a Disability for purposes of this Agreement shall be made by the Board in its sole and absolute discretion.

 

(b)  Termination of the Executive’s Employment by the Company for Cause, or by the Executive without Good Reason, or Upon Expiration of the Term . If the Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company for Cause or by the Executive without Good Reason or upon expiration of the Term without this Agreement being renewed, then the Executive shall only be entitled to the payments set forth in subsections 4(a)(1)-(6) . All payments required to be made pursuant to this subsection 4(b) shall be made to the Executive within sixty (60) days following the date of such termination of employment and within any shorter time period required by law.

 

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(c)  Waiver and Release . Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement to the contrary, the Company shall not make or provide for the payments in Section 4(a) unless the Executive timely executes and delivers to the Company a general release (which shall be provided by the Company not later than five (5) days from the date on which the Executive’s employment is terminated and be substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A , the “ Waiver and Release ”), and such Waiver and Release remains in full force and effect, has not been revoked and is no longer subject to revocation, within sixty (60) calendar days after the date of termination. If the requirements of this Section 4(c) are not satisfied by the Executive (or the Executive’s estate or legally appointed personal representative), then no payments pursuant to Section 4(a) shall be due to the Executive (or the Executive’s estate) pursuant to this Agreement. The foregoing payments subject to this Section 4(c) shall not be paid until the first scheduled payment date following the date the Waiver and Release is executed and no longer subject to revocation; provided , that if the period during which the Executive has discretion to execute or revoke the Waiver and Release straddles two calendar years, then the payments subject to this Section 4(c) shall be paid or commence being paid, as applicable, in the second calendar year, with the first such payment being in an amount equal to the total amount to which the Executive would otherwise have been entitled during the period following the date of termination if such deferral had not been required.

 

(d)  Resignation from Directorships, Officerships and Fiduciary Titles . The termination of the Executive’s employment for any reason shall constitute the Executive’s immediate resignation from (i) any officer or employee position the Executive has with the Company, unless mutually agreed upon by the Executive and the Board; (ii) any position on the Board; and (iii) all fiduciary positions (including as a trustee) the Executive holds with respect to any employee benefit plans or trusts established by the Company. The Executive agrees that this Agreement shall serve as written notice of resignation in this circumstance.

 

5.  Section 280G . Notwithstanding anything else in this Agreement to the contrary, in the event that it shall be determined that any payments or distributions by the Company to or for the benefit of the Executive, whether paid or payable or distributed or distributable pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or otherwise (together, the “ Payments ”) would constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code, then the Payments shall be payable either in (i) full or (ii) as to such lesser amount which would result in no portion of such Payments being subject to the excise tax imposed under Section 4999 of the Code, such that the Executive shall receive the greater, on an after-tax basis, of either (i) or (ii) above, as determined by an independent accountant or tax advisor (“ Independent Tax Advisor ”) selected by the Company.  In the event that the Payments are to be reduced pursuant to this  Section 5 , such Payments shall be reduced as determined by the Independent Tax Advisor such that the reduction of compensation to be provided to or for the benefit of the Executive as a result of this  Section 5  is minimized and to effectuate that, Payments shall be reduced (i) by first reducing or eliminating the portion of such Payments which is not payable in cash (other than that portion of such payments that is subject to clause (iii) below), (ii) then by reducing or eliminating cash Payments (other than that portion of such Payments subject to clause (iii) below) and (iii) then by reducing or eliminating the portion of such Payments (whether or not payable in cash) to which Treas. Reg. §1.280G-1 Q/A 24(c) (or any successor provision thereto) applies, in each case in reverse order beginning with Payments which are to be paid the farthest in time from the date of the transaction constituting a change in ownership of the Company within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code.  Any reductions made pursuant to this  Section 5  shall be made in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 409A and where two economically equivalent amounts are subject to reduction but payable at different times, such amounts shall be reduced on a pro rata basis but not below zero. If any dispute arises between the Company (or any successor) and the Executive regarding the Executive’s right to payments under this Section 5 , the Executive shall be entitled to recover his attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in connection with such dispute if the Executive is determined to be the prevailing party.  The following additional terms and conditions shall apply to the reimbursement of any attorneys’ fees and costs: (i) the attorneys’ fees and costs must be incurred by the Executive within five years following the date of the Executive’s termination or resignation; (ii) the attorneys’ fees and costs shall be paid by the Company by the end of the taxable year following the year in which the attorneys’ fees and costs were incurred; (iii) the amount of any attorneys’ fees and costs paid by the Company in one taxable year shall not affect the amount of any attorneys’ fees and costs to be paid by the Company in any other taxable year; and (iv) the Executive’s right to receive attorneys’ fees and costs may not be liquidated or exchanged for any other benefit.

 

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6.  Withholding and Section 409A Compliance .

 

(a)  Withholding . The Company shall, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, have the right to withhold and deduct from any payment hereunder any federal, state or local taxes of any kind required by law to be withheld with respect to any such payment.

 

(b)  Section 409A of the Code . This Agreement is intended to comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code or an exemption thereunder, and shall be interpreted and construed consistently with such intent.  The payments to the Executive pursuant to this Agreement are intended to be exempt from Section 409A of the Code to the maximum extent possible, under the separation pay exemption, as short-term deferrals, or otherwise.  For purposes of Section 409A of the Code, each installment payment provided under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment.  In the event the terms of this Agreement would subject the Executive to additional income taxes, interest or penalties under Section 409A of the Code (“ 409A Penalties ”), the Company and the Executive shall cooperate diligently to amend the terms of this Agreement to avoid such 409A Penalties, to the extent possible.  To the extent any amounts under this Agreement are payable by reference to the Executive’s “termination,” “termination of employment,” or similar phrases, such term shall be deemed to refer to the Executive’s “separation from service” (as defined in Section 409A of the Code).  Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, including but not limited to  Sections 4 and 5 , if the Executive is a “specified employee” (as defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(b)(i)), then to the extent any amount payable under this Agreement (i) constitutes the payment of nonqualified deferred compensation, within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, (ii) is payable upon the Executive’s separation from service, and (iii) under the terms of this Agreement would be payable prior to the six-month anniversary of the Executive’s separation from service, such payment shall be delayed and paid to the Executive, on the first day of the first calendar month beginning at least six months following the date of termination, or, if earlier, within ninety (90) days following the Executive’s death to the Executive’s surviving spouse (or such other beneficiary as the Executive may designate in writing).  Any reimbursement or advancement payable to the Executive pursuant to this Agreement shall be conditioned on the submission by the Executive of all expense reports reasonably required by the Company under any applicable expense reimbursement policy, and shall be paid to the Executive within thirty (30) days following receipt of such expense reports, but in no event later than the last day of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the Executive incurred the reimbursable expense.  Any amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement, or in-kind benefit provided, during a calendar year shall not affect the amount of expenses eligible for reimbursement, or in-kind benefit to be provided, during any other calendar year.  The right to any reimbursement or in-kind benefit pursuant to this Agreement shall not be subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit.

 

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7.  Protection of Confidential Information . The Executive hereby agrees that, during his employment with the Company and thereafter, he shall not, directly or indirectly, disclose or make available to any person, firm, Company, association or other entity for any reason or purpose whatsoever, any Confidential Information (defined below).  The Executive further agrees that, upon the date of the Executive’s termination, all Confidential Information in his possession that is in written or other tangible form shall be returned to the Company and shall not be retained by the Executive or furnished to any third party, in any form except as provided herein.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 7  shall not apply to Confidential Information that (i) was publicly known at the time of disclosure to the Executive, (ii) becomes publicly known or available thereafter other than by any means in violation of this Agreement or any other duty owed to the Company by the Executive, (iii) is lawfully disclosed to the Executive by a third party, or (iv) is required to be disclosed by law or by any court, arbitrator or administrative or legislative body with actual or apparent jurisdiction to order the Executive to disclose or make accessible any information.  As used in this Agreement, Confidential Information means, without limitation, any non-public confidential or proprietary information disclosed to the Executive or known by the Executive as a consequence of or through the Executive’s relationship with the Company, in any form, including electronic media.  Confidential Information also includes, but is not limited to the Company’s business plans and financial information, marketing plans, and business opportunities.  Nothing herein shall limit in any way any obligation the Executive may have relating to Confidential Information under any other agreement or promise to the Company.

 

The Executive specifically acknowledges that all such Confidential Information, whether reduced to writing, maintained on any form of electronic media, or maintained in the mind or memory of the Executive and whether compiled by the Company, and/or the Executive, derives independent economic value from not being readily known to or ascertainable by proper means by others who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use, that reasonable efforts have been made by the Company to maintain the secrecy of such information, that such information is the sole property of the Company and that any retention and use of such information by the Executive during his employment with the Company (except in the course of performing his duties and obligations to the Company) or after the termination of his employment shall constitute a misappropriation of the Company’s trade secrets.

 

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The Executive agrees that Confidential Information gained by the Executive during the Executive’s association with the Company, has been developed by the Company through substantial expenditures of time, effort and money and constitute valuable and unique property of the Company.  The Executive recognizes that because his work for the Company will bring him into contact with confidential and proprietary information of the Company, the restrictions of this  Section 7  are required for the reasonable protection of the Company and its investments and for the Company’s reliance on and confidence in the Executive.  The Executive further understands and agrees that the foregoing makes it necessary for the protection of the Company’s business that the Executive not compete with the Company during his employment with the Company and not compete with the Company for a reasonable period thereafter, as further provided in the following Section 8 .

 

8.  Covenant Not to Compete . The Executive hereby agrees that he will not, either during the Term or at all times until the earlier of two years from the time his employment ceases or a Change in Control of the Company (such earlier of being, the “ Restricted Period ”), engage in the (i) ownership or operation of post office facilities; (ii) investment in or lending to post office facilities; (iii) management of post office facilities; or (iv) provision of any planning, development or executive services for post office facilities.  The Executive will be deemed to be engaged in such competitive business activities if he participates in such a business enterprise as an employee, officer, director, consultant, agent, partner, proprietor, or other participant; provided that the ownership of no more than two percent (2%) of the stock of a publicly traded Company engaged in a competitive business shall not be deemed to be engaging in competitive business activities.

 

During the Restricted Period, the Executive will be prohibited, to the fullest extent allowed by applicable law, from directly or indirectly, individually or on behalf of any person or entity, encouraging, inducing, attempting to induce, recruiting, attempting to recruit, soliciting or attempting to solicit or participating in the recruitment for employment, contractor or consulting opportunities anyone who is employed at that time by the Company or any subsidiary or affiliate.

 

During his employment with the Company and thereafter, the Executive will not make or authorize anyone else to make on the Executive’s behalf any disparaging or untruthful remarks or statements, whether oral or written, about the Company, its operations or its products, services, affiliates, officers, directors, employees, or agents, or issue any communication that reflects adversely on or encourages any adverse action against the Company.  The Executive will not make any direct or indirect written or oral statements to the press, television, radio or other media or other external persons or entities concerning any matters pertaining to the business and affairs of the Company, its affiliates or any of its officers or directors.

 

While employed by the Company and during the Restricted Period, the Executive will communicate the contents of this  Section 8  to any person, firm, association, partnership, Company or other entity that the Executive intends to be employed by, associated with, or represent.

 

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9.  Injunctive Relief . The Executive acknowledges and agrees that it would be difficult to fully compensate the Company for damages resulting from the breach or threatened breach of the covenants set forth in  Sections 7 and 8  of this Agreement and accordingly agrees that the Company shall be entitled to temporary and injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions and permanent injunctions, without the need to post any bond, to enforce such provisions in any action or proceeding instituted in any court in the State of New York having subject matter jurisdiction.  This provision with respect to injunctive relief shall not, however, diminish the Company’s right to claim and recover damages.

 

10.  Notices . All notices or communications hereunder shall be in writing and sent by overnight courier, certified mail, or registered mail (return receipt requested), postage prepaid, addressed as follows (or to such other address as such party may designate in writing from time to time):

 

If to the Company:

 

Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
75 Columbia Ave.
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
Attention: Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Compensation Committee

 

If to the Executive, at the address on file with the Company’s Human Resources department.

 

The actual date of mailing, as shown by a mailing receipt therefor, shall determine the time at which notice was given.

 

11.  Separability . If any provision of this Agreement shall be declared to be invalid or unenforceable, in whole or in part, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect the remaining provisions hereof which shall remain in full force and effect. It is expressly understood and agreed that although the parties consider the restrictions contained in this Agreement to be reasonable, if a court determines that the time or territory or any other restriction contained in this Agreement is an unenforceable restriction on the activities of the Executive, no such provision of this Agreement shall be rendered void but shall be deemed amended to apply as to such maximum time and territory and to such extent as such court may judicially determine or indicate to be reasonable.

 

12.  Assignment . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the heirs and representatives of the Executive and the assigns and successors of the Company, but neither this Agreement nor any rights or obligations hereunder shall be assignable or otherwise subject to hypothecation by the Executive.

 

13.  Entire Agreement . This Agreement represents the entire agreement of the parties and shall supersede any and all previous contracts, arrangements or understandings between the Company and the Executive (including the Prior Employment Agreement).  This Agreement may be amended at any time by mutual written agreement of the parties hereto.

 

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14.  Governing Law and Arbitration . This Agreement shall be construed, interpreted, and governed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to principles of conflicts of laws. Any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or related to this Agreement or any breach of this Agreement shall be submitted to and decided by binding arbitration. Arbitration shall be administered exclusively by the American Arbitration Association and shall be conducted in accordance with the National Rules for the Resolution of Employment Disputes. Any arbitral award determination shall be final and binding upon the parties. Judgment may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall be entitled to seek a restraining order or injunction in any court of competent jurisdiction to prevent any continuation of any violation of Sections 7 or 8 hereof.

 

15.  Survival . Subject to any limits on applicability contained therein, Sections 7 through 10 , Section 12 , and Section 14 hereof shall survive and continue in full force in accordance with their terms notwithstanding any termination of the Term or this Agreement.

 

[SIGNATURES ON NEXT PAGE]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Company has caused this Agreement to be duly executed, and the Executive has hereunto set his hand, as of the day and year first above written.

 

POSTAL REALTY TRUST, INC.   EXECUTIVE  
         
By: /s/ Andrew Spodek     /s/ Jeremy Garber
         
Its: Chief Executive Officer   Print Name:  Jeremy Garber
         
Dated:  June 26, 2019   Dated: June 26, 2019

 

 

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Exhibit 31.1

 

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT, AS AMENDED,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

 

I, Andrew Spodek, certify that:

 

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “registrant”) for the period ended March 31, 2019;

 

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flow of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:

 

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under my supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to me by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

(b) Intentionally omitted;

 

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report my conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date:  June 27, 2019 /s/ Andrew Spodek
  Andrew Spodek,
  Chief Executive Officer
  (Principal Executive Officer)
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

 

Exhibit 31.2

 

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT, AS AMENDED,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

 

I, Jeremy Garber, certify that:

 

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the "registrant") for the period ended March 31, 2019;

 

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flow of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:

 

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under my supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to me by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

(b) Intentionally omitted;

  

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report my conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

 

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date:  June 27, 2019

/s/ Jeremy Garber

  Jeremy Garber,
  President, Treasurer and Secretary
  (Principal Financial Officer)
  Postal Realty Trust, Inc.

Exhibit 32.1

 

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

Certificate of Principal Executive Officer

 

In connection with the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Andrew Spodek, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:

 

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

 

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company at the dates and for the periods presented.

 

  Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
   
Date:  June 27, 2019 By:

/s/ Andrew Spodek

    Andrew Spodek
    Chief Executive Officer and Director
    (Principal Executive Officer)

 

This written report is being furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission as an exhibit to the Report. A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and will be retained by Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

Exhibit 32.2

 

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
 

Certificate of Principal Financial Officer

 

In connection with the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Postal Realty Trust, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Jeremy Garber, President, Treasurer and Secretary of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:

 

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

 

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company at the dates and for the periods presented.

 

  Postal Realty Trust, Inc.
   
Date:  June 27, 2019 By:

/s/ Jeremy Garber

    Jeremy Garber
    President, Treasurer and Secretary
     (Principal Financial Officer)

 

This written report is being furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission as an exhibit to the Report. A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and will be retained by Postal Realty Trust, Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.