Sept2012q

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-Q
x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2012

OR

o 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 1-12486
Associated Estates Realty Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

OHIO
 
34-1747603
(State or other jurisdiction of
 
(I.R.S. Employer
 incorporation or organization)
 
Identification Number)

1 AEC Parkway, Richmond Hts., Ohio 44143-1550
(Address of principal executive offices)
(216) 261-5000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
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 x  No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted 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 and post such files). Yes x  No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
 
Large accelerated filer o  Accelerated filer x  Non-accelerated filer o  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) Smaller reporting company o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o  No x
 
The number of shares outstanding as of October 26, 2012 was 49,494,179 shares.



ASSOCIATED ESTATES REALTY CORPORATION

Index
 
Page
PART 1 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
 
 
 
ITEM 1
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 2
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 3
 
 
 
ITEM 4
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 1
 
 
 
ITEM 1A
 
 
 
ITEM 2
 
 
 
ITEM 6
 
 
 

2


PART 1. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
ASSOCIATED ESTATES REALTY CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
September 30,
 
December 31,
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
2012
 
2011
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
Real estate assets
 
 
 
 
Land
 
$
241,159

 
$
195,267

Buildings and improvements
 
1,220,234

 
1,094,145

Furniture and fixtures
 
36,919

 
33,727

Construction in progress
 
7,312

 
22,300

Gross real estate
 
1,505,624

 
1,345,439

Less: Accumulated depreciation
 
(359,826
)
 
(358,605
)
Real estate associated with property held for sale, net
 
3,066

 

Net real estate
 
1,148,864

 
986,834

Cash and cash equivalents
 
4,202

 
4,328

Restricted cash
 
7,584

 
6,901

Accounts receivable, net
 
 
 
 
Rents
 
1,284

 
1,325

Construction
 
139

 
3,692

Other
 
531

 
779

Goodwill
 
1,725

 
1,725

Other assets, net
 
17,677

 
12,909

Total assets
 
$
1,182,006

 
$
1,018,493

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
 
 
 
 
Mortgage notes payable
 
$
432,200

 
$
481,788

Unsecured revolving credit facility
 
167,000

 
58,000

Unsecured term loan
 
125,000

 
125,000

Total debt
 
724,200

 
664,788

Accounts payable and other liabilities
 
34,057

 
28,189

Dividends payable
 
9,583

 
7,659

Resident security deposits
 
3,814

 
3,591

Accrued interest
 
2,337

 
2,710

Total liabilities
 
773,991

 
706,937

Noncontrolling redeemable interest
 
1,734

 
1,734

Equity
 
 
 
 
Common shares, without par value, $.10 stated value; 91,000,000
 
 
 
 
authorized 49,494,583 issued and 49,494,179 outstanding at
 
 
 
 
September 30, 2012 and 46,570,763 issued and
 
 
 
 
42,330,899 outstanding at December 31, 2011, respectively
 
4,949

 
4,657

Paid-in capital
 
633,541

 
583,172

Accumulated distributions in excess of accumulated net income
 
(230,607
)
 
(228,545
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
 
(2,934
)
 
(405
)
Less: Treasury shares, at cost, 404 and 4,239,864 shares
 
 
 
 
at September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively
 
(6
)
 
(50,086
)
Total shareholders' equity attributable to AERC
 
404,943

 
308,793

Noncontrolling interest
 
1,338

 
1,029

Total equity
 
406,281

 
309,822

Total liabilities and equity
 
$
1,182,006

 
$
1,018,493

 
 
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

3


ASSOCIATED ESTATES REALTY CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
Revenue
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property revenue
 
$
45,491

 
$
38,230

 
$
127,241

 
$
109,097

Office revenue
 
350

 

 
663

 

Construction and other services
 

 
5,602

 

 
16,067

Total revenue
 
45,841

 
43,832

 
127,904

 
125,164

Expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property operating and maintenance
 
18,270

 
15,333

 
50,911

 
43,983

Depreciation and amortization
 
14,150

 
12,991

 
39,674

 
37,349

Construction and other services
 
28

 
6,682

 
181

 
17,452

General and administrative
 
3,936

 
3,601

 
12,569

 
11,730

Development costs
 
193

 
81

 
800

 
257

Costs associated with acquisitions
 
282

 
182

 
766

 
303

Total expenses
 
36,859

 
38,870

 
104,901

 
111,074

Operating income
 
8,982

 
4,962

 
23,003

 
14,090

Interest expense
 
(6,978
)
 
(7,883
)
 
(23,083
)
 
(22,718
)
Income (loss) from continuing operations
 
2,004

 
(2,921
)
 
(80
)
 
(8,628
)
Income from discontinued operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income, net of interest expense
 
97

 
532

 
941

 
1,609

Gain on disposition of properties
 

 
14,597

 
22,819

 
14,597

Income from discontinued operations
 
97

 
15,129

 
23,760

 
16,206

Net income
 
2,101

 
12,208

 
23,680

 
7,578

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
(8
)
 
(12
)
 
1

 
(37
)
Net income attributable to AERC
 
$
2,093

 
$
12,196

 
$
23,681

 
$
7,541

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per common share - basic:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations applicable to common shares
 
$
0.04

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$

 
$
(0.21
)
Income from discontinued operations
 

 
0.36

 
0.53

 
0.39

Net income attributable to AERC - basic
 
$
0.04

 
$
0.29

 
$
0.53

 
$
0.18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per common share - diluted:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations applicable to common shares
 
$
0.04

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$

 
$
(0.21
)
Income from discontinued operations
 

 
0.36

 
0.53

 
0.39

Net income attributable to AERC - diluted
 
$
0.04

 
$
0.29

 
$
0.53

 
$
0.18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
2,101

 
$
12,208

 
$
23,680

 
$
7,578

Change in fair value and reclassification of hedge instruments
 
(896
)
 

 
(2,529
)
 

Total comprehensive income
 
1,205

 
12,208

 
21,151

 
7,578

Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
(8
)
 
(12
)
 
1

 
(37
)
Total comprehensive income attributable to AERC
 
$
1,197

 
$
12,196

 
$
21,152

 
$
7,541

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dividends declared per common share
 
$
0.18

 
$
0.17

 
$
0.53

 
$
0.51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average number of common shares
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
outstanding - basic
 
49,461

 
41,697

 
44,924

 
41,458

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average number of common shares
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
outstanding - diluted
 
49,927

 
41,697

 
44,924

 
41,458

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

4


ASSOCIATED ESTATES REALTY CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
September 30,
(In thousands)
 
2012
 
2011
Cash flow from operations:
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
23,680

 
$
7,578

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operations:
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization (including discontinued operations)
 
40,912

 
40,276

Loss on fixed asset replacements write-off
 
68

 
39

Gain on disposition of properties
 
(22,819
)
 
(14,597
)
Amortization of deferred financing costs and other
 
1,515

 
1,457

Share-based compensation
 
2,890

 
2,542

Net change in assets and liabilities:
 
 
 

Construction accounts receivable
 
3,553

 
3,897

Accounts receivable
 
277

 
175

Construction accounts payable
 
(1,678
)
 
(565
)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
3,735

 
3,426

Other operating assets and liabilities
 
(516
)
 
(963
)
Total adjustments
 
27,937

 
35,687

Net cash flow provided by operations
 
51,617

 
43,265

Cash flow from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
Recurring fixed asset additions
 
(6,694
)
 
(6,968
)
Revenue enhancing/non-recurring fixed asset additions
 
(1,311
)
 
(1,509
)
Acquisition fixed asset additions
 
(158,925
)
 
(116,018
)
Development fixed asset additions
 
(44,485
)
 
(15,034
)
Net proceeds from disposition of operating properties
 
57,523

 
28,967

Other investing activity
 
(1,027
)
 
(345
)
Net cash flow used for investing activities
 
(154,919
)
 
(110,907
)
Cash flow from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
Principal amortization payments on mortgage notes payable
 
(2,123
)
 
(1,964
)
Principal repayments of mortgage notes payable
 
(123,448
)
 
(53,317
)
Payment of debt procurement costs
 
(3,469
)
 
(1,457
)
Proceeds from secured mortgages
 
48,513

 
57,982

Proceeds from term loan borrowings
 

 
125,000

Revolving credit facility borrowings
 
468,800

 
207,000

Revolving credit facility repayments
 
(359,800
)
 
(257,500
)
Common share dividends paid
 
(23,549
)
 
(20,956
)
Operating partnership distributions paid
 
(40
)
 
(37
)
Exercise of stock options
 
51

 
793

Issuance of common shares
 
98,355

 
13,330

Purchase of treasury shares
 
(958
)
 
(857
)
Noncontrolling interest investment in partnership
 
350

 

Other financing activities, net
 
494

 
311

Net cash flow provided by financing activities
 
103,176

 
68,328

(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
 
(126
)
 
686

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
 
4,328

 
4,370

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 
$
4,202

 
$
5,056

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
 
 
 
 
Dividends declared but not paid
 
$
9,583

 
$
7,587

Issuance of shares for share-based compensation
 
1,910

 
1,466

Net change in accounts payable related to fixed asset additions
 
1,188

 
(389
)
Mortgage loan assumed
 
27,509

 

 
 
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

5


ASSOCIATED ESTATES REALTY CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
UNAUDITED
1.    BUSINESS
Except as the context otherwise requires, all references to "we," "our," "us," "AERC" and the "Company" in this report collectively refer to Associated Estates Realty Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries.
We are a fully-integrated, self-administered and self-managed equity real estate investment trust ("REIT") specializing in multifamily ownership, operation, acquisition, development, construction, disposition and property management activities. Our primary source of income is rental revenue. We own a taxable REIT subsidiary that performs construction services for our own account in connection with the development of multifamily properties we own and operate. This taxable REIT subsidiary also previously performed construction services for third parties. In 2011, we decided to exit the third party construction services business and our work under all third party construction contracts was substantially completed as of December 31, 2011. As of September 30, 2012, our operating property portfolio consisted of 53 apartment communities containing 14,114 units in ten states that are owned, either directly or indirectly, through subsidiaries. Additionally, in May 2012, in conjunction with our acquisition of land for development of an apartment community, we acquired an office building in Los Angeles, California containing approximately 78,800 square feet of office and retail space.
2.    SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") for interim financial information and applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting only of normal and recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair statement, have been included. The reported results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and accompanying notes in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.
Segment Reporting
Substantially all of our properties are multifamily communities that have similar economic characteristics and offer similar products and services, and as such, our apartment communities have been aggregated into one reportable segment. Management evaluates the performance of our properties on an individual basis. Our subsidiary, Merit Enterprises, Inc. ("Merit"), is a general contractor and construction manager that acts as our in-house construction division. Merit also formerly provided general contracting and construction management services to third parties. We previously reported construction and other services as a separate segment, however, we are no longer engaged in the third party construction business and all third party projects were substantially completed at the end of 2011. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, substantially all of our consolidated revenue was provided by our multifamily properties. As a result, we determined that we have only one reportable segment, which is multifamily properties.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
We have utilized interest rate swaps and caps to add stability to interest expense and to manage our exposure to interest rate movements. Interest rate swaps, designated as cash flow hedges, involve the receipt of variable-rate amounts in exchange for fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying principal amount. Interest rate caps, designated as cash flow hedges, involve the receipt of variable-rate amounts if interest rates rise above a certain level in exchange for an upfront premium.

6


We do not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. Further, we have a policy of only entering into contracts with major financial institutions based upon their credit ratings and other factors. When viewed in conjunction with the underlying and offsetting exposure that the derivatives are designed to hedge, we have not sustained a material loss from these hedges.
We record all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows or other types of forecasted transactions are considered cash flow hedges.
For derivatives designated as fair value hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivative and the hedged item relating to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is initially reported in other comprehensive income (outside of earnings) and, subsequently reclassified to earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings, and the ineffective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is recognized directly in earnings. Hedge ineffectiveness is measured by comparing the changes in fair value or cash flows of the derivative hedging instrument with the changes in fair value or cash flows of the designated hedged item or transaction. For derivatives not designated as hedges, changes in fair value are recognized in earnings. We have elected to measure the credit risk of derivatives that are subject to master netting agreements on a net basis by counterparty portfolio. See Note 11 for additional information related to our derivative and hedging activities.
Real Estate and Depreciation
Real estate assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Buildings and improvements
5 - 30 years
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
5 - 10 years
We capitalize replacements and improvements, such as HVAC equipment, structural replacements, windows, appliances, flooring, carpeting, kitchen/bath replacements and renovations. Ordinary repairs and maintenance, such as unit cleaning, painting and appliance repairs, are expensed when incurred.
We allocate the purchase price of properties acquired to net tangible and identified intangible assets acquired based on their fair values. In making estimates of fair values for purposes of allocating purchase price, we utilize a number of sources, including analysis provided by an adviser, independent appraisals that may be obtained in connection with the acquisition or financing of the respective property, our own analysis of recently acquired and existing comparable properties in our portfolio and other market data. The intangible assets are amortized over the remaining lease terms or estimated life of the tenant relationship, which is approximately 12 months for residential leases. Due to the short term nature of residential leases, we believe that existing lease rates approximate market rates; therefore, no allocation is made for above/below market leases. The intangible assets associated with one commercial lease are being amortized over the life of the lease, which is 60 months.
For properties under development, we capitalize interest costs on funds used in construction, real estate taxes and insurance from the commencement of development activity through the time the property is ready for leasing. We capitalize internal payroll costs directly attributable to the construction of a property or asset. Capitalized payroll costs are allocated to projects based upon time incurred by the applicable personnel. Capitalized costs related to development and construction are transferred to buildings and improvements and/or furniture and fixtures, as applicable, upon substantial completion of the project. Total capitalized interest during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, was $410,000 and $1.0 million, respectively. Total capitalized interest during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, was $200,000 and $468,000, respectively. Total capitalized payroll costs during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, were $670,000 and $1.7 million, respectively. Total capitalized payroll costs during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, were $200,000 and $630,000, respectively.

7


We discontinue the depreciation of assets that we have specifically identified as held for sale. There was one property classified as held for sale at September 30, 2012, and no properties were classified as held for sale at September 30, 2011.
Classification of Fixed Asset Additions
We define recurring fixed asset additions to a property as capital expenditures made to replace worn out assets to maintain the property's value. Revenue enhancing/non-recurring fixed asset additions are defined as capital expenditures that increase the value of the property and/or enable us to increase rents. Acquisition or development fixed asset additions are defined as capital expenditures for the purchase or construction of new properties to be added to our portfolio, or fixed asset additions identified at the time of purchase that are not made until subsequent periods.
Comprehensive Income
In June 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU No. 2011-05, Presentation of Comprehensive Income, which amends ASC 220, Comprehensive Income. This ASU requires the presentation of total comprehensive income, total net income and the components of net income and comprehensive income in either a single continuous statement or in two separate but consecutive statements. This updated guidance eliminates the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in equity. This updated guidance applies to fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, commencing after December 15, 2011. We adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2012.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2011 financial statements to conform to the 2012 presentation.
3.    ACQUISITION, DEVELOPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND DISPOSITION ACTIVITY
Acquisition Activity
On August 28, 2012, we acquired The Park at Crossroads, a 344-unit property located in Cary, North Carolina for a purchase price of $35.2 million. We paid $10.3 million in cash, which was primarily funded from our unsecured revolving credit facility and assumed a $24.9 million loan. We determined that the fair value of the loan assumed was $27.5 million and recorded the fair value amount as mortgage payable. The fair value of the total consideration paid was $37.8 million. See Note 4 for additional information related to this debt.
On July 23, 2012, we acquired 21 Forty Medical District, a 396-unit property located in Dallas, Texas, for a purchase price of $53.4 million. We paid cash for this acquisition, which was primarily funded from borrowings on our unsecured revolving credit facility.
On July 17, 2012, we acquired Southpoint Village Apartments, a 211-unit property located in Durham, North Carolina, for a purchase price of $34.8 million. We paid cash for this acquisition, which was primarily funded from borrowings on our unsecured revolving credit facility.
On May 23, 2012, we acquired The Apartments at the Arboretum, a 205-unit community located in Cary, North Carolina, for $39.3 million. We paid cash for this acquisition, which was primarily funded from borrowings on our unsecured revolving credit facility.
On May 8, 2012, we acquired Desmond's Tower and the adjacent parking lot in Los Angeles, California, for $37.3 million. We intend to use the parking lot area for the development of approximately 175 multifamily units. Desmond's Tower is an office and retail building consisting of approximately 78,800 square feet of space that is subject to a five-year renewable lease under which we will receive base rent of approximately $1.5 million per year in addition to reimbursement for all operating costs.

8


The following table presents the purchase allocation for the properties acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2012:
(In thousands)
 
 
Land
 
$
42,888

Buildings and improvements
 
150,186

Furniture and fixtures
 
3,190

Existing leases and tenant relationships (Other assets)(1)
 
6,313

Acquired debt(2)
 
(27,530
)
Total
 
$
175,047

(1)
See Note 5 for additional information related to intangible assets identified as existing leases and tenant relationships.
(2)
Recorded at fair value; actual loan assumed was $24.9 million.
The following table presents actual and pro forma information related to the properties acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2012. The pro forma information is presented as if the properties were acquired on January 1, 2011. We expensed acquisition costs during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, totaling $282,000 and $766,000 related to these properties, which are included in "Costs associated with acquisitions" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income. These acquisition costs have been transferred to the nine months ended September 30, 2011 in the calculation of pro forma net income applicable to common shares. The pro forma information is presented for informational purposes only, and is not necessarily indicative of what our actual results of operations would have been had the acquisitions occurred at such time.
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actual revenue from acquisitions
 
$
3,192

 
$

 
$
3,834

 
$

Actual net income from acquisitions
 
11

 

 
243

 

Pro forma revenue
 
46,792

 
47,671

 
138,061

 
136,510

Pro forma net income attributable to AERC
 
3,163

 
11,547

 
26,588

 
4,774

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pro forma earnings per common share - basic:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pro forma net income applicable to common shares
 
$
0.06

 
$
0.28

 
$
0.59

 
$
0.12

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pro forma earnings per common share - diluted:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pro forma net income applicable to common shares
 
$
0.06

 
$
0.28

 
$
0.59

 
$
0.12

Development Activity
On May 8, 2012, as previously discussed, we acquired Desmond's Tower and the adjacent parking lot in Los Angeles, California, for $37.3 million. The acquired property comprises 2.21 acres with the parking lot area being zoned for apartments on which we intend to develop approximately 175 multifamily units. Total costs incurred with the development of the multifamily units at September 30, 2012, were $18.2 million, including the parking lot land cost of $17.3 million.

9


During the three months ended March 31, 2012, a partnership in which we are a 97.0% partner, acquired a 2.5 acre parcel of land in Bethesda, Maryland for $12.2 million, which the partnership intends to use for development of approximately 140 multifamily units and 7,000 square feet of retail space. Total development costs incurred through September 30, 2012, were $15.3 million. See Note 6 for additional information related to this partnership.
During 2011, we acquired a 2.4 acre vacant parcel of land located in Dallas, Texas for $6.9 million, which we intend to use for the development of approximately 265 multifamily units. Total development costs incurred through September 30, 2012, were $8.0 million.
During 2011, we acquired a 1.5 acre vacant parcel of land adjacent to San Raphael Apartments located in Dallas, Texas for $710,000. We commenced the construction of 99 multifamily units on this parcel during the quarter ended June 30, 2012. Total development costs incurred through September 30, 2012, were $3.5 million.
During 2010, we began development of Vista Germantown, a 242-unit apartment community located in Nashville, Tennessee which was placed in service during the three months ended June 30, 2012. Total development costs incurred through September 30, 2012, were $36.0 million. See Note 6 for additional information related to this development project.
Construction Activity
Our subsidiary, Merit, is engaged as a general contractor and construction manager that acts as our in-house construction division and also has provided general contracting and construction management services to third parties. As of December 31, 2011, Merit was no longer engaged in the third party construction business.
Disposition Activity
The results of operations for all periods presented and gains related to the sale of operating properties are reported in "Income from discontinued operations" in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income. Real estate assets that are classified as held for sale are also reported as discontinued operations. We classify properties as held for sale when all significant contingencies surrounding the completion of the disposition have been resolved. In most transactions, these contingencies are not satisfied until the actual closing of the transaction. Interest expense included in discontinued operations is limited to interest on mortgage debt specifically associated with properties sold or classified as held for sale.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we completed the sale of five properties for a total sales price of $60.0 million. Four of the properties were located in Michigan and one in Georgia. We classified one property located in Ohio as held for sale as of September 30, 2012 as all significant contingencies surrounding the completion of the disposition have been resolved. We tested this property for impairment and determined it was not impaired. The major classes of assets and liabilities related to this property have been reclassified as held for sale in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 2012.

10


"Income from discontinued operations" in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, includes the operating results recognized for the five properties sold in 2012, the two properties sold in 2011 and the one property classified as held for sale at September 30, 2012. The related gains recognized are for the five properties sold in 2012 and the two properties sold in 2011. The following table summarizes "Income from discontinued operations:"
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
(In thousands)
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
REVENUE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property revenue
$
312

 
$
3,736

 
$
5,131

 
$
11,317

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EXPENSES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property operating and maintenance
149

 
1,898

 
2,706

 
5,690

Depreciation and amortization
66

 
982

 
1,238

 
2,927

Total expenses
215

 
2,880

 
3,944

 
8,617

Operating income
97

 
856

 
1,187

 
2,700

Interest expense

 
(324
)
 
(246
)
 
(1,091
)
Operating income, net of interest expense
97

 
532

 
941

 
1,609

Gain on disposition of properties

 
14,597

 
22,819

 
14,597

Income from discontinued operations
$
97

 
$
15,129

 
$
23,760

 
$
16,206


4.    DEBT
The following table identifies our total debt outstanding and weighted average interest rates:
 
September 30, 2012
 
December 31, 2011
 
 
 
Weighted
 
 
 
Weighted
 
Balance
 
Average Interest
 
Balance
 
Average Interest
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
Outstanding
 
Rate
 
Outstanding
 
Rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed Rate Debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Secured
$
377,254

 
5.4
%
 
$
433,743

 
5.8
%
Total Fixed Rate Debt
377,254

 
5.4
%
 
433,743

 
5.8
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Variable Rate Debt Hedged:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Secured (1)
33,283

 
4.7
%
 
33,728

 
4.7
%
Unsecured (2)
125,000

 
2.0
%
 
125,000

 
2.3
%
Total Variable Rate Debt Hedged
158,283

 
2.6
%
 
158,728

 
2.8
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Variable Rate Debt Unhedged:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Secured
21,663

 
3.5
%
 
14,317

 
3.6
%
Unsecured
167,000

 
1.9
%
 
58,000

 
2.9
%
Total Variable Rate Debt Unhedged
188,663

 
2.1
%
 
72,317

 
3.1
%
Total Debt
$
724,200

 
3.9
%
 
$
664,788

 
4.8
%
(1)
The interest rate on these mortgage notes are capped at 6.9% until maturity.
(2)
The Company entered into a forward starting swap in December 2011 related to this debt, fixing the rate beginning in June 2013 for the duration of its maturity at a rate of 1.26% plus the credit spread, which was 1.80% as of September 30, 2012, or an all-in rate of 3.06%.

11


Mortgage Notes Payable
The following table provides information on mortgage loans repaid during the nine months ended September 30, 2012:
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
 
Loans Repaid
 
Property
 
Amount
 
 Interest Rate
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Arbor Landings
 
$
16,074

 
7.9%
 
Bradford at Easton
 
12,109

 
7.9%
 
Center Point
 
16,500

 
5.8%
 
Residence at Barrington
 
19,500

 
5.8%
 
River Forest
 
18,325

 
5.7%
 
The Belvedere
 
25,280

 
5.6%
 
The Falls
 
15,660

 
7.9%
 
Total / weighted average rate
 
$
123,448

 
6.5%
(1) 

(1)
Represents weighted average interest rate for the loans listed as of the date paid.
In August 2012, we assumed a $24.9 million mortgage loan on The Park at Crossroads acquisition with an interest rate of 6.3% and a maturity date of August 1, 2016. We determined that the fair value of the loan assumed was $27.5 million and recorded the fair value amount as mortgages payable. Total assumption fees associated with this loan were $250,000. Additionally, we had drawn $7.3 million on the construction loan on Vista Germantown for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.
In June 2012, we obtained a $41.2 million mortgage loan on Dwell Vienna Metro with an interest rate of 3.7% and a maturity date of June 1, 2022. Total debt procurement costs associated with this loan were $380,000.
During 2008, 2007 and 2006, we defeased 21 CMBS loans. These loans were defeased pursuant to the terms of the underlying loan documents. In accordance with GAAP, we removed those financial assets and the mortgage loans from our financial records. All risk of loss associated with these defeasances was transferred from us to the successor borrower and any ongoing relationship between the successor borrower and us was deemed inconsequential at the time of completion of the respective transfers. However, we subsequently learned that for certain defeasance transactions, the successor borrower was able to prepay certain loans thus enabling us to receive a refund of a portion of the costs incurred in connection with the transaction. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we received a refund of $279,000, which represents the last refund that we could receive as all defeased loans have now matured and have been repaid in full.
Cash paid for interest, excluding $1.0 million and $468,000 of capitalized interest, was $21.8 million and $22.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Cash paid for interest was reduced by the defeasance refund received of $279,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. Additionally, $1.7 million of prepayment costs is included in the cash paid for interest for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

12


5.    GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill
We have a policy of completing our annual review of goodwill during the first quarter of each year and more frequently, if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The review that was completed during the three months ended March 31, 2012, determined that goodwill was not impaired. No other events have occurred which would require goodwill to be reevaluated, and as such, there were no changes to the carrying value of goodwill as of September 30, 2012. In performing this analysis, we use a multiple of revenues to the range of potential alternatives. We then assign a probability to the various alternatives under our consideration. Should the estimates used to determine alternatives or the probabilities of the occurrence thereof change, impairment may result which could materially impact our results of operations for the period in which it is recorded.
Intangible Assets
We allocate a portion of the total purchase price of a property acquisition to any intangible assets identified, such as in place leases and tenant relationships. The intangible assets are amortized over the remaining lease terms or estimated life of the tenant relationship, which is approximately 12 months for residential leases. Due to the short term nature of residential leases, we believe that existing lease rates approximate market rates; therefore, no allocation is made for above/below market leases. As of September 30, 2012, we have intangible assets associated with one five-year commercial lease that are being amortized over the life of the lease.
In connection with our property acquisitions completed during the nine months ended September 30, 2012, as discussed in Note 3, we recorded intangible assets related to existing residential and commercial leases and tenant relationships as follows:
The Park at Crossroads acquired on August 28, 2012: $540,000 amortizable over 12 months.
21 Forty Medical District acquired on July 23, 2012: $2.0 million amortizable over 12 months.
Southpoint Village Apartments acquired on July 17, 2012: $1.2 million amortizable over 12 months.
The Apartments at the Arboretum acquired on May 23, 2012: $761,000 amortizable over 12 months.
Desmond's Tower acquired on May 8, 2012: $1.9 million amortizable over 60 months.


13



6.    NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
Noncontrolling Redeemable Interest
In 1998, we issued a total of 522,032 operating partnership units ("OP units") in conjunction with the acquisition of an operating partnership that owned two apartment communities, one of which was sold in October 2005. Holders of OP units are entitled to receive cumulative distributions per OP unit equal to the per share distributions on our common shares. If and when the OP units are presented for redemption, we have the option to redeem, in certain circumstances, the OP units for common shares exchangeable on a one-for-one basis, or the cash equivalent amount, determined as the average closing price for our commons shares over the 20-day period preceding the redemption. All units presented to date for redemption had been redeemed for cash. No OP Units were redeemed during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 or 2011. There were 74,083 OP units remaining as of September 30, 2012.
Activity related to noncontrolling redeemable interest is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
(In thousands)
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
1,734

 
$
1,734

 
$
1,734

 
$
1,734

Net income attributable to noncontrolling redeemable interest
 
13

 
12

 
40

 
37

Distribution to noncontrolling redeemable interest
 
(13
)
 
(12
)
 
(40
)
 
(37
)
Balance at end of period
 
$
1,734

 
$
1,734

 
$
1,734

 
$
1,734

Noncontrolling Interests
On July 14, 2011, we entered into a partnership agreement with Keating Project Development, Inc., an unrelated third-party, pursuant to which we hold a 97.0% equity interest in the partnership. In March 2012, the partnership acquired a 2.5 acre parcel of land in Bethesda, Maryland, for $12.2 million that it intends to use for the development of approximately 140 multifamily units and 7,000 square feet of retail space. We have determined that this entity, in which we hold a controlling financial interest, is not a variable interest entity. As such, this entity is included in our consolidated financial statements. We have also determined that the noncontrolling interest in this entity meets the criteria to be classified as a component of permanent equity.
On September 24, 2010, we entered into a partnership agreement with Bristol Development Group, an unrelated third-party, for the development of Vista Germantown, a 242-unit apartment community located in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. We contributed $9.4 million to the partnership and hold a 90.0% equity interest. We have determined that this entity, in which we hold a controlling financial interest, is not a variable interest entity. This entity is included in our consolidated financial statements. We have also determined that the noncontrolling interest in this entity meets the criteria to be classified as a component of permanent equity.
The following table provides details of the activity related to the noncontrolling interests for the nine months ended September 30, 2012:
(In thousands)
 
 
Balance at beginning of period
 
$
1,029

Net (loss) income
 
(41
)
Noncontrolling interest cash contribution
 
350

Balance at end of period
 
$
1,338


14


7.    EQUITY
The following table provides a reconciliation of significant activity in equity accounts:
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accumulated
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common
 
 
 
Distributions
 
Accumulated
 
 
 
 
Shares
 
 
 
in Excess of
 
Other
 
Treasury
 
 
(at $.10
 
Paid-In
 
Accumulated
 
Comprehensive
 
Shares
(In thousands)
 
stated value)
 
Capital
 
Net Income
 
Income
 
(at Cost)
Balance, December 31, 2011
 
$
4,657

 
$
583,172

 
$
(228,545
)
 
$
(405
)
 
$
(50,086
)
Net income attributable to AERC
 

 

 
23,681

 

 

Other comprehensive income
 

 

 

 
(2,529
)
 

Share-based compensation
 

 
1,647

 
1

 

 
1,909

Purchase of common shares
 

 

 

 

 
(958
)
Option exercises from treasury shares
 

 
13

 

 

 
39

Issuance of common shares
 
292

 
48,709

 

 

 
49,090

Common share dividends declared
 

 

 
(25,744
)
 

 

Balance, September 30, 2012
 
$
4,949

 
$
633,541

 
$
(230,607
)
 
$
(2,934
)
 
$
(6
)
8.    COMMON SHARES
In August 2012, we registered an at-the-market ("ATM") program allowing us to sell up to $75.0 million of our common shares in open market transactions at-the-then market price per share. We intend to use the proceeds for general corporate purposes. There were no shares sold during the three months ended September 30, 2012, under this program.
On June 27, 2012, we sold 6,325,000 of our common shares in a public offering at a price of $14.40 per share, which resulted in total net proceeds of approximately $87.2 million. Of the 6,325,000 shares sold in this offering, we issued all of the 3,043,333 common shares then remaining in treasury and 2,921,667 authorized and previously unissued common shares. The proceeds were used to fund property acquisitions and development and for general corporate purposes.
In August 2010, we registered an ATM program allowing us to sell up to $25.0 million of our common shares in open market transactions at-the-then market price per share. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we sold 681,178 shares under this ATM program for total net proceeds of $11.1 million. The proceeds were used to reduce borrowings on our unsecured revolver and for general corporate purposes. The shares sold under the ATM program were issued from treasury. As of September 30, 2012, all $25.0 million of common shares have been sold and the program has been completed.


15


9.    EARNINGS PER SHARE
The following table presents a reconciliation of basic and diluted earnings per common share:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
Numerator - basic and diluted:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations
$
2,004

 
$
(2,921
)
 
$
(80
)
 
$
(8,628
)
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
(8
)
 
(12
)
 
1

 
(37
)
Income (loss) from continuing operations applicable to common shares
$
1,996

 
$
(2,933
)
 
$
(79
)
 
$
(8,665
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from discontinued operations applicable to common shares
$
97

 
$
15,129

 
$
23,760

 
$
16,206

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Denominator - basic:
49,461

 
41,697

 
44,924

 
41,458

Effect of dilutive securities (1)
466

 

 

 

Denominator - diluted:
49,927

 
41,697

 
44,924

 
41,458

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per common share - basic:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations
$
0.04

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$

 
$
(0.21
)
Income from discontinued operations

 
0.36

 
0.53

 
0.39

Net income attributable to AERC - basic
$
0.04

 
$
0.29

 
$
0.53

 
$
0.18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per common share - diluted:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations
$
0.04

 
$
(0.07
)
 
$

 
$
(0.21
)
Income from discontinued operations

 
0.36

 
0.53

 
0.39

Net income attributable to AERC - diluted
$
0.04

 
$
0.29

 
$
0.53

 
$
0.18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
For the three months ended September 30, 2012, the effect of 145,000 stock options were excluded as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive. For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, and the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, all potential common shares are excluded as they are anti-dilutive to the net loss from continuing operations.
The effect of exercise of rights for exchange of OP units into common shares was not included in the computation of diluted EPS because we intend to settle the exchange of these interests in cash.
10.    EQUITY BASED AWARD PLANS
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, we recognized total share-based compensation cost of $936,000 and $2.9 million, respectively, in "General and administrative expense" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, we recognized total share-based compensation cost of $802,000 and $2.5 million, respectively, in "General and administrative expense" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income.


16


Restricted Shares. Restricted shares generally have the same rights as our common shares, except for transfer restrictions and forfeiture provisions. Our officers and directors may elect to defer the receipt of restricted shares under our deferred compensation plans. Deferred restricted share awards are reflected as restricted share equivalent units ("RSUs") in an individual bookkeeping account maintained for each participant. The vesting of such RSUs occurs on the same schedule as the restricted shares subject to the deferral election, and the valuation and attribution of cost in our consolidated financial statements are also the same as the restricted shares subject to the deferral election. RSUs are not included in the number of issued and outstanding common shares reflected in the "Equity" section of our Consolidated Balance Sheets. RSUs with non-forfeitable dividend rights are taken into account in the allocation to participating securities using the two class method. RSUs with forfeitable dividend rights do not qualify as participating securities and are included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share to the extent they are not anti-dilutive for the period presented.
The following table represents restricted share and RSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2012:
 
 
 
 
Weighted
 
 
 
Weighted
 
 
 
 
Average
 
 
 
Average
 
 
Number of
 
Grant Date
 
Number of
 
Grant Date
 
 
Shares
 
Fair Value
 
RSUs
 
Fair Value
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nonvested at beginning of period
 
554,050

 
$
7.87

 
63,349

 
$
9.64

Granted
 
158,261

 
$
16.52

 
37,681

 
$
16.80

Vested
 
182,672

 
$
11.07

 
42,205

 
$
6.85

Forfeited
 
4,233

 
$
16.05

 

 
$

Nonvested at end of period
 
525,406

 
$
9.72

 
58,825

 
$
14.13

There were 57,528 vested RSUs distributed from our Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan during the nine months ended September 30, 2012, in the form of common shares issued from treasury. The weighted-average grant date fair value of restricted shares and RSUs granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, was $16.52 and $15.19, respectively. The total fair value of restricted shares vested during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, was $3.6 million and $2.7 million, respectively. The total fair value of RSUs vested during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, was $715,000 and $759,000, respectively. At September 30, 2012, there was a total of $2.9 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested restricted share awards and RSUs that we expect to recognize over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years.
Stock Options. There were 125,000 stock options awarded to an executive officer, 10,000 options expired and 5,000 stock options were exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2012. There were no stock options awarded and 77,456 stock options were exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2011. We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock option awards. The Black-Scholes assumptions and fair value for the options awarded in 2012 were as follows:
Expected volatility
 
33.9
%
 
Risk-free interest rate
 
1.3
%
 
Expected life of options (in years)
 
7.0

 
Dividend yield
 
4.7
%
 
Grant-date fair value
 
$
2.97

 


17


The expected volatility was based upon a 50/50 blend of historical and implied volatility. The historical volatility was based upon changes in the weekly closing prices of our shares over a period equal to the expected life of the options granted. The implied volatility was the trailing month average of daily implied volatilities calculated by interpolating between the volatilities implied by stock call option contracts that were both closest to the expected life and the exercise price of the options. The longest terms of such options over the trailing month averaged 7.1 months. The risk-free interest rate was determined by interpolating between the yields from U.S. Treasury zero-coupon bonds on the date of grant with maturities closest to the expected life of the options. The expected life was derived using our historical experience for similar awards. The dividend yield was derived using our annual dividend rate as a percentage of the price of our shares on the date of grant.
The following table represents stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2012:
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-Average
 
Number of
 
Weighted-Average
 
Remaining
 
Stock Options
 
Exercise Price
 
Contract Life
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding at beginning of period
689,184

 
$
9.93

 
 
Granted
125,000

 
$
15.29

 
 
Exercised
5,000

 
$
10.29

 
 
Expired
10,000

 
$
12.19

 
 
Outstanding at end of period
799,184

 
$
10.74

 
4.1 years
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable at end of period
637,184

 
$
9.84

 
2.9 years
11.    DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
We utilize interest rate swaps and caps, from time to time, to add stability to interest rate expense and to manage our exposure to interest rate movements. See Note 2 for additional information related to our derivative instruments and hedging policy.
On December 19, 2011, we entered into a forward starting interest rate swap effective June 7, 2013. This swap hedges the future cash flows of interest payments on our $125.0 million unsecured term loan by fixing the rate until maturity at a rate of 1.26% plus the credit spread (which was 1.80% at September 30, 2012), or an all-in rate of 3.06%. The credit spread is subject to change, from time to time, from a minimum of 1.80% (at less than 45% leverage) to a maximum of 2.55% (at greater than 55% leverage) over LIBOR based upon leverage ratios as defined in the agreement governing the term loan. See Note 14 for additional information.
The following table presents the fair value of our derivative financial instrument as well as the classification on the Consolidated Balance Sheets (see Note 12 for additional information regarding the fair value of this derivative instrument):


18


Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
 
 
 
 
 
Liability Derivatives
 
As of September 30, 2012
 
As of December 31, 2011
(in thousands)
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
Derivatives designated
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
Accounts payable, accrued
 
 
 
Accounts payable, accrued
 
 
 
expenses and other liabilities
 
$
(2,934
)
 
expenses and other liabilities
 
$
(405
)
The following table presents the effect of our derivative financial instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income:
The Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Location of
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain or (Loss)
 
Amount of Gain or
 
Location of Gain
 
Amount of Gain or (Loss)
 
 
 
 
Reclassified
 
Loss Reclassified
 
(Loss) Recognized
 
Recognized in Income on
 
 
Amount of Gain or
 
from
 
from Accumulated
 
in Income
 
Derivative (Ineffective
(In thousands)
 
(Loss) Recognized in
 
Accumulated
 
OCI into Income
 
on Derivative
 
Portion and Amount
Derivatives in
 
OCI on Derivative
 
OCI into
 
(Effective Portion)
 
(Ineffective Portion
 
Excluded from
Cash Flow
 
(Effective Portion)
 
Income
 
Three Months
 
and Amount
 
Effectiveness Testing)
Hedging
 
Three Months Ended
 
(Effective
 
Ended
 
Excluded from
 
Three Months Ended
Relationships
 
September 30, 2012
 
Portion)
 
September 30, 2012
 
Effective Testing)
 
September 30, 2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
$
(896
)
 
Interest expense
 
$
 
 
Interest expense
 
$
 
The Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Location of
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain or (Loss)
 
Amount of Gain or
 
Location of Gain
 
Amount of Gain or (Loss)
 
 
 
 
Reclassified
 
Loss Reclassified
 
(Loss) Recognized
 
Recognized in Income on
 
 
Amount of Gain or
 
from
 
from Accumulated
 
in Income
 
Derivative (Ineffective
(In thousands)
 
(Loss) Recognized in
 
Accumulated
 
OCI into Income
 
on Derivative
 
Portion and Amount
Derivatives in
 
OCI on Derivative
 
OCI into
 
(Effective Portion)
 
(Ineffective Portion
 
Excluded from
Cash Flow
 
(Effective Portion)
 
Income
 
Nine Months
 
and Amount
 
Effectiveness Testing)
Hedging
 
Nine Months Ended
 
(Effective
 
Ended
 
Excluded from
 
Nine Months Ended
Relationships
 
September 30, 2012
 
Portion)
 
September 30, 2012
 
Effective Testing)
 
September 30, 2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
 
$
(2,529
)
 
Interest expense
 
$
 
 
Interest expense
 
$
 
As of September 30, 2012, the fair value of the derivative in a net liability position, excluding any adjustment for nonperformance risk, was $2.9 million. As of September 30, 2012, we have not posted any collateral related to this agreement.  If we had breached any of the provisions in the agreement with our derivative counterparty at September 30, 2012, we could have been required to settle our obligations under the agreement at its termination value of $2.9 million.

19


12.    FAIR VALUE
Fair value, as defined by GAAP, represents the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. The inputs used in the determination of fair value amounts and disclosures are based on the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing certain assets or liabilities. These inputs are classified in the fair value hierarchy as follows:
Ÿ
Level 1 inputs utilize quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access;
 
 
Ÿ
Level 2 inputs may include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, as well as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals; and
 
 
Ÿ
Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability that are typically based on an entity's own assumptions as there is little, if any, related market activity.
The inputs used in the fair value measurement should be from the highest level available. In instances where the measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the fair value measurement will fall within the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.
Cash, accounts and notes receivable, other assets, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities (except for the interest rate swap discussed below) are carried at amounts that reasonably approximate corresponding fair values because of their short term nature.
The interest rate swap derivative, as discussed in detail in Note 11 under "Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities," is carried at fair value. The fair value of the derivative was determined by using a model that applies discount rates to the expected future cash flows associated with the swap. The significant inputs used in the valuation model to estimate the discount rates and expected cash flows are observable in active markets and, therefore, are Level 2 inputs.
We estimate the fair value of our mortgage notes payable by discounting the associated cash flows using the interest rates available to us as of the dates reported for issuance of debt with similar terms, remaining maturities and collateral value. We classify the fair value of our mortgage notes payable as Level 3.
We estimate the fair value of our unsecured debt by discounting the associated cash flows using the interest rates available to us as of the dates reported for issuance of debt with similar terms and remaining maturities. We classify the fair value of our unsecured debt as Level 2.
 
 
 
 
Fair Value at September 30, 2012 Using
 
 
 
 
Quoted Prices in
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Active Markets
 
Significant
 
 
 
 
 
 
for Identical
 
Other
 
Significant
 
 
 
 
Assets or
 
Observable
 
Unobservable
 
 
Carrying
 
Liabilities
 
Inputs
 
Inputs
(In thousands)
 
Value
 
(Level 1)
 
(Level 2)
 
(Level 3)
Mortgage notes payable
 
$
432,200

 
$

 
$

 
$
511,890

Unsecured debt
 
292,000

 

 
292,521

 

 
 
 
 
Fair Value at December 31, 2011 Using
 
 
 
 
Quoted Prices in
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Active Markets
 
Significant
 
 
 
 
 
 
for Identical
 
Other
 
Significant
 
 
 
 
Assets or
 
Observable
 
Unobservable
 
 
Carrying
 
Liabilities
 
Inputs
 
Inputs
(In thousands)
 
Value
 
(Level 1)
 
(Level 2)
 
(Level 3)
Mortgage notes payable
 
$
481,788

 
$

 
$

 
$
548,168

Unsecured debt
 
183,000

 

 
185,879

 


20



13.    CONTINGENCIES
Legal Proceedings
We are subject to legal proceedings, lawsuits and other claims arising in the ordinary course of business(collectively "Litigation"). Litigation is subject to uncertainties and outcomes are difficult to predict. We believe any current Litigation will not have a material adverse impact on us after final disposition. However, because of the uncertainties of Litigation, one or more lawsuits could ultimately result in a material obligation.
14.    SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Debt
On October 19, 2012, we completed modifications to our unsecured term loan which included increasing the outstanding principal amount to $150.0 million from $125.0 million and extending the maturity date from June 2016 to January 2018. Additionally, the leverage credit spread used to determine the variable interest rate payable for the loan was reduced by 20 basis points across the leverage pricing grid and an investment grade pricing grid was added. Total costs associated with this modification were $600,000.
Dividends
On November 1, 2012, we paid a dividend of $0.18 per common share to shareholders of record on October 15, 2012, which was declared on September 24, 2012.


21


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Part I, Item 1 of this report on Form 10-Q. This discussion may contain forward-looking statements based on current judgments and current knowledge of management, which are subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to vary from those projected, including but not limited to, expectations regarding our 2012 performance that are based on certain assumptions. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements that speak only as of the date of this report. These forward-looking statements are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "expects," "projects," "believes," "plans," "anticipates" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainty that could cause actual results to differ from estimates or projections contained in these forward-looking statements, including without limitation the following:
changes in the economic climate in the markets in which we own and manage properties, including interest rates, the overall level of economic activity, the availability of consumer credit and mortgage financing, unemployment rates and other factors;
elimination of, or limitations on, federal government support for Fannie Mae and/or Freddie Mac that might result in significantly reduced availability of mortgage financing sources, as well as increases in interest rates for mortgage financing;
construction and construction business risks, including, without limitation, rapid and unanticipated increases in prices of building materials and commodities;
our ability to refinance debt on favorable terms at maturity;
risks of a lessening of demand for the multifamily units that we own;
competition from other available multifamily units and changes in market rental rates;
the failure of development projects to perform in accordance with our expectations;
increases in property and liability insurance costs;
unanticipated increases in real estate taxes and other operating expenses;
weather conditions that adversely affect operating expenses;
expenditures that cannot be anticipated such as utility rate and usage increases and unanticipated repairs;
our inability to control operating expenses or achieve increases in revenue;
shareholder ownership limitations that may discourage a takeover otherwise considered favorable by shareholders;
the results of litigation filed or to be filed against us;
changes in tax legislation;
risks of personal injury claims and property damage related to mold claims that are not covered by our insurance;
catastrophic property damage losses that are not covered by our insurance;
our ability to acquire properties at prices consistent with our investment criteria;
risks associated with property acquisitions such as failure to achieve expected results or matters not discovered in due diligence; and
risks related to the perception of residents and prospective residents as to the attractiveness, convenience and safety of our properties or the neighborhoods in which they are located.


22


Overview.
We are engaged primarily in the ownership and operation of multifamily apartment units. Our subsidiary, Merit, is a general contractor and construction manager that acts as our in-house construction division. Our primary source of cash and revenue from operations is rental payments from the leasing of apartment units, which represents substantially all of our consolidated revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.
The operating performance of our properties is affected by general economic trends including, but not limited to, factors such as household formation, job growth, unemployment rates, population growth, immigration, the supply of new multifamily rental communities and, in certain markets, the supply of other housing alternatives, such as condominiums, single and multifamily rental homes and owner occupied single and multifamily homes. Additionally, our performance may be affected by access to, and cost of, debt and equity.
Rental revenue collections are impacted by net rental rates and occupancy levels. We have recently implemented LROTM, a rental revenue software product that optimizes rents by leveraging the statistical data provided by LROTM. We combine this data with our proprietary market knowledge and experience in our efforts to maximize rental revenues and maintain high occupancy levels. LROTM is expected to generate long term rent growth and asset stability with daily, incremental rent changes. We continuously monitor physical occupancy and net collected rent per unit to track our success in maximizing rental revenue. These indicators are more fully described in the Results of Operations comparison. Additionally, we consider property net operating income ("NOI"), Funds from Operations ("FFO") and FFO as adjusted to be important indicators of our overall performance. Property NOI (property operating revenue less property operating and maintenance expenses) is a measure of the profitability of our properties and has the largest impact on our financial condition and operating results. FFO is used in the real estate industry as a supplemental measure of the operating performance of real estate companies because it excludes charges such as real estate depreciation and amortization on intangible assets that are generally considered not to be reflective of the actual value of real estate assets over time. Additionally, gains and losses from the sale of most real estate assets and certain other items are also excluded from FFO. We calculate FFO as adjusted as FFO, defined above, excluding $1.7 million of prepayment penalties associated with debt repayments and $279,000 of refunds for a previously defeased loan. In accordance with GAAP, these prepayment penalties and refunds on the previously defeased loan are included in interest expense in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income. We are providing this calculation as an alternative FFO calculation as we consider it a more appropriate measure of comparing the operating performance of a company's real estate between periods or as compared to different REITs. A reconciliation of property NOI to consolidated net income attributable to AERC and a reconciliation of net income attributable to AERC to FFO and FFO as adjusted are included in the Results of Operations comparison.
Updated 2012 Expectations.
Portfolio performance - Our full-year 2012 guidance reflects Same Community NOI increasing in the range of 6.7% to 6.9% as compared to 2011.
Property acquisitions, sales and development - During 2012, we anticipate acquisitions of $183 million and dispositions of $67 million. We also anticipate that development expenditures will be between $50 million and $55 million during 2012. Through September 30, 2012, we have completed $182.6 million of acquisitions, disposed of $60.0 million of properties and spent $45.2 million on development, including land acquisitions.
Debt repayment - We have repaid seven mortgage loans totaling $123.4 million as of September 30, 2012, and have no remaining mortgage loan maturities in 2012.
Forecast Qualification. The foregoing updated expectations are forward looking statements expressly subject to the discussion in the first paragraph of this Item 2. Uncertainties relating to the broader domestic economic and financial conditions impact our ability to forecast future performance. We believe that the apartment industry is better situated to weather a delayed recovery than other real estate sectors. Nevertheless, unless and until meaningful job and wage growth occurs in our markets, continued rent increases may be limited.

23


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Cash Flows and Liquidity. Significant sources and uses of cash during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011 are summarized as follows:
 
Nine Months Ended
 
September 30,
(In thousands)
2012
 
2011
Net cash provided by operations
$
51,617

 
$
43,265

Fixed assets:
 
 
 
Acquisition expenditures
(158,925
)
 
(116,018
)
Development expenditures
(44,485
)
 
(15,034
)
Net property disposition proceeds
57,523

 
28,967

Recurring, revenue enhancing and non-recurring capital expenditures
(8,005
)
 
(8,477
)
Debt:

 

(Decrease) increase in mortgage notes
(77,058
)
 
2,701

Increase (decrease) in revolving credit facility borrowings
109,000

 
(50,500
)
Increase in term loan borrowings

 
125,000

Common share issuance proceeds
98,355

 
13,330

Cash dividends and operating partnership distributions paid
(23,589
)
 
(20,993
)
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows provided by operations, short-term borrowings on the unsecured revolver, project specific loans and the sale of debt or equity securities. Our scheduled debt maturities for 2012 consisted of five mortgage loans totaling approximately $79.8 million. We have repaid all of these loans with proceeds from borrowings on our unsecured revolver. Additionally, we prepaid two FHA loans totaling $43.6 million and incurred a prepayment penalty of $1.7 million. In January 2012, we increased our $250.0 million unsecured revolving credit facility, or revolver, to $350.0 million and, among other modifications, reduced the credit spread used to determine the interest rate applied to our borrowings and extended the maturity to January 2016. This facility provides financial flexibility and the opportunity to capitalize on strategic acquisitions without the delays associated with financing contingencies. On October 26, 2012, we had $192.0 million of availability under this facility. On October 19, 2012, we completed modifications to our unsecured term loan which increased the outstanding principal amount to $150.0 million from $125.0 million. The additional proceeds were used to repay a project specific construction loan.
During the second quarter of 2012, we sold 681,178 shares under our $25.0 million at-the-market ("ATM") program for total gross proceeds of $11.3 million, or $11.1 million net of sales and commissions and other costs. The proceeds were used to reduce borrowings on our unsecured revolver and for general corporate purposes. At June 30, 2012, all $25.0 million of common shares available for issuance under the ATM have been sold and the program has been completed. In August 2012, we registered an ATM program allowing us to sell up to $75.0 million of our common shares in open market transactions at-the-then market price per share. There were no shares sold during the three months ended September 30, 2012, under this program. Our ability to access the capital market affords us additional liquidity as demonstrated by our sale of 6,325,000 of our common shares, during 2012, in an underwritten public offering. The net proceeds from this offering, which totaled approximately $87.2 million, were used to fund property acquisitions and development and for general corporate purposes. As of October 26, 2012, equity and/or debt securities of up to $258.8 million issue price remain available for public offerings under our current shelf registration statement.
We anticipate that cash flow provided by operations for the remainder of the year will be sufficient to meet normal business operations and liquidity requirements. We believe that if net cash provided by operations is below projections, other sources such as the unsecured revolver, secured and unsecured borrowings are, or can be made available, and should be sufficient to meet our normal business operations and liquidity requirements. We anticipate that we will continue to pay our regular quarterly dividends in cash. Funds to be used for property acquisitions, development or other capital expenditures are expected to be provided by proceeds from our unsecured revolver, property sales, unsecured bond issuances, property specific secured financings and possibly the sale of common shares in a follow on offering, private placement or under our ATM.

24


Cash flow provided by operations increased 19.3% during the nine months ended September 30, 2012, compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2011, as a result of a 6.7% increase in Same Community Property NOI and the contribution from the four properties acquired during the nine months of 2012 and three properties acquired during the year ended 2011. See the discussion under Results of Operations for further information concerning the property NOI contribution from the Same Community Properties and Acquired Properties.
During the remainder of 2012, we anticipate incurring an additional $3.0 million in capital expenditures for replacements and improvements at our operating properties. This includes replacement of worn carpet and appliances, improvements to parking lots and similar items in accordance with our current property expenditure plan, as well as commitments for revenue enhancing and non-recurring expenditures. These capital expenditures are expected to be funded with cash provided by operating activities.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Comparison of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 to the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011:
Our Same Community portfolio represents operating properties that we have owned for all of the comparison periods. For the three month comparison periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Same Community portfolio consisted of 45 owned properties containing 12,078 units. For the nine month comparison periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Same Community portfolio consisted of 44 owned properties containing 11,856 units. Acquired Properties for the three month comparison period ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, include four properties acquired in 2012 and two properties that we acquired during the year ended 2011. Acquired properties for the nine month comparison periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, include four properties acquired in 2012 and three properties that we acquired during the year ended 2011. Beginning in the first quarter of 2012, our consolidated results of operations also includes one development property consisting of 242 units located in Nashville, Tennessee.
Net income from continuing operations for the Company for the three months ended September 30, 2012, increased $4.9 million to $2.0 million when compared to the $2.9 million loss from continuing operations recognized for the three months ended September 30, 2011. Net loss from continuing operations recognized for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, decreased $8.5 million. Our positive performance was primarily due to increases in property revenues, net of increases in property operating and maintenance expenses, depreciation and amortization expense, and general and administrative expense. Additionally, interest expense increased for the nine month comparison period primarily due to the net of the following: $1.7 million in prepayment costs in 2012, a defeasance refund of $279,000, interest incurred on the $125.0 million term loan that closed in June 2011, and a reduction of mortgage loan interest expense resulting from the payoff of seven mortgages during the quarter ended March 31, 2012.
The following table reflects the amount and percentage change in line items that are relevant to the changes in overall operating performance, which includes income from discontinued operations as well as income (loss) from continuing operations:
 
 
Increase (decrease) when
 
Increase when
 
 
comparing the three months
 
comparing the nine months
 
 
ended September 30, 2012
 
ended September 30, 2012
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
 
 to September 30, 2011
 
 to September 30, 2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property revenue
 
$
7,261

 
19.0
 %
 
$
18,144

 
16.6
%
Property operating and maintenance expense
 
2,937

 
19.2
 %
 
6,928

 
15.8
%
Depreciation and amortization
 
1,159

 
8.9
 %
 
2,325

 
6.2
%
General and administrative expense
 
335

 
9.3
 %
 
839

 
7.2
%
Interest expense
 
(905
)
 
(11.5
)%
 
365

 
1.6
%
Income from discontinued operations
 
(15,032
)
 
(99.4
)%
 
7,554

 
46.6
%


25


We use property NOI as a measure of the results of our properties' activities. We believe that the changes in property NOI can help to explain how the properties' activities influenced our results of operations. Property NOI is determined by deducting property operating and maintenance expenses from property revenue (excluding revenue and expense amounts classified as discontinued operations). We consider property NOI to be an appropriate supplemental measure of our performance because it reflects the operating performance of our real estate portfolio and is used to assess regional property level performance. Property NOI should not be considered (i) as an alternative to net income (determined in accordance with GAAP), (ii) as an indicator of financial performance, (iii) as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities (determined in accordance with GAAP), or (iv) as a measure of liquidity; nor is it necessarily indicative of sufficient cash flow to fund all of our needs. Other real estate companies may define property NOI in a different manner.
A reconciliation of property NOI to total consolidated net income attributable to AERC is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
(In thousands)
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property NOI
 
$
27,221

 
$
22,897

 
$
76,330

 
$
65,114

Office NOI
 
350

 

 
663

 

Construction and other services net loss
 
(28
)
 
(1,080
)
 
(181
)
 
(1,385
)
Depreciation and amortization
 
(14,150
)
 
(12,991
)
 
(39,674
)
 
(37,349
)
General and administrative expense
 
(3,936
)
 
(3,601
)
 
(12,569
)
 
(11,730
)
Development costs
 
(193
)
 
(81
)
 
(800
)
 
(257
)
Costs associated with acquisitions
 
(282
)
 
(182
)
 
(766
)
 
(303
)
Interest expense
 
(6,978
)
 
(7,883
)
 
(23,083
)
 
(22,718
)
Income (loss) from continuing operations
 
2,004

 
(2,921
)
 
(80
)
 
(8,628
)
Income from discontinued operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income, net of interest expense
 
97

 
532

 
941

 
1,609

Gain on disposition of properties
 

 
14,597

 
22,819

 
14,597

Income from discontinued operations
 
97

 
15,129

 
23,760

 
16,206

Net income
 
2,101

 
12,208

 
23,680

 
7,578

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling redeemable interest
 
(8
)
 
(12
)
 
1

 
(37
)
Consolidated net income attributable to AERC
 
$
2,093

 
$
12,196

 
$
23,681

 
$
7,541

Property NOI increased as a result of revenue and occupancy increases across the Same Community portfolio and the contributions of the Acquired Properties, partially offset by increased property operating expenses.
The following table presents property NOI results by region:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
 
 
September 30,
 
 
 
September 30,
 
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Property NOI
 
Property NOI
 
Increase
 
Property NOI
 
Property NOI
 
Increase
Same Community Properties:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Midwest
 
$
10,640

 
$
9,917

 
$
723

 
$
31,220

 
$
28,578

 
$
2,642

Mid-Atlantic
 
7,960

 
7,614

 
346

 
23,369

 
22,273

 
1,096

Southeast
 
4,692

 
4,478

 
214

 
12,749

 
12,359

 
390

Southwest
 
345

 
292

 
53

 
1,029

 
864

 
165

Total Same Community
 
23,637

 
22,301

 
1,336

 
68,367

 
64,074

 
4,293

Acquired Properties
 
3,027

 
601

 
2,426

 
7,103

 
1,045

 
6,058

Development Property
 
557

 
(5
)
 
562

 
860

 
(5
)
 
865

Total Property NOI
 
$
27,221

 
$
22,897

 
$
4,324

 
$
76,330

 
$
65,114

 
$
11,216


26


Property revenue. Property revenue is impacted by a combination of net rental rates and occupancy levels, i.e., net collected rent per unit. Physical occupancy at the end of each period and net collected rent per unit are presented in the following tables:
 
 
Physical Occupancy for the
 
Physical Occupancy for the
 
 
Three Month Comparison Period at
 
Nine Month Comparison Period at
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
Same Community Properties:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Midwest
 
97.6%
 
96.7%
 
97.6%
 
96.7%
Mid-Atlantic
 
97.2%
 
94.4%
 
97.2%
 
94.4%
Southeast
 
96.5%
 
90.5%
 
96.5%
 
91.0%
Southwest
 
96.8%
 
98.6%
 
96.8%
 
98.6%
Total Same Community
 
97.3%
 
94.8%
 
97.3%
 
95.0%
Acquired Properties
 
95.8%
 
92.4%
 
95.9%
 
89.0%
 
 
Average Monthly Net Collected Rent Per Unit
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
(In thousands)
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
Same Community Properties:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Midwest
 
$
918

 
$
857

 
$
899

 
$
839

Mid-Atlantic
 
$
1,369

 
$
1,305

 
$
1,343

 
$
1,281

Southeast
 
$
1,054

 
$
1,004

 
$
1,017

 
$
976

Southwest
 
$
925

 
$
884

 
$
919

 
$
870

Total Same Community
 
$
1,053

 
$
994

 
$
1,029

 
$
973

Acquired Properties
 
$
1,218

 
$
2,005

 
$
1,208

 
$
1,590

The following table presents property revenue results:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
 
 
September 30,
 
 
 
September 30,
 
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Property Revenue
 
Property Revenue
 
Increase
 
Property Revenue
 
Property Revenue
 
Increase
Same Community Properties:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Midwest
 
$
18,257

 
$
17,054

 
$
1,203

 
$
53,511

 
$
49,915

 
$
3,596

Mid-Atlantic
 
11,864

 
11,328

 
536

 
34,809

 
33,246

 
1,563

Southeast
 
8,806

 
8,364

 
442

 
23,336

 
22,360

 
976

Southwest
 
635

 
600

 
35

 
1,885

 
1,768

 
117

Total Same Community
 
39,562

 
37,346

 
2,216

 
113,541

 
107,289

 
6,252

Acquired Properties
 
5,041

 
884

 
4,157

 
12,194

 
1,808

 
10,386

Development Property
 
888

 

 
888

 
1,506

 

 
1,506

Total Property Revenue
 
$
45,491

 
$
38,230

 
$
7,261

 
$
127,241

 
$
109,097

 
$
18,144

The increase in Same Community property revenue was a result of increases in net rents and occupancy across substantially all of the portfolio.
Property operating and maintenance expenses. The property operating and maintenance expenses increase was primarily due to the acquisition and development properties and the increases in real estate taxes across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast portfolio in Same Community Properties and personnel expense across substantially all of the portfolio.

27


Depreciation and amortization. The depreciation and amortization expense increase was primarily due to the acquisition and development properties.
General and administrative expense. General and administrative expenses increased primarily due to increases in payroll expense associated with performance bonus award accruals.
Construction and other services. In 2011, we decided to exit the third party construction services business and at December 31, 2011, we had substantially completed our work under all third party construction contracts. We continue to provide general contracting and construction management services for our own account in connection with the development of multifamily properties we will own and operate.
Interest expense. Interest expense increased during the nine month comparison primarily due to the net of the following: $1.7 million in prepayment costs in 2012, the defeasance refund of $279,000, interest incurred on the $125.0 million term loan that closed in June 2011, and a reduction of mortgage loan interest expense resulting from the payoff of seven mortgages during the quarter ended March 31, 2012. Interest expense decreased during the three month comparison due to the net of the following: the reduction of mortgage loan interest expense resulting from the payoff of seven mortgages during the quarter ended March 31, 2012, partially offset by interest incurred on the $125.0 million term loan and unsecured revolver.
Income from discontinued operations. Discontinued operations include the operating results of five properties sold during 2012, two properties sold in 2011, and one property classified as held for sale at September 30, 2012. For further details on "Income from discontinued operations," see Note 3 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements presented in Part 1, Item 1 of this report on Form 10-Q.
We also use FFO, a non-GAAP financial measure, as a measure of our results of operations. We calculate FFO in accordance with the definition adopted by the Board of Governors of the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts ("NAREIT"). This definition includes all operating results, both recurring and non-recurring, except those results defined as "extraordinary items" under GAAP, adjusted for depreciation on real estate assets and amortization of intangible assets, and excludes impairment write-downs of depreciable real estate and gains and losses from the disposition of properties and land. We calculate FFO per share using the weighted average shares outstanding amounts used in the calculation of diluted earnings per share in accordance with GAAP. FFO does not represent cash generated from operating activities in accordance with GAAP and is not necessarily indicative of cash available to fund cash needs and should not be considered an alternative to net income as an indicator of our operating performance or as an alternative to cash flow as a measure of liquidity. FFO is used in the real estate industry as a supplemental measure of the operating performance of real estate companies because it excludes charges such as real estate depreciation and amortization on intangibles assets that are generally considered not to be reflective of the actual value of real estate assets over time. Other real estate companies may define FFO in a different manner.
We calculate FFO as adjusted as FFO, defined above, excluding $1.7 million of prepayment penalties associated with debt repayments and $279,000 of refunds for a previously defeased loan. In accordance with GAAP, these prepayment penalties and refunds on the previously defeased loan are included in interest expense in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income. We are providing this calculation as an alternative FFO calculation as we consider it a more appropriate measure of comparing the operating performance of a company's real estate between periods or as compared to different REITs.

28


A reconciliation of net income attributable to AERC to FFO and FFO as adjusted is as follows:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
September 30,
 
September 30,
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to AERC
$
2,093

 
$
12,196

 
$
23,681

 
$
7,541

Depreciation - real estate assets
12,294

 
11,278

 
35,679

 
32,571

Amortization of intangible assets
1,400

 
2,194

 
3,656

 
6,262

Gain on disposition of properties

 
(14,597
)
 
(22,819
)
 
(14,597
)
Funds from Operations
15,787

 
11,071

 
40,197

 
31,777

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepayment costs

 

 
1,743

 

Refund of defeasance costs on previously defeased loan

 

 
(279
)
 

Funds from Operations as adjusted
$
15,787

 
$
11,071

 
$
41,661

 
$
31,777

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Funds from Operations per common share - diluted
$
0.32

 
$
0.27

 
$
0.89

 
$
0.77

Funds from Operations as adjusted per common share - diluted
$
0.32

 
$
0.27

 
$
0.93

 
$
0.77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted
49,927

 
41,697

 
44,924

 
41,458

CONTINGENCIES
For a discussion of contingencies, see Note 13 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements presented in Part I, Item 1 of this report on Form 10-Q.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are exposed to interest rate changes associated with variable rate debt and the refinancing risk on our fixed-rate debt. Based on our variable rate debt outstanding at September 30, 2012 and 2011, an interest rate change of 100 basis points would impact interest expense approximately $3.5 million and $2.1 million on an annual basis, respectively. We occasionally use derivative instruments to manage our exposure to interest rates. See Note 11 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements presented in Part I, Item 1 of this report on Form 10-Q for additional information regarding derivative instruments and "Item 7A, Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk" of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, for a more complete discussion of interest rate sensitive assets and liabilities.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures. We have evaluated the design and operations of our disclosure controls and procedures to determine that they are effective in ensuring that the disclosure of required information is timely made in accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Exchange Act") and the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission. This evaluation was made under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), as of the end of the period covered by this report on Form 10-Q. The CEO and CFO have concluded, based on their review, that our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e), are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports that we file under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms, and (ii) accumulated and communicated to management, including the principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure.

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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the third quarter of 2012 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting.
We believe that because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not always prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1.        LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
For information related to legal proceedings, see Note 13 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements presented in Part I, Item 1 of this report on Form 10-Q.
ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS
See "Risk Factors" in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.
ITEM 2.        UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities for the Three Months Ended September 30, 2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Approximate Dollar
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Value of Shares
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Number of
 
That May Yet Be
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shares Purchased
 
Purchased Under
 
 
 
 
 
 
As Part of Publicly
 
the Plans of
 
 
Total Number of
 
Average Price Paid
 
Announced Plans
 
Programs
Period
 
Shares Purchased
 
Per Share
 
or Programs
 
(in thousands)
July 1 through
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
July 31
 

 
$

 

 
$
26,288

August 1 through
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
August 31
 
404

 
14.92

 

 
26,288

September 1 through
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
September 30
 

 

 

 
26,288

Total
 
404

 
$
14.92

 

 
 

There is a total of $26.3 million remaining on our Board of Directors' authorization to repurchase our common shares. We did not repurchase any shares using this authority during 2012 and we have no present intention to use this authority to repurchase shares. Additionally, we have a policy which allows employees to pay their portion of the income taxes related to restricted share vesting by surrendering a number of shares to us equal in value on the day of vesting to the amount of taxes due up to the minimum statutory withholding amount. The 404 shares purchased in August 2012 were purchased in connection with that policy.

30


ITEM 6.        EXHIBITS
 
 
Filed herewith
 
 
or incorporated
Number
Title
herein by reference
 
 
 
1.3
Equity Distribution Agreement between Associated Estates Realty Corporation and Barclays Capital Inc.
Exhibit 1.1 to Form 8-K filed August 29, 2012.
 
 
 
1.4
Equity Distribution Agreement between Associated Estates Realty Corporation and Citigroup Global Markets Inc.
Exhibit 1.2 to Form 8-K filed August 29, 2012.
 
 
 
1.5
Equity Distribution Agreement between Associated Estates Realty Corporation and Jefferies & Company, Inc.
Exhibit 1.3 to Form 8-K filed August 29, 2012.
 
 
 
1.6
Equity Distribution Agreement between Associated Estates Realty Corporation and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated.
Exhibit 1.4 to Form 8-K filed August 29, 2012.
 
 
 
1.7
Equity Distribution Agreement between Associated Estates Realty Corporation and Raymond James & Associates, Inc.
Exhibit 1.5 to Form 8-K filed August 29, 2012.
 
 
 
4.1
Second Amendment to Term Loan Agreement dated October 19, 2012, between Associated Estates Realty Corporation and PNC Bank, National Association and the several banks, financial institutions and other entities.
Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K filed October 24, 2012.
 
 
 
4.2
First Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated October 19, 2012, between Associated Estates Realty Corporation and PNC Bank, National Association and the several banks, financial institutions and other entities.
Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K filed October 24, 2012.
 
 
 
31
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act.
Exhibit 31 to Form 10-Q filed herewith.
 
 
 
31.1
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act.
Exhibit 31.1 to Form 10-Q filed herewith.
 
 
 
32
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act.
Exhibit 32 to Form 10-Q filed herewith.

31


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.
 
 
ASSOCIATED ESTATES REALTY CORPORATION
 
 
 
 
 
 
November 2, 2012
 
/s/ Lou Fatica
(Date)
 
Lou Fatica, Vice President
 
 
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

32