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UMH Properties (UMH)
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Umh (UMH) Risk Factors

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Public companies are required to disclose risks that can affect the business and impact the stock. These disclosures are known as “Risk Factors”. Companies disclose these risks in their yearly (Form 10-K), quarterly earnings (Form 10-Q), or “foreign private issuer” reports (Form 20-F). Risk factors show the challenges a company faces. Investors can consider the worst-case scenarios before making an investment. TipRanks’ Risk Analysis categorizes risks based on proprietary classification algorithms and machine learning.

Umh disclosed 61 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Umh reported the most risks in the “Finance & Corporate” category.

Risk Overview Q3, 2024

Risk Distribution
61Risks
39% Finance & Corporate
26% Legal & Regulatory
13% Macro & Political
11% Production
7% Ability to Sell
3% Tech & Innovation
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
This chart displays the stock's most recent risk distribution according to category. TipRanks has identified 6 major categories: Finance & corporate, legal & regulatory, macro & political, production, tech & innovation, and ability to sell.

Risk Change Over Time

2020
Q4
S&P500 Average
Sector Average
Risks removed
Risks added
Risks changed
Umh Risk Factors
New Risk (0)
Risk Changed (0)
Risk Removed (0)
No changes from previous report
The chart shows the number of risks a company has disclosed. You can compare this to the sector average or S&P 500 average.

The quarters shown in the chart are according to the calendar year (January to December). Businesses set their own financial calendar, known as a fiscal year. For example, Walmart ends their financial year at the end of January to accommodate the holiday season.

Risk Highlights Q3, 2024

Main Risk Category
Finance & Corporate
With 24 Risks
Finance & Corporate
With 24 Risks
Number of Disclosed Risks
61
No changes from last report
S&P 500 Average: 31
61
No changes from last report
S&P 500 Average: 31
Recent Changes
0Risks added
0Risks removed
0Risks changed
Since Sep 2024
0Risks added
0Risks removed
0Risks changed
Since Sep 2024
Number of Risk Changed
0
No changes from last report
S&P 500 Average: 3
0
No changes from last report
S&P 500 Average: 3
See the risk highlights of Umh in the last period.

Risk Word Cloud

The most common phrases about risk factors from the most recent report. Larger texts indicate more widely used phrases.

Risk Factors Full Breakdown - Total Risks 61

Finance & Corporate
Total Risks: 24/61 (39%)Below Sector Average
Share Price & Shareholder Rights9 | 14.8%
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 1
The existing mechanism for the dual listing of securities on the NYSE and the TASE may be eliminated or modified in a manner that may subject us to additional regulatory burden and additional costs.
The current Israeli regulatory regime provides a mechanism for the dual-listing of securities traded on the NYSE and the TASE that does not impose any significant regulatory burden or significant costs on us. If this dual-listing regime is eliminated or modified, it may become more difficult for us to comply with the regulatory requirements, and this could result in additional costs. In such event, we may consider delisting of our Common Stock from the TASE.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 2
The dual listing of our Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange ("TASE") may result in price variations that could adversely affect liquidity of the market for our Common Stock.
Our Common Stock is listed and trades on both the NYSE and the TASE. The dual listing may result in price variations of our Common Stock between the two exchanges due to various factors, including the use of different currencies and the different days and hours of trading for the two exchanges. Any decrease in the trading price of our Common Stock in one market could cause a decrease in the trading price in the other market. In addition, the dual-listing may adversely affect liquidity and trading prices on one or both of the exchanges as a result of circumstances that may be outside of our control. For example, transfers by holders of our securities from trading on one exchange to the other could result in increases or decreases in liquidity and/or trading prices on either or both of the exchanges. Holders could also seek to sell or buy our Common Stock to take advantage of any price differences between the two markets through a practice referred to as arbitrage. Any such arbitrage activity could create volatility in both the price and volume of trading of our Common Stock.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 3
There are restrictions on the transfer of our capital stock.
To maintain our qualification as a REIT under the Code, no more than 50% in value of our outstanding capital stock may be owned, actually or by attribution, by five or fewer individuals, as defined in the Code to also include certain entities, during the last half of a taxable year. Accordingly, our charter contains provisions restricting the transfer of our capital stock. These restrictions may discourage a tender offer or other transaction, or a change in management or of control of us that might involve a premium price for our Series D Preferred Stock or Common Stock or that our shareholders otherwise believe to be in their best interests, and may result in the transfer of shares acquired in excess of the restrictions to a trust for the benefit of a charitable beneficiary and, as a result, the forfeiture by the acquirer of the benefits of owning the additional shares.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 4
Future issuance or sale of additional shares of Preferred Stock or Common Stock or other securities could adversely affect the trading prices of our outstanding Series D Preferred Stock and Common Stock.
Future issuances or sales of substantial numbers of shares of our Preferred Stock or Common Stock or other securities in the public market, or the perception that such issuances or sales might occur, could adversely affect the per-share trading prices of our Preferred Stock or Common Stock. The per-share trading price of our Preferred Stock or Common Stock may decline significantly upon the sale or registration of additional shares of our Preferred Stock or Common Stock or other securities.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 5
The market prices and trading volumes of our Series D Preferred Stock may fluctuate significantly.
Although our Series D Preferred Stock is listed and traded on the NYSE, the trading markets for the Series D Preferred Stock is limited. Since the Series D Preferred Stock has no maturity date, investors seeking liquidity may elect to sell their shares of Series D Preferred Stock in the secondary market. If an active trading market does not exist, the market price and liquidity of the Series D Preferred Stock may be adversely affected by such sales. Even if an active public market exists, we cannot guarantee that the market price for the Series D Preferred Stock will equal or exceed the price that investors in the Series D Preferred Stock paid for their shares.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 6
The market price and trading volume of our Common Stock may fluctuate significantly.
The per-share trading price of our Common Stock may fluctuate. In addition, the trading volume in our Common Stock may fluctuate and cause significant price variations to occur. If the per-share trading price of our Common Stock declines significantly, investors in our Common Stock may be unable to resell their shares at or above their purchase price. We cannot provide any assurance that the per-share trading price of our Common Stock will not fluctuate or decline significantly in the future. Some of the factors that could negatively affect our share price or result in fluctuations in the price or trading volume of our stock include: - actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly operating results or dividends;   - changes in our funds from operations or earnings estimates;   - publication of research reports about us or the real estate industry;   - prevailing interest rates;   - the market for similar securities;   - changes in market valuations of similar companies;   - adverse market reaction to any additional debt we incur in the future;   - additions or departures of key management personnel;- actions by institutional shareholders;   - speculation in the press or investment community;   - the extent of investor interest in our securities;   - the general reputation of REITs and the attractiveness of our equity securities in comparison to other equity securities, including securities issued by other real estate-based companies;   - our underlying asset value;   - investor confidence in the stock and bond markets, generally;   - changes in tax laws;   - future equity issuances;   - failure to meet earnings estimates;   - failure to maintain our REIT status;   - changes in valuation of our REIT securities portfolio;   - general economic and financial market conditions;   - war, terrorist acts and epidemic disease, including the COVID-19 pandemic or other highly infectious or contagious diseases;   - our issuance of debt or preferred equity securities;   - our financial condition, results of operations and prospects; and   - the realization of any of the other risk factors presented in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. In the past, securities class action litigation has often been instituted against companies following periods of volatility in the price of their Common Stock. This type of litigation could result in substantial costs and divert our management's attention and resources, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flow and per-share trading price of our Common Stock.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 7
The market value of our Series D Preferred Stock and Common Stock could decrease based on our performance and market perception and conditions.
The market value of our Series D Preferred Stock and Common Stock may be based primarily upon the market's perception of our growth potential and current and future cash dividends, and may be secondarily based upon the real estate market value of our underlying assets. The market price of our Series D Preferred Stock and Common Stock is influenced by their respective distributions relative to market interest rates. Rising interest rates may lead potential buyers of our stock to expect a higher distribution rate, which could adversely affect the market price of our stock. In addition, rising interest rates would result in increased expense, thereby adversely affecting cash flow and our ability to service our indebtedness and pay distributions.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 8
We may amend our business policies without shareholder approval.
Our Board of Directors determines our growth, investment, financing, capitalization, borrowing, REIT status, operations and distributions policies. Although our Board of Directors has no present intention to change or reverse any of these policies, they may be amended or revised without notice to shareholders. Accordingly, shareholders may not have control over changes in our policies. We cannot assure you that changes in our policies will fully serve the interests of all shareholders.
Share Price & Shareholder Rights - Risk 9
Some of our directors and officers may have conflicts of interest with respect to certain related party transactions and other business interests.
Mr. Eugene W. Landy, the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company, previously owned a 24% interest in the entity that is the landlord of the property in Freehold, New Jersey where the Company's executive offices are located. Effective January 2023, Mr. Eugene Landy transferred this ownership to his son, Mr. Samuel A. Landy, the President and Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Company, and other family members. Effective October 1, 2019, the Company entered into a new lease for these executive offices in Freehold, New Jersey which combined the existing corporate office space with additional adjacent office space. This new lease extended the previous lease through April 30, 2027 and required monthly lease payments of $23,098 through April 30, 2022 and $23,302 from May 1, 2022 through April 30, 2027. The Company is also responsible for its proportionate share of real estate taxes and common area maintenance. Mr. Samuel A. Landy may have a conflict of interest with respect to his obligations as our officer and/or director and his ownership interest in the landlord of the property. Further, Mr. Eugene W. Landy owns a 9.6% interest, Mr. Samuel A. Landy owns a 4.8% interest, Mr. Daniel Landy, who is also an officer of the Company and is Samuel A. Landy's son, owns a 0.96% interest, and the Samuel Landy Family Limited Partnership (of which Daniel Landy is the sole general partner) own a 0.96% interest in the qualified opportunity zone fund, UMH OZ Fund, LLC ("OZ Fund"), that was formed by the Company in 2022. In addition, one of the Company's independent directors owns a 0.96% interest in the OZ Fund.
Accounting & Financial Operations2 | 3.3%
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 1
If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls, we may not be able to accurately report financial results, which could result in a loss of investor confidence and adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
We are required by securities laws and provisions of our debt instruments to establish and maintain internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Disclosure controls and procedures are processes designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed is communicated to management and reported in a timely manner. We cannot be certain that we will be successful in continuing to maintain adequate control over our financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. Deficiencies, including any material weakness, in our internal control over financial reporting that may occur could result in misstatements or restatements of our financial statements or a decline in the price of our securities. In addition, as our business continues to grow, and as we continue to make significant acquisitions, our internal controls will become more complex and may require significantly more resources to ensure that our disclosure controls and procedures remain effective. Acquisitions can pose challenges in implementing the required processes, procedures and controls in the operations of the companies that we acquire. Any companies that are acquired by us may not have disclosure controls and procedures or internal control over financial reporting that are as thorough or effective as those required by the securities laws that currently apply to us. Moreover, the existence of any material weakness or significant deficiency in our internal controls and procedures would require management to devote significant time and incur significant expense to remediate any such material weaknesses or significant deficiencies and management may not be able to remediate any such material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in a timely manner. If we do not maintain an effective system of internal controls and cannot provide reliable financial reports, our reputation, operating results and access to capital could be materially adversely affected, which could lead to a loss of confidence by investors in our reported financial information, which in turn could adversely affect the trading price of our common stock and preferred stock.
Accounting & Financial Operations - Risk 2
Dividends on our capital stock do not qualify for the reduced federal tax rates available for some dividends (i.e., they are not qualified dividends).
Income from "qualified dividends" payable to U.S. shareholders that are individuals, trusts and estates are generally subject to tax at preferential rates. Dividends payable by REITs, however, generally are not eligible for the preferential tax rates applicable to qualified dividend income. Although these rules do not adversely affect our taxation or the dividends payable by us, to the extent that the preferential rates continue to apply to regular corporate qualified dividends, investors who are individuals, trusts and estates may perceive an investment in us to be relatively less attractive than an investment in the stock of a non-REIT corporation that pays qualified dividends, which could materially and adversely affect the value of the shares of, and per share trading price of, our capital stock. It should be noted that the TCJA provides for a deduction from income for individuals, trusts and estates up to 20% of certain REIT dividends, which reduces the effective tax rate on such dividends below the effective tax rate on interest, though the deduction is generally not as favorable as the preferential rate on qualified dividends. The deduction for certain REIT dividends, unlike the favorable rate for qualified dividends, currently expires after 2025.
Debt & Financing11 | 18.0%
Debt & Financing - Risk 1
We may not be able to obtain adequate cash to fund our business.
Our business requires access to adequate cash to finance our operations, distributions, capital expenditures, debt service obligations, development and redevelopment costs and property acquisition costs, if any. We expect to generate the cash to be used for these purposes primarily with operating cash flow, borrowings under secured and unsecured loans, proceeds from sales of strategically identified assets and, when market conditions permit, through the issuance of debt and equity securities from time to time. We may not be able to generate sufficient cash to fund our business, particularly if we are unable to renew leases, lease vacant space or re-lease space as leases expire according to our expectations.
Debt & Financing - Risk 2
We may not have sufficient cash available from operations to pay distributions to our shareholders, and, therefore, distributions may be made from borrowings.
The actual amount and timing of distributions to our shareholders will be determined by our Board of Directors in its discretion and typically will depend on the amount of cash available for distribution, which will depend on items such as current and projected cash requirements, limitations on distributions imposed by law on our financing arrangements and tax considerations. As a result, we may not have sufficient cash available from operations to pay distributions as required to maintain our status as a REIT. Therefore, we may need to borrow funds to make sufficient cash distributions in order to maintain our status as a REIT, which may cause us to incur additional interest expense as a result of an increase in borrowed funds for the purpose of paying distributions.
Debt & Financing - Risk 3
Future issuances of our debt securities, which would be senior to our Series D Preferred Stock upon liquidation, or preferred equity securities which may be senior to our Series D Preferred Stock for purposes of dividend distributions or upon liquidation, may adversely affect the per-share trading prices of our Series D Preferred Stock.
In the future, we may attempt to increase our capital resources by issuing additional debt securities and/or additional classes or series of preferred stock. Upon liquidation, holders of our debt securities and lenders with respect to other borrowings will be entitled to receive our available assets prior to any distribution to holders of our Series D Preferred Stock. Additionally, any convertible or exchangeable securities that we issue in the future may have rights, preferences and privileges more favorable than those of our Series D Preferred Stock. Any shares of preferred stock that we issue in the future could have a preference on liquidating distributions or a preference on dividend payments that could limit our ability to pay dividends to holders of our Series D Preferred Stock. Any such future issuances may adversely affect the trading price of our Series D Preferred Stock.
Debt & Financing - Risk 4
Covenants in our credit agreements and other debt instruments could limit our flexibility and adversely affect our financial condition.
The terms of our various credit agreements and other indebtedness require us to comply with a number of customary financial and other covenants, such as maintaining debt service coverage and leverage ratios and maintaining insurance coverage. These covenants may limit our flexibility in our operations, and breaches of these covenants could result in defaults under the instruments governing the applicable indebtedness even if we had satisfied our payment obligations. If we were to default under our credit agreements, our financial condition would be adversely affected.
Debt & Financing - Risk 5
We are subject to risks associated with the current interest rate environment, and changes in interest rates may affect our cost of capital and, consequently, our financial results.
In 2022 and 2023, the U.S. Federal Reserve raised short term interest rates by a total of 4.25% and 1.00%, respectively. Although rates have recently stabilized, additional interest rate increases may be possible. Changing interest rates may have unpredictable effects on markets, may result in heightened market volatility and may affect our ability to complete potential acquisitions. Because a portion of our debt bears interest at variable rates, in periods of rising interest rates, such as the current interest rate environment, our cost of funds would increase, which could adversely affect our cash flows, financial condition and results of operations, ability to make distributions to shareholders, and the cost of refinancing. and reduce our access to the debt or equity capital markets. Increased interest rates could also adversely affect the value of our properties to the extent that it decreases the amount buyers may be willing to pay for our properties. Additionally, if we choose to hedge any interest rate risk, we cannot assure that any such hedge will be effective or that our hedging counterparty will meet its obligations to us. As a result, increased interest rates, including any future increases in interest rates, could adversely affect us.
Debt & Financing - Risk 6
We may become more highly leveraged, resulting in increased risk of default on our obligations and an increase in debt service requirements which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations and our ability to pay distributions.
We have incurred, and may continue to incur, indebtedness in furtherance of our activities. Our governing documents do not limit the amount of indebtedness we may incur. Accordingly, our Board of Directors may vote to incur additional debt and would do so, for example, if it were necessary to maintain our status as a REIT. We could therefore become more highly leveraged, resulting in an increased risk of default on our obligations and in an increase in debt service requirements, which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations and our ability to pay distributions to shareholders.
Debt & Financing - Risk 7
We face risks associated with our dependence on external sources of capital.
In order to qualify as a REIT, we are required each year to distribute to our shareholders at least 90% of our REIT taxable income, and we are subject to tax on our income to the extent it is not distributed. Because of this distribution requirement, we may not be able to fund all future capital needs from cash retained from operations. As a result, to fund capital needs, we rely on third-party sources of capital, which we may not be able to obtain on favorable terms, if at all. Our access to third-party sources of capital depends upon a number of factors, including (i) general market conditions; (ii) the market's perception of our growth potential; (iii) our current and potential future earnings and cash distributions; and (iv) the market price of our Series D Preferred Stock and Common Stock and any other securities we issue. Additional debt financing may substantially increase our debt-to-total capitalization ratio. Additional equity issuance may dilute the holdings of our current shareholders.
Debt & Financing - Risk 8
We mortgage our properties, which subjects us to the risk of foreclosure in the event of non-payment.
We mortgage many of our properties to secure payment of indebtedness. If we are unable to meet mortgage payments, then the property could be foreclosed upon or transferred to the mortgagee with a consequent loss of income and asset value. A foreclosure of one or more of our properties could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flow, ability to service debt and make distributions and the market price of our Series D Preferred Stock and Common Stock and any other securities we issue.
Debt & Financing - Risk 9
We face risks generally associated with our debt.
We finance a portion of our investments in properties and marketable securities through debt. We are subject to the risks normally associated with debt financing, including the risk that our cash flow will be insufficient to meet required payments of principal and interest. In addition, debt creates other risks, including: - rising interest rates on our variable rate debt;   - inability to repay or refinance existing debt as it matures, which may result in forced disposition of assets on disadvantageous terms;   - refinancing terms less favorable than the terms of existing debt; and   - failure to meet required payments of principal and/or interest. To the extent we cannot refinance debt on favorable terms or at all, we may be forced to dispose of properties on disadvantageous terms or pay higher interest rates, either of which would have an adverse impact on our financial performance and ability to service debt and make distributions.
Debt & Financing - Risk 10
We face risks associated with the financing of home sales to customers in our manufactured home communities.
To produce new rental revenue and to upgrade our communities, we sell homes to customers in our communities at competitive prices and finance these home sales through S&F. We allow banks and outside finance companies the first opportunity to finance these sales. We are subject to the following risks in financing these homes: - the borrowers may default on these loans and not be able to make debt service payments or pay principal when due;   - the default rates may be higher than we anticipate;   - demand for consumer financing may not be as great as we anticipate or may decline;   - the value of property securing the installment notes receivable may be less than the amounts owed; and   - interest rates payable on the installment notes receivable may be lower than our cost of funds. Additionally, there are many regulations pertaining to our home sales and financing activities. There are significant consumer protection laws and the regulatory framework may change in a manner which may adversely affect our operating results. The regulatory environment and associated consumer finance laws create a risk of greater liability from our home sales and financing activities and could subject us to additional litigation. We are also dependent on licenses granted by state and other regulatory authorities, which may be withdrawn or which may not be renewed and which could have an adverse impact on our ability to continue with our home sales and financing activities.
Debt & Financing - Risk 11
The termination of our third-party lending program could adversely affect us.
S&F currently relies exclusively on its third-party lending program for all loan origination and servicing activity. As a result, the termination of our third-party lending program could impact our ability to continue with our home financing activities.
Corporate Activity and Growth2 | 3.3%
Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 1
We may not be able to integrate or finance our acquisitions and our acquisitions may not perform as expected.
We acquire and intend to continue to acquire manufactured home communities on a select basis. Our acquisition activities and their success are subject to risks, including the following: - if we enter into an acquisition agreement for a property, it is usually subject to customary conditions to closing, including completion of due diligence investigations to our satisfaction, which may not be satisfied;   - we may be unable to finance acquisitions on favorable terms;   - acquired properties may fail to perform as expected;   - the actual costs of repositioning or redeveloping acquired properties may be higher than our estimates;   - acquired properties may be located in new markets where we face risks associated with a lack of market knowledge or understanding of the local economy, lack of business relationships in the area and unfamiliarity with local governmental and permitting procedures; and   - we may be unable to quickly and efficiently integrate new acquisitions, particularly acquisitions of portfolios of properties, into our existing operations. If any of the above were to occur, our business and results of operations could be adversely affected. In addition, we may acquire properties subject to liabilities and without any recourse, or with only limited recourse, with respect to unknown liabilities. As a result, if a liability were to be asserted against us based upon ownership of those properties, we might have to pay substantial sums to settle it, which could adversely affect our cash flow.
Corporate Activity and Growth - Risk 2
Our joint venture relationship with Nuveen Real Estate may subject us to risks, including limitations on our decision-making authority and the risk of disputes, which could adversely affect us.
We have entered into joint venture arrangements with Nuveen Real Estate to acquire manufactured home communities that are recently developed or under development. We are required to contribute 40% of the capital required for investments by the joint venture entities. It is possible that our joint venture partner, Nuveen Real Estate, may have business interests, goals, priorities or concerns that are different from our business interests, goals, priorities or concerns. Although we manage the joint venture entities and their properties, we do not have full control over decisions and require approval of Nuveen Real Estate for major decisions. As a result, we may face the risk of disputes, including potential deadlocks in making decisions. In addition, the joint venture agreements provide that until the capital contributions to the joint venture entities are fully funded or the joint venture is terminated, and unless Nuveen declines an acquisition proposed by us, the joint venture will be the exclusive vehicle for us to acquire any manufactured home communities that meet the joint venture's investment guidelines. Nuveen Real Estate will have the right to remove and replace us as managing member of the joint venture entities and manager of the joint venture's properties if we breach certain obligations or certain events occur, in which event Nuveen Real Estate may elect to buy out our interest in the applicable joint venture entity at 98% of its value.  There are also significant restrictions on our ability to exit the joint venture. Any of these provisions could adversely affect us.
Legal & Regulatory
Total Risks: 16/61 (26%)Above Sector Average
Regulation5 | 8.2%
Regulation - Risk 1
To qualify as a REIT, we must comply with certain highly technical and complex requirements.
We cannot be certain we have complied, and will always be able to comply, with the requirements to qualify as a REIT because there are few judicial and administrative interpretations of these provisions. In addition, facts and circumstances that may be beyond our control may affect our ability to continue to qualify as a REIT. We cannot assure you that new legislation, regulations, administrative interpretations or court decisions will not change the tax laws significantly with respect to our qualification as a REIT or with respect to the federal income tax consequences of qualification. We believe that we have qualified as a REIT since our inception and intend to continue to qualify as a REIT. However, we cannot assure you that we are so qualified or will remain so qualified.
Regulation - Risk 2
We may be adversely affected if we fail to qualify as a REIT
If we fail to qualify as a REIT, we will not be allowed to deduct distributions to shareholders in computing our taxable income and will be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates and possibly increased state and local taxes. In addition, we might be barred from qualification as a REIT for the four years following the year of disqualification. The additional tax incurred at regular corporate rates would reduce significantly the cash flow available for distribution to shareholders and for debt service. Furthermore, we would no longer be required to make any distributions to our shareholders as a condition to REIT qualification. Any distributions to shareholders would be taxable as ordinary income to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, although such dividend distributions to non-corporate shareholders would be subject to a maximum federal income tax rate of 20% (and potentially a federal tax on net investment income of 3.8%), provided applicable requirements of the Code are satisfied. Furthermore, corporate shareholders may be eligible for the dividends received deduction on the distributions, subject to limitations under the Code. Additionally, if we fail to qualify as a REIT, non-corporate shareholders would no longer be able to deduct up to 20% of our dividends (other than capital gain dividends and dividends treated as qualified dividend income), as would otherwise generally be permitted for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2026.
Regulation - Risk 3
We are subject to restrictions that may impede our ability to effect a change in control.
Certain provisions contained in our charter and bylaws and certain provisions of Maryland law may have the effect of discouraging a third party from making an acquisition proposal for us and thereby inhibit a change in control. These provisions include the following: - Our charter provides for three classes of directors with the term of office of one class expiring each year, commonly referred to as a "staggered board." By preventing common shareholders from voting on the election of more than one class of directors at any annual meeting of shareholders, this provision may have the effect of keeping the current members of our Board of Directors in control for a longer period of time than shareholders may desire.   - Our charter generally limits any holder from acquiring more than 9.8% (in value or in number, whichever is more restrictive) of our outstanding equity stock (defined as all of our classes of capital stock, except our excess stock). While this provision is intended to assure our ability to remain a qualified REIT for Federal income tax purposes, the ownership limit may also limit the opportunity for shareholders to receive a premium for their shares of Common Stock that might otherwise exist if an investor was attempting to assemble a block of shares in excess of 9.8% of the outstanding shares of equity stock or otherwise effect a change in control.   - The request of shareholders entitled to cast at least a majority of all votes entitled to be cast at such meeting is necessary for shareholders to call a special meeting. We also require advance notice by common shareholders for the nomination of directors or proposals of business to be considered at a meeting of shareholders.   - Our Board of Directors may authorize and cause us to issue securities without shareholder approval. Under our charter, the board has the power to classify and reclassify any of our unissued shares of capital stock into shares of capital stock with such preferences, rights, powers and restrictions as the Board of Directors may determine.   - "Business combination" provisions that provide that, unless exempted, a Maryland corporation may not engage in certain business combinations, including mergers, dispositions of 10% or more of its assets, certain issuances of shares of stock and other specified transactions, with an "interested shareholder" or an affiliate of an interested shareholder for five years after the most recent date on which the interested shareholder became an interested shareholder, and thereafter unless specified criteria are met. An interested shareholder is defined generally as any person who beneficially owns 10% or more of the voting power of our shares or an affiliate thereof or an affiliate or associate of ours who was the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of 10% or more of the voting power of our then outstanding voting stock at any time within the two-year period immediately prior to the date in question.   - The duties of directors of a Maryland corporation do not require them to, among other things (a) accept, recommend or respond to any proposal by a person seeking to acquire control of the corporation, (b) authorize the corporation to redeem any rights under, or modify or render inapplicable, any shareholders rights plan, (c) make a determination under the Maryland Business Combination Act or the Maryland Control Share Acquisition Act to exempt any person or transaction from the requirements of those provisions, or (d) act or fail to act solely because of the effect of the act or failure to act may have on an acquisition or potential acquisition of control of the corporation or the amount or type of consideration that may be offered or paid to the shareholders in an acquisition.
Regulation - Risk 4
Licensing laws and compliance could affect our profitability.
Our subsidiary S&F is subject to the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act of 2008 ("SAFE Act"), which requires that we obtain appropriate licenses pursuant to the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System & Registry in each state where S&F conducts business. There are extensive federal and state requirements mandated by the SAFE Act and other laws pertaining to financing, including the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and there can be no assurance that we will obtain or renew our SAFE Act licenses, which could result in fees and penalties and have an adverse impact on our ability to continue with our home financing activities.
Regulation - Risk 5
Rent control legislation may harm our ability to increase rents.
State and local rent control laws in certain jurisdictions may limit our ability to increase rents and to recover increases in operating expenses and the costs of capital improvements. In 2019, the State of New York enacted the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019, which, among other things, set maximum collectible rent increases. Rent control also affects three of our manufactured home communities in New Jersey. Enactment of such laws has been considered at various times in other jurisdictions. We presently expect to continue to maintain properties, and may purchase additional properties, in markets that are either subject to rent control or in which rent related legislation exists or may be enacted.
Litigation & Legal Liabilities1 | 1.6%
Litigation & Legal Liabilities - Risk 1
We are subject to risks arising from litigation.
We may become involved in litigation. Litigation can be costly, and the results of litigation are often difficult to predict. We may not have adequate insurance coverage or contractual protection to cover costs and liability in the event we are sued, and to the extent we resort to litigation to enforce our rights, we may incur significant costs and ultimately be unsuccessful or unable to recover amounts we believe are owed to us. We may have little or no control of the timing of litigation, which presents challenges to our strategic planning.
Taxation & Government Incentives7 | 11.5%
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 1
Our opportunity zone fund may fail to qualify for the tax benefits available for investments in qualified opportunity zones under the detailed rules adopted by the Internal Revenue Service.
Some aspects of the Qualified Opportunity Zone rules adopted by the Internal Revenue Service remain uncertain. Legislation may be needed to clarify certain of the provisions in the Qualified Opportunity Zone rules and to give proper effect to Congressional intent as expressed in the TCJA. No assurance can be provided that additional legislation will be enacted, and even if enacted, that such additional legislation will clearly address all items that require or would benefit from clarification. It is unclear if additional guidance will be released, or in what manner the Treasury Department will resolve any remaining areas of uncertainty. Accordingly, there can be no guarantee that our opportunity zone fund will qualify under the Qualified Opportunity Zone rules as a Qualified Opportunity Zone fund or that the Company will be able to realize, through its investment in the fund, any of the desired tax benefits.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 2
We may be required to pay a penalty tax upon the sale of property that is determined to be held for sale to customers.
The federal income tax provisions applicable to REITs provide that any gain realized by a REIT on the sale of property held as inventory or other property held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business is treated as income from a "prohibited transaction" that is subject to a 100% penalty tax. Under current law, unless a sale of real property qualifies for a safe harbor, the question of whether the sale of real estate or other property constitutes the sale of property held primarily for sale to customers is generally a question of the facts and circumstances regarding a particular transaction. We intend that we and our subsidiaries will hold the interests in the real estate for investment with a view to long-term appreciation, engage in the business of acquiring and owning real estate, and make occasional sales as are consistent with our investment objectives. We do not intend to engage in prohibited transactions. We cannot assure you, however, that we will only make sales that satisfy the requirements of the safe harbors or that the IRS will not successfully assert that one or more of such sales are prohibited transactions.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 3
Failure to make required distributions would subject us to additional tax.
In order to qualify as a REIT, we must, among other requirements, distribute, each year, to our shareholders at least 90% of our taxable income, excluding net capital gains. To the extent that we satisfy the 90% distribution requirement, but distribute less than 100% of our taxable income, we will be subject to federal corporate income tax on our undistributed income. In addition, we will incur a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the amount, if any, by which our distributions (or deemed distributions) in any year are less than the sum of: - 85% of our ordinary income for that year;   - 95% of our capital gain net earnings for that year; and   - 100% of our undistributed taxable income from prior years. To the extent we pay out in excess of 100% of our taxable income for any tax year, we may be able to carry forward such excess to subsequent years to reduce our required distributions for purposes of the 4% nondeductible excise tax in such subsequent years. We intend to pay out our income to our shareholders in a manner intended to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement. Differences in timing between the recognition of income and the related cash receipts or the effect of required debt amortization payments could require us to borrow money or sell assets to pay out enough of our taxable income to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement and to avoid corporate income tax.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 4
Notwithstanding our status as a REIT, we are subject to various federal, state and local taxes on our income and property.
For example, we will be taxed at regular corporate rates on any undistributed taxable income, including undistributed net capital gains; provided, however, that properly designated undistributed capital gains will effectively avoid taxation at the shareholder level. We may be subject to other Federal income taxes and may also have to pay some state income or franchise taxes because not all states treat REITs in the same manner as they are treated for federal income tax purposes.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 5
Our taxable REIT subsidiary ("TRS") is subject to special rules that may result in increased taxes.
As a REIT, we must pay a 100% penalty tax on certain payments that we receive or on certain deductions taken if the economic arrangements between us and our TRS are not comparable to similar arrangements between unrelated parties. The IRS may successfully assert that the economic arrangements of any of our inter-company transactions are not comparable to similar arrangements between unrelated parties, and may assess the above 100% penalty tax or make other reallocations of income or loss. This would result in unexpected tax liability which would adversely affect our cash flows.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 6
We may be unable to comply with the strict income distribution requirements applicable to REITs.
To maintain qualification as a REIT under the Code, a REIT must annually distribute to its shareholders at least 90% of its REIT taxable income, excluding the dividends paid deduction and net capital gains. This requirement limits our ability to accumulate capital. We may not have sufficient cash or other liquid assets to meet the distribution requirements. Difficulties in meeting the distribution requirements might arise due to competing demands for our funds or to timing differences between tax reporting and cash receipts and disbursements, because income may have to be reported before cash is received, because expenses may have to be paid before a deduction is allowed, because deductions may be disallowed or limited or because the IRS may make a determination that adjusts reported income. In those situations, we might be required to borrow funds or sell properties on adverse terms in order to meet the distribution requirements and interest and penalties could apply which could adversely affect our financial condition. If we fail to make a required distribution, we could cease to be taxed as a REIT.
Taxation & Government Incentives - Risk 7
There is a risk of changes in the tax law applicable to REITs.
Because the IRS, the U.S. Treasury Department and Congress frequently review federal income tax legislation, we cannot predict whether, when or to what extent new federal tax laws, regulations, interpretations or rulings will be adopted. Numerous changes to the U.S. federal income tax laws are proposed on a regular basis. Any of such legislative action may prospectively or retroactively modify our tax treatment and, therefore, may adversely affect taxation of us and/or our investors. Additionally, the REIT rules are continually under review by persons involved in the legislative process and by the IRS and the U.S. Treasury Department, which may result in revisions to regulations and interpretations in addition to statutory changes. Furthermore, members of the U.S. Congress and the Biden administration have expressed intent to pass legislation to change or repeal parts of currently enacted tax law, including, in particular, legislation that will increase corporate tax rates from the current flat rate of 21%. If enacted, certain proposed changes could have an adverse impact on our business and financial results. Importantly, legislation has been proposed in several states specifically taxing REITs. If such legislation were to be enacted, our income from such states would be adversely impacted.
Environmental / Social3 | 4.9%
Environmental / Social - Risk 1
We face risks relating to expanding use of social media mediums.
The use of social media could cause us to suffer brand damage or information leakage. Negative posts or comments about us or our properties on any social networking website could damage our, or our properties' reputations. In addition, employees or others might disclose non-public sensitive information relating to our business through external media channels. The continuing evolution of social media may present us with new challenges and risks. The considerable increase in the use of social media over recent years has greatly expanded the potential scope and scale, and increased the rapidity of the dissemination of negative publicity that could be generated by negative posts and comments.
Environmental / Social - Risk 2
Third-party expectations relating to environmental, social and governance factors may impose additional costs and expose us to new risks.
There is an increasing focus from certain investors concerning corporate responsibility, specifically related to environmental, social and governance factors. In addition, there is an increased focus on such matters by various regulatory authorities, including the SEC, and the activities and expense required to comply with new regulations or standards may be significant. Some investors may use these factors to guide their investment strategies and, in some cases, may choose not to invest in us if they believe our policies relating to corporate responsibility are inadequate. Third-party providers of corporate responsibility ratings and reports on companies have increased in number, resulting in varied and in some cases inconsistent standards. In addition, the criteria by which companies' corporate responsibility practices are assessed and the regulations applicable thereto are evolving, which could result in greater expectations of us and cause us to undertake costly initiatives or activities to satisfy such new criteria or regulations. Further, if we elect not to or are unable to satisfy such new criteria or do not meet the criteria of a specific third-party provider, some investors may conclude that our policies with respect to corporate responsibility are inadequate. We may face reputational damage in the event that our corporate responsibility procedures or standards do not meet the standards set by various constituencies. Furthermore, if our competitors' corporate responsibility performance is perceived to be superior to ours, potential or current investors may elect to invest in our competitors instead of us. In addition, we could fail, or be perceived to fail, in our achievement of our initiatives and goals with respect to environmental, social and governance matters, or we could be criticized for the scope of such initiatives or goals. If we fail to satisfy the expectations of investors, our initiatives are not executed as planned, or we do not satisfy our goals, our reputation and financial results could be adversely affected.
Environmental / Social - Risk 3
Environmental liabilities could affect our profitability.
Under various federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations, an owner or operator of real estate is liable for the costs of removal or remediation of certain hazardous substances at, on, under or in such property, as well as certain other potential costs relating to hazardous or toxic substances. Such laws often impose such liability without regard to whether the owner knew of, or was responsible for, the presence of such hazardous substances. A conveyance of the property, therefore, does not relieve the owner or operator from liability. As a current or former owner and operator of real estate, we may be required by law to investigate and clean up hazardous substances released at or from the properties we currently own or operate or have in the past owned or operated. We may also be liable to the government or to third parties for property damage, investigation costs and cleanup costs. In addition, some environmental laws create a lien on the contaminated site in favor of the government for damages and costs the government incurs in connection with the contamination. Contamination may adversely affect our ability to sell or lease real estate or to borrow using the real estate as collateral. Persons who arrange for the disposal or treatment of hazardous substances also may be liable for the costs of removal or remediation of such substances at a disposal or treatment facility owned or operated by another person. In addition, certain environmental laws impose liability for the management and disposal of asbestos-containing materials and for the release of such materials into the air. These laws may provide for third parties to seek recovery from owners or operators of real properties for personal injury associated with asbestos-containing materials. In connection with the ownership, operation, management, and development of real properties, we may be considered an owner or operator of such properties and, therefore, are potentially liable for removal or remediation costs, and also may be liable for governmental fines and injuries to persons and property. When we arrange for the treatment or disposal of hazardous substances at landfills or other facilities owned by other persons, we may be liable for the removal or remediation costs at such facilities. We are not aware of any environmental liabilities relating to our investment properties which would have a material adverse effect on our business, assets, or results of operations. However, we cannot assure you that environmental liabilities will not arise in the future and that such liabilities will not have a material adverse effect on our business, assets or results of operations. Of the 135 manufactured home communities we operated as of December 31, 2023, 46 have their own wastewater treatment facility or water distribution system, or both. At these locations, we are subject to compliance with monthly, quarterly and yearly testing for contaminants as outlined by the individual state's environmental protection agencies. In connection with the management of the properties or upon acquisition or financing of a property, the Company authorizes the preparation of Phase I or similar environmental reports (which involves general inspections without soil sampling or ground water analysis) completed by independent environmental consultants. Based upon such environmental reports and the Company's ongoing review of its properties, as of the date of this Annual Report, the Company is not aware of any environmental condition with respect to any of its properties which it believes would be reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and/or results of operations. However, these reports cannot reflect conditions arising after the studies were completed, and no assurances can be given that existing environmental studies reveal all environmental liabilities, that any prior owner or operator of a property or neighboring owner or operator did not create any material environmental condition not known to us, or that a material environmental condition does not otherwise exist as to any one or more properties.
Macro & Political
Total Risks: 8/61 (13%)Above Sector Average
Economy & Political Environment3 | 4.9%
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 1
General economic conditions and the concentration of our properties in certain states may affect our ability to generate sufficient revenue to maintain our profitability.
The market and economic conditions in our current markets may significantly affect manufactured home occupancy or rental rates. Occupancy and rental rates, in turn, may significantly affect our revenues, and if our communities do not generate revenues sufficient to meet our operating expenses, including debt service and capital expenditures, our cash flow and ability to pay or refinance our debt obligations could be adversely affected. As a result of the geographic concentration of our properties in ten states in the Eastern United States, we are exposed to the risks of downturns in the local economy or other local real estate market conditions which could adversely affect occupancy rates, rental rates, and property values in these markets. Other factors that may affect general economic conditions or local real estate conditions include: - the national and local economic climate, including that of the energy-market dependent Marcellus and Utica Shale regions, may be adversely impacted by, among other factors, potential restrictions on drilling, plant closings, and industry slowdowns;   - local real estate market conditions such as the oversupply of manufactured homesites or a reduction in demand for manufactured homesites in an area;   - the number of repossessed homes in a particular market;   - the lack of an established dealer network;   - the rental market which may limit the extent to which rents may be increased to meet increased expenses without decreasing occupancy rates;   - the safety, convenience and attractiveness of our properties and the neighborhoods where they are located;   - zoning or other regulatory restrictions;   - competition from other available manufactured home communities and alternative forms of housing (such as apartment buildings and single-family homes);   - our ability to provide adequate management, maintenance and insurance;   - a pandemic or other health crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or other highly infectious or contagious diseases;   - increased operating costs, including insurance premiums, real estate taxes and utilities; and   - the enactment of rent control laws or laws taxing the owners of manufactured homes. Our income would also be adversely affected if tenants were unable to pay rent or if sites were unable to be rented on favorable terms. If we were unable to promptly relet or renew the leases for a significant number of sites, or if the rental rates upon such renewal or reletting were significantly lower than expected rates, then our business and results of operations could be adversely affected. In addition, certain expenditures associated with each property (such as real estate taxes and maintenance costs) generally are not reduced when circumstances cause a reduction in income from the property.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 2
Our investments are concentrated in the manufactured housing/residential sector and our business would be adversely affected by an economic downturn in that sector.
Our investments in real estate assets are primarily concentrated in the manufactured housing/residential sector. This concentration may expose us to the risk of economic downturns in this sector to a greater extent than if our business activities included a more significant portion of other sectors of the real estate industry.
Economy & Political Environment - Risk 3
Global and regional economic conditions could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and growth.
Adverse macroeconomic conditions, including inflation, slower growth or recession, tighter credit, higher interest rates and high unemployment could materially adversely impact our business, results of operations, financial condition and growth. In addition, uncertainty about, or a decline in, global or regional economic conditions could have a significant impact on our suppliers.
Natural and Human Disruptions4 | 6.6%
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 1
We face various risks and uncertainties related to public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or other highly infectious or contagious diseases.
Although the World Health Organization declared the public health emergency to be over, we face various risks and uncertainties related to public health crises, such as the global COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted financial markets and significantly impacted worldwide economic activity. A further outbreak of COVID-19 or other future health crisis, as well as mandatory and voluntary actions taken to mitigate the public health impact of any such health crisis may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition. The COVID-19 pandemic and social and governmental responses to the pandemic caused, and may continue to cause, severe economic, market and other disruptions worldwide. Although the COVID-19 pandemic and related societal and government responses did not have a material impact on our business or financial results, the extent to which COVID-19 and other health crises may, in the future, impact our operations cannot be predicted with any degree of confidence, but they could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 2
Future terrorist attacks and military conflicts could have a material adverse effect on general economic conditions, consumer confidence and market liquidity.
Among other things, it is possible that interest rates may be affected by these events. An increase in interest rates may increase our costs of borrowing, leading to a reduction in our earnings. Terrorist acts affecting our properties could also result in significant damages to, or loss of, our properties. Additionally, we may be unable to obtain adequate insurance coverage on acceptable economic terms for losses resulting from acts of terrorism. Our lenders may require that we carry terrorism insurance even if we do not believe this insurance is necessary or cost effective. Should an act of terrorism result in an uninsured loss or a loss in excess of insured limits, we could lose capital invested in a property, as well as the anticipated future revenues from a property, while remaining obligated for any mortgage indebtedness or other financial obligations related to the property. Any loss of these types would adversely affect our financial condition.
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 3
Climate change may adversely affect our business.
To the extent that significant changes in the climate occur in areas where our properties are located, we may experience extreme weather and changes in precipitation and temperature, all of which may result in physical damage to or a decrease in demand for properties located in these areas or affected by these conditions. Should the impact of climate change be material in nature, including significant property damage to or destruction of our properties, or occur for lengthy periods of time, our financial condition or results of operations may be adversely affected. In addition, changes in federal, state and local legislation and regulations based on concerns about climate change could result in increased capital expenditures on our properties (for example, to improve their energy efficiency and/or resistance to inclement weather) without a corresponding increase in revenue, resulting in adverse impacts to our net income.
Natural and Human Disruptions - Risk 4
Some of our properties are subject to potential natural or other disasters.
Certain of our manufactured home communities are located in areas that may be subject to natural disasters, including our manufactured home communities in flood plains, in areas that may be adversely affected by tornados and in coastal regions that may be adversely affected by increases in sea levels or in the frequency or severity of hurricanes, tropical storms or other severe weather conditions. The occurrence of natural disasters may delay redevelopment or development projects, increase investment costs to repair or replace damaged properties, increase future property insurance costs and negatively impact the tenant demand for lease space. To the extent insurance is unavailable to us or is unavailable on acceptable terms, or our insurance is not adequate to cover losses from these events, our financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.
Capital Markets1 | 1.6%
Capital Markets - Risk 1
Disruptions in the financial markets could affect our ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms and have other adverse effects on us and the market price of our capital stock.
Uncertainty in the stock and credit markets may negatively impact our ability to access additional financing at reasonable terms, which may negatively affect our ability to acquire properties and otherwise pursue our investment strategy. A prolonged downturn in the stock or credit markets may cause us to seek alternative sources of potentially less attractive financing, and may require us to adjust our investment strategy accordingly. These types of events in the stock and credit markets may make it more difficult or costly for us to raise capital through the issuance of the Series D Preferred Stock, Common Stock or other equity or debt securities. The potential disruptions in the financial markets may have a material adverse effect on the market value of the Series D Preferred Stock and Common Stock, any other securities we issue, and/or the economy in general. In addition, the national and local economic climate, including that of the energy-market dependent Marcellus and Utica Shale regions, may be adversely impacted by, among other factors, potential restrictions on drilling, plant closings and industry slowdowns, which may have a material adverse effect on the return we receive on our properties and investments, as well as other unknown adverse effects on us.
Production
Total Risks: 7/61 (11%)Below Sector Average
Employment / Personnel1 | 1.6%
Employment / Personnel - Risk 1
We are dependent on key personnel.
Our executive and other senior officers have a significant role in our success. Our ability to retain our management group or to attract suitable replacements should any members of the management group leave is dependent on the competitive nature of the employment market. The loss of services from key members of the management group or a limitation in their availability could adversely affect our financial condition and cash flow. Further, such a loss could be negatively perceived in the capital markets.
Costs6 | 9.8%
Costs - Risk 1
We cannot assure you that we will be able to pay distributions regularly.
Our ability to pay distributions in the future is dependent on our ability to operate profitably and to generate cash from our operations and the operations of our subsidiaries and is subject to limitations under our financing arrangements and Maryland law. Under the Maryland General Corporation Law, a Maryland corporation generally may not make a distribution if, after giving effect to the distribution, the corporation would not be able to pay its debts as the debts became due in the usual course of business, or the corporation's total assets would be less than the sum of its total liabilities plus, unless the charter permits otherwise, the amount that would be needed if the corporation were to be dissolved at the time of the distribution to satisfy the preferential rights upon dissolution of shareholders whose preferential rights on dissolution are superior to those receiving the distribution. Accordingly, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to pay distributions on a regular quarterly basis in the future.
Costs - Risk 2
If our leases are not respected as true leases for federal income tax purposes, we would fail to qualify as a REIT.
To qualify as a REIT, we must, among other things, satisfy two gross income tests, under which specified percentages of our gross income must be certain types of passive income, such as rent. For the rent paid pursuant to our leases to qualify for purposes of the gross income tests, the leases must be respected as true leases for federal income tax purposes and not be treated as service contracts, joint venture or some other type of arrangement. We believe that our leases will be respected as true leases for federal income tax purposes. However, there can be no assurance that the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") will agree with this view. If the leases are not respected as true leases for federal income tax purposes, we would not be able to satisfy either of the two gross income tests applicable to REITs, and we could lose our REIT status.
Costs - Risk 3
Losses in excess of our insurance coverage or uninsured losses could adversely affect our cash flow.
We generally maintain insurance policies related to our business, including casualty, general liability and other policies covering business operations, employees and assets. However, we may be required to bear all losses that are not adequately covered by insurance. In addition, there are certain losses that are not generally insured because it is not economically feasible to insure against them, including losses due to riots, acts of war or other catastrophic events. If an uninsured loss or a loss in excess of insured limits occurs with respect to one or more of our properties, then we could lose the capital we invested in the properties, as well as the anticipated profits and cash flow from the properties and, in the case of debt which is with recourse to us, we would remain obligated for any mortgage debt or other financial obligations related to the properties. Although we believe that our insurance programs are adequate, no assurance can be given that we will not incur losses in excess of our insurance coverage, or that we will be able to obtain insurance in the future at acceptable levels and reasonable cost.
Costs - Risk 4
Costs associated with taxes and regulatory compliance may reduce our revenue.
We are subject to significant regulation that inhibits our activities and may increase our costs. Local zoning and use laws, environmental statutes and other governmental requirements may restrict expansion, rehabilitation and reconstruction activities. These regulations may prevent us from taking advantage of economic opportunities. Legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act may require us to modify our properties at a substantial cost and noncompliance could result in the imposition of fines or an award of damages to private litigants. Future legislation may impose additional requirements. We cannot predict what requirements may be enacted or amended or what costs we will incur to comply with such requirements. Costs resulting from changes in real estate laws, income taxes, service or other taxes may adversely affect our funds from operations and our ability to pay or refinance our debt. Similarly, changes in laws increasing the potential liability for environmental conditions existing on properties or increasing the restrictions on discharges or other conditions may result in significant unanticipated expenditures, which would adversely affect our business and results of operations. Laws and regulations also govern the provision of utility services. Such laws regulate, for example, how and to what extent owners or operators of property can charge renters for provision of utilities. Such laws can also regulate the operations and performance of utility systems and may impose fines and penalties on real property owners or operators who fail to comply with these requirements. The laws and regulations may also require capital investment to maintain compliance.
Costs - Risk 5
We may be unable to sell properties when appropriate because real estate investments are illiquid.
Real estate investments generally cannot be sold quickly and, therefore, will tend to limit our ability to vary our property portfolio promptly in response to changes in economic or other conditions. In addition, the Code limits our ability to sell our properties. The inability to respond promptly to changes in the performance of our property portfolio could adversely affect our financial condition and ability to service our debt and make distributions to our shareholders.
Costs - Risk 6
We may be unable to finance or accurately estimate or anticipate costs and timing associated with expansion activities.
We periodically consider the expansion of existing communities and development of new communities. Our expansion and development activities are subject to risks such as: - we may not be able to obtain financing with favorable terms for community development which may make us unable to proceed with the development;   - we may be unable to obtain, or may face delays in obtaining, necessary zoning, building and other governmental permits and authorizations, which could result in increased costs and delays, and even require us to abandon development of a community entirely if we are unable to obtain such permits or authorizations;   - we may abandon development opportunities that we have already begun to explore and as a result we may not recover expenses already incurred in connection with exploring such development opportunities;   - we may be unable to complete construction and lease-up of a community on schedule resulting in increased debt service expense and construction costs;   - we may incur construction and development costs for a community which exceed our original estimates due to increased materials, labor or other costs, which could make completion of the community uneconomical and we may not be able to increase rents to compensate for the increase in development costs which may impact our profitability;   - we may be unable to secure long-term financing on completion of development resulting in increased debt service and lower profitability; and   - occupancy rates and rents at a newly developed community may fluctuate depending on several factors, including market and economic conditions, which may result in the community not being profitable. If any of the above were to occur, our business and results of operations could be adversely affected.
Ability to Sell
Total Risks: 4/61 (7%)Below Sector Average
Competition2 | 3.3%
Competition - Risk 1
We may be unable to compete with our larger competitors for acquisitions, which may increase prices for communities.
The real estate business is highly competitive. We compete for manufactured home community investments with numerous other real estate entities, such as individuals, corporations, REITs and other enterprises engaged in real estate activities. In many cases, the competing companies may be larger and better financed than we are, making it difficult for us to secure new manufactured home community investments. Competition among private and institutional purchasers of manufactured home community investments has resulted in increases in the purchase prices paid for manufactured home communities and consequently higher fixed costs. To the extent we are unable to effectively compete in the marketplace, our business may be adversely affected.
Competition - Risk 2
Actions by our competitors may decrease or prevent increases in the occupancy and rental rates of our properties which could adversely affect our business.
We compete with other owners and operators of manufactured home community properties, some of which own properties similar to ours in the same submarkets in which our properties are located. The number of competitive manufactured home community properties in a particular area could have a material adverse effect on our ability to attract tenants, lease sites and maintain or increase rents charged at our properties or at any newly acquired properties. In addition, other forms of multifamily residential properties, such as private and federally funded or assisted multifamily housing projects and single-family housing, provide housing alternatives to potential tenants of manufactured home communities. If our competitors offer housing at rental rates below current market rates or below the rental rates we currently charge our tenants, we may lose potential tenants, and we may be pressured to reduce our rental rates below those we currently charge in order to retain tenants when our tenants' leases expire.
Demand1 | 1.6%
Demand - Risk 1
A change in the U.S. government policy with regard to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac could impact our financial condition.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are major sources of financing for the manufactured housing real estate sector. We depend frequently on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to finance growth by purchasing or guaranteeing manufactured housing community loans. A decision by the government to eliminate Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, or reduce their acquisitions or guarantees of our mortgage loans, may adversely affect interest rates, capital availability and our ability to refinance our existing mortgage obligations as they come due and obtain additional long-term financing for the acquisition of additional communities on favorable terms or at all.
Sales & Marketing1 | 1.6%
Sales & Marketing - Risk 1
Our ability to sell manufactured homes may be affected by various factors, which may in turn adversely affect our profitability.
S&F operates in the manufactured home market offering homes for sale to tenants and prospective tenants of our communities. The market for the sale of manufactured homes may be adversely affected by the following factors: - downturns in economic conditions which adversely impact the housing market;   - an oversupply of, or a reduced demand for, manufactured homes;   - the ability of manufactured home manufacturers to adapt to change in the economic climate and the availability of units from these manufacturers;   - the difficulty facing potential purchasers in obtaining affordable financing as a result of heightened lending criteria; and   - an increase or decrease in the rate of manufactured home repossessions which provide aggressively priced competition to new manufactured home sales. Any of the above listed factors could adversely impact our rate of manufactured home sales, which would result in a decrease in profitability.
Tech & Innovation
Total Risks: 2/61 (3%)Below Sector Average
Cyber Security1 | 1.6%
Cyber Security - Risk 1
We face risks relating to cybersecurity attacks which could adversely affect our business, cause loss of confidential information and disrupt operations.
We rely extensively on information technology to process transactions and manage our business. In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store sensitive data, including our business information and that of our tenants, clients, vendors and employees on our network. This data is hosted on internal, as well as external, computer systems. Our external systems are hosted by third-party service providers that may have access to such information in connection with providing necessary information technology and security and other business services to us. This information may include personally identifiable information such as social security numbers, banking information and credit card information. We employ a number of measures to prevent, detect and mitigate potential breaches or disclosure of this confidential information. We have established a Cybersecurity Subcommittee of our Audit Committee to review and provide high level guidance on cybersecurity related issues of importance to the Company. We also maintain cyber risk insurance to provide some coverage for certain risks arising out of data and network breaches. While we continue to improve our cybersecurity and take measures to protect our business, we and our third-party service providers may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers (including through malware, ransomware, computer viruses, and email phishing schemes) or breached due to employee error, malfeasance, fire, flood or other physical event, or other disruptions. Any such breach or disruption could compromise the confidential information of our employees, customers and vendors to the extent such information exists on our systems or on the systems of third-party providers. Such an incident could result in potential liability or a loss of confidence and legal claims or proceedings; damage our reputation, competitiveness, stock price and long-term value; increase remediation, cybersecurity protection and insurance premium costs; disrupt and affect our business operations; or have material adverse effects on our business.
Technology1 | 1.6%
Technology - Risk 1
We are dependent on continuous access to the Internet to use our cloud-based applications.
Damage or failure to our information technology systems, including as a result of any of the reasons described above, could adversely affect our results of operations as we may incur significant costs or data loss. We continually assess new and enhanced information technology solutions to manage risk of system failure or interruption.
See a full breakdown of risk according to category and subcategory. The list starts with the category with the most risk. Click on subcategories to read relevant extracts from the most recent report.

FAQ

What are “Risk Factors”?
Risk factors are any situations or occurrences that could make investing in a company risky.
    The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires that publicly traded companies disclose their most significant risk factors. This is so that potential investors can consider any risks before they make an investment.
      They also offer companies protection, as a company can use risk factors as liability protection. This could happen if a company underperforms and investors take legal action as a result.
        It is worth noting that smaller companies, that is those with a public float of under $75 million on the last business day, do not have to include risk factors in their 10-K and 10-Q forms, although some may choose to do so.
          How do companies disclose their risk factors?
          Publicly traded companies initially disclose their risk factors to the SEC through their S-1 filings as part of the IPO process.
            Additionally, companies must provide a complete list of risk factors in their Annual Reports (Form 10-K) or (Form 20-F) for “foreign private issuers”.
              Quarterly Reports also include a section on risk factors (Form 10-Q) where companies are only required to update any changes since the previous report.
                According to the SEC, risk factors should be reported concisely, logically and in “plain English” so investors can understand them.
                  How can I use TipRanks risk factors in my stock research?
                  Use the Risk Factors tab to get data about the risk factors of any company in which you are considering investing.
                    You can easily see the most significant risks a company is facing. Additionally, you can find out which risk factors a company has added, removed or adjusted since its previous disclosure. You can also see how a company’s risk factors compare to others in its sector.
                      Without reading company reports or participating in conference calls, you would most likely not have access to this sort of information, which is usually not included in press releases or other public announcements.
                        A simplified analysis of risk factors is unique to TipRanks.
                          What are all the risk factor categories?
                          TipRanks has identified 6 major categories of risk factors and a number of subcategories for each. You can see how these categories are broken down in the list below.
                          1. Financial & Corporate
                          • Accounting & Financial Operations - risks related to accounting loss, value of intangible assets, financial statements, value of intangible assets, financial reporting, estimates, guidance, company profitability, dividends, fluctuating results.
                          • Share Price & Shareholder Rights – risks related to things that impact share prices and the rights of shareholders, including analyst ratings, major shareholder activity, trade volatility, liquidity of shares, anti-takeover provisions, international listing, dual listing.
                          • Debt & Financing – risks related to debt, funding, financing and interest rates, financial investments.
                          • Corporate Activity and Growth – risks related to restructuring, M&As, joint ventures, execution of corporate strategy, strategic alliances.
                          2. Legal & Regulatory
                          • Litigation and Legal Liabilities – risks related to litigation/ lawsuits against the company.
                          • Regulation – risks related to compliance, GDPR, and new legislation.
                          • Environmental / Social – risks related to environmental regulation and to data privacy.
                          • Taxation & Government Incentives – risks related to taxation and changes in government incentives.
                          3. Production
                          • Costs – risks related to costs of production including commodity prices, future contracts, inventory.
                          • Supply Chain – risks related to the company’s suppliers.
                          • Manufacturing – risks related to the company’s manufacturing process including product quality and product recalls.
                          • Human Capital – risks related to recruitment, training and retention of key employees, employee relationships & unions labor disputes, pension, and post retirement benefits, medical, health and welfare benefits, employee misconduct, employee litigation.
                          4. Technology & Innovation
                          • Innovation / R&D – risks related to innovation and new product development.
                          • Technology – risks related to the company’s reliance on technology.
                          • Cyber Security – risks related to securing the company’s digital assets and from cyber attacks.
                          • Trade Secrets & Patents – risks related to the company’s ability to protect its intellectual property and to infringement claims against the company as well as piracy and unlicensed copying.
                          5. Ability to Sell
                          • Demand – risks related to the demand of the company’s goods and services including seasonality, reliance on key customers.
                          • Competition – risks related to the company’s competition including substitutes.
                          • Sales & Marketing – risks related to sales, marketing, and distribution channels, pricing, and market penetration.
                          • Brand & Reputation – risks related to the company’s brand and reputation.
                          6. Macro & Political
                          • Economy & Political Environment – risks related to changes in economic and political conditions.
                          • Natural and Human Disruptions – risks related to catastrophes, floods, storms, terror, earthquakes, coronavirus pandemic/COVID-19.
                          • International Operations – risks related to the global nature of the company.
                          • Capital Markets – risks related to exchange rates and trade, cryptocurrency.
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