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Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
     
þ   QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarter ended September 30, 2011
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 1-8122
GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter
     
Delaware   94-1424307
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (IRS Employer
Identification No.)
1551 North Tustin Avenue, Suite 300, Santa Ana, California 92705
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(714) 667-8252
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
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 þ 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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes o 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 o   Non-accelerated filer þ   Smaller reporting company o
        (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No þ
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock as of November 9, 2011 was 70,086,570 shares.
 
 

 

 


 

GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
         
 
       
     
 
       
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 Exhibit 31.1
 Exhibit 31.2
 Exhibit 32
 EX-101 INSTANCE DOCUMENT
 EX-101 SCHEMA DOCUMENT
 EX-101 CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
 EX-101 LABELS LINKBASE DOCUMENT
 EX-101 PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
 EX-101 DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT

 

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Part I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.  
Financial Statements.
GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
                 
    September 30,     December 31,  
    2011     2010  
    (Unaudited)          
ASSETS
 
Current assets:
               
Cash and cash equivalents (including $144 and $307 from VIEs, respectively)
  $ 3,781     $ 30,919  
Restricted cash
    3,530       3,836  
Investment in marketable equity securities
    815       1,948  
Accounts receivable from related parties — net
    4,010       3,460  
Service fees receivable — net (including $553 and $915 from VIEs, respectively)
    28,798       31,048  
Professional service contracts — net
    2,751       3,468  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    10,359       11,842  
Assets held for sale (including $14,943 from VIEs and $24,992 from related parties)
          100,314  
 
           
Total current assets
    54,044       186,835  
Professional service contracts — net
    3,304       5,750  
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements — net
    11,050       10,110  
Identified intangible assets — net
    77,791       80,698  
Other assets — net (including $11 and $7 from VIEs, respectively)
    2,067       2,030  
Goodwill
    1,521       1,521  
 
           
Total assets
  $ 149,777     $ 286,944  
 
           
LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNERS’ DEFICIT  
Current liabilities:
               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses (including $735 and $916 from VIEs, respectively)
  $ 63,793     $ 69,470  
Credit facility (includes accrued interest)
    18,511        
Notes payable and capital lease obligations
    5,391       1,041  
Liabilities held for sale (including $822 from VIEs and $2,178 from related parties)
          122,478  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    87,695       192,989  
Long-term liabilities:
               
Convertible notes
    30,369       30,133  
Notes payable and capital lease obligations
    409       566  
Other long-term liabilities
    9,035       7,065  
Deferred tax liabilities
    25,234       25,070  
 
           
Total liabilities
    152,742       255,823  
Commitment and contingencies (Note 11)
               
Preferred stock: 12% cumulative participating perpetual convertible; $0.01 par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010; 965,700 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010
    98,892       90,080  
Shareowners’ deficit:
               
Preferred stock: $0.01 par value; 19,000,000 shares authorized as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010; no shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010
           
Common stock: $0.01 par value; 200,000,000 shares authorized as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010; 69,940,830 and 70,076,451 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively
    698       701  
Additional paid-in capital
    404,065       409,943  
Accumulated deficit
    (506,513 )     (478,881 )
Other comprehensive (loss) income
    (107 )     148  
 
           
Total Grubb & Ellis Company shareowners’ deficit
    (101,857 )     (68,089 )
 
           
Noncontrolling interests (including $9,130 from VIEs as of December 31, 2010)
          9,130  
 
           
Total deficit
    (101,857 )     (58,959 )
 
           
Total liabilities and shareowners’ deficit
  $ 149,777     $ 286,944  
 
           
The abbreviation VIEs above means Variable Interest Entities.
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY
UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
    2011     2010     2011     2010  
REVENUE
                               
Management services
  $ 57,110     $ 65,351     $ 174,068     $ 207,909  
Transaction services
    68,322       59,907       191,588       156,824  
Investment management
    3,260       3,763       13,249       7,656  
 
                       
Total revenue
    128,692       129,021       378,905       372,389  
 
                       
OPERATING EXPENSE
                               
Compensation costs
    121,362       120,796       352,003       358,532  
General and administrative
    15,976       16,129       52,456       47,870  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    736       627       4,543       2,429  
Depreciation and amortization
    2,026       1,660       6,088       4,974  
Interest
    2,372       758       4,060       1,262  
 
                       
Total operating expense
    142,472       139,970       419,150       415,067  
 
                       
OPERATING LOSS
    (13,780 )     (10,949 )     (40,245 )     (42,678 )
 
                       
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
                               
Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated entities
          (204 )     71       (587 )
Interest income
    43       12       109       122  
Other income
          454             454  
 
                       
Total other income (expense)
    43       262       180       (11 )
 
                       
Loss from continuing operations before income tax benefit (provision)
    (13,737 )     (10,687 )     (40,065 )     (42,689 )
Income tax benefit (provision)
    4,138       (180 )     4,161       (398 )
 
                       
Loss from continuing operations
    (9,599 )     (10,867 )     (35,904 )     (43,087 )
 
                       
Discontinued operations
                               
Loss from discontinued operations — net of taxes
    (980 )     (4,449 )     (8,076 )     (15,476 )
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations — net of taxes
    15,371             15,371        
 
                       
Total income (loss) from discontinued operations
    14,391       (4,449 )     7,295       (15,476 )
 
                       
NET INCOME (LOSS)
    4,792       (15,316 )     (28,609 )     (58,563 )
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (198 )     (511 )     (977 )     (2,518 )
 
                       
INCOME AVAILABLE (LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE) TO GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY
    4,990       (14,805 )     (27,632 )     (56,045 )
Preferred stock dividends
    (3,018 )     (2,897 )     (8,812 )     (8,691 )
Income allocated to participating shareowners
    (1,023 )                  
 
                       
INCOME AVAILABLE (LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE) TO GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY COMMON SHAREOWNERS
  $ 949     $ (17,702 )   $ (36,444 )   $ (64,736 )
 
                       
Basic loss per share
                               
Loss from continuing operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ (0.19 )   $ (0.20 )   $ (0.66 )   $ (0.76 )
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
    0.20       (0.07 )     0.11       (0.24 )
 
                       
Income (loss) per share attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ 0.01     $ (0.27 )   $ (0.55 )   $ (1.00 )
 
                       
Diluted loss per share
                               
Loss from continuing operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ (0.19 )   $ (0.20 )   $ (0.66 )   $ (0.76 )
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
    0.20       (0.07 )     0.11       (0.24 )
 
                       
Income (loss) per share attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ 0.01     $ (0.27 )   $ (0.55 )   $ (1.00 )
 
                       
Basic weighted average shares outstanding
    66,059       64,860       65,886       64,624  
 
                       
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding
    66,784       64,860       65,886       64,624  
 
                       
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
                 
    Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,  
    2011     2010  
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
               
Net loss
  $ (28,609 )   $ (58,563 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
               
Gain on sale of subsidiaries
    (22,795 )      
Equity in (earnings) losses of unconsolidated entities
    (380 )     1,085  
Depreciation and amortization (including amortization of signing bonuses)
    13,522       15,065  
(Recovery) impairment of real estate
    (9,858 )     2,573  
Impairment of intangible assets
    480       1,977  
Share-based compensation
    3,153       7,427  
Allowance for uncollectible accounts
    6,751       4,944  
Other
    2,950       982  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Accounts receivable from related parties
    (3,098 )     4,084  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    (1,091 )     (996 )
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    (4,056 )     (7,262 )
Other liabilities
    114       (6,443 )
Restricted cash
    760        
 
           
Net cash used in operating activities
    (42,157 )     (35,127 )
 
           
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
               
Cash effect from deconsolidation of VIE
          (184 )
Cash effect from sale and deconsolidation of subsidiaries
    (1,995 )      
Purchases of property and equipment
    (4,241 )     (2,468 )
Tenant improvements and capital expenditures
    (515 )     (2,098 )
Sales (purchases) of marketable equity securities, net
    944       (873 )
Notes and advances to related parties
    (390 )     (649 )
Proceeds from repayment of notes and advances to related parties
    792       4,872  
Proceeds from sale of note receivable
    6,126        
Investments in unconsolidated entities, net
    (278 )     (396 )
Sale of tenant-in-common interest in unconsolidated entities
          391  
Payments of real estate deposits and pre-acquisition costs, net
          (430 )
Acquisition of business
    (100 )     (2,100 )
Restricted cash
    1,291       3,039  
 
           
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    1,634       (896 )
 
           
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
               
Borrowing on credit facility
    18,000        
Repayments of notes payable and capital lease obligations, net
    (817 )     (733 )
Other financing costs
    (1,681 )     (520 )
Proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes, net
          29,925  
Dividends paid to preferred stockholders
          (8,691 )
Contributions from noncontrolling interests
    77       389  
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
    (1,194 )     (3,891 )
Restricted cash
    (1,000 )      
 
           
Net cash provided by financing activities
    13,385       16,479  
 
           
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
    (27,138 )     (19,544 )
Cash and cash equivalents — Beginning of period
    30,919       39,101  
 
           
Cash and cash equivalents — End of period
  $ 3,781     $ 19,557  
 
           
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NONCASH ACTIVITIES
               
Accrued preferred stock dividends
  $ 8,812     $  
 
           
Issuance of warrants
  $ 741     $  
 
           
Deconsolidation of assets related to Daymark and Alesco sales
  $ 91,311     $  
 
           
Deconsolidation of liabilities related to Daymark and Alesco sales
  $ 102,608     $  
 
           
Deconsolidation of noncontrolling interests related to Daymark and Alesco sales
  $ 7,008     $  
 
           
Increase in notes payable related to Daymark sale
  $ 5,000     $  
 
           
Consolidation of assets held by VIEs
  $     $ 15,917  
 
           
Consolidation of liabilities held by VIEs
  $     $ 699  
 
           
Consolidation of noncontrolling interests held by VIEs
  $     $ 15,218  
 
           
Deconsolidation of assets held by VIEs
  $     $ 338  
 
           
Deconsolidation of liabilities held by VIEs
  $     $ 411  
 
           
Deconsolidation of noncontrolling interests held by VIEs
  $     $ 73  
 
           
Consolidation of assets related to sponsored mutual fund
  $     $ 823  
 
           
Consolidation of noncontrolling interests related to sponsored mutual fund
  $     $ 823  
 
           
Acquisition of business
  $     $ 659  
 
           
The abbreviation VIEs above means Variable Interest Entities.
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

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GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Overview
Grubb & Ellis Company and its consolidated subsidiaries are referred to herein as “the Company,” “Grubb & Ellis,” “we,” “us,” and “our.” Grubb & Ellis, a Delaware corporation founded over 50 years ago, is a commercial real estate services and investment company. With approximately 5,000 professionals in more than 100 company-owned and affiliate offices throughout the United States (“U.S.”), our professionals draw from a platform of real estate services, practice groups and investment products to deliver comprehensive, integrated solutions to real estate owners, tenants, investors, lenders and corporate occupiers. Our range of services includes tenant representation, property and agency leasing, commercial property and corporate facilities management, property sales, appraisal and valuation and commercial mortgage brokerage and investment management. Our transaction, management, consulting and investment services are supported by proprietary market research and extensive local expertise. Through our investment management business, we are a sponsor of real estate investment programs, including public non-traded real estate investment trusts (“REITs”).
Recent Strategic and Financing Initiatives
Credit Facility
On March 21, 2011, we announced that we had retained JMP Securities LLC as an advisor to explore strategic alternatives for the Company, including a potential merger or sale transaction. On March 30, 2011, we entered into a commitment letter and exclusivity agreement with Colony Capital Acquisitions, LLC, pursuant to which Colony Capital Acquisitions, LLC and one or more of its affiliates (collectively, “Colony”) agreed to provide an $18.0 million senior secured multiple draw term loan credit facility (“Credit Facility”).
On October 16, 2011, we entered into a second amendment (“Credit Facility Amendment No. 2”) increasing from $18.0 million to $28.0 million the size of our Credit Facility. Pursuant to the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, C-III Investments LLC (“C-III”) agreed to become a lender under the Credit Facility and to provide an additional $10.0 million term loan (the “Incremental Term Loan”) under the existing terms and conditions of the Credit Facility, as amended by Credit Facility Amendment No. 2. In furtherance of the transactions contemplated by the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, C-III acquired $4.0 million of Colony’s interest in the Credit Facility, and an agreed upon share of the Existing Warrants.
In consideration of C-III providing the Incremental Term Loan and Colony consenting to the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, we entered into an exclusivity agreement (the “Exclusivity Agreement”) with Colony and C-III pursuant to which Colony and C-III have the exclusive right for a period of thirty days commencing on October 16, 2011, and subject to two consecutive thirty day extensions under certain circumstances, to pursue a strategic transaction with respect to the Company. In the event that Colony and C-III are diligently pursuing a strategic transaction with us at the end of each of the initial thirty day period (November 15, 2011) and the first thirty day extension (December 15, 2011), Colony and C-III shall have the right to extend the exclusivity period for an additional thirty days. We have been advised by representatives of C-III that they will be extending the exclusivity period for this initial 30 day period until at least December 15, 2011.
Notwithstanding such exclusivity, in the event we receive an unsolicited qualified offer from a third party during the exclusivity period, at any time subsequent to the sixtieth day of exclusivity we shall have the right to request that Colony and C-III match such unsolicited qualified offer within three business days, and if Colony and C-III fail to match such unsolicited qualified offer within three business days and the third party purchases all of the indebtedness and other outstanding obligations of the lenders under the amended Credit Facility, the Exclusivity Agreement shall automatically terminate and we may negotiate and enter into a transaction with such third party. We are also obligated to pay the reasonable costs to effect the transactions contemplated by the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, up to $0.2 million, and the reasonable costs of C-III under the Exclusivity Agreement, up to $1.0 million. See Note 6 for further information on the Credit Facility.
Sale of Daymark
On February 10, 2011, we announced the creation of Daymark Realty Advisors, Inc. (“Daymark”), a wholly owned and separately managed subsidiary that was responsible for the management of our tenant-in-common portfolio. Subsequent thereto we announced that we had retained FBR Capital Markets & Co. to explore strategic alternatives with respect to Daymark and its portfolio, which includes over 8,700 multi-family units and approximately 30.0 million square feet of real estate.

 

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On August 10, 2011, we entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) by and between us and IUC-SOV, LLC (the “Purchaser”), an entity affiliated with Sovereign Capital Management and Infinity Real Estate. Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, we sold to Purchaser all of the shares of common stock of Daymark. The closing (the “Closing”) of the transactions contemplated by the Purchase Agreement (the “Transactions”) was completed on August 10, 2011.
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, we sold to Purchaser all of the outstanding shares of Daymark in exchange for (1) a cash payment of $0.5 million (the “Estimated Closing Cash Payment”) from Purchaser and (2) the assumption by Purchaser of $10.7 million of the net intercompany balance payable from us to NNN Realty Advisors, Inc. (“NNNRA”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Daymark.
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, immediately after the completion of the sale of the Daymark shares (and after NNNRA had become a wholly owned subsidiary of the Purchaser), the Company (1) paid NNNRA a $0.5 million cash payment and (2) issued to NNNRA a $5.0 million promissory note (the “Promissory Note”) in full satisfaction of the remaining portion of the Company’s net intercompany balance payable to NNNRA that was not assumed by Purchaser.
We recorded a gain on sale, net of taxes of $8.3 million, of approximately $17.2 million related to the disposition of Daymark in the third quarter of 2011, after recording the $5.0 million Promissory Note, writing off all of the assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests associated with Daymark and recognizing the costs related to such transaction.
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, we have agreed to indemnify, subject to various limitations, Purchaser and its affiliates against any losses incurred or suffered by them as a result of (1) the breach of any representation or warranty made by us in the Purchase Agreement (subject to applicable survival limitations); (2) the breach of any covenant or agreement made by us in the Agreement; (3) any claim for brokerage or finder’s fees payable by Daymark or any of its subsidiaries in connection with the Transactions; (4) any liabilities or claims to the extent arising from the actions or omissions of (A) the Seller and its subsidiaries (other than Daymark and its subsidiaries) and (B) Daymark and its subsidiaries prior to the Closing, in each case, related to the office building at 7551 Metro Center Drive in Austin Texas (“Met Center 10”) (provided that indemnification for Met Center 10 (x) shall not cover any legal fees and expenses that were paid prior to Closing and (y) shall not cover any legal fees and expenses that have not been paid prior to the Closing except to the extent (and only to the extent) that they exceed $0.65 million); (5) certain liabilities under various employment agreements, plans and policies; or (6) fraud by Seller or any of its subsidiaries (other than Daymark or any of its subsidiaries).
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, the Purchaser has agreed to indemnify, subject to limitations, us and our affiliates against any losses incurred or suffered by them as a result of (1) the breach of any representation or warranty made by Purchaser in the Purchase Agreement (subject to applicable survival limitations); (2) the breach of any covenant or agreement made by Purchaser in the Purchase Agreement; (3) any liabilities of, obligations of or claims against us or any of our subsidiaries related to or arising from the business or operations of Daymark or any of its subsidiaries (whether relating to matters that occurred, arose or were asserted prior to the Closing or relating to matters that occur, arise or are asserted after the Closing), including existing and future litigation and claims, non-recourse carve-out guarantees and other guaranty obligations of us and our subsidiaries (provided that Purchaser shall not be obligated to indemnify Seller or its affiliates for losses of Seller or its affiliates that are the result of (x) certain litigation matters or (y) fraud by Seller); (4) the first $0.65 million of legal fees and expenses relating to Met Center 10 that have not been paid prior to the Closing; and (5) fraud by Purchaser or any of its subsidiaries. Among other indemnification limitations, the liability of Purchaser for indemnifying us and our affiliates for liabilities, obligations or claims related to or arising from the business or operations of Daymark or its subsidiaries as described in clause (3) above (if related solely to any fact, event or circumstances prior to the Closing) shall not exceed $7.5 million in the aggregate.
The $5.0 million principal amount of the Promissory Note issued by us to NNNRA becomes due and payable on August 10, 2016 (the “Maturity Date”). Interest accrues on the unpaid principal of the Promissory Note at a rate equal to 7.95% per annum. Accrued and unpaid interest on the Promissory Note is payable on the last day of each calendar quarter (commencing on September 30, 2011) and on the Maturity Date. We may prepay all or any portion of the Promissory Note at any time without premium or penalty.
Upon a change of control of the Company or certain Company recapitalization events, we will be obligated to prepay, within 10 business days following the date of such event, an amount equal to the sum of (A) an amount of principal (the “Mandatory Principal Prepayment Amount”) equal to the lesser of (i) $3.0 million and (ii) the then-outstanding principal amount of the Promissory Note plus (B) all accrued and unpaid interest on the Mandatory Principal Prepayment Amount.

 

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Events of default under the Promissory Note include (i) a default by us in the payment of any interest or principal on the Promissory Note when due and such default continues for a period of 10 days after written notice from the holder and (ii) we become subject to any final and non-appealable writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process that would cause a material adverse effect on the financial condition of us and our subsidiaries, taken as a whole. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, the holder of the Promissory Note may declare and demand the Promissory Note immediately due and payable. As a result of such material adverse change clause, we have classified the entire $5.0 million Promissory Note as a current liability.
In connection with the closing of the Transactions, we, Daymark and each of Daymark’s subsidiaries entered into an Intercompany Balance Settlement and Release Agreement dated August 10, 2011 (the “IBSRA”). Pursuant to the IBSRA, Daymark and its subsidiaries released us from any and all claims, obligations, contracts, agreements, debts and liabilities that Daymark and its subsidiaries now have, have ever had or may in the future have against us arising at the time of or prior to the Closing or on account of or arising out of any matter, fact or event occurring at the time of or prior to the Closing, including (1) all rights and obligations under that certain Services Agreement dated as of January 1, 2011 by and among us, Daymark and other parties thereto (the “Services Agreement”), (2) all other contracts and arrangements between Daymark or any of its subsidiaries and us, (3) all intercompany payables and any other financial obligations or amounts owed to Daymark or any of its subsidiaries by us and (4) rights to indemnification or reimbursement from us, subject to various exceptions. Daymark and its subsidiaries also waived rights to coverage under D&O insurance policies maintained by us.
Pursuant to the IBSRA, we released Daymark and each of its subsidiaries from any and all claims, obligations, contracts, agreements, debts and liabilities that we now have, have ever had or may in the future have against Daymark or any of its subsidiaries arising at the time of or prior to the Closing or on account of or arising out of any matter, fact or event occurring at the time of or prior to the Closing, including (1) all rights and obligations under the Services Agreement, (2) all other contracts and arrangements between us and Daymark or any of its subsidiaries, (3) all intercompany payables and any other financial obligations or amounts owed to us by Daymark or any of its subsidiaries and (4) rights to indemnification or reimbursement from Daymark or any of its subsidiaries, subject to various exceptions.
Sale of Alesco
On June 1, 2011, we entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of substantially all of the assets of our real estate investment fund business, Alesco Global Advisors (“Alesco”), to Lazard Asset Management LLC. Closing of the transaction occurred on September 23, 2011. We recognized a loss on the sale of Alesco, net of taxes, of approximately $1.8 million in the third quarter of 2011 after writing off the assets, liabilities and deficit balance in noncontrolling interests associated with Alesco and recognizing the costs related to such transaction.
Termination of Agreements with Grubb & Ellis Healthcare REIT II
On November 7, 2011, Grubb & Ellis Healthcare REIT II (“Healthcare REIT II”), a separate legal entity with an independent board of directors sponsored by us, terminated its advisory and dealer-manager relationships (collectively the “REIT agreements’) with various subsidiaries of Grubb & Ellis Company. The termination is effective immediately subject to a 60-day transition period. The termination of the REIT agreements could have a material adverse effect on our business, future results of operations and financial condition.
We have received revenues totaling approximately $13.2 million from Healthcare REIT II for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. Based on the projected levels of capital we estimate will be raised for Healthcare REIT during the 60-day transition period and the pipeline of property acquisitions expected to close, we currently estimate that we will be entitled to receive significant acquisition fees during the fourth quarter of 2011 and first quarter of 2012. In addition, we expect to receive property and asset management fees through the end of the transition period. The amount of capital to be raised and the timing and amount of property acquisitions that close are not within our control and uncertain, and as such the timing of cash flows may materially differ from these estimates.
As of September 30, 2011, we have incurred organizational and offering expenses of approximately $2.8 million in excess of 1.0% of the gross proceeds of the Healthcare REIT II offering which are included in “Accounts Receivable from Related Parties — net” on our consolidated balance sheet. While we currently expect to recover all unpaid reimbursements of expenses from Healthcare REIT II, such recovery may be subject to certain limitations and therefore the timing and ultimate collection of all such amounts are uncertain.

 

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Should Healthcare REIT II fail to pay amounts that become due to us under the REIT Agreements, it could have a material adverse affect on our near term cash flows, results of operations and financial condition and create significant risk of our ability to continue as a going concern.
In addition, simultaneously with the termination of the REIT agreements, Jeffrey T. Hanson, our Executive Vice President, and the President and Chief Investment Officer of Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, resigned effective November 7, 2011, from all of his executive positions with us, as well as from all officer and director positions he holds with any of our subsidiaries.
Basis of Presentation
Our accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business for the twelve month period following the date of these financial statements.
On March 21, 2011, the Company announced that it had engaged an external advisor to explore strategic alternatives, including the potential sale or merger of the Company. The board of directors also determined, as permitted, not to declare the March 31, June 30 or September 30, 2011 quarterly dividends to holders of its 12% Cumulative Participating Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock.
On April 15, 2011, we entered into an $18.0 million credit facility (as amended on October 16, 2011) with ColFin GNE Loan Funding, LLC, an affiliate of Colony Capital LLC (“Colony”), as further described in Commitments, Contingencies and Other Contractual Obligations below. The Colony credit facility, which addressed the Company’s liquidity needs resulting from operating losses relating to the seasonal nature of the real estate services businesses, investments made in growth initiatives and increased legal expenses related to its Daymark subsidiary, matures on March 1, 2012. On October 16, 2011, we amended the Credit Facility, to increase the size from $18.0 million to $28.0 million, which provided incremental capital to us to allow us to complete a strategic process.
We may seek additional financing prior to the completion of our review of strategic alternatives. It is anticipated that any strategic alternative would include provisions to extend, retire or refinance the Colony credit facility at or prior to maturity. If the Company is unable to extend, retire or refinance the Colony credit facility prior to maturity, it could create substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for the twelve month period following the date of these financial statements. We believe that upon completion of our strategic alternative process we will have sufficient liquidity to operate in the normal course over the next twelve month period.
The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and those of our wholly owned and majority-owned controlled subsidiaries, variable interest entities (“VIEs”) in which we are the primary beneficiary, and partnerships/limited liability companies (“LLCs”) in which we are the managing member or general partner and the other partners/members lack substantive rights. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
Pursuant to the requirements of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 810, Consolidation, (“Consolidation Topic”), we consolidate entities that are VIEs when we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE. We are deemed to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE if we have a significant variable interest in the VIE that provides us with a controlling financial interest in the VIE. Our variable interest provides us with a controlling financial interest if we have both (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. There is subjectivity around the determination of power and which activities of the VIE most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance. As reconsideration events occur, we will reconsider our determination of whether an entity is a VIE and who the primary beneficiary is to determine if there is a change in the original determinations and will report such changes on a quarterly basis. In addition, we will continuously evaluate our VIE’s primary beneficiary as facts and circumstances change to determine if such changes warrant a change in an enterprise’s status as primary beneficiary of the VIEs. For entities in which (i) we are not deemed to be the primary beneficiary, (ii) our ownership is 50.0% or less and (iii) we have the ability to exercise significant influence, we use the equity method of accounting (i.e. at cost, increased or decreased by our share of earnings or losses, plus contributions less distributions). We also use the equity method of accounting for jointly controlled tenant-in-common interests.

 

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Interim Unaudited Financial Data
Our accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared by us in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) in conjunction with the rules and regulations of the SEC. Certain information and footnote disclosures required for annual financial statements have been condensed or excluded pursuant to SEC rules and regulations. Accordingly, our accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Our accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, which are, in our view, of a normal recurring nature and necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim period. Interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year; such full year results may be less favorable.
In preparing our accompanying consolidated financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events through the financial statement issuance date.
We believe that although the disclosures contained herein are adequate to prevent the information presented from being misleading, our accompanying consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in our 2010 Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC on March 31, 2011.
Use of Estimates
The financial statements have been prepared in conformity with GAAP, which require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities (including disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities) as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year and prior period amounts in order to conform to the current period presentation. These reclassifications have no effect on reported net loss.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash is comprised primarily of cash reserve accounts held for the benefit of various insurance providers, lessors and lenders. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the restricted cash balance was $3.5 million and $3.8 million, respectively.
Fair Value Measurements
ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, (“Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Topic”) defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. The Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Topic applies to reported balances that are required or permitted to be measured at fair value under existing accounting pronouncements; accordingly, the standard does not require any new fair value measurements of reported balances.
The Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Topic emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement. Therefore, a fair value measurement should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. As a basis for considering market participant assumptions in fair value measurements, the Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Topic establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between market participant assumptions based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity (observable inputs that are classified within Levels 1 and 2 of the hierarchy) and the reporting entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions (unobservable inputs classified within Level 3 of the hierarchy).
Level 1 inputs are the highest priority and are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs reflect other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable directly or through corroboration with observable market data. Level 2 inputs may include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, as well as inputs that are observable for the asset or liability (other than quoted prices), such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs, due to little or no market activity for the asset or liability, such as internally-developed valuation models. If quoted market prices or inputs are not available, fair value measurements are based upon valuation models that utilize current market or independently sourced market inputs, such as interest rates, option volatilities, credit spreads and market capitalization rates. Items valued using such internally-generated valuation techniques are classified according to

 

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the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. As a result, the asset or liability could be classified in either Level 2 or 3 even though there may be some significant inputs that are readily observable. In instances where the determination of the fair value measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.
We generally use a discounted cash flow model to estimate the fair value of our consolidated real estate investments, unless better market comparable data is available. Management uses its best estimate in determining the key assumptions, including the expected holding period, future occupancy levels, capitalization rates, discount rates, rental rates, lease-up periods and capital expenditure requirements. The estimated fair value is further adjusted for anticipated selling expenses. Generally, if a property is under contract, the contract price adjusted for selling expenses is used to estimate the fair value of the property.
The following table presents financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on either a recurring or nonrecurring basis for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 (including amounts classified in discontinued operations):
                                         
                                    Total  
                                    Impairment  
                                    Recoveries  
                                    (Losses)  
                                    Incurred  
                                    During the  
                                    Nine Months  
    September 30,                             Ended September 30,  
(In thousands)   2011     Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     2011  
Investments in marketable equity securities
  $ 815     $ 815     $     $     $  
Life insurance contracts
  $ 337     $     $ 337     $     $  
Contingent liability — TIC program exchange
  $     $     $     $     $ 9,024  
Warrant derivative liability
  $ (358 )   $     $ (358 )   $     $  
The following table presents financial and nonfinancial assets measured at fair value on either a recurring or nonrecurring basis for the year ended December 31, 2010:
                                         
                                    Total  
                                    Impairment  
                                    Losses  
                                    Incurred  
                                    During the  
                                    Year Ended  
    December 31,                             December 31,  
(In thousands)   2010     Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     2010  
Investments in marketable equity securities
  $ 1,948     $ 1,948     $     $     $  
Assets under management
  $ 901     $ 901     $     $     $  
Property held for sale
  $ 45,572     $     $     $ 45,572     $  
Investments in unconsolidated entities
  $ 5,178     $     $     $ 5,178     $ (646 )
Life insurance contracts
  $ 1,062     $     $ 1,062     $     $  
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments, (“Financial Instruments Topic”) requires disclosure of fair value of financial instruments, whether or not recognized on the face of the balance sheet, for which it is practical to estimate that value. The Financial Instruments Topic defines fair value as the quoted market prices for those instruments that are actively traded in financial markets. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are estimated using present value or other valuation techniques. The fair value estimates are made at the end of the reporting period based on unobservable assumptions categorized in Level 3 of the hierarchy, including available market information and judgments about the financial instrument, such as estimates of timing and amount of expected future cash flows. Such estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time our entire holdings of a particular financial instrument, nor do they consider the tax impact of the realization of unrealized gains or losses. In many cases, the fair value estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets, nor can the disclosed value be realized in immediate settlement of the instrument.

 

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The fair value of our mortgage notes, notes payable, senior notes, convertible notes and preferred stock is estimated using borrowing rates available to us for debt instruments with similar terms and maturities. The amounts recorded for accounts receivable, notes receivable, advances, accounts payable and accrued liabilities and capital lease obligations approximate fair value due to their short-term nature.
The following table presents the fair value and carrying value of our mortgage notes, notes payable, NNN senior notes, credit facility, convertible notes and preferred stock as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
                                 
    September 30, 2011     December 31, 2010  
(In thousands)   Fair Value     Carrying Value     Fair Value     Carrying Value  
Mortgage notes — held for sale
  $     $     $ 59,624     $ 70,000  
Notes payable
  $ 4,421     $ 5,645     $ 747     $ 884  
NNN senior notes — held for sale
  $     $     $ 16,054     $ 16,277  
Credit facility(1)
  $ 18,881     $ 18,511     $     $  
Convertible notes(2)
  $ 23,783     $ 30,369     $ 28,832     $ 30,133  
Preferred stock(3)
  $ 27,643     $ 98,892     $ 91,828     $ 90,080  
(1)  
Carrying value includes an unamortized debt discount of $0.4 million and accrued interest of $0.9 million as of September 30, 2011.
 
(2)  
Carrying value includes an unamortized debt discount of $1.1 million and $1.4 million as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively.
 
(3)  
Carrying value includes cumulative unpaid dividends of $8.8 million as of September 30, 2011.
Litigation
We routinely assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes related to legal matters, as well as ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of the reserves required, if any, for these contingencies is made after analysis of each known issue and an analysis of historical experience. Therefore, we have recorded reserves related to certain legal matters for which we believe it is probable that a loss will be incurred and the range of such loss can be estimated. With respect to other matters, we have concluded that a loss is only reasonably possible or remote, or is not estimable and, therefore, no liability is recorded. Assessing the likely outcome of pending litigation, including the amount of potential loss, if any, is highly subjective. Our judgments regarding likelihood of loss and our estimates of probable loss amounts may differ from actual results due to difficulties in predicting the outcome of jury trials, arbitration hearings, settlement discussions and related activity, and various other uncertainties. Due to the number of claims which are periodically asserted against us, and the magnitude of damages sought in those claims, actual losses in the future could significantly exceed our current estimates.
2. MARKETABLE SECURITIES
We apply the provisions of the Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Topic to our financial assets recorded at fair value, which consists of available-for-sale marketable securities. Level 1 inputs, the highest priority, are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets are used by us to estimate the fair value of our available-for-sale marketable securities.
The historical cost and estimated fair value of the available-for-sale marketable securities held by us are as follows:
                                                                 
    As of September 30, 2011     As of December 31, 2010  
                            Fair                             Fair  
    Historical     Gross Unrealized     Market     Historical     Gross Unrealized     Market  
(In thousands)   Cost     Gains     Losses     Value     Cost     Gains     Losses     Value  
            (Unaudited)                                                  
Equity securities
  $ 922     $     $ (107 )   $ 815     $ 1,800     $ 148     $     $ 1,948  
 
                                               
During the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2011, we sold $0.9 million of marketable securities and recognized a gain on sale of $42,000. There were no sales of marketable equity securities, or other-than-temporary impairments recorded, during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2010.

 

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3. RELATED PARTIES
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable from related parties consisted of the following:
                 
    September 30,     December 31,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010  
Organizational, offering and operating costs from sponsored REIT
  $ 2,828     $ 2,741  
Accrued property and asset management fees
    356       156  
Other accrued fees
    826       563  
 
           
Total
  $ 4,010     $ 3,460  
 
           
Substantially all of our Investment Management revenue is from related parties.
4. IDENTIFIED INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Identified intangible assets consisted of the following:
                         
            September 30,     December 31,  
(In thousands)   Useful Life     2011     2010  
Non-amortizing intangible assets:
                       
Trade name
  Indefinite   $ 64,100     $ 64,100  
Amortizing intangible assets:
                       
Identified intangible assets
                       
Affiliate agreements
  20 years     10,600       10,600  
Customer relationships
    5 to 7 years       8,725       8,725  
Internally developed software
  4 years     6,200       6,200  
Customer backlog
  1 year     746       746  
 
                   
 
            26,271       26,271  
Accumulated amortization
            (12,580 )     (9,673 )
 
                   
Total identified intangible assets, net
          $ 77,791     $ 80,698  
 
                   
Amortization expense recorded for the identified intangible assets was approximately $0.9 million and $2.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively. Amortization expense recorded for the identified intangible assets was approximately $0.8 million and $2.3 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010, respectively. Amortization expense is included as part of operating expense in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
5. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES
Accounts payable and accrued expenses consisted of the following:
                 
    September 30,     December 31,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010  
Salaries and related costs
  $ 17,576     $ 23,321  
Accounts payable
    18,297       15,332  
Accrued liabilities
    13,045       9,353  
Broker commissions
    7,574       10,519  
Bonuses
    6,602       8,701  
Property management fees and commissions due to third parties
    699       2,244  
 
           
Total
  $ 63,793     $ 69,470  
 
           
6. CREDIT FACILITY
On April 15, 2011, we entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), by and among us, Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc. (“GEMS”) and Colony, for an $18.0 million secured credit facility (the “Credit Facility”). The terms of the Credit Facility included a payment to Colony of (i) a closing fee equal to 1.00% of the Credit Facility amount and (ii) warrants (the “Warrants”) exercisable to purchase 6,712,000 shares of our common stock, valued at $0.7 million. The Credit Facility was fully drawn upon as of May 16, 2011.
The Credit Facility matures on March 1, 2012 and has an initial interest rate of 11.00% per annum, increasing by an additional 0.50% at the end of each three-month period subsequent to the closing date of the Credit Facility for so long as any loans are outstanding. In lieu of making a cash interest payment, we have the option to accrue any due and payable interest under the Credit Facility and issue additional warrants (the “Additional Warrants”) based on a formula calculation. The loan is not subject to any required principal amortization payments during the term. As of September 30, 2011, we have issued 328,679 Additional Warrants.

 

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The Credit Agreement contains customary representations and warranties, as well as customary events of default, in certain cases subject to negotiated periods to cure and exceptions, including but not limited to: failure to make certain payments when due, breach of covenants, breach of representations and warranties, certain insolvency proceedings, judgments and attachments and any change of control.
The Credit Agreement also contains various customary covenants that, in certain instances, restrict the ability of us and our subsidiaries to: (i) incur indebtedness; (ii) create liens on assets; (iii) engage in mergers or consolidations; (iv) engage in dispositions of assets; (v) make investments, loans, guarantees or advances; (vi) pay dividends and distributions with respect to, or repurchase, its outstanding capital stock; (vii) enter into sale and leaseback transactions; (viii) engage in transactions with affiliates; and (ix) change the nature of our business. In addition, the Credit Agreement requires (i) GEMS and its subsidiaries to maintain, as on the last day of each fiscal quarter, a minimum net worth as defined in the agreement of $20.0 million and (ii) the outstanding loan to remain in compliance with the defined borrowing base at the end of each fiscal month (subject to periods to cure). As of September 30, 2011, we were in compliance with all covenants, as amended.
As a condition to the entering into of the Credit Agreement, we, GEMS and certain of our other subsidiaries simultaneously entered into a Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated as of April 15, 2011 with Colony, in its capacity as administrative agent (the “Guarantee and Collateral Agreement”), pursuant to which each of our subsidiaries party thereto (other than GEMS) guaranteed the obligations of us and GEMS under the Credit Agreement and each of us and our subsidiaries party thereto granted a first priority security interest in substantially all of our assets.
The Warrants have an exercise price equal to $0.01 per share and a maturity date of three years from the date of issuance (the “Expiration Date”), but are exercisable prior to the Expiration Date upon the satisfaction of certain events as set forth in the Warrants, including, but not limited to, if the volume weighted average price of our common stock equals or exceeds $1.10 ($0.71, as amended) for any consecutive 30 calendar day period prior to the date of exercise or upon the occurrence of a fundamental change in which the consideration received for each share of our common stock equals or exceeds $1.10 ($0.71, as amended). The Warrants are exercisable, at the option of the holder of such Warrant, (a) by paying the exercise price in cash, (b) pursuant to a “cashless exercise” of the Warrant or (iii) by reduction of the principal amount of loans under the Credit Facility payable to the holder of such Warrant, or by a combination of the foregoing methods. The number of shares of our common stock issuable upon exercise of the Warrants or Additional Warrants is subject to adjustment in certain cases. All Additional Warrants issued pursuant to the Credit Agreement shall contain the same terms as the Warrants. We accounted for the Warrants in accordance with the requirements of ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging, (“Derivatives and Hedging Topic”) and ASC Topic 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity, (“Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity Topic”). Pursuant to those topics, we determined that the Warrants should be accounted for as a derivative liability as the Warrant Agreement allows for the number of warrants issuable upon exercise of the warrant to be adjusted under certain scenarios including an adjustment if we issue shares of common stock without consideration or for consideration per share less than either: (i) the per share market value or (ii) the trigger price. The Warrants were recorded as a discount to the Credit Facility at fair market value as of April 15, 2011 with a corresponding derivative liability. The derivative liability is adjusted to fair market value at each period end date and the debt discount is amortized over the term of the Credit Facility.
On July 22, 2011, each of us and our wholly owned subsidiary, GEMS, entered into an amendment and consent agreement (the “Credit Facility Amendment”) with respect to our Credit Facility, an amendment to the commitment letter for the Credit Facility, between Colony and the Company (the “Credit Facility Commitment Letter Amendment”) and amendments to the outstanding common stock purchase warrants issued to Colony pursuant to the terms of the Credit Agreement (the “Warrant Agreement Amendments”, and together with the Credit Facility Amendment and the Commitment Letter Amendment, collectively, the “Amendment Documents”).
Pursuant to the Amendment Documents, among other things, Colony expressly acknowledged and consented to the sale of Daymark, our wholly owned subsidiary, and each of its wholly owned (direct and indirect) subsidiaries and the restructuring of the outstanding intercompany debt obligations owing by us to Daymark. The Amendment Documents also clarified the definition of net worth to include any loans included in such net worth calculation. The Amendment Documents also permanently eliminated Colony’s right of first offer to provide us with debt financing prior to it consummating or endeavoring to consummate any similar financing with a third-party. Additionally, the Amendment Documents amended the price at which any common stock purchase warrants issuable to Colony in lieu of cash interest from time to time payable under the Credit Agreement and the common stock purchase warrants previously issued to Colony pursuant to the Credit Agreement, become exercisable from $1.10 per share to $0.71 per share. In addition, if in connection with any financing arrangement, we issue any options, or other equity linked securities to purchase our common stock, with an exercise condition that is based on a share price that is lower than $0.71 per share (“Trigger Price”), then the Trigger Price shall be adjusted downward (but not upward) to such lower price without any further action on the part of any party.

 

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We also entered into a Registration Rights Agreement (“Registration Rights Agreement”) with the holder of the Warrants, pursuant to which holders of the Warrants have the right to require us, subject to certain limitations, to effect the registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), of all or any portion of the shares of our common stock issued as a result of the exercise of all or a portion of the Warrants or the Additional Warrants. The Registration Rights Agreement contains piggy-back registration rights and demand registration rights with respect to the shares underlying the Warrants and the Additional Warrants.
On October 16, 2011, we entered into the second amendment (“Credit Facility Amendment No. 2”) increasing from $18.0 million to $28.0 million the size our Credit Facility. Pursuant to the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, C-III Investments LLC (“C-III”) agreed to become a lender under the Credit Facility and to provide an additional $10.0 million term loan (the “Incremental Term Loan”) under the existing terms and conditions of the Credit Facility, as amended by Credit Facility Amendment No. 2. The additional $10.0 million was drawn upon on October 21, 2011.
In connection with increasing the size of the Credit Facility we (i) issued an aggregate of 3,728,888 common stock purchase warrants, each exercisable for one share of our common stock (the “Second Amendment Warrants”) to Colony and C-II, and (ii) also amended the outstanding common stock purchase warrants (the “Warrant Agreement Amendments”) initially issued to Colony pursuant to the Credit Agreement (the “Existing Warrants”).
In consideration of C-III providing the Incremental Term Loan and Colony consenting to the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, the Company entered into an exclusivity agreement (the “Exclusivity Agreement”) with the Colony and C-III pursuant to which Colony and C-III have the exclusive right for a period of thirty days commencing on October 16, 2011, and subject to two consecutive thirty day extensions under certain circumstances, to pursue a strategic transaction with respect to the Company. In the event that Colony and C-III are diligently pursuing a strategic transaction with us at the end of each of the initial thirty day period (November 15, 2011) and the first thirty day extension (December 15, 2011), Colony and C-III shall have the right to extend the exclusivity period for an additional thirty days. We have been advised by representatives of C-III that they will be extending the exclusivity period for this initial 30 day period until at least December 15, 2011.
Notwithstanding such exclusivity, in the event we receive an unsolicited qualified offer from a third party during the exclusivity period, at any time subsequent to the sixtieth day of exclusivity the Company shall have the right to request that Colony and C-III match such unsolicited qualified offer within three business days, and if Colony and C-III fail to match such unsolicited qualified offer within three business days and the third party purchases all of the indebtedness and other outstanding obligations of the lenders under the amended Credit Facility, the Exclusivity Agreement shall automatically terminate and we may negotiate and enter into a transaction with such third party.
In addition, pursuant to the Warrant Agreement Amendments, the holder of the Existing Warrants waived the anti-dilution provisions in connection with the issuance of the Second Amendment Warrants and also agreed that the trigger price of the Existing Warrants would remain unchanged. The trigger price of Second Amendment Warrants are equal to the daily volume weighted average price of our common stock for the sixty consecutive calendar days immediately preceding the effective date of Credit Facility Amendment No. 2 (the “Second Amendment Warrant Trigger Price”). The Warrant Agreement Amendment also provides that all future warrants issued by us to the lenders under the Credit Facility in connection with interest payments in kind shall have a trigger price equal to the Second Amendment Warrant Trigger Price, or $0.50. In addition, the registration rights agreement initially entered into with Colony in connection with the entering into of the Credit Facility was amended to provide for identical registration rights with respect to the shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of each of the Existing Warrants and the Second Amendment Warrants.
In furtherance of the transactions contemplated by the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, C-III acquired $4.0 million of Colony’s interest in the Credit Facility, and an agreed upon share of the Existing Warrants. We are also obligated to pay the reasonable costs to effect the transactions contemplated by the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, up to $0.2 million, and the reasonable costs of C-III under the Exclusivity Agreement, up to $1.0 million.

 

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7. NOTES PAYABLE AND CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS
Notes payable and capital lease obligations consisted of the following:
                 
    September 30,     December 31,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010  
Note payable in connection with the sale of Daymark on August 10, 2011. The note requires quarterly interest payments, has a fixed interest rate of 7.95% and matures on August 10, 2016
  $ 5,000     $  
Note payable in connection with business acquisition in November 2010. The note requires quarterly principal and interest payments, has a fixed interest rate of 4.0% per annum and matures in November 2012
    287       459  
Note payable in connection with business acquisition in December 2010. The note requires monthly principal and interest payments, has a fixed interest rate of 2.0% per annum and matures in December 2013
    358       425  
Capital lease obligations
    155       723  
 
           
Total
    5,800       1,607  
Less portion classified as current
    (5,391 )     (1,041 )
 
           
Non-current portion
  $ 409     $ 566  
 
           
8. CONVERTIBLE NOTES
During the second quarter of 2010, we completed our offering (“Offering”) of $31.5 million of unsecured convertible notes (“Convertible Notes”) to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Section 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Convertible Notes pay interest at a rate of 7.95% per year semi-annually in arrears on May 1 and November 1 of each year, beginning November 1, 2010. The Convertible Notes mature on May 1, 2015.
We received net proceeds from the Offering of approximately $29.4 million after deducting all estimated offering expenses. We used the net proceeds from the Offering to fund growth initiatives, short-term working capital and for general corporate purposes.
Holders of the Notes may convert notes into shares of our common stock at the initial conversion rate of 445.583 shares per $1,000 principal amount of the Notes (equal to a conversion price of approximately $2.24 per share of our common stock), subject to adjustment in certain events (but not for accrued interest) at any time prior to the close of business on the scheduled trading day before the stated maturity date. In addition, following certain corporate transactions, we will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert in connection with such corporate transaction by a number of additional shares of our common stock as set forth in the Indenture. As of September 30, 2011, the maximum number of shares of common stock that could be required to be issued upon conversion of the Convertible Notes was 14,035,865 shares of common stock.
No holder of the Notes will be entitled to acquire shares of common stock delivered upon conversion to the extent (but only to the extent) such receipt would cause such converting holder to become, directly or indirectly, a “beneficial owner” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder) of more than 14.99% of the shares of our common stock outstanding at such time.
We may not redeem the Convertible Notes prior to May 6, 2013. On or after May 6, 2013 and prior to the maturity date, we may redeem for cash all or part of the Convertible Notes at 100% of the principal amount of the Convertible Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, including any additional interest, up to but excluding the redemption date.
Under certain circumstances following a fundamental change, which is substantially similar to a fundamental change with respect to our preferred stock, we will be required to make an offer to purchase all of the Convertible Notes at a purchase price of 100% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase.
The Convertible Notes are our unsecured senior obligations that:
   
rank equally with all of our other unsecured senior indebtedness;
   
effectively rank junior to any of our existing and future secured indebtedness to the extent of the assets securing such indebtedness; and
   
will be structurally subordinated to any indebtedness and other liabilities of our subsidiaries.
The Indenture provides for customary events of default, including our failure to pay any indebtedness for borrowed money, other than non-recourse mortgage debt, when due in excess of $1.0 million.

 

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Registration Rights Agreement
In connection with the Offering, we entered into a registration rights agreement pursuant to which we agreed to file with the SEC a shelf registration statement registering the resale of the notes and the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the Convertible Notes no later than June 30, 2010, and to use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the shelf registration statement to become effective within 85 days of May 7, 2010, or within 115 days of the closing date of the Offering if the registration statement is reviewed by the SEC. The shelf registration statement was filed on June 25, 2010 and became effective on July 19, 2010.
We have an obligation to continue to keep the shelf registration statement effective for a certain period of time, subject to certain suspension periods under certain circumstances. In the event that we fail to keep the registration statement effective in excess of such permissible suspension periods, we will be obligated to pay additional interest to holders of the Convertible Notes in an amount equal to 0.25% of the principal amount of the outstanding Convertible Notes to and including the 90th day following any such registration default and 0.50% of the principal amount of the outstanding Convertible Notes from and after the 91st day following any such registration default. Such additional interest will accrue until the date prior to the day the default is cured, or until the Convertible Notes are converted.
9. SEGMENT DISCLOSURE
Management has determined the reportable segments identified below according to the types of services offered and the manner in which operations and decisions are made. We operate in the following reportable segments:
Management Services — Management Services provides property management and related services for owners of investment properties and facilities management services for corporate owners and occupiers.
Transaction Services — Transaction Services advises buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants on the sale, leasing, financing and valuation of commercial property and includes our national accounts group and national affiliate program operations.
Investment Management — Investment Management includes related party transaction services for acquisition, financing, disposition and asset management services with respect to our REIT and dealer-manager services by our securities broker-dealer, which facilitates capital raising transactions for our REIT.
We also have certain corporate-level activities including legal administration, accounting, finance, human resources and management information systems which are not considered separate operating segments.
As a result of reclassifying Daymark to discontinued operations in the second quarter of 2011, our segment disclosure no longer includes a Daymark segment as the entire Daymark segment (which includes Alesco operations) is included in discontinued operations. In addition, Daymark historically provided some Investment Management services. Accordingly, all revenues and expenses related to our Investment Management segment that were provided by Daymark are also included in discontinued operations.

 

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We evaluate the performance of our segments based upon operating (loss) income. Operating (loss) income is defined as operating revenue less compensation and general and administrative costs and excludes other rental related, rental expense, interest expense, depreciation and amortization and certain other operating and non-operating expenses. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in our summary of significant accounting policies (See Note 1).
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     2011     2010  
Management Services
                               
Revenue
  $ 57,110     $ 65,351     $ 174,068     $ 207,909  
Compensation costs
    9,631       8,260       28,503       27,569  
Transaction commissions and related costs
    2,751       3,625       9,376       14,020  
Reimbursable salaries, wages and benefits
    38,392       45,975       116,235       145,354  
General and administrative
    2,363       2,280       8,312       7,070  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    191       482       1,521       1,271  
 
                       
Segment operating income
    3,782       4,729       10,121       12,625  
Transaction Services
                               
Revenue
    68,322       59,907       191,588       156,824  
Compensation costs
    13,702       13,094       44,092       35,270  
Transaction commissions and related costs
    43,150       39,927       123,605       102,325  
General and administrative
    10,244       8,752       30,934       26,267  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    547       145       2,515       1,173  
 
                       
Segment operating income (loss)
    679       (2,011 )     (9,558 )     (8,211 )
Investment Management
                               
Revenue
    3,260       3,763       13,249       7,656  
Compensation costs
    1,894       2,436       6,058       7,567  
Transaction commissions and related costs
    1,023       795       2,778       2,145  
General and administrative
    1,640       1,480       5,218       4,208  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    (1 )           (15 )      
 
                       
Segment operating loss
    (1,296 )     (948 )     (790 )     (6,264 )
Reconciliation to net income (loss) attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company:
                               
Total segment operating income (loss)
    3,165       1,770       (227 )     (1,850 )
Non-segment:
                               
Corporate overhead (compensation, general and administrative costs)
    (4,861 )     (7,723 )     (17,251 )     (23,448 )
Stock based compensation
    (775 )     (1,629 )     (3,153 )     (7,427 )
Severance, retention and related charges
    (6,911 )     (949 )     (9,466 )     (3,717 )
Depreciation and amortization
    (2,026 )     (1,660 )     (6,088 )     (4,974 )
Interest
    (2,372 )     (758 )     (4,060 )     (1,262 )
Other income (expense)
    43       262       180       (11 )
 
                       
Loss from continuing operations before income tax benefit (provision)
    (13,737 )     (10,687 )     (40,065 )     (42,689 )
Income tax benefit (provision)
    4,138       (180 )     4,161       (398 )
 
                       
Loss from continuing operations
    (9,599 )     (10,867 )     (35,904 )     (43,087 )
Loss from discontinued operations — net of taxes
    (980 )     (4,449 )     (8,076 )     (15,476 )
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations — net of taxes
    15,371             15,371        
 
                       
Net income (loss)
    4,792       (15,316 )     (28,609 )     (58,563 )
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (198 )     (511 )     (977 )     (2,518 )
 
                       
Net income (loss) attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company
  $ 4,990     $ (14,805 )   $ (27,632 )   $ (56,045 )
 
                       
10. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
On December 30, 2010, we completed the sale of NNN/SOF Avallon LLC (“Avallon”), a commercial office property located in Austin, Texas, for $37.0 million. We recognized a gain on sale of $1.3 million.
On June 1, 2011, we entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of substantially all of the assets of our real estate investment fund business, Alesco, to Lazard Asset Management LLC. Closing of the transaction occurred on September 23, 2011. We recognized a loss on the sale of Alesco, net of taxes, of approximately $1.8 million in the third quarter of 2011 after writing off the assets, liabilities and deficit balance in noncontrolling interests associated with Alesco and recognizing the costs related to such transaction.
On August 10, 2011, we completed the sale of Daymark for (1) a cash payment of $0.5 million, (2) a $5.0 million promissory note provided to NNNRA, and (3) the assumption by the purchaser of $10.7 million of the net intercompany balance payable from us to NNNRA. We recorded a gain on sale, net of taxes of $8.3 million, of approximately $17.2 million related to the disposition of Daymark in the third quarter of 2011, after recording the $5.0 million Promissory Note, writing off all of the assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests associated with Daymark and recognizing the transactions costs related to such transaction.
In instances when we expect to have significant ongoing cash flows or significant continuing involvement in the component beyond the date of sale, the income (loss) from certain properties and businesses held for sale continue to be fully recorded within continuing operations through the date of sale.
The net results of discontinued operations of Daymark and Alesco (which includes the net results of the Avallon property sold during the year ended December 31, 2010), in which we have no significant ongoing cash flows or significant continuing involvement, are reflected in the consolidated statements of operations as discontinued operations. We will receive certain fee income from Daymark on an ongoing basis that is not considered significant when compared to the operating results of Daymark.

 

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The following table summarizes the assets held for sale and liabilities held for sale as of December 31, 2010:
         
    December 31,  
(In thousands)   2010  
Restricted cash
  $ 4,652  
Assets under management
    901  
Accounts receivable from related parties — net
    12,718  
Notes receivable — net
    6,126  
Notes and advances to related parties — net
    12,275  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    682  
Investments in unconsolidated entities
    5,178  
Property held for sale
    45,858  
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements — net
    1,096  
Identified intangible assets — net
    7,398  
Other assets — net
    3,430  
 
     
Total assets
  $ 100,314  
 
     
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
  $ 8,098  
Due to related parties
    2,178  
Other liabilities
    25,704  
NNN senior notes
    16,277  
Mortgage notes
    70,000  
Capital lease obligations
    22  
Deferred tax liabilities
    199  
 
     
Total liabilities
  $ 122,478  
 
     
From August 1, 2006 to January 2007, NNN Collateralized Senior Notes, LLC (the “NNN Senior Notes Program”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Daymark, issued $16.3 million of notes which had an original maturity date of August 29, 2011 and bore interest at a rate of 8.75% per annum. Interest on the notes was payable monthly in arrears on the first day of each month, commencing on the first day of the month occurring after issuance. The notes mature five years from the date of first issuance of any of such notes, with two one-year options to extend the maturity date of the notes at the Senior Notes Program’s option. The interest rate will increase to 9.25% per annum during any extension. The Senior Notes Program has the right to redeem the notes, in whole or in part, at par value. The notes are the NNN Senior Notes Program’s senior obligations, ranking pari passu in right of payment with all other senior debt incurred and ranking senior to any subordinated debt it may incur. The notes are effectively subordinated to all present or future debt secured by real or personal property to the extent of the value of the collateral securing such debt. The notes are secured by a pledge of the NNN Senior Notes Program’s membership interest in NNN Series A Holdings, LLC, which is the Senior Notes Program’s wholly owned subsidiary for the sole purpose of making the investments. Each note is guaranteed by Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC (“GERI”). The guarantee is secured by a pledge of GERI membership interest in the NNN Senior Notes Program. The guarantee requires GERI to maintain at all times during the term the notes are outstanding a net worth of at least $0.5 million.
On May 13, 2011, pursuant to the terms of the indenture underlying the NNN Senior Notes, the NNN Senior Notes Program notified the trustee and holders of the NNN Senior Notes that the maturity date of the NNN Senior Notes was extended by one year, effective as of August 29, 2011 (the “Extension Effective Date”). Accordingly, the maturity date of the NNN Senior Notes is August 29, 2012. In accordance with the terms and provisions of the indenture, the NNN Senior Notes shall bear interest at 9.25% per annum until the extended maturity date. The NNN Senior Notes Program may extend the maturity date for an additional year, through August 29, 2013, in accordance with the terms and provisions of the indenture and the NNN Senior Notes.
The following table summarizes the income (loss) and (expense) components net of taxes that comprised discontinued operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010:
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     2011     2010  
Revenue
  $ 3,126     $ 7,518     $ 14,184     $ 22,062  
Rental related revenue
    1,710       7,744       8,916       23,043  
Compensation costs
    (4,062 )     (6,533 )     (15,707 )     (18,844 )
General and administrative
    (2,637 )     (1,496 )     (14,046 )     (6,005 )
Provision for doubtful accounts
    39       (1,015 )     (2,206 )     (2,515 )
Depreciation and amortization
    (341 )     (1,950 )     (2,628 )     (5,264 )
Rental related
    (907 )     (5,393 )     (5,514 )     (16,244 )
Interest
    (760 )     (2,227 )     (3,903 )     (6,771 )
Real estate related (impairments) recoveries
          (750 )     9,858       (2,573 )
Intangible asset impairment
          (338 )     (480 )     (1,977 )
Equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated entities
    53       (275 )     309       (498 )
Interest income
    23       35       101       86  
Other (expense) income
    (422 )     263       (107 )     25  
Income tax benefit (provision)
    3,198       (32 )     3,147       (1 )
 
                       
Loss from discontinued operations — net of taxes
    (980 )     (4,449 )     (8,076 )     (15,476 )
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations — net of taxes
    15,371             15,371        
 
                       
Total income (loss) from discontinued operations
  $ 14,391     $ (4,449 )   $ 7,295     $ (15,476 )
 
                       

 

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11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Operating Leases — We have non-cancelable operating lease obligations for office space and certain equipment ranging from one to ten years, and sublease agreements under which we act as a sublessor. The office space leases often times provide for annual rent increases, and typically require payment of property taxes, insurance and maintenance costs.
Rent expense under these operating leases was approximately $5.9 million and $5.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and approximately $17.9 million and $17.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Rent expense is included in general and administrative expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Capital Lease Obligations — We lease computers, copiers and postage equipment that are accounted for as capital leases.
NYSE Listing — On April 7, 2011, we received written notice from NYSE Regulation, Inc. that the 30 trading-day average closing price of its common stock had fallen below $1.00 and as a consequence, we were no longer in compliance with the continued listing criteria of the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) relating to minimum average trading price. As of April 4, 2011, the Company’s 30 trading-day average closing price was $0.99 per share.
The NYSE’s continued listing standards require that we maintain an average market capitalization and shareowners’ equity of not less than $50.0 million and that our common stock, among other things, not have an average closing price of at least $1.00 over a consecutive thirty trading day period. As of September 30, 2011, we had a market capitalization and shareowner’s deficit of $29.4 million and $101.9 million, respectively, a stock price of $0.42 per share and a thirty day average of $0.53 per share. There can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain the minimum levels of market capitalization and shareowner’s equity and stock price as required by the NYSE. If we are unable to maintain compliance with the NYSE’s continued listing standard, our common stock will be delisted from the NYSE. As a result, we likely would have our common stock listed on another national exchange or quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board (“OTC BB”) in order to have our common stock continue to be traded on a public market. In order to have our common stock listed on another national exchange, we will need to effect a reverse stock split. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain the required shareowner approval for such reverse stock split. Securities that trade on the OTC BB generally have less liquidity and greater volatility than securities that trade on the NYSE. Delisting from the NYSE and failure to register on another national exchange, of which there are no assurances, would trigger a “fundamental change” under the indenture for our Convertible Notes and allow the holders of the Convertible Notes to trigger a repurchase obligation by us of the Convertible Notes. We may not have sufficient funds to repurchase the Convertible Notes should such a fundamental change occur. Delisting from the NYSE may also preclude us from using certain state securities law exemptions, which could make it more difficult and expensive for us to raise capital in the future and more difficult for us to provide compensation packages sufficient to attract and retain top talent. In addition, because issuers whose securities trade on the OTC BB are not subject to the corporate governance and other standards imposed by the NYSE, and such issuers receive less news and analyst coverage, our reputation may suffer, which could result in a decrease in the trading price of our shares. The delisting of our common stock from the NYSE, therefore, could significantly disrupt the ability of investors to trade our common stock and could have a material adverse effect on us and the value and liquidity of our common stock.
As required by the NYSE, in order to maintain our listing, we were required to have our average share price return to at least the $1.00 price level by October 7, 2011. As of October 7, 2011, and through the date of this Quarterly Report, we have not cured this price deficiency. We have been in continuous dialogue with the NYSE regarding our continuing efforts to cure this deficiency, and at the present time the NYSE has agreed to continue to work with us on an interim basis as we take actions to cure this deficiency in connection with our strategic process or otherwise.
Our business operations, SEC reporting requirements and debt agreements are currently unaffected by our current NYSE status.
Claims and Lawsuits — We are involved in lawsuits relating to certain of the investment management offerings of our former affiliate, Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC (“GERI”), in particular, its TIC programs. These lawsuits allege a variety of claims in connection with these offerings, including mismanagement, breach of contract, negligence, fraud and breach of fiduciary duty, among other claims. Plaintiffs in these suits seek a variety of remedies, including rescission, actual and punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees and costs. The damages being sought are unspecified and to be determined at trial. It is difficult to predict the ultimate disposition of these lawsuits and our ultimate liability with respect to such claims and lawsuits. It is also difficult to predict the cost of defending these matters and to what extent claims will be covered by our existing insurance policies. In the event of an unfavorable outcome, the amounts we may be required to pay in the discharge of liabilities or settlements could have a material adverse effect on our cash flows, financial position and results of operations.
Met Center 10
One such matter relates to a TIC property known as Met Center 10, located in Austin, Texas. The Company and certain of its former and current subsidiaries have been involved in multiple legal proceedings relating to Met Center 10, including three actions pending in state court in Austin, Texas and an arbitration proceeding being conducted in California. The arbitration proceeding involves GERI, a subsidiary of Daymark, and is pending before the American Arbitration Association in Orange County, California captioned NNN Met Center 10 1, LLC, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC (the “Met 10 Arbitration”). A state court action involving GERI is pending in the District Court of Travis County, Texas captioned NNN Met Center 10, LLC v. Met Center Partners-6, Ltd., et al. (the “Met 10 Main Action”). Two additional state court actions involving the Company, GERI, and Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc. (“GEMS”) are pending in the District Court for Travis County, Texas captioned NNN Met Center 10-1, LLC v. Lexington Insurance Company, et al. and NNN Met Center 10, LLC v. Lexington Insurance Company, et al. (together, the “Met 10 Lexington Actions”).
As described above, under the Purchase Agreement, we agreed to indemnify Purchaser and its affiliates (including GERI) against liabilities, expenses, obligations, or claims related to Met Center 10, subject to certain limitations.
In the Met 10 Arbitration, TIC investors asserted, among other things, that GERI should bear responsibility for alleged diminution in the value of the property and their investments as a result of ground movement. The Met 10 Arbitration was bifurcated into two phases. In the first phase, the arbitrator ruled in favor of the TIC investors, finding, among other things, that the TIC investors had properly terminated the property management agreement for cause. In Phase 2 of the arbitration, the TICs asserted claims for damages against GERI arising from alleged breaches of the management agreement and other alleged wrongful acts in connection with the management of the Met Center 10 property and other alleged breaches of duty.

 

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Before the beginning of the Phase 2 hearing, the TICs, GERI, and Lexington Insurance Company reached a settlement, which has been documented and executed by the parties, and which is awaiting court approval. The settlement is for $0.1 million, net of insurance recoveries. Among other things, under the terms of the settlement, GERI must pay $0.1 million to the TICs shortly after the settlement is approved by the court, and may be obligated to subsequently pay up to approximately $0.6 million in addition to the initial $0.1 million payment, depending upon the resolution of claims relating to Met Center 10 against parties other than GERI. The TICs are releasing all claims relating to Met Center 10 against, among others, us and GERI. The $0.1 million settlement was paid by GERI in the third quarter of 2011.
In the Met 10 Texas Action, GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC were pursuing claims against the developers and sellers of the property (the “Sellers”), the due diligence firm retained by GERI in connection with the purchase of the Met Center 10 property, and the engineering, construction, and design professionals who performed work relating to the Met Center 10 property (together with the due diligence firm, the “Professionals”) to recover damages arising from, among other things, ground movement. The Sellers and the Professionals were asserting counterclaims against GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC. GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, on the one hand, and the Sellers, on the other, have reached a settlement resolving all claims between them, which has been documented and executed by the parties. Under that settlement, GERI, its affiliates, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC are being released from all claims by the Sellers relating to Met Center 10. Neither GERI nor its affiliates (or NNN Met Center 10, LLC) are required to make any payments pursuant to the settlement with the Sellers. In addition, GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, on the one hand, and the Professionals, on the other hand, have reached a tentative settlement resolving all claims between them, which is in the process of being documented and approved. Under that settlement, GERI, its affiliates, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC are being released from all claims by the Professionals relating to Met Center 10. Neither GERI nor its affiliates (or NNN Met Center 10, LLC) are required to make any payments pursuant to the tentative settlement with the Professionals.
In the Met 10 Lexington Actions, the TIC investors were asserting claims against former officers and employees of the Company and other defendants in connection with the negotiation and documentation of an insurance settlement relating to the Met Center 10 property, and an alleged misallocation and/or misappropriation of the proceeds of that settlement. In addition, Lexington Insurance Company asserted claims against NNN Met Center 10, LLC, the Company, GERI, and GEMS arising of the insurance settlement. Pursuant to the settlement of the Met 10 Arbitration described above, the TICs are releasing and dismissing certain claims against the former officers and employees of the Company, including claims that were being asserted in the Met 10 Lexington Actions, and Lexington is releasing and dismissing its claims against the Company, GERI, GEMS, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, including the claims Lexington was asserting in the Met 10 Lexington Actions.
TIC Program Exchange Litigation
GERI and Grubb & Ellis Company are defendants in an action filed on or about February 14, 2011 in the Superior Court of Orange County, California captioned S. Sidney Mandel, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC, et al. The plaintiffs allege that, in order to induce the plaintiffs to purchase $22.3 million in TIC investments that GERI (formerly known as Triple Net Properties, LLC) was syndicating, GERI offered to subsequently “repurchase” those investments and provide certain “put” rights under certain terms and conditions pursuant to a letter agreement executed between GERI and the plaintiffs. The plaintiffs allege that GERI has failed to honor its purported obligations under the letter agreement and have initiated suit for breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing and declaratory relief as to the rights and obligations of the parties under the letter agreement. By way of a first amended complaint, the plaintiffs are alleging that GERI is merely an inadequately capitalized instrumentality of Grubb & Ellis Company and that Grubb & Ellis Company should be held liable for acts and omissions of GERI. The plaintiffs are seeking damages totaling $26.5 million, attorneys’ fees and costs. We intend to vigorously defend these claims and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.
Under the Purchase Agreement, IUC-SOV, LLC agreed to indemnify and hold harmless us and our officers, directors, and affiliates against any liabilities of, obligations of or claims against us related to or arising from the businesses or operations of any “Acquired Company” (including GERI). By letter dated September 26, 2011, the Company made a demand, pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, that IUC-SOV, LLC indemnify and hold harmless us against any and all losses that may be incurred or suffered by us in connection with the Mandel action. IUC-SOV, LLC did not make any objection to that claim for indemnification.

 

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We and GERI filed demurrers to the first amended complaint. The court sustained GERI’s demurrer and granted the plaintiffs leave to file an amended pleading. The court denied our demurrer. We intend to vigorously defend the claims asserted by the plaintiffs and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.
Durham Office Park
Grubb & Ellis Company and Grubb & Ellis Securities as well as various Daymark subsidiaries are defendants in an action filed on or about July 21, 2010 in North Carolina Business Court, Durham County Superior Court Division, captioned NNN Durham Office Portfolio I, LLC, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Company, et al. Plaintiffs invested more than $11 million for TIC interests in a commercial real estate project in Durham, North Carolina. Plaintiffs claim, among other things, that information regarding the intentions of the property’s anchor tenant to remain in occupancy was withheld and misrepresented. Plaintiffs have asserted claims for breach of contract, negligence, negligent misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, unfair and deceptive trade practices and conspiracy. We intend to vigorously defend these claims and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.
We are involved in various claims and lawsuits arising out of the ordinary conduct of our business, many of which may not be covered by our insurance policies. In the opinion of management, in the event of an unfavorable outcome, the amounts we may be required to pay in the discharge of liabilities or settlements could have a material adverse effect on our cash flows, financial position and results of operations. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for these matters.
Guarantees — Historically Daymark provided non-recourse carve-out guarantees or indemnities with respect to loans for properties owned or under the management of Daymark. As of September 30, 2011, subsequent to the sale of Daymark, there were six properties under the management of Daymark for which we continue to have non-recourse carve-out loan guarantees or indemnities of approximately $120.7 million in total principal outstanding (of which $12.2 million are recourse loan guarantees) with terms ranging from one to 10 years, secured by properties with a total aggregate purchase price of approximately $198.0 million. As of December 31, 2010, there were 133 properties under management with non-recourse carve-out loan guarantees or indemnities of approximately $3.1 billion in total principal outstanding with terms ranging from one to 10 years, secured by properties with a total aggregate purchase price of approximately $4.3 billion. In addition, the consolidated VIEs and unconsolidated VIEs are jointly and severally liable on the non-recourse mortgage debt related to the interests in our TIC investments.
Our guarantees consisted of the following as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
                 
    September 30,     December 31,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010  
Daymark non-recourse/carve-out guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management(1)
  $     $ 2,975,582  
Grubb & Ellis Company non-recourse/carve-out guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management(1)
  $ 77,394     $ 47,092  
Daymark and Grubb & Ellis Company non-recourse/carve-out guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management(2)
  $ 31,052     $ 31,271  
Daymark non-recourse/carve-out guarantees of debt of Daymark owned property(1)
  $     $ 60,000  
Daymark recourse guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management
  $     $ 12,900  
Grubb & Ellis Company recourse guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management(3)
  $ 12,248     $ 11,998  
Daymark recourse guarantees of debt of Daymark owned property(4)
  $     $ 10,000  
(1)  
A “non-recourse/carve-out” guarantee or indemnity generally imposes liability on the guarantor or indemnitor in the event the borrower engages in certain acts prohibited by the loan documents. Each non-recourse carve-out guarantee or indemnity is an individual document entered into with the mortgage lender in connection with the purchase or refinance of an individual property. While there is not a standard document evidencing these guarantees or indemnities, liability under the non-recourse carve-out guarantees or indemnities generally may be triggered by, among other things, any or all of the following:
   
a voluntary bankruptcy or similar insolvency proceeding of any borrower;
   
a “transfer” of the property or any interest therein in violation of the loan documents;
   
a violation by any borrower of the special purpose entity requirements set forth in the loan documents;

 

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any fraud or material misrepresentation by any borrower or any guarantor in connection with the loan;
   
the gross negligence or willful misconduct by any borrower in connection with the property, the loan or any obligation under the loan documents;
   
the misapplication, misappropriation or conversion of (i) any rents, security deposits, proceeds or other funds, (ii) any insurance proceeds paid by reason of any loss, damage or destruction to the property, and (iii) any awards or other amounts received in connection with the condemnation of all or a portion of the property;
   
any waste of the property caused by acts or omissions of borrower of the removal or disposal of any portion of the property after an event of default under the loan documents; and
   
the breach of any obligations set forth in an environmental or hazardous substances indemnity agreement from borrower.
Certain acts (typically the first three listed above) may render the entire debt balance recourse to the guarantor or indemnitor, while the liability for other acts is typically limited to the damages incurred by the lender. Notice and cure provisions vary between guarantees and indemnities. Generally the guarantor or indemnitor irrevocably and unconditionally guarantees or indemnifies the lender the payment and performance of the guaranteed or indemnified obligations as and when the same shall be due and payable, whether by lapse of time, by acceleration or maturity or otherwise, and the guarantor or indemnitor covenants and agrees that it is liable for the guaranteed or indemnified obligations as a primary obligor. As of September 30, 2011, to the best of our knowledge, there was no debt owed by us as a result of the borrowers engaging in prohibited acts, despite the prohibited acts that occurred as more fully described below.
(2)  
We and Daymark are each joint and severally liable on such non-recourse/carve-out guarantees.
(3)  
We have $1.0 million held as collateral by a lender related to one of our recourse guarantees that, upon the occurrence of any triggering event or condition under the guarantee, will be used to cover all or a portion of the amounts due under the guarantee.
(4)  
In addition to the $10.0 million principal guarantee, Daymark has guaranteed any shortfall in the payment of interest on the unpaid principal amount of the mortgage debt on one owned property.
If property values and performance decline, the risk of exposure under these guarantees increases. We initially evaluate these guarantees to determine if the guarantee meets the criteria required to record a liability in accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 460, Guarantees, (“Guarantees Topic”). Any such liabilities were insignificant upon execution of the guarantees. In addition, on an ongoing basis, we evaluate the need to record an additional liability in accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 450, Contingencies, (“Contingencies Topic”). As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we had recourse guarantees of $12.2 million and $24.9 million, respectively, relating to debt of properties under Daymark management (of which $12.2 million and $12.0 million, respectively, is recourse back to Grubb & Ellis Company, the remainder of which is recourse to Daymark). As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, approximately $1.3 million and $9.5 million, respectively, of these recourse guarantees relate to debt that has matured, is in default, or is not currently in compliance with certain loan covenants (of which $1.3 million and $2.0 million, respectively, is recourse back to Grubb & Ellis Company, the remainder of which is recourse to Daymark). In addition, as of September 30, 2011, and December 31, 2010, we had $8.0 million of recourse guarantees related to debt that will mature in the next twelve months (of which $8.0 million is recourse back to Grubb & Ellis Company). In connection with the sale of Daymark, the purchaser indemnified us up to $7.5 million for liabilities, obligations and claims related to or arising from the business or operations of Daymark or its subsidiaries. Our evaluation of the potential liability under these guarantees may prove to be inaccurate and liabilities may exceed estimates. In evaluating the potential liability relating to such guarantees, we consider factors such as the value of the properties secured by the debt, the likelihood that the lender will call the guarantee in light of the current debt service and other factors. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we recorded a liability of $0 and $0.8 million which is included in liabilities held for sale, related to our estimate of probable loss related to recourse guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management and previously under management.
An unaffiliated, individual investor entity (the “TIC debtor”), who was a minority owner in the Met Center 10 TIC program originally sponsored by GERI, filed a chapter 11 bankruptcy petition in January 2011. The principal balance of the mortgage debt for the Met Center 10 property was approximately $29.4 million at the time of the bankruptcy filing. On February 1, 2011, the special servicer for that loan foreclosed on all of the undivided TIC ownership interests in the Met Center 10 property, except the interest owned by the TIC debtor. The automatic stay imposed following the bankruptcy filing prevented the special servicer from foreclosing

 

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on 100% of the TIC ownership interests. The special servicer filed a motion for relief from the automatic stay to foreclose upon the remaining TIC ownership interest. By order dated May 2, 2011, the bankruptcy court continued the automatic stay, subject to certain conditions, to November 1, 2011. The May 2, 2011 order also established a procedure by which the special servicer would be required to reconvey the foreclosed upon interests to the Met Center 10 debtor and the other investor entities following payment of an “amount due” as that term is defined in the May 2, 2011 Order. By subsequent order dated October 13, 2011, the bankruptcy court continued the automatic stay, subject to certain conditions, to February 28, 2012.
GERI executed a non-recourse carve-out guarantee in connection with the mortgage loan for the Met 10 property. As discussed in the “Guarantees” disclosure above, such a “non-recourse carve-out” guarantee only imposes liability on GERI if certain acts prohibited by the loan documents take place. Liability under the non- recourse carve-out guarantee may be triggered by the voluntary bankruptcy filing made by the TIC debtor. As a consequence of the bankruptcy filing, the lender may assert that GERI is liable under the guarantee. GERI’s ultimate liability under the guarantee is uncertain as a result of numerous factors, including, without limitation, whether the bankruptcy filing of the TIC debtor triggered GERI’s obligations under the guarantee, the amount of the lender’s credit bid at the time of foreclosure, events in the bankruptcy proceeding and the ultimate disposition of the bankruptcy proceeding, and the defenses GERI may raise under the guarantee. As described above, under the Purchase Agreement, the Company agreed to indemnify Purchaser and its affiliates (including GERI) against liabilities, expenses, obligations, or claims related to Met Center 10, subject to certain limitations. The Company intends to vigorously dispute any imposition of any liability under the Met Center 10 guarantee. As of September 30, 2011, we did not have any liabilities accrued related to that guarantee.
Environmental Obligations — In our role as property manager, we could incur liabilities for the investigation or remediation of hazardous or toxic substances or wastes at properties we currently or formerly managed or at off-site locations where wastes were disposed of. Similarly, under debt financing arrangements on properties owned by sponsored programs, we have agreed to indemnify the lenders for environmental liabilities and to remediate any environmental problems that may arise. We are not aware of any environmental liability or unasserted claim or assessment relating to an environmental liability that we believe would require disclosure or the recording of a loss contingency.
Deferred Compensation Plan — During 2008, we implemented a deferred compensation plan that permits employees and independent contractors to defer portions of their compensation, subject to annual deferral limits, and have it credited to one or more investment options in the plan. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, $3.0 million and $3.4 million, respectively, reflecting the non-stock liability under this plan were included in accounts payable and accrued expenses. We have purchased whole-life insurance contracts on certain employee participants to recover distributions made or to be made under this plan and as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 have recorded the cash surrender value of the policies of $0.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively, in prepaid expenses and other assets.
In addition, we award “phantom” shares of our stock to participants under the deferred compensation plan. These awards vest over three to five years. Vested phantom stock awards are also unfunded and paid according to distribution elections made by the participants at the time of vesting and will be settled by issuing shares of our common stock from our treasury share account or issuing unregistered shares of our common stock to the participant. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, an aggregate of 3.8 million and 4.1 million phantom share grants were outstanding, respectively. Generally, upon vesting, recipients of the grants are entitled to receive the number of phantom shares granted, regardless of the value of the shares upon the date of vesting; provided, however, as of September 30, 2011 grants with respect to 686,670 phantom shares had a guaranteed minimum share price ($2.4 million in the aggregate) that will result in us paying additional compensation to the participants should the value of the shares upon vesting be less than the grant date value of the shares. We account for additional compensation relating to the “guarantee” portion of the awards by measuring at each reporting date the additional payment that would be due to the participant based on the difference between the then current value of the shares awarded and the guaranteed value. This award is then amortized on a straight-line basis as compensation expense over the requisite service (vesting) period, with an offset to deferred compensation liability.
12. PREFERRED STOCK
During the fourth quarter of 2009, we completed a private placement of 965,700 shares of 12% cumulative participating perpetual convertible preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Preferred Stock”), to qualified institutional buyers and other accredited investors, including our directors and management.
Each share of Preferred Stock is convertible, at the holder’s option, into our common stock, par value $.01 per share at a conversion rate of 60.606 shares of common stock for each share of Preferred Stock, which represents a conversion price of approximately $1.65 per share of common stock, a 10.0% premium to the closing price of the common stock on October 22, 2009. In addition, upon conversion, accrued unpaid dividends are convertible into shares of common stock at the conversion ratio of 0.60606 shares of common stock per $1.00. As of September 30, 2011, the maximum number of shares of common stock that could be required to be issued upon conversion of the Preferred Stock, including accrued unpaid dividends, was 63,867,822 shares of common stock. On October 5, 2011, one of our holders of Preferred Stock converted 2,200 shares of Preferred Stock, including accrued and unpaid dividends, into 145,740 shares of common stock.

 

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The terms of the Preferred Stock provide for cumulative dividends from and including the date of original issuance in the amount of $12.00 per share each year. Dividends on the Preferred Stock will be payable when, as and if declared, quarterly in arrears, on March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31, beginning on December 31, 2009. In addition, in the event of any cash distribution to holders of the Common Stock, holders of Preferred Stock will be entitled to participate in such distribution as if such holders had converted their shares of Preferred Stock into Common Stock.
During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Board of Directors declared four quarterly dividends of $3.00 per share on our Preferred Stock, which were paid on March 31, 2010, June 30, 2010, September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2010. The Board of Directors determined, as permitted, not to declare a dividend on our 12% Preferred Stock, for the quarters ending March 31, 2011, June 30, 2011 and September 30, 2011. Since we have missed two consecutive quarterly dividend payments, the dividend rate will automatically be increased by 0.50% of the initial liquidation preference per share per quarter (up to a maximum amount of increase of 2% of the initial liquidation preference per share) until cumulative dividends have been paid in full. In addition, subject to certain limitations, in the event the dividends on the Preferred Stock are in arrears for six or more quarters, whether or not consecutive, holders representing a majority of the shares of Preferred Stock voting together as a class with holders of any other class or series of preferred stock upon which like voting rights have been conferred and are exercisable will be entitled to nominate and vote for the election of two additional directors to serve on the board of directors until all unpaid dividends with respect to the Preferred Stock and any other class or series of preferred stock upon which like voting rights have been conferred or are exercisable have been paid or declared and a sum sufficient for payment has been set aside therefore. Since the terms of the Preferred Stock provide for cumulative dividends, we have accrued the unpaid first and second quarter 2011 dividend payments of $3.00 per share per quarter and third quarter 2011 dividend payment of $3.125 per share on our Preferred Stock, which is included in Preferred Stock on our consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2011. As of September 30, 2011, the amount of accrued and unpaid dividends totaled $8.8 million.
Holders of Preferred Stock may require us to repurchase all, or a specified whole number, of their Preferred Stock upon the occurrence of a “Fundamental Change” (as defined in the Certificate of Designations) with respect to any Fundamental Change that occurs (i) prior to November 15, 2014, at a repurchase price equal to 110% of the sum of the initial liquidation preference plus accumulated but unpaid dividends, and (ii) from November 15, 2014 until prior to November 15, 2019, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the sum of the initial liquidation preference plus accumulated but unpaid dividends. On or after November 15, 2014 we may, at our option, redeem the Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, by paying an amount equal to 110% of the sum of the initial liquidation preference per share plus any accrued and unpaid dividends to and including the date of redemption.
In the event of certain events that constitute a “Change in Control” (as defined in the Certificate of Designations) prior to November 15, 2014, the conversion rate of the Preferred Stock will be subject to increase. The amount of the increase in the applicable conversion rate, if any, will be based on the date in which the Change in Control becomes effective, the price to be paid per share with respect to the Common Stock and the transaction constituting the Change in Control.
Except as otherwise provided by law, the holders of the Preferred Stock vote together with the holders of common stock as one class on all matters on which holders of common stock vote. Holders of the Preferred Stock when voting as a single class with holders of common stock are entitled to voting rights equal to the number of shares of common stock into which the Preferred Stock is convertible, on an “as if” converted basis. Holders of Preferred Stock vote as a separate class with respect to certain matters.
Upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, holders of the Preferred Stock will be entitled, prior to any distribution to holders of any securities ranking junior to the Preferred Stock, including but not limited to the common stock, and on a pro rata basis with other preferred stock of equal ranking, a cash liquidation preference equal to the greater of (i) 110% of the sum of the initial liquidation preference per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends thereon, if any, from November 6, 2009, the date of the closing of the Offering, and (ii) an amount equal to the distribution amount each holder of Preferred Stock would have received had all shares of Preferred Stock been converted to common stock.
We accounted for the Preferred Stock transaction in accordance with the requirements of the Derivatives and Hedging Topic and the Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity Topic. Pursuant to those topics, we determined that the Preferred Stock should be accounted for as a single instrument as the terms of the Preferred Stock do not include any embedded derivatives that would require bifurcation from the host instrument. Pursuant to the Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity Topic, we determined that the Preferred Stock should not be classified as a liability as the characteristics of the Preferred Stock are more closely related to equity as there is no mandatory redemption date. According to the terms of the Preferred Stock, the Preferred Stock will only become redeemable at the option of the

 

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holder upon a Fundamental Change. In addition, we determined that there are various events and circumstances that would allow for redemption of the Preferred Stock at the option of the holders, however, several of these redemption events are not within our control and, therefore, the Preferred Stock should be classified outside of permanent equity in accordance with the Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity Topic as these events were assessed as not probable of becoming redeemable. We will continuously assess the probability of the Preferred Stock becoming redeemable as facts and circumstances change to determine if such changes warrant a reclassification from outside of permanent equity to a liability.
13. EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE
We compute earnings (loss) per share in accordance with the requirements of the Earnings Per Share Topic. Under the Earnings Per Share Topic, basic earnings (loss) per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common and common equivalent shares of stock outstanding during the periods utilizing the treasury stock method for stock options and unvested restricted stock.
The following is a reconciliation between weighted-average shares used in the basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share calculations:
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
(In thousands, except per share amounts)   2011     2010     2011     2010  
Numerator for loss per share — basic:
                               
Loss from continuing operations
  $ (9,599 )   $ (10,867 )   $ (35,904 )   $ (43,087 )
Less: Preferred dividends
    (3,018 )     (2,897 )     (8,812 )     (8,691 )
 
                       
Loss from continuing operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
    (12,617 )     (13,764 )     (44,716 )     (51,778 )
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
    14,391       (4,449 )     7,295       (15,476 )
Less: Income allocated to participating shareowners
    (1,023 )                  
 
                       
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
    13,368       (4,449 )     7,295       (15,476 )
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
    198       511       977       2,518  
 
                       
Net income (loss) attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ 949     $ (17,702 )   $ (36,444 )   $ (64,736 )
 
                       
Denominator for loss per share — basic:
                               
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding
    66,059       64,860       65,886       64,624  
Denominator for loss per share — diluted:
                               
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding
    66,784       64,860       65,886       64,624  
Loss per share — basic:
                               
Loss from continuing operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ (0.19 )   $ (0.20 )   $ (0.66 )   $ (0.76 )
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
    0.20       (0.07 )     0.11       (0.24 )
 
                       
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ 0.01     $ (0.27 )   $ (0.55 )   $ (1.00 )
 
                       
Loss per share — diluted(1):
                               
Loss from continuing operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ (0.19 )   $ (0.20 )   $ (0.66 )   $ (0.76 )
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
    0.20       (0.07 )     0.11       (0.24 )
 
                       
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ 0.01     $ (0.27 )   $ (0.55 )   $ (1.00 )
 
                       
Total participating shareowners:
                               
(as of the end of the period used to allocate earnings)
                               
Preferred shares (as if converted to common shares)
    63,868       58,527       63,868       58,527  
Unvested restricted stock
    3,920       4,990       3,920       4,990  
Unvested phantom stock
    3,498       4,273       3,498       4,273  
 
                       
Total participating shares
    71,286       67,790       71,286       67,790  
 
                       
Total vested common shares outstanding
    66,104       64,911       66,104       64,911  
 
                       

 

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(1)  
Excluded from the calculation of diluted weighted-average common shares of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 were the following securities, the effect of which would be anti-dilutive:
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     2011     2010  
Outstanding unvested restricted stock
    3,331       4,990       3,920       4,990  
Outstanding options to purchase shares of common stock
    275       435       275       435  
Outstanding unvested shares of phantom stock
    2,317       4,273       3,498       4,273  
Outstanding warrants*
    7,041             7,041        
Convertible notes (as if converted to common shares)
    14,036       14,036       14,036       14,036  
Convertible preferred shares (as if converted to common shares)
    63,868       58,527       63,868       58,527  
 
                       
Total
    90,868       82,261       92,638       82,261  
 
                       
*  
In connection with increasing the size of our Credit Facility on October 16, 2011 we issued an additional 3,728,888 common stock purchase warrants, each exercisable for one share of our common stock.
14. COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
The components of comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, are as follows:
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     2011     2010  
Net income (loss)
  $ 4,792     $ (15,316 )   $ (28,609 )   $ (58,563 )
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
                               
Net unrealized (loss) gain on investments
    (163 )     113       (255 )     193  
 
                       
Total comprehensive loss
    4,629       (15,203 )     (28,864 )     (58,370 )
 
                       
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (198 )     (511 )     (977 )     (2,518 )
 
                       
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company
  $ 4,827     $ (14,692 )   $ (27,887 )   $ (55,852 )
 
                       
15. CHANGES IN DEFICIT
The following is a reconciliation of total deficit, deficit attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company and equity attributable to noncontrolling interests from December 31, 2010 to September 30, 2011 (in thousands):
                                                                 
                                            Total              
                            Accumulated             Grubb & Ellis              
                    Additional     Other             Company              
    Common Stock     Paid-In     Comprehensive     Accumulated     Shareowners’     Noncontrolling     Total  
    Shares     Amount     Capital     Income (Loss)     Deficit     Deficit     Interests     Deficit  
Balance as of December 31, 2010
    70,076     $ 701     $ 409,943     $ 148     $ (478,881 )   $ (68,089 )   $ 9,130     $ (58,959 )
 
                                               
Vesting of share-based compensation
                3,153                   3,153             3,153  
Preferred dividends accrued
                (8,812 )                 (8,812 )           (8,812 )
Issuance of shares for vested phantom stock
    158                                            
Forfeiture of non-vested restricted shares
    (293 )     (3 )     (219 )                 (222 )           (222 )
Contributions from noncontrolling interests
                                        77       77  
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
                                        (1,194 )     (1,194 )
Deconsolidation of subsidiaries and sponsored mutual fund
                                        (7,036 )     (7,036 )
Change in unrealized loss on marketable securities
                      (255 )           (255 )           (255 )
Net loss
                            (27,632 )     (27,632 )     (977 )     (28,609 )
 
                                               
Comprehensive loss
                                  (27,887 )     (977 )     (28,864 )
 
                                               
Balance as of September 30, 2011
    69,941     $ 698     $ 404,065     $ (107 )   $ (506,513 )   $ (101,857 )   $     $ (101,857 )
 
                                               

 

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During the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, we granted 0 and 2,225,000 restricted shares of common stock, respectively.
16. OTHER RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Offering Costs and Other Expenses Related to Public Non-Traded REITs — We, through our consolidated subsidiaries Grubb & Ellis Apartment REIT Advisor, LLC and Grubb & Ellis Healthcare REIT II Advisor, LLC, bear certain general and administrative expenses in our capacity as advisor of Grubb & Ellis Apartment REIT, Inc. (now known as Apartment Trust of America, Inc.) (“Apartment REIT”) and Grubb & Ellis Healthcare REIT II, Inc. (“Healthcare REIT II”), respectively, and are reimbursed for these expenses. However, Apartment REIT and Healthcare REIT II will not reimburse us for any operating expenses that, in any four consecutive fiscal quarters, exceed the greater of 2.0% of average invested assets (as defined in their respective advisory agreements) or 25.0% of the respective REIT’s net income for such year, unless the board of directors of the respective REITs approve such excess as justified based on unusual or nonrecurring factors. All unreimbursable amounts, if any, are expensed by us. There were no unreimbursed amounts expensed by us during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010.
We also pay for the organizational, offering and related expenses on behalf of Healthcare REIT II’s initial offering and paid for such expenses related to Apartment REIT’s follow-on offering (through December 31, 2010 when we terminated our advisory and dealer-manager relationship with Apartment REIT). These organizational and offering expenses include all expenses (other than selling commissions and a dealer manager fee which represent 7.0% and 3.0% of the gross offering proceeds, respectively) to be paid by Healthcare REIT II and Apartment REIT in connection with these offerings. These expenses only become a liability of Healthcare REIT II and Apartment REIT to the extent other organizational and offering expenses do not exceed 1.0% of the gross proceeds of the offerings. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we have incurred expenses of $2.8 million and $2.7 million, respectively, in excess of 1.0% of the gross proceeds of Healthcare REIT II’s initial offering. On November 7, 2011, Healthcare REIT II terminated their advisory and dealer-manager relationship with us. See Note 1 for further information. We believe that the $2.8 million of expenses we have incurred related to organization and offering costs will be reimbursed from future gross proceeds raised by Healthcare REIT II. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we have incurred expenses of $2.5 million, in excess of 1.0% of the gross proceeds of Apartment REIT’s follow-on offering. During the nine months ending September 30, 2011, we wrote off approximately $2.5 million of fully reserved offering costs related to Apartment REIT’s follow-on offering. As of December 31, 2010, we have recorded an allowance for bad debt of approximately $2.5 million, related to Apartment REIT’s follow-on offering costs as we believe that such amounts may not be reimbursed.
Management Fees — We provide both transaction and management services to parties, which are related to one of our principal shareowners and directors (collectively, “Kojaian Companies”). In addition, we also pay asset management fees to Kojaian Companies related to properties we manage on their behalf. Revenue, including reimbursable expenses related to salaries, wages and benefits, earned by us for services rendered to Kojaian Companies, including joint ventures, officers and directors and their affiliates, net of asset management fees paid to Kojaian Companies, was $1.6 million and $1.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and $3.9 million and $3.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
In the second quarter of 2011, we began providing management services to the brother of one of our principal shareowners and directors. Revenue earned by us for services rendered was approximately $3,000 and $5,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011, respectively.
Office Leases — In December 2010, we entered into two office leases with landlords related to Kojaian Companies, providing for an annual average base rent of $414,000 and $404,000 over the ten-year terms of the leases which begin in April 2011 and November 2012, respectively.
Other Related Party — Our directors and officers, as well as officers, managers and employees have purchased, and may continue to purchase, interests in offerings made by our programs at a discount. The purchase price for these interests reflects the fact that selling commissions and marketing allowances will not be paid in connection with these sales. Our net proceeds from these sales made, net of commissions, will be substantially the same as the net proceeds received from other sales.

 

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17. INCOME TAXES
The components of income tax benefit (provision) from continuing operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 consisted of the following:
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     2011     2010  
Current:
                               
Federal
  $     $     $     $  
State
    85       (268 )     136       (281 )
Foreign
    (22 )     88       (49 )     (117 )
 
                       
 
    63       (180 )     87       (398 )
 
                       
Deferred:
                               
Federal
    3,593             3,635        
State
    482             439        
 
                       
 
    4,075             4,074        
 
                       
Total income tax benefit (provision)*
  $ 4,138     $ (180 )   $ 4,161     $ (398 )
 
                       
*  
The income tax benefit from continuing operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 is offset by the income tax (provision) from discontinued operations of ($4.3) million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011.
We recorded net prepaid taxes totaling approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively, comprised primarily of state tax refunds receivable, overpayments and state prepaid taxes.
As of December 31, 2010, federal net operating loss carryforwards in the amount of approximately $158.8 million were available to us, translating to a deferred tax asset of $55.6 million before valuation allowance as reported in our 2010 tax return filed on September 15, 2011. These NOLs will expire between 2027 and 2030. Approximately $77 million of these NOLs were generated by members of the Daymark group of companies. We have agreed with the buyer that these tax attributes will remain with the Daymark group after the sale.
We also have state net operating loss carryforwards from December 31, 2010 and previous periods totaling $227.2 million, translating to a deferred tax asset of $14.9 million before valuation allowances. These NOLs will begin to expire in 2017 and are exclusive of any state NOLs attributable to the Daymark group.
We regularly review our deferred tax assets for realizability and have established a valuation allowance based upon historical taxable income, projected future taxable income and the expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary differences to reduce our deferred tax assets to the amount that we believe is more likely than not to be realized. Due to the cumulative pre-tax book loss in the past three years and the inherent volatility of our business in recent years, we believe that this negative evidence supports the position that a valuation allowance is required pursuant to ASC 740, Income Taxes, (“Income Taxes Topic”). Management determined that as of September 30, 2011, $53.6 million of deferred tax assets do not satisfy the recognition criteria set forth in the Income Taxes Topic. Accordingly, a valuation allowance has been recorded for this amount. If released, the entire amount would result in a benefit to continuing operations. The current period net change in valuation allowance also takes into consideration the reduction in deferred tax assets of $69 million attributable to the Daymark group.
The differences between the total income tax benefit (provision) from continuing operations for financial statement purposes and the income taxes computed using the applicable federal income tax rate of 35.0% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 were as follows:
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     2011     2010  
Federal income taxes at the statutory rate
  $ 4,781     $ 3,778     $ 13,996     $ 15,014  
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
    403       1,105       1,238       1,970  
Foreign income taxes
    (22 )     89       (50 )     (117 )
Other
    163             371        
Non-deductible expenses
    (330 )     (691 )     (2,411 )     (1,273 )
Change in valuation allowance
    (857 )     (4,461 )     (8,983 )     (15,992 )
 
                       
Benefit (provision) for income taxes
  $ 4,138     $ (180 )   $ 4,161     $ (398 )
 
                       

 

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Item 2.  
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Forward-Looking Statements
This Interim Report contains statements that are not historical facts and constitute projections, forecasts or forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The statements are not guarantees of performance. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements in future periods to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or suggested by these statements. You can identify such statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements use words such as “believe,” “expect,” “should,” “strive,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate” and “anticipate” or similar expressions. When we discuss strategy or plans, we are making projections, forecasts or forward-looking statements. Actual results and stockholder’s value will be affected by a variety of risks and factors, including, without limitation, international, national and local economic conditions and real estate risks and financing risks and acts of terror or war. Many of the risks and factors that will determine these results and values are beyond our ability to control or predict. These statements are necessarily based upon various assumptions involving judgment with respect to the future. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Report. We expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates of revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in our expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Factors that could adversely affect our ability to obtain these results and value include, among other things: (i) the slowdown in the volume and the decline in the transaction values of sales and leasing transactions, (ii) the general economic downturn and recessionary pressures on business in general, (iii) a prolonged and pronounced recession in real estate markets and values, (iv) the unavailability of credit to finance real estate transactions in general, and our tenant-in-common programs in particular, (v) an increase in expenses related to new initiatives, investments in people, technology, and service improvements, (vi) the success of current and new investment programs, including our non-traded real estate investment trusts, (vii) the success of new initiatives and investments, (viii) an unfavorable outcome in the amount we may be required to pay in any known or unknown litigation dispute; (ix) the inability to attain expected levels of revenue, performance, brand equity in general, and in the current macroeconomic and credit environment in particular, and (x) other factors described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010, filed on March 31, 2011.
Overview and Background
We report our revenue by three operating business segments in accordance with the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 280, Segment Reporting, (“Segment Reporting Topic”). The three business segments are as follows: (1) Management Services, which includes property management, corporate facilities management, project management, client accounting, business services and engineering services for corporate occupier and real estate investor clients (2) Transaction Services, which comprises our real estate brokerage valuation and appraisal operations; and (3) Investment Management, which encompasses acquisition, financing, disposition and asset management services for our investment programs and dealer-manager services by our securities broker-dealer, which facilitates capital raising transactions for our REIT and other investment programs. Additional information on these business segments can be found in Note 9 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of this Report.
As a result of reclassifying Daymark to discontinued operations in the second quarter of 2011, our segment disclosure no longer includes a Daymark segment as all of the Daymark segment is included in discontinued operations. In addition, Daymark historically provided some Investment Management services. Accordingly, all revenues and expenses related to our Investment Management segment that were provided by Daymark are also included in discontinued operations.
On March 21, 2011, we announced that we had retained JMP Securities LLC as an advisor to explore strategic alternatives for the Company, including a potential merger or sale transaction.
On June 1, 2011, we entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of substantially all of the assets of our real estate investment fund business, Alesco Global Advisors (“Alesco”), to Lazard Asset Management LLC. Closing of the transaction occurred on September 23, 2011. We recognized a loss on the sale of Alesco, net of taxes, of approximately $1.8 million in the third quarter of 2011 after writing off the assets, liabilities and deficit balance in noncontrolling interests associated with Alesco and recognizing the costs related to such transaction.
On August 10, 2011, we entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of August 10, 2011 (the “Purchase Agreement”) by and between us and IUC-SOV, LLC (the “Purchaser”), an entity affiliated with Sovereign Capital Management and Infinity Real Estate. Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, we sold to Purchaser all of the shares of Daymark. The closing (the “Closing”) of the transactions contemplated by the Purchase Agreement (the “Transactions”) was completed on August 10, 2011.

 

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Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, we sold to Purchaser all of the outstanding shares of Daymark in exchange for (1) a cash payment of $0.5 million (the “Estimated Closing Cash Payment”) from Purchaser and (2) the assumption by Purchaser of $10.7 million of the net intercompany balance payable from us to NNN Realty Advisors, Inc. (“NNNRA”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Daymark.
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, immediately after the completion of the sale of the Daymark shares (and after NNNRA had become a wholly owned subsidiary of the Purchaser), the Company (1) paid NNNRA a $0.5 million cash payment and (2) issued to NNNRA a $5.0 million promissory note (the “Promissory Note”) in full satisfaction of the remaining portion of the Company’s net intercompany balance payable to NNNRA that was not assumed by Purchaser.
We recorded a gain on sale, net of taxes of $8.3 million, of approximately $17.2 million related to the disposition of Daymark in the third quarter of 2011, after recording the $5.0 million Promissory Note, writing off all of the assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests associated with Daymark and recognizing the transactions costs related to such transaction.
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, we have agreed to indemnify, subject to various limitations, Purchaser and its affiliates against any losses incurred or suffered by them as a result of (1) the breach of any representation or warranty made by us in the Purchase Agreement (subject to applicable survival limitations); (2) the breach of any covenant or agreement made by us in the Purchase Agreement; (3) any claim for brokerage or finder’s fees payable by Daymark or any of its subsidiaries in connection with the Transactions; (4) any liabilities or claims to the extent arising from the actions or omissions of (A) the Seller and its subsidiaries (other than Daymark and its subsidiaries) and (B) Daymark and its subsidiaries prior to the Closing, in each case, related to the office building at 7551 Metro Center Drive in Austin Texas (“Met Center 10”) (provided that indemnification for Met Center 10 (x) shall not cover any legal fees and expenses that were paid prior to Closing and (y) shall not cover any legal fees and expenses that have not been paid prior to the Closing except to the extent (and only to the extent) that they exceed $0.65 million); (5) certain liabilities under various employment agreements, plans and policies; or (6) fraud by Seller or any of its subsidiaries (other than Daymark or any of its subsidiaries).
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, the Purchaser has agreed to indemnify, subject to limitations, us and our affiliates against any losses incurred or suffered by them as a result of (1) the breach of any representation or warranty made by Purchaser in the Purchase Agreement (subject to applicable survival limitations); (2) the breach of any covenant or agreement made by Purchaser in the Agreement; (3) any liabilities of, obligations of or claims against us or any of our subsidiaries related to or arising from the business or operations of Daymark or any of its subsidiaries (whether relating to matters that occurred, arose or were asserted prior to the Closing or relating to matters that occur, arise or are asserted after the Closing), including existing and future litigation and claims, non-recourse carve-out guarantees and other guaranty obligations of us and our subsidiaries (provided that Purchaser shall not be obligated to indemnify Seller or its affiliates for losses of Seller or its affiliates that are the result of (x) certain litigation matters or (y) fraud by Seller); (4) the first $0.65 million of legal fees and expenses relating to Met Center 10 that have not been paid prior to the Closing; and (5) fraud by Purchaser or any of its subsidiaries. Among other indemnification limitations, the liability of Purchaser for indemnifying us and our affiliates for liabilities, obligations or claims related to or arising from the business or operations of Daymark or its subsidiaries as described in clause (3) above (if related solely to any fact, event or circumstances prior to the Closing) shall not exceed $7.5 million in the aggregate.
The $5.0 million principal amount of the Promissory Note issued by us to NNNRA becomes due and payable on August 10, 2016 (the “Maturity Date”). Interest accrues on the unpaid principal of the Promissory Note at a rate equal to 7.95% per annum. Accrued and unpaid interest on the Promissory Note is payable on the last day of each calendar quarter (commencing on September 30, 2011) and on the Maturity Date. We may prepay all or any portion of the Promissory Note at any time without premium or penalty.
Upon a change of control of the Company or certain Company recapitalization events, we will be obligated to prepay, within 10 business days following the date of such event, an amount equal to the sum of (A) an amount of principal (the “Mandatory Principal Prepayment Amount”) equal to the lesser of (i) $3.0 million and (ii) the then-outstanding principal amount of the Promissory Note plus (B) all accrued and unpaid interest on the Mandatory Principal Prepayment Amount.
Events of default under the Promissory Note include (i) a default by us in the payment of any interest or principal on the Promissory Note when due and such default continues for a period of 10 days after written notice from the holder and (ii) we become subject to any final and non-appealable writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process that would cause a material adverse effect on the financial condition of us and our subsidiaries, taken as a whole. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, the holder of the Promissory Note may declare and demand the Promissory Note immediately due and payable.

 

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In connection with the closing of the Transactions, we, Daymark and each of Daymark’s subsidiaries entered into an Intercompany Balance Settlement and Release Agreement dated August 10, 2011 (the “IBSRA”).
Pursuant to the IBSRA, Daymark and its subsidiaries released us from any and all claims, obligations, contracts, agreements, debts and liabilities that Daymark and its subsidiaries now have, have ever had or may in the future have against us arising at the time of or prior to the Closing or on account of or arising out of any matter, fact or event occurring at the time of or prior to the Closing, including (1) all rights and obligations under that certain Services Agreement dated as of January 1, 2011 by and among us, Daymark and other parties thereto (the “Services Agreement”), (2) all other contracts and arrangements between Daymark or any of its subsidiaries and us, (3) all intercompany payables and any other financial obligations or amounts owed to Daymark or any of its subsidiaries by us and (4) rights to indemnification or reimbursement from us, subject to various exceptions. Daymark and its subsidiaries also waived rights to coverage under D&O insurance policies maintained by us.
Pursuant to the IBSRA, we released Daymark and each of its subsidiaries from any and all claims, obligations, contracts, agreements, debts and liabilities that we now have, have ever had or may in the future have against Daymark or any of its subsidiaries arising at the time of or prior to the Closing or on account of or arising out of any matter, fact or event occurring at the time of or prior to the Closing, including (1) all rights and obligations under the Services Agreement, (2) all other contracts and arrangements between us and Daymark or any of its subsidiaries, (3) all intercompany payables and any other financial obligations or amounts owed to us by Daymark or any of its subsidiaries and (4) rights to indemnification or reimbursement from Daymark or any of its subsidiaries, subject to various exceptions.
Critical Accounting Policies
A discussion of our critical accounting policies, which include principles of consolidation, revenue recognition, impairment of long-lived assets, deferred taxes, and insurance and claims reserves, can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010. Except as noted in Note 1 of the Consolidated Financial Statements that are a part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, there have been no material changes to these policies in 2011.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Overview
We reported revenue of $128.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared with revenue of $129.0 million for the same period in 2010. The decrease was primarily the result of a decrease in Management Services revenue of $8.2 million and a decrease in Investment Management revenue of $0.5 million offset by an increase in Transaction Services revenue of $8.4 million. The decrease in our Management Services revenue as compared to the prior year period is primarily attributed to a decrease in reimbursable revenue. The increase in our Transaction Services revenue can be attributed to increased sales and appraisal transactions.
The income available to Grubb & Ellis Company for the third quarter of 2011 was $5.0 million After the accrual of preferred stock dividends of $3.0 million and income allocated to participating shareowners of $1.0 million, the net income available to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners for the three months ended September 30, 2011 was $0.9 million, or $0.01 per diluted share. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”) was negative $0.4 million for the third quarter of 2011 as shown in Adjusted EBITDA table included in the Non-GAAP Financials Measures section of this Item 2.
We reported revenue of $378.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared with revenue of $372.4 million for the same period in 2010. The increase was primarily the result of an increase in Transaction Services revenue of $34.7 million and an increase in Investment Management revenue of $5.6 million offset by a decrease in Management Services revenue of $33.8 million. The increase in our Investment Management revenue resulted from more acquisitions in 2011, as $237.3 million of acquisitions were closed in 2011 compared to $138.0 million of acquisitions in 2010. The increase in our Transaction Services revenue can be attributed to increased sales and appraisal transactions. The decrease in our Management Services revenue as compared to the prior year period is primarily attributed to a decrease in reimbursable revenue.
The loss attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 was $27.6 million. After the accrual of preferred stock dividends of $8.8 million, the net loss attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 was $36.4 million, or $0.55 per diluted share. Adjusted EBITDA was negative $11.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 as shown in Adjusted EBITDA table included in the Non-GAAP Financials Measures section of this Item 2.

 

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Three Months Ended September 30, 2011 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2010
The following summarizes comparative results of operations for the periods indicated.
                                 
    Three Months Ended        
    September 30,     Change  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     $     %  
Revenue
                               
Management services
  $ 57,110     $ 65,351     $ (8,241 )     (12.6 )%
Transaction services
    68,322       59,907       8,415       14.0  
Investment management
    3,260       3,763       (503 )     (13.4 )
 
                         
Total revenue
    128,692       129,021       (329 )     (0.3 )
 
                         
Operating Expense
                               
Compensation costs
    121,362       120,796       566       0.5  
General and administrative
    15,976       16,129       (153 )     (0.9 )
Provision for doubtful accounts
    736       627       109       17.4  
Depreciation and amortization
    2,026       1,660       366       22.0  
Interest
    2,372       758       1,614       212.9  
 
                         
Total operating expense
    142,472       139,970       2,502       1.8  
 
                         
Operating Loss
    (13,780 )     (10,949 )     (2,831 )     (25.9 )
 
                         
Other Income (Expense)
                               
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities
          (204 )     204       100.0  
Interest income
    43       12       31       258.3  
Other income
          454       (454 )     (100.0 )
 
                         
Total other income
    43       262       (219 )     (83.6 )
 
                         
Loss from continuing operations before income tax benefit (provision)
    (13,737 )     (10,687 )     (3,050 )     (28.5 )
Income tax benefit (provision)
    4,138       (180 )     4,318       2,398.9  
 
                         
Loss from continuing operations
    (9,599 )     (10,867 )     1,268       11.7  
 
                         
Discontinued operations
                               
Loss from discontinued operations — net of taxes
    (980 )     (4,449 )     3,469       78.0  
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations — net of taxes
    15,371             15,371        
 
                         
Total income (loss) from discontinued operations
    14,391       (4,449 )     18,840       423.5  
 
                         
Net income (loss)
    4,792       (15,316 )     20,108       131.3  
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (198 )     (511 )     313       61.3  
 
                         
Income available (loss attributable) to Grubb & Ellis Company
    4,990       (14,805 )     19,795       133.7  
Preferred stock dividends
    (3,018 )     (2,897 )     (121 )     (4.2 )
Income allocated to participating shareowners
    (1,023 )           (1,023 )      
 
                         
Income available (loss attributable) to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ 949     $ (17,702 )   $ 19,674       111.1 %
 
                         
Revenue
Management Services Revenue
Management Services revenue decreased $8.2 million, or 12.6%, to $57.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $65.4 million for the same period in 2010 due primarily to a decrease in reimbursable or pass through revenue of $7.5 million. As of September 30, 2011, we managed approximately 222.7 million square feet of commercial real estate property, including 0.2 million square feet of the Daymark portfolio compared to 247.4 million square feet of property as of September 30, 2010 (which included 22.2 million square feet of the Daymark portfolio). As a result of the sale of Daymark, as of September 30, 2011 GEMS only manages 0.2 million square feet of the Daymark portfolio. In addition, GEMS began servicing an approximately 10.0 million square foot facilities management contract during the first quarter of 2011.

 

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Transaction Services Revenue
Transaction Services revenue increased $8.4 million, or 14.0%, to $68.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $59.9 million for the same period in 2010 due to increased sales transaction volume and values as a result of increased broker productivity and the recovering real estate market. Leasing activity represented approximately 65% of the total sales and leasing revenue of $54.5 million in 2011, while sales accounted for 35% of total sales and leasing revenue. In 2010, the revenue breakdown was 67% leasing, and 33% sales of total sales and leasing revenue of $53.8 million. As of September 30, 2011, we had 871 brokers in owned offices, down from 1,006 as of December 31, 2010. Other revenue was $13.8 million and $6.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and includes $5.9 million of revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2011 related to our appraisal and valuation business compared to $0.7 million of revenue in the prior year period. Appraisal and valuation revenue increased approximately 22.9% sequentially from the second quarter of 2011 of $4.8 million.
We expect our Transaction Services revenue to be relatively flat in the fourth quarter of 2011 as compared to the fourth quarter of 2010 as a result of a decrease in our broker headcount combined with an increase in cycle time for investment sales which began in third quarter of 2011. These factors will be offset with year over year growth in our appraisal and valuation revenue.
Investment Management Revenue
Investment Management revenue decreased $0.5 million, or 13.4%, to $3.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $3.8 million for the same period in 2010. Investment Management revenue reflects revenue generated through the fee structure of our non-traded REIT program, Healthcare REIT II, and for the three months ended September 30, 2011, includes acquisition fees of $0.5 million, broker dealer revenue of $1.6 million and management fees of $1.0 million. Key drivers of this business are the dollar value of equity raised, the amount of transactions that are consummated and the amount of assets under management.
Acquisition fees decreased $2.2 million, or 81.5%, to $0.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $2.7 million for the same period in 2010 due to fewer acquisitions in the third quarter of 2011. We closed $19.3 million in acquisitions for Healthcare REIT II in the third quarter of 2011 compared to $97.7 million in the third quarter of 2010.
Management fees increased $0.8 million, or 400.0%, to $1.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $0.2 million for the same period in 2010, which primarily reflects the increase in Healthcare REIT II assets under management. As of September 30, 2011, we had approximately $430.8 million of assets under management compared to $138.0 million of assets under management as of September 30, 2010.
Broker dealer revenue increased $0.7 million, or 87.5%, to $1.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $0.8 million for the same period in 2010 as a result of an increase in equity raised during the three months ended September 30, 2011. In total, $98.8 million in equity was raised for Healthcare REIT II for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared with $33.6 million in the same period in 2010.
Operating Expense Overview
Operating expenses increased $2.5 million, or 1.8%, to $142.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $140.0 million for the same period in 2010. This increase primarily reflects an increase in variable compensation costs of $0.6 million, an increase in depreciation and amortization of $0.3 million and an increase in interest expense of $1.6 million.
Compensation Costs
Compensation costs increased approximately $0.6 million, or 0.5%, to $121.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to approximately $120.8 million for the same period in 2010 due to increases in transaction commissions and related costs paid to our brokerage professionals of $2.5 million offset by decreases in reimbursable salaries, wages and benefits of $7.6 million. Other compensation costs increased by $0.5 million as a result of $2.8 million in costs incurred to support growth initiatives of which $2.6 million related to the appraisal business and the remainder related to new offices and product lines primarily in the brokerage business, partially offset by management’s cost saving efforts. In addition, severance, retention and related charges increased by $6.0 million due to retention charges of $6.9 million offset by a decrease in severance charges of $0.9 million. Share-based compensation decreased $0.8 million as a result of fully vested restricted stock and phantom stock awards. The following table summarizes compensation costs by segment for the periods indicated. We expect transaction commissions and related costs as a percentage of revenue in the Transaction Services segment to be approximately 5% higher than historical levels in the fourth quarter of 2011 as a result of retention programs which have been put in place through the close of a strategic transaction.

 

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    Three Months Ended        
    September 30,     Change  
    2011     2010     $     %  
Management Services
                               
Compensation costs
  $ 9,631     $ 8,260     $ 1,371       16.6 %
Transaction commissions and related costs
    2,751       3,625       (874 )     (24.1 )
Reimbursable salaries, wages and benefits
    38,392       45,975       (7,583 )     (16.5 )
 
                         
Total
    50,774       57,860       (7,086 )     (12.2 )
Transaction Services
                               
Compensation costs
    13,702       13,094       608       4.6  
Transaction commissions and related costs
    43,150       39,927       3,223       8.1  
 
                         
Total
    56,852       53,021       3,831       7.2  
Investment Management
                               
Compensation costs
    1,894       2,436       (542 )     (22.2 )
Transaction commissions and related costs
    1,023       795       228       28.7  
 
                         
Total
    2,917       3,231       (314 )     (9.7 )
Compensation costs related to corporate overhead
    3,133       4,106       (973 )     (23.7 )
Severance, retention and related charges
    6,911       949       5,962       628.2  
Share-based compensation
    775       1,629       (854 )     (52.4 )
 
                         
Total compensation costs
  $ 121,362     $ 120,796     $ 566       0.5 %
 
                         
General and Administrative
General and administrative expense decreased approximately $0.1 million, or 0.9%, to $16.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $16.1 million for the same period in 2010.
General and administrative expense was 12.4% of total revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared with 12.5% for the same period in 2010.
Provision for Doubtful Accounts
Provision for doubtful accounts increased approximately $0.1 million, or 17.4%, to $0.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $0.6 million for the same period in 2010 primarily due to an increase in the provision for reserves on advances made to brokers and Transaction Services and Management Services aged receivables.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense increased approximately $0.3 million, or 22.0%, to $2.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to approximately $1.7 million for the same period in 2010. Included in depreciation and amortization expense for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 was $0.9 million and $0.8 million, respectively, for amortization of identified intangible assets.
Interest Expense
Interest expense increased approximately $1.6 million, or 212.9%, to $2.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $0.8 million for the same period in 2010. The increase in interest expense is primarily related to an increase of $1.3 million related to interest expense, amortization of the debt discount and amortization of loan fees related to the $18.0 million borrowing on our Credit Facility in the second quarter of 2011 in addition to a $0.1 million fair market value adjustment related to our warrant derivative liability.
Other Income (Expense)
Other income for the three months ended September 30, 2011 includes $43,000 of interest income. Other expense for the three months ended September 30, 2010 includes $0.2 million in equity in losses related to our investment in a joint venture, $12,000 of interest income and a $0.5 million gain on remeasurement of our previously held 40% interest in a regional commercial real estate services company as a result of the acquisition of the remaining 60% interest in July 2010.
Discontinued Operations
On August 10, 2011, we completed the sale of Daymark. On September 23, 2011, we completed the sale of Alesco.

 

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In accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment, (“Property, Plant, and Equipment Topic”), discontinued operations for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 includes the net loss of Daymark and Alesco operations. For the three months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, loss from discontinued operations was $1.0 million and $4.4 million, respectively. In addition, we recognized a net gain on sale of Daymark and Alesco of $15.4 million in the third quarter of 2011.
Income Tax
We recognized a tax benefit from continuing operations of $4.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to a tax expense of ($0.2) million for the same period in 2010. In 2011 and 2010, the reported effective income tax rates were 30.29% and (1.68%), respectively. The benefit in continuing operations is fully offset by income taxes charged to discontinued operations as described in ASC 740, Income Taxes, (“Income Taxes Topic”). The 2011 and 2010 effective tax rates include the effect of valuation allowances recorded against deferred tax assets to reflect our assessment that it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Our deferred tax assets are primarily attributable to net operating losses and share-based compensation. (See Note 17 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of this Report for additional information.)
Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests decreased by $0.3 million, or 61.3%, to $0.2 million during the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests of $0.5 million for the same period in 2010. The decrease is primarily related to a decrease in real estate related impairments recorded at one of Daymark’s consolidated VIEs.
Income Available (Loss Attributable) to Grubb & Ellis Company
As a result of the above items, we recognized income of $5.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, compared to a loss of $14.8 million for the same period in 2010.
Income Available (Loss Attributable) to Grubb & Ellis Company Common Shareowners
We accrued $3.0 million in preferred stock dividends during the three months ended September 30, 2011 and allocated income to participating shareowners of $1.0 million resulting in income available to our common shareowners of $0.9 million, or $0.01 per diluted share, compared to a loss attributable to our common shareowners of $17.7 million, or $0.27 per diluted share, for the same period in 2010.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010
The following summarizes comparative results of operations for the periods indicated.
                                 
    Nine Months Ended        
    September 30,     Change  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     $     %  
Revenue
                               
Management services
  $ 174,068     $ 207,909     $ (33,841 )     (16.3 )%
Transaction services
    191,588       156,824       34,764       22.2  
Investment management
    13,249       7,656       5,593       73.1  
 
                         
Total revenue
    378,905       372,389       6,516       1.7  
 
                         
Operating Expense
                               
Compensation costs
    352,003       358,532       (6,529 )     (1.8 )
General and administrative
    52,456       47,870       4,586       9.6  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    4,543       2,429       2,114       87.0  
Depreciation and amortization
    6,088       4,974       1,114       22.4  
Interest
    4,060       1,262       2,798       221.7  
 
                         
Total operating expense
    419,150       415,067       4,083       1.0  
 
                         
Operating Loss
    (40,245 )     (42,678 )     2,433       5.7  
 
                         
Other Income (Expense)
                               
Equity in losses of unconsolidated entities
    71       (587 )     658       112.1  
Interest income
    109       122       (13 )     (10.7 )
Other income
          454       (454 )     (100.0 )
 
                         
Total other income (expense)
    180       (11 )     191       1,734.4  
 
                         
Loss from continuing operations before income tax benefit (provision)
    (40,065 )     (42,689 )     2,624       6.1  
Income tax benefit (provision)
    4,161       (398 )     4,559       1,145.5  
 
                         
Loss from continuing operations
    (35,904 )     (43,087 )     7,183       16.7  
 
                         
Discontinued operations
                               
Loss from discontinued operations — net of taxes
    (8,076 )     (15,476 )     7,400       47.8  
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations — net of taxes
    15,371             15,371        
 
                         
Total income (loss) from discontinued operations
    7,295       (15,476 )     22,771       147.1  
 
                         
Net loss
    (28,609 )     (58,563 )     29,954       51.1  
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (977 )     (2,518 )     1,541       61.2  
 
                         
Loss attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company
    (27,632 )     (56,045 )     28,413       50.7  
Preferred stock dividends
    (8,812 )     (8,691 )     (121 )     (1.4 )
 
                         
Loss attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company common shareowners
  $ (36,444 )   $ (64,736 )   $ 28,292       43.7 %
 
                         

 

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Revenue
Management Services Revenue
Management Services revenue decreased $33.8 million, or 16.3%, to $174.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $207.9 million for the same period in 2010 due primarily to a decrease in reimbursable or pass through revenue of $29.4 million. As of September 30, 2011, we managed approximately 222.7 million square feet of commercial real estate property, including 0.2 million square feet of the Daymark portfolio compared to 274.4 million square feet of property as of September 30, 2010 (which included 22.2 million square feet of the Daymark portfolio). As a result of the sale of Daymark, as of September 30, 2011 GEMS only manages 0.2 million square feet of the Daymark portfolio. In addition, GEMS began servicing an approximately 10.0 million square foot facilities management contract during the first quarter of 2011.
Transaction Services Revenue
Transaction Services revenue increased $34.8 million, or 22.2%, to $191.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $156.8 million for the same period in 2010 due to increased sales transaction volume and values as a result of increased broker productivity and the recovering real estate market. Leasing activity represented approximately 64% of the total sales and leasing revenue of $153.8 million in 2011, while sales accounted for 36% of total sales and leasing revenue. In 2010, the revenue breakdown was 71% leasing, and 29% sales of total sales and leasing revenue of $134.3 million. As of September 30, 2011, we had 871 brokers in owned offices, down from 1,006 as of December 31, 2010. Other revenue was $37.8 million and $22.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and includes $13.3 million of revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 related to our appraisal and valuation business compared to $2.5 million of revenue in the prior year period. Appraisal and valuation revenue has been steadily increasing as a result of the launch of our new Landauer appraisal business late in the third quarter of 2010.
We expect our Transaction Services revenue to be relatively flat in the fourth quarter of 2011 as compared to the fourth quarter of 2010 as a result of a decrease in our broker headcount combined with an increase in cycle time for investment sales which began in third quarter of 2011. These factors will be offset with year over year growth in our appraisal and valuation revenue.
Investment Management Revenue
Investment Management revenue increased $5.5 million, or 73.1%, to $13.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $7.7 million for the same period in 2010. Investment Management revenue reflects revenue generated through the fee structure of our non-traded REIT programs and for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, includes acquisition fees of $6.5 million, broker dealer revenue of $4.1 million and management fees of $2.3 million. Key drivers of this business are the dollar value of equity raised, the amount of transactions that are consummated and the amount of assets under management.
Acquisition fees increased $2.7 million, or 71.1%, to $6.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $3.8 million for the same period in 2010 due to more acquisitions in 2011. We closed $237.3 million in acquisitions for Healthcare REIT II in 2011 compared to $138.0 million in 2010.
Management fees increased $2.0 million, or 666.7%, to $2.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $0.3 million for the same period in 2010, which primarily reflects the increase in Healthcare REIT II assets under management. As of September 30, 2011, we had approximately $430.8 million of assets under management compared to $138.0 million of assets under management as of September 30, 2010.

 

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Broker dealer revenue increased $1.8 million, or 78.3%, to $4.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $2.3 for the same period in 2010 as a result of an increase in equity raised during the nine months ended September 30, 2011. In total, $239.0 million in equity was raised for Healthcare REIT II for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared with $89.1 million in the same period in 2010.
Operating Expense Overview
Operating expenses increased $4.1 million, or 1.0%, to $419.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $415.1 million for the same period in 2010. This increase primarily reflects an increase in general and administrative expenses of $4.6 million, an increase in the provision for doubtful accounts of $2.1 million, an increase in depreciation and amortization of $1.1 million and an increase in interest expense of $2.8 million offset by a decrease in variable compensation costs of $6.5 million.
Compensation Costs
Compensation costs decreased approximately $6.5 million, or 1.8%, to $352.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to approximately $358.5 million for the same period in 2010 due to decreases in reimbursable salaries, wages and benefits of $29.1 million offset by increases in transaction commissions and related costs paid to our brokerage professionals of $17.3 million as a result of increased sales activity. Other compensation costs increased by a net $3.9 million as a result of approximately $10.3 million in costs incurred to support growth initiatives of which $8.1 million related to the appraisal business and the remainder related to new offices and product lines primarily in the brokerage business, partially offset by management’s cost saving efforts. In addition, severance, retention and related charges increased by $5.7 million due to retention charges of $8.5 million offset by a decrease in severance charges of $2.8 million. Share-based compensation decreased $4.3 million as a result of fully vested restricted stock and phantom stock awards. The following table summarizes compensation costs by segment for the periods indicated. We expect transaction commissions and related costs as a percentage of revenue in the Transaction Services segment to be approximately 5% higher than historical levels in the fourth quarter of 2011 as a result of retention programs which have been put in place through the close of a strategic transaction.
                                 
    Nine Months Ended        
    September 30,     Change  
    2011     2010     $     %  
Management Services
                               
Compensation costs
  $ 28,503     $ 27,569     $ 934       3.4 %
Transaction commissions and related costs
    9,376       14,020       (4,644 )     (33.1 )
Reimbursable salaries, wages and benefits
    116,235       145,354       (29,119 )     (20.0 )
 
                         
Total
    154,114       186,943       (32,829 )     (17.6 )
Transaction Services
                               
Compensation costs
    44,092       35,270       8,822       25.0  
Transaction commissions and related costs
    123,605       102,325       21,280       20.8  
 
                         
Total
    167,697       137,595       30,102       21.9  
Investment Management
                               
Compensation costs
    6,058       7,567       (1,509 )     (19.9 )
Transaction commissions and related costs
    2,778       2,145       633       29.5  
 
                         
Total
    8,836       9,712       (876 )     (9.0 )
Compensation costs related to corporate overhead
    8,737       13,138       (4,401 )     (33.5 )
Severance, retention and related charges
    9,466       3,717       5,749       154.7  
Share-based compensation
    3,153       7,427       (4,274 )     (57.5 )
 
                         
Total compensation costs
  $ 352,003     $ 358,532     $ (6,529 )     (1.8 )%
 
                         
General and Administrative
General and administrative expense increased approximately $4.6 million, or 9.6%, to $52.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $47.9 million for the same period in 2010 primarily due $4.4 million in increases related to our growth initiatives.

 

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General and administrative expense was 13.8% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared with 12.9% for the same period in 2010.
Provision for Doubtful Accounts
Provision for doubtful accounts increased approximately $2.1 million, or 87.0%, to $4.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $2.4 million for the same period in 2010 primarily due to an increase in the provision for reserves on advances made to brokers and Transaction Services and Management Services aged receivables.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense increased approximately $1.1 million, or 22.4%, to $6.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to approximately $5.0 million for the same period in 2010. Included in depreciation and amortization expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 was $2.9 million and $2.3 million, respectively, for amortization of identified intangible assets.
Interest Expense
Interest expense increased approximately $2.8 million, or 221.7%, to $4.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to $1.3 million for the same period in 2010. The increase in interest expense is primarily related to an increase of $0.9 million related to our Convertible Notes issued in May 2010, an increase of $1.9 million related to interest expense, amortization of the debt discount and amortization of loan fees related to the $18.0 million borrowing on our Credit Facility in the second quarter of 2011 offset by a $0.3 million fair market value adjustment related to our warrant derivative liability.
Other Income (Expense)
Other income for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 includes $71,000 in equity in earnings related to our investment in a joint venture that we separated from in the second quarter of 2011 and $0.1 million of interest income. Other expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 includes $0.6 million in equity in losses related to our investment in a joint venture, $0.1 million of interest income and a $0.5 million gain on remeasurement of our previously held 40% interest in a regional commercial real estate services company as a result of the acquisition of the remaining 60% interest in July 2010.
Discontinued Operations
On August 10, 2011, we completed the sale of Daymark. On September 23, 2011, we completed the sale of Alesco.
In accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment, (“Property, Plant, and Equipment Topic”), discontinued operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010 includes the net loss of Daymark and Alesco operations. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, loss from discontinued operations was $8.1 million and $15.5 million, respectively. In addition, we recognized a net gain on sale of Daymark and Alesco of $15.4 million in the third quarter of 2011.
Income Tax
We recognized a tax benefit from continuing operations of $4.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to a tax expense of ($0.4) million for the same period in 2010. In 2011 and 2010, the reported effective income tax rates were 10.40% and (0.93%), respectively. The benefit in continuing operations is fully offset by income taxes charged to discontinued operations as described in the Income Taxes Topic. The 2011 and 2010 effective tax rates include the effect of valuation allowances recorded against deferred tax assets to reflect our assessment that it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Our deferred tax assets are primarily attributable net operating losses and share-based compensation. (See Note 17 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of this Report for additional information.)
Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests decreased by $1.5 million, or 61.2%, to $1.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests of $2.5 million for the same period in 2010. The decrease is primarily related to a decrease in provision for doubtful accounts and real estate related impairments recorded at two of Daymark’s consolidated VIEs.

 

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Loss Attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company
As a result of the above items, we recognized a loss of $27.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to a loss of $56.0 million for the same period in 2010.
Loss Attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company Common Shareowners
We accrued $8.8 million in preferred stock dividends during the nine months ended September 30, 2011 resulting in a loss attributable to our common shareowners of $36.4 million, or $0.55 per diluted share, compared to a loss attributable to our common shareowners of $64.7 million, or $1.00 per diluted share, for the same period in 2010.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures of performance. EBITDA provides an indicator of economic performance that is unaffected by debt structure, changes in interest rates, changes in effective tax rates or the accounting effects of capital expenditures and acquisitions because EBITDA excludes net interest expense, interest income, income taxes, depreciation, amortization, discontinued operations and impairments related to goodwill and intangible assets.
We use Adjusted EBITDA as an internal management measure for evaluating performance and as a significant component when measuring performance under employee incentive programs. Management considers Adjusted EBITDA an important supplemental measure of our performance and believes that it is frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties in the evaluation of companies in our industry, some of which present Adjusted EBITDA when reporting their results. Management also believes that Adjusted EBITDA is a useful tool for measuring its ability to meet future capital expenditures and working capital requirements.
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are not a substitute for GAAP net income or cash flow and do not provide a measure of our ability to fund future cash requirements. Other companies may calculate EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differently than we have and, therefore, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA have material limitations as a comparative performance measure. The following tables reconcile EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA with the net loss attributable to Grubb & Ellis Company for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010.
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,     September 30,     September 30,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010     2011     2010  
Net income (loss)
  $ 4,792     $ (15,316 )   $ (28,609 )   $ (58,563 )
Discontinued operations
    (14,391 )     4,449       (7,295 )     15,476  
 
                       
Net loss from continuing operations
    (9,599 )     (10,867 )     (35,904 )     (43,087 )
Interest expense
    2,372       758       4,060       1,262  
Interest income
    (43 )     (12 )     (109 )     (122 )
Depreciation and amortization
    2,026       1,660       6,088       4,974  
Taxes
    (4,138 )     180       (4,161 )     398  
 
                       
EBITDA from continuing operations
    (9,382 )     (8,281 )     (30,026 )     (36,575 )
Charges related to sponsored programs
          239       1,924       973  
Share-based compensation
    775       1,629       3,153       7,427  
Amortization of signing bonuses
    1,263       1,730       4,315       5,279  
Severance, retention and related charges
    6,911       949       9,466       3,717  
Other
          (454 )           (454 )
 
                       
Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations
  $ (433 )   $ (4,188 )   $ (11,168 )   $ (19,633 )
 
                       
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business for the twelve month period following the date of these financial statements.

 

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On March 21, 2011, the Company announced that it had engaged an external advisor to explore strategic alternatives, including the potential sale or merger of the Company. During this period, the board of directors also determined, as permitted, not to declare the March 31, 2011, June 30, 2011 or September 30, 2011 quarterly dividends to holders of its 12% Cumulative Participating Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock.
On April 15, 2011, we entered into an $18.0 million credit facility with ColFin GNE Loan Funding, LLC, an affiliate of Colony Capital LLC (“Colony”), as further described in Commitments, Contingencies and Other Contractual Obligations below. The Colony credit facility, which addressed the Company’s liquidity needs resulting from operating losses relating to the seasonal nature of the real estate services businesses, investments made in growth initiatives and increased legal expenses related to its Daymark subsidiary, matures on March 1, 2012. On October 16, 2011, we entered into a second amendment (“Credit Facility Amendment No. 2”) increasing from $18.0 million to $28.0 million the size of our Credit Facility. Pursuant to the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, C-III Investments LLC (“C-III”) agreed to become a lender under the Credit Facility and to provide an additional $10.0 million term loan (the “Incremental Term Loan”) under the existing terms and conditions of the Credit Facility, as amended by Credit Facility Amendment No. 2.
On August 10, 2011 we completed the sale of Daymark. Due in part to operating losses prior to the sale of Daymark and expenses incurred to complete the sale, we have, and may seek, additional financing prior to the completion of our review of strategic alternatives. It is anticipated that any strategic alternative would include provisions to extend, retire or refinance the Colony credit facility at or prior to maturity. If the Company is unable to extend, retire or refinance the Colony credit facility prior to maturity, it could create substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for the twelve month period following the date of these financial statements. We believe that upon completion of our strategic alternative process we will have sufficient liquidity to operate in the normal course over the next twelve month period.
Current Sources of Capital and Liquidity
We expect to meet our short-term liquidity needs, which may include losses from operations, repayment of our credit facility, principal repayments of mortgage debt in connection with recourse guarantee obligations, potential litigation losses, payment of fixed charges, investments in various real estate investor programs and capital expenditures, through cash on hand, cash flow from operations, our credit facility and proceeds from the potential issuance of equity securities, debt offerings and the potential sale of other assets.
In February 2011, we sold the note receivable we held from Apartment REIT to a third party for $6.1 million in net proceeds. In addition, we received approximately $2.8 million upon the completion of the sale of Alesco during the quarter ended September 30, 2011, from a combination of proceeds from the sale and liquidation of a portion of our marketable securities. We liquidated our remaining marketable securities in October 2011 and received $0.8 million in proceeds.
Long-Term Liquidity Needs
We expect to meet our long-term liquidity needs, which may include losses from operations, principal repayments of debt obligations, payment of fixed charges, investments in various real estate investor programs and capital expenditures, through current and retained cash flow earnings, proceeds from the potential issuance of debt or equity securities and the potential sale of other assets. We may seek to obtain new secured or unsecured lines of credit in the future, although we can provide no assurance that we will find financing on favorable terms or at all.
Factors That May Influence Future Sources of Capital and Liquidity
As further described under “Commitments, Contingencies and Other Contractual Obligations” below, we are involved in multiple legal proceedings and have certain contingent liabilities arising from guarantees and other contractual obligations. While the ultimate outcome and potential liabilities related to these commitments and contingencies is uncertain, adverse determinations and outcomes in these matters could result in material and adverse effects on the liquidity and assets of us or our subsidiaries.
Termination of Agreements with Grubb & Ellis Healthcare REIT II
On November 7, 2011, Grubb & Ellis Healthcare REIT II (“Healthcare REIT II”), a separate legal entity with an independent board of directors sponsored by us, terminated its advisory and dealer-manager relationships (collectively the “REIT agreements’) with various subsidiaries of Grubb & Ellis Company. The termination is effective immediately subject to a 60-day transition period. The termination of the REIT agreements could have a material adverse effect on our business, future results of operations and financial condition.

 

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We have received revenues totaling approximately $13.2 million from Healthcare REIT II for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. Based on the projected levels of capital we estimate will be raised for Healthcare REIT II during the 60-day transition period and the pipeline of property acquisitions expected to close, we currently estimate that we will be entitled to receive aggregate acquisition fees in excess of $6.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2011 and first quarter of 2012. In addition, we expect to receive property and asset management fees of approximately $1.1 million in the aggregate through the end of the transition period. The amount of capital to be raised and the timing and amount of property acquisitions that close are not within our control and uncertain, and as such the timing of cash flows may materially differ from these estimates.
As of September 30, 2011, we have incurred organizational and offering expenses of approximately $2.8 million in excess of 1.0% of the gross proceeds of the Healthcare REIT II offering which are included in “Accounts Receivable from Related Parties — net” on our consolidated balance sheet. While we currently expect to recover all unpaid reimbursements of expenses from Healthcare REIT II, such recovery may be subject to certain limitations and therefore the timing and ultimate collection of all such amounts are uncertain.
Should Healthcare REIT II fail to pay amounts that become due to us under the REIT Agreements, it could have a material adverse affect on our near term cash flows, results of operations and financial condition and create significant risk of our ability to continue as a going concern.
NYSE Listing
On April 7, 2011, we received written notice from NYSE Regulation, Inc. that the 30 trading-day average closing price of its common stock had fallen below $1.00 and as a consequence, we were no longer in compliance with the continued listing criteria of the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) relating to minimum average trading price. As of April 4, 2011, the Company’s 30 trading-day average closing price was $0.99 per share.
The NYSE’s continued listing standards require that we maintain an average market capitalization and shareowners’ equity of not less than $50.0 million and that our common stock, among other things, not have an average closing price of at least $1.00 over a consecutive thirty trading day period. As of September 30, 2011, we had a market capitalization and shareowner’s deficit of $29.4 million and $101.9 million, respectively, a stock price of $0.42 per share and a thirty day average of $0.53 per share. There can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain the minimum levels of market capitalization and shareowner’s equity and stock price as required by the NYSE. If we are unable to maintain compliance with the NYSE’s continued listing standard, our common stock will be delisted from the NYSE. As a result, we likely would have our common stock listed on another national exchange or quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board (“OTC BB”) in order to have our common stock continue to be traded on a public market. In order to have our common stock listed on another national exchange, we will need to effect a reverse stock split. However, there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain the required shareowner approval for such reverse stock split. Securities that trade on the OTC BB generally have less liquidity and greater volatility than securities that trade on the NYSE. Delisting from the NYSE and failure to register on another national exchange, of which there are no assurances, would trigger a “fundamental change” under the indenture for our Convertible Notes and allow the holders of the Convertible Notes to trigger a repurchase obligation by us of the Convertible Notes. We may not have sufficient funds to repurchase the Convertible Notes should such a fundamental change occur. Delisting from the NYSE may also preclude us from using certain state securities law exemptions, which could make it more difficult and expensive for us to raise capital in the future and more difficult for us to provide compensation packages sufficient to attract and retain top talent. In addition, because issuers whose securities trade on the OTC BB are not subject to the corporate governance and other standards imposed by the NYSE, and such issuers receive less news and analyst coverage, our reputation may suffer, which could result in a decrease in the trading price of our shares. The delisting of our common stock from the NYSE, therefore, could significantly disrupt the ability of investors to trade our common stock and could have a material adverse effect on us and the value and liquidity of our common stock.
As required by the NYSE, in order to maintain our listing, we were required to have our average share price return to at least the $1.00 price level by October 7, 2011. As of October 7, 2011, and through the date of this Quarterly Report, we have not cured this price deficiency. We have been in continuous dialogue with the NYSE regarding our continuing efforts to cure this deficiency, and at the present time the NYSE has agreed to continue to work with us on an interim basis as we take actions to cure this deficiency in connection with our strategic process or otherwise.
Our business operations, SEC reporting requirements and debt agreements are currently unaffected by our current NYSE status.
Preferred Stock
The Board of Directors determined, as permitted, not to declare a dividend on our 12% Preferred Stock, for the quarters ending March 31, 2011, June 30, 2011 and September 30, 2011. Since we have missed two consecutive quarterly dividend payments, the dividend rate will automatically be increased by 0.50% of the initial liquidation preference per share per quarter (up to a maximum amount of increase of 2% of the initial liquidation preference per share) until cumulative dividends have been paid in full. In addition, subject to certain limitations, in the event the dividends on the Preferred Stock are in arrears for six or more quarters, whether or not consecutive, holders representing a majority of the shares of Preferred Stock voting together as a class with holders of any other class or series of preferred stock upon which like voting rights have been conferred and are exercisable will be entitled to nominate and vote for the election of two additional directors to serve on the board of directors until all unpaid dividends with respect to the Preferred Stock and any other class or series of preferred stock upon which like voting rights have been conferred or are exercisable have been paid or declared and a sum sufficient for payment has been set aside therefore. Since the terms of the Preferred Stock provide for cumulative dividends, we have accrued the unpaid first and second quarter 2011 dividend payments of $3.00 per share per quarter and third quarter 2011 dividend payment of $3.125 per share on our Preferred Stock, which is included in Preferred Stock on our consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2011. As of September 30, 2011, the amount of accrued and unpaid dividends totaled $8.8 million.
Cash Flow
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2011 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2010
Net cash used in operating activities was $42.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $35.1 million for the same period in 2010. Net cash used in operating activities included a decrease in net loss of $30.0 million adjusted for decreases in non-cash reconciling items totaling $40.2 million, resulting in a net decrease of $10.2 million. In addition, there was a decrease in cash used in operating activities of $3.2 million due to positive working capital consisting of accounts payable and accrued expenses, accounts receivable from related parties, prepaid expenses and other assets and other liabilities.

 

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Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities was $1.6 million and ($0.9) million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, net cash provided by investing activities related primarily to the proceeds from the sale of the Apartment REIT note receivable of $6.1 million offset by purchases of property and equipment of $4.2 million. For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, net cash used in investing activities related primarily to proceeds from the repayment of advances to related parties net of advances to related parties of $4.2 million offset by purchases of marketable equity securities of $0.9 million, purchases of property and equipment of $2.5 million and acquisition of businesses of $2.1 million.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $13.4 million and $16.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, net cash provided by financing activities related primarily advances on the credit facility of $18.0 million offset by financing costs of $1.7 million, repayment of notes payable and capital lease obligations of $0.8 million, distributions to noncontrolling interests of $1.2 million and an increase in restricted cash of $1.0 million. For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, net cash provided by financing activities related primarily to the net cash proceeds of $29.9 million from the issuance of convertible notes offset by the payment of preferred dividends of $8.7 million and distributions to noncontrolling interests of $3.9 million.
Commitments, Contingencies and Other Contractual Obligations
Contractual Obligations — We lease office space throughout the United States through non-cancelable operating leases, which expire at various dates through June 30, 2020.
Colony Credit Facility — On April 15, 2011, we entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), by and among us, GEMS and Colony, for an $18.0 million secured credit facility (the “Credit Facility”). The terms of the Credit Facility included a payment to Colony of (i) a closing fee equal to 1.00% of the Credit Facility amount and (ii) warrants (the “Warrants”) exercisable to purchase 6,712,000 shares of our common stock, valued at $0.7 million. The Credit Facility was fully drawn upon as of May 16, 2011.
The Credit Facility matures on March 1, 2012 and has an initial interest rate of 11.00% per annum, increasing by an additional 0.50% at the end of each three-month period subsequent to the closing date of the Credit Facility for so long as any loans are outstanding. In lieu of making a cash interest payment, we have the option to accrue any due and payable interest under the Credit Facility and issue additional warrants (the “Additional Warrants”) based on a formula calculation. The loan is not subject to any required principal amortization payments during the term. As of September 30, 2011, we have issued 328,679 Additional Warrants.
The Credit Agreement contains customary representations and warranties, as well as customary events of default, in certain cases subject to negotiated periods to cure and exceptions, including but not limited to: failure to make certain payments when due, breach of covenants, breach of representations and warranties, certain insolvency proceedings, judgments and attachments and any change of control.
The Credit Agreement also contains various customary covenants that, in certain instances, restrict the ability of us and our subsidiaries to: (i) incur indebtedness; (ii) create liens on assets; (iii) engage in mergers or consolidations; (iv) engage in dispositions of assets; (v) make investments, loans, guarantees or advances; (vi) pay dividends and distributions with respect to, or repurchase, its outstanding capital stock; (vii) enter into sale and leaseback transactions; (viii) engage in transactions with affiliates; and (ix) change the nature of our business. In addition, the Credit Agreement requires (i) GEMS and its subsidiaries to maintain, as on the last day of each fiscal quarter, a minimum net worth as defined in the agreement of $20.0 million and (ii) the outstanding loan to remain in compliance with the defined borrowing base at the end of each fiscal month (subject to periods to cure).
As a condition to the entering into of the Credit Agreement, we, GEMS and certain of our other subsidiaries simultaneously entered into a Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated as of April 15, 2011 with Colony, in its capacity as administrative agent (the “Guarantee and Collateral Agreement”), pursuant to which each of our subsidiaries party thereto (other than GEMS) guaranteed the obligations of us and GEMS under the Credit Agreement and each of us and our subsidiaries party thereto granted a first priority security interest in substantially all of our assets.

 

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The Warrants have an exercise price equal to $0.01 per share and a maturity date of three years from the date of issuance (the “Expiration Date”), but are exercisable prior to the Expiration Date upon the satisfaction of certain events as set forth in the Warrants, including, but not limited to, if the volume weighted average price of our common stock equals or exceeds $1.10 ($0.71, as amended) for any consecutive 30 calendar day period prior to the date of exercise or upon the occurrence of a fundamental change in which the consideration received for each share of our common stock equals or exceeds $1.10 ($0.71, as amended). The Warrants are exercisable, at the option of the holder of such Warrant, (a) by paying the exercise price in cash, (b) pursuant to a “cashless exercise” of the Warrant or (iii) by reduction of the principal amount of loans under the Credit Facility payable to the holder of such Warrant, or by a combination of the foregoing methods. The number of shares of our common stock issuable upon exercise of the Warrants or Additional Warrants is subject to adjustment in certain cases. All Additional Warrants issued pursuant to the Credit Agreement shall contain the same terms as the Warrants.
On July 22, 2011, each of us and our wholly owned subsidiary, GEMS, entered into an amendment and consent agreement (the “Credit Facility Amendment”) with respect to our Credit Facility, an amendment to the commitment letter for the Credit Facility, between Colony and the Company (the “Credit Facility Commitment Letter Amendment”) and amendments to the outstanding common stock purchase warrants issued to Colony pursuant to the terms of the Credit Agreement (the “Warrant Agreement Amendments”, and together with the Credit Facility Amendment and the Commitment Letter Amendment, collectively, the “Amendment Documents”).
Pursuant to the Amendment Documents, among other things, Colony expressly acknowledged and consented to our currently anticipated sale of Daymark, and each of its wholly owned (direct and indirect) subsidiaries and the restructuring of the outstanding intercompany debt obligations owing by us to Daymark. The Amendment Documents also clarified the definition of net worth to include any loans included in such net worth calculation. The Amendment Documents also permanently eliminated Colony’s right of first offer to provide us with debt financing prior to it consummating or endeavoring to consummate any similar financing with a third-party. Additionally, the Amendment Documents amended the price at which any common stock purchase warrants issuable to Colony in lieu of cash interest from time to time payable under the Credit Agreement and the common stock purchase warrants previously issued to Colony pursuant to the Credit Agreement, become exercisable from $1.10 per share to $0.71 per share. In addition, if in connection with any financing arrangement, we issue any options, or other equity linked securities to purchase our common stock, with an exercise condition that is based on a share price that is lower than $0.71 per share (“Trigger Price”), then the Trigger Price shall be adjusted downward (but not upward) to such lower price without any further action on the part of any party.
We also entered into a Registration Rights Agreement (“Registration Rights Agreement”) with the holder of the Warrants, pursuant to which holders of the Warrants have the right to require us, subject to certain limitations, to effect the registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), of all or any portion of the shares of our common stock issued as a result of the exercise of all or a portion of the Warrants or the Additional Warrants. The Registration Rights Agreement contains piggy-back registration rights and demand registration rights with respect to the shares underlying the Warrants and the Additional Warrants.
On October 16, 2011, we entered into a second amendment (“Credit Facility Amendment No. 2”) increasing from $18.0 million to $28.0 million the size of our Credit Facility. Pursuant to the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, C-III Investments LLC (“C-III”) agreed to become a lender under the Credit Facility and to provide an additional $10.0 million term loan (the “Incremental Term Loan”) under the existing terms and conditions of the Credit Facility, as amended by Credit Facility Amendment No. 2.
In consideration of C-III providing the Incremental Term Loan and Colony consenting to the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, we entered into an exclusivity agreement (the “Exclusivity Agreement”) with Colony and C-III pursuant to which Colony and C-III have the exclusive right for a period of thirty days commencing on October 16, 2011, and subject to two consecutive thirty day extensions under certain circumstances, to pursue a strategic transaction with respect to the Company. In the event that Colony and C-III are diligently pursuing a strategic transaction with us at the end of each of the initial thirty day period (November 15, 2011) and the first thirty day extension (December 15, 2011), Colony and C-III shall have the right to extend the exclusivity period for an additional thirty days. We have been advised by representatives of C-III that they will be extending the exclusivity period for this initial 30 day period until at least December 15, 2011.
Notwithstanding such exclusivity, in the event we receive an unsolicited qualified offer from a third party during the exclusivity period, at any time subsequent to the sixtieth day of exclusivity we shall have the right to request that Colony and C-III match such unsolicited qualified offer within three business days, and if Colony and C-III fail to match such unsolicited qualified offer within three business days and the third party purchases all of the indebtedness and other outstanding obligations of the lenders under the amended Credit Facility, the Exclusivity Agreement shall automatically terminate and we may negotiate and enter into a transaction with such third party. In furtherance of the transactions contemplated by the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, C-III acquired $4.0 million of Colony’s interest in the Credit Facility, and an agreed upon share of the Existing Warrants. We are also obligated to pay the reasonable costs to effect the transactions contemplated by the Credit Facility Amendment No. 2, up to $0.2 million, and the reasonable costs of C-III under the Exclusivity Agreement, up to $1.0 million.

 

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Other than the Credit Facility borrowing described above, there have been no significant changes in our contractual obligations since December 31, 2010.
Claims and Lawsuits — We are involved in lawsuits relating to certain of the investment management offerings of our former affiliate, Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC (“GERI”), in particular, its TIC programs. These lawsuits allege a variety of claims in connection with these offerings, including mismanagement, breach of contract, negligence, fraud and breach of fiduciary duty, among other claims. Plaintiffs in these suits seek a variety of remedies, including rescission, actual and punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees and costs. The damages being sought are unspecified and to be determined at trial. It is difficult to predict the ultimate disposition of these lawsuits and our ultimate liability with respect to such claims and lawsuits. It is also difficult to predict the cost of defending these matters and to what extent claims will be covered by our existing insurance policies. In the event of an unfavorable outcome, the amounts we may be required to pay in the discharge of liabilities or settlements could have a material adverse effect on our cash flows, financial position and results of operations.
Met Center 10
One such matter relates to a TIC property known as Met Center 10, located in Austin, Texas. The Company and certain of its former and current subsidiaries have been involved in multiple legal proceedings relating to Met Center 10, including three actions pending in state court in Austin, Texas and an arbitration proceeding being conducted in California. The arbitration proceeding involves GERI, a subsidiary of Daymark, and is pending before the American Arbitration Association in Orange County, California captioned NNN Met Center 10 1, LLC, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC (the “Met 10 Arbitration”). A state court action involving GERI is pending in the District Court of Travis County, Texas captioned NNN Met Center 10, LLC v. Met Center Partners-6, Ltd., et al. (the “Met 10 Main Action”). Two additional state court actions involving the Company, GERI, and Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc. (“GEMS”) are pending in the District Court for Travis County, Texas captioned NNN Met Center 10-1, LLC v. Lexington Insurance Company, et al. and NNN Met Center 10, LLC v. Lexington Insurance Company, et al. (together, the “Met 10 Lexington Actions”).
As described above, under the Purchase Agreement, we agreed to indemnify Purchaser and its affiliates (including GERI) against liabilities, expenses, obligations, or claims related to Met Center 10, subject to certain limitations.
In the Met 10 Arbitration, TIC investors asserted, among other things, that GERI should bear responsibility for alleged diminution in the value of the property and their investments as a result of ground movement. The Met 10 Arbitration was bifurcated into two phases. In the first phase, the arbitrator ruled in favor of the TIC investors, finding, among other things, that the TIC investors had properly terminated the property management agreement for cause. In Phase 2 of the arbitration, the TICs asserted claims for damages against GERI arising from alleged breaches of the management agreement and other alleged wrongful acts in connection with the management of the Met Center 10 property and other alleged breaches of duty.
Before the beginning of the Phase 2 hearing, the TICs, GERI, and Lexington Insurance Company reached a settlement, which has been documented and executed by the parties, and which is awaiting court approval. The settlement is for $0.1 million, net of insurance recoveries. Among other things, under the terms of the settlement, GERI must pay $0.1 million to the TICs shortly after the settlement is approved by the court, and may be obligated to subsequently pay up to approximately $0.6 million in addition to the initial $0.1 million payment, depending upon the resolution of claims relating to Met Center 10 against parties other than GERI. The TICs are releasing all claims relating to Met Center 10 against, among others, us and GERI.
In the Met 10 Texas Action, GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC were pursuing claims against the developers and sellers of the property (the “Sellers”), the due diligence firm retained by GERI in connection with the purchase of the Met Center 10 property, and the engineering, construction, and design professionals who performed work relating to the Met Center 10 property (together with the due diligence firm, the “Professionals”) to recover damages arising from, among other things, ground movement. The Sellers and the Professionals were asserting counterclaims against GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC. GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, on the one hand, and the Sellers, on the other, have reached a settlement resolving all claims between them, which has been documented and executed by the parties. Under that settlement, GERI, its affiliates, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC are being released from all claims by the Sellers relating to Met Center 10. Neither GERI nor its affiliates (or NNN Met Center 10, LLC) are required to make any payments pursuant to the settlement with the Sellers. In addition, GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, on the one hand, and the Professionals, on the other hand, have reached a tentative settlement resolving all claims between them, which is in the process of being documented and approved. Under that settlement, GERI, its affiliates, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC are being released from all claims by the Professionals relating to Met Center 10. Neither GERI nor its affiliates (or NNN Met Center 10, LLC) are required to make any payments pursuant to the tentative settlement with the Professionals.

 

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In the Met 10 Lexington Actions, the TIC investors were asserting claims against former officers and employees of the Company and other defendants in connection with the negotiation and documentation of an insurance settlement relating to the Met Center 10 property, and an alleged misallocation and/or misappropriation of the proceeds of that settlement. In addition, Lexington Insurance Company asserted claims against NNN Met Center 10, LLC, the Company, GERI, and GEMS arising of the insurance settlement. Pursuant to the settlement of the Met 10 Arbitration described above, the TICs are releasing and dismissing certain claims against the former officers and employees of the Company, including claims that were being asserted in the Met 10 Lexington Actions, and Lexington is releasing and dismissing its claims against the Company, GERI, GEMS, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, including the claims Lexington was asserting in the Met 10 Lexington Actions.
TIC Program Exchange Litigation
GERI and Grubb & Ellis Company are defendants in an action filed on or about February 14, 2011 in the Superior Court of Orange County, California captioned S. Sidney Mandel, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC, et al. The plaintiffs allege that, in order to induce the plaintiffs to purchase $22.3 million in TIC investments that GERI (formerly known as Triple Net Properties, LLC) was syndicating, GERI offered to subsequently “repurchase” those investments and provide certain “put” rights under certain terms and conditions pursuant to a letter agreement executed between GERI and the plaintiffs. The plaintiffs allege that GERI has failed to honor its purported obligations under the letter agreement and have initiated suit for breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing and declaratory relief as to the rights and obligations of the parties under the letter agreement. By way of a first amended complaint, the plaintiffs are alleging that GERI is merely an inadequately capitalized instrumentality of Grubb & Ellis Company and that Grubb & Ellis Company should be held liable for acts and omissions of GERI. The plaintiffs are seeking damages totaling $26.5 million, attorneys’ fees and costs. We intend to vigorously defend these claims and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.
Under the Purchase Agreement, IUC-SOV, LLC agreed to indemnify and hold harmless us and our officers, directors, and affiliates against any liabilities of, obligations of or claims against us related to or arising from the businesses or operations of any “Acquired Company” (including GERI). By letter dated September 26, 2011, the Company made a demand, pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, that IUC-SOV, LLC indemnify and hold harmless us against any and all losses that may be incurred or suffered by us in connection with the Mandel action. IUC-SOV, LLC did not make any objection to that claim for indemnification.
We and GERI filed demurrers to the first amended complaint. The court sustained GERI’s demurrer and granted the plaintiffs leave to file an amended pleading. The court denied our demurrer. We intend to vigorously defend the claims asserted by the plaintiffs and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.
Durham Office Park
Grubb & Ellis Company and Grubb & Ellis Securities as well as various Daymark subsidiaries are defendants in an action filed on or about July 21, 2010 in North Carolina Business Court, Durham County Superior Court Division, captioned NNN Durham Office Portfolio I, LLC, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Company, et al. Plaintiffs invested more than $11 million for TIC interests in a commercial real estate project in Durham, North Carolina. Plaintiffs claim, among other things, that information regarding the intentions of the property’s anchor tenant to remain in occupancy was withheld and misrepresented. Plaintiffs have asserted claims for breach of contract, negligence, negligent misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, unfair and deceptive trade practices and conspiracy. We intend to vigorously defend these claims and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.
We are involved in various claims and lawsuits arising out of the ordinary conduct of our business, many of which may not be covered by our insurance policies. In the opinion of management, in the event of an unfavorable outcome, the amounts we may be required to pay in the discharge of liabilities or settlements could have a material adverse effect on our cash flows, financial position and results of operations. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for these matters.

 

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Guarantees — Historically Daymark provided non-recourse carve-out guarantees or indemnities with respect to loans for properties owned or under the management of Daymark. As of September 30, 2011, subsequent to the sale of Daymark, there were six properties under the management of Daymark for which we continue to have non-recourse carve-out loan guarantees or indemnities of approximately $120.7 million in total principal outstanding (of which $12.2 million are recourse loan guarantees) with terms ranging from one to 10 years, secured by properties with a total aggregate purchase price of approximately $198.0 million. As of December 31, 2010, there were 133 properties under management with non-recourse carve-out loan guarantees or indemnities of approximately $3.1 billion in total principal outstanding with terms ranging from one to 10 years, secured by properties with a total aggregate purchase price of approximately $4.3 billion. In addition, the consolidated VIEs and unconsolidated VIEs are jointly and severally liable on the non-recourse mortgage debt related to the interests in our TIC investments.
Our guarantees consisted of the following as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
                 
    September 30,     December 31,  
(In thousands)   2011     2010  
Daymark non-recourse/carve-out guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management(1)
  $     $ 2,975,582  
Grubb & Ellis Company non-recourse/carve-out guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management(1)
  $ 77,394     $ 47,092  
Daymark and Grubb & Ellis Company non-recourse/carve-out guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management(2)
  $ 31,052     $ 31,271  
Daymark non-recourse/carve-out guarantees of debt of Daymark owned property(1)
  $     $ 60,000  
Daymark recourse guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management
  $     $ 12,900  
Grubb & Ellis Company recourse guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management(3)
  $ 12,248     $ 11,998  
Daymark recourse guarantees of debt of Daymark owned property(4)
  $     $ 10,000  
(1)  
A “non-recourse/carve-out” guarantee or indemnity generally imposes liability on the guarantor or indemnitor in the event the borrower engages in certain acts prohibited by the loan documents. Each non-recourse carve-out guarantee or indemnity is an individual document entered into with the mortgage lender in connection with the purchase or refinance of an individual property. While there is not a standard document evidencing these guarantees or indemnities, liability under the non-recourse carve-out guarantees or indemnities generally may be triggered by, among other things, any or all of the following:
 
 
a voluntary bankruptcy or similar insolvency proceeding of any borrower;
 
 
a “transfer” of the property or any interest therein in violation of the loan documents;
 
 
a violation by any borrower of the special purpose entity requirements set forth in the loan documents;
 
 
any fraud or material misrepresentation by any borrower or any guarantor in connection with the loan;
 
 
the gross negligence or willful misconduct by any borrower in connection with the property, the loan or any obligation under the loan documents;
 
 
the misapplication, misappropriation or conversion of (i) any rents, security deposits, proceeds or other funds, (ii) any insurance proceeds paid by reason of any loss, damage or destruction to the property, and (iii) any awards or other amounts received in connection with the condemnation of all or a portion of the property;
 
 
any waste of the property caused by acts or omissions of borrower of the removal or disposal of any portion of the property after an event of default under the loan documents; and
 
 
the breach of any obligations set forth in an environmental or hazardous substances indemnity agreement from borrower.
Certain acts (typically the first three listed above) may render the entire debt balance recourse to the guarantor or indemnitor, while the liability for other acts is typically limited to the damages incurred by the lender. Notice and cure provisions vary between guarantees and indemnities. Generally the guarantor or indemnitor irrevocably and unconditionally guarantees or indemnifies the lender the payment and performance of the guaranteed or indemnified obligations as and when the same shall be due and payable, whether by lapse of time, by acceleration or maturity or otherwise, and the guarantor or indemnitor covenants and agrees that it is liable for the guaranteed or indemnified obligations as a primary obligor. As of September 30, 2011, to the best of our knowledge, there was no debt owed by us as a result of the borrowers engaging in prohibited acts, despite the prohibited acts that occurred as more fully described below.

 

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(2)  
We and Daymark are each joint and severally liable on such non-recourse/carve-out guarantees.
 
(3)  
We have $1.0 million held as collateral by a lender related to one of our recourse guarantees that, upon the occurrence of any triggering event or condition under the guarantee, will be used to cover all or a portion of the amounts due under the guarantee.
 
(4)  
In addition to the $10.0 million principal guarantee, Daymark has guaranteed any shortfall in the payment of interest on the unpaid principal amount of the mortgage debt on one owned property.
If property values and performance decline, the risk of exposure under these guarantees increases. We initially evaluate these guarantees to determine if the guarantee meets the criteria required to record a liability in accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 460, Guarantees, (“Guarantees Topic”). Any such liabilities were insignificant upon execution of the guarantees. In addition, on an ongoing basis, we evaluate the need to record an additional liability in accordance with the requirements of ASC Topic 450, Contingencies, (“Contingencies Topic”). As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we had recourse guarantees of $12.2 million and $24.9 million, respectively, relating to debt of properties under Daymark management (of which $12.2 million and $12.0 million, respectively, is recourse back to Grubb & Ellis Company, the remainder of which is recourse to Daymark). As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, approximately $1.3 million and $9.5 million, respectively, of these recourse guarantees relate to debt that has matured, is in default, or is not currently in compliance with certain loan covenants (of which $1.3 million and $2.0 million, respectively, is recourse back to Grubb & Ellis Company, the remainder of which is recourse to Daymark). In addition, as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we had $8.0 million of recourse guarantees related to debt that will mature in the next twelve months (of which $8.0 million is recourse back to Grubb & Ellis Company). In connection with the sale of Daymark, the purchaser indemnified us up to $7.5 million for liabilities, obligations and claims related to or arising from the business or operations of Daymark or its subsidiaries. Our evaluation of the potential liability under these guarantees may prove to be inaccurate and liabilities may exceed estimates. In the event that actual losses materially exceed estimates, individual Daymark subsidiaries may not be able to pay such obligations as they become due. Failure of any of Daymark’s subsidiaries to pay its debts as they become due would likely have a materially negative impact on our ongoing business. In evaluating the potential liability relating to such guarantees, we consider factors such as the value of the properties secured by the debt, the likelihood that the lender will call the guarantee in light of the current debt service and other factors. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we recorded a liability of $0 and $0.8 million, respectively, which is included in liabilities held for sale, related to our estimate of probable loss related to recourse guarantees of debt of properties under Daymark management and previously under management.
An unaffiliated, individual investor entity (the “TIC debtor”), who was a minority owner in the Met Center 10 TIC program originally sponsored by GERI, filed a chapter 11 bankruptcy petition in January 2011. The principal balance of the mortgage debt for the Met Center 10 property was approximately $29.4 million at the time of the bankruptcy filing. On February 1, 2011, the special servicer for that loan foreclosed on all of the undivided TIC ownership interests in the Met Center 10 property, except the interest owned by the TIC debtor. The automatic stay imposed following the bankruptcy filing prevented the special servicer from foreclosing on 100% of the TIC ownership interests. The special servicer filed a motion for relief from the automatic stay to foreclose upon the remaining TIC ownership interest. By order dated May 2, 2011, the bankruptcy court continued the automatic stay, subject to certain conditions, to November 1, 2011. The May 2, 2011 order also established a procedure by which the special servicer would be required to reconvey the foreclosed upon interests to the Met Center 10 debtor and the other investor entities following payment of an “amount due” as that term is defined in the May 2, 2011 Order. By subsequent order dated October 13, 2011, the bankruptcy court continued the automatic stay, subject to certain conditions, to February 28, 2012.
GERI executed a non-recourse carve-out guarantee in connection with the mortgage loan for the Met 10 property. As discussed in the “Guarantees” disclosure above, such a “non-recourse carve-out” guarantee only imposes liability on GERI if certain acts prohibited by the loan documents take place. Liability under the non- recourse carve-out guarantee may be triggered by the voluntary bankruptcy filing made by the TIC debtor. As a consequence of the bankruptcy filing, the lender may assert that GERI is liable under the guarantee. GERI’s ultimate liability under the guarantee is uncertain as a result of numerous factors, including, without limitation, whether the bankruptcy filing of the TIC debtor triggered GERI’s obligations under the guarantee, the amount of the lender’s credit bid at the time of foreclosure, events in the bankruptcy proceeding and the ultimate disposition of the bankruptcy proceeding, and the defenses GERI may raise under the guarantee. As described above, under the Purchase Agreement, the Company agreed to indemnify Purchaser and its affiliates (including GERI) against liabilities, expenses, obligations, or claims related to Met Center 10, subject to certain limitations. The Company intends to vigorously dispute any imposition of any liability under the Met Center 10 guarantee. As of September 30, 2011, we did not have any liabilities accrued related to that guarantee.

 

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Daymark — On February 10, 2011, we announced that Daymark, our newly created, wholly owned and separately managed subsidiary, had been introduced into our ownership structure to manage our nationwide tenant-in-common (“TIC”) portfolio of commercial real estate properties managed by NNNRA. NNNRA is a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Daymark. NNNRA is required to maintain a specified level of minimum net worth under loan documents related to certain TIC programs that it has sponsored. Except as discussed below, while this circumstance does not, in and of itself, create any direct recourse liability for NNNRA, failure to meet the minimum net worth on these programs could result in the imposition of an event of default under these TIC loan agreements and NNNRA potentially becoming liable for up to $7.5 million, in the aggregate, of certain partial-recourse guarantee obligations of the underlying mortgage debt for certain of these TIC programs. To date, no events of default have been declared.
On March 25, 2011, we entered into a Services Agreement (the “Services Agreement”) with certain of our wholly owned subsidiaries pursuant to which we will provide certain corporate, administrative and other services to the various subsidiaries, and in connection therewith, such subsidiaries shall recognize the provision of such services and the allocation of the costs associated therewith. The Services Agreement, among other things, memorializes the intercompany account balances between us and certain of our subsidiaries and the treatment of such intercompany balances upon the occurrence of certain events.
Deferred Compensation Plan — During 2008, we implemented a deferred compensation plan that permits employees and independent contractors to defer portions of their compensation, subject to annual deferral limits, and have it credited to one or more investment options in the plan. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, $3.0 million and $3.4 million, respectively, reflecting the non-stock liability under this plan were included in accounts payable and accrued expenses. We have purchased whole-life insurance contracts on certain employee participants to recover distributions made or to be made under this plan and as September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 have recorded the cash surrender value of the policies of $0.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively, in prepaid expenses and other assets.
In addition, we award “phantom” shares of our stock to participants under the deferred compensation plan. These awards vest over three to five years. Vested phantom stock awards are also unfunded and paid according to distribution elections made by the participants at the time of vesting and will be settled by issuing shares of our common stock from our treasury share account or issuing unregistered shares of our common stock to the participant. During the year ended December 31, 2010, we issued 358,424 shares of common stock from our treasury share account related to fully vested phantom stock awards. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, an aggregate of 3.8 million and 4.1 million phantom share grants were outstanding, respectively. Generally, upon vesting, recipients of the grants are entitled to receive the number of phantom shares granted, regardless of the value of the shares upon the date of vesting; provided, however, as of September 30, 2011, grants with respect to 686,670 phantom shares had a guaranteed minimum share price ($2.4 million in the aggregate) that will result in us paying additional compensation to the participants should the value of the shares upon vesting be less than the grant date value of the shares. We account for additional compensation relating to the “guarantee” portion of the awards by measuring at each reporting date the additional payment that would be due to the participant based on the difference between the then current value of the shares awarded and the guaranteed value. This award is then amortized on a straight-line basis as compensation expense over the requisite service (vesting) period, with an offset to deferred compensation liability.
Subsequent Events
For a discussion of subsequent events, see Note 18 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of this Report for additional information.
Item 3.  
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
Interest Rate Risk
Market risks include risks that arise from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, equity prices and other market changes that affect market sensitive instruments. Management believes that the primary market risk to which we would be exposed would be interest rate risk. The interest rate risk management objective is to limit the impact of interest rate changes on earnings and cash flows and to lower the overall borrowing costs. To achieve this objective, in the past we had entered into derivative financial instruments such as interest rate swap and cap agreements when appropriate and may do so in the future. We had no such agreements outstanding as of September 30, 2011.

 

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In addition to interest rate risk, the value of our real estate investments is subject to fluctuations based on changes in local and regional economic conditions and changes in the creditworthiness of tenants, which may affect our ability to refinance our outstanding mortgage debt, if necessary.
Except for the acquisition of Grubb & Ellis Alesco Global Advisors, LLC, as previously described, we do not utilize financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes, nor do we utilize leveraged financial instruments.
The table below presents, as of September 30, 2011, the principal amounts and weighted average interest rates by year of expected maturity to evaluate the expected cash flows and sensitivity to interest rate changes.
                                                                 
    Expected Maturity Date                                      
(In thousands)   2011     2012     2013     2014     2015     Thereafter     Total     Fair Value  
Fixed rate debt — principal payments
  $ 90     $ 555     $     $     $ 31,500 (1)   $ 5,000     $ 37,145     $ 28,205  
Weighted average interest rate on maturing debt
    3.27 %     2.83 %                 7.95 %     7.95 %     7.86 %      
Variable rate debt — principal payments
  $     $ 18,881 (2)   $     $     $     $     $ 18,881     $ 18,881  
Weighted average interest rate on maturing debt (based on rates in effect as of September 30, 2011)
          11.50 %                                    
 
(1)  
Excludes unamortized debt discount of $1.1 million on convertible notes.
 
(2)  
Excludes unamortized debt discount of $0.4 million on credit facility.
As of September 30, 2011, our notes payable and Convertible Notes totaled $37.1 million had fixed interest rates ranging from 2.00% to 7.95%, a weighted average effective interest rate of 7.86% per annum and a fair value of $28.2 million. As of September 30, 2011, our credit facility totaled $18.9 million and had a weighted average effective interest rate of 11.50% per annum and a fair value of $18.9 million.
Item 4.  
Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC rules and regulations, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, we recognize that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, as ours are designed to do, and we necessarily were required to apply our judgment in evaluating whether the benefits of the controls and procedures that we adopt outweigh their costs.
Our Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act as of September 30, 2011, the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our Management has evaluated, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, whether any changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our last fiscal quarter have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2011 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.  
Legal Proceedings.
General
We are involved in lawsuits relating to certain of the investment management offerings of our former affiliate, Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC (“GERI”), in particular, its TIC programs. These lawsuits allege a variety of claims in connection with these offerings, including mismanagement, breach of contract, negligence, fraud and breach of fiduciary duty, among other claims. Plaintiffs in these suits seek a variety of remedies, including rescission, actual and punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees and costs. The damages being sought are unspecified and to be determined at trial. It is difficult to predict the ultimate disposition of these lawsuits and our ultimate liability with respect to such claims and lawsuits. It is also difficult to predict the cost of defending these matters and to what extent claims will be covered by our existing insurance policies. In the event of an unfavorable outcome, the amounts we may be required to pay in the discharge of liabilities or settlements could have a material adverse effect on our cash flows, financial position and results of operations.
Met Center 10
One such matter relates to a TIC property known as Met Center 10, located in Austin, Texas. The Company and certain of its former and current subsidiaries have been involved in multiple legal proceedings relating to Met Center 10, including three actions pending in state court in Austin, Texas and an arbitration proceeding being conducted in California. The arbitration proceeding involves GERI, a subsidiary of Daymark, and is pending before the American Arbitration Association in Orange County, California captioned NNN Met Center 10 1, LLC, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC (the “Met 10 Arbitration”). A state court action involving GERI is pending in the District Court of Travis County, Texas captioned NNN Met Center 10, LLC v. Met Center Partners-6, Ltd., et al. (the “Met 10 Main Action”). Two additional state court actions involving the Company, GERI, and Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc. (“GEMS”) are pending in the District Court for Travis County, Texas captioned NNN Met Center 10-1, LLC v. Lexington Insurance Company, et al. and NNN Met Center 10, LLC v. Lexington Insurance Company, et al. (together, the “Met 10 Lexington Actions”).
As described above, under the Purchase Agreement, we agreed to indemnify Purchaser and its affiliates (including GERI) against liabilities, expenses, obligations, or claims related to Met Center 10, subject to certain limitations.
In the Met 10 Arbitration, TIC investors asserted, among other things, that GERI should bear responsibility for alleged diminution in the value of the property and their investments as a result of ground movement. The Met 10 Arbitration was bifurcated into two phases. In the first phase, the arbitrator ruled in favor of the TIC investors, finding, among other things, that the TIC investors had properly terminated the property management agreement for cause. In Phase 2 of the arbitration, the TICs asserted claims for damages against GERI arising from alleged breaches of the management agreement and other alleged wrongful acts in connection with the management of the Met Center 10 property and other alleged breaches of duty.
Before the beginning of the Phase 2 hearing, the TICs, GERI, and Lexington Insurance Company reached a settlement, which has been documented and executed by the parties, and which is awaiting court approval. The settlement is for $0.1 million, net of insurance recoveries. Among other things, under the terms of the settlement, GERI must pay $0.1 million to the TICs shortly after the settlement is approved by the court, and may be obligated to subsequently pay up to approximately $0.6 million in addition to the initial $0.1 million payment, depending upon the resolution of claims relating to Met Center 10 against parties other than GERI. The TICs are releasing all claims relating to Met Center 10 against, among others, us and GERI.
In the Met 10 Texas Action, GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC were pursuing claims against the developers and sellers of the property (the “Sellers”), the due diligence firm retained by GERI in connection with the purchase of the Met Center 10 property, and the engineering, construction, and design professionals who performed work relating to the Met Center 10 property (together with the due diligence firm, the “Professionals”) to recover damages arising from, among other things, ground movement. The Sellers and the Professionals were asserting counterclaims against GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC. GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, on the one hand, and the Sellers, on the other, have reached a settlement resolving all claims between them, which has been documented and executed by the parties. Under that settlement, GERI, its affiliates, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC are being released from all claims by the Sellers relating to Met Center 10. Neither GERI nor its affiliates (or NNN Met Center 10, LLC) are required to make any payments pursuant to the settlement with the Sellers. In addition, GERI and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, on the one hand, and the Professionals, on the other hand, have reached a tentative settlement resolving all claims between them, which is in the process of being documented and approved. Under that settlement, GERI, its affiliates, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC are being released from all claims by the Professionals relating to Met Center 10. Neither GERI nor its affiliates (or NNN Met Center 10, LLC) are required to make any payments pursuant to the tentative settlement with the Professionals.

 

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In the Met 10 Lexington Actions, the TIC investors were asserting claims against former officers and employees of the Company and other defendants in connection with the negotiation and documentation of an insurance settlement relating to the Met Center 10 property, and an alleged misallocation and/or misappropriation of the proceeds of that settlement. In addition, Lexington Insurance Company asserted claims against NNN Met Center 10, LLC, the Company, GERI, and GEMS arising of the insurance settlement. Pursuant to the settlement of the Met 10 Arbitration described above, the TICs are releasing and dismissing certain claims against the former officers and employees of the Company, including claims that were being asserted in the Met 10 Lexington Actions, and Lexington is releasing and dismissing its claims against the Company, GERI, GEMS, and NNN Met Center 10, LLC, including the claims Lexington was asserting in the Met 10 Lexington Actions.
TIC Program Exchange Litigation
GERI and Grubb & Ellis Company are defendants in an action filed on or about February 14, 2011 in the Superior Court of Orange County, California captioned S. Sidney Mandel, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC, et al. The plaintiffs allege that, in order to induce the plaintiffs to purchase $22.3 million in TIC investments that GERI (formerly known as Triple Net Properties, LLC) was syndicating, GERI offered to subsequently “repurchase” those investments and provide certain “put” rights under certain terms and conditions pursuant to a letter agreement executed between GERI and the plaintiffs. The plaintiffs allege that GERI has failed to honor its purported obligations under the letter agreement and have initiated suit for breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing and declaratory relief as to the rights and obligations of the parties under the letter agreement. By way of a first amended complaint, the plaintiffs are alleging that GERI is merely an inadequately capitalized instrumentality of Grubb & Ellis Company and that Grubb & Ellis Company should be held liable for acts and omissions of GERI. The plaintiffs are seeking damages totaling $26.5 million, attorneys’ fees and costs. We intend to vigorously defend these claims and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.
Under the Purchase Agreement, IUC-SOV, LLC agreed to indemnify and hold harmless us and our officers, directors, and affiliates against any liabilities of, obligations of or claims against us related to or arising from the businesses or operations of any “Acquired Company” (including GERI). By letter dated September 26, 2011, the Company made a demand, pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, that IUC-SOV, LLC indemnify and hold harmless us against any and all losses that may be incurred or suffered by us in connection with the Mandel action. IUC-SOV, LLC did not make any objection to that claim for indemnification.
We and GERI filed demurrers to the first amended complaint. The court sustained GERI’s demurrer and granted the plaintiffs leave to file an amended pleading. The court denied our demurrer. We intend to vigorously defend the claims asserted by the plaintiffs and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.
Durham Office Park
Grubb & Ellis Company and Grubb & Ellis Securities as well as various Daymark subsidiaries are defendants in an action filed on or about July 21, 2010 in North Carolina Business Court, Durham County Superior Court Division, captioned NNN Durham Office Portfolio I, LLC, et al. v. Grubb & Ellis Company, et al. Plaintiffs invested more than $11 million for TIC interests in a commercial real estate project in Durham, North Carolina. Plaintiffs claim, among other things, that information regarding the intentions of the property’s anchor tenant to remain in occupancy was withheld and misrepresented. Plaintiffs have asserted claims for breach of contract, negligence, negligent misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, unfair and deceptive trade practices and conspiracy. We intend to vigorously defend these claims and to assert all applicable defenses. At this time we are unable to predict the likelihood of an unfavorable or adverse award or outcome. At this time it is not possible to estimate a range of possible loss for this matter.

 

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Item 1A.  
Risk Factors.
There were no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010, filed with the SEC on March 31, 2011, except as noted below.
The timing and amount of remaining revenues and cash flows generated from our sponsored non-traded REIT post-termination are uncertain.
On November 7, 2011, Grubb & Ellis Healthcare REIT II (“Healthcare REIT II”), a separate legal entity with an independent board of directors sponsored by us, terminated its advisory and dealer-manager relationships (collectively the “REIT agreements’) with various subsidiaries of Grubb & Ellis Company. The termination is effective immediately, subject to a 60-day transition period. The timing and amount of additional fees we earn in connection with our sponsored non-traded REIT post-termination will depend on our ability to raise equity capital for the REIT during the 60-day transition period and the amount and timing of property acquisitions. Based on the projected levels of capital we estimate will be raised for Healthcare REIT II during the 60-day transition period and the pipeline of property acquisitions expected to close, we currently estimate that we will be entitled to receive aggregate acquisition fees in excess of $6.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2011 and the first quarter of 2012. In addition, we expect to receive property and asset management fees of approximately $1.1 million in the aggregate through the end of the transition period. The amount of capital to be raised and the timing and amount of property acquisitions that close are uncertain, and as such the timing of cash flows may materially differ from these estimates. In addition, should Healthcare REIT II fail to pay amounts that become due to us under the REIT Agreements, it could have a material adverse affect on our near term cash flows, results of operations and financial condition and create significant risk of our ability to continue as a going concern.
We can give no assurances as to the financial wherewithal of the purchaser of Daymark, IUC-SOV, LLC, which agreed to provide certain indemnification to the Company in connection with the Daymark Transaction.
We entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of August 10, 2011 (the “Purchase Agreement”) by and between us and IUC-SOV, LLC (the “Purchaser”). Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, the Purchaser agreed to indemnify, subject to limitations, us and our affiliates against any losses incurred or suffered by us as a result of, among other things: (1) any liabilities or obligations of, or claims against, us or any of our subsidiaries related to or arising from the business or operations of Daymark or any of its subsidiaries, including existing and future litigation and claims, non-recourse carve-out guarantees and other guaranty obligations (subject to a $7.5 million cap as to matters that occurred, arose or were asserted prior to the sale of Daymark); and (2) up to $0.65 million of the legal fees and expenses relating to Met Center 10 that have not been paid by us prior to the sale of Daymark (the “Indemnified Claims”).
The Purchaser is an unaffiliated third party over which we have no control. Accordingly, in the event that the Purchaser is ever required to fulfill an indemnification obligation under the Purchase Agreement, we do not know, and can provide no assurances, that the Purchaser will have the financial wherewithal at that time to fulfill such indemnification obligation. In the event the Purchaser fails to satisfy a material indemnification obligation and we are liable with respect thereto, the amount that we may be required to pay with respect to the applicable Indemnified Claim could have a material adverse effect on our cash flows, financial position and results of operations.
Item 2.  
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
During the third quarter of 2011, we did not grant any restricted shares of our common stock.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
A summary of our monthly purchases of Grubb & Ellis Company common stock during the quarter ended September 30, 2011 is as follows:
                 
    Total Number of Shares     Average Price  
    Purchased(1)     Paid per Share  
July 1 – July 31
    1,250     $ 0.39  
August 1 – August 31
    52,512     $ 0.61  
September 1 – September 30
    6,947     $ 0.57  
(1)  
Represents shares that were purchased in connection with funding employee income tax withholding obligations arising upon the lapse of restrictions on restricted shares.
Item 3.  
Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
The Board of Directors determined, as permitted, not to declare the dividend on our 12% Preferred Stock, for the quarters ending March 31, June 30 and September 30, 2011. As of September 30, 2011, the amount of cumulative unpaid dividends totaled $8.8 million.

 

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Item 4.  
[Removed and Reserved].
Item 5.  
Other Information.
None.
Item 6.  
Exhibits.
The exhibits listed on the Exhibit Index (following the signatures section of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q) are included, or incorporated by reference, in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

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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.
         
  GRUBB & ELLIS COMPANY
(Registrant)
 
 
  /s/ Michael J. Rispoli    
  Michael J. Rispoli   
  Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer) 
 
Date: November 14, 2011

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX
Pursuant to Item 601(a)(2) of Regulation S-K, this Exhibit Index immediately precedes the exhibits.
The following exhibits are included, or incorporated by reference, in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2011 (and are numbered in accordance with Item 601 of Regulation S-K).
(2) Plan of Acquisition, Reorganization, Arrangement, Liquidation or Succession
         
  2.1    
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of May 22, 2007, among NNN Realty Advisors, Inc., B/C Corporate Holdings, Inc. and the Registrant, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 23, 2007.
       
 
  2.2    
Merger Agreement, dated as of January 22, 2009, by and among the Registrant, GERA Danbury LLC, GERA Property Acquisition, LLC, Matrix Connecticut, LLC and Matrix Danbury, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 29, 2009.
       
 
  2.3    
First Amendment to Merger Agreement, dated as of January 22, 2009, by and among the Registrant, GERA Danbury LLC, GERA Property Acquisition, LLC, Matrix Connecticut, LLC and Matrix Danbury, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 29, 2009.
       
 
  2.4    
Second Amendment to Merger Agreement, dated as of May 19, 2009, by and among the Registrant, GERA Danbury LLC, GERA Property Acquisition, LLC, Matrix Connecticut, LLC and Matrix Danbury, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 26, 2009.
(3) Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
         
  3.1    
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 31, 1995.
       
 
  3.2    
Certificate of Retirement with Respect to 130,233 Shares of Junior Convertible Preferred Stock of Grubb & Ellis Company, filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on January 22, 1997, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on February 13, 1997.
       
 
  3.3    
Certificate of Retirement with Respect to 8,894 Shares of Series A Senior Convertible Preferred Stock, 128,266 Shares of Series B Senior Convertible Preferred Stock, and 19,767 Shares of Junior Convertible Preferred Stock of Grubb & Ellis Company, filed with the Delaware Secretary State on January 22, 1997, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on February 13, 1997.
       
 
  3.4    
Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on December 9, 1997, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Registrant’s Statement on Form S-8 filed on December 19, 1997 (File No. 333-42741).
       
 
  3.5    
Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Grubb & Ellis Company as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on December 7, 2007, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 13, 2007.
       
 
  3.6    
Amendment to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant as filed with the Delaware Secretary of State on December 17, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2009.
       
 
  3.7    
Bylaws of the Registrant, as amended and restated effective May 31, 2000, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.5 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on September 28, 2000.
       
 
  3.8    
Amendment to the Amended and Restated By-laws of the Registrant, effective as of December 7, 2007, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 13, 2007.
       
 
  3.9    
Amendment to the Amended and Restated By-laws of the Registrant, effective as of January 25, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 31, 2008.

 

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  3.10    
Amendment to the Amended and Restated By-laws of the Registrant, effective as of October 26, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 29, 2008.
       
 
  3.11    
Amendment to the Amended and Restated By-laws of the Registrant, effective as of February 5, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 9, 2009.
       
 
  3.12    
Amendment to the Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant, effective December 17, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2009.
(4) Instruments Defining the Rights of Security Holders, including Indentures.
         
  4.1    
Certificate of Incorporation, as amended and restated. See Exhibits 3.1, 3.4 — 3.6.
       
 
  4.2    
By-laws, as amended and restated. See Exhibits 3.7 — 3.12.
       
 
  4.3    
Amended and Restated Certificate of Designations, Number, Voting Powers, Preferences and Rights of Series A Preferred Stock of Grubb & Ellis Company, as filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on September 13, 2002, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.8 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on October 15, 2002.
       
 
  4.4    
Certificate of Designations, Number, Voting Powers, Preferences and Rights of Series A-1 Preferred Stock of Grubb & Ellis Company, as filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on January 4, 2005, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 6, 2005.
       
 
  4.5    
Preferred Stock Exchange Agreement, dated as of December 30, 2004, between the Registrant and Kojaian Ventures, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 6, 2005.
       
 
  4.6    
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of April 28, 2006, between the Registrant, Kojaian Ventures, LLC and Kojaian Holdings, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 28, 2006.
       
 
  4.7    
Warrant Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2009, by and between the Registrant, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, Fifth Third Bank, JPMorgan Chase, N.A. and KeyBank, National Association, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on May 27, 2009.
       
 
  4.8    
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of October 27, 2009, by and among the Registrant and each of the persons listed on the Schedule of Initial Holders attached thereto as Schedule A, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant’s Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on December 28, 2009.
       
 
  4.9    
Amendment No. 1 to Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of November 4, 2009, by and among the Registrant and each of the persons listed on the Schedule of Initial Holders attached thereto as Schedule A, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant’s Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on December 28, 2009.
       
 
  4.10    
Certificate of the Powers, Designations, Preferences and Rights of the 12% Cumulative Participating Perpetual Convertible Preferred Stock, as filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on November 4, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Annex B to the Registrant’s Schedule 14A filed on November 6, 2009.
       
 
  4.11    
Indenture for the 7.95% Convertible Senior Securities due 2015, dated as of May 7, 2010, between Grubb & Ellis Company, as Issuer, and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 7, 2010.
       
 
  4.12    
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 7, 2010, between Grubb & Ellis Company and JMP Securities LLC, as Initial Purchaser, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 7, 2010.
       
 
  4.13    
Form of Warrant Agreement, dated as of April 15, 2011, among Grubb & Ellis Company and CDCF II GNE Holding, LLC and CFI GNE Warrant Investor, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 20, 2011.

 

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  4.14    
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of April 15, 2011, among Grubb & Ellis Company and CDCF II GNE Holding, LLC and CFI GNE Warrant Investor, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 20, 2011.
       
 
  4.15    
Amendment No. 1 To Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock of Grubb & Ellis Company, dated as of July 22, 2011, among Grubb & Ellis Company and CFI GNE Warrant Investor, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2011.
       
 
  4.16    
Amendment No. 1 To Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock of Grubb & Ellis Company, dated as of July 22, 2011, among Grubb & Ellis Company and CDCF II GNE Holding, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2011.
       
 
  4.17    
Form of Second Amendment Effective Date Warrants, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 19, 2011.
       
 
  4.18    
Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement, dated October 16, 2011, among Grubb & Ellis Company and CDCF II GNE Holding, LLC and CFI GNE Warrant Investor, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 19, 2011.
       
 
  4.19    
Amendment to Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock of Grubb & Ellis Company, dated October 16, 2011, among Grubb & Ellis Company and CFI GNE Warrant Investor, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 19, 2011.
       
 
  4.20    
Amendment to Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock of Grubb & Ellis Company, dated October 16, 2011, among Grubb & Ellis Company and CDCF II GNE Holding, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 19, 2011.
On an individual basis, instruments other than Exhibits listed above under Exhibit 4 defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the Registrant and our consolidated subsidiaries and partnerships do not exceed ten percent of total consolidated assets and are, therefore, omitted; however, the Company will furnish supplementally to the Commission any such omitted instrument upon request.
(10) Material Contracts
         
  10.1*    
Form of Restricted Stock Agreement between the Registrant and each of the Registrant’s Outside Directors, dated as of September 22, 2005, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to Amendment No. 1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on June 19, 2006 (File No. 333-133659).
       
 
  10.2*    
Grubb & Ellis Company 2006 Omnibus Equity Plan effective as of November 9, 2006, incorporated herein by reference to Appendix A to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2006 Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed on October 10, 2006.
       
 
  10.3*    
Employment Agreement between Richard W. Pehlke and the Registrant, dated as of February 9, 2007, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 15, 2007.
       
 
  10.4*    
Amendment No. 1 Employment Agreement between Richard W. Pehlke and the Registrant dated as of December 23, 2008, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 23, 2008.
       
 
  10.5*    
Consulting and Separation Agreement and General Release of All Claims by and between Grubb & Ellis Company and Richard W. Pehlke, dated May 3, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 4, 2010.
       
 
  10.6*    
Employment Agreement between NNN Realty Advisors, Inc. and Andrea R. Biller incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2008.
       
 
  10.7*    
Separation Agreement and General Release of All Claims, between Andrea R. Biller and Grubb & Ellis Company, dated October 22, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 28, 2010.
       
 
  10.8*    
Membership Interest Assignment Agreement by and among Andrea R. Biller, Grubb & Ellis Equity Advisors, LLC and Grubb & Ellis Equity Advisors Property Management, Inc., dated as of October 22, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 28, 2010.

 

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  10.9 *  
Employment Agreement between NNN Realty Advisors, Inc. and Jeffrey T. Hanson incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2008.
       
 
  10.10    
Indemnity Agreement dated as of October 23, 2006 between Anthony W. Thompson and NNN Realty Advisors, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2008.
       
 
  10.11    
Indemnity and Escrow Agreement by and among Escrow Agent, NNN Realty Advisors, Inc., Anthony W. Thompson, Louis J. Rogers and Jeffrey T. Hanson, together with Certificate as to Authorized Signatures incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.31 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2008.
       
 
  10.12 *  
Form of Indemnity Agreement executed by Andrea R. Biller, Glenn L. Carpenter, Howard H. Greene, Jeffrey T. Hanson, Gary H. Hunt, C. Michael Kojaian, Francene LaPoint, Robert J. McLaughlin, Devin I. Murphy, Robert H. Osbrink, Richard W. Pehlke, Scott D. Peters, Dylan Taylor, Jacob Van Berkel, D. Fleet Wallace and Rodger D. Young incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.41 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 17, 2008.
       
 
  10.13 *  
Change of Control Agreement dated December 23, 2008 by and between Jacob Van Berkel and the Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 24, 2008.
       
 
  10.14    
Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2009, among the Registrant, certain of its subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”), the “Lender” (as defined therein), Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc., as syndication agent, sole book-running manager and sole lead arranger, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as initial issuing bank, swing line bank and administrative agent, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.61 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on May 27, 2009.
       
 
  10.15    
Third Amended and Restated Security Agreement, dated as of May 18, 2009, among the Registrant, certain of its subsidiaries and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as administrative agent, for the “Secured Parties” (as defined therein), incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.62 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on May 27, 2009.
       
 
  10.16 *  
Employment Agreement between Thomas P. D’Arcy and the Registrant, dated as of November 16, 2009, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A filed on November 19, 2009.
       
 
  10.17 *  
First Amendment to Employment Agreement by and between Grubb & Ellis Company and Thomas P. D’Arcy, dated as of August 11, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 11, 2010.
       
 
  10.18    
First Letter Amendment to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2009, by and among Grubb & Ellis Company, the guarantors named therein, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as administrative agent, the financial institutions identified therein as lender parties, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as syndication agent, and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as sole book running manager and sole lead arranger, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 2, 2009.
       
 
  10.19    
First Letter Amendment to Warrant Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2009, by and between Grubb & Ellis Company and the holders identified in Exhibit B thereto, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 2, 2009.
       
 
  10.20    
First Letter Amendment to the Third Amended and Restated Security Agreement, dated as of September 30, 2009, made by the grantors referred to therein in favor of Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as administrative agent for the secured parties referred to therein, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 2, 2009.
       
 
  10.21    
Senior Subordinated Convertible Note dated October 2, 2009 issued by Grubb & Ellis Company to Kojaian Management Corporation, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 2, 2009.
       
 
  10.22    
Subordination Agreement dated October 2, 2009 by and among Kojaian Management Corporation, Grubb & Ellis Company and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.5 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 2, 2009.
       
 
  10.23    
Form of Purchase Agreement by and between Grubb & Ellis Company and the accredited investors set forth on Schedule A attached thereto, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 26, 2009.

 

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  10.24    
Agreement regarding Tremont Net Funding II, LLC Loan Arrangement with GERA 6400 Shafer LLC and GERA Abrams Centre LLC, dated as of December 29, 2009, by and among GERA Abrams Centre LLC and GERA 6400 Shafer LLC, collectively as Borrower, Grubb & Ellis Company, as Guarantor, Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc., as both Abrams Manager and Shafer Manager, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 6, 2010.
       
 
  10.25    
Form of Assignment of Personal Property, Name, Service Contracts, Warranties and Leases for GERA Abrams Centre LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 6, 2010.
       
 
  10.26    
Form of Assignment of Personal Property, Name, Service Contracts, Warranties and Leases for GERA 6400 Shafer LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 6, 2010.
       
 
  10.27    
Form of Special Warranty Deed for GERA Abrams Centre LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 6, 2010.
       
 
  10.28    
Form of Special Warranty Deed for GERA 6400 Shafer LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 6, 2010.
       
 
  10.29    
Form of Restricted Stock Award Grant Notice and Restricted Stock Award Agreement by and between the Company and Jeffrey T. Hanson dated March 10, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.75 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2010.
       
 
  10.30    
Form of Restricted Stock Award Grant Notice and Restricted Stock Award Agreement by and between the Company and Jacob Van Berkel dated March 10, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.76 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 6, 2010.
       
 
  10.31    
Form of Amended and Restated Restricted Stock Award Grant Notice for Annual Restricted Stock Award to Non-Management Directors, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.77 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2010.
       
 
  10.32    
Special Warranty Deed for GERA Abrams Centre LLC recorded on March 31, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 6, 2010.
       
 
  10.33    
Purchase Agreement between Grubb & Ellis Company and JMP Securities LLC, dated May 3, 2010, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 4, 2010.
       
 
  10.34    
Shared Services Agreement by and among Grubb & Ellis Company, Daymark Realty Advisors, Inc., Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc., Grubb & Ellis Equity Advisors, LLC, Grubb & Ellis Advisors of California, Inc., Grubb & Ellis Affiliates, Inc., Grubb & Ellis of Arizona, Inc., Grubb & Ellis Europe, Inc., G&E Landauer Valuation Advisory Services, LLC, G&E — Mortgage Group, Inc., G&E — New York, Inc., G&E — Michigan, Inc., G&E of Nevada, Inc., G&E Consulting Services Co., HSM Inc., Wm. A. White/G&E Inc., Grubb & Ellis Capital Corp., NNN Realty Advisors, Inc., Triple Net Properties Realty, Inc., Grubb & Ellis Realty Investors, LLC, and Grubb & Ellis Residential Management, Inc., dated as of March 25, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 28, 2011.
       
 
  10.35    
Exclusivity Agreement by and between Colony Capital Acquisitions, LLC and Grubb & Ellis Company, dated as of March 30, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 30, 2011.
       
 
  10.36    
Commitment Letter for $18,000,000 Senior Secured Term Loan Facility by and between Colony Capital Acquisitions, LLC and Grubb & Ellis Company, dated as of March 30, 2011, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 30, 2011.
       
 
  10.37    
Credit Agreement, dated as of April 15, 2011, by and among Grubb & Ellis Company, Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc., the lenders party thereto, and ColFin GNE Loan Funding, LLC, an affiliate of Colony Capital LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 20, 2011.
       
 
  10.38    
Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated as of April 15, 2011, by and among Grubb & Ellis Company, Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc., certain other subsidiaries of Grubb & Ellis Company, and ColFin GNE Loan Funding, LLC, in its capacity as administrative agent, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 20, 2011.

 

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  10.39 *  
Consulting Agreement, dated as of June 10, 2011, between Grubb & Ellis Company and Mathieu Streiff, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 16, 2011.
       
 
  10.40 *  
Separation Agreement and General Release of All Claims, dated as of June 10, 2011, by and between Mathieu B. Streiff and Grubb & Ellis Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 16, 2011.
       
 
  10.41 *  
Agreement, dated as of June 15, 2011, by and between Grubb & Ellis Company and Michael Rispoli, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 21, 2011.
       
 
  10.42 *  
Agreement, dated as of June 15, 2011, by and between Grubb & Ellis Company and Matthew Engel, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 21, 2011.
       
 
  10.43    
Amendment No. 1 to Credit Agreement, dated as of July 22, 2011, by and among Grubb & Ellis Company, Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc., certain other subsidiaries of Grubb & Ellis Company, and ColFin GNE Loan Funding, LLC, in its capacity as administrative agent, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2011.
       
 
  10.44    
Waiver to Commitment Letter, dated as of July 22, 2011, among Colony Capital Acquisitions, LLC, Grubb & Ellis Company and Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc., incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2011.
       
 
  10.45    
Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 10, 2011, by and between Grubb & Ellis Company and IUC-SOV, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 1, 2011.
       
 
  10.46    
Promissory Note, dated as of August 10, 2011, by Grubb & Ellis Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 1, 2011.
       
 
  10.47    
Intercompany Balance Settlement And Release Agreement, dated as of August 10, 2011, by and between Grubb & Ellis Company and IUC-SOV, LLC, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 1, 2011.
       
 
  10.48    
Amendment No. 2 to Credit Agreement, dated as of October 16, 2011, by and among Grubb & Ellis Company, Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc., certain other subsidiaries of Grubb & Ellis Company, and ColFin GNE Loan Funding, LLC, in its capacity as administrative agent, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 19, 2011.
       
 
  10.49    
Exclusivity Letter, dated as of October 16, 2011, by and between C-III Investments LLC and its affiliates, ColFin GNE Loan Funding, LLC and its affiliates and Grubb & Ellis Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 19, 2011.
       
 
  31.1  
Certification of Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
       
 
  31.2  
Certification of Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
       
 
  32 ††  
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as created by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
       
 
101.INS††  
XBRL Instance Document
       
 
101.SCH††  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
       
 
101.CAL††  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
       
 
101.LAB††  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
       
 
101.PRE††  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
       
 
101.DEF††  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
 
     
 
Filed herewith.
 
††  
Furnished herewith.
 
*  
Management contract or compensatory plan arrangement.

 

61