Table of Contents

 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
____________________________________________________ 
FORM 10-Q
____________________________________________________  
(Mark One)
xQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT of 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012
OR
oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT of 1934
For the Transition Period From                     To                     
Commission file number 001-34626
PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 ____________________________________________________ 
Maryland 58-2328421
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

11695 Johns Creek Parkway
Ste. 350
Johns Creek, Georgia 30097
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)
(770) 418-8800
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
N/A
(Former name, former address, and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  x    No   o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  x No  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large Accelerated filer x
 
Accelerated filer o
 
Non-Accelerated filer o     (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)        
 
Smaller reporting company o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes  o No   x
Number of shares outstanding of the Registrant’s
only class of common stock, as of NovemberMay 2, 20112012:
172,826,991172,734,007 shares
 


Table of Contents

FORM 10-Q
PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 Page No.
PART I.Financial Statements 
    
 Item 1.
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
  
    
 Item 2.
    
 Item 3.
    
 Item 4.
   
PART II.Other Information 
    
 Item 1.
    
 Item 1A.
    
 Item 2.
    
 Item 3.
    
 Item 4.
    
 Item 5.
    
 Item 6.


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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained in this Form 10-Q and other written or oral statements made by or on behalf of Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc. (“Piedmont”) may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. In addition, Piedmont, or its executive officers on Piedmont’s behalf, may from time to time make forward-looking statements in reports and other documents Piedmont files with the Securities and Exchange Commission or in connection with oral statements made to the press, potential investors, or others. Statements regarding future events and developments and Piedmont’s future performance, as well as management’s expectations, beliefs, plans, estimates, or projections relating to the future, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of these laws. Forward-looking statements include statements preceded by, followed by, or that include the words “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “continue,” or other similar words. Examples of such statements in this report include descriptions of our real estate, financing, and operating objectives; discussions regarding future dividends and stock repurchases; and discussions regarding the potential impact of economic conditions on our portfolio.
These statements are based on beliefs and assumptions of Piedmont’s management, which in turn are based on currently available information. Important assumptions relating to the forward-looking statements include, among others, assumptions regarding the demand for office space in the sectors in which Piedmont operates, competitive conditions, and general economic conditions. These assumptions could prove inaccurate. The forward-looking statements also involve risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Many of these factors are beyond Piedmont’s ability to control or predict. Such factors include, but are not limited to, the following:
The success of our real estate strategies and investment objectives, including our ability to identify and consummate suitable acquisitions;
If current marketThe demand for office space, rental rates and property values may continue to lag the general economic conditions do not improve,recovery causing our business, results of operations, cash flows, financial condition real estate and other asset values, and access to capital mayto be adversely affected or otherwise impact performance, including the potential recognition of impairment charges;
Our $500 Million Unsecured Facility matures in August 2012 and a failure to fully renew or replace this Facility could cause our business, results of operations, cash flows, financial condition and access to capital to be adversely affected;
Lease terminations or lease defaults, particularly by one of our large lead tenants;
The impact of competition on our efforts to renew existing leases or re-let space on terms similar to existing leases;
Changes in the economies and other conditions of the office market in general and of the specific markets in which we operate, particularly in Chicago, Washington, D.C., and the New York metropolitan area;
Economic and regulatory changes, including accounting standards, that impact the real estate market generally;
Additional risks and costs associated with directly managing properties occupied by government tenants;
Adverse market and economic conditions may continue to adverselynegatively affect us and could cause us to recognize impairment charges or otherwise impact our performance;
Availability of financing and our lending banks’ ability to honor existing line of credit commitments;
Costs of complying with governmental laws and regulations;
Uncertainties associated with environmental and other regulatory matters;
Potential changes in the political environment and reduction in federal and/or state funding of our government tenants;
We are and may continue to be subject to litigation, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition;
Piedmont’s ability to continue to qualify as a real estate investment trustREIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended;(the “Code”); and
Other factors, including the risk factors discussed under Item 1A. of Piedmont’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20102011.
Management believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable; however, undue reliance should not be placed on any forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations. Further, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and management undertakes no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events.

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PART I. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ITEM 1.CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The information presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows reflects all adjustments that are, in management’s opinion, necessary for a fair and consistent presentation of financial position, results of operations, and cash flows in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
The accompanying financial statements should be read in conjunction with the notes to Piedmont’s financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in this report on Form 10-Q and with Piedmont’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20102011. Piedmont’s results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results expected for the full year.

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PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except for share and per share amounts)
(Unaudited)  (Unaudited)  
September 30,
2011
 December 31,
2010
March 31,
2012
 December 31,
2011
Assets:      
Real estate assets, at cost:      
Land$637,656
 $592,080
$631,745
 $640,196
Buildings and improvements, less accumulated depreciation of $766,163 and
$707,314 as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively
2,955,186
 2,779,652
Intangible lease assets, less accumulated amortization of $118,574 and $125,193 as of
September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively
88,047
 68,227
Buildings and improvements, less accumulated depreciation of $813,679 and $792,342 as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively2,936,796
 2,967,254
Intangible lease assets, less accumulated amortization of $119,188 and $119,419 as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively72,411
 79,248
Construction in progress16,853
 8,591
16,725
 17,353
Real estate assets held for sale, net228,896
 228,278
Total real estate assets3,926,638
 3,676,828
3,657,677
 3,704,051
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures38,391
 42,018
37,901
 38,181
Cash and cash equivalents16,128
 56,718
28,679
 139,690
Tenant receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $809 and $1,298 as of
September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively
131,094
 123,269
Notes receivable
 61,144
Tenant and notes receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $514 and $631 as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively150,655
 129,523
Due from unconsolidated joint ventures643
 1,158
449
 788
Restricted cash and escrows36,300
 814
25,108
 9,039
Prepaid expenses and other assets13,978
 11,249
12,477
 9,911
Goodwill180,097
 180,097
180,097
 180,097
Deferred financing costs, less accumulated amortization of $8,611 and $11,740 as of
September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively
4,739
 5,240
Deferred lease costs, less accumulated amortization of $115,633 and $111,671 as of
September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively
217,757
 165,001
Other assets held for sale47,353
 49,944
Deferred financing costs, less accumulated amortization of $9,657 and $9,214 as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively5,187
 5,977
Deferred lease costs, less accumulated amortization of $126,062 and $120,358 as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively228,468
 230,577
Total assets$4,613,118
 $4,373,480
$4,326,698
 $4,447,834
Liabilities:      
Line of credit and notes payable$1,544,525
 $1,282,525
$1,352,525
 $1,472,525
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and accrued capital expenditures143,106
 112,648
116,292
 122,986
Deferred income32,514
 35,203
32,031
 27,321
Intangible lease liabilities, less accumulated amortization of $65,496 and $60,850 as of
September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively
51,599
 42,005
Intangible lease liabilities, less accumulated amortization of $66,349 and $63,981 as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively46,640
 49,037
Interest rate swap
 691
2,552
 2,537
Notes payable and other liabilities held for sale124,451
 126,954
Total liabilities1,896,195
 1,600,026
1,550,040
 1,674,406
Commitments and Contingencies

 



 

Stockholders’ Equity:      
Shares-in-trust, 150,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding as of September 30, 2011 or December 31, 2010
 
Preferred stock, no par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding as of September 30, 2011 or December 31, 2010
 
Common stock, $.01 par value, 750,000,000 shares authorized; 172,826,991 and 172,658,489 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2011 and
December 31, 2010, respectively (Note 12 )
1,728
 1,727
Shares-in-trust, 150,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding as of March 31, 2012 or December 31, 2011
 
Preferred stock, no par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding as of March 31, 2012 or December 31, 2011
 
Common stock, $.01 par value, 750,000,000 shares authorized; 172,629,748 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011.1,726
 1,726
Additional paid-in capital3,663,155
 3,661,308
3,664,202
 3,663,662
Cumulative distributions in excess of earnings(952,370) (895,122)(888,331) (891,032)
Other comprehensive loss
 (691)(2,552) (2,537)
Piedmont stockholders’ equity2,712,513
 2,767,222
2,775,045
 2,771,819
Noncontrolling interest1,613
 1,609
1,613
 1,609
Noncontrolling interest held for sale2,797
 4,623
Total stockholders’ equity2,716,923
 2,773,454
2,776,658
 2,773,428
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$4,613,118
 $4,373,480
$4,326,698
 $4,447,834
See accompanying notes

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PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONSINCOME
(in thousands, except for share and per share amounts)
 
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Nine Months EndedThree Months Ended
September 30, September 30,March 31,
2011 2010 2011 20102012 2011
Revenues:          
Rental income$105,878
 $102,097
 $311,760
 $306,238
$105,758
 $100,322
Tenant reimbursements28,459
 26,983
 86,368
 84,100
26,741
 26,894
Property management fee revenue110
 806
 1,303
 2,265
574
 830
Other rental income(33) 4,230
 4,718
 5,205
124
 3,404
134,414
 134,116
 404,149
 397,808
133,197
 131,450
Expenses:          
Property operating costs51,062
 44,417
 153,258
 143,416
52,782
 48,817
Depreciation26,375
 24,317
 77,748
 72,264
27,453
 25,037
Amortization14,907
 9,302
 39,411
 28,215
12,792
 10,338
General and administrative4,673
 6,595
 18,631
 20,790
5,257
 6,612
97,017
 84,631
 289,048
 264,685
98,284
 90,804
Real estate operating income37,397
 49,485
 115,101
 133,123
34,913
 40,646
Other income (expense):          
Interest expense(16,236) (15,777) (49,638) (50,687)(16,537) (15,640)
Interest and other (expense)/income(91) 993
 3,130
 2,996
Interest and other income97
 3,459
Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures485
 619
 1,032
 2,003
170
 209
Gain on consolidation of variable interest entity
 
 1,532
 

 1,920
(15,842) (14,165) (43,944) (45,688)(16,270) (10,052)
Income from continuing operations21,555
 35,320
 71,157
 87,435
18,643
 30,594
Discontinued operations:          
Operating income2,719
 5,268
 8,119
 13,843
758
 3,377
Impairment loss
 
 
 (9,587)
Gain on sale of real estate assets26,756
 
 26,756
 
17,830
 
Income from discontinued operations29,475
 5,268
 34,875
 4,256
18,588
 3,377
Net income51,030
 40,588
 106,032
 91,691
37,231
 33,971
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest(4) (4) (12) (12)(4) (4)
Net income attributable to Piedmont$51,026
 $40,584
 $106,020
 $91,679
$37,227
 $33,967
Per share information – basic:       
Income from continuing operations$0.13
 $0.21
 $0.41
 $0.51
Income from discontinued operations0.17
 0.03
 0.20
 0.03
Net income available to common stockholders$0.30
 $0.24
 $0.61
 $0.54
Per share information – diluted:       
Per share information – basic and diluted:   
Income from continuing operations$0.12
 $0.20
 $0.41
 $0.51
$0.11
 $0.18
Income from discontinued operations0.17
 0.03
 0.20
 0.03
0.11
 0.02
Net income available to common stockholders$0.29
 $0.23
 $0.61
 $0.54
$0.22
 $0.20
Weighted-average common shares outstanding – basic172,826,869
 172,658,489
 172,755,805
 170,110,216
172,629,748
 172,658,488
Weighted-average common shares outstanding – diluted173,045,192
 172,885,438
 172,995,849
 170,257,076
172,873,930
 172,954,754
See accompanying notes.

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PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in thousands)
 (Unaudited)
 Three Months Ended
 March 31,
 2012 2011
        
Net income attributable to Piedmont  $37,227
   $33,967
Other comprehensive loss:       
Effective portion of loss on derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges (See Note 5)(748)   (181)  
Less: reclassification of previously recorded loss included in net income (See Note 5)733
 

 407
 

Other comprehensive gain/(loss)  (15)   226
Comprehensive income attributable to Piedmont  $37,212
   $34,193





































See accompanying notes

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PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 20102011
AND FOR THE NINETHREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2011MARCH 31, 2012 (UNAUDITED)
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
 
Common  Stock (1)
 
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
 
Cumulative
Distributions
in Excess of
Earnings
 
Redeemable
Common
Stock
 
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
 
Non-
controlling
Interest
 
Total
Stockholders’
Equity
 Shares Amount 
Balance, December 31, 2009158,917
 $1,589
 $3,477,168
 $(798,561) $(75,164) $(3,866) $5,716
 $2,606,882
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock13,800
 138
 184,266
 
 
 
 
 184,404
Redemption of fractional shares of common stock(200) (2) (2,900) 
 
 
 
 (2,902)
Change in redeemable common stock outstanding
 
 
 
 75,164
 
 
 75,164
Dividends to common stockholders ($1.26 per share), distributions to noncontrolling interest, and dividends reinvested
 
 (33) (216,940) 
 
 (15) (216,988)
Shares issued under the 2007 Omnibus Incentive Plan, net of tax141
 2
 2,807
 
 
 
 
 2,809
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 
 531
 531
Components of comprehensive income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
 
 120,379
 
 
 
 120,379
Net change in interest rate swap
 
 
 
 
 3,175
 
 3,175
Comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 123,554
Balance, December 31, 2010172,658
 1,727
 3,661,308
 (895,122) 
 (691) 6,232
 2,773,454
Offering costs associated with issuance of common stock
 
 (479) 
 
 
 
 (479)
Dividends to common stockholders ($0.945 per share), distributions to noncontrolling interest, and dividends reinvested
 
 (168) (163,268) 
 
 (2,200) (165,636)
Shares issued under the 2007 Omnibus Incentive Plan, net of tax169
 1
 2,494
 
 
 
 
 2,495
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 
 378
 378
Components of comprehensive income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
 
 106,020
 
 
 
 106,020
Net change in interest rate derivatives
 
 
 
 
 691
 
 691
Comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 106,711
Balance, September 30, 2011172,827
 $1,728
 $3,663,155
 $(952,370) $
 $
 $4,410
 $2,716,923
 Common  Stock 
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
 
Cumulative
Distributions
in Excess of
Earnings
 
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
 
Non-
controlling
Interest
 
Total
Stockholders’
Equity
 Shares Amount 
Balance, December 31, 2010172,658
 $1,727
 $3,661,308
 $(895,122) $(691) $6,232
 $2,773,454
Stock repurchases as part of an announced program(199) (2) 
 (3,242) 
 
 (3,244)
Offering costs associated with the issuance of common stock
 
 (479) 
 
 
 (479)
Attribution of asset sales proceeds to noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 (2,684) (2,684)
Dividends to common stockholders ($1.2600 per share), distributions to noncontrolling interest, and dividends reinvested
 
 (249) (217,709) 
 (2,407) (220,365)
Shares issued under the 2007 Omnibus Incentive Plan, net of tax171
 1
 3,082
 
 
 
 3,083
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 468
 468
Net income attributable to Piedmont
 
 
 225,041
 
 
 225,041
Other comprehensive loss
 
 
 
 (1,846) 
 (1,846)
Balance, December 31, 2011172,630
 1,726
 3,663,662
 (891,032) (2,537) 1,609
 2,773,428
Dividends to common stockholders ($0.20 per share), distributions to noncontrolling interest, and dividends reinvested
 
 (43) (34,526) 
 
 (34,569)
Amortization of unvested shares granted under the 2007 Omnibus Incentive Plan
 
 583
 
 
 
 583
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 4
 4
Net income attributable to Piedmont
 
 
 37,227
 
 
 37,227
Other comprehensive loss
 
 
 
 (15) 
 (15)
Balance, March 31, 2012172,630
 $1,726
 $3,664,202
 $(888,331) $(2,552) $1,613
 $2,776,658

(1)

See Note 12 for further detail regarding Piedmont's conversion of Common Stock.
See accompanying notes

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PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands) 
(Unaudited)(Unaudited)
Nine Months EndedThree Months Ended
September 30,March 31,
2011 20102012 2011
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:      
Net income$106,032
 $91,691
$37,231
 $33,971
Operating distributions received from unconsolidated joint ventures2,289
 3,379
788
 1,158
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Income attributable to noncontrolling interest- discontinued operations366
 397

 119
Depreciation82,660
 77,804
27,606
 27,022
Amortization of deferred financing costs, fair market value adjustments on notes payable, and interest rate cap agreements4,126
 1,996
Amortization of deferred financing costs803
 607
Other amortization43,316
 31,964
12,485
 11,938
Impairment loss
 9,587
Accretion of notes receivable discount(482) (1,928)
 (482)
Stock compensation expense2,975
 2,458
334
 968
Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures(1,032) (2,003)(170) (209)
Gain on sale of real estate assets(26,756) 
(17,832) 
Gain on consolidation of variable interest entity(1,532) 

 (1,920)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
 

  
Increase in tenant receivables, net(9,690) (1,578)
(Increase)/decrease in tenant receivables, net(3,216) 1,309
Increase in restricted cash and escrows(15,792) (7,819)(16,069) (3,462)
Increase in prepaid expenses and other assets(4,864) (8,994)(2,659) (982)
Increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses1,823
 7,520
Decrease in deferred income(7,250) (624)
Decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses(6,101) (8,165)
Increase/(decrease) in deferred income4,709
 (337)
Net cash provided by operating activities176,189
 203,850
37,909
 61,535
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:      
Investments in real estate assets and related intangibles(175,322) (41,378)(13,075) (29,125)
Cash assumed upon consolidation of variable interest entity5,063
 

 5,063
Net sales proceeds from wholly-owned properties68,041
 
24,839
 
Net sales proceeds from unconsolidated joint ventures3,036
 
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures(151) (29)
 (126)
Deferred lease costs paid(27,409) (10,524)(5,874) (12,381)
Net cash used in investing activities(126,742) (51,931)
Net cash provided by/(used in) investing activities5,890
 (36,569)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:      
Deferred financing costs paid(1,401) (669)(12) 
Proceeds from line of credit and notes payable469,000
 
49,000
 15,000
Repayments of line of credit and notes payable(392,000) (114,000)(169,000) 
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock
 185,763
Redemption of fractional shares of common stock
 (2,918)
Costs of issuance of common stock(229) 
Dividends paid and discount on dividend reinvestments(165,636) (162,560)(34,569) (54,533)
Net cash used in financing activities(90,037) (94,384)(154,810) (39,533)
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents(40,590) 57,535
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents(111,011) (14,567)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period56,718
 10,004
139,690
 56,718
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period$16,128
 $67,539
$28,679
 $42,151
Supplemental Disclosures of Significant Noncash Investing and Financing Activities:      
Change in accrued offering costs$479
 $1,370
Change in accrued offering costs related to issuance of common stock$
 $479
Accrued capital expenditures and deferred lease costs$9,395
 $1,249
$4,410
 $3,240
Net assets assumed upon consolidation of variable interest entity, net of notes receivable previously recorded$188,283
 $
$
 $188,233
Liabilities assumed upon consolidation of variable interest entity$191,814
 $
$
 $191,376
Redeemable common stock$
 $75,164
See accompanying notes

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PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
CONDENSED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2011March 31, 2012
(unaudited)

1.Organization
Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc. (“Piedmont”) (NYSE: PDM) is a Maryland corporation that operates in a manner so as to qualify as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) for federal income tax purposes and engages in the acquisition and ownership of commercial real estate properties throughout the United States, including properties that are under construction, are newly constructed, or have operating histories. Piedmont was incorporated in 1997 and commenced operations onin June 5,of 1998. Piedmont conducts business primarily through Piedmont Operating Partnership, L.P. (“Piedmont OP”), a Delaware limited partnership, as well as performing the management of its buildings through two wholly-owned subsidiaries, Piedmont Government Services, LLC and Piedmont Office Management, LLC. Piedmont is the sole general partner of Piedmont OP and possesses full legal control and authority over the operations of Piedmont OP. Piedmont OP owns properties directly, through wholly-owned subsidiaries, and through both consolidated and unconsolidated joint ventures. References to Piedmont herein shall include Piedmont and all of its subsidiaries, including Piedmont OP and its subsidiaries and joint ventures.

As of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, Piedmont owned interests in 7975 office properties, plus five buildings owned through unconsolidated joint ventures and two industrial buildings. Our 7975 office properties are located in 1817 metropolitan areas across the United States. These office properties comprise approximately 21.820.6 million square feet of primarily Class A commercial office space, and were approximately 86.4%84.4% leased as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012.

2.Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements of Piedmont have been prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X, and do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, the statements for the unaudited interim periods presented include all adjustments, which are of a normal and recurring nature, necessary for a fair presentation of the results for such periods. Results for these interim periods are not necessarily indicative of a full year’s results and certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period financial statement presentation, specifically relating to (i) the required presentation of income from discontinued operations for the 111 Sylvan Avenue Building (sold in December 2010), the Eastpointe Corporate Center (sold in July 2011), the 5000 Corporate Court Buildingbuilding (sold in August 2011), the 35 West Wacker Drive building (sold in December 2011), and the 35 W. Wacker Building (under contract as of September 30, 2011 and expected to be sold during the fourth quarter of 2011), (ii) the disclosure of Restricted cash and escrows, which was formerly a component of Prepaid expenses and other assets, and (iii) the reclassification of Class A and Class B common shares as Common Stock (seePortland Portfolio (sold in March 2012, see Note 12 for further detail)9). Piedmont’s consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Piedmont, Piedmont’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, any variable interest entity of which Piedmont or any of its wholly-owned subsidiaries is considered the primary beneficiary, or any entity in which Piedmont or any of its wholly-owned subsidiaries owns a controlling interest. For further information, refer to the financial statements and footnotes included in Piedmont’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20102011.

Further, Piedmont has formed special purpose entities to acquire and hold real estate. Each special purpose entity is a separate legal entity and consequently the assets of the special purpose entities are not available to all creditors of Piedmont. The assets owned by these special purpose entities are being reported on a consolidated basis with Piedmont’s assets for financial reporting purposes only.

Income Taxes

Piedmont has elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and has operated as such, beginning with its taxable year ended December 31, 1998. To qualify as a REIT, Piedmont must meet certain organizational and operational requirements, including a requirement to distribute at least 90% of its annual REIT taxable income. As a REIT, Piedmont is generally not subject to federal income taxes. Piedmont is subject to certain taxes related to the operations of properties in certain locations, as well as operations conducted by its taxable REIT subsidiary, which have been provided for in the financial statements.

Goodwill

Goodwill is the excess of cost of an acquired entity over the amounts specifically assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed in purchase accounting for business combinations. Piedmont tests the carrying value of its goodwill for impairment on an annual

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Interest Rate Cap Agreements

Piedmont periodically enters into interest rate cap agreementsbasis, or on an interim basis if an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. Such interim circumstances may include, but are not limited to, limit its exposure to changing interest rates on its variable rate debt instruments. As required by GAAP, Piedmont records all interest rate caps on the balance sheet at estimated fair value as a component of Prepaid expenses and other assets. For interest rate caps designated as cash flow hedges, Piedmont reassesses the effectiveness of its interest rate caps on a regular basis to determine if they continue to be highly effective and also to determine if the forecasted transactions remain highly probable. Thesignificant adverse changes in fair value of interest rate caps designated as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income (“OCI”), and the option purchase premium is amortized (reclassified from OCI to interest expense) over the life of the hedging relationship as the hedged forecasted transactions affect earnings. The reclassification is based on a schedule created at the inception of the hedge, which allocates the purchase price to the future periods the hedge is expected to benefit, based on fair value as of the inception of the hedging relationship. Due to the complexities of cash flow hedge accounting, Piedmont evaluates the cost-benefit relationship between the size of the related interest rate cap agreements and the exposure to potential fluctuationslegal factors or in the fairgeneral business climate, adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, the loss of key personnel, or persistent declines in an entity’s stock price below carrying value of the interest rate caps in order to determine if effective hedge accounting will be pursued.entity. In cases where the benefit does not outweigh the costs, Piedmont elects to use mark-to-market accounting, which adjusts the interest rate cap agreements to estimated fair value through earnings on a quarterly basis. Currently, Piedmont does not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In MaySeptember 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued an update related to Accounting Standards Codification Topic Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820”) which converges GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") definition of “fair value”, the requirements for measuring amounts at fair value, and disclosures about these measurements. The update does not require additional fair value measurements and is not intended to establish valuation standards or affect valuation practices outside of financial reporting. The adoption of this update to ASC 820 is effective for Piedmont beginning with its first quarter 2012 interim financial statements and is not expected to have a material impact on Piedmont's consolidated financial statements or disclosures.

In June 2011, the FASB issued a new requirement related to the presentation of Comprehensive Income ("ASC 220") intended to converge how other comprehensive income ("OCI") is presented under GAAP and IFRS. ASC 220 gives an entity the option to present OCI information in either a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements, but eliminates the presentation of OCI in the statement of stockholders' equity. The adoption of ASC 220 is effective for Piedmont beginning with its first quarter 2012 interim financial statements and, as the requirement pertains to disclosure only, is not expected to have a material impact on Piedmont's consolidated financial statements.

In September 2011, the FASB issued an amendment to ASC 350 regarding the testing of goodwill for impairment.impairment effective for Piedmont on January 1, 2012. Under the amended guidance, companies havePiedmont has the option, should it chose to do so, to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of athe reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, a companyPiedmont concludes that the estimated fair value is greater than the carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary. The adoptionHowever, if Piedmont chooses to forgo the availability of the amendmentqualitative analysis, the test prescribed by authoritative accounting guidance is a two-step test. The first step involves comparing the estimated fair value of the entity to ASC 350its carrying value, including goodwill. Fair value is effectivedetermined by adjusting the trading price of the stock for Piedmont beginning withvarious factors including, but not limited to: (i) liquidity or transferability considerations, (ii) control premiums, and/or (iii) fully distributed premiums, if necessary, multiplied by the 2012 fiscal year, except forcommon shares outstanding. If such calculated fair value exceeds the specific requirement to present items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income alongside their respective components of net income and other comprehensive income, which has been deferred. Early adoption of this amendmentcarrying value, no further procedures or analysis is permitted or required. However, if the carrying value exceeds the calculated fair value, goodwill is potentially impaired and step two of the analysis would be required. Step two of the test involves calculating the implied fair value of goodwill by deducting the fair value of all tangible and intangible net assets of the entity from the entity’s fair value calculated in step one of the test. If the implied value of the goodwill (the remainder left after deducting the fair values of the entity from its calculated overall fair value in step one of the test) is not expected to have a material impact on Piedmont's consolidated financial statements or disclosures.less than the carrying value of goodwill, an impairment loss would be recognized.

3.Acquisitions
During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011, Piedmont purchased the 1200 Enclave Parkway Building in Houston, Texas, the Dupree Building in Atlanta, Georgia, the Medici Building, also in Atlanta, Georgia, and the 225 and 235 Presidential Way Buildings in Woburn, Massachusetts. In addition, Piedmont also acquired the 500 W. Monroe Building located in downtown Chicago, Illinois through a foreclosure sale related to certain notes receivable previously held by Piedmont (see Note 4 for a more complete description of this transaction). No additional purchase consideration was required to acquire the 500 W. Monroe Building interests. Piedmont funded the other acquisitions listed above with proceeds from its $500 Million Unsecured Facility, the proceeds from certain dispositions of wholly-owned and unconsolidated joint venture properties, and cash on hand.


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Property
Metropolitan
Statistical
Area
 Acquisition Date 
Number of
Buildings
 
Rentable
Square
Feet
 
Percentage
Occupied
as of
Acquisition Date
 
Acquisition
Price
(in millions)
 
1200 Enclave Parkway BuildingHouston, TX March 30, 2011 1
 149,654 18% $18.5
 
The Dupree BuildingAtlanta, GA April 29, 2011 1
 137,818 83% $20.5
 
The Medici BuildingAtlanta, GA June 7, 2011 1
 152,221 22% $13.2
 
The 225 and 235 Presidential Way BuildingsBoston, MA September 13, 2011 2
 440,130 100% $85.3
 
500 W. Monroe BuildingChicago, IL March 31, 2011 1
 962,361 67% $227.5
(1) 

(1)
3.
Represents the estimated fair value of real estate assets acquired as recorded in Piedmont’s accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of the acquisition date.Tenant and Notes Receivable

Tenant and notes receivables as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively, were comprised of the following (in thousands):

 March 31, 2012 December 31, 2011
Tenant receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $514 and $631 as of March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively$24,932
 $24,722
Cumulative rental revenue recognized on a straight-line basis in excess of cash received in accordance with lease terms106,723
 104,801
Notes receivable received in conjunction with real estate asset sale (See Note 9)19,000
 
Tenant and notes receivable, net$150,655
 $129,523

4.Notes Receivable
Notes receivable as of December 31, 2010 consisted solely of Piedmont’s two investments in mezzanine debt, both of which were secured by pledges of equity interests in the ownership of the 500 W. Monroe Building.
During the year ended December 31, 2010, one of the two notes matured but was not repaid and was therefore declared to be in maturity default. Piedmont initiated foreclosure proceedings and on March 31, 2011, Piedmont was the successful bidder at a UCC foreclosure sale allowing Piedmont to obtain control of the property, resulting in the extinguishment of other third-party loans that were subordinate to the secured position upon which Piedmont foreclosed.
As a result of obtaining control of the property, Piedmont is now considered the primary beneficiary of the variable interest entity (“VIE”) containing the 500 W. Monroe Building, subject to a $140.0 million first mortgage loan secured by the building, and a $45.0 million mezzanine loan collateralized by an equity ownership interest in the borrower under the mezzanine loan. (See Note 5 for information regarding the $140.0 million first mortgage loan and $45.0 million mezzanine loan.) As such, Piedmont recorded the fair value of all of the assets and liabilities associated with the 500 W. Monroe Building, the remaining outstanding debt payable to third party lenders, and the interest rate cap agreements associated with the assumed debt in its consolidated financial statements in March 2011. The consolidation of the VIE resulted in an approximate $1.5 million non-cash gain which is reflected in Piedmont’s results of operations for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011. Additionally, Piedmont recognized approximately $2.6 million in other income during the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 related to cash representing the building’s operating cash flow during the period between the original default date in August 2010, and the consummation of the foreclosure process on March 31, 2011. Such income had been deferred due to the ownership uncertainties associated with legal actions related to the foreclosure proceedings.

5.Line of Credit and Notes Payable
During the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, Piedmont exercised its extension option to extend the maturity date ofincurred net borrowings on the $500 Million Million Unsecured Facility by one year toof approximately August 30,$20.0 million. On January 9, 2012 and exercised its extension options to extend the maturity dates of, Piedmont fully repaid the $140.0140 Million Million 500 W. Monroe Mortgage Loan andLoan. Finally, on May 1, 2012, Piedmont repaid in full the balance outstanding on the $45.0 Million Million 500 W. Monroe Mezzanine 1-AFixed-Rate Loan Participation to August 9, 2012.

On September 20, 2011, Piedmont entered into an agreement to sell its interest in the office property known as the 35 W. Wacker Building in Chicago, Illinois. The property is encumbered by a mortgage note, which will be assumedsecured by the purchaser as part4250 N. Fairfax building in advance of the transaction. In accordance with GAAP, Piedmont included the note payable in the disposal group of assets and liabilities presented as held for sale on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2011. See Note 10 for additional information.its scheduled maturity.

Piedmont made interest payments on all debt facilities, including interest rate swap cash settlements related to Piedmont’s $250 Million Unsecured Term Loan,certain of its debt facilities, totaling approximately $16.815.8 million and $16.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and $50.1 million and $53.015.9 million for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 and 20102011, respectively.


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See Note 8 below7 for a description of Piedmont’s estimated fair value of debt as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012.

The following table summarizes the terms of Piedmont’s indebtedness outstanding as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 and December 31, 20102011 (in thousands):

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Facility Collateral 
Rate(1)
 Maturity Amount Outstanding as of Collateral 
Rate(1)
 Maturity Amount Outstanding as of
September 30,
2011
 December 31,
2010
March 31,
2012
 December 31,
2011
Secured      
Secured (Fixed)      
$45.0 Million Fixed-Rate Loan 4250 N. Fairfax 5.20% 6/1/2012 $45,000
  $45,000
 4250 N. Fairfax 5.20% 6/1/2012 $45,000
(2) 
$45,000
$200.0 Million Mortgage Note Aon Center 4.87% 5/1/2014 200,000
  200,000
 Aon Center 4.87% 5/1/2014 200,000
  200,000
$25.0 Million Mortgage Note Aon Center 5.70% 5/1/2014 25,000
  25,000
 Aon Center 5.70% 5/1/2014 25,000
  25,000
$350.0 Million Secured Pooled Facility 
Nine Property Collateralized
Pool (2)
 4.84% 6/7/2014 350,000
  350,000
 
Nine Property Collateralized
Pool (3)
 4.84% 6/7/2014 350,000
  350,000
$105.0 Million Fixed-Rate Loan US Bancorp Center 5.29% 5/11/2015 105,000
  105,000
 US Bancorp Center 5.29% 5/11/2015 105,000
  105,000
$125.0 Million Fixed-Rate Loan 
Four Property Collateralized
Pool (3)
 5.50% 4/1/2016 125,000
  125,000
 
Four Property Collateralized
Pool (4)
 5.50% 4/1/2016 125,000
  125,000
$42.5 Million Fixed-Rate Loan 
Las Colinas Corporate
Center I & II
 5.70% 10/11/2016 42,525
  42,525
 
Las Colinas Corporate
Center I & II
 5.70% 10/11/2016 42,525
  42,525
$140.0 Million WDC Mortgage Notes 1201 & 1225 Eye Street 5.76% 11/1/2017 140,000
  140,000
 1201 & 1225 Eye Street 5.76% 11/1/2017 140,000
  140,000
$140.0 Million 500 W. Monroe Mortgage Loan 500 W. Monroe LIBOR +  1.008%
(4) 
8/9/2012 140,000
  
 500 W. Monroe LIBOR +  1.008%
 8/9/2012 
  140,000
$45.0 Million 500 W. Monroe Mezzanine I Loan- A Participation 500 W. Monroe LIBOR +  1.45%
(4) 
8/9/2012 45,000
  
Subtotal/Weighted Average (5)
 4.59% 1,217,525
  1,032,525
 5.17% 1,032,525
  1,172,525
Unsecured      
$250 Million Unsecured Term Loan LIBOR +  1.50%
 6/28/2011 
  250,000
Unsecured (Variable)      
$300 Million Unsecured Term Loan LIBOR +  1.45%
(6) 
11/22/2016 300,000
  300,000
$500 Million Unsecured Facility 0.84%
(6) 
8/30/2012 327,000
 
 0.73%
(7) 
8/30/2012 20,000
 
Subtotal/Weighted Average (5)
 0.84% 327,000
  250,000
 2.57% 320,000
  300,000
Total/ Weighted Average (5)
 3.79% $1,544,525
  $1,282,525
 4.55% $1,352,525
  $1,472,525

(1) 
All of Piedmont’s outstanding debt as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 and December 31, 20102011 is interest-only debt.
(2)
Repaid in full on May 1, 2012.
(3) 
Nine property collateralized pool includes: 1200 Crown Colony Drive, Braker Pointe III, 2 Gatehall Drive, One and Two Independence Square, 2120 West End Avenue, 400 Bridgewater Crossing, 200 Bridgewater Crossing, and Fairway Center II.
(3)(4) 
Four property collateralized pool includes 1430 Enclave Parkway, Windy Point I and II, and 1055 East Colorado Boulevard.
(4)
Subject to interest rate cap agreements, which limit Piedmont’s exposure to potential increases in the LIBOR rate to 2.19%.
(5) 
Weighted average is based on contractual balance of outstanding debt and interest rates in the table as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012. As such, the following metrics would change to 4.63% for the weighted average interest rate of secured debt, and 3.89% for the weighted average interest rate of all outstanding debt if the note payable included in the disposal group of assets and liabilities held for sale (related to the 35 W. Wacker Building) was included in the calculations.
(6) 
The $300 Million Unsecured Term Loan has a stated variable rate; however, Piedmont entered into interest rate swap agreements which effectively fix, exclusive of changes to Piedmont's credit rating, the rate on this facility to 2.69%.
(7)
Piedmont may select from multiple interest rate options with each draw, including the prime rate and various-length LIBOR locks. All LIBOR selections are subject to an additional spread (0.475% as of March 31, 2012) over the selected rate based on Piedmont’s current credit rating. The outstanding balance as of March 31, 2012 consisted of a LIBOR draw at 0.25% (subject to the additional spread mentioned above).

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Table of Contents

locks. All LIBOR selections are subject to an additional spread (0.475% as of September 30, 2011) over the selected rate based on Piedmont’s current credit rating. The outstanding balance as of September 30, 2011 consisted of several LIBOR draws ranging between 0.23% and 0.24% (subject to the additional spread mentioned above) as well as a draw subject to the prime rate which was 3.25% at that time.

6.5.Derivative Instruments
Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives

In addition to operational risks which arise in the normal course of business, Piedmont is exposed to economic risks such as interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk. In certain situations, Piedmont has entered into derivative financial instruments such as interest rate swap agreements and interest rate cap agreements to manage interest rate risk exposure arising from variable rate debt transactions

12

Table of Contents

that result in the receipt or payment of future known and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which is determined by interest rates. Piedmont’s objective in using interest rate derivatives is to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements.

Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable-rate amounts from a counterparty in exchange for Piedmont making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount. Interest rate caps also may be used as cash flow hedges and involve payment to a counterparty in exchange for establishing a maximum rate which will not be exceeded, despite market conditions to the contrary.

During the ninethree months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, Piedmont used interest rate swap agreements to hedge the variable cash flows associated with its $250300 Million Million Unsecured Term Loan that matured on June 28, 2011. Additionally, Piedmont recorded the two interest rate cap agreements used to hedge the variable cash flows associated with the 500 W. Monroe Loans at foreclosure on March 31, 2011, and designated the cap agreements as effective cash flow hedges. Such interest rate caps were in place through the original maturity of the debt on August 9, 2011. On July 27, 2011, Piedmont entered into two new interest rate cap agreements associated with the 500 W. Monroe Loans to replace the caps that matured at the same time as the original debt maturity. Due to the immaterial size of the agreements, Piedmont elected to account for the agreements under mark-to-market accounting, which adjusts the value of the agreements to estimated fair value on a quarterly basis through earnings. As such, Piedmont recognized approximately $44,000 of expense related to mark-to-market accounting on the replacement interest rate caps during the three months endedSeptember 30, 2011.

A detail ofLoan. Piedmont’s interest rate derivativesswap agreements outstanding as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 iswere as follows:
 
Interest Rate Derivative
Notional Amount
(in millions)
 Effective Date Maturity Date 
Notional Amount
(in millions)
 Effective Date Maturity Date
Interest rate cap$140
 8/15/2011 8/15/2012
(1)  
Interest rate cap62
(2)  
8/15/2011 8/15/2012
(1)  
Interest rate swap$125
 11/22/2011 11/22/2016
Interest rate swap75
 11/22/2011 11/22/2016
Interest rate swap50
 11/22/2011 11/22/2016
Interest rate swap50
 11/22/2011 11/22/2016
Total$202
 $300
 

(1)
Mirrors the monthly interest accrual period of the 500 W. Monroe Loans.
(2)
Interest rate cap agreement is inclusive of both the $45.0 Million 500 W. Monroe Mezzanine I Loan- A Participation payable to an unrelated third-party, as well as the loan participation formerly owned by Piedmont as a note receivable.

All of Piedmont's interest rate derivativeswap agreements outstanding through August 9, 2011for the periods presented were designated as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as, and that qualify as, cash flow hedges is recorded in OCI and is subsequently reclassified into earnings as interest expense in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. As mentioned above, Piedmont elected to account for the two replacement interest rate cap agreements related to the 500 W. Monroe Loans under the mark-to-market method of accounting.

The effective portion of Piedmont’s derivative financial instruments (interestinterest rate caps and swaps)swaps that was recorded in the accompanying consolidated statements of income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 and 20102011, respectively, iswas as follows (in thousands):follows:


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Table of Contents

Three Months Ended Nine Months EndedThree Months Ended
Derivative in
Cash Flow Hedging
Relationships (Interest Rate Swaps and Caps)
September 30,
2011
 September 30,
2010
 September 30,
2011
 September 30,
2010
Derivative in
Cash Flow Hedging
Relationships (Interest Rate Swaps) (in thousands)
March 31,
2012
 March 31,
2011
Amount of loss recognized in OCI on derivative$
 $637
 $204
 $1,483
$748
 $181
Amount of previously recorded loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into interest expense$(44) $(350) $(895) $(4,321)$(733) $(407)


Piedmont estimates that an additional $2.6 million will be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss as an increase to interest expense over the next twelve months. No gain or loss was recognized related to hedge ineffectiveness or to amounts excluded from effectiveness testing on Piedmont’s cash flow hedges during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 or 20102011, respectively.

The fair value of Piedmont’s interest rate swap agreements outstanding as of December 31, 2010 that were designated as hedging instruments under GAAP was approximately $0.7 million and is presented as “Interest Rate Swap” in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The fair value of Piedmont’s interest rate cap agreements as of September 30, 2011 was approximately $3,000, and is recorded on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as a component of Prepaid and other assets.

Please see the accompanying statements of stockholders’ equity for a rollforward of Piedmont’s Other Comprehensive Loss account. Additionally, see Note 7 for fair value disclosures of Piedmont's interest rate swap derivatives.

Credit-risk-related Contingent Features

Piedmont has agreements with its derivative counterparties that contain a provision whereby if Piedmont defaults on any of its indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then Piedmont could also be declared in default on its derivative obligation. If Piedmont breached any of the contractual provisions of the derivative contracts, it would be required to settle its obligations under the agreements at their termination value of the fair values plus accrued interest, or approximately $2.6 million.

7.6.Variable Interest Entities
Variable interest holders who have the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and have the obligation to absorb the majority of losses of the entity or the right to receive significant benefits of the entity are considered to be the primary beneficiary and must consolidate the VIE.

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A summary of Piedmont’s interests in and consolidation treatment of its VIEs as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 is as follows (net carrying amount in millions):


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Entity 
Piedmont’s
%
Ownership
of Entity
 
Related
Building
 
Consolidated/
Unconsolidated
 
Net Carrying
Amount as of
September 30,
2011
 
Net Carrying
Amount as of
December 31,
2010
 
Primary Beneficiary
Considerations
 
Piedmont’s
%
Ownership
of Entity
 
Related
Building
 
Consolidated/
Unconsolidated
 
Net Carrying
Amount as of
March 31,
2012
 
Net Carrying
Amount as of
December 31,
2011
 
Primary Beneficiary
Considerations
1201 Eye Street NW Associates, LLC 49.5% 1201 Eye Street Consolidated $(1.6) $0.3
 In accordance with the partnership’s governing documents, Piedmont is entitled to 100% of the cash flow of the entity and has sole discretion in directing the management and leasing activities of the building. 49.5% 1201 Eye Street Consolidated $(2.8) $(1.6) In accordance with the partnership’s governing documents, Piedmont is entitled to 100% of the cash flow of the entity and has sole discretion in directing the management and leasing activities of the building.
1225 Eye Street NW Associates, LLC 49.5% 1225 Eye Street Consolidated $1.1
 $1.9
 In accordance with the partnership’s governing documents, Piedmont is entitled to 100% of the cash flow of the entity and has sole discretion in directing the management and leasing activities of the building. 49.5% 1225 Eye Street Consolidated $(0.5) $0.6
 In accordance with the partnership’s governing documents, Piedmont is entitled to 100% of the cash flow of the entity and has sole discretion in directing the management and leasing activities of the building.
Wells REIT Multi-State Owner, LLC 100% 1200 Crown Colony Drive Consolidated $30.6
 $28.0
 In accordance with a tenant's lease, if Piedmont sells the property on or before March 2013, then the tenant would be entitled to an equity participation fee.
Piedmont 500 W. Monroe Fee, LLC 100% 500 W. Monroe Consolidated $43.7
 N/A
 The Omnibus Agreement with the previous owner includes equity participation rights for the previous owner, if certain financial returns are achieved; however, Piedmont has sole decision making authority and is entitled to the economic benefits of the property until such returns are met. 100% 500 W. Monroe Consolidated $207.0
 $76.9
 The Omnibus Agreement with the previous owner includes equity participation rights for the previous owner, if certain financial returns are achieved; however, Piedmont has sole decision making authority and is entitled to the economic benefits of the property until such returns are met.
Suwanee
Gateway One, LLC
 100% Suwanee Gateway One Consolidated $7.7
 $7.8
 The fee agreement includes equity participation rights for the incentive manager, if certain returns on investment are achieved; however, Piedmont has sole decision making authority and is entitled to the economic benefits of the property until such returns are met. 100% Suwanee Gateway One Consolidated $7.6
 $7.7
 The fee agreement includes equity participation rights for the incentive manager, if certain returns on investment are achieved; however, Piedmont has sole decision making authority and is entitled to the economic benefits of the property until such returns are met.
Medici Atlanta, LLC 100% The Medici Building Consolidated $13.0
 N/A
 The fee agreement includes equity participation rights for the incentive manager, if certain returns on investment are achieved; however, Piedmont has sole decision making authority and is entitled to the economic benefits of the property until such returns are met. 100% The Medici Consolidated $13.5
 $13.0
 The fee agreement includes equity participation rights for the incentive manager, if certain returns on investment are achieved; however, Piedmont has sole decision making authority and is entitled to the economic benefits of the property until such returns are met.
400 TownPark, LLC 100% 400 TownPark Consolidated $24.1
 $23.7
 The fee agreement includes equity participation rights for the incentive manager, if certain returns on investment are achieved; however, Piedmont has sole decision making authority and is entitled to the economic benefits of the property until such returns are met.

Each of the VIEs described above has the sole purpose of holding office buildings and their resulting operations, and are classified in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets in the same manner as Piedmont’s other wholly-owned properties.

8.7.Fair Value Measurement of Financial Instruments
Piedmont considers its cash, accounts receivable, notes receivable, accounts payable, interest rate swap agreements, interest rate cap agreements, and line of credit and notes payable to meet the definition of financial instruments. The following table sets forth the carrying and estimated fair value for each of Piedmont’s financial instruments as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 and December 31, 20102011 (in thousands):


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As of September 30, 2011 As of December 31, 2010As of March 31, 2012 As of December 31, 2011
Financial InstrumentCarrying Value Estimated Fair Value Carrying Value Estimated Fair ValueCarrying Value Estimated Fair Value Level Within Fair Value Hierarchy Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value
Assets:       
Cash and cash equivalents(1)
$16,128
 $16,128
 $56,718
 $56,718
$28,679
 $28,679
 Level 1 $139,690
 $139,690
Tenant receivables, net(1)(2)
$142,884
 $142,884
 $134,006
 $134,006
Tenant and notes receivable, net(1)
$43,932
 $43,932
 Level 1 $24,722
 $24,722
Liabilities:       
Accounts payable(1)
$13,521
 $13,521
 $15,763
 $15,763
$15,123
 $15,123
 Level 1 $14,637
 $14,637
Interest rate swap agreements$
 $
 $691
 $691
$2,552
 $2,552
 Level 2 $2,537
 $2,537
Interest rate cap agreements$3
 $3
 N/A
 N/A
Line of credit and notes payable(2)
$1,664,525
 $1,722,246
 $1,402,525
 $1,428,255
Line of credit and notes payable$1,352,525
 $1,408,637
 Level 2 $1,472,525
 $1,529,811

(1) 
For the periods presented, the carrying value approximates estimated fair value.
(2)

Piedmont's line of credit and notes payable is carried at book value as of March 31, 2012; however, Piedmont's estimate of its fair value is disclosed in the table above. Piedmont uses widely accepted valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis based on the contractual terms of the debt facilities, including the period to maturity of each instrument, and uses observable market-based inputs for similar debt facilities which have transacted recently in the market. Therefore, the fair values determined are considered to be based on significant other observable inputs (Level 2). Scaling adjustments are made to these inputs to make them applicable to the remaining life of Piedmont's outstanding debt. Piedmont has not changed its valuation technique for estimating the fair value of its line of credit and notes payable.
For the periods presented, the carrying value and estimated fair value includes assets and liabilities held for sale.

Piedmont’s interest rate capswap agreements discussed in Note 65 above were adjustedclassified as “Interest rate swap” liability in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and carried at fair value as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, and Piedmont's interest rate swap agreement also discussed in Note 6 above was adjusted and carried at fair value as of December 31, 2010. The interest rate swap and interest rate cap agreements were classified as “Interest rate swap” liability and as a component of “Prepaid expenses and other assets”, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.2011. The valuation of these derivative instruments for both types of agreements, was determined using widely accepted valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis based on the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity of each instrument, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and implied volatilities. Therefore, the fair values determined are considered to be based on significant other observable inputs (Level 2). In addition, as related to the interest rate swap agreements, Piedmont considered both its own and the respective counterparties’ risk of nonperformance in determining the fair value of its derivative financial instruments by estimating the current and potential future exposure under the derivative financial instruments that both Piedmont and the counterparties were at risk for as of the valuation date. This total expected exposure was then discounted using factors that contemplate the creditworthinessThe credit risk of Piedmont and its counterparties was factored into the counterparties to arrive at a credit charge. This credit charge was then netted against the valuecalculation of the derivative financial instruments determined using the discounted cash flow analysis described above to arrive at a total estimated fair value of the interest rate swap agreements. Asswaps; however, as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 and December 31, 20102011, thethis credit valuation adjustment did not comprise a material portion of the estimated fair values of the derivative financial instruments; therefore,value. Therefore, Piedmont believes that any unobservable inputs used to determine the fair values of its derivative financial instruments are not significant to the fair value measurements in their entirety, and does not consider eitherany of its derivative financial instruments to be Level 3 liabilities.

9.8.Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments Under Existing Agreements

Certain lease agreements include provisions that, at the option of the tenant, may obligate Piedmont to provide funding for capital improvements. Under its existing lease agreements, Piedmont may be required to fund significant tenant improvements, leasing commissions, and building improvements. In addition, certain agreements contain provisions that require Piedmont to issue corporate or property guarantees to provide funding for capital improvements or other financial obligations. As of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, Piedmont anticipates funding approximately $145.3137.3 million (approximately $34.6 million relates to tenants at the 35 W. Wacker Building which is held for sale) in potential obligations for tenant improvements related to its existing lease portfolio over the respective lease terms, the majority of which Piedmont estimates may be required to be funded over the next fiveseveral years. For most of Piedmont’s leases, the timing of the actual funding of these tenant improvements is largely dependent upon tenant requests for reimbursement. In some cases, these obligations may expire with the leases without further recourse to Piedmont.

Contingencies Related to Tenant Audits/Disputes

Certain lease agreements include provisions that grant tenants the right to engage independent auditors to audit their annual operating expense reconciliations. Such audits may result in the re-interpretation of language in the lease agreements which could result in the refund of previously recognized tenant reimbursement revenues, resulting in financial loss to Piedmont. Piedmont recorded additionalNo such reserves related to such tenant audits/disputes of approximatelywere recorded during the $0.1 millionthree months endedMarch 31, 2012 and $45,000 during the three months ended September 30,March 31, 2011 and September 30, 2010, respectively, and recorded reserves of approximately $0.1 million and approximately $0.1 million during the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010, respectively, as adjustments to earnings.respectively.

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Letters of Credit

As of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, Piedmont was subject to the following letters of credit, which reduce the total outstanding capacity under its $500 Million Unsecured Facility:

AmountAmount 
Expiration of Letter of Credit (1)
Amount 
Expiration of Letter of Credit (1)
$382,556
 August 2012382,556
 December 2012
$14,782,820
 February 201214,782,820
 February 2013
$2,006,589
 December 20119,033,164
 June 2012
$9,033,164
 June 2012

(1) 
These letter of credit agreements automatically renew for consecutive, one-year periods each anniversary, subject to the satisfaction of the credit obligation and certain other limitations.
Assertion of Legal Action
Piedmont is currently party to two separate lawsuits, where one of the lead plaintiffs in each lawsuit is the same stockholder. The first suit was filed in March 2007, and, in general, alleges inadequate disclosures pursuant to the federal securities laws against Piedmont’s officers, directors, and advisors in connection with the transaction to internalize its management function and become a self-managed entity. The suit originally contained thirteen counts; however, twelve of those counts have subsequently been dismissed. As of the time of this filing, the parties are preparing for trial, but no trial dateThe suit has been set.removed from the court's trial calendar pending resolution of a request for interlocutory appellate review of certain legal rulings made by the court. Piedmont believes that the allegations contained in the complaint areplaintiff's remaining allegation is without merit and as such,intends to continue to vigorously defend this action; however, due to the uncertainties inherent in any litigation, Piedmont has determined that the risk of material loss associated with this lawsuit is remote. Further,reasonably possible. The plaintiff has claimed damages of approximately $159 million plus pre-judgment interest, which defendants dispute. There are a number of defendants in this case and the allocation of damages, if any, between Piedmont will continue to vigorously defend this action. Dueand any other defendants (including any indemnification rights or obligations of Piedmont with respect to the uncertainties inherent in any litigation process, Piedmont’s assessmentother defendants) is indeterminable at this time. Additionally, up to $13 million of such potential damages may be recoverable by Piedmont under its insurance policies. Therefore, Piedmont estimates the ultimate potential financial impactrange of the case notwithstanding, the risk of financialgross reasonably possible loss does exist.(without regard to allocations or insurance recoveries) associated with this claim to be $0 to $159 million plus pre-judgment interest.
The second lawsuit was filed in October 2007 and originally alleged four counts, including inadequate disclosures pursuant to the federal securities laws. To date, the court has dismissed two of the four counts in their entirety and has dismissed portions of the remaining two counts. On April 11, 2011, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals invalidated the district court’s order certifying a class and remanded the case to the district court for further proceedings. Piedmont believes that theplaintiffs' allegations contained in the complaint are without merit, and as such, has determined that the risk of material loss associated with this lawsuit is remote. Further, Piedmont willintends to continue to vigorously defend this action. Due to the uncertainties inherent in any litigation process, Piedmont’sPiedmont's assessment of the ultimate potential financial impactmerits of the case notwithstanding, the risk of material financial loss does exist.exist; however, given that a class has not yet been established, Piedmont's current assessment of the risk of material financial loss associated with this case is that it is remote. Such assessment is subject to change in future periods as additional legal rulings are made by the court.
Please refer to Part II. Item 1 “Legal Proceedings” for a complete description of the chronology of the two lawsuits.

10.9.Discontinued Operations

On September 20, 2011March 19, 2012, Piedmont entered into an agreement to sell its interest (approximatelysold 96.5%four) in the office propertyproperties known as the 35 W. Wacker BuildingDeschutes building, the Rhein building, the Rogue building, and the Willamette building, as well as 18.19 acres of adjoining, undeveloped land, (collectively the "Portland Portfolio") for approximately $401.043.9 million, with. Piedmont recorded net sales proceeds of approximately $24.8 million and recognized a gain on the sale of approximately $17.8 million. As part of the transaction, Piedmont accepted an expected closing inunsecured promissory note from the fourth quarterbuyer for the remaining $19.0 million owed on the sale at a rate of 2011.8.73% and a maturity date of October 31, 2012. In accordance with GAAP, Piedmont reclassified the building from real estate assets held for use to real estate assets held for sale on its consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2011. As such, Piedmont reclassified the operational results of the propertyPortland Portfolio as income from discontinued operations for prior periods to conform with current period presentation.

On August 31, 2011, Piedmont sold its office property known as 5000 Corporate Court Building in Holtsville, New York, and in accordance with GAAP, Piedmont reclassified the operational results of the property asThe details comprising income from discontinued operations, for prior periods to conform with current period presentation. Piedmont recognized a gain of approximately $14.6 millionand net sales proceeds of approximately $36.3 million onincluding results from the sale ofPortland Portfolio, the Eastpointe Corporate Center building (sold in July 2011), the 5000 Corporate Court Building. However, such gain may change slightlybuilding (sold in future periods pendingAugust 2011), and the completion35 West Wacker Drive building (sold in December 2011), are presented below (in thousands):


16


 Three Months Ended March 31,
 2012 2011
Revenues:   
Rental income$797
 $9,508
Tenant reimbursements231
 5,596
 1,028
 15,104
Expenses:   
Property operating costs106
 6,335
Depreciation153
 1,985
Amortization of deferred leasing costs8
 1,738
General and administrative expenses3
 16
 270
 10,074
Other income (expense):  

Interest expense
 (1,534)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest
 (119)
 
 (1,653)
Operating income, excluding impairment loss and gain on sale758
 3,377
Gain on sale of real estate assets17,830
 
Income from discontinued operations$18,588
 $3,377

10.Stock Based Compensation
Deferred Stock Awards

Piedmont has granted deferred stock awards in the form of restricted stock to its employees. The awards are determined by the Compensation Committee of the board of directors of Piedmont on an annual basis and typically vest over a three-year period beginning on the grant date. In addition, Piedmont has adopted a multi-year performance share program for certain of its employees. Restricted shares are earned based on the relative performance of Piedmont's obligations related to ongoing construction projects attotal stockholder return as compared with a predetermined peer group's total stockholder return over a three-year period. Typically, shares are not awarded until the property.end of the third year in the performance period and vest immediately upon award; however, the inaugural performance share program, which covers the fiscal 2010-2012 performance period, contains three interim performance periods whereby shares may be awarded.

OnA rollforward of Piedmont's deferred stock award activity for the July 1, 2011, Piedmont sold its office property known as Eastpointe Corporate Center in Issaquah, Washington, and in accordance with GAAP, Piedmont reclassified the operational results of the property as income from discontinued operations for prior periods to conform with current period presentation. Piedmont recognized a gain of approximately $12.2 millionthree months ended and net sales proceeds of approximately $31.7 millionMarch 31, 2012 on the sale of the Eastpointe Corporate Center.is as follows:

Additionally, on December 8, 2010, Piedmont sold its office property known as the 111 Sylvan Avenue Building, located in
 Unvested Deferred Stock Awards as of January 1, 2012 Deferred Stock Awards Granted During Three Months Ended March 31, 2012 Deferred Stock Awards Vested During Three Months Ended March 31, 2012 Deferred Stock Awards Forfeited During Three Months Ended March 31, 2012 
Unvested Deferred Stock Awards as of
March 31, 2012
Shares511,203
 (90,891) 
 (1,159) 419,153
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value$19.56
 $19.69
 $
 $19.49
 $19.53


17


Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, and accordingly the operational results of the property for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, including a $9.6 million impairment charge that resulted from adjusting the assets to fair value, are presented as discontinued operations in the accompanying 2010 statement of operations. The fair value measurement used in the evaluation of this non-financial asset was considered to be a Level 1 valuation within the fair value hierarchy as defined by GAAP, as there were direct observations and transactions involving the asset (i.e. the asset was sold to a third-party purchaser).

The details comprising assets held for sale, consisting of the 35 W. Wacker Building, are presented below (in thousands):

  September 30,
2011
 December 31,
2010
Real estate assets held for sale, net:    
Land $55,573
 $55,573
Building and improvements, less accumulated depreciation of $41,754 and $37,442 as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively 167,024
 164,343
Intangible lease assets, less accumulated amortization of $22,725 and $20,549 as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively 3,626
 5,802
Construction in progress 2,673
 2,560
Total real estate assets held for sale, net $228,896
 $228,278
     
Other assets held for sale:    
Tenant receivables $11,790
 $10,737
Deferred financing costs, less accumulated amortization of $169 and $153 as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively 49
 66
Deferred lease costs, less accumulated amortization of $29,353 and $26,055 as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively 24,067
 27,480
Restricted cash and escrows 11,447
 11,661
Total other assets held for sale $47,353
 $49,944
     
Notes payable and other liabilities held for sale:    
Notes payable, secured by 35 W. Wacker Building, at fixed-rate of 5.10%, maturing January 1, 2014 $120,000
 $120,000
Intangible lease liabilities, less accumulated amortization of $25,960 and $23,458 as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively 4,451
 6,954
Total notes payable and other liabilities held for sale $124,451
 $126,954
     
Noncontrolling interest held for sale $2,797
 $4,623

The details comprising income/(loss) from discontinued operations, including results from the 35 W. Wacker Building, the Eastpointe Corporate Center Building, the 5000 Corporate Court Building, and the 111 Sylvan Avenue Building, are presented below (in thousands):


18


 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2011 2010 2011 2010
Revenues:       
Rental income$7,477
 $10,273
 $24,631
 $30,455
Tenant reimbursements3,565
 2,708
 14,303
 14,046
 11,042
 12,981
 38,934
 44,501
Expenses:       
Property operating costs3,403
 2,395
 15,712
 14,637
Depreciation1,516
 1,694
 4,912
 5,541
Amortization of deferred leasing costs1,676
 1,716
 5,093
 5,193
General and administrative expenses45
 171
 80
 195
 6,640
 5,976
 25,797
 25,566
Other income (expense):       
Interest expense(1,568) (1,583) (4,653) (4,697)
Interest and other income16
 
 1
 2
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest(131) (154) (366) (397)
 (1,683) (1,737) (5,018) (5,092)
Operating income, excluding impairment loss and gain on sale$2,719
 $5,268
 $8,119
 $13,843
Impairment loss
 
 
 (9,587)
Gain on sale of real estate assets26,756
 
 26,756
 
Income from discontinued operations$29,475
 $5,268
 $34,875
 $4,256

11.Stock Based Compensation
A detail of Piedmont’s unvestedoutstanding employee deferred stock awards as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 is as follows:

Date of grant
Net  Shares

Granted(1)
 
Grant
Date Fair
Value
 Vesting Schedule 
Unvested Shares as of
September 30, 2011
 Type of Award 
Net Shares
Granted (1)
 
Grant
Date Fair
Value
 Vesting Schedule 
Unvested Shares as of
March 31, 2012
 
May 6, 2009135,564
 $22.20
 Of the shares granted, 25% vested on the date of grant, and 25% vested or will vest on May 6, 2010, 2011, and 2012, respectively. 44,393
 Annual Deferred Stock Award 135,564
 $22.20
 Of the shares granted, 25% vested on the date of grant, and 25% vested or will vest on May 6, 2010, 2011, and 2012, respectively. 44,100
 
May 11, 2010 Fiscal Year 2010-2012 Performance Share Program 27,502
(2) 
$28.44
 Shares vest immediately upon determination of award in 2012 and 2013. 69,316
(3) 
May 24, 2010180,340
 $18.71
 Of the shares granted, 25% vested on the date of grant, and 25% vested or will vest on May 24, 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively. 107,473
 Annual Deferred Stock Award 180,340
 $18.71
 Of the shares granted, 25% vested on the date of grant, and 25% vested or will vest on May 24, 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively. 106,778
 
May 24, 201046,440
 $18.71
 Of the shares granted, 33.33% vested or will vest on May 24, 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively. 35,268
 One-Time Special Deferred Stock Award in Recognition of Piedmont's Initial Public Offering 46,440
 $18.71
 Of the shares granted, 33.33% vested or will vest on May 24, 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively. 34,912
 
April 5, 2011142,468
 $19.40
 Of the shares granted, 25% vested on the date of grant, and 25% will vest on April 5, 2012, 2013, and 2014, respectively. 115,746
 Annual Deferred Stock Award 142,468
 $19.40
 Of the shares granted, 25% vested on the date of grant, and 25% will vest on April 5, 2012, 2013, and 2014, respectively. 113,892
 
April 5, 2011 Fiscal Year 2011-2013 Performance Share Program 
 $18.27
 Shares vest immediately upon determination of award in 2014. 50,155
(3) 
Total    302,880
     419,153
 

(1) 
Amounts reflect the total grant, net of cumulative shares surrendered upon vesting to satisfy required minimum tax withholding obligations through September 30, 2011March 31, 2012.
(2)
Represents net shares granted at the end of the first interim performance period ended December 31, 2010.
(3)
Estimated based on Piedmont's cumulative total stockholder return for the respective performance period through March 31, 2012. Such estimates are subject to change in future periods based on both Piedmont's and its peers' stock performance and dividends paid.

During the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 and 20102011, respectively, Piedmont recognized approximately $1.10.3 million and $1.11.0 million of compensation expense and directors' fees related to stock awards, all of which relates to the amortization of nonvested shares. During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 and 2010, Piedmont recognized approximately $4.8 million and $3.9 million, respectively, of compensation expense and directors' fees for the same stock awards of which $3.7 million and $2.5 million, respectively, related to the amortization of nonvested shares. During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011, 168,502 shares were issued to employees, directors and officers. As of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, approximately $5.81.4 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested, share-based compensation remained, which Piedmont will record in its consolidated statements of income over a weighted-average vesting period of approximately one year.



19


12.Stockholders' Equity
Effective June 30, 2011, the board of directors of Piedmont approved Articles Supplementary and Articles of Amendment to Piedmont's Third Articles of Amendment and Restatement. Together, the Articles Supplementary and Articles of Amendment (1) reclassified and designated all of Piedmont's authorized but unissued shares of Class B Common Stock as Class A Common Stock and then (2) changed the designation of Piedmont's Class A Common Stock to Common Stock. The Articles Supplementary and Articles of Amendment were each filed with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland on June 30, 2011 and were effective upon such filing. As such, Piedmont has effected the reclassification of the authorized and outstanding Class A and B shares to Common Stock for all periods presented.

13.11.Earnings Per Share

There are no adjustments to “Net income attributable to Piedmont” or “Income from continuing operations” for the diluted earnings per share computations.

Net income per share-basic is calculated as net income available to common stockholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Net income per share-diluted is calculated as net income available to common stockholders divided by the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, including nonvested restricted stock. Diluted weighted average number of common shares is calculated to reflect the potential dilution under the treasury stock method that would occur as if the remaining unvested restricted stock awards hadhas vested and resulted in additional common shares outstanding.

The following table reconciles the denominator for the basic and diluted earnings per share computations shown on the consolidated statements of operations:income for the three months endedMarch 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively:

18



Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2011 2010 2011 20102012 2011
Weighted-average common shares – basic172,827 172,658 172,756 170,110172,630 172,658
Plus incremental weighted-average shares from time-vested conversions:  
Restricted stock awards218 227 240 147244 297
Weighted-average common shares – diluted173,045 172,885 172,996 170,257172,874 172,955

14.12.Subsequent Events

AcquisitionNote Payable Secured by 4250 N. Fairfax Building Repaid

On October 5, 2011May 1, 2012, Piedmont entered into a contract to purchase 400 TownParkrepaid in Lake Mary, Florida, for approximatelyfull the balance outstanding on the $23.9 million. The five-story building, which was built in 2008, contains approximately 176,00045.0 Million square feet and is approximately 19% leased. Piedmont expects to closeFixed-Rate Loan secured by the acquisition during the fourth quarter.4250 N. Fairfax building in advance of its scheduled maturity.

FourthSecond Quarter Dividend Declaration

On NovemberMay 2, 20112012, the board of directors of Piedmont declared dividends for the fourthsecond quarter of 20112012 in the amount of $0.31500.20 per common share outstanding to stockholders of record as of the close of business on DecemberJune 1, 20112012. Such dividends are to be paid on DecemberJune 22, 20112012.

Stock Repurchase Program

On November 2, 2011, the Board of Directors of Piedmont authorized the repurchase of up to $300 million of Piedmont's common stock over the next two years. Piedmont may repurchase the shares from time to time, in accordance with applicable securities laws, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. Repurchases will depend upon market conditions and other factors, and repurchases may be commenced or suspended from time to time in Piedmont's discretion, without prior notice.



2019


ITEM 2.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc. (“Piedmont”). See also “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” preceding Part I, as well as the notes to our consolidated financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20102011.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
We intend to use cash flows generated from the operation of our wholly-owned properties and consolidated joint ventures, distributions from our unconsolidated joint ventures, proceeds from aselective property disposition currently under contract,dispositions, and proceeds from our existing $500$500 Million Unsecured Facility as our primary sources of immediate liquidity. Our existing $500 Million Unsecured Facility matures in August of 2012 and long-term liquidity.we anticipate that we will seek a comparable replacement facility prior to its maturity. In addition, potential additional selective dispositionsdepending on the timing and volume of existing propertiesour property acquisition and disposition activities, we may seek other financing opportunities (such as issuance of additional equity or debt securities or additional borrowings from third-party lenders) afforded to us based on our relatively low leverage and quality asset base may also provideas additional sources of capital; however, the availability and attractiveness of terms for these sources of capital is highly dependent on market conditions. As of the time of this filing, we had $342.056.0 million outstanding under our $500$500 Million Unsecured Facility, primarily as a result of paying off the $250 Million Term Loan during June 2011 and closing on several acquisitions.Facility. As a result, we had approximately $132.6420.6 million under this facility available as of the date of this filing for future borrowing (approximately $25.423.4 million of capacity is reserved as security for outstanding letters of credit required by various third parties).
We estimate that our most immediate usesuse of capital will be to fund capital expenditures for our existing portfolio of properties. These expenditures include two types of specifically identified building improvement projects: (i) general repair and maintenance projects that we as the owner may choose to perform at any of our various properties and (ii) tenant improvement allowances and leasing commissions negotiated as part of executed leases with our tenants. TheBoth the timing and magnitude of general repair and maintenance projects are subject to our discretion. We anticipate funding approximately $145.3137.3 million (approximately $34.6 million relates to tenants at the 35 W. Wacker Building which is held for sale) in unrecorded contractual obligations for tenant improvements related to our existing lease portfolio over the respective lease term, the majority of which we estimate may be required to be funded over the next fiveseveral years. For many of our leases, the timing of the actual funding of these tenant improvements is largely dependent upon tenant requests for reimbursement. In some cases, these obligations may expire with the respective lease, without further recourse to us. Finally, projected amounts forwe also anticipate funding certain tenant improvements and leasing commissions related to anticipated re-leasing efforts are expected to remain high over the next three years asfor several of our large tenants as they approach their lease expiration dates in 2012 and 2013. Thethe next few years. Both the timing and magnitude of these amounts are subject to change as competitive market conditions at the time of lease negotiations dictate.
We also anticipate that, subjectSubject to the identification and availability of attractive propertiesinvestment opportunities and our ability to consummate additional acquisitions on satisfactory terms, acquiring new assets compatible with our investment strategy could also be a significant use of capital. We alsoAdditionally, we expect to use funds to make scheduled debt service payments and/or debt repayments when such obligations become due. During the third quarter ended March 31, 2012, we exercised our extension option to extendfully repaid the maturity date of the $500 Million Unsecured Facility by one year to August 30, 2012 and exercised our extension options to extend the maturity dates of the$140.0 million 500 W. Monroe Mortgage Loan, and subsequent to quarter end we repaid the 500 W. Monroe Mezzanine 1-A Loan Participation to August 9,$45 million mortgage note secured by the 4250 North Fairfax building in advance of its original maturity of June 2012. As such,Other than amounts outstanding on the $500 Million Unsecured Facility ($56.0 million as of the time of this filing), we have no other pending debt maturities until June 2012; however, we anticipate seeking new alternative financing from either a third-party lender or the public debt markets in the coming year depending on the timing and volume of our property acquisition and disposition activities.2014.
Our cash flows from operations depend significantly on market rents and the ability of our tenants to make rental payments. While we believe the diversity and high credit quality of our tenants help mitigate the risk of a significant interruption of our cash flows from operations, the challenging economic conditions that we have seen over the last three years, the downward pressure on rental rates in many of our markets, the potential for an increase in interest rates, or the possibility for a further downturn in one or more of our larger markets, could adversely impact our operating cash flows. Our primary focus is to achieve an attractive long-term, risk-adjusted return for our stockholders. Competition to attract and retain high-credit-quality tenants remains intense due to general economic conditions. At the same time, as mentioned above, several large leases at our properties have been renewedexpired in the past year or are scheduled to expire over the next three years,two years. In some cases we have had to accept lower market driven rental rates and significant capital may be requiredgrant larger tenant improvement packages to retain theserenew leases or secure new tenants than a stronger economic climate might have produced. We expect the commencement of certain recently executed leases with lower rental rates and maintain our current occupancy levels, including payment of leasing commissions, tenant concessions, and anticipated leasing expenditures. As such,the downtime we will continueexperience while re-tenanting certain properties to closely monitorput pressure on 2012 cash flow. As a result, our tenant renewals, rental rates, competitive market conditions, andboard of directors declared a quarterly dividend for the first quarter of 2012 of $0.20 per share which approximates our cash flows. estimated annual taxable income of $0.80 per share.

The amount and form of payment (cash or stock issuance) of future dividends to be paid to our stockholders will continue to be largely dependent upon (i) the amount of cash generated from our operating activities or the selective sale of certain properties,activities; (ii) our expectations of future cash flows,flows; (iii) our determination of near-term cash needs for debt repayments and selective acquisitions of new properties,properties; (iv) the timing of significant expenditures for tenant improvements and general property capital improvements,improvements; (v) long-term payout ratios for comparable companies,companies; (vi) our ability to continue to access additional sources of

21


capital, including potential sales of our propertiesproperties; and (vii) the amount required to be distributed to maintain our status as a REIT. Given the fluctuating nature of cash flows and expenditures, we may periodically borrow funds on a short-term basis to cover timing differences in cash collections and cash receipts. Although we covered the dividend out

20


receipts.

Results of Operations

Overview

Our income from continuing operations for the three months ended September 30, 2011 March 31, 2012decreased as compared to the prior period due in partperiod. The reduction is attributable to $4.2 millionthe non-recurrence of other rental income related to lease terminationsterminations/modifications, the gain on consolidation of a variable interest entity, and interest and other income related to the mezzanine note receivable held on the 500 W. Monroe building prior to its acquisition in the prior period which did not recurperiod. These decreases were partially offset in the current period. In addition,period by the results of operations forfrom the current period reflect eight additionalacquisition of properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010.January 1, 2011.

Comparison of the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 versus the three months ended September 30, 2010March 31, 2011

The following table sets forth selected data from our consolidated statements of income for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 and 20102011, respectively, as well as each balance as a percentage of total revenues for the same periods presented (dollars in millions):

September 30,
2011
 % September 30,
2010
 % 
$
Increase
(Decrease)
March 31,
2012
 % March 31,
2011
 % 
$
Increase
(Decrease)
Revenue:                  
Rental income$105.9
   $102.1
   $3.8
$105.8
   $100.3
   $5.5
Tenant reimbursements28.5
   27.0
   1.5
26.7
   26.9
   (0.2)
Property management fee revenue0.1
   0.8
   (0.7)0.6
   0.8
   (0.2)
Other rental income
   4.2
   (4.2)0.1
   3.4
   (3.3)
Total revenues134.5
 100 % 134.1
 100 % 0.4
133.2
 100 % 131.4
 100 % 1.8
Expense:                  
Property operating costs51.1
 38 % 44.4
 33 % 6.7
52.8
 40 % 48.8
 37 % 4.0
Depreciation26.4
 20 % 24.3
 18 % 2.1
27.5
 20 % 25.0
 19 % 2.5
Amortization14.9
 11 % 9.3
 7 % 5.6
12.8
 10 % 10.4
 8 % 2.4
General and administrative expense4.7
 3 % 6.6
 5 % (1.9)5.2
 4 % 6.6
 5 % (1.4)
Real estate operating income37.4
 28 % 49.5
 37 % (12.1)34.9
 26 % 40.6
 31 % (5.7)
Other income (expense):                  
Interest expense(16.2) (12)% (15.8) (12)% (0.4)(16.5) (12)% (15.6) (12)% (0.9)
Interest and other (expense)/income(0.1)  % 1.0
 1 % (1.1)
Interest and other income0.1
  % 3.5
 3 % (3.4)
Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures0.5
  % 0.6
  % (0.1)0.1
  % 0.2
  % (0.1)
Gain on consolidation of variable interest entity
  % 1.9
 1 % (1.9)
Income from continuing operations$21.6
 16 % $35.3
 26 % $(13.7)$18.6
 14 % $30.6
 23 % $(12.0)
Income from discontinued operations$18.6
   $3.4
   $15.2

Continuing Operations

Revenue

Rental income increased from approximately $102.1100.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2010March 31, 2011 to approximately $105.9105.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012. Approximately $7.1$8.3 million of the variance is due to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010.January 1, 2011, as well as new leases commencing at our Piedmont Pointe I and II buildings in Bethesda, Maryland in late 2011. However, this increase was largelythese increases were partially offset by a reduction in leased space due to lease terminations and expirations at various properties (primarily at our Windy Point II Buildingbuilding in Schaumburg, Illinois), as well as lower lease rates for leases commencing subsequent to September 30, 2010March 31, 2011 at certain of our buildings.

Tenant reimbursements increased from approximately $27.0 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2010 to approximately

22


$28.5 million for the three months endedSeptember 30, 2011 primarily due to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010 which account for approximately $3.0 million of the increase. This variance was partially offset by a decrease in tenant reimbursementsbuildings (primarily at our 800 North Brand Boulevard Building due to the fact that a lease renewal at the location has a gross rental structure with a base-year for operating expense which will be set through most of 2011, which precludes the reimbursement of operating expenses. The variance was also partially offset due to lower tenant reimbursements at our Windy Point II Building1200 Crown Colony Drive building in Schaumburg, Illinois which was the result of a lease expiration.Quincy, Massachusetts).

Other rental income is comprised primarily of income recognized for lease terminations and restructurings. Unlike the majority of our rental income, which is recognized ratably over long-term contracts, lease termination fee income in other rental income is recognized once we have completed our obligation to provide space to the tenant. Lease termination fee income for the three months ended September 30, 2010March 31, 2011 of approximately $4.23.4 million relaterelates primarily to lease terminations at the Chandler Forum Building1201 Eye Street building in Chandler, Arizona,Washington D.C., the Sarasota Commerce Center II Building1075 West Entrance Drive building in Sarasota, FloridaAuburn Hills, Michigan and the 110 Hidden Lake Circle Buildingbuilding in

21


Duncan, South Carolina. We do not expect such income to be comparable in future periods, as it will be dependent upon the exercise of lease terminations by tenants and/or the execution of restructuring agreements that may not be in our control or are deemed by management to be in the best interest of the portfolio over the long term.

Expense

Property operating costs increased approximately $6.74.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 compared to the same period in the prior year. The varianceyear, and the increase is primarily attributable to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010, contributing approximately $5.0 million of new expense. The remaining variance is also attributable to fluctuations in property tax expense as a result of successful appeals of the assessed value at certain of our buildings in the prior period and the current period, where the magnitude of successful appeals was greater in the prior year.January 1, 2011.

Depreciation expense increased approximately $2.12.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 compared to the same period in the prior year. The variance is largely attributable to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010,January 1, 2011, accounting for approximately $1.7 million of the increase. The remainder of the increase is due to depreciation on additional tenant improvements and building expenditures capitalized subsequent to September 30, 2010March 31, 2011.

Amortization expense increased approximately $5.62.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 compared to the same period in the prior year. The variance is primarily attributable to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010,January 1, 2011, contributing approximately $6.3$4.4 million of the increase. This increase, however, was partially offset by reduced amortization expense as a result of lease intangible assets becoming fully amortized at certain of our other properties subsequent to September 30, 2010March 31, 2011. as well as accelerated amortization of certain other intangible assets in the prior period related to the termination of leases.

General and administrative expenses decreased approximately $1.91.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 compared to the same period in the prior year. The decrease is primarily attributable to higher recoveries from our insurance carriers related to our ongoing litigation defense, as well as lower transfer agent expenses and related investor support expenses in the current period as compared to the prior year, costs oftotaling approximately $1.5$0.7 million. Additionally, we recognized a reduction in state and local tax expense as compared to the prior year.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest expense increased approximately $0.40.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 compared to the same period in the prior year. In the prior year, asthe interest rate on the $250 Million Unsecured Term Loan was effectively fixed at 2.36% until it was repaid at maturity in June 2011. In November 2011, we entered into a resultnew $300 Million Unsecured Term Loan which had an effectively fixed interest rate of consolidating2.69%. The slightly higher interest rate, coupled with the higher outstanding principal balance, resulted in the recognition of increased interest expense in the current period. Additionally, we accelerated the amortization of deferred finance costs related to the early payoff of the $140.0 Million 500 W. Monroe Loans in March of 2011. This increase was partially offset by the maturity of the $250 Million TermMortgage Loan in June 2011 with borrowings on our $500 Million Unsecured Loan Facility at a lower average interest rate.January 2012 of approximately $0.2 million.

Interest and other (expense)/income decreased approximately $1.13.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 compared to the same period in the prior yearyear. The decrease reflects the recognition in the prior period of approximately $2.6 million of previously deferred property operating income, as well as income on previously outstanding mezzanine notes receivables. The mezzanine loan receivables were terminated and a resultgain on consolidation of ourVIE was recognized upon the foreclosure onand subsequent consolidation of the 500 W. Monroe Building, which secured our previous investmentsbuilding in notes receivable on that property. Additionally, we recognized interest income in the prior period for default interest earned on oneChicago, Illinois as of the notes receivable.March 31, 2011.

Income from continuing operations per share on a fully diluted basis decreased from $0.210.18 for the three months ended September 30, 2010March 31, 2011 to $0.130.11 for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, primarily due to the increasenon-recurrence of other rental income related to lease terminations/modifications, the gain on consolidation of a variable interest entity, and interest and other income related to the 500 W. Monroe building acquisition in property operating costs, depreciation and amortization expense associated withthe prior period. These decreases were offset in the current period by the results of operations from the acquisition of properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010.January 1, 2011.

Discontinued Operations

In accordance with GAAP, we have classified the operations of the 111 Sylvan Avenue Building in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, the Eastpointe Corporate Center in Issaquah, Washington, the 5000 Corporate Court Buildingbuilding in Holtsville, New York, and the 35

23


W. West Wacker BuildingDrive building in Chicago, Illinois and the Rhein, Deschutes, Willamette, and Rogue buildings (the "Portland Portfolio") are classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Income from discontinued operations increased approximately $24.2$15.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 compared to the same period in the prior year. Weyear primarily due to the gain realized a combined gain on the sale of our Eastpointe Corporate Center and our 5000 Corporate Court BuildingPortland Portfolio (including excess undeveloped land) of $26.8approximately $17.8 million during the current period. There was no activity in the current period at the 111 Sylvan Avenue Building as the property was sold in December 2010. We do not expect that income from discontinued operations will be comparable to future periods, as such income is subject to the timing and existence of future property dispositions.

Comparison of the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 versus the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2010

The following table sets forth selected data from our consolidated statements of income for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively, as well as each balance as a percentage of total revenues for the same periods presented (dollars in millions):

 September 30,
2011
 % September 30,
2010
 % 
$
Increase
(Decrease)
Revenue:         
Rental income$311.8
   $306.2
   $5.6
Tenant reimbursements86.3
   84.1
   2.2
Property management fee revenue1.3
   2.3
   (1.0)
Other rental income4.7
   5.2
   (0.5)
Total revenues404.1
 100 % 397.8
 100 % 6.3
Expense:         
Property operating costs153.3
 38 % 143.4
 36 % 9.9
Depreciation77.7
 19 % 72.3
 18 % 5.4
Amortization39.4
 10 % 28.2
 7 % 11.2
General and administrative expense18.6
 5 % 20.8
 6 % (2.2)
Real estate operating income115.1
 28 % 133.1
 33 % (18.0)
Other income (expense):         
Interest expense(49.6) (12)% (50.7) (13)% 1.1
Interest and other income3.2
 1 % 3.0
 1 % 0.2
Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures1.0
  % 2.0
 1 % (1.0)
Gain on consolidation of VIE1.5
 1 % 
  % 1.5
Income from continuing operations$71.2
 18 % $87.4
 22 % $(16.2)

Continuing Operations

Revenue

Rental income increased from approximately $306.2 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2010 to approximately $311.8 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011. This variance is due primarily to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010 which account for approximately $14.8 million of the increase in rental revenue. However, this increase was largely offset by lower lease rates for leases commencing subsequent to September 30, 2010, primarily at our 1200 Crown Colony Drive Building, and our 150 West Jefferson Building in Detroit, Michigan, as well as a reduction in leased space due to lease terminations, contractions, and/or restructurings at various properties, including our 1201 Eye Street Building, our 800 North Brand Boulevard Building, and our Chandler Forum Building.

Tenant reimbursements increased from approximately $84.1 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2010 to approximately $86.3 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 primarily due to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010, accounting for approximately $6.7 million of the increase in tenant reimbursements. This variance was offset by a decrease in property tax reimbursements due to successful appeals of the assessed values at several of our buildings of approximately $4.3 million.

Other rental income is comprised primarily of income recognized for lease terminations and restructurings. Unlike the majority of our rental income, which is recognized ratably over long-term contracts, other rental income is recognized once we have completed our obligation to provide space to the tenant. Lease termination fee income for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 of approximately $4.7 million relates primarily to leases at the 1201 and 1225 Eye Street Buildings, the 1075 West Entrance Drive

2422


Building in Auburn Hills, Michigan, the US Bancorp Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the Crescent Ridge II Building in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the 110 Hidden Lake Circle Building. Lease termination fee income for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2010 of approximately $5.2 million primarily relate to leases terminated at the Chandler Forum Building, the 110 Hidden Lake Circle Building and the Sarasota Commerce Center II Building. We do not expect such income to be comparable in future periods, as it will be dependent upon the exercise of lease terminations by tenants and/or the execution of restructuring agreements that may not be in our control or are deemed by management to be in the best interest of the portfolio over the long term.

Expense

Property operating costs increased approximately $9.9 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year. This variance is due primarily to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010, which accounts for an approximate $10.5 million increase in property costs. Property operating costs also increased due to higher recoverable repair and maintenance costs of approximately $1.1 million. These variances were partially offset as a result of successful appeals of the assessed values at several of our buildings resulting in lower estimated property tax expense of approximately $1.2 million.

Depreciation expense increased approximately $5.4 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year. The variance is primarily attributable to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010, comprising approximately $3.6 million of the increase. Additionally, new tenant improvements and building expenditures capitalized at our existing properties subsequent to September 30, 2010 resulted in additional depreciation expense of approximately $1.6 million.

Amortization expense increased approximately $11.2 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year. The variance is primarily attributable to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010, accounting for approximately $12.6 million of the increase. The remaining variance is primarily the net difference between lower amortization expense recognized for lease intangible assets that became fully amortized subsequent to September 30, 2010 and charges to accelerate amortization expense on certain lease intangible assets related to various lease terminations at certain of our buildings.

General and administrative expenses decreased approximately $2.2 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year. The decrease is primarily attributable to lower transfer agent expenses and related investor support expenses in the current period as compared to the prior year costs incurred subsequent to the listing of our shares on the New York Stock Exchange in February 2010 of approximately $5.1 million. The decrease was partially offset by higher legal fees of $2.1 million mainly due to higher insurance reimbursements related to our defense of ongoing litigation in the prior period. We also incurred higher employee benefit costs of approximately $1.4 million, primarily due to the new stock performance component of the 2010 Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan which effects long-term incentive compensation grants for officers.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest expense decreased approximately $1.1 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year mainly because we extended the $250 Million Term Loan in June 2010, and entered into new interest rate swap agreements with four counterparties to effectively fix the interest rate on the loan at 2.36%, as compared to the previous rate of 4.97%. The weighted average interest rate fell even further in the third quarter 2011 after the $250 Million Term Loan matured in June and was replaced with borrowings on the $500 Million Unsecured Loan Facility. However, these decreases were partially offset by interest expense related to recording the 500 W. Monroe Loans in our consolidated financial statements in March 2011 as part of our becoming the primary beneficiary of the VIE containing the 500 W. Monroe Building in Chicago, Illinois, a $140.0 million first mortgage loan secured by the building, and a participation in a mezzanine loan totaling $45.0 million.

Interest and other income increased approximately $0.2 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year. The variance is due to the recognition of previously deferred property operating income upon consolidation of the 500 W. Monroe Building in the current period of approximately $2.6 million. The increase was largely offset by the fact that we no longer record interest income or mezzanine discount amortization in the current period on our former investments in mezzanine debt, both of which were secured by pledges of equity interests in the ownership of the property, due to our successful bid at a UCC foreclosure sale of the 500 W. Monroe Building.

Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures decreased approximately $1.0 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year. The decrease was a result of tenants vacating space at the 47300 Kato Road Building in Fremont, California effective in June 2010 and the Two Park Center Building located in Hoffman Estates, Illinois effective in January 2011. These decreases were offset slightly by our proportionate share of the gain recognized on the sale of both the 360 Interlocken Building in Broomfield, Colorado, and the 47300 Kato Road Building. We expect equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures to fluctuate based on the timing and extent to which dispositions occur as our unconsolidated joint ventures approach their stated dissolution periods.

25



The approximate $1.5 million gain on the consolidation of our VIE recognized during the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 is the net result of recording the estimated fair value of the net assets associated with taking ownership of the 500 W. Monroe Building through foreclosure.

Income from continuing operations per share on a fully diluted basis decreased from $0.51 for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2010 to $0.41 for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 primarily due to the increase in property operating costs, depreciation and amortization expense associated with properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010. Although rental income increased due to properties acquired subsequent to September 30, 2010, such rental income was negatively impacted by lower rental rates and reductions in leased space at some of our existing properties during the same period. Other increases that partially offset the decrease in continuing operations per share include an increase in tenant reimbursements and the recognition of a non-recurring, non-cash gain of approximately $1.5 million upon consolidation of the VIE containing the 500 W. Monroe Building.

Discontinued Operations

In accordance with GAAP, we have classified the operations of the 111 Sylvan Avenue Building , the Eastpointe Corporate Center, the 5000 Corporate Court Building, and the 35 W. Wacker Building as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Income from discontinued operations increased approximately $24.2 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011 compared to the same period in the prior year. We realized a gain on the sale of our Eastpointe Corporate Center and our 5000 Corporate Court Building of $26.8 million during the current period. There was no activity in the current period at the 111 Sylvan Avenue Building as the property was sold in December 2010. We do not expect that income from discontinued operations will be comparable to future periods, as such income is subject to the timing and existence of future property dispositions.

Funds From Operations (“FFO”), Core FFO, and Adjusted Funds from Operations (“AFFO”)

Net income calculated in accordance with GAAP is the starting point for calculating FFO, Core FFO, and AFFO. FFO, Core FFO, and AFFO which are non-GAAP financial measures and should not be viewed as an alternative measurement of our operating performance to net income. Management believes that accounting for real estate assets in accordance with GAAP implicitly assumes that the value of real estate assets diminishes predictably over time. Since real estate values have historically risen or fallen with market conditions, many industry investors and analysts have considered the presentation of operating results for real estate companies that use historical cost accounting to be insufficient by themselves. As a result, we believe that the use of FFO, Core FFO, and AFFO, together with the required GAAP presentation, provides a more complete understanding of our performance relative to our competitors and a more informed and appropriate basis on which to make decisions involving operating, financing, and investing activities.

We calculate FFO in accordance with the current NAREIT definition as follows: Net income (computed in accordance with GAAP), excluding gains or losses from sales of property and impairment charges (including our proportionate share of any impairment charges and/or gains or losses from sales of property related to investments in unconsolidated joint ventures), plus depreciation and amortization on real estate assets (including our proportionate share of depreciation and amortization related to investments in unconsolidated joint ventures). Other REITs may not define FFO in accordance with the NAREIT definition, or may interpret the current NAREIT definition differently than we do; therefore, our computation of FFO may not be comparable to such other REITs.

We calculate Core FFO as FFO (calculated as set forth above) less impairment charges, acquisition costs and other significant, nonrecurringnon-recurring items, (including our proportionate share of any impairment charges, acquisition costs, or significant nonrecurring items recognized during the period related to investments in unconsolidated joint ventures). During the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2011, we reduced FFO for the nonrecurring $1.5 millionsuch as a gain on consolidationearly extinguishment of the VIE containing the 500 W. Monroe Building and 500 W. Monroe Loans, the $26.8 million gain on sale of our wholly-owned properties, the $0.1 million gain on sale of properties held by our unconsolidated partnerships and added back acquisition costs of approximately $1.0 million to arrive at Core FFO.debt.

We calculate AFFO as Core FFO (calculated as set forth above) exclusive of the net effects of: (i) amortization associated with deferred financing costs; (ii) depreciation on non-income-producingof non real estate assets; (iii) straight-line lease revenue/expense; (iv) amortization of above and below-market lease intangibles; (v) stock-based and other non-cash compensation expense; (vi) amortization of mezzanine discount income; (vii) acquisition costs, and (viii) non-incremental capital expenditures (as defined below). Our proportionate share of such adjustments related to investments in unconsolidated joint ventures are also included when calculating AFFO.

Reconciliations of net income to FFO, Core FFO, and AFFO are presented below (in thousands except per share amounts):


2623


Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2011 
Per
Share (1)
 2010 
Per
Share(1)
 2011 
Per
Share(1)
 2010 
Per
Share(1)
2012 
Per
Share (1)
 2011 
Per
Share(1)
Net income attributable to Piedmont$51,026
 $0.29
 $40,584
 $0.23
 $106,020
 $0.61
 $91,679
 $0.54
$37,227
 $0.22
 $33,967
 $0.20
Depreciation of real assets (2)
28,102
 0.16
 26,163
 0.15
 83,135
 0.48
 78,285
 0.46
27,809
 0.16
 27,154
 0.15
Amortization of lease-related
costs (2)
16,616
 0.10
 11,119
 0.07
 44,601
 0.26
 33,712
 0.20
12,840
 0.07
 12,106
 0.07
Gain on consolidation of VIE
 
 
 
 (1,532) (0.01) 
 

 
 (1,920) (0.01)
Gain on sale- wholly-owned properties(26,756) (0.15) 
 
 (26,756) (0.15) 
 
(17,830) (0.10) 
 
Gain on sale- unconsolidated partnership(70) 
 
 
 (116) 
 
 

 
 
 
Funds From Operations$68,918
 $0.40
 $77,866
 $0.45
 $205,352
 $1.19
 $203,676
 $1.20
$60,046
 $0.35
 $71,307
 $0.41
Adjustment:                      
Acquisition costs285
 
 310
 
 975
 
 358
 
(3) 
 (26) 
Impairment loss (2)

 
 53
 
 
 
 9,640
 0.06
Core Funds From Operations$69,203
 $0.40
 $78,229
 $0.45
 $206,327
 $1.19
 $213,674
 $1.26
$60,043
 $0.35
 $71,281
 $0.41
Adjustments:       
Deferred financing cost amortization879
 
 607
 
 2,546
 0.02
 2,000
 0.01
803
 
 607
 0.01
Amortization of fair market adjustments on notes payable471
 
 
 
 1,413
 0.01
 
 
Depreciation of non real estate assets84
 
 176
 
 422
 
 533
 
93
 
 170
 
Straight-line effects of lease expense (2)
(4,129) (0.02) (2,921) (0.02) (4,488) (0.03) (2,632) (0.01)(1,565) (0.01) 2,237
 0.01
Stock-based and other non-cash compensation1,111
 0.01
 1,095
 0.01
 2,975
 0.02
 2,458
 0.01
334
 
 968
 0.01
Net effect of amortization of below-market in-place lease intangibles (2)
(1,817) (0.01) (1,510) (0.01) (4,850) (0.03) (4,461) (0.03)(1,532) (0.01) (1,363) (0.01)
Income from amortization of discount on purchase of mezzanine loans
 
 (569) 
 (484) 
 (1,932) (0.01)
 
 (484) 
Acquisition costs(285) 
 (310) 
 (975) 
 (358) 
3
 
 26
 
Non-incremental capital expenditures (3)
(15,538) (0.09) (8,023) (0.04) (46,018) (0.27) (22,722) (0.13)(8,066) (0.04) (17,131) (0.10)
Adjusted Funds From Operations$49,979
 $0.29
 $66,774
 $0.39
 $156,868
 $0.91
 $186,560
 $1.10
$50,113
 $0.29
 $56,311
 $0.33
Weighted-average shares outstanding – diluted173,045
   172,885
   172,996
   170,257
  172,874
   172,955
  

(1) 
Based on weighted average shares outstanding – diluted.
(2) 
Includes adjustments for wholly-owned properties, as well as such adjustments for our proportionate ownership in unconsolidated joint ventures.
(3) 
Effective July 1, 2011, Piedmont defines non-incremental capital expenditures as capital expenditures of a recurring nature related to tenant improvements and leasing commissions that do not incrementally enhance the underlying assets' income generating capacity. Tenant improvements, leasing commissions, building capital and deferred lease incentives incurred to lease space that was vacant at acquisition, leasing costs for spaces vacant for greater than one year, leasing costs for spaces at newly acquired properties for which in-place leases expire shortly after acquisition, improvements associated with the expansion of a building, and renovations that either change the underlying classification from a Class B to a Class A property or enhance the marketability of a building are excluded from this measure. All data for prior periods presented have been recalculatedcalculated in accordance with the newthis definition for comparability.

Election as a REIT

We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Code and have operated as such beginning with our taxable year ended December 31, 1998. To qualify as a REIT, we must meet certain organizational and operational requirements, including a requirement to distribute at least 90% of our adjusted REIT taxable income, computed without regard to the dividends-paid deduction and by excluding net capital gains attributable to our stockholders, as defined by the Code. As a REIT, we generally will not be subject to federal income tax on income that we distribute to our stockholders. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we may be subject to federal income taxes on our taxable income for that year and for the four years following the year during which qualification is lost and/or

27


penalties, unless the IRS grants us relief under certain statutory provisions. Such an event could materially adversely affect our net income and net cash available for distribution to our stockholders. However, we believe that we are organized and operate in such a manner as to qualify for treatment as a REIT and intend to continue to operate in the foreseeable future in such a manner that we will remain qualified as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. We have elected to treat Piedmont Office Holdings, Inc. (“POH”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Piedmont, as a taxable REIT subsidiary. We perform non-customary services for tenants of buildings that we own, including solar power generation, real estate and non-real estate related-services; however, any earnings related to such

24


services performed by our taxable REIT subsidiary are subject to federal and state income taxes. In addition, for us to continue to qualify as a REIT, our investments in taxable REIT subsidiaries cannot exceed 25% of the value of our total assets. POH recorded operations for the three and nine months ended ended September 30, 2011, and accordingly recorded a provision of approximately $8,000 and $17,000, respectively, for federal and state income taxes in our accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Inflation

We are exposed to inflation risk, as income from long-term leases is the primary source of our cash flows from operations. There are provisions in the majority of our tenant leases that are intended to protect us from, and mitigate the risk of, the impact of inflation. These provisions include rent steps, reimbursement billings for operating expense pass-through charges, real estate tax, and insurance reimbursements on a per square-foot basis, or in some cases, annual reimbursement of operating expenses above certain per square-foot allowance. However, due to the long-term nature of the leases, the leases may not readjust their reimbursement rates frequently enough to fully cover inflation.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We are not dependent on off-balance sheet financing arrangements for liquidity. Our off-balance sheet arrangements consist of our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures and operating lease obligations related to ground leases at certain of our properties. The unconsolidated joint ventures in which we invest are prohibited by their governing documents from incurring debt. For further information regarding our commitments under operating lease obligations, see the Contractual Obligations table below.

Application of Critical Accounting Policies

Our accounting policies have been established to conform with GAAP. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to use judgment in the application of accounting policies, including making estimates and assumptions. These judgments affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. If our judgment or interpretation of the facts and circumstances relating to various transactions had been different, it is possible that different accounting policies would have been applied, thus, resulting in a different presentation of the financial statements. Additionally, other companies may utilize different estimates that may impact comparability of our results of operations to those of companies in similar businesses. The critical accounting policies outlined below have been discussed with members of the Audit Committee of the board of directors.

Investment in Real Estate Assets

We are required to make subjective assessments as to the useful lives of our depreciable assets. We consider the period of future benefit of the asset to determine the appropriate useful lives. These assessments have a direct impact on net income attributable to Piedmont. The estimated useful lives of our assets by class are as follows:
 
Buildings40 years
Building improvements5-25 years
Land improvements20-25 years
Tenant improvementsShorter of economic life or lease term
Intangible lease assetsLease term

Allocation of Purchase Price of Acquired Assets

Upon the acquisition of real properties, it is our policy to allocate the purchase price of properties to acquired tangible assets, consisting of land and building, and identified intangible assets and liabilities, consisting of the value of above-market and below-market leases, other value of in-place leases, and value of tenant relationships, based in each case on their estimated fair values.

The fair values of the tangible assets of an acquired property (which includes land and buildings) are determined by valuing the property as if it were vacant, and the “as-if-vacant” value is then allocated to land and building based on our determination of the fair value of these assets. We determine the as-if-vacant fair value of a property using methods similar to those used by independent appraisers. Factors considered by us in performing these analyses include an estimate of carrying costs during the expected lease-up periods considering current market conditions and costs to execute similar leases. In estimating carrying costs, we include real estate taxes, insurance, and other operating expenses and estimates of lost rental revenue during the expected lease-up periods based on current market demand. We also estimate the cost to execute similar leases including leasing commissions, legal, and other related costs.

2825


other related costs.

The fair values of above-market and below-market in-place lease values are recorded based on the present value (using an interest rate that reflects the risks associated with the leases acquired) of the difference between (i) the contractual amounts to be paid pursuant to the in-place leases and (ii) our estimate of fair market lease rates for the corresponding in-place leases, measured over a period equal to the remaining noncancelable term of the lease. The above-market and below-market lease values are capitalized as intangible lease assets and liabilities and amortized as an adjustment of rental income over the remaining terms of the respective leases.

The fair values of in-place leases include direct costs associated with obtaining a new tenant, opportunity costs associated with lost rentals that are avoided by acquiring an in-place lease, and tenant relationships. Direct costs associated with obtaining a new tenant include commissions, tenant improvements, and other direct costs and are estimated based on management’s consideration of current market costs to execute a similar lease. These direct costs are included in deferred lease costs in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and are amortized to expense over the remaining terms of the respective leases. The value of opportunity costs is calculated using the contractual amounts to be paid pursuant to the in-place leases over a market absorption period for a similar lease. Customer relationships are valued based on expected renewal of a lease or the likelihood of obtaining a particular tenant for other locations. These lease intangibles are included in intangible lease assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and are amortized to expense over the remaining terms of the respective leases.

Estimates of the fair values of the tangible and intangible assets require us to estimate market lease rates, property operating expenses, carrying costs during lease-up periods, discount rates, market absorption periods, and the number of years the property is held for investment. The use of inappropriate estimates would result in an incorrect assessment of our purchase price allocations, which could impact the amount of our reported net income attributable to us.

Valuation of Real Estate Assets and Investments in Joint Ventures Which Hold Real Estate Assets

We continually monitor events and changes in circumstances that could indicate that the carrying amounts of the real estate and related intangible assets, both operating properties and properties under construction, in which we have an ownership interest, either directly or through investments in joint ventures, may not be recoverable. When indicators of potential impairment are present which indicate that the carrying amounts of real estate and related intangible assets may not be recoverable, we assess the recoverability of these assets by determining whether the carrying value will be recovered through the undiscounted future operating cash flows expected from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. In the event that such expected undiscounted future cash flows do not exceed the carrying value, we adjust the real estate and related intangible assets to the fair value and recognize an impairment loss.

Projections of expected future cash flows require that we estimate future market rental income amounts subsequent to the expiration of current lease agreements, property operating expenses, the number of months it takes to re-lease the property, and the number of years the property is held for investment, among other factors. The subjectivity of assumptions used in the future cash flow analysis, including capitalization and discount rates, could result in an incorrect assessment of the property’s fair value and, therefore, could result in the misstatement of the carrying value of our real estate and related intangible assets and our net income attributable to us. We have determined that there has been no impairment in the carrying value of real estate assets owned by us or any unconsolidated joint ventures as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012.

Goodwill

Goodwill is the excess of cost of an acquired entity over the amounts specifically assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed in purchase accounting for business combinations, as well as costs incurred as part of the acquisition. We test the carrying value of our goodwill for impairment on an annual basis, or on an interim basis if an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. Such interim circumstances may include, but are not limited to, significant adverse changes in legal factors or in the general business climate, adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, the loss of key personnel, or persistent declines in an entity’s stock price below carrying value of the entity. TheWe have the option, should we choose to use it, to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we conclude that the estimated fair value is greater than the carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary. However, if we chose to forgo the availability of the qualitative analysis, the test prescribed by authoritative accounting guidance is a two-step test; however, recent changes to such guidance provide for qualitative analysis that may be performed before proceeding to the two-step test. See Recent Accounting Pronouncements in Note 2 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further detail. The first step involves comparing the estimated fair value of the entity to its carrying value, including goodwill. Fair value is determined by adjusting the trading price of the stock for various factors including, but not limited to: (i) liquidity or transferability considerations, (ii) control premiums, and/or (iii) fully distributed premiums, if necessary, multiplied by the common shares outstanding. If such calculated fair value exceeds the carrying value, no further procedures or analysis is permitted or required. However, if the carrying value exceeds the calculated fair value,

26


goodwill is potentially impaired and step two of the analysis would be required. Step two of the test involves calculating the implied fair

29


value of goodwill by deducting the fair value of all tangible and intangible net assets of the entity from the entity’s fair value calculated in step one of the test. If the implied value of the goodwill (the remainder left after deducting the fair values of the entity from its calculated overall fair value in step one of the test) is less than the carrying value of goodwill, an impairment loss would be recognized. We have determined that there have been no events or circumstances that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012.

Investment in Variable Interest Entities

VIEs are defined by GAAP as entities in which equity investors do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties. If an entity is determined to be a VIE, it must be consolidated by the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the enterprise that has the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, absorbs the majority of the entity’s expected losses, or receives a majority of the entity’s expected residual returns. Generally, expected losses and expected residual returns are the anticipated negative and positive variability, respectively, in the fair value of the VIE’s net assets. When we make an investment, we assess whether the investment represents a variable interest in a VIE and, if so, whether we are the primary beneficiary of the VIE. Incorrect assumptions or assessments may result in an inaccurate determination of the primary beneficiary. The result could be the consolidation of an entity acquired or formed in the future that would otherwise not have been consolidated or the non-consolidation of such an entity that would otherwise have been consolidated.

We evaluate each investment to determine whether it represents variable interests in a VIE. Further, we evaluate the sufficiency of the entities’ equity investment at risk to absorb expected losses, and whether as a group, the equity has the characteristics of a controlling financial interest.

Contractual Obligations
Our contractual obligations as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 are as follows (in thousands):

Payments Due by PeriodPayments Due by Period
Contractual ObligationsTotal  
Less than
1 year
 1-3 years 3-5 years 
More than
5 years
Total 
Less than
1 year
 1-3 years 3-5 years 
More than
5 years
Long-term debt(1)
$1,664,525
 $557,000
 $695,000
 $230,000
 $182,525
$1,352,525
 $65,000
 $575,000
 $572,525
 $140,000
Operating lease obligations(2)
78,777
   721
 2,249
 1,500
 74,307
78,431
 750
 2,249
 1,500
 73,932
Total$1,743,302
   $557,721
 $697,249
 $231,500
 $256,832
$1,430,956
 $65,750
 $577,249
 $574,025
 $213,932

(1) 
Amounts include principal payments only. We made interest payments, including payments under our interest rate swaps, of approximately $50.115.8 million during the ninethree months ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, and expect to pay interest in future periods on outstanding debt obligations based on the rates and terms disclosed herein and in Note 54 of our accompanying consolidated financial statements.
(2) 
Three properties (the River Corporate Center Buildingbuilding in Tempe, Arizona; the 8700 South Price Road Buildingbuilding in Tempe, Arizona; and the 2001 NW 64th Street Buildingbuilding in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida) are subject to ground leases with expiration dates ranging between 2048 and 2101. The aggregate remaining payments required under the terms of these operating leases as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 are presented above.


Commitments and Contingencies
We are subject to certain commitments and contingencies with regard to certain transactions. Refer to Note 98 to our consolidated financial statements for further explanation. Examples of such commitments and contingencies include:
Commitments Under Existing Lease Agreements;
Contingencies Related to Tenant Audits;
Letters of Credit; and
Assertion of Legal Action.

ITEM 3.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Our future income, cash flows, and fair values of our financial instruments depend in part upon prevailing market interest rates.

30


Market risk is the exposure to loss resulting from changes in interest rates, foreign currency, exchange rates, commodity prices, and equity prices. Our exposure to market risk includes interest rate fluctuations in connection with any borrowings under our

27


$500 Million Unsecured Facility and under the debt assumed in conjunction with the foreclosure of the 500 W. Monroe Building.our $300 Million Unsecured Term Loan. As a result, the primary market risk to which we believe we are exposed is interest rate risk. Many factors, including governmental monetary and tax policies, domestic and international economic and political considerations, and other factors that are beyond our control contribute to interest rate risk. Our interest rate risk management objectives are to limit the impact of interest rate changes on earnings and cash flow primarily through a low-to-moderate level of overall borrowings, as well as managing the variability in rate fluctuations on our outstanding debt. As such, a significant portion of our debt is based on fixed interest rates to hedge against instability in the credit markets, or inand we have effectively fixed the case of the debt assumed as part of consolidating the 500 W. Monroe Building, we put LIBOR interest rate caps in place on the debt to limit our exposure to potential increases in LIBOR during the term of the loans.$300 Million Unsecured Term Loan through interest rate swap agreements, provided that we maintain our corporate credit rating. We do not enter into derivative or interest rate transactions for speculative purposes.

All of our debt was entered into for other than trading purposes, and the estimated fair value of our debt as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, including notes payable held for sale, was approximately $1.71.4 billion. Our interest rate swap agreements in place as of March 31, 2012 carried notional amounts totaling $300 million and fixed interest rates of 2.69%. See Notes 54 and 87 of our accompanying consolidated financial statements for further detail.

As of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, all of our outstanding debt, (including notes payable held for sale), except for amounts outstanding under our $500 Million Unsecured Facility, is subject to fixed, or effectively fixed, interest rates, or variable LIBOR rates which are capped at 2.19%. The $140.0 million and $45.0 million indebtedness assumed upon consolidation of the 500 W. Monroe Building are subject to a stated rate of LIBOR (0.229% for the accrual period in effect as of September 30, 2011) plus 1.008% and 1.45%, respectively. In both instances, the LIBOR rate is capped at 2.19%, limiting our exposure to potential increases to LIBOR.rates. Our total outstanding debt subject to fixed or capped, variableeffectively fixed interest rates has an average effective interest rate of approximately 4.63%4.61% per annum (4.59% exclusive of notes payable held for sale) with expirations ranging from 2012 to 2017. A change in the market interest rate impacts the net financial instrument position of our fixed-rate debt portfolio but has a minimal impact on interest incurred or cash flows.

As of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, we had $327.020.0 million outstanding on our $500 Million Unsecured Facility, which is the only debt facility subject to uncapped, variable interest rates. Our $500 Million Unsecured Facility currently has a stated rate of LIBOR plus 0.475% per annum or the prime rate, at the company’s discretion. Draws outstanding as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 were subject to a blended rate of 0.84%0.73% as of September 30, 2011March 31, 2012. To the extent that we borrow additional funds in the future under the $500 Million Unsecured Facility or potential future variable-rate lines of credit, we would have exposure to increases in interest rates, which would potentially increase our cost of debt.

ITEM 4.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Management’s Conclusions Regarding the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Principal Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) as of the end of the quarterly period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, the Principal Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report in providing a reasonable level of assurance that information we are required to disclose in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in applicable SEC rules and forms, including providing a reasonable level of assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Principal Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012 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
Assertion of Legal Action

In Re Wells Real Estate Investment Trust, Inc. Securities Litigation, Civil Action No. 1:07-cv-00862-CAP(Upon motions to dismiss filed by defendants, parts of all seven counts were dismissed by the court. Counts III through VII were dismissed in their entirety. On August 2, 2010, the court ruled on various pre-trial motions and denied the defendants’ motion for summary judgment. The parties are preparing for trial, but no trial date has been set.)

On March 12, 2007, a stockholder filed a purported class action and derivative complaint in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland against, among others, Piedmont, Piedmont’sPiedmont's previous advisors, and thecertain officers and directors of Piedmont priorPiedmont. Upon motion by the defendants, the case was transferred to the closingUnited States District Court for the Northern District of the Internalization. The complaint attempts to assert class action claimsGeorgia on behalf of those persons who received and were entitled to vote on the proxy statement filed with the SEC on February 26,April 17, 2007.

TheAs subsequently amended and dismissed in part, the complaint alleges among other things, (i) that the consideration to be paid as part of the Internalization is excessive; (ii) violations of Section 14(a), including Rule 14a-9 thereunder, and Section 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), based upon allegations that the proxy statement for Piedmont's 2007 internalization transaction (the "Internalization") contains false and misleading statements or omits to state material facts; (iii) thatfacts. On February 9, 2011, the boardplaintiff dismissed its claim for violation of directors andSection 20(a) of the current and previous advisors breached their fiduciary duties to the class and to Piedmont; and (iv) that the proposed Internalization will unjustly enrich certain directors and officers of Piedmont.Exchange Act.

TheAs subsequently amended and dismissed in part, the complaint seeks, among other things, (i) certification of the class action; (ii) a judgment declaring the proxy statement false and misleading; (iii) unspecified monetary damages; (iv) to nullify any stockholder approvals obtained during the proxy process; (v) to nullify the Internalization; (vi) restitution for disgorgementcancellation and rescission of profits, benefits,any stock issued as consideration in the Internalization, or, in the alternative, rescissory damages; and other compensation for wrongful conduct and fiduciary breaches; (vii) the nomination and election of new independent directors, and the retention of a new financial advisor to assess the advisability of Piedmont’s strategic alternatives; and (viii) the payment of reasonable attorneys’attorneys' fees and experts’experts' fees.

On June 27, 2007, the plaintiff filed an amended complaint, which contains the same counts as the original complaint, described above, with amended factual allegations based primarily on events occurring subsequent to the original complaint and the addition of a Piedmont officer as an individual defendant.

On March 31, 2008, the court granted in part the defendants’ motion to dismiss the amended complaint. The court dismissed five of the seven counts of the amended complaint in their entirety. The court dismissed the remaining two counts with the exception of allegations regarding the failure to disclose in Piedmont’s proxy statement details of certain expressions of interest by a third party in acquiring Piedmont. On April 21, 2008, the plaintiff filed a second amended complaint, which alleges violations of the federal proxy rules based upon allegations that the proxy statement to obtain approval for Internalization omitted details of certain expressions of interest in acquiring Piedmont. The second amended complaint seeks, among other things, unspecified monetary damages, to nullify and rescind Internalization, and to cancel and rescind any stock issued to the defendants as consideration for Internalization. On May 12, 2008, the defendants answered the second amended complaint.

On June 23, 2008, the plaintiff filed a motion for class certification. On September 16, 2009, the court granted the plaintiff’splaintiff's motion for class certification. On September 30, 2009, the defendants filed a petition for permission to appeal immediately the court’s order granting the motion for class certification with the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, which the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals denied on October 30, 2009.

On April 13, 2009, the plaintiff moved for leave to amend the second amended complaint to add additional defendants. The court denied the motion for leave to amend on June 23, 2009.

On December 4, 2009, the parties filed motions for summary judgment. On August 2, 2010, the court entered an order denying the defendants’defendants' motion for summary judgment and granting, in part, the plaintiff’splaintiff's motion for partial summary judgment.

On August 12, 2010,November 17, 2011, the court issued rulings granting several of the plaintiff's pre trial motions to prohibit the defendants from introducing certain evidence, including evidence of the defendants' reliance on advice from their outside legal and financial advisors, and limiting the defendants' ability to relate their subjective views, considerations, and observations during the trial of the case.

On February 23, 2012, the court granted several of defendants' motions, including a motion for reconsideration regarding a motion plaintiff had filed seeking exclusion of certain evidence impacting damages, and motions seeking exclusion of certain evidence proposed to be submitted by plaintiff. The suit has been removed from the court's trial calendar pending resolution of a request for interlocutory appellate review of certain legal rulings made by the court.

On March 20, 2012, the court granted the defendants leave to file a motion for summary judgment. On April 5, 2012, the defendants filed a motion seekingfor summary judgment. On April 24, 2012, the plaintiff filed its response to certify the court’s decision ondefendants' motion for summary judgment.  The time for the parties’ motionsdefendants to file their reply in support of their motion for summary judgment for immediate appeal. On November 1, 2010, the court denied the defendants’ motion to certify its order on the parties’ motions for summary judgment for immediate appeal. No trial date has been set.not yet expired.

We believe that theplaintiff's allegations contained in the complaint are without merit, and as such, have determined that the risk of material loss associated with this lawsuit is remote. Further, we will continue to vigorously defend this action. Due to the uncertainties inherent in the litigation process, our assessment of the ultimate potential financial impactmerits of the caseclaim notwithstanding, the risk of

32


material financial loss does exist, asexist. Plaintiff is seeking damages of approximately $159 million plus prejudgment interest, which defendants dispute. There are a number of defendants in this case and the allocation of damages, if any, to Piedmont versus the other defendants (including any indemnification rights or obligations of Piedmont with respect to the other defendants) is indeterminable at this time. In addition, up to $13 million of any litigation.damages may be recoverable by Piedmont under its insurance policies.

In Re Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc. Securities Litigation, Civil Action No. 1:07-cv-02660-CAP (The defendants have filed a motion to dismiss the third amended complaint. Discovery is stayed pending resolution of the defendants' motion to dismiss.)07-cv-02660-CAP

On October 25, 2007, the same stockholder mentioned above filed a second purported class action in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia against Piedmont and its board of directors. The complaint attempts to assert class action claims on behalf of (i) those persons who were entitled to tender their shares pursuant to the tender offer filed with the SEC by Lex-Win Acquisition LLC, a former stockholder, on May 25, 2007, and (ii) all persons who are entitled to vote on the proxy statement filed with the SEC on October 16, 2007.

TheAs subsequently amended and dismissed in part, the complaint alleges, among other things, violations of the federal securities laws, including Sections 14(a) and 14(e) of the Exchange Act and Rules 14a-9 and 14e-2(b) promulgated thereunder. In addition, the complaint alleges that defendants have also breached their fiduciary duties owed to the proposed classes.

On December 26, 2007, the plaintiff filed a motion seeking that the court designate it as lead plaintiff and its counsel as class lead counsel, which the court granted on May 2, 2008.

On May 19, 2008, the lead plaintiff filed an amended complaint which contained the same counts as the original complaint. On June 30, 2008, defendants filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint.

On March 30, 2009, the court granted in part the defendants’ motion to dismiss the amended complaint. The court dismissed two of the four counts of the amended complaint in their entirety. The court dismissed the remaining two counts with the exception ofthereunder based upon allegations regarding (i) the failure to disclose certain information regarding the likelihood of a listing in our amended response to the Lex-Win tender offer and

29


(ii) purported misstatements or omissions in our proxy statement concerning then-existing market conditions, the alternatives to a listing or extension that were explored by the defendants, the results of conversations with potential buyers as to our valuation, and certain details of our share redemption program. On April 13, 2009, defendants moved for reconsideration of the court’s March 30, 2009 order or, alternatively, for certification of the order for immediate appellate review. The defendants also requested that the proceedings be stayed pending consideration of the motion. On June 19, 2009, the court denied the motion for reconsideration and the motion for certification of the order for immediate appellate review.

On April 20, 2009, the plaintiff, joined by a second plaintiff, filed a second amended complaint, which alleges violations of the federal securities laws, including Sections 14(a) and 14(e) of the Exchange Act and Rules 14a-9 and 14e-2(b) promulgated thereunder. The second amended complaint seeks, among other things, unspecified monetary damages, to nullify and void any authorizations secured by the proxy statement, and to compel a tender offer. On May 11, 2009, the defendants answered the second amended complaint.

On June 10, 2009, the plaintiffs filed a motion for class certification. The court granted the plaintiffs’plaintiffs' motion for class certification on March 10, 2010. Defendants sought and received permission from the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals to appeal the class certification order on an interlocutory basis. On April 11, 2011, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals invalidated the district court’scourt's order certifying a class and remanded the case to the district court for further proceedings.

On July 15, 2011, the plaintiffs filed a motion for leave to file a third amended complaint. The court granted the plaintiffs' motion for leave to file a third amended complaint on September 27, 2011. The plaintiffs' third amended complaint contains the same counts as the second amended complaint, described above, with amended factual allegations and the addition of Piedmont as a defendant against whom relief is sought.

On October 21, 2011, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss the third amended complaint. The time for the plaintiffs to filefiled their response in opposition to the defendants' motion to dismiss has not yet expired.

on November 15, 2011. The defendants filed their reply in support of their motion to dismiss on December 9, 2011. The defendants' motion to dismiss is currently pending before the court.
Discovery is currently stayed pending resolution of the defendants' motion to dismiss.

We believe that theplaintiffs' allegations contained in the complaint are without merit, and as such, have determined that the risk of material loss associated with this lawsuit is remote. Further, we will continue to vigorously defend this action. Due to the uncertainties inherent in the litigation process, our assessment of the ultimate potential financial impactmerits of the caseclaim notwithstanding, the risk of material financial loss does exist, as with any litigation.exist.


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ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS
There have been no known material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20102011.

ITEM 2.UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
(a)
There were no unregistered sales of equity securities during the thirdfirst quarter 20112012.
(b)Not applicable.
(c)
During the quarter ended September 30, 2011March 31, 2012, Piedmont’s transfer agent repurchased sharesrepurchases of its common stock consisted solely of shares repurchased by its transfer agent in the open market, in order to reissue such shares under its dividend reinvestment plan (the “DRP”), as follows:
Period
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
(in 000’s)
 
Average Price Paid
per Share
 
Total Number of
Shares  Purchased
as Part of
Publicly Announced
Program
(in 000’s) (1)
 
Maximum Approximate
Dollar Value of Shares
Available That May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Program
(in 000’s)(1)
 
July 1, 2011 to July 31, 2011
 $
 
 $
  
August 1, 2011 to August 31, 2011
 $
 
 $
  
September 1, 2011 to September 30, 2011257
 $16.07
 
 $
(1) 
Period
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
(in 000’s)
 
Average Price Paid
per Share
 
Total Number of
Shares  Purchased
as Part of
Publicly Announced
Program
(in 000’s) (1)
 
Maximum Approximate
Dollar Value of Shares
Available That May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Program
(in 000’s)(1)
 
January 1, 2012 to January 31, 2012
 $
 
 $
  
February 1, 2012 to February 29, 2012
 $
 
 $
  
March 1, 2012 to March 31, 2012119
 $17.46
 
 $296,756
(1) 

(1) 
Under our amended and restated DRP announced in our Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 24, 2012, we have the option to either issue shares that we purchase in the open market or issue shares directly from Piedmont from authorized but unissued shares. Such election will take place at the settlement of each quarterly dividend in which there are participants in our DRP, and may change from quarter to quarter based on our judgment of the best use of proceeds for Piedmont. Therefore, repurchases may occur on a quarterly basis, butthe "Maximum Approximate Dollar Value of Shares Available That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program" relates only to the extent necessarystock repurchase program. The stock repurchase program was previously announced in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed November 3, 2011, and authorizes the repurchase of up to satisfy$300 million of shares of our common stock, expiring on November 2, 2013. The stock repurchase program is separate from shares purchased for DRP elections by our stockholders.issuance.

ITEM 3.DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
Not applicable.

ITEM 4.RESERVEDMINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

ITEM 5.OTHER INFORMATION
None.

30



ITEM 6.EXHIBITS
The Exhibits required to be filed with this report are set forth on the Exhibit Index to ThirdFirst Quarter 20112012 Form 10-Q of Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc. attached hereto.


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

  PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
  (Registrant)
    
Dated:NovemberMay 3, 20112012By:/s/ Robert E. Bowers
   Robert E. Bowers
   Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President
   (Principal Financial Officer and Duly Authorized Officer)

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EXHIBIT INDEX
TO
THIRDFIRST QUARTER 20112012
FORM 10-Q
OF
PIEDMONT OFFICE REALTY TRUST, INC.
Exhibit
Number
  Description of Document
3.1
  Third Articles of Amendment and Restatement of Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc. (the “Company”) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 filed on March 16, 2010)
   
3.2
  Articles of Amendment of the Company effective June 30, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 6, 2011)
   
3.3
 Articles Supplementary of the Company effective June 30, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 6, 2011)
   
3.4
 Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company’s current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 22, 2010)
   
10.1
2010 Long-Term Incentive Program Award Agreement
10.2
2010 Long-Term Incentive Program
10.3
Long-Term Incentive Program Award Agreement
10.4
Long-Term Incentive Program
10.5
Amendment Number One to Employment Agreement dated as of February 2, 2007, by and between the Company and Donald A. Miller, CFA (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on September 14, 2011)
31.1
  Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification, executed by Donald A. Miller, CFA, Principal Executive Officer of the Company
   
31.2
  Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification, executed by Robert E. Bowers, Principal Financial Officer of the Company
   
32.1
  Certification required by Rule 13a-14(b)/15d-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, executed by Donald A. Miller, CFA, Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company
   
32.2
  Certification required by Rule 13a-14(b)/15d-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, executed by Robert E. Bowers, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice-President of the Company
101.INS
 XBRL Instance Document *
   
101.SCH
 XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema *
   
101.CAL
 XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase *
   
101.DEF
 XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase *
   
101.LAB
 XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase *
   
101.PRE
 XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase *
   
*
 Furnished with this Form 10-Q
 


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