Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

Quarterly Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended March 31,June 30, 2023

Or

Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the Transition Period from ------------to------------

Commission File Number: 000-54295

Sterling Real Estate Trust

d/b/a Sterling Multifamily Trust

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

North Dakota

90-0115411

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

4340 18th Ave South,S., Suite 200, Fargo, North Dakota

58103

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

(701) 353-2720

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

(Former name, former address and formal fiscal year, if changed since last report)

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

Title of each class:

    

Trading Symbol

    

Name of each exchange on which registered:

Common Shares, par value $0.01 per share

N/A

N/A

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

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

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

Large accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

Smaller reporting company

Emerging growth company

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

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

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Class

Outstanding at May 8,August 7, 2023

Common Shares of Beneficial Interest,
$0.01 par value per share

11,043,18911,162,323

Table of Contents

STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX

Page

No.

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements (unaudited):

3

Consolidated Balance Sheets – as of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022

3

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income – Three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022

4

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity – Three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022

5

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – ThreeSix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022

67

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

89

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

2730

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

3743

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

3844

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

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

3845

Item 6. Exhibits

4147

Signatures

4248

Table of Contents

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

as of March 31,June 30, 2023 (UNAUDITED) and December 31, 2022

March 31,

December 31,

June 30,

December 31,

    

2023

    

2022

    

2023

    

2022

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

ASSETS

Real estate investments

Land and land improvements

$

129,982

$

129,682

$

128,029

$

129,682

Building and improvements

837,190

834,356

835,533

834,356

Construction in progress

6,086

7,110

7,921

7,110

Real estate investments

973,258

971,148

971,483

971,148

Less accumulated depreciation

(200,576)

(194,849)

(205,653)

(194,849)

Real estate investments, net

772,682

776,299

765,830

776,299

Cash and cash equivalents

12,064

3,257

6,182

3,257

Restricted deposits

9,245

9,323

9,093

9,323

Investment in securities

10,111

29,371

10,230

29,371

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

29,889

29,423

28,654

29,423

Notes receivable

9,789

8,448

10,154

8,448

Lease intangible assets, less accumulated amortization

4,589

5,290

3,304

5,290

Other assets, net

24,789

27,312

26,461

27,312

Total Assets

$

873,158

$

888,723

$

859,908

$

888,723

LIABILITIES

Mortgage notes payable, net

$

529,775

$

506,167

$

518,109

$

506,167

Notes payable

26,500

26,500

Lines of credit

1,008

1,008

Dividends payable

8,520

8,493

8,521

8,493

Tenant security deposits payable

6,569

6,368

6,954

6,368

Lease intangible liabilities, less accumulated amortization

609

646

544

646

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

13,648

16,075

13,427

16,075

Total Liabilities

559,121

565,257

547,555

565,257

COMMITMENTS and CONTINGENCIES - Note 13

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Beneficial interest

123,681

123,996

128,615

123,996

Noncontrolling interest

Operating partnership

176,352

183,048

167,760

183,048

Partially owned properties

2,600

2,640

2,551

2,640

Accumulated other comprehensive income

11,404

13,782

13,427

13,782

Total Shareholders' Equity

314,037

323,466

312,353

323,466

$

873,158

$

888,723

$

859,908

$

888,723

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

3

Table of Contents

STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME

FOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

June 30,

June 30,

2023

    

2022

    

2023

    

2022

(in thousands, except per share data)

(in thousands, except per share data)

Income from rental operations

Real estate rental income

$

35,550

$

33,817

$

70,730

$

66,734

Expenses

Expenses from rental operations

Operating expenses

16,352

13,157

34,473

27,846

Real estate taxes

3,804

3,638

7,604

7,135

Depreciation and amortization

6,484

5,963

13,036

11,745

Interest

5,331

4,954

10,687

9,800

31,971

27,712

65,800

56,526

Administration of REIT

1,140

1,400

2,451

2,617

Total expenses

33,111

29,112

68,251

59,143

Income from operations

2,439

4,705

2,479

7,591

Other income

Equity in (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates

(736)

(284)

(1,872)

(1,424)

Other income

340

152

747

442

Gain on sale or conversion of real estate investments

2,596

2,012

2,597

3,340

Gain on involuntary conversion

90

522

90

547

Total other income

2,290

2,402

1,562

2,905

Net income

$

4,729

$

7,107

$

4,041

$

10,496

Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest:

Operating partnership

(1,361)

4,531

(1,769)

6,676

Partially owned properties

(49)

8

(89)

38

Net income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

6,139

$

2,568

$

5,899

$

3,782

Net income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust per common share, basic and diluted

$

0.56

$

0.24

$

0.54

$

0.36

Comprehensive income:

Net income

$

4,729

$

7,107

$

4,041

$

10,496

Other comprehensive gain (loss) - change in fair value of interest rate swaps

2,023

3,815

(355)

10,339

Comprehensive income:

6,752

10,922

3,686

20,835

Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest

(141)

6,974

(2,082)

13,315

Comprehensive income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

6,893

$

3,948

$

5,768

$

7,520

Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted

11,039

10,564

10,996

10,515

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

4

Table of Contents

STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

FOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED June 30, 2023 (UNAUDITED)

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2023

    

2022

(in thousands, except per share data)

Income from rental operations

Real estate rental income

$

35,180

$

32,916

Expenses

Expenses from rental operations

Operating expenses

18,122

14,689

Real estate taxes

3,799

3,497

Depreciation and amortization

6,552

5,782

Interest

5,355

4,845

33,828

28,813

Administration of REIT

1,311

1,217

Total expenses

35,139

30,030

Income from operations

41

2,886

Other income

Equity in (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates

(1,136)

(1,141)

Other income

407

290

Gain on sale or conversion of real estate investments

1,329

Gain on involuntary conversion

25

Total other (loss) income

(729)

503

Net (loss) income

$

(688)

$

3,389

Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest:

Operating partnership

(408)

2,145

Partially owned properties

(40)

30

Net (loss) income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

(240)

$

1,214

Net (loss) income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust per common share, basic and diluted

$

(0.02)

$

0.12

Comprehensive income:

Net (loss) income

$

(688)

$

3,389

Other comprehensive (loss) gain - change in fair value of interest rate swaps

(2,378)

6,524

Comprehensive (loss) income

(3,066)

9,913

Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest

(1,948)

6,342

Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

(1,118)

$

3,571

Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted

10,952

10,465

Accumulated

Noncontrolling

Distributions

Total

Interest

Accumulated

Common

Paid-in

in Excess of

Beneficial

Operating

Partially Owned

Comprehensive

Shares

Capital

Earnings

Interest

Partnership

Properties

Income (Loss)

Total

(in thousands)

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2022

10,810

$ 159,003

($ 35,007)

$ 123,996

$ 183,048

$ 2,640

$ 13,782

$ 323,466

Shares/units redeemed

(8)

(181)

-

(181)

(915)

-

-

(1,096)

Dividends and distributions declared

-

-

(3,147)

(3,147)

(5,373)

-

-

(8,520)

Dividends reinvested - stock dividend

90

1,962

-

1,962

-

-

-

1,962

Issuance of shares under optional purchase plan

56

1,291

-

1,291

-

-

-

1,291

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

-

-

-

-

-

-

(2,378)

(2,378)

Net loss

-

-

(240)

(240)

(408)

(40)

-

(688)

BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2023

10,948

$ 162,075

($ 38,394)

$ 123,681

$ 176,352

$ 2,600

$ 11,404

$ 314,037

Shares/units redeemed

(45)

(979)

-

(979)

(1,883)

-

-

(2,862)

Dividends and distributions declared

-

-

(3,173)

(3,173)

(5,348)

-

-

(8,521)

Dividends reinvested - stock dividend

91

1,996

-

1,996

-

-

-

1,996

Issuance of shares under optional purchase plan

41

951

-

951

-

-

-

951

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,023

2,023

Net income

-

-

6,139

6,139

(1,361)

(49)

-

4,729

BALANCE AT JUNE 30, 2023

11,035

$ 164,043

($ 35,428)

$ 128,615

$ 167,760

$ 2,551

$ 13,427

$ 312,353

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

45

Table of Contents

STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Continued)

FOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2022March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

Accumulated

Noncontrolling

Distributions

Total

Interest

Accumulated

Common

Paid-in

in Excess of

Beneficial

Operating

Partially Owned

Comprehensive

    

Shares

    

Capital

    

Earnings

    

Interest

    

Partnership

    

Properties

    

Income (Loss)

    

Total

(in thousands)

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2021

10,342

$

148,562

$

(31,706)

$

116,856

$

176,954

$

2,657

$

(950)

$

295,517

Contribution of assets in exchange for the issuance of noncontrolling interest shares

10,180

10,180

Shares/units redeemed

(18)

(401)

(401)

(335)

(736)

Dividends and distributions declared

(3,007)

(3,007)

(5,359)

(8,366)

Dividends reinvested - stock dividend

79

1,716

1,716

1,716

Issuance of shares under optional purchase plan

57

1,313

1,313

1,313

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

6,524

6,524

Net income

1,214

1,214

2,145

30

3,389

BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2022

10,460

$

151,190

$

(33,499)

$

117,691

$

183,585

$

2,687

$

5,574

$

309,537

Accumulated

Noncontrolling

Accumulated

Noncontrolling

Distributions

Total

Interest

Accumulated

Distributions

Total

Interest

Accumulated

Common

Paid-in

in Excess of

Beneficial

Operating

Partially Owned

Comprehensive

Common

Paid-in

in Excess of

Beneficial

Operating

Partially Owned

Comprehensive

Shares

Capital

Earnings

Interest

Partnership

Properties

Income (Loss)

Total

Shares

Capital

Earnings

Interest

Partnership

Properties

Income (Loss)

Total

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2022

10,810

$ 159,003

($ 35,007)

$ 123,996

$ 183,048

$ 2,640

$ 13,782

$ 323,466

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2021

10,342

$ 148,562

($ 31,706)

$ 116,856

$ 176,954

$ 2,657

($ 950)

$ 295,517

Contribution of assets in exchange for the issuance of noncontrolling interest shares

-

-

-

10,180

-

-

10,180

Shares/units redeemed

(8)

(181)

-

(181)

(915)

-

-

(1,096)

(18)

(401)

-

(401)

(335)

-

-

(736)

Dividends and distributions declared

-

-

(3,147)

(3,147)

(5,373)

-

-

(8,520)

-

(3,007)

(3,007)

(5,359)

-

-

(8,366)

Dividends reinvested - stock dividend

90

1,962

-

1,962

-

-

-

1,962

79

1,716

-

1,716

-

-

-

1,716

Issuance of shares under optional purchase plan

56

1,291

-

1,291

-

-

-

1,291

57

1,313

-

1,313

-

-

-

1,313

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

-

-

-

-

-

-

(2,378)

(2,378)

-

-

-

-

-

6,524

6,524

Net loss

-

-

(240)

(240)

(408)

(40)

-

(688)

BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2023

10,948

$ 162,075

($ 38,394)

$ 123,681

$ 176,352

$ 2,600

$ 11,404

$ 314,037

Net income

-

1,214

1,214

2,145

30

-

3,389

BALANCE AT MARCH 31, 2022

10,460

$ 151,190

($ 33,499)

$ 117,691

$ 183,585

$ 2,687

$ 5,574

$ 309,537

Shares/units redeemed

(18)

(386)

-

(386)

(138)

-

-

(524)

Dividends and distributions declared

-

-

(3,037)

(3,037)

(5,357)

-

-

(8,394)

Dividends reinvested - stock dividend

86

1,877

-

1,877

-

-

-

1,877

Issuance of shares under optional purchase plan

35

806

-

806

-

-

-

806

Change in fair value of interest rate swaps

-

-

-

-

-

-

3,815

3,815

Net income

-

-

2,568

2,568

4,531

8

-

7,107

BALANCE AT JUNE 30, 2022

10,563

$ 153,487

($ 33,968)

$ 119,519

$ 182,621

$ 2,695

$ 9,389

$ 314,224

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

56

Table of Contents

STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE THREESIX MONTHS ENDED March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

March 31,

June 30,

    

2023

    

2022

    

2023

    

2022

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Net (loss) income

$

(688)

$

3,389

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities

Gain on sale or conversion of real estate investments

(1,329)

Net income

$

4,041

$

10,496

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities

Gain on sale of real estate investments

(2,596)

(3,340)

Gain on involuntary conversion

(90)

(547)

Change in fair value of securities

(109)

(228)

Equity in loss of unconsolidated affiliates

1,136

1,141

1,872

1,424

Distributions of earnings of unconsolidated affiliates

4

177

Allowance for uncollectible accounts receivable

(225)

(544)

98

(380)

Depreciation

5,801

5,390

11,704

10,858

Amortization

751

392

1,332

887

Amortization of debt issuance costs

153

157

293

337

Effects on operating cash flows due to changes in

Other assets

434

1,583

169

(1,422)

Tenant security deposits payable

201

362

586

942

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

(2,980)

(3,088)

(3,624)

(3,935)

NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES

4,474

7,457

13,557

15,497

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from maturity of securities

19,369

19,369

Purchase of real estate investment properties

(4,893)

(26,131)

Capital expenditures and tenant improvements

(1,782)

(2,402)

(4,741)

(5,423)

Proceeds from sale of real estate investments and non-real estate investments

2,622

5,082

6,266

Proceeds from involuntary conversion

261

111

733

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

(2,261)

(6,444)

(2,546)

(7,749)

Distributions in excess of earnings received from unconsolidated affiliates

659

105

1,443

312

Notes receivable issued net of payments received

(1,341)

564

(1,706)

2,034

NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES

14,644

(10,187)

17,012

(29,958)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Payments for financing, debt issuance

(158)

(95)

(158)

(201)

Proceeds from issuance of mortgage notes payable and subordinated debt

30,250

12,867

Principal payments on special assessments payable

(59)

Proceeds from issuance of mortgage notes payable

35,250

23,305

Principal payments on mortgage notes payable

(6,637)

(3,931)

(20,628)

(8,921)

Payments on lines of credit

(1,008)

(1,008)

Payment on notes payable

(26,500)

(26,500)

Proceeds from issuance of shares under optional purchase plan

1,291

1,313

2,242

2,119

Shares/units redeemed

(1,096)

(736)

(3,958)

(1,260)

Dividends/distributions paid

(6,531)

(5,851)

(13,055)

(12,340)

NET CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES

(10,389)

3,567

(27,874)

2,702

NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED DEPOSITS

8,729

837

2,695

(11,759)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED DEPOSITS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD

12,580

60,656

12,580

60,656

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED DEPOSITS AT END OF PERIOD

$

21,309

$

61,493

$

15,275

$

48,897

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED DEPOSITS AT END OF PERIOD

Cash and cash equivalents

$

12,064

$

49,854

$

6,182

$

40,072

Restricted deposits

9,245

11,639

9,093

8,825

TOTAL CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED DEPOSITS, END OF PERIOD

$

21,309

$

61,493

$

15,275

$

48,897

(Continued)

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

67

Table of Contents

STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)

FOR THE THREESIX MONTHS ENDED March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED) (Continued)

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

March 31,

June 30,

    

2023

    

2022

    

2023

    

2022

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

SCHEDULE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION

Cash paid during the period for interest, net of capitalized interest

$

5,061

$

4,698

$

10,290

$

9,526

SUPPLEMENTARY SCHEDULE OF NONCASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Dividends reinvested

$

1,962

$

1,716

$

3,958

$

3,593

Dividends declared and not paid

3,147

3,007

3,173

3,037

UPREIT distributions declared and not paid

5,373

5,359

5,348

5,357

Acquisition of assets in exchange for the issuance of noncontrolling interest units in UPREIT

10,180

10,180

Increase in land improvements due to increase in special assessments payable

300

300

195

Unrealized (loss) gain on interest rate swaps

(2,378)

6,524

(355)

10,339

Acquisition of assets through assumption of debt and liabilities

(15,073)

36,311

Capitalized interest and real estate taxes related to construction in progress

23

46

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Note 1 - Organization

Sterling Real Estate Trust d/b/a Sterling Multifamily Trust (“Sterling,” the “Trust”Sterling”, “the Trust” or the “Company”“the Company”) is a registered, but unincorporated business trust organized in North Dakota in December 2002.  Sterling has elected to be taxed as a Real Estate Investment Trust (“REIT”) under Sections 856-860 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Sterling previously established an operating partnership (SterlingOperating Partnership (“Sterling Properties, LLLPLLLP” or the “Operating Partnership”) and transferred all of its assets and liabilities to the Operating Partnership in exchange for general partnership units. As the general partner, Sterling has management responsibility for all activities of the Operating Partnership. As of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, Sterling owned approximately 36.94%37.24% and 36.60%, respectively, of the Operating Partnership.

NOTE 2 – PRINCIPAL ACTIVITY AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2022, which have previously been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) have been omitted from this report on Form 10-Q pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC.

The results for the interim periods shown in this report are not necessarily indicative of future financial results. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include all adjustments necessary to present fairly our consolidated financial statements as of and for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023. These adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Sterling, Sterling Properties, LLLP, and wholly ownedwholly-owned limited liability companies. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the Trust owned approximately 36.94% 37.24% of the partnership interests (“OP Units”) of the Operating Partnership. The remaining OP Units, consisting exclusively of limited partner interests, are held by persons who contributed their interests in properties to the Operating Partnership in exchange for OP Units. Under the LLLP Agreement and the redemptions plans,individual’s respective redemption plan, these persons have the right to request the Operating Partnership redeem their OP Units following a specified restricted period. All redemptions are at the sole discretion of the Trust, acting for itself or in its capacity as General Partner of the Operating Partnership, and further subject to the conditions and limitations of the LLLP Agreement and redemption plans, as the same may be amended or modified from time to time. If the Trust accepts a redemption request, the redemption of OP Units shall be made in cash in an amount equal to the fair value of an equivalent number of common shares of the Trust. In lieu of delivering cash, however, the Trust, as the Operating Partnership’s general partner, may, at its option and in its sole and absolute discretion, choose to acquire any OP Units so tendered by issuing common shares in exchange for the tendered OP Units. If the Trust so chooses, its common shares will be exchanged for OP Units on a one-for-one basis. This one-for-one exchange ratio is subject to adjustment to prevent dilution. With each such exchange or redemption, the Trust’s percentage ownership in the Operating Partnership will increase. In addition, whenever the Trust issues common or other classes of its shares, it contributes the net proceeds it receives from the issuance to the Operating Partnership and the Operating Partnership issues to the Trust an equal number of OP Units or other partnership interests having preferences and

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

rights that mirror the preferences and rights of the shares issued. This structure is commonly referred to as an umbrella partnership REIT or “UPREIT.”

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Additionally, we evaluate the need to consolidate affiliates based on standards set forth in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 810, Consolidation (“ASC 810”).  In determining whether we have a requirement to consolidate the accounts of an entity, management considers factors such as our ownership interest, our authority to make decisions and contractual and substantive participating rights of the limited partners and shareholders, as well as whether the entity is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) for which we have both: a) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, and b) the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could be potentially significant to the VIE. The Trust will consolidate the operations of a joint venture if the Trust determines that it is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity (VIE) and has substantial influence and control of the entity.

In instances where the Trust determines that it is not the primary beneficiary of a VIE and the Trust does not control the joint venture but can exercise influence over the entity with respect to its operations and major decisions, the Trust will use the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method, the operations of a joint venture will not be consolidated with the Trust’s operations but instead its share of operations will be reflected as equity in earnings (losses) of unconsolidated affiliates on its consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.income. Additionally, the Trust’s net investment in the joint venture will be reflected as investment in unconsolidated affiliatesentity on the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 5 for additional details regarding variable interest entities where the Trust uses the equity method of investing.

The Operating Partnership meets the criteria as a variable interest entity (“VIE”). The Trust’s sole significant asset is its investment in the Operating Partnership. As a result, substantially all of the Trust’s assets and liabilities represent those assets and liabilities of the Operating Partnership. All of the Trust’s debt is an obligation of the Operating Partnership, and the Trust guarantees the unsecured debt obligations of the Operating Partnership.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Our cash balances are maintained in various bank deposit accounts. The bank deposit amounts in these accounts may exceed federally insured limits at various times throughout the year.

Use of Estimates

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

Real Estate Investments

Real estate investments are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation.  Ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.

The Trust allocates the purchase price of each acquired investment property accounted for as an asset acquisition based upon the relative fair value at acquisition date of the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed, which generally include (i) land, (ii) building and other improvements, (iii) in-place lease intangibles, (iv) acquired above and below market lease intangibles, and (v) assumed financing that is determined to be above or below market, if any. Transaction costs related to acquisitions accounted for as asset acquisitions are capitalized as a cost of the property.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

lease intangibles, and (v) assumed financing that is determined to be above or below market, if any. Transaction costs related to acquisitions are accounted for as asset acquisitions and capitalized as a cost of the property.

For tangible assets acquired, including land, building and other improvements, the Trust considers available comparable market and industry information in estimating acquisition date fair value. Key factors considered in the calculation of fair value of both real property and intangible assets include the current market rent values, “dark” periods (building in vacant status), direct costs estimated with obtaining a new tenant, discount rates, escalation factors, standard lease terms, and tenant improvement costs.

Furniture and fixtures are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for renewals and improvements that significantly add to the productive capacity or extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized. Expenditures for routine maintenance and repairs, which do not add to the value or extend useful lives, are expensed as incurred.

Depreciation is provided for over the estimated useful lives of the individual assets using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:

Buildings and improvements

    

40 years

Furniture, fixtures and equipment

 

5-95-9 years

The Trust’s investment properties are reviewed for potential impairment at the end of each reporting period or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. At the end of each reporting period, the Trust separately determines whether impairment indicators exist for each property.

Based on evaluation, there were no impairment losses during the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022.

Federal Income Taxes

We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code, as amended. A REIT calculates taxable income similar to other domestic corporations, with the major difference being a REIT is entitled to a deduction for dividends paid. A REIT is generally required to distribute each year at least 90% of its taxable income. If it chooses to retain the remaining 10% of taxable income, it may do so, but it will be subject to a corporate tax on such income. REIT shareholders are generally taxed on REIT distributions of ordinary income in the same manner as they are taxed on other corporate distributions.

We intend to continue to qualify as a REIT and, provided we maintain such status, will not be taxed on the portion of the income that is distributed to shareholders. In addition, we intend to distribute all of our taxable income; therefore, no provisions or liabilities for income taxes have been recorded in the financial statements.

We follow FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, to recognize, measure, present and disclose in our consolidated financial statements uncertain tax positions that we have taken or expect to take on a tax return. As of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, we did not have any liabilities for uncertain tax positions that we believe should be recognized in our consolidated financial statements. We are no longer subject to Federal and State tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2018.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Revenue Recognition

The Trust is the lessor for its residential and commercial leases. Leases are analyzed on an individual basis to determine lease classification. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, all leases analyzed under the Trust’s lease classification process were determined to be operating leases.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Earnings per Common Share

Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders (the “numerator”) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding (the “denominator”) during the period. Sterling had no dilutive potential common shares during the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and therefore, basic earnings per common share was equal to diluted earnings per common share for both periods.

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, Sterling’s denominators for the basic and diluted earnings per

common share were approximately 10,952,00010,996,000 and 10,465,000,10,515,000, respectively.

NOTE 3 – segment reporting

We report our results in two reportable segments: residential and commercial properties. Our residential properties include multifamily properties. Our commercial properties include retail, office, industrial, restaurant and medical properties. We assess and measure operating results based on net operating income (“NOI”), which we define as total real estate segment revenues less real estate expenses (which consist of real estate taxes, property management fees, utilities, repairs and maintenance, insurance, and property administrative and management fees). We believe NOI is an important measure of operating performance even though it should not be considered an alternative to net income or cash flow from operating activities. NOI is unaffected by financing, depreciation, amortization, legal and professional fees, and certain general and administrative expenses. The accounting policies of each segment are consistent with those described in Note 2 of this report.

Segment Revenues and Net Operating Income

The revenues and net operating income for the reportable segments (residential and commercial) are summarized as follows for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, along with reconciliations to the consolidated financial statements. Segment assets are also reconciled to Total Assetstotal assets as reported in the consolidated financial statements.

Three months ended March 31, 2023

Three months ended March 31, 2022

Three months ended June 30, 2023

Three months ended June 30, 2022

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Income from rental operations

$

29,920

$

5,260

$

35,180

$

27,494

$

5,422

$

32,916

$

30,574

$

4,976

$

35,550

$

28,502

$

5,315

$

33,817

Expenses from rental operations

20,203

1,718

21,921

16,508

1,678

18,186

18,730

1,426

20,156

15,246

1,549

16,795

Net operating income

$

9,717

$

3,542

$

13,259

$

10,986

$

3,744

$

14,730

$

11,844

$

3,550

$

15,394

$

13,256

$

3,766

$

17,022

Depreciation and amortization

6,552

5,782

6,484

5,963

Interest

5,355

4,845

5,331

4,954

Administration of REIT

1,311

1,217

1,140

1,400

Other loss (income)

729

(503)

Net (loss) income

$

(688)

$

3,389

Other income

(2,290)

(2,402)

Net income

$

4,729

$

7,107

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Six months ended June 30, 2023

Six months ended June 30, 2022

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Income from rental operations

$

60,494

$

10,236

$

70,730

$

55,997

$

10,737

$

66,734

Expenses from rental operations

38,934

3,143

42,077

31,753

3,228

34,981

Net operating income

$

21,560

$

7,093

$

28,653

$

24,244

$

7,509

$

31,753

Depreciation and amortization

13,036

11,745

Interest

10,687

9,800

Administration of REIT

2,451

2,617

Other income

(1,562)

(2,905)

Net income

$

4,041

$

10,496

Segment Assets and Accumulated Depreciation

As of March 31, 2023

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

As of June 30, 2023

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Real estate investments

$

781,600

$

191,658

$

973,258

$

784,376

$

187,107

$

971,483

Accumulated depreciation

(151,675)

(48,901)

(200,576)

(156,200)

(49,453)

(205,653)

Total real estate investments, net

$

629,925

$

142,757

$

772,682

$

628,176

$

137,654

$

765,830

Lease intangible assets, less accumulated amortization

328

4,261

4,589

3,304

3,304

Cash and cash equivalents

12,064

6,182

Restricted deposits

9,245

9,093

Investment in securities

10,111

10,230

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

29,889

28,654

Notes receivable

9,789

10,154

Other assets, net

24,789

26,461

Total Assets

$

873,158

$

859,908

As of December 31, 2022

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

Real estate investments

$

779,424

$

191,724

$

971,148

Accumulated depreciation

(147,115)

(47,734)

(194,849)

Total real estate investments, net

$

632,309

$

143,990

$

776,299

Lease intangible assets, less accumulated amortization

839

4,451

5,290

Cash and cash equivalents

3,257

Restricted deposits

9,323

Investment in securities

29,371

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

29,423

Notes receivable

8,448

Other assets, net

27,312

Total Assets

$

888,723

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

NOTE 4 – restrictedRestricted deposits and fundedFUNDED reserves

The following table summarizes the Trust’s restricted deposits and funded reserves.

    

As of March 31,

As of December 31,

    

As of June 30,

As of December 31,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Tenant security deposits

$

6,410

$

6,242

$

6,746

$

6,242

Real estate tax and insurance escrows

1,051

1,336

657

1,336

Replacement reserves

1,784

1,745

1,690

1,745

$

9,245

$

9,323

$

9,093

$

9,323

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

NOTE 5 – INVESTMENT IN UNCONSOLIDATED AFFILIATESInvestment in unconsolidated affiliates

The Company’s investments in unconsolidated real estate ventures, are summarized as follows (in thousands):

Total Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliates at

Unconsolidated Affiliates

Date Acquired

Trust Ownership Interest

March 31, 2023

December 31, 2022

Banner Building

2007

66.67%

$

(444)

$

(614)

Grand Forks INREIT, LLC

2003

50%

5,057

4,961

SE Savage, LLC

2019

60%

1,479

1,660

SE Maple Grove, LLC

2019

60%

1,277

1,836

SE Rogers, LLC

2020

60%

2,019

2,413

ST Oak Cliff, LLC

2021

70%

8,922

9,098

SE Brooklyn Park, LLC

2021

60%

2,354

2,914

SE Fossil Creek, LLC

2022

70%

9,225

7,155

$

29,889

$

29,423

Total Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliates at

Unconsolidated Affiliates

Date Acquired

Trust Ownership Interest

June 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

Banner Building

2007

66.67%

$

(453)

$

(614)

Grand Forks INREIT, LLC

2003

50%

5,114

4,961

SE Savage, LLC

2019

60%

1,318

1,660

SE Maple Grove, LLC

2019

60%

1,105

1,836

SE Rogers, LLC

2020

60%

1,850

2,413

ST Oak Cliff, LLC

2021

70%

8,494

9,098

SE Brooklyn Park, LLC

2021

60%

2,017

2,914

SE Fossil Creek, LLC

2022

70%

9,209

7,155

$

28,654

$

29,423

The Operating Partnership owns a 66.67% interest as tenant in common in an office building in Fargo, North Dakota. The property is encumbered by a first mortgage with a balance at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 of $6,860$6,814 and $6,951, respectively. The Trust is jointly and severally liable for the full mortgage balance.

The Operating Partnership is aowns 50% owner of ainterest as tenant in common through 100% ownership in a limited liability company.  The property is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The property is encumbered by a non-recourse first mortgage with a balance at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 of $9,453$9,040 and $9,520, respectively. The Trust is jointly and severally liable for the full mortgage balance.

The Operating Partnership owns a 60% interest in a limited liability company that holds a multifamily property. The entity is encumbered by a first mortgage with a balance at March 31, 2023 of $30,622$30,517 and $30,726 at June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. The property is also encumbered by a second mortgage to Sterling Properties, LLLP with a balance of $654 and $1,397 at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2021 of $744 and $1,397,2022, respectively. The Trust is jointly and severally liable for the full mortgage balance.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

The Operating Partnership owns a 60% interest in a limited liability company that that holds a multifamily property. The entity is encumbered by a construction mortgage with a balance at both March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 of $24,788.  The property is also encumbered by a second mortgage to Sterling Properties, LLLP with a balance at both March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 of $3,643. The Trust is jointly and severally liable for the full mortgage balance.

The Operating Partnership owns a 60% interest in a limited liability company that is currently developing a multifamily property. The LLC holds land located in Rogers, Minnesota, with total assets of $33,853$32,427 and $32,864 at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.  The entity is encumbered by a construction mortgage withhas a balance of $25,742 at both MarchJune 30, 2023 and December 31, 2023December 31, 2022 of $25,742.2022. The property is also encumbered by a second mortgage to Sterling Properties, LLLP with a balance at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 of $3,292$3,390 and $2,938, respectively. The Trust is jointly and severally liable for the full mortgage balance.

The Operating Partnership owns a 70% interest in a limited liability company, with a related party. The entity is currently developing a multifamily property. As of both March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Operating Partnership has contributed $9,300 in cash to the entity. The entity holds land located in Dallas, Texas with total assets of $45,481$47,228 and $40,404 at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. The entity is encumbered by a construction mortgage

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

with a balance outstanding related to the mortgageof $32,010 and $23,409 at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, of $28,659 and $23,409, respectively. The Trust is jointly and severally liable for the full mortgage balance.

The Operating Partnership owns a 60% interest in a limited liability company, with an unrelated third party. The entity is currently developing a multifamily property. The entity is located in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, with total assets of $30,822$30,761 and $30,490  at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. The entity is encumbered by a construction mortgage that has a balance of $24,592 and $24,448 at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. The entity is also encumbered by a second mortgage to Sterling Properties, LLLP with a balance at March 31,June 30, 2023 of $1,659.$2,310. There was no balance outstanding balance related to the second mortgage asat December 31, 2022. The Trust is jointly and severally liable for the full mortgage balance.

The Operating PartnershipsPartnership owns a 70% interest in a limited liability company, with a related party.  The entity is currently developing a multifamily property.  As of March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Operating Partnership has contributed $9,275 and $7,190, respectively, in cash to the entity.  The entity holds land located in Fort Worth, Texas with total assets of $20,731$29,218 and $11,083 at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.  The entity is encumbered by a construction mortgage with a balance outstanding related to the mortgage at March 31,June 30, 2023 of $2,726.$12,274.  There was no outstanding balance related to the construction mortgage at December 31, 2022. The Trust is jointly and severally liable for the full mortgage balance.

The following is a summary of the financial position of the unconsolidated affiliates at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

    

March 31, 2023

    

December 31, 2022

(in thousands)

ASSETS

Real estate investments

$

234,751

$

218,747

Accumulated depreciation

(18,966)

(16,490)

215,785

202,257

Cash and cash equivalents

2,815

3,093

Restricted deposits

1,297

1,034

Note receivable

1,224

Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization

822

542

Other assets, net

724

827

Total Assets

$

222,667

$

207,753

LIABILITIES

Mortgage notes payable, net

$

161,649

$

152,246

Tenant security deposits payable

248

192

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

13,180

8,217

Total Liabilities

$

175,077

$

160,655

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Total Shareholders' Equity

$

47,590

$

47,098

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

$

222,667

$

207,753

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

The following is a summary of the financial position of the unconsolidated affiliates at June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

    

June 30, 2023

    

December 31, 2022

(in thousands)

ASSETS

Real estate investments

$

245,807

$

218,747

Accumulated depreciation

(21,385)

(16,490)

224,422

202,257

Cash and cash equivalents

3,130

3,093

Restricted deposits

561

1,034

Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization

858

542

Other assets, net

496

827

Total Assets

$

229,467

$

207,753

LIABILITIES

Mortgage notes payable, net

$

174,782

$

152,246

Tenant security deposits payable

301

192

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

9,115

8,217

Total Liabilities

$

184,198

$

160,655

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Total Shareholders' Equity

$

45,269

$

47,098

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

$

229,467

$

207,753

The following is a summary of results of operations of the unconsolidated affiliates for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022.

Three months ended
March 31,

Three months ended
June 30,

Six months ended June 30,

    

2023

    

2022

    

2023

    

2022

    

2023

    

2022

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Income from rental operations

$

3,707

$

1,730

$

4,633

$

2,076

$

8,340

$

3,806

Expenses from rental operations

1,778

812

1,717

682

3,495

1,494

Net operating income

$

1,929

$

918

$

2,916

$

1,394

$

4,845

$

2,312

Depreciation and Amortization

2,492

1,827

2,441

1,187

4,933

3,014

Interest

1,344

1,012

1,448

665

2,792

1,677

Other expense

(85)

10

98

-

13

11

Net loss

$

(1,822)

$

(1,931)

$

(1,071)

$

(458)

$

(2,893)

$

(2,390)

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

NOTE 6 - Lease intangibles

The following table summarizes the net value of other intangible assets and liabilities and the accumulated amortization for each class of intangible:

Lease

Accumulated

Lease

Lease

Accumulated

Lease

As of March 31, 2023

    

Intangibles

    

Amortization

    

Intangibles, net

As of June 30, 2023

    

Intangibles

    

Amortization

    

Intangibles, net

Lease Intangible Assets

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

In-place leases

$

15,528

$

(11,632)

$

3,896

$

14,113

$

(11,344)

$

2,769

Above-market leases

1,897

(1,204)

693

1,415

(880)

535

$

17,425

$

(12,836)

$

4,589

$

15,528

$

(12,224)

$

3,304

Lease Intangible Liabilities

Below-market leases

$

(2,380)

$

1,771

$

(609)

$

(2,326)

$

1,782

$

(544)

Lease

Accumulated

Lease

As of December 31, 2022

    

Intangibles

    

Amortization

    

Intangibles, net

Lease Intangible Assets

(in thousands)

In-place leases

$

15,528

$

(10,960)

$

4,568

Above-market leases

1,897

(1,175)

722

$

17,425

$

(12,135)

$

5,290

Lease Intangible Liabilities

Below-market leases

$

(2,379)

$

1,733

$

(646)

The estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years and thereafter is as follows:

Intangible

Intangible

Intangible

Intangible

Years ending December 31,

    

Assets

    

Liabilities

    

Assets

    

Liabilities

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

2023 (April 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023)

$

896

$

113

2023 (July 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023)

$

320

$

74

2024

757

151

641

147

2025

757

151

641

147

2026

606

80

490

77

2027

498

42

381

38

Thereafter

1,075

72

831

61

$

4,589

$

609

$

3,304

$

544

NOTE 7 – LINES OF CREDIT

We have a $4,915 variable rate (floating SOFR plus 2.00%) line of credit agreement with Bremer Bank, which expires in December 2026; and a $5,000 variable rate (floating SOFR plus 2.00%) line of credit agreement with Bremer Bank, which expires December 2026. The lines of credit are secured by specific properties. At June 30, 2023, the Bremer line of credit secures one letter of credit totaling $50, leaving $9,865 available and unused under the agreements. These operating lines

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

NOTE 7 – LINES OF CREDIT

We have a $4,915 variable rate (floating SOFR plus 2.00%) line of credit agreement with Bremer Bank, which expires in December 2026; and a $5,000 variable rate (floating SOFR plus 2.00%) line of credit agreement with Bremer Bank, which expires December 2026. The lines of credit are secured by specific properties. At March 31, 2023, the Bremer Bank line of credit secures one letter of credit totaling $50, leaving $9,865 available and unused under the agreements. These operating lines are designed to enhance treasury management activities and more effectively manage cash balances. There was no balance outstanding on either line at March 31,As of June 30, 2023 and $1,008 at December 31, 2022.2022, there was a balance of $0 and $1,008, respectively.

Certain lines of credit agreements include covenants that, in part, impose maintenance of certain debt service coverage and debt to net worth ratios.

NOTE 8 - NOTES PAYABLE

On December 29, 2022, the Trust entered into a $26,500 note payable. The note payable bears interest at a rate of one percentage point underwas paid off on January 13, 2023, which effectively cancelled the “Prime Rate” as published in the Wall Street Journal, with principal plus accrued and unpaid interest due and payable on February 1, 2023. The Borrower may prepay the New Promissory Note without penalty.promissory note. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the Trust did not have any outstanding balance on the notenotes payable. As of December 31, 2022, the balance on the note payable was $26,500.

The following table summarizes the Trust’s mortgage notes payable.

Principal Balance At

Principal Balance At

March 31,

December 31,

June 30,

December 31,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Fixed rate mortgage notes payable (a)

$

531,918

$

508,305

$

520,112

$

508,305

Variable rate mortgage notes payable

-

-

-

-

Mortgage notes payable

531,918

508,305

520,112

508,305

Less unamortized debt issuance costs

2,143

2,138

2,003

2,138

$

529,775

$

506,167

$

518,109

$

506,167

(a)Includes $105,340$104,648 and $108,734$106,033 of variable rate mortgage debt that was swapped to a fixed rate at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.

We are required to make the following principal payments on our outstanding mortgage notes payable for each of the five succeeding fiscal years and thereafter as follows:

Years ending December 31,

    

Amount

    

Amount

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

2023 (April 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023)

$

46,741

2023 (July 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023)

$

33,089

2024

22,433

22,250

2025

53,190

53,170

2026

73,110

70,688

2027

77,912

78,081

Thereafter

258,532

262,834

Total payments

$

531,918

$

520,112

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

NOTE 9 – DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

As part of our interest rate risk management strategy, we have used derivative instruments to manage our exposure to interest rate movements and add stability to interest expense. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable rate amounts from a counterparty incounterparty. In exchange, for the Trust makingmakes fixed rate payments over the life of the agreement without exchange of the underlying notional amount.

As of March 31, 2023, the Trust used 12 interest rate swaps to hedge the variable cash flows associated with variable rate debt. Changes in fair value of the derivatives that are designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss and are reclassified into interest expense as interest payments are made on the Trust’s variable rate debt. During the next 12 months, the Trust estimates that an additional $3,039 will be reclassified as a decrease to interest expense.

The following table summarizes the Trust’s interest rate swaps as of March 31, 2023, which effectively convert on month floating rate LIBOR to a fixed rate:

Fixed

Effective Date

Notional

Interest Rate

Maturity Date

November 1, 2019

$

6,523

3.15%

November 1, 2029

November 1, 2019

$

4,536

3.28%

November 1, 2029

January 10, 2020

$

2,956

3.39%

January 10, 2030

July 1, 2020

$

4,716

2.79%

June 10, 2030

December 2, 2020

$

12,273

2.91%

December 2, 2027

July 1, 2021

$

25,512

2.99%

July 1, 2031

November 10, 2021

$

27,903

3.54%

August 1, 2029

December 1, 2021

$

10,739

3.32%

December 1, 2031

August 15, 2022

$

1,479

3.07%

June 15, 2030

August 15, 2022

$

2,865

3.07%

June 15, 2030

August 15, 2022

$

1,601

2.94%

June 15, 2030

August 15, 2022

$

4,237

2.94%

June 15, 2030

The following table summarizes the Trust’s interest rate swaps that were designated as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk:

Number of Instruments

Notional

Interest Rate Derivatives

March 31, 2023

December 31, 2022

March 31, 2023

December 31, 2022

Interest rate swaps

12

12

$

105,340

$

106,033

The table below presents the estimated fair value of the Trust’s derivative financial instruments as well as their classification in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The valuation techniques are described in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.

Derivatives designated as

  

March 31, 2023

  

December 31, 2022

cash flow hedges:

Balance Sheet Location

Fair Value

Balance Sheet Location

Fair Value

Interest rate swaps

Other assets, net

$

11,404

Other assets, net

$

13,782

Interest rate swaps

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

$

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

$

The carrying amount of the swaps have been adjusted to their fair value at the end of the quarter, which because of changes in forecasted levels of LIBOR, resulted in reporting an asset and liability for the fair value of the future net payments

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

As of June 30, 2023, the Trust used 12 interest rate swaps to hedge the variable cash flows associated with variable rate debt. Changes in fair value of the derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are reclassified into interest expense as interest payments are made on the Trust’s variable rate debt. During the next twelve months, the Trust estimates that an additional $3,896 will be reclassified as a decrease to interest expense.

The following table summarizes the Trust’s interest rate swaps as of June 30, 2023, which effectively convert one month floating rate LIBOR or 30-day average SOFR to a fixed rate:

Fixed

Effective Date

Notional

Interest Rate

Maturity Date

November 1, 2019

$

6,470

3.15%

November 1, 2029

November 1, 2019

$

4,500

3.28%

November 1, 2029

January 10, 2020

$

2,933

3.39%

January 10, 2030

December 2, 2020

$

12,183

2.91%

December 2, 2027

July 1, 2021

$

25,346

2.99%

July 1, 2031

November 10, 2021

$

27,760

3.54%

August 1, 2029

December 1, 2021

$

10,665

3.32%

December 1, 2031

August 15, 2022

$

1,467

3.07%

June 15, 2030

August 15, 2022

$

2,843

3.07%

June 15, 2030

August 15, 2022

$

1,589

2.94%

June 15, 2030

August 15, 2022

$

4,204

2.94%

June 15, 2030

May 10, 2023

$

4,688

2.79%

June 10, 2030

The following table summarizes the Trust’s interest rate swaps that were designated as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk:

Number of Instruments

Notional

Interest Rate Derivatives

June 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

June 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

Interest rate swaps

12

12

$

104,648

$

106,033

The table below presents the estimated fair value of the Trust’s derivative financial instruments as well as their classification in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The valuation techniques are described in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.

Derivatives designated as

June 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

cash flow hedges:

Balance Sheet Location

Fair Value

Balance Sheet Location

Fair Value

Interest rate swaps

Other assets, net

$

13,427

Other assets, net

$

13,782

The carrying amounts of the swaps have been adjusted to their fair value at the end of the quarter, which because of changes in forecasted levels of LIBOR and 30-day average SOFR, resulted in reporting an asset for the fair value of the future net payments forecasted under the swap.  The interest rate swap is accounted for as an effective hedge in accordance with ASC 815-20 whereby it is recorded at fair value and changes in fair value are recorded to comprehensive income.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

The following table presents the effect of the Company’sTrust’s derivative financial instruments on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and other comprehensive loss (income) for the quartersthree months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022:

Location of Gain

Location of Gain

Amount of (Gain)/Loss

Reclassified from

Amount of Gain

Reclassified from

Derivatives in

Recognized in Other

Accumulated other

Amount of (Gain)/Loss

Recognized in Other

Accumulated other

Amount of (Gain)/Loss

Cash Flow Hedging

Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive Income

Reclassified from

Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive Income

Reclassified from

Relationships

on Derivatives

(AOCI) into Income

AOCI into Income

on Derivatives

(AOCI) into Income

AOCI into Income

2023

2023

2023

2023

Interest rate swaps

$

2,378

Interest expense

$

(765)

$

(2,023)

Interest expense

$

(917)

2022

2022

2022

2022

Interest rate swaps

$

(6,524)

Interest expense

$

361

$

(3,814)

Interest expense

$

257

The following table presents the effect of the Trust’s derivative financial instruments on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and other comprehensive loss (income) for the six months ended June 30, 2023 and 2022:

Location of Gain

Amount of (Gain)/Loss

Reclassified from

Derivatives in

Recognized in Other

Accumulated other

Amount of (Gain)/Loss

Cash Flow Hedging

Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive Income

Reclassified from

Relationships

on Derivatives

(AOCI) into Income

AOCI into Income

2023

2023

Interest rate swaps

$

355

Interest expense

$

(1,682)

2022

2022

Interest rate swaps

$

(10,339)

Interest expense

$

618

Credit-risk-related Contingent Features

The Trust’s agreements with each of its derivative counterparties also contain a provision whereby if the Trust consolidates with, merges with or into, or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another entity and the creditworthiness of the resulting, surviving or transferee entity, is materially weaker than the Trust’s, the counterparty has the right to terminate the derivative obligations. As of  March 31,June 30, 2023, the termination value of derivatives in an asset position was $11,404.$13,427. As of  March 31,June 30, 2023, the Trust has pledged the properties related to the loans which are hedged as collateral.

collateral.

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

NOTE 10 - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT

The following table presents the carrying value and estimated fair value of the Company’s financial instruments:

March 31, 2023

December 31, 2022

June 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

Carrying

Carrying

Carrying

Carrying

    

Value

    

Fair Value

    

Value

    

Fair Value

    

Value

    

Fair Value

    

Value

    

Fair Value

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Financial assets:

Investment in securities

$

10,111

$

10,111

$

29,371

$

29,371

$

10,230

$

10,230

$

29,371

$

29,371

Notes receivable

$

9,789

$

11,346

$

8,448

$

9,789

$

10,154

$

11,833

$

8,448

$

9,789

Derivative assets

$

11,404

$

11,404

$

13,782

$

13,782

$

13,427

$

13,427

$

13,782

$

13,782

Financial liabilities:

Mortgage notes payable

$

531,918

$

492,925

$

508,305

$

466,245

$

520,112

$

480,614

$

508,305

$

466,245

ASC 820-10 established a three-level valuation hierarchy for fair value measurement.  Management uses these valuation techniques to establish the fair value of the assets at the measurement date.  These valuation techniques are based upon observable and unobservable inputs.  Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect management’s assumptions.

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

These two types of inputs create the following fair value hierarchy:

Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.markets;
Level 2 – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose significant inputs are observable.observable;
Level 3 – Instruments whose significant inputs are unobservable.

The guidance requires the use of observable market data, when available, in making fair value measurements. When inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the level within which the fair value measurement is categorized is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

Recurring Fair Value Measurements

The following table presents the Company’s financial instruments, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which those measurements fall. Methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of these instruments are described after the table.

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Level 3

    

Total

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Level 3

    

Total

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

March 31, 2023

June 30, 2023

Derivative assets

$

$

11,404

$

$

11,404

$

$

13,427

$

$

13,427

December 31, 2022

Derivative assets

$

$

13,782

$

$

13,782

$

$

13,782

$

$

13,782

Derivatives:  The fair value of interest rate swaps is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis on the expected future cash flows of the derivative.

21

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

The Company has determined that its derivative valuations in their entirety are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. In adjusting the fair value of its derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, the Company has considered any applicable credit enhancements.

Fair Value Disclosures

The following table presents the Company’sTrust’s financial assets and liabilities, which are measured at fair value for disclosure purposes, by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which they fall. Methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of these instruments are described after the table.

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Level 3

    

Total

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Level 3

    

Total

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

March 31, 2023

June 30, 2023

U.S. Treasury Bills

$

10,111

$

$

$

10,111

$

10,230

$

$

$

10,230

Mortgage notes payable

$

$

$

492,925

$

492,925

$

$

$

480,614

$

480,614

Notes receivable

$

$

$

11,346

$

11,346

$

$

$

11,833

$

11,833

December 31, 2022

U.S. Treasury Bills

$

29,371

$

$

$

29,371

$

29,371

$

$

$

29,371

Mortgage notes payable

$

$

$

466,245

$

466,245

$

$

$

466,245

$

466,245

Notes receivable

$

$

$

9,789

$

9,789

$

$

$

9,789

$

9,789

19

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Mortgage notes payable: The Trust estimates the fair value of its mortgage notes payable by discounting the future cash flows of each instrument at rates currently offered to the Trust for similar debt instruments of comparable maturities by the Trust’s lenders. The raterates used 5.75%rch 31, 2023range from 5.85% to 5.90% and ranged from 5.75% to 6.00% at June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022.2022, respectively.

Notes receivable: The Trust estimates the fair value of its notes receivable by discounting future cash flows of each instrument at rates currently offered to the Trust for similar note instruments of comparable maturities by the Trust’s lenders. The rate used was 7.25% at March 31,June 30, 2023 and ranged from 3.25% to 7.25% at December 31, 2022.

NOTE 11 – LEASES

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, we derived 84.8%85.0% of our revenues from residential leases that are generally for terms of one year or less. The residential leases may include lease income related items such as parking, storage and non-refundable deposits that we treat as a single lease component because the amenities cannot be leased on their own and the timing and pattern of revenue recognition are the same.  The collection of lease payments at lease commencement is probable and therefore we subsequently recognize lease income over the lease term on a straight-line basis.  Residential leases are renewable upon consent of both parties on an annual or monthly basis.

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, we derived 15.2%15.0% of our revenues from commercial leases primarily under long-term lease agreements. Substantially all commercial leases contain fixed escalations or, in some instances, changes based on the Consumer Price Index, which occur at specified times during the term of the lease. In certain commercial leases, variable lease income, such as percentage rent, is recognized when rents are earned. We recognize rental income and rental abatements from our commercial leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Recognition of rental income commences when control of the leased space has been transferred to the tenant.

22

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

We recognize variable income from pass-through expenses on an accrual basis over the periods in which the expenses were incurred. Pass-through expenses are comprised of real estate taxes, operating expenses and common area maintenance costs which are reimbursed by tenants in accordance with specific allowable costs per tenant lease agreements. When we pay pass-through expenses, subject to reimbursement by the tenant, they are included within operating expenses, excluding real estate taxes, and reimbursements are included within “real estate rental income” along with the associated base rent in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.statements.

Lease income related to the Company’s operating leases is comprised of the following:

Three months ended March 31, 2023

Three months ended June 30, 2023

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Lease income related to fixed lease payments

$

28,656

$

3,943

$

32,599

$

29,165

$

3,920

$

33,085

Lease income related to variable lease payments

1,197

1,197

899

899

Other (a)

(119)

96

(23)

(160)

86

(74)

Lease Income (b)

$

28,537

$

5,236

$

33,773

$

29,005

$

4,905

$

33,910

Three months ended June 30, 2022

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

Lease income related to fixed lease payments

$

27,436

$

4,115

$

31,551

Lease income related to variable lease payments

1,111

1,111

Other (a)

(192)

68

(124)

Lease Income (b)

$

27,244

$

5,294

$

32,538

(a)For the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, “Other” is comprised of revenue adjustments related to changes in collectability and amortization of above and below market lease intangibles and lease inducements.
(b)Excludes other rental income for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 of $1,407,$1,640 and $1,279, respectively, which is accounted for under the revenue recognition standard.

Six months ended June 30, 2023

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

Lease income related to fixed lease payments

$

57,820

$

7,864

$

65,684

Lease income related to variable lease payments

2,096

2,096

Other (a)

(279)

181

(98)

Lease Income (b)

$

57,541

$

10,141

$

67,682

Six months ended June 30, 2022

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

Lease income related to fixed lease payments

$

53,934

$

8,182

$

62,116

Lease income related to variable lease payments

2,288

2,288

Other (a)

(361)

163

(198)

Lease Income (b)

$

53,573

$

10,633

$

64,206

2023

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Three months ended March 31, 2022

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(in thousands)

Lease income related to fixed lease payments

$

26,498

$

4,067

$

30,565

Lease income related to variable lease payments

1,176

1,176

Other (c)

(169)

95

(74)

Lease Income (d)

$

26,329

$

5,338

$

31,667

(c)(a)For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, “Other” is comprised of revenue adjustments related to changes in collectability and amortization of above and below market lease intangibles and lease inducements.
(d)(b)Excludes other rental income for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 of $1,249,$3,048 and $2,528, respectively, which is accounted for under the revenue recognition standard.

As of March 31,June 30, 2023, non-cancelable commercial operating leases provide for future minimum rental income as follows. ApartmentResidential leases are not included, as the terms are generally for one year or less.

Years ending December 31,

    

Amount

    

Amount

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

2023 (April 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023)

$

11,818

2023 (July 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023)

$

7,565

2024

15,444

14,805

2025

15,020

14,379

2026

13,629

12,986

2027

12,200

11,554

Thereafter

44,335

43,364

$

112,446

$

104,653

NOTE 12 – RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Effective January 1, 2021, Trustmark Enterprises, Inc. was formed to act as the holding company for Sterling Management, LLC and GOLDMARK Property Management, Inc. In connection with this restructuring transaction, the owners of Trustmark Enterprises, Inc. indirectly own Sterling Management, LLC and GOLDMARK Property Management, Inc. Trustmark Enterprises, Inc. is owned in part by the Trust’s Chief Executive Officer and Trustee Mr. Kenneth P. Regan, by Trustee Mr. James S. Wieland, and by President and Chief Investment Officer Joel S. Thomsen, by Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Damon K. Gleave, and by General Counsel and Secretary Michael P. Carlson.Thomsen. In addition, Mr. Regan serves as the Executive Chairman Chief Executive Officer and President of the Advisor, Mr. Thomsen serves as the Chief Investment Officer of the Advisor, Mr. Gleave serves as the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Advisor, and Mr. Carlson serves as the General CounselMessrs. Wieland, and Secretary of the Advisor. Messrs. Regan, Wieland, Thomsen Gleave and Carlson serve on the Board of Governors of both the Advisor and GOLDMARK Property Management, Inc.

Sterling Management, LLC (the “Advisor”), is a North Dakota limited liability company formed in November 2002. The Advisor is responsible for managing day-to-day affairs, overseeing capital projects, and identifying, acquiring, and disposing investments on behalf of the trust.Trust.

GOLDMARK Property Management, Inc., is a North Dakota corporation formed in 1981. GOLDMARK Property Management, Inc. performs property management services for the Trust.

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

We have a historical and ongoing relationship with Bell Bank. Bell Bank has provided the Trust certain financial services throughout the relationship. Mr. Wieland, a Trustee, also serves as a Board Member of Bell Bank. Mr. Wieland could have an indirect material interest in any such engagement and related transactions.

The Trust has a historical and ongoing relationship with Trumont Group and Trumont Construction. Trumont Group provides development services for current joint venture projects in which the Operating Partnership is an investor. Trumont Construction has been engaged to construct the properties associated with these joint ventures. Mr. Regan, Chief Executive Officer and trustee,Trustee, is a partner in both Trumont Group and Trumont Construction and has a direct material interest in any engagement or related transaction, the Trust enters into, with these entities.

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Property Management FeeFees

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, we paid fees to GOLDMARK Property Management, Inc. related to the management of properties, on-site staff costs and other miscellaneous fees required to run the property of $12,836$5,917, and $3,429,$6,879, respectively. Management fees paid during the yearsix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 approximated 5% of net collected rents.rent. In addition, during the yearsix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, we paid repair and maintenance expenses, and payroll related expenses to GOLDMARK Property Management, Inc. totaling $2,261$4,916 and $1,799,$3,523, respectively.

Advisory Agreement

We are an externally managed trust and as such, although we have a Board of Trustees and Executive Officers responsible for our management, we have no paid employees. The following is a brief description of the current fees and compensation that may be and was received by the Advisor under the Advisory Agreement, which must be renewed on an annual basis and approved by a majority of the independent trustees. The Advisory Agreement was approved by the Board of Trustees (including all the independent Trustees) on March 23, 2023, and is effective until March 31, 2024.

The below table summarizes the fees incurred to our Advisor.

Three Months ended March 31,

Six Months ended June 30,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Fee:

Advisory

$

955

$

898

$

1,901

$

1,807

Acquisition

$

-

$

358

$

-

$

876

Disposition

$

-

$

66

$

204

$

226

Financing

$

44

$

32

$

68

$

47

Project Management

$

195

$

206

$

249

$

253

The below table summarizes the fees payable to our Advisor.

Payable at

June 30,

December 31,

2023

2022

(in thousands)

Fee:

Advisory

$

316

$

632

Acquisition

$

-

$

387

Disposition

$

-

$

72

Financing

$

11

$

-

Project Management

$

-

$

12

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

The below table summarizes the fees payable to our Advisor.

Payable at

March 31,

December 31,

2023

2022

(in thousands)

Fee:

Advisory

$

336

$

632

Acquisition

$

-

$

387

Disposition

$

-

$

72

Financing

$

7

$

-

Project Management

$

12

$

12

Operating Partnership Units Issued in Connection with Acquisitions

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, there were no Operating Partnership units issued.

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, 443,000 Operating PartnershipPartnerships units were issued to an entity affiliated with Messrs. Regan and Wieland, two of our trustees, in connection with the acquisition of various properties. The aggregate value of these units was $10,180.

Commissions

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, there were no real estate commissions paid to GOLDMARK Commercial Real Estate. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, we incurred real estate commissions of $244$278 to GOLDMARK Commercial Real Estate, Inc., in which Messrs. Regan and Wieland jointly own a controlling interest. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, andthere were no commissions payable to Goldmark Commercial Real Estate. As of December 31, 2022, there were no unpaid commissions of $183 payable to GOLDMARK Commercial Real Estate.

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, there were no commission paid to GOLDMARK Property Management. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, we incurred real estate commissions of $163,$260, to GOLDMARK Property Management. As of March 31,June 30, 2023, and December 31, 2022, there were no unpaid commissions to GOLDMARK Commercial Real Estate. As of December 31, 2022, there were commissions of $92 payable to GOLDMARK Property Management.

Rental Income

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, we received rental income of $67$135 and $66,$132, respectively, under an operating lease agreement with GOLDMARK Property Management, Inc.

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, we received rental income of $33$66 and $32,$64, respectively, under an operating lease agreementsagreement with our Advisor.

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, we received rental income of $225$465 and $209,$422, respectively, under an operating lease agreementagreements with Bell Bank.

Other operational activitycosts

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, the Trust incurred $33$91 and $206,$111, respectively, for general costs related to business operations as well as capital expenditures related to construction in progress that were paid to related parties. At March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, there were no operational outstanding liabilities were $32liabilities.

Debt Financing

At June 30, 2023 and $168,December 31, 2022, the Trust had $61,399 and $64,123, respectively, of outstanding principal on loans entered into with Bell Bank. During the six months ended June 30, 2023 and 2022, the Trust incurred interest expense on debt held with Bell Bank of $1,208 and $1,238, respectively. Accrued interest as of June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022 related to this debt was $118 and $130, respectively.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Debt Financing

At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Trust had $63,543 and $64,123, respectively, of outstanding principal on loans entered into with Bell Bank. During the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, the Trust incurred interest expense on debt held with Bell Bank of $620 and $618, respectively. Accrued interest as of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, related to this debt was $141 and $130, respectively.

At March 31, 2023, the Trust did not have an outstanding principal on a note payable entered into with Bell Bank. At December 31, 2022, the Trust had $26,500 of outstanding principal on a note payable entered into with Bell Bank. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Trust incurred interest expense on a note payable held with Bell Bank of $72. During the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Trust did not incur interest expense on a note payable held with Bell Bank.  

Mezzanine Financing

The trustTrust offers mezzanine financing to joint ventures, see note 5 for investment in unconsolidated affiliates. At March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, Sterling issued $9,338$9,998 and $5,854 respectively, in second mortgage financing to related entries.

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, the trustTrust earned interest income of $147$288 and $140$171 respectively, related to the second mortgage financing.

Insurance Services

The trustTrust retains insurance services from Bell Insurance. Policies provided by these services provide insurance coverage for the Trust’s Commercial segmentand Residential Segment as well as Director and Officer general and liability coverage. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, total premiums incurred for this policy were $84.$131. No premiums were incurred during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022.

Development Arrangements

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 no development fees were paid. During the three months ended March 31,and 2022, the trustTrust incurred $153$- and $409, respectively, in development fees to Trumont Group. At March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Trust had no costs owed for development fees to Trumont Group.

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, the Trust incurred $113$276 and $96$429, respectively, in construction fees to Trumont Construction. At March 31,June 30, 2023 no construction fees costs were owed. Atand December 31, 2022, the Trust owed $- and $71, respectively for construction fees to Trumont Construction.

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, the Trust incurred $95$186 and $118$204, respectively, in general construction costs to Trumont Construction. At March 31,June 30, 2023 no general construction costs were owed. Atand December 31, 2022, the Trust owed $- and $81, respectively, for general construction costs to Trumont Construction.costs.

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

NOTE 13 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Environmental Matters

Federal law (and the laws of some states in which we own or may acquire properties) imposes liability on a landowner for the presence on the premises of hazardous substances or wastes (as defined by present and future federal and state laws and regulations). This liability is without regard to fault or knowledge of the presence of such substances and may be imposed jointly and severally upon all succeeding landowners. If such hazardous substance is discovered on a property acquired by us, we could incur liability for the removal of the substances and the cleanup of the property.

There can be no assurance that we would have effective remedies against prior owners of the property. In addition, we may be liable to tenants and may find it difficult or impossible to sell the property either prior to or following such a cleanup.

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Risk of Uninsured Property Losses

We maintain property damage, fire loss, and liability insurance.  However, there are certain types of losses (generally of a catastrophic nature) which may be either uninsurable or not economically insurable. Such excluded risks may include war, earthquakes, tornadoes,tornados, certain environmental hazards, and floods. Should such events occur, (i) we might suffer a loss of capital invested, (ii) tenants may suffer losses and may be unable to pay rent for the spaces, and (iii) we may suffer a loss of profits which might be anticipated from one or more properties.

Litigation

The Trust is subject, from time to time, to various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. While the resolution of such matters cannot be predicted with certainty, management believes, based on currently available information, that the final outcome of such matters will not have a material effect on the financial statements of the Trust.

NOTE 14 – DISPOSITIONS

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, the Trust did not dispose of any properties. During the three months ended March 31, 2022 the TrustOperating Partnership disposed of onetwo properties. One property located in Savage,Coon Rapids, Minnesota was disposed of for $2,700$3,448 with a recognized gain of $1,531. The other property was located in White Bear Lake, Minnesota was disposed of for $4,710 with a recognized gain of $1,066. During the six months ended June 30, 2022 the Operating Partnership disposed of two properties for a total of $9,100 and recognized a gain of $1,328.

$3,340.

NOTE 15 – ACQUISITIONS

The Trust had no acquisitions during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023.

The Trust had one acquisitionfive acquisitions during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022.

Date

Property Name

Location

Property Type

Units/ Square Footage/ Acres

Purchase Price

Property Name

Location

Property Type

Units/ Square Footage/ Acres

Purchase Price

2/28/22

Deer Park

Hutchinson, MN

Apartment Complex

138 units

$

15,073

Deer Park

Hutchinson, MN

Apartment Complex

138 units

$

15,073

5/31/22

Desoto Estates

Grand Forks, ND

Apartment Complex

68 units

5,863

5/31/22

Desoto Townhomes

Grand Forks, ND

Townhomes

24 units

3,226

5/31/22

Desoto Apartments

East Grand Forks, MN

Apartment Complex

24 units

1,230

6/10/22

Diamond Bend

Mandan, ND

Apartment Complex

78 units

10,919

$

15,073

$

36,311

Total consideration given for acquisitions through June 30, 2022 was completed through issuing approximately 443,000 limited partnership units of the Operating Partnership valued at $23.00 per unit for an aggregate consideration of approximately $10,180. The value of units issued in exchange for property is determined through a value established annually by our Board of Trustees and reflects the fair value at the time of issuance.

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STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31,JUNE 30, 2023 and 2022 (UNAUDITED)

(Dollar amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Total consideration given for acquisitions through March 31, 2022 was completed through issuing approximately 443,000 limited partnership units of the Operating Partnership valued at $23 per unit for an aggregate consideration of approximately $10,180, and cash of $4,893. The value of units issued in exchange for property is determined through a value established annually by our Board of Trustees and reflects the fair value at the time of issuance. The following table summarizes the acquisition date fair values, before pro-rations, the Company recorded in conjunction with the acquisition discussed above:

Six months ended

June 30,

2023

2022

Real estate investment acquired

$

-

$

35,953

Acquired lease intangible assets

-

619

Assumed Assets

-

3

Total Assets Acquired

$

-

$

36,575

Other liabilities

-

(264)

Net assets acquired

-

36,311

Equity/limited partnership unit consideration

-

(10,180)

Net cash consideration

$

-

$

26,131

Year Ended

March 31,

2023

2022

Real estate investment acquired

$

-

$

14,831

Acquired lease intangible assets

-

260

Assumed Assets

-

2

Total Assets Acquired

$

-

$

15,093

Other liabilities

-

(20)

Net assets acquired

-

15,073

Equity/limited partnership unit consideration

-

(10,180)

Net cash consideration

$

-

$

4,893

NOTE 16 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On April 3,July 7, 2023, the Trust paid offobtained financing on a retail mortgage totaling $496. Theresidential property is unencumbered as of April 3, 2023.for $6,000.

On AprilJuly 17, 2023, we paid a dividend or distribution of $0.2875 per share on our common shares of beneficial interest or limited partnership units, respectively, to common shareholders and limited partnership unit holders of record on March 31,June 30, 2023.

On May 5, 2023, the Trust paid off a residential mortgage totaling $3,185.

On May 5, 2023, the Trust obtained financing on a residential property for $5,000.

Pending acquisitions and dispositions are subject to numerous conditions and contingencies and there are no assurances that the transactions will be completed.

We have evaluated subsequent events through the date of this filing. We are not aware of any other subsequent events which would require recognition or disclosure in the consolidated financial statements.

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All dollar amounts in this Form 10-Q in Part I ItemsItem 2. through 4.Item 4 and Part II ItemsItem 2. are stated in thousands with the exception of share and per share amounts, unless otherwise indicated.

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

Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

Certain statements contained in this section and elsewhere in this Form 10-Q constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Such forward-looking statements involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.  Please see “Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” for more information. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made and are not guarantees of future performance.

Overview

Sterling Real Estate Trust d/b/a Sterling Multifamily Trust (“Sterling,”Sterling”, “the “Trust”Trust” or the “Company”“the Company”) is a registered, but unincorporated business trust organized in North Dakota in December 2002.  Sterling has elected to be taxed as a Real Estate Investment Trust (“REIT”) under Sections 856-860 of the Internal Revenue Code, which requires that 75% of the assets of a REIT must consist of real estate assets and that 75% of its gross income must be derived from real estate. The net income of the REIT is allocated in accordance with the stock ownership in the same fashion as a regular corporation.  Our real estate portfolio consisted of 185183 properties containing 11,300 apartment units and approximately 1,498,0001,467,000 square feet of leasable commercial space as of March 31,June 30, 2023. The portfolio has a net book value of real estate investments (cost less accumulated depreciation) of approximately $772,682,$765,830, which includes construction in progress. Sterling’s current acquisition strategy and focus is on multifamily apartment properties.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Below are accounting policies and estimates that management believes are critical to the preparation of the unaudited consolidated financial statements included in this Report. Certain accounting policies used in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are particularly important for an understanding of the financial position and results of operations presented in the historical consolidated financial statements included in this Report. A summary of significant accounting policies is also provided in the aforementioned notes to our consolidated financial statements (see noteNote 2 to the unaudited consolidated financial statements). These policies require the application of judgment and assumptions by management and, as a result, are subject to a degree of uncertainty. Due to this uncertainty, actual results could differ materially from estimates calculated and utilized by management.

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Impairment of Real Estate Investments

The Trust will review each property within its portfolio, every quarter for potential impairment through various screening mechanisms (identifiers) to determine if there are indicators of impairment on a property. If so, the property is further analyzed through an undiscounted cash flow test. An identifier is not an indicator or triggering event for impairment; however, it is a mechanism to highlight an item on a property, which warrants further consideration and analysis to determine if an indicator is present. The following are examples of activities that are reviewreviewed quarterly:

An individual property’s weighted average cost of capital is not meeting its required rate as calculated by management.
Significant decline in Operational NOI in relation to individual residential properties.
Significant decline in NOI in relation to individual commercial properties.
Significant quarter over quarter decrease in occupancy.

If the presence of one or more impairment identifieridentifiers is noted through a screening mechanism at the end of the reporting period or throughout the year with respect to an investment property, the asset is further analyzed to determine if an indicator of impairment exists. If further analysis does not explain the propertiesproperty’s performance, the Trust considers this to

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provide evidence that an indicator of impairment does exist, the property is then subject to additional impairment analysis, and an undiscounted cash flow analysis is performed on the individual property. Indicators of impairment include:

Sustained reduction in cash flows/NOI that was not due to a planned action taken by the Company to improve long term operations and where discussion and review with the Portfolio management team cannot support a significant decline or insufficient NOI Coverage.

Additionally, Sterling considers certain occurrences at a property to be a triggering event, causing an analysis of impairment to occur, and an undiscounted cash flow analysis is performed. Triggering Eventsevents of impairment include:

Continued difficulty in leasing property or renewing existing leases. Factors considered include:
Competitors building significantly newernew properties.
Competitors are relocating out of the area.
Tenant downsizing and needing less square footage.
Significant decrease in market prices not in line with general market trends.
Property make-up of units is not in line with market trends.
Demographics of property.
A significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which a long-lived asset (asset group) is being used or in its physical condition.
A significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of a long-lived asset (asset group), including an adverse action or assessment by a regulator.
A current expectation that, “more likely than not,”not” a long-lived asset (asset group) will be sold or otherwise disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. The term more likely than not refers to a level of likelihood that is more than 50 percent. As such, any property approved by the Board of Trustees to be sold, will be evaluated for impairment.

To the extent impairment has occurred, the Trust will record an impairment charge calculated as the excess of the carrying value of the asset over its fair value for impairment of investment properties.value. Based on evaluation, there were no impairment losses during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022.

There have been no material changes in our Critical Accounting Policies as disclosed in Note 2 to our financial statements for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 included elsewhere in this report.

Acquisition of Real Estate Investments

The Company allocates the purchase price of properties that meet the definition of an asset acquisition to net tangible and identified intangible assets acquired based on their relative fair values. In making estimates of relative fair values for

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purposes of allocating purchase price, the Company utilizes a number of sources, includingincluded independent appraisals that may be obtained in connection with the acquisition or financing of the respective property, our own analysis of recently acquired and existing comparable properties in our portfolio and other market data. The Company also considersconsidered information obtained about each property as a result of its pre-acquisition due diligence, marketing, and leasing activities in estimating the relative fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired.

REIT Status

We operate in a manner intended to enable us to continue to qualify as a REIT under Sections 856-860 of the Internal Revenue Code. Under those sections, a REIT which distributes atas least 90% of its REIT taxable income, excluding net capital gains, as a distribution to its shareholders each year and which meets certain other conditions will not be taxed on that portion of its taxable income which is distributed to its shareholders. We intend to distribute to our shareholders 100% of our taxable income. Therefore, no provision for Federal income taxes is required. If we fail to distribute the required amount of income to our shareholders, we would fail to qualify as a REIT and substantial adverse tax consequences may result.

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Table of Contents

Principal Business Activity

Sterling currently owns directly owns 185and indirectly 183 properties. The Trust’s 143 residential properties are located in North Dakota, Minnesota, Missouri Nebraska, and TexasNebraska and are principally multifamily apartment buildings.  The Trust owns 4240 commercial properties primarily located in North Dakota with others located in Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska and Wisconsin. The commercial properties include retail, office, industrial, restaurant and medical properties.  ThePresently, the Trust’s mix of properties is 78.8% residential and 21.2% commercial (based on cost) with a total carrying value of $772,682$765,830 at March 31,June 30, 2023. Currently our  focus is limited to multifamily apartment properties. We will consider unsolicited offers for purchase of commercial properties on a case-by-case basis.

The following table represents the number of properties the Trust owns in each state as of March 31, 2023

Residential Property

    

Location

    

No. of Properties

    

Units

North Dakota

122

7,187

Minnesota

15

3,040

Missouri

1

164

Nebraska

4

639

Texas

1

270

143

11,300

Commercial Property

    

Location

    

No. of Properties

    

Sq. Ft

North Dakota

20

772,000

Arkansas

2

28,000

Colorado

1

17,000

Iowa

1

33,000

Louisiana

1

15,000

Michigan

1

12,000

Minnesota

7

493,000

Mississippi

1

15,000

Nebraska

1

19,000

Wisconsin

5

63,000

40

1,467,000

Residential Property

    

Location

    

No. of Properties

    

Units

North Dakota

122

7,187

Minnesota

15

3,040

Missouri

1

164

Nebraska

4

639

Texas

1

270

143

11,300

Commercial Property

    

Location

    

No. of Properties

    

Sq. Ft

North Dakota

20

772,000

Arkansas

2

28,000

Colorado

1

17,000

Iowa

1

33,000

Louisiana

1

15,000

Michigan

1

12,000

Minnesota

9

524,000

Mississippi

1

15,000

Nebraska

1

19,000

Wisconsin

5

63,000

42

1,498,000

Results of Operations

Management Highlights

Increased revenues from rental operations by $2,264$1,733 or 6.9%5.1% for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, compared to the same three month-periodmonth period in 2022.
Increased revenues from rental operations by $3,996 or 6.0% for the six months ended June 30, 2023, compared to same six month period in 2022.

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Disposed of two commercial properties during the six months ended June 30, 2023.
Declared and paid dividends aggregating $0.2875$0.5750 per common share for the threesix months ending March 31,ended June 30, 2023.

33

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Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2023 and 2022

    

Three months ended June 30, 2023

    

Three months ended June 30, 2022

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(unaudited)

(unaudited)

    

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Real Estate Revenues

       

$

30,574

  

$

4,976

  

$

35,550

  

$

28,502

  

$

5,315

$

33,817

Real Estate Expenses

Real Estate Taxes

3,267

537

3,804

2,964

674

3,638

Property Management

3,922

218

4,140

3,506

154

3,660

Utilities

2,604

272

2,876

2,565

258

2,823

Repairs and Maintenance

7,655

374

8,029

5,314

435

5,749

Insurance

1,282

25

1,307

897

28

925

Total Real Estate Expenses

18,730

1,426

20,156

15,246

1,549

16,795

Net Operating Income

$

11,844

$

3,550

15,394

$

13,256

$

3,766

17,022

Interest

5,331

4,954

Depreciation and amortization

6,484

5,963

Administration of REIT

1,140

1,400

Other income

(2,291)

(2,402)

Net Income

$

4,730

$

7,107

Net Income Attributed to:

Noncontrolling Interest

$

(1,410)

$

4,539

Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

6,140

$

2,568

Dividends per share (1)

$

0.2875

$

0.2875

Earnings per share

$

0.56

$

0.24

Weighted average number of common shares

11,039

10,564

(1)Does not take into consideration the amounts distributed by the Operating Partnership to limited partners.

Revenues

Property revenues of $35,550 for the three months ended June 30, 2023 increased $1,733 or 5.1% in comparison to the same period in 2022. Residential property revenues increased $2,072 and commercial property revenues decreased $339.

The following table illustrates occupancy percentages for the three month periods indicated:

    

June 30,

June 30,

    

2023

2022

Residential occupancy

90.1

%

94.2

%

Commercial occupancy

89.4

%

81.6

%

Residential revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2023 increased $2,072 or 7.3% in comparison to the same period for 2022. Residential properties acquired since January 1, 2022 contributed approximately $1,676 to the increase in total residential revenues in the three months ended June 30, 2023. An increase of $280 is related to a revenue sharing contract. The remaining increase is due to increased rent charges at our stabilized properties. Residential revenues comprised 86.0% of total revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2023 compared to 84.3% of total revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2022.

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Table of Contents

For the three months ended June 30, 2023, total commercial revenues decreased $339 or 6.4% in comparison to the same period for 2022. The decrease is attributed to the disposition of two commercial properties. These properties account for $76 of decreased commercial rent during the three months ended June 30, 2023. The remainder can be attributed to a decrease of $208 for common area maintenance income in the Minneapolis market. Commercial revenues comprised 14.0% of the total revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2023, compared to 15.7% of total revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2022. Due to the sale of commercial properties, it is anticipated that the decline in commercial revenues as a percentage of total revenues will continue.

Expenses

Residential expenses from operations of $18,730 during the three months ended June 30, 2023 increased $3,484 or 22.9% in comparison to the same period in 2022. The increase is primarily attributed to a $2,342 or 44.1% increase in repairs and maintenance due to previous deferred projects and repairs being completed in 2023. Property management increased $416, or 11.9% and real estate taxes increased $303, or 10.2%. Properties acquired after January 1, 2022, account for $212 and $233, respectively during the three months ended June 30, 2023.

Commercial expenses from operations of $1,426 during the three months ended June 30, 2023 decreased $123 or 7.9% in comparison to the same period in 2022. The decrease is primarily attributed to decreased real estate taxes of $137 or 20.3% and repairs and maintenance for $61 or 14.0%.

Interest expense of $5,331 during the three months ended June 30, 2023 increased $377 or 7.6% in comparison to the same period in 2022. Interest expense related to financing activities increased by $350 during the three months ended June 30, 2023 as compared to the same period in 2022. The primary reason for increased interest expense on debt is due to increased mortgage balance on the portfolio as a whole. During the three months ended June 30, 2023 interest expense was 15.0% of total revenues.

Depreciation and amortization expense of $6,484 during the three months ended June 30, 2023 increased $521 or 8.7% in comparison to the same period in 2022. Properties acquired since January 1, 2022 contributed approximately $513 to the increase in depreciation expense during the three months ended June 30, 2023. Amortization expense will continue to decrease as lease intangibles become fully amortized but will increase upon acquisitions of intangible assets. Depreciation and amortization expense as a percentage of rental income for the three months ended June 30, 2023 and 2022 was 18.2% and 17.6%, respectively.

REIT administration expenses of $1,140 during the three months ended June 30, 2023 decreased $260 or 18.6% in comparison to the same period in 2022, due to a one-time development fee of $300 in 2022.

Other income of $2,291 during the three months ended June 30, 2023 decreased $111 or 4.6% in comparison to the same period in 2022. This is due to a decrease in equity income of affiliates of $452 and a decrease in gain from involuntary conversions of $432. This is offset by an increase in realized gain on sale for $585 and interest income of $198.

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Table of Contents

Results of Operations for the ThreeSix Months Ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022

Three months ended March 31, 2023

    

Three months ended March 31, 2022

Six months ended June 30, 2023

    

Six months ended June 30, 2022

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

    

Residential

    

Commercial

    

Total

(unaudited)

(unaudited)

(unaudited)

(unaudited)

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Real Estate Revenues

    

$

29,920

    

$

5,260

    

$

35,180

    

$

27,494

    

$

5,422

    

$

32,916

    

$

60,494

    

$

10,236

    

$

70,730

    

$

55,997

    

$

10,737

    

$

66,734

Real Estate Expenses

Real Estate Taxes

3,239

560

3,799

2,846

651

3,497

6,507

1,097

7,604

5,810

1,325

7,135

Property Management

3,875

205

4,080

3,443

203

3,646

7,797

423

8,220

6,947

357

7,304

Utilities

3,886

326

4,212

3,409

360

3,769

6,490

598

7,088

5,974

618

6,592

Repairs and Maintenance

8,161

604

8,765

5,974

433

6,407

15,816

977

16,793

11,288

869

12,157

Insurance

1,042

23

1,065

836

31

867

2,324

48

2,372

1,734

59

1,793

Total Real Estate Expenses

20,203

1,718

21,921

16,508

1,678

18,186

38,934

3,143

42,077

31,753

3,228

34,981

Net Operating Income

$

9,717

$

3,542

13,259

$

10,986

$

3,744

14,730

$

21,560

$

7,093

28,653

$

24,244

$

7,509

31,753

Interest

5,355

4,845

10,687

9,800

Depreciation and amortization

6,552

5,782

13,036

11,745

Administration of REIT

1,311

1,217

2,451

2,617

Other income

729

(503)

(1,562)

(2,905)

Net (loss) Income

$

(688)

$

3,389

$

4,041

$

10,496

Net (Loss) Income Attributed to:

Noncontrolling Interest

$

(448)

$

2,175

$

(1,858)

$

6,714

Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

(240)

$

1,214

$

5,899

$

3,782

Dividends per share (1)

$

0.2875

$

0.2875

$

0.5750

$

0.5750

Earnings per share

$

(0.0200)

$

0.1200

$

0.5400

$

0.3600

Weighted average number of common shares

10,952

10,465

10,996

10,515

(1)Does not take into consideration the amounts distributed by the Operating Partnership to limited partners.

Revenues

Property revenues of $35,180$70,730 for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 increased $2,264$3,996 or 6.9%6.0% in comparison to the same period in 2022. Residential property revenues increased $2,426$4,497 and commercial property revenues decreased $162.$501, from the prior year’s comparable six month period.

The following table illustrates changes in occupancy percentages for the three-monthsix month periods indicated:

    

March 31,

March 31,

June 30,

June 30,

    

2023

2022

    

2023

2022

Residential occupancy

90.4

%

94.1

%

90.2

%

94.1

%

Commercial occupancy

88.4

%

74.8

%

89.4

%

81.6

%

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Table of Contents

Residential revenues for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 increased $2,426$4,497 or 8.8%8.0% in comparison to the same period for 2022. Residential properties acquired since January 1, 2022 contributed approximately $1,902$4,176 to the increase in total

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Table of Contents

residential revenues forin the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023. The remaining increase is due to increased rent charges at our stabilized properties. Residential revenues comprised 85.0%85.5% of total revenues for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 compared to 83.5%83.9% of total revenues for the threesix months ended March 31, 2022. The residential occupancy rates for the three months ended March 31, 2023 decreased 3.7% primarily due to increased vacancy.June 30, 2022

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, total commercial revenues decreased $162$501 or 3.0%4.7% in comparison to the same period for 2022. The decrease was primarilyis attributed to the dispositionsale of onetwo commercial real estate investmentbuildings resulting in 2022. This property accountsa $45 decrease in revenue. The decrease is also attributed to the common area maintenance income for $33$237 for a commercial building located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Commercial revenues comprised 14.5% of decreased commercial rent during the threetotal revenues for the six months ended March 31, 2023. Increased vacancy in the Minneapolis market accounts for $35June 30, 2023 compared to 16.1% of decreased commercial revenue, along with a decrease in total miscellaneous income for $59. This is attributed to an early term fee in the Minneapolis Market in 2022. The commercial occupancy ratesrevenues for the threesix months ended March 31, 2023 decreased 17.1% primarily due to office spaces located in the Minnesota market.June 30, 2022.

Expenses

Residential expenses from operations of $20,203$38,934 during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 increased $3,695$7,181 or 22.4%22.6% in comparison to the same period in 2022. The increase is primarily attributed to an increase inincreased repairs and maintenance expense of $2,1874,528 or 36.6%.40.1% due to deferred projects and repairs being completed in 2023. Further increase is attributed to an increase of $850 or 12.2% for property management fees and $697 or 12.0% for real estate taxes. Properties acquired since January 1, 2022 attributed $287contributed $487 and $491 to the increase in repairs and maintenance expense. Additionally, increased project and upgrade costs, which are considered to be deferred maintenance costs from the year ended 2020 and 2021, due to COVID-19 restrictions attribute to the increase in repairs and maintenance expense during the three months ended March 31, 2023. The increase is also attributed to an increase in utility expense of $477 or 14.0% as well as an increase in property management expense of $430 or 12.5%. The main reason for the increases in utilityfees and property management expenses is related to the properties acquired since January 1, 2022, which account for $204 and $275 of the increase,real estate taxes, respectively.

Commercial expenses from operations of $1,718$3,143 during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 increased $40decreased $85 or 2.4%2.6% in comparison to the same period in 2022. The increase in overall expensesThis is attributed to the decrease in repairs and maintenance expenses during the three months ended March 31,needed in 2023 Repairs and maintenance increased by $171 in comparisoncompared to the same period in 2022, This attributes to high costs in HVAC repairs and higher snow removal costs. These costs are offset by a decrease in utilities and property tax for $125 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 in comparison to the same period in 2022.

Interest expense of $5,355$10,687 during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 increased $510$887 or 10.5%9.1% in comparison to the same period in 2022. Interest expensesexpense related to financing activities increased by $405$754 during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 as compared to the same period in 2022. The primary reason for the increase in interest expense related to debt is due to the increase of mortgage principle of the Trust’s debt portfolio. Interest expense for notes payable increased $72 during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 due to the payoff of the Bell Bank promissory note acquired at the end of 2022. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, interest expense was 15.2%15.1% of total revenues.

Depreciation and amortization expense of $6,552 during$13,036 for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 increased $770$1,291 or 13.3%.11.0% in comparison to the same period in 2022. Properties acquired since January 1, 2022, contributed approximately $598$1,111 to the increase in depreciation expense. Amortization expense will continue to decrease as lease intangibles become fully amortized but will increase upon acquisitions of intangible assets. Depreciation and amortization expense as a percentage of rental income for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022 was 18.6%relatively consistent at 18.4% and 17.6%, respectively.

REIT administration expenses of $1,311 during$2,451 for the threesix months ended March 31, 2023 increased $94 or 7.7% compared to the same period in 2022. The increase is attributable to an increase in the amount of audit fees and the REIT advisory fee.

Other (loss) income of $(728) for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 decreased $1,232$116 or 245.0%6.4% in comparison to the same period in 2022. The decrease is attributeddue to realized gains ona one-time development fee of $300 in 2022. This is slightly offset by the saleincrease of real estate investments of $1,329 inREIT advisory fees paid during the year 2023 as compared to 2022.

31Other income of $1,562 for the six months ended June 30, 2023, decreased $1,343 or 46.2% in comparison to the same period in 2022. This is primary due to the decrease of $743 related to realized gain on sale. A decrease of $457 related to involuntary conversions during the year 2023 as compared to 2022.

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Construction in Progress and Development Projects

The Trust capitalizes direct and certain indirect project costs incurred during the development period such as construction, insurance, architectural, legal, interest and other financing costs, and real estate taxes.  At such time as the development is considered substantially complete, the capitalization of certain indirect costs such as real estate taxes, and interest, and financing costs cease, and all project-related costs included in construction in process are reclassified to land and building and other improvements.

Construction in progress as of March 31,June 30, 2023, consists primarily of construction at several residential properties located in North Dakota and Minnesota. The Prairiewood Meadows constructionGranger Court located in Fargo, North Dakota consists of the re-development of one building due to a fire occurring in 2022. The current budget for this property is $1,564 of which $843 has been incurred. Prairiewood Meadows located in

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Table of Contents

Fargo, North Dakota is creating a new club house for residents. The clubhouse will remain in construction phase throughout 2023. The current budget for residents, and parking lot repairs. The re-developmentthis property is $732 of one building due towhich $688 has been incurred in construction in progress. Georgetown-on-the-River, located in Minneapolis, had a fire was completedoccur in early January 2022 that caused significant damage to the property. Repairs to the damaged units, that are being tracked in construction-in-progress, now totals $1,520 with expected completion in the firstthird quarter of 2023 and current expectations for the clubhouse andpending final inspections. Rosedale Estates, located in Roseville, MN is creating a parking lot will be completedstructure in the second quarter of 2023. The current budget is approximately $1,200 of which $704 has been incurred$5,246 and is included in construction in progress. The Rosedale Estates project is primarily related to a new parking structure. Current expectations are the project will be completed in the first quarterbeginning stages of 2024, and the current budget is approximately $5,189 of which $256 has been incurred and is included in construction in progress.engineering. Remaining construction in progress projects are primarily related to buildingparking lot replacements, roof upgrades, and roof system, roof replacements on multiple residential properties, residential exterior window systems, and new deck systemsvarious property upgrades on multiple residential properties.

The Trust has two on-going developments through ventures in unconsolidated affiliates.

Park Hill Apartments, currently being developed in Dallas, Texas, is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2023 and the current project budget approximates $53,138 of which $42,755$44,817 has been incurred as of March 31,June 30, 2023.

Kessler Apartments, currently being developed in Fort Worth, Texas, is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2024 and the current project budgetbudgets approximates $55,000 of which $18,357$26,845 has been incurred as March 31,of June 30, 2023.

Funds From Operations (FFO)

Funds From Operations (FFO) applicable to common shares and limited partnership units means net income (computed in accordance with GAAP), excluding gains (or losses) from sales of property, plus depreciation and amortization, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. Adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures will be calculated to reflect funds from operations on the same basis.

Historical cost accounting for real estate assets implicitly assumes 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 have considered presentations of operating results for real estate companies that use historical cost accounting to be insufficient by themselves. The term Funds From Operations (FFO)FFO was created to address this problem. It was intended to be a standard supplemental measure of REIT operating performance that excluded historical cost depreciation from — or “added back” to — GAAP net income.

Our management believes this non-GAAP measure is useful to investors because it provides supplemental information that facilitates comparisons to prior periods and for the evaluation of financial results. Management uses this non-GAAP measure to evaluate our financial results, develop budgets and manage expenditures. The method used to produce non-GAAP results is not computed according to GAAP, is likely to differ from the methods used by other companies and should not be regarded as a replacement for corresponding GAAP measures. Management encourages the review of the reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure to the comparable GAAP results.

Since the introduction of the definition of FFO, the term has come to be widely used by REITs. In the view of National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (“NAREIT”), the use of the definition of FFO (combined with the primary GAAP presentations required by the Securities and Exchange Commission) has been fundamentally beneficial, improving the understanding of operating results of REITs among the investing public and making it easier to compare the results of one REIT with another.

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Table of Contents

While FFO applicable to common shares and limited partnership units are widely used by REITs as performance metrics, all REITs do not use the same definition of FFO or calculate FFO in the same way. The FFO reconciliation presented here is not necessarily comparable to FFO presented by other real estate investment trusts. FFO should also not be considered as an alternative to net income as determined in accordance with GAAP as a measure of a real estate investment trust’s performance, but rather should be considered as an additional, supplemental measure, and should be viewed in conjunction with net income as presented in the consolidated financial statements included in this report. FFO applicable to common shares and limited partnership units does not represent cash generated from operating activities in accordance with GAAP and is not necessarily indicative of sufficient cash flow to fund a real estate investment trust’s needneeds or its ability to service indebtedness or to pay dividends to shareholders.

38

Table of Contents

The following tables include calculations of FFO, and the reconciliations to net income, for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We believe these calculations are the most comparable GAAP financial measure:measure (in thousands):

Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Sterling to FFO Applicable to Common Shares and Limited Partnership Units

Three months ended June 30, 2023

Three months ended June 30, 2022

Weighted Avg

Weighted Avg

Shares and

Shares and

    

Amount

    

Units

    

Amount

    

Units

(unaudited)

(in thousands, except per share data)

Net Income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

6,140

11,039

$

2,568

10,564

Add back:

Noncontrolling Interest - Operating Partnership Units

(1,361)

18,603

4,531

18,633

Depreciation & Amortization from continuing operations

6,484

5,963

Pro rata share of unconsolidated affiliate depreciation and amortization

1,499

643

Subtract:

Gain on sales of land, depreciable real estate, investment in equity method investee, and change in control of real estate investments

(2,597)

(2,012)

Funds from operations applicable to common shares and limited partnership units (FFO)

$

10,165

29,642

$

11,693

29,197

Three months ended March 31, 2023

Three months ended March 31, 2022

Weighted Avg

Weighted Avg

Shares and

Shares and

    

Amount

    

Units

    

Amount

    

Units

(unaudited)

(in thousands, except per share data)

Net (Loss) Income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

(240)

10,952

$

1,214

10,465

Add back:

Noncontrolling Interest - Operating Partnership Units

(408)

18,696

2,145

18,495

Depreciation & Amortization from continuing operations

6,552

5,782

Pro rata share of unconsolidated affiliate depreciation and amortization

1,484

1,089

Loss on impairment of real estate investments

Subtract:

Gain on sale of depreciable real estate

(1,329)

Funds from operations applicable to common shares and limited partnership units (FFO)

$

7,388

29,648

$

8,901

28,960

Six months ended June 30, 2023

Six months ended June 30, 2022

Weighted Avg

Weighted Avg

Shares and

Shares and

    

Amount

    

Units

    

Amount

    

Units

(unaudited)

(in thousands, except per share data)

Net Income attributable to Sterling Real Estate Trust

$

5,899

10,996

$

3,782

10,515

Add back:

Noncontrolling Interest - Operating Partnership Units

(1,769)

18,649

6,676

18,565

Depreciation & Amortization from continuing operations

13,036

11,745

Pro rata share of unconsolidated affiliate depreciation and amortization

2,983

1,732

Subtract:

Gain on sale of depreciable real estate

(2,597)

(3,340)

Funds from operations applicable to common shares and limited partnership units (FFO)

$

17,552

29,645

$

20,595

29,080

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Evaluation of Liquidity

Wecontinually evaluate our liquidity and ability to fund future operations, debt obligations and any repurchase requests.  As part of our analysis, we consider among other items, the credit quality of tenants, and current lease terms and projected expiration dates.

Our principal demands for funds will be for the: (i) acquisition of real estate and real estate-related investments, (ii) payment of acquisition relatedacquisition-related expenses and operating expenses, (iii) payment of dividends/distributions, (iv) payment of principal and interest on current and any future outstanding indebtedness, (v) redemptions of our securities under our redemption plans and (vi) capital improvements, development projects, and property related expenditures. Generally, we expect to meet cash needs for the payment of operating expenses and interest on outstanding indebtedness from cash flow from operations. We expect to pay dividends/distributions and any repurchase requests to our shareholders and the unit holders of our Operating Partnership from cash flow from operations; however, we may use other sources to fund dividends/distributions and repurchases, as necessary.

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Table of Contents

At March 31,As of June 30, 2023, our unrestricted cash resources consisted of cash and cash equivalents totaling approximately $12,064.$6,181. Our unrestricted cash reserves can be used for working capital needs and other commitments. In addition, we had unencumbered properties with a gross book value of $51,888,$60,952, which could potentially be used as collateral to secure additional financing in future periods.

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Table of Contents

The Trust hasmaintains a $4,915 variable rate (floating SOFR plus 2.00%) line of credit agreement with Bremer Bank, which expires in December 2026; and a $5,000 variable rate (floating SOFR plus 2.00%) line of credit agreement with Bremer Bank, which expires December 2026. The lines of credit are secured by specific properties. At March 31,June 30, 2023, the Bremer linesline of credit secured two letterssecures one letter of credit totaling $50, leaving $9,865 available and unused under the agreements. The Trust anticipates it will hold it as a cash resource to the Trust.

The sale of our securities and issuance of limited partnership units of the Operating Partnership in exchange for property acquisitions and sale of additional common or preferred shares is also expected to be a source of long-term capital for the Trust.

During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, we did not sell any common shares in a private placements.placement. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, we issued 90,000181,000 and 56,00097,000 common shares under the dividend reinvestment plan and optional share purchases, respectively, which raised gross proceeds of $3,253.$6,200. During the threesix months ended March 31, 2022,June 30, 2023, we did not sell any common shares in private placements.  During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, we issued 79,000165,000 and 57,00092,000 common shares under the dividend reinvestment plan and as optional share purchases, respectively, which raised gross proceeds of $3,029.$5,712.

Additionally, to reduce our cash investment and liquidity needs, the Trust utilizes the UPREIT structure whereby we can acquire property in whole or in part by issuing partnership units in lieu of cash payments. No limited partnership units of the Operating Partnership were issued in relation to the acquisition of real estate investments during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, the Trust issued approximately 443,000 limited partnership units of the Operating Partnership valued at $23.00 per unit for an aggregate consideration of approximately $10,180 for the purchase of real estate investments.

The Board of Trustees, acting as general partner for the Operating Partnership, determined an estimate of fair value for the limited partnership units exchanged through the UPREIT structure. In determining this value, the Board relied upon their experience with, and knowledge about, the Trust’s real estate portfolio and debt obligations. The Board typically determines the fair value on an annual basis. The Trustees determine the fair value, in their sole discretion and use data points to guide their determination which is typically based on a consensus of opinion. Thus, the Trust does not employ any specific valuation methodology or formula. Rather, the Board looks to available data and information, which is often adjusted and weighted to comport more closely with the assets held by the Trust at the time of valuation. The principal valuation methodology utilized is the NAV calculation/direct capitalization method. The information made available to the Board is assembled by the Trust’s Advisor. In addition, the Board considers how the price chosen will affect existing share and unit values, redemption prices, dividend coverage ratios, yield percentages, dividend reinvestment factors, and future UPREIT transactions, among other considerations and information. The fair value was not determined based on, nor intended to comply with, fair value standards under US GAAP and the value may not be indicative of the price we would get for selling our assets in their current condition. At this time, no shares are held in street name accounts and the Trust is not subject to FINRA’s specific pricing requirements set out in Rule 2340 or otherwise.

As with any valuation methodology, the methodologies utilized by the Board in reaching an estimate of the value of the shares and limited partnership units are based upon a number of estimates, assumptions, judgments, or opinions that may, or may not, prove to be correct. The use of different estimates, assumptions, judgments, or opinions would likely have resulted in significantly different estimates of the value of the shares and limited partnership units. In addition, the Board’s estimate of share and limited partnership unit value is not based on the book values of our real estate, as determined by GAAP, as our book value for most real estate is based on the amortized cost of the property, subject to certain adjustments.

Cash on hand, together with cash from operations and access to the lines of credit, is expected to provide sufficient capital to meet the Company’s needs for at least the next 12 months and as appropriate, we will use cash flows from operations, net proceeds from share offerings, debt proceeds, and proceeds from the disposition of real estate investments to meet long term liquidity demands.

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Credit Quality of Tenants

We are exposed to credit risk within our tenant portfolio, which can reduce our results of operations and cash flow from operations if our tenants are unable to pay their rent. Tenants experiencing financial difficulties may become delinquent on their rent or default on their leases and, if they file for bankruptcy protection, may reject our lease in bankruptcy court, resulting in reduced cash flow. This may negatively impact net asset values and require us to incur impairment charges.  Even if a default has not occurred and a tenant is continuing to make the required lease payments, we may restructure or renew leases on less favorable terms, or the tenant’s credit profile may deteriorate, which could affect the value of the leased asset and could in turn require us to incur impairment charges.

To mitigate credit risk on commercial properties, we have historically looked to invest in assets that we believe are critically important to our tenants’ operations and have attempted to diversify our portfolio by tenant, tenant industry and geography.  We also monitor all of our property’sproperties’ performance through review of rent delinquencies as a precursor to a potential default, meetings with tenant management and review of tenants’ financial statements and compliance with financial covenants. When necessary, our asset management process includes restructuring transactions to meet the evolving needs of tenants, refinancing debt and selling properties, as well as protecting our rights when tenants default or enter into bankruptcy.

Lease Expirations and Occupancy

Our residential leases are for a term of one year or less. The Advisor, with the assistance of our property managers, actively manages our real estate portfolio and begins discussing options with tenants in advance of scheduled lease expirations. In certain cases, we may obtain lease renewals from our tenants; however, tenants may elect to move out at the end of their term. In the cases where tenants elect not to renew, we may seek replacement tenants or try to sell the property.property.

Cash Flow Analysis

Our objectives are to generate sufficient cash flow over time to provide shareholders with increasing dividends and to seek investments with potential for strong returns and capital appreciation throughout varying economic cycles. We have funded 100% of the dividends from operating cash flows. In setting a dividend rate, we focus primarily on expected returns from investments we have already made to assess the sustainability of a particular dividend rate over time.

Three months ended

Six months ended

March 31,

June 30,

    

2023

    

2022

    

2023

    

2022

(in thousands)

(in thousands)

Net cash flows provided by operating activities

$

4,474

$

7,457

$

13,557

$

15,497

Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities

$

14,644

$

(10,187)

$

17,012

$

(29,958)

Net cash flows (used in) provided by financing activities

$

(10,389)

$

3,567

$

(27,874)

$

2,702

Operating Activities

Our real estate properties generate cash flow in the form of rental revenues, which is reduced by interest payments, direct lease costs and property-level operating expenses. Property-level operating expenses consist primarily of property management fees including salaries and wages of property management personnel, utilities, cleaning, repairs, insurance, security, and building maintenance cost,costs, and real estate taxes. Additionally, we incur general and administrative expenses, advisory fees, acquisition and disposition expenses, and financing fees.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $4,474$13,557 and $7,457$15,497 for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which consists primarily of net income from property operations adjusted for non-cash depreciation and amortization.

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Investing Activities

Our investing activities generally consist of real estate-related transactions (purchases and sales of properties) and payments of capitalized property-related costs such as intangible assets and reserve escrows.

Net cash provided byin investing activities was $14,644 and$17,012 for the six months ended June 30, 2023. Net cash used in investing activities was $10,187$29,958 for the threesix months ended March 31, 2023 andJune 30, 2022, respectively (this does not include the value of UPREIT units issued in connection with investing activities). For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, cash flows used in investing activities related specifically to the acquisition of properties and capital expenditures was $1,782$4,741 and $7,295,$31,554, respectively. Cash outlays related to investments in unconsolidated affiliates was $2,261were $2,546 and $6,444$7,749 during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, and 2022, respectively. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, there were proceeds from the maturity of securities for $19,369. There were no proceeds from the maturity of securities for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, there were no proceeds from the sale of real estate investments. Proceeds from sale of real estate investments during the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, was $2,622.were $5,082, and $6,266, respectively.

Financing Activities

Our financing activities generally consist of funding property purchases by raising proceeds and securing mortgage notes payable as well as paying dividends, paying syndication costs and making principal payments on mortgage notes payable.

Net cash used in financing activities was $10,389 and provided by financing activities was $3,567a loss of $27,874 and $2,702 for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, we paid $6,531$13,055 in dividends and distributions, redeemed $1,096$3,958 of shares and units, received proceeds of $30,250$35,250 from new mortgage notes payable, and made mortgage principal payments of $6,637.$20,628. Net cash provided by financing activities was $2,702 for the six months ended June 30, 2022. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, we paid $5,851$12,340 in dividends and distributions, redeemed $736$1,260 of shares and units, received proceeds of $12,867$23,305 from new mortgage notes payable, and made mortgage principal payments of $3,931.$8,921.

Dividends and Distributions

Common Stock

We declared cash dividends to our shareholders during the period from January 1, 2023 to March 31,June 30, 2023 totaling $3,147$6,320 or $0.2875$0.5750 per share, of which $1,151$2,434 were cash dividends and $1,996$3,886 were reinvested underthrough the dividend reinvestment plan. The cash dividends were paid fromwith the $4,474$13,557 from our cash flows from operations.

We declared cash dividends to our shareholders during the period from January 1, 2022 to March 31,June 30, 2022 totaling $3,007$6,044 or $0.2875$0.5750 per share, of which $1,130$2,256 were cash dividends and $1,877$3,787 were reinvested underthrough the dividend reinvestment plan. The cash dividends were paid fromwith the $7,457$15,497 from our cash flows from operations.

We continue to provide cash dividends to our shareholders from cash generated by our operations. The following chart summarizes the sources of our cash used to pay dividends.  Our primary source of cash is cash flow provided by operating activities from our investments as presented in our cash flow statement.  We also include distributions from unconsolidated affiliates to the extent that the underlying real estate operations in these entities generate cash flow and the gain on sale of properties relates to net profits from the sale of certain properties. Our presentation is not intended to be an alternative to our consolidated statement of cash flows and does not present all sources and uses of our cash.

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The following table presents certain information regarding our dividend coverage:

Three months ended

March 31,

    

2023

    

2022

(in thousands)

Cash flows provided by operations (net (loss) income of $(688) and $3,389, respectively)

$

4,474

$

7,457

Distributions in excess of earnings received from unconsolidated affiliates

 

659

 

105

Gain on sales of real estate and non-real estate investments

 

 

1,329

Dividends declared

 

(3,147)

 

(3,007)

Excess

$

1,986

$

5,884

Six months ended

June 30,

    

2023

    

2022

(in thousands)

Cash flows provided by operations (net income of $4,041 and $10,496, respectively)

$

13,557

$

15,497

Distributions in excess of earnings received from unconsolidated affiliates

 

1,443

 

312

Gain on sales of real estate and non-real estate investments

 

2,596

 

3,340

Dividends declared

 

(6,320)

 

(6,044)

Excess

$

11,276

$

13,105

Limited Partnership Units

The Operating Partnership agreement provides that our Operating Partnership will distribute to the partners (subject to certain limitations) cash from operations on a quarterly basis (or more frequently, if we so elect) in accordance with the percentage interests of the partners. We determine the amounts of such distributions in our sole discretion.

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, we declared quarterly distributions totaling $5,373$10,721 to holders of limited partnership units in our Operating Partnership, which we paid on April 17, and July 17, 2023. Distributions were paid at a rate of $0.2875 per unit per quarter, which is equal to the per share distribution rate paid to the common shareholders.

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, we declared quarterly distributions totaling $5,359$10,716 to holders of limited partnership units in our Operating Partnership, which we paid on April 15, and July 15, 2022. Distributions were paid at a rate of $0.2875 per unit per quarter, which is equal to the per share distribution rate paid to the common shareholders.

Sources of Dividends and Distributions

For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, we paid aggregate dividends and distributions of $8,520, are funded$6,255, which were paid with cash flows provided by operating activities and distributions from unconsolidated affiliates.activities. Our funds from operations, or FFO was $7,388$17,552 for the threesix months ended March 31, 2022; therefore, we believeJune 30, 2023. Therefore, our dividend andmanagement believes our distribution policy is sustainable over time. For the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022, we paid aggregate dividends and distributions of $8,366$5,748 which were paid with cash flows provided by operating activities and distributions from unconsolidated affiliates.activities. Our FFO was $8,901 as of$20,595 for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2022. For a further discussion of FFO, including a reconciliation of FFO to net income, see “Funds from Operations” above.

RecentlyIssuedAccountingPronouncements

For a discussion of recently issued accounting pronouncements, see Note 2, Principal Activity and Significant Accounting Policies— Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements, to the consolidated financial statements that are a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-Q.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

The Trust is exposed to certain risk arising from both its business operations and economic conditions and principally manages its exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of its core business activities. The Trust manages economic risks, liquidity, and credit risk primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of its assets and liabilities. The principal material financial market risk to which we are exposed, is interest-rate risk, which the Trust manages through the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, the Trust enters into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the receipt or payment of future known and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates. During the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, the Trust used 12 interest rate swaps to hedge the variable cash flows associated with market interest rate risk. These swaps have an aggregated notional amount of $105,340 the three months ended March 31,$104,648 at June 30, 2023. We do not enter into derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. The interest rate swaps expose us to credit risk in the event of non-performance by the counterparty under the terms of the agreement.

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As of March 31,June 30, 2023, the Trust had $105,340$104,648 of variable-rate borrowings, with the total outstanding balance fixed through interest rate swaps. Even though our goal is to maintain a fairly low exposure to interest rate risk, we may become vulnerable to significant fluctuations in interest rates on any future repricing or refinancing of our fixed or variable rate debt or future debt.

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Item 4. Controls and Procedures.

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of March 31,June 30, 2023, such disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the firstsecond fiscal quarter of 2023 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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Table of Contents

PART II

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings.

From time to time we may be involved in disputes or litigation relating to claims arising out of our operations. We are not currently a party to any legal proceedings that could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operation.operation, or cash flows.

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

We maintain our cash and cash equivalents at insured financial institutions. The combined account balances at each institution periodically exceeds the FDIC insurance coverage of $250,000, and, as a result, there is a concentration of credit risk related to amounts in excess of FDIC insurance coverage. We do not have any bank accounts, loans from, or any other amounts due to or from any recently failed financial institution, nor have we experienced any losses to date on our cash and cash equivalents held in bank accounts. However, there is no assurance that financial institutions in which we hold our cash and cash equivalents will not fail, in which case we may be subject to a risk of loss or delay in accessing all or a portion of our funds exceeding the FDIC insurance coverage, which could adversely impact our short-term liquidity, ability to operating our business, and financial performance.

Other than as described above, thereThere have been no material changes to the risk factors set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period endedended December 31, 2022.

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

Sale of Securities

Neither Sterling nor the Operating Partnership issued any unregistered securities during the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023.

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Table of Contents

Other Sales

During the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, we did not issue any common shares in exchange for limited partnership units of the Operating Partnership.

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Redemptions of Securities

Set forth below is information regarding common shares and limited partnership units redeemed during the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023:

Average

Total Number of

Total Number of

Approximate Dollar Value of

Average

Total Number of

Total Number of

Approximate Dollar Value of

Total Number

Total Number

Price

Shares Redeemed

Units Redeemed

Shares (or Units) that May

Total Number

Total Number

Price

Shares Redeemed

Units Redeemed

Shares (or Units) that May

of Common

of Limited

Paid per

as Part of

as Part of

Yet Be Redeemed Under

of Common

of Limited

Paid per

as Part of

as Part of

Yet Be Redeemed Under

Shares

Partner Units

Common

Publicly Announced

Publicly Announced

Publicly Announced

Shares

Partner Units

Common

Publicly Announced

Publicly Announced

Publicly Announced

Period

    

Redeemed

    

Redeemed

    

Share/Unit

    

Plans or Programs

    

Plans or Programs

    

Plans or Programs

    

Redeemed

    

Redeemed

    

Share/Unit

    

Plans or Programs

    

Plans or Programs

    

Plans or Programs

January 1-31, 2023

2,000

28,000

$

21.85

1,499,000

1,181,000

$

14,022

February 1-29, 2023

1,000

$

21.85

1,499,000

1,182,000

$

13,993

March 1-31, 2023

6,000

12,000

$

21.85

1,505,000

1,194,000

$

13,587

April 1-30, 2023

35,000

84,000

$

21.85

1,540,000

1,278,000

$

10,985

May 1-31, 2023

9,000

2,000

$

21.85

1,549,000

1,280,000

$

10,734

June 1-30, 2023

$

21.85

1,549,000

1,280,000

$

10,724

Total

8,000

41,000

44,000

86,000

For the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, the Trustwe redeemed all shares or units for which we received redemption requests. In addition, for the three months ended March 31,June 30, 2023, all common shares and units redeemed were redeemed as part of the publicly announced plans.

The Amended and Restated Share Redemption Plan, effective January 1, 2022, permits us to repurchase common shares held by our shareholders and limited partnership units held by partners of our Operating Partnership, up to a maximuman aggregate amount of $55,000 worth of shares and units, upon request by the holders after they have held them for at least one year and subject to other conditions and limitations described in the plan. The amount remaining to be redeemed as of March 31,June 30, 2023, was $13,587.$10,724. The redemption price for such shares and units redeemed under the plan was fixed at $21.85 per share or unit, which became effective January 1, 2022. The redemption plan will terminate in the event the shares become listed on any national securities exchange, the subject of bona fide quotes on any inter-dealer quotation system or electronic communications network or are the subject of bona fide quotes in the pink sheets. Additionally, the Board, in its sole discretion, may terminate, amend or suspend the redemption plan at any time if it determines to do so is in our best interest.

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Table of Contents

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information.

None.

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Item 6. Exhibits.

Exhibit

Number

Title of Document

3.1

Articles of Organization of Sterling Real Estate Trust filed December 3, 2002 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s General Form for Registration of Securities on Form 10-12G filed on March 7, 2011).

3.2

Amendment to Articles of Organization of Sterling Real Estate Trust dated August 1, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 5.02 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 24, 2014).

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws dated June 2, 2020 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 3, 2020).

10.1

Twelfth Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement, effective April 1, 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. 10.1 to the Trust’s current report on Form 8-K filed March 23, 2023).

31.1

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.2002.

101

The following materials from Sterling Real Estate Trust’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31,June 30, 2023 formatted in iXBRL (Inline iXtensibleeXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31,June 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022; (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations and Other Comprehensive Income for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022; (iii) Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the three and six months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022; (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the threesix months ended March 31,June 30, 2023 and 2022, and; (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

104

Cover Page Interactive Data File, formatted in iXBRL and contained in Exhibit 101.

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SIGNATURES

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

Dated:May 10,August 9, 2023

STERLING REAL ESTATE TRUST

By:

/s/ Kenneth P. Regan

Kenneth P. Regan

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

By:

/s/ Damon K. Gleave

Damon K. Gleave

Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)

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