SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. ____) Filed by the Registrant [ X ] Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ] Check the appropriate box: [X] Preliminary Proxy Statement [ ] Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) [ ] Definitive Proxy Statement [ ] Definitive Additional Materials [ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to Section 240.14a-11(c) or Section 240.14a-12 Super 8 Motels III, Ltd., a California limited partnership (Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter) N/A (Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement if other than the Registrant) Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box): [ ] No fee required. [ ] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11. 1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies: ------------------------------------------------------- 2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies: ------------------------------------------------------- 3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined): ------------------------------------------------------- 4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction: ------------------------------------------------------- 5) Total fee paid: ------------------------------------------------------- [X] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials. [X] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing. 1) Amount Previously Paid: $580 2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.: Schedule 14A 3) Filing Party: Registrant 4) Dated Filed: May 15, 1998 REVISED PRELIMINARY COPY INFORMATION STATEMENT PROPOSED ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT OF LIMITED PARTNERS OF SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD., A CALIFORNIA LIMITED PARTNERSHIP July ____, 1998 SOLICITATION OF CONSENTS The limited partners (the "Limited Partners") of SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD., a California limited partnership (the "Partnership"), are being asked to consider and approve by written consent the proposed sale of all of the Partnership's interests in real property and related personal property (the "Properties"), for an aggregate purchase price of $2,900,000, which proposal is described hereinafter. If the proposal is approved and the proposed sale is consummated, among other things, all of the Partnership's assets will be liquidated and the Partnership will be dissolved. (See "Effects of Approval of the Proposal" below.) THE ENCLOSED FORM OF ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT OF LIMITED PARTNERS (THE "CONSENT") IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE PARTNERSHIP AND GROTEWOHL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC., THE GENERAL PARTNER OF THE PARTNERSHIP (THE "GENERAL PARTNER"). This Information Statement and the enclosed Consent were first sent to the Limited Partners on or about July __, 1998. Units of limited partnership interest in the Partnership (the "Units") represented by Consents duly executed and returned to the Partnership on or before August__, 1998 (unless extended by the General Partner pursuant to notice mailed to the Limited Partners) will be voted or not voted in accordance with the instructions contained therein. If no instructions for the proposal are given on an executed and returned Consent, Units so represented will be voted in favor of the proposal. The General Partner will take no action with respect to the proposal addressed herein except as specified in the duly executed and returned Consents. The cost of this solicitation of Consents is being borne by the Partnership. Such solicitation is being made by mail and, in addition, may be made by officers and employees of the Partnership and the General Partner, either in person or by telephone or telegram. THIS TRANSACTION HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF SUCH TRANSACTION NOR UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS UNLAWFUL. 1 SPECIAL FACTORS The Partnership was formed in 1980 and its two motel properties located in San Bernardino and Bakersfield, California opened for business in 1982. This Information Statement has been prepared to ask the Limited Partners to approve the sale of the Properties for cash in the amount of the aggregate appraised fair market values of $2,900,000. It has always been the intention of the Partnership to liquidate the Properties when it became apparent that the best interests of the Limited Partners would be served by doing so. The General Partner has received inquiries over the years as to when the Properties were to be sold and the Partnership liquidated. Its response, until recently, has been that because of overbuilt and depressed motel market conditions, the time was not right for a sale of the Properties. Conditions have changed, and the General Partner believes that the Properties should be sold now and the Partnership liquidated. During September and October 1997, Everest Property II, LLC, a member of an affiliated group of entities which is the largest investor in the Partnership (the "Everest Group"), made an offer to purchase the Properties and the motel properties of four other California limited partnerships as to which the General Partner serves as general partner (the "GMS Partnerships"). The purchase price for the Properties set forth in the October offer was $1,418,595, a price far below $2,900,000, the recent appraised value and the price offered in the current proposal. The General Partner rejected the prior offer. Conflicts between the Everest Group and the Partnership resulted in lawsuits. Inasmuch as the General Partner agreed with the Everest Group in principle that the Properties should be sold, a settlement was reached whereby, among other things, the General Partner agreed to take steps to sell the Properties, and the lawsuits were dismissed. As discussed more fully below under "Appraisal of the Properties/Fairness Opinion," the Properties have been appraised by PKF Consulting, a highly-respected national hospitality industry specialist. Its conclusion is that the aggregate fair market value of the Properties is $2,900,000, which is the proposed purchase price of the Properties. The purchase price is to be paid in cash, and the net proceeds thereof will be distributed in accordance with the Partnership Agreement upon the close of the sales transactions and the concomitant dissolution of the Partnership. Termination of the Partnership will occur as soon as the winding up process can be completed. The Partnership and the General Partner believe that the proposed transaction is fair to the Limited Partners and are recommending the approval of the transaction by the Limited Partners for the following reasons: The General Partner believes that the sale value of the Properties is now at the crest of a seller's market which may not last much longer. Although there can be no assurance that the Properties' value will not increase over time, the General Partner believes that within the next five years only modest increases in the Properties' value can be expected to occur. This belief is substantiated by the appraisals. The General Partner believes that now is the time to sell the Properties. 2 Although the motels are in good condition, they are 16 years old and have never been refurbished. If the Properties are to be retained, it would be necessary for the Partnership to spend large sums for their refurbishment and modernization. The General Partner believes that the funds for such expenditures would not be available from cash flow, if at all, without reducing future distributions. The Partnership's intention has always been to sell the Properties when the market conditions warranted sale. It was never an investment objective of the Partnership to hold the Properties permanently. The General Partner understands that the circumstances of many of the Limited Partners have changed over the life of the Partnership and believes that the Limited Partners should be presented with an opportunity to liquidate their investments. In this regard, the General Partner believes it is important to understand that no true market exists for the sale of Units. Heretofore, to dispose of their Units, Limited Partners have had to arrange private sales, or accept tender offers, at prices well below the correlative value of the underlying assets. The Properties are proposed to be sold to the Buyer for $2,900,000, approximately $1,481,000 more than was offered for the Properties in October 1997 by the Everest Group. The sales price is equal to the appraised value of the Properties as determined by PKF Consulting, an independent real estate advisory firm specializing in the valuation of lodging properties. The proposed sale will be for all cash. PKF Consulting has rendered to the Partnership a fairness opinion, stating its opinion that the sales price is fair to the Partnership. The contract of sale between the Partnership and the Buyer provides for a closing of the sale within 30 days after approval of the sale by the Limited Partners. For these reasons, and because of the length of time that widespread marketing of the Properties might take, the General Partner has not actively marketed the Properties for sale. There can, therefore, be no assurance that the proposed sale of the Properties to the Buyer is at the highest price attainable for the Properties. As of May 31, 1998, the Limited Partners had already received, over the life of the Partnership, the sum of $663.98 per Unit in the form of quarterly distributions. Upon the sale of the Properties pursuant to the proposed transaction, the Limited Partners would receive total additional pretax distributions in the estimated amount of approximately $497 per Unit. For a discussion of other effects of the sale of the Properties, including Federal income tax consequences, see "Effects of Approval of the Proposal" below. OUTSTANDING VOTING SECURITIES AND VOTING RIGHTS The only outstanding class of voting securities of the Partnership is the Units. Each Unit entitles its holder to one vote on the proposal. All Limited Partners as of the date action is taken on the proposal (the "Record Date") are entitled to notice of and to vote on the proposal. As of April 13, 1998 there were 5,941 Units outstanding and a total of 929 Limited Partners entitled to vote such Units. With respect to the proposal to be voted upon, the favorable vote of Limited Partners holding in excess of 50% of the Units outstanding as of the Record Date will be required for approval. 3 There are no rights of appraisal or similar rights of dissenters under California law or otherwise with regard to the proposal to be voted upon. Dissenting Limited Partners are protected under California law by virtue of the fiduciary duty of the General Partner to act with prudence in the business affairs of the Partnership on behalf of the Partnership and the Limited Partners. As of April 13, 1998 no person or group of related persons was known by the Partnership to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the Units, except the following group of related Unit holders: Everest Lodging Investors, LLC 216 Units 3.64% Everest Madison Investors, LLC 280 Units 4.71% KM Investments 50 Units 0.84% ----------------------- Total 546 Units 9.19% None of Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. (the General Partner), Philip B. Grotewohl, David P. Grotewohl or Mark Grotewohl, or any of their affiliates, are the beneficial owners of any Units. As set forth above, the Everest Group owns 546 Units (9.19% of the total). In a written agreement dated April 21, 1998, which amended the settlement agreement dated February 20, 1998 (referred to above under "Special Factors"), the Everest Group agreed to vote in favor of the proposed transaction upon satisfaction of the following conditions: (i) execution by the GMS Partnerships of an exclusive sales agency contract in favor of the Everest Group; (ii) execution by the GMS Partnerships with an entity affiliated with Mark Grotewohl not later than April 30, 1998 of purchase agreements for the properties of the GMS Partnerships providing for sale prices equal to the respective appraised values of the properties and for full payment in cash at the time of the closing of escrow; (iii) the grant to the Everest Group of the first opportunity to arrange financing for the proposed transactions; and (iv) the diligent preparation and dissemination by the Partnership of this Information Statement. Condition (i) was satisfied on May 8, 1998 by the execution of an exclusive sales agency contract granting the Everest Group an exclusive listing for the sale of the Property and the properties owned by the other GMS Partnerships for a six-month period. For a discussion of the commissions payable pursuant to such contract, see "Purchase Agreement" below. No meeting will be held with regard to this solicitation of the Limited Partners. Voting may be accomplished by completing and returning to the offices of the Partnership, at 2030 J Street, Sacramento, California 95814, telephone: (916) 442-9183, the form of Consent included herewith. Only Consents received prior to the close of business on the date (the "Action Date") which is the earlier of (i) the date on which the Partnership receives approval of the proposal by a majority-in-interest of the Limited Partners, or (ii) August __, 1998 (unless extended by the General Partner pursuant to notice mailed to the Limited Partners), will be counted toward the vote on the proposal. However, Limited Partners are urged to return their Consents at the earliest practicable date. If a Limited Partner has delivered an executed Consent to the Partnership, the Limited Partner may revoke such Consent not later than the close of business on the date immediately prior to the Action Date. As of the Action Date, the action which is the subject of this solicitation will either be effective (if the requisite number of executed Consents have been received by the Partnership) or the solicitation period will have expired without approval 4 of the proposal. The only method for revoking a Consent once it has been delivered to the Partnership is by the delivery to the Partnership prior to the Action Date of a written instrument executed by the Limited Partner who executed the Consent which states that the Consent previously executed and delivered is thereby revoked. Other than the substance of the revocation described above, no specific form is required for such revocation. An instrument of revocation will be effective only upon its actual receipt prior to the Action Date by the Partnership or its authorized agent at the Partnership's place of business as set forth in the foregoing paragraph. CONSENT UNDER PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT Pursuant to Section 14.1(e) of the Partnership's Certificate and Agreement of Limited Partnership (the "Partnership Agreement"), a majority-in-interest of the Limited Partners must approve or disapprove the sale of all or substantially all of the Partnership's properties. Also, under Section 11.2 of the Partnership Agreement, the Partnership is not permitted to sell its property to "Affiliates" of the General Partner. (The Partnership Agreement defines "Affiliate" as (i) any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with another person, (ii) any person owning or controlling 10% or more of the outstanding voting securities of such other person, (iii) any officer, director or partner of such person, and (iv) if such other person is an officer, director or partner, any company for which such person acts in any such capacity.) Although it might be contended that the Buyer (as defined herein) is an Affiliate of the General Partner, in the opinion of the General Partner the Buyer does not come within such definition. (See "Purchase Agreement" below.) However, recognizing the possibility that such a relationship might be deemed to exist, and because the Properties constitute all of the Partnership's properties (as discussed below under "The Properties and the Partnership's Business"), the General Partner is seeking the approval of the proposed sale of the Properties to the Buyer (as defined herein) on the terms described herein by a majority-in-interest of the Limited Partners. If the proposal is approved by the Limited Partners but the proposed sale of the Properties described herein is not consummated because one or more of the conditions precedent to the sale (see "Purchase Agreement") is not satisfied (excluding the condition precedent that the Limited Partners approve the proposed sale), the General Partner will consider the Limited Partners' approval of the proposal set forth herein to constitute approval of any purchase offer for the Properties (or for an individual motel, including the related personal property) if such purchase offer is reflected in an executed purchase agreement no later than January 31, 1999, is consummated no later than June 30, 1999, is for "all cash," and is for an amount equal to or greater than $1,600,000 for the San Bernardino motel and $1,300,000 for the Bakersfield motel. If the General Partner should receive more than one such purchase offer, it would accept the best offer, unless the General Partner had already entered into a binding contract for a less favorable offer. However, notwithstanding the preceding, if prior to entering into a binding contract the General Partner should receive one or more "all cash" purchase offers and also should receive one or more purchase offers in an amount greater than that set forth in the highest "all cash" offer but entailing the receipt by the Partnership of a promissory note for part of the purchase price, the Partnership would present all such offers to the Limited Partners for approval. In the event the Limited Partners do not approve the proposal, the Partnership will not proceed to implement the proposed sale of the Properties. 5 THE PROPERTIES AND THE PARTNERSHIP'S BUSINESS The Properties consist of fee interests in land located in San Bernardino and Bakersfield, California, the motel properties constructed thereon, and the related personal property. The two motels are managed and operated by the Partnership under the name "Super 8 Motel." Narrative Description of Business (a) Franchise Agreements The Partnership operates each of its motel properties as a franchisee of Super 8 Motels, Inc. through sub-franchises obtained from Super 8 Management Corporation. In March 1988, Brown & Grotewohl, a California general partnership that is an Affiliate of the General Partner (the "Manager"), became sub-franchisor in the stead of Super 8 Management Corporation, another Affiliate of the General Partner. As of November 10, 1997, Super 8 Motels, Inc. had franchised a total of 1,619 motels having an aggregate of 98,000 guestrooms in operation. Super 8 Motels, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hospitality Franchise Systems, Inc. Neither the Partnership nor the General Partner has any interest in Hospitality Franchise Systems, Inc. The objective of the Super 8 Motel chain is to maintain a competitive position in the motel industry by offering to the public comfortable, no-frills accommodations at a budget price. Each Super 8 Motel provides its guests with attractively decorated rooms, free color television, direct dial telephone and other basic amenities, but eliminates or modifies other items to provide substantial cost reduction without seriously affecting comfort or convenience. Some of these savings are accomplished by reductions in room size, elimination of expensive lobbies, and by substantial economies in building construction. By the terms of each franchise agreement with Super 8 Motels, Inc., the Partnership pays monthly franchise fees equal to 4% of its gross room revenues (half of which is paid to the sub-franchisor) and contributes an additional 1% of its gross room revenues to a fund administered by Super 8 Motels, Inc. to finance the national reservation and promotions program. (b) Operation of the Motels The Manager manages and operates the Partnership's motels. The Manager's management responsibilities include, but are not limited to, supervision and direction of the Partnership's employees having direct responsibility for the operation of each motel, establishment of room rates and direction of the promotional activities of the Partnership's employees. In addition, the Manager directs the purchase of replacement equipment and supplies, maintenance activity and the engagement or selection of all vendors, suppliers and independent contractors. The Partnership's financial accounting activities are performed by the individual motel staffs and a centralized accounting staff, all of which work under the direction of the General Partner or the Manager. Together, these staffs perform all bookkeeping duties in connection with each motel, including all collections and all disbursements to be paid out of funds generated by motel operations or otherwise supplied by the Partnership. As of December 31, 1997, the Partnership employed a total of 39 persons, either full or part-time, at its two motel properties, including ten desk clerks, 24 housekeeping and laundry personnel, three maintenance personnel, and two motel managers. In addition, and as of the same date, the Partnership employed 11 persons in administrative positions at its central office in Sacramento, California, all of whom worked for the Partnership on a part-time 6 basis. They included accounting, investor service, sales and marketing and motel supervisory personnel, secretarial personnel, and purchasing personnel. (c) Competition As discussed in greater detail below, in the areas in which its motel properties are located the Partnership faces intense competition from motels of varying quality and size, including other budget motels which are part of nationwide chains and which have access to nationwide reservation systems. Super 8 Motels offer accommodations at the upper end, in terms of facilities and prices, of the budget segment of the lodging industry. Properties The net proceeds of the Partnership's offering of Units (and financing in the amount of $870,000 which has since been repaid) were expended for the acquisition in fee and development of two properties located in San Bernardino and Bakersfield, California. (a) San Bernardino, California The San Bernardino motel, which consists of 81 guest rooms on approximately 1.87 acres of land, commenced operations on March 6, 1982. The average monthly occupancy rates and average monthly room rates during the three most recent years are as follows: 1997 1996 1995 ------------------------------------------- Average Occupancy 53.8% 49.9% 55.3% Rate Average Room Rate $43.57 $40.23 $40.29 The Partnership's San Bernardino motel provides accommodations to no one customer, the loss of which could materially affect the Partnership's operations. The following lodging facilities provide direct and indirect competition to the Partnership's San Bernardino motel: Approximate Number Distance Facility Of Rooms From Motel - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Comfort Inn 50 Adjacent Hilton Inn 200 Across street La Quinta Motel 154 200 Yards TraveLodge 90 200 Yards EZ-8 Motel 117 0.13 Mile 7 (b) Bakersfield, California The Bakersfield motel, which consists of 90 guestrooms on approximately 2.32 acres of land, commenced operations on September 20, 1982. The average monthly occupancy rate and average monthly room rate for the three most recent years are as follows: 1997 1996 1995 ------------------------------------------- Average Occupancy 84.6% 87.2% 85.6% Rate Average Room Rate $32.35 $30.28 $30.87 From October 1, 1982 to January 31, 1993, an agreement was in effect granting the Partnership the first opportunity to provide rooms to employees of Santa Fe Railroad at a room rate of $20.00 per night. Though expired according to its terms, the contract continues to be observed by both parties, except that the agreed rate is now $23.00 per room night. Revenue attributable to this agreement constituted approximately 32%, 31%, and 32% of the motel's guest room revenues during 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. On December 31, 1992, the Partnership entered into a written agreement with the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) for the provision of lodging services to its employees at a room rate of $25.75 per night, which included a transportation credit of $1.75 per room night payable to the Partnership for providing transportation from the train terminal. Due to competitive bids, the rate was lowered to $24.00 per room night effective October 1, 1994. Amtrak provided approximately 24%, 22% and 26% of the motel's guest room revenue in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Except as set forth above, the Bakersfield motel provides accommodations to no one customer, the loss of which could materially affect the Partnership's operations. The following lodging facilities provide direct or indirect competition to the Partnership's Bakersfield motel: Approximate Number Distance Facility Of Rooms From Motel - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- California Inn 74 Adjacent Motel 6 160 0.50 Mile EZ-8 Motel 100 0.50 Mile TraveLodge Plaza 61 0.75 Mile Comfort Inn South 80 0.75 Mile Four Points Inn 199 1.00 Mile Best Western Kern River Motor Inn 200 1.00 Mile La Quinta Inn 150 1.00 Mile Days Inn 120 1.00 Mile Roderunner 49 1.50 Miles Economy Motels of America 140 1.50 Miles Rio Mirada 209 2.00 Miles Comfort Inn 60 2.00 Miles Econo Lodge 100 2.00 Miles Holiday Inn Express 100 6.00 Miles 8 MANAGEMENT The Partnership is a California limited partnership which has no executive officers or directors. The principal business address of the Partnership is 2030 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. The Partnership's general partner is Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. is a California corporation owned one-half by Philip B. Grotewohl and one-half by his former wife, who is not involved in the day-to-day operations of Grotewohl Management Services, Inc., and who does not serve as a director or executive officer thereof. The directors of Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. are Philip B. Grotewohl and David P. Grotewohl, his son, and the executive officers of Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. are Philip B. Grotewohl, David P. Grotewohl, and Lee Cummings. The principal business address of Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. is 2030 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. During the past five years Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. and its affiliate, Brown & Grotewohl, a California general partnership one-half owned by Philip B. Grotewohl and one-half owned by the Estate of Dennis A. Brown, principally have been engaged in the business of managing various limited partnerships which own and operate lodging facilities, and in the business of managing such lodging facilities. During the past five years Philip B. Grotewohl's business activities have been conducted solely through Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. and Brown & Grotewohl. The principal business address of Philip B. Grotewohl is 2030 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. In addition to serving as an executive officer of Grotewohl Management Services, Inc., during the past two and one-half years David P. Grotewohl has been engaged part-time as a sole proprietor in the marketing of consumer products and services under the business name "The Biscayne Group." The principal business address of David P. Grotewohl is 2030 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. PURCHASE AGREEMENT On April 30, 1998, the Partnership entered into an agreement to sell the Properties to Tiburon Capital Corporation, San Francisco, California, or a nominee of Tiburon Capital Corporation (the "Buyer"), for the sum of $2,900,000, payable in cash at the close of escrow. Escrow was opened at Chicago Title Company, San Francisco, California on June 10, 1998. The following paragraph is based on information provided by the Buyer. The Buyer is a California corporation formed in 1992. All of its stock has been owned since its inception equally by William R. Dixon, Jr., Herbert J. Jaffe, John L. Wright and John F. Dixon. Management and control persons of the Buyer consist of its stockholders. The Buyer and its related entities, including Pacific Management Group, Inc., NCM Management Ltd. and Capital Concepts Investment Corp., are and have been involved in many business transactions, including the ownership and asset or property management of real estate assets. (The owners, management and the control persons of such related entities are two or more of the owners of the Buyer.) In many instances, the real estate assets were or are owned by limited partnerships or limited liability companies formed and syndicated by the Buyer or its related entities for the specific purpose of owning such assets. The form of an entity owning real estate assets is typically dictated by investors and/or lenders. In like fashion, it is anticipated that a nominee of the Buyer, which would be a limited liability company, would actually purchase the Properties instead of the Buyer. It is currently anticipated that the members of such limited liability company would be two other limited liability companies, one of which would be formed and syndicated by the Buyer and the other of which would be formed and wholly-owned by Mark Grotewohl. In 9 such event, Mark Grotewohl would be entitled to up to a 50% indirect interest in the owner of the Properties, and in some way is expected to share in the management and control of the owner of the Properties and/or the management of the Properties. Mr. Grotewohl's ultimate rights and obligations are the subject of current negotiation between him and the Buyer. Mark Grotewohl is the son of Philip B. Grotewohl. During the last five years, until April 30, 1998, Mark Grotewohl was employed as the marketing and sales director for the five GMS Partnerships. Since that time, Mark Grotewohl has been engaged in facilitating the proposed transaction. The home address of Mark Grotewohl is 1811 11th Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95818. It might be contended that Mark Grotewohl is, by virtue of his past relationship with the Partnership and the General Partner, an Affiliate of the Partnership and the General Partner as defined in its Partnership Agreement. Under Section 11.2 of the Partnership Agreement, the Partnership is not permitted to sell its real property to "Affiliates" of the General Partner. (The Partnership Agreement defines "Affiliate" as (i) any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with another person, (ii) any person owning or controlling 10% or more of the outstanding voting securities of such other person, (iii) any officer, director or partner of such person, and (iv) if such other person is an officer, director or partner, any company for which such person acts in any such capacity.) The General Partner believes that, based on the facts and circumstances, Mark Grotewohl is not an Affiliate of the Partnership or the General Partner, because Mark Grotewohl (i) does not control the Partnership or the General Partner, (ii) owns no voting securities in the Partnership or the General Partner, and (iii) is not an officer, director or partner of the General Partner or the Partnership. The Buyer has made a contemporaneous offer to purchase the motel properties of the four other GMS Partnerships. The offers made by the Buyer for the properties of each of the GMS Partnerships have been evaluated independently by the General Partner. Other than with respect to the purchase price of each motel, the offers are on identical terms. If the limited partners of the other partnerships do not approve the sale of their respective properties to the Buyer, the Buyer has the right and option not to proceed with the proposed purchase of the Properties from the Partnership, even if the Limited Partners approve this sale. In this regard, the Partnership has not solicited any offers to purchase the Properties or the motel properties of the other GMS Partnerships, has not listed the Properties or the motel properties of the other GMS Partnerships for sale with independent brokers, and has not otherwise actively sought competing offers for the Properties or the motel properties of the other GMS Partnerships. Consequently, the offer presented by the Buyer is the only offer that the General Partner has received for the Properties or the motel properties of the other GMS Partnerships other than those presented by the Everest Group. There are a number of significant conditions to the consummation of the proposed sale of the Properties; therefore, there can be no assurance as to whether, or when, such transaction will be consummated. Among these conditions are the Partnership's receipt of the approval of the Limited Partners; the Buyer's receipt (at the Partnership's expense) and approval of an ALTA Survey and preliminary title report for the Properties; the absence of any damage or loss to the Properties prior to the closing date in excess of $50,000; the decision by the Buyer, in its unfettered discretion, to terminate the proposed purchase prior to June 30, 1998; the Buyer's receipt prior to June 30, 1998 of a loan commitment for financing in an amount of not less than 90% of the purchase price of the Properties (as of the date hereof the Buyer had not yet received 10 such a commitment); and receipt by the Partnership of any necessary approvals of the sale by, among others, the franchisor. The General Partner expects that such conditions will be satisfied; however, there can be no assurances in this regard. No federal or state regulatory requirements must be complied with, or approvals obtained, in connection with the transaction. The Buyer will deposit the sum of $15,000 into escrow on the later of the expiration of the Buyer's inspection period referred to above or the date the Partnership notifies the Buyer that the Limited Partners have approved the proposed sale of the Properties. Should the Buyer default in the performance of its obligations under the purchase agreement, the Partnership will be entitled to retain said deposit as its only damages. The Partnership and the Buyer will share closing costs. The General Partner anticipates that the Partnership's share of aggregate closing costs, including real estate brokerage commissions, will be approximately $108,750. Included therein is a real estate brokerage commission payable to Everest Financial, Inc., a member of the Everest Group, in an amount equal to 2.75% of the purchase price. Everest Financial, Inc. has agreed to reallow 1.25% of the purchase price to the Buyer's broker or, at the Buyer's option, the Buyer will be entitled to a credit against the purchase price in the amount of 1.25% of the purchase price. EFFECTS OF APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSAL General The consummation of the proposed sale of the Properties and the concomitant dissolution of the Partnership should result in the following consequences for the Partnership, the Limited Partners and the General Partner: (i) The Limited Partners are expected to receive the distributions of net cash proceeds from the sale of the Properties as described below. (ii) The Limited Partners and General Partner are expected to realize the Federal income tax consequences as described below. (iii) All of the Partnership's assets and liabilities will be liquidated, the Partnership will be dissolved and terminated, and the registration of the Units under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 will be terminated. The consequences stated above are discussed in more detail in the subsections which follow. Those subsections, in part, include computations as to the cash proceeds to be received and distributed by the Partnership, and the taxable gain and allocations thereof to be made by the Partnership, in the event the proposed sale is consummated. HOWEVER, THIS INFORMATION IS PRESENTED SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSES OF EVALUATING THE PROPOSAL. ALL AMOUNTS ARE ESTIMATES ONLY. ALL COMPUTATIONS ARE BASED ON ASSUMPTIONS (SUCH AS THE DATE OF SALE, THE EXPENSES OF THE SALE, AND THE RESULTS OF PARTNERSHIP OPERATIONS THROUGH THE DATE OF SALE) WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT PROVE TO BE ACCURATE AND SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON TO INDICATE THE ACTUAL RESULTS WHICH MAY BE ATTAINED. Determination and Use of Net Proceeds The following is a summary of the projected amount of cash to be received by the Partnership and the projected amount of cash to be distributed to the Limited Partners, assuming the Properties are sold for a gross sales price of $2,900,000. This summary has been prepared by the General Partner. 11 If the proposed transaction is consummated on September 30, 1998, it is estimated that the Partnership would receive the following net proceeds: Gross sales price $2,900,000 Less: Real estate commission (79,750) Estimated escrow and closing costs (29,000) ----------- Net proceeds of sale $2,791,250 Included in closing costs set forth above are, among other items, estimated legal fees of $37,000, estimated fees in connection with the appraisals and fairness opinion of $10,000, estimated accounting fees of $16,000 and estimated fees in connection with solicitation activities of $4,000. The Partnership's real property taxes are payable twice yearly on April 10 and December 10, partially in arrears, in the current amount of $27,746.54 each. Accordingly, if the proposed transaction is consummated, the actual date of consummation will determine whether there is a credit to the Buyer for prorated real property taxes. Similarly, the amount indicated below as the estimate of reserves available for distribution on dissolution of the Partnership will vary depending on the actual date of consummation of the proposed transaction. The net proceeds of $2,791,250 estimated to be received by the Partnership from the proposed transaction, in the estimated amount of $469.83 per Unit based on a closing date of September 30, 1998, would be distributed entirely to the Limited Partners. The Partnership's cash reserves would be retained for the payment of accounts payable and other liabilities and expenses incurred to that date or expected to be incurred in connection with the operation of the Properties through the date of sale and the operation and winding-up of the Partnership through its termination, and the balance, estimated to be $159,000 or $26.75 per Unit, also would be distributed entirely to the Limited Partners. Alternatively, if the proposed sale is not approved, the Partnership would continue to operate the Properties for an indeterminate period pending receipt of another purchase offer which is acceptable to the Limited Partners. The General Partner estimates that if the Properties are not sold the Partnership will make average annual distributions to the Limited Partners of from zero to $297,000 ($50.00 per Unit) for the foreseeable future. However, there can be no assurance that the General Partner's estimate in this regard will be borne out. Federal Income Tax Consequences (a) General. The following is a summary of the Federal income tax consequences expected to result from consummation of the proposed transaction based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), existing laws, judicial decisions and administrative regulations, rulings and practices. This summary is general in content and does not include considerations which might affect certain Limited Partners, such as Limited Partners which are trusts, corporations or tax-exempt entities, or Limited Partners who must pay an alternative minimum tax. Except as otherwise specifically indicated, this summary does not address any state or local tax consequences. Tax counsel to the Partnership, Derenthal & Dannhauser, has delivered an opinion to the Partnership which states that the following summary has been reviewed by it and, to the extent the summary involves matters of law, 12 represents its opinion, subject to the assumptions, qualifications, limitations and uncertainties set forth therein. (b) Characterization of Gain. Upon the sale of property, the owner thereof measures his gain or loss by the difference between the amount of consideration received in connection with the sale and the owner's adjusted basis in the property. A gain will be recognized for Federal income tax purposes. This is so because the depreciation used for Federal income tax purposes, which decreases adjusted basis, was greater than that used for book purposes. The Properties should constitute "Section 1231 property" (i.e., real property and depreciable assets used in a trade or business which are held for more than one year) rather than "dealer" property (i.e., property which is held primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business). While it is possible that the Internal Revenue Service will argue that the Properties is "dealer" property, gain upon the sale of which would be taxed entirely as ordinary income, tax counsel to the Partnership is of the opinion that it is more likely than not that such an assertion would not be sustained by a court. A Limited Partner's allocable share of Section 1231 gain from the sale of the Properties would be combined with any other Section 1231 gains or losses incurred by him in the year of sale, and his net Section 1231 gains or losses would be taxed as long-term capital gains or constitute ordinary losses, as the case may be, except that a Limited Partner's net Section 1231 gains will be treated as ordinary income to the extent of net Section 1231 losses for the five most recent years which have not previously been offset against net Section 1231 gains. Long-term gain on sale of Section 1231 property is taxed as follows: (i) the excess of accelerated depreciation over straight-line depreciation is taxed as ordinary income rates, (ii) to the extent that any other gain would be treated as ordinary income if the property were depreciable personal property rather than depreciable real property, at a maximum rate of 25%, and (iii) the balance at a maximum rate of 20%. Set forth below are the General Partner's estimates of the total taxable gain for Federal income tax purposes, and the allocations thereof, which will result if the proposed sale of the Properties is consummated, based on an assumed closing date of September 30, 1998. These estimates do not include any amounts relating to Partnership operations prior to the sale of the Properties or relating to dissolution of the Partnership. These estimates are not the subject of an opinion of counsel. Portion Total Taxed As Portion Portion Estimated Ordinary Taxed At Taxed At Gain Income 25% Rate 20% Rate ----------------------------------------------------------- Limited Partners $2,667,000 $ 0 $2,667,000 $ 0 General Partner 27,000 0 27,000 0 ------ ----- ------ ----- Total $2,694,000 $ 0 $2,694,000 $ 0 ========= ===== ========= ===== Per Unit $448.91 $ 0 $448.91 $ 0 ====== ===== ====== ===== 13 Because of different methods of depreciation used for California income tax purposes than for Federal income tax purposes, the General Partner anticipates that consummation of the proposed transaction would produce a gain for California income tax purposes in the amount of approximately $1,814,000, of which approximately $18,000 and $1,796,000 would be allocated to the General Partner and to the Limited Partners, respectively. Dissolution of the Partnership Section 18.1(e) of the Partnership Agreement provides that the Partnership shall be dissolved upon the sale of all motel properties or any interest therein and the conversion into cash of any proceeds of sale originally received in a form other than cash. If the proposal is approved by a majority-in-interest of the Limited Partners, and if the proposed sale of the Properties is consummated, the net cash proceeds received by the Partnership upon close of escrow for the proposed transaction will be distributed in accordance with the provisions of the Partnership Agreement. Thereupon the Partnership will be dissolved, the General Partner will commence to wind up the business of the Partnership, and after payment of all expenses of the Partnership (including the expense of a final accounting for the Partnership) the remaining cash reserves of the Partnership will be distributed in accordance with the provisions of the Partnership Agreement. The General Partner will then take all necessary steps toward termination of the Partnership's Certificate of Limited Partnership. APPRAISAL OF THE PROPERTIES/FAIRNESS OPINION The appraisals of the two motel properties, dated February 20, 1998, were prepared by PKF Consulting, San Francisco, California, and indicate that the aggregate current fair market value as of January 1, 1998 was $2,900,000. PKF Consulting was selected by the General Partner based on its expertise in appraising motel properties in the State of California. PKF Consulting also prepared appraisals of the motel properties of the other GMS Partnerships. The appraised value of the Properties was determined through the use of two methodologies: the sales comparison approach and the income capitalization approach. No limitations were imposed by the General Partner on the appraiser's investigation. Upon request the Partnership will furnish to a Limited Partner, without charge, a copy of each appraisal. In this regard Limited Partners are cautioned to refer to the entire appraisal reports, inasmuch as the opinions of value stated therein are subject to the assumptions and limiting conditions stated therein. Furthermore, Limited Partners should be aware that appraised values are opinions and, as such, may not represent the realizable value of the Properties. Neither the appraiser, nor any of its affiliates, has had any prior relationship with the Partnership, the General Partner or any of their affiliates other than as an appraiser of the Properties and the properties of the other GMS Partnerships and no future relationship other than as an appraiser is contemplated. The Partnership has also received an opinion from PKF Consulting to the effect that the terms of the proposed sale are fair and equitable from a financial standpoint to the Limited Partners. Upon request, the Partnership will 14 furnish to a Limited Partner, without charge, a copy of the fairness opinion. 15 FINANCIAL INFORMATION Selected Partnership Financial Data The Partnership's book values per Unit as of December 31, 1997 and March 31, 1998 were $525.55 and $518.94, respectively. Following are selected financial data of the Partnership for the period from January 1, 1993 to December 31, 1997. Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31, 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Guest room income $1,592,209 $1,464,850 $1,526,742 $1,625,581 $1,734,535 Net income $117,093 $1,116 $68,750 $33,851 $49,083 Per Partnership Unit: Cash distributions $25.00 ---- ---- ---- ---- Net income $19.52 $0.19 $11.46 $5.64 $8.18 December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31, December 31, 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 Total assets $3,259,069 $3,237,869 $3,411,456 $3,632,719 $3,793,456 Long-term debt ---- ---- $75,493 $390,484 $595,214 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations I. Fiscal Year Financial Statements (a) Liquidity and Capital Resources The General Partner believes that the Partnership's liquidity, defined as its ability to generate sufficient cash to meet its cash needs, is adequate. The Partnership's primary source of internal liquidity is its revenues from motel operations. The Partnership had, as of December 31, 1997, current assets of $471,628, current liabilities of $116,417 and, therefore, an operating reserve of $355,211. The General Partner's reserves target is 5% of adjusted capital contributions, or $297,050. The Partnership's properties are currently unencumbered. Although no assurance can be had in this regard, the General Partner believes that the Partnership's equity in its properties provides a potential source of external liquidity (through financing) in the event the Partnership's internal liquidity is impaired. During 1997, the Partnership expended $66,721 for renovations and replacements, of which $36,441 was capitalized. This amount included $18,629 for guestroom carpets, $8,021 for two ice machines, $4,255 for tub refurbishing, $5,099 for replacement bedspreads, $6,323 for replacement air conditioners and $4,524 for replacement televisions. During 1996, the Partnership expended $70,718 for renovations and replacements, of which $24,711 was capitalized. This amount included $21,900 for parking lot resurfacing at the Bakersfield motel, $15,348 for computer systems, $7,345 for guest room carpets, $6,218 for re-keying, $5,365 for tub refurbishing, $5,006 for replacement bedspreads and $3,702 for replacement televisions. 16 The Partnership currently has no material commitments for capital expenditures, except that the Bakersfield motel requires painting and roof repairs. Its two motel properties are in full operation and no further property acquisitions or extraordinary capital expenditures are planned. If the properties are not sold the General Partner is aware of no material trends or changes with respect to the mix or relative cost of the Partnership's capital resources. If the properties are retained adequate working capital is expected to be generated by motel operations. (b) Results of Operations (i) Combined Financial Results The following tables summarize the operating results of the Partnership for 1997, 1996 and 1995 on a combined basis. The results of the individual motel properties follow in separate subsections. The income and expense numbers in the following table are shown on an accrual basis and other payments on a cash basis. Average Average Occupancy Room Fiscal Year Ended: Rate Rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------ December 31, 1995 71.3% $34.33 December 31, 1996 69.5% $33.66 December 31, 1997 70.0% $36.43 Total Expenditures Partnership Total and Cash Flow Fiscal Year Ended: Revenues Debt Service (1) - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- December 31, 1995 $1,571,111 $1,671,151 $(100,040) December 31, 1996 $1,510,262 $1,515,375 $(5,113) December 31, 1997 $1,641,860 $1,408,696 $233,164 (1) While Partnership Cash Flow as it is used here is not an amount found in the financial statements, this amount is the best indicator of the annual change in the amount, if any, available for distribution to the Limited Partners. These calculations are reconciled to the financial statements in the following table. A reconciliation of Partnership Cash Flow (included in the chart above) to Net Income as shown on the Statements of Operations (in the audited financial statements) is as follows: 1997 1996 1995 ---------------------------------------------- Partnership Cash Flow $233,164 $(5,113) $(100,040) Principal Payments on Financial Obligations 0 153,456 285,133 Additions to Fixed Assets 36,441 24,711 45,880 Depreciation and Amortization (151,769) (162,569) (164,599) Other Items (743) (9,369) 2,376 ============================================== Net Income $117,093 $1,116 $68,750 ============================================== 17 Following is a reconciliation of Partnership Cash Flow (shown above) to the aggregate total of Cash Flow from Properties Operations for the Partnership's two motels which are segregated in the tables below: 1997 1996 1995 ----------------------------------------- San Bernardino Motel $82,590 $20,090 $41,110 Bakersfield Motel 134,412 (34,512) (159,959) ----------------------------------------- Aggregate Cash Flow from Properties Operations $217,002 ($14,422) (118,849) Interest on Cash Reserves 13,116 8,288 10,071 Other Partnership Income (Net of Other Expenses) Not Allocated to the Properties 3,046 1,019 8,738 ----------------------------------------- Partnership Cash Flow $233,164 $(5,113) $(100,040) ----------------------------------------- The Partnership achieved a $131,598 or 8.7% increase in total revenues during 1997 as compared to 1996. The increase in revenue primarily is due to increased room rates at both motels. The San Bernardino market improved in 1997 as compared to 1996. The Partnership experienced a $60,849 or 3.9% decrease in total revenues during 1996 as compared to 1995. The decrease in revenue is due to slightly reduced room rates at both motels and to significantly reduced occupancy at the San Bernardino motel. These conditions are related to the high level of competition in the Bakersfield market and to poor economic conditions in the San Bernardino market. The Partnership achieved a $106,679 or 7.0% decrease in total expenditures and debt service during 1997 as compared to 1996. This decrease is due primarily to the liquidation of the Bakersfield motel's loan during 1996. The Partnership achieved a $155,776 or 9.3% reduction in total expenditures and debt service during 1996 as compared to 1995. This reduction is due primarily to the comparatively smaller payments necessary to liquidate the Bakersfield motel's loan and to lower payments for renovations and replacements. (ii) San Bernardino Motel Average Average Occupancy Room Fiscal Year Ended: Rate Rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------- December 31, 1995 55.3% $40.29 December 31, 1996 49.9% $40.23 December 31, 1997 53.8% $43.57 Total Cash Flow Expenditures From Total and Properties Fiscal Year Ended: Revenues Debt Service Operations - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- December 31, 1995 $678,561 $637,451 $41,110 December 31, 1996 $615,471 $595,381 $20,090 December 31, 1997 $717,895 $635,305 $82,590 18 The Partnership's San Bernardino motel achieved a $102,424 or 16.6% increase in total revenues during 1997 as compared to 1996. The increased revenue was primarily in guestroom revenue and was realized by increased business in the corporate market segment. The Partnership's San Bernardino motel experienced a $63,090 or 9.3% decrease in total revenues during 1996 as compared to 1995. Guestroom revenue from the leisure market segment decreased approximately $68,000 while the revenue from the other market segments remained substantially unchanged. The San Bernardino motel experienced a $39,924 or 6.7% increase in total expenditures during 1997 as compared to 1996. These expenditure increases included $14,184 in increased resident manager costs reflecting a management change, $9,987 in increased franchise and management fees costs associated with the increased guestroom revenue and $6,808 in increased renovation expenses. The San Bernardino motel achieved a $42,070 or 6.6% reduction in total expenditures during 1996 as compared to 1995. These expenditure reductions included $13,573 in reduced property taxes from a property tax appeal, $14,602 in reduced resident manager costs, $6,054 in lower housekeeping wages and $9,861 in reduced renovation expenses. These reductions were partially offset by $7,250 in increased appraisal costs and by $7,609 of increased workers' compensation insurance. (iii) Bakersfield Motel Average Average Occupancy Room Fiscal Year Ended: Rate Rate - ------------------------------------------------------------------------- December 31, 1995 85.6% $30.87 December 31, 1996 87.2% $30.28 December 31, 1997 84.6% $32.35 Total Cash Flow Expenditures From Total and Properties Fiscal Year Ended: Revenues Debt Service Operations - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- December 31, 1995 $882,261 $1,042,220 $(159,959) December 31, 1996 $885,403 $919,915 $(34,512) December 31, 1997 $910,849 $776,437 $134,412 The Bakersfield motel achieved a $25,446 or 2.9% increase in total revenues during 1997 as compared to 1996. Guestroom revenue increased $30,045 due to increased average room rates. The railroad contracts were essentially unchanged, while rate increases were achieved in other market segments with a slight decline in rooms sold. The Bakersfield motel achieved a $3,142 or 0.4% increase in total revenues during 1996 as compared to 1995. Guestroom revenue was substantially unchanged as the increase in occupancy was mostly offset by the decrease in average room rate. Decreased corporate and leisure business segments were offset by increased contract rooms to the Santa Fe Railroad and to Amtrak. 19 The Partnership's Bakersfield motel experienced a $143,478 or 15.6% decrease in total expenditures and debt service during 1997 as compared to 1996. The loan that was secured by the Bakersfield property was liquidated in 1996. The Partnership's Bakersfield motel experienced a $122,305 or 11.7% decrease in total expenditures and debt service during 1996 as compared to 1995. The $152,300 reduction in mortgage payments was partially offset by increased expenditures of $7,250 for appraisal fees, $5,460 for workers' compensation insurance and $5,329 for increased supplies. II. Interim Financial Statements (a) Liquidity and Capital Resources As of March 31, 1998, the Partnership's current assets of $498,813 exceeded current liabilities of $153,934, providing an operating reserve of $344,879. The General Partner's reserves target is 5% of adjusted capital contributions, or $297,050. The Partnership expended $13,090 on renovations and replacements during the three months ended March 31, 1998, of which $7,140 was capitalized. The expenditures included $7,140 for guestroom carpets. (b) Results of Operations Total Partnership income increased $5,886 or 1.4% for the first quarter of 1998 as compared to the first quarter of 1997. The decrease in the average occupancy rate from 74.3% in 1997 to 72.4% in 1998 was more than offset by an increase in the average room rate from $35.25 in 1997 to $36.73 in 1998. The decreased occupancy was due to a reduction in corporate business at the San Bernardino motel. Total Partnership expenses increased $23,412 or 6.5% primarily due to increases in the minimum wage and to increases in legal, appraisal and other costs associated with the proposed sale of the Properties and the liquidation of the Partnership. Other Financial Information Items 304 and 305 of Regulation S-K promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission are not applicable to the Partnership. Moreover, the General Partner is unaware of any "Year 2000" problems which could impact the Partnership's operations. 20 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for INFORMATION STATEMENT of SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. July __, 1998 F-i INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. Page INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT .......................................... F-1 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: Balance Sheets, December 31, 1997 and 1996............................. F-2 Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.................................. F-3 Statements of Partners' Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995............................ F-4 Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.................................. F-5 Notes to Financial Statements.......................................... F-7 Balance Sheets, March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997 (Unaudited)....... F- 11 Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 (Unaudited)........................ F-12 Statements of Partners' Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 (Unaudited)........................ F-13 Statement of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 1998 (Unaudited)................................. F-14 Notes to Financial Statements.......................................... F-15 F-ii REPORT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS To the Partners Super 8 Motels III, Ltd. We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Super 8 Motels III, Ltd., a California limited partnership, as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related statements of operations, partners' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Partnership's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Super 8 Motels III, Ltd. as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. VOCKER KRISTOFFERSON AND CO. February 26, 1998 San Mateo, California e-super8/s8397fs.wp8.wpd F-1 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) BALANCE SHEETS December 31, 1997 and 1996 ASSETS 1997 1996 ------------ -------- Current Assets: Cash and temporary investments (Notes 1, 3 and 6) $ 362,215 $ 254,782 Accounts receivable 100,184 68,114 Prepaid expenses 9,229 11,341 ----------- ----------- Total Current Assets 471,628 334,237 ---------- ----------- Property and Equipment (Note 2): Land 1,670,129 1,670,129 Capital improvements 26,175 26,175 Buildings 3,276,870 3,276,870 Furniture and equipment 782,439 756,837 ---------- ----------- 5,755,613 5,730,011 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (2,968,172) (2,826,379) --------- ---------- Property and Equipment, Net 2,787,441 2,903,632 --------- ---------- Total Assets $3,259,069 $3,237,869 ========== ========== LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 105,668 $ 62,020 Due to related parties 10,749 1,765 ---------- -------- Total Current Liabilities 116,417 63,785 ---------- ------- Total Liabilities 116,417 63,785 ---------- -------- Partners' Equity: General Partner 20,376 19,205 Limited Partners 3,122,276 3,154,879 --------- ---------- Total Partners' Equity 3,142,652 3,174,084 --------- ---------- Total Liabilities and Partners' Equity $3,259,069 $3,237,869 ========== ========== See accompanying notes to financial statements. F-2 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Years Ended December 31: 1997 1996 1995 ---------- ---------- --------- Income: Guest room $1,592,209 $1,464,850 $1,526,742 Telephone and vending 33,356 34,128 32,654 Interest 13,116 8,288 10,071 Other 3,178 2,996 1,644 ------------ ------------ ----------- Total Income 1,641,859 1,510,262 1,571,111 ---------- ---------- ---------- Expenses: Motel operations (Notes 4 and 5) 1,164,112 1,189,294 1,174,475 General and administrative (Note 4) 127,448 74,474 57,956 Depreciation and amortization (Note 2) 151,769 162,569 164,599 Interest - 7,765 27,290 Property management fees (Note 4) 81,437 75,044 78,041 ---------- ----------- ----------- Total Expenses 1,524,766 1,509,146 1,502,361 ---------- ---------- ---------- Net Income $ 117,093 $ 1,116 $ 68,750 ========== =========== =========== Net Income Allocable to General Partner $1,171 $11 $688 ====== === ==== Net Income Allocable to Limited Partners $115,922 $1,105 $68,062 ======== ====== ======= Net Income Per Partnership Unit (Note 1) $19.52 $.19 $11.46 ====== ==== ====== Distributions to Limited Partners Per Partnership Unit (Note 1) $25.00 $ - $ - ====== ======== ===== See accompanying notes to financial statements. F-3 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) STATEMENTS OF PARTNERS' EQUITY Years Ended December 31: 1997 1996 1995 ---------- ---------- ------- General Partner: Balance, beginning of year $ 19,205 $ 19,194 $ 18,506 Net income 1,171 11 688 ------------ ------------- ----------- Balance, End of Year 20,376 19,205 19,194 ----------- ----------- ---------- Limited Partners: Balance, beginning of year 3,154,879 3,153,774 3,085,712 Net Income 115,922 1,105 68,062 Cash Distributions (148,525) - - ----------- -------------- --------- Balance, End of Year 3,122,276 3,154,879 3,153,774 ---------- ---------- ---------- Total Partners' Equity $3,142,652 $3,174,084 $3,172,968 ========== ========== ========== See accompanying notes to financial statements. F-4 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Years Ended December 31: 1997 1996 1995 ---------- ---------- ------- Cash Flows From Operating Activities: Received from motel operations $1,596,674 $1,505,571 $1,575,015 Expended for motel operations and general and administrative expenses (1,317,510) (1,359,033) (1,313,408) Interest received 13,115 9,401 9,154 Interest paid - (9,044) (29,666) -------------- ------------ ---------- Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 292,279 146,895 241,095 ----------- ----------- ---------- Cash Flows From Investing Activities: Proceeds from sale of equipment 120 500 5,366 Purchases of property and equipment (36,441) (24,711) (45,880) ---------- ----------- ---------- Net Cash Used by Investing Activities (36,321) (24,211) (40,514) ---------- ----------- ---------- Cash Flows From Financing Activities: Distributions paid to limited partners (148,525) - - Payments on notes payable - (153,456) (285,134) -------------- ----------- --------- Net Cash Used by Financing Activities (148,525) (153,456) (285,134) ----------- ----------- --------- Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Temporary Investments 107,433 (30,772) (84,553) Cash and Temporary Investments: Beginning of year 254,782 285,554 370,107 ----------- ----------- --------- End of Year $ 362,215 $ 254,782 $285,554 ========== ========== ======== See accompanying notes to financial statements. F-5 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued) Years Ended December 31: 1997 1996 1995 ---------- ---------- ------- Reconciliation of Net Income to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities: Net income $117,093 $ 1,116 $ 68,750 -------- --------- -------- Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 151,769 162,569 164,599 (Gain) loss on disposition of property and equipment 743 (500) 433 Decrease in accounts receivable (32,070) 4,710 13,058 (Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses 2,112 247 (866) Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities 43,648 (23,012) 3,033 Increase (decrease) in due to related parties 8,984 1,765 (7,912) --------- --------- ---------- Total Adjustments 175,186 145,779 172,345 -------- -------- -------- Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $292,279 $146,895 $241,095 ======== ======== ======== See accompanying notes to financial statements. F-6 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 1 - THE PARTNERSHIP Super 8 Motels III, Ltd. is a limited partnership organized under California law on June 2, 1980 to acquire and operate motel properties in San Bernardino and Bakersfield, California. The term of the Partnership expires December 31, 2030, and may be dissolved earlier under certain circumstances. The San Bernardino motel was opened in March, 1982, and the Bakersfield motel was opened in September, 1982. The Partnership grants credit to customers, substantially all of which are local businesses in San Bernardino or Bakersfield. The general partner is Grotewohl Management Services, Inc., the fifty percent stockholder and officer of which is Philip B. Grotewohl. The net income or net loss of the Partnership is allocated 1% to the General Partner and 99% to the Limited Partners. Net income and distributions per Partnership unit are based on 5,941 units outstanding. All Partnership units are owned by the Limited Partners. The Partnership agreement requires that the Partnership maintain working capital reserves for normal repairs, replacements, working capital and contingencies in an amount of at least 5% of adjusted capital contributions ($297,050 at December 31, 1997). As of December 31, 1997 the Partnership had working capital of $355,211. NOTE 2 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Items of Partnership income are passed through to the individual partners for income tax purposes, along with any income tax credits. Therefore, no federal or California income taxes are provided for in the financial statements of the Partnership. At December 31, 1997, assets and liabilities on a tax basis were approximately $1,000,000 lower than on a book basis due to accelerated depreciation methods used for tax purposes. Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation and amortization are computed using the following estimated useful lives and methods: Description Methods Useful Lives ----------- ------- ------------ Capital improvements 150-200% declining balance 10-20 years Buildings Straight-line and 10-25 years 150% declining balance Furniture and equipment 200% declining balance 4-7 years Costs incurred in connection with maintenance and repair are charged to expense. Major renewals and betterments that materially prolong the lives of assets are capitalized. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates. F-7 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) NOTE 3 - CASH AND TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS Cash and temporary investments as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 consists of the following: 1997 1996 -------- ------ Cash in bank $ 44,675 $ 43,305 Money market accounts 317,540 211,477 --------- --------- Total Cash and Temporary Investments $362,215 $254,782 ======== ======== Temporary investments are recorded at cost, which approximates market value. The Partnership considers temporary investments and all highly liquid marketable securities with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents for purposes of the statement of cash flows. NOTE 4 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Franchise Fees Super 8 Motels, Inc., now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hospitality Franchise Systems, Inc., is franchisor of all Super 8 Motels. The Partnership pays to the franchisor monthly fees equal to 4% of the gross room revenues of each motel and contributes an additional 1% of its gross room revenues to an advertising fund administered by the franchisor. In return, the franchisor provides the right to use the name "Super 8," a national institutional advertising program, an advance room reservation system, and inspection services. These costs ($79,610, $73,242 and $76,337 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively) are included in motel operations expense in the accompanying statements of operations. The Partnership operates its motel properties as a franchisee of Super 8 Motels, Inc., through a sub-franchise agreement with Brown & Grotewohl, a California general partnership, of which Grotewohl Management Services, Inc. (see Note 1) is a 50% owner. Under the sub-franchise agreement, Brown & Grotewohl earned 40% of the above franchise fees, which amounted to $31,844, $29,297 and $30,535 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Property Management Fees The General Partner, or its affiliates, handles the management of the motel properties of the Partnership. The fee for this service is 5% of the gross revenues from Partnership operations, as defined in the Partnership agreement, and amounted to $81,437, $75,044 and $78,041 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Subordinated Partnership Management Fees During the Partnership's operational stage, the General Partner is to receive 9% of cash available for distributions for Partnership management services, along with an additional 1% of cash available for distributions on account of its interest in the profit and losses subordinated in each case, however, to receipt by the Limited Partners of a 10% per annum cumulative pre-tax return on their adjusted capital contributions. At December 31, 1997, the Limited Partners had not received the 10% cumulative return, and accordingly, no Partnership management fees are presently payable and therefore are not reflected in these financial statements. Management believes it is not likely that these fees will become payable in the future. This fee is payable only from cash funds provided from operations of the Partnership, and may not be paid from the proceeds of sale or a refinancing. As of December 31, 1997, the cumulative amount of these fees was $438,290. F-8 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) NOTE 4 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Continued) Subordinated Incentive Distributions Under the terms of the Partnership agreement, the General Partner is to receive 15% of distributions of net proceeds from the sale or refinancing of Partnership properties remaining after distribution to the Limited Partners of any portion thereof required to cause distributions to the Limited Partners from all sources to be equal to their capital contributions plus a cumulative 10% per annum pre-tax return on their adjusted capital contributions. Through December 31, 1997, there had been no such sales or refinancings. Administrative Expenses Shared by the Partnership and Its Affiliates There are certain administrative expenses allocated between the Partnership and other partnerships managed by the General Partner and its affiliates. These expenses, which are allocated based on usage are telephone, data processing, rent of the administrative office, and administrative salaries. The administrative expenses allocated to the Partnership were approximately $230,000, $225,000 and $223,000 during the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, and are included in general and administrative and motel operating expenses in the accompanying statements of operations. Included in administrative salaries are allocated amounts paid to two employees who are related to Philip B. Grotewohl, the fifty percent stockholder of Grotewohl Management Services, Inc., the General Partner. NOTE 5 - MOTEL OPERATING EXPENSES The following table summarizes the major components of motel operating costs for the following years: 1997 1996 1995 ---------- ---------- ------- Salaries and related costs $ 454,635 $ 447,181 $ 441,334 Franchise and advertising fees 79,610 73,242 76,337 Utilities 111,274 111,366 121,969 Allocated costs, mainly indirect salaries 186,004 184,064 181,607 Renovations and replacements 30,280 46,007 35,740 Other operating expenses 302,309 327,434 317,488 ----------- ----------- ----------- Total motel operating expenses $1,164,112 $1,189,294 $1,174,475 ========== ========== ========== F-9 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) NOTE 6 - CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK The Partnership maintains its cash accounts in four commercial banks located in California. Accounts at each bank are guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) up to $100,000 per bank. A summary of the total insured and uninsured cash balances (not reduced by outstanding checks) as of December 31, 1997 follows: Total cash in all California banks $406,606 Portion insured by the FDIC (359,665) ------- Uninsured cash balances $ 46,941 ======== NOTE 7 - FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS The carrying amount of cash and temporary investments approximates fair value because of the short-term maturity of those investments. NOTE 8 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AND SUBSEQUENT EVENT On October 27, 1997, a complaint was filed in the United States District Court by the General Partner naming as defendants Everest/Madison Investors, LLC, Everest Lodging Investors, LLC, Everest Properties II, LLC, Everest Properties, Inc., W. Robert Kohorst, David I. Lesser, The Blackacre Capital Group, L.P., Blackacre Capital Management Corp., Jeffrey B. Citron, Ronald J. Kravit, and Stephen P. Enquist. The complaint alleged that the defendants violated certain provisions of the Security and Exchange Act of 1934 and sought injunctive and declarative relief. On October 28, 1997, a complaint was filed in the Superior Court of the State of California, Sacramento County by Everest Lodging Investors, LLC and Everest/Madison Investors, LLC as plaintiffs against the General Partners of the Partnership and four other partnerships which have common general partners as nominal defendants. The complaint pertained to the receipt by the defendants of franchise fees and reimbursement of expenses, the indications of interest made by the plaintiffs in purchasing the properties of the nominal defendants, and the alleged refusal of the defendants to provide information required by the terms of the Partnership's partnership agreement and California law. On February 20, 1998, the parties entered into a settlement agreement and both of the above complaints were dismissed. Pursuant to the terms of the settlement agreement, the General Partner has agreed to proceed with the marketing for sale of the properties of the Partnerships, among other things, if by June 30, 1998, it receives an offer to purchase one or more properties for a cash price equal to 75% or more of the appraised value. In addition, the General Partner has agreed to submit the offer for approval to the limited partners as required by the partnership agreements and applicable law. The General Partner has also agreed that upon the sale of one or more properties, to distribute promptly the proceeds of the sale after payment of payables and retention of reserves to pay anticipated expenses. The Everest Defendants agreed not to generally solicit the acquisition of any additional units of the Partnerships without first filing necessary documents with the SEC. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, the Partnerships have agreed to reimburse the Everest Defendants for certain costs not to exceed $60,000, to be allocated among the Partnerships. Of this amount, the Partnership will pay approximately $12,000 during the year ended December 31, 1998. F-10 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) Balance Sheet March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997 3/31/98 12/31/97 ----------------- --------------------- ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and temporary investments $ 374,860 $ 362,215 Accounts receivable 123,430 100,184 Prepaid expenses 523 9,229 ----------------- --------------------- Total current assets 498,813 471,628 ----------------- --------------------- Property and Equipment: Land 1,670,129 1,670,129 Capital improvements 26,175 26,175 Buildings 3,276,870 3,276,870 Furniture and equipment 789,579 782,439 ----------------- --------------------- 5,762,753 5,755,613 Accumulated depreciation (3,003,882) (2,968,172) ----------------- --------------------- Property and equipment, net 2,758,871 2,787,441 ----------------- --------------------- Total Assets $ 3,257,684 $ 3,259,069 ================= ===================== LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 153,934 116,417 ----------------- --------------------- Total current liabilities 153,934 116,417 ----------------- --------------------- Total liabilities 153,934 116,417 ----------------- --------------------- Contingent Liabilities (See Note 1) Partners' Equity: General Partners 20,730 20,376 Limited Partners 3,083,020 3,122,276 ----------------- --------------------- Total partners' equity 3,103,750 3,142,652 ----------------- --------------------- Total Liabilities and Partners' Equity $ 3,257,684 $ 3,259,069 ================= ===================== UNAUDITED The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. F-11 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) Statement of Operations For the three Months Ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 Three Months Three Months Ended Ended 3/31/98 3/31/97 ----------------- --------------------- Income: Guest room $ 409,194 $ 403,295 Telephone and vending 7,241 8,408 Interest 2,615 1,362 Other 820 919 ----------------- --------------------- Total Income 419,870 413,984 ----------------- --------------------- Expenses: Motel operating expenses (Note 2) 278,553 279,414 General and administrative 49,383 22,461 Depreciation and amortization 35,710 38,576 Property management fees 20,863 20,646 ----------------- --------------------- Total Expenses 384,509 361,097 ----------------- --------------------- Net Income (Loss) $ 35,361 $ 52,887 ================= ===================== Net Income (Loss) Allocable to General Partners $354 $529 ================= ===================== Net Income (Loss) Allocable to Limited Partners $35,007 $52,358 ================= ===================== Net Income (Loss) per Partnership Unit $5.89 $8.81 ================= ===================== Distribution to Limited Partners per Partnership Unit $12.50 $0.00 ================= ===================== UNAUDITED The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. F-12 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) Statement of Partners' Equity For the three Months Ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 1997 1997 ----------------- --------------------- General Partners: Balance at beginning of year $ 20,376 $ 19,205 Net income (loss) 354 529 ----------------- --------------------- Balance at end of period 20,730 19,734 ----------------- --------------------- Limited Partners: Balance at beginning of year 3,122,276 3,154,879 Net income (loss) 35,007 52,358 Less: Cash distributions (74,263) - ----------------- --------------------- Balance at end of period 3,083,020 3,207,237 ----------------- --------------------- Total balance at end of period $ 3,103,750 $ 3,226,971 ================= ===================== UNAUDITED The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. F-13 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) Statement of Cash Flows For the three Months Ended March 31, 1998 and 1997 1998 1997 ----------------- --------------------- Cash Flows From Operating Activities: Received from motel revenues $ 394,009 $ 410,194 Expended for motel operations and general and administrative expenses (302,576) (282,831) Interest received 2,615 1,362 ----------------- --------------------- Net cash provided (used) by operating activities 94,048 128,725 ----------------- --------------------- Cash Flows From Investing Activities: Purchases of property and equipment (7,140) - Proceeds from sale of equipment - 120 ----------------- --------------------- Net cash provided (used) by investing activities (7,140) 120 ----------------- --------------------- Cash Flows From Financing Activities: Distributions paid to Limited Partners (74,263) - ----------------- --------------------- Net cash provided (used) by financing activities (74,263) - ----------------- --------------------- Net increase in cash and temporary investments 12,645 128,845 Cash and temporary investments: Beginning of year 362,215 254,782 ================= ===================== End of period $ 374,860 $ 383,627 ================= ===================== Reconciliation of Net Income to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities: Net income (loss) $ 35,361 $ 52,887 ----------------- --------------------- Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 35,710 38,576 Gain on disposition of property - (120) (Increase) decrease in accounts receivable (23,246) (2,428) (Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses 8,706 9,239 Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities 37,517 30,571 ----------------- --------------------- Total adjustments 58,687 75,838 ----------------- --------------------- Net cash provided by operating activities $ 94,048 $ 128,725 ================= ===================== UNAUDITED The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. F-14 SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD. (A California Limited Partnership) Notes to Financial Statements March 31, 1998 Note 1: The attached interim financial statements include all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to a fair statement of the results for the period presented. Users of these interim financial statements should refer to the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 1997 for a complete disclosure of significant accounting policies and practices and other detail necessary for a fair presentation of the financial statements. In accordance with the partnership agreement, the following information is presented related to fees paid or accrued to the General Partner or affiliates for the period. Property Management Fees $20,863 Franchise Fees $8,184 Note 2: The following table summarizes the major components of motel operating expenses for the periods reported: Three Months Three Months Ended Ended 3/31/98 3/31/97 ----------------- --------------------- Salaries and related costs $ 115,284 $ 109,729 Franchise and advertising 20,460 20,171 Utilities 21,235 22,665 Allocated costs, mainly indirect salaries 49,761 44,110 Replacements and renovations 5,950 12,040 Other operating expenses 65,863 70,699 ----------------- --------------------- Total motel operating expenses $ 278,553 $ 279,414 ================= ===================== The following additional material contingencies are required to be restated in interim reports under federal securities law: None. F-15 APPENDIX 1 REVISED PRELIMINARY COPY SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD., a California limited partnership ___________________________ Notice of Proposed Action By Written Consent TO THE LIMITED PARTNERS OF SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD.: The Limited Partners of SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD., a California limited partnership (the "Partnership"), are being asked by the Partnership and the General Partner to consider and approve by written consent the proposed sale of substantially all of the Partnership's assets. The Limited Partners of the Partnership are entitled to vote on the proposal by completing, executing and returning to the Partnership the enclosed form of Action by Written Consent of Limited Partners. PLEASE FILL IN, DATE AND SIGN THE ENCLOSED POSTPAID CONSENT CARD AND RETURN IT PROMPTLY. ONLY CONSENTS RECEIVED ON OR BEFORE AUGUST___, 1998 (UNLESS EXTENDED BY THE GENERAL PARTNER PURSUANT TO NOTICE MAILED TO THE LIMITED PARTNERS) WILL BE COUNTED TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE PROPOSAL IS APPROVED. July ___, 1998 Grotewohl Management Services, Inc., a California corporation, General Partner APPENDIX 2 REVISED PRELIMINARY COPY ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT OF LIMITED PARTNERS SUPER 8 MOTELS III, LTD., a California limited partnership 2030 J Street Sacramento, California 95814 (916) 442-9183 THIS CONSENT IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE PARTNERSHIP AND THE GENERAL PARTNER. The undersigned votes all the units of limited partnership interest of Super 8 Motels III, Ltd., a California limited partnership, held of record by him, her or it as follows: PROPOSAL TO APPROVE THE SALE OF SUBSTANTIALLY ALL OF THE PARTNERSHIP'S ASSETS, as described in the Information Statement dated July ___, 1998. Please mark one of the following: FOR [ ] AGAINST [ ] ABSTAIN [ ] This Consent, when properly executed and returned to the Partnership, will be voted in the manner directed herein by the undersigned limited partner. IF NO DIRECTION IS MADE, THIS CONSENT, IF SO EXECUTED AND RETURNED, WILL BE VOTED FOR THE PROPOSAL SET FORTH ABOVE. Please sign exactly as name appears below: When Units are held by joint tenants, both should sign. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If a corporation, please sign in full corporate name by president or other authorized officer. If a partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person. DATED: ________________, 1998 __________________________________ Signature __________________________________ Additional signature, if held jointly