STRATUS PROPERTIES INC

Previous wording

This report contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States (U.S.) federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements are all statements other than statements of historical fact, such as plans, projections or expectations. For additional information, refer to “Cautionary Statement” in Items 7. and 7A. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Current wording

This report contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States (U.S.) federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements are all statements other than statements of historical fact, such as plans, projections or expectations. For additional information, refer to “Cautionary Statement” in MD&A.

Previous wording

We cannot assure you that our current business strategy will be successful. For a description of our current business strategy, refer to “Business Strategy” in MD&A. Results of the past sales of our properties are not indicative of results of future sales. The timing of property sales and proceeds from such sales are difficult to predict and depend on market conditions and other factors. Our ability to generate revenue in our leasing operations depends on our ability to successfully develop new projects and our ability to obtain attractive rental and occupancy rates on existing and new projects. Austin, our primary market, has experienced significant growth in demand for residential projects in recent years, particularly during 2020 and 2021 related in part to COVID-19 pandemic-influenced in-migration; however, prices and demand for residential real estate in the Austin area have generally moderated and in some submarkets declined. In addition, we have faced challenging market conditions in recent periods due to high interest rates, tightened bank credit and high inflation, among other things. During 2023, we made operating loans totaling $3.3 million to two of our joint ventures to pay costs that were higher than anticipated and in first-quarter 2024, we made operating loans totaling $2.7 million to two of our joint ventures to pay costs that were higher than anticipated. We anticipate making future operating loans to three of our joint ventures totaling up to $3.8 million over the next 12 months. Our estimates of future operating loans are based on estimates of future costs of the partnerships and anticipated future operating loans from the Class B limited partners of approximately $2.5 million. Our development plans for our undeveloped land and land under development may change over time, including as a result of changes in real estate market conditions, economic conditions, the cost and availability of capital and changes in laws, such as changes resulting from Texas Senate Bill 2038 enacted in 2023, discussed further below.

Current wording

We cannot assure you that our current business strategy will be successful. For a description of our current business strategy, refer to “Business Strategy” in MD&A. Our long-term success will depend on our ability to profitably execute our development plans over time. Austin, our primary market, has experienced significant growth in demand for residential projects during 2020 and 2021 and peaking in 2022 related in part to COVID-19 pandemic-influenced in-migration. However, more recently, prices and demand for residential real estate in the Austin area have generally declined from that peak. We also have faced challenging market conditions in recent years, including as a result of high inflation and interest rates. Furthermore, our development plans for our undeveloped land and land under development may change over time, including as a result of changes in real estate market conditions, economic conditions, the cost and availability of capital and changes in laws, such as changes resulting from Texas Senate Bill 2038 (the ETJ Law) enacted in 2023, discussed further below.

Previous wording

Our development plans for future projects require significant additional debt and equity capital. We have increasingly raised equity capital from third parties through joint venture structures, which have their own risks. We may not be able to obtain the funding necessary to implement our business strategy on acceptable terms or at all. Furthermore, our business strategy may not produce sufficient revenues even if we are able to obtain the necessary capital. Due to the nature of our development-focused business, we do not expect to generate sufficient recurring cash flow to cover our general and administrative expenses each period. Our long-term success will depend on our ability to profitably execute our development plans over time.

Current wording

We may not be able to obtain the capital necessary to implement our business strategy on acceptable terms or at all. Our development plans for future projects require significant additional debt and equity capital. We have increasingly raised equity capital from third parties through joint venture structures, which, as discussed below, have their own risks. Even if we are able to obtain the necessary capital, our business strategy may not produce sufficient revenues, profits and cash flows. In addition, our ability to generate revenue in our leasing operations depends on our ability to successfully develop new projects and our ability to obtain attractive rental and occupancy rates on existing and new projects.

Previous wording

Inflation, higher borrowing costs, tightened bank credit, more limited availability of equity capital, increased construction and labor costs and supply chain constraints have had an adverse impact on us and may continue to do so.

Current wording

Inflation, higher borrowing costs, tightened bank credit, more limited availability of equity capital, increased construction costs, higher labor costs, labor shortages and supply chain constraints have had an adverse impact on us and may continue to do so.

Previous wording

Our industry has been experiencing inflation, higher borrowing costs, tightened bank credit, more limited availability of equity capital, increased construction costs, higher labor costs, labor shortages, and supply chain constraints. Inflation in the U.S. increased rapidly during 2021 through June 2022. Since June 2022, the rate of inflation generally has declined; however, it has remained at high levels compared to recent historical periods. In response, the Federal Reserve raised the federal funds target rate multiple times from March 2022 through July 2023, by 525 basis points on a cumulative basis. These factors have increased our costs, adversely impacted the projected profitability of our new projects, delayed the start of or completion of projects, adversely impacted our ability to raise equity capital on attractive terms and in our desired time frame and adversely impacted our ability to sell some properties at attractive prices in our desired time frame; these trends may continue or worsen.

Current wording

Our industry has been experiencing inflation, higher borrowing costs, tightened bank credit, more limited availability of equity capital, increased construction costs, higher labor costs, labor shortages, and supply chain constraints. Inflation increased rapidly during 2021 through June 2022. Since June 2022, the rate of inflation generally has declined; however, it began increasing in the later part of 2024 and has generally remained higher than the Federal Reserve’s target rate of inflation of two percent. The Federal Reserve raised the federal funds target rate multiple times from March 2022 through July 2023, by 525 basis points on a cumulative basis. Between September 2024 and December 2024, the Federal Reserve lowered the federal funds target rate by 100 basis points on a cumulative basis. Elevated inflation and interest rates have increased our costs, adversely impacted the projected profitability of our new projects, delayed the start of or completion of projects, adversely impacted our ability to raise equity capital on attractive terms and in our desired time frame and adversely impacted our ability to sell some properties at attractive prices in our desired time frame; and elevated inflation and interest rates may continue or worsen. Further, additional changes in U.S. trade policies, including the imposition of or increase in tariffs as have recently been imposed or threatened by the current Presidential administration, and retaliatory responses from other countries, could increase our costs or limit the availability of materials used in our development projects. For example, the administration has announced that it is considering tariffs on lumber imports, which could have a material adverse effect on the availability of lumber and on our construction costs, at least in the short term.

Previous wording

On completed projects, we have experienced increased borrowing costs on our variable rate debt due to higher interest rates and increased operating costs due to inflation. As of December 31, 2023, all of our consolidated debt was variable rate debt. For all such debt, the average interest rate increased for 2023 compared to 2022 and may continue to rise in the future if prevailing market interest rates rise. Refer to Note 6 for additional information. Further increases in interest rates would further increase our interest costs and the costs of refinancing existing debt or incurring new debt, which would adversely affect our profits and cash flow. Our operating expenses impacted by inflation include contracted services for our properties such as janitorial and engineering services, utilities, repairs and maintenance and insurance. Inflation may cause the value of our properties to rise, which could lead to higher property taxes. Our general and administrative expenses include compensation costs, professional fees and technology services, all of which may continue to increase due to inflation.

Current wording

On completed projects, we have experienced increased borrowing costs on our variable rate debt due to higher interest rates and increased operating costs due to inflation. As of December 31, 2024, all of our consolidated debt was variable rate debt. For all such debt, the average interest rate increased for 2024 compared to 2023, but began to stabilize toward the end of 2024. Interest costs remain elevated and may rise in the future if prevailing market interest rates rise again. We typically do not hedge against changes in interest rates, except that we entered into an interest rate cap agreements for our Kingwood Place and Jones Crossing loans refinanced in November 2024 and March 2025, respectively, as required by the lender. Refer to Note 6 for additional information. Future increases in interest rates would further increase our interest costs and the costs of refinancing existing debt or incurring new debt, which would adversely affect our profits and cash flow. Our operating expenses impacted by inflation include contracted services for our properties such as janitorial and engineering services, utilities, repairs and maintenance and insurance. In addition, inflation may continue to cause the value of our properties to rise, which has resulted in higher property taxes and could lead to future increases. Our general and administrative expenses include compensation costs, professional fees and technology services, all of which may continue to increase due to inflation.

Previous wording

Inflation and higher interest rates may also adversely impact a potential buyer’s ability to obtain financing on favorable terms, decreasing demand for the purchase of our properties and lowering their market value. High inflation could have a negative impact on our tenants’ ability to pay rent or absorb rent increases. In addition, rising costs and delays in delivery of materials may increase the risk of default by contractors and subcontractors on ongoing construction projects.

Current wording

Inflation and higher interest rates may also adversely impact a potential buyer’s ability to obtain financing on favorable terms, decreasing demand for the purchase of our properties and lowering their market value. High inflation could have a negative impact on our tenants’ ability to pay rent or absorb rent increases. In addition, rising costs and delays in delivery of materials may increase the risk of default by contractors and subcontractors on ongoing construction projects. Also, as discussed elsewhere in this report, higher costs and project delays have required us to make operating loans and a capital contribution to some of our joint ventures and we expect to make additional operating loans and capital contributions during the next 12 months.

Previous wording

Our business may be adversely affected by periods of economic uncertainty, economic weakness or recession, declining employment levels, declining consumer confidence and spending, declining access to capital, geopolitical instability, or the public’s perception that any of these events or conditions may occur, be present or worsen. Our business is especially sensitive to economic conditions in the Austin, Texas area, where the majority of our properties are located. As discussed elsewhere in this report, our business was adversely impacted during 2022 and 2023 by rising inflation and interest rates and other adverse economic conditions. Further, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine beginning in February 2022 and the war in Israel and surrounding areas beginning in the fourth quarter of 2023 have adversely affected global stability.

Current wording

Our business may be adversely affected by periods of economic uncertainty, economic weakness or recession, declining employment levels, declining consumer confidence and spending, declining access to capital, geopolitical instability, or the public’s perception that any of these events or conditions may occur, be present or worsen. Our business is especially sensitive to economic conditions in the Austin, Texas area, where the majority of our properties are located. As discussed elsewhere in this report, our business has been adversely impacted since 2022 through early 2025 by inflation and elevated interest rates and other adverse economic conditions.

Previous wording

We are vulnerable to concentration risks because our operations are primarily located in the Austin, Texas area and are primarily focused on residential, residential-centric mixed-use, and retail real estate.

Current wording

We are vulnerable to concentration risks because our operations are primarily located in the Austin, Texas area and are focused on pure residential and residential-centric mixed-use real estate.

Previous wording

As a result of our focus on residential, residential-centric mixed-use, and retail projects in Austin, we may be exposed to greater risks than if our investment focus was based on more diversified types of properties. Weakening in the Austin residential market generally makes it more difficult for us to sell our residential properties at attractive prices or to rent our properties at attractive rents. Weakening in the Austin residential market may also adversely impact the demand for retail projects, as may any other trends that cause consumers not to shop at retail locations. Refer to “Overview of Financial Results for 2023 – Real Estate Market Conditions” in Part II, Items 7. and 7A. for more information.

Current wording

As a result of our focus on pure residential and residential-centric mixed-use projects, we may be exposed to greater risks than if our investment focus was based on more diversified types of properties. Weakening in the Austin residential market generally makes it more difficult for us to sell our residential properties at attractive prices or to rent our properties at attractive rents. Weakening in the Austin residential market may also adversely impact the demand for our retail projects, as may any other trends that cause consumers not to shop at retail locations. Refer to “Overview of Financial Results for 2024 – Real Estate Market Conditions” in MD&A for more information.

Previous wording

Our industry is capital-intensive and requires significant up-front expenditures to secure land and pursue development and construction. We have relied on proceeds from property sales and debt financing and cash flow from operations as our primary sources of funding. We have also relied on third-party project-level equity financing of our subsidiaries, which we expect to continue to increase in the future. Our ability to raise additional capital in the future will depend on conditions in the equity and debt markets, general economic and real estate conditions and our financial condition, performance and prospects, among other factors, many of which are not within our control. We may not be able to raise additional capital on acceptable terms if at all. Costs of debt and equity capital increased substantially during 2022 and 2023 and may continue to be high or increase. Any inability to raise additional capital on acceptable terms when needed for existing or future projects could delay or terminate future projects, hinder our ability to complete projects, and prevent us from refinancing debt obligations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our industry is capital-intensive and requires significant up-front expenditures to secure land and pursue development and construction. We have relied on proceeds from property sales and debt financing and cash flow from operations as our primary sources of funding. We have also relied on third-party project-level equity financing of our subsidiaries, which we expect to continue to seek in the future. Our ability to raise additional capital in the future will depend on conditions in the equity and debt markets, general economic and real estate conditions and our financial condition, performance and prospects, among other factors, many of which are not within our control. We may not be able to raise additional capital on acceptable terms if at all. Any inability to raise additional capital on acceptable terms when needed for existing or future projects could delay or terminate future projects, hinder our ability to complete projects, and prevent us from refinancing debt obligations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

We have formed strategic relationships with key tenants as part of our overall strategy for particular retail and mixed-use development projects and may enter into other similar arrangements in the future. For example, our West Killeen Market, Jones Crossing, Kingwood Place and Magnolia Place mixed-use development projects are each anchored by an H-E-B grocery store. Any deterioration in our relationship with H-E-B or our inability to form and retain strategic relationships with key tenants or enter into other similar arrangements in the future could adversely affect our business. If we are unable to renew a lease we have with a key tenant at one of our properties, or to re-lease the space to another key tenant of similar or better quality, we could experience material adverse consequences with respect to such property, such as a higher vacancy rate, less favorable leasing terms, reduced cash flow and reduced property values. Similarly, if one or more of our key tenants becomes insolvent or enters into bankruptcy proceedings, our business could be materially adversely impacted.

Current wording

We have formed strategic relationships with key tenants as part of our overall strategy for particular retail and mixed-use development projects and may enter into other similar arrangements in the future. Our inability to form and retain strategic relationships with key tenants could adversely affect our business. If we are unable to renew a lease we have with a key tenant at one of our properties, or to re-lease the space to another key tenant of similar or better quality, we could experience material adverse consequences with respect to such property, such as a higher vacancy rate, less favorable leasing terms, reduced cash flow and reduced property values. Similarly, if one or more of our key tenants becomes insolvent or enters into bankruptcy proceedings, our business could be materially adversely impacted.

Previous wording

We have increased our use of third-party equity financing of our subsidiaries’ development projects. We expect to continue to fund development projects through the use of such joint ventures. Joint ventures involve risks not present with our wholly-owned properties, including but not limited to, the possibility the other joint venture partners may possess the ability to take or force action contrary to our interests or withhold consent contrary to our requests, have business goals which are or become inconsistent with ours, or default on their financial obligations to the joint venture, which may require us to fulfill the joint venture’s financial obligations as a legal or practical matter. We and our joint venture partners may each have the right to initiate a buy-sell arrangement, which could cause us to sell our interest, or acquire a joint venture partner’s interest, at a time when we otherwise would not have entered into such a transaction. In addition, a sale or transfer by us to a third party of our interests in the joint venture may be subject to consent rights or rights of first refusal in favor of our partners which would restrict our ability to dispose of our interest in the joint venture. Each joint venture agreement is individually negotiated, and our ability to operate, finance, or dispose of a joint venture project in our sole discretion is limited to varying degrees depending on the terms of the applicable joint venture agreement. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion of our investments in joint ventures.

Current wording

We have continued our use of third-party equity financing of our subsidiaries’ development projects. We expect to continue to fund development projects through the use of such joint ventures. Joint ventures involve risks not present with our wholly-owned properties, including but not limited to, the possibility the other joint venture partners may possess the ability to take or force action contrary to our interests or withhold consent contrary to our requests, have business goals which are or become inconsistent with ours, or default on their financial obligations to the joint venture, which may require us to fulfill the joint venture’s financial obligations as a legal or practical matter. We and our joint venture partners may each have the right to initiate a buy-sell arrangement, which could cause us to sell our interest, or acquire a joint venture partner’s interest, at a time when we otherwise would not have entered into such a transaction. In addition, a sale or transfer by us to a third party of our interests in the joint venture may be subject to consent rights or rights of first refusal in favor of our partners which would restrict our ability to dispose of our interest in the joint venture. Each joint venture agreement is individually negotiated, and our ability to operate, finance, or dispose of a joint venture project in our sole discretion is limited to varying degrees depending on the terms of the applicable joint venture agreement. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion of our investments in joint ventures.

Previous wording

Many of our business processes and records depend on information systems to conduct day-to-day operations and lower costs, and therefore, we are vulnerable to the increasing threat of information system disruptions and cybersecurity incidents. We also utilize the services of a number of independent contractors, such as general construction contractors, engineers, architects, leasing agents, property managers, technology service providers and attorneys, whose businesses are also vulnerable to the increasing threat of cybersecurity incidents and other information system disruptions. These risks include, but are not limited to, installation of malicious software, phishing, ransomware, credential attacks, unauthorized access to data and other cybersecurity incidents that could lead to disruptions in information systems, unauthorized release of confidential or otherwise protected information, employee theft or misuse of confidential or otherwise protected information and the corruption of data. Increased use of remote work and virtual platforms may increase our risk of cybersecurity incidents. Our information systems and those of our contractors are also vulnerable to damage or interruption from fire, floods, power loss, telecommunications failures, computer viruses, break-ins and similar events. A significant theft, loss, loss of access to, or fraudulent use of employee, tenant or other company data could adversely impact our reputation and could result in a loss of business, as well as remedial and other expenses, fines and litigation. There can be no assurance that our security efforts and measures and those of our independent contractors will be effective.

Current wording

Many of our business processes and records depend on information systems to conduct day-to-day operations and lower costs, and therefore, we are vulnerable to the increasing threat of information system disruptions and cybersecurity incidents. We also utilize the services of a number of independent contractors, such as general construction contractors, engineers, architects, leasing agents, property managers, technology service providers and attorneys, whose businesses are also vulnerable to the increasing threat of cybersecurity incidents and other information system disruptions. These risks include, but are not limited to, installation of malicious software, phishing, ransomware, credential attacks, unauthorized access to data and other cybersecurity incidents, including those that use artificial intelligence and quantum computing, that could lead to disruptions in information systems, unauthorized release of confidential or otherwise protected information, employee theft or misuse of confidential or otherwise protected information and the corruption of data. Increased use of remote work and virtual platforms may increase our risk of cybersecurity incidents. Our information systems and those of our contractors are also vulnerable to damage or interruption from fire, floods, power loss, telecommunications failures, computer viruses, break-ins and similar events. A significant theft, loss, loss of access to, or fraudulent use of employee, tenant or other company data could adversely impact our reputation and could result in a loss of business, as well as remedial and other expenses, fines and litigation. There can be no assurance that our security efforts and measures and those of our independent contractors will be effective.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our outstanding debt totaled $175.2 million and our cash and cash equivalents totaled $31.4 million. As of March 25, 2024, principal payments due on outstanding debt during 2024 total $68.0 million. We estimate our interest payments during 2024 will total approximately $13.6 million, assuming interest rates in effect on our debt at December 31, 2023, no new debt agreements, and completed or scheduled principal payments as of March 25, 2024 on debt outstanding at December 31, 2023. Except for our Comerica Bank revolving credit facility, all of our loans are project-level loans. Our project loans are generally secured by all or substantially all of the assets of the project, and our Comerica Bank revolving credit facility is secured by substantially all of our assets other than those encumbered by separate project-level financing. Stratus, as the parent company, is typically required to guarantee the payment of the project loans, in some cases until certain development milestones and/or financial conditions are met, in some cases on a full recourse basis and in other cases on a more limited recourse basis. As of December 31, 2023, Stratus, as the parent company, guaranteed the payment of all of the project loans, except for the Jones Crossing loan and Lantana Place construction loan. In addition, as described elsewhere in this report, as of December 31, 2023, all of our consolidated debt was variable rate debt, and interest due on such debt rises as interest rates rise. Refer to Note 6 for additional discussion.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our outstanding debt totaled $194.9 million and our cash and cash equivalents totaled $20.2 million. As of March 21, 2025, principal payments due on outstanding debt during 2025 are expected to total $48.9 million. We estimate our interest payments during 2025 will total approximately $12.9 million, assuming interest rates in effect on our debt at December 31, 2024, no new debt agreements, and completed or scheduled principal payments as of March 21, 2025 on debt outstanding at December 31, 2024. Except for our Comerica Bank revolving credit facility, all of our loans are project-level loans. Our project loans are generally secured by all or substantially all of the assets of the project, and our Comerica Bank revolving credit facility is secured by substantially all of our assets other than those encumbered by separate project-level financing. Stratus, as the parent company, is typically required to guarantee the payment of the project loans, in some cases until certain development milestones and/or financial conditions are met, in some cases on a full recourse basis and in other cases on a more limited recourse basis. In addition, as described elsewhere in this report, as of December 31, 2024, all of our consolidated debt was variable rate debt, and interest due on such debt rises as interest rates rise. Refer to Note 6 for additional discussion.

Previous wording

•Place us at a competitive disadvantage to our competitors that have less debt;

Current wording

•Place us at a disadvantage to our competitors that have less debt;

Previous wording

•pay dividends, repurchase equity or make other distributions to equityholders;

Current wording

•pay dividends, repurchase equity or make other distributions to equity holders;

Previous wording

•permit a change of management or control, sell all or substantially all of our assets, or engage in mergers, consolidations or other business combinations. Refer to “Capital Resources and Liquidity” in Part II, Items 7. and 7A. and Note 6 for additional discussion of restrictive covenants in our debt agreements.

Current wording

•permit a change of management or control, sell all or substantially all of our assets, or engage in mergers, consolidations or other business combinations. Refer to “Capital Resources and Liquidity” in MD&A and Note 6 for additional discussion of restrictive covenants in our debt agreements.

Previous wording

In order to maintain compliance with the covenants in our debt agreements and carry out our business plan, we may need to use cash to pay down the principal balance of the loan, contribute additional equity or make an operating loans to a joint venture or raise additional debt or equity capital, including project-level financing of our subsidiaries. Such additional funding may not be available on acceptable terms, if at all, when needed. If new debt is added to our current debt levels, the risks described above could intensify.

Current wording

In order to maintain compliance with the covenants in our debt agreements and carry out our business plan, we may need to use cash to pay down the principal balance of the loan, contribute additional equity or make an operating loan to a joint venture or raise additional debt or equity capital, including project-level financing of our subsidiaries. Such additional funding may not be available on acceptable terms, if at all, when needed. If new debt is added to our current debt levels, the risks described above could intensify.

Previous wording

The U.S. real estate industry is highly cyclical and is affected by global, national and local economic conditions, general employment and income levels, availability of financing, inflation, interest rates, and consumer confidence and spending. As discussed above, our industry was adversely impacted during 2022 and 2023 by rising inflation and interest rates, and rising or high inflation and interest rates may continue in 2024 and beyond. Other factors that may impact real estate businesses include over-building, changes in traffic patterns, changes in demographic trends, changes in tenant and buyer preferences and changes in government requirements, including tax law changes and changes in zoning laws. These factors are outside of our control and may have a material adverse effect on our business, profits and the timing and amounts of our cash flows.

Current wording

The U.S. real estate industry is highly cyclical and is affected by global, national and local economic conditions, general employment and income levels, availability of financing, inflation, interest rates, and consumer confidence and spending. As discussed above, our industry has been adversely impacted since 2022 by elevated inflation and interest rates, and elevated inflation and interest rates may continue in 2025 and beyond. Other factors that may impact real estate businesses include over-building, changes in traffic patterns, changes in demographic trends, changes in tenant and buyer preferences and changes in government requirements, including tax law changes and changes in zoning or land use laws. These factors are outside of our control and may have a material adverse effect on our business, profits and the timing and amounts of our cash flows.

Previous wording

•inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining, entitlements;

Current wording

•inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining, entitlements, permits and development approvals;

Previous wording

We can provide no assurances that we will complete any of the projects in our development portfolio on the anticipated schedule or within the budget, or that, once completed, these properties will achieve the results that we expect. During 2023, we made operating loans totaling $3.3 million to two of our joint ventures to pay costs that were higher than anticipated and in first-quarter 2024, we made operating loans totaling $2.7 million to two of our joint ventures to pay costs that were higher than anticipated. We anticipate making future operating loans to three of our joint ventures totaling up to $3.8 million over the next 12 months. Our estimates of future operating loans are based on estimates of future costs of the partnerships and anticipated future operating loans from the Class B limited partners of approximately $2.5 million. Under our construction loans, advances are typically made in accordance with established budget allocations, and if the lender deems that the undisbursed proceeds of the loan are insufficient to meet the costs of completing the project, the lender may decline to make additional advances until the borrower deposits with the lender sufficient additional funds to cover the deficiency. If the development of our projects is not completed in accordance with our anticipated timing or cost, or the properties fail to achieve the financial results we expect, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and ability to repay our debt, including project-related debt.

Current wording

We can provide no assurances that we will complete any of the projects in our development portfolio on the anticipated schedule or within the budget, or that, once completed, these properties will achieve the results that we expect. During 2023 and 2024, and first-quarter 2025, we made operating loans and a capital contribution to certain of our joint ventures. Refer to Note 2 for further discussion. We anticipate making future operating loans to one of our joint ventures totaling up to $1.7 million over the next 12 months. We also anticipate making an additional capital contribution of $125 thousand to one of our joint ventures over the next 12 months. Under our construction loans, advances are typically made in accordance with established budget allocations, and if the lender deems that the undisbursed proceeds of the loan are insufficient to meet the costs of completing the project, the lender may decline to make additional advances until the borrower deposits with the lender sufficient additional funds to cover the deficiency. If the development of our projects is not completed in accordance with our anticipated timing or cost, or the properties fail to achieve the financial results we expect, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and ability to repay our debt, including project-related debt.

Previous wording

Our Holden Hills project involves the development of a large number of residential lots, which exposes us to risks specific to that business.

Current wording

Holden Hills Phase 1 involves the development of a large number of residential lots, which exposes us to risks specific to that business.

Previous wording

Our Holden Hills project involves the development of a large number of residential lots. Our ability to successfully monetize our investment in developed lots will depend on the availability and cost of financing for purchasers of the lots, for residential construction and for homebuyers, which may be adversely impacted by rising or sustained high interest and mortgage rates. We must dedicate a significant amount of time and capital to construct project infrastructure and amenities over a long period of time before the project may generate revenue. Any delays in the development of the community and sale of properties exposes us to the risk that the market assumptions on which we based our development plans may deteriorate and adversely affect or eliminate potential cash flow and profits.

Current wording

Holden Hills Phase 1 involves the development of a large number of residential lots. Our ability to successfully monetize our investment in developed lots will depend on the availability and cost of financing for purchasers of the lots, for residential construction and for homebuyers, which may be adversely impacted by rising or sustained high interest and mortgage rates. We must dedicate a significant amount of time and capital to construct project infrastructure and amenities over a long period of time before the project may generate revenue. Any delays in the development of the community and sale of properties exposes us to the risk that the market assumptions on which we based our development plans may deteriorate and adversely affect or eliminate potential cash flow and profits.

Previous wording

Litigation challenging Senate Bill 2038 may make valuation of our Holden Hills and Section N projects more difficult and execution of our development plans more complex and costly.

Current wording

Litigation challenging the ETJ Law may make valuation of Holden Hills Phases 1 and 2 more difficult and execution of our development plans more complex and costly.

Previous wording

We have completed the statutory process to remove all of our relevant land subject to development, including primarily Holden Hills and Section N, from the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) of the City of Austin, as permitted under Texas Senate Bill 2038 (the ETJ Law). We have also made filings with Travis County to grandfather the Holden Hills and Section N projects under most laws in effect in Travis County at the time of the filings. Several cities in Texas have brought a lawsuit challenging the ETJ Law, alleging among other things, that it constitutes an unconstitutional delegation of legislative authority to private parties under the Texas constitution.

Current wording

The ETJ Law became effective September 1, 2023. We have completed the statutory process to remove all of our relevant land subject to development, including primarily Holden Hills Phases 1 and 2, from the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) of the City of Austin, as permitted under the ETJ Law. We have also made filings with Travis County to grandfather Holden Hills Phases 1 and 2 under most laws in effect in Travis County at the time of the filings. A number of cities in Texas have brought lawsuits challenging the ETJ Law.

Previous wording

If the ETJ Law is upheld, our projects formerly subject to both the jurisdiction of Travis County and the City of Austin, primarily our Holden Hills and Section N projects, will no longer be subject to the City of Austin regulations applicable in the ETJ. If the ETJ Law is upheld, we expect that the removal of our properties from the ETJ of the City of Austin will streamline the development permitting process, allow greater flexibility in the design of projects, potentially decrease certain development costs, and potentially permit meaningful increases in development density. We believe that the litigation challenging the ETJ Law makes valuation of our Holden Hills and Section N projects more difficult.

Current wording

If the ETJ Law is upheld, our projects formerly subject to both the jurisdiction of Travis County and the City of Austin, primarily Holden Hills Phases 1 and 2, will no longer be subject to the City of Austin regulations applicable in the ETJ. Accordingly, if the ETJ Law is upheld, we expect that the removal of our properties from the ETJ of the City of Austin will streamline the development permitting process, allow greater flexibility in the design of projects, potentially decrease certain development costs, and potentially permit meaningful increases in development density. We believe that the litigation challenging the ETJ Law makes valuation of Holden Hills Phases 1 and 2 more difficult.

Previous wording

In light of the ETJ Law, we have begun work on assessing potential revisions to our development plans. If the litigation is not timely resolved, we may decide to proceed with a revised development plan and incur costs in alignment with the revised plan, subject to the risk that the ETJ law will be invalidated. We may not be able to realize any benefits from the ETJ Law in a time frame and a manner consistent with our plans.

Current wording

In light of the ETJ Law, our development plans for portions of Holden Hills Phases 1 and 2 are being adjusted. We are proceeding with certain revised development plans for portions of Holden Hills Phases 1 and 2 and are incurring costs in alignment with the revised plans, subject to the risk that the ETJ law will be invalidated. We may not be able to realize any benefits from the ETJ Law in a time frame and a manner consistent with our plans.

Previous wording

Real estate is a relatively illiquid asset and its value may be materially adversely affected by a decline in the value of real estate in our markets. It may be difficult for us to sell our real estate quickly if the need or desire arises, at prices or on terms we find acceptable. We are in the process of engaging brokers to explore the sale of our five stabilized retail projects, and no assurance can be given that we will be able to sell these properties at prices or on terms we find acceptable. The relatively illiquid nature of real estate assets may limit our ability to make rapid adjustments in the size and content of our portfolio of assets in response to changes in economic or other conditions, may constrain our ability to pay our debts, and may lead to losses or additional impairment charges. Refer to “Critical Accounting Estimates” in Part II, Items 7. and 7A. for more information.

Current wording

Real estate is a relatively illiquid asset and we may not be able to sell our real estate at times and prices we find desirable. The value of our real estate and our ability to sell our real estate at attractive prices may be materially adversely affected by a decline in the value of real estate in our markets. The valuation of our real estate assets or real estate investments is inherently subjective and based on individual characteristics of each asset. Factors such as market supply and demand, availability of attractive financing for potential buyers, changes in laws and regulations, and political and economic conditions, among others, subject our ability to sell our real estate, and our real estate valuations, to uncertainty. Our valuations are made on the basis of assumptions and/or appraisals that may not be accurate, and which may cause us to reevaluate our assets which could result in write-downs. The relatively illiquid nature of real estate assets may limit our ability to make rapid adjustments in the size and content of our portfolio of assets in response to changes in economic or other conditions, may constrain our ability to pay our debts, and may lead to losses or additional impairment charges. Refer to “Critical Accounting Estimates” in MD&A for more information.

Previous wording

Our operations are subject to environmental regulations, which can change at any time and could increase our costs. Further, increasing climate change concerns may increase our costs.

Current wording

Our operations are subject to environmental regulations, which can change at any time and could increase our costs. Further, changing governmental and societal expectations on environmental, social and governance matters may increase our costs.

Previous wording

From time to time, the Environmental Protection Agency and similar federal, state or local agencies review land developers’ compliance with environmental laws and may levy fines and penalties for failure to strictly comply with applicable environmental laws or impose additional requirements for future compliance as a result of past failures. Any such actions taken with respect to us may increase our costs and result in project delays. We are making, and will continue to make, expenditures with respect to our real estate development for the protection of the environment. New environmental regulations or changes in existing regulations or their enforcement may be enacted and such new regulations or changes may require significant expenditures by us. The recent trend toward stricter standards in environmental legislation and regulations is likely to continue and could have a material adverse effect on our operating costs.

Current wording

From time to time, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and similar federal, state or local agencies review land developers’ compliance with environmental laws and may levy fines and penalties for failure to strictly comply with applicable environmental laws or impose additional requirements for future compliance as a result of past failures. Any such actions taken with respect to us may increase our costs and result in project delays. We are making, and will continue to make, expenditures with respect to our real estate development for the protection of the environment. New environmental regulations or changes in existing regulations or their enforcement may be enacted and such new regulations or changes may require significant expenditures by us. Any stricter standards in environmental legislation and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our operating costs.

Previous wording

Further, regulatory and societal responses intended to reduce potential climate change impacts may increase our costs to develop, operate and maintain our properties, including but not limited to, costs of building materials, energy and utility costs and insurance costs. Increasing governmental and societal focus on environmental, social and governance matters has increased, is controversial, and may continue to increase our costs of assessing and reporting on such matters. If we are unable to adequately address such matters, our reputation and our business could be adversely impacted.

Current wording

Environmental, social and governance matters have been a focus of society and governments in recent years, are controversial and opinions and reactions continue to evolve. Responding to these changes may continue to increase our costs of assessing and reporting on such matters. If we are unable or are perceived to be unable to appropriately address such matters, our reputation and our business could be adversely impacted. Further, regulatory and societal responses intended to reduce potential climate change impacts may increase our costs to develop, operate and maintain our properties, including but not limited to, costs of building materials, energy and utility costs and insurance costs.

Previous wording

In 2022 and 2023, our leasing operations included the lease of retail space to tenants in a variety of businesses at retail and mixed-use properties that we developed. Retail projects that have not yet stabilized may fail to meet our original expectations for a number of reasons, including changes in market and economic conditions, competition, and construction or leasing delays. Our ability to achieve and sustain acceptable occupancy and rental rates may be adversely affected by oversupply, decrease in demand and declines in market rental rates. We face competition in attracting tenants to choose our retail and mixed-use projects over those of other developers and owners of similar properties. If our competitors offer space at rental rates below our current rates or the market rates, we may lose current or potential tenants to other properties in our markets and we may need to reduce rental rates below our current rates in order to retain tenants upon expiration of their leases. Increased competition for tenants may require us to make improvements to properties beyond those that we would otherwise have planned to make.

Current wording

Our leasing operations include the lease of retail space to tenants in a variety of businesses at retail and mixed-use properties that we developed. Retail projects that have not yet stabilized may fail to meet our original expectations for a number of reasons, including changes in market and economic conditions, competition, and construction or leasing delays. Our ability to achieve and sustain acceptable occupancy and rental rates may be adversely affected by oversupply, decrease in demand and declines in market rental rates. We face competition in attracting tenants to choose our retail and mixed-use projects over those of other developers and owners of similar properties. If our competitors offer space at rental rates below our current rates or the market rates, we may lose current or potential tenants to other properties in our markets and we may need to reduce rental rates below our current rates in order to retain tenants upon expiration of their leases. Increased competition for tenants may require us to make improvements to properties beyond those that we would otherwise have planned to make.

Previous wording

In 2022 and 2023, our leasing operations also included the lease of residences in multi-family projects that we developed. Multi-family projects that have not yet stabilized may fail to meet our original expectations for a number of reasons, including changes in market and economic conditions, competition, and construction or leasing delays. Our ability to achieve and sustain acceptable occupancy and rental rates may be adversely affected by oversupply, decrease in demand and declines in market rental rates. We also face competition in attracting tenants to our multi-family projects, including from other multi-family properties as well as from condominiums and single-family homes available for rent or purchase.

Current wording

Our leasing operations also include the lease of residences in multi-family projects that we developed. Multi-family projects that have not yet stabilized may fail to meet our original expectations for a number of reasons, including changes in market and economic conditions, competition, and construction or leasing delays. Our ability to achieve and sustain acceptable occupancy and rental rates may be adversely affected by oversupply, decrease in demand and declines in market rental rates. We also face competition in attracting tenants to our multi-family projects, including from other multi-family properties as well as from condominiums and single-family homes available for rent or purchase.

Previous wording

Holders of our common stock are entitled to receive dividends only when and if they are declared by our Board. Further, our Comerica Bank debt agreements prohibit us from paying a dividend on our common stock without the bank’s prior written consent. Although we declared special cash dividends on our common stock in March 2017 and September 2022 after receiving written consents from Comerica Bank and we anticipate returning capital to stockholders in connection with any sales of our completed retail projects, we may not decide to or be able to pay special cash dividends in the future. Comerica Bank’s consents to the payment of dividends in March 2017 and September 2022 are not indicative of the bank’s willingness to consent to the payment of future dividends.

Current wording

Holders of our common stock are entitled to receive dividends only when and if they are declared by our Board. Further, our Comerica Bank debt agreements prohibit us from paying a dividend on our common stock without the bank’s prior written consent. Although we declared special cash dividends on our common stock in March 2017 and September 2022 after receiving written consents from Comerica Bank, we may decide not to or be unable to pay cash dividends in the future. Comerica Bank’s consents to the payment of dividends in March 2017 and September 2022 are not indicative of the bank’s willingness to consent to the payment of future dividends.

Previous wording

Additionally, our Comerica Bank debt agreements contain a restrictive covenant limiting common stock repurchases to $1.0 million in the aggregate during the term of the agreements. Any repurchases of our common stock in excess of $1.0 million would require a waiver from Comerica Bank. During third-quarter 2022 and fourth quarter 2023, we received written consents from Comerica Bank in order to implement our $10.0 million share repurchase program and subsequent $5.0 million share repurchase program, respectively. In connection with any sales of our completed retail projects, we may seek Comerica Bank’s consent to repurchase additional shares of common stock. Comerica Bank’s consents to share repurchase programs in the past are not indicative of the bank’s willingness to consent to any future share repurchase programs. Our $10.0 million program was completed in October 2023 and in November 2023 our Board approved a new $5.0 million program. As of March 25, 2024, $5.0 million remained available for the repurchase of shares under the $5.0 million program. The timing, price and number of shares that may be repurchased under the program will be based on market conditions, applicable securities laws and other factors considered by management and the Capital Committee of the Board. Share repurchases under the program may be made from time to time through solicited or unsolicited transactions in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or by other means in accordance with securities laws. Our share repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any specific amount of shares, does not have an expiration date, and may be suspended, modified or discontinued at any time without prior notice, which may decrease the trading price of our common stock.

Current wording

Additionally, our Comerica Bank debt agreements contain a restrictive covenant limiting common stock repurchases to $1.0 million in the aggregate during the term of the agreements. Any repurchases of our common stock in excess of $1.0 million would require a waiver from Comerica Bank. During third-quarter 2022 and fourth quarter 2023, we received written consents from Comerica Bank in order to implement our $10.0 million share repurchase program and subsequent $5.0 million share repurchase program, respectively. Comerica Bank’s consents to share repurchase programs in the past are not indicative of the bank’s willingness to consent to any future share repurchase programs. Our $10.0 million program was completed in October 2023 and in November 2023 our Board approved a new $5.0 million program. As of March 21, 2025, $3.0 million remained available for the repurchase of shares under the $5.0 million program. The timing, price and number of shares that may be repurchased under the program will be based on market conditions, applicable securities laws and other factors considered by management and the Capital Committee of the Board. Share repurchases under the program may be made from time to time through solicited or unsolicited transactions in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or by other means in accordance with securities laws. Our share repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any specific amount of shares, does not have an expiration date, and may be suspended, modified or discontinued at any time without prior notice, which may decrease the trading price of our common stock.