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NNN REIT INC

For the period ended Dec 31, 2023. Filed Feb 8, 2024.

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A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.

FY2023 · Filed Feb 8, 2024

NNN$41.76+0.2%Stored close · as of Nov 10, 2026

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of NNN REIT, Inc.

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

We have audited NNN REIT, Inc. and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, NNN REIT, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes and financial statement schedules listed in the Index at Item 15(a) (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”) and our report dated February 8, 2024 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/Ernst & Young LLP

Orlando, Florida

February 8, 2024

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of NNN REIT, Inc.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of NNN REIT, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes and financial statement schedules listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework), and our report dated February 8, 2024 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Description of the MatterValuation of Real Estate AcquisitionsAs discussed in Note 1 of the consolidated financial statements, real estate asset acquisitions require allocation of consideration to the acquired tangible assets, consisting of land, building and tenant improvements and, if applicable, to identified intangible assets and liabilities, based on their respective fair values. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company completed $599 million of real estate acquisitions accounted for as asset acquisitions. Auditing management’s measurement of fair values and allocation of consideration to the acquired tangible assets was complex and involved subjectivity. In particular, the fair value estimates are sensitive to significant assumptions, such as establishing a range of relevant market assumptions for land, building and rent, and estimating where within that range the acquired property falls. Establishing the market assumptions for land, building and rent include identifying the relevant properties in the established range most comparable to the acquired property. The position within the range is a judgmental assumption that relies upon ranking comparable properties’ attributes from most similar to least similar.
How We Addressed the Matter in Our AuditWe obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of controls over the Company’s valuation of real estate acquisitions process. For example, we tested controls over the review and selection of inputs and assumptions used in the valuation estimates and the review of the final allocation of value among the tangible assets acquired. To test the estimated fair values of the Company’s acquired tangible assets, we performed audit procedures that included, among others, reading the purchase agreements, assessing management’s valuation techniques and testing the completeness and accuracy of the underlying data used by the Company in its analysis. For certain acquisitions, we involved our real estate valuation specialists to evaluate management’s concluded ranges of values by benchmarking against comparable properties. We also compared certain of management’s assumptions to current and comparable industry information for land, building, building improvements and market rents.
Impairment of Held and Used Real Estate Assets
Description of the MatterAt December 31, 2023, held and used real estate assets were $8,536 million. As discussed in Notes 1 and 2 of the consolidated financial statements, the Company assesses held and used real estate assets for impairment when certain events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable through operations. When impairment indicators are determined to be present, the Company first performs a recoverability test by comparing the undiscounted future cash flows of the real estate asset to the net carrying value. If the undiscounted cash flows used in the test for recoverability are less than the carrying amount of the asset, the Company determines the fair value of the real estate asset and recognizes an impairment loss if the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.Auditing management’s evaluation of held and used real estate assets for impairment was complex and involved subjectivity due to the significant estimation required to determine the undiscounted future cash flows of held and used assets where impairment indicators were determined to be present and the fair value for those properties in which the net carrying value of the asset exceeds its undiscounted cash flows. In particular, future cash flow estimates were sensitive to the assumptions made by management regarding future market rents, which are affected by expectations about future market and economic conditions.
How We Addressed the Matter in Our AuditWe obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of controls over the Company’s impairment of held and used real estate assets process. For example, we tested controls over management’s review of the market rent assumption.To test the Company’s impairment assessment over held and used real estate assets, our audit procedures included, among others, assessing the methodologies used by management, testing the market rent assumption used to develop the estimates of future cash flows, and testing the completeness and accuracy of the underlying data used by the Company in its analysis. We evaluated the historical accuracy of the Company’s estimates by performing a historical look back on market rent assumptions.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2006.

Orlando, Florida

February 8, 2024

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

ASSETSDecember 31,2023December 31,2022
Real estate portfolio, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization$8,535,851$8,020,814
Cash and cash equivalents1,1892,505
Restricted cash and cash held in escrow3,9664,273
Receivables, net of allowance of $669 and $708, respectively3,6493,612
Accrued rental income, net of allowance of $4,168 and $3,836, respectively34,61127,795
Debt costs, net of accumulated amortization of $23,952 and $21,663, respectively3,2435,352
Other assets79,45981,694
Total assets$8,661,968$8,146,045
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Liabilities:
Line of credit payable$132,000$166,200
Mortgages payable, including unamortized premium and net of unamortized debt costs—9,964
Notes payable, net of unamortized discount and unamortized debt costs4,228,5443,739,890
Accrued interest payable34,37423,826
Other liabilities109,59382,663
Total liabilities4,504,5114,022,543
Commitments and contingencies (Note 13)
Equity:
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value. Authorized 375,000,000 shares; 182,474,770 and 181,424,670 shares issued and outstanding, respectively1,8261,815
Capital in excess of par value4,971,6254,928,034
Accumulated deficit(805,883)(793,765)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)(10,111)(12,582)
Total stockholders' equity of NNN4,157,4574,123,502
Total liabilities and equity$8,661,968$8,146,045

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Revenues:
Rental income$826,090$771,618$723,859
Interest and other income from real estate transactions2,0211,4352,548
828,111773,053726,407
Operating expenses:
General and administrative43,74641,69544,640
Real estate28,37826,28128,385
Depreciation and amortization238,625223,834205,220
Leasing transaction costs299320203
Impairment losses – real estate, net of recoveries5,9908,30921,957
Executive retirement costs3,4547,520—
320,492307,959300,405
Gain on disposition of real estate47,48517,44323,094
Earnings from operations555,104482,537449,096
Other expenses (revenues):
Interest and other income(1,134)(149)(216)
Interest expense163,898148,065137,874
Loss on early extinguishment of debt——21,328
162,764147,916158,986
Net earnings392,340334,621290,110
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interests—53
Net earnings attributable to NNN$392,340$334,626$290,113

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME – CONTINUED

Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Net earnings attributable to NNN$392,340$334,626$290,113
Series F preferred stock dividends——(14,999)
Excess of redemption value over carrying value of preferred shares redeemed——(10,897)
Net earnings attributable to common stockholders$392,340$334,626$264,217
Net earnings per share of common stock:
Basic$2.16$1.89$1.51
Diluted$2.16$1.89$1.51
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic181,200,040176,403,656174,710,921
Diluted181,689,723177,067,865174,818,899
Other comprehensive income:
Net earnings attributable to NNN$392,340$334,626$290,113
Amortization of interest rate hedges2,4712,3743,073
Fair value of forward starting swaps——(1,584)
Comprehensive income attributable to NNN394,811337,000291,602
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests—(5)(3)
Total comprehensive income$394,811$336,995$291,599

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

Series FPreferredStockCommonStockCapital in Excess of Par ValueAccumulated DeficitAccumulatedOtherComprehensive Income (Loss)Total Stockholders'Equity of NNNNoncontrolling InterestsTotalEquity
Balances at December 31, 2020$345,000$1,753$4,633,771$(644,779)$(16,445)$4,319,300$4$4,319,304
Net earnings———290,113—290,113(3)290,110
Dividends declared and paid:
$1.086944 per depositary share of Series F preferred stock———(14,999)—(14,999)—(14,999)
$2.100 per share of common stock——2,499(367,291)—(364,792)—(364,792)
Redemption of 13,800,000 depository shares of Series F preferred stock(345,000)—10,897(10,897)—(345,000)—(345,000)
Issuance of common stock:
30,539 shares – director compensation——1,145——1,145—1,145
7,062 shares – stock purchase plan——320——320—320
30,000 shares – ATM equity program—11,233——1,234—1,234
287,207 restricted shares – net of forfeitures—3(3)—————
Stock issuance costs——(299)——(299)—(299)
Amortization of deferred compensation——13,151——13,151—13,151
Amortization of interest rate hedges————3,0733,073—3,073
Fair value of forward starting swaps————(1,584)(1,584)—(1,584)
Balances at December 31, 2021$—$1,757$4,662,714$(747,853)$(14,956)$3,901,662$1$3,901,663

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY – CONTINUED

CommonStockCapital in Excess of Par ValueAccumulated DeficitAccumulatedOtherComprehensive Income (Loss)Total Stockholders'Equity of NNNNoncontrolling InterestsTotalEquity
Balances at December 31, 2021$1,757$4,662,714$(747,853)$(14,956)$3,901,662$1$3,901,663
Net earnings——334,626—334,626(5)334,621
Dividends declared and paid:
$2.160 per share of common stock—2,765(380,538)—(377,773)—(377,773)
Issuance of common stock:
33,013 shares – director compensation—1,244——1,244—1,244
7,235 shares – stock purchase plan—317——317—317
5,473,072 shares – ATM equity program55250,835——250,890—250,890
232,551 restricted shares – net of forfeitures3(3)—————
Stock issuance costs—(3,761)——(3,761)—(3,761)
Amortization of deferred compensation—14,205——14,205—14,205
Amortization of interest rate hedges———2,3742,374—2,374
Distributions to noncontrolling interests—————(278)(278)
Other—(282)——(282)282—
Balances at December 31, 2022$1,815$4,928,034$(793,765)$(12,582)$4,123,502$—$4,123,502

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY – CONTINUED

CommonStockCapital in Excess of Par ValueAccumulated DeficitAccumulatedOtherComprehensive Income (Loss)TotalStockholders'Equity of NNN
Balances at December 31, 2022$1,815$4,928,034$(793,765)$(12,582)$4,123,502
Net earnings——392,340—392,340
Dividends declared and paid:
$2.230 per share of common stock12,897(404,458)—(401,560)
Issuance of common stock:
34,254 shares – director compensation—1,128——1,128
6,651 shares – stock purchase plan—280——280
650,135 shares – ATM equity program729,143——29,150
275,317 restricted shares – net of forfeitures3(3)———
Stock issuance costs—(954)——(954)
Amortization of deferred compensation—11,100——11,100
Amortization of interest rate hedges———2,4712,471
Balances at December 31, 2023$1,826$4,971,625$(805,883)$(10,111)$4,157,457

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings$392,340$334,621$290,110
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization238,625223,834205,220
Impairment losses – real estate, net of recoveries5,9908,30921,957
Loss on early extinguishment of debt——21,328
Amortization of notes payable discount2,0741,6912,130
Amortization of debt costs4,9434,7345,186
Amortization of mortgages payable premium(21)(87)(85)
Amortization of interest rate hedges2,4712,3743,073
Settlement of forward starting swaps——(1,584)
Gain on disposition of real estate(47,485)(17,443)(23,094)
Performance incentive plan expense13,37517,33014,491
Performance incentive plan payment(916)(103)(721)
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Decrease (increase) in receivables(853)3581,184
Decrease (increase) in accrued rental income(7,453)3,55921,137
Decrease in other assets2434241,589
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest payable10,548(97)4,522
Increase (decrease) in other liabilities(1,550)(1,217)2,279
Other7968(297)
Net cash provided by operating activities612,410578,355568,425
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from the disposition of real estate116,33466,962123,052
Additions to real estate(795,791)(842,872)(553,322)
Principal payments received on mortgages and notes receivable559521486
Other(1,762)(2,242)(2,393)
Net cash used in investing activities(680,660)(777,631)(432,177)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS – CONTINUED

Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from line of credit payable$872,500$688,000$—
Repayment of line of credit payable(906,700)(521,800)—
Repayment of mortgages payable(9,947)(664)(630)
Proceeds from notes payable488,380—881,172
Repayment of notes payable——(350,000)
Payment for early extinguishment of debt——(21,328)
Payment of debt issuance costs(4,510)(199)(17,814)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock32,328253,9724,053
Stock issuance costs(966)(3,761)(325)
Redemption of Series F preferred stock——(345,000)
Payment of Series F preferred stock dividends——(14,999)
Payment of common stock dividends(404,458)(380,538)(367,291)
Noncontrolling interest distributions—(278)—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities66,62734,732(232,162)
Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash(1,623)(164,544)(95,914)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year(1)6,778171,322267,236
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of year(1)$5,155$6,778$171,322
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Interest paid, net of amount capitalized$148,169$140,331$123,376
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing and financing activities:
Change in other comprehensive income$2,471$2,374$1,489
Right-of-use asset recorded in connection with lease liability$6,401$—$—
Change in work in progress accrual$23,103$4,468$2,093

(1)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash is the aggregate ofcash and cash equivalents andrestricted cash and cash held in escrow from the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, NNN had restricted cash of$3,966,000 and$4,273,000, respectively. NNN didnot have restricted cash, including cash held in escrow as of December 31, 2021.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1 – Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:

Organization and Nature of Business. NNN REIT, Inc., a Maryland corporation, formerly known as National Retail Properties, Inc., is a fully integrated real estate investment trust ("REIT") formed in 1984. The term "NNN" or the "Company" refers to NNN REIT, Inc. and all of its consolidated subsidiaries. NNN may elect to treat certain of its subsidiaries as taxable REIT subsidiaries ("TRS"). On May 1, 2023, National Retail Properties, Inc. changed its name to NNN REIT, Inc.

NNN's assets primarily include real estate assets. NNN acquires, owns, invests in and develops properties that are leased primarily to retail tenants under long-term net leases and are primarily held for investment ("Properties" or "Property Portfolio," or individually a "Property").

Property Portfolio:
Total Properties3,532
Gross leasable area (square feet)35,966,000
States49
Weighted average remaining lease term (years)10.1

NNN's operations are reported withinone reportable segment in the consolidated financial statements and all properties are considered part of the Properties or Property Portfolio. As such, property counts and calculations involving property counts reflect all NNN properties.

Principles of Consolidation. NNN's consolidated financial statements include the accounts of each of the respective majority owned and controlled affiliates, including transactions whereby NNN has been determined to be the primary beneficiary in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") guidance included in Topic 810, Consolidation. All significant intercompany account balances and transactions have been eliminated.

NNN consolidates certain joint venture development entities based upon either NNN being the primary beneficiary of the respective variable interest entity or NNN having a controlling interest over the respective entity. NNN records a noncontrolling interest for its non-NNN ownership of consolidated entities.

Real Estate Portfolio. NNN records the acquisition of real estate at cost, including acquisition and closing costs. The cost of Properties developed or funded by NNN includes direct and indirect costs of construction, property taxes, interest, third-party costs and other miscellaneous costs incurred during the development period until the project is substantially complete and available for occupancy. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, NNN recorded$4,286,000,$881,000 and$328,000, respectively, in capitalized interest during development.

Purchase Accounting for Acquisition of Real Estate. In accordance with the FASB ASC guidance on business combinations, consideration for the real estate acquired is allocated to the acquired tangible assets, consisting of land, building and tenant improvements and, if applicable, to identified intangible assets and liabilities, consisting of the value of above-market and below-market leases and the value of in-place leases, as applicable, based on their respective fair values.

The fair value estimate is sensitive to significant assumptions, such as establishing a range of relevant market assumptions for land, building and rent and where the acquired property falls within that range. These market assumptions for land, building and rent use the most relevant comparable properties for an acquisition. The final value relies upon ranking comparable properties' attributes from most to least similar.

The fair value of the tangible assets of an acquired property is determined by valuing the property as if it were vacant, and the "as-if-vacant" value is then allocated to land, building and tenant improvements based on the determination of their fair values.

In allocating the fair value of the identified intangible assets and liabilities of an acquired property, above-market and below-market in-place lease values are recorded as other assets or liabilities based on the present value (using an interest rate which reflects the risks associated with the leases acquired) of the difference between (i) the contractual amounts to be paid pursuant to the in-place leases, and (ii) management's estimate of fair market lease rates for the corresponding in-place leases, measured over a period equal to the remaining term of the lease and the renewal option terms if it is probable that the tenant will exercise options. The capitalized above-market lease values are amortized as a reduction of rental income over the remaining terms of the respective leases. The capitalized below-market lease values are amortized as an increase to rental income over the initial term unless the Company believes that it is likely that the tenant will renew the lease for an option term whereby the Company amortizes the value attributable to the renewal over the renewal period.

The aggregate value of other acquired intangible assets, consisting of in-place leases, is valued by comparing the purchase price paid for a property after adjusting for existing in-place leases to the estimated fair value of the property as-if-vacant, determined as set forth above. This intangible asset is amortized to expense over the remaining non-cancelable periods of the respective leases. If a lease were to be terminated prior to its stated expiration, all unamortized amounts relating to that lease would be written off in that period. The value of tenant relationships is reviewed on individual transactions to determine if future value was derived from the acquisition.

NNN completed$599,480,000 and$784,165,000 of real estate acquisitions during the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Additionally, NNN invested$220,230,000 and$63,582,000 of work in progress and improvements during the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Lease Accounting. NNN records its leases on the Property Portfolio in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 842, Leases("ASC 842"). In addition, NNN records right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities as lessee under operating leases in accordance with ASC 842.

NNN's real estate is generally leased to tenants on a net lease basis, whereby the tenant is responsible for all operating expenses relating to the Property, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, repairs and capital expenditures. The leases are accounted for using either the operating or the direct financing method. Such methods are described below:

Operating method – Properties with leases accounted for using the operating method are recorded at the cost of the real estate and depreciated on the straight-line method over their estimated remaining useful lives, which generally range from 20 to 40 years for buildings and improvements and 15 years for land improvements. Leasehold interests are amortized on the straight-line method over the terms of their respective leases. Revenue is recognized as rentals are earned and expenses (including depreciation) are charged to operations as incurred. When scheduled rentals vary during the lease term, income is recognized on a straight-line basis so as to produce a constant periodic rent over the term of the lease. Accrued rental income is the aggregate difference between the scheduled rents which vary during the lease term and the income recognized on a straight-line basis.

Direct financing method – Properties with leases accounted for using the direct financing method are recorded at their net investment (which at the inception of the lease generally represents the cost of the Property). Unearned income is deferred and amortized into income over the lease terms so as to produce a constant periodic rate of return on NNN's net investment in the leases.

In April 2020, the FASB issued interpretive guidance relating to the accounting for lease concessions provided as a result of the novel strain of coronavirus and its variants ("COVID-19"). In this guidance, entities can elect not to apply lease modification accounting with respect to such lease concessions and instead, treat the concession as if it was a part of the existing contract. This guidance is only applicable to COVID-19 related lease concessions that do not result in a substantial increase in the rights of the lessor or the obligations of the lessee. NNN elected to make this policy election for COVID-19 lease concessions, provided in the rent deferral lease amendments effective during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.

Collectability. In accordance with ASC 842, NNN reviews the collectability of its lease payments on an ongoing basis. NNN considers collectability indicators when analyzing accounts receivable (and accrued rent) and historical bad debt levels, tenant credit-worthiness and current economic trends, all of which assists in evaluating the probability of outstanding and future rental income collections and the adequacy of the allowance for doubtful accounts. In addition, tenants in bankruptcy are analyzed and considerations are made in connection with the expected recovery of pre-petition and post-petition bankruptcy claims.

When NNN deems the collection of rental income from a tenant not probable, uncollected previously recognized rental revenue and any related accrued rent are reversed as a reduction to rental income and, subsequently, any rental income is only recognized when cash receipts are received. At this point, a tenant is deemed cash basis for accounting purposes. If NNN subsequently deems the collection of rental income is probable, any related accrued rental income or expense is restored.

As a result of the review of lease payments collectability, NNN recorded a write-off of $204,000 of outstanding receivables and related accrued rent during the year ended December 31, 2023, and reclassified certain tenants as cash basis for accounting purposes. During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, no additional tenants were deemed as cash basis for accounting purposes.

The following table summarizes those tenants classified as cash basis for accounting purposes as of December 31:

202320222021
Number of tenants9811
Cash basis tenants as a percent of:
Total Properties3.5%5.0%5.5%
Total annual base rent(1)5.0%7.0%7.0%
Total gross leasable area4.8%6.6%7.3%
(1)Based on annualized base rent for all leases in place for each respective year.

During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, NNN recognized$56,229,000,$62,454,000 and$52,129,000, respectively, of rental income from certain tenants for periods following their classification to cash basis for accounting purposes.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, one tenant was reclassified to accrual basis for accounting purposes due to their improved qualitative and/or quantitative credit factors (see "Note 2 – Real Estate").

During the year ended December 31, 2022, three tenants were reclassified to accrual basis for accounting purposes due to their improved qualitative and/or quantitative credit factors. The impact of the reclassification was immaterial.

NNN includes an allowance for doubtful accounts inrental income on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income.

Right-Of-Use ("ROU") Assets and Operating Lease Liabilities. In accordance with ASC 842, NNN recorded ROU assets and operating lease liabilities as lessee under operating lease.

NNN is a lessee for three ground lease arrangements and for its headquarters office lease. NNN recognized a ROU asset (recorded inother assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets) and an operating lease liability (recorded inother liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets) for the present value of the minimum lease payments. ROU assets represent NNN's right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent NNN's obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the estimated present value of the lease payments over the lease term. NNN's lease term is based on the non-cancellable base term unless economic incentives make it reasonably certain that an option period to extend the lease will be exercised, in which event NNN includes the options.

NNN estimates an incremental borrowing rate, which is derived from information available at the lease commencement date, in determining the present value of the lease payments. NNN gives consideration to the Company's debt issuances, as well as, publicly available data for secured instruments with similar characteristics when calculating its incremental borrowing rates. On an annual basis, NNN will evaluate its lessee portfolio and determine if its incremental borrowing rate should be reassessed.

NNN's lease agreements do not contain any residual value guarantees.

In January 2023, NNN amended its headquarters office lease and extended the lease term until March 31, 2034. The amendment resulted in an increase in the ROU asset and operating lease liability of approximately $6,401,000.

Real Estate – Held For Sale. Real estate held for sale is not depreciated and is recorded at the lower of cost or fair value, less cost to sell. On a quarterly basis, the Company evaluates its Properties for held for sale classification based on specific criteria as outlined in FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant and Equipment, including management's intent to commit to a plan to sell the asset. NNN anticipates the disposition of Properties classified as held for sale to occur within 12 months. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, NNN had recorded real estate held for sale of $4,573,000 (one property) and $786,000 (two properties), respectively, inreal estate portfolio on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The two properties classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2022 were sold during the year ended December 31, 2023.

Real Estate Dispositions. When real estate is disposed, the related cost, accumulated depreciation or amortization and any accrued rental income for operating leases and the net investment for direct financing leases are removed from the accounts, and gains and losses from the dispositions are reflected in income. FASB ASC Topic 610-20, Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets ("ASC 610-20"), provides guidance for recognizing gains and losses from the transfer of nonfinancial assets in contracts with noncustomers. An entity that transfers a nonfinancial asset in the scope of ASC 610-20 follows a two-step derecognition model to determine whether (and when) to derecognize the asset. NNN determined the key revenue stream impacted by ASC 610-20 isgain on disposition of real estate reported on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. In accordance with ASC 610-20, NNN evaluates any separate contracts or performance obligations to determine proper timing and/or amount of revenue recognition, as well as, transfer of control and transaction price allocation in determining the amount of gain or loss to record.

Impairment – Real Estate. NNN periodically assesses its long-lived real estate assets for possible impairment whenever certain events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. These indicators include, but are not limited to: changes in real estate market conditions, the ability of NNN to re-lease properties that are currently vacant or become vacant, properties reclassified as held for sale, persistent vacancies greater than one year, and properties leased to tenants in bankruptcy. Management evaluates whether an impairment in carrying value has occurred by comparing the estimated future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges), and the residual value of the real estate, with the carrying value of the individual asset. The future undiscounted cash flows are primarily driven by estimated future market rents. Future cash flow estimates are sensitive to the assumptions made by management regarding future market rents, which are affected by expectations about future market and economic conditions. If an impairment is indicated, a loss will be recorded for the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its estimated fair value. NNN's Properties are leased primarily to retail tenants under long-term net leases and primarily held for investment. Generally, NNN's Property leases provide for initial terms of 10 to 20 years, with cash flows provided over the entire term.

Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. FASB ASC Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses requires entities to estimate an expected lifetime credit loss on financial assets ranging from short-term trade accounts receivable to long-term financings. The guidance requires a lifetime credit loss expected at inception and requires pooling of assets, which share similar risk characteristics. NNN is required to evaluate current economic conditions, as well as, make future expectations of economic conditions. In addition, the measurement of the expected credit loss is over the asset's contractual term.

NNN held mortgages receivable, including accrued interest, of$1,002,000 and$1,530,000 included inother assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, net of$64,000 and$98,000 allowance for credit loss, respectively. NNN measures the allowance for credit loss based on the fair value of the collateral and the historical collectability trend analysis over 15 years.

Cash and Cash Equivalents. NNN considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and money market accounts. Cash equivalents are stated at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates fair value. Cash accounts maintained on behalf of NNN in demand deposits at commercial banks and money market funds may exceed federally insured levels or may be held in accounts without any federal insurance or any other insurance or guarantee. However, NNN has not experienced any losses in such accounts.

Restricted Cash and Cash Held in Escrow. Restricted cash and cash held in escrow include (i) cash proceeds from the sale of assets held by qualified intermediaries in anticipation of the acquisition of replacement properties in tax-free exchanges under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), (ii) cash that has been placed in escrow for the future funding of construction commitments, or (iii) cash that is not immediately available to NNN. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, NNN held$3,966,000 and$4,273,000, respectively, in restricted cash and cash held in escrow.

Debt Costs – Line of Credit Payable. Debt costs incurred in connection with NNN's $1,100,000,000 unsecured revolving line of credit have been deferred and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the loan commitment using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method. NNN has recorded debt costs associated with the Credit Facility (as defined below) as an asset, indebt costs on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Debt Costs – Mortgages Payable. Debt costs incurred in connection with NNN's mortgages were deferred and amortized over the term of the respective loan commitment using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method. These costs of$147,000 at December 31, 2022, are included inmortgages payable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of accumulated amortization of$142,000. There were no such costs at December 31, 2023.

Debt Costs – Notes Payable. Debt costs incurred in connection with the issuance of NNN's unsecured notes have been deferred and are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the respective debt obligation using the effective interest method. NNN had debt costs of$42,595,000 and$38,145,000 included innotes payable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, net of accumulated amortization of$14,343,000 and$11,693,000, respectively.

Revenue Recognition. Rental revenues for properties under construction commence upon completion of construction of the leased asset and delivery of the leased asset to the tenant. Rental revenues for non-development real estate assets are recognized when earned in accordance with ASC 842, based on the terms of the lease of the leased asset. Lease termination fees are recognized when collected subsequent to the related lease that is cancelled and NNN no longer has continuing involvement with the former tenant with respect to that property.

FASB ASC Topic 610-20, Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets ("ASC 610-20"), provides guidance for recognizing gains and losses from the transfer of nonfinancial assets in contracts with noncustomers. An entity that transfers a nonfinancial asset in the scope of ASC 610-20 follows a two-step derecognition model to determine whether (and when) to derecognize the asset. NNN determined the key revenue stream impacted by ASC 610-20 isgain on disposition of real estate reported on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. In accordance with ASC 610-20, NNN evaluates any separate contracts or performance obligations to determine proper timing and/or amount of revenue recognition, as well as, transfer of control and transaction price allocation in determining the amount of gain or loss to record.

COVID-19 Pandemic. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, NNN and its tenants were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic which resulted in the loss of revenue for certain tenants and challenged their ability to pay rent. As a result, NNN entered into rent deferral lease amendments with certain tenants (see "Note 2 – Real Estate").

Earnings Per Share. Earnings per share have been computed pursuant to the FASB guidance included in FASB ASC Topic 260, Earnings Per Share. The guidance requires classification of the Company's unvested restricted share units which contain rights to receive nonforfeitable dividends, as participating securities requiring the two-class method of computing earnings per share. Under the two-class method, earnings per common share are computed by dividing the sum of distributed earnings to common stockholders and undistributed earnings allocated to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. In applying the two-class method, undistributed earnings are allocated to both common shares and participating securities based on the weighted average shares outstanding during the period.

The following table is a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator used in the computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share using the two-class method for the years ended December 31 (dollars in thousands):

202320222021
Basic and Diluted Earnings:
Net earnings attributable to NNN$392,340$334,626$290,113
Less: Series F preferred stock dividends——(14,999)
Less: Excess of redemption value over carrying value of preferred shares redeemed——(10,897)
Net earnings available to common stockholders392,340334,626264,217
Less: Earnings allocated to unvested restricted shares(609)(514)(689)
Net earnings used in basic and diluted earnings per share$391,731$334,112$263,528
Basic and Diluted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:
Weighted average number of shares outstanding182,184,038177,332,094175,554,961
Less: Unvested restricted shares(273,077)(237,918)(328,070)
Less: Unvested contingent restricted shares(710,921)(690,520)(515,970)
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used in basic earnings per share181,200,040176,403,656174,710,921
Other dilutive securities489,683664,209107,978
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used in diluted earnings per share181,689,723177,067,865174,818,899

Income Taxes. NNN has made an election to be taxed as a REIT under Sections 856 through 860 of the Code, and related regulations. NNN generally will not be subject to federal income taxes on taxable income it distributes to stockholders, provided it meets certain other requirements for qualifying as a REIT. For each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2023, NNN believes it has qualified as a REIT. Notwithstanding NNN's qualification for taxation as a REIT, NNN is subject to certain state and local income, franchise and excise taxes.

NNN may elect to treat certain subsidiaries as TRS pursuant to the provisions of the REIT Modernization Act. A TRS is able to engage in activities resulting in income that previously would have been disqualified from being eligible REIT income under the federal income tax regulations. As a result, certain activities of NNN which occur within its TRS entities are subject to federal and state or local income taxes. All provisions for federal income taxes in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are attributable to NNN's former TRS. The deferred tax asset consists only of net operating loss carryforwards of $3,899,000 from the former TRS that begin to expire in 2026. Management believes it is unlikely that NNN will realize any of the benefits of these deductible differences and has taken a valuation allowance against them. There was no change to the valuation allowance. NNN currently has no TRS entities.

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method as required by FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes("ASC 740"). Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the temporary differences based on estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the applicable period.

In accordance with ASC 740, NNN has analyzed its various federal and state filing positions. NNN believes that its income tax filing positions and deductions are well documented and supported. Additionally, NNN believes that its accruals for tax liabilities are adequate. Therefore, no reserves for uncertain income tax positions have been recorded.

NNN has hadno unrecognized tax benefits during any of the years presented. Further, no interest or penalties have been included since no reserves were recorded and no significant increases or decreases are expected to occur within the next 12 months. When applicable, such interest and penalties will be recorded in non-operating expenses. The periods that remain open under federal statute are 2020 through 2023. NNN also files in many states and localities with varying open years under statute.

Fair Value Measurement. NNN's estimates of fair value of financial and non-financial assets and liabilities are based on the framework established in FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement. The framework specifies a hierarchy of valuation inputs which was established to increase consistency, clarity and comparability in fair value measurements and related disclosures. The guidance describes a fair value hierarchy based upon three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value, two of which are considered observable and one that is considered unobservable. The following describes the three levels:

Level 1 – Valuation is based upon quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 – Valuation is based upon inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in markets that are not active or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3 – Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use at least one significant assumption not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques include option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss). The following table outlines the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 (dollars in thousands):

Gain or Loss onCash FlowHedges(1)
Beginning balance, December 31, 2021$(14,956)
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income to net earnings2,374(2)
Ending balance, December 31, 2022(12,582)
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income to net earnings2,471(2)
Ending balance, December 31, 2023$(10,111)

(1)

Additional disclosure is included in Note 5 – Notes Payable and Derivatives.

(2)

Recorded ininterest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. There is no income tax expense (benefit) resulting from this reclassification.

New Accounting Pronouncements. ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848) (“ASU 2020-04”) contains practical expedients for reference rate reform-related activities, including the transition away from the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"), that impact debt, leases, derivatives and other contracts. The guidance in ASU 2020-04 is optional and may be elected over time as reference rate reform activities occur. In 2021, NNN elected to apply the hedge accounting expedients related to probability and the assessments of effectiveness for future LIBOR-indexed cash flows to assume that the index upon which future hedged transactions will be based matches the index on the corresponding derivatives. Application of these expedients preserves the presentation of derivatives consistent with past presentation. NNN continues to evaluate the impact of the guidance and may apply other elections as applicable as additional changes in the market occur.

NNN had no derivative financial instruments outstanding as of December 31, 2023.

In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848 (“ASU 2022-06”) which was issued to defer the sunset date of ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform to December 31, 2024. ASU 2022-06 is effective immediately for all companies. For the year ended December 31, 2023, ASU 2022-06 had no impact on NNN's financial position or results of operations.

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures ("ASU 2023-07"), effective for fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2023 and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. The amendments in this update require public entities to provide enhanced disclosures primarily around segment expenses. On an annual and interim basis entities will disclose significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker and included with each measure of segment profit or loss, an amount for “other segment items” by reportable segment accompanied by a description of its composition, and all annual disclosures about segment profit and loss currently required by Topic 280 to be disclosed in interim periods. While NNN only has one reportable segment, NNN is currently evaluating the potential impact the adoption of ASU 2023-07 will have on its future disclosures.

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures ("ASU 2023-09"), effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. The amendments in the update require public business entities on an annual basis to disclose specific categories in the rate reconciliation and provide additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold of equal to or greater than five percent of the amount computed by multiplying pretax income by the statutory income tax rate. The amendments also require that entities disclose on an annual basis information about the amount of income taxes paid disaggregated by federal, state, and foreign taxes and the amount of income taxes paid disaggregated by individual jurisdictions in which income taxes paid is equal to or greater than five percent of total income taxes paid. The amendments eliminate some of the previous required disclosures for all entities relating to estimates of the change in unrecognized tax benefits reasonably possible within 12 months. NNN is currently evaluating the potential impact the adoption of ASU 2023-09 will have on its future disclosures.

Use of Estimates. Additional critical accounting policies of NNN include management's estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities which are required to prepare the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Significant accounting policies include management's estimates of the purchase accounting for acquisition of real estate, the recoverability of the carrying value of long-lived assets and management's evaluation of the probability of outstanding and future lease payment collections. Estimates are sensitive to evaluations by management about current and future expectations of market and economic conditions. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Note 2 – Real Estate:

Real Estate – Portfolio

Leases. At December 31, 2023, NNN's real estate portfolio has a weighted average remaining lease term of 10.1 years and consisted of 3,551 leases classified as operating leases and an additional four leases accounted for as direct financing leases.

The following is a summary of the general structure of the leases in the Property Portfolio, although the specific terms of each lease can vary significantly. Typically, the Property leases provide for initial terms of 10 to 20 years. The Properties are generally leased under net leases, pursuant to which the tenant typically bears responsibility for substantially all property costs and expenses associated with ongoing maintenance, repair, replacement and operation of the Property, including utilities, real estate taxes and assessments and property and liability insurance. Certain Properties are subject to leases under which NNN retains responsibility for specific costs and expenses of the Property. NNN's leases provide for annual base rental payments (generally payable in monthly installments), and generally provide for limited increases in rent as a result of increases in the Consumer Price Index or fixed increases.

Generally, NNN's leases provide the tenant with one or more multi-year renewal options, subject to generally the same terms and conditions provided under the initial lease term, including rent increases. NNN's lease term is based on the non-cancellable base term unless economic incentives make it reasonably certain that an option period to extend the lease will be exercised, in which event NNN includes the renewal options. Some of the leases also provide that in the event NNN wishes to sell the Property subject to that lease, NNN first must offer the lessee the right to purchase the Property on the same terms and conditions as any offer which NNN intends to accept for the sale of the Property.

Real Estate Portfolio. NNN's real estate consisted of the following at December 31 (dollars in thousands):

20232022
Land and improvements (1)$2,878,400$2,669,498
Buildings and improvements7,368,8736,985,394
Leasehold interests355355
10,247,6289,655,247
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization(1,863,451)(1,660,308)
8,384,1777,994,939
Work in progress and improvements144,06821,737
Accounted for using the operating method8,528,2458,016,676
Accounted for using the direct financing method3,0333,352
Classified as held for sale(2)4,573786
$8,535,851$8,020,814

(1)

Includes$96,464 and$22,356 in land for Properties under construction as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

(2)

As of December 31, 2023, one Property was classified as held for sale. The two properties classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2022 were sold during the year ended December 31, 2023.

NNN recognized the following revenues in rental income for the years ended December 31 (dollars in thousands):

202320222021
Rental income from operating leases$805,136$751,680$703,865
Earned income from direct financing leases560595623
Percentage rent1,6311,541706
Rental revenues807,327753,816705,194
Real estate expense reimbursement from tenants18,76317,80218,665
$826,090$771,618$723,859

Some leases provide for a free rent period or scheduled rent increases throughout the lease term. Such amounts are recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the leases.

During 2021 and 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, NNN entered into rent deferral lease amendments with certain tenants in the Property Portfolio, for an aggregate$4,722,000 and$51,723,000 of rent originally due for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The rent deferral lease amendments require the deferred rents to be repaid at a later time during the lease term. As of December 31, 2023, an aggregate of approximately 93 percent of deferred rent has been repaid, with$3,124,000,$14,478,000 and$31,776,000 of deferred rent repaid during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, NNN recognized$7,453,000,($3,559,000) and($21,137,000), respectively, of net-straight-line accrued rental income, net of reserves. During the year ended December 31, 2023, one tenant was reclassified to accrual basis for accounting purposes due to their improved qualitative and/or quantitative credit factors, which resulted in an increase of accrued rental income in the amount of $5,573,000.

The following is a schedule of undiscounted cash flows to be received on noncancellable operating leases as of December 31, 2023 (dollars in thousands):

2024$765,337
2025744,061
2026701,437
2027655,268
2028604,084
Thereafter4,286,914
$7,757,101

Since lease renewal periods are exercisable at the option of the tenant, the above table only presents undiscounted cash flows due during the current lease terms. In addition, this table does not include amounts for potential variable rent increases that are based on the Consumer Price Index or future contingent rents which may be received on the leases based on a percentage of the tenant's sales volume.

Real Estate – Intangibles

In accordance with purchase accounting for the acquisition of real estate subject to a lease, NNN has recorded intangible assets and lease liabilities that consisted of the following at December 31 (dollars in thousands):

20232022
Intangible lease assets (included in other assets):
Above-market in-place leases$15,297$15,356
Less: accumulated amortization(12,080)(11,477)
Above-market in-place leases, net$3,217$3,879
In-place leases$122,802$124,198
Less: accumulated amortization(85,332)(79,675)
In-place leases, net$37,470$44,523
Intangible lease liabilities (included in other liabilities):
Below-market in-place leases$41,244$41,371
Less: accumulated amortization(29,117)(28,121)
Below-market in-place leases, net$12,127$13,250

The amounts amortized as a net increase to rental income for capitalized above-market and below-market leases for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were$430,000,$510,000 and$710,000, respectively. The value of in-place leases amortized to expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 was$6,793,000,$7,132,000 and$7,687,000, respectively.

The following is a schedule of the amortization of acquired above-market and below-market in-place lease intangibles and the amortization of the in-place lease intangibles as of December 31, 2023 (dollars in thousands):

Above-Marketand Below-MarketIn-PlaceLeaseIntangibles(1) · In-Place LeaseIntangibles(2)
2024$451$6,139
20254375,421
20264484,835
20274684,010
20286423,566
Thereafter6,46413,499
$8,910$37,470
Weighted average amortization period (years)16.38.5

(1)

Recorded as a net increase to rental income over the life of the lease.

(2)

Amortized as an increase to amortization expense.

Real Estate – Dispositions

The following table summarizes the properties sold and the corresponding gain recognized on the disposition of properties for the years ended December 31 (dollars in thousands):

202320222021
# of SoldPropertiesGain# of SoldPropertiesGain# of SoldPropertiesGain
Gain on disposition of real estate45$47,48533$17,44374$23,094

Real Estate – Commitments

As of December 31, 2023, NNN has committed to fund construction of 53 Properties. The improvements of such Properties are estimated to be completed within 12 to 18 months. These construction commitments, at December 31, 2023, are outlined in the table below (dollars in thousands):

Total commitment(1)$379,674
Less amount funded(240,532)
Remaining commitment$139,142
(1)Includes land, construction costs, tenant improvements, lease costs, capitalized interest and third-party costs.

Real Estate – Impairments

NNN periodically assesses its long-lived real estate assets for possible impairment whenever certain events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable.

As a result of NNN's review of long-lived real estate assets, including identifiable intangible assets, NNN recognized real estate impairments, net of recoveries as summarized in the table below (dollars in thousands):

202320222021
Total real estate impairments, net of recoveries$5,990$8,309$21,957
Number of Properties:
Vacant11930
Occupied3712

The valuation of impaired assets is determined using widely accepted valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis, income capitalization, analysis of recent comparable sales transactions, actual sales negotiations and bona fide purchase offers received from third parties, which are Level 3 inputs. NNN may consider a single valuation technique or multiple valuation techniques, as appropriate, when estimating the fair value of its real estate.

Note 3 – Line of Credit Payable:

NNN's $1,100,000,000 revolving credit facility (the "Credit Facility") had a weighted average outstanding balance of$169,620,000 and a weighted average interest rate of 5.86% during the year ended December 31, 2023. In December 2022, NNN entered into an amendment to the Credit Facility, to change the base interest rate from the London Interbank Offer Rate ("LIBOR") to the Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") plus a SOFR adjustment of 10 basis points ("Adjusted SOFR"). The Credit Facility bears interest at Adjusted SOFR plus 77.5 basis points; however, such interest rate may change pursuant to a tiered interest rate structure based on NNN's debt rating. Additionally, as part of NNN's environmental, social and governance ("ESG") initiative, pricing may be reduced if specified ESG metrics are achieved. The Credit Facility matures in June 2025, unless the Company exercises its options to extend maturity to June 2026. The Credit Facility also includes an accordion feature which permits NNN to increase the facility size up to $2,000,000,000, subject to lender approval. In connection with the Credit Facility, loan costs are classified asdebt costs on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. As of December 31, 2023, there was$132,000,000 outstanding and$968,000,000 available for future borrowings under the Credit Facility.

In accordance with the terms of the Credit Facility, NNN is required to meet certain restrictive financial covenants which, among other things, require NNN to maintain certain (i) leverage ratios, (ii) debt service coverage, (iii) cash flow coverage, and (iv) investment and dividend limitations. At December 31, 2023, NNN was in compliance with each of the Credit Facility financial covenants.

Note 4 – Mortgages Payable:

As of December 31, 2022, NNN had mortgages payable, including unamortized premium and net of unamortized debt costs, of $9,964,000. The mortgages payable had an interest rate of 5.23% and matured July 2023. The loan was secured by a first lien onfive of the Properties and the carrying value of the assets was $18,485,000 as of December 31, 2022. In April 2023, NNN repaid the remaining mortgages payable principal balance of $9,774,000.

Note 5 – Notes Payable and Derivatives:

Each of NNN's outstanding series of unsecured notes is summarized in the table below (dollars in thousands):

NotesIssue DatePrincipalDiscount(1)NetPriceStatedRateEffectiveRate(2)Maturity Date
2024(3)May 2014$350,000$707$349,2933.900%3.924%June 2024(4)(5)
2025(3)October 2015400,000964399,0364.000%4.029%November 2025(4)
2026(3)December 2016350,0003,860346,1403.600%3.733%December 2026(4)
2027(3)September 2017400,0001,628398,3723.500%3.548%October 2027(4)
2028(3)September 2018400,0002,848397,1524.300%4.388%October 2028(4)
2030(3)March 2020400,0001,288398,7122.500%2.536%April 2030
2033August 2023500,00011,620488,3805.600%5.905%October 2033
2048September 2018300,0004,239295,7614.800%4.890%October 2048
2050March 2020300,0006,066293,9343.100%3.205%April 2050
2051March 2021450,0008,406441,5943.500%3.602%April 2051
2052(3)September 2021450,00010,422439,5783.000%3.118%April 2052

(1)

The note discounts are amortized to interest expense over the respective term of each debt obligation using the effective interest method.

(2)

Includes the effects of the discount at issuance.

(3)

NNN entered into forward starting swaps which were hedging the risk of changes in forecasted interest payments on forecasted issuance of long-term debt. Upon the issuance of a series of unsecured notes, NNN terminated such derivatives, and the resulting fair value was deferred in other comprehensive income. The deferred liability (asset) is being amortized over the term of the respective notes using the effective interest method.

(4)

The aggregate principal balance of the unsecured note maturities for the next five years is $1,900,000.

(5)

NNN plans to use proceeds from the Credit Facility and/or potential debt or equity offerings to repay the outstanding debt.

Each series of the notes represents senior, unsecured obligations of NNN and is subordinated to all secured debt of NNN. NNN may redeem each series of notes in whole or in part at any time prior to the par call date for the notes at the redemption price as set forth in the applicable supplemental indenture relating to the notes; provided, however, that if NNN redeems the notes on or after the par call date, the redemption price will equal 100 percent of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to, but not including, the redemption date.

In connection with the outstanding debt offerings, NNN incurred debt issuance costs totaling $42,595,000 consisting primarily of underwriting discounts and commissions, legal and accounting fees, rating agency fees and printing expenses. Debt issuance costs for all note issuances have been deferred and presented as a reduction to notes payable and are being amortized over the term of the respective notes using the effective interest method.

In March 2021, NNN redeemed the$350,000,000 3.300% notes payable that were due in April 2023. The notes were redeemed at a price equal to 100 percent of the principal amount, plus (i) a make-whole amount of$21,328,000, and (ii) all accrued and unpaid interest.

In accordance with the terms of the indentures, pursuant to which NNN's notes have been issued, NNN is required to meet certain restrictive financial covenants, which, among other things, require NNN to maintain (i) certain leverage ratios and (ii) certain interest coverage. At December 31, 2023, NNN was in compliance with each of the financial covenants.

In accordance with the guidance on derivatives and hedging, NNN records all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges.

NNN's objective in using derivatives is to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements or other identified risks. To accomplish this objective, NNN primarily uses treasury locks, forward starting swaps and interest rate swaps as part of its cash flow hedging strategy. Treasury locks and forward starting swaps are used to hedge forecasted debt issuances. Treasury locks designated as cash flow hedges lock in the yield/price of a treasury security. Forward starting swaps also lock the associated swap spread. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges are used to hedge the variable cash flows associated with floating rate debt and involve the receipt or payment of variable rate amounts in exchange for fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying principal amount.

For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, the change in the fair value of the derivative is initially reported in other comprehensive income (outside of earnings) and subsequently reclassified to earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings.

NNN discontinues hedge accounting prospectively when it is determined that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged item, the derivative expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised, the derivative is re-designated as a hedging instrument or management determines that designation of the derivative as a hedging instrument is no longer appropriate. When hedge accounting is discontinued, NNN recognizes any changes in its fair value in earnings and continues to carry the derivative on the balance sheet or may choose to settle the derivative at that time with a cash payment or receipt. NNN records a cash settlement of forward starting swaps in the statement of cash flows as an operating activity.

The following table outlines NNN's terminated derivatives which were hedging the risk of changes in forecasted interest payments on forecasted issuance of long-term debt (dollars in thousands):

NotesPayableTerminatedDescriptionAggregateNotionalAmountLiability (Asset)Fair Value WhenTerminatedFair ValueDeferredIn OtherComprehensiveIncome(1)
2024May 2014Three forward starting swaps$225,000$6,312$6,312
2025October 2015Four forward starting swaps300,00013,36913,369
2026December 2016Two forward starting swaps180,000(13,352)(13,345)
2027September 2017Two forward starting swaps250,0007,6907,688
2028September 2018Two forward starting swaps250,000(4,080)(4,080)
2030March 2020Three forward starting swaps200,00013,14113,141
2052September 2021Two forward starting swaps120,0001,5841,584

(1)

The amount reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on the related notes payable.

As of December 31, 2023,$10,111,000 remains in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to NNN's previously terminated interest rate hedges. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, NNN reclassified$2,471,000,$2,374,000 and$3,073,000, respectively, out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as an increase to interest expense. Over the next 12 months, NNN estimates that an additional$2,152,000 will be reclassified as an increase in interest expense. Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on NNN's long-term debt.

NNN does not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. NNN had no derivative financial instruments outstanding at December 31, 2023.

Note 6 – Preferred Stock:

In October 2021, NNN redeemed all outstanding depositary shares (13,800,000) representing interests in its 5.200% Cumulative Redeemable Series F Preferred Stock ("Series F Preferred Stock"). The Series F Preferred Stock was redeemed at $25.00 per depositary share ($345,000,000), plus all accrued and unpaid dividends through, but not including, the redemption date, for an aggregate redemption price of $25.111944 per depositary share. The excess carrying amount of the Series F Preferred Stock redeemed over the cash paid to redeem the Series F Preferred Stock was $10,897,000, representing issuance costs which is reflected as a reduction to earnings attributable to common stockholders.

NNN declared and paid $1.086944 per share ($14,999,000) to stockholders for NNN's Series F Preferred Stock during the year ended December 31, 2021.

NNN's authorized capital stock includes 15,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, NNN hadno shares of preferred stock issued and outstanding.

Note 7 – Common Stock:

Universal Shelf Registration Statement. In August 2023, NNN filed a shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") which became automatically effective (“Universal Shelf”). The Universal Shelf permits the issuance by NNN of an indeterminate amount of debt and equity securities, including preferred stock, depositary shares, common stock, stock purchase contracts, rights, warrants and units. NNN may periodically offer one or more of these securities in amounts, prices and on terms to be announced when and if these securities are offered. The specifics of any future offerings along with the use of proceeds of any securities offered, will be described in detail in a prospectus supplements, or other offering materials, at the time of any offering.

At-The-Market Offerings. NNN has established an at-the-market equity program ("ATM") which allows NNN to sell shares of common stock from time to time. The following table outlines NNN's ATM:

2023 ATM2020 ATM
Shelf registration statement:
Effective dateAugust 2023August 2020
Termination dateAugust 2026August 2023
Total allowable shares17,500,00017,500,000
Total shares issued as of December 31, 2023—7,722,511

The following table outlines the common stock issuances pursuant to NNN's ATM for the years ended December 31 (dollars in thousands, except per share data):

202320222021
Shares of common stock650,1355,473,07230,000
Average price per share (net)$43.52$45.15$33.65
Net proceeds$28,292$247,129$1,009
Stock issuance costs(1)$858$3,761$224

(1)

Stock issuance costs consist primarily of underwriters' and agent's fees and commissions, and legal and accounting fees.

Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan. In February 2021, NNN filed a shelf registration statement with the Commission, which is effective for a term of three years, for its Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan ("DRIP") which permits the issuance by NNN of up to 6,000,000 shares of common stock. The following outlines the common stock issuances pursuant to NNN's DRIP for the years ended December 31 (dollars in thousands):

202320222021
Shares of common stock76,22970,34262,577
Net proceeds$3,082$3,082$2,744

Dividends. The following table outlines the dividends declared and paid for NNN's common stock for the years ended December 31 (in thousands, except per share data):

202320222021
Dividends$404,458$380,538$367,291
Per share2.2302.1602.100

On January 16, 2024, NNN declared a dividend of$0.5650 per share, payable February 15, 2024, to its common stockholders of record as of January 31, 2024.

Note 8 – Employee Benefit Plan:

Effective January 1, 1998, NNN adopted a defined contribution retirement plan (the “Retirement Plan”) covering all of the eligible associates of NNN. The Retirement Plan permits participants to defer a portion of their compensation, as defined in the Retirement Plan, subject to limits established by the Code. NNN generally matches 75 percent of the first four percent and 50 percent of the next five percent of a participant's contributions. Additionally, NNN may make discretionary contributions. NNN recorded contributions to the Retirement Plan of$734,000,$590,000 and$576,000, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 respectively.

Note 9 – Performance Incentive Plan:

In August 2023, NNN filed a registration statement on Form S-8 with the Commission which amended NNN's 2017 Performance Incentive Plan to increase the maximum aggregate share issuance from 1,800,000 to 4,800,000 shares of common stock and certain other limits under the plan (the plan as amended, the “2017 Plan”). The 2017 Plan allows NNN to award or grant to key associates, directors and persons performing consulting or advisory services for NNN or its affiliates, stock options, phantom stock awards, Stock Awards, Restricted Stock Awards, Stock Appreciation Rights and Performance Awards, each as defined in the 2017 Plan.

There wereno stock options outstanding or exercisable at December 31, 2023.

Pursuant to the 2017 Plan, NNN has granted and issued shares of restricted stock to certain officers and key associates of NNN. The following summarizes the restricted stock activity for the year ended December 31, 2023:

Number ofSharesWeightedAverageShare Price
Non-vested restricted shares, January 1991,201$46.06
Restricted shares granted335,27846.29
Restricted shares vested(228,394)52.09
Restricted shares forfeited(59,961)56.20
Non-vested restricted shares, December 311,038,12444.23

Compensation expense for the restricted stock which is not contingent upon NNN's performance goals is determined based upon the fair value at the date of grant and is recognized as the greater of the amount amortized over a straight-lined basis or the amount vested over the vesting periods. Vesting periods for officers and key associates of NNN range from three tofive years and generally vest annually. NNN recognizes compensation expense on a straight-line basis for awards with only service conditions.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, NNN granted 204,094 performance-based shares subject to its total stockholder return after athree-year period relative to its peers. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation ("ASC 718"), the fair value of these shares was determined using a Monte Carlo simulation model at the grant date (for a weighted average fair value share price of $29.65). The performance-based shares were granted to certain executive officers and had a weighted average grant price of $46.70 per share. Once the respective performance criteria are met and the number of shares earned is determined, the shares vest immediately. Compensation expense is recognized over the requisite service period.

The following summarizes other grants made during the year ended December 31, 2023, pursuant to the 2017 Plan.

Number of SharesWeightedAverage Share Price
Other share grants under the 2017 Plan:
Directors’ fees12,344$41.42
Deferred directors’ fees21,05641.51
33,40041.48
Shares available under the 2017 Plan for grant, end of period4,761,552

The total compensation expense for share-based payments for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 totaled $12,228,000, $15,449,000 and $14,296,000, respectively. At December 31, 2023, NNN had $12,150,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements under the 2017 Plan. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.2 years.

Note 10 – Fair Value of Financial Instruments:

NNN believes the carrying value of its Credit Facility approximates fair value based upon its nature, terms and variable interest rate. NNN believed that the carrying value of its mortgages payable at December 31, 2022, approximate fair value based upon current market prices of comparable instruments (Level 3). NNN had no mortgages payable outstanding at December 31, 2023. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the fair value of NNN's notes payable excluding unamortized discount and debt costs, were$3,801,367,000 and$3,140,774,000, respectively, based upon quoted market prices as of the close of the year, which is a Level 1 valuation since NNN's notes payable are publicly traded.

Note 11 – Segment Information:

For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, NNN's operations are reported withinone reportable segment in the consolidated financial statements and all properties are part of the Properties or Property Portfolio.

Note 12 – Major Tenants:

As of December 31, 2023, NNN had no tenants that accounted for ten percent or more of its rental income.

Note 13 – Commitments and Contingencies:

A summary of NNN's commitments are included in Note 2 – Real Estate.

In the ordinary course of its business, NNN is a party to various other legal actions which management believes are routine in nature and incidental to the operation of the business of NNN. Management does not believe that any of these proceedings are material to NNN's consolidated financial statements.

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