Whitestone REIT
Annual Report 2012

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M T e u l a V g n i v i r D , c i f f a r T g n i v i r D A N N U A L R E P O R T 2012 Creating Communities in Our Properties TM The Shops at Pecos Ranch • Chandler, AZ Dear Fellow Shareholders: I am pleased to report that this year was noteworthy for Whitestone REIT as we continued to implement our value-add strategy, demonstrating the success of our Community Centered PropertyTM business model. Virtually every key measure of our business improved in 2012, which confirms to us that we are filling a void in the marketplace. Our achievements this year are the result of our team of Whitestone associates who continue to strive for higher levels of excellence and increased profitability for our shareholders. We expect the upward trend to continue as we extract the intrinsic value embedded in the vacancies and undeveloped land in our portfolio. This year our shareholders received a 27.6% total return, which exceeded the SNL REIT Index and met our goal of providing an annual total return of 15%. We are pleased with our Accomplishments and Progress for the year, and have assessed Where We Can Improve in 2013 and the years ahead as we grow the company. NYSE:WSR Total Return Performance 27.60% 17.77% NYSE : WSR MSCI US REIT (RMS) 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Our Accomplishments in 2012… …are highlighted with another solid year of value-add growth. We strengthened our balance sheet, grew our asset base to over $400 million, and now own 51 Community Centered PropertiesTM including three development sites, in four of the fastest growing cities in the Unites States. We Strengthened our Balance Sheet and Capital Base by financially engineering our capital structure to assure the lowest cost of capital, yet sought to conservatively protect our downside with relatively low leverage and a broad diversification of tenants. We strive to maintain this financial flexibility and liquidity to protect against unforeseen economic climate changes. Having survived numerous real estate downturns since the 80’s and most recently the recession of 2007–2009, I’ve learned that leading through these cycles provides the reward of upside opportunities to capitalize upon when others may find themselves financially constrained, and gives us a competitive advantage when making acquisitions and in attracting new tenants. Real Estate Debt/ Total Real Estate Assets (Percent) 50 Total Assets - Debt:Equity (Dollars in Millions) $450 40 30 20 10 0 $400 $350 $300 $250 $200 $150 $100 0 DEBT EQUITY Dec '11 Mar '12 Jun '12 Sep '12 Dec '12 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 Before South Richey • Houston, TX Reposition & Rebrand Our 2012-2013 financing activities include an increase in our unsecured line of credit, raising our borrowing capacity to $175 million (expandable to $225 million) from $20 million in 2010. We also accessed the equity capital markets through an oversubscribed overnight public offering of our common shares for our first time, raising $58.7 million in net proceeds. This, with the successful conversion of our Class A common shares and Operating Partnership Units to common shares, our trading liquidity increased to an average of over 100,000 shares a day in 2012. When we moved from the NYSE MKT (formerly NYSE/AMEX) to the NYSE and were included to the RMZ REIT and Russell 2000 indexes, we were able to appeal to a broader audience of institutional investors. We Grew our Asset Base to Over $400 Million in 2012 with the acquisition of five Community Centers totaling $108 million, all located in the greater Phoenix, Arizona, where we now own 13 Community Centers, approximately 1.3 million square feet of leasable space, plus two development sites totaling approximately 9.15 acres. Twelve of our Phoenix properties were acquired in single off-market purchases since 2010 from property owners, banks and special servicers, and were closed at a pace that has earned us high marks for certainty of closing by doing what we say we are going to do. Our acquisition pipeline of off-market deals remains strong and is in excess of $500 million as of the end of the first quarter 2013. Gross Real Estate Assets (Dollars in Millions) ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 $400 $250 $200 $300 $350 $150 $100 $50 $0 We own 51 Community Centered PropertiesTM located in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Phoenix, and Chicago totaling approximately 4.3 million square feet. We have over 1000 tenants, 70% of which are small businesses whose services target their surrounding local communities. It is not just what we own; it is what we do with what we own that creates value. In essence, we are creating a culture of engagement with our tenants and their customers by improving their experience and profitability through the people we hire, the tenant mix we assemble, and the layout or design of the property. We transform properties to meet the local community ethnic and demographic profile. For example, our South Richey Center is located in an Hispanic area, and occupancy had declined due to previous tenanting that did not target this demographic. We assigned our Hispanic bi-lingual team of property manager and leasing agent to service the Center, and specifically targeted Bravo Ranch SuperMercado, a well-established grocer to replace a national grocer, as well as complementary tenants to fill the adjacent space. We also repainted in colors selected specifically to appeal to the cultural interest of the neighborhood. The result: tenant revenues and customer traffic are up and the project is a smashing success! This is a Changing Environment for Retail Property Owners. The move from “Bricks to Clicks” is rapidly becoming a reality, affecting the dynamics of our industry with a dramatic impact on real estate uses. The physical bricks & morter footprint has changed as more retail goods are ordered online for home delivery. Small businesses are Before Terravita Marketplace • Scottsdale, AZ Reposition & Rebrand where we go to get a haircut, have our clothes cleaned, and our pets groomed. We believe consumers have re-evaluated their spending habits, and they are less likely to go to a mall to purchase goods, and more likely to go to a Starbucks® for a service experience. We target the retail service sector with a tenant mix of food, healthcare, education and related services to create synergy and compatibility, Driving Traffic, Driving ValueTM. We offer smaller lease spaces averaging 3,000 square feet, so that, as of December 31, 2012, no single tenant can impact our revenues by more than 1.2% if they move out. We typically break vacant big box spaces that go dark into smaller spaces rather than searching for and re-leasing to another big box tenant. In doing so, we receive higher rents per square foot than on our larger spaces and reduce our risk. Real Estate Houses the Economy. We House the American Dream with service-based small business entrepreneurs in filling our small space real estate. Our typical tenant’s net worth is invested in his or her business. Many are first generation Americans seeking a better life for their families as they grow and nurture their business. Each one of our Centers represents a different community, and whether it serves an Asian, Latino, Indian, Jewish or Anglo market, our work is in determining the tenant mix that provides a culturally enriched environment and creates a profitable Community Centered PropertyTM. Our business model is unique and difficult to replicate. from other We believe we traditional commercial retail REITs and only some competition from small private investors. It is complex less competition face and took years to develop, yet simple to operate. We believe we have a relatively open field in front of us as a buyer, owner and operator of the Community Centered PropertyTM business model. We remain nimble and quick: raising capital in an efficient overnight manner and closing on new acquisitions in fewer than 22 days. However, it is important that we continue benchmark our accomplishments and strive to continuing for higher enhancements, to tenant processes and systems, and broaden the skillsets of our people. levels of excellence by develop service Our Progress in 2012… … was in launching Programs and Processes that will pay off in the next two to three years by lowering overall costs and increasing our profit margins. We intend for these new initiatives to sharpen our competitive edge in every community where we own real estate. Our goal is to be the Community Center tenants prefer. Our progress toward this goal is highlighted below: 1. We Increased the Visibility and Visual Appeal of our Centers and attracted new high-value/high-potential service based tenants to drive traffic. Using innovative tools such as colored LCD lighted artificial trees to enhance the entryways, our tenants’ customers experience a fresh new and inviting look that increases traffic and visit frequency. 2. We Repositioned and Rebranded our Centers with a mix of new paint colors, enhanced lighting and enriched landscaping to set the localized target theme and achieve the proper tenant mix. We believe it is imperative to compete against the repetitive nature of “sameness” in Before Shops at Pinnacle Peak • Scottsdale, AZ Reposition & Rebrand today’s retail shopping centers. We strive to identify which tenants drive traffic to our Community Centers and then fine tune a compatible yet unique tenant mix that meets the needs of their shared customer base. For example, our Shops of Pinnacle Center is comprised of predominantly woman-owned businesses who target female customers. Our edgy new paint color palatte and lighting was designed to appeal to our tenant’s customers, and they love it! 3. We Improved Traffic Circulation and Parking so our tenants can better serve their customers. Creating the right flow and circulation of the physical aspects of the property blends the mix of uses to provide a competitive advantage and synergy, strengthening rental pricing in our Community Centers. 4. We added our Signature Community Gathering Areas wherever we can by opening up areas such as space around a Starbucks® or a cigar store. We install outdoor misting systems for use on extremely hot days, or gas fireplaces for cool evenings. We look for and invest in entrepreneurial tenants that have a good prospect for success. We strive to understand what our tenant’s customers truly value (i.e., time, ease of access, availability or a unique experience). When needed, we may redevelop select Centers to create our Signature Community Gathering Area. 5. We Implemented a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System to enhance our competitive edge. Our system interfaces important information between property managers, leasing agents, space planners, construction and management. In 2012, we added iPads to monitor our CRM system that brings our work onto the property and hands-on with the tenant. 6. Finally, we Beta Tested and Implemented iPads to Monitor our Tenants and Collect Rent. Our overall goal is to have an advance warning system to alert us if a tenant is in trouble, needs more space or simply needs us to fix a broken pipe. This technology provides opportunities for us to have monthly face time with our tenants, as opposed to simply mailing an invoice for rent. We believe that by enhancing the tenant experience and providing payment convenience, we can increase productivity, efficiency, data collection, and profitability. The Beta test was successful and we are now rolling out our iPad program to all of our property managers. Next we will test iPads with our leasing associates. These six areas are a few examples of what we do in creating street appeal within each of our properties and enhancing services that help our small business tenants grow their business. These initiatives, along with our strategic acquisitions, drive revenues - as demonstrated by our 33% revenue growth rate in 2012 as compared to 2011. Revenues (Dollars in Millions) $50 $45 $40 $35 $30 $25 $20 $15 $10 $5 $0 Net Operating Income (NOI) (Dollars in Millions) $35 $30 $25 $20 $15 $10 $5 $0 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 Dana Park at Village Square • Mesa, AZ Where We Can Improve… … is to Capture the Intrinsic Value Embedded in our Centers as Quickly as Possible. We buy Community Centers off-market and at the right price. They have ranged from 20% to 95% in occupancy. When we make an acquisition, we look for cash-on-cash return in excess of 7%, including the vacant portion of the property as well as the undeveloped land. When we increase the occupancy to a stabilized 93-95%, we expect double-digit returns on our initial investment. The cost of land and out- parcels is built into the purchase price. When we build on the developed land and out-parcels, we seek to achieve percent returns in the high teens to mid-20’s. Any tail wind from the economy or inflation we take as a bonus. The Intrinsic Value is the difference between the value of a partially leased but physically complete property when it is acquired, and the value of a fully leased property when the occupancy is stabilized at 93-95% and the development is complete. When we aggregate the Intrinsic Value for Whitestone as an Enterprise, it is the difference between Net Asset Value (“NAV”) and Enterprise Value which is added to NAV. Annual Dividend Payout vs. True Intrinsic Value (Per Share) $1.54 $0.16 $0.42 $1.14 $1.14 $0.96 $1.60 $1.40 $1.20 $1.00 $0.80 $0.60 $0.40 $0.20 $0.00 Annual Dividend Payout Total Intrinsic Value We intend to capture the Intrinsic Value that is embedded in our portfolio of Community Centered PropertiesTM over the next two years. This value would be added to FFO and is estimated at $0.58/per share. Portfolio-wide, it is comprised of approximately 600,000 square feet of vacant space, three undeveloped land parcels with the capacity to add approximately 235,000 square feet of future leasable space, and six fully developed outparcel padsites that could add approximately 40,000 square feet of future leasable space, as summarized in the table below: Estimation of Our Intrinsic Value: I. Lease Up Potential Market HOUSTON DALLAS PHOENIX CHICAGO Vacant SF 95% Occupancy (1) Property NOI (2) Level FFO (3) SF Leased to Achieve Increase to Increase to Corporate 258,808 141,177 $1,411,769 $1,230,603 72,097 50,335 906,030 805,094 299,046 236,600 4,022,203 3,603,539 3,255 1,182 24,827 22,549 633,206 429,294 $6,364,830 $5,661,785 Expense Reimbursement (4) Total Lease Up Intrinsic Value II. Development Potential Land Outparcels GLA 275,000 25,000 Total Dev Intrinsic Value 300,000 Total Intrinsic Value Total Intrinsic Value per Share (6) $1,717,177 $1,717,177 $8,082,007 $7,378,963 $2,543,750(5) $241,250(5) $2,785,000 $10,163,963 $0.58 Dividend Payout Development Value Lease Up Value FFO Core* *Annualized to include the impact of 2012 acquisitions. See the calculation and reconciliation of our proforma FFO Core per share for 2012 on page R-4. (1) While 95% occupancy is a target management seeks to obtain, there can be no assurance that we will obtain 95% occupancy at all or any of our properties in the next two years, if at all. (2) Reflects estimated current market rents times the SF Leased to achieve 95% Occupancy. (3) Reflects estimated current market rents times the SF Leased to achieve 95% Occupancy minus estimated 7% cost of capital times estimated tenant improvements capital costs required for lease up. (4) Reflects estimated expense reimbursement rate of $4.00 per SF times the SF Leased to achieve 95% Occupancy. (5) Reflects estimated revenues received upon lease up minus 7% cost of capital for build costs. There can be no assurance that we will be able to complete development at a reasonable cost in the next two years, if at all. (6) Based on weighted average share count of 17,585,000. Fountain Square • Scottsdale, AZ At year-end 2012, FFO Core per share was $0.90, which includes Centers that were not owned for a full year. Pro forma FFO Core1 for 2012, including a full year for our 2012 acquisitions, would have been $0.96 per share. By focusing on our well defined plans and targeted processes, we expect to lease the vacant space in our portfolio to 95% and develop the land parcels and pad sites when the time is right. The result: an increase of over $10 million to FFO, or $0.58 per share, based on our current number of common shares outstanding. Funds From Operations - Core (Dollars in Millions) $14 FFO-Core / Share (in thousands) $1.6 $12 $10 $8 $6 $4 $2 $0 $1.4 $1.2 $1.0 $0.8 $0.6 $0.4 $0.2 $0 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 Our team is on track to capture and add Intrinsic Value to our FFO-Core/share as we assess Our Accomplishments in 2012, continue our Progress, and recognize Where We Can Improve. We continue to build on our strengths and adjust our course throughout the year toward our annual targets and longterm goals. A Look to the Future Our strength is our people. We carefully select and retain only those who have demonstrated a desire to pursue 1 Assumes 2012 acquisitions were owned for a full year and our August 2012 offering of common shares was completed on January 1, 2012. See the calculation and reconciliation of our pro forma FFO Core per share for 2012 on page R- 4. knowledge and an understanding of real estate in the Whitestone culture. We train, educate and provide the necessary tools for them to be successful. Our accomplishments and progress this year are a result of our work together toward our common goal of increasing shareholder value. We realize that we have room to improve and have made the necessary changes to advance our strategic plan while we implement our unique business model. Based upon or acquisition pipeline, assuming available capital, we believe that we can reach $1 billion in assets within the next two years with modest increases in overhead, and add another $2 billion within three to five years to reach $3 billion in assets. Our short term goal for 2013 is to: 1. Drive FFO/share to exceed our current dividend by extracting our intrinsic value, 2. Initiate our first development project on land we own, and 3. Align our management team for growth. In closing, I would like to thank you for your continued confidence and support, and for the privilege you have given me to lead Whitestone. James C. Mastandrea Chairman and CEO Paradise Plaza • Phoenix, AZ Financial Highlights Operations (in thousands) Revenues Funds From Operations Funds From Operations-Core Net Operating Income Net Income Attributable to Whitestone REIT Per Share and OP Unit Diluted FFO Per Common Share and OP Unit Diluted FFO-Core Per Common Share and OP Unit Diluted Earnings Per Share Financial Position (in thousands) Shareholders’ Equity Real Estate Assets, Gross Operational Metrics Occupancy - Operating Portfolio Number of Total Tenants Tenants < 3,000 sf Tenants > 3,000 sf 2012 $ 46,554 $ 10,273 $ 13,017 $ 28,915 $ 50 $ 0.71 $ 0.90 $ 0.00 $ 172,887 $ 409,669 87% 1,066 743 323 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 2011 34,915 8,707 9,627 21,588 1,123 0.81 0.89 0.12 130,707 292,360 87% 915 659 256 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 2010 31,533 8,432 7,920 19,250 1,105 1.44 1.35 0.27 84,283 204,954 86% 792 561 231 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 2009 32,685 8,618 6,759 19,694 1,342 1.68 1.32 0.40 66,859 192,832 82% 773 552 221 Base rent per sf < 3,000 sf Tenants $ 15.16 $ 13.27 $ 13.15 $ 15.88 Shareholder’s Equity (in thousands) $180,000 Total Assets - Debt:Equity (in thousands) $400 $160,000 $140,000 $120,000 $100,000 $80,000 $60,000 $40,000 $20,000 $0 $350 $300 $250 $200 $150 $100 $50 0 Operating Portfolio Occupancy* Operating Results (in thousands) 88% 87% 86% 85% 84% 83% 82% 81% 80% 79% $45,000 $40,000 $35,000 $30,000 $25,000 $20,000 $15,000 $10,000 $5000 $0 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 Revenues ‘10 ‘11 ‘12 Net Operating Income (NOI) *Operating Portfolio = excludes new acquisitions, through the earlier of (1) attainment of 90% occupancy or 18 months of ownership, and (2) properties which are undergoing significant redevelopment or re-tenanting. Tenant logos used in this Annual Report are representative of a portion of our tenants within our portfolio of Community Centered Properties.TM. This 2012 Annual Report contains forward looking statements. Such forward-looking statements can generally be identified by our use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “continue,” or other similar words. Readers of this 2012 Annual Report should be aware that there are various factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statements made in this report. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, changes in general economic and business conditions, industry trends, changes in government rules and regulations (including changes in tax laws) and environmental rules and regulations. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this 2012 Annual Report. For a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures, including FFO-Core, please see the reconciliation on page R1 of this 2012 Annual Report. UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 ____________________________________ FORM 10-K (Mark One) ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012 OR TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from ____________ to ____________ Commission File Number: 001-34855 ______________________________ WHITESTONE REIT (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter) Maryland (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) 2600 South Gessner, Suite 500, Houston, Texas (Address of Principal Executive Offices) 76-0594970 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) 77063 (Zip Code) Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (713) 827-9595 Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Title of each class Common Shares of Beneficial Interest, par value $0.001 per share Name of each exchange on which registered New York Stock Exchange Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None (Title of Class) Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes No No Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes No Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes No Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one): Large accelerated filer Smaller reporting company Accelerated filer Non-accelerated filer (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes No The aggregate market value of the common shares held by nonaffiliates of the registrant as of June 29, 2012 (the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter) was $163,615,328 based on the closing price of common shares of $13.81 per share as reported on the New York Stock Exchange. As of March 11, 2013, the registrant had 16,991,629 common shares of beneficial interest, $0.001 par value per share, outstanding. DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: We incorporate by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K portions of our definitive proxy statement for our 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be filed subsequently with the Securities and Exchange Commission. WHITESTONE REIT FORM 10-K Year Ended December 31, 2012 PART I Item 1. Item 1A. Item 1B. Item 2. Item 3. Item 4. Business. Risk Factors. Unresolved Staff Comments. Properties. Legal Proceedings. Mine Safety Disclosures. PART II Item 5. Item 6. Item 7. Item 7A. Item 8. Item 9. Item 9A. Item 9B. PART III Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. Selected Financial Data. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. Controls and Procedures. Other Information. Item 10. Item 11. Item 12. Item 13. Item 14. Trustees, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance. Executive Compensation. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence. Principal Accountant Fees and Services. PART IV Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules. SIGNATURES. Page 1 5 19 19 24 24 25 28 31 52 52 52 53 53 54 54 54 54 54 55 56 Table of Contents Unless the context otherwise requires, all references in this report to the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” are to Whitestone REIT and its consolidated subsidiaries. Forward-Looking Statements This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements, including discussion and analysis of our financial condition, anticipated capital expenditures required to complete projects, amounts of anticipated cash distributions to our shareholders in the future and other matters. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts but are the intent, belief or current expectations of our management based on its knowledge and understanding of our business and industry. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the use of terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “potential,” “predicts,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates” or the negative of such terms and variations of these words and similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, are difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements that were true at the time made may ultimately prove to be incorrect or false. You are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect our management’s view only as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We undertake no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statements made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K include: • • • • • • • • • • the imposition of federal taxes if we fail to qualify as a real estate investment trust ("REIT") in any taxable year or forego an opportunity to ensure REIT status; uncertainties related to the national economy, the real estate industry in general and in our specific markets; legislative or regulatory changes, including changes to laws governing REITs; adverse economic or real estate developments in Texas, Arizona or Illinois; increases in interest rates and operating costs; inability to obtain necessary outside financing; litigation risks; lease-up risks; inability to obtain new tenants upon the expiration of existing leases; inability to generate sufficient cash flows due to market conditions, competition, uninsured losses, changes in tax or other applicable laws; and • the need to fund tenant improvements or other capital expenditures out of operating cash flow. The forward-looking statements should be read in light of these factors and the factors identified in the “Risk Factors” section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Table of Contents Item 1. Business. General PART I We are a Maryland REIT engaged in owning and operating commercial properties in culturally diverse markets in major metropolitan areas. Founded in 1998, we changed our state of organization from Texas to Maryland in December 2003. We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). We are internally managed and, as of December 31, 2012, we owned a real estate portfolio of 51 properties containing approximately 4.3 million square feet of gross leasable area, located in Texas, Arizona and Illinois. Our property portfolio has a gross book value of approximately $410 million and book equity, including noncontrolling interests, of approximately $173 million as of December 31, 2012. Our common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share, are currently traded on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE") under the ticker symbol "WSR." Our offices are located at 2600 South Gessner, Suite 500, Houston, Texas 77063. Our telephone number is (713) 827-9595 and we maintain a website at www.whitestonereit.com. Our Strategy In October 2006, our current management team joined the company and adopted a strategic plan to acquire, redevelop, own and operate Community Centered Properties. We define Community Centered Properties as visibly located properties in established or developing culturally diverse neighborhoods in our target markets. We market, lease and manage our centers to match tenants with the shared needs of the surrounding neighborhood. Those needs may include specialty retail, grocery, restaurants and medical, educational and financial services. Our goal is for each property to become a Whitestone-branded business center or retail community that serves a neighboring five-mile radius around our property. We employ and develop a diverse group of associates who understand the needs of our multicultural communities and tenants. Our primary business objective is to increase shareholder value by acquiring, owning and operating Community Centered Properties. The key elements of our strategy include: • Strategically Acquiring Properties. Seeking High Growth Markets. We seek to strategically acquire commercial properties in high-growth markets. Our acquisition targets are located in densely populated, culturally diverse neighborhoods, primarily in and around Phoenix, Chicago, Dallas, San Antonio and Houston. Diversifying Geographically. Our current portfolio is concentrated in Houston. We believe that continued geographic diversification in markets where we have substantial knowledge and experience will help offset the economic risk from a single market concentration. We intend to continue to focus our expansion efforts on the Phoenix, Chicago, Dallas and San Antonio markets. We believe our management infrastructure and capacity can accommodate substantial growth in those markets. We may also pursue opportunities in other Southwestern and Western regions that are consistent with our Community Centered Property strategy. Capitalizing on Availability of Distressed Assets. We believe that during the next several years there will continue to be excellent opportunities in our target markets to acquire quality properties at historically attractive prices. We intend to acquire distressed assets directly from owners or financial institutions holding foreclosed real estate and debt instruments that are either in default or on bank watch lists. Many of these assets may benefit from our corporate strategy and our management team’s experience in turning around distressed properties, portfolios and companies. We have extensive relationships with community banks, attorneys, title companies, and others in the real estate industry with whom we regularly work to identify properties for potential acquisition. 1 • Redeveloping and Re-tenanting Existing Properties. We “turn around” properties and seek to add value through renovating and re-tenanting our properties to create Whitestone-branded Community Centered Properties. We seek to accomplish this by (1) stabilizing occupancy, with per property occupancy goals of 90% or higher; (2) adding leasable square footage to existing structures; (3) developing and building on excess land; (4) upgrading and renovating existing structures; and (5) investing significant effort in recruiting tenants whose goods and services meet the needs of the surrounding neighborhood. • Recycling Capital for Greater Returns. We seek to continually upgrade our portfolio by opportunistically selling properties that do not have the potential to meet our Community Centered Property strategy and redeploying the sale proceeds into properties that better fit our strategy. Some of our properties that were acquired prior to the tenure of our current management team may not fit our Community Centered Property strategy, and we may look for opportunities to dispose of these properties as we continue to execute our strategy. • Prudent Management of Capital Structure. We currently have 24 properties that are not mortgaged. We may seek to add mortgage indebtedness to existing and newly acquired unencumbered properties to provide additional capital for acquisitions. As a general policy, we intend to maintain a ratio of total indebtedness to undepreciated book value of real estate assets that is less than 60%. As of December 31, 2012, our ratio of total indebtedness to undepreciated book value of real estate assets was 47%. • Investing in People. We believe that our people are the heart of our culture, philosophy and strategy. We continually focus on developing associates who are self-disciplined and motivated and display at all times a high degree of character and competence. We provide them with equity incentives to align their interests with those of our shareholders. Our Structure Substantially all of our business is conducted through Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership organized in 1998 (the “Operating Partnership”). We are the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership. As of December 31, 2012, we owned a 96.1% interest in the Operating Partnership. As of December 31, 2012, we owned a real estate portfolio consisting of 51 properties located in three states. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, our Operating Portfolio Occupancy Rate was 87% based on gross leasable area. We define Operating Portfolio Occupancy Rate as physical occupancy on all properties, excluding (i) new acquisitions, through the earlier of attainment of 90% occupancy or 18 months of ownership, and (ii) properties that are undergoing significant redeveloping or re-tenanting. We take a very hands-on approach to ownership, and directly manage the operations and leasing of our properties. Substantially all of our revenues consist of base rents received under long-term leases. For the year ended December 31, 2012, our total revenues were approximately $46.6 million. Approximately 62% of our existing leases contain “step up” rental clauses that provide for increases in the base rental payments. As of December 31, 2012, we had two properties that when combined, accounted for more than 10% of total gross revenue and real estate assets. Uptown Tower is an office building located in Dallas, Texas that accounted for 7.8% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012. Uptown Tower also accounted for 4.5% of our real estate assets, net of accumulated depreciation, for the year ended December 31, 2012. Village Square at Dana Park, or Dana Park, a retail community purchased on September 21, 2012 and located in the Mesa submarket of Phoenix, Arizona, accounted for 3.3% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012. Dana Park also accounted for 13.0% of our real estate assets, net of accumulated depreciation, for the year ended December 31, 2012. Of our 51 properties, 30 are located in the Houston, Texas metropolitan area. Economic Factors The recent economic recession continues to negatively impact the volume of real estate transactions, occupancy levels, tenants’ ability to pay rent and cap rates. Each of these factors could negatively impact the value of public real estate companies, including ours. However, the vast majority of our retail properties are located in densely populated metropolitan areas and are occupied by tenants that generally provide basic necessity-type items and services and tend to be less affected by economic changes. Furthermore, our portfolio is primarily positioned in metropolitan areas in Texas that have been impacted less by the economic slow down compared to other metropolitan areas. 2 Competition All of our properties are located in areas that include competing properties. The amount of competition in a particular area could impact our ability to acquire additional real estate, sell current real estate, lease space and the amount of rent we are able to charge. We may be competing with owners, developers and operators, including, but not limited to, real estate investors, other REITs, insurance companies and pension funds. Should we decide to dispose of a property, we may compete with third-party sellers of similar types of commercial properties for suitable purchasers, which may result in our receiving lower net proceeds from a sale or in our not being able to dispose of such property at a time of our choosing due to the lack of an acceptable return. In operating and managing our properties, we compete for tenants based upon a number of factors including, but not limited to, location, rental rates, security, flexibility, expertise to design space to meet prospective tenants' needs and the manner in which the property is operated, maintained and marketed. We may be required to provide rent concessions, incur charges for tenant improvements and other inducements, or we may not be able to timely lease vacant space, all of which would adversely impact our results of operations. Many of our competitors have greater financial and other resources than us and also may have more operating experience. Generally, there are other neighborhood and community retail centers within relatively close proximity to each of our properties. There is, however, no dominant competitor in the Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Phoenix or Chicago metropolitan areas. Our retail tenants also face increasing competition from outlet malls, internet discount shopping clubs, catalog companies, direct mail and telemarketing. Compliance with Governmental Regulations Under various federal and state environmental laws and regulations, as an owner or operator of real estate, we may be required to investigate and clean up certain hazardous or toxic substances, asbestos-containing materials, or petroleum product releases at our properties. We may also be held liable to a governmental entity or to third parties for property damage and for investigation and cleanup costs incurred by those parties in connection with the contamination. In addition, some environmental laws create a lien on the contaminated site in favor of the government for damages and costs it incurs in connection with the contamination. The presence of contamination or the failure to remediate contaminations at any of our properties may adversely affect our ability to sell or lease the properties or to borrow using the properties as collateral. We could also be liable under common law to third parties for damages and injuries resulting from environmental contamination coming from our properties. We will not purchase any property unless we are generally satisfied with the environmental status of the property. We may obtain a Phase I environmental site assessment, which includes a visual survey of the building and the property in an attempt to identify areas of potential environmental concerns, visually observing neighboring properties to assess surface conditions or activities that may have an adverse environmental impact on the property, and contacting local governmental agency personnel and performing a regulatory agency file search in an attempt to determine any known environmental concerns in the immediate vicinity of the property. A Phase I environmental site assessment does not generally include any sampling or testing of soil, groundwater or building materials from the property. We believe that our properties are in compliance in all material respects with all federal, state and local ordinances and regulations regarding the handling, discharge and emission of hazardous or toxic substances. During the re-financing of twenty-one of our properties in late 2008 and early 2009, Phase I environmental site assessments were completed at those properties. These assessments revealed that five of the twenty-one properties currently or previously had a dry cleaning facility as a tenant. Since release of chlorinated solvents can occur as a result of dry cleaning operations, a Phase II subsurface investigation was conducted at the five identified properties, and all such investigations revealed the presence of chlorinated solvents. Based on the findings of the Phase II subsurface investigations, we promptly applied for entry into the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Dry Cleaner Remediation Program, or DCRP, for four of the identified properties and were accepted. Upon entry, and continued good standing with the DCRP, the DCRP administers the Dry Cleaning Remediation fund to assist with remediation of contamination caused by dry cleaning solvents. The response actions associated with the ongoing investigation and subsequent remediation, if necessary, have not been determined at this time. 3 However, we believe that the costs of such response actions will be immaterial, and therefore no liability has been recorded in our financial statements. We have not been notified by any governmental authority, and are not otherwise aware, other than the five identified properties described above, of any material noncompliance, liability or claim relating to hazardous or toxic substances in connection with any of our present or former properties. Nevertheless, it is possible that the environmental assessments conducted thus far and currently available to us do not reveal all potential environmental liabilities. It is also possible that subsequent investigations will identify material contamination or other adverse conditions, that adverse environmental conditions have arisen subsequent to the performance of the environmental assessments, or that there are material environmental liabilities of which management is unaware. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, all places of public accommodation are required to meet certain federal requirements related to access and use by disabled persons. Our properties must comply with the ADA to the extent that they are considered “public accommodations” as defined by the ADA. The ADA may require removal of structural barriers to access by persons with disabilities in public areas of our properties where such removal is readily achievable. We believe that our properties are in substantial compliance with the ADA and that we will not be required to make substantial capital expenditures to address the requirements of the ADA. In addition, we will continue to assess our compliance with the ADA and to make alterations to our properties as required. Employees As of December 31, 2012, we had 68 employees. Materials Available on Our Website Copies of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports, as well as Reports on Forms 3, 4 and 5 regarding our officers, trustees or 10% beneficial owners, filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a), 15(d) or 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) are available free of charge through our website (www.whitestonereit.com) as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file the material with, or furnish it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). We have also made available on our website copies of our Audit Committee Charter, Compensation Committee Charter, Nominating and Governance Committee Charter, Insider Trading Compliance Policy, and Code of Business Conduct and Ethics Policy. In the event of any changes to these charters, the code or guidelines, revised copies will also be made available on our website. You may also read and copy any materials we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC also maintains an internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC as we do. The website address is http://www.sec.gov. Materials on our website are not part of our Annual Report on Form 10-K. Financial Information Additional financial information related to the Company is included in Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” 4 Table of Contents Item 1A. Risk Factors. In addition to the other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the following risk factors should be considered carefully in evaluating our business. Our business, financial condition, results of operations or the trading price of our common shares could be materially adversely affected by any of these risks. Please note that additional risks not presently known to us or which we currently consider immaterial may also impair our business and operations. Risks Associated with Real Estate Recent market disruptions may significantly and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. The U.S. economy is still experiencing weakness from recent economic conditions, which resulted in increased unemployment, weakening of tenant financial condition, large-scale business failures and tight credit markets. Our results of operations may be sensitive to changes in overall economic conditions that impact tenant leasing practices. Adverse economic conditions affecting tenant income, such as employment levels, business conditions, interest rates, tax rates, fuel and energy costs and other matters, could reduce overall tenant leasing or cause tenants to shift their leasing practices. In addition, periods of economic slowdown or recession, rising interest rates or declining demand for real estate, or the public perception that any of these events may occur, could result in a general decline in rents or an increased incidence of defaults under existing leases. Although the U.S. economy is beginning to emerge from the recent recession, high levels of unemployment have persisted, and rental rates and valuations for retail space have not fully recovered to pre-recession levels and may not for a number of years. At this time, it is difficult to determine the breadth and duration of the impact of the economic and financial market problems and the many ways in which they could affect our tenants and our business in general. A general reduction in the level of tenant leasing could adversely affect our ability to maintain our current tenants and gain new tenants, affecting our growth and profitability. Accordingly, continuation or further worsening of these difficult financial and macroeconomic conditions could have a significant adverse effect on our cash flows, profitability, results of operations and the trading price of our common shares. Real estate property investments are illiquid due to a variety of factors and therefore we may not be able to dispose of properties when appropriate or on favorable terms. Our strategy includes opportunistically selling properties that do not have the potential to meet our Community Centered Property strategy. However, real estate property investments generally cannot be disposed of quickly. In addition, the Code imposes certain restrictions on the ability of a REIT to dispose of properties that are not applicable to other types of real estate companies. Therefore, we may not be able to vary our portfolio in response to economic or other conditions promptly or on favorable terms, which could cause us to incur extended losses, reduce our cash flows and adversely affect distributions to shareholders. We cannot predict whether we will be able to sell any property for the price or on the terms set by us or whether any price or other terms offered by a prospective purchaser would be acceptable to us. We also cannot predict the length of time needed to find a willing purchaser and to close the sale of a property. To the extent we are unable to sell any properties for our book value, we may be required to take a non-cash impairment charge or loss on the sale, either of which would reduce our net income. We may be required to expend funds and time to correct defects or to make improvements before a property can be sold. We cannot assure you that we will have funds available to correct those defects or to make those improvements, which may impede our ability to sell a property. Further, we may agree to transfer restrictions that materially restrict us from selling a property for a period of time or impose other restrictions, such as a limitation on the amount of debt that can be placed or repaid on that property. These transfer restrictions would impede our ability to sell a property even if we deem it necessary or appropriate. These facts and any others that would further contribute to the illiquid character of real estate properties and impede our ability to respond to adverse changes in the performance of our properties may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, our ability to make distributions to our shareholders and the trading price of our common shares. 5 Table of Contents Our business is dependent upon our tenants successfully operating their businesses, and their failure to do so could have a material adverse effect on our ability to successfully and profitably operate our business. We depend on our tenants to operate their businesses in a manner which generates revenues sufficient to allow them to meet their obligations to us, including their obligations to pay rent, maintain certain insurance coverage, pay real estate taxes and maintain the properties in a manner so as not to jeopardize their operating licenses or regulatory status. The ability of our tenants to fulfill their obligations under our leases may depend, in part, upon the overall profitability of their operations. Cash flow generated by certain tenant businesses may not be sufficient for a tenant to meet its obligations to us. Our financial position could be weakened and our ability to fulfill our obligations under our indebtedness could be limited if a number of our tenants were unable to meet their obligations to us or failed to renew or extend their relationship with us as their lease terms expire, or if we were unable to lease or re-lease our properties on economically favorable terms. These adverse developments could arise due to a number of factors, including those described in the risk factors discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Turmoil in capital markets could adversely impact acquisition activities and pricing of real estate assets. Volatility in capital markets could adversely affect acquisition activities by impacting certain factors, including the tightening of underwriting standards by lenders and credit rating agencies and the significant inventory of unsold collateralized mortgage backed securities in the market. These factors directly affect a lender's ability to provide debt financing as well as increase the cost of available debt financing. As a result, we may not be able to obtain favorable debt financing in the future or at all. This may impair our ability to acquire properties or result in future acquisitions generating lower overall economic returns, which may adversely affect our results of operations and distributions to shareholders. Furthermore, any turmoil in the capital markets could adversely impact the overall amount of capital available to invest in real estate, which may result in price or value decreases of real estate assets. The value of investments in our common shares will be directly affected by general economic and regulatory factors we cannot control or predict. Investments in real estate typically involve a high level of risk as the result of factors we cannot control or predict. One of the risks of investing in real estate is the possibility that our properties will not generate income sufficient to meet operating expenses or will generate income and capital appreciation, if any, at rates lower than those anticipated or available through investments in comparable real estate or other investments. The following factors may affect income from properties and yields from investments in properties and are generally outside of our control: • • • • • • • • • • conditions in financial markets; over-building in our markets; a reduction in rental income as the result of the inability to maintain occupancy levels; adverse changes in applicable tax, real estate, environmental or zoning laws; changes in general economic conditions; a taking of any of our properties by eminent domain; adverse local conditions (such as changes in real estate zoning laws that may reduce the desirability of real estate in the area); acts of God, such as hurricanes, earthquakes or floods and other uninsured losses; changes in supply of or demand for similar or competing properties in an area; changes in interest rates and availability of permanent debt capital, which may render the sale of a property difficult or unattractive; and • periods of high interest rates, inflation or tight money supply. 6 Table of Contents Some or all of these factors may affect our properties, which could adversely affect our operations and ability to pay dividends to shareholders. We may face significant competition in our efforts to acquire financially distressed properties and debt. Our acquisition strategy includes acquiring distressed commercial real estate, and we could face significant competition from other investors, REITs, hedge funds, private equity funds and other private real estate investors with greater financial resources and access to capital than us. Therefore, we may not be able to compete successfully for investments. In addition, the number of entities and the amount of purchasers competing for suitable investments may increase, all of which could result in competition for accretive acquisition opportunities and adversely affect our business plan and our ability to maintain our current dividend rate. All of our properties are subject to property taxes that may increase in the future, which could adversely affect our cash flow. Our properties are subject to property taxes that may increase as property tax rates change and as the properties are assessed or reassessed by taxing authorities. As the owner of the properties we are ultimately responsible for payment of the taxes to the government. If property taxes increase, our tenants may be unable to make the required tax payments, ultimately requiring us to pay the taxes. In addition, we will generally be responsible for property taxes related to any vacant space in our properties. Our assets may be subject to impairment charges. We periodically evaluate our real estate investments and other assets for impairment indicators. The judgment regarding the existence of impairment indicators is based on factors such as market conditions, tenant performance and legal structure. If we determine that a significant impairment has occurred, we would be required to make an adjustment to the net carrying value of the asset, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and funds from operations in the period in which the write-off occurs. Compliance or failure to comply with laws requiring access to our properties by disabled persons could result in substantial cost. The ADA and other federal, state and local laws generally require public accommodations be made accessible to disabled persons. Noncompliance could result in the imposition of fines by the government or the award of damages to private litigants. These laws may require us to modify our existing properties. These laws may also restrict renovations by requiring improved access to such buildings by disabled persons or may require us to add other structural features which increase our construction costs. Legislation or regulations adopted in the future may impose further burdens or restrictions on us with respect to improved access by disabled persons. We may incur unanticipated expenses that may be material to our financial condition or results of operations to comply with ADA and other federal, state and local laws, or in connection with lawsuits brought by private litigants. We face intense competition, which may decrease, or prevent increases of, the occupancy and rental rates of our properties. We compete with a number of developers, owners and operators of commercial real estate, many of whom own properties similar to ours in the same markets in which our properties are located. If our competitors offer space at rental rates below current market rates, or below the rental rates we currently charge our tenants, we may lose existing or potential tenants and we may be pressured to reduce our rental rates below those we currently charge or to offer more substantial rent abatements, tenant improvements, early termination rights or below-market renewal options in order to retain tenants when our tenants' leases expire. This competitive environment could have a material adverse effect on our ability to lease our properties or any newly developed or acquired property, as well as on the rents charged. 7 Table of Contents Risks Associated with Our Operations Because a majority of our gross leasable area is in the Houston metropolitan area, an economic downturn in the Houston metropolitan area could adversely impact our operations and ability to pay dividends to our shareholders. The majority of our assets and revenues are currently derived from properties located in the Houston metropolitan area. As of December 31, 2012, we had 55% of our gross leasable area in Houston. Our results of operations are directly contingent on our ability to attract financially sound commercial tenants. A significant economic downturn in the Houston metropolitan area may adversely impact our ability to locate and retain financially sound tenants and could have an adverse impact on our tenants' revenues, costs and results of operations and may adversely affect their ability to meet their obligations to us. Likewise, we may be required to lower our rental rates to attract desirable tenants in such an environment. Consequently, because of the geographic concentration among our current assets, if the Houston metropolitan area experiences an economic downturn, our operations and ability to pay dividends to our shareholders could be adversely impacted. We lease our properties to approximately 1,100 tenants, with leases for approximately 10% to 20% of our gross leasable area expiring annually. Each year we face the risk of non-renewal of a material percentage of our leases and the cost of re- leasing a significant amount of our available space, and our failure to meet leasing targets and control the cost of re-leasing our properties could adversely affect our rental revenue, operating expenses and results of operations. The nature of our business model warrants shorter term leases to smaller, non-national tenants, and substantially all of our revenues consist of base rents received under these leases. As of December 31, 2012, approximately 34% of the aggregate gross leasable area of our properties is subject to leases that expire prior to December 31, 2014. We are subject to the risk that: • tenants may choose not to, or may not have the financial resources to, renew these leases; • we may experience significant costs associated with re-leasing a significant amount of our available space; • we may not be able to easily re-lease the space subject to these leases, which may cause us to fail to meet our leasing targets or control the costs of re-leasing; and • the terms of any renewal or re-lease may be less favorable than the terms of the current leases. We routinely seek to renew leases with our existing tenants prior to their expiration and typically begin discussions with tenants as early as 18 months prior to the expiration date of the existing lease. While our early renewal program and other leasing and marketing efforts target these expiring leases, and while we hope to re-lease most of that space prior to expiration of the leases at rates comparable to or slightly in excess of the current rates, market conditions, including new supply of properties, and macroeconomic conditions in our markets and nationally could adversely impact our renewal rate and/or the rental rates we are able to negotiate. If any of these risks materialize, our rental revenue, operating expenses and results of operations could be adversely affected. Many of our tenants are small businesses, which may have a higher risk of bankruptcy or insolvency. Many of our tenants are small businesses that depend primarily on cash flows from their businesses to pay their rent and without other resources could be at a higher risk of bankruptcy or insolvency than larger, national tenants. If tenants are unable to comply with the terms of our leases, we may be forced to modify the leases in ways that are unfavorable to us. Alternatively, the failure of a tenant to perform under a lease could require us to declare a default, repossess the space and find a suitable replacement tenant. There is no assurance that we would be able to lease the space on substantially equivalent or better terms than the prior lease, or at all, or successfully reposition the space for other uses. If one or more of our tenants files for bankruptcy relief, the Bankruptcy Code provides that a debtor has the option to assume or reject the unexpired lease within a certain period of time. For example, on November 10, 2008, one of our tenants, Circuit City, which leased space at one of our properties and represented approximately 1.1% of our total rent for the year ended December 31, 2008, filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. The tenant elected to reject our lease. 8 Table of Contents Any bankruptcy filing by or relating to one or more of our tenants could bar all efforts by us to collect pre-bankruptcy debts from that tenant or seize its property. A tenant bankruptcy could also delay our efforts to collect past due balances under the lease and could ultimately preclude collection of all or a portion of these sums. It is possible that we may recover substantially less than the full value of any unsecured claims we hold, if any. Furthermore, dealing with a tenant's bankruptcy or other default may divert management's attention and cause us to incur substantial legal and other costs. The bankruptcy or insolvency of a number of smaller tenants may have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations, our ability to make distributions to our shareholders and the trading price of our common shares. Uninsured losses relating to real property or excessively expensive premiums for insurance coverage may adversely affect our returns. We attempt to adequately insure all of our properties to cover casualty losses. However, there are types of losses, generally catastrophic in nature, such as losses due to wars, acts of terrorism, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, pollution or environmental matters, which are uninsurable or not economically insurable, or may be insured subject to limitations, such as large deductibles or co-payments. Our current geographic concentration in the Houston metropolitan area potentially increases the risk of damage to our portfolio due to hurricanes. Insurance risks associated with potential terrorism acts could sharply increase the premiums we pay for coverage against property and casualty claims. In some instances, we may be required to provide other financial support, either through financial assurances or self-insurance, to cover potential losses. We cannot assure you that we will have adequate coverage for these losses. Also, to the extent we must pay unexpectedly large insurance premiums, we could suffer reduced earnings that would result in less cash to be distributed to shareholders. Discovery of previously undetected environmentally hazardous conditions may adversely affect our operating results. Under various federal, state and local environmental laws, ordinances and regulations, a current or previous owner or operator of real property may be liable for the cost of removal or remediation of hazardous or toxic substances on, under or in its property. The costs of removal or remediation could be substantial. These laws often impose liability whether or not the owner or operator knew of, or was responsible for, the presence of any hazardous or toxic substances. Environmental laws also may impose restrictions on the manner in which property may be used or businesses may be operated, and these restrictions may require substantial expenditures. Environmental laws provide for sanctions in the event of noncompliance and may be enforced by governmental agencies or, in certain circumstances, by private parties. Certain environmental laws and common law principles could be used to impose liability for release of and exposure to hazardous substances, including asbestos containing materials into the air. In addition, third parties may seek recovery from owners or operators of real properties for personal injury or property damage associated with exposure to released hazardous substances. The cost of defending against claims of liability, of compliance with environmental regulatory requirements, of remediating any contaminated property, or of paying personal injury claims could materially adversely affect our business, assets or results of operations and, consequently, amounts available for distributions to our shareholders. Certain of our properties currently include or have in the past included a dry cleaning facility as a tenant. See "Business - Compliance with Governmental Regulations." We may not be successful in consummating suitable acquisitions or investment opportunities, which may impede our growth and adversely affect the trading price of our common shares. Our ability to expand through acquisitions is integral to our business strategy and requires us to consummate suitable acquisition or investment opportunities that meet our criteria and are compatible with our growth strategy. We may not be successful in consummating acquisitions or investments in properties that meet our acquisition criteria on satisfactory terms or at all. Failure to consummate acquisitions or investment opportunities, or to integrate successfully any acquired properties without substantial expense, delay or other operational or financial problems, would slow our growth, which could in turn adversely affect the trading price of our common shares. Our ability to acquire properties on favorable terms may be constrained by the following significant risks: • • competition from other real estate investors with significant capital, including other REITs and institutional investment funds; competition from other potential acquirers which may significantly increase the purchase price for a property we acquire, which could reduce our growth prospects; • unsatisfactory results of our due diligence investigations or failure to meet other customary closing conditions; and 9 Table of Contents • failure to finance an acquisition on favorable terms or at all. If any of these risks are realized, our business, financial condition and results of operations, our ability to make distributions to our shareholders and the trading price of our common shares may be materially and adversely affected. Our success depends in part on our ability to execute our Community Centered Property strategy. Our Community Centered Property strategy requires intensive management of a large number of small spaces and small tenant relationships. Our success depends in part upon our management's ability to identify potential Community Centered Properties and find and maintain the appropriate tenants to create such a property. Lack of market acceptance of our Community Centered Property strategy or our inability to successfully attract and manage a large number of tenant relationships could adversely affect our occupancy rates, operating results and dividend rate. Loss of our key personnel, particularly our senior managers, could threaten our ability to execute our strategy and operate our business successfully. We are dependent on the experience and knowledge of our key executive personnel, particularly certain of our senior managers who have been instrumental in setting our strategic direction, operating our business, identifying, recruiting and training key personnel and arranging necessary financing. Losing the services of any of these individuals could adversely affect our business until qualified replacements could be found. We also believe that they could not quickly be replaced with managers of equal experience and capabilities and their successors may not be as effective. Our systems may not be adequate to support our growth, and our failure to successfully oversee our portfolio of properties could adversely affect our results of operations. We make no assurances that we will be able to adapt our portfolio management, administrative, accounting and operational systems, or hire and retain sufficient operational staff, to support our growth. Our failure to successfully oversee our current portfolio of properties or any future acquisitions or developments could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition and our ability to make distributions. There can be no assurance that we will be able to pay or maintain cash distributions or that distributions will increase over time. There are many factors that can affect the availability and timing of cash distributions to shareholders. Distributions are based upon our funds from operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity, debt service requirements, capital expenditure requirements for our properties and other matters our board of trustees may deem relevant from time to time. If we do not have sufficient cash available for distributions, we may need to fund the shortage out of working capital or borrow to provide funds for such distributions, which would reduce the amount of capital available for real estate investments and increase our future interest costs. We can give no assurance that we will be able to continue to pay distributions or that distributions will increase over time. In addition, we can give no assurance that rents from our properties will increase, or that future acquisitions of real properties, mortgage loans or out investments in securities will increase our cash available for distributions to shareholders. Our actual results may differ significantly from the assumptions used by our board of trustees in establishing the distribution rate to shareholders. Our inability to make distributions, or to make distributions at expected levels, could result in a decrease in the trading price of our common shares. Any weaknesses identified in our system of internal controls by us and our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 could have an adverse effect on our business. Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires that public companies evaluate and report on their systems of internal control over financial reporting. In addition, our independent registered public accounting firm must report on management's evaluation of those controls. In future periods, we may identify deficiencies in our system of internal controls over financial reporting that may require remediation. There can be no assurances that any such future deficiencies identified may not be material weaknesses that would be required to be reported in future periods. 10 Table of Contents Risks Associated with Our Indebtedness and Financing Current market conditions could adversely affect our ability to refinance existing indebtedness or obtain additional financing for growth on acceptable terms or at all, which could adversely affect our ability to grow, our interest cost and our results of operations. The United States credit markets have experienced significant dislocations and liquidity disruptions, including the bankruptcy, insolvency or restructuring of certain financial institutions. These circumstances have materially impacted liquidity in the debt markets, making financing terms for borrowers less attractive, and in certain cases have resulted in the unavailability of various types of debt financing. Reductions in our available borrowing capacity, or inability to refinance our revolving credit facility when required or when business conditions warrant, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we mortgage many of our properties to secure payment of indebtedness. If we are not successful in refinancing our mortgage debt upon maturity, then the property could be foreclosed upon or transferred to the mortgagee, or we might be forced to dispose of some of our properties upon disadvantageous terms, with a consequent loss of income and asset value. A foreclosure or disadvantageous disposal on one or more of our properties could adversely affect our ability to grow, financial condition, interest cost, results of operations, cash flow and ability to pay dividends to our shareholders. Furthermore, if prevailing interest rates or other factors at the time of refinancing result in higher interest rates upon refinancing, then the interest expense relating to that refinanced indebtedness would increase. Higher interest rates on newly incurred debt may negatively impact us as well. If interest rates increase, our interest costs and overall costs of capital will increase, which could adversely affect our transaction and development activity, financial condition, results of operation, cash flow, our ability to pay principal and interest on our debt and our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders. If we invest in mortgage loans, these investments may be affected by unfavorable real estate market conditions, including interest rate fluctuations, which could decrease the value of those loans and the return on your investment. If we invest in mortgage loans, we will be at risk of defaults by the borrowers on those mortgage loans as well as interest rate risks. To the extent we incur delays in liquidating such defaulted mortgage loans, we may not be able to recover all amounts due to us under the mortgage loans. Further, we will not know whether the values of the properties securing the mortgage loans will remain at the levels existing on the dates of origination of those mortgage loans or the dates of our investment in the loans. If the values of the underlying properties fall, our risk will increase because of the lower value of the security associated with such loans. Our failure to hedge effectively against interest rate changes may adversely affect results of operations. We currently have mortgages that bear interest at a variable rate and we may incur additional variable rate debt in the future. Accordingly, increases in interest rates on variable rate debt would increase our interest expense, which could reduce net earnings and cash available for payment of our debt obligations and distributions to our shareholders. We may seek to manage our exposure to interest rate volatility by using interest rate hedging arrangements, such as interest cap agreements and interest rate swap agreements. These agreements involve risks, such as the risk that counterparties may fail to honor their obligations under these arrangements, that these arrangements may not be effective in reducing our exposure to interest rate changes and that a court could rule that such an agreement is not legally enforceable. In the past, we have used derivative financial instruments to hedge interest rate risks related to our variable rate borrowings. We will not use derivatives for speculative or trading purposes and intend only to enter into contracts with major financial institutions based on their credit rating and other factors, but we may choose to change this practice in the future. As of December 31, 2012, we had a fixed rate hedge on $7.9 million of our variable rate debt. We may enter into additional interest rate swap agreements for our variable rate debt not currently subject to hedges, which totaled $92.7 million as of December 31, 2012. Hedging may reduce the overall returns on our investments. Failure to hedge effectively against interest rate changes may materially adversely affect our results of operations. 11 Table of Contents We currently have and may incur additional mortgage indebtedness and other borrowings, which may increase our business risks and may adversely affect our ability to make distributions to our shareholders. If it is determined to be in our best interests, we may, in some instances, acquire real properties by using either existing financing or borrowing new funds. In addition, we may incur or increase our current mortgage debt to obtain funds to acquire additional properties. We may also borrow funds if necessary to satisfy the REIT distribution requirement described above, or otherwise as may be necessary or advisable to assure that we maintain our qualification as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. On February 4, 2013, we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into an unsecured credit facility (the "2013 Facility"). We will use the 2013 Facility for acquisitions, redevelopment of value-add properties in our portfolio and general corporate purposes. The 2013 Facility amends and restates the $125 million unsecured revolving credit facility entered into on February 27, 2012. In addition to retaining a $125 million unsecured revolving loan, the 2013 Facility also includes a $50 million term loan and permits the Operating Partnership to increase the borrowing capacity under the 2013 Facility to a total of $225 million, upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. As of December 31, 2012, $69.0 million was drawn on our previous credit facility. On February 4, 2013, we drew $69.0 million on the 2013 Facility, which replaced the $69.0 million drawn on the previous credit facility. Like our previous credit facility, the 2013 Facility contains customary terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as information reporting requirements, maximum secured indebtedness to total asset value, minimum EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization or extraordinary items) to fixed charges and maintenance of a minimum net worth. The amount available to us and our ability to borrow from time to time under the 2013 Facility is subject to our compliance with these requirements. We may also incur mortgage debt on a particular property if we believe the property's projected cash flow is sufficient to service the mortgage debt. As of December 31, 2012, we had approximately $121.6 million of mortgage debt secured by 27 of our properties. If there is a shortfall in cash flow, however, the amount available for distributions to shareholders may be affected. In addition, incurring mortgage debt increases the risk of loss because defaults on such indebtedness may result in loss of property in foreclosure actions initiated by lenders. For tax purposes, a foreclosure of any of our properties would be treated as a sale of the property for a purchase price equal to the outstanding balance of the debt secured by the mortgage. If the outstanding balance of the debt secured by the mortgage exceeds our tax basis in the property, we would recognize taxable income on foreclosure, but would not receive any cash proceeds. We may give lenders full or partial guarantees for mortgage debt incurred by the entities that own our properties. When we give a guaranty on behalf of an entity that owns one of our properties, we will be responsible to the lender for satisfaction of the debt if it is not paid by that entity. If any mortgages contain cross-collateralization or cross-default provisions, there is a risk that more than one property may be affected by a default. If any of our properties are foreclosed upon due to a default, our ability to pay cash distributions to our shareholders may be adversely affected. For more discussion, see “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources.” If we set aside insufficient working capital or are unable to secure funds for future tenant improvements, we may be required to defer necessary property improvements, which could adversely impact our ability to pay cash distributions to our shareholders. When tenants do not renew their leases or otherwise vacate their space, it is possible that, in order to attract replacement tenants, we may be required to expend substantial funds for tenant improvements and tenant refurbishments to the vacated space. If we have insufficient working capital reserves, we will have to obtain financing from other sources. Because most of our leases provide for tenant reimbursement of operating expenses, we have not established a permanent reserve for maintenance and repairs for our properties. However, to the extent that we have insufficient funds for such purposes, we may establish reserves for maintenance and repairs of our properties out of cash flow generated by operating properties or out of non-liquidating net sale proceeds. If these reserves or any reserves otherwise established are insufficient to meet our cash needs, we may have to obtain financing from either affiliated or unaffiliated sources to fund our cash requirements. We cannot assure you that sufficient financing will be available or, if available, will be available on economically feasible terms or on terms acceptable to us. Additional borrowing for working capital purposes will increase our interest expense, and therefore our financial condition and our ability to pay cash distributions to our shareholders may be adversely affected. In addition, we may be required to defer necessary improvements to our properties that may cause our properties to suffer from a greater risk of obsolescence or a decline in value, or a greater risk of decreased cash flow as a result of fewer potential tenants being attracted to our properties. If this happens, we may not be able to maintain projected rental rates for affected properties, and our results of operations may be negatively impacted. 12 Table of Contents We may structure acquisitions of property in exchange for limited partnership units in our Operating Partnership on terms that could limit our liquidity or our flexibility. We may acquire properties by issuing limited partnership units in our Operating Partnership, or OP units, in exchange for a property owner contributing property to the Operating Partnership. If we enter into such transactions, in order to induce the contributors of such properties to accept OP units, rather than cash, in exchange for their properties, it may be necessary for us to provide them with additional incentives. For instance, our Operating Partnership's limited partnership agreement provides that any holder of OP units may redeem such units for cash, or, at our option, common shares on a one-for-one basis. We may, however, enter into additional contractual arrangements with contributors of property under which we would agree to redeem a contributor's OP units for our common shares or cash, at the option of the contributor, at set times. If the contributor required us to redeem OP units for cash pursuant to such a provision, it would limit our liquidity and thus our ability to use cash to make other investments, satisfy other obligations or pay distributions. Moreover, if we were required to redeem OP units for cash at a time when we did not have sufficient cash to fund the redemption, we might be required to sell one or more properties to raise funds to satisfy this obligation. Furthermore, we might agree that if distributions the contributor received as a limited partner in our Operating Partnership did not provide the contributor with a defined return, then upon redemption of the contributor's OP units, we would pay the contributor an additional amount necessary to achieve that return. Such a provision could further negatively impact our liquidity and flexibility. Finally, in order to allow a contributor of a property to defer taxable gain on the contribution of property to our Operating Partnership, we might agree not to sell a contributed property for a defined period of time or until the contributor redeemed the contributor's OP units for cash or our common shares. Such an agreement would prevent us from selling those properties, even if market conditions made such a sale favorable to us. We may issue preferred shares with a preference in distributions over our common shares, and our ability to issue preferred shares and additional common shares may deter or prevent a sale of our common shares in which you could profit. Our declaration of trust authorizes our board of trustees to issue up to 400,000,000 common shares and 50,000,000 preferred shares. Our board of trustees may amend our declaration of trust from time to time to increase or decrease the aggregate number of shares or the number of any class or series that we have authority to issue. In addition, our board of trustees may classify or reclassify any unissued common shares or preferred shares and may set the preferences, rights and other terms of the classified or reclassified shares. The terms of preferred shares could include a preference in distributions senior to our common shares. If we authorize and issue preferred shares with a distribution preference senior to our common shares, payment of any distribution preferences of outstanding preferred shares would reduce the amount of funds available for the payment of distributions on our common shares. Further, holders of preferred shares are normally entitled to receive a preference payment in the event we liquidate, dissolve or wind up before any payment is made to our common shareholders, likely reducing the amount our common shareholders would otherwise receive upon such an occurrence. In addition, under certain circumstances, the issuance of preferred shares or a separate class or series of common shares may render more difficult or tend to discourage: • • • a merger, tender offer or proxy contest; assumption of control by a holder of a large block of our shares; or removal of incumbent management. Risks Associated with Income Tax Laws If we fail to qualify as a REIT, our operations and dividends to shareholders would be adversely impacted. We intend to continue to be organized and to operate so as to qualify as a REIT under the Code. A REIT generally is not taxed at the corporate level on income it currently distributes to its shareholders. Qualification as a REIT involves the application of highly technical and complex rules for which there are only limited judicial or administrative interpretations. The determination of various factual matters and circumstances not entirely within our control may affect our ability to continue to qualify as a REIT. In addition, new legislation, new regulations, administrative interpretations or court decisions could significantly change the tax laws, possibly with retroactive effect, with respect to qualification as a REIT or the federal income tax consequences of such qualification. If we were to fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year: • we would not be allowed to deduct our distributions to shareholders when computing our taxable income; 13 Table of Contents • we would be subject to federal income tax (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) on our taxable income at regular corporate rates; • we would be disqualified from being taxed as a REIT for the four taxable years following the year during which qualification was lost, unless entitled to relief under certain statutory provisions; • our cash available for dividends to shareholders would be reduced; and • we may be required to borrow additional funds or sell some of our assets in order to pay corporate tax obligations that we may incur as a result of our disqualification. If the Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, were to determine that (i) we failed the 5% asset test for the first quarter of our 2009 taxable year and (ii) our failure of that test was not attributable to reasonable cause, but rather, willful neglect, we would fail to qualify as a REIT for our 2009 taxable year, which would adversely affect our operations and our shareholders. In 2010, we discovered that we may have inadvertently violated the 5% asset test for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 as a result of utilizing a certain cash management arrangement with a commercial bank. If that investment in a commercial paper investment account is not treated as cash, and is instead treated as a security for purposes of the quarterly 5% asset test applicable to REITs, then we would have failed that test for the first quarter of our 2009 taxable year. If the IRS were to assert that we failed the 5% asset test for the first quarter of our 2009 taxable year and that such failure was not due to reasonable cause, and the courts were to sustain that position, our status as a REIT would terminate as of December 31, 2008. We would not be eligible to again elect REIT status until our 2014 taxable year. Consequently, we would be subject to federal income tax on our taxable income at regular corporate rates and our cash available for distributions to shareholders would be reduced. Additionally, if we in fact failed the 5% test, but failure is considered due to reasonable cause and not willful neglect, we would be subject to a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or 35% of the net income from the commercial paper investment account during the period in which we failed to satisfy the 5% asset test. The amount of such tax is $50,000 and we paid such tax on April 27, 2010. We may need to incur additional borrowings to meet the REIT minimum distribution requirement and to avoid excise tax. In order to maintain our qualification as a REIT, we are required to distribute to our shareholders at least 90% of our annual real estate investment trust taxable income (excluding any net capital gain and before application of the dividends paid deduction). In addition, we are subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the amount, if any, by which certain distributions paid by us with respect to any calendar year are less than the sum of (i) 85% of our ordinary income for that year, (ii) 95% of our net capital gain for that year and (iii) 100% of our undistributed taxable income from prior years. Although we intend to pay distributions to our shareholders in a manner that allows us to meet the 90% distribution requirement and avoid this 4% excise tax, we cannot assure you that we will always be able to do so. Our income consists almost solely of our share of our Operating Partnership's income, and the cash available for distribution by us to our shareholders consists of our share of cash distributions made by our Operating Partnership. Because we are the sole general partner of our Operating Partnership, our board of trustees determines the amount of any distributions made by it. Our board of trustees may consider a number of factors in authorizing distributions, including: • • • • the amount of the cash available for distribution; our Operating Partnership's financial condition; our Operating Partnership's capital expenditure requirements; and our annual distribution requirements necessary to maintain our qualification as a REIT. 14 Table of Contents Differences in timing between the actual receipt of income and actual payment of deductible expenses and the inclusion of income and deduction of expenses when determining our taxable income, as well as the effect of nondeductible capital expenditures and the creation of reserves or required debt amortization payments could require us to borrow funds on a short-term or long-term basis or make taxable distributions to our shareholders of our shares or debt securities to meet the REIT distribution requirement and to avoid the 4% excise tax described above. In these circumstances, we may need to borrow funds to avoid adverse tax consequences even if our management believes that the then prevailing market conditions generally are not favorable for borrowings or that borrowings would not be advisable in the absence of the tax consideration. If our Operating Partnership were classified as a “publicly traded partnership” taxable as a corporation for federal income tax purposes under the Code, we would cease to qualify as a REIT and would suffer other adverse tax consequences. We structured our Operating Partnership so that it would be classified as a partnership for federal income tax purposes. In this regard, the Code generally classifies “publicly traded partnerships” (as defined in Section 7704 of the Code) as associations taxable as corporations (rather than as partnerships), unless substantially all of their taxable income consists of specified types of passive income. In order to minimize the risk that the Code would classify our Operating Partnership as a “publicly traded partnership” for tax purposes, we placed certain restrictions on the transfer and/or redemption of partnership units in our Operating Partnership. If the IRS were to assert successfully that our Operating Partnership is a “publicly traded partnership,” and substantially all of its gross income did not consist of the specified types of passive income, the Code would treat our Operating Partnership as an association taxable as a corporation. In such event, the character of our assets and items of gross income would change and would prevent us from continuing to qualify as a REIT. In addition, the imposition of a corporate tax on our Operating Partnership would reduce our amount of cash available for payment of distributions by us to our shareholders. Complying with REIT requirements may cause us to forego otherwise attractive opportunities or liquidate otherwise attractive investments. To qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes, we must continually satisfy tests concerning, among other things, the sources of our income, the nature and diversification of our assets, the amounts we distribute to our shareholders and the ownership of our shares. In order to meet these tests, we may be required to forego investments we might otherwise make. Thus, compliance with the REIT requirements may hinder our performance. In particular, we must ensure that at the end of each calendar quarter, at least 75% of the value of our assets consists of cash, cash items, government securities and qualified real estate assets. The remainder of our investment in securities (other than government securities and qualified real estate assets) generally cannot include more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer or more than 10% of the total value of the outstanding securities of any one issuer. In addition, in general, no more than 5% of the value of our assets (other than government securities and qualified real estate assets) can consist of the securities of any one issuer, and no more than 25% of the value of our total assets can be represented by the securities of one or more taxable REIT subsidiaries. If we fail to comply with these requirements at the end of any calendar quarter, we must correct the failure within 30 days after the end of the calendar quarter or qualify for certain statutory relief provisions to avoid losing our REIT qualification and suffering adverse tax consequences. As a result, we may be required to liquidate otherwise attractive investments. These actions could have the effect of reducing our income and amounts available for distribution to our shareholders. We may be subject to adverse legislative or regulatory tax changes that could reduce the market price of our common shares. At any time, the federal income tax laws governing REITs or the administrative interpretations of those laws may be amended. We cannot predict when or if any new federal income tax law, regulation, or administrative interpretation, or any amendment to any existing federal income tax law, regulation or administrative interpretation, will be adopted, promulgated or become effective and any such law, regulation, or interpretation may take effect retroactively. We and our shareholders could be adversely affected by any such change in, or any new, federal income tax law, regulation or administrative interpretation. 15 Table of Contents Dividends payable by REITs do not qualify for the reduced tax rates available for some dividends. The maximum tax rate applicable to income from “qualified dividends” payable to U.S. shareholders that are individuals, trusts and estates is 20%. Dividends payable by REITs, however, generally are not eligible for the reduced rates. Although the reduced rates do not adversely affect the taxation of REITs or dividends payable by REITs, the more favorable rates applicable to regular corporate qualified dividends could cause investors who are individuals, trusts and estates to perceive investments in REITs to be relatively less attractive than investments in the stocks of non-REIT corporations that pay dividends, which could adversely affect the value of the shares of REITs, including our common shares. Complying with REIT requirements may limit our ability to hedge effectively and may cause us to incur tax liabilities. The REIT provisions of the Code substantially limit our ability to hedge our liabilities. Any income from a hedging transaction that we enter into to manage risk of interest rate changes, price changes or currency fluctuations with respect to borrowings made or to be made to acquire or carry real estate assets does not constitute “gross income” for purposes of the 75% or 95% gross income tests. To the extent that we enter into other types of hedging transactions, the income from those transactions is likely to be treated as non-qualifying income for purposes of both of the gross income tests. As a result of these rules, we may need to limit our use of advantageous hedging techniques or implement those hedges through taxable REIT subsidiaries. This could increase the cost of our hedging activities because any taxable REIT subsidiary that we may form would be subject to tax on gains or expose us to greater risks associated with changes in interest rates than we would otherwise want to bear. In addition, losses in taxable REIT subsidiaries will generally not provide any tax benefit, except for being carried forward against future taxable income in the taxable REIT subsidiaries. Risks Related to Ownership of our Common Shares Increases in market interest rates may result in a decrease in the value of our common shares. One of the factors that may influence the price of our common shares will be the dividend distribution rate on the common shares (as a percentage of the price of our common shares) relative to market interest rates. If market interest rates rise, prospective purchasers of shares of our common shares may expect a higher distribution rate. Higher interest rates would not, however, result in more funds being available for distribution and, in fact, would likely increase our borrowing costs and might decrease our funds available for distribution. We therefore may not be able, or we may not choose, to provide a higher distribution rate. As a result, prospective purchasers may decide to purchase other securities rather than our common shares, which would reduce the demand for, and result in a decline in the market price of, our common shares. Broad market fluctuations could negatively impact the market price of our common shares. The stock market has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have affected the market price of many companies in industries similar or related to ours and that have been unrelated to these companies' operating performances. These broad market fluctuations could reduce the market price of our common shares. Furthermore, our operating results and prospects may be below the expectations of public market analysts and investors or may be lower than those of companies with comparable market capitalizations. Either of these factors could lead to a material decline in the market price of our common shares. 16 Table of Contents Maryland takeover statutes may deter others from seeking to acquire us and prevent shareholders from making a profit in such transactions. The Maryland General Corporation Law, or the MGCL, contains many provisions, such as the business combination statute and the control share acquisition statute, that are designed to prevent, or have the effect of preventing, someone from acquiring control of us. The business combination statute, subject to limitations, prohibits certain business combinations between us and an “interested shareholder” (defined generally as any person who beneficially owns 10% or more of the voting power of our outstanding voting shares or an affiliate or associate of our company who, at any time within the two-year period prior to the date in question, was the beneficial owner of 10% or more of the voting power of our then outstanding shares) or an affiliate of an interested shareholder for five years after the most recent date on which the person becomes an interested shareholder and thereafter imposes super-majority voting requirements on these combinations. The control share acquisition statute provides that “control shares” of our company (defined as shares which, when aggregated with other shares controlled by the shareholder (except solely by virtue of a revocable proxy), entitle the shareholder to exercise one of three increasing ranges of voting power in electing trustees) acquired in a “control share acquisition” (defined as the direct or indirect acquisition of ownership or control of issued and outstanding control shares) have no voting rights except to the extent approved by our shareholders by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter, excluding all interested shares. We are currently subject to the control share acquisition statute, although our board of trustees may amend our Amended and Restated Bylaws, or our bylaws, without shareholder approval, to exempt any acquisition of our shares from the statute. Our board of trustees has adopted a resolution exempting any business combination with any person from the business combination statute. The business combination statute (if our board of trustees revokes the foregoing exemption) and the control share acquisition statute could delay or prevent offers to acquire us and increase the difficulty of consummating any such offers, even if such a transaction would be in our shareholders' best interest. The MGCL, the Maryland REIT Law and our organizational documents limit shareholders' rights to bring claims against our officers and trustees. The MGCL and the Maryland REIT Law provide that a trustee will not have any liability as a trustee so long as he performs his duties in good faith, in a manner he reasonably believes to be in our best interests, and with the care that an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would use under similar circumstances. In addition, our declaration of trust provides that no trustee or officer will be liable to us or to any shareholder for money damages except to the extent that (a) the trustee or officer actually received an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services, for the amount of the benefit or profit in money, property, or services actually received; or (b) a judgment or the final adjudication adverse to the trustee or officer is entered in a proceeding based on a finding in the proceeding the trustee's or officer's action or failure to act was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty and was material to the cause of action adjudicated in the proceeding. Finally, our declaration of trust authorizes our company to obligate itself, and our bylaws obligate us, to indemnify and advance expenses to our trustees and officers to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law. Our classified board of trustees may prevent others from effecting a change in the control of our board of trustees. We believe that classification of our board of trustees will help to assure the continuity and stability of our business strategies and policies as determined by the board of trustees. However, the classified board provision could have the effect of making the replacement of incumbent trustees more time-consuming and difficult. At least two annual meetings of shareholders, instead of one, will generally be required to effect a change in a majority of our board of trustees. Thus, the classified board provision could increase the likelihood that incumbent trustees will retain their positions. The staggered terms of trustees may delay, defer or prevent a transaction or a change in control that might involve a premium price for our common shares or otherwise be in the best interest of the shareholders. 17 Table of Contents Future offerings of debt, which would be senior to our common shares upon liquidation, and/or preferred equity securities that may be senior to our common shares for purposes of distributions or upon liquidation, may adversely affect the market price of our common shares. In the future, we may attempt to increase our capital resources by making additional offerings of debt or preferred equity securities, including medium-term notes, trust preferred securities, senior or subordinated notes and preferred shares. Upon liquidation, holders of our debt securities and preferred shares and lenders with respect to other borrowings will receive distributions of our available assets prior to the holders of our common shares. Additional equity offerings may dilute the holdings of our existing shareholders or reduce the market price of our common shares, or both. Holders of our common shares are not entitled to preemptive rights or other protections against dilution. Our preferred shares, if issued, could have a preference on liquidating distributions or a preference on distribution payments that could limit our ability to pay distributions to the holders of our common shares. Because our decision to issue securities in any future offering will depend on market conditions and other factors beyond our control, we cannot predict or estimate the amount, timing or nature of our future offerings. Thus, our common shareholders bear the risk of our future offerings reducing the market price of our common shares and diluting their share holdings in us. 18 Table of Contents Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments. None. Item 2. Properties. General As of December 31, 2012, we owned 51 commercial properties, including 30 properties in Houston, four properties in Dallas, one property in Windcrest, Texas, a suburb of San Antonio, 15 properties in the Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona metropolitan areas, and one property in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. Our tenants consist of national, regional and local businesses. Our properties generally attract a mix of tenants who provide basic staples, convenience items and services tailored to the specific cultures, needs and preferences of the surrounding community. These types of tenants are the core of our strategy of creating Whitestone-branded Community Centered Properties. We also believe daily sales of these basic items are less sensitive to fluctuations in the business cycle than higher priced retail items. Our largest tenant represented only 1.2% of our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012. We directly manage the operations and leasing of our properties. Substantially all of our revenues consist of base rents received under leases that generally have terms that range from less than one year to 15 years. Approximately 62% of our existing leases as of December 31, 2012 contain “step up” rental clauses that provide for increases in the base rental payments. The following table summarizes certain information relating to our properties as of December 31, 2012: Gross Leasable Area Average Occupancy as of 12/31/12 Commercial Properties Retail Office/Flex Office Total - Operating Portfolio Redevelopment, New Acquisitions (3) Total 1,970,460 1,201,672 631,841 3,803,973 470,718 4,274,691 Annualized Base Rental Revenue (in thousands) (1) 21,170 8,034 8,264 37,468 88 % $ 89 % 78 % 87% 70 % 85% $ 5,520 42,988 Average Annualized Base Rental Revenue Per Sq. Ft. (2) $ $ 12.21 7.51 16.77 11.32 16.75 11.83 (1) Calculated as the tenant's actual December 31, 2012 base rent (defined as cash base rents including abatements) multiplied by 12. Excludes vacant space as of December 31, 2012. Because annualized base rental revenue is not derived from historical results that were accounted for in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, historical results differ from the annualized amounts. Total abatements for leases in effect as of December 31, 2012 equaled approximately $96,000 for the month ended December 31, 2012. (2) Calculated as annualized base rent divided by gross leasable area leased as of December 31, 2012. Excludes vacant space as of December 31, 2012. (3) Includes (i) new acquisitions, through the earlier of attainment of 90% occupancy or 18 months of ownership, and (ii) properties that are undergoing significant redevelopment or re-tenanting. As of December 31, 2012, we had two properties that when combined, accounted for more than 10% of total gross revenue and/or real estate assets. Uptown Tower is an office building located in Dallas, Texas that accounted for 7.8% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012. Uptown Tower also accounted for 4.5% of our real estate assets, net of accumulated depreciation, for the year ended December 31, 2012. Dana Park, a retail community purchased on September 21, 2012 and located in the Mesa submarket of Phoenix, Arizona, accounted for 3.3% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012. Dana Park also accounted for 13.0% of our real estate assets, net of accumulated depreciation, for the year ended December 31, 2012. 19 Table of Contents As of December 31, 2012, approximately $121.6 million of our total debt of $190.6 million was secured by 27 of our operating properties with a combined net book value of $161.8 million. Location of Properties Of our 51 properties, 35 are located in Texas, with 30 being located in the greater Houston metropolitan statistical area. These 30 properties represent 54% of our revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012. The Houston workforce is concentrated in energy, chemicals, information technology, aerospace sciences and medical sciences. According to the United States Census Bureau, Houston ranked 4th in the largest United States cities as of July 1, 2011. In the Census Bureau’s Estimates of Population Change for Metropolitan Statistical Areas and Rankings: July 1, 2010 to July 1, 2011, Houston ranked second in population growth out of 366 metropolitan statistical areas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Houston was less than the national average in each of the last six months of 2012. July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. 8.2% 7.5% 8.1% 7.0% 7.8% 6.3% 7.9% 6.2% 7.8% 5.8% 7.8% 6.0% (3) National (1) Houston (2) (1) Seasonally adjusted. (2) Not seasonally adjusted. (3) Represents estimate. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 20 Table of Contents General Physical and Economic Attributes The following table sets forth certain information relating to each of our properties owned as of December 31, 2012. Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Property Details As of December 31, 2012 Community Name Location Year Built/ Renovated Gross Leasable Square Feet Percent Occupied at 12/31/2012 Annualized Base Rental Revenue (in thousands) (1) Average Base Rental Revenue Per Sq. Ft. (2) Average Net Effective Annual Base Rent Per Leased Sq. Ft.(3) Retail Communities: Ahwatukee Plaza Bellnot Square Bissonnet Beltway Centre South The Citadel Desert Canyon Gilbert Tuscany Village Holly Knight Kempwood Plaza Lion Square The Marketplace at Central Paradise Plaza Pinnacle of Scottsdale Providence Shaver Shops at Starwood Shops at Pecos Ranch South Richey Spoerlein Commons SugarPark Plaza Sunridge Terravita Marketplace Torrey Square Town Park Webster Pointe Westchase Windsor Park Total/Weighted Average Office Communities: 9101 LBJ Freeway Featherwood Pima Norte Royal Crest Uptown Tower Woodlake Plaza Zeta Building Total/Weighted Average Phoenix Houston Houston Houston Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Houston Houston Houston Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Houston Houston Dallas Phoenix Houston Chicago Houston Houston Phoenix Houston Houston Houston Houston San Antonio Dallas Houston Phoenix Houston Dallas Houston Houston 1979 1982 1978 1974 1985 2000 2009 1984 1974 1980 2000 1983 1991 1980 1978 2006 2009 1980 1987 1974 1979 1997 1983 1978 1984 1978 1992 1985 1983 2007 1984 1982 1974 1982 100% $ 41% 100% 79% 82% 73% 49% 100% 100% 100% 45% 89% 99% 88% 93% 100% 100% 81% 92% 100% 99% 93% 91% 100% 79% 88% 97% 88% 871 293 331 279 335 568 400 351 873 1,090 428 1,263 2,152 731 252 1,468 1,353 385 770 1,010 462 1,292 691 808 219 518 1,977 21,170 $ 11.99 $ 9.67 11.33 9.02 14.31 12.44 16.52 17.54 8.64 9.27 8.56 11.27 19.22 9.20 12.36 26.51 17.18 6.80 20.19 10.63 9.45 13.52 7.18 18.56 10.64 11.87 10.37 12.21 70% $ 1,337 $ 15.17 $ 89% 20% 65% 83% 90% 79% 78% 820 127 244 3,649 1,562 525 8,264 18.52 19.00 15.08 17.31 16.35 17.61 16.77 12.42 9.70 9.11 8.70 21.57 12.49 19.37 17.39 8.46 9.92 8.78 12.65 19.30 8.44 12.55 27.86 17.18 9.00 20.45 10.38 9.35 13.64 7.02 18.24 10.01 12.42 10.00 12.48 15.28 19.13 18.55 14.09 17.05 16.32 17.01 16.65 72,650 73,930 29,205 39,134 28,547 62,533 49,415 20,015 101,008 117,592 111,130 125,898 113,108 90,327 21,926 55,385 78,767 69,928 41,455 95,032 49,359 102,733 105,766 43,526 26,060 49,573 196,458 1,970,460 125,874 49,760 33,417 24,900 253,981 106,169 37,740 631,841 21 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Property Details As of December 31, 2012 (continued) Community Name Location Year Built/ Renovated Gross Leasable Square Feet Percent Occupied at 12/31/2012 Annualized Base Rental Revenue (in thousands) (1) Average Base Rental Revenue Per Sq. Ft. (2) Average Net Effective Annual Base Rent Per Leased Sq. Ft.(3) Office/Flex Communities: Brookhill Corporate Park Northwest Corporate Park West Corporate Park Woodland Dairy Ashford Holly Hall Interstate 10 Main Park Plaza Park West Belt Plaza Westgate Total/Weighted Average Total/Weighted Average - Operating Portfolio Houston Houston Houston Houston Houston Houston Houston Houston Houston Houston Houston Shops at Pinnacle Peak Fountain Square Phoenix Phoenix Village Square at Dana Park Phoenix Total/Weighted Average - Development Portfolio Pinnacle Phase II Phoenix Village Square at Dana Park Phoenix Shops at Starwood Phase III Dallas Total/Weighted Average - Property Held For Development (4) Grand Total/Weighted Average 1979 1981 1999 2000 1981 1980 1980 1982 1982 1978 1984 2000 1986 2009 N/A N/A N/A 74,757 185,627 175,665 99,937 42,902 90,000 151,000 113,410 105,530 65,619 97,225 1,201,672 81% $ 231 $ 79% 96% 100% 99% 100% 82% 96% 79% 80% 100% 89% 1,624 1,288 839 241 737 718 619 757 378 602 8,034 3.81 $ 11.07 7.64 8.40 5.67 8.19 5.80 5.69 9.08 7.20 6.19 7.51 3,803,973 87% 37,468 11.32 41,530 118,209 310,979 470,718 — — — — 76% $ 575 $ 18.22 $ 63% 72% 70% — — — — 1,232 3,713 5,520 — — — — 16.54 16.58 16.75 — — — — 3.77 10.35 7.36 8.28 5.53 8.29 5.97 6.74 9.16 6.88 5.98 7.46 11.43 18.85 16.54 17.61 17.51 — — — — 4,274,691 85% $ 42,988 $ 11.83 $ 12.00 (1) Calculated as the tenant's actual December 31, 2012 base rent (defined as cash base rents including abatements) multiplied by 12. Excludes vacant space as of December 31, 2012. Because annualized base rental revenue is not derived from historical results that were accounted for in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, historical results differ from the annualized amounts. Total abatements for leases in effect as of December 31, 2012 equaled approximately $96,000 for the month ended December 31, 2012. (2) Calculated as annualized base rent divided by gross leasable area leased as of December 31, 2012. Excludes vacant space as of December 31, 2012. (3) Represents (i) the contractual base rent for leases in place as of December 31, 2012, adjusted to a straight-line basis to reflect changes in rental rates throughout the lease term and amortize free rent periods and abatements, but without regard to tenant improvement allowances and leasing commissions, divided by (ii) square footage under commenced leases of December 31, 2012. (4) As of December 31, 2012, these parcels of land were held for development and, therefore, had no gross leasable area. 22 Table of Contents Significant Tenants The following table sets forth information about our fifteen largest tenants as of December 31, 2012, based upon annualized rental revenues at December 31, 2012. Tenant Name Location Annualized Rental Revenue (in thousands) Percentage of Total Annualized Base Rental Revenues Initial Lease Date Year Expiring University of Phoenix Sports Authority Air Liquide America, L.P. Safeway Stores, Incorporated British American Restaurant, LLC Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Inc X-Ray Press Corporation Walgreens #3766 Sterling Jewelers Inc Rock Solid Images Skechers USA, Inc (1) Phoenix Children's Academy Marshall's Merrill Corporation Albertson's #979 San Antonio $ San Antonio Dallas Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix Houston Phoenix Phoenix Houston Multiple locations Phoenix Houston Dallas Phoenix $ 500 495 387 344 334 314 280 279 277 266 250 249 248 248 235 4,706 1.2% 10/18/2010 1.2% 0.9% 1/1/2004 8/1/2001 0.8% 12/22/2011 0.8% 9/21/2012 0.7% 9/21/2012 7/1/1998 0.7% 0.6% 8/9/2011 0.6% 9/21/2012 4/1/2004 0.6% Multiple 0.6% dates 0.6% 12/28/2012 0.6% 5/12/1983 0.6% 12/10/2001 0.5% 8/9/2011 11.0% 2018 2015 2013 2021 2019 2014 2019 2049 2020 2013 2017 2019 2018 2014 2022 (1) At December 31, 2012, we had two leases with tenant at properties located in San Antonio and Houston. The San Antonio lease commenced on May 25, 2012 and expires in 2017. The annualized rental revenue for this location was $120,000, which represents 0.3% of our total annualized base rental revenue. The Houston lease commenced on February 17, 2012 an expires in 2017. The annualized rental revenue was $129,500, which represents 0.3% of our total annualized base rental revenue. 23 Table of Contents Lease Expirations The following table lists, on an aggregate basis, all of our scheduled lease expirations over the next 10 years. Gross Leasable Area Annualized Base Rent as of December 31, 2012 Number of Leases Approximate Square Feet Percent of Total Amount (in thousands) Percent of Total 321 231 164 122 106 37 19 14 13 19 1,046 720,665 712,450 532,043 384,853 363,579 245,603 139,106 71,545 127,812 151,031 3,448,687 16.9 % $ 16.7 % 12.4 % 9.0 % 8.5 % 5.7 % 3.3 % 1.7 % 3.0 % 3.5 % 80.7% $ 9,471 8,328 5,735 4,851 4,732 2,299 1,997 1,082 1,377 1,601 41,473 22.0 % 19.4 % 13.4 % 11.3 % 11.0 % 5.3 % 4.7 % 2.5 % 3.2 % 3.7 % 96.5% Year 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Total Insurance We believe that we have property and liability insurance with reputable, commercially rated companies. We also believe that our insurance policies contain commercially reasonable deductibles and limits, adequate to cover our properties. We expect to maintain this type of insurance coverage and to obtain similar coverage with respect to any additional properties we acquire in the near future. Further, we have title insurance relating to our properties in an aggregate amount that we believe to be adequate. Item 3. Legal Proceedings. We are a participant in various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of our business. These matters are generally covered by insurance. While the resolution of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, we believe that the final outcome of these matters will not have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures. Not applicable. 24 Table of Contents PART II Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. Market Information Reclassification of Common Shares On June 27, 2012, we filed with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland amendments to our declaration of trust that (i) reclassified each issued and unissued Class A common share of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share (the "Class A common shares") into one Class B common share of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share (the "Class B common shares") and (ii) changed the designation of all of the Class B common shares to "common shares." The amendment setting forth the reclassification of the Class A common shares into Class B common shares was approved by our shareholders at the 2012 annual meeting of shareholders held on May 22, 2012. The amendment approving the redesignation of the Class B common shares to common shares was approved by our board of trustees and did not require shareholder approval. Common Shares Our common shares were issued and began trading on the NYSE Amex (which is now known as the NYSE MKT LLC, or the NYSE MKT) on August 25, 2010 under the ticker symbol "WSR." On June 29, 2012, we transferred the listing of our common shares from the NYSE MKT to the NYSE under our existing ticker symbol "WSR." As a result of the transfer, we voluntarily delisted our common shares from the NYSE MKT effective June 28, 2012. As of March 11, 2013, we had 16,991,629 common shares of beneficial interest outstanding held by a total of 11,092 shareholders of record. The following table sets forth the quarterly high, low, and closing prices per share of our common shares for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 as reported on the NYSE MKT through June 28, 2012 and on the NYSE from June 29, 2012 through December 31, 2012. For the Year Ended December 31, 2012 High Low Close First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter For the Year Ended December 31, 2011 First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ High 13.78 13.93 13.95 14.20 14.94 14.94 13.34 12.29 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Low 11.84 12.30 12.72 12.07 13.73 11.90 10.77 10.05 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Close 13.04 13.81 13.20 14.05 14.31 12.72 11.14 11.90 On March 11, 2013, the closing price of our common shares reported on the NYSE was $15.09 per share. Distributions U.S. federal income tax law generally requires that a REIT distribute annually to its shareholders at least 90% of its REIT taxable income, without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains, and that it pay tax at regular corporate rates on any taxable income that it does not distribute. We currently, and intend to continue to, accrue dividends quarterly and pay dividends in three monthly installments following the end of the quarter. For a discussion of our cash flow as compared to dividends, see “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources.” 25 Table of Contents The timing and frequency of our distributions are authorized and declared by our board of trustees based upon a number of factors, including: • • • • • • • our funds from operations; our debt service requirements; our capital expenditure requirements for our properties; our taxable income, combined with the annual distribution requirements necessary to maintain REIT qualification; requirements of Maryland law; our overall financial condition; and other factors deemed relevant by our board of trustees of trustees. Any distributions we make will be at the discretion of our board of trustees and we cannot provide assurance that our distributions will be made or sustained. The following table reflects the total distributions we have paid (including the total amount paid and the amount paid per share/unit) in each indicated quarter (in thousands, except per share/unit data): Common Shares (1) Noncontrolling OP Unit Holders Total Quarter Paid Distributions Per Common Share Total Amount Paid Distributions Per OP Unit Total Amount Paid Total Amount Paid 2012 Fourth Quarter Third Quarter Second Quarter First Quarter Total 2011 Fourth Quarter Third Quarter Second Quarter First Quarter Total $ $ $ $ 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 $ $ $ $ 4,781 3,859 3,362 3,322 15,324 3,193 3,115 2,121 1,616 10,045 $ $ $ $ 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 $ $ $ $ 221 224 258 301 1,004 430 514 515 515 1,974 $ $ $ $ 5,002 4,083 3,620 3,623 16,328 3,623 3,629 2,636 2,131 12,019 (1) Effective June 27, 2012, each outstanding Class A common share was reclassified into one Class B common share, and the Class B common shares were redesignated as "common shares." Equity Compensation Plan Information Please refer to Item 12 of this report for information concerning securities authorized under our equity incentive plan. 26 Table of Contents Performance Graph The following graph compares the total shareholder returns of the Company's common shares to the Standard & Poor's 500 Index (“S&P 500”) and to the Morgan Stanley Capital International US REIT Index ("REIT Index") from August 25, 2010 to December 31, 2012. The graph assumes that the value of the investment in our common shares and in the S&P 500 and REIT indices was $100 at August 25, 2010 and that all dividends were reinvested. The price of our common shares on August 25, 2010 (on which the graph is based) was $12.00. The past shareholder return shown on the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future performance. The performance graph and related information shall not be deemed "filed" with the SEC, nor shall such information be incorporated by reference into any future filing, except to the extent the Company specifically incorporates it by reference into such filing. 27 Table of Contents Item 6. Selected Financial Data. The following table sets forth our selected consolidated financial information and should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, both of which appear elsewhere in this report. Operating Data: Revenues Property expenses General and administrative Depreciation and amortization Involuntary conversion Interest expense Interest, dividend and other investment income Executive relocation expense Income (loss) from continuing operations before loss on disposal of assets and income taxes Provision for income taxes Loss on disposal of assets Income (loss) from continuing operations Income (loss) from discontinued operations Gain on sale of property Gain on sale of properties from discontinued operations Net income Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Year Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share data) 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 $ 46,554 $ 34,915 $ 31,533 $ 32,685 $ 31,201 17,639 13,327 12,283 12,991 12,835 7,616 10,229 — 8,732 (290) 2,177 451 (286) (112) 53 — — — 53 3 6,648 7,749 — 6,344 (460) — 4,992 6,805 6,072 6,518 (558) (1,542) 6,040 6,189 (28) — (36) — 6,708 5,787 358 6,929 (182) — 1,307 1,999 2,493 (1,234) (225) (146) 936 — 397 — 1,333 210 (264) (160) (222) (196) (219) (223) 1,575 2,075 (1,676) — — — 1,575 470 — — — 2,075 733 (188) — 3,619 1,755 621 Net income attributable to Whitestone REIT $ 50 $ 1,123 $ 1,105 $ 1,342 $ 1,134 28 Table of Contents Earnings per share - basic Year Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share data) 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares $ 0.00 $ 0.12 $ 0.27 $ 0.41 $ (0.33) Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT — — — — 0.68 Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares Earnings per share - diluted $ 0.00 $ 0.12 $ 0.27 $ 0.41 $ 0.35 Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares $ 0.00 $ 0.12 $ 0.27 $ 0.40 $ (0.33) Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT — — — — 0.68 Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares Balance Sheet Data: Real estate (net) Other assets Total assets Liabilities Whitestone REIT shareholders' equity Noncontrolling interest in subsidiary Other Data: Proceeds from issuance of common shares Acquisitions of and additions to real estate Distributions per share (1) Funds from operations (2) Operating Portfolio Occupancy at year end Average aggregate gross leasable area Average rent per square foot $ 0.00 $ 0.12 $ 0.27 $ 0.40 $ 0.35 $ 355,749 $ 246,888 $ 165,398 $ 158,398 $ 150,847 29,622 26,605 31,047 23,602 27,098 $ 385,371 $ 273,493 $ 196,445 $ 182,000 $ 177,945 $ 212,484 $ 142,786 $ 112,162 $ 115,141 $ 110,773 166,031 115,958 6,856 14,749 62,708 21,575 43,590 23,269 45,891 21,281 $ 385,371 $ 273,493 $ 196,445 $ 182,000 $ 177,945 $ 58,679 $ 59,683 $ 22,970 $ — $ — 118,207 88,903 12,768 12,855 1.12 10,273 1.09 8,707 1.17 8,432 1.35 8,618 5,153 1.59 4,236 87% 87% 86% 82% 84% 3,833 3,366 3,058 3,039 3,008 $ 11.86 $ 10.37 $ 10.31 $ 10.76 $ 10.37 (1) The distributions per share represent total cash payments divided by weighted average common shares. (2) We believe that Funds From Operations (“FFO”) is an appropriate supplemental measure of operating performance because it helps our investors compare our operating performance relative to other REITs. The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (“NAREIT”) defines FFO as net income (loss) available to common shareholders computed in accordance with GAAP, excluding gains or losses from sales of operating properties and extraordinary items, plus depreciation and amortization of real estate assets, including our share of unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. We calculate FFO in a manner consistent with the NAREIT definition. For more information, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures." 29 Table of Contents The following table sets forth a reconciliation of FFO to net income, the nearest GAAP measure, for the periods presented: Net income (loss) attributable to Whitestone REIT Depreciation and amortization of real estate assets (1) (Gain) loss on sale or disposal of assets (1) Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Year Ended December 31, (in thousands, except per share data) 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 $ 50 $ 1,123 $ 1,105 $ 1,342 $ 10,108 112 3 7,625 (251) 210 6,697 160 470 6,347 196 733 1,134 5,877 (3,396) 621 FFO $ 10,273 $ 8,707 $ 8,432 $ 8,618 $ 4,236 (1) Including amounts for discontinued operations. 30 Table of Contents Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. You should read the following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in this annual report. For more detailed information regarding the basis of presentation for the following information, you should read the notes to our audited consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Overview of Our Company We are a fully integrated real estate company that owns and operates commercial properties in culturally diverse markets in major metropolitan areas. Founded in 1998, we are internally managed with a portfolio of commercial properties in Texas, Arizona and Illinois. In October 2006, our current management team joined the company and adopted a strategic plan to acquire, redevelop, own and operate Community Centered Properties. We define Community Centered Properties as visibly located properties in established or developing culturally diverse neighborhoods in our target markets. We market, lease, and manage our centers to match tenants with the shared needs of the surrounding neighborhood. Those needs may include specialty retail, grocery, restaurants and medical, educational and financial services. Our goal is for each property to become a Whitestone-branded business center or retail community that serves a neighboring five-mile radius around our property. We employ and develop a diverse group of associates who understand the needs of our multicultural communities and tenants. As of December 31, 2012, we owned and operated 51 commercial properties consisting of: Operating Portfolio • • • 27 retail properties containing approximately 2.0 million square feet of gross leasable area and having a total carrying amount (net of accumulated depreciation) of $198.0 million; seven office properties containing approximately 0.6 million square feet of gross leasable area and having a total carrying amount (net of accumulated depreciation) of $42.9 million; and 11 office/flex properties containing approximately 1.2 million square feet of gross leasable area and having a total carrying amount (net of accumulated depreciation) of $39.7 million. Redevelopment, New Acquisitions Portfolio • three retail properties containing approximately 0.5 million square feet of leasable space and having a total carrying amount (net of accumulated depreciation) of $68.0 million; and • three parcels of land held for future development having a total carrying amount of $7.2 million. As of December 31, 2012, we had an aggregate of 1,066 tenants. We have a diversified tenant base with our largest tenant comprising only 1.2% of our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012. Lease terms for our properties range from less than one year for smaller tenants to over 15 years for larger tenants. Our leases generally include minimum monthly lease payments and tenant reimbursements for payment of taxes, insurance and maintenance. We completed 323 new and renewal leases during 2012, totaling 685,030 square feet and $35.2 million in total lease value. We employed 68 full-time employees as of December 31, 2012. As an internally managed REIT, we bear our own expenses of operations, including the salaries, benefits and other compensation of our employees, office expenses, legal, accounting and investor relations expenses and other overhead costs. 31 Table of Contents How We Derive Our Revenue Substantially all of our revenue is derived from rents received from leases at our properties. We had rental income and tenant reimbursements of approximately $46,554,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to $34,915,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011, an increase of $11,639,000, or 33%. The twelve months ended December 31, 2012 included $11,164,000 in increased revenues from New Store operations. We define "New Stores" as properties acquired during the period being compared. For the purposes of comparing the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 to the twelve months ended December 31, 2011, this includes properties acquired between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2012. Same Store revenues increased $475,000. We define "Same Stores" as properties that were owned at the beginning of the period being compared. For the purposes of comparing the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 to the twelve months ended December 31, 2011, this includes properties owned before January 1, 2011. Same Store average occupancy increased from 83.9% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2011 to 84.8% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012, increasing Same Store revenue $262,000. The Same Store revenue rate per average leased square foot increased $0.08 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 to $12.60 per average leased square foot as compared to the twelve month ended December 31, 2011 revenue rate per average leased square foot of $12.52, increasing Same Store revenue $213,000. Known Trends in Our Operations; Outlook for Future Results Rental Income We expect our rental income to increase year-over-year due to the addition of properties. The amount of net rental income generated by our properties depends principally on our ability to maintain the occupancy rates of currently leased space and to lease currently available space, newly acquired properties with vacant space, and space available from unscheduled lease terminations. The amount of rental income we generate also depends on our ability to maintain or increase rental rates in our submarkets. Negative trends in one or more of these factors could adversely affect our rental income in future periods, although we expect modest continued improvement in the overall economy in our markets to provide slight increases in occupancy at certain of our properties. Scheduled Lease Expirations We tend to lease space to smaller businesses that desire shorter term leases. As of December 31, 2012, approximately 34% of our gross leasable area was subject to leases that expire prior to December 31, 2014. Over the last three years we have renewed approximately 72% of our square footage expiring as a result of lease maturities. We routinely seek to renew leases with our existing tenants prior to their expiration and typically begin discussions with tenants as early as 18 months prior to the expiration date of the existing lease. While our early renewal program and other leasing and marketing efforts target these expiring leases, we hope to re-lease most of that space prior to expiration of the leases. In the markets in which we operate, we obtain and analyze market rental rates through review of third-party publications, which provide market and submarket rental rate data and through inquiry of property owners and property management companies as to rental rates being quoted at properties that are located in close proximity to our properties and we believe display similar physical attributes as our nearby properties. We use this data to negotiate leases with new tenants and renew leases with our existing tenants at rates we believe to be competitive in the markets for our individual properties. Due to the short term nature of our leases, and based upon our analysis of market rental rates, we believe that, in the aggregate, our current leases are at market rates. During the year ended December 31, 2012, our revenue rate per square foot for renewals and new leases for comparable spaces increased 2% when compared to the expiring revenue rate per square foot for previous leases. As such, we expect the 2013 and 2014 expiring square footage to lease at rates which are at, or near, their current rates. Market conditions, including new supply of properties, and macroeconomic conditions in our markets and nationally affecting tenant income, such as employment levels, business conditions, interest rates, tax rates, fuel and energy costs and other matters, could adversely impact our renewal rate and/or the rental rates we are able to negotiate. We continue to monitor our tenants' operating performances as well as overall economic trends to evaluate any future negative impact on our renewal rates and rental rates, which could adversely affect our cash flow and ability to pay dividends to our shareholders. Acquisitions We expect to actively seek acquisitions in the foreseeable future. We believe that over the next few years we will continue to have excellent opportunities to acquire quality properties at historically attractive prices. We have extensive relationships with community banks, attorneys, title companies and others in the real estate industry, which we believe enables us to take advantage of these market opportunities and maintain an active acquisition pipeline. 32 Table of Contents Property Acquisitions We seek to acquire commercial properties in high-growth markets. Our acquisition targets are properties that fit our Community Centered Properties strategy. We define Community Centered Properties as visibly located properties in established or developing, culturally diverse neighborhoods in our target markets, primarily in and around Phoenix, Chicago, Dallas, San Antonio and Houston. We market, lease and manage our centers to match tenants with the shared needs of the surrounding neighborhood. Those needs may include specialty retail, grocery, restaurants, medical, educational and financial services. Our goal is for each property to become a Whitestone-branded business center or retail community that serves a neighboring five-mile radius around our property. Property Acquisitions. On December 28, 2012, we acquired the Shops at Pecos Ranch, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $19.0 million in cash and net prorations. The 78,767 square foot property was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Chandler, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. The property is within close proximity to Intel Corporation's new corporate 682-acre campus that is scheduled to be completed in 2013 and should employ approximately 11,000 employees. On September 21, 2012, we acquired Village Square at Dana Park, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $46.5 million in cash and net prorations. The 310,979 square foot property was 71% leased at the time of purchase and is located in the Mesa submarket of Phoenix, Arizona. In the same purchase, we also acquired an adjacent development parcel of 4.7 acres for approximately $4.0 million in cash. The property houses specialty boutique, dining and daily needs service tenants within a contemporary Main Street setting featuring expansive palm tree lined, cobblestone paved pedestrian walkways and eight courtyard fountains with shaded seating areas. On September 21, 2012, we acquired Fountain Square, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $15.4 million in cash and net prorations. The 118,209 square foot property was 76% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. The property includes tenants such as a 20,000 square foot fitness center, salons, restaurants, medical and educational service providers and is also shadow-anchored by Safeway Supermarket, McDonalds and Sleep America. On August 8, 2012, we acquired Paradise Plaza, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $16.3 million, including the assumption of a $9.2 million non-recourse loan, and cash of $7.1 million. The 125,898 square foot property was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Paradise Valley, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. Tenants at the property cater to families with children and include pediatric medical/health care service providers, educational providers, a well-known community theater, children's furniture dealers, bicycle shops and a variety of other convenience providers. On May 29, 2012, we acquired the Shops at Pinnacle Peak, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $6.4 million in cash and net prorations. The 41,530 square foot property was 76% leased at the time of purchase and is located in North Scottsdale, Arizona. Tenants include restaurants, medical/health care providers and a variety of other convenience service providers. On December 28, 2011, we acquired the Shops at Starwood, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $15.7 million in cash and net prorations. The 55,385 square foot Class A property was 98% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Frisco, Texas, a northern suburb of Dallas. The Shops at Starwood has a complementary tenant mix of restaurants, fashion boutiques, salons and second-level office space. On December 28, 2011, we acquired Starwood Phase III, a 2.73 acre parcel of undeveloped land adjacent to the Shops at Starwood, for approximately $1.9 million, including a non-recourse loan we assumed for $1.4 million, secured by the land, and cash of $0.5 million. The Phase III development site fronts the Dallas North Tollway within the Tollway Overlay District, which grants the highest allowed density of any zoning district. No revenue or income for this development property has been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. On December 28, 2011, we acquired Pinnacle of Scottsdale Phase II, or Pinnacle Phase II, a 4.45 acre parcel of developed land adjacent to Pinnacle for approximately $1.0 million in cash and net prorations. Pinnacle Phase II has approximately 400 linear feet of frontage on Scottsdale Road and the potential for additional retail and office development. No revenue or income for this development property has been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. 33 Table of Contents On December 22, 2011, we acquired Phase I of Pinnacle of Scottsdale, or Pinnacle, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $28.8 million, including a non-recourse loan we assumed for $14.1 million that is secured by the property, and cash of $14.7 million. The 113,108 square foot Class A property was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in North Scottsdale, Arizona. The tenants include Safeway, Ace Hardware, Starbucks, Subway, Shell Oil and a variety of other convenience service providers. On August 16, 2011, we acquired Ahwatukee Plaza Shopping Center, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $9.3 million in cash and net prorations. The 72,650 square foot property was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in the affluent high density Ahwatukee Foothills neighborhood in south Phoenix, Arizona. The property is anchored by Gold's Gym. On August 8, 2011, we acquired Terravita Marketplace, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $16.1 million in cash and net prorations. The 102,733 square foot property, inclusive of 51,434 square feet leased to two tenants pursuant to ground leases, was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Terravita Marketplace is adjacent to the gated golf course residential community of Terravita, which was developed by DelWebb Corporation/Pulte, with homes ranging in price from $250,000 to $1 million. On June 28, 2011, we acquired Gilbert Tuscany Village, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, or approximately $5.0 million in cash and net prorations. The 49,415 square foot property was 16% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Gilbert, Arizona. Gilbert Tuscany Village is surrounded by densely populated, high-end residential developments and is located approximately one mile from Banner Gateway Medical Center, a 60-acre medical complex that is partnering with MD Anderson to add a new 120,000 square foot cancer outpatient center. On April 13, 2011, we acquired Desert Canyon Shopping Center, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $3.7 million in cash and net prorations. The 62,533 square foot property, inclusive of 12,960 square feet leased to two tenants pursuant to ground leases, was 65% leased at the time of purchase and is located in McDowell Mountain Ranch in northern Scottsdale, Arizona. On November 1, 2010, we acquired Marketplace at Central, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $6.4 million in cash and net prorations. The 111,130 square foot property was 49% leased at the time of purchase and is located in central Phoenix, Arizona. The property is situated in an ideal location across the street from John C. Lincoln Hospital, the major employer in the area, and within a quarter mile from Sunnyslope High School. On September 28, 2010, we acquired The Citadel, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $2.2 million in cash and net prorations. The 28,547 square foot property was 16% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. The property is strategically located at a prime intersection at Pinnacle Peak and Pima Roads. Property dispositions. On July 22, 2011, we sold Greens Road Plaza, located in Houston, Texas, for $1.8 million in cash and net prorations. We have reinvested the proceeds from the sale of the 20,607 square foot property located in northeast Houston in acquisitions of Community Centered Properties in our target markets. As a result of the transaction, we recorded a gain on sale of property of $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. 34 Table of Contents Summary of Critical Accounting Policies Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based on our consolidated financial statements. We prepared these financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements required us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. We based our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Our results may differ from these estimates. Currently, we believe that our accounting policies do not require us to make estimates using assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain. For a better understanding of our accounting policies, you should read Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” to our accompanying consolidated financial statements in conjunction with this "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations." We have described below the critical accounting policies that we believe could impact our consolidated financial statements most significantly. Revenue Recognition. All leases on our properties are classified as operating leases, and the related rental income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the related leases. Differences between rental income earned and amounts due per the respective lease agreements are capitalized or charged, as applicable, to accrued rents and accounts receivable. Percentage rents are recognized as rental income when the thresholds upon which they are based have been met. Recoveries from tenants for taxes, insurance, and other operating expenses are recognized as revenues in the period the corresponding costs are incurred. We have established an allowance for doubtful accounts against the portion of tenant accounts receivable which is estimated to be uncollectible. Development Properties. Land, buildings and improvements are recorded at cost. Expenditures related to the development of real estate are carried at cost, which includes capitalized carrying charges and development costs. Carrying charges, primarily interest, real estate taxes and loan acquisition costs, and direct and indirect development costs related to buildings under construction, are capitalized as part of construction in progress. The capitalization of such costs ceases when the property, or any completed portion thereof, becomes available for occupancy. Prior to that time, we expense these costs as acquisition expense. For the year ended December 31, 2012, approximately $176,000 and $147,000 in interest expense and real estate taxes, respectively, were capitalized. No interest was capitalized for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010. Acquired Properties and Acquired Lease Intangibles. We allocate the purchase price of the acquired properties to land, building and improvements, identifiable intangible assets and to the acquired liabilities based on their respective fair values. Identifiable intangibles include amounts allocated to acquired out-of-market leases, the value of in-place leases and customer relationship value, if any. We determine fair value based on estimated cash flow projections that utilize appropriate discount and capitalization rates and available market information. Estimates of future cash flows are based on a number of factors including the historical operating results, known trends and specific market and economic conditions that may affect the property. Factors considered by management in our analysis of determining the as-if-vacant property value include an estimate of carrying costs during the expected lease-up periods considering market conditions, and costs to execute similar leases. In estimating carrying costs, management includes real estate taxes, insurance and estimates of lost rentals at market rates during the expected lease-up periods, tenant demand and other economic conditions. Management also estimates costs to execute similar leases including leasing commissions, tenant improvements, legal and other related expenses. Intangibles related to out-of-market leases and in-place lease value are recorded as acquired lease intangibles and are amortized as an adjustment to rental revenue or amortization expense, as appropriate, over the remaining terms of the underlying leases. Premiums or discounts on acquired out-of-market debt are amortized to interest expense over the remaining term of such debt. Depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of 5 to 39 years for improvements and buildings, respectively. Tenant improvements are depreciated using the straight-line method over the life of the improvement or remaining term of the lease, whichever is shorter. Impairment. We review our properties for impairment at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets, including accrued rental income, may not be recoverable through operations. We determine whether an impairment in value has occurred by comparing the estimated future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges), including the estimated residual value of the property, with the carrying cost of the property. If impairment is indicated, a loss will be recorded for the amount by which the carrying value of the property exceeds its fair value. Management has determined that there has been no impairment in the carrying value of our real estate assets as of December 31, 2012. 35 Table of Contents Accrued Rents and Accounts Receivable. Included in accrued rent and accounts receivable are base rents, tenant reimbursements and receivables attributable to recording rents on a straight-line basis. An allowance for the uncollectible portion of accrued rents and accounts receivable is determined based upon customer credit-worthiness (including expected recovery of our claim with respect to any tenants in bankruptcy), historical bad debt levels, and current economic trends. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we had an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $2.3 million and $1.4 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we recorded bad debt expense in the amount of $1.0 million, $0.6 million and $0.5 million, respectively, related to tenant receivables that we specifically identified as potentially uncollectible based on our assessment of each tenant’s credit-worthiness. Bad debt expenses and any related recoveries are included in property operation and maintenance expense. Unamortized Lease Commissions and Loan Costs. Leasing commissions are amortized using the straight-line method over the terms of the related lease agreements. Loan costs are amortized on the straight-line method over the terms of the loans, which approximates the interest method. Costs allocated to in-place leases whose terms differ from market terms related to acquired properties are amortized over the remaining life of the respective leases. Prepaids and Other Assets. Prepaids and other assets include escrows established pursuant to certain mortgage financing arrangements for real estate taxes and insurance and acquisition deposits which include earnest money deposits on future acquisitions. As part of our executive relocation arrangement, as discussed in Note 11, we issued a note receivable for $975,000 to the buyer. The note bears interest at a rate of 4.5% and matures on December 31, 2013. Federal Income Taxes. We elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Code beginning with our taxable year ended December 31, 1999. As a REIT, we generally are not subject to federal income tax on income that we distribute to our shareholders. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will be subject to federal income tax on our taxable income at regular corporate rates. We believe that we are organized and operate in such a manner as to qualify to be taxed as a REIT, and we intend to operate so as to remain qualified as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. State Taxes. We are subject to the Texas Margin Tax which is computed by applying the applicable tax rate (1% for us) to the profit margin, which, generally, will be determined for us as total revenue less a 30% standard deduction. Although the Texas Margin Tax is not an income tax, Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 740, “Income Taxes” (“ASC 740”) applies to the Texas Margin Tax. We have recorded a margin tax expense of $0.3 million for the Texas Margin Tax for each of the years ended December 31, 2012, and 2010 and $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 . Recent accounting pronouncements. In December 2010, the FASB issued new guidance clarifying that the disclosure of supplementary pro forma information for business combinations should be presented such that revenues and earnings of the combined entity are calculated as though the relevant business combinations that occurred during the current reporting period had occurred as of the beginning of the comparable prior annual reporting period. The guidance also improves the usefulness of the supplementary pro forma information by requiring a description of the nature and amount of material, non-recurring pro forma adjustments that are directly attributable to the business combinations. We adopted these provisions for our consolidated financial statements beginning with the year ended December 31, 2011. Thus the application of these provisions is reflected in the supplementary pro forma disclosures for our acquisitions, as described in Note 4 to our accompanying consolidated financial statements. In June 2011, the FASB issued guidance eliminating the option to present components of other comprehensive income solely as part of the statement of shareholders' equity and requires the presentation of components of net income and components of other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. In December 2011, the FASB deferred the requirement to present reclassification adjustments for each component of accumulated other comprehensive income in both net income and other comprehensive income on the face of the financial statements. We adopted these provisions for our consolidated financial statements beginning with the quarter ended June 30, 2011. In February 2013, the FASB issued guidance requiring entities to disclose certain information relating to amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. We do not expect the pronouncement to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. 36 Table of Contents Liquidity and Capital Resources Our short-term liquidity requirements consist primarily of distributions to holders of our common shares and OP units, including those required to maintain our REIT status and satisfy our current quarterly distribution target of $0.2850 per share and OP unit, recurring expenditures, such as repairs and maintenance of our properties, non-recurring expenditures, such as capital improvements and tenant improvements, debt service requirements, and, potentially, acquisitions of additional properties. During the year ended December 31, 2012, our cash provided from operating activities was $11,218,000 and our total dividends and distributions were $16,328,000. Therefore, we had distributions in excess of cash flow from operations of approximately $5,110,000. On February 4, 2013, we, through our Operating Partnership, amended and restated our unsecured revolving credit facility and entered into our 2013 Facility, which we will use for general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and redevelopment of existing properties in our portfolio. The new facility replaced our existing unsecured revolving credit facility. We anticipate that cash flows from operating activities and our borrowing capacity under our 2013 Facility will provide adequate capital for our working capital requirements, anticipated capital expenditures and scheduled debt payments in the short term. We also believe that cash flows from operating activities and our borrowing capacity will allow us to make all distributions required for us to continue to qualify to be taxed as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. Our long-term capital requirements consist primarily of maturities under our longer-term debt agreements, development and redevelopment costs, and potential acquisitions. We expect to meet our long-term liquidity requirements with net cash from operations, long-term indebtedness, sales of common shares, issuance of OP units, sales of underperforming properties and other financing opportunities, including debt financing. We believe we have access to multiple sources of capital to fund our long-term liquidity requirements, including the incurrence of additional debt and the issuance of additional equity. However, our ability to incur additional debt will be dependent on a number of factors, including our degree of leverage, the value of our unencumbered assets and borrowing restrictions that may be imposed by lenders. Our ability to access the equity markets will be dependent on a number of factors as well, including general market conditions for REITs and market perceptions about our company. We expect that our rental income will increase as we continue to acquire additional properties, subsequently increasing our cash flows generated from operating activities. We intend to continue acquiring such additional properties through equity issuances, including proceeds from our offering of common shares in August 2012, and through debt financing. Our capital structure includes non-recourse secured debt that we assumed or originated on certain properties. We may hedge the future cash flows of certain debt transactions principally through interest rate swaps with major financial institutions. Cash and Cash Equivalents We had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $6,544,000 at December 31, 2012, as compared to $5,695,000 at December 31, 2011. The increase of $849,000 was primarily the result of the following: Sources of Cash • Cash flow from operations of $11,218,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012; • Net proceeds of $58,679,000 from issuance of common shares; • Net proceeds of $56,312,000 from issuance of notes payable net of origination costs; • Proceeds from sales of marketable securities of $5,508,000; Uses of Cash • • Payment of dividends and distributions to common shareholders and OP Unit holders of $16,328,000; Investments in marketable securities of $750,000; • Real estate acquisitions of $98,350,000; • Additions to real estate of $10,815,000; • • Payments of loans of $4,146,000; Payments of exchange offer costs of $479,000. 37 Table of Contents We place all cash in short-term, highly liquid investments that we believe provide appropriate safety of principal. Equity Offering On August 28, 2012, we completed the sale of 4,830,000 common shares, $0.001 par value per share, including 630,000 common shares pursuant to the exercise of the underwriters' over-allotment option, at a price to the public of $12.80 per share. Total net proceeds from the offering, including over-allotment shares, and after deducting the underwriting discount and offering expenses, were approximately $58.7 million, which we used for general corporate purposes, including property acquisitions, debt repayment, capital expenditures, the expansion, redevelopment and/or retenanting in our portfolio, working capital and other general corporate purposes. Debt Mortgages and other notes payable consist of the following (in thousands): Description Fixed rate notes $1.1 million 4.71% Note, due 2013 (1) $14.1 million 5.695% Note, due 2013 $3.0 million 6.00% Note, due 2021 (2) $10.0 million 6.04% Note, due 2014 $1.5 million 6.50% Note, due 2014 $11.2 million 6.52% Note, due 2015 $21.4 million 6.53% Notes, due 2013 $24.5 million 6.56% Note, due 2013 $9.9 million 6.63% Notes, due 2014 $0.7 million 2.97% Note, due 2013 Floating rate notes Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 2.75% to 3.75%, due 2015 $9.2 million, Prime Rate less 2.00%, due 2017 $26.9 million, LIBOR plus 2.86% Note, due 2013 December 31, 2012 2011 $ $ $ 1,087 13,850 2,943 9,142 1,444 10,609 18,865 23,135 8,925 15 69,000 7,854 23,739 190,608 $ 1,318 14,110 2,978 9,326 1,471 10,763 19,524 23,597 9,221 23 11,000 — 24,559 127,890 (1) As of December 31, 2011, promissory note had a balance of $1.4 million and an interest rate of 5.0%, due in 2012. See Note 8 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional discussion of this note. (2) The 6.00% interest rate is fixed through March 30, 2016. On March 31, 2016 the interest rate will reset to the rate of interest for a five-year balloon note with a thirty-year amortization as published by the Federal Home Loan Bank. Our mortgage debt was collateralized by 27 operating properties as of December 31, 2012 with a combined net book value of $161.8 million and 26 operating properties as of December 31, 2011 with a combined net book value of $143.2 million. Our loans contain restrictions that would require the payment of prepayment penalties for the acceleration of outstanding debt and are secured by deeds of trust on certain of our properties and the assignment of certain rents and leases associated with those properties. On August 8, 2012, we assumed a $9.2 million variable rate note as part of our acquisition of Paradise Plaza. See Note 4 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further discussion. The variable rate is based on the prime rate less 2.00% and matures on December 27, 2017. We consider the variable rate to be below-market and have imputed an interest rate of 4.13%, which we consider to be an appropriate market rate. As a result, we recorded a discount on the note of $1.3 million, which will amortize into interest expense over the life of the loan. See Note 2 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for a discussion of the interest rate swap included with this note. 38 Table of Contents On February 27, 2012, we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into a three-year $125 million unsecured revolving credit facility (the "2012 Facility"). As of December 31, 2012, $69.0 million was drawn on the 2012 Facility, and our remaining borrowing capacity was $56.0 million. On February 4, 2013, we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into an unsecured credit facility that amends and restates the Facility. See Note 19 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further discussion. On February 4, 2013, we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into our 2013 Facility, which amended and restated our 2012 Facility. We will use the 2013 Facility for acquisitions, redevelopment of value-add properties in our portfolio and general corporate purposes. In addition to a $125 million unsecured borrowing capacity under the revolving loan, the 2013 Facility also includes a $50 million term loan and permits the Operating Partnership to increase the borrowing capacity under the 2013 Facility to a total of $225 million, upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. On February 4, 2013, we drew down $69.0 million on the 2013 Facility, which replaced the $69.0 million drawn on the 2012 Facility. Like our 2012 Facility, the 2013 Facility contains customary terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as information reporting requirements, maximum secured indebtedness to total asset value, minimum EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization or extraordinary items) to fixed charges and maintenance of a minimum net worth. The amount available to us and our ability to borrow from time to time under the 2013 Facility is subject to our compliance with these requirements. See Note 19 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further discussion. On March 8, 2013. we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into an interest rate swap with U.S. Bank National Association that fixes the LIBOR portion of our $50 million term loan under our 2013 Facility at 0.84%. The swap starts on January 7, 2014 and will mature on February 3, 2017. We have designated the interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge with the effective portion of the changes in fair value to be recorded in comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value, if any, will be recognized directly in earnings. Certain other of our loans are subject to customary covenants. As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with all loan covenants. Annual maturities of notes payable as of December 31, 2012 are due during the following years: Year 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Thereafter Total Amount Due (in thousands) $ $ 81,396 19,172 10,317 73 76,936 2,714 190,608 Capital Expenditures We continually evaluate our properties’ performance and value. We may determine it is in our shareholders’ best interest to invest capital in properties we believe have potential for increasing value. We also may have unexpected capital expenditures or improvements for our existing assets. Additionally, we intend to continue investing in similar properties outside of Texas in cities with exceptional demographics to diversify market risk, and we may incur significant capital expenditures or make improvements in connection with any properties we may acquire. 39 Table of Contents Contractual Obligations As of December 31, 2012, we had the following contractual obligations (see Note 8 of our accompanying consolidated financial statements for further discussion regarding the specific terms of our debt): Contractual Obligations Long-Term Debt - Principal Long-Term Debt - Fixed Interest Long-Term Debt - Variable Interest (1) Unsecured revolving credit facility - Unused commitment fee (2) Operating Lease Obligations Total Payment due by period (in thousands) Total Less than 1 year (2013) 1 - 3 years (2014 - 2015) 3 - 5 years (2016 - 2017) More than 5 years (after 2017) $ 190,608 $ 81,396 $ 29,489 $ 77,009 $ 2,714 7,596 7,794 1,855 33 207,886 $ $ 4,515 2,320 371 28 88,630 $ 2,034 3,421 742 5 35,691 $ 535 2,053 742 — 80,339 $ 512 — — — 3,226 (1) As of December 31, 2012, we had two loans totaling $92.7 million which bore interest at a floating rate, including borrowings under our 2012 Facility. The variable interest rate payments are based on LIBOR plus 1.75% to LIBOR plus 2.50%, which reflects our new interest rates under our 2013 Facility. The information in the table above reflects our projected interest rate obligations for the floating rate payments based on one-month LIBOR as of December 31, 2012, of 0.21%. (2) The unused commitment fees on our unsecured revolving credit facility, payable quarterly, are based on the average daily unused amount of our unsecured revolving credit facility. The fees, which reflect our new fees under our 2013 Facility, are 0.25% for facility usage greater than 50% or 0.35% for facility usage less than 50%. The information in the table above reflects our projected obligations for our unsecured revolving credit facility based on our December 31, 2012 balance of $69.0 million. 40 Table of Contents Distributions During 2012, we paid distributions to our common shareholders and OP unit holders of $16.3 million, compared to $12.0 million in 2011. Common shareholders and OP unit holders receive monthly distributions. Payments of distributions are declared quarterly and paid monthly. The distributions paid to common shareholders and OP unit holders were as follows (in thousands, except per share data) for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011: Common Shares Noncontrolling OP Unit Holders Total Distributions Per Common Share Total Amount Paid Distributions Per OP Unit Total Amount Paid Total Amount Paid Quarter Paid 2012 Fourth Quarter Third Quarter Second Quarter First Quarter Total 2011 Fourth Quarter Third Quarter Second Quarter First Quarter Total $ $ $ $ 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 $ $ $ $ 4,781 3,859 3,362 3,322 15,324 3,193 3,115 2,121 1,616 10,045 $ $ $ $ 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 $ $ $ $ 221 224 258 301 1,004 430 514 515 515 1,974 $ $ $ $ 5,002 4,083 3,620 3,623 16,328 3,623 3,629 2,636 2,131 12,019 41 Table of Contents Results of Operations Year Ended December 31, 2012 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2011 The following table provides a general comparison of our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 (dollars in thousands, except per share data): Number of properties owned and operated Aggregate gross leasable area (sq. ft.) Ending occupancy rate - operating portfolio(1) Ending occupancy rate - all properties Total property revenues Total property expenses Total other expenses Provision for income taxes Loss on disposal of assets Income from continuing operations Gain on sale of property Net income Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to Whitestone REIT Funds from operations (2) Property net operating income (3) Distributions paid on common shares and OP Units Distributions per common share and OP unit Distributions paid as a percentage of funds from operations Year Ended December 31, 2012 51 4,274,691 87% 85% 2011 45 3,597,337 87% 84% $ $ $ $ 46,554 17,639 28,464 286 112 53 — 53 3 50 10,273 28,915 16,328 1.14 159% 34,915 13,327 20,281 225 146 936 397 1,333 210 1,123 8,707 21,588 12,019 1.14 138% $ $ $ $ (1) Excludes (i) new acquisitions, through the earlier of attainment of 90% occupancy or 18 months of ownership, and (ii) properties that are undergoing significant redevelopment or re-tenanting. (2) For an explanation and reconciliation of funds from operations to net income, see "Funds From Operations" below. (3) For an explanation and reconciliation of property net operating income to net income, see "Property Net Operating Income" below. Property revenues. We had rental income and tenant reimbursements of approximately $46,554,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to $34,915,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011, an increase of $11,639,000, or 33%. The year ended December 31, 2012 included $11,164,000 in increased revenues from New Store operations. Same Store revenues increased $475,000. Same Store average occupancy increased from 83.9% for the year ended December 31, 2011 to 84.8% for the year ended December 31, 2012, increasing Same Store revenue $262,000. The Same Store revenue rate per average leased square foot increased $0.08 for the year ended December 31, 2012 to $12.60 per average leased square foot as compared to the year ended December 31, 2011 revenue rate per average leased square foot of $12.52, increasing Same Store revenue $213,000. The revenue rate per average leased square feet is calculated by dividing the total revenue by the average square feet leased during the period. 42 Table of Contents Property expenses. Our property expenses were $17,639,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012, as compared to $13,327,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011, an increase of $4,312,000, or 32%. The primary components of total property expenses, Same Store property expenses and New Store property expenses are detailed in the tables below (in thousands): Overall Property Expenses Year Ended December 31, 2012 2011 Increase % Increase (Decrease) (Decrease) Real estate taxes Utilities Contract services Repairs and maintenance Bad debt Labor and other Total Same Store Property Expenses Real estate taxes Utilities Contract services Repairs and maintenance Bad debt Labor and other Total New Store Property Expenses Real estate taxes Utilities Contract services Repairs and maintenance Bad debt Labor and other Total $ 6,384 $ 4,668 $ 1,716 3,025 2,786 1,800 1,004 2,510 2,312 1,222 615 2,640 17,639 $ 2,000 13,327 $ 515 474 578 389 640 4,312 37% 21% 21% 47% 63% 32% 32% Year Ended December 31, 2012 2011 Increase % Increase (Decrease) (Decrease) 4,617 2,477 2,264 1,290 753 2,241 13,642 $ $ 4,418 2,403 2,225 1,172 588 1,912 12,718 $ $ 199 74 39 118 165 329 924 5% 3% 2% 10% 28% 17% 7% Year Ended December 31, 2012 2011 Increase % Increase (Decrease) (Decrease) 1,767 548 522 510 251 399 3,997 $ $ 250 107 87 50 27 88 609 $ $ 1,517 441 435 460 224 311 3,388 607% 412% 500% 920% 830% 353% 556% $ $ $ $ $ Real estate taxes. Real estate taxes increased $1,716,000, or 37%, during the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011, primarily as a result of New Stores real estate taxes, which increased $1,517,000. Same Store real estate taxes increased $199,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2011. The Sames Store increase was the result of increases in 2011 property values of several of our Houston properties that were under dispute with the taxing authority and increased assessed values from the various appraisal districts during 2012. Approximately $100,000 of the increase related to 2011 valuations, which we do not expect to repeat in future periods. We actively work to keep our valuations and resulting taxes low because a majority of these taxes are charged to our tenants through triple net leases, and we strive to keep these charges to our tenants as low as possible. Utilities. Utilities increased $515,000, or 21%, during the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. The increase in utility expenses was primarily attributed to New Store increases of $441,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012. Same Store utilities expenses increased approximately $74,000 during the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. The majority of the Same Store increase was attributable to a new drainage utility fee with respect to our Houston properties charged by the City of Houston, which took effect July 1, 2011. 43 Table of Contents Contract services. Contract services increased $474,000, or 21%, during the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011, primarily as a result of New Store contract services, which increased $435,000. Same Store contract services increased $39,000, or 2%. Repairs and maintenance. Repairs and maintenance increased $578,000, or 47%, during the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. New Store repairs and maintenance increased $460,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. Same Store repairs and maintenance increased $118,000, or 10%, during year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. The increase is primarily comprised of increases in electrical and lighting repairs of $40,000, HVAC repair and supply costs of $31,000, and roofing repairs of $28,000 and other net increased repair and maintenance costs of $19,000. Bad debt. Bad debt for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $389,000, or 63%, as compared to 2011. The increase for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2011 was comprised of $224,000 from New Store bad debt and $165,000 from Same Store bad debt. The overall bad debt expense was approximately 2% of revenue for both years. We vigorously pursue past due accounts, but expect collection of rents to continue to be challenging for the foreseeable future. Labor and other. Labor and other expenses increased $640,000, or 32%, for year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. New Store labor and other expenses increased $311,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. Same Store labor and other expenses increased $329,000, or 17%, during year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. The increase in Same Store labor and other expenses is primarily comprised of increased insurance premiums of $197,000, increased non-recoverable repairs of $49,000, increased office expenses of $44,000 and other net increased labor and other expenses of $39,000. Same Store and New Store net operating income. The components of Same Store, New Store and total property net operating income are detailed in the table below (in thousands): Property revenues Property expenses Property net operating income Same Store Year Ended December 31, New Store Total 2012 2011 2012 2011 2012 2011 $ $ 33,564 13,642 19,922 $ $ 33,089 12,718 20,371 $ $ 12,990 3,997 8,993 $ $ 1,826 609 1,217 $ $ 46,554 17,639 28,915 $ $ 34,915 13,327 21,588 Other expenses. Our other expenses were $28,464,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012, as compared to $20,281,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011, an increase of $8,183,000, or 40%. The primary components of other expenses, net are detailed in the table below (in thousands): General and administrative Depreciation & amortization Executive relocation expense Interest expense Interest, dividend and other investment income Total other expenses Year Ended December 31, 2012 2011 Increase % Increase (Decrease) (Decrease) 7,616 $ 6,648 $ 10,229 2,177 8,732 (290) 28,464 $ 7,749 — 6,344 (460) 20,281 $ 968 2,480 2,177 2,388 170 8,183 15% 32% 100% 38% 37% 40% $ $ 44 Table of Contents General and administrative. General and administrative expenses increased approximately $968,000, or 15%, for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. The increase in general and administrative expenses included increased share-based compensation costs of $401,000, increased payroll of costs of $390,000, a separation arrangement cost of $107,000 and other expenses of $70,000. The increase in share-based compensation is due to expense related to additional employee grants and expenses related to the expected vesting of performance-based shares. As of December 31, 2012, there was approximately $1,092,000 in unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding non-vested performance-based shares, which are expected to to vest over a period of twelve months and approximately $60,000 in unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding non-vested time-based shares, which are expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately eight months. The increase in payroll costs is due to an increase in the number of employees from 62 as of December 31, 2011 to 68 as of December 31, 2012. Executive relocation expense. The executive relocation expense of $2,177,000 relates to the disposition of an executive's residence and our obligation to pay certain expenses incurred in connection therewith pursuant to the relocation arrangement entered into with such executive. See Note 11 to the accompanying consolidated financial statements for further discussion. Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization increased $2,480,000, or 32%, for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. New Store depreciation increased $1,716,000 and Same Store depreciation increased $749,000. The increase in Same Store depreciation is attributable to redevelopment and re-tenanting investments, most notably at our Windsor and Lion Square locations. Depreciation on corporate assets and amortization of commission costs increased $15,000. Interest expense. Interest expense increased $2,388,000, or 38%, for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. An increase in our average outstanding notes payable balance of $44,540,000 accounted for $2,372,000 in increased interest expense, offset by a decrease in our effective interest rate to 5.07% for the year ended December 31, 2012 versus 5.32% for the year ended December 31, 2011, resulting in a $381,000 decrease in interest expense. Amortized loan fees included in interest expense increased $397,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012 with the addition of new debt and our 2012 Facility to $1,013,000 as compared to $616,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011. Interest, dividend and other investment income. Interest, dividend and other investment income increased $170,000, or 37%, for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 2011. During the year ended December 31, 2012, our gains on sales of investments in available-for-sale securities decreased $82,000, our dividend income decreased $57,000 and our interest income decreased $31,000 as compared to the amounts realized during the year ended December 31, 2011. 45 Table of Contents Year Ended December 31, 2011 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2010 The following table provides a general comparison of our results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 (dollars in thousands, except per share data): Number of properties owned and operated Aggregate gross leasable area (sq. ft.)(1) Ending occupancy rate - operating portfolio(2) Ending occupancy rate - all properties Total property revenues Total property expenses Total other expenses Provision for income taxes Loss on disposal of assets Income from continuing operations Gain on sale of property Net income Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to Whitestone REIT Funds from operations (3) Property net operating income (4) Distributions paid on common shares and OP units Per Class A common share and OP unit Per Class B common share (5) Distributions paid as a percentage of funds from operations Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 45 38 3,597,337 3,162,020 87% 84% 86% 84% $ $ $ $ $ 34,915 13,327 20,281 225 146 936 397 1,333 210 1,123 8,707 21,588 12,019 1.14 1.14 138% 31,533 12,283 17,251 264 160 1,575 — 1,575 470 1,105 8,432 19,250 7,407 1.25 0.38 88% $ $ $ $ $ (1) During the first quarter of 2010, we concluded that approximately 25,000 square feet at our Kempwood Plaza and Centre South locations were no longer leasable, therefore, such area is no longer included in the gross leasable area. (2) Excludes (i) new acquisitions, through the earlier of attainment of 90% occupancy or 18 months of ownership, and (ii) properties that are undergoing significant redevelopment or re-tenanting. (3) For an explanation and reconciliation of funds from operations to net income, see "Funds From Operations" below. (4) For an explanation and reconciliation of property net operating income to net income, see "Property Net Operating Income" below. (5) Distribution rate is the same as Class A, but represents a partial year during 2010 for Class B common shares issued August 26, 2010. Effective June 27, 2012, all issued and unissued Class A common shares were reclassified as Class B common shares, and the Class B common shares were redesignated as "common shares." 46 Table of Contents Property revenues. We had rental income and tenant reimbursements of approximately $34,915,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to $31,533,000 for the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $3,382,000, or 11%. The year ended December 31, 2011 included $2,504,000 in increased revenues from New Store operations. Same Store revenues increased $878,000. Same Store average occupancy increased from 83.9% for the year ended December 31, 2010 to 85.7% for the year ended December 31, 2011, increasing Same Store revenue $461,000. The Same Store revenue rate per average leased square foot increased $0.16 for the year ended December 31, 2011 to $12.51 per average leased square foot as compared to the year ended December 31, 2010 revenue rate per average leased square foot of $12.35, increasing Same Store revenue $417,000. The revenue rate per average leased square feet is calculated by dividing the total revenue by the average square feet leased during the period. Property expenses. Our property expenses were $13,327,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011, as compared to $12,283,000 for the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $1,044,000, or 8%. The primary components of total property expenses are detailed in the table below (in thousands): Real estate taxes Utilities Contract services Repairs and maintenance Bad debt Labor and other Total property expenses Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 Increase % Increase (Decrease) (Decrease) $ 4,668 $ 3,925 $ 2,510 2,312 1,222 615 2,000 13,327 $ 2,277 2,140 1,403 536 2,002 12,283 $ $ 743 233 172 (181) 79 (2) 1,044 19 % 10 % 8 % (13)% 15 % — % 8 % Real estate taxes. Real estate taxes increased $743,000, or 19%, during the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010, primarily as a result of New Stores real estate taxes, which increased $492,000. Same Store real estate taxes increased $251,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2010. The Sames Store increase was primarily as a result of our increased assessed values from the various appraisal districts. We actively work to keep our valuations and resulting taxes as low as possible as most of these taxes are passed through to our tenants through triple net leases. Utilities. Utilities increased $233,000, or 10%, during the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. The increase in utility expenses was primarily attributed to New Store increases of $195,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011. Contract services. Contract services increased $172,000, or 8%, during the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010, primarily as a result of New Store contract services, which increased $161,000. Repairs and maintenance. Repairs and maintenance decreased $181,000, or 13%, during the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. New Store repairs and maintenance increased $76,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. Same Store repair and maintenance decreased $257,000 during year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to the same period in 2010. The decrease is primarily comprised of decreases in parking lot repairs of $123,000, HVAC repair and supply costs of $70,000, and hard surface repairs of $53,000 and other net reduced repair and maintenance costs of $11,000. Bad debt. Bad debt for the year ended December 31, 2011 increased $79,000, or 15%, as compared to 2010. The increase for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2010 was comprised of $11,000 from New Store bad debt and $68,000 in Same Store bad debt. We vigorously pursue past due accounts, but expect collection of rents to continue to be challenging for the foreseeable future. Labor and other. Labor and other expenses decreased $2,000 for year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. 47 Table of Contents Same Store and New Store net operating income. The components of Same Store, New Store and total property net operating income are detailed in the table below (in thousands): Property revenues Property expenses Property net operating income Year Ended December 31, Same Store New Store Total 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 $ 32,297 $ 31,419 12,062 $ 20,235 12,117 $ 19,302 $ $ 2,618 1,265 1,353 $ $ 114 $ 34,915 $ 31,533 13,327 166 (52) $ 21,588 12,283 $ 19,250 Other expenses. Our other expenses were $20,281,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011, as compared to $17,251,000 for the year ended December 31, 2010, an increase of $3,030,000, or 18%. The primary components of other expenses, net are detailed in the table below (in thousands): General and administrative Depreciation & amortization Involuntary conversion Interest expense Interest, dividend and other investment income Total other expenses Year Ended December 31, Increase % Increase 2011 2010 (Decrease) (Decrease) $ $ 6,648 7,749 — 6,344 (460) 20,281 $ $ 4,992 6,805 (558) 6,040 (28) 17,251 $ $ 1,656 944 558 304 (432) 3,030 33 % 14 % (100)% 5 % 1,543 % 18 % General and administrative. General and administrative expenses increased approximately $1,656,000, or 33%, for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. The increase in general and administrative expenses included increases in salaries and benefits of $552,000, legal and other professional fees of $458,000, acquisition-related expenses of $456,000, travel and entertainment expenses of $95,000, corporate office expenses of $54,000 and other expenses of $41,000. The increase in salaries and benefits is due to the addition of nine full-time employees and related increased health insurance, 401(k) and relocation costs. The employees were added to our office in Arizona to manage our recent property acquisitions. Legal and professional fees are primarily attributable to litigation with a contractor at our Windsor Park Center in San Antonio and litigation with two former tenants regarding damages to our properties. Acquisition-related expenses and travel increased due to our eight recent acquisitions. Corporate office expenses include software, phone systems and dues and subscription expenses. Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization increased $944,000, or 14%, for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. New Store depreciation increased $357,000 and Same Store depreciation increased $574,000. Our Windsor Park property in San Antonio, Uptown Plaza property in Dallas and Westchase property in Houston comprised the majority of our Same Store depreciation increase. We expect depreciation and amortization to increase as we acquire properties. Involuntary conversion. Involuntary conversion gain was $558,000 for the year ended December 31, 2010. The involuntary conversion gain recognized during the year ended December 31, 2010 represents the completion of the repairs to the 31 properties impacted by Hurricane Ike at costs that were lower than we estimated as of December 31, 2009. The estimated costs were sensitive to the scope requirements of our lenders and labor and material costs of our vendors, and the final costs incurred were more favorable than we anticipated. During the year ended December 31, 2009, we completed a settlement of our insurance claims related to our 31 properties damaged by Hurricane Ike. The settlement was $7,000,000 in its entirety, with $6,500,000 allocated to casualty claims and approximately $500,000 allocated to loss of rents claims. For the year ended December 31, 2009, the $6,500,000 in insurance proceeds allocated to casualty losses were offset by accrued repair costs of $5,100,000 resulting in a gain of $1,400,000. The remaining $100,000 in involuntary conversion gain for the year ended December 31, 2009 was realized on an insurance settlement we completed during 2009 on a chiller unit at our Uptown Tower property in Dallas, Texas. 48 Table of Contents Interest expense. Interest expense increased $304,000, or 5%, for the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. An increase in our average outstanding notes payable balance of $6,016,000 accounted for $333,000 in increased interest expense, offset by a decrease in our effective interest rate to 5.32% for the year ended December 31, 2011 versus 5.53% for the year ended December 31, 2010, resulting in a $225,000 decrease in interest expense. Amortized loan fees included in interest expense increased $196,000 for the year ended December 31, 2011 to $616,000 with the addition of new debt and our revolving credit facility as compared to $420,000 for the year ended December 31, 2010. Interest, dividend and other investment income. Interest, dividend and other investment income increased $432,000 during the year ended December 31, 2011 as compared to 2010. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we realized gains on sales of investments in available-for-sale securities of $192,000, received $226,000 in dividend income and received $42,000 in interest income as compared to $28,000 in interest income we received during the year ended December 31, 2010. 49 Table of Contents Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures Funds From Operations ("FFO") The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts, or NAREIT, defines FFO as net income (loss) available to common shareholders computed in accordance with GAAP, excluding gains or losses from sales of operating real estate assets, impairment charges and extraordinary items, plus depreciation and amortization of operating properties, including our share of unconsolidated real estate joint ventures and partnerships. We calculate FFO in a manner consistent with the NAREIT definition. Management uses FFO as a supplemental measure to conduct and evaluate our business because there are certain limitations associated with using GAAP net income (loss) alone as the primary measure of our operating performance. Historical cost accounting for real estate assets in accordance with GAAP implicitly assumes that the value of real estate assets diminishes predictably over time. Because real estate values instead have historically risen or fallen with market conditions, management believes that the presentation of operating results for real estate companies that use historical cost accounting is insufficient by itself. In addition, securities analysts, investors and other interested parties use FFO as the primary metric for comparing the relative performance of equity REITs. Although our calculation of FFO is consistent with that of NAREIT, there can be no assurance that FFO presented by us is comparable to similarly titled measures of other REITs. FFO should not be considered as an alternative to net income or other measurements under GAAP, as an indicator of our operating performance or to cash flows from operating, investing or financing activities as a measure of liquidity. FFO does not reflect working capital changes, cash expenditures for capital improvements or principal payments on indebtedness. FFO Core Management believes that the computation of FFO in accordance with NAREIT's definition includes certain items that are not indicative of the results provided by our operating portfolio and affect the comparability of our period-over-period performance. These items include, but are not limited to, gains and losses on insurance claim settlements, legal and professional fees and acquisition costs. Therefore, in addition to FFO, management uses FFO Core, which we define to exclude such items. Below are the calculations of FFO and FFO Core and the reconciliations to net income, which we believe is the most comparable GAAP financial measure (in thousands): FFO AND FFO CORE Net income attributable to Whitestone REIT Depreciation and amortization of real estate assets Loss (gain) on disposal of assets Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests FFO Acquisition costs Relocation arrangement Gain on insurance claim settlement Legal and professional costs (recoveries), net FFO Core Year Ended December 31, 2012 2011 2010 $ $ $ $ 50 10,108 112 3 10,273 698 2,177 — (131) 13,017 $ $ $ $ $ $ 1,123 7,625 (251) 210 8,707 666 — — 254 1,105 6,697 160 470 8,432 46 — (558) — $ 9,627 $ 7,920 50 Table of Contents Property Net Operating Income ("NOI") Management believes that NOI is a useful measure of our property operating performance. We define NOI as operating revenues (rental and other revenues) less property and related expenses (property operation and maintenance and real estate taxes). Other REITs may use different methodologies for calculating NOI, and accordingly, our NOI may not be comparable to other REITs. Because NOI excludes general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, involuntary conversion, interest expense, interest income, provision for income taxes and gain or loss on sale or disposition of assets, it provides a performance measure that, when compared year over year, reflects the revenues and expenses directly associated with owning and operating commercial real estate properties and the impact to operations from trends in occupancy rates, rental rates and operating costs, providing perspective not immediately apparent from net income. We use NOI to evaluate our operating performance since NOI allows us to evaluate the impact that factors such as occupancy levels, lease structure, lease rates and tenant base have on our results, margins and returns. In addition, management believes that NOI provides useful information to the investment community about our property and operating performance when compared to other REITs since NOI is generally recognized as a standard measure of property performance in the real estate industry. However, NOI should only be used as a supplemental measure of our overall financial performance since it does not reflect certain expenses necessary to maintain the operating performance of our properties. Below is the calculation of NOI and the reconciliation to net income, which we believe is the most comparable GAAP financial measure (in thousands): PROPERTY NET OPERATING INCOME ("NOI") Net income attributable to Whitestone REIT General and administrative expenses Depreciation and amortization Executive relocation expense Involuntary conversion Interest expense Interest, dividend and other investment income Provision for income taxes Loss on sale or disposal of assets Gain on sale of property Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests NOI Taxes Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 2012 $ $ 50 7,616 10,229 2,177 — 8,732 (290) 286 112 — 3 28,915 $ $ 1,123 6,648 7,749 — — 6,344 (460) 225 146 (397) 210 21,588 $ $ 1,105 4,992 6,805 — (558) 6,040 (28) 264 160 — 470 19,250 We elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code beginning with our taxable year ended December 31, 1999. As a REIT, we generally are not subject to federal income tax on income that we distribute to our shareholders. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will be subject to federal income tax on our taxable income at regular corporate rates. We believe that we are organized and operate in a manner to qualify and be taxed as a REIT, and we intend to operate so as to remain qualified as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. Inflation We anticipate that the majority of our leases will continue to be triple-net leases or otherwise provide that tenants pay for increases in operating expenses and will contain provisions that we believe will mitigate the effect of inflation. In addition, many of our leases are for terms of less than five years, which allows us to adjust rental rates to reflect inflation and other changing market conditions when the leases expire. Consequently, increases due to inflation, as well as ad valorem tax rate increases, generally do not have a significant adverse effect upon our operating results. 51 Table of Contents Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements We have no significant off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2012. Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. Our future income, cash flows and fair value relevant to our financial instruments depend upon prevailing market interest rates. Market risk refers to the risk of loss from adverse changes in market prices and interest rates. Based upon the nature of our operations, we are not subject to foreign exchange rate or commodity price risk. The principal market risk to which we are exposed is the risk related to interest rate fluctuations. Many factors, including governmental monetary and tax policies, domestic and international economic and political considerations, and other factors that are beyond our control contribute to interest rate risk. Our interest rate risk objective is to limit the impact of interest rate fluctuations on earnings and cash flows and to lower our overall borrowing costs. To achieve this objective, we manage our exposure to fluctuations in market interest rates for our borrowings through the use of fixed rate debt instruments to the extent that reasonably favorable rates are obtainable. All of our financial instruments were entered into for other than trading purposes. Fixed Interest Rate Debt As of December 31, 2012, $97.9 million, or approximately 51%, of our outstanding debt was subject to fixed interest rates, which limit the risk of fluctuating interest rates. Included in our total fixed interest rate debt is $7.9 million of variable rate debt, subject to a hedge, which fixes the interest rate for the term of the note. Though a change in the market interest rates affects the fair market value, it does not impact net income to shareholders or cash flows. Our total outstanding fixed interest rate debt has an average effective interest rate at this time of approximately 6.3% per annum with expirations ranging from 2013 to 2021 (see note 8 to our accompanying consolidated financial statements for further detail). Holding other variables constant, a 1% increase or decrease in interest rates would cause a $1.0 million decline or increase, respectively, in the fair value for our fixed rate debt. Variable Interest Rate Debt As of December 31, 2012, we had $92.7 million of loans, or approximately 49% of our outstanding debt, subject to floating interest rates of LIBOR plus 2.75% to 3.75% and not currently subject to a hedge. As of December 31, 2012, we had a fixed rate hedge on $7.9 million of variable rate debt, which is not subject to interest rate fluctuations due to the hedge in place for the term of the note. The impact of a 1% increase or decrease in interest rates on our floating rate debt would result in a decrease or increase of annual net income of approximately $0.9 million, respectively. Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. The information required by this Item 8 is incorporated by reference to our Financial Statements beginning on page F-1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. None. 52 Item 9A. Controls and Procedures. Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures In connection with the preparation of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as of December 31, 2012, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act. In performing this evaluation, management reviewed the selection, application and monitoring of our historical accounting policies. Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO concluded that as of December 31, 2012, these disclosure controls and procedures were effective and designed to ensure that the information required to be disclosed in our reports filed with the SEC is recorded, processed, summarized and reported on a timely basis. In designing and evaluating disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. Management is required to apply judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on our evaluation under this framework, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2012. The Company's independent registered public accounting firm has issued a report on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting, which appears on page F-3 of this annual report. Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting There have been no changes during the Company's quarter ended December 31, 2012, in the Company's internal controls over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financing reporting. Item 9B. Other Information. None. 53 Table of Contents PART III Item 10. Trustees, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance. The information required by Item 10 of Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to such information as set forth in the definitive proxy statement for our 2013 annual meeting of shareholders. Item 11. Executive Compensation. The information required by Item 11 of Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to such information as set forth in the definitive proxy statement for our 2013 annual meeting of shareholders. Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters. The following table provides information regarding our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2012: Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) (a) (b) (c) — (1) $ — — $ — — — 1,888,534 (2) — (3) 1,888,534 Plan Category Equity compensation plans approved by security holders Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders Total (1) Excludes 632,589 common shares subject to outstanding restricted common share units granted pursuant to our 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan, as amended (the "Plan"). (2) Pursuant the Plan, the maximum aggregate number of common shares that may be issued under the Plan will be increased upon each issuance of common shares by the Company so that at any time the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan shall equal 12.5% of the aggregate number of common shares of the Company and OP units issued and outstanding (other than units issued to or held by the Company). (3) Excludes 8,333 restricted common shares issued to trustees outside the Plan. The remaining information required by Item 12 of Form 10-K is incorporated by reference to such information as set forth in the definitive proxy statement for our 2013 annual meeting of shareholders. Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence. The information required by Item 13 of Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to such information as set forth in the definitive proxy statement for our 2013 annual meeting of shareholders. Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services. The information required by Item 14 of Form 10-K is incorporated herein by reference to such information as set forth in the definitive proxy statement for our 2013 annual meeting of shareholders. 54 Table of Contents PART IV Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules. 1. Financial Statements. The list of our financial statements filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is set forth on page F-1 herein. 2. Financial Statement Schedules. a. Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts b. Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation All other financial statement schedules have been omitted because the required information of such schedules is not present, is not present in amounts sufficient to require a schedule or is included in the consolidated financial statements. 3. Exhibits. The list of exhibits filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K in response to Item 601 of Regulation S- K is submitted on the Exhibit Index attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. 55 Table of Contents SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. WHITESTONE REIT Date: March 13, 2013 By: /s/ James C. Mastandrea James C. Mastandrea, Chairman and CEO POWER OF ATTORNEY KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENT, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints James C. Mastandrea and David K. Holeman, and each of them, acting individually, as his attorney-in-fact, each with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in connection therewith and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any of them, or their or his or her substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated. March 13, 2013 March 13, 2013 March 13, 2013 March 13, 2013 March 13, 2013 March 13, 2013 /s/ James C. Mastandrea James C. Mastandrea, Chairman and CEO (Principal Executive Officer) /s/ David K. Holeman David K. Holeman, Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Principal Accounting Officer) /s/ Daryl J. Carter Daryl J. Carter, Trustee /s/ Daniel G. DeVos Daniel G. DeVos, Trustee /s/ Donald F. Keating Donald F. Keating, Trustee /s/ Jack L. Mahaffey Jack L. Mahaffey, Trustee 56 Table of Contents INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule III – Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Page F- 2 F- 4 F- 5 F- 7 F- 9 F- 11 F- 30 F- 31 All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore have been omitted. F- 1 Table of Contents REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM To the Board of Trustees and Shareholders of Whitestone REIT: We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Whitestone REIT and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2012. In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we have also audited the financial statement schedules as listed in the accompanying index. These consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Whitestone REIT and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2012 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein. We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Whitestone REIT and subsidiaries' internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated March 13, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. /s/ Pannell Kerr Forster of Texas, P.C. Houston, Texas March 13, 2013 F- 2 Table of Contents REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM To the Board of Trustees and Shareholders of Whitestone REIT: We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Whitestone REIT and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). 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 as presented within Item 9A. Controls and Procedures. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). 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, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. 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. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by COSO. We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Whitestone REIT and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2012, and our report dated March 13, 2013, expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. /s/ Pannell Kerr Forster of Texas, P.C. Houston, Texas March 13, 2013 F- 3 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands, except per share data) December 31, 2012 2011 ASSETS Real estate assets, at cost Property Accumulated depreciation Total real estate assets Cash and cash equivalents Marketable securities Escrows and acquisition deposits Accrued rents and accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts Related party receivable Unamortized lease commissions and loan costs Prepaid expenses and other assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Total assets Liabilities: Notes payable Accounts payable and accrued expenses Tenants' security deposits Dividends and distributions payable Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies: Equity: Preferred shares, $0.001 par value per share; 50,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 Common shares, $0.001 par value per share; 400,000,000 shares authorized; 16,943,098 and 11,437,855 issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively Additional paid-in capital Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated deficit Total Whitestone REIT shareholders' equity Noncontrolling interest in subsidiary Total equity Total liabilities and equity $ $ $ $ $ $ 409,669 (53,920) 355,749 6,544 1,403 6,672 7,947 652 4,160 2,244 385,371 190,608 13,824 3,024 5,028 212,484 — — 16 224,237 (392) (57,830) 166,031 6,856 172,887 $ 385,371 $ 292,360 (45,472) 246,888 5,695 5,131 4,996 6,053 — 3,755 975 273,493 127,890 9,017 2,232 3,647 142,786 — — 10 158,127 (1,119) (41,060) 115,958 14,749 130,707 273,493 See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F- 4 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (in thousands, except per share data) Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 2012 Property revenues Rental revenues Other revenues Total property revenues Property expenses Property operation and maintenance Real estate taxes Total property expenses Other expenses (income) General and administrative Depreciation and amortization Executive relocation expense Involuntary conversion Interest expense Interest, dividend and other investment income Total other expense $ 36,131 $ 27,814 $ 25,901 10,423 46,554 7,101 34,915 5,632 31,533 11,255 6,384 17,639 8,659 4,668 13,327 8,358 3,925 12,283 7,616 10,229 2,177 — 8,732 (290) 28,464 6,648 7,749 — — 6,344 (460) 20,281 4,992 6,805 — (558) 6,040 (28) 17,251 Income before loss on sale or disposal of assets and income taxes 451 1,307 1,999 Provision for income taxes Loss on sale or disposal of assets Income before gain on sale of property Gain on sale of property Net income Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (286) (112) 53 — 53 3 (225) (146) 936 397 1,333 (264) (160) 1,575 — 1,575 210 470 Net income attributable to Whitestone REIT $ 50 $ 1,123 $ 1,105 See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F- 5 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (in thousands, except per share data) Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 2012 Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share: Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares $ 0.00 $ 0.12 $ 0.27 Weighted average number of common shares outstanding: Basic Diluted 13,496 13,613 9,028 9,042 4,012 4,041 Distributions declared per common share / OP unit $ 1.1400 $ 1.1400 $ 0.8550 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Net income $ 53 $ 1,333 $ 1,575 Other comprehensive gain (loss) Unrealized gain on cash flow hedging activities Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale marketable securities Comprehensive income Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests 1 920 974 57 Comprehensive income attributable to Whitestone REIT $ 917 $ — (1,329) 4 1 3 — — 1,575 470 $ 1,105 See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F- 6 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (in thousands, except per share and unit data) Common Shares Shares Amount Additional Paid-in Capital Accumulated Other Total Noncontrolling Accumulated Comprehensive Shareholders' Interests Deficit Loss Equity Units Dollars Total Equity Balance, December 31, 2009 3,446 $ 10 $ 69,952 $ (26,372) $ — $ 43,590 1,815 $ 23,269 $ 66,859 Change in par value of common shares — (7) Issuance of common shares (1) 2,200 Share-based compensation Distributions Repurchase of common shares (2) Reclassification of dividend reinvestment plan shares with expired rescission rights to equity from liabilities at $28.50 per share Net income Balance, December 31, 2010 Issuance of common shares (3) Exchange of noncontrolling interest OP units for common shares Issuance of common shares under dividend reinvestment plan Share-based compensation Distributions Unrealized loss on change in fair value of available-for-sale marketable securities Net income 41 — (16) — — 5,671 5,310 454 3 — — — — Balance, December 31, 2011 11,438 Exchange of noncontrolling interest OP units for common shares Exchange offer costs Issuance of common shares (4) Issuance of common shares under dividend reinvestment plan Shared-based compensation Distributions Unrealized gain on change in value of cash flow hedge Unrealized gain on change in fair value of available-for sale marketable securities Net income 676 — 4,830 7 (8) — — — 2 — — — — — 5 5 — — — — — — 10 1 5 — — — — — — 7 22,968 73 — (249) 606 — 93,357 59,678 4,972 6 114 — — — — — — (5,387) — — 1,105 (30,654) — — — — (11,529) — 1,123 — — — — — — — — — — — — — (1,119) — 7,272 (479) 58,674 90 553 — — — — — — — — — (16,820) — — 50 (127) — (13) — — — 1 866 — — 22,970 73 (5,387) (249) 606 1,105 — — — — — — — — — — — 22,970 73 (2,164) (7,551) — (249) — 470 606 1,575 62,708 1,815 21,575 84,283 59,683 — — 59,683 4,972 (454) (4,972) 6 114 (11,529) (1,119) 1,123 — — — — — (479) 58,666 90 553 (16,820) 1 866 50 — — — — — — — — (1,854) (13,383) (210) (1,329) 210 1,333 — 6 114 — (479) 58,679 90 553 — — — 13 — — (817) (17,637) — 54 3 1 920 53 158,127 (41,060) (1,119) 115,958 1,361 14,749 130,707 7,146 (676) (7,146) Balance, December 31, 2012 16,943 $ 16 $ 224,237 $ (57,830) $ (392) $ 166,031 685 $ 6,856 $ 172,887 (1) Net of offering costs of $3.4 million. F- 7 Table of Contents (2) During the three months ended June 30, 2010, the Company acquired Class A common shares held by employees who tendered Class A common shares to satisfy the tax withholding on the lapse of certain restrictions on restricted shares. (3) Net of offering costs of $4.0 million. (4) Net of offering costs of $3.1 million. See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F- 8 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 2012 Cash flows from operating activities: Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: $ 53 $ 1,333 $ 1,575 Depreciation and amortization Amortization of deferred loan costs Amortization of notes payable discount Gain on sale of marketable securities Loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets and properties Bad debt expense Share-based compensation Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Escrows and acquisition deposits Accrued rent and accounts receivable Related party receivable Unamortized lease commissions Prepaid expenses and other assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses Tenants' security deposits Net cash provided by operating activities Cash flows from investing activities: Acquisitions of real estate Additions to real estate Proceeds from sale of property Investments in marketable securities Proceeds from sales of marketable securities Net cash used in investing activities Cash flows from financing activities: Distributions paid to common shareholders Distributions paid to OP unit holders Proceeds from issuance of common shares, net of offering costs Payments of exchange offer costs Proceeds from revolving credit facility, net Proceeds from notes payable Repayments of notes payable Payments of loan origination costs Repurchase of common stock Net cash provided by financing activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 10,229 1,426 317 (110) 112 1,004 725 (1,104) (2,930) (652) (994) (525) 2,875 792 11,218 (98,350) (10,815) — (750) 5,508 (104,407) (15,324) (1,004) 58,679 (479) 58,000 — (4,146) (1,688) — 94,038 849 5,695 6,544 $ $ 7,749 616 — (192) (251) 615 310 (519) (1,939) — (995) 296 993 436 8,452 (65,910) (7,568) 1,567 (13,520) 7,252 (78,179) (10,045) (1,974) 59,683 — 11,000 2,905 (3,128) (610) — 57,831 (11,896) 17,591 5,695 $ 6,805 420 — — 160 536 297 3,840 (748) — (783) 446 (2,319) 166 10,395 (8,625) (4,143) — — — (12,768) (5,158) (2,249) 22,970 — — 1,430 (2,957) (98) (249) 13,689 11,316 6,275 17,591 See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F- 9 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Supplemental Disclosures (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 2012 Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Cash paid for interest Cash paid for taxes Non cash investing and financing activities: Disposal of fully depreciated real estate Financed insurance premiums Value of shares issued under dividend reinvestment plan Acquired interest rate swap Debt discount on acquired note payable Value of common shares exchanged for OP units Change in fair value of available-for-sale securities Change in fair value of cash flow hedge Debt assumed with acquisitions of real estate Change in par value of common shares Reclassification of dividend reinvestment shares with rescission rights $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 7,137 326 $ $ 5,719 215 $ $ 5,621 262 — $ 856 $ 90 $ $ 1,901 (1,329) $ $ 7,272 $ 920 $ 1 $ 9,166 — $ — $ $ 238 $ 649 6 $ — $ — $ 4,972 $ (1,329) $ — $ $ — $ — $ 15,425 598 616 — — — — — — — 7 606 See the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F- 10 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND NATURE OF OPERATIONS Whitestone REIT (“Whitestone”) was formed as a real estate investment trust, pursuant to the Texas Real Estate Investment Trust Act on August 20, 1998. In July 2004, we changed our state of organization from Texas to Maryland pursuant to a merger where we merged directly with and into a Maryland real estate investment trust formed for the sole purpose of the reorganization and the conversion of each of our outstanding common shares of beneficial interest of the Texas entity into 1.42857 common shares of beneficial interest of the Maryland entity. We serve as the general partner of Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, L.P. (the “Operating Partnership” or “WROP” or “OP”), which was formed on December 31, 1998 as a Delaware limited partnership. We currently conduct substantially all of our operations and activities through the Operating Partnership. As the general partner of the Operating Partnership, we have the exclusive power to manage and conduct the business of the Operating Partnership, subject to certain customary exceptions. As of December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we owned and operated 51, 45, and 38 properties, respectively, including retail, warehouse and office properties in and around Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Chicago and Phoenix. 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of Consolidation. We are the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership and possess full legal control and authority over the operations of the Operating Partnership. As of December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we owned a majority of the partnership interests in the Operating Partnership. Consequently, the accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Operating Partnership. All significant inter-company balances have been eliminated. Noncontrolling interest in the accompanying consolidated financial statements represents the share of equity and earnings of the Operating Partnership allocable to holders of partnership interests other than us. Net income or loss is allocated to noncontrolling interests based on the weighted-average percentage ownership of the Operating Partnership during the year. Issuance of additional common shares of beneficial interest in Whitestone (the “common shares”) and units of limited partnership interest in the Operating Partnership that are convertible into cash or, at our option, common shares on a one-for- one basis (the "OP units") changes the percentage of ownership interests of both the noncontrolling interests and Whitestone. Basis of Accounting. Our financial records are maintained on the accrual basis of accounting whereby revenues are recognized when earned and expenses are recorded when incurred. Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates that we use include the estimated fair values of properties acquired, the estimated useful lives for depreciable and amortizable assets and costs, the estimated allowance for doubtful accounts, the estimated fair value of interest rate swaps and the estimates supporting our impairment analysis for the carrying values of our real estate assets. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Reclassifications. We have reclassified certain prior year amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements in order to be consistent with the current fiscal year presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on net income, total assets, total liabilities or equity. During 2012, we reclassified the amortization of our loan fees, previously classified as general and administrative expenses, to interest expense for all periods presented. On June 27, 2012, our Class A and Class B common shares were consolidated into a single class of common shares. See Note 12 for additional discussion related to the consolidation of Class A and Class B common shares into a single class of common shares. Share-Based Compensation. From time to time, we award nonvested restricted common share awards or restricted common share unit awards, which may be converted into common shares, to executive officers and employees under our 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan (the “2008 Plan”). The vast majority of the awarded shares and units vest when certain performance conditions are met. We recognize compensation expense when achievement of the performance conditions is probable based on management’s most recent estimates using the fair value of the shares as of the grant date. We recognized $0.7 million, $0.3 million and $0.3 million in share-based compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. F- 11 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 Noncontrolling Interests. Noncontrolling interests are the portion of equity in a subsidiary not attributable to a parent. The ownership interests not held by the parent are considered noncontrolling interests. Accordingly, we have reported noncontrolling interests in equity on the consolidated balance sheets but separate from Whitestone’s equity. On the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income, subsidiaries are reported at the consolidated amount, including both the amount attributable to Whitestone and noncontrolling interests. Consolidated statements of changes in equity are included for both quarterly and annual financial statements, including beginning balances, activity for the period and ending balances for shareholders’ equity, noncontrolling interests and total equity. Revenue Recognition. All leases on our properties are classified as operating leases, and the related rental income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the related leases. Differences between rental income earned and amounts due per the respective lease agreements are capitalized or charged, as applicable, to accrued rents and accounts receivable. Percentage rents are recognized as rental income when the thresholds upon which they are based have been met. Recoveries from tenants for taxes, insurance, and other operating expenses are recognized as revenues in the period the corresponding costs are incurred. We have established an allowance for doubtful accounts against the portion of tenant accounts receivable which is estimated to be uncollectible. Cash and Cash Equivalents. We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 consisted of demand deposits at commercial banks and brokerage accounts. Marketable Securities. We classify our existing marketable equity securities as available-for-sale in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board's ("FASB") Investments-Debt and Equity Securities guidance. These securities are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported in equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income or loss. The fair value of the marketable securities is determined using Level 1 inputs under FASB Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures." Level 1 inputs represent quoted prices available in an active market for identical investments as of the reporting date. Gains and losses on securities sold are based on the specific identification method, and are reported as a component of interest, dividend and other investment income. We recognized a gain on the sale of marketable securities of approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. No gain or loss was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2010. As of December 31, 2012, our investment in available-for-sale marketable securities was approximately $1.4 million, which includes an aggregate unrealized loss of approximately $0.4 million. Real Estate Development Properties. Land, buildings and improvements are recorded at cost. Expenditures related to the development of real estate are carried at cost which includes capitalized carrying charges and development costs. Carrying charges, primarily interest, real estate taxes and loan acquisition costs, and direct and indirect development costs related to buildings under construction, are capitalized as part of construction in progress. The capitalization of such costs ceases when the property, or any completed portion, becomes available for occupancy. Prior to that time, we expense these costs as acquisition expense. For the year ended December 31, 2012, approximately $176,000 and $147,000 in interest expense and real estate taxes, respectively, were capitalized. No interest was capitalized for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010. F- 12 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 Acquired Properties and Acquired Lease Intangibles. We allocate the purchase price of the acquired properties to land, building and improvements, identifiable intangible assets and to the acquired liabilities based on their respective fair values. Identifiable intangibles include amounts allocated to acquired out-of-market leases, the value of in-place leases and customer relationship value, if any. We determine fair value based on estimated cash flow projections that utilize appropriate discount and capitalization rates and available market information. Estimates of future cash flows are based on a number of factors including the historical operating results, known trends and specific market and economic conditions that may affect the property. Factors considered by management in our analysis of determining the as-if-vacant property value include an estimate of carrying costs during the expected lease-up periods considering market conditions, and costs to execute similar leases. In estimating carrying costs, management includes real estate taxes, insurance and estimates of lost rentals at market rates during the expected lease-up periods, tenant demand and other economic conditions. Management also estimates costs to execute similar leases including leasing commissions, tenant improvements, legal and other related expenses. Intangibles related to out-of-market leases and in-place lease value are recorded as acquired lease intangibles and are amortized as an adjustment to rental revenue or amortization expense, as appropriate, over the remaining terms of the underlying leases. Premiums or discounts on acquired out-of-market debt are amortized to interest expense over the remaining term of such debt. Depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of 5 to 39 years for improvements and buildings, respectively. Tenant improvements are depreciated using the straight-line method over the life of the improvement or remaining term of the lease, whichever is shorter. Impairment. We review our properties for impairment at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets, including accrued rental income, may not be recoverable through operations. We determine whether an impairment in value has occurred by comparing the estimated future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges), including the estimated residual value of the property, with the carrying cost of the property. If impairment is indicated, a loss will be recorded for the amount by which the carrying value of the property exceeds its fair value. Management has determined that there has been no impairment in the carrying value of our real estate assets as of December 31, 2012. Accrued Rents and Accounts Receivable. Included in accrued rent and accounts receivable are base rents, tenant reimbursements and receivables attributable to recording rents on a straight-line basis. An allowance for the uncollectible portion of accrued rents and accounts receivable is determined based upon customer credit-worthiness (including expected recovery of our claim with respect to any tenants in bankruptcy), historical bad debt levels, and current economic trends. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we had an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $2.3 million and $1.4 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we recorded bad debt expense in the amount of $1.0 million, $0.6 million and $0.5 million, respectively, related to tenant receivables that we specifically identified as potentially uncollectible based on our assessment of each tenant’s credit-worthiness. Bad debt expenses and any related recoveries are included in property operation and maintenance expense. Unamortized Lease Commissions and Loan Costs. Leasing commissions are amortized using the straight-line method over the terms of the related lease agreements. Loan costs are amortized on the straight-line method over the terms of the loans, which approximates the interest method. Costs allocated to in-place leases whose terms differ from market terms related to acquired properties are amortized over the remaining life of the respective leases. Prepaids and Other Assets. Prepaids and other assets include escrows established pursuant to certain mortgage financing arrangements for real estate taxes and insurance and acquisition deposits which include earnest money deposits on future acquisitions. As part of the executive relocation arrangement discussed in Note 11, we issued a note receivable for $975,000 to the buyer. The note bears interest at a rate of 4.5% and matures on December 31, 2013. Federal Income Taxes. We elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Code beginning with our taxable year ended December 31, 1999. As a REIT, we generally are not subject to federal income tax on income that we distribute to our shareholders. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will be subject to federal income tax on our taxable income at regular corporate rates. We believe that we are organized and operate in such a manner as to qualify to be taxed as a REIT, and we intend to operate so as to remain qualified as a REIT for federal income tax purposes. F- 13 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 State Taxes. We are subject to the Texas Margin Tax, which is computed by applying the applicable tax rate (1% for us) to the profit margin, which, generally, will be determined for us as total revenue less a 30% standard deduction. Although the Texas Margin Tax is not considered an income tax, FASB ASC 740, “Income Taxes” (“ASC 740”) applies to the Texas Margin Tax. We have recorded a margin tax expense of $0.3 million for the Texas Margin Tax for each of the years ended December 31, 2012, and 2010 and $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. Fair Value of Financial Instruments. Our financial instruments consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts and notes payable and investments in marketable securities. The carrying value of cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable are representative of their respective fair values due to their short-term nature. The fair value of our long-term debt, consisting of fixed rate secured notes, variable rate secured notes and an unsecured revolving credit facility aggregate to approximately $192.4 million and $129.2 million as compared to the book value of approximately $190.6 million and $127.9 million as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The fair value of our long-term debt is estimated on a level 2 basis (as provided by ASC 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures"), using a discounted cash flow analysis based on the borrowing rates currently available to us for loans with similar terms and maturities, discounting the future contractual interest and principal payments. Disclosure about fair value of financial instruments is based on pertinent information available to management as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. Although management is not aware of any factors that would significantly affect the fair value amounts, such amounts have not been comprehensively revalued for purposes of these financial statements since December 31, 2012 and current estimates of fair value may differ significantly from the amounts presented herein. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. On August 8, 2012, as part of our acquisition of Paradise Plaza (see Note 4), we assumed a $9.2 million variable rate note (see Note 8). The note included an interest rate swap that had a fixed interest rate of 5.72%. We have designated the interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge with the effective portion of the changes in fair value recorded in comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value, if any, is recognized directly in earnings. As of December 31, 2012, we consider our cash flow hedge to be highly effective. Our cash flow hedge is determined using level 2 inputs under ASC 820. Level 2 inputs represent quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable. As of December 31, 2012, the fair value of our cash flow hedge was $1.8 million. We recognized $1,000 as other comprehensive losses and $146,000 as interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2012. Concentration of Risk. Substantially all of our revenues are obtained from office, warehouse and retail locations in the Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Phoenix and Chicago metropolitan areas. We maintain cash accounts in major U.S. financial institutions. The terms of these deposits are on demand to minimize risk. The balances of these accounts sometimes exceed the federally insured limits, although no losses have been incurred in connection with these deposits. Recent accounting pronouncements. In December 2010, the FASB issued new guidance clarifying that the disclosure of supplementary pro forma information for business combinations should be presented such that revenues and earnings of the combined entity are calculated as though the relevant business combinations that occurred during the current reporting period had occurred as of the beginning of the comparable prior annual reporting period. The guidance also improves the usefulness of the supplementary pro forma information by requiring a description of the nature and amount of material, non-recurring pro forma adjustments that are directly attributable to the business combinations. We adopted these provisions for our consolidated financial statements beginning with the year ended December 31, 2011. Thus the application of these provisions is reflected in the supplementary pro forma disclosures for our acquisitions, as described in Note 4. In June 2011, the FASB issued guidance eliminating the option to present components of other comprehensive income solely as part of the statement of shareholders' equity and requires the presentation of components of net income and components of other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. In December 2011, the FASB deferred the requirement to present reclassification adjustments for each component of accumulated other comprehensive income in both net income and other comprehensive income on the face of the financial statements. We adopted these provisions for our consolidated financial statements beginning with the quarter ended June 30, 2011. F- 14 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 In February 2013, the FASB issued guidance requiring entities to disclose certain information relating to amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. We do not expect the pronouncement to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. 3. MARKETABLE SECURITIES All of our marketable securities were classified as available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. We had no investment in marketable securities as of December 31, 2010. Available-for-sale securities consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2012 Gains in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Estimated Fair Value Amortized Cost Real estate sector exchange-traded fund Real estate sector mutual funds Real estate sector common stock Total available-for-sale securities $ $ — $ — 1,811 1,811 $ — $ — — — $ — $ — (408) (408) $ — — 1,403 1,403 December 31, 2011 Gains in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Estimated Fair Value Amortized Cost Real estate sector exchange-traded fund Real estate sector mutual funds Real estate sector common stock Total available-for-sale securities $ $ 301 351 5,808 6,460 $ $ — $ — — — $ (37) $ (55) (1,237) (1,329) $ 264 296 4,571 5,131 During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, available-for-sale securities were sold for total proceeds of $5,508,000 and $7,252,000, respectively. No available-for-sale securities were sold during the year ended December 31, 2010. The gross realized gains and losses on these sales totaled $152,000 and $42,000, respectively, in 2012 and $302,000 and $110,000, respectively, in 2011. For the purpose of determining gross realized gains and losses, the cost of securities sold is based on specific identification. A net unrealized holding loss on available-for-sale securities in the amount of $408,000 and $1,329,000 for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, has been included in accumulated other comprehensive income. 4. REAL ESTATE As of December 31, 2012, we owned 51 commercial properties in the Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Phoenix and Chicago areas comprised of approximately 4.3 million square feet of gross leasable area. Property Acquisitions. On December 28, 2012 we acquired the Shops at Pecos Ranch, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $19.0 million in cash and net prorations. The 78,767 square foot property was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Chandler, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. Revenue and income of $14,000 and $13,000, respectively, have been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. F- 15 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 On September 21, 2012, we acquired Village Square at Dana Park, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $46.5 million in cash and net prorations. The 310,979 square foot property was 71% leased at the time of purchase and is located in the Mesa submarket of Phoenix, Arizona. In the same purchase, we also acquired an adjacent development parcel of 4.7 acres for approximately $4.0 million in cash. Revenue and income of $1,527,000 and $438,000, respectively, have been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. On September 21, 2012, we acquired Fountain Square, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $15.4 million in cash and net prorations. The 118,209 square foot property was 76% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Revenue and income of $425,000 and $171,000, respectively, have been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. On August 8, 2012, we acquired Paradise Plaza, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $16.3 million, including the assumption of a $9.2 million non-recourse loan, and cash of $7.1 million. Paradise Plaza was 100% leased at the time of purchase with 125,898 of square feet of gross leasable area, and is located in Paradise Valley, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. Revenue and income of $827,000 and $499,000, respectively, have been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. On May 29, 2012, we acquired the Shops at Pinnacle Peak, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $6.4 million in cash and net prorations. The 41,530 square foot property was 76% leased at the time of purchase and is located in North Scottsdale, Arizona. Revenue and income of $419,000 and $198,000, respectively, have been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. On December 28, 2011, we acquired the Shops at Starwood, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $15.7 million in cash and net prorations. The 55,385 square foot class A property was 98% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Frisco, Texas, a northern suburb of Dallas. The Shops at Starwood has a complementary tenant mix of restaurants, fashion boutiques, salons and second-level office space. On December 28, 2011, we acquired Starwood Phase III, a 2.73 acre parcel of undeveloped land adjacent to the Shops at Starwood for approximately $1.9 million, including a non-recourse loan we assumed for $1.4 million, secured by the land, and cash of $0.5 million. The Phase III development site fronts the Dallas North Tollway within the Tollway Overlay District, which grants the highest allowed density of any zoning district. No revenue or income has been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. On December 28, 2011, we acquired Pinnacle of Scottsdale Phase II ("Pinnacle Phase II"), a 4.45 acre parcel of developed land adjacent to Pinnacle for approximately $1.0 million in cash and net prorations. Pinnacle Phase II has approximately 400 linear feet of frontage on Scottsdale Road and the potential for additional retail development. No revenue or income has been included in our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2012 since the date of acquisition. On December 22, 2011, we acquired Phase I of Pinnacle of Scottsdale ("Pinnacle"), a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $28.8 million, including a non-recourse loan we assumed for $14.1 million, secured by the property and cash of $14.7 million. The 113,108 square foot Class A property was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in North Scottsdale. On August 16, 2011, we acquired Ahwatukee Plaza Shopping Center, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $9.3 million in cash and net prorations. The 72,650 square foot property was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in the Ahwatukee Foothills neighborhood in south Phoenix, Arizona. On August 8, 2011, we acquired Terravita Marketplace, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $16.1 million in cash and net prorations. The 102,733 square foot property, inclusive of 51,434 square feet leased to two tenants pursuant to ground leases, was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. F- 16 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 On June 28, 2011, we acquired Gilbert Tuscany Village, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $5.0 million in cash and net prorations. The 49,415 square foot property was 16% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Gilbert, Arizona. On April 13, 2011, we acquired Desert Canyon Shopping Center, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $3.7 million in cash and net prorations. The 62,533 square foot property, inclusive of 12,960 square feet leased to two tenants pursuant to ground leases, was 65% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Mcdowell Mountain Ranch in northern Scottsdale, Arizona. On November 1, 2010, we acquired Marketplace at Central, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for approximately $6.4 million in cash and net prorations. The 111,130 square foot property was 49% leased and is located in central Phoenix, Arizona. On September 28, 2010, we acquired The Citadel, a property that meets our Community Centered Property strategy, for $2.2 million in cash and net prorations. The 28,547 square foot property was 16% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Unaudited pro forma results of operations. The pro forma unaudited results summarized below reflect our consolidated pro forma results of operations as if our acquisitions for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 were acquired on January 1, 2010 and includes no other material adjustments: UNAUDITED PRO FORMA RESULTS OF OPERATIONS INCOME STATEMENT DATA Operating revenue Net income Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 2012 $ $ 54,620 3,027 $ $ 53,004 9,021 $ $ 51,990 10,123 Acquisition costs. Acquisition-related costs of $698,000, $666,000 and $46,000 are included in general and administrative expenses in our income statements for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Property dispositions. On July 22, 2011, we sold Greens Road Plaza, located in Houston, Texas, for $1.8 million in cash and net prorations. We have reinvested the proceeds from the sale of the 20,607 square foot property located in northeast Houston in acquisitions of Community Centered Properties in our target markets. As a result of the transaction, we recorded a gain on sale of property of $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. 5. ACCRUED RENTS AND ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NET Accrued rents and accounts receivable, net, consists of amounts accrued, billed and due from tenants, allowance for doubtful accounts and other receivables as follows (in thousands): Tenant receivables Accrued rents and other recoveries Allowance for doubtful accounts Totals December 31, 2012 2011 $ $ 3,536 $ 6,696 (2,285) 7,947 $ 1,914 5,505 (1,366) 6,053 F- 17 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 6. UNAMORTIZED LEASE COMMISSIONS AND LOAN COSTS Costs which have been deferred consist of the following (in thousands): Leasing commissions Deferred financing cost Total cost Less: leasing commissions accumulated amortization Less: deferred financing cost accumulated amortization Total cost, net of accumulated amortization December 31, 2012 2011 $ $ 5,530 $ 4,574 10,104 (2,899) (3,045) 4,160 $ 5,326 2,916 8,242 (2,861) (1,626) 3,755 A summary of expected future amortization of deferred costs is as follows (in thousands): Years Ended December 31, 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Thereafter Total Leasing Commissions Deferred Financing Costs Total $ $ 726 542 411 315 223 414 2,631 $ $ 920 498 101 7 3 — 1,529 $ $ 1,646 1,040 512 322 226 414 4,160 7. FUTURE MINIMUM LEASE INCOME We lease the majority of our properties under noncancelable operating leases, which provide for minimum base rents plus, in some instances, contingent rents based upon a percentage of the tenants’ gross receipts. A summary of minimum future rents to be received (exclusive of renewals, tenant reimbursements, and contingent rents) under noncancelable operating leases in existence as of December 31, 2012 is as follows (in thousands): 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Thereafter Total Years Ended December 31, F- 18 Minimum Future Rents $ $ 39,488 33,133 26,087 20,622 15,319 53,245 187,894 Table of Contents 8. DEBT WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 Mortgages and other notes payable consist of the following (in thousands): Description Fixed rate notes $1.1 million 4.71% Note, due 2013 (1) $14.1 million 5.695% Note, due 2013 $3.0 million 6.00% Note, due 2021 (2) $10.0 million 6.04% Note, due 2014 $1.5 million 6.50% Note, due 2014 $11.2 million 6.52% Note, due 2015 $21.4 million 6.53% Notes, due 2013 $24.5 million 6.56% Note, due 2013 $9.9 million 6.63% Notes, due 2014 $0.7 million 2.97% Note, due 2013 Floating rate notes Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 2.75% to 3.75%, due 2015 $9.2 million, Prime Rate less 2.00%, due 2017 $26.9 million, LIBOR plus 2.86% Note, due 2013 December 31, 2012 2011 $ $ $ 1,087 13,850 2,943 9,142 1,444 10,609 18,865 23,135 8,925 15 69,000 7,854 23,739 190,608 $ 1,318 14,110 2,978 9,326 1,471 10,763 19,524 23,597 9,221 23 11,000 — 24,559 127,890 (1) As of December 31, 2011, promissory note had a balance of $1.4 million and an interest rate of 5.0%, due in 2012. See below for further discussion of Starwood Note. (2) The 6.00% interest rate is fixed through March 30, 2016. On March 31, 2016 the interest rate will reset to the rate of interest for a five-year balloon note with a thirty-year amortization as published by the Federal Home Loan Bank. Our mortgage debt was collateralized by 27 operating properties as of December 31, 2012 with a combined net book value of $161.8 million and 26 operating properties as of December 31, 2011 with a combined net book value of $143.2 million. Our loans contain restrictions that would require the payment of prepayment penalties for the acceleration of outstanding debt and are secured by deeds of trust on certain of our properties and the assignment of certain rents and leases associated with those properties. On August 8, 2012, we assumed a $9.2 million variable rate note as part of our acquisition of Paradise Plaza (See Note 4). The variable rate is based on the prime rate less 2.00% and matures on December 27, 2017. We consider the variable rate to be below-market and have imputed an interest rate of 4.13%, which we consider to be an appropriate market rate. As a result, we recorded a discount on the note of $1.3 million, which will amortize into interest expense over the life of the loan. See Note 2 above for a discussion of the interest rate swap included with this note. On December 22, 2011, we, through our subsidiary, Whitestone Pinnacle of Scottsdale, L.L.C. a Delaware limited liability company ("Whitestone Pinnacle"), assumed a promissory note (the "Pinnacle Note") in the amount of $14.1 million payable to U.S. Bank National Association with an applicable interest rate of 5.965% per annum. Monthly payments of $91,073 began on January 1, 2012 and continue thereafter on the first day of each calendar month until maturity on June 1, 2013. F- 19 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 The Pinnacle Note is a non-recourse loan secured by Whitestone Pinnacle's Pinnacle of Scottsdale property, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, and a limited guarantee by Whitestone. In conjunction with the Pinnacle Note, a deed of trust was executed by Whitestone Pinnacle that contains customary terms and conditions, including representations, warranties and covenants by Whitestone Pinnacle that include, without limitation, assignment of rents, warranty of title, insurance requirements and maintenance, use and management of the properties. The Pinnacle Note contains events of default that include, among other things, non-payment and default under the deed of trust. Upon occurrence of an event of default, the lender is entitled to accelerate all obligations of Whitestone Pinnacle. The lender will also be entitled to receive the entire unpaid balance and unpaid interest at a default rate. On December 28, 2011, we, operating through our subsidiary, Whitestone Shops at Starwood-Phase III LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Whitestone Starwood"), assumed a promissory note (the "Starwood Note") in the amount of $1.4 million payable to Sovereign Bank, with an applicable interest rate of 5.0% per annum. Monthly payments of $5,780 became due on January 1, 2012 and continued thereafter on the first day of each calendar month until December 31, 2012. On December 28, 2012, we extended the term of the Starwood Note through December 31, 2013. Under the terms of the extension, we made a principal payment in the amount of $300,000 plus approximately $52,000 in prepaid interest, an effective interest rate of 4.71% per annum. The interest was recorded as an asset and will be amortized into expense over the life of the loan. The Starwood Note is a non-recourse loan secured by Whitestone Starwood's future development of the land parcel adjacent to our Shops at Starwood property, located in Frisco, Texas, and a limited guarantee by Whitestone. In conjunction with the Starwood Note, a deed of trust was executed by Whitestone Starwood which contains customary terms and conditions, including representations, warranties and covenants by Whitestone Starwood that include, without limitation, assignment of rents, warranty of title, insurance requirements and maintenance, use and management of the properties. The Starwood Note contains events of default that include, among other things, non-payment and default under the deed of trust. Upon occurrence of an event of default, the lender is entitled to accelerate all obligations of Whitestone Starwood. The lender will also be entitled to receive the entire unpaid balance and unpaid interest at a default rate. On February 27, 2012, we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into a three-year $125 million unsecured revolving credit facility (the "2012 Facility"), which was to be used for general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and redevelopment of existing properties in our portfolio. Borrowings under the 2012 Facility accrued interest (at our Operating Partnership's option) at a Base Rate or a Eurodollar Loan Rate plus an applicable margin based upon our then existing leverage. Base Rent means the higher of: (a) the agent's prime commercial rate, (b) the sum of (i) average rate quoted the agent by two or more federal funds brokers selected by the agent for sale to the agent at face value of federal funds in the secondary market in an amount equal or comparable to the principal amount for which such rate is being determined, plus (ii) 1/2 of 1%, and (c) the LIBOR rate for such day plus 1.00%. Eurodollar Loan Rate means LIBOR divided by the Eurodollar Reserve Percentage. The Eurodollar Reserve Percentage means the maximum reserve percentage at which reserves are imposed by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. As of December 31, 2012, $69.0 million was drawn on the 2012 Facility, and our remaining borrowing capacity was $56.0 million. On February 4, 2013, we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into an unsecured credit facility that amends and restates the 2012 Facility. See Note 19. Certain other of our loans are subject to customary covenants. As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with all loan covenants. F- 20 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 Annual maturities of notes payable as of December 31, 2012 are due during the following years: Year 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Thereafter Total Amount Due (in thousands) 81,396 19,172 10,317 73 76,936 2,714 190,608 $ $ Contractual Obligations As of December 31, 2012, we had the following contractual obligations: Contractual Obligations Long-Term Debt - Principal Long-Term Debt - Fixed Interest Long-Term Debt - Variable Interest (1) Unsecured revolving credit facility - Unused commitment fee (2) Operating Lease Obligations Total Payment due by period (in thousands) Less than 1 year (2013) 1 - 3 years (2014 - 2015) 3 - 5 years (2016 - 2017) More than 5 years (after 2017) $ $ 81,396 4,515 2,320 371 28 88,630 $ $ 29,489 2,034 3,421 742 5 35,691 $ $ 77,009 535 2,053 742 — 80,339 $ $ 2,714 512 — — — 3,226 Total 190,608 7,596 7,794 1,855 33 207,886 $ $ (1) As of December 31, 2012, we had two loans totaling $92.7 million which bore interest at a floating rate. The variable interest rate payments are based on LIBOR plus 1.75% to LIBOR plus 2.50%, which reflects our new interest rates under our 2013 Facility. The information in the table above reflects our projected interest rate obligations for the floating rate payments based on one-month LIBOR as of December 31, 2012, of 0.21%. (2) The unused commitment fees on our unsecured revolving credit facility, payable quarterly, are based on the average daily unused amount of our unsecured revolving credit facility. The fees, which reflect our new fees under our 2013 Facility, are 0.25% for facility usage greater than 50% or 0.35% for facility usage less than 50%. The information in the table above reflects our projected obligations for our unsecured revolving credit facility based on our December 31, 2012 balance of $69.0 million. 9. EARNINGS PER SHARE Basic earnings per share for our common shareholders is calculated by dividing income from continuing operations excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares and the net income attributable to non-controlling interests by our weighted-average common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing the net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares and the net income attributable to non-controlling interests by the weighted-average number of common shares including any dilutive unvested restricted shares. F- 21 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 Certain of our performance-based restricted common shares are considered participating securities, which require the use of the two-class method for the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, 848,284, 1,705,198 and 1,814,569 OP units, respectively, were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because their effect would be anti-dilutive. For the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, distributions of $194,000, $213,000 and $251,000, respectively, were made to the holders of certain restricted common shares, $172,000, $196,000 and $224,000 of which were charged against earnings, respectively. See Note 13 for information related to restricted common shares under the 2008 Plan. (in thousands, except per share data) Numerator: Net income Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Distributions paid on unvested restricted shares Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares Denominator: Weighted average number of common shares - basic Effect of dilutive securities: Unvested restricted shares Weighted average number of common shares - dilutive Earnings Per Share: Basic: Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares Diluted: Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares 10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES Year Ended December 31, 2011 2010 2012 $ 53 (3) (22) $ 1,333 (210) (17) 1,575 (470) (27) 28 $ 1,106 $ 1,078 13,496 9,028 4,012 117 13,613 14 9,042 29 4,041 0.00 $ 0.12 $ 0.27 0.00 $ 0.12 $ 0.27 $ $ $ $ Federal income taxes are not provided because we intend to and believe we qualify as a REIT under the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and because we have distributed and intend to continue to distribute all of our taxable income to our shareholders. Our shareholders include their proportionate taxable income in their individual tax returns. As a REIT, we must distribute at least 90% of our real estate investment trust taxable income to our shareholders and meet certain income sources and investment restriction requirements. In addition, REITs are subject to a number of organizational and operational requirements. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will be subject to federal income tax (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) on our taxable income at regular corporate tax rates. F- 22 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 During 2010, we discovered that we may have inadvertently violated the “5% asset test,” as set forth in Section 856(c) (4)(B)(iii)(I) of the Code, for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 as a result of utilizing a certain cash management arrangement with a commercial bank. If our investment in a commercial paper investment sweep account through such cash management agreement is not treated as cash, and is instead treated as a security of a single issuer for purposes of the “5% asset test,” then we failed the “5% asset test” for the first quarter of our 2009 taxable year. We believe, however, that if we failed the “5% asset test,” our failure would be considered due to reasonable cause and not willful neglect and, therefore, we would not be disqualified as a REIT for our 2009 taxable year. We would be, however, subject to certain reporting requirements and a tax equal to the greater of $50,000 or 35% of the net income from the commercial paper investment account during the period in which we failed to satisfy the “5% asset test.” The amount of such tax was $50,000, and we paid such tax on April 27, 2010. If the IRS were to assert that we failed the “5% asset test” for the first quarter of our 2009 taxable year and that such failure was not due to reasonable cause, and the courts were to sustain that position, our status as a REIT would terminate as of December 31, 2008. We would not be eligible to again elect REIT status until our 2014 taxable year. Consequently, we would be subject to federal income tax on our taxable income at regular corporate rates without the benefit of the dividends-paid deduction, and our cash available for distributions to shareholders would be reduced. Taxable income differs from net income for financial reporting purposes principally due to differences in the timing of recognition of interest, real estate taxes, depreciation and rental revenue. For federal income tax purposes, the cash distributions to shareholders are characterized as follows for the years ended December 31: Ordinary income (unaudited) Return of capital (unaudited) Capital gain distributions (unaudited) Unrecaptured section 1250 gain (unaudited) Total 11. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 2012 2011 2010 34.1 % 65.2 % 0.7 % — % 100.0% 24.4 % 66.1 % 6.5 % 3.0 % 100.0% 37.8 % 62.2 % — % — % 100.0% Executive Relocation. On July 9, 2010, upon the unanimous recommendation of our Compensation Committee, we entered into an arrangement with Mr. Mastandrea with respect to the disposition of his residence in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Mastandrea listed the residence in the second half of 2007 and has had to pay for security, taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses related to the residence. Under the relocation arrangement as amended on August 9, 2012, we will pay Mr. Mastandrea the shortfall, if any, in the amount realized from the sale of the Cleveland residence, below $2,450,000, plus tax on the amount of such payment at the maximum federal income tax rate. The amount of the shortfall will be paid in a combination of cash and common shares at the market value of the shares, as determined upon agreement between Mr. Mastandrea and the Compensation Committee. In addition, the arrangement requires us to continue paying the previously agreed upon cost of housing expenses for the Mastandrea family in Houston, Texas for a period of one year following the date of sale of the residence. We have previously agreed to reimburse Mr. Mastandrea for out-of-pocket moving costs including packing, temporary storage, transportation and moving supplies. On December 21, 2012, Mr. Mastandrea sold the residence to a third party for a price of $1,125,000. Pursuant to the relocation arrangement, we paid cash of $1,325,000, representing the shortfall of the amount realized from the sale of the property, and $852,000, which represented moving expenses and closing costs incurred by Mr. Mastandrea and federal taxes. No common shares were issued. The total expense incurred by us of $2,177,000 is shown separately in our consolidated financial statements. In addition, we issued a note receivable for $975,000 to the buyer. The note bears interest at a rate of 4.5% and matures on December 31, 2013. As a result of this transaction, we also recorded a related party receivable of $652,000, which represents the federal income tax withholding not deducted from our payment to Mr. Mastandrea. Subsequent to December 31, 2012, we received the $652,000 and paid it to the federal government on behalf of Mr. Mastandrea. F- 23 Table of Contents 12. EQUITY WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 Under our declaration of trust, as amended, we have authority to issue up to 400 million common shares of beneficial interest, $0.001 par value per share, and up to 50 million preferred shares of beneficial interest, $0.001 par value per share. Reclassification of common shares and transfer of listing On June 27, 2012, we filed with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland amendments to our declaration of trust that (i) reclassified each issued and unissued Class A common share of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share (the "Class A common shares") into one Class B common share of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share (the "Class B common shares") and (ii) changed the designation of all of the Class B common shares to "common shares." The amendment setting forth the reclassification of the Class A common shares into Class B common shares was approved by our shareholders at the 2012 annual meeting of shareholders held on May 22, 2012. The amendment approving the redesignation of the Class B common shares to common shares was approved by our board of trustees and did not require shareholder approval. On June 29, 2012, we transferred the listing of our common shares to the New York Stock Exchange under our existing ticker symbol "WSR." As a result of the transfer, we voluntarily delisted our common shares from the NYSE MKT LLC effective June 28, 2012. Equity Offerings On August 28, 2012, we completed the sale of 4,830,000 common shares, $0.001 par value per share, including 630,000 common shares pursuant to the exercise of the underwriters' over-allotment option, at a price to the public of $12.80 per share. Total net proceeds from the offering, including over-allotment shares, and after deducting the underwriting discount and offering expenses, were approximately $58.7 million, which we used for general corporate purposes, including property acquisitions, debt repayment, capital expenditures, the expansion, redevelopment and/or re-tenanting of properties in our portfolio, working capital and other general purposes. On May 10, 2011, we completed a public offering of 5,310,000 common shares, including 310,000 common shares pursuant to the exercise of the underwriters' over-allotment option at a public offering price of $12.00 per share. Net proceeds, after payment of underwriting commissions and transaction costs, were approximately $59.7 million. We used the net proceeds to acquire properties in our target markets and to redevelop and re-tenant our existing properties, as well as for general corporate purposes. Exchange Offers On September 2, 2011, we commenced an offer to exchange common shares on a one-for-one basis for up to 453,642 outstanding OP units (the “First Exchange Offer”). The First Exchange Offer expired on October 3, 2011, and 453,642 OP units were accepted for exchange. On December 9, 2011, we commenced a second offer to exchange common shares on a one-for-one basis for up to 453,642 outstanding OP units (the “Second Exchange Offer”). The Second Exchange Offer expired on January 11, 2012, and 453,580 OP units were accepted for exchange. On May 10, 2012, we commenced a third offer to exchange Class B common shares on a one-for-one basis for (i) up to 867,789 outstanding Class A common shares; and (ii) up to 453,642 outstanding OP units (the "Third Exchange Offer"). The Third Exchange Offer expired on June 8, 2012, and 426,986 Class A common shares and 121,156 OP units were accepted for change. Operating Partnership Units Substantially all of our business is conducted through the Operating Partnership. We are the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership. As of December 31, 2012, we owned a 96.1% interest in the Operating Partnership. F- 24 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 Limited partners in the Operating Partnership holding OP units have the right to redeem their OP units for cash or, at our option, common shares at a ratio of one OP unit for one common share. Distributions to OP unit holders are paid at the same rate per unit as distributions per share to Whitestone common shares. As of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, there were 17,507,771 and 12,677,969 OP units outstanding, respectively. We owned 16,822,285 and 11,317,042 OP units as of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The balance of the OP units is owned by third parties, including certain trustees. Our weighted-average share ownership in the Operating Partnership was approximately 94.1%, 84.2% and 70.2% for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. On October 9, 2012, we filed with the SEC a prospectus supplement covering the issuance of up to 786,191 of our common shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.001 per share, to certain holders of OP units. The OP units may be issued to the extent that OP unit holders tender their OP units for redemption in accordance with the terms of the limited partnership agreement of the Operating Partnership and we elect, in our sole discretion, to issue common shares to the tendering OP unit holders. The prospectus supplement supplements a base prospectus, dated July 25, 2012, relating to our effective shelf registration statement of Form S-3 (File No. 333-182667). As of December 31, 2012, 100,705 OP units had been redeemed for an equal number of common shares. Distributions The following table reflects the total distributions we have paid (including the total amount paid and the amount paid per share) in each indicated quarter (in thousands, except per share data): Common Shares Noncontrolling OP Unit Holders Total Quarter Paid Distribution Per Common Share Total Amount Paid Distribution Per OP Unit Total Amount Paid Total Amount Paid 2012 Fourth Quarter Third Quarter Second Quarter First Quarter Total 2011 Fourth Quarter Third Quarter Second Quarter First Quarter Total $ $ $ $ 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 $ $ $ $ 4,781 3,859 3,362 3,322 15,324 3,193 3,115 2,121 1,616 10,045 $ $ $ $ 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 0.2850 1.1400 $ $ $ $ 221 224 258 301 1,004 430 514 515 515 1,974 $ $ $ $ 5,002 4,083 3,620 3,623 16,328 3,623 3,629 2,636 2,131 12,019 13. INCENTIVE SHARE PLAN On July 29, 2008, our shareholders approved the 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan (the “Plan”). On December 22, 2010, our board of trustees amended the Plan to allow for the issuance of common shares pursuant to the Plan. The Plan, as amended, provides that awards may be made with respect to common shares of Whitestone or OP units. The maximum aggregate number of common shares that may be issued under the Plan is increased upon each issuance of common shares by Whitestone so that at any time the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan shall equal 12.5% of the aggregate number of common shares of Whitestone and OP units issued and outstanding (other than shares and/or units issued to or held by Whitestone). F- 25 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 The Compensation Committee of our board of trustees administers the Plan, except with respect to awards to non- employee trustees, for which the Plan is administered by our board of trustees. The Compensation Committee is authorized to grant share options, including both incentive share options and non-qualified share options, as well as share appreciation rights, either with or without a related option. The Compensation Committee is also authorized to grant restricted common shares, restricted common share units, performance awards and other share-based awards. On January 6, 2009, the Compensation Committee, pursuant to the Plan, granted to certain of our officers restricted common shares and restricted common share units subject to certain restrictions. The restricted common shares and restricted common share units will vest upon achieving certain performance goals (as specified in the award agreement). The grantee is the record owner of the restricted common shares and has all rights of a shareholder with respect to the restricted common shares, including the right to vote the restricted common shares and to receive distributions with respect to the restricted common shares. The grantee has no rights of a shareholder with respect to the restricted common share units, including no right to vote the restricted common share units and no right to receive current distributions with respect to the restricted common share units until the restricted common share units are fully vested and convertible to common shares of Whitestone. A summary of the share-based incentive plan activity as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 is as follows: Non-vested at January 1, 2012 Granted Vested Forfeited Non-vested at December 31, 2012 Available for grant at December 31, 2012 Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value (1) 12.48 13.03 13.77 12.61 12.53 Shares 504,023 99,700 (16,208) (52,595) 534,920 1,888,534 $ $ (1) The fair value of the shares granted were determined based on observable market transactions occurring near the date of the grants. A summary of our nonvested and vested shares activity for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 is presented below: Shares Granted Shares Vested Year Ended Non-Vested Shares Issued Weighted- Average Grant- Date Fair Value Vested Shares Total Vest-Date Fair Value (in thousands) 2012 2011 2010 99,700 $ — 31,858 13.03 — 14.09 (16,208) $ (5,169) (55,699) 223 80 695 Total compensation recognized in earnings for share-based payments for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 was $0.7 million, $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively. Taking into account the acquisitions occurring during the three months ended September 30, 2012 (see Note 4), we expect additional performance-based shares to vest due to the achievement of certain Company-wide performance goals. As a result, as of December 31, 2012, there was approximately $1.2 million in unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding nonvested performance-based and time-based shares that are expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 12 months. The fair value of the shares granted during the year ended December 31, 2012 was determined using quoted prices available on the date of the grant and the fair value of the shares granted during the year ended December 31, 2010 was determined based on observable market transactions occurring near the date of the grants. F- 26 14. GRANTS TO TRUSTEES On May 22, 2012, each of our four independent trustees was granted 1,500 common shares, which vested immediately. The 6,000 common shares granted to our four independent trustees had a grant date fair value of $13.03 per share. On June 25, 2012, two of our independent trustees elected to receive a total of 915 common shares with a grant date fair value of $13.39 in lieu of cash for board fees. The fair value of the shares granted during the year ended December 31, 2012 was determined using quoted prices available on the date of grant. 15. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES We are a participant in various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of our business. These matters are generally covered by insurance. While the resolution of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, we believe that the final outcome of these matters will not have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. Executive Relocation. On July 9, 2010, upon the unanimous recommendation of our Compensation Committee, we entered into an arrangement with Mr. Mastandrea with respect to the disposition of his residence in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Mastandrea listed the residence in the second half of 2007 and has had to pay for security, taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses related to the residence. Under the relocation arrangement as amended on August 9, 2012, we will pay Mr. Mastandrea the shortfall, if any, in the amount realized from the sale of the Cleveland residence, below $2,450,000, plus tax on the amount of such payment at the maximum federal income tax rate. The amount of the shortfall will be paid in a combination of cash and common shares at the market value of the shares, as determined upon agreement between Mr. Mastandrea and the Compensation Committee. In addition, the arrangement requires us to continue paying the previously agreed upon cost of housing expenses for the Mastandrea family in Houston, Texas for a period of one year following the date of sale of the residence. We have previously agreed to reimburse Mr. Mastandrea for out-of-pocket moving costs including packing, temporary storage, transportation and moving supplies. On December 21, 2012, Mr. Mastandrea sold the residence to a third party for a price of $1,125,000. Pursuant to the relocation arrangement, we paid cash of $1,325,000, representing the shortfall of the amount realized from the sale of the property, and $852,000, which represented moving expenses and closing costs incurred by Mr. Mastandrea and federal taxes. No common shares were issued. The total expense incurred by us of $2,177,000 is shown separately in our consolidated financial statements. In addition, we issued a note receivable for $975,000 to the buyer. The note bears interest at a rate of 4.5% and matures on December 31, 2013. As a result of this transaction, we also recorded a related party receivable of $652,000, which represents the federal income tax withholding not deducted from our payment to Mr. Mastandrea. Subsequent to December 31, 2012, we received the $652,000 and paid it to the federal government on behalf of Mr. Mastandrea. 16. INVOLUNTARY CONVERSION The involuntary conversion gain of $0.6 million recognized during the year ended December 31, 2010 represents the completion of the repairs to the 31 properties impacted by Hurricane Ike at costs that were lower than we estimated as of December 31, 2009. The estimated costs were sensitive to the scope requirements of our lenders and labor and material costs of our vendors, and the final costs incurred were more favorable than we anticipated. 17. SEGMENT INFORMATION Our management historically has not differentiated by property types and therefore does not present segment information. F- 27 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 18. SELECT QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (unaudited) The following is a summary of our unaudited quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands, except per share data): First Fourth Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Second Third 2012 Revenues Net income (loss) attributable to Whitestone REIT Earnings per share: $ 10,426 793 $ 10,987 431 $ 11,618 163 $ 13,523 (1,337) Basic - Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (1) Diluted - Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (1) $ 0.07 $ 0.04 $ 0.01 $ (0.08) 0.07 0.04 0.01 (0.08) 2011 Revenues Net income (loss) attributable to Whitestone REIT Earnings per share: $ $ 8,086 185 $ 8,071 (196) 8,790 578 $ 9,968 556 Basic - Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (1) Diluted - Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (1) $ 0.03 $ (0.02) $ 0.05 $ 0.05 0.03 (0.02) 0.05 0.05 (1) The sum of individual quarterly basic and diluted earnings per share amounts may not agree with the year-to-date basic and diluted earning per share amounts as the result of each period's computation being based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during that period. 19. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility On February 4, 2013, we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into an unsecured credit facility (the “2013 Facility”) with the lenders party thereto, with BMO Capital Markets and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as co-lead arrangers and joint book runners, Bank of Montreal, as administrative agent (the "Agent"), Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as syndication agent, and U.S. Bank National Association, as documentation agent. We plan to use the 2013 Facility for acquisitions, redevelopment of value-add properties in our portfolio, and general corporate purposes. The 2013 Facility amends and restates our 2012 Facility. In addition to a $125 million unsecured borrowing capacity under the revolving loan, the 2013 Facility also includes a $50 million term loan and permits the Operating Partnership to increase the borrowing capacity under the 2013 Facility to a total of $225 million, upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. The 2013 Facility will mature on February 3, 2017, and provides that the Operating Partnership may extend the maturity date for one year subject to certain conditions, including the payment of an extension fee. Borrowings under the 2013 Facility accrue interest (at the Operating Partnership's option) at a Base Rate or an Adjusted LIBOR plus an applicable margin based upon our then existing leverage. Base Rate means the higher of: (a) the Agent's prime commercial rate, (b) the sum of (i) average rate quoted the Agent by two or more federal funds brokers selected by the Agent for sale to the Agent at face value of federal funds in the secondary market in an amount equal or comparable to the principal amount for which such rate is being determined, plus (ii) 1/2 of 1%, and (c) the LIBOR rate for such day plus 1.00%. Adjusted LIBOR means LIBOR divided by one minus the Eurodollar Reserve Percentage. The Eurodollar Reserve Percentage means the maximum reserve percentage at which reserves are imposed by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System on eurocurrency liabilities. F- 28 Table of Contents WHITESTONE REIT AND SUBSIDIARIES Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 Whitestone will serve as the guarantor for funds borrowed by the Operating Partnership under the 2013 Facility. The 2013 Facility contains customary terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as information reporting requirements, maximum secured indebtedness to total asset value, minimum EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization or extraordinary items) to fixed charges, and maintenance of a minimum net worth. The 2013 Facility also contains customary events of default with customary notice and cure, including, without limitation, nonpayment, breach of covenant, misrepresentation of representations and warranties in a material respect, cross-default to other major indebtedness, change of control, bankruptcy and loss of REIT tax status. Interest Rate Swap On March 8, 2013. we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into an interest rate swap with U.S. Bank National Association that fixes the LIBOR portion of our $50 million term loan under our 2013 Facility at 0.84%. The swap starts on January 7, 2014 and will mature on February 3, 2017. We have designated the interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge with the effective portion of the changes in fair value to be recorded in comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value, if any, will be recognized directly in earnings. F- 29 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts December 31, 2012 Description Allowance for doubtful accounts: Year ended December 31, 2012 Year ended December 31, 2011 Year ended December 31, 2010 (in thousands) Balance at Beginning of Year Charged to Costs and Expense Deductions from Reserves Balance at End of Year $ $ 1,366 1,304 894 $ 1,004 615 536 (85) $ (553) (126) 2,285 1,366 1,304 F- 30 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation December 31, 2012 Initial Cost (in thousands) Building and Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition (in thousands) Carrying Improvements Gross Amount at which Carried at (1) (2) End of Period (in thousands) Building and Property Name Land Improvements (net) Costs Land Improvements Total Retail Communities: Ahwatukee Plaza $ 5,126 $ 4,086 $ 25 $ — $ 5,126 $ 4,111 $ Bellnot Square Bissonnet Beltway Centre South The Citadel Desert Canyon Gilbert Tuscany Village Holly Knight Kempwood Plaza Lion Square The Marketplace at Central Paradise Plaza Pinnacle of Scottsdale Providence Shaver Shops at Starwood Shops at Pecos Ranch South Richey Spoerlein Commons SugarPark Plaza Sunridge Terravita Marketplace Torrey Square Town Park Webster Pointe Westchase Windsor Park $ $ Office/Flex Communities: Brookhill Corporate Park Northwest Corporate Park West Corporate Park Woodland Dairy Ashford Holly Hall Interstate 10 Main Park Plaza Park West Belt Plaza Westgate 1,154 415 481 472 1,976 1,767 320 733 1,546 1,305 6,155 6,648 918 184 4,093 3,781 778 2,340 1,781 276 7,171 1,981 850 720 423 2,621 4,638 1,947 1,596 1,777 1,704 3,233 1,293 1,798 4,289 5,324 10,221 22,466 3,675 633 11,487 15,123 2,584 7,296 7,125 1,186 9,392 2,971 2,911 1,150 1,751 10,482 428 450 721 1,697 252 460 158 1,128 2,278 654 (100) 375 684 12 — — 1,540 262 834 292 196 1,099 252 270 2,728 7,056 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 1,154 415 481 472 1,976 1,767 320 733 1,546 1,305 6,155 6,648 918 184 4,093 3,781 778 2,340 1,781 276 7,171 1,981 850 720 423 2,621 5,066 2,397 2,317 3,474 1,956 3,693 1,451 2,926 6,567 5,978 10,121 22,841 4,359 645 11,487 15,123 4,124 7,558 7,959 1,478 9,588 4,070 3,163 1,420 4,479 9,237 6,220 2,812 2,798 3,946 3,932 5,460 1,771 3,659 8,113 7,283 16,276 29,489 5,277 829 15,580 18,904 4,902 9,898 9,740 1,754 16,759 6,051 4,013 2,140 4,902 17,538 20,159 56,015 $ 142,138 $ 23,751 $ — $ 56,015 $ 165,889 $ 221,904 186 $ 788 $ 311 $ — $ 186 $ 1,099 $ 1,534 2,555 652 226 608 208 1,328 902 568 672 6,306 10,267 5,330 1,211 2,516 3,700 2,721 3,294 2,165 2,776 1,111 1,030 684 130 388 565 547 1,128 785 446 — — — — — — — — — — 1,534 2,555 652 226 608 208 1,328 902 568 672 7,417 11,297 6,014 1,341 2,904 4,265 3,268 4,422 2,950 3,222 1,285 8,951 13,852 6,666 1,567 3,512 4,473 4,596 5,324 3,518 3,894 $ 9,439 $ 41,074 $ 7,125 $ — $ 9,439 $ 48,199 $ 57,638 F- 31 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation December 31, 2012 Initial Cost (in thousands) to Acquisition (in thousands) Costs Capitalized Subsequent Gross Amount at which Carried at (1) (2) End of Period (in thousands) Property Name Land Improvements (net) Costs Land Improvements Total Building and Improvements Carrying Building and Office Communities: 9101 LBJ Freeway $ 1,597 $ 6,078 $ 1,466 $ — $ 1,597 $ 7,544 $ 368 1,086 509 1,621 1,107 636 6,924 72,378 3,610 5,573 3,170 8,887 1,568 18,758 5,590 2,153 $ $ 47,670 261,758 $ $ 2,807 9,959 9,141 3,538 9,973 2,077 20,379 6,697 2,789 54,594 334,136 6,417 15,532 — 517 — — — — 517 517 $ $ — — — 8,495 37,899 46,394 — $ 17,678 167 $ 1,000 — 156 323 840 $ $ 4,000 1,818 6,818 96,874 $ $ $ $ 50,665 213 — 159 372 312,795 $ $ $ $ 68,343 1,213 4,000 1,977 7,190 409,669 Featherwood Pima Norte Royal Crest Uptown Tower Woodlake Plaza Zeta Building Total Operating Portfolio Shops at Pinnacle Peak Fountain Square Village Square at Dana Park Total - Development Portfolio Pinnacle Phase II Village Square at Dana Park Shops at Starwood Phase III Total - Property Held for Development Grand Totals $ $ $ $ $ $ 368 1,086 509 1,621 1,107 636 6,924 72,378 3,610 5,573 8,495 17,678 1,000 4,000 1,818 6,818 96,874 $ $ $ $ $ $ 2,591 7,162 1,355 15,551 4,426 1,819 38,982 222,194 $ $ 2,734 9,828 37,870 50,432 $ — $ — — — $ 579 1,208 213 3,207 1,164 334 8,171 39,047 73 131 29 233 46 — 3 49 272,626 $ 39,329 $ $ $ $ $ $ F- 32 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation December 31, 2012 Property Name Encumbrances (in thousands) Construction Acquired Life Accumulated Depreciation Date of Date Depreciation Retail Communities: Ahwatukee Bellnot Square Bissonnet Beltway Centre South The Citadel Desert Canyon Gilbert Tuscany Village Holly Knight Kempwood Plaza Lion Square The Marketplace at Central Paradise Plaza Pinnacle of Scottsdale Providence Shaver Shops at Starwood Shops at Pecos Ranch South Richey Spoerlein Commons SugarPark Plaza Sunridge Terravita Marketplace Torrey Square Town Park Webster Pointe Westchase Windsor Park Office/Flex Communities: Brookhill Corporate Park Northwest Corporate Park West Corporate Park Woodland Dairy Ashford Holly Hall Interstate 10 Main Park Plaza Park West Belt Plaza Westgate 8/16/2011 1/1/2002 1/1/1999 1/1/2000 9/28/2010 4/13/2011 6/28/2011 8/1/2000 2/2/1999 1/1/2000 11/1/2010 8/8/2012 12/22/2011 3/30/2001 12/17/1999 12/28/2011 12/28/2012 8/25/1999 1/16/2009 9/8/2004 1/1/2002 8/8/2011 1/1/2000 1/1/1999 1/1/2000 1/1/2002 12/16/2003 1/1/2002 1/1/2002 1/1/2002 1/1/1999 1/1/2002 1/1/1999 1/1/1999 1/1/2000 1/1/1999 1/1/2002 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 11/1/2000 $ $ $ (3) (3) (3) (11) (9) (3) (3) (3) (3) (3) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (7) (7) (7) (7) (7) (7) 141 1,489 1,283 921 115 92 177 770 1,435 2,141 304 109 586 1,489 299 295 — 1,069 814 1,651 511 345 1,730 1,502 624 1,005 2,989 23,886 318 2,394 3,572 2,500 559 828 2,210 1,343 1,759 1,397 1,046 $ 17,926 F- 33 Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation December 31, 2012 Property Name Encumbrances (in thousands) Construction Acquired Life Accumulated Depreciation Date of Date Depreciation Office Communities: 9101 LBJ Freeway Featherwood Pima Norte Royal Crest Uptown Tower Woodlake Plaza Zeta Building Total Operating Portfolio Shops at Pinnacle Peak Fountain Square Village Square at Dana Park Total - Development Portfolio Pinnacle Phase II Village Square at Dana Park Shops at Starwood Phase III Total - Property Held For Development Grand Total (8) (10) (8) (8) (5) (12) $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ 1,939 1,280 997 598 4,466 1,573 874 11,727 53,539 41 70 270 381 — — — — 53,920 8/10/2005 1/1/2000 10/4/2007 1/1/2000 11/22/2005 3/14/2005 1/1/2000 5/29/2012 9/21/2012 9/21/2012 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 5-39 years 12/28/2011 Land - Not Depreciated 9/21/2012 Land - Not Depreciated 12/28/2011 Land - Not Depreciated (1) Reconciliations of total real estate carrying value for the three years ended December 31, follows: Balance at beginning of period Additions during the period: Acquisitions Improvements Deductions - cost of real estate sold or retired Balance at close of period 2012 $ 292,360 ( in thousands) 2011 $ 204,954 2010 $ 192,832 107,392 12,798 120,190 (2,881) $ 409,669 82,030 7,568 89,598 (2,192) $ 292,360 8,878 4,142 13,020 (898) $ 204,954 (2) The aggregate cost of real estate (in thousands) for federal income tax purposes is $389,370. (3) These properties secure a $21.4 million and a $9.9 million mortgage notes. (4) This property secures a $10.0 million mortgage note. (5) These properties secure a $1.5 million mortgage note. (6) This property secures an $11.2 million mortgage note. (7) These properties secure a $26.9 million mortgage note. (8) These properties secure a $24.5 million mortgage note. (9) This property secures a $14.1 million mortgage note. (10) This property secures a $3.0 million mortgage note. (11) This property secures a $9.2 million mortgage note. (12) This property secures a $1.1 million mortgage note. F- 34 Table of Contents Exhibit No. Description Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Index to Exhibits 3.1.1 3.1.2 3.1.3 3.1.4 3.1.5 3.1.6 3.1.7 3.2 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 10.6 10.7 Articles of Amendment and Restatement of Whitestone REIT (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on July 31, 2008) Articles Supplementary (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(i).1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed December 6, 2006) Articles of Amendment (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on August 24, 2010) Articles of Amendment (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on August 24, 2010) Articles Supplementary (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on August 24, 2010) Articles of Amendment (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 27, 2012) Articles of Amendment (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1.2 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 27, 2012) Amended and Restated Bylaws of Whitestone REIT (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 9, 2008) Agreement of Limited Partnership of Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, L.P. (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s General Form for Registration of Securities on Form 10, filed on April 30, 2003) Certificate of Formation of Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership II GP, LLC (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s General Form for Registration of Securities on Form 10, filed on April 30, 2003) Limited Liability Company Agreement of Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership II GP, LLC (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s General Form for Registration of Securities on Form 10, filed on April 30, 2003) Agreement of Limited Partnership of Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership II, L.P. (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Registrant’s General Form for Registration of Securities on Form 10, filed on April 30, 2003) Amendment to the Agreement of Limited Partnership of Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, L.P. (previously filed in and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-11, Commission File No. 333-111674, filed on December 31, 2003) Promissory Note between HCP REIT Operating Company IV LLC and MidFirst Bank, dated March 1, 2007 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10- K for the year ended December 31, 2006, filed on March 30, 2007) Term Loan Agreement among Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, L.P., Whitestone Pima Norte LLC, Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership III LP, Hartman REIT Operating Partnership III LP LTD, Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership III GP LLC and KeyBank National Association, dated January 25, 2008 (previously filed as and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, filed on March 31, 2008) Table of Contents Exhibit No. Description Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Index to Exhibits 10.8+ 10.9 10.10 10.11 10.12 10.13 10.14 10.15 10.16 Whitestone REIT 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed July 31, 2008) Promissory Note among Whitestone Corporate Park West, LLC and MidFirst Bank dated August 5, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed August 8, 2008) Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated October 1, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 7, 2008) Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated October 1, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 7, 2008) Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated October 1, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 7, 2008) Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated October 1, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 7, 2008) Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated October 1, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.5 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 7, 2008) Note among Whitestone Offices LLC and Nationwide Life Insurance Company dated October 1, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.6 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 7, 2008) Floating Rate Promissory Note among Whitestone Industrial-Office LLC and Jackson National Life Insurance Company dated October 3, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed October 9, 2008) 10.17+ Form of Restricted Common Share Award Agreement (Performance Vested) (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed January 7, 2009) 10.18+ Form of Restricted Common Share Award Agreement (Time Vested) (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed January 7, 2009) 10.19+ Form of Restricted Unit Award Agreement (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed January 7, 2009) 10.20 10.21 10.22 Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated February 3, 2009 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed February 10, 2009) Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated February 3, 2009 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed February 10, 2009) Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated February 3, 2009 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed February 10, 2009) Table of Contents Exhibit No. Description Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Index to Exhibits 10.23 10.24 10.25+ 10.26+ 10.27+ 10.28+ 10.29 10.30 10.31 10.32 10.33 10.34 Promissory Note among Whitestone Centers LLC and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada dated February 3, 2009 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed February 10, 2009) Agreement of Purchase and Sale between Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, L.P. and Bank One, Chicago, NA, as trustee for Midwest Development Venture IV dated December 18, 2008 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, filed on May 15, 2009) Trustee Restricted Common Share Grant Agreement (Time Vested) between Whitestone REIT and Daryl J. Carter (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, filed on May 15, 2009) Trustee Restricted Common Share Grant Agreement (Time Vested) between Whitestone REIT and Daniel G. DeVos (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, filed on May 15, 2009) Trustee Restricted Common Share Grant Agreement (Time Vested) between Whitestone REIT and Donald F. Keating (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, filed on May 15, 2009) Trustee Restricted Common Share Grant Agreement (Time Vested) between Whitestone REIT and Jack L. Mahaffey (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 toRegistrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, filed on May 15, 2009) Promissory Note dated September 10, 2010 between Whitestone REIT Operating Company IV LLC and MidFirst Bank (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed September 16, 2010) Modification of Promissory Note dated September 10, 2010 between Whitestone REIT Operating Company IV LLC and MidFirst Bank (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed September 16, 2010) Limited Guarantee dated September 10, 2010 between Whitestone REIT Operating Company IV LLC and MidFirst Bank (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed September 16, 2010) Promissory Note between Whitestone Featherwood LLC and Viewpoint Bank dated March 31, 2011 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8- K, filed April 5, 2011) Credit Agreement among Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, L.P. and Bank of Montreal dated June 13, 2011 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed June 17, 2011) Assumption Agreement among U.S. National Bank Association, Scottsdale Pinnacle LP, Howard Bankchik, Steven J. Fogel, Whitestone Pinnacle of Scottsdale, LLC and Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, LP and Whitestone REIT, dated December 22, 2011 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.35 to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, filed on February 29, 2012) First Amendment to the Whitestone REIT 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.33 to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed on March 1, 2011) 10.35+ Table of Contents Exhibit No. Description Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Index to Exhibits 10.36 10.37+ 10.38+ 10.39 12.1* 21.1* Credit Agreement between Whitestone Operating Partnership, L.P. and Bank of Montreal dated February 27, 2012 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed February 28, 2012) Separation Agreement between Whitestone REIT and Valarie King (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, filed August 9, 2012) Summary of Relocation Agreement between Whitestone REIT and James C. Mastandrea (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, filed August 9, 2012) Credit Agreement between Whitestone Operating Partnership, L.P. and Bank of Montreal dated February 4, 2013 (previously filed and incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed February 8, 2013) Statement of Calculation of Consolidated Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges List of subsidiaries of Whitestone REIT 23.1* Consent of Pannell Kerr Forster of Texas, P.C. 24.1 Power of Attorney (included on the signature page hereto) 31.1* Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 31.2* Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 32.1** Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 32.2** Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 101.INS*** XBRL Instance Document 101. SCH*** XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document 101.CAL*** XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document 101.LAB*** XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document 101.PRE*** XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document 101.DEF*** XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document ________________________ * ** Filed herewith. Furnished herewith. Table of Contents Whitestone REIT and Subsidiaries Index to Exhibits Attached as Exhibit 101 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K are the following materials, formatted in XBRL *** (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 and (v) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the Interactive Data Files on Exhibit 101 hereto are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections. + Denotes management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement. Regulation G Reconciliation of non-GAAP Financial Measures This 2012 Annual Report contains references to non-GAAP financial measures of Funds From Operations ("FFO"),FFO Per Share, Funds From Operations Core ("FFO Core"), FFO Core per share, Net Operating Income ("NOI") and pro forma FFO Core. Funds From Operations ("FFO") Management believes that FFO is a useful measure of the Company's operating performance. The Company computes FFO as defined by the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts, or NAREIT, which states that FFO should represent net income (loss) available to common shareholders (computed in accordance with GAAP) excluding gains or losses from sales of operating assets, impairment charges and extraordinary items, plus depreciation and amortization of operating properties, including the Company's share of unconsolidated real estate joint ventures and partnerships. FFO does not represent cash flows from operating activities determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered an alternative to net income as an indication of the Company's performance or to cash flow from operations as a measure of liquidity or ability to make distributions. Management considers FFO a useful additional measure of performance for an equity REIT because it facilitates an understanding of the operating performance of its properties without giving effect to real estate depreciation and amortization, which assumes that the value of real estate assets diminishes predictably over time. Since real estate values have historically risen or fallen with market conditions, management believes that FFO provides a more meaningful and accurate indication of the Company's performance and useful information for the investment community to compare Whitestone to other REITs since FFO is generally recognized as the industry standard for reporting the operations of REITs. Other REITs may use different methodologies for calculating FFO, and accordingly, the Company's FFO may not be comparable to other REITs. The Company presents FFO per diluted share calculations that are based on the outstanding dilutive common shares plus the outstanding OP units for the periods presented. FFO Core Management believes that the computation of FFO in accordance with NAREIT's definition includes certain items that are not indicative of the results provided by the Company's operating portfolio and affect the comparability of the Company's period-over-period performance. These items include, but are not limited to, extraordinary non-recurring expenses, such as those incurred in connection with the relocation agreement entered into with the Company's Chief Executive Officer, legal settlements, legal and professional fees, gains and losses on insurance claim settlements and acquisition costs. Therefore, in addition to FFO, management uses FFO-Core, which the Company defines to exclude such items. Management believes that these adjustments are appropriate in determining FFO-Core as they are not indicative of the operating performance of the Company's assets. In addition, the Company believes that FFO-Core is a useful supplemental measure for the investing community to use in comparing the Company to other REITs as many REITs provide some form of adjusted or modified FFO. Property Net Operating Income ("NOI") Management believes that NOI is a useful measure of the Company's property operating performance. The Company defines NOI as operating revenues (rental and other revenues) less property and related expenses (property operation and maintenance and real estate taxes). Because NOI excludes general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, involuntary conversion, interest expense, interest income, provision for income taxes and gain or loss on sale or disposition of assets, it provides a performance measure that, when compared year over year, reflects the revenues and expenses directly associated with owning and operating commercial real estate properties and the impact to operations from trends in occupancy rates, rental rates and operating costs, providing perspective not immediately apparent from net income. The Company uses NOI to evaluate its operating performance since NOI allows the Company to evaluate the impact that factors, such as occupancy levels, lease structure, lease rates and tenant base, have on the Company's results, margins and returns. R-1 In addition, management believes that NOI provides useful information to the investment community about the Company's property and operating performance when compared to other REITs since NOI is generally recognized as a standard measure of property performance in the real estate industry. However, NOI should not be viewed as a measure of the Company's overall financial performance since it does not reflect general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, involuntary conversion, interest expense, interest income, provision for income taxes, gain or loss on sale or disposition of assets, and the level of capital expenditures and leasing costs necessary to maintain the operating performance of the Company's properties. Other REITs may use different methodologies for calculating NOI, and accordingly, the Company's NOI may not be comparable to other REITs. R-2 R-3 201220112010FFO AND FFO-CORENet income attributable to Whitestone REIT50$ 1,123$ 1,105$ Depreciation and amortization of real estate assets10,108 7,625 6,697 Loss on disposal of assets112 (251) 160 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests3 210 470 FFO10,273$ 8,707$ 8,432$ Acquisition costs698 666 46 Relocation arrangement2,177 - - Gain on insurance claim settlement- - (558) Legal settlement(131) 254 - FFO-Core13,017$ 9,627$ 7,920$ FFO AND FFO CORE PER SHARE AND OP UNITNumerator:FFO10,273$ 8,707$ 8,432$ Distributions paid on unvested restricted common shares(22) (17) (27) FFO excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted common shares10,251$ 8,690$ 8,405$ 12,995$ 9,610$ 7,893$ FFO Core excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted common sharesDenominator:Weighted average number of total common shares - basic13,496 9,028 4,012 Weighted average number of total noncontrolling OP units - basic848 1,705 1,815 Weighted average number of total common shares and noncontrolling OP units - basic14,344 10,733 5,827 Effect of dilutive securities:Unvested restricted shares117 14 29 Weighted average number of total common shares and noncontrolling OP units - dilutive14,461 10,747 5,856 FFO per common shares and OP unit - basic0.71$ 0.81$ 1.44$ FFO per common shares and OP unit - dilutive0.71$ 0.81$ 1.44$ FFO Core per common shares and OP unit - basic0.91$ 0.90$ 1.35$ FFO Core per common shares and OP unit - dilutive0.90$ 0.89$ 1.35$ PROPERTY NET OPERATING INCOME (NOI)Net income attributable to Whitestone REIT50$ 1,123$ 1,105$ General and administrative expenses7,616 6,648 4,992 Depreciation and amortization10,229 7,749 6,805 Involuntary conversion- - (558) Executive relocation expense2,177 - - Interest expense8,732 6,344 6,040 Interest, dividend and other investment income(290) (460) (28) Provision for income taxes286 225 264 Loss on disposal of assets112 146 160 Gain on sale of property- (397) - Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests3 210 470 NOI28,915$ 21,588$ 19,250$ Whitestone REIT and SubsidiariesRECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES(in thousands, except per share and per unit data)Year Ended December 31, R-4 Whitestone REITPro Forma AdjustmentsPro Forma Consolidated(B)(C)FFO CORE PER SHARENet income attributable to Whitestone REIT50$ 2,742$ 2,792$ Depreciation and amortization of real estate assets10,108 1,070 11,178 Loss on disposal of assets112 - 112 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests3 - 3 FFO10,273$ 3,812$ 14,085$ Acquisition costs698 - 698 Relocation arrangement2,177 - 2,177 Gain on insurance claim settlement- - - Legal settlement(131) - (131) FFO-Core13,017$ 3,812$ 16,829$ FFO AND FFO CORE PER SHARE AND OP UNITNumerator:FFO10,273$ 3,812$ 14,085$ Distributions paid on unvested restricted common shares(22) - (22) FFO excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted common shares10,251$ 3,812$ 14,063$ 12,995$ 3,812$ 16,807$ FFO Core excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted common sharesDenominator:Weighted average number of total common shares - basic13,496 3,237 16,733 Weighted average number of total noncontrolling OP units - basic848 (113) 735 Weighted average number of total common shares and noncontrolling OP units - basic14,344 3,124 17,468 Effect of dilutive securities:Unvested restricted shares117 117 117 Weighted average number of total common shares and noncontrolling OP units - dilutive14,461 3,241 17,585 FFO per common share and OP unit - basic0.71$ 0.81$ FFO per common share and OP unit - dilutive0.71$ 0.80$ FFO Core per common share and OP unit - basic0.91$ 0.96$ FFO Core per common share and OP unit - dilutive0.90$ 0.96$ (C) Figures represent the pro forma impact of owning the properties acquired in 2012, as if they were acquired on January 1, 2012. The net income adjustment reflects incremental property net operating income, as if the properties acquired in 2012, were acquired on January 1, 2012, less incremental interest expense, as if the debt incurred to purchase the properties was borrowed fully as of January 1, 2012. Additionally, the share counts and per share calculations reflect our August 2012 common share offering as if it occured on January 1, 2012. (A) This pro forma presentation should be read with the financial information included in our accompanying Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012. This calculation is based on assumptions that we believe are reasonable and does not purport to represent our FFO Core if our 2012 acquisitions and our August 2012 offering had each actually occured on January 1, 2012.(B) Reflects the historical operating results of Whitestone REIT included in Whitestone's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012.Whitestone REIT and SubsidiariesCalculation and Reconciliaiton of Pro forma FFO and FFO Core (A)For the Year Ended December 31, 2012 Corporate Information BOARD OF TRUSTEES James C. Mastandrea, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Whitestone REIT; Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President, Paragon Real Estate Equity and Investment Trust and MDC Realty Corporation; former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First Union REIT (NYSE); Director, Cleveland State University Foundation Board; Director, University Circle Board; Director, Calvin Business Alliance Board, Adjunct Professor, Rice University; Guest Lecturer, University of Chicago. Daryl J. Carter, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Avanath Capital Partners and Capri Capital; former Executive Managing Director and Head of Real Estate Group, Centerline Capital Group (NYSE); former President, American Mortgage Acceptance Corporation. Daniel G. DeVos, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, DP Fox Ventures; Owner, Grand Rapids Rampage (AFL) and Chairman of Orlando Magic (NBA); Director, Alticor, Inc. (parent company of Amway Corporation); Trustee, Paragon Real Estate Equity and Investment Trust; former Vice President, Pacific and Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Amway Corporation; former Trustee, First Union REIT (NYSE). Donald F. Keating, Former Chief Financial Officer, Shell Mining Company; former Director, Billiton Metal Company, R&F Coal Company and Marrowbone Coal Company. Paul T. Lambert, President, Lambert Capital Corporation; former Principal and Managing Partner, Shidler Group; Founder and former Director and Chief Operating Officer, First Industrial Realty Trust; Trustee, Paragon Real Estate Equity and Investment Trust. Jack L. Mahaffey, Former Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Shell Mining Company; Former Director, National Coal Association and the National Coal Counsel. OFFICERS James C. Mastandrea, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John J. Dee, Chief Operating Officer David K. Holeman, Chief Financial Officer Gregory J. Belsheim, Senior Vice President, Human Resources Anne I. Gregory, Vice President, Marketing and Investor Relations J. Scott Hogan, Vice President and Controller Bradford D. Johnson, Vice President of Acquisitions and Asset Management Christine J. Mastandrea, Vice President, Property Strategy and Market Research Kyle A. Miller, Vice President, Operations Daniel E. Nixon, Jr., Senior Vice President, Regional Director Richard D. Rollnick, Senior Vice President, Regional Director Theadore R. Zeck, Vice President, Information Systems Corporate Headquarters: Whitestone REIT 2600 South Gessner, Suite 500 Houston, TX 77063 Toll Free: (866) 789-7348 Direct: (713) 435-2227 E-Mail: IR@whitestonereit.com Website: www.whitestonereit.com Corporate Counsel: Bass, Berry & Sims, PLC Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm: Pannell, Kerr & Forster of Texas, PC Tax Accountant: Plante & Moran, PLLC 225 W. Washington St. Suite 2700 Chicago IL 60606 Annual Meeting: May 20, 2013 8:30 A.M. The Houstonian Hotel 111 North Post Oak Lane, Houston, TX 77024 Investor Relations: Shareholders are encouraged to contact the Company with questions or requests for information. A copy of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is included as part of this annual report and is available upon written request and online at the SEC website: www.sec.gov. Registrar & Transfer Agent: American Stock Transfer & Trust Company 6201 15th Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11219 Account Maintenance Inquiries Should Be Directed To: AST Shareholder Services Department (800) 937-5449 or (718) 921-8200 Chicago, IL Carefree, AZ Chandler, AZ Gilbert, AZ Mesa, AZ Phoenix, AZ Scottsdale, AZ Houston, TX Dallas, TX Frisco, TX San Antonio, TX 2600 South Gessner Suite 500  Houston, TX 77063  P: 713.827.9595  F: 713.465.8847  www.whitestonereit.com © 2013 Whitestone REIT. All rights reserved.

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