FIRST REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST OF NEW JERSEY - Annual Report: 2011 (Form 10-K)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

For the Fiscal Year Ended October 31, 2011

Commission File No. 000-25043

201-488-6400

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

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

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

Shares of Beneficial Interest

(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 £ No S

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 S

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 S 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 S No £

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K 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, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

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

The aggregate market value of the registrant’s shares of beneficial interest held by non-affiliates was approximately $88 million. Computation is based on the closing sales price of such shares as quoted on the over-the-counter-market on April 30, 2011, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second quarter.

As of January 13, 2012, the number of shares of beneficial interest outstanding was 6,942,143

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: Portions of the Proxy Statement for the Registrant’s 2012 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on April 4, 2012 are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Annual Report.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

FORM 10-K 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain information included in this Annual Report contains or may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). The registrant cautions readers that forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, those relating to the registrant’s investment policies and objectives; the financial performance of the registrant; the ability of the registrant to borrow and service its debt; the economic and competitive conditions which affect the registrant’s business; the ability of the registrant to obtain the necessary governmental approvals for the development, expansion or renovation of its properties, the impact of environmental conditions affecting the registrant’s properties, and the registrant’s liquidity and capital resources, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results or outcomes may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements and will be affected by a variety of risks and factors, including, without limitation, the registrant’s future financial performance; the availability of capital; general market conditions; national and local economic conditions, particularly long-term interest rates; federal, state and local governmental regulations that affect the registrant; and the competitive environment in which the registrant operates, including, the availability of retail space and residential apartment units in the areas where the registrant’s properties are located. In addition, the registrant’s continued qualification as a real estate investment trust involves the application of highly technical and complex rules of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Internal Revenue Code”). The forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this Annual Report and the registrant assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or to update the reasons actual results could differ from those projected in such forward-looking statements.

PART I

First Real Estate Investment Trust of New Jersey (“FREIT”) is an equity real estate investment trust (“REIT”) organized in New Jersey in 1961. FREIT acquires, develops, constructs and holds real estate properties for long-term investment and not for resale.

FREIT’s long-range investment policy is to review and evaluate potential real estate investment opportunities for acquisition that it believes will (i) complement its existing investment portfolio, (ii) generate increased income and distributions to its shareholders, and (iii) increase the overall value of FREIT’s portfolio. FREIT’s investments may take the form of wholly-owned fee interests, or if the circumstances warrant diversification of risk, ownership on a joint venture basis with other parties, including employees and affiliates of Hekemian & Co., Inc., FREIT’s managing agent (“Hekemian”) (See “Management Agreement”), provided FREIT is able to maintain management control over the property. While our general investment policy is to hold and maintain properties for the long-term, we may, from time-to-time, sell or trade certain properties in order to (i) obtain capital to be used to purchase, develop or renovate other properties which we believe will provide a higher rate of return and increase the value of our investment portfolio, and (ii) divest properties which we have determined or determine are no longer compatible with our growth strategies and investment objectives for our real estate portfolio.

FREIT Website

All of FREIT’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings for the past three years are available free of charge on FREIT’s website, which can be accessed at http://www.FREITNJ.com.

Fiscal Year 2011 Developments

(ii)   CONSTRUCTION

The modernization and expansion project at the Damascus Center was completed in November 2011. Total construction costs, inclusive of tenant improvement costs, approximates $22.7 million. The building plans incorporated an expansion of retail space from 140,000 sq. ft. to approximately 150,000 sq. ft., anchored by a modern 58,000 sq. ft. Safeway supermarket. Construction was completed in three phases. Phase I began in June 2007, and was completed in June 2008, at a cost of approximately $6.2 million, of which $1.1 million related to tenant improvements. Phase II, which comprised the new Safeway supermarket, began in December 2008, and was completed in September 2009, at a cost of approximately $9.8 million. Phase III construction, which began in June 2011, was substantially complete as of October 31, 2011, and was completed in November 2011, at a cost of approximately $6.4 million. Additional tenant fit-up costs are expected, once the new space is leased and occupied. Funding for this project was made available under a construction loan facility in the amount of $21.3 million. The construction loan is secured by the Damascus Center. The loan was drawn upon as needed to fund construction costs at the Damascus Center. Because of this expansion, leases for certain tenants were allowed to expire and were not renewed. This has caused occupancy to decline, on a temporary basis, during the construction phase. However, with the completion of each of the three phases, certain tenant leases have been renewed and occupancy is beginning to increase.  

Redevelopment plans and studies for the phased expansion and renovation of the Rotunda have been prepared. The Rotunda, on an 11.5-acre site, currently consists of an office building containing 138,000 sq. ft. of office space and 78,000 sq. ft. of retail space on the lower floor of the main building. The building plans incorporate an expansion of approximately 180,500 sq. ft. of retail space, approximately 302 residential rental apartments, 56 condominium units and 120 hotel rooms, and structured parking. Development costs for this project are expected to approximate $200 million. As of October 31, 2011, the Company has incurred approximately $7.5 million of such costs, which are included in Construction in Progress (“CIP”) on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. City Planning Board approval has been received. Due to the difficult economic environment, that redevelopment activity was placed on hold by FREIT during the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2008. The delay notwithstanding, at this time, FREIT currently intends, upon improvement in the economic and financing climate, to resume the redevelopment of the Rotunda as planned. To that end, FREIT has had, from time to time, ongoing discussions with potential sources of financing and potential major national and local tenants. 

(iii)   PLANNED DISPOSITION

On July 7, 2010, FREIT’s Board of Trustees authorized management to pursue a sale of the 256,620 sq. ft. Westridge Square Shopping Center (“Westridge”) located in Frederick, Maryland. The decision to sell the property (acquired in 1992) was based on the Board’s desire to re-deploy the net proceeds or other consideration arising from the sale to real estate assets in other areas of FREIT’s operations.

On April 15, 2011, FREIT was notified by Giant of Maryland LLC (“Giant”), the former tenant and operator of the 55,330 sq. ft. Giant Supermarket at Westridge that it would not extend the term of its lease, which expired on October 31, 2011. Giant elected not to renew its lease at Westridge, and FREIT is actively pursuing the re-leasing of the space vacated by Giant. FREIT will reevaluate its decision to market Westridge for sale in light of the Giant lease expiration. See “Segment Information – Commercial Segment” under Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” below.

On June 3, 2011, FREIT’s Board of Trustees authorized management to pursue the sale of the Palisades Manor Apartments, in Palisades Park, NJ, the Grandview Apartments in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, and the Heights Manor Apartments in Spring Lake Heights, NJ. The decision to pursue the sale of these properties was based on the Board’s desire to re-deploy the net proceeds arising from the sale to real estate assets in other areas of FREIT’s operations. It is not possible for management to estimate when a sale of any of these properties will occur, and therefore, the properties continue to be classified as held for use as of October 31, 2011.

FREIT has two reportable segments: Commercial Properties and Residential Properties. These reportable segments have different types of tenants and are managed separately because each requires different operating strategies and management expertise. Segment information for the three years ended October 31, 2011 is included in Note 11 “Segment Information” to FREIT’s consolidated financial statements.

FREIT was founded and organized for the principal purpose of acquiring, developing, and owning a portfolio of diverse income producing real estate properties. FREIT’s developed properties include residential apartment communities and commercial properties that consist of multi and single tenanted properties. Our properties are located in New Jersey, Maryland and on Long Island, NY. We also currently own approximately 40.37 acres of unimproved land in New Jersey. See Item 2, “Properties - Portfolio of Investments.” 

FREIT elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code. FREIT operates in such a manner as to qualify for taxation as a REIT in order to take advantage of certain favorable tax aspects of the REIT structure. Generally, a REIT will not be subject to federal income taxes on that portion of its ordinary income or capital gain that is currently distributed to its equity holders.

As an equity REIT, we generally acquire interests in income producing properties to be held as long-term investments. FREIT’s return on such investments is based on the income generated by such properties mainly in the form of rents.

From time to time, FREIT has sold, and may sell again in the future, certain of its properties in order to (i) obtain capital used or to be used to purchase, develop or renovate other properties which we believe will provide a higher rate of return and increase the value of our investment portfolio, and (ii) divest properties which FREIT has determined or determines are no longer compatible with our growth strategies and investment objectives for our real estate portfolio.

We do not hold any patents, registered trademarks, or licenses. 

Portfolio of Real Estate Investments

At October 31, 2011, FREIT’s real estate holdings included (i) nine (9) apartment buildings or complexes containing 1,075 rentable units, (ii) ten (10) commercial properties (retail and office) containing approximately 1,265,000 square feet of leasable space, including one (1) single tenant store, two (2) separate one acre parcels subject to ground leases, and (iii) four (4) parcels of undeveloped land consisting of approximately 40.37 acres. FREIT and its subsidiaries own all such properties in fee simple. See Item 2, “Properties - Portfolio of Investments” of this Annual Report for a description of FREIT’s separate investment properties and certain other pertinent information with respect to such properties that is relevant to FREIT’s business.

Investment in Subsidiaries 

The consolidated financial statements (See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Form 10-K) include the accounts of the following subsidiaries of FREIT:

Westwood Hills, LLC (“Westwood Hills”): FREIT owns a 40% membership interest in Westwood Hills, which owns and operates a 210-unit residential apartment complex in Westwood, NJ.

Wayne PSC, LLC (“WaynePSC”): FREIT owns a 40% membership interest in Wayne PSC, which owns a 322,000 sq. ft. community center in Wayne, NJ.

S And A Commercial Associates Limited Partnership (“S And A”): S And A owns a 100% interest in Pierre Towers, LLC, which owns a 269-unit residential apartment complex in Hackensack, NJ. FREIT owns a 65% partnership interest in S And A.

Grande Rotunda, LLC: FREIT owns a 60% membership interest in Grande Rotunda, which owns a 217,000 square foot mixed use property in Baltimore, MD.

Damascus Centre, LLC: FREIT owns a 70% membership interest in Damascus Centre, LLC which owns the Damascus Center that has recently been renovated and expanded. See Item 1-a(ii), “Construction”.

Damascus Second, LLC: FREIT owns a 70% interest in Damascus Second, LLC, which assumed a $21.3 million (originally $27.3 million) construction loan from Bank of America for the purpose of assisting Damascus Centre, LLC in owning, operating, managing and, as required, renovating the land and premises of the Damascus Center.

WestFREIT Corp: FREIT owns a 100% membership interest in WestFREIT, which owns Westridge, a 257,000 square foot shopping center in Frederick, MD.

WestFredic LLC: FREIT owns a 100% membership interest in WestFredic, which assumed a $22 million mortgage loan that is secured by Westridge in Frederick, MD.

Employees

On October 31, 2011 FREIT and its subsidiaries had seventeen (17) full-time employees and seven (7) part-time employees who work solely at the properties owned by FREIT or its subsidiaries. The number of part-time employees varies seasonally.

Mr. Robert S. Hekemian, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Donald W. Barney, President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, and Mr. John A. Aiello, Esq., Secretary and Executive Secretary, are the executive officers of FREIT. Mr. Hekemian devotes approximately seventy percent (70%) of his business activities to FREIT, Mr. Barney devotes approximately fifteen percent (15%) of his business activities to FREIT, and Mr. Aiello devotes approximately eight percent (8%) of his business activities to FREIT. Refer to “Item 10 – Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.” Hekemian has been retained by FREIT to manage FREIT’s properties and is responsible for recruiting, on behalf of FREIT, the personnel required to perform all services related to the operation of FREIT’s properties. See “Management Agreement” below. 

Management Agreement

On April 10, 2002, FREIT and Hekemian executed a Management Agreement whereby Hekemian would continue as Managing Agent for FREIT. The term of the Management Agreement renewed on November 1, 2011 for a two-year term, will expire on October 31, 2013. The Management Agreement automatically renews for successive periods of two years unless either party gives not less than six (6) months prior notice to the other of non-renewal. The salient provisions of the Management Agreement are as follows: FREIT retains Hekemian as the exclusive management and leasing agent for properties which FREIT owned as of April 2002 and for the Preakness Shopping Center acquired on November 1, 2002 by WaynePSC. However, FREIT may retain other managing agents to manage certain other properties acquired after April 10, 2002 and to perform various other duties such as sales, acquisitions, and development with respect to any or all properties. Hekemian does not serve as the exclusive advisor for FREIT to locate and recommend to FREIT investments, which Hekemian deems suitable for FREIT, and is not required to offer potential acquisition properties exclusively to FREIT before acquiring those properties for its own account. The Management Agreement includes a detailed schedule of fees for those services, which Hekemian may be called upon to perform. The Management Agreement provides for a termination fee in the event of a termination or non-renewal of the Management Agreement under certain circumstances.

Pursuant to the terms of the Management Agreement, FREIT pays Hekemian certain fees and commissions as compensation for its services. From time to time, FREIT engages Hekemian to provide certain additional services, such as consulting services related to development and financing activities of FREIT. Separate fee arrangements are negotiated between Hekemian and FREIT or its affiliates, with respect to such additional services. During the 4^th quarter of Fiscal 2007, FREIT’s Board of Trustees approved, in general, development fee arrangements for the development services to be performed at the Rotunda (owned by Grande Rotunda, LLC), the Damascus Center (owned by Damascus Centre, LLC), and the South Brunswick project. These fees will be payable to Hekemian Development Resources LLC (“Resources”), a wholly owned affiliate of Hekemian. Definitive agreements for the development services to be performed at the Rotunda and the Damascus Center have been executed. The development fee arrangement for the Rotunda provides for Resources to receive a fee equal to 6.375% of the total development costs of up to $136 million (as may be modified), and the fee for the redevelopment of the Damascus Center to be equal to 7% of the redevelopment costs of up to approximately $17.3 million (as may be modified). The minority ownership interests of Grande Rotunda, LLC and Damascus Centre, LLC are owned by Rotunda 100, LLC and Damascus 100, LLC, which are principally owned by employees of Hekemian, including certain members of the immediate family of Robert S. Hekemian, FREIT’s CEO and Chairman, and Robert S. Hekemian, Jr., a trustee of FREIT, and the members of the Hekemian family have majority management control of these entities. In connection with the development activities at South Brunswick, the fees with respect to this project are 7% of development costs of up to $21million (as may be modified). A definitive contract regarding the specific services to be provided at the South Brunswick project has not yet been finalized and approved. See Note 6 to FREIT’s consolidated financial statements. 

Mr. Robert S. Hekemian, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and a Trustee of FREIT, is the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Hekemian. Mr. Hekemian owns approximately 0.2% of all of the issued and outstanding shares of Hekemian. Mr. Robert S. Hekemian, Jr, a Trustee of FREIT, is the President of Hekemian, and owns approximately 33.3% of all of the issued and outstanding shares of Hekemian.

Real Estate Financing

FREIT funds acquisition opportunities and the development of its real estate properties largely through debt financing, including mortgage loans against certain of its properties. At October 31, 2011, FREIT’s aggregate outstanding mortgage debt was $203.3 million with an average interest cost on a weighted average basis of 4.29%. FREIT has mortgage loans against certain properties, which serve as collateral for such loans. See the tables in Item 2, “Properties - Portfolio of Investments” for the outstanding mortgage balances at October 31, 2011 with respect to each of these properties.

FREIT is currently highly leveraged and will continue to be for the foreseeable future. This increased level of indebtedness also presents an increased risk of default on the obligations of FREIT and an increase in debt service requirements that could adversely affect the financial condition and results of operations of FREIT. A number of FREIT’s mortgage loans are being amortized over a period that is longer than the terms of such loans; thereby requiring balloon payments at the expiration of the terms of such loans. FREIT has not established a cash reserve sinking fund with respect to such obligations and at this time does not expect to have sufficient funds from operations to make such balloon payments when due under the terms of such loans. See “Liquidity and Capital Resources” under Item 7.

FREIT is subject to the normal risks associated with debt financing, including the risk that FREIT’s cash flow will be insufficient to meet required payments of principal and interest; the risk that indebtedness on its properties will not be able to be renewed, repaid or refinanced when due; or that the terms of any renewal or refinancing will not be as favorable as the terms of the indebtedness being replaced. If FREIT were unable to refinance its indebtedness on acceptable terms, or at all, FREIT might be forced to dispose of one or more of its properties on disadvantageous terms which might result in losses to FREIT. These losses could have a material adverse effect on FREIT and its ability to make distributions to shareholders and to pay amounts due on its debt. If a property is mortgaged to secure payment of indebtedness and FREIT is unable to meet mortgage payments, the mortgagee could foreclose upon the property, appoint a receiver and receive an assignment of rents and leases or pursue other remedies, all with a consequent loss of revenues and asset value to FREIT. Further, payment obligations on FREIT’s mortgage loans will not be reduced if there is a decline in the economic performance of any of FREIT’s properties. If any such decline in economic performance occurs, FREIT’s revenues, earnings, and funds available for distribution to shareholders would be adversely affected.

Neither FREIT’s Declaration of Trust nor any policy statement formally adopted by FREIT’s Board of Trustees limits either the total amount of indebtedness or the specified percentage of indebtedness (based on the total capitalization of FREIT), which may be incurred by FREIT. Accordingly, FREIT may incur in the future additional secured or unsecured indebtedness in furtherance of its business activities, including, if or when necessary, to refinance its existing debt. Future debt incurred by FREIT could bear interest at rates, which are higher than the rates on FREIT’s existing debt. Future debt incurred by FREIT could also bear interest at a variable rate. Increases in interest rates would increase FREIT’s variable interest costs (to the extent that the related indebtedness was not protected by interest rate protection arrangements), which could have a material adverse effect on FREIT and its ability to make distributions to shareholders and to pay amounts due on its debt or cause FREIT to be in default under its debt. Further, in the future, FREIT may not be able to, or may determine that it is not able to, obtain financing for property acquisitions or for capital expenditures to develop or improve its properties on terms, which are acceptable to FREIT. In such event, FREIT might elect to defer certain projects unless alternative sources of capital were available, such as through an equity or debt offering by FREIT.

Competitive Conditions

FREIT is subject to normal competition with other investors to acquire real property and to profitably manage such property. Numerous other REITs, banks, insurance companies and pension funds, as well as corporate and individual developers and owners of real estate, compete with FREIT in seeking properties for acquisition and for tenants. Many of these competitors have significantly greater financial resources than FREIT.

In addition, retailers at FREIT's commercial properties face increasing competition from discount shopping centers, outlet malls, sales through catalogue offerings, discount shopping clubs, marketing and shopping through cable and computer sources, particularly over the internet, and telemarketing. In many markets, the trade areas of FREIT's commercial properties overlap with the trade areas of other shopping centers. Renovations and expansions at those competing shopping centers and malls could negatively affect FREIT's commercial properties by encouraging shoppers to make their purchases at such new, expanded or renovated shopping centers and malls. Increased competition through these various sources could adversely affect the viability of FREIT's tenants, and any new commercial real estate competition developed in the future could potentially have an adverse effect on the revenues of and earnings from FREIT's commercial properties.

The revenues and value of FREIT’s commercial and residential apartment properties may be adversely affected by a number of factors, including, without limitation, the national economic climate; the regional economic climate (which may be adversely affected by plant closings, industry slow downs and other local business factors); local real estate conditions (such as an oversupply of retail space or apartment units); perceptions by retailers or shoppers of the security, safety, convenience and attractiveness of a shopping center; perception by residential tenants of the safety, convenience and attractiveness of an apartment building or complex; the proximity and the number of competing shopping centers and apartment complexes; the availability of recreational and other amenities and the willingness and ability of the owner to provide capable management and adequate maintenance. In addition, other factors may adversely affect the fair market value of a commercial property or apartment building or complex without necessarily affecting the revenues, including changes in government regulations (such as limitations on development or on hours of operation) changes in tax laws or rates, and potential environmental or other legal liabilities.

FREIT believes that its revenues and earnings; its ability to meet its debt obligations; and its funds available for distribution to shareholders would be adversely affected if space in FREIT's multi-store shopping center properties could not be leased or if anchor store tenants or satellite tenants failed to meet their lease obligations.

The success of FREIT's investment in its shopping center properties is largely dependent upon the success of its tenants. Unfavorable economic, demographic, or competitive conditions may adversely affect the financial condition of tenants and consequently the lease revenues from and the value of FREIT's investments in its shopping center properties. If the sales of stores operating in FREIT's shopping center properties were to decline due to deteriorating economic conditions, the tenants may be unable to pay their base rents or meet other lease charges and fees due to FREIT. In addition, any lease provisions providing for additional rent based on a percentage of sales would not be operative in this economic environment. In the event of default by a tenant, FREIT could suffer a loss of rent and experience extraordinary delays while incurring additional costs in enforcing its rights under the lease, which may or may not be recaptured by FREIT. As at October 31, 2011 the following table lists the ten (10) largest commercial tenants, which account for approximately 53.8% of FREIT’s leased commercial rental space and 36.5% of fixed commercial rents.

Note: Giant Food of Maryland at Westridge is not included in the schedule of the 10 largest commercial tenants, since Giant vacated its space, amounting to 55,330 sq ft, in May 2011. However, Giant continued to pay its monthly rent through October 31, 2011, which was the expiration date of their lease. Giant elected not to extend its lease as of November 1, 2011. FREIT is actively pursuing the re-leasing of the space vacated by Giant.           

There is no assurance that we will be able to retain tenants at our commercial properties upon expiration of their leases. Upon expiration or termination of leases for space located in FREIT's commercial properties, the premises may not be relet or the terms of reletting (including the cost of concessions to tenants) may not be as favorable as lease terms for the terminated lease. If FREIT were unable to promptly relet all or a substantial portion of this space or if the rental rates upon such reletting were significantly lower than current or expected rates, FREIT's revenues and earnings, FREIT’s ability to service its debt, and FREIT’s ability to make expected distributions to its shareholders, could be adversely affected. During Fiscal 2011, FREIT was notified by the former tenant and operator of the 55,330 sq. ft. Giant Supermarket at Westridge that it would not extend the term of its lease, which expired on October 31, 2011. FREIT is actively pursuing the re-leasing of the space vacated by Giant. There were no other material lease expirations during Fiscal 2011 and Fiscal 2010. Other than the Giant lease at Westridge, there are no other material lease expirations expected during Fiscal 2012.

Equity real estate investments are relatively illiquid. Accordingly, the ability of FREIT to vary its portfolio in response to changing economic, market or other conditions is limited. Also, FREIT's interests in its partially owned subsidiaries are subject to transfer constraints imposed by the operating agreements which govern FREIT’s investment in these partially owned subsidiaries. Even without such restrictions on the transfer of its interests, FREIT believes that there would be a limited market for its interests in these partially owned subsidiaries.

If FREIT had to liquidate all or substantially all of its real estate holdings, the value of such assets would likely be diminished if a sale was required to be completed in a limited time frame. The proceeds to FREIT from any such sale of the assets in FREIT’s real estate portfolio might be less than the fair market value of those assets.

Impact of Governmental Laws and Regulations on Registrant's Business

FREIT’s properties are subject to various federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations, including those relating to the environment and local rent control and zoning ordinances.

Both federal and state governments are concerned with the impact of real estate construction and development programs upon the environment. Environmental legislation affects the cost of selling real estate, the cost to develop real estate, and the risks associated with purchasing real estate.

Under various federal, state and local environmental laws, statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations, an owner of real property may be liable for the costs of removal or remediation of certain hazardous or toxic substances at, on, in or under such property, as well as certain other potential costs relating to hazardous or toxic substances (including government fines and penalties and damages for injuries to persons and adjacent property). Such laws often impose such liability without regard to whether the owners knew of, or were responsible for, the presence or disposal of such substances. Such liability may be imposed on the owner in connection with the activities of any operator of, or tenant at, the property. The cost of any required remediation, removal, fines or personal injury or property damages and the property owner's liability therefore could exceed the value of the property and/or the aggregate assets of the owner. In addition, the presence of such substances, or the failure to properly dispose of or remediate such substances, may adversely affect the owner's ability to sell or rent such property or to borrow using such property as collateral. If FREIT incurred any such liability, it could reduce FREIT's revenues and ability to make distributions to its shareholders.

A property can also be negatively impacted by either physical contamination or by virtue of an adverse effect upon value attributable to the migration of hazardous or toxic substances, or other contaminants that have or may have emanated from other properties.

At this time, FREIT is aware of the following environmental matters affecting its properties:

This property is in a Flood Hazard Zone. FREIT maintains flood insurance in the amount of $500,000 for the subject property, which is the maximum available under the Flood Program for the property. Any reconstruction of that portion of the property situated in the flood hazard zone is subject to regulations promulgated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection ("NJDEP"), which could require extraordinary construction methods.

The redeveloped Franklin Crossing shopping center was completed during the summer of 1997. Also in 1997, a historical discharge of hazardous materials was discovered at Franklin Crossing. The discharge was reported to the NJDEP in accordance with applicable regulations. FREIT completed the remediation required by the NJDEP.

In November 1999, FREIT received a No Further Action Letter from the NJDEP concerning the contaminated soil at Franklin Crossing. Monitoring of the groundwater will continue pursuant to a memorandum of agreement filed with the NJDEP.

Prior to its purchase, in November 2002, by WaynePSC, a Phase I and Phase II Environmental Assessment of the Preakness shopping center revealed soil and ground water contamination with Percloroethylene (Dry Cleaning Fluid) caused by the mishandling of this chemical by a former Dry Cleaner tenant.

The seller of the center to WaynePSC is in the process of performing the remedial work in accordance with the requirements of the NJDEP. Additionally, the seller has escrowed the estimated cost of the remediation and has purchased a cap-cost insurance policy covering any expenses over and above the estimated cost.

In performing the remedial work, possible contamination of this property by groundwater migrating from an offsite source was discovered. The NJDEP has not made any determination with respect to responsibility for remediation of this possible condition, and it is not possible to determine whether or to what extent Wayne PSC will have potential liability with respect to this condition or whether or to what extent insurance coverage may be available.

a) The State of New Jersey has adopted an underground fuel storage tank law and various regulations with respect to underground storage tanks.

FREIT no longer has underground storage tanks on any of its properties.

In prior years, FREIT conducted environmental audits for all of its properties except for its undeveloped land; retail properties in Franklin Lakes (Franklin Crossing) and Glen Rock, New Jersey; and residential apartment properties located in Palisades Park and Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey. Except as noted in subparagraph (iii) above, the environmental reports secured by FREIT have not revealed any environmental conditions on its properties, which require remediation pursuant to any applicable Federal or state law or regulation.

b) FREIT has determined that several of its properties contain lead based paint (“LBP”). FREIT believes that it complies with all federal, state and local requirements as they pertain to LBP.

FREIT does not believe that the environmental conditions described in subparagraphs (i) - (iv) above will have a material adverse effect upon the capital expenditures, revenues, earnings, financial condition or competitive position of FREIT.

Each of the apartment buildings or complexes owned by FREIT is subject to some form of rent control ordinance which limits the amount by which FREIT can increase the rent for renewed leases, and in some cases, limits the amount of rent which FREIT can charge for vacated units, except for Westwood Hills and The Boulders at Rockaway which are not subject to any rent control law or regulation.

Local zoning ordinances may prevent FREIT from renovating, expanding or converting its existing properties for their highest and best use as determined by FREIT’s Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees is not aware of any such zoning impediments to the development of the South Brunswick property described herein.

FREIT does not engage in operations in foreign countries and it does not derive any portion of its revenues from customers in foreign countries.

Almost all of FREIT’s income and cash flow are derived from the net rental income (revenues after expenses) from our properties. FREIT’s business and financial results are affected by the following fundamental factors:

·         the national and regional economic climate;

·         occupancy rates at the properties;

·         tenant turnover rates;

·         rental rates;

·         operating expenses;

·         tenant improvement and leasing costs;

·         cost of and availability of capital;

·         failure of banking institutions;

·         failure of insurance carriers;

·         new acquisitions and development projects; and

·         changes in governmental regulations, real estate tax rates and similar matters.

A negative or adverse quality change in the above factors could potentially cause a detrimental effect on FREIT’s revenue, earnings and cash flow. If rental revenues decline, we would expect to have less cash available to pay our indebtedness and distribute to our shareholders.

Adverse Changes in General Economic Climate: FREIT derives the majority of its revenues from renting apartments to individuals or families, and from retailers renting space at its shopping centers. Although the U.S. economy has recovered from the recession, the rate of recovery has been much slower than anticipated. Forecasts for economic growth and job gains over the next year have been downsized, due in large part to the recent turbulence in the US and global markets. While bank earnings and liquidity are on the rebound, the potential of significant future credit losses clouds the lending outlook. Credit availability has improved, but still lags pre-recession levels, hampering business expansion and new development activities. The higher level of unemployment in our areas of operation, coupled with the sluggish rate of economic recovery, may continue to adversely impact the level of consumer spending at some of our retail tenants, resulting in their inability to pay rent and/or expense recovery, as well as adversely impact occupancy levels at our residential properties. Some retail tenants have vacated, and others may continue to vacate or fail to exercise renewal options for their space.

We receive a substantial portion of our operating income as rent under long-term leases with commercial tenants. At any time, any of our commercial tenants could experience a downturn in its business that might weaken its financial condition. These tenants might defer or fail to make rental payments when due, delay lease commencement, voluntarily vacate the premises or declare bankruptcy, which could result in the termination of the tenant’s lease, and could result in material losses to us and harm to our results of operations. Also, it might take time to terminate leases of underperforming or nonperforming tenants and we might incur costs to remove such tenants. Given current conditions in the capital markets, retailers that have sought protection from creditors under bankruptcy law have had difficulty in some instances in obtaining debtor-in-possession financing, which has decreased the likelihood that such retailers will emerge from bankruptcy protection and has limited their alternatives. Also, if tenants are unable to comply with the terms of our leases, we might modify lease terms in ways that are less favorable to us.

Tenants unable to pay rent: Financially distressed tenants may be unable to pay rents and expense recovery charges, where applicable, and may default on their leases. Enforcing our rights as landlord could result in substantial costs and may not result in a full recovery of unpaid rent. If a tenant files for bankruptcy, the tenant’s lease may be terminated. In each such instance FREIT’s income and cash flow would be negatively impacted.

Costs of re-renting space: If tenants fail to renew leases, fail to exercise renewal options, or terminate their leases early, the lost rents due to vacancy and the costs of re-renting the space could prove costly to FREIT. In addition to cleaning and renovating the vacated space, we may be required to grant concessions to a new tenant, and may incur leasing brokerage commissions. The lease terms to a new tenant may be less favorable than the prior tenant’s lease terms, and will negatively impact FREIT’s income and cash flow and adversely affect our ability to pay mortgage debt and interest or make distributions to our shareholders. FREIT is currently in the process of actively pursuing the re-leasing of the space at Westridge that was vacated by Giant as of November 1, 2011.

Inflation may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations: Increased inflation could have a pronounced negative impact on our operating and administrative expenses, as these costs may increase at a higher rate than our rents. While increases in most operating expenses at our commercial properties can be passed on to retail tenants, increases in expenses at our residential properties cannot be passed on to residential tenants. Unreimbursed increased operating expenses may reduce cash flow available for payment of mortgage debt and interest, and for distributions to shareholders.

Development and construction risks: As part of its investment strategy, FREIT seeks to acquire property for development and construction, as well as to develop and build on land already in its portfolio. FREIT has recently completed a major expansion project at the Damascus Center and is planning a major redevelopment at the Rotunda property in Baltimore, Maryland. In addition it is contemplating the construction of an industrial building on its South Brunswick, New Jersey property. Development and construction activities are challenged with the following risks, which may adversely affect our cash flow:

·         financing may not be available in the amounts we seek, or may not be on favorable terms;

·         long-term financing may not be available upon completion of the construction;

·         failure to complete construction on schedule or within budget may increase debt service costs and construction costs; and

·         abandoned project costs could result in an impairment loss.

Debt financing could adversely affect income and cash flow: FREIT relies on debt financing to fund its growth through acquisitions and development activities. To the extent third party debt financing is not available, or not available on acceptable terms, acquisitions and development activities will be curtailed.

FREIT currently has approximately $172.2 million of non-recourse mortgage debt subject to fixed interest rates, and $31.1 million of partial recourse mortgage debt subject to variable interest rates ($19.3 million relates to the acquisition of the Rotunda property, and $11.8 million relates to the Damascus Center redevelopment project). These mortgages are being repaid over periods (amortization schedules) that are longer than the terms of the mortgages. Accordingly, when the mortgages become due (at various times) significant balloon payments (the unpaid principal amounts) will be required. FREIT expects to refinance the individual mortgages with new mortgages when their terms expire. To this extent we have exposure to capital availability and interest rate risk. If interest rates, at the time any individual mortgage note is due, are higher than the current fixed interest rate, higher debt service may be required and/or refinancing proceeds may be less than the amount of the mortgage debt being retired. The $22.5 million mortgage loan entered into by Grande Rotunda, LLC for the acquisition of the Rotunda was scheduled to come due on July 19, 2009, and was extended by the bank until February 1, 2010. On February 1, 2010, a principal payment of $3 million was made reducing the original loan amount of $22.5 million to $19.5 million and the due date was extended until February 1, 2013. As part of the terms of the loan extension agreement, the loan is further collateralized by a first mortgage lien and the assignment of the ground lease on FREIT’s Rochelle Park, NJ land parcel. Under the restructured terms, the interest rate is now 350 basis points above the BBA LIBOR with a floor of 4%, and monthly principal payments of $10,000 are required. An additional principal payment may be required on February 1, 2012 in an amount necessary to reduce the loan to achieve a stipulated debt service coverage ratio. FREIT believes that its debt service coverage ratio will meet the stipulated requirements, and, therefore, anticipates no additional principal payments will be required. Under the agreement with the equity owners of Grande Rotunda, LLC, FREIT would be responsible for 60% of any cash required by Grande Rotunda, LLC, and 40% would be the responsibility of the minority interest. To the extent we are unable to refinance our indebtedness on acceptable terms, we may need to dispose of one or more of our properties upon disadvantageous terms.

Our revolving $18 million credit line (of which $18 million was available as of October 31, 2011), our Grande Rotunda acquisition mortgage loan, and our Damascus Center construction loan contain financial covenants that could restrict our acquisition activities and result in a default on these loans if we fail to satisfy these covenants.

Failure of banking and financing institutions: Banking and financing institutions such as insurance companies provide FREIT with credit lines and construction financing. The credit lines available to FREIT may be used for a variety of business purposes, including general corporate purposes, acquisitions, construction, letters of credit, etc. Construction financing enables FREIT to develop new properties, or renovate or expand existing properties. A failure of the banking institution making credit lines available may render the line unavailable and adversely affect FREIT’s liquidity, and negatively impact our operations in a number of ways. A failure of a financial institution unable to fund its construction financing obligations to FREIT may cause the construction to halt or be delayed. Substitute financing may be significantly more expensive, and construction delays may subject FREIT to delivery penalties.

Failure of insurance carriers: FREIT’s properties are insured against unforeseen liability claims, property damages, and other hazards. The insurance companies FREIT uses have good ratings at the time the policies are put into effect. Financial failure of our carriers may result in their inability to pay current and future claims. This inability to pay claims may have an adverse impact on FREIT’s financial condition. In addition, a failure of FREIT’s insurance carrier may cause FREIT’s insurance renewal or replacement policy costs to increase.

Real estate is a competitive business: FREIT is subject to normal competition with other investors to acquire real property and to profitably manage such property. Numerous other REITs, banks, insurance companies and pension funds, as well as corporate and individual developers and owners of real estate, compete with FREIT in seeking properties for acquisition and for tenants. Many of these competitors have significantly greater financial resources than FREIT. In addition, retailers at FREIT's commercial properties face increasing competition from discount shopping centers, outlet malls, sales through catalogue offerings, discount shopping clubs, marketing and shopping through cable and computer sources, particularly over the internet, and telemarketing. In many markets, the trade areas of FREIT's commercial properties overlap with the trade areas of other shopping centers. Renovations and expansions at those competing shopping centers and malls could negatively affect FREIT's commercial properties by encouraging shoppers to make their purchases at such new, expanded or renovated shopping centers and malls. Increased competition through these various sources could adversely affect the viability of FREIT's tenants, and any new commercial real estate competition developed in the future could potentially have an adverse effect on the revenues of and earnings from FREIT's commercial properties.

Illiquidity of real estate investment: Real estate investments are relatively difficult to buy and sell quickly. Accordingly, the ability of FREIT to vary its portfolio in response to changing economic, market or other conditions is limited. Also, FREIT’s interests in its partially owned subsidiaries are subject to transfer constraints by the operating agreements that govern FREIT’s investment in these partially owned subsidiaries.

Environmental problems may be costly: Both federal and state governments are concerned with the impact of real estate construction and development programs upon the environment. Environmental legislation affects the cost of selling real estate, the cost to develop real estate, and the risks associated with purchasing real estate.

Under various federal, state and local environmental laws, statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations, an owner of real property may be liable for the costs of removal or remediation of certain hazardous or toxic substances at, on, in or under such property, as well as certain other potential costs relating to hazardous or toxic substances (including government fines and penalties and damages for injuries to persons and adjacent property). Such laws often impose such liability without regard to whether the owners knew of, or were responsible for, the presence or disposal of such substances. Such liability may be imposed on the owner in connection with the activities of any operator of, or tenant at the property. The cost of any required remediation, removal, fines or personal injury or property damages and the property owner's liability therefore could exceed the value of the property and/or the aggregate assets of the owner. In addition, the presence of such substances, or the failure to properly dispose of or remediate such substances, may adversely affect the owner's ability to sell or rent such property or to borrow using such property as collateral. If FREIT incurred any such liability, it could reduce FREIT's revenues and ability to make distributions to its shareholders.

A property can also be negatively impacted by either physical contamination or by virtue of an adverse effect upon value attributable to the migration of hazardous or toxic substances, or other contaminants that have or may have emanated from other properties.

Qualification as a REIT: Since its inception in 1961, FREIT has elected to qualify as a REIT for federal income tax purposes, and will continue to operate so as to qualify as a REIT. In order to qualify as a REIT, we must satisfy a number of highly technical and complex provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Governmental legislation, new regulations, and administrative interpretations may significantly change the tax laws with respect to the requirements for qualification as a REIT, or the federal income tax consequences of qualifying as a REIT. Although FREIT intends to continue to operate in a manner to allow it to qualify as a REIT, future economic, market, legal, tax or other considerations may cause it to revoke the REIT election or fail to qualify as a REIT. Such a revocation would subject FREIT’s income to federal income tax at regular corporate rates, and failure to qualify as a REIT would also eliminate the requirement that we pay dividends to our shareholders.

Change of investment and operating policies: FREIT’s investment and operating policies, including indebtedness and dividends, are exclusively determined by FREIT’s Board of Trustees, and not subject to shareholder approval.

None.

Portfolio of Investments: The following tables set forth certain information relating to each of FREIT's real estate investments in addition to the specific mortgages encumbering the properties.  

(1) Security for draws against FREIT's Credit Line  

(2) On August 6, 2009, FREIT refinanced the mortgage loans secured by its Berdan Court apartment property in Wayne, NJ, with a new mortgage for approximately $20 million, due in 2019. The refinanced mortgages had outstanding principal balances that aggregated approximately $12.3 million at a weighted average interest rate of 6.7%, and were due January 1, 2010. 

(3) FREIT owns a 40% equity interest in Westwood Hills. See "Investment in Subsidiaries"  

(4) Pierre Towers is 100% owned by S And A Commercial Associates LP, which is 65% owned by FREIT  

(5) Construction completed in August 2006 on land acquired in 1963 / 1964  

(6) On October 20, 2010, Westwood Hills, LLC refinanced the mortgage loans secured by its Westwood Hills apartment property in Westwood, NJ, with a new mortgage for $23.5 million. The refinanced mortgages had outstanding principal balances that aggregated approximately $15.4 million at a weighted average interest rate of 6.6%, and were due December 31, 2013. The new mortgage is payable in monthly installments of $120,752 including interest of 4.62%, and is due November 1, 2020. 

(1) Security for draws against FREIT's Credit Line  

(2) The original 33,000 sq. ft. shopping center was replaced with a new 87,041 sq. ft. center that opened in October 1997  

(3) FREIT owns a 100% interest in WestFREIT Corp, that owns the center  

(4) FREIT owns a 40% equity interest in WaynePSC, that owns the center  

(5) FREIT owns a 70% equity interest in Damascus Centre, LLC, that owns the center. Undergoing a renovation and expansion project

(6) FREIT owns a 60% equity interest in Grande Rotunda, LLC, that owns the center  

(7) On February 29, 2008, unpaid principal amount of $5.9 million was refinanced with a $6 million mortgage loan bearing fixed interest rate of 6.125%, with a 10 year term

(8) On February 12, 2008, Damascus Centre, LLC closed on a $27.3 million construction loan, of which $11.8 million was drawn down at 10/31/11. As a result of a reevaluation of the future funding needs for this project, on May 6, 2010, Damascus Centre, LLC reduced the amount of the construction loan facility to $21.3 million

(9) Security for Rotunda $19.5 million acquisition loan  

(10) Giant supermarket, which leases 55,330 sq ft, elected not to extend their lease as of November 1, 2011    

Supplemental Segment Information:

Land Under Development and Vacant Land as of October 31, 2011:

FREIT believes that it has a diversified portfolio of residential and commercial properties. FREIT’s business is not materially dependent upon any single tenant or any one of its properties.

FREIT has no properties that have contributed 15% or more of FREIT’s total revenue in one (1) or more of the last three (3) fiscal years.

Although FREIT’s general investment policy is to hold properties as long-term investments, FREIT could selectively sell certain properties if it determines that any such sale is in FREIT’s and its shareholders’ best interests. See “Business-Planned Disposition” under Item 1 above. With respect to FREIT’s future acquisition and development activities, FREIT will evaluate various real estate opportunities, which FREIT believes would increase FREIT’s revenues and earnings, as well as complement and increase the overall value of FREIT’s existing investment portfolio.

Except for the Pathmark supermarket located in Patchogue, Long Island, the TD Bank branch located in Rockaway, NJ and the Pascack Community Bank branch located on our land in Rochelle Park, NJ, all of FREIT’s and its subsidiaries’ commercial properties have multiple tenants.

FREIT and its subsidiaries’ commercial properties have seventeen (17) anchor/major tenants, which account for approximately 59% of the space leased. The balance of the space is leased to one hundred and sixty six (166) satellite and office tenants. The following table lists the anchor / major tenants at each center and the number of satellite tenants:  

With respect to most of FREIT’s commercial properties, lease terms range from five (5) years to twenty-five (25) years with options, which if exercised would extend the terms of such leases. The lease agreements generally provide for reimbursement of real estate taxes, maintenance, insurance and certain other operating expenses of the properties. During the last three (3) completed fiscal years, FREIT’s commercial properties averaged an 89.6% “economic” occupancy rate (based upon the payment of rent for leased space) with respect to FREIT’s available leasable space. For Fiscal 2011, the economic occupancy rate was 89.6%, while the actual “physical” occupancy rate (based upon possession and use of leased space) was 87.9%. The difference between economic and physical occupancy for Fiscal 2011 was primarily attributable to the vacancy created at Westridge resulting from Giant vacating its premises in May 2011, while continuing to pay rent in accordance with its lease through the expiration of the lease on October 31, 2011.

Leases for FREIT’s apartment buildings and complexes are usually one (1) year in duration. Even though the residential units are leased on a short-term basis, FREIT has averaged, during the last three (3) completed fiscal years, a 94.1% occupancy rate with respect to FREIT’s available apartment units.

FREIT does not believe that any seasonal factors materially affect FREIT’s business operations and the leasing of its commercial and apartment properties.

FREIT believes that its properties are covered by adequate fire and property insurance provided by reputable companies and with commercially reasonable deductibles and limits. 

There are no material pending legal proceedings to which FREIT is a party, or of which any of its properties is the subject. There is, however, ordinary and routine litigation involving FREIT's business including various tenancy and related matters. Notwithstanding the environmental conditions disclosed in “Item 1(c) Narrative Description of Business - Impact of Governmental Laws and Regulations on Registrant’s Business; Environmental Matters,” there are no legal proceedings concerning environmental issues with respect to any property owned by FREIT.

PART II

Shares of Beneficial Interest

Beneficial interests in FREIT are represented by shares without par value (the “Shares”). The Shares represent FREIT’s only authorized issued and outstanding class of equity. As of January 13, 2012, there were approximately 500 holders of record of the Shares.

The Shares are traded in the over-the-counter market through use of the OTC Bulletin Board Service (the “OTC Bulletin Board”) provided by FINRA, Inc. FREIT does not believe that an active United States public trading market exists for the Shares since historically only small volumes of the Shares are traded on a sporadic basis. The following table sets forth, at the end of the periods indicated, the Bid and Asked quotations for the Shares on the OTC Bulletin Board.

The bid quotations set forth above for the Shares reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, markdown or commission and may not necessarily represent actual transactions. The source of the bid and asked quotations is Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC members of the New York Stock Exchange and other national securities exchanges.

Dividends

The holders of Shares are entitled to receive distributions as may be declared by FREIT’s Board of Trustees. Dividends may be declared from time to time by the Board of Trustees and may be paid in cash, property, or Shares. The Board of Trustees’ present policy is to distribute annually at least ninety percent (90%) of FREIT’s REIT taxable income as dividends to the holders of Shares in order to qualify as a REIT for Federal income tax purposes. Distributions are made on a quarterly basis. In Fiscal 2011 and Fiscal 2010, FREIT paid or declared aggregate total dividends of $1.20 and $1.20 per share, respectively, to the holders of Shares. See Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Distributions to Shareholders.”

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

See Item 12, “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.”

The selected consolidated financial data for FREIT for each of the five (5) fiscal years in the period ended October 31, 2011 are derived from financial statements herein or previously filed financial statements. This data should be read in conjunction with Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of this Annual Report and with FREIT’s consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this Annual Report. 

* In 2010, includes $2.1 million prepayment penalty on early debt extinguishment.

** Includes gain on disposal of $3,680 in fiscal year 2007.

OVERVIEW

FREIT is an equity real estate investment trust ("REIT") that is self-administered and externally managed. FREIT owns a portfolio of residential apartment and commercial properties. Our revenues consist primarily of fixed rental income from our residential and commercial properties and additional rent in the form of expense reimbursements derived from our income producing commercial properties. Our properties are primarily located in northern New Jersey and Maryland. We acquire existing properties for investment. We also acquire properties, which we feel have redevelopment potential, and make changes and capital improvements to these properties. We develop and construct properties on our vacant land. Our policy is to acquire and develop real property for long-term investment.

The economic and financial environment: Although the U.S. economy has recovered from the recession, the rate of recovery has been much slower than anticipated. Forecasts for economic growth and job gains over the next year have been downsized, due in large part to the recent turbulence in the US and global markets. While bank earnings and liquidity are on the rebound, the potential of significant future credit losses clouds the lending outlook. Credit availability has improved, but still lags pre-recession levels, hampering business expansion and new development activities.

Residential Properties: Occupancy and rental rates in our areas of operation are on the up swing, reversing a year-long downward movement, and reflecting the increasing preference towards rental housing. The speed of recovery at our residential properties will likely mirror job growth and reduced unemployment in our areas of operation.

Commercial Properties: The retail outlook, while still challenged, has shown improvement over the past year, although due to the lag in job growth, consumers are still nervous about their jobs and remain frugal with their discretionary spending. Tenant fall-out and rent reductions are expected to abate. However, re-leasing of vacated space will be challenging and at rates below pre-recession levels.

Development Projects and Capital Expenditures: We continue to make only those capital expenditures that are absolutely necessary. As of November 2011, the expansion and renovation of the Damascus Center was completed. No date has been determined for the commencement of construction at our Rotunda and South Brunswick projects.

Debt Financing Availability: The dislocations in the credit markets have caused significant price volatility and liquidity disruptions. High pricing spreads and very conservative debt service ratio requirements have made certain financing unattractive and, in certain instances, unavailable. Additionally, construction financing for large, mixed use projects is virtually unavailable, or too costly. As a result of this difficult financing environment and reduced end user demand (see above), FREIT placed the Rotunda redevelopment activity on hold during the fourth quarter of FREIT’s 2008 fiscal year. The delay notwithstanding, at this time, FREIT intends to resume the redevelopment of the Rotunda as planned, upon improvement in the economic and financing climate. To that end, FREIT has had, from time to time, ongoing discussions with potential sources of financing and potential major national and local tenants.

Operating Cash Flow and Dividend Distributions: We expect that cash provided by net operating income will be adequate to cover mandatory debt service payments, necessary capital improvements and dividends necessary to retain qualification as a REIT (90% of taxable income). It is FREIT’s intention to maintain its quarterly dividend at $.30 per share until the economic climate indicates a change is appropriate, but not less than the level required to maintain its REIT status for Federal income tax purposes.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Pursuant to the SEC disclosure guidance for "Critical Accounting Policies," the SEC defines Critical Accounting Policies as those that require the application of management's most difficult, subjective, or complex judgments, often because of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain and may change in subsequent periods.

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, the preparation of which takes into account estimates based on judgments and assumptions that affect certain amounts and disclosures. Accordingly, actual results could differ from these estimates. The accounting policies and estimates used, which are outlined in Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements which is presented elsewhere in this Form 10-K, have been applied consistently as at October 31, 2011 and October 31, 2010, and for the years ended October 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. We believe that the following accounting policies or estimates require the application of management's most difficult, subjective, or complex judgments:

Revenue Recognition: Base rents, additional rents based on tenants' sales volume and reimbursement of the tenants' share of certain operating expenses are generally recognized when due from tenants. The straight-line basis is used to recognize base rents under leases if they provide for varying rents over the lease terms. Straight-line rents represent unbilled rents receivable to the extent straight-line rents exceed current rents billed in accordance with lease agreements. Before FREIT can recognize revenue, it is required to assess, among other things, its collectibility.

Valuation of Long-Lived Assets: We periodically assess the carrying value of long-lived assets whenever we determine that events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. When FREIT determines that the carrying value of long-lived assets may be impaired, the measurement of any impairment is based on a projected discounted cash flow method determined by FREIT's management. While we believe that our discounted cash flow methods are reasonable, different assumptions regarding such cash flows may significantly affect the measurement of impairment.

Real Estate Development Costs: It is FREIT’s policy to capitalize pre-development costs, which generally include legal and professional fees and other directly related third-party costs. Real estate taxes and interest costs incurred during the development and construction phases are also capitalized. FREIT ceases capitalization of these costs, when the project or portion thereof becomes operational, or when construction has been postponed. Capitalization of these costs will recommence once construction on the project resumes.

Adopted and recently issued accounting standards:

In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2011-10, “Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Derecognition of in Substance Real Estate-a Scope Clarification”. The purpose of this update is to resolve the diversity in practice about whether the guidance under FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Subtopic 360-20, “Property, Plant, and Equipment-Real Estate Sales”, applies to a parent that ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary, as specified under ASC Subtopic 810-10, “Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – an amendment of ARB No. 51”, that is in substance real estate as a result of default on the subsidiary’s nonrecourse debt. The new guidance is intended to emphasize that accounting for such transactions “is based on their substance rather than their form”, specifically that the parent should only deconsolidate the real estate subsidiary when legal title to the real estate is transferred to the lender and the related nonrecourse debt has been extinguished. The standard takes effect for public companies during the annual and interim periods beginning on or after June 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our financial statements.

In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, “Presentation of Comprehensive Income”, which supersedes the presentation options in ASC Topic 220, “Reporting of Comprehensive Income”. The new standard provides guidance for the presentation of other comprehensive income (“OCI”) and its components in both the financial statements. The new guidance only affects the presentation of OCI, and not the components that must be reported in OCI. The standard takes effect for public companies during the interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our financial statements.

FREIT adopted ASC 810-10 (“Non-Controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – an amendment of ARB No. 51”) effective November 1, 2009, and as required, has retrospectively applied the presentation and disclosure requirements to prior years presented in this Form 10-K.

Results of Operations:

Fiscal Years Ended October 31, 2011 and 2010

Summary revenues and net income for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2011 (“Fiscal 2011”) and October 31, 2010 (“Fiscal 2010”) are as follows:

Total real estate revenue for Fiscal 2011 increased slightly to $44,057,000 compared to $44,053,000 for Fiscal 2010. Net income attributable to common equity (“Net Income-Common Equity”) for Fiscal 2011 was $5,378,000 ($0.77 per share basic) compared to $4,411,000 ($0.64 per share basic) for Fiscal 2010. Included in interest expense for Fiscal 2010 was a $2.1 million prepayment penalty related to the early extinguishment of debt and the subsequent debt refinancing at FREIT’s Westwood Hills property. The impact of the prepayment penalty on Net Income-Common Equity for Fiscal 2010 was $840,000 ($0.12 per share basic). The refinancing increased FREIT’s cash reserves by $2.2 million, reduced interest expense on the new loan from 6.6% (weighted-average) to 4.62%, and extended the maturity of the loan 7 years. (Refer to the segment disclosure below for a more detailed discussion on the financial performance of FREIT’s commercial and residential segments.)

The schedule below provides a detailed analysis of the major changes that impacted revenue and net income-common equity for Fiscal 2011 and 2010:

SEGMENT INFORMATION

The following table sets forth comparative operating data for FREIT’s real estate segments:

(1)Represents average “economic” occupancy (based upon the payment of rent for leased space), as opposed to “physical” occupancy (based upon possession and use of leased space). Actual physical occupancy would be 87.9% for Fiscal 2011. This decrease in physical occupancy as compared to economic occupancy is primarily attributable to a vacancy at Westridge. Giant elected not to renew its lease for 55,330 sq ft at Westridge and vacated the space during May, 2011, but continued paying rent through October 31, 2011. (See discussion under the caption “Commercial Segment” below.)

The above table details the comparative net operating income (“NOI”) for FREIT’s Commercial and Residential Segments, and reconciles the combined NOI to consolidated Net Income-Common Equity. NOI is based on operating revenue and expenses directly associated with the operations of the real estate properties, but excludes deferred rents (straight lining), lease amortization, depreciation, financing costs and other items. FREIT assesses and measures segment operating results based on NOI. NOI is not a measure of operating results or cash flow as measured by generally accepted accounting principles, and is not necessarily indicative of cash available to fund cash needs and should not be considered an alternative to cash flows as a measure of liquidity.

COMMERCIAL SEGMENT

FREIT’s commercial properties consist of ten (10) properties totaling approximately 1,139,000 sq. ft. of retail space and 138,000 sq. ft. of office space for Fiscal 2011. Seven (7) are multi-tenanted retail or office centers, and one is a single tenanted store. In addition, FREIT has two parcels of leased land, from which it receives rental income. One is from a tenant who has built and operates a bank branch on land FREIT owns in Rockaway, NJ. The other is from a tenant who has built and operates a bank branch on land FREIT owns in Rochelle Park, NJ.

As indicated in the table above under the caption “Segment Information”, total rental revenue and NOI from FREIT’s commercial segment for Fiscal 2011 decreased by 2.4% and 3.0%, respectively, as compared to Fiscal 2010. The primary reason for the decrease in revenue for Fiscal 2011 was lower expense reimbursements stemming from prior year common area maintenance adjustments recorded in Fiscal 2011, which also affected the reduction in NOI.

Although the U.S. economy has recovered from the recession, the rate of recovery has been much slower than anticipated. Forecasts for economic growth and job gains over the next year have been downsized, due in large part to the recent turbulence in the US and global markets. Retail sales over the past year have posted slight gains, although among retailers, results have been mixed. The biggest problem in our areas of operations continues to be unemployment, renewing consumers’ concerns about their jobs, resulting in a reluctance to increase spending. Exclusive of the Giant space that was vacated during May 2011 (see discussion below), tenant fall-out at our other properties has been minor, as average occupancy rates for Fiscal 2011 (exclusive of the Damascus Center, which is undergoing a major redevelopment project) decreased 0.2% from last year’s comparable period.

At Westridge Square, a major tenant, Giant, has elected not to extend its lease beyond October 31, 2011, and has vacated its space at the center during May 2011. However, Giant continued to pay monthly rent in accordance with its lease terms through October 31, 2011. FREIT is actively pursuing the re-leasing of the space vacated by Giant. It is FREIT’s intention to re-lease the space to a new tenant or tenants that will enhance the shopping experience at Westridge Square. However, the space will be vacant and no rent will be received from the space beginning on November 1, 2011 unless or until FREIT is able to re-lease the space, and it is occupied by a new tenant(s). Additionally, FREIT expects to incur leasing costs and tenant improvement costs associated with re-leasing the space. The vacancy will adversely affect FREIT’s operating results in fiscal 2012 depending upon the outcome and timing of FREIT’s re-leasing efforts for this space. The potential impact on FREIT’s per share earnings for Fiscal 2012 is estimated at approximately $0.10 per share assuming the vacant space is not leased for the entire year. Construction related to the expansion and renovation of the Damascus Center was completed in November 2011. We are currently in the negotiation process with potential tenants for the new, currently available space constructed in the final phase (Phase III) of this project.

DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES

The modernization and expansion project at the Damascus Center was completed in November 2011. Total construction costs, inclusive of tenant improvement costs, approximates $22.7 million. The building plans incorporated an expansion of retail space from 140,000 sq. ft. to approximately 150,000 sq. ft., anchored by a modern 58,000 sq. ft. Safeway supermarket. Construction was completed in three phases. Phase I began in June 2007, and was completed in June 2008, at a cost of approximately $6.2 million, of which $1.1 million related to tenant improvements. Phase II, which comprised the new Safeway supermarket, began in December 2008, and was completed in September 2009, at a cost of approximately $9.8 million. Phase III construction which began in June 2011, was substantially complete as of October 31, 2011, and was completed in November 2011, at a cost of approximately $6.4 million. Additional tenant fit-up costs are expected, once the new space is leased and occupied. Total construction costs were funded from a $27.3 million construction loan entered into on February 12, 2008. As a result of a reevaluation of the future funding needs for this project, on May 6, 2010, Damascus Centre, LLC reduced the amount of the construction loan facility to $21.3 million. The construction loan is secured by the shopping center owned by Damascus Centre, LLC. This loan was drawn upon as needed to fund construction costs at the Damascus Center. Because of this expansion, leases for certain tenants were allowed to expire and were not renewed. This has caused occupancy to decline, on a temporary basis, during the construction phase. However, with the completion of each of the three phases, certain tenant leases have been renewed and occupancy is beginning to increase.

Development plans and studies for the expansion and renovation of our Rotunda property in Baltimore, MD (owned by our 60% owned affiliate Grande Rotunda, LLC) were substantially completed during Fiscal 2008. The Rotunda property, on an 11.5-acre site, currently consists of an office building containing 138,000 sq. ft. of office space and 78,000 sq. ft. of retail space on the lower floor of the main building. The building plans incorporate an expansion of approximately 180,500 sq. ft. of retail space, approximately 302 residential rental apartments, 56 condominium units and 120 hotel rooms, and structured parking. Development costs for this project are expected to approximate $200 million. City Planning Board approval has been received. As of October 31, 2011, we have incurred approximately $7.5 million for planning and feasibility studies, which have been capitalized in Construction in Progress (“CIP”). Due to the difficult economic environment, FREIT placed the Rotunda redevelopment activity on hold during the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2008. The delay notwithstanding, at this time, FREIT currently intends, upon improvement in the economic and financing climate, to resume the redevelopment of the Rotunda as planned. To that end, FREIT has had, from time to time, ongoing discussions with potential sources of financing and potential major national and local tenants.

RESIDENTIAL SEGMENT

FREIT operates nine (9) multi-family apartment communities totaling 1,075 apartment units. As indicated in the table above, total rental revenue and NOI from FREIT’s residential segment for Fiscal 2011 reflected increases of 3.1% and 9.0%, respectively, over Fiscal 2010. The increase in total revenue and NOI for Fiscal 2011 is primarily attributable to higher base rental income at many of our residential properties, overall lower operating costs for the current year, and a $235,000 insurance recovery relating to storm damages incurred and expensed last year at FREIT’s Pierre Towers apartment complex. The insurance recovery has been recorded as an offset within operating expenses. The positive operating results for Fiscal 2011 reflect the upward movement of occupancy levels, as evidenced by average occupancy increasing 0.9% as compared to Fiscal 2010.

Our residential revenue is principally composed of monthly apartment rental income. Total rental income is a function of occupancy and monthly apartment rents. Monthly average residential rents at the end of Fiscal 2011 and Fiscal 2010 period were $1,577 and $1,551, respectively. A 1% decline in annual average occupancy, or a 1% decline in average rents from current levels, results in an annual revenue decline of approximately $203,000 and $193,000, respectively.

FREIT continues to pursue the sale of the Palisades Manor Apartments, in Palisades Park, NJ, the Grandview Apartments in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, and the Heights Manor Apartments in Spring Lake Heights, NJ. The decision to pursue the sale of these properties was based on the Board’s desire to re-deploy the net proceeds arising from the sale to real estate assets in other areas of FREIT’s operations. It is not possible for management to estimate when a sale of any of these properties will occur, and therefore, the properties continue to be classified as held for use as of October 31, 2011.

Capital expenditures: Since all of our apartment communities, with the exception of The Boulders, were constructed more than 25 years ago, we tend to spend more in any given year on maintenance and capital improvements than may be spent on newer properties. Major renovation programs (apartment renovations and parking structure restoration) are underway at The Pierre. We have substantially completed modernizing, where required, all apartments and some of the building’s mechanical services. Through October 31, 2011, approximately $4.6 million was expended at The Pierre for these capital improvements, of which approximately $385,000 related to Fiscal 2011. The remaining apartments will be renovated as they become temporarily vacant at an estimated cost of $1 - $1.5 million. We are also in the planning stages of a major parking structure restoration project at The Pierre, which is expected to be completed within the next 2 years, at an expected cost of approximately $1.5 - $2.5 million. These costs are being financed from operating cash flow and cash reserves.

FINANCING COSTS

Financing costs are summarized as follows: 

Total financing costs for Fiscal 2011 decreased 15.6%, as compared to Fiscal 2010. The primary reason for the decrease was a $2.1 million prepayment penalty recorded in Fiscal 2010 (as discussed in footnote (2) above.).

INVESTMENT INCOME

Investment income for Fiscal 2011 decreased 17.2% to $101,000, as compared to the comparable prior year’s period. Investment income is principally derived from interest earned from cash on deposit in institutional money market funds and interest earned from secured loans receivable (loans made to Hekemian employees, including certain members of the immediate family of Robert S. Hekemian, FREIT CEO and Chairman of the Board, and Robert S. Hekemian, Jr., a trustee of FREIT, for their equity investment in Grande Rotunda, a limited liability company in which FREIT owns a 60% equity interest, and Damascus Centre, LLC, a limited liability company in which FREIT owns a 70% equity interest). The decrease in investment income was primarily attributable to lower interest income on the Company’s investments in cash and cash equivalents, and lower interest income relative to secured loans made to Hekemian employees in connection with the sale of equity interests in the Rotunda and the Damascus Center, due to lower interest rates.

GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES (“G & A”)

During Fiscal 2011, G & A was $1,543,000, as compared to $1,567,000 for the prior year’s period. The primary components of G&A are accounting fees, legal & professional fees and Trustees’ fees. The slight decrease for Fiscal 2011 was primarily attributable to decreased accounting fees, offset by an increase in office expense.

DEPRECIATION

Depreciation expense for Fiscal 2011 was $6,109,000, as compared to $6,053,000 for the prior year’s period. The increase was primarily attributable to current renovation and capitalized tenant improvements becoming operational in Fiscal 2011.

Results of Operations:

Fiscal Years Ended October 31, 2010 and 2009

Summary revenues and net income for Fiscal 2010 and the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009 (“Fiscal 2009”) are as follows:

Total real estate revenue for Fiscal 2010 increased 3.8% to $44,053,000 compared to $42,422,000 for Fiscal 2009. Net Income-Common Equity for Fiscal 2010 was $4,411,000 ($0.64 per share basic) compared to $5,552,000 ($0.80 per share basic) for Fiscal 2009. Included in interest expense for Fiscal 2010 was a $2.1 million prepayment penalty related to the early extinguishment of debt and the subsequent debt refinancing at FREIT’s Westwood Hills property. The impact of the prepayment penalty on Net Income-Common Equity for Fiscal 2010 is $840,000 ($0.12 per share basic). The refinancing increased FREIT’s cash reserves by $2.2 million, reduces interest expense on the new loan from 6.6% (weighted-average) to 4.62%, and extends the maturity of the loan 7 years. (Refer to the segment disclosure below for a more detailed discussion on the financial performance of FREIT’s commercial and residential segments.)

The schedule below provides a detailed analysis of the major changes that impacted revenue and net income-common equity for Fiscal 2010 and 2009:

SEGMENT INFORMATION

The following table sets forth comparative operating data for FREIT’s real estate segments:

The above table details the comparative NOI for FREIT’s Commercial and Residential Segments, and reconciles the combined NOI to consolidated Net Income-Common Equity. NOI is based on operating revenue and expenses directly associated with the operations of the real estate properties, but excludes deferred rents (straight lining), lease amortization, depreciation, financing costs and other items. FREIT assesses and measures segment operating results based on NOI. NOI is not a measure of operating results or cash flow as measured by generally accepted accounting principles, and is not necessarily indicative of cash available to fund cash needs and should not be considered an alternative to cash flows as a measure of liquidity.

COMMERCIAL SEGMENT

FREIT’s commercial properties consist of ten (10) properties totaling approximately 1,139,000 sq. ft. of retail space and 138,000 sq. ft. of office space for Fiscal 2010. Seven (7) are multi-tenanted retail or office centers, and one is a single tenanted store. In addition, FREIT has two parcels of leased land, from which it receives rental income. One is from a tenant who has built and operates a bank branch on land FREIT owns in Rockaway, NJ. The other is from a tenant who has built and operates a bank branch on land FREIT owns in Rochelle Park, NJ.

As indicated in the table above under the caption Segment Information, total rental revenue and NOI from FREIT’s commercial segment for Fiscal 2010 increased by 6.8% and 7.9%, respectively, over Fiscal 2009. The primary reasons for the increase in total revenue and NOI were higher base rental income, primarily at the Damascus Center, a $250,000 lease termination fee related to a tenant at the Rotunda shopping center, and a percentage rent payment of $123,000 relating to a tenant coming off of a percentage rent holiday.

The U.S. economy has recovered from the recession, but at a recovery rate much slower than anticipated. Retail sales over the past year have posted slight gains, although among retailers, results have been mixed. The biggest problem in our areas of operations continues to be unemployment, renewing consumers’ concerns about their jobs, resulting in reluctance to increase spending. To date, our tenant fall-out has been minor, as average occupancy rates (exclusive of the Damascus Center, which is undergoing a major redevelopment project) for Fiscal 2010 was at 94.4%, compared to 95.4% for the prior year’s period. As a result of the completion last year of Phases I and II of the renovation project at the Damascus Center, the average occupancy rate for the Damascus Center increased to 55.2% for Fiscal 2010, as compared to 44.2% for Fiscal 2009. However, we may experience additional fall-out if the pace of the economic recovery slows down any further, or stalls.

On July 7, 2010, FREIT’s Board of Trustees authorized management to pursue a sale of Westridge located in Frederick, Maryland. The decision to sell the property (acquired in 1992) was based on the Board’s desire to re-deploy the net proceeds or other consideration arising from the sale to real estate assets in other areas of FREIT’s operations. It is the intention of the Board to structure the sale as a like-kind exchange (Code Sec.1031), in order to defer the taxable income on the expected gain. The property is being actively marketed for sale. Due to current conditions in the commercial real estate market, it is not possible for management to estimate when a sale of the property will occur.

RESIDENTIAL SEGMENT

FREIT operates nine (9) multi-family apartment communities totaling 1,075 apartment units. As indicated in the table above, total rental revenue from FREIT’s residential segment for Fiscal 2010 reported a slight increase of 0.2% over Fiscal 2009, whereas NOI for Fiscal 2010 decreased by 4.5% from last year’s comparable period. Despite the increase in total revenue, higher than normal unemployment in our areas of operation over the past year, compounded by losses approximating $260,000 resulting from storm damage costs at the Pierre Towers apartment complex, and overall higher operating costs, particularly utility costs caused by the colder winter this year were the primary reasons for the decrease in NOI. The increase in total rental revenue for Fiscal 2010 reflects the upward movement of occupancy and rents during the current fiscal year, as evidenced by average occupancy for Fiscal 2010 increasing by 1.5%, over last year’s comparable period.

Our residential revenue is principally composed of monthly apartment rental income. Total rental income is a function of occupancy and monthly apartment rents. Monthly average residential rents at the end of Fiscal 2010 and Fiscal 2009 period were $1,551 and $1,526, respectively. A 1% decline in annual average occupancy, or a 1% decline in average rents from current levels, results in an annual revenue decline of approximately $200,000 and $187,000, respectively.

On October 20, 2010, Westwood Hills, LLC refinanced the mortgage loans secured by its Westwood Hills apartment property in Westwood, NJ, with a new mortgage for $23.5 million. The refinanced mortgages had outstanding principal balances that aggregated approximately $15.4 million at a weighted average interest rate of 6.6%, and were due December 31, 2013. The new mortgage bears interest at 4.62%, and is due November 1, 2020. Due to the early extinguishment of the original debt, prepayment penalties of $2.1 million were incurred, and reported as interest expense. After closing costs, FREIT netted approximately $5.6 million from this refinancing, of which $3.4 million was distributed to the noncontrolling interests of Westwood Hills, LLC. The refinancing increased FREIT’s cash reserves by $2.2 million, extends the maturity of the loan 7 years, and despite the increase in loan amount, the monthly debt service will decrease slightly as a result of the lower interest rate on the new loan.

Capital expenditures: Since all of our apartment communities, with the exception of The Boulders, were constructed more than 25 years ago, we tend to spend more in any given year on maintenance and capital improvements than may be spent on newer properties. A major renovation program is ongoing at The Pierre. We have substantially completed modernizing, where required, all apartments and some of the buildings’ mechanical services. This renovation is expected to cost approximately $4 - $6 million, and apartments were renovated as they became temporarily vacant. It is anticipated that this renovation will be completed within the next 12 months. These costs are being financed from operating cash flow and cash reserves. Through October 31, 2010, we expended approximately $4.2 million in capital improvements at The Pierre.

FINANCING COSTS

Financing costs are summarized as follows: 

Total financing costs before capitalized amounts for Fiscal 2010 increased 24.3%, over the prior year’s comparable period. This increase was primarily attributable to a $2.1 million prepayment penalty related to the early extinguishment of debt and the subsequent debt refinancing at the Company’s Westwood Hills property.

INVESTMENT INCOME

Investment income for Fiscal 2010 decreased 44.8% to $122,000, as compared to the comparable prior year’s period. Investment income is principally derived from interest earned from cash on deposit in institutional money market funds and interest earned from secured loans receivable (loans made to Hekemian employees, including certain members of the immediate family of Robert S. Hekemian, FREIT CEO and Chairman of the Board, and Robert S. Hekemian, Jr., a trustee of FREIT, for their equity investment in Grande Rotunda, a limited liability company in which FREIT owns a 60% equity interest, and Damascus Centre, LLC, a limited liability company in which FREIT owns a 70% equity interest). The decrease in investment income was primarily attributable to lower interest income on the Company’s investments in cash and cash equivalents, and lower interest income relative to secured loans made to Hekemian employees in connection with the sale of equity interests in the Rotunda and the Damascus Center, due to lower interest rates.

GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES (“G & A”)

During Fiscal 2010, G & A was $1,567,000, as compared to $1,652,000 for the prior year’s period. The decrease for Fiscal 2010 was primarily attributable to decreased office expense, as well as decreased legal and professional fees and expenditures incurred in Fiscal 2010, as compared to Fiscal 2009. In Fiscal 2009, FREIT settled certain litigation amounting to approximately $42,000.

DEPRECIATION

Depreciation expense for Fiscal 2010 was $6,053,000, as compared to $5,870,000 for the prior year’s period. The increase was primarily attributable to current renovation and construction projects, specifically the Safeway portion of Phase II of construction at the Damascus Center, becoming operational in September 2009.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our financial condition remains strong. Net cash provided by operating activities was $14.8 million for Fiscal 2011 compared to $10.2 million for Fiscal 2010. We expect that cash provided by net operating income will be adequate to cover mandatory debt service payments, recurring capital improvements and dividends necessary to retain qualification as a REIT (90% of taxable income).

As at October 31, 2011, we had cash and marketable securities totaling $6.3 million compared to $6.8 million at October 31, 2010.

On October 20, 2010, Westwood Hills, LLC refinanced the mortgage loans secured by its Westwood Hills apartment property in Westwood, NJ, with a new mortgage for $23.5 million. The refinanced mortgages had outstanding principal balances that aggregated approximately $15.4 million at a weighted average interest rate of 6.6%, and were due December 31, 2013. The new mortgage bears interest at 4.62%, and is due November 1, 2020. Due to the early extinguishment of the original debt, prepayment penalties of $2.1 million were incurred. After closing costs, FREIT netted approximately $5.6 million from this refinancing, of which $3.4 million was distributed to the noncontrolling interests of Westwood Hills, LLC. This refinancing added $2.2 million to FREIT’s cash reserves, extended the maturity of the loan 7 years, and despite the increase in loan amount, the monthly debt service will decrease slightly as a result of the lower interest rate on the new loan.

The modernization and expansion project at the Damascus Center was completed in November 2011. Total construction costs, inclusive of tenant improvement costs, approximate $22.7 million. On February 12, 2008, Damascus Centre, LLC closed on a $27.3 million construction loan that was used to fund construction costs. As a result of a reevaluation of the future funding needs for this project, on May 6, 2010, Damascus Centre, LLC reduced the amount of the construction loan facility to $21.3 million. This loan has a term of forty-eight (48) months, with one twelve (12) month extension option. It is FREIT’s intent to exercise the option to extend the loan until February 12, 2013. FREIT has guaranteed 30% of the loan, and the minority interests, who have a 30% investment in Damascus Centre, LLC, have agreed to indemnify FREIT for their share of the guarantee. Draws against this loan bear interest at the BBA LIBOR daily floating rate plus 135 basis points. As of October 31, 2011, Damascus Centre, LLC drew down $11.8 million of this loan to cover construction costs. We expect this development project to add to revenues, income, cash flow, and shareholder value. (See discussion under Development Activities on page 25 for more detail regarding this redevelopment project.)

We are planning a major expansion at The Rotunda in Baltimore, MD that will require capital estimated at $200 million. We expect financing for the Rotunda expansion will be, for the most part, from mortgage financing. During Fiscal 2008, we substantially completed the planning and feasibility studies and expended approximately $7.5 million during this phase, which has been capitalized in CIP. Due to the difficult economic environment, that redevelopment activity was placed on hold by FREIT during the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2008. The delay notwithstanding, at this time, FREIT currently intends, upon improvement in the economic and financing climate, to resume the redevelopment of the Rotunda as planned. To that end, FREIT has had, from time to time, ongoing discussions with potential sources of financing and potential major national and local tenants.

As at October 31, 2011, FREIT’s aggregate outstanding mortgage debt was $203.3 million. This debt bears a weighted average interest rate of 5.35%. The mortgages, which have an average life of approximately 4.3 years, are subject to repayment (amortization) schedules that are longer than the term of the mortgages. As such, balloon payments for all mortgage debt will be required as follows:  

The $22.5 million mortgage loan entered into by Grande Rotunda, LLC for the acquisition of the Rotunda was scheduled to come due on July 19, 2009, and was extended by the bank until February 1, 2010. On February 1, 2010, a principal payment of $3 million was made reducing the original loan amount of $22.5 million to $19.5 million and the due date was extended until February 1, 2013. As part of the terms of the loan extension agreement, the loan is further collateralized by a first mortgage lien and the assignment of the ground lease on FREIT’s Rochelle Park, NJ land parcel. Under the restructured terms, the interest rate is now 350 basis points above the BBA LIBOR with a floor of 4%, and monthly principal payments of $10,000 are required. An additional principal payment may be required on February 1, 2012 in an amount necessary to reduce the loan to achieve a stipulated debt service coverage ratio. FREIT believes that its debt service coverage ratio will meet the stipulated requirements, and, therefore, anticipates no additional principal payments will be required. Under the agreement with the equity owners of Grande Rotunda, LLC, FREIT would be responsible for 60% of any cash required by Grande Rotunda, LLC, and 40% would be the responsibility of the minority interest.

The following table shows the estimated fair value and carrying value of our long-term debt at October 31, 2011 and 2010: 

Fair values are estimated based on market interest rates at the end of each fiscal year and on discounted cash flow analysis. Changes in assumptions or estimation methods may significantly affect these fair value estimates.

FREIT expects to re-finance the individual mortgages with new mortgages when their terms expire. To this extent we have exposure to interest rate risk on our fixed rate debt obligations. If interest rates, at the time any individual mortgage note is due, are higher than the current fixed interest rate, higher debt service may be required, and/or re-financing proceeds may be less than the amount of mortgage debt being retired. For example, a 1% interest rate increase would reduce the fair value of our debt by $9.4 million, and a 1% decrease would increase the fair value by $10.0 million.

We believe that the values of our properties will be adequate to command re-financing proceeds equal to, or higher than, the mortgage debt to be re-financed. We continually review our debt levels to determine if additional debt can prudently be utilized for property acquisition additions to our real estate portfolio that will increase income and cash flow to shareholders.

Credit Line: FREIT has an $18 million line of credit provided by the Provident Bank. The line of credit is for a two year term ending in January 2014, but can be cancelled by the bank, at its will, within 60 days before or after each anniversary date. The credit line will automatically be extended at the termination date of the current term and each subsequent term for an additional period of 24 months, provided there is no default and the credit line has not been cancelled. Draws against the credit line can be used for general corporate purposes, for property acquisitions, construction activities, and letters of credit. Draws against the credit line are secured by mortgages on FREIT’s Franklin Crossing Shopping Center, Franklin Lakes, NJ, retail space in Glen Rock, NJ, Palisades Manor Apartments, Palisades Park, NJ, and Grandview Apartments, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ. Interest rates on draws will be set at the time of each draw for 30, 60, or 90-day periods, based on our choice of the prime rate or at 175 basis points over the 30, 60, or 90-day LIBOR rates at the time of the draws. The interest rate on the line of credit has a floor of 4%. As of October 31, 2011, $18 million is available under the line of credit, and no amount is outstanding.

FREIT’s Board of Trustees has authorized management to pursue the sale of the Palisades Manor Apartments and the Grandview Apartments, which currently secure draws on FREIT’s credit line. When or if an agreement for the sale of either or both of these properties is entered into, these properties will have to be released as collateral for the credit line, and substitute collateral may be required.

FREIT’s total contractual obligations under its mortgage loan and construction contracts are as follows:  

Funds From Operations (“FFO”)

Many consider FFO as the standard measurement of a REIT’s performance. We compute FFO as follows:

* Excludes $3,360,000 of distributions to noncontrolling interests arising from proceeds related to a mortgage refinancing.

FFO does not represent cash generated from operating activities in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and therefore should not be considered a substitute for net income as a measure of results of operations or for cash flow from operations as a measure of liquidity. Additionally, the application and calculation of FFO by certain other REITs may vary materially from that of FREIT’s, and therefore FREIT’s FFO and the FFO of other REITs may not be directly comparable.

Distributions to Shareholders

Since its inception in 1961, FREIT has elected to be treated as a REIT for Federal income tax purposes. In order to qualify as a REIT, we must satisfy a number of highly technical and complex operational requirements including that we must distribute to our shareholders at least 90% of our REIT taxable income. We anticipate making distributions to shareholders from operating cash flows, which are expected to increase from future growth in rental revenues. Although cash used to make distributions reduces amounts available for capital investment, we generally intend to distribute not less than the minimum of REIT taxable income necessary to satisfy the applicable REIT requirement as set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. With respect to the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003, the reduction of the tax rate on dividends does not apply to FREIT dividends. Since it is FREIT’s policy to pass on at least 90% of its taxable income to shareholders, FREIT’s taxable income is untaxed at the trust level. As a result, FREIT’s dividends will be taxed as ordinary income.

It has been our policy to pay fixed quarterly dividends for the first three quarters of each fiscal year, and a final fourth quarter dividend based on the fiscal year’s net income and taxable income. The following tables list the quarterly dividends declared for the three most recent fiscal years and the dividends as a percentage of taxable income for those periods.

INFLATION

Inflation can impact the financial performance of FREIT in various ways. Our commercial tenant leases normally provide that the tenants bear all or a portion of most operating expenses, which can reduce the impact of inflationary increases on FREIT. Apartment leases are normally for a one-year term, which may allow us to seek increased rents as leases renew or when new tenants are obtained.

See “Liquidity and Capital Resources” and “Segment Information” in Item 7 above.

The consolidated financial statements and supplementary data of FREIT are submitted as a separate section of this Form 10-K. See "Index to Consolidated Financial Statements" on page 39 of this Form 10-K.

None.

At the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of FREIT’s disclosure controls and procedures. This evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with participation of FREIT’s management, including FREIT’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, who concluded that FREIT’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective. There have been no significant changes in FREIT’s internal controls or in other factors, which could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date we carried out our evaluation.

Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in FREIT’s reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in FREIT’s reports filed under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including FREIT’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting — FREIT’s management, under the supervision of FREIT’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act). Management evaluated the effectiveness of FREIT’s 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 that evaluation, management has concluded that FREIT’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of October 31, 2011. EisnerAmper LLP, FREIT’s independent registered public accounting firm for Fiscal 2011, audited FREIT’s financial statements contained in this Form 10-K, and has issued the attestation report on FREIT’s internal control over financial reporting provided on the following page.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting — FREIT’s management, with the participation of FREIT’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated whether any change in FREIT’s internal control over financial reporting occurred during the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2011. Based on that evaluation, management concluded that there has been no change in FREIT’s internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2011 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, FREIT’s internal control over financial reporting.

None.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Trustees and Shareholders

First Real Estate Investment Trust of New Jersey and Subsidiaries

We have audited First Real Estate Investment Trust of New Jersey and Subsidiaries’ (“FREIT”) internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. FREIT’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 Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on FREIT’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 (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) 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 (iii) 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, FREIT maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of FREIT as of October 31, 2011 and 2010, and the related consolidated statements of income, equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended October 31, 2011 and the financial statement schedule listed in the index at item 15(c), and our report dated January 13, 2012 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements and the financial statement schedule.

/s/ EisnerAmper LLP

New York, New York

January 13, 2012

PART III

Certain information required by Part III is incorporated by reference to FREIT's definitive proxy statement (the "Proxy Statement") to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than 120 days after the end of FREIT's fiscal year covered by this Annual Report. Only those sections of the Proxy Statement that specifically address the items set forth in this Annual Report are incorporated by reference from the Proxy Statement into this Annual Report.

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the sections titled "Election of Trustees" and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" in FREIT's Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting to be held in April 2012. 

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section titled “Executive Compensation" in FREIT's Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting to be held in April 2012.

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section titled "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" in FREIT's Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting to be held in April 2012. 

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference to the section titled "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions; Director Independence" in FREIT's Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting to be held in April 2012.

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the sections titled “Audit Fees,” “Audit-Related Fees,” “Tax Fees” and “All Other Fees” contained in FREIT’s Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting to be held in April 2012.

PART IV