Summary
Health Care REIT, Inc. (WELL) reported its first-quarter financial results for the period ending March 31, 2003. The company saw a significant increase in rental income, up 42% year-over-year, driven by property acquisitions. This growth was partially offset by a decrease in interest income as mortgage loans were repaid. Overall, total revenues increased by 28% compared to the prior year's first quarter. Despite rising interest expenses and depreciation, the company's net income available to common stockholders grew to $16.5 million, or $0.41 per diluted share, from $12.5 million, or $0.37 per diluted share, in the same period last year. This improvement reflects strong operational performance and a reduction in preferred stock dividends due to the conversion of preferred shares to common stock. The company also maintained a healthy debt-to-capitalization ratio of 0.45:1, supported by a recently expanded credit facility and a shelf registration for future capital needs.
Key Highlights
- 1Rental income surged by 42% to $40.8 million for the quarter, indicating successful property acquisitions and portfolio expansion.
- 2Net income available to common stockholders increased by 31.5% to $16.45 million, with diluted EPS rising to $0.41 from $0.37 year-over-year.
- 3Total assets grew to $1.64 billion as of March 31, 2003, up from $1.59 billion at the end of 2002, primarily due to increases in real estate investments.
- 4The company secured $100 million in new unsecured senior notes in March 2003, adding to its existing debt facilities and strengthening its liquidity.
- 5Borrowings under unsecured lines of credit decreased to $74.1 million from $109.5 million, reflecting successful refinancing efforts.
- 6The company reported contingent liabilities related to industrial revenue bonds and project financing, totaling approximately $7.8 million.
- 7Significant events include the sale of one assisted living facility for a gain of $34,000 and ongoing proceedings with Alterra Healthcare Corporation, a major tenant, which filed for Chapter 11 but plans to assume its master lease.