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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - REIT (Policies)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2019
Use of Estimates Use of Estimates—The preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management used significant estimates to determine the estimated useful lives of tangible assets, as well as in the assessment of tangible and intangible assets for impairment and estimated liabilities for insurance reserves and income taxes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents—The Company considers all cash on hand, demand deposits with financial institutions, credit card receivables, and short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The Company has deposits in excess of $250,000 with financial institutions that are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The Company does not believe cash and cash equivalents expose it to significant credit risk.
Property Acquisitions Property Acquisitions—Identifiable net assets and liabilities acquired in an asset acquisition are recorded at cost, allocated based on their relative fair values on the date of acquisition. Identifiable net assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination are recorded based on their fair value on the date of acquisition. The fair value of acquired land, site improvements, building and improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are determined on an “if-vacant” basis considering a variety of factors, including the physical condition and quality of the hotels, estimated rates and valuation assumptions consistent with current market conditions, independent appraisals and other relevant market data obtained in connection with the acquisition of the hotels. Results of operations of acquired hotel properties are included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations since their dates of acquisition.
Property and Equipment
Property and Equipment—Property and equipment additions are recorded at cost. Major improvements that extend the life or utility of property or equipment are capitalized and depreciated over a period equal to the shorter of the estimated useful life of the improvement or the remaining estimated useful life of the asset. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Depreciation and amortization are recorded on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives:
Hotel buildings
7–49 years
Hotel building improvements
4–39 years
Hotel site improvements
3–20 years
Hotel furniture, fixtures and equipment
2–10 years
Corporate furniture, fixtures equipment
3–15 years
Management assesses long-lived assets for potential impairment quarterly, as well as when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. The identification of events or changes in circumstances that indicate the carrying value of assets may not be recoverable requires judgment. The Company reviews for impairment indicators at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows based on quantitative, qualitative and certain industry-related factors. Quantitative factors include, but are not limited to, EBITDA, EBITDA margins and EBITDA multiples, and serve to screen assets with historical, current or projected operating cash flow losses or deterioration. Qualitative factors include a change in physical condition, regulatory environment or primary use, including the evaluation of the asset for disposition.
Recoverability of property and equipment is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of a hotel property or group of hotel properties to the estimated future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the hotel property or group of hotel properties. Impairment is recognized when estimated future undiscounted cash flows, including expected proceeds from disposition, are less than the carrying value of the hotel property or group of hotel properties. To the extent that a hotel property or group of hotel properties is impaired, the excess carrying amount over estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment charge. Fair value is determined based upon the discounted cash flows of the hotel property or group of hotel properties, bids, quoted market prices or independent appraisals, as considered necessary.
The estimation and evaluation of future cash flows, in particular the holding period for real estate assets and asset composition and/or concentration within real estate portfolios, relies on judgments and assumptions regarding holding period, current and future operating performance and current and future market conditions. It is possible that such judgments and/or estimates will change; if this occurs, the Company may recognize additional impairment charges or losses on sale in future periods reflecting either changes in estimate, circumstance or the estimated market value of assets (see Note 5).
Depreciation and amortization are recorded on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives:
Hotel buildings
7–49 years
Hotel building improvements
4–39 years
Hotel site improvements
3–20 years
Hotel furniture, fixtures and equipment
2–10 years
Management assesses long-lived assets for potential impairment quarterly, as well as when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. The identification of events or changes in circumstances that indicate the carrying value of assets may not be recoverable requires judgment. ESH REIT reviews for impairment indicators at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows based on quantitative, qualitative and certain industry-related factors. Quantitative factors include, but are not limited to, EBITDA, EBITDA margins and EBITDA multiples, and serve to screen assets or asset groups with historical, current or projected operating cash flow losses or deterioration. Qualitative factors include a change in physical condition, regulatory environment or primary use, including the evaluation of the asset or group of assets for disposition.
Recoverability of property and equipment is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of a hotel property or group of hotel properties (grouped under ESH REIT’s leases) to the estimated future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the hotel property or group of hotel properties. Impairment is recognized when estimated future undiscounted cash flows, including expected proceeds from disposition, are less than the carrying value of the hotel property or group of hotel properties. To the extent that a hotel property or group of hotel properties is impaired, the excess carrying amount over estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment charge. Fair value is determined based upon the discounted cash flows of the hotel property or group of hotel properties, bids, quoted market prices or independent appraisals, as considered necessary.
The estimation and evaluation of future cash flows, in particular the holding period for real estate assets and asset composition and/or concentration within real estate portfolios, relies on judgments and assumptions regarding holding period, current and future operating performance and current and future market conditions. It is possible that such judgments and/or estimates will change; if this occurs, ESH REIT may recognize additional impairment charges or losses on sale in future periods reflecting either changes in estimate, circumstance or the estimated market value of assets (see Note 5).
Intangible Assets Intangible Assets—Intangible assets include trademarks, corporate customer relationships and licenses related to certain internal-use software. Corporate customer relationships and software licenses are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives; the estimated useful life of customer relationships is 20 years, and the estimated useful life of software licenses is the remaining non-cancellable term of each respective contract. Trademarks and licenses related to software in process are not amortized. Finite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment quarterly and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment quarterly. The Company tests for impairment more frequently if events or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. At such time their classification as indefinite-lived intangible assets is reassessed. The Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets is less than its carrying amount.
Goodwill Goodwill—Goodwill represents the purchase price in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in conjunction with the acquisition of the Company's predecessor in 2010. The Company tests goodwill for impairment quarterly and more frequently if events or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. The Company has two reportable operating segments, owned hotels and franchise and management. There is no goodwill associated with our franchise and management segment. Management analyzes goodwill associated with all owned hotels when analyzing for potential impairment. The Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount.
Assets Held For Sale Assets Held For Sale—The Company classifies assets as held for sale when management commits to a formal plan to sell the assets, actively seeks a buyer for the assets and the consummation of a sale is considered probable and is expected within one year. The Company takes into consideration when determining whether the consummation of a sale is probable the following criteria: (i) whether a purchase and sale agreement has been executed, (ii) whether the buyer has a significant non-refundable deposit at risk and (iii) whether significant financing contingencies exist. Upon designating an asset as held for sale, the Company stops recognizing depreciation expense and records the asset at the lower of its carrying value, including allocable goodwill, or its estimated fair value less estimated costs to sell. Any such adjustment to the carrying value is recognized as an impairment charge.
Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations—The Company classifies hotel properties sold or held for sale as discontinued operations when the disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on its operations and financial results, which would require separate presentation on the consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations.
Deferred Financing Costs Deferred Financing Costs—Costs incurred in obtaining financing are amortized over the terms of the related loans on a straight-line basis, which approximates the effective interest method. Deferred financing costs are presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as a direct deduction of the carrying amount of the related debt liability, except those incurred under a revolving-debt arrangement, which are presented as a component of other assets. Upon repayment, or in conjunction with a material change in the terms of the underlying debt agreement, remaining unamortized costs are written off as a component of net interest expense. Amortization of deferred financing costs is also included as a component of net interest expense (see Note 7).
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Generated from Owned and Operated Hotels—Revenue generated from owned and operated hotels consists of room and other hotel revenues recognized when services are provided. When a reservation is made, the Company deems that the parties have approved a contract in accordance with customary business practices and are committed to perform their respective obligations. At such time, each party’s rights regarding the services to be transferred are identified, payment terms are specified, the contract has commercial substance and, in most instances, it is probable the Company will collect substantially all consideration to which it will be entitled in exchange for services.
Each room night consumed by a guest with a cancellable reservation represents a contract whereby the Company has a performance obligation to provide the room night at an agreed upon price. For cancellable reservations, the Company recognizes revenue as each performance obligation (i.e., each room night) is met. Such contract is renewed if the guest continues their stay. For room nights consumed by a guest with a non-cancellable reservation, the entire reservation period represents the contract term whereby the Company has a performance obligation to provide the room night or nights at an agreed upon price. For non-cancellable reservations, the Company recognizes revenue over the term of the performance period (i.e., the reservation period) as room nights are consumed. For these reservations, the room rate is typically fixed over the reservation period. The Company uses an output method based on performance completed to date (i.e., room nights consumed) to determine the amount of revenue it recognizes on a daily basis if the length of a non-cancellable reservation exceeds one night since consumption of room nights indicates when services are transferred to the guest. In certain instances, variable consideration may exist with respect to the transaction price, such as discounts, coupons and price concessions made upon guest checkout.
In evaluating its performance obligation, the Company bundles the obligation to provide the guest the room itself with other obligations (such as free WiFi, grab and go breakfast, access to on-site laundry facilities and parking), as the other obligations are not distinct and separable because the guest cannot benefit from the additional amenities without the consumed room night. The Company’s obligation to provide the additional items or services is not separately identifiable from the fundamental contractual obligation (i.e., providing the room and its contents). The Company has no performance obligations once a guest’s stay is complete.
Certain revenues are generated through third-party intermediaries or distribution channels (i.e., online travel agents). Regardless of the basis on which the Company is compensated (i.e., gross or net), the Company is responsible for fulfilling the promise to provide the hotel room and related services to the guest and retains inventory risk. Since the Company controls the inventory and services provided and because third party intermediaries are typically not contractually required to guarantee room night consumption, the Company is the principal in these transactions. As such, the Company is required to record revenue at an amount equal to the price charged to the guest (i.e., on a gross basis). Third-party intermediaries that pay the Company directly (i.e., on a net basis) typically charge the guest additional fees, blend the room offering with other offerings at amounts which are not allocable and may adjust the price without the Company’s approval. As such, the Company is unable to calculate the room rate charged to the guest. Since any estimate the Company would make has significant uncertainty that ultimately would not be resolved, despite its role as principal, in these instances the Company records revenue equal to the amount paid by the third-party intermediaries (i.e., the net amount).
Revenue Generated from Franchise and Management Fees—Revenue generated from franchise and management fees consists of the following:
•Franchise fees, which consist of an initial fee and an ongoing royalty fee based on a percentage of a hotel’s monthly revenue in exchange for the access to and use of the Company’s brand name and other intellectual property. Initial fees are deferred and recognized over the expected contract or customer life. Royalty fees are recognized over time as franchisees derive value from the license to use the intellectual property.
•Management fees, which consist of an ongoing base fee calculated as a percentage of a hotel’s monthly revenue in exchange for on-site hotel management services. Management fees are recognized over time as third-party hotel owners derive value from on-site personnel and related services.
•Other revenues from franchised and managed properties, which include the reimbursement of costs incurred on behalf of third-party owners on a direct and an indirect basis, as follows:
◦Direct costs incurred with respect to management and franchise agreements include on-site hotel personnel and incremental reservation and distribution costs for which the Company is reimbursed on a dollar-for-dollar basis. Since the Company employs the hotel personnel and has discretion over reservation and distribution costs, it is the principal with respect to these services and revenue is recognized on a gross basis.
◦Indirect costs incurred with respect to franchise agreements include costs associated with certain shared system-wide platforms (i.e., system services), such as marketing, technology infrastructure, central reservations, national sales and revenue management systems. The Company is reimbursed for indirect costs through a system service fee, or program fee, based on a percentage of a hotel’s monthly revenue. System service fees are recognized over time as franchisees derive value from the license to use these processes and systems. The Company has discretion over how it spends system service fees and is the principal with respect to these services. Revenue is recognized on a gross basis; expense is recognized as incurred. Over time, the Company manages system services to break-even, but the timing of system services fee revenues will typically not align with expenses incurred to operate the programs.
The promise to provide access to the Company’s intellectual property is combined with the promise to provide system services to form a single performance obligation since the promises generally accompany one another. Hotel management services form a single performance obligation. As noted above, each identified performance obligation is considered to be a series of services transferred over time. Revenue is recognized on an output method based on performance completed to date. The Company recognizes revenue in the amount to which it has a right to bill third parties under their respective franchise or management agreements, as it has a right to consideration in an amount that corresponds directly with the third parties’ hotel revenues. Franchise, management and system service fees are characterized as variable consideration and vary from period to period. In the event that fees include variables that extend beyond the current period, the Company uses the most likely amount method to determine the amount of revenue to record based on a reasonable revenue forecast for the applicable hotel. In most instances, the Company does not have constraining estimates, as third-party hotel revenues are typically available and obtained monthly.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Financial Instruments—U.S. GAAP establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy based upon observable and unobservable inputs for fair value measurement of financial instruments:
Level 1—Observable inputs, such as quoted prices in active markets at the measurement date for identical assets or liabilities
Level 2—Significant inputs that are observable, directly or indirectly, such as other quoted prices in markets that are not active or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability
Level 3—Significant unobservable inputs for which there is little to no market data and for which the Company makes its own assumptions about how market participants would price the asset or liability
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received when selling an asset or the price paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (i.e., exit price). In instances where inputs used to measure fair value fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety has been determined is based on the lowest-level input significant to the fair value measurement. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.
The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, certain other assets (deposits), accounts payable and accrued liabilities, term loans, senior notes, mandatorily redeemable preferred stock and revolving credit facilities. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, certain other assets, accounts payable and accrued liabilities and revolving credit facilities are representative of their fair values due to the short-term nature or frequent settlement of these instruments. The fair values of term loans, senior notes and mandatorily redeemable preferred stock are determined by comparing current borrowing rates and risk spreads offered in the market to the stated interest rates and spreads on the Company’s instruments or from quoted market prices, when available (see Note 7).
Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments—The Company from time to time uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to interest rate and commodity price risks. The Company’s primary objective in holding derivatives is to reduce the volatility of cash flows and earnings associated with changes in interest rates and commodity prices. The Company’s derivatives expose it to credit risk to the extent that counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the agreement. The Company seeks to mitigate such risks by limiting its counterparties to major financial institutions. In addition, the potential risk of loss with any one counterparty resulting from this type of credit risk is monitored. Management does not expect material losses as a result of defaults by counterparties. Derivative instruments, including derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, are recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value, unless the transactions qualify and are designated as normal purchases and sales. Changes in fair value are recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met (see Note 8). The Company does not enter into derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Investments
Investments—The Company consolidates a subsidiary when it has the ability to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the subsidiary. Judgment is required with respect to the consolidation of investments, including partnership and joint venture entities, in terms of the evaluation of control, including assessment of the importance of rights and privileges of the partners based on voting rights, as well as financial interests that are not controllable through voting interests. Third party equity interests in consolidated subsidiaries are presented as noncontrolling interests.
If a subsidiary, affiliate or other entity is a variable interest entity ("VIE"), it is subject to the consolidation framework specifically for VIEs. The Company considers an entity a VIE if equity investors own an interest therein that does not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or if such investors do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance
its activities without additional subordinated financial support. In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 810, Consolidations, the Company reviews subsidiaries and affiliates, as well as other entities, to determine if (i) they should be considered VIEs, and (ii) whether their consolidation determinations should change based on changes in their characteristics.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes—The Corporation’s taxable income includes the taxable income of its wholly-owned subsidiaries and distribution income related to its ownership of approximately 58% of ESH REIT. As a result, approximately 58% of ESH REIT’s distributions are subject to corporate income tax.
The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, the Company determines deferred tax assets and liabilities on the basis of the differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities by using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. ESH REIT’s deferred tax rates are adjusted to reflect expected future distributions and the deduction allowed upon distribution. The Corporation’s deferred tax assets and liabilities include the estimated impact of the future reversal of ESH REIT’s deferred tax assets and liabilities which affect future dividend income to be recognized by the Corporation upon distribution.
The Company recognizes deferred tax assets to the extent that it believes that these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies and results of recent operations. If the Company determines that it would be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, the Company would make an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes. The Company records uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740 on the basis of a two-step process in which (1) the Company determines whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits of the position, and (2) for those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the Company recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority.
ESH REIT has elected to be taxed as and expects to continue to qualify as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended (the “Code”). A REIT is a legal entity that holds real estate assets and is generally not subject to federal and state income taxes. In order to maintain qualification as a REIT, ESH REIT is required to distribute at least 90% of its taxable income, excluding capital gains, to its shareholders each year. In addition, ESH REIT must meet a number of complex organizational and operational requirements. If ESH REIT were to fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, it would be subject to federal income taxes at regular corporate rates and generally would be precluded from qualifying as a REIT for the subsequent four taxable years following the year during which it lost its REIT qualification. Even in qualifying as a REIT, ESH REIT may be subject to state and local taxes in certain jurisdictions, and is subject to federal income and excise taxes on undistributed income.
During the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, ESH REIT distributed approximately 100% of its taxable income and, as a result, incurred minimal current federal income tax. In the future, ESH REIT intends to distribute its taxable income to the extent necessary to optimize its tax efficiency including, but not limited to, maintaining its REIT status, while retaining sufficient capital for its ongoing needs. ESH REIT will incur federal and state income tax at statutory rates if its taxable income is not distributed. Accordingly, ESH REIT expects to distribute approximately 100% of its taxable income for the foreseeable future.
Foreign Currency Foreign Currency—The Company sold its three Extended Stay Canada-branded hotels in 2017. Prior to completion of the sale, the financial statements of the Company’s Canadian subsidiaries and its investments therein were maintained in their functional currency, the Canadian dollar, and their revenues and expenses were translated into U.S. dollars using the average exchange rate for the period. The assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries were translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date.
Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income—Comprehensive income includes net income and other comprehensive income, which consists of foreign currency translation adjustments and interest rate cash flow hedge adjustments. Comprehensive income is presented in the accompanying consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Foreign currency translation adjustments and interest rate cash flow hedge adjustments are presented as separate components of consolidated equity.
Equity-Based Compensation Equity-Based Compensation—The Corporation and ESH REIT each maintain a Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”), as amended and restated in 2015, approved by their shareholders. Under the LTIPs, the Corporation and ESH REIT may issue to eligible employees or directors equity-based awards in respect of Paired Shares with service, performance or market vesting conditions. The Company recognizes costs related to equity-based awards over their vesting periods. The issuing entity classifies equity-based awards granted in exchange for employee or director services as either equity awards or as liability awards. The classification of an award either as an equity award or a liability award is generally based upon cash settlement options. Equity awards are measured based on their fair value on the date of grant. Liability awards are re-measured to fair value each reporting period. The value of all awards is recognized over the requisite service period, which is the period during which an employee or director is required to provide services in exchange for the award (usually the vesting period). No compensation expense is recognized for awards for which employees or directors do not render the requisite services. All awards granted are classified as equity awards, except those equity-based awards issued by ESH REIT to its directors, which are classified as liability awards at the Corporation.
Segments Segments—The Company has two reportable operating segments based on the manner in which it evaluates its business: (i) owned hotels and (ii) franchise and management. The Company assesses the performance of these segments on an individual basis (see Note 9).
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
Fair Value Measurement—In August 2018, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which modifies the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements in Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement. The Company adopted this update on January 1, 2020. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Intangibles-Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software—In August 2018, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software and hosting arrangements that include an internal-use software license. The Company adopted this update on January 1, 2020, using a prospective transition method. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Compensation—Stock Compensation—In June 2018, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which expands the scope of Topic 718, Stock Compensation, to include share-based payments granted to non-employees in exchange for goods or services. The new guidance simplifies the accounting for share-based payments granted to non-employees for goods or services by aligning it with the accounting for share-based payments granted to employees, with certain exceptions. Under the new guidance, non-employee share-based payment awards included within the scope of Topic 718 will be measured at the grant-date fair value of the equity instruments. In addition, classification of non-employee share-based payment awards will be subject to the requirements of Topic 718 unless modified after the good has been delivered and/or the service has been rendered and any other conditions necessary to earn the right to benefit from the instruments have been satisfied. This approach will eliminate the requirement to reassess classification of such awards upon vesting. The Company adopted this update on January 1, 2019, using a retrospective method. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Comprehensive Income—In February 2018, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the TCJA. The Company adopted this update on January 1, 2019, using a retrospective method. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Goodwill—In January 2017, the FASB issued an accounting standards update in which the guidance on testing for goodwill was updated to eliminate Step 2 in the determination on whether goodwill should be considered impaired. Annual and/
or interim assessments are still required. The Company adopted this update on January 1, 2020, using a prospective transition method. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Financial Instruments—Credit Losses—In June 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which requires the measurement of an impairment allowance for certain financial assets based on a company’s current estimate of all contractual cash flows it does not expect to collect. The new standard will primarily impact the manner in which the Company estimates its allowance for uncollectible trade receivables. The standard requires the Company to measure its allowance for doubtful accounts based on current conditions, historical experience and reasonable and supportable forecasts for each pool of receivables with similar risk characteristics. The Company adopted this update on January 1, 2020, using a modified retrospective method. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements and had no effect on or impact to retained earnings.
Leases—ASC 842, Leases, introduced a lessee model that requires a right-of-use asset and lease obligation to be presented on the balance sheet for all leases, whether operating or financing. The Company adopted ASC 842 on January 1, 2019, using the modified retrospective approach with the Comparatives Under 840 Option, whereby the Company applied the standard at the beginning of the period of adoption and has presented financial information for periods prior to January 1, 2019 in accordance with prior guidance. Upon adoption, the Company elected practical expedients related to (i) the identification and classification of leases that commenced before the effective date, (ii) initial direct costs for leases that commenced before the effective date, (iii) the ability to use hindsight in evaluating lessee options to extend or terminate a lease or to purchase the underlying asset, (iv) land easements and (v) the evaluation of lease and non-lease components of a contract.

Adoption had no cumulative effect on retained earnings. Adoption resulted in the recognition of operating lease right-of-use assets of $7.1 million as of January 1, 2019, which included adjustments for accrued lease payments, above-market lease liabilities and lease incentives, and liabilities of $14.5 million. Finance lease right-of-use assets and liabilities recognized as of January 1, 2019, included preexisting assets and liabilities of $3.8 million and $3.4 million, respectively, related to capital leases accounted for under prior guidance.
Judgment was exercised in the application of ASC 842 with respect to the determination of whether a contract contains a lease. While the ability to control and direct the use of an identified asset indicates that the contract, or portion of a contract, is a lease, a counterparty’s substantive substitution rights typically provide evidence that a lessee does not control the asset. Judgment was also exercised with respect to the determination of the discount rate used to determine the present value of lease payments. In instances in which interest rates implicit in leases are not readily determinable, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate. The substantial majority of widely available market maturities and asset-specific risk spreads may not match the underlying contract and, as such, borrowing rates and risk spreads are estimated based on the contract’s term, the counterparty’s security and other characteristics of the identified asset.
ESH Hospitality, Inc.  
Use of Estimates Use of Estimates—The preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Management used significant estimates to determine the estimated useful lives of tangible assets, as well as in the assessment of tangible and intangible assets for impairment. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents—ESH REIT considers all cash on hand, demand deposits with financial institutions and short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. ESH REIT has deposits in excess of $250,000 with financial institutions that are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. ESH REIT does not believe cash and cash equivalents expose it to significant credit risk.
Property Acquisitions
Property Acquisitions—Identifiable net assets and liabilities acquired in an asset acquisition are recorded at cost, allocated based on their relative fair values on the date of acquisition. Identifiable net assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination are recorded based on their fair value on the date of acquisition. The fair value of acquired land, site improvements, building and improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are determined on an “if-vacant” basis considering a variety of factors, including the physical condition and quality of the hotels, estimated rates and valuation assumptions consistent with current market conditions, independent appraisals and other relevant market data obtained in connection with the acquisition of the hotels. Results of operations of acquired hotel properties are included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations since their dates of acquisition.
Property and Equipment—Property and equipment additions are recorded at cost. Major improvements that extend the life or utility of property or equipment are capitalized and depreciated over a period equal to the shorter of the estimated useful life of the improvement or the remaining estimated useful life of the asset. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Depreciation and amortization are recorded on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives:
Hotel buildings
7–49 years
Hotel building improvements
4–39 years
Hotel site improvements
3–20 years
Hotel furniture, fixtures and equipment
2–10 years
Management assesses long-lived assets for potential impairment quarterly, as well as when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. The identification of events or changes in circumstances that indicate the carrying value of assets may not be recoverable requires judgment. ESH REIT reviews for impairment indicators at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows based on quantitative, qualitative and certain industry-related factors. Quantitative factors include, but are not limited to, EBITDA, EBITDA margins and EBITDA multiples, and serve to screen assets or asset groups with historical, current or projected operating cash flow losses or deterioration. Qualitative factors include a change in physical condition, regulatory environment or primary use, including the evaluation of the asset or group of assets for disposition.
Recoverability of property and equipment is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of a hotel property or group of hotel properties (grouped under ESH REIT’s leases) to the estimated future undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the hotel property or group of hotel properties. Impairment is recognized when estimated future undiscounted cash flows, including expected proceeds from disposition, are less than the carrying value of the hotel property or group of hotel properties. To the extent that a hotel property or group of hotel properties is impaired, the excess carrying amount over estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment charge. Fair value is determined based upon the discounted cash flows of the hotel property or group of hotel properties, bids, quoted market prices or independent appraisals, as considered necessary.
The estimation and evaluation of future cash flows, in particular the holding period for real estate assets and asset composition and/or concentration within real estate portfolios, relies on judgments and assumptions regarding holding period, current and future operating performance and current and future market conditions. It is possible that such judgments and/or estimates will change; if this occurs, ESH REIT may recognize additional impairment charges or losses on sale in future periods reflecting either changes in estimate, circumstance or the estimated market value of assets (see Note 5).
Intangible Assets Intangible Assets—Intangible assets include licenses related to certain internal-use software. Licenses are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful life, which is the remaining non-cancellable term of each respective contract. Intangible assets are reviewed for impairment quarterly and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. ESH REIT tests for impairment more frequently if events or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of its reporting unit below its carrying amount.
Goodwill Goodwill—Goodwill represents the purchase price in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in conjunction with the acquisition of ESH REIT's predecessor in 2010. ESH REIT tests goodwill for impairment quarterly and more frequently if events or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. ESH REIT has one operating segment, which is its reporting unit; therefore, management analyzes goodwill associated with all hotels when analyzing for potential impairment. ESH REIT first assesses qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of its reporting unit is less than its carrying amount.
Assets Held For Sale Assets Held For Sale—ESH REIT classifies assets as held for sale when management commits to a formal plan to sell the assets, actively seeks a buyer for the assets and the consummation of a sale is considered probable and is expected within one year. ESH REIT takes into consideration when determining whether the consummation of a sale is probable the following criteria: (i) whether a purchase and sale agreement has been executed, (ii) whether the buyer has a significant non-refundable deposit at risk and (iii) whether significant financing contingencies exist. Upon designating an asset as held for sale, ESH REIT stops recognizing depreciation expense and records the asset at the lower of its carrying value, including allocable goodwill, or its estimated fair value less estimated costs to sell. Any such adjustment to the carrying value is recognized as an impairment charge.
Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations—ESH REIT classifies hotel properties sold or held for sale as discontinued operations when the disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on ESH REIT’s operations and financial results, which would require separate presentation on the consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations.
Deferred Financing Costs Deferred Financing Costs—Costs incurred in obtaining financing are amortized over the terms of the related loans on a straight-line basis, which approximates the effective interest method. Deferred financing costs are presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as a direct deduction of the carrying amount of the related debt liability, except those incurred under a revolving-debt arrangement, which are presented as a component of other assets. Upon repayment, or in conjunction with a material change in the terms of the underlying debt agreement, remaining unamortized costs are written off as a component of net interest expense. Amortization of deferred financing costs is also included as a component of net interest expense (see Note 7).
Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition—ESH REIT’s sole source of revenues is rental revenue derived from operating leases with subsidiaries of the Corporation (i.e., all revenues are generated from agreements with related parties (see Note 12)). Rental revenues are recorded on a straight-line basis as they are earned during the lease terms. Rents receivable from Extended Stay America, Inc. on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets represent monthly rental amounts contractually due. Deferred rents receivable from Extended Stay America, Inc. on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets represent the cumulative difference between straight-line rental revenues recognized and rental revenues contractually due. Lease rental payments received prior to rendering services are included in unearned rental revenues from Extended Stay America, Inc. on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Variable rental revenues, specifically percentage rental revenues related to hotel revenues of the Operating Lessees, are recognized when such amounts are fixed and determinable (i.e., only when percentage rental revenue thresholds have been achieved).
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Financial Instruments—U.S. GAAP establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy based upon observable and unobservable inputs for fair value measurement of financial instruments:
Level 1—Observable inputs, such as quoted prices in active markets at the measurement date for identical assets or liabilities
Level 2 —Significant inputs that are observable, directly or indirectly, such as other quoted prices in markets that are not active or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability
Level 3—Significant unobservable inputs for which there is little to no market data and for which ESH REIT makes its own assumptions about how market participants would price the asset or liability
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received when selling an asset or the price paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (i.e., exit price). In instances where inputs used to measure fair value fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety has been determined is based on the lowest-level input significant to the fair value measurement. ESH REIT’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.
ESH REIT’s financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, certain other assets (deposits), accounts payable and accrued liabilities, intercompany and term loans, senior notes and its revolving credit facility. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, certain other assets (deposits), accounts payable and accrued liabilities and ESH REIT’s revolving credit facility are representative of their fair values due to the short-term nature or frequent settlement of these instruments. The fair values of intercompany and term loans and senior notes are determined by comparing current borrowing rates and risk spreads offered in the market to the stated interest rates and spreads on ESH REIT’s instruments or from quoted market prices, when available (see Note 7).
Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments—ESH REIT from time to time uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to interest rate risks. ESH REIT’s primary objective in holding derivatives is to reduce the volatility of cash flows and earnings associated with changes in interest rates. ESH REIT’s derivatives expose it to credit risk to the extent that counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the agreement. ESH REIT seeks to mitigate such risks by limiting its counterparties to major financial institutions. In addition, the potential risk of loss with any one counterparty resulting from this type of credit risk is monitored. Management does not expect material losses as a result of defaults by counterparties. Derivative instruments, including derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, are recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized currently in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met (see Note 7). ESH REIT does not enter into derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Investments Investments—ESH REIT consolidates a subsidiary when it has the ability to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the subsidiary. Judgment is required with respect to the consolidation of investments, including partnership and joint venture entities, in terms of the evaluation of control, including assessment of the importance of rights and privileges of the partners based on voting rights, as well as financial interests that are not controllable through voting interests. If a subsidiary, affiliate or other entity is a variable interest entity ("VIE"), it is subject to the consolidation framework specifically for VIEs. ESH REIT considers an entity a VIE if equity investors own an interest therein that does not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or if such investors do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support. In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 810, Consolidations, ESH REIT reviews subsidiaries and affiliates, as well as other entities, to determine if (i) they should be considered VIEs, and (ii) whether their consolidation determinations should change based on changes in their characteristics.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes—ESH REIT accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, ESH REIT determines deferred tax assets and liabilities on the basis of the differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities by using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. ESH REIT’s deferred tax rates are adjusted to reflect expected future distributions and the deduction allowed upon distribution.
ESH REIT recognizes deferred tax assets to the extent that it believes that these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, ESH REIT considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies and results of recent operations. If ESH REIT determines that it would be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, ESH REIT would make an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes. ESH REIT records uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740 on the basis of a two-step process in which (1) ESH REIT determines whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits of the position, and (2) for those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, ESH REIT recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority.
ESH REIT has elected to be taxed as and expects to continue to qualify as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended (the “Code”). A REIT is a legal entity that holds real estate assets and is generally not subject to federal and state income taxes. In order to maintain qualification as a REIT, ESH REIT is required to distribute at least 90% of its taxable income, excluding capital gains, to its shareholders each year. In addition, ESH REIT must meet a number of complex organizational and operational requirements. If ESH REIT were to fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, it would be subject to federal income taxes at regular corporate rates and generally would be precluded from qualifying as a REIT for the subsequent four taxable years following the year during which it lost its REIT qualification. Even in qualifying as a REIT, ESH REIT may be subject to state and local taxes in certain jurisdictions, and is subject to federal income and excise taxes on undistributed income.
During the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, ESH REIT distributed approximately 100% of its taxable income and, as a result, incurred minimal current federal income tax. In the future, ESH REIT intends to distribute its taxable income to the extent necessary to optimize its tax efficiency including, but not limited to, maintaining its REIT status, while retaining sufficient capital for its ongoing needs. ESH REIT will incur federal and state income tax at statutory rates if its taxable income is not distributed. Accordingly, ESH REIT expects to distribute approximately 100% of its taxable income for the foreseeable future.
Foreign Currency Foreign Currency—ESH REIT sold its three Canadian hotels in 2017. Prior to completion of the sale, the financial statements of ESH REIT’s Canadian subsidiaries and its investments therein were maintained in their functional currency, the Canadian dollar, and their revenues and expenses were translated into U.S. dollars using the average exchange rate for the period. The assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries were translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date.
Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income—Comprehensive income includes net income and other comprehensive income, which consists of foreign currency translation adjustments and interest rate cash flow hedge adjustments. Comprehensive income is presented in the accompanying consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Foreign currency translation adjustments and interest rate cash flow hedge adjustments are presented as separate components of consolidated equity.
Equity-Based Compensation Equity-Based Compensation—ESH REIT maintains a Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”), as amended and restated in 2015, approved by its shareholders. Under the LTIP, ESH REIT may issue to eligible employees or directors equity-based awards in respect of Paired Shares with service, performance or market vesting conditions. ESH REIT recognizes costs related to equity-based awards over their vesting periods. ESH REIT classifies equity-based awards granted in exchange for employee or director services as either equity awards or as liability awards. The classification of an award either as an equity award or a liability award is generally based upon cash settlement options. Equity awards are measured based on their fair value on the date of grant. Liability awards are re-measured to fair value each reporting period. The value of all awards is recognized over the requisite service period, which is the period during which an employee or director is required to provide services in exchange for the award (usually the vesting period). No compensation expense is recognized for awards for which employees or directors do not render the requisite services. All awards are classified as equity awards.
Segments Segments—ESH REIT’s hotel ownership business represents a single operating segment based on the manner in which ESH REIT manages its business and operations.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
Fair Value Measurement—In August 2018, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which modifies the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements in Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement. ESH REIT adopted this update on January 1, 2020. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on ESH REIT's consolidated financial statements.
Intangibles-Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software—In August 2018, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software and hosting arrangements that include an internal-use software license. ESH REIT adopted this update on January 1, 2020, using a prospective transition method. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on ESH REIT's consolidated financial statements.
Compensation—Stock Compensation—In June 2018, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which expands the scope of Topic 718, Stock Compensation, to include share-based payments granted to non-employees in exchange for goods or services. The new guidance simplifies the accounting for share-based payments granted to non-employees for goods or services by aligning it with the accounting for share-based payments granted to employees, with certain exceptions. Under the new guidance, non-employee share-based payment awards included within the scope of Topic 718 will be measured at the grant-date fair value of the equity instruments. In addition, classification of non-employee share-based payment awards will be subject to the requirements of Topic 718 unless modified after the good has been delivered and/or the service has been rendered and any other conditions necessary to earn the right to benefit from the instruments have been satisfied. This approach will eliminate the requirement to reassess classification of such awards upon vesting. ESH REIT adopted this update on January 1, 2019, using a retrospective method. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on ESH REIT’s consolidated financial statements.
Goodwill—In January 2017, the FASB issued an accounting standards update in which the guidance on testing for goodwill was updated to eliminate Step 2 in the determination on whether goodwill should be considered impaired. Annual and/or interim assessments are still required. ESH REIT adopted this update on January 1, 2020, using a prospective transition method. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on ESH REIT's consolidated financial statements.
Leases—ASC 842, Leases, introduced a lessee model that requires a right-of-use asset and lease obligation to be presented on the balance sheet for all leases, whether operating or financing. ESH REIT adopted ASC 842 on January 1, 2019, using the modified retrospective approach with the Comparatives Under 840 Option, whereby ESH REIT applied the standard at the beginning of the period of adoption and has presented financial information for periods prior to January 1, 2019 in accordance with prior guidance. Upon adoption, ESH REIT elected practical expedients related to (i) the identification and classification of leases that commenced before the effective date, (ii) initial direct costs for leases that commenced before the effective date, (iii) the ability to use hindsight in evaluating lessee options to extend or terminate a lease or to purchase the underlying asset, (iv) land easements and (v) the evaluation of lease and non-lease components of a contract.
Adoption had no cumulative effect on retained earnings. Adoption resulted in the recognition of operating lease right-of-use assets of $2.8 million, as of January 1, 2019, which included adjustments for accrued lease payments, above-market lease liabilities and lease incentives, and liabilities of $9.3 million. Finance lease right-of-use assets and liabilities recognized as of January 1, 2019, included preexisting assets and liabilities of $3.8 million and $3.4 million, respectively, related to capital leases accounted for under prior guidance.
Judgment was exercised in the application of ASC 842 with respect to the determination of whether a contract contains a lease. While the ability to control and direct the use of an identified asset indicates that the contract, or portion of a contract, is a lease, a counterparty’s substantive substitution rights typically provide evidence that a lessee does not control the asset. Judgment was also exercised with respect to the determination of the discount rate used to determine the present value of lease payments. In instances in which interest rates implicit in leases are not readily determinable, ESH REIT uses its incremental borrowing rate. The substantial majority of widely available market maturities and asset-specific risk spreads may not match the underlying contract and, as such, borrowing rates and risk spreads are estimated based on the contract’s term, the counterparty’s security and other characteristics of the identified asset.
Under ASC 842, lessor accounting for leases did not substantially change from previous guidance; however, the standard introduced certain modifications to conform lessor accounting with the lessee model, further defined certain lease and non-lease components and changed the definition of initial direct costs of leases. The adoption of ASC 842 did not have a material effect on ESH REIT’s revenue recognition or disclosures.