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SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Fair Value Measurement

The Company measures and discloses the fair value of nonfinancial and financial assets and liabilities utilizing a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to a fair value measurement are considered to be observable or unobservable in a marketplace. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect the Company’s market assumptions. This hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. These inputs have created the following fair value hierarchy:

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Level 1 - quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets;

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Level 2 - quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets; and

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Level 3 - fair value measurements derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable.

The Company measures fair value using a set of standardized procedures that are outlined herein for all assets and liabilities which are required to be measured at fair value. When available, the Company utilizes quoted market prices from an independent third-party source to determine fair value and classifies such items in Level 1. In some instances where a market price is available, but the instrument is in an inactive or over-the-counter market, the Company consistently applies the dealer (market maker) pricing estimate and classifies such items in Level 2.

If quoted market prices or inputs are not available, fair value measurements are based upon valuation models that utilize current market or independently sourced market inputs, such as interest rates, option volatilities, credit spreads and/or market capitalization rates. Items valued using such internally-generated valuation techniques are classified according to the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. As a result, these items could be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 even though there may be some significant inputs that are readily observable. Internal fair value models and techniques used by the Company include discounted cash flow and Monte Carlo valuation models.

Risks and Uncertainties

The Company is subject to certain risks and uncertainties affecting the healthcare industry as a result of healthcare legislation and growing regulation by federal, state and local governments. Additionally, we are subject to risks and uncertainties as a result of changes affecting operators of nursing home facilities due to the actions of governmental agencies and insurers to limit the rising cost of healthcare services.

Business Combinations

We record the purchase of properties to net tangible and identified intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed at fair value. Transaction costs are expensed as incurred as part of a business combination. In making estimates of fair value for purposes of recording the purchase, we utilize a number of sources, including independent appraisals that may be obtained in connection with the acquisition or financing of the respective property and other market data. We also consider information obtained about each property as a result of our pre-acquisition due diligence, marketing and leasing activities as well as other critical valuation metrics such as current capitalization rates and discount rates used to estimate the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired (Level 3). When liabilities are assumed as part of a transaction, we consider information obtained about the liabilities and use similar valuation metrics (Level 3). In some instances when debt is assumed and an identifiable active market for similar debt is present, we use market interest rates for similar debt to estimate the fair value of the debt assumed (Level 2). The Company determines fair value as follows:

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Land is determined based on third party appraisals which typically include market comparables.

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Buildings and site improvements acquired are valued using a combination of discounted cash flow projections that assume certain future revenues and costs and consider capitalization and discount rates using current market conditions as well as the residual approach.

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Furniture and fixtures are determined based on third party appraisals which typically utilize a replacement cost approach.

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Mortgages and other investments are valued using a discounted cash flow analysis, using interest rates being offered for similar loans to borrowers with similar credit ratings.

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Investments in joint ventures are valued based on the fair value of the joint ventures’ assets and liabilities. Differences, if any, between the Company’s basis and the joint venture’s basis are generally amortized over the lives of the related assets and liabilities, and such amortization is included in the Company’s share of earnings of the joint venture.

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Intangible assets and liabilities acquired are valued using a combination of discounted cash flow projections as well as other valuation techniques based on current market conditions for the intangible asset or liability being acquired. When evaluating below market leases we consider extension options controlled by the lessee in our evaluation.

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Other assets acquired and liabilities assumed are typically valued at stated amounts, which approximate fair value on the date of the acquisition.

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Assumed debt balances are valued by discounting the remaining contractual cash flows using a current market rate of interest.

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Noncontrolling interests are valued using a stock price on the acquisition date.

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Goodwill represents the purchase price in excess of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is not amortized.

Asset Acquisitions

For asset acquisitions, assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recognized by allocating the cost of the acquisition, including transaction costs, to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed on a relative fair value basis. The fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in an asset acquisition are determined in a consistent manner with the immediately preceding “Business Combinations” section.

Variable Interest Entities

GAAP requires us to identify entities for which control is achieved through means other than voting rights and to determine which business enterprise, if any, is the primary beneficiary of variable interest entities (“VIEs”). A VIE is broadly defined as an entity with one or more of the following characteristics: (a) the total equity investment at risk is insufficient to finance the entity’s activities without additional subordinated financial support; (b) as a group, the holders of the equity investment at risk lack (i) the ability to make decisions about the entity’s activities through voting or similar rights, (ii) the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity, or (iii) the right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity; or (c) the equity investors have voting rights that are not proportional to their economic interests, and substantially all of the entity’s activities either involve, or are conducted on behalf of, an investor that has disproportionately few voting rights. We may change our original assessment of a VIE upon subsequent events such as the modification of contractual arrangements that affects the characteristics or adequacy of the entity’s equity investments at risk and the disposition of all or a portion of an interest held by the primary beneficiary.

Our variable interests in VIEs may be in the form of equity ownership, leases, guarantees and/or loans with our operators. We analyze our agreements and investments to determine whether our operators or unconsolidated joint ventures are VIEs and, if so, whether we are the primary beneficiary.

We consolidate a VIE when we determine that we are its primary beneficiary. We identify the primary beneficiary of a VIE as the enterprise that has both: (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance; and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits of the VIE that could be significant to the entity. Factors considered in determining whether we are the primary beneficiary of an entity include: (i) our voting rights, if any; (ii) our involvement in day-to-day capital and operating decisions; (iii) our risk and reward sharing; (iv) the financial condition of the operator or joint venture and (iv) our representation on the VIE’s board of directors. We perform this analysis on an ongoing basis.

As of December 31, 2019, we have not consolidated any VIEs, as we do not have the power to direct the activities of any VIEs that most significantly impact their economic performance and we do not have the obligation to absorb losses or receive benefits of the VIEs that could be significant to the entities.

Real Estate Investments and Depreciation

The costs of significant improvements, renovations and replacements, including interest are capitalized. In addition, we capitalize leasehold improvements when certain criteria are met, including when we supervise construction and will own the improvement. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as they are incurred.

Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives ranging from 20 to 40 years for buildings, eight to 15 years for site improvements, and three to ten years for furniture and equipment. Leasehold interests are amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life or term of the lease.

Lease Accounting

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). In 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-01, Leases (Topic 842): Land Easement Practical Expedient for Transition to Topic 842, ASU 2018-10, Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements to Topic 842, Leases, ASU 2018-11, Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements and ASU 2018-20, Leases (Topic 842): Narrow-Scope Improvements for Lessors. These standards are collectively referred to herein as Topic 842. We adopted Topic 842 on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective method.

Lessor Accounting

Topic 842 requires lessors to account for leases using an approach that is substantially equivalent to the previous guidance for sales type leases, direct financing leases and operating leases. At the inception of the lease and over its term, we evaluate each lease to determine the proper lease classification. Certain of these leases provide our operators the contractual right to use and economically benefit from all of the physical space specified in the lease, therefore we have determined that they should be evaluated as lease arrangements.

As a lessor, our leased real estate properties are leased under provisions of single or master leases with initial terms typically ranging from 5 to 15 years, plus renewal options. As of December 31, 2019, we have determined that all but two of our leases should be accounted for as operating leases. Two leases are accounted for as direct financing leases. Under the terms of the leases, the lessee is responsible for all maintenance, repairs, taxes and insurance on the leased properties.

For leases accounted for as operating leases, we retain ownership of the asset and record depreciation expense, see “Business Combinations” and “Real Estate Investments and Depreciation” above for additional information regarding our investment in real estate leased under operating lease agreements. We also record lease revenue based on the contractual terms of the operating lease agreement which often includes annual rent escalators, see “Revenue Recognition” below for further discussion regarding the recordation of revenue on our operating leases.

For leases accounted for as direct financing leases, we record the present value of the future minimum lease payments (utilizing a constant interest rate over the term of the lease agreement) as a receivable and record interest income based on the contractual terms of the lease agreement. Certain direct financing leases include annual rent escalators; see “Revenue Recognition” below for further discussion regarding the recording of interest income on our direct financing leases. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, we have no unamortized direct costs related to originating our direct financing leases recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Lessee Accounting

At the inception of the lease and over its term, we evaluate each lease to determine the proper lease classification. Certain of these leases provide us the contractual right to use and economically benefit from all of the space specified in the lease. Therefore, we have determined that they should be evaluated as lease arrangements.

As a lessee, the Company is party to ground and/or facility leases which are classified as operating leases. Substantially all of our operating leases contain provisions for specified annual increases over the rents of the prior year and are generally computed in one of three methods depending on the specific provisions of each lease as follows: (i) a specific annual increase over the prior year’s rent, generally between 1.0% and 3.0%; (ii) an increase based on the change in pre-determined formulas from year to year (e.g., increases in the Consumer Price Index); or (iii) specific dollar increases over prior years. The initial terms of our ground leases range between 10 years and 100 years. Our office leases have initial terms of approximately 10 years. Certain leases have options to extend, terminate or purchase the asset and have been considered in our analysis of the lease term and the measurement of the right-of-use assets and lease liabilities. The discount rate utilized in forming the basis of our right of use assets and lease liabilities approximates our cost of debt. We have not recognized a right of use asset and/or lease liability for leases with terms of 12 months or less and without an option to purchase the underlying asset.

On a monthly basis, we remeasure our lease liabilities at the present value of the future lease payments using the discount rate determined at lease commencement. Rental expense from operating leases is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

We do not include in our measurement of our lease liability certain variable payments, including changes in an index until the specific events that trigger the variable payments have occurred.

As a lessee, certain of our operating leases contain non-lease components, such as our proportionate share of common area expenses. We have determined that all of our operating leases qualify for the practical expedient to not separate the lease and non-lease components because (i) the lease components are operating leases and (ii) the timing and pattern of recognition of the non-lease components are the same as the lease components. We apply Topic 842 to the combined component. Lease expense derived from our operating leases is recorded in general and administrative in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

In-Place Leases

In-place lease assets and liabilities result when we assume a lease as part of a facility purchase or business combination. The fair value of in-place leases consists of the following components, as applicable (1) the estimated cost to replace the leases and (2) the above or below market cash flow of the leases, determined by comparing the projected cash flows of the leases in place at the time of acquisition to projected cash flows of comparable market-rate leases.

Above market leases, net of accumulated amortization, are included in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Below market leases, net of accumulated amortization, are included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The net amortization related to the above and below market leases is included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations as an adjustment to rental income over the estimated remaining term of the underlying leases. Should a tenant terminate the lease, the unamortized portion of the lease intangible is recognized immediately as an adjustment to rental income.

Real Estate Investment Impairment

Management evaluates our real estate investments for impairment indicators at each reporting period, including the evaluation of our assets’ useful lives. The judgment regarding the existence of impairment indicators is based on factors such as, but not limited to, market conditions, operator performance including the current payment status of contractual obligations and expectations of the ability to meet future contractual obligations, legal structure, as well as our intent with respect to holding or disposing of the asset. If indicators of impairment are present, management evaluates the carrying value of the related real estate investments in relation to management’s estimate of future undiscounted cash flows of the underlying facilities. The estimated future undiscounted cash flows are generally based on the related lease which relates to one or more properties and may include cash flows from the eventual disposition of the asset. In some instances, there may be various potential outcomes for a real estate investment and its potential future cash flows. In these instances, the undiscounted future cash flows used to assess the recoverability are probability-weighted based on management’s best estimates as of the date of evaluation. Provisions for impairment losses related to long-lived assets are recognized when expected future undiscounted cash flows based on our intended use of the property are determined to be less than the carrying values of the assets. An adjustment is made to the net carrying value of the real estate investments for the excess of carrying value over fair value. The fair value of the real estate investment is determined based on current market conditions and consider matters such as rental rates and occupancies for comparable properties, recent sales data for comparable properties, and, where applicable, contracts or the results of negotiations with purchasers or prospective purchasers. Additionally, our evaluation of fair value may consider valuing the property as a nursing home or other healthcare facility as well as alternative uses. All impairments are taken as a period cost at that time, and depreciation is adjusted going forward to reflect the new value assigned to the asset. Management’s impairment evaluation process, and when applicable, impairment calculations involve estimation of the future cash flows from management’s intended use of the property as well as the fair value of the property. Changes in the facts and circumstances that drive management’s assumptions may result in an impairment to the Company’s assets in a future period that could be material to the Company’s results of operations.

For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, we recognized impairment on real estate properties of $45.3 million, $29.8 million and $99.1 million, respectively.

Allowance for Losses on Mortgages, Other Investments and Direct Financing Leases

The allowances for losses on mortgage notes receivable, other investments and direct financing leases (collectively, our “loans”) are maintained at a level believed adequate to absorb potential losses. The determination of the allowances is based on a quarterly evaluation of these loans, including general economic conditions and estimated collectability of loan payments. We evaluate the collectability of our loans receivable based on a combination of factors, including, but not limited to, delinquency status, financial strength of the borrower and guarantors and the value of the underlying collateral. If such factors indicate that there is greater risk of loan charge-offs, additional allowances or placement on non-accrual status may be required. A loan is impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due as scheduled according to the contractual terms of the loan agreements. Consistent with this definition, all loans on non-accrual status may be deemed impaired. To the extent circumstances improve and the risk of collectability is diminished, we will return these loans to full accrual status. When management identifies potential loan impairment indicators, the loan is written down to the present value of the expected future cash flows. In cases where expected future cash flows are not readily determinable, the loan is written down to the fair value of the underlying collateral. We may base our valuation on a loan’s observable market price, if any, or the fair value of collateral, net of sales costs, if the repayment of the loan is expected to be provided solely by the sale of the collateral.

We account for impaired loans and direct financing leases using (a) the cost-recovery method, and/or (b) the cash basis method. We generally utilize the cost-recovery method for impaired loans or direct financing leases for which impairment reserves were recorded. We utilize the cash basis method for impaired loans or direct financing leases for which no impairment reserves were recorded because the net present value of the discounted cash flows expected under the loan or direct financing lease and/or the underlying collateral supporting the loan or direct financing lease were equal to or exceeded the book value of the loans or direct financing leases. Under the cost-recovery method, we apply cash received against the outstanding loan balance or direct financing lease prior to recording interest income. Under the cash basis method, we apply cash received to principal or interest income based on the terms of the agreement. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, we had $5.1 million and $108.1 million, respectively, of reserves on our loans.

Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures

We account for our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures using the equity method of accounting as we exercise significant influence, but do not control the entities. The accounting policies for the unconsolidated joint ventures are the same as those of the Company.

Under the equity method of accounting, the net equity investments of the Company are reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and the Company’s share of net income and comprehensive income from the joint ventures are included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, respectively.

On a periodic basis, management assesses whether there are any indicators that the value of the Company’s investments in the unconsolidated joint ventures may be other-than-temporarily-impaired. An investment is impaired only if management’s estimate of the value of the investment is less than the carrying value of the investment, and such a decline in value is deemed to be other than-temporary. To the extent impairment has occurred, the loss is measured as the excess of the carrying amount of the investment over the estimated fair value of the investment. The estimated fair value of the investment is determined using a discounted cash flow model which is a Level 3 valuation. We consider a number of assumptions that are subject to economic and market uncertainties including, among others, rental rates, operating costs, capitalization rates, holding periods and discount rates.

No impairment loss on our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures was recognized during the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018, or 2017.

Assets Held for Sale

We consider properties to be assets held for sale when (1) management commits to a plan to sell the property; (2) it is unlikely that the disposal plan will be significantly modified or discontinued; (3) the property is available for immediate sale in its present condition; (4) actions required to complete the sale of the property have been initiated; (5) sale of the property is probable and we expect the completed sale will occur within one year; and (6) the property is actively being marketed for sale at a price that is reasonable given our estimate of current market value. Upon designation of a property as an asset held for sale, we record the property’s value at the lower of its carrying value or its estimated fair value, less estimated costs to sell, and we cease depreciation.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and highly liquid investments with a maturity date of three months or less when purchased. These investments are stated at cost, which approximates fair value. The majority of our cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash are held at major commercial banks. Certain cash account balances exceed FDIC insurance limits of $250,000 per account and, as a result, there is a concentration of credit risk related to amounts in excess of the insurance limits. We regularly monitor the financial stability of these financial institutions and believe that we are not exposed to any significant credit risk in cash, cash equivalents or restricted cash.

Restricted Cash

Restricted cash consists primarily of liquidity deposits escrowed for tenant obligations required by us pursuant to certain contractual terms and other deposits required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) in connection with our mortgage borrowings guaranteed by HUD.

Contractual Receivables and Other Receivables and Lease Inducements

Contractual receivables relate to the amounts currently owed to us under the terms of our lease and loan agreements. Effective yield interest receivables relate to the difference between the interest income recognized on an effective yield basis over the term of the loan agreement and the interest currently due to us according to the contractual agreement. Straight-line rent receivables relate to the difference between the rental revenue recognized on a straight-line basis and the amounts currently due to us according to the contractual agreement. Lease inducements result from value provided by us to the lessee, at the inception, modification or renewal of the lease, and are amortized as a reduction of rental income over the non-cancellable lease term.

We assess the probability of collecting substantially all payments under our leases based on several factors, including, among other things, payment history of the lessee, the financial strength of the lessee and any guarantors, historical operations and operating trends and current and future economic conditions and expectations of performance. If our evaluation of these factors indicates it is probable that we will be unable to collect substantially all rents, we recognize a charge to rental income and limit our rental income to the lesser of lease income on a straight-line basis plus variable rents when they become accruable or cash collected. If we change our conclusion regarding the probability of collecting rent payments required by a lessee, we may recognize an adjustment to rental income in the period we make a change to our prior conclusion.

On a quarterly basis, and more frequently as appropriate, we review our contractual interest receivables, effective yield interest receivables and direct financing lease receivables to determine their collectability. The determination of collectability of these assets requires significant judgment and is affected by several factors relating to the credit quality of our operators that we regularly monitor, including (i) payment history, (ii) the age of the contractual receivables, (iii) the current economic conditions and reimbursement environment, (iv) the ability of the operator to perform under the terms of their lease and/or contractual loan agreements and (v) the value of the underlying collateral of the agreement, if any.

For a loan recognized on an effective yield basis or a direct financing lease, we generally provide an allowance for effective interest or income from direct financing leases when certain conditions or indicators of adverse collectability are present. If these accounts receivable balances are subsequently deemed uncollectible, the receivable and allowance for doubtful account balance are written off.

A summary of our net receivables and inducements by type is as follows:


	December 31,
	2019		2018
	(in thousands)
Contractual receivables	$	27,122	$	34,901
Allowance		—		(1,075)
Contractual receivables – net	$	27,122	$	33,826

Effective yield interest receivables	$	12,914	$	12,741
Straight-line rent receivables		275,549		251,166
Lease inducements		92,628		49,644
Other receivables and lease inducements	$	381,091	$	313,551

In 2019, we wrote-off approximately $11.1 million of contractual receivables, straight-line rent receivables and lease inducements to rental income, of which $9.9 million resulted from placing five operators on a cash-basis due to changes in our evaluation of the collectability of future rent payments due under the respective lease agreements. The remaining $1.2 million write-off of straight-line rent receivables to rental income resulted from transitioning a facility to another existing operator. In 2019, we paid certain operators $50.8 million which were accounted for as lease inducements that are amortized as a reduction to rental income over the remaining term of the lease. Of the $50.8 million, $15.0 million was paid to Genesis Healthcare, Inc. and $35.8 million was paid to seven other existing operators.

In 2018, we paid an existing operator approximately $50 million in exchange for a reduction of such operator’s participation in an in-the-money purchase option. As a result, we recorded an approximate $28 million lease inducement that is being amortized as a reduction to rental income over the remaining term of the lease. The remaining $22 million was recorded as a reduction to our initial contingent liability. Our initial contingent liability was recorded in our merger with Aviv REIT, Inc. and included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

In 2018, we wrote-off approximately $11.5 million of straight-line rent receivables and contractual receivables to provision for uncollectible accounts, as a result of facility transitions and placing an operator on a cash basis. The provision for uncollectible accounts was offset by a recovery of approximately $4.8 million.

In 2017, we recorded a provision for uncollectible accounts of approximately $9.3 million related to contractual and straight-line rent receivables for one of our operators and approximately $4.1 million of provision for uncollectible accounts, net of recoveries related to contractual and straight-line receivables of other operators and/or facilities that we intend to exit or transition.

Goodwill Impairment

We assess goodwill for potential impairment during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, or during the year if an event or other circumstance indicates that we may not be able to recover the carrying amount of the net assets of the reporting unit. In evaluating goodwill for impairment on an interim basis, we assess qualitative factors such as a significant decline in real estate valuations, current macroeconomic conditions, state of the equity and capital markets and our overall financial and operating performance or a significant decline in the value of our market capitalization, to determine whether it is more likely than not (that is, a likelihood of more than 50 percent) that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. On an annual basis during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, or on an interim basis if we conclude it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, we perform a two-step goodwill impairment test to identify potential impairment and measure the amount of impairment we will recognize, if any. The goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.

In the first step of the two-step goodwill impairment test (“Step 1”), we compare the fair value of the reporting unit to its net book value, including goodwill. As the Company has only one reporting unit, the fair value of the reporting unit is determined by reference to the market capitalization of the Company as determined through quoted market prices and adjusted for other relevant factors. A potential impairment exists if the fair value of the reporting unit is lower than its net book value. The second step (“Step 2”) of the process is only performed if a potential impairment exists, and it involves determining the difference between the fair value of the reporting unit’s net assets other than goodwill and the fair value of the reporting unit. If the difference is less than the net book value of goodwill, impairment exists and is recorded. The Company has not been required to perform Step 2 of the process because the fair value of the reporting unit has significantly exceeded its book value at the measurement date. There was no impairment of goodwill during 2019, 2018, or 2017.

Income Taxes

Omega and its wholly owned subsidiaries were organized to qualify for taxation as a REIT under Section 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code (“Code”). As long as we qualify as a REIT; we will not be subject to federal income taxes on the REIT taxable income that we distributed to stockholders, subject to certain exceptions. However, with respect to certain of our subsidiaries that have elected to be treated as taxable REIT subsidiaries (“TRSs”), we record income tax expense or benefit, as those entities are subject to federal income tax similar to regular corporations. Omega OP is a pass-through entity for United States federal income tax purposes.

We account for deferred income taxes using the asset and liability method and recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in our financial statements or tax returns. Under this method, we determine deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Any increase or decrease in the deferred tax liability that results from a change in circumstances, and that causes us to change our judgment about expected future tax consequences of events, is included in the tax provision when such changes occur. Deferred income taxes also reflect the impact of operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. A valuation allowance is provided if we believe it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. Any increase or decrease in the valuation allowance that results from a change in circumstances, and that causes us to change our judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax asset, is included in the tax provision when such changes occur.

We are subject to certain state and local income tax, franchise taxes and foreign taxes. The expense associated with these taxes are included in income tax expense on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Revenue Recognition

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2014-09”) and its subsequent updates using a modified retrospective approach. As a result of adopting ASU 2014-09, we recognize gains related to the sale of real estate when we transfer control of the property and when it is probable that we will collect substantially all of the related consideration. As a result of adopting ASU 2014-09 and its updates on January 1, 2018, the Company recognized $10.0 million of deferred gain resulting from the sale of facilities to a third-party in December 2017 through opening equity on January 1, 2018.

We have various investments that generate revenue, including leased and mortgaged properties, as well as other investments, which include secured and unsecured loans.

Rental income

Substantially all of our operating leases contain provisions for specified annual increases over the rents of the prior year and are generally computed in one of three methods depending on the specific provisions of each lease as follows: (i) a specific annual increase over the prior year’s rent, generally between 2.0% and 3.0%; (ii) an increase based on the change in pre-determined formulas from year to year (e.g., increases in the Consumer Price Index); or (iii) specific dollar increases over prior years. Rental income from operating leases is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term when we have determined that the collectibility of substantially all of the lease payments is probable. If we determine that it is not probable that substantially all of the lease payments will be collected, we account for the revenue under the lease on a cash basis. Changes in the assessment of probability are accounted for on a cumulative basis as if the lease had always been accounted for based on the current determination of the likelihood of collection potentially resulting in increased volatility of rental revenue. Some of our leases have options to extend, terminate or purchase the facilities, which are considered when determining the lease term. We do not include in our measurement of our lease receivables certain variable payments, including changes in an index until the specific events that trigger the variable payments have occurred.

Certain of our operating leases require the operators to reimburse us for property taxes and other expenditures that are not considered components of the lease and therefore no consideration is allocated to them as they do not result in the transfer of a good or service to the operators. We have determined that all of our leases qualify for the practical expedient to not separate the lease and non-lease components because (i) the lease components are operating leases and (ii) the timing and pattern of recognition of the non-lease components are the same as the lease components. We apply Topic 842 to the combined component. Income derived from our leases is recorded in rental income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Prior to the adoption of Topic 842, we did not include amounts for property taxes and other expenditures in rental income.

Certain tenants are obligated to pay directly their obligations under their leases for real estate taxes, insurance and certain other expenses. These obligations, which have been assumed by the tenants under the terms of their respective leases, are not reflected in our consolidated financial statements. To the extent any tenant responsible for these obligations under their respective lease defaults on its lease or if it is deemed probable that the tenant will fail to pay for such costs, we would record a liability for such obligation.

We have elected to exclude sales and other similar taxes from the measurement of lease revenue and expense.

Income from direct financing leases

We record direct financing lease income on a constant interest rate basis over the term of the lease. Costs related to originating direct financing leases are deferred and amortized on a straight-line basis as a reduction to income from direct financing leases over the term of the direct financing leases.

Mortgage interest income and other investment income

Mortgage interest income and other investment income is recognized as earned over the terms of the related mortgage notes or other investment. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis to the extent that such amounts are expected to be collected using the effective interest method. In applying the effective interest method, the effective yield on a loan is determined based on its contractual payment terms, adjusted for prepayment terms.

Stock-Based Compensation

We recognize stock-based compensation expense adjusted for estimated forfeitures to employees and directors, in general and administrative in our Consolidated Statements of Operations on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the awards.

Deferred Financing Costs and Original Issuance Premium and/or Discounts for Debt Issuance

External costs incurred from the placement of our debt are capitalized and amortized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the related borrowings which approximates the effective interest method. Deferred financing costs related to our revolving line of credit are included in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and deferred financing costs related to our other borrowings are included as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the related liability on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Original issuance premium or discounts reflect the difference between the face amount of the debt issued and the cash proceeds received and are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the related borrowings. All premiums and discounts are recorded as an addition to or reduction from debt on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Amortization of deferred financing costs and original issuance premiums or discounts totaled $9.6 million, $9.0 million and $9.5 million in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and are classified as interest - amortization of deferred financing costs on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. When financings are terminated, unamortized deferred financing costs and unamortized premiums or discounts, as well as charges incurred for the termination, are recognized as expense or income at the time the termination is made. Gains and losses from the extinguishment of debt are presented in interest-refinancing costs on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Earnings Per Share/Unit

The computation of basic earnings per share/unit (“EPS” or “EPU”) is computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders/Omega OP Unit holders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock/Omega OP Units outstanding during the relevant period. Diluted EPS/EPU is computed using the treasury stock method, which is net income divided by the total weighted-average number of common outstanding shares/Omega OP Units plus the effect of dilutive common equivalent shares/units during the respective period. Dilutive common shares/Omega OP Units reflect the assumed issuance of additional common shares pursuant to certain of our share-based compensation plans, including restricted stock and profit interest units, performance restricted stock and profit interest units, the assumed issuance of additional shares related to Omega OP Units held by outside investors and the effect of our forward equity agreement. Dilutive Omega OP Units reflect the assumed issuance of additional Omega OP Units pursuant to certain of our share-based compensation plans, including, restricted stock and profit interest units, performance restricted stock and profit interest units and the effect of our forward equity agreement.

Redeemable Limited Partnership Unitholder Interests and Noncontrolling Interests

Each of the Omega OP Units (other than the Omega OP Units owned by Omega) is redeemable at the election of the Omega OP Unit holder for cash equal to the then-fair market value of one share of Omega common stock, par value $0.10 per share (“Omega Common Stock”), subject to Omega’s election to exchange the Omega OP Units tendered for redemption for unregistered shares of Omega Common Stock on a one-for-one basis, subject to adjustment as set forth in the Partnership Agreement. As of December 31, 2019, Omega owns approximately 97% of the issued and outstanding Omega OP Units, and investors own approximately 3% of the outstanding Omega OP Units.

Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling interests is the portion of equity not attributable to the respective reporting entity. We present the portion of any equity that we do not own in consolidated entities as noncontrolling interests and classify those interests as a component of total equity, separate from total stockholders’ equity or owners’ equity on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We include net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests in net income in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

As our ownership of a controlled subsidiary increases or decreases, any difference between the aggregate consideration paid to acquire the noncontrolling interests and our noncontrolling interest balance is recorded as a component of equity in additional paid-in capital, so long as we maintain a controlling ownership interest.

The noncontrolling interest for Omega represents the outstanding Omega OP Units held by outside investors and interests in a consolidated real estate joint venture not fully owned by Omega.

The noncontrolling interest for Omega OP represents outside investors interests in a consolidated real estate joint venture not fully owned by Omega OP.

Foreign Operations

The U.S. dollar (“USD”) is the functional currency for our consolidated subsidiaries operating in the U.S. The functional currency for our consolidated subsidiaries operating in the U.K. is the British Pound (“GBP”). For our consolidated subsidiaries whose functional currency is not the USD, we translate their financial statements into the USD. We translate assets and liabilities at the exchange rate in effect as of the financial statement date. Revenue and expense accounts are translated using an average exchange rate for the period. Gains and losses resulting from translation are included in Omega OP’s owners’ equity and Omega’s accumulated other comprehensive loss (“AOCL”), as a separate component of equity and a proportionate amount of gain or loss is allocated to noncontrolling interests, if applicable.

We and certain of our consolidated subsidiaries may have intercompany and third-party debt that is not denominated in the entity’s functional currency. When the debt is remeasured against the functional currency of the entity, a gain or loss can result. The resulting adjustment is reflected in results of operations, unless it is intercompany debt that is deemed to be long-term in nature in which case the adjustments are included in Omega OP’s owners’ equity and Omega’s AOCL and a proportionate amount of gain or loss is allocated to noncontrolling interests, if applicable.

Derivative Instruments

Cash flow hedges

During our normal course of business, we may use certain types of derivative instruments for the purpose of managing interest rate and currency risk. To qualify for hedge accounting, derivative instruments used for risk management purposes must effectively reduce the risk exposure that they are designed to hedge. In addition, at the inception of a qualifying cash flow hedging relationship, the underlying transaction or transactions, must be, and are expected to remain, probable of occurring in accordance with the Company’s related assertions. The Company recognizes all derivative instruments, including embedded derivatives required to be bifurcated, as assets or liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value which is determined using a market approach and Level 2 inputs. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments that are not designated in hedging relationships or that do not meet the criteria of hedge accounting are recognized in earnings. For derivatives designated in qualifying cash flow hedging relationships, the gain or loss on the derivative is recognized in Omega OP’s owners’ equity and Omega’s AOCL as a separate component of equity and a proportionate amount of gain or loss is allocated to noncontrolling interest, if applicable. We formally document all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as our risk-management objectives and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. This process includes designating all derivatives that are part of a hedging relationship to specific forecasted transactions as well as recognized liabilities or assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We also assess and document, both at inception of the hedging relationship and on a quarterly basis thereafter, whether the derivatives are highly effective in offsetting the designated risks associated with the respective hedged items. If it is determined that a derivative ceases to be highly effective as a hedge, or that it is probable the underlying forecasted transaction will not occur, we discontinue hedge accounting prospectively and record the appropriate adjustment to earnings based on the current fair value of the derivative. As a matter of policy, we do not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. At December 31, 2019, $3.7 million of qualifying cash flow hedges were recorded at fair value in accrued expenses and other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheet. At December 31, 2018, $4.0 million of qualifying cash flow hedges were recorded at fair value in other assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Net investment hedge

The Company is exposed to fluctuations in the GBP against its functional currency, the USD, relating to its investments in healthcare-related real estate properties located in the U.K. The Company uses a nonderivative, GBP-denominated term loan to manage its exposure to fluctuations in the GBP-USD exchange rate. The foreign currency transaction gain or loss on the nonderivative hedging instrument that is designated and qualifies as a net investment hedge is reported in Omega OP’s owners’ equity and Omega’s AOCL in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Reclassification

Contractual receivables – net and Other receivables and lease inducements have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

Recently and Pending Adoption Accounting Pronouncements

Accounting Pronouncements Adopted in 2019

Topic 842 sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases for both parties to a contract (i.e., lessees and lessors). Topic 842 requires lessees to apply a dual approach, classifying leases as either finance or operating leases based on the principle of whether or not the lease is effectively a financed purchase of the leased asset by the lessee. This classification will determine whether the lease expense is recognized based on an effective interest method or on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Topic 842 requires lessors to account for leases using an approach that is substantially equivalent to the previous guidance for sales type leases, direct financing leases and operating leases. Topic 842 was adopted by us on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective method. Upon adoption, we applied the package of practical expedients that allowed us to not reassess (i) whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases, (ii) lease classification for any expired or existing leases and (iii) initial direct costs for any expired or existing leases. Furthermore, we applied the optional transition method, which allowed us to initially apply Topic 842 at the adoption date and recognize a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of equity in the period of adoption. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we made an adjustment of approximately $8.5 million to the equity balance to reflect our assessment of the collectability of certain operator’s future contractual lease payments based on the facts and circumstances that existed as of January 1, 2019.

In addition, provisions for uncollectible lease payments are recognized as a direct reduction to rental income. Prior to our adoption of Topic 842, provisions for uncollectible lease payments were recorded in provision for uncollectible accounts on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and were not reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

Upon adoption of Topic 842, we recorded total initial non-cash right of use assets and lease liabilities of approximately $11.1 million. We also began recording variable lease payments as rental income and real estate tax expense for those facilities’ property taxes that we pay directly and are reimbursed by our operators. For the year ended December 31, 2019, we recorded $12.1 million of rental income and $14.9 million of real estate tax expense in our Consolidated Statement of Operations. We also began recording rental income and ground lease expense for those assets we lease and are reimbursed by our operators and/or are paid for directly by our operators. For the year ended December 31, 2019, we recorded $0.8 million of rental income and $1.2 million of ground lease expense in our Consolidated Statement of Operations.

At December 31, 2019, our leased real estate properties, included 784 SNFs, 114 ALFs, 28 specialty facilities and two MOBs.


	Year Ended December 31, 2019
	(in thousands)
Interest income – direct financing leases	$	1,036

Rental income – operating leases		792,010
Variable lease income – operating leases		12,066
Total lease income	$	804,076

Real estate tax expense	$	14,933
General and administrative – ground lease expense		1,208
Total	$	16,141

The following amounts reflect the estimated contractual rents due to us for the remainder of the initial terms of our operating leases as of December 31, 2019:


	(in thousands)
2020	$	864,027
2021		884,432
2022		866,163
2023		860,369
2024		866,551
Thereafter		4,944,117
Total	$	9,285,659

As of December 31, 2019, the Company is a lessee under ground and/or facility leases related to 11 SNFs and two offices.



	December 31, 2019
	(in thousands)

Other assets - right of use assets	$	17,533

Accrued expenses and other liabilities – lease liabilities	$	18,033


	Year Ended December 31, 2019
	(in thousands)
Operating lease cost
Lease expense	$	2,110
Variable lease expense		129
Total lease expense	$	2,239

Rental income – ground lease income	$	842

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities	$	1,949
Weighted average remaining lease term (in years)		28
Weighted average discount rate		5.25%

The following amounts reflect the maturities of our operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2019:


	Future Rental Payments		Accretion of Lease Liability		Total
2020	$	1,847	$	(929)	$	918
2021		1,878		(879)		999
2022		1,922		(824)		1,098
2023		1,967		(764)		1,203
2024		2,012		(699)		1,313
Thereafter		34,002		(21,500)		12,502
Total	$	43,628	$	(25,595)	$	18,033

Recent Accounting Pronouncements - Pending Adoption

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) (“ASU 2016-13”), which changes the impairment model for most financial assets. The new model uses a forward-looking expected loss method, which will generally result in earlier recognition of allowances for credit losses. The measurement of expected credit losses is based upon historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019. ASU 2016-13 specifically excludes from its scope receivables arising from operating leases accounted for under Topic 842. We plan to adopt ASU 2016-13 on January 1, 2020 using the modified retrospective approach. Therefore, financial information and disclosures under ASU 2016-13 will not be provided for periods prior to January 1, 2020. We are in the process of finalizing a company-wide governance structure, which provides implementation oversight to develop a credit loss methodology compliant with the standard. Our methodology includes consideration of historical losses, the credit profiles of our borrowers and/or lessees, and reasonable and supportable forecasts with respect to expected credit losses over the life of the asset. Certain of the Company’s financial assets which are not currently reserved for are within the scope of ASU 2016-13. These financial assets primarily include our investments in direct financing leases, mortgages notes receivable and other investments. We continue to evaluate the initial and subsequent impacts of adopting ASU 2016-13 on our consolidated financial statements.