How Distributions Work on Realbricks

Investors may receive distributions on Realbricks based on the terms of each offering. Learn how distributions are calculated, when they would be declared, and the factors that affect net operating income.

What is a distribution?

When you invest in a property on Realbricks, you acquire ownership interests in a company that owns real estate rather than purchasing the entire property individually. If a property is rented and generates net operating income from the lease, investors may receive distributions based on the terms of each applicable offering. Distributions, if declared, are allocated in proportion to the number of ownership interests, or shares, an investor owns. Distributions are not guaranteed and depend on factors such as whether the property is leased, rental income collected, operating expenses, reserves, and other property-level expenses. 

It may be helpful to understand the differences between rental income from a distribution. Rental income is the amount collected from tenants under a lease. A distribution, if declared for an offering on Realbricks, is based on the property's net operating income after operating expenses have been paid, as detailed in the Offering Circular for each offering. Therefore, rental income is only one factor used to calculate potential distributions. This guide explains how distributions are calculated, when they would be declared, and the factors that can affect them.

How net operating income affects Distributions

Before any distribution is considered, the property associated with an applicable offering on Realbricks must first pay its operating expenses. These include property management expenses, maintenance and repairs, insurance premiums, property taxes, and other costs associated with owning and operating the property. The amount remaining after these operating expenses are paid is referred to as the property's net operating income. If a distribution is declared, a portion of the property's net operating income is distributed to investors in accordance with the terms of the applicable offering documents. 

Because operating expenses can vary over time, two properties with similar rental income may generate different levels of net operating income. Likewise, the same property may generate different amounts from one period to the next.

Why a property might not make a distribution

Distributions are not guaranteed, and there are several reasons a property may not make a distribution during a given period:

There is no lease in place for a property. A newly built or newly acquired property does not generate rental income until it is leased to a tenant. Many of our newest offerings are new-construction homes that are still being completed or in the process of being leased. Such properties will not produce rental income until they are occupied. As a result, distributions are generally not expected while the property is not generating rental income. 

Operating expenses exceed or substantially reduce the rental income. Operating expenses may reduce or eliminate net operating income for a given period if a property experiences a major or unexpected repair, a period of vacancy, or higher-than-usual operating costs.

The timing of distributions. Although rent may be collected monthly, distributions, if declared, are evaluated on a quarterly basis, after the quarter closes. Rental income and operating expenses are measured over the applicable reporting period before any distribution is considered. As a result, a property that is leased during a reporting period may generate limited or no net operating income for that period, depending on the timing of the lease commencement and related operating expenses.  

These situations are part of the normal operation of residential rental properties and do not necessarily indicate that a property is underperforming. They can affect the property's net operating income, which in turn may influence whether a distribution is declared and the amount distributed. . 

How and when distributions may be paid

If a distribution is declared, it is allocated on a pro rata basis based on each investor's ownership interest in the offering. Each share receives the same distribution amount, so investors who own more shares receive a proportionately larger total distribution because they own a larger percentage of the offering. 

The timing, amount, and frequency of distributions, if any, are determined in accordance with the governing offering documents and depend on the financial performance of the underlying property. Distributions may vary from period to period and may not occur. 

Distributions paid are reported to investors on a 1099-DIV, the same tax form used for dividend income. Importantly, tax reporting for a Realbricks investment may differ from that of owning a rental property directly. This information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Tax treatment depends on an investor's individual circumstances. Investors should review the applicable offering documents and consult their own tax adviser regarding their specific situation. 

Setting realistic expectations

 Distributions represent a potential outcome of acquiring ownership interests in an entity that owns an income-producing residential rental property. They are not fixed payments and should not be expected in every reporting period.  

Whether distributions are made depends on a variety of factors, including whether the property is completed, leased, generating rental income, and producing net operating income after expenses. Changes in occupancy, operating costs, maintenance requirements, market conditions, or other factors may affect the availability and amount of any distributions. Investing in real estate involves uncertainty, and past or projected property performance should not be viewed as an indication of future results.

Fractional real estate investments are intended to be long-term investments, and distributions, if declared, reflect the real performance of a real property with real costs.

Where to learn more

All offerings listed on the Realbricks marketplace include offering materials that describe the property, investment structure, projected financial information, assumptions, and material risks. Investors are encouraged to review the applicable offering documents, including the Offering Circular, before making an investment decision. 

Disclaimer: Investing in real estate involves risks, including the potential loss of capital. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Distributions are not guaranteed and depend on a property being tenanted, collecting rent, and generating net operating income; they may vary or may not be paid. Investors should perform their own research and consult with financial and tax professionals before making investment decisions.