First Real Estate Investment Trust Of New Jersey (FREVS) SEC Annual Report (10-K) for 2008

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

For the Fiscal Year Ended October 31, 2008

Commission File No. 000-25043

201-488-6400

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

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

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

Shares of Beneficial Interest

(Title of class)

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o  No x

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes o  No x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x  No o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of "accelerated filer and large accelerated filer" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

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

The aggregate market value of the registrant's shares of beneficial interest held by non-affiliates was approximately $111 million. Computation is based on the closing sales price of such shares as quoted on the over-the-counter-market on April 30, 2008, the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second quarter.

As of January 13, 2009, the number of shares of beneficial interest outstanding was 6,946,432

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE : Portions of the Proxy Statement for the Registrant's 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on April 7, 2009 are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Annual Report.

TABLE OF C O NTENTS

FORM 10-K

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

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

PA R T I

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

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

FREIT Website

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

       Fiscal Year 2008 Developments

FREIT has two reportable segments: Commercial Properties and Residential Properties. These reportable segments have different types of tenants and are managed separately because each requires different operating strategies and management expertise. Segment information for the three years ended October 31, 2008 is incorporated by reference to Note 13, "Segment Information."

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

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

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

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

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

Portfolio of Real Estate Investments

At October 31, 2008, FREIT's real estate holdings included (i) nine (9) apartment buildings or complexes containing 1,075 rentable units, (ii) ten (10) commercial properties (retail and office) containing approximately 1,265,000 square feet of leasable space, including one (1) single tenant store, two (2) separate one acre parcels subject to ground leases, and (iii) four (4) parcels of undeveloped land consisting of approximately 40.37 acres. FREIT and its subsidiaries own all such properties in fee simple. See "Item 2 Properties - Portfolio of Investments" of this Annual Report for a description of FREIT's separate investment properties and certain other pertinent information with respect to such properties that is relevant to FREIT's business.

Investment in Subsidiaries

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

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

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

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

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

Damascus Centre, LLC ("Damascus"): FREIT owns a 70% membership interest in Damascus, which owns a shopping center in Damascus, MD that is currently being renovated and expanded. (See Item 1-a(ii) Construction.)

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

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

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

Employees

On October 31, 2008 FREIT and its subsidiaries had twenty-two (22) full-time employees and two (2) part-time employees who work solely at the properties owned by FREIT or its subsidiaries. The number of part-time employees varies seasonally.

Mr. Robert S. Hekemian, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Donald W. Barney, President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, and Mr. John A. Aiello, Esq., Secretary and Executive Secretary, are the executive officers of FREIT. Mr. Hekemian devotes approximately seventy percent (70%) of his business activities to FREIT, Mr. Barney devotes approximately fifteen percent (15%) of his business activities to FREIT, and Mr. Aiello devotes approximately seven percent (7%) of his business activities to FREIT. Refer to "Item 10 – Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance." Hekemian & Co., Inc. ("Hekemian") has been retained by FREIT to manage FREIT's properties and is responsible for recruiting, on behalf of FREIT, the personnel required to perform all services related to the operation of FREIT's properties. See "Management Agreement."

Management Agreement

On April 10, 2002, FREIT and Hekemian executed a Management Agreement whereby Hekemian would continue as Managing Agent for FREIT. The term of the Management Agreement currently runs until October 31, 2009 and shall be automatically renewed for periods of two years unless either party gives not less than six (6) months prior notice to the other of non-renewal. The salient provisions of the Management Agreement are as follows: FREIT continues to retain the Managing Agent as the exclusive management and leasing agent for properties which FREIT owned as of April 2002 and for the Preakness Shopping Center acquired on November 1, 2002 by WaynePSC. However, FREIT may retain other managing agents to manage certain other properties acquired after April 10, 2002 and to perform various other duties such as sales, acquisitions, and development with respect to any or all properties. The Managing Agent is no longer the exclusive advisor for FREIT to locate and recommend to FREIT investments, which the Managing Agent deems suitable for FREIT, and is no longer required to offer potential acquisition properties exclusively to FREIT before acquiring those properties for its own account. The Management Agreement includes a detailed schedule of fees for those services, which the Managing Agent may be called upon to perform. The Management Agreement provides for a termination fee in the event of a termination or non-renewal of the Management Agreement under certain circumstances.

Pursuant to the terms of the Management Agreement, FREIT pays Hekemian certain fees and commissions as compensation for its services. From time to time, FREIT engages Hekemian to provide certain additional services, such as consulting services related to development and financing activities of FREIT. Separate fee arrangements are negotiated between Hekemian and FREIT or its affiliates, with respect to such additional services. During the 4 th quarter of Fiscal 2007, FREIT's Board of Trustees approved, in general, development fee arrangements for the development services to be performed at The Rotunda (owned by Grande a 60% owned affiliate of FREIT), the Damascus Center (owned by Damascus, a 70% owned affiliate of FREIT), and the South Brunswick project.  These fees will be payable to Hekemian Development Resources LLC ("Resources") a wholly owned affiliate of Hekemian. As of the date of this Annual Report, only the definitive agreement for the development services to be performed at The Damascus Center has been executed. The development fee arrangement for The Rotunda provides for Resources to receive a fee equal to 6.375% of the total development costs of up to $136 million (as may be modified), and the fee for the redevelopment of the Damascus Shopping Center to be equal to 7% of the redevelopment costs of up to approximately $17.3 million (as may be modified). The minority ownership interests of Grande and Damascus are owned by Rotunda 100, LLC and Damascus 100, LLC, which are principally owned by employees of Hekemian, including certain members of the immediately family of Robert S. Hekemian, FREIT's CEO and Chairman, and Robert S. Hekemian, Jr., a trustee of FREIT, and the members of the Hekemian family have majority management control of these entities. In connection with the development activities at South Brunswick, the fees with respect to this project are 7% of development costs of up to $21,000,000 (as may be modified). A definitive contract regarding the specific services to be provided at the South Brunswick project has not yet been finalized and approved. See "First Real Estate Investment Trust of New Jersey Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - Note 8."

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

Real Estate Financing

FREIT funds acquisition opportunities and the development of its real estate properties largely through debt financing, including mortgage loans against certain of its properties. At October 31, 2008, FREIT's aggregate outstanding mortgage debt was $192.4 million with an average interest cost on a weighted average basis of 5.87%. FREIT has mortgage loans against certain properties, which serve as collateral for such loans. See the tables in "Item 2 Properties - Portfolio of Investments" for the outstanding mortgage balances at October 31, 2008 with respect to each of these properties.

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

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

Neither FREIT's Declaration of Trust nor any policy statement formally adopted by FREIT's Board of Trustees limits either the total amount of indebtedness or the specified percentage of indebtedness (based on the total capitalization of FREIT), which may be incurred by FREIT. Accordingly, FREIT may incur in the future additional secured or unsecured indebtedness in furtherance of its business activities, including, if or when necessary, to refinance its existing debt. Future debt incurred by FREIT could bear interest at rates, which are higher than the rates on FREIT's existing debt. Future debt incurred by FREIT could also bear interest at a variable rate. Increases in interest rates would increase FREIT's variable interest costs (to the extent that the related indebtedness was not protected by interest rate protection arrangements), which could have a material adverse effect on FREIT and its ability to make distributions to shareholders and to pay amounts due on its debt or cause

FREIT to be in default under its debt. Further, in the future, FREIT may not be able to, or may determine that it is not able to, obtain financing for property acquisitions or for capital expenditures to develop or improve its properties on terms, which are acceptable to FREIT. In such event, FREIT might elect to defer certain projects unless alternative sources of capital were available, such as through an equity or debt offering by FREIT.

Competitive Conditions

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

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

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

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

The success of FREIT's investment in its shopping center properties is largely dependent upon the success of its tenants. Unfavorable economic, demographic, or competitive conditions may adversely affect the financial condition of tenants and consequently the lease revenues from and the value of FREIT's investments in its shopping center properties. If the sales of stores operating in FREIT's shopping center properties were to decline due to deteriorating economic conditions, the tenants may be unable to pay their base rents or meet other lease charges and fees due to FREIT. In addition, any lease provisions providing for additional rent based on a percentage of sales could be rendered moot. In the event of default by a tenant, FREIT could suffer a loss of rent and experience extraordinary delays while incurring additional costs in enforcing its rights under the lease, which may or may not be recaptured by FREIT. As at October 31, 2008 the following table lists the ten (10) largest commercial tenants, which account for approximately 51.1% of FREIT's leased commercial rental space and 37.0% of fixed commercial rents.

There is no assurance that we will be able to retain tenants at our commercial properties upon expiration of their leases. Upon expiration or termination of leases for space located in FREIT's commercial properties, the premises may not be relet or the terms of reletting (including the cost of concessions to tenants) may not be as favorable as lease terms for the terminated lease. If FREIT were unable to promptly relet all or a substantial portion of this space or if the rental rates upon such reletting were significantly lower than current or expected rates, FREIT's revenues and earnings, FREIT's ability to service its debt, and FREIT's ability to make expected distributions to its shareholders, could be adversely affected. During Fiscal 2008 and Fiscal 2007 there were no material lease expirations, and there are no material lease expirations expected during Fiscal 2009.

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

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

Impact of Governmental Laws and Regulations on Registrant's Business

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adverse Changes in General Economic Climate :  FREIT derives the majority of its revenues from renting apartments to individuals or families, and from retailers renting space at its shopping centers. An adverse decline in general economic conditions, particularly in New Jersey and Maryland, where a majority of our properties are located, may cause reductions in rental revenues. A decline in general economic conditions may cause apartment tenants to double-up or vacate, causing increases in vacancies, or to resist rent increases. Additionally, a general decline in economic conditions may cause a lack of consumer confidence, resulting in lower levels of consumer spending that could adversely affect the financial condition of some of our retail tenants, resulting in their inability to pay rent and/or expense recovery charges (represents recovery of certain common area maintenance charges, including insurance and real estate taxes). These retail tenants may vacate or fail to exercise renewal options for their space.

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

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

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

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

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

FREIT currently has approximately $164.8 million of non-recourse mortgage debt subject to fixed interest rates, and $27.6 million of partial recourse mortgage debt subject to variable interest rates ($22.5 million relates to the acquisition of the Rotunda property, and $5.1 million relates to the Damascus redevelopment project). These mortgages are being repaid over periods (amortization schedules) that are longer than the terms of the mortgages. Accordingly, when the mortgages become due (at various times) significant balloon payments (the unpaid principal amounts) will be required.  FREIT expects to refinance the individual mortgages with new mortgages when their terms expire. To this extent we have exposure to capital availability and interest rate risk. If interest rates, at the time any individual mortgage note is due, are higher than the current fixed interest rate, higher debt service may be required and/or refinancing proceeds may be less than the amount of the mortgage debt being retired. Our $22.5 million Rotunda acquisition loan matures on July 19, 2009. FREIT is exploring the extension of the loan ' s maturity date or replacement of the loan.

To the extent we are unable to refinance our indebtedness on acceptable terms, we may need to dispose of one or more of our properties upon disadvantageous terms.

Our revolving $18 million credit line (of which $17.6 million is available as of October 31, 2008) and our acquisition mortgage loan contain financial covenants that could restrict our acquisition activities and result in a default on these loans if we fail to satisfy these covenants.

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

FREIT has cash and cash equivalents deposited in certain banking institutions that exceed federally insured limits (currently $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, which amount is scheduled to be reduced to $100,000 after December 2009).  A failure of any banking institution in which we have funds on deposit may result in a loss of our deposits of amounts in excess of the then federally insured limit.  The loss of such deposits would reduce cash available to fund operations and pay dividends.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

None.

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

Supplemental Segment Information:

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

The following table lists FREIT's properties that have contributed approximately 15% of FREIT's total revenue in one (1) or more of the last three (3) fiscal years.

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

Except for the Pathmark supermarket super store located in Patchogue, Long Island, the Commerce Bank branch located in Rockaway, NJ and the Pascack Community Bank branch to be constructed on our land in Rochelle Park, NJ, all of FREIT's and its subsidiaries' commercial properties have multiple tenants.

FREIT and its subsidiaries' commercial properties have eighteen (18) anchor / major tenants, that account for approximately 64% of the space leased. The balance of the space is leased to one hundred and seventy six (176) satellite and office tenants. The following table lists the anchor / major tenants at each center and the number of satellite tenants:  

With respect to most of FREIT's commercial properties, lease terms range from five (5) years to twenty-five (25) years with options, which if exercised would extend the terms of such leases. The lease agreements generally provide for reimbursement of real estate taxes, maintenance, insurance and certain other operating expenses of the properties. During the last three (3) completed fiscal years, FREIT's commercial properties averaged a 90.1% occupancy rate with respect to FREIT's available leasable space.

Leases for FREIT's apartment buildings and complexes are usually one (1) year in duration. Even though the residential units are leased on a short-term basis, FREIT has averaged, during the last three (3) completed fiscal years, a 95.1% occupancy rate with respect to FREIT's available apartment units.

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

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

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

There were no matters submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of FREIT's 2008 fiscal year.

PART I I

Shares of Beneficial Interest

Beneficial interests in FREIT are represented by shares without par value (the "Shares"). The Shares represent FREIT's only authorized, issued and outstanding class of equity. As of January 13, 2009, there were approximately 500 holders of record of the Shares.

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

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

Share Repurchase Program

Information regarding FREIT's share repurchase program under Rules 10b-18 and 10b5-1 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, for the three (3) months ended October 31, 2008 is as follows:

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities (1)(2) (3)(4)

Dividends

The holders of Shares are entitled to receive distributions as may be declared by FREIT's Board of Trustees. Dividends may be declared from time to time by the Board of Trustees and may be paid in cash, property, or Shares. The Board of Trustees' present policy is to distribute annually at least ninety percent (90%) of FREIT's REIT taxable income as dividends to the holders of Shares in order to qualify as a REIT for Federal income tax purposes. Distributions are made on a quarterly basis. In Fiscal 2008 and Fiscal 2007, FREIT paid or declared aggregate total dividends of $1.20 and $1.30 per share, respectively, to the holders of shares. See "Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Distributions to Shareholders."

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

Refer to "Item 12, Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters."

The selected consolidated financial data for FREIT for each of the five (5) fiscal years in the period ended October 31, 2008 are derived from financial statements herein or previously filed financial statements. This data should be read in conjunction with "Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" of this Annual Report and with FREIT's consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this Annual Report. 

* Includes gain on disposal of $3,680 and $12,681 in fiscal years 2007 and 2004 respectively.

Overview

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

The global economic and financial crisis:

The current extraordinary and unprecedented bank liquidity and credit market crisis has exacerbated an already weakened economic climate resulting in a deep U.S. and worldwide recession.  Continued concern about energy costs, inflation, cost and availability of credit, and increasing unemployment have resulted in an unprecedented lack of confidence by consumers and businesses.  It is expected that this poor economic climate will continue, until at least mid 2009, and possibly longer.

This economic and financial crisis has affected, and will continue to affect FREIT in a number of ways:

Residential Properties: While the occupancy at our residential properties remains high, we are beginning to experience resistance to rent increases, granting concessions, a higher number of move-outs and higher than usual incidences of late or defaulted monthly rental payments.  We expect this trend to continue through 2009 and result in residential revenues to be flat or slightly lower than during fiscal 2008.

Commercial Properties: Because of reduced consumer spending resulting in lower profitability, commercial tenants, large and small, are requesting rent reductions, or lower renewal option rents.  To date we have experienced little fall-out. However, we expect to see a fall out of some smaller tenants, and if the recession is prolonged, some larger tenants.  We expect releasing vacated space to take longer and, generally, at lower rents that reflect current economic conditions. Again, we expect revenues at our commercial properties to be flat or slightly lower during fiscal 2009 than during fiscal 2008.

Development Projects and Capital Expenditures:   We plan to significantly reduce capital expenditures during fiscal 2009 compared to prior years by concentrating only on those capital expenditures that are absolutely necessary. We continue to pursue the completion of the development and construction activities started at our Damascus Shopping Center in Damascus, MD. Because of reduced demand from residential rental tenants and buyers, curtailed business expansion, and the current state of the credit markets, no date has been determined for the commencement of construction at our Rotunda and South Brunswick projects.

Debt Financing Availability: The dislocations in the credit markets have caused significant price volatility and liquidity disruptions. High pricing spreads and very conservative debt service ratio requirements have made certain financing unattractive, and in certain instances, unavailable. Additionally, construction financing for large, mixed use projects is virtually unavailable, or too costly. As a result of this difficult financing environment and reduced end user demand (see above) FREIT has elected to postpone its development activities at its Rotunda Project.

FREIT's one refinancing requirement coming due during fiscal 2009, is its $22.5 million acquisition loan at its Rotunda project. FREIT is exploring the extension of the loan ' s maturity date or replacement of the loan.

Operating Cash Flow and Dividend Distributions: FREIT's cash position remains strong. We expect that cash provided by operating activities will be adequate to cover mandatory debt service payments, necessary capital improvements and dividends necessary to retain qualification as a REIT. Additionally, FREIT has embarked on an extraordinary program to reduce operating expenses across the board to increase cash flow. Because of the current economic crisis, FREIT's Board of Trustees elected to reduce fiscal 2008 dividends to $1.20 per share from $1.30 per share payable for fiscal 2007. Additionally, it is FREIT's intention to maintain its quarterly dividend a $.30 per share until the economic climate indicates a change is appropriate.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

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

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, the preparation of which takes into account estimates based on judgments and assumptions that affect certain amounts and disclosures. Accordingly, actual results could differ from these estimates. The accounting policies and estimates used, which are outlined in Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements which is presented elsewhere in this Form 10-K, have been applied consistently as at October 31, 2008 and 2007, and for the years ended October 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006. We believe that the following accounting policies or estimates require the application of Management's most difficult, subjective, or complex judgments:

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

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

In October 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." SFAS No. 144 requires the reporting of discontinued operations to include components of an entity that have either been disposed of or are classified as held for sale. FREIT has adopted SFAS No. 144. During 2007, FREIT sold its Lakewood, NJ property. FREIT has reclassified the net income (loss) from the operation of this property as Discontinued Operations for all periods presented. The adoption of SFAS No. 144 did not have an impact on net income, but only impacted the presentation of this property within the consolidated statements of income. The results of this reclassification can be seen in "Item 6 Selected Financial Data" above and in the Consolidated Financial Statements of FREIT (including related notes thereto) appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-K.

Since we consider net income from continuing operations to be the most significant element of net income, all references and comparisons refer to this item unless otherwise stated. All references to per share amounts are on a diluted basis (unless otherwise indicated), and refer to earnings per share from continuing operations and have been adjusted to reflect the one-for-one share dividends paid in October 2001 and March 2004.

Results of Operations:

Fiscal Years Ended October 31, 2008 and 2007

Revenue for Fiscal 2008 increased 3.9% to $42,340,000 compared to $40,738,000 for Fiscal 2007. The favorable increase in revenues was attributable to both of FREIT's real estate segments, with the commercial segment contributing 65% of the increase, and the residential segment contributing 35% of the increase.

The schedule below provides a detailed analysis of the major changes that impacted revenue and net income for Fiscal 2008 and 2007:

SEGMENT INFORMATION

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

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

COMMERCIAL SEGMENT

The commercial segment contained ten (10) separate properties during Fiscal 2008 and Fiscal 2007. Seven are multi-tenanted retail or office centers, and one is a single tenanted store. In addition, FREIT owns land in Rockaway, NJ and Rochelle Park, NJ from which it receives monthly rental income. The Rockaway land is leased to a tenant who has built and operates a bank branch on the land. In Rochelle Park, FREIT leases the land to a tenant who plans to build and operate a bank branch on the land.

Revenue and NOI from FREIT's commercial segment for Fiscal 2008 increased $1.3 million (6.1%) and $1.1 million (8.6%), respectively, over Fiscal 2007. The primary reasons for the increase in revenue and NOI, not including Damascus, were higher occupancy levels at Westridge Square, Westwood Plaza and The Rotunda, a full-year's revenue with respect to FREIT's Rochelle Park land lease and an increase in reimbursable operating expenses over last year, specifically at The Rotunda. The increase in revenue and NOI was tempered slightly by the effect of the anticipated planned renovation at our Damascus Shopping Center (the "Damascus Center"), which caused a temporary decline in occupancy levels (see discussion below). Average occupancy rates for FREIT's commercial segment for Fiscal 2008 was at 95.1%, exclusive of the Damascus Center, compared to 94.6% for Fiscal 2007. Occupancy rates for the Damascus Center decreased to 47.7% for Fiscal 2008 from 55.9% for Fiscal 2007.

The impact of this renovation on the year-to-date results of the commercial segment is reflected in the following table:

Revenues and NOI for same properties increased 6% and 8% respectively for Fiscal 2008 over Fiscal 2007.

DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES

A modernization and expansion is underway at our Damascus Center in Damascus, MD (owned by our 70% owned affiliate, Damascus Centre, LLC). Total construction costs are expected to approximate $21.9 million. The building plans incorporate an expansion of retail space from its current configuration of approximately 140,000 sq. ft. to approximately 150,000 sq. ft., which will be anchored by a modern 58,000 sq. ft. Safeway supermarket. Building plans for Phase I have been approved and construction on Phase I began in June 2007, and was completed in June 2008. Phase I construction costs were approximately $6.2 million, of which $1.1 million related to tenant improvements. On February 12, 2008, Damascus Centre, LLC closed on a $27.3 million construction loan that is available to fund already expended and future construction costs.  This loan will be drawn upon as needed. As of October 31, 2008, Damascus drew down $5.1 million of this loan to cover construction costs. (See "Liquidity and Capital Resources" for additional information regarding this loan.) Because of this expansion, leases for certain tenants have been allowed to expire and not renewed. This has caused occupancy to decline, on a temporary basis, during the construction phase.

Development plans and studies for the expansion and renovation of our Rotunda property in Baltimore, MD (owned by our 60% owned affiliate Grande Rotunda, LLC) have been completed during Fiscal 2008. The Rotunda property, on an 11.5-acre site, currently consists of an office building containing 138,000 sq. ft. of office space and 78,000 sq. ft. of retail space on the lower floor of the main building. The building plans incorporate an expansion of approximately 180,500 sq. ft. of retail space, approximately 302 residential rental apartments, 56 condominium units and 120 hotel rooms, and structured parking. Development costs for this project are expected to approximate  $200 million. City Planning Board approval has been received. As of October 31, 2008, we have expended approximately $5.0 million for planning and feasibility studies. Due to the current economic and credit crisis, the start date for the construction has not yet been determined.

RESIDENTIAL SEGMENT

During Fiscal 2008 and Fiscal 2007, FREIT operated nine (9) multi-family apartment communities totaling 1,075 apartment units, excluding the Lakewood property that was sold during Fiscal 2007. (See Note 3 for a further discussion of the sale.)

During Fiscal 2008 revenues increased $565,000 (3.0%) to $19,191,000 and NOI increased $438,000 (4.1%) to $11,012,000 over Fiscal 2007. The favorable results at FREIT's residential segment for Fiscal 2008 was primarily attributable to the contribution made by The Boulders, which accounted for 57% and 50% of the increase in revenues and NOI, respectively. Average occupancy rates for FREIT's residential segment for Fiscal 2008 and 2007 was level at 95%. However, average occupancy at The Boulders increased to 97% for Fiscal 2008, compared to 88% for last year's comparable period.

The occupancy at our residential properties remains high. However, due to the current economic crisis causing high unemployment in our areas of operation, we are experiencing resistance to rent increases, granting concessions, a higher number of move-outs and higher than usual incidences of late or defaulted monthly rental payments.  We expect this trend to continue through 2009 and result in residential revenues to be flat or slightly lower than during Fiscal 2008.

Our residential revenue is principally composed of monthly apartment rental income. Total rental income is a factor of occupancy and monthly apartment rents. A 1% decline in annual average occupancy, or a 1% decline in average rents from current levels, results in an annual revenue decline of approximately $200,000 and $188,000 respectively.

Capital expenditures: During Fiscal 2008 we expended $424,000 ($626 per apartment unit) excluding The Pierre and the newly constructed Boulders. Since our apartment communities were constructed more than 25 years ago, we tend to spend more in any given year on maintenance and capital improvements than may be spent on newer properties.

At The Pierre, a major renovation program is ongoing. We are in the process of modernizing, where required, all apartments and some of the building's mechanical services. This renovation is expected to cost approximately $3 - $4 million and apartments are to be renovated as they become temporarily vacant, over the next several years. These costs will be financed from operating cash flow and cash reserves. Through October 31, 2008, we expended approximately $2.9 million in capital improvements at The Pierre, including approximately $205,000 during Fiscal 2008.

NET INVESTMENT INCOME

Net investment income decreased 13% to $554,000 during Fiscal 2008 from $634,000 in Fiscal 2007. Net investment income is principally derived from interest earned from cash on deposit in institutional money market funds and interest earned from secured loans receivable (loans made to Hekemian employees, including certain members of the immediate family of Robert S. Hekemian, FREIT CEO and Chairman of the Board and Robert S. Hekemian, Jr., a trustee of FREIT, for their equity investment in Grande Rotunda, LLC, a limited liability company, in which FREIT owns a 60% equity interest and Damascus Centre, LLC, a limited liability company, in which FREIT owns a 70% equity interest). The decrease in net investment income for the current year was primarily attributable to lower interest income on the Company's investments, due in part to lower interest rates and a decrease in the level of investable cash for Fiscal 2008, as funds were used for construction and development activities. Slightly offsetting the decrease in investment income was increased interest income relative to secured loans made to Hekemian employees in connection with the sale of equity interests in the Rotunda and the Damascus Center.

FINANCING COSTS

Financing costs for Fiscal 2008 decreased by $340,000 (2.9%) compared to Fiscal 2007. The principal reasons for the decrease were attributable to lower interest rates relative to The Rotunda acquisition loan of $22.5 million, which bears a floating interest rate, coupled with an increase in capitalized interest related to ongoing capital projects. Lower interest rates over the course of the last year decreased the level of interest expense for The Rotunda by $382,000, to $1,198,000 for Fiscal 2008.

GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

General and administrative expenses ("G&A") for Fiscal 2008 were $1,542,000, level with Fiscal 2007. The primary components of G&A are accounting & professional fees and Trustees fees, which, in the aggregate, comprise 77% of total G&A.

DEPRECIATION

Depreciation expense in Fiscal 2008 increased $311,000 (5.9%) to $5,622,000 from $5,311,000 for Fiscal 2007. The increase was primarily attributable to depreciation related to the June 2008 completion of Phase I of the Damascus Centre redevelopment project, in addition to capital improvements at FREIT's Westridge Square Shopping Center in Frederick, MD.

Results of Operations:

Fiscal Years Ended October 31, 2007 and 2006

Summary revenues and net income for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2007 ("Fiscal 2007") and October 31, 2006 ("Fiscal 2006") are as follows:

Revenue for Fiscal 2007 increased 7.5% to $40,738,000 compared to $37,893,000 for Fiscal 2006. The increase in real estate revenues was principally attributable to FREIT's residential operations, primarily at The Boulders in Rockaway Township, NJ, which accounted for 69.2% of the increase in revenues.

Net income for Fiscal 2007 was $8,943,000 ($1.29 diluted) compared to $5,158,000 ($0.76 diluted) for the prior year. Income from continuing operations for Fiscal 2007 was $5,172,000 ($0.74 diluted) compared to $4,995,000 ($0.73 diluted) for the prior year. The schedule below provides a detailed analysis of the major changes that impacted revenue and net income for Fiscal 2007 and 2006:

SEGMENT INFORMATION

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