Agree Realty Corp
NYSE:ADC
Agree Realty Corp
In the realm of real estate investment trusts (REITs), Agree Realty Corporation has carved a niche for itself by specializing in retail properties. Founded in 1971, the company has grown its portfolio to include predominantly free-standing, net-leased properties across the United States. Unlike many traditional landlords, Agree Realty's business model revolves around the net lease structure, where tenants are responsible for most, if not all, property-related expenses such as maintenance, insurance, and taxes. This model not only mitigates risk but also provides a predictable stream of income, since tenants are mainly high-quality, creditworthy retailers that agree to long-term leases. This strategic positioning allows Agree Realty to limit its exposure to the volatility often seen in retail and focus on generating stable revenue streams.
Agree Realty’s business agility is reflected in its tenant base and proactive acquisition strategy. The majority of its properties are leased to national tenants with a focus on recognized leaders in various retail sectors, including grocery, drugstores, and dollar stores—industries known for their resilience against economic downturns and e-commerce pressures. By concentrating on properties with essential retail tenants, Agree Realty captures a reliable cash flow and higher occupancy rates. Furthermore, the company continuously expands its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, which are meticulously selected based on rigorous market analyses and financial merit, ensuring these properties align with their long-term growth objectives. Through this model, Agree Realty not only fortifies its income stability but also retains the flexibility to adapt its portfolio in response to evolving market trends.
In the realm of real estate investment trusts (REITs), Agree Realty Corporation has carved a niche for itself by specializing in retail properties. Founded in 1971, the company has grown its portfolio to include predominantly free-standing, net-leased properties across the United States. Unlike many traditional landlords, Agree Realty's business model revolves around the net lease structure, where tenants are responsible for most, if not all, property-related expenses such as maintenance, insurance, and taxes. This model not only mitigates risk but also provides a predictable stream of income, since tenants are mainly high-quality, creditworthy retailers that agree to long-term leases. This strategic positioning allows Agree Realty to limit its exposure to the volatility often seen in retail and focus on generating stable revenue streams.
Agree Realty’s business agility is reflected in its tenant base and proactive acquisition strategy. The majority of its properties are leased to national tenants with a focus on recognized leaders in various retail sectors, including grocery, drugstores, and dollar stores—industries known for their resilience against economic downturns and e-commerce pressures. By concentrating on properties with essential retail tenants, Agree Realty captures a reliable cash flow and higher occupancy rates. Furthermore, the company continuously expands its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, which are meticulously selected based on rigorous market analyses and financial merit, ensuring these properties align with their long-term growth objectives. Through this model, Agree Realty not only fortifies its income stability but also retains the flexibility to adapt its portfolio in response to evolving market trends.
Strong AFFO Growth: AFFO per share grew 4.6% in 2025, with 2026 guidance targeting 5.4% growth at the midpoint—the highest since 2022.
Raised Investment Guidance: 2026 investment guidance increased by about 10% to $1.4–$1.6 billion, reflecting a strong pipeline and new deals.
Robust Balance Sheet: Ended 2025 with over $2 billion in liquidity and no major debt maturities until 2028, enabling flexibility and growth.
Capital Markets Activity: Raised $1.5 billion in long-term capital and became one of 19 US REITs with a commercial paper program.
High-Quality Portfolio: Portfolio occupancy reached 99.7%, with 67% investment grade tenants and nearly 2,700 properties.
Dividend Growth: Annualized dividend rose 3.6% to $3.14 per share, with a conservative payout ratio of 71% of AFFO.
Operational Efficiencies: IT and process improvements expected to lower G&A as a percentage of revenue by ~30 bps.
