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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Presentation – On March 9, 2023, the Company effected a one-for-four reverse stock split of its issued, outstanding and authorized shares of common stock (the "Reverse Stock Split"). Accordingly, all common share and per common share data for all periods presented in these consolidated financial statements and notes thereto have been adjusted on a retroactive basis to reflect the impact of the Reverse Stock Split.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and 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. Management has made significant estimates in several areas, including fair valuation of its residential loans, multi-family loans, certain equity investments, Consolidated SLST CDOs, real estate held by Consolidated VIEs and redemption value of redeemable non-controlling interests in Consolidated VIEs. Although the Company’s estimates contemplate current conditions and how it expects those conditions to change in the future, it is reasonably possible that actual conditions could be different than anticipated in those estimates, which could materially impact the Company’s results of operations and its financial condition.
Reclassifications
Reclassifications – Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified on the accompanying consolidated financial statements to conform to current period presentation. In particular, prior period disclosures have been adjusted for the aforementioned Reverse Stock Split.
Additionally, prior period disclosures have been conformed to the current period presentation of net loss from real estate. Beginning in the third quarter of 2023, the components of net loss from real estate, inclusive of rental income and other real estate income and interest expense, mortgages payable on real estate, depreciation and amortization and other real estate expenses, are presented as total net loss from real estate on the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Previously, rental income, other real estate income and total income from real estate was presented in other income (loss) and interest expense, mortgages payable on real estate, depreciation and amortization, other real estate expenses and total expenses related to real estate were presented in general, administrative and operating expenses on the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Prior to the fourth quarter of 2022, interest expense, mortgages payable on real estate was presented in interest expense and net interest income on the Company's consolidated statements of operations.

Also beginning in the third quarter of 2023, unrealized gains (losses) and realized gains (losses) on derivative instruments are presented in gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net on the Company's consolidated statements of operations. Previously, unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments were presented in unrealized gains (losses), net and realized gains (losses) on derivative instruments were presented in realized gains (losses), net on the Company's consolidated statements of operations.
Principles of Consolidation and Variable Interest Entities
Principles of Consolidation and Variable Interest Entities – The accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company include the accounts of all its subsidiaries which are majority-owned, controlled by the Company or a variable interest entity (“VIE”) where the Company is the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation (see Note 7).

A VIE is an entity that lacks one or more of the characteristics of a voting interest entity. A VIE is defined as an entity in which equity investors do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties. The Company consolidates a VIE in accordance with ASC 810, Consolidation ("ASC 810") when it is the primary beneficiary of such VIE, herein referred to as a “Consolidated VIE”. As primary beneficiary, the Company has both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and a right to receive benefits or absorb losses of the entity that could be potentially significant to the VIE. The Company is required to reconsider its evaluation of whether to consolidate a VIE each reporting period, based upon changes in the facts and circumstances pertaining to the VIE.

The Company evaluates the initial consolidation of each Consolidated VIE, which includes a determination of whether the VIE constitutes the definition of a business in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations ("ASC 805"), by considering if substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets within the VIE are concentrated in either a single identifiable asset or group of single identifiable assets. Upon consolidation, the Company recognizes the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any third-party ownership of membership interests as non-controlling interest as of the consolidation or acquisition date, measured at their relative fair values (see Note 7). Non-controlling interest in Consolidated VIEs is adjusted prospectively for its share of the allocation of income or loss and equity contributions and distributions from each respective Consolidated VIE. The third-party owners of certain of the non-controlling interests in Consolidated VIEs have the ability to sell their ownership interests to the Company, at their election, subject to certain conditions. The Company has classified these third-party ownership interests as redeemable non-controlling interest in Consolidated VIEs in mezzanine equity on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See "Redeemable Non-Controlling Interest in Consolidated VIEs" below for further discussion of redeemable non-controlling interest in Consolidated VIEs.
Redeemable Non-Controlling Interest in Consolidated VIEs – The Company evaluates whether non-controlling interests are subject to redemption features outside of its control. The Company classifies non-controlling interests that are currently redeemable for cash at the option of the holders or are probable of becoming redeemable as redeemable non-controlling interest in the mezzanine equity on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The third-party owners of certain of the non-controlling interests in Consolidated VIEs have the ability to sell their ownership interests to the Company for cash, at their election, subject to annual minimum and maximum amount limitations. As a result, the Company has classified these third-party ownership interests as redeemable non-controlling interest in Consolidated VIEs. The redeemable non-controlling interest in Consolidated VIEs is recorded at the greater of the carrying amount, adjusted for its share of the allocation of income or loss and equity contributions and distributions, or the redemption value, which is equivalent to fair value, of such ownership interests. Adjustments to redemption value, if any, are recorded to the Company's additional paid-in capital and redeemable non-controlling interest in Consolidated VIEs.
Residential Loans
Residential Loans – The Company’s acquired residential loans, including performing, re-performing and non-performing residential loans and business purpose loans are presented at fair value on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets pursuant to a fair value option election in accordance with ASC 825, Financial Instruments (“ASC 825”). Changes in fair value are recorded in current period earnings in unrealized gains (losses), net on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Residential loans include seasoned re-performing and non-performing residential loans held in a Freddie Mac-sponsored residential loan securitization, of which we own the first loss subordinated securities and certain IOs issued by this securitization, and that we consolidate in our financial statements in accordance with GAAP (“Consolidated SLST”). Based on a number of factors, management determined that the Company was the primary beneficiary of Consolidated SLST and met the criteria for consolidation and, accordingly, has consolidated the securitization, including its assets, liabilities, income and expenses in our financial statements. The Company has elected the fair value option on each of the assets and liabilities held within Consolidated SLST, which requires that changes in valuations be reflected on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. In accordance with ASC 810, the Company measures both the financial assets and financial liabilities of a qualifying consolidated collateralized financing entity (“CFE”) using the fair value of either the CFE’s financial assets or financial liabilities, whichever is more observable. As the related securitization trust is considered a qualifying CFE, the Company determines the fair value of the residential loans held in Consolidated SLST based on the fair value of its residential collateralized debt obligations and the Company's investment in the securitization (eliminated in consolidation in accordance with GAAP), as the fair value of these instruments is more observable.

Interest income is accrued and recognized as revenue when earned according to the terms of the residential loans and when, in the opinion of management, it is collectible. Residential loans are considered past due when they are 30 days past their contractual due date, and are placed on nonaccrual status when delinquent for more than 90 days or when, in management's opinion, the interest is not collectible in the normal course of business. Interest accrued but not yet collected at the time loans are placed on nonaccrual status is reversed and subsequently recognized only to the extent it is received in cash or until it qualifies for return to accrual status. Loans are restored to accrual status only when contractually current or the collection of future payments is reasonably assured.

Premiums and discounts associated with the purchase of residential loans are amortized or accreted into interest income over the life of the related loan using the effective interest method. Any premium amortization or discount accretion is reflected as a component of interest income on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Real estate owned property acquired through, or in lieu of, foreclosure of residential loans is initially recorded at fair value, and subsequently reported at the lower of its carrying amount or fair value (less estimated cost to sell). Changes in the fair value of a real estate owned property that has a fair value at or below its carrying amount are recorded in other (loss) income on our consolidated statements of operations. Fair values are determined using available market quotes, appraisals, broker price opinions, comparable properties, or other indications of value.
Investment Securities Available for Sale
Investment Securities Available for Sale – The Company’s investment securities, where the fair value option has not been elected and which are reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported in Other Comprehensive Income (“OCI”), include non-Agency RMBS (collectively, "CECL Securities"). Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company made a fair value election at the time of acquisition of newly purchased investment securities pursuant to ASC 825. The fair value option was elected for these investment securities to provide stockholders and others who rely on our financial statements with a more complete and accurate understanding of our economic performance. Changes in fair value of investment securities subject to the fair value election are recorded in current period earnings in unrealized gains (losses), net on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

The Company generally intends to hold its investment securities until maturity; however, from time to time, it may sell any of its securities as part of the overall management of its business. As a result, our investment securities are classified as available for sale securities. Realized gains and losses recorded on the sale of investment securities available for sale are based on the specific identification method and included in realized gains (losses), net on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Interest income on our investment securities available for sale is accrued based on the outstanding principal balance and their contractual terms. Purchase premiums or discounts associated with Agency RMBS assessed as high credit quality at the time of purchase are amortized or accreted to interest income over the estimated life of these investment securities using the effective yield method.
Interest income on certain of our credit sensitive securities that were purchased at a premium or discount to par value, such as certain of our non-Agency RMBS, CMBS and ABS that are of less than high credit quality, is recognized based on the security’s effective yield. The effective yield on these securities is based on management’s estimate of the projected cash flows from each security, which incorporates assumptions related to fluctuations in interest rates, prepayment speeds and the timing and amount of credit losses. On at least a quarterly basis, management reviews and, if appropriate, adjusts its cash flow projections based on input and analysis received from external sources, internal models, and its judgment about interest rates, prepayment rates, the timing and amount of credit losses, and other factors. Changes in cash flows from those originally projected, or from those estimated at the last evaluation, may result in a prospective change in the yield (or interest income) recognized on these securities.

The Company accounts for investment securities that are of high credit quality (generally those rated AA or better by a Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization, or NRSRO) at the date of acquisition in accordance with ASC 320-10, Investments - Debt and Equity Securities (“ASC 320-10”). The Company accounts for investment securities that are not of high credit quality (i.e., those whose risk of loss is more than remote) or securities that can be contractually prepaid such that we would not recover our initial investment at the date of acquisition in accordance with ASC 325-40, Investments - Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets (“ASC 325-40”). The Company considers credit ratings, the underlying credit risk and other market factors in determining whether the investment securities are of high credit quality; however, securities rated lower than AA or an equivalent rating are not considered of high credit quality and are accounted for in accordance with ASC 325-40. If ratings are inconsistent among NRSROs, the Company uses the lower rating in determining whether the securities are of high credit quality.

When the fair value of a CECL security is less than its amortized cost as of the reporting balance sheet date, the security is considered impaired. If the Company intends to sell an impaired security, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the impaired security before its anticipated recovery, the Company recognizes a loss through earnings equal to the difference between the investment’s amortized cost and its fair value and reduces the amortized cost basis to the fair value as of the balance sheet date. If the Company does not expect to sell an impaired security, it performs an analysis to determine if a portion of the impairment is a result of credit losses. The portion of the impairment related to credit losses (limited by the difference between the fair value and amortized cost basis) is recognized through earnings and a corresponding allowance for credit losses is established against the amortized cost basis. The remainder of the impairment is recognized as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and does not impact earnings. Subsequent changes in the allowance for credit losses are recorded through earnings with reversals limited to the previously recorded allowance for credit losses. The determination of whether a credit loss exists, and if so, the amount considered to be a credit loss is subjective, as such determinations are based on both observable and subjective information available at the time of assessment as well as the Company's estimates of the future performance and cash flow projections. As a result, the timing and amount of credit losses may constitute material estimates that are susceptible to significant change.

In determining if a credit loss evaluation is required for securities that are impaired, the Company compares the present value of the remaining cash flows expected to be collected at the prior reporting date or purchase date, whichever is most recent, against the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected at the current financial reporting date. The Company considers information available about the past and expected future performance of underlying collateral, including timing of expected future cash flows, prepayment rates, default rates, loss severities and delinquency rates.
Multi-Family Loans
Multi-Family Loans – Multi-family loans include preferred equity investments in, and mezzanine loans to, entities that have multi-family real estate assets. A preferred equity investment is an equity investment in the entity that owns the underlying property. Preferred equity is not secured by the underlying property, but holders have priority relative to common equity holders on cash flow distributions and proceeds from capital events. In addition, preferred equity holders may be able to enhance their position and protect their equity position with covenants that limit the entity’s activities and grant the holder the exclusive right to control the property after an event of default.

Mezzanine loans are secured by a pledge of the borrower’s equity ownership in the property. Unlike a mortgage, this loan does not represent a lien on the property. Therefore, it is always junior and subordinate to any first lien as well as second liens, if applicable, on the property. These loans are senior to any preferred equity or common equity interests in the entity that owns the property.
The Company has evaluated its preferred equity and mezzanine loan investments for accounting treatment as loans versus equity investments utilizing the guidance provided by the Acquisition, Development and Construction Arrangements Subsection of ASC 310, Receivables. Preferred equity and mezzanine loan investments, for which the characteristics, facts and circumstances indicate that loan accounting treatment is appropriate, are stated at fair value. The Company elected the fair value option for its preferred equity and mezzanine loan investments because the Company determined that such presentation represents the underlying economics of the respective investment. Changes in fair value are recorded in current period earnings in unrealized gains (losses), net on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Interest income is accrued and recognized as revenue when earned according to the terms of the loans and when, in the opinion of management, it is collectible. The accrual of interest on loans is discontinued when, in management’s opinion, the interest is not collectible in the normal course of business, but in all cases when payment becomes greater than 90 days delinquent. Loans return to accrual status when principal and interest become current and are anticipated to be fully collectible. Fees or expenses related to the multi-family loans are recorded in total other income (loss).

Preferred equity investments where the risks and payment characteristics are equivalent to an equity investment are included in Equity Investments below.
Equity Investments
Equity Investments – Non-controlling, unconsolidated ownership interests in an entity may be accounted for using the equity method or the cost method. In circumstances where the Company has a non-controlling interest but either owns a significant interest or is able to exert influence over the affairs of the enterprise, the Company utilizes the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, the initial investment is increased each period for additional capital contributions and a proportionate share of the entity’s earnings or preferred return and decreased for cash distributions and a proportionate share of the entity’s losses. Equity investments also include certain of the Company's multi-family preferred equity investments where the risks and payment characteristics are equivalent to an equity investment. The Company records its equity in earnings or losses from these multi-family preferred equity investments under the hypothetical liquidation of book value method of accounting due to the structures and the preferences it receives on the distributions from these entities pursuant to the respective agreements. Under this method, the Company recognizes income or loss in each period based on the change in liquidation proceeds it would receive from a hypothetical liquidation of its investment.
The Company has elected the fair value option for all equity investments. The Company elected the fair value option for its equity investments in entities that own interests (directly or indirectly) in multi-family or residential real estate assets or loans or entities that originate residential loans because the Company determined that such presentation represents the underlying economics of the respective investment. The Company records the change in fair value of its investment in income from equity investments on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations (see Note 6).
Real Estate, Net
Real Estate, Net – Upon the acquisition of real estate properties which do not constitute the definition of a business, the Company records its initial investments in income-producing real estate as asset acquisitions at fair value as of the acquisition date. The purchase price of acquired properties is apportioned to the tangible and identified intangible assets and liabilities, if any, acquired at their respective estimated fair values. In making estimates of fair values for purposes of allocating purchase price, the Company utilizes a number of sources, including independent appraisals that may be obtained in connection with the acquisition or financing of the respective real estate, its own analysis of recently-acquired and existing comparable properties, property financial results, and other market data. The Company also considers information obtained about the real estate as a result of its due diligence, including marketing and leasing activities, in estimating the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired. The Company considers the value of acquired in-place leases and utilizes an amortization period that is the average remaining term of the acquired leases.

Rental revenue is recognized when earned from residents of the Company's real estate properties over the terms of the rental agreements, typically a duration of one year or less. The Company evaluates the collectability of amounts due from residents and recognizes revenue from residents when collectability is deemed probable. Other property revenues are recognized in the period earned.

Real Estate - Capitalization and Depreciation – The Company’s expenditures which directly relate to the acquisition, development, construction and improvement of properties are capitalized at cost. During the development period, which culminates once a property is substantially complete and ready for intended use, operating and carrying costs such as interest expense, real estate taxes, insurance and other direct costs are capitalized. Advertising and general administrative costs that do not relate to the development of a property are expensed as incurred.
Betterments and certain costs directly related to the improvement of real estate after the development period are capitalized. Expenditures for ordinary maintenance and repairs are expensed to operations as incurred. The Company depreciates on a straight-line basis the building component of its real estate over a 30-year estimated useful life, building and improvements over a 10-year to 30-year estimated useful life, and furniture, fixtures and equipment over a 5-year to 7.5-year estimated useful life, all of which are judgmental determinations.
Real Estate - Impairment
Real Estate - Impairment – The Company periodically evaluates its real estate assets for indicators of impairment. The judgments regarding the existence of impairment indicators are based on factors such as operational performance, market conditions and legal and environmental concerns, as well as the Company’s ability and intent to hold each asset. Future events could occur which would cause the Company to conclude that impairment indicators exist and an impairment is warranted. If impairment indicators exist for long-lived assets to be held and used, and the expected future undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset, then the Company will record an impairment loss for the difference between the fair value of the asset and its carrying amount. If the asset is to be disposed of, then an impairment loss is recognized for the difference between the estimated fair value of the asset, net of selling costs, and its carrying amount.
Held for Sale Determination and Real Estate Sales
Held for Sale Determinations – The Company considers its real estate and joint venture equity investments in multi-family properties to be held for sale when the following criteria are met: (i) management commits to a plan to sell the investments, (ii) investments are available for sale immediately, (iii) the investments are actively being marketed for sale at a price that is reasonable in relation to their current fair value, (iv) the sale of the investments within one year is considered probable and (v) significant changes to the plan to sell are not expected.

When real estate assets are identified as held for sale, the Company discontinues depreciating (amortizing) the assets and estimates the fair value, net of selling costs, of such assets. When joint venture investments are identified as held for sale, the Company transfers the related assets and liabilities to assets and liabilities of disposal group held for sale. Real estate held for sale (including real estate in disposal group held for sale) is recorded at the lower of the net carrying amount of the assets or the estimated net fair value. If the estimated net fair value of the real estate held for sale is less than the net carrying amount of the assets, an impairment of real estate charge is recorded in the consolidated statements of operations with an allocation to non-controlling interest in the respective Consolidated VIEs, if any.

The Company assesses the net fair value of real estate held for sale in each reporting period that the assets remain classified as held for sale. Subsequent changes, if any, in the net fair value of the real estate assets held for sale that require an adjustment to the carrying amount are recorded in impairment of real estate in the consolidated statements of operations with an allocation to non-controlling interest in the respective Consolidated VIEs, if any, unless the adjustment causes the carrying amount of the assets to exceed the net carrying amount upon initial classification as held for sale.

If circumstances arise that the Company previously considered unlikely and, as a result, the Company decides not to sell any real estate or joint venture equity investments previously classified as held for sale, the assets and liabilities are reclassified to held and used. Real estate assets that are reclassified are measured at the lower of (a) their carrying amount before they were classified as held for sale, adjusted for any depreciation (amortization) expense that would have been recognized had the assets remained in their previous classification, or (b) their fair value at the date of the subsequent decision not to sell the real estate or joint venture equity investment and adjustments, if any, are reported in loss on reclassification of disposal group in the consolidated statements of operations.

Real Estate Sales – The Company accounts for its real estate sales in accordance with ASC 610-20, Other Income - Gains and Losses from Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets ("ASC 610-20"), which applies to sales or transfers to noncustomers of nonfinancial or in substance nonfinancial assets that do not meet the definition of a business. Generally, The Company's sales of real estate would be considered a sale of a nonfinancial asset as defined in ASC 610-20. Under ASC 610-20, if the Company determines it does not have a controlling financial interest in the entity to which the real estate is transferred and the arrangement meets the criteria to be accounted for as a contract in accordance with ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, the Company derecognizes the asset and recognizes a gain or loss on the sale of the real estate when control of the underlying asset transfers to the buyer. Gain or loss on sale of real estate is included in other income (loss) in the consolidated statements of operations with an allocation to non-controlling interest in the respective Consolidated VIEs, if any.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents – Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from banks and overnight deposits. The Company maintains its cash and cash equivalents in highly rated financial institutions, and at times these balances exceed insurable amounts.
Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets – Intangible assets consisting of acquired trade name, acquired technology and acquired in-place leases with useful lives ranging from 5 months to 10 years are included in other assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Intangible assets with estimable useful lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over their respective estimated useful lives and reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The useful lives of intangible assets are evaluated on an annual basis to determine whether events and circumstances warrant a revision to the remaining useful life. See "Real Estate, Net" for further discussion of acquired in-place lease intangible assets.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments – The Company enters into various types of derivative financial instruments in connection with its risk management activities which are recorded on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as assets or liabilities at fair value in accordance with ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”). Changes in fair value are accounted for depending on the use of the derivative financial instruments and whether they qualify for hedge accounting treatment. The Company elected not to apply hedge accounting for its derivative financial instruments; accordingly, all changes in fair value are reported on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations as gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net.

The Company is subject to interest rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. Primarily to help mitigate interest rate risk, the Company may enter into interest rate swaps. Interest rate swaps are contractual agreements whereby one party pays a floating interest rate on a notional principal amount and receives a fixed-rate payment on the same notional principal, or vice versa, for a fixed period of time. Interest rate swaps change in value with movements in interest rates. All of the Company’s interest rate swaps are cleared through a central clearing house which requires that the Company post an initial margin amount determined by the central clearing house, which is generally intended to be set at a level sufficient to protect the exchange from the derivative financial instrument’s maximum estimated single-day price movement. The Company also exchanges variation margin based upon daily changes in fair value, as measured by the central clearing house. The exchange of variation margin is treated as a legal settlement of the exposure under the interest rate swap contract, as opposed to pledged collateral. Accordingly, the Company accounts for the receipt or payment of variation margin as a direct reduction to or increase in the carrying value of the interest rate swap asset or liability. The receipt or payment of initial margin is accounted for separate from the interest rate swap asset or liability and classified within restricted cash and included in other assets on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Any additional amounts due from or due to counterparties in connection with the Company's interest rate swaps, are included in other assets or other liabilities, respectively, on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

The Company also has interest rate cap contracts that limit the cash payments on the indexed portion of the interest rate on a repurchase agreement and certain variable-rate mortgages payable in Consolidated VIEs.

Cash flow activity related to derivative instruments is reflected within the operating activities and investing activities sections of the Company's consolidated statements of cash flows. Realized gains or losses, if any, and unrealized gains or losses, if any, on the Company's derivative instruments are included in the gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net line item within the operating activities section of the consolidated statements of cash flows. Additionally, any changes in amounts due from or due to counterparties in connection with the Company's interest rate swaps are included in the changes in operating assets and liabilities line item of the consolidated statements of cash flows. The remaining cash flow activity related to derivative instruments is reflected within the net payments received from (made on) derivative instruments and net variation margin received (paid) for derivative instruments line items within the investing activities section of the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Repurchase Agreements
Repurchase Agreements, Residential Loans – As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company financed a portion of its residential loans through repurchase agreements (see Note 12). Amounts outstanding under the repurchase agreements generally bear interest rates of a specified margin over various tenors of SOFR or an interest rate floor, as applicable per the terms of the agreements. The repurchase agreements are treated as collateralized financing transactions and are carried at their contractual amounts, as specified in the respective agreements. Costs related to the establishment of the repurchase agreements which include underwriting, legal, accounting and other fees are reflected as deferred charges. Such costs are presented as a deduction from the corresponding debt liability on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the deferred charges are amortized as an adjustment to interest expense using the effective interest method, or straight line-method, if the result is not materially different.
Repurchase Agreements, Investment Securities – The Company finances certain of its investment securities available for sale, securities owned in Consolidated SLST and CDOs repurchased from our residential loan securitizations using repurchase agreements. Under a repurchase agreement, an asset is sold to a counterparty to be repurchased at a future date at a predetermined price, which represents the original sales price plus interest. The repurchase agreements are treated as collateralized financing transactions and are carried at their contractual amounts, as specified in the respective agreements. Borrowings under repurchase agreements generally bear interest rates of a specified margin over SOFR.
Collateralized Debt Obligations
Collateralized Debt Obligations – The Company records collateralized debt obligations used to permanently finance the residential loans held in Consolidated SLST and the Company's residential loans held in securitization trusts as debt on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. For financial reporting purposes, the loans and investment securities held as collateral for these obligations are recorded as assets of the Company.

Senior Unsecured Notes - On April 27, 2021, the Company issued its 5.75% Senior Notes due 2026 to originate new investments, repay outstanding indebtedness and for general corporate purposes. The Company evaluated the call option feature of these notes for embedded derivatives in accordance with ASC 815 and determined that the call option feature should not be bifurcated from the notes.
Convertible Notes – Prior to December 31, 2021, the Company issued its 6.25% Senior Convertible Notes due 2022 (the “Convertible Notes”) to finance the acquisition of targeted assets and for general working capital purposes. The Company evaluated the conversion features of the Convertible Notes for embedded derivatives in accordance with ASC 815 and determined that the conversion features should not be bifurcated from the notes. The Company redeemed the Convertible Notes at maturity for $138.0 million on January 15, 2022. None of the Convertible Notes were converted prior to maturity.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) – The Company’s comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the Company’s common stockholders includes net income (loss), the change in fair value of its available for sale securities purchased prior to October 2019, adjusted by realized net gains (losses) reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for available for sale securities, reduced by dividends declared on the Company’s preferred stock and charges related to redemptions of the Company's preferred stock, increased for gains on repurchases of preferred stock and increased (decreased) for net loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interest in Consolidated VIEs. See “Investment Securities Available for Sale” for discussion of the reporting of the change in fair value of available for sale securities purchased after September 2019.
Employee Benefits Plans Employee Benefits Plans – The Company sponsors a defined contribution plan (the “Plan”) for all eligible domestic employees. The Plan qualifies as a deferred salary arrangement under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Internal Revenue Code”).
Stock Based Compensation
Stock Based Compensation – The Company has awarded restricted stock and other equity-based awards to eligible employees, officers and individuals who provide services to the Company as part of their compensation. Compensation expense for equity-based awards and stock issued for services are recognized over the vesting period of such awards and services based upon the fair value of the award at the grant date.
The Company has granted Performance Share Units (“PSUs”) to the Company's executive officers and certain other employees. The awards were issued pursuant to and are consistent with the terms and conditions of the Company’s 2017 Equity Incentive Plan (as amended, the “2017 Plan”). The PSUs are subject to performance-based vesting under the 2017 Plan pursuant to a form of PSU award agreement (the “PSU Agreement”). Vesting of the PSUs will occur after a three-year period based on the Company’s relative total stockholders' return (“TSR”) percentile ranking as compared to an identified performance peer group. The feature in this award constitutes a “market condition” which impacts the amount of compensation expense recognized for these awards. The grant date fair values of PSUs were determined through Monte-Carlo simulation analysis. The PSUs also include dividend equivalent rights (“DERs”) which entitle the holders of vested PSUs to receive payments in an amount equal to any dividends paid by the Company in respect of the share of the Company's common stock underlying the vested PSU to which such DER relates.
The Company has granted Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) to the Company's executive officers and certain other employees. The awards were issued pursuant to and are consistent with the terms and conditions of the 2017 Plan and are subject to a service condition, vesting ratably over a three-year period. Upon vesting, each RSU represents the right to receive one share of the Company’s common stock. The RSUs include DERs which entitle the holders of vested RSUs to receive payments in an amount equal to any dividends paid by the Company in respect of the share of the Company's common stock underlying the vested RSU to which such DER relates.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes – The Company operates in such a manner so as to qualify as a REIT under the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code. Requirements for qualification as a REIT include various restrictions on ownership of the Company’s stock, requirements concerning distribution of taxable income and certain restrictions on the nature of assets and sources of income. A REIT must distribute at least 90% of its taxable income to its stockholders, of which 85% plus any undistributed amounts from the prior year must be distributed within the taxable year in order to avoid the imposition of an excise tax. Distribution of the remaining balance may extend until timely filing of the Company’s tax return in the subsequent taxable year. Qualifying distributions of taxable income are deductible by a REIT in computing taxable income.

Certain activities of the Company are conducted through TRSs and therefore are subject to federal and various state and local income taxes. Accordingly, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

ASC 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”), provides guidance for how uncertain tax positions should be recognized, measured, presented, and disclosed in the financial statements. ASC 740 requires the evaluation of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in the course of preparing the Company’s tax returns to determine whether the tax positions are “more-likely-than-not” of being sustained by the applicable tax authority. In situations involving uncertain tax positions related to income tax matters, we do not recognize benefits unless it is more likely than not that they will be sustained. ASC 740 was applied to all open taxable years as of the effective date. Management’s determinations regarding ASC 740 may be subject to review and adjustment at a later date based on factors including, but not limited to, an ongoing analysis of tax laws, regulations and interpretations thereof. The Company will recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions as income tax expense in our consolidated statements of operations.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Earnings (Loss) Per Share – Basic earnings (loss) per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to the Company’s common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the Company.
Segment Reporting
Segment Reporting – ASC 280, Segment Reporting ("ASC 280"), is the authoritative guidance for the way public entities report information about operating segments in their annual financial statements. We are a REIT focused on the business of acquiring, investing in, financing and managing primarily mortgage-related single-family and multi-family residential assets and currently operate in only one reportable segment.
Summary of Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Summary of Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2023, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures ("ASU 2023-09"). ASU 2023-09 requires enhanced disclosures in connection with an entity's effective tax rate reconciliation and additional disclosures about income taxes paid. ASU 2023-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company expects that the adoption of ASU 2023-09 will result in additional income tax disclosures in its notes to consolidated financial statements.

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures ("ASU 2023-07"). ASU 2023-07 requires disclosure of incremental segment information on an annual and interim basis. The amendments also require companies with a single reportable segment to provide all disclosures required by ASU 2023-07 as well as existing segment disclosures in accordance with ASC 280. ASU 2023-07 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. The Company expects that the adoption of ASU 2023-07 will result in additional disclosures in its notes to consolidated financial statements.
In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting ("ASU 2020-04"). ASU 2020-04 provides optional expedients and exceptions to GAAP requirements for modifications to debt agreements, leases, derivatives and other contracts, related to the expected market transition from LIBOR, and certain other floating rate benchmark indices, or collectively, IBORs, to alternative reference rates. ASU 2020-04 generally considers contract modifications related to reference rate reform to be an event that does not require contract remeasurement at the modification date nor a reassessment of a previous accounting determination. In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848 ("ASU 2022-06"), which allows ASU 2020-04 to be adopted and applied prospectively to contract modifications made on or before December 31, 2024. In light of the cessation of the publication of LIBOR after June 30, 2023, the Company’s material contracts that were indexed to LIBOR have been amended to transition to an alternative benchmark and any other unmodified agreements that incorporate LIBOR as the referenced rate have provisions in place that provide for identification of an alternative benchmark or specify an alternative benchmark, or by operation of law specify an alternative benchmark, to LIBOR upon its phase-out.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Company has established and documented processes for determining fair values. Fair value is based upon quoted market prices, where available. If listed prices or quotes are not available, then fair value is based upon internally developed models that primarily use inputs that are market-based or independently-sourced market parameters, including interest rate yield curves.

A financial instrument’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The three levels of valuation hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1 - inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

Level 2 - inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument.

Level 3 - inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.

The following describes the valuation methodologies used for the Company’s financial instruments measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy.

a.Residential Loans Held in Consolidated SLST – Residential loans held in Consolidated SLST are carried at fair value and classified as Level 3 fair values. In accordance with the practical expedient in ASC 810, the Company determines the fair value of residential loans held in Consolidated SLST based on the fair value of the CDOs issued by the securitization and its investment in the securitization (eliminated in consolidation in accordance with GAAP), as the fair value of these instruments is more observable.

The investment securities (eliminated in consolidation in accordance with GAAP) that we own in the securitization are generally illiquid and trade infrequently. As such they are classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair valuation of these investment securities is determined based on an internal valuation model that considers expected cash flows from the underlying loans and yields required by market participants. The significant unobservable inputs used in the measurement of these investments are projected losses within the pool of loans and a discount rate. The discount rate used in determining fair value incorporates default rate, loss severity, prepayment rate and current market interest rates. Significant increases or decreases in these inputs would result in a significantly lower or higher fair value measurement.

b.Residential Loans and Residential Loans Held in Securitization Trusts – The Company’s acquired residential loans are recorded at fair value and classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value for residential loans is determined using valuations obtained from a third party that specializes in providing valuations of residential loans. The valuation approach depends on whether the residential loan is considered performing, re-performing or non-performing at the date the valuation is performed.

For performing and re-performing loans, estimates of fair value are derived using a discounted cash flow model, where estimates of cash flows are determined from scheduled payments for each loan, adjusted using forecast prepayment rates, default rates and rates for loss upon default. For non-performing loans, asset liquidation cash flows are derived based on the estimated time to liquidate the loan, expected liquidation costs and home price appreciation. Estimated cash flows for both performing and non-performing loans are discounted at yields considered appropriate to arrive at a reasonable exit price for the asset. Indications of loan value such as actual trades, bids, offers and generic market color may be used in determining the appropriate discount yield.

The Company independently calculates valuations for residential loans based on discounted cash flows using an internal pricing model to validate all third-party valuations of residential loans. The Company has established thresholds to compare internally generated prices with independent third-party prices and any differences that exceed the thresholds are reviewed both internally and with the third-party pricing service. The Company reconciles and resolves all pricing differences in excess of the thresholds before a final price is established.
c.Preferred Equity and Mezzanine Loan Investments – Fair value for preferred equity and mezzanine loan investments is determined by both market comparable pricing and discounted cash flows. The discounted cash flows are based on the underlying estimated cash flows and estimated changes in market yields. The fair value also reflects consideration of changes in credit risk since the origination or time of initial investment. This fair value measurement is generally based on unobservable inputs and, as such, is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

d.Investment Securities Available for Sale – The Company determines the fair value of all of its investment securities available for sale based on discounted cash flows utilizing an internal pricing model. The methodology considers the characteristics of the particular security and its underlying collateral, which are observable inputs. These inputs include, but are not limited to, delinquency status, coupon, loan-to-value ("LTV"), historical performance, periodic and life caps, collateral type, rate reset period, seasoning, prepayment speeds and credit enhancement levels. The Company also considers several observable market data points, including prices obtained from third-party pricing services or dealers who make markets in similar financial instruments, trading activity, and dialogue with market participants. Third-party pricing services typically incorporate commonly used market pricing methods, trading activity observed in the marketplace and other data inputs similar to those used in the Company's internal pricing model. The Company has established thresholds to compare internally generated prices with independent third-party prices and any differences that exceed the thresholds are reviewed both internally and with the third-party pricing service. The Company reconciles and resolves all pricing differences in excess of the thresholds before a final price is established. The Company’s investment securities available for sale are valued based upon readily observable market parameters and are classified as Level 2 fair values.

e.Equity Investments – Fair value for equity investments is determined (i) by the valuation process for preferred equity and mezzanine loan investments as described in c. above or (ii) using weighted multiples of origination volume and earnings before taxes, depreciation and amortization of the entity and the net asset value ("NAV") of the equity investment entity. These fair value measurements are generally based on unobservable inputs and, as such, are classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

f.Derivative Instruments – The fair values of the Company's interest rate cap agreements are measured using models developed by either third-party pricing providers or the respective counterparty that use the market-standard methodology of discounting the future expected cash receipts which would occur if floating interest rates rise above the strike rate of the caps. The floating interest rates used in the calculation of projected receipts on the interest rate caps are based on an expectation of future interest rates derived from observable market interest rate curves and volatilities. The inputs used in the valuation of interest rate caps fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Company's interest rate swaps are classified as Level 2 fair values and are measured using valuations reported by CME Clearing. The derivatives are presented net of variation margin payments pledged or received.

The Company's options were classified as Level 2 fair values and are measured using prices obtained from the counterparty.

The Company obtains additional third-party valuations for interest rate swaps, interest rate cap agreements and option contracts. The Company has established thresholds to compare different independent third-party prices and any differences that exceed the thresholds are reviewed both internally and with the third-party pricing services. The Company reconciles and resolves all pricing differences in excess of the thresholds before a final price is established.

g.Collateralized Debt Obligations – CDOs issued by Consolidated SLST are classified as Level 3 fair values for which fair value is determined by considering several market data points, including prices obtained from third-party pricing services or dealers who make markets in similar financial instruments. The third-party pricing service or dealers incorporate common market pricing methods, including a spread measurement to the Treasury curve or interest rate swap curve as well as underlying characteristics of the particular security. They will also consider contractual cash payments and yields expected by market participants.

Refer to a. above for a description of the fair valuation of CDOs issued by Consolidated SLST that are eliminated in consolidation.
Management reviews all prices used in determining fair value to ensure they represent current market conditions. This review includes surveying similar market transactions and comparisons to interest pricing models as well as offerings of like securities by dealers. Any changes to the valuation methodology are reviewed by management to ensure the changes are appropriate. As markets and products develop and the pricing for certain products becomes more transparent, the Company continues to refine its valuation methodologies. The methods described above may produce a fair value calculation that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. Furthermore, while the Company believes its valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies, or assumptions, to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different estimate of fair value at the reporting date. The Company uses inputs that are current as of each reporting date, which may include periods of market dislocation, during which time price transparency may be reduced. This condition could cause the Company’s financial instruments to be reclassified from Level 2 to Level 3 in future periods.