What is the significance of "Funds From Operations" (FFO) for REITs?

"Funds From Operations" (FFO) is a critical metric used to assess the operational performance of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). It is calculated by adding depreciation and amortization back to net income and excluding gains or losses on property sales. This adjustment is significant because it provides a clearer picture of a REIT's ongoing operating performance, which can be obscured by conventional accounting practices that do not account for real estate's unique aspects, such as depreciation.

By focusing on operational performance, FFO allows investors to gauge how well a REIT is generating cash from its properties, making it a more relevant figure than net income alone when evaluating a REIT’s financial health. This is essential for stakeholders, as it helps inform investment decisions, dividend distributions, and future growth strategies.

The other options are related to different financial metrics or implications not directly tied to the core purpose of FFO. While dividends may be influenced by FFO, it isn't their sole calculation method. Tax obligations and property appreciation are separate considerations that do not accurately represent the primary function and significance of FFO in evaluating a REIT's operational performance.