ROUSE COMPANY
10-K, 1998-03-27
OPERATORS OF NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
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<PAGE>
 
===============================================================================

                                 UNITED STATES
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, DC  20549
                                   FORM 10-K
                                        
(X)             ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (D)
             OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED)

                  FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,1997

                                      OR

( )           TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (D)
             OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (FEE EQUIRED)

                           Commission File No 0-1743

                               THE ROUSE COMPANY
            (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
                                        
                      Maryland                   52-0735512
                      --------                   ----------
          (State or other jurisdiction of)    (I.R.S. Employer
           incorporation or organization      Identification No.)

          10275 LITTLE PATUXENT PARKWAY              
               Columbia, Maryland                21044-3456          
            ------------------                   ----------          
    (Address of principal executive offices)     (Zip Code)          

    Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (410) 992-6000
                                                         --------------

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

                                                          NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE 
Title of each class                                        ON WHICH REGISTERED 
- -------------------                                      -----------------------

Common Stock (par value 1c per share)                    New York Stock Exchange
- -------------------------------------                         

9 1/4% Cumulative Quarterly Income Preferred Securities  New York Stock Exchange
- -------------------------------------------------------      

Series B Convertible Preferred Stock                     New York Stock Exchange
- -------------------------------------
  (par value 1c per share)                                                      
- --------------------------                                 

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

                                     NONE
                                     ----

   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 
     ----     ----

   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. ________

   As of February 17, 1998, there were outstanding 66,910,901 shares of the
registrant's common stock, par value 1c, which is the only class of common or
voting stock of the registrant. As of that date, the aggregate market value of
the shares of common stock held by nonaffiliates of the registrant (based on the
closing price as reported in The Wall Street Journal, Eastern Edition) was
                             ----------------------------------------     
approximately $2,204,485,867

                      Documents Incorporated by Reference

The specified portions of the Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 1997 are incorporated by reference into Parts I, II, and IV.

Definitive Proxy Statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A on or before
April 3, 1998 is incorporated by reference into Part III.

===============================================================================
<PAGE>
 
                                    Part I
                                    ------

Item 1.   Business.

Item 1 (a).  General Development of Business.

  The Rouse Company (the "Company") was incorporated as a business corporation
     under the laws of the State of Maryland in 1956.  Its principal offices are
     located at The Rouse Company Building, Columbia, Maryland 21044.  Its
     telephone number is (410) 992-6000.  The Company, through its subsidiaries,
     affiliates and "Non-REIT Subsidiaries" (as defined below), is engaged or
     has a material financial interest in (i) the ownership, management,
     acquisition and development of income-producing and other real estate in
     the United States, including retail centers, office buildings, mixed-use
     projects, community retail centers and two hotels, and the management of
     one retail center in Canada, and (ii) the development and sale of land in
     Maryland, and Las Vegas, Nevada for residential, commercial and industrial
     uses.

DEVELOPMENTS IN 1997

     Election to be Taxed as a Real Estate Investment Trust and Related Matters

     In December 1997, the Company determined that it would elect to be taxed as
     a real estate investment trust (REIT) effective January 1, 1998.  On
     December 31, 1997, The Rouse Company Incentive Compensation Statutory
     Trust (the "Trust"), an entity which is neither owned nor controlled by the
     Company, acquired 91% of the voting common stock of certain subsidiary
     companies for an aggregate consideration of $1,400,000. The Company
     retained the remaining voting stock of the companies ("Non-REIT
     Subsidiaries") and holds shares of nonvoting common and/or preferred stock
     and, in certain cases, mortgage loans receivable from the Non-REIT
     Subsidiaries which, taken together, comprise substantially all (at least
     98%) of the financial interest in them.

     As a result of its disposition of the majority voting interest in the Non-
     REIT Subsidiaries, the Company began accounting for its investment in them
     using the equity method effective December 31, 1997.  Due to its continuing
     financial  interest  in  the  Non-REIT Subsidiaries, the Company recognized
     no gain for financial reporting purposes on the sales of stock and the Non-
     REIT Subsidiaries did not adjust the cost basis of their assets and
     liabilities.

                                      I-2
<PAGE>
 
Item 1.   Business, continued.

     The Company believes that it met the qualifications for REIT status as of
     December 31, 1997, and it intends to continue to meet the qualifications in
     the future and to distribute at least 100% of its REIT taxable income
     (determined by taking into account any net operating loss deduction) to
     stockholders in 1998 and subsequent years.  Accordingly, management does
     not believe that the Company will be liable for payment of income taxes
     (except, possibly, in certain states) in those periods.  The Company also
     intends to elect to be subject to the "built-in gain" rules under which
     taxes may be payable at the time and to the extent the net unrealized gains
     on its assets at the date of conversion to REIT status are recognized in
     taxable dispositions of such assets in the ten year period following
     conversion.  Due to the availability of the Company's net operating loss
     carryforward (which was approximately $281,000,000 at December 31, 1997) to
     offset any built-in gains which might be recognized, the potential for
     making nontaxable dispositions, if necessary (e.g., like-kind exchanges of
     properties), and the intent and ability of the Company to defer asset
     dispositions to periods when related gains will not be subject to built-in
     gains taxes, management does not believe that the Company will be liable
     for payment of taxes on built-in gains during the ten year period.  Based
     on these considerations, management does not believe that the Company will
     be liable for income taxes at the Federal level or in most states in which
     it operates in future years.  Accordingly, the Company eliminated
     substantially all ($158,433,000) of the deferred tax assets and liabilities
     it had recorded at December 31, 1997.

     A summary of the principal assets and operations of the Non-REIT
     Subsidiaries involved in the subject transactions is as follows:

     a)  Ownership and management of 14 office and industrial buildings, 10
         community retail centers, a hotel and a major regional retail center
         located in Columbia, Maryland.

     b)  Ownership and development of approximately 1,600 acres of saleable land
         for residential and commercial uses in and around Columbia, Maryland, a
         master planned community.

     c)  Ownership and development of approximately 10,400 acres of saleable
         land for residential and commercial uses primarily in Summerlin,
         Nevada, a master planned community, and Las Vegas, Nevada.

                                      I-3
<PAGE>
 
Item 1.   Business, continued.

     d)  Ownership of management contracts for approximately 28 retail centers
         and 71 office buildings.

     e)  Ownership interests in various other operating property and land
         partnerships.

Item 1(b).  Financial Information About Industry Segments.

  Information required by Item 1(b) is incorporated herein by reference to note
     10 of the notes to consolidated financial statements included in the 1997
     Annual Report to Shareholders.

  As noted in Item 1(a), the Company is a real estate company engaged, through
     its subsidiaries, affiliates and having a material financial interest,
     through its Non-REIT Subsidiaries, in most aspects of the real estate
     industry, including the management, acquisition and development of income-
     producing and other properties, both retail and commercial, community
     development and management, and land development.  These business segments
     are further described below.

Item 1(c).  Narrative Description of Business.

  Operating Properties:
  -------------------- 

  As set forth in Item 2, at December 31, 1997, the 52 regional retail centers
     owned, in whole or in part, or operated by subsidiaries or affiliates of
     the Company or by Non-REIT Subsidiaries, aggregated 40,478,000 square feet,
     including 23,472,000 square feet owned by or leased to department stores.
     The activities involved in operating and managing retail centers include:
     negotiating lease terms with present and prospective tenants, identifying
     and attracting desirable new tenants, conducting local market and consumer
     research, developing and implementing short- and long-term merchandising
     and leasing programs, assisting tenants in the presentation of their
     merchandise and the layout of their stores and store fronts, and
     maintaining the building and common areas.

  In conjunction with other partners or investors, the Company, through its
     subsidiaries and affiliates, acquires interests in completed retail
     centers, with the Company (or, beginning December 31, 1997, Non-REIT
     Subsidiaries) having management responsibility and earning incentive fees
     including, in some instances, equity interests in the centers. Affiliates
     of the Company (or, beginning December 31, 1997, Non-REIT Subsidiaries)
     also provide management 

                                      I-4
<PAGE>
 
Item 1.   Business, continued.

     services for centers developed and owned by others under management
     agreements that also provide for incentive fees and, in some instances,
     equity interests in the centers. As of December 31, 1997, Non-REIT
     Subsidiaries of the Company managed 14 such centers, which are included in
     the figures in the preceding paragraph and aggregated 10,586,000 square
     feet of leasable space, 5,779,000 square feet of which was department store
     space.

  The Howard Research And Development Corporation ("HRD", a Non-REIT Subsidiary
     of the Company) and its subsidiaries own and/or manage 14 office and
     industrial buildings with 2,323,000 square feet of leasable space, 10
     community retail centers with 962,000 square feet of leasable space, The
     Mall in Columbia (which is included in the second preceding paragraph) and
     other properties and additional commercial space, including the 289-room
     Columbia Inn in Columbia, Maryland. Howard Hughes Properties, Limited
     Partnership ("HHPLP", a majority owned affiliate of the Company) and its
     subsidiaries and affiliates own and/or manage 59 office and industrial
     buildings with 3,486,000 square feet of leasable space and other properties
     in and around Las Vegas, Nevada and Los Angeles, California.

  Other subsidiaries of the Company own and operate 5 mixed-use projects with a
     total of 691,000 square feet of leasable retail space and 1,858,000 square
     feet of leasable office space. Other subsidiaries of the Company own, in
     whole or in part, 6 office buildings with total of 946,000 square feet of
     leasable office space. The Company also has a 5% interest in Rouse-Teachers
     Properties, Inc., which owns 29 office and industrial buildings with
     4,601,000 square feet of space and 300 acres of land. A Non-REIT Subsidiary
     of the Company is responsible for the operation, management and development
     of all buildings and land owned by Rouse-Teachers Properties, Inc.

Development:
- ----------- 

  The Company, through its subsidiaries, affiliates and Non-REIT Subsidiaries
     renovates and expands existing retail centers and develops suburban and
     downtown retail centers, mixed-use projects and master-planned business
     parks, primarily for ownership. In addition, the Company is capable of
     serving as the master developer for certain mixed-use projects, with the
     Company generally owning at least the retail component of such projects.
     The activities involved in the development, renovation and expansion of
     retail centers, mixed-use projects and master-planned business parks
     include: initial market and consumer research, evaluating and acquiring
     land sites, obtaining necessary public approvals, engaging architectural
     and engineering 

                                      I-5
<PAGE>
 
Item 1. Business, continued

     firms to design the project, estimating development costs, developing and
     testing pro forma operating statements, selecting a general contractor,
     arranging construction and permanent financing, identifying and obtaining
     department stores and other tenants, negotiating lease terms, negotiating
     partnership and joint venture agreements and promoting new, renovated or
     expanded retail centers, mixed-use projects and master-planned business
     parks.

  The Company and certain subsidiaries, affiliates and Non-REIT Subsidiaries are
     in the construction or development stage of announced projects, primarily
     the construction of a new retail center in Orlando, Florida, expansions of
     existing retail centers, expansions of existing mixed-use projects and
     expansions of existing master-planned business parks in Las Vegas, Nevada.

  Land Sales:
  ---------- 

  HRD, which became a Non-REIT Subsidiary on December 31, 1997, is the
     developing entity of Columbia, Maryland, which is located in the Baltimore-
     Washington corridor.  HRD owns approximately 2,000 developable acres (1,600
     saleable acres) of land in and around Columbia, and, through its
     subsidiaries and affiliates, develops and sells this land to builders and
     other developers for residential, commercial and industrial uses.  The
     Hughes Corporation and Howard Hughes Properties, Inc. (collectively
     "Hughes", which became Non-REIT Subsidiaries of the Company on December 31,
     1997) and their subsidiaries and affiliates are the developing entities of
     Summerlin, Nevada, which is located immediately north and west of Las
     Vegas, Nevada.  Hughes owns approximately 15,500 developable acres (10,400
     saleable acres) of land in Summerlin, and develops and sells this land to
     builders and other developers for residential and commercial uses.  Other
     affiliates or subsidiaries of the Company may also purchase some of this
     land for their own development purposes.  Non-REIT Subsidiaries of the
     Company, directly or through affiliates, are also presently involved in
     community development and related land sales elsewhere in Maryland, and are
     developing or holding for sale parcels of land elsewhere in Nevada and
     California.

  In all aspects of the Company's business pertaining to the ownership,
     management, acquisition or development of income-producing and other real
     estate, the Company and its subsidiaries, affiliates and Non-REIT
     Subsidiaries, operate in highly competitive markets.  With respect to the
     leasing and operation or management of developed properties, each project
     faces market competition from existing and future developments in its
     geographical market area.  

                                      I-6
<PAGE>
 
Item 1.   Business, continued.

     The Company's affiliates and Non-REIT Subsidiaries also face competition in
     and around Columbia, Maryland and Las Vegas, Nevada with respect to the
     development and sale of land for residential, commercial and industrial
     uses.

  Neither the Company's business, taken as a whole, nor any of its industry
     segments, is seasonal in nature.

  Federal, state and local statutes and regulations relating to the protection
     of the environment have previously had no material effect on the Company's
     business. Future development opportunities of the Company may involve
     additional capital and other expenditures in order to comply with such
     statues and regulations. It is impossible at this time to predict with any
     certainty the magnitude of any such expenditures or the long-range effect,
     if any, on the Company's operations. Compliance with such laws has had no
     material adverse effect on the operating results or competitive position of
     the Company in the past; the Company anticipates that they will have no
     material adverse effect on its future operating results or its competitive
     position in the industry.

  None of the Company's industry segments depends upon a single customer or a
     few customers, the loss of which would have a materially adverse effect on
     the segment.  No customer accounts for 10 percent or more of the
     consolidated revenues of the Company.

  The Company, its subsidiaries and affiliates and Non-REIT Subsidiaries employ
     4,040 full-time and part-time employees at December 31, 1997.

                                      I-7
<PAGE>
 
Item 2. Properties.

  The Company leases its headquarters building (approximately 127,000 square
     feet) in Columbia, Maryland for an initial term of 30 years which expires
     in 2003 with options for two 15-year renewal periods.  The lease on the
     headquarters building is accounted for as a capital lease.

  Information respecting the Company's operating properties is incorporated
     herein by reference to the "Projects of The Rouse Company" table in pages
     62 through 65 of Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K.  The ownership of virtually
     all properties is subject to mortgage financing.  The table of projects
     includes properties managed by Non-REIT Subsidiaries of the Company for a
     fee as identified in notes (c) and (d) to the table.  Excluding such
     managed properties, certain of the remaining properties are subject to
     leases which provide an option to purchase (or repurchase) the property
     and/or to renew the leases for one or more renewal periods.  The years of
     expiration indicated below assume all options to extend the terms of leases
     are exercised.  The properties subject to such leases in whole or part
     (including properties owned by Non-REIT Subsidiaries) are as follows

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 Nature of                       Year of expiration
      Property                                    interest                            of lease
      --------                                   ---------                       ------------------          
<S>                                    <C>                                       <C>
Arizona Center                         Leasehold                                 Various dates from
                                                                                 2017 to 2050         
Augusta Mall                           Leasehold                                        2068                  
Bayside Marketplace                    Leasehold by joint venture                       2062                  
Columbia Mall, Inc.                    Leasehold and fee                                2000                  
  American City Building                                                                                      
Columbia Mall, Inc.                    Leasehold and fee                                2012                  
  Exhibit Building                                                                                            
Columbia Mall, Inc.                    Leasehold                                        2062                  
  Oakland Building                                                                                            
Echelon Mall                           Leasehold                                        2008                  
Fanueil Hall Marketplace               Leasehold                                        2074                  
First National Bank Plaza              Leasehold                                        2013                  
Franklin Park                          Leasehold and fee by joint venture               2024                  
The Gallery at Market East             Leasehold                                        2082                   
</TABLE> 

                                      I-8
<PAGE>
 
Item 2. Properties, continued.

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                 Nature of                                    Year of expiration
      Property                                    interest                                         of lease
      --------                                   ---------                                    ------------------          
<S>                                    <C>                                                    <C>    
Governor's Square                      Leasehold by joint venture                                    2054
Greengate Mall                         Leasehold                                                     2070
Harborplace                            Leasehold                                                     2054
Highland Mall                          Leasehold and fee by joint venture                            2070
The Jacksonville Landing               Leasehold                                                     2057
Mall St. Matthews                      Leasehold                                                     2053
Midtown Square                         Leasehold                                                     2055
Pioneer Place                          Leasehold                                                     2076
Plymouth Meeting                       Leasehold                                                     2063
Riverwalk                              Leasehold and fee by joint venture                            2076
St. Louis Union Station                Leasehold                                                     2060
South Street Seaport                   Leasehold                                                     2031
Tampa Bay Center                       Leasehold and fee                                             2047
Westlake Center                        Leasehold by joint venture                                    2043
</TABLE>

                                      I-9
<PAGE>
 
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

  None.

                                      I-10
<PAGE>
 
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

        None.

                                      I-11
<PAGE>
 
The executive officers of the Company as of March 27, 1998 are:
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>   
            
                                   Present office and            Date of election    Business or professional     
                                   position with the             or appointment to   experience during the past                     
Executive Officer        Age       Company                       present office      five years                                     
- -----------------        ---       ------------------            ------------------  ------------------------------------------     
                                                                                                                                    
<S>                      <C>       <C>                            <C>                <C>                                            
Anthony W. Deering        53       Chairman of the Board,             2/25/97        Chairman of the Board, President and
                                   President and                      2/25/93        Chief Executive Officer of the Company;
                                   Chief Executive Officer            2/23/95        formerly President and Chief Executive
                                                                                     Officer of the Company;  President and
                                                                                     Chief Operating Officer of the Company;
                                                                                     and Executive Vice President  Finance
                                                                                     and Administration and Chief Financial
                                                                                     Officer of the Company
                                                                                  
Jeffrey H. Donahue        51       Senior Vice-President              9/23/93        Senior Vice-President and Chief Financial
                                   Chief Financial Officer            9/23/93        Officer of the Company and Director of the
                                   and Director of the                8/17/93        Finance Division; formerly Vice-President
                                   Finance Division                                  and Treasurer Of the Company
                                                                                  
John L. Goolsby           56       President and Chief                 9/1/88        President and Chief Executive Officer of
                                   Executive Officer of                              The Howard Hughes Corporation
                                   The Howard Hughes                              
                                   Corporation, a Non-REIT                        
                                   Subsidiary of the                              
                                   Company                                        
                                                                                  
Duke S. Kassolis          46       Senior Vice-President              9/23/93        Senior Vice-President and Director of
                                   and Director of Office             8/17/93        Office and Mixed-Use Operations of the
                                   and Mixed-Use Operations                          Company; formerly Vice-President and
                                                                                     Director of Office and Commercial
                                                                                     Properties of the Company
</TABLE>

                                      I-12
<PAGE>
 
Executive Officers of the Registrant. 

<TABLE>       
<CAPTION>     
              
                                   Present office and            Date of election    Business or professional                     
                                   position with the             or appointment to   experience during the past                  
Executive Officer        Age       Company                       present office      five years                                     
- -----------------        ---       ------------------            ------------------  ------------------------------------------     
              
<S>                      <C>       <C>                            <C>                <C>                                         
Paul I. Latta, Jr.       54        Senior Vice-President              9/23/93        Senior Vice-President and Director
                                   And Director of Retail             8/17/93        Of Retail Operations of the Company;
                                   Operations                                        formerly Vice-President and Associate
                                                                                     Division Director, Operating Properties
                                                                                     Division of the Company
                                                                              
Douglas A. McGregor      55        Executive Vice-President           8/17/93        Executive Vice-President for Development
                                   for Development and                               and Operations of the Company; formerly
                                   Operations                                        Executive Vice-President  Development
                                                                                     and Director of the Office and Community
                                                                                     Development Division of the Company
                                                                              
Robert Minutoli          47        Senior Vice-President              9/23/93        Senior Vice-President and Director of
                                   and Director of                    8/17/93        New Business of the Company; formerly
                                   New Business                                      Vice-President for Development of the
                                                                                     Company
                                                                              
Robert D. Riedy          52        Senior Vice-President              9/23/93        Senior Vice-President and Director of
                                   and Director of Retail             8/17/93        Retail Leasing of the Company; formerly
                                   Leasing                                           Vice-President for Development of the
                                                                                     Company
</TABLE>

                                      I-13
<PAGE>
 
Executive Officers of the Registrant. 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>   
            
                                   Present office and            Date of election    Business or professional                    
                                   position with the             or appointment to   experience during the past                 
Executive Officer        Age       Company                       present office      five years                                  
- -----------------        ---       ------------------            ------------------  ------------------------------------------  
                                                                                                                                 
<S>                      <C>       <C>                            <C>                <C>      
Alton J. Scavo           51        Senior Vice-President,             9/23/93        Senior Vice-President and Director of
                                   Director of the                    8/17/93        the Community Development Division of
                                   Community Development                             the Company and General Manager of
                                   Division and General                              Columbia; formerly Vice-President and
                                   Manager of Columbia                               Associate Director of the Community
                                                                                     Development Division of the Company
                                                                                     
Jerome D. Smalley        48        Senior Vice-President              9/23/93        Senior Vice-President and Director of
                                   And Director of the                8/17/93        the Commercial and Office Development
                                   Commercial and Office                             Division of the Company; formerly Vice-
                                   Development Division                              President for Development
                                                                                     
George L. Yungmann       55        Senior Vice-President,             9/23/93        Senior Vice-President and Controller of
                                   Controller and                     7/26/72        the Company and Director of the Controller's
                                   Director of the                    7/26/72        Division; formerly Vice-President, Controller
                                   Controller's Division                             and Director of the Controller's Division

</TABLE> 
 
The term of office of each officer is until election of a successor or otherwise
at the pleasure of the Board of Directors.
 
There is no arrangement or understanding between any of the above-listed
officers and any other person pursuant to which any such officer was elected as
an officer, except with respect to John L. Goolsby. See Exhibit 10 to this Form
10-K.
 
None of the above-listed officers has any family relationship with any director
or other executive officer.

                                      I-14
<PAGE>
 
                                    Part II
                                    -------


Item 5.   Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder
          Matters.

          Information required by Item 5 is incorporated herein by reference to
          page 49 of Exhibit 13.

Item 6.   Selected Financial Data.
          Information required by Item 6 is incorporated by reference to
          page 48 of Exhibit 13.

Item 7.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
          Results of Operations.

          Information required by Item 7 is incorporated herein by reference to
          pages 50 through 57 of Exhibit 13.

Item 8.   Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

          Financial Statements required by Item 8 are set forth in the Index to
          Financial Statements and Schedules on page IV-2.

          Supplementary data required by Item 8 are incorporated herein by
          reference to page 49 of Exhibit 13.

Item 9.   Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
          Financial Disclosure.

          None.

                                     II-1
<PAGE>
 
                                   Part III
                                   --------

The information required by Items 10, 11, 12 and 13 (except that information
regarding executive officers called for by Item 10 that is contained in Part I)
is incorporated herein by reference from the definitive proxy statement that the
Company intends to file pursuant to Regulation 14A on or before April 3, 1998.

                                     III-1
<PAGE>
 
                                    Part IV
                                    -------
                                        
Item 14.  Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K.

  (a) 1. and 2.  Financial Statements and Schedules:

       Reference is made to the Index to Financial Statements and Schedules on
       page IV-2.

  (b)  Reports on Form 8-K:

       None.

                                     IV-1
<PAGE>
 
                               The Rouse Company

                  Index to Financial Statements and Schedules

                                                                      Page
                                                                      ----

       Independent Auditors' Report                                   IV-3

       Financial Statements:
          The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries included on pages 
            23 through 47 of Exhibit 13 incorporated herein by
            reference:
          Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1997 and 1996
          Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended 
            December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
          Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity
            for the Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
          Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended 
            December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
          Notes to consolidated Financial Statements

        Schedules:

       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 
            or for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995:

       Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts                  IV-4
       Schedule III Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation          IV-5

       All other schedules have been omitted as not applicable or 
            not required, or because the required information is 
            included in the consolidated financial statements or 
            notes thereto. 

                                     IV-2
<PAGE>
 
                         INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
                         ----------------------------


  The Board of Directors and Shareholders
  The Rouse Company:

  We have audited the consolidated financial statements and the related
  financial statement schedules of The Rouse Company and subsidiaries as listed
  in the accompanying index.  These consolidated financial statements and
  financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company's
  management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated
  financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

  We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
  standards.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
  obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
  material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
  supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit
  also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
  estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
  statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
  for our opinion.

  In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
  present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The Rouse
  Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of
  their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year
  period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted
  accounting principles.  Also in our opinion, the related financial statement
  schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial
  statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the
  information set forth therein.



                                         KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP

  Baltimore, Maryland
  February 24, 1998

                                     IV-3
<PAGE>
 
                                                                     Schedule II
                                                                     -----------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

                       Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
                 Years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        Additions
                                                                --------------------------
                                                    Balance at  Charged to    Charged to                   Balance at
                                                    beginning   Costs and       other                        end of
                Descriptions                         of year     expenses      accounts      Deductions       year
                ------------                        ----------  ----------  --------------  -------------  ----------
                                                                           (in thousands)
<S>                                                 <C>         <C>         <C>             <C>            <C> 
                                                   
Year ended December 31, 1997:                      
   Allowance for doubtful receivables                $28,153     $ 5,766      $     ---       $12,608 (1)     $21,311          
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======     
   Valuation allowance -- properties held for sale   $35,671     $26,249      $     ---       $23,968 (2)     $37,952
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======
   Preconstruction reserve                           $16,317     $ 2,800      $     ---       $ 1,766 (3)     $17,351
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======     
Year ended December 31, 1996:                                                                
   Allowance for doubtful receivables                $24,468     $ 3,688      $   1,161       $ 1,164 (1)     $28,153  
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======     
   Valuation allowance -- properties held for sale   $15,589     $25,825      $     ---       $ 5,743 (2)     $35,671
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======     
   Preconstruction reserve                           $15,379     $ 2,700      $     ---       $ 1,762 (3)     $16,317
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======     
Year ended December 31, 1995:                                                                
   Allowance for doubtful receivables                $25,124     $ 3,318      $     ---       $ 3,974 (1)     $24,468          
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======     
   Valuation allowance -- properties held for sale   $   ---     $15,589      $     ---       $  ---          $15,589
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======     
   Preconstruction reserve                           $14,109     $ 3,800      $     ---       $ 2,530 (3)     $15,379
                                                     =======     =======      =========       =======         =======     
 
</TABLE> 
Notes:
  (1)  Balances written off as uncollectible.
  (2)  Allowance related to properties sold or transferred to operating 
       properties.
  (3)  Costs of unsuccessful projects written off.

                                     IV-4
<PAGE>
                                                                    Schedule III
                                                                    ------------
                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              Cost capitalized       
                                       Initial cost to                         subsequent to          Gross amount at which carried 
                                          Company                               acquisition                   at December 31, 1997  
                          -------------------------------------------       --------------------      ----------------------------- 
                                                                                                              Buildings      
                                                            Buildings                                            and     
                             Encum-                            and                      Carrying               Improve-     
                            brances                         Improve-        Improve-      costs                 ments        
Description                 (note 4)           Land           ments          ments       (note 2)      Land    (note 3)      Total
- -----------                 -------            ----         --------        --------    ---------      ----   ---------      -----
                                                                     (In  thousands)                                  
<S>                        <C>               <C>            <C>             <C>         <C>          <C>      <C>          <C>     
Operating Properties:
                     
Woodbridge Center           $134,231         $26,301        $     --         $117,800   $    --      $26,301  $117,800     $144,101 
  Retail Center                                                                                                         
  Woodbridge, NJ                                                                                                        
                                                                                                                        
South Street Seaport          60,297              --               --         141,534        --           --   141,534      141,534
  Retail Center                                                                                                         
  New York, NY                                                                                                          
                                                                                                                        
Arizona Center               105,585              97               --         138,357        --           97   138,357      138,454
  Mixed-use project                                                                                                     
  Phoenix, AZ                                                                                                           
                                                                                                                        
Beachwood Place              121,058          10,673               --         120,914        --       10,673   120,914      131,587
  Retail Center                                                                                                         
  Beachwood, OH                                                                                                         
                                                                                                                        
Fashion Show Mall             75,150          26,776           97,017           1,552        --       26,776    98,569      125,345
  Retail Center                                                                                                         
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                         
                                                                                                                        
Pioneer Place                 96,341              --               --         122,790        --           --   122,790      122,790
  Mixed-use project                                                                                                     
  Portland, OR                                                                                                          
                                                                                                                        
Westlake Center               93,954          10,582               --         102,991        --       10,582   102,991      113,573
  Mixed-use project                                                         
  Seattle, WA                                                               

</TABLE>

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                              Life on which      
                                                                                                          depreciation in latest
                                       Accumulated depreciation      Date of completion       Date           income statement    
Description                               and amortization            of construction       acquired           is computed       
- -----------                            ------------------------      -------------------    --------      ---------------------- 
                                                                       (In thousands)
<S>                                    <C>                           <C>                    <C>           <C>
Operating Properties:                                                                                                       
                           
Woodbridge Center                               $24,614                    03/71              N/A                  Note 8        
  Retail Center            
  Woodbridge, NJ           
                           
South Street Seaport                             24,266                    07/83              N/A                  Note 8
  Retail Center            
  New York, NY             
                           
Arizona Center                                   26,247                    07/83              N/A                  Note 8
  Mixed-use project        
  Phoenix, AZ              
                           
Beachwood Place                                   8,628                    08/78              N/A                  Note 8
  Retail Center            
  Beachwood, OH            
                           
Fashion Show Mall                                 3,806                    03/81             06/96                 Note 8
  Retail Center            
  Las Vegas, NV            
                           
Pioneer Place                                    23,364                    03/90              N/A                  Note 8
  Mixed-use project        
  Portland, OR             
                           
Westlake Center                                  25,526                    10/88              N/A                  Note 8
  Mixed-use project        
  Seattle, WA              
</TABLE>


<PAGE>
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Cost capitalized
                                               Initial cost to         subsequent to            Gross amount at which carried
                                                   Company              acquisition                  at December 31, 1997
                                            --------------------    ---------------------     ---------------------------------
                                                                                                         Buildings
                                                       Buildings                                            and
                                 Encum-                   and                    Carrying                Improve- 
                                brances                Improve-     Improve-      costs                    ments     
Description                     (note 4)      Land       ments        ments      (note 2)       Land      (note 3)       Total
- --------------                  --------     ------    ---------    ---------    --------      ------    ---------      -------
                                                                         (in thousands)
<S>                              <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>     
The Gallery at Harborplace       107,894      6,648          --       104,034        --         6,648      104,034      110,682
  Mixed-use project                                                 
  Baltimore, MD                                                     
                                                                    
Owings Mills                      61,000     13,408          --        87,661        --        13,408       87,661      101,069
  Retail Center                                                     
  Baltimore, MD                                                     
                                                                    
Bayside Marketplace               83,310         --          --        97,915        --            --       97,915       97,915
  Retail Center                                                     
  Miami, FL                                                         
                                                                    
Mall St. Matthews                 72,072         --          --        94,668        --            --       94,668       94,668
  Retail Center                                                     
  Louisville, KY                                                    
                                                                    
Paramus Park                      70,353     13,475          --        69,614        --        13,475       69,614       83,089
  Retail Center                                                     
  Paramus, NJ                                                       
                                                                    
Moorestown Mall                   42,000     12,169      67,043            --        --        12,169       67,043       79,212
  Retail Center                                                     
  Burlington County, NJ                                             
                                                                    
Santa Monica Place                    --      5,088          --        68,740        --         5,088       68,740       73,828
  Retail Center                                                     
  Santa Monica, CA                                                  
                                                                    
Faneuil Mall Marketplace          53,910         --          --        73,099        --            --       73,099       73,099
  Retail Center                   
  Boston, MA                      
</TABLE>                          

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       Life on which
                                                                                                   depreciation in latest
                                 Accumulated depreciation     Date of completion        Date          income statement
Description                          and amortization          of construction        acquired          is computed
- --------------                   ------------------------     ------------------      --------     ----------------------
                                                                     (in thousands)
<S>                                        <C>                     <C>                  <C>               <C> 
The Gallery at Harborplace                 24,823                   09/87                N/A               Note 8
  Mixed-use project                            
  Baltimore, MD               
                                                   
Owings Mills                               11,941                   07/86                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                                    
  Baltimore, MD               
                                                   
Bayside Marketplace                        16,614                   04/87                N/A               Note 8         
  Retail Center                                    
  Miami, FL                         
                                                   
Mall St. Matthews                          15,176                   03/62                N/A               Note 8  
  Retail Center                                    
  Louisville, KY                                                                  
                                  
Paramus Park                                8,524                   03/74                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                   
  Paramus, NJ                     
                                  
Moorestown Mall                                --                   03/63               12/97              Note 8 
  Retail Center                   
  Burlington County, NJ           
                                  
Santa Monica Place                         10,379                   10/80                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                   
  Santa Monica, CA                
                                  
Faneuil Mall Marketplace                   11,459                   08/76                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                  
  Boston, MA                     
</TABLE>                          
                                     IV-6
<PAGE>
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Cost capitalized
                                               Initial cost to         subsequent to            Gross amount at which carried
                                                   Company              acquisition                 at December 31, 1997
                                            --------------------    ---------------------     ---------------------------------
                                                                                                         Buildings
                                                       Buildings                                            and
                                 Encum-                   and                    Carrying                Improve- 
                                brances                Improve-     Improve-      costs                    ments     
Description                     (note 4)      Land       ments        ments      (note 2)       Land      (note 3)       Total
- --------------                  --------     ------    ---------    ---------    --------      ------    ---------      -------
                                                                         (in thousands)
<S>                              <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>     
Cherry Hill Mall                  79,070     14,767         --         57,536        --        14,767       57,536       72,303
  Retail Center                                                       
  Cherry Hill, NJ                                                     
                                                                      
Oakwood Center                    54,116     14,750         --         56,959        --        14,750       56,959       71,709
  Retail Center                                                       
  Gretna, LA                                                          
                                                                      
Augusta Mall                      62,783      5,397         --         65,720        --         5,397       65,720       71,117
  Retail Center                                                       
  Augusta, GA                                                         
                                                                      
Hulen Mall                        64,808      5,064         --         65,336        --         5,064       65,336       70,400
  Retail Center                                                       
  Ft. Worth, TX                                                       
                                                                      
Riverwalk                         10,627         --         --         69,900        --            --       69,900       69,900
  Retail Center                                                       
  New Orleans, LA                                                     
                                                                      
St. Louis Union Station               --         --         --         67,497        --            --       67,497       67,497
  Retail Center                                                       
  St. Louis, MO                                                       
                                                                      
Echelon Mall                      60,294      6,160         --         54,615        --         6,160       54,615       60,775
  Retail Center                 
  Voorhees, NJ                  
</TABLE>                          

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       Life on which
                                                                                                   depreciation in latest
                                 Accumulated depreciation     Date of completion        Date          income statement
Description                          and amortization          of construction        acquired          is computed
- --------------                   ------------------------     ------------------      --------     ----------------------
                                                                     (in thousands)
<S>                                        <C>                     <C>                  <C>               <C> 
Cherry Hill Mall                           17,135                   10/61                N/A               Note 8
  Retail Center                            
  Cherry Hill, NJ                         
                                           
Oakwood Center                              8,309                   10/82                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                            
  Gretna, LA                              
                                           
Augusta Mall                                6,873                   08/78                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                            
  Augusta, GA                             
                                           
Hulen Mall                                 10,618                   08/77                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                 
  Ft. Worth, TX                 
                                
Riverwalk                                  10,349                   08/86                N/A               Note 8  
  Retail Center                 
  New Orleans, LA               
                                
St. Louis Union Station                    18,110                   08/85                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                 
  St. Louis, MO                 
                                
Echelon Mall                               11,615                   09/70                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                
  Voorhees, NJ                 
</TABLE>                        
                                     IV-7 
<PAGE>
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Cost capitalized
                                               Initial cost to         subsequent to            Gross amount at which carried
                                                   Company              acquisition                 at December 31, 1997
                                            --------------------    ---------------------     ---------------------------------
                                                                                                         Buildings
                                                       Buildings                                            and
                                 Encum-                   and                    Carrying                Improve- 
                                brances                Improve-     Improve-      costs                    ments     
Description                     (note 4)      Land       ments        ments      (note 2)       Land      (note 3)       Total
- --------------                  --------     ------    ---------    ---------    --------      ------    ---------      -------
                                                                         (in thousands)
<S>                              <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>     
Harborplace                       37,249         --         --        51,573         --            --       51,573       51,573 
  Retail Center                                                       
  Baltimore, MD                                                       
                                                                      
Blue Cross &                                                          
Blue Shield Building I            33,508      1,000         --        44,756         --         1,000       44,756       45,756 
  Office Building                                                     
  Baltimore, MD                                                       
                                                                      
3800 Howard                                                           
Hughes Parkway                    39,941      3,676     39,014         1,152         --         3,676       40,166       43,842   
  Office Building                                                     
  Las Vegas, NV                                                       
                                                                      
The Jacksonville Landing          13,511         --         --        32,549         --            --       32,549       32,549  
  Retail Center                                                       
  Jacksonville, FL                                                    
                                                                      
Tampa Bay Center                  46,488        920         --        31,152         --           920       31,152       32,072   
  Retail Center                                                       
  Tampa, FL                                                           
                                                                      
Governor's Square                 27,429         --         --        31,902         --            --       31,902       31,902   
  Retail Center                                                       
  Tallahassee, FL                                                     
                                                                      
Village of Cross Keys                 --        910         --        30,889         --           910       30,889       31,799   
  Mixed-use project             
  Baltimore, MD                 
</TABLE>                          

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       Life on which
                                                                                                   depreciation in latest
                                 Accumulated depreciation     Date of completion        Date          income statement
Description                          and amortization          of construction        acquired          is computed
- --------------                   ------------------------     ------------------      --------     ----------------------
                                                                     (in thousands)
<S>                                        <C>                     <C>                  <C>               <C> 
Harborplace                                11,390                   07/80                N/A               Note 8
  Retail Center                 
  Baltimore, MD                 
                                          
Blue Cross &                                8,981                   07/89                N/A               Note 8
Blue Shield Building I                     
  Office Building               
  Baltimore, MD                            
                                
3800 Howard                                 2,346                   11/86               06/96              Note 8
Hughes Parkway                  
  Office Building                          
  Las Vegas, NV                 
                                           
The Jacksonville Landing                   10,270                   06/87                N/A               Note 8
  Retail Center                            
  Jacksonville, FL              
                                
Tampa Bay Center                            9,876                   08/79                N/A               Note 8
  Retail Center                 
  Tampa, FL                     
                                
Governor's Square                           4,472                   08/79                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                 
  Tallahassee, FL               
                                
Village of Cross Keys                       9,923                   09/65                N/A               Note 8  
  Mixed-use project            
  Baltimore, MD                
</TABLE>                        
                                     IV-8
<PAGE>
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Cost capitalized
                                               Initial cost to         subsequent to            Gross amount at which carried
                                                   Company              acquisition                 at December 31, 1997
                                            --------------------    ---------------------     ---------------------------------
                                                                                                         Buildings
                                                       Buildings                                            and
                                 Encum-                   and                    Carrying                Improve- 
                                brances                Improve-     Improve-      costs                    ments     
Description                     (note 4)      Land       ments        ments      (note 2)       Land      (note 3)       Total
- --------------                  --------     ------    ---------    ---------    --------      ------    ---------      -------
                                                                         (in thousands)
<S>                              <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>     
White Marsh                       41,705        316          --        31,352        --           316       31,352       31,668 
  Retail Center                                                        
  Baltimore, MD                                                        
                                                                       
North Star                            --        168          --        30,323        --           168       30,323       30,491 
  Retail Center                                                        
  San Antonio, TX                                                      
                                                                       
Plymouth Meeting                      --        702          --        29,259        --           702       29,259       29,961 
  Retail Center                                                        
  Montgomery County, PA                                                
                                                                       
Willowbrook                       38,434        853          --        28,789        --           853       28,789       29,642 
  Retail Center                                                        
  Wayne, NJ                                                            
                                                                       
Exton Square                       7,369      1,408          --        26,663        --         1,408       26,663       28,071 
  Retail Center                                                        
  Exton, PA                                                            
                                                                       
3773 Howard                                                            
Hughes Parkway                    22,715      1,764      22,964         2,953        --         1,764       25,917       27,681 
  Office Building                                                      
  Las Vegas, NV                                                        
                                                                       
Alexander &                                                            
Alexander Building I              21,529      1,000          --        24,605        --         1,000       24,605       25,605 
  Office Building               
  Baltimore, MD                 
</TABLE>                          

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       Life on which
                                                                                                   depreciation in latest
                                 Accumulated depreciation     Date of completion        Date          income statement
Description                          and amortization          of construction        acquired          is computed
- --------------                   ------------------------     ------------------      --------     ----------------------
                                                                     (in thousands)
<S>                                        <C>                     <C>                  <C>               <C> 
White Marsh                                 8,416                   08/81                N/A               Note 8 
  Retail Center                 
  Baltimore, MD                            
                                           
North Star                                  7,998                   09/60                N/A               Note 8
  Retail Center                            
  San Antonio, TX                          
                                           
Plymouth Meeting                           12,249                   02/66                N/A               Note 8
  Retail Center                            
  Montgomery County, PA                    
                                           
Willowbrook                                 6,482                   09/69                N/A               Note 8
  Retail Center                             
  Wayne, NJ                                
                                
Exton Square                                9,139                   03/73                N/A               Note 8
  Retail Center                 
  Exton, PA                     
                                
3773 Howard                                
Hughes Parkway                                931                   11/95               06/96              Note 8
  Office Building               
  Las Vegas, NV                 
                                
Alexander &                     
Alexander Building I                        5,805                   09/87                N/A               Note 8
  Office Building              
  Baltimore, MD                
</TABLE>                        
                                     IV-9
<PAGE>
 
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          Cost capitalized
                                                      Initial cost to      subsequent to      Gross amount at which carried
                                                          Company            acqisition          at December 31, 1997
                                                    -------------------  -------------------  -----------------------------
                                                                                                       Buildings
                                                              Buildings                                   and
                                          Encum-                and                Carrying            Improve-    
                                         brances              Improve-   Improve-    costs               ments     
Description                              (note 4)      Land     ments      ments    (note 2)   Land     (note 3)     Total
- -----------                             ----------  --------  ---------  --------- ---------  ------   ----------   -------
                                                                        (in thousands)
<S>                                     <C>         <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>       <C>    <C>         <C> 
The Gallery at Market East                     --         --       --      23,916     --        --    23,916     23,916   
  Retail Center                                                                                                           
  Philadelphia, PA                                                                                                        
                                                                                                                          
Perimeter Mall                                 --         --       --      22,086     --        --    22,086     22,086   
  Retail Center                                                                                                           
  Atlanta, GA                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                          
Franklin Park                              25,498        653       --      20,908     --       653    20,908     21,561   
  Retail Center                                                                                                           
  Toledo, OH                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                          
The Grand Avenue                            4,442         --       --      20,768     --        --    20,768     20,768   
  Retail Center                                                                                                           
  Milwaukee, WI                                                                                                           
                                                                                                                          
Mondawmin                                   5,008      2,251       --      17,973     --     2,251    17,973     20,224   
  Retail Center                                                                                                           
  Baltimore, MD                                                                                                           
                                                                                                                          
Highland Mall                               6,059         13       --      17,701     --        13    17,701     17,714   
  Retail Center                                                                                                           
  Austin, TX                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                          
Blue Cross &                                                                                                              
Blue Shield Building II                    12,222      1,000       --      16,542     --     1,000    16,542     17,542   
  Office Building
  Baltimore, MD
</TABLE>

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                      
                                                                                                       Life on which  
                                                                                                  depreciation in latest 
                                       Accumulated depreciation   Date of completion    Date         income statement 
                                          and amortization         of construction     acquired        is computed
                                       ------------------------   ------------------   --------   ----------------------
<S>                                    <C>                        <C>                  <C>        <C> 
The Gallery at Market East                        6,985                  08/77            N/A             Note 8
  Retail Center                                                                                   
  Philadelphia, PA                                                                                
                                                                                                  
Perimeter Mall                                    6,324                  08/71            N/A             Note 8
  Retail Center                                                                                   
  Atlanta, GA                                                                                     
                                                                                                  
Franklin Park                                     4,685                  07/71            N/A             Note 8
  Retail Center                                                                                   
  Toledo, OH                                                                                      
                                                                                                  
The Grand Avenue                                 10,063                  08/82            N/A             Note 8
  Retail Center                                                                                   
  Milwaukee, WI                                                                                   
                                                                                                  
Mondawmin                                         6,757                  01/78            N/A             Note 8
  Retail Center                                                                                   
  Baltimore, MD                                                                                   
                                                                                                  
Highland Mall                                     5,592                  08/71            N/A             Note 8
  Retail Center                                                                                   
  Austin, TX                                                                                      
                                                                                                  
Blue Cross &                                                                                      
Blue Shield Building II                           2,942                  08/90            N/A             Note 8
  Office Building
  Baltimore, MD
</TABLE> 


                                     IV-10
<PAGE>
 
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          Cost capitalized
                                                      Initial cost to      subsequent to      Gross amount at which carried
                                                          Company            acqisition          at December 31, 1997
                                                    -------------------  -------------------  -----------------------------
                                                                                                       Buildings
                                                              Buildings                                   and
                                          Encum-                and                 Carrying           Improve-    
                                         brances              Improve-    Improve-    costs              ments     
Description                              (note 4)      Land     ments      ments    (note 2)   Land     (note 3)     Total
- -----------                             ----------  --------  ---------  --------- ---------  ------   ----------   -------
                                                                        (in thousands)
<S>                                     <C>         <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>        <C>      <C>          <C> 

Alexander &
Alexander Building II                      11,851        650        --       16,816      --     650       16,816     17,466  
  Office Building                                                                                                            
  Baltimore, MD                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                             
3753/3763 Howard                                                                                                             
Hughes Parkway                             11,216      3,901    12,199          237      --   3,901       12,436     16,337  
  Office Building                                                                                                            
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                             
Midtown Square                                 --         --        --       14,759      --      --       14,759     14,759  
  Retail Center                                                                                                              
  Charlotte, NC                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                             
3930 Howard                                                                                                                  
Hughes Parkway                              7,350      3,155    11,448           27      --   3,155       11,475     14,630  
  Office Building                                                                                                            
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                             
Canyon Center                                  --      2,091     7,197        4,924      --   2,091       12,121     14,212  
  Office Building                                                                                                            
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                             
Crossing Business                                                                                                            
Center Phase III                            8,666      2,883     1,481        8,254      --   2,883        9,735     12,618  
  Office Building
  Las Vegas, NV
</TABLE>

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                      
                                                                                                       Life on which  
                                                                                                  depreciation in latest 
                                       Accumulated depreciation   Date of completion    Date         income statement 
                                          and amortization         of construction     acquired        is computed
                                       ------------------------   ------------------   --------   ----------------------
<S>                                    <C>                        <C>                  <C>        <C> 

Alexander &
Alexander Building II                          5,696                    11/88            N/A            Note 8
  Office Building                          
  Baltimore, MD                            
                                           
3753/3763 Howard                           
Hughes Parkway                                   597                    10/91            06/96          Note 8
  Office Building                          
  Las Vegas, NV                            
                                           
Midtown Square                                10,002                    10/59            N/A            Note 8
  Retail Center                            
  Charlotte, NC                            
                                           
3930 Howard                                
Hughes Parkway                                   731                    12/94            06/96          Note 8
  Office Building                          
  Las Vegas, NV                            
                                           
Canyon Center                                    235                    03/98            06/96          Note 8
  Office Building                          
  Las Vegas, NV                            
                                           
Crossing Business                          
Center Phase III                                 413                    09/96            06/96          Note 8
  Office Building
  Las Vegas, NV
</TABLE>



                                     IV-II
<PAGE>
 
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                          Cost capitalized
                                                      Initial cost to      subsequent to      Gross amount at which carried
                                                          Company            acqisition          at December 31, 1997
                                                    -------------------  -------------------  -----------------------------
                                                              Buildings                                Buildings   
                                         Encum-                  and               Carrying            Improve-    
                                         brances              Improve-   Improve-    costs               ments     
Description                              (note 4)      Land     ments      ments    (note 2)   Land     (note 3)     Total
- -----------                             ----------  --------  ---------  --------- ---------  ------   ----------   -------
                                                                        (in thousands)
<S>                                     <C>         <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>        <C>      <C>          <C> 

3980 Howard                                10,740       881     5,607      5,947        --      881       11,554     12,435   
Hughes Parkway                                                                                                                
  Office Building                                                                                                             
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                              
Crossing Business                                                                                                             
Center Phase I                              7,820     1,347     8,077         80        --    1,347        8,157      9,504   
  Office Building                                                                                                             
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                              
3770 Howard                                                                                                                   
Hughes Parkway                              5,645       702     8,129        425        --      702        8,554      9.256   
  Office Building                                                                                                             
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                              
Metro Plaza                                   686       202        --      8,038        --      202        8,038      8,240  
  Retail Center                                                                                                               
  Baltimore, MD                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                              
Montgomery Ward                             6,312       616     7,320         36        --      616        7,356      7,972   
  Office Building                                                                                                             
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                              
Crossing Business                                                                                                             
Center Phase II                             5,686       363     7,426       (215)       --      363        7,211      7,574   
  Office Building
  Las Vegas, NV
</TABLE>

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                      
                                                                                                       Life on which  
                                                                                                  depreciation in latest 
                                       Accumulated depreciation   Date of completion    Date         income statement 
                                          and amortization         of construction     acquired        is computed
                                       ------------------------   ------------------   --------   ----------------------
<S>                                    <C>                        <C>                  <C>        <C> 

3980 Howard                                      177                    04/97           06/96           Note 8
Hughes Parkway                             
  Office Building                          
  Las Vegas, NV                            
                                           
Crossing Business                          
Center Phase I                                   312                    12/94           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building                          
  Las Vegas, NV                            
                                           
3770 Howard                                
Hughes Parkway                                   527                    10/90           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building                          
  Las Vegas, NV                            
                                           
Metro Plaza                                    3,435                    N/A             12/82           Note 8
  Retail Center                            
  Baltimore, MD                            
                                           
Montgomery Ward                                  331                    10/95           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building                          
  Las Vegas, NV                            
                                           
Crossing Business                          
Center Phase II                                  271                    12/95           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building
  Las Vegas, NV
</TABLE>

                                     IV-12
<PAGE>
   Schedule III continued
   ----------------------

                       THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          Cost capitalized
                                                      Initial cost to      subsequent to      Gross amount at which carried
                                                          Company            acqisition          at December 31, 1997
                                                    -------------------  -------------------  -----------------------------
                                                                                                      Buildings   
                                                              Buildings                                  and
                                          Encum-                and                Carrying            Improve-    
                                         brances              Improve-   Improve-    costs               ments     
Description                              (note 4)      Land     ments      ments    (note 2)   Land     (note 3)     Total
- -----------                             ----------  --------  ---------  --------- ---------  ------   ----------   -------
                                                                        (in thousands)
<S>                                     <C>         <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>        <C>      <C>          <C> 
Equinox @ CBC                               7,171    1,257         398       5,696     --      1,257       6,094      7,351 
  Office Building                                                                                                           
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                            
Raytheon Building                              --      429       6,293         (59)    --        429       6,234      6,663 
  Office Building                                                                                                           
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                            
840 Grier                                   6,233      967       1,537       4,081     --        967       5,618      6,585 
  Office Building                                                                                                           
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                            
First National Bank Plaza                   5,357       --          --       6,330     --         --       6,330      6,330 
  Office Building                                                                                                           
  Mt. Prospect, IL                                                                                                          
                                                                                                                            
Plaza East                                  4,718      925       5,384          (6)    --        925       5,378      6,303 
  Office Building                                                                                                           
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                            
420 Pilot Road                              4,195    1,080        (108)      5,242     --      1,080       5,134      6,214 
  Office Building                                                                                                           
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                            
Plaza West                                  4,476      198       5,444         103     --        198       5,547      5,745 
  Office Building
  Las Vegas, NV
</TABLE>

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                      
                                                                                                       Life on which  
                                                                                                  depreciation in latest 
                                       Accumulated depreciation   Date of completion    Date         income statement 
                                          and amortization         of construction     acquired        is computed
                                       ------------------------   ------------------   --------   ----------------------
<S>                                    <C>                        <C>                  <C>        <C> 

Equinox @ CBC                                     42                    12/97           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building                                 
  Las Vegas, NV                                   
                                                  
Raytheon Building                                226                    11/92           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building                                 
  Las Vegas, NV                                   
                                                  
840 Grier                                        114                    03/97           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building                                 
  Las Vegas, NV                                   
                                                  
First National Bank Plaza                      1,753                    07/81           N/A             Note 8
  Office Building                                 
  Mt. Prospect, IL                                
                                                  
Plaza East                                       251                    12/93           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building                                 
  Las Vegas, NV                                   
                                                  
420 Pilot Road                                   226                    09/96           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building                                 
  Las Vegas, NV                                   
                                                  
Plaza West                                       222                    11/95           06/96           Note 8
  Office Building
  Las Vegas, NV
</TABLE>

                                     IV-13
<PAGE>
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                       THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          Cost capitalized
                                            Initial cost                   subsequent to       Gross amount at  which carried  
                                             to Company                     acquisition             at December 31, 1997    
                                        --------------------             -------------------   -------------------------------
                                                                                                       Buildings   
                                                         Buildings                                       and            
                                    Encum-                  and                     Carrying           Improve-      
                                   brances               Improve-        Improve-    costs               ments        
Description                        (note 4)     Land      ments           ments     (note 2)    Land    (note 3)     Total 
- --------------------------------  ----------  --------  ----------       --------   --------   ------  ----------   --------
                                                                       (in thousands)
<S>                                <C>         <C>      <C>              <C>         <C>      <C>        <C>        <C> 
975 Kelly Johnson Drive                3,985       383       5,289             --        --        383      5,289      5,672 
  Office Building                                                                                                            
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                             
980 Kelly Johnson Drive                3,385       827       4,843             --        --        827      4,843      5,670 
  Office Building                                                                                                            
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                             
Other properties and                                                                                                         
related investments                
less than 5% of total                 65,477    21,089      76,778         49,489        --     21,089    126,267    147,356 
                                   ---------   -------     -------      ---------   -------    -------  ---------  --------- 
                                                                                                                             
Total Operating Properties         2,072,929   231,935     400,780      2,447,247        --    231,935  2,848,027  3,079,962 
                                   ---------   -------     -------      ---------   -------    -------  ---------  --------- 
                                                                                                                             
Properties in Development                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                             
Oviedo Marketplace                    46,296    11,951          --         72,493        --     11,951     72,493     84,444
Retail Center under development                                                                                             
Orlando, FL                                                                                                                 
                                                                                                                            
Various Office Park Expansions            --    10,159          --         10,943        --     10,159     10,943     21,102
Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                            
Arizona Center                            --        --          --         16,373        --         --     16,373     16,373
Developed/developable land       
under master lease               
Phoenix, AZ                      

<CAPTION>
                                                                                                            Life on which
                                                                                                        depreciation in latest
                                            Accumulated depreciation    Date of completion      Date       income statement
Description                                     and amortization         of constrtuction     acquired        is computed
- --------------------------------            ------------------------    ------------------    --------  ---------------------- 
                                                                                (in thousands)
<S>                                         <C>                         <C>                     <C>      <C>
975 Kelly Johnson Drive                                   246                      11/90            06/96            Note 8
  Office Building                                                                                                 
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                  
980 Kelly Johnson Drive                                   223                      05/92            06/96            Note 8
  Office Building                                                                                                 
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                  
Other properties and                                                                                              
related investments                                                                                               
less than 5% of total                                  16,197                                                      
                                                     --------  
                                                                                                                  
Total Operating Properties                            515,229                                                      
                                                      -------                                                           
Properties in Development                                                                                         
                                                                                                                  
Oviedo Marketplace                                         --                      N/A              N/A              N/A
Retail Center under development                                                                                   
Orlando, FL                                                                                                       
                                                                                                                  
Various Office Park Expansions                             --                      N/A              06/96            N/A
Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                     
                                                                                                                  
Arizona Center                                             --                      N/A              N/A              N/A
Developed/developable land
under master lease
Phoenix, AZ
</TABLE>


                                     IV-14


<PAGE>
 
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------
                       THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                          Cost capitalized
                                              Initial cost                  subsequent to    Gross amount at  which carried  
                                              to Company                     acquisition          at December 31, 1997    
                                              --------------------       -------------------   -------------------------------
                                                                                                       Buildings   
                                                         Buildings                                     and            
                                    Encum-                  and                     Carrying           Improve-      
                                   brances               Improve-        Improve-     costs             ments        
Description                        (note 4)   Land         ments         ments      (note 2)   Land     (note 3)      Total 
- --------------------------------  ----------  --------  ----------       --------   --------   ------  ----------   --------
                                                                       (in thousands)
 
<S>                               <C>         <C>       <C>              <C>         <C>      <C>        <C>        <C> 
Perimeter Mall Expansion                  --       --        --            23,232        --        --      23,232     23,232 
  Expansion of retail center                                                                                                 
  Atlanta, GA                                                                                                                
                                                                                                                             
Owings Mills Expansion                    --    8,380        --            10,721        --     8,380      10,721     19,101 
  Expansion of retail center                                                                                                 
  Baltimore County, MD                                                                                                       
                                                                                                                             
3960 Howard Hughes Parkway                --      794        --            13,440        --       794      13,440     14,234 
  Office Building under                                                                                                      
  development                                                                                                                
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                             
Plymouth Meeting Expansion                --       --        --            13,509        --        --      13,509     13,509 
  Expansion of retail center                                                                                                 
  Montgomery County, PA                                                                                                      
                                                                                                                             
Exton Square Expansion                    --    3,251        --             7,885        --     3,251       7,885     11,136 
  Expansion of retail center                                                                                                 
  Exton, PA                                                                                                                  
                                                                                                                             
Canyon Center                             --    1,722        --             4,751        --     1,722       4,751      6,473 
  Office Building under
  development
  Las Vegas, NV





<CAPTION>
                                                                                                            Life on which
                                                                                                        depreciation in latest
                                            Accumulated depreciation    Date of completion      Date       income statement
Description                                     and amortization         of constrtuction     acquired        is computed
- --------------------------------            ------------------------    ------------------    --------  ---------------------- 
                                                                                (in thousands)
 
<S>                                         <C>                         <C>                    <C>      <C>
Perimeter Mall Expansion                               --                       N/A                 N/A              N/A      
  Expansion of retail center                                                                                                  
  Atlanta, GA                                                                                                                 
                                                                                                                              
Owings Mills Expansion                                 --                       N/A                 N/A              N/A      
  Expansion of retail center                                                                                                  
  Baltimore County, MD                                                                                                        
                                                                                                                              
3960 Howard Hughes Parkway                             --                       N/A                06/96             N/A      
  Office Building under development                                                                                           
  Las Vegas, NV                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                              
Plymouth Meeting Expansion                             --                       N/A                 N/A              N/A      
  Expansion of retail center                                                                                                  
  Montgomery County, PA                                                                                                       
                                                                                                                              
Exton Square Expansion                                 --                       N/A                 N/A              N/A      
  Expansion of retail center                                                                                                  
  Exton, PA                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                              
Canyon Center                                          --                       N/A                06/96             N/A      
  Office Building under development                                                                                
  Las Vegas, NV
</TABLE>



                                     IV-15


<PAGE>

                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Cost capitalized
                                               Initial cost to         subsequent to            Gross amount at which carried
                                                   Company              acquidsition                 at December 31, 1997
                                            --------------------    ---------------------     ---------------------------------
                                                                                                         Buildings
                                                       Buildings                                            and
                                 Encum-                   and                    Carrying                Improve- 
                                brances                Improve-     Improve-      costs                    ments     
Description                     (note 4)      Land       ments        ments      (note 2)       Land      (note 3)       Total
- --------------                  --------     ------    ---------    ---------    --------      ------    ---------      -------
                                                                         (in thousands)
<S>                              <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>         <C>     
White Marsh Expansion                 --     4,074            --        1,225          --       4,074       1,225         5,299
  Expansion of retail center  
  Baltimore, MD               
                              
Arizona Center Theatre                --        --            --        4,079          --          --       4,079         4,079
  Expansion of mixed-use      
  project                     
  Phoenix, AZ                 
                              
Paramus Park Expansion                --        --            --        4,392          --          --       4,392         4,392
  Expansion of retail center  
  Paramus, NJ                 
                              
Oakwood Expansion                     --     1,188            --        2,486          --       1,188       2,486         3,674
  Expansion of retail center  
  Gretna, LA                  
                              
Preconstruction costs                 --        --            --       16,659          --          --      16,659        16,659  
various projects              
                              
Preconstruction reserve               --        --            --      (17,351)         --          --     (17,351)      (17,351)
                              
Other projects less than      
5% of total                           --       432            --        5,561          --         432      5,561          5,993 
                                 -------    ------  ------------     --------     -------     -------   --------       -------- 
Total Properties in           
 Development                      46,296    41,951            --      190,398          --      41,951    190,398        232,349
                                 -------   -------  ------------     --------     -------     -------   --------       --------  
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       Life on which
                                                                                                   depreciation in latest
                                 Accumulated depreciation     Date of completion        Date          income statement
Description                          and amortization          of construction        acquired          is computed
- --------------                   ------------------------     ------------------      --------     ---------------------- 
                                                                     (in thousands)
<S>                                        <C>                     <C>                  <C>               <C> 
White Marsh Expansion                       --                          N/A             06/95                N/A 
  Expansion of retail center  
  Baltimore, MD               
                              
Arizona Center Theatre                      --                           N/A              N/A                N/A         
  Expansion of mixed-use      
  project                     
  Phoenix, AZ                 
                              
Paramus Park Expansion                      --                           N/A              N/A                N/A 
  Expansion of retail center  
  Paramus, NJ                 
                              
Oakwood Expansion                          N/A                           N/A              N/A                N/A 
  Expansion of retail center  
  Gretna, LA                  
                              
Preconstruction costs                      N/A                           N/A              N/A                N/A 
various projects              
                              
Preconstruction reserve                    N/A                           N/A              N/A                N/A 
                              
Other projects less than                   N/A                           N/A              N/A                N/A 
5% of total                    
                                 
Total Properties in           
 Development                   
</TABLE> 
                                     IV-16
<PAGE>
 
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------

                      THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)

                               December 31, 1997

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                          Cost capitalized
                                                      Initial cost to      subsequent to      Gross amount at which carried
                                                          Company            acqisition          at December 31, 1997
                                                    -------------------  -------------------  -----------------------------
                                                              Buildings                                Buildings   
                                         Encum-                  and               Carrying            Improve-    
                                         brances              Improve-   Improve-    costs               ments     
Description                              (note 4)      Land     ments      ments    (note 2)   Land     (note 3)     Total
- -----------                             ----------  --------  ---------  --------- ---------  ------   ----------   -------
                                                                        (in thousands)
<S>                                     <C>         <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>        <C>      <C>          <C> 

Properties held for sale:

Village of Cross Keys Inn                   --         --          --        7,795     --       --        7,795      7,795
  Hotel
  Baltimore, MD
 
Salem Mall                              35,193      1,285          --       21,355     --    1,285       21,355     22,640   
  Retail Center
  Dayton, OH
 
Eastfield Mall                           5,000      1,077          --       11,281     --    1,077       11,281     12,358   
  Retail Center
  Springfield, MA
 
Spectrum Club                               --        137       1,229        1,016     --      137        2,245      2,382   
  Office Building
  Las Vegas, NV
 
Other Properties held for       
sale, less than 5% of total                 --        291          --       12,538     --      291       12,538     12,829          
                                
Valuation allowance                         --         --          --      (37,952)    --       --      (37,952)   (37,952)        
                                     ---------  ---------   ---------    ---------  -----  -------    ---------  --------- 
Total Properties held           
for sale                                40,193      2,790       1,229       16,033     --    2,790       17,26      20,052   
                                     ---------  ---------   ---------    ---------  -----  -------    ---------  ---------  
Total Property                       2,159,418    274,258     402,009    2,656,096     --  274,258    3,058,105  3,332,363     
                                     =========  =========   =========    =========  =====  =======    =========  =========   
</TABLE>
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                      
                                                                                                       Life on which  
                                                                                                  depreciation in latest 
                                       Accumulated depreciation   Date of completion    Date         income statement 
                                          and amortization         of construction     acquired        is computed
                                       ------------------------   ------------------   --------   ----------------------
<S>                                    <C>                        <C>                  <C>        <C> 


 
Properties held for sale:
Village of Cross Keys Inn                        --                     09/65           N/A             N/A 
  Hotel                                                                                                    
  Baltimore, MD                                                                                            
                                                                                                           
Salem Mall                                       --                     10/66           N/A             N/A 
  Retail Center                                                                                            
  Dayton, OH                                                                                               
                                                                                                           
Eastfield Mall                                   --                     04/68           N/A             N/A 
  Retail Center
  Springfield, MA
 
Spectrum Club                                    --                     09/93           06/96           N/A
  Office Building
  Las Vegas, NV

Other Properties held for                        --     
sale, less than 5% of total      
                                
Valuation allowance                              --     
                                                                            
Total Properties held                            --                         
for sale                                                                    
                                       -----------------  
Total Property                              515,229     
                                       =================
</TABLE>                                  
                                          
                                     IV-17 
<PAGE>
 
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------
                       THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)
                               December 31, 1997

Notes:
 
(1)  Reference is made to notes 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 11, 12 and 16 to the consolidated
     financial statements. Land was generally acquired one to three years before
     completion of construction.
 
(2)  The determination of these amounts is not practicable and, accordingly,
     they are included in improvements.
 
(3)  Buildings and improvements include deferred costs of $111,455,000 at
     December 31, 1997.

(4)  Encumbrances on office buildings are included in operating property
     encumbrances.
 
(5)  The changes in total cost of properties for the years ended December 31,
     1997, 1996 and 1995 are as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<S>                                                     <C>                    <C>                   <C>
                                                                        1997                  1996                  1995
                                                                  ----------            ----------            ----------
                                                      
       Balance at beginning of year                               $3,691,600            $3,052,873            $2,994,412
       Additions, at cost                                            317,705               158,205                73,155
       Cost of properties acquired                                    84,743               602,944                78,605
       Additions to land held for                     
         development and sale                                        134,447                48,474                16,091
       Cost of land sales                                           (131,310)              (57,204)              (14,214)
       Retirements, sales and other                                                                                    
          dispositions                                              (114,435)              (85,167)              (75,787)
       Property of subsidiaries in which a                                 
          majority voting interest was sold                                
          to an affiliate                                           (621,338)                  ---                   ---
       Additions to preconstruction reserve                           (2,800)               (2,700)               (3,800)
       Provision for loss on operating properties                    (26,249)              (25,825)              (15,589)
                                                                  ----------            ----------            ----------
       Balance at end of year                                     $3,332,363            $3,691,600            $3,052,873
                                                                  ==========            ==========            ==========
</TABLE>
                                     IV-18
<PAGE>
 
                                                          Schedule III continued
                                                          ----------------------
                       THE ROUSE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
               Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (note 1)
                               December 31, 1997

Notes:
 
(6)  The changes in accumulated depreciation and amortization for the years
     ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 are as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
                                                         1997           1996           1995
                                                    --------------  -------------   -----------
<S>                                                 <C>             <C>             <C>
       Balance at beginning of year                      $ 552,201      $ 519,319     $ 490,158
       Depreciation and amortization                                              
          charged to operations                             86,009         79,990        73,062
       Retirements, sales and other, net                   (50,814)       (47,108)      (43,901)
       Accumulated depreciation on property of                                                
          subsidiaries in which a majority                                        
          voting interest was sold to an                                          
          affiliate                                        (72,167)           ---           ---
                                                         ---------      ---------     ---------
       Balance at end of year                            $ 515,229      $ 552,201     $ 519,319
                                                         =========      =========     =========
</TABLE> 
 
(7)   The aggregate cost of properties for Federal income tax purposes is
      approximately $3,437,074,000 at December 31, 1997.
 
(8)   Reference is made to note 1(c) to the consolidated financial statements
      for information related to depreciation.
 
(9)   Reference is made to note 12 to the consolidated financial statements for
      information related to provisions for losses on real estate assets.

(10)  Certain amounts for prior years have been reclassified to conform to the
      presentation for 1997.


                                     IV-19


<PAGE>
 
                                   SIGNATURES
                                   ----------


     Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
  Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed
  on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

  The Rouse Company



  By:  /s/Anthony W. Deering
      ----------------------
      Anthony W. Deering                                   March 27, 1998
      Chairman of the Board, President
         and Chief Executive Officer


     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
  report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
  Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

  Principal Executive Officer:



    /s/Anthony W. Deering
   ----------------------
  Anthony W. Deering                                       March 27, 1998
  Chairman of the Board, President
     and Chief Executive Officer


  Principal Financial Officer:



     /s/Jeffrey H. Donahue
   -----------------------
  Jeffrey H. Donahue                                       March 27, 1998
  Senior Vice President and
     Chief Financial Officer


  Principal Accounting Officer:



     /s/George L. Yungmann
   -----------------------
  George L. Yungmann                                       March 27, 1998
  Senior Vice President and Controller

                                     IV-20
<PAGE>
 
  Board of Directors:

     David H. Benson, Jeremiah E. Casey, Anthony W. Deering, Rohit M. Desai,
  Mathias J. DeVito, Juanita T. James, William R. Lummis, Thomas J. McHugh,
  Hanne M. Merriman, Roger W. Schipke, Alexander B. Trowbridge and Gerard J. M.
  Vlak.


  By:   /s/Anthony W. Deering
      -----------------------
      Anthony W. Deering                                   March 27, 1998
      For himself and as
      Attorney-in-fact for
      the above-named persons


                                     IV-21
<PAGE>
 
              CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
              ---------------------------------------------------



  The Board of Directors
  The Rouse Company:


     We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements
  of The Rouse Company on Form S-8 (Registration Nos. 2-83612, 33-56231, 33-
  56233, 33-56235 and 333-32277), Form S-3 (Registration Nos. 2-78898, 2-95596,
  33-52458, 33-57347, 33-57707 and 333-20781) and Form S-4 (Registration No.
  333-1693) of our report dated February 24, 1998, relating to the consolidated
  financial statements and related schedules of The Rouse Company and
  subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 and for each of the years in the
  three-year period ended December 31, 1997, which report appears in the Annual
  Report on Form 10-K of The Rouse Company for the year ended December 31, 1997.



                                         KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP



  Baltimore, Maryland
  March 27, 1998

                                     IV-22
<PAGE>
 
                                 Exhibit Index


Exhibit No.
- -----------

    3       Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws

   10       Material Contracts

   12.1     Ratio of earnings to fixed charges

   12.2     Ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and Preferred stock
              dividend requirements

   13       Annual report to security holders

   21       Subsidiaries of the Registrant

   24       Power of Attorney

   27       Financial Data Schedules:

   27.1     Financial Data Schedule

   27.2     Restated Financial Data Schedule,
            December 31, 1996

   27.3     Restated Financial Data Schedule,
            December 31, 1995

   99       Additional Exhibits:

   99.1     Form 11-K Annual Report of The Rouse Company Savings Plan for the
              year ended December 31, 1997

   99.2     Factors affecting future operating results
<PAGE>
 
Exhibit 3.  Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.

The Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation of The Rouse Company adopted 
  May 26, 1988 and the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of The
  Rouse Company, dated May 27, 1988, are incorporated by reference from the
  Exhibits to the Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year ended
  December 31, 1988.

The Articles of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation
  of The Rouse Company, which Articles of Amendment were effective January 10,
  1991, are incorporated by reference from the Exhibits to the Company's 
  Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1990.

The Articles Supplementary to the Charter of The Rouse Company, dated 
  February 17, 1993, are incorporated by reference from the Exhibits to the
  Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1992.

The Articles Supplementary to the Charter of The Rouse Company, dated 
  September 26, 1994, are incorporated by reference from the Exhibits to the
  Company's S-3 Registration Statement (No. 33-57707).

The Articles Supplementary to the Charter of The Rouse Company, dated 
  December 27, 1994, are incorporated by reference from the Exhibits to the
  Company's S-3 Registration Statement (No. 33-57707).

The Articles Supplementary to the Charter of The Rouse Company, dated June 5,
  1996, are incorporated by reference from the Exhibits to the Company's S-3
  Registration Statement (No. 333-20781).

The Articles Supplementary to the Charter of The Rouse Company, dated June 11,
  1996, are incorporated by reference from the Exhibits to the Company's 
  Form S-3 Registration Statement (No. 333-20781).

The Articles Supplementary to the Charter of The Rouse Company, dated 
  February 21, 1997, are incorporated by reference from the Exhibit to the
  Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated February 26, 1997.

The Bylaws of The Rouse Company, as amended November 19, 1996 and January 30,
  1997, are incorporated by reference from the Exhibits to the Company's 
  Form S-3 Registration Statement (No. 333-20781).

All documents referred to above may be found in Commission file number 0-1743.
<PAGE>
 
Exhibit 10.  Material Contracts.

The Company's 1985 Stock Option Plan and 1985 Stock Bonus Plan are incorporated
  by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to
  Regulation 14A on April 27, 1985, and the Amendment to The Rouse Company 1985
  Stock Option Plan, effective as of May 12, 1994 is incorporated by reference
  from the Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year ended 
  December 31, 1994.

The Company's 1990 Stock Option Plan and 1990 Stock Bonus Plan are incorporated
  by reference from the Company's definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to
  Regulation 14A on April 12, 1990, and the Amendment to The Rouse Company 1990
  Stock Option Plan, effective as of May 12, 1994, is incorporated by reference
  from the Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year ended 
  December 31, 1994.

The Company's 1994 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference from the
  Company's definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to Regulation 14A on 
  April 5, 1994.

The Amended and Restated Supplemental Retirement Benefit Plan of The Rouse
  Company, made as of January 1, 1985 and further amended and restated as of
  September 24, 1992, March 4, 1994, and May 10, 1995, is incorporated by
  reference from the Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year ended
  December 31, 1996.

The Contingent Stock Agreement, effective as of January 1, 1996, by the Company
  in favor of and for the benefit of the Holders and Representatives named
  therein is incorporated by reference from the Exhibits to the Company's 
  Form S-4 Registration Statement (No. 333-1693).

The Rouse Company Deferred Compensation Plan for Outside Directors (Amended and
  Restated), dated as of May 23, 1996, is incorporated by reference from the
  Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996.

The memorandum of agreement, dated December 19, 1996, between the Company and
  Mathias J. DeVito, then Chairman of the Board of the Company, is incorporated
  by reference from the Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year
  ended December 31, 1996.

The employment agreement, dated May 1, 1996, between John L. Goolsby, The Rouse
  Company and TRC Acquisition Company I is attached.

The Company's 1997 Stock Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference from the
  Company's definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to Regulation 14A on
  April 4, 1997.

The Rouse Company Special Option Plan, effective January 1, 1998, is attached.


All documents referred to above may be found in Commission file number 0-1743.

<PAGE>
 
                               THE ROUSE COMPANY


                               THE ROUSE COMPANY

                              SPECIAL OPTION PLAN


                        EFFECTIVE DATE JANUARY 1, 1998
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS



ARTICLE                                                PAGE

ARTICLE I
       PURPOSE......................................     1

ARTICLE II
       DEFINITIONS..................................     1
ARTICLE III
       OPTION GRANT.................................     3
ARTICLE IV
       OPTION EXERCISE..............................     6
ARTICLE V
       AMENDMENT OR TERMINATION.....................     8
ARTICLE VI
       ADMINISTRATION...............................     9
ARTICLE VII
       MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.....................    10
 
<PAGE>
 
                               THE ROUSE COMPANY

                              SPECIAL OPTION PLAN


                                   ARTICLE I

                                    PURPOSE

   1.1  PURPOSE.  The purpose of the Plan is to provide supplemental
compensation to certain key individuals, commensurate with their contributions
to the success of the Employer, in a form that will provide incentives and
rewards for superior performance, encourage the recipients to continue in the
employment of the Employer, and allow the recipients to diversify their
investment portfolios.

   1.2  INTENT.  The Plan is intended to be an unfunded plan maintained by the
Employer primarily for a select group of management or highly compensated
employees.  The Plan is also intended to be a nonqualified stock option plan
within the meaning of section 83 of the Code.

                                   ARTICLE II

                                  DEFINITIONS

   As used herein, the following capitalized words and phrases shall have the
respective meanings set forth below:

   2.1 "ADMINISTRATOR" means the Director of Human Resources and any individual
or entity designated by the Director of Human Resources pursuant to Section
6.2(f) of the Plan.  As described in section 6, the Administrator shall have the
ability to determine awards of Options and to administer the Plan.

   2.2 "BENEFICIARY" Means The person or persons designated by a Participant,
pursuant to Section 3.6, to exercise an Option after the Participant's death.

   2.3 "CHANGE OF CONTROL" means any change in (a) the effective control of the
employer, or (b) the ownership of a substantial portion of the assets of the
Employer, as defined under section 280g of the Code, except as otherwise
provided by written agreement executed by the Employer and a Participant prior
to such Change of Control.

   2.4 "CODE" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, any amendments thereto,
and any regulations or rulings issued thereunder.

   2.5 "EFFECTIVE DATE" means January 1, 1998.

   2.6 "EMPLOYEE" means any individual who is employed by the Employer.

                                       1
<PAGE>
 
   2.7 "EMPLOYER" means the Rouse Company and any successor thereto and any
other employer which adopts the Plan for the benefit of its employees.

   2.8 "ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, any
amendments thereto, and any regulations or rulings issued thereunder.

   2.9 "EXERCISE DATE" means the date upon which the Administrator approves the
Option exercise form which is completed and submitted to the Administrator with
respect to the Option being exercised.

   2.10 "EXERCISE PERIOD" means the period during which a Participant may
exercise an Option, as determined under Section 4.1.

   2.11 "EXERCISE PRICE" means the price to be paid by a Participant to exercise
an Option, as determined under Section 3.3 or under an Option Agreement signed
by the Participant and the Administrator.

   2.12 "FAIR MARKET VALUE" means the closing price of a share of Stock (as
defined in Section 2.19) reflected in the consolidated trading tables of The
Wall Street Journal, or other recognized market source, as determined by the
Administrator, on the applicable date of reference hereunder, or if there is no
sale on such date, then the closing price on the last previous day on which a
sale is reported.  Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, if Stock trading
operations require the use of the closing price of a share of Stock on the
trading date next preceding the date of reference in order to currently execute
a purchase or sale of a share of Stock, then such previous day price shall be
used and shall constitute the Fair Market Value of the stock on the applicable
reference date.

   2.13 "GRANT DATE" means, with respect to any Option, the date on which the
Option Agreement is executed by the Employer and the Participant.

   2.14 "OPTION" means the right of a Participant, granted by the Employer in
accordance with Section 3.2, to purchase Stock from the employer at the Exercise
Price.

   2.15 "OPTION AGREEMENT" means an agreement executed by the Employer and by a
Participant to whom Options have been awarded, acknowledging the issuance of the
Options and setting forth any terms pursuant to Section 3.2.    

   2.16 "PARTICIPANT" means any individual who meets the eligibility
requirements of Section 3.1, who has received an award of Options in accordance
with Section 3.2, and whose Options have not been completely exercised or
lapsed.  After a Participant's death, his Beneficiary is considered to be a
Participant to the extent necessary to facilitate the exercise of any Options
that continue to be exercisable under the terms of the Plan.  In the event of a
Participant's disability or other legal incapacity, the Participant's legal
representative is considered to be a Participant to the extent necessary to
facilitate the exercise of any Options that are or become exercisable under the
terms of the Plan. If a Participant has assigned his Options under Section 3.8
then the Participant's assignee is considered a Participant able to exercise
Options under the terms of the Plan.

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
   2.17 "PLAN" means The Rouse Company Special Option Plan as adopted by the
Employer and set forth herein and from time to time amended.

   2.18  "SPREAD" means The difference between the Fair Market Value of an
Option's Underlying Stock and the Exercise Price required to exercise such
Option.

   2.19 "STOCK" means the property subject to purchase through the exercise of
an Option. For purposes of the Plan, Stock shall be determined by the
Administrator and may consist of any of the following: (i) shares of common or
preferred stock of a corporation listed on a national securities exchange, (ii)
shares of the Employer, or (iii) shares of a registered investment company
regulated by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. Stock may be issued
in the form of shares, units or such other designated form, and, for purposes of
the Plan, the phrase "shares of" shall refer to the terminology most appropriate
to the particular form of Stock subject to Option under the Plan.

   2.20 "TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT" means an Employee's separation from the
service of the Employer (including all subsidiaries and affiliates of the
Employer) by reason of resignation, discharge, death or other termination.  The
Administrator may, in its discretion, determine whether any leave or other
absence from service constitutes a Termination of Employment for purposes of the
Plan.

                                  ARTICLE III

                                  OPTION GRANT

   3.1  ELIGIBILITY. Options may be granted to any Participant approved by the
Administrator who is an executive officer or other employee of the Employer who
occupies a managerial position and has the capability of making a contribution
to the success of the Employer.  In making this selection and in determining the
form and amount of Options, the Administrator shall consider any factors that it
deems relevant, including the individual's functions, responsibilities, value of
services to the Employer and past and potential contributions to the employer's
success and growth.

   3.2  GRANT OF OPTIONS.

   (A) IN GENERAL.  Options may be granted by the Administrator at any time on
or after the Effective Date and prior to the termination of the Plan.  Options
shall become effective upon the execution by the Employer and the Participant of
an Option Agreement specifying the Exercise Price and such other terms and in
such form as the Administrator may from time to time determine in accordance
with the Plan.  The Administrator may in its discretion set the minimum number
of Options allowed to be granted during any calendar year.

   (B) EFFECT OF CASH AND NONCASH DISTRIBUTIONS. In the event of the payment of
cash dividends or other noncash distributions with respect to the Option's
Stock, the following will occur.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
       (i) PAYMENT OF CASH DIVIDENDS. The treatment of cash dividends (or other
   cash distributions) will depend upon the actions taken by the issuer of the
   Stock with respect to such cash dividends or other cash distributions.

            (A) CASH DIVIDENDS REINVESTED AUTOMATICALLY BY ISSUER. Should the
          issuer of the Stock automatically reinvest into additional shares of
          Stock the cash dividends or other cash distributions paid on an
          Option's Stock, then, without further action on the part of the
          Administrator or the Participant, additional Options (for the same
          Stock) shall be considered to be granted to the Participant as of the
          date of such reinvestment.  The grant of new Options because of such
          distribution shall require the issuance of an Option Agreement for
          such new shares at the next normally scheduled Option Grant Date for
          the particular Participant. Any additional Options acquired pursuant
          to this method shall be subject to the same terms and conditions that
          would apply to the issuance of any other new Options under the Plan.
          The Participant shall be notified by the Administrator (or its
          representative) of the payment of the dividends.

            (B) CASH DIVIDENDS PAID TO EMPLOYER. Should the issuer of the Stock
          automatically pay to the Employer the cash dividends or other cash
          distributions paid on such Stock, then these distributions will be
          accumulated in a money market (or similar) account for the benefit of
          the Participant until the next Grant Date, at which time another
          Option shall be granted to the Participant.

       (ii) PAYMENT OF NONCASH DIVIDENDS.  In the event of a stock dividend,
   stock split, reverse stock split, rights offering recapitalization or similar
   transaction that affects the market value or the number of shares of the
   Stock to which an Option relates, then, without further action by the
   Administrator or the Participant, the Option's Exercise Price or the number
   of shares of Stock subject to the Option will be adjusted to maintain the
   same Exercise Price to Fair Market Value ratio that existed just prior to the
   transaction.

       Neither the adjustment of the Option's Exercise Price nor the number of
   shares of Stock subject to the Option shall require the issuance of a new
   Option Agreement reflecting the new Exercise Price or the number of shares of
   Stock now subject to the Option. Instead, the Participant shall be notified
   in writing by the Administrator (or its representative) of the adjustment of
   the Exercise Price or the number of shares of Stock now subject to the
   Option.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
   3.3  EXERCISE PRICE.  The Exercise Price shall be initially determined by the
Administrator and shall be noted on the individual Option Agreement signed by
the eligible Participant and the Administrator.  The Administrator has
determined the initial Exercise Price shall equal twenty-five percent (25%) of
the Fair Market Value of the Stock on the Grant Date.  Upon a request to
exercise any Option, the Exercise Price required to be paid by the Participant
shall be the greater of the Exercise Price on the Grant Date or twenty-five
percent (25%) of the Fair Market Value of the Stock on the Exercise Date.

   3.4   SUBSTITUTION OF OPTION PROPERTY.  The Administrator may, in its
discretion, after consultation with the Participant, change the Stock which is
subject to purchase by the Participant upon exercise of the Option. When a
substitution occurs, the Administrator and the Participant are required to
terminate the existing Option Agreement and adopt a new Option Agreement. The
new Option shall be awarded with an Exercise Price which, when subtracted from
the new underlying stock's current trading price, equals the Spread on the
original Option at the date of its termination. The new Option shall also be
subject to the same terms and conditions of the Plan which applied to the
original Option, including the original Exercise Period.  However, in the
discretion of the Committee, the new Option may be awarded with new terms and
conditions applicable only to the new Option, including a new Exercise Period.
Such change in Option property shall be considered the grant of new Options and
the terms of this Plan shall apply to the grant of the new Options.

   In the event that the listing, registration or qualification of the Option or
the Stock on any securities exchange or under any state or federal law, or the
consent or approval of any governmental regulatory body, is necessary as a
condition of, or in connection with, the exercise of the Option, then the Option
shall not be exercised in whole or in part until such listing, registration,
qualification, consent or approval has been effected or obtained.

   3.5   PURCHASE OF OPTION PROPERTY.  Upon the grant of an Option, the Employer
shall acquire an amount of Stock that represents the difference between (a) the
Fair Market Value of the Stock subject to purchase under the Option, and (b) the
Exercise Price of the Option.  At the time the Option is exercised, the Stock
acquired by the Employer pursuant to the preceding sentence shall not be subject
to any security interest, whether or not perfected, or to any Option or contract
under which any other person may acquire any interest in it.

   Upon a change in Option property pursuant to Section 3.4 above, the Employer
shall acquire new Stock that represents the difference between (a) the Fair
Market Value (taken as of the Grant Date of the new Option) of the new Stock
subject to purchase under the Option, and (b) the Exercise Price of the Option,
and the Employer may dispose of any Stock it holds which no longer represents
Stock subject to the Option.

   3.6  DESIGNATION OF BENEFICIARY.  As soon as practicable after the grant of
an Option, the Participant shall designate one or more Beneficiaries and
successor Beneficiaries, and may change a Beneficiary designation at any time,
by filing the prescribed form with the Administrator.  The consent of the
Participant's current Beneficiary shall not be required for a change of
Beneficiary.  No Beneficiary shall have any rights under the Plan or an Option
Agreement during the lifetime of the Participant, except as may otherwise be
provided herein.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
   A Participant who dies without having designated a Beneficiary in accordance
with this Section 3.6 and who is lawfully married on the date of death shall be
deemed to have named the Participant's surviving spouse as Beneficiary.

   Any other Participant who dies without having designated a Beneficiary in
accordance with this Section 3.6 shall be deemed to have named the Participant's
estate as Beneficiary.

   3.7  General Non-Transferability.  No Option granted under this Plan may be
transferred, assigned, or alienated (whether by operation of law or otherwise),
except as provided herein, and no Option shall be subject to execution,
attachment or similar process.  An Option may be exercised only by the
Participant or the Participant's Beneficiary pursuant to Section 3.6 or the
Participant's assignee pursuant to Section 3.8.

   3.8  PERMITTED TRANSFERS.  Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 3.7, a
Participant may at any time prior to death, assign all or any Options to:

       (a) the Participant's spouse or lineal descendants,

       (b) the trustee of a trust for the primary benefit of the Participant's
   spouse and/or lineal descendants, or

       (c) a partnership of which the Participant's spouse and/or lineal
   descendants are the only partners.

   Any such assignment shall be permitted only if an assignment is expressly
permitted in the Option Agreement, or approved in writing by the Administrator,
and the Participant receives no consideration for the assignment.  Any such
assignment shall be evidenced by an appropriate written document executed by the
Participant, and delivered to the Administrator on or before the effective date
of the assignment.  In the event of such assignment, the spouse, lineal
descendant, trustee or partnership shall be entitled to all of the rights of the
Participant with respect to the assigned portion of the Option, and such portion
of the Option, shall continue to be subject to all of the terms, conditions and
restrictions applicable to the Option, as set forth in the Plan and the Option
Agreement.

                                   ARTICLE IV

                                OPTION EXERCISE

   4.1  EXERCISE PERIOD. A Participant or the Participant's Beneficiary pursuant
to section 3.6 may exercise all or any Options at any time during the period
beginning six (6) months after the Grant Date and ending on the earliest of -

   fifteen (15) years after the date of grant, or

   six (6) months after his Termination of Employment, if he is terminated
     involuntarily for cause, or

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
   sixty (60) months after the Participant's date of death if the Termination of
     Employment is on account of retirement, death or disability, or

   sixty (60) months after the Participant's Termination of Employment, if his
     termination is for any reason not specified above in this Section 4.1.

   If a Participant or his Beneficiary fails to exercise an Option within the
Exercise Period, then the Participant or his Beneficiary or assignee loses all
rights with respect to such Option upon expiration of the Exercise Period.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, at no time shall the Exercise Period be less than
six months from the Grant Date or less than one year after the date of death of
the participant.

   4.2  OPTION EXERCISE.  A Participant or the Participant's Beneficiary
pursuant to Section 3.6 may exercise all or any of his Options by giving written
notice to the Administrator and tendering full payment of the Exercise Price by
check or other means acceptable to the Administrator on or about the Exercise
Date.  As provided in the Option Agreement, or with the prior written consent of
the Administrator, the Participant may tender payment in whole or in part
through the surrender of previously acquired Stock valued at Fair Market Value
on the Exercise Date.  The minimum number of Options allowed to be exercised at
any one time is the lesser of the following: (1) 50% of the total number of
Options currently eligible to be exercised or, (2) the number of Options for
which the Fair Market Value of the underlying Stock totals $5,000; provided,
however, that the Administrator may in its discretion permit the exercise of
fewer Options in certain exceptional circumstances.  For these purposes, the
term "underlying Stock" means the Stock which will be acquired by the
Participant upon the exercise of the Option. Any terms not specified in the Plan
shall be specified in the Option Agreement.  Neither the Participant nor his
Beneficiary shall have any of the rights and privileges of a shareholder with
respect to any Stock purchasable or issuable upon the exercise of an Option
prior to the date of exercise of such Option in accordance with this Section
4.2.

   In the event that the listing, registration or qualification of the Option or
the Stock on any securities exchange or under any state or federal law, or the
consent or approval of any governmental regulatory body, is necessary as a
condition of, or in connection with, the exercise of the Option, then the Option
will not be exercised in whole or in part until such listing, registration,
qualification, consent or approval has been effected or obtained.

   4.3  DELIVERY OF STOCK.  Within 5 (five) business days following the date
that a participant satisfies the conditions for exercising an Option in
accordance with Section 4.2, the Employer shall deliver or cause to be delivered
the Stock subject to such Option to the Participant or the Participant's
Beneficiary Pursuant to Section 3.6.

   4.4  TAX WITHHOLDING.  Whenever Stock is to be delivered upon exercise of an
Option under the Plan, the Employer shall require as a condition of such
delivery (a) the cash payment by the Participant of an amount sufficient to
satisfy all federal, state and local tax withholding requirements related
thereto, (b) the withholding of such amount from any Stock to be delivered to
the Participant, (c) the withholding of such amount from compensation otherwise
due to the Participant, or (d) any combination of the foregoing, at the election
of the Participant with the consent of the Employer.  Such election shall be
made before the date on 

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
which the amount of tax to be withheld is determined by the Employer, and such
election shall be irrevocable. With the consent of the Employer, the Participant
may elect a greater amount of withholding, not to exceed the estimated amount of
the Participant's total tax liability with respect to the delivery of Stock
under the Plan. Such election shall be made at the same time and in the same
manner as provided above.

   4.5  FAILURE TO EXERCISE.  No Option shall be exercised, in whole or in part,
after the end of the Exercise Period as stated in Section 4.1, and the Employer
shall have no obligation to deliver or cause to be delivered to the Participant
or the Participant's Beneficiary pursuant to Section 3.6 the Stock subject to
such Option.

                                   ARTICLE V

                            AMENDMENT OR TERMINATION

   5.1  PLAN AMENDMENT.  The Administrator may, from time to time in its
discretion, amend any provision of the Plan, in whole or in part, subject to
section 5.3 of the plan with respect to any Participant or group of
Participants.  Such amendment shall be effective as of the date specified
therein and shall be binding upon the Administrator, all Participants and
Beneficiaries, and all other persons claiming an interest under the Plan.

   5.2  PLAN TERMINATION.  The Plan shall terminate as the Administrator may
determine in its discretion.  Such termination shall be effective as of the date
determined by the Administrator and shall be binding upon the Administrator, all
Participants and Beneficiaries, and all other persons claiming an interest under
the Plan.  Options shall continue to be exercisable after the effective date of
such termination, and may be exercised in accordance with Article IV, but no new
Options shall be granted, except for Options required to be granted under
Section 3.2(b).

   5.3  AMENDMENT OF OPTIONS.  An Option may be amended by the Administrator at
any time if the Administrator determines that an amendment is necessary or
advisable as a result of:

       (A) any addition to or change in the Code or ERISA, a federal or state
   securities law or any other law or regulation, which occurs after the Grant
   Date and by its terms applies to the Option,

       (B) any substitution of stock acquired pursuant to Section 3.5, or

       (C) any Plan amendment pursuant to Section 5.1, or Plan termination
   pursuant to Section 5.2, provided that the amendment or termination does not
   materially affect the terms, conditions and restrictions applicable to the
   Option, or

       (D) any circumstances not specified in Paragraphs (a), or (b), or (c),
   with the consent of the Participant.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
   5.4  CHANGE OF CONTROL.  Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan or
an Option Agreement, in the event of a Change of Control, the Exercise Period
under Section 4.1 shall not end prior to six months after such Change of
Control, and the Option Agreement shall not be amended by the Administrator
under Section 5.3 for any reason without the consent of the Participant.

                                   ARTICLE VI

                                 ADMINISTRATION

   6.1  THE ADMINISTRATOR.  The Plan shall be administered by the Administrator
as defined in Section 2.1 of the Plan.

   6.2  POWERS OF THE ADMINISTRATOR.  In carrying out its duties with respect to
the general administration of the Plan, the Administrator shall have, in
addition to any other powers conferred by the Plan or by law, the following
powers:

       (a) to determine eligibility to participate in the Plan and eligibility
   to receive Options;

       (b) to grant Options, and to determine the form, amount and timing of
   such Options;

       (c) to determine the terms and provisions of the Option Agreements, and
   to modify such Option Agreements as provided in Section 5.3;

       (d) to maintain all records necessary for the administration of the Plan;

       (e) to prescribe, amend, and rescind rules for the administration of the
   Plan to the extent not inconsistent with the terms thereof;

       (f) to appoint such individuals and committees as it deems desirable for
   the conduct of its affairs and the administration of the Plan;

       (g) to employ counsel, accountants and other consultants to aid in
   exercising its powers and carrying out its duties under the Plan; and

       (h) to perform any other acts necessary and proper for the conduct of its
   affairs and the administration of the Plan.

   6.3  DETERMINATIONS BY THE ADMINISTRATOR.  The Administrator shall interpret
and construe the Plan and the Option Agreements, and its interpretations and
determinations shall be conclusive and binding on all Participants and
Beneficiaries.  The Administrator's interpretations and determinations under the
Plan and the Option Agreements need not be uniform and may be made by it
selectively among Participants, Beneficiaries and any other persons whether or
not they are similarly situated.

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
   6.4  INDEMNIFICATION OF THE ADMINISTRATOR.  The Employer shall indemnify and
hold harmless the Administrator against any and all expenses and liabilities
arising out of such member's action or failure to act in such capacity,
excepting only expenses and liabilities arising out of the Administrator's own
willful misconduct or failure to act in good faith.

   Expenses and liabilities against which a member of the Administrator is
indemnified hereunder shall include, without limitation, the amount of any
settlement or judgment, costs, counsel fees and related charges reasonably
incurred in connection with a claim asserted or a proceeding brought against him
or the settlement thereof.

   This right of indemnification shall be in addition to any other rights to
which the Administrator may be entitled.

   The Employer may, at its own expense, settle any claim asserted or proceeding
brought against the Administrator when such settlement appears to be in the best
interests of the Employer.

   6.5  EXPENSES OF THE ADMINISTRATOR.  The Administrator shall serve without
compensation for services as such.  All expenses of the Administrator shall be
paid by the Employer.

                                  ARTICLE VII

                            MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

   7.1  HEADINGS.  The headings of articles, sections and paragraphs are solely
for convenience of reference.  If there is any conflict between such headings
and the text of this Plan, the text shall control.

   7.2  GENDER.  Unless the context clearly requires a different meaning, all
pronouns shall refer indifferently to persons of any gender.

   7.3  SINGULAR AND PLURAL.  Unless the context clearly requires a different
meaning, singular terms shall also include the plural and vice versa.

   7.4  GOVERNING LAW.  Except to the extent preempted by federal law, the
construction and operation of the Plan shall be governed by the laws of the
State of Maryland without regard to the choice of law principles of such state.

   7.5  SEVERABILITY.  If any provision of this Plan is held illegal or invalid
by any court or governmental authority for any reason, the remaining provisions
shall remain in full force and effect and shall be construed and enforced in
accordance with the purposes of the Plan as if the illegal or invalid provision
did not exist.

   7.6  NO OBLIGATION TO EXERCISE.  The granting of an Option shall impose no
obligation upon a Participant to exercise such Option.

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
   7.7  NO RIGHTS OF SHAREHOLDER.  Neither the Participant nor a Beneficiary
shall have any of the rights and privileges of a shareholder with respect to any
Stock purchasable or issuable upon the exercise of an Option prior to the date
of exercise of such Option in accordance with Section 4.2 of the Plan.

   7.8  NO RIGHT TO CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT.  Nothing contained in the Plan shall
be deemed to give any person the right to be retained in the employ of the
Employer, or to interfere with the right of the Employer to discharge any person
at any time without regard to the effect that such discharge shall have upon
such person's rights or potential rights, if any, under the Plan.  The
provisions of the Plan are in addition to, and not a limitation on, any rights
that a Participant may have against the Employer by reason of any employment or
other agreement with the Employer.

   7.9  NOTICES.  Unless otherwise specified in an Option Agreement, any notice
to be provided under the Plan to the Administrator shall be mailed (by certified
mail, postage prepaid) or delivered to the Administrator in care of the Employer
at its executive offices, and any notice to the Participant shall be mailed (by
certified mail, postage prepaid) or delivered to the participant at the current
address shown on the payroll records of the Employer.  No notice shall be
binding on the Administrator until received by the Administrator, and no notice
shall be binding on the Participant until received by the Participant.



  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, The Rouse Company has caused these presents to be executed
by its duly authorized officer as of the 31st day of December, 1997.

                                    The Rouse Company
[Corporate Seal]

                              By:

                              Title:   ______________________________

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
                               THE ROUSE COMPANY
                              SPECIAL OPTION PLAN

                                OPTION AGREEMENT

The capitalized terms in this Option Agreement (the "Agreement") shall have the
same meanings as they do in The Rouse Company Special Option Plan (the "Plan").

     1.  Options shall be granted to _________________________ (name of
participant) as of the following Grant Dates, provided that Options shall be
granted to the Participant only on such dates as the Participant is eligible to
receive an Option under Article III of the Plan:


     Grant Date 1:  ____________________

     Grant Date 2:  ____________________

     Grant Date 3:  ____________________

     Grant Date 4:  ____________________


     2.  The number of Options granted pursuant to this Agreement as of each
Grant Date, the Stock subject to each such Option as of the applicable Grant
Date, and the Fair Market Value of such Stock on the applicable Grant Date,
shall be as set forth in the attached Addendum to this Agreement.

     3.  The initial Exercise Price for an Option as of the applicable Grant
Date shall equal twenty-five percent (25%) of the Fair Market Value of the Stock
subject to such Option on such Grant Date. The Exercise Price shall thereafter
be adjusted such that the Exercise Price to be paid upon exercise of the Option
shall be the greater of (a) the initial Exercise Price, or (b) twenty-five
percent (25%) of the Fair Market Value of the Stock subject to the Option on the
Exercise Date.

     4.  Except as specifically provided in this Agreement, the rights of the
Participant, or any other person entitled to exercise the Options, are governed
by the terms and provisions of the Plan which are incorporated by reference into
this Agreement.

     5.  The Options may be exercised only by the Participant, the Participant's
Beneficiary, or the Participant's assignee.  In addition, under the terms of
this Agreement, the transfer of Options is not allowable except as permitted
under Section 3.8 of the Plan.  The Options shall not otherwise be transferred,
assigned, pledged or hypothecated (whether by operation of law or otherwise),
except as provided herein, and no Options shall be subject to execution,
attachment or similar process.
<PAGE>
 
     6.  As a condition to receiving delivery and title to Stock subject to an
Option under the Plan, a Participant must properly complete the Option Exercise
Form provided by the Administrator and deliver the form to the Administrator in
person or mail (by certified mail, postage prepaid) the form to the
Administrator at the following address:

                         Vice President and Director of Human 
                         Resources and Administrative Services 
                         Division;
                         The Rouse Company
                         10275 Little Patuxent Parkway
                         Columbia, Maryland  21044-3456


     7.  Payment of the Exercise Price shall be made by check or other means
acceptable to the Administrator no later than one (1) business day after the
Exercise Date, or such later date as the Administrator permits in its
discretion, and the Participant must satisfy all federal, state and local
withholding tax requirements in any manner permitted under the Plan.

     8.  Options may be exercised at any time during the period beginning six
(6) months after the applicable Grant Date and ending the earliest of:

     fifteen (15) years after the Grant Date, or

     six (6) months after the Participant's Termination of Employment, if he is
terminated involuntarily for cause, or

     sixty (60) months after the Participant's date of death if the Termination
of Employment is on account of retirement, death or disability, or

     sixty (60) months after the Participant's Termination of Employment, if his
termination is for any reason not specified above or in Section 4.1 of the Plan;

     provided that in no event shall the Exercise Period for an Option be less
than six months from the Grant Date or less than one year after the date of
death of the Participant.

     9.  Neither the Participant nor a Beneficiary or assignee shall have any of
the rights or privileges of a stockholder with respect to any Stock purchasable
or issuable upon the exercise of an Option unless and until such Option is
exercised by such Participant or Beneficiary or assignee in accordance with
Section 4.2 of the Plan, and the transfer of ownership of the shares of Stock
has been completed.

     10.  The Options are conditioned upon the acceptance of this Agreement by
the Participant as evidenced by the return of an executed copy to the
Administrator.

     11.  Except to the extent preempted by federal law, the Options and this
Agreement shall be construed and interpreted according to the laws of the State
of Maryland without regard to its choice of law principles.
<PAGE>
 
The Rouse Company

By: __________________________________  Date: __________________________________


The undersigned has consulted with tax and legal advisors and is not relying on
the advice or representations of the Employer or the Administrator on any legal
or tax matters.

- -----------------------------------     ------------------------------------
Participant                             Date:
           
<PAGE>
 
                               THE ROUSE COMPANY
                              SPECIAL OPTION PLAN
                                        
                           OPTION AGREEMENT ADDENDUM

                                        

PARTICIPANT:    ___________________________

GRANT DATE:     ___________________________



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
    NAME OF STOCK            PER UNIT OR SHARE       NUMBER OF SHARES       AGGREGATE FAIR MARKET       EXERCISE PRICE PER UNIT
  SUBJECT TO OPTION         VALUE ON GRANT DATE          OR UNITS            VALUE AT GRANT DATE            ON GRANT DATE
<S>                       <C>                     <C>                      <C>                          <C>
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
 
______________________    ______________________  ______________________   ______________________       ______________________ 
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
                              --------------------


          This employment agreement ("Agreement") is entered into this 1st day
of May, 1996, by and between TRC ACQUISITION COMPANY I, THE ROUSE COMPANY and
JOHN L. GOOLSBY (the "Executive").

                             EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
                             ---------------------

          The Executive is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer
of The Hughes Corporation ("THC"), a Delaware corporation which is to be merged
with and into TRC Acquisition Company I, a subsidiary of The Rouse Company
("Rouse") on or about June 1, 1996, pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger
dated February 22, 1996 among THC, Rouse and TRC Acquisition Company I (the
"Merger"). Following the Merger, TRC Acquisition Company I, as the surviving
corporation will be a wholly owned subsidiary of Rouse, and will be renamed "The
Howard Hughes Corporation". (TRC Acquisition Company I as it currently exists
and as it is intended to exist after the Merger under the name "The Howard
Hughes Corporation" is herein referred to as the "Company".) It is intended that
the Company will conduct all of the business currently being conducted by The
Hughes Corporation and by Howard Hughes Properties, Limited Partnership and
their respective affiliates and subsidiaries. Rouse wishes to provide 
<PAGE>
 
for the Executive's continued employment as Chief Executive Officer of the
Company following the Merger.

          NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter
set forth, the parties agree as follows:

          1.   Employment, Term and Duties.
               --------------------------- 
          1.1       Employment.  The Company hereby employs the Executive and
                    ----------                                               
the Executive hereby accepts employment by the Company on the terms and
conditions set forth in this Agreement.

          1.2       Term.  The Executive's employment shall commence on the
                    ----                                                   
effective date of the Merger (the "Effective Date") and shall terminate on June
30, 1999, unless earlier terminated as provided in Section 4 below (the "Term").

          1.3       Duties.  During the Term, the Executive shall serve as the
                    ------                                                    
President and the Chief Executive Officer of the Company, with such customary
duties and responsibilities as are incident to said positions, including such
authority, duties, and responsibilities as set forth with respect to such
offices in the Company's articles and bylaws. The Executive shall report
directly to the Chief Executive Officer of Rouse (the "Rouse CEO"). The
Executive and the Company acknowledge that the Executive's responsibilities and
relationships with respect to the Company and Rouse are more fully described in
a letter dated 

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
March 29, 1996 from Anthony W. Deering to the Executive, to which reference is
hereby made. The Executive agrees to devote substantially all his attention and
time during normal business hours to the business and affairs of the Company and
to use his reasonable best efforts to perform faithfully and efficiently the
duties and responsibilities assigned to the Executive. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, the Executive may engage in the following activities (and shall be
entitled to retain all economic benefits thereof including fees paid in
connection therewith) as long as they do not interfere in any material respect
with the performance of the Executive's duties and responsibilities hereunder:
(i) serve on corporate, civic, religious, educational and/or charitable boards
or committees, (ii) deliver lectures, fulfill speaking engagements or teach on a
part-time basis at educational institutions and (iii) make investments in
businesses or enterprises and manage his personal investments; provided that
with respect to such activities Executive shall comply with Business Conduct and
Ethics Policy applicable to employees of Rouse and its subsidiaries. The parties
acknowledge that the Executive's participation as a director of the commercial
corporations listed on Schedule 1 attached hereto have been approved by the
Rouse CEO.

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
          2.   Compensation and Other Benefits.
               ------------------------------- 

          2.1       Base Compensation.  As compensation for services rendered
                    -----------------                                        
during the Term, the Company shall pay to the Executive an annual salary of
$475,000 (the "Base Salary"). The Personnel Committee of the Board of Directors
of Rouse (the "Committee") shall conduct a review of the Base Salary in
February, 1997, and thereafter at such time or times as the Committee reviews
the annual compensation of the executives of Rouse in general, and the Executive
shall be entitled at such time or times to such annual increase in the Base
Salary as is in accordance with the then prevailing policy of Rouse with respect
to executive compensation in general; provided, that such salary may not be
reduced at any time. The Base Salary shall be payable in accordance with the
payroll policies of Rouse as from time to time in effect, less such amounts as
shall be required to be deducted or withheld therefrom by applicable law and
regulations.

          2.2       Annual Bonus. In addition to the Base Salary, the Executive
                    ------------                                               
shall be eligible to receive, for each calendar year or portion thereof
occurring during the Term, an annual bonus (the "Annual Bonus") in an amount up
to seventy-five percent (75%) of the Executive's Base Salary for such calendar
year or portion thereof. The amount of any such Annual Bonus

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
shall be determined by the Committee, based on the recommendation of the Rouse
CEO, in accordance with the standard practice of such Committee relating to the
incentive compensation program of Rouse. The Annual Bonus shall be paid to the
Executive, less such amounts as shall be required to be deducted or withheld
therefrom by applicable law and regulations, at such time or times as is in
accordance with the then prevailing policy of Rouse relating to incentive
compensation payments.

          2.3       Stock Grant and Stock Option.
                    ---------------------------- 
          (a) Stock Grant and Loan.  As of the Effective Date, Rouse shall grant
              --------------------                                              
Executive a stock grant of 40,000 shares of Rouse's Common Stock pursuant to
Rouse's 1994 Stock Incentive Plan.  The terms, conditions and restrictions with
regard to such stock grant shall be evidenced by a letter agreement between
Rouse and the Executive in the form of Exhibit A attached hereto which shall be
                                       ---------                               
incorporated herein by reference and its terms, conditions and notifications
shall be considered a part of this Agreement.

          In connection with the stock grant, Executive shall be entitled to
receive a loan from Rouse for the purpose of funding income tax payable with
regard to the stock grant in an amount equal to one-half ( 1/2) of the product
of (i) 40,000 shares 

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
multiplied by (ii) the market price per share of Rouse Common Stock as of the
Effective Date. The terms and conditions of said loan shall be evidenced by a
loan agreement substantially in the form of Exhibit B attached hereto which
                                            ---------
shall be incorporated herein by reference and its terms, conditions and
notifications shall be considered a part of this Agreement.

          b.        Stock Options.  As of the Effective Date, Rouse shall grant
                    -------------                                        
Executive a stock option for 40,000 shares of Rouse Common Stock pursuant to
Rouse's 1994 Stock Incentive Plan. The maximum number of such options which
qualify as "qualified stock options" shall be granted as "qualified stock
options" and the remainder of such options shall be non-qualified stock options.
The terms, conditions and restrictions with regard to said stock options shall
be evidenced by an Incentive Stock Option Agreement (as to the qualified stock
options) and a Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement (as to the non-qualified
stock options), substantially in the forms attached hereto as Exhibit C-1 and
                                                              -----------    
Exhibit C-2 respectively which shall be incorporated herein by reference and
- -----------                                                                 
their terms, conditions and restrictions shall be considered a part of this
Agreement.

          2.4       Participation in Employee Benefit Plans. The Company agrees
                    ---------------------------------------                    
to permit the Executive during the Term to 

                                      -6-
<PAGE>
 
participate in any group life, hospitalization and/or disability insurance plan,
health program, supplemental executive retirement plan, nonqualified
compensation plan, pension and/or savings plans, long-term incentive plan,
receive "fringe benefits," e.g., club memberships and automobile allowance, and
                           ----
participate in such other benefit plans or programs of the Company (collectively
"Benefits"). The Company also agrees to implement such other benefit plans (the
"Other Benefit Plans") for the benefit of Executive to the extent Rouse offers
its comparable senior executives benefits that are not currently offered by the
Company. The Other Benefit Plans shall provide Executive benefits that are no
less favorable than those benefits which are available to comparable senior
executives of Rouse or its subsidiaries. For this purpose, a comparable
executive shall be the Executive Vice President of Rouse, and such benefits
shall be no less than those offered to the Executive Vice President of Rouse. In
addition, the Company agrees that for purposes of determining Executive's
eligibility for the Benefits and the Other Benefit Plans, Executive's prior
service with Summa Corporation, THC and Howard Hughes Properties, Limited
Partnership and their respective affiliates and subsidiaries shall count towards
the Executive's eligibility, vesting and 

                                      -7-
<PAGE>
 
benefit accrual under the plans, and the Company agrees to take all action that
may be necessary to amend the respective plan documents to provide for this past
service credit. The Company also agrees to provide life insurance to the
Executive during the Term in an amount equal to two times the Executive's Base
Compensation.

          2.5       General Business Expenses. The Company shall pay or
                    -------------------------                          
reimburse the Executive for all expenses that are consistent with Rouse policy
and reasonably and necessarily incurred by the Executive during the Term in the
performance of the Executive's duties under this Agreement. Such payment shall
be made upon presentation of such documentation as Rouse customarily requires of
its executive employees prior to making such payments or reimbursements.

          2.6.           Vacation.  During the Term, the Executive shall be
                         --------                          
entitled to five weeks of vacation per year. The Executive shall not be
permitted to accumulate and carryover unused vacation time or pay from year to
year except to the extent permitted in accordance with Rouse's vacation policy
for senior executives.

                                      -8-
<PAGE>
 
          3.          Non-Competition.
                      --------------- 

          3.1         Covenants Against Competition. The Executive acknowledges
                      -----------------------------                            
that as of the execution of this Employment Agreement (i) the Company is engaged
in the business of commercial and community real estate development and office
and industrial building development (the "Business") (provided the Business
shall not be deemed to include residential real estate brokerage or residential
construction activities); (ii) the Company's Business is conducted in the
greater Las Vegas, Nevada metropolitan area; (iii) his employment with the
Company will have given him access to confidential information concerning the
Company; and (iv) the agreements and covenants contained in this Agreement are
essential to protect the business and goodwill of the Company. Accordingly, the
Executive covenants and agrees as follows:

               (a) Non-Compete.  Without the prior written consent of the Chief
                   ------------                                                
     Executive Officer of Rouse or the Board of Directors of the Company, the
     Executive shall not during the Restricted Period (as defined below) in the
     greater Las Vegas, Nevada metropolitan area, directly (except in the
     Executive's capacity as an officer of the Company or any of its
     affiliates); (i) engage or participate in the Business; 

                                      -9-
<PAGE>
 
     (ii) enter the employ of, or render any services (whether or not for a fee
     or other compensation) to, any person engaged in the Business; or (iii)
     acquire an equity interest in any such person in any capacity; provided,
     that the foregoing restrictions shall not apply at any time if the
     Executive's employment is terminated during the Term by the Executive for
     Good Reason (as defined in the Executive's Option Agreement) or by the
     Company without good cause (as defined in the Executive's Loan Agreement);
     provided, further, that during the Restricted Period the Executive may own,
     ------------------
     directly or indirectly, solely as a passive investment, securities of any
     company traded on any national securities exchange or on the National
     Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System. As used
     herein, the "Restricted Period" shall mean the period commencing with the
     effective date of this Agreement and ending on the first anniversary of the
     last day of the Term.

               (b) Confidential Information; Personal Relationships. The
                   ------------------------------------------------     
     Executive acknowledges that the Company has a legitimate and continuing
     proprietary interest in the protection of its confidential information and
     has invested substantial sums and will continue to invest substantial 

                                      -10-
<PAGE>
 
     sums to develop, maintain and protect confidential information. The
     Executive agrees that, during and after the Restricted Period, without the
     prior written consent of the Chief Executive Officer of Rouse or the Board
     of Directors of the Company, the Executive shall keep secret and retain in
     strictest confidence, and shall not knowingly use for the benefit of
     himself or others all confidential matters relating to the Company's
     Business including, without limitation, operational methods, marketing or
     development plans or strategies, business acquisition plans, joint venture
     proposals or plans, and new personnel acquisition plans, learned by the
     Executive heretofore or hereafter (such information shall be referred to
     herein collectively as "Confidential Information"); provided, that nothing
     in this Agreement shall prohibit the Executive from disclosing or using any
     Confidential Information (A) in the performance of his duties hereunder,
     (B) as required by applicable law, (C) in connection with the enforcement
     of his rights under this Agreement or any other agreement with the Company
     or Rouse, or (D) in connection with the defense or settlement of any claim,
     suit or action brought or threatened against the Executive by or in the
     right of the 

                                      -11-
<PAGE>
 
     Company or Rouse. Notwithstanding any provision contained herein to the
     contrary, the term "Confidential Information" shall not be deemed to
     include any general knowledge, skills or experience acquired by the
     Executive or any knowledge or information known or available to the public
     in general. Moreover, the Executive shall be permitted to retain copies of,
     or have access to, all such Confidential Information relating to any
     disagreement, dispute or litigation (pending or threatened) involving the
     Executive.

               (c) Employees of the Company and its Affiliates. During the
                   -------------------------------------------            
     Restricted Period, without the prior written consent of the Chief Executive
     Officer of Rouse or the Board of Directors of the Company, the Executive
     shall not, directly or indirectly, hire or solicit, or cause others to hire
     or solicit, for employment by any person other than the Company or any
     affiliate or successor thereof, any employee of, or person employed within
     the two years preceding the Executive's hiring or solicitation of such
     person by, the Company and its affiliates or successors or encourage any
     such employee to leave his employment.  For this purpose, any person whose
     employment has been terminated involuntarily by Rouse or the Company shall
     be excluded from 

                                      -12-
<PAGE>
 
     those persons protected by this Section 3.1(c) for the benefit of the
     Company.

               (d) Business Relationships.  During the Restricted Period, the
                   ----------------------                                    
     Executive shall not, directly or indirectly, request or advise a person
     that has a business relationship with the Company to curtail or cancel such
     person's business relationship with the Company.

          3.2       Rights and Remedies Upon Breach.  If the Executive breaches,
                    -------------------------------                             
or threatens to commit a breach of, any of the provisions contained in Section
3.1 of this Agreement (the "Restrictive Covenants"), the Company shall have the
following rights and remedies, each of which rights and remedies shall be
independent of the others and severally enforceable, and each of which is in
addition to, and not in lieu of, any other rights and remedies available to the
Company under law or in equity.

               (a) Specific Performance.  The right and remedy to have the
                   --------------------                                   
     Restrictive Covenants specifically enforced by any court of competent
     jurisdiction, it being agreed that any breach or threatened breach of the
     Restrictive Covenants would cause irreparable injury to the Company and
     that money damages would not provide an adequate remedy to the Company.

                                      -13-
<PAGE>
 
               (b) Accounting.  The right and remedy to require the Executive to
                   ----------                                                   
     account for and pay over to the Company all compensation, profits, monies,
     accruals, increments or other benefits derived or received by the Executive
     as the result of any action constituting a breach of Restrictive Covenants.

          3.3  Severability of Covenants.  The Executive acknowledges and agrees
               -------------------------                                        
that the Restrictive Covenants are reasonable and valid in duration and
geographical scope and in all other respects.  If any court determines that any
of the Restrictive Covenants, or any part thereof, is invalid or unenforceable,
the remainder of the Restrictive Covenants shall not thereby be affected and
shall be given full effect without regard to the invalid portions.  The
provisions set forth in Section 3.1 above shall be in addition to any other
provisions of the Business Conduct and Ethics Policy applicable to employees of
Rouse and its subsidiaries during the term of Executive's employment.

          4.   Termination.
               ----------- 

          4.1       Termination upon Death or Disability.  If the Executive
                    ------------------------------------                   
either dies or becomes entitled to benefits under a Company long-term disability
plan or program during the Term, the 

                                      -14-
<PAGE>
 
Term shall automatically terminate thereupon, and the Executive or the
Executive's estate, as the case may be, shall be entitled to receive, in
addition to any life insurance or disability benefits which are payable, as soon
as reasonably practicable after the separate determinations thereof, (i) the
Base Salary earned, but unpaid, up to such date of termination, (ii) any unpaid
vested Benefits accrued up to such date of termination, (iii) an amount equal to
the product of (a) the Annual Bonus, if any, otherwise payable with respect to
the year in which the Term is terminated, multiplied by (b) a fraction, the
numerator of which is the number of days elapsed in such year as of the
termination date and the denominator of which is 365. These items are in
addition to and shall not reduce any other benefits to which the Executive or
his estate may be entitled (such as the stock grant, the loan agreement, and the
stock options).

          4.2  Other Termination.
               ----------------- 

          (a) Termination With and Without Cause. Notwithstanding any provision
              ----------------------------------                               
     of the Agreement to the contrary, the Company has the right, at any time
     during the Term, exercisable by serving written notice, effective on or
     after the date of service of such notice as specified therein, to terminate
     the Executive's employment under this 

                                      -15-
<PAGE>
 
     Agreement and to discharge the Executive with or without cause. To be
     valid, any such notice may be effective no sooner than 30 days after
     service, and it must state whether the termination is with cause (and the
     reasons therefor) or without cause. Any such termination of employment by
     the Company, whether with or without cause or voluntary or involuntary,
     shall terminate the Term and thereafter no amounts shall be payable, or
     Benefits provided, to the Executive by the Company pursuant to this
     Agreement except as provided herein, including: (i) the Base Salary then
     earned, but unpaid, plus an amount equal to the Base Salary which would
     have been earned up to and including the end of the Term (as otherwise
     determined before such termination), (ii) any unpaid vested Benefits
     accrued up to such date of termination, (iii) an amount equal to the
     aggregate of the Annual Bonuses which would have been payable on account of
     any periods ending on or before the end of the Term (as otherwise
     determined before such termination), which bonuses shall, for each such
     period be equal to sixty percent (60%) of the then current Base Salary. All
     of the foregoing amounts shall be payable in a lump sum, less such amounts
     as shall be required to be deducted or withheld therefrom by 

                                      -16-
<PAGE>
 
     applicable law and regulations, within fifteen (15) days after the
     termination date. (iv) To the extent the Executive is eligible thereunder,
     for a period through the end of the Term (as otherwise determined before
     termination pursuant to Section 4.2 hereof), the Executive shall continue
     to be provided life insurance, disability, long-term disability policies
     and any other Benefits provided to the Executive on the date hereof or such
     successor policies in effect at the time of the Executive's termination,
     and shall also continue to be covered for the applicable period by such
     other insurance, disability, health or other Benefit program, plan or
     policy by which he was covered at the time of the Executive's termination.
     In the event the Executive is ineligible to continue to be so covered under
     the terms of any such life insurance, disability, long-term disability,
     insurance, health or other Benefit program, plan or policy, the Company
     shall provide to the Executive through other sources such benefits,
     including such additional benefits, as may be necessary to make the
     benefits applicable to the Executive substantially equivalent to those in
     effect immediately prior to such termination, provided that if during such
                                                   --------
     period the 

                                      -17-
<PAGE>
 
     Executive should enter into the employ of another company or firm which
     provides to the Executive substantially similar benefit coverage, the
     Executive's participation in the comparable benefits provided by the
     Company, either directly or through such other sources, shall cease.
     Nothing contained in this paragraph shall be deemed to require or permit
     termination or restriction of any of the Executive's coverage under any
     plan or program of the Company or any of its subsidiaries or any successor
     plan or program thereto to which the Executive is entitled under the terms
     of such plan or program, whether at the end of the aforementioned period or
     at any other time.

          These items are in addition to and shall not reduce any other benefits
     to which the Executive may be entitled (such as, the stock grant, the loan
     agreement, and the stock options).

          Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent the Executive's right to
terminate his employment with the Company.

          (b) Termination for Good Reason.  Notwithstanding any provision of the
              ---------------------------                                       
     Agreement to the contrary, the Executive has the right, at any time during
     the Term, exercisable by serving written notice, effective on or after the
     date of 

                                      -18-
<PAGE>
 
     service of such notice as specified therein, to terminate his employment
     under this Agreement with or without Good Reason (as defined in the
     Executive's option agreement). Any such termination shall terminate the
     Term, and in the case of the Executive's termination for Good Reason, the
     following amounts shall be payable or provided by the Company: (i) the Base
     Salary then earned, but unpaid, plus an amount equal to the Base Salary
     which would have been earned up to and including the end of the Term (as
     otherwise determined before such termination), (ii) any unpaid vested
     Benefits accrued to such date of termination, (iii) an amount equal to the
     aggregate Annual Bonuses which would have been payable on account of any
     periods ending on or before the end of the Term (as otherwise determined
     before such termination) which bonuses shall, for each such period be equal
     to sixty percent (60%) of the then current Base Salary. All of the
     foregoing amounts shall be payable in a lump sum, less such amounts as
     shall be required to be deducted or withheld therefrom by applicable law
     and regulations, within fifteen (15) days after the termination date. (iv)
     To the extent the Executive is eligible thereunder, for a period through
     the end of the Term (as 

                                      -19-
<PAGE>
 
     otherwise determined before termination pursuant to Section 4.2 hereof),
     the Executive shall continue to be provided life insurance, disability,
     long-term disability policies and any other Benefits provided to the
     Executive on the date hereof or such successor policies in effect at the
     time of the Executive's termination, and shall also continue to be covered
     for the applicable period by such other insurance, disability, health or
     other Benefit program, plan or policy by which he was covered at the time
     of the Executive's termination. In the event the Executive is ineligible to
     continue to be so covered under the terms of any such life insurance,
     disability, long-term disability, insurance, health or other Benefit
     program, plan or policy, the Company shall provide to the Executive through
     other sources such benefits, including such additional benefits, as may be
     necessary to make the benefits applicable to the Executive substantially
     equivalent to those in effect immediately prior to such termination,
     provided that if during such period the Executive should enter into the
     employ of another company or firm which provides to the Executive
     substantially similar benefit coverage, the Executive's participation in
     the comparable benefits provided by the 

                                      -20-
<PAGE>
 
     Company, either directly or through such other sources, shall cease.
     Nothing contained in this paragraph shall be deemed to require or permit
     termination or restriction of any of the Executive's coverage under any
     plan or program thereto to which the Executive is entitled under the terms
     of such plan or program, whether at the end of the aforementioned period or
     at any other time. These items are in addition to and shall not reduce any
     other benefits to which the Executive may be entitled (such as the Stock
     Grant, the Loan Agreement, and the Stock Agreement).

          (c) Termination Without Good Reason.  Notwithstanding any provision of
              -------------------------------                                   
     the Agreement to the contrary, the Executive has the right, at any time
     during the Term, exercisable by serving written notice, effective on or
     after the date of service of such notice as specified therein, to terminate
     his employment under this Agreement with or without Good Reason (as defined
     in the Executive's option agreement).  Any such termination shall terminate
     the Term, and in the case of the Executive's termination without Good
     Reason the following amounts shall be payable or provided by the Company:
     (i) the Base Salary then earned, but unpaid, (ii) any unpaid vested
     Benefits accrued to such date of 

                                      -21-
<PAGE>
 
     termination, (iii) an amount equal to the product of (a) the Annual Bonus,
     if any, otherwise payable with respect to the year in which the Term is
     terminated, multiplied by (b) a fraction, the numerator of which is the
     number of days elapsed in such year as of the termination date and the
     denominator of which is 365. All of the foregoing amounts shall be payable
     in a lump sum, less such amounts as shall be required to be deducted or
     withheld therefrom by applicable law and regulations, within fifteen (15)
     days after the termination date.

          These items are in addition to and shall not reduce any other benefits
     to which the Executive may be entitled (such as, the stock grant, the loan
     agreement, and the stock options).

          4.3  Stock Grant and Stock Options.  In the event of any termination
               -----------------------------                      
described in Sections 4.1 or 4.2 above, Executive's rights with regard to his
stock grant, loan agreement and stock options shall be as set forth in the
respective agreement containing the terms and conditions pertaining thereto.

          4.4  Certain Additional Payments by the Company. Anything in this
               ------------------------------------------                  
Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, in the event it shall be determined
that any payment or distribution 

                                      -22-
<PAGE>
 
by the Company to or for the benefit of the Executive, whether paid or payable
or distributed or distributable pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or
otherwise (a "Payment"), would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section
4999 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") or any
interest or penalties with respect to such excise tax (such excise tax, together
with any such interest and penalties, are hereinafter collectively referred to
as the "Excise Tax"), then the Executive shall be entitled to receive an
additional payment (a "Gross-Up Payment") in an amount such that after payment
by the Executive of all taxes (including any interest or penalties imposed with
respect to such taxes), including any Excise Tax imposed upon the Gross-Up
Payment, the Executive retains an amount of the Gross-Up Payment equal to the
Excise Tax imposed upon the Payments. Subject to the provisions of this Section
4.4, all determinations required to be made hereunder, including whether a 
Gross-Up Payment is required and the amount of such Gross-Up Payment, shall be
made by KPMG Peat Marwick or such other accounting firm which at the time audits
the financial statements of the Company (the "Accounting Firm") at the sole
expense of the Company, which shall provide detailed supporting calculations
both to the Company and the Executive within 15 business days of the date of

                                      -23-
<PAGE>
 
termination of the Executive's employment under this Agreement, if applicable,
or such earlier time as is requested by the Company. If the Accounting Firm
determines that no Excise Tax is payable by the Executive, the Accounting Firm
shall furnish the Executive with an opinion that he has substantial authority
not to report any Excise Tax on his federal income tax return. Any determination
by the Accounting Firm shall be binding upon the Company and the Executive. As a
result of the uncertainty in the application of Section 4999 of the Code at the
time of the initial determination by the Accounting Firm hereunder, it is
possible that Gross-Up Payments, which will not have been made by the Company
should have been made (an "Underpayment"), consistent with the calculations
required to be made hereunder. If the Company exhausts its remedies pursuant
hereto and the Executive thereafter is required to make a payment of any Excise
Tax, the Accounting Firm shall determine the amount of the Underpayment that has
occurred and any such Underpayment shall be promptly paid by the Company to or
for the benefit of the Executive.

          The Executive shall notify the Company in writing of any claim by the
Internal Revenue Service that, if successful, would require the payment by the
Company of the Gross-Up Payment. Such notification shall be given as soon as
practicable but no 

                                      -24-
<PAGE>
 
later than ten business days after the Executive knows of such claim and shall
apprise the Company of the nature of such claim and the date on which such claim
is requested to be paid. The Executive shall not pay such claim prior to the
expiration of the 30-day period following the date on which it gives such notice
to the Company (or such shorter period ending on the date that any payment of
taxes with respect to such claim is due). If the Company notifies the Executive
in writing prior to the expiration of such period that it desires to contest
such claim, the Executive shall:

               (i) give the Company any information reasonably requested by the
          Company relating to such claim,

               (ii) take such action in connection with contesting such claim as
          the Company shall reasonably request in writing from time to time,
          including (without limitation) accepting legal representation with
          respect to such claim by an attorney reasonably selected by the
          Company,

               (iii) cooperate with the Company in good faith to contest
          effectively such claim, and

               (iv) permit the Company to participate in any proceedings
          relating to such claim;

                                      -25-
<PAGE>
 
provided that the Company shall bear and pay directly all costs and expenses
- --------                                                                    
(including additional interest and penalties) incurred in connection with such
contest and shall indemnify and hold the Executive harmless, on an after-tax
basis, for any Excise Tax or income tax, including interest and penalties with
respect thereto, imposed as a result of such representation and payment of costs
and expenses.  Without limitation on the foregoing provisions hereof the Company
shall control all proceedings taken in connection with such contest and, at its
sole option, may pursue or forgo any and all administrative appeals,
proceedings, hearings and conferences with the taxing authority in respect of
such claim and may, at its sole option, either direct the Executive to pay the
tax claimed and sue for a refund or contest the claim in any permissible manner,
and the Executive agrees to prosecute such contest to a determination before any
administrative tribunal, in a court of initial jurisdiction and in one or more
appellate courts, as the Company shall determine, provided that if the Company
                                                  --------                    
directs the Executive to pay such claim and sue for a refund, the Company shall
advance the amount of such payment to the Executive, on an interest-free basis
and shall indemnify and hold the Executive harmless, on an after-tax basis, from
any Excise Tax or income 

                                      -26-
<PAGE>
 
tax, including interest or penalties with respect thereto, imposed with respect
to such advance or with respect to any imputed income with respect to such
advance, and further provided that any extension of the statute of limitations
             -----------------
relating to payment of taxes for the taxable year of the Executive with respect
to which such contested amount is claimed to be due is limited solely to such
contested amount. Furthermore, the Company's control of the contest shall be
limited to issues with respect to which a Gross-Up Payment would be payable
hereunder and the Executive shall be entitled to settle or contest, as the case
may be, any other issue raised by the Internal Revenue Service or any other
taxing authority.

          If, after the receipt by the Executive of an amount advanced by the
Company pursuant hereto, the Executive becomes entitled to receive any refund
with respect to such claim, the Executive shall (subject to the Company's
complying with the requirements hereof) promptly pay to the Company the amount
of such refund (together with any interest paid or credited thereon after taxes
applicable thereto).  If, after the receipt by the Executive of an amount
advanced by the Company pursuant hereto, a determination is made that the
Executive shall not be entitled to any refund with respect to such claim and the

                                      -27-
<PAGE>
 
Company does not notify the Executive in writing of its intent to contest such
denial of refund prior to the expiration of 30 days after such determination,
then such advance shall be forgiven and shall not be required to be repaid and
the amount of such advance shall offset, to the extent thereof, the amount of
Gross-Up Payment required to be paid.

          5.   Other Provisions.
               ---------------- 

          5.1  Notices.  Any notice or other communication required or permitted
               -------                                                
hereunder shall be in writing and shall be delivered personally, telegraphed,
telexed, sent by facsimile transmission or sent by certified, registered or
express mail, postage prepaid. Any such notice shall be deemed given when so
delivered personally, telegraphed, telexed or sent by facsimile transmission or,
if mailed, on the date of actual receipt thereof, as follows:

          (i)  If to the Company or Rouse, to:

                    The Rouse Company
                    10275 Little Patuxent Parkway
                    Columbia, Maryland  21044
                    Attn: General Counsel

          (ii) If to the Executive, to:

                    John L. Goolsby
                    9029 Greensboro Lane
                    Las Vegas, Nevada  89134

               Any party may change its address for notice hereunder by notice
to the other party hereto.

                                      -28-
<PAGE>
 
               5.2  Entire Agreement.  This Agreement, including the attached
                    ----------------                                         
Schedules which are a part hereof for all purposes, contains the entire
agreement and understanding between the parties with respect to the subject
matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements, written or oral, with respect
thereto.

               5.3  Governing Law.  This Agreement shall be governed and
                    -------------                                       
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Nevada.

               5.4  Assignment.  The obligations of the Executive hereunder are
                    ----------                                                 
personal and may not be assigned or delegated by him or transferred in any
manner whatsoever, nor are such obligations subject to involuntary alienation,
assignment or transfer.  The Company shall have the right to assign this
Agreement and to delegate all rights, duties and obligations hereunder, either
in whole or in part, to any parent, affiliate, successor or subsidiary
organization or company of the Company, so long as the obligations of the
Company under this Agreement remain the obligations of the Company and of Rouse,
                                                                                
provided that the Company will require any successor (whether direct or
- --------                                                               
indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all or
substantially all of the business and/or assets of the Company, by agreement in
form and substance reasonably acceptable 

                                      -29-
<PAGE>
 
to the Executive, to assume expressly and agree to perform this Agreement in the
same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform
it if no such succession had taken place.

               5.5  Termination.  Except as otherwise provided expressly herein,
                    -----------                                                 
this Agreement shall terminate upon end of the Restricted Period.

               6.  Resolution of Disputes.
                   ---------------------- 

               6.1  Negotiation.  The parties shall attempt in good faith to 
                    -----------                               
resolve any dispute arising out of or relating to this Agreement promptly by
negotiations between the Executive and an executive officer of the Company and
Rouse who has authority to settle the controversy. Any party may give the other
party written notice of any dispute not resolved in the normal course of
business. Within 10 days after the effective date of such notice, the Executive
and an executive officer of the Company and Rouse shall meet at a mutually
acceptable time and place within the Las Vegas, Nevada metropolitan area, and
thereafter as often as they reasonably deem necessary, to exchange relevant
information and to attempt to resolve the dispute. If the matter has not been
resolved within 30 days of the disputing party's notice, or if the parties fail
to meet within 10 days, either 

                                      -30-
<PAGE>
 
party may initiate arbitration of the controversy or claim as provided
hereinafter. If a negotiator intends to be accompanied at a meeting by an
attorney, the other negotiator shall be given at least three business days'
notice of such intention and may also be accompanied by an attorney. All
negotiations pursuant to this Section 6.1 shall be treated as compromise and
settlement negotiations for the purposes of the federal and state rules of
evidence and procedure.

          6.2  Arbitration.  Any dispute arising out of or relating to this
               -----------                                                 
Agreement or the breach, termination or validity thereof, which has not been
resolved by non-binding means as provided in Section 6.1 within 60 days of the
initiation of such procedure, shall be finally settled by arbitration conducted
expeditiously in accordance with the Center for Public Resources, Inc. ("CPR")
Rules for Non-Administered Arbitration of Business Disputes by three independent
and impartial arbitrators, of whom each party shall appoint one, provided that
if one party has requested the other to participate in a non-binding procedure
and the other has failed to participate, the requesting party may initiate
arbitration before the expiration of such period.  Any such party shall be
appointed from the CPR Panels of Neutrals. The arbitration shall be governed by
the United States 

                                      -31-
<PAGE>
 
Arbitration Act and any judgment upon the award decided upon the arbitrators may
be entered by any court having jurisdiction thereof. The arbitrators are not
empowered to award damages in excess of compensatory damages and each party
hereby irrevocably waives any damages in excess of compensatory damages. Each
party hereby acknowledges that compensatory damages include (without limitation)
any benefit or right of indemnification given by another party to the other
under this Agreement.

          6.3  Expenses.  The Company shall promptly pay or reimburse the
               --------                                                  
Executive for all costs and expenses, including, without limitation, court costs
and attorneys' fees, incurred by the Executive as a result of any claim, action
or proceeding (including, without limitation a claim action or proceeding by the
Executive against the Company or Rouse) arising out of, or challenging the
validity or enforceability of, this Agreement or any provision hereof.

     7.  Guaranty.  In addition to Rouse's own obligations under this Agreement,
         --------                                                               
Rouse undertakes that on default of the Company it will be bound by and will do
and perform all acts and things referred to or provided to be done by the
Company under this Agreement.  Except as may be expressly set forth herein, no
provision of this Agreement is intended to limit the Executive's 

                                      -32-
<PAGE>
 
authority as Chief Executive Officer of the Company and no such action shall
have the effect of waiving or otherwise affecting the validity or quantity of
Rouse's guaranty hereunder.

     8.  Successors.  This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the
         ----------                                                        
benefit of the Executive and his heirs, executors, administrators and legal
representatives.  This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit
of the Company and its successors and assigns.

     9.  No Mitigation or Set-Off.  The provisions of this Agreement are not
         ------------------------                                           
intended to, nor shall they be construed to, require that the Executive mitigate
the amount of any payment provided for in this Agreement by seeking or accepting
other employment, nor shall the amount of any payment provided for in this
Agreement be reduced by any compensation earned by the Executive as a result of
his employment by another employer or otherwise.  The Company's or Rouse's
obligations to make the payments to the Executive required under this Agreement
and otherwise to perform its obligations hereunder shall not be affected by any
set off, counterclaim, recoupment, defense or other claim, right or action that
the Company or Rouse may have against the Executive.

                                      -33-
<PAGE>
 
     10.  This Agreement may be amended or modified by an agreement in writing
executed by all of the parties hereto.

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement effective
for all purposes as of the date first above written.

WITNESS/ATTEST:                     TRC ACQUISITION COMPANY I


                                    By:                            
- -------------------------              ---------------------------
                                              President


                                    THE ROUSE COMPANY



                                    By:                            
- -------------------------              ---------------------------
                                              President


- -------------------------           ------------------------------
                                              John L. Goolsby

                                      -34-
<PAGE>
 
                                  SCHEDULE 1

                                John L. Goolsby

                    Executive's Participation as a Director
                           in Commercial Corporation

     Bank of America

     Nevada Power Company

     America West Airlines, Inc.
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT A
                                   ---------



                                              Effective Date


John L. Goolsby
- -----------------------
- -----------------------
- -----------------------

Dear                  :
     -----------------

          On February 22, 1996, the Board of Directors of the Company granted
you a stock bonus under the 1994 Stock Incentive Plan for 40,000 shares of the
Company's Common Stock (the "Bonus Shares").  This stock bonus is subject to the
following restrictions:

          1. If your employment with the Company terminates for any reason other
             than death, total disability, discharge without good cause or
             retirement from the Company after attaining age 62 or the
             termination of employment by you for Good Reason (as defined in
             your Operating Agreement), the Bonus Shares that are still subject
             to the restrictions will be forfeited to the Company without
             payment therefor.

          2. You may not sell, assign, transfer, pledge, hypothecate, encumber
             or otherwise dispose of the Bonus Shares except to the extent that
             the restrictions have lapsed.

          The restrictions on the Bonus Shares will lapse as to thirty percent
(30%) of the shares on January 1, 1997, an additional thirty percent (30%) of
the shares on January 1, 1998 and the remaining forty percent (40%) of the
shares on January 1, 1999.  Attachment 1, attached hereto and incorporated by
reference herein.

          You may have The Rouse Company retain or accept a sufficient number of
shares to satisfy the Company's tax withholding obligations or your tax
liabilities in connection with the receipt of the Bonus Shares, the lapse of
restrictions with respect to the Bonus Shares, the sale of the Bonus Stock or
the receipt or forgiveness of a loan or loans relating to the Bonus Shares.

          Three certificates for shares of the The Rouse Company's Common Stock
in the respective amounts of 12,000 shares, 12,000 shares and 16,000 shares,
have been delivered to you.  The legend on the reverse side of each certificate
describes the restrictions to which the stock represented by such certificate is
subject.
<PAGE>
 
Page 2
Effective Date
John L. Goolsby

          Enclosed is a Loan Agreement between the Company and you. Section 6 of
the Agreement defines "total disability" and "discharge without good cause."
Section 2 of the Option Agreement defined "Good Reason". In the event of your
death, total disability, discharge without good cause or retirement from the
Company after attaining age 62 or your termination of employment for Good Reason
(as defined in your Option Agreement), all restrictions on your Bonus Shares
will immediately terminate, and you will own those shares outright.

          To acknowledge your agreement to the terms and restrictions to which
the Bonus Shares are subject, please sign and date the original of this letter.
The copy is for your files. You should also sign and date the enclosed Loan
Agreement and Promissory Note. When you actually receive any portion of the
proceeds of the loan, you also will need to sign a Receipt, a copy of which is
enclosed. The signed documents, including the original of this letter, should be
returned to Dave Schwiesow.

          If you have any questions concerning your stock bonus, please feel
free to contact me.

                                    Sincerely yours,

                                    THE ROUSE COMPANY


                                    By
                                      --------------------------
                                         Anthony W. Deering
                                         President and Chief
                                         Executive Officer
Enclosures

The undersigned agrees to the
above-described terms and
restrictions to which the
Bonus Shares are subject.

Signature:
          ------------------------
Date:
     -----------------------------

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
                       ATTACHMENT 1 to Letter Agreement
                             Regarding Stock Grant


     Any capitalized term used herein which is not otherwise defined shall have
the meaning attributed to it in the letter agreement (the "Letter Agreement") to
which this is attached or the Executive's Employment Agreement (the "Employment
Agreement").

     The Letter Agreement provides that certain restrictions (the
"Restrictions") on the Bonus Shares shall lapse if the Chief Executive Officer
of Rouse (the "Rouse CEO") shall determine that certain objectives for "income
from operations" for The Howard Hughes Corporation (the "Income Objectives")
have been achieved. The purpose of this Attachment is to set forth the procedure
for (i) setting the Income Objectives for each year and (ii) determining whether
the Income Objectives have been obtained. The parties further recognize that the
Executive will be establishing annual objectives (the "Bonus Objectives") to be
used in connection with the Executive's participation in The Rouse Company
incentive compensation program.  The parties also wish to provide for the
integration of the processes by which the Bonus Objectives and the Income
Objectives are established. Therefore, the Income Objectives and Bonus
Objectives described herein must also be the same as the annual objectives for
The Howard Hughes Corporation integrated into The Rouse Company's corporate
objectives for its annual incentive compensation program.

     On or prior to December 15, 1996 and December 15, 1997 the Executive shall
submit a proposed business plan to the Rouse CEO for the ensuing calendar year.
The proposed Business Plan shall be in form similar to the approved 1996
business plan which is attached hereto as Exhibit 1.  The proposed business plan
shall be subject to review and approval by the Rouse CEO.  The Executive and the
Rouse CEO shall discuss in good faith any revisions to the proposed plan
required by the CEO, but notwithstanding such discussions, the business plan
shall be subject to the approval of the Rouse CEO in the exercise of his
discretion.  The business plan shall constitute an essential portion of the
Executive's Bonus Objectives, it being acknowledged that for 1997 and 1998, the
Executive may include in his Bonus Objectives, other performance objectives, in
addition to the business plan, as he and the Rouse CEO shall agree.

     In formulating the business plan the Executive and the Rouse CEO shall
agree on a budgeted amount of "income from operations" to be generated by The
Howard Hughes Corporation, such amount to 
<PAGE>
 
be calculated in the manner as set forth in Exhibit 2 entitled "The Howard
Hughes Corporation" - Projected Summary of Operations 1996-1998 (the "Current
Projections") attached hereto.

     The Income Objectives for 1996 shall be $46,896,000 as shown on the Current
Projections, as may be adjusted for changes in accounting policies and
practices, as described below.  The Income Objectives for 1997 and 1998 shall be
presumed to be the amounts shown on the Current Projections for those years
subject to submission and review of the annual business plan as set forth above.
In submitting the proposed business plan for 1997 and 1998 the Executive may
suggest revisions to the Income Objectives.  The final determination of the
Income Objectives shall be subject to the approval of the Rouse CEO, but in no
event shall the Rouse CEO increase the Income Objectives for 1997 or 1998 above
the amounts set forth in the Current Projections. Moreover, the Income
Objectives for 1996, 1997 and 1998 shall be adjusted to reflect any changes in
accounting policies and practices implemented by The Howard Hughes Corporation
after the Merger.

     Within ten (10) days after the year end financial results of the Company
are made available to the Rouse CEO, he shall determine whether, in his good
faith judgment, the Company's income from operations has met or exceeded, the
Income Objectives.  If the Income Objectives have been met or exceeded, then the
Restrictions as to the applicable percentage of Bonus Stock shall be removed.
If the income from operations is less than the Income Objectives, then the Rouse
CEO may determine that the Restrictions as to the full percentage, or some
lesser percentage of the Bonus Stock shall be removed.  In making such
determination, the Rouse CEO shall take into consideration, as he deems
appropriate, factors which may have affected the Company's ability to meet the
Income Objectives, including unusual market conditions, Rouse's failure to
approve (or take other appropriate action regarding) any material recommendation
by the Executive regarding the Company or to the extent Rouse rather than the
Executive assumes responsibility for providing equity requirements or financing,
the failure of Rouse to provide such equity requirements or financing.

     Notwithstanding the foregoing, (i) if the Income Objectives for either 1996
or 1997 are not met, but as of the end of 1997, the aggregate net income from
operations for 1996 and 1997 equals 
<PAGE>
 
or exceeds the aggregate Income Objectives for 1996 and 1997 then the
Restrictions on the Bonus Stock eligible for removal in 1996 and 1997 shall be
removed and (ii) if the aggregate income from operations for 1996, 1997 and 1998
equals or exceeds the aggregate Income Objectives for 1996, 1997 and 1998 then
the Restrictions as to all of the Bonus Stock shall be removed, notwithstanding
that for any of the individual years 1996, 1997 and 1998 the income from
operations did not meet or exceed the Income Objectives. The income from
operations shall be deemed to have met the Income Objectives and the
Restrictions shall automatically be removed as of January 31 of each applicable
year unless prior thereto the Rouse CEO shall have notified the Executive in
writing of his determination that the Restrictions are not to be fully removed.
The Rouse CEO agrees to discuss with the Executive, at his request, any
determination that the Restrictions are not to be fully removed.

          With regard to any shares of Bonus Stock as to which the Restrictions
have not been removed by February 1, 1999 such shares shall be forfeited to The
Rouse Company without payment therefor and any rights of the Executive therein
shall be terminated.

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
                           EXHIBIT 1 to ATTACHMENT 1
                           -------------------------

                              1996 Business Plan
                              ------------------

The following are key objectives for 1996:

     1. Produce revenues consistent with the Projected Summary of Operations for
        1996.

     2. Complete or commence construction of the following
        commercial/residential projects in accordance with approved budgets.

        Hughes Center
        -------------
        Restaurant                          23,500 square feet
        Office                              85,000 square feet

        Summerlin Commercial
        --------------------
        Office/flex                         276,000 square feet

        Hughes Airport Center
        ---------------------
        Office/industrial/flex              248,000 square feet

        Hughes Cheyenne Center
        ----------------------
        Industrial/flex                     210,000 square feet

     3. Continue or commence construction of required infrastructure to support
        land sales on Summerlin Villages 3, 11/12 and 14A.

     4. Obtain required permanent project financing for 1996 as follows

          (with Rouse support where required):

        Hughes Center                       $39,500,000
        Summerlin Commercial                 20,750,000
        Hughes Airport                       25,200,000

     5. Complete next increment of Special Improvement District Financing of
        approximately $40,000,000 for Summerlin.

     6. Complete the lease up of new commercial buildings consistent with
        approved pro forma.

     7. Maintain occupancy in existing commercial buildings within 5% of
        December 1995 levels.
<PAGE>
 
                           EXHIBIT 2 TO ATTACHMENT 1

                         The Howard Hughes Corporation
                        Projected Summary of Operations
                                  1996 - 1998
                                (in thousands)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                            1996       1997       1998
<S>                                       <C>        <C>        <C>
 
Operating Revenues:
 Income producing properties                73,379     88,285    100,097
 Development properties                    116,472    146,428    107,201
 Investment properties                       8,485     43,871     17,465
   Subtotal                                198,336    278,584    224,763
 
Cost of Revenues:
 Income producing properties               (27,959)   (32,840)   (36,288)
 Development properties                    (81,979)   (97,508)   (74,132)
 Investment properties                      (1,918)    (5,891)    (2,669)
   Subtotal                               (111,856)  (136,239)  (113,089)
 
Gross Project From Operations               86,480    142,345    111,674
 
Other Income (Expense):
 General and administrative                (10,659)   (10,290)   (10,555)
 Interest income                             8,517      4,492      5,642
 Interest expense (net of capitalized)     (18,990)   (28,789)   (24,260)
 Depreciation and amortization             (20,517)   (21,775)   (24,349)
 Abandoned Tenant Costs
 Other - net                                 2,065      2,768      2,811
   Subtotal                                (39,584)   (53,594)   (50,711)
 
Income from Operations                      46,896     88,751     60,963
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT B
                                   ---------

                                LOAN AGREEMENT

          THIS AGREEMENT is made as of the ___ day of __________, 1996,
("Agreement"), by and between JOHN L. GOOLSBY (the "Borrower") and THE ROUSE
COMPANY, a Maryland corporation (the "Company").

          WHEREAS, the Borrower, a senior officer of The Howard Hughes
Corporation, a subsidiary of the Company, intends to continue to serve the
Company for the foreseeable future, subject to the direction of the Board of
Directors of the Company; the Borrower wishes to borrow money from the Company
for purposes which include the satisfaction of certain obligations that he has
incurred or will incur with respect to the receipt of shares of Common Stock of
the Company pursuant to the Company's 1994 Stock Incentive Plan (the "Shares"),
including, but not limited to, the payment of federal and state income taxes;
the Company, in recognition of the services the Borrower has performed for The
Howard Hughes Corporation, and in contemplation of future services that the
Borrower will perform for The Howard Hughes Corporation, has determined to
extend credit to the Borrower on the terms set forth herein, it being the
considered view of the Board of Directors of the Company that the best interests
of the Company and its stockholders will be served and advanced through the
continued services of Borrower to the Company.

       NOW THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration as reflected in this
Agreement, the Company and the Borrower agree as follows:
<PAGE>
 
          1.   The Company agrees to lend to Borrower, and Borrower agrees to
borrow from the Company from time to time, [the principal sum of one-half ( 1/2)
market value (the "Loan Amount") of the shares on the effective date of the
Merger (the "Effective Date"], which loan shall be evidenced by the Promissory
Note of Borrower (attached as Exhibit A) Borrower may borrow all or any portion
of the principal sum of the loan upon at least one day's written notice to the
Company (attached as Exhibit B), except that Borrower must borrow at least [one-
third of loan] on or before each of [January 31, 1997], [January 31, 1998] and
[January 31, 1999]. The loan shall be the unsecured obligation of Borrower,
shall bear interest as stated in the Promissory Note, payable on January 31 of
each year, at the rate of 5% per annum on the principal balance outstanding from
time to time, shall mature in its entirety on [January 31, 1999], and shall be
repayable (unless forgiven as hereinafter set forth) as to principal in three
equal installments of [one-third of Loan Amount] payable on [January 31] in each
of the years 1997 through 1999. The Company agrees that Borrower is entitled to
the entire loan proceeds and is entitled to have the loan forgiven
notwithstanding whether the Borrower remains an employee of the Company at the
time the restrictions lapse.

          2.   The Company represents and warrants to Borrower that this
Agreement has been duly authorized by its Board of Directors and constitutes the
legal, valid and enforceable obligation of the Company in consideration of the
obligations of 

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
Borrower under this Agreement, the Promissory Note and the contemplated services
of Borrower. The Company understands that the Promissory Note constitutes the
unsecured obligation of Borrower.

          3.   Borrower represents and warrants to the Company that he intends
to apply the proceeds of the loan from the Company for purposes that include the
payment of obligations, and interest thereon, incurred or to be incurred by him
in connection with the grant of the Shares, including the payment of federal and
state income taxes.

          4.   On January 31 in each of the years 1997 through 1999, Borrower's
obligation evidenced by the Promissory Note shall be extinguished and forgiven
by the Company as to [one-third (1/3) of the loan amount], without any payment
by Borrower, provided that Borrower has not prior to any such dates been
discharged as an employee of the Company or any subsidiary thereof for cause.
Accordingly, if the Borrower has not previously been discharged for cause as of
January 31, 1999, his obligation to the Company as evidenced by the Promissory
Note shall be extinguished and forgiven totally as to principal without any
payment by him except as to interest on the principal balance outstanding from
time to time. In no event shall termination of Borrower's employment at any time
reestablish personal responsibility of Borrower for amounts of principal
indebtedness extinguished and forgiven prior to such termination.

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
          5.   Provided that an uncured Event of Default has not theretofore
occurred, in the event of the Borrower's death, total disability, discharge
without good cause, retirement from the Company and all subsidiaries thereof
after attaining age 62, or termination of employment for Good Reason (as defined
in the Option Agreement) at any time prior to January 31, 1999, while he is
employed by the Company or any subsidiary thereof, the entire remaining balance
of principal indebtedness evidenced by the Promissory Note shall be extinguished
and forgiven without any payment on the part of the Borrower except as to
accrued interest to the date of the event.

          6.   When used in Sections 5 and 7, (a) "total disability" shall mean
a disability on the part of the Borrower that has continued for a period of more
than 180 days and has prevented him from performing in a usual and proper manner
the functions of his position, and (b) "discharge without good cause" shall mean
(i) any discharge other than discharge due solely to an act or acts of gross or
willful negligence or of intentional wrongdoing or misconduct, any of which has
or have a material adverse effect on Borrower's ability to perform the duties of
his position or on the good standing, financial condition or profitability of
the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation, and shall be deemed to include any
voluntary termination of employment by the Borrower after January 31, 1999; or
(ii) any change of control of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation (as
hereinafter defined); for purposes hereof, a "change of 

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
control" shall mean (1) any merger by the Company or The Howard Hughes
Corporation with or into another corporation or corporations; (2) any
acquisition (by purchase, lease or otherwise) of all or substantially all of the
assets of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation by any person,
corporation or other entity or group thereof acting jointly; (3) the acquisition
of beneficial ownership, directly or indirectly, of voting securities of the
Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation (as defined below) and rights to
acquire voting securities of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation (also
as defined below) by any person, corporation or other entity or group thereof
acting jointly, in such amount or amounts as would permit such person,
corporation or other entity or group thereof acting jointly to elect a majority
of the members of the Board of Directors of the Company or The Howard Hughes
Corporation, as then constituted; or (4) the acquisition of beneficial
ownership, directly or indirectly, of voting securities and rights to acquire
voting securities having voting power equal to 20% or more of the combined
voting power of the Company's or The Howard Hughes Corporation's then
outstanding voting securities by any person, corporation or other entity or
group thereof acting jointly. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, any
transaction that involves a mere change in identity, form or place of
organization within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1)(F) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended, or a transaction of similar effect, shall not
constitute a "change of control."

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
          For purposes of this Agreement, the term "voting securities" means
Common Stock of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation or any securities
having presently exercisable voting rights that the Company or The Howard Hughes
Corporation may issue in the future. "Rights to acquire voting securities"
include, but are not limited to, securities that are convertible into voting
securities (as defined above) and rights, options, warrants and other agreements
or arrangements to acquire such voting securities. A person's ownership position
shall be computed on the basis that its rights to acquire voting securities are
immediately exercisable and exercised.

          7.   Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default, as hereinafter
defined, the Company may declare all unpaid principal and interest on the
Promissory Note to be due and payable within ninety (90) days. For the purposes
of this Agreement and the Promissory Note, "Event of Default" shall mean (i)
default in the payment when due of any interest on the Promissory Note, which
default shall have continued for a period of thirty (30) days after notice to
the Borrower or (ii) termination before January 31, 1999 of the Borrower's
employment with the Company or any subsidiary other than as a result of death,
total disability, discharge without good cause, retirement from the Company or
any subsidiary after attaining age 62, or the Borrower's termination of
employment for Good Reason (as defined in the Borrower's Option Agreement).

                                      -6-
<PAGE>
 
          8.   Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default, the Borrower shall be
entitled to no further forgiveness of indebtedness under Sections 4 or 5.

          9.   This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of
Maryland and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company and
its successors and assigns and the Borrower and his heirs, personal
representatives and assigns.

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company and Borrower have
executed this Agreement as of the _______ day of June, 1996.

WITNESS:


- --------------------------          --------------------------
                                    JOHN L. GOOLSBY



ATTEST:                             THE ROUSE COMPANY


- --------------------------          --------------------------
                                    Anthony W. Deering
                                    President and Chief
                                    Executive Officer

                                      -7-
<PAGE>
 
                          EXHIBIT A TO LOAN AGREEMENT
                          ---------------------------

                                PROMISSORY NOTE


                                                              Columbia, Maryland
                                                              ____________, 1996


          FOR VALUE RECEIVED the undersigned, (the "Maker"), promises to pay to
the order of THE ROUSE COMPANY (the "Company") the sum of __________ Dollars, or
such lesser amount as shall be outstanding from time to time, at the offices of
the Company in Columbia, Maryland, with interest on the balance outstanding from
time to time at the rate of 5% per annum.  This Promissory Note has been issued
pursuant to a Loan Agreement, dated [Effective Date], by and between the Maker
and the Company to which reference is made for further description of the rights
and obligations specified herein and of certain other rights and obligations of
the Maker and the Company that affect the terms and provisions of this
Promissory Note.

          Interest on the balance outstanding from time to time shall be paid on
January 31, 1997, and thereafter on January 31 in each succeeding year until the
principal and interest on this Promissory Note are paid in full.

          Payments of principal shall be made in annual installments of
_________ Dollars ($__________) on January 31 in each of the years 1997 through
1999, inclusive, unless repaid prior thereto by the Maker or extinguished and
forgiven pursuant to the terms of the Loan Agreement. Prepayments of principal
may 

                                      -8-
<PAGE>
 
be made in the sole discretion of the Maker, in whole or in part, at any time or
from time to time, without penalty.

          The obligation represented by this Promissory Note shall constitute
the unsecured general obligation of the Maker. Upon the occurrence of any Event
of Default, as defined in the Loan Agreement, the Company may declare all unpaid
principal and interest on this Promissory Note to be due and payable within
ninety (90) days thereafter.  To the extent permitted by law, the Maker waives
all exemptions, diligence in collection, demand, presentment for payment,
protest and notice of protest of nonpayment.  The Company agrees to make an
appropriate notation on this Promissory Note to reflect all payments of
principal or the extinguishment and forgiveness of principal pursuant to the
terms of the Loan Agreement, and upon the Maker's request, the Company will
submit this Promissory Note to the Maker for a review of such notation.

          This Promissory Note shall be governed by the laws of the State of
Maryland and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, its
successors and assigns and to the Maker and the Maker's heirs, personal
representatives and assigns.



                                                            (SEAL)
                                    ------------------------
                                    John L. Goolsby

                                      -9-
<PAGE>
 
                          EXHIBIT B TO LOAN AGREEMENT
                          ---------------------------

                              NOTICE OF BORROWING


          Pursuant to Section 1 of the Loan Agreement, made as of [Effective
Date] by the undersigned and The Rouse Company, this is to request
$______________, representing a loan from The Rouse Company to the undersigned
under the Loan Agreement.


Dated: 
      -------------------           ------------------------------
                                    John L. Goolsby
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT C
                                   ---------



                                    Effective Date


John L. Goolsby
- ---------------------
- ---------------------
- ---------------------

Dear                 :
     ----------------

          The Personnel Committee of the Board of Directors of The Rouse Company
(the "Company") has granted you an incentive stock option to purchase _________
shares of the Common Stock of the Company and a nonqualified stock option to
purchase _________ shares of the Common Stock of the Company.  As determined in
accordance with Article I(b)(4) of The Rouse Company 1994 Stock Incentive Plan,
the exercise price for both options is [price as of Effective Date] per share.

          To accept the options, sign the originals of the enclosed Incentive
Stock Option Agreement and Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement and the duplicate
of this letter and return them to David Schwiesow.  Please retain the copies of
the Agreements and the original of this letter for your records.

          If you have any questions concerning your option grants, feel free to
give me a call.

                                    Sincerely,

                                    THE ROUSE COMPANY


                                    By:___________________________
                                         Anthony W. Deering
                                         President and
                                         Chief Executive Officer


          I accept the stock options to purchase shares of the Company's Common
Stock upon the terms and conditions contained in the Incentive Stock Option
Agreement and the Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement, each dated
_________________________ between the Company and me.

                              Signature:______________________
<PAGE>
 
                                                                     EXHIBIT C-1
                                                                     -----------

                               THE ROUSE COMPANY

                           1994 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

                        INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
                        --------------------------------
                                        

          THIS INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT, effective the [Effective Date]
by and between THE ROUSE COMPANY 1994 Stock Incentive Plan, a Maryland
corporation (the "Company"), and JOHN L. GOOLSBY (the "Employee").

                                  BACKGROUND
                                  ----------

          By action of its Board of Directors and Stockholders, the Company has
adopted The Rouse Company 1994 Stock Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), under which
the Company may grant stock options and other stock awards to employees of the
Company and its subsidiaries. The Plan is administered by a Committee of the
Board of Directors that has authority (i) to grant stock options to officers and
other key employees of the Company and its subsidiaries and, subject to the
provisions of the Plan, to determine the employees to whom and the time or times
at which options will be granted, the number of shares to be covered by each
option, the period of time and requisite conditions for exercising an option and
the terms and provisions of the option agreements and (ii) to determine the fair
market value, from time to time, of a share of Common Stock of the Company.

                                  THE OPTION
                                  ----------

          The Committee has determined to grant a stock option to Employee, and
Employee, by his execution of this Agreement, agrees to accept the stock option,
subject to the provisions of the Plan and the following terms and conditions:

          SECTION 1. Grant of Option.
                     ----------------

          a.   Number of Shares.  The Company grants to Employee the right and
               ----------------                                               
option to purchase, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and
the Plan, a total of [_________] shares of Common Stock of the Company, par
value one cent ($.0l) per share ("Common Stock"), which shares are designated as
shares granted under an incentive stock option (as that term is described in
Section i(d) below).

          b.   Option Price. The purchase price of all such shares of Common
Stock shall be $______________ per share, which price is equal to the last sale
price for Common Stock on the Effective Date.

          c.   "Option" Defined.  The option granted hereby and all of
               ----------------                                       
Employee's rights under this Agreement and the Plan are referred to collectively
as the "Option."
<PAGE>
 
          d.   Tax Status of Option.  The Option is designated as constituting
               --------------------                                           
an "incentive stock option" under Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended.

          SECTION 2. Vesting of Option.  The Company and the Employee
                     -----------------                               
acknowledge that simultaneously herewith the Employee and the Company are
entering into a letter agreement (the "Stock Grant Agreement") pursuant to which
the Employee is receiving a grant of 40,000 shares (the "Bonus Stock") of the
Common Stock of the Company. Pursuant to the Stock Grant Agreement certain
restrictions apply to Employee's ownership of the Bonus Stock which restrictions
(the "Restrictions") may be removed as to percentages of the Bonus Stock as of
January 31, 1997, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1999. It is intended that the
Option granted herein shall vest at the same time and in the same percentages as
the Restrictions on the Bonus Stock are removed. Accordingly, the Option shall
vest as to a percentage of the total shares of the Option on each of January 31,
1997, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1999, which percentage on each such date
shall equal the percentage of the total shares of Bonus Stock on which the
Restrictions are removed as of each such date.

          In addition, the Option immediately vests as to all of the shares of
Common Stock in the event of Employee's death, total disability (as defined in
Section 5(d) below), retirement from the Company after attaining age 62,
discharge without good cause (as defined in Section 3 below), or in the event of
the Employee's termination of employment for Good Reason.

          As used in this paragraph, the term "Good Reason" shall mean the
occurrence of any of the following events which is not corrected by the Company
within 15 days after Employee has provided the Company with written notice of
such event: (i) assignment to the Employee of any duties materially inconsistent
with the Employee's position, authority, duties or responsibilities with the
Company as established pursuant to the Employment Agreement between the Employee
and the Company as then in effect, (ii) reduction of Employee's annual base
salary as established pursuant to the Employment Agreement between Employee and
the Company as then in effect, (iii) relocation of the Company's principal
executive offices or Employee's principal place of performance of his duties and
responsibility of employment with the Company to a location outside the Greater
Las Vegas area, (iv) a material breach by the Company or Rouse of any of its
obligations to Employee pursuant to the Employment Agreement between Employee
and the Company as then in effect, (v) any amendment to the articles or bylaws
by the Company or Rouse that adversely affects the Employee's right to
indemnification by the Company or Rouse, except as may be required by applicable
federal or state law, and (vi) the failure of the Company or Rouse to have the
obligations under this Agreement assumed by any assignee under Section 5.4 of
the Employment Agreement.

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
          SECTION 3.  "Discharge Without Good Cause" and "Change of Control"
                      ------------------------------------------------------
Defined.
- --------

          a.   "Discharge Without Good Cause."  For purposes of this Agreement,
               -----------------------------                                   
"discharge without good cause" shall mean (i) any discharge other than discharge
due solely to an act or acts of gross or willful negligence or of intentional
wrongdoing or misconduct, which has or have a material adverse effect on
Employee's ability to perform the duties of his position or on the good
standing, financial condition or profitability of The Howard Hughes Corporation;
or (ii) any change of control of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation(as
hereinafter defined).

          b.   "Change of Control."  For purposes of this Agreement, a "change
               ------------------                                             
of control" shall mean (1) any merger by the Company or The Howard Hughes
Corporation with or into another corporation or corporations; (2) any
acquisition (by purchase, lease or otherwise) of all or substantially all of the
assets of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation by any person,
corporation or other entity or group thereof acting jointly; (3) the acquisition
of beneficial ownership, directly or indirectly, of voting securities of the
Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation (defined as Common Stock of the Company
or The Howard Hughes Corporation or any securities having voting rights that the
Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation may issue in the future) and rights to
acquire voting securities of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation
(defined as including, without limitation, securities that are convertible into
voting securities of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation (as defined
above) and rights, options, warrants and other agreements or arrangements to
acquire such voting securities) by any person, corporation or other entity or
group thereof acting jointly, in such amount or amounts as would permit such
person, corporation or other entity or group thereof acting jointly to elect a
majority of the members of the Board of Directors of the Company or The Howard
Hughes Corporation, as then constituted; or (4) the acquisition of beneficial
ownership, directly or indirectly, of voting securities and rights to acquire
voting securities having voting power equal to 20% or more of the combined
voting power of the Company's or The Howard Hughes Corporation's then
outstanding voting securities by any person, corporation or other entity or
group thereof acting jointly. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, any
transaction that involves a mere change in identity, form or place of
organization within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1)(F) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended, or a transaction of similar effect, shall not
constitute a "change of control."

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
          SECTION 4. Termination of Option.
                     ----------------------

          a.   Termination for Cause.  If Employee's employment is terminated by
               ---------------------                                            
the Company for cause, all unexercised rights under the option shall expire on
the date of such termination.

          b.   Other Termination.  If, before the Option vests as provided in
               -----------------                                             
Section 2 above, Employee's employment with the Company or any subsidiary
terminates for any reason other than death, total disability (as defined in
Section 5 (d) below) , retirement from the Company or any subsidiary after
attaining age 62, discharge without good cause (as defined in Section 3 above),
or the Employee's termination of employment for Good Reason (as defined in
Section 2 above) the option shall terminate on the date of such termination, and
Employee shall have no rights under the Option or this Agreement.

          SECTION 5.  Exercise of Option.
                      ------------------ 

          a.   Exercise Period - General.  Subject to the provisions of Sections
               -------------------------                                        
5 (b) and 5 (c) below, Employee may exercise the Option to purchase the vested
shares at any time (whether while serving as an employee of the Company or any
subsidiary or after ceasing to be an employee of the Company or any subsidiary),
and from time to time (but not as to less than 10 shares at any one time), on
and after the date such shares have vested as provided in Section 2 above
through and including (ten (10) years) (the "Expiration Date"), notwithstanding
that Employee may forfeit the favorable tax treatment afforded the option if
Employee exercises the option later than three (3) months after such
termination.

          b.   Exercise Period - Certain Terminations of Employment.  Employee
               ----------------------------------------------------           
may exercise the Option to purchase the vested shares for only one year
following a voluntary termination of employment other than upon retirement from
the Company after attaining age 62, a termination of employment due to a
discharge without good cause (as defined in Section 3 above) or the Employee's
termination of employment for Good Reason (as defined in Section 2 above).

          c.   Exercise Period - Death or Total Disability.  If Employee dies or
               -------------------------------------------                      
becomes totally disabled (as defined in Section 5(d) below) either while serving
as an employee of the Company or any subsidiary or after ceasing to be an
employee of the Company or any subsidiary, the Option may be exercised with
respect to the vested shares by Employee or by the executor, administrator or
personal representative of Employee's estate or other person entitled by law to
Employee's rights under the Option at any time through and including the
Expiration Date.

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
          d.   "Total Disability" Defined.  "Total disability" shall mean a
                -------------------------                                  
disability that has continued for a period of more than 180 days and has
prevented Employee from performing in a usual and proper manner the functions of
his position.

          e.   Exercise before the Expiration Date. Notwithstanding any other
               -----------------------------------                           
provision of this Agreement, in no event may the Option or any portion of the
option be exercised after [ten (10) years after Effective Date].

          SECTION 6.  Manner of Exercise; Notices.  The Option shall be
                      ---------------------------                      
exercised by sending to the Secretary of the Company a written notice of
Employee's intention to purchase such shares, specifying the number of shares
(but not less than 10 shares at any one time) and the date that the purchase is
to occur. Payment of the option price may be made (i) in U.S. dollars in cash or
by wire transfer, check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company, (ii)
through the delivery of Common Stock or other securities issued by the Company
that have a fair market value equal to the option price, or (iii) by a
combination of the foregoing. Full payment must be made for all shares to be
purchased before the shares will be released to Employee. The exercise notice
shall be addressed to the Secretary of the Company at The Rouse Company
Building, 10275 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, Maryland 21044, or at such
other address as the Company designates in writing to Employee. Any notice to
Employee shall be sent to his address as shown in the records of the Company or
at such other address as Employee designates in writing to the Company. Any such
notice shall be deemed to have been duly given if it is personally delivered or
registered and deposited, postage and registry fee prepaid, in a United States
Post Office. For purposes of this Section 6, the "fair market value" of any
Company securities that are delivered in payment of the option price shall be
equal to (i) the last sale price for Company Common Stock or Preferred Stock for
the business day immediately preceding the date on which any portion of the
Option is exercised as reported on the New York Stock Exchange, or, if Company
Common Stock or Preferred Stock is not traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on
the exchange on which such Common Stock or Preferred Stock is principally
traded, or, if no sale price is reported for such day, the first preceding
business day for which a sale price for Common Stock or Preferred Stock is
reported, or (ii) the value of any other Company security, as determined by the
Chief Financial Officer of the Company in a manner consistent, to the extent
possible, with the determination of fair market value of Company Common Stock or
Preferred Stock as provided in clause (i).

          SECTION 7.  Tax Provisions.  At the request of Employee, the Company
                      --------------                                          
shall retain or accept a sufficient number of shares in connection with the
receipt or exercise of the option or a sale of the underlying shares to satisfy
the 

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
Company's tax withholding obligations, if any, or Employee's tax liabilities
with respect to such transactions.

          SECTION 8.  Adjustments upon Certain Changes in the Common Stock. If,
                      ----------------------------------------------------     
after the date of this Agreement and prior to the full exercise of the Option,
the Company (without receiving compensation therefor) effects one or more. stock
splits, stock dividends, recapitalizations or other increases or reductions in
the number of shares of its outstanding Common Stock, then, unless the Board of
Directors expressly determines otherwise, the number of shares with respect to
the unexercised portion of the Option and the per share purchase price shall be
adjusted as follows:

          a.   in the event of a net increase in the number of shares of its
outstanding Common Stock, the number of shares shall be proportionately
increased, and the per share purchase price shall be proportionately reduced; or

          b.   in the event of a net reduction in the number of shares of its
outstanding Common Stock, the number of shares shall be proportionately reduced,
and the per share purchase price shall be proportionately increased.

          SECTION 9.  Employee's Rights Prior to Issuance of Shares.  Employee
                      ---------------------------------------------           
shall not be, nor shall Employee have any of the rights or privileges of, a
stockholder of the Company with regard to any of the shares issuable upon
exercise of the Option unless and until certificates for such shares have been
issued.

          SECTION 10.  Assignment or Transfer.  Except for transfer by
                       ----------------------                         
testamentary instrument or the laws of inheritance, descent and distribution,
the Option may not be transferred, assigned, pledged or hypothecated in any way
(whether by operation of law or otherwise) and shall not be subject to
execution, attachment or similar process.

          SECTION 11.  Continued Employment.  Employee shall have no duty or
                       --------------------                                 
obligation to remain in the employ of the Company or any subsidiary. Nothing in
this Agreement shall be deemed to confer upon Employee any right to continue in
the employ of the Company or to interfere in any way with the right of the
Company to terminate the employment of Employee, which (except as otherwise
provided in the Employment Agreement) is at will, at any time.

          SECTION 12.  Binding on Successors.  This Agreement shall be binding
                       ---------------------                                  
upon and inure to the benefit of the Company and Employee and their respective
successors, representatives and assigns.
<PAGE>
 
          SECTION 13.  Captions.  The captions of this Agreement are for
                       --------                                         
convenience and reference only and in no way define, describe, extend or limit
the scope or intent of any of its provisions.

          SECTION 14.  Amendments.  This Agreement may only be amended in
                       ----------                                        
writing and with the mutual consent of the Company and Employee.

          SECTION 15.  Applicable Law. This Agreement and any disputes arising
                       --------------                                         
under this Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the
laws of the State of Maryland and any applicable laws of the United States of
America.

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF the Company and Employee have executed this
Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

ATTEST/WITNESS:                     THE ROUSE COMPANY



                                    By    
- ------------------------              ----------------------------
                                         ANTHONY W. DEERING
                                         President and
                                         Chief Executive Officer


- ------------------------              ----------------------------
                                         JOHN L. GOOLSBY

                                      -7-
<PAGE>
 
                                                                     EXHIBIT C-2
                                                                     -----------


                               THE ROUSE COMPANY

                           1994 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

                      NONQUALIFIED STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT
                      -----------------------------------


          THIS NONQUALIFIED STOCK OPTION AGREEMENT, effective [Effective Date],
by and between THE ROUSE COMPANY, a Maryland corporation (the "Company"), and
John L. Goolsby (the "Employee").

                                   BACKGROUND
                                   ----------

          By action of its Board of Directors and Stockholders, the Company has
adopted The Rouse Company 1994 Stock Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), under which
the Company may grant stock options and other stock awards to employees of the
Company. The Plan is administered by a Committee of the Board of Directors that
has authority (i) to grant stock options to officers and other key employees of
the Company and, subject to the provisions of the Plan, to determine the
employees to whom and the time or times at which options will be granted, the
number of shares to be covered by each option, the period of time and requisite
conditions for exercising an option and the terms and provisions of the option
agreements and (ii) to determine the fair market value, from time to time, of a
share of Common Stock of the Company.

                                   THE OPTION
                                   ----------

          The Committee has determined to grant a nonqualified stock option to
Employee, and Employee, by his execution of this Agreement, agrees to accept the
nonqualified stock option, subject to the provisions of the Plan and the
following terms and conditions:

          SECTION 1.  Grant of Option.
                      --------------- 

          a.  Number of Shares.  The Company grants to Employee the right and
              ----------------                                               
option to purchase, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and
the Plan, a total of [40,000 minus number of incentive shares] shares of Common
Stock of the Company, par value one cent ($.01) per share ("Common Stock").

          b.  Option Price.  The purchase price of all such shares of Common
              ------------                                                  
Stock shall be [___________], which price is equal to the last sale price for
Common Stock on the Effective Date.
<PAGE>
 
          c.  "Option" Defined.  The option granted hereby and all of Employee's
              ----------------                                                  
rights under this Agreement and the Plan are referred to collectively as the
"Option."

          d.   Tax Status of Option.  This option is designated as not
               --------------------                                   
constituting an "incentive stock option" under Section 422 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.  If, however, there is a change in law that
permits all or any portion of the shares granted under this Agreement to be
treated as shares granted under an "incentive stock option," the Company (by the
Chairman of the Board or Chief Executive Officer of the Company) and Employee
may mutually agree that such shares shall be treated as shares granted under an
"incentive stock option," and the Company and Employee may amend this Agreement
or enter into such other agreements as may be necessary or desirable to provide
that such shares shall be treated as shares granted under an "incentive stock
option."

          SECTION 2.  Vesting of Option. The Company and the Employee
                      -----------------                              
acknowledge that simultaneously herewith the Employee and the Company are
entering into a letter agreement (the "Stock Grant Agreement") pursuant to which
the Employee is receiving a grant of 40,000 shares (the "Bonus Stock") of the
Common Stock of the Company.  Pursuant to the Stock Grant Agreement certain
restrictions apply to Employee's ownership of the Bonus Stock which restrictions
(the "Restrictions") may be removed as to percentages of the Bonus Stock as of
January 31, 1997, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1999.  It is intended that
the Option granted herein shall vest at the same time and in the same
percentages as the Restrictions on the Bonus Stock are removed. Accordingly, the
Option shall vest as to a percentage of the total shares of the Option on each
of January 31, 1997, January 31, 1998 and January 31, 1999, which percentage on
each such date shall equal the percentage of the total shares of Bonus Stock on
which the Restrictions are removed as of each such date.

     In addition, the Option immediately vests as to all of the shares of Common
Stock in the event of Employee's death, total disability (as defined in Section
5(d) below), retirement from the Company after attaining age 62, discharge
without good cause (as defined in Section 3 below), or in the event of the
Employee's termination of employment for Good Reason.

          As used in this paragraph, the term "Good Reason" shall mean the
occurrence of any of the following events which is not corrected by the Company
within 15 days after Employee has provided the Company with written notice of
such event:  (i) assignment to the Employee of any duties materially
inconsistent with the Employee's position, authority, duties or 

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
responsibilities with the Company as established pursuant to the Employment
Agreement between the Employee and the Company as then in effect, (ii) reduction
of Employee's annual base salary as established pursuant to the Employment
Agreement between Employee and the Company as then in effect, (iii) relocation
of the Company's principal executive offices or Employee's principal place of
performance of his duties and responsibility of employment with the Company to a
location outside the Greater Las Vegas area, (iv) a material breach by the
Company of any of its obligations to Employee pursuant to the Employment
Agreement between Employee and the Company as then in effect, (v) any amendment
to the articles or bylaws by the Company or Rouse that adversely affects the
Employee's right to indemnification by the Company or Rouse, except as may be
required by applicable federal or state law, and (vi) the failure of the Company
or Rouse to have the obligations under this Agreement assumed by any assignee
under Section 5.4 of the Employment Agreement.

          SECTION 3.  "Discharge Without Good Cause" and "Change of Control"
                       -----------------------------------------------------
Defined.
- ------- 

          a.  "Discharge Without Good Cause."  For purposes of this Agreement,
               ----------------------------                                   
"discharge without good cause" shall mean (i) any discharge other than discharge
due solely to an act or acts of gross or willful negligence or of intentional
wrongdoing or misconduct, which has or have a material adverse effect on
Employee's ability to perform the duties of his position or on the good
standing, financial condition or profitability of The Howard Hughes Corproation;
or (ii) any change of control of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation
(as hereinafter defined).

          b.  "Change of Control."  For purposes of this Agreement, a "change of
               -----------------                                                
control" shall mean (1) any merger by the Company or The Howard Hughes
Corporation with or into another corporation or corporations; (2) any
acquisition (by purchase, lease or otherwise) of all or substantially all of the
assets of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation by any person,
corporation or other entity or group thereof acting jointly; (3) the acquisition
of beneficial ownership, directly or indirectly, of voting securities of the
Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation (defined as Common Stock of the Company
or The Howard Hughes Corporation or any securities having voting rights that the
Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation may issue in the future) and rights to
acquire voting securities of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation
(defined as including, without limitation, securities that are convertible into
voting securities of the Company or The Howard Hughes Corporation (as defined
above) and rights, options, warrants and other agreements 

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
or arrangements to acquire such voting securities) by any person, corporation or
other entity or group thereof acting jointly, in such amount or amounts as would
permit such person, corporation or other entity or group thereof acting jointly
to elect a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of the Company or
The Howard Hughes Corporation, as then constituted; or (4) the acquisition of
beneficial ownership, directly or indirectly, of voting securities and rights to
acquire voting securities having voting power equal to 20% or more of the
combined voting power of the Company's or The Howard Hughes Corporation's then
outstanding voting securities by any person, corporation or other entity or
group thereof acting jointly. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, any
transaction that involves a mere change in identity, form or place of
organization within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1)(F) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended, or a transaction of similar effect, shall not
constitute a "change of control."

          SECTION 4.  Termination of Option.
                      --------------------- 

          a.  Termination for Cause.  If Employee's employment is terminated by
              ---------------------                                            
the Company for cause, all unexercised rights under the Option shall expire on
the date of such termination.

          b.  Other Termination.  If, before the Option vests as provided in
              -----------------                                             
Section 2 above, Employee's employment with the Company or any subsidiary
terminates for any reason other than death, total disability (as defined in
Section 5(d) below), retirement from the Company or any subsidiary after
attaining age 62, or discharge without good cause (as defined in Section 3
above), or the Employee's termination of employment for Good Reason (as defined
in Section 2 above) the Option shall terminate on the date of such termination,
and Employee shall have no rights under the Option or this Agreement.

          SECTION 5.  Exercise of Option.
                      ------------------ 

          a.  Exercise Period - General.  Subject to the provisions of Sections
              -------------------------                                        
5(b) and 5(c) below, Employee may exercise the Option to purchase the vested
shares at any time (whether while serving as an employee of the Company or any
subsidiary or after ceasing to be an employee of the Company or any subsidiary),
and from time to time (but not as to less than 10 shares at any one time), on
and after the date such shares have vested as provided in Section 2 above
through and including [Ten (10) years after the Effective Date (the "Expiration
Date")].

          b.  Exercise Period - Certain Terminations of Employment.  Employee
              ----------------------------------------------------           
may exercise the Option to purchase the 

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
vested shares for only one year following a voluntary termination of employment
other than upon retirement from the Company after attaining age 62, a
termination of employment due to a discharge without good cause (as defined in
Section 3 above) or the Employee's termination of employment for Good Reason (as
defined in Section 2 above).

          c.   Exercise Period - Death or Total Disability.  If Employee dies or
               -------------------------------------------                      
becomes totally disabled (as defined in Section 5(d) below) either while serving
as an employee of the Company or any subsidiary, or after ceasing to be an
employee of the Company or any subsidiary, the Option may be exercised with
respect to the vested shares by Employee or by the executor, administrator or
personal representative of Employee's estate or other person entitled by law to
Employee's rights under the Option at any time through and including the
Expiration Date.

          d.  "Total Disability" Defined.  "Total disability" shall mean a
               -------------------------                                  
disability that has continued for a period of more than 180 days and has
prevented Employee from performing in a usual and proper manner the functions of
his position.

          e.  Exercise before the Expiration Date. Notwithstanding any other
              -----------------------------------                           
provision of this Agreement, in no event may the Option or any portion of the
Option be exercised after February 21, 2006.

          SECTION 6.  Manner of Exercise; Notices.  The Option shall be
                      ---------------------------                      
exercised by sending to the Secretary of the Company a written notice of
Employee's intention to purchase such shares, specifying the number of shares
(but not less than 10 shares at any one time) and the date that the purchase is
to occur. Payment of the option price may be made (i) in U.S. dollars in cash or
by wire transfer, check, bank draft or money order payable to the Company, (ii)
through the delivery of Common Stock or other securities issued by the Company
that have a fair market value equal to the option price, or (iii) by a
combination of the foregoing.  Full payment must be made for all shares to be
purchased before the shares will be released to Employee.  The exercise notice
shall be addressed to the Secretary of the Company at The Rouse Company
Building, 10275 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, Maryland 21044, or at such
other address as the Company designates in writing to Employee.  Any notice to
Employee shall be sent to his address as shown in the records of the Company or
at such other address as Employee designates in writing to the Company.  Any
such notice shall be deemed to have been duly given if it is personally
delivered or registered and deposited, postage and registry fee prepaid, in a
United States Post Office.  For purposes of this Section 6, the "fair market

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
value" of any Company securities that are delivered in payment of the option
price shall be equal to (i) the last sale price for Company Common Stock or
Preferred Stock for the business day immediately preceding the date on which any
portion of the Option is exercised as reported on the New York Stock Exchange,
or, if Company Common Stock or Preferred Stock is not traded on the New York
Stock Exchange, on the exchange on which such Common Stock or Preferred Stock is
principally traded, or, if no sale price is reported for such day, the first
preceding business day for which a sale price for Common Stock or Preferred
Stock is reported, or (ii) the value of any other Company security, as
determined by the Chief Financial Officer of the Company in a manner consistent,
to the extent possible, with the determination of fair market value of Company
Common Stock or Preferred Stock as provided in clause (i).

          SECTION 7.  Tax Provisions.  At the request of Employee, the Company
                      --------------                                          
shall retain or accept a sufficient number of shares in connection with the
receipt or exercise of the Option or a sale of the underlying shares to satisfy
the Company's tax withholding obligations, if any, or Employee's tax liabilities
with respect to such transactions.

          SECTION 8.  Adjustments upon Certain Changes in the Common Stock.  If,
                      ----------------------------------------------------      
after the date of this Agreement and prior to the full exercise of the Option,
the Company (without receiving compensation therefor) effects one or more stock
splits, stock dividends, recapitalizations or other increases or reductions in
the number of shares of its outstanding Common Stock, then, unless the Board of
Directors expressly determines otherwise, the number of shares with respect to
the unexercised portion of the Option and the per share purchase price shall be
adjusted as follows:

          a.  in the event of a net increase in the number of shares of its
outstanding Common Stock, the number of shares shall be proportionately
increased, and the per share purchase price shall be proportionately reduced; or

          b.  in the event of a net reduction in the number of shares of its
outstanding Common Stock, the number of shares shall be proportionately reduced,
and the per share purchase price shall be proportionately increased.

          SECTION 9.  Employee's Rights Prior to Issuance of Shares.  Employee
                      ---------------------------------------------           
shall not be, nor shall Employee have any of the rights or privileges of, a
stockholder of the Company with regard to any of the shares issuable upon
exercise of the Option unless and until certificates for such shares have been
issued.

                                      -6-
<PAGE>
 
          SECTION 10.  Assignment or Transfer.  Except for transfer by
                       ----------------------                         
testamentary instrument or the laws of inheritance, descent and distribution,
the Option may not be transferred, assigned, pledged or hypothecated in any way
(whether by operation of law or otherwise) and shall not be subject to
execution, attachment or similar process.

          SECTION 11.  Continued Employment.  Employee shall have no duty or
                       --------------------                                 
obligation to remain in the employ of the Company or any subsidiary.  Nothing in
this Agreement shall be deemed to confer upon Employee any right to continue in
the employ of the Company or to interfere in any way with the right of the
Company to terminate the employment of Employee, which (except as otherwise
provided in the Employment Agreement) is at will, at any time.

          SECTION 12.  Binding on Successors.  This Agreement shall be binding
                       ---------------------                                  
upon and inure to the benefit of the Company and Employee and their respective
successors, representatives and assigns.

          SECTION 13.  Captions.  The captions of this Agreement are for
                       --------                                         
convenience and reference only and in no way define, describe, extend or limit
the scope or intent of any of its provisions.

          SECTION 14.  Amendments.  This Agreement may only be amended in
                       ----------                                        
writing and with the mutual consent of the Company and Employee.

          SECTION 15.  Applicable Law.  This Agreement and any disputes arising
                       --------------                                          
under this Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the
laws of the State of Maryland and any applicable laws of the United States of
America.

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF the Company and Employee have executed this
Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

ATTEST/WITNESS:                     THE ROUSE COMPANY

                                    By
- -----------------------------         ---------------------------
                                         ANTHONY W. DEERING
                                         President and
                                         Chief Executive Officer

- -----------------------------         ---------------------------
                                         John L. Goolsby

                                      -7-
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT 1
                                   ---------



     A business plan for The Howard Hughes Corporation (the "Business Plan")
shall be established for each of calendar years 1996, 1997 and 1998 as follows.
The Business Plan for 1996 is attached hereto as Exhibit 1-A.  On or prior to
December 15, 1996 and December 15, 1997, John Goolsby (the "Executive") shall
submit to the Chief Executive Officer of The Rouse Company (the "CEO") a
proposed Business Plan for the ensuing calendar year.  The proposed Business
Plan shall be in form similar to the 1996 Business Plan.

     The essential basis of the Business Plan shall be the achievement by the
Company of the "net income" amounts shown on the "Projected Summary of
Operations" which is attached hereto.  The parties however, recognize that the
Projected Summary of Operations reflects accounting policies and practices of
the Company in effect prior to the Merger.  To the extent that those accounting
policies are revised after the Merger, the amount of "net income" shall be
appropriately adjusted to reflect any such policy revisions.

     The proposed business plan shall be subject to review and approval by the
CEO.  The Executive and the CEO shall discuss in good faith any revisions to the
proposed plan required by the CEO, but such revisions shall be made unless they
require results in excess of the "net income" shown in the Projected Summary of
Operations.

     Within five (5) days after the financial results of the Company are
available to the CEO, the CEO shall determine in his good faith judgment whether
the Executive has achieved the objectives of the Business Plan.  If the CEO
determines that the Business Plan has not been achieved, then the CEO shall
communicate such fact to the Executive and the Executive shall have the
opportunity to discuss the CEO's determination with the CEO.  The decision of
the CEO, made in good faith, shall be final and binding.

     The CEO may take into consideration, to the extent he believes it
appropriate, factors affecting the Executive's ability to achieve the Business
Plan, such as unusual market conditions or inability of Rouse to provide equity
requirements or financing.  If such factors exist, the CEO may determine that
the Business Plan has been achieved notwithstanding that the net income amounts
for the Company have not been achieved.  However, the Executive acknowledges
that the essential determination is whether the "net income" amounts are
achieved notwithstanding the existence of conditions beyond the Executive's
control.
<PAGE>
 
                                  EXHIBIT 1-A
                                  -----------

                              1996 Business Plan
                              ------------------

     The following are key objectives for 1996:

          1. Produce revenues consistent with the Projected Summary of
             Operations.

          2. Complete or commence construction of the following
             commercial/residential projects in accordance with approved
             budgets.

             Hughes Center
             -------------
             Restaurant                          23,500 square feet
             Office                              85,000 square feet

             Summerlin Commercial
             --------------------
             Office/flex                         276,000 square feet

             Hughes Airport Center
             ---------------------
             Office/industrial/flex                   248,000 square feet

             Hughes Cheyenne Center
             ----------------------
             Industrial/flex                          210,000 square feet

          3. Continue or commence construction of required infrastructure to
             support land sales on Summerlin Villages 3, 11/12 and 14A.

          4. Complete next increment of Special Improvement District Financing
             of approximately $40,000,000 for Summerlin.

          5. Complete the lease up of new commercial buildings consistent with
             approved pro forma.

          6. Maintain occupancy in existing commercial buildings within 5% of
             December 1995 levels.

                                      -2-

<PAGE>
 
                                                                  Exhibit 12.1 
                      The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

               Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
                            (dollars in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   Year ended December 31,  
                                                                    -----------------------------------------------------
                                                                      1997       1996       1995       1994       1993
                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                                                 <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
Earnings before income taxes, extraordinary loss
 and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle            $ 73,826   $ 43,605   $ 10,169   $ 13,336   $  3,072
 
Fixed charges:
 Interest costs                                                      231,098    230,960    219,838    220,971    219,705
 Capitalized interest                                                (23,608)   (10,579)    (6,875)    (7,388)    (8,899)
 Amortization of debt issuance costs                                   1,645      2,066      2,527      2,146      2,801
 Distributions on Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable
  preferred securities of a trust holding solely Parent Company
  subordinated debt securities                                        12,719     12,719      1,204         --         --
 Portion of rental expense representative of interest factor (1)       7,949      8,487      8,266     10,788     15,988
 Support for debt service costs provided to affiliates
  accounted for under the equity method                                   --         --         --         --         31
 
Adjustments to earnings (loss):
 Minority interest in earnings of majority-owned subsidiaries
  having fixed charges                                                 3,178      1,164      2,026      2,234      1,909
 Undistributed earnings of less than 50%-owned subsidiaries              (34)       (88)      (189)      (564)       (68)
 Previously capitalized interest amortized into earnings:
  Depreciation of operating properties (2)                             3,962      3,866      3,764      3,670      3,605
  Cost of land sales (3)                                               5,025      1,778      1,421      1,580      1,627
                                                                    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
    Earnings available for fixed charges                            $315,760   $293,978   $242,151   $246,773   $239,771
                                                                    ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
 
Fixed charges:
 Interest costs                                                     $231,098   $230,960   $219,838   $220,971   $219,705
 Amortization of debt issuance costs                                   1,645      2,066      2,527      2,146      2,801
 Distributions on Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable
  preferred securities of a trust holding solely Parent Company
  subordinated debt securities                                        12,719     12,719      1,204         --         --
 Portion of rental expense representative of
  interest factor (1)                                                  7,949      8,487      8,266     10,788     15,988
 Support for debt service costs provided to affiliates
  accounted for under the equity method                                   --         --         --         --         31
                                                                    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
    Total fixed charges                                             $253,411   $254,232   $231,835   $233,905   $238,525
                                                                    ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
 
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges                                      1.25       1.16       1.04       1.06       1.01
                                                                    ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
</TABLE>

<PAGE>
                                                         Exhibit 12.1, continued

                      The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

               Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges


(1) Includes (a) 80% of minimum rentals, the portion of such rentals considered
    to be a reasonable estimate of the interest factor and (b) 100% of
    contingent rentals of $3,158,000, $3,844,000, $3,644,000, $6,232,000 and
    $10,006,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994 and
    1993, respectively.
(2) Represents an estimate of depreciation of capitalized interest costs based
    on the Company's established depreciation policy and an analysis of interest
    costs capitalized since 1971.
(3) Represents 10% of cost of Columbia land sales and 5% of cost of Summerlin
    land sales, the portions of such costs considered to be reasonable estimates
    of the interest factor.




<PAGE>
                                                                    Exhibit 12.2
                       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

           Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges
                   and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements
                             (dollars in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                 Year ended December 31, 
                                                                    ----------------------------------------------------
                                                                      1997       1996       1995       1994       1993
                                                                    ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                                                 <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
 
Earnings before income taxes, extraordinary loss
 and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle            $ 73,826   $ 43,605   $ 10,169   $ 13,336   $  3,072
 
Fixed charges:
 Interest costs                                                      231,098    230,960    219,838    220,971    219,705
 Capitalized interest                                                (23,608)   (10,579)    (6,875)    (7,388)    (8,899)
 Amortization of debt issuance costs                                   1,645      2,066      2,527      2,146      2,801
 Distributions on Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable
  preferred securities of a trust holding solely Parent Company
  subordinated debt securities                                        12,719     12,719      1,204         --         --
 Portion of rental expense representative of interest factor (1)       7,949      8,487      8,266     10,788     15,988
 Support for debt service costs provided to affiliates
  accounted for under the equity method                                   --         --         --         --         31
 
Adjustments to earnings (loss):
 Minority interest in earnings of majority-owned subsidiaries
  having fixed charges                                                 3,178      1,164      2,026      2,234      1,909
 Undistributed earnings of less than 50%-owned subsidiaries              (34)       (88)      (189)      (564)       (68)
 Previously capitalized interest amortized into earnings:
  Depreciation of operating properties (2)                             3,962      3,866      3,764      3,670      3,605
  Cost of land sales (3)                                               5,025      1,778      1,421      1,580      1,627
                                                                    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
    Earnings available for fixed charges and
     Preferred stock dividend requirements                          $315,760   $293,978   $242,151   $246,773   $239,771
                                                                    ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
 
Combined fixed charges and Preferred stock
 dividend requirements:
 Interest costs                                                     $231,098   $230,960   $219,838   $220,971   $219,705
 Amortization of debt expense                                          1,645      2,066      2,527      2,146      2,801
 Distributions on Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable
  preferred securities of a trust holding solely Parent Company
  subordinated debt securities                                        12,719     12,719      1,204         --         --
 Portion of rental expense representative of
  interest factor (1)                                                  7,949      8,487      8,266     10,788     15,988
 Support for debt service costs provided to affiliates
  accounted for under the equity method                                   --         --         --         --         31
 Preferred stock dividend requirements (4)                            10,313     17,555     24,402     21,802     18,968
                                                                    --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
    Total combined fixed charges and Preferred stock dividend
     requirements                                                   $263,724   $271,787   $256,237   $255,707   $257,493
                                                                    ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
 
Ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges
 and Preferred stock dividend requirements (5)                          1.20       1.08         --         --         --
                                                                    ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
</TABLE>
(1) Includes (a) 80% of minimum rentals, the portion of such rentals considered
    to be a reasonable estimate of the interest factor and (b) 100% of
    contingent rentals of $3,158,000 $3,844,000, $3,644,000, $6,232,000 and
    $10,006,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994 and
    1993, respectively.
(2) Represents an estimate of depreciation of capitalized interest costs based
    on the Company's established depreciation policy and an analysis of interest
    costs capitalized since 1971.
(3) Represents 10% of cost of Columbia land sales and 5% of cost of Summerlin
    land sales, the portions of such costs considered to be reasonable estimates
    of the interest factor.
(4) Represents estimated pre-tax earnings required to cover Preferred stock
    dividend requirements.  All amounts are calculated based on actual Preferred
    stock dividends and an estimated effective tax rate of 0% in 1997 and 40% in
    1996, 1995, 1994 and 1993.

<PAGE>
                                                         Exhibit 12.2, continued

                       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

           Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Combined Fixed Charges
                   and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements
                                        

(5) Total combined fixed charges and Preferred stock dividend requirements
    exceeded the Company's earnings available for combined fixed charges and
    Preferred stock dividend requirements by $14,086,000, $8,934,000 and
    $17,722,000 for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993,
    respectively.
 


<PAGE>
 
Exhibit 13.  Annual report to security holders

The annual report to shareholders has not been completed as of this filing and 
will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in its entirety on or 
before April 3, 1998.

The financial section of the annual report, which is incorporated by reference, 
is final and is enclosed as Exhibit 13.  This financial section includes all the
information incorporated by reference in Parts I, II and IV of this Form 10-K 
Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997.



<PAGE>
 
                          INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KPMG Peat Marwick LLP        
Certified Public Accountants 
111 South Calvert Street    
Baltimore, Maryland 21202    
                             


The Board of Directors and Shareholders
The Rouse Company:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Rouse
Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related
consolidated statements of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1997.
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based
on our audits. 

   We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

   In our opinion, the aforementioned consolidated financial statements present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The Rouse Company
and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of their
operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period
ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.

                                                   /s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP


February 24, 1998

22
<PAGE>
 
                       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                   December 31, 1997 and 1996 (in thousands)

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                             1997        1996
                                                          ---------   ---------
Assets
Property (notes 3, 4, 8, 16 and 17):
 Operating properties:
  Property and deferred costs of projects...............  $3,079,962  $3,198,343
 
  Less accumulated depreciation and amortization........     515,229     552,201
                                                          ----------  ----------
                                                           2,564,733   2,646,142

 Properties in development..............................     232,349     176,060
 Properties held for sale...............................      20,052      73,080
 Investment land and land held for development and sale.         ---     244,117
                                                          ----------  ----------

  Total property........................................   2,817,134   3,139,399
                                                          ----------  ----------

Investments in and advances to unconsolidated real
 estate ventures (note 3)...............................     338,692     100,181
Prepaid expenses, receivables under finance leases and
 other assets (note 16).................................     228,956     264,141
Accounts and notes receivable (note 5)..................     114,300      92,369
Investments in marketable securities....................       3,586       3,596
Cash and cash equivalents...............................      87,100      43,766
                                                          ----------  ----------

 Total..................................................  $3,589,768  $3,643,452
                                                          ==========  ==========

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

                                                                              23
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                          1997         1996
                                                       ----------   ----------
Liabilities
Debt (note 8):
 Property debt not carrying a Parent Company
  guarantee of repayment............................   $2,085,456   $2,290,406
 Parent Company debt and debt carrying a Parent
  Company guarantee of repayment:
  Property debt.....................................      158,093      179,540
  Convertible subordinated debentures...............      130,000      130,000
  Other debt........................................      256,000      235,300
                                                       ----------   ----------  
                                                          544,093      544,840
                                                       ----------   ----------
  Total debt........................................    2,629,549    2,835,246
                                                       ----------   ----------
Obligations under capital leases (note 16)..........       54,591       60,201
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other
 liabilities........................................      300,113      298,562
Deferred income taxes (note 11).....................        2,500      134,794
 
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred
 securities of a trust holding solely Parent Company 
 subordinated debt securities (note 9)..............      137,500      137,500
 
Commitments and contingencies (notes 16 and 17)
 
Shareholders' equity (notes 13, 14 and 15)

Series B Convertible Preferred stock with a
 liquidation preference of $202,500.................           41          ---

Common stock of 1c par value per share;
 250,000,000 shares authorized; issued 66,910,901
 shares in 1997 and 66,742,871 shares in 1996.......          669          667

Additional paid-in capital..........................      686,976      488,849
 
Accumulated deficit.................................     (222,171)    (312,367)
                                                       ----------   ----------
 Total shareholders' equity                               465,515      177,149
                                                       ----------   ----------
 
 Total..............................................   $3,589,768   $3,643,452
                                                       ==========   ==========

24
<PAGE>
 
                       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

Years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 (in thousands, except per share
data)

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                                      1997           1996             1995
                                                                                    --------       --------         --------
<S>                                                                                 <C>            <C>              <C>
Revenues.........................................................................   $930,094       $831,917         $672,821
Operating expenses, exclusive of provision for bad debts,
  depreciation and amortization..................................................    532,240        468,366          347,560
Interest expense (note 8)........................................................    207,490        220,381          212,963
Provision for bad debts..........................................................      5,766          3,688            3,318
Depreciation and amortization (note 4)...........................................     86,009         79,990           73,062
Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets and other provisions, net (note 12)........    (24,763)       (15,887)         (25,749)
                                                                                    --------       --------         --------

  Earnings before income taxes, extraordinary losses and
    cumulative effect of change in accounting principle..........................     73,826         43,605           10,169
                                                                                    --------       --------         --------

Income taxes (note 11):
  Current........................................................................      8,137            123              620
  Deferred--primarily Federal....................................................   (124,203)        25,596            3,699
                                                                                    --------       --------         --------
                                                                                    (116,066)        25,719            4,319
                                                                                    --------       --------         --------

  Earnings before extraordinary losses and cumulative effect
    of change in accounting principle............................................    189,892         17,886            5,850

Extraordinary losses, net (note 8)...............................................     21,342          1,453            8,631
Cumulative effect at October 1, 1997 of change in accounting
  for business process reengineering costs, net (note 1).........................      1,214             --               --
                                                                                    --------       --------         --------
  Net earnings (loss)............................................................   $167,336       $ 16,433         $ (2,781)
                                                                                    ========       ========         ========

  Net earnings (loss) applicable to common shareholders..........................   $157,023       $  5,900         $(17,422)
                                                                                    ========       ========         ========
  Earnings (loss) per share of common stock (note 15):
    Basic:
      Earnings (loss) before extraordinary losses................................   $   2.70       $    .13         $   (.19)
      Extraordinary losses.......................................................       (.32)          (.03)            (.18)
      Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle........................       (.02)            --               --
                                                                                    --------       --------         --------
        Total....................................................................   $   2.36       $    .10         $   (.37)
                                                                                    ========       ========         ========
    Diluted:
      Earnings (loss) before extraordinary losses................................   $   2.59       $    .12         $   (.19)
      Extraordinary losses.......................................................       (.28)          (.03)            (.18)
      Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle........................       (.02)            --               --
                                                                                    --------       --------         --------
        Total....................................................................   $   2.29       $    .09         $   (.37)
                                                                                    ========       ========         ========
</TABLE>



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.


                                                                             25
<PAGE>
 
                      The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
          Years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 (in thousands)

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
                                                     Series A   Series B            Additional
                                                    Preferred   Preferred  Common     paid-in    Accumulated
                                                      stock       stock     stock     capital      deficit
                                                    ---------   ---------  ------   ----------   -----------
<S>                                                 <C>         <C>        <C>      <C>          <C>
Balance at December 31, 1994......................    $ 45        $--      $476      $306,674     $(212,169)

Net loss..........................................      --         --        --            --        (2,781)
Dividends declared:
   Common stock -- $ .80 per share................      --         --        --            --       (38,292)
   Preferred stock -- $3.25 per share.............      --         --        --            --       (14,641)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options, net......      --         --         3         2,139            --
Amortization of restricted common stock awards....      --         --        --         1,130            --
                                                      ----        ---      ----      --------     ---------

Balance at December 31, 1995......................      45         --       479       309,943      (267,883)

Net earnings......................................      --         --        --            --        16,433
Dividends declared:
   Common stock -- $ .88 per share................      --         --        --            --       (50,384)
   Preferred stock -- $2.44 per share.............      --         --        --            --       (10,533)
Conversion of Series A Preferred stock (note 13)..     (45)        --       106           (61)           --
Purchases of common stock.........................      --         --        (2)       (7,005)           --
Common stock issued in acquisition of
   The Hughes Corporation (note 2)................      --         --        78       178,008            --
Common stock issued pursuant to Contingent
   Stock Agreement (note 14)......................      --         --         2         5,023            --
Proceeds from exercise of stock options, net......      --         --         4         1,038            --
Amortization of restricted common stock awards....      --         --        --         1,903            --
                                                      ----        ---      ----      --------     ---------

Balance at December 31, 1996......................      --         --       667       488,849      (312,367)

Net earnings......................................      --         --        --            --       167,336
Dividends declared:
   Common stock -- $1.00 per share................      --         --        --            --       (66,827)
   Preferred stock -- $2.65 per share.............      --         --        --            --       (10,313)
Issuance of Series B Preferred stock (note 13)....      --         41        --       196,787            --
Purchases of common stock.........................      --         --        (8)      (26,357)           --
Common stock issued pursuant to Contingent
   Stock Agreement (note 14)......................      --         --         8        23,305            --
Proceeds from exercise of stock options, net......      --         --         2         2,077            --
Amortization of restricted common stock awards....      --         --        --         2,315            --
                                                      ----        ---      ----      --------     ---------

Balance at December 31, 1997......................    $ --        $41      $669      $686,976     $(222,171)
                                                      ====        ===      ====      ========     =========  
</TABLE>



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.


26
<PAGE>
 
                       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
          Years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 (in thousands)

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               1997          1996          1995
                                                                            ---------     ---------     ---------
<S>                                                                         <C>           <C>           <C>
Cash flows from operating activities
Rents and other revenues received.......................................    $ 714,784     $ 685,990     $ 625,373
Proceeds from land sales................................................      159,932       122,245        33,233
Interest received.......................................................       11,877        11,939        10,323
Land development expenditures...........................................      (97,868)      (54,343)      (16,874)
Operating expenditures..................................................     (395,528)     (381,061)     (327,163)
Interest paid...........................................................     (207,681)     (216,644)     (217,891)
                                                                            ---------     ---------     ---------
   Net cash provided by operating activities............................      185,516       168,126       107,001
                                                                            ---------     ---------     ---------
Cash flows from investing activities
Expenditures for properties in development and
   improvements to existing properties funded by debt...................     (283,401)     (123,985)      (61,591)
Expenditures for acquisition of The Hughes
   Corporation, net of acquired cash....................................           --       (36,331)           --
Expenditures for property acquisitions..................................      (79,420)      (18,152)      (28,206)
Expenditures for improvements to existing properties
   funded by cash provided by operating activities:
      Tenant leasing and remerchandising................................       (5,964)       (8,095)       (8,344)
      Building and equipment............................................      (15,933)      (12,691)       (4,688)
Proceeds from sales of operating properties.............................       81,281        26,345            --
Purchases of marketable securities......................................      (15,378)       (8,903)       (5,411)
Proceeds from redemptions or sales of marketable securities.............       15,388         8,217        32,650
Other...................................................................      (19,052)       (9,400)       10,595
                                                                            ---------     ---------     ---------
   Net cash used by investing activities................................     (322,479)     (182,995)      (64,995)
                                                                            ---------     ---------     ---------
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of property debt.................................      693,525       291,373       288,851
Repayments of property debt:
   Scheduled principal payments.........................................      (46,282)      (39,048)      (36,446)
   Other payments.......................................................     (572,139)     (251,807)     (413,438)
Proceeds from issuance of other debt....................................      121,868       141,337       124,831
Repayments of other debt................................................     (111,520)     (109,685)      (42,440)
Proceeds from issuance of Company-obligated
   mandatorily redeemable preferred securities..........................           --            --       132,951
Proceeds from issuance of Series B Preferred stock......................      196,828            --            --
Purchases of common stock...............................................      (26,365)       (7,007)           --
Dividends paid..........................................................      (77,140)      (60,917)      (52,933)
Other...................................................................        1,522          (533)        2,142
                                                                            ---------     ---------     ---------

      Net cash provided (used) by financing activities..................      180,297       (36,287)        3,518
                                                                            ---------     ---------     ---------

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents....................       43,334       (51,156)       45,524
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year..........................       43,766        94,922        49,398
                                                                            ---------     ---------     ---------

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year................................    $  87,100     $  43,766     $  94,922
                                                                            =========     =========     =========
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.


                                                                              27
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reconciliation of Net Earnings (Loss) to Net Cash
  Provided by Operating Activities

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION>  
                                                                                             1997          1996         1995
                                                                                           --------      --------     ---------

<S>                                                                                        <C>           <C>          <C> 
Net earnings (loss)..................................................................      $167,336      $ 16,433     $ (2,781)
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash
  provided by operating activities:
  Depreciation and amortization......................................................        86,009        79,990       73,062
  (Gain) loss on dispositions of assets and other provisions, net....................        24,763        15,887       25,749
  Extraordinary losses, net..........................................................        21,342         1,453        8,631
  Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net...........................         1,214            --           --
  Additions to preconstruction reserve...............................................         2,800         2,700        3,800
  Provision for bad debts............................................................         5,766         3,688        3,318
  Decrease (increase) in:
    Accounts and notes receivable....................................................       (70,045)      (26,862)      (3,836)
    Other assets.....................................................................        (2,312)       (5,694)       1,357
  Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued expenses
    and other liabilities............................................................        84,615        54,729      (10,690)
  Deferred income taxes..............................................................      (124,203)       25,596        3,699
  Other, net.........................................................................       (11,769)          206        4,692
                                                                                           --------      --------      --------

Net cash provided by operating activities............................................      $185,516      $168,126      $107,001
                                                                                           ========      ========      ========
</TABLE> 
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Schedule of Noncash Investing and Financing Activities

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                             1997          1996         1995
                                                                                           --------      --------     ---------

<S>                                                                                        <C>           <C>          <C> 
Mortgage and other debt of subsidiaries in
  which a majority voting interest was sold
  to an affiliate (note 3)...........................................................      $280,595      $     --      $     --
Property of subsidiaries in which a majority voting
  interest was sold to an affiliate (note 3).........................................       549,171            --            --
Debt and other liabilities assumed in acquisition of
  The Hughes Corporation, net (note 2)...............................................            --       334,155            --
Common stock issued in acquisition of The Hughes
  Corporation (note 2)...............................................................            --       178,086            --
Common stock issued pursuant to Contingent Stock
  Agreement (note 14)................................................................        23,313         5,025            --
Debt assumed by purchasers of land...................................................        21,928        16,991            --
Notes received from sales of operating properties....................................            --         8,440            --
Value of noncash consideration given in
  acquisitions of interests in properties............................................         5,323        13,520        79,811
Mortgage and other debt assumed in acquisitions of
  interests in properties............................................................            --        21,090         6,175
Mortgage debt extinguished on dispositions
  of interests in properties.........................................................            --            --        20,779
Capital lease obligations incurred...................................................         1,101         3,789         1,837
                                                                                           ========      ========      ========
</TABLE>

28
<PAGE>
 
                       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                        December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Summary of significant accounting policies

(a) Description of business

Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, the Company acquires, develops and/or
manages income-producing properties located throughout the United States and
develops and sells land for residential, commercial and other uses, primarily in
Columbia, Maryland and Summerlin, Nevada. The income-producing properties
consist of retail centers, office and industrial buildings and mixed-use and
other properties. The retail centers are primarily regional shopping centers in
suburban market areas, but also include specialty marketplaces in certain
downtown areas and several village centers, primarily in Columbia. The office
and industrial properties are located primarily in the Columbia, Baltimore and
Las Vegas market areas or are components of large-scale mixed-use properties
(which include retail, parking and other uses) located in other urban markets.
Land development and sales operations are predominantly related to large-scale,
long-term community development projects.

     The proportionate revenues of the Company's lines of business are
summarized as follows:
 
                                                         1997    1996    1995
                                                         ----    ----    ----
Retail centers.........................................   54%     61%     73%
Office, mixed-use and other properties.................   24      22      22
Land sales.............................................   22      17       5
                                                         ---     ---     ---
     Total                                               100%    100%    100%
                                                         ===     ===     ===
                                                          
(b) Basis of presentation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Rouse Company,
all subsidiaries and partnerships in which it has a majority voting interest and
control and the Company's proportionate share of the assets, liabilities,
revenues and expenses of unincorporated real estate ventures in which it has
joint interest and control with other venturers. Investments in other ventures
are accounted for using the equity or cost methods as appropriate in the
circumstances. Significant intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated
in consolidation.

     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosures of contingencies at the date of the financial statements and
revenues and expenses recognized during the reporting period. Significant
estimates are inherent in the preparation of the Company's financial statements
in a number of areas, including evaluation of impairment of long-lived assets
(including operating properties, investment land and land held for development
and sale), determination of useful lives of assets subject to depreciation or
amortization, evaluation of collectibility of accounts and notes receivable and
measurement of pension and postretirement obligations. Actual results could
differ from those estimates.

     Certain amounts for prior years have been reclassified to conform to the
presentation for 1997.

(c) Property

Properties to be developed or held and used in operations are carried at cost
reduced for impairment losses, where appropriate. Properties held for sale are
carried at cost reduced for valuation allowances, where appropriate.
Acquisition, development and construction costs of operating properties,
properties in development and land development projects are capitalized
including, where applicable, salaries and related costs, real estate taxes,
interest and preconstruction costs. The preconstruction stage of development of
an operating property (or an expansion of an existing property) includes efforts
and related costs to secure land control and zoning, evaluate feasibility and
complete other initial tasks which are essential to development. These costs are
transferred to construction and development in progress when the preconstruction
tasks are completed. Provision is made for potentially unsuccessful
preconstruction efforts by charges to operations. Costs of significant
improvements, replacements and renovations at operating properties are
capitalized, while costs of maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.
Direct costs associated with financing and leasing of operating properties are
capitalized as deferred costs and amortized over the periods benefited by the
expenditures.

     Depreciation of operating properties is computed using the straight-line
method. The annual rate of depreciation for most of the Company's retail centers
is based on a 55-year com-

                                                                              29

<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

posite life and a salvage value of approximately 10%, producing an effective
annual rate of depreciation for new properties of 1.6%. The other retail
centers, all office buildings and other properties are generally depreciated
using composite lives of 40 years producing an effective annual rate of
depreciation for such properties of 2.5%.

     If events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an operating
property to be held and used or a land development project may be impaired, a
recoverability analysis is performed based on estimated nondiscounted future
cash flows to be generated from the property or project. If the analysis
indicates that the carrying value is not recoverable from future cash flows, the
property or project is written down to estimated fair value and an impairment
loss is recognized.

     Properties held for sale are carried at the lower of their carrying values
(i.e., cost less accumulated depreciation and any impairment loss recognized,
where applicable) or estimated fair values less costs to sell. The net carrying
values of operating properties are classified as properties held for sale when
marketing of the properties for sale is authorized by management. Depreciation
of these properties is discontinued at that time, but operating revenues,
interest and other operating expenses continue to be recognized until the date
of sale.

(d) Sales of property

Gains from sales of operating properties and revenues from land sales are
recognized using the full accrual method provided that various criteria relating
to the terms of the transactions and any subsequent involvement by the Company
with the properties sold are met. Gains or revenues relating to transactions
which do not meet the established criteria are deferred and recognized when the
criteria are met or using the installment or cost recovery methods, as
appropriate in the circumstances. For land sale transactions under terms of
which the Company is required to perform additional services and incur
significant costs after title has passed, revenues and costs of sales are
recognized proportionately on a percentage of completion basis.

     Cost of land sales is generally determined as a specified percentage of
land sales revenues recognized for each land development project. The cost
percentages used are based on estimates of development costs and sales revenues
to completion of each project and are revised periodically for changes in
estimates or development plans. The specific identification method is used to
determine cost of sales of certain parcels of land.

(e) Leases

Leases which transfer substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership to
tenants are considered finance leases and the present values of the minimum
lease payments and the estimated residual values of the leased properties, if
any, are accounted for as receivables. Leases which transfer substantially all
the risks and benefits of ownership to the Company are considered capital leases
and the present values of the minimum lease payments are accounted for as
property and obligations.

     In general, minimum rent revenues are recognized when due from tenants;
however, estimated collectible minimum rent revenues under leases which provide
for varying rents over their terms are averaged over the terms of the leases.

(f) Income taxes

In December 1997, the Company determined that it would elect to be taxed as a
real estate investment trust (REIT) pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code, as
amended, effective January 1, 1998. In general, a corporation that distributes
at least 95% of its REIT taxable income to shareholders in any taxable year and
complies with certain other requirements (relating primarily to the nature of
its assets and the sources of its revenues) is not subject to Federal income
taxation to the extent of the income which it distributes. Management believes
that the Company met the qualifications for REIT status as of December 31, 1997
and intends for it to continue to meet the qualifications in the future and to
distribute at least 100% of its REIT taxable income (determined after taking
into account any net operating loss deduction) to shareholders in 1998 and
subsequent years. As discussed more fully in note 11, management also does not
expect that the Company will pay taxes on "built-in gains" on its assets. Based
on these considerations, management does not believe that the Company will be
liable for income taxes at the Federal level or in most of the states in which
it operates in future years. Accordingly, the Company eliminated substantially
all of its existing deferred tax 

30
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

assets and liabilities at December 31, 1997 and does not expect to provide for
deferred income taxes in future periods except in certain states.

     Where required, deferred income taxes are accounted for using the asset and
liability method. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for
temporary differences between the financial reporting bases of assets and
liabilities and their respective tax bases and for operating loss and tax credit
carryforwards based on enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when such
amounts are realized or settled. However, deferred tax assets are recognized
only to the extent that it is more likely than not that they will be realized
based on consideration of available evidence, including tax planning strategies
and other factors.

(g) Investments in marketable securities and cash and cash equivalents

The Company's investment policy defines authorized investments and establishes
various limitations on the maturities, credit quality and amounts of investments
held. Authorized investments include U.S. government and agency obligations,
certificates of deposit, bankers acceptances, repurchase agreements, commercial
paper, money market mutual funds and corporate debt and equity securities.

     Investments with maturities at dates of purchase in excess of three months
are classified as marketable securities and carried at amortized cost as it is
the Company's intention to hold these investments until maturity. Short-term
investments with maturities at dates of purchase of three months or less are
classified as cash equivalents, except that any such investments purchased with
the proceeds of loans which may be expended only for specified purposes are
classified as investments in marketable securities. At December 31, 1997 and
1996, investments in marketable securities consist primarily of U.S. government
and agency obligations with maturities of less than one year which are held for
restricted uses.

(h) Interest rate exchange agreements

The Company makes limited use of interest rate exchange agreements, including
interest rate caps and swaps, primarily to manage interest rate risk associated
with variable rate debt. Under interest rate cap agreements, the Company makes
initial premium payments to the counterparties in exchange for the right to
receive payments from them if interest rates on the related variable rate debt
exceed specified levels during the agreement period. Premiums paid are amortized
to interest expense over the terms of the agreements using the interest method
and payments receivable from the counterparties are accrued as reductions of
interest expense. Under interest rate swap agreements, the Company and the
counterparties agree to exchange the difference between fixed rate and variable
rate interest amounts calculated by reference to specified notional principal
amounts during the agreement period. Notional principal amounts are used to
express the volume of these transactions, but the cash requirements and amounts
subject to credit risk are substantially less. Amounts receivable or payable
under swap agreements are accounted for as adjustments to interest expense on
the related debt.

     Parties to interest rate exchange agreements are subject to market risk for
changes in interest rates and risk of credit loss in the event of nonperformance
by the counterparty. The Company does not require any collateral under these
agreements but deals only with highly rated financial institution counterparties
(which, in certain cases, are also the lenders on the related debt) and does not
expect that any counterparties will fail to meet their obligations.

(i) Other information about financial instruments

Fair values of financial instruments approximate their carrying values in the
financial statements except for debt and related interest rate exchange
agreements for which fair value information is provided in note 8.

(j) Earnings (loss) per share of common stock

The Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128,
"Earnings per Share" in 1997 and, as required by the Statement, earnings per
share (EPS) data presented for prior periods have been restated to conform to
the new standard.

     In accordance with the provisions of the Statement, basic EPS is computed
by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average
number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS is computed after adjusting the
numerator and denominator of the basic EPS computation for the effects of all
dilutive potential common shares outstanding dur-

                                                                              31
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ing the period. The dilutive effects of convertible securities are computed
using the "if-converted" method and the dilutive effects of options, warrants
and their equivalents (including fixed awards and nonvested stock issued under
stock-based compensation plans) are computed using the "treasury stock" method.

(k) Stock-based compensation

The Company uses the intrinsic value method to account for stock-based employee
compensation plans. Under this method, compensation cost is recognized for
awards of shares of common stock or stock options to employees only if the
quoted market price of the stock at the grant date (or other measurement date,
if later) is greater than the amount the employee must pay to acquire the stock.
Information concerning the pro forma effects on net earnings (loss) and earnings
(loss) per share of common stock of using an optional fair value-based method,
rather than the intrinsic value method, to account for stock-based compensation
plans is provided in note 14.

(l) Business process reengineering costs

Effective October 1, 1997, the Company adopted a policy of charging costs of
business process reengineering activities to expense as incurred as required by
a consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force of the Financial Accounting
Standards Board. Prior to that date, such costs were deferred and amortized over
the period benefited by the expenditures. The cumulative effect at October 1,
1997 of this accounting change was to reduce net earnings for 1997 by $1,214,000
($.02 per share), net of related income tax benefits of $654,000. The effect of
this change on earnings before extraordinary losses and net earnings for 1997,
excluding the cumulative effect of the change, was not material and application
of the new policy in 1996 and 1995 would not have had a material effect on
earnings before extraordinary losses, net earnings (loss) or related per share
amounts reported for those periods.

(2) Acquisition of The Hughes Corporation and related matters

On June 12, 1996, the Company acquired all of the outstanding equity interests
in The Hughes Corporation and its affiliated partnership, Howard Hughes
Properties, Limited Partnership (together, "Hughes"). In connection with the
acquisition, the Company issued 7,742,884 shares of common stock valued at
$178,086,000 and incurred or assumed debt and other liabilities of $370,486,000
(net of certain receivables and other current assets acquired). As discussed in
note 14, additional shares of common stock (or, in certain circumstances,
Increasing Rate Cumulative Preferred stock) may be issued to the former Hughes
owners or their successors pursuant to terms of a Contingent Stock Agreement.
The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method. The total purchase
cost approximated the aggregate fair value of the assets acquired which consist
primarily of a regional shopping center and a large-scale, master-planned
community in Las Vegas, Nevada, and four large-scale, master-planned business
parks and various other properties in Nevada and Southern California.

     The consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31,
1996 includes revenues and costs and expenses from the date of acquisition. The
Company's unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations for the years
ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, assuming the acquisition of Hughes occurred on
January 1, 1995, are summarized as follows (in thousands, except per share
data):

                                                               1996       1995
                                                             --------   --------
Revenues..................................................   $883,686   $956,094
Earnings before extraordinary losses......................     20,990     29,504
Net earnings..............................................     19,537     20,873
Earnings per share of common stock:
   Basic:
      Earnings before extraordinary losses................        .16        .26
      Net earnings........................................        .14        .10
   Diluted:
      Earnings before extraordinary losses................        .16        .26
      Net earnings........................................        .14        .10
                                                             ========   ========

     The unaudited pro forma revenues and earnings summarized above are not
necessarily indicative of the results that would have occurred if the
acquisition had been consummated on January 1, 1995.

32
<PAGE>
 
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(3) Unconsolidated real estate ventures

Investments in and advances to unconsolidated real estate ventures at 
December 31, 1997 and 1996 are summarized, based on the level of the Company's
financial interest, as follows (in thousands):

                                                               1997      1996
                                                             --------  --------
Majority interest ventures.................................  $259,320  $     --
Joint interest and control ventures........................     3,412     6,235
Minority interest ventures.................................    75,960    93,946
                                                             --------  --------
     Total.................................................  $338,692  $100,181
                                                             ========  ========

     The ventures in which the Company has majority financial interests were
initiated on December 31, 1997 when certain wholly owned subsidiaries issued 91%
of their voting common stock to The Rouse Company Incentive Compensation
Statutory Trust, an entity which is neither owned nor controlled by the Company,
for an aggregate consideration of $1,400,000. These sales were made at fair
value and as part of the Company's plan to meet the qualifications for REIT
status. The Company retained the remaining voting stock of the ventures and
holds shares of nonvoting common and/or preferred stock and, in certain cases,
mortgage loans receivable from the ventures which, taken together, comprise
substantially all (at least 98%) of the financial interest in them. As a result
of its disposition of the majority voting interest in the ventures, the Company
began accounting for its investment in them using the equity method effective
December 31, 1997. Due to the Company's continuing financial interest in the
ventures, it recognized no gain on the sales of stock for financial reporting
purposes and the ventures did not adjust the cost basis of their assets and
liabilities. The assets of the ventures consist primarily of land to be
developed and sold as part of community development projects in Columbia and Las
Vegas, other investment land, primarily in Nevada, certain office and retail
properties in Columbia and contracts to manage various operating properties.

     The condensed, combined balance sheets of these ventures at December 31,
1997, are summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
Assets:
   Operating properties, net.........................................  $211,385
   Properties in development.........................................    23,144
   Properties held for sale..........................................    46,289
   Land held for development and sale................................   233,406
   Investment land...................................................    34,947
   Other.............................................................    80,355
                                                                       --------
     Total...........................................................  $629,526
                                                                       ========
Liabilities and shareholders' deficit:
   Loans and advances from The Rouse Company.........................  $298,705
   Mortgages payable and other long-term debt........................   280,595
   Other liabilities.................................................    89,710
   Shareholders' deficit.............................................   (39,484)
                                                                       --------
     Total...........................................................  $629,526
                                                                       ========

     The ventures in which the Company has joint interest and control are
accounted for using the proportionate share method. These ventures are
partnerships that own various retail centers which are managed by affiliates of
the Company. The consolidated financial statements include the Company's
proportionate share of its historical cost of these properties and depreciation
based on the Company's depreciation policies which differ, in certain cases,
from those of the ventures.

                                                                              33
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  The condensed, combined balance sheets of these ventures and the Company's
proportionate share of their assets, liabilities and equity at December 31, 1997
and 1996 and the condensed, combined statements of earnings of these ventures
and the Company's proportionate share of their revenues and expenses for 1997,
1996 and 1995 are summarized as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     Combined       Proportionate Share
                                                                ------------------  -------------------
                                                                  1997      1996       1997      1996
                                                                --------  --------   --------  --------
<S>                                                             <C>       <C>        <C>       <C> 
Total assets, primarily property..............................  $353,132  $296,232   $153,399  $119,702
                                                                ========  ========   ========  ========
Liabilities, primarily long-term debt.........................  $247,949  $223,480   $109,852  $ 98,436
Venturers' equity.............................................   105,183    72,752     43,547    21,266
                                                                --------  --------   --------  --------
 Total liabilities and venturers' equity......................  $353,132  $296,232   $153,399  $119,702
                                                                ========  ========   ========  ========
 <CAPTION> 
                                                      Combined                Proportionate Share
                                            ----------------------------  -----------------------------
                                              1997      1996      1995      1997       1996      1995
                                            --------  --------  --------  --------   --------  --------
<S>                                         <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>        <C>       <C> 
Revenues..................................  $123,802  $118,360  $128,979  $ 55,477   $ 56,105  $ 58,085
Operating and interest expenses...........    69,825    65,862    77,223    31,528     29,535    35,336
Depreciation and amortization.............    12,013    11,257    13,071     3,657      2,588     3,472
                                            --------  --------  --------  --------   --------  --------
 Net earnings.............................  $ 41,964  $ 41,241  $ 38,685  $ 20,292   $ 23,982  $ 19,277
                                            ========  ========  ========  ========   ========  ========
</TABLE>

  The ventures in which the Company holds minority interests are accounted for
using the equity or cost methods, as appropriate. These ventures include
partnerships and corporations which own retail centers, office buildings and
various other properties. Most of these properties are managed by affiliates of
the Company and the agreements relating to them generally provide for preference
returns to the Company when operating results or sale or refinancing proceeds
exceed specified levels.

  The condensed, combined balance sheets of these ventures at December 31, 1997
and 1996 and their condensed, combined statements of earnings for 1997, 1996 and
1995 are summarized as follows (in thousands):

                                                         1997       1996
                                                     ----------  ---------- 
 
Total assets, primarily property...................  $1,168,574  $1,340,699
                                                     ==========  ==========

Liabilities, primarily long-term debt..............  $  530,482  $  540,418
Venturers' equity..................................     638,092     800,281
                                                     ----------  ----------
 Total liabilities and venturers' equity...........  $1,168,574  $1,340,699
                                                     ==========  ==========
 
[CAPTION] 
                                              1997       1996        1995
                                            --------   --------    -------- 

Revenues..................................  $216,782   $201,769    $209,100
Operating and interest expenses...........   152,545    138,460     141,509
Depreciation and amortization.............    38,757     35,634      39,701
Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets.....   (11,097)     1,110          --
                                            --------   --------    --------
 Net earnings.............................  $ 14,383   $ 28,785    $ 27,890
                                            ========   ========    ========

  The Company's share of net earnings of these ventures was $6,936,000,
$9,127,000, and $7,559,000 in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

34
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(4) Property

Operating properties and deferred costs of projects at December 31, 1997 and
1996 are summarized as follows (in thousands):

                                                          1997        1996
                                                       ----------  ---------- 
Buildings and improvements...........................  $2,729,908  $2,822,164
Land.................................................     231,935     244,243
Deferred costs.......................................     111,455     113,904
Furniture and equipment..............................       6,664      18,032
                                                       ----------  ---------- 
 Total...............................................  $3,079,962  $3,198,343
                                                       ==========  ==========

  Depreciation expense for 1997, 1996 and 1995 was $73,816,000, $66,689,000, and
$59,247,000, respectively. Amortization expense for 1997, 1996 and 1995 was
$12,193,000, $13,301,000, and $13,815,000, respectively.

  Properties in development include construction and development in progress and
preconstruction costs, net. Construction and development in progress includes
land and land improvements of $41,951,000 and $41,032,000 at December 31, 1997
and 1996, respectively.

  Properties held for sale are generally those that, for various reasons,
management has determined do not meet the Company's investment criteria.
Properties held for sale at December 31, 1997 and 1996 are summarized as follows
(in thousands):

 
                                                             1997         1996
                                                          --------       -------
Retail centers (three properties in 1997 and                     
 six properties in 1996)............................      $ 10,499      $ 70,775
Office and other properties.........................         9,553         2,305
                                                          --------      --------
 Total..............................................      $ 20,052      $ 73,080
                                                          ========      ========

  Revenues relating to properties held for sale were $17,642,000 in 1997,
$29,600,000 in 1996 and $8,355,000 in 1995, and operating losses relating to
these properties were $3,558,000 in 1997, $811,000 in 1996 and $1,174,000 in
1995. All of the properties held for sale at December 31, 1997 are expected to
be sold in 1998.

  Investment land and land held for development and sale at December 31, 1996 is
summarized as follows (in thousands):

Land under development................................................  $ 87,301
Finished land.........................................................    59,913
Raw land..............................................................    96,903
                                                                        --------
 Total................................................................  $244,117
                                                                        ========
 
(5) Accounts and notes receivable
 
Accounts and notes receivable at December 31, 1997 and 1996 are summarized as
 follows (in thousands):
                                                                1997      1996
                                                              --------  --------
Accounts receivable, primarily accrued rents and
 income under tenant leases................................   $ 49,424  $ 67,527
Notes receivable from sales of properties..................     10,154    16,929
Notes receivable from sales of land........................     76,033    36,066
                                                              --------  --------
                                                               135,611   120,522
Less allowance for doubtful receivables....................     21,311    28,153
                                                              --------  --------
 Total.....................................................   $114,300  $ 92,369
                                                              ========  ========

  Accounts and notes receivable due after one year were $54,180,000 and
$41,654,000 at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

  Credit risk with respect to receivables from tenants is not highly
concentrated due to the large number of tenants and the geographic
diversification of the Company's operating properties. The Company performs
credit evaluations of prospective new tenants and requires security deposits in
certain circumstances. Tenants' compliance with the terms of their leases is
monitored closely, and the allowance for doubtful receivables is established
based on analyses of the risk of loss on specific tenant accounts, historical
trends and other relevant information. Notes receivable from sales of land are
primarily due from builders at the community development project in Las Vegas.
The Company does not anticipate financing any future land sales. The Company
performed credit evaluations of the builders and generally required substantial
down payments (at least 20%) on all land sales that it financed. These notes and
notes from sales of operating properties are generally secured by first liens on
the related properties.
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(6) Pension and deferred compensation plans

The Company has a defined benefit pension plan (the "funded plan") covering
substantially all employees and employees of certain affiliates. The Company's
policy is to fund, at a minimum, current service costs and amortization of
unfunded accrued liabilities subject to the limits of the Internal Revenue Code.
In addition, the Company has separate, nonqualified unfunded retirement plans
(the "unfunded plans") covering directors and participants whose defined
benefits exceed the limits of the funded plan. Benefits under the pension plans
are based on the participants' years of service and compensation.

 The net pension cost includes the following components (in thousands):
 
                                                     1997      1996      1995
                                                   -------   --------   -------
Service cost....................................   $ 3,373   $  2,989   $ 2,382
Interest cost on projected benefit                
 obligations....................................     3,702      3,107     3,309
Actual return on funded plan assets.............    (7,870)    (4,997)   (5,422)
Other, net......................................     6,678      4,022     3,262
                                                   -------   --------   -------
 Net pension cost...............................   $ 5,883   $  5,121   $ 3,531
                                                   =======   ========   =======

 The funded status of the pension plans at December 31, 1997 and 1996 is
summarized as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                   1997                 1996
                                            ------------------  -------------------    
                                             Funded   Unfunded    Funded   Unfunded    
                                              Plan      Plans      Plan      Plans     
                                            --------  --------   --------  --------    
<S>                                         <C>       <C>        <C>       <C> 
Accumulated benefit obligations:                                                       
 Vested................................     $ 38,959   $ 8,112   $ 30,589   $ 2,610    
 Nonvested.............................        4,445       706      3,386       193    
                                            -------    ------    -------    ------     
  Total................................     $ 43,404   $ 8,818   $ 33,975   $ 2,803    
                                            ========   =======   ========   =======    
                                                                                       
Projected benefit obligations..........     $ 47,454   $ 9,986   $ 38,567   $ 4,322    
Plan assets at fair value..............      (47,083)       --    (38,990)       --    
                                            --------   -------   --------   -------    
Projected benefit obligations                                                          
 over (under) plan assets..............          371     9,986       (423)    4,322    
Unamortized prior service cost.........       (4,259)   (4,804)    (1,888)   (2,081)   
Unrecognized net loss..................      (10,959)   (1,333)    (8,513)     (330)   
Unrecognized net obligation at                                                         
 January 1, 1987, net of amortization..         (531)     (540)      (598)     (676)   
Additional minimum liability...........           --     5,508         --     1,568    
                                            --------   -------   --------   -------    
 Accrued (prepaid) pension cost........     $(15,378)  $ 8,817   $(11,422)  $ 2,803    
                                            ========   =======   ========   =======     
</TABLE> 

  The aggregate accumulated benefit obligations for the plans for 1997 increased
approximately $6,400,000 as a result of a plan amendment which changed the
benefit formula effective January 1, 1997. The projected benefit obligations for
the plans were determined using discount rates of 7.25% and 7.75% in 1997 and
1996, respectively. The rates of compensation increases assumed were 4.5% in
1997 and 1996. The expected long-term rates of return on plan assets of the
funded plan were 8% in 1997 and 1996. The assets of the funded plan consist
primarily of pooled separate accounts with an insurance company and marketable
equity securities.

  The Company also has a deferred compensation program which permits directors
and certain management employees of the Company and certain affiliates to defer
portions of their compensation on a pretax basis. The participants designate the
investment of the deferred funds, based on various alternatives, and, under
certain of the plans, the Company matches a percentage of the participants'
contributions in common stock. Total deferred compensation liabilities were
$11,183,000 and $6,584,000 at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

36
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(7) Other postretirement benefits

The Company has a retiree benefits plan that provides postretirement medical and
life insurance benefits to full-time employees of the Company and certain
affiliates who meet minimum age and service requirements. The Company pays a
portion of the cost of participants' life insurance coverage and makes
contributions based on years of service to the cost of participants' medical
insurance coverage, subject to a maximum annual contribution.

 The net postretirement benefit cost includes the following components (in
thousands):
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                       1997     1996      1995
                                                      ------   ------    ------
<S>                                                   <C>      <C>       <C> 
Service cost........................................  $  578   $  640    $  607
Interest cost on accumulated benefit obligation.....     990      932       853
Amortization of transition obligation at January 1,                      
 1993...............................................     333      333       484
Amortization of net gain............................      --       --       (26)
                                                      ------   ------    ------
 Net postretirement benefit cost....................  $1,901   $1,905    $1,918
                                                      ======   ======    ======
<CAPTION> 
 The status of the postretirement benefit plan at December 31, 1997 and 1996 is 
  summarized as follows (in thousands):
                                                                1997      1996
                                                              -------   -------
<S>                                                           <C>       <C> 
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation:              
 Retirees.................................................    $ 6,954   $ 7,303
 Other fully eligible participants........................      1,420     1,170
 Other active participants................................      6,294     4,729
                                                              -------   ------- 
                                                               14,668    13,202
Unrecognized net gain.....................................        199       739
Unrecognized transition obligation........................     (4,998)   (5,331)
                                                              -------   -------
 
 Accrued postretirement benefit cost......................    $ 9,869   $ 8,610
                                                              =======   =======

</TABLE> 
  The weighted average discount rates used to determine the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation were 7.25% and 7.75% in 1997 and 1996,
respectively. The transition obligation at January 1, 1993 is being amortized to
postretirement benefit cost over 20 years. Because the Company's contributions
are fixed, health care cost trend rates do not affect the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation.

(8) Debt

In recognition of the various characteristics of real estate financing, debt is
classified as follows:

(a)  "Property debt not carrying a Parent Company guarantee of repayment" which
     is subsidiary company debt having no express written obligation which would
     require the Company to repay the principal amount of such debt during the
     full term of the loan (nonrecourse loans); and

(b)  "Parent Company debt and debt carrying a Parent Company guarantee of
     repayment" which is debt of the Company and subsidiary company debt with an
     express written obligation of the Company to repay the principal amount of
     such debt during the full term of the loan (Company and recourse loans).

  With respect to nonrecourse loans, the Company has in the past and may in the
future, under some circumstances, support those subsidiary companies whose
annual obligations, including debt service, exceed their operating revenues. At
December 31, 1997 and 1996, nonrecourse loans include $416,335,000 and
$475,754,000, respectively, of subsidiary companies' mortgages and bonds which
are subject to agreements with lenders requiring the Company to provide support
for operating and debt service costs, where necessary, for defined periods or
until specified conditions relating to the operating results of the related
properties are met.

 Debt at December 31, 1997 and 1996 is summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
                                                           1997        1996  
                                                        ----------  ----------
                                                                             
Mortgages and bonds.................................    $2,159,418  $2,279,971
Convertible subordinated debentures.................       130,000     130,000
Medium-term notes...................................       110,300     115,300
Credit line borrowings..............................            --      64,000
Other loans.........................................       229,831     245,975
                                                        ----------  ----------
 Total..............................................    $2,629,549  $2,835,246
                                                        ==========  ==========

                                                                              37
<PAGE>
 
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  Mortgages and bonds are secured by deeds of trust or mortgages on properties
and general assignments of rents. This debt matures at various dates through
2025 and, at December 31, 1997, bears interest at a weighted average effective
rate of 8.25%, including lender participations. At December 31, 1997,
approximately $481,997,000 of this debt provides for payments of additional
interest based on operating results of the related properties in excess of
stated levels and approximately $170,424,000 of this debt provides for payments
to lenders of shares of the appreciation in value of the related properties, if
any, upon sale or refinancing or at maturity. At December 31, 1997,
approximately $940,394,000 of the mortgages and bonds were payable to one
lender.

  The convertible subordinated debentures bear interest at 5.75% and mature in
2002. The debentures are convertible at the option of holders into one share of
common stock for each $28.63 of par value and are redeemable at the option of
the Company at any time at a price equal to par value plus accrued interest.

  The Company has registered $150,000,000 of unsecured, medium-term notes which
may be issued to the public from time to time. The notes may be issued, subject
to market conditions, for varying terms (nine months to 30 years) and at fixed
or variable interest rates based on market indices at the time of issuance. The
notes outstanding at December 31, 1997, mature at various dates from 1998 to
2015, bear interest at a weighted average effective rate of 7.61% (including an
average rate of 6.74% on $38,800,000 of variable rate notes) and have a weighted
average maturity of 4.9 years.

  The Company has a line of credit from a group of commercial banks and other
lenders that provides for aggregate unsecured borrowings of up to $250,000,000.
The line of credit agreement expires in December 2000, subject to a one-year
renewal option.

  Other loans include $120,000,000 of 8.5% unsecured notes due in 2003, various
property acquisition loans and certain other borrowings. These loans include
aggregate unsecured borrowings of $208,019,000 and $209,705,000 at December 31,
1997 and 1996, respectively, and at December 31, 1997, bear interest at a
weighted average effective rate of 8.34%.

  The agreements relating to the medium-term notes, the line of credit, the 8.5%
unsecured notes and certain other loans impose limitations on the Company. The
most restrictive of these limit the Company's ability to incur additional debt
if it does not meet certain financial covenants relating to levels of debt, debt
service coverage, net worth and various other matters. The agreements also
impose restrictions on sale, lease and certain other transactions, subject to
various exclusions and limitations. These restrictions have not limited the
Company's normal business activities.

  The annual maturities of debt at December 31, 1997 are summarized as follows
(in thousands):

                                       Nonrecourse   Company and
                                          Loans     Recourse Loans    Total
                                       -----------  --------------  ----------

1998.................................   $   46,842        $ 23,296  $   70,138
1999.................................      113,341          78,162     191,503
2000.................................      142,120          45,138     187,258
2001.................................      162,660          40,190     202,850
2002.................................      144,496         154,811     299,307
Subsequent to 2002...................    1,475,997         202,496   1,678,493
                                        ----------        --------  ----------
 Total                                  $2,085,456        $544,093  $2,629,549
                                        ==========        ========  ==========

  At December 31, 1997, the Company had interest rate cap agreements which
effectively limit the average interest rate on $71,138,000 of mortgages to 8.9%
through May 2002. The interest rate swap agreements outstanding at December 31,
1997 were not material. Interest rate exchange agreements did not have a
material effect on the weighted average effective interest rates on debt at
December 31, 1997 and 1996 or interest expense for 1997, 1996 and 1995.

  Total interest costs were $231,098,000 in 1997, $230,960,000 in 1996, and
$219,838,000 in 1995 of which $23,608,000, $10,579,000 and $6,875,000 were
capitalized, respectively.

  During 1997, 1996 and 1995, the Company incurred extraordinary losses, related
to extinguishments of debt prior to scheduled maturity, of $32,834,000,
$2,236,000 and $13,278,000, respectively, less related deferred income tax
benefits of $11,492,000, $783,000 and $4,647,000, respectively. The sources of
funds used to pay the debt and fund the prepayment penalties, where applicable,
were refinancings of properties, the Series B Preferred stock 

38
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

issued in 1997, the medium-term notes and the Company-obligated mandatorily
redeemable preferred securities issued in 1995 and the 8.5% unsecured notes
issued in 1993.

  In May 1997, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants issued
Statement of Position 97-1 "Accounting by Participating Mortgage Loan
Borrowers." This Statement prescribes borrowers' accounting for participating
mortgage loans and requires, among other things, that borrowers recognize
liabilities for the estimated fair value of lenders' participations in the
appreciation in value (if any) of mortgaged real estate projects and record such
participations as interest over the term of the related loans. The Statement is
effective with respect to the Company in 1998. The Company has not previously
recognized lenders' participations in the appreciation in value of mortgaged
properties and, accordingly, it will recognize the cumulative effect of
initially adopting the Statement in its statement of operations for the first
quarter of 1998. The cumulative effect of initial adoption of the Statement will
be to increase liabilities and reduce net earnings by approximately $4,500,000.
Ongoing application of the Statement will result in changes in interest expense
and liabilities to lenders reported in the financial statements; however,
because of the unpredictability of the timing and magnitude of changes in
property values, it is not possible to estimate the timing, amount or direction
of these changes.

  The estimated fair value of debt is determined based on quoted market prices
for publicly-traded debt and on the discounted estimated future cash payments to
be made for other debt. The discount rates used approximate current market rates
for loans or groups of loans with similar maturities and credit quality. The
estimated future payments include scheduled principal and interest payments,
cash flows under interest rate exchange agreements, where applicable, and
lenders' participations in operating results and residual values of the related
properties, where applicable.

  The carrying amount and estimated fair value of the Company's debt at December
31, 1997 and 1996 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
                                  1997                    1996
                         ---------------------   ----------------------
                          Carrying   Estimated    Carrying   Estimated
                           Amount    Fair Value    Amount    Fair Value
                         ---------   ----------  ---------   ----------

Fixed rate debt........  $2,390,590  $2,528,215  $2,405,382  $2,466,854
Variable rate debt.....     238,959     238,959     429,864     429,864
                         ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
                         $2,629,549  $2,767,174  $2,835,246  $2,896,718
                         ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========


  Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, are subjective in
nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment. Settlement
of the Company's debt obligations at fair value may not be possible and may not
be a prudent management decision.

(9) Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred securities

The redeemable preferred securities consist of 5,500,000 Cumulative Quarterly
Income Preferred Securities (preferred securities), with a liquidation amount of
$25 per security, which were issued in November 1995 by a statutory business
trust. The trust used the proceeds of the preferred securities and other assets
to purchase at par $141,753,000 of junior subordinated debentures (debentures)
of the Company due in November 2025, which are the sole assets of the trust.

  Payments to be made by the trust on the preferred securities are dependent on
payments that the Company has undertaken to make, particularly the payments to
be made by the Company on the debentures. Compliance by the Company with its
undertakings, taken together, would have the effect of providing a full,
irrevocable and unconditional guarantee of the trust's obligations under the
preferred securities.

  Distributions on the preferred securities are payable from interest payments
received on the debentures and are due quarterly at a rate of 9.25% of the
liquidation amount, subject to deferral for up to five years under certain
conditions. Distributions payable are included in operating expenses.
Redemptions of the preferred securities are payable at the liquidation amount
from redemption payments received on the debentures.

  The Company may redeem the debentures at par at any time after November 27,
2000, but redemptions at or prior to maturity are payable only from the proceeds
of issuance of capital stock of the Company or of securities substantially
comparable in economic effect to the preferred securities.

                                                                              39
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(10) Operating results and assets by line of business   
                                  
Operating results before gain (loss) on dispositions of assets and other
provisions, net, income taxes, extraordinary losses and cumulative effect of
change in accounting principle are summarized by line of business as follows (in
thousands):
                                             1997         1996         1995
                                           ----------   ----------   ----------

Operating properties:
 Revenues................................ $  722,390   $  690,569   $  636,646
 Operating expenses, exclusive of
  provision for bad debts, depreciation
  and amortization.......................    362,309      345,863      313,525
 Interest expense........................    204,230      205,750      197,249
 Provision for bad debts.................      5,766        3,688        3,318
 Depreciation and amortization...........     86,009       79,990       73,062
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------
                                              64,076       55,278       49,492
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------

Land sales:
 Revenues................................    203,219      137,853       33,403
 Operating costs and expenses............    151,800      107,787       17,827
 Interest expense........................      4,287        1,658        5,071
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------
                                              47,132       28,408       10,505
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------

Development:
 Operating costs and expenses............      4,747        4,964        7,288
 Interest expense........................         --          361          358
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------
                                              (4,747)      (5,325)      (7,646)
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------

Corporate:
 Interest income.........................      4,485        3,495        2,772
 Interest expense (credit)...............     (1,027)      12,612       10,285
 Other expenses..........................     13,384        9,752        8,920
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------
                                              (7,872)     (18,869)     (16,433)
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------
 Operating income........................ $   98,589   $   59,492   $   35,918
                                          ==========   ==========   ==========

 The assets by line of business at December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 are
as follows (in thousands):
                                             1997         1996         1995
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------
Operating properties....................  $2,895,417   $3,084,445   $2,656,527
Land sales..............................     335,400      308,014      141,275
Development.............................     232,358      178,076       63,732
Corporate...............................     126,593       72,917      124,075
                                          ----------   ----------   ----------
 Total..................................  $3,589,768   $3,643,452   $2,985,609
                                          ==========   ==========   ==========


40
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(11) Income taxes

Income tax expense (benefit) is reconciled to the amount computed by applying
the Federal corporate tax rate as follows (in thousands):

                                                 1997        1996      1995
                                              ---------   ---------  --------

Tax at statutory rate on earnings
 before income taxes, extraordinary losses
 and cumulative effect of change in
 accounting principle........................ $  25,839   $  15,262  $  3,560
State income taxes, net of Federal income
 tax benefit.................................     3,147       1,023       759
Nondeductible portion of distributions
 under Contingent Stock Agreement............    13,381       9,434        --
Reduction of net deferred tax liabilities....  (158,433)         --        --
                                              ---------   ---------  --------
Income tax expense (benefit)................. $(116,066)  $  25,719  $  4,319
                                              =========   =========  ========

  As discussed in note 1, the Company will elect to be taxed as a REIT beginning
in 1998. Management believes that the Company met the qualifications for REIT
status as of December 31, 1997, intends for it to continue to meet the
qualifications in the future and does not expect the Company will be liable for
income taxes or taxes on "built-in gains" on its assets at the Federal level or
in most states in future years. Accordingly, the Company eliminated
substantially all of its existing deferred tax assets and liabilities at
December 31, 1997 and does not expect to provide for Federal or most state
deferred income taxes in future years.

  The net deferred tax liability at December 31, 1996 is summarized as follows
(in thousands):

Total deferred tax liabilities.................................   $355,182
Total deferred tax assets......................................    220,388
                                                                  --------
  Net deferred tax liability...................................   $134,794
                                                                  ========

  The tax effects of temporary differences and carryforwards included in the net
deferred tax liability at December 31, 1996 relate to the following (in
thousands):
 
Property, primarily differences in depreciation and
  amortization, the tax basis of acquired assets and
  treatment of interest and certain other costs................   $329,413
Accounts and notes receivable, primarily
  differences in timing of recognition of rent
  revenues and doubtful receivables............................      4,368
Accrued expenses, primarily differences in timing of
  recognition of interest, compensation and pension
  expenses.....................................................      4,296
Operating loss and tax credit carryforwards....................   (203,283)
                                                                  --------
  Total........................................................   $134,794
                                                                  ========

  At December 31, 1997, the income tax bases of the Company's assets and
liabilities were approximately $3,036,000 and $2,969,000, respectively. The net
operating losses carried forward from December 31, 1997 for Federal income tax
purposes aggregate approximately $281,000,000.

  In connection with its election to be taxed as a REIT, the Company will also
elect to be subject to the "built-in gain" rules. Under these rules, taxes may
be payable at the time and to the extent that the net unrealized gains on the
Company's assets at the date of conversion to REIT status are recognized in
taxable dispositions of such assets in the ten-year period following conversion.
Such net unrealized gains were approximately $2,100,000,000 at January 1, 1998.
Management believes that the Company will not be required to make payments of
taxes on built-in gains during the ten-year period due to the availability of
its net operating loss carryforward to offset built-in gains which might be
recognized, the potential for the Company to make nontaxable dispositions, if
necessary (e.g., like-kind exchanges of properties) and the 



                                                                              41
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

intent and ability of the Company to defer asset dispositions to periods when
related gains will not be subject to the built-in gains taxes. At December 31,
1997, the net operating loss carryforward is sufficient to offset built-in gains
on assets the Company has identified for disposition and no net deferred tax
liability for built-in gains taxes has been recognized. It may be necessary to
recognize a liability for such taxes in the future, however, if management's
plans and intentions with respect to asset dispositions, or the related tax
laws, change.

(12) Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets and other provisions, net

Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets and other provisions, net, is summarized
as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                        1997       1996       1995
                                      --------   --------   --------
<S>                                   <C>        <C>        <C> 
Net loss on operating properties..... $(23,705)  $(25,903)  $(13,210)
Litigation judgment..................       --      8,716    (12,321)
Other, net...........................   (1,058)     1,300       (218)
                                      --------   --------   --------
 Total                                $(24,763)  $(15,887)  $(25,749)
                                      ========   ========   ========
</TABLE> 
  The net loss on operating properties in 1997 relates primarily to provisions
for losses recognized on several retail centers, an industrial property and a
hotel the Company decided to sell, including additional provisions of $3,653,000
related to retail centers held for disposition prior to 1997. These provisions
were partially offset by gains on dispositions of five office buildings
($4,704,000).

  The net loss on operating properties in 1996 relates primarily to provisions
for losses recognized on five retail centers the Company decided to sell.

  The net loss on operating properties in 1995 relates primarily to provisions
for losses recognized on four retail centers the Company decided to sell
($15,589,000). These provisions were partially offset by a gain on disposition
of a retail center ($2,379,000).

  The litigation judgment relates to a matter involving a former tenant at the
Riverwalk Shopping Center. In the fourth quarter of 1995, an appellate court
substantially affirmed a trial court judgment against the Company and certain of
its affiliates in an action in which the former tenant alleged various breaches
of its lease agreement and claimed damages for lost future profits. The Company
recorded a provision for the full amount of the appellate award at that time. In
1996, a portion of the provision recorded in 1995 was reversed following
settlement of the matter.

(13) Preferred stock

The Company has authorized 50,000,000 shares of Preferred stock of 1c par value
per share of which (a) 4,505,168 shares have been classified as Series A
Convertible Preferred; (b) 4,600,000 shares have been classified as Series B
Convertible Preferred, (c) 10,000,000 shares have been classified as Increasing
Rate Cumulative Preferred; and (d) 37,362 shares have been classified as 10.25%
Junior Preferred, Series 1996.

  The Company sold 4,050,000 shares of the Series B Convertible Preferred stock
in a public offering in the first quarter of 1997. The shares have a liquidation
preference of $50 per share and earn dividends at an annual rate of 6% of the
liquidation preference. At the option of the holders, each share of the Series B
Convertible Preferred stock is convertible into shares of the Company's common
stock at a conversion rate of approximately 1.311 shares of common stock for
each share of Preferred stock, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances.
In addition, beginning April 1, 2000, the shares of Preferred stock are
redeemable for shares of common stock at the option of the Company, subject to
certain conditions.

  The Company sold 4,025,000 shares of the Series A Convertible Preferred stock
in a public offering in 1993 and issued 480,168 shares in 1994 in connection
with a modification of terms of a debt agreement related to a retail center. The
shares of Series A Convertible Preferred stock had a liquidation preference of
$50 per share and earned dividends at an annual rate of 6.5% of the liquidation
preference. Each share was convertible into shares of the Company's common stock
at a conversion rate of approximately 2.35 shares of common stock for each share
of Preferred stock, subject to certain conditions. On September 30, 1996, the
Company redeemed all of the then outstanding shares of Series A Convertible
Preferred stock. In 1996 and 1995, the Company issued 10,598,721 and 75 shares,
respectively, of common stock in exchange for 4,504,579 and 32 shares,
respectively, of Series A Convertible Preferred stock.



42
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Shares of the Increasing Rate Cumulative Preferred stock are issuable only to
former Hughes owners or their successors pursuant to the Contingent Stock
Agreement described in note 14. These shares are issuable only in limited
circumstances and no shares have been issued. There were also no shares of
10.25% Junior Preferred stock, Series 1996, outstanding at December 31, 1997 and
1996.

(14) Common stock

At December 31, 1997, shares of authorized and unissued common stock are
reserved as follows: (a) 18,978,858 shares for issuance under the Contingent
Stock Agreement discussed below; (b) 7,940,643 shares for issuance under the
Company's stock option and stock bonus plans; (c) 4,541,485 shares for
conversion of the convertible subordinated debentures; and (d) 5,309,955 shares
for conversion of the Series B Convertible Preferred stock.

  In connection with the acquisition of Hughes, the Company entered into a
Contingent Stock Agreement for the benefit of the former Hughes owners or their
successors (the beneficiaries). Under terms of the agreement, additional shares
of common stock (or in certain circumstances, Increasing Rate Cumulative
Preferred stock) are issuable to the beneficiaries based on the appraised values
of four defined groups of assets acquired in the purchase of Hughes at specified
"termination dates" from 2000 to 2009 and/or cash flows generated from the
development and/or sale of those assets prior to the termination dates (the
"earnout periods"). The distributions of additional shares, based on cash flows,
are payable semiannually as of June 30 and December 31 and, at December 31,
1997, a distribution of approximately 495,000 shares ($15,736,000) was payable
to the beneficiaries. The Contingent Stock Agreement is, in substance, an
arrangement under which the Company and the beneficiaries will share in cash
flows from development and/or sale of the defined assets during their respective
earnout periods and the Company will issue additional shares of common stock to
the beneficiaries based on the value, if any, of the defined asset groups at the
termination dates. The Company accounts for the beneficiaries' share of earnings
from the assets subject to the Contingent Stock Agreement as an operating
expense and will account for any distributions to the beneficiaries as of the
termination dates as an additional cost to acquire the related assets (i.e.,
contingent consideration). At the time of acquisition of Hughes, the Company
reserved 20,000,000 shares of common stock for possible issuance under the
Contingent Stock Agreement. The number of shares reserved was determined based
on conservative estimates in accordance with the provisions of the Agreement.
The actual number of shares issuable will be determinable only from events
occurring over the term of the Agreement and could differ significantly from the
number of shares reserved.

  Under the Company's stock option plans, options to purchase shares of common
stock and stock appreciation rights may be awarded to directors, officers and
employees. Stock options are generally granted with an exercise price equal to
the market price of the common stock on the date of grant, typically vest over a
three- to five-year period, subject to certain conditions, and have a maximum
term of ten years. The Company has not granted any stock appreciation rights.
Changes in options outstanding under the plans are summarized as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
                                    1997                1996                 1995
                             ------------------  ------------------  ---------------------
                                     Weighted-           Weighted-              Weighted-
                                      average             average                average
                                     Exercise            Exercise               Exercise
                             Shares    Price     Shares    Price     Shares      Price
                           ------------------  ------------------  ---------------------
<S>                        <C>         <C>     <C>         <C>     <C>         <C>
Balance at beginning of
 year...................   2,765,779   $20.18  2,227,400   $19.89  2,228,102      $19.68 
Options granted.........   2,155,901    30.45    654,000    21.09    200,500       18.63 
Options exercised.......    (239,942)   20.16    (87,371)   18.61   (179,452)       5.36 
Options canceled........     (11,600)   28.76    (28,250)   22.82    (21,750)      24.41 
                           ---------   ------  ---------   ------  ---------      ------ 
 Balance at end of year    4,670,138   $24.90  2,765,779   $20.18  2,227,400      $19.89
                           =========   ======  =========   ======  =========      ======
</TABLE>


                                                                              43
<PAGE>
 
  Information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 1997 is summarized
as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                        Options Outstanding                         Options Exercisable
- -------------------------------------------------------------    --------------------------
                                  Weighted-
     Range of                      average        Weighted-                   Weighted-
     Exercise                     Remaining       average                      average
      Prices           Shares    Life (Years)  Exercise Price     Shares     Exercise Price
- -----------------    ---------   ------------  --------------    ---------   --------------
<S>                  <C>        <C>            <C>               <C>         <C>
$13.50 to $19.875    1,814,837         6.5           $18.52        908,444        $17.96
$23.75 to $32.75     2,855,301         7.9            28.96        686,261         25.18
                     ---------         ---           ------      ---------        ------
                     4,670,138         7.4           $24.90      1,594,705        $21.07
                     =========         ===           ======      =========        ======
</TABLE>

  At December 31, 1996 and 1995, options to purchase 1,449,844 and 1,229,000
shares, respectively, were exercisable at per share weighted-average prices of
$20.84 and $21.50, respectively.

  The per share weighted-average estimated fair values of options granted during
1997, 1996 and 1995 were $8.34, $5.44 and $5.24, respectively. These fair values
were estimated on the dates of each grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing
model with the following assumptions:

                                                   1997        1996       1995
                                                 --------    --------   --------
Risk-free interest rate.......................      6.0%        6.0%       7.2%
Dividend yield................................      3.5         4.0        4.0
Volatility factor.............................     28.0        28.0       28.0
Expected life (years).........................      6.9         7.0        7.0
                                                   ====        ====       ====  

  The option prices were equal to the market prices at the date of grant for all
of the options granted in 1997, 1996 and 1995 and, accordingly, no compensation
cost has been recognized for stock options in the financial statements. If the
Company had applied a fair value-based method to recognize compensation cost for
stock options, net earnings (loss) and earnings (loss) per share of common stock
would have been adjusted as indicated below (in thousands):
 
                                                   1997        1996       1995
                                                 --------    --------   --------
Net earnings (loss):
 As reported..................................   $167,336    $16,433    $(2,781)
 Pro forma....................................    164,445     15,397     (3,036)
Earnings (loss) per share of common stock:
 Basic:
  As reported.................................       2.36        .10       (.37)
  Pro forma...................................       2.32        .08       (.38)
 Diluted:
  As reported.................................       2.29        .09       (.37)
  Pro forma...................................       2.25        .08       (.38)
                                                 ========    =======    =======

  The pro forma amounts reflect only options granted after 1994. Therefore, the
full impact of calculating compensation cost for stock options under a fair
value-based method is not reflected in the pro forma amounts because
compensation cost is reflected over the options' vesting periods and
compensation cost for options granted prior to January 1, 1995 is not required
to be considered.

  Under the Company's stock bonus plans, shares of common stock may be awarded
to officers and employees. Shares awarded under the plans are typically subject
to forfeiture restrictions which lapse at defined annual rates. Awards granted
in 1997, 1996 and 1995 aggregated 49,000, 415,000 and 200,000 shares,
respectively, with a weighted average market value per share of $31.25, $20.99
and $18.63, respectively. In connection with the stock bonus plan awards, the
Company typically makes loans to the recipients for the payment of related
income taxes, which loans are forgiven in installments subject to the
recipients' continued employment. The total loans outstanding at December 31,
1997, 1996 and 1995 were $5,710,000, $6,565,000 and $3,829,000, respectively.
The Company recognizes amortization of the fair 


44
<PAGE>
 
value of the stock awarded, any forgiven loan installments and certain related
costs as compensation costs on a straight-line basis over the terms of the
awards. Such costs amounted to $6,807,000 in 1997, $4,923,000 in 1996 and
$2,763,000 in 1995.

(15) Earnings per share     

Information relating to the calculations of earnings (loss) per share of common
stock for 1997, 1996 and 1995 is summarized as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
 
                                                            1997                    1996                    1995
                                                   -------------------     -------------------     -------------------
                                                     Basic     Diluted       Basic     Diluted       Basic     Diluted
                                                   --------   --------     --------   --------     --------   --------
      <S>                                          <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>          <C>        <C> 
      Earnings before extraordinary losses                                                    
         and cumulative effect of change                                                      
         in accounting principle...............    $189,892   $189,892     $ 17,886   $ 17,886     $  5,850   $  5,850
      Dividends on Preferred stock.............     (10,313)        --      (10,533)   (10,533)     (14,641)   (14,641)
      Dividends on unvested common stock                                                      
         awards................................        (632)      (552)        (659)      (659)        (369)      (369)
      Interest on convertible                                                                 
         subordinated debentures...............          --      7,475           --         --           --         --
                                                   --------   --------     --------   --------     --------   --------
         Adjusted earnings (loss) before                                                      
           extraordinary losses and                                                           
           cumulative effect of change                                                        
           in accounting principle used                                                       
           in EPS computation..................    $178,947   $196,815     $  6,694   $  6,694     $ (9,160)  $ (9,160)
                                                   ========   ========     ========   ========     ========   ========
      Weighted-average shares outstanding......      66,201     66,201       54,913     54,913       47,375     47,375
      Dilutive securities:                                                                    
         Convertible subordinated debentures...          --      4,542           --         --           --         --
         Convertible Preferred stock...........          --      4,509           --         --           --         --
         Options, warrants and unvested                                                       
           common stock awards.................          --        753           --        398           --         --
                                                   --------   --------     --------   --------     --------   --------
         Adjusted weighted-average shares                                                     
           used in EPS computation.............      66,201     76,005       54,913     55,311       47,375     47,375
                                                   ========   ========     ========   ========     ========   ========
</TABLE>

Effects of potentially dilutive securities are presented only in periods in
which they are dilutive.

(16) Leases                   

The Company, as lessee, has entered into operating leases expiring at various
dates through 2076. Rents under such leases aggregated $9,147,000 in 1997,
$9,648,000 in 1996, and $9,421,000 in 1995, including contingent rents, based on
the operating performance of the related properties, of $3,158,000, $3,844,000,
and $3,644,000, respectively. In addition, real estate taxes, insurance and
maintenance expenses are obligations of the Company. Minimum rent payments due
under operating leases in effect at December 31, 1997 are summarized as follows
(in thousands):


1998................................................................   $  5,381
1999................................................................      5,357
2000................................................................      5,365
2001................................................................      5,374
2002................................................................      5,383
Subsequent to 2002..................................................    227,963
                                                                       --------
 Total..............................................................   $254,823
                                                                       ========


                                                                              45
<PAGE>
PAGE>
 
  Obligations under capital leases relate to the Company's headquarters building
and certain operating properties and equipment. The property and other asset
accounts include costs of $58,550,000 and $67,866,000 and accumulated
depreciation of $17,123,000 and $19,780,000 at December 31, 1997 and 1996,
respectively, related to these leases. Minimum rent payments due under capital
leases and their present value at December 31, 1997 are summarized as follows
(in thousands):

1998...............................................................   $   7,828
1999...............................................................       7,649
2000...............................................................       7,621
2001...............................................................       7,350
2002...............................................................       7,237
Subsequent to 2002.................................................     180,948
                                                                      ---------
                                                                        218,633
Imputed interest at rates ranging from 8.29% to 13.0%..............    (164,042)
                                                                      ---------

  Obligations under capital leases.................................   $  54,591
                                                                      =========

  Space in the Company's operating properties is leased to approximately 5,800
tenants. In addition to minimum rents, the majority of the retail center leases
provide for percentage rents when the tenants' sales volumes exceed stated
amounts, and the majority of the retail center and office leases provide for
other rents which reimburse the Company for certain of its operating expenses.
Rents from tenants are summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
                                                 1997        1996         1995
                                               --------    --------     --------
Minimum rents..............................    $387,488    $355,656     $317,377
Percentage rents...........................      14,999      14,830       15,362
Other rents................................     213,005     216,589      209,809
                                               --------    --------     --------

  Total....................................    $615,492    $587,075     $542,548
                                               ========    ========     ========

  Minimum rents to be received from tenants under operating leases in effect at
December 31, 1997 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
1998...............................................................   $  313,655
1999...............................................................      281,697
2000...............................................................      255,649
2001...............................................................      216,647
2002...............................................................      182,797
Subsequent to 2002.................................................      567,089
                                                                      ----------

  Total............................................................   $1,817,534
                                                                      ==========

  Rents under finance leases aggregated $9,316,000 in 1997, $9,645,000 in 1996,
and $8,780,000 in 1995. The net investment in finance leases at December 31,
1997 and 1996 is summarized as follows (in thousands):

                                                             1997        1996
                                                           --------    --------
Total minimum rent payments to be received                     
 over lease terms.......................................   $166,706    $178,275
Estimated residual values of leased properties..........      5,695       7,567
Unearned income.........................................    (83,237)    (90,966)
                                                           --------    --------

  Net investment in finance leases......................   $ 89,164    $ 94,876
                                                           ========    ========

  Minimum rent payments to be received from tenants under finance leases in
effect at December 31, 1997 are $9,332,000, $9,304,000, $9,365,000, $10,190,000
and $10,164,000 for 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002, respectively.


46
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(17) Other commitments and contingencies      
                            
Commitments for the construction and development of properties in the ordinary
course of business and other commitments not set forth elsewhere amount to
approximately $111,000,000 at December 31, 1997.

At December 31, 1997, subsidiaries of the Company have contingent liabilities of
approximately $25,211,000 with respect to future minimum rents under long-term
lease obligations of certain unconsolidated real estate ventures and
approximately $12,742,000 with respect to bank letters of credit issued to
secure their obligations under certain agreements. In addition, the Company had
contingent liabilities with respect to debt of an unconsolidated real estate
venture of approximately $19,695,000.

In February 1997, the Company registered to sell up to an aggregate of
$500,000,000 (based on the public offering price) of common stock, Preferred
stock and debt securities. At December 31, 1997, up to an aggregate of
$297,500,000 of stock and/or debt may be issued pursuant to this registration in
amounts and on terms to be determined at the time of offering.

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are defendants in various litigation
matters arising in the ordinary course of business, some of which involve claims
for damages that are substantial in amount. Some of these litigation matters are
covered by insurance. In the opinion of management, adequate provision has been
made for losses with respect to litigation matters, where appropriate, and the
ultimate resolution of such litigation matters is not likely to have a material
effect on the consolidated financial position of the Company. Due to the
Company's fluctuating net earnings (loss), it is not possible to predict whether
the resolution of these matters is likely to have a material effect on the
Company's consolidated net earnings (loss) and it is, therefore, possible that
the resolution of these matters could have such an effect in any future quarter
or year.


                                                                              47
<PAGE>
 
FIVE YEAR COMPARISON OF SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Year ended December 31 (in thousands, except per share data)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    1997        1996         1995         1994         1993
                                                                ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------    ----------
<S>                                                             <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Operating results data:
 Revenues from continuing operations........................    $  930,094   $  831,917   $  672,821   $  671,171   $  646,805
 Earnings (loss) from continuing operations.................       189,892       17,886        5,850        6,606       (1,291)
 Basic earnings (loss) from continuing operations
  applicable to common shareholders per share
  of common stock...........................................          2.70          .13         (.19)        (.14)        (.27)
 Diluted earnings (loss) from continuing operations
  applicable to common shareholders per share
  of common stock...........................................          2.59          .12         (.19)        (.14)        (.27)
Balance sheet data:
 Total assets...............................................     3,589,768    3,643,452    2,985,609    2,915,860    2,874,982
 Debt and capital leases....................................     2,684,140    2,895,447    2,538,315    2,532,920    2,473,596
 Shareholders' equity.......................................       465,515      177,149       42,584       95,026      113,151
 Shareholders' equity per share of common
  stock (note 1)............................................          6.45         2.65          .73         1.63         1.98
Other selected data:
 Earnings before depreciation and deferred taxes
  from operations (note 2)..................................       181,390      139,359      108,360       94,710       78,281
 Net cash provided (used) by:
  Operating activities......................................       185,516      168,126      107,001      113,775      101,149
  Investing activities......................................      (322,479)    (182,995)     (64,995)    (178,551)    (154,446)
  Financing activities......................................       180,297      (36,287)       3,518       40,618       47,068
 Dividends per share of common stock........................          1.00          .88          .80          .68          .62
 Dividends per share of convertible Preferred stock.........          2.65         2.44         3.25         3.25         2.83
 Market price per share of common stock
  at year end...............................................         32.75        31.75        20.13        19.25        17.75
 Market price per share of convertible Preferred
  stock at year end.........................................         50.50           --        51.63        48.50        53.75
 Weighted average common shares
  outstanding (basic).......................................        66,201       54,913       47,375       47,258       47,133
 Weighted average common shares
  outstanding (diluted).....................................        76,005       55,311       47,375       47,258       47,133
</TABLE>

Note 1--For the year ended December 31, 1997, shareholders' equity per share of
        common stock assumes conversion of the Series B Convertible Preferred
        stock issued in 1997. For the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and
        1993, shareholders' equity per share of common stock assumes the
        conversion of the Series A Convertible Preferred stock. The Series A
        Convertible Preferred Stock was issued in 1993 and redeemed for common
        stock in 1996.

Note 2--Earnings before depreciation and deferred taxes (EBDT) is not a measure
        of operating results or cash flows from operating activities as defined
        by generally accepted accounting principles. Additionally, EBDT is not
        necessarily indicative of cash available to fund cash needs, including
        the payment of dividends, and should not be considered as an alternative
        to cash flows as a measure of liquidity. See the "Earnings Before
        Depreciation and Deferred Taxes" section of Management's Discussion and
        Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations on page 54 for
        a full discussion of EBDT.


48
<PAGE>
 
Interim Financial Information (Unaudited)
Interim consolidated results of operations are summarized as follows (in
thousands, except per share data):
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                Quarter ended
                                                 -------------------------------------------
                                                 December   September     June       March
                                                 31, 1997    30, 1997   30, 1997    31, 1997
                                                 --------   ---------   --------    --------
<S>                                              <C>        <C>        <C>         <C>
Revenues.......................................  $244,555    $231,769   $242,729    $211,041
Operating income...............................    29,103      27,781     25,417      16,288
Earnings (loss) before extraordinary losses....   162,086      16,271      3,125       8,410
Net earnings (loss)............................   151,852      16,164     (6,961)      6,281
                                                 ========    ========   ========    ========
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
 Earnings (loss) before extraordinary losses...  $   2.40    $    .20   $     --    $    .10
 Extraordinary losses..........................      (.14)         --       (.15)       (.03)
 Cumulative effect of accounting change........      (.02)         --         --          --
                                                 --------   ---------   --------    --------
     Total.....................................  $   2.24    $    .20   $   (.15)   $    .07
                                                 ========    ========   ========    ========
Diluted:
 Earnings (loss) before extraordinary losses...  $   2.12    $    .19   $     --    $    .10
 Extraordinary losses..........................      (.11)         --       (.15)       (.03)
 Cumulative effect of accounting change........      (.02)         --         --          --
                                                 --------   ---------   --------    --------
     Total.....................................  $   1.99    $    .19   $   (.15)   $    .07
                                                 ========    ========   ========    ========
<CAPTION>
                                                               Quarter ended
                                                 ------------------------------------------
                                                 December    September    June        March
                                                 31, 1996    30, 1996   30, 1996    31, 1996
                                                 --------    --------   --------    --------
<S>                                              <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>
Revenues.......................................  $252,044    $227,675   $179,050    $173,148
Operating income...............................    25,796      11,477     11,061      11,158
Earnings (loss) before extraordinary losses....     7,291      (2,456)     6,308       6,743
Net earnings (loss)............................     7,199      (2,502)     6,308       5,428
                                                 ========    ========   ========    ========
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic:
 Earnings (loss) before extraordinary losses...  $    .11    $   (.10)  $    .05    $    .06
 Extraordinary losses..........................        --          --         --        (.03)
 Cumulative effect of accounting change........        --          --         --          --
                                                 --------    --------   --------    --------
     Total.....................................  $    .11    $   (.10)  $    .05    $    .03
                                                 ========    ========   ========    ========
Diluted:
 Earnings (loss) before extraordinary losses...  $    .11    $   (.10)  $    .05    $    .06
 Extraordinary losses..........................        --          --         --        (.03)
 Cumulative effect of accounting change........        --          --         --          --
                                                 --------    --------   --------    --------
     Total.....................................  $    .11    $   (.10)  $    .05    $    .03
                                                 ========    ========   ========    ========
</TABLE>

Note--Net earnings for the fourth quarter of 1997 includes the effect of
      eliminating substantially all ($158,433,000) of the net deferred income
      tax liability ($2.39 per share basic, $2.05 per share diluted) due to the
      Company's determination to elect to be taxed as a REIT. Net earnings
      (loss) for the second and fourth quarters of 1997 include provisions for
      losses on operating properties of $8,964,000 ($.14 per share) and
      $8,229,000 ($.13 per share basic, $.10 per share diluted), respectively.
      Net earnings (loss) for the third and fourth quarters of 1996 include
      provisions for losses on dispositions of retail centers of $9,604,000
      ($.17 per share) and $6,196,000 ($.09 per share), respectively. The
      provision for loss in the third quarter of 1996 was partially offset by
      the reversal of a provision for a litigation matter of $5,665,000 ($.10
      per share).

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Price of Common Stock and Dividends
The Company's common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange. The prices
and dividends per share were as follows:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  Quarter ended
                               --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               December   September    June      March     December   September     June      March
                               31, 1997   30, 1997   30, 1997   31, 1997   31, 1996   30, 1996    30, 1996   31, 1996
                               --------   --------   --------   --------   --------   ---------   --------   --------
<S>                            <C>        <C>        <C>         <C>       <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>
High bid or sales price......   $33.00     $31.50     $29.50     $32.00     $32.25      $26.00     $27.38     $22.13
Low bid or sales price.......    27.25      28.44      25.75      28.88      25.00       24.38      20.38      18.25
Dividends....................      .25        .25        .25        .25        .22         .22        .22        .22
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of Holders of Common Stock
The number of holders of record of the Company's common stock as of February 17,
1998 was 2,204.


                                                                              49
<PAGE>
 
                       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries
               MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
                      CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

General

Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, the Company acquires, develops and/or
manages a diversified portfolio of retail centers, office and industrial
buildings and mixed-use and other properties located throughout the United
States and develops and sells land for residential, commercial and other uses,
primarily in Columbia, Maryland, and Summerlin, Nevada.

  In December 1997, the Company determined that it would elect to be taxed as a
real estate investment trust ("REIT") effective January 1, 1998 and, on December
31, 1997, completed certain transactions that enabled it to meet the
qualifications for REIT status. As a REIT, the Company will have greater
flexibility in acquisition and merger opportunities and expanded access to
capital markets and its corporate income taxes will be reduced in periods after
the use or expiration of its net operating loss carryforward.

  The Company has continued to achieve strong financial results in recent years,
despite the generally difficult environment for retail businesses. Earnings
before depreciation and deferred taxes ("EBDT"), which is defined and discussed
in detail below, increased 30% in 1997 and 29% in 1996, including increases of
11% in EBDT from operating properties in each year, and increases of 66% and
170%, respectively, in EBDT from land sales. These results have been made
possible by several factors, including the acquisition of The Hughes Corporation
and its affiliated partnership, Howard Hughes Properties, Limited Partnership
(together "Hughes") in June 1996, expansions of and/or acquisitions of ownership
interests in certain retail properties, higher occupancy levels in office
properties, refinancings of project-related debt at lower interest rates and, in
1997, repayments of certain project-related and corporate debt. These results
were also affected, to a lesser extent, by dispositions of properties which were
incurring losses before depreciation and deferred taxes.

  Management believes the outlook is for continued solid growth in EBDT in 1998.
The Company will continue to focus considerable effort and resources on leasing
and remerchandising existing retail centers which, together with the openings of
new projects and expansions, should result in a higher rate of EBDT growth from
retail properties in 1998 than that experienced in 1997 (3.2%). The prospects
for growth from office/mixed-use properties are excellent as the Company should
benefit from a full year of operations of projects opened in 1997, continued
strong occupancy levels and increasing rents in existing projects and the
openings of several new projects. Earnings from land sales should also remain
strong in 1998, assuming continued good market conditions in Columbia and
Summerlin.

  The Company's primary objective is to own and operate premier properties--
shopping centers, office and industrial buildings and major mixed-use
properties--in major markets across the United States. In order to achieve this
objective, management is continually evaluating the future outlook for
properties in the Company's portfolio. This includes considering opportunities
to expand and/or renovate the properties and assessing whether particular
properties are meeting or have the potential to meet the Company's investment
criteria. The Company plans to continue making substantial investments to
expand, renovate and/or add new department stores to its existing properties to
meet its objective. The Company has sold a number of properties over the last
several years and intends to continue to dispose of properties that are not
meeting and/or are not considered to have the potential to meet its investment
criteria. While disposition decisions may cause the Company to recognize gains
or losses that could have material effects on reported net earnings (loss) in
future quarters or fiscal years, they are not expected to have a material effect
on the consolidated financial position or operating income of the Company.


Operating results

This discussion and analysis of operating results covers each of the Company's
four business segments as management believes that a segment analysis provides
the most effective means of understanding the Company's business. Note 10 to the
consolidated financial statements and the information relating to revenues and
expenses in the Five Year Summary of Earnings Before Depreciation and Deferred
Taxes from Operations and Net Earnings (Loss) on page 58 should be referred to
when reading this discussion.

Operating Properties: The Company reports the results of its operating
properties in two categories: retail centers ("retail" properties) and office,
mixed-use and other properties ("office/mixed-use" properties).

  The Company's tenant leases provide the foundation for the performance of its
retail and office/mixed-use properties. In addition to minimum rents, the
majority of retail and office tenant leases provide for other rents which
reimburse the Company for most of its operat-

50
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ing expenses. Substantially all of the Company's retail leases also provide for
additional rent (percentage rent) based on tenant sales in excess of stated
levels. As leases expire, space is released, minimum rents are generally
adjusted to market rates, expense reimbursement provisions are updated and new
percentage rent levels are established for retail leases.

  Most of the Company's operating properties are financed with long term, fixed
rate, nonrecourse debt and, accordingly, their operating results are not
directly affected by changes in interest rates. Although the interest rates on
this debt do not fluctuate, certain loans provide for additional payments to the
lenders based on operating results of the related properties in excess of stated
levels and, in some instances, a share of the appreciation in value of the
related properties, if any, upon sale or refinancing or at maturity.

Operating results of retail properties are summarized as follows (in millions):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                    1997       1996       1995
                                                   ------     ------     ------
<S>                                                <C>        <C>        <C>
Revenues........................................   $503.6     $508.4     $491.7
Operating expenses, exclusive of
 depreciation and amortization..................    257.8      260.0      246.7
Interest expense................................    122.3      129.1      128.2
                                                   ------     ------     ------
                                                    123.5      119.3      116.8
Depreciation and amortization...................     51.2       50.1       45.9
                                                   ------     ------     ------
Operating income................................   $ 72.3     $ 69.2     $ 70.9
                                                   ======     ======     ======
</TABLE>

  Revenues from retail properties decreased $4.8 million in 1997 and increased
$16.7 million in 1996. The decrease in 1997 was attributable primarily to
dispositions of interests in properties in 1997 and 1996 and lower tenant lease
termination payments. These decreases were partially offset by the effects of
slightly higher average occupancy (90.8% in 1997 as compared to 90.2% in 1996),
the operations of two properties which were opened or expanded in 1997 and a
full year of operations of two properties in which the Company acquired
interests in 1996. The increase in 1996 was attributable primarily to
acquisitions of interests in four properties (two in the third quarter of 1995,
one in connection with the acquisition of Hughes in the second quarter of 1996
and one in the third quarter of 1996), increased lease termination payments due
to tenant restructurings and downsizings and higher rents on re-leased space.
These increases were partially offset by the effects of lower average occupancy
(90.2% in 1996 compared to 90.9% in 1995) and dispositions of interests in
properties in the second quarter of 1995 and first quarter of 1996.

  Total operating and interest expenses (exclusive of depreciation and
amortization) for retail properties decreased $9 million in 1997 and increased
$14.2 million in 1996. The decrease in 1997 was attributable primarily to the
dispositions of interests in properties referred to above and refinancings and
repayments of project-related debt. These decreases were partially offset by the
effects of a full year of operations of the properties in which the Company
acquired interests in 1996. The increase in 1996 was attributable primarily to
the net effect of the changes in the retail property portfolio referred to above
and reductions in interest expense due to debt repayments and refinancings
completed in 1995 and early 1996. Depreciation and amortization expense for
retail properties increased $1.1 million in 1997 and $4.2 million in 1996. These
changes were due primarily to the net effect of changes in the Company's
portfolio of retail properties referred to above.

 Operating results of office/mixed-use properties are summarized as follows (in
millions):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                    1997       1996       1995
                                                   ------     ------     ------
<S>                                                <C>        <C>        <C>
Revenues........................................   $218.7     $182.2     $145.0
Operating expenses, exclusive of
 depreciation and amortization..................    110.2       89.5       70.1
Interest expense................................     81.9       76.7       69.1
                                                   ------     ------     ------
                                                     26.6       16.0        5.8
Depreciation and amortization...................     34.8       29.9       27.2
                                                   ------     ------     ------
Operating loss..................................   $ (8.2)    $(13.9)    $(21.4)
                                                   ======     ======     ======
</TABLE>


                                                                              51
<PAGE>
 
  Revenues from office/mixed-use properties increased $36.5 million in 1997 and
$37.2 million in 1996. The increase in 1997 was attributable primarily to a full
year of operations of the properties acquired in the Hughes transaction,
openings of new office and other properties in Las Vegas and higher occupancy
levels at hotel and Columbia office properties. The increase in 1996 was
attributable primarily to operations of the properties acquired in the Hughes
transaction and higher occupancy levels at hotel and other office properties.
These increases were partially offset by decreases in tenant lease termination
payments and the disposition of a property in the second quarter of 1995.

  Total operating and interest expenses (exclusive of depreciation and
amortization) for office/mixed-use properties increased $25.9 million in 1997
and $27 million in 1996. The increase in 1997 was attributable primarily to a
full year of operations of the properties acquired in the Hughes transaction,
the effects of higher occupancy levels and the openings of new properties
referred to above. The increase in 1996 was attributable primarily to operations
of the properties acquired in the Hughes transaction and expenses associated
with higher occupancy levels. These increases were partially offset by the
dispositions of a vacant industrial property in the second quarter of 1996 and
an office property in the second quarter of 1995.

Land Sales: Land sales operations relate primarily to the communities of
Columbia, Maryland, and Summerlin, Nevada. Generally, revenues and operating
income from land sales are affected by such factors as the availability to
purchasers of construction and permanent mortgage financing at acceptable
interest rates, consumer and business confidence, availability of saleable land
for particular uses and management's decisions to sell, develop or retain land.

 Operating results from land sales are summarized as follows (in millions):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  1997                    1996
                       ------------------------  ------------------------
                                Columbia                  Columbia
                        Hughes    and            Hughes     and
                       Division  Other    Total  Division  Other    Total   1995
                       -------- -------- ------  -------- -------- ------  -----
<S>                    <C>       <C>     <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>     <C>
Revenues..............  $163.2   $40.0   $203.2   $98.4    $39.5   $137.9  $33.4
Operating costs and
expenses..............   130.0    21.8    151.8    83.4     24.4    107.8   17.8
Interest expense......      .5     3.8      4.3      .7      1.0      1.7    5.1
                        ------   -----   ------   -----    -----   ------  -----
Operating income......  $ 32.7   $14.4   $ 47.1   $14.3    $14.1   $ 28.4  $10.5
                        ======   =====   ======   =====    =====   ======  =====
</TABLE>

  Revenues and operating income from Hughes Division land sales for 1997 include
$128.8 million and $27.1 million, respectively, relating to Summerlin and $34.4
million and $5.6 million, respectively, relating to other land holdings.
Revenues and operating income from Hughes Division land sales for 1996 include
$93 million and $14.2 million, respectively, relating to Summerlin and $5.3
million and $.1 million, respectively, relating to other land holdings. The
increases in revenues and operating income in 1997 relating to Summerlin are
attributable primarily to a full year of operations of the Hughes Division. The
increase in operating income also reflects higher margins on sales, primarily
because land on which development was completed or in progress at the time of
the acquisition of Hughes (which carried lower profit margins) comprised a
smaller proportion of sales in 1997. The increases in revenues and operating
income in 1997 relating to other land holdings are attributable primarily to
sales of various investment land parcels, particularly holdings in Nevada.

  Revenues from land sales in Columbia increased $.5 million in 1997 and $6.1
million in 1996. The increase in 1996 was due primarily to higher sales of land
for commercial/other uses, partially offset by lower sales of residential land.

  Columbia and other land sales costs and expenses decreased $2.6 million in
1997 and increased $6.6 million in 1996. Expenses were higher in 1996 due to
higher land sales revenues and settlement costs and broker commissions related
to sales of land for commercial/other uses.

52
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Development: Development expenses were $4.7 million in 1997, $5.3 million in
1996 and $7.6 million in 1995. These costs consist primarily of additions to the
preconstruction reserve and new business costs.

  The preconstruction reserve is determined on a project-by-project basis and is
maintained to provide for costs of projects in the preconstruction phase of
development, including retail property renovation and expansion opportunities,
which may not go forward to completion. Additions to the preconstruction reserve
were $2.8 million in 1997, $2.7 million in 1996 and $3.8 million in 1995. New
business costs relate primarily to the initial evaluation of potential
acquisition and development opportunities. These costs were $1.9 million in
1997, $1.8 million in 1996 and $3.5 million in 1995. The lower levels of
preconstruction reserve additions in 1997 and 1996 were due to the progress of
several significant retail center projects. The lower levels of new business
costs in 1997 and 1996 were attributable to the Company's focus on development
projects and, in 1996, the Hughes acquisition, which reduced evaluation of other
opportunities.

Corporate: Corporate revenues consist primarily of interest income earned on
temporary investments, including investments of unallocated proceeds from
refinancings of certain properties. Corporate interest income was $4.5 million
in 1997, $3.5 million in 1996 and $2.8 million in 1995. The changes in income
during these years were attributable primarily to changes in the average
investment balances, including in 1997 temporary investment of the unused
proceeds of the Series B Convertible Preferred stock issued in the first
quarter.

  Corporate expenses consist of certain interest and operating expenses, as
discussed below, reduced by costs capitalized or allocated to other business
segments. Interest is capitalized on corporate funds invested in projects under
development, and interest on corporate borrowings and distributions on the
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred securities which are used for
other segments are allocated to those segments. Accordingly, corporate interest
expense consists primarily of interest on the convertible subordinated
debentures, the unsecured 8.5% notes and unallocated proceeds from refinancings
of certain properties, net of interest capitalized on development projects or
allocated to other segments, and corporate operating expenses consist primarily
of general and administrative costs and distributions on the redeemable
preferred securities, net of distributions allocated to other segments.

  Corporate interest costs were $13.9 million in 1997, $18 million in 1996 and
$14 million in 1995. Interest of $14.9 million, $5.4 million and $3.7 million
was capitalized in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, on funds invested in
development projects. The decrease in corporate interest costs in 1997 was
attributable primarily to allocations of debt to other segments to fund certain
capital expenditures. The increase in corporate interest costs in 1996 was
attributable primarily to a higher level of credit line borrowings for
development projects and for other corporate purposes. The higher level of
interest capitalized in 1997 and 1996 reflects the higher level of corporate
funds invested in projects under development.

Gain (Loss) on Dispositions of Assets and Other Provisions, Net: The loss on
dispositions of assets and other provisions, net, for 1997 consisted primarily
of provisions for losses recognized on several retail properties, an industrial
property and a hotel the Company decided to sell, including additional
provisions of $3.7 million related to retail properties held for disposition
prior to 1997. These provisions were partially offset by gains on dispositions
of five office properties ($4.7 million).

  The loss on dispositions of assets and other provisions, net, for 1996
consisted primarily of provisions for losses totaling $25.9 million recognized
on five retail properties the Company decided to sell. These losses were
partially offset by the reversal of a portion ($8.7 million) of a 1995 provision
for loss on a tenant litigation judgment as a result of settlement of the
matter.

  The loss on dispositions of assets and other provisions, net, for 1995
consisted primarily of a provision for loss of $12.3 million on a litigation
judgment as a result of an appellate court award to a former tenant and
provisions for losses totaling $15.6 million recognized on retail properties the
Company decided to sell. These losses were partially offset by a gain of $2.4
million on disposition of a retail property.


                                                                              53
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Extraordinary Losses, Net of Related Income Tax Benefits: The extraordinary
losses in 1997, 1996 and 1995 resulted from early extinguishments of debt and
aggregated $32.8 million, $2.2 million and $13.3 million, respectively, less
deferred income tax benefits of $11.5 million, $.8 million and $4.6 million,
respectively.

Net Earnings (Loss): The Company had net earnings of $167.3 million in 1997 and
$16.4 million in 1996 and a net loss of $2.8 million in 1995. The Company's
operating income (after depreciation and amortization) was $98.6 million in
1997, $59.5 million in 1996 and $35.9 million in 1995. The improvements in
operating income were due primarily to the factors described above. Net earnings
(loss) for each year was affected by unusual and/or nonrecurring items discussed
above in gain (loss) on dispositions of assets and other provisions, net, and
extraordinary losses, net of related income tax benefits. In addition, net
earnings for 1997 was affected by the reversal of substantially all ($158.3
million) of the recorded deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December
31, 1997 as a result of the Company's decision to be taxed as a REIT effective
January 1, 1998. The deferred income taxes were reversed because management
believes that the Company met the qualifications for REIT status as of December
31, 1997, intends for it to continue to meet the qualifications in the future
and does not expect that the Company will be liable for income taxes or taxes on
"built-in gains" on its assets at the Federal level or in most states in future
years. The Company's effective tax rate was (157.2%) in 1997, 58.9% in 1996 and
42.5% in 1995. The effective rate in 1997 was affected by the reversal of
deferred tax assets and liabilities discussed above. Excluding the effect of the
reversal, the effective rate for 1997 was 57.4%. The effective rates were higher
in 1997 and 1996 because a portion of the distributions payable to the former
Hughes owners (or their successors) under the Contingent Stock Agreement is not
deductible for income tax purposes.

Earnings Before Depreciation and Deferred Taxes: The Company uses a supplemental
performance measure along with net earnings (loss) to report its operating
results. This measure, referred to as Earnings Before Depreciation and Deferred
Taxes ("EBDT"), is not a measure of operating results or cash flows from
operating activities as defined by generally accepted accounting principles.
Additionally, EBDT is not necessarily indicative of cash available to fund cash
needs and should not be considered as an alternative to cash flows as a measure
of liquidity. However, the Company believes that EBDT provides relevant
information about its operations and is necessary, along with net earnings
(loss), for an understanding of its operating results.

  Depreciation and amortization are excluded from EBDT because management
believes the Company's portfolio of operating properties is worth substantially
more than its undepreciated historical cost. Deferred income taxes are excluded
from EBDT because payments of income taxes have not been significant and are not
anticipated to become significant in the future. Current Federal and state
income taxes are included as reductions of EBDT; however, in 1997, current
income taxes incurred as a result of transactions completed to enable the
Company to meet the qualifications for REIT status are excluded. Management
believes this exclusion is appropriate as these taxes are nonrecurring and are
not related to operations. Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets and other
provisions, net, and extraordinary losses, net of related income tax benefits,
represent unusual and/or nonrecurring items and are therefore excluded from
EBDT. EBDT is reconciled to net earnings (loss) in the Five Year Summary of
Earnings Before Depreciation and Deferred Taxes from Operations and Net Earnings
(Loss) on page 59.

  EBDT was $181.4 million in 1997, $139.4 million in 1996 and $108.4 million in
1995. The increases in EBDT in 1997 and 1996 were due primarily to the
acquisition of Hughes. The results in 1997 were also affected by refinancings of
project debt at lower interest rates, debt repayments from proceeds of the
Series B Convertible Preferred stock offering in the first quarter and openings
and dispositions of projects in both 1997 and 1996. The reasons for significant
changes in revenues and expenses comprising EBDT by segment are described above.


54
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Financial condition, liquidity and capital resources    

Management believes that the Company's financial position is sound and that its
liquidity and capital resources are adequate for near term and longer term
requirements. Shareholders' equity increased to $465.5 million at December 31,
1997 from $177.1 million at December 31, 1996. The increase was due primarily to
the issuance of the Series B Convertible Preferred stock ($196.8 million) in the
first quarter and net earnings for the year (including the reversal of net
deferred income tax liabilities of $158.3 million), partially offset by the
payment of regular quarterly dividends on the common and Preferred stocks.

   The Company had cash and cash equivalents and investments in marketable
securities totaling $90.6 million and $47.4 million at December 31, 1997 and
1996, respectively.

   Net cash provided by operating activities was $185.5 million, $168.1 million
and $107 million in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The changes in cash
provided by operating activities were due primarily to the factors discussed
above in the analysis of operating results. The level of net cash provided by
operating activities is also affected by the timing of receipt of revenues
(including proceeds of land sales financed by the Company) and the payment of
operating and interest expenses and land development costs.

   In 1997 and 1996, over 80% of the Company's debt consisted of mortgages and
bonds collateralized by operating properties. Scheduled principal payments on
property debt were $46.3 million, $39 million and $36.4 million in 1997, 1996
and 1995, respectively. The increase in 1997 was attributable primarily to
principal payments on debt assumed in the Hughes transaction.

   The annual maturities of debt for the next five years are 
   as follows (in millions):

<TABLE>               
<CAPTION>             
                      
                       Scheduled   Balloon        
                       Payments    Payments   Total
                       ---------   --------   -----
<S>                    <C>         <C>        <C>  
                                                 
1998. . . . . .         $ 46.1    $ 24.0     $ 70.1
1999. . . . . .           43.1     148.4      191.5
2000. . . . . .           45.4     141.9      187.3
2001. . . . . .           46.7     156.2      202.9
2002. . . . . .           49.4     249.9      299.3
                        ------    ------     ------
                        $230.7    $720.4     $951.1
                        ======    ======     ======
</TABLE>

   The balloon payments due in 1998 are expected to be paid at the scheduled
maturity dates of the related loans from proceeds of refinancings or from other
available corporate funds.

   The Company has historically relied primarily on fixed rate, nonrecourse
loans from private institutional lenders to finance its operating properties and
expects that it will continue to do so in the future. In recent years, however,
the Company has made greater use of the public capital markets to meet its
capital resource needs. Since 1993, the Company has completed public corporate
debt and equity offerings aggregating over $700 million, the proceeds of which
have been used primarily to repay or refinance corporate and project-related
debt and to provide funds for project development costs, acquisitions and other
corporate purposes. These transactions were completed on terms which allowed the
Company to reduce its overall cost of capital while restructuring its debt
maturities and increasing its financial flexibility. The Company is continually
evaluating sources of capital, and management believes there are satisfactory
sources available for all requirements without necessitating property sales.

   Cash expenditures for properties in development and improvements to existing
properties funded by debt were $283.4 million, $124 million and $61.6 million in
1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The increases in 1997 and 1996 were due to
increased project development activity, primarily retail property expansions and
development of new office and industrial properties in Las Vegas. A substantial
portion of the costs of properties in development is financed with construction
or similar loans and/or credit line borrowings. Typically, long term fixed rate
debt financing is arranged concurrently with the construction financing or
before completion of construction.

   Improvements to existing properties funded by debt consist primarily of costs
of renovation and remerchandising programs and other capital improvement costs.
The Company's

                                             55
<PAGE>
 
share of these costs has been financed primarily from proceeds of refinancings
of the related properties or other properties and credit line borrowings.

     Due to the large number of projects under construction or in development,
the Company anticipates that the level of capital expenditures for new
development (excluding land development) and improvements to existing properties
will be over $300 million in 1998. A substantial portion of these expenditures
relates to new properties or retail center expansions and it is expected that
most of these costs will be financed by debt, including property-specific
construction loans and/or credit line borrowings.

     Cash expenditures for the acquisition of Hughes were $36.3 million in 1996
and were financed primarily by credit line borrowings. Cash expenditures for
acquisitions of interests in properties were $79.4 million in 1997, $18.1
million in 1996 and $28.2 million in 1995. These costs were financed primarily
by nonrecourse debt. The acquisitions in 1997 consisted primarily of a purchase
of a retail center. The acquisitions in 1996 consisted of purchases of partners'
interests in two retail centers, one of which was financed in part by the
seller. The acquisitions in 1995 consisted of purchases of partners' interests
in two retail centers, which were financed in whole or in part by the sellers,
and purchase of a minority interest in a third retail center.

     The Company has available sources of capital in addition to those discussed
above. The Company has a line of credit with a group of commercial banks and
other lenders that provides for aggregate unsecured borrowings of up to $250
million, all of which was available at December 31, 1997. This line of credit
can be used for various purposes, including land and project development costs,
property acquisitions, liquidity and other corporate needs. In addition, under
effective registration statements, the Company may issue additional medium-term
notes of up to $29.7 million and additional common stock, Preferred stock and/or
debt securities of up $297.5 million.

     The agreements relating to the line of credit, the 8.5% unsecured notes,
the medium-term notes and certain other loans impose limitations on the Company.
The most restrictive of these limit the Company's ability to incur certain types
of additional debt if it does not meet financial covenants relating to levels of
debt, debt service coverage, net worth and various other matters. The agreements
also impose restrictions on sale, lease and certain other transactions, subject
to various exclusions and limitations. These restrictions have not limited the
Company's normal business activities and are not expected to do so in the
foreseeable future.

The Year 2000 Issue              

The year 2000 issue relates to whether computer systems will properly recognize
date sensitive information to allow accurate processing of transactions and data
relating to the year 2000 and beyond. Systems that do not properly recognize
such information could generate erroneous data or fail.

     In 1996, the Company adopted a plan to replace and substantially upgrade
its management information and accounting systems and is addressing the year
2000 issue as part of this plan. The Company has implemented new financial
accounting and payroll systems which are year 2000 compliant and is in the
process of implementing new property management and human resource systems (both
of which are expected to become operational on or before January 1, 1999) which
will also be year 2000 compliant. In addition, as a result of the Company's
normal upgrade and replacement processes, all network and desktop equipment in
use meets the requirements for the year 2000. The Company is in the process of
conducting a comprehensive review of the computer hardware and software in the
mechanical systems (e.g., escalators, elevators, heating, ventilating and
cooling systems, etc.) at its operating properties to identify year 2000 issues.
The review is expected to be completed by June 30, 1998. While it is likely that
the review will identify the need to modify and/or replace certain equipment and
software, management does not believe that the year 2000 issue will pose
significant problems in these systems or that resolution of the problems will
have a material effect on the Company's financial condition or results of
operations. However, if the necessary modifications and replacements are not
completed on a timely basis, the year 2000 issue could affect the Company's
operations.

New accounting standards         

In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement
of Financial Accounting Standard No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income"
("SFAS No. 130"). SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for reporting and display
of comprehensive income and its components in a full set of general purpose
financial statements. It requires

56
<PAGE>
 
all items that are required to be recognized under accounting standards as
components of comprehensive income to be reported in a financial statement that
is displayed in equal prominence with other financial statements. It requires
that an enterprise display an amount representing total comprehensive income for
each period. It does not require per share amounts of comprehensive income to be
disclosed. SFAS No. 130 is effective for both interim and annual periods
beginning after December 15, 1997.

     In June 1997, FASB issued SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information" ("SFAS No. 131"). SFAS No. 131 establishes
standards for public companies to report information about operating segments in
annual financial statements and requires those enterprises to report selected
information about operating segments in interim financial reports issued to
shareholders. It also establishes standards for related disclosures about
products and services, geographic areas and major customers. SFAS No. 131 is
effective for financial statements for periods beginning after December 15,
1997.

     In May 1997, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants issued
Statement of Position 97-1 "Accounting by Participating Mortgage Loan
Borrowers." This Statement prescribes borrowers' accounting for participating
mortgage loans and requires, among other things, that borrowers recognize
liabilities for the estimated fair value of lenders' participations in the
appreciation in value (if any) of mortgaged real estate projects and record such
participations as interest over the term of the related loans. The Statement is
effective with respect to the Company in 1998. The Company has not previously
recognized lenders' participations in the appreciation in value of mortgaged
properties and, accordingly, it will recognize the cumulative effect of
initially adopting the Statement in its statement of operations for the first
quarter of 1998. The cumulative effect of initial adoption of the Statement will
be to increase liabilities and reduce net earnings by approximately $4,500,000.
This cumulative effect will be reported as a "cumulative effect of change in
accounting principle" and therefore, will not impact income from continuing
operations or EBDT. Ongoing application of the Statement will result in changes
in interest expense and liabilities to lenders reported in the financial
statements; however, because of the unpredictability of the timing and magnitude
of changes in property values, it is not possible to estimate the timing, amount
or direction of these changes.

Impact of inflation              

The major portion of the Company's operating properties, its retail centers, is
substantially protected from declines in the purchasing power of the dollar.
Retail leases generally provide for minimum rents plus percentage rents based on
sales over a minimum base. In many cases, increases in tenant sales (whether due
to increased unit sales or increased prices from demand or general inflation)
will result in increased rental revenue to the Company. A substantial portion of
the tenant leases (retail and office) also provide for other rents which
reimburse the Company for certain of its operating expenses; consequently,
increases in these costs do not have a significant impact on the Company's
operating results. The Company has a significant amount of debt which, in a
period of inflation, will result in a holding gain since debt will be paid off
with dollars having less purchasing power.

Information relating to forward-looking statements          

This Annual Report to Shareholders of the Company includes forward-looking
statements which reflect the Company's current views with respect to future
events and financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject
to certain risks and uncertainties, including those identified below which could
cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those
anticipated. The words "believe", "expect", "anticipate" and similar expressions
identify forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their
dates. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise. The following are among the factors that could cause actual
results to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated: (1)
risks associated with the Company's qualification and operation as a REIT; (2)
real estate investment risks; (3) development risks; (4) liquidity of real
estate investments; (5) dependence on rental income from real property; (6)
effect of uninsured loss; (7) lack of geographical diversification; (8) possible
environmental liabilities; (9) difficulties of compliance with Americans with
Disabilities Act; (10) competition; (11) changes in the economic climate; and
(12) changes in tax laws or regulations. For a more detailed discussion of these
and other factors, see Exhibit 99.2 of the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal
year ended December 31, 1997.

                                                                              57
<PAGE>
 
                       The Rouse Company and Subsidiaries

             FIVE YEAR SUMMARY OF EARNINGS BEFORE DEPRECIATION AND
             DEFERRED TAXES FROM OPERATIONS AND NET EARNINGS (LOSS)

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                                  Year ended December 31,            
                                                                   --------------------------------------------------
                                                                      1997       1996      1995      1994      1993  
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                                                      (in thousands)                 
<S>                                                                <C>         <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>     
Revenues:                                                                                                            
Operating properties:                                                                                                
 Retail centers:                                                                                                     
   Minimum and percentage rents................................     $271,743   $256,880  $245,192  $238,222  $227,140
   Other rents and other revenues..............................      231,912    251,535   246,488   248,253   236,458
 Office, mixed-use and other:
   Minimum and percentage rents................................      130,744    106,246    80,319    82,347    81,415
   Other rents and other revenues..............................       87,991     75,908    64,647    64,225    62,617
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                                     722,390    690,569   636,646   633,047   607,630
Land sales.....................................................      203,219    137,853    33,403    35,232    35,313
Corporate interest income......................................        4,485      3,495     2,772     2,892     3,862
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                                     930,094    831,917   672,821   671,171   646,805
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------

Operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation
  and amortization:
Operating properties:
  Retail centers...............................................      257,848    260,027   246,747   253,095   251,386
  Office, mixed-use and other..................................      110,227     89,524    70,096    74,368    76,148
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                                     368,075    349,551   316,843   327,463   327,534
Land sales.....................................................      151,800    107,787    17,827    19,877    19,387
Development....................................................        4,747      4,964     7,288     6,494     3,853
Corporate......................................................       13,384      9,752     8,920     8,309     6,184
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                                     538,006    472,054   350,878   362,143   356,958
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------

Interest expense:
Operating properties:
  Retail centers...............................................      122,325    129,091   128,215   128,798   124,204
  Office, mixed-use and other..................................       81,905     76,659    69,034    67,892    65,601
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                                     204,230    205,750   197,249   196,690   189,805
Land sales.....................................................        4,287      1,658     5,071     5,028     4,093
Development....................................................           --        361       358       495       495
Corporate......................................................       (1,027)    12,612    10,285    11,370    16,413
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                                     207,490    220,381   212,963   213,583   210,806
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------

Current income taxes applicable to operations (note 2).........        3,208        123       620       735       760
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------
                                                                     748,704    692,558   564,461   576,461   568,524
                                                                   ---------   --------  --------  --------  --------

Earnings before depreciation and deferred
   taxes from operations (note 1)..............................     $181,390   $139,359  $108,360  $ 94,710  $ 78,281
                                                                   =========   ========  ========  ========  ========  
</TABLE>

58
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                             Year ended December 31,
                                                                             ----------------------------------------------------
                                                                               1997       1996       1995       1994       1993
                                                                             --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
                                                                                                (in thousands)
<S>                                                                          <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C> 
Earnings before depreciation and deferred taxes
   from operations by segment:
Operating properties:
   Retail centers..................................................          $123,101   $119,297   $116,135   $103,978   $ 87,248
   Office, mixed-use and other.....................................            26,562     15,852      5,839      4,273      2,283
                                                                             --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
                                                                              149,663    135,149    121,974    108,251     89,531
Land sales.........................................................            47,090     28,404     10,502     10,330     11,833
Development........................................................            (4,747)    (5,325)    (7,646)    (6,989)    (4,348)
Corporate..........................................................           (10,616)   (18,869)   (16,470)   (16,882)   (18,735)
                                                                             --------   --------   --------   --------   --------

Earnings before depreciation and
  deferred taxes from operations...................................          $181,390   $139,359   $108,360   $ 94,710   $ 78,281
                                                                             ========   ========   ========   ========   ========

Reconciliation to net earnings (loss):
Earnings before depreciation and deferred
  taxes from operations............................................          $181,390   $139,359   $108,360   $ 94,710   $ 78,281
Depreciation and amortization......................................           (86,009)   (79,990)   (73,062)   (74,186)   (70,200)
Deferred income taxes applicable to operations.....................           124,203    (25,596)    (3,699)    (5,995)    (3,603)
Certain current income taxes (note 2)..............................            (4,929)        --         --         --         --
Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets and
  other provisions, net............................................           (24,763)   (15,887)   (25,749)    (7,923)    (5,769)
Extraordinary losses, net..........................................           (21,342)    (1,453)    (8,631)    (4,447)    (8,051)
Cumulative effect at October 1, 1997 of change in
  accounting for business process reengineering costs, net.........            (1,214)        --         --         --         --
                                                                             --------   --------   --------   --------   --------
Net earnings (loss)................................................          $167,336   $ 16,433   $( 2,781)  $  2,159   $ (9,342)
                                                                             ========   ========   ========   ========   ========
</TABLE>

Note 1--Earnings before depreciation and deferred taxes (EBDT) is not a measure
        of operating results or cash flows from operating activities as defined
        by generally accepted accounting principles. Additionally, EBDT is not
        necessarily indicative of cash available to fund cash needs, including
        the payment of dividends and should not be considered as an alternative
        to cash flows as a measure of liquidity. See the "Earnings Before
        Depreciation and Deferred Taxes" section of Management's Discussion and
        Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations on page 54 for
        a full discussion of EBDT.

Note 2--EBDT for 1997 excludes current income taxes arising from transactions
        completed by the Company in connection with its determination to elect
        to be taxed as a REIT.

                                                                              59
<PAGE>
 
                         PROJECTS OF THE ROUSE COMPANY

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retail Centers in Operation                                                                                                         
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Date of Opening                                                  Retail Square Footage 
Consolidated Centers                         or Acquisition   Department Stores/Anchor Tenants             Total Center    Mall Only
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>               <C>                                          <C>             <C>  
Augusta Mall, Augusta, GA (a)                          8/78   Rich's; Macy's; JCPenney; Sears                   921,000      332,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bayside Marketplace, Miami, FL (b)                     4/87   --                                                223,000      223,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beachwood Place, Cleveland, OH (a)                     8/78   Saks Fifth Avenue; Dillard's; Nordstrom           912,000      348,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cherry Hill Mall, Cherry Hill, NJ (a)                 10/61   Strawbridge's, Macy's; JCPenney                 1,292,000      543,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Echelon Mall, Voorhees, NJ (a)                         9/70   Strawbridge's; JCPenney; Boscov's               1,008,000      439,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exton Square, Exton, PA (a)                            3/73   Strawbridge's                                     434,000      253,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, MA (a)               8/76   --                                                215,000      215,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fashion Show, Las Vegas, NV (b)                    6/96   Neiman Marcus; Saks Fifth Avenue;                              
                                                              Macy's; Dillard's; Robinsons-May                  840,000      308,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Park, Toledo, OH (b)                          7/71   Hudson's; JCPenney; Jacobson's; Lion            1,056,000      313,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Gallery at Market East, Philadelphia, 
PA(a)(c)                                               8/77   Strawbridge's; JCPenney; KMart                  1,179,000      363,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Governor's Square, Tallahassee, FL (b)                 8/79   Burdines; Dillard's; Sears; JCPenney            1,044,000      340,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Grand Avenue, Milwaukee, WI (a)                    8/82   The Boston Store                                  842,000      242,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Harborplace, Baltimore, MD (a)                         7/80   --                                                136,000      136,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Highland Mall, Austin, TX (b)                          8/71   Dillard's; Foley's; JCPenney                    1,085,000      367,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hulen Mall, Ft. Worth, TX (a)                          8/77   Foley's; Montgomery Ward; Dillard's               938,000      327,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Jacksonville Landing, Jacksonville, 
FL (a)                                                 6/87   --                                                128,000      128,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mall St. Matthews, Louisville, KY (a)                  3/62   Dillard's; JCPenney; Bacon                        981,000      353,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Midtown Square, Charlotte, NC (a)                     10/59   Burlington Coat Factory                           235,000      190,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mondawmin Mall (a)/Metro Plaza (b),                                                                                                 
Baltimore, MD                                   1/78; 12/82   --                                                496,000      496,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moorestown Mall, Moorestown, NJ (a)                   12/97   Strawbridge's; Boscov's; Sears                    857,000      258,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
North Star, San Antonio, TX (b)                        9/60   Dillard's; Foley's; Saks Fifth Avenue;                                
                                                              Macy's; Mervyn's                                1,276,000      487,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oakwood Center, Gretna, LA (a)                        10/82   Sears; Dillard's; Mervyn's; Maison Blanche        960,000      362,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Owings Mills, Baltimore, MD (a)                        7/86   Macy's; Hecht's; JCPenney                         884,000      325,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paramus Park, Paramus, NJ (a)                          3/74   Macy's; Sears                                     746,000      279,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Perimeter Mall, Atlanta, GA (b)                        8/71   Rich's; JCPenney; Macy's                        1,139,000      444,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plymouth Meeting, Plymouth Meeting, PA (a)             2/66   Strawbridge's; Boscov's; IKEA                     790,000      390,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Riverwalk, New Orleans, LA (a)                         8/86   --                                                179,000      179,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
St. Louis Union Station, St. Louis, MO (a)             8/85   --                                                172,000      172,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, CA (a)              10/80   Macy's; Robinsons-May                             570,000      287,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Street Seaport, New York, NY (a)                 7/83   --                                                259,000      259,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tampa Bay Center, Tampa, FL (b)                        8/76   Burdines; Sears; Montgomery Ward                  895,000      325,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
White Marsh, Baltimore, MD (b)                         8/81   Macy's; JCPenney; Hecht's; Sears; IKEA          1,028,000      359,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Willowbrook, Wayne, NJ (b)                             9/69   Lord & Taylor; Macy's; Stern's; Sears           1,530,000      502,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Woodbridge Center, Woodbridge, NJ (a)                  3/71   Lord & Taylor; Sears;                                                 
                                                              Stern's; Fortunoff; JCPenney                    1,546,000      560,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Total Consolidated Centers in Operation*       26,796,000   11,104,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

62
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retail Centers in Operation                                                     
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Date of Opening                                                  Retail Square Footage    
Nonconsolidated/Managed Centers            or Acquisition  Department Stores/Anchor Tenants            Total Center        Mall Only
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                       <C>              <C>                                         <C>                 <C>  
Burlington Center, Burlington Township, 
NJ (d)                                               8/82  Strawbridge's; Sears; JCPenney                  666,000           242,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Collin Creek, Plano, TX (d)                          9/95  Dillard's; Foley's; JCPenney; 
                                                           Sears; Mervyn's                               1,123,000           333,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Mall in Columbia, Columbia, MD (e)               8/71  Hecht's; JCPenney; Sears                        953,000           421,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Northwest Arkansas Mall, Fayetteville, 
AR (d)                                               8/80  Dillard's; JCPenney; Sears                      790,000           309,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Randhurst, Mt. Prospect, IL (d)                      7/81  Carson, Pirie, Scott; JCPenney;               
                                                           Montgomery Ward; Kohl's                       1,304,000           581,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ridgedale Center, Minnetonka, MN (d)                 1/89  Dayton's; JCPenney; Sears                     1,027,000           334,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sherway Gardens, Toronto, ONT (c)                   12/78  Eaton's; The Bay                                972,000           524,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Southland Center, Taylor, MI (d)                     1/89  Hudson's; Mervyn's; JCPenney                    903,000           320,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Staten Island Mall, Staten Island, NY (d)           11/80  Sears; Macy's; JCPenney                       1,229,000           622,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Town & Country Center, Miami, FL (c)                 2/88  Sears; Marshalls                                645,000           467,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Community Centers in Columbia, MD (10) (e)             --  --                                              962,000           962,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Total Nonconsolidated/Managed Centers                                    
                                                           in Operation                                 10,574,000         5,115,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Total Retail Centers in Operation*           37,370,000        16,219,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retail Centers Held for Sale                                                    
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Date of Opening                                                  Retail Square Footage
Consolidated Centers                       or Acquisition  Department Stores/Anchor Tenants            Total Center        Mall Only
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                       <C>              <C>                                         <C>                 <C>  
Eastfield Mall, Springfield, MA (a)                  4/68  Sears; Filene's; JCPenney                        660,000          217,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greengate Mall, Greensburg, PA (a)                   8/65  Lazarus; Montgomery Ward                         645,000          233,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Salem Mall, Dayton, OH (a)                          10/66  Lazarus; Sears                                   838,000          312,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Total Consolidated Retail Centers                               
                                                             Held for Sale                                2,143,000          762,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<CAPTION> 

- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonconsolidated/Managed Centers                                                 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
College Square, Cedar Falls, IA (d)                  8/80  Von Maur; Younkers; Wal-Mart                     560,000          313,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marshall Town Center, Marshalltown, IA (d)           8/80  JCPenney; Younkers; Menard's; Stage              343,000          164,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Muscatine Mall, Muscatine, IA (d)                    8/80  JCPenney                                         339,000          178,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
North Grand, Ames, IA (d)                            8/80  JCPenney; Sears; Younkers                        350,000          157,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Westland Mall, West Burlington, IA (d)               8/80  JCPenney; Younkers; Stage                        335,000          175,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Total Nonconsolidated/Managed Retail                                     
                                                           Centers Held for Sale                          1,927,000          987,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Total Retail Centers Held for Sale             4,070,000        1,749,000

- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Total Retail Centers*                         41,440,000       17,968,000

- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Not including 691,000 square feet of retail space in five mixed-use properties listed on the following page.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

                                                                              63
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
<S>                                                       <C>                                          <C> 
Office, Mixed-Use and Other Properties in Operation
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Consolidated Mixed-Use Properties                         Location                                      Square Feet
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Center (a)                                        Phoenix, AZ
    The Shops at Arizona Center                                                                             151,000
    One Arizona Center Office Tower                                                                         330,000
    Two Arizona Center Office Tower                                                                         449,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Gallery at Harborplace (a)                            Baltimore, MD
    The Gallery                                                                                             141,000
    Office Tower                                                                                            265,000
    Renaissance Hotel                                                                                     622 rooms
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Pioneer Place (a)                                         Portland, OR
    Saks Fifth Avenue                                                                                        60,000
    Retail Pavillion                                                                                        147,000
    Office Tower                                                                                            283,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Village of Cross Keys (a)                                 Baltimore, MD
    Village Shops                                                                                            74,000
    Village Square Offices                                                                                   79,000
    Quadrangle Offices                                                                                      110,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Westlake Center (a)                                       Seattle, WA
    Retail Pavillion                                                                                        118,000
    Office Tower                                                                                            342,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Office and Other Properties
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hughes Center (11 buildings) (a)                          Las Vegas, NV                                     836,000
Hughes Airport Center (29 buildings) (a)                  Las Vegas, NV                                   1,468,000
Hughes Cheyenne Center (3 buildings) (a)                  Las Vegas, NV                                     377,000
Summerlin Commercial (11 buildings) (a)                   Summerlin, NV                                     610,000
Lucky's Center (3 buildings) (a)                          Los Angeles, CA                                   142,000
Owings Mills Town Center (4 buildings) (b)                Baltimore County, MD                              731,000
Other Office Projects (4 buildings) (a)                   Various                                           268,000
                                                          Total Consolidated Office, Mixed-Use and   
                                                          Other Properties**                              6,981,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonconsolidated/Managed Office, Mixed-Use and
Other Properties
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Columbia Office and Industrial (12 buildings) (e)         Columbia, MD                                    1,033,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Properties owned by Rouse-Teachers                        Baltimore-Washington Corridor
Properties, Inc. (d) (29 buildings)                                                                       4,601,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
300 East Lombard (d)                                      Baltimore, MD                                     233,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Total Nonconsolidated/Managed Office, 
                                                          Mixed-Use And Other Properties                  5,867,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Total Office, Mixed-Use and Other
                                                          Properties in Operation**                      12,848,000
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office, Mixed-Use and Other Properties Held for Sale
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Consolidated Properties
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cross Keys Inn (a)                                        Baltimore, MD                                   148 rooms
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonconsolidated/Managed Properties
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Columbia Inn (e)                                          Columbia, MD                                    289 rooms
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Gateway Commerce Center (e)                               Columbia, MD                                    1,290,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                                          Total Office, Mixed-Use and 
                                                          Other Properties**                             14,138,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
** Including 691,000 square feet of retail space in the mixed-use properties.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
</TABLE> 
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Retail Centers Under Construction                                                                         Retail Square Footage
or in Development                                     Department Stores/Anchor Tenants                Total Center       Mall Only
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                   <C>                                             <C>                <C> 
Oviedo Marketplace, Orlando, FL                       Dillard's; Gayfers; Regal Cinema                     850,000         300,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Summerlin Town Center, Summerlin, NV                  Robinsons-May; Lord & Taylor; Dillard's            1,050,000         350,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Perimeter Mall Expansion, Atlanta, GA                 Nordstrom                                            225,000         100,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Augusta Mall Expansion, Augusta, GA                   JB White                                             160,000           5,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oakwood Center Expansion, Gretna, LA                  JCPenney                                             125,000              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
White Marsh Expansion, Baltimore, MD                  Lord & Taylor                                        120,000              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Owings Mills Expansion, Baltimore, MD                 Lord & Taylor; Sears; General Cinema                 330,000          25,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plymouth Meeting Expansion, Plymouth Meeting, PA      General Cinema                                        48,000          48,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moorestown Mall Expansion, Moorestown, NJ             Strawbridge's; Lord & Taylor                         320,000              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Northwest Arkansas Mall Expansion, Fayetteville, AR   Sears                                                 40,000              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Echelon Mall Expansion, Voorhees, NJ                  Sears                                                142,000              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paramus Park Expansion, Paramus, NJ                   Old Navy                                              95,000          95,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mall St. Matthews Expansion, Louisville, KY           Lord & Taylor                                        128,000           8,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Mall in Columbia Expansion, Columbia, MD          Nordstrom; Lord & Taylor                             355,000          75,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exton Square Expansion, Exton, PA                     Sears; Boscov's; JCPenney                            569,000         120,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fashion Show Expansion, Las Vegas, NV             Neiman Marcus; Saks Fifth Avenue; Macy's;            885,000         300,000
                                                      Robinsons-May; Lord & Taylor
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hulen Mall Expansion, Fort Worth, TX                  Lord & Taylor; Nordstrom                             360,000          80,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Harborplace Renovation, Baltimore, MD                 Planet Hollywood                                          --              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Faneuil Hall Marketplace Renovation, Boston, MA       -                                                         --              --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Village Center at The Trails, Summerlin, NV       -                                                    169,000         169,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fairwood Village Center, Fairwood, MD                 -                                                     80,000          80,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lake Mead at Buffalo, Summerlin, NV                   -                                                     69,000          69,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      Total Retail Centers Under Construction or
                                                      in Development                                     6,120,000       1,824,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office, Mixed-Use and Other Properties Under
Construction or in Development                        Type of Space                                                    Square Feet
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pioneer Place Expansion, Portland, OR                 Saks Fifth Avenue                                                    150,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Center Expansion, Phoenix, AZ                 AMC Theatre                                                           90,000
                                                      Doubletree Hotel                                                   400 rooms
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Village at Merrick Park, Coral Gables, FL         Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom                                             385,000
                                                      Mall Only Retail                                                     430,000
                                                      Office                                                                80,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hughes Center (2 buildings), Las Vegas, NV            Office                                                               166,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hughes Airport Center (2 buildings), Las Vegas, NV    Industrial                                                           109,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Summerlin Commercial (2 buildings), Summerlin, NV     Office                                                               161,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      Total Office, Mixed-Use and Other Properties
                                                      Under Construction or in Development                               1,571,000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

Notes:
(a) Projects are wholly owned by subsidiaries of the Company.
(b) Projects are owned by joint ventures or partnerships and are managed by
    affiliates of the Company for a fee. The Company's ownership interest,
    through its subsidiaries, is at least 50% (except for North Star and
    Willowbrook in which the Company has 37 1/2% interests).
(c) Projects are managed by affiliates of the Company for a fee plus a share of
    cash flow.
(d) Projects are owned by partnerships or by subsidiaries of the Company
    (Burlington Center, Randhurst and Staten Island Mall) and are managed by
    affiliates of the Company for a fee plus a share of cash flow and a share of
    proceeds from sales or refinancings. The Company's ownership interest in the
    partnerships is less than 20%, except for Collin Creek Mall in which the
    Company has a 30% interest.
(e) Projects are owned and managed by affiliates in which the Company holds
    substantially all (at least 98%) of the financial interest, but does not own
    a majority voting interest.

<PAGE>
 
Exhibit 21.  Subsidiaries of the Registrant.

   The Registrant had no parent at December 31, 1997.

   As of December 31, 1997, The Rouse Company owned 100% of the voting
   securities of the following domestic and foreign corporations included in the
   consolidated financial statements:

      
                                                            State of
   Subsidiary                                             Incorporation
   ----------                                             -------------

Directly owned subsidiaries of the Company.  All
shares are Common Stock unless otherwise noted.

   American City Corporation, The                            Maryland
   Baltimore Center, Inc.                                    Maryland
   Beachwood Property Holdings, Inc.                         Maryland
   Charlottetown, Inc.                                       Maryland
   Charlottetown North, Inc.                                 Maryland
   Community Research and Development, Inc.                  Maryland
   Cuyahoga Land Company, Inc.                               Maryland
   Exton Acquisition, Inc.                                   Pennsylvania
   Exton Shopping, Inc.                                      Maryland
   Exton Square, Inc.                                        Pennsylvania
   Four Owings Mills Corporate Center, Inc.                  Maryland
   Gallery Maintenance, Inc. (Note 1)                        Maryland
   Gallery II Trustee, Inc.                                  Maryland
   Harbor Overlook Investments, Inc.                         Maryland
   Harborplace Management Corporation                        Maryland
   Harundale Mall, Inc.                                      Maryland
   Hermes Incorporated                                       Maryland
   Huntington Properties, Inc. (Note 2)                      Maryland
   It's Showtime of Maryland, Inc.                           Maryland
   Kalimba Marketplace, Inc.                                 Maryland
   Louisville Shopping Center, Inc.                          Kentucky
   Mondawmin Corporation                                     Maryland
   O. M. Guaranty, Inc.                                      Maryland
   O. M. Land Development, Inc.                              Maryland
   O. M. Mall Corporation                                    Maryland
   O. M. Management Company, Inc.                            Maryland
   One Owings Mills Corporate Center, Inc.                   Maryland
   Owings Mills Finance Corporation                          Maryland
   Plymouth Meeting Food Court, Inc.                         Maryland  
   Plymouth Meeting Mall, Inc. (Note 3)                      Pennsylvania    
   PT Funding, Inc.                                          Maryland
<PAGE>
 
   Rouse-Brandywood, Inc.                                    Maryland
   Rouse-Camden Warehouse, Inc.                              Maryland
   Rouse Capital (Note 4)                                    Delaware
   Rouse-Columbus, Inc.                                      Maryland
   Rouse-Commerce, Inc.                                      Maryland
   Rouse Company at Owings Mills, The                        Maryland
   Rouse Company Financial Services, Inc., The               Maryland
   Rouse Company of Alabama, Inc., The (Note 5)              Alabama
   Rouse Company of Alaska, Inc., The                        Maryland
   Rouse Company of Arkansas, Inc., The                      Maryland
   Rouse Company of California, Inc., The (Note 6)           Maryland
   Rouse Company of Colorado, Inc., The (Note 7)             Maryland
   Rouse Company of Connecticut, Inc., The (Note 8)          Connecticut
   Rouse Company of Florida, Inc., The (Note 9)              Florida
   Rouse Company of Georgia, Inc., The (Note 10)             Georgia
   Rouse Company of Idaho, Inc., The                         Maryland
   Rouse Company of Illinois, Inc., The                      Maryland
   Rouse Company of Iowa, Inc., The (Note 11)                Maryland
   Rouse Company of Louisiana, The (Note 12)                 Maryland
   Rouse Company of Maine, Inc., The                         Maryland
   Rouse Company of Massachusetts, Inc., The (Note 13)       Maryland
   Rouse Company of Michigan, Inc., The (Note 14)            Maryland
   Rouse Company of Minnesota, Inc., The (Note 15)           Maryland
   Rouse Company of Mississippi, Inc., The                   Maryland
   Rouse Company of Montana, Inc., The                       Maryland
   Rouse Company of Nevada, Inc., The (Note 16)              Nevada
   Rouse Company of New Hampshire, Inc., The                 Maryland
   Rouse Company of New Jersey, Inc., The (Note 17)          New Jersey
   Rouse Company of New Mexico, Inc., The                    Maryland
   Rouse Company of New York, Inc., The (Note 18)            New York
   Rouse Company of North Carolina, Inc., The (Note 19)      Maryland
   Rouse Company of North Dakota, Inc., The                  Maryland
   Rouse Company of Ohio, Inc., The (Note 20)                Ohio
   Rouse Company of Oklahoma, Inc., The                      Maryland
   Rouse Company of Oregon, Inc., The (Note 21)              Maryland
   Rouse Company of Pennsylvania, Inc., The (Note 22)         Pennsylvania
   Rouse Company of Rhode Island, Inc., The                  Maryland
   Rouse Company of South Carolina, Inc., The                Maryland
   Rouse Company of South Dakota, Inc., The                  Maryland
   Rouse Company of Tennessee, Inc., The                     Maryland
   Rouse Company of Texas, Inc., The (Note 23)               Texas
   Rouse Company of the District of Columbia, The            Maryland
   Rouse Company of Utah, Inc., The                          Maryland
   Rouse Company of Vermont, Inc., The                       Maryland
   Rouse Company of Virginia, Inc., The (Note 24)            Maryland

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
   Rouse Company of Washington, Inc., The (Note 25)          Maryland
   Rouse Company of West Virginia, Inc., The                 Maryland
   Rouse Company of Wisconsin, Inc., The                     Maryland
   Rouse Company of Wyoming, Inc., The                       Maryland
   Rouse-Consulting, Inc.                                    Maryland
   Rouse Credit Corporation                                  Maryland
   Rouse Development Company of California, Inc., The        Maryland
   Rouse Event Marketing, Inc.                               Maryland
   Rouse-Fairwood Development Corporation                    Maryland
   Rouse Fashion Show Management, Inc.                       Maryland
   Rouse Gallery II Management, Inc.                         Maryland
   Rouse-Hagerstown, Inc.                                    Maryland
   Rouse-Harford County, Inc.                                Maryland
   Rouse Holding Company, The                                Maryland
   Rouse Holding Company of Arizona, Inc., The (Note 26)     Maryland
   Rouse-Inglewood, Inc.                                     Maryland
   Rouse Investing Company (Note 27)                         Maryland
   Rouse Management, Inc.                                    Maryland
   Rouse Management Services Corporation                     Maryland
   Rouse Management Services Corporation of Arkansas,        Maryland
     Inc.
   Rouse Management Services Corporation of Louisiana,       Maryland
    Inc.
   Rouse Metro Plaza, Inc.                                   Maryland
   Rouse-Metro Shopping Center, Inc.                         Maryland
   Rouse-Milwaukee, Inc.                                     Maryland
   Rouse-Milwaukee Garage Maintenance, Inc.                  Maryland
   Rouse Missouri Holding Company (Note 28)                  Maryland
   Rouse-Oakwood Two, Inc.                                   Maryland
   Rouse Office Management, Inc.                             Maryland
   Rouse Office Management of Pennsylvania, Inc.             Maryland
   Rouse-Owings Mills, Inc.                                  Maryland
   Rouse Owings Mills Management Corporation                 Maryland
   Rouse Philadelphia, Inc.                                  Maryland
   Rouse Philadelphia Three, Inc.                            Maryland
   Rouse-Phoenix Cinema, Inc.                                Maryland
   Rouse-Randhurst Shopping Center, Inc.                     Maryland
   Rouse-Santa Monica, Inc.                                  Delaware
   Rouse Service Company, The                                Maryland
   Rouse SI Shopping Center, Inc.                            Maryland
   Rouse Transportation, Inc.                                Maryland
   Rouse Tristate Venture, Inc.                              Texas
   Rouse Venture Capital, Inc.                               Maryland

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
   Rouse-Wates, Incorporated (Note 29)                       Delaware
   RREF Holding, Inc. (Note 30)                              Texas
   Salem Mall, Incorporated                                  Maryland
   Santa Monica Place, Inc.                                  Maryland
   Saratoga Equipment Corporation, The                       Maryland
   Six Owings Mills Corporate Center, Inc.                   Maryland
   SMPL Management, Inc.                                     Maryland
   Stansfield-Laurel, Inc.                                   Maryland
   Three Owings Mills Corporate Center, Inc.                 Maryland
   TRC Central, Inc.                                         Maryland
   TRCD, Inc. (Note 31)                                      Delaware
   TRC Holding Company of Washington, D.C. (Note 32)         Maryland
   TRC Property Management, Inc.                             Maryland
   TRC Purchasing, Inc.                                      Maryland
   Two Owings Mills Corporate Center, Inc.                   Maryland
   White Marsh Equities Corporation                          Maryland

Foreign subsidiaries:
- -------------------- 

   Rouse Service (Canada) Limited                            Canada

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
Notes:
- ----- 

1. Gallery Maintenance, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock of Rouse
   Gallery Management, Inc., a Maryland corporation.

2. Huntington Properties, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock of
   Huntington Realty Interests, Ltd., a Maryland corporation.

   Huntington Realty Interests, Ltd. owns all of the outstanding capital stock
   of the following Maryland corporations:

          HRIL, Inc.
          Huntington Capital Investors, Ltd.
          Regency-Huntington, Inc.

3. Plymouth Meeting Mall, Inc. owns all of the outstanding common stock of 1150
   Plymouth Associates, Inc., a Maryland corporation.

4. Rouse Capital is a statutory business trust formed under Delaware law.  All
   of the Common Securities of Rouse Capital are owned by the Company.  The
   Preferred Securities of Rouse Capital were sold in a public registered
   offering in 1995.

5. The Rouse Company of Alabama, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock
   of Rouse-Liberty Park, Inc., a Maryland Corporation.

6. The Rouse Company of California, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
   stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Rouse-Canyon Springs, Inc.
          Rouse-Irvine, Inc.
          Rouse-Oakland, Inc.
          Rouse-Palm Springs II, Inc.
          Rouse-Sacramento, Inc.

7. The Rouse Company of Colorado, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock
   of Rouse Management Services Corporation of Colorado, Inc., a Maryland
   corporation.

8. The Rouse Company of Connecticut, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
   stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Rouse Chapel Square Finance, Inc.
          Rouse New Haven Parking Management, Inc.
   

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
9. The Rouse Company of Florida, Inc. owns all of the outstanding common stock
   of each of the following corporations:

          Bayside Entertainment Company, a Maryland corporation
          Governor's Square, Inc., a Florida corporation
          Howard Retail Investment Corporation, a Maryland  corporation
          New River Center, Inc., a Florida corporation
          Rouse-Bayside, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Coral Gables, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Fort Myers, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Jacksonville, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse Kendall Management Corporation, a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Marina, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Miami, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse Office Management of Florida, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Orlando, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Osceola, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse Retail Management - Bayside, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Sunrise, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Tampa, Inc., a Florida corporation

10. The Rouse Company of Georgia, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock
    of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Augusta Mall, Inc.
          Outlet Square of Atlanta, Inc.
          Perimeter Center, Inc.
          Perimeter Mall, Inc.
          Perimeter Mall Management Corporation
          Rouse-Atlanta, Inc.
          Rouse Columbus Square, Inc.
          Rouse Columbus Square Management Corporation
          Rouse Development Management Company, Inc.
          Rouse South DeKalb, Inc.
          South DeKalb Mall Management Corporation

11.  The Rouse Company of Iowa, Inc. owns all of the outstanding  capital stock
     of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Rouse Management Services Corporation of Iowa, Inc.
          Rouse Management Services Corporation Two of Iowa, Inc.
   
                                       6
<PAGE>
 
12.  The Rouse Company of Louisiana owns all of the outstanding  capital stock
     of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Riverwalk Operating Company, Inc.
          Rouse-New Orleans, Inc.

13. The Rouse Company of Massachusetts, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Eastfield Mall, Incorporated
          Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Inc.
          Marketplace Grasshopper, Inc.

14. The Rouse Company of Michigan, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Rouse Southland, Inc.
          Rouse Southland Management Corporation
          Southland Security, Inc.
          Southland Shopping Center, Inc.

15. The Rouse Company of Minnesota, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Ridgedale Shopping Center, Inc.
          Rouse-Maple Grove, Inc.
          Rouse Ridgedale, Inc.
          Rouse Ridgedale Management Corporation

16. The Rouse Company of Nevada, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock
    of each of the following entities:

          Cherry Hill Center, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Echelon Holding Company, Inc., a Delaware corporation
          Echelon Mall, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Harborplace, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          One Willow Corporation, a Delaware corporation
          Paramus Equities, Inc., a Texas corporation
          Paramus Park, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse Fashion Show, Inc., a Nevada corporation
          Rouse-Moorestown, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Moorestown II, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Wincopin, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Two Willow Corporation, a Delaware corporation
          The Village of Cross Keys, Incorporated, a Maryland
            corporation
          White Marsh Mall, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Woodbridge Center, Inc., a Maryland corporation

                                      7 
<PAGE>

   One Willow Corporation owns all of the outstanding capital stock of Three
   Willow Corporation, a Delaware corporation.

   The Village of Cross Keys, Incorporated owns all of the outstanding capital
   stock of The Roost, Inc., a Maryland corporation.

17. The Rouse Company of New Jersey, Inc. owns all of the outstanding Series A
    Preferred Stock of Rouse Woodbridge Funding, Inc., a Delaware corporation,
    and all of the outstanding common stock of each of the following Maryland
    corporations:

          Echelon Urban Center, Inc.
          Paramus Equities II, Inc.
          Paramus Mall Management Company, Inc.
          Rouse-Atlantic Gateway, Inc.
          Rouse-Burlington, Inc.
          Rouse-Echelon, Inc.
          The Willowbrook Corporation
          Willmall Holdings, Inc.
          Willowbrook Management Corporation

18. The Rouse Company of New York, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          DM Shopping Center, Inc.
          Rouse-Seaport Retail Venture, Inc.
          Rouse SI Shopping Management, Inc.
          Seaport Marketplace, Inc.
          Seaport Marketplace Theatre, Inc.
          Seaport Theatre Management Corporation

19. The Rouse Company of North Carolina, Inc. owns all of the outstanding
    capital stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Rouse-Charlotte, Inc.
          Rouse-Durham, Inc.
          Rouse Office Management of North Carolina, Inc.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
20. The Rouse Company of Ohio, Inc. owns all of the outstanding common stock of
    each of the following corporations:

          Beachwood Place, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Cuyahoga Development Corporation, a Maryland corporation
          Franklin Park Mall, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Franklin Park Mall Management Corporation, a Maryland corporation
          Plaza Holding Corporation, an Ohio corporation

21. The Rouse Company of Oregon, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock
    of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Rouse Office Management of Oregon, Inc.
          Rouse-Portland, Inc.
          Rouse Salem Centre, Inc.
          Rouse Salem Centre Management Corporation

22. The Rouse Company of Pennsylvania, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of Whiteland I, Inc. and Whiteland II, Inc., both Maryland
    corporations.


23. The Rouse Company of Texas, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock
    of each of the following corporations:

          Almeda Mall, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          AM Management Corporation, a Texas corporation
          AU Management Corporation, a Texas corporation
          Austin Mall, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Collin Creek, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Collin Creek Mall Management Company, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          DK Management Corporation, a Texas corporation
          DK Shopping Center, Inc., a Texas corporation
          Greengate Mall, Inc., a Pennsylvania corporation
          NC Shopping Center, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          North Star Mall, Inc., a Texas corporation
          Northwest Mall, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          NS Management Corporation, a Texas corporation
          NW Management Corporation, a Texas corporation
          Rouse-Air Cargo, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Air Cargo (DFW), Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Almeda, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Carillon Management Company, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Carillon Shopping Center, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse Central Park Shopping Center, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse Fort Worth, Inc., a Maryland corporation

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
          Rouse Holding Company of Texas, Inc., a Texas corporation
          Rouse Management Services Corporation of Texas, Inc., a Maryland
            corporation
          Rouse-Northwest, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Southlake, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          Rouse-Tarrant, Inc., a Maryland corporation
          SDK Mall, Inc., a Texas corporation
          South DeKalb Mall, Inc., a Texas corporation

24. The Rouse Company of Virginia, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Rouse Airport Retail, Inc.
          Rouse-Military Circle, Inc.
          Rouse-Richmond, Inc.

   Rouse-Military Circle, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock of
   Rouse Hotel Management of Virginia, Inc., a Maryland corporation.

25. The Rouse Company of Washington, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of Rouse-Seattle, Inc., a Maryland corporation.

26. The Rouse Holding Company of Arizona, Inc. owns all of the outstanding
    capital stock of each of the following Maryland corporations:

          Rouse-Arizona Center, Inc.
          Rouse Office Management of Arizona, Inc.
          Rouse-Phoenix Development Corporation
          Rouse-Phoenix Parking, Inc.
          Rouse-Phoenix Parking Two, Inc.
          Rouse-Phoenix Two Corporate Center, Inc.

27. Rouse Investing Company owns all of the outstanding capital stock of each of
    the following corporations:

          Deerfield Homes, Inc., a Florida corporation
          306 Corporation, a Texas corporation
          Wilmington Homes, Inc., a North Carolina corporation

    Wilmington Homes, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock of Echo
    Farms Golf and Country Club, Inc., a North Carolina corporation.

28. Rouse Missouri Holding Company owns all of the outstanding capital stock of
    each of the following Maryland corporations:

          The Rouse Company of Missouri, Inc.
          Rouse Missouri Management Corporation
          St. Louis Union Station Beergarten, Inc.

                                      10
<PAGE>
 
    The Rouse Company of Missouri, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of The Rouse Company of St. Louis, Inc., a Maryland Corporation.

29. Rouse-Wates, Incorporated ("Rouse-Wates") and its consolidated subsidiaries
    are accounted for as a discontinued operation in the consolidated financial
    statements.  Rouse-Wates owns all of the outstanding capital stock of each
    of the following corporations:

          Norbury Construction Company, a Delaware corporation
          Owen Brown B Development Company, a Maryland corporation

30. RREF Holding, Inc. owns all of the outstanding capital stock of RII Holding,
    Inc., a Texas corporation.

31. TRCD, Inc. owns all of the outstanding common stock of the following
    Delaware corporations:

          Austin Mall Corporation
          Collin Creek Property, Inc.
          The Franklin Park Corporation
          Mall St. Matthews Corporation
          North Star Mall Corporation
          One Franklin Park Corporation
          One Gallery Corporation
          Rouse Funding Corporation
          Rouse Funding Two, Inc.
          Rouse-MTN, Inc.
          TRCDE, Inc.
          TRCDE Two, Inc.
          TRCDF, Inc.
          Two Franklin Park Corporation
          Two Gallery Corporation
          Willowbrook Mall, Inc.

    The Franklin Park Corporation owns 90 shares of the outstanding capital
    stock of Franklin Park Finance, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and Rodamco
    U.S.A., Inc. owns the remaining 910 shares. Franklin Park Finance, Inc. has
    3,000 shares of capital stock authorized, of which 1000 shares are issued
    and outstanding as described above.

    Willowbrook Mall, Inc. owns 90 shares of the outstanding capital stock of
    Willowbrook Finance Corporation, a Delaware corporation, and Rodamco U.S.A.,
    Inc. owns the remaining 910 shares.  Willowbrook Finance Corporation has
    3,000 shares of capital stock authorized, of which 1000 shares are issued
    and outstanding as described above.

32. TRC Holding Company of Washington, D.C. owns all of the outstanding capital
    stock of Rouse-National Press Management, Inc., a Maryland corporation

                                      11
    

<PAGE>
 
Exhibit 24.  Power of Attorney.


The Power of Attorney, dated February 25, 1997, is incorporated by reference
from the Exhibits to the Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 1996.
WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This financial data schedule is submitted in accordance with Regulation S-K item
601(c)(2). This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from
Form 10-K for the annual period ended December 31, 1997 and is qualified in its
entirety by reference to such financial statements.
</LEGEND>
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1997
<CASH>                                          87,100
<SECURITIES>                                     3,586
<RECEIVABLES>                                  135,611
<ALLOWANCES>                                    21,311
<INVENTORY>                                          0
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               225,631<F1>
<PP&E>                                       3,332,363
<DEPRECIATION>                                 515,229
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               3,589,768
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          370,469<F2>
<BONDS>                                      2,629,549
                                0
                                         41
<COMMON>                                           669
<OTHER-SE>                                     464,805
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                 3,589,768
<SALES>                                        930,094
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               930,094
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  618,249
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                24,763
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 5,766
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             207,490
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 73,826
<INCOME-TAX>                                  (116,066)
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                            189,892
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                (21,342)
<CHANGES>                                       (1,214)
<NET-INCOME>                                   167,336
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     2.36
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     2.29
<F1>Current assets include cash, unrestricted marketable securities, current
portion of accounts and notes receivable and prepaid expenses and deposits.
<F2>Current liabilities include the current portion of long-term debt and accounts
payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities.
</FN>
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This financial data schedule is submitted in accordance with Regulation S-K item
601(c)(2). This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from
Form 10-K for the annual period ended December 31, 1996 and is qualified in its
entirety by reference to such financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED>
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1996
<CASH>                                          43,766
<SECURITIES>                                     3,596
<RECEIVABLES>                                  120,522
<ALLOWANCES>                                   (28,153)
<INVENTORY>                                          0
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               132,816<F1>
<PP&E>                                       3,868,233
<DEPRECIATION>                                (552,201)
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               3,643,452
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          423,087<F2>
<BONDS>                                      2,835,246
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           667
<OTHER-SE>                                     176,482
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                 3,643,452
<SALES>                                        831,917
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               831,917
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  548,356
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                15,887
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 3,688
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             220,381
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 43,605
<INCOME-TAX>                                    25,719
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             17,886
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                  1,453
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    16,433
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .10
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .09
<FN>
<F1>Current assets include cash, unrestricted marketable securities, current
portion of accounts and notes receivable and prepaid expenses and deposits.
<F2>Current liabilities include the current portion of long-term debt and accounts
payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities.
</FN>
        

</TABLE>

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This financial data schedule is submitted in accordance with Regulation S-K item
601(c)(2). This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from
Form 10-K for the annual period ended December 31, 1995 and is qualified in its
entirety by reference to such financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<RESTATED>
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1995
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1995
<CASH>                                          94,922
<SECURITIES>                                     2,910
<RECEIVABLES>                                   61,219
<ALLOWANCES>                                   (24,468)
<INVENTORY>                                          0
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               143,114<F1>
<PP&E>                                       3,219,277
<DEPRECIATION>                                (519,319)
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                               2,985,609
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          302,638<F2>
<BONDS>                                      2,479,529
                                0
                                         45
<COMMON>                                           479
<OTHER-SE>                                      42,060
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                 2,985,609
<SALES>                                        672,821
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               672,821
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  420,622
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                25,749
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                 3,318
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             212,963
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 10,619
<INCOME-TAX>                                     4,319
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                              5,850
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                  8,631
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    (2,781)
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     (.37)
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     (.37)
<FN>
<F1>Current assets include cash, unrestricted marketable securities, current
portion of accounts and notes receivable and prepaid expenses and deposits.
<F2>Current liabilities include the current portion of long-term debt and accounts
payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities.
</FN>
        


</TABLE>

<PAGE>
 
Exhibit 99.     Additional Exhibits.


99.1                 Form 11-K Annual Report of The Rouse Company Savings Plan
                     for the year ended December 31, 1997.

99.2                 Factors affecting future operating results.
<PAGE>
 
Exhibit 99.1


                                 UNITED STATES
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549



                                   FORM 11-K


[X]  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
     1934 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 or

[ ]  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
     OF 1934 for the transition period from ______ to ______


                       Commission File Number   0-1743
                                              ----------

A.   Full title of the plan and address of the plan:

     The Rouse Company Savings Plan
     c/o Human Resources Division
     The Rouse Company Building
     10275 Little Patuxent Parkway
     Columbia, Maryland 21044

B.   Name of issuer of the securities held pursuant to the plan and the address
     of its principal executive offices:

     The Rouse Company
     The Rouse Company Building
     10275 Little Patuxent Parkway
     Columbia, Maryland 21044

<PAGE>
 
                             REQUIRED INFORMATION

Since The Rouse Company Savings Plan (the "Plan") is subject to the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the Plan financial statements for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 will be filed on or before June 30, 1998.



                                  SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
trustees (or other persons who administer the Plan) have duly caused this annual
report to be signed by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.



          THE ROUSE COMPANY SAVINGS PLAN
          ------------------------------


Date: March  27, 1998        By /s/ William D. Boden
      ---------------           --------------------        
                             William D. Boden, Administrator


                             and


Date: March  27, 1998        By /s/ George L. Yungmann
      ---------------           ----------------------      
                             George L. Yungmann, Trustee

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    Exhibit 99.2

                  FACTORS AFFECTING FUTURE OPERATING RESULTS

          This Form 10-K, the Company's Annual Report to Shareholders, any Form
10-Q or any Form 8-K of the Company or any other written or oral statements made
by or on behalf of the Company include forward-looking statements that reflect
the Company's current views with respect to future events and financial
performance.  These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and
uncertainties, including those discussed below that could cause actual results
to differ materially from historical results or anticipated results.  The words
"believe," "expect," "anticipate" and similar expressions identify forward-
looking statements.  Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these
forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates.  The Company
undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking
statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

          The following factors could cause actual results of The Rouse Company,
its subsidiaries and affiliates (collectively and individually, the "Company")
to differ materially from historical results or anticipated results:

          REIT RISKS.  Failure to Qualify as a REIT.  Although the Company
believes that it is organized and intends to operate in such a manner as to
qualify as a real estate investment trust ("REIT") under the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), no assurance can be given that the
Company will remain so qualified.  Qualification as a REIT involves the
application of highly technical and complex Code provisions for which there are
only limited judicial or administrative interpretations.  The complexity of
these provisions and applicable Treasury Regulations is also increased to the
extent a REIT holds some of its assets in partnership form.  The determination
of various factual matters and circumstances not entirely within the Company's
control may affect its ability to qualify as a REIT.  In addition, no assurance
can be given that legislation, new regulations, administrative interpretations
or court decisions will not significantly change the tax laws with respect to
qualification as a REIT or the Federal income tax consequences of such
qualification.  Currently, there are proposals before Congress to make
significant changes to the requirements for qualifying as a REIT and to the
operations REITs may conduct.

          If in any taxable year the Company fails to qualify as a REIT, the
Company would not be allowed a deduction for distributions to shareholders in
computing its taxable income and would be subject to Federal income tax
(including applicable alternative minimum tax) on its taxable income at regular
corporate rates.  As a result, the amount available for distribution to the
Company's shareholders would be reduced for the year or years involved.  In
addition, unless entitled to relief under certain statutory provisions, the
Company would be disqualified from treatment as a REIT for the four taxable
years following the year during which it lost its qualification.

          Notwithstanding that the Company currently operates in a manner
designed to qualify as a REIT, future economic, market, legal, tax or other
considerations may cause the Company to determine that it is in the best
interest of the Company and its shareholders to revoke its REIT election.  The
Company would then be disqualified from electing treatment as a REIT for the
four taxable years following the year of such revocation.

          Inability to Comply With REIT Distribution Requirements.  To obtain
the favorable tax treatment for REITs qualifying under the Code, the Company
generally will be required to distribute to its shareholders at least 95% of its
otherwise taxable income (after certain adjustments, including for the Company's
net operating loss carryover).  Such distributions must be paid either (i) in
the taxable year to which they relate or (ii) in the following taxable year if
declared before the Company timely files its tax return for such year and if
paid on or before the first regular distribution payment after such declaration.
<PAGE>
 
In addition, the Company will be subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax on the
amount, if any, by which certain distributions paid by it with respect to any
calendar year are less than the sum of 85% of its ordinary income for the
calendar year, 95% of its capital gains net income for the calendar year and any
undistributed taxable income from prior periods. Failure to comply with the 95%
distribution requirement would result in the Company failing to qualify as a
REIT and the Company's income being subject to tax at regular corporate rates.

          The Company intends to make distributions to its shareholders to
comply with the 95% tax distribution provision of the Code and to avoid the
nondeductible excise tax discussed above.

          Recently Proposed Tax Legislation.  The President's fiscal year 1999
budget contains a number of REIT-related provisions which, if enacted, would
change certain of the REIT qualification rules described above.  Specifically, a
REIT would be prohibited from owning more than 10% of the stock of any one
corporate issuer, determined either by vote or by value.  Currently, this 10%
test is applied only by reference to voting power.  The proposal would make this
change generally effective with respect to stock acquired on or after the date
of the first Congressional committee action on the proposal.  In addition, the
President proposes to expand upon the "five or fewer requirement" to prohibit
any person (including any type of entity) from owning more than 50% of the stock
of the REIT determined by vote or by value.  The current "closely-held"
restriction prohibits more than 50% of the REIT from being owned by five or
fewer individuals but does not apply to entities.  As proposed, this change
would be effective for entities electing REIT status for taxable years beginning
on or after the date of the first committee action on the proposal.  It is
anticipated that, because of the proposed effective date provisions, these new
rules, if enacted, would not apply to the Company.  However, there can be no
assurance that the proposals will be enacted in the form proposed or with the
proposed effective date and, therefore, any legislation, if enacted, may
adversely effect the status of the Company as a REIT.

          REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT RISKS.  General.  Real property
investments are subject to varying degrees of risk.  Revenues and property
values may be adversely affected by the general economic climate, the local
economic climate and local real estate conditions, including (i) the perceptions
of prospective tenants or purchasers as to the attractiveness of the property;
(ii) the ability to provide adequate management, maintenance and insurance;
(iii) the inability to collect rent due to bankruptcy or insolvency of tenants
or otherwise; and (iv) increased operating costs.  Real estate values may also
be adversely affected by such factors as applicable laws, including tax laws,
interest rate levels and the availability of financing.

          Development Risks.  New project development is subject to a number of
risks, including risks of availability of financing, construction delays or cost
overruns that may increase project costs, risks that the properties will not
achieve anticipated occupancy levels or sustain anticipated lease or sales
levels, and new project commencement risks such as receipt of zoning, occupancy
and other required governmental permits and authorizations and the incurrence of
development costs in connection with projects that are not pursued to
completion.

          Lack of Geographical Diversification.  A significant portion of the
properties held by the Company's subsidiaries and affiliates is geographically
concentrated.  Land sales, for instance, relate primarily to land in and around
Columbia, Maryland and Las Vegas, Nevada.  These sales are affected by the
economic climate in Howard County, Maryland, the Baltimore-Washington area and
the greater Las Vegas area, and by local real estate conditions and other
factors, including applicable zoning laws and the availability of financing for
residential development.  Similarly, most of the office/industrial buildings
that are owned or managed by the Company's subsidiaries and affiliates are
located in the Baltimore-Washington corridor, including Columbia, Maryland, and
the greater Las Vegas metropolitan area.  Due to the geographic concentration of
this portfolio, the operating results from managing these buildings and 

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
selling property for development depend especially on the local economic climate
and real estate conditions, including the availability of comparable, competing
buildings and properties.

          Illiquidity of Real Estate Investments.  Real estate investments are
relatively illiquid and therefore may tend to limit the ability of the Company
to react promptly in response to changes in economic or other conditions.

          Dependence on Rental Income from Real Property.  The Company's cash
flow and results of operations would be adversely affected if a significant
number of tenants were unable to meet their obligations or if the Company were
unable to lease a significant amount of space in its income-producing properties
on economically favorable lease terms.  In the event of a default by a tenant,
the Company may experience delays in enforcing its rights as lessor and may
incur substantial costs in protecting its investment.  The bankruptcy or
insolvency of a major tenant may have an adverse effect on an income-producing
property.

          Effect of Uninsured Loss.  The Company carries comprehensive
liability, fire, flood, extended coverage and rental loss insurance with respect
to its properties with insured limits and policy specifications that it believes
are customary for similar properties.  There are, however, certain types of
losses (generally of a catastrophic nature, such as wars, floods or earthquakes)
which may be either uninsurable, or, in the Company's judgment, not economically
insurable.  Should an uninsured loss occur, the Company could lose both its
invested capital in and anticipated profits from the affected property.

          ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS.  Under various federal, state and local
environmental laws, ordinances and regulations, a current or previous owner or
operator of real property may become liable for the costs of the investigation,
removal and remediation of hazardous or toxic substances on, under, in or
migrating from such property.  Such laws often impose liability without regard
to whether the owner or operator knew of, or was responsible for, the presence
of such hazardous or toxic substances.  The presence of hazardous or toxic
substances, or the failure to remediate properly such substances when present,
may adversely affect the owner's ability to sell or rent such real property or
to borrow using such real property as collateral.  Persons who arrange for the
disposal or treatment of hazardous or toxic wastes may also be liable for the
costs of the investigation, removal and remediation of such wastes at the
disposal or treatment facility, regardless of whether such facility is owned or
operated by such person.  Other federal, state and local laws, ordinances and
regulations require abatement or removal of certain asbestos-containing
materials in the event of demolition or certain renovations or remodeling,
impose certain worker protection and notification requirements and govern
emissions of and exposure to asbestos fibers in the air.

          Certain of the Company's properties contain underground storage tanks
which are subject to strict laws and regulations designed to prevent leakage or
other releases of hazardous substances into the environment.  In connection with
its ownership, operation and management of such properties, the Company could be
held liable for the environmental response costs associated with the release of
such regulated substances or related claims.  In addition to remediation actions
brought by federal, state and local agencies, the presence of hazardous
substances on a property could result in personal injury or similar claims by
private plaintiffs.  Such claims could result in costs or liabilities which
could exceed the value of such property.  The Company is not aware of any
notification by any private party or governmental authority of any non-
compliance, liability or other claim in connection with environmental conditions
at any of its properties that it believes will involve any expenditure which
would be material to the Company, nor is the Company aware of any environmental
condition with respect to any of its properties that it believes will involve
any such material expenditure.  However, there can be no assurance that any such
non-compliance, liability, claim or expenditure will not arise in the future.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
          AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE.  Under the Americans with
Disabilities Act (the "ADA"), all public accommodations and commercial
facilities are required to meet certain federal requirements related to access
and use by disabled persons.  These requirements became effective in 1992.  The
Company has surveyed each of its properties and believes that it is in
substantial compliance with the ADA and that it will not be required to make
substantial capital expenditures to address the requirements of the ADA.  In
addition, the Company has developed an ADA Compliance Plan and has budgeted for
and moved forward with the removal of those barriers to access that are readily
achievable.  The Company believes that implementation of its ADA Compliance Plan
will not have a material adverse effect on its financial condition.

          COMPETITION.  There are numerous other developers, managers and owners
of real estate that compete with the Company in seeking management and leasing
revenues, land for development, properties for acquisition and disposition and
tenants for properties, and there can be no assurance that the Company will
successfully respond to or manage competitive conditions.

          CHANGES IN ECONOMIC CONDITIONS.  The Company's business and operating
results can be adversely affected by changes in the economic environment
generally.  For example, an increase in interest rates will affect the interest
payable on the Company's outstanding floating rate debt and may result in
increased interest expense if debt is refinanced at higher interest rates.
Moreover, in a recessionary economy, credit conditions may be inflexible and
consumer spending conservative, which could adversely affect the Company's
revenues from its retail centers.

          INTEREST RATE EXCHANGE AGREEMENTS.  The Company makes limited use of
interest rate exchange agreements, including interest rate caps and swaps,
primarily to manage interest rate risk associated with variable rate debt.
Under interest rate cap agreements, the Company makes initial premium payments
to the counterparties in exchange for the right to receive payments from them if
interest rates on the related variable rate debt exceed specified levels during
the agreement period.  Premiums paid are amortized to interest expense over the
terms of the agreements using the interest method, and payments receivable from
the counterparties are accrued as reductions of interest expense.  Under
interest rate swap agreements, the Company and the counterparties agree to
exchange the difference between fixed rate and variable rate interest amounts
calculated by reference to specified notional principal amounts during the
agreement period.  Notional principal amounts are used to express the volume of
these transactions, but the cash requirements and amounts subject to credit risk
are substantially less. Amounts receivable or payable under swap agreements are
accounted for as adjustments to interest expense on the related debt.

          Parties to interest rate exchange agreements are subject to market
risk for changes in interest rates and risk of credit loss in the event of
nonperformance by the counterparties.  Although the Company deals only with
highly rated financial institution counterparties (which, in certain cases, are
also the lenders on the related debt) and does not expect that any
counterparties will fail to meet their obligations, there can be no assurance
that this will not occur.

          RISKS RELATING TO NEVADA PROPERTIES.  General.  Affiliates of the
Company own approximately 3.5  million rentable square feet of office and
industrial space primarily around Las Vegas, Nevada, a 75% partnership interest
in Fashion Show Mall, an 840,000 square foot regional shopping center located on
the "Strip" in Las Vegas,  two Tournament Players Club golf clubs in Summerlin
and approximately 16,500 acres (11,500 saleable acres) of development and
investment land located in Summerlin, Nevada. These properties could be
adversely affected by the following risks.

          Water Availability in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Area.  The Las Vegas
metropolitan area is a desert environment where the ability to develop real
estate is largely dependent on the continued availability of water.  

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
The Las Vegas metropolitan area has a limited supply of water to service future
development, and it is uncertain whether the metropolitan area will be
successful in obtaining new sources of water. If the Las Vegas metropolitan area
does not obtain new sources of water, development activities could be materially
hindered.

          Air Quality.  The Las Vegas Valley is classified as a moderate carbon
monoxide and a serious PM-10 nonattainment area by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency ("EPA").  The EPA is currently assessing whether the Las Vegas
Valley meets certain regulatory requirements with respect to levels of ozone.
Efforts are underway to develop air quality plans to achieve and maintain
applicable EPA standards.  However, there are also ongoing efforts to relax
certain requirements under the Clean Air Act and to modify the EPA's authority
thereunder.  The outcome of these efforts may significantly affect real estate
development activities in the Las Vegas Valley.

          Availability of Infrastructure.  As with many rapidly growing
communities, the rate of growth in the Las Vegas metropolitan area is straining
the capacity of the community's infrastructure, particularly with respect to
schools, water delivery systems, transportation, flood control and sewage
treatment.  Certain responsible federal, state and local government agencies
finance the construction of infrastructure improvements through a variety of
means, including general obligation bond issues, some of which are subject to
voter approval.  The failure of these agencies to obtain financing for or to
complete such infrastructure improvements could materially delay development in
the area or materially increase development costs through the imposition of
impact fees and other fees and taxes, or require the construction or funding of
portions of such infrastructure.  The availability of infrastructure or water
has not had a negative impact on the development or investment activities of the
Company's affiliates to date.

          Non-Nevada Gaming.  Until this decade, the gaming industry was
principally limited to the traditional markets of Nevada and New Jersey.
Several states, however, have legalized casino gaming and other forms of
gambling in recent years.  In addition, several states have negotiated compacts
with Indian tribes pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 that
permit certain forms of gaming on Indian lands.  These additional gaming venues
create alternative destinations for gamblers and tourists who might otherwise
have visited Las Vegas.  It is not possible to determine whether current or
future legalized gaming venues will have an adverse impact on the Las Vegas
economy and thereby adversely affect the properties held by Company affiliates
in the Las Vegas area.

                                       5


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